Spring 2024 Guides Celebration Home Improvement
Luxury Residential Design & Construction twpusc.org/usctoday
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair
The Howard Hanna Upper St. Clair Office is ready to help with all of your real estate needs! 180 Fort Couch Rd, Upper St. Clair, Pa 15241 - 412-833-3600
Robbins Bobbitt Associate Broker
Bonnie Bagay
Del Burrell
Jim Clark
Kerrie Constantini
Lauren Ganoe
Janet Hensler
Diane Horvath
Frankie Kunselman
Chris Longenecker
Marie Mageras
Kathy McCloskey
Renee Ringer
Shannon Rosenberry
Jen Schalk
Beth Thomas
Suzy Voss
Jane York
Jody Yurcich
Izzy Zehner
412.232.8104 MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.
David Limauro, M.D. • Mark Cedar, D.O. • Nicholas Bellicini, D.O. • Xuong Lu, M.D.
No referrals necessary. Ask for operator #1. Jungmin Leo Lee, M.D. • Lisa Oliva, D.O. • Theresa Schuerle, D.O. • Bridger Clarke, M.D.
MARCH IS
COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH You may be eligible for your screening colonoscopy at age 45. Check with your insurance carrier to confirm coverage.
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.
2589 Boyce Plaza Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-838-0400
2589 Boyce Plaza Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-838-0400
100 Stoops Drive, Suite 280 Monongahela, PA 15063 412-232-8104
Spring 2024
•
Volume 30
twpusc.org/usctoday •
16 From the Mouths of Babes
•
Issue 1
usctoday@usctoday.org
Features & Around the Township
Township
13 TODAY Celebrates 30 Years 14 Medallion Ball Honorees 22 Abridged Perception 72 Hope in the South Hills
51 Township Flood Services and
48 Department of Finance 2024 Budget Highlights Protection
58 Upper St. Clair is Hiring 59 New Director of Recreation and Leisure Services
Guides/Directories School District 38 Courtyard Crew Grows at Boyce
25 School District Annual Report 34 Focusing on Financial Literacy
10 Celebration 23 Pinebridge Commons 64 Home Improvement
and Career Readiness
36 Author Visits Baker and Streams
40 #HaveYouHeard?
Photo Ops 62 United Senior Citizens 63 2023 Veterans Day Observance
52 Things to Know About Firefighting and the USCVFD
The spring cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is sponsored by McQueen Building Company. To discover what they learned while renovating their own home, see the article on pages eight and nine.
74 Horses with Hope Saddles Up
You can purchase a TODAY cover, too! Contact usctoday@usctoday.org for specifications and rates.
for Spring 2
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
“I know I want to avoid a nursing home. What other choices do I have?”
Learn more about the smart way to age at home.
www.Envisage.org 412.605.4197
An Envisage membership makes it possible to age independently and successfully in the place you call home —today and tomorrow.
USCTodayMag_Envisage_Jan24_7.5x4.875_fc.indd 1
1/4/24 9:56 AM
Located in the heart of the South Hills! Specializing in customized care for the whole family! Call or text us today to set up your consultation! Remember the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by age 7! Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
3
Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools
The award-winning, official publication of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit School District and Township of Upper St. Clair community magazine dedicated to promot-
Summer 2024 edition includes Home & Garden and Summer Activites Deadlines: Articles – March 7 Advertising – March 11 Website: twpusc.org/usctoday Email: usctoday@usctoday.org @usctoday
Mark Mansfield
Paul Fox
Terry Kish
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, call 412-851-2851. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s official magazine, please send a $12 check payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues, with their name and address, including zip code, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA 15241. Add $10 to cover international mailing.
Board of School Directors
Jennifer A. Schnore, President Dr. Danielle Wetzel, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Dr. Daphna Gans Kelly P. Hanna Justin Lamber Michael R. Mascaro Angela B. Petersen
ing 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 30 years of our publication.
The 117th 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.
Alex Pepke
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Sarah Beitler
The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the summer 2024 issue and will be published in May 2024. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@usctoday.org Article Information Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish phone: 412-286-1214 Advertising Information Office Manager Sarah Beitler phone: 412-286-1363 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org
Township Board of Commissioners Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1 Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2 Jason H. Graves, Ward 3 Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Richard I. Thomas, At Large
Hallie H. Snyder 4
AnneMarie Kopach
Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative Editors and Staff Terry Kish, Editor-in-Chief Alex Pepke, Township Associate Editor AnneMarie Kopach, School District Associate Editor Sarah Beitler, Office Manager, Marketing & Advertising Executive Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Student Interns Caleb Guarino Miriam Gutensohn
Colleen DeMarco
Kerry Turner
Dorothy Clark
Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Cindy Brophy, Lindsay Dill, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Chris Gmiter, Caleb Guarino (intern & YWG), Miriam Gutensohn (intern & YWG), Ted Hale, Lauren Iannacchione, Dr. Mohammed Khan, Jay Lynch, Geoff and Christine McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Rep. Dan Miller, Keith Morse, Jim O’Brien, Alex Pepke, Jim Render, Adina Schiffman, Mary Lynne Spazok, Tina Vojtko, Tom Yochum and Maggie Zangara. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District, grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@usctoday.org to find out how your student can contribute. The 117th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-851-2851 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@usctoday.org Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Freeport Press 2127 Reiser Ave. SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844 Copyright © 1994–2024. All rights reserved.
Spring 2024
WHERE YOU'RE
MORE THAN A PATIENT Bob, Scott Township Man On A Mission 21,186 Miles and Counting Hip Replacement Recipient
stclair.org
A Spring Note From the Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski
Dr. John T. Rozzo
Welcome to 2024 and the spring issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY! The new year marks a major milestone for TODAY as we celebrate three decades as the official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair. To learn more about TODAY’s history and be part of the 30-year fun, be sure to turn to page 13. Through the years, one of the magazine’s greatest assets has been our volunteer writers, from the young to the young-at-heart. This issue contains a sampling of their informative and entertaining stories, including a showcase of Medallion Ball honorees, news about a local podcaster, confusion about a local marketing tool and much more. The School District section (pages 24–43) includes its eight-page annual report, with information about the school community, statistics, budgets and achievements. Also included in this section is an article about the CAPS course being offered at Boyce Middle School that focuses on financial and career readiness. While not everyone may have children in the District’s schools, we can all appreciate how our schools benefit our community. The Township section (pages 46–63) leads off with the Department of Finance’s 2024 Budget Highlights, with additional information on the C&RC fund, real estate tax notices and the sanitary sewer fund. Also included in this section is an article about flood services and protection, which offers advice on how to deal with a flood. Learn more about firefighting by reading the USCVFD’s article. Make sure to check out the offerings at the library and C&RC — your calendar will be filled in no time! If there is something you would like to see featured in a future issue of TODAY, let us know! For 30 years, this publication has been used to communicate with our residents, and we hope to continue celebrating the people who call Upper St. Clair home for many more years to come.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools
twpusc.org/usctoday | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us 6
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
World-class Assisted Living and Memory Care, we’re here for your loved one … and you At Friendship Village of South Hills, we provide a rich variety of wellness programs and social gatherings so our Assisted Living and Memory Care residents receive more than just care and support - they experience a lifestyle of distinction. And with brand-new apartments and amenities, you can see why so many residents and families call us home.
To find out more or to schedule a tour, call 724-204-5222
ASSISTED LIVING:
MEMORY CARE:
HEAR FROM OUR RESIDENTS 1296 Boyce Road | Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care | Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation AL License #450770 | SNF License #320102 FRIENDSHIPVILLAGEPA.COM
Jo n e tt e Sh an ah an
R E A L E STAT E AG E N T & C E RT I F I E D H O M E STAG ER
Get ready to travel
E l evate th e s a le of you r ho me to n ew he ights.
Start your trip with a maintenance check Tires | Oil | Inspection | Brakes | Alignment All maintenance and repair services Family Owned Since 1941
Calabro Tire & Auto Service COM PASS RE | THE JEN N IF ER SO LO M O N T EA M 412. 40 7.572 0 o ffice 412. 60 6.7785 ce ll jonettere alestate@gmail.co m WWW.SOLDBYSHANAHAN.CO M
(412) 221-4300 www.calabrotire.com 1476 Bower Hill Rd. Hours of Operation: Mon–Fri 8:00am–5:00pm; Sat 8am–noon Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
7
Walking in Our Clients’ Shoes Four Big Things We Learned from Our Personal Home Renovation. Geoff and Christine McQueen
We’ve spent years helping people achieve their dream homes, and last year it was our turn. We had the fun — and challenging opportunity — to renovate our own home. You might think for a couple who runs their own design/build firm, that would be easy.
But a home renovation, even when you’re thrilled to be improving your space, isn’t easy. The personal space where you’re living your life and raising your kids is unavoidably disrupted. Your home is opened up to craftsmen, noise, dust and those inevitable moments where things don’t go exactly as planned. We’ve always had empathy for our clients and focus on smoothly and transparently walking them through the whole process. But after spending many months being a client ourselves, we’re now bringing a whole new level of understanding and customer service to our company. We’ve established new positions so that the families who choose to work with us have the easiest, best experience possible! Here’s what we’ve learned from our personal deep dive into the client experience: 1. We give clients even more time to make design decisions. In the past, we’ve often asked clients to make all their design decisions in just a few meetings. It’s practical, helps the project move along faster and it could sound like fun to plan an entire space during one or two creative sessions. 8
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
We don’t do that anymore, because no matter how many samples and photos you look at and how much expert advice you get, it’s hard to select light fixtures that go with the faucet and also go with the hardware and look great with the countertops and floor stain you’ve chosen — all at once. When a client tries to do that, their stress level rises. They’re thinking, “OK, this is a big investment. We’re going to do this one time. We want to do it right so that we love it for years to come.” We get that, now more than ever. So, we’ve learned to give our clients enough time to get comfortable with all the design choices they make. We give them the grace and space to choose carefully — and to delay some choices or change their minds during the early part of the process. 2. We help our clients talk to us. We’ve always sought feedback throughout each project. But, until we became the client, we didn’t realize how hard it can be to say, “this tile doesn’t look right” or “this isn’t coming out quite the way I expected.” Our clients are wonderful people. When things aren’t going perfectly on a project, it can be uncomfortable for them to say that. So, we’re more proactive now. We ask more questions, and we’ve created two new positions: a director of pre-construction (with a construction and design background) and a director of construction, whose entire job is customer service. When he regularly checks in with a client, they’re comfortable speaking freely. He’s not the project manager, so they’re not offending the person who comes into their house every day when giving honest feedback. Our renovation experience even inspired us to make a few changes in the subcontractors we work with, so that we know everyone connected with our jobs brings the same respect for clients and the same precision and effort that we do. We’re a growing company, so the two of us can’t be everywhere. That means it’s imperative that we hire and work with the absolute best in town and not settle for anything less.
