Fall 2020
www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair
Upper St. Clair Office • 180 Fort Couch Rd, Upper St. Clair, Pa 15241 412-833-3600 • HowardHanna.com
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Fall 2020
•
Volume 26
•
Issue 3
www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home • www.15241.TODAY •
11
Features & Around the Township
Responding to the Needs of Pennsylvanians
14
61
Roundabout Meet USC
63
Christian Gmiter Fills Position as Library Director
Jim and Lanny Form a Winning Team
Citizens’ Police Academy
70-77
We Coped. We Helped.
COVID-19 stories are shared in this special feature section.
68
Application
69
Home Heating Tips from the VFD
82
Meet the TODAY Interns, Past and Present, in Profiles
86
SHIM’s March to Sack Hunger
36 USC Music Program Earns Recognition
Township
Contemporary, Modern Women in 1947
16 12 WPXI Reporting Live
usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
27
School District
USCSD Ranks #1… and USCHS is Among the Best
30
High School Program Earns National Honor
32
Guides/ Directories
20 Educational Resource 24 Pinebridge Commons 52 Health & Wellness 88 Advertiser Index
Photo Ops
34 USCHS Senior Week 2020 44 Art as a Refuge 70 Quarantine Through the Eyes
of USCHS Students
All USC Schools Designated “No Place for Hate”
40 76 How We Responded
84 Traveling with TODAY @ Home 4
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
USCHS 2004 Boys Soccer Team Selected to WPIAL Hall of Fame
Cover
The fall cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY shows Giflillan Farm’s five decorated scarecrows that were erected to pay tribute to essential workers and honor those who served residents of USC during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. Under the direction of USCHS teacher Lynn Kistler, Gilfillan garden co-organizer, and Sue Wyble, Gilfillan garden co-organizer, the following USCHS students are responsible for creating the artwork for the life-size scarecrows: Antara Cleetus, Malorie Glancy, Naiya Livingston, Kate McQuillan, Kayleigh Weber (lead designer), and Liam Weber. —Cover photos by Ryan Dudzinski Fall 2020
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 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 marks 26 years of our publication.
The 103 rd 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 2020 edition deadlines:
Articles—September 24 Advertising—October 6
Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Online magazine: www.15241.today
@usctoday @usctmag @15241.today
Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager Dr. John T. Rozzo, 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, Advertising Executive Sarah Beitler, Advertising Executive, Marketing Executive Alison Hess, Advertising Executive Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Student Interns Julia Roeschenthaler, Bria Zegarelli
Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Sarah Beitler, Alison Hess, Kerry Turner, and Dorothy Clark. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. 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, 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 check, payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues, with their name and address, including zip code, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA 15241. Add $10 to cover international mailing.
Board of School Directors Barbara L. Bolas, President Patrick A. Hewitt, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Jennifer L. Bowen Phillip J. Elias Dr. Daphna Gans Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.
The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Winter 2020 issue and will be published in November 2020. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. 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
Township Board of Commissioners Mark D. Christie, President, Ward 4 Daniel R. Paoly, Vice President, At Large Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Ward 1 Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Rex A. Waller, At Large
Angela B. Petersen
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District, grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute. The 103rd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited.
Jennifer A. Schnore 6
Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Keith Aplegren, Judge Ronald Arnoni, Daniel Barr, Haley Beardsley, Cindy Brophy, Dr. Flavia Davit, Lynn Dempsey, Steven DeNoon, Lindsay Dill, Paul Fox, Christian Gmiter, Richard Hatch, Wayne Herrod, PA Sen. Pam Iovino, John Komisary, Jay Lynch, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Ron Morosky, Jim O’Brien, George Pashel, Eleanor Pigman, Steven Piper, Haley Roberts, Julia Roeschenthaler (intern & YWG), Vidhur Senthil (YWG), Robyn Smigel, Jay Sukernek, Debra Swift, Mandy Thomas, Greg Wagner, Marilyn Walsh, and Bria Zegarelli (intern & YWG).
Fall 2020
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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A Fall Note from the Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski
Dr. John T. Rozzo
Welcome to the fall edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our community’s go-to publication since 1994.
The year 2020 has provided unprecedented circumstances that have challenged all of us in ways we never could have imagined. A global pandemic, COVID-19 shuttered schools, businesses, and life as we knew it, while facemasks and social distancing became the norm. Through these difficult weeks and months, Upper St. Clair residents—young and old—continued to demonstrate unparalleled empathy and compassion to their neighbors and others within our greater community in a variety of ways, both big and small. The magazine’s front cover photo of Gifillan Farm’s scarecrows conveys our esteem for those who help others through their jobs and daily routines, and also for those who extend their hand to help in a moment’s notice. Mere words cannot capture the essence of what this expressive illustration so aptly describes. Thank you to the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair for welcoming this work of art on property that is dedicated to preservation for all to celebrate and enjoy! Over the past few months, the magazine staff has received numerous stories from our readers concerning the pandemic. People have shared how this situation has affected them, what resources they relied upon, and how they reached out and responded in kindness to others. Some stories were sad and emotional, others warmhearted and uplifting. All were timely and meaningful. Because this subject matter threaded through so many submitted articles, including stories from our volunteer fire department, students at the high school, and various community members, we devoted a feature section that can be found on pages 70–77, titled “We Coped. We Helped.” Take time to read and reflect on each story that we’ve shared here, as well as more stories that are peppered throughout the magazine. For other news about our schools and community, turn to the recurring featured segments: School District (pages 26–50), Township (pages 59–69), and Around the Township (pages 78–87) to read what’s going on. Also, check out this edition’s advertising guides—Educational Resource (pages 20–23) and Health & Wellness (pages 52–58)—for helpful resource material for you to consider. We hope that you enjoy this edition of TODAY as much as we love bringing it to you! Stay tuned for our winter edition, scheduled to arrive in your mailbox mid-November and includes the biennial residents’ guide chock-full of useful information about our community. Until then, get excited for the change of season and soon-to-be fall colors that will surely abound within the next two months. Hopefully, it will also mark a substantial improvement in circumstances for our region and our world.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools
For the most up-to-date information regarding Township services and our schools, visit: www.twpusc.org and www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home | @15241.today | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Fall 2020
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RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE District Court 05-2-20 Office: 412-835-1661 Fax: 412-835-4060
Hiras Professional Building 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Bethel Park, PA 15102
It’s easy to be cynical today. To see it, all we need to do is watch the news. I see crime, disputes, negativity, and despair in my courtroom every day. I think we all could use a little positivity in our lives. That is why I want to reward those who demonstrate the good in our society. I want to honor people who strive to make our communities better. I will be presenting two Outstanding Citizens awards this coming fall—one will be for an Upper St. Clair resident and one for a Bethel Park resident. I need your help in identifying those individuals who possess qualities that best exemplify an outstanding citizen. Please take this opportunity to nominate someone who you believe
Outstanding Citizens Award
best meets the criteria by using the nomination form below. For nominee consideration, a nomination form must be submitted by Saturday September 12, 2020. I will read all entries and choose the two honorees, each being presented with a commemorative medal and certificate. We will also pay tribute to the recipients with a photo and an article about their accomplishments in a future edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, as well as on local channels, Comcast channel 7 or Verizon channel 42. Thank you, in advance, for your help in recognizing that person who you believe to be an outstanding citizen worthy of this consideration. n
Outstanding Citizens Award Nomination Form
This award will be presented to an individual who has consistently: • Demonstrated excellent community leadership • Made significant contributions to our communities • Positively impacted the residents of our communities • Shown generosity and unselfishness through his or her actions Nominees should meet the above listed criteria and have resided in Bethel Park or Upper St. Clair, respectively, for at least two years. You cannot self-nominate. Name of Nominee: _______________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________ Phone #: ___________________________________ Describe the attributes and qualifications of the nominee and the reason(s) why you believe this individual should be honored (use a separate sheet of paper, if necessary). ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Your name (nominator):___________________________ Phone #:________________ Email:_ _____________________________ How you know the nominee:___________________________________________________________________________________ Return this application by Saturday, September 12, 2020, via mail to: Judge Ronald Arnoni Hiras Professional Building 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Bethel Park, PA 15102 or Fax your application to 412-835-4060 or send an email to heather.petronio@mdjs.pacourts.us. I hope this inspires you to participate in the nomination process! Again, thank you. 10
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Fall 2020
State Senator Pam Iovino, 37th Senatorial District Bethel Park Office Harrisburg Office 100 Broughton Road 458 Main Capitol | Senate Box 203037 Bethel Park, PA 15102 Harrisburg, PA 17120-3037 Phone: 412-831-0250 Phone: 717-787-5839 Fax: 412-831-2740 Fax: 717-772-4437 Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm Subscribe to my monthly e-newsletter: www.senatoriovino.com. Follow me on social media @SenatorIovino for regular updates.
Responding to the Needs of Pennsylvanians
The General Assembly has been actively responding to the pressing health and economic needs of Pennsylvanians due to COVID-19. I have remained focused on ensuring that state law and policy are supportive of the families and businesses that make Upper St. Clair such a great place to live and work. With summer mostly behind us and the new school year arriving, this edition’s update focuses on the actions we have taken at the state level to invest in quality, safe education. General Assembly Passes Interim Budget and Federal CARES Funding Due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s significant, yet still unknown, impact on our state budget, the General Assembly acted to pass a partial five-month budget to ensure continuity of government and services. The budget that was passed in late May, and which I voted in favor of, provides the same levels of funding to government programs as last year for the first five months of this fiscal year, and funds education for a full year to provide some certainty for our school districts. Balancing short-term financial stability, while also allowing more time to assess our commonwealth’s fiscal landscape and determine what additional federal funds will be made available to states, was a prudent bi-partisan approach in these unchartered times. We also appropriated $2.6 billion of Pennsylvania’s $3.9 billion in federal CARES Act funds. I am especially pleased that a number of my priorities will receive emergency funding under this plan, such as $722 million for health and human services, including testing and protective equipment for nursing homes; $225 million for small businesses; $150 million for COVID-related school safety (more details below); $125 million for childcare and early education; $100 million for emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency management; $72 million for higher education, including student loan relief; and $50 million in hazard pay for front-line workers. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, my focus during the coming months will be to evaluate all available options that best support the recovery of families, businesses, and our communities that bore the brunt of the pandemic’s economic impact. School Safety Funding In addition to the passage of the partial budget, the Public School Code was updated and enacted. One of the most relevant provisions of that legislation is the repurposing of the School Safety and Security Grant Program into the COVID-19 Disaster Emergency School Health and Safety Grant Program for the 2020–21 fiscal year. A total of $215 million will be available in the fund, and now has broader eligibility for use to meet needs spawned by COVID-19. Within that amount, $7.5 million is to be used for community violence prevention/reduction grants, $7.5 million is to be used by intermediate units on behalf of non-public schools, and $150 million in the fund can be used by schools for the following COVID-19 related needs: • Providing mental health services and support, including trauma-informed education programs for students. • Purchasing of cleaning and sanitizing products. • Training and professional development of staff on sanitation and minimizing the spread. • Purchasing of equipment, including personal protective equipment, thermometers, infrared cameras, and other necessary items. • Modifying existing areas to allow appropriate social distancing. • Purchasing education technology for distance learning to ensure the continuity of education. Expanding Student Grants for Higher Education The General Assembly appropriated an additional $30 million in federal CARES funds for Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) financial aid. This funding boosted the maximum student needs-based grant award from the originally projected level of $4123 to $4525, the second highest level in the program’s history. Additionally, to accommodate distance education enrollments for the 2020 fall term as a result of COVID-19, this year, students attending courses remotely maintain full eligibility. n
Fall 2020
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11
Lori Houy—WPXI Reporting Live from Upper St. Clair Wayne Herrod
Lori Houy, USC resident since 1998, is a well-known WPXI TV reporter. One thing you may not realize about TV reporters is that they are a lot like postmen, and here’s why. “Neither snow nor rain nor gloom of night stays these couriers from their appointed round.” Although this motto is thought to be the official motto of the USPS, it is not; but the Postal Service does acknowledge it as their unofficial motto. The phrase was originally derived from a quote in Herodotus Histories that refers to the courier service used during the time of the Persian Empire (500 BC). If you replace the word “courier” with “TV reporter,” the motto also fits perfectly for this job, as it aptly describes what is required of a reporter’s position. While appearing live on TV at all hours of the day and night and in all kinds of weather, TV reporters always meet and complete their appointed rounds. Lori is one of the many hardworking, devoted reporters who is on the scene to report emerging stories, regardless of the weather or other hazardous conditions. While you can find her on Pittsburgh’s Channel 11 news at all hours, you’ll mainly see her in the mornings. It is not surprising to find Lori 50 miles from Pittsburgh at 5 a.m. in five-degree winter temperatures, reporting live (and very cold). “It’s tough sometimes, but it’s part of the job,” she said. Asked about her typical day, Lori stated, “During the workweek, I get up at 2 a.m. and leave for the station by 3 a.m. To get my assigned story for the morning show, I attend a scheduled staff meeting that begins at 3:30 a.m. After the meeting, I leave with my photographer to a location for live reporting. Nothing is typical, and scheduled events can change in a moment’s notice. A TV reporter’s job is exciting, rewarding, and, yes, sometimes challenging. With every assignment, I visit new places and meet people from all walks of life. As a little girl, this was a career I’d dream of. And, my dream has come true. Totally infatuated with TV news throughout my youth, I decided to reach for my dream (although my father wanted me to pursue a career in medicine). News reporting looked like fun, and I wanted to give it a try.” Lori, a native of Harrisburg, graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in communications, which was followed up by a master’s degree in journalism from Point Park University. Her career in news started in radio in Bucyrus, Ohio. From there, she moved to Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, where she worked in radio at WANB. She got her first TV job in Youngstown, Ohio, at WKBN TV, where she worked as the morning anchor/producer. Lori then moved to Upper St. Clair and started her career at WPXI in 1998. She continues there today. An engaged USC mom while balancing her career, Lori and her husband, Jeffrey Houy, DDM, are proud parents of their three sons. Each graduating from Upper St. Clair High School, their collegiate paths and young adult accomplishments are as impressive as they are different. Their oldest son, Geoffrey (USCHS Class of 2012), attended West Virginia University and graduated cum laude with a degree in computer science. He is currently pursuing a career in software engineering. Their middle son, Jared, may be more recognizable as Jared Scott (his middle name and also stage name). Jared (USCHS 12
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Fall 2020
Class of 2014) attended Point Park University for two years, majoring in animation. Wanting more than traditional education, Jared moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting and modeling. CurThe Houys, left to right, Dr. Jeffrey, Geoffrey, Jared, Gabe, Lori rently in LA, he has appeared in numerous TV movies and web series. He shot a segment for the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, and has modeled and did a fashion shoot for Guess Philippines and Men’s Wearhouse. The youngest of the Houy sons is Gabe (USCHS Class of 2017). Gabe, a successful football and basketball player during his high school years, gained many athletic honors and was recruited by many college football programs. Gabe signed with the University of Pittsburgh and is a red shirt junior this upcoming season and starter on the offensive line. Gabe, at 6' 6" and 300 pounds, is very athletic. Based on my information, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Gabe in the NFL someday. Lori commented, with a smile, “That would be nice!” When asked about some of the most memorable stories that she’s covered, Lori brought up the 2019 Tree of Life Synagogue shootings in Squirrel Hill. “My photographer and I were covering a different story a few blocks away when we were called by our news desk to go for reports of an active shooter at the synagogue. After receiving the call and quickly changing plans, we arrived at the same time as the first responders. While we were not yet keenly aware of what was happening, we knew it was bad. We were so close in proximity to the site that we were actually moved back by the police to conduct our live reporting. It was intense, very sad, and very heartbreaking.” Lori recalled another memorable assignment. “We were sent to Shanksville the day after 9/11. The scene was devastating, with people in Hazmat suits at the crash site. It was a horrific event to cover.” While many of the stories that Lori covers can be hard and tough, she recalled one of her pleasant favorites. “A young alligator was spotted in a Shaler parking lot and was eventually captured by a wildlife specialist. After being caught, the alligator was safely brought to the news station for a live broadcast. I got to hold the alligator during the interview. Even though I was a Lori, holding an alligator during an interview bit nervous, I loved it!” The next time you turn to WPXI and see Lori reporting live from somewhere on something, remember that she’s living the dream she’s had since her youth. And, although Lori may be reporting in all types of weather and at all times of the day, she’s definitely enjoying her career, except maybe occasionally when the alarm goes off at 2 a.m. or when it’s near or below 0º for a scheduled outdoor winter shoot. n
State Representative Natalie Mihalek 40th Legislative District
3515 Washington Drive, Suite 540 McMurray, Pennsylvania 15317
724-942-2045 www.repmihalek.com
Facebook.com/RepMihalek
For assistance with any state-related issue, either call my office at 724-942-2045 or stop in to visit my office located at 3515 Washington Road, Suite 540, McMurray. To keep up with my legislative updates, follow me on social media: www.Facebook.com/RepMihalek, Twitter.com/RepMihalek, and Instragram.com/RepMihalek.
House Passes Stabilizing Budget in Face of COVID-19 Questions
Working to responsibly move the state forward during these uncertain times, I joined my colleagues in the state House in passing a state budget for the first part of the 2020–21 fiscal year, which began on July 1. We will be passing a second budget later this fall to address funding for the final months of the fiscal year. The plan provides certainty and stability for the next several months while we await more information about how revenues have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. With tax collection dates changed to July and August, we needed more time to ensure we have the data necessary to make smart budgeting decisions for the remainder of the fiscal year. This year’s budget process was by no means easy, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing devastating economic conditions as businesses and schools were forced to shut down and many Pennsylvanians struggled to keep their jobs and food on the table. This has been a challenging year for all of us. I am continually amazed and inspired by the resilience and strength of our communities as we worked together to get through these difficult times. Despite the challenges, we were able to pass a responsible state budget that spends approximately $25.8 billion and will protect taxpayers by avoiding any new or increased taxes. This budget also ensures that the core functions of state government are funded as
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we continue to gather information about the long-term effects of the pandemic. We know that our teachers, parents, and students made some pretty big sacrifices earlier this year with school closings and students being forced to quickly adapt to remote, online learning. We know that school may be different this fall when opened, but getting students back to the classroom is a top priority for all of us. Because of that, we ensured that this budget provided the necessary resources to help schools reopen safely. Additionally, we recognize that our state-related universities, state system universities, and private independent universities and colleges are a key component to reviving the economy and educating our students for the 21st century workforce. That is why we successfully committed to a full 12 months of funding for Pennsylvania’s pre-K and K–12 education, special education, career and technical education, and higher education, which is based on the current year’s budget. With this budget, which the governor signed into law, we also fully fund several health and human services programs. As your state representative, I know you expect government to operate effectively, and a timely budget is an enormous step in the right direction while our state faces many challenges that we have not seen in our lifetimes. n
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Contemporary, Modern Women in 1947 Never underestimate the power of a woman! Eleanor Mackie Pigman
A few years ago, I joined the Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair. It is an interesting club, filled with activities, worthwhile projects, and a book club known as The Literary Ladies. This appealed to me as a recent retiree; I like to be worthwhile. But it is so much more than that. The history of this group is a story worth telling. In 1947, Winoaa Goffe called together a group of women in the home of Vi Edward to form a club. They decided it would be a philanthropic organization “dedicated to education and improving the quality of life.”
Time for a Clubhouse
In March 1955, Nellie J De Bone donated two acres of land on Edgewood Drive to the club. And, there it was… the club owned land. Members decided they needed a house for their club. They raised the money through fashion shows, rummage sales, luncheons, flower and funnel cakes sales, and producing and selling three Woman’s Club cook books. Soon the club signed a mortgage for construction of a building. The building was designed and built. Decorating, painting, cleaning, landscaping, furnishing, and publicity to schedule catering events had to be completed. Dishes for the club were collected by members from a Duz Soap promotion of putting free dishes in their boxes. Club members not only held their meetings in the building, but they also used it to earn money for their philanthropic goals and pay down the building’s mortgage. They catered weddings, reunions, christenings, luncheons, bat mitzvahs and bar mitzvahs, variety shows, and political meetings. Not afraid of hard work, they would cook, set tables, wash dishes, and iron tablecloths at the club, and then hurry home to get dressed up to attend the planned event. Pictured at the first social event of the newly formed Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair on June 15, 1948, are, left to right, seated: Mrs. Charles Kent, corresponding secretary; Mrs. William (Winoaa) Goffe, Jr., president; standing: Mrs. Charles Provost, director; Mrs. George Stephenson, director; Mrs. Celim Green, recording secretary; Mrs. William Young, vice president; Mrs. H.C. Decker, director
The club is now 73 years old. The members used those years well, living up to their dedication to education and improving the quality of life. Over the years, $370,000 has been raised and given to assist many. How did that happen? By hard work, imagination, organization, and a “can-do” attitude. At its peak, membership grew to 475.
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After readying the club for a planned event, women would go home to quickly change clothes and return to attend the event.
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Space is limited — call 1.888.812.3435 to learn how to secure your apartment today. INDEPENDENT LIVING – ASSISTED LIVING – SKILLED NURSING MEMORY CARE – REHABILITATION 1290 Boyce Road » Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 » FriendshipVillagePA.com Creating a Library and Other Projects The same year they started to build the clubhouse, they also fulfilled their goal of “dedication to education.” They busily cleaned and painted three small rooms on the second floor of USC’s Mitchell Corners Shopping Center and collected $300 and gathered 250 books to develop a library for Upper St. Clair. Planned nature trails, work with the Girls Scouts, orphanages, and Mayview Mental Center was ongoing, funnel cakes were sold, and health fairs were planned and carried out by this amazing group of dynamic women.
A Clubhouse for 51 Years In January 1999, a broken pipe over the dining room near the piano flooded the auditorium. This unfortunate occurrence did not defeat this group. They continued to manage the house and hold events that were on the calendar. One member recalls being phoned at four o’clock in the morning to help during the night of the flood. There was no sitting around or giving up for this group of spirited women.
Mortgage Paid Off In 1983, the club celebrated as they paid off the clubhouse mortgage. But, sadly, membership began to shrink as more women joined the workforce. Twelve years later, it was no longer possible to manage the house; the clubhouse was sold in 2006. It served the club well for 51 years and helped earn money through the events catered by its membership and other fundraisers held there. The proceeds from the sale of the club allowed the membership to continue assisting charities and providing student scholarships. Scholarships The club, now 73 year old, continues with its goal of “dedication to education” as a vital part of the club’s activities. In 2018, the club gave student scholarships that totaled $24,000. In 2019, scholarships valuing $16,000 were presented. This year’s scholarship applications are being considered. The Woman’s Club has received little recognition for these large awards. Scholarship information and applications are at the high school guidance office for those interested. Celebrate and Join This dynamic, interesting women’s group continues to meet. Collecting goods for the needy, daytrips to historic sights, enjoying luncheons and a book club, they also continue to donate to many worthy local charities. The Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair continues to accomplish its goal: “to improve the quality of life.” The contemporary women in 1947 got it right. Their story and the fulfillment of their goals are timeless. n Eleanor Pigman, a member of the Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair, is a Peters Township resident. She is also a member of the Writers of Westminster, an amateur writing group headed by local author Jim O’Brien that meets regularly at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Fall 2020
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Jim and Lanny Form a Winning Team Story and Photos by Jim O’Brien
At Peter’s Place in Heidelberg, Jim Render and Lanny Frattare were jokingly having fun at each other’s expense. Jim was the honored guest being celebrated for his great coaching career at Upper St. Clair High School and as the winningest football coach in the history of the WPIAL. Lanny was the master of ceremonies. I was seated on the dais next to Lanny. Jim has become increasingly comfortable giving public speeches as the years have gone by, but his good friend Lanny said lots of great things about Jim that day, which took the pressure off of Jim to give a lengthy speech. Through the years, I may have given Jim a tough time at various award dinners and football team banquets, but I always respected him for what he’d accomplished as a coach—first at Carrollton (Ohio), then at Uniontown High School, and, finally, for 40 years at Upper St. Clair. I think Upper St. Clair had the two best football coaches in all of western Pennsylvania, with Chuck Noll (who lived in USC) in his 23 years as the Pittsburgh Steelers head coach and Jim (who lives and worked in USC) in his reign at the high school. Jim often told me that he’d like to write a book about his life in football. I told him that he’d already done most of the writing by contributing stories to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY about his players and the people he’d met along the way. All he needed was a preface, perhaps from Lanny or an introduction from me. Both Jim and Lanny hold a special place in my heart through our relationships and the beloved connection to the community we share, Upper St. Clair. I told Lanny about a period of time when I would drive back and forth between Upper St. Clair and Richmond, Virginia, and that I would listen to his Pirates’ games broadcast on KDKA radio while going through the empty Blue Ridge Mountains at night. As long as I was listening to Lanny and his familiar refrain, I didn’t feel quite so alone. There was comfort in hearing his voice in the same way I felt about one of his mentors and predecessors, the late Bob Prince, who made his home in Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair. Beginning in spring 2019, Jim and Lanny teamed up to host a TV show on USC community’s cable network, interviewing the likes of former pro golfer Missie Berteotti, her brother Jerry Berteotti, a former major league baseball player, as well as Sean Casey, retired St. Clair Country Club golf pro Phil Newcamp, and Pirates’ ace pitchers Steve Blass, Grant Jackson, and Kent Tekulve. Among others guests appearing on the show have been Mike Fisher, Suzie McConnell-Serio, Eddie Johnston, Gene Steratore, and Craig Wolfley. Linda Dudzinski, co-producer of the show and editor of TODAY, presented the idea to Jim and Lanny last May. They were quick to embrace it and moved its production forward under Glenn Ward, the Township’s Cable 7 manager.
Jim Render’s Reign I rooted for Jim Render and his Upper St. Clair Panthers for the entire 40 years of his career. We both moved to USC in 1979, Jim, with his wife, Pam, and me, with my wife, Kathie. It was good timing in every aspect. The Pirates won the World Series that year and the Steelers won their fourth Super Bowl in six years. I followed the high school sports teams and had a number of Upper St. Clair winning teams to cheer for, including Jim in football, Danny Holzer in boys’ basketball, Ernie Koontz in girls’ 16
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Left to right: Jim Render, Lanny Frattare, and Jim O’Brien at a broadcast of “15241 TODAY talk, On Stage with Jim and Lanny” this past June (photo by Glenn Ward)
basketball, Jerry Malarkey in baseball, and Dick Bradshaw in swimming and diving. I have a photo of Jim that I took during a football practice one day and thought it would be the perfect cover to go with my suggested title for his memoir, Render unto Jim. To me, he looked like Caesar Augustus, the way he stood at midfield before a game with his arms folded on his chest. When Kathie and I would walk the high school track for Jim Render—Unto Caesar exercise in the evenings, we would stop and say hello to Jim. He was always kind to us and generous with his time. I was elated for Jim when he rallied his troops in the final minutes of a hard-fought contest to defeat Penn Hills, 18–12, to win the WPIAL Quad A title on a Friday night at Heinz Field in 2006. The Panthers were trailing 12–11 with 5:41 left to play in the game when they mounted the championship drive of 59 yards. It took nine plays, capped by a torrid ten-yard run by Dane Conwell for the winning touchdown. Then Dane intercepted a pass to seal the victory and gain team MVP honors. I was impressed with how confident and composed Jim appeared on the sideline. “Somebody had to be,” he said when I spoke to him about it a couple days later. “I gave myself a little pep talk on the sideline. I said to myself, ‘Don’t flinch.’ I felt we could do it.” I was just as impressed with the way Jim embraced Neil Gordon, the Penn Hills coach, at midfield immediately following the game. They held onto each other and spoke to each other at length. “I felt empathy for Neil,” relayed Jim. “I know how tough it is to lose a game like that. Neil and I have enjoyed a good relationship through the years, and we do favors for one another. I respect him and I respect his program.” That game was Jim’s tenth appearance in the WPIAL finals in 18 years. This was the fifth time his team came away with the championship trophy and his fifth championship ring. He truly won one for the thumb with that game.
