FALL 2023 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Robbins Bobbitt

Associate Broker

Bonnie Bagay

Marie Mageras

Del Burrell

Diane Horvath

Kathy McCloskey Renee Ringer

Kerrie Constantini

Frankie Kunselman

Shannon Rosenberry

Lauren Ganoe

Dana Logan

Jen Schalk

Janet Hensler

Chris Longenecker

Wendy Vespa

Suzy Voss

Jody Yurcich Izzy Zehner

Beth Thomas

Limauro, M.D.

Mark Cedar, D.O.

Nicholas Bellicini, D.O.

Xuong Lu, M.D.

Jungmin Leo Lee, M.D.

Lisa Oliva, D.O.

Robert J. Pagano, M.D.

Theresa Schuerle, D.O. • Bridger Clarke, M.D.

Here. For You.

Integrated Care Is Better Care

Dunlap Family Outpatient Center expands access to more comprehensive treatments for the St. Clair Health community.

The state-of-the-art facility is designed for seamless collaboration across disciplines, delivering enhanced coordination of care for patients like you.

From a full range of advanced imaging services to an optimal environment for the outpatient therapy experience, and more, St. Clair Health delivers:

Comprehensive, One-Stop Outpatient Services. Close To Home.

Services

• Cardiac Testing Center

• Diagnostic & Imaging Services

• Endoscopy Suites

• Medical Oncology & Infusion Center

• Occupational, Physical & Speech Therapy Services

• Operating Rooms

• Pre-Admission Testing Center

• Specialty Clinics in Cardiology, Orthopedics, Urology & Ophthalmology

• Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy

Learn more about Dunlap Family Outpatient Center by visiting stclair.org/dunlap

stclair.org

Expert care from people who care.

the Class of 2023

The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

Winter 2023 edition includes Holiday and Life Planning guides.

Deadlines:

Articles–September 21

Advertising–September 25

Website: twpusc.org/usctoday

Email: usctoday@usctoday.org

@usctoday

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 our community’s official magazine, please send a $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.

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 29 years of our publication.

The 115th 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.

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

Terry Kish, Editor-in-Chief

AnneMarie Kopach, Associate Editor

Sarah Beitler, Office Manager, Marketing & Advertising Executive

Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Student Interns

Caleb Guarino

Miriam Gutensohn

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the winter 2023 issue and will be published in November 2023. 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@usctoday.org

Article Information Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising Information

Office Manager Sarah Beitler phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592

Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org

Errata

On page 46 of the summer 2023 edition, Steel City Lawyer was erroneously listed as Stephen Biedrizycki. It should have been John Biedrzycki.

Board of School Directors Township Board of Commissioners

Dr. Daphna Gans, President

Jennifer A. Schnore, Vice President

Barbara L. Bolas

Kelly P. Hanna

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.

Michael R. Mascaro

Angela B. Petersen

Hallie H. Snyder

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large

Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1

Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2

Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3

Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4

Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5

Richard I. Thomas, At Large

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Cindy Brophy, Kaitlynn

Campbell, Lindsay Dill, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Chris Gmiter, Caleb Guarino (intern & YWG), Miriam Gutensohn (intern & YWG), Steve Henk, Erin Kelly, Dr. Mohammed Khan, Mary Kirk, David Kutschbach, Jay Lynch, Geoff McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Rep. Dan Miller, Alex Pepke, Elizabeth Reitz, Jim Render, Haley Roberts, Dr. Beth Troy, Tina Vojtko, and Tom Yochum.

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@usctoday.org to find out how your student can contribute.

The 115th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair.

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.

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@usctoday.org

Township: 412-831-9000

School District: 412-833-1600

Printed by Freeport Press 2127 Reiser Ave. SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663

Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844

Copyright © 1994–2023. All rights reserved.

Mark Mansfield Paul Fox Terry Kish AnneMarie Kopach Sarah Beitler Colleen DeMarco Kerry Turner

Dorothy Clark

Sincerely,

A Fall Note From the Publishers

Welcome to our fall issue of TODAY! While the days may tease us with memories of summer, autumn in all its glory is right around the corner.

School bells will soon be ringing, but this year, it will be a little later in the day than usual. Learn more about the changes to the school start and dismissal times in the school district pages (pages 22 to 45). This section is packed with information, from a recap of graduation and end-of-the-year activities to awards and accolades for the district’s staff and students, and more. Don’t miss the feature stories on girls’ athletics and be sure to read about the PTSO, PTO, and PTA unit presidents.

The township section (pages 54 to 70) is also filled with lots of news and updates. Read about Upper St. Clair’s first full-time fire chief, Ted Hale, and get updated on the renovations to the municipal building. Both the library and the recreation department have lots of fun activities planned for fall, so mark your calendar for your favorite events! Be prepared for the changes coming to Upper St. Clair’s trash and recycling program by reading the information found on page 57.

Also found in this issue are several wonderful articles by our volunteer writers. From a journey to the Dad Zone, to a look back at some questionable adolescent decision making, to a glowing recommendation of doctors and dentists who played football at USCHS, we’re sure you’ll find these tales informative and entertaining! We are happy to publicize your stories about life in this community we choose to call home. Contact us if you have an adventure or commentary you’d like to share.

Township Manager

Sincerely,

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Please take advantage of all our township and the surrounding area have to offer during this glorious time of year. Autumn in western Pennsylvania truly is something special! twpusc.org/usctoday

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Matthew R. Serakowski

Restore Hyper Wellness: Prioritize Well-Being at Restore Hyper Wellness

Restore Hyper Wellness, a locally owned franchise located in Upper St. Clair, has become a prominent wellness destination over the past four years. With a mission to make hyper wellness accessible and affordable for everyone, Restore Hyper Wellness offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance physical and mental well-being. As wellness becomes more mainstream, individuals are shifting their focus from reactive treatment to proactive, preventative health and wellness. Let’s explore how Restore has emerged as a leader in the wellness industry and has positively impacted the community of Upper St. Clair.

The Founders and the Franchise Journey

The concept of Restore Hyper Wellness was founded in Austin, Texas in 2015. Shortly thereafter, three childhood friends who were born and raised in the South Hills drew inspiration from the physical demands of college football and military service to bring the cutting-edge wellness concept to the Pittsburgh market. They established Restore Upper St. Clair in August 2019, which can be found in the Shops at Siena, just across the street from Whole Foods.

Services Offered by Restore Hyper Wellness

Restore Hyper Wellness offers an extensive range of services to support individuals on their wellness journey. These services include cryotherapy, red light therapy, infrared sauna, compression therapy, IV drip therapy, intramuscular shots, mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy, NAD+ IV therapy, biomarker assessments, Cryoskin, Hydrafacial™, and Circadia® Oxygen Facial. Each service is carefully designed to address specific wellness needs, providing comprehensive solutions to help individuals achieve their health goals.

The Hyper Wellness Experience

When visiting Restore Hyper Wellness, guests can expect a clean facility with modern equipment and a friendly staff that creates a welcoming atmosphere akin to family. Understanding that the concept of hyper wellness may be new to many, the team at Restore is dedicated to guiding customers through their wellness journey, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed from start to finish. The staff takes the time to explain the benefits of each treatment, recommend the best-fit options, and provide insights into what to expect, fostering a personalized and exceptional experience for every visitor.

Standout Treatments and Therapies

Among the wide array of services offered, several treatments have gained popularity and became standout choices among customers. Here are three services that Restore customers give the spotlight: NAD+ IV therapy , a breakthrough therapy that jump-starts cellular repair, rejuvenates energy levels and promotes overall well-being. The benefits of NAD+ IV therapy include boosted focus, energy, and cellular health, improved heart health and endurance, and accelerated healing of muscles and tissues.

IV drip therapy is a treatment that fuels your life and allows you to do more of what you love. IV drips at Restore Hyper Wellness infuse a liter of fluids with essential vitamins, nutrients, minerals, and amino acids to provide benefits that go far beyond water alone. Whether you’re looking to reduce cellular damage with vitamin C, support your body’s energy production with B12, or relax while promoting muscle health with magnesium, the extensive and customizable menu of drip ingredients provides ample opportunities to take your wellness further than you thought possible. This treatment hydrates and cleanses the body, replenishes vital nutrients, and maximizes performance and focus under the supervision of a medical professional.

Cryotherapy is an ancient practice, made for the modern age. Restore offers whole body cryotherapy sessions that last two to three minutes at temperatures as low as minus 220 degrees. Whole body cryotherapy may help optimize sleep, defy signs of aging, and boost overall energy.

With a range of standout treatments like NAD+ IV therapy, IV drip therapy, and cryotherapy, Restore Hyper Wellness offers individuals a comprehensive approach to their well-being. These treatments, along with the other services provided, contribute to the overall wellness of individuals by addressing specific needs and promoting optimal health. Whether it’s reducing inflammation, optimizing sleep, boosting energy, or defying the signs of aging, the innovative modalities offered at Restore Hyper Wellness empower individuals to feel their best and become the best version of themselves.

The positive impact of these standout treatments on the lives of customers is evident as they experience the transformative effects on their physical and mental well-being. Through the expertise and guidance of the dedicated professionals at Restore Hyper Wellness, individuals can trust that their journey towards optimal health is in capable hands.

Client receiving IV drip therapy

Client entering the whole body cryotherapy chamber

Community Engagement and Partnerships

Restore Hyper Wellness takes pride in actively engaging with the local community of Upper St. Clair. The franchise collaborates with various corporations on health and wellness days, offering unique ways to promote employee well-being. Through services like IV drips and compression therapy, Restore Hyper Wellness keeps health and wellness at the forefront of people’s minds.

And as a proud supporter of the local community, Restore offers an exclusive discount to high school athletes. Recognizing the importance of athletic performance and recovery, Restore Hyper Wellness aims to help young athletes recover faster, perform better, and reach their full potential. With this goal in mind, high school athletes can take advantage of a special offer that grants them a 50% discount on core services, the foundation of hyper wellness.

Core services, including whole body cryotherapy, local cryotherapy, compression therapy, infrared sauna, and red light therapy, are the cornerstones of enhancing recovery and overall well-being. These are the same treatments utilized by professional athletes to optimize their performance and accelerate their recovery. By offering high school athletes a discount on services, Restore empowers young athletes to access the same cutting-edge therapies that can support their athletic journey.

In addition to the discounted core services, high school athletes also receive member pricing on medical services. These services include mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy, IV drips, and intramuscular shots, which provide targeted support for injuries, inflammation, and fatigue. Restore aims to ensure that young athletes can receive the specialized care they need to recover from injuries, reduce inflammation, and replenish their energy levels. This enables them to return to the field faster and perform at their best.

By extending exclusive discounts to high school athletes, Restore demonstrates its commitment to supporting the local community and nurturing the well-being of young athletes. Through these services, athletes can experience the benefits of hyper wellness and discover firsthand how it can enhance their performance, recovery, and overall quality of life.

The dedicated professionals behind the Upper St. Clair franchise, including the chief medical officer, medical directors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and other employees, bring a wealth of qualifications, expertise, and genuine interest in the well-being of their customers.

Driving Growth and Staying at the Forefront

Restore Hyper Wellness remains at the forefront of the wellness industry by continuously researching and testing new modalities. The franchise actively seeks to introduce new services and technologies that align with their mission of providing

accessible and affordable health and wellness solutions to the community. Restore Hyper Wellness is poised to be a pioneer in bending the curve of aging at scale. By embracing growth and innovation, Restore Hyper Wellness ensures that the community of Upper St. Clair has access to the latest advancements in wellness.

Positive Impact on the Community

Since its inception, Restore Hyper Wellness has made a significantly positive impact on the lives of its customers in Upper St. Clair. By expanding the available options for wellness solutions, the franchise strives to address the issue of healthcare inaccessibility that plagues many individuals. Restore Hyper Wellness recognizes that everyone deserves access to a healthy lifestyle, and their hyper wellness program is designed to bridge the gap between health and wealth.

Prioritize Well-being at Restore Hyper Wellness

As more individuals realize the importance of prioritizing their well-being, Restore Hyper Wellness stands ready to guide them on their hyper wellness journey. With their 4-year anniversary approaching, Restore Hyper Wellness invites the community to celebrate and experience the transformative power of hyper wellness. From Thursday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Sept. 24, the franchise will host an open house and offer special anniversary event discounts and offers. It’s the perfect opportunity for individuals to explore the wide range of services and take a step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

In just four years, Restore Hyper Wellness in Upper St. Clair has become a go-to destination for those seeking transformative wellness solutions, driven by its mission to make hyper wellness accessible and affordable for all. Through a comprehensive range of services and a commitment to personalized care, Restore Hyper Wellness has positively impacted the community’s well-being. With the dedication of its founders, passionate staff, ongoing research and development initiatives, and active community engagement, Restore Hyper Wellness stays at the forefront of the wellness industry. As individuals in Upper St. Clair prioritize their well-being, Restore Hyper Wellness encourages them to embark on the hyper wellness journey and discover the transformative power of these services. Join the 4-year anniversary celebration and experience the path to optimal health and wellness at Restore Hyper Wellness in Upper St. Clair. n

Restore

Client receiving Normatec hip compression therapy

Client enjoying an infrared sauna session

Licensed to Misbehave

Jay Lynch

Understandably, many Upper St. Clair teens are in no hurry to get a driver’s license, as ride sharing apps and willing parents make it much easier to travel the community and enjoy events in the city. Back in 1970, when I was a USCHS junior, I couldn’t wait to get my license. I envied kids with licenses who could borrow their parent’s cars to cruise the township with their friends. They could even drive to local hangouts like the Hot Shoppes, where teens could inhale 15-cent cheeseburgers while listening to the latest songs from The Doors and The Rolling Stones. Even better, having a license would mean that I could impress a date with dinner at the Red Bull Inn in Dormont, followed by a blockbuster movie at the mall cinema, like “Catch 22;” or if she insisted, the painfully sappy “Love Story,” which could make a teenage boy toss his Junior Mints.

I applied for my learner’s permit the day I was eligible, memorized the rules of the road, passed the exams, and was issued a spiffy new Pennsylvania driver’s license. Life was good, as my parents let me borrow the family car as long as I met their conditions: “Follow the law and return it with a full tank of gas.”

My father was active in the community baseball program and one of the founders of today’s Founders’ Field, adjacent to the municipal building. At that time, the USC Athletic Association (USCAA) had a fancy name, but was made up of a few volunteer dads who were committed to starting organized baseball in the community as an alternative to sending players to programs in Mt. Lebanon or Bethel Park.

All four fields at that time (Municipal, Eisenhower, Fort Couch, and Johnston) featured infields of lumpy clay and rocks that made snagging grounders difficult and inflicted painful “strawberries” on players brave enough to slide. To remedy the situation, the founders passed the hat and purchased an inexpensive WWII-era Army truck to ease the burden of replacing the infields with the improved surface that’s in place today. They also used chains to attach rusty sewer grates to the back of the truck so they could “drag” the infields. Players sitting on the grates provided additional weight to smooth the playing surface. As you might imagine, pregame requests to act as ballast produced plenty of volunteers who gladly inhaled a little dust for a thrilling ride as the truck circled the infield, driven by my speed-happy father. However, player fun was confined to riding the grates, as my father made it clear that players were not allowed to drive the truck, even if they had a license. To us players the rule seemed like an arbitrary buzz kill, but there was an unstated reason for the prohibition—to prevent young drivers from arrest and hefty fines for operating an uninspected vehicle. The USCAA budget wouldn’t support the expense of adding seat belts or replacing the truck’s cracked windshield and rust-corroded seethrough floor, so my father rolled the dice and drove it illegally. He also parked it in our backyard, hidden from view.

As a 16-year-old with a freshly issued driver’s license and lazy summer afternoons, having a truck in the backyard was a daily source of temptation and the keys were on the workbench. I thought to myself, “What could be the harm in taking it for a little spin around the neighborhood? After all, the old man is at work, so he’ll never know it happened.” As a young Catholic, I knew God would be watching even if my father wasn’t,

but my transgression could be forgiven by a trip to the confessional. I tried to lighten the anticipated penance by getting approval from my always-permissive mother. However, she said, in a sing-songy way, “I-don’t-thinkit’s-a-good-i-dee-a.” Hardly approval, but it wasn’t a clear no. The plot thickened when I thought, “What fun is a joy ride without friends?” So, I hit the phone and recruited several co-conspirators who hightailed it to our house, seeking the sweet taste of forbidden fruit. I grabbed the keys off my father’s workbench while my buddies climbed into the truck’s rear bed. They stood tall and held the edge of the cabin roof as I drove out our back alley. Our plan was to make the adventure even more fun by adding a contest. I’d drive as wildly as possible, with sudden turns and stop/start staccato as they tried to hang on and remain vertical. The last guy standing would be declared the winner. The rear gate was partially missing, so there was the risk of falling off the back of truck, which made the game even more exciting. We had a wonderful time on the streets of Washington Terrace and even took a spin around Fort Couch field at excessive speed. Best of all, we returned to our back yard with no injuries and without using enough gas to significantly lower the gauge. All was well, until we saw my father’s car coming down the alley toward the backyard. He had come home from work early. We panicked. My buddies tried to quickly climb out of the truck bed and I made it half way out of the driver’s seat. But it was too late—we were busted.

My father got out of his car and calmly walked to the truck, where he felt the warm hood. Then, he stared at me. His face started to turn red and his neck vein popped

Baseball field maintenance vehicle in 1970...

...and today.

out, signs of an imminent outburst of foul language and harsh words. Like rats abandoning a sinking ship, my friends dismounted from the truck and tried to walk away, meekly offering Eddie Haskell style pleasantries like, “That’s quite a handsome necktie you’re wearing, Mr. Lynch. We’ll be leaving now.” To which my father responded, “Cut the crap and stay put. I want you to see this.” He told me to hand over my wallet, removed my driver’s license and tore it to shreds. Then, he removed my only other official document, a USC High School ID card, and ripped it to pieces as well. To my surprise, my normally boisterous father didn’t say another word. He just stormed off and went into the house, slamming the door behind him.

My friends were stunned that he had destroyed my much-coveted license and feared a similar fate as partners-in-crime. Our parents were friends, so news of improper behavior spread like wildfire. (Luckily, they only lost their driving privileges for a few days.)

When I returned to the house, I faced a very upset father, but he said he was more hurt and fearful than angry. Hurt because I violated his trust. Fearful because I was a novice driver operating a difficult to handle truck on public roads, endangering my friends and other drivers. He said I was willing to put other people’s lives at risk to satisfy my personal desire for fun, and that’s the definition of anti-social behavior. Of course, he was right. Our “last man standing” game put them in more danger than he realized.

My punishment included implicit car-less grounding as I waited for a replacement license, which, in those days, took several weeks. The application included three check-the-box reasons for replacement: lost, stolen, and other [explain]. I checked the “other” box and wrote, “Ripped to shreds by angry father.” My punishment was also labor intensive and financial. I had to double my grass cutting jobs to pay for seat belts, a new windshield, and new floorboards for the truck, as well as inspection fees.

Replacing my high school ID was a little more difficult than I had imagined. Anyone requesting a replacement card had to face the dreaded disciplinarian, Mr. Jackson. Having no idea how well he was tied into the grapevine, I fibbed and told him I lost my ID. He said, “That’s not what I heard, Mr. Lynch,” as he pressed me for details of my bad behavior. When I apologized (for the second time), he issued a replacement ID. My third apology was a perfect act of contrition in the confessional after Monsignor Rooney said, in his Boston dialect sing-song style, “You-should-a-listened-to-ya-maaa-tha!” n Feedback

The Art of Reimagining: Crafting Your Dream Kitchen Without a Home Addition

Geoff McQueen

When you think about your dream kitchen—that beautiful room with plenty of space to cook, sip your morning coffee, and share great moments with family and friends—you might assume your house would need an addition to fit everything.

Here’s a surprising fact we love to share with clients: additions aren’t always necessary to create exceptional cooking and dining spaces. By rethinking your current floorplan and making creative changes, you may be able to have all the functionality and amenities you want in the space you already own.

Dreaming and Planning

You don’t need design experience to begin thinking creatively about your space. The first steps are easy:

Discuss needs and wants. Do you cook often and make elaborate meals? How many people cook at one time? Do you want people to hang out at your island while you prep a meal? Is holiday entertaining important to you? My wife, Christine, grew up in the house that’s now our home, so she knew exactly what she wanted to change when we began our own remodel. Ask yourself: what does and doesn’t work about my current layout?

Think beyond today. You don’t want to design a space for a family of six without considering that three of them are leaving for college during the next few years. We help clients design rooms that fit how they live today and how they expect to be living over the coming years.

Sketch out ideas—even really unexpected ones. Next, measure your space. Then grab a pad and start sketching. You don’t have to draw the room to scale or make it perfect. Just start imagining. You’ll save time and money if you do this

before meeting with a designer or builder, because those folks won’t waste time drawing up potential plans that don’t serve your needs. During the design process, we present opportunities to clients— especially ideas they may not have thought of—but our clients are the experts on their homes. The more you know what you want (and don’t want), the better a builder can serve you.

Get really creative as you sketch. What if the appliances were in totally different places? And could you create the best possible dining and cooking areas by making your kitchen and dining room more connected? Back when “open concept” living was popular, the automatic answer was yes; remove the walls and create one big room.

These days, especially after the pandemic, true “open plan” living is less popular. People want to entertain and sit with their family in a space where they’re not competing with cooking or a TV screen. True dining rooms are making a comeback.

At the same time, there’s a need to increase space for cooking and entertaining without building a costly addition. The answer may be to take down just one wall or part of a wall to maximize use of your existing footprint. This way, you can invite more people to congregate. Cooking and entertaining are easier, and yet you’re not creating a true open concept space.

That’s what we did. Our dining room had four walls and a small doorway. We ate nearly every meal in the kitchen and rarely using the dining room. When it was time to build our dream kitchen, we took one wall down, giving our dining room a bit more breathing space. It still functions as a dedicated dining room, and now we eat at our dining room table as a family every night. We’ve maximized the usability of all of our square feet by rethinking a room that was always empty except during family parties.

Timing

Our clients love that we move quickly. We manufacture our

own custom cabinets and after so many years of refining our workflow, we’re efficient. But like so many builders, we used to ask people to make all their design decisions early. Over time, we’ve learned that making every decision on day one isn’t always the best method.

Especially with things like light fixtures and backsplashes, it’s hard to make decisions in a showroom. When it came to doing it for ourselves, we realized: whoa, slow down!

Appliances have to be chosen early, of course, because we design everything around those things. Everything else can be customized, but appliances are static. And though the supply chain slowdown has improved, certain industries— especially appliance makers—are still catching up. Our partners at Don’s Appliances do probably the best job in the Pittsburgh region at averting those delays around appliances. They’re our go-to for getting the appliances our customers want on the schedule we need. But depending where you buy, lead times can be long.

So, choose appliances first, then other big items like cabinetry and countertops— and then take a breath. Let some of the installation begin, then choose the final details. See how your new countertops catch the morning light and then pick the perfect backsplash.

There’s nothing like seeing a client walk into their fully renovated dream kitchen for the first time. If there’s a kitchen remodel in your future, we hope it’s a great experience! n

To learn more, visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com and be sure to follow along on social media. See their ad on page 15.

Photo credit: Erin Kelly

The Dad Zone

Tom Yochum

On Father’s Day I was dutifully manning the weedwhacker in our front yard when an older neighbor walked along and quipped, “They’re putting you to work today, huh?” Almost automatically, I replied, “No, no, I love it. Just happy to have some time out here. You know how it is.”

He gave a sage nod and said, “Yes, son, I know how it is. And, I think you do, too.” He continued on his way and I was left a little baffled by this cryptic exchange. As I returned to the edging, I heard eerie music drift in: da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da. Suddenly, a voice: You have entered another dimension. A dimension not only of sight and sound, but of mind. A journey into the suburban land of fatherhood. Next stop, the Dad Zone!

The narrator continued, You are looking at Act One, Scene One, of a revelation—an unmasking not restricted to the witching hours of dark…

I looked around, somewhat panicked, but my neighbor had vanished. What was happening? I’d been a father for a few years, but had never heard of the Dad Zone. Fatherhood was something I’d embraced, but this felt ominous. Do I tell Dad jokes? Of course. Have a Dad bod? No comment. The Dad Zone, though, seemed to imply something deeper and more entrenched.

If you don’t believe it, ask yourself, the very one who handles the weed-whacker—in the Dad Zone!

