R E S I D E N T I A L
Fall 2014
G U I D E C E N T E R F O L D P U L L O U T
Don’s Appliances... a showroom with an interactive kitchen www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair
THE NEW CENTER OF YSICIAN CARE IN PETERS
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St. Clair Hospital’s Outpatient Center provides access to physicians in many specialties and a full range of diagnostic services, all under one roof. PHYSICIAN DIRECTORY Internal Medicine
Ear/Nose/Throat
Preferred Primary Care Physicians, Inc. 724.941.8877 Stephanie Colodny, M.D. Ashith Mally, M.D. Walter Robison, M.D.
Endocrinology
Fatigati-Nalin Associates 724.731.0090 Nithin V. Bhandarkar, D.O. Nicholas P. DiTullio, M.D. Mario J. Fatigati, M.D. Nina Fatigati, M.D.
Plastic Surgery
Bragdon-Stofman Plastic Group, P.C. 412.572.6164 Robert W. Bragdon, M.D. John P. Brosious, M.D. Guy M. Stofman, M.D.
South Hills E.N.T. Association 412.831.7570 David P. DeMarino, M.D. Brian R. Elford, D.O. Paul Scolieri, M.D. Stephen F. Wawrose, M.D.
Pulmonary Disease
General Surgery
Pittsburgh Chest Physicians 412.942.5620 Laurie A. Kilkenny, M.D. Andrew Perez, IV, M.D. Patrick G. Reilly, M.D. Zachary T. Young, M.D.
Ophthalmology
Southwestern PA Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine, LTD 724.222.2577 Charles M. Koliner, M.D.
Evron Endocrinology Associates 412.942.7295 Wayne A. Evron, M.D.
OB/GYN
Southwestern Surgical Associates, P.C. 412.466.4121 Antonio J. Ripepi, M.D.
Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh, P.C. 724.941.1866 Stephanie S. Brown, M.D. Patricia J. Bulseco, M.D. Deborah A. Lenart, M.D. Douglas H. MacKay, M.D. Shannon H. McGranahan, M.D., FACOG Kristen E. M. Peske, D.O.
Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants, Inc. 412.572.6121 Patrick Danaher, M.D. Evan B. Dreyer, M.D. Michael A. Mendicino, O.D. James P. Mondzelewski, M.D. Bradley A. Unruh, O.D.
Cardiology
US Heart and Vascular, P.C. 412.429.8840 David Burkey, M.D. Leonard G. Gehl, M.D. James W. Marcucci, M.D. Adil Waheed, D.O. Ryan W. Zuzek, M.D.
South Hills Pulmonary Associates, Inc. 412.572.6168 Stephen G. Basheda, D.O. Evan R. Restelli, D.O.
Thoracic Surgery
Maley Thoracic Surgery Associates 412.942.5710 Richard H. Maley, Jr., M.D.
Orthopedics
McMahon Orthopedics & Rehabilitation 412.431.7342 Patrick J. McMahon, M.D.
Urological Surgery
Sholder and Bordeau Urology 412.572.6194 Kevin P. Bordeau, M.D. Arnold J. Sholder, M.D. Jeffrey R. Wilson, M.D.
South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates 412.283.0260 Brett C. Perricelli, M.D.
Colon and Rectal Surgery
Colorectal Surgical Associates 412.572.6192 Scott A. Holekamp, M.D. Leigh H. Nadler, M.D.
DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES 412.942.8150
Bone Density-Prodigy Advance Mammography-Senographe Essential
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20 Years
LOCAL Fall 2014 • Volume 20 • Issue 3 www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home
Features & Around the Township 14
More Than One Use for a… Turkey Baster? A lighthearted story that will make you smile.
18
Township 27 VFD Open House
Held on Community Day, the VFD’s open house was a huge success.
29
USC School District Receives Awards
58
Recreation Department
Graduation speeches and excerpts from the school board, administration, and students.
Community stakeholders comment on USC’s “hometown” magazine.
Many offerings for our young and our young at heart.
Residential Guide
The Outdoor Classroom
Be in the know regarding our Township and School District. See the 8-page pullout.
School District 57
Tustin, Johnston, Hays, Wiltshire, and Boyce Mayview Parks see enhancements.
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45
usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Ranked at the top, awards and accolades abound for the District.
Park Improvements
TODAY Celebrates
20 Years
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USCHS 2014 Commencement
62
38
Leap into nature with Team Tadpole and see the calendar of events.
Meet… the PTA/PTSO Presidents
A Healthier US(C) The scoop on supplements.
88
This author says that Pittsburgh is hot, hot, hot!
Upper St. Clair
49 Local Clubs and Organizations
54 Educational Resource 80 Health & Wellness 94 Advertiser Index Photo Ops 17 Community
Awards Keep Rolling in for Fort Couch
24 Community Day
An accomplished, remarkable year, the principal says, “Attitude is everything.”
From Here
A recurring feature, “Meet” interviews our leading school volunteers.
70
86
Guides/ Directories 12 Dining 42 Pinebridge 48 Serving
Foundation’s Silver Tea
2014 Wrap Up
Cover
The cover of TODAY features Chef Anthony Marino in a Don’s Appliances showroom kitchen. Underwritten by Don’s Appliances, see pages 10 and 11 for the feature story. Front cover photography courtesy of JessPaul Art.
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Let Them Eat Cake
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
28
Public Works Day Fall 2014
66
USCHS Serves Up Competition
76
Eight Months in Eight Minutes!
JOIN THE FAMILY
The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit 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. This year, we celebrate 20 years of publication.
The 79th 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.
Winter 2014 edition deadlines: Articles—September 18 Advertising—September 22
Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Alison Hess, Marketing Executive Lynn Dempsey, Advertising Executive Neena Jacob-John, Advertising Executive Laura Whitcomb, Advertising Executive Alexa Gross, Intern Bridget Keefe, Intern
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY steering committee and staff members include Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco,
Dorothy Clark, Alison Hess, Lynn Dempsey, Neena Jacob-John, Laura Whitcomb, Alexa Gross, and Bridget Keefe.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Town-
The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Winter 2014 issue and will be published in November 2014. 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:
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
ship, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. 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. 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 above. Add $10 to cover international mailings.
Editor
1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
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 Ad file submission: dclark@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Website www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Board of School Directors Louis P. Mafrice, Jr., President Frank J. Kerber, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Barbara L. Bolas Buffy Z. Hasco Harry F. Kunselman Louis M. Oliverio Angela B. Petersen Rebecca A. Stern
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Township Board of Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3 Russell R. Del Re, Vice President, Ward 5 Nicholas J. Seitanakis, Ward 1 Rex A. Waller, Ward 2 Mark D. Christie, Ward 4 Glenn R. Dandoy, At Large Daniel R. Paoly, At Large
Fall 2014
Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Cindy Brophy, Pam Dillie, Paul Fox, Alexa Gross, Heather Holtschlag, Bridget Keefe, Angela Lucas (YWG), Bess Lynch (YWG), Jay Lynch, Louis Mafrice, Chef Anthony Marino, Ally Mesinere (YWG), Diane Morris, U. S. Congressman Tim Murphy, David Nace, MD, USC Superintendent Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Jim O’Brien, Matthew StantsPainter, DO, Helen Palascak, Debbie Rentschler, Ron Sarrick, Gary Schafer, State Senator Matt Smith, Mary Lynne Spazok, Julie Travaglini, Sydney Turwald (YWG), Maribeth Twerdok, Marilyn Walsh, and Dawn Yoder. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsc.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute. The 79th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Knepper Press 2251 Sweeney Drive, Clinton, PA 15026-1818 724-899-4274 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com
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Get back to it! Visit the Sports Medicine and Spine Center. Jose Ramirez-Del Toro, M.D. and Justin Petrolla, M.D. specialize in non operative treatment options for sports and work injuries, arthritic conditions and spine pain. Cutting-edge non-surgical rehabilitation Diagnostic and therapeutic treatments Advanced interventional pain procedures Patient-centered care
1145 Bower Hill Road, Suite 301 412-276-7022 theorthopedicgroup.com Members of The Orthopedic Group
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Scott L. Baron, M.D.; Thomas F. Brockmeyer, M.D., Ph.D.; William T. DeCarbo, D.P.M.; Mark Hofbauer, D.P.M.; Alexander Kandabarow, M.D.; Richard Mitchell, M.D.; and Ari E. Pressman, M.D. Fall 2014
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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A Fall Note from the Publishers Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole
Matthew R. Serakowski
Welcome to the fall 2014 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our community magazine’s 79 issue and our biennial Residential Guide, provided to you as a centerfold pullout (pages 45-52). In addition to this guide, which includes a lot of “go to” USC information, we offer you three advertising guides—Dining, Educational Resource, and Health & Wellness—peppered throughout the magazine for your reference. With telling signs of summer’s end evident, we are ready to greet the fall season in all its colorful splendor. For some this means the return to school and, for all, new adventures. TODAY did not break this summer from investigating all the great news about our Township and School District. Energized, the staff of TODAY was out and about gathering information to share with you and talking with newsmakers to develop stories that keep you informed about what’s going on. Cover to cover, you’ll find interesting reads and the opportunity to learn more about USC, the place we call “home.” th
Greetings from the Township and School District Central Office staff
The Township’s ten-year Comprehensive Plan for 2015-2025 is underway. Read about it on page 22 and get active in the decisions for its formulation. Park improvements, innovative Recreation Department and The Outdoor Classroom offerings, and exciting library happenings are all great reasons to expand what you do and what new things might be fun to try right here in our own Township. This past school year was filled with many awards for the District, and likewise for its distinguished school board, attentive administration, and highly acclaimed schools. Read various articles about the accolades bestowed on USCSD on pages 57 and 70. One of TODAY’s feature stories, “Meet,” found on page 62, introduces you to our 2014-15 school building PTA/PTSO presidents. Get to know who they are and why they chose to volunteer by reading this interesting Q&A article. If we had to sum up our publishers’ letter for this issue, it would be “get involved!” The Township and School District actively engage our wonderful residents who are so willing to step up and help out, making our community a great place to live! Want to find out how to get more involved? Give us a call… anytime.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 • Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org
Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 • Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home
usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
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Buon Cibo, Buon Vino, Buoni Amici
At Your Service is Chef Anthony Marino for Don’s Appliances Mary Lynne Spazok
Standing in one of Don’s Appliances showroom kitchen vignettes are KDKA’s Kristine Sorensen and Chef Anthony Marino
At Don’s barbecue cook off, left to right, are Chris Hoke, Terry Hillebrand, Tim Hillebrand, Matt Hillebrand, Phil Bourque, Bob Pompeani, Bryan Trottier, and Nick Hillebrand. (Photo credit: Roy Engelbrecht Photography)
Don’s Appliances is excited to debut “in house” corporate chef Anthony Marino. A family-owned business of 43 years, Don’s realizes that little can match the power of personal service. Chef Anthony will elevate your shopping experience to a sophisticated level of expertise. Celeb chefs energize countless TV shows where the kitchens are sleek and include the latest and greatest, the biggest and the best, and are complete with every nifty gadget to achieve gourmet success. For consumers however, whether storefront or Internet, appliance selection and purchase can be daunting. Receptive to shopper frustration, Don’s “Try it before you buy it” interactive experience applies smart technology and stellar design. Cutting-edge kitchen displays with functioning dishwashers, cook tops, and, of course, the “must see” steam oven enhance the experience at Upper St. Clair’s Highland Road store location. Chef Anthony states, “The right choices in the kitchen, including nutrition consideration and appliance selection, whether large or small, will lead to a lifechanging experience for your entire family. Individual guidance up front and specialized assistance over the life of any kitchenrelated appliance purchase are a must. Our clients are valued; their satisfaction is our number one concern.” 10
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Trust- and service-minded patriarch Don Hillebrand asserts, “You cannot buy or inherit reputation, it’s something you earn. Ultimately, store and product reputations are based on what happens after the sale.” Competent service specialists at Don’s repeatedly attain the honor of “Top 100 Servicer” by Sub-Zero/Wolf, and certified technicians consistently achieve grade “A” ratings from more than 25 brands. Don states, “I want the customer to enter our service wheel at any point from beginning to end knowing that we communicate clearly, honor promises and warranties, are reliable, and are considerate of their time and concerns. With dedicated sales associates, effective products, and the expertise of Chef Anthony, the ultimate goal is an exemplary experience.” We all know that the kitchen is central to the hearts and homes of many Pittsburgh families. Chef Anthony states, “My grandfather’s work as an executive chef at local universities as well as presiding over the prestigious kitchen at the Omni William Penn Hotel hold much significance for me.” Now retired from H.J. Heinz, Anthony’s father, Michael, relished a lifetime career of sustainable food development evolving from the agricultural farm to the family table. As one new idea flowed to the next, Michael blended good old-fashioned product excellence with unparalleled modern-day innovation. Needless to say, Chef Anthony’s mom’s (Marie Marino) pantry showcases a classic American icon— Heinz® ketchup. But, at the holidays, must haves at the Marino table include Bananas Foster cake (see recipe in the Dining Guide on page 12), Mother-in-Law pecan pie, and Pap Mike’s chestnut stuffing. A native of Bloomfield and alumnus of Central Catholic High School, Anthony chose the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, New York, to develop his career.
College graduation led to Duquesne University, where, as the senior catering chef, he administered a multi-million dollar enterprise. Marino’s favorite media chefs are Marcus Samuelsson (comfort food specialist) and Scott Conant (bold Italian). Worthy of that uniquely tall white hat, toque blanche, their superlative work ethic set a clear-cut, competent model to follow. Health and well-being start from the inside out! Chef Anthony is all about real food, fresh ingredients, sweet indulgences, sipping, savoring, and sharing. Whether scouring vintage cookbooks or selecting farm fresh eggs, life is about one delicious bite at a time. Family meals promote good eating habits and nutritional awareness. Choose a favorite food, create the grocery list, and then prepare. Invite the kids to help with all stages. Fun foods, alluring aromas, and pleasing tastes combined with cherished mealtime memories of great conversation, hearty laughs, and appreciative smiles are an award-winning recipe for anyone to savor. So, what defines an award-winning chef? Flair? A sixth sense? A magic touch? Certainly, it’s something special that elevates any food he prepares, whether tangy tempura or flaming fajitas, into a scrumptious experience. Formal education and on-the-job training are both “a must” to effectively supervise all aspects of a professional kitchen. After all, the buck stops with the chef. Do you dread cooking? Common reasons to avoid cooking include cost, boredom, and little free time. Apart from the invention of the microwave, cooking hasn’t really changed much over the last century. Fads come and go, but basic methods of food preparation remain constant. Today, the purchase of inexpensive kitchen gadgets makes the day-to-day, humdrum chores more convenient, less annoying, and, maybe even, fun. Timesavers, including hand held (immersion) multiple blade blenders and slow cookers, often come with clever recipes. In addition, quick perusals through periodicals and online queries provide a vast array of device-specific ideas sure to spark the taste buds. Armed with an arsenal of stress-free recipes, low-maintenance prep gadgets are a must for the less-than-enthusiastic among us. Ah, the gourmet aficionado! Their kitchen is an artist’s canvas and its gizmos and accessories brushes and paint. To churn out an endless parade of new creations, the selective choice of execution equipment is a must. Core functions are carried out between the cook top, the sink, and the refrigerator. The “work triangle” pairs convenient proximity with ease of functionality.
Exploring the vision of a new build or remodel strategy? In 2015, Don’s will unveil its fifth showroom, Don’s Experience Center, in nearby Robinson Township, where a state-of-the-art cooking theatre and chic kitchen vignettes will inspire. Most every kitchen, even the camper or motor home kitchen, makes frequent use of a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. It is hard to imagine life without them. Beyond merely keeping food cold, a well-designed refrigerator promotes well-organized contents. Less spoilage means more cost-effective use of your dollars. Who doesn’t use a microwave to boil water, pop popcorn, or heat leftovers? Expand your microwave repertoire to include a fresh entree of white wine chicken and peppers or a thrifty, but scrumptious, beef and rice casserole. Man does not live by salad alone; hearty microwave meals can be prepared in a flash! And, without a doubt, the addition of a dishwasher is the single easiest upgrade that undeniably boosts a home’s property value. Thus, replacement of all outdated appliances with energy saving, quieter, and more user-friendly technology is prudent. Whether you are looking at a new build, a kitchen remodel, or an essential kitchen appliance replacement, state-of-the-art appliances are paramount to complement your culinary intrigue and desires. Presented with a kitchen that inspires, even the most reluctant of cooks will become masters of their domain. Remember Don’s motto: “Try it before you buy it.” The proper kitchen choices, including nutritional consideration and appliance selection, will lead to a life-changing experience. Chef Anthony concludes, “To broaden my culinary horizon, frequent visits to the vast array of New York City bistros are a must. In my free time, I enjoy vigorous exercise and I am an advocate of Breast Cancer Awareness in honor of my loving grandmother. A top priority of mine is the annual Race for the Cure held each Mother’s Day. My wife, Kendra, is a graduate of the Duquesne University School of Pharmacy. Our favorite leisure travel destinations include Santorini, Greece, and California’s Napa Valley. Wine enthusiasts, my brothers, Adam and Mike, and I blend our own contemporary full-bodied domestic. And, for all its enjoyment, I aspire to celebrate the diverse flavors of Pittsburgh’s varied ethnic heritage. Buon cibo, buon vino, buoni amici, which means good food, good wine, good friends!” Trust is the epicenter of Don’s service wheel of sales, and service is their foundation for success. Since 1971, both concepts have led consumers, over and over again, to Don’s for exceptional brands and exceptional service. Stop by to check out the new innovative interactive experience at Don’s Appliances, helping you to choose the appliance that meets your needs. n True Pitt fans, Dan Marino and Chef Anthony Marino
Left to right are Michael, Anthony, and Marie Marino
Don’s Appliances kitchenette, televised on KDKA’s Pittsburgh Today Live at 9 a.m., showcases Chef Anthony’s tasty recipes and clever cooking tips for every meal and every occasion. With the holidays around the corner, click on “Chef Center” at www.donsappliances.com for scrumptious recipes, including Mother-in-Law pecan pie and Pap Mike’s chestnut stuffing. Questions? Email Don’s culinary concierge at chefanthony@donsappliances.com. Fall 2014
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Dining Guide
Bananas Foster Cake Recipe By Chef Anthony Marino
Kous Kous Café
a popular Moroccan restaurant Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon
Hours: Dinner–Tuesday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m. Brunch–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Reservations Recommended
412-563-5687
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Fall 2014
Cake Ingredients: • 1 cup butter • 1 cup sugar • 1 cup brown sugar • 5 large eggs • 3 cups flour • 1tsp baking soda • 1/4 tsp salt • 1 cup milk • 3 bananas mashed • 1tsp vanilla
Dining Guide
Directions: Together, cream butter and sugars. Add eggs until well unified. Scrape down bowl. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing, add flour mixture, alternating with milk. Add mashed bananas and vanilla. Once folded, pour batter into two greased/floured round cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 2530 minutes until golden brown. Once removed, cool completely before assembling.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients: • 2 8 oz packages cream cheese • 2 16 oz packages powdered sugar • 1 cup butter, softened • 4 tsp vanilla • 2 Tbsp milk Directions: Add cream cheese to mixer. Slowly add powdered sugar, then add butter and vanilla, and finish with milk. Chill and reserve for assembly. Assembly: Slice each cake in half, making four discs. Add a small amount of frosting on the bottom cake and then add frosting between each cake layer until fully assembled.
Gourmet Burgers Bountiful Chopped Salads Brick Oven Pizzas Local and Craft Beers Fresh, Quality Ingredients Food, Friends and Fun!
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Fall 2014
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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More Than One Use for a… Turkey Baster? Jay Lynch
My parents lived in USC on Mitchell Drive from 1957 until my mother recently moved into an elder care facility this past year. My father, Jack Lynch, who died in 1999, was one of the founders of little league baseball in USC. A plaque in his honor adorns one of the benches at the Eisenhower School playground. My mother, Bonnie, was a teacher at Eisenhower and active in the PTA for many years. An important part of our wonderful lives in USC has been humor, including neighbors and friends who appreciated the endlessly entertaining interactions between my parents. Depending on your age, you might think of them as Gracie and George Burns, Fred and Wilma Flintstone, or Homer and Marge Simpson. Like many men who lived through the great depression, my father was frugal, self-reliant, and creative when it came to maintaining and repairing our family cars. Soup cans and cheap clamps held tailpipes together and vice-grip pliers permanently replaced missing knobs and handles. My mother admired my father’s attempts to save money and adapted well to most of his unique approaches to car repair. For example, she knew that switching from KQV to KDKA required exactly one quarter turn on the mini vice-grip that replaced her radio’s tuning knob. However, some of his expense-delaying tactics made her uneasy, like his decision to put jumper cables in the trunk of her car to avoid buying a new battery. One of his more creative solutions resulted in her public embarrassment, and probably a few belly laughs in the Pittsburgh police locker room. During the winter of 1970, the windshield washer pump motor on my mother’s car failed. She had plenty of washer fluid and her wipers worked well, but the broken pump made it impossible
1960s photo of Bonnie and Jack Lynch
for her to clean the slush and dirt off her windshield, making driving dangerous. My father’s solution? Replace the pump? Of course not, as it would have been too expensive. Instead, he strapped a fivegallon plastic water jug to the back of the driver’s seat and filled it with washer fluid. Then, he “borrowed” my mother’s turkey baster from her kitchen drawer and stuck it in the hole in the top corner of the jug. His instructions to my mother were straightforward: “When you’re driving in bad weather and having trouble seeing out the windshield, follow these steps. First, roll down your window (using the vice-grip, of course). Then, as you drive with your right hand, reach your left hand behind your seat. Squeeze and
Dancing Down the Aisle with a Smile, Again Jim O’Brien
A famous philosopher, whose name escapes me at the moment, said, “Once in a while you have to have the courage to be a fool.” For consideration, let’s change that to… have the courage to be foolish. Two instances of that alternative quote come to mind, and they both involve my wife, Kathie. They were preludes perhaps to our 30th wedding anniversary celebrated on August 12, 1997. They were little things, but then again, some other philosopher or songwriter told us that little things mean a lot. On a muggy day when temperatures were in the 90s, Kathie and I completed a series of tennis lessons offered by Upper St. Clair’s Department of Parks and Recreation. After playing tennis for about 30 years, we still hoped we could get better at it. Janice Irwin, the tennis director, has always been easy to work with. Patience is her game. We had just come away from the courts, and we were sweaty and our tennis outfits were sticking to us. Kathie had to pick up a few items at Foodland on Fort Couch Road. (Foodland gave way to Petco at that site many years ago.) It was a relief to enter the grocery store, where it was nearly frigid. We were in the dairy aisle, when a familiar song came over the P.A. system: Old Time Rock & Roll by Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. Slipping and sliding in the aisle, I started doing a little 14
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dance of my own. What the heck, it was nearly ten o’clock at night and no one else, except Kathie and me, was visible in the aisle. Kathie, who was pushing our cart, suddenly stepped away from it and asked, “Do you wanna dance?” Her Jim and Kathie O’Brien inquiry was a song title in itself. There was something about the way she said it… so sweet, so spontaneous that it captured my heart. So we danced. There was something seemingly dangerous about it that enhanced the excitement. What would someone think if they came down the aisle and saw us dancing? At Foodland? In tennis whites? At ten o’clock on a Monday night? The thought struck me that if we could dance like that in the aisle at Foodland, maybe we could make this marriage work for another 30 years. I hope so. We celebrate our 47th wedding anniversary this August. I’ve always loved to dance. As a teenager, I used to go to two or three dances a month, mostly at Catholic schools. In those
release the bubble of the turkey baster. This will fill it with washer fluid. Turn on the windshield wipers. Stick your arm out the window, curl it around the windshield pillar and squeeze the bubble. Be careful to avoid the wiper blades as they might knock the turkey baster out of your hand. Repeat as necessary.” His solution was clumsy in traffic and humorous to other drivers, but it worked. However, there were unintended consequences. One day, my mother was driving on Potomac Avenue in Dormont, headed toward its intersection with Banksville Road. The approach to Banksville is a very long, steep downhill slope. Her brakes failed as she headed down the hill. She pumped the brakes and pulled on the emergency brake lever, but nothing worked. She was in free fall, heading down the hill, and gaining speed. She desperately honked the horn to warn other drivers. Luckily, the light was green as she barreled through the intersection. Another stroke of luck was that a police car was nearby. The cop heard her blaring horn and saw her flash through the intersection. He wisely concluded that her brakes had failed and followed her with his lights flashing and siren wailing to warn other drivers. When her car reached an uphill slope, he pulled his car behind hers and let her drift backward, safely into his front bumper. Thankfully, the danger was over. Unfortunately, when my mother’s car was in its steep, bumpy, downhill descent, the windshield washer fluid splashed forward, out of the jug. So, when the cop got out of his car and quickly walked to my mother’s car window, he saw a very scared lady, soaked from the waist down. He very politely said, “Good to see you’re uninjured, ma’am. I can see that you were very frightened. I promise not to tell anyone about your, uh, little accident.” My mother responded, “Oh, no, officer. It’s not what you think! The turkey baster must have fallen out of the hole!” The cop responded, “I’ve never heard it expressed quite that way, ma’am, but I won’t tell anyone. I promise. Let’s get you out of the car and into a warm blanket. I’ll call a tow truck.” The police called my father at work. When he picked my mother up at the station, he smelled washer fluid and marital trouble. That incident resulted in a new windshield washer pump, religious car maintenance by authorized mechanics, authentic replacements for radio knobs and window cranks, and more traditional uses for turkey basters. n
days, the girls didn’t ask boys to dance. Some of the girls even said “No, thanks” after you walked 25 yards across the floor in front of your buddies to ask them. After the rejection, the walk back took forever because you felt like such a loser, or so we thought when we were 15 or 16 years old. When you did have the chance to dance and if you’d get too cozy or danced too close, some nun or chaperone was sure to tap you on the shoulder and caution you to “leave room for the Holy Ghost” between your bodies. Dancing that night at Foodland was a warm-up to attending a wedding and reception at Princeton University the following weekend where we danced the night away. For the first time, I even danced the polka. For years, I watched with envy as others danced the polka. It looked like such great fun. I decided I could do it, dancing with my heart instead of thinking about the rigid “1-2-3” steps of the dance. I think I got away with it. Kathie comes from Croatian stock on her mother’s side of the family, so the polka is in her genes. And she was game. At that wedding, I also learned never to wear a blue shirt when you’re dancing in the summer. When you sweat, the stains show. Late in the evening, I retreated to a room at the hotel and used a hair dryer to blow my shirt dry. I was hoping to get back to the dance floor in time for the disco song Last Dance by Donna Summer, but I was too late. I was dry, but the dancing was over. By the time I returned, everyone was exchanging hugs and kisses and good-byes. On our way home to Pittsburgh the next day, Kathie recalled something funny about the night before and she couldn’t stop laughing. For me, her laugh was the sweet sound of music and I enjoyed the memory of dancing down the aisle with her all over again. n Jim O’Brien, an Upper St. Clair resident for 35 years, has authored the book A Winning Way about Steelers’ Hall of Fame football coach Chuck Noll, who lived in Upper St. Clair for 25 years. It is available on Amazon.com or at Jim’s website at www.jimobriensportsauthor.com. Fall 2014
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Back by popular demand
Oktoberfest Craft Beer Tasting
Join us for a casual evening
of craft beers and tasty bites.
All proceeds benefit the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
7 p.m. - 10 p.m. St. Thomas More Family Life Center 134 Fort Couch Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 $40 donation per person (includes souvenir glass and samples of American and European brews)
Deadline for registration: September 30, 2014 Please visit www.cfusc.org to register online. Must be 21 or older to attend. Please bring proper I.D.
A Sampling of Recent COMMUNITY FOUNDATION of USC Activities & Events The mission of CFUSC is to enhance the many advantages of living in Upper St. Clair by providing support for programs and projects that are not funded through taxes: • A grant of $15,000 was provided to Casey’s Clubhouse/Miracle Field for the playground project at the C&RC. • Released $6,000 of Education Income Tax Credit (EITC) held by CFUSC, thanks to the generous donation of local business enterprises, enabling all Second Grade students to attend The Outdoor Classroom. • Supported the USC Volunteer Fire Department with a $2,000 grant for the winter USC TODAY cover. • Sponsored the PSO Musician’s Care Concert. • Continued shuttle bus service for patrons of Town Hall South. For a complete list of CFUSCʼs activities, go to www.cfusc.org
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Upper St. Clair High School 2014 College Scholarship Recipients Ted Barnett Scholarship ~ Grace Chen Mary Elena Batz Scholarship ~ Melody MacLachlan William A. Pope Scholarship ~ Benjamin Haus Joanne Szymanski Memorial Scholarship ~ Jacquelynn Ross T.J. White Scholarship ~ Giuseppe Orsini Patrick O’Brien Memorial Scholarship ~ To be awarded to a graduate of Baker Elementary Class of 2020. The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is the depository for these funds. For more information on the scholarship program, go to www.cfusc.org.
A Silver Tea 2014 CFUSC Giving Tea Hosted by Jill Vissman
Thank you to all who participated!