Jim and I are the same age (78 at this point), the same size (about 5' 8.5"), and usually on the same page. We’d compare notes from time to time when we’d see one another at King’s Family Restaurant in Upper St. Clair. That’s where Kathie and I found him and Pam, their son Eric, and Jon Miller, USC’s defensive coordinator, enjoying breakfast the morning after the 2006 USC football championship game. Jim’s other son, JT, was an assistant coach for the team at the time. I told Jim that Kathie and I had gone to the Petersen Event Center on Friday night to watch Pitt defeat Florida State resoundingly in a basketball contest. On the way home, we stopped for something to eat at Bado’s Restaurant in Mt. Lebanon. The WPIAL final was on television, and we sat on two high stools, moving them from the bar closer to the TV screen in the corner at the bar area to watch the remaining minutes of the fourth quarter. When Conwell scored the game winner, I jumped off my seat and shouted with glee only to turn around and see a number of men, mostly from Mt. Lebanon, looking at me. I apologized for my enthusiastic outburst. They said it was OK and that they’ve been there, too. I ran into Mark Gentile the next day at Ross Park Mall. As a high school junior, he was the starting quarterback to lead the Panthers (15–0) to the state title in 1989. He introduced himself by saying, “I sat near your daughter, Sarah, in a social studies class.” I told him about my excited behavior at Bado’s the night before. “I did the same thing last night at a bar in the North Hills,” he said. “I was so excited for Coach Render and the team. Coach was tough, but fair. He prepared us well for football games. He knows the game and he knows how to win.” Jim has had his share of critics through the years, and there were misguided people who tried to get him and Danny Holzer fired. Jim never bowed to any of them. He’d grown up in Ohio, which has produced more great football coaches, perhaps, than any other state in the country. He admired Paul Brown, Woody Hayes, Bo Schembechler, Ara Parseghian, Don Shula, and Weeb Ewbank, to name a few Buckeye-born coaches. They had their critics, too. He read their books and knew what it took to be a winner. I told Jim that this only reaffirmed what I knew about him a long time ago—that he knew how to coach a football team.
To which Jim replied, “I'm sure there are still some skeptics out there.” Jim says he was fortunate to come to Upper St. Clair and have the type of kids he had to work with through the years. “I always felt that if you get an Upper St. Clair kid to commit to football that he would be willing to work hard and prepare to play. I’ve had very few kids quit the program.” “I was lucky to coach in western Pennsylvania where there were so many good coaches to learn from,” Jim continued. “I learned from the best of them and grew up admiring guys like Woody Hayes, Ara Parseghian, and an uncle of mine who coached.” After retiring from the classroom, Jim maintained his coaching position at USC until January 2019, winning two PIAA Quad A titles (1989 and 2006) along the way. While coaching at USC, he garnered and was recognized for the most wins in WPIAL history, compiling an unprecedented 406–141–6 career record. Lanny Frattare Likes His Role as “The Voice of Waynesburg University” Lanny Frattare stepped forward to the lectern, looked out at his 18 students and, after a few introductory remarks, said, “The word for today is ‘formidable.’ It means exciting fear or to deter from approach, a redoubtable undertaking.”
Lanny Frattare had notes on every surface at the Three Rivers Stadium broadcast booth.
Legendary western Pennsylvania high school football coaches at a luncheon hosted by Bill Priatko, former Robert Morris University athletic official, left to right (schools in parentheses), front row: Chuck Klausing (Braddock), Pete Antimarino (Gateway); back row: Jim Render (USC), Joe Mucci (Jeanette and Greensburg), Tom Nola (Clairton and Gateway), George Novak (Woodland Hills)
Lanny offers a “word for today” at the start of his Tuesday and Thursday class lectures on the third floor of Buhl Hall on the bucolic campus of Waynesburg University, a private Christian-based college of 2000 students in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, about 50 minutes south of Pittsburgh. Assistant professor of the university’s communications department, he has a tidy cubicle near the classroom to call his own. He teaches sports broadcasting, and broadcasting and public speaking, and has become “the voice of Waynesburg University.” Announcing the names of departing students at graduation ceremonies over the years, his voice is also easily recognizable in radio commercials touting the virtues of Waynesburg University. He’s also involved with recruiting and advising regarding school matters. Lanny, age 72, is wrapping up his 11th year at Waynesburg University and appears to be at peace with himself and his surroundings. Students nodded, stopped to say hello and shake Cont. on page 18 Fall 2020
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Jim and Lanny
Cont. from page 17
his hand, and address him as “Mr. Frattare” more often than the “Lanny” he has urged them to call him, when he dined on a cheeseburger and Diet Coke at the Bee Hive campus cafeteria. Lanny is familiar to the students and certainly to their parents. His voice and face are most familiar to fans of the Pirates and the Pittsburgh sports scene beginning in 1976. He was “the voice of the Pirates” for 33 years, longer than the legendary Bob “The Gunner” Prince, who held the same role from 1948 to 1975. Lanny felt pressed to retire, though it was a difficult decision. The
Lanny Frattare and his dear friends, Katie and Jim Leyland, at Atria’s Restaurant & Tavern in Mt. Lebanon 18
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Pirates had a losing season for the last 17 seasons he was behind the mic and that, and some personal challenges, robbed him of his enthusiasm to continue. This fall, Lanny will be broadcasting some local area high school football games, and he says he enjoys doing that. He’s got a full schedule. He’s been recharged since arriving at Waynesburg. His students appear willing and respectful and, under those circumstances, teaching can be exhilarating and rewarding. Lanny appears comfortable in this role and setting, though teaching can sometimes be a formidable challenge. “I am an extremely fortunate individual,” said Lanny, who tends to do lots of soul searching. “Since I was 12 years old, I wanted to be a major league baseball announcer and I lived the dream for 33 years. After I stepped away from the Pirates, I was blessed to be given the chance to join the Waynesburg University family. The people here are wonderful. My dad always said, ‘When it’s time to move on, you move on.’ I love doing playby-play announcing, so I was excited when Don Rebel asked me to announce high school sports on the MSA Sports Network. I was proud of my reputation as a well-prepared broadcaster when I was handling Pirates’ play-by-plays. It was important to me that I prepare in the same manner for high school sports as I did for major league baseball.” Previously a longtime USC resident, Lanny currently resides in Hickory, Mount Pleasant Township, along with his significant other, Suzanne Scott, who shares his enthusiasm for sports. Cont. on page 86
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What Really Makes Us Different? Jay Lynch
The Upper St. Clair community has received statewide and national awards, and the Pittsburgh region has received many accolades as one of the best places to live in America and in the world. We have every reason to be proud. But what really sets us apart and makes us different from many other Taddi Hendon and Lauren Wholey mid-size or larger cities are the friendliness and warmth we exude on a daily basis. I grew up at 8 Mitchell Drive in USC’s Washington Terrace neighborhood. At the time (1960s), it was a Wonder Years neighborhood and, rightfully so, still is. My dad died in 1999 and my mom moved to a senior group home in 2012. When she moved out of the house, I renovated it with love and sold it to Taddi Hendon. I stayed in touch with Taddi after the sale.
When Taddi, in turn, sold the house this past spring, she kindly notified me via the following remarkably thoughtful email: Good morning Jay, Just wanted to let you know that I closed on 8 Mitchell yesterday. I sold it to a darling couple from Seattle, Washington. The owner was transferred to Pittsburgh with Amazon. USC’s 8 Mitchell was a wonderful home for us and I’d say my favorite of all homes I’ve owned. Lauren had tremendous success here—USC valedictorian in 2019—and then onto Virginia Tech to pursue a degree in computer science and engineering. I’m in an Air B&B home now until moving to a Mount Washington apartment on Grandview Avenue in June. I took your mother’s metal rooster from the porch for my new balcony. The iron floral hangings your mom loved so much were given to my friend who lives in O’Hara Township. She has them hanging on her back porch. She absolutely loves them! I hope you and your family are doing well! My final photo of 8 Mitchell is attached. Take good care, Taddi In most cities, home sales are cold, business transactions. In USC and the ’burgh, they can be warm. n
USC’s 8 Mitchell Drive
Share your thoughts about this article with Jay at bkefather@yahoo.com. Fall 2020
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Educational Resource Guide
Going Back to School After Coronavirus Haley Roberts, Administrative Coordinator at Extended Day Services
Because of COVID-19, our children have been home for months without much structure to their day. During this time, we have done our best to adapt to staying home, completing school assignments on tablets from the kitchen table, and taking lots of walks to remain active. As difficult as it can be to reacclimate children to a school-year routine after a typical summer break, going back to school this fall will present additional challenges. Here are some useful tips to help your children adjust to school this year in light of coronavirus. 1. Get back to a good sleep schedule. It’s easy to get lax on bedtimes during the summer, but it was especially easy during the stay-athome order when there wasn’t much to do. Start the adjustments to bedtime earlier and make the changes each night marginal. Offer small rewards (stickers, temporary tattoos, etc.) for getting to bed on time. 2. Have a conversation about going to school. Talk about the school-year daily routine and remind your children about getting ready in the morning, seeing friends 20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
and teachers, playing, riding the bus, and anything else central to a typical day for your family. Focus more on what will be the same and less about what might be different because of COVID-19 to reduce anxiety about returning to school. 3. Plan out lunches in advance. If your children prefer to pack a lunch, do some meal prep over the weekend. Pre-bag fruits or chips and make sandwiches in advance so all you must do in the morning is to pull the items out of the fridge and place them in a lunchbox. This strategy helps the morning routine go a little smoother. 4. Create a “launch pad.” A launch pad is a place where all your children’s school items go, including backpacks, tablets, shoes, and sports equipment for after-school practice. It’s easier for your children to stay organized and locate their stuff if there is a designated place for everything. Try putting your launch pad by the front door for even quicker access in the mornings. 5. Discuss emotions. This year, more than usual, you might see behavioral or emotional changes in your children as fall approaches. It might be hard for them to separate from you after this extended period of togetherness due to COVID-19. They may feel anxious or sad as things change again. Fall 2020
Remember to acknowledge their emotions, but reassure them that they can manage this transition and will soon adjust to being back in a school environment. 6. Arrange special parent-child time after school. After school and after work, arrange some uninterrupted one-on-one time with your children to play a game, talk about their day, watch an episode of their favorite TV show, or go for a family walk. For some families, this time might occur during family dinner. 7. Ensure self-care as a parent. The backto-school transition is not only difficult for children, it can be tough on parents, too. If you feel rushed or anxious getting ready in the morning, your children will sense that and feel anxious, too. Do what you have to do to be cool, calm, and collected as we transition into the new school year. 8. Practice new school procedures. Although guidance on how schools will operate has not been fully released as of the writing of this article, there are bound to be some new procedures this fall to keep our children safe and healthy. Whatever those are, practice them at home before school starts so children are less concerned about these changes. n See ad for Extended Day Services on this page.
Educational Resource Guide
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Educational Resource Guide
The Evolution of Classical Ballet Training Steven Piper, Director, Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh The origins of classical ballet can be traced back to Italy during the Renaissance period, and further popularized under the French king Louis XIV. Ballet during those times was performed by nobles, and much different from today’s version. Centuries later, after further expansion into Europe and Russia, classical ballet would make its way to the United States, and thanks to the father of American Ballet, George Balanchine. A native of Russia, George Balanchine trained and graduated from the famed Kirov school in Leningrad. After emigrating to America, Balanchine founded the New York City Ballet, and to this day, his choreography is performed worldwide by every major
professional ballet company. Balanchine also founded the School of American Ballet, the official school of the New York City Ballet, where students are trained in the unique Balanchine style. While his training was rooted in the classic Russian (Vaganova) style, Balanchine modernized ballet with a greater focus on speed and precision, and his ballets reflect that style. In addition to the School of American Ballet, schools such as the Pacific Northwest Ballet School in Seattle and Miami City Ballet School are heavily influenced by the Balanchine style, as are many others. In the U.S., a variety of methods are taught, the most common being the
Trends for the Fall Real Estate Market Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®
When September 22 rolls around this year, the official fall
real estate market gets underway. At that time, where will we be regarding restrictions resulting from COVID-19? With the spring 2020 real estate market rather nonexistent, the summer market caught up at a fast pace. It’s looking like the fall 2020 market will be in full swing and continue this busy trend. Don’t underestimate what is typically a slower market for housing. Be well-prepared for an active fall season! 1. Listing prices. Information suggests that mortgage rates will maintain historical lows this fall. With lower rates, housing prices are usually set a bit higher. This trend was reflected in the summer 2020 market and is expected to continue this fall. 2. Less Inventory. There has been a shortage of homes in our region this summer, and it appears this trend will carry over into the fall market, as well. While the monthly average is six months of inventory for the housing market, we are lucky if we currently have two months’ supply of inventory. 3. Fast-paced fall market. We expect that fall will continue to be a fast-paced, active market, with home ownership on the minds of millennials and others. Upgrading to a larger house or possibly downsizing to an over 55 community are also distinct possibilities for some homeowners. 4. Increased demand for home ownership. Currently, there is increased demand to own a home. The housing industry continues to flourish, and includes new home construction and all home improvements for updating and upgrading your existing home, such as landscaping, new appliances, carpeting, and lighting fixtures, to name a few. Home is where the heart is and where your pocket book is invested. Wouldn’t you agree? 5. Get your home ready for sale. Curb appeal matters. Declutter and purge unnecessary items in your closets, storage areas, and garage. Freshen up the paint in your rooms. Get the carpets cleaned. There are many things you can do before the fall real estate market is upon us. Get started now! Expect it to be a busy season for real estate. n For additional real estate information, check out Lynnsellspittsburgh.com. See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, on page 23. 22
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Vaganova (Russian), in addition to RAD (English) and Cecchetti (Italian). With a number of styles and methods, most American schools offer a mixture of each, with some maintaining a stricter classical foundation and others opting for a more neoclassical or contemporary bent. For most professional companies, the classics such as Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty will always be a staple of their repertoire. But, with the advent of the Balanchine style and other burgeoning contemporary choreographers, dancers nowadays must be versatile in many different styles. That being said, American schools have now gone the route of a more modernized curriculum,
How Much Should You Save for College? Many parents ask themselves how will they afford college costs for children. The numbers are daunting. For children who are toddlers today, a four-year degree at a private university may eventually cost upwards of $500,000, according to some estimates. And, with most parents saving only a fraction of that amount (an average of around $18,000, according to lender Sallie Mae), it may be surprising to hear anyone warn against saving too much to help with college tuition. But think carefully before digging a financial hole with college savings; instead follow these tips. Be consistent. Decide on a manageable monthly amount and set it aside in a tax-advantaged college savings account, like a 529. Contribute consistently; that’s the best savings rule of all. Saving something—anything, really—will add up over time. One guideline that some families use is the 2K rule. Save $2000 for every year of a child’s age ($36,000 by 18) to cover some costs of a four-year public university. Talk about college ROI with your kids. Not all professions have the same earning potential, and not all college degrees are created equal. Whether you save for the cost of the degree in advance or take out loans, if it’s overpriced, it’s financially unwise. A technical degree from a top-flight public university that may require graduate education may have a substantial return-on-investment (ROI), meaning the extra investment in years offers a substantial payback. Together with your student, research the expected earning potential for graduates with similar degrees from similar types of institutions to those your child is considering. Don’t forget about other sources of funds. The truth is, few families pay the full amount for college, particularly if they have a student who has achieved some measure of academic success or if they’re able to qualify for some form of financial aid. As parents figure out how to afford college, know that students may receive some sort of need-based grant, merit scholarship, fellowship, work-study aid, or a combination thereof. The Federal Student Aid office of the U.S. Department of Education and Sallie Mae are good places to start your information hunting. And do a search for college grants in your home state of Pennsylvania, as well. Ultimately, consider urging your future college student to accept responsibility for part of his education, even as a loan, so that he understands and accepts the gravity it deserves. n
This article was provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on page 23.
Educational Resource Guide one which incorporates not only a classical foundation, but contemporary and other forms of dance, as well. At the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, dancers are trained in a progressive style, with an emphasis on purity of technique, fast footwork, and intricate sequencing. Contemporary is part of the advanced curriculum, and since the academy’s inception in 2006, its repertoire has featured many Balanchine ballets, including such masterpiece works as Serenade, Walpurgisnacht Ballet, La Source, and Valse Fantaisie. The academy’s younger dancers have also performed in excerpts from Balanchine’s Harlequinade and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Still, and in order to maintain a foothold on the classical traditions, the Ballet Academy presents The Nutcracker every December and has also performed sections from Coppelia, Swan Lake, and The Sleeping Beauty. As the demands of ballet choreography evolve, so, too, must the technique. A successful program will continue to adapt in order to meet those demands. As dancers, we strive to make the difficult look easy, and the key to doing so lies in a forward-thinking foundation. n See ad for Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh on this page.
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Rally for Justice
Upper St. Clair rally held in the Township’s municipal parking lot
This photo was taken by Linda Dudzinski at the George Floyd memorial site at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis.
A peaceful rally, organized by some former and current Upper St. Clair students, took place in Upper St. Clair’s municipal parking lot on June 6, with nearly 500 people attending the event. Many families, among others, came together to stand in unity and freely express their views against discrimination and racism. With media present to cover the rally, Upper St. Clair police were on hand to participate. Arriving to the George Floyd memorial site in Minneapolis this past July, the mood of the crowd that milled about was somber. No matter where you gathered to pay homage or if you gathered, always show respect and offer kindness to others at every turn in your life. n Fall 2020
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Upper St. Clair School District
Board of School Directors
Barbara L. Bolas President 412-833-9841 2023*
Patrick A. Hewitt Vice President 412-831-0178 2023*
Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2023*
Jennifer L. Bowen 412-660-5846 2021*
www.uscsd.k12.pa.us
@USCSchools
To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, and follow the automated directions.
Administrator
Secretary/Email Address
Extension
Dr. John Rozzo...........................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Superintendent of Schools smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky...................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant/Deputy Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Amy Pfender...............................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant to the Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Lou Angelo ..........................................................langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2272 Director of Operations & Facilities Ray Berrott.................................................................rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2059 Director of Technology Sean Bryson ...............................................................sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2560 Chief of School Police Dr. Judy Bulazo .........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Director of Curriculum and Professional Development mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Scott Burchill ............................................................Dawn Machi ............................................ 2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Carson, Jr............................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Cassandra Doggrell ..................................................TBD........................................................... 2116 Director of Student Support Services Lauren Madia ..............................................................Terri Lott .................................................. 2283 Assistant Director of Student Support Services tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jonn Mansfield ............................................................jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us ..................... 3450 Director of Transportation Tina Vojtko ................................................................tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2215 Communications Specialist Bradley Wilson ..........................................................bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 3318 Director of Strategic Initiatives
School District Central Office Administration Phillip J. Elias 412-257-1198 2023*
Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-0622 2021*
Jennifer A. Schnore 412-833-4141 2021*
Dr. Daphna Gans 412-851-18250 2021*
Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent
Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities
Ray Berrott Director of Technology
Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance
Ray Carson, Jr. Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services
Angela B. Petersen 412-833-4873 2023* The 2020 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.
Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices
The required annual notices to parents of children who reside in the Upper St. Clair School District are available online. Visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information. www.uscsd.k12.pa.us UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Dr. Judy Bulazo Cassandra Doggrell Director of Curriculum and Director of Student Professional Development Support Services
School District Building Administration
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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Amy Pfender Assistant to the Superintendent
Fall 2020
Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives
Dr. Timothy Wagner .............................. High School Principal Dr. Daniel Beck ...................................... High School Assistant Principal Dan Zelenski ........................................... High School Assistant Principal Joseph DeMar ......................................... Fort Couch Middle School Principal Erin Peterson .......................................... Fort Couch Assistant Principal Daniel O’Rourke ..................................... Boyce Middle School Principal Christine Mussomeli .............................. Boyce Middle School Assistant Principal 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 Ranks No. 1 in Region and No. 2 in Pennsylvania For the second year in a row, the Upper St. Clair School District ranked first in the annual rankings of regional school districts published by the Pittsburgh Business Times. Released this past May, the 2020 Guide to Southwestern Pennsylvania Schools analyzes school performance data for 102 school districts throughout the seven-county region. The rankings are based on PSSA and Keystone Exam scores, using three years of data with the current year given most weight. In addition to its top spot in the regional rankings, Upper St. Clair moved up to second among Pennsylvania’s 500 school districts. Upper St. Clair was tenth in 2017, fifth in 2018, and third in 2019. The top ranked district in Pennsylvania is UnionvilleChadds Ford School District, located in Chester County. “Upper St. Clair has a long tradition of excellence,” said Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools. “This tradition is the result
of a community that values and supports its public school district at every level. The success of the USC School District is a direct reflection of the commitment of our school board, administrators, teachers, staff and, especially, our students and their families.” The Pittsburgh Business Times released its first school rankings in 2005. Upper St. Clair debuted at number two in the region before spending eight consecutive years, 2006–2013, in the number one spot. Then from 2014 to 2018, USC ranked within the top five each year before regaining the top spot in 2019. In addition to ranking first in the 2019 Guide to Western Pennsylvania Schools, which is based on PSSA and Keystone Exam data, Upper St. Clair High School ranked first in the region in 2019 SAT scores. n
USCHS Named Among the 2020 Best High Schools
Upper St. Clair High School
Upper St. Clair High School ranks among the top three percent of high schools in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. The newspaper released its list of 2020 Best High Schools this past April. Ranked 15th in Pennsylvania, Upper St. Clair is the third highest-ranking high school in Allegheny County. Nationally, Upper St. Clair ranks 709th out of more than 17,700 public high schools, which is in the top four percent.. “Upper St. Clair High School’s success in rankings is attributable to a community that values and supports education,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal. “Our residents expect high quality education. Our schools deliver on this expectation thanks to a variety of factors, paramount among them are a school board policy that describes continuous progress, students who arrive at school ready to learn, and staff who are highly skilled at supporting student growth and achievement.” While proud of the recognition from the Best High Schools rankings, the school credits its tradition of success to offering challenging academics, coupled with robust arts, athletics, and activities programs. “Upper St. Clair High School is committed to serving students’ needs beyond reading, writing, and arithmetic,” said Dr. Wagner. “Comprehensive and successful athletics, arts, and activity programs each create pathways for students to pursue areas of interest beyond core academics. When this studentcentered learning environment is coupled with a District vision for staff to serve the needs of the whole child, it is clear that a ranking alone means little when compared with the important work of educating and caring for children.” According to the U.S. News & World Report’s website, “Rankings include data on more than 24,000 public high schools in 50
states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.” “The Best High Schools rankings provide the most comprehensive, data-based information on nearly every public high school in the country,” said Anita Narayan, managing editor of education at U.S. News. “Families can use this information to see how their local schools compare on graduation rates and state assessments, as well as academic performance by students who are traditionally underserved—those who are black, Hispanic, or from low-income households.” The methodology takes a holistic approach to evaluating schools, focusing on six factors: college readiness, reading and math proficiency, reading and math performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rates. College readiness measures participation and performance on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams. By sharing this information, officials at U.S. News & World Report hope that parents across the country will be armed with information to help them make better-informed decisions about their child’s education. “The Best High Schools rankings identify the country’s topperforming public high schools,” said Robert Morse, chief data strategist for U.S. News & World Report. “The goal is to provide a clear, unbiased picture of how well public schools serve all of their students—from the highest to lowest achieving—in preparing them to demonstrate proficiency in basic skills, as well as readiness for college-level work.” n Fall 2020
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Student Council Sponsor Named Regional Advisor of the Year
Upper St. Clair High School student council sponsor Brooke Tarcson was named Pennsylvania Association of Student Council’s (PASC) Region B High School Advisor of the Year. When asked “What single word comes to mind when you think of your advisor?” student council members responded with the word “vibrant!” “Mrs. Tarcson is remarkably enthusiastic about supporting council, and she’s always eager to help us in any way possible,” said Constantine Tripodes, rising senior and student council president for 2020–21. “Her office door is always open to students.” Under Brooke’s direction, Brooke Tarcson student council oversees the school’s more than 70 clubs, as well as plans school events, including Homecoming and Sadie Hawkins dances, Rush (activities fair), and USC Community Day. Brooke also serves as the high school’s activities coordinator, overseeing many of its special events, including senior prom, graduation, awards night, and U-THON. She works alongside Danny Holzer, activities director and senior class sponsor. “While her designated job title is ‘activities coordinator’ she regularly goes well beyond the call of duty, taking on additional roles and assignments to ensure that our students have an outstanding high school experience,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal. “She is a trusted confidant, ally, and advocate for all students, and she consistently demonstrates leadership for improving our school’s culture.” The school’s administrators credit Brooke with identifying opportunities for students to align their efforts with council’s mission of “Uniting voice; serving the community; committing to progress.” She has partnered with students in supporting their vision for several student-led initiatives. “She has been student council’s advisor for four years. During that time, she’s helped student council members grow as a team, as leaders, and as people,” said Sarah Christensen, rising junior and student council member. A resident of Upper St. Clair Township, Brooke and her husband, John, have four college- and high school-aged daughters. A parent volunteer for 13 years, she held various leadership roles within the Streams Elementary PTO and the USC Parent Teacher Council. Brooke was hired as the high school’s activities coordinator in July 2016. “In addition to being our advisor, Mrs. Tarcson is a role-model for all students. She shows us how hard work pays off and helps us see things from a positive perspective,” said Joe Markovitz, rising senior and senior class treasurer. The mission of PASC is to engage and recognize student leaders and advisors in leadership training, networking, community service, school improvement, personal development opportunities, and civic engagement in the 21st century. PASC is divided into ten geographical regions. Region B represents Allegheny, Washington, and Greene counties. As the Regional B High School Advisor of the Year, Brook qualifies as a nominee for statewide recognition. The PASC High School Advisor of the Year will be announced at the organization’s state conference, currently scheduled for October 2020. n 28
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USCHS Clubs and Activities 2020–2021 Advanced Computational Society
MG20 Club
Art Club*
Multicultural Club*
Badminton Club Best Buddies*
Montage* Newspaper (St. Clairon)*
Black Student Union
Operation Smile
Bracelets with a Benefit
Pickleball Club
C2CF (Community Foundation of USC)
Power.ai
Cereal Club Chess Club Chinese Club Cycling Club Environmental Club Equestrian Club Every Child FBLA* Fencing French Club Freshmen Baseball Future Med + STEM Club Gay-Straight Alliance German Club Girls Reaching Out Worldwide Girls United Globally Greek Club HOSA Interact
The Messengers Research Club Rifle Team* Robotics* RPG Club Ski Club Spanish Club* Spark Girls Into STEM Speech and Debate* Stage Crew* Student Council* Student Musicians Students Demand Action Super Smash Bros Table Tennis Club Thai Club Thespians* Tri M* USC Book Club USC eSports
Japanese Club
USC Ultimate Frisbee (male and female)
Kids Helping Kids
World Affairs Club*
Latin Club*
Yearbook (Clairvoyant)*
Law Club*
Young Democrats
Library Media Aides
Young Life
Make-A-Wish®
Young Republicans of USC
Makeup Crew* Math League
* Indicates school-sponsored clubs; all other clubs are student driven. Visit https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/site/ Default.aspx?PageID=12871 for the most up-to-date listing of clubs and activities and contact information.
Athletic Registration—Healthy Roster
Beginning with the upcoming 2020–21 school year, the Upper St. Clair School District will be using Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Sports Medicine for all athletic training needs. One of the features AHN brings to USC is Healthy Roster. Healthy Roster is a free mobile website program connecting parents and coaches from Upper St. Clair with their licensed athletic trainer to improve communication and care for student-athletes. The program is HIPPA compliant, meaning your child’s information is secure and available only to individuals you choose. Some of the changes include: • The USC Athletic Department will be using this online tool to register student-athletes this school year, and no longer using Family ID. • Registration fees will not be collected until after tryouts. Student-athletes will be required to pay the appropriate fee (see below) once they have made the team. More information on the payment procedure will be forthcoming. To create a new account and get started using Healthy Roster, download Healthy Roster from the App Store (iPhone users) or Google Play (Android users) and enter the following code: PANTHERS.
2020–21 USCHS Athletic Fees • Maximum yearly registration fee for single student multi-sport: $175 • Maximum yearly registration fee per family: $275 • All monies collected help to support USC School District’s athletic programs. • If registration fees present a financial hardship and/or would prohibit your child’s participation, contact Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, at jrozzo@uscsd.k12.pa.us for financial assistance consideration. n
Connecting Athletes, Parents & Coaches to Licensed Athletic Trainers Healthy Roster is a FREE mobile app/website program connecting athletes, parents and coaches from Upper St. Clair High School with Licensed Athletic Trainers from Allegheny Health Network Sports Medicine.
When dealing with a sports injury, help is one tap away!
Tier One Sports: $100 • Baseball • Basketball • Football • Soccer • Track & Field, spring
Tier Two Sports: $75 • Cross Country • Lacrosse • Softball • Swimming/Diving • Volleyball • Wrestling
Tier Three Sports: $50 • Field Hockey • Golf • Rifle • Indoor Track & Field, winter • Tennis
To get started using Healthy Roster, download Healthy Roster from the App Store (iPhone Users) or Google Play (Android Users) and enter this code when creating a new account.
PANTHERS
Here’s How it Works If you become aware of an injury, you can connect directly with an Athletic Trainer so they can help you understand the best course of action - simply message your provider in the Healthy Roster App to get started.
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Upper St. Clair School District 2020–2021 Calendar Aug 24: First Day of School for Students Sep 7: No School–Labor Day Oct 23: Half Day (Early Dismissal for Students) Nov 2-3: No School–Teacher In-service Nov 9: No School–Teacher In-service Nov 25–27: No School–Thanksgiving Recess Dec 24–Jan 1: No School–Winter Recess Jan 18: No School–Teacher In-service Feb 12: No School–Teacher In-service Feb 15: No School–Teacher In-service (Snow Make-Up Day) Mar 5: Half Day (Early Dismissal for Students) Mar 26: No School–Teacher In-service Mar 29–Apr 2: No School (Spring Recess) Apr 5: No School–Teacher In-service (Snow Make-Up Day) May 31: No School–Memorial Day Jun 3: High School Commencement Jun 9: Last Day of School for Students (Pending Snow Make-Up Days) Jun 10: Teacher In-service (Snow Make-Up Day) Jun 21: Kennywood Day (Times for early dismissal in the calendar above are school specific.)