There was a vast, untended yard before me and time for reflection, so I set out to get some answers. I was well-aware of the signs that I’d reached my forties. My Father’s Day gifts had included SPF 100 sunscreen and new readers. But, you know, I still went to concerts and late dinners with friends, provided I’d had my afternoon nap. My wife and I laughed at all those Progressive ads about becoming your parents. Sure, some of my priorities and interests had changed in recent years, but that was to be expected. As I hunted for errant dandelions, though, I started to question my reality. How “Dad” was I?

You’re witnessing your future, if not knocking, at least scratching plaintively on a closed door.

I looked at the yard again and began to wonder if landscaping was now one of my major hobbies. Admittedly, lawncare constitutes an unhealthy chunk of my identity and self-worth. I’m not sure when I started taking such pride in perfect mow lines. But

every dad has secretly fantasized about getting a crack at cutting the outfield at PNC Park, right? Our lawns are merely our own little ballfields. And, sure, I love spending a nice little Saturday at Home Depot while my wife and kids are out, but that’s normal. Seeds and sprays and stains, oh my! My wife only occasionally has to pull me back from the window each spring as I admire a neighbor’s mulch. I’ve never met mulch I didn’t want to bed. OK, maybe this wasn’t a good place to start.

You’re taking the longest walk of your life, right down to the center of the Dad Zone!

I crept around the side of the house and spied the garage, a refuge and place of pride for any suburban father. Somewhere along the line it had transformed into a carbon copy of the one from my childhood, with tools, bikes, scooters, and sports equipment lining every wall and beyond. I’d recently purchased new shelving units and spent days organizing my domain. It was now like a mini-Costco: Camping section to the back, just past Lawn & Garden and next to Miscellaneous! You can almost see the tents and lawn chairs behind Stuff We’ll Never Use Again, But Haven’t Thrown Out. If we wanted to, we could definitely (probably) fit a compact car in our two-car garage. Right next to the Minnie Mouse Power Wheels Jeep. Yeah, this was a Dad space, but it was just stuff, it didn’t represent me.

Before heading inside, I noticed a car zoom down our street, going way too fast. Instinctively, I barked, “Slow down!” Hmm, when did that start? Maybe when young hooligans started drag racing down our street at 15 mph! Obviously, unsafe driving is a genuine concern, especially near kids and pets, but I knew my reaction was part of this metamorphosis. I recalled a line from an old sociology text: “General commenting on anything irksome seems to grow more pronounced (and vocal) during the evolution

of the species Americanus Dadus.” It can spring up anywhere, but, for me, this usually entails colorful advice for “terrible” drivers. And I often look to my toddlers in the backseat for validation and support. Just recently I’d asked my girls, “Can you believe that [edited] [redacted]?!,” to which my youngest responded, “Dada, what’s a nimrod?”

Well, I might be a middleaged crank with deep-seeded lawn issues (Dad joke, yikes!), but had I truly entered the Dad Zone? I went inside to search for more definitive answers. Inside, to my comfortable, climatecontrolled house. And there was the refutation I sought. I’m no cliché of a dad maniacally controlling the family thermostat. It’s possible there is some lingering PTSD from my father’s reaction to seemingly imperceptible temperature fluctuations. Back then, we were pretty set in the 60s, whether it be the dead of winter or height of summer. Whenever possible, no system was running. That’s not me. In summer I’m the cool dad and in winter I’m the hot dad. (Ugh. Gotta stop those jokes.) I mean, I’ve even debated leaving the AC on while we’re on vacation so the kids aren’t uncomfortable upon our return. For at least one night a year, though, I want my kids to know the feeling of sweating the sheets, like their forefathers (or at least father) before them.

Some people should quit when they’re ahead. Today’s tale of energy and irony delivered from the Dad Zone.

Electrons are another matter! Well, actually, the flow of electrons, or electricity. In this department, I’m pretty old school. There had better be someone in each room where a light is on… and doing something that requires illumination. “Can’t you read by candlelight, sweetie? It’s almost as effective, and fairly safe now that you’re five.” I once shut off a bedroom light, not realizing our almost three-year-old daughter was playing in there, before I heard her exclaim, “You darked me, Dad!” Whoops.

Da-da-da-da, da-da-dada! Respectfully submitted from a crowded gathering on a parking lot that is one of the paths leading to the Dad Zone.

That night we were set to attend a local fair and I already knew what lay ahead. From concerts to Kennywood to sporting events, I’d discovered that

my kids and I judge our outings differently. While they are mainly concerned with minor details, like how much fun they’re having, I’m almost solely focused on the most important element of a successful event: the parking situation. And I have fully embraced the time-honored mantra of dads everywhere: leave early. It’s conceivable that, until they are living on their own, my children will

never experience the last pitch of a baseball game or an encore at a concert. To younger readers, if you’re not ready to beat the traffic, you’re not ready to be a dad. The girls, so sweet and naïve, were excited for the fair, but I knew what was coming: other people! Even for a Super-Dad, long lines and crowds are kryptonite. We got there early though, and snagged an excellent parking spot. And, just my terrible luck, there was no line for the ATM when we arrived, so I could withdrawal all kinds of money in relative privacy. The kids knew the car was nearby and backed in for an easy exit, so they could really let their hair down on all the rides. And while playing all the games. And eating all the food. And waiting in line to buy more tickets. Despite the eventual crush of humanity, everyone had a great time. We left with plastic trinkets, stuffed animals, and memories—all of them priceless. And, best of all, we left before those other suckers, while the sun was still out!

As I replayed the day in my head, the evidence was clear: I was in the Dad Zone. A world where both corny jokes—Dad-isms— and well-meaning advice will result in exaggerated groans. One in which you attempt to introduce your kids to all the cool things you’re passionate about, while being simultaneously mystified by the obsessions they land on. A dimension that can often be chaotic and confusing, but one that you want to last forever. I’m not sure I can ever shake my desire to beat traffic, but when it comes to my girls, all I desire is for time to slow down and to be better able to cherish each moment. Ultimately, that’s all the evidence I needed to welcome my place in the Dad Zone! n

Couldn’t happen, you say? Probably not in most places, but it did happen—in the Dad Zone. Da-da-da-da, da-da-da-da.

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Troy Orthodontics

Beth Troy, DMD

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Troy

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

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Never Too Early to Check-in

Dr. Beth Troy, Troy Orthodontics

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist at age seven. Children who are still growing can have positive orthodontic results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have completed their growth.

Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontic treatment, using appliances that direct the growth relationship of the upper and lower jaws. A good dental foundation can be established, providing enough room for eruption of all permanent teeth. This early correction may prevent later removal of permanent teeth to correct overcrowding and/or surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy too severe to achieve an ideal result with braces alone. The disadvantage of waiting for complete eruption of permanent teeth and having only one phase of treatment for someone with a jaw discrepancy is facing the possibility of a compromised result that may not be stable.

The goal of this first phase of treatment is to develop the jaw size in order to accommodate all the permanent teeth and to relate the upper and lower jaws to each other. Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper and lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized at an early age. After age six, if children are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they may be candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic records will be necessary

to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time, and the frequency of visits.

At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth may not be in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase. Periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis.

The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. The second phase of orthodontics typically involves wearing a full set of braces, usually for two years.

Since children have growth potential, we strongly recommend they see an orthodontist by age seven. Early correction of crossbites, underbites, and overbites can be more predictable. Although no treatment may be necessary at that time, it is important to develop a plan and understand your child’s future orthodontic needs. n

See ad for Troy Orthodontics on page 18.

Teaching Kids How to Save for College

College tuition continues to increase every year, so it’s important to start saving for college as early as you can. Getting your kids involved when they’re young can help them form valuable savings habits and alleviate some of your financial burden. These steps can help you get started.

Divvy Up Their Pennies

Decide with your child how much of every dollar they earn will go toward spending, saving, etc. Set up separate banks for each category and help them split their earnings. This can simultaneously teach them to save for long-term needs and to spend only within their means.

Reward Saving

Children might be more encouraged to save with a little incentive. At the end of every month, match all or part of what your children have saved, so they can watch their money grow even more.

Take a Field Trip Together to the Bank

Go old school and regularly deposit your children’s cash and coins in person. They can experience the savings process firsthand and they can see how their money grows. If you utilize an online savings account, then act as the banker. Set a regular deposit date when your kids will bring you their allotted savings, and put that amount in their accounts.

Suggest Cash Gifts from Relatives

If eager gift givers are looking for another idea, mention contributing to your kids’ savings accounts or giving money. If it’s the latter, remind your kids to divide it up according to their spending and saving categories.

Look for Non-institutional Scholarships

Yes, there are scholarships available as early as elementary school. Essay contests, science awards, and more may come with cash prizes. If your child receives award money right away, consider investing it in a tax-advantaged college savings account. n

Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on this page.

Coach’s Corner

To Your Good Health Coach

When I have been introduced to many sports people and followers of high school football, the question I have been asked the most is, “How many of your guys went on to play in the NFL?”

My answer is short and quick. John Bruno punted for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1987 National Football League strike-shortened season. Our most famous football alum, Sean Lee, had a great career as a captain and Pro Bowl linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys. Upper St. Clair graduates Jack Maitland, Craig Dunaway, Mark Bataglia, and Jeff Delaney all played in the NFL, but they were before my tenure at USC.

I have often remarked, and written on these TODAY pages, that my USC professionals come in the form of lawyers, architects, financial wizards, major construction builders, front office executives, insurance leaders, real estate developers, and U.S. military officers. If you have not already read about this group of pros, please believe me when I tell you they are Hall of Fame quality individuals in their careers.

Did I forget to mention doctors in that illustrious group? How can you forget the people who take care of you? Today, I want to introduce five former players who serve as my medical staff. They are all Upper St. Clair graduates who, following medical school, have chosen to live and practice medicine in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Although they have different areas of expertise and emphasis, they share some very important qualities. These guys were not all-conference football players, but they were superior teammates and contributors to the success of our team. They believed in my favorite motivational phrases including “Chance Favors the Prepared,” “Do Right,” “Focus,” and “Prepare to Win.”

I was able to get the five of them together (at Pizzaz) for a fun night of reminiscing and friendly bantering. There were also some serious moments. They all mentioned their teammates and spoke highly of the team leaders. The word intensity was used more than once. Medical school and residency are not for the timid or weak. Maybe the toughness of football—practice and games—helps prepare a person for the rigors of becoming a doctor. With that, please meet the doctors who take care of me.

Dr. Dennis J. Phillips, USCHS 1984

When DJ was in eighth grade at St. Louise de Marillac, I recruited him to play football at USC. I knew his dad, Denny, for several years, as he was a football official in our conference when I was the coach at Uniontown. Furthermore, Denny’s father, Dick, was the clock operator for Mt. Lebanon’s home games.

Unfortunately, Denny died from cancer at the young age of 41, on a Friday night as we were warming up for a game. It became my responsibility to inform DJ that his father had passed. Denny’s wife, Patty, became a young widow with the responsibility of raising DJ and his five siblings: brothers Patrick, Peter, and Michael, and sisters Laura and Amy. All the boys played football and Patty, now retired and living in Hilton Head, S.C., was a very supportive mom.

Following high school, DJ went to Marietta College and then to the Medical College of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Dr. James McMaster, a renowned USC and Pittsburgh orthopedic surgeon, was a great mentor and advisor who encouraged DJ to follow in his footsteps. So, next was residency at Louisiana State University and a fellowship in sports medicine in Richmond, Va., followed by private practice at LSU. Seventeen years after his high school graduation, Allegheny Health Network brought him home to Pittsburgh in 2001. That same year, he became the team doctor for our USC Panther football team, a position he still maintains today. In 2002, he became one of AHN’s doctors for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Part of spring training in Bradenton, Fla., and some of the home games at PNC Park are included in his busy schedule.

DJ and his wife, Susan, have raised seven kids: Samantha (Sam), Libby, Dennis III (Trey)—who is now a Green Beret, Cooper, Maddie, Katie, and Cam, who will be a wide receiver this fall for the Panthers.

Unbeknownst to her, Sam gave me a great life lesson when she was a student in my physical education class years ago. Feeling down about myself because I was told that I was a type II diabetic and would have to take a pill or two every day, I asked Sam, a type I diabetic, “How is it going managing your diabetes?” With a big smile on her face and a very positive outlook, she said, “I just have to give myself five insulin shots a day, but all is well.” Foolish Jim hasn’t complained, nor felt sorry for himself since that day.

DJ, an outstanding doctor according to Pittsburgh Magazine, has treated my muscle and joint abnormalities with cortisone and tough love. He is always ready, willing, and very able.

Dr. Joseph Richetti, USCHS 1984

When Dr. Walter Willoughby, our team doctor and my personal care physician, retired in 2003, I was looking for a looking for a primary care provider (PCP). Dr. DJ Phillips told me that I should go to his teammate and classmate, Dr. Joe Richetti. I thought that was a great idea and immediately contacted his office. There was no hesitation on my part; in fact, it has been one of my best decisions. Regarding my previously mentioned Type II diabetes, Joe routinely scolds, encourages, and monitors my numbers. Quite honestly, I do not want to go into his office

Jim Render

Chris Manning, DJ Phillips, John Haspel, Jim Render, Jeff Manning, Joe Richetti

Dr. DJ Phillips

having gained weight or have my blood sugar numbers be elevated, as I have been warned about medical consequences. Maybe he didn’t want to disappoint me on the football field, but I sure as heck don’t want to disappoint him as my doctor.

When Joe graduated from high school, he knew he wanted to go to the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. He majored in biochemistry and graduated in three years. He worked in the research lab in 1988 while going to medical school from 1988 to 1992. Joe did his residency at UPMC from 1992 to 1995. In 1995, he became a founder of Pittsburgh Internal Medicine, which is now under the UPMC umbrella. In short, he always wanted to serve people through medicine.

Joe was raised by Joseph and Rafelina, who were in the pizza business in Bethel Park. His siblings were Fran, Sandra, and Lisa. Joe and his wife, Cory, married in 1993, and have raised Carissa (27), Joseph (23), Mikaela (21), and Paige (18). His close friends are still USC football teammates and he has fond memories of those years. They often talk of the 1982 New Castle game and singing on the bus ride home. Dr. Joe is the way to go. Dr. John Haspel, USCHS 1991

Dr. Haspel is my dentist. I get outstanding attention when I am in his building. He even takes me back to his private office for a chat about football, life, or to vent; we both get things off our chest. John has a unique problem—he is always surrounded by women. He was raised with two sisters, Angie and Kara. He has been married to Karin, a 1993 USC grad, for 18 years. They have two daughters, Ava (17) and Mia (14). When John arrives at work, he has a staff of seven ladies. So, it is not that I am special, it is just that I do provide a male perspective.

Make no mistake, Dr. Haspel is an outstanding dentist. I sometimes tell him he is too meticulous. As soon as he thinks things are okay in my mouth, he decides he wants to take a second look or do another X-ray. His support staff of hygienists are well prepared and very supportive of their boss.

John attended the University of Kentucky and majored in biology. Next was dental school at West Virginia University, graduating in 1999. This was followed by one year of residency in Martinsburg Hospital in W. Va. He began his life’s work by joining his father, also John, at his established practice on Fort Couch Road. Can you have a better mentor than your own dad? They worked together for 15 years before his father retired. Along with his wife, Bonny, the elder Dr. Haspel resides in Florida most of the

year. Combined, the Haspels are into their 55th year of successful dental work in the same building.

Johnny is very proud of being a contributing member of our 1988 and 1989 WPIAL championship teams, which includes the 15-0 state champs in ’89. He gives much credit to his teammates for their composure and leadership. He keeps me smiling, literally and figuratively, in so many ways.

Dr. Jeffery Manning, USCHS 1994

Let me begin by saying I have had a lot of experience sitting in dental chairs. I now know Jeff Manning much more up-close and personal than when he was a student at USCHS. He is a periodontist—a specialist in gum disease, including extractions and implants. Jeff is a very skilled surgeon. I became his patient when Dr. Haspel suggested that I see Dr. Manning. My choices were to listen or suffer the consequences. I think I have had two of everything, from root canals to implants to gum restoration. Listen to your periodontist when they tell you gum disease is common among people with either diabetes or heart disease. Strokes and high stress also may be related to gum disease.

Jeff went to Pitt as a business major, which he discovered was not for him. He took two additional years of science and got into Pitt’s School of Dentistry in 2000, graduating in 2004. A three-year residency at Pitt followed. He has been with Oakland Periodontal Associates for 16 years. They have offices in Upper St. Clair as well. He does hands-on teaching at Pitt on Thursday afternoons.

Jeff met his wife, Amanda, in dental school. They have two children, Will, a rising senior, and Lexi, a freshman at USCHS. Jeff is the son of parents Elaine and Jim, who was a radiologist. His brothers are Jim Jr., Mike, and Chris. Speaking of Chris: Dr. Christopher Manning, USCHS 1991

Like John Haspel, Chris was a member of some very good football teams during his high school years. He speaks glowingly of the comeback victory over North Hills, on national television, in 1989. After graduation from USCHS he attended Washington and Jefferson and majored in biology. In 1995, he entered Pitt Medical School and graduated in 1999. Next was five years of residency at Pitt, followed by a one-year fellowship specializing in hand and upper extremities. I have not had the need to go under his scalpel, but I have heard many times that he is an excellent surgeon, treating shoulders to fingertips. He has been with South Hills Orthopedic Surgery Associates since 2005. He is also associated with UPMC South Hills Surgery Center, as well as the staff at the Radiance Surgery Center on Boyce Road.

Chris lives in Upper St. Clair with his wife Maria, a USC grad, and their four children: Niko, who attends Bucknell University, Tomasina, a rising senior, Francesca, a freshman, and soon-to-be Boyce student Georgia.

In conclusion, I must add that there are more USCHS graduates, men and women, who are now excellent doctors. The five mentioned in this article are good people who are taking great care of me. I also have a couple of other specialists—but they didn’t play football!

All my doctors are just like farmers...outstanding in their fields.

Here’s to your good health! n

Dr. Joe Richetti Dr. Chris Manning and Dr. John Haspel

Upper St. Clair School District

Board of School Directors

To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, and follow the automated directions.

School District Central Office Administration

School District Building Administration

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 uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Jennifer A. Schnore Vice President jschnore@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*

Hallie H. Snyder hsnyder@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. lmafrice@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

Angela B. Petersen apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

Michael R. Mascaro mmascaro@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*

Kelly P. Hanna khanna01@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel dwetzel@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*

Barbara L. Bolas bbolas@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

The list of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Director 2023 meeting dates is available on the District’s website: uscsd.k12.pa.us/schoolboard. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. in the district administration building.

New School Start/Dismissal Times

This past May, the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors approved a plan to revise the school start/dismissal times beginning this fall. This change is based on a growing body of scientific evidence that supports the importance of adequate sleep for the overall well-being and academic success of students.

The chart below includes the approved start/dismissal times for elementary, middle, and high school students. These times are effective with the start of the 2023-24 school year.

Research shows that later school start times can help children/adolescents get enough sleep, in order to improve their health, academic performance, and quality of life. Studies have made a correlation between later school start times and improved attendance and graduation rates, as well as academic achievement.

A section of the district’s website is dedicated to the newly approved start/dismissal times. For more information, visit: uscsd.k12.pa.us/domain/1060. n

Looking at a Later Start

Miriam Gutensohn, TODAY Intern

An exciting change will take place for all students in the Upper St. Clair School District for the upcoming school year. Whether students are beginning their first day of kindergarten or their last year of high school, the starting times for all schools in the district will be pushed back by half an hour for the high school and twenty minutes for the elementary and middle schools.

On May 17, the schedule change was approved by the school board, which ensured that no valuable class time was lost due to the new starting times. After recent improvements in bus routing, the new schedule will also have limited impact on athletics and after-school activities. Moreover, the decision is backed by scientific evidence in relation to the growing concern for the importance of ample sleep for students. While this adjustment may not seem substantial, students will experience the impact that this change will have on their daily routines and habits.

From a student’s perspective, a later starting time can be viewed as a benefit or as something to negatively take advantage of. Depending on the student, the new schedule may allow them to get a longer night’s sleep, which scientists have found can help with the rapid intellectual and emotional growth that occurs during students’ educational years in school. Additional sleep also goes a long way toward improving students’ concentration and academic performance in their classes. Research shows that they will feel more alert and think much more clearly.

One high school student expressed their thoughts on the new schedule by stating, “It is definitely a step in the right direction,

and students will surely gain something from the change.”

Research has found that one’s long-term health and well-being can improve from this minute alteration. Most students do not receive enough rest to accommodate the physical and mental stress that they often experience at school. Some students may even face more serious outcomes due to a lack of sleep, including depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts. What is more, students with inadequate rest are more likely to become perpetrators of bullying and to bring inadvertent physical harm to others.

Still, a few students may view the novel schedule differently. Older high school students may be tempted to use the new starting times to stay up even later than they previously would have, since they will have half an hour longer until school starts. Many would advise these students to weigh the benefits of adequate sleep over the pleasure of staying up later into the night, especially when high school students are currently in some of the most important years of their education.

The big and small decisions that students make now can set them up for success in the future. By choosing to gain sufficient sleep, students may see greater achievements in school, which can positively impact the course of their lives and careers after high school. Whether this course entails college or an alternative pathway, the benefits of proper sleep are clear, and students will have the opportunity to take hold of these advantages in the fall with Upper St. Clair School District’s new starting times. n

Upper St. Clair High School awarded diplomas to the 333 members of the school’s Class of 2023 during commencement ceremonies on June 8, 2023, in the high school’s stadium. TODAY extends its best wishes to all the graduates! See pages 24–26 for graduation speeches from the school district’s superintendent, board president, and selected student speakers. n

USCHS 2023 Commencement Speakers

We are here today to express our heartfelt gratitude for the love that has been extended to each and every one of us, the graduating seniors. Throughout our journey, we have been fortunate to receive abundant love and support, and we are truly thankful for the opportunities that have enabled us to both receive and share this love with others over the past four years.

Maura Joyce, student council president

As this chapter closes, let us remember all of the ways that this place has changed us and all of the lessons we learned in the classroom and outside of it.

Marina Gzikowski, senior class president

From the chaotic frenzy of the first day of freshman year, when we didn’t know where our classes were, to the end of senior year, where every nook and cranny of that school building now holds a memory, we have been on a whirlwind journey of growth and selfdiscovery. Yet, through these highs and lows, through the challenges and triumphs, the true power of unity persevered, and I believe it is essential to appreciate the lives we have built here.

Ashvita Saxena, senior speaker

As we look back at our high school years, we will remember everyone who held countless doors and opportunities open for us, like our parents, teachers, counselors, and school administrators that gave us the support we needed to make it here today. After we walk out this last door together, is so important

that we continue to look for that next door and remain brave enough to open it, even if we don’t know exactly what lies behind it.

Jasmine Dietiker, senior speaker

So, as we all leave our den to find our place in the world, I want all of you to know that you are prepared to take on any challenge the world throws at you. Thanks to dear old Upper St. Clair, it’s truly a great day to be a Panther.

Ansh Goyal, senior speaker n

The complete text for all the graduation speeches can be found on the TODAY website at: twpusc.org/community/usc_today_ magazine/index.php

Photos courtesy of Tina Vojtko, USCSD Communications Specialist

Superintendent’s Speech

Class of 2023, as we gather here to celebrate your achievements, I want to take a moment to reflect on the path that has led us to this point. I have had the privilege of witnessing the growth and development of this exceptional class. From the first day of kindergarten to this special occasion, I have seen you mature and grow, not only academically, but also as individuals ready to take on the world.

You are an integral part of the success of our school district. There are 500 school districts in Pennsylvania. Just last week, Upper St. Clair was named Pennsylvania’s top school district for the second year in a row. You are the most important element of our recipe for success—which includes great students, talented and dedicated staff, unmatched parent support and engagement, and a community that has the utmost value for education.

Although it is trite to say, Class of 2023, it seems like just yesterday that you entered the doors of Baker, Eisenhower, and Streams elementary schools as kindergarten students. Since that time in the fall of 2010, much has changed in our world. The seniors who graduated when you were just starting school had a vastly different experience than you. If the world was the same today as when you began your school career, your lives would look and feel quite differently.

For instance:

• The first iPad was introduced the same year you began kindergarten and Chromebooks hit the market as you entered first grade.

• The seniors at the high school when you were in kindergarten did not have Instagram or Snapchat, as neither had yet been invented.