In our pursuit of finishing stronger than we started, we remain humbled by the opportunities to learn, grow and deliver exceptional results for our clients in every step of their home transformation journey. n
3. We have more empathy than ever. We’ve always told clients that renovation projects can be stressful. But we discovered how emotional it can truly be when we did it ourselves. Even if you’re really excited about how beautiful your home will look in the end, there are plenty of challenging moments along the way. We chose to move out temporarily, just like a percentage of our clients do during a big project. But there was still a period of time when we were back in our home as the job was winding down. It’s tough, and living through that process helped us add a layer of empathy to everything we do. 4. The way the job ends is what the client will remember. This may be the biggest piece of the puzzle. We learned how important it is to manage the clients’ expectations and communicate — even over-communicate — all the way through to the end of a job. Here’s why: Your job will be beautiful. Most of the project may have gone really well. But as a project wraps up, those final moments will stay with the homeowner.
To learn more, visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com or visit our social channels to view our latest projects.
Spring 2024
Photography: Erin Kelly UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
9
CELEBRATION
• Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth • IV Office Anesthesia
Dr. Mohammed Khan DDS, MD, USC Parent
• Serving Upper St. Clair & Surrounding Communities • Most Insurances Accepted
(724) 745-3333 1200 Ashwood Dr #1204, Canonsburg, PA 15317
3riversoralsurgery.com
Complimentary Implant Consultation by Mentioning this Ad
Dental Implants Are Quick, Easy and Affordable Dr. Mohammed Khan, DDS, MD, USC resident and parent
Get the smile of your dreams in as little as two to four weeks! As you look forward to upcoming special celebrations, it is natural to think about how your smile will look. If you have missing, broken or damaged teeth, you may be very worried about smiling and being photographed. Are you ready to give a big smile? If not, consider dental implants. Today’s dental implants are much different than they were a few years ago, and thanks to modern technology, getting implants is quicker and easier than it has ever been. They are the best option for replacing missing or severely damaged teeth as they are exceptionally durable and function just like your original teeth. And with the beautiful results, you will never be self-conscious about your smile again. Dental implants are placed in the bone using a relatively pain-free procedure in the oral surgeon’s office. The surgeon will give the bones and gum a brief time to heal, and many patients receive temporary replacement teeth the same day that the implant is placed. After healing, your oral surgeon attaches an abutment to the implant; then your dentist attaches a custom crown to replace the tooth. The entire implant process usually takes only about two to three appointments after any extractions.
10
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
However, after your initial consultation, the doctor will map out a clear process and the exact timing varies based on your needs. For patients who need to replace many teeth, have more severe gum disease or have significant bone loss, All-On-X implants are a great option. All-On-X implants, also known as a Full Arch Restoration, involve the placement of multiple dental implants on each jaw. Then a complete set of permanent looking and feeling replacement teeth are attached at these secure points. With these implants, you do not need to worry about your artificial teeth falling out, causing gum pain, pinching or other challenges associated with traditional full dentures.
Marc before
Marc after
CELEBRATION
All natural ingredients, no artificial dyes Free local delivery to Upper St. Clair residents Family owned Upper St. Clair business Implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth, as they are exceptionally durable. They are worth the extra visit to get such a beautiful result that functions just like your original teeth. Our patients rave about how natural they look and love their results. Some patients worry about the cost of implants. However, implants have become more affordable due to the latest technology, and many insurance plans offer partial coverage towards implant treatment plans. After your initial consultation, our team can submit claims to your insurance for pre-authorization, and then provide you with detailed costs and coverage. Also, our practice offers two types of financing that can provide you with affordable payment plans. These simple finance options can help you get the treatment you need now, with low monthly payments. Today’s dental implants are quick, easy and affordable. Let Three Rivers Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Canonsburg give you the smile you deserve! n To learn more about implants, see patient videos and more, visit 3riversoralsurgery.com/dental-implants-pittsburgh/ or scan the QR code. See ad on page 10.
y sor Sen gh & Dou ities iv Act
wedontplaydough.com @wedontplaydough Use promo code USCTODAY10 for 10% off Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
11
CELEBRATION
Celebrating a Child’s Imagination Lauren Iannacchione, Owner, Really Dough
Let’s take a moment to celebrate imagination. Whether your children are young or old, we can all relate to this magical ability children have to turn something ordinary into something extraordinary. This ability happens during free play. In today’s busy, high-tech world, it’s easy to replace free play with phones, tablets, televisions and computers. While these technologies can have great benefits, they may not be providing our children with some valuable skills. We aspire for our children to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, effective decision makers and show empathy towards others. These qualities cannot be given to our children, they must be learned. Play is the best time for our children to learn. How can a child learn these qualities during free play? When a child is given the independence to play how they see fit, they are provided with a chance to learn about themselves and their environment. The more free play a child has, the more exposure they have to new situations. Using their previous experiences as a guide, they can overcome obstacles that arise during new situations. These experiences can produce critical thinking skills, problem solving abilities, effective decision making and self-confidence. When free play occurs in groups of two or more, children can develop social skills and learn to identify the emotions of others. This awareness of other’s feelings can lead to empathy. Imagination is the foundation of free play. Free play can benefit children’s development by learning about themselves, how to interact with others and building essential skills. Celebrating children’s imagination by encouraging free play is a gift to us all. n 12
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
See ad on page 11.
YEARS
TODAY Celebrates 30 Years of Publication
The following individuals have served TODAY as editors-in-chief, managing editors, associate editors, advertising and marketing executives, office managers, proofreaders, photographers, graphic designers and steering committee members. Their dedication and countless hours of hard work show in each and every issue of the magazine. Erin Gibson Allen, Nancy Barnard, Nancy Beaulieu, Sarah Beitler, Harla Brown, Laurie Buker, Kathy Christie, Dorothy Clark, Colleen DeMarco, Lynn Dempsey, Susan Depe, Cherie Dixon, Trish Donlon, Linda Dudzinski, Paul Fox, Alison Hess, Neena Jacob-John, Cindy Kane, Terry Kish, AnneMarie Kopach, Mark Mansfield, Teri McMinn, Dawn McQuillen, Tina Mongomery, Mary Etta Nader, Alex Pepke, Cathie Scudiero, Kathleen Slenchak, Ginny Stempkowski, Julie Sweet, Lauren Trocano, Kerry Turner, Suzanne Vernon, Laura Whitcomb and Margaret Yerkes.
TODAY staff
The year was 1994. Steven Spielberg won his first Oscar for “Schindler’s List,” Jeff Bezos founded Amazon, the sitcom “Friends” premiered and the first issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY was published! Visionary leaders, including former Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Pope and former Township Manager Douglas Watkins, took the initial risk of starting the TODAY project, sharing in partnership the resources required to produce such a meaningful communication outlet for its residents. Most community publications are managed by an outside for-profit organization or the municipal authority, but TODAY was a collaborative effort between the Township and School District to promote and recognize those who live and work here. The magazine is mostly funded by local businesses, individual professionals and associations who show their loyalty and offer their support for USC and its residents. TODAY encourages you to support these businesses and organizations who care so much about our community. Are you celebrating your 30th birthday this year? For three decades, this publication has remained steadfast to its Did you get married in 1994? original mission of providing its residents with quality information, accomplishing this with dedicated volunteers. Hundreds of volunteers Finally shoot 30 on nine-holes at the golf course? — ages five to over 80, including writers, poets, artists and photogTODAY wants to recognize your special “30” events raphers — have contributed to TODAY in various ways, producing stories and visuals that inform, entertain and often touch our hearts. as we celebrate our 30th anniversary! Email a brief They are truly the lifeblood of this publication! description about what you are celebrating this year in As TODAY celebrates its 30th anniversary, we’d like you, our read- the body of the email to usctoday@usctoday.org, with ers, to join in the celebration, too! Watch for information in this and “Celebrating 30” in the subject line. Original, high-resolution future issues about ways to join us as we commemorate this special digital photos of at least 300 dpi are also welcome! milestone. n Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
13
Stellar Senior Awardees Congratulations to the Oakland Catholic and Upper St. Clair High School seniors who merited the St. Joan of ARC award at the 60th Medallion Ball, sponsored annually by St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind. Embracing opportunities, each awardee realized more than 150 hours of community service. Their stellar leadership is all about sacrifice. During their journey, even the smallest task made an authentic difference to the lives of people and organizations in need. You do not have to bring about world peace to change someone’s life. Honorees value each person as unique within their volunteer community. The following are but a few of the organizations where honorees volunteered this year. The Resurrection Parish Religious Education for Youth welcomes children and teens, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Down Syndrome. Faith formation includes sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. The South Hills Splash Team, Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics, welcomes Special Olympians (age 7 and up). Its mission statement is: “To provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and
participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.” To volunteer is a refreshing escape from day-to-day routines. In 2024, share your most valuable skills: compassion, an open mind and willingness to do whatever. Why not connect with an act of kindness? An elderly or housebound neighbor certainly would appreciate festive greeting cards. Need more exercise? Enhancing a green space affords a variety of health benefits by promoting physical activity, appreciating Mother Nature and the occasion of community connection. Imagine a world where everyone contributes to the greater good. How different our world would be. Embrace 2024 with an open heart and fierce spirit! TODAY applauds these 15 impressive 2023 Medallion Honorees. Superstar service with a smile; these ladies go the extra mile. Championing that success are loving families, friends, educators, clerics and the inclusive community of Upper St. Clair. Honoree escorts, in alphabetical order, included Greg Boughner, Whitten Burns, George Carnes, Andrew Chakos, Bryan Deep, Francis Funaro, Nathaniel Grabowski, Ian Kirk, Adam Levin, Hunter Maher, William Manning, Luke McDonough, Evan Morris, John Tripodes and Andrew Wallander. n Article courtesy of Mary Lynne Spazok. Since 1997, Mary Lynne has proudly showcased hundreds of Medallion Ball honorees throughout the pages of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank her for her continued commitment to this endeavor. Photos generously provided by Maxine McGough of Ron Richards Photography.
