23 minute read
Educational Resources
Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®
lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com
www.lynnsellspittsburgh.com Thank you Clients!
❤
C: (412) 445-6264
O: (412) 833-5405
$50 million plus National Corporate Relocation Specialist 2018-2021 Corporate Relocation Specialist
CARTUS Relocation
CNMS, CNBS, CNIS
© 2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
Trying to Predict the 2022 Real Estate Market
Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®
Real estate market sales continue to be unpredictable this year. With rising mortgage rates and a continued shortage of homes, the housing market predictions are as reliable as the weather forecast. New home building sales have increased in the first two quarters of 2022, even with the shortage of building supply materials. Many existing homes sold for over-ask prices, receiving multiple bids with many disappointed buyers but happy sellers. As we continue into the third and fourth quarters, no one predicts with 100% accuracy where the real estate market will end up.
Remember, a housing market prediction can only give you an “idea” of what to expect. Never let this control your decision of buying or selling. Only your personal situation and finances can help you make the best decisions for you.
Experts are still seeing a post-pandemic rebound. The steady increase of mortgage rates, job recoveries and the law of supply and demand all work together to make the housing/real estate industry what it is today—unpredictable. The average median home prices are continuing to spike. Will this continue? Do not forget how increased mortgage rates will affect the overall cost of your new home. The mortgage rates, as we know, are influenced by the economy and inflation. The Federal Reserve has announced plans to continue to raise interest rates this year to slow down inflation. We know that with this change the current home buyer will be paying more for their home over time.
Experts are stating that buyer demand will continue to be strong, and the housing inventory will remain low, as it currently is. Buyers may have to wait longer and work harder to save more money to buy their dream home. So, hold on for the real estate ride and stay tuned. n
See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell Banker Realtor®, on this page.
Empowerment Through Art
Ava Wynne, USCHS Freshman
I have always found comfort in art. When I felt stressed or anxious, I would turn to art as a sort of therapy for myself. I began to show interest in third grade in 2-D art, as well as music and creative writing. In the beginning of 2022, I fell in love with the Ava Wynne at her art sale this past May 2-D technique of embroider canvas art, which involves sewing a line art image onto a stretched canvas. As of now, I have created over 25 individual works that, on average, take around three to five hours each.
As an 8th grade student at Fort Couch, I dedicated my IB service hours to empowering women through art. I spent many weekends over the span of five months creating eight original pieces, which I sold at an art show to raise money for the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh.
The Women’s Shelter of Pittsburgh focuses on aiding women who are recovering from abuse. For my art show I decided to partner with Athleta, because I think their mission statement is very inspiring. Their mission is to ignite a community of active, healthy, confident women and girls who empower each other to realize their limitless potential.
This May, I raised over $260 dollars in donations for the Women’s Shelter. I genuinely believe that every person—man or woman— has the ability to create something truly impactful through the activities they are passionate about. n
Darah Kirstein, Owner, Ivybrook Academy
The Nutcracker
Register for the fall! Featuring the South Hills’ largest production of The Nutcracker!
Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh 4100 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 412-343-9333 www.balletacademypgh.com info@balletacademypgh.com
Choosing a preschool is one of the most important decisions a parent must make. It is the starting point for your little one’s path to learning.
What should parents look for when selecting a preschool?
While every child is different, it is important to get them in a learning environment as they begin to develop language skills. Try to find a school that is child led. For example, if your son is interested in dinosaurs, his teacher might choose to use a dinosaur to help him learn about math. Each lesson is driven by the child’s interest, allowing the student to learn at their own pace, encourage curiosity and help each child build a love of learning.
What should parents look for in a classroom?
Seek out an environment that is small and with tools for age-appropriate South Fayette Campus learning. Toddler programs should be A REGGIO EMILIA + MONTESSORI + HALF DAY PRESCHOOL structured for very busy little ones! The classroom should be a safe and nurturing Now Enrolling environment that allows them to explore. Toddler – Kindergarten They learn to express themselves through 3127 Washington Pike, Ste. 500singing, dancing, reading, and art. Ask Bridgeville, PA 15017teachers what type of materials they will provide your child, as well as how their (412) 676-7600 program makes learning fun!
For two-year-olds, look for options that encourage student independence and help www.ivybrookacademy.com children understand how their actions affect others around them.
In three-year-old classrooms, you want to find an environment that will build your child’s confidence. A three-year-old’s day should be carefully planned out with a variety of hands-on activities to encourage learning and socialization. At age three, students should be taught to write their name, and recognize letters, numbers, colors, and shapes.