Mary Jo Elliott & Celeste Acinapura
Tina Fruecht, Robin Teklinski & Jill Vissman
Leanne Adamo & Jodi Zegarelli Peggy Snavely, Mariam Richardson & Barbara Bolas
Michele Mandler, Christine Vinay & Laura Jones
Caricature Artist captures Cathy Davin
Barbara Lloyd, Lyn Benonis, Rachel Lowden, Buffy Hasco & Terrie Piatt
Dawn Predmore & Kim Hyatt
Make-up Artist with Seema Ekbote Cindy Parknavy & Annette Petrone
Connie Murphy, Michele Aduir & Mary Kay Petrini
Marylou Rubright & Beth Erlanger
Karen Davidson & Sylvie Del Duca
To see more photos from the Tea, go to www.cfusc.org COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF UPPER ST. CLAIR 2585 Washington Rd, Suite 131 • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 (412) 831-1107 ~ info@cfusc.org ~ www.cfusc.org
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Angela Petersen & her caricature
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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20 Years and Going Strong
sary! As the Upper St. Clair community’s signature publication, the staff of TODAY does an exceptional job of highlighting School District and Township happenings and events, and providing interesting readings. Thanks for providing such a wonderful showcase for Upper St. Clair—just another example of what makes our community such a special place in which to live and learn! —USC Board of School Directors By sharing noteworthy local stories and events of interest, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY brings our community to life. I look forward to each edition and wish TODAY staff continued success for the next 20 years. —Congressman Tim Murphy, USC resident representing Pennsylvania’s 18th congressional district I applaud UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY for keeping the community connected and informed. The magazine is truly the go-to source for what is happening in the Township and School District by showcasing the special people, events, organizations, and businesses that make Upper St. Clair special. I look forward to the next 20 years of excellence. —State Senator Matt Smith As a good citizen of Upper St. Clair, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY continues to lead the way in honoring our veterans, our young citizens, and older citizens, as well as the many organizations and businesses that shape our community. Thank you for 20 years! —The Upper St. Clair Veterans Park Committee 18
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
We look forward to the day when we can say we’ve been serving Upper St. Clair for as long and as well as USC TODAY. Congratulations on 20 years and we look forward to having the staff and readers of TODAY around for many years to come. —Jessica Kester, Program Manager, The Outdoor Classroom The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair has had a wonderful relationship with USC TODAY since its inception. TODAY is an integral part of the community because it is a source of information for the community, by the community. TODAY works hand-in-hand with the Community Foundation’s mission of “enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” Congratulations on 20 great years and best wishes for many more! —Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair
FALL 2010
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t. Cl a ir
Congratulations to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY on celebrating its 20-year anniver-
As a lifelong USC resident and reader of every issue of TODAY, I congratulate and thank the writers and staff for 20 years of great work. I really love the stories and pictures of Upper St. Clair that they share in each edition. —Jerry Kopach Jr., President, Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department
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of publication. Other area magazines have come and gone, but TODAY remains as the standard-bearer for municipal and school district publications. Thanks again for what you do for our community! —USC Township Commissioners
The challenge of history is to recover the past and introduce it to the present. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, thank you for doing just that! —Historical Society of USC
pp e
We would like to congratulate UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY as it celebrates 20 years
Fall 2014
Dear UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, congratulations for 20 years of publishing! The magazine is a unique concept for a community—the Township and School District working together to create an awardwinning publication with gifted volunteers and a part time staff. Each issue takes time, energy, talent, and effort. The community is fortunate to have such creative people to put together each issue. It was a great idea to use community volunteers who work together to gather information, write, design, edit, proofread, take photos, and organize the contributions, making each issue a coffee table magazine that no one wants to throw away. There have been many people who contributed to the magazine during the early years. People, including Kathy Slencak, Doug Watkins, Bill Pope, Dina Fulmer, John Kotzuk, Nancy Brown, Paul Fox, Tom Labanc, Bob Broggi, Suzanne Vernon, Dawn McQuillan, Susan Depe, Nancy Barnard, Ginny Stempkowski, Jim Meston, Sandy and Marshall Goldstein, Bev Pini, Cande Day, and many more, who contributed countless hours to make the magazine the success that it is. Thanks for the memories and best wishes for the next 20 years! —Harla Brown, TODAY Editor (1995-2003) It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years! Congratulations to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY for providing 20 years of valuable, interesting, and informative communication to the residents of Upper St. Clair. For any school district and municipality, effective communication with the public is critical to a successful operation. The magazine is a key instrument in providing this connection with constituents and it is done with quality, enthusiasm, and professionalism. The School District and Township partnership in this venture symbolizes the uniqueness of the USC community. Congratulations! —Terry Kushner, former USCHS principal
STATE SENATOR MATT SMITH Mt. Lebanon District Office: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 319 Castle Shannon Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 Phone: 412-571-2169 Fax: 412-571-2000 Peters Township Satellite: Tues & Thurs 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Peters Twp. Municipal Building, 610 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317 Phone: 724-942-7210 Fax: 724-942-7211 www.SenatorMattSmith.com Twitter: @SenMattSmith Facebook: SenMattSmith
Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Deadline Extended State Senator Matt Smith
I am happy to announce that seniors now have an additional six months to submit an application for the Property Tax/ Rent Rebate program. The program puts money back in the pockets of older Pennsylvanians via a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2013. The application deadline for the program has been extended from June 30 to December 31, 2014. The eligibility guidelines remain the same. The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians ages 65 and older; widows and widowers ages 50 and older; and people with disabilities ages 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for
renters. Half of Social Security income is excluded from the income calculation. Pennsylvania lottery-funded programs like this are an important support for older adults and adults with disabilities. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program has provided over $5.6 billion in relief since it began more than 40 years ago. My local staff and I stand ready to help you determine whether you are eligible for a rebate and to work with you to obtain and file your application. A rebate can make a huge difference in the budget of a senior citizen and individuals on a fixed income. The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental
Fall 2014
rebates for qualifying homeowners can increase the rebate amount to $975. Rebate distribution began on July 1. After June 30, applications are processed and rebates distributed as they are received by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Applicants may check the status of their applications Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms (PA-1000) and related information online at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling, toll-free, 1-888-222-9190. As always, I welcome your feedback on this program or any state matter. n Visit www.SenatorMattSmith.com for more news, updates, and assistance.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Tim Murphy U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 2332 Rayburn HOB, 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 2040 Frederickson Place, Route 136, Greensburg, PA 15601 Phone: 724-850-7312 • Fax: 724-850-7315 Website: http://murphy.house.gov
Restoring Accountability and Excellence in Medical Care at the VA Congressman Tim Murphy
In June, Congressman Mike Doyle and I discovered the existence of a primary care waiting list at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) of almost 700 veterans, some of whom had been waiting for appointments since 2012. The revelation came about as a new report showed delayed care had tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 23 veterans across the country and that more than 57,000 veteran patients nationally have been waiting at least 90 days for their first VA medical appointment. Following this shocking discovery, Rep. Doyle and I wrote to the VA Inspector requesting a full report on how appointments
are recorded at VAPHS, as well as how supervisors oversee the intake system. We wanted to know how the backlog occurred, who was responsible, and what can be done to ensure it never happens again. The wait list shows that the Department of Veterans Affairs doesn’t fully understand the extent of its own problems. This concern dates back to December 2012 when I directed the VA Office of Inspector General to conduct an independent review of the Legionnaires’ outbreak at VAPHS. That report found significant operational and management failures that resulted in the preventable deaths of six veterans. Only now are we beginning to see change.
Despite efforts by VA officials to stymie congressional oversight, the shocking discoveries in Pittsburgh and elsewhere activated the House of Representatives to take hold of the bureaucratic malaise at the VA and enact tough legislation to guarantee that veterans needing immediate care are able to get it. Recently, Congress passed legislation to make it easier to fire senior VA officials who aren’t doing their jobs. In June, I joined as an original co-sponsor of the Veterans Access to Care Act (H.R. 4810) authored by House Committee on Veterans Affairs Chairman Jeff Miller. The bill requires the VA to reimburse for non-VA medical care provided to any veteran who cannot get quick access to treatment or lives farther than 40 miles from a VA facility. The legislation also requires an independent assessment of VA Healthcare System performance and bans any bonuses for VA employees who aren’t doing their jobs. The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 4810 with my support. The Senate passed a similar measure, and House and Senate leaders have been meeting to hammer out a final package that can be signed into law.
Let Them Eat Cake
by Diane Morris
Traveling with my husband, George, we arrived on Friday afternoon by train by way of Paris to visit our son, Pete, and his family in Brussels. Our daughter-in-law, Carolynn, arrived home from a business trip to the States, the same day by plane by way of London. Our luggage arrived; unfortunately, hers did not. Carolynn’s luggage contained 24 Betty Crocker cake mixes. She had volunteered to make a cake to feed 450 parishioners for our grandson, Kenny’s, First Holy Communion that Sunday. Very organized and ambitious, Carolynn believed she allowed enough time to complete the baking task. She’d heard rumors pertaining to previous First Holy Communion receptions where they ran out of cake and the baker was either “excommunicated, stoned, or burned at the stake.” She was determined not to meet the same fate! Accommodating just two cake pans, each holding two cake mixes and taking an hour to bake, Carolynn realized that the small oven in their 1930s home would pose a problem and arranged for help from her friend, Ana. Unfortunately, when Carolynn should have started her baking project, her luggage (and the cake mixes) were still in London, which the airline promised to have delivered by Friday night. The clock was ticking, but Carolynn was confident that she could make the 9 a.m. Sunday deadline. Ana’s husband, Vio, had constructed a 6' by 4' wooden platform in the shape of a cross, on which the huge cake would rest. While we waited for the cake mixes to arrive, Carolynn and Ana covered the cross with purple felt and a layer of plastic wrap. They made bowls of frosting with ten Standing near the cake are Adela, with her pounds of sugar and 48 egg whites. Meanwhile, parents Ana and Vio Ciubuc; Kenny, with his Pete and Vio made a trial run with the cross to parents Carolynn and Pete Morris; Diane and George Morris (Kenny’s grandparents); make sure they could get it out of the kitchen and Caroline Morris (Kenny’s sister) 20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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I’m committed to doing everything in my power to restore the trust between veterans and the VA. A positive first step in that direction would be for the Administration to choose a new Secretary of Veterans Affairs who has executive-level experience administering and operating a large health center or medical network. VA facilities should also partner with local medical centers of excellence that can provide recommendations on programs to continue and ones that should be dissolved. For example, the VA in Cleveland could partner with the Cleveland Clinic to avoid duplication and provide higher quality of care. Finally, the VA must end the practice of awarding large individual bonuses using metrics that invite “cooking the books.” To stay informed about my ongoing efforts to restore accountability and promote high-quality care at the VA, sign up for my weekly email newsletter at Murphy.House.Gov. If you are a veteran or know of a veteran who needs assistance with the VA or related federal agencies, contact my district office located in the South Hills at 412-344-5583. Caseworkers are standing by ready to assist you. n door and that it would fit in the van on a flat surface. Finally, shortly before noon on Saturday, the luggage arrived and the two bakers went to work. Pete got my husband and me out of the way. Along with our granddaughter, Caroline, we went to watch Kenny play in a football (soccer) tournament. He played three matches and had the winning goal in two of them. When we arrived back home, the bakers were hard at work. Some cakes were chocolate (Devil’s food) and some white (Angel food). When we headed off to bed, Carolynn and Ana were frosting the cake and 18 purple cupcakes to form a white cross with lavender decorations. At midnight, I woke up and went into the kitchen to check on the baker’s progress. With nine hours to go and still frosting and decorating, time was running short and becoming a concerning factor. I went quietly back to bed. While I slept, the project was completed. However, when Pete and Vio attempted to take the finished cake out to the car they discovered that they had a serious problem. Afraid that even a slight tilt of the wooden frame would cause the cake that sat upon it to slide off, they were unable to
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maneuver it through either door that led from the kitchen to the outside. By 2 a.m. and becoming desperate, they successfully carried the cake out of the house through a double-wide kitchen window. When I awoke Sunday for my early morning walk, the kitchen was clean and the cake was resting securely in the van. As scheduled, it was carefully driven to the church for the 9 a.m. service. In anticipation of displaying the cake, the ladies of the church readied and decorated one large table where it would be placed. However, because of the cake’s enormous size, two tables were required. Carolynn, prepared as usual, brought a purple cloth large enough to cover both tables. Meeting the deadline, the cake was put in its place of honor. I personally thought that Carolynn was one step closer to sainthood; in my estimation, she performed a miracle. I was sure that we would be eating cake at every meal for the rest of our visit, but every morsel of the cake was consumed at the reception, as well as all the cupcakes, too! That night, Pete took us all out for a lovely dinner and none of us ordered cake for dessert! n Fall 2014
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T Township Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski
President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2015*
Russell R. Del Re
Vice President, Ward 5 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-287-9076 2015*
Nicholas J. Seitanakis Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-220-4434 2015*
Rex A. Waller Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-5065 2017*
Mark D. Christie Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 2017*
Photo courtesy of Glenn Prokopovitch
The Township’s Comprehensive Plan is Coming Together
What do you love about Upper St. Clair and what do you think will help to ensure a bright and successful future for your community? These questions are at the heart of the ongoing comprehensive planning process that will result in an updated ten-year plan for the Township. Resident input has been crucial in formulating successful comprehensive plan ideas that reflect the desires and needs of the community. Thousands of Township residents have provided ideas to further community success in Upper St. Clair as part of the Township’s 2015-2025 Comprehensive Plan update. This document, framing out strategies for action, examines the relationships of land use, infrastructure, connectivity, and services. Search the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) for an announcement about the special community Open House. This Open House will occur to present the initial recommendations from the Comprehensive Plan update. Residents, business owners, and others interested in the future of Upper St. Clair are invited to come and meet the planning team, respond to initial ideas, and offer insights into how the Township should evolve in the future. Ideas gathered at the Open House will be used to affirm the community’s desired direction for long-term planning. Additional public events will be held in the coming months where plan components can be reviewed. Implementation of the plan’s recommendations will occur throughout the next ten or more years. Some concepts will be realized relatively quickly, while others may become building blocks for longer-term initiatives. n
Glenn R. Dandoy At-Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-944-3957 2015*
Daniel R. Paoly At-Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2017*
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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2014 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.
• The Parks and Recreation Board meets at the C&RC the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Service Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed. • The Library Board meets as needed.
www.twpusc.org 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. Fall 2014
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Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings
The Township of Upper St. Clair
March 3, 2014
Federal and State Elected Officials
Approximately 18 people attended.
Recognition • Commissioner Christie presented a Proclamation to Nathan Alexander Swiech, of Boy Scout Troup #4, recognizing his attainment of Eagle Scout rank. Nathan, a junior at USCHS, completed his Eagle Scout project by constructing 12 barn owl nesting boxes and installing them near The Outdoor Classroom and in several places in Boyce Mayview and Gilfillan Parks. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 2-14 Re. PLC14-0004 granting Final Land Development approval to the Goddard School, 631 Painters Run Road, subject to certain conditions. • Adopted Resolution No. 1577 to authorize the Township to enter into a grant agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for automated red light enforcement funding for upgrades at the intersection of Bethel Church Road and McMurray Road. • Adopted Resolution No. 1578 to authorize the filing of an application for funds through the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) State Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to acquire a residential property located at 108 Hays Road. • Adopted Resolution No. 1579 confirming that the Township is formally requesting a grant for funds through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in the amount of $250,000 to be used for the extension to the Perimeter Trail of Boyce Mayview Park. Approval of Contracts (Pennsylvania company, unless otherwise stated) 2014 Street Improvement Program • Concrete Coring Company, Inc. Herman...............................................................$20,750 2014 street crack sealing • El Grande Industries, Inc. Monessen..................................................$1,178,307.40 2014 annual street resurfacing w/alternate Fleet vehicles • Allegheny Ford Truck Sales, Inc. Pittsburgh............................................................$70,560 (2) 2014 Ford F-550 cab & chassis XL 4x4 trucks • Sabre Equipment, Inc. Coraopolis...........................................................$16,380 (1) Magnum 9' aluminum flatbed body w/fuel tank • Whitmoyer Auto Group Mt. Joy.................................................................$33,875 (1) 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD special service police vehicle • Woltz & Wind Ford, Inc. Heidelberg (1) 2014 Ford Utility police interceptor.............$27,507 (1) 2014 Ford Sedan police interceptor..............$25,473 $52,980 Public Works Equipment • Don Parker Sales, Inc. Pittsburgh (1) Replacement of hydraulic fore and $26,304.46 aft lift for mechanic garage (1) Rebuild of hydraulic rear jack assembly $12,474.16 w/manual safety leg for mechanic garage $38,778.62 • Jeffrey Associates Indianola...........................................................$250,064 Equipment for the Miracle League playground • W. C. Weil Company Allison Park.........................................................$35,680 (1) Franklin Miller Dimminutor Series #6598 (backup equipment for Brush Run pump station)
April 7, 2014
Approximately 24 people attended.
Recognitions • Commissioner Rex Waller presented a Proclamation to Marvin Haddox in recognition of faithfully serving as Planning Commissioner for the Township of Upper St. Clair from November 1980 through December 2013. • Commissioner Paoly presented a Proclamation to Helen Palascak, Library Director, in recognition of National Library Week, April 13-19, 2014.
Federal Government
The Board • Adopted Bill No. 3-14 Re. PLC14-0002–Leimkuehler Single Family Dwelling–Conditional Use Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 4-14 Re. PLC14-1301–Zoning Map and Text Amendment for Rezoning of 1800 Washington Road from Special Business District to Special Business-Mixed Use District. • Adopted Bill No. 5-14 Re. PLC14-1251–Amendment to Chapter 125 of the Code of the Township entitled “Vehicles and Traffic” to update Schedule VII regarding the posting of stop signs throughout the Township. • Adopted Bill No. 6-14 Re. IMP14-0001–Acceptance of Public Improvements in Reese Plan of Lots. • Adopted Resolution No. 1580 Re. the Township’s participation in the Sustainable Community Essentials Certification program. • Adopted Resolution No. 1581 Re. the Township’s participation to enter into an Agility Agreement with PennDOT for an Exchange of Services Program. • Adopted Resolution No. 1582 authorizing the disposal of Township records in accordance with the Pennsylvania Records Retention Act and the Code of the Township.
April 28, 2014
Informational and General Affairs Meeting of the Board of Commissioners 1 person attended.
The Board • Adopted Resolution No. 1583 authorizing the filing of an application for funds through the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County for lighting the Miracle Field, the Miracle Field playground area, and the multipurpose fields located within Boyce Mayview Park.
May 5, 2014
Approximately 16 people attended.
Recognitions • Commissioner Waller presented a Proclamation to Nora Helfrich, Director of Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services, proclaiming May 18-24, 2014, as National Emergency Medical Services Week in Upper St. Clair. • Commissioner Seitanakis recognized the following young men of the Upper St. Clair High School’s boys swim team for their numerous accomplishments achieved during the 2013-14 season: Ryan Dudzinski, Alex Hardwick, Patrick Lersch, Fynn Minuth, Nathan Novak, and Tomas Williams. • Commissioner Seitanakis recognized Upper St. Clair High School’s boys head swim coach, David Schaven, for being named AAA Boys “Coach of the Year” by the Pennsylvania High School Swim Coaches’ Association. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 7-14 Re. PLC14-5101–Amendment to Chapter 51 of the Code of the Township, entitled “Building Construction” and PLC14-6101, amendment to Chapter 61 of the Code of the Township, entitled “Fire Prevention” to incorporate amendments to the Uniform Construction Code. • Adopted Bill No. 8-14 Re. IMP14-0002–Acceptance of Public Improvements in Deerfield Manor Plan No. 9, Revision No. 2. Approval of Contracts (Pennsylvania company, unless otherwise stated) • Walsh Equipment Prospect...............................................................$43,950 9' aluminum dump body upfit • A & H Equipment Bridgeville.........................................................$278,825 (1) 2014 Elgin Whirlwind street sweeper
Fall 2014
Elected Executive Officials President Barack H. Obama Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Comments Line: 202-456-1111 Fax: 202-456-1414 Elected Legislative Officials U.S. Senators Website: www.senate.gov Patrick J. Toomey – 412-803-3501 Fax: 412-803-3504 Robert P. Casey, Jr. – 412-803-7370 Fax: 412-803-7379 U.S. House of Representatives Tim Murphy – 18th District 412-344-5583 • Fax 412-429-5092
Pennsylvania State Government Elected Executive Officials
800-932-0784 www.state.pa.us Governor Tom Corbett Lieutenant Governor Jim Cawley Auditor General Eugene DePasquale State Treasurer Robert McCord Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane Elected Legislative Officials State Senator Matt Smith 412-571-2169 • Fax: 412-571-2000 37th District State Representative John Maher 412-831-8080 • Fax: 412-831-8083 40th District District Judge Ron Arnoni 412-835-1661 Information from Facts for Citizens published by the League of Women Voters – 412-261-4284 www.palwv.org
VOTER REGISTRATION 412-350-4500
Registration closes October 6, 2014 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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USC Community Day
Community Day Race Results The cool, overcast morning was a runner’s haven for those who participated in Upper St. Clair’s Run for Fun 5K. Although there were no horses, there were runners, runners pushing strollers, and walkers who enjoyed the camaraderie and exercise to start off Community Day 2014, themed “Saddle Up St. Clair.” Top winner in the women’s category was Maxine Riccio, with a time of 19:25.90. Top male runner was Bennett Sneath, posting a time of 17:57.00. For a complete list of race finishers and their respective times, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and click on “Past Issues,” where a “Community Races” link can be found. Listed below are the 2014 winners in each age category: Age Group
Male (Time)
Female (Time)
8 & Under 9-11 12-14 15-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50 & Over
Brady Gilbert (23:12.10) Cole Jooste (21:39.10) Billy Lang (20:11.80) Bennett Sneath (17:57.00) Pranav Krishnan (30:56.50) Bernie O’Keefe (24:36.40) Rob Lukondi (19:46.90) James Thomas (20:22.00)
Kate Falce (31:41.30) Morgan Meddings (25:46.00) Landy Mertz (20:52.70) Andie Villella (26:26.30) Maxine Riccio (19:25.90) Dianne Gilbert (25:26.80) Kelly Tanner (25:56.30) Denise Tanarich (25:43.60)
Community Day Bike Winners USC Police Chief Douglas Burkholder and the Upper St. Clair Police Department would like to congratulate the two bicycle winners from Community Day. The winners, William Duff, a second grader from Eisenhower Elementary, and Eva Twedt, a third grader from Baker Elementary, are shown with Officer Bozic, at the Upper St. Clair Police Department, receiving their bicycles.
Float Winners
Left to right are William Duff, Officer Bozic, and Eva Twedt
Scavenger Hunt
First place: Gilfillan Farm and Homestead Second place: Chick-fil-A Cow and Calf Third place: Frownie Brownie
Winners of Community Day’s scavenger hunt, sponsored by Northwood Realty, are Tom Bennett and his son, Jackson. The prize was the grill! 24
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USC Community Day Bake Off Yields Lots of Entries Results of the 2014 Community Day bake off, sponsored by Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, are a tasty treat for the eyes of the beholder. And the winners are: Best of Show: Zoe Karidis and Kayla Senneway for No Place Like Home (also winners of the Best of Show 2013 Community Day bake off) Most Original: First–Ally Fishell for Club Sandwich Second–Fallon Winseck for Rex the Pup Third–Victoria Crowley for Rainbow Loom Most Patriotic: First–Molly Mehan for Flag States in Jello Second–Priyanka Palageka for American Flag Third–Lanie Neal for Tiers of Red, White, and Blue Favorite TV Show, Movie, or Book: First–Noor Einokali for Fancy Nancy Second–Bridget Boal for Ruby Slipper on the Yellowbrick Road Third–Lily for Minecraft
Grrrreat Dogs!
Hot dog! The results for the 2014 Community Day Hottest Dog Contest, sponsored by Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, Upper St. Clair Office are in. And the winners are: Best Dressed: Clementine (Pug) and owner, Grace Dog/Owner Look Alike: Brinkley (Cavapoo) and owner, Caroline Most Talented: Julie (Cavalier King Charles) and owner, Lauren Cutest Pup: Charlie (Golden Doodle) and owner, Marco
Scarecrow Contest The winner of the 2014 Community Day Scarecrow Contest was Sam Meyers, with the winning entry, a Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB) volunteer and a farmer. Since the majority of the produce harvested from the garden is donated to the GPCFB and its partner organizations, this is the perfect scarecrow duo for the Gilfillan garden. The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair appreciated this entry as it highlights their newly founded relationship with Common Ground and the GPCFB. Thank You to Our 2014 Community Day Patrons:
The Almanac, Aramark, Ardolino’s, Bruegger’s Bagels, Colussy Chevrolet, Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, Giant Eagle, Lorenzato Automotive Service, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Pittsburgh Fleet Feet Sports, Restorations Physical Therapy, Rex Glass & Mirror Co., Inc., South Fayette Shop ’n Save, South Hills Financial Group, Taylor Rental, and Traffic Control Equipment & Supplies Co., Inc. Fall 2014
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16th ANNUAL COMMUNITY DAY DUCK RACE PRIZE WINNERS
Pizzaz Italian Restaurant
$100 Gift Card ~ Rachel Fibbi
$100 Gift Card ~ Nataleo Oliverio $50 Gift Card ~ Maureen Williams
$50 Gift Card ~ Michael Binkley 1st PLACE PRIZE iPad Mini ~ Jim Bennett
$50 Gift Card ~ Eric Wharton
KIDʼS BASKET #1 Gum Basket Bubble Gum Machine
3 Packs of Big League Chew
$50 Gift Card ~ Stephen Williams
2 bags of gum balls
2 Rolls of Bubble Tape 2 Packs of Pop Rock Gum
$25 Gift Card ~ Reese Roeschenthaler
2nd PLACE PRIZE NOOK ~ Gretchen Orendi
$50 Gift Card ~ Julie de la Parra
$50 Einstein Bros. gift card~ Buffy Hasco
KIDʼS BASKET #2 2 Novelty Boxes containing candy from 80s & 90s
4 Packs of Other Various Gum Items
$50 Gift Card ~ Alex Wharton
$50 Basket ~ Pat Groesch $25 Gift Card ~ Meiman Family
$50 Basket ~ Buffy Hasco
$50 Gift Card ~ Brendan Campbell
$25 Gift Card ~ Holly Spina
$25 Gift Card ~ Kendal McCurdy
$25 Gift Card ~ John Small
$25 Basket ~ Maria Escribens $25 Gift Card ~ Jim Bennett
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Macy’s $25 Gift Card ~ Matthew Fibbi
Fall 2014
$25 Gift Card ~ Tim Murphy
2 Movie Passes ~ Gregg Zegarelli
$25 Gift Card ~ Chris Binkley
$25 Gift Card ~ Kevin Weinheimer
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First Annual Community Day VFD Open House a Huge Success We all know the saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” These photos favorably describe the positive vibe from those who visited the fire station for USC Volunteer Fire Department’s first annual Community Day open house this past May. In celebration of the USCVFD’s 75th anniversary, the VFD members and anniversary committee opened the fire station doors to the public, since many residents have not had the opportunity to tour the facility since the dedication of the new fire station in October 2005. During previous years at Community Day, fire department volunteers squeezed into a corner of the Recreation Center parking lot along McLaughlin Run Road and displayed a few exhibits for everyone who stopped by. This year, the VFD was able to display more exhibits and do live demonstrations for our residents because of the new venue. The activity at the fire station also attracted passers-by who saw the “bouncy house” nestled safely near the street and the ladder truck up in the air as they drove by, as well as those who came on the scheduled shuttle bus from the Recreation Center. Throughout the day, live demonstrations were performed, including lessons on using a fire extinguisher, donning and doffing of the fireman’s protective gear, aerial operations, and much more. Members provided guided tours of the station and discussed the 75-year history, using pictures and videos that continually played in the training room. The VFD membership would like to thank its sponsors: Ace Miller Hardware for providing the popcorn and popcorn machine, Target for providing the door prizes that were raffled off, Firehouse Subs in Peters Township for feeding the hungry members that day, and Eat ’n Park at South Hills Village for the Smiley cookies. A big thank you goes to the VFD family members who helped to make this day a success. Many hours went into the picture boards, videos, and signage throughout the station. Also, a special thank you to the VFD members who put in a lot of extra time cleaning the trucks and building, and all the behind-the-scenes work that was performed to get ready for the big day. Hope to see you at the station at next year’s Community Day! n
Fall 2014
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Public Works Day This past May, Upper St. Clair’s Public Works Department once again opened its doors in celebration of Public Works Day. Residents and elementary students had the opportunity to tour the Public Works building on Truxton Drive and learn more about what these valuable employees do each day for our community. n
Automated Recycling Coming‌ April 2015
In the second quarter (April) of 2015, automated recycling collection will be initiated in the Township of Upper St. Clair. Automated recycling collection will encourage significantly greater recycling participation among residents, given the increased capacity of the toters that will be used in the new program. Also, the new program will assist in providing residents with a more uniform service and will help enhance the aesthetics of neighborhoods within the Township. To prepare for this new program, 65-gallon recycling toters will be delivered to each residence in March 2015. Each household will be provided with one toter, and, if necessary, a second toter will be made available at a later date. Upon delivery, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag (embedded into each toter) 28
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will be scanned so that each toter will be registered to its respective address. Residents will find relevant, useful information regarding their new toter on the inside of its lid. Residents will be able to keep their old (currently utilized) 32-gallon recycling container(s) for purposes other than recycling. Otherwise, they can be delivered to a collection site to be recycled. In order to subsidize the cost associated with obtaining these new recycling toters, the Township is working with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to obtain 902 Recycling Grant funding. This funding, if secured, would cover the majority of costs for the purchase of the new toters and make this program change even more economical. n
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Arbor Tree
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(412) 655-8424 arbortree@gmail.com
PA020936
1115 Wilson Road - South Park, PA 15236
Park Improvements
Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator A lot of activity has taken place, new, more dependable water fountain replaced the old broken and will continue to take place, at the one. The parking lot was resurfaced and dilapidated areas of the Township’s parks. This year, there trail were repaired. The Township received a grant from the Department of have been a number of improvements at many of the neighborhood parks, Conservation and Economic Development in 2013 for improveincluding Tustin, Johnston, Hays, ments at Wiltshire Park. The improvements began during the spring of this year and will continue through the fall. Thanks to Wiltshire, and Boyce Mayview. The basketball court was resurfaced USC’s Public Works Department, improvements included resurand new backboards were installed at facing the basketball courts, resurfacing and installing dashboards Tustin Park. The blue/green colors look great! Take a look next at the hockey court, installing a new playground and a new shelter time you are driving on Lesnett Road. New trees were planted last with restrooms, renovating the splash pad, and installing park fall, and additional trees will be planted. You may have seen the benches and trash and recycling receptacles, as well as paving Ash trees that have been devastated by the Emerald Ash Borer. It’s the parking lot. The installation of the Miracle League playground near the sad to see those majestic trees come down; however, the Township is planning for the future with a variety of canopy trees to avoid Miracle League field at Boyce Mayview Park began late in the spring and the construction took most of the summer. This a monoculture of plants. Johnston Park is in great shape; however, the hockey court Pittsburgh-themed, one-of-a-kind playground hosts an all-incluhas seen better days. This summer, the Township’s Public Works sive playground. Many great play pieces have been incorporated Department repaired the major cracks in the surface and color that will challenge all kids in a fun way. Thanks to the Miracle coated the court. With the improvements, patrons should con- League of the South Hills for all of the organization’s inspiration and dedication to see this phase of the Miracle Field completed tinue to enjoy this park for many years to come. Hays Park had a minor renovation this past spring, and the just a year after the inauguration of the ball field. Come on out to enjoy the Township’s parks. Should you see tennis and basketball courts were completely renovated. New standards were installed at both courts, and the courts were also the need for an improvement, contact the Township or come color coated and the fence painted. A touch sensitive activation and voice your praises or concerns at the Parks and Recreation bollard was installed at the splash pad, and the old rubber tile Advisory Board meetings, held on the fourth Tuesday of every surface was replaced with a much more durable concrete pad. A month, except for the month of December. n Fall 2014
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Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy, Class of 2013
Left to right, front row, seated: Dick Cortes, Bill Keck, Bruce Ambrose, David Williams, Rene Williams, Mary Ann Belles, Morris Lindsay, Doris Lindsay; middle row: Ann-Marie Jaffee, Sam Trentadue, John Baumiller, Morgan Kommer, T.A. Ward, Donna Roberts, Pamela Khalili, Daneen Calhoun, Marge Jacobs, Glenn Avick, Frann Wilson, Lisa Churchill, Lieutenant John Sakoian; back row: Chief Douglas Burkholder, Larry Wilson, Fred Rudolph, Ryan Fleischer, Jim Roberts, Gerald Bass, Carol Bass, Rich Jacobs, Jerry Cordis, Theresa Feeney, Scott Churchill
Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy A free opportunity for people who live, work or conduct business in Upper St. Clair The Upper St. Clair Police Department is hosting its 2014 Citizens’ Police Academy. Classes begin October 7 and end November 18, with consecutive seven Tuesday evening classes from 7-9:30 p.m. The interactive academy classes are conducted at the USC Volunteer Fire Department on Route 19. There is no charge for the academy and it is open to adults of all ages. Why watch it when you can live it? Citizens’ Police Academy course objectives:
• An overview of the criminal justice system, local and global • Active shooter(s) and crisis management in the schools and workplace • Cyber crimes and identity theft issues and prevention • Firearms safety, the Castle Doctrine, use of force, and selfdefense tactics • Patrol procedures, traffic stops, speed enforcement, and felony stops • Criminal case investigations, local ordinances, and vehicle code issues • Domestic crimes, custody disputes, and missing children • A night with the USC Fire Department and Tri-Community South EMS • The role of the District Attorney and the Courts • The United States Constitution and citizens’ rights • Local crimes, current investigations, programs, and public issues n Mail or deliver the completed application 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, M-F, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at 412-833-1113. 30
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Sign up now for the 2014 Citizens’ Police Academy beginning in October.
