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3
IT’S TIME WE REDEFINED H O N O R S T U D E N T. Today’s world demands a definition that encompasses more than academic success. It requires a “transcript” that demonstrates the ability to do the right thing as well as the smart thing. A high grade point average alone will not guarantee a successful career or a purposeful life. This is the very reason why California University of Pennsylvania has, for more than 150 years, dedicated itself to preparing students for both fulfilling careers and meaningful lives. We do more than pay lip service to our core values of integrity, civility and responsibility. We integrate them into the classroom, campus activities and everyday student life. These values are fostered by faculty who devote time and personal attention to help motivate, inspire and bring out the best in every man and woman who studies here. So our students graduate with more than academic kudos and a diploma to show for their efforts. They graduate with a different degree of honor. For livelihood. And for life. That is our mission and our difference. Building Character. Building Careers.
Spring 2009
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Volume 15
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Issue 1
Features and Around the Township 14 A Man Named St. Clair
History buff Dick Phillips explores Arthur St. Clair’s life.
Retired “voice of the Pirates” shares his story.
An 1868 landmark, the Gilfillan barn invites many.
Wayne Herrod interviews retired School District AD Ted Petersen.
With boys’ lacrosse now a WPIAL/PIAA sport, Township participation is on the rise.
Twenty-three young USC women are honored for volunteerism.
pleseed Johnny Ap
25
Legendary
46
d sc The art an
72
Fruits of th
74
A special b
16 Lanny Frattare—No Doubt About Him! 18 Barn Raising
20 A Man for All Seasons
73 Lacrosse Action in USC 76 Medallion Ball
School District
30 Engineering Students Take on a Challenging Project
Advanced engineering course offers a broad academic discipline for USC students.
The Thai-USC Student Cultural Exchange program has one family hooked!
Special cards raise money for special trips.
Delicious and popular, a family’s crew pie connection is now closer to home.
USC’s six schools check in to let us know “what’s going on.”
32 Ties with Thailand
35 Special Cards at Fort Couch 39 A Tale of Crew Pies 40 Pawprints
Township
54 2009 Budget Highlights
Where does the money come from and where does it go?
59 Standards for Property Maintenance
USC has ordinances to guide residents toward proper care of private property.
USC Township Library invests in its residents. Figure out your ROI.
Members of USCVFD serve our community and our country.
Tri-Community South EMS reflects on its services for 2008.
62 Our Library, Your Return
eir labor
67 Service Beyond Upper St. Clair
70 Tri-Community South–a Year in Review
Guides
26 Dining 42 Pinebridge Commons 44 Home Improvement
Cover
modeling
ience of re
12 The cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY features young dancers from The Thomas Studio of
ond
Performing Arts looking up at Emily Kikta, who until fall 2008 was an Upper St. Clair High School student. Read pages 12 and 13 about Emily’s journey to becoming a scholarship student at The School of American Ballet in New York City, and how her how her training at The Thomas Studio led her there. Cover photography courtesy of dgarson.com.
ng guests
invites you
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Celebrates 15 Years! UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here.
Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Andrew McCreery, Finance Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Julie Sweet, Advertising Associate Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Dave Boehmer, Keeley Carson (YWG), Cathy Davin, Denise Galloway, Dr. Michael Ghilani, Dianna Handen, Wayne Herrod, Kathleen Himler, Jennifer Lydon, Regis McQuaide, Gail McTiernan, Patrick Nicholson, Fred Peskorski, Dick Phillips, Glenn Prokopovitch, Pat Ridge, Mike Russell, Rafael Sciullo, Carol Seibert, Christina Landfried-Simmons, Mary Lynne Spazok, Terri Sota, and Jessica Stombaugh. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for this community magazine. The 57th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc. 1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268 6
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
The 57th 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.
School Board Directors
Township Board of Commissioners
Amy L. Billerbeck, President Harry F. Kunselman, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Carol B. Coliane Frank J. Kerber Angela B. Petersen Louis A. Piconi Rebecca A. Stern
Ched Mertz, President, Ward 4 Karen M. McElhinny, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Kenneth L. Brown, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Russell R. Del Re, Ward 5 Glenn R. Dandoy, At Large
William M. Sulkowski 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 magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.
The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Summer 2009 issue and will be published in May 2009. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed to the left. Add $10 to cover international mailings.
Deadline for articles and advertising for the Summer 2009 issue has passed. Deadline for articles and advertising for the Fall 2009 issue is June 11, 2009. Article Information
Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681
Advertising Information
Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592
Website www.twpusc.org/magazine Spring 2009
Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
7
1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Matthew R. Serakowski
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole
Welcome residents and businesses to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s 57th issue, the spring 2009 edition. Doesn’t the word “spring” sound nice after our long northeastern winter? Spring conjures up wonderful thoughts of flowers blooming, grass greening, and gleeful noises of neighboring children shunning the indoors for Mr. Sunshine. These notions make us want to share cheerful news with you. We are delighted to introduce this spring issue and to reacquaint you with our mission statement (see below). For the past 15 years, the Township and the School District together have decisively committed to USC residents by continuing to offer this joint publication as a valued form of communication. Over the past few years, a number of print magazines, both local and national, have been shuttered, due to hard economic times and the rise of the Internet. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY survives in this atmosphere because of our attractive niche in the marketplace. Our community remains strong because of the continued efforts of the School District and the Township to provide top notch services to its citizens, keeping residents here and happy—giving us lots of great things to report! This publication’s niche is a result of those efforts, and we expect it to remain a premiere magazine of the South Hills for a long time to come. The financial commitment from our advertisers and the dedication and commitment from many community volunteers allow us to share information in this fashion, without tax dollar appropriations. We appreciate them! When you have the chance to do so, please visit a business that supports our publication. (See Advertiser Index on page 84.) So, put a spring in your step and spruce up your surroundings for the upcoming season. (For some great ideas, see the Home Improvement Guide beginning on page 44.) Share your thoughts with us regarding UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY and our commitment to keeping you informed. We are happy to be celebrating spring, and we are pleased to be celebrating a milestone of our community magazine—serving USC residents for 15 years! Don’t forget, we’re also on the web at www.usctwp.org/magazine. Mission Statement
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township and School District
of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org
of
15 Years Publication
Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
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Spring 2009
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair “Creating a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” The USC residents who serve
Community Foundation board members, left to right, seated: Dick Patton (treasurer), Celeste Acinapura (executive director), Becky Stern (board vice chair); standing: Bill Andrews, Lynn Dempsey, Shellie Yeung, George Pitcairn, Vicki McKenna, Pierette VanRyzin, Greg Harbaugh, Jim Bennett, Angela Petersen, Sandy Boring; missing from photo: Paul Fox, Dina Fulmer (board chair), Deepa Godbole (secretary), Mike Grzesiak, Janet Mosesso, Linda Serene (director of donor relations), Barbara Williams (Education and Lifelong Learning Committee chair)
as Trustees of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair are volunteers who donate their time and efforts to raise and distribute funds to meet the mission of “creating a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” In order to carry out this mission, the Foundation needs your financial support. The Foundation is independent of the Upper St. Clair Township and Upper St. Clair School District, and is thus positioned to support activities and projects that are not provided for through taxation. The Foundation board meets at Friendship Village at 7:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of February, March, May, September, October, and November. Meetings are open to interested residents. n
Concert Piano Becomes a Reality
In 2004, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair set a goal to provide a Steinway D Concert Grand piano, the largest piano made, for the USC High School Theatre for all to enjoy. Through the support of many donors and a grant from Rep. John Maher, that goal has been realized. A piano celebration was held on November 22, 2008, at which time accomplished piano students performed a recital and the piano was officially presented to the School District. n Presenting the piano to the Upper St. Clair School District, left to right, are Celeste Acinapura, CFUSC Executive Director; Dr. Patrick O’Toole, USCSD Superintendent; Paul Fox, CFUSC Board Vice Chair and USCHS Fine Arts Curriculum Leader; and Jim Bennett, CFUSC Trustee and Fine and Performing Arts Chair.
USC Reusable Grocery Shopping Bag 15"x20"x5"
The bag, created by USC artist Ellen Leimkuehler, is of sturdy canvas and has pen and ink drawings of USC scenes and USCHS. For $5 each, order yours today! Contact Deepa Godbole at 412-835-1609. n
Flavours Cookbook
In addition to winning the Mid-Atlantic regional competition for the McElhenney Tabasco Community Cookbook Award, Flavours, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair cookbook, also became internationally known. Thanks to a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article about Flavours and the Internet, editorial comment reached Canada, England, Sweden, Germany, New Zealand, and India. A few copies of the book remain and can be purchased by phoning Sandie Thomas at 412-257-1956. Purchase price is $15, plus $4 shipping and handling. To save you the shipping fee, Sandie will deliver anywhere in USC! n
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair
Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-220-7780 • Website: www.mainstreetusc.com • Email: mainstreetusc@gmail.com 10
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2009
Pittsburgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra Series Right here in the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is partnering with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra to bring you a wonderful and special concert series presented by the Pittsburgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra. The PSCO is only offered at Carnegie Music Hall and Upper St. Clair. Ticket prices are amazingly low for these high quality concerts which feature Andrés Cárdenes and many of the principals, such as Ann Martindale Williams, a resident of Upper St. Clair and Principal Cellist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
April 25, 2009 Concert Program Chausson: Concerto for Violin, Piano and String Quartet Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15
Anne Martindale Williams, PSO Principal Cello
March 21, 2009 Concert Program Honegger: Pastorale d’été Premo: The world premiere of a piece by Evan Premo. Milhaud: Concertino de Printemps for Violin and Chamber Orchestra Beethoven: Oboe Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D Major
Andrés Cárdenes, PSCO conductor and violinist
Tickets are still available — Join with your friends and family for a truly musical treat — Call now: 412-392-4900
Did you know: • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 was written as he began to realize he was going deaf. • The lost Beethoven Oboe Concerto has a reconstructed movement called Largo. PSO Co-Principal Oboe James Gorton is soloist. •The program features the world-premiere of a piece by Evan Premo, featuring bass and violin. • Both the Honegger and Milhaud pieces are rarely performed and both will be making their Pittsburgh debuts.
Spring 2009
Did you know: • A lawyer by trade, Chausson dabbled in writing and drawing before deciding to become a composer. • Jon Kimura Parker last performed in Pittsburgh in April 2007. • The Piano Concerto No. 1 was written during 1796 and 1797. The first performance was in Prague in 1798, with Beethoven himself playing the piano. • Although described as his first piano concerto, this piece was Beethoven’s third attempt at the genre.
COME A ENJOY ND SOME OF TH E FIN MUSIC EST Jon Kimura Parker IN THE IANS Pianist WORL D.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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The Thomas Thomas Studio— Studio— The Inspiring the the Next Next Generation Generation Inspiring Jennifer Lydon With so many dance studio options available in the Pittsburgh area, how can an aspiring dancer or dance parent determine which program is right? Will you look for the one that is closest to home or the most accessible by carpool? Maybe you’ll browse the Internet for a reputable studio or listen to a neighbor’s recommendation. Perhaps you should take into consideration how many students graduate from a particular studio so inspired by their dance foundation that they choose to further pursue their dance dreams. At The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts in the South Hills, students don’t leave dance behind when they graduate from high Emily Kikta received a mix of classical and contemporary ballet school, as many teenagers tend to do with their extra-curricular training at The Thomas Studio. activities. Thomas Studio dancers often continue to dance in college, choosing it as a major or a minor concentration. Once college graduation rolls around, many of these dancers plan to When asked about her dance-related goals, Roarty said, “In the start a career in the arts, whether it is as a performer, teacher, or next five years I hope to establish a great dance network through arts activist. performance and choreography. In ten years, I hope to branch off Still more Thomas Studio graduates may never actually set foot from my performance career and involve major dance companies on a stage or in a studio after they graduate from high school, with public schools.” but they will attest to the fact that their personal development Through research conducted within her area of study, Roarty growth at The Thomas Studio instilled in them lifelong character finds there is a void of arts in most educational environments. She traits that carry over to other aspects of their educational and believes that introducing dance into a child’s life would positively career goals. affect his or her communication skills and overall happiness. Jenna Krall, 2004 Upper St. Clair High School graduate, is cur“I feel that through dance I am able to understand people rently working toward her graduate degree in biostatistics better,” Roarty says. “I have come to find that dance has at Johns Hopkins University. Krall, who also graduspread into almost every aspect of my life—my future, ated from The Thomas Studio, says that dance has my relationships, my views on life.” always been a large part of her life. Thomas Studio dancer Emily Kikta is ex“Dance has given me the drive and ambiperiencing firsthand how dance can shape tion to pursue graduate work by providing a person’s life. After participating in two me with a skill set necessary for academic consecutive summer programs at The achievement. Although many people fail School of American Ballet (SAB) in New to see the relation between dance and York City, for which she had to audition, mathematics, I firmly believe that my Kikta was offered the opportunity to success in math can be credited to my stay with the program into the winter pursuit of dance.” term on full scholarship. After some As an undergraduate at George discussion with her parents, Kikta acMason University, Krall earned decepted the invitation to move to New grees in both mathematics and dance York and become a more permanent performance. She teaches dance at a SAB student. Until recently, Kikta, who studio in Baltimore, Maryland, and is 16 years old, attended USCHS and hopes to someday become an active The Thomas Studio. member of the dance community wherA typical day for Kikta includes goever she may live to raise awareness of ing to the Professional Childrens School the arts. (PCS), where she attends a normal high Another USCHS and Thomas Studio school with a shortened schedule. After two graduate, Katherine Roarty (class of 2007), classes at PCS, she walks to SAB for dance also feels strongly about infusing arts into class, followed by lunch, two more classes at her community. A dance major, business minor PCS and another dance class at SAB. This busy at Illinois-Champaign/Urbana, Roarty recently schedule will allow Kikta to graduate from high Emily Kikta strikes a pose at discovered an interest in arts education within school on time. The Thomas Studio. public schools. 12
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2009
Katherine Roarty is a dance major, business minor at Illinois-Champaign/Urbana.
Was the decision to let her daughter leave home at such a young age easy for Kikta’s mom, Patti? The fact that Patti, herself, was a professional ballerina and is now the ballet director at The Thomas Studio better allows her to relate to her daughter’s dreams. “My mom taught me all of my ballet training before my first summer at SAB and I got multiple chances to perform classical and contemporary ballet, which is definitely needed in the dance world today,” Kikta says. “The Thomas Studio gave me the love and education of dance, but the studio’s staff also supported me in continuing my training in New York.” When asked how she is enjoying her new life in the Big Apple, Kikta exclaims, “I love it! I’m meeting new people, and I get to experience all of New York all the time!” The Thomas Studio has been “growing dancers” in the South Hills for over 40 years. The family business, owned by Linda Thomas Spencer, saw an expansion in 2006 with The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts West, near Robinson Towne Centre in Oakdale. The highly educated group of professionals comprises a teaching staff at both locations of The Thomas Studio. All of the teachers have, or are in the process
of obtaining, a B.A. or B.F.A. in dance or education, and many of the staff members currently perform or have performed professionally at some point in their careers. Classes in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, hip hop, and gymnastics are offered at the studio, with appropriate levels for all ages. The Thomas Studio is proud to offer programs that provide exemplary dance instruction tailored to all interests and ability levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to cultivate a new hobby or an experienced dancer who would like to pursue dance as a lifelong goal, the studio has a class for you. Another USCHS and Thomas Studio graduate Cecilia Petursson (class of 2006) is majoring in dance at The Ohio State University and hopes to travel the world as a dancer. In fall 2007, the first part of her dream came true when she studied dance at The Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia, for six months. “When I auditioned for college I felt very prepared in the ballet section because of my training at The Thomas Studio,” Petursson says. “I feel that compared with other dancers at my college, I do have a much fuller and stronger ballet foundation.” Thomas Studio artistic director and co-choreographer for the USC Dance Team Jessica Spencer, who is also an USCHS graduate and 2006 inductee into the USC Arts Hall of Fame, feels strongly about the studio’s comprehensive curriculum. “I believe our program is unique, not only in ballet, but with all genres because our program for advanced dancers runs much like a pre-professional program, giving students the foundations to progress toward a university program,” Spencer says. “Because of our outstanding faculty, we are recognized not only as a ballet school or a competition studio or a gymnasium, but rather as a school that has the ability to offer the absolute best technique in all genres. That is by far what I am most proud of and what I will continue to focus on as the artistic director.” n
Kikta is currently studying dance fulltime at the School of American Ballet in New York City.
To contact The Thomas Studio for more information about the south or west location or to receive more specific information about the programs offered, call 412-257-2000 or visit the website www.thomasdance.com. Photos courtesy of dgarson.com. Spring 2009
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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A Man Named St. Clair (an Unappreciated Patriot) Part One of Two Dick Phillips
Arthur St. Clair’s career as an American patriot
began in Pennsylvania, continued to Ohio and spanned more than four decades of military service, government, and political life. Ignoring British position and promise of wealth, he endured a life of sacrifice on behalf of America’s freedom and democracy. One wonders if anyone has ever done more for his adopted country and been less appreciated or more poorly treated in his final days. Pennsylvania Heritage After six years in the King’s army, Captain St. Clair retired as Commandant of Fort Ligonier, Pennsylvania in1762. He and his family settled on acreage in the Ligonier Valley purchased with funds received from his military service and a marriage dowry. First a surveyor for the Penn family, he became Governor Penn’s assistant in 1774. He became a Westmoreland County Court Justice and then Magistrate, demonstrating his courage by dealing with lawlessness when he jailed the agents of Virginia’s British governor, Lord Dunmore, preventing them from taking Fort Pitt (now Pittsburgh). Statesman Before George Washington became our first president in 1789, America was governed from 1781 by ten presidents of the United States in Congress Assembled. From 1785 to 1787, St. Clair served as the elected delegate from Pennsylvania. In 1787, Arthur St. Clair was elected Congress’s ninth president, during which Congress enacted the Northwest Ordinance and the current United States Constitution. Clearly, St Clair was at the height of political celebrity when the founders of what is now Upper St. Clair took his name for their community in 1788. In 1789, President Washington and Congress appointed St. Clair the first governor of the Northwest Territory, an area the size of the original 13 colonies. Soldier and Patriot Born in Thurso, Scotland, in 1734, St. Clair’s efforts for the British army in Canada and Pennsylvania earned him favor with the King and his fellow officers. But the King’s corrupt policies and heavy taxes forced St. Clair to embrace American democracy and accept President Hancock’s commission as Colonel in the Continental Army. His first assignment in 1775 was to raise a regiment to cover the retreat of the American army from the British near Quebec. He next organized the New Jersey Militia under the command of George Washington, General of the Army, who soon promoted St. Clair to Brigadier General. He served with Washington during Valley Forge and took part in his crossing of the Delaware on Christmas night, 1776, before the Battle of Trenton. St. Clair is credited with developing the strategy which helped Washington capture both Princeton and Trenton, New Jersey, from the British. St. Clair was promoted to Major General and won many battles during eight years with the Continental Army. He remained Washington’s close friend for 24 years. One Battle Too Many Well-trained by the French, the most fierce Indian forces were the Miami and the Shawnee tribes. In 1791, Congress sent General Harmar and 1500 militiamen to win the peace along the Wabash River. Harmar lost several hundred men in a bitter defeat. 14
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In his fifth year as Territorial Governor, St. Clair, now 57 and ailing, was ordered by Congress to re-build Harmar’s demoralized force and launch a retaliatory attack. The confederation of Indian tribes ambushed St. Clair’s inferior force, many hundreds of whom either deserted or were killed. After this ill-advised battle, which Congress never supported with munitions or supplies, St. Clair resumed his governor duties for another ten years. Satisfaction of Service His Only Reward Many historians agree that St. Clair deserves much more recognition than he gets. But some folks remember him only for losing his last battle and dying a pauper. Truth is, his last few years as governor were a political nightmare. He served 12 years under Federalist presidents Washington and Adams. The Democratic-Republican candidate, Thomas Jefferson, prevented Adams’ second term with a malicious character assassination. Once elected, Jefferson surrounded the Federalist governor, St. Clair, with Democratic-Republican appointees to reduce his effectiveness. Because they disagreed on how Ohio should be structured for statehood, Jefferson removed St. Clair from office shortly before Ohio became a state. After years of effort, St. Clair did not share in Ohio becoming a state in 1803. As for the dying-in-poverty issue, Jefferson also wasn’t any help in getting the retiring St. Clair reimbursed by Congress for the 15 years expenses and debts he incurred while governor. After more than 200 years, it’s a good bet that today, most elected officials, general officers, and public officials have mastered the art of avoiding poverty at career’s end. n Editor’s Note: A self described storyteller and history buff, Phillips headed public/media relations agencies in his native Cleveland, in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona. He now lives in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Reach him at phillphx@aol.com. Part Two, which will be published in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s summer 2009 issue, will highlight Arthur St. Clair’s personal life.
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Lanny Frattare— No Doubt About Him! Wayne Herrod
After 33 years as the Pirates broadcaster and “voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates,” Lanny Frattare announced his retirement at the end of the 2008 baseball season. I sat down with Lanny this past December for an interesting and revealing talk about his career. “First, I am grateful to the Pirates and the fans for allowing me to enjoy this career for such a long time,” said Lanny. “This business is driven by ratings. Without the support of the Pittsburgh fans and the Pirates organization, I would have never lasted this long. I am reminded of what Vince Scully said—‘I am just a survivor in this business.’ If Vince said it, it must be true because most people, including me, consider Scully to be the best baseball announcer ever.” “From a very early age, I knew I wanted to be an announcer. I began by announcing at high school swim meets. The first time I got paid for announcing was at a district swim meet. My career has been a dream come true for me. If I didn’t get into broadcasting, I probably would have worked at the family business—my dad owned a bowling alley.” “In high school, I played sports, including baseball, basketball, and football. I was the starting quarterback my junior and senior years, mainly because there was no one else that was very good. Although my family was athletic, I was really not that good. I played sports to help me learn more about them, which helped me as an announcer.” “Starting with my freshman year at Ithaca College and continuing through my senior year, I worked at the college radio station. After graduating in 1970 with a BS in communications, I started my career announcing minor league baseball and hockey games. In 1975, Bob Prince brought me up and let me do a little bit of announcing for the Pirates. I was hired by the organization in 1976, and the rest is history.” For several years, Lanny also did play-by-play announcing for NCAA basketball and was the lead announcer at the Indiana/ Purdue game made famous when Bobby Knight threw a chair across court. “I got a lot of advice from Bob Prince. His best advice to me was that the job of Pirates announcer did not start and end with
In the Pittsburgh Pirates stadium announcer’s booth are Lanny Frattare and Steve Blass
the game. He told me to get out into the community and get involved. He stressed to me that I have a responsibility to the fans. I have always tried to live up to this advice.” “In the early part of my career, I struggled with my announcing style. I received a lot of criticism for my straightforward, report-the-game manner. I thought, ‘Do I need a new shtick? Do I need to create an on air persona that isn’t me? Am I doing it wrong?’ I then realized that I should not change who or what I am. I made a decision—this is me and how I do it. I guess I made the right choice.” Doing it Lanny’s way has certainly worked well! Lanny broadcast his 5000th game on August 10 against the Phillies. To help put things in perspective, that is over 45,000 innings, 270,000 outs, and a whole lot of “Go ball. Get out of heres!” Lanny talked to me about his decision to retire. “At first, I
Best Moment in the Booth: In 1990, the Pirates clinched the division title in St. Louis. Team Manger Jim Leyland and I had become great friends. I watched the team and its staff work tirelessly to achieve this goal. I was thrilled with the outcome. Nothing has topped that feeling! A mayoral proclamation was given to Lanny upon his retirement in October 2008. Left to right are Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Lanny Frattare, David Frattare, and Joe Talarico. 16
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wasn’t sure that I had done the right thing. It was hard to judge because at the end of the season, I am off from baseball anyhow. It didn’t feel different from any of the previous years. But, I knew it would hit hard when spring training started, and I started second guessing myself right away. After wavering with my decision, I now realize that it was time and that I had made the correct decision. The hotels, the traveling, and the time away from home were tough. Shortly thereafter, I spoke with a representative of the new Major League Baseball Network about doing some work for them. But I realized that it would be the same thing, just not all the time. When I decided not to pursue this, I knew that I was completely comfortable with my career ending decision.” Continuing with the interview, I asked Lanny specific questions and I got some great answers. Best Pirate Player: Barry Bonds. He did everything well! Best Opponent Player: Mike Schmidt, Hall of Famer third baseman. Mike hit for power and average, and he was a fantastic defensive third baseman. He beat you in every way possible. The Pirates Lack of Success: I really wish I knew the answer to that. There are a lot of theories and lots of choices, and it’s obviously a combination of many things. I honestly don’t know. But I do know that no one in the organization enjoys losing. No one wants to lose. Best Moment in the Booth: In 1990, the Pirates clinched the division title in St. Louis. Team Manger Jim Leyland and I had become great friends. I watched the team and its staff work tirelessly to achieve this goal. I was thrilled with the outcome. Nothing has topped that feeling! Worst Moment in the Booth: The Cabrera hit in 1992 for the Atlanta Braves in the bottom of the ninth that ended the Pirates hopes of winning the division and playing in the World Series. I felt bad for the Pirates, but worse for Jim. When I went to the locker room after the game, Jim’s wife, Kate, told me to talk to Jim because “he needs a friend right now.” It was a tough situation. Funniest Moment: It was a game in Philadelphia. It was a bad game. Mike Lavalliere had just come up to bat and my co-host Steve Blass was telling a story about being in a sulky at a charity race driven by a horse named Whistling Bill at the Meadows harness race track.