At age four, teachers should help your child build essential skills by carefully crafting activities that balance instructed learning and purposeful play. This is also the age when your child should know how to follow instructions, listen, communicate, practice self-control, and connect with their peers.
How do you know what type of preschool schedule is best for your child—and your family?
A toddler’s first trip to pre-school can be daunting for the child as well as the parents. Look at your options and see what is best for your schedule. Now that so many people work from home, a halfday program might be the perfect choice. It gives the parent a break—and slowly introduces the child into a learning environment. A program that offers flexibility like two or three days a week versus five days a week is also something you should consider before making your final choice. n Ivybrook Academy is an award-winning half day preschool that offers a progressive approach to early childhood education with a curriculum that combines elements of the Montessori method, Reggio Emilia, and Multiple Intelligence Research. See ad on this page.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES GUIDE
Baker Streams Eisenhower Boyce Kindergarten-Plus Before School After School
Register Online at www.ExtendedDay.com or call (412) 221-1980
…and Other Reasons to Play Music
Becki Lewis, Owner, Lewis Music Studio
Recently I was chatting with a group of campers at one of our summer camps during the lunch time. I saw that one of the students, Lori, had a note from her mom. I commented, “Wow! Your mom wrote you a note!” She read it out loud, “Lori, have a great day at camp, and remember: Taylor Swift’s mom doesn’t have to do dishes anymore!” Giggling erupted, and the fun light-hearted chatter continued.
This conversation has had me reflecting on our purpose for music. Any one of the students in that talented group could be the next sensation to hit the charts, but chances are they will not take their music in that direction. So then, why play?
I would argue that the single best and most valuable reason to play music is because it brings enjoyment. Music is something that can touch us in a way that nothing else can; and being able to produce music can be a truly transformative experience. Recently my nephew begrudgingly agreed to guitar lessons. By the end of the lesson, he knew how to play his first song, and he had found his passion for playing music. It’s amazing how learning a simple ditty can open a desire to make more music. The amazing thing is, it’s a cycle—you learn music, it brings enjoyment, you play more, you learn more, and it brings more enjoyment. This is a lifelong process of discovery and pleasure!
This all sounds so rose-colored. I know what you must be thinking—it can’t always be that fun! If it was, why would I have to argue with my child to practice? As a parent who literally argued with my child to practice while writing this, I can relate! The thing is, the cycle can run the other way too—you don’t practice, the music is too hard, you get no enjoyment. This is true; music can be hard work, so we often have to provide our children (and ourselves!) some extra motivators to keep the cycle going in a positive way. So, we may offer positive praise, stickers, treats, rewards, attention, and any number of things.
Is it worth it? I would argue that it absolutely is! Music in and of itself is absolutely worth it, but in case you aren’t convinced, here are a few more reasons to play music: • Provides a chance for socialization when you play in a group • Reduces anxiety • Alleviates stress • Aides in brain development • Creates a topic of conversation • Reinforces math skills • Improves the ability to track words on paper • Provides a chance for fine motor practice • Boosts confidence • Improves memory • And again… brings enjoyment
When I left home, my mom said that one of the things that she missed the most was hearing me play piano every night. As my own kids get older, I understand. Hearing them play is a joy. I could listen for hours—especially when they are playing something they really love. So whatever phase of life you find yourself in, music is worth the effort. You may not ever be the next Taylor Swift, and that’s ok. n
The next Taylor Swift?
See ad for Lewis Music Studio on this page.
R E G I S T E R T O D A Y F O R Y O U R FREE LESSON
Piano
▪Guitar▪Bass Guitar▪Ukulele
Voice
▪Violin▪Viola▪Cello▪String
Bass
▪Drums▪Flute▪Piccolo
Clarinet
▪Saxophone▪Trombone
Trumpet▪Euphonium▪Baritone Tuba▪French Horn▪Banjo▪Music
Technology
Lewis Music Studio is South Fayette's own school of music! We enjoy making music with students of all ages! Visit our website for details about classes, lessons, summer camps, instrument rentals, and more!
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Insurance and Other Tips for College Students and Their Belongings
Understand how your homeowners insurance policy could protect your college student and their belongings while they’re living in a residence hall or dorm room.
Sending your child to college is an experience that comes with exhilaration, stress, and a measure of anxiety. Relieve some of that worry by knowing how your homeowners insurance policy protects your student and their belongings while they are away at college.
Does my homeowners insurance cover college students?