Upper St. Clair Police Department 2014 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 at 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 • Administration 412-833-1113
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Recycling Update
Ron Sarrick, Buildings/Grounds & Sustainability Administrator It was good to see so many of our residents at the Community Day celebration in May. I enjoyed chatting about recycling and sustainable lifestyles. I’m glad to know that there are folks ready to embrace change that helps create a better community. The choices to reuse, renew, and recycle can make a big difference in materials that will not end up in landfills. Thanks to all who stopped at the Community Day booth for recycling information, handouts, and prizes. We hope to see you again at next year’s celebration! I was a bit surprised to learn that many people didn’t realize that we are a “single stream” recycling community. For those who are new to our community or those who may have not been aware, all of your recycling goes in one bin. plastic containers, glass containers, magazines, newsprint, soft drink cans and bottles, telephone books, wrapping paper, puzzle books, waxed cartons, yogurt containers, cereal boxes, condiment containers, plastic cup and plates, medicine containers,
most flower containers, greeting cards, junk mail, envelopes, catalogs, paper bags, and cardboard. It is preferred that the product be used or removed from containers. No washing necessary! For now, cardboard needs to be flattened and be no greater than 14" x 14". But, beginning in April 2015, the automated recycling bins will accommodate larger cardboard with less effort. (Read more about automated recycling on page 28.) Document Destruction Program The program continues to grow! The May 2014 collection showed about a 25% increase and served approximately 65 people who shredded 2964 pounds of confidential documents. For those who missed the spring program, the fall document destruction date is Saturday, October 11. This program runs concurrently with E-cycling, so bring your batteries, bulbs, and electronic junk to the Township lot to be discarded for recycling. n
Bonnie Detwiler
Northwood Realty Services
Office: 412-595-3010 Cell: 412-298-6646
bdetwiler@northwood.com
• Experience counts • Multi-million dollar producer • Serving Buyers and Sellers • Resident of the South Hills
Retired with Honor In honor of Flag Day this past June, 125 flags were retired with honor at a flag retirement ceremony at USC’s McLaughlin Run Road Recreation Center. Approximately 25 Boy Scouts from Troop 366, as well as some of their parents and scout leaders, were in attendance. If you have an old flag that needs to be retired, bring it to the C&RC and place it in the “Retire Old Glory” box. n
Flag retirement ceremony Fall 2014
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USC Recreation and Leisure Services
www.twpusc.org Piloxing is New to Fitness
Piloxing is a unique and exciting interval fusion of boxing, Pilates, and dance. It blends the power, speed, and agility of boxing with the strengthening and flexibility of Pilates. Using exhilarating, but easy, dance moves, piloxing burns calories, builds muscle, and increases overall stamina. This low-impact program uses weighted gloves to give you a strengthening, fat-burning workout that will make you feel physically and mentally empowered! See the C&RC fitness group exercise schedule for class days and times.
Pitch, Hit & Run
This past April, the USC Recreation Department hosted an MLB Pitch, Hit & Run local competition in Boyce Mayview Park. Thirty participants, ages 7 to 14 years old, competed in three categories. The “pitch” portion of the program tested how accurately a competitor could throw strikes to a designated “strike zone” target from a designated distance. The “hit” portion tested a competitor’s ability to hit from a stationary batting tee, along a tape measure from home plate, toward straight-away centerfield. The “run” portion measured a competitor’s speed in a sprint from the start line, touching third base, and touching home plate. Congratulations to all of the winners who moved on to the sectional competition: Harris Altherr, Jess Burns, Elizabeth Delo, Calla Dressler, Ayush Ghimire, Devin Hall, Andrew Higgs, Jacob Hufnagel, Julio Lopez, Elijah McCrommon, Rachel Redinger, Jacob Slinger, Quinn Smith, Christian Wieczenik, Angela Xiao, and Annie Xiao.
Indoor Tennis Season
This year’s indoor tennis season begins October 6 and will run for 28 weeks through April 19, 2015. Available indoor tennis times will go on sale on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Wednesday, September 10 at 8 a.m. at the Recreation Department office located at 1551 Mayview Road. 32
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Arts & Chocolate Spectacular
The Community & Recreation Center hosted the annual Arts & Chocolate Spectacular on April 26. Visitors from all over the South Hills sampled and purchased treats from the Sweet Shoppe & Nut House, Jesse’s Specialty Snacks and Gifts, The Toffee House, Victoria’s Fudge-A-licious, The Pie Place, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, and Country Confections Chocolates. Event attendees were entertained by various performances from local dance schools, a band, and a gymnastics group. The community rooms at the C&RC were transformed into a gallery of student artwork from USC, Canon McMillan, and Peters Township School Districts and Westminster Nursery School. After voting for their favorite piece of artwork, parents and children were able to visit the new outdoor activity tent where they could paint river rocks or create a number of crafts while waiting for face painting. Thank you to all of the vendors, to King’s Family Restaurant for their generous donation of brownies and prizes for the Frownie Brownie eating contest, and to the volunteers and C&RC staff for making the day a great success! People’s Choice Awards—Artwork Elementary: Daniel Bishop (Canon McMillan) for “Unicorn” Middle School: Elena Schwimer (Upper St. Clair) for “Self Portrait” High School: Chelsea Hartman (Canon McMillan) for “Feathers” People’s Choice Awards—Vendors Best Dessert Presentation and Best Chocolate Dessert: The Pie Place Best Candy Presentation and Best Chocolate Candy: Victoria’s Fudge-A-Licious
Save the Dates!
NFL Punt, Pass & Kick
When: Sunday, September 14, 1 p.m. (makeup/rain date is September 21) Where: Boyce Mayview Park Multi-Purpose Field Who: Open to boys and girls, ages 6-15 years old Inquire: 412-221-1099 or www.twpusc.org
Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest
Come and celebrate the beauty of autumn on Saturday, November 8, 11 a.m-4 p.m. at the sixth annual Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park. Co-hosted by the USC Recreation and Leisure Services Department and The Outdoor Classroom, Bounty is a great familyfriendly event located at Boyce Mayview Park and in the Community & Recreation Center. The event kicks off with the highly anticipated Plunge with the Pumpkins in the indoor resistance channel. If you’re not up for a swim, there are plenty of dry activities planned throughout the day, including children’s crafts, wagon rides, pumpkin bowling, face painting, apple slingshot, baking contest, live music, and food vendors. Check the Township website at www.twpusc.org for more information.
Fall 2014
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United Senior Citizens of USC Resources for Seniors
What’s a Senior to Do… at the C&RC? Seniors at Leisure Held at the C&RC every Thursday, these free activities are for all seniors, ages 62 and older, from both USC and surrounding communities. No membership required. Brain Fitness–1:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month Art Experience–1:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month Movie Matinee & Pizza Lunch– 12:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month Card & Game Club–1:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month
Boomer Boot Camp A modified circuit class for cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength. Where: C&RC gym When: Mondays and Thursdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Group Exercise Classes for Silver Card Holders The following classes, held at the C&RC, are free to Township Silver Card holders (ages 62 and older) and C&RC members, unless otherwise stated. Read the Silver Card announcement (found on this page) to learn how you can become a Silver Card holder, too!
Zumba Gold A great aerobic workout inspired by Latin dance rhythms. Where: C&RC Studio 2 When: Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon
Water Walking A great alternative for anyone who frequently walks indoors or outdoors. This class uses a variety of aerobic movements to push against the water’s natural resistance. Where: C&RC resistance channel When: Mondays, 9- 9:30 a.m.; Thursdays, 6:30-7 p.m.
Gold Card
Offered by the USC School District to residents age 62 and older. Card admits holder to School District drama and musical performances, athletic events, and other events free of charge. Applications taken at School District reception desk at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.
Senior Fit A training class designed to increase stamina, strength, range of motion, and muscular flexibility in a fun, safe environment. Where: C&RC Studio 2 When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
*Silver Card
Offered by USC Township to residents age 62 or older. Card admits holder to the Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, Community & Recreation Center specified programs, and other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Applications are available at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park.
ACCESS 65 PLUS is a shared-ride transportation service program for senior citizens age 65 and older. Contact Chaz McCrommon, assistant community programs coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603, for information about this program and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen identification card for the Port Authority Transit (PAT) system.
Pickleball Play at the C&RC The hottest racquet sport around, it’s perfect for those ages 50 and above. All levels welcome. Where: C&RC gym When: Tuesdays, 1:30-3 p.m. Cost: $25 for a ten-session punch card; $3 drop-in rate
For more information on any Older Adult programing, contact Chaz McCrommon, assistant Community Programs coordinator, at 412-221-1099, extension 603, or mccrommon@twpusc.org.
What’s a Senior to Do… on Wednesdays? The United Senior Citizens program is sponsored by the Upper St. Clair Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. To participate, you must be a resident of USC Township, 55 years of age or older, and retired. Spouses of eligible members may also join even if under age 55. The program meets on Wednesdays. Morning activities are informal and include lunch preparation by the group’s volunteers. The members hold a brief business meeting at noon, followed by lunch. Afternoon activities include
musical entertainment, lectures or presentations of interest, book reviews, health and fitness instruction, game days, and more! Day trips to various performances and places of interest are also scheduled throughout the year. Most meetings are held at the Recreation Center (1770 McLaughlin Run Road). Some meetings are held at the C&RC (1551 Mayview Road) or at other venues. Membership information and meeting schedules (including location) may be Fall 2014
obtained from the Recreation Department offices located at the C&RC. Questions? Contact Chaz McCrommon, assistant community programs coordinator at mccrommon@twpusc.org or 412-221-1099, extension 603. Day(s): Wednesday Time/Place: noon-3p.m., USC Recreation Center, McLaughlin Run Road Requirements: Age 55, retired, USC resident Fee: none
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From the Director’s Desk Helen Palascak, Library Director
Computers and the Internet @ the Library Public access to the Internet improves the quality of life in our Township. Our library is one of few local spaces with free Internet access. In addition to 15 desktop computers and eight iPads for use in the library, there is an open Wi-Fi signal available for library patrons to use with their own devices. More importantly, library staff has expertise to help computer users choose appropriate digital resources, format a Word document, use Excel, set up email, and navigate online sites, as well as help with many other technology questions. Last spring, library computer users were asked to complete a nationally-designed Impact Survey to help the library staff better understand computer and Internet use. Results were not surprising. The most common types Helen Palascak of use included printing, checking email, and using the Internet (via search engines). Social networking and watching videos were also popular. Interestingly, 89% of the respondents using library computers have alternative Internet access somewhere else. Sixty-five percent of these users reported receiving help while at the library and over 92% rated the help they received as “very helpful.” Computer users responding to the survey also rated the availability of free computers and Internet use as important or very important to them personally (76%), and important or very important to have available for the community (87%). Major categories of Internet use are detailed in the accompanying chart. The survey report provided additional information for each category. For example: • In the Employment category, of the 13% who applied for a job on library computers, 5% were hired. • In Health & Wellness, 32% looked up information on diet or exercise and 75% of these made a change to their lifestyle. • In Education, 16% took online tests. • In eGovernment, 36% submitted online forms. • In eCommerce, 13% banked online or paid bills, 32% purchased online, and 8% found housing. Yes, library computers and Internet access are important for our community in many ways. Users are satisfied. Information helps improve the quality of decisions. Learning happens. Lives get better. Be smart. Click today!
Fall 2014
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T Conversation Salon
Fall Program List
If you are not satisfied with just staying home, watching TV, and surfing the Internet, how about joining the USC Library Conversation Salon? You’ll experience the satisfaction and inspiration of face-to-face conversations about topics that are enlightening and relevant. The group talks about what matters to us and listens to and respects what matters to others. Would you like to participate in discussions on the meaningful and interesting events of our times? The USC group meets the first Friday of the month in the library meeting room, 10 a.m. to noon. Stop in and see what it’s all about!
Monday, September 22: Five Essential Friendships, presented by Christine Mabon Thursday, October 2: The History of the Fort Pitt Blockhouse, presented by Emily Weaver Monday, October 20: Horn-U-Copia, a trumpet journey, with Donald Duncan Monday, November 10: The Wilde Woman’s Guide to Organizing in Five Simple Steps, presented by Joyce Wilde Thursday, November 13: Women’s Vintage Clothing, presented by Jean Kanouff Events take place at 7 p.m. in the library multipurpose room. Call the library to register.
Friends of the Library On-Going Book Sales You’ll always find a selection of gently used books for sale at the library. As you would expect, there are books for kids on the kids’ floor and books for adults on the adult floor. The money raised by the Friends’ book sales are used to fund special projects at the library. You can also help the library by donating gently used books for these sales. Kids’ books in good condition are always needed. Books can be dropped off on the first Saturday of each month. Check with the library for the day and time of the next book collection.
USC Township Library Hours Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The library is closed Monday, September 1 in observance of Labor Day. The library is closed summer Sundays through August 31. Outside book and video return available 24/7.
www.twpusc.org 412-835-5540 36
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Can’t Sleep at Night? Visit the Digital Library! The following resources are available online, 24/7. eBooks—Read books on your computer or digital device. They’re available through your catalog search by limiting your search to the type of book you want. Or use the following websites: Overdrive—One click digital BookFlix—Online books for kids Overdrive for kids—More books for kids Freegal—Free MP3 music downloads. Freegal through the library allows you to download three music tracks each week. Plus, the music is yours to keep! Hoopla—Free videos, music, and audiobooks. Hoopla through the library allows you to borrow movies, TV shows, music albums, and audiobooks right to your web browser, tablet, computer, or smartphone. You can borrow eight items each month and the items are always available. Magazines and Newspapers—Access PA Power Library provides access to thousands of full text periodical articles, newspapers, a major encyclopedia, plus photographs, pictures, charts, maps, and reference materials for people of all ages. Encyclopedia Britannica—Search or browse for information in encyclopedias, magazines, videos, and websites. A related database, Britannica Kids, specifically for middle school or elementary students, is also available. Zinio—Zinio through the library allows you to access online magazines (free) to your computer or digital device. You can access popular magazines with full-color photos. All items are always available and you will receive an email reminder each time a new issue is available.
T Kids & Teens Upcoming Classes gh 7th Graders, Dear Parents of 4 throu th
y will p kids find books that the We are often asked to hel books. e tur ven ad e t lots of kids lik tha w kno We d. rea to nt wa constant s are page-turners with Juvenile adventure storie ice reluctant ent to y book is a great wa of e typ is Th nt. me ite exc readers. out n recommending books ab In recent years, we’ve bee ng azi am o who are thrust int seemingly average kids s discover that they have kid circumstances. Some raordinary, rn that their family is ext superpowers, others lea ievable bel un in find themselves and some “normal” kids circumstances. Haddix, include Margaret Peterson Authors we recommend Lemony Pearson, Rick Riordan, Gordon Korman, Ridley also We a. pic Lu wart, and Mike Snicket, Trenton Lee Ste isham Gr n Joh rs s by adult autho recommend juvenile novel and Carl Hiassen. Sincerely, les, Your Librarians Deb Conn and Colleen Mi
Explore-to-Learn @ the Library The library is creating a STEM exploration center for kids seven to 12 years of age, and their parents and caregivers. In it, you’ll find an array of educational tools and kits. Here’s a few of the activities you’ll find in the new Explore-to-Learn place. • A microscope to look at things that are too small to Skooby see just using only your eyes • X -rays of a human skeleton and animal skeletons • The library’s rover robot, Skooby • Electric circuits that can turn on lights, make sounds, and make things move • A magnetic maze to engineer Since the kids will be using expensive scientific instruments, parents and caregivers are required to supervise all Explore-to-Learn activities. This STEM exploration center was made possible through a generous donation by USC resident Paula Holmes. Thanks, Paula! Magnetic maze
This fall, the library will offer a wide variety of classes for children of all ages. The popular storytime sessions will begin Monday, September 29 and run through Friday, November 7. This six-week series will offer children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers many opportunities to visit the library, hear stories, and have a good time. Registration for fall classes begins Wednesday, September 17. A complete list of programs and program information can be found at the library or by visiting www.twpusc.org. Family Storytime Children 2 to 7 years of age with a caregiver Thursdays, 7 p.m. Babies & Toddlers Children ages 4 to 24 months with a caregiver Mondays, 10 a.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Twos & Threes Children 2 to 3 ½ years of age with a caregiver Tuesdays, 11 a.m. Wednesdays, 10 or 11 a.m. Threes & Me Children 3 years of age with a caregiver Mondays, 11:15 a.m. Pre-School Storytime Children 3 ½, 4, or 5 years of age who are ready to spend a half hour on their own Thursdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. Math Mites Children 4 and 5 years of age who are not yet attending Kindergarten Wednesdays, 1:15 or 2:15 p.m. Library Explorers: Explore the Animal Kingdom Children who are currently in Kindergarten Tuesdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. BookTrek: Wild Animals! Children in grades 1 through 4 Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 4 p.m. Crafting Fun at the Library You can also come to the library on the weekends and experience great programs for kids. A variety of craft weekends to celebrate fall and winter holidays will be offered. Consult the library website or visit the library for complete program information. • Celebrate Halloween—Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19 • Celebrate Thanksgiving—Thursday, November 13 through Tuesday, November 25 • Celebrate the winter holidays—Monday, December 15 through Tuesday, December 23 • Celebrate New Years—Friday, December 26 through Tuesday, December 30 Fall 2014
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Leaping into Nature with Team Tadpole Julie Travaglini, Sr. Program Facilitator, The Outdoor Classroom
As The Outdoor Classroom prepares to mark its ten-year anniversary this fall of connecting people with the natural world around them, it is also celebrating the success of its newest flagship program, Team Tadpole. Sponsored by the generosity of PNC Foundation’s Grow Up Great initiative, Team Tadpole is an outreach program that brings fun and hands-on nature lessons to preschool students ages two to six all over Allegheny, Washington, Greene, Butler, and Westmoreland Counties. How many ways does Team Tadpole advance the mission of The Outdoor Classroom? Over 3400 ways! That’s how many students Team Tadpole served in its first year alone. Students enjoyed lessons focused on senses, water, and animals. They were able to compare their senses to those of animals and learn how our senses guide us in our everyday lives. They went on a water safari, learning the importance of water and how people and animals Touching a turkey feather rely on it for every part of their lives, and created their own water-themed safari hat! This spring, students were animal detectives, using their senses to explore artifacts left behind by animals that live all around us. Deer antlers, snake skins, bird nests, coyote and deer fur, Checking out a deer antler gall fly nests, praying mantis egg cases, and beaver chews were brought to the classrooms to teach students about signs of animals. Touching an oriole’s nest
The Gilfillan Farm is now available for your private events or photo sessions
Please join us for our Fall Speaker Series Wednesday, 8/27, 7pm “The History Of Yinz” Barbara Johnstone, Carnegie Mellon University Wednesday, 9/24, 7pm “Saving Family Artifacts” Gretchen Anderson, Carnegie Museum Wednesday, 10/29, 7pm “Historic Preservation” Bill Callahan, Bureau for Historic Preservation Wednesday, 11/19, 7pm “Victorian Holiday Traditions” Ginger Polozoff, The Frick All presentations given at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park Please check us out online to confirm presentations www.hsusc.org www.facebook.com/HSUSC
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events@hsusc.org
412-835-2050
A premier property owned and operated by the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Located at the corner of Washington and Orr Roads
T “Building Your Empire One House at a Time” Team Tadpole has left a meaningful, lasting message with its participants. A teacher in the Pittsburgh Public schools left a note saying, “Our students are city kids, their experiences with nature are very limited. You bring Curious about a snake’s skin it to them so they can learn about nature and fall in love with the natural world. Thank you!” A teacher in the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Headstart program agreed with that sentiment, stating, “The children were engaged and excited to learn about the animals, which might spark their interest to gain further knowledge.” But it’s not just the teachers singing the praises of Team Tadpole; students love it, too! Many students asked Miss Julie to stay the rest of the day, or, at the very least, come back tomorrow. The hugs and “thank you’s” flowed freely, and many students had a hard time choosing just one favorite thing to draw during craft time. The Outdoor Classroom and Team Tadpole are looking forward to expanding their services and bringing even more nature programs to schools and centers this fall! n
James M. Roman, PhD (ABD), MBA Realtor® Coldwell Banker Real Estate Service 3244 Washington Rd McMurray, PA 15317 412-831-5555 x205 Cell: 724-931-1803 james.roman@ pittsburghmoves.com
www.pittsburghmoves.com/james.roman 2014 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.
DOUBT 9/4-9/20
DIVIDING THE ESTATE
August 2014 23
Geo-Pupping: Geocaching with Your Dog
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Medicine Cabinet Makeover with Essential Oils
30
Cozy Campfire
Craft time at The Outdoor Classroom
RADical Days at the Classroom & Wingfield Pines
Pennsylvania Amphibians & Reptiles: Live Animal Program
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Moonstruck
11
Ladies in the Woods
9
Moonstruck
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Scout Orienteering Day
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Talk N Walk: Fall Wild Edibles
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Talk N Walk: Flashlight Hike
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ABOARD Family Day at The Outdoor Classroom
25
Geocaching 101
25
Autumn Adventure Geocaching
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Cozy Campfire
5
LOVE, LOSS AND WHAT I WORE
October 2014 4
September 2014
9/25-10/11
November 2014 6
Moonstruck
8
Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park
9
Talk N Walk: Orienteering
15
SOD Hike: Fall Birding
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EarthCache Teacher Workshop
10/16-11/1
THE MIRACLE WORKER 11/6-11/22
724-745-6300 www.littlelake.org
A TUNA CHRISTMAS 11/29-12/13
Pinkalicious
10/5-11/1 Join Pinkalicious for her fabulous musical and, afterwards on October 11, 18 & 25, the Pink Cupcake Tea Party!
Fall 2014
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General Election—Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Polls Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
Monday, October 6, 2014, 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. Check the Township website to verify the location of the polling place closer to the General Election date. Ward District Polling Place 1
1
Township Building, Library Multi-purpose Room, Ground Floor–McLaughlin Run Road
1
2
Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium–Morton Road
1
3
Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium Miranda Drive entrance
1
4
Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium Miranda Drive entrance
2
1
Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium Miranda Drive entrance
2
2
Westminster Presbyterian Church–Washington Road
2
3
Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium Miranda Drive entrance
2
4
Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium Miranda Drive entrance
Ward District Polling Place 3 1 Recreation Center–McLaughlin Run Road 3
2
St. Louise de Marillac Business Office (rear)–McMurray Road
3
3
Recreation Center–McLaughlin Run Road
4
1
Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium–Morton Road
4
2
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium–Boyce Road
4
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium–Boyce Road
4
4
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium–Boyce Road
5
1
Wesley Spectrum Services, Gymnasium–Johnston Road
5
2
Wesley Spectrum Services, Gymnasium–Johnston Road
5
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium–Boyce Road
Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your homeowner’s coverage The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer lines. There is no way to predict when the next sanitary sewer backup will occur. And while only a handful of our residents experience a significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating if a resident is not insured for losses—losses that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Sewer Backup Insurance Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences. Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage. Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271.
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2014-15 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Holiday Collection Date Week of Labor Day................. Thursday, September 4 and Friday, September 5 Week of Thanksgiving Day.... Friday, November 28 Week of Christmas................. Friday, December 26 Week of New Year’s................ Friday, January 2
2014 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays
Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable 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 25; November 1, 8, 15, 22, and December 6.
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Tri-Community South EMS
Economic Climate and Impact on EMS
Tri-Community South (TCS) EMS has provided affordable EMS services for our community since 1978. However, because of modern economic realities, meeting the needs of the people in TCS’s coverage area is becoming extremely challenging. From the comments received from those whom TCS transports for medical care, it is apparent that most people do not realize the financial realities that EMS faces in maintaining its day-to-day operations. The first reality is that, in spite of general perceptions, TCS does not receive any tax revenue from any of the three municipalities it serves: Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park. Instead, financial solvency must be met through two principal revenue streams. The main source of revenue is reimbursement from a patient’s insurance. The amount of reimbursement is dependent upon the specific policy of the patient’s insurance company. In other words, the insurance company sets the rates, and even though these rates rarely meet TCS’s expenses, Tri-Community must accept as payment in full the amount the insurance companies remit. The patient is then responsible for the remainder of the payment if that patient is not a TCS subscriber. What does an ambulance trip cost? Two basic levels of care exist for ambulance transport. Basic life support care (BLS) trips are $650 and the advanced life support care (ALS) trips are $995. The difference between the two service fees is dependent on the level of care given to the patient during the transport. The fee structure is based on a cost-analysis study that determined the cost to TCS for an ambulance to respond to an emergency call is $683. Medicare reimbursement for a BLS response is set at $331.26. An ALS response is set at $393.35. Therefore, it is obvious that these reimbursements do not provide adequate revenue to meet TCS’s operating costs. The second revenue stream relied upon by TCS is required to meet the underfunded difference. This revenue source comes
in the form of subscriptions. In past years, subscriptions were offered to our residents at the rate of $60 a year. This subscription enabled TCS to write off 100% of the subscriber’s co-pay. However, because of ever-rising expenses and beginning in 2014, TCS had to reduce the write-off to 50% of the subscriber’s co-pay with the subscriber responsible for the remaining 50%. TCS was reluctant to make this change, but economic realities provided no good alternative. To allow for an adequate funding source, most other area EMS services in the region currently have, or will soon have, partially-funded subscription programs to make ends meet. How successful is the subscription program? Last year, only 28% of the more than 50,000 eligible households in the three communities served by TCS became subscribers, and through the first quarter of 2014 only 25% subscribed. Realistically, the more TCS subscribers, the more services TCS can provide while also meeting its expenses. A lack of subscribers will inevitably lead to an increase in what is charged for emergency medical services. Although TCS will accept donations, it is not permitted to hold fundraisers of any sort. Thus, there are no other means by which to raise the revenue necessary to meet its financial obligations. It is in everyone’s best interest to keep EMS services both viable and affordable for everyone in the three municipalities served by TCS. If you are currently not a subscriber, please consider joining and making this a community-wide project that will help ensure high quality emergency medical services for everyone. n
TCS Attends Public Safety Training Seminars Tri-Community South EMS is attending training seminars with police and fire agencies to develop working plans in the event an incident would occur in any of the three municipalities that it serves: Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park. Training together and knowing the roles and responsibilities of each department makes for better communication, understanding, and scene safety in the event of an incident. This past April, several Tri-Community South employees attended a crisis management seminar at Oglebay Conference Center in West Virginia. This is the first time EMS has been asked to participate in a conference of this nature, which are typically for police departments. The training was sponsored by the FBI National Academy Associates, United States Attorney’s Office, and the Western Pennsylvania Chief of Police Association. The seminar included presentations by FBI special agents, the FBI critical incident response group, the Wheeling U.S. attorney, regional police chiefs, and the protective security advisor from Homeland Security. A
variety of subjects were covered, with an emphasis on recent and past mass shooting situations and how they were handled as a learning experience for those attending the seminar. The presenters shared their experiences with pre-attack warning behaviors, the Aurora Colorado Theater incident, the incident with the Wheeling, West Virginia, Federal Building, and the Chadron, Ohio High School incident. EMS providers also were taught protective measures in situations involving active shooter incidents. The presenters stressed that vigilance by first responders, as well as the residents of the community, remain the first steps in preventing these types of tragedies. In June, Tri-Community South employees attended additional training for public safety by the FBI National Academy Associates of Western Pennsylvania. This training was focused on three high profile incidences: Sandy Hook Elementary, the Boston Marathon, and Franklin Regional High School. n Visit www.tcsems.org for more information. Fall 2014
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P IN EBRI DGE 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd Pittsburgh PA 15241
Pinebridge Commons
412-257-1150
•••••••••••••••••
4000 Waterdam Plaza McMurray PA 15317
Welcome Abacus Settlement Company Midway Financial LLC Cardinal Endocrinology
724-942-4840 133 West Allegheny Road Imperial PA 15126
••••••••••••••••• Abacus Settlement Co. Pediatric Dentistry South Cardinal Endocrinology Piccolina’s Restaurant Design Image Salon, Joe Ruffalo Pgh. Stone & Waterscapes Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc. Questa Petroleum Co. Peter Gialames & Associates Randal Agency, Allstate Ins. Interior Designs/Furnishings Eric J. Reitz DMD & by Mary Kay Chaffee Beth Troy, DMD Jennings & Co., CPA Richardson Family Jimcor Associates, Inc. Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins. Timothy Kerr, DMD & Suburban Dry Cleaners Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD TEC Marketing & Entertainment Larry E. Manalo, DMD The Chief Partners Melissa D. Michel, LPC Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent. Midway Financial Services Wininsky Law Offices Pediatric Alliance Xcoal Energy Resources
724-695-0133
Our primary goal is to give your child positive memories that instill lifelong hygiene habits.
•••••••••••••••••
www.pinebridgecommons.com Leasing Opportunity (412) 220-9288 McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road
Office hours are Monday through Friday. Evening appointments are available.
S O MU C H TO O FFE R ... FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Let us make you smile!
T imothy J. K err , D.M.D. R omana P autler K err , D.M.D.
KK 412-257-4250
Pinebridge Commons Suite 207
kerrdmd.com 42
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Chairside Whitening System
Fall 2014
C OMMONS MANALO SMILES
LARRY E. MANALO, D.M.D.
“Quality Dentistry with a Gentle Touch and the Personalized Service that YOU Deserve!!!” PINEBRIDGE DENTAL
1580 Mclaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
412-221-2221
88 DENTAL
4100 Library Road Castle Shannon, PA 15234
412-343-4100
manalosmiles@aol.com Provider of most major insurances. Day, evening, and weekend appointments available. Graduate of University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and proud resident of Upper St. Clair.
.. .O N E S TO P C O N V E N I E N C E The orthodontic office of Dr. Eric Reitz and Dr. Beth Troy provides care for the communities of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Dr. Reitz and Dr. Troy take the time to place and adjust braces on every patient, giving individualized attention in a caring environment.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today! • Orthodontic services for children and adults Pinebridge Commons location: 1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-0392 Bethel Park location: 2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-831-2188
PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES
Melissa D. Michel, MSCP, NCC, LPC
Specializing in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Complicated Grief and Relationship Issues in Adolescents, Individuals, Couples, and Families.
412-407-2900
• Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment • Convenient appointment hours, including Saturday mornings • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted
1580 McLaughlin Run Road Pinebridge Commons, Suite 210
When one door of happiness closes, another one opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” —Helen Keller Accepting Most Major Medical Plans including Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Tricare, United Healthcare, ComPsych, and other Employee Assistance Plans.
WWW.MELISSADMICHEL.COM Fall 2014
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“Scott Bros. comes highly recommended in the Upper St. Clair area.”