Due to COVID-19, USC School District officials will be continually reviewing the 2020–21 calendar to determine if changes are necessary. Visit the District's website for the most up-to-date information.
District Calendar 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 an option to filter by specific school building.
USC eAlerts Upper St. Clair School District regularly sends news and information via email. Weekly recap emails with the latest news, upcoming events, links to news articles, and more are sent to subscribers. Subscribe to eAlerts on the District’s website (www.uscsd.k12.pa.us) under Quick Links, shown on the left-hand side. 30
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High School Program Earns National Honor Upper St. Clair High School’s therapeutic emotional support program was recently named a first-place award winner in the 25th annual Magna Awards, sponsored by the National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) flagship magazine, American School Board Journal. This is the third year that the Magna Awards have focused on recognizing school districts and their leaders for their efforts to bring educational equity to their students. “Focusing on equity requires school leaders to think differently and creatively,” said Thomas J. Gentzel, NSBA executive director and CEO. “The 2020 Magna Award-winning districts showcase the amazing and innovative work going on in public schools to ensure students are supported and provided with the tools and opportunities needed to succeed.” Known simply as the 409 Program—named after its USCHS room location—the program’s goal is to provide students with significant mental health needs the opportunity to fully participate in their high school. “Meeting individual children’s needs from both a developmental and programmatic perspective is something about which the staff and students associated with the program should be very proud,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal. “The 409 Program is another way that the high school continues to fulfill its mission on behalf of our residents.” Students receive comprehensive learning supports, intensive therapeutic/emotional supports, behavior management, social skills training, individualized coursework, and community-based service-learning opportunities. “409 is more than a program. It’s a place that means something different to each student and family given the uniqueness of the program,” said Amy Pfender, assistant to the superintendent. “The most rewarding part is seeing the individual successes of students and hearing about their accomplishments after high school.” The 409 Program was created 15 years ago in response to parental concern regarding children’s ability to attend high school if they exhibited emotional and behavioral issues that impacted their learning. “At that time, an appropriate program did not exist at USC. Therefore, students with significant mental health issues attended specialized schools outside USC School District,” said Amy. “Going outside the District left many of those students feeling ostracized and, in some cases, it negatively impacted their lives within the community.” The 409 Program serves approximately 25 students, with a team that includes a highly-trained emotional support teacher, learning support teacher, paraprofessional, social worker, and behavior specialist, as well as outside therapists and psychiatrists. “Within the 409 classroom, staff members create a therapeutic environment, where students can share their struggles and seek help from adults and their peers,” said Amy. “The classroom has become a sanctuary for students. Within this supportive community, students can begin to develop resiliency and experience more success in high school.” Participating students qualify for special education services and exhibit a variety of mental health diagnoses, including autism, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and/or oppositional defiant disorder. “The relationships that are formed between the adults and students are clearly the most rewarding aspect of the program,”
said Dr. Dan Beck, assistant principal. “We believe that students selected the winners who have these positive relationships with adults and with each from more than 100 other are more likely to have a positive and engaging high school submissions. experience.” The 409 Program seeks to remove the barriers to This year’s three achievement in five key ways: grand prize winners and • Uncovers the gifts of each student despite his or her chal- 15 first place winners lenges, providing opportunities to grow. were selected from three • Collaborates with parents and outside providers. enrollment categories: • Addresses the therapeutic needs of students. under 5000 students, • Provides the necessar y academic supports and 5000 to 20,000 stuaccommodations. dents, and over 20,000 • Enhances social skills development through community- students. based service learning. This marks the District’s third Magna Award recognition from “409 is a community. One of the most important aspects of the NSBA. In 2013, the District was named a first-place winner a community is feeling a sense of belonging, connectedness, or for its Student Leadership Academy, which helps students undermembership, and that’s what takes place in this classroom,” said stand how they can change the world through their leadership. Dr. Beck. “We believe that students who are connected to the In 2017, SHOP@USC was selected as one of three national grand 409 community are less likely to engage in problematic behav- prize winners. SHOP@USC (Showing How Opportunity Pays @ iors. Further, we also believe that these students will do better Upper St. Clair) is a fully inclusive student-run business housed academically, grow socially, and adapt emotionally.” within the high school’s Innovation Hub. Students in the Life Students receive individual and group therapeutic sessions to Skills program and their regular education partners design and address their diagnoses and presenting problems. When students manufacture USC spirit-wear products, while learning how to experience behavioral challenges within their general education develop a business plan that includes all related aspects, such as classes, the emotional support teacher and licensed social worker pricing, marketing, sales, and inventory of products. n collaborate with teachers to create solutions. Academic and learning needs also are addressed. Students are scheduled into any high 2020 Magna Award Grand Prize school course that meets their needs. Some students participate in honors and Advanced Winners Placement classes, while others enroll in acaUnder 5000 students: Fremont County School District #6, Pavillion, demic classes or vocational-technical experiences. Wyoming Academic supports are delivered based on each 5000 to 20,000 students: Liberty Public Schools, Liberty, Missouri student’s needs. Students have access to the 409 Over 20,000 students: Moreno Valley Unified School District, Moreno classroom throughout the day and can receive Valley, California academic instruction as needed to support their involvement in general education classes. 2020 Magna Award First Place “The 409 Program has been a life-changing Winners (alpha order) program for students and their families,” said Dr. Under 5000 students: Wagner. “Over the past 15 years, 85 students have Bergenfield Public Schools, Bergenfield, New Jersey graduated from USCHS after participating in the CodeRVA Regional High School, Richmond, Virginia program, 41 of whom completed postsecondary Manassas Park City Schools, Manassas, Virginia education.” Shawnee Public Schools, Shawnee, Oklahoma The 409 Program also provides unique opporUpper St. Clair School District, Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania tunities for students to enhance their social skills development through community-based service5000 to 20,000 students: learning trips. “Each month, the 409 students Cajon Valley Union School District, El Cajon, California and adults participate in a day-long service trip Meriden Public Schools, Meriden, Connecticut to local organizations, including Kane Hospital, Roseville Area Schools, Roseville, Minnesota Jubilee Soup Kitchen, World Vision, and Toys San Luis Coastal Unified School District, San Luis Obispo, California for Tots,” said Dr. Wagner. “Once again, students Vail Unified School District Vail, Arizona with heightened challenges are placed in positions where they are recognized and appreciated.” Over 20,000 students: The Magna Awards, supported by Sodexo, a Compton Unified School District, Compton, California leader in delivering sustainable, integrated faGuilford County Schools, Greensboro, North Carolina cilities management and food service operations, Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District, Bedford, Texas honor school districts across the country for proMontgomery County Public Schools, Rockville, Maryland grams that break down barriers for underserved Virginia Beach City Public Schools, Virginia Beach, Virginia students. An independent panel of school board members, administrators, and other educators
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All USC Schools Designated “No Place for Hate” Each of Upper St. Clair’s six schools has earned the designation as a “No Place for Hate” school from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Banners will be presented and displayed within each school. “No Place for Hate is a national student-led program that creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students,” said Alana Bandos, ADL education director. “Thank you for your hard work and efforts to combat hate and promote inclusion this year in your school. I have been pleasantly Baker students wear orange for Unity Day. overwhelmed by your students’ creativity and the dedication of to combat bias and bullying; and provide your staff. anti-bias training to staff. Implemented within the District begin“The No Place for Hate program as a ning in the fall of 2019, No Place for Hate whole has encouraged students to be more helps incorporate anti-bias and bullying open, understanding, and empathetic,” prevention resources into the District’s said Dan O’Rourke, Boyce principal. “Our existing programs in order to have one students really embraced the program, and consistent message of inclusivity. “We are it was so encouraging to see their creative proud to announce that all six Upper St. ideas and genuine kindness to foster a Clair schools have met all criteria and have more inclusive environment.” been designated with the No Place for Hate A key component of the initiative is commendation,” said Lauren Madia, assis- the important role that students play in tant director of student support services. the planning and implementation of pro“Not only have all schools achieved this grams. “It was powerful to have students designation, but the work of the schools come to me with ideas for programming, has been featured as an example of model share paintings they made, pictures they No Place for Hate programming by the designed, or posters that had No Place Anti-Defamation League.” for Hate as a theme,” said Dan. “In fact, To be named a No Place for Hate we used one of our student’s designs school, schools must establish a student- to make T-shirts for Random Acts of led committee of teachers, students, and Kindness Week.” parents; create an opportunity for students At the high school, the initiative served to take the No Place for Hate pledge; de- as a unifying cause for several student sign and implement at least three programs clubs and groups with similar goals of to bring students together in discussion inclusivity, empathy, and acceptance. “An important outcome of the program has been its impact on school unity. Each of our events was coordinated by No Place for Hate student committee members, who then brought together classmates from various groups, including the Black Student Union, the Multicultural Club, and student council,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal. “While many groups are working toward common or similar ends each year, the nature of No Place for Hate’s school-wide programs No Place for Hate poster unites us all in real and important ways.” 32
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The positive impacts of No Place for Hate programs and messages were evident throughout the District’s elementary schools, as well. “I am most proud of the way this message resonated with our students at Streams, as evidenced by their ‘Stomp Out Hate’ works of art, their spontaneous positive messages of inclusivity that began to appear around our hallways, and their efforts to be sensitive to and gain understanding of various cultures during classroom discussions,” said Dr. Claire Miller, Streams Elementary principal. “I hope that they will retain these lessons and transfer this productive thinking into all aspects of their lives beyond the school walls.” Ultimately, the success of the program rests with each individual school and its commitment from those involved. “The No Place for Hate program provides the structure and resources necessary for schools [like ours] to plan and implement meaningful and impactful programming,” said Dan Zelenski, high school assistant principal. “The success of the program truly depends on the collaboration and buy-in from all members of the school community. Having a 30-member No Place for Hate committee, representing multiple perspectives and walks of life, allows our members to grow and learn from each other.” To maintain the No Place for Hate designation, schools must continue to work with its students and school community to foster and promote a welcoming, inclusive environment for all. n
Boyce and Fort Couch Earn Special “No Place for Hate” Awards
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Selling your home? Boyce and Fort Couch Middle Schools were each awarded Equity Awards during the Anti-Defamation League’s 2019–20 Spread the Light Event this past May. The event, which honored 33 schools throughout Ohio and western Pennsylvania that earned the No Place for Hate designation and included all six Upper St. Clair schools, further awarded additional merits to Boyce and Fort Couch. “Although each of the 33 schools in our region worked hard to make their schools No Place for Hate, four schools stood apart for their creativity, student leadership, and their commitment to equity and challenging bias,” said Yelena Boxer, regional board chair of the Anti-Defamation League. Fort Couch was recognized for its “commitment to addressing bias during a crisis through the implementation of the Coronavirus and Scapegoating No Place for Hate activity on the very last day of in-person class to help challenge the anti-Asian bias that has increased across the country. Boyce earned its award for implementing the Butterfly Project No Place for Hate activity that “engaged students in creating a living art memorial dedicated to the 1.5 million child victims of the Holocaust. Their butterfly garden will promote beauty and understanding of differences.” Boyce and Fort Couch will receive a set of books specific to their student population’s age group for their school libraries, which captures the beauty of celebrating differences and standing up to bullying and bias. n
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Senior Week 2020 Upper St. Clair High School honored graduating seniors from the Class of 2020 throughout its senior week, which ran June 1–4. All week long, seniors and their families were encouraged to show their Upper St. Clair pride by decorating their front doors, mailboxes, and vehicles. For the first time ever, USCHS seniors were permitted to decorate their graduation caps. “The final semester of senior year is such a special time for students. In light of the surrounding circumstances, we permitted cap decoration and wanted our seniors to know how much we care about and appreciate them,” said Brooke Tarcson, the school’s activities coordinator. “While this doesn’t make up for missing the final weeks of school in person, we want them to know that the whole USC community is cheering them on.” Senior week festivities kicked off with a Panther Pass parade. The roadways through the high school campus were lined with personalized yard signs for all 337 seniors. Seniors were encouraged to decorate their cars and drive through the parade route. Family members and school staff stood along the route (behind the senior signs or across the roadway) to wave and cheer. Cap and gown distribution took place in the high school’s parking lot near the school’s theater entrance. Seniors returned their Chromebooks, textbooks, and library books and received their caps and gowns, a yard sign, and a gift bag filled with several surprises. The school’s principals, activities staff, and others were on hand to greet students. “We intended for this to be a special day where our seniors stopped at each station, saw familiar USCHS faces, and received some fun swag for being a special member of the Class of 2020,” said Brooke. A virtual celebration was held on June 4, the original date for the Class of 2020’s commencement ceremony. Seniors were urged to dress in their caps and gowns, watch the brief celebratory message from Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal, and Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, and then step outside to “make some noise.” n The photos shown here are of the Panther Pass parade. To watch the virtual celebration honoring the Class of 2020, visit uscsd.org/celebrate2020.
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USCHS Academic Achievers 2019–2020 Congratulations to our high school’s academic achievers for the 2019–2020 school year. Va l e d i c t o r i a n s : C a r l y Abraham, Tyler Berger, Julia Brubach, Claire Chen, Jason Choi, Samuel Dvorin, Eri Hayakawa, Jordan Holleran, Vivian Li, Kathleen McCurrie, Emma Mertz, Benjamin Nelson, Daniel O’Brien, Sara Steve, Jamison Stout, Ellie Tetrick, Emmeline Wetzel, Alexandra Wunderlich.
Superintendent Academic Achievement Award: Carly Abraham, Tyler Berger, Julia Brubach, Claire Chen, Jason Choi, Samuel Dvorin, Ella Gans, Eri Hayakawa, Jordan Holleran, Kiana Izadbakhsh, Allison Kappert, Vivian Li, Kathleen McCurrie, Emma Mertz, Benjamin Nelson, Daniel O’Brien, Paige Roeschenthaler, Cal Sollie, Sara Steve, Jamison Stout, Ellie Tetrick, Alexis Wehrle, Emmeline Wetzel, Alexandra Wunderlich. IB Diploma Candidates: Vivek Babu, Haley Beardsley, Sunny Chai, Sam Dvorin, Ahiri Ghosh, Yash Jajoo, Olivia John, Abdullah
Basir Khan, Shanthi Krishnaswamy, Chanel Menard, Anusha Neupane, Ian Rankin, Anika Sinha, Gabriella Spina, Jamison Stout, Lauren Teresi, Nicola van Der Wal. To read the 2020 high school graduation speeches by USC's superintendent, school board president, and selected graduating students that were given virtually, visit UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY's website at www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home under the "Past Issues" subhead. n
2020 USC High School Student Awards
Nearly 100 USCHS students were recognized with honors, awards, and scholarships during the school’s annual Awards Night. Due to the extended school closure caused by COVID-19, the event was held virtually in May. “I’m so proud of our student awardees and all that they’ve accomplished,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal. “So much effort and energy went into receiving these awards. Some were being thought about and bestowed upon you and you didn’t even realize it. Others of you took a lot of time to apply and were competitive and successful applicants from among many of your peers. For all of these reasons, I couldn’t be more excited for you to be celebrating this evening.” In addition to celebrating the achievements of students, Dr. Wagner shared his appreciation for the many community partners that support the school’s students year after year. “What’s also notable is how our community partners come together to offer these recognitions each year. To live in a community that pauses to celebrate student achievement in academics, arts, and athletics is itself something worthy of recognition,” said Dr. Wagner. “The entire faculty and staff of the high school extends our best wishes to these students and their families, now and in the future.” Shown in alphabetical order of award, the following students were recognized:
Air Force ROTC: Paige Stevenson BASH (Black Association of the South Hills): Rebekah Chikuni Carson Scholar: Morgan Meddings DAR Good Citizen Award: Kathleen McCurrie Ellie Levine Memorial Award: Eri Hayakawa John Small Spirit of Community Award: Juliana Tarcson Joseph F. Argiro Science Award: Carly Abraham Joseph L. Moscov Memorial Award: Alex Gillespie, Lucas Gillespie, Trinity Stillwell Outstanding Senior Athletes: Emily O’Malley, R.J. White Patrick O’Brien Memorial Scholarship: Haley Beardsley Paul Harris Award–USC-Bethel Park Evening Rotary Club: Alexander Happ Paul Wildenhain Memorial Scholarship: Alexander Shaw Perfect Attendance: Jason Choi, Mark Krolczyk, Claire Chen, Demitra Kucherawy, Kathleen McCurrie, Landon Rauch Pride of the Panthers Award: Aidan Gordley SAGE Scholarship: Sanjita Sigdel Service Above Self USC–Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary: Gabriella Spina
Service Above Self USC–Bethel Park Evening Rotary Club: Logan Tobias Sharon Popp Memorial Award: Jacqueline Kobeski South Hills Area School Districts Association (SHASDA): Gabrielle McNemar, Trinity Stillwell Society of Women Engineers Awards: Aditri Thakur, sophomore; Claudia Ng, junior; Paige Stevenson, senior Student of the Year Awards: Jocelyn Rullo, freshman; RJ Shontz, sophomore; Brendan Crowley, junior; Jacob Conte, senior T.J. White Scholarship: Sara Steve U.S. Marine Corp Awards Distinguished Male and Female Athlete: Herb Gordon, Sara Steve Scholastic Excellence: Jamison Stout Semper Fildelis Award for Musical Excellence: Harrison Burgess USC Education Association Scholarship: Amanda Weinheimer USC ESPA/PSEA Transportation Scholarship: Allison Neas, Harrison Burgesss USCHS Counseling Humanitarian Award: A i d a n G o r d l e y, C a l S o l l i e , E l l i e Fall 2020
Tetrick, Gavin Genter, Jamison Stout, Karlie Daschbach, Katherine Hobart, Kelsey Reimer, Lydia McGlinn, Paige Roeschenthaler William A. Pope Scholarship: Jacob Manko University Book Awards Brandeis University: Antara Cleetus Brown University: Reshma Gudla Chatham University, Rachel Carson Healthy Planet: Gabby Brubach George Washington University: Andrew Levy Harvard University: Sophia Shi Johns Hopkins University: Ryan Sarkett Princeton University: Christian Chiu Rensselaer Medal: Harrison Chui RIT Computing Medal and Scholarship Award: Alex Carlson, Sophia Shi RIT Innovation and Creativity Award: Ben Bacdayan, Kara Lagoy Saint Michael’s College: Atharva Barve Tulane University: Samantha Seewald University of Pennsylvania: Bryce Keating University of Virginia, Jefferson: Claudia Ng William and Mary Leadership Award: Constantine Tripodes Yale University: Gabriella Brubach n UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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USC Music Program Earns National Recognition For the fifth consecutive year, Upper St. Clair School District was named among the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) by the NAMM Foundation. USC is one of only 18 school districts in Allegheny County, 115 in Pennsylvania, and 754 from across the country to earn this distinction in 2020. “We are extremely proud of this national recognition of our District’s music program,” said Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools. In its 21st year, the BCME designation is awarded to school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. In addition to boosting academic achievement, studies have also indicated that music education lays the foundation for individual excellence in group settings, creative problem solving, and flexibility in work situations, as well as learning how to give and receive constructive criticism to excel. “Our USC music program provides a comprehensive music education, with diverse musical opportunities for all students,” said Dr. John Seybert, performing arts curriculum leader. “The USC music program’s commitment to excellence is evident from our elementary programs to our middle and high school concerts and productions. Our students and ensembles also perform throughout the country in nationally-recognized festivals,” he said. According to the NAMM Foundation,
Young musicians in concert
this award recognizes that Upper St. Clair School District is leading the way with learning opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act. ESSA recommends music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children. To qualify for the designation, Upper St. Clair officials answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Among the strengths of the District’s music program is having a music faculty with diverse experiences in music and education. “Our faculty are actively involved in advancing music education in our community,” said Dr. Seybert. “In addition to enhancing our District programs, they direct university, professional, and community ensembles; research and teach courses for pre-service and current
educators, and consult with other district music programs; as well as perform with internationally-renowned ensembles.” Other Allegheny County school districts named 2020 Best Communities for Music Education include Avonworth, Baldwin-Whitehall, Bethel Park, Chartiers Valley, Clairton City, East Allegheny, Fox Chapel, Gateway, Moon Area, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny, North Hills, Plum Borough, Riverview, Shaler Area, West Allegheny, and Woodland Hills school districts. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its approximately 10,400 members around the world. The foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs. n
The Pride of Upper St. Clair marching band
USCHS choral students 36
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For more information about the NAMM Foundation, visit www.nammfoundation.org.
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The Upper St. Clair High School chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) inducted 172 new members during its annual induction ceremony held virtually this past June. Inductees for 2020 include Olivia Amatangelo, Benjamin Bacdayan, Luke Banbury, Sujay Banerjee, Casey Barker, Atharva Barve, Alexander Belback, Amy Bellas, Patrick Benedict, Lily Bernard, Christopher Bishop, Carson Bogan, Gabriella Brubach, Joshua Brufsky, Jackson Buchanan, Marina Bulazo, Andrea Burgos Mercado, Richard Carlson, Lena Carolla, Alison Caruso, Lauren Caslin, Annika Chaves, Anish Chigurupati, Christian Chiu, Harrison Chui, Antara Cleetus, Brandon Coe, Elijah Cohen, Taylor Connors, Christina Conte, Andrew Conwell, Franco D’Amico, Ethan Dahlem, Karsen Damon, Zoe Dawso, Alison Debski, Julia Dellicarri, Mia Depolo, Raam Diora, William Engel, Zachary Fairfull, Taylor Finkelstein, Julianna Fiori, Madison Fisher, Richard Fultineer, Rebecca Gehring, Luke Gensler, Melanie Geronian, Declan Gessel, Olivia Gianatasio, Daniela Gibbons, Malorie Glancy,
Eliza Glunt, Madison Goldberg, Emerick Gross, Reshma Gudla, Eileen Guo, David Halasz, Alexandra Hall, Steven Halpner, Alexander Happ, Peter Hassett, Sara Hess, Carlie Hewitt, Claire Hoffman, Taylor Hutter, Evan Jakovac, Clare Joyce, Patrick Joyce, Noah Karow, Bryce Keating, Madeleine Kent, Caroline Knizner, Jordan Kweder, Kara Lagoy, Brianna Lang, Madeleine Laporte, Andrew Levy, Katherine Li, Brianna Lin, Sydney Lisak, Naiya Livingston, Stephanie Lu, Jacob Lucas, Georgia Madson, Richa Mahajan, Lucas Manalo, Natalie Manalo, Maxwell Mandler, Owen Mann, Deirdre Mannix, Joseph Markovitz, Joshua Matheny, David McClintock, Shay McDowell, Martha McElligott, Julia McKenney, Kate McQuillan, Anna McShane, Morgan Meddings, Michael Menard, Fatima Mendez Fuentes, Natalie Meyer, Madison Milone, John Mologne, Aedan Moss, Max Murtough, Jack Myers, Tucker Neal, Claudia Ng, Madeline Nolen, Olivia Noto, Brett Nyman, Kelsey O’Leary, Nicholas Pacella, Manjiri Palayekar, Parth Patel, Joseph Phillips, Alexandra Prunzik, Tara Pulit, Haley Qin, Katelin Radonovich, Chelsey Ragaller, Vanessa Rainier, Kyle Ralyea, Brooke Reitz, Zachary Reynolds, Daniel Rieker, Ellie Rising, Emily Ritter, Alyssa Robert, Valentina Rosales Mejia, Abigail Rutkowski, Alyssa Saghy, Caroline Sandford, Ryan Sarkett, Triston Schaffer, Sophia Schlichting, Kenza Fall 2020
Scott, Amber Seery, Samantha Seewald, Ishaan Shah, Shilp Shah, Afifa Shaikh, Sophia Shi, Emma Skeel, Elle Snyder, Abelardo Sobarzo, Daniel Spatz, Shayna Spivak, Sarah Strain, John Sukernek, Tyler Super, Grace Suter, Liam Szajnecki, Nicholas Tanner, Constantine Tripodes, Paige Tudi, Jay Vakil, Eric Wang, Michaela Widmer, Morgan Wieczenski, Caroline Wright, Shamita Yanamadala, Elizabeth Young, Justin Yu, Shannon Yurcich, Sarah Zadrozny, Jason Zhang, Veronica Zhang, Callie Zollars, and Henry Zou. The NHS is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The USC chapter selects members in the second semester of the students’ junior year, so that the members can provide services to the school during the members’ senior year. Juniors who have attained an unweighted grade point average of 3.5 or above have satisfied the requirement for scholarship and have the opportunity to apply for membership in NHS. The process then requires candidates to articulate how they meet the criteria of leadership, service, and character. Congratulations to NHS’s newest members! n UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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National Math Challenge A team of USCHS students— Christian Chiu, Harrison Chui, Jack Myers, and Sophia Shi—earned honorable mention recognition in the 2020 MathWorks Math Modeling (M3) Challenge and will receive a $1000 scholarship to be split equally. “Of the 760 papers submitted in this year’s M3 Challenge, your team’s solution was selected to receive one of 22 honorable mention awards. You should be very proud of this distinction, especially given the rigorous and intense scrutiny that each paper endured,” said Adrianne Ali, a representative from the M3 Challenge. “Only four percent of the submitted papers were selected for recognition.” Now in its 15th year, the 2020 M3 Challenge saw students spend 14 consecutive hours within three days this past spring, using mathematical modeling tools to solve a real-world problem by collecting data and creating models, and
Christian Chiu
Harrison Chui
then submitting their solutions online. This year’s problem asked teams to create a model to predict what percentage of semi-trucks will be electric in the next few years and decades, determine the number and locations of charging stations along major U.S. trucking routes that are needed for an all-electric trucking industry, and to prioritize which routes should first be developed with electric charging infrastructure. More than 3500 students—working in 760
Jack Myers
Sophia Shi
teams—participated in the challenge. USCHS was one of 50 teams from Pennsylvania that competed and one of only two Pennsylvania schools to earn recognition this year. “They really did impressive work, and I am extremely proud of them!” said Kevin Coffman, USCHS math teacher. M3 Challenge is a program of Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) designed to motivate students to study and pursue careers in science, math, and computing. n
STEM Design Challenge A team of four students from Fort Couch placed first in the 6–8 grade division at the regional STEM Design Challenge at Duquesne University this past March. Ryan Buonomo, Max Biedrzycki, Ben Seewald, and Ryan Popp qualified to compete at the state-level competition, which was scheduled for late March in Harrisburg but was canceled due to COVID-19. Sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific, the STEM Design Challenge tasks teams of students in grades four through eight
Regional STEM Design Challenge team winners, left to right: Ryan Popp, Ryan Buonomo, Ben Seewald, Max Biedrzycki 38
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with designing and building a structure using K’Nex that addresses a given challenge. Teams were required to use at least one motor and could not exceed 1400 K’Nex pieces. The 2019–20 challenge was “By conserving energy, we can reduce air and water pollution, lower electric bills, and create a healthier planet. Your team’s challenge is to create a way of conserving energy in the future. For example, transforming energy from one object to power another or creating a new type of energy to power a city. Create a model of your energy conservation idea out of K’Nex pieces. Be creative!” “The STEM Design Challenge encourages students to collaborate as they apply the engineering design process to accomplish a given goal,” said Jason O’Roark, gifted education teacher. “This year, the students’ winning design is intended to help generate clean energy using the motion of the waves.” Student teams compete within two grade level divisions, grades 4–5 and grades 6–8, and are judged on creativity, teamwork, challenge success, design, and presentation. The top team in each division at each regional competition advances to the state competition. In addition to designing and building a structure using K’Nex, teams must also create a blueprint and narrative about their structure. At competition, the teams of students are required to build their structure from their blueprints within a two-hour period of time. Once completed, they then present their design solution to a team of judges. Other District students who participated in the STEM Design Challenge included Ishaan Sharma, Rohan Mehta, Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar, Ryan Hyatt, Tyler McClintock-Comeaux, Colin Rump, and Carlee Santel. n
USC Students Excel in PA Math League Upper St. Clair students in grade six through 12 earned high honors in the recent Pennsylvania Math League (PML) contest. The intent of PML is to conduct math contests designed to stimulate student interest and confidence in mathematics. Boyce sixth graders finished first in the eight-county region and second overall among 73 schools from throughout Pennsylvania. Individually, Luke An achieved the highest score in the eight-county region and the second highest score in Pennsylvania. Also scoring among the top 34 in Pennsylvania were Arth Italiya, Will Whitman, Sara Gillespie, and Zahra Hossain. Fort Couch Middle School students also earned high honors with seventh graders finishing first in the eight-county region and fifth among 57 schools in Pennsylvania. Jamie Barrett, Eitan Schwartz, and Yuhong Shi finished among the top 32 students in the commonwealth. Fort Couch Middle School eighth graders placed second in the region and fourth among 57 schools in Pennsylvania. Libby Eannarino, Leona Chen, Arjun Suresh, and Brian McFerran were among the 33 top-scoring eighth graders in Pennsylvania.