Isabella Allsopp
Grace Atencio
Julia Cedar
Willow Conley
Gabrielle Deep
Meghan Ghise
Chloe Kerestesi
Janelle Knierim
Katerina Kucherawy
Tomasina Manning
Giovanna Marasco
Lydia Rhodes
Katherine Smith
Evangeline Sullivan
Ella Zegarelli
14
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
USC Podcaster Recruits Local Talent
Frank and Adina Schiffman (photo by Arindam Sen)
Josh McIntyre had a role in “Not by Design.”
Tom DeSantis was featured in “Don’t Judge a Man by His Stutter” and “Go Fly a Kite.”
After a day of marketing water treatment chemicals for a Fortune 500 company, Frank Schiffman enters his Wellington Woods recording studio (formerly his third-floor closet) to pursue a passion, chronicling his most memorable life experiences through podcasting. Seated in front of a microphone, he transforms ironic, humorous and relatable short stories into a podcast series entitled “OutOf-Place.” Each story bursts to life as Frank narrates, imitating character voices and spicing scenes with vivid background music and sound effects. Less than three years ago, Schiffman knew nothing about using software for recording his stories or posting them on platforms for listeners. Now, his stories have been downloaded by his listeners more than 3000 times! And he hopes to increase that number. “When I was a kid, I wanted to be an entertainer, but never pursued it,” says Schiffman. Instead, he found ways to introduce his self-honed acting skills and penchant for all things creative, while serving his customers over a 45-year marketing career. He’s written, produced and acted in training films and one-man live training shows, as well as being a motivational speaker. “Once I placed an elephant outside of Jacob Javits Center in New York City to promote a new PPG eyeglass lens product as a Big Idea. I almost got arrested! I’m a showman at heart,” he adds.
Telling tales about his unusual life events comes naturally to this native Pittsburgher. “I am not one of those guys who tells the same scenario over and over again. At least not yet,” he laughingly shares. “I like to push the envelope, doing things I think are unconventional, effective and memorable.” After Schiffman recorded his first several episodes as a soloist, mimicking accents, expressions and mannerisms to differentiate all of the stories’ characters, he realized it was time to incorporate additional voices. And where better to find new talent than his own backyard of Upper St. Clair! John Beggy, Tom DeSantis, David Floyd, Tom Higgins, Gary Hoyson, Pedro Maiz, Kristen and Josh McIntyre, Dave Sirota and Christine Waller are just the beginning of USC Out-of-Place’s podcast participants. For the antidotes of Schiffman’s childhood
years, younger residents Grayson Lepley, Emery McIntyre, Violet Regan, Cody Schroeck, Max Vestel and the kids of USC’s Wellington Woods neighborhood also had their roles. Whose voices can you expect to hear from next? Maybe yours! Contact Out-ofPlace’s marketing manager Adina Schiffman (adina.schiffman@out-of-place.com) if you would like to be in a future recording. Until then, happy listening! n
Spring 2024
The Out-Of-Place series currently has 12 stories available on Apple, Spotify, Google and Stitcher podcast platforms. You can also check out their website at www.outofplacepodcasts.com.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
15
From the Mouths of Babes Tom Yochum
Beginnings are inherently difficult. The blank canvas, the blinking cursor — adversaries that can threaten to overwhelm even the most seasoned artists. And yet new undertakings are also, by nature, paradoxical, for anything is possible in what’s unbegun. Such is the ambivalence that often surrounds New Year’s resolutions; our renewed optimism against an attempt to banish past defeats. This year will be different: notebooks filled, passions explored and weight lost! Alas, the road to Weight Watchers is paved with good intentions. Even the unassuming, yet judgmental, dictionary directs us to regret on the path from reflection to reinvention. Well, I wasn’t going to succumb to old habits in 2024. There’d be no laundry list of planned changes this year. Age (ahem, experience) had brought wisdom, along with the desire to be in bed by 11 p.m. on NYE. So, as I retired to my long winter’s nap that evening, no visions of sugarplums (forbidden on keto!) danced in my head, only a singular resolution: more time with the kids. And, because, by law, my wife and I are largely responsible for their care at all hours of the day, this was a resolution I’d be sure to keep. In all sincerity, this was my true desire. Not mere time, however; quality time! Board games, make believe, trips to the museum. We’d go all in on creative play, a “new” concept meant to encourage imagination and unplugged solutions to boredom. It’s what used to be known as childhood, before the advent of Nintendo and iPads. This year the Yochums had a new motto: less FaceTime and more face time! We’re a few months in and I can report some success, laced with a tinge of irony. How can I record all my progress (or what my wife refers to as the cute things they’re doing and saying) without constant access to my phone? In any given week, I capture more moments of my kids than exist of all four of my grandparents’ lives combined. And while I share the occasional photo, I’ve never been inclined to post those seemingly apocryphal musings that some claim their kids have uttered. Maybe you’ve seen examples. If social media is to be believed, inside every child is a tiny philosopher king ready to tackle myriad social ills. Like, “My son just looked at me with tears in his eyes and asked ‘Mommy, if something can be reused, why do the big people call it trash?’” Really? Was this the same ecowarrior who flushed 12 separate Legos down the toilet last week? Or, “The news was on and my daughter literally screamed ‘why did people vote for the mean man who does bad things!’” Literally, that never happened. Maybe it did, who knows? I guess my five-year-old just isn’t very civic-minded, because her thoughts turn more toward unicorn poop than the Electoral College. Even though my girls aren’t often opining on the Supreme Court, our quality time together has yielded a few gems they’ve actually said of late. If your own resolutions have stalled out, maybe their words can offer some guidance. So here is some inspiration, from the mouths of babes… We’ll begin with subjects that, for them, are of endless fascination, if not necessarily practice: health and hygiene. My kindergartner recently told me that she had a “mold.” “A mold?” I asked, somewhat worried about our occasionally lax adherence to bath night. “Yes. Our whole family has molds. Daddy has a LOT of molds!” Dear reader, I shower daily…and almost always dry off! After 16
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Spending more time with the kids in 2024
some follow-up questions, I learned that what I actually have a lot of is moles! In truth, I already knew this, but it was so sweet to get confirmation from our budding dermatologist. So, instead of dismaying at the roadmap that is my back, I’m passing this on to you as a reminder to get screened. If you call now, you can probably snag their earliest available appointment in mid-August. Perfect timing, really. Just imagine how moldy you’ll be after spending all summer by the pool! While you’re at it, make sure your semi-annual dental checkup is booked. Upon asking my daughter one evening why she was incessantly picking at her teeth, she casually replied, “I got some groceries stuck in there.” Synonyms are wild in her world. Food = groceries. You’ll of course want to brush and floss in anticipation of your visit, but most of the professionals in our area are wellequipped to handle plaque, tartar and grocery build-up. With your teeth scrubbed and mold scraped, it’s a good time of year to check in on your mental well-being. Our girls were recently staying the night at my in-laws and began fighting over use of the same toy. It’s inevitable, really, when each of them has only but a precious 100 toys. Ellis, who had just turned three, began to sob. My father-in-law reprimanded her sister, and then advised her that crying doesn’t help. She caught her breath and insisted, “Yes it do!” Fully recovered, and the offense seemingly forgotten, it would appear she was right. We’re conditioned in adulthood to bottle our emotions, but sometimes a good cry “do help!” This is the year to get in touch with your feelings: at work, family gatherings or maybe the Target self-checkout after a particularly long day. Unlocking your toddler emotional response can help weather all manner of daily crises, from being a “wittle” sleepy to getting the exact thing you just asked for. Maybe this is the year for Black and gold hair! a makeover. Freshen up the
Frannie isn’t happy about being on the NOT-ty List.
Let your creativity shine in 2024.
wardrobe. Try out a new ’do, or just change up the color. My wife did this recently and her newfound blonde tresses did not go unnoticed. I was at the pediatrician’s not long after and the nurse complimented Frances’s chestnut locks. “It’s the same as my dad’s and sister’s,” she replied. “Oh yeah, what color is your mom’s?” asked the nurse. “Black and gold,” Frannie revealed. “Wow, very Pittsburgh!” said the nurse, amused. Fran felt the need for a full disclosure: “Well, first it was black and then she painted it yellow.” You can turn heads and support the local sports teams. New year, new Yinz! Some of your goals might go beyond such skin, or follicle, deep concerns. A new hobby, perhaps? Is there a budding artist within? Don’t rush your genius. Frannie is only five, but manages to moonlight as a life coach. She recently spied her sister scribbling aimlessly on a piece of paper. After modeling Monet’s “crayon within the lines” technique, she advised, “Always take your time with masterpieces if you want them to look beautiful!” Ellis was unfazed and seems to gravitate more toward Pollock. Beauty is in the eye of the creator. Whatever your approach, let your creativity shine in 2024! If the calendar’s turn has you looking outward, pondering life’s biggest mysteries, we’ve got you covered. Just after the new year, we were driving past a church when the girls spotted workers taking down the creche, which led them into a thought-provoking spiritual discussion. A question arose as to where baby Jesus goes after his birthday. Frannie took the lead: “He goes up to Heaven with his friends.” Misunderstanding, Ellis was delighted with her own interpretation, “Yes, he go up to Kevin, from ‘Home Alone!’” So, try to be good to one another this year and it might lead toward an eternal reward, one that involves all of your loved ones, including those from Disney+. I can’t speak to what happens if you aren’t nice. Even the pre-resolution holidays brought a parade of malapropisms that betray wisdom. When I told Ellis she needed to write a letter to Santa, she replied, “OK, I do C!” Quite the literalist interpretation. I’m not sure what the big guy would have done with so little to go on, but in a “C” of long-winded missives you’d think he’d appreciate her concision. Possibly a coloring book, but
maybe a car! Keep it simple this year and good things will follow. Eliminate what’s not serving you. No one will have any idea what you’re talking about, but at least you’ll stand out. Amidst another squabble that’s been lost to time, Ellis informed us that “Frannie on the NOT-ty List. That because she NOT nice!” I couldn’t believe it! This was the same Frances who we’d schooled on the idea that sharing is caring. This quickly became one of her favorite maxims to trot out, but only when she wanted something she didn’t have. Filtered through Frannie’s burgeoning Pittsburgh-ese, it became “Remember: Sharon is Karen!” Her take sounded more like a twisted soap opera reveal, but the sentiment remained. Sharon is Karen — words to live by this year. Don’t fret that you’re just getting these pearls of wisdom now. As George Eliot once opined, “It’s never too late to be who you might have been.” She undoubtedly meant March; even three months in isn’t too late for a change. Or, just throw the resolutions out the window and spend some time with the ones you love. As winter break drew to a close, I was attempting to get the girls back into school mode by explaining the change from 2023 to 2024. Satisfied that the tutorial had sunk in, I asked, “Okay then, what year is it?” “Happy New Year!” they both shouted. Happy New Year, indeed. Hope it’s your best one yet. n
Happy New Year!
Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
17
Coach’s Corner
Separating Fact from Fiction with Mike Quealy Coach Jim Render Have you ever had a friend or colleague — or in my case, a former player — that you thought you knew pretty well, only to be surprised or shocked to learn of some of his achievements? Furthermore, he thinks what he has experienced or accomplished is rather routine, while you think it should be written about in a magazine like TODAY. Keeping this in mind, I would like to once again write about one of my former players who has made us proud. For the record, Mike Quealy, USCHS class of 1990, continues to make us proud. Recently when Mike and I sat down for lunch to chat about everything from football to the bridal dance at his wedding, he told me of a “game” he’s played at introductory ice breaking sessions with new friends or new work associates. When it is your turn, you are instructed to reveal two true facts about yourself, as well as one lie. At this point, the newcomers try and decipher facts from fiction. Naturally, I asked Mike for his contributions to the introductory process. So, if you would like to play along, the following are Mike’s entries. (A) I was a golf caddy for Willie Nelson when I was 12 years old, (B) I was a substitute drummer for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra when I was a senior in high school, and (C) I hit a baseball off the green monster at Fenway Park in Boston when I was a freshman at Harvard. By the way, I bat left-handed which is opposite from the green monster. If you guessed A and C to be factual truths and B to be a lie, you are well on your way to knowing Mike Quealy. I’ll continue with some additional facts and truths about Mike’s athletic career at Upper St. Clair High School, but I might try to sneak in a lie or an embellishment about Mike, the athlete. He was a starter on our football team for two-and-a-half years, and a starter on both the basketball and baseball teams during his junior and senior years. Upper St. Clair won the WPIAL football championship in both 1988 and 1989 (his junior and senior years). We won 15 games in 1989, which included a Pennsylvania state championship. In 1988, Mike had 11 interceptions, a school record. In 1989, he had eight more interceptions, including three in the WPIAL championship game at Three Rivers Stadium. He also scored twice in that game via a run and a pass reception. Mike was the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Athlete of the Week following that game. He thought I should mention that teammates Doug Whaley and Kevin Orie were also athletes of the week, and that classmates David Klasnick for hockey and Bobby Johnson for soccer each earned that same honor during their senior year. Additionally, Mike was selected a first-team All-Conference defensive back in 1988 and 1989. Although he has many memories of his football accomplishments, Mike said he fondly remembers sitting on the field at Three Rivers Stadium soaking up the memories of what had just taken place. USC baseball coach, Jerry Malarkey, added that Mike was All-Section as well as a Post-Gazette South All Star. He hit .393 18
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Mike is a happy guy following a USC-winning game.
and led the team with 28 RBI and 29 runs scored. He and Kevin Orie each had six home runs. Coach Malarkey stated that Mike was elected a captain his senior season and that his quiet leadership was evident in his strong work ethic and positive attitude. He concluded that Mike was an exceptional teammate and that it was an honor coaching him. In regard to truth, lies and embellishment, the previous facts about Mike’s high school accomplishments are all true! For the record, he was also a member of the National Honor Society. What does an outstanding student-athlete do after graduating from a great college preparatory high school like Upper St. Clair? If you are Mike Quealy, you head to an Ivy League institution for another, even greater challenge. Mike was a freshman at Harvard in the fall of 1990. Athletics were not a high priority, but he did make contributions to both the baseball and football teams during part of his four-year tenure. The championships he was accustomed to at USC were not prevalent at Harvard. He remarked that his tight group of friends, many of whom are now very successful, were a big highlight of his time at Harvard. Mike graduated with honors in the spring of 1994, moved back to Pittsburgh and entered graduate school at Duquesne University. As part of his graduate program at Duquesne, Mike took a one-year internship teaching history at Mt. Lebanon High School. Upon completing that internship, he secured a long-term substitute position at his alma mater, Upper St. Clair High School, for one semester. Although he was passionate about teaching and working with students, Mike decided to embark on a career change, due in part to the lack of available teaching opportunities. He moved to North Carolina in 1998 to work for Okuma America, a Japanese manufacturing company, as a consultant for process improvement. Seeing the expansion of the internet, Mike recognized the growth potential in the information technology industry and made
The Quealy family (l/r) - Ben, Melissa, Mike and Harper
Melissa and Mike
A family group photo taken after the WPIAL championship in 1989. Jimbo is on the right.
another move, this time to Washington D.C., to capitalize on that industry’s future growth. Working as a program manager at Verizon, Inc., Mike coordinated communication for the federal government after natural disasters and other emergencies. Not long after Sept. 11, 2001, Mike began running the external-facing website for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). After about eight years working with Verizon, Mike took a job as the director of operations for BlueWater Federal Solutions. In that capacity, he managed operations for about $65 million in federal contracts, which included managing over 140 geographically dispersed employees across 10 different states. While he enjoyed being at BlueWater, the long days and weekend work made work and home life hard to balance. In 2017, seeing an opportunity to move back to the Pittsburgh area and be closer to family, Mike took a job with PNC Bank as a director for quality engineering, where he streamlined existing resources and reduced reliance on contractors, saving the company more than $3.5 million annually. Since 2021, he has continued his career at Federated (Investors) Hermes as the director of cloud and user computing. To s u m m a rize his work life in simple terms, Mike knows the Thirty-five years later, Mike looks much the same basics in the tech as he did in high school! world, but managing people is his strength. As an athlete, he was the guy who wanted the ball in a crucial situation. As a people manager, he’s
still the person who can be counted on to solve problems. He wants his people to attack and solve rather than slow down and defend. My kind of guy! Let’s play another game of truth or lies. (A) Mike was invited to the White House by President George W. Bush, who was promoting a program called Citizens Corp, a homegrown version of the Peace Corps, (B) Mike spent two months in China working with Duquesne University students while he was in graduate school, and (C) He spent 9/11 at Mt. Weather, an emergency operation center operated by FEMA. Members of Congress and the administration were brought there for security reasons during the crisis. Let’s just skip the lie for this version — all of the above are true for this guy who thinks his life has been quiet and routine. Here is another attempt at truth or lies. (A) Mike has a mom named Pinky and (B) a sister named Frankie, (C) a dad named Jim, and (D) a younger brother named Jimbo. All are true except there is no sister named Frankie. Jim and Pinky live in Upper St. Clair and Jimbo resides in Boston. Mike and his wife, Melissa, were married in 2007. They met while playing softball at the Ellipse, a park across the street from the White House, and started talking when one of the presidential helicopters landed on the field during the game. (Melissa edited this article for clarity and accuracy for the period they worked and lived in D.C. Thank you for your efforts!) They have a son, Ben (12), and a daughter, Harper (11). A large friendly dog, Otis, helps round out a happy home. As a founding member of the USC Halls of Fame and the former chairman of the athletic HOF, I feel very qualified in making these concluding observations about Mike Quealy. He is more than qualified to be in the athletic Hall of Fame. Examine what he has done, for example, on the football field (11 interceptions in one year) and see if that has been or will be duplicated. His scholastic accomplishments, along with what he has done in governmental work as well as the private sector, make him qualified for the academic HOF. On the other hand, he cannot sing or act. He was petrified to do the bridal dance at his wedding, and 10 dance lessons were of no help. I do not recommend him for induction into the arts HOF. I do recommend him for his quality of life and accomplishments. n Spring 2024
Patty Meers broker
Selling Pittsburgh for Over 35 Years
LET MY EXPERIENCE REPRESENT YOU
• Buyer’s Agent • Seller’s Agent • New Construction • Land Sales • Residential Leasing • Relocation PattyMeersThomas@gmail.com C: 412-398-5181 | O: 724-731-0100
Wellington REAL
ESTATE
WellingtonRealEstatePA.com
www.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
19
State Representative Natalie Mihalek
40th Legislative District 1121 Boyce Road, Suite 2200A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15241
724-942-2045 www.repmihalek.com Facebook.com/RepMihalek
If You are What You Eat, Don’t You Want to Be Something You Can Pronounce? State Rep. Natalie Mihalek
Settling into my mid-40s has made me aware of the foods I put into my body. Gone are the days when I could have a doughnut and a large coffee before work and feel energized for the morning. It seems that overnight, the foods that I enjoyed in my younger days now make me feel sluggish and tired. Making different food choices was one thing, but I was determined to learn more about how our foods impact us. Based on hours of research and much to the chagrin of my three children, I soon realized that there are chemicals in our food that really have no business being there. It started off as an attempt to limit carbohydrates, fats and sugars. But soon, I discovered that I had no idea what most of the ingredients were in the food that I was feeding my family. My questions were numerous. If I couldn’t pronounce it, should I be eating it? Why did the supposedly healthier options have dozens of chemical ingredients? And what exactly were these chemicals anyway?
