FALL 2007 by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Terry Abbott

Leslie Coulson

Barbara Baker/ Bob Main

Diane Damian & Helane Tobin

Lynn Banbury

Jodi Bilski

Bonnie Christmas

Lora Le Clark

Frank Conroy

Bob Dini

Alexis Fitch

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re #1 To Us!

Real Estate Specialists Who Make a Real Difference! Megan Gustine Foster Karen Frank

George Herrington

Pat Hogan

Florine Kelly

Barbara Kurdys-Miller

Bryan Russo

Prudential Preferred Realty Route 19 South Office

Elva Marotta

Michelle Schocker/ Ruth Weigers

Shirley McGinnis

Judy Ward

Cindy Palmer

Mary Ann Zupon

Wayne Freund

Debbie Graulty

Liz Hoyson

Sally Kauper

Betsy Raber

Jane Compagnone Manager

(412) 833-7700 â&#x20AC;˘ www.PrudentialPreferredRealty.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Diane Paul

Assistant Manager

Preferred Realty

1679 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Independently Owned and Operated

Jo Ann Robb

d[ EîihWjg\] HaZZe jcYZg i]Z hiVgh ZkZgn c^\]i [dg i]Z gZhi d[ ndjg a^[Z HiVghXVeZh ^h V i]gZZ Y^bZch^dcVa! [jaan VXXjgViZ XZâ^c\ bjgVa d[ i]Z c^\]i h`n# >i lâa cdi ^ciZg[ZgZ lî] Vcn YZXdgVi^c\ hX]ZbZ ^c ndjg gddb# 6i c^\]i! l]Zc i]Z a^\]ih VgZ d[[! l]Vi ndj hZZ VWdkZ ndj ^h V XgnhiVa XaZVg c^\]i h`n ]^\] Vide V bdjciV^c# I]djhVcYh d[ hiVgh VgZ k^h^WaZ HiVghXVeZh ^h gZaVm^c\! gdbVci^X VcY higZhh gZa^Zk^c\ [dg VYjaih! ZYjXVi^dcVa VcY \gZVi [jc [dg `^Yh# 7Zhi d[ Vaa! îÉh kZgn V[[dgYVWaZ# K^hî jh dca^cZ idYVn Vi lll#hiVghXVeZh[m#Xdb$eîihWjg\] dg XVaa [dg V [gZZ! cd dWa^\Vi^dc! ^c"]dbZ YZbdchigVi^dc idYVn

H]Vg^ Cdgidc! H#6#># )&'")%%"-.%(

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

PRO1000?? Dress USC

6/20/07

10:33 AM

Page 1

Welcome to Providence Point –

Proper Dress Required.

Hats off to all those who have chosen to make Providence Point their new home. And hard hats on to everyone else, because construction is under way! Providence Point, Pittsburgh’s newest LifeCare community, offers exceptional floor plans, impressive amenities and services, unlimited opportunities for leisure and learning, and the camaraderie of new, good friends.

Very special offer: We’ll pay for your moving expenses if you’re one of the first 10 people to make a 10% reservation!* Don’t wait! 150 residences are already under deposit! Now’s the time to arrange your personal meeting and reserve the apartment or patio home of your choice. To learn more, call us at 412-276-4500 or toll-free at 866-608-3900. * Contact us for details Sponsored by the Baptist Homes Society

PITTSBURGH’S FIRST CHOICE IN RETIREMENT LIVING

1145 bower hill road, suite 101, pittsburgh, pa 15243

www.providencepoint.org

Yes, tell me more about Providence Point, the new community sponsored by the Baptist Homes Society on Kane Blvd. [ ] Please keep me informed of Providence Point news and upcoming events. [ ] Please send me a free DVD presentation about Providence Point.

name address city

state

zip

phone

e-mail Fill out and mail to: Providence Point, 1145 Bower Hill Road, Suite 101, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

USCToday7/07

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

PITTSBURGH’S FIRST CHOICE IN RETIREMENT LIVING

Fall 00 • Volume • Issue

Features and Around the Township 9

A Wedding in the Park Boyce Mayview Park hosts its first wedding.

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair The foundation announces the PSO Chamber Orchestra’s three-concert series at USCHS.

Where Hope Abounds What is hospice care and who would benefit from it?

The Lady and the Elephant

USCVFD’s Monte Carlo Night—Were You a Winner?

First Year Teacher Survival

Town Hall South Introduces Its 2007-08 Lineup World-renowned speakers draw audiences to Town Hall South’s philanthropic cause.

Township 9

Township Bulletin Board Find out what’s going on in the Township.

Community Day 2007 Wrap Up Results, faces, and activities—did we capture your memory of Community Day?

Fall Children’s Programs at the Library USC Township Library has got it goin’ on.

Recycle—Please Do! Read the rules for curbside recycling and the 24/7 drop off recycle bin, then recycle, recycle, recycle!

Citizens’ Police Academy The USC Police Department offers its academy to citizens to promote an awareness of safety and an orientation of what the department does.

Fit to Fight Members of Upper St. Clair’s Volunteer Fire Department have personal fitness goals, helping them to better perform in emergency situations.

School District 9

2007 Technology in Review Read about the District’s advances in technology over this past year.

USCHS Graduation 2007 Commencement speeches inspire our graduates.

Did You Know? Academics, arts, athletics—what made our headlines?

Crew—the Ultimate Team Sport USCHS Crew offers a healthy team sport in and out of the water.

School District Notices Read required notices from our District, including information about PSSA testing dates.

Guides

Pinebridge Commons Health & Wellness

Educational Resource Dining

Cover 8

The cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is provided courtesy of the magazine’s publishers and staff. Read page 8, the Publishers’ Letter, for information regarding the cooperative efforts between the Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District, as well as a description of the cover creation. Fall 2007 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 5

Publishers Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield Senior Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox School District Representative

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township

and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. The 51st issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

Editors 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 Julie Sweet, Advertising Associate

School Board Directors

Township Board of Commissioners

Mark G. Trombetta, President David E. Bluey, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Carol B. Coliane Glenn G. Groninger Daniel A. Iracki Jeffrey W. Joyce Angela B. Petersen William M. Sulkowski

Ched Mertz, President, Ward 4 Bill Bates, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Kenneth L. Brown, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Frank E. Marsh, Ward 5 Karen M. McElhinny, At Large

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

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Ray Berrott, Van Brenlove, Susanne Chabara, Kim Epp Frenette, Dina Fulmer, Pam Griffith and Bill Griffith, Jr., Wayne Herrod, Walter Jarosh, Liyun Jin (YWG), U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy, Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Stacy Romanias, Mike Russell, Rob Sully, and Dr. Mark Trombetta. 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.

Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses

in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Winter 2007 issue and will be published in November 2007. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

The 51st issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2007. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited.

Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed to the left. Add $10 to cover international mailings.

Deadline for articles and advertising for the Winter 2007 issue is September 6, 2007.

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

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

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

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

Visit Our Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Email Us: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

A light-hearted & playful

59th Season!

CHARLEY’S AUNT by Brandon Thomas . . 7/26-8/11 A delightful, family-friendly farce!

APARTMENT 3A by Jeff Daniels . . . . . . . . . 8/16-9/1 A romantic comedy for grown-ups. Language advisory.

LITTLE LAKE

ANCESTRAL VOICES by A.R. Gurney. . . . 9/6-9/22 A genteel and gently comic family history.

Theatre Company

ALMOST, MAINE by John Cariani . . . . . 9/27-10/13 “Aims for the heart by way of the funny bone.”

AS YOU LIKE IT by William Shakespeare 10/18-11/3

For Young Audiences

Romance and comedy in this favorite by the Bard.

The Twits 8/8-8/25 Sarah, Plain and Tall 10/7-28 Madeline’s Christmas 11/18-12/16

ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT by Jeff Daniels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11/8-11/24

BOX OFFICE: 724-745-6300

A TUNA CHRISTMAS by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11/29-12/15

A hilarious tall tale—a boisterous comedy.

www.littlelake.org

A riotous belly-laugher…always a sell-out!

I AM A MOTHER, WIFE,

CAREER WOMAN AND A DAUGHTER CARING FOR MY AGING MOTHER

Balancing life’s roles can be both a joy and a challenge. But “doing it all” isn’t always the best answer. Sunrise Senior Living understands. For 25 years, we have been committed to helping families make senior living decisions that satisfy both their hearts and their heads. We appreciate the importance of living the life you want to live and we are passionate about championing quality of life for seniors. That’s why we offer a variety of lifestyle, service, and care options — so, together, you can choose the one that’s just right. Take the first step in learning how to balance your newest role in life by visiting a Sunrise community near you today.

Call or stop by today for a personal tour.

Pittsburgh Sunrise at South Hills Upper St. Clair Sunrise of Upper St. Clair

412-571-1300 412-831-2200

1320 Greentree Road AL, ALZ 500 Village Drive AL, ALZ

AL=Assisted Living ALZ=Alzheimer’s Care

For more information and a FREE online newsletter, visit www.sunriseseniorliving.com

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole

Douglas A. Watkins

Welcome to the 51st edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our fall issue. The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District together provide many services to the citizens of Upper St. Clair. In addition to the 13-year collaborative effort to publish this community magazine, the cooperative working relationship between the two governmental bodies allows residents to realize many benefits. The Township’s department offices and the School District’s central office administration share the brick and mortar along McLaughlin Run Road. Our senior citizens receive free or reduced priced services for sports, plays, and musical productions offered through the Township and the School District. Our school children take advantage of field trips to our Township’s parks (including the Regional Environmental Education Center), trails, the wetlands, and the library, enhancing their knowledge outside of the classroom. Our police department is present for many of our schools’ largely attended events to help with traffic assistance and crowd control. Our School District and Township share fields and gym space for the numerous recreational and leisure services offered year-round to all residents. Members of each governmental body serve on the Drug and Alcohol community forums and initiatives and the Youth Steering Committee, and jointly support a number of charitable ventures, like the USC Veterans Memorial project. The Township and School District are supporters of the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association, an organization established to oversee our community’s youth athletic programs, and the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, a 14-year-old philanthropic organization that “creates a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” And, of course, the joint effort of the Township and School District make May’s Community Day event a welcomed annual tradition for all residents of Upper St. Clair. We believe that two of our community’s greatest gifts are the people who work here and the people who live here. No wonder that the Township and School District together provide its citizens with services that are second to none. Those employed in our Township responsibly meet and exceed their civic duty, while the citizens of Upper St. Clair, who expect quality, are not afraid to jump in and lend a hand when they see a need or opportunity arise. As Township Manager and as School District Superintendent, we live this cooperative working relationship daily, and we are grateful to be a part of it. Thanks for taking the time to read our community publication and also for taking an interest in our Township in the many ways that you do. We welcome your thoughts and ideas and invite you to share them with us. Have a wonderful start to the school year and fall season! Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools

The fall 2007 cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY exhibits computer-enhanced faux pointillism of a fall photograph taken in Upper St. Clair. Pointillism, the Neo-Impressionist technical art style developed in the late 19th century by French painter Georges Seurat, is based on emotion and how the mind reflects lines and the combination of colors. The idea of artistic expression using small dots enhances brain sensory because the eye becomes increasingly focused when it sees many small objects placed together. These dots of color require one to further concentrate on the artwork, causing a heightened visual experience. Using the cover’s faux pointillism creation, can you tell where in Upper St. Clair this photo was taken? Enter our Where Was This Cover Shot Taken? contest by sending your answer and contact information to our email address at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. The first correct response received will win a local dining certificate and a pair of tickets to the high school’s 2008 spring musical. Results will be published in a future issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY.

Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall Fall 2007

T O D A Y CELEBRATING 13 YEARS OF PUBLICATION

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

A Wedding in the Park Terry Kish

ad n along Mayview Ro Balloons on the sig the wedding. to lead guests

There is no doubt that Boyce Mayview

Park has a lot to offer, from Boyce gardens, to the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC), to the miles of trails available for exploring the beauty of nature. Another amenity of the park is a pavilion located between the REEC and the future athletic fields. While most people would plan for picnics and reunions under this sheltered space, Brooke White and Tony Colavecchia pictured something different, envisioning it as the site of their May 5th wedding. Brooke and Tony met at South Fayette’s Fairview Park and during their courtship and engagement spent a lot of time hiking the trails of Boyce Mayview Park. So, when it was time to plan their wedding, they wanted to hold the ceremony outdoors. Concerned about Pennsylvania’s unpredictable weather in early May, they were looking for someplace that offered shelter in case of rain, and the Boyce Mayview pavilion fit the bill perfectly. The personnel at the Township Recreation Department were contacted to see if the pavilion could be rented for a wedding and to secure the necessary permits. More than helpful, the staff was extremely excited to be part of the very first wedding in the park.

While the skies held a threat of rain that morning, by afternoon the clouds started to clear. With rented chairs, flowers, and yards of tulle, friends and relatives descended on the pavilion to transform it into an outdoor chapel. The sun peeked out as the first of over 100 guests arrived for the wedding. Shortly before five o’clock, a limousine pulled into the park with members of the bridal party. With an acoustic guitar and birds providing the music, Brooke walked down the aisle on the arm of her father. In addition to the invited guests, several neighbors, curious about what was happening at the pavilion, watched quietly as Pastor Joe DiDonato united Brooke and Tony in marriage. Following the ceremony a neighbor was heard to comment, “We’ve never had a wedding here before!” As pictures were being taken after the wedding, one of the children in the neighborhood went to get his guinea pig to show the flower girls. “I loved it,” commented Brooke after the wedding. “I thought everything was wonderful.” n

Newlyweds Mr. an

d Mrs. Tony Colav

ecchia.

edding and th watched the w ower girls. n re ild ch od ighborho ow the ﬂ Some of the ne with their guinea pig to sh returned

There was lots of room for guests to mingle after the ceremony.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

From Here

William Wants a Ball

Erin Gibson Allen More than once

I have heard a friend comment as her young daughter pushed a toy stroller or her little boy’s eyes widened at the sight of a toy pirate ship, “You know, there are differences, there just are.” Despite growing up humming along to “Free to be You and Me” and being comfortable with the idea that William might want a doll, my mom friends seem to agree that 999 times out of 1000, young William will choose the ball. The one time he does pick up the doll, he’s likely moving it out of the way so he can reach his baseball glove. After a conversation along these lines, a local mom friend suggested that I, as a mother of two boys, write about what boys are really like. Understanding boys is complex, and let me preface anything that I say on the topic by conceding that I have largely no idea how they work. I agree with my friends, however, who think that understanding boys is not as simple as being open to the idea that William should be free to choose a girl toy to play with. Do I therefore believe the opposite? Do I believe that boys are inherently drawn to all things masculine? Early evidence seems to support this idea. My boys were born wired in such a way that from a young age they were drawn to traditional boy activities. Within a few short years of birth, they were attracted to yellow toy construction trucks and were fascinated at how they could be used to change the landscape of the backyard. From early on they got on their hands and knees and pushed Matchbox cars around the house for entire afternoons. I don’t recall ever encouraging an interest in dirt, rocks, or wheels. I agree with my friends who comment that there are inexplicable inborn differences between the sexes that often predispose many boys to bats, balls, and backhoes. A summer blockbuster book, The Dangerous Book for Boys, by brothers Conn and Hal Iggulden, perpetuates the idea that boys thrive playing in the dirt. 10

With predicted sales of as many as four million copies in the United States, the book purports to serve as an instruction guide for boys and is full of information on how to do the things that boys should love to do, like skipping stones, tying knots, and even how to hunt and cook a rabbit. Far from suggesting that boys may want to play with a doll, the authors advocate that boys flourish by engaging in activities that entail some dirt and a little danger. The book, however, has drawn criticism for being written from its “boys only” approach. Critics argue that, on the whole, girls would enjoy many of the activities, too. It’s hard to disavow the idea that girls can thrive playing sports and engaging in other “boy” activities, but let me add another criticism of this bestseller: not only should girls be included in activities like climbing trees and digging for fossils, but boys should be considered for inclusion in many activities traditionally set aside for girls. Having only boys to raise, I have tested this concept by exposing my boys to “girl” activities that I might not have otherwise. While boys with sisters may get a break from their loving mothers, boys like mine with no sisters are defenseless against the unfiltered rays of feminine parenting. When a mother like me wants to relive a favorite childhood activity with her kids, her boys had better get ready for the ride. Take, for example, two summers ago when the Little Lake Theater was showing Cinderella. Having grown up attending plays at the theater, I wanted to revisit the barn by the lake and see a show. Despite a few groans, I instructed my boys to put away their plastic dinosaur collection and put on their sweater vests and comb their hair. Ticket stubs in hand, we walked around the stage and found our seats. After a few grumbles about a lot of “girliness,” my boys settled down. The play began. As I glanced over at my boys’ faces halfway through the production, I saw furrowed brows and brown eyes looking up with a serious expression of concern, wondering, no doubt, how a stepmother and her daughters could be so cruel to someone so

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

kind. They were engrossed in the play, and had forgotten how their youthful masculinity was temporarily at risk by seeing a play starring a young woman who overcomes living in a dysfunctional family and ultimately becomes a respected princess in the kingdom. I have done other things with my boys that make my husband clear his throat and raise an eyebrow. My boys owned a toy stroller when they were very little. They know how to hook a rug and even stitch (their projects depicted insects, puppies, and fire trucks—very tough). They own aprons (covered with bugs and frogs—again, very tough) and have learned the basics of making soups and cookies (not so tough, but helpful). These activities, I think, have been classified as “fairly fun” on my boys’ list of things to do when they’re not otherwise dominating at hardhitting air hockey. Despite being a mother in a testosterone heavy household, I still can’t claim to entirely understand boys. I do think, though, that boys’ capabilities and interests are immeasurable and shouldn’t be constrained by simple theories put forth in catchy songs or nostalgic how-to books. I try to resist the temptation to describe or define boys as if what they have in common with each other overrides what they’re like individually. William may want a doll, or he may have zero interest in one and may prefer to build a go-cart or fold the perfect paper airplane. None of the best activities of childhood are mutually exclusive to each other, or to kids of either sex. This past summer Little Lake offered a rendition of Sleeping Beauty. I asked my boys if they wanted to see the play. My youngest son quickly responded with something along the lines of, “Eww, gross!” I called his bluff, and told him that he didn’t have to go. “No,” he quickly responded. “I’ll go.” n I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas about my column with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at eallen@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Let me know if, like me, you’re from here.

U. S. House of Representatives Timothy F. Murphy

U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 322 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-2301 Fax: 202-225-1844

504 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Phone: 412-344-5583 Fax: 412-429-5092

Website: http://murphy.house.gov/ E-mail: murphy@mail.house.gov

Removing Barriers So Parents Can Help Their Children Sending a student off to college

can be an exciting time for both parents and their child. And although the child may be over the age of 18, parents still play a major role in their development and education. However, many families may not realize that there are legal barriers preventing parents from being informed by a college if a student is in need of help. I am working in Congress now to change this. Parents need to know if their child is in trouble before it is too late. They can help in ways nobody else can. The tragic shootings at Virginia Tech illustrate the worst that can happen when mental illness goes untreated on college campuses. A question that will linger forever is could lives have been saved if the parents had been notified the shooter was a danger to himself and others. There are many students in college who may need help but are not receiving it. Each day an average of three college students commit suicide. According to a survey by the American College Health Association, 11% of men and nine percent of women consider suicide while in college. They may not all act on their thoughts, but they still need help. Far too often we wait until after tragedy strikes to see what could have been done to prevent it. The main reason for inaction by college officials on campuses is the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) from 1974. The main goal of the legislation was to ensure that a student’s records would not be shared without permission. This is interpreted by many schools to mean parents cannot be informed when a student may have or cause problems, or is in danger. Different schools interpret the law in different ways, but all generally agree the current law creates a barrier in the student’s life if help is needed.

The unintended consequences of the current law led to tragedy for one local family. After they sent their son off to college, he began suffering from depression. While school administrators, their son’s fraternity brothers, and several others all knew he was suffering, nobody told the parents. Before he was able to get help, the boy took his own life. Had his parents known of his depression and been able to offer help and support, he might still be alive today. To make sure more families never have to endure this pain, I have recently introduced legislation, the Mental Health Security for America’s Families in Education (MH-SAFE) Act (H.R. 2220), which removes the barrier that has been preventing schools from communicating with parents to ensure children get the help they need. Under this legislation, schools will be allowed to notify parents on a case-bycase basis if a student is at risk of suicide, homicide, or physical assault. Before doing so the school must consult with a mental health professional. All student records will remain confidential. Once these conditions are met, the school will be protected from liability. Parents may be in the best position to help a student suffering from significant mental illness by providing emotional support and medical history, coordinating care with various mental health and medical professionals, and seeking long-term follow-up. Parents will be there for the child long after the school is gone. Schools will be able to act in the best interests of the child without fear of ending up in a courtroom. And more importantly, this legislation gives parents the information necessary to help their children before tragedy strikes. n Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Lady and the Elephant Wayne Herrod

Lisa Caruso is young woman with a

required filling in for various vacancies. One of them was working with the elephants. “I fell in love with the elephants,” said Lisa. When an elephant handler position became open, Lisa pursued it and landed the job. “When Lisa applied for the job,” Theison commented, “ I’d already watched her work with the herd and I A wedding day photo—Lisa and Mark Carus o, with Jack knew she could handle it. But I suggested that she talk with her family to make sure it was the right decision for women to work with a bull. He is handled her. I wanted her to be an elephant handler in a protected mode at all times because and not view it as just a job—it’s a whole bulls are known to be much more conlot more than that. It can be dangerous to frontational and dangerous. Jack considers work with these large mammals.” Lisa is the men handlers to be a threat, as he sees among a growing number of women who them with the female members of the herd. are working with elephants, and at the When a man works with a bull, he is called a bullman. I guess this makes Lisa a bullPittsburgh Zoo it’s been a great fit. “Years ago, women were not considered woman… and she does a great job at it! In many respects, being an elephant hanfor handler positions. Recently, zoos are realizing that women can handle this job dler is not glamorous. The elephants must and I’ve seen a large increase in the number be washed daily and their living quarters of female handlers. Many zoos are using cleaned. The outside exhibit is continually protected handling (where the elephants raked of uneaten hay and waste—a very big are separated from the handlers by bars). job at most times! The elephants must be However, Pittsburgh’s situation is differ- observed closely for signs of illness or injury. ent. Here we work among the herd in free Their feet are constantly checked and their contact (except for the bull). Therefore, tusks trimmed for safety. The Pittsburgh Zoo’s herd includes Lisa’s situation is a little different.” Lisa is assigned as Jack’s (the breeding Jackson (Jack), an 11,000-pound, ten-andbull at the zoo) primary handler. With one-half foot tall bull, and Tash, Savannah this assignment, she became one of few (Nan), and Moja, the three female members. They each weigh in at around eight thousand pounds and stand approximately nine feet tall. Rounding out the herd is baby Victoria (almost eight years old) and Callee (almost seven). The babies are each over six feet tall and weigh over three thousand pounds. Nan (Callee’s mom) and Moja (Victoria’s mom) are both pregnant and expecting in June 2008. Jack is the father of the two young elephants and also of the two expected ones. Over the last ten years, Jack has been the only bull who has fathered elephant babies naturally. There are only 20 breeding bulls listed in the SSP (Species Survival Plan)—think of it as a computerized dating plan for animals. The plan matches animals to guarantee varied bloodlines, helping to eliminate Brian, Joe, Lisa, Willie, and Jack inbreeding.

million-dollar smile and an engaging personality. Lisa Caruso is also a young lady with a rather interesting job. Lisa is one of the elephant handlers at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and has the good fortune of learning from one of the leading elephant handlers in the world, Willie Theison. “When I decided to apply for the elephant handler job, one of the reasons was Willie,” said Lisa. “He is one of the top, if not the top handler in the world. In addition, I enjoyed working with the elephants on a temporary assignment, and I wanted to work with them full-time. Moreover, I wanted to learn from Willie. There is no one who has more knowledge about elephants than Willie. I want to be the best, so working with the best is the way to go.” Lisa is a graduate of Penn State, Behrand with a degree in biology. She played soccer and softball while in college and also attended Mercyhurst for a year of postgraduate studies in education. However, her love of animals kept calling, and the teaching career was shelved. Lisa began her work at the Miami Metro Zoo, tending to the hoofstock—zebras, pygmy hippos, black rhinos, and okapi. She worked there for two years but missed home. She came back to Pittsburgh and got a job in the education department at the Pittsburgh Zoo, which eventually led to a position in special projects. This job

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

“I love working with Jack,” said Lisa. “He is extremely intelligent. He constantly challenges me, but I love the challenge. He can do his training every day for a straight week, but then on the eighth day, he might decide to be a little stubborn. I can usually tell that it’s going to be a tougher day by his mood and posturing. I step back and rethink how I am going to work it out another way. Overall, Jack is a good bull and we have a good relationship. He’s a real ladies man; maybe that’s why we get along so well. I have no fear of working with the elephants; I respect them, as well as their size and power. I have to work very carefully with Jack, and I am always aware of my distances and location. I really have

Lisa, checking Jack’s feet

to watch his mood; a bull’s mentality is based on confrontation, not compassion. By working so closely with him, I feel that I can read him. I bathe Jack every day (by hose) and check his feet. He will kneel for this part of his training. This is important, as an injury to the hoof could be fatal to an elephant because of its size. I train Jack, and he is rewarded for positive behavior. Jack is never punished for unwanted behavior, he is just given a several minute ‘time-out’ and we take away his treats. Bulls think a lot with their stomachs and no more than two time-outs are ever needed before Jack complies with the trained behavior.”