Middle school students were given 30 minutes to solve 35 questions, ranging from simple and straightforward to complex math problems. The school’s team score—which comprise the school’s top five scores—is reported to the PML. At the high school level, PML consists of six contests each year, administered once a month (October–March) with six questions per contest. Problems draw from a wide range of high school topics, including geometry, algebra, trigonometry, logarithms, series, sequences, exponents, roots, integers, real numbers, combinations, probability, and coordinate geometry. Each six-question contest has a 30-minute time limit. The last two questions on each contest are more difficult than the first four, with the final question being intended to challenge the very best mathematicians. USCHS was the highest scoring school among the 17 participating high schools in Allegheny County and tied for fourth among the 102 schools in Pennsylvania. Graduating seniors Braden Yates and Katie Hobart were recognized as high scoring students in the commonwealth. n
USCHS Student Council Recognized The USCHS student council earned the National Council of Excellence Award from the National Student Council. To earn the National Council of Excellence Award, a high school student council must present evidence of meeting the 23 required indicators that cover topics, including governance, service, activities and operations, civic engagement, and student voice. Leading the effort for USCHS student council was RJ Shontz, president of the Class of 2022. “At the very beginning of our council’s work to be named a National Council of Excellence, we quickly realized that we did not meet all of the 23 indicators that were necessary to earn this award. However, this provided us with the opportunity to outline our year and work hard to meet each indicator of an advanced student council,” said RJ. “Striving to achieve the National Council of Excellence status helped us identify our weaker areas and put us on the right track to be on par with our nation’s top councils.” RJ believes the most efficient way to have a positive impact on students’ high school experiences is through cooperation between adults and students. “The most important role that student council serves is actively being the strand of communication and connecting the student body and our school’s administration,” he said. “We are thankful that our building principals do not solely make decisions from their perspective, but also take into consideration student council’s input gathered from the entire student body.” “Whether it is setting up for homecoming, overseeing the more than 70 clubs in our school, or planning USC Community Day, all of our initiatives fall under one mission statement: Unite voices; serve the community; commit to progress.” said RJ. “We are often asked the question, ‘What does student council even do?’ The answer is that council members work to make a student’s four years at USCHS the best they can possibly be.” The USCHS student council, sponsored by Brooke Tarcson, activities coordinator, comprises 70 students in grades nine
Members of USCHS’s award-winning student council, left to right: Anya Ekbote, Stephanie Spina, Kathleen Gianni, Shreya Golakiya, Sarah Christensen, RJ Shontz, Lily Tarcson, Hope Krawczyk
through 12 who plan countless school and community activities. “Student council is completely student-led and student-run,” said Brooke. “The executive board creates the agenda, the president or vice president runs the meetings, and the students work together to accomplish their goals. There are many meetings where I sit in the back of the room and just watch in awe as these students get more done in a weekly 50-minute meeting than I could ever imagine!” “They are constantly coming to me with ideas on how to improve our school and make a difference in the world,” said Brooke. “We’ve supported wellness, kindness, stress reduction, school spirit, food and clothing drives, and assisted and supported the school’s U-THON and No Place for Hate committees.” n For more information about National Student Council, which provides and promotes leadership development opportunities to prepare and empower student leaders to serve their schools and communities, visit www.NatStuCo.org. Fall 2020
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USCHS 2004 Boys Soccer Team Selected to WPIAL Hall of Fame It’s no exaggeration to say that the 2004 Upper St. Clair High School boys soccer team might have had the most dominant season in western Pennsylvania high school soccer history. Due to such a fantastic season, the team was honored with the selection into the WPIAL Hall of Fame this past spring. With a veteran roster that included 17 seniors and ten in the starting lineup, coach Uwe Schneider’s Panthers went 27–0 that year, won the WPIAL title, and repeated as PIAA Class AAA champions. Clearly the best team in the state, they also finished the season ranked No. 1 nationally in a StudentSports poll after defeating West Chester Henderson, 2–0, in the
state finals at Hersheypark Stadium. The team also was ranked No. 1 by National Soccer Coaches Association of America. Never before had a WPIAL boys soccer team won consecutive Class AAA titles, but this group wasn’t like most others. With seven future college players on the field, the team was unmatched all season. Upper St. Clair scored 111 goals, allowed only nine, and shut out 18 opponents. No team scored more than a single goal against USC’s defense. In the WPIAL playoffs, USC defeated Hempfield, 9-0, Peters Township, 5–0, Fox Chapel, 3–0, and Chartiers Valley, 3–1, in the finals. The PIAA playoffs included wins over Allderdice, 5–0, Fox Chapel, 3–1, Manheim Central, 2–0, and West Chester Henderson, 2-0. Combined, USC outscored its eight postseason opponents, 32–2. Senior forward Andy Machi led with a team-high 22 goals and senior midfielder Scott Dillie had 17. Machi later played at Penn State and Dillie played at Virginia Tech. Five others also went on to play college soccer: goalkeeper Andrew Baldasare (West Virginia Wesleyan), goalkeeper Joe Diederich (Xavier), Brett Fackenthal (West Virginia Wesleyan), Cam Griffin (Davidson), and Mitchell Minerd (Allegheny). The other starters were Matt McClintock, Eric Feduska, Cole Conboy, Michael Walters-Slezak, and Chris Sukenik. The seniors finished their high school careers with a 31-game winning streak that stretched over two seasons. Congratulations to the 2004 USCHS boys soccer team and their coaches for this honorable selection! n
The WPIAL Hall of Fame induction ceremony that was to be held in May 2020 has been postponed until 2021. While still being inducted, the official banquet and ceremony will not occur until May 2021. There will be no WPIAL Hall of Fame 2020 class due to COVID-19. Therefore the “class” designation for WPIAL Hall of Famers selected in 2020 will be for the Class of 2021.
Safe Return to Training Following Inactivity
Greg Wagner, USC Assistant Athletic Director, Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Injuries are more likely to occur during periods when athletes are transitioning from relative inactivity to regular training, specifically during the first two to four weeks upon return to activity. Conditioning periods should be phased in gradually and progressively to obtain proper exercise acclimatization to minimize health risks.
Recommendations
As athletes transition back into training, workouts should have lower work-to-rest ratios (W:R) and progress gradually up to full intensity. A W:R ratio compares the amount of time working (run, lift, etc.) to the time resting before another work period. Example: 20 seconds of sprinting (work) and 80 seconds of rest would be a W:R of 1:4. Conditioning Activities
Using a four-week conditioning progression protocol, with a 50/30/20 percent reduction in total volume from your previous maximum work volume, should allow for a safe and positive adaptation. The first week should be 50% reduction of former volume, second week 30% reduction, and so on. Plyometrics
With the same 50/30/20/10 percent rule: Week 1: <70 foot contacts, low intensity, 1:4 W:R Week 2: <80–100 foot contacts, low intensity, 1:3 W:R 40
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Week 3: <80 foot contacts, moderate intensity, 1:3 W:R Week 4: 80–100 foot contacts, moderate intensity, 1:3 W:R Week 5: 80 foot contacts, high intensity, 1:3 W:R
Weight Training
Due to its highly individualized nature, weight training should be adapted to the athlete’s chronological age, maturation age, and training age. All three of these conditions must be taken into consideration before a comprehensive weight training program is initiated. A return to training program could begin with body weight exercises (pushups, pull ups, squats, lunges, etc.) with moderate sets and reps. Example: 3 to 4 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions. A gradual progression with the addition of external resistance (weight, dumbbells, medicine balls, etc.) could begin in week two, with two sets of five to six repetitions with light intensity (weight). With the addition of resistance, a 1:4 W:R is suggested. Weeks three to five could be three sets of light to moderate intensity, with three to six repetitions. These suggested recommendations should help athletes as they prepare for a safe and healthy return to training after a period of relative inactivity. And, as always, dynamic stretching should be done before the workout and static stretching afterward. Remember, we “warm up to play, not play to warm up.” n
One Love Awareness in USC
Varsity Scorecard 2019– 2019 – 2020 SPORT
W-L-T
ACHIEVEMENT
FALL Cross-Country (Boys)
5-3-0
8th WPIAL
Cross-Country (Girls)
7-1-0
2nd Section, 3rd WPIAL, 4th PIAA
Field Hockey
6-10-0
Football
7-5-0
WPIAL quarterfinals
Golf (Boys)
13-1-0
Section champion, 2nd WPIAL, 2 WPIAL/PIAA medalists
Golf (Girls)
12-1-0
Section champion (3), WPIAL champion, 2nd PIAA
Soccer (Boys)
12-4-2
WPIAL quarterfinals
Soccer (Girls)
11-6-0
WPIAL playoffs
Tennis (Girls)
18-4-0
Section champion, 3rd WPIAL, PIAA quarterfinals
Volleyball (Girls)
5-12-0
WINTER Basketball (Boys)
21-5-0
Section runner-up, WPIAL semi-finals, PIAA playoffs
Basketball (Girls)
14-9-0
WPIAL semi-finals, PIAA playoffs
Wrestling
3-9-0
Swimming (Boys)
6-4-0
Section champion (3), 4th WPIAL, Josh Matheny–WPIAL and PIAA champion
Swimming (Girls)
4-5-1
5th WPIAL, Taylor Connors–WPIAL champion
Rifle
4-8-0
1st Section win since 2011–12, 1st non-Section win since 2010
Ice Hockey
14-7-0
PIHL playoffs
SPRING All spring sports were cancelled due to health concerns surrounding COVID-19.
Door Signs
The Tradition Remains, Regardless…
USCHS girl’s lacrosse team was among other sports teams unable to compete in the spring 2020 season due to COVID-19. Big things were expected for this group this past spring season, including play by six seniors, after achieving their first Section championship in 2019 and playing in the 2019 WPIAL state playoffs. This team was ready for more! But just like others, the lacrosse team will have to wait until 2021 to show their stuff, but without some of their key players who have since graduated. Something they could do this year was to participate in a virtual MOVEment for the One Love Foundation, the team’s new initiative. Players tracked their exercises to achieve “yards” in honor of Yeardley Love’s tragic death in 2010 in Charlottesville, Virginia. Yeardley was a UVA women’s lacrosse player, and her family started this foundation upon her death to help raise awareness about healthy relationships. The team earned more than one million yards in support of Yeardley! The team’s preparation and planning for MOVEment will help them get ready for the 2021 season. They were also working with the Mt. Lebanon girl’s lacrosse team to use their May gameday funds to raise money and awareness. The team looks forward to May 2021, when they will bring back the One Love initiative. n
We all know how the 2020 high school spring sports season went. Regardless of how it began and its eventual demise, booster groups encouraged their teams’ members with front door signs to show their support and love. Below are a few signs that honored graduating seniors of the girl’s lacrosse team. When these photos were taken, some signs were already hung and displayed, while others were being prepared to be hung. Do you like what you see? We encourage you to send photos of your studentathlete’s door sign when his or her season is underway and in full swing. It’s a fun way to share the love with TODAY readers! n To be included in TODAY’s quarterly print publication, email your originallysized high resolution digital photos, with a written description in the body of the email, to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, placing the word “USC Doors” in the subject line.
For more information, visit joinonelove.org or #yardsforyeardley. Fall 2020
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Student Artwork Celebrated This year’s Arts in USC contest celebrated artwork by District students in Kindergarten through grade seven. First, second, and third place honors were awarded to student artists for each grade level at five of the District’s six school buildings. Community members typically have an opportunity to view the student artwork at the annual spring Arts & Chocolate Spectacular at USC’s Community & Recreation Center; however, the event was canceled for this year. This year’s contest featured two themes: “A World of Understanding, A World of Compassion” for elementary students in Kindergarten through grade four and “No Place for Hate,” coordinating with the schools’ efforts with the Anti-Defamation League for middle school students in grades five through seven. Shown below are the top artists, listed by school. n
Baker Elementary
Eisenhower Elementary
Streams Elementary
Boyce Middle School
First place–Emily Lee Second place– Isabella El Nokali Third place–Harrison Russell
First place–Dillon Lentini Second place– Katherine Gellasch Third place–Simon Chapagai
First place–Damon LaSalle Second place–Alivia Rush Third place–Caleb Clougherty
First place– Sohana Shreya Senthil Second place–Joshua Beitler Third place–Matthew Beitler, Avantika Jayawant Palayeker
Kindergarten
First Grade
First place–Allison Marie Irvine Second place–Marco Salera Third place–Mae Bosbach Second Grade
First place–Lauren Scharrer Second place–Carter Russell Third place–Kriti Kulkarni Third Grade
First place– Samuel Charles Scher Second place–Arianna Jones Third place–Lily Evans Fourth Grade
First place–Anna Barefoot Second place– Joshitha Gourabathini Third place–Grace Nasman
Kindergarten
First Grade
First place–Elizabeth Zesch Second place–Finley Fadick Third place–Emma Mycoff Second Grade
First place–Luka Beric Second place–Bella Blohm Third place–Cora McMillen Third Grade
First place–Sonia Chapagai Second place–Anvi Vaishya Third place–Addie McCallum Fourth Grade
First place–Nora Stutzman Second place–Lily Seal Third place–Shirish Pradeep
Kindergarten
First Grade
First place–Sarah Sakowitz Second place–Elise Mostowy Third place–Naila Stuck
Fifth Grade
Sixth Grade
Second Grade
First place–Medha Misra Second place–Ray Lindstrom Third place–Tanvi Kallur
Third Grade
Fort Couch Middle School
First place–Lucas Rudolph Second place–Petra Stuck Third place–Renee Clougherty First place–Max Reyes Second place–Mira Murthy Third place–Lindsey Fitzgerald Fourth Grade
First place–Alexa Galbraith Second place–Emma Nadler Third place–Iris Wang
Seventh Grade
First place– Sophie Celine Einfeldt Second place–Olivia Fuscaldo Third place–Sydney Waldron
PTC Names 2019–20 Honorary Awardees The Upper St. Clair Parent Teacher Council announced its 2019–20 honorary awardees: Colette LeKachman, a parent volunteer, and Dan O’Rourke, Boyce Middle School principal. Each year, the PTC honors two outstanding individuals for their service and commitment to the District and its volunteer organizations. Candidates are selected for their continued service and for going above and beyond with efforts that have helped USC students and their families, as well as the PTC/PTO/PTA/PTSO organizations. Colette is the PTC’s outgoing committee chair for the Spelling Bee. Dan has served as the Boyce Middle School principal since 2016. Honorees are typically announced and recognized at the PTC’s May meeting. Due to the extended school closure, they will be formally recognized by the PTC in the fall. n 42
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Colette LeKachman
Dan O’Rourke
Pandemic? No Problem!
Using Creative Problem Solving to Compete Virtually When the coronavirus pandemic shut down businesses and schools this past March, Odyssey of the Mind (OM) was not exempt. Eighteen teams from Upper St. Clair had just competed at the regional tournament earlier that month, and seven of them were headed to state finals in early April. Like everything else, all Odyssey tournaments—including World Finals at Iowa State University in late May—were cancelled. It was a real blow for those teams whose odyssey was cut short. USC students were, in reality, fortunate, as regional tournaments were not yet held for many other teams around the world before the shutdown ended the competitions. But OM adapted to the new normal and kept the program going, virtually! OM is an international STEAM program that teaches students to use Boyce Middle School team, coached by Katie Talarico and creativity and teamwork to solve unique problems. Because of the pandemic, Christina Casciani, solved the performance problem and any team—regardless of whether or not they had competed at a regional collaborated by Zoom for the explanation portion of their video. Top row: Grace McDonough, Milena Casciani, Alexis Perenic; tournament—was given the chance to participate in the first-ever Odyssey middle row: Emme Ciccolella, Max Urban, Molly Biedrzycki; virtual world finals. bottom row: Catalina Ramirez Teams were required to submit their eight-minute performance via video, followed by a maximum of seven minutes of explanation where the students could elaborate on their solutions. Judges would evaluate the videos from their homes around the world. It was critical that teams follow their local social distancing guidelines, so if they were not able to get together to film their performance or explanation, it was up to them to creatively solve that “problem,” too. Six Upper St. Clair teams joined nearly 850 teams from around the world to participate in the Odyssey virtual world finals. Students from Eisenhower and Streams Elementary, Boyce and Fort Couch Middle School, and the high school submitted videos of their works. The teams took various approaches—some filmed outdoors while socially distanced, others took advantage of Zoom and Facetime to collaborate and appear together. For USC teams that would have advanced to States, coaches like Boyce Middle School’s Christina Casciani said, “It was a great opportuA USCHS team of juniors earned first place in division III for the performance problem; left to right: Constantine Tripodes, nity for our team to show off their hard work.” Streams Elementary team’s Joseph Markovitz, Eric Wang, Max Murtough, Brianna Lin, coach Sarah Sams noted, “It gave our team something to do and look forward Victoria Cuba, Sammie Seewald to.” And Eisenhower Elementary team’s coach Richard Earley said, “I thought it would be a huge missed opportunity if we skipped virtual world finals!” OM broadcast its virtual world finals awards ceremony via website and Facebook on May 30, and for a team of USCHS juniors, the results were remarkable! The student team of Victoria Cuba, Brianna Lin, Joseph Markovitz, Max Murtough, Sammie Seewald, Constantine Tripodes, and Eric Wang earned first place out of 36 teams in division III for the performance problem. “The last time a USC Odyssey team took the top prize at world finals was nearly ten years ago in 2011, so it’s quite an achievement,” noted Laura Murtough, the team’s co-coach, along with Stacey Seewald and Meridith Markovitz. “One judge noted that ‘this team’s video was the single biggest take away he had from this year and will be his explanation of how a virtual tournament can help showcase creativity in new ways.’ ” While many Pennsylvania teams participated at Odyssey’s virtual world finals, the USCHS team was the only group from Pennsylvania to earn first place and the only team in western Pennsylvania to appear in the top six. “We’re so proud of all of our USC teams,” said Laura. “Especially this group of juniors who’ve now competed together for five years. Their dedication and Scenes and highlights from the high school team’s solution. Their story included a murder mystery plot featuring gibberish clues that creativity continue to inspire us!” n
transformed into meaningful statements verbally (using a decoder), physically (through artwork), and audibly (via a team-created record player). Their solution also featured a live animation effect and a larger-than-life set that folded up into two squares.
To learn more about Odyssey of the Mind in Upper St. Clair, visit www.uscootm.com. Registration for the 2020–21 season begins mid-August. Fall 2020
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Art as a Refuge
Robyn Smigel, USCHS Art Teacher Upper St. Clair High School art students have responded to the stressors of quarantine and distance learning with the spirit of Matthew Arnold’s call to action: they have turned to art as refuge. In fact, student Brody Ploeger says, “During this time of quarantine, art has provided a great escape for me. I love to put in some earbuds, listen to music, and kind of forget about what’s happening right now as I paint or draw. It’s a stressful time, and art really helps me chill out.” The 2D Studio class focused on interior scenes in art history. They responded to the genre paintings of Vermeer and other famous artists before turning to their own interiors, both real and imagined. Students made observational drawings from nature for their botanical illustration project and studied the early 20th-century Art Nouveau style in furniture and architecture.
By Gabi Gomes
IB Visual Arts juniors read excerpts from an online art history text about what makes a successful work of contemporary art. They researched the work of contemporary artists for the course’s Process Portfolio. “During these times, it’s hard to find something that keeps me motivated. But through art and the assignments I get from art class, it is what is helping this craziness feel a little less crazy,” says Gabi Gomes, junior. After uploading their required work for the IB Visual Art class certificate, graduating seniors took on the popular “Getty Museum Challenge.” They recreated a piece from the Getty, using only materials found around the house. Check out their innovative pieces on the Art Department’s Twitter page @USCHSArtDept. TODAY intern and graduating senior Lauren Teresi explained, “Art during this quarantine has been a valuable way to process the tension, boredom, and anxiety of the pandemic. Keeping busy and creative has filled the days, and these projects have been an enjoyable part of each week. Particularly for this Getty Art Challenge, we considered humor, even with COVID-19 themes, and needed to think outside the box using materials we had at home. I chose to photograph a still life using objects that have been difficult to find during the crisis, such as hand sanitizer and toilet paper, to recreate Dorris Ulmann’s Darkroom Still Life.”
By Stephanie Lu
By Bridget Boal By Brody Ploeger
Bridget Boal reflects: “I think overall that remote art class has been an interesting experience. It has forced us to work with what we have and really be creative and resourceful!” Intro to 2D students learned about color theory. They created a color wheel and used it to create a collage, using a color theory of their choice. Kayla Lumish chose a butterfly for the subject of her work. She states that “Art has been the ultimate catharsis for me in this complex situation. With all this free time, I have been able to do art projects I usually wouldn’t have time for with a busy schedule of school, homework, sports, friends, and other daily activities.” By Kayla Lumish 44
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By Hillary Cluely
By Lauren Teresi
By Bridget Boal
By Jackie Kobeski
In the Intro to Ceramics course, students sculpted vessels without clay using upcycled materials from home, including magazines, leaves, and plastic bags. Students also completed a webquest on symbolism in Native American pottery. Inspired by their research, they created unique bowls with homemade paper mâché. Abby Zediker admits, “Although I’d rather be on the wheel making pottery, online ceramics has been more fun than I expected. My teacher has done a great job making interesting at-home activities, and it [an art class] is a great way for teenagers to have a creative outlet.”
Art still has truth, take refuge there! —Memorial Verses, April 1850, Matthew Arnold
The high school students are fortunate to have so many art offerings, especially during the pandemic. The art teachers have been creative innovators in adapting course objectives for remote learning experiences. No doubt, art is the refuge during quarantine, but art has always been essential to living a full life, no matter the limitations we must confront. As graduating senior Anna Medwig said, “The best quote I can think of is from Gone With the Wind: ‘Tomorrow is another day.’ And, I would add that the sun will rise again!” n
By Katelyn Robbins By Abby Zediker
By Ava Keating
By Anna Medwig Fall 2020
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PTC
Pawprints...
... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature Meet Our Presidents
Kerstin Goodworth
Beth Thomas
Council Kerstin Goodworth, President Name: Kerstin Goodworth Spouse: Matt Children: Leo (12), Amelie (8) Occupation: VP of strategy for Threads Worldwide Hobbies: Family hikes, reading, knitting What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? I feel like I’m still learning it, but the biggest lesson is to appreciate the simple things and refocus on what’s really important. High School PTSO Beth Thomas, President Name: Beth Thomas Spouse: Brian Children: Kevin Linn, USCHS junior; two stepdaughters: Natalie (22) lives in the Greensburg area and Allison (28) lives in Plano, Texas. Occupation: Real estate professional with Howard Hanna Hobbies: Being a dog mom, road trips with the family, DIY home projects, golf, pickleball, and attending music concerts What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? It’s okay to slow down. Fort Couch PTSO Siân Howell, President Name: Siân (pronounced “Sharn”) Howell Spouse: Lee Children: Jack (15), Grace (13), Louie (11) Occupation: Domestic goddess, aka: housewife Hobbies: Boot camp, concept 2 indoor rowing, family time What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? Slowing down and spending more time as a family has been such a pleasure. I realized that we are able to function in the world without rushing around as much as we normally would. And we actually have a lot of fun together, too! 46
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Siân Howell
Andrea Amorose
Jackie Barefoot
Boyce PTO Andrea Amorose, President Name: Andrea Amorose Spouse: Jason Children: Anton (12), Angeline (10) Occupation: Intake/transition services director Hobbies: Visiting and relaxing with family and friends, watching movies What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? Do not take things for granted. In the blink of an eye, life as most people know it has changed. From mild inconveniences to life or death situations, financial crisis, mental illness, political agendas, blame, neighbors against neighbors, and everything in between. It saddens me. As my family and I stayed home and were not running in what seems to be in all directions, there was always one constant: family. Being there for one another is what is important, helping others to the best of our ability and performing kind gestures, as simple or complex as they may be, is so important. As citizens of this community, we stepped back and looked at the big picture, and how to help others rather than just helping ourselves. As stressful as being confined at home was at times, I would not take for granted the precious moments spent with my loved ones, the times we could hug one another and just be with each other… or to clean my house with Clorox wipes. Baker PTA Jackie Barefoot, President Name: Jackie Barefoot Spouse: Luke Children: Anna (10), Lucas (8), Colette (6), Nolan (4) Occupation: Stay-at-home mom Hobbies: Cooking/baking, reading, working out at OTF and driving kids to activities What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? Our Fall 2020
Justine Walker
Michelle Holzer
time in quarantine was a good reminder that we do not need to be involved in every activity that is offered. It is okay to say “no” to some things. Taking the extra time to be together, to rest, and enjoy the little things is just as fulfilling, if not more. Eisenhower PTO Justine Walker, President Name: Justine Walker Spouse: Jonathan Children: Evelyn (10), Grace (8), Lily (6) Occupation: Stay-at-home mom Hobbies: Volunteering at Eisenhower, working out at Sweat, tennis, cooking, and running What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? How valuable family and friends are, and to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Streams PTO Michelle Holzer, President Name: Michelle Holzer Spouse: Chuck Children: Drew (8), Brady (7) Occupation: I’m a part-time freelance data analyst and live in Excel and Salesforce.com. Hobbies: I’m an avid Broadway musical fan and love all board games! What has been your biggest life lesson from the COVID-19 experience? My biggest takeaway is that, while I love having plenty of tasks and activities on my calendar, slowing things down can actually lead to better quality time and wonderful memories, too! Where we were previously struggling to find time to eat dinner as a family, we are now doing just that almost every night. We’ve found fun, new, and creative ways to spend the extra time together. We’ve even started a weekly family game night that we could never find the time for before COVID. The kids look forward to it every Tuesday! n
Streams Teacher Named to All-Star Roster
Lauren Bogus, a second-grade teacher at Streams Elementary, was recently selected as a 2020 All-Star Teacher by the Pittsburgh Pirates, one of 18 teachers chosen for this honor. Lauren was nominated by Dr. Claire Miller, Streams principal, and Kristen Wilson, a Streams parent. “Working alongside Lauren is an honor. She inspires her students to exceptional levels of creativity, designs highly engaging learning opportunities, and embraces all students within a nurturing and loving environment,” said Dr. Miller. “Her classroom is a lively place, designed with thought to individual differences and needs, while at the same time fostering a sense of pride in their community of learners, making ‘Team Bogus’ All-Stars!” Kristin Wilson, who teaches in a neighboring school district, considers her family doubly lucky that both of her sons have had Lauren as their second grade teacher. “Lauren is an outstanding educator who makes a significant positive difference in the lives of her students while they are in second grade and beyond,” said Kristin. “Her impact stays with her students far beyond the school year they spend in her classroom. Lauren cares about each child as an individual, meeting them where they are, relating to them, and taking them to where they need to be,” said Kristin. “She does this by providing engaging instruction across all academic areas, instilling a love of learning in her students, and encouraging lifelong learning.” The All-Star Teachers Program recognizes area educators for their exceptional classroom efforts and positive impact on students. This recognition is dedicated to honoring teachers who are making a significant difference in the lives of students across the region by providing engaging instruction and curriculum, encouraging lifelong learning, and inspiring a passion for education beyond the classroom.
This past offseason, teachers were nominated through Pirates.com for a chance to be named an All-Star Teacher. Nominations were asked to address ways that teachers demonstrated excellence in the following categories: innovative, outstanding, worldly, and academic. The timing of the award notification coincided with Teacher Appreciation Week. In Lauren Bogus was addition to a $1000 classroom grant, each teachgiven the award er received a $100 gift card for personal use, a announcement via a certificate to display in their classroom, and an surprise online meeting. invitation to be recognized for their achievement during an on-field pregame ceremony at a future Pirates game. The surprise celebration would normally take place at each winning teacher’s respective school, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pirates and their partners worked to coordinate online meetings to surprise each teacher and celebrate their accomplishments. “We surprised Lauren with a fake Zoom training,” said Dr. Miller. “Her mom, dad, husband, son, colleagues, and her students were all there awaiting her and the surprise announcement.” Also joining in the video call were members of the selection committee, including Pirates President Travis Williams, Pirates infielder Kevin Newman, the Pirate Parrot, and Pirates in-game host Joe Klimchak. n The All-Star Teacher recognition program is sponsored by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pirates Charities, Chevron, and The Grable Foundation, along with support from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and Intermediate Unit One.