State Representative Dan Miller
Office of the House Democratic Majority Whip
I did some digging and the more I discovered, the more concerned I became. Without a chemistry degree and very little recollection of high school science classes, I began contacting doctors, health experts and researchers to learn more. My concern became anger. Some of the more commonly used ingredients found in hundreds, if not thousands, of products on grocery store shelves are also some of the more dangerous. They include Red Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 40, Blue Dye No. 1, Yellow Dye No. 5, brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, titanium dioxide, butylated hydroxytoluene, sodium benzoate, azodicarbonamide and acesulfame potassium. I dare you to say that last one 10 times. Picking on Red Dye No. 3, one that I can actually pronounce, it has been found to increase hyperactivity in children, carries risks to brain development and has been linked to cancer. In fact, in 1990, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that Red Dye No. 3 was a carcinogen and actually banned its use in cosmetics and skincare products.
Harrisburg Office 121 Main Capitol, Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 783-1850
Mt. Lebanon Office 650 Washington Road, Suite 102 Pittsburgh, PA 15234 (412) 343-3870
2024 Disability & Mental Health Summit Set for April 18 and 19
As you may know, for the last 10 years, my office has hosted an annual Disability & Mental Health Summit here in the Pittsburgh region. This is our marquee event — one which takes months of planning with community partners and exhibitors to bring together. I’m excited that our 11th annual summit this year will take place over two days, April 18 and 19, allowing more individuals, families and organizations to attend. When we’re planning the summit, we truly try to incorporate something for everyone — whether you’re a self-advocate, someone who works in a field related to these topics or someone who has a family member with a disability or mental illness. This year, we are back with our biggest, and we hope best summit since the pandemic. Once again returning to the Beth El Congregation of the South Hills on Cochran Road, we will have two resource fairs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., each featuring a range of organizations related to disability and mental health, with over a dozen informational sessions, each of which has a different 20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
focus, and two bipartisan, bicameral legislative panels. On Thursday evening, our programming will focus on the needs of transition-age youth with disabilities, which will include a panel discussion with self-advocates and parents and a special evening resource fair featuring organizations that support and engage these young people as they chart their paths after leaving high school. You can find information and details about the 2024 Disability & Mental Health Summit online at DisabilitySummit.com. The event is free to attend and open to the public. One of the things we have learned over the last decade is that these two topics impact so many people in our communities. Our friends, our loved ones, our coworkers — everyone knows someone who is impacted. And while society as a whole has gotten better about breaking down the stigma in talking about these topics, we still have a long way to go. Over the years, the summit has, in a way, become its own community, a place where it is safe to talk about issues or problems without being judged, to simply associate with other people or to find a helping hand. The summit is designed not just to help families or individuals,
But guess what? We’re still eating it! Thousands of products still contain this toxic ingredient and are being sold in a store near you. For whatever reason, the FDA has never prohibited its use in food, despite promises to do so. Many of the other ingredients I listed are linked to serious health issues, including heart and liver problems, reproductive issues, nervous system damage, behavioral problems in adolescents and an increased risk of cancer. Despite the toxicity of many of these ingredients, they remain perfectly legal in our food supply. If our goal is a healthier diet, it’s apparent that fats and sugars are not nearly as much of a concern as finding foods that don’t have toxic chemicals. You may be wondering why on earth your state representative is talking about a healthy diet. Doesn’t she have bills to pass? I sure do. And this will be one of them. I am currently working on a piece of legislation to eliminate several of these toxic ingredients from our food supply. Not only do I want to take the steps necessary to clean up our foods, I also want to create public awareness around this topic. I encourage everyone to read the labels, do their homework and make the best choices for you and your family. n
but also professionals who work in these fields as well. We are thrilled to offer continuing education credits for teachers, lawyers, social workers and certified rehabilitation counselors, as our session presenters bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, as well as the latest news and trends to their talks. I am proud to offer this opportunity to our community and believe that this year’s summit will be a showcase for the exemplary individuals and organizations that call our region home. Visit DisabilitySummit.com for the latest information and updates as we get ready for the 11th annual Disability & Mental Health Summit. I hope you will join us! n
RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE District Court 05-2-20 Hiras Professional Building Office: 412-835-1661 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Fax: 412-835-4060 Bethel Park, PA 15102
Home Improvement Protection Tips for Protecting You and Your Family When It Comes to Home Improvements.
With the arrival of spring, many homeowners are contemplating improvement projects, such as a new driveway, landscaping or a deck. However, you should always be careful when selecting a contractor, as fraud occurs with unfortunate frequency in the home improvement industry. Several years ago, Pennsylvania enacted the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) to set minimum standards for home improvement contractors and required, in part, that they be licensed, disclose insurance information and use contracts in conformity with the new law. Despite enactment of the HICPA, several contractors that ignore the law continue to operate illegally, ultimately ending up as defendants before me, with homeowner victims who lost significant sums of money for promises to do work that was never completed. While not an exhaustive list, here are a few basic actions you can take to protect yourself from fraudulent contractors: 1. Ask for the contractor’s PA license number. Check them out online at the Attorney General’s website: hicsearch.attorneygeneral.gov/. 2. Ask for a certificate of insurance showing the contractor carries liability and worker’s compensation coverage. The certificate should be addressed to you and will confirm the coverage and policy limits the contractor carries, as well as the effective date of the policy. I advise strongly against working with a contractor that refuses to provide a valid certificate of insurance, and always call the insurance company to verify coverage. 3. Ask for references and call the references. When speaking with the references, be sure to ask what work was done for them, how long it took and if there were any problems. Contractor supplied references can be suspect, as they may be friends or relatives of the contractor posing as customers. Creatively ask questions to make sure they are a legitimate reference. Pointed questions such as “What year and month did they do the work?” and “What other contractors did you consider before choosing this one?” will help you determine the credibility of the references. 4. Never pay by cash — check or credit card only. The hallmark of a potential fraudster is insistence on being paid only in cash or promising a “too good to be true” price if paid in cash up front. 5. It is always a good idea to have a written contract/agreement when dealing with contractors. Be sure to obtain a valid address and phone number. Make sure if there are any changes to be made to the original contract/agreement that you sign off and approve any change orders in writing. 6. In most cases, the contractor will contact your local township or municipality to see if any permits are needed. Being proactive to check on your own will help avoid any code violations later down the road. 7. Documenting the progress of the job is extremely helpful. Taking photos/ videos of the before, during and after stages can assist in the event there are any discrepancies regarding the work being done. Also, writing down any concerns or questions after each day to discuss with the contractor can help the project progress more smoothly. 8. Never be afraid to consult an attorney before signing any home improvement contract. The contract should conform to the HICPA guidelines as well as Pennsylvania consumer protection statutes. The investment of working with an attorney is a small expense compared to having to pay an attorney to litigate against the contractor. Every matter is unique, and this information is provided from my general experience as a judge. You should contact a local attorney if you have a legal issue or question to obtain advice specific to your situation. n Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
21
Jay Lynch
For the past 30 years, TODAY has been reporting on the diligent work and impressive results of community volunteers. Bighearted people who “look out for others” make our community great. However, sometimes a well-intended quest to be a Good Samaritan can be humorously misguided. While driving along McLaughlin Run Road last October, I noticed that trusses were under construction on the bridge to Pinebridge Commons. I assumed that the 2018 flood and subsequent high water had weakened the bridge and that superstructure enhancements were being added to provide additional strength. But something looked odd. On closer inspection, I saw that the new trusses were being assembled out of wooden 2x4s and planks, not iron or steel, and were being bolted to guardrail supports, not the main span. Although I graduated from an engineering school, Purdue University, I was an economics student and acquired no engineering training or wisdom. But I wondered how flimsy wooden trusses could make the bridge stronger. Since construction was still in process, I thought I’d have sufficient time to locate the owner of the mall and alert him to any safety issues, but I needed confirmation of my concerns. I took a few photos and emailed them to my engineer friends, seeking their professional opinions. The consensus response was alarming — the design appeared to be dangerously inadequate, but more photos were needed. When I returned to the bridge to take more detailed pictures, a fellow in a fancy pick-up truck saw me closely inspecting the construction and taking pictures. He climbed out of his truck and politely asked, “Can I help you, sir? Is there a problem?” I replied, “Yes, indeed. I don’t think these new wood trusses will do anything to support the weakened bridge. I need to find the owner and suggest metal supports.” 22
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
He said, “You need look no further. I’m the owner.” I said, “Great. I’m glad I found you.” Then he said, “The bridge isn’t damaged, sir. It’s plenty strong. The trusses aren’t structural, they’re symbolic. They’re promotional, for marketing purposes, like a physical logo.” While I was relieved that there was no danger to cars or pedestrians, I remained confused, and asked, “How can trusses be promotional?” He replied loudly and slowly, as if my graying hair made me hard of hearing, “Sir, the trusses are made of pine. You’re standing on the pine bridge of Pinebridge Commons.” We both had a good laugh at my misinterpretation, although I was laughing to hide my embarrassment. So, the next time you drive across the bridge, you can rest assured that it’s safe and be thankful that a nebby neighbor didn’t succeed in transforming it into a community eyesore — an unnecessary jumble of steel I-beams and girders designed by an economics major! n Feedback and comments are welcome at bkefather@yahoo.com.
PINEBRIDGE COMMONS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Let us make you smile!
T imothy J. K err , D.M.D. R omana P autler K err , D.M.D.
KK 412-257-4250
Pinebridge Commons Suite 207
kerrdmd.com
Chairside Whitening System
“Quality Dentistry with a Gentle Touch & the Personalized Service that YOU Deserve!”