SCOTT BROS. Windows and Doors 724.745.2376
www.scottbroswindows.com
To join us for an upcoming event or schedule your personal tour, call 412-489-3550 or visit www.providencepoint.org. You’ve reached the best point in your life! “I love to travel, but I really enjoy coming home to my spacious apartment with its gorgeous view—and to my friends here.” Ann Lytle, resident
Pittsburgh’s premier retirement community is at 500 Providence Point Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15243 A Baptist Homes Society Community 44
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The Township of Upper St. Clair 1820 McLaughlin Run Road
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412-831-9000
The Township of Upper St. Clair became a Home Rule Community on January 1, 1976. As a Home Rule Community, the Township is governed by a locally drafted charter adopted by the voters of the Township. The Home Rule Charter provides for a Board of Commissioners comprising seven members. Two commissioners are elected at large by all voters of the Township and five are elected by ward. In a commissioner/manager form of government, the charter provides a clear distinction between policy-making functions and administrative functions. The Board of Commissioners is responsible for the policy-making functions.
Township Manager
Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 216 The Township Manager is appointed by the Board of Commissioners and is directly responsible and accountable to the Board. He serves as Chief Administrative Officer and is responsible for the administrative functions of the Township. The Township Manager and his designated representatives, including Assistant Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield, are responsible for directing and supervising the operation of all Township departments; preparing an annual budget and financial report; signing papers, contracts, obligations, and documents on behalf of the Township as required by law; preserving order in the Township; representing the Township to other governmental organizations and agencies; and providing staff assistance to the elected Board of Commissioners. The Township Manager oversees the activities of the following eight departments.
Department of Administration
Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager and Director of Administration 412-831-9000, ext. 219 The Department of Administration is responsible for personnel administration, purchasing, labor relations and negotiations, public relations, community communications and cable television, office management, records maintenance and retrieval, in-service training programs, and coordination of grant applications.
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www.twpusc.org
Township Board of Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3 Russell R. Del Re, Vice President, Ward 5 Mark D. Christie, Ward 4 Glenn R. Dandoy, At Large Daniel R. Paoly, At Large Nicholas J. Seitanakis, Ward 1 Rex A. Waller, Ward 2
Department of Planning and Community Development
Scott Brilhart, Director of Planning and Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 501 The goal of the Department of Planning and Community Development is to protect the property values and residential character of the Township. Development of the community is guided by the Township Comprehensive Plan, which is prepared every ten years, most recently in 2005. This department administers and enforces land use codes and issues permits for zoning, building, electrical, fire protection, driveways, sewers, alarms, grading, and street openings. Additionally, the staff provides assistance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, and Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board.
Department of Finance
412-831-9000, ext. 218 • Tax Office: 412-831-9000, ext. 226 The Department of Finance is responsible for all fiscal concerns of the Township, including budget preparation, expenditure control, financial reporting and projecting, insurance management, debit management, property and inventory control, purchasing, investment of funds, and operation of the Tax Office. The Township Tax Office collects taxes for both the Township and the School District. The Township budget is prepared each fall for the subsequent fiscal year, which runs from January 1 to December 31.
Department of Police
Douglas W. Burkholder, Chief of Police Emergency: 412-833-7500 Administration (non-emergency): 412-833-1113 The Police Department is responsible for ensuring public safety and for the enforcement of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the laws and ordinances of the Township. The 24-hour dispatch center coordinates all emergency services, including police, fire, and emergency medical services (ambulance). Additionally, the police department provides patrol squads dedicated to neighborhood and business patrols, vacation home checks, criminal investigation, a special investigation tactical team prepared for extraordinary crisis, and more. The Police Department also sponsors a Citizens’ Police Academy in the fall. See page 30 for the application. Continued on page 46
Municipal Building Fall 2014
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Continued from page 45
Department of Information Technology
Amy Sommer, Director of Information Technology 412-831-9000 The Department of Information Technology is responsible for the computer needs of all Township departments. The Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) provides residents with agendas and meeting minutes; downloadable applications and permits; trash and recycling information; calendars providing Township, school, and community events; bi-annual recreation booklets; UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine; board and commission information; and much more. This department also oversees Cable 7, a public access television station, whose purpose is to provide a conduit for information from the Township, community groups, and individuals to Township residents. A video newspaper displays announcements for Township meetings, and activities and information from community groups and churches. For more information about Cable 7, contact Glenn Ward at 412-831-1030. Cable 7 office is located in the municipal building at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.
Department of Recreation and Leisure Services
Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services 412-221-1099 The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is responsible for recreation programming and activities for residents of all ages. A program booklet is published twice each year in April (spring/ summer programs) and September (fall/ winter programs) and delivered to all residents. The booklet can also be viewed online at www.twpusc.org. Registration for various programs can be conducted by mail, online, or in person during regular business hours, Monday through Friday,
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can also contact the Recreation office to reserve Township facilities such as the Recreation Center for parties and special events, meeting rooms, or availability of Township fields. The Recreation and Leisure Services Department is located at the Community and Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park, 1551 Mayview Road. The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers a senior citizens program (United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair), which provides Wednesday luncheons and programs for all residents 55 years of age and older. Additionally, a Community Day for all residents is held on the third Saturday in May, and an annual flea market is held on a Saturday in July.
Public Works
Department of Public Works
George Kostelich, Jr., Director of Public Works 412-831-9000, ext. 271 The Public Works Department is responsible for the management and supervision of all activities relating to streets, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, trash collection, recycling, leaf and yard waste collections, parks and recreation facility maintenance, building and grounds maintenance, and forestry. An annual trash and recycling schedule is mailed to residents at the end of each calendar year. The schedule is also available on the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org).
Township Library
Department of Library
Helen M. Palascak, Director of Library 412-835-5540, ext. 247 The Upper St. Clair Township Library is located on the second and third floors of the Township Municipal Building and is open Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays during the school year from 1 to 5 p.m. The library collection of approximately 100,000 circulating items includes books, audio books, music, and movies for all ages. The kids’ department of the library also loans puppets and puzzles, and has a “Play to Learn” area filled with educational toys to foster math and literacy skills as well as eye-hand coordination and imagination. Online resources include ebooks, downloadable audio and video, and online databases. As a member of the Allegheny County eiNetwork, the library participates in the shared County Catalog, which library patrons can access at catalog.einetwork.net. Requested materials may be sent from and picked up at any public library in Allegheny County. The library has computer workstations with high-speed Internet access and Microsoft office software and also provides free wireless access for laptop users. A variety of programs and classes, listed on the library website (twpusc.org/library) is offered throughout the year for both children and adults. Use materials and services, share with others during programs and classes, and connect to a world of information. Use, share, and connect at the Upper St. Clair Township Library, your community resource center.
Recreational Facility—State-of-the-Art Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) 1551 Mayview Road 412-221-1099 Located in the active area of Boyce Mayview Park, the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) offers indoor/ outdoor aquatics, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group fitness rooms, 1/8 mile running/walking track, two full-size basketball courts, and rentable community rooms. In addition, throughout the year the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers programs to improve the quality of life for residents of all ages, from pre-schoolers to seniors and all ages in between. See program and offerings information on page 32. 46
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C&RC
Other Services in the Township Animal Control
412-833-7500 The Township participates in a joint animal control program with neighboring communities. Officers are on duty seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with 24-hour emergency ser vice. Clair’s Kennel, along McLaughlin Run Road, provides a temporary home for wandering pets. Residents should call the police department for animal control services including animals running at large, injured or killed animals, and animal nuisance calls. Clair’s Kennel
Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department
Emergency: 412-833-7500 Office (non-emergency): 412-835-0660 Since 1939, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department has been responsible for fire protection, rescue service, and other emergency assistance for the Township. The primary fire station along Route 19 provides an efficient and safe building for preparing and responding to emergency events. The fire department also answers calls for hazardous materials incidents, vehicle rescue, and mutual aid assistance to fire departments in surrounding communities. In addition, the fire department conducts an extensive fire prevention program including fire safety talks in the schools, tours of the fire stations, and fire extinguisher training for local businesses. Each May, a letter is sent to residents and businesses asking for donations. The fire department does not solicit funds by telephone. Please support this invaluable all-volunteer service.
Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services
Emergency: 412-833-7500 Office (non-emergency): 412-831-3710 The Township participates in a jointly-operated emergency medical services program with the Township of South Park and the Municipality of Bethel Park. This program provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance transport by highly trained and state-licensed medical personnel. Each fall, an annual subscription drive is held. For a nominal fee, the entire household and household visitors are provided with emergency ambulance coverage when emergency transport is needed. Tri-Community South does not receive direct subsidies from the Township, nor does it reTri-Community South EMS ceive any revenue from the Local Services Tax (formerly the Emergency and Municipal Services Tax). n
Appointed Boards and Commissions of Upper St. Clair In addition to the elected Board of Library Board
Commissioners, the Township has appointed Boards or Commissions composed of Upper St. Clair residents. Residents wishing to serve on a board or commission should submit a Talent Bank form that is available from the Township Manager’s Office or download the form from the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org). In the event of a vacancy, the Talent Bank forms identify residents interested in volunteering their time and expertise. The following are citizens who currently serve on Township boards or commissions and their respective December 31 term of expiration, if applicable. Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board James A. Sampey, Chair......................... 2016 John L. Rizzi, Vice Chair........................ 2014 Michael McDonnell............................... 2016 David J. McLean.................................... 2014 Robert T. Stevens, Sr.............................. 2015 Robert T. Stevens, Jr., Alternate.............. 2014 Civil Service Board P.J. Murray, III, Chair............................. 2016 James L. Conn, Vice Chair...................... 2015 Paul J. Battisti........................................ 2014
Paula Holmes........................................ 2014 Open..................................................... 2014 Robert G. Ontolchik.............................. 2016 Parks and Recreation Board Roger Hartung, Chair............................ 2016 Jennifer Schuler, Vice Chair.................... 2015 Kelly B. Bakayza.................................... 2016 William O. Barnard............................... 2014 Thomas Browand.................................. 2014 Diane Morris......................................... 2014 Timothy Stouden................................... 2016 Planning Commission James E. Sekela, Chair........................... 2017 Todd Burlingame, Vice Chair................. 2015 Robert W. Stevenson, Secretary.............. 2014 Joel M. Helmrich................................... 2016 Scott R. Slagle........................................ 2016 David Wade........................................... 2014 Open..................................................... 2017 Zoning Hearing Board David E. Tungate, Chair......................... 2015 Dwight D. Ferguson, Vice Chair............. 2016 Gregg R. Zegarelli.................................. 2014 Robin Weissert, Alternate....................... 2014
USC Volunteer Fire Department Fall 2014
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Serving Upper St. Clair Churches and Synagogues Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair 2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775
St. David’s Episcopal Church 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-4060
Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132
Berean Fellowship Church 300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township 412-220-4673
St. George Orthodox Church 610 Dewey Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-2277
Beth-El Nursery School 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168
Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132
St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800 stgregoryusc@aol.com
Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168
Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0441 Beverly Heights Christian Preschool 1207 Washington Road—412-561-7200
Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-0405
St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-6275
Center Church Christian Preschool 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050
St. Louise de Marillac Roman Catholic Church 320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010
Christ United Methodist Church Nursery School 44 Highland Road—412-854-4310
Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153
First Bethel United Methodist Church-Kings School Kids
Bower Hill Community Church 70 Moffett St., Mt. Lebanon—412-561-4114
St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 126 Fort Couch Road 412-833-0031
Kingdom Kids Nursery School 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387
Brightwood Christian Church 5044 West Library Ave., Bethel Park—412-835-6703 Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050 Christ Community Church of the South Hills Eisenhower Elementary School—Sunday 10 a.m. www.cccsh.org Christ United Methodist Church 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621
South Hills Assembly 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-8900 South Hills Church of the Nazarene 5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333 South Hills Community Baptist Church 2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313
5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141
Montessori Early Childhood Center 2400 Old Washington Road—412-835-3340 Mount Lebanon Montessori 550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-563-2858 Mushroom Family Learning Center 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-1225 Noah’s Ark Preschool-Our Redeemer Lutheran 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-942-6699
South Hills Interfaith Ministries 1900 Sleepy Hollow Road, South Park 412-854-9120
Ruthfred Lutheran Nursery School 3401 South Park Road, Bethel Park—412-835-7140
Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7600
St. David's Preschool and Mother's Morning Out 905 E. McMurray Road, Venetia—724-413-0490
The Bible Chapel 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray 724-941-8990
St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery Washington and Mayfair Roads, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644
Grace Fellowship Church of South Hills 412-334-3803
The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills aka Sunny Hill 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-6277
St. Thomas More Preschool & Transitional Preschool to 8th Grade 134 Fort Couch Road—412-833-1412
Hillside Christian Community 1050 Campbells Run Road, Carnegie—412-279-2996
Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630
Faith Lutheran Church of Upper St. Clair 80 Bartley Road—412-835-4590 First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700 First Church of Christ, Scientist 1100 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1125 Good Shepherd Church 110 Hays Road—724-941-9418
Holy Child Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213
Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7687 Westminster Nursery School 2040 Washington Road—412-835-2906
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox 123 Gilkeson Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-833-3355
Day Care (Children)
Day Care (Adult)
Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Cedar Blvd. at Hollycrest Dr., Mt. Lebanon 412-531-8554
Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-1043 Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-854-4310 First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School Kids 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141 Happy Face Learning Center 3540 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172 KinderCare Learning Center 1040 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-831-1888 KinderCare of McMurray 124 Wilhaven Drive, McMurray—724-941-5569 KinderCare of Mt. Lebanon 1610 N. Highland Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-1953 Westminster Child Development Center 2040 Washington Road—412-835-9450
Prime Time Adult Care, Inc. Alzheimer Day Care 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-5509
Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 www.mlepc.org facebook.com/mlepc New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661 Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467 Peace Lutheran Church 107 Carol Drive, McMurray—724-941-9441 Peters Creek Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-6210 Ruthfred Lutheran Church Patterson and South Park Roads, Bethel Park 412-835-7140 48
Nursery Schools
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Seton Center - Brookline 1900 Pioneer Avenue, Brookline—412-344-4777 *Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.
If we’ve overlooked your information, have incorrect information, or if you would like your Upper St. Clair facility to be represented in our magazine with an article, please write to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For an online version, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and find the “Features” section under the “Past Issues” sub-directory.
Local Clubs and Organizations Directory 1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President .....................................412-851-0570 American Assoc. of University Women Helpline............................................................ 1-800-326-AAUW Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club (www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?cid=3664) Tom Atkins.............................................................. 412-901-0987 Boy Scouts of America..........................................412-325-7965 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Woman’s Club http://brooksidewomansclub.webs.com Gretchen Herror................................................... 412-833-8427 Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward.......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Angela Petersen, Executive Director................. 412-831-1107 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ............................................................412-221-5717 Friends of the Library Walter Jeffery, President ......................................412-835-5540 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President...................................... 412-854-1835 Girl Scouts of USC Jim Corona............................................................724-941-1193 jim.corona@verizon.net Historical Society of USC Margie Heins......................................................... 412-835-2050 www.hsusc.org www.facebook.com/hsusc president@hsusc.org League of Women Voters Laryn Finder........................................................... 412-835-4097 Lifespan Kim Rollinson............................................... 412-464-1300 x 127 Mothers and More Membership.......................................................... 412-774-2138 Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com) Susan Rosati...........................................................412-257-8578 PTA Council Brooke Tarcson, President....................................724-942-4679 brooketarcson@hotmail.com Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Kristy Lee.................................................................412-854-4863 knclee@verizon.net South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org ...........................................412-306-8090 South Hills College Club Julie Agar, President............................................ 412-833-1906 South Hills Interfaith Ministries (SHIM) James Guffey, Executive Director...................... 412-854-9120 South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich .....................................................412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Thomas Oelschlager............................................ 724-941-6973
South West Communities Chamber of Commerce www.swccoc.org Emerald VanBuskirk, Executive Director............ 412-221-4100 info@swccoc.org The Outdoor Classroom (www.theoutdoorclassroompa.org) Jessica Kester, Program Manager......................412-838-0064 Town Hall South Maureen Ludwig.................................................. 412-429-7202 Trotwood Manor West Association Tyson Swigart........................................................ 412-595-7600 United Senior Citizens of USC Chaz McCrommon.................................... 412-221-1099, x603 USC Athletic Association (www.uscaasports.org) Bill Barnard, President..............................................412-833-9374 Baseball/Spring................... Joe Krolczyk..............412-835-5439 Boys’ Basketball/Winter..... Jay Sukernek............412-334-0975 Girls’ Basketball/Winter...... Glenn Groninger......412-854-5345 Football/Fall........................ Phil Elias.....................412-498-5015 Softball/Spring.................... Jenn Andrejcik.........412-848-3410 Rec Soccer/Fall.................. Bill Friday...................412-595-7097 Travelling Soccer/Fall......... Brett Russell...............412-979-8150 Wrestling/Winter................. Matt Pollock.............412-221-7383 USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org) Melanie Hendrix ...................................................412-779-3792 USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Brian Schill............................................................. 412-833-6229 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org) Annette Shimer..................................................... 412-831-3289 USC Fly Fishing Club Ed DiGangi.............................................................412-805-1593 USC Hockey Club Pete Gialames...................................................... 412-257-9793 USC League for the Arts (USCLA) Joan Newman ......................................................412-835-8127 USC Library Helen Palascak, Director..................................... 412-835-5540 USC Lions Club Paul Rebholz..........................................................412-257-2731 USC Lions Club Plastic Trash Bag Sales Paul Rebholz..........................................................412-257-2731 USC Newcomer’s Club (www.uscnewcomers.org) Ann Marie Dingmann, President.........................412-308-6862 USC Republican Committee Barbara Lloyd, Chairman ................................... 412-831-8918 blloyd470@yahoo.com USC Swim Club Doug Shaffer, President........................................412-220-4233 USC Volunteer Firefighters Jerry Kopach, Jr., President ................................ 412-835-0660 USC Woman’s Club Judy Gardner, President..................................... 724-279-1975 YMCA South Hills Area Jeff Campbell, Executive Director..................... 412-833-5600
Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office at 412-833-1600, extension 2284, by January 6, 2015, if your club or organization’s information needs to be updated, added to, or deleted from our list. Thank you. For an online version of this directory, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and find the “Features” section under the “Past Issues” sub-directory. Fall 2014
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R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — T O W N S H I P
Upper St. Clair School District 1820 McLaughlin Run Road
School Board Directors Louis P. Mafrice, Jr., President Frank J. Kerber, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Barbara L. Bolas Buffy Z. Hasco Harry F. Kunselman Louis M. Oliverio Angela B. Petersen Rebecca A. Stern
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412-833-1600
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www.uscsd.k12.pa.us
Elementary Schools (grades K-4)
Middle Schools (grades 5-8)
Albert Baker
Boyce (grades 5-6)
School Board
The Upper St. Clair School Board consists of nine elected directors. The regular meetings of the School Board generally take place on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Upper St. Clair Central Office Board Room. There is no scheduled meeting in July. School Board minutes are available on the School District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. For further information regarding meetings, call 412-833-1600, extension 2202.
Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux, principal 2300 Morton Road–412-833-1600, ext. 4000 Erected: 1968, enrollment: 400* School day: 8:15 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Amy Pfender, principal 1500 Boyce Road–412-833-1600, ext. 5000 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 698* School day: 8:35 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Central Office
Patrick T. O’Toole, Superintendent The Upper St. Clair School District’s Central Office is located in the Municipal Building at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road and can be reached at 412-833-1600. As you enter the building, the School District offices are straight ahead.
Fort Couch (grades 7-8)
Dwight D. Eisenhower
Mark Miller, principal 100 Warwick Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 8000 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 503* School day: 8:15 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Joseph DeMar, principal 515 Fort Couch Road–412-833-1600, ext. 3000 Erected: 1951, enrollment: 657* School day: 8:35 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.
High School (grades 9-12)
Buses/Transportation
The primary responsibility of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Department of Transportation, located in Cecil Township, is to provide safe, efficient transportation for the 4300 public, private, and special needs students who attend approximately 30 schools within a ten-mile radius of Upper St. Clair. For more information, contact Jonn Mansfield, Director of Transportation at 412-833-1600, ext. 3450. 50
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Carl R. Streams
Dr. Claire Miller, principal 1560 Ashlawn Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 6000 Erected: 1966, enrollment: 486* School day: 8:15 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Fall 2014
Upper St. Clair High School
Dr. Michael Ghilani, principal 1825 McLaughlin Run Road– 412-833-1600, ext. 2236 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 1383* School day: 7:30 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. (* Enrollment figures for each school are as of April 2014.)
Food Services
The School District’s six nutrition centers serve thousands of healthy meals each day. For information, contact Kimberly Cooper at 412-833-1600, ext. 2287.
Technology
The role of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Technology Department is to provide and support the use of resources that enhance the teaching and learning processes, strengthen communication, and improve efficiency of operations. For more information, contact the Technology Department at 412-833-1600, ext. 2211.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The Upper St. Clair School District piloted the International Baccalaureate Program in 1988 and is offering this program for grades one through 12. For more information, call Central Office at 412-833-1600, or visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
School-Wide Enrichment Program (SWEP)–grades 1-4
Many opportunities are available for elementary level students to explore topics that interest them through SWEP. Mini-assemblies, mentorships, and independent study projects are all part of SWEP. For more information, contact Central Office at 412-833-1600 or your building’s school principal.
2014-2015 USC PTA Council, left to right, are Holly Spina, vice-president; Rachelle Engel, secretary; USC Superintendent Dr. Patrick O’Toole, second vice-president; Brooke Tarcson, president; Susan Speer, advisor; Kristen Buonomo, treasurer
Boosters (Parent Support Groups)
Boosters and parent groups are formed to support various activities and sports teams. For information, call the High School at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260 (athletics) or ext. 2264 (activities). Fine and Performing Arts The Upper St. Clair Band Parents Association is a parent group formed to support the band and orchestra. The Upper St. Clair Choral Boosters is a parent group formed to support the choral groups. For information, call the High School Fine and Performing Arts Department at 412-833-1600, ext. 2627. Theatre Angels support the USCHS spring musical. Call 412-833-1600, ext. 2530 or 3325 for more information.
Extracurriculars
Sports programs are available at all levels. For information regarding middle school or high school sports, call Athletic Director Matthew Mellinger at 412-833-1600, ext. 2261 or Athletic Office secretary Cindy Storer at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260. Music programs, including chorus, theater, orchestra, and band, as well as cheerleading and dance are available at each grade level. For information regarding high school activities, call Activities Director Danny Holzer at 412-833-1600, ext. 2263, or Assistant Activities Director Sheila Lloyd at 412-833-1600, ext. 2264. Also, see page 66 for a list of high school activities. For information regarding elementary and middle school activities, call your building’s school principal.
Kennywood Day (a Community-Wide Tradition)
Kennywood Day, originally sponsored by the PTA Council for schoolage children, is now a community-wide tradition. Each year on the third Monday in June, all Upper St. Clair residents are invited to participate in a day at Kennywood Park. For information, call 412-833-1600, ext. 2202. Continued on page 52
District Calendar The eBLAST is a monthly digital School District newsletter to inform parents and residents about what’s happening in USC schools. To receive notification about the eBLAST release each month, parents and Township residents are encouraged to register to receive E-Alerts. Registration for E-Alerts is easy. Go to the District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us and under the “Quick Links” section on the right hand side of the home page, click and follow the directions to subscribe to receive E-Alerts.
The USC School District detailed monthly calendar is available online, providing residents with the most up-todate information about events in our Township’s schools. To access the calendar, visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us and click on the “Calendar” tab. In addition to viewing events for the entire District, there is also an option to filter by specific school buildings.
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Continued from page 51
Rent School Gyms, Panther Stadium, and the Theaters
The school gyms and high school stadium are often available for rent. For information, call Karen Huckenstein at Central Office at 412-833-1600, ext. 2202. For rental of the high school or Boyce theaters, LGI room, or nutrition center, call Karen Powers at 412-833-1600, ext. 2363.
Volunteers in Our Schools (grades K-12)
There are well over one thousand volunteers who share their time and talents with the children in our schools. Any resident who is interested in volunteering in any of our schools is encouraged to contact your building’s principal.
Open Mikes
Open Mikes are informational meetings between building principals, teachers, administrators, and parents where current issues are discussed and concerns are voiced. Call your building’s principal or PTA president for more information.
Upper St. Clair
School District Calendar 2014–15
August 25–First Day of School for Students September 1–No School (Labor Day) October 10–Half Day Early Dismissal for Students (Teachers’ Professional Development) October 27-28–Teacher Inservice. No School Parent/Teacher Conferences November 4–Teacher Inservice. No School November 27-28–No School (Thanksgiving Recess) December 24-January 2–No School (Winter Recess) January 19–Teacher Inservice. No School February 13–Teacher Inservice. No School February 16–No School (Presidents’ Day) March 6–Half Day Early Dismissal for Students (Teachers’ Professional Development) March 30-April 3–No School (Spring Recess) April 6–Teacher Inservice. No School April 26–Half Day Early Dismissal for Students (Teachers’ Professional Development) May 22–No School (Snow Make-Up Day) May 25–No School (Memorial Day) June 10–Last Day of School for Students (Pending Snow Make-Up Days) June 15–Kennywood Day 52
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Fall 2014
PTA Council PTA Council is the “umbrella” PTA organization in Upper St. Clair, which provides leadership and coordination for all of the PTAs in USC. If you’d like to be involved with PTA and get the “big picture,” you’re welcome to join! For more information, call Brooke Tarcson, PTA Council president, at 724-942-4679. A list of PTA Council sponsored or affiliated activities follows: Partners in Education (PIE) PIE is a group of parents, administrators, and staff formed as a branch of the PTA Council to foster the best educational environment for all exceptional children and to educate and assist parents of exceptional children. Topics in Education (TIE) TIE is a branch of the PTA Council formed to foster and address general education issues for all school-aged children. TIE meets twice annually. Guest speakers address the audience with discussion following. Together in Parenting (TIP) TIP is a branch of the PTA Council and offers support and education on difficult parenting issues. TIP is open to all Upper St. Clair residents. Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) GATE is a committee of the PTA Council whose objective is to provide information and support to parents of gifted and academically talented students in the District. PTA (grades K-8) The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is an organization of parents of middle school and elementary school-age children together with their teachers that allows parents to work within the schools to provide extra help, additional programs, and educational and social activities for the children. The PTA has branches at five schools in the District (Baker, Eisenhower, Streams, Boyce, and Fort Couch). For information, call your building’s school principal or PTA representative. PTSO (grades 9-12, USCHS) The Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) is an organization of parents, teachers, and high school students that provides an opportunity to work on additional programs and educational and social activities at the high school. For more information, call 412-833-1600 ext. 2236. n
Youth Steering Committee
The mission of the Youth Steering Committee of Upper St. Clair, with School District and Township representation, is to involve the Upper St. Clair community in providing positive direction and support to our youth and their families. Gary Seech, Chair Geralyn Austin, Vice Chair Angela Petersen, Secretary Lynn Boucek Amy Billerbeck Manjri Gupta Ed Kavo Jeff Krantz Debbie Piecka
Bob Plummer Lisa Schrott Stacie Sebastian Tina Seech Susan Speer Ellie Stoehr, School District liaison Lynn Walcoff, Township liaison
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Fall 2014
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Educational Resource Guide Sound advice— for an uncertain market. The right partnership can give you one of the most powerful tools in investing today—confidence. Your UBS Financial Advisor, backed by world-class research and resources, will work with you to create your plan that offers clear direction and relevant advice. Because in order to rebuild confidence in today’s unpredictable marketplace, you need to surround yourself with a team you can count on. Redwood Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 4000 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 100 Canonsburg, PA 15317 877-320-9160
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3/20/13 4:36 PM
Fall 2014
Educational Resource Guide Carnegie Upper St. Clair Squirrel Hill
412-429-2122 www.pghma.com
Sign up for fall classes now! Classes start August 25th
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Resolution in a private conference room not a public courtroom To learn more about the collaborative divorce process, contact any one of the professionals below for a free thirty minute consultation.
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Patricia and Paula have sole, independent practices and do not practice together as a law firm. Carole is a psychologist and has a separate practice of psychological services.
The Center for Theater Arts (CTA), a non-profit organization, is dedicated to offering the highest quality performing arts instruction and is committed to providing all students opportunities to improve their self-image and self-confidence through artistic expression. For over three decades, The CTA has played a large role in the lives of young people in our community. The CTA faculty teaches hundreds of students each year in acting, musical theater, ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, and voice, giving all students a chance to “reach for the stars.” Last year, the CTA began a performance partner relationship with USC, renting the USCHS Theater for its high school musical productions. Many USC students and families attend classes, and have supported CTA performances and galas for the last 30 years. Most recently, USCHS students Lindsey Johnston, Hannah Stolzer, Kelly Conner, Lucy McKeever, Tommy O’Brien, Emma Wagner, Zachary Heckler, and Isabel Tarcson took to the stage in the CTA production of Pippin, with a cast of 60 students from surrounding communities. At the CTA, children find their “voice” at an essential time in their development. Through high-quality performing arts education, they experience the value of collaboration and teamwork, and how great it feels to truly be better together. n
The Center for Theater Arts
Explore a Center of self expression Enroll Now for Classes in the Performing Arts Acting • Dance • Voice • Musical Theater Fall classes begin September 8th!
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Come to The Center and be yourself!
See CTA ad on this page. Fall 2014
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SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors
Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. President 412-851-0622 2017*
Harry F. Kunselman 412-851-1115 2017*
Frank J. Kerber Vice President 412-833-4873 2017*
Louis M. Oliverio 724-941-4584 2015*
Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2015*
Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2015*
*Date indicates expiration of term.
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2015*
Buffy Z. Hasco 412-833-5712 2017*
The 2014 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.