Having fun in the water

Willie, the lead elephant handler, lets the elephants live their lives like elephants. That may sound silly, but it’s really quite important. Willie explained his theory and remarked, “Years ago, fear, pain, and intimidation were the main methods of handling elephants. If you observe a herd in real life or in documentaries, you will see that the herd is a family grouping and respect is part of their way of life. I treat them this way, and I believe how I handle the animals is important. I try to let them be elephants as often as I can.” Lisa is married to Mark Caruso, a teacher in the Freeport School District. Their son, Mark Jr., is one year old. “Mark is supportive of my job and is very proud of me,” said Lisa. “Every time we meet new people he tells them what I do. Mark’s attitude makes it easier to keep a job that I love. I don’t find this job at all stressful, and I love knowing that when I get up in the morning I’m heading to work with the elephants. In addition, working with the herd through the mothers’ pregnancies (which lasts 22 months, by the way), from breeding to birth, is great. We are all so excited for the births!” One thing is for sure… the elephant herd at the Pittsburgh Zoo is in great hands. Willie, Lisa, Joe Galvanek, and Brian McCampbell make up the crew of elephant handlers. They are all knowledgeable and experienced, as well as personable and interesting. The guys and Lisa will always take a minute to share their knowledge and answer public questions about the herd. Next time you are at the zoo, make sure to visit the elephants and handlers, and say hello to Willie, Joe, and Brian. And please also say hello to Lisa and ask her, “Hey, aren’t you the bullwoman?” I can guarantee that you will see her million-dollar smile. n Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

P INEBRIDGE Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road Come by and see what’s new ••••••••••••••••• Carlson Wagonlit Travel Pediatric Dentistry South Cathy Davin Interior Design Piccolina’s Restaurant Design Image Salon Primary Physicians Research Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc. Questa Petroleum Co. Peter Gialames & Associates Eric J. Reitz DMD & Henderson Investment Corp. Gary J. Yanniello, DMD Jimcor Associates, Inc. South Hills Financial Group Timothy Kerr, DMD & State Farm Insurance Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Suburban Dry Cleaners Larry E. Manalo, DMD Weidmann Technical Services Pediatric Alliance Wininsky Law Offices Pinebridge Commons Associates

•••••••••••••••••

for leasing information, please call Pinebridge Commons Associates (412) 220-9288

14 ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007 14 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Northern Italian Restaurant “ Come visit with the little one”

Private Party and Banquet Room Now holding wine dinners & specialty evenings Al Fresco Dining Expanded Dining Room Reservations suggested SGift 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

COMMONS LARRY E. MANALO, D.M.D. General Dentist & Prostodontic Specialist

Quality Gentle Dentistry for the entire family! Brighten your smile with ZOOM! chairside whitening system!

$100

Helping you improve the quality of your life by creating the home you are envisioning. Enjoy a high-quality, professional experience.

"New research indicates that healthy teeth and gums may improve overall health. By receiving REGULAR DENTAL CLEANINGS,

diabetes, low birth weight babies, & heart disease may be prevented!"

PINEBRIDGE DENTAL

Let us help and serve you!

1580 MCLAUGHLIN RUN ROAD UPPER ST. CLAIR, PA 15241

Pinebridge Commons 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15241 cathy@davininteriors.com

J A M A I C A

•

412-221-2221

412.221.5770 www.davininteriors.com

A N T I G U A

•

S T.

L U C I A

•

412•221•2216

Inclusive Resorts, Sandals includes more of what lovers want, including

luxurious suites with exclusive Butler Service; unlimited land and watersports such as scuba,

50%

Carlson Wagonlit Travel 1580 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-6772 cwtusc@aol.com

waterskiing, N and golf*; up to 12 gourmet restaurants per resort, unlimited premium drinks; and the option of Red Lane® SpaU So bring

your love to the resorts made for love.

Love Is All You Need

LSavings may vary by resort and date of travel. NAmenities and activities may vary by resort. *Golf not included in Antigua or Bahamas but available at a course nearby. USpa services additional. SValid on stays of 7 nights or longer. SSValid on stays of 6 nights or longer in a third room category or higher. Additional restrictions may apply.

SAN 22985_SayIDo_LDC.indd 1

412-343-4100

Emma’s Market & Deli

B A H A M A S

As the world’s only Ultra All

88 DENTAL

4100 LIBRARY ROAD CASTLE SHANNON, PA 15234

Graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Proud resident of Upper St. Clair. Provider of most major insurance plans.

Love Is All You Need

Save Up To

discount with this ad!

7/10/07 6:23:53 PM

u Homemade Salads, Sandwiches & Daily Specials u Boar’s Head Lunchmeat u Breadworks Bread u Green Mountain Coffee u Ice Cream Cones, Shakes & Floats u Catering Available

Open Seven Days a Week Hours: Mon—Fri 7 am—7 pm Sat—Sun 8 am—3 pm

Fall 2007 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 5 5 Fall 2007

In partnership with the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair.

Great Music...in Your Own Backyard!

NEW SERIES IN UPPER ST. CLAIR

Saturday • October 27, 2007 • 8:00pm

CÁRDENES

The famed PSO brass section is showcased in Dahl’s “Music for Brass Instruments.” Then it’s the woodwinds’ turn to shine in Barber’s beautiful “Summer Music,” and Andrés Cárdenes and Roy Sonne match bows in Vivaldi’s virtuosic Double Violin Concerto. The Chamber Orchestra comes together in Respighi’s Trittico, and Sibelius’ elegant “Suite Champetre” provides the perfect end to this inaugural concert. Concert Sponsor

Saturday • March 29, 2008 • 8:00pm

LIRETTE

Co-Principal Trumpet Charles Lirette performs Tomaso Albinoni’s Trumpet Concerto. Two living composers are also featured, as the Chamber Orchestra performs Balada's Caprichos No. 4 with Principal Bass Jeffrey Turner and a mystery piece by PSO Composer of the Year, the award-winning John Corigliano. Plus hear the lush sounds of Brahms’ masterful “Sextet in B flat major.”

ADAMS

Mozart’s “Sinfonia Concertante for Winds” is the perfect piece to display the musicality and technical precision of PSO winds; a world premiere written by PSO Principal Timpanist Timothy Adams features both Mr. Adams and Andrés Cárdenes; and Russian composer Leonid Desyatnikov gives us his view of Piazzolla’s Four Seasons in Buenos Aires.

Saturday • May 17, 2008 • 8:00pm

Don’t miss the premiere Pittsburgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra Season in Upper St. Clair. Join conductor Andrés Cárdenes and the PSO for three exciting concerts — a celebration of chamber music performed in the intimate atmosphere of Upper St. Clair High School! As a subscriber, you will receive these exclusive benefits: •Savings of up to18% off the regular ticket price •Priority seating so subscribers get the best seats •An additional 15% discount off tickets to PNC Pittsburgh Symphony Pops or Mellon Grand Classics concerts at Heinz Hall. •Flexibility - When your schedule changes, so can your tickets. All concerts performed at the Upper St. Clair High School, 1825 McLaughlin Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. In partnership with

Series sponsor

UPPER ST. CLAIR PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORDER FORM - WRITE HERE, RIGHT NOW!

Please mail to Pittsburgh Symphony, Subscriber & Ticketing Services, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222 SEATING CHOICE

FRONT CENTER

$75.00

MID-CENTER & SIDES

$54.00 REAR

$39.00

# OF SUBSCRIPTIONS/PRICE LEVEL

PRICE PER SEAT

HANDLING FEE

SUBTOTAL $5.00

When you “donate the difference” between your subscription price and the actual cost of producing concerts and education programs, you help keep the PSO alive as a vibrant resource for the entire community. F Yes, I would like to add the following contribution as an additional gift to the Annual Fund.

CALL

ORVISIT

www.pittsburghsymphony.org

See you at the Symphony!

GRAND TOTAL

PERSONAL INFORMATION

SUBSCRIBE TODAY & SAVE! 412.392.4900

PAYMENT INFORMATION

name ________________________________________________________

F Check enclosed, payable to the Pittsburgh Symphony

address ______________________________________________________

F American Express

city ________________________state ____________zip ____________

account number________________________________________________

home phone __________________________________________________

exp. date ________________________security code __________________

alternate phone ________________________________________________

signature______________________________________________________

email ________________________________________________________ 16

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

F Discover

F MasterCard

F Visa

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair “Creating a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.”

College Scholarships The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is the depository for five college scholarship funds. As of this writing, the Joanne Szymanski Memorial Scholarship is not yet available. The others and their criteria, including the 2007 scholarship recipients, are:

A place to shine!

Ted Barnett Scholarship For a graduating senior who also attended Baker Elementary and will attend a four-year college. Scholarship is based on academics, leadership, extra-curricular involvement, and volunteerism. An application is available in the USCHS Counseling Department.

Nicholas Shea

Ellie Batz Scholarship For a graduating senior who is planning to major or minor in performing or theater arts. The scholarship is based on exceptional talent and leadership. Applicant must have participated in the USCHS musical or fall play for at least two years. An application is available through high school Fine and Performing Arts curriculum leader Paul Fox. Joyce Hinnebusch

William A. Pope Scholarship For a graduating senior planning a post-high school educational program. An applicant’s essay should provide evidence of selflessness among peers and a willingness to help others through volunteerism, that the applicant has achieved the best in school performance, and that the applicant has limited opportunities for other academic or athletic scholarships. An application is available in the USCHS Counseling Department. Lisa Ripper

Celebrating 27 years Increase skill Ì Develop Talent Ì Nurture Creativity Ì

For students of all levels 4 to 18 years old Jazz Ì Ballet Ì Tap Hip Hop Ì Musical Theater Acting Ì Voice Movie Making Ì Improv

T.J. White Upper St. Clair Athletic Scholarship For a graduating senior attending a four-year college who plans on continuing participation in his or her sport. An applicant must have been a member of a USC team sport for all four years of high school and been awarded at least two varsity letters in that sport. A 3.2 grade point average is required. An application is available in the USCHS Counseling Department.

Musical performance for High School Students Jeremy Block

Fall Classes start September 10th For more information

(412) 563-5080 Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

www.Centerfortheaterarts.org

Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-220-7780

250 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15234

Website: www.mainstreetusc.com • Email: mainstreetusc@adelphia.net Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township of Upper St. Clair Ched Mertz

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

Bill Bates

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

Township News

Preston W. Shimer Ward

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

Kenneth L. Brown Ward

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

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Meetings All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000. March 5, 00

April , 00

Approximately 0 people attended.

Approximately people attended.

Recognitions and Proclamations: • Commissioner Mertz recognized the members of Boy Scout Troop #336, Westminster Presbyterian Church who were present at the meeting to fulfill a requirement for a Boy Scout communications merit badge. • Commissioner Mertz presented Mary Trocano with a Certificate of Appreciation for her service to the Township as a library volunteer for 20 years and a dedicated regular part-time library employee for the Township for 25 years.

Recognitions and Proclamations: • Commissioner Marsh presented James. T. Gralka with a Proclamation recognizing his attainment of Eagle Scout rank. • Lois Hoop shared with the Board of Commissioners the library’s Best Practices in Early Learning 2007 Award which was received from the Pennsylvania Library Association. The Upper St. Clair Library had received this award for its winning program Ready to Read for Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Kindergartners.

The Board: • Continued the public hearing of PLC06-0011-Ross Development Company, Final Development Plan, 1630 Washington Road, Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary Land Development Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 4-07 to grant Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to WIN-Upper St. Clair, L.P. • Adopted Resolution 1472 to proceed with a $10,000,000 Capital Bond Issue for consideration by the Board of Commissioners, a compilation of projects to be considered for financing and the authorization to Township staff; Bond underwriter, Ferris, Baker Watts; and the Township financial advisor, Susquehanna Group Advisors, Inc. to prepare the documentation to proceed forward for issuance of the bonds. • Adopted Resolution 1473 authorizing appropriate officials of the Township to authorize the disposal of Township records in accordance with the Pennsylvania Records Retention Act and the Township Code. Board Approval of Contracts: • Sciarretti Asphalt Paving Company Braddock 2007 street resurfacing ........................... $1,044,510.36

Robert W. Orchowski

• Penn Line Service, Inc. Scottdale 2007 street crack sealing .................................. $26,000

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

• Hunters Truck Sales Butler 2008 International 7400 4X2 cab and chassis .................................... $67,722.02

Ward

• Day Fleet Sales Monroeville 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 4X4 pick-up truck ............................................ $26,213

Frank E. Marsh Ward 5

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

Karen M. McElhinny At Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1732 2009*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

• Murphy Family, Inc. Washington Two 2007 Kubota RTV900 W6-H utility vehicles .................................. $19,127.82 • The Gateway Engineers, Inc. Pittsburgh Public Works building retaining wall design and bid specifications ....................................... $31,000 Harrow and Norton Roads watershed study (groundwater monitoring and storm sewer testing) ......................................... $33,250 • Franklin Fixtures Wareham, MA Bookcase shelving for children’s library ........... $29,057

March , 00 Approximately 5 people attended.

The Board: • Adopted Bill No. 5-07 to authorize the incurring of nonelectoral debt for the purpose of providing funds for a capital improvement project by the issuance of General Obligation Bonds in an aggregate principal amount of $9,995,000.

8 2007 8 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

The Board: • Tabled to continue Public Hearing regarding PLC06-0011, Ross Development Company, Final Development Plan, 1630 Washington Road for approval to May 7, 2007. • Adopted Bill No. 6-07 amending Chapter 57 of the Township Code entitled “Fees.” • Nominated Robert W. Stevenson to fill the Planning Commission vacancy.

April 0, 00

Special Meeting Approximately people attended.

The Board: • Placed on the Agenda for the April 30, 2007, Informational and General Affairs Meeting authorizing the engineers to proceed with the design process for the Proposed Community Recreation Center and to discuss updating the public on the Proposed Community Recreation Center at a future Special Meeting of the Board of Commissioners to be held at Upper St. Clair High School. • Obtained a request for proposal for commissioning the Community Recreation Center.

May , 00 Approximately people attended.

Recognitions and Proclamations: • Commissioner Brown presented a Proclamation proclaiming National EMS Week May 20-26, 2007, in Upper St. Clair, to Nora Helfrich, Director of Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services. The Board: • Adopted Bill No. 1-07 - PLC06-0011, Ross Development Company, Final Development Plan, 1630 Washington Road, Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary Land Development Approval. • Adopted an Amendment to allow additional cow grazing on the Township portion of Gilfillan Farm to benefit the Historical Society and for the cost of the fencing to be taken from the proceeds of the Gilfillan Trust Fund that is controlled by the Township. • Adopted Resolution No. 1474, the Allegheny County Hazard Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation Plan. Board Approval of Contracts: • A&H Equipment, Inc. Bridgeville One dump body up fit ............................. $27,710.48 Two nine-foot aluminum dump body up fits ........................................ $34,316 One dump body up fit for F-550 dump truck................................... $17,158 • Allegheny Ford Pittsburgh One Ford F-550 dump truck cab and chassis ............................................ $27,191

F a l l 0 0 Comprehensive Plan Update The Township adopted the 2005 Comprehensive Plan on June 5, 2006, and a component of the Plan was an action list of goals to accomplish over the next ten years. The Township staff has already been working on a number of the goals, many of which require funding. The Board of Commissioners recently floated a $10 million bond, which included line items for several projects referenced in the Plan (See page 18, March 16, 2007, meeting). One of the important projects includes the construction of sidewalks along Fort Couch Road linking Eisenhower Elementary and Fort Couch Middle School and along Washington Road from Consol to Fieldgate Drive. These sidewalks will allow for better connectivity from Fort Couch Middle School all the way to the active area at Boyce Mayview Park. Another component of the bond is the continuation of the NPDES Stormwater Phase II program and the EPA Consent Order. Both of these projects are ongoing from year to year. Significant funds have already been spent on upgrades to the sanitary sewer system throughout the Township. In addition to the sewers, the Township worked with PennDOT to construct a right-turn-lane from Washington Road northbound onto Boyce Road Extension. This project was completed by PennDOT in the summer. On June 4, the Board of Commissioners adopted a traffic calming policy for the Township. This will allow residents the opportunity to bring forward petitions so the Township can administer tests to determine appropriate measures of decreasing speed and frequency of vehicle trips within certain neighborhoods. The adopted policy is located on the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org. Probably one of the most well known projects is the development of Boyce Mayview Park. The first phase of the development included the construction of athletic fields along with a concession stand and restroom facilities. Due to the need for an entire growing season, the fields will be ready to use in fall 2008. The second phase of the park will include the Community Recreation Center. Plans for the Community Recreation Center continue to move forward, with the project scheduled for bid this fall. For the most up to date information on the project, visit the Township website at www.twpusc.org. The design team has worked very hard at providing a pedestrian link between all of the active area facilities in the park. n

2007 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Hearing Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

Visit the Township’s website www.twpusc.org

Among those attending the field renaming ceremony were, left to right, Mike Fornear, USCAA spokesman; Tim Murphy, U.S. Congressman; Kirk Ferentz, University of Iowa head football coach and USCHS graduate; Ched Mertz, president of the Township Board of Commissioners; and Jeff Joyce, Board of School director.

Municipal Field Renamed The Township of Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners voted to change the name of the ballpark on McLaughlin Run Road from Municipal Field to Founders’ Field. A brief d e d i c a - tion ceremony was held at the site on June 23. “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the USC Athletic Association,” said commissioner and board president Ched Mertz. “We thought it was an appropriate time to honor the volunteer coaching efforts of all who have taught our community’s children so much about sports and life on the Township’s ball fields and playing courts.” The name of the field was changed in conjunction with the efforts of the USCAA Founders’ Memorial Fund. By the end of September, the Founders’ Fund will have put $35,000 worth of athletic facility infrastructure improvements in place throughout the community, while also donating over $5000 to various local charities. “It has been one of the greatest honors and privileges of our lives to be involved in developing this tribute to those who did so much to make this community what it is today,” said the association’s spokesman, Mike Fornear. Learn more about the Athletic Association’s work by visiting its website, www.uscaafoundersmemorialfund.com or by calling 412-726-7206. n

Upper St. Clair Township to Change Sewer Credit Meter Process The Pennsylvania American Water Company, which provides the Township with billing and collection services of sewer user fees, is now offering a service called “Winter Averaging” for summer time sewer bills. In 2007, the Township Board of Commissioners will be considering the appropriate parameters that will be needed to implement the program for the summer months of 2008, but the two main benefits of the program will be the following: Since water usage during the summer months generally increases due to activities that do not involve the Township’s sewer system such as watering grass and filling swimming pools, the “Winter Averaging” method will allow the sewer billing to be based on an individual user’s average water used during winter months. In the past, only residents who documented these non-sewer water related activities through the use of credit meters received this benefit. Now this credit can be passed onto most residential homeowners of the Township without the additional cost of installation of the meter and the work of reporting water usage for the credit. n Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

We hope you enjoyed

Community Day 2007!

There were many highlights of Community Day 2007—mud volleyball, Run for Fun, the parade, contests, music, and booths. The Community Day committee members extend their appreciation to all who worked to make the day so enjoyable and to the patrons who provided financial support: ARAMARK Nutrition Services, Bower Hill Auto Body, Centimark Corporation, Chuck’s Complete Auto Service, Comcast, Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, Friendship Village of South Hills, Giant Eagle Market District, Lorenzato Automotive Service, Miller’s Ace Hardware, Moe’s Southwest Grille, National City Bank–South Hills Village Office, Parkside Plus, PNC Bank, Rusmur Floors Carpet One, Senator John Pippy, South Hills Financial Group, St. Clair Country Club, Taylor Rental/Party Plus, The Gateway Engineers, Inc., Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc., Upper St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, and ZEP Manufacturing Co./Ray Santomo. Community Day 2007 photos courtesy of Terry Kish and Karen Boston 0

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Community Day 00 “Run for Fun” Race Results Congratulations to the 200 race

participants who ran or walked in the 2007 Community Day’s “Run for Fun.” The day dawned sunny and not too hot—a perfect day for a 5K! This was the inaugural year for a customdesigned “Fun Run/Walk” T-shirt, which was very successful! We couldn’t have pulled it off without the help of our adult and youth volunteers, high school student council members, and, of course, the race participants. Come out next year and start your Community Day activities on the right foot (and then the left)! Visit UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s website at www.twpusc.org/magazine “features” link to see a complete listing of this year’s race participants and corresponding finishing times. n

Eight-year-old Connor Leavey of

tured Connor Leavey pic

rtificate

with his award ce

Manor Drive, a student at Baker Elementary, was the winner of the “What I like best in Upper St. Clair” youth drawing competition sponsored by Prudential Preferred Realty as part of Community Day 2007. In his drawing, Connor depicted people holding hands within the “USC” lettering under the heading “Unbelievable Super Communities.” He said the best thing in Upper St. Clair is how many different people join together. Connor is the son of Tim and Elizabeth Leavey. n

Fall 2007

Connor’s award-winning dra

wing

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Library Fall Programs for Adults

Friends of the USC Library 00 Annual Used Book Sale

Legacy to Our Grandchildren/Memoir Writing Creating a Healthy Home The Frugal Gardener Make a Scarf for Holiday Giving Women’s Finances After Divorce Crafts by Evanovich: Wreaths for Your Door Passing Your Holiday Memories to Your Children Today’s China: World Affairs Council Conversation Salon

Members of the Friends of the USC Library formed a long line awaiting entry on opening night of the sale—Preview Night, for members only. Everyone found some bargain books to take home!

The 00 used book sale

sponsored by the Friends of the USC Library was a rousing success, with hundreds of USC residents and many others flocking in to take advantage of big bargains in better books. Proceeds from the sale, which ran from May 9-15, topped $11,000, which will be used to enhance the library’s services and facilities to the community.

Do you have an idea for a program? Let the library know. Call 412-835-5540 or fill out a program suggestion form located across from the library’s adult circulation desk.

Friends of the USC Library Greeted the Community on May 19 Once again the Friends of the USC

Library greeted the community who visited among the volumes at the Friends’ corner bookstall booth, an annual landmark at USC Community Day. Many members of the Friends stopped by to pick up their free books, and a number of newcomers signed up for membership and received a free book as a signing bonus. Many new members signed up or renewed at Community Day, like this family who enrolled for a family membership. They chose a children’s book as their free signing bonus.

Booklovers of all ages ﬂocked to the annual used book sale of the Friends of the USC Library.

Sale chairperson Elyse Clearfield, announcing the results said, “This year’s sale was one of the most active ever. I can hardly wait to see what excitement next year will bring!”

Friends president Ken Leonardi sells another bargain book as he and his wife, Mary, took turns at manning the booth at Community Day 2007.

The special event of the day was a Chinese auction for a variety of book sets on display at the booth. Winners were Susan Highley, Karen Riley, Debra Lane, Denise Virgi, Sadie Price, Chris Kenter, Rodney Green, Karen Flinter, and Mark Chiocca.

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. Closed Monday, September 4 Book sale patrons chose from books on nearly every subject imaginable. Some of them bought bargains by the bagful!

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Outside book and video return available 24 hours a day, collected daily at 9 a.m. • 412-835-5540

Fall Children’s Programs Fall Storytimes Our popular storytimes for children ages four months to second grade will run for a seven-week session during the fall. Storytimes will begin the week of October 1 and end the week of November 12. The following programs will be held:

• Babies and Toddlers: Children ages four to 24 months with a caregiver Mondays at 10 a.m. or Tuesdays at 10 or 11 a.m.

• Twos and Threes: Children ages two to three and one half years with a caregiver Thursdays or Fridays at 10 or 11 a.m.

• Pre-School Storytime: Children ages three and one half to five years old Tuesdays at 1:45 p.m., Wednesdays at 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m.

Children attending the Flower Fairy Tea Party created fairy wands with the help of a volunteer.

• More Than a Story: Children in kindergarten to second grade Wednesdays or Thursdays at 4 p.m. Bedtime Stories Come to the library to hear some great stories before “lights out.” The library offers this program one Wednesday evening a month. Call the library at 412-835-5540 for the time and date of the next bedtime storytime. Teen Volunteer Program: Advisory Council Earn volunteer hours by joining the Upper St. Clair Library’s Teen Advisory Council. Students in grade seven and higher may register for a series of once-a-month meetings to discuss ways to improve the library. The library is looking for motivated students who like to read, like the library, and want to make it a better place for teens! Hours of service completed will reflect the number of meetings attended. Call Colleen at 412-835-5540 to apply. Monster Night at the Library Big Foot and The Mummy and Frankenstein, oh my! Welcome to Monster Night @ the Library. Plan to join the fun and frights on the evening of Tuesday, October 23. This program is not for sissies!

A voluntee butterﬂy on onr painted a beautiful e of the the Flower Fa attendees of iry Tea Party.

ok was shared A Star Wars bo ’s ry ra during the lib ogram. Be with You” pr “May the Force

We’re Holden Puppets Presents: Punch and Judy in the Punchaphonium Punch fancies himself a great musician—the only problem is he’s tone deaf! You’ll laugh ’til you cry as Punch “blows away” one critic after another. Quite possibly the funniest puppet show you will ever see! Come see this great show for families and kids of all ages on Saturday, November 17.

Children’s Library Makeover Over the next two years, the Upper St. Clair Township

Lbrary will conduct a major “makeover” that will create an exciting, inviting, and user-friendly library for children, their parents, and caregivers. Planning has been underway for some time, and this past May an innovative shelving system was installed in the young child area of the library. This shelving system is designed to make books easier to find and will allow for increased book displays. The new design created space for a child-friendly play and early learning area. There is a special place for babies and toddlers, an imaginative play area, and a space devoted to “concepts kits,” which support the development of early learning skills. The Friends of the USC Library are providing funds for seating and additional play area equipment.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Recycle—Please Do! Curbside Recyling Ever wonder why your recycling items were not picked up? You are not alone. Many residents call the Public Works Department each week asking this same question. While taking the initiative to recycle is the first step, knowing exactly how and what to recycle is what ensures pickup. The chart below clarifies what is and what is not acceptable for curbside pickup. MATERIAL Aluminum Glass

PLEASE DO RECYCLE • Beverage Cans*

PLEASE DO NOT RECYCLE • Pie Plates • Folding Chair Frames

• Glass Food and Beverage Containers* (clear, green, or amber)

• Light Bulbs • Window/Mirror Glass • Ceramics or Pottery

Metal Cans

• Food Cans made of Steel or Tin (empty only)* • No Other Metals

Newspapers

• Newspapers (with inserts)

• Newspaper Bags/Rubber Bands

• All Plastic Jugs and Bottles with #1 or # 2 Plastic identification* (Number is located on bottom of container)

• Plastic Bags or Cups • Motor Oil or Pool Chemical Containers • Styrofoam

Plastics

* Remove all lids, caps, and metal or plastic rings prior to recycling.

If you have questions regarding items to be placed for curbside collection, contact the Public Works Department at 412-831-9000, extension 271 or visit the Township website at www.twpusc.org.