General Dentist and Prosthodontic Specialist
NEWLY RENOVATED • STATE-OF-THE-ART Pinebridge Dental • Upper St. Clair
88 Dental • Castle Shannon
www.manalosmiles.com
manalosmiles@aol.com
412-221-2221
412-343-4100
PINEBRIDGE COMMONS AHN Pediatrics All American Bistro Cardinal Endocrinology Design Image Salon Emerick Financial Planning Emma’s Kafe & Deli Estetyka Gallagher Wealth Management Peter Gialames & Associates Interior Designs/Furnishings by Mary Kay Chaffee Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Larry E. Manalo, DMD Melissa D. Michel, LPC Pediatric Dentistry South Questa Petroleum Co. Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins. Suburban Dry Cleaners Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent. Dr. Brett Crell and Dr. Beth Troy Orthodontics Whole Plants Health, LLC Xcoal Energy Resources Spring 2024
McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road pinebridgecommons.com
Leasing Opportunity Baker Young Corporation
412.227.1400
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
23
Upper St. Clair School District
Board of School Directors
uscsd.k12.pa.us
@USCSchools
To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, and follow the automated directions.
Administrator
Jennifer A. Schnore President jschnore@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*
Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel Vice President dwetzel@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*
Barbara L. Bolas bbolas@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*
Dr. Daphna Gans dgans@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*
Secretary/Email Address
Extension
Dr. John Rozzo...........................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Superintendent of Schools smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Amy Pfender.........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Deputy Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Lou Angelo ..........................................................langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2272 Director of Operations & Facilities Ray Berrott.................................................................rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2059 Director of Technology Sean Bryson ...............................................................sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2560 Chief of School Police Dr. Judy Bulazo .........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Director of Curriculum and Professional Development mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Scott Burchill ............................................................Dawn Machi ............................................ 2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Carson, Jr............................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Cassandra Doggrell ............................................Julie Karabinos......................................... 2116 Director of Special Education jkarabinos@uscsd.k12.pa.us Danny Holzer...............................................................Kimberly Valeriano.................................... 2260 Director of Athletics kvaleriano@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Lauren Madia ........................................................Terri Lott .................................................. 2283 Director of Pupil Services tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jonn Mansfield ............................................................jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us ..................... 3450 Director of Transportation Tina Vojtko ................................................................tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2215 Communications Specialist Bradley Wilson ..........................................................bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 3318 Director of Strategic Initiatives
School District Central Office Administration
Kelly P. Hanna khanna01@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*
Justin Lamber jlamber@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027* Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools
Michael R. Mascaro Angela B. Petersen mmascaro@uscsd.k12.pa.us apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027* 2025*
Hallie H. Snyder hsnyder@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*
The list of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors 2023-2024 meeting dates is available on t h e D i s t r i c t ’s w e b s i t e : uscsd.k12.pa.us/schoolboard. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. in the district administration building.
Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance
Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development
The required annual notices to parents of children who reside in the Upper St. Clair School District are available online. Visit the district website at uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information. 24
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Ray Carson, Jr. Dr. Lou Angelo Senior Director of Operations Director of Operations & Facilities & Administrative Services
Dr. Cassandra Doggrell Director of Special Education
Dr. Lauren Madia Director of Pupil Services
Ray Berrott Director of Technology
Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives
School District Building Administration
*Date indicates expiration of term.
Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices
Dr. Amy Pfender Deputy Superintendent
Dr. Timothy Wagner High School Principal Dr. Daniel Beck High School Assistant Principal Cara Senger High School Assistant Principal
Spring 2024
Erin Peterson Fort Couch Middle School Principal Gordon Mathews Fort Couch Assistant Principal Dr. Daniel O’Rourke Boyce Middle School Principal Dr. Christine Mussomeli Boyce Assistant Principal
Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller Eisenhower Elementary School Principal/Supervisor of Elementary Education Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer Streams Elementary School Principal
Upper St. Clair School District Annual Report: 2023 Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools The 2023 Annual Report for the Upper St. Clair School District provided an opportunity to reflect on all of the amazing accomplishments that our students, our staff and our district achieved throughout the last 12 months. Whether big or small, individual or team, the accomplishments in academics, the arts and athletics are a source of pride for our entire Upper St. Clair community. These eight pages provide a glimpse of the great things that are happening in our schools. To learn more, we invite you to visit the District’s website — uscsd.k12.pa.us. Articles and photos highlighting academic competitions, community service projects, special events, as well as honors and awards are shared regularly throughout the year. While we are incredibly proud of Upper St. Clair School District’s many achievements, we recognize that our greatest asset is our people. We have a highly talented faculty and staff who care deeply about our students. Collectively, our families serve as educational partners, volunteers and advocates for our district who enhance the welcoming culture in each of our buildings. Most importantly, our students work hard and leverage the many opportunities that are provided within our school community in order to reach their fullest potential. When I began my tenure as Upper St. Clair’s superintendent of schools in July 2018, I remarked that “there is no greater honor or responsibility than to be entrusted with the education and care of our community’s children.” That still holds true today. Thank you for this incredible opportunity to serve our community. Sincerely yours,
Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent
2023 National Blue Ribbon School Boyce Middle School is among the 353 schools in the nation that were named 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. This marks the second Blue Ribbon for Boyce Middle School and the 13th overall for the Upper St. Clair School District. Boyce Middle School, which serves 620 students in grades five and six, earned its first National Blue Ribbon in 1992. The school is led by Principal Dr. Dan O’Rourke and Assistant Principal Dr. Christine Mussomeli, who described the accomplishment as a monumental achievement. “The Blue Ribbon Award is one of the most coveted awards in education,” Dr. O’Rourke said. “Only 13 public schools in Pennsylvania can be nominated, so to be one of a fraction of a percent of schools to receive the award is an immense accomplishment for the students, staff, district and community.”
Our OurStudents Students National NationalMerit MeritScholarship ScholarshipProgram Program Commended Commended
Semifinalists 2024 2024 Semifinalists 2023 2023 2022 2022 2021 2021 2020 2020 2019 2019 2018 2018 2017 2017 2016 2016 00
55
1010
1515
2020
2525
3030
3535
4040
Students Students enter enter thethe National National Merit Merit Scholarship Scholarship Program Program byby taking taking thethe PSAT PSAT – the – the National National Merit Merit Scholarship Scholarship Qualifying Qualifying Test Test – during – during thethe fallfall of of their their junior junior year. year. Semifinalist: Semifinalist: scores scores in the in the top top 1%1% Commended Commended Students: Students: scores scores in the in the top top 3%3%
Superintendent Superintendent Dr.Dr. John John Rozzo Rozzo attributes attributes thethe District’s District’s success success to to thethe collective collective commitment commitment to to quality quality public public education. education.
AP APScholars Scholars 2023 2023
APAP Scholar Scholar w/Distinction w/Distinction
APAP Scholar Scholar w/Honor w/Honor
APAP Scholar Scholar
2022 2022
127 127 117 117
2021 2021
145 145
2020 2020
114 114
2019 2019
139 139 129 129
2018 2018
138 138
2017 2017 0 0
3030
6060
Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair ranks ranks asas thethe No. No. 11 school school district district in in Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, according according to to thethe 2023 2023 School School Guide Guide published published byby thethe Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Business Business Times. Times. This This marks marks thethe second second year year in in a row a row that that Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair hashas reached reached No. No. 1 in 1 in thethe statewide statewide rankings, rankings, which which began began in in 2017. 2017.
9090
120 120
150 150
APAP Scholar Scholar with with Distinction: Distinction: average average score score of of at at least least 3.53.5 onon all all APAP exams exams taken taken and and scores scores of of 3 or 3 or higher higher onon five five or or more more exams exams APAP Scholar Scholar with with Honor: Honor: average average score score of of 3.25 3.25 or or higher higher onon all all APAP exams exams taken taken and and scores scores of of 3 or 3 or higher higher onon four four or or more more of of these these exams exams APAP Scholar: Scholar: scores scores of of 3 or 3 or higher higher onon three three or or more more exams exams
“Great “Great communities communities make make great great schools, schools, and and great great schools schools make make great great communities,” communities,” hehe said. said. “We “We areare incredibly incredibly fortunate fortunate to to have have thethe support support ofof parents, parents, students, students, teachers, teachers, administrators, administrators, staff, staff, a school a school board board and and other other community community members members who who share share ourour commitment commitment to to providing providing ourour students students with with a world-class a world-class educational educational experience.” experience.” For For each each ofof thethe last last five five years, years, Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair hashas ascended ascended in in thethe state state rankings. rankings. Debuting Debuting at at No. No. 1010 in in 2017, 2017, thethe district district climbed climbed to to No. No. 5 in 5 in 2018, 2018, No. No. 3 in 3 in 2019, 2019, and and No. No. 2 in 2 in 2020, 2020, before before reaching reaching No. No. 1 in 1 in 2022. 2022. There There were were nono rankings rankings in in 2021 2021 due due to to thethe pandemic. pandemic. For For thethe fourth fourth straight straight year, year, Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair ranks ranks No. No. 1 among 1 among thethe 105 105 school school districts districts in in southwest southwest Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania.
Upper UpperSt. St.Clair ClairSchool SchoolDistrict District• •Annual AnnualReport: Report:2023 2023
Our Students • All schools in the Upper St. Clair School District have earned top rankings in the list of 2023-24 Best Elementary Schools, Best Middle Schools and Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. • The USCHS World Language Department earned a 2023 Golden Globe Award from the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association. • Streams Elementary third grader Lillian Pfeiffer placed first in the Pittsburgh region in the National Energy Technology Laboratory’s 2023 Earth Day Poster Contest. • A team of Fort Couch Middle School students won the 2023 Pittsburgh Regional Future City Competition and advanced to the international competition, where they earned two awards – Best City Essay and the Special Award for Best Management of Water Resources.
2023 SAT averages 800
• For the fourth year in a row, the USCHS Speech & Debate team was named one of the nation’s Top 100 schools by the National Speech & Debate Association.
• Three USCHS students were selected to perform in the PMEA All-State Chorus – Elliott Bruno, Reese Copenhaver and Colin Eccher.
2023 ACT averages
531
508
18 12 6
Evidence-based Reading & Writing
Math
0
18.6
26.5
26.5 23.2 19.0
24.7 20.1
25.2 23.6 19.6
26.0 23.9 19.5
National
520
25.6 23.6
Pennsylvania
24
National
200
• The USCHS Speech and Debate team won the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) State Championship – marking the team’s fourth state title since 2017.