Kevin McClatchy (right) presents “The Pride of the Pirate” award to Lanny Frattare in April 2007.
Steve is the funniest person I know. He was on a roll that day and wouldn’t let up. He got me laughing so hard that I had to step away from the mike. You can guess what happened. On the next pitch, Lavalliere smacked a homerun, and we couldn’t call it because we were laughing too hard. Steve got me good. Community Involvement: I have been involved with Family Links charity golf tournament for 22 years, an annual event that has raised over one and one-half million dollars. I don’t take credit. Sure my name is on the event, but it is successful because of the many volunteers and the participants who support it. Two people most responsible for its success are USC resident Karen Williams and Terry Elias-Joyce. Person I Admire the Most: Steve Blass. Steve was an outstanding pitcher whose career ended suddenly and unexplainably when he lost control of his throw. Steve never complained about his plight. Courageous and funny, he has the most positive attitude about life that one could hope to have. I am a better person because of Steve. Best Person I Have Met: This is a tough question. I have met so many people throughout my life that I respect and admire. If I had to pick one, I would pick Jim Leyland. He exemplifies class. Jim is sensitive, passionate, sincere, and honest. Even when he is blunt—and he can be very blunt—he does it with sincerity. Jim has given a great amount of his time (and a lot of his money) to local communities. Being the modest person he is, Jim has never looked for praise, publicity, or anything in return. Everyone should have a friend like Jim. Regrets: None. I’ve had a marvelous career. I love Pittsburgh, and I continue to call it “home.” Lanny rounded out the interview by saying, “I am blessed. God gave me a good voice and I got some great breaks along the way.” Always humble and a gentleman, Lanny did not add (but I will) that he is a first class person. Mix into the equation sincerity, honesty, and a dash of hard work and maybe it wasn’t just some “great breaks” that launched his career. There is a saying: “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” This is certainly the case for Lanny Frattare. He deserved every break he received. Not because he got breaks, but because he earned them. Oh, and the great voice… that didn’t hurt him either. And there’s “no doubt about it!” n
Jim Leyland, former Pirates manager, and Lanny Frattare
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Barn Raising–1868 Mary Lynne Spazok
Barn raising dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries of rural America and Canada where every new farm bolstered the prosperity of a burgeoning frontier. “Built to last,” the barn was the architectural showpiece of a pastoral pioneer’s legacy. A community event, the camaraderie strengthened friendships. Throughout the demanding two-day assemblage, women prepared provisions while men held spirited competitions of speed and force. The 1868 barn raising of John Gilfillan (designer and owner) occurred as part of a social framework with a good deal of interdependence. Family bonds were communal, dating back generations. Buying and selling land, labor, seed, cattle, and the like were the norm. Cities were too
participated in countless barn raisings, were crew chiefs. Men labored while young boys fetched parts and tools. Women and girls, like young Eleanor Gilfillan, were entrusted with the preparation and serving of refreshment and food. If absolutely necessary, a skilled tradesman and neighbor such as supervisor John Williams was on site. An organizational event, barn raising or raising bee commenced with the cellar being dug and the barn floor constructed. Since “post and beam” was the long-established method of construction in traditional barn raisings, sections of a massive timber framework (bent frames) were assembled on the ground adjacent to the barn floor by fitting the various components of the frame together and fastening them with wooden pegs driven into previously drilled holes. At the appropriate location, each bent frame was raised to an upright position by the use of long poles with steel points (barn spikes) and then interconnected with other bent frames. This action required monumental manpower. To ensure safety, only confident specialists were permitted to work on the more critical jobs such as the joinery and doweling of the post and beam construction.
Young visitors to the barn, escorted by Carrie Yonke (left) and Rachael Heins (right)
far away to visit with any frequency on horseback, so neighborhoods worshipped and celebrated together, all the while maintaining a society of self-sufficiency and refusal to incur debt. Humility, trust, accountability, commitment, and selfsacrifice were paramount to success. Unlike the mild winters of Europe, the brutal blizzards of America gave added urgency to the completion of barn construction. Elements of the framework for a sizeable barn included clearing the land and designing plans, then collecting hardware and lumber. Elders, who had
A wagon ride to the barn
In 2009, the barn, often the first, largest, and most costly structure built by a family who settled in a new area, is essential for the storage of hay and keeping of horses and livestock. Barn raisings are necessary to quickly rebuild after fires or natural disasters as well. Just like the Gilfillan Family of Western Pennsylvania, the Amish and Mennonite sects of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Canada attach
Gilfillan’s big red barn
great importance to this skill even today. Contemporary echoes of the barn raising carry on with the volunteer group Habitat for Humanity (www.habitat.org). You, too, can make a difference by giving of time and energy to programs such as Global Village, Gulf Recovery Effort, and Women Build. A testimony to hard work, dedication, and community spirit, John Gilfillan along with friends and relatives inspired Eleanor’s insightful memoir of the Gilfillan barn raising of 1868 (see page 19). Rain or shine, the “big red barn” at the homestead is open noon until 3 p.m. on USC Community Day on Saturday, May 16. As you enter, observe the post and beams that hold antique farm equipment. Imagine children scampering among bales of hay and jumping helter skelter in the lofts high above. As you depart, grasp and savor the wisdom, humility, trust, accountability, commitment, and sacrifice. Just as in 1868, these personal attributes that went into its construction are paramount to success and a sense of well-being in 2009. By the way, why is the “big red barn” red? Be sure to read the May 2009 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY to find out! n
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Barn Raising 1868
A Memoir of Young Eleanor Gilfillan For a long time before the barn was built Father was drawing plans. Dan Williams, the man who built the barn was a fine carpenter, rather peculiar and somewhat close when the place was decided. Father and Mr. Williams went to the woods and marked the trees to be cut down and sawed according to directions, at the saw mill just below here, into rafters and joist beams. The long straight sills they hewed by hand in the woods. We had a pair of oxen at that time as they were especially useful in hauling logs and working away timber. They were dark red and answered to the name of Buck and Berry. We had a very good lunch girl at this time and she was surely needed. Callie Kitzer was her name. She and Mother must have gotten through an amount of hard work, cooking for men working in fresh wood, which is a great appetizer. It took a great deal of providing. I have forgotten how many times a week Callie baked an oven full of bread, pie and cakes. No bread wagon came by our door, besides no one would have admitted they had bought a loaf of bread. The great day was the barn raising. All the heavy timbers were raised by hand, men pulling on the ropes with a heave ho until each certain piece was in its right location and a stout oak pin driven in. It is a very dangerous and a hazardous work, the slip of a rope, a misstep or some slight miscalculation and no one could tell what the result would be. Well, this raising was set for a certain day in June when the days were the longest. The wives in many cases coming with their husbands to help in the house. Dinner and supper were served in the grape arbor on a long table the length of the arbor. Father always liked plenty of help on all occasions. I can just remember looking at the men eating, but had learned the wisdom of keeping out of the way at such times. I remember I had a swing from the cross piece of the building post in the back yard. Two other little girls and I were swinging there when Uncle Andy Gilfillan came through the gate and said it was all finished and no one was hurt and that was a great thing. I have no recollection of Uncle Andy before that and little afterward, only that he was always gruff. I remember hearing Father tell about the raising afterward. How well it was planned, not one timber too long or too short, each raised to its right place and an oak pin driven in. n Note: This memoir was written by Eleanor Gilfillan, daughter of John Gilfillan who was the designer and owner of the barn. The barn was built with the help of many neighbors under the supervision of Mr. Williams. Spring 2009
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TED PETERSEN--A MAN FOR ALL Seasons Wayne Herrod
The Upper St. Clair Athletic Department rarely suffers a loss, but this past November, it did. The loss didn’t occur on the playing field, but, rather, in the office when USC Athletic Director Ted Petersen left USC and moved home to Illinois. Wellliked, Petersen took a job at Kanakakee Junior College, ten miles from his hometown as the school’s athletic director and director of physical education. “For almost ten years, I have thought about the idea of moving home,” said Petersen. “I had plans to retire before the beginning of the 2009 fall season, but this job opportunity caused me to shorten my game plan. While I wasn’t looking to leave USC so suddenly, I couldn’t pass up the job offer and, likewise, the opportunity to move my family to my hometown. My wife, Marian, and I had future plans to build a home on my parent’s farm. We decided that we wanted our five-year-old son, Samuel, to grow up in a rural setting, where I grew up. Marian was totally supportive of the move, despite the fact that she had to leave behind her large Pittsburgh family (she is the 11th of 12 children).” Six years ago and after 12 years at Trinity High School (five of those as the school’s head football coach), Ted applied for and was appointed Upper St. Clair School District’s athletic director. Ted’s good friend, Tunch Ilkin, suggested that Ted apply for the job vacated by retiring AD Mike Sheleheda. “I knew of the school’s overall athletic success and I was especially impressed with the football program,” said Ted. “It reminded me of the Pittsburgh Steelers program—prepared, explosive, and well coached.” When Ted first came to USC, he was basically one man for one season—football. And well he should be! He played in the NFL for nine seasons, eight of them with the Steelers. He was the starting guard for two Super Bowl championships and enjoyed a great career. You’d better know about his football career on your own though, because Ted certainly wouldn’t tell you. Ted is a humble, gentle giant.
Cindy Storer, secretary for the USC Athletic Department summed it up. “Ted is a wonderful person. He made all times good. In all situations, he remained levelheaded and fair. He could always be delightfully sane in the most insane of times. I will miss him. Jeez… everyone will miss him!” Upper St. Clair School District Assistant Superintendent Terry Kushner (also a football man) became good friends with Ted. “He is a good man. Everything that he does he handles with class and integrity. He has always been a great role model,” said Terry. USC’s head football coach Jim Render commented, “Ted’s being named the AD was great for me since he was a football coach and knew of the problems that surround the game. He knew what needed to be done. He worked wonderfully with every coach here. He never picked sides and made every situation a ‘win-win’ for all parties. We’re losing a good man.” Ted became good friends with Art Rooney, Jr., vice president of the Steelers organization, who was responsible for drafting Ted into the NFL and bringing him to Pittsburgh in the late 70s. Art commented, “We drafted Ted because he was cut from the mold that Coach Chuck Noll wanted. He had tremendous athletic ability and was coachable and intelligent. Oh, and those Hollywood good looks didn’t hurt him much either!” USC resident, former Steelers player, and current broadcaster Tunch Ilkin was one of Ted’s closest friends. “I am going to miss Ted a lot,” said Tunch. “We’ve been the best of friends for a long time.” Tunch and Ted and their families would enjoy camping, hunting, and fishing trips together during the years the two men played for the Steelers. “When Ted came to the Steelers he was ‘country strong,’ continued Tunch. “His hand strength was legendary; no one could beat him at arm wrestling. Well, I thought I figured out a way to beat him. One year when we were at a football camp, many people lined up to challenge Ted at arm wrestling. There were college
Joining Ted Petersen (center) at a USC football game where he was honored this past fall are friends and former Pittsburgh Steelers, left to right, Craig Wolfley, Tunch Ilkin, and Jan Kolb, along with Jan’s son, Tanner Kolb. 20
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players and NFL players, including the likes of Mike Webster and Anthony Munoz. I got at the end of a long line, thinking to myself that he’d be tired by the time we wrestled. It was my turn and I cheated by jumping the start gun. Didn’t work. Ted just smiled and won easily.” While everyone I interviewed for this article said gleaming things about Ted, Tunch laughingly shared information that proves, while almost perfect, Ted was capable of questionable maneuvers. “Because Ted had such an unbelievable grip and strong hands,” said Tunch, “he used this strength to grab onto the opposing defensive lineman with a vice-like grip.” Yes, he would hold a defensive lineman, put the habeas grabus on him, and not let go!
Starting as a one-sport, one-season man, Ted has since developed into a man for all seasons. While at USC, he became involved in all of the school’s sports and grew to especially enjoy soccer. “I am impressed with the USC School District, its staff, and especially the students. The school’s athletics are second to none. I am fortunate to have been involved in the numerous championships during my time here, and each has been equally important to me. Also, I will miss the many friends I have made while here.” “Super Ted” might be a great nickname for Ted Petersen. Not because he was a Super Bowl champion, but because he is a down right super person! n
Left to right are Matt Martocci, assistant AD; Joe Gracefo, USC trainer; Ted Petersen; Cindy Storer, Athletic Department secretary; and Matt Mellinger, acting AD
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e r e H m Fro The Long Walks Away Erin Gibson Allen
Figuring out life is not for the simpleminded. Wisdom reveals itself one mysterious piece at a time. Each piece must be held up to the light and examined, and while some pieces are stashed in a drawer to be reconsidered another day, other pieces make sense immediately. One hunk of wisdom that crashes young parents over the head is that children grow up quickly, so don’t get too busy working and carpooling and fail to enjoy them. This bit of insight was knocking around my head last fall and inspired me to book a family weekend getaway at a cabin somewhere deep in Pennsylvania’s woods. I found the cabin through a scientific process of having heard of it once and finding a website that would accept my credit card to reserve it. One other piece of fairly obvious wisdom that escaped me somehow is that one should not book a cabin sight unseen. This tidbit of insight didn’t hit me until the family drove up to the cabin, in the middle of a pitch-black forest on a chilly October Friday night. Leaving the comfort of the minivan behind, we lugged our bags across the dirt driveway, up some creaky wooden steps, to the front door. My husband turned the key in the latch and a silent conversation, that only a couple that has been married more than a decade can have, began: Him: “Well, honey, this place is gross.” Me: “I know, honey, that’s obvious. But the boys are excited so we’ll have to make do.” Him: “We’re not alone. There are critters hiding in every corner of this place.” Me: “No, there are no mice or rats or bats or anything here.” Him: “You’re in denial, aren’t you?” Me: “Yes, I have to be. It’s the only way I’ll be able to cope while we’re here.” With no cell phone coverage and no television or radio for distraction, the family had not much to do but contemplate our dusty surroundings. After spreading a blanket over a dreadful, brown burlap couch and pretending to relax and read for a while, I declared that I was headed to the loft to sleep. My husband kicked the vintage furnace a few times, hoping that it would choke out more heat, and we headed to bed. The first night did, in fact, involve some late-night scurrying noises near the head of our bed. As I lay rigid, I told my husband that perhaps he should turn on the light, although I was certain the noise was a happy squirrel on the roof. In the morning, only slightly rested, I donned thick socks and padded cautiously to the kitchen. Hmmm. No utensils or paper towels. Or dish soap. Determining that our faces were too large to shove directly into the jar of peanut butter that I had brought, and that we really shouldn’t eat milk and cereal in a trough-like manner, I moved on to plan C. 24
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I avoided looking too carefully into the dark, shadowy kitchen cabinets while reaching for the toaster. As I picked it up, it slid slowly between my hands from decades of neglectful cleaning. With some deep breaths and happy thoughts, I was able to make some dry toast for my two sons. While the children ate, I stood in the center of the cabin chewing on some nuts that I had packed in a sandwich baggie. Again reading my mind, my husband put his arm around my shoulders and said, “You know, it’s okay to occasionally skip a shower.” Yes, I agreed. In this environment, I was better off hoping that yesterday’s shower was extra cleansing and would last the weekend. I’d be just fine with a quick ponytail and a rendezvous with a toothbrush and washcloth. After leaving the cabin, we hiked miles of remote trails in the fall foliage, discovered a small river in a distant valley, and climbed an old fire tower (I panicked three quarters of the way up and turned around—I was still working through some cabin issues—but the rest of the family made it). We found secluded historical landmarks and stared at them with awe and walked around flea markets that sold knick-knacks that I didn’t know existed. We discovered quaint stores in small towns and their endearing owners. I bought a scented candle that I thought might freshen up the cabin a bit. We found charming restaurants that offered fresh, organic food. Life was looking up. We stayed out as late as possible, and when we did return to the cabin, we lit a fire in the outdoor pit and spent a long while throwing sticks into the flames. Being outside in the dark woods felt safer than sitting in the cabin. When sleep was unavoidable, we went in. After one final night in the cabin, I rose early Sunday morning and packed my belongings into the car in seven minutes flat. I sat in the passenger seat, engine running, ready to go, waiting for my husband and boys to wake up. I should make one thing clear. I love cleanliness and a hot shower. But, I also value nature and think that children should have ample opportunity to explore it. One side of my personality pulls me toward hiking in the forest and swimming in lakes, while the other wants a glass of red wine and a wedge of Brie in a lodge with a view. I don’t apologize for being an optimist and hoping for both. As I said, wisdom comes in bits and pieces. Some bits hit us over the head harder than others. Don’t rent a cabin in the woods sight unseen. But don’t be afraid of an adventure either. Weekends have a way of feeling identical—shopping for groceries, driving to activities, cleaning rooms, fixing meals. I regret the nasty cabin in the woods, but not the long walks wandering away from it. n
I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas about my column with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at eallen@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Let me know if, like me, you’re from here.
Celebrating Johnny Appleseed Mary Lynne Spazok
The whimsical spirit of Johnny Appleseed was celebrated by 100 Eisenhower Elementary pupils during their autumn outing to the Gilfillan Homestead. Photos show the trunk of an incredibly aged but fruitful apple tree. Tall and proud, its gnarly character reflects the fortitude of the pioneers who were inspired by the animated ambition of John Chapman. Best known as historical icon Johnny Appleseed, his wilderness adventures are larger-than-life legends. John Chapman was born September 26, 1774, in Massachusetts. Forty-nine years of his life were spent in the wilderness cultivating orchards from wee apple seeds. His clothes were burlap “gunny sacks,” while his hat was a tin cooking pot. His favorite book, the Bible, underscored his staunch belief in God. A gentle and caring man, his ambition was that fruit bearing trees would ensure that no man, rich or poor, would go hungry. He slept outdoors and walked barefoot around the country planting far and wide. Folklore portrays him frolicking freely with wildlife. Once a rattlesnake tried to bite him, but the fangs would not go into his foot because his skin was leathery as an elephant’s hide. A friend to all, Native Americans throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Illinois held Johnny in high regard. His bountiful passion for serving others led some Indians to believe that he was touched by the Great Spirit. A compassionate man, he understood the views and needs of both the white man and Indians. A first-rate communicator, he was eloquent and persuasively kindhearted with a keen sense of humor. Openly patriotic, he celebrated the Fourth of July proclaiming vigorously the moral fiber of freedom. Fresh apples are firm, fruity, and free of bruises. Refrigerate to ensure crispness, zest, and slow ripening. To prevent foul odor absorption, store
Shown are Eisenhower Elementary second graders with teachers and parent helpers.
away from strong smelling foods, like onions and garlic. Long term preservation methods include unsweetened or sweetened dry pack, syrup method of freezing, or jar canned. Remember the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away?” With five grams of fiber per apple, this succulent source acts to improve blood lipid profiles while preventing fatty buildup in the blood vessels. The Iowa Women’s Health Study declares, “Apples along with red wine and pears may decrease mortality from coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture database states that “apples are among the top 20 foods with the highest antioxidant concentration.” The antioxidant quercetin is heart-healthy, providing chronic disease-fighting benefits. Flavonoids help to decrease blood pressure in conjunction with sodium restriction, physical activity, and alcohol reduction. While the legend of Johnny Appleseed is famous, John Chapman died in 1845 at the age of 71—remarkably his first documented sickness. Decades later, horticultural historians acknowledge that the last surviving Roman Apple tree sown by Johnny thrives on the farm of Richard and Phyllis Algeo in Nova, Ohio. On USC Community Day, Saturday, May 16, be on the lookout for JA and the gnarly apple tree at Gilfillan Farm’s rear yard, close to the white picket fence. Marvel at the ability of a miniscule seed that grows into a scrumptious nutritious treat. Be a Johnny Appleseed and compost that core! Live in harmony with nature— reduce, re-use, recycle. n
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Spring Dining Guide
2009
Dining Review—Cafe J
Recently remodeled, Jamie’s on West Liberty Avenue in Dormont has been transformed into a 21st century contemporary restaurant—Cafe J Restaurant & Lounge. The complete makeover, which gives the “wow” effect when you walk through the double doorway, was created by USC resident Bill Korenich of Ardagh Designs. Bill, a 1978 graduate of USCHS, has worked in the interior design industry for 20 years, designing office buildings, home interiors, and now Cafe J. Cafe J’s owner, Jamie Petrolias, started his restaurant career at Jamie’s on the Square in downtown Pittsburgh’s Market Square. In late November 2007, Jamie entered into a partnership with Phil and Linda Krause. Together they have been instrumental in changing the Dormont restaurant’s menu with daily specials, adding delectable tapas (perfect for sharing), and introducing a variety of new wines.
The wine selection has increased and includes 21 wines by the glass and 50 wines by the bottle. The extensive food menu includes sesame scallops, veal T-Bone, spots with crab meat, Chicken Napoleon, and Cavatapi Gambero, to name a few. The tapas menu boasts many offerings, including tenderloin sliders, Pork Osso Buco, roasted eggplant and white bean hummus, and Pollo Roulade. Parking is free in the adjacent lot and behind the building, with metered parking also available. The banquet room, adjacent to the upscale dining area and contemporary bar, seats up to 150 people for parties, sports banquets, rehearsal dinners, or large business events. For further information, v i s i t w w w. c a f e j 3 2 2 0 . c o m o r c a l l 412-561-0450. n
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Inviting, with a stylish contemporary feel, Cafe J offers an eclectic menu of sumptuous dishes with a California flair. Our Tapas Bar offers a selection of small plates, perfect for sharing and comparing. Sample a selection of fine wines…by the glass or by the bottle. All in a dynamic setting with intimate booths, a cozy nook, and a comfortable modern bar. Enjoy a dining experience that’s uniquely Cafe J.
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3220 W. Liberty Avenue • Pittsburgh, PA 15216 • 412.561.0450 • www.cafej3220.com 26
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Spring Dining Guide
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Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors Adopts Goals
Board of School Directors
Established September 22, 2008
The Board of School Directors and School District administration jointly established specific areas for goal setting for the District. Three areas of focus were identified, with the central goal of “maintaining a constant focus on our educational mission.”
School District News
Amy L. Billerbeck President 412-833-2712 2011*
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2011*
Harry F. Kunselman Vice President 412-851-1115 2009*
Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*
Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2009*
Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2011*
Louis A. Piconi 412-831-1880 2011*
Rebecca A. Stern 412-220-0745 2011*
William M. Sulkowski 412-221-9516 2009*
The 2009 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the High School LGI room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.
*Date indicates expiration of term. 28
Developing learned and responsible citizens for a global society is the mission of the nationally recognized Upper St. Clair School District, which is served by a responsive and innovative staff who,
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
in partnership with the community, provides learning experiences that nurture the uniqueness of each child and promote happiness and success.