Rebecca A. Stern 412-220-0745 *Date indicates expiration of term. 2015*
School District Detailed Monthly Calendar—Visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. School District Central Office Administration
To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, and follow the automated directions. Administrator
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant Superintendent/ Deputy Superintendent
John Rozzo Assistant Superintendent
Frosina Cordisco Director of Business and Finance
Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development
Ray Berrott Director of Technology
Secretary/Email Address Extension
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole................................ Mary Ann Stabile............................. 2201 Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Assistant Superintendent/ dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us Deputy Superintendent John Rozzo Assistant Superintendent Frosina Cordisco........................................ Dawn Machi.....................................2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Judy Bulazo.......................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Director of Curriculum dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us and Professional Development Ray Berrott.................................................. Doreen Leech....................................2211 Director of Technology dleech@uscsd.k12.pa.us Eloise Stoehr............................................... Terri Lott...........................................2283 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us Melissa Garvin............................................ Cheryl Ellison...................................2116 Supervisor of Special Education cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Sheila Gorgonio.....................................................................................................2826 Director of Advancement sgornonio@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jonn Mansfield, Matthews Bus Company...............................................................3450 Transportation Director School District Building Administration
Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Pupil Personnel
Melissa Garvin Supervisor of Special Education
Sheila Gorgonio Director of Advancement
Dr. Michael Ghilani....................... High School Principal Dr. Lou Angelo............................... High School Associate Principal Daniel Beck.................................... High School Assistant Principal Christine Mussomeli...................... High School Assistant Principal Joseph DeMar ................................ Fort Couch Middle School Principal Amy Pfender................................... Boyce Middle School Principal Erin Peterson.................................. Middle School Assistant Principal (Grades 5-8) Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux... Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller Eisenhower Elementary School Principal/ Supervisor of Elementary Education Dr. Claire Miller............................. Streams Elementary School Principal
USC School District website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us 56
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USC School District Receives Awards USC Receives Exceptional Rankings in PBT Upper St. Clair School District has once again received exceptional rankings in the Pittsburgh Business Times 2014 Guide to Western Pennsylvania Schools. The District is listed as the number two school district in western Pennsylvania and fourth in the state. The formula used for this ranking takes into account three years of Pennsylvania System of Student Assessments (PSSA) test scores in math, reading, and science. Fort Couch Middle School placed number one among the seventh grade rankings. Upper St. Clair has been at the top of the list all five years that seventh graders have been ranked in the guide. USC Chosen as One of Top Ten STEM Schools in Pennsylvania In recognition of the company’s large demand for a skilled workforce in Pennsylvania, Shell Oil Company released its ranking of the Top 10 STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) high schools, and Upper St. Clair High School was ranked third in Pennsylvania. Children at Risk, a non-profit that works to improve the quality of life for children through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy, conducted the research on behalf of Shell Oil Company. High schools were measured on a set of math and science specific indicators that capture both performance and engagement, including performance on math and science standardized tests and college entrance exams, as well as offerings and enrollment in advanced math and science courses. Once again, USC is one of the top performers in an area deemed important in the 21st century and at USCHS. USC School Board Receives Award The USC Board of School Directors was selected to receive the Tri-State Area School Study Council’s 2013-2014 D. Richard Wynn Distinguished School Board Award. This award recognizes school boards for addressing important issues that directly improved schooling for students during the 2011 through 2013 school years. “I congratulate our school board for receiving this honor. I am honored to work with such a devoted group of individuals who serve as our USC Board of S c h o o l D i re c t o r s , ” stated Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools. The USC Board of School Directors has demonstrated remarkable contributions to
education and its community during the 2011-12 and 2012-13 school years. Like other Pennsylvania school boards, the board has faced tremendous budget challenges. Despite these challenges, board members have been committed to continuing USC’s legacy of student excellence. The board has supported development of innovative educational programs, which customize student learning; the training of administrators, teachers, and students to become better leaders; the enhancement of safety and security initiatives; and the comprehensive addressing of difficult budgets through revenue generation and strategic spending cuts. Dr. Diane Kirk, director of Tri-State Area School Study Council, commented, “The hard work, innovative ideas, and dedication of Upper St. Clair over the years have put your board in the highest tier of educational administration and we are honored to recognize the USC School Board this way.” USCSD Publications Win Awards The Upper St. Clair School District’s electronic newsletter, eBLAST, is one of four publications in the state to receive an Award of Excellence (the highest rating) in the Electronic Newsletter category of the 2013 Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association’s (PenSPRA) “Excellence in Education Communication” contest. In addition, the School District’s website, along with five other school districts, received an Award of Honor in the Website category. PenSPRA is an organization of school public relations professionals whose goal is to improve educational communication and support student achievement through systematic, proactive, and responsible public relations programs. PenSPRA provides a forum for the professional development of its members and is a valuable network and support organization. Communication and school issue workshops, seminars, and special programs are conducted throughout the state and in conjunction with the National School Public Relations Association, Pennsylvania School Boards Association, and the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials. “I commend Paul Fox, editor, and Mary Ann Stabile, executive assistant to the superintendent, ( eBLAST ), and Ray Berrott, director of technology, and Doreen Leech, technology support coordinator, (website) for their work and leadership of these platforms,” stated Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools. n
Left to right are Dr. Sharon Suritsky, assistant superintendent/deputy superintendent, Dr. Patrick O’Toole, superintendent, and board of school directors Louis Mafrice (board president), Barbara Bolas, Amy Billerbeck, Angela Petersen, and Buffy Hasco. Missing are board directors Frank Kerber, Harry Kunselman, Louis Oliverio, and Rebecca Stern. Fall 2014
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SD USCHS 2014 Commencement Opening Remarks
Louis P. Mafrice. Jr., President, Upper St. Clair School Board of Directors The Board of School Directors for the Upper St. Clair School District is pleased to extend its best wishes and heartiest of congratulations to each and every member of the Upper St. Clair High School graduating Class of 2014. This is the 54th such class to attend commencement ceremonies here in Upper St. Clair. The Board of Directors is also proud to note that during the past four years, this senior class has received an impressive number of awards for their academic achievements, athletic successes, and artistic performances. It is these high level achievements—which have been recognized by experts in academia, athletics, and the fine arts—which show that our school district, Upper St. Clair, continues to be a leader in all areas of education. This has happened because of the challenging curriculum made available by our administrators and curriculum leaders, the customized instruction and nurturing environment provided by our educators,
the love and support given by family members, and last, but not least, the hard work, dedication, and energy shown by the graduating students sitting before us. As we bid you farewell, I offer a quote from Steve Jobs, which was part of a commencement speech he gave to the graduating seniors at Stanford University some years ago. “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And, most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” In closing, and now that you have heard your last morning bell at the high school signaling the start of the school day and you no longer will walk down the hallways lined with lockers and posters taped to the walls serving as notices of
Louis Mafrice, USC School Board President
club meetings or other after-school events, the Board of School Directors wants you to know that we believe you are ready to make your mark on this world of ours. By the way, one of Steve Jobs’ marks made on this world was founding Pixar. And, to steal a line from one of Pixar’s most famous characters, Buzz Lightyear, we wish each and every one of you great success and happiness… “To infinity and beyond!” n
Superintendent’s Address Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole, USC Superintendent of Schools It is my pleasure to address our graduating Class of 2014. This ceremony is sometimes referenced as a benchmark when planning our educational programs at USC. We ask: By the time our students are sitting at commencement, what do we want them to know, what do we want them to be able to do, and what do we want them to be like? Class of 2014, by now, you are quite familiar with the “What do we want students to know?” question. In fact, after having taken your exams, you are probably tired of demonstrating what you know, and your test scores show that you know a lot. The “What do we want students to be able to do?” question is becoming of much greater value to employers and consumers of your skills. In fact, our staff reports that you are able to do things—especially with technology—that we have difficulty even comprehending. The third question, however—“What do we want students to be like?”—is much more complicated. Some say what students are “like” cannot be taught. The research on social learning reports that what we are like is influenced considerably by our experiences and our environment. 58
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But qualities that demonstrate what students are like—qualities such as honesty, integrity, teamwork, a positive attitude—are, according to many, much more important outcomes for you as graduates than what you know and what you can do. Schools do have an interest in bringing out your best qualities. In fact, our District mission statement concludes with the phrase that challenges USC’s staff to “…nurture the uniqueness of each child to promote happiness and success.” I can tell you that you will find the word success in many schools’ mission statements, but the quality of happiness being expressed in a mission statement is less common. These two terms—happiness and success—are repeated often at this time of year. Although I can’t say this for sure, I believe there is an assumption by those who wish you happiness and success that your future happiness will be the result of your success. Recently, however, I was reading psychologist Shawn Achor’s book The Happiness Advantage that flips the assumption that success leads to happiness. Achor’s findings posit the opposite. His research suggests that happiness is more likely to lead to success than success leads to happiness. Fall 2014
Dr. Patrick T O’Toole, USC Superintendent of Schools
In the workplace, Achor found that employees who are “happy,” or as he describes “positive in the present,” are more productive, more creative, and more energetic—and thus more successful. Achor points out that if our traditional thinking—that success makes people happy—were true, then everyone who got the job or promotion they desired or was accepted to the college of their choice would be happy. An example close to your stage of life was Achor’s observation while living among students and conducting research at Harvard University. Incoming freshmen, just a few
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Chosen to Speak
Excerpts from the Class of 2014 student commencement speeches The following are excerpts of three graduation speeches given during the 2014 commencement ceremony this past June.
Jordan Selep—Tomorrow, we are propelled into the unknown and whatever path life may lead us. We are only at the beginning of our journey and there are endless great things to come. While we reflect upon yesterday, appreciate today, and anticipate tomorrow, it’s also important to recognize that for those who are given much, much is expected. We can no longer be self-focused, but must strive to make the world a better place for those around us. If we can achieve that, it’s not only yesterday, today, and tomorrow, but it’s also forever. weeks after entering the college they so desperately wanted to attend, found themselves unhappy with the reality of difficult classes, new social arrangements, and a significant life change. In fact, he observed that students in small villages in rural South Africa tended to be happier than students at Harvard. So, if success won’t necessarily make you happy, what will? Achor has several books, a popular TED Talk video, and numerous research articles that suggest there are intentional actions you can take to make happiness become the center of your emotional personal universe, just like Copernicus declared the sun to be at the center of our physical universe. I have selected one of Achor’s suggestions to intentionally engage in brief positive exercises each day, such as reaching out to others in your social network to thank them. What better way to conclude my remarks tonight than by engaging in my personal positive exercise by reaching out to you, the Class of 2014, to extend my personal gratitude, best wishes, and happiness before success. On behalf of the School District of the Township of Upper St. Clair, I offer you good fortune, both happiness and success, and the best wishes of your alma mater, now and forever. n
George Sun—Eventually we learn that there are limitations to what we can do. Although we are surrounded by so much, we realize that we live in a beautiful, cruel world where childhood dreams will only ever be childish dreams. Those childish dreams may be nothing but fantasy, but we must do everything reasonable and possible to push onward. Even if our childhood dreams are gone, we will replace them with new ones grounded in reality. Still, this world is unforgiving and even brilliant lights will cease to burn. Passion alone is not enough. If above all else we are true to ourselves, then we will be able to find a place in this world.
Kyle Austin—When I first entered into the high school I was a child. Now I leave here a slightly larger child. I have refrained from nuggeting and zip-tying people’s backpacks, but I still devote a significant amount of time to pickleball. I feel pretty certain that we will be able to take the lessons that we have learned and use them in the future. I am not really sure what is going to happen, but I am sure that everyone here is going to make something of their future. So, here I stand before you—student, graduate, that kid you would see in the hallway. Make whatever happened in the high school building for the last four years a jumping block for whatever you really want to do with your life. High school is over; it’s time to get started.
USCHS Class of 2014 Academic Achievers
Valedictorians (pictured above, listed alphabetically): Matthew Becker, Grace Chen, Brinda Doshi, Kylie Fultineer, Haylee Gans, Shushma Gudla, Christian Heil, Madison Lindsay, Connor McCormick, Nicole Nyman, William Petley, Jordan Selep, Bhanu Sharma, Benjamin Stalnaker, George Sun, Sydney Turnwald, Nathalie Unico
Graduation photos curtesy of M&M Photography Fall 2014
S u p e r i n t e n d e n t ’s A c a d e m i c Achievement Award: Ryan Betzold, John King, Lyndsey Nagy, Corey Wilding IB Diploma Candidates: Nolan Ardolino, Kyle Austin, Marissa Behun, Brinda Doshi, Gaurav Gupte, Sonja Kretschmar, Jane Lippencott, Sarah Meiman, Lauren Montgomery, Tejas Patel, Eva Roy, Jordan Ryan, Mary Sanner, Sydney Turnwald, Safiye Unlu, Robert Weaver, Devan Zalla
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U.S. News and World Report Ranks USCHS as One of the Best! The U.S. News and World Report has ranked Upper St. Clair High School (USCHS) as one of the best high schools in America. It ranked USCHS number six among Pennsylvania’s 690 public, magnet, and charter high schools and number 456 of more than 19,400 high schools nationwide. Schools are evaluated based on the key principles that a great high school must serve all of its students well, not just those who are college bound, and it must be able to produce measurable academic outcomes to show the school
is successfully educating its student body across a range of performance indicators. Performance on state proficiency tests is used as a benchmark, as well as collegereadiness performance that is determined using Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate test data. “As USC superintendent, I congratulate our students for their outstanding performance,” stated Dr. Patrick O’Toole.“Our ranking demonstrates USC community’s commitment to delivering excellence in education.” n
Changes Coming to SAT® Exam Typically, it’s one of the most stressful events of a high school student’s junior year—college entrance exams. But earlier this year, College Board officials announced that they would be updating the SAT® exam, starting in the spring of 2016. This is the first update in the test since 2005; one that officials say was needed to make the exam more representative of what students study in high school and more focused on the skills students will need in college and beyond. The new SAT® will still test students on reading, writing, and math skills, with an emphasis on analysis. Scoring will be on a 1600-point scale, and there will be a separate score for the optional essay. Students will have the option of taking the test using a computer. One of the biggest changes in the test is the elimination of the penalty for wrong answers, which discouraged guessing. Vocabulary words will be replaced with words that are more widely used in classroom and work settings. The mathematics portion of the new exam will focus on skills most needed for college and afterward, instead of
testing a wide range of math concepts, and a calculator will be allowed only on certain math questions, instead of on the entire math portion. The optional essay portion of the test will also be changed to measure a student’s ability to analyze and explain how an author builds an argument, rather than measuring the coherence of writing, but not the quality or accuracy of reasoning. The colleges to which a student applies will determine whether the essay will be required. When the SAT® was upgraded in 2005, the essay portion was added and analogy questions were removed. In 1994, antonym questions were removed and calculators were allowed for the first time. Upper St. Clair Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Patrick O’Toole, commented, “It is a good practice to periodically update student assessment systems. Our staff will work with students and parents to interpret the impact of these changes.” n
One of the biggest changes in the test is the elimination of the penalty for wrong answers
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Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/06/ education/major-changes-in-sat-announcedby-college-board.html?_r=0 Fall 2014
Top Schools in Pennsylvania 1. Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School (Philadelphia) 2. Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy (Erie) 3. New Hope-Solebury High School (New Hope) 4. Wyomissing Area Junior/Senior High School (Wyomissing) 5. Conestoga High School (Berwyn) 6. Upper St. Clair High School 7. Unionville High School (Kennett Square) 8. Radnor High School (Radnor) 9. Wissahickon Senior High School (Ambler) 10. Great Valley High School (Malvern)
SAT® Key Changes Include: • I n s t e a d o f a rc a n e “ S AT ® w o rd s ” (“depreciatory,” “membranous”), the vocabulary definitions on the new exam will be those of words commonly used in college courses, such as “synthesis” and “empirical.” • The essay, required since 2005, will become optional. Those who choose to write an essay will be asked to read a passage and analyze the ways its author used evidence, reasoning, and stylistic elements to build an argument. • The guessing penalty, in which points are deducted for incorrect answers, will be eliminated. • The overall scoring will return to the old 1600-point scale, based on a top score of 800 in reading and 800 in math. The essay will have a separate score. • Math questions will focus on three areas: linear equations; complex equations or functions; and ratios, percentages, and proportional reasoning. Calculators will be permitted on only part of the math section. • Every exam will include, in the reading and writing section, source documents from a broad range of disciplines, including science and social studies. On some questions, students will be asked to select the quotation from the text that supports the answer they have chosen. • Every exam will include a reading passage either from one of the nation’s founding documents or from one of the important discussions of such texts.
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Louise Means Retires
While those who knew her wished it was an “April Fools” joke, after 20 years of dedicated service, maintenance technician Louise Means retired from the USC School District on April 1. Hired in November 1994 as a substitute custodian, Louise transitioned from substitute to part-time custodian, maintenance helper, full-time custodian, and finally to maintenance technician. Louise is especially Louise at a Bonsai show remembered for her expertise in the pool area and her master skills in key production. Prior to her employment with the District, Louise was a construction laborer with Local 373. Louise said she enjoyed the interaction she had with the teachers, and she also liked the interaction with the students, usually when she was called to un-jam a locker. Now with more free time, Louise plans to spend it doing what she loves best—working in the garden. “I have a very large backyard that is in a state of flux,” said Louise. “I want to set up a Bonsai garden and put my Bonsai plants in a place where I can enjoy them.” She said one of the first chores she tackled this April was transplanting her deciduous Japanese maple Bonsai, something she has wanted to do for years. A Penn State master gardener, Louise would like to become more involved with the programs they offer, as well as to visit various gardens on the East coast. Whatever Louise’s plans, we wish her good luck and thank her for her dedication to USC! n
Chamacysperus, one of Louise’s Bonsai
We Dream, We Do.
Louise’s empty garden is ready for her retirement!
School District Notices Now Online!
Starting with the 2014-15 school year, the annual notices to parents of children who reside in the Upper St. Clair School District are now available online. To view the District notices and immunization regulations for the 2014-15 school year, visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Kimberly Cooper, Food Services Director Joe Wightkin, Support Services Director
Fall 2014
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SD
Meet… the PTA/PTSO Presidents
Faster than a fleeing toddler, stronger than an obstinate ’tween, able to recruit 20 volunteers with a single email—it’s the 2014-15 PTA/PTSO presidents! As the school year starts again, it seems appropriate to introduce our residents to these volunteer parents who are willing to organize so many activities and educational efforts at each of our schools and at the PTA Council level for our children and families of USC.
programs. When both of my children became students at the high school and the opportunity arose to be on the PTSO executive board, it seemed to be a natural progression for me to step in and volunteer. I believe that being a PTSO volunteer is the best way to stay informed of events and activities at the high school level. In addition, I enjoy working with the administration, faculty, and USC families who are passionate about education and strive to help our kids make the most of their high school experience.
PTA Council President: Brooke Tarcson Spouse: John Tarcson Kids’ names and ages: Isabel (16), Emma (14), Juliana (13), Lily (11) Occupation: Preschool teacher What you like to do in your free time: Free time? What is this term you speak of? I don’t have a lot of free time, but when the stars align in just the right position and I find myself with no pressing matters to attend to, I love to read or go for a walk, or watch HGTV and realize how many things I need to update in my house. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: The year I was asked to be vice president, I had a child Brooke Tarcson at every level in USC—Streams, Boyce, Fort Couch, and the high school. I was having a very hard time attending all the PTA meetings and keeping up with everything that was going on in each of my kid’s schools. Being on the PTA Council executive board has allowed me to keep in touch with all my children’s PTA presidents and find out when they need help at events. I also loved the idea of each PTA unit president having an opportunity to listen to Dr. O’Toole provide updates on the School District and voice concerns directly to him. As PTA Council president, I am very happy to facilitate that at our meetings. I wish I would have attended more PTA Council meetings in the past (hint, hint). Come to our meetings!
Fort Couch Middle School President: Joyce Burton Spouse: Russell Burton Kids’ names and ages: Rachel (13), Rae (11) Occupation: Needlepoint consultant What you like to do in your free time: Yoga, garden, needlepoint, and, of course, spend time with my family. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: I have always known that involvement in my children’s schools brought me closer to their educational experience. As our children enter into their middle school years, there are fewer opportunities to be involved as parents. Being on the board as president is a way to give back to the community and have better access to information about Fort Couch and the Joyce Burton District as a whole. It allows me to be a stronger advocate for not only my children, but for all students.
USC High School President: Kristy Lee Spouse: Chris Lee Kids’ names and ages: Morgan (18), Erin (15) Occupation: Former speech-language pathologist, currently stay-at-home mom What you like to do in your free time: Read, exercise, garden, volunteer. Kristy Lee Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: From the time my children started school, I have been a parent volunteer at the elementary and middle schools, as well as in the youth sports 62
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Boyce Middle School President: Vicki Strain Spouse: David Strain Kids’ names and ages: Alex (14), Sarah (11) Occupation: COO of the Strain household What you like to do in your free time: Exercise, golf, garden, and cook... in no particular order. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: I enjoy Vicki Strain being an active member of the community. This opportunity provides me a good way to contribute, while simultaneously having a greater impact in my children’s education. Baker Elementary President: Karly Foster-Cianflone Spouse: Jeff Cianflone Kids’ names and ages: Andrew (6), Zackary (4) Occupation: Director of Education at Red Apple Learning Centers
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Highley Dedicated Knowledgeable Accessible Dependable
Susan Highley ABR, CRS, SRES
$140 Million Sales in 23 Years
“Your Real Estate Needs Are My #1 Priority”
412.833.3600 ext 268 Cell: 412.889.1214 www.brooksidelumber.com What you like to do in your free time: Play softball, golf, cook, hang out with my family and friends, volunteer. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: When I was a teacher, before I had children, I was always so appreciative of everything that the PTA did for the school and for the teachers. Now that my kids are school-aged, I realize that this is my chance to pay it forward. I want to take advantage of this opportunity to meet new people and better understand what goes on at Baker and Karly Foster-Cianflone throughout the community. I want to make a difference in my children’s lives and in their education, and I feel that being the president of Baker PTA is one way to do this. I want to teach my children to value their education and realize the importance of hard work and of giving back. I’m excited for the chance to be a part of making Baker the best it can be. Eisenhower Elementary Name: Gail Groninger Spouse: Jay Groninger Kids’ names and ages: Gordon (9), Sara (7) Occupation: Stay-at-home mom and marketing consultant What you like to do in your free time: Run and garden. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: I chose to volunteer as Eisenhower PTA president because of the outstanding learning environment where the primary focus is for
www.shighley.howardhanna.com each student to excel to his or her own potential and to attain a positive attitude towards learning. I am continually amazed at the programming provided by the PTA. This is my opportunity to be involved not only at the classroom level, but also for the entire school. I am honored and excited to be president for this school year!
Gail Groninger
Streams Elementary President: Ann Rhodes Spouse: Damon Rhodes Kids’ names and ages: Emily (11), Lydia (8), Meredith (7) Occupation: Stay-at-home mom (and Streams PTA president!) What you like to do in your free time: Read, run, cook. Why you chose to volunteer as president this school year: I was told that “they” would just keep asking me until I said “yes!” Seriously though, I really admire what’s happening at Streams and want to help in any way that I can to enhance the parent-teacher efforts surrounding Ann Rhodes our students. n
Fall 2014
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APPLICATION FOR ATHLETIC PASSES FOR THE 2014-15 SCHOOL YEAR
The Ultimate Panther Pass includes general admission for regular season home events: football, soccer, basketball, swimming, wrestling, lacrosse, and volleyball (approximately 75 paid events). ADULT PASSES ULTIMATE PANTHER PASS (All Events Pass to 75 events) (General Admission to all sports events: Fall, Winter, and Spring Sports for $70).... #____ of passes @ $70 = $____
USCHS Varsity Sports Scorecard 2013-14 Sport
Win-Loss-Tie
FALL Boys’ Cross-Country
2-6-0
Girls’ Cross-Country
5-3-0
Field Hockey
7-7-2
GENERAL ADMISSION FOOTBALL ONLY PASS #____ of passes @ $30 = $____
Football
11-1-0
PANTHER (STUDENT) PASSES ULTIMATE PANTHER PASS–STUDENT (Student All Events Pass to 75 events) (General Admission to all sports events: Fall, Winter, and Spring Sports for $40).... #____ of passes @ $40 = $____
Boys’ Golf
JR. PANTHER–Elementary/Middle School Student (Football Only Pass = 4 games)............. #____ of passes @ $10 = $____
Boys’ Soccer
Your Name___________________________________________________ Your Address_________________________________________________ Upper St. Clair, PA. 1524___
TOTAL REMITTANCE $___________
Mail completed application and check payable to USC High School Athletics to:
Athletic Office Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Passes will be mailed when processed. For the complete football schedule, see below. For more information on athletics, visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Lost or stolen passes will not be replaced.
Conference Champions 15-1-0
Section, WPIAL, PIAA Champions Girls’ Golf
11-4-0
Section Champions 23-1-1
Section, PIAA Champions Girls’ Soccer
11-7-2
Girls’ Tennis
15-5-0
Girls’ Volleyball
10-8-0
WINTER Boys’ Basketball
15-7-0
Section Champions Girls’ Basketball
14-7-0
Wrestling
4-3-0
Boys’ Swimming
10-1-0
Section Champions Girls’ Swimming
7-4-0
Section Champions
2014 USCHS Varsity Football Schedule
0-10-0
Ice Hockey
6-14-0
SPRING Baseball
7-8-0
Date Opponent Location
Softball
1-13-0
August 29 September 5 September 12 September 19 September 26 October 3 October 10 October 17 October 24
Boys’ Tennis
16-1-0
Fridays, 7:30 p.m. kickoff
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Rifle
Penn Hills Peters Bethel Park North Allegheny Woodland Hills Baldwin Canon McMillan Montour Mt. Lebanon
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Away Home (Youth Night) Away Away Home (Halls of Fame, Homecoming) Home Away Home (Senior Recognition) Away Fall 2014
Section Champions Boys’ Volleyball
10-7-0
Girls’ Track
1-3-0
Boys’ Track
2-2-0
Girls’ Lacrosse
2-9-0
Boys’ Lacrosse
15-3-0
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USCHS Swimming Makes Waves USCHS Swim Coach David Schraven was named AAA Boys “Coach of the Year” by the Pennsylvania High School Swim Coaches’ Association (PHSSCA). The award was presented to Dave at the PHSSCA’s 19 th annual convention in Hershey this past May. This award is based upon a combination of athlete performance and voting by peer coaches throughout Pennsylvania and is given for male and female teams in the AAA and AA categories, for a total of four awards. Similarly recognized are three other coaches from schools across Pennsylvania, which include Fairview (Boys AA), Hershey (Girls AAA), and Southern Lehigh (Girls AA). Dave was the only coach from Western Pennsylvania to be bestowed this year’s honor.
Coach Schraven watches over a practice.
This outstanding accomplishment for Coach Schraven reflects positively on his leadership and also on the accomplishments of the USCHS student-athletes under his tutelage. The USCHS boys’ team broke all but one team record last season. The boys’ team finished second at the 2014 WPIAL competition held in February. In five of the races (two individual and three relay events), the USC boys finished first and set WPIAL records which included the following swimmers: Ryan Dudzinski, Alex Hardwick, Patrick Lersch, Fynn Minuth, Nate Novak, and Tomos Williams. Other top swimmers were Jake Johnsen, Christian Kelly, Kevin Liu, and Braedon Wong. At the 2014 PIAA championships held at Bucknell University this past March, the boys team finished in third place and took home two gold medals. Ryan Dudzinski set a new state record, winning the gold in the 100-yard butterfly in 47.44 seconds. In addition, the 400-yard freestyle relay team of Alex Hardwick, Patrick Lersch, Fynn Minuth, and Ryan Dudzinski finished first in 3:03.04. In addition to more great swims (individual and relays) from the athletes mentioned
USC swim team leads a cheer at the start of the WPIAL competition.
