SPRING 2016 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

SPRING 2016

A South Hills remodeling company defies the odds for more than 47 years www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home

The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

ROBBINS BOBBITT SALES DIRECTOR

Bonnie Bagay

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Upper St. Clair Office 180 Fort Couch Rd, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-833-3600 â&#x20AC;˘ HowardHanna.com

David Glorioso, MD • David Limauro, MD • Mark Cedar, DO • Nicholas Bellicini, DO • Lisa Oliva, DO • Xuong Lu, MD

MARCH IS

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Our practice is committed to providing state-of-the-art care to our patients, treating all gastrointestinal problems and screenings through a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic options. All of our physicians are board certified in Gastroenterology. Colorectal cancer is the second most deadly cancer and screening for colorectal cancer can save your life. The South Hills Endoscopy Center is a state-of-the-art facility providing colonoscopy and upper endoscopy screenings and services. Our medical staff and office personnel strive to work as a team to provide you with quality medical services in a pleasant and professional atmosphere.

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EALING TOUCH... EXPANDING OUR TO PETERS TOWNSHIP

Sherri H. Chafin, M.D.

Raye J. Budway, M.D.

Tara L. Grahovac, M.D.

St. Clair Hospital Breast Care Center Now In Two Convenient Locations The area’s leading, most comprehensive Breast Care Center is expanding its expertise to Peters Township. Located within the St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center, our team of breast surgeons, diagnostic radiologists, medical and radiation oncologists, nurse navigators, and plastic and reconstructive surgeons helps guide patient care every step of the way. As one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals®, St. Clair continues to invest in the healthcare of our communities with exceptional physicians, technologies and processes to deliver superior outcomes.

BREAST SURGERY

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Raye J. Budway, M.D. earned her medical degree at Hahnemann University in Philadelphia. She completed her residency training in general surgery at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital and a fellowship in surgical critical care at UPMC. She previously served as the Site Program Director for the Allegheny General Hospital General Surgery Residency Program, and Director of the Surgical Breast Disease Program and Surgical Intensive Care at West Penn Hospital. She is board-certified in surgical critical care and general surgery. She is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and serves on the Fellowship’s Commission on Cancer.

Tara L. Grahovac, M.D. specializes in breast surgery. She earned her medical degree at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Grahovac completed her residency in general surgery at Allegheny General Hospital, and a fellowship in breast surgery at Magee Womens Hospital of UPMC.

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Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SIMPLIFY Be seen in

’16

Spring 2016 • Volume 22 • Issue 1 www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home

Features & Around the Township 16

Coach’s Corner, featuring Terry Hammons

Sound Training and Racing for Busy Adult Runners

Judge Arnoni Discusses Distracted Driving

Medallion Ball 2015

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usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

School District 28

Township 46

1:1 Learning Initiative USC’s Ellie Stoehr Retires

Partners in Education

Celebrate iCAN!

Did You Know?

Pawprints

USC’s Comprehensive Plan Adopted Department of Finance Budget Highlights

Boxed Benefits at the C&RC

Have Some 3D Fun @ the Library

Guides/ Directories 42 Pinebridge 64 Home Improvement 84 Advertiser Index Photo Ops 52 Bounty at Boyce

Mayview Park Fall Fest

82 Celebrating Veterans Day

A Little Dirt Won’t Hurt

Cover

Golden Girls

Shown on the cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a kitchen redo, highlighting cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash by Clark Renovations, sponsor of this edition. See pages 12 and 13 for a feature article on this established South Hills remodeling company.

14 Bees at Gilfillan

61 The Outdoor Classroom 36 USCHS Girls’ Soccer 54 Flood Protection

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

62 Heroes of the Fire Service

The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine that is dedicated to promoting

the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year marks 22 years of our publication.

The 85th 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.

Summer 2016 edition deadlines: Articles—March 10 Advertising—March 14

Fall 2016 edition deadlines: Articles—June 16 Advertising—June 20

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, Advertising Executive Lynn Dempsey, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Alison Hess, Marketing Executive

Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Lynn Dempsey, Dorothy Clark, and Alison Hess. 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.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Summer 2016 issue and will be published in May 2016. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to:

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed above. Add $10 to cover international mailings.

Editor

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising Information

Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Website www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Board of School Directors

Buffy Z. Hasco, President Angela B. Petersen, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Barbara L. Bolas Phillip J. Elias Patrick A. Hewitt Frank J. Kerber Harry F. Kunselman Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 6

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Board of Commissioners Mark D. Christie, President, Ward 4 Rex A. Waller, Vice President, Ward 2 Nicholas J. Seitanakis, Ward 1 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Russell R. Del Re, At Large Daniel R. Paoly, At Large (Director and Commissioner photos, shown on pages 28 and 44, are provided courtesy of M&M Photography.)

Spring 2016

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Daniel Barr, Cindy Brophy, Maureen Chermak, Deb Conn, John D’Angelo, Lisa Davis, Vivian Dibrell, Heather Holtschlag, Amy Kerman, Jessica Kester, David Kutschbach, Jay Lynch, Jim Meston, Brianna Murgi (YWG), Jim O’Brien, Helen Palascak, Doug Petrick, Jim Render, Emanuel Romanias, Ron Sarrick, Mary Lynne Spazok, Katie Stringent, Marilyn Walsh, and Brad Wilson. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsc.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute. The 85th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Knepper Press 2251 Sweeney Drive, Clinton, PA 15026-1818 724-899-4274 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com

Real Estate Agents Who Make a Real Difference!

Terry Abbott

Barbara Baker

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Frank Conroy & Florine Kelly

Brian & Karen Cummings

Bob Dini

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Liz Hoyson

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Michele Schocker & Ruth Weigers

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Tony Mete Manager

Let us help you find your way home! Call one of our award-winning Mt. Lebanon Regional sales associates

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A Spring Note from the Publishers Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole

Matthew R. Serakowski

Welcome to a new year and to the spring 2016 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. At the first glimpse of spring, people emerge from their cocoons, reinvigorate a more social behavior, and feel a bit more energetic about life in general. Our residents are no exception to these sensations as we doff our gloves, scarves, and knit caps to welcome the lengthening daylight hours, increasingly mild temperatures, and desire to get out and about. While setting your sights on spring, invest some time to read this issue’s many articles that will stimulate your passion for learning and sense of adventure. The School District section (pages 28–41) highlights the accomplishments of our students in academics, the arts, and athletics. Various articles, including the District’s 1:1 Learning Initiative, USC’s National Merit scholars, CalcuSolve wrap up, the PIAA championship USCHS girls’ soccer team, and an overview of each school building’s activities as reported by our Parent/Teacher organizations’ presidents will surely get you enthused for what’s going on in our award-winning District. As a feature story on adult running, see page 18 where two of our District’s teachers give great advice about this lifelong sport. The Township’s stage is set for learning and activity. With interesting and engaging classes and events, adult and youth education is never ending at the Township Library. Get involved! The Community & Recreation Center is active seven days a week. Among many options for both adults and children, learn about a boxing class offered at the C&RC and what our senior group is doing. Another article tells of the advantages of being at your best physically to help when you recuperate from an injury. Read it, and then act upon it. The Outdoor Classroom is warming up for its spring and summer offerings. Why not investigate the outdoors and learn with the Classroom? (See calendar of events on page 61.) To read these stories and others, including an overview of Upper St. Clair’s visionary ten-year Comprehensive Plan, see the Township section (pages 44–63) of the magazine. So, whether your attention is directed at our schools or to our community, or both, it’s time to get out and greet this season of renewal with vigor. The indoors are good, but the outdoors are better! Take the time to reintroduce yourself to your neighbor and conquer one of those pesky “to-do” projects around the house, using our helpful Home Improvement guide found on pages 64–68. Happy spring from the publishers, staff, and volunteers at TODAY, and many thanks to the advertisers who financially and wholeheartedly support our community publication.

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools

Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 • Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org

Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 • Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us

TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Defying the Odds for More Than 47 Years For more than 47 years, Clark Renovations, the company founded by Ron Clark, has been remodeling the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Starting out in his own garage in 1969 as many local remodelers do, Ron and his brother, Chris, teamed up with Lou Angelo to form a company that would years later become one of the premier remodeling corporations in the country. In 2014, the company transitioned to its second generation of management when Ron’s son, Steve, took over as president of the corporation. Now conducting business out of two locations on Industrial Boulevard in Bethel Park, Clark Renovations is recognized as one of the largest and most respected residential remodelers in the nation. Each year, Remodeling Magazine ranks the top remodelers in the country based on revenue and business practices. In 2015, Clark Renovations was ranked #155 out of the top 550 remodelers in the nation.

Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and doors, Clark Renovations uses only the finest quality products and employs its own highly skilled craftsmen to ensure your job is completed properly and on time. The company’s beautiful showroom, located at 3180 Industrial Boulevard in Bethel Park, provides visual examples of the quality and craftsmanship you can expect when you choose to contract your next project with Clark Renovations. When asked about the secret to the company’s continued success, Steve Clark provided the following startling statistics and response. The remodeling industry in general is fighting a poor reputation based on a large number of unscrupulous and incompetent individuals passing themselves off as “professionals.” The National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators reports that complaints against home improvement contractors are ranked second highest in the nation, just behind the auto industry. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has tried to combat this problem by requiring contractors working within the state to register and obtain a Home Improvement Contractor license. Reputable companies are able to provide evidence of this license upon request. 12

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“Even legitimate remodeling companies have a tough time staying in business. Statistics show that 40% fail in the first year, 70% fail by year five, and only six percent survive their tenth anniversary, which leaves customers with worthless warranties and little to no recourse.”

Clark Renovations’ “secret” really isn’t much of a secret at all, according to Steve. “We take care of our customers like they are family and, in return, they take care of us by coming back for more,” says Steve. “Unlike many other industries, our customers invite us into their homes to complete projects along side their families, pets, and valuables. Our crews treat these homes as their own, making sure to leave them neat and clean at the end of each work day.” Eighty-five percent of Clark Renovations’ business each year comes from repeat clients and referrals. Over the past four decades, Clark Renovations has developed close working relationships with the company’s suppliers and tradesmen, which allows them to complete projects efficiently. When issues arise (and they do), Clark can quickly and effectively resolve roadblocks and keep projects on track and on budget. The end result is a very high level of customer satisfaction. Prospective clients are invited to visit Clark’s showroom and leaf through the customer surveys that are kept on file. “They are all there to be viewed, not just the perfect ones!” says Steve. The showroom is another aspect of Clark Renovations’ business that sets them apart. Customers can make all of their selections without having to drive around town from place to place, which saves them time and aggravation. “We try our best to make the whole process as simple for our customers as possible,” remarks Steve.

If you are looking for a new kitchen, bathroom, windows, or doors, Clark Renovations—a family business built upon years of highly satisfied customers located right here in the South Hills of Pittsburgh—is the choice for you. To contact them, call 412-833-7222, visit them online at www.CLARKREMODELING.com, or stroll through their showroom located at 3180 Industrial Boulevard, Bethel Park 15102. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Bees are a Buzzin’ at Gilfillan Mary Lynne Spazok

If the bee disappears off the surface of the globe, then man would have only four years of life left. No more bees, no more pollination, no more plants, no more animals, no more man.—Albert Einstein Gilfillan’s seasoned honey farmer, apiarist John Crist agrees with Einstein and asserts, “Bees are important indicators for the health of our ecosystem. When something is wrong with our bees, something is wrong in the environment! One out of every three bites of food we eat is pollinated by bees. In North America alone, honey bees pollinate nearly 95 kinds of fruits and nuts, including almonds, avocados, cranberries, and apples. Each of us relies on bees and their pollination services every day.” To sustain a chemical-free, responsible apiary is a labor of love. You will find John at Gilfillan Farm early in the day overseeing the farmstead’s bee boxes. Besides the initial monetary investment in the hive (or box) and the queen and her court, quality honey harvest takes time, energy, and dedication. Consumer education is paramount as demonstrated by John’s tools of Tools of the trade the trade exhibit. Is raw or organic honey superior? Is local honey better? Where can I buy quality grocery store honey? Which floral varietal is best? John’s advice is “Let the buyer beware!” First, all honey is not created equal. Second, educate yourself about raw unfiltered versus supermarket varieties. Apart from the type of nectar collected by the bees, multiple factors related to the floral source influence its quality, including weather, soil, landscape, and pollution. Other determinants are beekeeping practices, ethics, legal policies, and the use of invasive chemicals to fight Varroa destructor mites and small hive beetles. John states, “My foremost advice is to choose unadulterated and macrobiotic raw honey directly from a trusted, regional beekeeper. If you possess the passion of going the extra mile to trace your nutrition source, request an on-site harvesting visit.” Honey flavor nuances change constantly. Each year, honey diversity varies due to rainfall, nectar sources, and sunlight, affecting what flowers, plants, and trees are in bloom when bees collect nectar and pollen. Taste is subjective and personal, so not every variety is going to “wow” everyone. If you are using honey in a beverage and in recipes, experiment with a few varietals. The taste of honey labelled “floral blend” Q: What did the bee say or “multiflora” varies according to to the flower? the different floral types from which A: Hello honey! the nectar is collected. If you are not satisfied with eating honey from unidentified floral varietals, then explore Pennsylvania’s mono-floral varietals, including distinctive flavors like knotweed honey, goldenrod, clover, and buckwheat.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

Refined sugar vs. honey Replacement and elimination of refined sugar (empty calories) in your nutritional regime is a positive step to reclaiming and rejuvenating your health. In a recent study, the average American consumes 175 pounds of sugar a year, which equates to 46 teaspoons a day! With no nutritional value, sugar robs the body of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. So, when beekeepers are not accessible and the local farmers market is out of season, “for-profit” grocery store honey can be satisfactory. However, an enlightened consumer should read the product label and seek “true source certified.” There is a contrast between honey syrup (flavored corn syrup, cane sugar) and unprocessed honey. “Certified organic” quantifies a set of stringent organic standards (Organic Agriculture Certification Council) which includes nectar source, foraging area, bee management, and extraction process. Even a bargain hunter should think twice about tainted import foodstuffs, which may not be guaranteed free of pesticide or environmental pollutants. The United States imports Chinese honey, which is notorious for containing the antibiotic chloramphenicol to deter bees from falling ill. The European Union prohibits Chinese honey imports; however, U.S. imports are re-packaged and deceitfully sold as “local.” Although all honey is natural (derived from the nectar of flowers), not all honey is “raw” or pure. Import honey is heated and pasteurized to retain shelf life. Americans consume 450 million tons of honey a year—three times the 150 million tons produced in the U.S. annually (statistic from the U.S. Department of Agriculture). It is extremely difficult for boutique beekeepers to compete with mega exporters’ second-rate foreign honey. Consumers often feel it’s impractical to support relatively pricey local honey when faced with budgetary constraints and limited spending power. A bee is an exquisite chemist.—Royal beekeeper to Charles II Where would we be without bees? As nature’s critical pollinators, scientists have determined that bees pollinate 70 of the approximate one hundred crop species that feed 90% of the world. Bees are losing habitat due to intensive monoculture-based farming, pristine green (flower-barren) suburban lawns, and the destruction of native landscapes. Simply by planting flowers in your garden, yard, or a planter, bees will forage. Plant plenty of the same type of bloom in mass since bees thrive on volume (a square yard is a good estimate). Avoid chemical treatments (neo-nicotinoid chemicals and pesticides), which negatively affect the bees’ autoimmune system and are major culprits in Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) of bees. Fertilize with mushroom manure and mulch with organic compost. And don’t forget hydration. No fountain or stream nearby? A shallow vessel filled with water, preferably filtered, is a great alternative.

Seasonal plantings: • In spring, plant fragrant lilacs, lavender, sage, verbena, wisteria • In summer, plant mint, squash, tomatoes, pumpkins, oregano, rosemary, honeysuckle • In fall, plant sunflower, sage, verbena, toadflax Contrary to popular belief, a lawn full of clover and dandelions is not just a good thing, it’s a great thing! A haven for honeybees and other native pollinators, let your lawn live a little. Wildflowers, many of which we might classify as weeds, are some of the most important food sources for native North American bees. If some of these are weeds you choose to banish (i.e., a blackberry bush that is taking over your yard), let it bloom for the bees, and then before it goes to seed, remove or trim. Honey bee colonies were shipped to the Virginia colony from England in 1622. According to provincial archives, honey bees were present in Connecticut in 1644, New York (Long Island) in 1670, Pennsylvania in 1698, North Carolina in 1730, Georgia in 1743, Mississippi (Natchez) in 1770, Alabama (Mobile) in 1773, Kentucky in 1780, Ohio in 1788, and Illinois in 1820. During England’s taxation of America, colonists consumed honey rather than highly-taxed sugar. Apiarists marketed honey and beeswax, a key source of income through the making of candles, lipstick, shoe polish, and wine bottle stoppers. Medicinal qualities included topical applications for burns, wounds, and ulcers. Honey Mead, an intoxicating wine infusion, was brewed, sipped, and marketed. Entrepreneur, founding father, and luminary Benjamin Franklin professed, “Nothing but money is sweeter than honey!” Bees are amazing! An average worker bee makes only about 1/12 teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. Social insects and cousins to wasps and ants, bees are incredible flora pollinators. As a side job, they yield worthy products, including beeswax, pollen, and royal jelly. Visit apiarist John Crist on USC Community Day, Saturday, May 21, at the Gilfillan farm. He affirms, “Bees have much to teach us, they fascinate us; they are beautiful, and their importance to mankind is beyond measure.” n

I eat my peas with honey I’ve done it all my life It makes the peas taste funny But it keeps them on the knife! — Ogden Nash (1902-1971)

The hives

A Note from Apiarist John Crist My apiarist training began in August 2010, when I was initiated into the “Culture of Bees” at the South Park demonstration garden. John Crist with his dog, Brody Eager to learn, I attended a ninehour beekeeping class hosted by Burgh Bees Urban Beekeeping Club. My fate was sealed when I bought two unassembled hives and commenced keeping bees. As a member of the Beaver Valley and Washington County Beekeepers Association, Pittsburgh’s Burgh Bees, and Pennsylvania State Beekeepers Association, conference travel includes Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Vermont, and Kentucky. My lifetime profession is a clergyman and I have an undergraduate college degree in music. In California, I attended seminary school at the Claremont School of Theology, receiving a doctorate of religion in 1975. Following a three-year pastorate in Santa Monica, I focused on clinical training in institutional chaplaincy, which brought me to Western Pennsylvania. Before retiring in 2003, I was the Protestant chaplain at Mayview State Hospital for 25 years. I surely hope to see you at Gilfillan Farm for USC’s Community Day on Saturday, May 21. Honeybees… discover their wonder! Email me at cristjd@yahoo. com with any question you might have. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Coach’s Corner Featuring Terry Hammons, #3 Jim Render, USCHS Football Coach

The number “3.” This will be the third former player profile I have written about since resuming my volunteer efforts for UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. You may want to keep that number in mind as you continue to read forward. For the record, it’s January 3, 2016, as I begin to organize my words and thoughts about another great Upper St. Clair football Panther. To set the stage, I travel back to 1965 to East Liverpool, Ohio, where my coaching life began. I met several men that for all intents and purposes have influenced my life. One of them still affects me 50 years later, at least once a month. His name is Frank Dawson, a mortician, author, public speaker, fundraiser, and an all around booster of many things that make life better for others. As the son of a mortician, he goes by the nickname “Digger.” Between the two of us, we have so many stories that have been told and retold that we’ve thought about numbering them just to save time. Story number one: Digger has a friend who also grew up in East Liverpool whom he talks about frequently. As a young man, he was a skinny guy who never made it past the third string on the East Liverpool Potter football team. He was also slow afoot. He never had a date, never kissed a girl, never went to the prom, and spoke with a lisp. Academics were somewhat of a struggle. After he graduated from high school, he decided to give college a try and bummed a ride to Kent State University. Things got better for the young man and he became a football coach. Like many coaches, he started at the bottom and worked hard. At the peak of his career, he became head coach at the University of Notre Dame, where he won a national championship and was often invited to play golf with several United States presidents. Today, Lou Holtz, the high school kid with a speech impediment, is retired from coaching and recently finished a career as a commentator for ESPN. At this point, some of you may be wondering just what does this Ohio history lesson have to do with a former player from Upper St. Clair? Read on. Like Coach Holtz, Terry Hammons also had a few mountains to climb before he attained success. Both men moved into their eventual hometowns as grade school students. Terry was a small kid in the second grade at Baker Elementary School. He was shy, somewhat introverted, and was considered different, being a young African American student in a school that was mainly Caucasian. Equal opportunity was not exactly a way of life in those days. His father, Terry, Sr., taught him that “if you are just as good, you won’t get a break, you must be better.” Terry, Jr. learned and applied many lessons taught by his father and his mother, Anita. Following his days at Baker, Terry moved on to his developmental years at Fort Couch Middle School, where he played football, basketball, and traveling baseball. In our recent discussions, he stated that all he really wanted to do was to play football on Friday nights for the USC Panthers. He revealed that 16

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Spring 2016

Terry Hammons, wearing #3 for William and Mary

he had three heroes whom he admired and wanted to follow in their footsteps. They were Walter Payton, Jerry Rice, and Steve Tazza. Most of you know Hall of Famers Payton and Rice. Some of you will remember Tazza as an outstanding USC football and basketball athlete who matriculated to the United States Naval Academy where he played defensive back for the Midshipmen football team. A young Terry Hammons gave Steve Tazza a lot of credit for coaching him as a youth football player. Terry recalls that Steve was a no-nonsense guy and coach who evaluated players for their efforts and ability. With no secondary agenda or bias, Steve gave Terry the only thing he wanted—an opportunity. In 1987, Terry arrived at Upper St. Clair High School, all 5' 5" and 140 lbs. of him. I might add that there were already some pretty good athletes who were waiting for their turn, too. However, the young man who was assigned jersey #3 became a big contributor in 1988, his sophomore year. By the end of that season, Terry was playing safety, corner, and flanker and was returning kicks. The team played excellent football down the stretch that year, shutting out the last four teams and winning the WPIAL championship. In 1989, we shut out the first four teams and went on to win the Pennsylvania state championship with a 15–0 record, being crowned the first team in history to win 15 games in one season. For all his efforts, Terry was elected captain in 1990, his senior year. He was a leader both on and off the field. His six touchdowns and six interceptions landed him a coveted spot in the Big 33 game in the summer of 1991. The team’s two-year record during his junior and senior years was 24-1-1. Ten years after entering the second grade at Baker Elementary, this little guy had cleared the many obstacles and hurdles that were put in his path. He graduated from USC as an All State defensive back, team captain, member of the National Honor Society, and a valedictorian of the Class of 1991. He was ready to go on to college. Originally, Terry had no thoughts about playing college football; but now, he was being recruited by coaches from Duke, Richmond, Vanderbilt, and Harvard, and was in the process of receiving an appointment to the Naval Academy. Not a bad group of choices. One of USC’s sociology teachers, Sue Hughes, insisted that he visit the College of William and Mary. A friend of mine, Coach Russ Huessman, was the defensive backfield coach there at the time and convinced Terry to squeeze in a visit after leaving Vanderbilt. Terry traveled to Williamsburg, Virginia, for a very unusual Monday and Tuesday visit. He met three men who greatly influenced his college decision. The first was head coach Jimmye Laycock, whose 37 years at William and Mary parallels my career at USC. The second was Reggie Clark, who was then vice-provost of the college. In Terry’s words, “Reggie was the first AfricanAmerican whom I had seen, let alone spoken to, that held such

a high level position at any academic institution. The time he spent with me made an indelible mark and ultimately shaped my decision.” The clincher was the third guy Terry met, who served as his unofficial host while on his visit to William and Mary. They ultimately became teammates, roommates, and fraternity brothers. They were both wide receivers. Both went on to become superstars in their chosen professions. Their jobs have taken them to various cities. Terry recently moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. Ironically, the other fellow resides in Pittsburgh and works long hours for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is head coach Mike Tomlin. If you want to see Coach Tomlin smile, ask him about Terry Hammons. While visiting the Steelers’ practice facility one day, I asked Mike what he would say to Terry before he went out to catch a punt. Coach Tomlin laughed and said, “I reminded him that he was a small man and this is a tough game. Don’t drop the ball.” As for dropping the ball, Terry did drop the ball in a big game against Delaware. Three of USC’s former great players, Scott Hondru, Mark Hondru, and Drew Aramany, were playing for highly-ranked Delaware in that game. Terry, who dropped a punt on the five-yard line, picked up the ball and promptly returned it 95 yards for a game-changing touchdown. He wore his William and Mary #3 jersey proudly that day. One of the oldest rivalries in college football is Harvard vs. William and Mary. To help celebrate the school’s 300th year as an academic institution, Terry scored the first two touchdowns of the game for William and Mary in a big win over Harvard that year. After the fourth game of his freshman year, Terry became a starting wide receiver along with Mike Tomlin and Corey Ludwig, who attended Montour High School. They referred to themselves as the Bomb Squad. Their motto was “We might not be the best receiving corps in the nation… but we think we are.” Similar to his time in high school, Terry became captain his senior year (1995) and led his teammates to more career victories than any other class in the long history of the College of William and Mary. For the record, Terry caught 140 passes, totaling 2134 yards, and finished his career as the third all time leader in both career catches and career receiving yards. Additionally, he was an Academic All-Conference performer for three years and an Academic All-American in 1995. He graduated in the spring of 1996 as a Mortar Board National Honor Society member with a

Terry Hammons and Coach Jim Render at USC on Terry’s college signing day

bachelor of arts degree in English. After dabbling as an insurance salesman post graduation, Terry sent his application to Georgetown University Law School. After an extended period of time and his cancelled check of $40, he realized that he was admitted. He received a partial academic scholarship and, like many young students, work-study programs and loans got him to his end goal over a three-year period. He graduated cum laude in 1999 with a Juris Doctor Degree and as a legal research and writing law fellow. His first job was with Hunton & Williams in Virginia as a member of the law firm’s corporate technology practice team. After two years, he joined Arnold & Porter in Washington D.C. as a member of that firm’s corporate and securities practice group. In those five years, he gained experience in the venture capital and private equity investment field, as well as in mergers and acquisitions. In February 2004, he made a career jump by joining Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He started as chief legal counsel for North America Tonnage Gases and as the company’s lead counsel for worldwide mergers and acquisitions. After four years, the company moved him to London, England, as its senior legal counsel for Europe. After three years in London, he came back to Allentown and was soon promoted to assistant general counsel, responsible for the company’s worldwide corporate legal activities. In addition, Terry was responsible for all commercial legal activities in Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa for the company’s industrial gases and materials technologies businesses. He concluded 12 years of service with the Allentown company in the summer of 2015. That fall, he moved his family to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he assumed the position of vice president and deputy counsel for the Albemarle Corporation, a leading specialty chemical company providing innovative chemistry solutions to customers in more than 100 countries around the world. The day of our last interview conversation, Terry was waiting in the Charlotte airport for a plane bound for Austria. His goal is to become general counsel for a Fortune 500 company. My bet is that it will happen. Terry has shown he knows how to overcome and succeed. Terry’s family includes his lovely wife, Tara, and their daughter, Annabelle. Father and daughter share the same birth date. If you took a chance and guessed the date to be the number “3” you would be correct! Annabelle turned seven on February third. n

A photo taken from William and Mary’s Tribe, the school’s official publication Spring 2016

Terry Hammons, today UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Sound Training and Racing for Busy Adult Runners Doug Petrick and Maureen Chermak