Visioning • Create a long-term planning system in which “visioning” will be an on-going, living process. • Plan and execute “Vision 2020” initiative by developing a vision for the kind of education our students will need over the next 12 to 15 years. Set short, medium, and long-term goals to achieve this vision. Community Engagement • Increase Community involvement in and awareness of the activities of the School District. Sound Economic Practices • Develop a year-round focus on the budget at the Board level, so that the Board and the community thoroughly understand the components of the budget, and the educational and financial impact of decisions made throughout the year. • Implement a long-range financial planning system. • Develop a plan for sustainability of our exceptional education system, within the limited financial resources of the community. n
Middle School Renovation Plans Unveiled
Preliminary designs for the renovation of Boyce and Fort Couch Middle Schools were presented to the USC community this past October. The School District assembled a professional design and construction team, comprising Graves and McLean as architects, PJ Dick as construction manager, CJL Engineering as engineering consultants, and ARAMARK as commissioning agent. Last spring, Bill DeJong, a noted educational facility planner, led the District through a four-day process, which included input from faculty, administrative staff, board members, the architects, and community leaders, to identify the educational specifications for the middle schools. Based on educational specifications, the architects refined and enhanced the original designs with the culminating report forming the basis for the designs as presented. A key consideration in the renovation is the efficient operation of the building, which includes maximizing energy efficiency, maintaining high levels of air quality in the buildings, and implementing various “green building” initiatives. The District has been, and will continue to be, proactive in following green initiatives, where possible, in all of the buildings. Research demonstrates that student and employee performance can be positively impacted by incorporating green initiatives, such as high levels of daylight and air quality, in the building design. The District’s pursuit of these initiatives, including consideration for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), is a verifiable assurance to parents, staff, and students that high standards of safety and quality are being maintained throughout the renovation process. The District’s ability to move these projects forward is dependent on the ability to manage the financial side. While the design phase of the project continues, the District is working on a parallel path to monitor the District’s financial options and the impact of the market environment. As the process moves forward, informational meetings for Township residents are ongoing. Visit the District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us for the latest updates about the middle school renovations. n
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Boyce Principal Receives National Award
Boyce Middle School principal Karen Brown traveled to Colorado this past October to attend the National Middle School Conference, where she was presented with the National Middle School Association Distinguished Educator Award. Hundreds of educators from across the country were nominated, but Brown was one of only two awardees. She was nominated by Dr. John Bornyas, Director of Programming, Operations, and Middle Level Education (5-8) for the Upper St. Clair School District. “It’s very exciting,” said Karen. “I keep asking myself if I really won.” USC School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick O’Toole commented, “We’ve always known locally that Karen is a distinguished middle school leader, and now she is recognized nationally as a distinguished middle school leader.” Karen said that she considered the honor a team award, stating that the teachers at Boyce are willing to try new ideas, and to take things and run with them. Brown received her bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock College and her master’s degree and principal’s certification from Duquesne University. She has served the District for 35 years. n Dr. John Bornyas and Boyce principal Karen Brown
Ken Medvid Loses Battle with Cancer
Ken Medvid, former head custodian at Upper St. Clair High School, lost his battle with myelomonocytic leukemia this past December. Sandy Gallo, a secretary at the high school, called Medvid “one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met.” The word “no” was not in his vocabulary. He was always so eager to help, so reliable, and so conscientious. He will be sorely missed. Paul Fox, Performing Arts Curriculum Leader for the Upper St. Clair School District said, “Our Upper St. Clair School District extended family will remember Ken for his warm, caring personality, ‘can-do’ attitude, and constant willingness to help others. Besides the love and commitment he showed us all, his greatest personal attribute was strength—a strong heart, with an unrelenting focus and will to fight his cancer. His strength sustained us all! As head custodian, he would effortlessly lift band risers or large tables over his head to help set-up for an event. I will remember him as a strong and loyal father, husband, friend, and colleague.” Both Upper St. Clair and Peters Township responded to Ken’s illness with an outpouring of support. During his treatment he needed numerous blood transfusions, and both communities held blood drives to replenish blood supplies and to try to find a donor for a stem cell transplant. Ken, is survived by his wife, Debbie, who works at Pleasant Valley Elementary School in Peters, and his sons, Ken and Brian, who are both graduates of Peters Township High School. n
Ken Medvid, during a visit to Streams Elementary when the students presented him with 1000 cranes (an Asian tradition for long life) and get well wishes
Donations in honor of Ken’s life can be made to: Patient Care Fund, West Penn Cancer Institute, 4800 Friendship Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224. Spring 2009
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High School Engineering Students Take on Challenging Projects Fred Peskorski, Advanced Engineering Teacher
Students in the high school’s Advanced Engineering course elected to undertake an exceptionally difficult challenge this year. After brainstorming a list of problems to solve that included among other proposals, an earthquake machine, a rollercoaster, a hovering skateboard, and a rocket-powered boat, the students ultimately chose to design, build, test, and analyze a remote-controlled submersible. During the Advanced Engineering course, students apply the skills that they have learned in the Introduction to Engineering course as well as lessons learned in their other academic courses. Relying heavily on their math and science knowledge, as well as their language class training, they develop a set of written instructions for the project. The students are required to apply the engineering design process to solve various “real world” problems, and student collaboration is critical to success in this class. Solid analytical thinking skills and good communication between teammates are vital assets to finding the best solutions to the proposed problems. After the students compiled a list of problems that they would like to work on during the year, they chose to build a submersible that could be tested in the high school swimming pool. The teams then worked together, with some guidance from their teacher, to establish the design and testing criteria to which the submersible must adhere. Some of the most critical elements included the ability to dive, propel forward under water, turn left under water, turn right under water, and return to the surface. At no time could the submersible be directed to do any of these tasks with anything other than a remote-controlled system. The students had a very small budget, and to their credit they spent less than ten dollars to complete their project! The two student teams approached the problem in distinctly different ways. Although one team did not satisfactorily solve the problem, the members certainly learned to appreciate the value of time management, teamwork, and effective communication skills. James Kern, Zach Huss, Chris Duarte, Ferris Ayoub, and Brian Popeck deserve recognition for coming up with some very innovative ideas for solving the problem. The design for their submersible included hydro foils to submerge and to surface, and a water pump used for propulsion.
The submersible undergoes repairs. 30
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Left to right are winning team members Ronak Patel, Phil Dormish, Dave McCurrie, Gabe Nastac, and Matt Karashin
The winning team was composed of Dave McCurrie, Phil Dormish, Gabe Nastac, Ronak Patel, and Matt Karashin. They exhibited genuine enthusiasm and motivation from the first day of the project until the final day of testing. They divided work among themselves so that little time was wasted, and the methods they used to seal water out of the motors demonstrated the value of research. They also used every bit of “pool time” available to them for testing and evaluating their methods of ballast and propulsion. The winning submersible was primarily made from two-inch PVC pipe, a couple of old remote controlled cars, duct tape, and a lot of hot glue. Its measurements were approximately two-feet long by two-feet wide and one-and one-half-feet tall. There was a central cavity that housed the circuit boards, batteries, and motors used for submerging to the bottom of the pool and elevating to the surface of the water. The rear tubes housed the propulsion motors that sent the submersible forward and also turned it right and left. While the primary focus of this course is to emphasis the importance of engineering and have the students work through the design process to find solutions to practical problems, inevitably many other lessons and skills are also learned. During this project, the students used both hand tools and power machines to work with a variety of different materials. They became quite adept at soldering wires to circuit boards. They learned to communicate complicated thoughts and procedures through simply worded and easy-to-understand directions. This was a very challenging assignment and the students proved that they were up to the task. Credit for their achievements
should be extended to all of their teachers, because the students came to the Advanced Engineering course with strong critical thinking skills. They embraced the challenge of learning new things and developing a sound solution to the problem placed before them. Lastly, a special note of thanks is extended to the Health and Physical Education Department for allowing the students to use the pool for testing purposes whenever they needed to troubleshoot their submersible. The lessons learned and applied in this course transfer naturally into the college courses our students gravitate toward. Many students have communicated notes of gratitude for the preparation that they received in the engineering courses as well as the technology courses taken at the high school. Striving to learn more, the students have already begun to work on their next project. n
SD For questions about advanced engineering projects for USCHS students, contact Fred Peskorski (fpeskorski@uscsd.k12.pa.us) at the high school.
The submersible is tested in the waters at the high school pool.
High School Mentoring Program Eases Transition
USC High School took steps this past fall to try to make the transition from middle school to high school a little easier by partnering incoming freshmen with mentors from the high school’s junior class. USC High School principal Dr. Michael Ghilani said the objective of the mentoring program was to have the freshmen more engaged and more a part of the high school right from the start. This was a first step of the transition team made up of teachers, counselors, and administrators from Fort Couch Middle School and the high school to help students make the transition from eighth grade to the high school. High school counselor Jennifer Kirk said the program focuses on building positive relationships, not just between the mentors and their mentees, but throughout the school. She said the freshmen feel safe asking their mentors about all aspects of high school, from academic to social. Shannon Dressler, school psychologist, said that even though the program is in its first year, there is already a lot of positive feedback from both students and teachers, with the freshmen students saying that the mentor advice has been very helpful, something the homeroom teachers echo. At a large scale activity this fall, mentors and freshmen participated in “field day” activities, providing an opportunity to bond and engage in team building experiences. Junior mentors visit
freshmen homerooms on a regular basis to speak to the students and answer whatever questions they have, from academics to what to wear to a school dance. Dr. Ghilani said funding for this year’s mentoring program came from the PTSO, but he would like to bring in additional funding to grow the program and make it more formal. Based on this year’s success, Dr. Ghilani believes he can make a case for financial support. He has a meeting set up with the Pennsylvania Mentoring Partnership for possible outside funding and he has ideas to make the program even better in the future. n
High school juniors want freshmen to know “We got your back!” Spring 2009
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Ties with Thailand—Shrinking Our World and Expanding Our Family Dianna Handen
Never, ever would we have imagined our son, Adam, coming home from A reunion with Thai students and teachers school as a 15-year-old and announcing, “Mom and Dad, I want to go to Thailand.” Never, ever, would we have imagined saying “yes” to our only child traveling to the other side of the world. While we traveled as a family to Europe and the Middle East, our son had never been farther away from us than a few miles for an overnight with friends or a few weeks at summer camp. Thailand was about as far as one could get from Upper St. Clair before heading closer to home again. Thailand certainly met our definition of “foreign.” We knew little to nothing about its language, political structure, architecture, religion, or culture. Half of our extended family thought the idea was wonderful—a great adventure; the other half thought we were crazy. We swallowed hard, took a few deep breaths, and decided to opting to participate in the second part of the program. He was to learn more before thinking “no.” I attended a meeting at the high stay with Boat’s family. While Adam was on the plane to Thailand, school to get additional information. Luck Kosoladolkitt Groves Boat’s parents called us to say that they were ready to welcome gave an excellent presentation and answered all questions about Adam. They told us, “Don’t worry, we will take good care of him.” the school’s new Thai-USC Student Cultural Exchange Program. Any concerns we had were put to rest. We felt confident that they Luck designed and directs this program. After that meeting, I, would embrace Adam just as we had embraced Boat. Our son too, was hooked. It was clear upon hearing Luck’s commitment, came home with numerous stories of his adventures. In addition, passion, careful planning, and vision that Adam would not only he made many new friendships and developed an increased apbe well cared for and learn a great deal, but he would also have preciation of both Thai and U.S. culture. It turns out that this was only the beginning of the adventure the time of his life. My “no” turned into an enthusiastic “yes,” for us. In spring 2007, we hosted two more boys from Thailand, but it took a few more days to convince my husband. Our first step was to serve as a host family to a wonderful Thai Ten and Aom. Our new boys each had their own personality, boy in spring 2006. Sukhatet Chokkanapitak (most fondly known interests, and wonderful sense of humor. Once again for five by USC students and families as “Boat”) was one of 35 Thai stu- weeks, we enjoyed becoming a larger family. In the spring, we again hosted Ten when he returned to Upper St. Clair as part of dents who came to USC. Boat lived with us for five weeks. At first, I worried about everything—what to cook, how to this program and also hosted another Thai student named “Book.” communicate, how to help Boat feel welcomed and at home. I now proudly say that, in addition to Adam, we also have four But as soon as we met, these concerns disappeared. Boat learned Thai sons through this exchange program. Thailand no longer seemed foreign to us. In fall 2007, we from us, and we from him. He very quickly became our second son—a gift we did not anticipate. The exchange program is so were excited to learn that parents could piggyback on the next well organized—the students are active during and after school Thai-USC Student Cultural Exchange Program trip during the for much of their stay, participating in local events, conducting winter school break, when the weather in Thailand is a bit more dances and presentations on Thai culture at venues around the comfortable (70-90 degrees Fahrenheit). Adam wanted to return city, and visiting museums and schools—that we actually had to to study more and to see his friends. We wanted to visit Boat, Ten, and Aom and meet their families. We joined seven USC squeeze in social and family time with Boat. While hosting, we also got to know many other USC host high school students and Ron Sivillo, one of USC’s Asian Studies parents. We became a bit of an extended family as we went on faculty members, for the 36-hour trip across the Pacific. Luck joint trips to the zoo, museums, ball games, and dinners. Time was already in Thailand, ready to greet us. Her husband, Jerry, flew by and when the time came, we were very sad to see Boat kindly served as our travel guide, expertly escorting us to the and the other students leave. Through the wonders of the Inter- other side of the world. For us, the most exciting part of the trip was to reconnect net and telephone, we continue to keep in touch with our first with our three Thai sons. Adam was thrilled to see his friends, Thai son. A few months after the USC part of the exchange program, spend time with his former host parents and siblings, and to get Adam went to Thailand as one of seven USC high school students to know a new host family. We explored Thailand by touring 32
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schools, visiting the Grand Palace, seeing performances, gardens, museums, Buddhist temples, and beautiful beaches, as we learned about the culture. I also had the opportunity to meet with Thai professionals who work in my field of interest, for stimulating cross cultural exchanges. We are still digesting the experiences and savoring the friendships we developed. Everywhere we went, we were graciously welcomed and left with numerous invitations to return. The relationships we have developed as a result of the Thai-USC Student Cultural Exchange Program have expanded our family. The other side of the world now seems much more like next door. These relationships have been so positive that in the past year, we have also welcomed visitors from Germany and Israel, and served as AFS liaisons to teens from Austria and Indonesia. The Thai-USC Student Cultural Exchange Program has opened doors, windows, homes, and hearts for us all over the world. We have now begun a new academic year, and Luck once again took USC high school students to Thailand during the school’s winter break. Another group of Thai students is preparing to come to Upper St. Clair this April. If you would like to consider participating in the Thai-USC Cultural Exchange Program to serve as a host family or would like your USC high school student to participate in the next student exchange trip to Thailand, contact Luck Groves at 412-221-4816 or by email at interfacemgmtintl@comcast.net. I am sure you will find your involvement in this program to be a fulfilling experience. Sa-was-dee! (“Goodbye!” in Thai.) n
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Ron Sivillo, USCHS social studies and Asian study teacher, posed with elephants after the Nong Nooch Garden elephant shows.
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SD Locations in Upper St. Clair and South Fayette Serving Grades K-7 in Upper St. Clair, Peters Township, Bethel Park, South Fayette and surrounding districts
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Chinese Language at the High School Dr. Michael Ghilani, USC High School Principal
You may already know that Upper St. Clair High School has been offering courses in Chinese language since the 2006-07 school year. However, it wasn’t until a relationship was formed with the University of Pittsburgh and the Confucius Institute that the program gained stability and became more popular among students as well as the community. As part of this relationship, USC School District received a three-year commitment from the University of Pittsburgh to further develop its Chinese program. The University of Pittsburgh and the Confucius Institute provide a teacher, curriculum, and textbooks at no cost to the District in order to create interest in studying the Chinese language. The teacher provided by the University of Pittsburgh is a doctoral level English teacher from China, Mrs. Ping Liu. The District is fortunate to have another part-time Chinese teacher, Mrs. Lixia Kang, through funding from the Freeman Foundation and the Upper St. Clair Community Foundation. While Mrs. Kang was born and raised in Beijing, China, she currently resides in the Pittsburgh area with her husband and their four children. There are currently two classes of Chinese I and one class of Chinese II being taught at the high school by these two teachers. Mrs. Liu also teaches a Chinese exploratory class at Boyce Middle School one day a week as part of the after school enrichment program. Our teachers also offered a six-week exploratory program this past summer to any interested middle school students at no charge. In order to ensure sustainability of the program and create revenue to help support a Chinese teacher in the future, the District has been offering distance learning classes via teleconferencing equipment to schools that do not have the resources to offer a Chinese course. Currently, two courses are being offered to Greenville High School in Greenville, Pennsylvania. Recently, other school districts have contacted USC, expressing interest in the distance learning class for the Chinese program for next year. The hope is that this program will grow and that USC will be able to offer this wonderful opportunity to our students at a minimal cost to the District. n
District Strategic Plan The USCSD Strategic Plan has been an important area of focus. The six-year plan outlines the District’s mission, vision, beliefs, and goals for the years 2009 to 2014. It also details action plans for academic standards and assessment, professional development, technology, pupil services, and special education. According to Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Patrick O’Toole, “We are very thankful to the students, staff, board members, and community members who have participated in developing our ambitious plan. We look forward with excitement to the possibilities that exist for our schools as we work toward our goals.” To view the Strategic Plan, visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. n 34
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Pitt’s Mobile Bio Lab Has St. Clair Connection The Pitt Science Outreach program recently introduced a new mobile biology lab which will drive to various schools to perform real science experiments. But for Upper St. Clair High School teacher Dawn Mostowy and two of her students, Diatrah Stott and Meera Babu, the unveiling of the mobile lab held special significance. That’s because, Mostowy, Stott, and Babu are pictured on the side of the 18-wheeler. Mostowy said the photo used on the trailer was done in a professional studio, complete with make-up artists and all the trappings. Stott, a junior the high school, thought the finished product turned out really well, and was especially impressed by the interior of the mobile lab. “The equipment is really high tech.” Stott and Babu were part of Pitt’s Gene Team program, spending seven weeks over the summer doing research. Their love of science prompted them to introduce students at Eisenhower elementary to some real life science. Stott said they explained to
the students how yeast is a living thing, and is what makes bread rise; then explained how yeast could be used for research. “The kids thought it was really cool.” Mostowy commented, “I think the people in charge of the outreach program at Pitt are really in tune to what kids need.” “They know what works in the classroom,” added Mostowy, “including letting students experience hands-on inquiry and real research.” n
Special Cards at Fort Couch This past fall, Lynn Mulroy’s life skills students at Fort Couch Middle School created colorful holiday greeting cards that proved so popular that they were able to sell them to raise money for their socialization activities. Mulroy said that the cards evolved from an ongoing process where the special needs students, along with some of their regular education peers, learn new art techniques under the direction of Fort Couch’s art teacher. After using a student’s artwork as a thank you note following a social outing, Mulroy received such positive feedback about the piece that she thought, “We have all these drawings; we should be doing something with them.” Mulroy said the project has helped the students master a variety of art techniques. In addition to developing art skills, selling the cards and running a “small business” have offered many learning opportunities. Cards are put in packets assembly-line style, with students counting cards and envelopes. Teacher’s aides who work with the students do the quality assurance. Mulroy said that the students have learned how to read order forms and checks that come in with the orders, as well as how to count money before making a bank deposit and sign a bank deposit slip.
Left to right, front row: Andrew Sand, Chris Merchant, and Colin Roberts; back row: Andrea Little, teacher Lynn Mulroy, Morgan LaCotti, and Adam Taraszewski
Money raised from the sale of the cards will be used to pay for community-based teaching and instruction. Students have come up with a number of trips they would enjoy, including a trolley ride, lunch, and visits to the museum or one of Pittsburgh’s inclines. Mulroy explained that even a trip to the grocery store provides many opportunities to teach and reinforce life skills for the students. For example, a trip to the store involves preparing lists, comparing prices, and practicing reading and math skills by reviewing labels on different products. The students also work on their social skills, practicing their manners and polite behavior. n Spring 2009
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Boyce Holds Cultural Fair Denise Galloway, Spanish Teacher, Boyce Middle School On Wednesday, November 19, Boyce Middle School students had the opportunity to watch Irish dancers and a Chinese yo-yo artist, and to see a German castle. It was all part of a cultural fair in celebration of International Education Week, which took place November 1721, sponsored by the Foreign Language Department. During the fair, students visited displays from a variety of countries, including France, Venezuela, and Mexico. They were able to meet and talk with natives of these countries and many others. In addition, students were treated to a performance by the Pittsburgh Irish Reelers, and learned to do a Greek dance. As part of the International Education Week celebration, on Thursday, November 20, speakers from various backgrounds visited Boyce’s foreign language classes. In their presentations, they talked of their experiences in places as diverse as South America, Ireland, and Switzerland. The presenters showed photos, clothing, and artifacts from their travels and shared anecdotes from their time spent in other cultures.
Lydia de la Parra, in Greek apparel
International Education Week is a joint initiative of the U.S. State Department and the Department of Education. This initiative helps prepare Americans for a global environment and illustrates the benefits of student exchange programs. It also provided Boyce’s students with opportunities to see many corners of the world, and challenged them to expand their horizons and examine cultures around the world. n
ier shared Irmgarad Danieme rmany. Ge t stories abou
Sean Dixon, Mad eline Rocks, Mat tie Groninger, Vi and Elizabeth En ctoria Tepe, gel demonstrated Irish dance.
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High School International Education Week USC High School held its annual International Education Week celebration December 1-5. This year’s theme “Building Bridges to the World” was in honor of Pittsburgh’s 250th birthday. Following are some of the highlights students experienced each day:
Wednesday: Speakers Day included environmental engineers who work internationally, presentations by USCHS Kids Helping Kids students, a Pittsburgh 250 panel, a Chinese arts presentation, and a talk on Preparing to Become a Global Leader.
Monday: Students had the opportunity to learn a new language at the language tables.
Thursday: IB Day with students visiting from Schenley/Reizenstein’s IB Diploma Program.
Tuesday: Fifty-two students taking two or more foreign languages took part in a breakfast honoring their hard work and dedication.
Friday: A regional panel presentation by Pittsburgh’s World Affairs Council on “Globalization: Are You Ready?” had students considering their place on the international stage.
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Other highlights included international cookies sold by Foods students to benefit Kids Helping Kids, and the “Wall of Science” departmental display with biographies and photographs of scientists from all over the world. n
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Did You Know?
Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Campenella Se lectedKnow? Grad Did You Know? Did New to Honors Ch ng di C an on st grYou ut at ul at io ns to O ed oir hi gh Katie Ryan Nam Katie Ryan was awarded the sc C ho ol ju ni or C ampanella , for being selected Know? er Did You Know? Did You ob arol in e ct O st e at pa is du Th into the MENC ew Gra All-Eastern Hon y Outstanding N et or ci s So C ni ho n. io ir, um at Al ta uc kingKnow? 08 20 place from Did You March 12-1You ge of EdKnow? Did 5 in Providence nn State’s Colle , Rhode Island izes recent Award from Pe gn co T re he , 95 ch 19 . or us ven in w il l be co m po Know? Did Know? Did You selves in is award, first gi You se d of 35 0 Th students who inguished them st di ve re ce ha iv ho ed w top chairs at th graduates e on the basis state’s All-StYou eir Did You Did Know? lections are mad Know? ate Chorus fest s. Se a in e nc lle ival in spring ce their new career ex d 20 an 08 t en . 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Talented M u T si h ci e following st anKnow? s Did You Know? Did You udents were Music Educa selected for th tors Associat e Pennsylvan ion (PMEA)Know? High Schoo Did You Know? Did You ia District One l Orchestra Festival, wh Junior Richland Hig ic h was held h SchYou Did You Know? stDid Know? ool on Janu at Pine ring bass, gr ary 24-25: Jo ade 8, Broo seph Ardoli k e 8 no, , B K o at eh Did You Know? grDid hy Chen, vi You mer, Know? French Horn olin 1, grade , gr ad ade 9. The st e 8 , A khil Venkat ring st esh, violin 1 udents are m Did You Know? MDid You Know? S or Upper St , em bers of the F . Clair HS orc ort Couch F h re es n tr ch as H ta o u Did You Know? banDid rn player You ghKnow? t Paul Fox, an is a member d the d directed b of the Fort C y G ouch concert le n n Wayland. Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? USCHS Fall 2008 Sports Results Team Wins Losses Ties AchievementBaseball Did You Know? Did You Know? cial Advisors Future Finan m tea l oo Sch le Cross-Country (Boys) 3 4 -dd Mi uch Co rt Fo e Th Did You Know? Did You --Know? David Tsui, and Cross-Country (Girls) 0 7 of Christopher Besser, ced first in the region Field Hockey 6 5 You 1 -Did You Know? Did Know? Jonathan Wang pla n. itio pet com t rke Ma Football 6 4 -ck ll Sto Fa the in Did You Know? Did You Section Know? ,000” at the beGolf (Boys) 17 0 Champions Teams are given “$100 to nt me rna tou eek -w ten the Golf (Girls) 14 3 -Did You Know? Did You Know? ginning of t. The team with Soccer (Boys) 12 6 1 -invest in the stock marke the Did You Did You Know? at the end of Know? t rke ma the in st mo Soccer (Girls) 11 5 2 -the th
Left to right are Christopher Besser, Jonathan Wang, and David Tsui, with their coach Susan Fleckenstein, seventh and eighth grade gifted resource teacher
the winner. tournament is declared
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Tennis (Girls) Volleyball (Girls) Spring 2009
17 12
2 3
Section Champions Section Co-Champions
A Tale of Crew Pies
beautiful
Terri Sota
Remember the I Love Lucy show and the episode of Lucy and Ethel in the candy factory? As the conveyor sped up, they hurriedly looked everywhichway to store the chocolate confections–in their cheeks, their hats and, ultimately, their décolletage. On a Friday afternoon when my husband and daughter returned with the 40 frozen crew pies we’d sold, vegetable bags, pierogies, chicken breasts, and fish were flying out of our freezers as I configured and reconfigured enormous white pie boxes, utilizing every cubic foot of storage…and still the pies kept coming! After removing all the shelving in the freezer upstairs, and stashing half the pies, I saw I could add another column in front of those already stacked, if I could close the door quickly enough. Holding the precariously perched pies with my right forearm, I hooked my left foot underneath the side-byside’s door bottom, and on the count of three, yanked it forward while extracting the trailing fingers I hoped were still attached. Lucy would have been proud! Why all the bother for the first of many upcoming crew pie sale-and-delivery missions? Let’s start with the pies. If you haven’t had a Dutch apple crisp or very berry or peach praline dessert delight, you must be as new to Upper St. Clair as we were, when our doorbell rang two years ago. An enthusiastic, very-fit teen greeted us and proceeded to sing the praises of the pies: fresh fruit (no fillers), kosher (no lard), easy-bake (one hour from freezer to table), eight varieties, home delivery, and semi-annual fundraiser for the USC crew team. Eager to support our local community, I ordered two. OMG (as the kids would say)! They were absolutely delicious and comparable to any homemade variety we’d ever tasted. Priding myself on my culinary baking abilities—and guilty of judging others’ lack thereof—I was taken aback by the pies’ “wow” factor. Amidst
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the other dessert bar offerings, my cherry crew pies were standouts, eliciting many “oohs” and “yums” from my guests. USC resident Jennifer Ottino, whose crew pies were last minute additions to her Thanksgiving table, received similar kudos for her fruit-filled tarts, which upstaged other homemade favorites. It seems everyone has a pie story. USC resident Katy Vernacchia said her orthodontist was thrilled to have a new crew team patient, after losing his first to graduation. “And,” she added, “my dentist wanted one for his office party (I delivered it warm from my oven). Many cleanings later, his staff is still talking about it!” Last spring, before my oldest entered high school, I had a long conversation with Linda Plummer, our crew pie delivery mom. We’d developed a very lovely, seasonal relationship over the years. She alerted us to upcoming pie sales and knew my tastes, allergy concerns, and even vacation schedule! On her final delivery, I asked what her graduating daughter had thought of her crew experience, and about practices, competitions, and team dynamics. She praised the mentoring upperclassmen, and said the team had an inherent sense of camaraderie: the boat doesn’t move unless the kids work together! After a crew presentation at Fort Couch Middle School and a turn on the erg (rowing machine) at Community Day, my daughter became our new pie connection. As fabulous and ready-whenever the pies are, they are also the team’s major fundraiser (30% of generated income). As a USC club sport, the crew team is responsible for hefty U.S. Rowing dues, boathouse storage, and membership dues, as well as transportation, equipment, and coaching costs. According to club president Jeff Henning, the good news is that the team is growing; the not-so-good news: it needs a new $24,000 eight-person boat. That’s a heck of a lot of crew pies, and with fall sales tallied, only 4000 more to sell! Best be readying my cold storage again, and please, wherever you are in Upper St. Clair, watch for flying freezer fare! n The spring crew pie sale begins March 2009; look for details at Panther’s Path (sign) or on USC’s Channel 7. Pie-lovers may also contact Katy Vernacchia at 412-851-0878 or katyvern@comcast.net. Spring 2009
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Pawprints A USC PTA Council Highlight of Our Schools
Council PTA Council is the umbrella PTA organization in Upper St. Clair that provides leadership and coordination for all the PTAs at the individual schools (units), grades K through 8. USC PTA Council is responsible for the District-wide directory and Internet communications, among other things. By pooling resources, Council can provide better quality programming that addresses issues in parenting, education, and special needs through the Together in Parenting (TIP), Topics in Education (TIE), Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), and Partners in Education (PIE). Look for these programs throughout the year. In addition, through various committees, Council keeps the local units apprised of legislative and current issues relative to the health, safety, and education of our children.