• TikTok did not surface until you were in middle school.

• Video conferencing capabilities flourished when Zoom entered the market in 2011 and Google Meet launched in 2017. Both were critical as we transitioned to remote learning and more industries embraced the flexibility of remote work.

• Venmo was not a payment option until 2012. If you owed a friend money or needed to pay for a ticket to a game or event, you actually had to carry cash.

• I know that many of you like to place mobile orders for Starbucks, Dunkin’ and Chick-fil-A. DoorDash, Uber Eats, and mobile ordering were not available yet.

Needless to say, when you first stepped foot into kindergarten, our society was on the cusp of transformation. The world around us has experienced a profound technological shift and you have been immersed within this evolution. Technology has indeed revolutionized the way we live, learn, and connect with one another.

As we gather here to celebrate your accomplishments, we recognize that you are our next generation of leaders. Your high school years have been nothing short of unique. You have exhibited

resilience, adaptability, and a remarkable ability to embrace change. These qualities will serve as the foundation for your future endeavors. Whether you enter higher education, the military, the workforce, or pursuing your passions, remember that the world needs your leadership now more than ever. Do not shy away from the challenges that lie ahead; instead, see them as opportunities to grow, learn, and shape a better future for us all.

None of us has a crystal ball and knows what the future holds. But what I can say for certain is that much more will change in our world over the next 13 years than during your time as students in our schools.

I know that I can speak for all the fellow parents and family members, and tell you that we have mixed emotions about you graduating high school. We are incredibly proud of your individual and collective resumes. We are eager and excited to watch what the next chapter holds for each of you. At the same time, we are a bit anxious. Not due to absence of confidence in you; rather, because we love and care about you very much and only want you to be happy, healthy, and safe. You see, to us, despite your transformation into young, accomplished emerging adults, we still envision that image from the fall of 2010 when our little five-year-olds walked across the threshold into kindergarten for the first time.

To close this evening, I want to share a few final thoughts that I hope you remember.

I am certain that you are prepared to enter the world of adulthood. How do I know that? Because you are Upper St. Clair Panthers. Always be proud of where you are from, for it is indeed a special place. While this may be the last time all 333 of you are together in person, please stay connected with your friends and classmates—for you are our future. As I said earlier, technology has changed much of our lives in many ways. However, the research is clear, the power of strong and meaningful relationships with others remains the key to success and happiness.

Congratulations, Upper St. Clair High School Class of 2023! May you carry the lessons and experiences of your time as Upper St. Clair students into the next segment of your lives. The world is waiting for and needing your leadership. I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion and make us proud. n

USCHS Class of 2023 Academic Achievers

Congratulations to the Class of 2023 valedictorians: Delaney Andrejcik, Aashna Banerjee, Jasmine Dietiker, Lily Gessel, Ansh Goyal, Morgan Huzjak, Cassidy Jordan, Julia Kania, Ava Keating, Raniya Kethavath, Rebecca Lang, Jenna Mantel, Phillip Markovitz, Carter McClintock-Comeaux, Anna McElligott, Quinton Miller, Mariah Rainier, Maanasa Reddy, Sarah Robert, Ashvita Saxena, Lauren Starr, Cole Super, and Benjamin Wasson; and IB Diploma candidates: Mariam Abdel-Messih, Vanessa Benonis, Nitin Chandran, Jasmine Dietiker, Markella Jahn, Raniya Kethavath, Eunchae Kim, Jason Lu, Patrick Pinchinat, Srinidhi Rajaganapathy, Tyler Riemer, Ashvita Saxena, Elisa Tucker, Yanzhe (Andrew) Xu, and Daniel Young.

USCHS Class of 2023 valedictorians (pictured above, listed alphabetically)

Dr. John Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools

Dr. John Rozzo

Daphna Gans

I started my work on this graduation speech like one would any other piece of writing. I sat at my desk, I made sure the light was just the right level of brightness, the thermostat was set to the perfect temperature, put my phone on silent to minimize distraction, opened my MacBook, and started to do some research. And then, I began to type… www.chat.OpenAI.com into the search bar, so I could ask ChatGPT to suggest what I should include. To my surprise, it wrote a full speech. And the speech was surprisingly not bad. In fact, it was the quintessential graduation speech, hitting every note you’d expect.

Congratulations to the class of {insert year}, celebrate your achievements, look toward the future, face challenges with grit and resilience… It even had a noncontroversial quote.

While it might have sounded right, it did not feel right. And not just for the obvious ethical reasons.

It did not feel right because it did not capture the intangible. It did not capture the essence of the Upper St. Clair School District. It did not capture the nature of each of you, the graduates of this year, this cohort, this group of individual young adults, each representing an entire world. (And, it certainly did not have “the voice”—the elusive concept many of you had to uncover during the writing of your college essays).

Board Response

Dr. Daphna Gans, President, Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors

It got me thinking. Is artificial intelligence, AI automation, really going to change your future in radical ways we cannot even imagine? And if the answer is yes, have we—collectively, as your parents, your teachers, your coaches, your educators—have we prepared you for such a future?

I can spend this precious time I have with you today to tell you how this new frontier of artificial intelligence will drastically change your jobs, your careers, your futures. But the truth is, every generation in history has faced an unpredictable future. Some of these unforeseen events are naturally occurring, some are humanmade. Some may be life altering and threatening, others may be exciting and open new opportunities. Some events affect a local group, others are global.

But what the past few years have taught us is that life is more complex than even the most advanced set of algorithms. We can develop predictive models that will address every what-if scenario we can think of, we can attempt to prepare as best we can. But we will always face uncertainty.

And at the end of the day, the only way out, is through. There are no short cuts. There are no cheat codes to life.

And the good news is that I genuinely believe that your time here at the Upper St. Clair School District has equipped you with the skills to not only face an unpredictable unprecedented future, not only pivot and adapt, but to thrive in it. I would go even one step farther. The Upper St. Clair School District modeled to you how to be a leader, an innovator, a problem solver in times of unprecedented health and social circumstances. We made decisions, we acted, and many times, we needed to debug our program and restart.

But we kept learning and growing together.

Your high school career started with school closures and online learning, continued with a hybrid learning modality in 10th grade, a return to school with some modifications for your junior year, and finally, a typical senior year. Yet, through hard work, collaboration with others, and outside-the-box thinking, each of you was able to not only fulfill your academic potential and excel, but also pursue your athletic, artistic, and creative life goals.

As a collective, a group, you even started some new school traditions such as the redesigned global education week. You formed new clubs, such as Esports and Spikeball. Many of you were involved in promoting mental health awareness and programming in our high school by founding the Minding Mindsets club, and along with the Wellness committee, formed Stand Together. And beyond shaping your own school community, many of you volunteered to help senior citizens in the larger community of the township of Upper St. Clair and surrounding areas. While you intended to provide technology support during the pandemic, your efforts in fact helped combat social isolation in a frail elderly population, already compromised during the pandemic (yes, you deserve applause). Even as recently as last week, some of you partnered with a senior community for a prom fashion show…and these are just a few of the ways your class has already shaped the world around you, for the better.

Today we are launching you, the 2023 version of the Upper St. Clair School District graduates. So, go out there. Follow what you have learned here at Upper St. Clair. Continue to work hard responsibly and with integrity, using the resources available to you, yes, including AI. If they are not enough, invent new ones. Find your voice. Engage fully in whatever you choose to do, collaborate with others, innovate, take action to contribute to your environment, take good care of yourselves and your loved ones, and always, always, lift others and support those who need some help.

And, most importantly, come back to us. Share with us what you have learned, your life stories, your wisdom.

We cannot wait to see the 2.0 version of the class of 2023. Congratulations!

Wagner Named Pennsylvania Principal of the Year

Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal, has been named Pennsylvania’s 2023 Principal of the Year by the Pennsylvania Principals Association. As a state winner, Dr. Wagner is now a candidate for 2023-24 National Secondary Principal of the Year, a program of the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ (NASSP).

“Our assessment of your performance as a building administrator and our careful review of the considerable contributions you have made to our profession left no doubt that we had made the right choice in terms of the person who would represent our state this year,” wrote Dr. Maureen Letcher, Pennsylvania Principals Association president.

“To receive this honor makes me think about all of the amazing things that our staff and students do every day. It is a privilege to support the pursuits of members of our school community,” Dr. Wagner said. “As principal of Upper St. Clair High School, I realize that I am part of something much larger than myself. Since I was a young child, Upper St. Clair has represented so much to me—care, community, and excellence. It is these traditions that allow us to succeed together.”

Dr. Wagner was nominated for the award by Dr. Dan Beck, USCHS assistant principal, with letters of support from students, teachers, parents, and district administrators. According to Dr. Beck, it’s Dr. Wagner’s humility and philosophical beliefs around collective decision-making that help to make the high school a special place to teach and learn.

Yoshna Venkataraman, a senior at the high school, believes that Dr. Wagner demonstrates care for every student through his consistent involvement and encouragement. She credits him and the culture of support he fosters with helping students and staff navigate the difficult times throughout the pandemic.

The influence and impact of Dr. Wagner’s leadership extends beyond students and teachers. Families recognize the difference he makes academically as well as socially and emotionally.

“Dr. Wagner has implemented several initiatives that promote students’ emotional well-being, such as mental health awareness programs, which include speakers and activities, counseling services that

are available to every student around the clock, and stress-reducing activities such as philanthropic sports competitions,” said Kelly Powell, USCHS Parent Teacher Organization president. “These initiatives help students balance the pressures of school and life.”

Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, praised Dr. Wagner for his leadership.

“Being named Pennsylvania’s Principal of the Year is an incredible and well-deserved honor for Dr. Wagner,” Dr. Rozzo said. “He has taught at every level within our school district and has a depth of knowledge that is difficult to match. As principal, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership and continues to make a positive impact within and beyond Upper St. Clair High School.”

Dr. Wagner has spent his entire professional career in the Upper St. Clair School District. In 2007, he began his teaching career at Streams Elementary. He has also taught middle-level English and social studies and has served as a gifted education coordinator for students in grades 7–12. From 2013–15, Dr. Wagner served as the middle school English language arts curriculum leader. Dr. Wagner joined the USCHS administration in 2015 as the associate principal for program planning and innovation. He was named the school’s principal in 2019.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Wagner for being named Pennsylvania Principal of the Year,” said Dr. Amy Pfender, deputy superintendent. “More importantly, we are grateful for his leadership and service to the children, families, and staff of Upper St. Clair.”

In 2017, Dr. Wagner was honored with the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award from Washington & Jefferson College. He earned similar accolades for his leadership endeavors including the University of Pittsburgh School of Education’s 2017 Early Career Award.

In 2014, he received the Outstanding Young Educator Award from the PASCD. This award recognizes educators who have made an impact on educating the whole child, leadership, and contributions to the profession. Two years later, in the fall of 2016, PASCD named him an Emerging Leader. The PASCD Emerging Leader

program recognizes and prepares young, promising educators to influence education programs, policy, and practice at the state level.

Dr. Wagner earned his undergraduate degree from Washington & Jefferson College. He completed his graduate degree and doctoral studies at the University of Pittsburgh. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Principals Association, NASSP, PASCD, and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. In addition to his work in the field of education, Dr. Wagner is actively involved in several local community organizations including the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair. He previously served on the boards of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and Beverly’s Birthdays.

Dr. Wagner was honored at the Pennsylvania Principals Association State Conference this August. He and other state winners will advance in the competition for the 2023–24 NASSP National Principal of the Year. From these state winners, three are named as national finalists and, ultimately, one is selected as the NASSP National Principal of the Year. NASSP honors all state principals of the year at the Principals Institute held each year in Washington, D.C. n

Dr. Tim Wagner

USC Named Pennsylvania’s Top School District

Upper St. Clair School District ranks as the No. 1 school district in Pennsylvania, according to the 2023 School Guide published by the Pittsburgh Business Times. This marks the second year in a row that Upper St. Clair has reached No. 1 in the statewide rankings, which began in 2017.

Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, attributes the district’s success to the collective commitment to quality public education.

“Great communities make great schools, and great schools make great communities,” he said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of parents, students, teachers, administrators, staff, a school board, and other community members who share our commitment to providing our students with world class educational experience.”

“At Upper St. Clair, we have a culture of continuous growth

USC Named Best Community for Music Education

For the eighth consecutive year, Upper St. Clair School District has been named among the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. Upper St. Clair is one of only 15 school districts in Allegheny County and 123 in Pennsylvania to earn the distinction in 2023.

To qualify for the Best Communities 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 musicmaking programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its approximately 15,000 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. For more information about the NAMM Foundation, please visit nammfoundation.org. n

that helps to ensure that our students as well as staff reach their full potential,” said Dr. Daphna Gans, school board president. “From our curriculum development process to our operations, we are constantly reviewing and evolving to best meet the needs of our students. We have a unique and incredibly student-centric superintendent and administrative team.”

For the fourth straight year, Upper St. Clair ranks No. 1 among the 105 school districts in the seven-county region that includes Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.

The 2023 School Guide rankings look at three years of school performance data. For this year’s calculations, PSSA and Keystone Exam data from 2022, 2021, and 2019 were included in the formula. Standardized testing was suspended in 2020 due to the pandemic. n

Choral Director Honored with PMEA Award

Lorraine Milovac, choral director at Upper St. Clair High School, was honored with the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 1 Citation of Excellence during the organization’s state conference this past April.

The Citation of Excellence recognizes “PMEA members who have made lasting contributions in their area of teaching.”

Lorraine retired at the end of the 2022–2023 school year and taught Theater, co-taught AP Music Theory, and directed the Women’s Choir, Clarion Choir, Men’s Ensemble, Pantheon Choir and the Chanteclairs at the high school. She served as adviser for the International Thespian Society and Tri-M Music Honors Society, and was the vocal director for the spring musical. Prior to joining the Upper St. Clair faculty in 2005, Lorraine served as the high school choral director in the Woodland Hills School District.

Lorraine has served as the director of the Women’s Choral Ensemble at the University of Pittsburgh for the last 24 years and also serves as the assistant music director at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Upper St. Clair. n

Lorraine Milovac

Chen Places First at Competition

Upper St. Clair High School student Leona Chen was the first-place winner of the inaugural Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh Concerto Competition, hosted by the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania. She will perform the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor alongside the orchestra as soloist on Sept. 9, 2023.

This past May, Leona won first place and the American Prize at the 2023 Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Association Advanced Honors Awards Competition, where she performed Liebermann’s Gargoyles, Op. 29, No. 4, Chopin’s Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48, No. 1, and Debussy’s L’isle joyeuse, L. 106. Leona placed third in the Streator-Smith Memorial Competition this past April.

Leona began taking piano lessons at age five and currently studies with Professor Luz Manriquez at the Carnegie Mellon University School of Music. She has won various awards at the Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition, the Pittsburgh Concert Society, the Pittsburgh International Piano Competition, the UIUC High School Competition and the PFMC Piano Competition.

A Young Artist in the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania since 2016, Leona has played in pre-concert recitals in the lobby of Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall and has been invited to play at New York City’s Carnegie Hall. She regularly plays at a local nursing home and volunteers to teach piano lessons to children.

Sweet Music Orchestra Fest

Three Boyce Middle School orchestra musicians were accepted to the PMEA District 1 Elementary Orchestra Fest. Violinists Darko Kosovec, Sunny Liu, and Matthew Pfeiffer performed at the event, held this past March at North Hills Middle School.

In addition to piano, Leona plays violin and was selected for the 2022 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association All-State Orchestra. n

All-State Band

Four USC High School musicians successfully auditioned for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association All-State Band. Representing Upper St. Clair at the PMEA All-State Festival this past April at the Kalahari Resort in the Poconos were Isaac Bernstein, percussion; Gabe Pacella, trumpet; Lauren Tenney, clarinet; and Ben Wasson, trombone. n

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The organization promotes and supports quality music education, learning and performance, as well as promoting and supporting music education in schools and communities. For more information about PMEA, visit www.pmea.net.

Leona Chen

Prom 2023

The sun was shining as students were dressed to impress at Upper St. Clair’s annual Red Carpet event on the high school campus.

Upper St. Clair High School’s prom was held on June 6, 2023, at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Oakland. Prior to the event, families, friends, and community members had the opportunity to see and take photos of students in their formal wear.

Prom and the Red Carpet are organized by the high school’s activities office, which is led by Brooke Tarcson and Dr. Stephen Torquato. n

Photos courtesy of Tina Vojtko, USC School District communications specialist

USCHS Seniors Volunteer at Friendship Village Prom Fashion Show

A group of nine Upper St. Clair High School seniors recently participated in a Prom Fashion Show for the residents of Friendship Village of South Hills. This marked the first year for the event collaboration between the activities offices of the high school and the retirement community.

“There is a nostalgia around school proms that resonates with all generations,” Brooke Tarcson, USCHS head of activities, said. “It was heartwarming to hear the oohs and ahhs as each girl entered the room and to see our students interacting with the residents.”

Student volunteers included Olivia Fulton, Shivani Kamineni, Mansi Lathia, Claire Loomis, Reagan McGregor, Jocie Rullo, Ashvita Saxena, Lauren Starr, and Yoshna Venkataraman.

The Friendship Village staff decorated the event space with colorful paper flowers, decorative umbrellas, and twinkle lights. The decorations worked to enhance the experience, allowing the residents to feel as if they were at a real fashion show.

When the show started, the girls walked down the runway one at a time as Liz Koenig, Friendship Village activities director, enthusiastically announced each student’s name, described the dresses, and shared their future plans following graduation.

As the girls walked the runway, the residents of Friendship Village were beaming with joy and excitement. They cheered and clapped for each girl and made sure to notice each dress.

USC student Olivia Fulton noted, “It was a really awesome experience. It was incredibly heartwarming to see how excited all of the residents were for each and every dress.”

Following the fashion show, the girls went around and spoke to each resident. This allowed for many of them to reminisce over their own senior proms.

When speaking with the residents, Ashvita Saxena found that watching them light up over the memories they cherish from prom night encouraged her to “enjoy the moment because a lot of them talked about their own prom and how they still remember it.”

The students enjoyed their time with the residents of Friendship Village.

“Our students were so thankful to have had the opportunity to participate in this volunteer effort,” said Brooke. “They genuinely enjoyed this intergenerational event.” n

You Made My Day

Friendship Village resident Jeri Williams was a guest reader in Stacey Templeton’s classroom at Baker Elementary this past March. To her surprise, she received a special packet from the students not long afterward. She was so impressed with this act of kindness that she wanted to share her response with the community, and TODAY was happy to help.

Tough guy Clint Eastwood would threaten his foes with the expression, “Make my day.” Well, my counter-take on his expression is, “You made my day,” and here’s how you so compassionately did just that.

I received on my birthday, March 30, a most unique packet. This packet contained individually created, hand-painted cards with personalized printed messages from you. Your messages reflected on my having been invited to read to you during your March 1 sleepover event. Yes, books to read had been preselected, but I decided to add a few feline stories and poems to my assignment. And, most importantly, this was because I wanted to introduce you to P.C., my robotic pretend cat, who accompanied me. We seemed to have made a purr-fect impression, as some of you referenced in your notes.

Before I began reading, I told you a few things about myself, including that I lived in a retirement community, Friendship Village South Hills (FVSH), in independent living. I also shared that my husband, John, lived on campus as well, in the memory care facility.

I had noted printed on the blackboard the names of students who had birthdays in March and saw that one of you is an almost mutual birthday sharer.

I mention all of this because you listened, remembered, and included references in your personalized messages. How perfectly beautiful of you to have done so!

Another similar unique packet was received by my husband. Some of your messages to him referred to our time together and your meeting P.C.

Each packet included a ribbon-tied collection of your cards and a special note from your teacher, the very special Mrs. Templeton.

My life has been enriched by you P.C., my robotic cat, feels this way, too So, we say with no further ado Mew, Mew, Mew.

Lovingly, Jeri Williams

Jeri Williams reading to the students at Baker

Students Talk with Astronaut

This past May, Upper St. Clair students participated in a live video call with astronaut Woody Hoburg aboard the International Space Station. Woody serves as the pilot of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-6 mission, which launched on March 2, 2023. The event was spearheaded by Tracy Smith, USCHS robotics teacher, and Russ Hoburg, Woody’s brother and USCHS chemistry teacher, with assistance and support from the district’s technology department and curriculum leaders.

A group of 15 students—representing all grade levels and all six Upper St. Clair schools—gathered in the district’s administration building to ask a variety of questions. Junior Reese Copenhaver served as the event’s host and facilitated questions from each of the students and from Russ Hoburg.

Reese collaborated with Russ Hoburg to develop and submit a design for the Crew-6 mission patch. Every launch features a unique patch specific to the mission. Crew members typically create a basic design, which is refined by a graphic artist into a usable patch. While Reese’s design was not used for the mission patch, it is featured on the pink T-shirts worn by Woody, Russ, and Reese during the broadcast.

Hosting a live broadcast with the International Space Station was an incredible experience for all involved. Tracy Smith was particularly excited that the event was available district-wide for all students, teachers, and families to enjoy.

“We were having a live conversation with someone in the International Space Station! That in and of itself is surreal,” she said. “Our community had the opportunity to experience it together. It is truly significant to be able to connect students throughout the district with a common thread. This was an ageless experience. It didn’t matter if you were a kindergartener or a veteran teacher; the excitement and impact reached everyone.”

While the broadcast went smoothly and according to plan, the behind-the-scenes logistics for the technology department were a heavy lift. In addition, curriculum leaders and teachers developed corresponding resources and learning opportunities to enrich the experience.

“It took collaboration between so many different people on our side and NASA’s to pull this off without a hiccup,” said Tracy. “Upper St Clair School District is full of professionals who take pride in making this place the best it can be for students. Because of that, we were able to work as a team to pull off this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

Tracy hopes that students look at Woody Hoburg and realize that doing things, like becoming an astronaut, is not out of reach for them.

“Woody is an authentic person who has followed his passion throughout all avenues of life—academics, sports, hobbies, etc. I want students to realize that if they work hard and continually engage in things that interest them, it can lead them to adventures in life that are beyond imaginable,” she said.

“I don’t expect all students to aspire to be an astronaut. Woody’s story goes more to the core of being true to yourself and passionately taking action to follow your dreams. That is really what I hope students take away from the event.”

“To be involved in something that can have a positive impact on so many people is very rewarding,” Tracy said. “Sometimes it takes a large-scale event like this to realize that your passion and hard work can positively affect the lives of others. It has reminded me of my purpose and rejuvenated me to continue to find ways to inspire and educate.” n

Student astronaut Leonardo Cesarm, Streams Elementary

Astronaut Woody Hoburg

Tech Staff: Erin Walker, Todd West, Michael Binkley, Paul Jaglowski, Ray Berrott

STEAM

The STEAM Innovation & Consulting course gives students an opportunity to apply newly learned problem-solving methods and their own unique strengths to solve real world challenges. These are problems that are varied in scope and often require students to explore new subject areas that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn about.

“Generally speaking, any time that students get a sense of the type of problems faced in companies of any size, it informs them about potential career choices,” Fred said. “The problems that we get from our industry partners are intentionally diverse, where any problem—from front office through shipping a finished product—is on the table.”

Four teams of STEAM students traveled to Eaton Corp in Moon Township to present their work to a team of corporate executives. Students were tasked with researching and developing solutions for a variety of challenges, from environmentally friendly packaging improvements to creating a demonstration wall that features interactive media.

The students are enrolled in the Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting course taught by USCHS teacher Fred Peskorski. Within the class, students work to solve real world problems using Human Centered Design techniques as well as more traditional problem-solving methods.

The final phase of this course requires students to work with industry partners to solve real problems that need to be addressed within those companies. Students have been working with Eaton Corp, an international Fortune 500 Company that focuses on reliable, efficient, safe, and sustainable power management technologies. This marks the third year that Eaton has partnered with USC’s STEAM course.

While all of the program’s partnering corporations provide challenging problems for the students, Eaton Corp is unique in several ways.

“Eaton has dedicated engineers and/or executives assigned to each student team who’ve been proactive in guiding students as they work through the problem-solving process,” Fred explained. “They have always provided honest feedback with critique that is thoughtful and meaningful to our students. And, Eaton is a global multi-billion-dollar company that has a manufacturing process distinctly different from our other partners.”

National Chemistry Olympiad

While each team focuses on its specific problem, throughout the duration of the partnership, the class participates in status meetings where each team shares the work that they have been doing.