Student Named to State Board of Education High school student Eva Rankin was selected to serve as one of two student representatives on the Pennsylvania State Board of Education (PSBE). She began a two-year term as a high school junior this past spring. Each year, the Pennsylvania Association of Student Councils (PASC) selects one student to serve a two-year term as representative on the Pennsylvania State Board of Education. These students become active voices on the State Board of Education by working closely with the adult representatives to draft and implement policies for basic and higher education in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They form close relationships with students across the state to voice their opinions about education and also organize PASC’s Student Summit in the spring. “One of the greatest strengths of Pennsylvania’s public education system is the versatility and magnitude of options available to students,” said Eva. “Two major pathways students can pursue are college preparation and career readiness. As a person who can see the importance of both paths, I appreciate how the public education system takes into account the different backgrounds, interests, and strengths of their students.” However, Eva believes that economic disparity among Pennsylvania’s 500 school districts remains a significant issue. “One aspect I wish to see improve in our public education system is the economic disparity between school districts in our state,” she said. “I am not ignorant of the fact that legislation has been considered and discussions have been held to rectify this issue; however, it remains one of my main concerns when it comes to the Pennsylvania public education system.” In addition to being an honor student, Eva is an active member of
the USCHS community. She serves in a leadership role through her participation in student council, the No Place for Hate Committee, the Leadership Academy, Natural Helpers, and Best Buddies. She is a member of the varsity soccer and indoor track teams and participates in the school’s choir, as well on the Speech and Debate team. She also competes in club soccer for the Beadling Soccer Club. “From the very first day at the high school, Eva has raised her hand and rolled up her Eva Rankin sleeves, never turning down an opportunity to serve,” said Brooke Tarcson, USCHS activities coordinator and student council sponsor. “I’ve watched her in action, using collaboration and networking to drive to common ground with her fellow student council senators.” As a PSBE student representative, Eva will represent Pennsylvania’s students at bimonthly meetings in Harrisburg. In addition, she will attend PASC events and executive board meetings and help to organize the Student Summit. Every spring, PASC invites Pennsylvania high schools to send six students to Harrisburg for a Student Summit on personal and organizational advocacy. The annual event is designed for students in grades ten through 12 who have an awareness of and an interest in school, community, state, and national issues. n Students interested in applying to be a student representative on the PSBE must be a high school sophomore during the application cycle. Applications are available online each January. If selected as a finalist, applicants are invited to be interviewed in Harrisburg. Fall 2020
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#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Carson Scholar Speech & Debate Academic All-Americans This past spring, Morgan Meddings Five USCHS students earned Academic All-American Awards from the National Speech & #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat was selected as a 2020 Carson Scholar. The Debate Association. Vivek Babu, Basir Khan, Alex Lampe, and Anusha Neupane, all USCHS Carson Scholars Fund awards $1000 college Class of 2020 graduates, as well as rising high school senior #TheyDidWhat Maddie Nolen were honored for #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat scholarships to students in grades 4–11 who their academic rigor, competitive speech and debate success, and personal excellence. “This excel academically and are dedicated to serving tremendous accomplishment places these students among the top one percent of all student #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat their communities. members across the country,” said J. Scott Wunn, executive director of the National Speech & Nominated by USCHS school counselor Debate Association. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Thomas Marquis, Morgan is an active member To earn this coveted honor, students must meet the following minimum requirements: 3.5 of USCHS. She supports her classmates as unweighted GPA, 1300 SAT or 27 ACT score, and 750 National Forensic League Honor Society #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat a Natural Helper and junior mentor. She is points. From more than 141,000 student members of the National Speech & Debate Association, a member of the mock trial team, ski club, fewer than one percent of students earn the Academic All-American Award each year. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat National Honor Society, and Best Buddies, These five students join USCHS 2020 graduates Claire Chen, Devan Ekbote, Mathena Jencka, for which she has been named #TheyDidWhat president for Sunny Chai, and Anika Sinha, who were recognized as Academic All-Americans last fall. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the 2020–21 school year. Morgan served as the head of costumes for the school’ s spring #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat musical. A participant in the school’s summer Leadership Academy, she also #TheyDidWhat competes on #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the cross country and track teams during the school’s sports seasons. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Beyond her school involvement, Morgan is active within the greater community. For #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the last six years, she oversaw the Christmas Vivek Babu Basir Khan Alex Lampe Anusha Neupane Maddie Nolen cookie drive for the Little Sisters of the Poor. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat She also serves as a religious education mentor for children with special needs#TheyDidWhat and summer #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Poems Selected for Publication camp counselor at Poems from 14 Boyce Middle School sixth graders were selected for publication in the 2020 Camp AIM. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Creative Communication poetry contest. Published student #TheyDidWhat poets included Sofia AlfredsonCarson Scholars Themudo, Ayan Amin, Tony Chen, Noshi Dabas, Isabella Donnelly, Sara Gillespie, Leo Goodworth, must have a #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pritika Gupta, Joanna Jalali, Lylah Kateeb, Madeline Moran, Ellie Simons, Ben Whiteford, and minimum GPA of William Whitman. 3.75 and display #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat “As we studied color symbolism in the novel The Westing Game, students wrote poems humanitarian that illustrated the symbolism of a certain color,” said Diane Ecker, Boyce Middle School gifted qualities through #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat coordinator. community service. The poetry contest, open to students K–9, was divided into three grade divisions: K–3, 4–6, Congratulations #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat and 7–9. Entries were#TheyDidWhat judged on literary merit, creativity, and#TheyDidWhat social significance by published Morgan! writers and/or educators in elementary, secondary, and higher education levels. Morgan Meddings #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Fighting Childhood Hunger #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat By holding a fundraising T-shirt sale, USCHS students Lauren Glassbrenner, Ammar #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Kethavath, Sam Scalzo, Victoria Semenov, and Artwork Awarded Third Place Isaac Yap helped make sure kids throughout #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Diana Fernandez Medina, a USCHS rising senior, placed third in the Three Rivers German the nation had access to meals while schools Day competition and was awarded an Amazon gift card for her drawing of the Neuschwanstein were closed due to COVID-19. The group #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Castle in Germany. designed a USC T-shirt through Custom Ink “Students in the USCHS Passport to German class prepared a skit, which they were unable and sold each one for $25, with#TheyDidWhat 63% of each #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat to enter when the 2020 competition switched to a virtual competition due to COVID-19,” sale benefiting No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit Lynne Kopaz, German teacher, said. organization dedicated to supporting kids who #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat “But Diana entered her drawing and are struggling. The five students, determined represented the class in the virtual to make a positive difference,#TheyDidWhat viewed this #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat competition.” fundraiser as a way to contribute to a much Hosted by Washington & Jefferson greater world relief effort. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat College, Three Rivers German Day is “Since No Kid Hungry is a national an annual competition for high school organization and it distributes resources #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat students from throughout the Pittsburgh nationwide as deemed necessary, we chose it region. Students compete in a variety of as our non-profit group,” said #TheyDidWhat Victoria. “It’s #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat categories, including German fiction such a worthwhile cause, especially since and non-fiction writing, GermanCOVID-19 has disrupted many aspects of #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat themed arts and crafts, poetry recitation, our day-to-day lives, particularly providing music and drama presentations, and a the millions of meals that 22 million school #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat German cultural quiz bowl. children rely on every day.” Diana’s drawing of Neuschwanstein Castle #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat 48 UPPER ST. CLAIR#TheyDidWhat TODAY Fall 2020
#TheyDidWhat
#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Students Connect with Female STEM Teachers The high school’s Spark Girls #TheyDidWhat into STEM (SGIS) Club hosted 50 #TheyDidWhat female students and eight female science and math teachers for breakfast and round-table discussions at the high school this past March. “I #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat realized that we have such an amazing faculty that we sometimes take for granted here at Upper St. Clair,”#TheyDidWhat said Reshma Gudla, USCHS student #TheyDidWhat and SGIS president. “As students, we typically dismiss our teachers as just ‘teachers’ without acknowledging what led them to where they #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat are today.” During the 90-minute event, students connected with their female #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat STEM teachers. Every seven minutes, teachers rotated to the next table, allowing all students to learn#TheyDidWhat more about each teacher, her STEM #TheyDidWhat journey, and the challenges and rewards of working in her chosen discipline. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat “The purpose of the event was to bridge the gap between students and teachers, as well as to highlight#TheyDidWhat the fact that our teachers are willing #TheyDidWhat to support us along our journey to becoming the next female engineers, doctors, or whatever it may be in a#TheyDidWhat field that is generally dominated by #TheyDidWhat males,” said Reshma. Members of the faculty who participated in the breakfast round#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat tables included Dawn Mostowy, biology; Lynn Kistler, environmental science and physics; #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pat Palazzolo, gifted education; Stephanie #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Fisher, math; Tracey Va c c o , f o r e n s i c #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat science; Antoinette Vizzini, math; Laura #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Marks, chemistry; and Tracey Smith, physics. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Students enjoyed speaking with their female STEM teachers at the breakfast event. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Drive-by Gift Card Collection #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat A drive-by gift card collection for SHIM to offer help to our South Hills neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic was held in the high #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat school parking lot this past April. Rising USCHS freshman Jude Pagliai and his mother, Abby, coordinated the event, which raised $6900. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Seven Inducted to NTHS #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Seven USCHS students enrolled in programs at Parkway West Career & Technology Center were inducted into the National Technical #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Honor Society (NTHS) this past May. Inductees included graduating senior Lucas Gillespie; rising seniors Gabrielle Caudill, Ethan Hanson, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat and Madison Jordan; and rising juniors Ariana Braughler, Michael Gualterieri, and Sten Wheeler. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat To be eligible for induction, students must have completed a full year at Parkway West, have five or fewer unexcused absences, achieved #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat an A average in their tech program and a B or higher in their academic classes, and successfully participate in an interview process. Inductees #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat should embody seven attributes: leadership, scholarship, skills, honesty, citizenship, service, and responsibility. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat The NTHS currently serves more than 100,000 active members and nearly two million alumni since its inception in 1984. NTHS honors the #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat achievements of top career and technical education students, provides scholarships to encourage the pursuit of higher education, and cultivates #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat excellence in today’s highly competitive, skilled workforce. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat
#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat State-Level GeoBee Qualifier Boyce Middle School sixth grader Ayan Amin was named among #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat 100 semifinalists eligible to compete in the 2020 National Geographic GeoBee state-level competition for Pennsylvania. This is the second #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat level of the National Geographic GeoBee competition, which is now in its 32 year. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat In December 2019, Ayan was crowned Boyce champion at the school-level competition. To determine #TheyDidWhat each school champion, GeoBee #TheyDidWhat competitions were held in schools throughout the commonwealth with students in grades four through #TheyDidWhat eight. School champions were #TheyDidWhat administered an online qualifying test, which was submitted to the National Geographic Society. Up to 100#TheyDidWhat of the top-scoring students in #TheyDidWhat each state were invited to compete in the State GeoBees. The state-level competition was #TheyDidWhat originally scheduled for late #TheyDidWhat March and the 2020 National was set for May #TheyDidWhatChampionship #TheyDidWhat at the National Geographic in Washington, #TheyDidWhatheadquarters #TheyDidWhat DC. However, both events canceled due to health #TheyDidWhatwere #TheyDidWhat safety concerns surrounding the pandemic. This year, #TheyDidWhatcoronavirus #TheyDidWhat an estimated 2.4 million students in the GeoBee, with #TheyDidWhatcompeted #TheyDidWhat 8661 students becoming school #TheyDidWhatchampions. #TheyDidWhat Visit www.natgeobee.org for #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat more information on the National Geographic GeoBee. Ayan Amin #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat First-Grader Named Writing Contest Finalist A Streams Elementary first grader is#TheyDidWhat one of 27 finalists in the 2020 #TheyDidWhat WQED Writers Contest. Seven-year-old Sarah Sakowitz’s story, “The Girl with the Most Beautiful Smile,” was selected from among nearly #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat 1000 entries from throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, and Delaware. A student in#TheyDidWhat Katie Hendrickson’s class at #TheyDidWhat Streams Elementary, Sarah found great humor in a couple of experiences that inspired her latest story. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat “Just like Susie Strobwary, the main character in the story, I had spaces in my mouth, between my teeth. Since then, my permanent #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat teeth have grown in, but left me with another problem... my front teeth are too big for my face! So one day, I drew a caricature of myself with #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat an exaggerated smile. It made me laugh out loud,” said Sarah. “I also remembered a funny thing my first-grade teacher, Mrs. Hendrickson, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat said when I showed her my missing teeth. She said, ‘Wow, you can fit a in that space.’ That made me #TheyDidWhatcar#TheyDidWhat laugh out loud, too. That's when thinking of other funny #TheyDidWhat I started #TheyDidWhat jokes about gaps. The story took from there.” #TheyDidWhat off#TheyDidWhat Entries were judged on and originality of plot #TheyDidWhat creativity #TheyDidWhat and/or themes; story structure use of literary devices; and #TheyDidWhat and#TheyDidWhat relevance, quality, and originality illustration. #TheyDidWhat of#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat finalists’ stories are available #TheyDidWhat All #TheyDidWhat to read and listen to via WQED’s Writers Contest page at #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Sarah Sakowitz www.writeonkids.org. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Fall 2020 UPPER ST. #TheyDidWhat CLAIR TODAY 49 nd
Penning a Note to the Underclassmen Haley Beardsley, USCHS Class of 2020
As a new USCHS alumna and member of the Class of 2020, I would like to pass on my top six bits of advice to the high school’s underclassmen. 1. Soak it in. I rolled my eyes every time someone told me “Those four years fly by fast,” or “High school is the time of your life.” Granted, I had a rewarding, decent high school experience, but please do not roll your eyes. As COVID-19 stripped the remaining three months of my senior year, all I wanted was more. I missed the laughs, small waves in the hall, the incredible teachers, and even being asked to quiet down in the school’s resource center. 2. Get involved. I can’t imagine my high school experience without being involved in the school’s clubs and activities. I remember being completely overwhelmed at freshman rush, but I promised myself to sign up for at least one club (it ended up being Girls United Globally). However, that one club led to endless involvement, which further allowed me to find my place in the high school. I have to shout out to the Speech and Debate team because I did not think I would “fit in,” but it ended up being a highlight of my high school experience. Also, the softball team needs some love because I have never laughed more, and “#playoffs #firsttimein20years.” 3. Meet as many people as you can and remember their names. Not only will more doors open with the more people you meet and connections you make, but you will come to know and understand more of the extraordinary people that fill the school. Everyone has a story—teachers, administrators, staff—and becoming closer with them will make your experience much richer. By simply remembering a name, you will have someone to wave to in the halls or share your story with.
4. There are countless opportunities provided to all young adults at the high school and in our community, but you have to want them. Nothing will be given to you. You will have to work for it. The high school can nurture a competitive nature, but do it for yourself, not for the college application or for the grade. I know that it’s easy to say, but if you think more about what you’re doing rather than the outcome, I promise that you will be more pleased. 5. Your teachers want you to succeed. When the course load gets tough and the grading becomes harsh, you will lose sight that your teachers are people, too. They became teachers because they want to help their students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. USC teachers are passionate about what they teach and they want to inspire the same passion. While they may not seem passionate on an everyday basis, give them some slack; they repeat the same lessons, the same chapters, and the same units day after day. 6. Be proud of yourself in all aspects. I remember the pressure that you now feel. I felt it every day as I wanted nothing more than my college application to be pristine. Know that you will accomplish many things. Be proud that you got up every morning and went to school. Be proud of the grade you got on that math test. Everything will sort itself out, and scheduled plans will change. In the end, be proud and always be humble. My time at USCHS was a period of growth, change, and introspection, and I am now proud to say that I have graduated. Eventually, you will say the same. But, do not let a single moment slip away on the road to getting there. It all passes faster than you may think. n
Fun Facts Surrounding Our Schools The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair preserved a 1989 presentation by John Small about the rapid growth of the Upper St. Clair School District. Here are some takeaways from his talk. • When Fort Couch School opened in September 1951, it served grades K–9 for the entire USC Township, 647 students in total. Students in grades ten through 12 attended high school in either Bridgeville or Mt. Lebanon. • In 1957, the District agreed to build a new elementary school. Initial plans included building immediately behind Fort Couch School and constructing the new school out of stainless steel. These plans were rejected. The new elementary school, originally named Seegar Elementary, opened as Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary School in 1959. • When the Carl R. Streams Elementary School opened in 1966, it was unique due to the fact that it was an all-electric, totally carpeted school building. • Upper St. Clair almost had two high schools. In the mid to late 1960s, there were discussions of building a second high school after the first high school was built in the early ’60s. The idea was eventually voted down due to the cost of duplicating a gym, science lab, auditorium, cafeteria, and other school facilities. • When Boyce Middle School and Albert E. Baker Elementary School opened in 1969, the School District shifted to all bus transportation. Previously, students who lived less than two miles away from their school building were expected to walk. A state safety representative deemed the lack of sidewalks in USC Township as too hazardous for walking to continue. n 50
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courtesy of the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair
Upper St. Clair High School band in 1963, under the direction of Angelo Ruzzini
For additional historic Upper St. Clair School District information and photos, check out Upper St. Clair Historical Society’s Facebook page.
From
baby bump to baby bundle
For everything you and your baby need during your pregnancy and delivery, count on St. Clair Hospital to provide a full continuum of safe and family-centered care. Here you’ll find some of the region’s finest OB/GYN doctors, state-of-the-art technology, and warm and comfortable Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum suites. At St. Clair, our Level II Special Care Nursery and highly trained pediatricians are available 24/7 to ensure both mom and baby are always in good hands. Every year, more than 1,500 babies are born to proud parents at St. Clair, consistently ranked as a national leader in quality, patient safety, patient satisfaction and value. To find one of our leading OB/GYN physicians, please visit stclair.org/delivering.
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Health & Wellness Guide
This is beautiful. This is home.
This is Providence Point—an active community for people who want to truly enjoy life and have peace of mind for the future. Resort-like amenities, an endless calendar of events, and unparalleled dining combine with stellar healthcare so you can live life to its fullest. Providence Point is Pittsburgh’s premier 62+ Life Plan Community. Call today to schedule an in-person or virtual tour.
View all of our spacious floor plans and take a virtual tour at
www.providencepoint.org.
A Baptist Homes Society community
CALL 412.489.3550
500 Providence Point Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15243
Providence Point Residents Find Resilience in COVID Times PP Ad-USCSummer 2020.indd 2
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Marilyn Walsh, Baptist Homes Society Residents of Providence Point are seasoned at being resilient. They have lived through depressions and recessions, wars and weak economies, epidemics and illnesses. COVID-19 introduced some new challenges, but residents of this 62+ Life Plan Community in Scott Township were up for the task. Two years ago, when work on Providence Point’s expansion began, residents proved their resilience and resourcefulness. When detours and dust required them to modify routines and make detours, they not only adapted, they offered suggestions to help ease the inconveniences for all residents. The expansion, which was completed in late 2019, includes expanded dining venues, state-of-the-art wellness areas, a non-denominational chapel, and a 70-unit residential tower. In the ensuing months, Providence Point welcomed more than 60 new residents who moved into the new Hamilton Tower, or one of the two existing apartment towers, or spacious 52
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patio homes. The vibrant community was just beginning to hit its new stride when COVID-19 hit. The folks living at Providence Point, who were accustomed to easy access to a robust social, wellness, and cultural calendar, again called on their resilience. As social distancing became the new norm, they quickly created ways to stay active mentally and physically, and to keep connections with their neighbors. They created a “check on your neighbor” phone tree. The regular Monday Morning Coffee Club turned into a Zoom event. Yoga class participants tuned into their Touchtown app for streaming pre-filmed classes. Residents reached out to each other, and turned to long-time hobbies and new passions to pass the time. Impressively, many residents expanded their technology skills and adapted well to using Zoom and other video communication platforms for lectures, social time, clubs, and lessons. Fall 2020
Masks and social distancing wouldn’t stop past bocce champion Kathleen Dougherty from her practice time.
When Allegheny County began to reopen its doors, Providence Point residents appeared to have weathered the storm quite well. Some say they have grown stronger in friendships, in caring for each other, and in being resilient. At the beginning of June, bocce season started, dining venues were developing safe-distance options, and folks were taking advantage of strolling Providence Point’s tranquil paths and courtyards, being respectful of keeping their distance. As one resident stated, “I am so glad I am living here during this crisis. I feel safe and not so alone.” n If you are interested to learn more about Providence Point, call 412-489-3550 to schedule an in-person meeting or a virtual tour, or to join a Zoom session. See ad on this page.
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Look your best. Feel even better. There’s nothing like the feeling you get when you love what you see in the mirror. It’s a sense of confidence and well-being that comes from within. It’s a feeling we can help you experience through the very best in expertise and aesthetics. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and backed by St. Clair Hospital, we provide a full range of cosmetic enhancement and plastic surgery services tailored to your individual goals. If you’ve been thinking about refreshing your appearance, call us today. Because looking good goes well beyond the surface.
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A Look at Safety
You’ve probably heard a lot about vaping lately. You might also know about the recent outbreak of lung injuries and deaths linked to vaping in the U.S. But those aren’t the only risks that come with vaping. Here’s what you need to know. Vaping devices, also known as e-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-hookahs (among other terms), come in many shapes and sizes. Some look like traditional cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Others are shaped like every-day objects, like pens or USB memory sticks. While they may look different, most vaping devices work in a similar way. Puffing activates a battery-powered heating device. The puffing heats the liquid in a cartridge, which turns it into vapors that are inhaled. Vaping exposes the lungs to a variety of chemicals. These may include the main active chemicals in tobacco (nicotine) or marijuana (THC), flavorants, and other ingredients that are added to vaping liquids. Plus, other chemicals can be produced during the vaporizing process. “If the liquid has nicotine in it, then the user is inhaling nicotine along with the other ingredients in the liquid,” explains Dr. Thomas Eissenberg, an expert on tobacco research at Virginia Commonwealth University. While all vaping devices work similarly, some are more powerful than others. They
create more vapor and deliver more chemicals. So how safe is vaping? Studies suggest nicotine vaping may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes when people who regularly smoke switch to them as a complete replacement. But nicotine vaping could still damage your health. “Your lungs aren’t meant to deal with the constant challenge of non-air that people are putting into them—sometimes as many as 200 puffs a day—day after day, week after week, year after year,” Eissenberg says. “You’re inhaling propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and flavorants that are meant to be eaten but not inhaled, and nicotine,” he explains. “All of those are heated up in this little reactor, which is an e-cigarette. When they get heated up, those components can turn into other potentially dangerous chemicals.” One harmful chemical may be a thickening agent called Vitamin E acetate, which is sometimes used as an additive in THCcontaining vape products. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identified it as a “chemical of concern” among people with vaping-associated lung injuries. They recommend avoiding any vaping product containing Vitamin E acetate or THC, particularly those from informal sources like friends, family, or in-person or online dealers. Vaping is now more popular among teens Fall 2020
than smoking traditional cigarettes. One in four high school seniors say they vaped nicotine in the past month. And studies have found that teens who vape nicotine may be more likely to go on to smoke traditional cigarettes. Marijuana vaping has also increased dramatically among teens. About 20% of high school seniors vaped marijuana in the past year. The rates have more than doubled in the past two years. New laws are aimed at curbing vaping among teens. People must now be 21 to buy any tobacco product, including vaping products. And to combat the use, companies are no longer permitted to produce and sell flavors, like fruit and mint, that appeal to children. n This article appeared recently in News in Health, a monthly newsletter from the National Institute of Health, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and was reprinted with expressed permission. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Health & Wellness Guide
Alayna Butcher, MD
Carly Zuwiala, MD
Malay Sheth, MD
Kathryn Simons, MD
Marianne Wizda, MD
Excellent care and the personal attention every woman deserves Won 1st place for Best OB/GYN Practice three years in a row through the Observer Reporter’s Best-of-the-Best awards.
Preparing for Pregnancy The decision to have a baby is very exciting. For many women, this decision also comes with many questions. What can be done to prepare for pregnancy? What can be done to ensure a healthy pregnancy? How long will it take to get pregnant? The preconception period, the time before pregnancy, is the ideal time to optimize healthy habits and lifestyle choices. It is also the time to modify bad habits, such as smoking and/or drug and excessive alcohol use that could negatively affect a pregnancy. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a well-balanced, nutritious diet and regular exercise is important at all times in a woman’s life, but is particularly important when trying to conceive and throughout the pregnancy period,” explains Kathryn Simons, MD, OB/GYN division chair and practicing physician with Washington Health System. “Although most nutrients should come from food, a multivitamin is an excellent supplement that will help to guarantee that women are meeting all of their daily vitamin requirements,” says Dr. Simons. One of the most important vitamins to take when preparing for pregnancy is folic acid. Daily folic acid (400 micrograms—the amount commonly found in a multivitamin) in the pre-pregnancy period and first three months of pregnancy helps prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. If possible, achieving a normal body weight before becoming pregnant will also optimize pregnancy outcomes. A normal body weight before and during pregnancy helps overall fertility and minimizes complications of pregnancy. Women with excess weight are more likely to experience complications of 54
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Monica Smith, DO
Nicole Garcher, DO
William J. Mitsos, MD
OB/GYN Care whs.org/obgyn
(724) 225-3640
4198 Washington Road, McMurray, PA Additional Locations: Washington - Waynesburg - Cecil - California
pregnancy, including elevated blood pressure, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, pre-term birth, and increased rate of cesarean delivery. Women who are underweight are more likely to have a low birth-weight baby or experience a preterm delivery. The preconception period is also an important time for women to review their medical history, making sure all immunizations are up to date and that any medications being used are safe and approved to use during pregnancy. “Women who have medical conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, seizure disorders or depression, have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy. It is important for them to discuss these conditions with their physician so that the medical condition is well controlled before pregnancy,” says Dr. Simons. Once a woman has optimized her health and lifestyle for pregnancy, the next question often is, “How long will it take to get pregnant?” A couple can start trying to conceive immediately after stopping birth control. Although fertility can be influenced by many factors, including age and overall health, most couples (85%) are able to conceive within one year. A couple who has not conceived after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse should meet with their physicians to begin an evaluation for possible factors affecting fertility. Preparing for pregnancy helps to create a healthy environment for the mother-to-be and the baby. n This article was provided by Washington Health System. For more information, call Washington Health System OB/GYN Care at 724-225-3640 or visit www.whs.org/obgyn. See ad on this page.
Health & Wellness Guide Hearing is Essential, Now More Than Ever
Debra Swift, BC-HIS, Owner of Swift Audiology We know the past few months have
been unusual and difficult times for everyone. Swift Audiology is committed to continue providing exceptional care, and we have taken thoughtful measures to help protect our clients and our staff during this time of uncertainty. But, let’s be sure. Hearing means being connected. Understanding the conversation. Staying focused on what matters. Better hearing isn’t just an investment in a hearing instrument; it’s an investment in yourself and your experiences still to come. Our offices are open and our team is prepared to help you. We are extending time between appointments to provide individual waiting room experiences with no other patients present and allowing staff time to completely sanitize the office between appointments. We are also offering the following services: • Curbside service. When you arrive in the parking lot, give us a call. A team member will come to your car, obtain your hearing devices, talk with you to determine the problem you are experiencing, and then perform the required services in our office. Once completed, we’ll bring your hearing devices back out to you, including any needed supplies, including batteries. • Personal appointments. In order to lessen the amount of traffic in the common areas, we ask that only those who are essential to the patient’s care attend the office visit for now. We are also spacing out time between appointments to allow us to sanitize and prepare for your arrival. • Remote support. Many hearing aids now connect directly to your phone and have remote adjustment capabilities. Our team can address any programming needs while you stay home. Contact the office for questions using this feature. • Ship supplies to your home. If you’re needing supplies (like hearing aid batteries), give us a call to order and we’ll ship directly to your home. Think about the sounds that bring a smile to your face. There is no better time than today to make hearing better a priority. Call us to schedule a stay-at-home consultation where we can answer your questions, while supporting your hearing health in the safety of your home. n Call Swift Audiology at 412-851-9500. See ad on this page.
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the smart choice for hearing care • No crowds: Our offices are set up for easy social distancing with your own private waiting, testing, and fitting rooms • Patient health pre-screening before appointments • Complete sanitation after each appointment • Curbside service from the comfort of your own car • Video consultations from home using your cell phone or computer
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4 Locations Serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area Allison Park | North Hills | South Hills | Washingston www.swiftaudiology.com Fall 2020
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Health & Wellness Guide
Celebrate Life. Bridgeville’s newest independent retirement living community is now open and leasing fast!