Members of USC PTA Council, left to right, are Dr. Patrick O’Toole, second vice president; Liz Hall, first vice-president; Suzanne Garlitz, secretary; Lisa Clark, president; Julie McKenzie, treasurer; and Geralyn Austin, board adviser.
Baker Elementary On Wednesday, October 29 Baker Elementary welcomed WTAE Weather Watch to its school. Stephen Cropper and Wendy from the Carnegie Science Center led an educational and fun-filled assembly for the entire student body. Coming from the pockets of our students and staff, the Outreach Committee presented a $500 check to Mr. Cropper for a donation to the Salvation Army at the conclusion of the assembly. In the beginning of December, Baker students made a week’s worth of donations 40
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
hard work and support of the Eisenhower PTA. Throughout the year additional PTA funding is used to provide support, including Time For Kids and Weekly Reader publications for students in grades 1-4, field trips for students in all grades, grade level breakfasts and socials, and many more rich educational opportunities for Eisenhower students. PTA/PTSO unit presidents, left to right, are Lisa Burke, Streams; Sue Murphy, Eisenhower; Cherie Dixon, Fort Couch; Jen Kraskey, Boyce; and Ellen Argento, High School. (Not pictured: Liz Leavey, Baker).
to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Each day, the children brought in a designated progressive coin (pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters), and dollars were brought in at the end of the week. Thanks to the wonderful efforts of the Baker staff and students, and their generosity, Baker Elementary donated $3428 to Make-A-Wish. Eisenhower Elementary After the New Year, every Eisenhower classroom went through a transformation. With the help of the PTA, every classroom was fitted with a ceiling-mounted projector that interfaces with teacher laptops to supplement the day-to-day instruction. With this equipment, teachers are now able to project streaming video, a variety of classroom software programs, digital documents, photos, and other interactive tools to enhance instruction. Additionally, the projectors interface with two sets of classroom response systems used last school year. The responders were a cost effective way to motivate children through the use of technology and provided teachers with an assessment tool that fits with the philosophy of using daily assessments to guide instruction and provide timely, focused supports for all students. Along with the purchase of the projectors, Eisenhower will be purchasing two more sets of classroom responders, which will allow for four sets to be shared throughout the building. Eisenhower students will be the direct benefactors of the Spring 2009
Streams Elementary During these difficult times, Streams’ Outreach Committee has recently organized several charitable campaigns to help those less fortunate. In October, the shelves at SHIM were nearly bare. Streams parents Gina Steve, Cari Lackner, and Susan Rosatti organized a community food drive to restock the shelves, providing over 700 clients with the opportunity to shop for the basic necessities. Under the continued direction of the committee, students collected candy for state hospitals as well as Meals on Wheels. In December, toys were collected for “Austin’s Playroom,” located in the Upper St. Clair Emergency Department. Toys were also donated to Angel’s Place in neighboring Brookline. In January, an annual silent auction was held to benefit Heifer International, an organization that promotes self reliance and continued giving. Boyce Middle School During the holiday season, many are bombarded with the ever present consumerism that wreaks havoc through our homes and with our children. Parents struggle to keep the idea that “It is better to give than to receive” first and foremost in the hearts of our children. It is comforting to know that the importance of helping others is a lesson that is continued in our schools, and it warms the heart to see how much joy it brings to our children to know that they are helping someone who is less fortunate. At Boyce Middle School, the guidance department organizes the “Friendship Shoe Box” collection every year. Spearheaded by guidance counselors Vicki Cayuela
and Tonia Garofalo, students are asked to voluntarily fill and bring to school a shoe box of candy, games, necessities, and small clothing items. The boxes are wrapped during guidance time, and on the day of delivery, students form a human chain, stretching from the guidance office to the truck where the gifts are then loaded. Coordinated with Northwest Human Services, the gifts are delivered to the Washington County CYS, a city mission and outreach department, and a day care center in Munhall. Delivering the gifts are the guidance counselors and a randomly selected group of student volunteers. Each year approximately 600 boxes are put together and delivered, a tradition that has continued for 16 years.
they then donate to those in need. Money is collected in each homeroom every morning for approximately 13 school days. As an added incentive, a contest among teams (there are four homerooms in a team) occurs, where the highest team total collected wins a field trip to the Icoplex at Southpointe. Each year, there are stories of students donating $60 of their babysitting money or $80 of grass cutting money from their own pockets. Students encourage each other to give all that they can, and this year the school raised over $8500. Student council decides where the money will go. A large portion of it, generally $4000-$5000, is used to buy Giant Eagle gift cards that are given to the Upper St. Clair Police Department for distribution to needy USC families. For the past two years, the McMurray Giant Eagle, currently managed by Rich Snyder, generously adds an additional ten percent in gift cards. Other recipients of the Reach Out funds included Junior Partners for Thanksgiving and holiday shopping, the MS Bike-a-Thon, the Holy Family Guatemala Fund, and the Haiti project, led by French teacher Erin Lemon.
High School Spring at the high school will be busy, as usual. The first performance Fort Couch Middle School Student Council executives, left of this year’s musical, 42nd Street, was to right, are Ted Hages, eighth grade vice president; Sean held March 6. After spring break, Ketchel, seventh grade vice president; Jordan Selep, seventh grade president; and John Duffy, eighth grade president the IB art show will be on display in the rifle range, and on April 17 there will be a spring dance. During the month of May, the spring art exhibit Fort Couch Middle School Fort Couch Middle School is no strang- will be on display in the theatre lobby. er to outreach. Their many projects include Student Council elections are on May collecting toys for daycare centers and toi- 29, and finally, there are several musical letries for Haiti. The December Reach Out concerts during the first week in June. As project is a long standing tradition. Led always, check the Upper St. Clair website by Fort Couch Spanish teacher and PTA (uscsd.k12.pa.us) for changes and updates teacher representative and student liaison to scheduled events. n Connie Montgomery, this tradition has the See page 43 for USC School District calendar, students earn money by doing small jobs early March through mid-May. around the house and neighborhood that
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Upper St. Clair School District Calendar
(Early March—Mid May 2009)
All events are subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check the calendar on the School District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Legend: BA – Baker Elementary • BO – Boyce Middle • CO – Central Office • EI – Eisenhower Elementary • FC – Fort Couch Middle • HS – High School • ST – Streams Elementary Early March Mid May
6–7 8 9 10 11 12 13 13–14 14 16–27 17 18 18–21 20 21 24 25 26 27 28
HS–Musical–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Musical–2 p.m. (Theatre) BO–PTA Executive Board–1 p.m. HS–River City Brass Band–8 p.m. (Theatre) BA–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) EI–Kindergarten Social–7-8:30 p.m. ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) BO–PTA Meeting (LGI)–9:30 a.m. EI–Spring Picture Day CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (CO Board Rm) HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Musical–6:30 p.m. (Theatre) ST–2nd Grade Open Mike–9:30 a.m. ST–3rd Grade Special Night–7 p.m. (Gym and Nutrition Ctr) Half Day Early Dismissal for Students HS–AP Exam Registration Deadline EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (Theatre) HS–Musical Performance–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) HS–SAT at USC HS/FC/BO/BA/EI/ST–Grades 11, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, and 3 PSSA Reading and Math FC–PTA Meeting (MPR)–9:30 a.m. BA/EI/ST–Kindergarten Registration– 6:30-8 p.m. (Central Office) FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) HS–PTSO Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–PMEA Region Orchestra HS–Pgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra–8 p.m. (Theatre) FC–PTA Social–7-9 p.m. HS–Pops Concert BA–Variety Show Rehearsal ST–2nd Grade Special Night–7 p.m. (Gym & Nutrition Ctr) HS–Prom Fashion Show BA–Variety Show HS–Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra–7:30 p.m.
1 2
HS–Deans’ Breakfast–7:40 a.m. (LGI) FC/BO/BA/EI/ST–IB MYP 4-5 and 6-7 Grade Parent Meeting–7 p.m. (BO LGI) BO–PTA Council Meeting–9:30 a.m. CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) EI–PTA Executive Board–9:45 a.m. ST–PTA Executive Board–9:30 a.m.
April
3 6–10 13 14 14–24 15 16 17 17–19 18 20 20–24 21 22 22–25 23 24 25 26 27 27–30 28–29 30
Teacher Inservice No School–Spring Recess Teacher Inservice BO–PTA Executive Board–1 p.m. ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–IB Art Show (Rifle Range) HS–PTSO Meeting–9:30 a.m. BO–Band Rehearsal–1-4 p.m. (HS Theatre) BO–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) FC–Open House or other Educational Event Early Dismissal–1:10 p.m. (Tentative) BO–Band Concert–7 p.m. (HS Theatre) HS–Spring Dance HS–AP Exam Pre–Administration Session for All Test Takers EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Dance Competition (Theatre) BO–Deer Valley Meetings: General Meeting–9-10 a.m. Training Session–10 a.m.-noon BO–Chorus Rehearsal (HS Theatre) BA/EI/ST–Grades 1 and 2 Terra Nova/TCS FC–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (MPR) BO–Chorus Concert–9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. (Theatre) FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) BO–Open House or other Educational Event Early Dismissal–1:15 p.m. (Tentative) HS–PMEA All–State Conference HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS/FC/BO–Jazz Fest III Rehearsal (Theatre) HS/FC/BO–Jazz Fest III Concert–7 p.m. (Theatre) BO–Open Mike (LGI)–9:30 a.m. FC–PTA Social–7-9 p.m. BO–5th Grade NASA ST–Arbor Day HS–Pgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra–8 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Atlantic Ballet (Theatre) BO–5th Grade NASA BO–Deer Valley Begins HS/FC/BA/EI/ST–Grades 11, 8, & 4 PSSA Science Window HS–Cap/Gown Delivery HS–Marching Band and Pantheon Trip
Spring 2009
1 HS/FC/BA/EI/ST–Grades 11, 8, & 4 PSSA Science Window EI–PTA Executive Board–9:45 a.m. 1–2 HS–Marching Band and Pantheon Trip 3 HS–Atlantic Dance (Theatre) 4 FC–Musical Rehearsal–1-4 p.m. (Theatre) BA–Book Fair Set–Up 4–8 HS/FC/BA/EI/ST–Grades 11, 8, & 4 PSSA Science Window BA–Teacher Appreciation Week EI–Staff Appreciation Week 4–15 HS–Spring Art Exhibit (Theatre Lobby) HS–AP Testing 5 HS–River City Brass Band–8 p.m. (Theatre) BA–Book Fair Preview ST–PTA Executive Board–9:30 a.m. (LGI) 5–7 EI–Book Fair 6 FC–Chorus Concert–9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. (Theatre) CO–PTA Council Changeover Meeting/Luncheon–9:30 a.m. 6–7 BA–Book Fair–9 a.m.-3 p.m. 7 BA/EI/ST–Open Houses or Other Educational Events/Early Dismissal–12:45 p.m. 8 BO–5th Grade NASA 11 BO–PTA Executive Board–1 p.m. 11–12 FC–Band Rehearsal–1-4 p.m. (HS Theatre) BO–5th Grade NASA 11–15 FC/BA/EI/ST–Grades 7 and 4 Terra Nova/TCS 12 FC–Band Concert–7:30 p.m. (HS Theatre) BA–PTA/Changeover Meeting/Luncheon–9:30 a.m. ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. 13 HS–Deans’ Breakfast–7:40 a.m. (LGI) BO–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) ST–PTA Teacher Appreciation Luncheon CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) 13–15 HS–Mini Band Camp 14 BA/EI/ST–Musicals 14–15 BO–Civil War Day 15 FC–PTA Appreciation Luncheon–11:20 a.m. (Library) BO–5th Grade NASA BO–Deer Valley Ends EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. ST–4th Grade Graduation Party–6-8:30 p.m. (HS Small Gym/Pool/Nutrition Center) 16 Community Day HS–Pgh Civic Orchestra Concert–7:30 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAYp.m. (Theatre) 43
www.clarkremodeling.com
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Dave Boehmer, Boehmer Heating and Cooling
According to the EPA, the air inside the average home is up to five times more polluted than the air outside. Pollen, dust mites, dirt, and mold spores in your home’s air can cause minor health problems, including eye and nose irritation, dizziness, and headaches. Indoor air pollution can also cause more serious problems like respiratory illness, as well as aggravate allergies and asthma. There are three ways to improve the air quality in your home. Source Control: Eliminate many pollutants like dust and pet dander by careful household cleaning. Making sure that heating and air conditioning systems are well-maintained also helps to remove pollutants before they reach your home. Cleaning air duct systems may be helpful in keeping your systems maintained. Improved Ventilation: Decrease the concentration of indoor pollutants by increasing the quantity of air circulating. Use your furnace’s filter more effectively by turning the fan “on.” The addition of whole-house ventilators, which connect to your heating and cooling system, can also bring fresh air into your home and exhaust stale air. Air Cleaners: Well-maintained and efficient air cleaners can significantly lower the amount of pollutants in the air. Their usefulness varies considerably depending on the type of cleaner (table-top models will probably be less effective than a whole-house system) and on the strength of the indoor pollution source. n 44
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See ad on this page.
Spring 2009
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Not Just Another Pretty Face— Beyond Cosmetics of Home Remodeling Regis MeQuaide, CGR, CBA, Master Remodelers
Springtime often brings “do-ityourself” projects that can make a big difference in the appearance of your home. If you’re only putting a little “lipstick” on your house, you may not need a remodeling contractor. One difference that professional, certified contractors bring to bigger remodeling jobs is years of experience, skill, and knowledge. Here’s what we think is important today in the business of remodeling and “advancing the art and science of living.” Beauty: A good remodeler will listen closely to what you want for the new look and feel of your home. An on-staff designer can help to assure a close synergy between your artistic vision and dream and the communication of precise details during construction. Comfort: In addition to the look and feel of your new plan, think about how your home performs during the extreme temperatures of summer and winter. Remodeling is a great time to eliminate drafts and hot and cold spots as well as to make every room in your home comfortable year round, while reducing your carbon footprint.
Efficiency: Related to comfort is energy efficiency—a part of the “science” of home remodeling. With a home energy audit and careful planning, your home can be both beautiful and efficient, saving you hundreds of dollars annually on water, electricity, and gas bills. Of course, efficiency also has to do with the flow of your space and how well they enhance your lifestyle. Q u a l i t y : I t ’s also important that Before the materials and craftsmanship of remodeling are durable and sustainable (for the environment). A job that looks slipshod or unravels in a few years is an expensive investment mistake, one which will have to be redone in the future. Affordability: The delicate balance between your dream and your budget is best achieved in the design and planning phases rather than during construction. To eliminate costly surprises, plan and budget carefully.
If you’re interested in more than cosmetic improvements for your home, it’s wise to talk with a professional who knows both the art and science of remodeling. n
After
Century old church in Union, Washington County, transformed to an award-winning cozy, accessible, green, and efficient home. See photo of home’s exterior on Table of Contents, page 5.
Regis McQuaide, president of Master Remodelers, and his crews have served homeowners for more than 20 years, providing a wide variety of services. See ad on this page.
It's time to make smart investments in your home. Find out how your remodeling can be beautiful, efficient and a wise decision.
Winner of 3 remodeling awards in 2008
Regis McQuaide President, CGR, CBA
412·341·6585
www·MasterRemodelersInc· com
Get the synergy of DESIGN and BUILD in one company. Now certified to deliver whole-house energy savings. 46
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Trust Us to make your home safe
1-888-55-FERRY Licensed • Insured • Guaranteed • 24 Hr. service
412-650-5579
• Service Calls & Troubleshooting • Remodeling Projects • Landscape Lighting • Computer Lines • Security Lighting •Standby Generators
• Motion Detectors • Lighting Design • Recessed Lights • Surge Protection • Circuit Breaker Panels • Ceiling Fans • New Circuits
www.ferryelectric.com
Trusted for over 80 years
Spring 2009
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Plan Value into Your Deck Patrick Henry Nicholson, CR, CEO, Deckmasters Technologies Incorporated Designing a deck is a pleasure
RETAINING WALLS Block • Stone • Timber
All Work Guaranteed For 5 Years
20 Years of Professional Experience
William “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc.
724-348-4476 48
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
for a true artist, but creating a project that will complement your home and achieve your needs within a specific budget takes more than artistry. It requires a professional with experience in what I call “value planning.” What do I mean by value planning? Developing a great design is a concert between the customer and the designer, a blended mix of utilitarian needs and artistic tastes that come about when the customer and the designer fling new concepts into the project stewpot, stir the broth, and cook it down into a delectable ragout. So how do you prepare for such delight? Professional designing requires both time and preparation. The best way to prepare is to conceptualize various ideas, challenge your designer with those ideas, then get ready to allow your imagination to soar. The use of cascading multi-levels or sunken octagons will create “private spaces.” Retaining walls, planned in conjunction with on-grade decks, can hide awkward hillsides and naturally complement the areas around your deck with gardens of flowers. You also can use flower boxes, tables, or benches for attractive built-in convenience, and decorative gates or privacy panels to block out unsightly surroundings. Staircases, box steps, or step landings will not only complement a deck design, but can also be a consequential egress for both family safety and backyard access. Barbecue grills, custom outdoor kitchens, built-in stone fire pits, or hot tubs, all with proper design engineering, can add value to a great deck design for both fun and functional utilization. Under-deck protected levels, storage areas, or carports below decks can also add serviceability. Sun-structures such as gazebos, trellis, pergolas, or Mexican blinds allow cozy comfort areas and porch roofs, patio covers, and screening panels can add practical protection from foul weather, sun, or insects. Lighting, for safety and security, Spring 2009
can be planned into the original design or designed as you go. Last, but not least, is the consideration of the material products from which modern decks are being built. Traditional pressure treated wood remains a big favorite due to its natural look and its favorable price. The newer lower maintenance products in the industry, such as plastics, vinyls, and composites are growing in popularity as their improved, “somewhat natural” appearances are becoming more acceptable. Pricing of these products is a little on the high side, and must be an important consideration in your investment decision. Patio decks are one of the highest home resale values in the American marketplace today and, if properly planned and budgeted, can be a very rewarding addition to your home and to a your lifestyle. Gracefully bridging the transition from your home’s interior space to your home’s backyard will fashionably invite the great outdoors into your life. n
See ad on page 49.
Spring 2009
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Decking—More Choices Today Than Ever Before Pat Ridge, Brookside Lumber Company
Just when you think it can’t get any better…
it gets better! First there was wood decking… then came the birth of composite decking (a mixture of plastic and wood fibers)... and now vinyl decking has become a player in the market. Within each category there are many options of colors, textures, and grains. One thing is for sure, whether you are the contractor or homeowner, it is important to eduate yourself on each manufacturer’s features and benefits. You will find that when comparing deck surfaces, there are as many differences as there are similarities. Composite decking is a relatively new category that has emerged over the past few years. Today, there are many great choices of deck products available to replace the old, worn, wood deck surfaces of yesteryear. Composites offer a great look with no painting or staining required. They will not rot, splinter, or check over time, as wood surfaces can do. Most composites are a mix of wood flour and plastic. The source of the raw material used in the manufacturing process plays an important role in the end product. Not all plastics are created equal. The material used can be a high (HDPE) or low density (LDPE) polyethylene, or another type of plastic. The plastic can also be virgin recycled, such as unused milk jugs or reclaimed plastic such as recycled grocery bags or pallet wrap. The wood
Marvin creates the windows and doors to perfectly match your home and reflect your style. With Marvin’s variety of colors and profiles, your inspiration is not limited by shape, size or style. Marvin products are built with furniture-grade craftsmanship. With more energy efficiency, more durability, and more options you’ll see a little more of you in your windows and doors.
500 Logan Road Bethel Park, PA 15102
(412) 341-3600 (412) 835-7610 50
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flour can be softwoods, hardwoods (specifically oak or maple), or a mix of wood species and sawdusts. The percentage of wood flour to plastic can vary from a 50/50 mix to more or less in either direction. These differences will change how the end product reacts to the weather, sun, and temperature year round. Vinyl decking offers a cooler deck surface to the touch as well as eliminates most staining situations. Spilled wine, fruit punch, even hamburger grease are no match for most vinyl deck surfaces. With a minimal amount of maintenance, your vinyl deck will continue to look great for years to come. When it comes to aesthetics, there is a significant variety of deck products being offered, creating endless possibilities. You can choose a smooth, brushed texture; a ruddy, rough texture; or anything in between. If you compare all the manufacturers’ products, there are almost as many colors available as you would find in a crayon box. Generally speaking, all manufacturers offer colors to complement your home’s motif. Shades of grays, reds (brown), and yellows (tan) are the most popular colors of the product being sold today. Color coordinated hand rail and balusters are typically available and can be mixed or matched to create the look you want. Another popular alternative for deck railing is a white vinyl that complements all the composite colors and matches white windows and house trim that is often used on homes in this area. Composite and vinyl decking are often referred to as “maintenance free” or “low maintenance” products, but any product that is installed outside will need some attention on a regular basis. Dirt, rain, sun, leaves, and other natural debris all leave “footprints” on any flat surface. These deck surfaces are no different. Composites stay beautiful long after the initial installation, but require regular cleaning. Mold and mildew are common enemies of composite decking. Periodic cleaning with the proper deck cleaner will prevent the buildup of these eyesores. Vinyl decking is easily cleaned and resists most stains, but comes at a higher initial cost. When installing either product, proper spacing between the deck boards is critical. This allows drainage and prevents the build-up of mold and mildew-friendly water pools. Most composite and vinyl decking are backed by a limited warranty. This gives you years of worry-free enjoyment while creating a tasteful and elegant outdoor space. Decks have become something more than a place to relax and entertain guests. Decks have become additional “living space” to accentuate the beauty of your home. Educate yourself before making a final decision so you can enjoy your new deck for years to come. n See ad on this page.