“This exposure can enlighten students about a field of interest that they had no idea existed, or equally valuable, the exposure could reveal that they don’t enjoy or have a proclivity for something that they thought they would want to pursue,” said Fred.

While you cannot exactly duplicate real world experiences in the classroom, Fred believes the experiences in the Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting course are about as close to it as you can get.

“Students work in teams as consultants for our partners,” he said. “The problems given to them are real and our partners have expectations that these kids will develop solutions that are either immediately implementable, or provide a framework that they can use in house to build their own solutions.”

Prior to their work with Eaton Corp, the students worked with EAFab, a Pittsburgh-based company that designs and fabricates equipment and parts for steel mills throughout North America. Following this collaboration, students will spend time working as consultants for Tom Brown, Inc.

The STEAM Innovation & Consulting course was launched in 2014 as a partnership between the Upper St. Clair and South Fayette high schools, the Luma Institute, All-Clad Metalcrafters LLC, and EAFab Corp. n

Any corporations or organizations that may be interested in partnering with the Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting course, should contact Fred Peskorski at fpeskorski@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Isabella Zhang and Mahir Parmar, USCHS students, were two of the approximately 1000 high school students who qualified for the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) that was administered this past April. The National Chemistry Olympiad exam is a three-part exam administered on a single day. Each of the three parts takes approximately two hours to complete.

Sponsored by the American Chemical Society, the USNCO program is a competition designed to stimulate and promote achievement in high school chemistry. n

Isabella Zhang Mahir Parmar

STEAM STEM

Cardboard Boats—That Float

This past spring, USCHS Advanced Placement Physics C students designed, constructed, and tested their life-sized cardboard boat designs in the high school’s swimming pool. Before a crowd of hundreds of classmates, students climbed aboard their vessels in a race for first place and bragging rights.

“Students create four individual boat designs each and calculate the depth their boat will sink with their target loads, volume of boats, area of the bottom of their boats, maximum load their boat can hold, amount of water they’ll displace etc.,” said their teacher, Clayton Yonker. “Their designs are to be professional with multiple views and dimensions, including an orthogonal view.”

The annual boat races represent the culmination of the students’ efforts.

“The students build a prototype of one of their designs and test it,” said Clayton. “After testing it, their group finalizes a design and they construct a

USCHS Students Teach Coding

A group of USCHS students hosted a Creative Computing Club for nearly 50 fourth graders this past spring. The high school students are members of the Spark Girls Into STEM (SGIS) Club.

SGIS offered the Creative Computing Club from 2:45–4:15 p.m. on three consecutive Fridays in April at both Baker and Streams elementary schools. Students connected with high school students through computer science and learn more about programming through Scratch.

High school volunteers included Jasmine Dietiker, Eesha Pande, Mariah Rainier, Lauren Starr, Amanda Aidar, Maeryn Mannix, Nishma Ghimire, Mia Manalo, and Nikhita Thakuria. Jasmine, SGIS president, hopes the program will inspire students to explore computer science more on their own.

“I had the opportunity of being introduced to Scratch at an early age, and subsequently spent years on my own teaching myself to code,” Jasmine said. “I got involved with SGIS my freshman year because I knew how important it is to give kids that first step and introduce them to fun new ways to learn.”

Jasmine explained that the three-day program centered around the idea of storytelling.

full-sized boat out of cardboard, glue, tape and plastic for waterproofing.”

In the initial round, boats raced to complete eight laps in the pool. Although all boats successfully completed the eight laps without sinking, only the fastest advanced to the finals. The winner of the final round was the Mario Bros. boat. n

“Each day, we focused on one concept that the students had to incorporate into their projects,” she said. “Day one was dialogue, and the students learned how to make characters talk to each other and code movement. Day two involved characterization, where the students worked on changing the characters’ appearances and using code to ‘broadcast’ messages between characters. On the last day, students wrapped up their projects with a lesson on interactive storytelling, where they learned to code for user interaction.”

The elementary students responded enthusiastically to the coding program, as well as to the high school volunteers.

“The students immediately began working on their own and jumped right into the process of designing characters, scripts of code, and the overall story of their project,” Jasmine said. “It was really inspiring to see how motivated they were to ask questions as soon as they ran into issues and work with a volunteer to debug their code. We even had students who finished their projects early go on to create additional interactive games or animations!”

Jasmine believes the students enjoyed having the opportunity to create their own one-of-a-kind project while also being able to collaborate with their peers. n

PA Media and Design Competition

Two Fort Couch students placed first in their respective categories in the recent regional PA Media and Design Competition. Felix Chen won the 3-D Design category and Priyaharshini Sivakumar finished first in Animation, qualifying for the state competition, held this past May in Carlisle, Pa.

The students are led by Jason O’Roark, gifted and accelerated math teacher. He explained that for the 3-D Design category, Felix focused on using automation to improve worker safety.

“Felix researched dangerous jobs for one that he thought he could automate and decided to save lives by no longer forcing roofers to climb up on roofs,” Jason said. “He made a plan for his automated roofer, worked hard to create all of the elements of his design in CAD, printed his design on a 3-D printer, and wrote about his plan and process.”

Using animation, Priyaharshini developed a creative story about Pip the penguin who lives in the 1920s and wants to see the future because they think it will be wonderful.

Junior Envirothon

Teams from Upper St. Clair’s Fort Couch and Boyce middle schools earned several top honors at the Junior Envirothon this past March.

Jason explained, “Priyaharshini wrote a script, created her illustrations, used Scratch programming to bring them to life, and wrote about the process she used to create her project.”

The PA Media and Design Competition is an annual event that highlights Pennsylvania students’ application skills, creativity, and knowledge. Students unleash their creativity, learn how to convey information more dynamically, and enhance the learning process. Middle and high school students have the opportunity to compete within six categories, including 3-D design, animation, digital movie, logo and graphic design, programming, and web page design. n

Pennsylvania Math League

The Fort Couch team of Josh Beitler, Matt Beitler, Callum Pollock, Anthony Dipiazza, and Malo Dubreil placed first. Second place was won by the Fort Couch team of Trevor McClintock-Comeaux, Ryan Katukota, Suhavi Singh, Aanya Agrawal, and Ahana Mendhi.

Josh Beitler was singled out as the top scorer in the entire competition at the soils and land use station. The Fort Couch Middle School students were coached by Tom Yochum, gifted coordinator.

In the elementary division, the team of Sara Alhajhusain, Kenzie Petrick, Sarah Staub, and Rebecca Zahalsky placed second. Finishing third was the team of Eamon Castrodale, Michael Clarke, Mateo Lin, Brayden Wong, and Alex Zhang. The Boyce students were coached by Sherri Garvey, gifted/enrichment resource teacher.

The Junior Envirothon is a “natural resource environmental education program that combines classroom learning and outdoor activities.” The program is modeled after the high school Envirothon, which is an annual competition across the commonwealth. Students compete in small teams across five domains, or stations: aquatic ecology, forestry, soils and land use, wildlife, and current issues. This year’s current issues included invasive species and the exotic pet trade. n

Boyce sixth graders and Fort Couch seventh graders placed second in Pennsylvania and first in the five-county region in the Pennsylvania Mathematics League (PML) contest, held this past spring.

Five of the top seven students in the five-county region are Boyce students Claire Dietiker, Bernard Huang, Will Kreizenbeck, Mateo Lin, and Brayden Wong.

Fort Couch seventh graders tied for the second highest score among 38 schools throughout Pennsylvania. Fort Couch topped the charts at the regional level and two of the top four scores were earned by seventh graders John Whitman and Nate Del.

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—comprised of the school’s top five scores—is reported to the PML.

The PML specializes in conducting math contests designed to stimulate student interest and confidence in mathematics. n

Science Bowl

Fort Couch students Josh Beitler, Matt Beitler, Anthony Dipiazza, Malo Dubreil, Colt Erdos, and Callum Pollock placed second at the regional Science Bowl, held this past March.

The event was hosted by the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Students worked in teams to compete in various hands-on challenges. n

Priyaharshini Sivakumar Felix Chen

Fort Couch students (l/r) Malo Dubreil, Matt Beitler, Callum Pollock, Josh Beitler, and Anthony DiPiazza took first place at Junior Envirothon.

Upper St. Clair School District

2023–2024 ATHLETIC PASSES

ADULT AND STUDENT PASSES

Ultimate Panther Pass includes general admission entry to ALL home, regular season USCHS athletic events, including football, soccer, basketball, swimming, wrestling, lacrosse, and volleyball.

Three season (fall, winter, spring)

Quantity ___ @ $50

Name: Phone:

Address: City:

State: ________Zip:__________Email:

Number of Passes Ordered: Order Total: $

Mail completed order forms with payment (payable to USCHS Athletics) to: Upper St. Clair High School

Attn: Athletics – Kim Valeriano

1825 McLaughlin Run Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Orders must be received before Aug.15. Panther Passes will be mailed. If you have any questions, please email Kim Valeriano at kvaleriano@uscsd.k12.pa.us

THE ACTUAL PANTHER PASS MUST BE PRESENTED AT THE GATE NO PICTURES OF THE PASS ON YOUR PHONE WILL BE ACCEPTED

A replacement fee of $20 will be charged for lost or stolen passes.

2023 USCHS Varsity Football Schedule

USCHS Clubs and Activities

2023–2024

Academic Assist Club

Almighty Voices Club

American Red Cross Club

Archery Club

Art Club*

ASL Club

Athlete Outreach

Badminton Club

Beauty Club

Best Buddies*

Biology Club

Black Student Union

Boba Club

Book Club

Books Around the World Club

BookWorm Club

Boxing Club

Boys Ultimate Frisbee

Business and Finance Club

(BLC)

C2CF

Card Club

Cereal Club

Chess Club

Chinese Club

Cinematic Arts Club

Coding for Confidence

Community Helpers

Computer Club

Crochet and Knitting Club

Environmental Club

Equestrian Club

EveryChild

FBLA*

FCCLA

Fencing Club

Financial Management Association

French Club*

Future Teachers of America*

Gay-Straight Alliance

German Club*

Girls Reaching Out

Worldwide (G.R.O.W.)

Girls Who Code

Health Occupation

Students of America

IB Club

In the Silence

Indoor Drumline

Innovation, Technology,

and Entrepreneurship Club

Interact Club*

Interfaith Club

Japanese Club*

Jewish Social Club

JOY

Junto Club

Kids Helping Kids

Latin Club*

Law and Politics Club

Letter Writers Letters of Love

Local Historical Leaders

Magic: The Gathering Club

Make-a-Wish Math Club

Melody for the Elderly Montage*

Mountain Bike Club

Multicultural Club*

Outdoors Club

Pantherettes Club

Pep Band

Phoenix Wing Club

Photography Club

Pickleball Club

Play Like a Girl

Real Estate Club

RePLAY

Robotics Club*

RPG Club

Saving Animals

Ski Club

Spanish Club*

Spark Girls into STEM

Speech and Debate*

Spikeball Club

St. Clairion*

Stage Crew

Stand Together Club*

Students Demand Action

Table Tennis Club

Technology Student Association (TSA)

Theatre Club

Topgolf Club

Tri-M*

Ukrainian Culture

UNICEF

USC Esports*

uscGAL*

Wallflowers Club

Winterguard

World Affairs Club*

Yearbook*

YEP Club

Yoga Club

Young Life

*Indicates school-sponsored clubs; all other clubs are student-driven.

Visit uscsd.k12.pa.us/activities for the most

All games start at 7 p.m. on a Friday unless otherwise listed.

listing of clubs and activities, as well as contact information.

High School Student Attends FBI Youth Leadership Program

Braidyn Recker was selected for the FBI National Academy Associates Youth Leadership Program and participated in a week-long training event this past June at the FBI Academy, located on the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Va.

Braidyn is an active member of the USCHS student council. She competes on the high school girls’ soccer team and with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy. She is also involved with the National Alliance for Mental Illness and the Red Door Project.

The Youth Leadership Program includes extensive classroom study, physical fitness, guest lectures, and leadership experiences. The program focuses on issues facing today’s youth, including fundamentals of leadership, fitness, nutrition and resiliency, time management, values and choices, social media and internet survival, managing change, financial literacy, and more.

Students must demonstrate high academic standards and good citizenship to be nominated for the Youth Leadership Program. The 62 students selected for the program represent more than 40 U.S. states and four international countries.

The Youth Leadership Program is hosted by the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc., an international alumni organization of senior law enforcement professionals who have graduated from the 10-week FBI National Program. Applicants must be rising high school sophomores or juniors between 14–16 years old. Interested students apply for the program through their local FBI National Academy Associates Chapter and participate in a competitive interview process at the Pittsburgh FBI field office.

Upper St. Clair is represented by the program’s Western Pennsylvania Chapter. For more information about the FBI National Academy Associates Youth Leadership Program, contact John Phoennik, South Fayette Township’s chief of police, at jphoennik@sftwp.com. n

Upper St. Clair School District

2023–2024 Calendar

Aug 23 Grades 1–12 First Day of School

Aug 25 Kindergarten First Day of School

Sep 4 No School–Labor Day

Oct 27 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 1 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 7 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 22–24 No School–Thanksgiving Recess

Dec 22 Half Day/Early Dismissal

Dec 25–29 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 1 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 15 No School–Teacher In-service

Jan 22 No School–Teacher In-service

Feb 19 No School–Teacher In-service

Mar 25–29 No School–Spring Recess

Apr 1 No School–Teacher In-service

Apr 23 No School–Teacher In-service

May 27 No School–Memorial Day

Jun 6 High School Commencement

Jun 6 Last Day of School for Students–Half Day/Early Dismissal

Jun 7 Teacher In-service

Monthly Calendar

The USC School District detailed monthly calendar is available online, providing residents with the most up-to-date information about events in our township’s schools. To access the calendar, visit the district website at 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 (uscsd.k12.pa.us) under Quick Links, shown on the left-hand side.

(l/r) Castle Shannon Police Lt. Brian McKeown, South Fayette Chief of Police John Phoennik, FBI Pittsburgh Training and Civic Liaison Specialist Kathrine Halo, Braidyn Recker, Upper St. Clair Lt. Michael Lindenfelser, Upper St. Clair Chief of Police Jonathan Wharton

Showing Community Support for our Lady Panthers

Studies have found that female athletes in high school are still denied the same recognition as their male counterparts. Three Upper St. Clair students—Reilly Caslin, Gabbie Deep, and Mac Kenzie Rauch—began to brainstorm ideas on how to make a difference at the high school and were excited to have the opportunity to create positive change by showing support for the USC girls’ athletic teams.

Gabbie stated, “Inequality in recognition for women’s athletics has been a topic of discussion throughout the United States for many years. Our group found this issue specifically interesting, as it concerned not only the world around us, but connected with our own experiences in Upper St. Clair. We began to wonder if this disproportion affected our own community and what could be done to combat this imbalance of recognition if it was present.”

The Honors American Civil Engagement class, taken by upperclassmen at the high school, offers a unique understanding of how students can engage with local and federal government systems. The class culminates in a year-long CAPstone project, where students select a topic that they are passionate about as well as encouraging thought about difference-making in the world around them.

Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie explored athletic statistics at USCHS and investigated what change could be made within their sphere of influence for the CAPstone project. After reviewing research that indicated that the majority of high school and college female athletic programs do not receive equal recognition as their male counterparts, they were able to develop their research question: Is Upper St. Clair

High School’s athletic program providing equal recognition for boys’ and girls’ athletics? They investigated whether this discrepancy exists in the high school and proposed a constructive solution to benefit not only the students, but also the community as a whole.

Reilly, a varsity tennis player, said, “Before we began to dive into the investigation within our own school district, we started to gather information about the effect of this division on other communities in the United States, both in high schools and at the collegiate level. While conducting research for our project, we found many articles and statistics regarding unequal athletic acknowledgement through unequal funding.” According to articles written about three New York schools—Patriot High School, Hudson High School, and New York City Schools—girls’ athletics are being provided with significantly less funding compared to boys’ athletics. The writer of DNA info, Katie Honan, reported on statistics concerning the funding of sports for schools across New York through The Public School Athletic League. She reported, “nearly $14.5 million was spent on boys’ athletics, and $12 million was spent for girls. Co-ed sports, including cricket and golf, received less than $1 million in funding.”

The statistics for the state of New York indicate that there is an unequal distribution of fund for girls’ and boys’ athletics. Boys’ sports get more funding for their teams, while girls get less. This seems to be a trend among many other schools, as shown through Hudson High School, where it was reported that “between July 1, 2013, and March 30, 2014, girls’ sports received $17,933.67, whereas boys’ teams were granted $46,815.93.” Funding is a critical element of recognition, and the statistics demonstrate that the funding for girls’ and boys’ sports at Hudson High School is imbalanced.

While inconsistent funding seems to be a contributing factor, it is not the only factor in unequal recognition between

boys’ and girls’ sports. The team acknowledged that the CAPstone project tasked them with effecting change withing their sphere of influence. Reilly, Gabbie and Mac Kenzie realized that school district athletic funding was not within their immediate sphere of influence and asked themselves, instead, what other ways they could impact the recognition of USCHS athletics? The group considered the questions: What is recognition? And furthermore, how can it be measured?

The answer, they concluded, was found in attendance. As a whole, men’s college basketball games are watched more than women’s college basketball games. Statistics reported by the NCAA demonstrate the imbalance in attendance between male and female sporting events, as seen through March Madness viewership. According to World Sports Network, “The 2019 Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament had an average viewership of 6.79 million. In comparison, the 2019 Women’s Division I Basketball Tournament Final had an average viewership of 3.69 million across linear and streaming platforms.” There’s a reason that at every Steelers game the attendance is announced during the fourth quarter. Attendance, regardless of the event, proves to be substantial, as showing up demonstrates attention, support, and dedication to the event and community.

Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie directed their efforts toward increasing community and student awareness of the USCHS girls’ athletic teams through advertising aimed at increasing attendance rates at home sporting events. They hoped that through making USCHS girls’ athletics a louder part of the conversation, community awareness would increase and attendance would go up.

What started out as just an idea evolved into a project, as Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie outlined the specific action that could be taken within the community. The girls met with high school athletic staff, Greg Wagner and Kimberly Valeriano, to gain further insight and gather attendance

statistics regarding female athletic programs offered at the high school. The students hoped to understand the attendance contrast between girls’ and boys’ athletic teams in past seasons. The numbers demonstrated a stark divide between the spectator turnout, favoring the high school boys’ athletic teams. A notable example of this discrepancy can be seen through the attendance rates at the boys’ and girls’ senior recognition lacrosse games in 2022. The boys’ lacrosse team had 216 spectators in attendance, whereas the girls’ team had 141. Mac Kenzie, a member of the girls’ lacrosse team, proposed focusing on increasing student attendance at a specific measurable game.

In the spring of 2022, girls’ lacrosse senior night had fewer than 150 people in attendance. The group set a goal to demonstrate improvement in attendance for this game in 2023. Through advertising by creating posters to put up around the high school and collaborating with the student section leaders that encourage student spirit, Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie aimed to increase student attendance at USC girls’ lacrosse senior recognition night. They also ran a 50/50 raffle during the first half of the game, with proceeds going to the lacrosse team.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature threw a curveball that no amount of advertising or social media influence could prevent—spitting rain and 30-degree temperatures in mid-April. Junior Evelyn Hertzog said, “I saw the Twitter post and was planning to go to the game with some friends, but I didn’t really want to sit in the rain.”

In the end, the crowd turnout was smaller than hoped, as the numbers did not surpass 2022. But it was not a complete loss, as the team won (20-6) and the 50/50 profits were donated directly to the USCHS girls’ lacrosse team. While the attendance of this single event did not increase, the students’ plan to continue to provide a voice to girls’ athletic teams in future games and even future seasons.

The group is working to publicize the game schedules for all the USC female athletic teams. They hope this article will spark interest in the female athletic events at the high school and that attendance will continue to increase for years to come. From lacrosse to tennis, and everything in between, USC girls’ athletic teams contribute to the community and culture at the high school. Attendance at female athletic events is crucial in showing support for our female student athletes.

Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie hope this project will motivate girls to stick with playing sports and demonstrate both the impact and importance of equal athletic recognition in the world around them and in Upper St. Clair. Although every step of recognition helps, the CAPstone group realizes that imbalance in athletic equality is present on a much larger, world-wide scale. Reilly, Gabbie, and Mac Kenzie plan on continuing to pursue athletic recognition through the rest of their high school careers and hope to see you at one of the girls’ home sporting events soon! n

Varsity Scorecard 2022–2023

Interested in learning more about the upcoming girls’ seasons? Like or follow your favorite teams to keep up to date with the latest news in USC girls’ athletics. Specific schedules will be published on the school district athletic website uscsdathletics.com.

Let’s Hear It for the Girls!

Caleb Guarino, TODAY Intern

Upper St. Clair’s female student-athletes had a great spring season!

Playoff Bound

In May 2019, the USC softball team clinched a playoff spot for the first time in more than two decades. This year, the team, led by pitcher Brooklyn Kemp, clinched a spot midway through the season. In a single season, Brooklyn reached and surpassed 100 career strikeouts, with a total of 112. “I was very proud of myself,” Brooklyn said. “My coach made me successful and helped me get the job done by calling my pitches. I also couldn’t have done it without my teammates.”

Since becoming head coach, Coach Bill Aguglia has led the team to the playoffs three times in the past four years. Coach Aguglia commented, “Making the playoffs is special to me here. My proudest moment was making playoffs for the first time in 20 years.”

Smashing Records

The USC girls’ track and field team had an extremely successful season. In addition to making playoffs and having multiple athletes qualify for the state championships, the girls’ team broke school and meet records regularly. Perhaps the most impressive achievement occurred on April 15, at the TSTCA Invitational when the girls’ 4 x 100-meter team—Ashley Sanderson, Sadie Tomczyk, Dani Prunzik, and Noor El Nokali—broke the all-time USCHS record of 49.67 seconds with a blazing time of 48.67 seconds, just over five weeks into the season.

Captain Dani Prunzik commented, “We were slowly getting there. I felt like it was bound to happen.”

The girls credit the amazing accomplishment to Coach Matt Cosgrove, their sprinting coach, and to each other for their hard work and determination. Records were broken by Dani Prunzik in the 100- and 200-meter events, and by Sadie Tomczyk, who has the USC high school freshman records in the 100, 200, and 400meter races. Dani Prunzik won both the 100-meter and 200-meter events at WPIALs. She went on to place fifth at states in 100 and eighth in the 200. Sadie also qualified for states, placing seventh in both the 100 and 200 at WPIALs. The girls’ 4 x 100-meter team earned second place at WPIALs and went on to compete at the state competition at Shippensburg University.

Giving Back

The Upper St. Clair IB Programme requires students to give back to the community through a final project before receiving the IB Certificate. Emily Powell and Noor El Nokali hosted a track and field clinic for their project. Little did they know that they would receive over 100 participants, making this one of the largest clinics ever hosted!

To get started, Noor and Emily received two grants for their project, allowing them to use the high school track and gain access to necessary equipment. Their clinic consisted of various stations, including running form, jumping form, running workouts, and plyometrics. They admit the clinic wouldn’t have been successful without help from their advisor, Doug Petrick, and various parent volunteers.

“Seeing it all come together at the end was a special moment,” commented Noor and Emily. “I hope we have an opportunity to do this again in the future!” n

Pitcher Brooklyn Kemp celebrating her 100th career strikeout with the USC softball team. (l/r) Elisa Tucker, Emily Teklinski, Maggie Dowds, Sydney Fisher, Brooklyn Kemp, Grace Cassler, Marissa Noschese, Violet Swigart, Vanessa Benonis, Ava Worner, Geneva Eisinger, Cassidy Guarino

The Upper St. Clair girls’ 4 x 100-meter team competing at Penn Relays on April 27, 2023. (l/r) Noor El Nokali, Ashley Sanderson, Sadie Tomcyzk, Dani Prunzik

The Upper St. Clair track camp IB Project founders and volunteers after the successful first day of the clinic. (l/r) Coach Greg Wagner, Emily Powell, Noor El Nokali, Coach Doug Petrick

World Language Department Recognized for Excellence

The Upper St. Clair High School World Language Department recently earned a 2023 Golden Globe Award from the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association (PSMLA).

“The Golden Globe sets a language program as exemplary within the state,” said Marc-André Clermont, French teacher and World Language Department curriculum leader. “Our teachers have been working very hard to adapt to a constantly changing landscape in education, and they now have the privilege of being recognized for those efforts.”