Curbside recycling

Self-serve Recycle Bin The Township has a 24-hour self-serve paper recycling bin in the small parking lot across from the Public Works building on Truxton Drive. The chart below clarifies what is and what is not acceptable for self-serve recycling. MATERIAL Cardboard

PLEASE DO RECYCLE • Corrugated Cardboard Boxes

PLEASE DO NOT RECYCLE • Packing Material

Chipboard

• Dry Food Boxes (cake, cereal, cracker–with no liner)

• Bar Soap/Detergent Boxes • Towel or Tissue Rolls • Pizza Boxes

• Magazines • Telephone Books • Catalogs

• Paperback/Hardbound Books

• Computer and Writing Paper • Junk Mail • Brown Paper Grocery Bags • File Folders • Envelopes

• Facial or Toilet Tissue • Paper Towels or Plates • Diapers • Pet Food Bags • FedEx/Self-sealing Envelopes

Magazines/Books

Paper

00 -08 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Labor Day ........................ Friday, September 7 (Delayed one day) Week of Thanksgiving Day ........... Friday, November 23 (Delayed one day) Week of Christmas ........................ Friday, December 28 (Delayed one day) Week of New Year’s........................ Friday, January 4, 2008 (Delayed one day)

00 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place the following six Saturdays: October 20 and 27; November 3, 10, and 17; December 1

Self-serve recycle bin on Truxton Drive

Did You Know? • Making aluminum from recycled materials uses 95% less energy than making it from scratch. • Producing recycled paper creates 74% less air pollution and 35% less water pollution than fabricating paper without recycled materials. • Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to keep a 100-watt bulb burning for almost four hours or run your television for three hours. (Source: Aluminum Association, 2004). n

For more information pertaining to recycling and household hazardous waste collection, visit the following websites: www.1800cleanup.org or www.swpahhw.org. Dumpster rentals and special pick up service are provided by Allied Waste. For fees and information, call Allied Waste at 412-429-2600.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

The Bridges of Boyce Mayview Park Walter Jarosh, Township Forester

Cur ved Bridge Trail

Morton Falls Trail

Group Benefits

The many miles of trails that traverse the varied terrain and habitats in Boyce

Mayview Park are interconnected by a number of beautiful bridges. The bridges within the park have been assembled and constructed by the Township Public Works Department or built as Eagle Scout projects by the local Scout troops. The Township is most appreciative of the Allegheny Regional Asset District (ARAD) grant support for various trail maintenance and park management services including this bridge segment. In 2006, ARAD began providing financial support to this Township-owned, regionally-operated park. As the green foliage of summer changes to a blaze of fall colors and the forest prepares for winter, make the time to explore the trails and enjoy the exquisite views found in the park. Cross a few bridges and leave the stress of life behind as you commune with the birds and forest creatures. You can visit often and experience the transformation of the forest from summer to fall, then to winter splendor; but be alert and let us know if there really is a troll living under one of the bridges. To help in your search, we’ve provided a few photos to entice you to make the trek. n

Queen Maple Trail

Commercial Insurance Individual Financial Planning Professional Liability Coverage Life-Disability-Automobile-Homeowners

Protecting Today. Securing Tomorrow .

Woodlands Trail

Henderson Brothers, Inc. 920 Fort Duquesne Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 T • 412 261 1842 F • 412 261 4149 E • info@hendersonbrothers.com

www.hendersonbrothers.com

Wetlands Trail, Two Forks Boardwalk Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy An Opportunity for People who Live or Work in Upper St. Clair The Upper St. Clair Police Department is hosting its

2007 Citizens’ Police Academy with classes beginning October 10 and ending November 14, 2007. The Academy classes are conducted at the Police Department on Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. for six weeks. The course syllabus includes instruction and scenario-based training on various aspects of law enforcement and public safety. It is open to adults of all ages. There is no charge for the academy. Objectives include: • An overview of the criminal justice system. • Local ordinances, crimes, and vehicle code issues. • The United States Constitution and citizens’ rights. • Firearms safety, use of force, and defensive tactics. • Patrol procedures, traffic stops, speed enforcement, and officer safety. • Criminal, drug, and gang investigations. • Domestic crimes, custody disputes, and missing children. • The role of the District Attorney and the District Court. • Local crimes, current investigations, programs, and public issues. If you are interested in this free program available to all adult Upper St. Clair residents, please complete and mail or deliver the application below to the Upper St. Clair Police Department, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. If you have questions or need further information, contact the Police Administration office, Monday–Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at 412-833-1113. Sign up now for the 00 Citizens’ Police Academy beginning in October.

Upper St. Clair Police Department 00 Citizens’ Police Academy Application Name: (last, ﬁrst, middle) _________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Home Phone: ______________________ Cell Phone #:_____________________ Employer and Phone Number: _________________________________________ Social Security Number: ______________________________________________ Date of Birth: ______________________________________________________ Email Address: _____________________________________________________ Have you ever been arrested? _________________________________________ If yes, please explain: ________________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________________________ The ﬁnal decision on class participants is up to the sole discretion of the Upper St. Clair Police Department. Please mail or deliver to: Upper St. Clair Police Department 1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Emergency 412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500 • Administration 412-833-1113

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Susanne Chabara When Joan Kubancek received a warning for a

traffic violation from an Upper St. Clair police officer five years ago, he said her name would be put on “the list.” Not really sure what this list was about, she heeded his advice and kept out of trouble for the ensuing years. On October 11, 2006, she confronted another USC police officer and told him that she enrolled in the Citizens’ Police Academy to find out if her name was still on the list. Lt. John Sakoian, who has been in charge of the academy since its inception in 2001, reassured her that it was not, and that her slate had been wiped clean. Kubancek and her husband were just two of the 19 residents who had signed up for the 2006 Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy. The academy is “designed for people who want to learn more about what we (police officers) do,” said Lt. Sakoian, who credits Chief Ronald Pardini with the birth of this program. “He (the Chief) wanted to establish public relations with the community and the academy was a good vehicle to do that.” Lt. Sakoian was the facilitator of the program and, in partnership with Police Officer Curtis Gallatin, has streamlined the six-week syllabus and “modeled it after our own training and general proficiency in self defense, firearms, critical incident, homeland security, and so on.” So what is the Citizens’ Police Academy all about? Here’s a brief overview of the sixth annual academy held last fall. The citizens’ training began with a basic orientation of the Upper St. Clair Police Department and its members, and a tour of its facilities, including the small holding cell, now devoid of a sink which had been ripped out by an angered occupant. Each participant was issued a two-inch thick student manual with pertinent police information and a mock police badge. Contact information was shared, as well as some background information about the participants’ interest in the program. The second session and all subsequent sessions began with a reading of the week’s “hot sheet.” That’s actually a “Confidential Information Sheet” containing reports of previous and current investigations in USC. Although incidents were minimal that week, Lt. Sakoian warned of upcoming Halloween pranks and pre-holiday thefts common around this time of the year. He then continued with the most logistical and theoretical class of all, which entailed an introduction to criminal and civil law, as well as a broad overview of Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system. Case histories were given and examples of criminal cases were presented, as well as a wealth of information citizens might not be aware of when involved in a crime or accident. For example, the USC Police Department is equipped with accident reconstruction equipment, and specialized engineers and technicians can run through available data to determine how and why an accident occurred. Interestingly, every vehicle equipped with air bags also has a Crash Data Recorder (CDR or Black Box) which is activated by the air bag sensors and records and maintains data five seconds before a crash.

The third session was held at the Allegheny County Police Academy in North Park, where participants got an opportunity to use the Firearms Training System, also known as FATS. Most participants agreed that this was the most intriguing class because it gave them an opportunity to be in a police officer’s shoes. The group was divided into three smaller groups to give everyone ample opportunity to practice and experience FATS during their two-hour session. FATS, used to train all police officers in Allegheny County, is a computerized and simulated program that projects scenarios involving criminals and innocent civilians in real life situations. These situations can be manipulated by the program operator to test one’s skill and ability to witness, evaluate, and execute a course of action in split seconds. In one example, at a local high school you see a heated, physical fight between two teenagers, one sitting on top of the other and throwing punches. As you identify yourself as a police officer, the two men pull apart and you naturally aim your weapon at the teenager who had been throwing the punches. In the blink of an eye, the other teenager on the ground pulls out a gun, aims, and fires at you. Naturally, you fire back, and the number of rounds you fired, whether your shots hit or missed, and your reaction speed are then graphically revealed to you. “It’s not as easy as it looks on TV—just point and shoot,” said Deborah Dorsey, a 17-year resident of Upper St. Clair and participant at the session. “Reality definitely isn’t the same as TV, and this session enforced my belief that I don’t want to own a gun.” Prior to the start of this session, the citizens were educated in the use of force in law enforcement as outlined in the Crimes Code, as well as officer and firearm safety, and “shoot-don’t shoot” situations. But despite the briefing, the real life scenarios brought a chilling reality to the difficulty of a policeman’s duty and the risks they take to protect and serve. Gym clothes were needed at the fourth session, where the group was introduced to Officers Jon Wharton and Pat Keally. Officer Keally holds several martial arts titles and trains other department officers in self defense and offensive tactics. He talked about pressure point control principles and demonstrated several techniques with the help of Officer Wharton who was acting as the perpetrator. Officer Wharton weighs in at a muscular 220 pounds, but was easily subdued and brought to his knees by the lean Officer Keally through one or two swift and highly effective moves and twists. Patrol procedures, traffic, DUI, and felony stops were covered at the next session. The participants were again divided into groups. One group began by testing the breathalyzer and learned about warranted blood testing. Another group met Officer Murphy in the squad room where they were shown a video from an actual police pursuit. A third group rode in patrol cars and learned about VASCAR and radar speed control, as well as all the electronic resources available to a patrol officer on duty. Yet another group participated in a role-playing felony stop and had to work with their partners to get the driver out of the car and ensure that he was not armed. Probably the most chilling and graphically vivid class was the final one. Participants were shown actual crime scene photos of a murder that occurred in Upper St. Clair several years ago. The ensuing discussion covered how the criminal, after constant and diligent investigation, was finally tracked down and arrested in Florida. There was other footage of petty crimes at South Hills Village and a chilling video of the shooting at Columbine High School.

2006 Graduating Class

Graduates of Upper St. Clair Police Department’s 2006 Citizens’ Police Academy are, left to right, seated: Alyson Robinson, Deborah Dorsey, Susanne Chabara, Chris Campbell, Vanessa Ryzner, Colleen Miles, Joan Kubancek, Theodore Noethling; standing: Armando Ocando, Armando A. Ocando, Albert Caterino, Todd Kubrick, Edward Kubancek, James Boston, Kevin Kubrick, Andrew Priano, Gerry Priano, Bradley Wucher, Gregory Pirker, Jason Powell, Sergeant Curtis Gallatin, and Lieutenant John Sakoian; inset photo: Police Chief Ronald Pardini and Brenda Wussick.

“I walked away with more respect for the police department and the different aspects of the officers careers that you normally wouldn’t think about as citizens,” said Colleen Miles, touching upon one of the goals this academy is set out to achieve. “A policeman has a perspective on life, family, and duty,” said Lt. Sakoian. Now, through the Citizens’ Police Academy, he hopes that participants “are a little bit more informed about our work and more situationally aware to protect themselves from becoming victims.” n

Officer Dean Majcher with this year’s bicycle winner, Brittney Desselle, and helmet winners (left to right) Eddie Zunic, Eli Grape, Andrew Wharton, and Sean Martin.

The annual bicycle registration and safety program

was sponsored by the Upper St. Clair Police Department this past May. Bike safety inspections, an obstacle skills course, and traffic safety instruction were included in the program. Participants entered to win various prizes. Lucky winners included Brittney Desselle, who won a new bicycle, and Eddie Zunic, Eli Grape, Andrew Wharton, and Sean Martin who each won a new helmet. The Police Department would like to thank the following sponsors that made this event possible: Chick-fil-A, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Lorenzato Automotive. n Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC-USTC The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair

The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair (USC-USTC) have enjoyed a busy summer. In May there was a

picnic at the Boyce Mayview pavilion, where they enjoyed the fine sights and sounds of the natural setting. During a trip to the Greek Festival in Mt. Lebanon they sampled delectable cuisine. Proving that people of all ages enjoy summer camp, the seniors joined the Upper St. Clair Girl Scouts at their day camp in South Park for a day of outdoor cooking and camp crafts. Another popular event was the Holidays in July luncheon, complete with gift exchange. Members of USC-USTC cordially invite you to join. The Recreation Center is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for the Township’s senior citizens; a hot lunch is served after a short business meeting at 12:30 p.m. Retired residents, age 55 and older, are eligible for membership in the program, which is sponsored by the USC Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. For additional information about the Township’s program or other services available, including registration for ACCESS, the Port Authority Senior citizen pass, or the Recreation Department’s Silver Card, contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, at 412-831-9000, extension 296. n

g Enjoyin at a picnic ce the Boy Mayview pavilion Senior Bowling League The 2007-08 bowling league for USC-USTC is now forming. The league bowls on Mondays at 12:30 p.m. at the AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes on Washington Road at the corner of Gilkeson and Conner Roads. For more information, contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, at 412-831-9000, extension 296. n

United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair Ofﬁcers and Board 2007-08 President: Louise Cohen First vice president: Lou Cohen Second vice president: Ed Ayoub Treasurer: John Lesica Corresponding secretary: Elinor Lippke Recording secretary: Elaine MacDonald

Board of Directors (2006-08): Betsey Krebs, Pat Milito, Barbara Tate, Florence Dorn (2007-09): Al Baumgartner, Liz Jawelak, Moehinder Dhadha, Pauli Dhadha

Gold Card

Silver Card

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. Enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District. If you are a resident 62 years of age or older, just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card! It’s a great way to experience your community.

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, the Recreation and Leisure Services Department offers for your consideration the Silver Card. Holders of this card are entitled to free admittance to the three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, and family swim at the High School pool. Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card Program. Applications are available at the Recreation Department, so stop in and ask for your Silver Card!

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Westminster Presbyterian Church

A Caring Community of Faith Beginning September 13

“Moving On After Moving In” Encouragement for Women going through the transition and adjustment of moving

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Rd. • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone 412-835-6630 or visit www.westminster-church.org

General Election—Tuesday, November 6, 2007 Polls Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007, is Voter Registration Deadline Date. (Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)

If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, please call the Allegheny County Elections Department at 412-350-4500 or visit www.twpusc.org. The Township Library and the post office have voter registration forms.

Please exercise your right to vote! Ward District Polling Place

Township Building, Library Multi-purpose Room, Ground Floor - McLaughlin Run Road

Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium Morton Road

Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

Westminster Presbyterian Church - Washington Road

Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

Ward District 3 1 3 2 3 3 4 1 4 2 4 3 4 4 5 1 5 2 5 3

Polling Place Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road St. Louise de Marillac School - McMurray Road Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium - Morton Road Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USCVFD is Fit to Fight Mike Russell, USCVFD Fitness Chair When I signed up to be a volunteer firefighter over five years ago, I soon learned

training, a year of probation, and additional drill, house, and truck duties before he or she that there are many required competencies can be called a firefighter. All of these activities beyond structural firefighting and vehicle are designed to teach firefighters how to use rescue, including business, mechanical, orthe tools of firefighting, how to be safe, and ganizational, leadership, social, political, and how to work as a team. Firefighters sometimes even health and fitness skills. Maintenance miss the two things that could put them most and improvement of health and fitness are at risk for death or injury in the volunteer fire particularly important, since a firefighter’s service—diet and physical activity outside of activity level can go from zero to 100 miles the fire department. Most firefighters love to per hour in a moment’s notice. This can be a train to do the job, but not enough train to live major jolt to the cardiovascular system if one healthy lifestyles to be able to perform at the is not prepared! peak of their abilities. I have made it my goal to increase not only The Boy Scout’s motto, “Be prepared,” is my own health and fitness skill set, but also the mentality that I would like USCVFD firethat of the entire volunteer fire department fighters to adopt. Our mission is to help all membership. I have been active in sports my USCVFD members be prepared before showing entire life and I’ve tried, for the most part, to up to a fire call by providing the resources and remain in good physical condition. I know information for optimum health and physical what it takes to stay in shape and what it means performance. USCVFD member Mike Russell to work hard, and I can honestly say that some To help accomplish this department goal, the of the most strenuous activities that I have ever done have oc- advice of Sonshine Fitness (www.sonshinefitness.com) experts curred while being a volunteer firefighter. Several large fires and Stasi and Larry Longo was solicited. Both Stasi and Larry are emergency incidents that I have been involved in over the years diet and fitness professionals who counsel individual clients to have been more physically demanding than any sport that I have achieve their goals. Stasi is an internationally recognized fitness ever participated in. competitor and author, while Larry, a fitness trainer for over 20 It is no wonder then, when one reviews the statistics regard- years, is a nationally recognized competitor in ultra marathons. ing firefighter deaths, that nearly half of all firefighter deaths are The Longos are working with the USCVFD by performing fitness due to cardiovascular related incidents. Statistics from the U.S. assessments, nutritional instruction, developing a fitness plan for Fire Administration (www.usfa.dhs.gov) consistently report that members, providing motivation, and creating the opportunity at least 100 firefighters will lose their lives to achieve departmental and individual goals every year. Of that 100, 45% of the deaths to better perform each member’s firefighting will be due to heart attacks; and of the 45% duties. who suffer heart attacks, more than half will To date, the department has: be volunteer firefighters who do their job not • Received five hours of nutritional for pay, but because they want to make an instruction. uncompensated contribution to their com• Received five hours of weight training and munity. More firefighters, paid or volunteer, cardiovascular instruction. die from heart attacks than any other cause. • Received individual nutritional plans. Firefighting is a dangerous endeavor which is • Received individual weight lifting and often compounded by the lifestyle choices we cardiovascular plans. as individuals make. Department members are also participating Many firefighter deaths are preventable if in a contest developed by Sonshine Fitness we take the proper actions to ensure our safety. called “Larry’s Race to Lose,” where members I wear a black rubber band on my right wrist are logging their individual cardiovascular that says, “Everyone goes home.” The band is activity in the form of a contest. Local busia constant reminder to me (and to all firefightnesses have extended their generosity by ers) to think safety and act safely. Sponsored donating goods and services as prizes for the by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation top ten volunteer firefighters who log 30 hours USCVFD member Doug Heckman (www.everyonegoeshome.com), the program of cardiovascular exercise. My goal is to have with a trainer aims to inform and educate. For me, the take at least 75% departmental participation in the away message is to assess what our greatest risks as firefighters fitness contest. Look for the results of this contest in subsequent are and address them. Statistically speaking, the biggest risk is issues of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. cardiovascular health. Firefighting, be it volunteer or paid, is a dangerous endeavor Every Upper St. Clair volunteer firefighter is required to and the healthier firefighters are going in, the more likely they fulfill initial training requirements of 188 hours of firefighter will make a safe return. n 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Monte Carlo Night

Highley

March was a night of fun, games, and “high stakes” excitement as members of the USC Volunteer Fire

Dedicated

Department hosted their second annual Monte Carlo Night. The event, held at St. Louise de Marillac’s Le Gras Hall, offered the thrill of Vegas without leaving the Township as participants tried their luck at a number of table games. New this year was “A Night at the Races” which offered a chance to cheer on a favorite racehorse. Winners received tickets to be used for a chance on one of the many wonderful prizes that were part of the Chinese auction. USCVFD members thank all those who attended and helped make the night so successful, and they extend a special thanks to the many businesses that donated prizes for the event. n

Knowledgeable Accessible Dependable $75 Million Sales in 16 Years

Susan Highley

ABR, CRS, SRES 412-833-3600 Cell 412-889-1214

Placing chances on the Chinese auction

Texas Hold’em was a popular game.

There was always a crowd at the craps table.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Where Hope Abounds Van Brenlove She was lying in the hospital in months or even days, my preconceived meet it with the same dignity and respect bed in the living room resting comfortably, notion was that hospice is where they would they deserved when they were living that all 70 or 80 pounds of her. Every once in a go to passively and meaninglessly live out life more fully. They give the gift of life in while she would awaken and seem to have their time in some sort of hopeless existence. the midst of death, and they help to make a conversation with someone who wasn’t But hospice caregivers know too well that wishes come true. Not surprisingly, I learned that for over there. Later, she turned her head to me and, each client they serve is not an animal lying in a gentle frail voice, simply asked, “Sir, sir, helpless in the desert but rather a precious, 70% of Americans one of the most significant would you hold my hand?’ I think all she unique human being. Each has hopes, fears, final wishes we have is to be allowed to die in wanted to know was that she wasn’t alone. dreams, and work to be done, sometimes our own home, comforted by those we love As a newly minted volunteer coordinator under the most difficult circumstances, and in the surroundings with which we are most familiar. What was surprising is that for Heartland Hospice, it was my less than half of us ever see that hapfirst time doing what our volunteers pen. Why? do so frequently and selflessly, visitWhy don’t we do everything ing one of our patients while her within our power to help someone daughter went to take care of some we love finish their life’s work in of her own needs and get a few prethe manner they choose? If we cious moments outside, with the think about it, the journey of dying rest of the world. I was beginning is the last thing we will do as one to understand that a gesture, even of the living and in many ways it one as small as holding someone’s becomes the most important work hand could make a difference. I was we do. For many it is a time when also beginning to understand that I nostalgia takes over, looking back at couldn’t really change anything, but what used to be. It is a time when that too was okay. experiences are relived and feelings To paraphrase; God grant me are shared, often for the first time the wisdom to know the difference A patient is calmed by the attentiveness of a hospice chaplain. in a long time. Occasionally it is a between the things I can change and those I cannot. Rather than choosing to be- often with precious little time in which to time when bridges are rebuilt, sometimes come a member of Heartland Hospice’s team of do it. The blessing is that the caregivers who after many years of neglect. Dying is a natural caregivers—albeit as a volunteer coordinator I go with them are up to the task of working process and the longer we deflect or ignore the reality before us, the less time a dying am an ancillary member—through a strange alongside those they serve. series of circumstances and coincidences, hosThe sad part is that so few of us have person has to experience the fullness of that pice work seems to have chosen me. I have to any idea what hospice care is and who journey. Why don’t we do our best to make admit as I entered the world that so many of would benefit from it. The “who” question that last wish come true? My guess is that us either consciously or subconsciously shun, is the easy one to answer. Almost without fear is the answer. My hope is that we realize that help with more than just some minor trepidation I exception, everyone who is facing the end had to ask the question, “Why me?” I believe of life would benefit from hospice care, is available. In another life as a writer for the answer, at least in part, was to share my and almost anyone is eligible for hospice Flying magazine, I had the opportunity to fly experiences and the lessons I’ve learned with benefits. Medicare A and most major health a military jet trainer in conjunction with an as many others as possible. insurance plans provide hospice benefits article I was writing. I ended the article by saying, “If I were king for a day, every private Maybe the single most important lesson that offer 100% coverage. I have learned is that hospice care workers, Hospice caregivers know what too many pilot in the country would get a ride in the almost all of them, have become experts in of us in our culture seem to pleasantly ignore, Fouga.” When it comes to fun I stand by acquiring the wisdom to know what can and life is a finite gift and, unlike the elephant in that comment. It’s one heck of a ride. When cannot be changed and accepting that dif- the living room that everyone knows is there it comes to dealing with the most daunting ference in ways others can seldom imagine. but refuses to acknowledge, they not only challenge any of us will ever face, leaving What’s amazing to me, even though it has accept that truth, they embrace it. But they this life for whatever it is we believe comes become commonplace to countless nurses, embrace it with hope and passion. They talk next I say, if I were king for a day, everyone social workers, chaplains, and other members about the definition of hope being the belief in the country would get to spend some time of the hospice teams, is the seemingly endless that tomorrow can be better than today, even with a hospice worker. When I asked Maureen Hampton, staff dededication and compassion that overshadow as a life is coming to an end. They talk about everything they do. easing discomfort, be it physical, emotional, velopment coordinator for Heartland Hospice, Once a person has been diagnosed with or psychological, whether for the patient or what was so special about hospice care and an illness for which there is no cure and his their family. They talk about doing whatever those who do it she said, “It is such an honor or her time left in this life may be counted it takes to help those facing the end of life to be part of that experience. It’s an especially

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

intimate time in a person’s life, not unlike when we are born into the world. For everyone involved it’s another life changing event.” Of the caregivers themselves she could only say, “It is the ‘it’ factor, the way we deliver care, that desire to go the extra mile. It is the ultimate in nursing that goes beyond the medical care. It’s being able to take the time to hold someone’s hand. In some ways it is unexplainable.” But hospice care is still so much more. It’s being able to sit with someone who has just found out they have a terminal illness and they don’t know where to turn. It’s buying a forty-something cancer victim a wig and taking her out to her favorite restaurant so she can still live her life to the fullest. It’s a nurse stopping at the grocery store on her way to buy her patient her favorite candy. It’s providing a two hundred dollar gift certificate from Heartland’s Foundation so the family can buy food. It’s helping each patient enjoy every single day as much as they possibly can. It’s telling everyone in hospice care they are still special. From beginning to end, hospice care, more than anything else, is about giving time, priceless time to expertly guide those facing difficult, seemingly insurmountable decisions into making the best ones at the right time, especially when the choices aren’t easy. That’s where the wisdom of knowing when to accept the reality of what is becomes invaluable. It means taking the time to honestly ask the right questions that will lead a patient to the right conclusion. According to Laura Wright, administrator of Heartland’s Pittsburgh office, “Because they think a patient may not be ready to accept the truth, even among some health care professionals there is a reluctance to talk about end-of-life issues. Except that most of those patients we are trying to protect already know the truth; it just takes time to have that conversation.” Often, the benefits of taking the time to have that truthful conversation can be incalculable. Social worker Mindy Moss told me of one woman who, after learning of her terminal condition, had a 24-hour conversation with her husband, a conversation that otherwise might never have happened. It takes wisdom, too, to understand that no matter how compassionately and positively we approach the end of a life, grieving is also an inseparable part of the process. Again time is often the best, and maybe even the only ally. None know that better than bereavement counselors Evelyn Rubenstein and Cindy Grindel who work with patients and their families for as long as it takes, as they go through the process together.