Make Your Home Your Haven Cathy Davin, Davin Interiors LLC
During these unsettling times, a home that is a restoring haven from the outside world is true luxury. A home that expresses your personality and lifestyle will lift your spirits and enhance the quality of each day for you and your family. With all the doom and gloom in the daily media, home is more important than ever. So give yourself a break from the distressing news, and make the design of your home a priority! Many family rooms in Upper St. Clair were designed for older style televisions and electronic equipment. We find many USC homeowners who want to recreate the family room to better accommodate today’s electronics and lifestyles. For example, we no longer feel the need to “hide” the television in a cabinet. Today, we simply enjoy seeing it in the room. Family rooms often have large windows, many openings, fireplaces, and/or limited space that make them tricky to layout. But without the large traditional TV cabinet in the room, new options for furniture layout arise. I’m sure you will find a change in your new family room “look” to be exciting and elevating! Television prices are attractive now, too, so it’s a great time to make the change. The master bedroom or master bedroom suite is another area where many homeowners are looking to update. Many people are looking for a peaceful retreat-like atmosphere in the master bedroom. These days, bedroom decorating uses soft color, clean
lines, little pattern but lots of texture, and less fussy detail in bedding, flooring, and window treatments. If you don’t want to take on an entire re-do at this time, simply dressing your bed in beautiful new sheets and pillows will give you a lift. I’ve said it before, and it bears repeating; many of us have “too much stuff” cluttering our homes. (I’m as guilty as anyone!) Consider displaying one substantial and wonderful accessory instead of multiple non-descript accessories. Try rotating your art or accessories—perhaps seasonally—rather than displaying everything at once. Leave only what you use and what you love. By removing “stuff,” you will feel that your surroundings are more spacious and enjoyable. Now, more than ever, it’s a great time to create a home that lifts your spirit. Make the effort; it’s a luxury you’ll enjoy everyday! n Davin Interiors LLC is located in Upper St. Clair’s Pinebridge Commons. See ad on this page. Spring 2009
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Township of Upper St. Clair Ched Mertz
President, Ward 4 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3631 2009*
Karen M. McElhinny
Vice President, At-Large
Township News
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1732 2009*
Preston W. Shimer
Meet Scott Brilhart
Upper St. Clair’s newest addition to the Department of Planning and Community Development is director Scott Brilhart. A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in regional planning and geography, Scott started his career as a planner in Lower Paxton Township near Harrisburg. From Lower Paxton, Scott went to Peters Township’s planning department, working there for three years. He then took a job as Moon Township’s assistant manager and planning director, a position he held for seven years before coming to USC. Scott and his wife, Cindy, make their home in Moon Township with their daughters, Emma, four, and Lauren, two. n
Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2011*
Kenneth L. Brown Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-4512 2009*
Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2011*
Russell R. Del Re Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-3336 2011*
Glenn R. Dandoy At-Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-6243 2011*
Meet Ryan McCleaster The newest member of Upper St. Clair’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is assistant director Ryan McCleaster. Ryan’s background is in athletics and fitness, working most recently as the director of operations for the Wilred R. Cameron Wellness Center of the Washington Hospital. Before working at the wellness center, Ryan was the athletic director for the Pittsburgh Athletic Association and also worked in the athletic department at the University of Pittsburgh and Robert Morris University. Stating that he is looking forward to working with the community to get the new Community Recreation Center (CRC) up and running, Ryan said he wants the Township to be in the forefront of recreation in Western Pennsylvania. Ryan’s background is well suited for his new position, where he will oversee day-to-day operations throughout the new CRC, with primary oversight of the sales systems and facility standards, facility management, and supervision of a staff
of more than 25 full-time and part-time employees. Originally from Ohio, Ryan graduated from Bowling Green State University with a BS in education. He earned his MS in instructional leadership with a concentration in sports management from Robert Morris University. Ryan and his wife, Angel, make their home in Robinson Township with their daughter, Sterling, two, and son, Baylin, one. n
2009 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room.
• The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.
• The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December.
• The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m.
• The Civil Hearing Board meets as needed.
• The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.
Visit the Township’s website www.twpusc.org
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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T
Highlights of Board of Commissioners Meetings September 2, 2008
November 3, 2008
Approximately 7 people attended.
Approximately 4 people attended.
The Board • Adopted Bill No. 21-08 amending Chapter 99 of the Township Code entitled “Public and Private Improvements” to update the acceptable forms of security. • Adopted Bill No. 22-08 re. PLC08-008–St. Clair Plaza expansion revised, amended final approval nonresidential planned development–1121 Boyce Road. • Adopted Bill No. 23-08 to amend Chapter 57 of the Township Code entitled “Fees” to amend library fees and fines to add a fee for flash drives, specify “replacement cost” for all lost or damaged items, and simplify existing charges by identifying only the exceptions to default fees for both adult and juvenile items. Board Approval of Contracts • Sunesys, LLC, Warrington.................................... $57,499 (Plus $200 monthly for pole rental and maintenance) Installation of telecommunications fiber link connection between the Township building and Boyce Mayview Park Community Recreation Center • Curran Taylor, Inc., Canonsburg..................... $37,581.38 Appliances for Boyce Mayview Park Community Recreation Center • Advanticom, Pittsburgh................................... $39,417.08 Township’s phone system upgrade
The Board • Continued public hearing re: PLC08-0007–Imagines Restaurant outdoor dining–631 Painters Run Road-Final Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ next regular meeting on December 1, 2008. Board Approval of Contracts • Advantage Sport & Fitness, Camp Hill. ....$660.43/month for 36 months Lease of 4 Expresso Interactive Bikes through CO-STARS PA State Contract • G & G Fitness, Henrietta, NY........... $5,121/month for 36 months Lease of 25 cardio equipment pieces through CO-STARS PA State Contract • G & G Fitness, Henrietta, NY..........$9,340 for 36 months Extended warranty for 25 leased pieces of cardio equipment • G & G Fitness, Henrietta, NY........................ $121,533.40 Purchase (initial capital cost) of 74 pieces of strength equipment through CO-STARS PA State Contract • Davey Tree Expert Company, Gibsonia......$40,720/year + 3% Fuel Surcharge Category 07, pesticide contract for spraying all Turf areas throughout the Township • Allegheny Power, Greensburg. ........................ $30,383.33 Relocation of existing overhead utility lines along Mayview Road • El Grande Industries, Inc., Monessen. ................. $50,000 Segment of Morrow Road for paving • Haughey & Sons, McKeesport.............................. $30,084 Change Order for upsize of water service to PW Annex Building from 6" to 8" • Waste Management, Pittsburgh...............As priced below: Five (5) year contract for refuse/recycling Collection Standard Collection Automated Collection Year Cost Cost 2009 $1,081,725 2010 $1,125,600 2011 $1,170,375 $1,131,150 2012 $1,216,575 $1,176,450 2013 $1,265,850 $1,224,075
October 6, 2008
Approximately 10 people attended.
Recognitions and Proclamations • Commissioner Shimer presented each of the following members of the Volunteer Fire Department with Certificates of Appreciation, recognizing their years of service: Donald De Leo, 35 years; Daniel Ferguson, 30 years; Gerald Kopach, Jr., 25 years; Dennis Herisko, 10 years; Drew Gerlach, 10 years; Michael Moore, 5 years; Jon Stuver, 5 years • Commissioner Shimer presented a proclamation designating October 5-11, 2008, as Fire Prevention Week in Upper St. Clair. Steve Moore, Chief of the Volunteer Fire Department, was present to receive the proclamation. • Township Manager Matthew Serakowski presented the Volunteer Fire Department with a check in the amount of $175,372.84 distributed from the 2008 State Allocation. The Board • Continued public hearing re. PLC08-0007–Imagines Restaurant outdoor dining–631 Painters Run Road– Conditional Use Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ regular meeting on November 3, 2008. • Adopted Bill No. 24-08 amending the Table of Contents, Part III, General Legislation of the Code of the Township, to renumber Chapter 52, “Property Maintenance Code,” as Chapter 98. • Adopted Bill No. 25-08 accepting the sanitary sewer extension as a public improvement of 1406 Lattidome Drive–Lot 202 Hardy plan of lots No. 2.
November 10, 2008
Special Meeting. No public in attendance.
The Board • Approved real estate tax increase from 2.6 to 3.4 mills.
December 1, 2008
Approximately 10 people attended.
Recognitions and Proclamations • Commissioner Shimer presented a Certificate of Achievement to Colleen Miles for being the recipient of the 2008 New Librarian Honors Award that is presented by the Pennsylvania Library Association. He also congratulated Colleen on developing a Teen Volunteer program which currently has over 75 participants. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 26-08 granting final approval of Imagines Restaurant Outdoor Dining–Conditional Use Approval– 631 Painters Run Road. • Adopted Bill No. 27-08 re. IMP08-0004–acceptance of public improvement–Deerfield Manor Plan #9 revised. • Adopted Bill No. 28-08 granting approval of the 2009 Annual Budget. Board Approval of Contracts • Glassmere Fuel Service, Inc., Tarentum...........OPIS Daily Pittsburgh Average Index Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Plus Fixed Margin of .0698/gallon • W. A. Petrakis Contracting Company, Monroeville........................................................ $ 406,330 2009 Sanitary Sewer Operation and Maintenance Program Option Year 1 $ 429,716.50 Option Year 2 $ 453,556.50 Option Year 3 $ 468,071.50 • USDA Wildlife Services, Raleigh, NC..........Not to Exceed $37,500 Special Use Culling Permit/Prescribed Activities
Members of the USC VFD are recognized at a Township Board of Commissioners meeting by Commissioner Shimer.
All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000. Spring 2009
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T 2009 Budget Highlights General Fund Budget Overview In preparation for the 2009 Budget, the Township Finance Department personnel developed a new approach concerning budget requests from each Township department. In prior years, department heads submitted initial budget requests to the Finance Department and using these requests together with current year expenditure data, developed the Proposed Budget. This year, to provide more focus to the process the Finance Department developed departmental budget worksheets featuring trend analysis and inflation statistics. Township department heads responded with an acknowledgement of the projections or a justification for a change in a budgetary number. After preparing necessary changes, finance personnel met again with each department to discuss both operating and capital budget requests. This process gave the Finance Department the ability to reduce the 2009 Operating Budget for the General Fund by .09% from the 2008 Operating Budget. Where the Money Comes From The 2009 major operating revenues include real estate tax and earned income tax. Other taxes include real estate transfer tax, public utilities tax, sales and use tax, and local services tax. The balance of operating revenue comprises licenses and permits, fines, fees, rental and service agreements, investment earnings, recreation fees, and other non-tax revenue. As planned with the original approval and financing of the Community Recreation Center, a real estate tax increase had been proposed for the 2009 Budget to cover the debt service and common area expenses of the facility. As originally projected, the increase was forecasted at .95 mills. However, with the work of the Township staff and Board of Commissioners through the Budget and Finance Committee, the planned increase was reduced to .80 mills. This was accomplished in a fiscal environment that saw unprecedented increases in refuse costs (31%), along with increases in healthcare costs and fuel prices over the previous years. General Fund revenues are projected to increase from $15,540,092 budgeted for 2008 to $16,432,448 for 2009. This projected increase is mostly due to an increase of the real estate tax rate to 3.40 mills. The earned income tax rate will stay at 0.80%.
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For more information see www.twpusc.org. Where the Money Goes The 2009 operating expenditures will decrease from 2008 budget amounts of $13,282,079 to $13,270,190. Public Safety, which includes police, the volunteer fire department, animal control, and public works is the largest component of the operating expenditures, representing 65.7% of the Operating Budget. The remaining difference of projected revenues over operating expenses of $3,162,258 will be used to fund the Debt Service Costs for 2009 of $1,258,762 and the following transfers: Capital Projects Fund..........................................$ 216,073 Boyce Mayview Park RAD Fund................................199,603 Boyce Mayview Park CRC Fund ............................1,487,820 Total Transfers......................................................$ 1,903,496 The Debt Service Costs for the construction of the CRC are shown in the Boyce Mayview CRC Fund and are funded through a transfer from the General Fund. Operating Expenditures Summary General Fund operating expenditures have decreased by $11,889 or 0.09%. This has occurred through a combination of the following reasons: • Fulltime personnel salary and wage increases were projected at 3.5%. • Health Insurance costs were budgeted to increase by 5%. • The pension minimum municipal obligations (MMOs) for the police and public works employees remain substantially the same as 2007 due to good investment performance by both pension plans, as of the last state mandated reporting period (January 1, 2007). • Total refuse collection costs were budgeted to increase by 31% based on recent bids received by SHACOG. • Recreation program and administrative costs have decreased by $267,407 or 36.11% due to the reassignment of costs applicable to the Community Recreation Center. • General government expenditures decreased $184,528 or 11.32% due to costs associated with the retirement of the former Township manager in 2008. • Other costs and materials have been budgeted to increase at or below the CPI rate. The 2009 Budget will maintain the General Fund Balance at a level necessary for the Township to maintain its AA+ bond rating. n
T
Sanitary Sewer Fund
Capital Projects Fund
Major Revenues Major revenues for this fund are derived from user fees calculated as a percentage of each resident’s ALCOSAN charge. For 2009, Finance Department personnel recommends that the multiplier be increased from 1.85 to 2.15 because ALCOSAN raised its rates by 16% and to account for the effects of the “Winter Averaging” program.
Major Revenues The bulk of revenues for 2009 come from an operating transfer from the General Fund of $216,073. Interest earned for 2009 is budgeted at $41,000. Major Expenses
Major Expenses 1. Personal services represent 6.17% of this budget and decreased by $50,564 due to a revised allocation of human resources to this fund and related fringe benefit cost. 2. Sewage processing fees from the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority (ALCOSAN) represent 52.95% of the Annual Budget. The multiplier used to calculate the fee will increase from 1.85 to 2.15 due to a rate increase of 16% from ALCOSAN for 2009. 3. The debt service payment for 2009 increased from $755,695 in 2008 to $895,420 due to the additional borrowing of $5,360,000 with the 2008 Bond Issue. The Fund Balance at the end of 2009 is projected to be $520,660. 4. Corrective Action Plan—$600,000 has been allocated to carry on the DEP and EPA mandated repair and reconstruction of sewer lines. 5. The Township is currently proceeding with work mandated The bulk of the fund balance, which is estimated to be under the consent order with the EPA and DEP. Bond pro- $1,533,113 at the end of 2008, will be used to fund a portion ceeds amounting to $7,350,000 from the 2003 Bond Issue, of the annual paving program and various other street related $3,800,000 from the 2007 Bond Issue, and $5,360,000 from the projects for 2009. n 2008 Bond Issue were allocated to be spent for this purpose. These activities are not reflected in the Sanitary Sewer Fund. The Debt Service payment referred to under item #3 for the borrowed amount for this activity is paid for from this fund. n
2008 and 2009 General Fund Budget Major Revenue Sources 2008 Budget Real Estate Tax $4,294,440 Earned Income Tax 7,672,975 Community Services Tax 235,000 Real Estate Transfer Tax 850,000 Public Utilities Tax 19,000 Local Option Sales & Use Tax 305,000 Licenses and Permits 125,150 Fees and Fines 366,700 Rental Income 70,900 Investment Earnings 150,000 Service Agreements 284,030 Other Non-Tax Revenue 618,200 Recreation Fees 384,197 Fund Reserve 164,500
General Fund Appropriations by Major Programs
2009 Increase Budget (Decrease) $5,576,771 $1,282,331 7,370,000 (302,975)
% Change 29.86% -3.95%
300,000
65,000
27.66%
900,000 19,000
50,000 -
5.88% 0.00%
310,000 132,550 394,700 74,450 125,000 169,817
5,000 7,400 28,000 3,550 (25,000) (114,213)
1.64% 5.91% 7.64% 5.01% -16.67% -40.21%
711,000 92,800 15.01% 349,160 (35,037) -9.12% - (164,500) -100.00%
Total Revenues $15,540,092 $16,432,448 $892,356
5.74%
2008 Budget General Government Public Safety Community Development Public Works Refuse Collection Recreation and Leisure Services Library Unallocated Insurance Costs Total Operating Expenditures
$1,630,589 4,504,095
Increase % (Decrease) Change
$1,446,061 $(184,528) -11.32% 4,639,011 134,916 3.00%
612,799 4,088,145 860,700
675,433 4,079,910 1,128,725
62,634 (8,235) 268,025
10.22% -0.20% 31.14%
740,615 793,146
473,208 776,437
(267,407) (16,709)
-36.11% -2.11%
51,990
51,405
(585)
-1.13%
$13,282,079 $13,270,190 $(11,889)
-0.09%
Capital Improvements Debt Service Payments Sub Total Total Appropriations
2009 Budget
1,253,493 1,004,520 2,258,013
1,903,496 1,258,762 3,162,258
650,003 254,242 904,245
51.86% 25.31% 40.05%
$15,540,092 $16,432,448 $892,356
5.74%
Continued on page 71 Spring 2009
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… the winter of 2010 is nearing its end and the CRC has been up and running for over one year. This is the story of a woman whose life had been changed by an experience, one that she will appreciate for years to come.
It had been a long and blustery winter. The sky was grey, with trees dusted by yet another snow fall. Although I was bundled up to my neck, the chill that Saturday morning made it more challenging to continue my daily routine. I quickly grabbed my keys and workout bag, and off into the cold I went. Arriving at the Community Recreation Center about 11 a.m., much later than normal, the staff greeted me as if I was one of the family, inquiring if everything was alright because I was late. They each knew my name, the names of my family members, and what I enjoyed. But most of all, they made me feel comfortable. Since becoming a member about a year ago, I have been a loyal early morning visitor and haven’t missed a day yet! Swimming was my hobby, followed by a walk around the indoor track and playing cards with my friends in the Senior Lounge on occasion. Some days I would even venture out to the fitness area to work on strength training with the CRC’s personal trainer. After placing my bag in the locker room, I strolled over to the lap pool and began my 30-minute swim. Backstroke was most enjoyable. I was a champion swimmer in my younger days and still pushed to keep close to my record times, although arthritis did not make it easy. Just before noon, I sat aside the pool to cool down for a minute.
Smarter Live
Laughter from the children splashing in the leisure pool echoed through the center and seemed almost contagious at times. From the corner of my eye I noticed a group of teenagers walking into one of the poolside party rooms, a young girl with a flashing birthday pin on—her smile, as big as it could be. I even heard the chatter from a group of women I play cards with a few afternoons a week. They were enjoying water aerobics and an aquatic fitness class in the resistance pool. I was in awe, since I hadn’t noticed all of the activities before. I usually preferred a quiet morning swim and workout, but today was different. By arriving just a bit later than usual and taking one moment from my busy day, I saw how each individual was enjoying his or her membership. The energy throughout the center was remarkable. I now realized how important the Community Recreation Center had become to our community, changing others’ lives as it did mine. The fees instantly became minimal in comparison to creating a safe place that all ages can enjoy, resulting in laughter and healthier lifestyles. It was a day I will never forget. Now, I look forward to going every Saturday—around noon! n
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Four lane lap pool, recreational pool with zero depth entry, slides, interactive water gadgets, resistance pool with underwater benches and vortex.
Outdoor
Three lap lanes, slides, lily pads, interactive water structure, covered pavilions, grassy lawn area for lounging.
State of the Art Fitness
Equipment supplied by Hammer Strength MTS, Life Fitness and Expresso Bikes which offers Interactive touch screens, iPod and USB capability, virtual trainers and more!
On-site rentable rooms
Celebrate birthdays in poolside party rooms or social functions in the well-designed community room.
Boyce Mayview Park
Experience an entire day of recreation throughout 475 acres. Park and play all day!
Call to learn more about becoming a member and the Member for a Day events. Community Recreation Center 1551 Mayview Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.831.9000 ext. 207
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USC Community Recreation Center Celebrates First Success—the Founder’s Club
O f f e r e d t h i s F e b r u a r y for a limited time, the new Community Recreation Center announced an opportunity to become one of the first CRC members by joining the Founder’s Club. A group of local visionaries who have been eager for the CRC grand opening, Founder’s Club members continue to support and promote the center to family, friends, and the community. Ched Mertz, president of the USC Board of Commissioners, was recognized as the first CRC member on February 9, and his membership was followed by those of many residents as well as residents of surrounding communities.
“The success of pre-sale memberships and excitement that the community has created is a remarkable inception to the CRC; we could not have asked for more from the community,” stated Paul Besterman, director of Recreation and Leisure Services. Members of the Founder’s Club will forever be recognized on the Founder’s plaque within the CRC, and will be invited to special events, their own personal grand opening, and be eligible for incentives like Founder’s Bucks and one party room rental. (Conditions apply.) n
CRC Membership Fees
cell:
A variety of memberships are available at the Community Recreation Center, and a few sample membership options are listed below. Residents of Upper St. Clair receive a discounted membership fee as well as continued discounts on recreational programs. USC Resident Discount Annual Indoor Membership Adult.............................................................................................................. $367 Family............................................................................................................ $660 Senior............................................................................................................. $257 USC Resident Discount Combined Membership (includes Outdoor Pool) Adult.............................................................................................................. $459 Family............................................................................................................ $810 Senior............................................................................................................. $334
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coordinator, at 412-831-9000, extension 207 or by attending the upcoming Member For a Day events. The schedule of events information may also be viewed online at www.twpusc.org/rec. n See ad and related article on page 56. Spring 2009
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Community Development
Flood Protection
Flooding and other surface drainage problems can occur well away from a river, lake, or ocean. When you are looking at a property, it is always a good idea to check possible flood hazards. Be aware: • The force of moving water or waves can destroy a building. • Slow moving floodwaters are forceful enough to knock people off their feet or to float a car. • Water-soaked contents, such as carpeting, upholstered furniture, and mattresses often suffer irreparable damage and may have to be disposed of after a flood. • Some items, such as photographs and heirlooms, may never be restored to their original conditions.
Municipal Building, can provide more information, such as depth of flooding above a building’s first floor, location of floodplains, past flood problems in the area, and tips on how to select a contractor. For your safety, Upper St. Clair regulates all construction and development in floodplains to ensure that buildings will be protected from flood damage.
What You Can Do
The Township’s efforts depend on your cooperation and assistance. Here is how you can help: • Do not dump debris of any kind into creeks, ditches, ravines, or streams. Dumping is a violation of Chapter 83 of the Township Code. Even grass clippings and
If you see building or filling without a Township permit posted, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at 412-831-9000.
Flood Insurance
If you do not have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Homeowners’ insurance policies typically do not cover damage from floods. However, because the Township of Upper St. Clair participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, local residents can purchase a separate flood insurance policy. The Township has received a lower rating of an eight out of ten, which provides for a ten percent reduction in insurance. It is backed by the federal government and is available to all residents, even for property outside of a floodplain. Any property is subject to flooding. Surface water can accumulate from heavy rain, melting snow, a broken water main, or a ruptured swimming pool. Insurance agents may require photographs of the front and back of your house, an elevation certificate (if you are in a floodplain), a completed and signed application, and a check for the first year’s premium. For sample flood insurance applications, visit the Flood Protection Library in the Township Library.
Stormwater Information • Floodwaters are not clean; they carry mud, disease, farm chemicals, road oil, and other noxious substances that are serious health hazards. • The impact of a flood (cleaning up, making repairs, and suffering personal losses) causes great stress to you, your family, and your finances.
Township Flood Services
Upper St. Clair participates in the Community Rating System, which is a program of providing flood hazard information and services. The first step to protect your home from flood damage is to assess the flood hazard. A complete Flood Protection Library, including flood maps and flood protection references, is available at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. The Department of Planning and Community Development, located in the 58
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
branches accumulate and plug channels, causing danger during rains. • If your property is next to a creek or ditch, keep the banks clear of brush and debris. The Township has a response program to help remove major blockage such as downed trees. • If you see evidence of dumping of debris in creeks or ditches, contact the Public Works Department or the Department of Planning and Community Development. • Always check with the Department of Planning and Community Development before you build, alter, grade, or fill on your property. A permit may be needed to ensure that projects do not cause problems on other properties. If you are in a floodplain, special building codes may apply. The Community Development Department personnel will walk you through any application and answer your questions. Spring 2009
The Township maintains a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit as mandated by the EPA. This program places requirements on stormwater discharges associated with construction activities and discharges for municipal storm sewers. There are projects that the Township has currently undertaken to protect our streams and waterways from hazardous discharge. Be sure to check the website on a regular basis for updates on Stormwater Management and Flood Protection and the steps the Township is taking to meet the federal requirements in order to keep Upper St. Clair a safer place to reside.