above, other top performers included Tomos Williams and Nate Novak. The girls’ team finished in fifth place at the WPIAL competition, with the following swimmers medaling: Lindsey Choate Meg Haggerty, Maeve Lersch, Carolyn Novak, Carly Olsakovsky, Megan Reilly, Victoria Shaffer, and Maddie Yoos. The girls’ team finished in tenth place at the PIAA championships. Congratulations are extended to Coach Schraven and our outstanding high school swimmers as they look forward to another exciting year of determination, best times, and getting it done! n
New Track and Jumping Venues at USC Angelica Lucas and Bess Lynch
When the new school year starts, many improvements will have been made to the track and jumping facilities at the Upper St. Clair High School stadium. The track surface has been replaced and there are new jumping runways, jumping pits for the long jump and triple jump areas, and landing surfaces for the high jump and pole vault. Secure covers will be used to protect the pits and landing areas. Improved jumping boards were installed and new fencing was also installed to protect the improvements to the facility. The USCHS track is one of the most widely-used facilities in our community. Athletes from nearly every sport use the track for conditioning. Many other students who do not participate in organized sports and community residents also use the track to maintain their fitness by walking or running. Due to the renovations in spring 2014, the track team was unable to host home track meets this past school year. The new track and jumping venues are a welcomed facelift as the team gears up to compete in the spring of 2015. Head track coach Doug Petrick is looking forward to the new facility and is hoping to host a middle school invitational track and field meet. Coach Petrick
also hoped to get an automated electronic timing system, which would allow for more accurate and efficient timing of the races and would attract bigger track and field meets at the facility. The cost of automated systems was more than what was allotted for during the current renovations performed. Chaired by a committee under booster parent Wendy Vespa, the USCHS track booster club embarked on a project to raise funds for the automated electronic timing system. Knowing of its importance to the team, the committee sought funds from parents, athletes, alumni, former athletes, and businesses. The fundraising efforts allowed for the purchase of a state-of-the-art timing system. Contributors included: • Platinum Sponsor ($5000): Avertra Corporation, McLean, Virginia • Silver Sponsor ($2500): IDI Consulting, LLC, Pittsburgh • Contributors ($100 to $999): Petrinins Promos, Rockmed Inc., Wendy Vespa, Howard Hanna, Paul and Leanne Adamo, Chuck and Mary Beth Chrissis, Karen and Steve Davidson, and Barry and Becky Lynch n Fall 2014
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USCHS Serves Up Competition
Alexa Gross, USC TODAY Intern Love, 15, 30, 40, game! This scor- promote the school’s colors—white and ing method is just one aspect that makes black, with a red accent. the sport of tennis unique from all other Like most sports teams at USCHS, sports. Additional aspects that allow this the boys’ tennis team is split into two sport to stand out include, but are not sub-teams: varsity and junior varsity. limited to, the variety of different types Each sub-team, consisting of about 11 of courts a match can be played on (clay, players, has its own dedicated coach. grass, or hard), the equipment used by the Varsity’s coach is Ron Mercer, a successplayers, the terminology spoken, and the ful, long-time, nationally-ranked tennis Left is Ron Mercer, the varsity coach, and Mikey Russell (right), the sole senior player this past season attire that is worn. Despite all the variety, player. Ron’s assistant varsity coach is the Upper St Clair High School Boys’ Alex Conway, a formerly ranked Mt. Tennis Team excelled in several combina- Lebanon tennis player, who leads the fall, where he hopes to continue his tennis tions of these conditions. One thing similar junior varsity team. Although this was career. Additionally, other members of the to other USCHS sports teams, the USCHS Alex’s first season as a coach, both JV and varsity starting lineup included Fernando boys’ tennis team wears uniforms that varsity teams experienced extremely good Escribens, Dom D’Amico, Christian Meyer, seasons this past spring. Overall, varsity Sam Schiffman, Scott Russell, and Anthony lost just one regular season match to their Abinanti. Like all of the members of both rivals, Mt. Lebanon. the varsity and junior varsity teams, these Although the varsity team was not vic- seven boys brought strength and leadership torious at WPIALs, a strong bond between to the team this past season. the 22 varsity and JV team players develThe start of a new season is a habitual oped as the season progressed. Both teams process. Tryouts are the first indicator that came together on the courts for practices the season has begun. After tryouts, comes and games, and the athletes spent a lot of training and the start of practices. At this time together off the courts, as well. The point, players prepare for their first match The team does one final chant at team enjoyed many bonding activities, in- of the season. Usually, the opening match their end of season gathering. cluding dining together at Red Robin is a scrimmage, meaning that the score(s) or watching a new “must-see” movie are not counted towards the actual record at a local theater. With all the rain at the end of the season. Once scrimmages this season and several cancelled are played, the season of this high school and/or rescheduled practices, the spring sport officially begins in March and boys shared plenty of time in off- ends with WPIALs, which takes place the court fun. first week of May. This year’s team included one seThe members of the tennis team, as nior, Mikey Russell (USCHS Class of well as their coaches, are looking forward 2014), who played both singles and to welcoming all incoming freshmen who doubles on the varsity team’s start- want to try out for the team. They are also ing lineup. Mikey is attending Penn looking forward to expanding the bond The members of the team enjoy a team dinner. State Behrend Honors College this and the friendships that this team shares. n
USCHS Clubs and Activities 2014-15 Anime/Manga Club Art Club Athletes Taking Action Badminton Club Biology Club Cause for Paws CHANGES (Community Helping Alliance for Neighborhood Goals in Education & Service) Cheerleading Choral Groups Clairvoyant (yearbook) Classic Rock Club Color Guard
Computer Programming Club Crew (Rowing) Dairies for Charity Dance Team Environmental Awareness & Recycling Fall Play FBLA (Future Business Leaders) Film Production Club Fishing Club Forensics (Speech & Debate) French Club FRIENDS (Finding Relationships in Every New Direction) Future Med
German Club Girl Childhood Network Golf Club Hip Hop Dance Team Ice Hockey Interact Invisible Children Italian Club Japanese Club Jewish Student Union Junior Classical League Kids Helping Kids Lacrosse Club Latin Club Law Club
Library Media Assistants LINK (Leisure Interaction Networking Kids) Majorettes–Marching Band Make-A-Wish Marching Band Mathematics League MENC Tri-M Music Honor Society Montage (literary publication) Multi-Cultural Club Music Production Club National Honor Society Natural Helpers Orchestra Outreach Club
Pantherettes–Marching Band Pep Club Photography Ping Pong Club Quidditch Club Robotics SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving) Science Club Ski Club Spanish Club Spring Musical St. Clarion (school newspaper) Stage Crew Student Council
Teens for Casey’s Clubhouse Thai Club Thespian Society Ultimate Frisbee UNICEF Club World Affairs Club
F o r i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l U S C H S a t 4 1 2 - 8 3 3 - 1 6 0 0 , e x t e n s i o n 2 2 6 4 , o r v i s i t w w w. u s c s d . k 1 2 . p a . u s . 66
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Computer Fair Standouts The Pennsylvania Regional Computer Fair was held at the Carnegie Science Center this past March, and several Upper St. Clair students were very successful! First place winners went to the state competition at Dickinson College in May. The students competed in animation, computer fair logo, digital movie, graphic design, programming, and web page design. The projects were facilitated by USC teachers Susan Fleckenstein, Connie Gibson, and Dr. Timothy Wagner. n
Sam Burt; first place recipient of Middle School Programming
Dina Leyzarovich; first place recipient of Middle School Graphic Design
Connor Byrnes; first place recipient of High School Programming
Boyce students Julia Brubach, Millena DeIuliis, Nicolette DeIuliis, and Maggie Halloran; second place recipients of Middle School Digital Movie
High School Welcomes UNICEF Speaker Debbie Rentschler, USCHS Librarian
This past spring, the USCHS UNICEF Club, the high school library, the Gifted Program/IB Program, and the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair sponsored Taryn Fusco, National Office Fellow within the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, to give two presentations about the role of the United Nations and, in particular, UNICEF, in helping impoverished children worldwide. Taryn holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Villanova University and a master’s in public health from Boston University, where she concentrated in the field of international health. She wrote her thesis on the medical male circumcision rollout program in Kenya and the resulting urban rural disparities in HIV/AIDS incidence. Shortly after receiving her MPH, she worked on a project in Kenya, where she and colleagues tested water quality in the Kimana region and provided recommendations to ensure drinking water would not continue to cause illness, especially diarrheal illnesses in children under five. She has since worked in resource mobilization at the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative and led the New York volunteer branch for Oxfam America. Taryn explained that, “UNICEF is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the protection of children’s rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential.” (See unicef.org.) In addition to UNICEF’s history and mission, Taryn discussed UNICEF’s program areas, current work in emergency locations, specific long-term development projects, and what and how
students can get involved in volunteering to make a difference. A question and answer period followed, during which Taryn highlighted ways in which students can obtain Left to right are USCHS UNICEF club member internships at the Suzan Turan, speaker Taryn Fusco, and UNICEF club member Mohini Vakil United Nations. She closed by encouraging students to participate in fundraisers, including Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, and to support UNICEF’s mission to provide clean water, nourishment, immunizations, education, and inclusive socialization for every child. Last year, USC School District raised $1170 during the Trickor-Treat for UNICEF campaign. Sponsored by USCHS librarian Debbie Rentschler, the high school UNICEF club raised $775, which included a $130 prize money donation by USCHS gifted coordinator Pat Palazzolo’s Global Q competition winners Jimmy Bregenser, Robby Burke, Yasaswi Duvvuru, and Devan Zella. For the first time, UNICEF club members Deepikaa Sriram, Shivani Patel, and Deepika Narayanan coordinated with Fort Couch students to raise an additional $394 under Fort Couch guidance counselor Laura Madia’s supervision. n Fall 2014
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A Tribute to the Seniors of USC’s Speech and Debate 2014 Sydney Turnwald, USCHS Class of 2014
“You do forensics? That’s so cool! team has several strong speakers in these I watch CSI all the time on TV!” categories. Senior Eva Roy has performed in Unfortunately the above response is one interpretation events her freshman through which I have received way too many times junior year. For her senior year, she decided over the past four years. Yes, I am on the to write her own ten-minute piece instead high school’s forensics team, but it is speech of editing and relaying someone else’s piece. and debate, not criminal investigations. My Her speech about indecision was a choice time with the team over the past four years that earned her a spot to both national has been some of the most influential in my tournaments. life thus far. There I have engaged in countThe largest section of the speech team less stimulating conversations and learned currently competes in extemp. After being about extremely varied topics. Though given a topic, the speaker has 30 minutes the foundation of forensics fosters much to research the topic and must then presof this learning, it alone is not responsible ent the speech, which lasts approximately for the large impression the team has left seven minutes. To me, this event has been on my life. That honor instead goes to the extremely intimidating, and I have stayed other amazing people involved with the very far away from it. However, to the senior organization. Left to right are some forensics members Brenna Carse, “extemp-ers” Brenna Carse, JP Miller, and Hunter Lantzman, Jordan Ryan, Sydney Turnwald, The team consists of a variety of USC George Sun, the event is a breeze and each Genny Tankosich, and Eva Roy students from all four grades, which adds of them experienced great success. Brenna diversity to the learning experience. Team placed first in the state last year and qualimembers take different classes and have different interests, and fied to both national tournaments. This year, she qualified to one because of these varied backgrounds, we contribute differently, but national tournament. George had similar success, taking third in the collectively. Though the majority of forensics events are individual, state last year and fifth this year and qualified three years in a row to the group as a whole comes together in the process of practicing, national tournaments. JP qualified to both national tournaments for writing cases, and improving speeches. the past two years. Though an experienced extemp-er, he sometimes Almost every Saturday, November through February, tournaments switches over to the debate side of forensics where he has qualified are held around the Pittsburgh area, where students present their three times for the state tournament in parliamentary debate. arguments or perform their speeches. These tournaments encompass The ability to perform well in multiple events is yet another several different events that can be broken into two main categories: skill that the team strives to create for its members. The skill of speech and debate. versatility not only comes in handy at tournaments when there are Forensics speech—The speech part of forensics is performance a limited number of spots per event, but also for life, in general. As oriented, with the most performance-laden pieces coming under the life’s plans often change unexpectedly, knowing how to proceed and category of interpretation. Though there are more specified rules deal with change, as I have learned through forensics, is inexpressdepending on the exact event, the pieces are typically ten minutes ibly important. long. In this time, an entire, engaging story must unfold, paired down Forensics debate—The other major component of forensics is from a novel, movie, play, or short story. Most of the events allow debate. There are three types of debate that Upper St. Clair students only one person to perform, without props of any sort to aid in the compete in: Lincoln Douglas, public forum, and parliamentary. Each process. What results is a unique performance, relying heavily on style has different rules and regulations, but share a basic tenant of the “forensicator’s” ability to create for the audience a world using having a resolution to which debaters must prepare cases for both only their voice and body, a surprisingly difficult task. sides. This past school year, the team was very fortunate to have some Lincoln-Douglas, or LD, is the oldest type of debate, stemming seniors who are masters at this craft. Mandy Seiner and Genny from the senatorial debates of 1858. A round is set up pitting one perTankosich have tried several different types of interpretation events. son against another arguing a topic, typically moral or philosophical This past year, they decided they would join together to perform in in nature. Through a series of speeches and cross-examinations, each an event appropriately titled “Duo Interpretation.” The team’s piece debater attempts to convince the judge that his argument is superior. was both moving and successful, qualifying them to the state tourUpper St. Clair has more or less taken control of LD this past nament, as well as both national tournaments, a feat very difficult season! At nearly every tournament, the top two places were awarded to accomplish. This duo’s team involvement does not, however, end to USC’s Benjamin Stalnaker and Younos Manfoud, including all three with their successes; rather, they both are important team leaders qualifying tournaments. At the state tournament in March, Ben and who spend practices helping underclassmen perfect their own pieces. Younos once more experienced this “close out” phenomenon with This focus on more than just one’s own success exemplifies the type the undefeated Younos facing the also undefeated Ben. of student that the forensics team attracts, and a quality that I have However, the success of these two debaters has not been limited found so moving during my time with the team. to this past year. Ben qualified to national tournaments three times The other type of speech event involves students creating their and Younos (who joined the team only last year) qualified twice to own speeches. Sometimes these speeches are prepared ahead of time both tournaments. In addition to these seniors, Mary Gen Sanner (called original oratory, or “OO”) while other times the speech is has also performed incredibly well in LD over her two years with the composed on the spot (called extemporaneous, or “extemp”). The team, qualifying both years to national tournaments. 68
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Conversing with any one of these students for longer than a few minutes, you will appreciate just how intelligent and well poised this group of kids whom I have spent my time with is. Though the team will miss this year’s seniors as forensics gears up for 2014-15, the seniors have left behind several well-trained underclassmen that will keep the team’s LD control for many seasons to come. The next most popular debate category is public forum, or PF. This debate event is fast paced and is focused on current events. Two teams of two debaters compete, giving individual speeches and combined crossfires. This event attracts many underclassmen, but the real success is achieved by teams like senior Jordan Ryan and her junior partner, Rishabh Kewalramani. Both students have been competing in PF since their freshmen year, but this past season was their first time competing together. They placed at many local tournaments and qualified to both national tournaments. The third (and newest) debate event is parliamentary debate: three-people teams debating a variety of topics. Depending on the tournament, the rules may vary slightly, but usually consist of topics
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for which prepared materials are allowed to be used and topics for which only brain power is allowed to be used. Six USC students (two teams) qualified for the states tournament this past year. Seniors Alex Bowman and JP Gillen, and sophomore Hunter Lantzman were one team. Seniors JP Miller and Mary Gen Sanner and sophomore Chase Miller comprised the other. This team was undefeated at all the tournaments it competed in and placed first in the state. Seniors JP Miller and Alex Bowman returned to the state competition for the second time as well as sophomores Chase Miller and Hunter Lantzman. Every time I walk into the computer lab where we hold practice, a new conversation is being held. There are always different angles to consider and new pieces of evidence to evaluate. Though an inherent drive for personal success exists, a greater desire for team success prevails. The forensics community is where I’ve spent most of my free time during high school, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested. We are a rather welcoming bunch! So, as my own high school forensics experience has come to an end, I recognize how fortunate I am to have shared so much time with such a wonderful group of people. As I think back to the first time I wandered onto the forensics team, I realize how much we’ve all grown. Scared freshmen, we were intimidated by the intelligent seniors who encouraged us to speak louder when we said our names. But, as we spent time with our pieces and with each other, we have pushed and convinced one another to try events we would have otherwise never imagined. As I leave what I have lovingly begun to think of as “my team,” I am proud of what we accomplished and what we have learned. I am confident that my teammates are ready to become the next leaders and face the world undaunted and capable. Our time together has prepared us to boldly face the world and leave our marks upon it. n Sydney Turnwald, USC Class of 2014, participated in forensics in multiple events during her four years with the team. She currently attends Franklin University, Switzerland.
On the bus to a forensics tournament
Japanese Speech Contest Ally Mesinere
When I tell people that I speak Japanese, their reactions are priceless. This past spring, my Japanese classmates and I participated in a Japanese speech and poster contest at the University of Pittsburgh, sponsored by the Japanese-American Society of Pennsylvania. We competed against nine other high schools in the tri-state area, including Greensburg Salem, Butler, Allderdice, Norwin, and Shaler. Representing USCHS, eight of us competed in three different categories. Clare Rainone, Sarah Stewart, Malik Cumberbach, and Mingyi Zou competed in the poster portion of the Japanese I competition. In Japanese 2, Mariya Savinov and I competed in beginner speech, and in Japanese 3, Dustin Hess and Robert Balmer competed in the intermediate level for speech. In the poster contest, Mingyi Zou won second place, I received third place for beginner speech, and Robert Balmer won first place for intermediate speech. In addition to the competition, there were many exciting activities to experience. Before and after we presented our speeches or posters, we walked around the exhibits and visited various booths, enjoying some Japanese activities. My personal favorite was trying on a Japanese kimono, but there were also calligraphy, origami, Japanese games, and more. Our sensei (teacher), Junko Kapples, encouraged us to mingle with the other 95 students attending the competition.
Near the end of the contest, representatives from the University of Pittsburgh gave a presentation about Kendo, a Japanese form of fencing with two-handed bamboo swords, originally developed as a safe form of sword training for samurai. They demonstrated many different forms of Kendo and explained the Japanese history of fencing. This speech contest has helped me to learn more about the Japanese culture, but, more importantly, has enabled me to meet new friends from the other schools who participated. Yes, the preparation for the contest and my speech were a lot of hard work, but well worth it! If I should have to go back and do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing! n
Left to right are USCHS foreign language curriculum leader Deanna Baird, Sensei Junko Kapples, students Ally Mesinere, Mingyi (Bill) Zou, and Robert Balmer, and USCHS principal Dr. Michael Ghilani Fall 2014
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The Awards Keep Rolling in for Fort Couch Paul Fox
It seems a remarkable feat that, in a single year, one Upper St. Clair school would receive so much positive attention! Can you name the building level within the USC School District that earned a Blue Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education, ranked as “one of the 50 best middle schools in the country” by TheBestSchools.org, selected as number one in the region according to the Pittsburgh Business Times, re-designated as a Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn “School to Watch,” and awarded a Silver LEED certification in 2013-14? One of only eight middle schools in the entire country (and the only one in Pennsylvania), Fort Couch earned its fourth U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon award this past fall. At their October 2013 meeting, the Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors recognized Fort Couch Middle School as one of 286 schools nationwide to earn the 2013 National Blue Ribbon Award and for being included on the list of Exemplary High Performing Schools. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and non-public elementary, middle, and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where students are making significant gains in academic achievement. It identifies and disseminates knowledge about effective school leadership and instructional practices, and serves as both a high aspiration and a potent resource of practitioner knowledge. Flying a National Blue Ribbon Schools flag has become a symbol of educational excellence recognized by everyone from parents to policy-makers in thousands of communities. Although standardized achievement tests are not the only measure of a school’s success, Fort Couch’s preeminent long-term performance on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) exams is truly astonishing. As an example, the last fiveyear average for Fort Couch students is 95% proficiency or advanced in both reading and mathematics. In the Pittsburgh Business Times, seventh graders from Fort Couch were listed as number one in the region for all five years of its published “Guide to Western Pennsylvania Schools.” In 2013-14, eighth graders earned an equally commendable second place in the region. Of course, all schools in the District are known for academic success. Maintaining superlative achievement on the 2013-14 PSSA, the Upper St. Clair School District was awarded second place in the region and placed fourth in the state out of 493 public school districts, according to the Pittsburgh Business Times honor 70
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Displaying the new banner at the school-wide award assembly for Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn Schools to Watch (STW) Re-Designation are (front row) Fort Couch student council members and (back row, left to right) Bruce Vosburgh, director of the Pennsylvania STW, Amy Pfender, Boyce Middle School principal, John Rozzo, then supervisor of USC Middle Level Education, Joseph DeMar, Fort Couch Middle School principal, and Erin Peterson, assistant middle school principal.
roll ranking. The formula for this report takes into account three years of PSSA test scores in math, reading, and science. Writing scores from 2011 and 2012 are also included, but were no longer administered in 2013. The Western Pennsylvania region includes 45 public school districts in Allegheny County and 105 districts across the seven-county area. Boyce and Fort Couch Middle Schools were recently “redesignated” as the Pennsylvania Middle Schools Association Don Eichhorn “Schools to Watch” (STW) award recipients. Both USC middle schools were first recognized in 2008, and re-assessed and re-designated in 2011 and 2014. The recognition program is not all about test scores, but enhancing and improving student learning based on four fundamental benchmarks: • These schools are academically excellent–STW schools challenge all students to use their minds well. • These schools are developmentally responsive–STW schools are sensitive to the unique developmental needs of early adolescents. • These schools are socially equitable–STW schools are democratic and fair, providing every student with high quality teachers, resources, and supports. • To achieve high performance, high-performing STW schools establish norms and organizational structures to support and sustain their trajectory toward excellence. According to Bruce Vosburgh, director of the Pennsylvania STW program, the middle school movement has been evolving in Pennsylvania for the past 50 years. On May 20 at an inschool awards ceremony shared with Fort Couch students, staff, and elected officials, Vosburgh stated that the late Dr. Donald Eichhorn, a former administrator at Upper St. Clair, provided “visionary work and pioneering efforts in reshaping the middle grades” which have become “legendary in the history and development of American Education.” He added, “Fort Couch was the first middle school in Pennsylvania and quickly became a model for thousands of emerging middle schools throughout the U.S. I am sure that Dr. Eichhorn would be very proud of Fort Couch Middle School for continuing to uphold what he believed was right for young adolescents.”
In April 2014, TheBestSchools.org recognized Fort Couch as among “the 50 best middle schools in the country,” the only school in Pennsylvania to receive this designation. To be considered for this accolade, schools are evaluated based on several weighted factors, including academic excellence, NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores, state assessment scores, other awards and rankings, geographical diversity, and reputation. Superintendent Dr. Patrick O’Toole said, “I am proud of Fort Couch Middle School for being ranked number 14 among the 50 best middle schools in the country. I commend John Rozzo, [then] supervisor of Middle Level Education, Joe DeMar, Fort Couch Middle School’s principal, and Erin Peterson, our middle school assistant principal for grades 5-8, as well as the students and staff at Fort Couch, for this recognition.” The building renovation project vastly improved the Fort Couch facility, access, parking, learning and storage spaces, technology, physical plant, safety, and security. Fort Couch was recently awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification at the Silver Level by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification, a result of the dedication and commitment by the USC School District and leadership of its Board of School Directors and administration, represents an additional $605,740 in PlanCon reimbursement to the District from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Silver LEED certification, issued to both Boyce and Fort Couch—the first of its kind for any school in Western Pennsylvania—is due to exemplary environmental, energy, and sustainable design performance of the building and its site. Specially, the categories of the LEED certification for Fort Couch Middle include high-performance for its sustainable site, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation including utilization of the school as a teaching tool for environmental learning. Upper St. Clair resident and Fort Couch architect David McLean of McLean Architects added a little personal historical perspective to the renovation. “This project was a unique opportunity for us, not only because of LEED certification, but because the original Fort Couch School was designed in 1950 by my great-uncle, Paul F. McLean, of the firm Button & McLean, a predecessor to our present company.” He added, “Fort Couch is an excellent example of how buildings need to change to meet new circumstances. This includes changes in learning and instruction, as well as in use of resources.” Besides the LEED certification, building honors are all about the people, not the bricks and mortar. Fort Couch achievement is due to the extremely dedicated administration and leadership team, professional and classified staff, parents, and students.
Joseph DeMar, Fort Couch principal, and Frosina Cordisco, USCSD director of business and finance, proudly display the LEED Silver certification plaque.
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A quick scan of headlines in recent Upper St. Clair School District eBLAST electronic newsletters celebrate a few of the many achievements and pursuits of Fort Couch students: • Fort Couch Mathematicians “Add Up” Top Scores at AMC 8 and PML • Odyssey of the Mind Teams Capture Awards for Creative and Critical Thinking • Middle School Math Tournament “Sums Up” Hard Work, Focus, and Talent • Student Spells “Achievement” at Competition and Fort Couch Student Wins Regional Competition • Students Honored at State Level by National PTA Reflections Program • Musicians and Singers Are Invited to Prestigious PMEA Festivals • Middle School Students Prove that “MATHCOUNTS” • Hope for Haiti Continues at Fort Couch • Fort Couch French Students Celebrate a Holiday Tradition • Middle School Teams Take Top Spots in Calcu-Solve Competition • Future City Inspires USC Visionaries • Eighth Graders Interview and Gain Insight from Local WWII Veterans • Fort Couch Presents Shrek–The Musical on May 2-3 • “Fort Couch on the Field” Debuts at Baldwin vs. USC Home Football Game • Boyce and Fort Couch Students Celebrate National Chemistry Week • Fort Couch Student Council “Builds Character” While Hosting Conference • Seventh Grade Language Arts Students Write and Illustrate Their Own Children Stories Fort Couch staff members are also frequently in the news. Curriculum Leader Bradley Wilson was selected by the National School Boards Association as a “20 to Watch” technology educator and for being “an innovative seventh grade teacher who leverages technology to customized instruction for his students.” (See article on page 73.) Fort Couch Librarian Mary Grace Kelly is currently assisting the Pennsylvania Department of Education in writing the Pennsylvania Library Curriculum. Language Arts teacher Eric Magliocca wrote and published the thriller/mystery novel The Red Triangle. Curriculum Leader Andy Lucas was selected as “Teacher of the Year” for the 2012 Blended Schools Network. So, what’s the secret of Fort Couch’s success? How is it possible that this school continues to win so many awards and praises from the professional community? The vision of Fort Couch Middle School as well as the Upper St. Clair School District is one that focuses on preparing students to be successful contributors to an ever-changing global society by providing a nurturing, engaging, and challenging learning environment. Numerous traditions and practices have evolved to Continued on page 72 Fall 2014
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The Awards Keep Rolling in for Fort Couch Continued from page 71
best meet the students’ needs, including the following sampling: • Interdisciplinary teaming • Advisory program • Exploratory program • Continuous progress grading and reporting of summative assessments, formative assessments, and skill progression • Biannual curriculum reviews and unique curriculum leader model • Possible participation in the Middle-Years-Program of the International Baccalaureate • Differentiated multi-text approach in all reading classes • Math courses that range from remedial to two-year accelerated beyond normal curricular progression • Inquiry-based curriculum employing spiral-approach for annual instruction in multiple-strands of science • World language program equivalent to completion of a first-year high school language course • Professional learning community structure • Teaching guidance counselors • High participation in extracurricular and co-curricular activities • Strong connection between Fort Couch and the community, parental support, volunteerism, engagement, and participation in the school The entire staff recognizes a climate of mutual support, collaboration, and positive feedback. New to Fort Couch this year, Resource Language Arts teacher Michael DaVia remarked that “everyone is incredibly welcoming, open, and truly driven.” He said he felt “incredibly blessed” to work at Fort Couch. “My
Photo credit: David McLean, architect
fellow staff members are knowledgeable and realize that only effective learning customization comes from working together with respect and care.” The final word as to what makes Fort Couch so special comes from principal Joseph DeMar: “It begins by building a positive culture of professional educators and people who rely on one another, acting in the best interest of the whole child, establishing personal connections with each staff member and taking genuine interest in their lives, and treating staff members with respect and acknowledging their positive attributes and contributions openly.” In other words, according to Principal DeMar, “Attitude is everything!” n
Commending Fort Couch Middle School, Dr. Patrick O’Toole (left), USCSD superintendent, and Joseph DeMar, Fort Couch principal (right), accept the Pennsylvania State Senate proclamation from State Senator Matt Smith (center).
Teacher by Day, Restaurateur by Night Abdel Khila not only operates Kous Kous Café, a popular Moroccan restaurant on Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon, but he is also a language teacher in the Upper St. Clair School District. In the past, he has taught Arabic and French and currently teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) at the elementary and middle school levels. Because of the unique time-management challenges his schedule poses, Khila has experimented over the years with combinations of being open for dinner, lunch, and weekend brunch. As owner and chef of the restaurant he founded in 2009, he has also learned many valuable business lessons and is currently changing his model so it continues to delight his customers, but also becomes more profitable and is sustainable for many years to come. After recently surveying customers, and also consulting with a team of friends, which includes a university business professor, a chief financial officer, and a marketing/communications executive, he came to the realization that changes needed to be made. These changes include 72
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how he sources ingredients, his menu, hours of operation, and his staff training program—all while maintaining the high level of quality that both Khila and his customers expect. “I learned that there is a sweet spot where you can provide the highest quality food and service, charge a fair price, and be profitable,” said Khila. Some of the changes include closing the restaurant for lunch due to low demand. Kous Kous is open for dinner five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday, 5 to 10 p.m. On Sunday, the restaurant is open for brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Our research showed us that customers appreciate our fresh, healthy food and our unique flavor and Moroccan influence. They also tell us that they like the consistent quality of our food and the restaurant’s charming space and location. But, customers are also telling us they’d like to see more consistent hours and to be open more often for dinner. They’d also like to see variations to the menu,” said Khila. “So, we have changed our days and hours and have been adding periodic specials.” Fall 2014
Abdel Khila, USCHS teacher and owner of KousKous
He added, “Ultimately, we’d love to move into a larger space, and we believe the changes that we are making will help to get there. Because our seating is limited, we strongly suggest making reservations ahead of time.” Vi s i t t h e c o m p a n y w e b s i t e (www.kouskouscafe.com), Facebook (www.facebook.com/kouskouscafe) and Twitter (@kouscafe) for information on specials, new menu items, and restaurant news. Reservations are recommended. Call 412-563-5687. n See ad on page 12.
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USC’s Brad Wilson a “20 to Watch” Technology Educator Bradley (Brad) Wilson, Customization/Instructional Technology Curriculum Leader for the Upper St. Clair School District, was selected by the National School Boards Association (NSBA) as a “20 to Watch” educator for the last school year. Brad is among the 20 distinctive education leaders from across the country being recognized for their ability to inspire colleagues to incorporate innovative technology solutions that contribute to high-quality learning environments and more efficient school district operations. Brad was chosen by NSBA for being an innovative seventh grade teacher who leverages technology to customize instruction for his students. He has led the 1:1 iPad initiative with four teachers and 120 students at Fort Couch Middle School. Although iPads are viewed as the focus, Brad feels that they are merely a platform for other programs and apps to be leveraged, including Blackboard for content organization and opportunities for quick, yet high descriptive feedback, screen-casting videos to YouTube, and exploring the potential of The Explain Everything App to “redefine classroom instruction.” Brad demonstrates leadership in both formal and informal settings as he continues to champion District-wide initiatives and capacity building activities. He co-presented “Customizing Learning: From District Vision to Classroom Implementation” at the Customized Learning Summit, which featured school districts
from several states that were innovators in leveraging technology to customize instruction for students. For the past three years, Brad has created outstanding PowerPoint® presentations for Upper St. Clair School District presenters at major conferences, including National School Boards Association (2012) and Brad Wilson Pennsylvania School Boards Association (2011). As a classroom teacher, Brad serves as a professional learning community facilitator and has co-developed and facilitated the Fort Couch Student Leadership Academy, a unique weeklong course designed to enhance the authentic leadership skills of seventh and eighth grade students. Brad also demonstrates exemplary skills as a service leader. For the past three years, he has led a fundraising campaign to support students with disabilities. This community service project involves numerous staff, students, parents, and community members and has raised thousands of dollars for various charities. n
Dancing the Class Away This past June, students of IB Spanish 5 spent time learning how to Salsa and listening to dance step directions in Spanish. Cephus Moore, USCHS French and IB Spanish teacher, invited USC resident and Cali, Colombia, native Maritza Balta to two of his classes for a one-day, hands-on learning opportunity for his students in dance step moves for various Latin dances, including the cha-cha and Salsa. While spending most of the class time dancing, students also participated in a Spanish discussion about the history of Salsa dancing, where Maritza helped to settle a debate regarding the origin of that dance. This fun opportunity was a great way for the students to actively engage in a fun, social activity while using Spanish. n
IB Spanish 5 students, Maritza Balta, and USCHS police officer Joe Connor, a dance enthusiast
Maritza instructs USCHS Class of 2014 student Jimmy Smith in the cha-cha
Maritza Balta (front, center) and IB Spanish 5 students Fall 2014
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Boyce’s Battle of the Books This March, more than 200 students put their book knowledge to the test at the annual Boyce Middle School Battle of the Books competition. Students read five books: Stranded, Small Steps, Game Changers, Eight Keys, and I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, and were quizzed on questions from each book. Boyce librarian Ginny Husak created questions that challenged the students’ ability to recall details from each book. To make it a school-wide reading event, teachers sponsored various teams. Teams dressed in costume, adding to the fun. In sixth grade, there was a tie for first place between “Antonio’s Wonderful Animal Onzie Pack,” with team members Juli Tarcson, Mathena Jencka, Rebekah Chikuni, Shoshanah Karow, Lauren Hart, and Anika Sinha; and “Team Accelerated,” with team members Zach Smith, Jason Choi, Jack Clark, Braden Yates, Aleksa Rodic, and Chand Vadalia. The fifth grade winning team was “Miss Mel’s Southern Belles,” with team members Antara Cleetus, Richa Mahajan, Marina Bulazo, and Natalie Rach. The students enthusiastically participated in the event and it helped motivate some students to read more than they normally would have on their own. n
Antonio’s Wonderful Animal Onzie Pack members, left to right, are Rebekah Chikuni, Anika Sinha, Boyce guidance counselor Amy Antonio (team sponsor), Juli Tarcson, Shoshanah Karow, Lauren Hart, and Mathena Jencka
Cranes for Peace Dawn Yoder, Boyce teacher
A Japanese legend holds that if a person who is ill makes a thousand paper cranes, the gods will grant that person’s wish to be well again. The students in Boyce Middle School’s Yoder/Jones team were taught about a Japanese girl from Hiroshima who
struggled with what was referred to as the “atom-bomb disease.” At age 12, Sadako Sasaki developed this disease, ten years after the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. Sadako attempted to make one thousand cranes to grant her wish for life. Sadako Sasaki died on
Left to right are Boyce teacher Dawn Yoder and students Ayano Fukuda and Fatima Mendez 74
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October 25, 1955. Her friends and classmates worked together to fold the remaining 356 paper cranes that she did not complete so that Sadako would be buried with one thousand. Hiroshima Peace Park in Japan was created as a monument to Sadako and all the children who were killed by the bomb. In this park, there is a statue of Sadako, standing on the Mountain of Paradise and holding a golden crane in out-stretched hands. Every year on Peace Day, children from all over the world send one thousand paper cranes to be hung under this statue. Avano Fukuda, a student on the Yoder/ Jones team, and her mother taught the other students how to make the paper cranes. Mrs. Fukuda, who speaks little English, enjoyed her first experience with helping out at school and sharing her origami skills with the students. A native of Hiroshima, Mrs. Fukudo was quite knowledgeable about the Sadako story. The Yoder/Jones team sent all one thousand cranes to Hiroshima to be entered into the world data base to honor the wish engraved on the base of Sadako’s statue: “This is our cry. This is our prayer. Peace in the world.” n
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USC Selected for Tablets in Education Program Upper St. Clair School District has
been selected for the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation’s “Tablets in Education” program, an innovative educational program that uses the latest in tablet technology to motivate students to learn in an atmosphere that is both fun and informational. As part of the program, USCSD will be receiving 20 Kindle Fire XDs, 20 sky blue shock covers, and a charging cart. “Today’s students are 21st century learners. They thrive in a fast-paced environment with knowledge at their fingertips. With the ‘Tablets in Education’ program, we will engage students to become better readers, mathematicians, scientists, and learners,” stated Raymond Berrott, USC Director of Technology. The “Tablets in Education” program will be implemented at one of the District’s elementary schools during this school year. The Kindle tablets will be used to enhance teaching and learning throughout all curricular areas to develop 21st century skills, engage students, and customize instruction. n
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Cancun Via Upper St. Clair
During the 2013-14 school year, Baker Elementary students and their physical education teacher, Becky Findley, embarked on a year-long project in the school’s physical education classes. They collectively added their daily warm up laps around the gym to equal the actual distance from Upper St. Clair to Cancun, Mexico. Each week the classes began by entering the gym and performing different locomotor movements that were posted on the wall in both English and Spanish. As the school year progressed, they were posted only in Spanish. They also counted in Spanish and English as they stretched during class. Maps of the United States and Mexico were placed on the wall, and progress was marked on the map for the students to see. Students eagerly checked their weekly progress on their journey. The students skipped, hopped, leaped, karaoke’d, and slid along their way around the room and on their way to Mexico. The entire school “arrived” on their imaginary trip to Cancun, Mexico, just in time for a week-long Cinco de Mayo fiesta. The students entered the gym to mariachi music, palm trees, a grass beach umbrella, and beach chairs. They celebrated in their physical education classes by playing beach volleyball, fishing (Baker style), and enjoying the Limbo and Mexican dances. n Fishing, Baker style
Baker students with Baker gym teacher Becky Findley at their Cinco de Mayo festivities Fall 2014
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Baker Leadership Club Pam Dillie, Baker teacher
Several years ago, Upper St. Clair High School started the Leadership Academy program, under the guidance of USCHS associate principal Dr. Lou Angelo. A few years later, Dr. Claire Miller expanded the program to younger students with the goal of teaching rising fourth graders the “Five Principles of Leadership” during a one-week summer Leadership Academy. When the staff reflected on the learning from the week, Dr. Miller encouraged the camp staff to take “leadership” back to your schools and make it your own. Beginning in the fall of 2012, with the encouragement of Baker Elementary’s principal Dr. Pat McClintock-Comeaux, Baker evolved the leadership initiative into a year-round program called the fourth grade Leadership Club, with its mission to have its student leaders promote the cornerstones of commitment, teamwork, integrity, and courage through the actions of leadership. Baker staff members sponsoring this club include Pam Dillie, Kara Manion, Jaci Covelli, Jourdan Chahine, Brittney Moskovitz, Anne Conrad, Amy O’Korn, and Kristen Rose. Two of the student “leaders,” Sammy Tindale and Sarah Christensen, together share their thoughts about key activities of the club. Did you know Baker Elementary has a fourth grade Leadership Club? In Leadership, fourth grade students are taught to be leaders. They do many things, including Brainy Bunch, Baker Gives Back, welcoming new families with tours, and creating videos to model good behaviors at Baker School. “Baker Gives Back” is where students brainstorm and collect many things to give to the needy. Currently, we are making and “giving back” rainbow loom bracelets to a local charity.