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Strengthening Family Bonds Through Bike Riding
Keith Apelgren, Owner, Richard Hatch, Senior Instructor, Learn3Ride Remember how you learned to ride a bike and the sense of freedom it gave you to be able to ride with your friends? Many childhood bonds are made this way. Growing up in Upper St. Clair, bicycling is a major part of our childhood socialization. In the age of COVID-19 when so many recreational activities have been curtailed, bicycling with the family provided an outlet for much needed exercise, a chance to spend time with your kids, and a chance to experience western Pennsylvania’s countryside at its best. Regionally, bicycling activity is growing. In our area, we are fortunate to have county and city parks with many bike trails on which to ride. Pennsylvania has more than 10,000 miles of existing and ever-expanding rail-to-trail paths waiting to be explored on bike. Examples include Boyce Mayview Park, the Montour Trail, and the Great Allegheny Passage. Shared family biking adventures create memories that last a lifetime. Bicycling does not come without its dangers. Mark Twain once said, “Learn to ride a bicycle. You will not regret it if you live.” For the fourth straight year, bicycling accidents were the third leading cause of trips to the emergency room, according to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). Further, incidents of catastrophic injuries are high, and sadly 56
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most accidents are due to bicyclist error. In our culture, learning to ride a bike has traditionally been a parent-to-child experience. Parent-to-child teaching communicates core riding skills, but rarely communicates best safety practice, which raises the incidence of accidents. Bicycle safety is essential in biking. For instance, the use of a helmet significantly reduces the chance of injury from a fall. Obeying traffic laws and use of hand signals are paramount in preventing vehicular accidents. Our state and local governments are aware of the converging trends of greater participation in biking activities and the higher incidence of injury. In an attempt to flatten the curve of biking injuries, new trails and new trail connectors are continually being developed. State leaders, including State Representative Natalie Mihalek, have consistently voted to ensure trail funding. Locally, Upper St. Clair Township has led the state in its efforts to teach safe bicycle operation. Under the visionary
Health & Wellness Guide 580 South Aiken Avenue Suite 530 Pittsburgh, PA 15232
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Flavia Davit, MD
“I first met Dr. Davit when she did a surgical rotation with me in the operating room. I was not only impressed with her surgical ability but also with her knowledge and dedication to the field of plastic surgery. She is one of the few surgeons in the world fully-trained in plastic surgery both in Brazil and the United States and board certified in plastic surgery in both countries.” – Dr. Leo McCafferty
guidance of Paul Besterman, Upper St. Clair Township’s Director of Recreation and Leisure Services, Upper St. Clair became the first municipality in the state to offer a “Learn To Ride Safely” bicycle program to teach novice riders and assist families that are having difficulty developing the skills necessary for safe bicycle operation. Based on those initial efforts, breakthroughs in teaching children with learning disabilities, including autism, have resulted in numerous children learning to ride who potentially wouldn’t have. Since its inception in 2017, this safety program has grown exponentially and is now offered at most Allegheny county parks. As the fall season approaches, with the changing colors of the fall foliage, some of the most beautiful countryside can be seen by bicycle. What better time to get out and ride with your family than now? n The Pennsylvania DOT publishes The Pennsylvania Bicycle Driver Manual, PUB 380 (4-18), which spells out safe riding best practices and is available electronically and can be downloaded from the DOT website at https://www.dot.state.pa.us/public/PubsForms/ Publications/PUB%20380.pdf. To learn more, call 412-877-5852 or visit Learn3Ride.com.
Changes in Your Body After Pregnancy Dr. Flavia Davit
Maternity can be an important and enjoyable moment in a woman’s life. Nevertheless, it also brings changes to the body, especially in the breasts and abdomen. During pregnancy, hormone levels change to help prepare the woman’s body for bearing the child. These changes cause an increase in breast size, sometimes two to three times larger than baseline. The uterus also becomes larger to allow the fetus to grow, which stretches the abdominal wall. After pregnancy, the breasts tend to return to their pre-pregnancy sizes, but many women experience the loss of breast volume and rounded shape because of loosening of the skin. The abdominal wall also tends to become thinned out and weak. The abdomen’s “six-pack” muscles may also become separated in the midline after being stretched, which is what is known as “diastasis.” “Mommy Make Over” is a term used when women seek surgical intervention to return their body’s shape to the similarly-sized shape it was prior to pregnancy. There are several surgical procedures that can be used to achieve this goal. A personalized approach is most important when considering these procedures, and your plastic surgeon will work with you to help guide your decisions. The appropriate procedures should be chosen based on each patient’s own body shape and goals for improvement. The breast shape and volume can be improved with breast implants (silicone, saline), or breast lifting, and can even sometimes benefit from both. A tummy tuck can be used to improve the abdominal contour and approximates the “six-pack” muscles in the midline to tighten them, while also smoothing out the abdomen’s shape and contour. To explore your options, visit a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in these areas to further discuss the possibilities See ad for Dr. Flavia Davit on this page. so that you can enjoy the “new you!” n Fall 2020
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Health & Wellness Guide
Independent Living at Asbury Heights
GOLF Historic
Discover a variety of Independent Living options including spacious apartments, new Garden Apartments, carriage homes, and off-campus luxury apartments. For more information or to schedule a tour call 412-571-5133.
Mt. Lebanon Golf Course
"Country Club Conditions At Public Course Rates"
1000 Pine Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15234 412-561-9761 • www.mtlebanon.org
Cataract Surgery
700 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon asburyheights.org Asbury Heights complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
Enhance Your Social Life
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens within Socialization for older adults is an important element in healthy agthe eye. Mostly all of us will get cataracts as we age. Cataract ing. For a variety of reasons, maintaining a social schedule can become difficult formation is usually a gradual process and vision changes can as we age. Independent living communities provide a wide range of activities be subtle. Common symptoms include blurred or dim vision, and opportunities to build new friendships and stay active. There are numerous sensitivity to light with glare, seeing halos, difficulty with night benefits of socialization. vision, and needing brighter light for reading. Often, the pre- • Prevents loneliness and isolation. Isolation is a precipitating factor for depres2148_SRLIV516216_ah_pc_upper_st_clair_today_ad_3.625x4.875_b.indd 1 look forward to and being surrounded by scription of your glasses change frequently, with diminishing sion in older adults. Having activities to improvements with each change. friends and staff who care about your well-being curbs the feeling of loneliness Ophthalmologists recommend a comprehensive eye exam to and avoids depression. have your visual acuity measured and your eyes (pupils) dilated. • Improves physical health. Many independent living communities offer fitA special microscope called a slit lamp is used to view and grade ness programs to maintain physical health. Many of these programs focus on your cataract. You will be evaluated for other eye diseases, as mobility and can be customized to reflect each person’s abilities and goals. well, including glaucoma or macular degeneration. • Improves mental health. Neurobic programs exercise the mind and help to The decision to proceed with cataract surgery is based on how reduce the risk of dementia. An active brain improves mental health. much the cataract interferes with your vision and daily activities. • Gives a sense of purpose and belonging. Many activities are focused on helpThere is usually no rush, but the surgery can become more uring others. Not only does your participation help others, in the process you gent if, for example, you fail to have adequate vision for driving. are also helping yourself by creating a sense of purpose and belonging. Fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most • Increases self-confidence and self-esteem. When you learn something new effective procedures. Typically, it is an outpatient procedure done and master it, you feel a sense of pride and your confidence is boosted. Having under light intravenous (IV) sedation. Through microscopic activities readily available gives you opportunities to learn new things. incisions, your cloudy natural lens is emulsified with ultrasonic • Helps develop a spiritual connection. Connecting with a community that energy and is replaced with a clear artificial lens. After surgery, celebrates diversity of faith is important. your vision should significantly improve over the next few days, • Encourages new friendships. Moving to an independent living community as long as you use the prescribed post-surgical eye drops. provides an opportunity to forge friendships, while maintaining those you've An ophthalmologist will meet with you for a cataract evaluahad for life. tion, guiding you toward the most appropriate option for which • Improves overall quality of life. When you no longer have the stress of home you may qualify. Typically, the surgery takes only maintenance, a weight is lifted. You can become active doing the things you minutes and you leave without a stitch or patch. The want to do. Your busy lifestyle takes on a whole new meaning, as your socialimprovement can be life-changing! n ization increases and your burdens of responsibility decrease. n
For more information about cataracts and cataract surgery, contact St. Clair Hospital at 412-572-6121. 58
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Learn more about Asbury Heights by contacting John Komisary, Director of Marketing, at 412-571-5133 or at komisaryjr@upmc.edu. See ad on this page.
General Election—Tuesday, November 3, 2020 Polls Open 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
Monday, October 19, 2020 is Voter Registration Deadline Date. (Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)
If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, 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 2710.
USC
2020 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Holiday Collection Date Labor Day............................... Thursday, September 10 and Friday, September 11 Thanksgiving.......................... Wednesday, November 25 and Friday, November 27
2020 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 24, 31; November 7, 14, 21; December 5.
Fall 2020
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Township Commissioners
Township Administration
Mark D. Christie President Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 2021* Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Daniel R. Paoly Vice President At-Large
Mark S. Mansfield Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration
Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2021*
Dante R. Plutko, Jr. Ward 1
Mark P. Romito Director of Finance
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-389-5187 2023*
Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development
Pamela L. Enck Ward 2 Day 412-831-9000 2021*
George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works
Christian Gmiter Director of Library
Copyright © M&M Photography
Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2023*
Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2023*
Rex A. Waller At-Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-5085 2023*
To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions. Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski......................... 2160 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield.................................. 2190 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton.................................. 2380 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito....................................... 2180 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni..................................... 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development George Kostelich, Jr................................ 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter.................................... 2470 Director of Library Paul Besterman....................................... 6560 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services
*Date indicates expiration of term.
www.twpusc.org All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings 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. 60
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Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services
Other Services Police–Administration...............412-833-1113 Tri-Community South EMS Administration...........................412-831-3710 USC Volunteer Fire Department Administration...........................412-835-0660 Animal Control.........................412-833-7500 Community & Recreation Center...................412-221-1099 Cable 7.......................................412-831-1030 Emergency– Police, Fire, EMS....................412-833-7500
2020 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. Fall 2020
Board of Commissioners’ Meetings April 6, 2020
May 4, 2020
Approximately 1 person attended.
No public attended.
Recognition • Commissioner Christie read a Proclamation honoring Helen Palascak, Department Director of the Library upon her retirement after 23 years of service to the Township. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 2-10 Re. PLC19-1301–Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code entitled “Zoning” to add conditional uses in the SB–Special Business Zoning District. • Adopted Bill No. 6-20 Re. PLC20-0001–Frosty Valley Professional Building–Amended Tentative and Final Approval. • Adopted Resolution No. 1685 authorizing the proper Township officials to execute all documents with regard to the acquisition of 1625 Painters Run Road. • Adopted Resolution No. 1686 authorizing the disposal of various Township records in accordance with the Municipal Records Retention and Disposition Schedule referenced in Chapter 11.7 of the Township Code. • Approved the March 2020 Bill Sheet Approval of Contracts • Jeffrey Associates................................................. $48,658 Indianola, PA Clubhouse Playground Safety Surface • Lone Pine Construction, Inc............................... $48,645 Bentleyville, PA Brush Run Pump Station–Purchase and Installation of Watertight Flood Gates • State Pipe Services, Inc....................................... $153,825 Cranberry Township, PA Spot Lining and Manhole Rehabilitation Services • Jet Jack, Inc........................................................ $128,550 Oakdale, PA Manhole to Manhole Lining • H. E. Neumann Company................................. $488,036 Triadelphia, WV C&RC HVAC Rooftop Replacement
Recognitions • Commissioner Christie read a Proclamation recognizing May 17–23, 2020, as National Emergency Medical Services Week in Upper St. Clair with the theme “EMS STRONG: Ready Today. Preparing for Tomorrow.” • Commissioner Plutko read a Proclamation recognizing USCHS Boys’ Swim Team member Josh Matheny for his first place win at the PIAA championships in the 100yard breaststroke. • Commissioner Plutko read a Certificate of Achievement recognizing USCHS Girls’ Swim Team member Taylor Connors for her first place win at the WPIAL championships in the 200-yard freestyle. • Commissioner Orchowski read a Certificate of Achievement recognizing USCHS Indoor Track and Field team member Isaac Kane for his first place win at the WPIAL championships in the 60-meter sprint and the 200-meter dash. The Board • Adopted Resolution No. 1687 authorizing the appropriate Township officials to execute the Reimbursement and Maintenance Agreement for Intersection and Pedestrian Improvements on State Route 19. • Approved April 2020 Bill Sheet.
June 1, 2020
No public attended.
The Board • Approved May 2020 Bill Sheet.
Accessibility Coordinators
The Township of Upper St. Clair has five accessibility coordinators to further enhance all visitors’ access to Township facilities, parks, trails, and programs. The accessibility link is found on the Township’s homepage under Quick Links and will take the visitor to detailed accessibility information. Currently, the Township of Upper St. Clair’s accessibility coordinators are • Jeremy Lemley, Buildings/Grounds Administrator (for all Township buildings): 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 • Ed Poljak, (for Township website and phone system): 412-831-9000 • Christian Gmiter, Director of Library: 412-831-9000, ext. 2240 • Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator: 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 • Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services (for all recreation activities): 412-831-9000, ext. 6560
Roundabout Meet USC
Following years of investigation and pursuit of funding sources for improvements at the intersection of McLaughlin Run, Lesnett, and McMillan Roads, construction work started this past spring. As identified in both the current and past Township Comprehensive Plans, Upper St. Clair staff has diligently sought the upgrade of this intersection. While initially identified for a traditional intersection enhancement to include signal improvements and turn lanes, PennDOT developed and applied a unique traffic solution for the region—a roundabout. Supported by traffic studies and funding sources from the commonwealth, improvements at the intersection of state-owned McLaughlin Run, Lesnett, and McMillan Roads are underway. After analyzing options and working with legislators to secure state funding, PennDOT determined a roundabout was the best approach. The traffic improvements were further made possible by the work of former State Representative John Maher to secure state funding for the entire project. PennDOT provided a number of reasons why a roundabout is the superior option to a traditional intersection at this location, including: • Results in fewer and lower speed accidents, which reduce the number and severity of crashes. • Has a lower construction cost. • Has fewer business impacts. Left turn stand-by lanes would limit the U.S. Post Office and Pinebridge Commons drive entrances to only right turns in and out of and from and to Lesnett Road. • Has less right-of-way land impacts. A “total take”—land acquisition
Construction improvement to include roundabout
and purchase involving a subdivision and deed—is required for leftturn stand-by lanes. • Has fewer utility relocation impacts. • Accommodates more traffic than a conventional intersection. • Limits vehicle idling and is better for the environment. By working in quadrants, PennDOT contractors intend to construct the roundabout while maintaining traffic through the intersection over the duration of the project. The contractors also plan to implement accelerated bridge construction techniques, so replacing the bridge on Lesnett Road will happen in one weekend rather than phasing construction. Access to both Pinebridge Commons and the U.S. Post Office will be available at all times during construction. The Upper St. Clair roundabout will be a single lane and may be different from dual-lane roundabouts some may be more accustomed to. PennDOT held a public meeting on the project in Upper St. Clair in September 2017. The project is expected to be completed in two years. n Fall 2020
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USC Recreation and Leisure Services www.twpusc.org 412-221-1099
C&RC Reopening After Closure After a long hiatus, the USC Recreation and Leisure Services Department happily welcomed back members to the C&RC! During the weeks of closure, staff worked on many building maintenance projects that typically would have waited until the scheduled week building closure in August. This year, however, these routine repairs and updates are already complete. In addition to scheduled maintenance projects, staff members spent much of their time preparing for reopening. Safety is, and always has been, our number one priority at the C&RC; and this particular health crisis reinforced its significance. Below are various completed projects and improved safety features: • Cleaned and disinfected all surfaces and fitness equipment. • Drained and cleaned the indoor pools and spa. • Repaired and updated selected areas of the indoor pool, including tile and concrete repair, netting replacement, and painting of the pool bottom. • Performed maintenance on pool mechanical systems. • Prepared the outdoor pool and surrounding area for reopening. • Refinished the gym floors. • Cleaned and sanitized all carpeting. • Painted the indoor facility. • Upgraded to LED lighting throughout the facility. • Rearranged facility furniture and fitness equipment to accommodate social distancing. • Replaced all cleaning solutions with Apter Disinfectant. • Replaced all fitness wipes with ERC Performance wipes, a stronger disinfectant than the previous brand. • Added more hand-washing and sanitizing stations throughout the building. • Placed directional markings and signs throughout the building to promote social distancing and intended traffic flow. • Added foot pulls to doors that could not be kept open on their own. During this situation, we wholeheartedly thank our members and residents. Your patience, understanding, and willingness to adapt to a new set of safety guidelines is greatly appreciated. Clearly, you have the best interest of our community in mind, and for that we are especially grateful. n
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May message
June message
For more information about any Older Adult programming, contact the C&RC at 412-221-1099.
Seniors at Leisure USC Township Silver Card Offered by USC Township to residents age 62 or older. Proof of age and residency required at time of application. Card admits holder to the Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, specified Community & Recreation Center 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.
March message
USCSD Gold Card Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission. To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
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ACCESS and Port Authority Transportation for Senior Citizens Applications for the Pennsylvania Senior Transit ID and ACCESS transportation are available at the C&RC. Application must be made in person at the C&RC during operating hours. Proof of age (65 and older) is required. Additionally, proof of Allegheny County residency is required for ACCESS. The Port Authority will indefinitely continue to accept blue or yellow Pennsylvania Senior Transit ID cards.
Christian Gmiter Fills Position as USC Library Director
Julia Roeschenthaler, USCHS Junior, USC TODAY Intern Even after working in libraries for 26 years, Christian Gmiter still brings the excitement and enthusiasm of an intern on the first day of the job. In March of 2020, shortly before the beginning of national shutdowns because of COVID-19, Christian filled the position of library director for Upper St. Clair Township. He considers it a “once in a lifetime opportunity.” While Christian has not been the director for terribly long, he already has a clear vision for the library, building upon the foundation established by previous director Helen Palascak. “When Helen retired, I said that I’m not looking to change anything that you did right away, I just want to continue the momentum.” Some of Christian’s goals as director include continuing to foster and encourage the recreational and scholarly pursuits of the community through maintaining relevant and timely collections and exciting programs for all ages. The ultimate goal is to have the library continue to be a positive presence in our community.” In furtherance of advancing Helen’s fine work, Christian also emphasized his belief in the importance of the continued delivery of quality customer service within the library space. “Everybody is your patron or your customer, no matter if they live inside or outside of the Township. Anyone that visits the library—patrons and staff alike—deserve the best customer service possible.” Although Christian has not been able to interact with many library visitors in light of the library’s temporary closure, he has demonstrated his incredible excitement for the reopening, especially in regard to having the opportunity to become better acquainted with his new staff. Nevertheless, Christian acknowledges that in the meantime, the library will take every precaution to do its part in protecting the community. “Right now, we want to take everyone’s safety into consideration. We want to make sure that we do everything the right way and do it safely. That is our first goal, no matter what.” With so many drastic changes occurring in such a short period of time,
businesses, as well as entire communities, have been forced to take unprecedented measures to protect residents. The unique circumstances at hand have also forced organizations to develop new approaches to programs and practices, and the Upper St. Clair Township Library is, of course, no exception. When questioned about potential changes in future programs at the library as a result of COVID-19, Christian shared his view that the delivery of information, specifically with regard to programs, could change significantly. He mentioned the measures that libraries such as his previous employer, the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, are taking to continue programs despite the difficult circumstances. “They [the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh] have started doing some book talks, book reviews, and children’s programming on their social media feeds. I’d like to do something like that here, on our website and social media, on Upper St. Clair TV, and via video conferencing. We have all of this unique media to take advantage of to reach out to people who don’t come to the library or to residents who have moved out of the city or state. It’s a way to engage people beyond the radius of just USC Township or this region.” Engaging residents beyond a township in which a library is located is nothing new for Christian. While serving as library services manager at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s East Liberty branch, Christian worked with a number of neighborhoods and municipalities in a service area that covered a large part of Pittsburgh’s East End, and the Upper St. Clair Township Library similarly attracts patrons from all over the area.
In one notable variance between jobs, Christian shared his view about the difference in responsibility between his current position and his previous occupation. “It’s still a leadership position, so I think people look to you for guidance, for the answers. That hasn’t changed, but I know with this job comes more responsibility such as budgeting, data collection and statistical research, and collection development or ordering of materials and online resources.” The increase in responsibility does not seem to concern Christian, nor does the challenge of working with a bigger team. He expressed excitement about his new team and was quick to note just how uplifting working with the USC Library has been. “I love coming to a positive work environment, and I try to let that be reflected in my management style. Although my interactions with patrons have been minimal, everyone has been extremely welcoming to me.” Christian later mentioned that he was struck by a sense of kindness and openness when he met the USC Library staff. The experience further confirmed that he was making an excellent decision in pursuing the position of USC Township’s library director. While it is difficult to assess how coronavirus-related measures will affect libraries in the coming years, with a director that is both experienced and enthusiastic, it is clear that the USC Township Library will excel. Christian described the library as a “ray of light in the community” and with the amount of cooperation and determination that is shown by the staff, it will be no surprise if that light reaches not only Upper St. Clair, but the greater Pittsburgh area, as well. n
USC Township Library Hours Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, 1–5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24/7 Closed summer Sundays through Labor Day Closed Monday, September 7 (Labor Day) Fall 2020
Due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, continue to check the library’s website for hours of operation.
412-835-5540 www.twpusc.org UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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From the Director’s Desk Christian Gmiter, Library Director
Dear Residents and Library Patrons, I hope this article finds you in good health and spirits. This year certainly has been an unprecedented time for us all given the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus has affected our lives in so many ways—and libraries across the country, including ours, have been forced to adjust operations. The mission statement of the Upper St. Clair Township Library is to provide for the educational, informational, and recreational needs of our community. Throughout the past six months, we have been challenged with how to offer these services to our patrons as we emerge from a time of change and uncertainty and return to a “new normal.” While the pillars of our mission statement have never changed, the ways in which we delivered service did. “Grab-and-go” kits for the library’s After being closed for almost three months due to mandates from the Office of Commonwealth youngest patrons Libraries, we rolled out curbside service in early June. This allowed us to reconnect with our patrons and residents to provide materials to meet their recreational needs and scholarly pursuits. Members of our staff were met with smiles, thank yous, and “welcome back” greetings from patrons, as they received their book delivery orders. To me, a library is a pillar of any community, and it is clear that our library is held in high esteem by patrons and residents alike, for whose support we are most grateful. Although the circumstances of our closure were not ideal, the expressions of affection and excitement when we returned meant a lot. Our staff was eager to welcome you back to the library and happy to see old friends and new faces (albeit in masks). In addition to this past summer’s Curbside Delivery Service, our exceptional team of Children’s staff put together “grab-and-go” craft and activity kits for kids that were placed on the fences along the playground adjacent to the library parking lot each morning. On most mornings, the fence was barren within a matter of hours! Three hundred kits were produced each week. Kits were also used to promote the library’s Summer Reading Program. Again, due to the state mandates, all of the Summer Reading badges and prizes were earned online this year. Many children and teens participated in the reading program and they impressed us with their technological savviness and resilience! Gradually, after the curbside service was firmly in place (and still in effect, but scaled back for those who didn’t wish to come into the building), the library began to open up in stages. The library and Township administration met regularly to discuss ideas as to how this could be done safely without putting staff or patrons at risk. When it was all said and done, we accomplished it as a team. While certain measures of precaution were put in place to establish social distancing guidelines, including limiting chairs at tables and the addition of Plexiglass barriers at service points, our library proved to be the same library that has existed in this community since 1957. It just looked a little different at times. Our mission, however, stayed the same. Thank you for your patience in waiting for us to resume operations. An abrupt change in service is by no means the standard or ideal prototype, but I know that we have learned from it. As previously mentioned, with libraries across the nation shuttered due to the pandemic, many librarians and staff capitalized on their creativity and developed new and inventive ways to reach out to patrons. Our library would prove to be no different. We have, for instance, been relying on USC Cable TV in order to provide programming for kids. We have used our social media feeds to spotlight collections and to provide book reviews. Many presenters have taken to Zoom and other video conferencing methods to conduct their programs. Our patrons have navigated the sometimes-challenging methods for downloading eBooks and eAudio onto their phones, tablets, and computers with confidence. Despite innovations brought on intentionally or by necessity due to social isolation and distancing, we will always offer the same friendly and reliable library service that you have come to expect and enjoy. I began my role as USC Library director in May, and I am tremendously honored and thrilled to work for such a great community. you haven’t done soat already, stop make by and say hello to me the next time you visit the library. I am eager to meet you! n Your If donation and purchases the Book please Sale Corner it possible
Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.
for the Friends to sustain the library’s improvements and programs. There are several ways to contribute: • Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or Juvenile Circulation Desk • Mail your check with the attached form to the library • donation Visit our website, http://www.twpusc.org/library/friends, donate online Your and purchases at the Book Sale Corner make to it possible
Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.
for the Friends to sustain the library’s improvements and programs. There are several ways to contribute: • Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or Juvenile Circulation Desk • Mail your check with the attached form to the library • Visit our website, http://www.twpusc.org/library/friends, to donate online
_________________________________________ Name _________________________________________ Address _________________________________________ _________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________ Email
By providing my email address, I agree to receive occasional updates from the Upper St. Clair Library. 64
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Working Hard to Meet Your Needs The staff of the kids and teen library are working hard to develop and adapt programming for the fall. Check the library’s website and social media platforms for up-to-date information about all library services.
Using the Upper St. Clair Library
Applying Online for a Library Card You can apply on line for a library card!
This card can be used to place holds, download books and movies, and access online databases provided by the Allegheny County Library Association. Currently this service is only for patrons over 18. If seeking a juvenile card please visit the Township Library. Do you already have a library card? Do you think you may already have a library card? Please contact or visit the Upper St. Clair Township Library to update your card for use.
Step 1 Please visit https://librarycatalog.einetwork.net/MyResearch/GetCard to begin your online library card registration. Step 2 Complete the online form. Step 3 Check the “I am not a robot” and click the ACCEPT button. Success! You will receive a library barcode that you can use to utilize online resources such as downloadable books or databases. You can also use this barcode to put library materials on hold. Visit the Upper St. Clair Township Library to get a physical card, pick up your holds, or browse the library’s collections.
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Using the Upper St. Clair Library
How to Put a Book On Hold You Will Need: Your Library Card Your 4-digit pin. Don’t have a pin? You can call the library to create one.
Step 1 Visit the library catalog at www.librarycatalog.einetwork.net to search for the book you are looking for. Step 2 Type in the title of the item you are looking for in the search box and click on the magnifying glass to complete your search. Step 3 Click or tap on the HOLD box to place your request. You will be asked to log in with your library card number and pin. Step 4 Choose your pickup library (Upper St. Clair) and click or tap the OKAY button. Success! Your item will be sent to the USC Library, and you will receive a notice when it has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Using the Upper St. Clair Library
Using Libby You Will Need: Your library card and a smartphone or tablet computer.
Step 1 Download the Libby app from the App Store, Google Play, or wherever you get your apps. Open the app once it has downloaded. Step 2 Tap “Hi!” in the blue circle. Step 3 Tap “Find My Library.” Your device’s location services will automatically find a list of libraries located around you. If the service does not find the library you typically use, tap the “no” option and select “I’ll search For A Library Instead” on the next screen. You can search for a library using the name or zip code of the library. After you search, select your library! Step 4
You can begin browsing the OverDrive collection.
Did You Find Something You’d Like to Borrow? Tap on the book’s cover. Then, Tap “Borrow.” This will take you to a sign in screen. Enter your library card number and tap “sign in”. Tap “Borrow” once more. You can either keep browsing or go to your shelf and begin listening or reading your loaned item. You can toggle back and forth from your shelf to the browsing library by tapping on either word at the bottom of your screen. Happy Reading! 66
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Using the Upper St. Clair Library
Mobile Printing Service Use PrinterOn to print documents at the Upper St. Clair Township Library.
Using a Desktop or Laptop Computer Please visit https://www.printeron.com/usct/print to access PrinterOn. Step 1 Select Black & White or Color printer. Enter your email address. Upload your file or enter the URL you would like to print. Step 2 Click on the printer icon. Visit the USC Township Library to pick up your prints. Black & White Printing - $.15 /page
-
Color Printing - $.50 /page
Using the Upper St. Clair Library
Mobile Printing Service Use PrinterOn to print documents at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. Using a Tablet or iPad Download the PrinterOn app using the App Store, Google Play, or wherever you get your apps. Open the PrinterOn app once it has downloaded.
Step 1 Tap on the icon of what you would like to print. Then, when your files appear, select your item for printing. Step 2 Select a printer by tapping on the prompt at the bottom of the screen. Search by tapping the magnifying glass and typing Upper St. Clair Township. Select printer, and tap the green print button. Step 3 Enter your email address and tap the checkmark in the upper right-hand corner. Pick up your print at the USC Library!
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UPPER ST. CLAIR POLICE DEPARTMENT 2020 CITIZENS’ POLICE ACADEMY A special opportunity for adults (must be at least 21 years old) who live, work, or conduct business in Upper St. Clair. The Upper St. Clair Police Department is hosting a Citizens’ Police Academy. Classes will meet on Thursdays, beginning October 1 and ending November 19, 2020. Classes will be held at the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department, 7–9:30 p.m. The course syllabus includes instruction and scenario-based training on various aspects of law enforcement and public safety.
Objectives and Overview
• An overview of the criminal justice system, local and global. • Active shooter and crisis management in schools and the workplace. • Cybercrimes and identity theft issues and prevention. • Local ordinances, crimes, and vehicle code issues. • The United States Constitution and citizens’ rights. • Firearm safety, use of force, and self-defense. • Patrol procedures, traffic stops, speed enforcement, and officer safety. • Criminal, drug, and gang investigations. • Domestic crimes, custody disputes, and missing children. • The role of the District Attorney and the District Court. • Local crimes, current investigations, programs, and public issues. There is no fee to attend the Police Academy. If you are interested in this program, complete and submit the application to the Upper St. Clair Police Department, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. Questions? Contact Police Administration, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., at 412-833-1113.