As Cindy explains it, “When people are grieving they often feel as though they have entered a different world, one in which they feel out of place from everyone else. As the full impact of grief hits them it can be a scary place. Until you have been there, you can’t imagine how difficult grief is.” Cindy and Evelyn can imagine it. They know that how each of us grieves is unique and they know that you can’t pull someone through grief faster than they are able to go. They know how to help each of us learn what “normal” is in the grieving process and they know that the most important thing is to be willing to be there with them in their grief and take the time to listen to the stories of their lives. Yet, no matter whom I talked with in hospice care, even though they are not immune to the sadness of losing someone with whom they have become close, the underlying thread was had they known what being a caregiver in hospice was really like they would have left their old lives for hospice long ago. For the patients and families who have been the recipients of all their attention, words of thanks and donations to Heartland’s Foundation speak multitudes about the care they have received. I believe that when hospice care is initiated everyone involved is better for having had the experience. Giving hospice care to those we love may be one of the greatest gifts we can offer, but it does come at a price. The price we pay is that we give up our reality about what we wish were true and accept the reality that is. We meet them where they are and help them to find the hope that can be found in that reality. If dying is a natural process, a part of the circle of life, it is then something to be embraced rather than shunned. That doesn’t mean we need to go in search of death; it will find us when the time is right. It does mean, however, we should accept the fullness of the experience as it reveals itself to each of us and maybe more importantly, to those we love. If we get lost along the way, I’ve learned that hospice caregivers will be there to lead us down the right path. Consider Laura Wright’s advice, “Give hospice care serious consideration, even if it’s just for 24 hours.” I tend to believe she is right. Given the right people in the right circumstances, even one day can make a difference. What I have learned is that I have a new wish in my life. Heartland’s goal is that no one should ever have to die alone. My wish is that they reach their goal. n See ad on page 34. Fall 2007

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

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

RDP Studio Ltd.

SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONAL TRAINING 733 Washington Road Suite 107

Mt. Lebanon, PA

Easy access to parking and wheelchair accessible.

I personalize functional exercises for limiting conditions.

Arthritis Autoimmune Balance Issues Neuromuscular Musculoskeletal Joint Replacement

Rose Popovitch

Training is provided one-on-one in my private studio, where the focus is on you and you alone.

I may be able to help you. www.rdp-studio.com 412.818.1599 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

www.thelittlegym.com

FALL 2007 Semester begins August 27th! Enroll today!

Pittsburgh-South Hills, PA Donaldson’s Crossroads 3909 Washington Rd McMurray, PA 15317 724-941-0100 www.tlgpittsburgh-southhillspa.com

Fitting care for end-of-life

750 Holiday Drive | Foster Plaza 9, Ste. 110 Pittsburgh, PA 15220 | 1-800-497-0575 hcr-manorcare.com

We add comfort for the entire family. During the final months of life, our hospice program delivers compassionate care right in the patient’s home. And we personalize our services to fit the family’s needs. From expert pain management…to counseling…to simply listening, our highly trained staff brings comfort. Call for details.

The Little Gym Turns Two

Justin Polk, Marketing Manager, The Little Gym In April, The Little Gym of Pittsburgh celebrated its second

anniversary! The Little Gym, located in Donaldson’s Crossroads in McMurray, provides a safe, nurturing environment for its students to learn and grow. Its summer, fall, and winter/spring programs include non-competitive grade school gymnastics, pre-Kindergarten gymnastics, sports skill development class, non-contact karate, and parent/child classes. Entrepreneur Magazine voted The Little Gym the number one children’s fitness program for 2007. The Little Gym stresses learning at your own pace—it’s about children trying their best, not being the best. The programs help children develop physically, socially, emotionally, and perceptually. The Little Gym’s progressive physical development programs promote coordination, balance, rhythm, and flexibility. Children are encouraged to be playful and express themselves freely—without fear of failure. Whether it’s meeting new friends, sharing high fives, moving to exciting music, or reaching for a roomful of bubbles, the opportunity to learn is always at hand. A non-competitive environment allows children to take risks, and The Little Gym rewards individual effort with consistent, positive feedback. The success gained will build the self-confidence and self-esteem children need and deserve. The experiences through these programs should provide children with the confidence to be all they can be and do all they can do to be happy and fulfilled. The Little Gym would like to thank its 1500 members, 500 of whom are Upper St. Clair residents, for their continued support. n See ad above.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Amelia Pare’ M.D. Board Certifed Plastic Surgeon Harvard Educated - UCLA Trained

Specializing in: • Breast Surgery — featuring Limited Incision Breast Augmentation • Facelift Surgery • Nose Surgery • Liposuction • Abdominoplasty • Eyelid Surgery Summerfield Commons, Suite 1121 2535 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241 www.pittsburghplasticsurgery.net www.amypare.com

412-831-2554

Taylor Ackerman

Upper St. Clair Freshman Member of the Dance Workshop by Shari SuperStars & Dream Team Award Winning Dance Soloist, Regional and National

Celebrating 16 Years of Serving the South Hills Kaitlynn Kopach

Carson Murphy

Upper St. Clair graduate, Class of 2007 USC Dance Team Member Dance Workshop by Shari SuperStars Graduate

Upper St. Clair Sophomore USC Dance Team Member, 2007 Member of the Dance Workshop by Shari SuperStars

Dancing for a Difference

Shari Shriver Opfermann Owner and Director, Dance Workshop by Shari Upper St. Clair High School Alumna BA in Dance from Point Park University 2006 Inductee into the Upper St. Clair Arts Hall of Fame Choreographer – 2007 Upper St. Clair Spring Musical, “Into the Woods” Member of Dance Masters of America Choreographer and Director of the awardwinning Dance Workshop by Shari “SuperStars” Guest Instructor at National Dance Camps Director of the “Dream Team” Dancers – Radio Disney featured Dance Team

. . This catch-phrase describes our two-fold mission in providing top-quality dance instruction, while also allowing our staff and students to have the opportunity to use their talents in a positive way to benefit the community. Just since 2003, we have raised nearly $40,000 for organizations such as Make A Wish, Gilda’s Club, The Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and the Leukemia Society.

Sierra Sailor

Upper St. Clair Freshman USC Dance Team Member, 2007 Member of Dance Workshop by Shari SuperStars & Dream Team

REGISTER NOW for Fall Classes • 412-884-5099 • www.danceworkshopbyshari.com Request your copy of “Asking the Right Questions When Choosing a Dance Studio”

USC_magazine_ad_0607.pmd

6/19/2007, 4:40 PM

History of Plastic Surgery Amelia Pare´, M.D. After a certain level of technical skill is achieved, science and art tend to coalesce in esthetics, plasticity and form. —Albert Einstein The word plastic is derived from the Greek meaning to mold or

give form. With all of the media attention focused on the cosmetic aspect of our training, we forget about the humble origins of this medical art. Plastic surgery can be traced back to 3000 B.C in Egypt. Facial acids and oils were used for skin care. In some cultures the entire nose would be removed as a punishment. Plastic surgeons responded by transferring skin from the forearm or forehead to reconstruct the entire nose. All of these surgeries were done before anesthesia was available. With the advent of suturing, plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Murray sutured the blood vessels of a kidney donated from one brother to the other. This was the first successful kidney transplant and Dr Murray’s efforts were awarded the Nobel Prize in 1990. Within the last ten years, entire hands and portions of the face have been transplanted. Today, plastic surgeons are called upon to repair cleft lips, graft burns, heal wounds, reconstruct breasts after cancer, remodel the skull, make new ears, repair tendon injuries, perform “mommy makeovers,” and perform numerous other procedures. But the plastic surgeon is not alone. There must be a partnership between the patient and the surgeon. Communication is important to build trust and achieve realistic goals together. All surgical patients are humbled by their vulnerability. As a plastic surgeon, I am amazed every day by the determination and courage of my patients and I am grateful to be a part of their lives.

Plastic surgery began as a reconstructive art and has emerged as a leading specialty in the restoration of the lives of patients that have been plagued with illness, trauma, and cancer. All of these patients must possess courage. General Patton said, “If we generally accept the definition of bravery as a quality which knows not fear, I have never seen a brave man. All men are frightened. The more intelligent they are, the more frightened. The courageous man is one who forces himself, in spite of his fear, to carry on.” With valor there is hope. Courage manifests itself in many ways in our daily lives and challenges us to be better people. Plastic surgery has become a part of our lives. Plastic surgery does include well-publicized facelifts, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation. Plastic surgery also includes cutting edge science with stem cell research. Plastic surgery includes rebuilding bodies riddled with cancer and deformed by prominent ears or a cleft lip. The courage of the patient and the skill of the surgeon are both required to build a realistic outcome in every form of plastic surgery. n Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point. —C.S. Lewis

Dr. Amelia Pare´, USC resident, is a board certified plastic surgeon. Her offices are located in Upper St. Clair’s Summerfield Commons. See ad on page 34. Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Yoga, a Respite for Moms Erin Gibson Allen In his book, Light on Life, yoga guru

yoga practice, the yoga student is present B.K.S. Iyengar reflects, “The life of a house- mentally as well as physically.” holder is difficult, and it always has been.” Roteman, who worked in information In its early beginnings, yoga students technologies before her children were were segregated from society in order to born, feels, however, that mothers want dedicate their entire lives to the practice. In more than a quiet mind. “Many mothers recent history, however, yoga has become who are staying home with their children a way for people who are fully engaged have chosen to set aside demanding cawith society to cope with stress. Iyengar, reers that are mentally challenging. We a proponent of combining yoga with the become consumed with caring for our demands of having a family and managing children, which is rewarding in countless a house, believes stress is not a new phe- ways. However, in my own experience my nomenon. “Most of us encounter hardship mind started to feel a little mushy, for lack and suffering, and many are plagued by of a better word. Yoga requires the use of physical and emotional pain, stress, sad- your intelligence in a way that I have not ness, loneliness, and anxiety. While we experienced with other forms of exercise. often think of these as the problems caused I feel that I am not only exercising my by the demands of modern life, human life body, but also my mind.” Because properly has always had the same hardships and understanding and performing yoga asanas the same challenges—making a living, (poses) requires thoughtful and focused raising a family, and finding meaning and analysis, yoga can serve as a new intellecpurpose.” tual challenge for moms. Yoga’s popularity is on the rise. In 2005, Frankie Kunselman, an attorney and a study commissioned by Yoga Journal indi- Upper St. Clair mother of two, regularly cated that 16.5 million people (7.5% of U.S. takes an evening yoga class on her way adults) practice yoga, an increase of 5.6% home from the office. She agrees that from the year before and 43% from 2002. yoga helps her both stay strong despite Another 25 million people said they plan to her relatively sedentary workday and try yoga within the next 12 months. relieve the stress of parenting. “As a busy Mothers make up a large part of the mom I appreciate the two-fold benefits a population turning to yoga to find both yoga practice provides to me. I am able to physical exercise and mental release. Britt build core physical body strength and bone Roteman, a South Hills mother and yoga density, while at the same time improving instructor at LaPomponnee in Mt. my mental outlook Lebanon, agrees by decreasing stress that yoga provides levels.” Kunselman a healthy outlet for arrives at home more moms consumed relaxed, ready to deal with caring for with homework and others and managhousehold tasks. ing a house. “Many How exactly stay-at-home moms does yoga help balstruggle to carve ance a stressed out out time for themor distracted mom? selves. When they do Roteman explains oat) avasana (B . n a h rd A finally get a chance to that part of the n works o y strength Roma Roy help build core bod work out, their minds secret is that while pose to are racing with other practicing yoga, the student’s mind is things they need to be doing. Unlike fully occupied. “Learning to focus your atmany other exercise regimes, yoga bridges tention to your breath and specific muscles into everyday life. To get the most out of a during an asana requires that the student

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Frankie Kunselman practice s Vira (Warrior II) pose during even bhadrasana II ing yoga class.

let go of the to-do lists and kids’ schedules. The student becomes completely ‘in the moment.’ Even when a yoga practitioner is working very hard physically to hold a pose, her mind can become very peaceful. Through yoga, students can gain strength and confidence physically, while being centered mentally.” Learning to maintain a peaceful outlook while exerting oneself is a valuable side effect of yoga. In addition to its many mental benefi ts, yoga students tout the physical rigors of yoga as well. Despite its reputation of simply being a method of stretching, yoga can be, depending on how it’s practiced, quite strenuous. Kunselman explains, “It is surprising when you first begin your practice, how physically challenging yoga is when done correctly. In the beginning I had a tendency to do what my instructor referred to as ‘polite’ yoga. This is getting only slightly into a pose, or being tentative. When you push yourself to do all of the elements of each pose correctly it takes serious mental concentration and physical strength.” Roteman often finds herself encouraging her mom friends to give yoga a try. “Many times people are reluctant to try yoga because they feel that they are not flexible enough or do not have the required balance.” In her experience, many people associate yoga with highly flexible people contorting their bodies into unbelievable positions, which she feels is an unfair perception of yoga. “The beauty of yoga is that it can be adapted to the individual. Through the use of props, yoga can be modified to fit a person’s strengths and limitations.”

Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center Something for Everyone! • Ice Hockey Classes and Learn to Skate Programs • Birthday Parties - Public & Private packages

The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts

1900 Painters Run Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241 412-257-2000 www.thomasdance.com ! dance@thomasdance.com evels All L -18! s! 2 Ages ool Classe ay d h Presc Email To r ! o Call ormation f n For I

• Developmental Ice Hockey League 5—8 and 9—12 year old players • Adult Night Out-Saturdays 8pm • Play Date on ice every Thursday 9—11 am begins 9/6/07 • Private Ice Rentals & Broomball • Room rentals

Registration for Fall Classes:

Thursday, August 23 & Wednesday, Sept. 5 4–8 p.m.

Offering the Following: Hip Hop Ballet Ask about our Pointe Jazz Robinson Studio! Gymnastics Tap 412-787-7686 Lyrical Modern

• Friday Night Skates 8—11 pm, Family Skates Sunday Afternoon, Fun Friday Skate 4:40 pm—6 pm.

412-561-4363 www.mtlebanon.org

Yoga, a Respite for Moms Continued from page 36

Yoga students often find that when they finish their practice and step off of the mat, they not only feel stronger and more relaxed, but more attentive. Roteman explains, “Learning to be present is one of the greatest benefits of yoga. It can enhance the rest of your day with your children.” Iyengar, a parent himself, explains, “Yoga allows you to rediscover a sense of wholeness in your life, where you do not feel like you are constantly trying to fit the broken pieces together.” If stress goes hand in hand with managing a household, practicing yoga can benefit hard-working mothers determined to hold it all together. n Erin Allen teaches yoga with Britt Roteman through Yoga Priere, a group of teachers that offer classes at LaPomponnee in Mt. Lebanon. More information is available at www.yogapriere.com. Erin and Britt can be reached through this site, and are happy to answer any questions about yoga. See ad on this page.

Yoga Priere Yoga at La Pomponnee 659 Washington Road Mt. Lebanon, PA We are a team of well-trained instructors providing quality instruction in a small class setting. See our website for details!

www.yogapriere.com Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Botox® or Restylane®? Simona Pautler, MD, FACS Botox® and Restylane® are injectable substances offered in several plastic

surgical and dermatological practices. As office procedures they are fast and effective, with little downtime. Patients regard them as “quick-fixes” to look their very best in preparation for reunions, parties, or weddings. These rejuvenators work completely differently and are not interchangeable. A basic understanding of the mechanism of action of Botox® and Restylane® and their appropriate uses can help patients get the most from each treatment. Botox® is an FDA approved substance derived from a micro-organism that must be reconstituted with saline solution and then refrigerated. It is injected into muscle, not a wrinkle. Its chemical property is to bind to certain receptors in the muscle and keep it from contracting for up to four months. The corrugator muscles sit under the inner half of the eyebrows and cause the vertical lines between the brows to appear when we scowl. Botox® injected into these muscles eliminates their contraction and the vertical lines soften and occasionally disappear. The frontalis muscle of the forehead lifts your brows up and creates horizontal lines. By blocking its contraction, Botox® can smooth

the forehead and minimize these lines. Finally, the orbicularis oculi is the circular muscle around the eye that enables the squinting that causes crow’s feet. When injected into select fibers of this muscle, squinting can be weakened to soften crow’s feet. Botox® is purely for use in muscle and does not plump up skin or create any lift. The effacement of facial wrinkles is a secondary, but desired effect. It must be injected carefully and not excessively, and by someone who understands delicate facial musculature. Complications are rare and, if they do occur, are temporary. Botox® lasts about 14 to 16 weeks, and repeat treatments every three to four months are needed to maintain the benefits of this anti-aging substance. Restylane®, a clear hyaluronic acid gel derived from a micro-organism and FDA approved, comes packaged in small sterile syringes and needs no refrigeration. Restylane® is a filler used to “plump” wrinkles and depressions caused by aging and has no effect on muscle action. It is most commonly injected into the lips to impart a fuller and more youthful look, or into the nasolabial folds (the ones that run from our nose to the corner of our mouths) to soften signs of aging. Other uses are under the lower

eyelids to soften the look of “bags” and in the corner of our mouths to give a subtle upturn. Restylane® can also improve the look of certain scars or other soft tissue deficits on the face. Restylane® lasts between three to six months depending on what part of the face it is injected. As with Botox®, the injections require quite a bit of skill and experience. One should seek out a practitioner familiar with Restylane® who performs injections on a frequent basis. Complications are unusual and temporary. Before an injection, you should avoid using ibuprofen and aspirin, which could increase your risk of bruising (the most common side effect), along with transient redness and swelling. Many practitioners use Botox® together with Restylane® as anti-aging tools without the need for surgery. Combined with good skincare, lots of water, exercise, and plenty of sleep, these two injectables can help many of us concerned with looking our best avoid “the knife” for a very long time. n Dr. Pautler, a board certified plastic surgeon offering a full range of aesthetic procedures, is a USC resident and has offices in McMurray. See ad on page 39.

Feel the Glow Connie Wilson, Owner, Serenity Day Spa & Salon Your skin needs to be pampered just like the rest of your

body. Get rid of the flaking, rough skin and bring back the beautiful, smooth skin that you were born with. A facial is a great way to restore a healthy glow to dry, washed out, or oily skin. Facials should consist of deep cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and hydration. First, deep cleansing is important to keep the pores clean. Cleansing products should be chemical free. Beware of soaps as they can deplete your face of its natural oils and clog the pores. Second, exfoliate. Exfoliation is vital for good skin care. Exfoliation will strip away the build up of cells and dead skin in order to reveal your smooth silky appearance. Third, nourish the skin with a great moisturizer. Your skin needs extra vitamins and nutrients found within a good moisturizer. Always protect your skin with a good sun block. This will reduce the signs of aging and wrinkles. Talk to a licensed professional about what kind of skin care regime is best for you and your skin. Together you can find the perfect combination of treatment and products to make your skin look and feel its best. Don’t forget to exercise. Exercise increases the blood flow, which brings more nutrients to the skin and gives you that fresh glow, too. 38

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

But remember to shower as soon as you have finished to break down the buildup of oils and perspiration. And lastly, check for suspicious looking bumps, moles, or lesions that could lead to cancer. The more familiar you are with your skin, the better equipped you are to notice any changes or abnormalities. Drink plenty of water. Because the skin is the largest organ in the body, we must replenish our water intake to maintain beautiful looking skin. Diet is essential for healthy skin. Remember to give your body the nutrients it needs to heal itself. Choose foods filled with vitamin C and E. For example, choose blueberries or strawberries. They are excellent for skin care as well as for overall health. Many times you can change the appearance of your skin just by paying attention to and modifying your food and water intake. When you are healthy, you feel better and when you feel better, your body naturally looks better. Great skin can be achieved with the proper skin care regimens and dedication! n Serenity Day Spa & Salon, a full service day spa and hair salon, is located in neighboring Bridgeville. See ad on page 37.

Valley Brook Family Dental Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD

Let us enhance your smile with: Cosmetic Bonding & Veneers Ceramic Crowns Dentures & Non-Metal Partials Advanced Whitening Laser Cavity Detection Laser Based Gum Therapy Dental Implants to Replace Teeth or Anchor Dentures PLUS: Convenient Hours Modern Child Friendly Office Most Insurances Accepted Financing Available

Peters Town Center 180 Gallery Drive, McMurray PA 15317 (Adjacent to Festival Foods) www.valleybrookdental.com

(724) 942-8982

the hair affair ®, created by Hairdreams, is the latest method for genuine hair extension and thickening and now makes your hair dreams come true even faster. Recommended by the current Hairdressing World Team Champions. Make your dream of powerful, glossy and smooth beautiful hair come true. Fast, simple and safe. Stephen Szabo Salon will be pleased to advise you.

3101 Washington Road • McMurray • 724-941-4062

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Plastic Surgical Plastic Surgical Associates Associates ofof Pittsburgh Pittsburgh RobertRobert W. Bragdon, W. Bragdon, M.D., F.A.C.S. M.D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified in PlasticinSurgery Board Certified Plastic Surgery CompleteComplete plastic surgical cosmeticcosmetic (breast (breast plastic services surgical including services including augmentation-silicone and saline, tummy tuck, augmentation-silicone andfacelift, saline,liposuction, facelift, liposuction, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty) reconstructive, skin care,skin BOTOX Restylane. rhinoplasty) reconstructive, care, and BOTOX and Restylane.

St. ClairSt. Hospital Office Office Clair Hospital 1050 Bower Road, 105 1050Hill Bower HillSuite Road, Suite 105 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 412.572.6164 412.572.6164 West Penn Hospital Office Office West Penn Hospital 4815 Liberty Suite 235 4815 Ave, Liberty Ave, Suite 235 Pittsburgh, PA 15224 Pittsburgh, PA 15224 412.681.0586 412.681.0586 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

249-4 UpperStClair7.5x9fc

7/3/07

11:40 AM

Page 1

IT’S TIME WE REDEFINED H O N O R S T U D E N T. Today’s world demands a definition that encompasses more than academic success. It requires a “transcript” that demonstrates the ability to do the right thing as well as the smart thing. A high grade point average alone will not guarantee a successful career or a purposeful life. This is the very reason why California University of Pennsylvania has, for more than 150 years, dedicated itself to preparing students for both fulfilling careers and meaningful lives. We do more than pay lip service to our core values of integrity, civility and responsibility. We integrate them into the classroom, campus activities and everyday student life. These values are fostered by faculty who devote time and personal attention to help motivate, inspire and bring out the best in every man and woman who studies here. So our students graduate with more than academic kudos and a diploma to show for their efforts. They graduate with a different degree of honor. For livelihood. And for life. That is our mission and our difference. Building Character. Building Careers.

www.cup.edu A proud member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

E N G I N E E R I N G G R A D U AT E | A RT I S T | R I S K TA K E R

FEAR NOTHING

BUT A CLOSED MIND You have the confidence to offer new ideas. To embrace change. To create something out of nothing. Some people call that risky. You call it rewarding.

w w w. s e t o n h i l l . e d u

Beyond Primary Care Becca Baker, Associate Director of Media Relations, Seton Hill University Photo credit: Sean Stipp

Seton Hill’s physician assistant program faculty members spend

their days connecting people to what they need. As certified clinically practicing physician assistants, they help the poor, the rural, the elderly, the incarcerated— the underserved and the marginalized—to live safer, healthier lives. As professors, they help students get from Practicing physician assistant and Seton Hill where they are now to where physician assistant program director they want to go, and make Cathy Shallenberger teaches students sure they arrive fully prehow to interpret a chest X-ray. pared. And as people who, according to program director Cathy Shallenberger, believe themselves to be “privileged to be allowed to take care of patients,” the physician assistant faculty understand that blessings, as well as challenges, pass through them from both sides. Certified physician assistants (PAs) often work in medically underserved areas, and can provide 85% of the same services as primary care physicians—handling acute cases as well as chronic illnesses, writing prescriptions, and providing both short-term and long-term care. Seton Hill’s combined bachelor of science/master of science degree in physician assistant is dedicated to educating students for careers as clinically competent PAs who deliver patient-centered care that is ethically sound. 42

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Seton Hill University’s Physician Assistant professors provide medical services to the underserved while teaching students to do the same.

The program’s special emphasis is on areas of medical underservice and the specific needs of women and the elderly. “They [students] see us working in the fields we focus on,” says Shallenberger, who in addition to serving as Seton Hill’s physician assistant program director and associate professor, is a physician assistant at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh. “Since 100% of the PA faculty at Seton Hill are licensed practicing physician assistants serving vulnerable populations, we can share through our ongoing experiences with patients why it is especially important to deliver care to those in need.” Seton Hill alumna Merinda Cooper took the physician assistant program’s focus on the underserved to heart. After graduating from Seton Hill she became a practicing physician assistant and has participated in medical mission trips to Chile and Kenya. “I remember one child in particular who came to our clinic very ill,” she says. “We treated him with an antibiotic and gave him some oral rehydration solution and the next day he was 100% better. The mother was so grateful. I can still see the smiles on the faces of the Practicing physician assistant and people after I treated them. It is so Seton Hill associate professor rewarding to be able to help people Richard Hutchinson examines who desperately need medical care, a patient in Uniontown Hospital’s emergency room. which is why I went into medicine in the first place.” Continued on page 77

Funding a College Education Nathan Kauffman, CFP® Helping a child or grandchild to attend college is a noble goal, but it can also be a very expensive one! In fact, funding a college

education may be one of the largest expenses you encounter. The earlier you have a funding plan in place, the better. But let’s talk about some available sources of money to fund higher education.

College funding typically comes from one or more of the following sources: • Personal assets. • Merit-based aid—High achieving students can earn scholarships for excelling in academics, athletics, music, or other fields. • Need-based aid—The government, education institutions, and other organizations offer aid to students who otherwise cannot afford an education. Often, families with substantial income and/or assets are not eligible to receive this type of assistance. • Loans—When the other sources do not provide adequate funding, student loans often cover the shortfall. Depending on the type of loan, payments may be postponed until degree completion. Also, the interest on these loans is often tax-deductible.