This information is published annually as a part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System recertification and is also available on the Township website at www.twpusc.org.
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Standards for Property Maintenance in USC
Glenn Prokopovitch, Code Enforcement Officer, Department of Community Development The purpose of property maintenance standards is to prevent unsafe or unhealthy conditions on private properties. The Township of Upper St. Clair recognized the importance of establishing basic property guidelines by adopting the Garbage, Waste and Recycling ordinance on May 4, 1964. This ordinance provided the community with guidelines concerning the proper storage and removal of municipal wastes which consist of animal, grain, fruit, vegetable, and other by-products. On April 5, 1965, the Township adopted a Junk ordinance to further enhance the general welfare of citizens and appearance of the community by prohibiting the outside/ open storage of unused or unusable materials such as automobile parts, appliances, machinery parts, or other similar materials. Initially, only a few laws were necessary in the Township’s earlier years. Growth of the community and its population created a need for more ordinances. As a result, Township ordinances prohibiting the deposit of litter on private or public properties, requiring maintenance of brush, grass, or weeds during the growing season, and installing residence number identification, just to mention a few, have been enacted from 1964 to the present. The most recent ordinance was the adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code which occurred on July 7, 2008. The intent of the ordinance, in part, is to further expand the Township’s ability to preserve the character of the community by providing specific standards for the maintenance of the exterior structure and property not previously addressed. Exterior surfaces, which include but are not limited to doors, window frames, trim, and fences, shall be maintained in good condition. Exterior wood surfaces, other than decay resistant woods, shall be protected from the elements and decay by painting or other protective treatment or covering. Metal surfaces subject to rust or corrosion shall be coated to inhibit such deterioration. Exterior walls shall be free from breaks, loose or rotting materials and be properly surface coated, as required, to prevent deterioration. Decorative features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition. Exterior property areas shall be kept in a clean and safe condition. The premises shall be maintained to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water unless such area is an approved retention or reservoir area. Sidewalks, driveways, parking spaces, and similar areas shall be kept in good repair and free from hazardous conditions. All accessory structures, including detached garages, storage sheds, fences, and gazebos shall be maintained structurally sound and in good repair. A well maintained community promotes a positive impact on residents, business owners, schools, churches, and property within the Township. Clean, safe, and attractive neighborhoods increase property value, provide a higher quality of life, appeal to newcomers, attract prospective employers, retain current employers, foster growth, and involve everyone’s participation. Individuals who violate the Township Code are subject to court action, daily fines, and other penalties. Serious violations involving health, life, or safety concerns subject the individual(s) to criminal prosecution or civil injunction actions to achieve code compliance. n
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The Department of Community Development strives to be responsive to your questions or concerns. If you wish to report a potential violation by letter, telephone, or in person, contact the Department, which is located at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. The telephone number is 412-831-9000. USC ad.indd 1
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1/9/2009 9:32:08 PM
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Public Works Projects Improve Our Community The Township’s Public Works Department spent much of 2008 working on a number of projects to improve our community. Now that spring approaches and the temperature is getting warmer, take time to view the completed work around our Township.
Progress at the CRC
ing
ex build
orks ann Public W
Boyce
Boyce Mayvi
Mayvie
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k perim
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ew Park field
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New tennis bubble
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Public W orks reta
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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ll along
McLaug
hlin Run
Road
USC-USTC The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair
USC Seniors—Are You Eligible?
Were you born in 1954 or before? Are you retired? If you answered “yes” to both of these questions, then you are eligible to join the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair. This organization, chartered by the Township commissioners in 1975, is a recreational program for older adult residents and run by the Township’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. The group meets every Wednesday, usually in the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road and occasionally somewhere else for an outing or an adventure. There is a short business meeting at 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch (prepared by volunteers from the group), and then a program of interest. Programs range from educational to entertaining. Recently, the USC seniors celebrated Chinese New Year and have been serenaded by the leads of the high school musical. The Recreation Building opens at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays, so bring your bridge group or your craft work. Meet new friends, see neighbors and acquaintances
you haven’t run into for a while, and enjoy the company of other residents—and have a free lunch! Once you have reached the age of 62 (born in 1947 or before) you can join the group even if you are still working. Except if you work on Wednesdays, you’ll miss the programs! Have questions? Contact Amy Kerman, O l d e r A d u l t C o o r d i n a t o r, a t 412-831-9000, extension 296 or via email at kerman@twpusc.org. n
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Attention Senior Citizens, age 65 and older: If you would like to register for the ACCESS 65 PLUS shared-ride transportation program or make application for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen Identification Card to be used for the Port Authority Transit system, please contact the Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, 412-831-9000, extension 296.
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Barbara Tate
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Seniors, at their ann ual holiday luncheon this past December
Gold Card
Silver Card
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. See and enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District. If you are a resident 62 years of age or older just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card. It’s a great way to experience your community!
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair are entitled to apply for a Silver Card that will admit holders to the Upper St. Clair Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, family swim program, and to attend other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card program. Applications are available at the Recreation Department.
Spring 2009
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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USC Library
What’s Your Library Return on Investment? New Study Runs the Numbers
Now that unprecedented amounts
of information are available online to everyone, do we still need libraries? You bet we do! But they’re not your grandfathers’ libraries any more! Libraries have adapted and changed to meet your increasing information needs. Today, libraries provide (besides printed books): audio books on compact disc and digital devices that are also available at downloadable websites; movies on DVD and downloadable digital format; activity centers for young children to develop literacy skills; programs to teach and entertain; computer stations to produce documents and use the Internet; trained staff who will provide educational support; and space where groups can meet, where you can join a discussion group, where children can participate in story times, and where you can simply sit and browse a magazine. But because library services are largely free, it’s easy to underestimate their value in our lives. A recent study has now unveiled numbers to back up the message that “your library is a valuable part of your life.” The “Taxpayer Return on Investment” study by the Pennsylvania Office of Commonwealth Libraries found that while libraries are commonly regarded as recreation or entertainment centers, actually large numbers of citizens use libraries to get information for workrelated activities, to research personal or family issues, to study and do school work, or to stay current on the social and political issues facing society today.
At least half of both in-person and remote library visitors said they consider the information or services they obtain to be “absolutely essential.” In other words, users are getting something they can’t or don’t want to do without—and can’t easily get anywhere else. What this study solidly demonstrates is that public libraries are not luxuries but necessities; that they are not superfluous in the age of the Internet, but rather are as essential as ever, if not more so; and that supporting public libraries with tax dollars is, in the long run, a good investment to enrich our lives. Librarians have been saying for years that public libraries are a bargain. Now they have the numbers to prove it! The study showed that the Commonwealth’s 630 library outlets, serving 12 million Pennsylvanians, provide on average a return on investment of $5.50 in benefits for every $1 of tax support. That’s a return of $55 for every $10 of local, state, and federal taxes we invest in supporting our public libraries. What is your library card worth to you personally? What would you pay for goods and services if the library didn’t exist? Go to the USC Library website (www.twpusc.org/library) and put your numbers into the Library Services Value Calculator. Take a moment to reflect on your library use over the past month, and then fill in the chart. The form will calculate the total value of the resources and services you have used if you had actually purchased them. It also calculates a “return on investment” (based on our community’s per capita library expenditures). Your tax dollars fund and support your library. “Cash in” on this investment by visiting today—you will discover a wealth of materials, resources, and experiences waiting for you! n
Adult Programs at the Library this Spring
Food for Fines—Successful Holiday Food Drive
Egg Dying Workshop with Anna Orient Wednesday, March 25, 1-4 p.m. Understanding Fibromyalgia: A Holistic Approach to Chronic Pain and Fatigue, presented by Dr. Kevin Smith of Advanced Chiropractic Thursday, March 26, 7-8:30 p.m. Penn State Master Gardener’s Spring Program: Planning your Fall Bounty Thursday, April 16, 7-8:30 p.m. Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra: Unlocking the Classics Monday, April 27, 7-8:30 p.m. Backyard Composting, Pennsylvania Resources Council, Inc Thursday, May 14, 7-8:30 p.m. (Class is $40 and includes composting bin.) CSI: Forensic Science, presented by Dr. Ed Strimlan, Chief Forensic Investigator for Allegheny County Wednesday, May 27, 7-8:30 p.m. U.S. Foreign Policy in a Changed World, World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh Thursday, June 4, 7-8:30 p.m. Please check with the library to register and to verify program dates and times.
Thanks to the many patrons who contributed to the library’s holiday food drive, Food for Fines, this past December to benefit the Bridgeville Area Food Bank. The library collected 11 large boxes of food items as well as over $600 in cash donations. The Friends of the Library also sent a box of children’s books, which the Food Bank distributed to families with young children. Thank you for sharing so generously with our neighbors and helping to make a difference in their lives. n
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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The Library is Open Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday 1–5 p.m. The Library will be closed Sunday, April 12 in observance of the Easter holiday.
National Library Week April 12–18, 2009
412-835-5540
Ask the Librarian
Fairy Tale Match-Up Match the pictures from
n, Dear Libraria e a reader? my child becom lp ent he I n ca How Concerned Par
famous fairy tales with their correct title!
ild become a rned Parent, to help your ch develops do n ca Dear Conce u yo g your child portant thin ough reading s The most im with him. Thr understanding of how book ad re to is er an read s, ill sk n prehensio reading. language, com of books and bright, pefully, a love ho ose books with d, ho C an . k es or bi w ba ur ck. Ducks yo du e ith th w books ctures. “See pi e th Read board t ou ab es and talk and colorful pictur llow.” ith real stories his duck is ye T .’ ck ua cture books w ‘q n pi he e say uc W od s. tr ok in bo grows, tes and new ri vo fa s d rn As your child ol lea of d ild hears an combination ctures, your ch . Ask questions plots. Read a pi d an ry sto t the familiar you talk abou ds that are un k your child Explain wor ou can also as Y . ry sto more words. e th in g questions aid in of en s pp pe ha well. These ty s about what is ow kn he es of stori to retell parts will help sion. ading together in comprehen rn to read, re ding lea ea to R ns u. gi yo be ild child read to When your ch e a good m . Have your co er be ad re to e a tic as to him grow s lots of prac for you to read r skill. It take ll important e sti is like any othe m s co it’ be at th ild d ch ur in min ader helps yo re d t reader. Keep an en , flu hm a istening to ession, rhyt your child. L , he hears expr ngful ni ad re ea u m yo to s in .A t words a fluent reader how to connec demonstrates pace. It also a child become s to help your ce statements. rians ur ra so lib re r, of be ts has lo . And remem on so Your library ry ra lib visit the reader. Please you! lp he to re he are Sincerely, Librarian Debra Conn,
The Frog Prince
Jack and the Beanstalk
The Princess and the Pea
Rapunzel
Colleen Miles Named New Librarian of the Year Colleen Miles won the 2008 New Librarian Honors Award by the Pennsylvania Library Association, which “acknowledges a librarian who has worked in the profession for fewer than six years. It recognizes the originality and inventive ability of a new librarian who devises new and improved methods of library service on a statewide or local level.” Colleen wears many hats as the youth services librarian at Upper St. Clair Township Library. She currently plans and conducts programs for school-age children and teens including More Than a Story, BookTrek, Battle of the Books for third and fourth graders and their families, and Battle of the Books for seventh graders. In addition, Colleen manages a very active teen volunteer program.
Outside of the library, Colleen has been an active volunteer with the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC), the Upper St. Clair Parks Department, the Upper St. Clair Citizens for Land Stewardship, and The Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair. Colleen became a full time staff member in the fall of 2004 after completing her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh. She graduated from Saint Mary’s College with a degree in humanistic studies. n
Rumplestiltskin
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Hansel and Gretel
Do you want to read their whole story? Visit the Folklore and
k program. Colleen Miles leads the BookTre
Colleen (right) is shown with Mary Garm, president of the Pennsylva nia Library Association .
Spring 2009
Fairy Tales section of the Children's Library. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Upper St Clair Citizens’ Police Academy in Review
Christina Landfried-Simmons, Class of 2008
Marie Klos and Deputy Chief Douglas Burkholder
The Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy’s six-week course offers an inside look at the workings of the USC Police Department and so much more! Facts and statistics shared by Lieutenant John Sakoian were fascinating—the kinds of things you always wanted to know about police work but never had the opportunity to ask. As a part of the training, we took a field trip to the Allegheny County Police Academy in North Park for firearms safety training. While there, we used the Firearms Training Simulator (F.A.T.S.) that played video scenarios to test our judgment in the
use of lethal force. Some participants did better than others regarding their decision making skills and response times, but no one will admit if they endangered innocent bystanders. In the self-defense class, Corporal Patrick Keally showed us how to defend ourselves if assaulted. Even though some of the men in our group went home bruised, the women seemed to take delight in learning pressure point control techniques. We couldn’t wait to get home and practice on our unsuspecting spouses. A big hit was the class in which we split into groups for traffic enforcement, DUI, and felony stops. During traffic enforcement, we were surprised at just how accurate is Vascar. All the groups had some good natured participants who volunteered to see how an officer conducts field sobriety testing and to experience how a breathalyzer is used. (Don’t worry; we had designated drivers!) A class highlight was when we got to role play with off duty officers
who acted as “bad guy” felons. Who knew shooting simmunition marking pellets could be so exciting? While no one was injured during the re-enactments, “bad guy” Officer Ronald Klein definitely had some marks. From what we learned, we realize more than ever that it takes an extraordinary person to be a police officer. Besides being courageous, USC officers are experienced, talented, diligent, and well trained. They are committed to more than just serving our community; they truly care about Upper St. Clair and its citizens. You can’t help but feel a little more secure when you cross over the Township line and into USC, knowing that you are home. This informative program, put together by USC Chief of Police Ronald Pardini, is worth experiencing! Special thanks to all the officers who volunteered their time as instructors. n
Members of the 2008 USC Citizens’ Police Academy, left to right, seated, are: Joseph and Kimberly Meliton, Susan Billetdeaux, Dianne Lynch, Lisa Vid, Kristi and Mark Tranquilli; standing: Deputy Chief Douglas Burkholder, Chief Ronald Pardini, Douglas Cornelius, Jeffrey Barbarita, Michael Joyce, Carol Seibert, Nancy and Timothy Joyce, Richard Krantz, Christina Landfried-Simmons, Deborah and Keith Hartman, Leanne Dengler, Lieutenant John Sakoian
Citizens’ Police Academy—What it Meant to Me Carol Seibert, Class of 2008
As an employee of the USC School District, but not a USC resident, I was curious, but reluctant to participate in the USC Citizens’ Police Academy program this past fall. After talking with a friend who had previously taken the course, I decided to go ahead and see what it was all about. I learned about the history and policy of laws, codes, lab reports, patrol procedures, 64
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and how our court system works. Watching and participating in simulations of crimes and deciding how to react to felons and their weapons was of special interest. It’s amazing to me how the police train to be able to deal with all kinds of situations. Chief of Police Ronald Pardini has high expectations of his officers— maintain the highest of standards, keep fit Spring 2009
by exercise, be ready to go in a moment’s notice—which benefit the residents and employees of USC. USC police keep the Township and the School District a safe place to live, work, play, and go to school. Special thanks to Chief Pardini and the USC Police Department for all they do and for giving me the opportunity to attend the academy. n
Community Offerings
Easter Egg Hunt Hop on down to McLaughlin Run Road on Saturday, March 28 (Rain date: Saturday, April, 4) for the annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club and the Upper St. Clair High School Interact Club. Families should plan to arrive around 10:30 a.m. to enjoy some before-the-hunt activities in the shelter area near the Municipal three-hole golf course. The children can then get their baskets ready for the Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. Mark your calendar now and watch for more information to follow in your elementary school building’s Good News envelope.
T I Dig Spring! Stop in today to check out the latest & greatest toys of the season!
7OFF
$
.00
Any purchase of $35 or more *
*May not be combined with any other offer. Prior sales excluded. May not be used for purchase of gift card. Expires 3/31/09
Save the Date for USC Community Day— Saturday, May 16 If you are interested in sponsoring a booth, participating in the parade, or volunteering at USC Community Day to be held on Saturday, May 16, contact Lynn Walcoff, Recreation Program Coordinator, at 412-831-9000, extension 255. It’s not too early to start making your plans! Help Wanted—Department of Recreation and Leisure Services The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is currently accepting applications for part-time summer staff positions as well as year round Community Recreation Center (CRC) positions. Positions that need to be filled include lifeguards, Summer Playground, Little Panther Paws, summer recreational sports, front desk, membership, and much more! For summer staff positions, contact 412-831-9000, extension 255 or for the CRC, contact 412-831-9000, extension 207. n
The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon •1500 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh • (412) 341-8697
The Mt. Lebanon Counseling Group A Place to Grow...
Life Coaching & Treatment for: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Parenting Issues James M. Hepburn
PhD, Licensed Psychologist
Marjorie Whyel
M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor
Spring Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection—April 25 It’s time to spring clean! Township collection of yard debris and leaf waste will take place on Saturday, April 25. Place your filled compostable paper bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. No other spring collection is scheduled. n
Caroline Graham-McGuire
M.S.Ed., Licensed Professional Counselor
Comprehensive Counseling Service for Children, Teens, Adults, Couples, Families & Groups.
412.257.0677 615 Washington Rd., Suite 105 Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228 Spring 2009
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Learning Takes Flight at the REEC Jessica Stombaugh, Program Manager
Hawk! Although this is a pretty common announcement to students at the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC), this time I found myself scrambling for my camera (which rides beside me in the car, just in case) to capture a rare close-up glimpse of an immature Red-tail Hawk as I entered the Boyce Mayview Park this past December. After a few moments and a flurry of quick photos, the hawk flew off up the hill and over the soon-to-be completed Community Recreation Center, leaving me with a smile and a wonderful start to another day at the REEC. Eagerly I shared my photos with, well, whomever I could find as I thought about the end of this exciting year. As 2008 came to a close, I reflected upon what a year it had been! Not only did REEC staff educate 2600 school students with standards-based outdoor learning experiences, another marked increase over previous years, the REEC offered new programs such as the adult Talk N Walk series and the Bullfrogs & Pollywogs camp for preschoolers and their parents. The REEC hosted programs from organizations such as the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club, and Earth Force and provided timely lectures on the oil and energy issues Americans were facing leading up to the presidential election. Yes, I could rightfully say that 2008 was a good year at the REEC, and as I excitedly scrolled through my newly acquired
favorite photos, I couldn’t help but compare the REEC to that beautiful wild creature. The REEC started out small in 2004, hatching from the minds and hearts of those dedicated few who brought it to life. Stumbling slightly as the REEC grew and tested the limits of its abilities in 2005, the REEC finally spread its wings and took flight in 2007—still young, but growing strong, observing its Investigating a mushroom ever changing surroundings in Boyce Mayview Park, and continually adapting to new conditions. Not knowing what the future will bring, but hoping for a bountiful year as the REEC weathers and enjoys the beauty that Mother Nature provides to us each day. Helping our community enjoy the beauty found in Boyce Mayview Park and recognizing its connection to it is part of the REEC’s mission and my passion. Each new day brings new opportunities to stop and Human bird, getting wings look up, search the skies for the graceful hawk, and smile. I hope to see you on the trails this year. The REEC will be offering many opportunities to do so for all ages! n
A Taste of the REEC’s Upcoming Programs Act 48 Pennsylvania Song Birds course for educators presented by Earth Force Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday Outdoors Hikes (SOD) start again! Saturday, April 11, 10-11 a.m. Pittsburgh South Hills Migratory Bird Count Saturday, May 9, 8 a.m. Budding Science (SSS-13) camp, ages 8-12 Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20, and 27; 4-8 p.m. Moonstruck Full Moon Hikes will be switching trails in April and will continue to run each full moon. Cadet Girl Scout programs are now being offered throughout the year.
Immature Red-tailed hawk
Summer camp registrations begin in April for the following camps: Jr. Naturalists June 8-12, ages 4-5, 9 a.m.-noon June 22-26, ages 5-6, 9 a.m.-noon Bullfrogs & Pollywogs, ages 3-4 and their parents June 17, 24, July 1, 8 and 15; 12:30-1:30 p.m. Eco-Kids, ages 7-10 July 13-17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Matter of Fact Science (SSS-14), ages 8-12 July 27-31, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Regional Environmental Education Center, Program Manager Jessica Stombaugh PO Box 12566, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-0064 Website: www.regionaleec.org 66
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T A personal, more meaningful approach to financial planning
Parenting. What a Ride.
John D. Link, CFP®, MS CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM practitioner Whether you’re starting a small business, obtaining life insurance, or sending your kids to college, I can help you plan to reach your financial goals through personal, customized financial planning.
Call (412) 854-4001 today.
The WROC’s parenting Need asummer Navigator? The WROC’s spring/summer classes include:
John D. Link, CFP®, MS Financial Advisor 2555 Washington Road, Suite 610-B Pittsburgh, PA 15241 (412) 854-4001 john.d.link@ampf.com www.ameripriseadvisors.com/john.d.link
Love and Logic Parenting Workshop
Parenting children birth-6 years
Li’l WROCers
Summer Camp Program for 2-5 year olds
Raising Girls
For mothers of girls grades 3-8 Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC.
www.westminster-church.org/wroc
Service Beyond Upper St. Clair—Part I USCVFD Members Serve Country in Military Roles Mike Russell, USCVFD Firefighter
Recently, Doug Heckman,
a member of the USC Volunteer Fire Department (USCVFD), received several emails and conversed on the phone with U.S. Navy Seaman Anthony “Tony” Messina. This was a special exchange because the emails and telephone call came all the way from one of the most dangerous places in the world—Balad Air Force Base, located about 68 kilometers (40-42 miles) north of Baghdad. Tony, a volunteer firefighter, is also a Fighting Seabee in the U.S. Navy attached to U.S. Marine Infantry Unit. While Tony can’t disclose his location or what he is doing, we know that the Seabees are actively involved with infrastructure reconstruction in Iraq. There’s not a day that goes by that members of the VFD and others don’t think of Tony on the front lines doing his part to preserve our freedom. Tony Messina
This winter, Doug organized a drive among USC volunteer firefighters to collect various food items, toiletries, books, magazines, and clothing to send to Tony. The members were more than glad to help a brother firefighter. New member Brad Childs, part owner of Eyetique, donated a pair of Oakley sunglasses, a surprise that brightened Tony’s day. One day when I was speaking with Doug, he mentioned that in his ten years as a volunteer firefighter he’s seen a lot of guys come and go, but he’s never seen someone go off to war. Members of the USCVFD are proud of Tony for being at the “tip of the spear” in Iraq. His service as a volunteer firefighter to the USC community and service to our country as a Fighting Seabee in Iraq goes beyond appreciation! God bless you Tony! In addition to Tony, three other current or recent members of USCVFD are also serving our country. Continued on page 68
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Continued from page 67
Russell Kropp, former junior/probationary firefighter and son of veteran volunteer firefighter, treasurer/financial advisor to the USCVFD, Dave Kropp, is currently enrolled at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. Currently, Russ is a Junior Midshipman 2/C. He is a member of the varsity wrestling team and is the 25th Company’s management information systems liaison officer. When Russ was a junior at USC High School, he surprised his father by requesting to attend the week-long “Summer Leaders Training” at the United States Military Academy. After attending the training, Russ knew that he wanted to attend one of the academies and was accepted at the Army’s U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. His decision to attend the Naval Academy was influenced partly by the fact that his late grandfather, Captain James J. Strohm, was a 1953 USNA graduate. Russell Kropp Russ’ major area of study is systems engineering. Upon earning his commission as an officer, Russ’ goal is to fly the F-18 Growler, a plane especially outfitted for electronic warfare. It jams radar, pinpoints missile sites, and intercepts or jams communications. Mike Seese, currently an active volunteer firefighter, is attending Russ Kropp’s rival academy, the United States Military Academy (USMA). Mike maintains his status as a volunteer firefighter by being placed on military leave status, which allows him to remain on the roles of the USCVFD and to be a firefighter on his trips home from the Academy.