If you want to improve as a runner, you should probably run as much and as fast as you can tolerate as often as you can throughout your week... well, not necessarily. Lots of repetition every single day may make more sense if you’re learning to speak a new language, perfecting a musical composition, or fine-tuning your golf swing. Running long, fast, and often isn’t the magic recipe for success, especially for adult runners. Additionally, developments in training for runners have advanced a lot in the past 20 years. The adage of “no pain, no gain” doesn’t ring true as we mature into adults unless we are looking to get injured. While it is true that running more will make you a better runner, most adults often lead busy, chaotic lives. The number of miles you want to run shouldn’t be the only variable to consider when designing sound training. We all may be dealing with the demands of a stressful job, the joy of raising a family, or the challenge of balancing work with personal time. These factors, among others, must be taken into consideration for sound training of a busy adult runner. The theme of balance even holds weight at the collegiate running level. Daniel Caulfield, head track and field and cross country coach at California University, uses a similar approach when working with his collegiate distance runners. When asked about the type of training they use, Coach Caulfield says, “Our athletes do as much training as they can while staying happy and healthy.” How do we handle training when life gets in the way? How do we incorporate intelligent training to stay happy and healthy? As we mature and age, our bodies handle physical and emotional stresses differently than when we were teens or even in our 20s. Understanding the drastic evolution of running science and training can provide adult runners with new and more efficient ways to achieve success. The first step to achieving success is to come to terms with the amount of time you have to devote to your training. Truth about your own situation as a busy adult will allow you to implement sound training that fits the pace of your life. As busy adults, we know that free time can be at a premium; so having a sound approach to training is the first step to keeping you healthy and injury-free. Ask any runner—regardless of ability level—what is the secret to getting faster? If he or she is honest with you, there’s only one true response. The one constant for training success is very simple: consistency. Staying healthy and injury-free allows you to train with more frequency over longer periods of time, which will guide you to your ultimate goal of improvement as a runner. Being sidelined with an injury is every runner’s worst nightmare. A sound approach to training will make sure that nightmare is not a reality. So how do you define success as a runner? Some measure success by hours, minutes, or even seconds taken to finish a race. Some measure success based on how they finish in their age group in a race. Some by achieving a goal, such as losing ten pounds or getting to an ideal weight. Even though we all have different definitions of success as a runner, there are four guiding principles that will help on the road to these goals. Very simply, sound training can be classified into four guiding principles: 18

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Spring 2016

incorporate flexibility and mobility, run by feel, run at a variety of paces, and develop general strength. Incorporate Flexibility and Mobility There are many reasons to incorporate flexibility and mobility into your running. As you continue to develop as a runner, you become more efficient at running in the frontal plane. This is great for running forward, but it A runner will become more efficient and comes at a cost. As you athletic by incorporating flexibility and become more efficient at mobility into a training plan. moving in one direction from increased running, you become more inefficient at moving in other planes of motion. The hazard is that you lose athleticism gained from doing other activities or sports that move in all planes of motion and will become more susceptible to overuse running injuries. Think about how you moved on the playground as a kid—climbing, swinging, hopping. These are the type of movements that need to be reintroduced to your body. Greg Wagner, who holds certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, states, “The ability to move your body efficiently through a full range of motion, in all three planes of motion, allows for full expression of your athletic potential.” Greg works with numerous Upper St. Clair High School athletes during all three sports seasons as an assistant coach for girls’ soccer, girls’ basketball, and spring track and field. There is a vast spectrum of ability levels and movements for those three sports, but Coach Wagner knows the value of incorporating flexibility and mobility into training for all athletes. “This is true, regardless of your sport or activity. Flexibility and mobility is the foundation for acquiring appropriate strength development,” he said. The most basic way to do this is by integrating a dynamic warm-up routine before you run. The details of this routine can vary. At the high school level, we subscribe to Jay Johnson’s Lunge Matrix and Leg Swing Matrix Routine as a warm up. A proper warm up should wake up areas of the body that remain dormant throughout the day from sitting at work, using poor posture, driving, or shuffling through the day’s routines. This warm up is easy to learn, efficient, and prepares your body for the day’s running. Once learned, this warm up takes approximately five minutes to complete. Each lunge movement can be done in place and all you need is a tree, fence, or car to lean against to complete the leg swing movements. A dynamic cool-down routine should also become a part of your training. Your cool down should include movements that increase hip mobility. Decreased hip mobility has been shown to be a root cause of many a runner’s aches, pains, and injuries. We invest in a cool-down routine named the Myrtle. Once learned, a runner can easily complete all the movements within eight minutes. This routine is best done right after running and prior to untying and taking off your shoes. Cont. on page 20

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Cont. from page 18

Sound Training

mental strength as your long run slowly builds over the course Run by Feel Running by feel is a way to frame your training so that you get of weeks and you gain confidence. Commit to a weekly long run, a “win” from the day’s run, given all the factors that make you a and slowly build to soundly increase the quantity of that weekly busy adult. When you run by feel, you can be realistic about the workout. Initially, don’t worry about pace and just think about stresses, joys, and demands involved in a busy life, and make the the length of the run in minutes. Since most races that adults sign best of the time you are able to devote to training. If you’re coming up for work the aerobic system, it only makes sense to invest in off an illness, busy week at work, or stressful time at home, it is in training mostly the aerobic system. Think of the weekly long run your best interest to use that feedback to your advantage. Plowing as your biggest aerobic investment. Incorporating shorter running at faster than race pace will althrough a workout when you’re worn down is a sure fire way to low you to develop the speed you can use during your race. The get sick or injured. Modifying your running plan based on factors distance runners in our high school program follow a version you are not able to control is an intelligent way to train, regardof Jay Johnson’ s speed development progression over the course less of your ability level as an athlete. Coach Caulfield, whose of the season. One of the best ways to inject speed development women’s cross country team competed in the NCAA Division II into your training is by doing 20-second surges into one of your national championship this past fall says, “Every athlete knows easy runs during the week. These surges serve as a way to get that hard work is necessary to be better, but hard work for some the physical and mental connection going for turnover needed highly motivated people might involve not going for a run on a in more intense training, and eventually racing. day when they’re tired, sick, or injured. Just because you can, Surges are an exciting way to break up the monotony of doesn’t mean you should.” In order to improve your fitness level, you do have to become an easy run and prime the legs for the next day’s more intense accustomed to running while uncomfortable. We’re not asking workout. Think of these surges as a form of speed development that you abandon that mindset, but we are asking that you be for your running. Jay Johnson, professional running coach and realistic about the day’s workout if you’re mentally and physically director of Boulder Running Camps, explains another reason for taxed. Be flexible enough to change the day’s workout to an easy surges to be incorporated into easy running. “Speed development run if that’s what your body is asking from you. Let your body improves the coordination between the muscle fibers involved dictate the pace on days that you’re pushing the limits in other in running and the central nervous system. Speed development areas of your life. As Coach Caulfield says, “In training, you should helps activate muscle fibers that aren’t recruited in mass during slower paced running. If you can become more efficient as a never ignore your feelings.” Perhaps, look at the day’s run in terms of minutes, instead of runner, and recruit a greater percentage of your available muscle miles. If you’re physically wiped out, running for time can create fibers to run, you will be able to race faster.” The 20-second surge a more positive mindset than running for mileage. Maybe a basic duration followed by an easy 60 seconds of running segment will fartlek (speedplay) run makes more sense. It may be mentally not physically over tax the body for the next hard workout. Since easier to chunk a continuous run into timed segments of going you incorporate this type of speed development into a continuous “easy pace,” “steady pace,” and “on pace.” For the high school run, the aerobic system is once again being stimulated. As you program, this type of workout is one of the cornerstones to train- move through weeks of training, your surges will get faster as you ing a distance runner. It’s excellent for increasing the level of develop speed. Therefore, don’t feel pressed to run all out during fitness and permits the athlete to listen to his or her own internal the surges as you begin to incorporate them into your training. cues. The best runners can dial into a specific pace based on their It makes more sense to focus on proper running form—relaxed own internal metrodome. Heart rate monitors, GPS watches, and shoulders, proper arm swing, and running tall—over sprinting. Nike ID+ for example, are great tools for exercise. These types As your body develops speed, you’ll become more efficient at moving at a faster pace. Thinking proper form over of technology are unmatched in giving you the full speed running will allow you to develop higher data to track and analyze your running postgears naturally. workout. It takes discipline and practice to run Keeping a variety of paces as a part of your trainby feel and not be tethered by the watch, GPS, ing will make it an easier transition as you begin to or other electronic device. Use technology to sharpen up for your race. Jay Johnson highlights keep you honest and monitor your progress, the value of training at varied paces. Coach Jay not to dictate your pace. says, “When getting ready to race, you have to do Run at a Variety of Paces running specific to race pace for the 5k, 10k, halfRegardless of your specific race distance, it marathon, and marathon to be successful. During is imperative for you to run at a variety of paces training blocks, it’ s important to touch at a variety over the course of your training. In this article, of running paces to be successful. Most runners we will examine extremes—slower than “race make the mistake of trying to do all their running pace” and faster than “race pace.” at race pace.” Performing longer runs at slower than race Working the extremes will make it easier for pace will do wonders for your endurance. You’ll you to dial into race pace as you run, sharpening gain additional benefits in terms of strengthworkouts leading up to your race. Working the ening the connecting tissue and muscle that Keeping a variety of paces in a training extremes is a way to work on endurance, efficiency, power you through your run. You’ll achieve program ensures an easy transition as you begin to sharpen up for key races.

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Cont. on page 22

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Cont. from page 20

Sound Training strength, and speed throughout the training cycle before engaging in actual race pace workouts. Runners who only focus on race pace workouts throughout all the weeks of training are doing themselves a disservice. Although there’s nothing quite like cranking out 400s on the track, it’s not the best way to work and develop the aerobic system over the course of a training cycle. In order for high school athletes to become successful distance runners, they must be able to run efficiently at a variety of paces. This fundamental concept is just as critical for adult runners to achieve success. Most races are run with a variety of paces over a variety of distances; the best way to prepare for these paces and distances is to incorporate them into a sound training plan. Develop General Strength A sound general strength program must be one that is easily incorporated into your time schedule. At its initial stages, your general strength exercises should be part of a program that can be easily completed without the use of heaving weights or machines. Development is the key word, as your general strength program should be one that progresses as your strength builds. Committing to a weekly long run and Exercises that engage incorporating general strength into training muscle groups most will build fitness and confidence in a runner. commonly used by runners are the logical ones to select. The distance runners in our high school program use Jay Johnson’s Eight Week General Strength progression over the course of the fall, winter, and spring sports seasons. The bulk of these general strength exercises are based on body resistance and can be completed easily within a ten-minute Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

or less time frame, once learned. The general strength progression, as prescribed, allows the athlete to progress along a logical and sound path. Many of the exercises as a part of this progression serve as injury-proofing the athlete from many overuse injuries. For timing, general strength is best incorporated immediately after a run and right before completing a proper cool down. View the timeframe of getting in your general strength as the window when your heart rate is still elevated from your running. Additionally, completing Jay Johnson’s Myrtle routine cool down after finishing your general strength work presents additional opportunities for strength gains. Regardless of your definition of success, incorporating these four sound training principles into your training schedule will allow you to reach your goals as a busy adult runner. It goes without saying that sound training principles will necessitate an additional time commitment on your part. But if you can frame the additional time as an investment in staying healthy and injury-free, you will find that adhering to these principles over time will enhance the quality and the quantity of your running. New personal bests will occur, stringing together more consistent weeks and months of training. A new approach of allowing your body to dictate the day’s pace will give you true ownership over your training. As runners, we know more than physical benefits are derived from training. At the high school level, we have embraced these principles over the past five years with our distance runners during the fall cross country season, winter indoor track and field season, and the spring outdoor track and field season. We have found these principles to be critical for success in developing the individual athlete and the entire distance running program as a whole. Having a long-term view and focusing on development of the process has allowed for success, regardless of initial ability level for an individual runner. Success can be measured in different ways. For busy adults as well as for busy high school athletes, the sound training principles that guide running are the same. The end goal is success through consistency as a runner and the means to get there remains staying healthy and injury-free. Below is a snapshot of a sample week of sound training:

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Warm Up: Warm Up: Warm Up: Warm Up: Warm Up: Warm Up: Warm Up: 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ 8 min: leg swings/ lunges lunges lunges lunges lunges lunges lunges 30+ min: off longest run of the week–start at 30 min, slowly build each week

Cool Down: 8 min=strength pedestals/leg swings/ Myrtle

30-50 min: run at steady pace w/5 X 20 sec pick up, 60 sec recovery 8 min: pedestal strength Myrtle/leg swings

30-35 min: track cross train–30-50 off workout min e.g.: 9 X 500 meters Bike/swim/walk at race pace 200 meters, recovery in between

40-60 min tempo run: 1 0 e a s y, 4 o n , 6 steady, 4 on, 6 steady, 10 easy, cont. 4 on 6 off for length of run, with recovery after last steady

Cool Down: 8 min=strength pedestals/leg swings/ Myrtle

To learn more about sound training for busy adults, listen to Coach Jay Johnson’s Run Faster podcast episode 12 with Doug Petrick. Download the podcast for free on iTunes or go to http://www.coachjayjohnson.com/2015/11/podcast-012-doug-petrick/ and stream it over the web. 22

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About the Authors: Doug Petrick, Upper St. Clair resident and USCHS physics teacher, is the boys’ cross country coach and head track and field coach. He enjoys balancing running into his busy schedule. Sound training principles helped him overcome an ankle stress fracture and, more recently, break 20 minutes for the 5000-meter race distance. Maureen Chermak, a South Hills resident and learning support teacher at USCHS, is the girls’ cross country coach. Running and training is one of her passions. Using sound training principles, she recently broke 20 minutes for the 5000-meter race distance. Photographs courtesy of Jim Thomas, volunteer assistant coach for the USCHS cross country and track and field programs. About the Contributors: Daniel Caulfield is the head track and field coach and head cross country coach at California University of Pennsylvania. In addition to having his women’s team compete at the Division II cross country championship this past fall, during his coaching tenure he has coached numerous All-American distance runners in events from 800 to 10,000 meters. Greg Wagner is the horizontal jumps coach, assistant girls’ soccer coach, and assistant girls’ basketball coach at Upper St. Clair High School. This past fall, his girls’ soccer team won the PIAA championship, a first in USCHS history. Jay Johnson is a professional running coach in Denver, Colorado, director of Boulder Running Camps, and contributor to Running Times magazine. Coach Jay has a master of science in kinesiology and an applied physiology degree from the University Colorado. He competed and coached at the Division I level in Boulder, Colorado. Jay coaches runners of all ability levels, and three of the professional athletes he has coached have won U.S. Track and Field national championships. n

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Un Mal Dia para Senorita Roberts Jay Lynch

Jay Lynch, in his high school days

Marty Montgomery shows off the hair style of the era.

Back in 1970, the dress code at USC High School prohibited comfortable clothing, like blue jeans, and most teachers and students frowned upon clothes and hair styles that would identify a student as a budding hippie or Vietnam War protester. Conformity was expected and generally accepted. Guys wore corduroy bell bottom pants, bleeding madras shirts, and penny loafers. Trendsetters, like Bobby Bishop (see his high school photo), defied authority with his long hair and earth shoes, but most of us postponed our non-conformist fashion statements until college, when we would go entire semesters without changing (or washing) our bell bottom jeans and work shirts. Those of us who were USC athletes had additional expectations placed on us: no long hair (football players were expected to have crew cuts) and neck ties on game days. We also had strict instructions from coaches that we were to specifically be on our very best behavior on game days. We were expected to represent the highest values of the school and community. The standard female outfit wasn’t groovy, mod, or far-out. It consisted of a wool Bobby Bishop plaid skirt, white blouse, and cashmere sweater. This clothing style went nicely with long, straight hair, parted down the middle, which was worn by nearly all the girls and most of the young teachers, as well. One morning at the high school, we reacted in the normal way to the buzzer that signaled the end of homeroom, by rushing into the hallways, jostling for position, and making our way to our first classes before the next buzzer would nab us for being late, which would result in a demerit. As I headed down a hallway, I could see my girlfriend, Marty Montgomery, well ahead of me. Marty was a beautiful young student who fully conformed to the customary dress and hair style.

I Can’t Remember Boasting About Handyman Skills Before We Got Married Jim O’Brien

When I was wooing Kathleen Churchman, I can’t remember boasting about my ability to fix things. I don’t remember saying that I liked to do yard work. Yet, after all these years, Kathie keeps after me to tackle this task and that task around the house and in the yard. I don’t know why she hasn’t given up by now. A divorced woman who learned this winter that Kathie and I were celebrating our 48th wedding anniversary asked me the question, “What’s the secret to a good marriage?” I smiled and said, “Patience.” I said it so the woman would think I meant patience on my part, but I was just kidding. Of course, it was completely the other way around. Kathie should have run out of patience with me by now, but she has been patient… and persistent, I might add. “You’re getting old,” our younger daughter, Rebecca, reminded me on the telephone when she called from California last August to wish me a happy birthday. It was my 73rd birthday. Hopefully, I’m getting better with age. Kathie and I have been doing some clean-up in our yard recently, and it’s never looked better. I cleaned out an area in our basement that’s she been after me to do for months, maybe years, and I helped her put away some stuff in the attic. We managed to do this without sneezing or wheezing, hurting our backs, or damaging anything or anyone. We stood back proudly, more than once, and admired the results of our efforts. We were both sweating because it was quite warm, even though we performed these tasks early in the day. Spending time in the yard and in the attic brought back memories. I smile about those memories now, even though the incidents I recalled caused me a great deal of grief and angst at the time. We were living in our first home in Long Island, New York, in the community of Baldwin. It was spring and it was time for the annual spring clean-up in our yard. The previous two years, I paid $100 to 24

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have someone do the dirty deeds. “We could save some money,” Kathie said one fine day, “if you did that clean-up yourself.” So I got out a rake, some pruning shears, and some hedge clippers I had once purchased in a moment of madness, Jim O’Brien, admiring the foliage and went about the spring clean-up. at the Forbes Field wall That same evening, Kathie drove me to the emergency room at Mercy Hospital in nearby Rockville Centre. That’s where both of our daughters, Sarah and Rebecca, had been born five and nearly two years earlier. I was wheezing and having difficulty breathing. Spending all that time cutting back the bushes and pulling out weeds had done a number on me. I get a touch of asthma now and then, so my breathing pipes are not the best. I received some shots and some pills. By the time we paid for everything, the cost, of course, was more than the $100 we’d saved by me doing the yard’s spring clean-up. You’d think Kathie would have learned by now to keep me out of the hedges. I do nice work; I always have. I came across a photo recently showing the backyard of my childhood home in Hazelwood. “What do you notice about this?” I asked Kathie when I showed her the picture. “The awnings on your home?” Kathie came back. “No, look at the hedges, look at the grass, look at the walkway,” I said. The hedges and grass were all cut neatly and the walkway was clear. It was my job to keep it that way when I was a kid. My mother praised my efforts and said I did a better job than did my older brother, Dan. She wanted me to do that job from now on. Dan didn’t mind. He just stood back and smiled, like he knew something I didn’t know. My mother even had me do the next-door neighbor’s yard because they didn’t do it themselves. She didn’t want their weeds to become our weeds.

I figured that I could catch up to her if I committed a minor infraction by running in the hall and a more serious infraction of basketball Coach Perinis’ game-day rule of good behavior, by not-so-gently bumping fellow students out of my way. As I got closer to Marty, my young male hormones overtook my sense of dignity. I snuck up behind her and gave her a nice, sweet kiss on the side of her cute little neck. But, it wasn’t Marty. It was Senorita Roberts, my Spanish teacher. She dropped her books to the floor and let out a blood curdling screech that stopped traffic in the hallway. “Juan Carlos (the Spanish name she had given me)! What did you just do?” I was just as startled as Senorita Roberts. I had expected a surprised reaction from Marty, but nothing like this. I tried to explain, “I thought you were Marty!” My explanation really made her mad. “So, you think it’s OK to kiss Marty on the neck in the hallway?” The crowd was silent, except for a few guys snickering and girls giggling. I apologized profusely, picked up her books and lesson plan, and handed Coach Perinis huddles with his players during a game’s time out them to her sheepishly. Then the buzzer rang, which meant the scene I created made all the spectators late, and demerits would be flying. What made matters worse was that, by coincidence, Coach Perinis had been walking behind me in the hallway. He witnessed one of his players, wearing a game-day neck tie, violate nearly every one of his rules of conduct and gentlemanly behavior: running in the halls, pushing fellow students, kissing a girl on the neck, kissing a teacher on the neck, and making 30 students late for class. I rode the bench during the basketball game that Friday evening and was forced to run laps around the gym for the entire Saturday practice, carrying a medicine ball over my head. Senorita Roberts moved me to the back of the class, presumably to keep a safe distance away from me, and my Spanish tests were graded con gran escrutinio. My message to today’s young female USC teachers: protect yourselves. Juan Carlos (John Charles) Lynch (aka, Don’t dress like your students or mimic their hair styles, and don’t asJay), a USC resident, welcomes your Senorita Roberts sume that nicely dressed athletes always have honorable intentions. n comments at bkefather@yahoo.com.

In recent years, I felt badly when I’d go back to my old neighborhood and check out my house and see how the grass had grown too tall, weeds were everywhere, and the hedges hadn’t been trimmed. When we lived on Long Island, Kathie came up with another idea of how we could save some money. We had central air-conditioning installed in our home after we had been there one particularly oppressive summer. We had someone come to our home a year later and go up in the attic and take out the AC filter, bring it down to the driveway to clean it, and then reinstall it. The guy charged me $25 to do that task. Kathie suggested we could save that $25 the following year if I would do it myself. So one day, when she was not home, I positioned the ladder in the center of our garage to the opening in the ceiling, climbed the ladder, and went up into the attic. I walked across one of the wooden beams, just like a high-wire performer at the circus. I tried to pry the AC filter loose, but something kept sparking. No one should like sparks of any kind coming from an electrical component. I backed away carefully so as not to loose my balance. I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew I never wanted to see those sparks again. I didn’t realize, but later learned, that I was supposed to turn off the switch to AC before removing the filter. So I climbed down from the attic and drove to the nearby service station where I would take my car to be repaired, and asked Mike Duffy, the auto mechanic, if he could help me. I told him I’d pay him $25 if he’d come over to my house and help me with a project in my attic. Mike said he’d help and followed me home in his car. He climbed the ladder to the attic and I followed behind him. Mike spotted the pink fiberglass insulation padding laid all around the attic, and he turned a similar shade of pink. He was allergic to the stuff. Weren’t we all, as we later learned? Mike quickly retreated from the attic, apologized that he wouldn’t be able to handle the task, and told me what I needed to do to free the filter so that I could clean it. First, I had to turn off the electrical switch. That, I now realized, made a big difference!

I brought the filter down, hosed it off in the driveway, and let it dry before I went back up into the attic to put it back where it belonged. In the attic once again, I lost my balance as I moved gingerly along the wooden beam. One of my feet landed to the side of the beam, and it felt like my foot, and then my leg, was in quicksand. I knew this would not be good. I managed to get myself back to the garage ceiling opening and climb down the ladder to the ground. I looked up, but did not see any extra holes in the garage ceiling. I entered the front door of our split-level home to find Sarah, who was about six at the time, standing at the top of the steps in the foyer area. She was looking up at a huge hole in the ceiling, right next to a chandelier. Plaster was dangling down. My foot had gone through the ceiling in the foyer. “Mom’s not going to like this,” said Sarah. At her young age, she already knew her mom’s moods in regard to my failures. And, yes, Kathie wasn’t too pleased with my efforts when she came home. I told her it was her fault for asking me to do this task in the first place. “You know I’m not good around electricity,” I reminded her. It cost about $125 to have that hole in our ceiling patched and painted. Even though the job was completed by a capable workman, there was a visible difference in the ceiling color around the area where the damage had been done and repaired. When selling our Long Island home to move to Pittsburgh years later, I reminded the realtor not to point out the chandelier in the foyer when she was showing off the home’s assets to prospective buyers. I have gotten smarter over the years. I let Kathie go up into our Pittsburgh attic; it’s her domain. I help by pulling down the ladder, turning on the light, and handing her whatever she wants to put up there. I praise her for being better at walking the plank than I ever was in the early days of our marriage. We both smile at the memories. In addition to being patient and persistent for the good of your marriage, it’s also important, most important, to always keep your sense of humor. n Jim O’Brien has authored the book Golden Arms—Six Hall of Fame Quarterbacks from Western Pennsylvania. Check it out at www.jimobriensportsauthor.com. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE District Court 05-2-20 Office: 412-835-1661; Fax: 412-835-4060 5100 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park, PA 15102

Judge Arnoni Discusses Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a big problem, and that problem is compounded when driving in or near a school zone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as “any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving.” There are three kinds of distracted driving: 1. Visual Distraction. Doing something that requires the driver to look away from the roadway. 2. Manual Distraction. Doing something that requires the driver to take his hands off the steering wheel. 3. Mental Distraction. Thinking hard about something other than driving. National Safety Council statistics show cell phones are the number one distraction leading to accidents. A driver has a 23 times greater chance of being in an accident when texting while driving. However,

other distractions can be deadly, too. Having a pet in your lap or in the front seat area can be a distraction. Several states have pending laws that will make this illegal. Loud music can be a distraction when it prevents the driver from hearing important sounds, including honking horns, the blare of emergency vehicles, or screeching tires. While road trips can be fun, scenery can be a distraction when the driver pays more attention to his or her surroundings than to driving. So, put the cell phone camera down, and keep your hands on the wheel. Other distractions include conversations that require you to take your eyes off the road, reading a map or newspaper, applying makeup, eating, adjusting climate or radio controls, and daydreaming. Drivers should know that the ability to manage distractions is greatly affected by fatigue and stress.

The message “our children depend on your driving” has been presented countless times in various mediums over the years, but drivers seemingly are not paying attention! In 2012, 292 child pedestrians under the age of 15 were killed in motor vehicle crashes and over 14,000 were injured. More than one fifth, or 22%, of all children between the ages of five and 15 killed nationwide in traffic accidents were pedestrians. Reduced speed limits, usually 15 mph, are enforced in “active” school zones. Although drivers may find this inconvenient, slowing down is necessary when parents are dropping off or picking up their children, there is increased school bus traffic, and children are walking or riding bicycles to and from school. The following are some facts and tips about driving in school zones: Facts: • Because of their smaller stature, it is difficult for children to see motorists and motorists to see them. • Peripheral vision of children is about one third narrower than an adult’s. Therefore, children can’t see a motorist approaching from the right or left as quickly as can an adult.

Managing and Blending Your Strengths with Others Jim Meston

During the years of our personal development, we use a variety of behaviors to get what we want and to be effective. The skills we use become our life orientations. Two psychologists, Dr. Stuart Atkins and Dr. Allan Katcher, developed a questionnaire which identifies the components of four possible life orientations. Completing the questionnaire and answering honestly allows for an inventory of the skills we use in our daily activities. Most people use some of the behaviors from each of the four orientations, depending on the circumstances. But many people display a preference for one of the orientations more often than the others; that becomes their primary orientation, with parts of the others as backups.