Of these funding sources, the one that allows you to exercise the greatest control while offering the best opportunity to reach your goal of helping your student is your own personal assets. Many parents and grandparents begin a savings program while the child is quite young, and that definitely can help make college expenses more manageable. Various savings vehicles can be used; however, several types of accounts have been specifically designed to assist in your college savings efforts. One of the most popular college savings vehicles for college education is the 529 Plan. Why the name? This type of savings plan is named after section 529 of the Federal Tax Code in which it is described. Here’s the

best part—a 529 Plan provides tax incentives, allows substantial contributions, has limited impact on financial aid, and allows the account owner (usually a parent or grandparent) to retain control of the account. There are two types of 529 Plans: the 529 Prepaid Tuition Plan and the 529 Savings Plan. The 529 Prepaid Tuition Plan allows the account owner to purchase college tuition in advance at today’s prices. Your investment will keep pace with the cost of tuition no matter what tuition grows to later. The downside to this type of investment is that the return is limited to the increase in tuition. Other investments may outperform this return. A second type of the 529 Plan, the 529 Savings Plan, is an investment savings plan. Mutual funds and/or age-based portfolios can be purchased inside these accounts. The age-based portfolios have an evolving asset allocation. For example, a typical age-based portfolio will comprise primarily growth equity securities when the beneficiary of the account is young. As the student approaches college age, fixed income investments are introduced to the portfolio to provide stability and maintain principal. Upon the student’s reaching college age, an age-based portfolio will typically convert to short-term bonds and money market funds to provide liquidity. Are 529 Plans the right option for you? Is your college funding plan in good shape? There are online resources that can help you with these and other college funding questions; or better yet, contact your financial advisor for more details on the various funding opportunities available for your student. n Nathan Kauffman works in the Upper St. Clair office of Hefren-Tillotson, Pittsburgh’s oldest and largest family-owned financial planning firm. If you are interested in learning more about 529 Plans or other college funding options, contact him at 412-833-5777. See ad on this page. Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Shady Side Academy Offers Five-Day Boarding Program for High School Students Melinda Miller, Director of Communications, Shady Side Academy

Established in 88 , Shady Side Academy

is a pre-K through 12 school located on three campuses in Pittsburgh. In addition to its dayschool, Shady Side Academy offers a five-day boarding program for students in grades nine through 12. Students live on campus from Sunday evening through Friday afternoon and spend weekends at home. The tradition of five-day boarding, begun eight decades ago, continues today with a focus on helping senior school students develop the study and living skills they need to succeed in college. Shady Side Academy boarding students come from as close as Squirrel Hill and as far as Morgantown, West Virginia, and East Liverpool, Ohio. “The easy part about going to college [for independent school students] is the academic transition,” explains Dr. Jeff Suzik, director of the school’s residential life. “The harder part, interestingly enough, is the social transition. The Academy’s five-day boarding program helps students get ready for both.” “Boarding is not just for those families who live too far to make the commute to and from school twice a day,” explains Tom Southard, president. “Boarding is about providing our students with some of the life-skills they need to succeed in college—learning to live with different kinds of people in a diverse atmosphere, learning to keep priorities straight and focus on academics, while also taking the time to have some fun with your friends in the dorm.

At the request of the boarding students, the Our students develop independence while still remaining close to home and family. Our program is also taking a more formal approach boarding students really have a ‘leg-up’ on the to teaching life skills to its boarding students. college transition because of their boarding This past spring, UPMC director of sports medicine nutrition Leslie Bonci was invited experiences.” Statistics from The Association of Boarding to campus to present a lecture on personal Schools bear these views out, reporting that health, well-being, and diet, and another lecture boarding students spend almost twice as much on time management and economic budgettime pursuing homework assignments as their keeping is planned for the boarders this fall. Parents of boarders tell the academy how day- and public-school-student counterparts. Boarding students also indicate that on average much more independent their children have they participate in more extracurricular activi- become—how self-sufficient and confident ties and feel that they live amongst a group of after boarding for a year. Suzik also reports that motivated peers, as cited in The Truth About families of boarding students feel as if everyone’s time is more productive; students can spend Boarding School Report. “If we can help our students to learn to time on academics rather than on commutmanage their time, they’re better prepared ing. Parents are encouraged to visit during the to function independently when they go to school-week. Weekends can be spent on quality college. At the academy, students are in a safe family time for everyone. The school week can and nurturing environment. But, because be especially hectic. During winter term for they’re not at home, they begin to learn the example, between athletics and play rehearsals, independent living skills necessary to succeed students can potentially be on campus from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. in college,” explains Southard. “There’s so much positive energy and As students move through the boarding program, they also learn how to tap into on-campus momentum in the program. We used every room available in the girls’ dorm this past year resources. With two with more girls on hours of mandatory campus in 2006study in the dorms 07 than we’ve had every night and an for about ten years. active adult presBoy numbers have ence, boarders have been up, too, but guaranteed access the boys’ residence to an atmosphere hall is a much larger that’s conducive facility.” to study. TeachF i v e - d a y ers representing boarding offers an most subject areas opportunity for taught at Shady personal and acaSide reside either demic development. in the dorms or There are fewer than in on-campus 70 five-day boarding housing. programs in North H o w e v e r, America. Shady Side living on camShady Side Ac ademy boarding Academy’s boarders students pus isn’t just a learn self reliance, routine of classes, athletics, homework, and sleep. “The boarders get to know each study skills, cooperation, and new perspecother really well. They help each other de- tives while still getting plenty of time at home velop as people, and understand each other’s with family. “What teenager wouldn’t apprecistrengths and weaknesses. They also learn to ate the extra sleep that comes with eliminating create their own fun. A Prefect will suggest a that daily commute to and from school?” bowling or swimming expedition or a trip to joked Southard. “Our program offers the best a Pens or Pirates game. Boarders never feel of both worlds, five days at school, two days ‘stuck’ on campus because they go home on at home.” n the weekends,” explains Suzik. See ad on page 45.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

T H ITNHKI N K T TH H II N NK K THINK

beyond beyond beyond beyond

CLHEANLGL E NTGHEE ITRHIENI T R EILNLTEECLT. L E C T. CHAL C H A L L E N G E T H E I R I N T E L L E C T. Imagine your region’s school. Here, young grades Pre-K through Imagine enrolled young people in people grades in Pre-K through C H Ayour L Lchild EN Gchild E inenrolled TtheHregion’s EinIthe Rlargest I Nindependent Tlargest E L Lindependent Eschool. C T.Here,

12 are offered enriching academic, athletic and arts opportunities atyoung three people age-specific campuses. Students work closely with 12 are offered enriching academic, athleticlargest and arts opportunities at three age-specific campuses. Students closely with Imagine your child enrolled in the region’s independent school. Here, in grades Pre-K work through Imagine your child enrolled in the region’s largest independent school. Here, young people in grades Pre-K through experienced, caring teachers who encourage responsible development of mind and character. Our five-day boarding for experienced, caring teachers who encourage responsible development of mind and character. Our five-day boarding program, for 12 are offered enriching academic, athletic and arts opportunities at three age-specific campuses. Students work closely withprogram, 12 are offered enriching academic, athletic and arts opportunities at three age-specific campuses. Students work closely with students in grades 9-12, fostersofa responsible sense of independence and offers enhanced opportunities study. yourfor child’s students in grades 9-12, fosters aencourage sense independence and offersof enhanced opportunities forfive-day study. for Pique yourPique child’s experienced, caring teachers who development mind and character. Our boarding program, Imagine your enrolled the region’s largest independent school. Here,character. young people in grades Pre-Kprogram, through for experienced, caringchild teachers whoinencourage responsible development of mind and Our five-day boarding interest interest today. students gradestoday. 9-12, fosters a senseathletic of independence and offers enhanced for study. Pique your work child’s 12 arein academic, and arts opportunities at three opportunities age-specific campuses. Students students inoffered grades enriching 9-12, fosters a sense of independence and offers enhanced opportunities for study. Pique your child’sclosely with interest today. caring teachers who encourage responsible development of mind and character. Our five-day boarding program, for experienced, interestSide today. Shady Side isAcademy is now admissions accepting admissions applications for the 2008-2009 school year, Shady Academy now accepting applications for the 2008-2009 school year, students in 9-12, fosters a independence offers enhanced opportunities and wegrades have in sense certain grades for2007. thefor fallCome ofand 2007. Come explore the possibilities. for study. Pique your child’s and weSide have limited openings inopenings certain admissions grades forof the fall of explore the possibilities. Shady Academy is limited now accepting applications the 2008-2009 school year, Shady Side Academy is now accepting admissions applications for the 2008-2009 school year, interest today. We look forward to meeting you. We forward to meeting you. andlook we have limited openings in certain grades for the fall of 2007. Come explore the possibilities. and we have limited openings in certain grades for the fall of 2007. Come explore the possibilities. We look forward to meeting you. We look forward to meetingisyou. Shady Side Academy now accepting admissions applications for the 2008-2009 school year, 412.968.3206 WWW .inSHADYSIDEACADEMY . ORG FU 412.968.3206 WWW .openings SHADYSIDEACADEMY . ORG R E A C H FRUERATCHHE R . RTHER . and we have limited certain grades for the fall of 2007. Come explore the possibilities.

C H A L L E N G E T H E I R I N T E L L E C T.

SHA S H A DY S IDY DESIDE A cademy A cademy SS H A DY S I H A DY S I D DE E

A Academy cademy S H A DY .. S I D E Academy

412.968.3206 WWW .. SHADYSIDEACADEMY .. ORG We look forward to meeting you. 412.968.3206 WWW SHADYSIDEACADEMY ORG

412.968.3206

REACH FURTHER REACH FURTHER

WWW . SHADYSIDEACADEMY . ORG

Private Tutoring

REACH FURTHER .

College Admissions & Financial Aid Planning

Where to start?

PA-Certified and experienced teachers available to tutor K-12+ students

✔ Personal College Guidance

o Math o Reading o Science o English o Foreign Language o SAT/ACT

✔ Student & Parent Seminars ✔ Career Advising & Assessments ✔ College Search & Selection ✔ Essay/Interviewing Preparation

AMAZING RESULTS!

✔ Student Profile & Resume Building

We Can Come To You. Call Angela at

412-221-3505

Tutoring, Inc.

✔ Full Financial Aid Services

ENROLLING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS Enroll and receive a FREE 36-hour SAT prep course! ($380 value)

157 Waterdam Rd | Suite 280 | McMurray, PA 15317 www.bridgethotrum.com

724-942-7680

Educating Parents, Empowering Students Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Intelligent

Like you, Chatham College for Women at Chatham University has its eye on the future. We see a globally motivated, environmentally sensitive culture, great challenges, and women prepared to meet them. Chatham women. Strengthened by a campus community that is empowering, confidence-building and intellectually stimulating. Stretched by interactive, intimate classes and involved professors. Enriched by study abroad, diverse learning experiences, and deep friendships. No wonder so many remarkable women find themselves here.

Artistic Future-minded Adventurous Athletic Global

CHATHAM ADVANTAGES • SAT/ACT optional admissions policy for first-year students. • Every first-year student is provided with a new Hewlett Packard Compaq tc 4200 tablet PC for use throughout our wireless campus. • Nearly 95% of Chatham undergraduate students receive some form of merit or need-based scholarship. • All students have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Chatham in as few as five years. • Students may cross-register with Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, with free shuttle service between campuses.

Unique Confident Ever-changing

WE ARE YOU chatham.edu

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

Top Ten Strengths and Experiences Colleges Look for in High School Students Bridget Hotrum, Owner, College Bound Admissions Academy Standardized test scores have re-emerged as the baseline that larger

colleges and universities use to eliminate applicants whose scores are too low. With the recent flood of applications, colleges have had to rely on test scores to weed out less qualified applicants. “Great SAT scores won’t get you in, but lousy ones will keep you out,” says Mark Sklarow, IECA executive director. “They’ve created a floor.” The smaller the college, the less important SAT scores are. Conversely, essays remain important at smaller colleges, but less important than at larger universities. These conclusions are based on a new survey of college admission consultants, conducted by the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). “With selective schools, the first cut-off is standardized testing,” says an IECA member. “When you reach the particular bar for testing, then everything else is weighed.” Number one on the list, for the third straight year, is a rigorous high school curriculum that challenges students and may include AP or IB classes. Moving up the top ten list over the last three years (from #8 to #5) are letters of recommendation. Colleges do want to know what teachers are saying about the applicant. This year’s survey indicated teacher recommendations to be more important than those from clergy, counselors, or employers. Supplemental recommendations have dropped off the list as many colleges are suspect of the authenticity of these. New to the list is a demonstration of intellectual curiosity. Colleges want students who exhibit a love of learning. “Grades, course selection, and great ACT test scores are important,” says IECA member Joan Tager. “Also, meaningful use of time, community service that has substance (not just envelope stuffing), and summer activities that the student enjoys and excites them are all important.” 46

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Top Ten Strengths and Experiences 1. A rigorous high school curriculum that challenges the student and may include AP or IB classes. 2. Grades that represent strong effort and an upward trend. However, slightly lower grades in a rigorous program are preferred to all A’s in less challenging coursework. 3. Solid scores on standardized tests (SAT, ACT). These should be consistent with high school performance. 4. Passionate involvement in a few activities, demonstrating leadership and initiative. Depth, not breadth, of experience is most important. 5. Letters of recommendation from teachers and guidance counselors that give evidence of integrity, special skills, positive character traits, and an interest in learning. 6. Special talents or experiences that will contribute to an interesting and well-rounded student body. 7. A well-written essay that provides insight into the student’s personality, values, and goals. The application essay should be thoughtful and highly personal. It should demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing. 8. Demonstrated enthusiasm, often exhibited by campus visits and an interview, showing an interest toward attending the college. 9. Out of school experiences, including work and community service that illustrate responsibility, dedication, and development of areas of interest. 10. Demonstrated intellectual curiosity through reading, school, and leisure pursuits, and more. n See ad on page 45

Montessori Internationale T h e 11 t h a n nu a l M o n t e s s o r i Cynthia Evans and Beverly Crawford visInternationale was held at Mt. Lebanon ited Trax Farms to choose the finest plants

Montessori School on Saturday, May 12. Montessori Internationale is an annual celebration of diversity through food, entertainment, and song. Food coordinator Jennifer Abercrombie gathered together the best foods from India, Greece, Italy, America, the Middle East, and China. Dancers, singers, and martial art artists rounded out the entertainment. Performers and instructors from Kindermusik, Rising Sun Martial Arts, and Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh donated their time and talent. Younger children enjoyed carnival games, pony rides, and an inflatable castle. Many Upper thon Evans Cynthia and Jona St. Clair residents were in attendance. The Herbaugh family volunteered at the ticket table, maintaining a smooth flow of parents and children throughout the event. The Evans family organized a Mothers’ Day plant sale.

for pot gardens, herb gardens, and baskets. Cynthia’s children, Steven and Allison Evans are alumni, and brother Jonathon is a current student. The Doshi family donated a lovely Indian rice dish and enjoyed the food, entertainStudents enjoying ment, and games. Rishabh Doshi Montessori Internationale attended the elementary program and brother Arushi follows in his teachers. Serving more than 150 footsteps. families, Montessori education In fall 1976, Sister Barbara Arush is characterized by multi-age i and Sahil Doshi Popchak, VSC and Father classrooms, self-paced study, and Bernard Hrico began a Montessori preschool specifically designed materials. Teachers program at St. Winifred’s Church in Mt. Lebanon. must attend rigorous training programs to When the school opened its doors in September qualify for Montessori certification. of that year, there were 25 students and three Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and teachers. In the ensuing 31 years, the annual Academy serves children from ages two student population has grown to more than 210 through 12. Busing is available for children students and the staff has expanded to 23. who are five years old. n The academy was established in 1994 with ten elementary students. Today, the Visit www.mtlebanonmontessori.org for academy’s classrooms and hallways are more information or call 412-563-2858 for alive with the spirit and voices of more a personal interview. See ad on page 77. than 45 elementary students and six team

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair School District

School District News

Board of School Directors

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

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

Glenn G. Groninger 412-854-5345 2007*

Daniel A. Iracki 412-833-6882 2009*

David E. Bluey 412-835-6145 2009*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2007*

Angela B. Petersen Jeffrey W. Joyce 412-831-7182 412-257-1704 2007* 2007* *Date indicates expiration of term.

School District Central Offi ce Administration

To reach personnel, call -8 - 00, press , enter extension number followed by the # sign. Administrator

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Dr. Terrence Kushner Dr. John Bornyas Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent/ Director of Programming, Director of Secondary Operations, and Education (9-12) Middle Level Education (5-8)

Dr. Judy Bulazo Frosina Cordisco Director of Professional Director of Finance Development and Elementary and Business Level Education (K-4)

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*

Jean Toner Director of Human Resources

Secretary/Email Address

Extension

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Ann Stabile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Terrence Kushner . . . . . . . . . . . . . Donna Faccenda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Superintendent/Director of dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us Secondary Education (9-12) Dr. John Bornyas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl Ellison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Programming, Operations, cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us and Middle Level Education (5-8) Dr. Judy Bulazo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl Ellison. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Professional Development cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us and Elementary Level Education (K-4) Frosina Cordisco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bonnie Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Finance and Business bthomas@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Berrott. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doreen Leech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Technology dleech@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jean Toner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Dunn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Human Resources ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us Eloise Stoehr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Debbie Christman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Supervisor of Pupil Services dchristman@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Bosco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Supervisor of Special Education sbosco@uscsd.k12.pa.us Charles Samek. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Powers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Transportation kpowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2201 2218 2266 2266 2220 2211 2286 2116 2283 3450

School District Building Administration

Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Pupil Services

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Supervisor of Special Education

Charles Samek Director of Transportation

Dr. Mike Ghilani ................ Principal of the High School Lou Angelo........................... Assistant Principal of High School Jace Palmer .......................... Assistant Principal of High School Dr. William Rullo ............... Supervisor of High School Guidance Joe DeMar ........................... Principal of Fort Couch Middle School John Rozzo........................... Assistant Principal of Fort Couch Middle School Karen Brown ...................... Principal of Boyce Middle School Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf ......... Principal of Baker Elementary School Mark Miller ......................... Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School Dr. Claire Miller ................. Principal of Streams Elementary School

USC School District website: www.uscsd.k .pa.us 8 2007 8 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Joe Knows Middle School This past April, Joseph DeMar, principal at Fort Couch Middle School, was hon-

Joe DeMar

ored by the Pennsylvania PTA as the recipient of the 2007 Dr. Walt Kealey Leadership Award. Each year the Pennsylvania PTA annually honors an outstanding principal with this award, which was established to recognize the unique leadership brought to our public schools every day by building principals. Tina Seech, the Fort Couch PTA president when Joe received the award, listed several of his accomplishments since he’s been principal. • Parents are able to come in weekly during the lunch hour to work the bookstore and interact with students. • Joe purchased a sound system so students can be more relaxed during the lunch hour. • Joe surprises the students with popsicles or popcorn, or even a school social on a random day. • Joe allows for open discussion with parents, teachers, and students and values their input on given situations. • Joe appreciates everyone—parents, staff, and students—and looks for something good in everyone! n

2007 Technology in Review Ray Berrott, Director of Technology It has been an exciting technology year

in our schools! Many improvements occurred behind the scenes to ensure the successful use of technology. This year the Technology Department upgraded the District’s Wide Area Network (WAN), which connects all of the buildings and enables staff to share more resources throughout the District at a higher capacity. Because the Internet has become an increasingly important feature of the learning environment for people, the number of Internet-based resources has increased considerably. Therefore, we increased our Internet speed to meet the greater demand of teachers and students. At the building level, computers required a more robust network to make connections to take advantage of all the District applications and the Internet. Network upgrades were implemented at each of the buildings to meet increased demand. Teachers K-8 received a new MacBook laptop and were trained on how to best utilize this resource. Staff development and training continues to be an on-going priority each year. Although many do not actually see the work behind the scenes, the students and staff recognize the benefits when using the technology resources throughout the District. At the District level, the use of streaming video has expanded, which is provided by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. The District now has access to thousands of indexed video clips on countless topics. For example, while on the Internet, instead of viewing an entire video on Martin Luther King, with one easy click of the mouse you can access one of his speeches, indexed in an easy-to-use list. Teachers can integrate video clips into their lesson plans and into PowerPoint® presentations or watch the clips on-demand when necessary.

In our District’s libraries, several tools have increasingly become more vital to learning. NetTrekker provides over 180,000 of the best online resources and is aligned with state standards, organized by readability and grade level, and has changed the way we use the Internet in the classroom. In addition, the librarians have increased the use of PowerLibrary, a resource that allows students access to thousands of full text periodicals, newspapers, encyclopedias, and other research and reference databases. In summer 2007, the Technology Department implemented a 24/7 library card catalog system (Web Collection Plus), which will be accessed through the District’s website, www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. At any time of the day or night, students will be able to search all of the books that are in the District’s libraries. In the area of music, two programs were added. Finale allows a student to compose, edit, arrange, listen to, and print music with professional-quality results. SmartMusic allows a student on a computer to plug in a vocal or instrumental microphone and begin practicing. The student plays or sings his part with accompaniment and receives, in real time on the computer, detailed feedback from his performance. In the three elementary buildings, the Riverdeep software initiative continues to expand. Riverdeep provides learning opportunities in math and reading and not only helps reinforce concepts, but successfully introduces and teaches concepts and assesses learning. Through the ASSET program (Achieving Student Success through Excellence in Teaching) students are able to explore sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks using the interactive optical microscope (iOPT)

simulator that is installed in all of the elementary computer labs. Also, as part of the elementary technology plan, new computers are being placed in all the first grade classrooms. In the middle schools, mobile labs have been added with plans for adding even more in the future. In addition, the middle school science department has been experimenting with video conferencing opportunities with organizations such as NASA, various universities, and other school districts. At the high school, a state-of-the-art technology lab was installed in the graphics arts area, including software that is used in that industry. Some older computers were upgraded and refurbished to create a foreign language computer lab. The foreign language team is piloting a new computerized assessment program through a partnership with Pittsburgh Public Schools. Deanna Baird, foreign language curriculum leader, has arranged a plan that allows use of the program at no cost to the District. Also, a new software security and distribution system was implemented to permit the Technology Department to automatically install software on all the high school computers at the same time. In summer 2007, three computer labs were upgraded with new computers and accompanying technology resources. n

Fall 2007

For further information on technology in the USC School District, contact Ray Berrott at rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Commencement Speech 2007 Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools I will take this opportunity

to acknowledge and thank our board, administration, faculty, staff, and community for all they have done to prepare our Dr. Patrick O’Toole graduates for life beyond USC, and a special thanks to the staff members who prepared for the graduation ceremony. On behalf of the entire District, congratulations Class of 2007! You are truly a remarkable class. You made our school the number one public school in the Commonwealth in student academic achievement over the past two years. In addition, you have earned many state honors in sports, activities, and the arts. In 1794, the Higbee School, one of the first public schools west of the Alleghenies, was constructed in Upper St. Clair Township. Tonight, over 200 years later we gather in the same Township to celebrate the commencement of the 47th graduating class of Upper St. Clair High School. Much has changed in the 213 years since that first school was built. In fact,

much has changed since tonight’s graduates were born in the late 80s and early 90s. At that time, most of us did not have a cell phone, Internet access, or email capabilities. We did not text message, download music, or access wireless networks. Starbuck back then was just a character in Moby Dick. In this time of great change, it’s comforting to observe that which remains unchanged—the crucial support from our parents for the education of their children. Just as the construction of the Higbee School in the 1700s was symbolic of the commitment the parents of that time made to the education of their children, Upper St. Clair High School represents the parental and community support for the education of our students today. The outstanding young men and women before us are a manifestation of the commitment, love, and patience shown to them by their parents, family members, and loved ones. Class of ’07, I am certain that your parents have recently thought about how quickly you’ve grown. They recall with fondness the countless diapers, sippy cups, toys, your first steps, the first day of school, your favorite books, sports, school projects, music programs, birthday parties, vacations,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

and more. Tonight, those memories along with one look at the unique and talented young adults you have become gives them an unmatched, almost indescribable, sense of pride and accomplishment. Commencement speeches often ask our graduates to address the challenging problems of the world—to improve education, to cure diseases, to end poverty, to confront bigotry. Speakers usually point out that commencement is a beginning, not an ending. However, I suggest that the occasion of commencement, a time when the focus is on you and all that you have accomplished, is also a time to look back and give thanks to your parents, family, and loved ones for the encouragement, nurturing, and support they have given you, assuring your success as students of USC and as a citizen of our great country. In response to your show of appreciation, your parents will most likely reply that who you are today and what you will do in the future will be gratitude enough— whether you thank them through your academic pursuits, community service, career success, or your role as a family member. These same endeavors will also make us proud to call you alumni of Upper St. Clair High School. Finally, I offer our thanks to you, and to your parents and families for all that you have done for our District. Our sincere best wishes to you for good health, happiness, and much success. n

Board Response Dr. Mark Trombetta, School Board President Today we celebrate the culmina-

tion of many years of perseverance and achievement by our graduating seniors. We share bittersweet emotions of parental pride and the continuing concern for the future of our offspring that is every parent’s undeniable truth. This is the transition phase that begins the long and winding road of responsibility. Dr. Mark Trombetta Graduating seniors, take on your challenges with an indefatigable spirit of pride and humility; of self determination and self sacrifice; of devotion to the one family of man; and, above all, devotion to God. Learn to love life’s blessings, never failing to appreciate all that has been given you. Learn to persevere through the most difficult of times and grow ever stronger for having experienced hardship. It would be very easy to abandon hope in this ever-changing world, but parents, we have witnessed first hand the potential in your sons and daughters. We have seen their dedication to purpose and the vigor with which they approach their tasks. These young men and women seated before us are among the finest this nation has produced, and it is because of them in great part that the future of America is brighter still. On this annual celebration of Flag Day, as we honor these graduates, it is clearer than ever that our beloved country is still the “shining city on the hill” as recounted by President Ronald Reagan. It is further clear that the students of the Class of 2007, guided lovingly by the almighty hand of Providence, nurtured by their devoted parents, and educated by their talented instructors will propel this country Academic Achievers of the Class of 00 toward further greatness. It is clearer than ever that America’s best days are ahead of her. Congratulations! n

Valedictorians (pictured above, listed alphabetically) Megan Burdette, Eric Cheng, Jingyang Cheng, Blair Douglass, Joshua Jackson, Karisa Lee, Miriam Loebman, Chelsea Overstreet, Arjun Prabhu, Matthew Prorok, Andrew Savinov, Sara Sukenik, Tori Tomiczek, Elizabeth Tseng, Jonathan Weimer Superintendent Academic Achievement Awards Sunny Chow, Leonard Mills International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidates Lauren Brune, Daniel Capone, Jingyang Cheng, Donald Groves, Melissa Kaduck, Dalena Klavin, Miriam Loebman, Neha Mehta, Matthew Prorok, Elizabeth Pye, Andrew Savinov, Raymond VanCleve, Adeeb Yunus Photos courtesy of M&M Photography

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Lake Jumping 0 : First Year Teacher Survival Rob Sully, Boyce School teacher “Do you get to go to Deer Valley?”