Most homeowners’ insurance policies offer coverage for college students. Check with your insurance company for specific information on how coverage is handled for college students. Here are some coverages from your homeowners insurance policy that might extend to a college student: • Personal liability. The personal liability coverage on your policy may help if a guest is injured in your son’s or daughter’s dorm room or if your child accidentally damages school property.
The policy may help pay for damages and might even pay for your student’s legal defense in the event of a lawsuit. • Medical payments to others. If the accident in your child’s dorm room results in an injury to another, the standard homeowners insurance coverage may help pay for any medical expenses and hospital bills incurred. • Personal property coverage. Typically, your homeowners insurance covers your student’s personal property inside your student’s residence.
Details tend to vary between homeowners insurance policies and often there are limits in place on personal property coverage outside of the home, so check the specifics of your policy with your agent to find out if your student is covered or whether you might need to purchase additional insurance coverage.
What questions should I ask my insurance agent about homeowners’ insurance and college students?
Before the school year starts, talk to your insurance agent to help understand how your homeowners insurance works with your college student. • Is the liability limit for an accident in my child’s dorm room the same as if one happened in my home? If it’s not, or if you don’t feel it’s enough, you might want to consider a personal umbrella policy. • What is the personal property coverage for my student’s belongings while away at school? Perform a home inventory of the items your child is taking to school. If you don’t feel the homeowners insurance coverage is adequate, you might consider a personal articles policy to provide additional coverage for electronics, musical instruments or sports equipment. • Does the homeowners insurance policy cover my student and their property if they live off campus? If not, a renters insurance policy can help protect against property loss and liability when your student lives off campus in an apartment or rental home. • What if my student is taking their car to college? What if they leave it at home? If your student will be taking a car, truck or SUV to school, make sure he or she is adequately insured.
Remind your child that insurance rates may be impacted negatively as a result of traffic violations—and positively with potential discounts for good grades. n
Township Commissioners
Daniel R. Paoly
President At Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2025*
Dante R. Plutko, Jr.
Vice President Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-389-5187 2023*
Pamela L. Enck
Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 2025*
Robert W. Orchowski
Ward 3
Day 412-831-9000 2023*
Todd D. Burlingame
Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 2025*
Ronald J. Pardini
Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2023*
Richard I. Thomas
At Large
Day 412-831-9000 2023*
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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 on the website at twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Mark S. Mansfield Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration
Ed Poljack Director of Information Technology
Township Administration
Check out the township’s website twpusc.org
Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police
George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works Mark P. Romito Director of Finance
Christian Gmiter Director of Library Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development
Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services
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 Ed Poljack ...................................................... Director of Information Technology George Kostelich, Jr............................... 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter ................................... 2470 Director of Library Paul Besterman...................................... 6560 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
Follow the Township of Upper St. Clair on social media for the latest news and announcements.
2022 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates
• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month.
The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the C&RC; 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.
Meetings are held in the Municipal Building’s board room, unless otherwise indicated. Meeting locations are subject to change; refer to the Township website at twpusc.org for more information.
April 4, 2022
Approximately 8 attended
Recognition
•Commissioner Plutko presented a Proclamation to Mr.
Chris Gmiter, Library Director, in recognition of National
Library Week, April 3 – 9, 2022.
The Board
•Accepted the Morton Sports Field Complex Master Plan
Study and directed Staff to develop a prioritization plan. •Adopted Bill No. 3-22 Re. PLC21-0017 – Chick-Fil-A
Restaurant – Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and
Final Land Development Approval. •Adopted Bill No. 4-22 to amend Chapter 106 of the
Township Code, entitled “Sewers and Drains”.
Approval of Contracts
•Landscape Structures, Inc. .............................. $76,158.18
Delano, MN
Hays Park Playground Renovation •General Recreation, Inc. .................................. $65,675.00
Newtown Square, PA
Wiltshire Park Playground Surface Replacement
Colleen Miles, head of children and youth services, and Library Director Chris Gmiter receive a proclamation from Commissioner Dante Plutko.
May 2, 2022
Approximately 28 people attended
Recognitions
•Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation to
Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services recognizing May 15-21, 2022 as National Emergency
Medical Services Week in Upper St. Clair with the theme
EMS WEEK: Rising to the Challenge. •Commissioner Thomas presented a Proclamation to the
Upper St. Clair High School Speech & Debate Team for their win at the Pennsylvania High School Speech League
Championship. •Commissioner Burlingame presented a Certificate of
Achievement recognizing Kaitlyn Connors of the Upper
St. Clair High School Girls Swim Team for achieving first place in the 100-yard Freestyle at the Western
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL)
Championship. •Commissioner Burlingame presented a Certificate of
Achievement recognizing Ganesh Sivaramakrishnan of the Upper St. Clair High School Boys Swim Team for achieving first place in the 100-yard Backstroke and the 100-yard Butterfly at the Western Pennsylvania
Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) Championship.