The Importance of Understanding the Styles of Others When someone else’s style of behavior isn’t the same as yours, conflict can develop unless you have learned to integrate their strengths with yours or you adjust to 26

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accept their preference. An important fact relevant to knowing your strengths is the dynamic that a strength used to excess becomes a weakness. Let’s look at some of the strengths of the four life orientations (with the excessive use shown in parentheses). • Supporting orientation—thoughtful (self denying), idealistic (impractical), trusting (gullible), helpful (paternal), seeks excellence (perfectionist), cooperative (easily influenced). • Controlling orientation—controlling (domineering), quick to act (impulsive), self confident (arrogant), forceful (coercive), persistent (high pressure), sense of urgency (impatience). • Conservative orientation—tenacious (cannot let go), economical (stingy), factual (data bound), thorough (elaborate), methodical (plodding), detail oriented (nit picking). • Adapting orientation—flexible (inconsistent), tactful (avoids confrontation), adaptable (without conviction), socially skillful (manipulative), negotiating (over Spring 2016

compromising), animated (melodramatic). The Consequences of Not Utilizing Differences Unfortunately, many management Jim Meston teams and married couples, as well, do not understand or recognize the dynamics of working together or living together with different primary sets of skills and needs. When we can value the differences in ways to effectively problem solve, many benefits can be realized. But, what often happens, instead of listening to various points of view developed through unique sets of skills, is arguing and pressure to resolve the issue based on what the more domineering one wants. Business management sometimes operates far below its potential when it fails to understand and practice the dynamics of blending strengths of the organization’s management and personnel to problem

• Children have difficulty judging a car’s speed and distance. • Children are unpredictable. • Teen drivers are distracted more easily. Drivers under the age of 20 make up 6.4% of drivers on the road, but account for 11.4% of traffic fatalities. • Every distracted second counts. As an example, when looking down at your cell phone for four seconds, your vehicle can travel the length of a football field. • Cell phone records can be used in court to prove that a driver was distracted when an accident occurred. Tips: • Do not text while driving! Use an app to curb your bad habits. There are smartphone apps that automatically shut off text messaging while driving. The app can also temporarily stop incoming calls. • Do not let pets sit on your lap or in the front seat area of your car. • Children should be in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats in the back section of the vehicle. • When driving in school zones, near parks or playgrounds, or in residential neighborhoods, drivers should solve. A leader who primarily operates using a controlling orientation may well want to bulldoze his genius idea into action without first letting staff members who have well developed analytical skills conduct a thorough evaluation. In many marriages, one partner may tend to be quick to act and likes to do things spontaneously, while the other partner may prefer time to plan and evaluate options. If the marriage is to avoid stress in these circumstances, the couple will benefit from modifying how each reacts when one pushes to do something the other is more hesitant doing. Marriages are more apt to survive when each of the partners modifies his or her primary sense of action to include the strengths of the other. What is at risk is bickering, arguing, and hard feelings, with the extreme being an end to the marriage. You Don’t Need the Questionnaire to Determine Your Style The questionnaire is not a test; there are no right or wrong answers. The questionnaire is developed to help establish preferences using a non-threatening

anticipate a child might unexpectedly dart out into the roadway. • When turning left at a green light or making a right turn on red, drivers should look not only for cars but also for pedestrians. Pedestrians always have the right of way in this situation. • Drivers should be considerate of crossing guards. It is the responsibility of the crossing guard to keep children safe. Too often, crossing guards encounter drivers who are more concerned with their own personal agendas than the safety of school children. • Parents picking up or dropping off their children at school should never stop or park in a crosswalk. • Never pass a school bus that is loading or unloading children. • Parents should talk to their teen drivers about driving responsibly and the consequences of distracted driving. • It goes without saying, no one should ever get behind a wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. • Finally, no text message is worth risking the well-being of an innocent child. Resolve to avoid all distractions and stay focused on the road. The life saved may be your child’s! n approach and identify one’s preferential style of behavior and problem solving. Even without specifically answering the questionnaire, one can recognize his or her primary preferences of behavior by identifying with certain traits found in the four orientations. Since being introduced to the questionnaire, I have seen it be a very powerful tool for helping teams identify their stressors. It can be useful when groups are establishing policies and procedures. Learning to blend the strengths of group members can significantly benefit the effectiveness of the group overall. When couples use the questionnaire or evaluate the different strengths of each person’s orientation, they can usually identify and reduce some of the causes for stressors in their relationship. The ability and willingness of a person to recognize his or her orientations and the associated stressors that they produce and use that information to motivate change or modify the overuse of a strength is important. The benefits and the outcome are worth the effort both in the workplace and at home. n To read Jim’s blogs on various subjects, visit http://curbstonepulpit.wordpress.com. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

Buffy Z. Hasco President 412-833-5712 2017*

Patrick A. Hewitt 412-831-0178 2019*

Angela B. Petersen Vice President 412-831-7182 2019*

Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2017*

Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2019*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2019*

Phillip J. Elias 412-257-1198 2019*

The 2016 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July. Harry F. Kunselman Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-1115 2017*

412-851-0622 2017*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

School District Detailed Monthly Calendar—Visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Excellence in Education, Continuous Progress, and the 1:1 Learning Initiative Brad Wilson, Supervisor of Customized and On-Line Learning Customizing Learning, Nurturing Potential… Delivering Excellence. This is the tagline of the Upper St. Clair School District and it is grounded in the assurance to all stakeholders that the District will strive to provide the best educational experiences possible for every student, every day. Actualizing the vision of this tagline in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world takes a continued commitment from the instructional change agents in the District and requires significant efforts to meet each child at his or her level of learning. Though this philosophy and mission has been longstanding, it has experienced a significant and strategic advantage in recent years with the addition of mobile technology and related applications. The concept of continuous progress and customizing learning has been an enduring and established value in the District. The philosophy and practices were initiated nearly five decades ago, when on May 23, 1967, the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors, in a visionary manner, adopted a policy as follows: “To develop a curriculum which is designed to meet the educational needs of each child, regardless of ability. In implementing this curriculum, all instructional processes will be designed according to the concept of continuous progress, i.e., each student shall be taught according to the individual’s rate and level of achievement.” The idea of meeting individual student needs is valued so 28

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significantly as to become policy. Teachers and administrators have worked diligently to put this policy into practice since its inception, using the best resources available in the past 50 years. As technology has evolved, so has the ability to improve the reality of this visionary policy. Most recently, the capabilities of mobile technology and related advances in educational practices have exponentially impacted the ability of the District’s teachers to actualize this policy, vision, and mission. The recent 1:1 Learning Initiative has now launched the District into a new and exciting phase of customizing learning. In the current phase of the initiative, every middle school student has been provided with an iPad to be used, both at school and at home, as a part of regular instructional programming with the next phase of this initiative to take place at the high school level. There could be the tendency to view and label this initiative as one merely related to tools and technology; however, the targeted gains focus solely on improving student learning. The purpose and enhancements to learning that are the aims of this initiative are rooted in the instructional practices that have been proven to promote student learning. The technological tools enable these identified instructional practices to occur seamlessly and practically and in ways that were not possible before these technological developments existed. After more than five years

of internal research and piloting, the following six areas were identified as the focus for the 1:1 Learning Initiative: • Easy access to quality and curated content • Improved communication and collaboration • Effective and timely feedback and assessment • Opportunity for self-paced and self-directed learning • Greater opportunity to demonstrate and practice creativity • Enhanced student engagement Each of these focus areas is unique yet interconnected through a focus on student-centered, active learning strategies. The following descriptions provide a brief look at each of these areas. Easy Access to Quality and Curated Content Each teacher in the Upper St. Clair School District has the ability to curate and post customized learning materials to individual courses or team sites in the course management system known as Blended Schools. Students can access learning materials ranging from the basics, including worksheets, textbook materials, and homework assignments, to more sophisticated materials such as teacher created video presentations, lectures, and demonstrations, in addition to curated content from experts in any field from across the world. Students have instant and constant access to materials from any device. The 1:1 iPads provided to middle school students ensure and allow for the expectation that every student uses this opportunity and these resources. Improved Communication and Collaboration Communication and collaboration opportunities provided through mobile technology are extensive and include email, FaceTime, collaborative documents, texting, and more. These technological connections are not meant to replace critical faceto-face interactions with teachers and peers, but serve as a means to connect learners with their peers and teachers outside of the school walls and schedule. This allows for more frequent and individualized contact and enables face-to-face interactions to focus on more meaningful and complex information. Individual and group presentations are more feasible as software and devices provide ways to collaborate on projects outside of school. Students are able to work on group projects ranging from long-term science fair research and group presentations to daily homework assignments. In school, students are able to interact face-to-face, while completing and storing work digitally, so that all collaborators have equal access and ability to participate in the work’s completion. Feedback and Assessment Traditionally, student learning was assessed at the end of the instruction on testing day. In the 1:1 Learning Initiative, teachers are more readily able

to diagnose learning gaps on a daily basis through technology enhanced assessment techniques. While automated feedback is possible with many technological assessment tools, more personalized feedback strategies, such as voice-authored feedback, is also a reality. Voice-authored feedback tools enable teachers to explain their comments, corrections, and advice to students, through their own voice recordings, directly on student work, as the teachers mark and highlight the sections of work they are assessing. The end result is more meaningful and personalized feedback that is useful to the learner in understanding what they did well and the areas in which they can improve. Self-Paced and Self-Directed Learning Technological assessment tools open the door for other unique instructional approaches that can allow for self-paced and self-directed learning. This may include students being able to self-pace and progress in their learning as they master content for an individual lesson, unit, or even an entire class. In other cases, students are able to self-direct to particular topics or strategies that are more appropriate for their learning style or individual interests. Choice is a critical part of daily living and in motivating learning. Student choice is becoming a key component of the initiative. Creativity Technology in and of itself does not ensure creativity in students. The ability to demonstrate learning in a variety of ways through the use of technology encourages and allows for creative thinking and problem solving. When technology is utilized, increased opportunities for authentic problem solving and greater choice in the manner in demonstrating learning are available. These opportunities are critical in helping students develop skills that will be essential in all future professions. Engagement When students are appropriately challenged with meaningful learning activities, there is typically a strong level of engagement and ownership of students in the learning process. Technology can play a strong role in promoting this engagement. Strong instructional practices are important in making the learning meaningful for students. Effective and timely assessments that can diagnose gaps in learning can then lead students to access a variety of content at a student’s instructional level. Self-paced and self-directed activities are designed to meet each child at his or her specific level of learning and individual interests, while creative opportunities challenge students to use what they have learned and to apply their thinking at a higher level, thus engaging them more deeply in the learning. Educational engagement is an essential component to all learning, and is a key area of focus in the initiative. In Closing While the 1:1 Learning Initiative may not have been anticipated in 1967 when the initial Continuous Progress policy was adopted, the intent of this philosophy has led us to where we are today. Keeping this tradition alive, the District’s school board and administration will continue to work to actualize the spirit of the District’s tagline—Customizing Learning, Nurturing Potential… Delivering Excellence. n To learn more about the 1:1 Learning Initiative, scan the QR code, using your smart phone. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Many Thanks

Thank you to outgoing Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors Louis Oliverio and Rebecca Stern. During Lou’s four years on the board from December 2011 through December 2015, he served as a SHASDA committee representative, legislation committee alternate, USC Township liaison representative, and Youth Steering Committee liaison alternate. Rebecca served from December 2007 through December 2015. During her eight Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools, years on the board, she served as board congratulates Lou Oliverio. president (2012) and vice-president (2011), committee of the whole chairperson, Pathfinder representative, SHASDA representative, Dr. O’Toole reads Rebecca’s board SHASDA alternate, and USC Township liaison representative. accomplishments during a School Lou and Rebecca’s commitment and dedication to the residents and students of Upper St. Board meeting. Clair was outstanding and much appreciated. n

USC’s Ellie Stoehr Retires

As 2015 came to a close, it marked the end of a chapter in the life of a woman who touched the lives of almost every student in the District, Supervisor of Pupil Services Eloise Stoehr. Ellie was born in Ohio, but her family moved to New Kensington when she was six so her father could attend graduate school at Carnegie Tech, now Carnegie Mellon. She attended public school through high school and Ellie Stoehr graduated from Dickinson College in Carlisle, majoring in psychology and sociology/anthropology and minoring in education. Ellie did an independent study to learn about the role of an elementary guidance counselor and was a student-teacher in a pilot project of the Carlisle Area School District known as the Alternative Learning Project, which was an alternative program for students in grades seven and eight who were not successful in a traditional junior high school setting. These experiences, plus others that gave her a flavor for social work, led Ellie to look for work in a social service agency after she graduated in 1976. Her first job was that of a therapeutic activity worker at the Bradley Center, a residential treatment center for dependent/ neglected children between the ages of five and 18, which was located in Dorseyville at the time. Ellie worked there from 1976 to 1985, during which time she was on the team that founded the school’s program, and she became the education director. In her role at Bradley, Ellie collaborated frequently with the administration and staff of the schools in the Fox Chapel School District, in which the Bradley Center was located. At that time, the supervisor of pupil services was a mentor to her and encouraged Ellie to become a certified school psychologist. Ellie worked during the day and attended graduate school in the evening at Duquesne University to earn her master of science degree in education in 1983 and her certificate of advanced graduate study in school psychology in 1985. She began working for the Fox Chapel School District as a school psychologist in 1985 and went back 30

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to graduate school at Indiana University of Pennsylvania to earn her certificate as a supervisor of pupil services. Ellie came to work for the Upper St. Clair School District in 1993 as a school psychologist and became the supervisor of pupil services in 1995. While at Upper St. Clair, Ellie’s responsibilities were quite varied and involved many of the support services that are needed to help children perform in an academic setting. In her role as supervisor of pupil services, she was responsible for overseeing the state mandated and District-wide assessment programs, school nurse services, the school psychologists, programs and services provided by the elementary and middle school counselors, English as a Second Language services, coordinating data for the Pennsylvania Information Management System (PIMS), the Student Assistance Program, homebound instruction, liaison for services to homeless children, and the enrollment of new students to the District. She was directly involved in establishing protocols and programs to enhance school safety through procuring grants and training for the administrators and staff. One of the things that Ellie liked most about her job was the variety of areas for which she was responsible and the new learning that was necessary to keep her up to date and well informed. Many of her responsibilities were tied to mandated services, procedures delineated through regulations or guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and those based on legal decisions as well as civil rights. The need for keeping and analyzing data has grown tremendously in recent years, and it was important to have an understanding of how it fit together to serve our students and community. Ellie said she will miss the stimulation that working in an environment like this provided, but she won’t miss the constant deadlines! In retirement, Ellie is looking forward to the freedom to plan her own schedule. Her daughter, Mariel, will be graduating from college in May and will be embarking on a career as a special education teacher, so Ellie will get to stay involved in education through her eyes. She and her husband, Joe Saldutte, plan to travel, and Ellie said she has “years” worth of books to read and movies to watch to keep busy in the coming days before she decides on their next great adventure. n

Meet…

USC’s New School Board Members

Left to right are Patrick Hewitt and Phillip Elias

Elected this past fall to the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors were Phillip J. Elias and Patrick A. Hewitt. Phillip Elias, who is originally from Beechview, works in the field of property management. He and his wife, Brooke, have lived in the Township for 16 years. The couple has three children: Abigail, a freshman at W&J; Phillip, a sophomore at

USCHS; and Grady, a first grader at Baker. In the past, Phillip has been involved with the USC Athletic Association and youth football. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing and spending time with his family. Phillip said that he is looking forward to working for a school district that has such great kids. An attorney and managing partner at Riley Hewitt Witte & Romano, Patrick Hewitt grew up in central Pennsylvania in the Camp Hill area. After serving as active duty Army JAG in the 1980s, Patrick and

his wife, Jennifer, moved to Upper St. Clair in 1992. The couple has two daughters: Halle, a freshman at USCHS; and Carlie, a seventh grader at Fort Couch. Patrick was a three-time past president at Valleybrook Country Club, where he also served on its board in other capacities. In his limited spare time, he enjoys golf. “It’s nice to be part of a community where education is a priority,” said Patrick. He said he is looking forward to working through challenges that face the school board now and in the future. n

Partners in Education Heather Holtschlag

If you have a need or an interest in special education, you may want to check out Upper St. Clair School District’s Partners in Education, or PIE, program. According to Tracy Barnett, chairperson of the group, the program was developed many years ago likely due to an increased need for such a service. “PIE is a committee of the USC Parent Teacher Council,” Barnett explained. “It provides support to families of students with learning differences, which includes families whose children receive special education services as well as families whose children do not receive any services at school.” Barnett said that the group was chaired by Jan Brody and Carole King for several years, and although it was not active during the 2014-15 school year, the group is hoping to once again get more parents involved. USC resident Laura Muhl found out about PIE at the beginning of the school year from an announcement about the group and its first scheduled meeting of the year on a Facebook page she follows. “I have a son who just started kindergarten and was in the process of being evaluated for speech, occupational therapy, and behavior accommodations, so I was glad to hear that there was a group of parents who could come together,” she said. “I was also glad to hear the group leader mention that there would be opportunities to meet with school administrators, and I was happy to know that there would be parent-only meetings, where we could learn from and vent to each other.” During her first meeting, Muhl said she learned a lot about where parents with older children in the schools have had successes and struggles, so that provided some insight she did not have as a first time parent of a school-aged child. “I also like that what is talked about in the group stays in the group.” The group meets regularly, usually at Panera in the Galleria, and features speakers of all types. Barnett said that one of the most recent speakers was Erika Buchanan, a licensed psychologist

and nationally certified school psychologist, who spoke about executive functioning. In addition, Melissa Garvin, USCSD assistant director of Student Support Services, also attends most meetings to answer questions and speak informally with anyone who has this need. “In a K–12 school district, there are a lot of different ‘constituencies’ as the elementary school parents have different issues than the high school parents,” Barnett explained. “The middle school parents have their own concerns. Finding topics that interest everyone is a challenge. We try to balance our meetings between informal networking and sharing sessions and speakers. The hope is that if enough people come to the meetings, parents of children of different ages can make connections and continue those relationships outside of the meetings. It always helps to have a friend who understands the challenges you have with your child. I also think that the parents of older children can help the parents of younger children by sharing their ‘been there done that’ stories as well as the information from various resources.” Muhl said she plans to become more involved with the group as time goes on. “In particular, I’m looking forward to the guest speaker events and the parent-only events, which is where I feel I have the most to learn as I navigate the school system in order for my son to have the best learning experience possible.” Barnett said that any parent in the District can attend the meetings. “Melissa Garvin has lots of contacts in the community to search for speakers, which helps a lot. Also, we both look to the rest of the parents for input as to topics for future meetings. We are trying to build a community to share resources and network outside of the meetings, as well.” n For more information about PIE, contact Tracy Barnett by email at tgbarnett@verizon.net or phone at 301-525-6015. PIE also has a page within the USC Parent Teacher Council section on the District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Q&A With Daniel O’Rourke Boyce’s New Principal

This January, Boyce Middle School welcomed Daniel O’Rourke as its new principal. Dan took time to answer the following questions for UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, which we are happy to share with our readers. Why did you choose a career in education? I have always been a people person and therefore chose to pursue a career in which I could collaborate with others. Children are very impressionable, and educators have the unique opportunity to positively shape their lives each day. Reflecting on their own childhood, most people can recall a teacher who impacted their life; I wanted to be that impactful person. Where did you earn your degree(s), certification(s)? I earned a degree in integrated social studies education from Ohio University and my principal’s certification and master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Describe your professional career—your job and at what school(s). My career in education began in the Ringgold School District as a high school social studies teacher and head baseball coach. I was then hired in the Upper St. Clair School District as an eighth grade social studies teacher at Fort Couch Middle School. In addition to my teaching duties, I helped to develop and instruct the leadership academy, served as professional learning community facilitator, delivered professional development initiatives, and coached varsity baseball and seventh grade football. My first administrative position was in the North Allegheny School District, where I served as assistant principal at Carson Middle School. Now, I am honored and privileged to come back to USC to be the principal at Boyce Middle School.

As an administrator, what do you miss most about being a teacher? The kids. Although administrators still have the opportunity to go into the classrooms, the daily interactions are different. I try to make it a point to get Daniel O’Rourke into the classrooms as much as possible because it is truly rewarding to watch students learn and observe the talents of the teachers. Where did you grow up? Where do you currently reside? I grew up in Monongahela, but currently reside in South Fayette with my wife, Lauren, and our two children, Kaden (two and a half), and Gianna (six months). What are your hobbies and activities? My kids keep me busy, and there is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with them. I also enjoy sports, fitness, nutrition, and although it sounds cliché because of my profession, one of my main hobbies is learning. In addition to reading for pleasure, I continually read to learn because my mind constantly yearns for new information. What is your initial impression of Boyce? Boyce is an outstanding school, with a talented staff and hard-working students. The building is beautifully designed with offerings I wish I had when I was in school. The staff, students, and parents have supported me and made me feel very welcomed. Prior principal Amy Pfender did an exceptional job, and I look forward to continuing the tradition of making Boyce Middle School one of the premier middle schools in Pennsylvania. n

USC Students Named as National Merit Semifinalists and Commended Students Fourteen Upper St. Clair High School students have been designated as semifinalists and 21 have been named as commended students in the 2016 National Scholarship Program conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). The students designated as semifinalists are Christopher Adamo, Gaurav Bhushan, Zian Chen, Jacob Heilman, Emily Hobart, Hunter Lantzman, Sarina Mak, Yein Christina Park, Joseph Paul, Akshay Prasadan, Mohammad Rahman, Hannah Tyger, Steven Wagner, and Ryan Whyte. The commended students are Hannah Cafaro, Zachary Christiansen, Charles Hendrix, Abdul Khan, Meghan Matheny, Liam McClelland, John Miller, Amanda Mittelman, Thomas Mologne, Michael Nastac, Geet Punjabi, Pedro Quiroga, Ajinkya Rai, Cara Ravasio, Mariya Savinov, Vidhi Shah, John Shea, Bennett Sneath, 32

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Rachel VanRyzin, Hannah Wilding, and Braedon Wong. Approximately 1.5 million juniors from more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2014 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), an examination

measuring critical reading, mathematics, and writing achievement that serves as an initial screening. Approximately 16,000 advance to become semifinalists and about 34,000 are commended. Congratulations to these students on this outstanding academic accomplishment! n

National Merit semifinalists, left to right, are Yein Christina Park, Gaurav Bhushan, Hunter Lantzman, Jacob Heilman, Sarina Mak, Zian Chen, Steven Wagner, Chris Adamo, Emily Hobart, and Akshay Prasadan. Not pictured are Joseph Paul, Mohammad Rahman, Hannah Tyger, and Ryan Whyte. Spring 2016

Amy Pfender—USC’s New Director of Student Support Services

Stepping into the vacancy created by Ellie Stoehr’s retirement (see article on page 30) is the District’s new Director of Student Support Services, Amy Pfender. Amy’s employment with the District began in August 2005 as a special education teacher at Boyce. She was Elementary Special Education Amy Pfender Department chairperson in the 200910 school year, followed by her selection as Special Education curriculum leader in the 2010-11 school year. In 2013, Amy was named principal of Boyce Middle School. In addition to her master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, a bachelor’s degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, and an administrative principal certification, Amy holds certifications in K-12 supervisor of curriculum and instruction and K-12 supervisor of special education, as well as five Instructional II certifications (K-12 mentally and/or physically handicapped, early childhood, elementary, mid-level English, and mid-level mathematics). While busy transitioning from Boyce to the District’s central office, Amy took time to answer a few questions for TODAY. What will you miss most about Boyce? The people. I have worked with an amazing staff at Boyce

since my start in Upper St. Clair. The students are the highlight of my day and a continual reminder of why I chose education as a profession. The families are supportive, and I have enjoyed developing relationships with so many of them during my time at Boyce. What is your initial impression of your job as Director of Student Support Services? I am honored that that the District values my strengths and skill set to continually grow me as a leader. This is a fantastic opportunity for me professionally and personally. I know that I have a tremendous responsibility moving forward in the District. I am grateful to have worked with Ellie Stoehr and to have had an opportunity to transition with her while Dan O’Rourke has been transitioning into Boyce to take over the position of principal (see article on page 32). Where did you grow up? Where do you currently live? I grew up in the same neighborhood where I currently live. I am a graduate of the Fort Cherry School District, and I am fortunate to have built a home on the hill above my parent’s house. I live with my husband, Keith, son, Jonah (9), and daughter Emily (6). We also have one German shepherd and three cats. What are your hobbies and activities? Obviously, I enjoy spending time with my family. I enjoy shopping at Kohl’s, and I like to read when the time is available. I am a University of Pittsburgh sports fan and I teach Sunday school. I should probably exercise more. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Celebrate iCAN!

iCAN! iCAN what? Think “International Competency: Action Now!” During the second week of December, USCHS celebrated International Education Week, using a global perspective to focus on the theme of action. Students and guests taught others about global issues and shared opportunities to act locally now or to plan future action on an international scale. Started by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to promote international education and prepare Americans for a global environment, International Education Week has also had a theme of thinking globally in local situations. Having celebrated this week at the high school for more than a decade, the planning committee decided to focus on this theme of action. In addition to the traditional annual events of Speakers Day, the International Talent Show, the Global Quiz Bowl, IB Work Day with Obama International School, HS International Travel Opportunities, and the Multilinguals’ Breakfast, the following new events and activities were added: • Student Planning Committee, which included students Ben Nadler, Anthony Abinanti, Alyssa Montgomery, Gaurav Bhushan, and Emily Kennedy

• Evening Film Festival of short foreign documentaries and cartoons chosen by students • Photo contest of scenery, selfies, and humor with international backgrounds (winners: Caitlin Pyles, Jason Ferrie, and Anna Zacur) • USCHS travel opportunities with new information on the USCHS Certificate of Global Fluency • Student-sponsored action tables (Amnesty International, Multicultural Club, Environmental Club, global water issues, various student projects in the STEAM category, women’s issues, and Cookies for Malala) were expanded from the successful action day last year. What did students learn about international issues and the possibilities for action? Writing letters to leaders around the world whose citizens are in danger had a great impact on me. It was good for me to not only be aware of these situations, but to also take action in helping these situations become resolved.—Molly Krawczyk Although we can take action at home, we can also take action in places across the globe.—Gracie Eden I really enjoyed the action table on Blue Zones. It was interesting to see how people around the world live and how that contributes to their happiness and longevity.—Morgan Collins It felt good to help a cause greater than myself when I wrote a letter for Amnesty International.—Sarah McKenzie Kudos to the many departments that participated in this cross-disciplinary event. In addition to the traditional activities by the world language and social studies departments, the English department reviewed the persuasive writing style for the Amnesty International table, students in foods classes made international cookies for Malala funds, the science department participated in the International Hour of Code, and the art teachers displayed international digital art throughout the high school building. A heartfelt gracias to the teacher planning committee (Tanya Chothani, Pat Palazzolo, Doug Kirchner, Ron Sivillo, Bethany Chase, Tracy Smith, and Deanna Baird), the student planners, and the countless teachers and students who contributed activities for the various events. n

A marketplace of action opportunities

What’s New?

USCHS Certificate of Global Fluency USCHS students can now earn a Certificate of Global Fluency. Many states and an increasing number of high schools are creating similar certificates or concentrations. Created and sponsored by USC’s world language and social studies departments, this school certificate validates for colleges and scholarship sponsors the international learning experiences of the students. The certificate includes three components: course work (seven courses such as World History, World Language, Global Affairs, International Studies, and AP Environment), international travel/work (schoolsponsored exchanges, trips, service projects, and international marketing competition), and international activities (two clubs such as language clubs, Model UN, and Thai Club). Students can qualify for this certificate over the course of their four years at the high school. 34

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Spring 2016

Students listening to action options

Action tables

Contact a USCHS world language teacher, a social studies teacher, or a school counselor for additional information on the Certificate of Global Fluency.

Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ATTENTION UPPER ST. CLAIR RESIDENTS SKATE & SWIM at the MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER Open Year Round with Something for Everyone *Learn-to-Skate Classes/ Beginner & Advanced Hockey Clinics Youth Developmental & Adult Hockey Leagues Public Skating Summer Figure Skating School and Figure Skating Sessions Daily Adult Skating & Instructional Programs Speed Skating * Broomball Birthday Party Packages Newly renovated pool and bathouse *Individual & Family Season Swim Passes Available Pool Open Noon – 8 P.M. Daily beginning June 11

We Dream, We Do.

Kimberly Cooper, Food Services Director Joe Wightkin, Support Services Director

Call the Recreation Center at 412-561-4363 for times and rates Or visit us online at www.mtlebanon.org

CalcuSolve Wrap Up USC High School

October was a time of problem solving, critical thinking, and intense competition as members of USCHS’s CalcuSolve teams competed for regional math titles. The annual event was held at the Soldiers and Sailors ballroom in Oakland and sponsored by the II-VI Foundation and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. During the competition, the teams were challenged with seven individual and two team problems. The ninth and tenth grade team of Kevin Chen, Ariana Chiu, Spencer Miller, and Abbie Wagner placed first. Earning perfect scores were Aditi Chattopadhyay, Kevin Chen, Zian Chen, and Sam Ding. Following an intense tie-breaking round, Sam Ding came in second place in the individual level at the ninth and tenth grade competition, while the others received honorable mentions. Ninth and tenth grade team members included Kevin Chen, Ariana Chiu, Sam Ding, Matt Higgs, Wyatt Keating, Dina Leyzarovich, Serena Luo, Spencer Miller, Hridhay Reddy, Kriti Shah, and Abbie Wagner. Eleventh and 12th grade team members included Amna Amin, Aditi Chattopadhyay, Zian Chen, Zach Christiansen, Raahema Durrani, Jack Jenny, Michael Nastac, Vashisth Parekh, Yein Christina Park, Mahima Reddy, Jacob Riberi, and Yang Zhang. Connie Gibson and Pat Palazzolo were the teams’ coaches and facilitators.