To qualify for a Golden Globe, a school must meet or exceed eight out of 11 program indicators that include a high percentage of world language enrollment, a variety of languages offered in four-year sequences, retention of students at higher levels, participation in AP and/or IB programs, and other key instructional practices.

Marc-André believes Upper St. Clair’s community support works to strengthen the district’s educational programs, including within the World Language Department.

The high school offers five levels of French, German, and Spanish, and four levels of Latin, Chinese, and Japanese. There are 13 faculty members within the high school’s World Language Department. Approximately 85% of USCHS students are enrolled in world language classes, and an increasing number of students are taking classes in two or more languages.

Upper St. Clair’s world language program focuses on oral proficiency, which anticipates that all students will have sufficient oral practice in their classes to be able to communicate in another country.

“We are proud to give students the opportunity to graduate from our high school with a working proficiency of the language they choose to study and have worked hard to continue to maintain a high standard for our students,” Marc-André said. “Many of our students are well prepared to meet the growing demand for bilingual speakers in their chosen professions, and will find their hard work in high school to be of benefit to them throughout their lives.”

USCHS Speech & Debate Crowned State Champs

The Upper St. Clair High School Speech & Debate team has once again been crowned Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) State Champions. This marks the Panthers’ fourth state title since 2017.

Competing in the large school division, USC earned 600.5 points. North Allegheny Senior High School finished second with 519.5 points and Pennsbury High School was third with 348 points. Upper St. Clair took top honors in Speech Sweepstakes and second in Debate Sweepstakes. Individually, senior Nitin Chandran finished first in Extemporaneous.

The Upper St. Clair High School Speech & Debate Team is coached by high school teachers Ben Edwards and Dave Watson. Founded in 1961, the Pennsylvania High School Speech League’s purpose is to stimulate through educational competition an understanding and appreciation of all areas of speech. n

USCHS Speech & Debate team—state champions

Student Council

Named National Gold Council of Excellence

The USC High School Student Council was recently honored as a 2023 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Student Council (NatStuCo). The NatStuCo program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

This marks the third year that USCHS Student Council has been named a National Gold Council of Excellence. The national recognition automatically qualifies USCHS for the Pennsylvania Association for Student Councils’ Distinguished Keystone Council Award.

Upper St. Clair’s application process was spearheaded by Ben Seewald, sophomore class president, and Ryan LaRocco, sophomore class vice president, with help from other sophomore class senators.

“National Student Council recognizes student councils that go above and beyond to improve the quality of school and the student experience,” Ben said. “To be recognized as a Gold Council, the student council must meet an additional 26 criteria. A Gold

Food and Clothing Drive

Algebra Part A students at Fort Couch and USCHS teamed up to help those less fortunate by hosting a food, clothing, and toy drive to benefit the Food Helpers of Washington County. Non-perishable food items and new or gently used clothing and toys were collected. Monetary donations were accepted for the food bank, as well.

This marks the ninth year that the Algebra 1 Part A classes have collaborated on a food drive project. Coordinating the outreach effort are Shannon Strayer, USCHS math teacher, and Michelle Senneway, Fort Couch math teacher.

“We link the food and clothing drive to our algebra classes by creating an algebra equation and graph the results daily,” said Shannon. “We value all food and clothing donations at $1.25 each and with the combination of all money and food/clothing collected want to have a ‘total value’ of at least $5000. We discuss how many more items and/or money need to be donated in order to hit the goal.”

Students were assigned a variety of tasks, including advertising the drive, collecting the food, counting, sorting items, and calculating the total value.

In addition to their collection efforts, students spent a day volunteering at the Food Helpers of Washington County, where they planted gardens, packed Senior Boxes in the food bank, and sorted clothing at the organization’s thrift store.

Council is special as only the best student councils are recognized; only nine student councils in Pennsylvania were awarded Gold.” NatStuCo provides and promotes professional development and leadership training to student council advisers who, in turn, teach leadership skills to student council members. NatStuCo is dedicated to preparing and empowering student leaders to better serve their schools and communities. For more information, visit NatStuCo.org. n

Last year, students collected over 7000 food and clothing items and more than $500 in monetary donations to benefit the Food Helpers. n

USCHS Student Council members

Pawprints...

PTC... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

TODAY is pleased to introduce you to the presidents of the Upper St. Clair Parent Teacher Council and the PTSOs, PTOs, and PTA at our community’s schools. These dedicated individuals do so much to enrich the lives of our students, so please respond generously when and if they call for volunteers during the 2023–2024 school year!

Council

Pamela Scureman, President

Spouse: Ryan Scureman

Children: Claire, Jack, Danielle, and Keely

Occupation: Accountant at Ohio’s Hospice

Hobbies: Supporting my children, reading!

Favorite Restaurant: Leo Greta—Chef Alauzen’s homemade gnocchi and Caesar salad

High School PTSO

Leria Miles, President

Spouse: Ron Miles

Children: Chance and Mileidi

Occupation: Project Management

Hobbies: Volunteering

Favorite Restaurant: Anthos

Fort Couch PTSO

Elizabeth Taylor, President

Spouse: Elliott Taylor

Children: Owen and Holden

Occupation: Our family owns Clubhouse Cards on North Highland

Hobbies: I have two hockey players, so it doesn’t allow much time for myself, but when I have time, I love going to the movies, taking trips to the beach, and spending time with friends and family.

Favorite Restaurant: Girasole in Shadyside

Boyce PTO

Ashlee Lentini, President

Spouse: Michael Lentini

Children: Harper, Dillon, and Carmen

Occupation: Stay-at-home mom and occasional fitness instructor, with a little design work on the side

Hobbies: A variety of workouts, fashion, and style

Favorite Restaurant: Il Pizziolo

Baker PTA

Kelly Meyers, President

Spouse: Dan Meyers

Children: Reagan and Owen

Occupation: Stay-at-home mom

Hobbies: Not much other than running my kids around to all their activities! I do love a good puzzle and I also love all things home design, including constantly renovating our home.

Favorite Restaurant: Little Tokyo in Mt. Lebanon

Eisenhower PTO

Jennifer Zofchak, President

Spouse: Greg Zofchak

Children: Brooks, Ryan, and Brandon

Occupation: Travel advisor for Litterini Travel and substitute teacher for USCSD

Hobbies: Traveling with my family and friends, watching my boys play all of their sports, baking, and playing tennis

Favorite Restaurant: Arlecchinos

Streams PTO

Britanny McHale, President

Spouse: William Weller

Children: Morgan and Mason

Occupation: Stay-at-home mom—I enjoy every second and am always planning something fun to do with them. Being able to attend all of their events is the best thing in the world!

Hobbies: Travel, hike, beach, swim, planting flowers, and anything outside. I love to plan things!

Favorite Restaurant: First Watch in Sienna— the food is great and the servers are so nice.

The USC Parent Teacher Council provides leadership and coordination for all the PTA/ PTOs/PTSOs in the district. What does Council do for you?

• Publishes the districtwide student directory

• Coordinates district-wide STEAM and wellness programs

• Coordinates a districtwide arts program—Arts in USC—for students in grades K–12

• Funds and manages the Scripps Spelling Bee in USC

• Provides timely emails regarding PTA/PTO/PTSO events and happenings at the schools

• Provides support to families of gifted students through Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)

• Provides support to families of special education students through Partners in Education (PIE)

• Hosts a semi-annual

Open Mike with Dr. Rozzo, superintendent of schools, and his administrative team

• Host an annual welcome

dinner for new families entering grades 1–12

• Maintains a Facebook page of district and community information

• Provides an annual appreciation breakfast for the central office administrators and staff

• Provides leadership training for PTA/PTO/ PTSO officers

• Maintains consistency among the USC volunteering units in many areas

Kelly Meyers

Britanny McHale

Jennifer Zofchak

Pamela Scureman

Elizabeth Taylor

Leria Miles

Ashlee Lentini

Fort Couch Student Reaches Quarterfinals

Raana Parchuri, a student at Fort Couch, finished as a quarterfinalist at the 95th Scripps National Spelling. Raana placed 74th among the 231 participants who qualified for nationals.

FBLA

Four USCHS students were among the top performers at the Pennsylvania Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference, advancing to the national competition, held this past June: Ujal Gautum first place, Impromptu Speaking; Arya Patel, second place, Advertising; Yog Trivedi, third place, Advertising; and Shubham Patel, fourth place, Agribusiness.

National Academic Competitions

Three USC middle school students were among the top competitors at the U.S. History Bee, National History Bee, and National History Bowl, held this past June. In individual competition, Arjun Kairi was a semifinalist in the U.S. History Bee, and Arjun and Raana Parchuri were quarterfinalists in the National History Bee. In the team competition, Arjun and classmate Bernard Huang advanced to the quarterfinals in the 2023 National History Bowl. The events are part of the 2023 Middle School and Elementary National Championships, sponsored by the International Academic Competition.

Girls on the Run

Twenty-nine Streams students completed the Girls on the Run Magee Spring 5K, held on May 21, 2023, at the Waterfront in Homestead. Girls on the Run is a national program that encourages preteen girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through running. The 10-week program combines training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting lessons, and workouts.

#Have You Heard? Have

Outstanding Young Citizens

Seven USCHS student were recognized among the 100 Trib Total Media 2023 Outstanding Young Citizens. Jasmine Dietiker, Lily Gessel, Ansh Goyal, Markella Jahn, Peer Khan, Jason Lu, and Phillip Markovitz were selected based on their character and leadership, dedication to community service, and outstanding academic achievement.

The Outstanding Young Citizens program recognizes high school juniors and seniors from throughout western Pennsylvania. Nominations can be made by family, friends, school officials, teachers, and members of the community.

Ultimate Frisbee Champions

The USCHS boys’ ultimate frisbee team won the city championship, held this past May at Duquesne University. This marks the first championship for the team in its nearly two-decade history. The final game was a close match against North Allegheny, ending with a 12-11 overtime victory for the Panthers. The team ended the season 10-1. Earlier this year, the team went undefeated in the city’s winter league, capturing the championship against Fox Chapel to finish with a 20-0 record.

High School Diplomat

Isaac Bernstein was among 16 American and 16 Japanese students who attended a 10-day cultural enrichment experience in Japan this summer as part of the 2023 High School Diplomats (HSD) Japan program. Students visited such places as Hiroshima, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Tokyo, enjoyed site-seeing, and made official visits.

The HSD program brings together high school students from the United States and Japan each summer through two parallel experiences. With HSD U.S., American students travel to the East Coast of the United States to participate in eight days of cultural exchange alongside a Japanese roommate on the campus of the University of Virginia. With HSD Japan, American students who complete the U.S. program travel to Japan for several weeks the following summer.

Raana Parchuri

Isaac Bernstein

Future Problem Solvers

Two teams of USCHS students were top performers at the Future Problem Solving (FPS) State Bowl, qualifying for the FPS International Conference, held in June at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Sofia Alfredson Themudo, Anoushka Barve, Sara Gillespie, and Kaia Petrick earned first place in Global Issues Problem Solving and first place in the Action Plan Presentation.

Jamie Barrett, Frankie Dubreil, Anna Engelman, and Sydney Montgomery earned second place in Global Issues Problem Solving and first place in the Action Plan Presentation.

PAWsitive Attitude Makes a Difference

Streams Elementary raised $2000 to benefit Canine Partners for Life during the school’s annual Children for Children initiative. The theme for this year’s effort, which spanned from February through May, was A PAWsitive Attitude Can Make All the Difference.

Canine Partners for Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to training service dogs, home companion dogs, and residential companion dogs to assist individuals who have a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities.

This year’s effort was coordinated by teachers Lauren Bogus, Jen Graceffo, and Katie McIntyre. Lauren shared that fourth graders had been researching organizations that work with animals for their Inquiry Exhibition project.

“Children have such a connection to pets and animals,” Lauren said. “We thought this would be a wonderful connection.”

As part of the Children for Children learning experience, students participate in unique, hands-on lessons where they learn about the organization and the importance of taking action in the world around them.

To raise money, students conducted a raffle of student-made items during the school’s open house. Raffle items included blankets, hand-painted flowerpots, notecards, magnets, and books. Students collected change during PAWsitive Change Days, and a donation drive was held to collect items including doggie waste bags, dog toys, dog treats, and paper towels.

Students and staff were encouraged to share a photo of their pet for a special bulletin board display, and special-themed days included taking a favorite stuffed animal to school, wearing school colors, and promoting kindness. With the slogan, “A Simple Act Can Make a Difference,” the Streams’ Children for Children community service initiative was first launched in the 2004–05 school

Poster Contest Winner

Lillian Pfeiffer, a student at Streams Elementary, placed first among third graders in the Pittsburgh region in the National Energy Technology Laboratory’s (NETL) 2023 Earth Day Poster Contest and will have her award-winning artwork displayed in the U.S. Department of Energy headquarters in Washington, D.C.

year. The goal was simple: expose students to other children in the world who are in need, and show them how they can make a difference.

Each year, the school selects a different charitable organization; the only prerequisite is that the organization must help children. Since 2005, the Children for Children initiative has raised more than $100,000 to benefit local, regional, national, and international organizations. n

Lillian Pfeiffer

Colby Recker and London Gregory River DeGiovanni and Abby Daly

(l/r) Nikola Tannenbaum, Madeleine Swab, and Brooks Coffman

Collecting Sports Equipment for Kids in Need

As part of the USCHS Middle Years Program, students are required to complete a final project aiming to better our world at the end of the program. Peyton McGregor chose to dedicate her project to collecting sports equipment for underprivileged children across the globe.

During her research, Peyton found Uncommon Sports Group (USG). USG, and the organization Clean Out For A Cause, work together to collect and deliver used sports equipment to kids who otherwise cannot afford it.

When asked about why she chose this topic for her project, Peyton replied, “I grew up playing sports and sports continue to be a big part of my life and I wanted less fortunate kids to be able to experience this same joy.”

By the end of the drive, Peyton had collected everything from uniforms, socks, shoes, sports bags and gloves, to balls, cones, skates, golf clubs, basketballs, bats, and lacrosse and hockey sticks.

After Peyton sorted and packaged all of the equipment, Clean Out For A Cause came to pick up the boxes, sending them on their way to sports-eager children all over the world. n

Strong Foundations Psychological Associates:

We provide psychotherapy and evaluations using research-based strategies to help individuals and families feel their best.

Individual Therapy Services:

We can help children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s stressors. Our staff has extensive experience teaching cognitive behavioral strategies to manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, trauma, grief, and OCD. When we work with kids and teens, we involve parents in the process so they feel informed and empowered too.

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy:

For children ages 2-6 years we provide PCIT. PCIT improves the parent-child relationships to increase child compliance and emotion regulation skills.

Neuropsychological and Developmental Evaluations:

Our psychologists provide in-depth testing to accurately diagnose children, teens, and adults. We can help individuals understand their relative strengths and weaknesses better and access the support they need to succeed in school and work. We commonly evaluate for ADHD, Autism, Learning Differences, and Giftedness.

Parent Guidance:

This is an opportunity for parents to consult with a child and adolescent mental health expert to learn the best strategies to parent their particular child. This is a great option when parents desire more time and structure to concentrate on how they can best help their child, or when a child is not motivated themselves to participate in therapy but a parent is concerned about their well-being.

Family and Couples’ Counseling:

We have family specialists who work to reduce family conflict and to increase family closeness. We help couples learn healthy ways to communicate and to work together to accomplish their shared goals.

Peyton McGregor with the sports equipment that she collected for underprivileged children.

Dr. Manjari Kulkarni Orthodontist

“Is this normal?” How to Know if You Should Be Concerned About Your Child’s Mood, and How to Help Elizabeth

Reitz, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist

At Strong Foundations Psychological Associates, we often get asked whether a child’s behavior is normal and should a parent be worried. Generally, if your child’s behavior is challenging enough that it makes you feel you need more tools as a parent, or causes you or them distress, then it deserves attention. It’s especially important to seek consultation if a behavior or mood is getting in the way of your child participating in daily activities, if you notice a change in their level of engagement with activities they usually enjoy, or increased irritability or withdrawal. But even if you don’t see these red flags, parents can learn strategies to manage emotions effectively.

Much like learning opportunities with math, music, or sports, therapy is a place to learn about emotions and how to cope with them. We use research-backed techniques of CognitiveBehavioral Therapy to teach kids about how their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts are all related. We explain if we want to feel differently, we can change how we act and how we think to help ourselves. We teach kids how to calm down and how to reframe the thoughts that drive their intense emotions. We also teach parents how to scaffold those skills in their kids, and how to react when kids are emotional so that kids can learn how to manage emotions effectively.

A favorite skill to teach parents is Emotion Coaching, a

collaborative way to help kids through big emotions by prompting children to label how they feel and engaging in problem-solving together. It works best for parents to approach kids about emotions when they are calm (what we like to call the Green Zone) or when they are emotional but not yet in that overwhelmed state (the Yellow Zone), not when they aren’t able to really talk or come up with solutions because their brains are flooded with too much emotion to think clearly (the Red Zone). If your child is in the Red Zone, we suggest on focusing on soothing and comforting them before trying to get them to talk about how they feel.

There are three main steps to Emotion Coaching: label, empathize, and problem-solve. There is some limit-setting in there too, but your focus is to help your child say how they feel, help them know you understand and see their experience, and to work together to come up with a solution. Emotion Coaching gives parents a way to connect with their kids in moments that previously could have felt frustrating and unrewarding, and allows kids and parents to feel a part of the same team in moments of big emotions. Your mantra when using this parenting technique is: “All emotions are OK, not all behaviors are OK. We are going to work together to come up with a solution.” n

The staff at Strong Foundations works with parents to help them learn the most effective ways of helping their children manage their emotions. If you have ever wondered, “Is this normal?” or if you would like to learn more parenting techniques that are backed by science and that can help make your family life run more smoothly, contact them at 412-368-2211 or visit their website at sfpgh.com.

See ad for Strong Foundations Psychological Associates on page 47.

Proud member of:

Welcome New Provider Donald Ravasio, DO

Dr. Donald Ravasio, an orthopedic surgeon at Washington Health System, sees patients at WHS Outpatient Center – Neighbor Health in Washington and the WHS Medical Plaza in Peters Township. His philosophy is to treat his patients as family. He believes that a trusting doctor-patient relationship is essential to providing excellent healthcare.

To read his full bio visit whs.org/Ravasio

Rediscover yourself in good company.

Maintenance-free living, chef-prepared dining, and luxurious amenities are yours as a resident of Friendship Village of South Hills. Spend your days pursuing personal passions, or simply en j oy i ng t i me a mo ng new fri ends.

We invite you to come experience Friendship Vi ll ag e of South H il ls fo r y our self.

To

more, call

0 o r v is i t FriendshipVillagePA.com.

The Benefits of a Life Care Community

Retirement is an exceptional milestone, one where we can finally pursue our own passions and savor the lifestyle that we’ve worked so hard to achieve. Many older adults find that life in a senior living community gives them a more social, maintenance-free, and enjoyable retirement than trying to keep up a traditional family home.

When is the right time to move to a senior living community? This looks different for everyone; however, many seniors regret not moving into their community sooner. While there may be some apprehension in the face of such a big life change, moving to a senior living community as soon as possible can be beneficial for many reasons. With our care needs always changing, moving to a Life Care community—which offers on-site health services like memory care, skilled nursing, assisted living, and home health—can give you long-term security and comfort knowing that if your needs change, your community doesn’t have to. Plus, doing so gives you more time to enjoy the many other benefits of independent living!

Life Care communities offer residents access to higher levels of care within that community as health needs change over time. Life Care residents enjoy their own private residence, access to a wide range of amenities, and on-site, long-term care for life. Residents gain access to care through a contractual agreement that requires an upfront entrance fee, as well as a predictable fee each month. Depending on the contract type, residents need

never worry about their monthly fees changing even if their health care needs do.

Having these options at the ready save family members from worry. If their loved one needs therapy or suffers a health event, they won’t have to make decisions on their loved one’s behalf. They can be confident their loved one will be attended to quickly by people they know. If a senior has to move from independent living to assisted living, or requires an additional level of care, the transfer is handled seamlessly within the community. Plus, spouses who develop different care needs can remain on the same campus and won’t have to separate. Being able to provide different levels of care in one community only scratches the surface of what Life Care has to offer the residents of a senior retirement community.

At Friendship Village of South Hills, the spiritual, emotional, and physical wellness of our residents is our top priority. Nestled in a quiet, wooded area near Pittsburgh, our Life Care community is a sanctuary for seniors looking to get the most out of their retirement. We host lectures, performances, live music, and other programming to ensure they have every opportunity to be active and engaged with their neighbors. Our community is also home to multiple dining venues and a fitness center with a personal trainer. n

To learn more about the options at Friendship Village of South Hills, call at 724-390-6330. See ad for Friendship Village on this page.

Dr.

How Dental Implants Work to Provide Beautiful Teeth and Better Health

Dr. Mohammed Khan, DDS, MD, USC resident and parent

A full set of healthy teeth is an important aspect of your body to maintain your overall good health. Proper chewing and digestion are dependent upon a strong, healthy, full set of teeth. Unfortunately, missing teeth can cause greater problems in addition to damaging your smile. Missing teeth can prematurely wear out your other remaining teeth through improper chewing and bite. You may also experience TMJ, jaw pain, breathing issues, and be prone to infection.

Dental implants give the most natural look, prevent bone loss, maintain the overall shape of the jaw, and restore the patient’s ability to chew properly. Preventing bone loss is important because it helps to maintain both the health of the mouth and overall appearance and beauty. The three drawings illustrate the progression of how a face changes shape after losing teeth, and then after bone loss over more time. Dental implants prevent premature aging and bone loss caused by missing teeth.

A dental implant consists of a titanium implant that fuses to the jawbone, just like a hip or knee joint replacement. Oral

surgeons are qualified to surgically place an implant under either local anesthesia or IV sedation in the office. It is a surprisingly straightforward process for the patient. Dental implants are the best permanent solution for one or many missing teeth, as these dental implants are stronger than other solutions because they permanently integrate directly into the patient’s jawbone. The beauty of the implants is that they feel like your own teeth. With only crowns showing above the gumline, they give the appearance of a natural tooth with beautiful natural color, which gives you a beautiful smile.

The best time to place an implant is right after the tooth has been removed or lost, while the bone architecture is still intact to house this medical grade titanium.

We place the implant into the jawbone and let it heal. Then your general dentist places an abutment or crown, completing the dental implant process. Dental implant surgery is considered a minor surgery, done mostly with local anesthesia. Patients report that they were pleasantly surprised by how little pain or discomfort they experienced. Most people need no pain medicine, or just a few doses of over-the-counter pain medication after the procedure. In some implants, especially in the visible areas of the front of the mouth, the oral surgeon may place a temporary crown the same day, while you heal and wait for your final crown placement by your dentist.

Replacing missing teeth is an important part of your dental health that contributes to your overall health. A full set of healthy teeth is more than just a way to chew your food or a pretty smile but provides health, well-being, and beauty. n

Normal Profile After Tooth Loss After Bone Loss

Rotary Night of Giving

Mary Kirk, Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Breakfast Club Rotary Secretary

There is one night of the year that every Upper St. ClairBethel Park Breakfast Club Rotarian looks forward to—the Annual Night of Giving (NOG). During the 2023 NOG, held on April 20 at Valley Brook Country Club in McMurray, the club donated more than $53,000 in grant money to 20 local and two international charities. Special guest host Bonny Diver, 3WS Pittsburgh radio personality, kicked off the night and introduced each charity.

“This night is the culmination of all the hard work done throughout the year, starting with the Chicken BBQ fundraiser held each fall,” said event co-chair Bill Findle. With 90 people in attendance, including half a dozen BBQ sponsors, there was not a dry eye in the house as each charity received their check and thanked the Rotary for these critical donations.

“From life-saving security devises assisting victims of domestic violence from Watchful Shepard, to solar lanterns for the homeless from Light in my City, this night was about celebrating our community and how together we make a difference,” said event co-chair and BBQ sponsor Scott Churchill.

As a first-time grant recipient, Bill Henderson, a board member from Crop & Kettle, was thrilled to share that this grant will be used to build a community garden in Ambridge. Crop & Kettle provides tangible life skills and culinary job training each semester to more than a dozen students. “This grant means everything to our students who will learn the life cycle of food management, from crop cultivation and dinner preparation to catering.”