Upper St. Clair Police Department 2020 Citizens’ Police Academy Application Name: (last, first, middle)_ __________________________________________ Date of Birth: _____________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Cell Phone:_______________________________________________________ Home Phone: _____________________________________________________ Email Address:____________________________________________________ Employer:________________________________________________________ Business Phone:___________________________________________________ Have you ever been arrested?_______________________________________ If yes, please explain:_ _____________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Signature:_ _______________________________________________________ Date:_____________________________________________________________ The decision on class participants is up to the discretion of the USC Police Department. 68
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Home Heating Tips
No matter what type of device you use to heat your home, making sure your heating devices and/or systems are in good working order is an important part of learning some fall fire safety tips. Many things can go wrong with heating equipment during the spring and summer months. Verify that everything you need to keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter is in good working order before you experience the first cold snap of the season. Central Heating System Safety Tips • Get your central heating system cleaned, inspected, and serviced by a certified HVAC (heating, venting, and air conditioning) contractor every year before using it. • If you have a gas heater, assure that you have an adequate number of fully functioning carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home. Space Heater Safety Tips • Make sure that space heaters are surrounded by at least three feet of empty space. • Never place clothing or any other objects on a space heater to dry. • Do not place space heaters near furniture or draperies. • Turn space heaters off when you leave the house or go to bed. • Avoid storing any combustible items near space heaters. Fireplace Safety Tips • Get your chimney inspected every year to assure that it is in safe working order. • Hire a chimney sweep to clean out your chimney every fall. • Repair any cracks in fireplace walls. • Use fireplace screens to keep sparks and fire debris inside the fireplace. • Do not use gasoline to start a fire in a fireplace. • Never leave a fire unattended. • Make sure that combustible materials are not stored within three feet of your fireplace. • For natural gas fireplaces, get all connections and lines inspected before use each season. • Remember that outdoor fireplaces can be just as dangerous as indoor units, and observe all safety precautions when using them. Fire Safety Tips for Holiday Decorations • Do not use candles in Halloween jack-o-lanterns; flashlights are much safer. • Make sure that children’s costumes are made with fire retardant materials. • Use only fire-retardant holiday decorations. • Verify that all holiday lights and extension cords have been tested by an organization such as Factory Mutual (FM) or Underwriters Laboratory (UL). n
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We Coped.
Quarantine Through the Eyes of USCHS Students
Bria Zegarelli, USCHS Junior, USC TODAY Intern When coronavirus worsened at the start of 2020, curiosity about the situation escalated in one particular group of people: students. Once the sickness became more prominent, my peers and I waited to see whether school would be cancelled, and we were left with a mix of emotions once school closed. With the goal of learning how the average teenager felt during quarantine, I conducted a survey of students at the high school to see what they thought about the experience. According to the survey, most students were excited for a break when they assumed school’s cancellation would last a few short weeks, but were devastated when school was permanently cancelled for the entire remaining school year. Online school was a difficult adjustment for USC students. The high schoolers said they enjoyed the relaxed schedule and less stress, but disliked virtual learning overall. When asked about their least favorite aspects of online learning, the students had similar responses: decreased interactions with friends and teachers, no motivation, and too much busywork. High schoolers had trouble focusing on homework—many admitted rushing through assignments—and wanted virtual classes where they could ask face-to-face questions. However, students loved working more quickly and efficiently. On average, they spent two hours doing online school homework, but four hours on regular homework. Most high schoolers said the quarantine’s worst aspects were boredom, uncertainty, and not seeing friends or extended family. Seniors were disappointed that there was no specific closure to end their high school years, but felt grateful for extra time with family before college. Also, USC’s senior parade made them feel happier. One senior wrote, “It was so nice to see people who care about me and are proud of me. It was really heartwarming.” When asked about their fears surrounding the quarantine, numerous teenagers said they were nervous that things would not return to normal soon. In fact, every incoming USC freshman said that not having USCHS move-up day scared them about starting high school because they felt unprepared for the change. Students also explained that they had increases in depression and anxiety because two dominant sources of happiness—extracurriculars and friends—were very limited. Students said they contacted friends through Facetime and texting, but explained that interacting through only a screen for such a long time was extremely difficult, especially after being accustomed to seeing others in person every day at school. Students coped by exercising, watching movies, writing, reading, baking, listening to music, and enjoying family time, as well as reminding themselves that everyone else was feeling the same way. Once Upper St. Clair entered the green phase, teenagers enjoyed activities, which included walks, bike riding, and pickleball. Students were thankful for laid-back schedules and more sleep during quarantine, but explained that life felt surreal. Sophomores said they experienced delays with obtaining licenses or permits due to 70
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We Helped. the DMV being closed. High schoolers who searched for jobs had difficulty finding organizations that were hiring because businesses were struggling economically. Students who were already employed said they could not work the schedules they wanted. Also, juniors and seniors explained that choosing colleges was more difficult because they could not visit schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; campuses. A popular pastime of high schoolers is social media. Students said social media made quarantine more bearable and helped them be entertained. Almost all of the surveyed students said TikTok, a popular app where people post funny videos, was one of their favorite apps during quarantine. However, students explained that before USC was in the green phase, they were annoyed to look online and see that some people socialized instead of social distancing. Additionally, students said they felt like they were having a second summer since quarantine already felt like one. Students were less excited about summer break and thought it might be boring, but hoped that they could travel, obtain jobs, prepare for the SAT, and swim. Some also planned to take online classes or online gym. Mainly, however, students wanted time with friends and family. Whether USC students liked or disliked quarantine, they all said they learned more about themselves. For instance, some extroverted high schoolers learned that they actually liked some time alone, while several introverted students realized they needed some socialization to be happy. Countless students also learned how strong their work ethics were after staying determined with school, even though grading was more lenient. Overall, USC students valued their relationships so much more after quarantine, and explained that it taught them to be better people who do not take school, health, or perceived normalcy for granted. n
Shown are various photos of USC residents and students enduring different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Photos by Bria Zegarelli
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We Coped. No Ordinary Day in May
Steven DeNoon, George Pashel, Jay Sukernek, Mandy Thomas On a sunny Saturday, it’s not surprising to see the parking lot of South Hills Village packed with cars. Moms shop for graduation gifts. Teenagers hang out. And a bit of retail therapy never hurts after college finals. But this particular Saturday was like no other. Beginning several hours before the More than 950 cars visited the May food distribution event. scheduled 11 a.m. start, cars started appearing, neatly lining up between the What is truly extraordinary about this When the need in the South Hills carefully placed pylons and ribbons of “caution” tape. An elderly couple from particular day, however, was the partner- grew more apparent, SHIM leveraged its Bethel Park, along with their grown son ship and cooperation of so many leaders partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh who was there to help them, didn’t know in our community to make it happen. Community Food Bank to get more food what to expect. A South Park man didn’t The leadership and police of Upper St. to vulnerable residents. “We’re extremely mind the wait, as it had been so long since Clair and Bethel Park created a masterful proud to partner with SHIM to help those he’d been out of the house. And a woman plan, which was skillfully executed to in the South Hills who are struggling,” from Upper St. Clair in a mini-van broke keep cars and neighboring traffic running said Lisa Scales, president and CEO of down in tears because she’d found herself smoothly. The management team at Simon the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food in an unfamiliar, scary place: navigating a Properties wholeheartedly agreed to host Bank. “The pandemic has affected people mass food distribution to ensure her two this type of event, as they are thoughtful on all levels and of all backgrounds. We neighbors in good times and in bad. The are inspired by organizations like SHIM kids wouldn’t go hungry. Yes, Saturday, May 16, was one for the community volunteers who spent six that are guiding their communities record books. More than 950 carloads hours on a Saturday lifting boxes also through the fear and uncertainty of this of neighbors and more than 70 volun- cheerfully provided encouraging words to crisis.” For SHIM, the South Hills Village teers gathered with SHIM and Greater the folks arriving in the queue, as we all distribution was a full-circle nod to its Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to need a little help now and then. “Suburban poverty has been a grow- roots, which began more than 50 years ago do something that had never been done before: provide a large-scale mass food ing concern in the South Hills for some when the organization began as “South distribution to South Hills families at a time, and this pandemic made it worse,” Hills Ministry in the Mall” in the popular said Jim Guffey, executive director of shopping center. Since then, SHIM has time when they could really use it. You may think that amongst the SHIM. “Many people don’t realize that adapted to the evolving needs of the comtop-tier school districts, well-manicured prosperous communities are also facing munity it serves. To the carloads of our neighbors, we lawns, and trendy boutiques and restau- hardships. This crisis doesn’t care what say “thank you” for coming out and raisrants, hunger wouldn’t be an issue in zip code you live in. It’s universal.” Even before the pandemic, the South ing your hand to help your family. We do the South Hills. Truth is, it’s always been hiding in the shadows of our Pittsburgh Hills was grappling with the toll of rising what we do because of you. Here’s hoping suburban neighborhoods, as evidenced food insecurity. SHIM’s three food pan- this parking lot looks a bit different a year by the growth of South Hills Interfaith tries—located at SHIM Center in Bethel from now. n Movement’s (SHIM) three food pan- Park, Prospect Park in Whitehall, and SHIM is a human services organization tries during the past few years. But the Baldwin United Presbyterian Church— dedicated to improving the lives of people in need across Pittsburgh’s South Hills. See COVID-19 pandemic brought hunger to provided more than 501,000 pounds of neighbors helping neighbors for yourself in families who’ve never faced it before. New- food and personal care items for more than video, photos, and stories at https://shimcares. ly unemployed. Temporarily furloughed. 3500 South Hills residents in 2019. The org/who-we-are/together-in-tough-times. Home together with more mouths to feed. need has continued to grow. Since March, For more information, visit SHIM’s general when SHIM began offering drive-through website at shimcares.org. For those who want pantries in lieu of its shop-through option, to make a monetary donation to support it has seen a 28% increase in people seekSHIM’s work can do so at shimcares.org/ ing help with basic needs, including food give. Anyone in need of urgent assistance can and financial assistance. SHIM’s pantries contact SHIM’s main office at 412-854-9120 and select the extension for the appropriate served 745 households and nearly 2400 staff person. Authors of this article—Steven individuals in April alone, with nearly DeNoon, George Pashel, Jay Sukernek, and half of all visitors using the service for Mandy Thomas—serve on SHIM’s board of the first time. directors and are USC residents.
Volunteers help to pass out the pre-packaged boxes. 72
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We Helped. Student Artists Use Talents to Help Others Three USCHS rising seniors are using their artistic talents to assist families who have been negatively affected by COVID-19. Eileen Guo, Kathy Li, and Manjiri Palayekar created Art for Joy to raise money for the Greater Washington County Food Bank. For a donation of $10 or more, Eileen, Kathy, or Manjiri will create a custom digital art commission. The cost of the commission varies based on the complexity of the drawing. All monies will be donated to the food bank. “During this quarantine, I felt the urge to do my share, no matter the size, to benefit my community,” said Eileen. “I am so grateful that I do not need to worry about where my next meal will come from. Therefore, I wanted to put my free time at home to great use.” The students are motivated to help individuals who have been affected by COVID-19 because of resource strain. “We chose the Greater Washington County Food Bank and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank as the beneficiaries because we know that they are local food banks. However, we found it important that they still have a range large enough to make a notable impact,” said Eileen. “The food banks help the community significantly. A donation of a single dollar can be used to purchase $5 worth of food.” All three student artists have previously earned Gold and Silver Keys from Paint collage the national Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition and appreciate this opportunity to use their skills to benefit others. “I am truly grateful For more information, as well as samples of artwork, visit to do what I love and help others at the same time, and I hope that I artforjoyfundraiser.com or @artforjoy.fundraiser on Instagram. can use my skill to benefit people in need,” said Eileen. n
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We Coped. The Day the Music Didn’t Die Paul K. Fox
Where were you when those highly anticipated, but dreaded, messages about cancellations and the spread of coronavirus came down from school and government officials? USCSD Superintendent John Rozzo: March 12, 2020–We continue to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health organizations. The latest guidance suggests that organizations limit large events to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. As a result, many higher education institutions and even professional sports have suspended operations in order to help contain the spread of the virus. With this guidance in mind, the Upper St. Clair School District is instituting new measures intended to preserve the continuation of the District’s core educational services for as long as possible, while safeguarding the health and well-being of our community. As such, most events held in our school facilities/properties beyond the school day are canceled/postponed. Effective immediately and until at least Tuesday, April 14, 2020, all events for permitholders are canceled. Office of the Pennsylvania Governor: March 13, 2020–Today, Governor Tom Wolf announced that all K–12 Pennsylvania schools will be closed for ten business days, effective Monday, March 16. March 19, 2020–Governor Wolf ordered all non-life-sustaining businesses in Pennsylvania to close to support the suppression efforts against COVID-19. March 23, 2020–This afternoon, Governor Tom Wolf issued a stayat-home order for residents of Pennsylvania’s hardest-hit areas, including Allegheny County, to help combat the spread of COVID-19. April 9, 2020–Continuing his efforts to protect the health and safety of students and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Tom Wolf today announced that all schools will remain closed for the remainder of the 2019–20 academic year. Bam… and just like that, everything closed! The pandemic moved fast. It hit all of us unprepared. For example, when the USCHS spring musical completed its third stunning performance of Shrek, The Musical, student performers were told their second weekend of productions was cancelled. It took only days from the initial announcement “out of abundance of caution, after-school events are postponed…” to the entire state’s closure of brick and mortar schools, and the moment when USC activities, arts, and athletics went “dark.” The immediate effect? Suddenly, our kids were sent home for an extra-early spring break, hopefully remembering to take with them their textbooks and tech devices (as well as that old bag lunch with a banana stored in their locker) and the musicians retrieving their instruments and music. Trying to understand and respond to this world crisis (from a safe distance, of course), no one had a crystal ball to predict or even imagine the far-reaching effects and numerous unanswered questions and problems all of us faced in one way or another. Every music teacher I know cried out, “How do I reach out to my students to help them find alternative avenues for making music?” The challenge was thrust upon us to inspire our students, build on their musical momentum, promote daily practice, and stimulate their pursuit of individualized artistic enrichment and the self-motivation to reach for new musical goals. My first act as a community/youth director was to fire up my orchestra’s website and Facebook page. Using a free version of Mailchimp 74
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(an email marketing web program), we updated and distributed articles that included tips for music learning and problem solving; practice plans and a music diary; student leadership, teamwork, ensemble-playing, and comprehension; concert etiquette, references for college and other scholarships, and other various pep talks. In addition, we launched SHJO.clips, a low-tech, but hopefully effective, series of online music games, worksheets, sample recordings and Dan Rieker plays both trombone and cello for videos, practice excerpts, the South Hills Junior Orchestra. He earned a SHJO “clips award” for submission of his jazz music exercises, sight- trombone solo recording from a past USCHS reading and ear training jazz ensemble concert. assignments, and much more—a treasure trove of fun things-to-do! “Clips” stands for create, listen, inspire, practice, and share. Archives of both Fox’s Firesides and SHJO.clips are available by visiting https://paulfox.blog/foxs-firesides/ or http://www.shjo.org/ (look under “resources”). Peruse them yourself. You just might learn something new about music! My wife, Donna, immediately jumped into adapting videoconferencing apps for one-on-one sessions with her private string students. We both used one of these, Zoom, to check in with our SHJO players, held a membership reunion (a.k.a. socially distanced party), and even made plans for a virtual orchestra camp and online sectionals over the summer and fall months. Our players have their folders, and we hope to return to USCHS when given permission at some point in the future to perform the music programmed for this past spring season. In the USC School District, teacher-led remote instruction began April 2. It helped that most students in grades 5–12 were previously given a District-issued iPad or Chromebook. The professional staff used Canvas, a learning management system, along with Google Hangouts, to connect with their students and assign work. In addition, our very own visionary and highly adaptive USC music educators explored a variety of distance learning and music technology tools, including SmartMusic, MusicFirst, Chrome Music Lab, GarageBand, and YouTube. Thanks to them, meaningful experiences of musical enrichment were cultivated. Below are a few examples: • Elementary strings: Distribution of scales and repertoire via Quicktime videos and sheet music files, and review of YouTube demonstrations of string concert songs performed by other groups. • Elementary general music: Two music lessons per week, including Grades 1–4 activities for singing, playing instruments, and moving and listening critically to musical examples, and a Grade 2 virtual field trip to Heinz Hall with introductions to Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians. • Fort Couch Expressive Arts (music): Creation of a live playlist of memorable songs, a virtual tour of the Cincinnati Music Hall, a listening journal series of music by the decade beginning with the 50s, the application of Chrome Music Lab to arrange “The Theme
We Helped. from Star Wars,” and the exploration of GarageBand, a digital audio workstations platform that allows users to create music or podcasts on an iPad. • Fort Couch instrumental students: Implementation of the MusicFirst Classroom package of aural and music (written) theory exercises, units on “How to Practice” with researchbased strategies to improve performance and “Music Theory” lessons, reviewing understanding and performance of Major Key Signatures, completion of a nationally-recognized music assessment at the end of the school year, employment of the SmartMusic application for sight-reading as well as playing a weekly excerpt from the Wind Band literature, reflection on representative samples of Fort Couch concert music performed by notable middle school ensembles from across the country, and attendance to virtual sectional rehearsals via Google Hangouts. • High school choral students: Daily assignments of sight-singing and vocal exercises, recording of solo excerpts for self-assessment, survey of examples and benefits of warmup vocalises, Zoom rehearsals and Google Hangout chats with the choirs, viewings of a guest speaker series, including the performer of the lead role of “Dewey” in School of Rock and several opera singers, and work on the “Virtual Choir Project,” submitting digital solo performances of the spring concert’s finale. • High school concert and symphonic band students: Video critique of composer John Williams and his composition process for the Star Wars movies (May the Fourth Be with You), and guided practice using the learning tools and assessment features of Smartmusic. • High school jazz students: Guided practice using Smartmusic of a new piece each week from the jazz ensemble literature, performance of scales and chords in application of the written Modules in Music Theory, survey and reflections of historically significant jazz recordings, attendance of the Virtual Masterclasses at Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) and International Jazz Day All-Day Concert, completion of performance assessment rubrics for High School Jazz Concerts from the JALC Essentially Ellington Concert Series, virtual recording of The Pink Panther, featuring soloist/arranger Mike Tomaro, director of Jazz Studies at Duquesne University. • High school music technology students: Projects for using music to create emotion—fear, sadness, happiness—and the development of many creative examples. • High school guitar students: Historical analysis of the guitar, types of fretted instruments, and personal preferences via Google Slides.
USC resident David Lampe is an active member of SHJO and has learned how to play the bassoon on his own.
We learned lots of things about coping with enforced self-isolation and the enjoyment of remote experiences in the arts. When you cannot go to the venue, the venue comes to you! There are many virtual field trips available to transport us to museums, galleries, architectural “wonders of the world,” online films of Met operas and Broadway musicals, concerts, and recitals to provide much needed cultural enlightenment from the safety of our homes. (Visit my blog for direct “clickable” links to the following sites: https://paulfox.blog/2020/04/16/one-happilysolitary-retiree/.) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
British Museum, London Guggenheim Museum, New York National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC Musée d’Orsay, Paris National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Pergamon Museum, Berlin Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles Uffizi Gallery, Florence MASP, São Paulo National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City The Musée du Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, and the Cour Carrée National History Museum Women’s History Museum National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Catalog of Smithsonian Virtual Exhibits Architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater in Ohiopyle Encore presentations of the New York MET Playbill’s “15 Broadway Plays and Musicals You Can Watch from Home” Billboard’s Live Streams and Virtual Concerts Glamour’s “Every Artist Offering Free Online Concerts While You’re Stuck at Home” Free Classical Concerts Online from Classical MPR NPR’s List of Live Virtual Concerts to Watch During the Coronavirus Shutdown
In addition, I recently added these local Pennsylvania natural arts resources to help you get your music fix. • Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra “Extraordinary Measures” https:// pittsburghsymphony.org/pso_home/web/extraordinary-measures • Pittsburgh Opera “Intermezzo—a daily dose of opera” https://www. pittsburghopera.org/season/free-low-cost-events/intermezzovideos • Philadelphia Jazz Project http://www.philajazzproject.org/ • Virtual Philadelphia Orchestra https://www.philorch.org/performances/special-performances/virtual-philadelphia-orchestra/ Where did we initially turn to seek relief from our anxiety, uncertainty, and stress brought on by COVID-19? The arts! We sang and played instruments for the medical personnel, first responders, and front-line workers, as well as elderly family members who were sheltering-in-place at their nursing homes. Maintaining our sense of community and hopes for the future, we searched the Internet for YouTube parodies, “Brady Bunch-style” (squares) of virtual performances, online dancing lessons, Yo-Yo Ma, and other artists sharing their favorite songs of healing, and those soothing balcony or apartment block sing-a-longs. Recognizing the full impact and recent importance of music, we hope it will continue to be used to protect, sustain, and celebrate as we move into our future. Music is alive and well in USC, and I believe it will emerge with even more vitality on the other side! n
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We Coped. Quarantined, Not Isolated Haley Beardsley
Standard procedure. Mask on. Six feet apart. Do not even try
to get in my car. However, these regulations do not mean “no love.” Quarantine does not mean “isolation”—words that I’ve reminded myself of daily. Today, I can sit with my closest friends outside sipping our favorite coffees; however, we certainly were not sipping away in April. When Allegheny County was in the red and yellow phases, we all felt it. We all felt the tension and strain being placed on our relationships. Whether those relationships were between friends or partners, the underlying stress was unbearable. My best friend, Gabi, and I are inseparable. I do not mean that as an exaggeration. I believe at one point her mom asked, “Honey, doesn’t your mom miss seeing you?” However, my nearly unwelcome stay came to a halt when hanging around each other posed too high a risk to our beloved immune-compromised family members and relatives. For weeks, we relied on FaceTime, Zoom, texting, and phone calls to ask, “How was your day?” and say, “Wow, I miss you!” This story is not unique or unfamiliar. Everyone had to weigh the risk, and lessen their interactions. I remember late April, when COVID-19 was arguably at its peak. The weather in our area had just begun to break. As I pulled my car into my family’s driveway after an evening drive to maintain sanity, the stars were remarkable. It may have been the first time they so poetically revealed themselves that spring, and with the lessened emissions, they were beautifully clear in the night sky. I found a place to sit on my front lawn, and after a moment of gazing, I texted my friend group, aka “Scooby Gang,” asking them to take a peek at the night sky from their vantage point. All six responded, recognizing how stunning the sky truly was. While gazing, all of us pushed “play” on Yellow by Coldplay. The song instantly took me to endless memories of driving through the Fort Pitt tunnels, admiring the Pittsburgh skyline. I was simultaneously living vicariously through my past self, while soaking in my moment under the stars. Gazing at the same sky and listening to the same song without personally embracing my best friends, this was the closest moment in weeks where, together, we shared something special. Still, I felt isolated. Looking at and enjoying the beauty of the moment and how we were all connected like the constellations in the sky, the awful effects of the pandemic backdrop remained. I sat and worried. I fretted over what a real conversation would be like. I dreaded the idea of conversing with Gabi, when I should have been counting down the seconds until I sat on her familiar front stoop. What would a conversation be like with a peer or an adult, when for the past few weeks I had only talked to my one-year-old brother? How would I manage to carry on an adult conversation about the curve or the elections, when my interactions have mainly centered around my brother who could not even say the word “mama.” As our region slowly approached the “green” phase, I can say that my conversational skills began to once again span beyond Goodnight Moon. Gabi and I have returned to sitting on the stoop and we even talked about our communication insecurities. The Scooby Gang got together in person. And I do not feel that same isolation. While the world obliges us to keep using our masks, stand six feet apart, and limit our interactions for the safety of those around us, we can begin again to communicate and socialize. And while we all might stumble a bit through an awkward conversation about the any number of topics, please be kind. Some of us have been constantly reading Dr. Seuss! And remember, “quarantine” does not mean “isolation.” n Haley Beardsley, USCHS Class of 2020, will attend Bucknell University this fall and has enjoyed interning with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY during the 2019–20 school year. See Profiles feature on page 82 for more information on USC TODAY interns. 76
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How We Responded and Continued to Serve Daniel Barr, USC VFD President
Due to the events and outcome of COVID-19, the USC Volunteer Fire Department implemented programs to assure that USC residents are being served with no loss of protection or services. We understand that this pandemic has caused confusion, anxiety, frustration, and even fear among our residents. Our firefighters’ safety and health have been a big concern to the officers over the past several months, and we want to do our best to make sure that our members and their families are kept safe by taking numerous precautions, both in our station and within our membership. This includes precautions on how we respond to calls, how we clean and sanitize our apparatus and members after the calls, and how the stations are kept sanitized. The main station on Route 19 was closed to outside visitors beginning March 15, and our members were asked to limit time and frequency at the station, except for emergency calls. Our in-person fire prevention outreach programs were necessarily canceled. We initiated drive-by birthday party events (55 of them!) to say “hello” to our residents and for our residents to see their firefighters. We even assisted a USC moms’ Facebook group with
Helping Our Community When It Needs Us the Most Vidhur Senthil, USCHS Junior
Volunteers, ready to help
It was late March, and the world was in the midst of something we never anticipated or imagined. The Coronavirus was identified and discussed as an emerging global threat. Cases began exponentially increasing. “The isolated life” as I call it—is the new lifestyle that maintains safe distancing from others. As difficult as this change was, I was fortunate. I had access to all my basic essentials, and my relatively young age decreased my risk of contracting the virus. Sadly, this was not the case for everyone. Millions of people throughout the world suffered for reasons directly related to the virus and for reasons that were brought about by the virus. Life became increasingly difficult, especially for the elderly. Noticing virus-related problems with my own grandparents, I wanted to start a free grocery delivery service to help all USC residents in need, mainly targeted toward elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions. I contacted the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair to ask for their help and received a small grant. During the first week, I engaged the USC School District to help me promote the service and secure volunteers to carry out the plan. While I got many volunteers who were willing to
We Helped. a drive-by parade of the Easter Bunny around the Township. We are concerned for our residents and for our neighboring communities, and our fundraising efforts have been adjusted this year in response to the inability of some residents to work during the pandemic. The USC VFD has delayed the mailing of its annual funds request letter to allow time for everyone to return to a more normalized way of living. The officers of the department would like to thank everyone for their support during this time of uncertainty. Our members received many offerings of food and treats from the Market District, Girl Scout Troop 51776, Jets Pizza, Friendship Village, Firehouse Subs, and others. We received gifts of masks, handmade with love for our firefighters, and notes of encouragement and thanks as we responded to fires and provided assistance to our residents and neighboring communities. This time was also used for learning, as we moved our weekly training to online resources and testing. We found valuable training videos and webinars. (Webinars were rare in our line of work before we moved into required isolation and eventual social distancing.) We learned about online meeting applications, like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, GoToMeeting, and others. We used Facetime and Google Duo to virtually talk face-to-face regarding various issues. When we reached the “yellow phase,” we met in person and changed our bylaws to reflect and allow for meetings and votes to be concluded via applications for paying bills and discussing and approving other business. During the pandemic, the department’s response remained acceptable and our crew size remained adequate. As always, our members remained dedicated. Your volunteer fire department and its volunteers are always here to assist you in any way possible. We want to thank you for your continued support and your words of encouragement during these difficult times. Stay safe and know that we are thinking of you and keeping your safety our top priority. n drive, shop, and deliver food and essentials, I surprisingly did not get many requests. During the next few weeks, I further reached out to senior citizen homes, residential homes and apartments, places of worship, and the Township’s police department, as well as nearby school districts to increase my reach out efforts. Many, if not most, of these contacts lead to dead ends, and I was unsuccessful in spreading the word. As a last resort, I began posting flyers in my own neighborhood, but that also ended up fruitless. In the course of one and a half months, we engaged 20 eager volunteers, but made only two grocery deliveries. I started to doubt the project’s effectiveness, but my goal to help people in our community never diminished. At that point, I realized that I had to change the way I looked at this issue. Since it was my goal to help people who were most in need, I contacted local organizations, including 412 Food Rescue and the Pittsburgh Food Bank, to see what they did for our communities and how I could help. As a result, I learned about all the wonderful things these organizations do to help. To engage firsthand, I volunteered for the SHV drive up distribution offered by the Pittsburgh Food Bank and SHIM this past spring (see page 72 for a related article). I was heartened to see the positive impact this event had on our community, which caused me to become more interested in helping. I investigated how these organizations were funded, and I realized that all food banks rely primarily on donations. I worked on creating a fundraiser that raised money for food banks that serve the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Little did I know that this project would also be difficult to bring to fruition. According to my plan, I reached out to all school districts in the South Hills; a few of them were interested in my idea. While working with students and teachers from the schools that were interested, I was persistent, making sure we were all on the same page. During this process, Pennsylvania was transitioning to the green phase, which meant that most of the local businesses were allowed to open up under certain government-imposed restrictions. Because of the hardships that our local businesses have faced since March, I contacted many of them in our area to ask if we could advertise their
Members of the USC VFD and the Easter Bunny visit residents in a drive-by parade.