Fort Couch Middle School This past November, hundreds of seventh and eighth grade students from western Pennsylvania worked in groups and as individuals to complete difficult math problems in a timed setting at the Duquesne University ballroom. The team of Katie Hobart, Braden Yates, Aleksa Rodic, and Ian Rankin came in second out of more than 100 teams. Competing against

more than 400 individuals, Aleksa Rodic tied for seventh. Braden Yates and Katie Hobart both ended the regular competition with perfect scores and entered into an intense tiebreaker with four other students from various schools. They came out victorious, with Braden coming in second and Katie taking first. Seventh and eighth grade team members included Katie Hobart, Braden Yates, Aleksa Rodic, Ian Rankin, Chand Vadalia, Christian Chiu, Harrison Chui, Alexander Shaw, and Dylan Fall. Team coaches and facilitators were Jason O’Roark, Connie Gibson, and Pat Palazzolo. The II-VI Foundation and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit sponsor the annual event. Upper St. Clair also helps to run the competition by providing students who conduct a variety of tasks, including delivering the problems to the competitors and assisting with the scoring. Boyce Middle School Also competing at Duquesne this past November were 13 studentmathematicians from Boyce. Boyce fielded three teams of four students each, as well as one alternate, in the annual fifth and sixth grade CalcuSolve tournament sponsored by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and the II-VI Foundation. During the competition, which included more than 400 participants from the region, students solved two problems as a team and seven problems individually. Team members included Eden Ma, Alex LeKachman, Sujay Shah, Keshav Narasimhan, Sophie Chen, Phoebe Chen, Dev Patel, Alex Todd, Will Closser, Bear Bottonari, Shane Williams, Nivedha Suresh, and Keelyn Hamm. Boyce teacher Kathy Hoedeman coached the team. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Girls’ Soccer—a Season to Remember Brianna Murgi

In the 2014 season, the Lady Panthers girls’ soccer team graduated ten key seniors, six of them starters. It was a very unfortunate ending to the season when two balls were on the field in the WPIAL playoff quarterfinal game and the other team continued to play, scoring an effortless goal. The ending to that season was a major heartbreak. Months later, we learned that the team was losing its head coach and half of the coaching staff. The future didn’t look bright for the 2015 Lady Panthers season, or so we thought. August 17, 2015, was the start of tryouts. Days before, it was announced that the team’s former head coach, Dave Gray, would be returning as coach. Dave, who had been gone for three years, was familiar with the senior class, since they were freshmen when he last coached. Going into preseason, no one knew what to expect. USC graduated two strong, experienced goalkeepers in 2014, which left the team without a starting keeper. Freshman Nikki Gibbons, who’d never donned a pair of goalie gloves, stepped up to the position. Nikki was one of six freshmen on the varsity roster, five of them were starters. Of the eight seniors on the team, four have committed to playing soccer in college at NCAA Division 1, 2, and 3 schools. Little did the players know the team’s season would extend to November 21, 2015. Regular Season Going into the regular season, USCHS girls’ soccer was ranked number one in the WPIAL, even after losing its entire back line and goalkeeper. Things began to click after our first home game and a 4–1 win against a very talented Fox Chapel team. The only loss of the regular season was a non-section match against long-time rival Peters Township. Even though we lost, that game was one of our best and we possessed the ball the majority of the game. Our one tie, played on a hot, sunny Sunday afternoon, was against the highly ranked 2014 state final runner-up Canon McMillan. With many chances to score in the first half, somehow we were down 0–2 after 40 minutes of play. Just a few minutes into the second half, the score was 0–3. Then, Maddy Rocks scored two goals within minutes of each other. Emma Hasco scored with just a few minutes left in 36

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USCHS Lady Panther state champions

the game to tie it up. The game went into double overtime and ended in a 3–3 tie. That day, the team members demonstrated perseverance, not giving up no matter the score. To get us ready to play, Coach Dave always says a few encouraging words to the team before we go out on the field. Before one game, he said, “The legs feed the wolf. Hunt the ball and attack as a pack.” He got that saying from the movie “Miracle.” While no one really knew what it meant, we liked it. We kept saying it over and over again until it became our motto. The parents started saying it, too. We even got shirts that had the saying on the back. At the end of the regular season, our team’s record was 13–1–1. Undefeated in our section, we gained the Section 5 champions title, as well. WPIAL Playoffs We knew what we needed to do to win the WPIAL, we just had to prove it. We were the number three seed going into playoffs and secured home field advantage, playing Kiski for the first game. We won 2–1, and continued our winning streak against Mt. Lebanon, 2–0. USC was on to the semi-final round to play Fox Chapel for the second time that season. We suspected they would be a better team than when we played them in the season opener. After 80 minutes of play, the score was 0–0. The first overtime remained scoreless. It was very nerve racking to know that one mistake could cost us the game. The second overtime started and we were exhausted, but we stayed composed. The second overtime ended with a 0–0 tie. Spring 2016

Next began the penalty kicks. Everyone was making their shots until Fox Chapel’s third PK was blocked by USC’s goalie, Nikki. It was USC’s PK turn, a kick that could end the game. USC’s Rachel Witte hit the back of the net and scored, and Upper St. Clair girls’ soccer was off to the WPIAL championship round for the first time since 2011! USC faced a very good Norwin team in the finals and fell to them 0–3 to place runner up in the WPIAL. While a tough loss, we knew we would get the chance to play them again in the state playoffs. We regained our focus and looked forward to our next goal: winning the PIAA championship. PIAA Playoffs Our first state playoff game was held in Erie against Erie-McDowell. We won that game and were on the road again to a much further destination in Chambersburg. Despite the four-hour bus ride and frigid

Seniors, left to right, front row: Brianna Murgi, Emma Hasco, Maddy Rocks, Jess Sourbeer; back row: Elaina Walnoha, Lauren Hamel, Peyton Bayer, Jessica Murphy

SD temperatures, we came ready to play. We beat them 2–1, with Emma Hasco scoring the game-winning goal with less than a minute left in the game. Our next game was against Norwin in our backyard at Peters Township stadium. We were ready for them. When the whistle blew, we exploded with high pressure, causing them to make mistakes. Thirteen seconds into the game, Maddy Rocks scored off a bad pass made by a Norwin defender, and before the second half, Landy Mertz scored, making it 2–0. Our team did not panic when Norwin scored in the second half, but remained composed until the final whistle blew. USC won 2–1 and was off to Hershey for the 2015 PIAA championship, only the second time in the team’s history. Slated to play favored Central Bucks East, the team traveled to Hershey the night before the game so that we could be fresh and rested. Standing in Hershey stadium seemed surreal, but when the game clock started, it feel like just another game. Central Bucks East had a lot of scoring opportunities, but all it takes is one shot. And for us, Emma Hasco took that one long shot. It sailed past the goalie and entered the net. The game continued, and after a dozen or so corner kicks from Central Bucks East, they got one in. With seven minutes left in the game, Emma scored once again and we regained the lead. The minutes ticked by until the game was over. We won the game 2–1 and were crowned the PIAA champions! The many dedicated hours of practice, including the running and conditioning, paid off. Having the gold medal placed around my neck was for me the best feeling in the world! I believe I speak on behalf of all the seniors when I say I could not have asked for a better way to end my senior season and high school soccer career. The chemistry on this year’s team was impeccable—we were all best friends. Never yelling or arguing on the field, our main goal was to always be positive in games and at practices. It seemed to make the way we played together magical. I will never forget this season, nor my teammates or coaches. The 2015 Lady Panthers soccer season goes down in history for winning its first PIAA state championship. Our storied journey and what we accomplished as a team made this a great season to remember. n

2015 2016 SEASON SERIES

In January, the team was presented with the Army National Guard ranking trophy by MaxPreps for ranking 33rd from more than 9000 high school girls’ soccer teams in the country. Author of this article, Brianna Murgi, a USCHS senior, plans to attend Wheeling Jesuit University to study nursing and to play soccer. She is the daughter of Len and Tracey Murgi.

Windmill Theatre | Australia

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IN THE CULTURAL DISTRICT

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Raising the trophy, left to right, are Jessica Murphy, Brianna Murgi, and assistant coach Alex Jaffe

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Spring 2016

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Did You Know? Did You Know? SD Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Willkommen! This past October, 21 students and three teachers from USCHS’s partner school in Leverkusen, Germany, spent time in Upper St. Clair, experiencing life with families in our community. The group also visited New York City and Washington D.C. during their trip. This summer, the 21 Upper St. Clair host students will travel to Germany with program sponsor Deanna Baird and other USC faculty members to live with the families of the same students they hosted. The cultural exchange program with students from Lise-Meitner Gymnasium in Leverkusen has occurred since 1992, the longest running exchange program at the high school.

Notre Dame Marching Band Visits USC This past November, students from Notre Dame’s marching band, including some USC alumni, performed for the students and discussed college life, admissions, and the value of being involved while in college. After school, the Notre Dame band worked with USCHS marching band students in small clinics, then enjoyed a dinner with them. After a pep rally downtown for Notre Dame alumni, they joined the USC band in the stadium stands for the Notre Dame vs. Pitt playoff game. The entire Notre Dame marching band rehearsed at Panther Stadium before heading to Heinz Field for the game.

Welcoming the German exchange students to USCHS

History Bowl Competing against schools throughout Allegheny County, a fifth grade team from Boyce Middle School took first place in the annual History Bowl held at the Heinz History Center last October. Evan Sarkett, Peer Khan, Maya Leyzarovich, and Nico Roth excelled in a WWII trivia quiz, a Pittsburgh sports timeline, creating a Heinz promotional radio advertisement, and answering Pittsburgh A-Z questions in the special collections exhibit. Fort Couch teams claimed first, second, and third places in the sixth through eighth grade division. Team members of the first place team were Vivek Babu, Rohan Mishra, Ishaan Shah, and Maxwell Turnwald; second place team were Christian Chiu, Reshma Gudla, Patrick Joyce, and Sophia Shi; and third place team were Jason Choi, Jack Clark, Basir Khan, and Aleksa Rodic.

Boyce members, left to right: Evan Sarkett, Peer Khan, Maya Leyzarovich, Nico Roth

Fort Couch members, left to right, front row: Christian Chiu, Patrick Joyce, Antara Cleetus, Reshma Gudla, Sophia Shi, Sadhana Boddhula, Rohan Mishra; back row: teacher/sponsor Connie Gibson, Ishaan Shah, Ryan Sarkett, Basir Khan, Jack Clark, Jason Choi, Aleksa Rodic, Maxwell Turnwald, Vivek Babu

Forensic Program Honored The Speech and Debate program at USC High School has earned significant recognition by the National Speech & Debate Association. Students earn points and degrees in the National Speech & Debate Association honor society based on competitive and service-related activities, ranging from the Degree of Merit with 25 or more points to the Degree of Premier Distinction with 1500 or more points. Because USC’s chapter achieved 100 or more degrees last year, it has ranked among the top ten percent of schools nationwide and earned membership in the association’s prestigious 100 Club. This milestone is remarkable because it demonstrates outstanding commitment to teaching students essential life skills, including communication, research, listening, writing, and organization.

Diamond Awardee David Watson, a member of Upper St. Clair High School’s English department, recently achieved 1000 career coaching points and his first Diamond Award from the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA). David started coaching for USC’s forensics team while he was a substitute teacher in the District during the 2006-07 school year. As a result, he fell in love with the activity and has coached the team to countless final rounds, numerous state and national appearances, and eight individual state championships. David Watson

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Spring 2016

Did You Know? Did You Know? SD Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Crafty Kids The Fort Couch seventh grade club Crafting for a Cause completed three projects to be proud of. Students made fleece blankets to donate to Pittsburgh C.A.T., a part of the Homeless Cat Management Team. Students made Halloween cards for patients at Children’s Hospital and Thanksgiving decorations for residents of Asbury Heights. Thanks to the Fort Couch PTSO for funding these projects!

Crafting for a Cause club members showoff the fleece blankets they made for foster kittens.

Chemistry Colors Our World Jillian Fishell, a fifth grader at Boyce, was the second place winner in the Pittsburgh Section of the American Chemical Society’s illustrated poem contest in support of the 2015 National Chemistry Week program. Jillian received a check for $25 and a certificate.

Left to right are Susan Fleckenstein, teacher/sponsor of the enrichment contest; Jillian Fishell; and Kristin Cilli, Jillian’s ELA teacher

Holiday Card Contest Winner Boyce Middle School student Rebecca Lang was a winner in the first-ever Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation’s Holiday Card Contest. Her card was one of eight distributed by the Foundation during the holiday season. Rebecca was also invited to attend a Penguins home regular-season game.

Rebecca Lang

Outstanding Music Makers Congratulations to the following students on their audition and acceptance into PMEA ensembles: Honors Jazz Ensemble: trumpet–James Boston, David Corbin; baritone saxophone–Daniel Geffrey; bass–Alex Wolfe; piano– Robbie Halpner District Choir: soprano–Carly DeCock; alto–Alexa Riegor, Zoe Rankin, Cara Ravasio, Mariya Savinov; tenor–Sammy Cancilla, Jonah Glunt, Ben Nadler, Jacob Ross, Kyle Warmbein; bass–Chase Banton, Connor Halloran, Jack Smith

Outstanding Educator Alex Shefler, a senior member of Upper St. Clair High School’s mathematics department, was nominated for and recently received the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award. This award recognizes the quality of education that Alex provides to students, as well as his commitment to carrying out the District’s mission of ensuring success for all learners. Alex was nominated for the award by a Alex Shefler former student.

Eight USCHS Seniors Sign NLIs, including Two All Americans Eight members of the Class of 2016 signed early national letters of intent (NLI) on signing day, November 11, to commit to playing a Division I college sport under the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). An NLI is a binding agreement between a prospective student-athlete and an NLI member institution. A prospective student-athlete agrees to attend the institution full-time for one academic year (two semesters or three quarters). The institution agrees to provide athletics financial aid for one academic year (two semesters or three quarters) to the athlete. Additionally, two of the eight are All Americans. Sami Amos was recently named a member of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) tenth annual Under Armour Girls High School All-America team. Emma Hasco, a member of this year’s PIAA AAA championship girls’ soccer team, has been honored as a 2015 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Fall High School All-American.

Showing off their soon-to-be attending college sportswear, Upper St. Clair seniors, announcing their intention to participate in the NCAA early signing, are (left to right) Braedon Wong–Cornell University for swimming, Emily Yoos–John Carroll University for swimming, Andrew Wheeler–George Washington University for baseball, Charlotte Madson–William & Mary College for tennis, Leah Kern–Mercyhurst College for volleyball, Emma Hasco–Penn State University for soccer, Sami Amos–Duke University for volleyball, and Kevin Liu–University of South Carolina for swimming. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints... Baker

Eisenhower

Council

Holly Spina, President

The Upper St. Clair Parent Teacher Council is pleased and proud of all the events each unit offers. There seems to be something for every child in our District! While Council may not seem as exciting as the school building boards, we certainly keep busy. The printed directory is back again this year, and the A to Z app is available, as well. I am amazed at how many people move within our District. If you did not purchase a printed directory, there are still some available. It is a useful tool for graduation announcements and party invitations! Those wishing to purchase a directory (cost $10) should contact Holly Spina at pghspina@verizon.net or 412-851-6984. Brooke Tarcson, board advisor extraordinaire, has initiated a USC golf umbrella sale. Proceeds for this practical item benefit USC PTC Outreach. There are a limited number of umbrellas available, so if you are interested in purchasing one, contact Brooke at brooketarcson@hotmail.com. It makes a great gift for graduates, empty nesters, an older neighbor, or even to treat yourself. Purchasing an umbrella not only supports a great cause, but it may guarantee USC plenty of sunny days!

Brooke Tarcson shows off the USC umbrella

High School PTSO

Melissa Epler, President

When you have a student body as impressive as the one at Upper St. Clair High School, it is impossible to summarize some of the school’s 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Streams

Boyce

recent successes and activities in a short article without leaving something out. If you ever need to be inspired about what the young adults of our community are capable of, just take a few minutes to peruse the District’s website. You will be blown away! Our students are smart! In October, 14 USCHS students were designated as semifinalists and 21 were named as commended students in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. (See article on page 32.) Our students are accomplished athletes! For the first time in program history, the Lady Panther soccer team won the PIAA AAA state championship. (See article on page 36.) The Boys’ Golf Team was featured on the KDKA Children’s Hospital “Free-Care Telethon” in December, where they presented a check for $4414, money that was raised by the number of birdies they made during the season. Many other athletes have been honored with individual awards and recognitions. Our students are musical! Our Chanteclair choir had the opportunity to participate in a master class with the Grammy award-winning Chanticleer vocal ensemble, and our marching band had an amazing experience learning from and working with the University of Notre Dame marching band. Numerous student singers and musicians were chosen for PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) honors choirs and jazz, orchestra, and band festivals. Our students are global-minded! Our annual International Education Week gave students the opportunity to learn about educational travel opportunities through the school, take action on a variety of global issues, hear from international speakers, and raise money for global charities. (See article on page 34.) Our students give back! Student Council members collected money voluntarily from students and ordered $1200 in food baskets from Giant Eagle. Students and Dan Holzer, USCHS social studies teacher and student activities director, delivered 40 complete holiday meals to various families and shelters on December 23. Fort Couch PTSO

Daphna Gans, President

With a strong emphasis on student-centered learning, Fort Couch has always valued the crucial role of parental involvement in the students’ successful education experience. Spring 2016

Fort Couch

USCHS

Parent involvement in middle school is certainly different than it is in elementary school. The different structure of the school day makes volunteering in the classroom not as common as it is in elementary schools. In addition, some of our students as tweens and teens do not always get as excited to see their parents at school as they did when they were in grade school. However, Fort Couch offers many opportunities for parents to stay involved and engaged with the school. Of course, the PTSO and its many committees offer multiple ways to get involved. There is always a need for parents to lead and participate in many of the school’s iconic activities, including the Reach Out giving campaign, in-school evening socials for the students, Valentine’s dance, yearbook, Caught You Being Good activities, Field Day, and many others. The different committees require a varying degree of time commitment, with some only requiring a very limited amount of time that can be done remotely from home. This year, the PTSO introduced special presentations immediately following the school’s PTSO monthly meetings. These presentations provide information and insight into curricular activities, with an opportunity for productive conversations between parents, staff, and administration. School counselor Jace Palmer and guest speaker Mike Burch delivered the school’s first presentation titled “Bryan’s Choice.” Mr. Burch’s son passed away of a heroin overdose several years ago, and this presentation has become a part of the eighth grade guidance curriculum and is delivered to the eighth graders in guidance class every spring. Jace wanted “to also offer this presentation to parents so that they can see ‘in person’ this powerful, emotional message.” Parents’ feedback indicated that indeed this was a powerful presentation. Counselor Lauren Madia delivered a second presentation to parents, reviewing the career unit taught to the eighth grade students. Immediately preceding the holidays, there was an Open Mic with Fort Couch principal Joe DeMar, where parents brought many questions and had the opportunity to share ideas and get insight about the happenings at the school. We are fortunate to live in a community that values education. We look forward to welcoming the returning parents and the new incoming seventh grade parents next year who we hope will engage and become involved at Fort Couch.

... a USC PTA Council Feature Boyce PTO

Brenda Tomsheck, President

Although this article is appearing in March, I’m writing it on the heels of New Year’s Day with the calendar freshly flipped to 2016. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the Boyce PTO events from the first half of the 2015-16 school year, in addition to looking ahead to all that we’ll offer the students this spring. This is especially true as Boyce welcomes our new principal, Dan O’Rourke, and we update him on the many exciting events and programs provided by the Boyce PTO. An overview of PTO events at Boyce would not be complete without mentioning a few popular events that already took place this past fall. The Book Fair started things off in September and Author Day was held in October. Boyce was pleased to welcome back local author and USC alumna, Heather Terrell, who did a separate assembly for each grade. Other exciting PTO events at Boyce included two annual events held in January: the Spelling Bee and Read-for-a-Reason. As in previous years, the Read-for-a-Reason read-a-thon challenged students to read independently for pledged dollar amounts. Student teams in grades five and six competed to see which team could accumulate the most reading minutes each day. Students were further motivated by knowing that funds raised were going towards the purchase of a gaga pit as a PTO gift for Boyce. Don’t know what a gaga pit is? Ask a Boyce student; they’ll be happy to tell you! A popular upcoming Boyce PTO event is Science Extravaganza, scheduled for April 25. Held every other year at Boyce for all students, Science Extravaganza is a day filled with handson science experiments, an assembly, and guest speakers. And also still to come before the school year wraps up, the Boyce PTO will coordinate a sixth grade graduation party held at Fort Couch Middle School in May and Field Day for all the Boyce students in June. We hope the students enjoy all these events as well as the other activities and programs generously supported by the Boyce PTO. Baker Elementary PTA

Kristin Polochak, President

Although we are only halfway through the school year, Baker Elementary students have been busy with fun events and look forward to more as the year proceeds. The school’s largest event of the year is always the Baker Boo Bash. Some new activities were added and everyone had a wonderful time. The photo booth was a favorite, allowing kids to dress up and pose with friends. The adult silent auction was a huge success that provided many exciting prizes, including Disney tickets. Late fall brought more fun, including many of

the school’s grade level socials. Most memorable is the fourth grade social, as the children go to Simmons farm for a hayride, bonfire, and other fun activities. The students really look forward to these organized events to spend time with classmates outside the typical school setting. Other events this year included Reflections, where 25 participants entered the competition, 14 of which advanced to regionals. The fall book fair is always something both students and parents enjoy. For Author Day we welcomed author Marcie Aboff. The children really enjoyed her visit and many of them purchased her books to enjoy some future reading. Each December, everyone enjoys shopping at the Enchanted Shop; it is truly heartwarming to see how excited all of the kids get when they pick out gifts for their family members. I can only imagine how wonderful everyone feels to receive these gifts. Now that the busy time of year has passed and the holidays are over, we are all settled into the winter. This is a great time of year to have a spelling bee! Homebound when temperatures fall, students can spend their time preparing. We are also preparing for the school’s variety show. What a wonderful way to fill our hours by polishing performances. I look forward to these events, as well as the spring thaw and everything that follows. Eisenhower Elementary PTO Amy Garces, President

The “Good Eggs” of Eisenhower were cracking up with all the fun-filled, family events held throughout the winter. This year kicked off early with the school’s New Year’s Eve countdown held during the winter class parties in December. Balloons, party hats, noise makers, and bubble wrap helped to make the school celebration just as festive, and perhaps even louder, than the official Times Square event. The party continued in January as our third graders moseyed along at the third level “Rodeo Night” social. Cowpokes and parents raced, lassoed, and square danced the night away with a “Howdy-Do” for all! Families of all grade levels had a chance to try their luck at the school’s annual Bingo Night, held at Upper St. Clair High School. This year’s bonus, Kona Ice treats, made everyone a winner “B-4” the night was over! The chill of February couldn’t stop the family fun. The first graders went wild for the guests at the first level social. A menagerie of wildlife entertained kids and parents alike as the crowd learned about how the animals live in their natural habitats and in captivity. Families continued to share the love when many parents helped out at the Valentine’s Ice Cream social, serving up sundaes with plenty of sweets for all Eisenhower students. One last nod to winter fun came at the “Winter Wonderland”-themed second level breakfast, a delicious way to brighten a dark and Spring 2016

chilly February morning. We look forward to more family fun in the spring with plenty of activities ahead! Of course, none of these events could take place without the enthusiasm and support of all our Eisenhower families. We cannot thank you enough! Time shared with family is what makes lasting memories for our students, encouraging togetherness and the value of being a “Good Egg” to all who care for us. Streams Elementary PTO Alissa Mammana, President

There are many informational, enrichment, and entertaining programs at Streams Elementary that students and parents enjoy throughout the year. Each year, all events are carefully chosen by the PTO and school administrators to ensure that they are worth the investment. Many years ago, Streams began the tradition of providing each grade level with a special night. This night is designed to be entertaining for the students of that grade and their parents. Some examples of performers that attend are professional storytellers, the Carnegie Science Center’s Fire and Ice presentation, magicians, the Wild World of Animals, and “The Birdman,” which, as it sounds, performs a wonderful bird show. In addition to each grade level having its own special level night, each grade also has its own Open Mics. These are hosted at the homes of parents, and provide parents the opportunity to connect with the school’s principal, Dr. Claire Miller, and one of the teachers in that grade. Parents can ask questions in an informal setting and hear about the educational curriculum covered throughout the school year. I personally have never missed an Open Mic, and find them to be very informative and invaluable. Other great presentations in the fall included the Veterans Day speakers who always connect well with the children, and Snuggle Up and Read. For the reading program, guest readers are invited to the school in the evening, and children, dressed in their pajamas, visit three classrooms and have various stories read to them. In January, the school held a CLO assembly entitled “Innovative Innovators” that portrayed famous Pittsburgh inventors through the presentation of an entertaining play. A few other fun PTO-sponsored events at Streams are family bingo, the book fair, Field Day, the Spelling Bee, and after-school programs. This year, Streams has expanded the after-school programs to introduce kids to more activities. Those programs have been a huge success. We are very proud to provide these special programs to our families, and we are always looking for new and exciting opportunities to broaden the minds of our children. n UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T Township Commissioners

2016 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

Mark D. Christie

Rex A. Waller

Nicholas J. Seitanakis

Robert W. Orchowski

Day 412-831-9000 2017*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-5065 2017*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-220-4434 2019*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2019*

President Ward 4

Vice President Ward 2

Ward 1

Ward 3

Ronald J. Pardini

Russell R. Del Re

Daniel R. Paoly

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2019*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-287-9076 2019*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2017*

Ward 5

At-Large

• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets at the C&RC the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Service Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed. • The Library Board meets as needed.

At-Large

*Date indicates expiration of term.

All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.

Glenn Dandoy Steps Down as Commissioner

Thanks and congratulations go to Glenn Dandoy for his eight years of service as an Upper St. Clair Township commissioner. Among the highlights of his time in office were serving as vice president of the Board of Commissioners; chair and member of the Community Development committee, the Human Resources committee, and the Public Safety committee; member of the Parks and Recreation committee; and representative or alternate to the South Hills Area Council of Governments (SHACOG). As part of the Community Development committee, Glenn spearheaded initial research leading to the preparation of the McLaughlin Run Corridor Study. He was also an active board member during the approval, construction, and opening of the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park. Glenn served on the board from January 2008 through December 2015 and said he was very grateful for his time as a commissioner, calling it a Glenn Dandoy (left) receives a proclamation “great experience.” n from Commissioner Robert Orchowski

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

Newly Elected Commissioners

The Honorable D. Michael Fisher (center) swore in Upper St. Clair’s newly elected Township commissioners prior to the board’s January 4 regular meeting. Pictured, left to right, are incumbent Nicholas Seitanakis, new Ward 5 commissioner Ronald Pardini, and incumbents Robert Orchowski and Russell Del Re.

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings September 8, 2015

Approximately 32 people attended.

The Board • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC15-0003–CVS Pharmacy–Unified Conditional Use and Preliminary Land Development Approval to the Regular Board Meeting of October 5, 2015. • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC15-0010–127 McMurray Road–Distributed Antenna System–Conditional Use Approval to the Regular Board Meeting of October 5, 2015. • Adopted Resolution No. 1604 to establish the public hearing date of Monday, October 5, 2015, for the adoption of the 2015–2025 Comprehensive Plan. • Renamed the “old” Recreation Center at 1770 McLaughlin Run Road to the “McLaughlin Run Activity Center.” • Adopted Bill No. 13-15 amending Chapter 15 of the Code of the Township entitled “Boards and Commissions” and Chapter 33 of the Code of the Township entitled “Personnel System” to exclude the position of Deputy Chief of Police from the Civil Service Requirements.