Henderson noted, “Upon graduation, our students have not only gained tangible marketable job skills but have been transformed. It’s more than learning how to cook. It’s realizing that with hard work and dedication you can change the course of your life and have hope for the future. We are grateful to the Rotary of Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park, Breakfast Club, for this donation.”

David and Marci Heckler, owners of Comfort Supplies Inc. and platinum BBQ sponsor, were impressed by the number and variety of charities supported.

“It was a feel-good night for sure,” said Marci Heckler. “And hearing how each charity will be using our donation was inspiring. It’s great to be a part of something so worthwhile and with a direct impact on our local community.” n

2023 grant recipients at the Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Breakfast Club Rotary’s Night of Giving.

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.

Township Administration

To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions.

2023 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.

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Mark S. Mansfield Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

Ed Poljak Director of Information Technology

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings

April 3, 2023

Approximately 6 people attended.

Recognition

•Commissioner Plutko presented a Proclamation to Christian Gmiter, Library Director, in recognition of National Library Week, April 23 –29, 2023.

The Board

•Adopted Resolution No. 1738 for Plan Revision for New Land Development (Planning Module) for PLC23-0001—Southwood Hospital—Nonresidential Planned Development—Final Approval.

Approval of Contracts

•J & J Garage Doors

$78,000 Smithfield, PA

Public Works Garage Doors Replacement and Refurbishment

May 1, 2023

Approximately 20 people attended.

Recognitions

•Commissioner Orchowski presented a Proclamation to Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services recognizing May 21–27, 2023 as National Emergency Medical Services Week in Upper St. Clair with the theme “EMS: Where Emergency Care Begins.”

•Commissioner Enck 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.

The Board

•Adopted Bill No. 4-23 Re. PLC23-0002—Boyce Road Residences—Planned Development—Final Approval.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1739 Re. Adoption of Resolution for Plan Revision for New Land Development (Planning Module) for PLC23-0002— Boyce Road Residences—Planned Development.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1740 Re. Establish Public Hearing PLC23-1303—Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Modify the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM District Restricted Light Industrial District.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1741 Re. Establish Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1302—Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Add Standards and Criteria for Short Term Rentals.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1742 Re. Approval for Grant Application Through the Commonwealth Financing Authority for the Drake Trail Project.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1743 Re. Approval for a Grant Application Through the Department of Community and Economic Development for the Morton Complex/Park Rehabilitation and Development Project.

•Affirmed Option #3 for the Morton Fields Complex.

Approval of Contracts

•East West Manufacturing

$150,800 Pittsburgh, PA

Community & Recreation Center Rooftop Unit #10 Replacement

•Ballard*King

$ 35,845 Highlands Ranch, CO

Community & Recreation Center Post Covid-19 Feasibility Assessment

June 5, 2023

Approximately 4 people attended.

The Board

•Adopted Resolution No. 1744 Re. Approval for an Allegheny County Blight Removal Program (ACBRP) Grant Application through the Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) Division for the demolition of 1600 Painters Run Road.

•Adopted Resolution No. 1745 Re. Identifying Vacant and Dilapidated Structures with the Township.

Approval of Contracts

•C. Crump, Inc.

$167,310 Hubbard, OH

2023 Ravine Park Stream Restoration

•Stephenson Equipment, Inc.

$69,900 Lilly, PA

9-foot Aluminum Dump Body Upfit with electronic over hydraulic salt dispensing controls, liquid dispensing controls, stainless steel salt spreader, and 9-foot snowplow

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

2023 Citizens’ Police Academy

The Upper St. Clair Police Academy is hosting its 2023 Citizens’ Police Academy this coming fall. The academy is a special opportunity available to adults 21 years of age and older who live, work, or conduct business in Upper St. Clair. The course schedule and application is available to the public, both in person at the police department and on the township website at twpusc.org.

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 twpusc.org to apply. n

For more information, contact police administration, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m., at 412-833-1113.

Renovation Update

Alex Pepke, USC Communications Coordinator

The Township of Upper St. Clair’s NextGen Municipal Building Renovation Project is in the home stretch.

After being approved in the summer of 2019, the project was put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges faced, the project is almost at the finish line—and what a transformation it will be when the last nail is hammered and the final coat of paint is applied. The work is expected to be fully completed this fall, and the new space will be put to good use.

Renovated Police Department

The most recent work has been a complete makeover and expansion of the Upper St. Clair Police Department. A new police department entrance has been added in the main lobby visitor hub, which now gives residents easy access to police, community development, administration, and the tax office.

The existing space in the police department has been fully renovated and expanded, plus a new addition to the building has been added. The interior renovations include modernized offices, new paint, new carpet, and a waiting area where members of the public will be greeted by a receptionist during normal business hours. Most importantly, the renovation has provided the police department with more square footage, something that it desperately needed. The last time the police department had a renovated space was in 1986.

The dispatch center has been given upgraded technology and additional space that will help our dispatchers provide even better service to our community.

On the outside of the building towards Municipal Park and Founders Field, you will notice a new parking facility for police vehicles that will give officers easier access to the inside of the building and their new and modernized locker rooms. This addition to the building will provide the police department with a more centralized and secure area to enter and exit the building.

“Since the police department moved into the space it has occupied for the last 36 years, our department has grown,” said USC Chief of Police Jonathan Wharton. “Not only do we have more police personnel, but with the ever-changing innovations in law enforcement, the need for additional storage and equipment has increased. The renovation will provide room for operations of both administrative and patrol functions, as well as areas to accommodate our increasing technology.”

This renovation will allow the USC Police Department to operate in a more efficient and organized manner while continuing to provide residents with the top-class service that they expect. Keeping the community safe is always the police department’s number one priority, and this refreshed space helps them do that by equipping them with the resources and space necessary to do so.

Community Development

The Department of Community Development was relocated to the main floor of the Municipal Building last summer in the wing formerly occupied by the USC School District. The new location

gives residents easy access to community development staff by entering through the main lobby between the administrative offices and the police department entrances. Whether you need to turn in a construction permit or have a question about zoning, the community development staff is easy to find and willing to help.

The interior space has been renovated with new carpets and office space, and new storage units allow the community development staff to store all relevant documents and materials in one secure location. Upon entering the community development area, residents will be greeted by a receptionist in the renovated waiting area.

Third Floor Flex Space

Located on the third floor of the library is a newlyrenovated flex space that provides study rooms, a meeting room, and more community space. The goal of this area is to give residents another section of the building to relax, study, read, and attend programs. In addition, this area will have access to a new outdoor rooftop courtyard, which will be open to the public soon.

Outdoor Rooftop Courtyard

Take a few steps out the door of the flex space to reach the new outdoor rooftop courtyard. This entirely new space is a great spot to catch some sun, get in a few minutes of reading, or simply relax. The USC Public Works team will decorate the courtyard with flowers, plants, and seating so residents can enjoy the outdoors and breathe in some fresh air for one minute, or one hour.

This is another entirely new space made possible by some of the changes in the library—and if you haven’t seen that yet, come by to check it out, along with the rooftop courtyard, once it is open!

New Library

The redesign and renovation of the USC Library was completed earlier this year, and patrons can now go from the new Kids and Teens Library to the Adult department without walking up or down any flights of stairs, thanks to the new connector space. Everything is on one floor. With the new connectivity of the spaces, visitors can go from reading a book online at the computer stations in the Adult department to playing with your child in the play room in less than a minute.

Not only is the layout more efficient, it’s also easier on the eyes. New carpet, new lighting, new paint, and new furniture give visitors a beautiful refresh to one of our community’s most valued spaces. n

Changes Coming for Trash and Recycling

Alex Pepke, USC Communications Coordinator

All industries go through change— and the waste collection business is no different. Next year, there will be a few changes for Upper St. Clair’s residential trash and recycling program.

In June, the South Hills Area Council of Governments (SHACOG) put out a joint bid for solid waste collection, removal, and disposal services. Starting Jan. 1, 2024, Upper St. Clair, along with many other South Hills municipalities, will begin a refuse and recycling contract with the successful bidder.

Currently, the township-contracted service allows for “somewhat unlimited” amounts of trash to put out for curbside collection. However, starting in January 2024, there will be limitations regarding how much can be put out within the parameters of the township’s new solid waste collection and removal contract.

Below are some of the key highlights and changes that will go into effect at the beginning of next year:

• No trash outside of either cart/container will be accepted, except for up to two bulk items per month. USC will be assigned a designated week each month for bulk item collection.

• Only one township-issued 96-gallon cart/ container for weekly garbage and one 65or 96-gallon cart/container for bi-weekly recycling will be included in the regular contracted service.

• Residents may, however, obtain an additional container(s) for an annually adjusted fee directly through the waste collection company.

• The township will be ordering a number of additional 96-gallon recycling carts/ containers to comply with the new restrictions for those households that may currently be using two 65-gallon carts/

containers. The old 65-gallon carts/containers may be swapped out for the new 96-gallon cart/container.

• The township will continue to accept leaf and yard waste at the Boyce Compost Site on Boyce Road once per month. Except during the periods when the curbside yard waste pickups are scheduled per year, any grass or yard waste that households wish to be disposed of must be included in your trash cart/ container.

• Glass will again be included in recycling, but the successful drop-off program at Village Square will remain an option.

• Additional services, such as house cleanouts, disposal of construction materials, etc., will still be available directly through the waste collection company for an additional fee.

Tips

• If you have large or bulk items around the house that you need to get rid of, the time to do that is now—or by the end of the year. Currently, you can put extra trash outside of the container and it will be picked up. Starting next year, extra items outside of the cart/container will not be collected.

• If you do not already have one, it could be a good time to consider using a mulching lawn mower. A mulching lawn mower redistributes fine-cut grass clippings back into your yard, removing the need for bagging and disposing of the clippings, putting them into a compost pile, or dropping them off at the yard waste collection site at the Boyce Compost Site on Boyce Road.

• If you do not have a trash compactor, you may want to consider that purchase to maximize your refuse container capacity.

• Now and in the future, the township

recommends taking advantage of the drop-off glass recycling at Village Square Mall, which is available seven days a week in the blue recycling dumpster located at 5000 Oxford Drive. You can deposit glass bottles, jars, and jugs of all colors (no sorting required).

We want everyone to know that the Township of Upper St. Clair, along with other South Hills municipalities, is doing its best to provide the most sensible and advantageous option available considering the current conditions of the waste collection industry.

Several North Hills municipalities began new contracts earlier this year with similar changes that have been dictated by the industry. It was noted that approximately six percent of households chose to purchase an extra 96-gallon trash container to accommodate their family’s disposal needs.

More information will be given to residents later this year from both the township and the new waste collection company. Information will also be posted on the township’s website at twpusc.org. n

BASED LOCALLY IN THE SOUTH HILLS

DEPARTMENT

Ted Hale Named Fire Chief

Alex Pepke, USC Communications Coordinator

The Township of Upper St. Clair has a new fire chief.

Ted Hale began his new duties with the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department in June of this year. In his new role, he will lead all operations of the department.

After almost two years of cooperative study and review with the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department, the board of commissioners approved the Organizational Assessment and Strategy Recommendations for the fire department. Contained within this strategic plan were 11 recommendations to strengthen and support the long-term viability of the volunteer fire department.

Upon forming an Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee made up of township, fire department, and elected representatives, the township initiated steps to meet objective number one of the strategic plan, which included appointing a township fire chief.

This was a significant hire for the township, as Hale became the first full-time fire chief employed by Upper St. Clair when he started.

“Following this extensive multi-year study of the fire department’s operations, we are pleased to welcome Chief Ted Hale to our community and the township organization,” said Township Manager Matthew Serakowski. “We are looking forward to continuing to cooperatively work with the volunteer fire department as we navigate implementation of the strategic plan recommendations. We are confident in Chief Hale’s experience and background and believe he will provide the leadership and expertise necessary to allow the department to continue to build on a strong foundation of providing exemplary fire service delivery.”

“I am humbled and honored to be selected as the first ever full-time fire chief for the Township of Upper St. Clair,” said Hale. “I would like to thank the administrative staff and the board of commissioners for giving me this opportunity. I’m looking forward to working with the current volunteer firefighters, who are dedicated and committed to providing the best possible service to the residents of Upper St. Clair. I believe my 30-plus years of service as a career and a volunteer firefighter have given me the training, knowledge, and experience needed to lead the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department into this new and exciting chapter.”

Hale brings experience in both volunteer, combination, and career fire service organizations. He’s familiar with the South Hills, serving as the fire chief at the Library Volunteer Fire Department for 22 years. In that role, he coordinated and managed all fire department activities, including training, fire protection, and prevention. He also implemented programs for recruitment and retention, was responsible for community outreach programs, and established and implemented standard operating guidelines for the department.

Beyond his work there, Hale has been with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire since 2011, working as a firefighter and an emergency medical technician (EMT). He responded to emergencies and provided lifesaving procedures to residents, but would also handle recruitment, training, and equipment maintenance. In addition to those duties, he was an active member of the occupational health and safety committee.

From 1996–2011, he served in numerous roles with the Wilkinsburg Fire Department, including fire captain. While there, he supervised tactical and task level activities and managed community outreach programs such as the Explorer Program, Project Stay Alarmed, Prom Promise, and more.

Adding one more line of experience onto Hale’s already impressive resume, he has been a fire academy instructor at the Allegheny County Fire Academy since 2004.

Hale is a liaison to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, a former vicechairman of the Allegheny County Juvenile Fire Setters Task Force, and a former training officer for the South Hills Area Council of Governments (SHACOG) Fire Chief’s Advisory Board. n

Ted Hale

OF FIRE PROTECTION

Lithium-ion Battery Safety

Steve Henk, USCVFD Vice President

Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular rechargeable battery used today. Found in cell phones, laptops, electric bikes and scooters, cars, and other devices around the home, lithiumion batteries are everywhere and could be a potential hazard if not handled and used properly. Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries have increased dramatically across the country, and incidents are becoming more common as the number of lithium-ion powered devices rises.

Lithium-ion batteries are considered safe to use, but with the increase in the number of devices using them comes the potential for additional failures. Manufacturing defects, age, and misuse are some common reasons for a battery failure to occur. Lithium-ion batteries, which are constructed with flammable material, can experience thermal runaway. Thermal runaway, the primary risk related to lithium-ion batteries, is an uncontrolled chain reaction that can lead to a fire or battery explosion.

There are a couple of best practices to follow when using lithium-ion batteries. It is recommended to buy UL-certified devices when buying a device with a lithium-ion battery. Online retailers sometimes make it difficult to know who or where you are getting the device from. Make sure you are using a reputable manufacturer and inspect the battery or device before use. Verify there is no cracking, bulging, or leaking from the battery. It is best to keep and store batteries in a cool, dry place. Always follow the

manufacturer’s charging instructions. Never charge your battery or device under your pillow or in bed. Prevent overcharging of the battery by not charging overnight or leaving the battery charging unattended. Finally, keep the device plugged into a wall outlet when charging and resist using a power strip or overloading a plug. If the device becomes unusually hot while charging, unplug it immediately.

If you do experience an issue with a lithium-ion battery, evacuate, close the door, and call the fire department immediately. Standard fire extinguishers and water may not prevent a battery from burning or from the fire spreading. Once a fire has started, battery cells are known to explode and spread to another battery cell. Additionally, the lithium-ion battery can release harmful gasses during a thermal runaway. Once the visible fire is extinguished, the battery can still generate heat and re-ignite. The battery cell can re-ignite hours or days after all visible fire is extinguished.

Members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department have been actively seeking out and participating in new certified training classes for lithium-ion battery safety and electric car fires. As battery technology advances, so do the techniques deployed by the fire department to combat the hazard. Chances are low that you will experience an issue with a lithium-ion battery, but be sure to follow the best practices, manufacturers guidelines, and call the fire department if an issue does arise. n

A little—okay, a lot—of rain couldn’t dampen spirits at Upper St. Clair’s 2023 Community Day! The day’s activities began with the opening ceremony at USC Veterans Park, which included the Marine Corps League South Hills Detachment 726, the Chanticlairs under the direction of Lorraine Milovac, and remarks by USCHS student council president Maura Joyce and State Representative Natalie Mihalek. Residents enjoyed the parade, Hottest Dog contest, and games and other activities at the midway area along McLaughlin Run Road, as well as activities at the Gilfillan Farm and USCVFD’s main fire station on Route 19. As always, festivities concluded with people cheering for their adopted ducks during the Community Foundation’s’ Duck Race.

Mark your 2024 calendar for May 18 (tentative date) to get together for our community’s annual celebration! For more information or to volunteer for 2024, contact the high school student activities office or the Upper St. Clair Recreation Department.

Many Thanks!

Thank you to everyone who helped make Community Day 2023 such a success! Thank you to the many individuals from multiple departments at the School District and Township who planned and organized the event, along with the volunteers, students, community organizations, and local businesses who worked to make the day enjoyable for residents of all ages.

A special thank you to Waffles INCaffeinated for opening early for breakfast that day, to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and emma’s KAFE & DELI for their sponsorship of the petting zoo, and to Colussy Chevrolet for providing trucks and drivers for the parade.

Photos courtesy of Theeya Chen and AnneMarie Kopach

Details

2023 Upper St. Clair Community Day

H test Dog C test

Rules

Hottest Dog Winners

The wet weather didn’t deter the entrants to Howard Hanna’s popular Hottest Dog Contest. Top dogs were:

Best Tail Wag

Pippa—Owner: Emma Schaefer

Best Costume

Gibson—Owner: Emily Powel

Pet Owner Look Alike

Baxter—Owner: Michele Fibbi

Cutest Puppy

Teddy—Owner: Erma Dantonio

Proceeds from Howard Hanna’s Hottest Dog Contest benefit Children’s Hospital Free Care Fund.

USC Recreation and Leisure Services

United Senior Citizens

It’s been a busy spring season for the Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens! Their programs included an English lunch and trivia day, entertainer Craig Zinger, an Easter lunch that included a lovely display of Easter bonnets, bagpiper David Keith, the USCHS jazz ensemble, birthday celebrations, and their bake sale and bingo on Community Day. The return of warmer weather brought the popular Friday Afternoons in the Park at Boyce-Mayview.

If you’re age 55 or older and retired, consider joining the group, which meets most Wednesdays at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC), located at 1770 McLauglin Run Road. (Spouses of eligible members may also join, even if under age 55). Informal activities begin at 10 a.m., with members holding a brief business meeting at noon, followed by lunch. In addition, there are various outings held throughout the year. n

For additional information about any older adult programming, contact the community programs department at 412-221-1099.

Senior Spotlight: Bob and Flo Kenny

Bob and Flo Kenny met at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba, in 1955. Flo was part of the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps and Bob was enlisted in the U.S. Navy. They married in August 1956, and upon completion of his naval service, they moved to Boston where Bob completed his education at Brown University.

The Kennys have lived in USC since 1964, where they raised five children. All the children are married and have scattered, settling in New York, Indiana, Florida, Maine, and Texas. They have 12 grandchildren and seven (soon to be nine) great-grandchildren.

Bob worked for US Steel, Dravo, Hillman Company, and Trinity Industries. His main job was consolidating companies in

the construction industry during a period of consolidation and attrition of companies. Flo was a Camp Fire Girls leader and among their projects was creating the fire circle located behind the MAC. After raising her children in the ’60s and ’70s, Flo resumed her nursing career at Kane Hospital. Vacations were spent at their Rhode Island beach house—a house built for eight, but often overflowing with 20. There they would swim, sail, eat chowder, and enjoy beautiful sunsets.

The Kennys have traveled to every state and returned to Cuba where they met. Their children tease: “They could never drive by a national park or a battlefield without stopping.”

Now their pastimes include solving wooden puzzles, board games, and breaking bread with family and friends. They are appreciative of God and our forefathers and believe in America and a promise of a bountiful future. n

Photo credit: Mary Oppel, Joyce and Wen Soung

Bob and Flo Kenny

USC Township Silver Card

The township Silver Card is free and available to residents ages 62 and older. To obtain a Silver Card and receive access to a select number of group exercise classes, USC’s three-hole golf course, as well as a complimentary summer tennis permit, visit the Community and Recreation Center, 1551 Mayview Road.

Silver card applications are available 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Monday–Friday. A valid photo ID showing USC residency is required upon application.

Residents who acquired their Silver Card prior to 2019 are encouraged to re-apply for and receive a new, updated card.

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.

ACCESS Paratransit and Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card

Applications for the Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card and the ACCESS 65 Plus Coordinated, Shared-Ride Paratransit Service are available at the C&RC. Application must be made in person at the C&RC during business hours, Monday–Friday. Proof of age (65) is required at the time of application.

From the Director’s Desk

Christian Gmiter, Library Director

The People Behind Your Library

For most people, the word library conjures up images of neatly shelved books—and rightly so. Here at the USC library, we have thousands of books to choose from, not to mention a great number of other circulating items, including books on CD, DVDs, music CDs, magazines, board and card games, and more.

Our library is also part of the countywide Library Consortium which expands our offerings even more. Due to this status, we can offer our patrons thousands of additional materials from every library in Allegheny County via an efficient loaning system.

Personally, when I think of the word library, I visualize my coworkers, who work on your behalf to ensure you receive the items you want quickly—and enjoy a public space that’s filled with a diverse selection of materials for children and adults. During any given day, our library staff is:

• Offering suggestions for books, music, movies and more—and taking your suggestions to heart. (We love books, too).

• Helping you find a specific book you’re looking for on topics, such as gardening, local history, and self-help, as well as thrillers, mysteries, and the classics.

• Creating book displays designed to spotlight the latest additions to our collection—or entice you to choose something that may be out of your comfort zone.

• Encouraging you to take one of our free donated puzzles or borrow one of our popular board or card games.

• Scheduling and holding virtual and in-person programs and events for adults and children, including summer reading, story time, and story strolls at the USC rec center.

• Readying rooms for book clubs, movie showings, bingo, and other educational and entertaining events.

• Checking materials in and out, including emptying the book drops and helping people learn to use self-checkout.

• Processing holds, which includes materials for our patrons from other libraries and materials from our library to other patrons in Allegheny County.

• Fulfilling library card requests and updating card information.

• Helping people make copies and use our public computers.

• Introducing patrons to our free Libby and Hoopla reading apps and the Biblio streaming service.

• Shelf reading materials, which makes it easier for patrons to find items by genre, author, call number, subject matter, and more.

• Helping people create/polish their resumes or hone their interviewing skills, during our ongoing Friday Job Seekers Workshop.

• Answering a myriad of questions in-person and via phone. Recent examples include providing directions to the T-stop at South Hills Village, helping a patron figure out her voting ward, district, and polling place, and answering how Johnny Depp got a scar above his eye (a childhood accident, in case you were wondering).

• Determining which books to add to our collection and which to retire.

• Processing new books, including covering them with book jackets to extend their shelf life and cataloging them, so they’re searchable by you and other libraries.

• Introducing patrons to our extensive eLibrary services that can help them learn a new language, find a new or used car, research their family history, or access online health information.

• Helping patrons use the interlibrary loan (ILL) system for hard-to-find items. Perhaps the most important thing we do is offer our patrons a welcoming and friendly space; a place that feels like home and nurtures a lifelong love of reading, learning, and exploring the world around us. Please, come in soon—and often—and let us be of service.

Chris

Meet Your Library Staff

Melissa Waldron Library Assistant

Q: When did you join the USC library staff?

A: In January 2020, shortly before COVID closed the library. I returned to the library in August 2022.

Q: What made you say “yes” to the position?

A: I love books. My first job when I graduated from college was in a library. Having a chance to work again in a library was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

Q: What does your workday typically include?

A: Books and more books!

I work at the circulation desk in the children’s section, so there is check in and out, answering questions about where something might be located, and working on any special projects.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?

A: I love helping the kids who come into the library. Seeing how excited they get when they find a book they can’t wait to read is rewarding.

Q: What do you love most about libraries in general?

A: I love the endless possibilities of a library. It doesn’t matter if it’s using the library to learn something new or getting lost in a book, the library provides these opportunities to everyone regardless of where a person comes from.

Q: What’s the last book you read and would recommend?

I recently finished reading “Murder on Millionaire’s Row” by Erin Lindsey. It is the first book in a mystery series set in New York City during the Gilded Age. It is a mystery with a little bit of romance and paranormal thrown in. I’ve also been reading “Madly, Deeply” about Alan Rickman and am finding it very interesting.

Q: What do you want people to know about the USC library?