Not congratulations, rather, “Do you get to go to Deer Valley?” was the initial response of just about anyone south of the Liberty Tunnels when I told them that I had been hired to teach at Boyce Middle School. I had never heard of Deer Valley, and I had no clue whether I would have the chance to go there. In the weeks preceding the start of school, I quietly went about preparing for my first year as a teacher. All the while though, I couldn’t help but notice the ease with which my colleagues accepted aspects of our school that are unique. For example, with a very relaxed voice the fifth grade teacher across the hall from me explained that there are curriculum meetings, PLC meetings (Is that like an LGI?), guidance meetings, and faculty meetings. My voice was anything but calm when I humbly looked at my schedule for the first time. It was more of a shrill cry that echoed softly on the outskirts of town. Foreign language, expressive arts, physical education, guidance, skill time, and pride time were speckled across the paper. Surely, the administration had accidentally given me a high school schedule of some type—I was going to be teaching sixth grade. These were thoughts of denial. Boulders weighed on my shoulders while fog drifted through my head as I walked into the building on the first day of class. All I had to do was make it to my meetings, find my way around (Is the nutrition center like a cafeteria?), remember to get my students to their other classes on time, pride time around 2:45 p.m., and I’d make it! Oh, and I also had to teach somewhere in there. I made it through that first day, and I survived my first year of teaching by trusting my colleagues, my students, my parents, and myself. Following are some of the lessons I learned at Boyce that I never learned in college. Lesson #1: Every second of instructional time is valuable. It’s amazing how time flies when you’re having fun! It’s also amazing how time flies when you’re doing everything for the first time. One minute I’m trying to find the courtyard and the next I’m jumping into 5

a lake at Deer Valley. I’ve never doubted myself as an educator and professional, but as I climbed out of that lake I wondered how I made it this far. Lesson #2: Honor your students’ trust by making every instructional second valuable to them. Did you know that Twisters and Dunkers are both breadsticks? Twisters just have cheese. This is one of the many things I’ve learned from my students this year. I learned from my students, and about them. Somehow a sixth grade student takes ten minutes to walk back

Boyce team teacher Kathy Hoedeman is ready with a towel in anticipation of Rob Sully’s lake jump at Deer Valley this past May.

to homeroom from foreign language, but can make it from class to the nutrition center in about as much time as it takes to make a Dunker into a Twister (add cheese). However, breadsticks were the last thing on my mind in that cold lake. I climbed onto the dock, the wind seeming to blow right through me, and there they were—my students. The look in their eyes, the bond we’d developed—they were my support. Lesson #3: Parental involvement is not a burden. It’s a bonus. Embrace it. Somewhere down the line this past year, I became confident and realized I can do this, and I can do it well! I’m not really sure when any of this occurred, but I do know that I had 55 sets of parents watching me. Oh, the parents! They pay meticulous attention to every whim of their child’s educational career. They call, email, and schedule conferences. They don’t have a problem pulling you aside for an impromptu conference. I thought a lot

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

about the time I’d spent with parents and came to a conclusion—every child should be so lucky. I wish every child had parents that were as involved as my students’ parents. I wish every child had a parent that cared about his or her education. I wish every teacher had the support and trust of his or her students’ parents the way that I have this past year. Lesson #4: When you’re lost, let your colleagues guide you. For working in a square building, it’s amazing how lost a first year teacher can feel. You have to learn about 50 names of colleagues, where they teach, and still find your room. The worst kind of lost though is that of being mentally lost—not knowing what to do, how to do, or when to do it. This was my deep dark secret on the first day of school—I felt as if I’d asked anyone for help, they’d think I wasn’t good enough. They might think I was lost! They might even think I wasn’t confident. However, I can teach. I could teach a hamster to fetch if I wanted to. The problem was figuring out what to teach and when. For me, this problem was alleviated very early on by my colleagues. Lessons, materials, objectives, assessments, and even snacks were given to me on a regular basis. More importantly, encouragement, guidance, and support were also plentiful. Walking into the dining hall at Deer Valley after my 46° lake jump, I smelled of lake funk, looked like a wet dog, but felt warm. My students were thanking me for jumping in the lake, and the parents were slapping me on the back. My fellow teachers were just happy to be dry. In college, no one tells you that you’ll jump into a freezing lake someday. I took Elementary Reading Methods and Algebra, but I must have missed Lake Jumping. Lake Jumping is probably taught somewhere near Bulletin Board Design 101, Late Night Test Grading, and Maintaining Mean Face Even Though Student’s Inappropriate Comment Really Was Funny. Sometimes in life, experience is the best class one can take! n

Assessment—Doing it Right If you asked a student what is the most

related to assessment and motivation. The common method of assessing how well they session ended with specific training in writing are doing in a class, chances are they would learning targets. say their test grades. But it would be the rare The August module, organized and develstudent who never went into a test feeling con- oped by Mary Quinn, Elementary Language fident they knew the material, but walked out Arts Curriculum Leader, and Rebecca Smith, of that test unsure of how well they performed. Elementary Social Studies Curriculum Leader, The District’s professional staff remembers was geared toward the concept of assessment those feelings too, and they are working on ways for learning, or strong formative assessment to incorporate the best assessment practices into practices. Assessment for learning hapthe classroom. pens while learning is During discussion underway. This type in the Strategic Plan of assessment is conAssessment Committee ducted throughout the meetings, it was clear teaching and learning that the District needed to diagnose student to focus on training in needs, plan the next the assessment area. steps in instruction, This theme was also provide students with Students receive their tests back present at the Districtfeedback they can use in a chemistry class at the high school. wide Comprehensive to improve the quality Assessment Task Force meetings. Assessment of their work, and help students feel in control is a powerful tool in the classroom. The use of their journey to success. Combining what of classroom assessment to build confidence is known about how the brain works, how in a student as a learner and to help each one learns, and how motivation can maximize student take responsibility for his own learn- learning are the foundations of assessment for ing builds a student’s foundation for lifelong learning practices. learning. This is what the District is looking The final module, organized and develto accomplish. oped by Tracey Olkowski, high school science As part of the School District’s Chapter 4 teacher, and Dr. John Bornyas, Director of Strategic Plan 2002-03 to 2008-09, and the Programming, Operations, and Middle Level District-wide Comprehensive Assessment Education, deals with assessment of learning or Plan of June 2004, the professional staff has summative assessment. This training will occur embarked on a comprehensive training program in January 2008. Since assessment of learning that focuses on best practices related to student is a familiar concept, this module focuses on assessment. The training started in February designing assessment methods to be accurate 2007 and will continue through January 2008. and effective in measuring the targets of the Built on the work completed by the learning. Key in this process is selecting the Assessment Training Institute, Inc., Portland, appropriate assessment methods to match the Oregon, the training program focuses on effec- learning or achievement targets. The “Assess tive classroom assessment to improve student how?” question and realization that no single learning and achievement. Through this train- assessment method is superior to any other are ing program, tools are being provided to the key parts of this process. Assessment of learning and assessment for District’s professional staff that will ensure that the good they do in teaching is joined with, and learning are related tools that serve different made more powerful by, how well they assess. purposes and produce different results. Balance The training is being delivered in three is essential. Teachers who are committed to exday-long training modules. The first two cellence in their classrooms use assessments for of these modules occurred in February and learning until they are certain that assessment August 2007. of learning will result in student success. The February module, organized and deThe assessment trainers include Karen Brown, veloped by Dr. Judith Bulazo, Director of Staff Boyce Middle School principal; Eloise Stoehr, the Development and Elementary Education, and District’s Supervisor of Pupil Personnel; John Dr. Claire Miller, Streams Elementary School Irwin, Leslie Leeds, and Patricia Zapp, high principal, focused on past practices used in school teachers; Michelle Hamel and Julie assessment that supported the industrial Ameri- Mauder, middle school teachers; and Shannon can society of the 20th century. It included the Dominick, Robin Pleta, and Catherine Zora, need to transform these assessment practices elementary school teachers. to meet the requirements of a standards-based This initiative is built on the belief that educational model as students prepare to find as assessment practices improve, student success in the post industrial, high tech infor- achievement and student motivation to learn mational American society of the 21st century. also improves. This in return increases student This module included an overview of effective responsibility and ownership over his or her assessment practices, together with concepts own learning and education. n

Fall 2007

What a Team!

$67 We've sold $63 million together since 2002. Interview us!

Bonnie

Marlene

Bonnie Detwiler ext. 158 Marlene McNaughton ext. 122

412-831-0100

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 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Bolas Elected President-Elect of NSBA Upper St. Clair school board member Barbara Bolas has been elected president-

elect of the National School Boards Association (NSBA). The association’s Delegate Assembly chose Bolas at the NSBA’s annual conference in San Francisco. She has been a member of the NSBA board of directors since 2001. Barbara has been a member of the Upper St. Clair School Board since 1985, and has served as both president and vice president. She was elected president of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association in 2001. Barbara has held numerous state positions, including president of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association’s Insurance Trust, vice president of the Pennsylvania Public School Health Care Trust, and president of the Pennsylvania Public Education Foundation. In 2001, she was

appointed as commissioner for the Keystone Commission on Education for Employment for the 21st Century. After receiving a bachelor of science degree in elementary education from the State University of New York at Brockport, Barbara did graduate work at the University of Pittsburgh. She has held teaching positions in New York, Wisconsin, Canada, and Venezuela, and has worked with Head Start, the Girl Scouts, and Safe Neighbor programs. Founded in 1940, the NSBA is a not-for profit federation of state associations of school boards across the United States. Its mission is to foster excellence and equity in public elementary and secondary education in the United States through local school board leadership. NSBA represents the school board perspective

Left to right: C. H. Savoie, NSBA secretarytreasurer; Barbara Bolas, NSBA president-elect; Norm Wooten, NSBA president; E. Jane Gallucci, NSBA immediate past president Photo credit: School Board News, NSBA’s newspaper

before federal government agencies and with national organizations that affect education, and by providing vital information and services to state associations of school boards throughout the nation. n

Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science—Coming to USC Liyun Jin, USCHS senior Envision a lovely, lazy Saturday morning when the sun has not yet risen and

you are hours away from being awakened by your natural sleep cycle. But then imagine that your alarm clock begins shrieking acrimoniously at five-thirty in the morning, and that instead of smothering the snooze button with your drowsy hands, you drag yourself out of bed and make yourself presentable. Yes, what horror. But annually, thousands of students from grades seven to 12 go through this same dreadful procedure in order to arrive on time to the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) competition. It is the culminating day of an activity that involves many weeks of effort and energy on an independent research project and presentation, all to be judged meticulously at the science fair. PJAS describes itself as “a state-wide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest among its members through the development of research projects and investigations.” This demanding extracurricular activity, which likely sits atop an already precariously lofty pile of school-related work, involves a substantial commitment, but that fact is no deterrent to those who are passionate and willing to dedicate the necessary time and effort. Upper St. Clair High School senior and three-time PJAS participant Jessica Frey comments, “I compete in the science fair because I can conduct my own research as well as see other students’ research and presentations. I really do enjoy it.” By taking part in PJAS, students gain knowledge and insight into a particular subject, an experience that can be truly rewarding. 54

Jessica Frey

With this knowledge in mind, it should then be a great pleasure to learn that the competition will be coming close to home next year, as Upper St. Clair High School will host the regional PJAS science fair this coming February. Each year, PJAS holds ten science fairs throughout the state. From these regional science fairs, each consisting of about 1500 participants, first prize winners proceed in late May to the state competition held at Penn State University. The competition’s categories include behavioral science, biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, microbiology, physics, and others. Terri Clister, a USCHS senior who participated in the competition during her freshman and

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

sophomore years, remarks, “I feel that doing the science fair introduced me to the research I want to pursue further in college. I will definitely do a project again this year, especially since it’s being held at the high school.” Teachers and past PJAS participants urge all curious students to contact their science teachers and to try their hands at the competition. In addition, adults with science backgrounds are encouraged to volunteer as judges, since PJAS states, “Judges are always needed for the regional meetings and state meeting.” Jessica, who recently won first prize at the state competition with a project entitled “Impressed Current Cathode Protection,” hopes that all interested students compete. She laments, “Upper St. Clair is always a bit underrepresented at the science fair. I believe that many more people could do it and would enjoy doing it but just don’t know about the opportunity.” And since that obstacle has just been surmounted, there really remains no significant excuse not to participate. The science fair is a challenging yet rewarding, demanding yet worthwhile activity for those students interested in pursuing science, medicine, or technology; but above all, it is the perfect opportunity for anyone just seeking an enjoyable and eye-opening experience. n

More information about the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science and details about registering as a judge can be found online at www.pjas.net or by contacting Dori Lijewski at dori@icubed.com.

Japanese Students Yatta! (Did it!) Each year the Japan-America Society of Pennsylvania

and the Asian Study Center at the University of Pittsburgh host a Japanese language and culture competition for area high school students. On February 10, over 50 students from eight Pittsburgh area schools, including Butler Intermediate and High School, Mt. Lebanon, Norwin, Perry Traditional Academy, Shaler Area High School, and Upper St. Clair High School participated in this competition. Eleven students from USC sacrificed their time and worked very hard to compete in this year’s contest. Their dedication to Japanese and the competition was demonstrated by the fact that February 10 was also a special day for Upper St. Clair High School and the whole student population—Sadie Hawkins Day, which includes the well-attended dance. The students made the choice to attend the competition in lieu of the dance and their dedication was richly rewarded! Jackie Fera (Level 2) and Ritu Thomas (Level 3) received first place trophies for the speech contest. In addition, Ritu Thomas received the competition’s overall first place award. Three USC students received individual second-place awards in the Level 2 speech competition, as well as one second-place award in the poster competition. USCHS foreign language teacher Junko Kapples was very proud of all the students who represented the District. Omedetou! (Congratulations!) n

Left to right, front row: foreign language curriculum leader Deanna Baird, students Clarissa Drake, Ashley Soriano, Ritu Thomas, foreign language teacher Junko Kapples, student Kacie Long, and USCHS principal Dr. Mike Ghilani; back row: students Olga Regunova, Aleksandra Evstiounina, Addison Beall, Danny Mauldin, and Zack Stetor

Overall first place: Ritu Thomas Level 1: Poster Second place–Olga Regunova and Ashley Soriano Third place–Ryan King and Zach Stetor; Danny Mauldin and Addison Beall Level 2: Speech First place–Jackie Fera Second place–Clarissa Drake, Kacie Long, and Aleksandra Evstiounina Level 3: Speech First place–Ritu Thomas

The foreign language department at USCHS currently offers Japanese Levels 1 through 3.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Fort Couc h Students Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You know? Music Department Awards Win iation at Math Assoc Conte ators st Educ c Musi nia sylva Penn the ded s atten USCHS band DidTheYou Know? Did You Know? Did You know? At the School. le Mathe matics Midd nce Council of Western ende Indep ’s Park l Bethe at ce Adjudication performan Pennsylva d an earne nia’s hony 50 symp annu Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? wind al Algebra I and band rt conce s ll’ Picke USCHS band director Don Contest, Fort Couch students Ben Zhang earned ble ensem wind s ’ reich Eisen Frank tor direc band rating, while Excellent Did You Know? Did nYou Know? Did know? placed You first and Maya Chandrasekaran of the Azalea Festival, the a Superior rating. During the national competitio receivedYou ound secon all-ar d bestplace. and ls Maya Did You Know? Did You Know? Did know? meda was also the gold d earne rs teclai Chan Pantheon Choir and the . top

Did You Know?

Maya Chandrasekaran

e medal recognition

bronz awards, and the marching band was honored with

Science Bowl Congratulations to the following students who represented Fort Couch Middle School at the National Middle School Science Bowl this past April. The competition consisted of an Academic Bowl and a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car Race. Fort Couch Team 1 members were Shane Heil, Thomas Holmes, Vijay Viswanathan, Ben Zhang, and Maya Chandrasekaran. Pat Davis, Matt Vernacchia, Jason Wassel, Greg Williams, and Colin Burns represented Fort Couch Team 2. Team 3 members were Jessica Cohen, Geetha Reddy, Ken Syme, Andy Tomiczek, and Michelle Hoch. Team 2 was the overall winner of the two-part competition and represented Region 25 (Western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia) in Denver, Colorado, placing 19th in the Academic Bowl and 10th in the car race at the national competition this past June. The team sponsor was Fort Couch teacher David Silvers. JV Hockey Team Wins Champ ionship Congratulations to the Junior Varsity hockey team for winning the PIH L Tier I Championship, defeating Erie McDowell in triple overtime. The JV team compiled a 16- 1-4 ove ral l rec ord , inc lud ing a 20-game unbeaten streak to end the year. 56

scorer in the preliminary round of the contest in Allegheny County.

Mellick Receives Reflections Award Michele Mellick, a student at Fort Couch Middle School, received a National PTA Reflections Program Award and was considered as the best-of-the-best in one of six art categories. Michele received the Award of Merit in the middle school dance category for her interpretation of “Rosemary’s Granddaughter.”

USCHS Spring 2007 Sports Results Team

Ben Zhang

Wins Losses

Baseball............................ 8

Softball............................ 1

Boys’ Tennis.................... 18

Section and WPIAL champions PIAA Team Runner Up Chris Foster and Jay Jones–PIAA Doubles Champions

Boys’ Volleyball................ 9

Girls’ Track...................... 1

Boys’ Track...................... 2

Girls’ Lacrosse................. 8

Boys’ Lacrosse.................. 5

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Zhang Selected for Downtown Vibrancy Project Th is sum me r Ben Zha ng, a ool, student at Fort Couch Middle Sch wn nto dow created a plan to turn n atio tin Pit tsb urg h int o a des wn nto Dow location as part of the m Vib ran cy Pro jec t. The pro gra s ion uss disc included lectures and y’s rsit ive Un at Poi nt Sta te Par k ded Sum me r in the Cit y and gui wn nto dow fiel d trip s thr oug h Pittsburgh.

Rubin Receives Graduate Cornerstone Award Jayna Lyn Rubin, guidance counselor at Fort Couch Middle School, recently received the Graduate Cornerstone Award from Chatham College. This award recognizes the achievement and leadership of Chatham graduate alumnae who demonstrate the essence of a Chatham College graduate education. One student is selected from each graduate program at the school each year. This year, Jayna was selected to receive the Graduate Alumna Award from the Counseling Psychology Program from which she graduated in 2004. Economics Challenge Four Upper St. Clair High School students emerged as Pennsylvania state winners for the fourth year in a row! These students joined over 125 students from across the Commonwealth in Harrisburg to showcase their economic knowledge in the National Economics Challenge. The Upper St. Clair team members Jingyang Cheng, Arjun Prabhu, Matt Prorok, and Josh Jackson accompanied by their teacher, Ben Edwards, placed first in the Adam Smith Division for students taking advanced placement (AP) economics courses. Each winning team member received a $300 savings bond. 0 Malarkey “Hits” 30 School varsity Hi Upper St. Clair gh Malarkey won his baseball coach Jerry the Panthers earned 300th career game as s AAAA, Section 3 a 10-3 win in Clas ldwin. Malarkey, a against visiting Ba unselor, has been USCHS guidance co ach for 24 seasons Upper St. Clair’s co record. and has a 300-149

RETAINING WALLS Repair - Rebuild - Replace Stone - Block - Timber

Wm. “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc.

724-348-4476 20 Years of Professional Service

Business Times Ranks Upper St. Clair Number One! Pittsburgh Business Times’ Guide to Western Pennsylvania Schools has ranked the Upper St. Clair School District first place in its honor roll rank. Out of 303 schools, USC placed first in 11th and 8th grade ranks, and 48th place in 5th grade rank.

Jun Iida, Cassie Miller, and Ben Benack

Sweet Music Students from USCHS band director Frank Eisenreich’s Jazz I class participated in the 2007 Slippery Rock University Jazz Festival on Saturday, May 5. In addition to receiving a Superior rating for the entire ensemble, they also won the Outstanding Trumpet Section Award. Individual solo award winners were Cassie Miller for flute, Ben Benack for trumpet, and Jun Iida for trumpet. n

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Crew—the Ultimate Team Sport Pam Grifﬁth and Bill Grifﬁth, Jr.

Crew Basics: • There are two types of rowing. In sculling, rowers use two oars or sculls. In sweep rowing, rowers use only one oar each. • Team rowing is usually in teams of two, four, or eight. In teams of four or eight, there’s often an extra person in the boat called a coxswain who steers the shell and is the on-the-water coach for the crew. • The boats are called shells and are made of a lightweight fi berglass composite material. They vary in length from a 27-foot single scull to a 60-foot boat for eight, and they weigh from 23 to 200 pounds, respectively. • The speed the boat travels is referred to as strokes per minute (SPM)—one of the most important terms in crew. During a race, the SPM begins at a high rate (40-50 SPM, depending on the number of persons in the boat). The speed then settles to approximately 30 SPM before the rowing team sprints to the fi nish. The more strokes a team can row in a minute, the faster the boat will move through the water.

There are many choices in the this means that even novice rowers can world of high school sports, and be assured an opportunity to participate

football, basketball, baseball, and soccer continue to be popular activities. But in Western Pennsylvania and other parts of the country, there has been an increase in participation in other non-traditional sports. One of the fastest growing sports in the country is rowing, also called crew. The popularity of high school rowing has exploded across the United States. Data through the 2005-06 school year indicates that the number of crew participants has more than tripled over the last 15 years. (Source: National Federation of State High School Associations). Founded in the fall of 1989, Upper St. Clair Crew is in its 19th year of rowing. Now under the leadership of head coach RJ Pisani, the team sports a strong foundation of dedicated rowers coupled with great parents who back the club. During the season they travel to regattas and racing events, including Pittsburgh’s biggest event, the Head of the Ohio regatta, which attracted 90 teams of various skill levels to the Allegheny River last September. Upper St. Clair Crew is an athletic program that competes with varsity and other club crews at various regattas. The team has won numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals, and took first and second place at both of the indoor rowing championships and erg competitions this past winter. The team looks forward to continued success and a strong presence in the rowing community. Unlike sports such as soccer or baseball, which some kids start playing at a very young age, rowing as a competitive sport does not really begin until high school. Since nearly everyone rowing at the scholastic level starts at about the same age,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

as a competitive rower in high school. If you’re athletic, love the water, and want a high school “family,” take a serious look at joining USC Crew. Once you sign up and are accepted as a recruit for the team, the fun begins. There is a required swimming test and the athlete must learn techniques on a rowing machine (called an erg). To begin, you’ll need determination, endurance, strength, and discipline. You’ll quickly know if rowing is for you. There’s no sitting on the bench. You’ll be ready for rowing competition in no time!

Rowing becomes a way of life for team members. Rowing teammates are like one big family, spending as much as 20 hours a week together. In no other sport is the word “team” as meaningful as it is in crew. Teamwork is absolutely the most important aspect of rowing. In some team sports, play often focuses on an individual player. In crew, it’s always about the team working together as a single unit. If you value teamwork and cooperation above individual stardom, crew may be just the sport for you.

Last year’s senior class provided leadership, inspiration, and encouragement to the team. This is how they described their experience:

“Crew members are like family to me. This is the most unifying experience you will ever have with other people.”—Fred Hatfull, captain

USC Tennis Swings for Consistency Stacy Romanias

“I have had a wonderful experience on this team. I have learned so much and I feel I have made a connection with so many people.”—Kyle Matthews make sacrifices for “It’s being part of a determined brotherhood. We all Wright Clarke ds.”— rewar the each other, and, in the end, we all reap

“Crew and the guys on the team have been the strengthening and encouraging elements poured into the alloy of my high school career.”—Rob Pribish “Rowing has taught me the valuable skills of control and concentration while also getting me in great shape.”—Sam Walker

“Being on this team, as well as participating in this sport, have been the most rewarding experiences of my life. I could not imagine my years in high school without crew.”—Jon Ross Rowing produces some of the most competitive and driven people that you may ever meet. Rowers never give up. Rowing teaches great qualities like perseverance, determination, ambition, and mental strength. The sport helps each person strive to be the best they can be, both on and off the water. There is something inexpressible about the sport of rowing—it cannot be taught; it must be explored through experience. The team sadly says goodbye to co-presidents David and Debbie Clarke with appreciation for their contibutions to the club, and to assistant coaches Matt Tamilia and Sean Overby for their hard work and dedication. n USC Crew welcomes anyone with an interest in the sport. For more information, contact Jim Winner at 412-257-0853 or Pam and Bill Griffith at 412-854-0416.

When it comes to consistency, it’s hard to top the

Upper St. Clair High School boys’ varsity tennis team. Coached by Ron Mercer, the Panthers captured their fourth straight WPIAL championship with a hard fought win over Shady Side Academy. In a return trip to Hershey, Chris Foster and Jay Jones teamed to win the state doubles title. The 2007 Panthers boasted a strong starting line-up of seniors with Chris Foster (second singles), Arjun Prabhu and Matt Hough (first doubles), and Jon Henderson and Alex Romanias (second doubles). Rounding out the starting seven were junior Scott Yanak (third singles) and sophomore Jay Jones (first singles). Led by captains Chris Foster and Arjun Prabhu, the Panthers steamrolled through the PIAA playoffs with victories over Allderdice (5-0), Council Rock North (4-1), and Council Rock South (4-1) setting up a rematch in the finals with defending champion Lower Merion. The USC duo of Jon Henderson and Alex Romanias entered the PIAA championship match undefeated, finally succumbing to a talented Lower Merion team in the third set of a nail biting, see-saw match. Losing 3-2, USC walked away with the well-respected PIAA silver medal. n

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Reproductions of USC Schools Available The Upper St. Clair Alumni Foundation in conjunc-

tion with Hometowne Designs has produced beautifully detailed, handcrafted reproductions of USC schools and the Home of the Panthers. Each piece also has a detailed history of the school building. The profits from the sale of the pieces go to support the mission of the Alumni Foundation, which is to organize the alumni of Upper St. Clair to support both social and educational activities and to establish funds to enrich and support the educational activities and non-budgetary programs of the Upper St. Clair School District. The foundation seeks to fund and support programs that go above and beyond what tax dollars provide and allow the graduates of Upper St. Clair to give back to their alma mater.