The Board
•Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0002 – Waffles
INCaffeinated – Outdoor Dining – Conditional Use
Approval. •Adopted Bill No. 5-22 Re. PLC22-0004 – Truxton
Subdivision Plan – Preliminary and Final Subdivision
Approval. •Adopted Resolution No. 1720 approving a Grant
Application through the Department of Community and
Economic Development to be used for the Morton Fields
Complex – Park Improvements Phase I Project. •Adopted Resolution No. 1721 approving a Grant
Application through the Redevelopment Authority of
Allegheny County Trail Development Fund for the Old
Farm Trail Project connecting with the Morton Complex/
Perimeter Trail. •Affirmed the 2022-2023 Planning Priorities for the remainder of 2022-2023 with the addition of sidewalks.
Approval of Contracts
•Commercial Turf Fertilization.........Year 2022: $46,544.00
Mars, PA.........................................Year 2023: $47,475.00
Pesticide Spray Program Category 7.....Year 2024: $48,424.00
USCHS Speech & Debate Team received a proclamation from Commissioner Richard Thomas.
Commissioner Todd Burlingame presented Ganesh Sivaramakrishnan and Kaitlyn Connors, pictured with their coach Dave Schraven, with Certificates of Achievement. June 6, 2022
Approximately 9 people attended
Recognition
•Commissioner Enck presented a Proclamation to Elisa
Tucker for attaining the Girl Scout Gold Award.
The Board
•Adopted Bill No. 6-22 Re. PLC22-0002 – Waffles
INCaffeinated – Outdoor Dining – Conditional Use
Approval.
Approval of Contracts
•Alpha Space Control Co., Inc. ......................... $46,975.00
Chambersburg, PA 2022 Pavement Markings Program •East West Manufacturing............................... $152,500.00
Pittsburgh, PA
Community & Recreation Center
Rooftop Unit #5 Replacement
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. For more information on accessibility, visit twpusc.org/accessibility.
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, Director of Information
Technology (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
Upper St. Clair Police Department 2022 Citizens’ Police Academy
The Upper St. Clair Police Department will be hosting its Citizens’ Police Academy this fall. This special opportunity is for adults at least 21 years old who live, work, or conduct business in Upper St. Clair. The weekly classes will primarily be held on Wednesday evenings (6:30 p.m.–9 p.m.) from September 28 to November 16, with the understanding that dates and times may be subject to change if required by the curriculum or related special activities. Participants will be notified if any modifications are made to the schedule. The course syllabus includes instruction and scenario-based training on various aspects of law enforcement and public safety.
Course Objectives/Overview:
• 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 selfdefense • 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 academy, but an application and supplementary documentation are required. Stop by the police department or visit the Township website at www.twpusc.org to apply. n
For more information, contact police administration, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., at 412-833-1113.
Megan Massey
Megan Massey joined the police department as the records specialist in March of 2022. Megan received her bachelor’s degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania where she dual majored in criminal justice and sociology. Ms. Massey began her career working as a program director for nonprofit agencies and most recently served Allegheny County as a telecommunications officer before joining USCPD. Welcome, Megan! n
Jammin’
So, where did you sit during your summer vacation? For many of us, the answer would be: in traffic!
Whether it was traversing the neighborhoods or a trip to Target, road construction this past summer made local travel an exercise in patience. With projects on highly traveled roads like Boyce, Mayview, McLaughlin Run, and Route 19 within the township, as well as projects in neighboring communities, traffic jams made allowing extra time to go anywhere a necessity.
Fortunately, many projects are completed, or nearly completed—so relax and enjoy the drive! n
Polls Open 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
Monday, October 24, 2022, 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 McLaughlin Run Activity Center–McLaughlin Run Road
3 2 St. Catherine Labouré business office (rear), (formerly known as St. Louise DeMarillac)–McMurray Road 3 3 McLaughlin Run Activity 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
2022 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection
Holiday Collection Date Labor Day.............................. Thursday, September 8 and Friday, September 9 Thanksgiving......................... Wednesday, November 23 and Friday, November 25
2022 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 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19; December 3.