Members of Baker’s Leadership Club
Leadership Club sponsors a mentoring program called “Brainy Bunch,” which partners fourth grade “leaders” with first and second graders. The leaders read books with the younger students and help them with math problems and writing. Leadership Club welcomes new families to Baker. When a family is visiting Baker and considering moving into Upper St. Clair, they are often given a tour of the building by one of Baker’s young “leaders.”And when a new student starts his first day at Baker, a member of the Leadership Club shows him where his classroom is and introduces him to his new teacher. Another leadership group created several skits and videotaped them for the morning announcements to model good behavior. One skit helps teach kids to be quiet and not disturb others while they are learning, while another teaches students to be safe in the halls by walking instead of running. Baker Elementary staff and students successfully embraced the District’s Leadership program and made it their own through the Leadership Club, benefitting the school in many ways. n
Eight Months in Eight Minutes! Boyce Middle School Team Journeys to Odyssey of the Mind World Finals Most 11-year-olds these days have a pretty busy schedule. There’s soccer, dance, piano, baseball, guitar... and that’s just the month of October! Seasonal activities usually wrap up in six to eight weeks, but not for a group of fifth graders from Boyce Middle School, including Christian Chiu, Declan Gessel,
The team, including (clockwise) Declan Gessel, Christian Chiu, Constantine Tripodes, Sammie Seewald, Brianna Lin, Joseph Markovitz, and Max Murtough, enjoys the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals opening ceremonies. 76
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Brianna Lin, Joseph Markovitz, Max Murtough, Samantha (Sammie) Seewald, and Constantine Tripodes. As part of an Odyssey of the Mind team, this particular group of creative kids worked together for eight months problem-solving, brainstorming, and collaborating on an eight-minute performance that took them all the way to the World Finals in Iowa last school year. Odyssey of the Mind is the world’s largest creative problemsolving program for students in Kindergarten through college. Students involved in Odyssey of the Mind apply their creativity to solve one of five problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. They bring their solutions to competition on the local, state, and world level where they are judged on creativity and risk-taking. Thousands of teams from the U.S. and abroad participate in the program, learning the value of brainstorming and teamwork, while developing life-long problem solving skills. The team from Boyce chose the performance problem, “Seeing is Believing.” In this problem, they were required to create and present an original performance about a community that feels threatened by something in a location it has never visited. They also had to devise a creative method to select a traveler to visit and explore the location, and send a message home to convince the community that there was nothing to fear.
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PYP Project Reaches Beyond Streams Each year, fourth grade students at Streams Elementary choose a project for their annual Inquiry Exhibition (IE), a culminating activity for the IB Primary Years Program (PYP). After investigating and choosing an organization that helps others, students conduct research and create a presentation for the spring IE, raising awareness about the various organizations. David Wang, now a fifth grader at Boyce Middle School, chose to focus on the Alliance for Infants and Toddlers, an early intervention service coordination agency for families of children who have developmental concerns, ages birth to three years. Kathee DiPietro, David’s mom, said that they contacted the Alliance when they noticed developmental delays in David. The Alliance started providing services for David when he was about 18 months old, and over the years the family has kept in touch with his coordinator, Judy Kemerer. When David was looking at various organizations for his project, Kathee told her son that The Alliance met the criteria he needed. While conducting his research, David went to the Alliance’s offices and met with Judy, three additional coordinators and the executive director, and other people who had worked with him as a young child. David also conducted a parent survey, emailing it to families who had used The Alliance’s services, and compiled the results. Judy was David’s main contact at the Alliance, and she came to the IE, quite impressed with all of the projects and student presentations. Afterward, the director of the Alliance requested David’s poster and PowerPoint® presentation for their state verification visit in June. They used David’s work as an example of early intervention
success (with David) and also because the data he collected shows the broad impact of their work. They also asked that David present for their staff in-service training. Kathee praised David’s mentor, third grade teacher Leslie Smirniw, saying that the project was a great learning experience that offered project planning and organizational skills that will help David Wang with his PYP Inquiry Project mentor, Leslie Smirniw him in middle school. Leslie said that David’s project was special because he had a personal connection to the organization. “He had such passion and enthusiasm for the program, and he was so proud to share information about the organization,” said Leslie. “David has been such an inspiration,” she continued. “When he presented to my third grade class, he sent such a good message to others. I told my students that when it came time for them to pick a project, they should choose something that has meaning to them and run with it like David did.” David’s PYP project story continues. One of the people with whom David spoke while visiting the Alliance was the woman who spearheads their annual toy drive. As a result of that conversation, David decided to organize his own toy drive to complement the Alliance’s toy drive. n
Their “solution” was a humorous and quick-witted story about a group of Kindergarten students who feel threatened when they hear that a local exhibit of paintings that “speak” to people will be coming to their school. With a classroom contest that requires the bravest student to touch Van Gogh’s ear, they send Peblo Picasso (the fictitious grandson of Pablo) to stop the paintings from coming. After a ride on the classroom pet Andy Warthog, Peblo learns what it really means when a painting “speaks” to a person and sends his message home via TV broadcast. Art was an inspiration and a theme for the team from the start. “The kids did a lot of research,” said parent Laura Murtough, who helped coach the
The team rehearses with their art gallery of paintings that “speak to people.” Left to right are Max Murtough, Constantine Tripodes, Sammie Seewald, Brianna Lin, Declan Gessel, and Christian Chiu.
team alongside parents Stacey Seewald and Meridith Markovitz. “They studied Seurat, Munch, Warhol, Van Gogh and—the artist whose work may have inspired them most—Picasso. They thought Picasso’s cubism period produced paintings that might seem scary to a five-year-old, especially if they started speaking!” That premise helped create an entertaining and unique tale. The team’s performance produced a first place win at the Odyssey of the Mind regional tournament at Moon Area School in March. From there, the team advanced to the state tournament in Berwick in April where they again took home a first place. That win qualified them to compete at the World Finals competition, which was held May 28-31 at Iowa State University. At this level, they joined 836 teams from 35 states and 15 countries, including China, South Korea, India, Russia, Poland, Singapore, and Mexico. Out of 58 teams in their division for the performance Special props for the performance included Andy Warthog and an artifacts shelf problem, the team was awarded displaying Vincent Van Gogh’s ear. fifth place with an honorable mention. n For more information about Odyssey of the Mind, visit www.wpaodyssey.org. To learn about Odyssey of the Mind in Upper St. Clair, visit www.uscootm.com. Fall 2014
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Did You Know? Did You Know? SD 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? 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? French Students Send Help to Haiti Earlier this year, Fort Couch French students collected supplies for needy children in Haiti, assembling 150 bags, each containing vitamins, soap, a washcloth, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a small toy.
French students displaying the bags they packed are, left to right, front row: Nathalie Frenette, Brianna McCay, Ari Gnad, and Kate Rosello; back row: Caroline LeKachman, Athena Hobbs, Kayla Senneway, Maya Fall, and Abby Skeel
Three Participate in PMEA Sing Fest Late this past spring, three students from Boyce Middle School were selected to participate in PMEA’s District 1 Elementary Sing Fest West at Moon Area Middle School. Fifth graders Marina Bulazo and Clare Joyce and sixth grader Gracie Lowden (who was selected for the second year in a row) spent a day rehearsing along with over 120 other fifth and sixth grade students from the Western Pennsylvania region under guest director Shawn Funk, an elementary general music specialist from Fox Chapel School District and director of the Talisman Choir of the Children’s Festival Chorus of Pittsburgh.
Thomas Steve Named “Most Positive Athlete” USC’s Thomas Steve (USCHS 2014) was recognized as the “most positive” athlete in the category of Boys Golf as identified by Positive Athlete Pittsburgh underwritten by the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. The most positive athlete is defined as a positive athlete with the following traits: optimistic attitude, encouraging teammate, servant leader, heart for others, admits imperfections, always gives 100%, and puts the team first. Beginning this fall, Thomas is attending and playing golf for Notre Dame.
Thomas Steve
Ben Huss Named to the Big 33 Team Ben Huss (USCHS 2014) was named to the Big 33 Team, representing Upper St. Clair for Team Pennsylvania to challenge Team Maryland on June 15 at Hershey Stadium. An exciting game, Team Pennsylvania lost in double overtime. Beginning this fall, Ben is attending and playing football for Duquesne University.
Ben Huss and USC football coach Jim Render at the Big 33 game.
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Junior Achievement Comes to Boyce This past May, USC community leaders volunteered their time to teach a full day to Boyce Middle School fifth graders for the Junior Achievement program. The volunteers from the local Bethel ParkUSC Rotary were Dennis Gilfoyle, Junior Achievement CEO, Dr. Keith Apelgren, retired surgeon and professor, Natalie Mihalek, attorney, and realtors Marshall and Sandy Goldstein. The students spent a day studying the global marketplace and learning concepts, including trade barrier vocabulary, the workings of the WTO (World Trade Organization), and converting currency. Team teachers Patrick Jones, Dawn Yoder, Sam Gallaher, and Megan Loughran led the Junior Achievement pilot with their teams of students at Boyce Middle School.
Fall 2014
Left to right are Jennifer Schetley (music teacher and chorus director at Boyce) students Gracie Lowden, Marina Bulazo, and Clare Joyce
Play Ball! Boyce Middle School student Richa Mahajan took first place in the fifth and sixth grade essay portion of the Pittsburgh Pirates Jackie Robinson Art, Essay, and Poetry contest, winning six tickets to a Pirates’ game this past April. Congratulations!
USC Dominates at Spelling Bee This March, more than 100 fourth through eighth grade students competed in the 64th annual Scripps Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Upper St. Clair took four of the top ten spots! Placing first was Suneel Banerjee (Fort Couch), who competed at the National Spelling Bee held in Washington, D.C. this past May. Alex LeKachman (Eisenhower) placed fourth, Christian Chiu (Boyce) placed ninth, and Daniel Wang (Streams) took tenth place. Promising Poets The following students were chosen to have their poems published in the spring 2014 Creative Communication Poetry Contest publication: Luke Adelman, Zain Aizooky, Anna Bacik, Sujay Banerjee, Amy Bellas, Topher Bishop, Sunny Chai, Annika Chaves, Claire Chen, Rebekah Chikuni, Jason Choi, Catherine Dowds, Dylan Fall, Taylor Finkelstein, Melanie Geronian, Taylor Hutter, Nick Kalra, Sydney Lisak, Katie McCurrie, Emma Mertz, Max Murtough, Brett Nyman, Danny O’Brien, Alex Pikos, Avaneesh Rade, Brooke Reitz, Harley Robinson, Alpa Sehrawat, Callahan Sollie, D.J. Stalder, Hailey Thomas, Maxwell Turnwald, Chand Vadalia, Angela Xaio, Annie Xaio, Eric Zack, and Sarah Zadrozny.
Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did Did
You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You You
Chem Contest Winners Michael Nastac and Akshay Prasadan placed second and third, respectively, in the First Year category of the 2014 Secondary School Chemistry Contest sponsored by the Pittsburgh Section of the American Chemical Society (ACS). At the separate competition of ACS Chemistry Olympics held on April 30 at the University of Pittsburgh Chevron Science Center, USCHS chemistry teams took honorable mention in Category I, third place in Category II, and second place in Category III. Upper St. Clair participants in the 2014 Chemistry Olympics included Category I/ Honorable Mention–Michael Nastac, Akshay Prasadan, Gaurav Bhushan; Category II/ Third Place–Patrick DeMarco, Katherine White, Lawson Wilkinson; and Category III/ Second Place–William Petley, Alex Hardwick, Matthew Becker
Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? PittsburghYouth Ballet Know? & Know? ENROLL NOW www.pybco.com Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Librarian Part of State Committee This past June, Fort Couch librarian Mary Grace Kelly was selected to participate on a Pennsylvania Department of Education statewide committee developing the “Model Curriculum for Pennsylvania School Library Programs.” This group has been at the forefront of developing an integrated curriculum that partners with teachers to implement Pennsylvania Common Standards and helps K-12 students build necessary information literacy skills. Mary Grace also spoke at the National Catholic Education Association in April, where she co-presented with Mary Kay Biagini, Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh on “eBooks: An Appealing Option for Students in School Libraries.”
Challenge 24 District Competition Challenge 24 is a math card game where players compete to be the first to make “24” with four numbers. Fort Couch and Boyce Middle Schools school-wide 24 competitions determined the top students for each grade—fifth grade: Christian Chiu and Reshma Gudla, sixth grade: Devon Ekbote and Braden Yates; seventh grade: Brooke Christiansen and Devon Lang; and eighth grade: Sahil Doshi and Theja Duvvuru. These students represented USC at the Regional 24 Competition held at the Jefferson Hills Municipal Center in April. For fifth grade, Christian won the medal for second place overall and Reshma took home a medal for fourth place. For sixth grade, Devon finished third and Braden finished fourth. In the seventh and eighth grade groups, Brooke finished in first place, winning a gold medal, and Theja earned a silver medal. Sahil competed in the platinum round, where the 24 patterns can include exponent operations in addition to the four main operations, and earned the gold medal.
Challenge 24 participants
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Fall 2014
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SD
Health and Wellness The Decision to Stop Tobacco Use
Matthew StantsPainter, DO, Osteopathic Program Director/DME, Washington Health System A tobacco addiction is one of the hardest habits to break. However, choosing to quit can be one of the healthiest decisions you ever make. The nicotine in tobacco is addictive, which is why you constantly crave it. Both cigarettes and chewing tobacco contain nicotine, a dangerous chemical. Quitting tobacco can be made easier if you have a plan. Select a specific date to quit. It’s best to choose a time when stress will be relatively low, even if that’s a couple of weeks away. Tell someone in your support system your quit date. Accountability will help improve your chances of success. Write down a list of all the reasons you want to quit. Your reasons could be to decrease your risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer, or maybe you just want whiter teeth and fresher breath. The reasons don’t matter, as long as they are important to you. Keep track of your smoking or chewing habits for a week or so. Write down where and when you use tobacco so that you can learn what triggers the habit. When you quit, you can practice avoiding those situations and creating new routines. Throw away anything that goes along with tobacco use, like ashtrays, spare cigarettes, or chew. If you keep them “just in case” then you won’t feel fully committed to quitting. It’s very important to set up a great support system. Think of friends and family you can call when you feel like giving up. There are also support hotlines like 1-800-QUIT-NOW. You can also find
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some great resources and support at www.determinedtoquit.com, which has a program that will send you text message reminders of your dedication to quit. Learn coping techniques to replace the tobacco. Taking a hot bath can help ease tension at the end of the day. Breathing techniques and stretches can have the same effect. Try to make a new habit of practicing these things daily. One of the best ways to quit successfully is to avoid your triggers. Everyone has habits and daily rituals that they rely on. If yours involves using tobacco, it’s time to change that habit and replace it with something new. If you always have a cigarette with your cup of coffee in the morning, try switching to hot tea or a glass of juice. Nicotine replacement therapy aids are available over the counter, which can come in many forms, including patches or gum. There are resources that can help you obtain these for free, like the “determined to quit” website mentioned above. Other cessation aids must be prescribed by a doctor, including bupropion and varenicline. Talk to your doctor about your plans to quit using tobacco. He or she will help you determine the best and safest option for you. n If you are in need of a primary care physician to assist you with this decision, call Washington Health System Family Medicine Center at their Washington (724-223-3100), .Canonsburg (724-745-4100), or Cecil (724-973-7414) offices. See ad for Washington Health System on this page.
Health and Wellness
Preparing for a Visit to the Doctor David A. Nace, M.D., Medical Director of Asbury Heights Your visits to the doctor should include sharing information about any medical concerns and getting answers to questions you may have about your health. Preparing in advance for your next doctor’s visit will assure that all of your needs are addressed. Below are suggestions from the National Institute on Aging to help with your next doctor visit. Make a list of your concerns and rank them in order of priority. If you have more than a few items to discuss, put them in order and ask about the most important ones first. Don’t put off the things that are really on your mind until the end of your appointment; bring them up right away! Share information about any symptoms. Examples of symptoms include pain, fever, a lump or bump, unexplained weight loss or gain, or having a hard time sleeping. Be clear and concise when describing your symptoms. Your description helps the doctor identify the problem. Take information with you. Be sure to have a list of all of your medications. You should also take your insurance cards, names and phone numbers of other doctors you see, and your medical records if the doctor doesn’t already have them. Make sure you can see and hear as well as possible. Remember to take your eyeglasses to the doctor’s visit. If you have a hearing aid, make sure that it is working well and wear it. Let the doctor and staff know if you are having a hard time seeing or hearing.
Consider bringing a family member or friend. A family member or close friend can take notes during the visit and help you remember what the doctor said. If you don’t have anyone you can bring with you, take along a notepad and pencil and write down the main points, or ask the doctor to write them down for you. Find an interpreter if you know you’ll need one. If the doctor you are visiting doesn’t speak your language, consider bringing an interpreter with you. Even though some English-speaking doctors know basic medical terms in other languages, you may feel more comfortable speaking in your own language. Don’t let language barriers stop you from asking questions or voicing your concerns. Plan to update the doctor. Let your doctor know what has happened in your life since your last visit. If you’ve been treated in the emergency room or by a specialist, tell the doctor right away. Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep, or energy level. Also tell the doctor about any recent changes in any medications you take or the effects they have had on you. At Asbury Heights, we are focused on enabling our residents to live life as fully as possible. We track trends and results, so we can recommend the very best, personalized care for you. That’s the value of Living Well at Asbury. n Learn more about Asbury Heights at www.asburyheights.org. See ad on page 21. Fall 2014
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Health and Wellness What You Don’t Know About Sciatic Pain Maribeth Twerdok
Remember when you could play a full round of golf, run after your kids on the playground, or kneel for hours in the garden—all without pain? We often take our health for granted until we encounter problems doing the things that used to be easy. With age, low back and leg pain become more common, and many people develop a condition called sciatica. It is important to understand that sciatica is a nerve issue. All of the nerves in the body originate from the spinal column. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body, running from the lower back down through the backs of the legs. It controls the muscles of the lower legs and provides sensation to the thighs, legs, and soles of the feet. So even though you may be suffering with leg, buttock, hip or even calf pain, chances are good that the sciatic nerve is actually compressed somewhere in the spinal column. There is a misconception that sciatica is a disorder; it is really a symptom of a disorder. Sciatic pain usually develops as a result of general wear and tear on the structures of the lower spine, rather than as a result of injury. Typically, the symptoms of sciatica occur on only one side of the body. The pain may radiate above and to the outside of the knee. It varies in intensity and frequency and is described as dull, achy, sharp, a “pins and needles” sensation, or similar to an electric shock. It can be a shooting pain that makes sitting or standing nearly impossible, and may be worse when you sit, sneeze, or cough. Sciatic pain can occur suddenly or can develop gradually. If the compromised nerve is seriously injured, chronic pain and muscle weakness, such as a “drop foot,” may occur. Sciatic nerve compression or impingement can be caused by misalignments of the spine (called vertebral subluxations), a bulging disc, spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal), pregnancy and childbirth, or a tumor. Any of these conditions can disrupt and compromise the nervous system. The sciatic nerve is often irritated in the pelvis at the sacroiliac joint. If you have ever fallen on your hip or pelvis, had a leg or hip joint injury or surgery, or had a muscle imbalance from performing a sport or activity, you may have a rotated pelvis which stresses the sacroiliac joint and the sciatic nerve that runs in front of it.
The sciatic nerve can also be compressed in the buttocks area. Simple actions such as pressing on the gas pedal while driving can cause this muscle to contract, thereby putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. Dr. Marc Micucci, of D&M Chiropractic and Therapeutic Rehab, in Upper St. Clair, states, “We specialize in treating acute and chronic sciatic pain, and see many patients who are frustrated and desperate for relief from their debilitating symptoms. They’re often not aware that the pain originates in their spine, and are relieved to learn that we can help them.” If you have not tried chiropractic care, you may not know what a safe, non-invasive and effective solution it can be for treating sciatica and many other conditions. A chiropractor’s main objective is to decrease pain and increase mobility, helping the body heal itself naturally, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for medication. It is based on the principle that undetected subluxations lead to pain and reduced function and performance. Chiropractic adjustments correct restricted movement of the spine and help to restore misaligned vertebrae to their proper positions in the spinal column, alleviating the muscle spasms, pain, and other symptoms related to sciatica. In addition; cold/heat therapy, TENS unit stimulation, and therapeutic exercises that stress proper body mechanics are often used. Dr. Micucci concludes, “It’s important not to wait to seek help if you’re suffering from sciatic pain, as it may continue to worsen. Often patients visit their primary care physician for this problem; instead, they should be seeing a chiropractor, a specialist trained in treating the spine and nervous system. I’m happy to be able to say we’ve had success in resolving this painful condition for many patients.” Like many people, you may not have realized your leg or hip pain was actually sciatica, but with the proper diagnosis and chiropractic help, you may soon find yourself on the golf course, on the playground, and in the garden once again. n See ad for D&M Chiropractic on page 83.
Unplug During Your Workout You may have been taught not to run with scissors, but were you told not to run with headphones? Many people have grown attached to listening to music while they run or walk, but turning the volume up can cause you to “tune out” safety hazards. Dangers of Distraction. A study from the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMM) and the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore found that incidents involving serious injury to pedestrians wearing headphones more than tripled in recent years. In the 116 cases from 2004 to 2011 that were studied, 70% of them were fatal. Moreover, in nearly a third of the cases, a horn had been sounded to warn the victim, which the victim couldn’t hear. “People have to be aware that they can’t multitask completely. Any time you are doing two things at once, one thing is going to suffer,” explains Richard Lichenstein, professor of pediatrics at UMM and lead author of the study. “Listening to your player and walking is multitasking; in addition, headphones physically prevent the ability to hear warning signs, thus putting you at risk for injury.”
Stay Alert While on the Go. The statistics spell out the problem: Wearing headphones while walking or running outdoors is dangerous. “Headphones are best suited for a gym or someplace less dangerous than a road,” says Lichenstein. “If you must wear headphones outside, use the sidewalk and remember the basic rules of looking both ways.” While your best safety option is simply not using headphones outdoors, you can help reduce distraction by: • Use only one ear bud. • Keep your music low. • Pause the music before crossing intersections or railroad crossings. • Make eye contact with drivers before entering the street. • Invest in apps such as AWARENESS! which interrupts your music when loud noises are detected. • Combine smart headphone use with additional precautions when exercising outdoors, including wearing reflective clothing when running at night, jogging in well-lit locations, and avoiding areas with heavy traffic. n
Article complements of State Farm®. See ad for Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent on page 42. 82
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Health and Wellness
WE SPECIALIZE IN THE TREATMENT OF SCIATIC PAIN ! Do you have these symptoms? • Lower Back/ Buttock Pain • Radiating Leg Pain • Numbness / Tingling
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412-833-1101 dmchiro.com
Drs. Marc & Deana Micucci
2555 Washington Rd. Suite 620, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Fall 2014
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Health and Wellness Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ATTENTION UPPER ST. CLAIR RESIDENTS
Skate With Us at the MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER Open Year Round with Something for Everyone Friday Night Teen skate with D.J. from 8:10 - 10:30pm. Learn-to-Skate Classes/ Beginner & Advanced Hockey Clinics Youth Developmental & Adult Hockey Leagues Public Skating Figure Skating Sessions Daily Adult Skating & Instructional Programs Speed Skating * Broomball Birthday Party Packages
Bedner’s Farm Market We have all you ds r Halloween & fall nee Halloween & Fall Decorations Gourds & Jack Be Littles Potted Mums Corn Stalks Pumpkins Straw
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Call the Recreation Center at 412-561-4363 for times and rates Or visit us online at www.mtlebanon.org
Mon.-Fri.: 9am - 7pm Sunday: 9am - 6pm Holidays: 9am - 5pm 1520 Bower Hill Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Avoiding Readmission After Rehabilitation Marilyn Walsh, Baptist Homes Society
These days, hospital stays are short. Following an elective surgery or a medical event, your doctor may recommend a period of rehabilitation. That may include physical, occupational, respiratory, and other therapies provided as outpatient services or at a nursing or rehabilitation center. Though it may feel great to finally get back home, your recuperation process is not over. Getting back to your pre-event lifestyle will take time. Baptist Homes Society’s rehabilitation and wellness staff offer the following recommendations to help ensure a successful recovery. “Discuss your discharge instructions with your therapist, discharge planner, or other medical professional. To support your continued recovery, you should have a full understanding of what will be expected of you in the next few weeks. Read the materials carefully and follow all directions. Know your limits and restrictions on what you can do. For example, you might not be able to drive, take a bath, lift heavy things, or walk up or down stairs,” said Dana Belles, PTA, of Providence Point. “Falling, unfortunately, is a real problem for folks returning home. To prevent falls, clear your home of clutter and tripping hazards. Add safety equipment, including grab bars in the bathroom and railings on stairs. Move electrical cords out of the way and secure throw rugs to the floor. Avoid moving around in the dark. You may think you know your way around your home blindfolded, but good lighting is essential, especially near stairs 84
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and in bathrooms, ” said Susan Polka, OTA, of Baptist Homes. “Prescribed medicines can sometimes make you lightheaded. Let your doctor know if this is the case. If you are not sure how a medication will affect you, plan your dosage so that you are in a safe environment in case you experience side effects. Create a ‘recovery center’ in your home—medications, a jug of water and a glass, your favorite reading materials, the TV remote, tisTherapist Marty Wilt working with patient Elizabeth Hagan sues and your cane, walker, or crutches can be placed conveniently next to your favorite chair,” said Lindsey Lepley, speech pathologist of Providence Point. “Slow and steady. After surgery, your center of balance and your strength may take some time to fully recover. Slow, steady movements will help you regain muscle control and keep you safe. Turn the whole body before trying to lift or reach. Avoid rushing to do things like answering the phone or door,” said Marty Witt, OTA, of Baptist Homes.
Health and Wellness Look Fabulous … in minutes
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efresh and rejuvenate your skin with an age-defying facial peel.
Laurie S. Molinda, M.D. now offers “quick peels” in the privacy of her Finleyville office. These refreshing peels help erase fine lines and wrinkles and equalize skin tones. Facial peels administered under the direction of a physician are: • Low risk 724-782-0723 • Convenient • Inexpensive Laurie S. Molinda, M.D. Martik Plaza, 6108 Brownsville Road Extension Suite 204, Finleyville, PA 15332 Putting your health first.