Mike’s desire to attend USMA resulted from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and their proximity to his mother’s extended family in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Long Island. He knew he wanted to serve from that day forward, and the Army’s direct role in the war on terrorism and the opportunity to be the “boots on the ground” were factors in Mike’s decision to attend the USMA. He decided that the USMA would give him the best training possible to be an officer in the U.S. Army. Mike’s rank at the USMA is Cadet Sergeant. Upon receiving his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant, he is leaning toward aviation as Apache Helicopter Pilot or Special Forces. Mike’s patriotism prior to attending the USMA is evidenced by his participation in Civil Air Patrol (Ground Team/Search and Rescue as well as Honor Guard) and Boy Scouts Eagle Scout. Talk about the All American kid! We thank Mike and his parents for his service to our community as a volunteer firefighter and his future service to our country as a commissioned officer. The department’s third Academy appointee and a recent graduate of the United States Naval Academy is Matt McCallum of Upper St. Clair. Matt started as a junior volunteer firefighter while attending Central Catholic High School in Oakland. When I last spoke with him in August 2008, Matt had received his commission as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. Since Marines are infantry first, every officer, whether they are a lawyer, chaplain, pilot, or even in the band, is required to attend infantry training. Matt went through six months of infantry training and three months training at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. He is scheduled to be a logistics officer in San Diego which Matt describes as being the Santa Claus for the U.S. Marine Corps; but instead of passing out presents, he will be distributing 50 caliber machine guns and grenade launchers. We a re proud to have had Matt among our ranks as a volunteer firef i g h t e r ! We wish him all the best and thank him for his service to our community and to our country. n
Matt McCallum
Look for “Service Beyond USC—Part II” in the summer 2009 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY where we will introduce you to a number volunteer firefighters who are veteran servicemen. If you have a desire to help your community, talk to a member of the USCVFD about how you can voluntarily serve fellow residents of Upper St. Clair as a firefighter.
Mike Seese 68
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2555 Washington Rd., Suite 620, Upper St. Clair, PA
412-833-1101
www.dmchiro.com
There seems to be a perception that Chiropractic is only effective for acute conditions. Most Americans understand that chiropractic care is the treatment of choice for low back pain. Did you know that this same chiropractic care may be the best option for your non-low back pain problems? Over the years, millions have found chiropractic care to be the life changing option for neck pain, headaches, migraines, disc problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, mid back pain, numbness and tingling in the arms, hands and legs and many other health problems. Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive healthcare professions available for the treatment of disc problems, neck pain, joint pain of the arms or legs, headaches, and other neuromusculoskeletal complaints and has an excellent safety record. Find out what millions already know about chiropractic by calling Drs. Deana and Marc Micucci for a complimentary consultation to determine if your health problems may be helped through chiropractic care, (Please mention this ad).
General Primary Election—Tuesday, May 19, 2009 Polls Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday, April 20, 2009, is Voter Registration Deadline Date. (Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)
If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, please call the Allegheny County Elections Department at 412-350-4500 or visit www.twpusc.org. The Township Library and the post office have voter registration forms. Please exercise your right to vote! Ward District Polling Place
Ward District Polling Place 3
1
Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road
3
2
St. Louise de Marillac School - McMurray Road
3
3
Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
4
1
Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium Morton Road
4
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
4
2
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
4
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
2
1
Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
4
4
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
2
2
Westminster Presbyterian Church - Washington Road
5
1
2
3
Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
Wesley Spectrum Services, Gymnasium Johnston Road
5
2
Wesley Spectrum Services, Gymnasium Johnston Road
2
4
Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road
5
3
Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road
1
1
Township Building, Library Multi-purpose Room, Ground Floor - McLaughlin Run Road
1
2
Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium Morton Road
1
3
1
Spring 2009
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 sewerrelated 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, please contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271.
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Tri-Community South—2008 Year in Review
Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) responded to 6,684 EMS responses for the year, an increase of six calls from 2007. Non-emergency transport calls decreased to 154 in 2008, a decrease of 68 trips from 2007, because of continued insurance carrier restrictions on non-emergency ambulance transportation. Since entering service on December 31, 1977, TCS has answered over 131,000 emergency calls and has done over 21,000 non-emergency transports. In 2008, about 76% of all patients received advanced life support treatment. This is consistent with percentages from past years. About 77% of all responses resulted in the transportation of a patient and 75% of all transports were to either St. Clair Memorial Hospital or Jefferson Regional Medical Center. This, too, is consistent with percentages from prior years. TCS employees and volunteers provided stand-by medical coverage to 253 school district and community gatherings in 2008, totaling over 483 staff hours. TCS staff members also teach CPR and first aid, totaling in excess of 349 staff hours in 2008. TCS remains the busiest community training center in the American Heart Association’s Northern Atlantic region, with more than 10,000 people trained annually. Every TCS employee is a CPR instructor. Each member of TCS’s staff puts many hours every year into continuing education. In 2008, TCS employees accumulated more than 500 hours of con-ed. Each paramedic attends at least 18 hours of instruction per year, and each EMT must attend 24 hours in two years. Every TCS employee exceeds these requirements, most by a generous margin. All of TCS’s paramedics recertified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support in 2008 and are gaining certification in the new Advanced Prehospital Airway Management course developed at the Peter M. Winter Institute for Simulation Education and Research (WISER) Center of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The system’s six ambulances traveled a combined total of 113,245 miles during the year, a decrease of 2,714 miles from 2007. By the end of the year, the total fleet mileage for the ambulances was 329,641. The system’s support vehicle and response vehicle now have a combined fleet mileage of 30,799, making the total fleet mileage 360,440. Half of the ambulance fleet is scheduled for replacement in late-2009.
TCS’s full time staff decreased by one in 2008, with a field staff complement of the director, four supervisors, 20 full-time employees, four part-time employees, and nine volunteers. The staff is stable and experienced, and the average employee has 13 years of service with the system. An administrative and billing office staff of four supports the field operations. TCS remains a field-training site for the Center for Emergency Medicine and Community College of Allegheny County paramedic training programs. In 2008, TCS assisted in the training of 23 students, coming from across Pennsylvania and the U.S., and from Iceland, Nigeria, and South Korea. TCS was once again the lead EMS agency at the annual emergency drill at the National Energy Technology Laboratory in South Park this past April and the host EMS agency for the Beaver Valley Power Station evacuation exercise in May. TCS’s performance has been unfailingly outstanding at these drills, and this year was no exception. Several TCS employees are certified in advanced incident command and can function on the command staff at emergencies of any magnitude. The system’s honor guard participated in Pennsylvania’s EMS Memorial Service, associated with the National EMS Memorial Service in Roanoke, Virginia, and at the EMS Recognition Day at PNC Park during EMS Week in May. TCS’s staff once again received accolades as well. Nora Helfrich, TCS’s director, received an award from the Emergency Medical Service Institute at its annual dinner in November. Nora was recognized for her outstanding contributions to EMS in Southwestern Pennsylvania. She was nomi-
nated for the award by EMSI board member Mary Ann Scott, who was Tri-Community South’s founding director in 1977. EMSI is the Regional EMS Council serving the Southwestern Pennsylvania counties of Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland. Chuck Bryan, who now has 31 years of service with Tri-Community South, was honored by the Ambulance Association of Pennsylvania (AAP) as a recipient of the 2008 Star of Life award. The award was presented at the second annual Pennsylvania EMS 911 Event in Harrisburg on September 11. The award is given to EMS providers who particularly exemplify the “efforts and importance of the job our everyday heroes provide to the residents of this Commonwealth.” Chuck was one of eight recipients of the award for 2008. The AAP is the lead organization for the advancement of the needs of its members in the emergency and non-emergency ambulance and medical transportation industry. For 2008, the system was again fully self-supporting, with all income coming from the annual subscription drive, user fees, and third-party reimbursements, with some equipment purchases supported by the state’s EMSOF program and other grants. No municipal tax monies were used to support the system, and TCS received no money from the Local Services Tax, levied by municipalities on people employed in the community. In 2008, of the 25,447 households in the service area, only 7,095, or less than 28%, subscribed to Tri-Community South. In the first month of the 2009 subscription drive, 3,575 households, about 14% of the total in the community, have subscribed. n
TCS vehicles on display on the Roberto Clemente Bridge for EMS Day at PNC Park
For more information on Tri-Community South, to register for a CPR class, or for any other questions on emergency medical services, call TCS at 412-831-3710, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or visit www.tcsems.org. 70
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Continued from page 55
2009 Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Rate Notice and Payment Schedule
The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District hereby give public notice to all earned income and net profits taxpayers of the Township of the rate and payment schedule for each taxing body for the year 2009. Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Rate for 2009 For 2009, the Earned Income and Net Profits tax rates of the Township and the School District are 0.80% and 0.50%, respectively, of taxable income as defined by Act 166 of 2002. Thus, the total USC taxpayer’s rate for 2009 is 1.30%. Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Payment Schedule for 2009 Date Tax Period February 2....... 4th quarter, 2008 Tax Estimate Due April 15........... 2008 USC-40 Due April 30........... 1st quarter, 2009 Tax Estimate Due July 31............. 2nd quarter, 2009 Tax Estimate Due November 2..... 3rd quarter, 2009 Tax Estimate Due This notice reminds all taxpayers that they are responsible for filing all estimates and final returns in a timely manner. If a taxpayer does not receive quarterly tax estimates for 2009 or a 2008 USC-40 form by mail, they should contact the Township Tax Office at 412-831-9000. No appeals will be granted to a taxpayer for not receiving these forms by mail. Only quarterly tax estimates received in the tax office or postmarked by the appropriate tax period due date will avoid penalty and interest assessments. Also, in accordance with section 3.2.1.5 of the Upper St. Clair Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Ordinance, 90% of a taxpayer’s liability for 2009 must be paid by February 1, 2010, or a taxpayer will be subject to underpayment penalties and interest. This notice also reminds all taxpayers that all 2008 USC-40s will be audited by the Township’s Tax Office through a comparison of data shared by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. This information is usually shared with the Tax office approximately two to three years after a return has been filed. Tax notices assessing the additional tax and underpayment penalties and interest will be sent to any taxpayers that have understated his or her income. n
2009 Real Estate Tax Notice and Payment Schedule The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District hereby give public notice to all real estate taxpayers of the Township of the payment schedule of each taxing body for the year 2009. Township Real Estate Tax Schedule for 2009 Date Tax Period May 1.......................................... Tax bills mailed May 1-June 30............................ 2% discount July 1-August 31......................... Face amount September 1-December 1........... 10% penalty December 2................................ Lien date For 2008, the Township millage rate is 3.40 mills of the assessed valuation of your property. School District Real Estate Tax Schedule for 2009 Date Tax Period July 1.......................................... Tax bills mailed July 1-August 31......................... 2% discount September 1-November 2........... Face amount November 2-December 1........... 10% penalty December 2................................ Lien date The School District will adopt its real estate tax millage rate for the fiscal year 2009-10 at the June 2009 School Board meeting. This notice reminds all taxpayers that they are responsible to see that their property is properly assessed and taxed and to ask for appropriate tax bills if they have not received them by mail. No appeals will be granted due to a taxpayer not receiving a real estate tax bill. Only payments received in the tax office or postmarked by the tax period due date will be given the two percent discount or avoid the ten percent penalty. n
Commercial Insurance Individual Financial Planning Professional Liability Coverage Automobile-Homeowners Life-Disability
Protecting Today.
2009 Upper St. Clair Township Sewer User Multiplier Rate
The Township of Upper St. Clair hereby gives public notice to all Township sewer users that ALCOSAN has increased its charges by approximately 16%, and the Township costs due to the financing of the EPA consent order work have increased substantially. Thus, the 2009 Sewer User Multiplier rate used to calculate the Township’s cost reimbursement has been set at 2.15. In July 2005, the Township of Upper St. Clair contracted with Pennsylvania American Water Company (PAWC) to provide the billing and collection of its monthly sewer user fees, which are now included with a resident’s water bill. The benefit of billing in this manner is to allow the customer to see
Group Benefits
his exact water usage for comparison with his wastewater charges. To illustrate the impact of the new rates for 2009, a monthly sewer bill assuming a usage of 7000 gallons of water has been calculated and compared to the 2008 rates:
2008 2009 rate rate Water Usage Charge $42.09 ALCOSAN Service Charge 4.22 Total Monthly Bill $46.31
$56.77 5.68 $62.45
The new rates should have appeared on the PAWC billing received in February 2009. n Spring 2009
Securing Tomorrow.
Henderson Brothers, Inc. 920 Fort Duquesne Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 T • 412.261.1842 F • 412.261.4149
info@hendersonbrothers.com www.hendersonbrothers.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Around the Township
News from Around the Township
Boyce Road Gardeners
Boyce Road Gardeners, Upper St. Clair’s community garden group, enjoyed another fun-filled, educational, and successful gardening season in 2008. Dating back to 1975, the gardens are the oldest community gardens in the county and are devoted to organic gardening. Our gardeners are hardy farmers in miniature, who turn their 40' x 40' plots into a remarkable variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Members are of all ages, ranging from senior citizens to an energetic group of children, all of whom have a love of gardening and a respect for the land. The Boyce Road Gardeners’ year officially kicks off on Tuesday, March 31, at 7 p.m. at the Upper St. Clair Library meeting room when speaker Sandy Feather, from the Penn State Agriculture Extension, will talk about growing produce in an intensively managed small garden. The meeting is open to all residents. It’s always amazing to see what the gardeners manage to produce in spite of the very unpredictable Pennsylvania weather!
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The highlight of the year is the August garden fair and picnic, where the gardeners’ produce is featured for judging. Both senior and junior categories are critiqued, and all junior entries are blue ribbon winners. This year’s fair will be held on Saturday, August 15 at the gardens. Members’ entries are wide-ranging, from the newest seed varieties to old heirloom favorites. If you have yet to taste an heirloom tomato, then you really haven’t enjoyed a great tomato! In addition to growing for personal enjoyment and consumption, members annually support the local St. Winifred’s Food Bank with fresh produce for needy area families. Although garden space, located along the edge of Boyce Mayview Park at the corner of Boyce and Morton Roads, is limited, membership is open to all. Membership fee is a mere $5 and plot rental is $10. A plot can be shared for an additional $5 fee. n Information about Boyce Road Gardeners can be obtained from members Phyllis or Jerry Kender at 412-221-3118.
Lacrosse Action in USC Kathleen Himler
With spring comes the joy of outside activities and pick up games—you know, soccer, baseball and lacrosse. Yes, lacrosse! With the popularity explosion of lacrosse, it’s not uncommon anymore to see young people gathering in neighborhoods and fields with sticks in hand, eager to play. Further confirmation of lacrosse’s appeal is evident in sporting goods stores, where lacrosse sticks are disappearing from shelves faster than traditional spring sports equipment. Lacrosse is a game with many great elements, including its rich history as the oldest original North American game (lacrosse was being played by Native Americans hundreds of years before today’s versions of baseball and football). Played on a grass field approximately the size of a football field, lacrosse combines the keen field strategy of soccer with the finesse of basketball, the physical contact of ice hockey, and the open-field excitement of football. Players wear helmets, shoulder pads, arm guards and gloves with the objective to shoot a hard rubber ball into a six-foot square goal using a stick with a webbed plastic head. Like the worldwide trend, lacrosse in Western Pennsylvania has experienced a steady and enthusiastic climb in participation. In recognition of this growth, as of July 1, 2008, boys’ lacrosse became a WPIAL/PIAA (Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League /Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) sport which means that USC’s high school program is no longer a club sport, but rather a school sanctioned activity in the same vein as football, basketball, and baseball. Consequently, there’s also good news for those in the younger ranks, kindergarten through eighth grade, which the remainder of this article describes. With change comes opportunity, and we’re fortunate to have USC parents who were willing to take the initiative to develop the Upper St. Clair K-8 Lacrosse Club. The establishment of this club offers boys the opportunity to learn the game of lacrosse while progressing through various levels of competitive play as they develop skills and maturity. The boys’ teams are broken down by age, elementary (K-fourth grade), Boyce (fifth and sixth grades), and Fort Couch (seventh and eighth grades). A parents’ orientation meeting was held in November to introduce the new organization and to familiarize new families with the basics of needed equipment, coaching philosophy, and registration timelines. Initial registration response was strong, with nearly 200 registrants which includes a mix of experienced and non-experienced players. Registrations are now complete. However, if you’re new to USC or somehow missed the December deadline, contact the appropriate coordinator (see list at end of article) for special circumstances consideration. Every effort will be made to get all interested participants on a team roster.
With the newly formed St. Clair K-8 Boys Lacrosse Club, volunteer opportunities for family involvement will be integral so the fun will not be limited to merely the players! At the apex of the club is a three-member executive tier whose primary responsibility is the overall administration of the program. Program coordinators will help the coaches by managing the administrative functions (game schedules, player communications, and roster changes). Committee chairs will then execute the program particulars; for example, fundraising, field operations, and social functions. All chair positions have been graciously filled and committee members are being sought. To sustain the success of this club, it is recognized that volunteer support from each participating family is essential and will be required. Another essential element of the program’s success will be high caliber coaching standards. Not only will each coach be required to secure Pennsylvania Child Abuse and Criminal clearances as well as FBI clearances, but they will also be required to have evidence of U.S. Lacrosse Level I training and accreditation. Moreover, the coaching philosophy will foster the rewards of team camaraderie, individual development, and an engrained commitment to sportsmanship, on and off the field. The season of lacrosse starts in the crazy weather month of March, so early season practices are often cold and sometimes snowy. Games begin mid-April and last until late May. Elementary age players have approximately eight games while the middle schoolers can count on as many as 15 games per team. If new to this sport, prepare yourself for the fast paced action of lacrosse games that last only about an hour. If you ask players what lured them to this game, they’ll tell you because it’s fast, there’s checking (sixth grade and up), and because Dad didn’t play! To learn more about the Upper St. Clair K-8 Lacrosse Club, visit www.usclax.com. n
Spring 2009
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Ribbons of Love Keeley Carson
When you think of December,
Good Deed Nets Big Results When Rachel Geffrey , now a seventh grader at Fort Couch Middle School, was looking for a mitzvah project in preparation for her Bat Mitzvah, she didn’t have to look any further than USC’s Hentosz family. Angelina Hentosz was in need of a seizure monitor, and to raise the $850 needed for the monitor, Rachel decided to hold a bake sale at her temple, Temple Emmanuel. She sent out emails to members of the temple and the Girl Scout community requesting donations of baked goods, spent two days baking, and recruited her friends to help man the sale, which raised over $900. The money raised over and above the cost of the monitor was used to start a fund for Angelina’s seizure dog. n
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a lot of things come to mind. Usually, December means joy, happiness, Christmas (for many), and presents. It also means coming together with your family, and sharing your joy and laughter with many. Unfortunately, for the Hentosz family, December 2007 was the exact opposite. The Hentoszs are a family in Upper St. Clair, who are going through hard times. Angelina Hentosz, a beautiful three-yearold girl has a rare disease—a form of epilepsy called Severe Myclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI). There is no known cure. By the age of two, Angelina already had over 100 seizures. The Hentoszs are very aware that if Angelina goes into a seizure, she may not come back out of it. In December 2007, a horrible event occurred. Angelina had a four-hour long seizure and was rushed to the hospital, where she stayed for about a month and through the holidays. This was really hard on Angelina and her family. Angelina’s sister, Carissa (age 12) is a good friend of mine, so I am aware of how dangerous these seizures are for little Angelina. At the end of last summer, doctors told the Hentoszs that they could get a specially trained service dog that could detect a seizure before it happened. Normally, Angelina isn’t allowed to sleep alone in her bedroom in case she would have a seizure in the middle of the night. If the Hentoszs could get a dog, Angelina would be able to sleep in her own room for the first time! There was one problem—the dog cost $10,000 to train. When I found out about the opportunity that they had been given, but also about the cost, I knew that I needed to do something to help the Hentoszs pay for the dog. After all, this dog could save Angelina’s life! My mom, Ellen Carson, my sister, Aubrey, age ten and a student at Boyce, and I were talking in the kitchen, trying to think of an idea for a fundraiser. My mom thought of a great idea. We would make “Ribbons of Love” for Angelina Hentosz! I called my friends Sarah Burton and Brigid Kennedy, also good friends of Carissa, and asked them if they would help me. They agreed, and we got to work the next day. We made both purple and white ribbon pins. We chose purple because purple is the color that represents epilepsy. We had Spring 2009
Angelina and her dog, Gigi
many volunteers from Fort Couch and Boyce help make the ribbons—over 800 ribbons in one weekend. In November, we sold the ribbon pins at both Boyce and Fort Couch schools— white ribbons for a recommended donation of $1 and purple for any donation over $1. It was amazing how many people reached out to help sell or buy ribbons. By the end of our campaign, both schools raised over $700 and after two weeks of selling the ribbons, we made over $1400. Many people reached out to help little Angelina Hentosz. On November 7, my mother, Ellen Carson, had a luncheon at our home for about 50 guests, many of them being close friends of Mr. and Mrs. Hentosz, but some people had never met the Hentosz family and just wanted to show their support. The guests donated over $3400! Greg Vitcavage, of Fort Couch Middle School, sold Sarris candy at school with the proceeds going to Angelina. Robbie and Steven Halpner, Connor and Maggie Halloran, and Brittany Hartman held a neighborhood bake sale on November 8 and sold hot apple cider and cookies on Mill Grove Road. They made $72, an amount that was matched by a group of parents. Many other people have helped support this cause, too. After an article written about Angelina in The Almanac appeared in late October, Mrs. Hentosz received over 40 cards and checks from people she didn’t even know, but who were touched by Angelina’s story. It’s amazing how a three-year-old girl with a rare disease has touched so many people’s lives.
Seated, left to right, are Dominique DeRubeis, Amanda Drews, Sarah Burton, and Keeley Carson, who along with Brigid Kennedy (not pictured), raised money for a seizure dog for Angelina Hentosz by selling “Ribbons of Love” to their classmates during lunch mods at Fort Couch Middle School.
Mrs. Hentosz is truly one of the most inspirational people I know. She never gives up hope, and she gives Angelina the best chance at life that she could possibly have. As of November 13, the Hentosz family reached their goal of $10,000 and now has a dog! The dog has been trained, and was brought to Angelina in December. I am so grateful that I can say that I was a part of
helping Angelina live a safer life. Angelina has taught me that anything is possible if you are open to a miracle. Every time I see her laugh or smile, it teaches me to not focus on the bad things in life, but rather cherish the good. Angelina Hentosz’s motto is “Flying on Faith, Living on Hope,” and I could not have thought of anything more suitable. n
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Angelina’s service dog, Gigi
Keeley Carson, a seventh grader at Fort Couch Middle School, is the daughter of Ellen and Joe Carson. Though the Hentoszs now have the dog, there are many other expenses associated with having a child with a disability, including medical bills and health care costs. To learn more, visit Angelina’s website at www.wishforangelina.com. Checks should be made payable to the “Angelina Hentosz Trust Fund.” Spring 2009
I may be able to help you. www.rdp-studio.com 412.818.1599 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Medallion Ball 2008
The Most Reverend David Zubik, Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, presided over the 2008 Medallion Ball held this past November. Tribute was paid to the honorees, which included 23 praiseworthy young women from Upper St. Clair. 2008 was Bishop Zubik’s premier presentation at the Medallion Ball. In 2007, Bishop Zubik came back to his hometown Pittsburgh, from Green Bay, Wisconsin. The grandson of Polish and Slovak immigrants, he is the only child of retired grocer Stanley Zubik and the late Susan Zubik of Ambridge. He entered the seminary after graduation from St. Veronica High School and completed his studies at Baltimore’s St. Mary Seminary in 1975. The bishop enthusiastically supports St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind and its mission, which encourages and inspires a lifetime commitment of volunteer service. Qualified candidates are honored with the Joan of Arc Medallion. Young women who have dedicated 100 or more hours of volunteer service are recognized with the Joan of Arc Medallion at the Medallion Ball. The visually impaired, by means of the Blind and Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh, benefit from the auxiliary’s magnanimous effort. At her Upper St. Clair home, Edyce Rizzi graciously hosted this year’s St. Lucy’s annual picnic, where 121 honorees from the Pittsburgh area were informally photographed by Donna Ocando.
Julia Aloe
Meredith Cain
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...they carry on the St. Lucy’s tradition of a rich heritage, a mission to serve, and the aspiration of a bright future.