There are a lot of activities happening at the library once again and the staff is constantly working on new programs and ideas for our patrons.

Q: People may be surprised to know that…?

A: I love to bake and my family is always requesting that I make them my chocolate chip cookies.

Melissa Waldron

Adult Programs

A Night to Remember with Edward Bonner

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Aug. 30

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join the library for our spotlight series on local authors as we welcome author and historian Edward Bonner for a book talk and signing. Learn about the B-25 Ghost Bomber that went down into the Monongahela River on Jan. 19, 1956, the notorious Biddle Brothers, Frank Gorshin, the Riddler from Batman, the legend of Green Man, and much more. This event will be held in the library multi-purpose room.

Making Your Own Sourdough Starter: Part 1

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Sept. 6

6–7 p.m.

Join Chloe Newman from Crust Worthy and learn to make delicious sourdough bread at home! This 60-minute virtual workshop will teach you all the basics of creating and maintaining a sourdough starter—no prior baking experience of any kind is necessary. Participants can follow along at home (with flour, water, a small clear container, and a digital scale or measuring spoons) to build their own sourdough starter, taking with them plenty of other resources as well for starting their sourdough baking journey.

Making Sourdough Bread at Home: Part 2

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Sept. 13 6:30–8 p.m.

Once you’ve learned how to create and maintain your starter, it’s time to start baking! This 90-minute program with Chloe from Crust Worthy will teach you the basics of baking with sourdough to make beautiful and delicious bread. We will go over the mixing, shaping, and baking of a naturally-leavened wheat loaf. The workshop will include a small tasting of the finished product, as well as the opportunity for participants to take home a bit of Crust Worthy sourdough starter to bake at home. This event will be held in the library multi-purpose room.

John Bingham’s Diplomatic Career in Japan with Sam Kidder

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Sept. 20 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join us for a lecture by historian and linguist Sam Kidder, author of “Of One Blood All Nations: John Bingham: Ohio Congressman’s Diplomatic Career in Meiji Japan” Best known as the father of the crucial Reconstruction Era 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, President Grant appointed Bingham as ambassador to Japan and he went on to become our longest serving ambassador there. Born in Mercer, Pa. and representing a congressional district in eastern Ohio, Bingham had close ties to our immediate region. He played a key role in the Lincoln assassination trial, the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, and the support of businesses in in the South Hills. Kidder’s book will be available for signing and purchase. This event will be held in the library multi-purpose room.

what happens when the crowds stop cheering and the “Welcome Home Hero” parades are over? Bear witness as this diverse tribe of characters struggles to reconcile mythology with reality—and to find meaning in a uniquely American chaos. This event will be held in the library multi-purpose room.

Author Visit with Jennifer Sopko In-Person Event

Wednesday, Oct. 4

6:30–8 p.m.

Join our spotlight series on local authors as we welcome writer and historian Jennifer Sopko for a book talk and signing. Learn about the history, industry and recreation of the Ligonier Valley—western Pennsylvania’s mountain playground— from the French and Indian War and the Ligonier Valley Rail Road, to Idlewild Park and the popular Fort Ligonier Days fall festival. This event will be held in the library multi-purpose room.

Author Visit with Dr. Alaina Roberts In-Person Event

Wednesday, Oct. 11 6–7 p.m.

Mushroom Hike

In-Person Event

Saturday, Sept. 9 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Participate in September’s nature treasure hunt to receive your checklist of clues and treasures. Join Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club’s mushroom identifiers Josh Doty and Jared White and explore the trails of Boyce Mayview Park beginning at Boyce Gardens parking lot.

Author Visit with Brian O’Hare

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Sept. 27 6:30–8 p.m.

Join our spotlight series on local authors as we welcome Brian O’Hare. He will read from and discuss his new book “Surrender.” Journey into the heart of the American hero myth—from the Friday night football fields of Western Pennsylvania to a battalion of Marines in combat. But

In this presentation, Dr. Alaina E. Roberts from the University of Pittsburgh explores the actions and rhetoric of Black and Native people in Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma) in the 19th century. She argues that in this time and space, these people used an exploitative process (what she calls the settler colonial process) to unite their nations and realize freedom and opportunity for themselves. This presentation will make you question the ideas you have about victims and victimizers and oppressed people and oppressors. This event will be held in the library multipurpose room.

Owl Ecology in the Winter In-Person Event

Wednesday, Oct. 18

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join the Audubon Society of Western PA to learn more about owls. Our region has a number of interesting owl

species. Did you know our local owls start breeding in January? How do they hunt and survive the cold, dark, winter months? This program will look at several of our local owl species, their ecology, along with discussing the irruptive Snowy Owl. This event will take place in the library multipurpose room.

USC Home Series: Keeping Your Pets

Safe and Happy Zoom Event

Thursday, Oct. 19

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Robbins Bobbitt from Howard Hanna as we discuss keeping your pets safe and happy. Learn more about Township pet rules, dog houses, cat houses, chicken coops, fences, and more from the experts.

Oakmont Paranormal Society

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Oct. 25

6–7 p.m.

Do you believe in ghosts and spirits? Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a paranormal investigator? Have you ever had your own paranormal experience that you would like answers to? If you answered YES to any of the above, then join us for an evening with an Upper St. Clair paranormal investigator along with local team members as they reveal the secrets and deeper insight into the world of paranormal investigations. They will be showcasing equipment used on investigations, evidence that they gathered from their investigations, and answer questions you may have. This event will take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Adult Programs

plant species, like evergreens, prepare for winter. Meet at South Park’s Oliver Miller Homestead Parking Lot. Please register for this program. Limited to 20 participants.

Author Visit with Joyce Tremel

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Nov. 1 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join local author Joyce Tremel for an author talk and book signing. Joyce was a police secretary for 10 years and is the author of the award-winning Brewing Trouble mysteries, set in the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh, and the upcoming change to “Deadly to the Core (A Cider House Mystery),” scheduled for release in January 2024. This event will take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Mini-Pies with the Pie Place

In-Person Event

Monday, Nov. 6 6:30–8 p.m.

Senior Wellness

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Nov. 15

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join Dr. George Fraudin and learn about the natural way to combat the many issues happening to our body as we age, such as losing strength, mobility, and balance. We will also discuss the groundbreaking non-surgical treatment for spinal stenosis with an 85% success rate. Come and see how to make your golden years truly golden. This event will take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Try-It Tuesday

Try-It Tuesday, with local artist Judé Ernest, is a regular monthly USC Library Adult in-person art program. Each Try-It program is “Make-It and Take-It” and is specially developed to provide an introduction and the fundamentals for creating a variety of crafts. All sessions are limited to 15 participants. If you are unable to make it, please cancel ahead of time to allow for more participants. A $5 donation is suggested. These events will take place in the library multipurpose room.

Positive Negative Notan Art In-Person Event

Tuesday, Sept. 12

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join Upper St. Clair resident and Pie Place owner Jess to learn how to make mini-pies, just in time for Thanksgiving! Limited to 15 participants. There is a $10 supply fee to be paid at the library before you are considered fully registered. If you are unable to make it, please cancel ahead of time to allow for more participants. This event will take place in the library multipurpose room.

Author Visit with Robert Pagano

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Nov. 8 6:30–8 p.m.

This month we will make positive negative Notan art. Notan art explores the arrangement of positive and negative cutout 2D shapes in contrasting colors. Everyone will trace or draw shapes on colored paper, cut paper shapes, and mount them to a background. The Notan composition process is rewarding and can be addictive.

Quilled Thanksgiving Card In-Person Event

Tuesday, Oct. 10 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month we will make a quilled Thanksgiving card. Try your hand at simple paper quilling manipulation techniques while creating a 3D Thanksgiving card to give or display.

Fall Foliage Hike

In-Person Event

Thursday, Oct. 26

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join the park rangers for a hike and experience the changing of the seasons. Learn why trees change color, what the different colors mean, and how other

“Irises for Alan” is a coming-of-age story whose main character explores some fundamental and difficult questions that we all face while growing up. The author will discuss the book and share his thoughts on intentional vs. inspirational writing. This event will take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Tiny Pot Gnome In-Person Event

Tuesday, Nov. 14 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month we will create darling hanging gnomes from tiny ceramic pots, yarn, and wood beads.

Kids Library

Join Our Mailing List

Sign up to receive emails from Upper St. Clair Township Library. You’ll receive periodic emails announcing weekly story times for children, monthly activity times for tween and teens, enrichment and “adulting” classes for learners of all ages, reading programs, special events, and more. Never miss out—join today!

USC Township Library Hours

Monday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Tuesday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Friday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

The library will be closed: Monday, Sept. 4 for Labor Day

Outside book and video return available 24/7

Library hours are subject to change; please call or visit the library’s website for hours of operation.

412-835-5540

twpusc.org/library

Clean Streams Update

David Kutschbach, USC Superintendent of Projects

Clean water and abundant aquatic life can be compatible with a healthy lawn—the two are not necessarily mutually exclusive. A few common-sense applications can promote the best of both worlds.

A healthy lawn is an important component of a suburban landscape. Healthy lawns increase the value of a property, effectively filter storm water run-off, and trap sediment and other pollutants that could otherwise contaminate a stream.

We often get so used to routine activities that we rarely give them a second thought. Lawn care—applying fertilizer, mowing, and leaf clean-up—falls into that category. Lawn maintenance has the potential to contribute to water pollution, and a conscious awareness goes a long way toward protecting the environment.

Everyone likes the appearance of a well maintained and green lawn; however, fertilizer use can negatively affect water quality. Some simple tips to consider in fertilizer use are:

• Take a soil sample to learn the annual fertility needs of your lawn. The local Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension office can assist with a laboratory analysis of your soil. A soil analysis report will determine any soil deficiencies in nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

• Select a fertilizer based on the amount of nitrogen your lawn needs. Slow-release fertilizers are preferred.

• Fertilize only if needed and only when the grass is actively growing. Lime will improve vegetation health and soil porosity.

Mow your lawn to two to three inches in height. Maintaining taller grass ensures a deeper and more extensive root system. The benefits include an increase in nutrient uptake, the ability to absorb more moisture in a dry spell, and the suppression of weed growth.

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.

As beautiful as the vivid colors of autumn leaves can be, leaves can also become a nuisance. When leaves are swept onto the street, they will eventually land into storm sewer drains. Once in the storm sewers, grass clippings and leaf debris carrying fertilizers and pesticides flow into waterways. This pollution promotes the growth of algae blooms that degrades water quality, causing harm to water ecosystems and aquatic life.

The recommended safe and responsible method for leaf disposal is to collect leaves for the township-scheduled curbside leaf collection in the fall or the yard waste drop off the second Saturday of the month, April through December. Mulching and composting are also an option for residents.

What do the everyday activities of applying fertilizer, lawn mowing, and leaf disposal have in common? All can lead to impaired water quality. Nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorous, are key ingredients in fertilizer. When it rains, lawn fertilizer can wash into nearby storm drains and eventually to streams. To help prevent this:

• Do not use fertilizer to de-ice sidewalks.

• Do not apply fertilizer within 10–15 feet of a stream.

• Sweep any excess or spilled fertilizer off of a sidewalk, driveway, or street and dispose of it properly. Do not hose it away.

• Leaf litter and grass clippings are a major source of phosphorous. Do not discard on a stream bank or in the water. Either leave the grass clippings on the lawn and grind the leaves with your mower, or bag and dispose of properly.

It is the responsibility and privilege of township residents to protect our local streams and waterways. Small, thoughtful changes to everyday activities have the potential to promote great benefits. n

2023 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection

Holiday Collection Date

Labor Day

Thanksgiving

Thursday, Sept. 7 and Friday, Sept. 8

Wednesday, Nov. 22 and Friday, Nov. 24

2023 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: Oct. 21, 28; Nov. 4, 11,18; Dec. 2.

Wingfield Pines, Allegheny Land Trust

Lindsay Dill, Senior Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Allegheny Land Trust

For 30 years, ALT has been helping local people save local land. While we often write about Wingfield Pines in this newsletter, our work also reaches beyond the bounds of Upper St. Clair. As we continued our work at Wingfield Pines this summer, we have also been working to conserve land near you, and we have planned for more upcoming events and projects at Wingfield and beyond.

If you explored Wingfield Pines this summer, we hope you were able to meet our 2023 John Hamm Conservation Intern, Olivia Fulton. Olivia worked with ALT staff, partners, and volunteers to maintain and improve the land with critical stewardship tasks, restore native plant and wildlife habitat with effective fieldwork, and enhance the visitor experience through land management. We’re grateful for Olivia’s hard work and we wish her well in what will surely be successful future endeavors.

This year, we’ve continued our efforts in improving native habitat at Wingfield Pines by focusing on our identification and removal of invasive species. Thanks to our stewardship staff’s guidance, Olivia’s internship work, and many volunteer and partner efforts and connections, we’ve come a long way in this years-long project. We’ll soon be announcing additional habitat and visitor improvements at Wingfield, and we hope you’ll stay tuned by signing up for our monthly email newsletter or by visiting our website.

ALT has also been working to save more nearby local land that will contribute to the improved health and well-being of our region. ALT has 221 woodland acres under contract for permanent conservation in the rapidly developing, flood-vulnerable Robinson Run Watershed along the scenic corridor of the popular Panhandle Trail. Located in South Fayette and Collier, the acquisition of this strategically located, keystone land would create an ecological, recreational, and place-making greenway unlike any in the region by connecting Settler’s Cabin Park, Pittsburgh Botanical Garden, Collier Township Park, South Fayette’s Preservation Park, the Panhandle and Montour Trails, and other public and privately conserved lands.

ALT has these woodlands under exclusive contract to purchase and permanently protect them, contingent upon successfully raising the needed funds for closing by December 2023. A total of

$1,785,000 is needed to conserve the land, and ALT already has funding applications pending with state grantors, private foundations, and local corporations. The final crucial component is donations from local individuals as they help close the funding gap and serve as the local matching dollars required to unlock state grants. We are seeking $75,000 from the community to help save this land forever. Visit the project page below to learn more, follow the progress, and donate. n

ALT hopes you’ll support our work at Wingfield Pines and beyond as we continue our work of conserving, improving, and providing programming on lands across the region. If you’d like to stay up to date on current projects and upcoming events, we hope you’ll become a member and subscribe to our monthly email newsletter. Thank you and happy exploring!

• Monthly projects and events email newsletter sign-up: alleghenylandtrust. org/news-events/

• Panhandle Greenway project page: alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/

• Event calendar for details and registration: alleghenylandtrust.org/events/

Upcoming Nearby & Online Events

Aug. 14 | 6–8 p.m.

Beginner’s Mushroom ID Hike With WPMC @ Bethel Green Conservation Area

Aug. 16 | 5–5:45 p.m.

Webinar: Butterflies 101 @ Virtual

Sept. 13 | 5–5:45 p.m.

Webinar: all about bears @ Virtual

Sept. 27 | 5–5:45 p.m.

Webinar: Fall & Winter Gardening For Wildlife

@ Virtual

Hamm Intern Olivia Fulton

If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, call the Allegheny County Elections Department at 412-350-4500 or visit 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.

RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE

District Court 05-2-20

Office: 412-835-1661

Fax: 412-835-4060

The Judge Ron Arnoni Leadership-inAction Scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding student leaders in the region. Students demonstrating leadership qualities in their communities and schools were encouraged to apply for $1000 scholarships. These awards were made possible by the Leadership-Development and their LEAD Program’s title sponsor, Dollar Bank; major sponsor, the Pittsburgh Penguins; and community sponsor, Carol and Dr. Brian McDonough.

This year’s winners are:

• Lauren Vay—Elizabeth Forward

• Lauren Heh—Bethel Park

• Sydney Rozzo—Upper St. Clair

• Madison Benedict—Baldwin

By recognizing these students’ contributions, Judge Arnoni and his business partner, Brad Killmeyer, hope these student leaders will be inspired to continue positively impacting our communities in the years ahead.

Below are a few of this year’s winners’ many accomplishments and volunteer efforts that made a difference in the area:

• Members of the National Honors Society

• Captain of their sport teams

• Elected president and for executive positions for student clubs and organizations

Youthful Leadership in Action

“Congratulations to all of this year’s winners! We are proud of your accomplishments and are glad to recognize your leadership efforts. Thank you for making our region a better place!”

– Judge Ron Arnoni and

Brad

• Section leaders in band and drumline

Killmeyer

• Highly involved with numerous community organizations such as Miracle League, Best Buddies, Girl Scouts, church groups, military appreciation programs, Students Against Destructive Decisions, local libraries, cancer foundations, and more.

“I experience many difficult situations in my courtroom. Seeing how we have so many talented, passionate and caring students in our region is promising and encouraging for our future!” said Judge Arnoni. n

Learn more about the scholarships and numerous leadership programs Judge Arnoni and Brad Killmeyer have for students and schools at OurLeadFamily.com. Follow their organization Leadership Development on Instagram for leadership lessons and future contest and scholarships at OurLeadFamily.com.

Understanding and Preventing Electric Shock Drowning

Any definition of the word “accident” usually includes words like unintended, unexpected, and unavoidable. For Jay, Jean, and Abrielle DeAngelo, only one word matters: James.

On July 4, 2021, their son and brother, James, was swimming in the Monongahela River near an area marina. At one point, he went under water but never resurfaced. He was found by a friend, but was unresponsive. James was 23 years old.

Investigators eventually determined that James drowned after experiencing an intense electrical shock, known as electric shock drowning.

My family and I, like many western Pennsylvania families, enjoy our waterways for recreation. This includes boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. But until hearing of James DeAngelo’s untimely and horrible passing, I never heard of electric shock drowning. Such an accident can occur in any location where electricity is provided near water, and the majority of such drownings occur at public and private marinas and docks. Usually, the electricity originates from the wiring of the

dock or marina, or from boats that are connected to a marina’s or dock’s power supply.

The Electric Shock Drowning Prevention Association uses the example of stepping into a bathtub or swimming pool with a hair dryer. The shock causes skeletal muscular paralysis, rendering the victim unable to help themselves while immersed in water.

Making the situation more dangerous is there is no visible way to determine that water near a boat, dock, or marina is dangerous. Victims usually do not immediately feel electrical current when they enter the water around a boat, marina, or dock. Often, electricity enters the water when an electrical fault occurs aboard a boat. For example, the fault that places deadly current into the water may only occur when a light switch is turned on, or when a hot water heater, battery charger, air conditioning unit, or other electrical device cycles. Water can appear and feel “safe” and in a split second become energized with deadly electricity.

According to media reports, the friend that found James underwater also felt a shock but was not prevented from attempting rescue. Electric shock drownings have claimed as

many as 80 lives in the United States. However, they are preventable.

Swimmers are encouraged to avoid swimming near marinas, docks, and boatyards.

Boat owners should routinely inspect their vessels’ electrical systems to make certain they are in good working order. The vessels should also have isolation transformers or equipment leakage circuit interrupter protection.

Those who own private docks or operate marinas should be certain that ground-fault circuit interrupters exist on all shore power pedestals and on all marina wiring circuits. Posting signs to warn swimmers who may not be aware of the dangers of electric shock drowning is also a great idea.

Determined to bring some kind of positivity to a horrible tragedy, the DeAngelos have created the James DeAngelo Foundation, which raises money to bring more attention to electric shock drowning, as well as makes donations to local sports groups. For more information, visit jamesdeangelo.weebly.com. n

For additional informational on the dangers of electric shock drowning, visit electricshockdrowning.org.

In case you might have missed it, after the last constitutionally mandated redistricting, Upper St. Clair is now represented by two state representatives. I have the honor of representing what is essentially the northern part of the township, while my friend Representative Natalie Mihalek covers basically the southern half. Regardless of these lines, I am confident that we will work together to represent USC to the best of our abilities.

First, I want to make sure that you know how to reach me and my staff. Our district office is located right across the border in Mt. Lebanon at 650 Washington Road, Suite 102. We can be reached by phone at 412-343-3870 or online at RepDanMiller.com and you are welcome to contact us anytime about any state issue.

We most commonly provide assistance to people regarding PACE and PACENET forms, voter registration and absentee ballot applications, property tax/rent rebate program forms, senior bus passes, or dealing with PennDOT problems, and we work hard to help people

with any state agency or program questions.

In the state House, I currently serve as the House Majority Whip, which provides a greater opportunity for me to influence the legislative agenda. Personally, the majority of my legislative effort over the years has focused on disability and mental health issues, which can impact every family and all too often have been neglected in Harrisburg. My bills on this front are designed to decrease stigma and increase opportunity, while making sure that promises are kept in relation to assisting individuals and families with such needs.

I love to host community events and discussions, and we try to do so in every part of the district as well as virtually. Our largest, and in many ways my favorite event, is our annual Disability & Mental Health Summit, which has become the largest collection of such resources in western Pennsylvania. We generally offer many hours of free programming rotating on a variety of topics, and we have always been proud that this event is bipartisan and bicameral.

Other topics for our community discussions include challenges like Alzheimer’s, regional economic development, providing senior resources, and most recently we have been bringing experts together from Carnegie Mellon and other universities to talk about how artificial intelligence will impact our jobs, economy, and privacy. Information on these and future events can be found at RepDanMiller.com.

I want to thank TODAY for the opportunity to introduce myself to you. Serving our shared community has been the honor of a lifetime, and I have enjoyed doing so as a volunteer firefighter in Mt. Lebanon, a local commissioner, and now as state representative. Thank you for this privilege and I hope that you will reach out to my office any time.

Best,

Dan Miller

State Rep. Dan Miller represents the 42nd Legislative District which includes Baldwin, Mt. Lebanon, Castle Shannon, Dormont, and parts of Upper St. Clair.

State Representative Dan Miller Office of the House Democratic Majority Whip

Hello Upper St. Clair!

Routine Reboot

Haley Roberts, Administrative Coordinator, Extended Day Services

Transitioning back into school year routines after a long summer break can be challenging for kids. Here are some ideas to help reintroduce routines and make the transition smoother:

1. Gradual schedule adjustment. Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times gradually, about a week or two before school starts. Incrementally shift bedtime and wake-up time closer to the desired school schedule to help kids readjust their sleep patterns.

2. Establish a morning routine. Create a morning routine checklist that includes tasks like getting dressed, brushing teeth, having breakfast, and packing their school bag. Post the checklist where your kids can easily see it to encourage independence and help them establish a consistent routine.

3. Set up a homework station. Create a dedicated area in your home for homework and studying. Organize school supplies, such as pens, pencils, notebooks, and a quiet workspace with good lighting. This designated space will help

your children focus on their schoolwork and establish a homework routine.

4. Practice time management. Help your kids develop time management skills by using visual aids like a daily or weekly planner. Teach them to break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and allocate time for homework, chores, and extracurricular activities. Encourage them to check off completed tasks for a sense of accomplishment.

5. Encourage after-school activities. Engaging in after-school activities helps establish a routine and provides a healthy balance between academics and hobbies. Discuss extracurricular options with your children, such as sports, music, lessons, art classes, or scouting. Encourage them to choose activities they enjoy and help them manage their schedules accordingly.

6. Celebrate achievements. Recognize and celebrate your children’s accomplishments, both big and small. Whether it’s completing homework independently or achieving good

grades, acknowledge their efforts and provide positive reinforcement. This will motivate them to stay focused and committed to their routines.

It takes time for kids to readjust to the school year routines, so be patient and supportive during this transition. With consistency, encouragement, and a structured environment, your child will adapt to the new routine and thrive in the upcoming school year! n

See ad for Extended Day Services on page 74.

James M. Bennett, a Man Who Loved His Community and Never Missed a Beat!