November 2, 2015

Approximately 60 people attended.

The Board • Adopted Bill No. 16-15 Re. PLC15-0013–Pazzo Italian Bistro–Outdoor Dining–Conditional Use Approval. • Adopted Resolution No. 1605 Re. Adoption of the 20152025 Comprehensive Plan. • Closed Public Hearing Re. 2016 Proposed Budget. • Adopted Resolution No. 1606 authorizing Stanley Louis Gorski, Executive Director, South Hills Area Council of Governments, as the official to file all applications, documents, and forms between the Township of Upper St. Clair and the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development. Approval of Contract • USDA Wildlife Raleigh, NC.........................................................$37,500 Special Use Culling Permit/Prescribed Activities

The Board • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC15-0002–Tuscany Pointe–Planned Residential Development–Tentative Approval to the Regular Board Meeting of January 4, 2016. • Adopted Bill No. 17-15 Re. Adoption of the 2016 Annual Budget. • Approved the 2016 Fee Schedule for the Township Engineer. • Adopted Resolution No. 1607 Re. Authorizing the Township of Upper St. Clair to enter into a Consent Order and Agreement with the Allegheny County Health Department. Approval of Contract • Glassmere Fuel Service, Inc......... OPIS Daily Pittsburgh Curtisville, PA Average Index plus Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Fixed Margin of $.0152/gallon of gasoline, $.0212/gallon of diesel fuel, and $.032 on winterized diesel fuel additive • State Pipe Services, Inc.............................2016–$ 59,772 Cranberry Township, PA 2017–$ 61,952 Internal Sectional Repair (Spot Lining) 2018–$ 64,452 and Manhole Rehabilitation Project 2019–$ 67,452

October 5, 2015

Approximately 22 people attended.

Recognitions • Commissioner Waller presented a Proclamation to Steven Moore, Chief of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department, designating October 4-10, 2015, as Fire Prevention Week in Upper St. Clair. • Commissioner Waller recognized members of the Volunteer Fire Department for their years of service, including Douglas Dennig–40 years, Donald Gerlach–35 years, John Doebler–20 years, and Michael Gannon–10 years.

Among those recognized for their years of service was Douglas Dennig (left center), shown here with Russell Rauch (far left), Chief Steve Moore, and Commissioner Rex Waller. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 14-15 Re. PLC15-0003–CVS Pharmacy–Unified Conditional Use and Preliminary Land Development Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 15-15 Re. PLC15-0010–127 McMurray Road–Distributed Antenna System–Conditional Use Approval. • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC15-0013–Pazzo Italian Bistro–Outdoor Dining–Conditional Use Approval to the Regular Board Meeting of November 2, 2015. • Continued Public Hearing Re. Adoption of the 2015–2025 Comprehensive Plan to the Regular Board Meeting of November 2, 2015. • Approved a contract with Maher Duessel CPAs for the Township’s auditing services for the 2015, 2016, and 2017 audit years, with a cost not to exceed $71,250. • Approved the appointment of Neal Holmes to the Civil Service Board of the Township of Upper St. Clair for the remainder of the term to expire in December 2015.

December 7, 2015

Approximately 2 people attended.

Adam Benigni Named Director of Planning and Community Development

This past September, Adam Benigni, AICP, was hired as the Township’s director of Planning and Community Development. A Ford City native, Adam spent the last ten years in Naples, Florida, working for eight years as a senior planner with the city, and the past two years as a land development manager for a private development firm. Adam graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, earning his BA in history with a minor in geography and his MS in geography and regional planning. Adam Benigni UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY interviewed Adam and asked the following questions. Why did you choose to leave Florida and move to Pennsylvania? My wife, Loree, and I are both from western Pennsylvania; she’s from Erie and I’m from Ford City. I was finishing up a few projects in Naples, Florida, and my wife wanted to move closer to family. It’s been good for our kids to better know our extended family more than if we’d remained in Florida. I really like to tell people I moved here for the weather! Where did you grow up? Where do you currently reside? I grew up in Ford City, Pennsylvania, but I also lived in Illinois for four years when I was a kid. I’ve also spent some time in Virginia, South Carolina, and the past ten years in Naples, Florida. My wife and I recently moved to Bethel Park, with our children, Drew (four) and Jake (one). No pets right now but, of course, the kids want us to get a dog. What’s your initial impression working in Upper St. Clair? The opportunity to work for the Township has been great! We have a great team and great leadership, and the residents that I’ve met so far have been really nice. I’m happy to be here and I expect to do great things for the Township in the future. What do you like to do in your free time? I like golfing, hiking, playing with my kids, and spending time in the gym working out. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC’s Comprehensive Plan Adopted Katie Stringent, Planning and Zoning Coordinator

On November 2, 2015, the Township Board of Commissioners adopted the 2015-2025 Comprehensive Plan entitled “Investing in Our Quality of Life.” The adoption of this plan was the culmination of more than two years of community planning efforts. Township staff, along with the assistance of comprehensive plan consultants Environmental Planning and Design (EPD), assembled a plan that identifies significant influences and goals associated with land use, infrastructure, connectivity, and resources within the community. The plan will serve as a guide to Township improvements for the next ten years and establish the framework within which community leaders can work toward realistic deliverables. Building on the successful achievements of the 2005-2015 Comprehensive Plan, the 2015-2025 plan centers around the central theme of continuing to develop the Township as a great place to live, learn, and play. This theme is further accomplished by the identification of six core elements, or commitments: • Advancement of the community vision • Departmental responsibility • Recreational and cultural space • Transportation connectivity • Communications and outreach • Understanding community characteristics In order to achieve these commitments, both shortand long-term recommendations have been developed to serve as benchmarks for future decision-making. As with any planning process, public input serves as the cornerstone of plan development. Through countless public meetings, focus groups, the Quality of Life survey, and a public open house, input was gathered from stakeholders that became the foundation for the identification of the plan recommendations. The final Comprehensive Plan document is an essential resource for the community and serves as a tool to advance the Township’s goals and objectives. As the planning process concludes, the Township would like to thank everyone who participated in the process of creating this plan, including the valuable input from the community’s stakeholders. A copy of the 2015-2025 Comprehensive Plan is available in the USC Township Library, the Department of Planning and Community Development located in the Township building, and on the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org. n Call the Department of Planning and Community Development at 412-831-9000, extension 501, if you would like further information regarding this document. 46

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

Department of Finance 2016 Budget Highlights General Fund Budget Overview In preparing the 2016 budget, the Township continued to employ the streamlined, focused approach established in prior years. This process yielded a slight increase in the 2016 budget operating expenditures for the General Fund of 0.7% from the 2015 budget. In 2016, Township staff will continue to search for new ways to provide the level of services and programs that the residents have come to expect in the most cost-efficient manner. This budget acknowledges continuing economic uncertainty, the need to maintain fiscal stability by various means, and the need to maintain critical infrastructure and equipment. Where the Money Comes From The Township’s major operating revenues in 2016 continue to be real estate tax and earned income tax. The balance of operating revenue comprises other taxes and other revenue. Other taxes include real estate transfer, public utilities, sales & use, and local services taxes. Other revenue consists of licenses and permits, fines, fees, rental & service agreements, investment earnings, recreation fees, and other non-tax revenue. General Fund revenues are projected to be $20,458,661 in 2016, an increase of 1.54% from the 2015 budget. Notable increases in General Fund revenue include real estate transfer tax revenue and insurance dividends, both of which are projected $85,000 higher than their 2015 budget amounts. The Township’s real estate tax rate will remain at 3.83 mills and the earned income tax rate will remain at 0.80%. The General Fund is projected to end the year with an unassigned fund balance of $3,462,437, or 16.9% of estimated 2016 General Fund revenues, which is in line with recommended fund balance levels of no less than two months of General Fund revenues. Projected revenues are shown in the following bar chart:

Where the Money Goes General Fund operating expenditures are projected to be $14,867,404 in 2016, an increase of 0.7% from the 2015 budget. The remaining difference of projected revenues over operating expenses of $5,483,132 will be used to fund the debt service costs for 2016 of $1,122,131, transfers of $4,033,101, and a fund balance contribution of $327,900. The 2016 budget will maintain the General Fund balance at a level necessary for the Township to maintain its AA+ bond rating. The primary programs of the Township are Public Safety (which includes the Police, the Volunteer Fire Department, and Animal Control), and Public Works. These programs represent 64.8% of the operating budget. Projected expenses are shown in the following bar chart: 2016 Budgeted Expenditures Major Category

$6,000,000 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 $3,000,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $-

Public Safety

Public Works

General Government

Debt Service

Operating Transfers

Recreation Community Development

Library

Capital Projects Fund

The Capital Projects Fund is funded by an operating transfer from the General Fund and the Fund’s capital reserve. Projected expenditures in the Capital Projects Fund for 2016 are shown in the following pie chart:

2016 Budgeted Revenues Major Category $9,000,000 $8,000,000 $7,000,000 $6,000,000

IT Equip. & Software, $487,500

$5,000,000 $4,000,000 $3,000,000

Police Vehicles & Equipment, $197,000

Building Renovations, $695,000

$2,000,000 $1,000,000 $-

Refuse Costs

Real Estate Tax

Earned Income Tax

Real Estate Transfer Tax

Other Taxes

Other Revenue

Other Capital Expenditures, $3,222,500

PW Vehicles & Equipment, $409,000

Annual Street Program, $1,060,000

Sidewalk Program, $384,000

For more information, visit www.twpusc.org.

Cont. on page 48

Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Cont. from page 47

Department of Finance 2015 and 2016 General Fund Budget General Fund Appropriations by Major Programs

Major Revenue Sources 2015 Budget Real Estate Tax $7,805,500 Earned Income Tax 8,414,000 Local Services Tax 265,000 Real Estate Transfer Tax 890,000 Public Utilities Tax 22,500 Local Option Sales & Use Tax 490,000 Licenses and Permits 158,025 Fees and Fines 525,450 Rental Income 82,400 Investment Earnings 3,500 Service Agreements 216,100 Other Non-Tax Revenue 902,957 Recreation Fees 373,000 Total Revenues Fund Balance Total Major Revenues

2016 Increase Percentage Budget (Decrease) Change $7,856,000 $50,500 0.6% 8,470,000 56,000 0.7% 265,000 - 0.0% 975,000 85,000 9.6% 22,500 - 0.0% 505,000 167,275 525,700 91,900 4,000 221,100 976,186 379,000

15,000 3.1% 9,250 5.9% 250 0.0% 9,500 11.5% 500 14.3% 5,000 2.3% 73,229 8.1% 6,000 1.6%

$20,148,432 $20,458,661 $310,229 1.5% - - - 0.00% $20,148,432 $20,458,661

$310,229

1.5%

2015 Budget

2016 Increase Percentage Budget (Decrease) Change

General Government $1,781,317 $1,861,473 $80,156 4.5% Public Safety 4,957,715 5,001,270 43,555 0.9% Community Development 606,662 624,717 18,055 3.0% Public Works 4,689,599 4,697,966 8,367 0.2% Refuse Collection 1,191,500 1,204,500 13,000 1.1% Recreation & Leisure Services 589,402 544,124 (45,278) (7.7%) Library 904,559 915,064 10,505 1.2% Unallocated Insurance Costs 146,650 126,415 (20,235) (13.8%) Total Operating Expenditures $14,867,404 $14,975,529 $108,125 0.7% Operating Transfers 4,148,013 4,033,101 (114,912) (2.8%) Debt Service Payments 1,133,015 1,122,131 (10,884) (1.0%) Non-Operating Expenditures $5,281,028 $5,155,232 $(125,796) (2.4%) Total Expenditures $20,148,432 $20,130,761 $(17,671) (0.1%) Fund Balance - 327,900 327,900 0.00% Total Major Programs $20,148,432 $20,458,661 $310,229 1.5%

Boyce Mayview Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) Fund Current demographics show the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) membership comprises 60% USC residents and 40% non-residents. Total annual memberships reached 3360 in September 2015. Membership revenue is projected to grow by 1.2% from the 2015 budgeted amount. Other revenue sources in the C&RC Fund include facility rental revenue and program revenue, which are estimated at $91,800 and $403,000, respectively, for 2016. The General Fund will appropriate $1,173,766 for debt service costs associated with the construction of the Gen Fund Operating C&RC building. The General Fund is Appropriation, also budgeted to contribute $490,218 $490,218 to support the common area operations of the C&RC. Facility Revenue,

Total expenses in the C&RC Fund are projected to increase by 2.9% from the 2015 budgeted amount. Some reasons for the additional expenses include wages associated with programs and increased maintenance demands, as well as increases in the need for maintenance supplies and marketing materials. There is an estimated capital transfer of $645,000 to the C&RC Capital Account for future capital funding. Projected revenue and expenditures are shown in the following two pie charts: n Other Revenue, $59,250

Distributed Costs, $303,753

Gen Fund Debt Service Appropriation, $1,173,766

$91,800

Debt Service, $1,173,766

Membership Revenue, $3,345,000

Program Revenue, $403,000

Commodities, $284,900

Personal Services, $2,092,001

Contractual Services, $1,062,650

2016 Real Estate Tax Notice and Corresponding Payment Schedule The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District hereby give public notice to all Township real estate taxpayers of the payment schedule of each taxing body for the year 2016.

The Township’s real estate tax millage rate for 2016 has been set at 3.83 mills. The School District will adopt its real estate tax millage rate for fiscal year 2016-17 at its June 2016 School Board meeting.

Township Real Estate Tax Schedule for 2016 Date Tax Period May 1 ......................................... Billing date May 1–June 30 .......................... 2% discount July 1–August 31 ....................... Face Amount September 1–November 30 ....... 10% penalty December 1 ............................... Lien date

School District Real Estate Tax Schedule for 2016 Date Tax Period July 1 ......................................... Billing date July 1–August 31 ....................... 2% discount September 1–October 31 ........... Face amount November 1–November 30 ....... 10% penalty December 1 ............................... Lien date

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Spring 2016

This notice reminds all taxpayers that they are responsible to see that their property is properly assessed and taxed, and to ask for the 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

Department of Finance 2016 Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Rate Notice and Corresponding Payment Schedule The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District hereby give public notice to all residents of the Township that the Earned Income and Net Profits tax rates of the Township and the School District for 2016 are 0.80% and 0.50%, respectively, of taxable income as defined by Act 32 of 2008. Thus, the Township taxpayer’s total rate for 2016 is 1.30%. All unincorporated business owners of Upper St. Clair Township and School District are also taxed upon the net profits from their business at the same aforementioned rate and must remit their tax liability

quarterly to Jordan Tax Service using the following schedule for 2016: Date Tax Period April 30, 2016 .........1st quarter 2016 Tax Estimate due July 31, 2016............2nd quarter 2016 Tax Estimate due October 31, 2016........3rd quarter 2016 Tax Estimate due January 31, 2017..........4th quarter 2016 Tax Estimate due

Quarterly tax payments are required. A taxpayer whose employer does not withhold local earned income tax must file and pay quarterly tax on the aforementioned schedule. Final tax returns are required for all taxpayers. Final returns for the 2015 tax year are due on April 15, 2016. n

T The Township of Upper St. Clair Federal and State Elected Officials Federal Government

Elected Executive Officials President Barack H. Obama Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Comments Line: 202-456-1111 Fax: 202-456-1414 Elected Legislative Officials U.S. Senators Website: www.senate.gov Patrick J. Toomey – 412-803-3501 Fax: 412-803-3504 Robert P. Casey, Jr. – 412-803-7370 Fax: 412-803-7379 U.S. House of Representatives Tim Murphy – 18th District 412-344-5583 • Fax 412-429-5092

Pennsylvania State Government

Sanitary Sewer Fund

The sanitary sewer user fee multiplier rate has been set to remain at 2.25 in 2016, but billed rates will increase due to an 11% rate increase from ALCOSAN. The Township may need to adjust the multiplier if a debt issuance is required during the year to finance any major projects that are not in the 2016 budget. As it has in the past, the Township will continue to satisfy any regulatory requirements that may be imposed with regard to sanitary sewer improvement and maintenance. The Township’s costs Distributed Costs, $61,587 for sewer processing fees Personal Services, in 2016 are projected at $259,745 $3,663,000. Major sewer Commodities, Debt Service, $39,850 rehabilitation costs are bud$851,570 geted at $1,720,000. Net Other assets at the end of 2016 Contractual Services, are estimated to be $50,000. $195,500 Projected expenses are Sewer Sewer shown in the following pie Rehabilitation, Processing $1,720,000 chart: Fees, $3,663,000

Elected Executive Officials

800-932-0784 www.state.pa.us Governor Tom Wolf Lieutenant Governor Mike Stack Auditor General Eugene DePasquale State Treasurer Timothy A. Reese Office of the Attorney General Elected Legislative Officials State Senator Guy Reschenthaler 412-571-2169 • Fax: 412-571-2000 37th District State Representative John Maher 412-831-8080 • Fax: 412-831-8083 40th District

2016 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 raised sewage service charges and usage fees by 11% for 2016. The sewer user multiplier rate that is used to calculate the Township’s cost reimbursement remains at 2.25 for the year. The Township of Upper St. Clair contracts with Jordan Tax Service to provide the billing and collection of the Township’s monthly sewer user fees. n All questions or concerns regarding sewage billing should be directed to Jordan Tax Service at 412-835-5243, option 4, or via email to sewage@jordantax.com.

Spring 2016

District Judge Ron Arnoni 412-835-1661 Information from Facts for Citizens published by the League of Women Voters – 412-261-4284 www.palwv.org

VOTER REGISTRATION 412-350-4500

Registration closes March 28, 2016 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Recreation and Leisure Services

www.twpusc.org

Bounty at Boyce Recap Last November, the Township of Upper St. Clair and The Outdoor Classroom hosted its annual Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest. Festival attendees were treated to a variety of activities including fall crafts, face painting, a petting zoo, cookie decorating, apple sling shots, Native American educator Ghost in the Head, pumpkin bowling, cider tasting, and the Plunge with the Pumpkins. The beautiful weather also made for a great day to sit at the outdoor tent and listen to musical performances by local artists. The treats didn’t stop there, though. Event goers had a wide range of food vendors and trucks available throughout the day. Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest is a free event for all individuals living in Upper St. Clair and surrounding communities. Join us this coming fall, on Saturday, November 5.

412-221-1099

Congratulations to the 2015 Bounty Baking Contest Winners! Youth Division (through age ten) • First place: Sydney Fisher for Pumpkin Whoopee Pies • Second place: Gabrielle Fishell for Indian Corn • Third place: Jillian Fishell for Scarecrow Junior Division (age 11–17) • First place: Kendall Busch for Cake • Second place: Madison Fisher for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes • Third place: Alexandra Fishell and Victoria Seminov for Thanksgiving Turkey Adult Division (Age 18 and up) • First place: Cynthia Massagli-Feeney for Fall Cookies • Second place: Abby Pagliai for Spice Cake • Third place: Donna Pembrooke for Pumpkin Roll Thank you to baking contest judges Jessica Gombar, Morgan Pahler, and Sandy Mullen. See Bounty at Boyce photo collage and list of patrons on page 52.

Coming Soon Spring/Summer Recreation Guide Keep an eye out for the USC Recreation Spring/Summer Program Guide published and mailed at the end of March. You can also check out the digital guide on the C&RC’s webpage at www.twpusc.org/crc/crc-home. Spring programs start in April.

Four Great Events Are Coming Up! MLB Pitch Hit & Run is scheduled The annual Egg Hunt, sponsored by for Sunday, April 24, 1 p.m., with a rain USCHS’s Interact Club and the Bethel-St. Clair out date on Sunday, May 1, 1 p.m. The evening Rotary, is scheduled for Saturday, USC Recreation Department will host March 12 at the Township’s Municipal golf this competition at Boyce Mayview Park, course, with a rain/snow date for March 19. and participants will test their skills in Check the Township website for more details three categories: and get “egg-cited” for the adventure! • Pitch: Try to throw strikes like Major League pitchers by taking a shot at hitting the MLB Strike Zone. • Hit: Swing away from home plate! Just like big leaguers, you’ll be judged on distance and accuracy. • Run: Start at second base, head for third, and then sprint home to test your speed at running the bases. Arts & Chocolate This is a free event for boys and girls ages 7–14 (four competitive age Spectacular is set for groups: 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14. Age is determined as of July 17, 2016). WinSaturday, April 9. ners advance to the sectional championship on Sunday, May 15, 1 p.m. at Join in for a day Boyce Mayview Park. filled with art, perFor more information, contact Chaz formances, and lots McCrommon at 412-221-1099, extension 603. of sweet treats! Walk through the art galUpper St. Clair Community Day is right around the corner on Saturday, lery, create some May 21. Complete information will be available in the summer 2016 issue of artwork of your own to take home, and taste TODAY. Set the day aside to have some community fun, but for now, register and purchase some delicious chocolate treats for the Run/Walk for Fun 5K (see form on page 51) and get your child’s crefrom local vendors. The Arts & Chocolate ative juices flowing for the Kids bake-off; pre-registration required (see details Spectacular is appropriate for all ages, and on page 51). open to all USC and surrounding community residents. Event admission is free. 50

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Spring 2016

Older Adults

Seniors at Leisure Adult Pickleball Tournament Recap Mid-December brought the first annual adult pickleball tournament to the C&RC. While in the midst of the holiday season, it was a successful event. Third Shot, the team of Ed Urian and Lauren Heilman, went undaunted on their way to winning the championship in the mixed doubles division. Pick Two, the team of Sally Sherfinski and Lauren Heilman, pulled out the championship in the women’s doubles division. Congratulations to the winners and kudos to all who entered the tournament.

Older Adult Day Trips A Day with Shakespeare and the Arts In November, the group traveled to Greensburg to enjoy a fun outing. The first stop was to the Seton Hill Performing Arts Center for a performance of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Then it was off to lunch at the Greensburg Country Club, followed by a guided tour and dessert at the newly remodeled Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Holidays in the ’Burgh Late December, the group traveled downtown for some holiday fun. There was much going on in Pittsburgh’s Market Square, with all the vendors, entertainment, and festivities. Then it was off to the Wintergarden at PPG Place for the lovely gingerbread displays, the train exhibit, and a performance by the Harrison Middle School band. The trip concluded with a grand lunch at the historical Grand Concourse restaurant.

The enthusiastic pickleballers enjoyed the tournament.

Resources for Seniors

Gold Card

Offered by the USC School District to residents age 62 and older. Card admits holder to School District drama and musical performances, athletic events, and other events free of charge. Applications taken at School District reception desk at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.

Silver Card

Offered by USC Township to residents age 62 or older. Card admits holder to the Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, specified Community & Recreation Center programs, and other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Applications are available at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park.

For more information on any Older Adult programming, contact Chaz McCrommon, assistant Community Programs coordinator, at 412-221-1099, extension 603, or mccrommon@twpusc.org.

ids!! K ual USC B

USC Community Day Run/Walk For Fun Registration

n th An 3 1

Name_____________________________________________ Age as of May 21, 2016_____________

ACCESS 65 PLUS is a shared-ride transportation service program for senior citizens age 65 and older. Contact Chaz McCrommon, assistant community programs coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603, for information about this program and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen identification card for the Port Authority Transit (PAT) system.

Sex____________

ake-O ff

Address___________________________________________

COMMUNITY DAY – May 21st, 2016

Preferred Contact Number___________________________

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services

Email_____________________________________________

Show your culinary creativity! Prizes awarded to 3 winners in each of the following categories plus a grand prize of $100!

T-shirt sizes: Child Adult

Sponsored by

qM qL q S q M q L q XL

$12—Registration and T-shirt, $5—Registration only

Most Patriotic Most Original Favorite TV Show, Movie or Book

Make checks payable to:

Upper St. Clair Community Day Return this form by May 2, 2016 to: C&RC at Boyce Mayview Park 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Entries will be judged on appearance, not taste, but must be edible. Pre-registration required. For more info or to register call:

CONSENT RELEASE FORM: I agree to hold the Township of Upper St. Clair, the Community Day committee and volunteers, and/or any employees thereof harmless and blameless for any accident or injury which may occur while participating in the Run/Walk for Fun.

Leigh Harkreader - 412.401.6389 Anita Crago - 412.721.4800

_________________________________ _______ Signature

(Parent/Guardian if Under 18 Years of Age)

Date

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker© is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Boxed Benefits at the C&RC Heather Holtschlag

You see two fighters in a ring, throwing punches left and right, with the hope of knocking the other fighter out and earning the win. At the core of it all, however, is an achievement that continues outside the ring—the health benefits of boxing. “There are so many benefits of boxing,” said Sharon Schwarzmiller, a mixed martial arts conditioning certified instructor and kickboxing instructor at the C&RC. “Not only is boxing a cardio workout, it also boosts strength, balance, and agility. In addition, boxing is tremendous for your abdominals. Participants often do not realize how proper technique incorporates the use of the core at all times. And, boxing has HIIT (high intensity interval training) elements to it since we can combine high intensity portions of the workout with active rest periods.” Although Schwarzmiller’s classes are not actually conducted in a ring and students do not wear protective padding or headgear or hit each other, she does teach the class basic fundamentals of boxing and how to hit and kick correctly. Students do wear gloves or wraps and hit and kick pads held by partners. “My class is not a kickboxing class where one kicks and hits in the

air to the beat,” she explained. “We do one- to four-minute drills of punching and kicking pads held by a partner to get our heart rates up high, and often push a particular muscle group. Additionally, we incorporate body weight exercises and cross training drills into Joe Lackner (left) learns boxing techniques from Ian Keith the punching and kicking sets.” Her workout, called The Good Fight, is not for expert boxers, but instead, is designed to leave students feeling strong, empowered, and energized by the end of class. “It is a wonderful stress reliever and a very fun workout. Because the workouts in my class are 60 to 70% partner-based, it has a social element, too.” The Good Fight classes, which take place from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. on Tuesdays, are designed as conditioning classes that use boxing and kicking drills. Each class consists of a ten- to 15-minute high intensity warm up followed by ten minutes of circuits with the bosu ball, kettlebells, weighted bars, or the participant’s own body

Bounty at Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest

Photos by Terry Kish

Thank you to Bounty’s generous patrons! Achieva, Atria’s Restaurant & Tavern, Bedner’s Farm & Greenhouse, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, Creative Rhythm, Dupree’s Garden Center & Florist, The Fresh Market, Giant Eagle Market District & Market District Express, Heisler’s Market, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair, Janoski’s Farm and Greenhouse, Jim Jenkins Lawn & Garden Center, King Arthur Flour, The Pie Place, Reilly’s Summer Seat Farm, Sherwood Nursery & Greenhouse, Shop N Save, Simmons Farm, South Hills KIA, Trax Farms, USA Pan, Waste Management 52

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Spring 2016

weight. From there, the class spends about 40 minutes boxing and kicking with other body weight exercises, including bear crawls, sprawls, pushups, jump ropes, or jump squats mixed into the sets. Finally, the class ends with five to ten minutes of abdominal work and a cool down. “I have been hooked on this class ever since it started in September 2014,” said Kelly Borra, class participant. “The punching and kicking aspects are so unique, which is the main appeal of the class. I really exert a lot of power and energy when I kick and punch the pads. It’s really quite empowering to kick something as hard as you can!” Ian Keith, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, teaches classes from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays, as well as private and semi-private boxing classes at the C&RC and said that his sessions usually consist of a jump rope warm up followed by a conditioning workout of footwork and shadowboxing that attempts to mimic the metabolic demand of an actual boxing match. “As a kid, I idolized Muhammad Ali, but it wasn’t until I was 19 that I actually gave the sport (of boxing) a shot,” said Keith, who began boxing when he joined a mixed martial arts gym in college and has been boxing ever since. “Of all the different combat sports they offered, boxing stuck out for me. After that experience, I began boxing for Penn State on their competitive team. I liked the idea

that boxing isn’t a team sport and is based solely on the individual.” Joe Lackner, son of Cari Lackner who is the group exercise class coordinator at the C&RC, has been taking private classes with Keith for a little less than a year and has already experienced the benefits of boxing. “Boxing has enhanced his overall athletic ability,” Cari said. “His defense skills for basketball have improved dramatically due to the footwork exercises he does during his boxing sessions.” Schwarzmiller explained that since most people are not preparing to be professional or even amateur fighters, incorporating a boxing workout into someone’s overall regimen is likely sufficient and is exactly how she started. “Boxing workouts incorporated into a person’s running, yoga, and weight routines throughout the week can be that added variation one needs to keep their exercise regimen fresh and interesting.” According to Keith, the first thing a beginner should know is that it is a very tough and sometimes frustrating sport. “It’s not easy, and you can never be good enough. You will basically be climbing a ladder where you will never reach the top. The sooner that is accepted, the quicker you will make progress.” n

For more information about the boxing classes at the C&RC, call 412-221-1099 or attend a class.