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“Eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and sleep soundly. Good nutrition will help you heal more quickly. Staying hydrated and getting your sleep will also speed your recovery. In fact, these are three important tips to follow throughout your life,” said Fabiana Cheistwer, wellness director of Baptist Homes Society. “Managing medications is a vital part of your recovery. Make sure your medications are stored properly and that they are refilled as needed. Know what each drug is for, when you should take it, and whether it should be taken with or without food. Keep a checklist handy, ask your pharmacist for an organizer or multi-day dispenser, and review your medications each time you see your doctor,” said Maria Pfaff, OT, of Baptist Homes. “Follow up with your doctor as recommended and be sure to ask questions. At home, keep a pen and paper handy and jot down questions that pop into your head. Bring your notes with you to your
doctor visits. Are there any symptoms that you must report right away, such as fever, intense pain, or shortness of breath? If you notice these symptoms, know who to call and what to say,” said Beverly Fitzwilliam, OTA, of Baptist Homes. As a general rule, keep emergency numbers handy. Make sure you have phone numbers for people on the hospital team, as well as any other people involved in your care. Keep a list of community services you may need. If you are going to be home alone, invest in a medical alert pendant or other personal emergency alert system until you are fully recovered. The last thing you want to do is return to the hospital in need of more care and recovery. If needed, ask your family, friends, and neighbors for assistance to help you implement these simple tips that can help prevent a bad situation. n See ad for Providence Point on page 44. Fall 2014
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Around the Township
A Healthier U(SC)
The amount of mixed messages and misinformation about supplements, though, can make it confusing—and even overwhelming—for a person to decide what is best for them. This is due, in large part, to the fact that most supplements are not Supplemental Secrets regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Heather Holtschlag “The supplement industry, which has grown exponentially since the 1970s, is a billion-dollar-a-year industry and many comWalk past any nutrition store or scan the Internet, panies are competing for a bigger market share,” Dr. Wunderlich and you are bound to see something about supplements. We are noted. “Therefore, through the use of television commercials, becoming inundated with information about what we should be privately funded studies, and disinformation campaigns, the taking, eating, drinking, or juicing. It can be overwhelming, to say public receives many mixed messages on the type, dosage, and the least, and how do you know if you are being given the truth? use of both vitamin and herbal supplements.” James Wunderlich, DC, Wunderlich Chiropractic & Rehab, To help sort through all of this information, Dr. Wunderlich, and Upper St. Clair resident, helps to simplify matters for us and a 1999 summa cum laude graduate of the National College of gives the goods on what is important for our bodies and what Chiropractic, advises that consumers do as much research as could cause us more harm. Simply put, a dietary supplement is possible on their own about the benefits of taking vitamin and a product for ingestion that contains a dietary substance that herbal supplements to enhance their health. They also should will add further nutritional value to a person’s diet, according to consult with a licensed professional regarding the benefits of Dr. Wunderlich. The term “supplement” is a generic one that encomadding vitamin and herbal supplements to their dietary plan. passes one or any combination of the following: vitamin, mineral, “When searching for a vitamin or herbal supplement that is herb (or other botanical), amino acid, or a concentrate/extract. best, consumers should avoid vitamins that contain inorganic “Dietary supplements come in different forms, such as tablets, capsules, soft gels, liquids, or powders,” he explains. “There are ingredients such as synthetic dyes, chemicals, and preservatives,” primarily two types of supplements sold to the public in the Dr. Wunderlich said. “In contrast, what they should be looking United States—synthetic vitamins and whole food supplements.” for in a vitamin or herbal supplement is, at a very minimum, a According to Dr. Wunderlich, synthetic vitamins do not come quality whole food multivitamin, calcium, and vitamin D supplefrom natural food. These types of vitamins are the exact molecu- ment, as well as a quality omega-3 fatty acid (fish oil).” If you are an avid exercise enthusiast and go to the gym regular formula or the organic nutrient, but they contain none of the larly, Dr. Wunderlich, who has been a bodybuilder for the past co-factors required for your body to properly use a vitamin. One seven years, recommends determining your own specific goals example of a synthetic vitamin is ascorbic acid, which come from and consider searching for a supplement that will help you to corn sugar to make vitamin C. Most brands of vitamins sold in meet those goals. For example, people who are working out to the marketplace are synthetic. add muscle mass may want to add a high quality whey protein Whole food supplements, on the other hand, are whole foods isolate to their preand post-workout regimen, as well as a high with only water and fiber removed. These supplements contain quality creatine supplement. whole, enzymatically-active foods, which contain essential whole And though adding vitamins and supplements to a person’s vitamin complexes and minerals that provide a natural balance dietary plan has its benefits, there of synergistic nutrients. There are primarily two types of are some side effects that may sigBut how do you know if you supplements sold to the public in the nal something is wrong. “Synthetic should be taking a supplement? Everyone should, according to United States—synthetic vitamins and supplements that contain chemicals or food dyes can cause allergic Dr. Wunderlich. “Everyone should whole food supplements. reactions that may lead to a rash,” consider taking supplements, Dr. Wunderlich explained. “In addition, certain supplements mainly due to the use of pesticides on fruits and vegetables in that contain herbal stimulants or caffeine can lead to elevated the United States,” Dr. Wunderlich said. “We also should take blood pressure.” into consideration the techniques used to process food. And, we Before heading to the store to purchase a vitamin or supplesimply cannot eat enough food to obtain the disease-preventing ment, Dr. Wunderlich advises people to first determine if they or disease-treating benefits of most supplements. In addition, it is have a nutritional deficiency, which can be performed in a variety worth noting that the vitamin and mineral content of fruits and of ways, including blood work, an analysis, and testing. In addivegetables has decreased by 25% since the 1960s. As such, most tion, “people should do thorough research into the supplement Americans need to take a quality vitamin or supplement to make or vitamin complex that they want to buy and compare two or up for the nutritional deficiencies in our food supply.” three different brands for quality as well as pricing. The best Some of the most popular types of supplements on the market route to take would be to make an appointment with a licensed include multivitamins, calcium, fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids), and healthcare professional that specializes in nutrition. These may vitamin C. Some popular herbal supplements that people take are include chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, and dieticians.” n Echinacea, glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate, St. John’s Wort, and valerian root complex. For more information about vitamins and supplements or to inquire about nutritional counseling, contact Wunderlich Chiropractic & Rehab at 412-833-5704 or visit www.wunderlichchirorehab.com. 86
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Stones, Wires, and Pearls, Oh My! Jewelry with a Personal Touch Bridget Keefe, USC TODAY Intern
As an integral part of both the art community and School District of Upper St. Clair, Susan Watts is an inspiring example of a collision of passion and dedication, exhibited through her up-and-coming jewelry business, Susa Designs. When asked where the name for her company came from, Susan explained that her own name is derived from “Susa,” which is one of the oldest cities in the world with continual habitation, dating back to 4200 BC. This Iranian city is responsible for a portion of human history that has been discovered through the visuals of jewelry, ceramics, and other ancient artifacts. As a whole, Susa Designs represents a debut line of individuality and creativity that is evident in all aspects of the line. Susan has shared her love and talent for art with the USC School District for 23 years and continues to touch the lives of every student that she encounters as the full-time art teacher at Baker Elementary. After years of guiding her students in their creativity and showing them that they can do things they thought were impossible, Susan has decided to embark on her own creative adventure that allows her to use her natural talents to follow her lifelong desire of creating her own jewelry line and business. From the time she was a little girl making lace with her grandmother and sweat soldering copper pipes with her grandfather, Susan has always been drawn towards the arts. She admits, “I love taking unusual materials and combining them together to create something beautiful.” For example, Susan was able to recover petrified dinosaur bone and turn it into an accent for a set of cuff links she created. As a young high school student enrolled in Mt. Lebanon High School, Susan took every opportunity she could to explore the different forms of art classes, taking a particular liking to jewelry making. The fabricating, casting, forming, and stone setting techniques that she learned as a young girl are skills that she now passes on to generations of USC students looking to explore their own artistic abilities. When she moved on to college level courses, she knew she wanted to be a jeweler, but acknowledged that she had a lot to learn in the process. Looking back on her career path, Susan notes that she is very lucky to have taken the adventure through life that she has as both an art therapist and an art educator, because it has taught her many valuable traits and skills that she can now put towards creating her own jewelry pieces. Susan sees her jewelry company as being a way for her to not only express her creativity, but express a lifetime of learning and growth.
The in-home studio in which Susan designs many of her pieces of jewelry where she uses heavy duty machinery to cut, mold, polish, and solder her creations to perfection
One of the things that make Susa Designs so unique is the fact that Susan’s creations combine her love and passion for family, history, and nature into meaningful pieces of jewelry. In order to do this, Susan juxtaposes metal, gem stones, beads, pearls, leather, and crystals from all different sources using various methods to create pieces of jewelry that combine style, functionality, and meaning into one piece. For example, Susan is in the process of creating a line of jewelry made from sterling silver that will be imprinted with the lace that she made with her grandmother as a child. Susan finds that one of the most intriguing aspects of creating jewelry is designing the clasps for bracelets. The clasp is what makes the bracelet function, and in doing so, requires the synthesis of physics, engineering, and aesthetics to get the design just right. Susan looks to her favorite artist, Henri Matisse, as a source of inspiration for her clasps, often times incorporating some of his shapes into her own jewelry. For Susan, jewelry is more than just an accessory; it is something that becomes a part of your body and a direct reflection of your style and self. For this reason, she strives to always keep her business at a level where she can add customization and a personal touch that will spread to all those who wear her creations. Rebuilding inspirational objects from her family, friends, and nature into modern designs is something that fuels Susan’s creativity and drives her to keep exploring, designing, and learning from the things around her. The combination of both organic and modern aesthetics makes Susan’s jewelry a distinct expression of her growth over the years and her belief that you can have it all; you just need to give yourself a lifetime to do it. This whole process has been a learning experience that has taught Susan that if you work hard and always continue to pursue your passions, you can make your dreams a reality. n
Pictured is a bracelet that Susan designed in honor of Noah, a young boy who died of a rare disease known as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, or TTTS. Susan used a combination of Noah’s birthstone, continuous shapes, and two strings of pearls to represent not only Noah and his two-and-one-half-year cancer battle, but also his identical twin and the legacy he left behind. Fall 2014
Cuff links that Susan created using petrified dinosaur bone as the central stone and sterling silver as the setting
Contact Susan to see more of her designs or learn more about her business at shw000@hotmail.com. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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e r e H m Fro Erin Gibson Allen
Hot, Hot, Hot!
Our hometown is at a slow simmer, and the heat is rising. In the past few months, I have had separate, recurring conversations with long-time locals who have commented that our region is hopping in a way that is new and different and difficult to articulate. The city of Pittsburgh, which has always been a lovable place in the eyes of those who live here and often in the eyes of those who visit, has heated up over the past few years. While it is difficult to cite scientific or census data, locals are replete with anecdotal evidence of the exciting vibrancy the city is experiencing. Traffic headed into the Fort Pitt tunnels builds up more than it used to; not just during rush hour or an hour before a home game. The “T” feels more crowded. More people are headed downtown for different reasons, at different times of the day. Also, more people are taking up residence downtown and commercial office space in the city is approaching capacity. Active construction of new skyscrapers and proposed new residential developments and hotels combined with strategic historic preservation are developing to create a resurgence of downtown life. With these developments, I envision smaller, interesting stores turning up in new places. Pirates games are more fun and the crowds are bigger and more energetic, drawn by players with personality and promise. The skyline view at the Highmark soccer field games is almost as impressive as the view enjoyed at PNC Park and the crowds are likewise energized. Farmers’ markets and arts festivals open and are swarmed with locals. Interesting restaurants are opening their doors and setting
up tables on local sidewalks and rooftops. Friends inquire as to whether one has tried such-and-such new spot yet. The newspapers hint at the groundbreaking research and education happening at our local universities and hospitals, even more than five years ago. More is happening in these institutions than any one person realizes. The city has always been a wonderful place to live, combining Midwestern family values and a strong work ethic with a touch of Northeastern tradition for culture and education. While I’m sure naysayers might point me to statistics that cast doubt on my observations, the metrics Pittsburghers use to measure our city have never been the same as other cities. What is best about our city is difficult to articulate and has to be experienced. The same is true with the recent elevation in buzz in the city. I can’t demonstrate it with statistics, I can only say I’ve experienced it, and others around me agree. If you haven’t noticed the buzz, you haven’t been out and paying enough attention. Attend an outdoor concert on the North Shore or in the opulence of Heinz Hall. Go shopping for coffee or bread in the Strip District and grab a sandwich while you’re there. Explore Lawrenceville or the South Side. Compare notes with your friends and family. This Pittsburgh girl will be out and about, listening carefully to the elevated hum that the streets emit and getting excited about what the region will look like in another five years. Exciting things are best experienced from the start, just as the swell begins. Not everyone has noticed, but many have, and I’m calling it—our city and surrounding neighborhoods are hot, hot, hot! n
Summer Swing: A Celebration of Success St. Clair Hospital’s 60th anniversary celebration
continued in July at the annual Summer Swing gala. The popular, fun-filled annual fundraiser, which was held at St. Clair Country Club, was again in the experienced and capable hands of event chair and Upper St. Clair resident Vicki McKenna, who helped deliver an outstanding evening of elegance, entertainment, gourmet food, and “friendraising” for the hospital. Summer Swing was special this year, says Vicki. “The 2014 Summer Swing was both a walk down memory lane and a celebration of the hospital’s extraordinary evolution. Summer Swing is the community’s chance to join in the celebration and express our pride in our wonderful hospital.” Personally, Vicki expresses her avid support of the hospital in a number of ways. She has been involved in Summer Swing since 2011, and this was her third year as chair. She serves on the board of directors of the St. Clair Hospital Foundation, a role she sees as an opportunity to share her great respect for the hospital with the community. “When my children, Andy and Kylie, were in school, I was actively involved with the Upper St. Clair School District. After they graduated, I wanted to put my energy into something just as meaningful. I was so impressed by what 88
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St. Clair has achieved and at how it has grown from a small general hospital into a full-fledged medical system offering sophisticated care in nearly every specialty. You can get all your medical needs taken care of at Vicki McKenna St. Clair. I decided that the hospital would become my new focus.” As event chair, Vicki worked with the hospital’s foundation to plan and coordinate both Summer Swing and the annual Donald J. Hastings Golf Classic, which was held a week later and also at St. Clair Country Club. Her energy and enthusiasm seem to be boundless, and her role is multifaceted. She and the committee members procure the venue; acquire gifts for the silent auction; choose the décor, menu, and entertainment; and oversee every detail. Vicki, who is married to attorney Mark McKenna, holds private parties in her own home to raise donations and gifts for the silent auction. She was particularly excited about the “special
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vibe” that Summer Swing had this year. “Summer Swing had a 50s vibe without actually being an oldies party,” The hospital opened in 1954 so the event had a 60th anniversary theme. One of the many highlights was a “History of St. Clair Hospital” exhibit that people explored throughout the evening. Summer Swing, Vicki explains, is St. Clair’s largest fundraising event, and this year featured more than 500 attendees who enjoyed high-end food stations that included pasta, sushi, beef, and other specialties. The evening’s entertainment was provided by singer and dancer Billy Hartung, a Seton-LaSalle High School and Point Park College graduate who has found success on Broadway, in films and television, and in the professional theatres of the region. He is the executive director of the Center for Theatre Arts in Mt. Lebanon. To Vicki, Summer Swing is a celebration of St. Clair’s success. “The people of the South Hills are beginning to understand what has been happening at St. Clair and to recognize the quality of care they can obtain right in their own backyard. There is no need to go elsewhere for progressive medical care; we have it right here at home. Physicians are transferring to St. Clair because the hospital offers them an environment where they can do their very best work with all the support services and resources they may require.” “I credit St. Clair hospital president and CEO Jim Collins, his fellow administrators, and the extraordinary team of physicians, nurses, and staff at the hospital for this transformation. Everyone at the hospital has worked tirelessly to make this happen. For all this to continue, we need the support of the community, and the annual Summer Swing is an excellent opportunity to show support,” said Vicki. n
TODAY Awards Scholarship UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is proud to announce that Sarah Collins, USCHS Class of 2014 and daughter of Gordon and Carrie Collins, is the recipient of the 2014 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Journalism/Communications book scholarship, awarded each year to a deserving USCHS graduating senior. Throughout her years at USCHS, Sarah has demonstrated her aptitude and penchant for journalism by working on the school’s literary publication, the Montage, for two years, the school’s yearbook, the Clairvoyant, for one year, and writing for The Almanac for two years as a youth reporter. Sarah was inducted in the Quills and Scrolls Society and enjoys reading, writing prose and poetry, and photography. During her time at USCHS, Sarah was inducted into the National Honor Society, served as a member of Natural Helpers, lettered on the varsity USCHS Dive Team, was a member of USC Cares for Kids, and served on student council. This fall, Sarah will be attending Elon University in Elon, North Carolina. Congratulations Sarah! n With Sarah Collins, TODAY award recipient, are Dr. Patrick O’Toole, USC superintendent, (left) and Dr. Michael Ghilani, USCHS principal (right)
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us This past June, Ernst & Young LLP announced the winners of its 2014 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ award for Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Included in this group of nine leading entrepreneurs was John Burke, chief executive officer of Armada. Selected by an independent judging panel, the winners were revealed at a gala at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown hotel. The Entrepreneur Of The Year Program honors entrepreneurs regionally, which then leads up to the national awards. Now John Burke in its 28th year, the program has expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 145 cities from over 60 countries throughout the world. John and his wife, Lisa, live in USC with their two children, Delaney and Patrick.
Earlier this year, Rachel Geffrey, USCHS Class of 2014, earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest award in girl scouting. The leadership-based award project challenges girls to identify and investigate an issue, build a team, create and present a plan, gather feedback, take action, and educate and inspire. Girls are required to complete 80 hours of work, 15 of which must be leadership related. Most Gold Award recipients spend between one and two years on their projects. Rachel chose self-injury—the act of Rachel Geffrey deliberately harming your own body— as the focus of her project. She researched the subject and created a brochure to help educate people about the issue and a blog to provide a safe place for people to share their stories. In addition to scouting, Rachel was co-captain of the varsity rifle team and a member of the Book Club and National Honor Society. Rachel has also had her poetry published in the school’s literary magazine, Montage, and as part of an online national poetry contest. The daughter of Eileen and Wayne Geffrey, Rachel is attending Chatham University as a creative writing major. To learn more about self-injury, visit Rachel’s blog at www.wordstolivebyproject.blogspot.com.
Suburban Dry Cleaners, located in Upper St. Clair, Pinebridge Commons, recently celebrated 36 years in the business. Aware that the company’s accomplishments are not simply attributable to genius leadership or hard-working employees, owner Frank Capo states, “We grew and prospered because we found some great friends who gave us continuous support along the way. So this is a thank-you note for using our services, being dedicated customers, and for helping to put Suburban Dry Cleaners, with its five locations and a coin-operated laundromat, on the map.” 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15241, 412-221-2065 90
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Bridget Keefe, USCHS Class of 2012 and daughter of Jim and Maureen Keefe, interned at UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY this past summer. Entering her third year at Miami University of Ohio, she is working towards a degree in finance with a minor in marketing. Bridget enjoyed writing for the magazine (see article: “Stones, Wires, and Pearls, Oh My!” on page 87) and learning about the stages of editing and other aspects of our community publication. After working with the magazine and its staff, Bridget hopes to get involved in more creative writing opportunities in the future. Bridget’s brothers, Gavin and Connor, attend USCHS. Alexa Gross (USCHS Class of 2012) moved from New Jersey to Pittsburgh with her parents, Richard and Claudia, and her younger sister, Julia, 11 years ago. TODAY interns, Alexa Gross and Bridget Keefe The family settled in Upper St. Clair and the girls attended the District’s schools. Upon graduation, Alexa headed off to Washington & Jefferson College, where she is a junior, double major in communication arts and Spanish, with an emphasis in public relations and a concentration in professional writing. This past summer, she prepared for her junior year as an intern at USC TODAY and a full-time employee at UPS. Alexa looks forward to reading her work in our community’s publication (see “USCHS Serves Up Competition” on page 66).
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services recently named Bill Russo as its Pennsylvania Southwest regional manager. Russo, a vice president of the company, managed the Upper St. Clair office for the past 20 years. Howard Hanna’s Southwest region includes neighborhood real estate offices in Mt. Lebanon, Collier, Peters Township, Sewickley, South Hills, South Side, Upper St. Clair, and Washington. After joining Howard Hanna in 1987 in the Mt. Lebanon office, Bill managed the Upper St. Clair office since the early 90s. During his tenure in the Upper St. Clair office, he Bill Russo helped the office grow to become one of the top real estate offices in Western Pennsylvania. Active in the community, Bill is a big supporter of the Children’s Free Care Fund. Last year, the Upper St. Clair office was the top fundraising office of Howard Hanna in Pennsylvania. In addition, Bill has served as Howard Hanna’s representative on the board of directors of the Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh (RAMP) and has co-chaired their annual “R Day” event. Bill and his wife, Kim, are long-time residents of the South Hills, where they raised their sons, Eric and Anthony.
When Peter, Nina, and James Khan settled in Upper St. Clair, the area gained a family of talented performers and a nationally-recognized entertainment company. Peter and Nina met in Florida as colleagues at Disney and soon realized that they were perfectly harmonious, both personally and professionally. Blending their world-class performance backgrounds with seasoned management experience, the couple established a multifaceted wedding and event business, Rockhan Entertainment. The creative pair impresses audiences as part of the company’s featured, award-winning Elite Show Band (www.eliteshowband.com), supported by a bevy of brilliant dancers, instrumentalists, and vocalists. In addition to working on both sides of the spotlight, Peter and Nina help others capture marvelous moments, courtesy of Rockhan Photography (www.rockhanphotography.com), a media company offering professional photo and video services. Nina also shares her extensive musical knowledge as a private vocal coach to students ages 11 and older. While these busy parents have played many theatrical parts in their careers, their most cherished roles are as mom and dad to three-year-old James. Peter and Nina researched Pittsburgh and its adjacent neighborhoods extensively, seeking a vibrant community where their son could grow and thrive. Upper St. Clair’s stellar school district, cultural diversity, and all-embracing energy resonated with Peter, James, and Nina Khan the Khans who swiftly relocated their lives and businesses. The family hopes to set the stage for lifelong friendships and lasting professional partnerships with the welcoming residents of Upper St. Clair. Learn more about The Elite Show Band here at www.eliteshowband.com.
In 2011, Connie Gibson, gifted coordinator at Fort Couch Middle School, accompanied Matt Vernacchia (USCHS Class of 2011) to the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair. He had an amazing project called IrisScribe, and industry sponsors recommended that he patent his work. The sponsors conveyed to him the typical cost to apply for a patent, which was prohibitively expensive, precluding him from being able to consider initiating the process. Connie’s brother, Douglas G. Gibson, also a USC alumnus (1984), is a partner at Covington and Burling LLP, an international law firm headquartered in Washington, D.C., known for its commitment to pro bono work. After Connie consulted Doug, he facilitated Matt’s association with the patent law experts at Covington. Andrea Reister, a partner at Covington & Burling LLP, and Greg Discher, special counsel, represented Matt in prosecuting the patent application on a pro bono basis. After a long, arduous process, the patent has finally been issued! In the fast-paced environment of a hospital intensive care unit (ICU), good doctor-patient communication is essential. However, medical conditions and devices often inhibit a patient’s ability to speak. Current assistive communication devices are either prohibitively expensive or cumbersome and time-consuming, creating a gap in communication during a Matt Vernacchia, displaying IrisScribe at the patient’s first days in the ICU. IrisScribe is Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair a low-cost software solution that bridges this gap by enabling patients to generate words with eye movements. In the system, a webcam acquires an image of the patient, and an image processing algorithm classifies patient’s gaze as pointing in one of eight directions. Each direction corresponds to an option on a graphical menu presented to the patient on the computer’s display. The patient-generated text is displayed on screen and read aloud through the computer’s audio system. The only hardware requirements are an existing computer and a $6 webcam. A new user can be trained in approximately ten minutes, and, after training, can type a simple phrase such as “hello world” in 40 seconds. While further testing is required before the system is ready for implementation, IrisScribe shows promise as a low-cost solution to ICU communication. Fall 2014
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Happenings! Plein Air Mt. Lebanon, a neighborhood celebration of the arts, is once again holding its fall arts festival on Saturday and Sunday, October 11 and 12, in the Mt. Lebanon park off Cedar Boulevard, nearest the outdoor community pool. This year, the festival expands to include juried arts. Booths will feature original art across a variety of media, including jewelry, wood, sculpture, glass, ceramics, fiber, wearables, mixed media, leather, metal, and 2D. Touchstone, a nationally-recognized craft center in the Laurel Highlands, will lead public demonstrations of various art media throughout the weekend. USC Panther stadium blankets are available through the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. Measuring 60" x 80", the blanket is silky, plush, warm, attractive, and machine washable. These blankets make great holiday gifts, teacher gifts, birthday gifts, graduation gifts, or other recognitions for those who live or have lived in Upper St. Clair. The cost is $60; proceeds benefit Upper St. Clair community events sponsored by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. Order online at http://www.cfusc.org or bring a check made payable to “Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair” to USC School District Central Office at the USC Township Building, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.
St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church on Mohawk Road in Brookside Farms, USC, is sponsoring a salad buffet and fashion show in its church hall on Saturday, November 8, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. In addition to many delicious salads to choose from, a fashion show will be presented by Phyllis’ Fashions. Cost is $20 and seating is limited. To purchase tickets or for more information, call Lois Griffith at 412-854-0853 or Nancy Romza at 724-745-2274. The second phase of the Southern Beltway, a toll road that will connect I-79 (near the Allegheny-Washington county line) to Pittsburgh International Airport, was announced with a groundbreaking ceremony this past May when Governor Tom Corbett and other dignitaries gathered to formally recognize the project. Estimated at $550 million, the construction project will add 13 miles of toll road highway to the Findlay Connector, known as Turnpike 576. The expected completion is 2019 and it is anticipated to encourage development and add thousands of jobs to the area. Upper St. Clair Township should expect to realize positive effects from the toll road and resulting development due to its proximity to the I-79 connector. Check out page 32 for information about Bounty at Boyce, Saturday, November 8.
Traveling with TODAY
Sporting tans and smiles aboard a 65-ft. catamaran are some USC families enjoying spring break 2014 in the Gulf of Mexico and in the intercoastal waterways of Florida. Members of the Burke, Dudzinski, Godwin, Gross, Johnsen, Kelly, McDonnell, and Shaffer families surround our community magazine as they sailed the day away. TODAY was thrilled to travel with them and to get out of town with the many other USC families who also take the opportunity to enjoy relaxation and good times “somewhere other than here” during spring break. n 92
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is proud to
travel with you, too! Read the following criteria to find out how. • Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Digital photo or hard copy 35mm accepted. ‣‣ For digital, attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. ‣‣ For 35 mm, attach post-it to back of hard copy photo, listing the required information (see below). • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location. • List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Deliver one 35 mm photo with details to the USC Township receptionist in an envelope marked “USC TODAY,” or • Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line. Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.
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20 Years
LOCAL Advertiser Index
Fall 2014
www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home
Advertiser Page * Angelo Associates, Inc. ......................................................................... 53 * ARAMARK ............................................................................................. 61 Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. ...................................................................... 29 Ardolino’s Pizza ..................................................................................... 13 Asbury Heights ...................................................................................... 21 Bedner’s Farm Market ............................................................................ 84 * Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South...1 BISTECCA - STEAKHOUSE - WINE BAR ............................................... 12 Brentwood Bank ...................................................................................... 7 Brookside Lumber ................................................................................. 63 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................. 89 Center for Theater Arts ........................................................................... 55 Certified Home Remodelers ................................................................... 53 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC ........................................... 85 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate .................Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office..........................Back inside cover Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ........................................................... 89 Coldwell Banker–James M. Roman........................................................ 39 College Nannies+Tutors ........................................................................ 93 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. .......................................................................... 31
Advertiser Page La Maison, Chef Garnett Livingston ...................................................... 93 Little Lake Theatre Company ................................................................. 39 * Louis Anthony Jewelers .......................................................................... 5 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ....................................................................... 43 Molinda, Dr. Laurie S. ........................................................................... 85 Michel, Melissa D., LPC ........................................................................ 43 Mount Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ................................ 93 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 84 NEWBURY ........................................................................................... 2, 3 Northwood Realty Services–Bonnie Detwiler ......................................... 31 Orthodontics by Dr. Reitz & Dr. Troy ...................................................... 43 Patricia Wozniak Henk, Attorney; Carole Kunkle-Miller, Phd.; Paula Hopkins, Attorney.......................... 55 Pediatric Dentistry South ....................................................................... 42 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 43 * Pinebridge Commons Associates .......................................................... 42 Pittsburgh Music Academy .................................................................... 55 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company........................................................... 79 PNC Investments–Thomas Walker ........................................................ 19 Preferred Drapery and Blinds ................................................................ 75
What They Said TODAY is one of the best magazines out there, having well-written, informative articles to share with the residents. TODAY has enabled me to provide various articles, educating USC homeowners about tree pruning and the awareness of shopping for properly insured companies. —Patrick Tolan, Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. D&M Chiropractic & Therapeutic Rehab, Inc. ....................................... 83 “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc. ............................................................. 20 Don’s Appliances ..........................................................Front cover, 10, 11 Executive Home Maintenance Service ..................................................... 9 Extended Day Services .......................................................................... 54 Farmers Insurance–Tom DiPasquale ..................................................... 54 Historical Society of Upper St. Clair ...................................................... 38 * Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................... 21 Howard Hanna–Bob Ellison ................................................................... 91 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley .............................................................. 63 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 53 JB’s Lawn Maintenance ......................................................................... 93 Jacksons Restaurant-Rotisserie-Bar ...................................................... 13 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein .................................... 79 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................... 42 Kous Kous.............................................................................................. 12
Premier Home Design Center .................................................................. 9 Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society Community......................... 44 RE/MAX Premier Group–Susanne Wagner ............................................ 61 * Rusmur Floors ...................................................................................... 95 * St. Clair Hospital ..................................................... Front inside cover, 96 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ............................................................ 44 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 12 South Hills Orthopaedic ........................................................................ 81 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ..................................................... 42 StonePepper’s Grill ................................................................................ 13 The Orthopedic Group ....................................................................... 7, 93 UBS Financial Services, Inc. ................................................................. 54 Uriah Landscape Supply......................................................................... 91 Washington Health System .................................................................... 80 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz .......................... 15
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY thanks our wonderful advertisers who have supported our publication for 20 years.
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Maria & Joe Lane
Global Connections. Local Traditions. The South Hills Office 412-833-5405 • 1630 Washington Rd, Pittsburgh PA 15241
© 2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh PA Permit No. 206
ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE
1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
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COLDWELL BANKER www.PittsburghMoves.com Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!
Fabulous home on a gorgeous lot with updates throughout! 4 bedroom two story with 1st floor office, new granite in kitchen, baths, and much more! John Geisler, 412-833-5405
Fantastic Colonial in Millgrove! Built with quality and updates. Govenors Drive. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, family room, den, great kitchen, game room, and 3 car garage! Hope Bassichis, 412-833-5405
One level living! Governors Drive. Great room cathedral ceilings, fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, hardwood floors, and granite island fully equipped kitchen. Anita Crago, 412-833-5405
Stunning custom built home with lovely renovations throughout! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room fireplace, game room, deck and brick patio. Professionally landscaped. Lynn Dempsey, 412-833-5405
Large, lovely custom built Colonial with center hall floor plan. 4 bedrooms, 2+2 baths, family room fireplace, den, game room, and covered back patio with deck overlooks fenced yard. Leigh Harkreader, 412-833-5405
Quality and perfection! Double door entry, family room fireplace and wet bar. Custom kitchen, 1st floor laundry, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, multi-level decking and new tile roof. Maria & Joe Lane, 412-833-5405
Well maintained Tudor in Trotwood West! Cathedral ceiling family room with fireplace, large game room, 4 bedrooms, 2+2 baths, and great views from living room picture window! Jane Krauth, 412-833-5405
Johnston Farms. Renovated 4 bedroom and 2.5 bath 2 story saltbox with dream kitchen. Family room plus den, game room, 2 fireplaces, sound system, and invisible fence. Anita Crago, 412-833-5405
Spacious Colonial with many updates! Ceramic tile entry and kitchen. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room fireplace and access to covered deck. Lower level game room! Hope Bassichis, 412-833-5405
Beautifully situated on a large professionally landscaped lot with many updates. Split Entry with open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, large kitchen, porch plus deck! K. Enick & D. Snyder, 412-833-5405
Spacious Split Entry featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, family room, game room fireplace, and great yard. Walk to playground, shops and the T! Kathi Kernan, 412-833-5405
Beautiful move-in condition Split Entry home with updates throughout. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, family room, and 2 car garage! Kathy DePaul-Green, 412-833-5405
Peters Township Office 412-831-5555 • 3244 Washington Rd, Bright and beautiful! Well designed stone and aged brick home boasts an open floor plan, oak floors, main level master suite, and a two story family room. Every bedroom has a private bath. Huge lower level. Sherry Tom 412-833-5405
McMurray PA 15317
South Hills Office 412-833-5405 • 1630 Washington Rd,
Pittsburgh PA 15241
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© 2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.