Driveway chalk art shares messages of encouragement and inspiration.
business if they donated a small amount of money to our fundraiser. After calling the first few businesses, I got a very clear pattern of response. As soon as I mentioned the word “advertising,” I was faced with hesitation. It took me a few phone calls to realize that many of the businesses I contacted had bigger things to worry about, and it wouldn’t be a good idea for them to donate money at this time. After talking with one particular local restaurant owner, I realized that I needed to again change my approach and my idea. The business owner told me that his business had been temporarily closed for the past three months and that he was hard-pressed to pay the bills he owed. Instead of asking for advertising dollars to support my grocery delivery fundraiser and showcase contributing businesses, I suggested to the owner that I would advertise for free his restaurant through a new website I was developing for this cause. He was so happy to hear that, and my newest idea took off! I remember overhearing him tell a few people who called in about my offer to advertise for him. At this point, I felt as if I would be helping to make a difference that benefitted our community. After learning this important lesson, I spent hours contacting multiple businesses in Upper St. Clair and nearby communities to offer the same service. Overall, I reached nearly 25 businesses that were interested to participate. The idea has been flushed out and is now on the right track. Preparations are complete, and we have come together as a community to help our neighbors in need (my primary goal), which also includes support from the school districts of Upper St. Clair, Peters, and South Fayette. The project has taught me a lot about our local community, its needs, and the perseverance it takes to make things happen. I hope everyone who reads this article will take the time to explore what this project is all about. n Visit www.grocerydelivery412.com for more information or to donate. To send information or have a question answered, email grocerydelivery412@gmail.com. Businesses that wished to be recognized and supported can be found by scrolling down the list. Fall 2020
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Around the Township The Board of Trustees Congratulates
Alexis Wehrle, President Shri Sai Pranaav Jamigumpala, Vice President Nate Hamel, Social Media Chairperson Alison Hess, Club Sponsor
on a Very Successful First Year
Book Buddies Project Gets Mini-Grant
CFUSC supports “Art for Joy” with communication support to promote an amazing idea.
The Community Foundation welcomes residents who share our interest in providing opportunities for projects and ideas that make Upper St. Clair a place we are all proud to call home. Our focus areas are Arts, Health, and STEM, and through the years, we have formed many partnerships to bring unique enrichment to our residents. Visit www.cfusc.org today to fill out and submit an application to become a member of the Board of Trustees.
CFUSC has awarded a $250.00 Emergency Mini-Grant to Vivek Babu and Reshma Gudla for start-up funding for their “Book Buddies” proposal. Their mission is to collect no longer needed test prep books that will be resold at half price to students who are currently studying for SAT, ACT, AP, IB and other standardized exams. Proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Homeless Children’s Education Fund in Pittsburgh. Congratulations to Vivek and Reshma, and to all of those preparing for testing.
CFUSC Blanket Sales Return with New Options for Delivery Have you purchased a Panther Stadium Blanket? If not, this soft, silky, plushy, warm, and attractive XL blanket is a great way to show your Panther Pride. It is machine washable and comes in a sturdy plastic storage bag. These blankets make great gifts for the whole family, and can be mailed to your college student. See details by going to the CF website at www.cfusc.org
Book Club
First Home Delivery of Panther Blanket
held its May meeting online to keep every one safe during this unusual time. In the interest of continued social distancing, the September meeting will also be held virtually to share and discuss The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko. Amazon Prime members can get a free copy for download on Kindle or as an audio book. The book can also be purchased on amazon.com. Please join us for the discussion on Thursday, September 10 at 11 a.m or 7 p.m. We will be using GoToMeeting, and you can join us from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. New GoToMeeting users can prepare ahead by downloading the app at https:// bit.ly/cf_gotomeeting. It is also recommended that you use headphones with a microphone. All Upper St. Clair residents are welcome to join. Participants can register to attend the meeting at bookclub@cfusc.org. Once you have registered, you will receive the secure link and password for entry into the meeting. In case you want to plan ahead, the book for November 12 is The Giver of Stars by JoJo Moyes. See you online! Happy reading!
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If you have had the good fortune to know any of the Upper St. Clair residents whose names appear on this Honor Roll, please thank them for their visionary leadership and volunteerism to our community. Since 1993 when the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair became a reality, these individuals have stepped up to create opportunities, bring innovation, and provide enrichment for all residents of our community. While many of these leaders have moved away and some have passed on, they have given freely of their time and talents and some of them even served multiple terms. Their dedication has made the Community Foundation an important asset to the Township at large. Please consider becoming a member of this distinctive Honor Roll of 104 caring community leaders.
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Honor Roll of Trustees, 1993 to The Present Celeste Acinapura Leanne Adamo Robert Allman II William N. Andrews Michael Barnett John S. Barsotti Pamela C. Batz James Bennett*++ Raymond Berrott David E. Bluey Sandra Boring Judy Casturo James E. Davison Stacie de la Parra William J. DeLeo John Dell* Lynn Dempsey Jennifer Dempsey** Beth Ellis Beth Erlanger Paul K. Fox Dina J. Fulmer Shannon Gallagher** Daphna Gans** Ray D. Gergich* Michael A. Giglotti Girish G. Godbole* Deepa G. Godbole Barbara F. Greenberg Jennifer L. Greenberg Michael Grzesiak Anita L. Hammons Gregory A. Harbaugh Thomas H. Harshman*
Jeffrey Harshman Buffy Hasco Thomas S. Henderson Alison Hess** Terry J. Himes Ponny Conomos Jahn Robin G. Johnson Roy T. Johnson David Jones Edward G. Kelly Chester Kent* Theresa Kish** Gary A. Kissinger Richard M. Kleid Julie M. Klym Rachel Lowden Catherine L. Luke Linda D. Marks Aleen Mathews Gordon Mathews** Charlotte J. McDaniel* Vicki A. McKenna Janet L. Mosesso Mary Muffly* Abraham L. Nader Bruce Nelson** Clark R. Nicklas* Niles E. Norman Sandra Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Toole Richard E. Patton Angela B. Petersen Terrie Piatt George W. Pitcairn Richard W. Purnell Joanne M. Prorock R. Thomas Ramsey
Marlene Rankin* David B. Rice II Mariam T. Richardson Michael Roeschenthaler Clifford R. Rowe Jr. Terry Rubright Joy Rullo Eileen C. Sakoian Glen Sandusky Justin Schmidt** Linda H. Serene* Tammy Singleton-English** John Small*+ Charles F. Smolky Margaret B. Snavely Becky Stern Steve Stockton John Tarcson Sandra L. R. Thomas Stephen J. Todorovich Lauren Trocano Mark G. Trombetta Pierette VanRyzin Diane E. Vater Wendy Vespa Rachelle Vopal** Tim Wagner Roberta L. T. Walsh Diana L. Whetsell Myrna L. Wiese Barbara Williams James A. Yard Shellie Yeung Gregg Zegarelli
*Member of First Board **Current Board Member +First Executive Director ++Longest Serving Board Member
Please note that these names were collected from a variety of archival materials about the Community Foundation. We have made every effort to list all members whose names are in the documents we have found, and we apologize for any omissions or misspellings.
Fall 2020
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What’s Happening at Wingfield Pines?
Lindsay Dill, Marketing Communications Director
Hiking at Wingfield Pines
Walking through Wingfield Pines at dawn this time of year brings sights of busy birds starting their days, seeking out food, singing songs, and flying through native grasses blowing in the breeze. Throughout the day, the green space’s trails are filled with activity—from photographers and bird watchers with their lenses to hikers and explorers getting in their miles. By dusk, the sounds of frog and toad croaks fill the air, as fireflies begin to dot the night with their yellow glow. For years, we could rely on these sets of activity at this bustling, wildlife-rich green space. This year, Wingfield Pines was ready to get back to its full glory after a three-year abandoned mine drainage (AMD) treatment system fix. It was time for boots to hit the ground to repair construction-worn trails, for native species to be planted, and for volunteer and education-based programs to visit the space. But, the novel coronavirus had different plans in mind. Our world was turned upside down and our lives were impacted in different ways and to varying degrees that none of us could have imagined early this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This put a halt to Allegheny Land Trust’s (ALT) planned volunteer and education programs, but it also reemphasized the things that keep us feeling grounded—and for many, that has been the outdoors. The importance of proximity to green space has been made evermore apparent. ALT has never seen more people flocking to its conservation areas to exercise, experience a change of scenery, and gather peace of mind in wooded, serene, close-tohome, trail-laden green space while practicing safe social distancing. In a pandemic survey ALT sent out at spring’s end, 76% of people said they visited either an ALT green space or
other green spaces more often than they typically would have; 84% said the green spaces they visited were noticeably more populated than in years prior during the same season; 96% said the stay-at-home order inspired a desire for more close-to-home green space; and 100% said they found a greater appreciation for the role that green space plays in their quality of life because of the global pandemic. If there are to be silver linings in dire situations like these, then people’s connection with community green space certainly tops the charts for us as one. Though we postponed and cancelled in-person, on-site events out of an abundance of precaution for much of the year, we didn’t let the coronavirus dampen our passion for Wingfield Pines and implementing its management plan recommendations. By the time this story is published, ALT’s 2020 Hamm intern Josh Weiland will have been maintaining, improving, and observing the habitat of Wingfield Pines. In his first weeks during the summer, he worked with stewardship to see the finalization of a new access road into the green space. Throughout the summer, he’ll have logged ecological activity, managed Wingfield Pine’s trails and habitats, and shared information regarding invasive and native species found at the green space. In addition to Josh’s community and habitat work, you may notice the new roadside and interpretive signage throughout Wingfield Pines, which offers greater visibility and helpful information about Wingfield Pine’s system, flora and fauna, and history. We look forward to getting back to the full and carefree glory of sharing time and space together at Wingfield Pines, both maintaining and improving the wonderful green space. Until then, visit ALT’s Eventbrite calendar to find virtual programming, in-person group events, and solo volunteering opportunities. To help you feel safe, details and precautions are listed with each event. n
For additional information, check out these sites: • Events calendar: bit.ly/altoutside • Wingfield Pines conservation area page: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/explore/wingfield-pines • Green Space and Global Pandemic page: bit.ly/covidlandsurvey 80
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Sun breaking through the trees at Wingfield Pines
To become involved or to find more information, visit alleghenylandtrust.org or call 412-741-2750.
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Profiles
of People with a USC Connection
Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor,
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or
usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Meet Our USC TODAY Interns, Past and Present
Thank you to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s past three interns, who helped provide articles of interest and photos for our community magazine. Welcome to our two newest interns who will be with us for the 2020–21 school year. Read on to learn more about where they are and what they’re doing. Haley Beardsley, USCHS Class of 2020, will attend Bucknell University this fall, where she plans to double major in English literary studies and international relations. Haley shared, “Working for TODAY was incredible! Not only was the staff kind and available, but the magazine allowed me to become involved with the community while fostering my love for photography and writing.” Haley Beardsley Lauren Teresi, USCHS Class of 2020, will attend Kenyon College this fall. She hopes to major in international studies and studio art. Additionally, she’d like to build upon her writing and photography experiences gained through her 2019–20 internship at TODAY by working with the school’s campus magazine, newspaper, and the Kenyon Review. Lauren says, “As a writing and photography intern for TODAY, I gained valuable experiences in writing Lauren Teresi journalistically for a broader audience, rather than only teachers or peers. Additionally, while I always look for the artistic or aesthetic shot, I learned to value taking informative, inclusive photographs that encompassed the entire event while appealing to the readership. These newly gained skills will help me as I move on to college. I enjoyed the opportunity to engage with the community as a whole and appreciate greatly the opportunity and mentorship given to me by the TODAY staff.” Emmeline Wetzel, USHCS Class of 2020, will attend Carnegie Mellon University this fall to pursue a major in information systems and a minor in French. Emme expressed that her internship with TODAY “Really helped me think about how to plan my writing in a way that included everyone’s thoughts in a kind Emme Wetzel manner.” Julia Roeschenthaler, a junior at USCHS and editor of the St. Clairion, the school’s newspaper, is one of the two newest interns at TODAY. Involved in the school’s Girls United Globally club, peer tutoring, and the USC Spanish conversation group, she loves writing and also enjoys baking, hiking, and traveling. Thanks Julia for coming on board for the 2020–21 school year to keep USC residents informed and enterJulia tained, using our community’s publication as one of your Roeschenthaler platforms to connect with people. Bria Zegarelli, a junior at USCHS, is delighted to be interning with TODAY, beginning with this edition. Bria, a member of the school’s choir, has been actively involved with the arts, regularly taking voice lessons and participating in the school’s musicals the past two years. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends. We thank you for joining our staff of dedicated volunteers who desire to share their works with residents of USC. Bria Zegarelli 82
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Former USC Resident Becomes Author
The Gift Best Given: A Memoir, by former Upper St. Clair resident Edward Di Gangi, shares the stories of the lives and eventual introduction of two individuals separated by 70 years. As he approached the age of 70, DiGangi, who was adopted at birth, set out to determine the identity of his biological mother. His serendipitous journey ultimately not only revealed the identity of his mother, a celebrity performer in the glamorous ice show spectaculars of the 1940s and ’50s, but his biological father, siblings, and cousins, as well. In the book, the details of Di Gangi’s search are interwoven throughout the story he tells of a determined young woman who left her home in a New York City suburb at the age of 17 in 1942 to travel across the country alone by train to join a touring ice show in Vancouver, British Columbia. After performing in Canada, Mexico, and throughout the United States, she returned to New York, unknown to her parents, to manage her son’s unplanned birth in 1948. The book speaks to those touched in any way by adoption, and will intrigue family historians and those curious about the use of DNA in tracing and establishing family relationships. The Gift Best Given: A Memoir is available in softcover through local book sellers and online. Signed copies are available through the author’s website:www.digangiauthor.com. Ebook editions for all devices are also available through online providers and on the author’s website. Before relocating to North Carolina, Di Gangi and his wife, Linda, lived in Upper St. Clair for 13 years. Ed was a founding member and president of the Upper St. Clair Fly Fishing Club, as well as the president of the USC High School Hockey Association. Their son, James, who also lives in North Carolina, is a 2009 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School.
School Counselor Elected President of Statewide Association
Jennifer Kirk, USCHS counselor and curriculum leader, was elected as the 66th president of the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association (PSCA). “Jen is currently serving her second consecutive year as PSCA secretary,” said Michael Perrott, past-president of PSCA. “As such, she has done an outstanding job assisting our organization on a wide Jennifer Kirk variety of initiatives designed to lead school counselors in Pennsylvania.” For the upcoming 2020–21 school year, Jen will serve as PSCA’s president-elect and will assume her presidency July 2021 through June 30, 2022. Jen, who has been an Upper St. Clair school counselor for 20 years, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Pittsburgh. She is currently enrolled in Northeastern University’s Doctor of Education program, with a concentration in curriculum, teaching, learning, and leadership. Last spring, Jen was honored through the 2019 College Board Counselor Recognition Program and was previously honored with the 2018 Chi Sigma Iota, Delta Upsilon Chapter Outstanding Site Supervisor Award from the Duquesne University Counseling program. In addition, she was named the 2014 Pennsylvania High School Counselor of Year by the PSCA. Jen resides in Upper St. Clair Township with her husband, George, and their two children, Tyler and Annabelle.
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Happenings! Savvy shoppers, get a jump on winter holiday gifting by stopping by the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts’ Sugarplum Shop 2020. Held at Upper St. Clair Township’s MAC (McLaughlin Run Activity Center) on McLaughlin Run Road, this annual event features original fine art and hand-crafted holiday gift items, all designed and crafted by local artists. Take part in this wonderful Upper St. Clair tradition, this year held Thursday, November 5–Tuesday, November 10. Admission is free. When the dates draw nearer, TODAY will send a reminder through its Facebook page.
Sesame Inn in Mt. Lebanon has relocated its restaurant to a new address. After a wonderful 32 years at its premiere location on the main drag in Mt. Lebanon, the business has moved across the street to 704 Washington Road and is planning to open its doors to the public early fall. Continue to visit its sister store at the McMurray location. Sugarplum Shop Dates and Times: Thursday, November 5, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Friday, November 6, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, November 8,11 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday, November 9, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tuesday, November 10, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Fall 2020
Sesame Inn proprietors thank their patrons who have become a part of their treasured family. See Sesame Inn ad on this page.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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g in h l ve wit a Y Tr A D O T
TODAY @ Home
Creativity @ Home USC’s Miles family children—Lucia (13), Chance (11) and Mileidi (8)—did their best to make the most of each shelter-at-home day this past spring and into the summer by being creative with kite flying, trying new recipes in the kitchen, displaying driveway chalk art, and studying outdoors in the fresh air. TODAY stayed home, too, and sheltered in place as directed by the local and national governments and suggested by members of the medical community. Never have we lived such a different type of spring break, which was then followed by months of similar solitude, all requiring inventive ways in which to help pass the time. n
These photos were shared on TODAY’s Facebook page this past April.
Gathering with Friends @ Home This summer, instead of TODAY traveling to other locations during the days of COVID-19, these young adults from USC’s Class of 2015 traveled to Upper St. Clair from around the country to enjoy some “home is where the heart is” time. While required to work remotely, many traveled from their new residences, including Chicago, Cleveland, New York City, and San Francisco, to USC for an extended stay at their families’ homes where they grew up. Catching up with high school friends when restrictions lifted was a welcomed opportunity for this group. n
Instructions for Traveling with TODAY
Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information. • Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stayat-home project. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Email information to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line. A handful of members of USC’s Class of 2015 took the opportunity to gather for some camaraderie when Allegheny County was comfortably in the green phase. 84
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Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.
MOVEMENT M O R T G A G E
Kevin O’Laughlin MOVEMENT MORTGAGE MARKET LEADER NMLS#: 1289348 direct: 412.600.1527 kevin.olaughIin@movement.com movement.com/kevin.olaughlin
110 For t Couch Rd., Suite 303, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania 15102 I PA-53158, IN-28226, Ml-1289348, VA-ML0-25546VA, OH-ML0.048081.000, OH-L0.048081.000, TX, Fl-L031566 I Movement Mor tgage, LLC suppor ts Equal Housing Oppor tunity. NMLS ID# 39179 (www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org) I 877-314-1499. Movement Mor tgage, LLC is licensed by PA # 34374, IN # 18121, Ml # FR0018717 & SR0020189, VA # MC-5112 and OH # SM.501922.000 & MB.804187.000, TX, FL# MLD200 & MLD1360. Interest rates and products are subject to change without notice and may or may not be available at the time of loan commitment or lock-in. Borrowers must qualify at closing for all benefits. “Movement Mor tgage” is a registered trademark of the Movement Mor tgage, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. 8024 Calvin Hall Rd, Indian Land, SC 29707. CPID 5238 I Exp. 7/2018
WHAT’S UP TO? This past February, the Youth Steering Committee of Upper St. Clair (YSC) held its semi-annual social event “Winter Blast 2020” for middle school-aged children in grades five and six. The event, held at the C&RC, provided a fun evening for the attending students, but also a volunteer, leadership, and mentoring opportunity for many USC High School students. With upward of 300 students, 20 youth volunteers, and 30 adult chaperones in attendance, the event was a buzz with activity! From carnival games to an inflatable obstacle course, to Bingo and line dancing, there was an activity for every interest. The YSC is a community action group formed in 2000 with the mission of providing positive direction and support to the youth and families of Upper St. Clair. A key initiative of YSC is the USC CARES FOR KIDS (USC CFK), founded in 2010 with a specific focus of nurturing children and youth in the community. According to Amy Billerbeck, USC school board director and YSC member, “Events such as the youth Winter Blast allow us to interact with the community. More importantly, these events connect students of all ages outside of their individual school buildings. I love attending these events; they have been consistently attended since we launched the programming in 2010, and we look forward to hosting another event in the fall when it is safe to do so.” The YSC would like to express its sincere thanks
to USC Township for its generous contributions to this event, especially for the use of the C&RC. These events have benefitted more than 3900 children over the past ten years and involved Attendees having fun at the Winter Blast many adult chaperones who act as positive role models for our youth. The goal of the YSC is to link members of the community together to increase awareness about various issues faced by our youth. Members include adult residents, parents, high school students, school staff members, and representatives from both USC School District and Township. Developing effective programming is truly a collaborative effort intended to help guide the community. From discussions on vaping to the opioid crisis, the YSC tackles tough issues in a comprehensive and caring way. n If you are interested in learning more about the YSC, attend a meeting. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month (excluding summer) at the C&RC. All are welcome; please consider joining us. Fall 2020
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SHIM’s March to Sack Hunger, Pack Hope Campaign Sets Record South Hills Interfaith Movement’s (SHIM) annual Sack Hunger, Pack Hope campaign—modified this year to be a month-long, high-urgency initiative held in March—raised a record-breaking $110,000 to help fight local hunger. Dubbed this year as “March to Sack Hunger, Pack Hope,” the campaign well exceeded expectations after seeing a rise in donations following the COVID-19 pandemic. “When we started this campaign at the beginning of March, we had no idea how our communities and lives would be upended in just a matter of weeks,” said Jim Guffey, executive director of SHIM. “Our region has been facing hunger and other issues for a long time, and this crisis has only made things harder for people who were already in need. It’s also put thousands more of our neighbors in a position where they’re struggling to put food on the table and make ends meet for the first time.” In 2019, SHIM’s three food pantries— located at SHIM Center in Bethel Park, Prospect Park in Whitehall, and Baldwin United Presbyterian Church—provided nearly 501,000 pounds of food for more
than 3500 people in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. That need has grown in 2020, especially in the wake of COVID-19. In March alone, SHIM saw a 21% year-overyear increase in households seeking help with basic needs, like food and financial assistance. To enable the public to safely support March to Sack Hunger, Pack Hope during the pandemic, SHIM encouraged online donations instead of food drives, which have been essential to prior campaigns. The result was a 97% increase in contributions through SHIM’s website compared to 2019. “SHIM has never seen numbers like these before,” said Guffey. “We were receiving donations before the pandemic, but then they really took off. The overwhelming generosity from the community will ensure that thousands of our neighbors in need won’t go to bed hungry. We are so grateful to them for stepping up to help those who need assistance.” The donations allow SHIM’s pantries to continue serving the community as the crisis lingered. While shop-through pantries were suspended, pre-packaged boxes of food were provided weekly, as well as at drive-through distributions at SHIM’s
Bethel Park location. To ensure safety, volunteers adhered to social distancing, wore gloves and masks at all times, and constantly sanitized all surfaces. “We’re making progress in this fight, but we still have a long way to go,” said Guffey. “As SHIM works to adapt to ever-changing and ever-growing needs, we continue to rely on our community’s generosity to help vulnerable individuals and families get back on their feet. SHIM was here for our community before the COVID-19 crisis and we’ll be here long after it’s over,” he added. “As long as there is a need in our community, we’re here to stay.” n SHIM is a human services organization dedicated to improving the lives of people in need across Pittsburgh’s South Hills. For more information, visit SHIM’s general website at shimcares.org, or for those who want to make a monetary donation to support SHIM’s work, visit shimcares.org/give. Anyone in need of urgent assistance can contact SHIM’s main office at 412-854-9120 and select the extension for the appropriate staff person. For more information, see “No Ordinary Day in May” SHIM article on page 72.
Jim and Lanny
Cont. from page 18
Due to the COVID-19 shutdown of facilities on the Waynesburg campus since March, Lanny was not able to hold his 11th annual sports announcing camp for high school students scheduled for June. He is aware that similar course offerings for would-be sports broadcasters and sports management positions are available at local schools, including Pitt, Point Park, Robert Morris, and Duquesne, and at other schools throughout the country. He also realizes how difficult it is to land broadcasting jobs. Check out how few Pittsburgh sports media personnel have held their positions forever. “I still believe,” said Lanny, “that if a young person wants to succeed in this business and is willing to pay the price in terms of endurance and long hours, he or she will find a way to succeed. And the ability to communicate is an asset in any career.” Lanny not only expands the vocabulary and horizons of all his students, he also has had a variety of job experiences that gives him the knowledge and background to enrich their educational efforts. Lanny is a fussy sort and he has a list of words he believes lack meaning, including “nice,” “special,” “actual,” and “unbelievable.” He urges his students to find words that more aptly describe the situation at hand. 86
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The spirit of Bob Prince remains with Lanny. “I was doing the Charleston (West Virginia) Charlies games in 1974, and I came to Three Rivers Stadium to meet Bob Prince and watch the Pirates. Bob put me on the air for a few innings. He was generous that way. He was working with Nellie King, another great guy. He told King, as he pointed to me, ‘I’d like to have this young man’s future. And, of course, he’d like to have my past.’ ” Lanny said it has been his good fortune to have wonderful friends, including Jim Render, former Pirates manager Jim Leyland, Jack Failla, and John Williams. “There have been situations in my life where my friends were quick to rally around me. I am indebted to them and appreciate how relationships can be lifesavers,” said Lanny. n To watch airings of 15241 TODAY talk, On Stage with Jim and Lanny, turn to USC’s TV stations (Cable 7 or Verizon 42) where guest interviews are run on a continuingly scheduled basis. You can also watch them digitally by visiting the Township’s website (twpusc.org) and choosing “videos gallery” under “Life in USC,” or the School’s District’s athletic website (upperstclairatletics.com), where a link to each interview is shared. Jim O’Brien’s new book, Looking Up Once Again–A Basketball Memoir, is available at www.jimobriensportsauthor.com. Check it out!
Through Life’s Door Hanging from a shredded thread Twirling in life’s silent breeze. So much has changed to see ahead Who shall succumb from this disease? Barely seen among the crypts Shuttered windows, a mystical door. Tethered by earthly wooden script Of life and death and want for more. Behold the key of which we hold Hidden deep in dreams and soul. Walk the path as foretold Awake and open, a door no more. Renewed connections to others we’ve found Tangled in life by threads quite bare. Our time has come, our love surrounds Above the abyss, shall we remain aware. —Ron Morosky Ron shares this poem, inspired and written during the COVID-19 pandemic during a walk in a cemetary. According to Ron, “Many doors appear during one’s lifetime. We decide which doors to open until we reach our final door’s destination.”
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Advertiser Index Fall 2020
www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home * Angelo Associates ................................................................................... 69 Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ....................................................................... 18 Asbury Heights ....................................................................................... 58 Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh .................................................................. 23 * Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ....3 * Brookside Lumber ................................................................................... 87 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service ..................................................................... 81 Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort .......................................................... 56 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC .............................................. 57 Clubhouse Cards ..................................................................................... 21 * Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office .........................Outside back cover * Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ............................................................. 23 Coldwell Banker–Leigh Harkreader ........................................................ 83 Coldwell Banker–Dora Rudick ................................................................. 85 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................. 68 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 87 * Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 20
* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ............................................................... 81 J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ........................ 19 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ...................................... 68 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ........................................................ 24 Little Lake Theatre Company ................................................................... 20 * Manalo, Larry E., DMD ............................................................................ 24 Mister Sewer ........................................................................................... 33 Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................... 87 Mt. Lebanon Golf Course ........................................................................ 58 Movement Mortgage–Kevin O’Laughlin ................................................. 85 OTB Bicycle Café ...................................................................................... 13 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ............................................................ 24 * Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community .......................... 52 * Rusmur Floors .................................................................. Inside back cover * St. Clair Hospital ..................................................................................2, 51 St. Clair Plastic Surgery Associates .......................................................... 53 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .............................................................. 37
We at UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY appreciate all our advertisers who help fund the magazine and contribute useful information for our readers. Thank you for your support! Together, we will continue to keep our community safe and an outstanding place to live, work, and raise a family.—Staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Flavia, Davit, Dr. ...................................................................................... 57 Friendship Village of South Hills ............................................................ 15 G’s Landscape, LLC .................................................................................. 69 G’s Window and Gutter Cleaning ............................................................ 81 George Girty Landscape Design .............................................................. 81 Goldfish Swim School ............................................................................. 21 Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling .................................. 73 Hastings South Fayette–Charter Homes & Neighborhoods .......................7 Heartland Homes/Laurel Place ..................................................................9 * Howard Hanna–USC Office .............................................. Inside front cover
Let guide you with great ad placement.
Give us a call!
* Sesame Inn ............................................................................................. 83 South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1 Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ....................................................5 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ....................................................... 23 Swift Audiology ....................................................................................... 55 * Thomas Dance Studio ............................................................................. 21 Torrente Apartment Homes ..................................................................... 25 Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................... 24 * Washington Health System .................................................................... 54 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ............................ 11 Interested to sell ads for TODAY? Give us a call at 412-833-1600, x2284.
*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 51 issues. Thank you.
412-833-1600 x 2284 | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us | www.twpusc.org | www.15241.today UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair 88
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