My Routine Was Suddenly Interrupted Diane Morris

It was a cold Saturday morning on January 3, 2015. I got behind the wheel of my car and felt safe as I drove up our steep driveway without sliding. I was OK to maneuver the roads. All good, I thought! I headed for USC’s Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) without incident. When I arrived at 6:30 a.m., Dave, the head lifeguard, was in the parking lot waving his arms at me. He shouted that the pavement was icy. So very carefully together, we made our way to the facility’s front doors. Once inside, I found out from Carol at the front desk that my water boot camp had been cancelled because the instructor was not able to navigate the icy roads. Abby, the second lifeguard, was there so the pool was open. Attendees Laurie, Jen, and I made our own boot camp class and afterwards I swam my laps in the pool and walked my four miles around the track. I then headed for the Total Body Sculpt class. It, too, was cancelled, so I decided to head home and fix my husband, George, an earlier than usual Saturday morning breakfast. I felt confident about the condition of the roads when I saw the USC Township trucks dropping salt on the roads and parking lot while I looked out the window as I walked the inside track. As I made my way out of the building, I knew, as a precaution, to be careful when making my way to my car. Blank! The next thing I knew I was in Mercy Hospital suffering from a TBI (traumatic brain injury) consisting of a fractured skull and a brain bleed after falling on black ice. I spent 16 days in the hospital—four days in intensive care, followed by 12 days on the brain trauma rehab floor in a neck brace. George and our daughter, Karen, visited daily to be my advocates. Because of good care and therapy, I returned to my old self faster than expected. Unfortunately, my streak of walking four miles a day for 33 years was interrupted with the injury. At my release from Mercy, my doctors did not restrict how far I could walk. However, they did put a limit on my weight lifting. During the next few weeks, I walked diligently on the inside track at the C&RC, my neck brace on. One troublesome symptom—dizziness—occurred whenever I changed

levels from up to down or down to up. After only two sessions at the UPMC physical therapy facility in Bethel Park, my physical Diane enjoys a horse ride while in Iceland. therapist, Claire, released me to workout on my own. Although my dizziness persisted, Claire was confident that once my neck brace was removed she would be able to correct the problem by getting my ear crystals back in place. Five weeks after my injury, I was scheduled for a checkup with my neurosurgeon at Mercy Hospital. I was very happy when he told me that I could remove my neck brace and resume driving. I immediately called Claire for an appointment and she was successful in returning my ear crystals to their proper place with one visit. Dizziness solved! My doctors said that my fast recovery was attributable to my positive attitude and good physical condition. They were right! Why am I telling you about my ordeal? I want to encourage you to work on your own physical health. The place I choose to workout is at the C&RC. It’s a wonderful place to see many old friends and meet new ones. During my recovery, these friends sent prayers, positive thoughts, and lots of food, and even helped to keep our driveway cleared. The C&RC offers classes for all types and for all levels of ability. What’s better than a trip to the hot tub to relax after an invigorating workout? Great machines and free weights help to build strong muscles and bones. The indoor track is a great place to walk during inclement weather. This past May, I was ready to travel with George on a vacation to Iceland. The lava landscape made me feel like I was walking on the moon. I rode a bike, rode a horse, and went caving. As we look forward to the season of spring and warmer weather without black ice, I realize that there still may be days of wintery weather and icy conditions in store for us. I hope that I do not experience another interruption of my morning walks. But if I do, I plan on being in the best physical shape possible so that my recovery is as fast as it can be. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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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. • 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 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 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.

Change Your Behavior to Improve Your Water

David Kutschbach, USC Township Superintendent of Projects The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its state equivalent, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), have mandated that the Township create a Public Education and Outreach Program (PEOP). The PEOP is one of the six minimum control measures (MCMs) required under the Township’s MS4 permit. The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Program (MS4) is defined as a conveyance system used to collect or convey storm water into waters of the Commonwealth using storm sewer pipes, storm drains, inlets, swales, channels, or un-named tributaries. Although much progress has been made to improve water quality since 1972 when the Clean Water Act was passed, polluted run-off is the source of most of the contamination in the nation’s waters today. Pollutants are gathered by rain and snow melt and are washed over lawns, driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots and carried into inlets on the street, which in turn flow to waters of the Commonwealth. Run-off from suburban areas is most likely to contain:

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• 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. 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 a seven out of ten, which provides for a 15% 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 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 undertaken to protect our streams and waterways from hazardous discharge. Be sure to check the Township’s 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. 1. Oil, antifreeze, and automotive fluids 2. Fertilizer and pesticides 3. Bacteria and organic matter 4. Sediment from construction sites Most people do not realize that many of the things they do every day, in and around their homes, may contribute to polluted run-off. Certain individual behaviors need to be changed through education, knowledge, and understanding. After all, polluted run-off eventually becomes drinking water. Tips for pollution-preventing behaviors: • Check cars and lawnmowers for fluid leaks • Properly clean up and dispose of spilled oil, mechanical fluids, and solvents • Wash paint brushes indoors • Get a soil test to determine what fertilizer, if any, is needed and then limit the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides • Properly store and dispose of fertilizers and pesticides • Regularly remove and properly dispose of pet waste from yards • When walking your pet, do not discard pet waste in storm inlets • Building permits require sediment control measures, including a silt fence and inlet sacks

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Spring 2016

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Spring 2016

Recycling Efforts in the Township Ron Sarrick, Building/Grounds & Sustainability Administrator

Reuse, recycle, repurpose when you can! We only have one earth! Document Destruction takes place on the following two Saturdays, May 14 and October 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Municipal building parking lot. The price of a bankers box, or its equivalent, is $5. Larger bankers box is $8. Sensitive documents are shredded on site. This will be the first year to have hard drive destruction on site, and the cost will be $10 per drive. The drive must be removed from the computer. Call 2 Recycle program (rechargeable batteries only!) has collected and recycled more than 130 pounds of spent rechargeable batteries this past year. To date, more than 400 pounds of old rechargeable batteries have been recycled since the program’s inception. There is no cost for this. The drop-off point is in the Township Library lobby. No individual rechargeable battery heavier than nine pounds can be accepted. E-Cycling will continue on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Municipal building parking lot, excepting the month of February. There is a limit of one TV per car. Bring all your electric or battery-operated items to be recycled. There is a small fee for Freon removal in refrigerators or dehumidifiers. Collection this past year was a wonderful 132,733 tons of e-cycling products that never made it to a landfill! Township Internal E-cycling has once again made a difference within the Township offices and ancillary areas, including the C&RC. More than 500 expired bulbs—fluorescent, compact fluorescent lamps, high pressure sodium, and metal halide lamps—have been recycled. Additionally, there were 95 pounds of mixed ballasts and 82 pounds of alkaline batteries that were recycled. The Township also recycles hundreds of gallons of used oil from vehicles, as well as hundreds of pounds of expired paper documents each year. n

Sustainability Update

Ron Sarrick, Building/Grounds & Sustainability Administrator Resident Curbside Automated Recycling USC Township has experienced momentum centered on sustainable living. How so? Residents have embraced the automated recycling program through marked increased participation. Since the onset of the program to current date, there has been a 14% increase in recyclables from last year. Recycled cardboard materials might be a large part of the reason. Previously, much of this material was required to be torn, cut, or folded into 14"x14" sections prior to discarding, a task which many residents were unable to perform. Now, with the larger cart, loading cardboard is much simpler. Just break it down so that it fits into the cart! The increased size of the recently issued 64-gallon carts has also contributed to the increased tonnage, and several residents have remarked how easy the carts are to wheel to the curb. Some families have ordered the larger 96-gallon cart, a big success for those who consistently have additional recyclable materials. The Township is hopeful that the increased recyclable volume continues. As you may know, USC is rewarded for its tonnage in the form of funds returned to the Township’s coffers from the state. Increased recycling equals increased money returned to USC to help offset programs, a win-win for all!

T PERFORMANCE EXCEEDS PROMISES!

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Green Workplace Challenge Upper St. Clair Township once again participated in Sustainable Pittsburgh’s Green Workplace Challenge and achieved runner-up position in the “small municipal” category. Eighty-seven entities, including those from business, government, and education, participated in the challenge. The goal of Sustainable Pittsburgh, the program’s originator, is to generate competitive enthusiasm from the applicants to reduce their collective carbon footprint. This can result through activities, policies, and programs that promote an efficient use of resources. For instance, the challenge promoted the use of the Green Workplace Challenge award given to USC Energy Portfolio Manager as a means of tracking gas, electric, and water usage. The goal was to create a baseline for measurement, and then work to improve efficient use of all utilities. There was a host of actions that participants could select from to achieve points, and there were several workshops that provided information and initiated enthusiasm within the groups. A friendly competition, the challenge program presented a better solution towards a better quality of living for tomorrow and into the future. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

T From the Director’s Desk: Have Some 3D Fun @ the Library Helen Palascak, Library Director

Libraries have always been at the forefront of emerging technologies, providing access to the tools needed for creative expression and the dissemination of information. Historically, libraries have provided typewriters for patrons to use, installed photocopying machines, and stored microfiche copies of newspapers along with their screen readers. And ever since the first Internet-connected computers were installed, libraries have assumed a leading role in helping people of all ages build the digital skills needed to thrive in a high-tech world. Now the library’s 3D printer, a recent addition to our patron services, is expanding the digital offerings in another way. 3D printing empowers people to engage in creative learning, inspiring their interest in design and problem solving. Many in the industry are predicting that in ten years, 3D printers will be as common as desktop printers are today, triggering as big a cultural shift in our daily lives as the Internet (and online shopping) have. 3D printing is also fundamentally Helen Palascak part of a larger trend in libraries, from having materials for everyone to helping everyone be able to do something. What is 3D printing? 3D printers let you print any three-dimensional (3D) object you can imagine such as jewelry, home appliance parts, toys, or phone accessories. Basically, it is the process of making a physical object from a digital model. Filament (usually plastic) is fed through a heated nozzle where it is melted and then deposited by computer controlled motors that move the nozzle around to create the shape of a layer which hardens immediately. Multiple layers are deposited to create the object. It might take a few hours to make a small object. Artist Thomas Gokey offers a compelling insight into this radical, but tangible, shift in a ten-minute video available on YouTube: “Public Libraries, 3D Printing, FabLabs and Hackerspaces.” “What we’re talking about here is the democratization of the means of production,” Gokey enthuses. Creating a space for 3D printing in the library “where people gather to share their knowledge and help each other” aligns naturally with the deep history of public libraries as engines of democracy and centers of discovery (from http://www.webjunction.org/news/webjunction/3D_Printer_Revolution.html). The library’s role in providing access to this technology does not end with merely placing the printer in the building. The library staff is offering introductory orientation sessions and more intensive classes to help patrons build their own 3D printer competencies. You may be able to solve a simple household problem, like printing a replacement part otherwise unavailable. Create a prototype of a new idea for a product or a model of something for a presentation. Personalize favors for a party. The possibilities are only limited by the size of our print bed! What will you make?

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❑ Yes, call me for volunteer opportunities. 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 www.twpusc.org 58

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Spring 2016

T Music in the Stacks

The Aeolian Winds got everyone in the holiday spirit this past December.

Spring Programs Gretchen McKay Talks Food Monday, March 21, 7 p.m. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette staff writer Gretchen McKay has been writing for the paper’s food section for almost a decade. In this talk, she’ll give a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to get a good recipe in the paper and how the food pages come together each week.

Aeolian Winds performance at the library

Select Reads: A Virtual Resource for Inquiring Minds Do you want to: • Know what are the newest titles added to the catalog in the past week? • Look up the books that have won awards? • Learn more about an author and his books? • Choose a subject and get some book recommendations? • See if that new movie is circulating yet? Select Reads can do this and more!

Look for this link on the library’s home page. The tabs across the top of the Select Reads landing page link to the different services offered. • Monthly Newsletters (by age group or topic of your choice) • Kids Book Lists (suggested titles by topics and series and sequels lists) • My Select Reads (you select the specific set of topics you want) • Awards Lists (every one of them!) • New Titles (the latest additions to the catalog, by format, age group, or topic) • Author Spotlight (read a biography, see his or her works) You can browse lists and follow the link back to check the catalog and title availability. You can sign up to receive monthly newsletters on the newest additions by format or topics of your choice. It’s a virtual library experience that’s easy and fun. Try it out yourself!

Photo and Memorabilia Organizing with Jill Yesko Monday, March 28, 7 p.m. Have you ever asked yourself, “Where is that picture?” Somewhere on your phone, camera, or iPad? Pasted in an album? Filed in a shoebox? Tossed in a drawer? Jill Yesko, certified proJill Yesko fessional organizer, will describe how to organize printed and digital photos so they can be easily accessed, enjoyed, and shared time and time again. The best tools for collecting, organizing, sharing, and preserving photos, documents, videos, and other memorabilia will be discussed. Learn how to take better care of your valued treasures. The Battle Against ISIS—an Update with George Savarese Monday, April 4, 7 p.m. George Savarese, radio journalist, Mt. Lebanon High School social studies teacher, and former teacher at the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for International Studies, as well as the former educational director of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, will present an overview of the origins of ISIS, U.S. policy decisions under the Bush and Obama administrations, and his perspective on the current status of ISIS and the threat it poses to both the Middle East and to our own security in the United States. Bring your questions.

Enjoy library programs? Want the latest library news? Sign up now to join the library’s email list and get the latest news about upcoming library events and programs. It’s easy! Just click on the link at the bottom of the library homepage from the Township website (www.twpusc.org) to fill out a simple form or cut out this one. You can also stop by any library desk and a staff member will help to sign you up.

Sit, Stay, Heel: Tips and Tricks for Training Your New (or Old) Puppy with Storm Foreman Tuesday, April 12, 7 p.m. Storm Foreman will highlight the challenges you might experience when welcoming a new puppy or rescue dog into your home, plus the steps you can take to help smooth the transition for you and your pet. Storm is the owner of a German Storm Foreman Shepherd, has worked as a volunteer coordinator for Animal Friends, and currently teaches obedience classes at Xcel Canine Training Center. Spring Tea with Author Mary Jo Sonntag Thursday, April 21, 1–3 pm. $2 registration fee. Mary Jo Sonntag uncovered a treasure trove of family letters and photographs and has crafted an eloquent chronicle of over 100 years of family history in her book Write, If You Live to Get There, a 2015 Gold Medal Independent Publishers Book Award winner. Her ancestors’ letters, written from 1842 through 1963, provide an intimate glimpse into life in America as the westward expansion was underway. She will share her personal journey of developing the book and seeing it to publication. Copies of this award-winning book will be available for purchase after the presentation, or you can check out a library copy to read for yourself. A light lunch will be served. Bring your tea cup! It’s All in the Pot— Containers by Design Thursday, April 28, 7 p.m. No space? Plant up a pot! Penn State Master Gardener Susan Marquesen will share with you how to select the perfect plants for your containers—plants that will complement your container as well as provide interesting textural and color variations. Techniques for maintaining healthy plants throughout the season will be discussed. Even if you only have a patio or balcony, you can enjoy gardening!

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❑ Adult Mailing List ❑ Kids Mailing List Spring 2016

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T Kids & Teens Dear Librarian, to bring him to y active. We would love Our 14-month old is ver en should we Wh e how he would behave. the library, but I’m not sur start using the library? New Parent Dear New Parent, children of all lcoming environment for The library offers a safe, we ngest visiyou s ’ ary understands that the libr ages. The children’s staff rn area Lea to y sometimes noisy. The Pla tors are active, curious, and your and you t for babies and toddlers tha dler features educational toys tod rdy stu of You’ll also find a collection ’ll child can enjoy together. you ws, gro ld chi r t for baby’s hands. As you rt books that are just perfec sta you ner soo e tion of picture books. Th p elo want to explore the collec dev to be l wil child, the more likely he sharing books with your an interest in books. program filled program is a fast-paced The Babies and Toddlers igned to hold des ctive play, and movement with rhymes, songs, intera y, your child ivit act children. While it’s a fun the attention of very young ll as how to we as ge and pre-reading skills will also be learning langua behave in a group setting. e you’ll visit ff is here to help you. I hop Remember, the library sta the library soon! Sincerely, Librarian r You nn, Deb Co

Explore to Learn at the Library

Thanks to funding from the Friends of the Library and a private donor, the Explore to Learn area now has new red, white, and blue tables and a magnetic notice wall. This space is designed for families with school-age kids. You’ll find an assortment of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) kits and equipment. Here are some of the items you can explore: • Programmable Robot • Microscope and Slides • Animal and Human X-Rays • Magnets • Shells • Build with K’nex and Goldie Blox • Build Circuits with LittleBits • Insects and Butterflies Why don’t you and your child spend some time learning through playing in the library’s Explore to Learn space? n

Upcoming Classes

The library offers a wide variety of classes for children of all ages. The popular storytime sessions begin Monday, March 28 and run through Friday, April 29. This five-week series offers children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers many opportunities to visit the library, hear stories, and have a good time. Registration for spring classes begins Wednesday, March 16 in person at the library. A complete list and all program information can be found at the library or on the library’s website at www.twpusc.org/library/kids. Family Storytime Children 2 to 7 years of age with a caregiver Thursdays, 7 p.m. March 17 and May 19 Babies & Toddlers Children ages 4 to 24 months with a caregiver Mondays, 10 a.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Twos & Threes Children 2 to 3 ½ years of age with a caregiver Tuesdays, 11 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

USC Township Library Hours 412-835-5540 www.twpusc.org 60

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Pre-School Storytime Children 3 ½, 4, or 5 years of age who are ready to spend a half hour on their own Thursdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. Math Mites Children 4 and 5 years of age who are not yet attending kindergarten Wednesdays, 1:15 or 2:15 p.m. Library Explorers: Explore the Earth and Sky Children who are currently in kindergarten Tuesdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. BookTrek: Fairy Tale Engineering Children in grades 1–4 Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 4 p.m.

Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, 1–5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24/7 Library closed Sunday, March 27 (Easter) Spring 2016

Explore to Learn table

Save the Dates

Art in the Park will be held on Friday, June 3, 10 a.m.–noon, in the Municipal playground near the library. Dress for a mess and keep your fingers crossed for pleasant weather! Registration begins Monday, May 23. The library’s annual Summer Reading Program and Teen Read Program will begin Monday, June 13 and run through Thursday, July 28. Registration for these summer programs, as well as classes and events for kids of all ages, begins Wednesday, June 1.

Crafting Fun at the Library

Come to the library on the weekends and experience great activities for kids. The library will offer a variety of craft weekends to celebrate the spring holidays. As always, consult the library website or visit in person for complete program information. Spring Crafts Wednesday, March 16–Saturday, March 26 Mother’s Day Monday, May 2–Saturday, May 7

T A Little Dirt Won’t Hu rt

Jessica Kester, Program Manager, The Outdoor Classroom How many of you remember playing outdoors and coming home covered head to toe in dirt, grass stains, mud, and a myriad of other stains? There were days when I was so muddy, my mother threated to hose me off in the front yard before letting me in the house! Now, how many of you can remember the last time a child you know has come home that dirty? Sure, there might be some grass stains from soccer or some ground in dirt from sliding into home plate, but are children really coming home a little dirty from playing in nature anymore? Fae, exploring Richard Louv recounts similar tales in his book Last Child in the Woods, and sadly he notes the same lack of dirtiness in today’s children. There are many times when I have been teaching a program in the Boyce Mayview Park only to hear, “Eww, I can’t sit on the ground; I’ll get my pants dirty.” or “There’s mud on my shoes. I’m going to get in trouble.” There are times for cleanliness, and more than once I was in trouble as a child for playing in the dirt in my nice, clean “going out” clothes. But for the most part, we were encouraged to get out of the house and play on our own. We made forts in the forest, dug ditches in the shale driveway (much to my father’s dismay), and collected various plants and natural bits to mix March in our mud pies. Now that my little one, Fae, is mobile and 12 Nature Explorers Owl Eyes Hike @ Peters Lake Park able to explore the world on her own, I’m eager 16 Project WET Facilitator Training @ The Inn at Pocono to allow her to explore. She’s only one, but has Manor eaten a piece of grass (or two), some leaves, and 18 Food Scientific: Herbs & Their Uses Salsa @ PTCRC has gnawed on a stick. She’s crawled through the 19 Twinkles at Twilight meadow and gotten grass stains on her clothes, 20 Talk N Walk: Hiking the Trails of Boyce Mayview Park and she loves playing in puddles. As an envi23 Moonstruck ronmental educator, I encourage my students to 25 Food Scientific: Lollipop Lab @ PTCRC explore without worrying about getting dirty. In 26 Mulch Madness Volunteer Day fact, the dirtier they get the better time I believe 26 Nature Explorers: Animal Tracking Hike @ Peters Lake they’re having, and I know that some serious Park self-lead exploration is taking place. 30 Project WET Educator Workshop @ Brandywine Red Today, teachers are focusing on STEM (sciCampers exploring the Clay Alliance ence, technology, engineering, and math) in the creek bed April classroom. When parents allow their children to 1 Food Scientific: Home Sweet Honey @ PTCRC explore outdoors on their own, children use their imagination and instincts 8 Hummingbirds at Home to explore to build bridges and dams, forts and teepees. They use problem solving and engineering to move rocks and logs. They engage in science 8 Food Scientific: Pizza Party To Go @ PTCRC as they try and fail at accomplishing their new found task of catching the 9 Volunteer Mailing firefly without squishing it or determining how many fireflies are needed 9 Nature Explorers: Feathered Friends Spring Birding to light up a jar. These are all self-directed STEM activities. 101 @ PTCRC I’ve heard many arguments and concerns about leaving children outside 10 Cub Scout Adventure Day: Into the Wild alone and I acknowledge that I lived in the country in an area where most 15 Food Scientific: The Big Squeeze @ PTCRC every house was a relative, so I could move about in a rather large area and 16 Trash to Treasures CITO Stewardship Day still be safe. But you don’t need to have a large farm field to explore, nor do 17 Talk N Walk: Sustainable Suburbs parents need to leave children completely unattended. Watching children 22 Food Scientific: Sun Snacks @ PTCRC play in the backyard from the kitchen window is perfectly fine. And if you 22 Moonstruck don’t have backyard green space, just being outside in the environment 23 Nature Explorers: Early Spring Flowers @ PTCRC with free time to explore is really the only thing you need. 24 Girl Scout Outdoors Adventure For those who don’t feel comfortable with nature enough to allow your children or grandchildren to explore outdoors, we can help! Join The May Outdoor Classroom for any of 6 Project Nest Watch the family-friendly programs 7 Mom & Me Geocaching 101 or even send the child in your 14 Migratory Bird Count life to one of the Classroom’s 14 Saturdays Outdoors Hike: Wildflowers summer camps. Just remember, 14 Bird Study Merit Badge Workshop clothes can always be washed 15 Talk N Walk: Chickens in the Suburbs and a little dirt won’t hurt, but 21 Moonstruck the memories and skills that PTCRC: Peters Township Community Recreation Center outdoor play brings will last a Girl Scouts creek cleanup lifetime. n Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Heroes of the Fire Service Daniel Barr, President USC VFD

As I sat down to think of a subject to write about for this issue of TODAY, I was reminded of how proud I am to belong to a brotherhood of firefighters. This past January, seven firefighters from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire were recognized for their heroic act of saving an 86-year-old mother/ grandmother from the second floor of her burning home. You could see the pride that Chief Jones of the Pittsburgh Fire Bureau had when he spoke about the efforts of his firefighters. The firefighters themselves were humbled by the attention and said that it was a group effort, which is the case in most rescues. USC VFD firefighters practicing a window drop It takes a lot of firefighters to pull off a rescue. If not for a crew throwing ladders outside while the inside crews were searching, the rescuers would not have been able to get the victim to safety before the second floor flashed over. If it were not for the hydrant man being proficient in hooking up to the hydrant and getting water to the engine, and if not for the engine operator getting water to the nozzle man, and if not for the nozzle man getting water on the fire… well, you get the idea. These seven firefighters were injured as a result of their heroic acts. Listening to the account of the rescue, you hear them talk about the zero visibility inside the structure and how the coughing of the victim enabled them to locate her. As they were removing the victim from the second floor, a flashover occurred. A flashover happens when the atmosphere in the structure reaches the temperature point (usually over 900 degrees) where the super-heated gases and combustibles ignite all at once. Bailing out of windows was the only option these firefighters had to save their lives. Seconds are all you have to survive a flashover. During drills we practice window hangs, so instead of dropping ten feet, you hang on to the sill and dangle, and drop maybe three or four feet instead, a much more survivable fall. If time permits, our SCBA (self contained breathing apparatus) packs are equipped with a rapid deployment bail out kit made of Kevlar strand rope and a descending device so we can hook onto any large object and lower ourselves down slowly. This method cannot be used with flashovers. Our members realize the importance of knowing where their equipment is at all times, what it is used for, and being proficient in its use. We continually learn and strive to become competent in all aspects of fire ground operations. This past December, a small group of dedicated firefighters took the initiative to build some training props that can be used anytime a group of firefighters wants to practice. These props will help our firefighters maintain proficiency in using a metal cut off saw and in packing and deploying our hose loads. The advantage of using a prop is that our apparatus is still available for service while training is taking place. Our largest prop is our SCBA maze, located upstairs at our main fire station on Route 19. Members can partner up anytime they are at the station, put on a SCBA, and go through the 17 stations of the maze at their own pace. Proficiency in using a SCBA might help save our firefighters’ lives if they are in a situation similar to that of our brothers in the fire bureau. As firefighters, we realize that we can be sleeping in our beds at 3 a.m. and then bailing out of a second or third floor window at 3:15 a.m. in order to save our lives and the lives of others. We train so that we can be proficient at all hours of the day and night when helping our Firefighters’ training maze neighbors in need. n

Special Needs Registry

In 2012, an estimated 159,027 people with a disability lived in Allegheny County. In order to better serve these residents, the Department of Emergency Services developed a Special Needs Registry, which allows for the collection of voluntary information that would be helpful for emergency responders to know in an emergency. Those registering can include individuals with Autism, those who are deaf and/or blind, and those who have intellectual 62

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disabilities, as well as individuals who have physical challenges that keep them from leaving their home quickly if they had to do so. The Department has also partnered with the District Attorney’s Office and local police departments, as well as organizations supporting those with special needs, to educate the public about the opportunity to register. n To learn more or to begin the registration process, visit the Emergency Services webpage of Allegheny County’s website or go directly to www.alleghenycounty.us/specialneeds.