USCHS Panther Stadium

MESH Sets Schedule for 2007-08 The 2007-08 MESH meeting and program schedule has been set. MESH (Multicultural

Education for Social Harmony), comprising parents, community members, students, and school district personnel, works to implement the following mission: “To develop learned and responsible citizens who recognize the value of a multiethnic community and have the skills needed to interact with a global society by educating both students and personnel to the historical contributions various ethnic groups have made in our society and the society progress we as a heterogeneous society want to obtain.” This school year’s meeting and program schedule will begin on Thursday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school nutrition center with a fellowship hour followed by a program based on the Joel Barker video Wealth, Innovation, & Diversity: Putting Our Differences to Work in the 21st Century. Joel Barker is an independent scholar and futurist. Because he was the first person to popularize the concept of paradigm shifts, he is known around the world as the “Paradigm Man.” The ideas presented in this video are the result of more than eight years of research and almost a year of filming across the world. Barker’s message in the video is that wealth is created by innovation, and innovation is the result of ongoing diversity—a keystone message for the 21st century. Plan on attending this 2007-08 inaugural MESH program and meeting, and mark your calendar for the others scheduled for Thursday, November 29; Wednesday, February 20; and Thursday, April 17. n 60

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

At this time, reproductions of Streams, Eisenhower, and Panther Stadium are available for immediate purchase. The cost for each school is $20, and the cost for the stadium, a limited edition of 200 reproductions signed by football coach Jim Render, is $25. The goal of the alumni foundation is to produce a complete series that will include the current high school, as well as the old blue high school demolished in 1999, and Baker, Boyce, and Fort Couch Schools. What a great way to support our schools and have a memory to display! n For more information or to purchase an available reproduction, contact David Wells (Class of ’81) at 412-833-9492.

Streams Elementary

Upper St. Clair School District Department of Athletics

2007-2008 • PANTHER PASS REGISTRATION • Name _________________________________________ Address _______________________________________

Good for all paid sporting events in the 2007-08 school year ADULT PASS: $60 one-time fee for all events Add $4 for Reserved Football Seats STUDENT PASS: $30

______________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Upper St. Clair High School Athletic Department RETURN TO: Upper St. Clair High School Athletic Department 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

QUANTITY/AMT.

Annual Adult Pass add: Football Reserved Seat Reserved Seat-Football Only Pass Annual Student Pass TOTAL:

_________ $60 _________ $4 _________ $35 _________ $30 _________

Contact Cindy Storer at the USC High School Athletic Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2260, for details.

Pennsylvania School Immunization Requirements Children in all grades (K-12) who started school before 1997 need the following vaccines: • 3 doses of tetanus* • 2 doses of measles** • 3 doses of diphtheria* • 1 dose of mumps** • 3 doses of polio • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)** Children entering school (at K or grade 1), in 2007-08 need the following vaccines: • 4 doses of tetanus* (1 dose on or after the fourth birthday) • 3 doses of polio • 4 doses of diphtheria* (1 dose on or after the fourth birthday) • 2 doses of measles** • 1 dose of mumps** • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)** • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 1 dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine or history of the disease Children entering grade 7 in 2007-08 need the following vaccines: • 3 doses of tetanus* • 1 dose of mumps** • 3 doses of diphtheria* • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)** • 3 doses of polio • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 2 doses of measles** • Age appropriate dose(s) of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine or history of the disease * Usually given as DTP or DTaP or DT or Td ** Usually given as MMR Families are encouraged to obtain the needed immunizations from their physicians. However, the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) does offer the required vaccines. To obtain information about clinic locations and times, interested persons should contact the ACHD Infectious Diseases Program at 412-578-8060. Students must provide evidence of immunization in order to attend school. These requirements allow for exemptions for medical reasons and religious beliefs. Parents must provide written documentation of exemptions to the District. If your child is exempt from immunizations, he or she may be removed from school during an outbreak.

The Upper St. Clair Panther Pride Throw A Warm Memento One hundred percent pre-washed cotton, this fully-fringed 50" by 65" throw, woven in natural, black, and red, is available for only $45. Proceeds benefit the USC PTA Council Special Projects Scholarship Fund. Order yours today by completing and mailing the form along with payment to: Carol Murray, 1558 Tiffany Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 (Questions? Call 412-221-6878.)

Comfort Specialists Since 1933 Family Owned & Operated

There when you need us. Schedule your heating check-up today and don’t forget to ask about our service agreements.

Quantity______ @ $45 each = Total $_______ enclosed Name: _______________________________________ Address: _____________________________________ City: ________________________________________

412-381-4100

State, ZIP: ____________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ Method of Payment: ___Cash

www.BoehmerHeating.com

___Check (payable to USC PTA Council) Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

School District Notices

The following information is designated as directory information:

Annual Notices to Parents of Children Who Reside in the Upper St. Clair School District

Directory Information Categories • Student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth. • Awards won and offices held. • Major areas of study. • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports. • Post-high school endeavors. • Recognition of achievements in academic and non-academic areas. • Recognition of graduating seniors. • Weight and height of athletes.

Notification of Rights for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights include: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to their child’s building principal or Supervisor of Pupil Services, Ms. Eloise Stoehr, Upper St. Clair School District, at the address listed on page 64, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The building principal or Supervisor of Pupil Services will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write their child’s building principal or the Supervisor of Pupil Services, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when the school is notified of the request for a hearing. 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate education interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); members of the School Board as a whole; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (e.g. attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the school official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. 62

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school system to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Disclosure of Personal Information FERPA requires that the Upper St. Clair School District (District), with certain exceptions, obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education record. However, the District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include the annual yearbook, honor roll or other recognition lists, graduation programs, sports activity sheets, a playbill showing your student’s role in a drama production and the like. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws required local education agencies (LEA) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories (names, addresses, and telephone listings) unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If you do not want the District to disclose directory information without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing. The parent or eligible student may refuse to permit the designation of any or all of these categories, with respect to that student, by notifying the child’s building principal within 30 days of the publication of this notice.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Confidentiality All information gathered about your child is subject to the confidentiality provisions contained in federal and state law. The District has policies and procedures in effect governing the collection, maintenance, destruction, and disclosure to third parties of this information. For information about these policies and procedures, as well as rights of confidentiality and access to educational records, you may contact in writing your child’s building principal or the Supervisor of Pupil Services.

Annual Notice To Parents Regarding School Records School records are an inherent part of a student’s formal education in the public school setting. They are used to collect, maintain, and disseminate pertinent information. The District has adopted a policy and administrative regulations in accordance with both the regulations of the State Board of Education on Pupil Records, adopted July 12, 1974, amended July 15, 1977, and the FERPA. Parents and eligible students (students who have reached the age of 18 or are emancipated minors) are accorded the following rights: 1. To inspect, review, and be given a copy of school records. 2. To obtain a copy of the District’s policy and regulations regarding the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of school records upon written request to: Supervisor of School Guidance Counseling or Supervisor of Pupil Services–addresses listed on page 64. 3. To file complaints with the FERPA Office. (See FERPA compliance address listed above.) 4. To be informed of the transfer of records to officials of another school or school system upon notification of the student’s enrollment. 5. To challenge the contents of the records. 6. To refuse individual consent where it is required for release of information from the record. 7. To be informed of the data collected and maintained by representational consent. If you wish to examine school records, you may make arrangements to do so by contacting the principal or counselor at the school your child attends.

Planned Program of Standardized Testing The planned program of standardized testing by the District is collected and maintained by representational consent and is shown below. The results of these tests, as well as the results of aptitude and achievement tests taken by the individual student on a voluntary basis and required for admission into post-secondary education institutions, are maintained and made a part of the record. Should you wish to examine the record, you may arrange to do so by making an appointment with your child’s principal or counselor. For specific information regarding matters pertaining to school records, parents or eligible students may contact the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. Test Grade Preschool screening Preschool Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Otis-Lennon School Ability Grade 1 Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 2 Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 4 Terra Nova Multiple Assessments Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 7 Terra Nova Multiple Assessments Inventory (PLAN) Grade 10

Date of Administration Prior to Entrance March March May May November

In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Education requires that all school districts participate in the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). Listed below is the schedule for the administration of the PSSA for the 2006-07 school year. PSSA Area of Assessment Grade Math, Reading, Writing Retest Grade 12

Oct. 22-Nov. 2, 2007

Writing

February 11-22, 2008

Grade 5, 8, 11

Date of Administration

Math and Reading

Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11

March 31-April 11, 2008

Science

Grades 4, 8, 11

April 28-May 9, 2008

Programs for Eligible or Protected Handicapped or Gifted Students In compliance with the state and federal law, notice is hereby given by the District that it conducts on-going identification activities as a part of its school program for the purpose of identifying disabled students who may be in need of special education and related services (eligible students). Individualized services and programs are available for children who are determined to need specially designed instruction due to the following conditions: autism, blindness or visual impairment, deafness or hearing impairment, deafness and blindness, emotional disturbance, mental retardation, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments, specific learning disability, speech and language impairment, and traumatic brain injury. If you believe that your school-age child may be in need of special education services or related programs, or your young child (age three to school-age) may be in need of early intervention, screening, and evaluation processes designed to assess the needs of the child and his/her eligibility are available to you at no cost, upon written request. You may request screening and evaluation at any time, whether or not your child is enrolled in the District’s public school program. Requests for evaluation and screening are to be made in writing to your child’s principal or Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Services, at the address listed on page 64. In compliance with state and federal law, the District will provide to each protected handicapped student without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aides, services, or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify

as a protected handicapped student, the child must be school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. These services and protections for “protected handicapped students” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in special education programs. In compliance with state law, the District provides services designed to meet the unique needs of gifted students. The District identifies “gifted” students on a case-by-case basis based on state law and District procedures. Such students may possess superior IQ scores and meet multiple criteria indicating gifted ability. If your child is believed to be in need of such services, you will be notified of evaluation procedures. If you believe your school-age child may qualify for gifted education services, you may contact in writing your child’s principal or Eloise Stoehr at any time to request determination of eligibility. Please note that entitlement to gifted services includes only those rights provided for by Pennsylvania law. For further information on the rights of parents and children, provision of services, evaluation and screening (including purpose, time, and location), and rights to due process procedures, contact in writing your child’s principal; Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Services; or Dr. Sharon Suritsky, Supervisor of Special Education at the addresses listed on page 64.

Child Identification Activities The District provides a free appropriate public education to exceptional students. To be eligible, the student must be of school age, in need of specially designed instruction and meet eligibility criteria for mentally gifted and/or one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities as defined by Pennsylvania state standards: autism, blindness or visual impairment, deafness or hearing impairment, deafness and blindness, emotional disturbance, mental retardation, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments, specific learning disability, speech and language impairment, and traumatic brain injury. The District makes use of the following procedures for locating, identifying, and evaluating needs of school-aged students requiring special programs or services. As prescribed by Section 1402 of the School Code, the District routinely conducts screenings of a child’s hearing acuity, visual acuity, and speech and language ability. Gross motor and fine motor skills, academic skills, and social/emotional skills are assessed by classroom teachers on an on-going basis. Specified needs from all of these screening sources are noted in the student’s records. Such school records are open and available to parents. Information from the records is released to other persons or agencies only with appropriate authorization, which involves written permission by parents. Parents with concerns regarding their child may contact the school principal at any time to request screening or evaluation of their child. Communication with parents and exceptional students shall be in English or the native language of the parents. Screening information will be used by the student support team within the student’s school to meet his/her specific needs or to document the need for further evaluation. If it is determined that a child needs additional services, the student support team will make recommendations for adjustments relative to such things as the child’s learning style, behavior, physical inabilities, and speech problems to assist the student in reaching appropriate gains based on his/her rate of learning. Multidisciplinary evaluations of students thought to be exceptional can be initiated by parents/guardians or school personnel. Parents/guardians are part of the multidisciplinary team (MDT). Permission of the parent/ guardian is needed to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation.

Continued on page 64 Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

School District Notices Notification of Rights Continued from page 63

The purpose of a multidisciplinary evaluation is to develop conclusions and recommendations regarding eligibility and programming appropriate for the student. Multidisciplinary evaluations use multiple sources of information in assessing a student, such as District-wide testing results, input from school personnel, team interventions, classroom observation, parent input, and formal educational and psychological testing. After the evaluations are completed, an evaluation report is compiled and includes specific recommendations for the types of interventions necessary to deal with the student’s needs. Parents are then invited to participate in a meeting where the results of the evaluation are discussed. If the child is determined to be exceptional and in need of specially designed instruction, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed. The extent of special education services and the location of the delivery of these services are determined by the IEP team and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age, and level of intensity of the specified intervention. The District also provides related services that are necessary for an exceptional student to benefit from special education. When the IEP is complete, the parents are presented with a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) with which they may agree or disagree. If parents disagree with the program being recommended, the issue may be taken to mediation or a due process hearing. The District provides a continuum of options ranging from supportive intervention in the regular classroom to supplemental intervention in the regular class or in a resource room, to a part time or full time special education class in or outside the regular school. Students receive services in the least restrictive environment as determined by the IEP team. The District provides learning support for students whose primary identified need is academic support. Life skills support is provided for students whose focus is on independent living skills. Additionally, the District provides hearing support, speech/language support, emotional support, vision support, and physical support to meet students’ individual needs. Students who are mentally gifted receive gifted support. Based upon students’ individual needs, the District provides extended school year services, adaptive physical education for students who cannot benefit from regular physical education with modifications, behavior management programs for students whose behavior interferes with learning, vocational assessment, assistive devices, and enrichment/advancement. Information about parental rights, mediation or due process procedures, special education services, programs offered by the District, and the District’s Educational Records policy is available upon request from the student’s school principal. 64

Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or emancipated minors (eligible students) certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (protected information survey) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED): 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parents. 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family. 3. Sexual behavior or attitudes. 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior. 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships. 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers. 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents. 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. • Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of: 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding. 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law. 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or to otherwise distribute the information to others. • Inspect, upon request and before administration or use: 1. Protected information surveys of students. 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum. The District will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The District will notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The District will notify parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys (listed below) and be provided with an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement: • Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution. • Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED. • Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination, or screening as described above. Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Correspondence addresses referenced in this article Dr. Sharon Suritsky Ms. Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Special Education Supervisor of Pupil Services Upper St. Clair School District Upper St. Clair School District 1820 McLaughlin Run Road 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Dr. William Rullo Supervisor of High School Guidance Counseling Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Kitchens • Baths • Windows • Doors

Visit our showroom

3180 Industrial Blvd. Bethel Park, PA 412-833-7222 www.clarkremodeling.com

“Exclusive Dealer in Western Pennsylvania”

FALL HEATING SYSTEM SUPER TUNE-UP Pawlak’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning 412-831-1922 www.onehourair.com

$79 SUPER TUNE-UP One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is offering a $79 tune-up. The One Hour technician will examine your system to catch minor problems before they become major ones. Call One Hour at 412-831-1922 or log on to onehourair.com

$1,000 INSTANT REBATE

(and no payments for a year!) One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is offering a $1,000 rebate on the installation of an efficient new system, with no payments for twelve months with approved credit. Call One Hour at 412831-1922 or log on to onehourair.com

Coupon must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with other coupons, offers or promotions. Coupons expire November 30, 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

TOP 50 remodelers in USA “Remodeling” Magazine

Imagines Enjoy an escape from the ordinary. Deriving its

name from the John Lennon hit, Imagines offers a comfortable place to get away from the pressures and confusion of everyday life. It’s a place where there’s no pressure, no politics, no road rage… a place where you can “Imagine all the people living life in peace.” This was the vision of Carol and Jeff Smith and Paty and Pete Kamtsios when they purchased their new restaurant this past May. They imagined a place where people would come to relax, linger over an exquisite meal, sip a glass of fine wine, and share pleasant conversation. Imagines is the result of that vision. Although the focus is on traditional Italian dishes, selections such as stuffed salmon florentine, Kona barbeque shrimp, and Chesapeake Bay crab cakes provide a variety of offerings to satisfy any taste. In the words of John Lennon, Imagines offers this musical invitation, “We hope some day you’ll join us.” Imagines is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 4 p.m. See ad on page 67. n

Fall Dining Guide 2007 6a^X^V B# HXdii 8]Z[

Gourmet Chinese Restaurant

AZi B^V 8jX^cV iV`Z i]Z ]VhhaZ dji d[ bV`^c\ Y^ccZg ZkZgn c^\]i#

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

(412) 279-8088 Open 7 days

EZghdcVa BZcj EaVcc^c\ 8dbeaZiZ ;ddY h]dee^c\ BZVah [dg V LZZ` EgZeVgZY ^c Ndjg =dbZ ^c DcZ 9Vn

Second Silk Road location at Caste Village

Coming Soon! 1082 Bower Hill Rd.

E]dcZ/ )&'"''%"-%*' lll#b^VXjX^cVX]Z[#Xdb

s e n i g a m

FINEST CHINESE CUISINE

(next to St. Clair Hospital)

Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Under New Ownership

We Hope Someday You’ll Join Us!

Serving classic Italian cuisine including veal, seafood and poultry dishes plus Chef Jeff’s Specialties

Italian Classics prepared with a touch of Imagination Lunch: Tuesday—Saturday 11-3 Dinner: Tuesday—Sunday beginning at 4 p.m. 631 Painter’s Run Road Upper St. Clair • 412-221-0350

patio’s open • First

Place, AOL City Guide’s 2007 Member’s Vote, “Pittsburgh’s Mediterranean Hot Spot”

• First Place, 2006 Reader’s Vote, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review • First Place, “Best of Pittsburgh,” Pittsburgh City Paper • First Place, 2006 Reader’s Choice, South Hills Record

$ $

412-563-3466 With this coupon, complimentary Red Pepper Hummus or Stuffed Grape Leaves appetizer with purchase of any dinner. Amel’s

Lunch Til 5 • Dinners • Sandwiches Night Owl Menu • Open 7 Days

USC

$ $

Amel’s Restaurant

McNeilly Road at Sussex • 412-563-3466 Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Around the Township

Town Hall South Brings Prominent

World Speakers to Upper St. Clair

News from Around the Township

Kim Epp Frenette Upper St Clair residents are a

educational benefits of Town Hall South appear to be foremost. pretty sophisticated bunch: highest “Our residents look for programs that provide food for thought level of post-secondary education in to keep their minds active,” says Jill Gordon, activities director at Western Pennsylvania, top school the retirement community. “They really want to be up on things.” district in the state, professional and According to Gordon, Friendship Village has provided a shuttle business leaders... the list goes on. service for 25 or more residents to If you look at the audience of attend Town Hall South each year for Town Hall South Lecture Series, the past 16 years—“at least as long as close to 50% from USC, you could I have been here”—or longer. add intelligent, astute, literate, and Whatever the motive for joining, enthusiastic. Town Hall South members also help “Our audience is very demandlocal charities, such as the Wesley 2007-08 Lecture Series ing—in a good way,” says Susan Institute, YMCA’s camp AIM, and Miller, chair of the USC-based lecthe Washington Women’s Shelter, All lectures begin at 10 a.m. in the ture series and a resident herself. whether they know it or not. When Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. “They want to be entertained and a few Westminster Church members educated; the caliber of speakers has started the lecture series 39 years to be pretty high to meet that.” Alexander McCall Smith ago, it was with a dual mandate of Judging from subscription levOctober 2, 2007 community enrichment and philanels, Town Hall South has met the thropy. Since then, Town Hall South challenge.The series has been efhas returned close to $400,000 to the Lisa Ling fectively at sold out capacity of 850 South Hills. November 6, 2007 for the past four years. “A lot of subscribers don’t even “I’ve been noticing the lecture realize we are a philanthropic orAnthony Bourdain series for a couple of years, but this ganization, ” says Martha Brown, December 4, 2007 year I had to subscribe—the line up committee member and USC resident. is really great,” says USC resident “A portion of our ticket sales goes to Robin Wright Karen East. East is one of a small local charities. We have no paid staff; February 5, 2008 but growing number of women we are entirely volunteer.” with younger children who see Speaker fees and other costs have Town Hall South as a great mental increased dramatically in the past Juan Williams break. The fact that the location is seven years. “To keep our memberMarch 4, 2008 so close and held during the day ship price reasonable we try to get a makes it feasible in a way that the mix of very well known speakers and For subscription information, more expensive, downtown lecture those who are rising in popularity. But email www.townhallsouth.org series are not. they always have to bring fresh ideas or call Kathleen Hess at 724-942-9529. For Margaret Keating, it is the and have a worthwhile message,” says social and the enrichment aspect of Miller, who has also been chair of Town Hall South that is appealing. speaker selection. Keating has been attending the lectures and the luncheons This year’s speakers are all well known and respected in their that follow at St. Clair Country Club for the past 14 years. “It own fields. According to Miller, “some have higher name recogniis a fun day with friends and a way to get meaningful dialogue tion with a younger audience and some with an older crowd, but into your life,” she says enthusiastically. It is also part of what we are confident everyone will enjoy them.” she loves about Upper St. Clair: “USC is a great place; we’re If you haven’t already subscribed for the coming season, make retiring here!” sure you check out what so many of your neighbors think is the For residents of Friendship Village in Upper St. Clair, the best enrichment deal in USC. n

Town Hall South

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

8 8 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007 2007

Town Hall South 2007-08 Lecture Series

Photo courtesy of Tara Murphy

Alexander McCall Smith, Renaissance Man, author, law professor, medical ethicist, and international authority on genetics harkens back to a civilized, educated, gentlemanly world so absent in current culture. Hailing from Scotland but brought up in Africa, McCall Smith draws on his own experience for his best selling book series, No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency. These gentle books bring a warm depiction of life in Botswana, full of simple truths and dry humor. From his more than 50 books to his medical law work, he has a lot to say about moral certainty, warmth, and compassion.

Lisa Ling, Investigative Reporter. She may look like a “sweet little thing” but a pushover she is not. As host of National Geographic’s Explorer and special correspondent for Oprah, Ling has slipped into North Korea to provide a glimpse of life in the world’s most isolated society, investigated the single child policy in China, dogged bullets from Columbian drug lords, tracked looted artifacts in Iraq, and followed the tragedy of Dowry Deaths in India. She held her own as the young voice on Barbara Walter’s The View and she certainly holds her own in places most of us would never dare to go. Anthony Bourdain, Celebrity Chef and Travel Channel Star, takes us to the world of the kitchen with Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly and to the world through the kitchen in his popular travel series Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. Candid, hysterical, sometimes shocking, but always professional, Bourdain is sure to more than entertain.

DESIGNED AROUND YOUR DRIVING STYLE • CERTIFIED Pre-Owned • Extension of New-Vehicle Limited Warranty to 6 years/100,000 Miles*

Robin Wright, Middle East Expert. If the Middle East remains a hotbed of turmoil in February 2008, Robin Wright, award winning journalist and Middle East expert, will be just the person to add some insight. By then her latest book, Dreams and Shadows: The Future of the Middle East, will be out. Combined with her years of experience covering the Middle East for The Los Angeles Times, CBS News, The Washington Post and The New York Times, among others, the odds are good that Robin Wright will significantly expand our understanding of a very complex subject.

• 100-Plus Point Inspection • 24-hour Cadillac Roadside Service

Juan Williams, Fox News and NPR Correspondent. The fact that he is a respected contributor on both ends of the media spectrum is enough to make Williams a notable figure. If you are looking for more than the run-of-the-mill, standard political analysis, Juan Williams is the man. Is his insight balanced and unbiased? Judge for yourself when you hear him, but with the 2008 Presidential Elections heating up you know it will be intriguing.

CTS

CADILLAC

CERTIFIED

www.rohrich.com

One mile south of the Liberty Tubes

412.344.6000

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Girl’s Travel Basketball Excels

USC Youths Perform in Pittburgh CLO’s Summer Series

Travel basketball is an opportunity

for both girls and boys playing in the rec basketball program to continue play in an increased competitive program. The girls travel teams participated in the Pittsburgh Metro League as well as tournaments throughout the area. This year, the fifth, sixth, and seventh grade teams won their championship game in the USC 2007 tournament. All the girls and their coaches agreed it was a great way to end the season! n

Disney’s High School Musical performers Tommy Hoffman and Hillary Maloney

Pittsburgh CLO’s production of

Fifth grade Left to right, front row: Karsen Rooney, Mandy Serio, Katie Tyrrell, Allie Hutton, Jordan Selep; back row: Lexi Kennell, Meaghan Flanigan, Sierra Evans, Haylee Gans. The team was coached by Mark Hutton, Suzie Serio, and Mark Tyrrell.

Disney’s High School Musical held at the Benedum Center this past May featured two Upper St. Clair talents among 20 young regional performers. Chosen from the CLO Academy and CLO’s area mall auditions this past April and featured in the teen chorus were Upper St. Clair High School juniors Tommy Hoffman, son of Allison Sweeney and Tom Hoffman, and Hillary Maloney, daughter of Kevin and Patty Maloney. In addition to being chosen for this musical, both Tommy and Hillary were selected to participate in the prestigious Governor’s School, a six-week theater arts dance program held at Mercyhurst College in Erie over the summer.

Another USC talent, Luke Steinhauer, an eighth grader at Fort Couch Middle School and son of Tim and Kim Steinhauer, performed in Pittsburgh CLO’s June production of Oklahoma!, starring theater and film legend Shirley Jones. Showcasing area talent is just one of the ways that Pittsburgh CLO demonstrates its dedication to local arts education and aspiring young performers. Since 1946, the Pittsburgh CLO performer has been the driv- Oklahoma! Luke Steinhauer ing force behind live musical theater in Pittsburgh and the entire Southwestern Pennsylvania region. Pittsburgh CLO is a not-for-profit arts organization that appreciates the support of nearly 200,000 patrons each year. Its dedication to the musical theater art form extends beyond the summer season with such programs as the CLO Academy, the CLO Mini Stars, the Gene Kelly Awards, the Construction Center for the Arts, and the CLO Cabaret. n

Where New Neighbors Become Old Friends

The Newcomer’s Club of Upper St. Clair is a social organization for women

Sixth grade Left to right, front row: Lauren Dempsey, Lexi Cherup, Sammi Witsberger, Natalie Condo; back row: Genna Gustas, Alivia Fink, Katelyn Poremski: missing from photo: Rebekah Walsh. The team was coached by Rick Condo and Todd Fink.