This past April, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair held a 30th anniversary celebration at St. Clair Country Club. The evening was one of reminiscing and reflecting on past projects and events, and honoring two community visionaries who gave freely of their time and talents to create opportunities that brought unity to our community! After refreshments and table games, former Foundation trustee Angela Petersen introduced a very special gentleman. She commented that since 2002 something has been missing at USC football games—seeing Jim Bennett stride down the sidelines in his bright red blazer! Upper St. Clair’s very own real-life Music Man retired in 2003, after 33 years with the district as high school band director. As fine and performing arts curriculum leader and arts focus chair for the Foundation, Jim found ways to connect the school and community with arts events ranging from concerts by Marvin Hamlisch, Eddie Palmieri, Spyro Gyra, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, to the John Houseman Theatre Company, and Thai dancers. He was also the co-founder and co-conductor of the Community Band South, established in 1987. Angela commented that Jim’s successes were many, but his greatest accomplishments cannot be named or counted. “They are the multitudes of students he nurtured with his gift of music...they grew up and their children became Jim’s students...and all of them became and remain Jim’s friends.” After his retirement, Jim continued to foster the arts as theater manager at the high school. Angela said that Jim was unable to attend the gala as he was not feeling well...but, “everything will be okay!” Foundation trustee Gordon Mathews then recognized Jim for his vision for the arts and his continuous efforts in community outreach, awarding him a medal for this special honor. The day after the gala, Jim was admitted to the hospital. Paul Fox, his longtime colleague and friend, stopped at Jim’s house to deliver the medal and a video of Angela’s speech. When his wife, Terry, took them to Jim, she said the award made his day! He wore it proudly, making a point to show it to every nurse, aide, and doctor who entered his room.Sadly, Jim’s health did not rebound, and he passed away on June 9, 2023. James M. Bennett, a Music Man, a community leader, a man with a mission, was the man whose love of the arts was equally balanced with his love for his community. Jim will march on in the memory of all who knew him, and his legacy to the community-at-large will be his unyielding efforts to nurture an artistic culture in Upper St. Clair, the special place he called home.

Linda Serene, CFUSC Visionary Leadership Awardee

In 1993, Linda Serene saw a need, convened a group of caring community members, and plotted a course to create what we now know as the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. With much assistance from Thomas Harshman, James Bennett, John Small, and all of her “honey and worker bees,” Linda’s team produced a momentum that has brought enrichment to Upper St. Clair for three decades. It has reached out to the entire community with support for ideas that would benefit all residents of the Township. It was a special treat to see Linda meet friends from the inaugural board of trustees at the 30th anniversary celebration. During the awards ceremony, Charlotte McDaniels, secretary of the first board, shared a tribute to Linda with a poem she created for this special event. Linda’s insight into where things were and where they needed to go came from her experience as a member of the Upper St. Clair School Board. As the 1990s rolled in, she was envisioning high school renovation, how future students could benefit from the surge of developing technologies, ongoing health and wellness initiatives, how the arts could impact learning, and how to bring great harmony to the community-at-large. The seeds that Linda planted resulted in more than $1,000,000 raised for projects not necessarily covered by tax dollars during the last 30 years. Grants awarded have touched a wide variety of people and groups, including the school district, Casey’s Clubhouse, Veterans Park, the public library, and through the formation of partnerships to provide goods and services for hundreds of ideas. With focus on Arts, Health and Wellness, STEM, Entertainment and Leisure, and Education and Lifelong Learning, the Foundation has enhanced life for residents and promoted a greater cultural awareness throughout the community. May the seeds of Linda’s wisdom grow for many more decades, bringing continued unity to our community. Thank you to Linda and to all who have joined her team for 30 years.

Charlotte McDaniels Pays Tribute to Linda Serene

Linda Serene:

We all know a native of Western Penn named Linda. Typically, entirely too busy for any bendar.

She heard of a previous organizational try And not being idea or community shy, Gave it her best shot Failure, it was not!

She put together the original Board, It took all the time she could possibly afford.

What emerged was the Community Foundation Hitting all the buttons for an Upper St. Clair Evolution. She organized her various resident types of bees, Including honey (as in money) bees,

Plus several worker and connection bees, From numerous energetic and local hes and shes.

The testimony to her success and drive, Is that multiple bees are continiung in their hive!

It’s been an excellent and creative ride, Not possible without the Board Team at her side.

Scholarships, grants, donations and community support Continue in force, or so they report.

So, let’s salute and recognize A go-getter, a doer, a real prize

The Community Fooundation of Upper St. Clair, Along with its foundational Foundation Chair!

For all she has accomplished, as we, tonight, have seen, Let’s hear it for Linda Serene!

by Charlotte McDaniel, 1993 Secretary of the Foundation Honoring Linda Serene at 30th Anniversary on

15 April 2023

Thirtieth Anniversary Gala

Patrick T. Christy, MD

Elizabeth Pronesti, MD

Jourdan E. Schmitz, MD

Paul M. Zubritzky, MD

Vanessa Sidick, CRNP

Tera S. Conway, MD

Trista M. McMahon, CRNP

A Birthing Experience That Is Welcoming & Comforting on Every Level

Learning you’re pregnant is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when you begin to think about the many important decisions you’ll need to make before baby arrives. If you’re expecting, some of the first decisions to consider are choosing an OB/GYN provider and deciding where you want to give birth.

Every year, more than 1500 expecting parents choose St. Clair Health for its leading OB/GYN providers and the family-centered environment at St. Clair Hospital’s Family Birth Center. The dedicated team at the Family Birth Center focuses on creating a comfortable, caring, and safe environment for all members of the family. It’s what makes the birth experience at St. Clair Health so unique.

“We’re able to provide a very personalized experience for patients and their families in a more calming environment, all while providing an exceptional level of medical care,” says Tera S. Conway, MD, who practices with St. Clair Medical Group. The Family Birth Center includes private labor and delivery rooms designed to provide exceptional warmth, comfort, and safety from labor through recovery. Some highlights include:

• A rocking chair, oversized bathrooms, and soft lighting to make you feel like you’re at home

• State-of-the-art technology such as fetal monitoring systems that allow staff to keep a close eye on baby and equipment that enables mothers to walk freely during labor

• Sleeper sofa to accommodate birthing partners from labor through recovery

• Enough space to welcome guests following delivery

Of course, mom’s primary concern is that she and her baby will be well cared for—and St. Clair’s commitment to delivering the very best labor and delivery care ensures peace of mind on that front. “Healthy baby, healthy mom—that’s our mantra. And we cultivate the process at every step to ensure that every patient’s labor and delivery progresses safely,” explains Patrick T. Christy, MD, who also practices with St. Clair Medical Group.

Adds Dr. Conway, “St. Clair is really a great place to have your baby because our whole team is dedicated to your delivery.” The team includes a single labor and delivery nurse who is assigned upon admission to ensure they can remain intimately involved before, during, and after delivery. A board-certified pediatric hospitalist is on-call 24/7 to support these nurses who are specially trained in labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

Additionally, a certified lactation counselor from St. Clair’s onsite Lactation Center is available to help new moms learn the ins and outs of breastfeeding. Before delivery and after your hospital stay, the Center remains available for consultations, complementary bra fittings, and other breastfeeding supplies.

Even more, a perinatal social worker will visit with new moms to make sure they are prepared for discharge and have everything they need at home. From setting up transportation or childcare, to ensuring any clinical consults are conducted after delivery, patients can think of this extra set of helping hands as a liaison who assists with the transition from St. Clair to home.

Dr. Christy emphasizes, “Each patient has their own goals and dreams for their family—and helping them achieve that is very rewarding for all of us.” A commitment to that level of personal care, in a welcoming environment that provides the personal attention and respect you deserve, is a hallmark of St. Clair—one that is shared by everyone at the Family Birth Center. n

If you’re expecting, the Family Birth Center offers regular tours, which include breakfast and are free of charge. To learn more or register for an upcoming tour, visit stclair.org/womenandchildren or call 412-942-5877.

Dr. Patrick Christy Dr. Tera Conway

Horses with Hope at Gilfillan Farm

In addition to the volunteer program with the miniature horses, three weeks of annual all-abilities summer camp were enjoyed in July, therapeutic riding services will continue through October, and a new Nights of Hope program is underway this season. This new, ground-based, equine-assisted learning program was designed to support youth with stress, anxiety, or depression. Under the guidance of equine specialists, families are given the opportunity to interact with horses, supporting mindfulness and sensory integration, while releasing negative feelings that many individuals hold on to.

These and future Horses with Hope programs are possible with the support of generous grants, business sponsorships, personal donations, and fundraising. Save the date and stay tuned for more information on upcoming Horses with Hope fundraising events.

• Horses With Hope is having a fundraising night at PNC Park on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 6:35 p.m. as the Pirates take on the Nationals. Great seats for a great cause!

• On Sunday, Nov. 12, get ready for raffles, bowling, and pizza at the annual Horses with Hope bowling fundraiser at the Meadows Lanes.

How Do Roads Get Their Names?

• The Fourth Annual Belmont Jewel event on June 10 at St. Clair Country Club, sponsored by Century 3 Chevrolet, Arc Human Services, Washington Health System—Children’s Therapy Center, Williams, Louis Anthony Jewelers, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Canon Hill Veterinary Clinic, was a fun, festive evening for all in attendance. Save the date for next year’s Belmont Jewel on Saturday, June 8, 2024!

Connect with your community by making a difference in the lives of others and become a Horses with Hope volunteer! Opportunities are available in the areas of community activities, ground maintenance, fundraising, and program session support. Year-round fundraising opportunities are available for individuals and schools. Students and school clubs involved in art departments or service projects can support Horses with Hope with fundraising efforts or create artwork for use as a raffle item at a fundraising event. n

At least three roads in Upper St. Clair are named for their connection to the Fife family, a large and prominent family that has made its mark on local maps for well over two centuries. A newspaper article describing the 1890 Fife family reunion claimed that the descendants of the earliest Fife settlers, John Fife, Senior, and his brother William numbered at least 1800.

Cremona Drive was named after a tract of land purchased by early Upper St. Clair settler, John Fife, Senior. He applied for and received a land patent in 1786 and named his new property Cremona.

A few years later in 1789, John Fife applied for a patent for an additional tract of land he called Lambeth, leading to the present-day namesake, Lambeth Drive.

Fife Drive is most closely associated with James and Morgan Fife. In 1870, the James and Morgan Fife house was constructed as a wedding gift for the couple on what would become Fife Drive. Their new house was located close to relatives, as multiple houses along Old Washington Road were Fife residences around this time.

With such a long-established lineage, the Fife family has made its mark on Upper St. Clair maps for more than two-hundred years. n

Article courtesy of Carolyn Jones Friedrich, historian, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.

Original 1789 patent for Lambeth from the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.

Upper St. Clair Township from the Warrantee Atlas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, 1914 available on ULS Digital Collections digital.library.pitt.edu/collection/ warrantee-atlas-allegheny-county-pennsylvania

For more information on Horses with Hope programs, events, and volunteer opportunities, visit horseswithhope.org.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Playing an Instrument

It’s time to dust off that old instrument you have in your attic and warm up your “chops”…or learn something new! Everyone knows it, and countless research shows it: there are numerous benefits of making music for students and adults of all ages.

“The prevailing societal wisdom seems to be that we can’t learn to play an instrument (or speak a language or learn to paint) if we’re beyond elementary school age. That’s simply not true; we have the capacity to learn at any age. It might take a little longer to acquire skill, but that’s all. It’s worth investing the time it takes to make the music you’ve always wanted to…” says Kathy Kucsan, Ph.D., co-founder and education director of the Center for Musical Arts.

At Upper St. Clair High School, there are not one, but two gold mines right in our backyard for amateur music-making. Late great bandmasters James Bennett (Upper St. Clair) and Dean Streator (Bethel Park) co-founded the Community Band South. Community Band South (CBS) rehearses on Monday nights at the high school, so adult players have easy access to an active adults-only ensemble that regularly performs in the western Pennsylvania area. And music-lovers of all ages are welcome to drop-in to any Saturday morning practice of the South Hills Junior Orchestra (SHJO), now celebrating its 41st year with players of

Upper St. Clair Different Strokes Tennis League

The USC Different Strokes Tennis League is a nonprofit resident group run by a committee of volunteers with the assistance of the USC Recreation Department. Our purpose is to organize sessions of tennis for Upper St. Clair residents of all abilities to play with a variety of partners and opponents of similar level. There are four sign-up sessions per year for different days/times of the week for different game levels:

• A spring outdoor session until mid-July (USC season permit required).

• A summer outdoor session until the bubbles go up in October (USC season permit required).

• A 14-week fall indoor session from October through midJanuary (USC court fees).

• A 14-week winter indoor session from mid-January through mid-April (USC court fees).

All sessions include weekday mornings and evenings for women’s doubles, as well as weekday evenings and weekend day times for men’s doubles. Mixed doubles or men’s and women’s singles games can also be set up if there is enough demand.

Cost of joining our league is $10 for individuals and $16 per couple. If interested, contact Gina Braun at 412-221-5717 or Gibra5@aol.com. Join anytime! n

a wide range of achievement levels. SHJO was recently featured at events for USC Community Day, USC United Senior Citizens, and Friendship Village.

Both ensembles are nonprofit and non-competitive, and auditions are not required. The welcome mat is out for you to come to a couple rehearsals and give CBS and SHJO a try! The conductor of Community Band South is Max Gonano, formerly the Director of the California University of Pennsylvania marching, concert, and jazz bands. Retired schoolteachers Donna Stark Fox (Peters Township) and Paul Fox (Upper St. Clair) direct the SHJO which has a 50-50 balance of school-age band/string students and posthigh school amateur musicians, including several who, as adults, learned a new instrument to play in the ensemble. n

For both CBS and SHJO, there are openings in all instrumental sections. Thanks to donations, there is even the possibility to borrow a flute or clarinet to join SHJO. The easiest way to get more information is to go to their respective practices (both are held in the USCHS Band Room) and websites: Community Band South (cbs.pghfree.net/)

Mondays, 7:30–9 p.m.

South Hills Junior Orchestra (shjo.org)

Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Profiles

This past April, Upper St. Clair resident Rob Renzi was named to the leadership team of HDG Architects. Rob has been with HDG for more than 12 years and has been integral to almost every project on which the firm has worked.

HDG Architects, established in 1992 as the Hayes Design Group— Architects, is a full-service architectural firm offering pre-design services through construction administration services for a wide variety of project types. Headquartered in Robinson Township, HDG focuses on developing successful relationships with clients who want quality architecture and exceptional service.

For more information, visit HDGarchitects-pgh.com.

Upper St. Clair’s Frances Joyce published her third book this spring. “Everything in Between” explores guilt, grief, loss, and our ability to survive and move forward. Francis Cleetus (franciscleetus.com), another Upper St. Clair resident, designed the book jacket.

Her first book, “Dancing in the Rain: Surviving Breast Cancer and Learning how to Embrace Life,” follows Frances and four other women through diagnosis, treatment, and finally, no evidence of disease. Her second book, “His Life’s Work,” is an action-thriller about a serial killer with Alzheimer’s disease. Her books are available on amazon.com.

Frances also produces the monthly online publication, This Awful Awesome Life (thisawfulawesomelife.com).

Visit Frances Joyce’s website at francesjoyce.com.

Connections Are Key

Kaitlyn Campbell, LCSW, Clinical Director, Outreach Teen & Family Services

As the clinical director at Outreach, I am the first point of contact when an individual reaches out for support. Since stepping into this role, I have witnessed a significant increase in mental health concerns for children and adolescents in our communities. I am also learning that most families are connecting to mental health resources for the first time. While reaching out for help can feel intimidating, we want to decrease this fear by educating our communities on what to expect when connecting with mental health support.

If anyone in your family is experiencing a decline in their mental health, Outreach can help. We offer a variety of services for children and young adults ages 5–21, along with their parents and families, including individual, group, family, and parenting sessions.

Once you initiate our services, I will contact you for more information related to current needs, past mental health treatment, and risk factors. Please keep in mind, Outreach is a low level of care outpatient center, which means we do not offer crisis support. If you or your child is experiencing active suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harm, I will connect you to appropriate crisis services to ensure safety; otherwise, I will share information about our current availability. And if Outreach doesn’t fit your

needs, I will provide you with other community resources that would be a better fit.

There are a few other things I encourage you to consider before connecting with us. First, what are the goals for your family that you want to achieve? This will help to identify the best fit for services during the intake process. Next, if you are planning to use insurance, connect with them first to ensure a provider is accepted under your plan. At Outreach, we believe in supporting our local communities and never allow payment to be an obstacle for care, but if insurance is important to you, it is helpful to be proactive. Finally, if you are calling for your child, having conversations with them beforehand can aid in identifying the current needs from their perspective.

The most difficult part of getting help is taking that first step to reach out. Outreach is here for all our communities and it’s our goal to make a positive impact on the mental health of our neighborhoods. Know you can reach out, even if you are not sure about beginning services. We are here to help. n

To initiate service at Outreach, visit outreachteen.org and complete the online inquiry form for individual or group services by clicking the Contact tab or call the main office at 412-561-5405.

Rob Renzi

Frances Joyce Francis Cleetus

Boyce Girl Scouts Earn Bronze Award

Boyce Middle School Girl Scout Troop 40921 recently earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award—the highest honor a Girl Scout Junior can achieve.

Troop 40921 includes Sydney Hokanson, Lydia Jack, Jessica Lesogor, Mileidi Miles, Lillian Paske, Rowan Pollock, Brooklyn Pope, Addie Smirniw, Avery Stupar, and Elsie Yuyi. The troop is led by troop leaders Leslie Pope and Leslie Smirniw.

Earning the Girl Scout Bronze Award involves completing a Girl Scout Journey, which includes learning more about an issue and committing a minimum of 20 hours working as a team to make a difference in the community.

Troop 40921 chose to learn about Project Linus, an organization that provides handmade blankets to children who are seriously ill, traumatized or otherwise in need. Volunteers—known as blanketeers—provide new handmade blankets.

Members of Troop 40921 planned activities for the event, researched materials and items needed, and learned how to create and follow a budget for the event. The blanket-making event was held on March 30, and in May, Troop 40921 donated 60 blankets to Project Linus. The troop also asked participants to bring donations for local pet adoption organizations. n

Cookies for Cancer Patients

This past spring, cancer patients receiving treatment at St. Clair Health Cancer Center affiliated with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center got a special treat from the Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts of Troop 60187. The USC students packed up nearly 150 boxes of Girl Scout cookies and delivered them to Dr. Vince Reyes, assistant medical director for UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Medical Oncology Network and chief of Hematology and Medical Oncology at St. Clair Health.

One of three troop leaders, Jeanette Benedetto is a patient of Dr. Reyes, and her troop selected the Cancer Center for their Troop Gift of Caring cookie donation. Benedetto was diagnosed with a rare intestinal cancer a year ago, and following surgery and treatment, she is now cancer-free. In her honor, the troop this year unanimously selected the Cancer Center for their Gift of Caring donation.

Patients were invited to take a box home following their treatment, thanks to this thoughtful and caring group of young girls. n

Members of Troop 40921

Members of Troop 60187 with Dr. Vince Reyes

Happenings!

50th Reunion for the USC Class of 1974

There have been a myriad of changes over the last 50 years, and it’s time to reconnect, to reminisce, and celebrate together! Our main event will be at St. Clair Country Club on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, from 6–11p.m.

More information will be available in the coming months, so save the dates—Sept. 27–29, 2024.

Pizzazz Boutique Shopping Benefit

The Garden Club of Allegheny County (GCAC) will present its 27th annual Pizzazz boutique shopping benefit Oct. 18–20, 2023, at the Fox Chapel Golf Club, 426 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh. For more information and tickets, visit: gcacpgh.org/pizzazz.

Joy of Christmas Craft Show

The Laboure Ladies Guild will hold its annual “Joy of Christmas” Craft show on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, from 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m., at St. Louise de Marillac School and LeGras Parish Center, 320 McMurray Road, Upper St. Clair. There will be 115 artists and craftsmen, Chinese auction, and refreshments. The two-dollar admission includes a ticket for the auction. Due to order of the USC fire marshal, strollers are not permitted.

Chicken Barbeque

Bethel Park High School

Saturday, Oct. 28

11 a.m.–7 p.m. (drive-thru only)

Each year, the USC-BP Rotary Breakfast club hosts an annual Chicken BBQ fundraising event to help support dozens of local charities. For $15 a dinner, enjoy a fresh grilled ½ chicken, mouthwatering baked beans, zesty coleslaw, plus cookies for dessert.

Advanced purchase is required by calling 412-606-0518 or visiting rb.gy/eeknh.

Keynotes Luncheon Fashion Show

On Saturday, Sept. 16, the annual luncheon fashion show supporting Keynotes of South Hills’ Music Scholarships, will be held at South Hills Country Club. Guests will enjoy a delicious lunch, lovely fashions from J.Jill, a raffle, a lottery tree, 50/50, music student performances, and more. Luncheon tickets are $50. For more information regarding tickets, sponsorships, advertising, or a raffle donation, contact Lynn Hagan 412-491-7250.

Founded In 1969, Keynotes continues to fulfill its mission of sustaining a music scholarship fund. Granting $16,000 per year, to date Keynotes has awarded over $460,000 to music students of exceptional talent. Keynotes’ annual luncheon is one of the many fundraisers supporting the scholarship fund.

For more information, visit Keynotessouthhills.com or Facebook.com/keynotesofsouthhills.

Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace 2023

Looking for a convenient way to refresh your home furnishings or get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping? Shop local!

The Upper St. Clair League for the Arts invites you to this year’s Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace. First time shoppers to this six-day sale will be amazed at the quantity of unique, one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts and fine art. Repeat customers, who have

made this local tradition a success for nearly 50 years, will return this year for the wide variety of high-quality items, all locally made.

Held in the MAC on McLaughlin Run Road, the sale features a large gallery room showcasing wall art, including photography, prints, and paintings in a variety of mediums and styles.

A second, even larger room is transformed

into an artisan boutique, filled with beautiful examples of local craftsmanship, including glass art, pottery, woodcraft, fiber art, papercraft, and much more.

Customers can choose from locally made décor for Thanksgiving and Christmas, tree ornaments, centerpieces, hand-beaded charcuterie sets, felted toys, greeting cards, crocheted animals, wooden walking sticks, as well handcrafted jewelry, hats, scarves, purses, and other fashion accessories.

The 2023 Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace opens at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 and closes Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.

In addition to providing a showcase opportunity for local artisans, the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts provides college scholarships for Upper St. Clair residents majoring in art-related fields. n

For shop hours and other details, visit on Facebook: Upper St. Clair League for the Arts.

Spring Break in Canada

Some head south, but USC’s Beitler, Krugh, and Hull families decided to take a trip to Whistler, British Columbia for their spring break. The group enjoyed the twin mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb and rode the Peak 2 Peak Gondola that joined the two mountains. The families skied for five days, and all agreed that there was so much terrain to ski that they could have skied many more days had they stayed longer. Lots of meals were enjoyed together in Whistler Village, along with a visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn about two First Nations. n

A Trip to Virginia

TODAY was seen at Yorktown Battlefield, part of the Colonial National Historic Park in Virginia. At Yorktown in the fall of 1781, General George Washington, with allied American and French forces, besieged General Charles Lord Cornwallis’s British army. On October 19, Cornwallis surrendered, effectively ending the war and ensuring independence. 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 stay-at-home project.

• Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary.

• Email information to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

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

The Beitler and Krugh families pose with the spring issue of TODAY Magazine, bringing a little bit of USC to Canada.

(l/r) Joey Krugh, Cami Hull, Ethan Hull, Stephanie Hull, Blaise Hull, John Krugh, Sonia Krugh, Reed Krugh, Matt Beiter, Josh Beitler, Rich Beitler, and Sarah Beitler in beautiful Whistler, B.C.

TODAY spent time this summer on Hilton Head Island, S.C. Were you one of the many USC residents we saw there? Wherever your travels took you this year, we hope it was a time to relax and recharge!

Henry Winkler

Actor, Producer, Director, Best-Selling Author

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Lynsey Addario

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Photojournalist

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Ruth Reichl

James Beard Award-Winning Writer, Culinary Icon

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Kobie Boykins

NASA Lead Principal Engineer

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Douglas Brinkley

American Historian, Best-Selling Author, CNN Presidential Historian

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Clair High School Theater

Doors of Upper St. Clair— Lacrosse Edition

USC Boys’ Lacrosse was happy to share photos of the door signs celebrating their team with TODAY!

We encourage you to send a photo of your favorite doors in Upper St. Clair—whether it’s your student-athlete’s door sign or a neighbor’s welcoming entry. n

To be included in TODAY’s Doors of USC feature, email your original, high-resolution digital photo of at least 300 dpi, along with a brief description in the body of the email, to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “USC Doors” in the subject line.

Lane

Kathi Kernan John Geisler

Elaine Krelis

Julie Leslie

Rachel Mazzie

Brad Templeton

Mary Ann Wellener

Rachel Richard Dora Rudick

Amanda Nasman

Carol McCarthy Darla Stevick

Faith Williard Cathy White York

Milo Hindman Manager

Loya

Mahla

Lorenzi Sala Gabe Paulick Mike Podolinsky

coldwellbankerhomes.com

Pikras