T Heart Attack—Warnings Signs and What to Do John D’Angelo, Tri-Community South EMS

Warning Signs A heart attack, or myocardial infarction (MI), occurs when blood flow to the heart is significantly slowed or cut off and, as a result, the heart muscle, or myocardium, begins to die. The causes are usually either coronary artery disease (CAD) or atherosclerosis. Coronary artery disease is the result of the narrowing and/or hardening of the arteries around the heart that supply the oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Atherosclerosis results from a blockage in the arteries, usually caused from the formation of clots. In either case, blood flow to the heart is reduced which, in turn, leads to a reduction of life-sustaining oxygen to the heart muscle. A person undergoing a heart attack or MI will undergo at least one of the following warning signs: • Chest pain or discomfort. Usually considered to be the foremost sign of a heart attack, chest pain almost always begins in the center of the chest and can either be continuous or intermittent. Sometimes the pain increases with physical activity. The pain is usually described as a pressure or a squeezing sensation and is extremely painful. The pain can extend or radiate to one (usually the left) or both arms, as well to as the neck, back, and/or jaw. • Extreme weariness. • Heart palpitations. A heart attack victim may feel his heart beating at an extremely rapid rhythm or may feel the heart skip beats. • Difficult or labored breathing. • Excessive sweating. • Light-headedness or dizziness. • Nausea. Women more than men will experience the jaw and back pain, difficulty breathing, and nausea. As stated above, not all signs and symptoms need to be present in a heart attack. The main sign is chest pain or discomfort. A heart attack diagnosis is primarily made through a combination of two procedures: • An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a record in graph form of the electrical activity of a person’s heart. An EKG can detect heart abnormalities that are caused by heart damage.

Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform this procedure as a pre-hospital diagnosis. • A blood test will detect abnormal levels of certain cardiac enzymes in a person’s bloodstream. This test is usually only performed in a hospital. Use of Aspirin to Prevent a Heart Attack Most heart attacks occur with the rupturing of cholesterolfilled plaque that is located inside a coronary artery. The rupture then attracts blood cells called platelets that induce blood clotting. This clot, called a thrombus, builds up on the plaque until it completely blocks the artery, preventing blood flow to the heart muscle. As a result, the heart muscle cells begin to die and the person begins to feel the classic heart attack symptoms, which include chest pressure and pain, shortness of breath, and heavy sweating, among others. At the first sign of these symptoms, a person must call 911 and get to the hospital as quickly as possible. While waiting for the ambulance, however, it is important for the heart attack victim to take aspirin since aspirin inhibits the growth of platelets, which, in turn, prevents the clot from enlarging. However, there are some steps that should be followed in the use of aspirin for victims of heart attacks. 1. Do not give aspirin to those who are allergic to it or to those who have a condition such as bleeding ulcers in which aspirin is contra-indicated. 2. Use one tablet of 325 mg or four tablets of 81 mg. Avoid using aspirin that is enteric-coated because it will act too slowly. 3. Have the victim chew the aspirin for about 30 seconds, and then swallow without water. Several studies have shown that this method can reduce platelet concentration by 50% in about five minutes. A tablet swallowed whole with water will take more than twice as long to accomplish the same effect. 4. Never give aspirin to a suspected stroke victim. 5. When EMS arrives on the scene, notify them that you have given aspirin to the victim. 6. Never substitute aspirin for a trip to the hospital, and never give aspirin before making a 911 call. Remember that time is of the essence. Delay in getting to a hospital can have significant negative consequences. Members of Tri-Community South EMS want our neighbors to become knowledgeable in order to act responsibly in times of emergency. Together we can save more lives if everyone recognizes the signs of a heart attack and can take the steps necessary to ensure quick and accurate treatment. n For information about Tri-Community South EMS, our community’s emergency medical services provider, call 412-831-3710 or visit www.tcsems.org. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Negotiation Pitfalls

Real Estate Round Up by Emanuel Romanias What is the definition of a fair price? As an example, a buyer is willing to pay more and a seller is willing to accept less. Many view the art of negotiation as a necessary evil. In the realm of real estate, there’s no escaping it. Prior to and throughout the negotiation process there are common mistakes that buyers and sellers both tend to repeat. A 2015 Consumer Reports survey found that, in a typical transaction, the money you stand to gain or lose based on your decisions can be substantial—from 11 to 20% of the home’s value. Here are some common blunders made by buyers and sellers. Buyer • Buying the first house you fall in love with is rarely a great idea. My father told me many, many years ago that “once in a lifetime deals” happen every day. He was right. There are times, especially in highly desirable areas where inventory is tight, when you need to act quickly or risk losing the deal, but in most cases there is no need to rush. • Don’t underestimate total costs. Home buyers, especially first-time buyers, fall into this trap by focusing solely on their monthly mortgage. Closing costs, taxes, utilities, and general maintenance costs should also be considered. • Take care of your credit score. Upgrade your credit score before you begin looking for a new home. A stronger credit score can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in interest and fees. • Shop around for a mortgage. Banks and mortgage companies are in business to make money, so it pays to shop around for the best deal you can get. Your local bank with which you have been doing business for 20 years may not necessarily offer the best mortgage terms and rates. 64

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• A home inspection is vital, unless the home is being sold “as is.” You should never forego a home inspection; it is well worth the cost. Seller • Do not overprice your home. An overpriced home will not only appeal to the wrong target audience, but it can actually turn qualified buyers away. If a property sits on the market for too long, buyers and agents will, rightly or wrongly, start to shy away and wonder if something is wrong with the property. • Do not hire the first agent you meet. Real estate professionals vary greatly, even within the same company. It pays to speak with several agents before choosing your agent and listing your property. • Google search your address. Potential buyers are searching the Internet, so should you! Is there a lien you previously satisfied that is still showing on your record? Are the taxes correct? Make sure all listed information associated with your property is accurate. • Do not list your property before it is ready. Have your house in showroom condition when you put it on the market. Buyers don’t want to walk into your home and see a hole in the ceiling with the explanation “We’re in the process of getting that fixed.” Negotiation is a natural part of the buying and selling process. Avoiding simple mistakes will make the process smoother, more manageable, and more profitable. n

Emanuel Romanias is a Realtor® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty. He can be reached at eromanias@thepreferredrealty.com. See ad on page 83.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

The Aeris Collection From ProVia

These Windows Are BEAUTIFUL … • Select a real wood interior including oak, cherry, and maple options • Option to paint window interior to match any room • From the outside, your windows impress with a fresh, maintenance-free exterior • Cleanly-welded corners and bright finish enhance curb appeal • For a distinctive touch, beautiful inspiration art glass is available And Energy Efficient … • ENERGY STAR Certified • Terrific insulated glass options With Rock-Solid Construction • Fusion-welded sashes and frames • DualTech sweep locks and tilt sashes

Be sure to ask about the Lifetime Warranty. This warranty is clear, in writing, and backed by a top-quality manufacturer.

Visit our showroom to see the latest Aeris products and Receive $100 Off Your Installation

www.ClarkRemodeling.com • 412.833.7222 Our showroom is located at 3180 Industrial Blvd. Bethel Park, PA 15102 PA HIC # 1925 HTPT0515.014

Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Custom Window Treatments Vivian Dibrell, Chase Custom Creations

Custom window treatments. Does that phrase conjure up dread or excitement? If you start the process with a little knowledge, it will make your experience an exciting and positive collaboration. You should love the final result. After all, you will be living with these window treatments for many years to come! The first thing to do is to work with a professional custom window treatment fabricator, commonly called a drapery workroom. Not all furniture salesmen or decorators are well versed in all the nuances that go with window treatments; drapery workrooms are. Often, even an experienced decorator will invite the window treatment workroom person to do the measuring and participate in that portion of the overall design process. There are many sizes of drapery workrooms. The larger ones usually give you a narrower choice of window treatments from which to choose. Most of the smaller workrooms can create any design your heart desires, within reason. They will first determine if your choice is workable from an installation point of view. Experience counts for a lot. There are several things to think about and ask yourself before you contact your workroom. Do you know what style of treatment you are looking for? Describe your home. What is your personal style? Collect photos from magazines and look online at www.houzz.com for some great ideas. Think about your color scheme, patterns, prints, stripes, and trims. Not every fabric is appropriate for every style of treatment. For instance, with the popularity of polyester and rayon, some pleated draperies tend 66

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Spring 2016

to flare out at the bottom and won’t stay neatly “dressed.” Cotton and cotton blends, on the other hand, have memory and tend to be more trainable. Do you need privacy or light control? An experienced window treatment workroom can inform you of these things. They can show you fabrics and trims and help you choose the best fabric for your job. What is your time frame for completion? Don’t wait until the last minute as fabrics, trims, and hardware deliveries sometimes get delayed. Most workrooms won’t begin fabrication until all materials are in house. A good installer will be part of the process and is usually provided by the workroom. Professional installers are worth their weight in gold. They can troubleshoot on site and overcome glitches that tend to come up during installation. They will install your treatments and dress and steam them if necessary. And finally, what is your budget? Custom window treatment prices vary widely depending on the fabric chosen and the complexity of the treatment. Once you have made your decision, normally an upfront down payment of half the estimate is required, with the balance due at installation. It’s exciting to get something new for your home. If you are armed with a little prep and a little knowledge, you’ll go into the experience with more confidence and come out with a higher rate of success and satisfaction. n Reach Vivian Dibrell of Chase Custom Creations at www.chasecustomcreations.com or 412-344-3308. See ad on page 83.

HOME IMPROVEMENT “Scott Bros. comes highly recommended in the Upper St. Clair area.”

SCOTT BROS. Windows and Doors

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Spring Into Action— Improve Your Home and Well Being Lisa Davis

As we get ready to shed our winter coats and embrace the energy and new life that comes with spring, here are some simple, cost-effective ways to make changes to your home and improve your quality of life. Bring the Outdoors In. Fresh flowers and plants, candles, diffusers, and incense are some great ways to awaken the senses, make our homes smell fresh, and elevate our moods. As an added bonus, they will keep your décor feeling seasonally current. Lighten Up. Ever notice how your mood seems to improve when you enter a bright room? Clean those windows and let the sun shine in! Even the most beautiful room can get a boost from a little extra sunshine. Consider removing heavy draperies and replace them with light and breezy sheers or linen curtains. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check your light bulbs. Switching to energy efficient bulbs will cut down on your electric bills and you won’t have to change them as often. Change Your Wardrobe. Make a big impact with some small changes. Switch out your home’s wardrobe to reflect the season by removing heavy throws and pillows and adding brightly colored accents and lighter fabrics throughout your home. Swap out heavy bedding with lighter options. Keep neutral décor looking fresh by adding a pop of color. Using just a touch of the latest color trend will help keep your décor feeling up to date.

Simplify. Remove clutter from surfaces, magnets and pictures from refrigerators, and either discard or organize these items into one area. Consider purchasing a decorative bulletin board for things you must keep. Grab an inexpensive binder to house restaurant take-out menus. Things will look neater and you will feel better without the visual chaos. As a bonus, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for more easily, saving you time and keeping you in a positive mood. n

Lisa Davis is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, and can be reached at lisa.davis@pittsburghmoves.com. See ad on page 21. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

SIMPLIFY Be seen in

’16

Place your ad in our Summer issue’s Home & Garden guide.

Contact a sales representative at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us or call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. 68

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal Improving your home’s curb appeal is important for you, your neighbors, and potential buyers. The exterior of a house leaves a lasting first impression, whether good or bad. Even if you’re not selling, keeping up the lawn, landscaping, and facade is an important part of being a good neighbor. Consider these curb appeal ideas: • Get the right greenery. Your landscaping choices should enhance the house, not hide it. Use landscaping to call out features like a home’s symmetry or to hide trouble spots. Consider choosing fire resistant plants to help prevent the spread of fire to your home. Keep all plants manicured and trimmed. • Restore the front door. A new front door looks impressive, plus it can almost pay for itself in added resale value, according to the 2013-14 “Cost vs. Value Report” from Remodeling magazine. • Update siding and windows. Though expensive, updating siding and windows is one of the best ways to add

Spring 2016

value to a home. Keep the windows clean. And if you’re selling your home, remove the screens for extra shine. • Freshen up the front porch. A front porch is a key selling point. Keep the porch floor and railings in good condition and add comfortable furniture to make the porch more inviting. • Capitalize on character. Maintain or bring your home’s exterior back to its original aesthetic to highlight its features. For example, freshen up siding with period-appropriate paint colors or add a fence. • Consider outdoor lighting. An effective security feature, exterior lights can also give your home a dramatic and attractive look at night. • Fix what’s broken. Repair cracks in sidewalks, the driveway, and masonry. Patching is an affordable alternative to a complete resurfacing job. n Article compliments of State Farm®. See ad for Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent on page 42.

ADVANCED EALTHCARE. QUALITY OUTCOMES.

St. Clair Hospital is a highly honored, independent, acute-care medical center with 550 leading physicians, offering advanced, high-quality care in multiple specialties, including heart, vascular, oncology, orthopedics, spine, mental health, women’s and children’s services, stroke care, and more. Consistently rated by independent evaluators as one of the country’s 100 Top Hospitals®, St. Clair is a proven leader in patient safety, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and value. Driven by a culture of continuous

ST. CLAIR ACCEPTS ALL MAJOR INSURANCES 1 0 0 0 B OW E R H I L L R OA D

improvement, St. Clair earned the region’s only “A” grade in patient safety, and ranks in the top 2 percent in the nation in patient satisfaction. M T. L E B A N O N , P E N N SY LVA N I A 1 5 2 4 3

412.942.4000

W W W. S TC L A I R . O R G

Sources: Truven Health Analytics; Care Chex; Press Ganey; Leapfrog Group

Around the Township USC 2015 Medallion Ball Honorees UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY congratulates 19 exemplary young women honored by St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind at the 52nd Medallion Ball held on Friday November 27 at the Wyndham Grand Hotel. Among great food and entertaining music, this joyful evening celebrates that elegant tradition of recognizing the volunteers of St. Lucy’s. The coveted St. Joan of Arc medallion, awarded by Bishop David Allen Zubik, Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, proclaims the success of each honoree’s remarkable promise of selfless volunteerism. Representing our community, the journey begins by entering the Junior Medallion program. Committed young women are determined to become accomplished volunteers. From May of the eighth grade through November of the candidate’s senior year, auxiliary social activities offer comradery and encouragement.

With the guidance of a patron, the Junior Medallion member is required to submit accredited volunteer hours to the credentials committee to ensure St Lucia of Syracuse, Sicily a minimum of 25 hours of volunteer service per year in order to attain the 150 obligatory total hours. However, most honorees’ volunteer hours exceed the minimum, as they strive to achieve and take great pride in their endeavors. Why St. Lucy? Lucia, a young Christian martyr, epitomizes “light” akin to “clear, radiant and understandable.” Linked to a statue of Lucia holding a plate with two eyes, legend offers that Lucia’s eyes were put out by Diocletian, a Roman emperor from 284 to 305 AD, as her torture for being Christian. It has been written that a higher power swiftly restored her eyesight.

Paige Borst

Aubrey Carson

Emily Deluiis

Mira Fontana

Kara Gisleson

Martha Groninger

Alexandra Lugares

Lucy McKeever

Leigh McLinden

Vic McNemar

Erin Pacalo

Jessica Rach

Cara Ravasio

Haley Schlosser

Alexandra Steve

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. —Aesop

Your Satisfaction is My Goal!

Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS

Let my 25+ years of experience go to work for you!

Stephanie Stoessel

Isabel Tarcson

• Top Producer • Member of Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide • Listing and Sales Leader • Relocation Specialist

Office: 412-833-3600 ext. 219 Cell: 412-491-6984 dhorvath@howardhanna.com Howard Hanna–USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Maura Wells

Anna Zacur

Shrouded in the unrelenting darkness of the early fourth century, Lucia lost her life in the vast persecution of Christians. By the sixth century however, she was acclaimed and praised for her courage. This valiant martyr, Lucia (today known as “Lucy”) is the patron saint of the blind and those with eye trouble. In spite of her torture and eventual death, St. Lucy’s bravery is a symbol of hope and a guiding light for our own journey’s footsteps through life. Stellar seniors from Oakland Catholic, Seton LaSalle, Shadyside Academy, and Upper St. Clair High School merited the eminent medallion. Working with and alongside individuals from all walks of life—some rich, some not, some powerful, some powerless—is the epitome of generosity. Thank you to the honorees for their gracious volunteerism and to the families and friends who supported them and this program. Honoree escorts, in alphabetical order, include Anthony Abinanti, Christopher Abraham, Issac Andres, Hayden Bernhardt, Justin Brandwein, Kevin Chrissis, Zachary Christiansen, Anthony Clark, Josh Como, Charles Fletcher, Charles Hendrix IV, Benjamin Nadler, Kyle O’Connor, Gino Pezzone, Bradley Puskar, Mor Shimshi, Bennett Sneath, Douglas Wagner, and Andrew Wheeler. n

South: 111 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-257-2000 West: 7053 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071 412-787-7686 www.thomasdance.com

Now accepting summer camp registrations! Call today! Beginner through advanced levels Specialized classes for ages 2-18 Mommy & Me starting at 18 months Boys only Hip Hop Award-winning Dance Company

“Growing dancers since 1967”

Text compliments of Mary Lynne Spazok. Photos compliments of Ron Richards Portrait Studio. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Morgan Collins

Sarah Kerman

Maura Brody

Eliza Brufsky

Julianna Ioli

Photo credit: M&M

Golden Girls Amy Kerman

The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. This prestigious award challenges girls to change the world, or at least their little corner of it. Gold awardees distinguish themselves in the college admission process and enter the military at one rank higher. They gain essential life skills, tackle important issues, and make the world a better place. By the time a girl completes the process, she will have solved a community problem. Eight girls in the Upper St. Clair High School class of 2016 have earned the award. Morgan Collins, a Girl Scout since kindergarten, completed a project she named Stop Waiting on the World to Change. Morgan was concerned that her peers were not taking a stand against the world’s problems. She wanted to raise awareness about developmental issues faced by countries of the world, while inspiring students to take action on the concerns. “My project combats the problem of students not being properly informed by giving them the opportunity to educate themselves about global issues like hunger and child mortality, while offering a plethora of ways they can help solve the problem.” Morgan worked with art students and teachers to create an interactive wall focused on the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The project consists of eight brightly colored canvases, each painted with one of the symbols for the eight MDGs. A framed informational flier hangs under each of the canvases to teach curious students about that goal and ways in which they can help achieve its recommendations at home, at school, and in the world at large. Each canvas includes a Quick Response (QR) code, which can be scanned with a smartphone to be linked to websites featuring news about the MDGs. Sustainable Development Goals will replace the MDGs this year. Morgan will revise the canvases, and the installation will remain applicable for 15 years, affecting a generation of students. Morgan earned the International Baccalaureate MYP certificate and is an executive officer in USCHS Student Council, a member of the National Honor Society, a Natural Helper, and the editor of the school’s yearbook. She volunteers for Horses with Hope and The Miracle League, and works at the Community & Recreation Center. Morgan plans to study international business in college. Sarah Kerman developed and led a weeklong Girls in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) camp for middle school girls. “The lack of women working in STEM-related fields is a widespread concern. While women make up almost half of the U.S. work force, they hold less than a quarter of STEM-related jobs due largely to societal pressures and gender roles. The Girls in STEM program gave young girls a chance to explore STEM before those pressures set in. “While the girls learned specific STEM material through the activities and lessons, it was more important to me that they learned that they can and should explore STEM until they decide not to, with none of the outside pressure that many young women feel,” said Sarah. “My favorite part about STEM is the aspect of problem solving. I am glad I was able to use this skill to 72

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address the widespread lack of confidence girls face when it comes to STEM with my program, especially with all of the positive feedback I’ve gotten. It makes me feel like I can make a difference.” At her camp, the girls learned through a variety of activities and experiments, including baking cookies to learn about measurement and variables, making DNA key-chains with pony beads to learn about genetics, and constructing a tower from odd materials to learn about engineering. Sarah personally experienced the lack of women in STEM fields. Out of 20 students, she was the sole female in the Introduction to Engineering class at the high school. Sarah earned her International Baccalaureate MYP certificate, is a captain of the girls varsity Ultimate Frisbee team, a member of the National Honor Society, and works at a local ice cream shop. Every summer, Sarah works as a volunteer aide at the USC Girl Scout Day Camp. She plans to study international relations. Maura Brody designed the Step Up and Shine cheer/dance clinic for special needs students. Her project was held during the 2013 winter camp of The Friendship Circle. The Friendship Circle unites teen volunteers with children who have special needs, where they build friendships that deeply enrich their lives. Maura chose this program because “special needs children do not have as many opportunities to interact and participate in programs throughout the community. My program aimed to build confidence and develop skills through cheerleading. The program also incorporated a sense of acceptance and belonging since each child had the opportunity to shine. Additionally, the kids, volunteers, and I gained a better sense of patience throughout the experience.” The threeday event culminated in a dance performed by the kids in front of their friends and families. Maura says she learned that she has the ability to make an impact on the lives of many kids who need assistance on leaving their mark on the world. “I helped kids embrace their individuality, which was one of the best feelings in the world.” Maura is the captain of the varsity cheerleading squad, a member of the National Honor Society, and an International Baccalaureate MYP Certificate recipient. She was chosen as one of the school’s morning announcement anchors and was a Junior Mentor. She is involved with The Miracle League, the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, where she has served on its board, and is a volunteer with the Friendship Circle. Maura works in retail and spends her summers as a counselor at Emma Kaufmann Camp. Maura’s plans include majoring in middle years mathematics education and school counseling. Eliza Brufsky ran the GRL (Girls Ready to Learn) Club, a six-week after-school club at Eisenhower Elementary for fourth grade girls. Eliza had anticipated that about 20 girls would sign up, but 30 did! Eliza’s goal was for the girls to gain confidence in their math and science skills so that they would stick with those fields of study. “I wanted to make math and science seem fun and cool,” said Eliza. They did experiments and activities that explored these concepts. Eliza created booklets of activities for the participants so they could repeat the activities and

GENUINE

WORDS TO BUY AND SELL BY sincere

SKILLED

R TO TIA GO NE

HONEST

PERSONABLE

REPUTABLE

Photo credit: Redford

share them with their siblings and friends. Eliza admits that she learned a lot about planning. “If I could start over, I would spend more time planning each lesson. I learned that organization and pre-planning are very important when working with young children. I learned how to handle a large group of children and the need to think quickly to make a change and adapt to a situation.” The participants were excited to come every week to see what new things Eliza had planned for them. Eliza is a captain of the school’s varsity hiphop team and involved with the teen leadership of the Friendship Circle. She also participates in Friends at Home, where she mentors a third-grade girl weekly. She is a member of the National Honor Society and sits on Student Council. She is also involved in the Make-AWish® Club. Eliza plans to study engineering at the University of Michigan. Julianna Ioli completed her project by making a video for The Miracle League of the South Hills, a non-profit organization that gives people of all ages with disabilities a chance to be part of a team and play baseball. The goal of the video was to raise awareness about The Miracle League’s mission and to attract players and young volunteers to serve as buddies to the players. Julianna gathered a team of collaborators who helped shoot video and take photos of the players and their buddies. The video has been shown at local Rotary meetings, Boy Scout meetings, and at Boyce Middle School. “Overall, I believe I achieved my goal of spreading awareness to attract new faces to The Miracle League. And I learned I have a real passion for working with kids with disabilities. In the process of making this video, I got as much out of the experience as did the community,” she said. Julianna has continued as a Miracle League buddy and serves on the league’s Junior Board. She will attend Duquesne University in the fall, studying speech-language pathology. Molly Krawczyk developed Music with Molly! for the South Hills Interfaith Ministries’ Prospect Park afterschool program for refugee children. Molly’s goal was to help teach the children—mostly from Nepal, Pakistan, Morocco, and India—English through music.

“It was rewarding to see the three- and fouryear-olds singing. They caught on so quickly! I was surprised to learn how happy kids can make me. After each of the lessons with the kids, I drove home with a smile.” Molly plays varsity field hockey and lacrosse for the school, and runs indoor track in the winter. She is a member of the Make-AWish® Club and the National Honor Society. Molly plans to attend college and major in communications. Alexandra Jo (Ali) Peck designed her project to help children be active and eat well. Ali’s project included three components: teaching a nutrition class to eighth grade Girl Scouts, creating a display about nutrition for the USC Township Children’s Library, and leading a class on gymnastics and nutrition at a local dance studio. Ali says that the class was the most successful aspect of the project because the girls were really engaged in the gymnastic and nutrition activities. She wishes she had taught more classes! Ali is a varsity cheerleader at the high school and works at a local dance studio. Ali hopes to major in elementary education in college. Amanda Mittelman wrote a children’s cookbook and taught cooking skills to third graders at Eisenhower Elementary for her project. She shared safety tips and recipes. Amanda is a Chanticlair at the high school and an accompanist for the chorus. She is a member of the National Honor Society and is a National Merit Commended Student. She is involved in her church youth group and juggles work, nannying, and volunteering at St. Clair Hospital. Amanda will attend Grove City College this fall to study pre-med. Thanks to the volunteer Girl Scout leaders who helped the girls achieve their awards: Stacie de la Parra, Carlene Galligan, Amy Kerman, Jill Brufsky, Michele Krawczyk, Lisa Tyger, and Barb Peck. Thanks also to the girls’ parents who have helped out many times along the way! n

SUCCESSFUL SELF-MOTIVATED PROACTIVE

Amanda Mittelman

SOLID

Alexandra Jo Peck Photo credit: Trey Thomas

DRIVEN

Molly Krawczyk Photo credit: Ron Richards

SOLD

LOYAL outgoing TRUSTING CLIENT-CENTERED

LEIGH HARKREADER Coldwell Banker Realtor Leigh.Harkreader@gmail.com LEIGHHARKREADER.COM 412.833.5405 (o)

412.401.6389 (c)

To learn more about Girl Scouts in Upper St. Clair, contact Cara or Jim Corona, community facilitators, at 724-941-1193. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Benefits of life at Providence Point

Now, you can experience Providence Point’s active senior lifestyle without any move-in obligation! Learn about Choices, our new future residency program or join us for an upcoming event.

•No Property Taxes

Living in a retirement community makes property taxes a thing of the past.

•Goodbye to Home Maintenance

Call 412-489-3550.

You’ve reached the best point in your life!

Forget the expense of utilities, snow removal, and other major home upkeep. Enjoy scheduled cleaning and regular maintenance services.

•More Tax Advantages

Under our LifeCare agreement, you can take a one-time medical expense deduction for federal income tax purposes. That helps offset capital gains taxes associated with the sale of property such as your home.

“Everything I enjoy doing is available here. This friendly, safe environment has given me—and my children—peace of mind.”

•Financial Security

With LifeCare, you can have peace of mind knowing that, if or when needed, your future long-term care needs will be met.

•Asset Protection

Our resident agreement offers a refund of up to 90% of the entrance fee paid.

Providence Point resident Terri Snavely, with daughter, Susan Fitzsimmons 500 PROVIDENCE POINT BOULEVARD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15243 WWW.PROVIDENCEPOINT.ORG A Baptist Homes Society community

Will You Surf the Silver Tsunami? Marilyn Walsh, Providence Point The silver tsunami has begun. In the next 25 years, the number of people older than 65 years of age will double. Plus, the average life expectancy is projected to rise, as well. It is estimated that the average person may live to be 110 years old by 2030. Thanks to medical breakthroughs, technological advances, and better healthcare services, we will live longer than ever. As this group of Americans once labeled the “Baby Boomers” begins to rely on an already overburdened healthcare system, many are beginning to explore the quality and availability of senior living and care services. This has helped spike interest in continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). CCRCs are senior living communities that offer a combination of housing options and health care services, including independent living, personal care, and nursing services. Thus, within a single setting, an individual can move from an independent to a more supportive housing environment as his or her needs change. Some CCRCs, like Providence Point, offer 74

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

LifeCare agreements, or contracts, between the CCRC and the resident that ensure continuing care no matter what a person’s future healthcare needs might be. Today’s older adult is becoming increasingly savvy about the options available for senior living. Claudia Scheibel, a marketing counselor at Providence Point, a CCRC situated on a lush hilltop just off Bower Hill Road, stated, “Today’s seniors are coming in with checklists and expectations. They understand the concept of a CCRC and do their homework to help them with their decisions.” Claudia says that the CCRCs attract a wide range of people for a variety of reasons. “People born in the 1920s to 1940s lived through tough times, saved their money, and are attracted to the security and value of CCRCs. LifeCare agreements, like the one offered at Providence Point, ensure care throughout their lifetime, and provide asset protection, stability, and security. “The boomer generation is a little different. They’ve changed jobs and careers; most likely they’ve relocated, remarried, Spring 2016

Providence Point’s 24-hour fitness center

and traveled. They want choice, diversity, and access to the latest technologies. Boomers may not place as much emphasis on asset protection as the generation that preceded them, but they want choices in everything from finishes to fine dining. They want services and amenities.” CCRCs are preparing for the silver tsunami. Many, like Providence Point, offer all sorts of arts and cultural programs, fitness centers, Wi-Fi, and wellness programs. Providence Point has begun working with Uber to accommodate the growing desire for individual transportation. The demand for services and choices will continue as the silver tsunami approaches. The good news is, boomers will benefit from the demands of the previous generation and also find security and value in quality senior living communities. n See ad for Providence Point, a Baptist Home Society Community, on this page.