Seventh grade Left to right, front row: Marissa Boshoff, Katie Seech, Jackie Pion, Karis Rooney; back row: Kelli Findle, Anna Meenen, Kelsey Rogers, Stephanie Ross. The team was coached by Ashley Totedo, Ingrid Meenen, Bev Ross, and John Pion. 0

who have moved to the Township within the past two years or who have had a significant life-style change. This group is designed to develop fellowship and acquaintances among new residents and also promote assimilation into the civic life and social activities of Upper St. Clair. Newcomer’s is a great way to get acquainted with your new community and meet new friends. The club offers many activities and special interest groups to choose from such as book club, Left to right, front row: Amy Milone, Bunko, mom and tots playgroup, treasurer; Jennifer Slagle, corresponding secretary; family outings, and girls’ night back row: Jennifer Shelt, recording secretary; out just to name a few! n Lynne Amatangelo, president; Connie Urban, vice president The club invites you to one of its monthly welcoming coffees to help you learn more about the group. For more information, contact club president Lynne Amatangelo at 412-221-4424 or lamatangelo@verizon.net.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Upper St. Clair Swim Club Offers Many Programs to Residents

Swim team age group coach Christy Rupp (back row, center) with some club swimmers

With the coming of fall, comes the

opportunity to join, or try out for, one of the many programs offered through the Upper St. Clair Swim Club (USCSC). Under the direction of Richard Bradshaw, a long-time authority on water sports, USCSC, which recently incorporated under its own auspices, continues to expand its level of offerings to Upper St. Clair residents. With a learn-to swim program for young children, life saving courses for those age 15 and up, a competitive swimming and diving program for ages six to 18, and a master’s swim program and water aerobics for older adults, few people realize just how many healthy aquatic activities occur right here in USC. Over the past two years, more than 40 life guards were certified through USCSC programs and all held summer jobs with local aquatic facilities such as wave pools, country club pools, “Y” pools, and club and condo pools. The learn-to-swim program offers 12 sessions per year and has provided lessons to over 300 children this past year. The competitive swimming and diving teams provide opportunities for beginners as well as those who have excelled on the local and national level under the watchful eyes of swim coaches Richard Bradshaw, Christy Rupp, Amy Pohodich, and Charles Seymour. Recently, 13 USCSC swimmers received Top 16 award recognition from Allegheny Mountain Swimming, the club’s swimming authority which includes over 50 swim clubs from Western Pennsylvania. Regional awards were presented to Patrick Davis, Alex Gasper, Carissa Hentosz, Allison Kearney, Mariah and Christian Kelly, Jake Lucca,

Maddie Rocks, Victoria Shaffer, and Robbie Weaver. In addition to Top 16 regional awards presented to Ryan, Kyle, and Brittany Dudzinski, these three swimmers also placed first, second, and sixth, respectively, in the backstroke events nationally. Diver Amanda Lohman earned all-America status for her second year in row. Now a high school senior, she could become the first Upper St. Clair High School athlete in any sport to achieve the status of a three-year All-American. The newest program additions have been the fitness programs for adults—a master’s swim program held weekday mornings and a water aerobics class held on Sundays. These programs provide opportunities for community residents to improve their personal fitness levels. Aquatic experiences can be life changing, along with the obvious benefits of providing health and recreational enhancements. Many individuals enjoy this environment and what it offers, and they devote much of their lives in aquatic pursuits. Even though USC facilities are limited, USCSC hopes that with proper facility growth, our residents can some day experience additional recreational, instructional, and competitive opportunities such as kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, white water canoeing, scuba diving and snorkeling, crew shell racing and conditioning, water polo, and many more family recreational activities. n

Calabro Tire & Auto Service

For more information on the programs and activities offered by USCSC, visit uscswimclub.org or contact coaches Richard Bradshaw at 412-969-0697 or Christy Rupp at 724-942-3121. Fall 2007

Full Service Auto Center

FAMILY OWNED FOR OVER 65 YEARS

HydroEdge

A proven record of providing safety, value and performance over the entire life of the tire.

1476 Bower Hill Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone (412) 221-4300 www.calabrotire.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Preventing Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Abuse Kim Epp Frenette Dr. Joan Mavrinac has some good There is no way of knowing if an adonews and some bad news for parents. lescent may have a genetic susceptibility to

The good news is that you don’t have to addiction or may have an extreme reaction be—don’t even want to be—the perfect par- to even one exposure to a substance. For ent. The bad news is you have to be your Mavrinac, it is simply not worth the risk. child’s “frontal lobe” for a lot longer than “We need to go zero tolerance.” Which is you thought. why, Mavrinac insists, parents have to take Over 30 USC middle and elementary the lead. “At each stage you are the execuschool parents came to hear Dr. Mavrinac tive function. This isn’t a control thing; it’s last April as part of the PTA-sponsored helping them; it’s boundaries.” Together in Parenting (TIP) lecture series, Rearing kids to be drug resistant hoping to learn how is something best Abuse of prescription drugs to “drug-proof” their started early. “With children. They didn’t toddlers you can do is on the rise nationally, get a magic formula, a little better setting Dr. Mavrinac warned. but they did get some limits because of their Ritalin, painkillers, and solid information to size. By the time they anti-depressants are sometimes help them on their easier for children to access and are teenagers it’s like quest. trying to put pants on because they are not “street drugs” a gorilla. If you are Possibly the most kids may not consider them important informadealing with bounddangerous to try. tion shared by Dr. ary issues all along, Mavrinac, a pediatriit’s a lot easier.” cian and emergency medicine physician, There is no “one way” to parent according was the research on brain development. to Mavrinac, and you don’t need to be perfect. There is a good reason insurance compa- “Without frustration there is no growth. nies don’t rent cars to kids under 25. “Kids When you set boundaries and your kids are impulsive. They don’t think about the whine, you know they’re going to grow.” consequences, but you have to.” Emotionally strong kids are resilient According to Dr. Mavrinac that is because and more resistant to going along when a the frontal lobe, where the executive function friend says, “Just try it.” There are a lot of or decision-making of the brain takes place, things parents can do to build up a child’s isn’t fully developed until young adulthood, emotional strength. Understanding the despite the appearance of maturity. “Teens stress in your child’s life and listening to and children can say some brilliant things uncover the worries and concerns in their and you think ‘wow,’ but it’s not really con- world is an important place to start. “We nected to what their actions may be. If they all have peer pressure, but it’s a lot worse have a chance to be impulsive, they will.” for teens,” says Mavrinac. This impulsivity can get kids into a By knowing what stresses a child is lot trouble, including experimentation feeling, parents can help put things in with drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, and it perspective. For example, sometimes “high is more of a problem than some parents achievers need to realize they’re not makrealize. Even small amounts of these sub- ing decisions for the rest of their lives.” stances can damage the developing brain Discovering activities your child enjoys and its long term functioning. and does well is also a great way to build Allowing your child to consume alco- confidence. Having access to a healthy peer hol (or other drugs) under supervision group and healthy pre-planned activities is is definitely not the answer. Not only is important for all children, but it is particuthe developing brain more susceptible to larly important for children who may have damage than an adult brain, it is also more trouble socially fitting in. prone to addiction. The younger someone Mavrinac cautions against believing consumes his or her first drink, the higher busy is always better: “If you are running the risk of future addiction. The same holds crazy all over maybe your child is overtrue for other drugs. scheduled… just a thought.” Even if your

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Lions Club Presents Award to Ronita Roy

Bedner’s FARM MARKET

Upper St. Clair High School student Ronita Roy received the 2007

Upper St. Clair Lions Club award for her outstanding achievement in academics and community service as a high school junior. An engraved wristwatch was presented to her by Lions Club president Roy Johnson. n

USC Lions Fall Leaf Bag Sale

1520 Bower Hill Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Farm Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Saturday Dates: October 6, 13, 20, 27 and November 3, 10, 17

Hanging Baskets & Bedding Plants

Time: 9 a.m. to noon

Quality Christmas Trees & Live Wreaths in Season

Location: USC Department of Public Works building on the corner of McLaughlin Run Road and Truxton Drive

Hours

Ronita Roy (left) with Lions Club president Roy Johnson

Monday — Saturday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

For more information about the Lions Club, log on to www.mainstreetusc.com and link on to Lions Club listed under USC Clubs, write to USC Lions at PO Box 12778, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241, or contact Ken Marshall, Lions’ publicity chair, at 412-221-8095.

child seems to be taking it all in stride, Mavrinac recommends looking for balance. “It’s the bright kids, the over achievers who need space and time.” Modeling character—who you are when no one is watching—and your own responsible approach to stress and to alcohol use is important. In response to the proverbial question all parents dread, “Did you try (fill in the blank) as a teen?” Mavrinac recommends, “Be honest. But you don’t have to answer right away. Try to find out why they are asking; it might not be what you think!” You can focus on the ‘protecting the brain’ aspect, something science wasn’t so clear about when most of today’s parents were teens.” Being in an educated, affluent community such as Upper St. Clair is no insulation against alcohol and even hard drug use. “Heroin has definitely hit the suburbs and the South Hills,” says Mavrinac. Alcohol is still the most prevalent drug, with over 85% of 12 th graders and 50% of those in ninth grade having consumed alcohol at some point; past-30 day use is 68% and 32% respectively. Close to 50% of all 12th graders have used marijuana and 13% have tired some illicit drug other than marijuana. Abuse of prescription drugs is on the rise nationally, Dr. Mavrinac warned.

Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Ritalin, painkillers, and anti-depressants are sometimes easier for children to access and because they are not “street drugs” kids may not consider them dangerous to try. Other risky behaviors, often found in younger adolescents, are inhaling solvents and cleaning products, and the choking game. The choking game involves cutting off oxygen until you pass out; the consequences can be deadly. “Sometimes we don’t want to notice,” says Mavrinac. But clues that kids are engaging in risky activity are usually there if parents are willing to recognize them. Dropping grades, changes in sleep pattern, irritability, and always wanting to be alone in their rooms are behavior shifts that can raise a red flag to the possibility of drug or alcohol use. Small bags, bruises on the neck, sudden new friends, anything out of the ordinary could be cause for further investigation. Mavrinac also showed slides of some common street drugs and paraphernalia to help parents know what to look for. It was a sobering discussion, but in the end Dr. Mavrinac had words of advice and encouragement. The advice was back to setting boundaries. “Don’t be afraid of your kids; it’s okay to say ‘no’.” The encouragement: “Do the best you can. Your being here today and concerned… that helps.” n

(412) 221-5525 f

Fall 2007

Coffey Contracting Co. ROOFING & CHIMNEYS Slate • Tile • Shakes Tinning • Spouting Flashing • Box Gutter Repair We can recreate workmanship and styles from any Architectural Era

FREE ESTIMATES FULLY INSURED

412.341.1127 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Local Clubs and Organizations Directory 1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President ....................................412-851-0570 American Assoc. of Retired Persons John Lesica ...........................................................412-221-2289 American Assoc. of University Women Helpline............................................................1-800-326-AAUW Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club (www.bethelstclairrotary.org) Tom Atkins..............................................................412-901-0987 Boy Scouts of America Darla DiGiovanni .................................................412-325-7973 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar ....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Women’s Club Gretchen Herron, Membership Chairperson ... 412-833-8427 Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward .......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Celeste Acinapura, Executive Director ............ 412-831-1107 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ...........................................................412-221-5717 Friends of the Library Kenneth Leonardi, President ..............................412-833-2553 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President ...................................... 412-854-1835 Girl Scouts of USC Colleen Pikras .......................................................412-854-8150 League of Women Voters Laryn Finder ......................................................... 412-835-4097 Lifespan Virginia Jorofcik, Executive Director .................. 412-464-1300 Mothers and More Christie Kolbleda ................................................. 412-774-2138 PTA Council Geralyn Austin ......................................................412-833-3282 Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Edyce Rizzi ............................................................412-835-6482 South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org ..........................................412-306-8090 South Hills College Club Betsy Harkins, President ....................................... 412-561-2034 South Hills Cotillion Club www.southhillscotillionclub.org ..........................412-221-5976 South Hills Interfaith Ministry (SHIM) Carol Popp, Executive Director.......................... 412-854-9120 South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich .....................................................412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Thomas Oelschlager ........................................... 724-941-6973 Town Hall South Susan Miller........................................................... 412-854-4837 Trotwood Manor West Association John VanCleve .................................................... 412-854-4767

USC Athletic Association (www.uscaasports.org) Tony Reda, President ............................................412-257-2386 Baseball ......................Rick Murray .................. 724-941-7183 Boys’ Basketball .........Jeff Conn ..................... 412-257-3239 Girls’ Basketball ..........Tony Reda .................... 412-257-2386 Football ......................Joe DeMarco .............. 412-221-1325 Chris Lee .......................412-854-4863 Softball........................Therese Raeder ........... 412-257-0412 Fall Soccer ..................Bill Littrell ....................... 412-835-7533 Traveling Soccer ........Craig Howie ................. 412-835-2128 Wrestling .....................Jim Wilding ................... 412-835-4270 USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org) Jim and Tara Gilson, Co-Presidents ...................412-220-6077 USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Scott Churchill...................................................... 412-831-2991 USC Chamber of Commerce Rosemary Siddall ................................................. 412-833-9111 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship Jan Fleckenstein .................................................. 412-831-3289 USC Coterie Jan Brodie, President ............................................724-746-2020 USC Democratic Committee Chris McNally ....................................................... 412-851-1918 USC Historical Society Jean Brown .......................................................... 412-833-2323 USC Hockey Club Ed DiGangi ........................................................... 412-851-2927 USC League for the Arts (USCLA) Dave Criner, President ........................................412-831-6025 USC Library Lois Hoop, Director .............................................. 412-835-5540 USC Lions Club Wesley Hurst ......................................................... 724-941-8329 USC Lions Club Plastic Trash Bag Sales Wesley Hurst ......................................................... 724-941-8329 USC Newcomer’s Club Lynne Amatangelo, President.............................412-221-4424 email: lamatangelo@verizon.net USC Republican Committee Bill Babcock ........................................................ 412-854-2464 USC Senior Citizens Amy Kerman ........................................................ 412-831-9000 USC Swim Club Doug Shaffer, President ........................................412-220-4233 USC Volunteer Fireﬁghters Jerry Kopach, Jr., President ................................ 412-835-0660 USC Woman’s Club Shirley Tadda, President ..................................... 412-854-4955 YMCA South Hills Area Tim Ishman............................................................ 412-833-5600

Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY ofﬁce at 412-833-1600, extension 2284, by January 6, 2008, if your club or organization would like to be listed in our Spring 2008 directory, if we have wrong information, or if the club or organization’s information is expected to change by March 2008. Thank you.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

A full-service civil engineering firm specializing in Municipal Engineering, Land Development, Surveying, G.I.S., Landscape Architecture, Inspection, Structural Engineering, and Water/Wastewater Engineering Services. Southwestern PA offices: USC homes on tour

On Sunday, October from noon to 5 p.m. the South Hills of Pittsburgh

will play host to Wesley Spectrum’s Tour of Homes. Home tours are a great way to get ideas for building, renovating, decorating, designing, furnishing, and landscaping your new or existing home. This year’s tour includes two homes in Upper St. Clair—one contemporary, one eclectic (both on Truxton Drive); two homes in Bridgeville—one colonial, one traditional; and a lovely home in Peters Township. Proceeds from this fundraiser will directly benefit the children and families that are served by Wesley Spectrum Services. Funds raised will help to advance its mission of providing transformational support for children and families as they strive to become more independent, responsible, and caring members of the community. n Ticket price of $25 includes admittance to the five homes on the tour and admission to a tea at Christ United Methodist in Bethel Park for light refreshments during the mid hours of the tour. For more information, call 412-831-9390 or visit www.wesleyspectrum.org.

Prof iles

on People with USC Connections Deborah Smith Wheeler, USCHS ’ , recently completed her doctorate in

educational leadership at the University of Hartford. Dr. Wheeler was the recipient of the Reich Award for educational leadership and the Regents’ Honor Award for graduate students. She has presented her research at conferences in Hartford, Connecticut; Kerhonkson, New York; and Savannah, Georgia. Dr. Wheeler is employed as director of special services for Regional School District No. 6 in Connecticut. She and her husband, Gary Wheeler (USCHS ’70), have two children, Lauren who resides in Connecticut and Jon who lives in Washington, D.C. She is the daughter of Catherine and Edmond Smith, longtime residents of Upper St. Clair. n

400 Holiday Drive, Suite 300 Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2727 Meadows Professional Building Suite 400 1385 Washington Road Washington, PA 15301-9642 201 South Main Street Butler, PA 16001-3434

WWW.G AT EWAY EN G I N EER S . C O M

Wesley Spectrum’s Tour of Homes

A PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOCUSED COMPANY

Family Hospice and Palliative Care Special Event Family Hospice and Palliative Care will host the Toast To Life Celebration at the Westin Convention Center Hotel on Saturday, November 10. The formal dinner/dance benefits the services provided to patients and families in the hospice program. If interested in helping or attending, call 412-572-8812. Volunteers Family Hospice and Palliative Care seeks volunteers with professional skills to do computer work, office work, public relations, and special projects. Call 412-572-8806 for more information. Activities Friends of Family Hospice and Palliative Care auxiliary group will hold a card party and luncheon in October. All donations will benefit services provided to Family Hospice patients and families. For more information or to make a reservation, call 412-572-8812. n Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T O D A Y CELEBRATING 13 YEARS OF PUBLICATION

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

busINESSES a t y o u r S e r v i c e High-Quality Custom Woodworking for Over 25 Years From Professional Fabrication thru Final Installation Finish Carpentry and Repairs Balustrades, Moldings, Doors and Millwork Built-Ins and Custom Cabinets

724-942-3060 412-835-0589 Serving the South Hills Since 1980

550 Sleepy Hollow Road Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

412.563.2858

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

Catalucci Painting & Restoration Interior Remodeling

Our Name Guarantees Excellence!

◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

Custom Design Mouldings Wood Repair & Restoration Wood Staining & Finishing Faux Finishing Plaster and Dry Wall Repairs Venetian Plaster

Professional Workmanship ◆ Fully Insured

412-835-3890

Beyond Primary Care

PRIME TIME Sponsors Annual Holiday Craft Fair

Continued from page 42

“We’re invested in these students and we want them to do well,” says Richard “Hutch” Hutchinson, who serves as academic coordinator and associate professor in Seton Hill’s physician assistant program in addition to working as a physician assistant at the State Correctional Institutes in Somerset and Greensburg. “We’re the gatekeepers for this profession.” The delivery of health care to vulnerable and underserved populations is a significant concern for the medical community in the United States. Physician assistants can bridge some of the gaps in the current system by delivering high-quality health care to those who might not receive it otherwise. In fact, a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics ranks the PA profession as the third fastest growing profession through 2012 with a projected 49% increase in jobs. Why become a physician assistant? For some, the reasons are prosaic: the career options available to an individual with the comprehensive medical training provided to physician assistants make the field an enticing one. More often, however, physician assistants choose the field because of its traditional focus on patient-centered care. “We believe,” says Cathy Shallenberger, who has been with the PA program at Seton Hill for 11 years, including three years as director, “that you cannot see a patient as a group of symptoms, or as a disease. We enjoy the sacred privilege of caring for the whole person.” n For more information on the five year combined bachelor of science/master of science in physician assistant at Seton Hill University, visit www.setonhill.edu, call 724-838-4221, or e-mail gadmit@setonhill.edu. See ad on page 42.

On Saturday, November 3 Christ United Methodist Church in Bethel Park will be the setting for PRIME TIME’s annual craft fair. This fair, open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature 62 area crafters who will offer one-of-a kinds and sought after pieces including floral arrangements, jewelry, candles, wood-working, pet items, and many other hand-made items. Lunch and refreshments will be available throughout the day and a silent auction is planned for those wishing to try their luck! There is ample parking and there is no admission fee. Proceeds benefit PRIME TIME Adult Care, a non-profit organization specializing in the medical supervision and mental and physical stimulation of the frail elderly, those with functional impairments, and those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Fall 2007

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

FVSH 4_875x10 40853 4c

6/27/07

9:59 AM

Waterdam

Page 1

Freedom

Farms

“Do what you want when you want.”

Finely detailed and expertly finished, Waterdam Farms will exceed your expectations!

If staying in control of your life is important to you when choosing a retirement community, then you’ll appreciate the lifestyle you could enjoy at Friendship Village of South Hills. Life at Friendship Village assures you all the freedom you value today, plus a package of convenient services that can help you stay active and independent. Our professional staff takes care of the tiresome home maintenance tasks, freeing you to pursue your own interests and activities every day. Plus, our Life-care concept means you will have a lifetime of health care, so you stay in control of your future, no matter what your health situation. Don’t wait to start enjoying the richest, most rewarding life possible. Take control of your future and call Friendship Village to arrange your private, no-obligation tour of an elegant Carriage Home or lovely apartment. Call (724) 941-3100 today. Friendship Village of South Hills is recognized for excellence by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission.

A Tradition of Community

Close to I-79 and Rt. 19. First floor owner suites, attached garages, extraordinary inclusions in custom built carriage homes, patio homes, and villas. Starting at $300. For more information call Bonnie Byrnes or John Geisler at 412-344-0500.

www.waterdamfarms.com

bou t iq ue

Better sportswear and accessories at comfortable prices! Mention this ad and receive 25%off!

1290 Boyce Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 • (724) 941-3100 30 Donati Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15241

40853 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Kick it up a notch.

Back-To-School Distinctive Children’s Clothing

Girls Infant — Preteen Shop our “newly” expanded preteen boutique Boys Infant and “now” through size 12 Look for our “New Location” in mid-August 2007

CERTIFIED KITCHEN DESIGN AWARD WINNING REMODELING PAINTING • MASONRY • CARPENTRY

MASTER REMODELERS, INC. Regis McQuaide, Certified Graduate Remodeler 412•341•6585 www.masterremodelersinc.com

3015 Washington Rd. (formerly Ali Baba)

www.frognprincess.com

Fall 2007

McMurray 724-941-8589

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Hope Bassichis

Carpenter Team

Barbara Cusick

Lynn Dempsey

Janine Dillon

Jane Dodson

Bonnie Frear

Kathryn Gerhart

Dal Goldstein

Judy Hlister

Elaine Krelis

Pete Krelis

Justin Llewellyn

Deona Miller

Lisa Moeser

Helen Moore

Pat Paslowski

Dan & Tracey Petricca

Toni Petrucci

Tulla Rakoczy

Stacy Romanias

Kathy Sekeras

Karen Skrainy

Sharon Stanek

Jim Walsh

Jane Washil

Sandy Wiedt

Paula Smokonich

CB Settlement Services

Sandy Learish

Office Manager

Janine Guthrie

Sales Director

South Hills/USC Office 1699 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-833-5405 80

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2007

Terri Baldacci

Nancy Beaulieu

Gemma Betz

Norma Bishop

Noel Bliman

Marcia Briner

Bonnie Byrnes

Anita Crago

Kathy Donoghue

Kathy Enick

Jackie Ford

John Geisler

Genie Gooding

Bart Hardy

Leigh Harkreader

Heather Harrison

Nancy Heffernan

Sydnie Jones

Sue Kelso

Kathi Kernan

Jane Krauth

Julie Leslie

Joyce Lewis

Arlene Murray

Jill Render

Shirley Schultz

David Smith

Mary Torchia

Carmela Viviano

Mary Ann Wellener

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS LOCAL TRADITIONS Owned And Operated By NRT Incorporated

Rt. 19 South/Galleria Office 1539 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-344-0500 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.

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

Sensational Provincial! Gourmet kitchen, familyroom, den, gameroom, 4Br, 3+2Ba, 2nd flr laundry, 4 car garage! $779,900 Cindy Demel 412-831-5555

Gracious colonial, 2sty foyer, gourmet kitchen, familyrm, wet bar, den, gamerm, 5Br, 4.5Ba, 2nd floor laundry! $559,000 Sue Kelso 412-344-0500

Meticulously maintained over 2 story Provincial, sunken livingrm & familyrm, den, gamerm, 5Br, 2.5Ba, 3 car garage! $479,000 Kathy Enick 412-344-0500

Gorgeous updated contemporary, 4Br, 2+2Ba, familyrm, den, gamerm, deck, 3 car garage, Governer’s drive! $399,900 Sydnie Jones 412-344-0500

Wonderful 4Br, 2.5Ba Provincial! Spacious rooms, new kitchen, familyroom, den, hardwood, ceramic! $349,900 Dan & Tracey Petricca 412-833-5405

Professionally decorated and beautifully updated 4Br, 2.5Ba colonial, familyroom, gameroom, deck! $275,000 Melissa Bordenick 412-831-5555

Spacious colonial, 4Br, 2+2Ba, livingroom and familyroom fireplace, den, walk-out basement gameroom! $273,500 Leigh Harkreader 412-344-0500

Impressive stone ranch on an incredible lot! Newer kitchen opens to familyroom, gameroom, 3Br, 2.5Ba, deck! $269,900 Bonnie Byrnes 412-344-0500

Nice split entry, 10’ beamed cathedral ceilings, familyroom fireplace, 3Br, 2.5Ba, deck, on cul de sac! $259,900 Jean Seiler 412-833-5405

Updated 4Br, 2.5Ba multi-level, gorgeous kitchen, large familyrm with french door to patio, deck with view! $249,900 Terry Baldacci 412-344-0500

Handsome 4 Bedroom, 2+2 Bath colonial, den, gameroom, warparound porch, beautiful back yard! $239,900 Kathy Sekeras 412-833-5405

Spacious 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath colonial on cul-de-sac, flexible floor plan, central air, fireplace, integral garage! $185,000 Janine Dillon 412-833-5405

Fresh look! 4Br, 2.5Ba colonial, familyrm fireplace, huge basement, deck, patio, 2 car garage! $233,900 Sue Robertson 412-831-5555

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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

ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE

POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

This magazine was printed on recycled paper.

Updated 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath colonial, equipped kitchen, familyroom, 2 car garage! $164,900 Barbara Cusick 412-833-5405

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh PA Permit No. 206