Our community is very proud of these young women, their families, and the benevolent volunteers who made this celebrated event a stellar success. Congratulations! Escorting the USC honorees to the ball were (in alphabetical order): William Apfelbaum, James Baily, Jonathan Biery, Matthew Carroll, Stephen DiSalle, Eric Elliott, Thomas Hoffman, Jun Iida, Edward Jew IV, Zachary Joyce, Michael Kaufman, Adam Matonic, Michael McCurrie, Kevin McManus, Matthew Myron, Stephen Overby, Jason Powell, Michael Shogry, John Shue, Eric Surma, Stephen Wellard, James Wright, and Jeffery Wucher. n
Shannon Biery
Christina Caruso
Spring 2009
Kathleen Buehler
Emma Diehl
Paula Dixon
Bridget Fitzpatrick
Kristine Frisch
Grace Hardwick
Rebecca Hornak
Alivia Kandabarow
Elizabeth Kline
Megan Krantz
Alexandra Lee
Cara McShane
Taylor Montgomery
Amanda Ocando
Sarah Perrone
Christine Prorok
Ashlee Reefer
Katherine Sray
Alyssa Walker
Article by Mary Lynne Spazok. Photography courtesy of Ron Richards Photography Studio, Pittsburgh. Spring 2009
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USC Cheerleaders Make Bracelets for Cancer Gail McTiernan
USCHS freshman, JV, and varsity cheerleaders volunteered their time on Saturday, November 22 to assemble cancer awareness bracelets. Proceeds from the bracelet sales benefit the American Cancer Society. By the end of the morning the girls completed 155 multi-colored beaded bracelets, resulting in a donation of $1200 to the American Cancer Society. For $10 each, the multi-colored beads represent all types of cancer. Single color bracelet styles, each designating a different type of cancer, are also available at the same cost. Cindy Osbourne, a learning support aide at the high school, led the girls in the beading project. The idea for the bracelets grew out of Cindy’s desire to raise funds for her friend’s Relay for Life Team. “I projected that we would sell about 35 bracelets and make $300, and that would have been wonderful,” Cindy commented. But in less than a year, over 1000 bracelets have sold solely by word of mouth and have resulted in $8000 in donations to the American Cancer Society. “Many lives are touched by cancer and we want to do whatever we can to help in this fight,” Cindy added. “The cheerleaders’ efforts are tremendous! I am most appreciative of the positive things these young women are doing.” The cheerleaders continue to help to fulfill the demand for the bracelets by meeting on an ongoing basis. For more information or to purchase bracelets, contact Cindy Osbourne at cindy-oz@hotmail.com. n
Cheerleaders work on cancer awareness bracelets
n with
ha ariah Doo Pra and M ) a D y b b a ers G ject leader cheerlead ourne (pro Freshman Cindy Osb
Seated, left to rig ht, are JV Cheerle McTiernan, and aders Victoria W Julianne Tarullo agner, Erin . Standing are Ci leader) and Gail ndy Osbourne (p McTiernan (even roject t coordinator)
In the Spirit of Christmas
A group of neighborhood children from Upper St. Clair got into the true spirit of Christmas this past December when they, with the help of their parents, took up a collection of toys to donate to the Pediatrics Unit of St. Clair Hospital so hospitalized children would have brand new toys to play with over the holidays. The moms said they wanted the children to learn the importance of giving back. n Left to right are Carmella McNally, mom Joanne McNally, Evelyn Demsher (visiting from Wheaton, Illinois), Daniel Paulick, Kaylee Paulick, Johnny McNally, and mom Tami Paulick 78
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Spring 2009
Prof iles
What a Team!
$87 We’ve sold $75 million together since 2002. Interview us!
on USC People
R.N., to the newly St. Clair Hospital has named David L. Kish, es and Patient Servic gency created position of executive director of Emer , customer issues tional opera and gic Logistics. He will focus on strate nt. veme impro ss satisfaction, and proce ital in Pittsburgh Dave joins St. Clair from Allegheny General Hosp ency departemerg the of or direct where he most recently served as the Air Medical light LifeF the for ger mana as d ment. Prior to that, he serve emergency in ons nsible nursing positi Program, and in a variety of progressively respo services and intensive care. s with his wife, Terry, and their Dave serves USC as a volunteer firefighter. He reside n. two daughters, Nicole and Kriste On June 19, 2008, Donald Kosol Groves, University of South Carolina honors college student and McNair Scholar finalist, received a Gold Medal Congressional Award in the Cannon Office Building of the House of Rep resentatives in Washington, D.C. Thro ugh the Congressional Award, the U.S. Congress chal lenges young Americans to challeng e themselves, and recognizes young people who set and achieve goals in four areas: (1) volu ntary public service, (2) personal development, (3) phys ical fitness, and (4) expedition activ ities. To receive the award, recipients must perform a min imum of 400 hours of voluntary pub lic service. Don worked with a variety of local Pitts burgh charities, helped to develop a Help Alert Medical Database for elderly patients at St. Clair Hospital, and assisted in the planning, organizing, and coordinating of an internationa l student exchange program for high school students in Pittsburgh, with three counterpart high schools in Bangkok, Thailand. During summer 2008, Don complete d an internship in biomedical engineer ing at Hamad General Hospital in Doha, Qatar. Following the Qatar internship, Don also interned in the Neuro-Oncology Inst itute at Hillman Cancer Research Cen ter in Congratulating Don (second from left) are, left to right Pittsburgh and in the Epilepsy Monitori , ng Paxton Baker, Chairman of the Board of Directors, U.S. Unit at Presbyterian Hospital at the Uni- Congressional Award Foundation; U.S. Congressman versity of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Dr. Tim Murphy, 18th Congressional Distr ict of Pennsylvania; A 2007 USCHS graduate, Don is the U.S. Congressman Patri ck Murphy, 8th Congressional son of Luck and Gerald Groves. District of Pennsylvania; and U.S. Cong ressman Tim Holden, 17th Congressional District
(shown Doug Miller D e, eb bi e) w it h hi s w if November in was honored pi ce an d os H y at Fa m il e’s Toast to Palliative Car ily m Hospice seven years, Fa ate to have Life gala. For rt fo un Care has been is and Palliative golf benefit. H al lm of its annu he t e en th itm at g m m ou D d co lunteer work an y an m ed lp extraordinary vo he s ha tion’s mission ice to the organiza passionate hosp m co e iv ce re to ea ar e th in services.
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Dr. Vince Mosesso, medical di RSI physic rect attends to S or of UPMC Prehos ian and pi teelers’ Ben Roethlisber tal Care, carried off ger as Ben the field re is sulting from he incurred a concussio at the hom n e Steelers Browns ga vs. Clevela me on Dec nd ember 28, 2008.
Photo: Pitts
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une Review
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Happenings! Rotary Club Pancake Festival The Bethel-St. Clair Rotary Club (Dinner Club) is holding its “all-you-can-eat” 50th pancake festival on Saturday, March 7, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. at Westminster Church. Pancakes, sausage, and apple sauce are served, with a bake sale and auction also offered. Tickets are $7 adult, $5 child. To purchase advanced tickets, call Jim Bolas at 412-680-5708 or purchase tickets at the door. Upper St. Clair High School Musical— 42nd Street Sure to please and always a community sellout—USCHS spring musical! March 6-8 and 12-14. Call 412-851-2559 or visit www.usctheatre.org for ticket information. Orchid Show The Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania will sponsor its annual orchid show on Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Avenue (Fifth and Shady). Admission is free. The theme of this year’s show is “Orchid Reflections,” looking back on 40 years of OSWP’s annual orchid shows in Pittsburgh. Visitors will enjoy thousands of orchids in full bloom in beautifully staged exhibits and floral arrangements, including some for sale. As a special attraction, each day a series of free education classes and lectures will be offered, highlighting tips on growing orchids on your windowsill. For more information on the orchid show, orchids, or the Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania, visit www.oswp.org. Spring Craft Fair To benefit PRIME TIME Adult Care, Christ United Methodist Church in Bethel Park will host a spring craft fair on Saturday, March 28, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sixty-two tri-state area crafters will be there to offer beautiful, hand-made items. Lunch and refreshments will be served. A silent auction will be held. Wide isles, plenty of parking, and no admission fee are additional perks! Ukrainian Pysanky Sale On Sunday, April 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church will host its 43rd annual Pysanky sale. Located at 220 Mansfield Boulevard in Carnegie, sale items will include over 1200 Pysanky (Easter eggs), over 300 specialty eggs, and hand-crafted cultural items from Ukraine and Eastern Europe. The kitchen will serve a variety of Ukrainian foods. Church tours will be offered. For more information, call 412-527-5359 or 412-276- 0342. Flea Market The DeMarillac Guild will hold a flea market “Timeless Treasure,” Friday, April 17, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the LeGras Parish Center (lower level) on McMurray Road. Sales items will include gently used children’s clothing to 4T, toys, jewelry, decorative items, knick knacks, kitchen items, and holiday decorations.
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Spring 2009
Free Income Tax Assistance Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Site #141 will offer free tax service through April 15 at South Hills Bible Chapel, 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The doors of the church will not open before 8 a.m. No appointments; walk-ins only. Closed on Friday, April 10, in observance of Good Friday. VITA volunteers will assist taxpayers in the preparation of federal, state, and local tax returns as well as real estate/rent rebate forms and PACE forms. Individuals seeking assistance should bring pertinent tax documents, copies of Federal and state returns for the 2007 tax year, and any tax packages received in the mail. USC Spring Yard Debris Collection It’s time again to spring clean! Township collection of yard debris and leaf waste will take place on Saturday, April 25. Place your filled compostable paper bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. No other spring collection is scheduled. Swim Lessons Offered at High School Pool Eight lessons: April 14-17 and 20-23, 6-6:30 p.m., $88 Eight lessons: May 5-8 and 11-14, 6-6:30 p.m., $88 Phone or email your class request to Maritza Balta (412-835-2728, maritz723@comcast.net) or Coach Christy Rupp (724-942-3121, christyrupp@comcast.net). Diving lessons and private swim lessons are also available. Call for information. Family Hospice and Palliative Care Bereavement Groups: Family Hospice and Palliative Care offers bereavement group meetings in the local area. Call 412-572-8829 for locations and times. Pre-registration is not required. Meetings are free of charge. National Teleconference: Diversity and End-of-Life Care National Teleconference. Wednesday, April 29, 1:30-4 p.m. at Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s Center for Compassionate Care, 50 Moffett Street, Mt. Lebanon. Free of charge. Focus: How diversity influences end-of-life decision making and the impact that culture has at the time of death and during bereavement. Professionals and community members invited. For information or reservations, call 412-572-8747. Quilt Festival The Three Rivers Quilters will be hosting its 2009 quilt festival at the IBEW Circuit Center and Ballroom at 5 Hot Metal Street in Pittsburgh’s South Side. “Quilts in Motion,” a tribute to movement in quilting designs, will be held Thursday, April 16, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday, April 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission fee is $7 per person. For more information, visit www.threeriversquilters.org. Relay For Life Relay For Life is a fun-filled overnight community event designed to bring together local people who have been touched by cancer. The year’s event will be held at the Bethel Park Community Center beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 13. To register a cancer survivor, or start or join a team, contact Angela Giacchino of the American Cancer Society at 412-919-1072 or visit www.relayforlife.org/pasouthhills.
Autism Speaks Event a Winner
The second annual Autism Speaks Blue Tie event, held this past October, was a huge success! An evening of food, dancing, auction items, friendship, and charitable giving raised almost $70,000
for Autism Speaks, a nationwide foundation committed to research and funding for autism. For more information on Autism Speaks, visit www.autismspeaks.org. n
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Watermark Financial Event committee members, left to right, are Donna Lund, Marcie Reese, Pam Dillie, Debbie Hudak, Randi McKibben, Diane Lewis, Patty Yerina, Laura Lund, and Barb Feduska. (Missing from photo are Fran and Sue Prezioso, and Halley Snyder.)
Holiday Fundraiser—Delightful Success
The South Hills/USC office of
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services hosted its annual holiday breakfast and Chinese raffle fundraiser benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation® and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank this past December. With over 300 people in attendance, the event was a huge success, raising over $14,000 for both organizations. Kelly Frey, emcee of the event, pulled many winning tickets for the fabulous items that were donated for the event. Stella the Star from Make-A-Wish also made a guest appearance. “I was really impressed with how the agents from South Hills/USC office pulled together to collect donations, make the baskets, and get everything coordinated and set up for the event,” said office manager Barbara Boyle. “These truly are a remarkable group
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of people. Every donation makes a difference in someone’s life,” she added. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services in Pittsburgh is actively involved in the communities it serves. For more information, contact the South Hills/USC office of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services at 412-833-5405 or visit www.pittsburghmoves.com. n
The Hand Center of Pittsburgh
Thank You for Supporting Shop to Stop
The sixth annual Highmark Shop to Stop Domestic Violence event benefiting the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh was held this past November at the Galleria Mall in Mt. Lebanon. Guests were treated to fantastic shopping discounts, complimentary food and drink, a silent auction and basket raffle, and wonderful sounds from Shari Richards and Norman Nardini. Andrew Stockey from WTAE-TV served as emcee for the event and introduced the local models to the crowd. “It was great to see everyone come together to support such an important cause,” said Shirl Regan, executive director of the Women’s Center and Shelter. “Everyday we work towards ending intimate partner violence in the lives of women and their children, something we couldn’t do
without public support and concern.” One hundred percent of the funds raised go toward providing services free of charge to women and children victims of domestic violence. With domestic violence on the rise during times of economic hardship, it is more important than ever for the Women’s Center and Shelter to receive support from local businesses and community members. Last year, Women’s Center and Shelter answered over 5000 domestic violence related calls through its hotline, sheltered 560 women and children who spent 10,549 nights in shelter, counseled 610 women and children victims of domestic violence over 3721 hours, and offered 7204 hours of legal advocacy and support to 3196 victims through the WC&S legal department. n
To learn more about the Women’s Center and Shelter or to make a donation, visit the WC&S website at www.wcspittsburgh.org. If you or someone you know is in need of WC&S services, call the hotline at 412-687-8005. Spring 2009
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Band Festival Returns to Upper St. Clair for Sixth Big Year
Shown are performers from the 2008 band festival, co-directed by James Bennett (left) and Dean Streator (right). Photo credit: John Small
More bands, more music! That’s the plan for the sixth annual band festival that will bring together four of the best community bands in Western Pennsylvania, plus an all-new festival band. The festival is scheduled for 2:30-5 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. Theatre doors open at 2 p.m. WQED-FM’s Jim Cunningham again returns this year as the program host. Best of all admission is free. Contributions to support the festival are greatly appreciated, but not required. The Three Rivers Community Band Festival is truly a showcase of the many musically talented individuals in the region, and the concert promises a medley of songs that will appeal to a wide range of musical tastes. Community Band South represents the South Hills communities. This brass, woodwind, and percussion band of over 80 members is co-directed by Dean Streator, former teacher of Instrumental Music at Bethel Park High School, and James Bennett, retired director of Bands and chairman of Fine Arts from the Upper St. Clair School District. Since its premier concert on December 14, 1987, at Upper St. Clair High School, Community
Band South has been entertaining audiences throughout the communities from which its membership is drawn, performing an average of 15 shows each year. Other bands participating are the East Winds Symphonic Band, founding band of the festival, the North Suburban Symphonic Band, and the West Hills Symphonic Band. The fifth band will be the “ultimate community band,” made up of musicians from over 20 community bands in Allegheny County and ten other counties in the region. The festival band will perform selections under the baton of guest conductor Elisabeth Heath-Charles, musical director and conductor of the Butler County Symphony Orchestra. This performance will be the exciting finale to a wonderful afternoon of music. Festival-goers are invited to enjoy free light refreshments after the concert as well as take the opportunity to meet the musicians. For more information about the Three Rivers Community Band Festival, visit www.ewsb.org/festival. n
Caregiver Training
Rafael J. Sciullo, MA, LCSW, MS
Rachel wants to take her husband, Peter, home from the hospital. Although Peter will receive hospice services at home, Rachel is nervous about taking care of her husband. Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s new Caregiver Training Program was created for people like Rachel, who want to bring their loved one home, but are apprehensive about having the skills to provide the necessary care. The first of its kind in the nation, the Caregiver Training Program provides caregivers with the knowledge and skill they will need to be both capable and confident. Because so much of hospice care is delivered at home, family and friends often give the majority of care, such as providing the physical care, administrating medications, and providing nutrition. Some caregivers are uneasy about moving their loved one from a bed to a wheelchair, feeding techniques, and when to call the hospice nurse for additional help. At the training, caregivers will not only have the opportunity to practice moving, lifting, and turning patients, they will also have the chance to talk with the medical director and meet with many of the other staff including physical therapists, social workers, and spiritual care counselors. Caregivers often feel isolated at home; the training program provides them with reassurance through sharing their experiences and gaining support from each other. “Simple things can be painfully difficult for families,” says Lillian Sweeney, nurse educational coordinator, and program instructor. “By educating caregivers in a calm atmosphere, they can process the information more easily and feel less stressed. As a hospice nurse, I saw the benefits of a more confident caregiver.” 82
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Spring 2009
Optimally, caregivers will be able to attend the training program before their loved one is discharged from the hospital. If the patient is already at home, then a hospice volunteer will sit with the patient so the caregiver can attend the program. If needed or desired, a caregiver could come more often to the training. The program is designed for the caregivers of Family Hospice and Palliative Care patients. It will be offered every Tuesday at The Center for Compassionate Care in Mt. Lebanon. Reservations are required to be made at least a day in advance. Family Hospice and Palliative Care is the largest, independent, community-based hospice provider in Western Pennsylvania and has the only inpatient hospice facility in the South Hills. n For more information about the Caregiver Training Program or Family Hospice and Palliative Care services, call 412-572-8800 or visit www.familyhospice.com. Rafael J. Sciullo is the president and CEO of Family Hospice and Palliative Care and past chairperson of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. He can be reached at rsciullo@familyhospice.com or 412-572-8800.
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Want to be a Real Guitar Hero? Award-winning performer and teacher now accepting students – beginners to advanced players of all ages. USC Location. References Available. Call or Email
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The Children’s Home—a Family Plan
USC residents Eric and Betsy Boughner always wanted
to have a big family. Three years ago, through the help of a local nonprofit, the Boughners adopted their first child. And now, this past December, Betsy gave birth to their third child. In August 2005, Eric and Betsy Boughner adopted their daughter, Annie, from The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh and Lemieux Family Center, an independent, non-profit licensed organization that promotes the health and well-being of infants and children through services which establish and strengthen the family. The Children’s Home’s infant adoption program supports birthparents and adoptive parents and their children throughout all stages of the adoption process and beyond. “We felt that The Children’s Home really prepared us for the entire process,” says the Boughners. “The counseling was one of the most important parts. Our counselors really tried to prepare us for all scenarios that we might encounter. It was a good feeling knowing that someone had our best interest at heart.” A year later, there was a surprising second addition to the Boughner family when Betsy gave birth to their son, Gregory. “While we were going through the adoption process, people kept saying that ‘everything will work out’ or that ‘there is a plan for you and your family’,” says Betsy. “After we adopted Annie and found out that we were pregnant with Gregory, Eric and I looked at each other
and realized that there was a plan for us with Annie. She was meant to be our daughter. We just had to go a different route to start our family. We were very excited to give her a baby brother.” The Boughners recently welcomed their third child, Beatrice, in December. Even with their three children, they remain active with the organization that has become dear to their hearts in order to help families who are in similar situations. While working full-time at the Bank of New York Mellon, Eric has volunteered to serve on The Children’s Home’s board of directors since fall 2006. Betsy is also very active in the organization, and this year is serving as one of the co-chairs of “Shake Your Booties,” an annual gala held to raise money for the programs and services of The Children’s Home. “The Children’s Home allowed us to have a family,” said Betsy. “We feel honored and blessed to be actively involved with The Children’s Home. It’s a special place to us and to many families in the area who have benefited from the organization’s programs and services.” This year’s Shake Your Booties gala is being held on Saturday, March 7 in the upper lobby of the U.S. Steel Tower. The event will feature silent and live auctions, dinner and cocktails, and entertainment. n For more information about Shake Your Booties or The Children’s Home and Lemieux Family Center, visit www.childrenshomepgh.org. Spring 2009
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Advertiser Index
of
15 Years Publication
Spring 2009 Advertiser
Page
Action Builders .................................................................................................. 45 Affordable Decks & Additions ............................................................................ 47 Al Lorenzi Design Center ..................................................................................... 2 * Amel’s Restaurant . ............................................................................................. 27 Ameriprise Financial Services, John D. Link . .................................................... 67 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ...................................................................................... 49 * ARAMARK . ........................................................................................................ 33 Baxter Remodeling ............................................................................................. 48 Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company .............................................................. 44 Brookside Lumber Company . ............................................................................ 50 Cafe J Restaurant & Lounge . ............................................................................. 26 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service . ............................................................................. 57 California University of Pennsylvania . ................................................................. 4 * Carlson Wagonlit Travel ..................................................................................... 43 Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior ......................................... 83 Chatham University . .......................................................................................... 15 Cherup, Lori, L., MD, FACS ................................................................................. 9 * Clark Construction Company ............................................................................. 44 * Coffey Contracting Company ............................................................................. 47 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate . ............................Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria ......................................................... 22 * Coldwell Banker–USC, South Hills Offices ........................................................ 23 Coldwell Banker–Waterdam Farms .................................................................... 61 Crandall, Steven R., D.M.D. ............................................................................... 41 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. . ..................................................................................... 74 D&M Chiropractic and Therapeutic Rehab, Inc. ................................................. 69 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ................................................................................. 49 Davin Interiors, LLC ........................................................................................... 51 * Deckmasters Technologies Incorporated ............................................................ 49 “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc. ........................................................................... 48 Extended Day Services . ..................................................................................... 34 F.E. HARMON, INC. . .......................................................................................... 79 * Ferry Electric . .................................................................................................... 47 Fournier Carpentry . ........................................................................................... 49 Friendship Village of South Hills ....................................................................... 69 * George Girty Landscape Design ......................................................................... 47 Handyman Matters ............................................................................................. 51 * Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ......................................................................................... 15 * Henderson Brothers, Inc. ................................................................................... 71 * Howard Hanna Real Estate Services ...........................................Front inside cover Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh . ............................................................... 75 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley .......................................................................... 33
The staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY would like to thank our advertisers, who make possible this community publication.
Advertiser
Page
* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath . ......................................................................... 39 Ian Arthurs–Guitar Instructor ............................................................................. 83 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ................................................. 57 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry . ................................................................. 42 Kindercare of Mt. Lebanon ................................................................................. 37 Learning Express Toys ....................................................................................... 65 * Lesko Builders and Remodelers ......................................................................... 83 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ................................................................................... 43 * Master Remodelers, Inc. .................................................................................... 46 McClintock & Associates, P.C. . ......................................................................... 59 McMahon Financial, LLC . ................................................................................... 9 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy .................................................. 83 Northwood Realty–Bonnie Detwiler and Marlene McNaughton . ........................ 79 Paragon Homes ................................................................................................... 7 Pepperoni’s Restaurant . ..................................................................................... 83 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................................ 42 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ...................................................................... 42 Pittsburgh Audiology ......................................................................................... 34 Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra ........................................................................ 11 Port Authority Services ...................................................................................... 83 Providence Point . .......................................................................Back inside cover * Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South ........................................................ 3 RDP Studio Ltd. ................................................................................................. 75 Rohrich Cadillac ................................................................................................ 61 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ........................................................................ 45 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................................ 27 Seton Hill University .......................................................................................... 21 South Hill OBGYN, Drs. Rankin & Warner, MD, FACOG ...................................... 7 * South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C. . ............................................ 19 * St. Clair Hospital . ................................................................................................ 1 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy . ................................................................ 42 Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, P.C. ............................................................ 59 The Hand Center of Pittsburgh ........................................................................... 81 The Mt. Lebanon Counseling Group .................................................................. 65 * The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts .....................................Front cover, 12, 13 Township of Upper St. Clair Community Recreation Center ............................... 56 * Valley Brook Family Dental–Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD . ..................................... 37 Watermark Financial .......................................................................................... 81 Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas ................................................................ 36 Westminster Presbyterian Church ...................................................................... 67 Wild Rosemary Bistro......................................................................................... 27 Wright’s Seafood Inn .......................................................................................... 27
Classifieds
To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Advertise with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, in publication since 1994. Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 • Fax: 412-851-2592 Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine • Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us *The above VIP advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 28 issues.
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Upcoming guides for the Summer 2009 issue include Dining, Home & Garden, and Summer Activities. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2009
? S R E T T I J C I ECONOM ce Point, t Providen a ts n u o c t Living. ime Dis Retiremen re ie Limited-T m re P time of For a Life
Don’t Lower Your Retirement Expectations.
Lower Your Costs.
New incentives make a point about the economy: Providence Point. #1. Enjoy a 5% discount on the entrance fee. This applies to any available apartment on the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th floor, and any available Patio Homes.
#2. Save on monthly fees for a limited time only. Reserve a residence with a
10% deposit, then save up to $2,000 per month on your monthly fees after you move in. This offer applies from June 2009 through December 2009, so the sooner you move in, the more you save.
#3. Brand new Patio Home model. If you really want to know what it feels like to be at home at Providence Point, stop by and take a tour of our new fully furnished Patio Home model. Three new reasons to call us at 412-276-4500 and keep a first-class retirement well within your reach.
Please join us for a special incentivized luncheon: q I would like to attend on Number attending: pittsburgh’s first choice in retirement living
Please mail reply coupon to: 1145 Bower Hill Road Suite 101 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 (412) 276-4500
www.ProvidencePoint.org PRO100045[7.5X10]USC.indd 1
th q q April 14th q18th April 29th qMarch March18 4th q March Event held at St. Clair Country Club
q I am unable to attend, but please send me more information on Providence Point. Name Address City
State
Zip
Phone Email
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