Happenings! The 13th annual Three Rivers Community Band Festival will bring together three of the best community bands in Western Pennsylvania, plus an all-new festival band. The festival will take place from 2:30 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 23 at the Upper St. Clair High School Theater, with doors opening at 1:45 p.m. WQED-FM’s Jim Cunningham returns this year as program host. Admission is free; contributions to support the festival are appreciated, but not required. The T hre e R i v e r s Community Band Festival continues to be a showcase of the many musically-talented individuals in the region, and Community Band South, conducted by Jim Bennett, playing at last year’s festival the concert promises a medley of music 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 more than 80 members is directed by Dean Streator, former teacher of instrumental music at Bethel Park High School; James Bennett, retired director of bands and chairman of fine arts from the Upper St. Clair School District; and Max Gonano, former director of bands at California University of Pennsylvania and music department chair. Since its premier concert on December 14, 1987, Community Band South has been entertaining audiences throughout the communities from which its membership is drawn, performing an average of 15 concerts a year. Also participating is the East Winds Symphonic Band, founding band of the festival. Joining the festival this year as the regional guest band will be the Mon Valley Community Concert Band. The fourth band will be the “ultimate community band,” made up of musicians from more than 50 community bands in Allegheny County and ten other counties in the region. The 2016 Festival Band will perform selections under the baton of guest conductor Stephen L. Gage, director of bands and orchestra at Youngstown State University. The Festival Band performance will be an exciting kick-off to a wonderful afternoon of music. After the concert, festivalgoers are invited to enjoy free light refreshments and take the opportunity to meet and greet the musicians.

D&M CHIROPRACTIC AND THERAPEUTIC REHAB

For more information about the Three Rivers Community Band Festival, visit www.ewsb.org/festival. Photo credit: John Small The Women’s Golf Association of Mt. Lebanon invites area women to join in for a round of golf every Tuesday, April through September. Membership is open to women of all skill levels. For more information, call Sharon Ackerman at 412-480-3319. St. Clair Hospital needs volunteers for a wide variety of assignments. Adult volunteers are needed for the gift shop, courier (delivering mail), supportive visiting, transporting patients in wheelchairs, information desk in the main lobby and first floor, surgical family waiting room to keep families of patients undergoing surgery informed of their progress, and clerical duties throughout the hospital. Junior volunteers are needed for the gift shop, gift cart, information desks, and escort. Training, free parking, and discounted meals are provided. Call 412-942-2085 to schedule an interview.

Free volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) is at The Bible Chapel, 300 Gallery Drive in McMurray through Friday, April 15 (Closed Good Friday, March 25). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Walk-ins only; no appointments taken. Volunteers will assist taxpayers with Federal, Pennsylvania, and local wage tax returns, real estate/rent rebates, and PACE applications. Bring the following: Proof of ID for yourself and your spouse. If married and filing jointly, both spouses should be present. Birth dates and Social Security or individual taxpayer identification cards or notices for you, your spouse, and dependents; copy of last year’s tax return; W-2 forms, 1099s, and all other income and interest forms; totals of itemized deductions; receipts for real estate taxes and large purchase items; total paid to daycare providers and their related tax ID number; a voided check for direct deposit of refund. Do not contact The Bible Chapel regarding VITA. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Spring 2016

Are you struggling with neck and back pain? Have you tried different approaches with the same result? We have corrected the most BASIC to the most ADVANCED cases of spinal stenosis, bulging/herniated disc, neck and back pain.

DON’T wait until it gets worse, call now! We can help!

412-833-1101

2555 Washington Rd., Suite 620 Summerfield Commons Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

www.dmchiro.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Mark Trombetta, MD, FACR, system director of clinical programs, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, department of radiation oncology, is a lead editor of the newly released textbook Brachytherapy; An International Perspective. Dr. Trombetta’s co-editors are Paolo Montemaggi, MD, Allegheny Health Network professor of radiation oncology Dr. Mark Trombetta (emeritus), and Luther Brady, MD, of Drexel University College of Medicine. Brachytherapy is an advanced cancer treatment in which radioactive seeds are placed in or near a tumor, delivering a high dose of radiation to the tumor while avoiding surrounding healthy tissues. Dr. Trombetta is board certified through the American Board of Radiology with a sub-specialization in brachytherapy. Brachytherapy: An International Perspective is described by the book’s publisher Springer as “the first truly international text to take the practitioners from the history, the physical basis, and the rationale for brachytherapy through to the techniques, the results, and the management of complications. Each chapter incorporates the American and European guidelines, and the text has been written from both perspectives by many of the most noted global experts in the field.” Other Allegheny Health Network physicians and researchers contributed chapters to the book. The book is available for purchase at springer.com and amazon.com, and will also be available as an e-book.

This past December, Adam Heil and Mihir Gite were notified by Sergeant Turk, Army career counselor from the South Hills, that they were conditionally selected to receive an Army ROTC scholarship. The standards for admission into this program are quite high, since the individuals who complete this training are to ultimately be entrusted with the lives of American soldiers. This ROTC scholarship provides full college tuition Left to right are Sergeant Turk, Adam Heil, and mandatory eduand Mihir Gite cational fees or room and board for $10,000 per year, and provide an allowance for textbooks, school supplies, and required equipment. The scholarship also includes an educational grant of up to $5000 each school year. The average value of a four-year scholarship is approximately $100,000. While the scholarship will go a long way toward meeting financial expenses associated with going to college, when Adam and Mihir graduate, they will have more to show for their college days than just a diploma—they will also have the confidence, self-discipline, and leadership skills that come with having earned a commission as an Army officer.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

Dr. John D’Angelo (center), with TCS honor guard Chris Geraci, Shawn McDermott, and Tim Hall

On November 5, 2015, at the Emergency Medical Service Institute Recognition Awards (EMSI), Dr. John D’Angelo, EMT-PhD was recognized for his outstanding contributions in emergency medical services. Tri-Community South EMS director Nora Helfrich recommended John for the award. Nominees must demonstrate EMS knowledge, compassion, professionalism, and commitment to EMS. John teaches CPR to countless numbers of students, and he plays an active role with many scouting organizations so that scouts can earn their badges. As one scoutmaster wrote, “John is the most knowledgeable and informative speaker I have ever encountered in all my years of scouting.” One school administrator wrote, “The proficiency John shares to empower the audience to learn life saving techniques is commendable.” Directors of public works departments, township managers, librarians, churches, day care centers, PTOs, business professionals, physicians, health care professionals, and police officers send letters and thank you notes, many with monetary donations because of John’s efforts. Members at Tri-Community South EMS are honored to work with John and to have him as part of their EMS system.

Two USC residents, Marlo and Todd Lancaster, have recently authored a personalized children’s book. Todd also served as the book’s illustrator. The book, Birthday Village, takes the child on a journey through, appropriately enough, Birthday Village, and begins on the child’s birthday, when the child and his or her family members are picked up by Ballard the Balloon Pilot in a hot air balloon shaped like a giant cupcake. Upon arriving in Birthday Village, they are greeted by Val Garvin, the mayor of Birthday Village, who introduces them to this wonderful place and gives them the highlights of what they will see and who they will meet. From there, they partner with the child’s own individual birthday buddy, who takes them through the rest of the day, and asks the child to choose his favorite birthday dinner and cake. They visit places like the Magical Gardens and the Four Seasons Forest, and meet interesting people and learn about topic-specific subjects related to the child’s birthday. At the end of the journey, the mayor declares that each year, the child’s birth date will be forever known as his or her own day in Birthday Village. For more information about Birthday Village or to purchase the book, visit www.BirthdayVillageBook.com.

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Traveling with TODAY

Traveling with TODAY Nearing two decades of camaraderie has not only kept the nucleus of a USC women’s group together that formed through their children’s nursery school association, but each year another new friend or two joins in for their annual holiday gathering, which includes an ornament exchange. Beautifully wrapped in its winter 2015 cover, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

was thrilled to be included in a group picture before each woman went home with a fun-loving tree decoration and another great memory to share. n

Read the following criteria to find out how. • Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Digital photo or hard copy 35mm accepted. ‣‣ For digital, attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. ‣‣ For 35 mm, attach post-it to back of hard copy photo, listing the required information (see below). • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location. • List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Deliver one 35 mm photo with details to the USC Township receptionist in an envelope marked “ USC TODAY,” or • Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line. Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.

The holidays are a great reason to enjoy friendships and make time to get together. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

A History Lesson

Beadling coalminers, gathered outside the Pittsburgh Coal Company’s Nixon Electric Repair Shop

This photograph, well over one hundred years old, shows Beadling coal miners outside the Pittsburgh Coal Company’s Nixon Electric Repair Shop. At one point, as many as 300 men worked in the Beadling Mine in Upper St. Clair. The area around Painters Run Road was the local coal mining community. Many of the miners’ children attended McMillen School, and the area was later serviced by the tiny Beadling Post Office until the 1950s. If you are out and about and look carefully, a few sealed entrances to the mines and tunnels are still visible. n For genealogy inquiries or to submit old photos to the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair, contact president@hsusc.org.

Successfully Combating Hospital-Acquired Infections Hospital-associated infections are one of the most challenging quality and safety issues confronting the healthcare industry, and at St. Clair Hospital, a dynamic and multifaceted infection prevention program is getting outstanding results. In fact, St. Clair is a leader among regional hospitals in the prevention of Laura Morris hospital-acquired infections, with a track record that meets or exceeds national standards for some of the most common types of infections. The key to St. Clair’s success lies in the philosophy that infection prevention is a major component of hospital quality and safety and that St. Clair holds infection prevention as the responsibility of every single employee and volunteer, whether that person works in the clinical realm, an administrative capacity, or support services. According to Laura Morris, M.T., (ASCP), CIC, senior infection preventionist and a leader of the program, St. Clair has created “a culture of patient safety and infection prevention” that engages every staff member and department and permeates every aspect of the hospital’s operations. Morris heads St. Clair’s Infection Prevention Committee, which includes representatives from administration, medical staff, nursing, laboratory services, pharmacy, nutritional services, and environmental services. The committee takes a comprehensive approach to infection prevention that includes ongoing staff education, data collection and monitoring, and clinically excellent management of high risk patients. Sub-committees address the major types of hospital-associated infections, constantly seeking to improve practices and procedures. It’s a concerted team effort on every level. As a result of this vigilance, says Morris, for fiscal year 2015, St. Clair Hospital had the lowest overall healthcare associated infection rate since the hospital began recording it. Notably, St. Clair has reduced the incidence of one major type of infection—central line associated bloodstream infections—to zero, a claim that only ten percent of hospitals in the U.S. can make. n

Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your homeowner’s coverage The Township of Upper St. Clair 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. 78

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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 is advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished

Spring 2016

For more information on St. Clair Hospital’s infection prevention program, visit www.stclair.org. See ads on pages 2 and 69.

basements, to obtain some level of coverage. Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271. n

Coldwell Banker Charitable Events Benefit Many

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Charity Benefits, the charitable arm of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, with the participation of their employees and affiliated sales associates, hosts multiple charitable events throughout the year to support Make-A-Wish®. With the South Hills office recently hosting its annual holiday breakfast and raising more than $17,000 for Make-A-Wish® this past December, approximately 250 friends and neighbors from

Left to right are Shannon O’Halloran, development coordinator for MakeA-Wish® Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia; Stella the Star; Marian McGinley, manager of the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage South Hills office; and Sierra Lilac, event speaker, former “wish kid,” and development coordinator for Make-A-Wish® Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia

the community enjoyed a morning of fun, featuring breakfast and holiday entertainment. Thanks to the involvement and generosity of members of the communities, this benefit has raised more than $700,000 for Make-A-Wish® and has helped to fulfill approximately 215 wishes during the last nine years. The South Hills office also collected food donations for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and raised approximately $3300 for that organization. “It’s thanks to the passionate efforts of our employees, affiliated sales associates, and the participation of our friends and neighbors, we are able to so generously support Make-A-Wish® and the many children it serves,” said George Hackett, president of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. “Programs that contribute to the well-being of area residents are integral to the community and we are happy to participate.” Coldwell Banker’s Airport/Beaver regional office will host its ninth annual Bowling for Wishes event on Sunday, March 13 at the Paradise Island Bowl & Beach in Neville Island. For more information, contact the Airport/Beaver office at 412-264-8300. And, don’t forget to save the date for the sixth annual Charity Benefits Golf Classic, which will be held on Monday, June 6 at Diamond Run Golf Club in Sewickley. For more information, visit www.cbgolfclassic.com or contact Sarah Reaves at Sarah.Reaves@pittsburghmoves.com or 412-548-1222. n Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services is part of NRT LLC, the nation’s largest residential real estate brokerage company. For more information, visit www.ColdwellBankerHomes.com. See ad on outside back cover. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Local Clubs and Organizations Directory 1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President .....................................412-851-0570 American Assoc. of University Women Helpline............................................................ 1-800-326-AAUW Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club (www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?cid=3664) Tom Atkins.............................................................. 412-901-0987 Boy Scouts of America..........................................412-325-7965 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Woman’s Club http://brooksidewomansclub.webs.com Lisa Ambrose......................................................... 412-916-7303 Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward.......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Angela Petersen, Executive Director................. 412-831-1107 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ............................................................412-221-5717 Friends of the Library Kate Mayberry, President ....................................412-835-5540 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President...................................... 412-854-1835 Girl Scouts of USC Jim Corona............................................................724-941-1193 jim.corona@verizon.net Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Marjie Heins........................................................... 412-835-2050 www.hsusc.org www.facebook.com/hsusc president@hsusc.org League of Women Voters Louise Cannon..................................................... 412-835-8822 Lifespan Kim Rollinson............................................... 412-464-1300 x 127 Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com) Meridith Markovitz.................................................412-401-5233 meridithmarko@msn.com Laura Murtough.....................................................412-478-1736 Lauramurtough@hotmail.com Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Melissa Epler...........................................................479-640-7772 melissaepler@gmail.com South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org ...........................................412-306-8090 South Hills Interfaith Ministries (SHIM) James Guffey, Executive Director...................... 412-854-9120 South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich .....................................................412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Barb Baker............................................................. 724-258-6828 South West Communities Chamber of Commerce www.swccoc.org Emerald VanBuskirk, Executive Director............ 412-221-4100 info@swccoc.org

The Outdoor Classroom (www.theoutdoorclassroompa.org) Jessica Kester, Program Manager......................412-838-0064 Town Hall South Maureen Ludwig, Chairman............................... 412-429-7202 www.townhallsouth.org Trotwood Manor West Association Tyson Swigart........................................................ 412-595-7600 United Senior Citizens of USC Chaz McCrommon.................................... 412-221-1099, x603 USC Athletic Association (www.uscaasports.org) Brett Russell, President..............................................412-298-5273 Baseball/Spring................... Erik Lund....................412-831-9598 Boys’ Basketball/Winter..... Jay Sukernek............412-334-0975 Girls’ Basketball/Winter...... Glenn Groninger......412-854-5345 Football/Fall........................ Phil Elias.....................412-498-5015 Softball/Spring.................... Jenn Andrejcik.........412-848-3410 Rec Soccer/Fall.................. Bill Friday...................412-595-7097 Traveling Soccer/Fall......... Brett Russell...............412-298-5273 Wrestling/Winter................. Matt Pollock.............412-221-7383 USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org) Melanie Hendrix ...................................................412-779-3742 USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Brian Schill............................................................. 412-833-6229 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org) Preston Shimer...................................................... 412-221-5163 USC Democratic Committee Brien Wall, Chair.................................uscdems01@gmail.com Mary McIntyre, Vice Chair USC Hockey Club Pete Gialames...................................................... 724-213-2990 pkhockey@gmail.com USC League for the Arts (USCLA) Joan Newman ......................................................412-835-8127 USC Library Helen Palascak, Director..................................... 412-835-5540 USC Newcomer’s Club (www.uscnewcomers.org) Krystin Ciesco, President.......................................209-639-3590 USC Parent Teacher Council Holly Spina, President............................................412-851-6984 pghspina@verizon.net USC Republican Committee Barbara Lloyd, Chairman ................................... 412-831-8918 blloyd470@yahoo.com USC Swim Club Kristin Matheny, President........ kmatheny@uscswimclub.org USC Volunteer Firefighters Daniel Barr, President ................................ 412-835-0660, x100 president@uscvfd.org Western PA Kennel Association Thomas Oelschlager.............................................724-941-6973 YMCA South Hills Area Ken Soliday, Executive Director.......................... 412-833-5600

Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office at 412-833-1600, extension 2284, by June 16, 2016, if your club or organization’s information needs to be updated, added to, or deleted from our list. Thank you. For an online version of this directory, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and find the “Features” section under the “Past Issues” sub-directory. 80

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Spring 2016

Serving Upper St. Clair Churches and Synagogues

Nursery Schools

Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair 2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775

St. David’s Episcopal Church 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-4060

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132

Berean Fellowship Church 300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township 412-220-4673

St. George Orthodox Church 610 Dewey Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-2277

Beth-El Nursery School 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132

St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800 stgregoryusc@aol.com

Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168

Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0441 Beverly Heights Christian Preschool 1207 Washington Road—412-561-7200

Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-0405

St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-6275

Center Church Christian Preschool 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050

St. Louise de Marillac Roman Catholic Church 320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010

Christ United Methodist Church Nursery School 44 Highland Road—412-854-4310

Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153

First Bethel United Methodist Church-Kings School Kids

Bower Hill Community Church 70 Moffett St., Mt. Lebanon—412-561-4114

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 126 Fort Couch Road 412-833-0031

Kingdom Kids Nursery School 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-6227

Brightwood Christian Church 5044 West Library Ave., Bethel Park—412-835-6703 Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050 Christ Community Church of the South Hills 100 Warwick Drive—Sunday 10 a.m. www.cccsh.org Christ United Methodist Church 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621

South Hills Assembly 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-8900 South Hills Church of the Nazarene 5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333 South Hills Community Baptist Church 2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313

5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141

Montessori Early Childhood Center 2400 Old Washington Road—412-835-3340 Mount Lebanon Montessori 550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-563-2858 Mushroom Family Learning Center 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-1225 Noah’s Ark Preschool-Our Redeemer Lutheran 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-942-6699

South Hills Interfaith Ministries 5301 Park Avenue, Bethel Park 412-854-9120

Ruthfred Lutheran Nursery School 3401 South Park Road, Bethel Park—412-835-7140

Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7600

St. David's Preschool and Mother's Morning Out 905 E. McMurray Road, Venetia—724-413-0490

The Bible Chapel 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray 724-941-8990

St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery Washington and Mayfair Roads, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644

Grace Fellowship Church of South Hills 3857 Willow Avenue, Castle Shannon—412-334-3803

The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (aka Sunny Hill) 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-6277

St. Thomas More Preschool & Transitional Preschool to 8th Grade 134 Fort Couch Road—412-833-1412

Hillside Christian Community 1050 Campbells Run Road, Carnegie—412-279-2996

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630

Faith Lutheran Church of Upper St. Clair 80 Bartley Road—412-835-4590 First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700 First Church of Christ, Scientist 1100 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1125 Good Shepherd Church 110 Hays Road—724-941-9418

Holy Child Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213

Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7687 Westminster Nursery School 2040 Washington Road—412-835-2906

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox 123 Gilkeson Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-833-3355

Day Care (Children)

Day Care (Adult)

Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Cedar Blvd. at Hollycrest Dr., Mt. Lebanon 412-531-8554

Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-1043 Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-854-4310 First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School Kids 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141 Kid Biz, LLC 3540 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172 KinderCare Learning Center 1040 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-831-1888 KinderCare of McMurray 118 Wilhaven Drive, McMurray—724-941-4579 KinderCare of Mt. Lebanon 1610 N. Highland Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-1953 Westminster Child Development Center 2040 Washington Road—412-835-9450

Prime Time Adult Care, Inc. Alzheimer Day Care 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6661

Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 www.mlepc.org facebook.com/mlepc New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661 Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467 Peace Lutheran Church 107 Carol Drive, McMurray—724-941-9441 Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-3635 Ruthfred Lutheran Church Patterson and South Park Roads, Bethel Park 412-835-7140

Spring 2016

Seton Center—Brookline 1900 Pioneer Avenue, Brookline—412-344-4777 *Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.

If we’ve overlooked your information, have incorrect information, or if you would like your Upper St. Clair facility to be represented in our magazine with an article, please write to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For an online version, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and find the “Features” section under the “Past Issues” sub-directory. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Celebrating Veterans Day at USC’s Veterans Monument Park The School District and Township of Upper St. Clair, along with the Upper St. Clair Veterans Park Committee, hosted a Veterans Day observance on November 11, 2015, at USC’s Veterans Monument Park. Former Allegheny County Executive and veteran Jim Roddey was the featured speaker. n Photos by Terry Kish

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

BU NESSES AT YO UR E B U S IINESSES YOU R SERVI C CE Stacy & Emanuel Romanias JB S LAWN MAINTENANCE COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SERVICES

USC residents since 1991, with over 14 years of experience.

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Office 724.941.3000 Cell 412.370.3447

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Grass Cutting • Hedge Trimming Mulching • Planting Trees & Shrubs

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550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

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PRESCHOOL (AGES 2-6) THRU 6TH GRADE OPENINGS AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES

www.MtLebanonMontessori.org

Estate & Household Liquidations Fawn Moore Campbell, Proprietor

412-657-9132

sydneybmoore.com

Experience is the key to success Make it your business to see USCHS’s spring musical, White Christmas, with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. Attend the musical Thursday, March 10, 6:30 p.m., or Friday or Saturday, March 11 or 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold 10:30 a.m.–noon at the USCHS box office on performance dates and one hour prior to the start of each show.

Custom Made Window Treatments Roman shades, pillows, bedding and more.

draperies

Call 41-851-2060 (music activity hotline) or visit www.usctheater.org for more information.

valances

fabrics

trims and more

Vivian C. Dibrell (412) 344.3308 chasecustom.com

412-561-5405

info@outreachteen.org Dear Outreach, My 15-year-old daughter has stopped talking to me. When I try asking her about her life or what’s bothering her, she tells me I don’t understand. She seems upset by my efforts to reach out or relate to her and complains that all I do is lecture. How can we start communicating again? Quiet Mom

Dear Quiet Mom, Often coupled with the struggle for teens to establish independence and identity comes a change in communication patterns in the family. Teens talk to their peers more and value their opinions but still benefit greatly from having open communication with their parents. Start by listening. When something is concerning you, ask open-ended questions and get their perspective first. Listen for the feelings behind the message and validate these by saying something like “You were really upset by what she said.” Next, share what you noticed and are concerned about and see if your teen can offer any solutions. Sometimes when parents tell their stories and try to relate, it leaves the teen feeling like they are not being heard or their unique experience is not valued. So instead of saying “I know exactly what that’s like,” say “This is how it was for me, what’s it like for you?” Try to catch your teen at good moments to talk, such as in the car, and have regular family meetings to address family rules and functioning. Above all, be available, be open, and offer encouragement. n

Outreach Teen & Family Services is a nonprofit, confidential counseling service offering counseling and educational programs to youth and parents that are affordable, accessible, and discreet; all within a welcoming, supportive environment. Contact 412-561-5405 or info@outreachteen.org. Spring 2016

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SIMPLIFY Be seen in

’16

Advertiser Index

Spring 2016

www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home

Advertiser Page

Affordable Decks ................................................................................... 68 * Angelo Associates ................................................................................. 68 * ARAMARK ............................................................................................. 35 Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. ...................................................................... 64 * Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ..7 Brookside Lumber ................................................................................. 66 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................. 79 Chase Custom Creations ....................................................................... 83 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC ........................................... 57 * Clark Renovations, Inc. .........................................Front Cover, 12, 13, 65 * Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office .......................Back outside cover Coldwell Banker–Leigh Harkreader ....................................................... 73 Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey & Lisa Davis....................................... 21 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. .......................................................................... 73 D&M Chiropractic & Therapeutic Rehab, Inc. ....................................... 75 Dance By Cami ...................................................................................... 23

* Louis Anthony Jewelers .......................................................................... 5 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ....................................................................... 43 * Mount Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ................................ 83 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 35 Orthopaedic Specialists–UPMC ............................................................ 19 Peck International Travel Services ......................................................... 77 Pediatric Dentistry South ....................................................................... 43 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 43 * Pinebridge Commons Associates .......................................................... 42 Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater ............................................ 37 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company........................................................... 79 Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society Community ........................ 74 RE/MAX Premier Group–James Roman ................................................ 19 RE/MAX Premier Group–Susanne Wagner ............................................ 77 * Rusmur Floors ...............................................................Back inside cover * St. Clair Hospital ............................................................................... 2, 69

What They Said After Team RobotiX was featured on the cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY in the fall of 2015, we received an outpouring of support from corporate and individual sponsors, found new mentors for our K-12 robotic competition teams, educated the public about our programs, and developed new community partnerships. We are truly grateful to the USC community for helping provide robotics education for kids and teachers! Visit http://www.teamrobotix.com for more information.—Dr. Kim J. Hyatt Davey Tree and Lawn Care ..................................................................... 66 Extended Day Services .......................................................................... 37 Farmers Insurance–Tom DiPasquale ..................................................... 54 Furgiuele, Natalie, M.D., F.A.C.S. .......................................................... 33 * Howard Hanna USC Office ............................................Front inside cover * Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................... 75 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley .............................................................. 55 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 71 Infinity Custom Homes ............................................................................ 3 Jade Grille ............................................................................................. 23 JB’s Lawn Maintenance ......................................................................... 83 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein .................................... 57 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................... 42 LDR Spine, USA, Inc. ............................................................................ 55

* Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ............................................................ 67 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 27 South Hills Endoscopy Center ................................................................. 1 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ..................................................... 42 Sydney B. Moore Estate Sales ............................................................... 83 The Romanias Group at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices .................. 83 * Thomas Studio of Performing Arts ........................................................ 71 Torrente at Upper St. Clair–Luxury Apartments ....................................... 9 Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................. 42 Valley Brook Dental, LLC–Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD ............................. 54 Washington Health System .................................................................... 21 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz .......................... 15

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY thanks the wonderful advertisers who have supported our publication for 22 years.

We couldn’t do it without you!

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 42 issues. Thank you.

Upcoming guides for the Summer 2016 issue include Dining, Home & Garden and Summer Activities. 84

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Spring 2016

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Be Inspired

Bridgeville n Moon n Murrysville n North Hills n Whitehall PA Contractor’s License #1961

Relax. It’s Rusmur. www.rusmurfloors.com

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh PA Permit No. 206

ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

This magazine was printed on recycled paper.

Global Connections, Local Traditions Hope Bassichis

Noel Bliman

John Geisler

Elaine Goldblum

Sydnie Jones

Josie Keller

Nancy Morgan

Anita Crago

Lynn Dempsey

Janine Dillon

Lisa Davis

Andrew Guillot

Leigh Harkreader

Nancy Heffernan

Judy Hlister

Kathi Kernan & Mary Torchia

Ron Lancharich

Carmela Viviano

Genie Gooding

Barbara Cusick

Julie Puzausky

Faith Williard

Jim Walsh

Jane Krauth

Hedy Krenn

Tulla Rakoczy

Kathy Sekeras

Mary Ann Wellener

Maria & Joe Lane

Jane York

Laura Simon

Julie Leslie

Diane Snyder

Marian McGinley Manager

The South Hills Office 412-833-5405 • 1630 Washington Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15241

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