609
Pennsylvania
300
• For the eighth consecutive year, Upper St. Clair has been named among the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation – one of only 15 school districts in Allegheny County and 123 in Pennsylvania to earn the distinction in 2023. • Four USCHS musicians successfully auditioned for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) All-State Band – Isaac Bernstein, percussion; Gabe Pacella, trumpet; Lauren Tenney, clarinet; and Ben Wasson, trombone.
Upper St. Clair High School
608
Upper St. Clair High School
400
• Nate Grabowski was named Student of the Month for the Power Motorsports Technology program at Parkway West Career & Technology Center in May and October 2023.
30
547 500
• USCHS has been named to the 2022-23 AP School Honor Roll – recognizing Advanced Placement programs that deliver results for students while broadening access.
• USCHS students Isaac Bernstein and Kriti Gupta were among Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania’s 18 Under Eighteen honorees for 2023.
36
700
600
• Senior Lucia Miles and junior Giuliana Amorosa were named Fellows at the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh.
English
Mathematics
Reading
Science
Composite
Unity • Success • Character
Our OurStudents Students
• Boyce • Boyce Middle Middle School School sixthsixth grader grader Kaaveri Kaaveri PatilPatil tied tied for winner for winner in in the Lower the Lower Division Division Monologues Monologues Career Career & Tech. & Tech. Center Center category category at the at 29th the 29th Annual Annual Shakespeare Shakespeare Monologue Monologue & Scene & Scene USCHS USCHS Enrollment Enrollment 39 39 2023-24 2023-24 • Fort • Fort Couch Couch student student Raana Raana Parchuri Parchuri Contest Contest at Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh Public Public Theater. Theater. 2022-23 2022-23 38 38 waswas crowned crowned champion champion of the of 2023 the 2023 41 41 2021-22 2021-22 • Senior IsaacIsaac Bernstein Bernstein waswas selected selected Western Western Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Spelling Spelling BeeBee • Senior as one as one of 16 of American 16 American students students – reaching – reaching the quarterfinals the quarterfinals in the in the 31 31 2020-21 2020-21 to participate to participate in the in 2023 the 2023 HighHigh Scripps Scripps National National Spelling Spelling Bee.Bee. 29 29 2019-20 2019-20 School School Diplomats Diplomats Japan Japan program program – – 27 27 2018-19 2018-19 • Fort • Fort Couch Couch Middle Middle School School students students attending attending a 10-day a 10-day cultural cultural placed placed firstfirst at the at regional the regional PA Media PA Media enrichment enrichment experience experience in Japan. in Japan. 2017-18 2017-18 33 33 and and Design Design Competition. Competition. Seventh Seventh 34 34 2016-17 2016-17 • Senior • Senior YogYog Trivedi Trivedi placed placed 10th10th in in grader grader FelixFelix Chen Chen wonwon the 3-D the 3-D 31 31 2015-16 2015-16 the Advertising the Advertising event event at the at 2023 the 2023 Design Design category category and and eighth eighth grader grader National National Leadership Leadership Conference Conference of of Priyaharshini Priyaharshini Sivakumar Sivakumar finished finished 16 16 2014-15 2014-15 Future Future Business Business Leaders Leaders of America. of America. first first in Animation. in Animation. Both Both qualified qualified to to 0 0 10 10 20 20 30 30 40 40 50 50 compete compete at the at state the state competition. competition. • Two • Two teams teams of USCHS of USCHS students students werewere top performers top performers at the at Future the Future • Junior • Junior Priyasha Priyasha ItaniItani and and seventh seventh Problem Problem Solving Solving (FPS) (FPS) StateState Bowl Bowl – – grader grader Audrey Audrey Wetterau Wetterau werewere qualifying qualifying for the for FPS the FPS International International honored honored as Junior as Junior Women Women of of Conference. Achievement Achievement at the at 2023 the 2023 Women Women of of Conference. Achievement Achievement Awards, Awards, sponsored sponsored by by 2023 2023 USCHS USCHS Inductees Inductees 187 187 • Sophomore • Sophomore Braidyn Braidyn Recker Recker waswas the nonprofit the nonprofit Cribs Cribs for Kids. for Kids. selected selected to participate to participate in the in the 2022 2022 199 199 week-long week-long FBIFBI National National Academy Academy • Nine • Nine USCHS USCHS artists artists and and writers writers Associates Associates Youth Youth Leadership Leadership earned earned recognition recognition for 17 forentries 17 entries in in 2021 2021 188 188 Program at the at FBI the FBI Academy Academy in in the annual the annual Scholastic Scholastic Art Art & Writing & Writing Program 2020 2020 172 172 Quantico, Quantico, Va. Va. Competition. Competition. Awards Awards included included two two GoldGold Keys, Keys, seven seven Silver Silver KeysKeys and and 2019 2019 154 154 • Seventh • Seventh grader grader Arjun Arjun KairiKairi eighteight Honorable Honorable Mentions. Mentions. placed placed first first in the in statewide the statewide 20232023 2018 2018 158 158 School School BusBus Safety Safety Poster Poster Contest, Contest, • Four • Four USCHS USCHS students students werewere top top 2017 2017 156 156 sponsored sponsored by the by Pennsylvania the Pennsylvania performers performers at the at Pennsylvania the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. of Transportation. Future Future Business Business Leaders Leaders of America of America Department 139 139 2016 2016 StateState Leadership Leadership Conference Conference – – 0 0 50 50 100 100 150 150 200 200 advancing advancing to nationals. to nationals.
Parkway Parkway West West
• USCHS • USCHS Student Student Council Council waswas honored honored as a as 2023 a 2023 National National GoldGold Council Council of Excellence of Excellence by the by the National National Student Student Council. Council.
National National Honor Honor Society Society
Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair School School District District • Annual • Annual Report: Report: 2023 2023
Our Students 2023 PSSA Scores
PSSA: Science
The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a standards-based, criterion-referenced assessment used to measure students’ attainment of academic standards. The standards identify what a student should know and be able to do at varying grade levels. Students in grades 3 through 8 are assessed in English language arts and math. Students in grades 4 and 8 are also assessed in science.
Upper St. Clair School District Pennsylvania
91.8%
85.9%
40
87.9%
Pennsylvania
89.2% 46.5% 88.2% 42.8% 81.1% 36.5%
Grade 7
20
40
33.2%
60
80
100
79.8%
68.1%
Grade 8
52.7% 0
70.8%
79.8%
89.6%
Grade 8
85.8%
76.0%
88.7%
54.5%
100
51.7%
76.0%
Grade 7
80
Upper St. Clair School District
Grade 6
55.6%
60
PSSA: Math
Grade 5
53.7%
Grade 6
20
Grade 4
51.8%
Grade 5
74.2%
57.0%
Grade 3
54.0%
96.6%
89.9% 0
91.4%
Grade 4
Pennsylvania
Grade 8
PSSA: English Language Arts Grade 3
Upper St. Clair School District
Grade 4
26.1% 0
20
40
60
80
100
Unity • Success • Character
Our OurStudents Students Varsity Varsity Athletics Athletics
Club Club Sports Sports
WPIAL WPIAL Champions Champions
• Ultimate • Ultimate Frisbee, Frisbee, Spring Spring League League Champion Champion
Section Section Champions Champions
• Kaitlyn • Kaitlyn Connors, Connors, • Girls • Basketball Girls Basketball Girls Swimming, Girls Swimming, 100 freestyle 100 freestyle • Boys • Basketball Boys Basketball • Dani • Dani Prunzik, Prunzik, Girls Track, Girls Track, 100 100 • Girls • Soccer Girls Soccer • Dani • Dani Prunzik, Prunzik, Girls Track, Girls Track, 200 200 • Boys • Soccer Boys Soccer
• Ice•Hockey, Ice Hockey, PIHL Penguins PIHL Penguins Cup Runner-Up Cup Runner-Up
WPIAL WPIAL Runner-Up Runner-Up • Connor • Connor McKenzie, McKenzie, Boys Golf Boys Golf • Girls • Basketball Girls Basketball
Our Our Staff Staff && School School Board Board • Dr.•Timothy Dr. Timothy • Dr.•John Dr. John Seybert, Seybert, USCHS USCHS band band • Two • Boyce Two Boyce Wagner Wagner director, director, was honored was honored with the with the Middle Middle School School was named was named Citation Citation of Excellence of Excellence Award Award teachers teachers were were Pennsylvania’s Pennsylvania’s from from the the honored honored with with 2023 2023 Principal Principal National National BandBand the Promising the Promising of theofYear the by Year by Association. Association. In In Practitioners Practitioners the Pennsylvania the Pennsylvania addition, addition, Dr. Dr. Award Award from from the the Principals Principals Seybert Seybert presented presented Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Dr. Timothy Dr. Timothy Wagner Wagner Association. Association. a clinic a clinic at theat the Association Association for forAbbeyAbbey DiGregorio DiGregorio 14th annual 14th annual Middle Middle LevelLevel JENerations JENerations Education Education • School • School BoardBoard Member Member Barbara Barbara Dr. Seybert John Seybert (PAMLE). Jazz Festival, Jazz Festival, Dr. John (PAMLE). Abbey Abbey BolasBolas was honored was honored with the with2023 the 2023 sponsored sponsored by the by the DiGregorio, DiGregorio, William William Howard Howard Jazz Education a physical a physical Day Award Day Award from from Jazz Education Network. education education the Pennsylvania the Pennsylvania Network. teacher, teacher, and Ellie and Ellie PublicPublic Education Education Oxenreiter, Oxenreiter, a a Foundation. Foundation. The The • USCHS • USCHS boys’boys’ learning learning support supportEllie Oxenreiter awardaward recognizes recognizes soccersoccer coachcoach Ellie Oxenreiter teacher, teacher, were were outstanding outstanding Uwe Uwe Schneider Schneider recognized recognized during during the PAMLE the PAMLE State State contributions contributions to to reached reached his 300th his 300th Uwe Schneider Uwe Schneider Barbara Barbara Bolas Bolas Conference Conference 2023. 2023. publicpublic education. education. careercareer win. win. • Recently • Recently retired retired USCHS USCHS choralchoral director, director, Lorraine Lorraine Milovac, Milovac, was was honored honored with the with the Pennsylvania Pennsylvania MusicMusic Educators Educators Association Association Lorraine Lorraine Milovac Milovac District District 1 1 Citation Citation of Excellence. of Excellence.
Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair School School District District • Annual • Annual Report: Report: 2023 2023
Fiscal Responsibility 2023-2024 Budget The 2023-24 budget totals $100,255,600, which included a 3.75% millage increase of 1.0711 mills – resulting in a final millage rate of 29.6339 mills. Throughout the 2023-24 budget process, district leaders focused on three primary objectives: deliver extraordinary learning experiences for students; balance the needs of the school district while recognizing the fiduciary responsibilities to the community; and remain cognizant of the interdependence of all aspects that directly and indirectly affect students’ school experience.
Expenditures: $100,255,600 Books & Supplies Misc. Fees 6.23% 5.81%
Purchased Other Services 1.77% Purchased Services 4.56%
Other Uses 6.72% Equipment 0.12%
Several external factors impacted the budget, including uncertainties regarding Allegheny County’s common level ratio. The common level ratio is a mathematical calculation that measures how the county’s base-year assessments compare to new assessments determined by recent sales. Intended to provide greater fairness to property owners, the common level ratio recently dropped from 81.1% to 63.5% for 2022 appeals and 63.6% for 2023 appeals. “With nearly 80% of the District’s funding coming from local taxpayers, this change could have a significant impact on the district’s revenues,” Scott Burchill, director of business and finance, said. “In previous years, the district experienced revenue growth from real estate annually. However, there is no growth built into the 2023-24 budget to offset the uncertainty surrounding the common level ratio.” Salaries and benefits account for nearly 80% of the district’s budget. During the 2022-23 fiscal year, there were 22 total retirements throughout the school district, 11 of which were teachers. Five operations/administrative positions were eliminated and/or have remained vacant for the 2023-24 school year. All position eliminations are attritional cuts and include a custodial position, operations coordinator and transportation manager. The assistant superintendent and custodial manager positions remained unfilled for the current fiscal year. The savings from these five positions helped to offset a 15% increase – nearly $1 million – in medical insurance costs.
Contracted Services 3.34% Salaries & Benefits 71.45%
Revenue: $100,256,762 Federal 0.5% Local 78.5%
State 20.8%
Capital Improvements All six district schools experienced capital improvement projects during 2023-24. Projects included: • new roof and water heating system at Upper St. Clair High School • safety enhancements at all buildings • new HVAC control systems at all three elementary schools • insulation and ductwork repair and replacement at Boyce and Fort Couch middle schools • additional plumbing repairs at the high school
Unity • Success • Character
Class Classofof2023 2023 Where Whereare arethey theynow? now? Air Force AirAcademy Force Academy Allegheny Allegheny CollegeCollege AuburnAuburn University University BaldwinBaldwin WallaceWallace University University Bates College Bates College Belmont Belmont University University Bryn Mawr BrynCollege Mawr College Bucknell Bucknell University University Butler University Butler University CarlowCarlow University University Carnegie Carnegie Mellon Mellon University University Case Western Case Western Reserve Reserve University University CatholicCatholic University University of America of America CitadelCitadel MilitaryMilitary CollegeCollege ClarionClarion University University Clemson Clemson University University CoastalCoastal Carolina Carolina University University CollegeCollege of Charleston of Charleston CollegeCollege of NewofJersey New Jersey Commonwealth Commonwealth University University of PA of PA Community Community CollegeCollege of Allegheny of Allegheny CountyCounty Community Community CollegeCollege of Beaver of Beaver CountyCounty CornellCornell University University Dartmouth Dartmouth CollegeCollege Davidson Davidson CollegeCollege Davis &Davis Elkins& College Elkins College Denison Denison University University Duquesne Duquesne University University Edinboro Edinboro University University Elon University Elon University FloridaFlorida Gulf Coast Gulf University Coast University FloridaFlorida State University State University Fordham Fordham University University Franciscan Franciscan University University of Steubenville of Steubenville
GannonGannon University University GeorgiaGeorgia InstituteInstitute of Technology of Technology GeorgeGeorge Mason Mason University University GeorgeGeorge Washington Washington University University Georgetown Georgetown University University GeorgiaGeorgia InstituteInstitute of Technology of Technology Grove City Grove College City College High Point HighUniversity Point University Hiram G. Hiram Andrews G. Andrews Center Center Hope College Hope College IndianaIndiana University, University, Bloomington Bloomington IndianaIndiana University University of Pennsylvania of Pennsylvania Ithaca College Ithaca College James James Madison Madison University University John Carroll John Carroll University University Johns Hopkins Johns Hopkins University University KansasKansas State University State University Kent State KentUniversity State University KenyonKenyon CollegeCollege LaRoche LaRoche University University Lycoming Lycoming CollegeCollege Marist College Marist College Messiah Messiah University University Miami University Miami University Michigan Michigan State University State University Middlebury Middlebury CollegeCollege New York NewUniversity York University Northwestern Northwestern University University Nova Southeastern Nova Southeastern University University Ohio State OhioUniversity State University Ohio University Ohio University PatrickPatrick & Henry& Community Henry Community CollegeCollege Penn State PennUniversity, State University, Behrend Behrend Penn State PennUniversity State University
2023 Valedictorians: 2023 Valedictorians: Delaney Delaney Kathryn Kathryn Andrejcik, Andrejcik, Aashna Aashna Banerjee, Banerjee, Jasmine Jasmine Francine Francine Dietiker, Dietiker, Lily Catherine Lily Catherine Gessel, Gessel, Ansh Goyal, Ansh Goyal, Morgan Morgan Elizabeth Elizabeth Huzjak, Huzjak, Cassidy Cassidy Mae Mae Jordan, Jordan, Julia Laura Julia Laura Kania,Kania, Ava Mercedes Ava Mercedes Keating, Keating, Raniya Raniya Kethavath, Kethavath, Rebecca Rebecca GraceGrace Lang, Lang, JennaJenna Frances Frances Mantel, Mantel, Phillip Phillip Theodore Theodore Markovitz, Markovitz, CarterCarter PatrickPatrick McClintockMcClintockComeaux, Comeaux, Anna Anna Jean McElligott, Jean McElligott, Quinton Quinton B. Miller, B. Miller, Mariah Mariah Marie Marie Rainier, Rainier, Maanasa Maanasa Saayi Saayi Reddy, Reddy, Sarah Sarah Elizabeth Elizabeth Robert, Robert, Ashvita Ashvita Saxena, Saxena, LaurenLauren Elizabeth Elizabeth Starr, Cole Starr, Alexander Cole Alexander Super Super and Benjamin and Benjamin George George Wasson. Wasson.
Penn State PennUniversity, State University, GreaterGreater Allegheny Allegheny Penn State PennUniversity, State University, Harrisburg Harrisburg Penn West, Penn California West, California University University PhillipsPhillips Exeter Exeter Academy Academy Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Technical Technical CollegeCollege Princeton Princeton University University PurduePurdue University University Rensselaer Rensselaer Polytechnic Polytechnic InstituteInstitute Robert Robert Morris Morris University University Rochester Rochester InstituteInstitute of Technology of Technology Royal Conservatoire Royal Conservatoire of Scotland of Scotland Saint Francis Saint Francis University University Saint Vincent Saint Vincent CollegeCollege Seton Hill Seton University Hill University SlipperySlippery Rock University Rock University Southern Southern Methodist Methodist University University SuffolkSuffolk University University Syracuse Syracuse University University TempleTemple University University Texas Christian Texas Christian University University TulaneTulane University University University University of Alabama of Alabama University University of California, of California, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara University University of Connecticut of Connecticut University University of Dayton of Dayton University University of Delaware of Delaware University University of Florida of Florida University University of Kentucky of Kentucky University University of Maryland, of Maryland, CollegeCollege Park Park University University of Mississippi of Mississippi University University of Mount of Mount Union Union University University of Nevada, of Nevada, Las Vegas Las Vegas University University of NorthofCarolina North Carolina University University of NorthofTexas North Texas University University of NotreofDame Notre Dame University University of Pittsburgh of Pittsburgh University University of Pittsburgh, of Pittsburgh, Bradford Bradford University University of Pittsburgh, of Pittsburgh, Greensburg Greensburg University University of Pittsburgh, of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Johnstown University University of Richmond of Richmond University University of South of Carolina South Carolina University University of Tampa of Tampa University University of Tennessee, of Tennessee, Knoxville Knoxville University University of Vermont of Vermont University University of Virginia of Virginia University University of Wisconsin of Wisconsin UPMC UPMC Mercy School Mercy School of Nursing of Nursing U.S. AirU.S. Force AirAcademy Force Academy U.S. AirU.S. Force Air ROTC Force ROTC VirginiaVirginia Peninsula Peninsula Community Community CollegeCollege VirginiaVirginia Polytechnic Polytechnic InstituteInstitute Washington Washington & Jefferson & Jefferson CollegeCollege West Chester West Chester University University West Virginia West Virginia Potomac Potomac State College State College West Virginia West Virginia University University Westminster Westminster CollegeCollege Wittenberg Wittenberg University University Worcester Worcester Polytechnic Polytechnic InstituteInstitute
Upper Upper St.St. Clair Clair School School District District • Annual • Annual Report: Report: 20232023
Justin Lamber Welcomed to School Board This past December,
Justin Lamber began his term as a new member of the Upper Justin Lamber St. Clair Board of School Directors. An eight-year resident of Upper St. Clair, Justin serves as a local bank manager. He was drafted to play baseball for the Kansas City Royals and now volunteers with Casey’s Clubhouse and the Miracle League of the South Hills. Justin and his wife, Anna, have a middle-school-aged daughter enrolled in the District. Justin replaces Louis Mafrice Jr., who was appointed in November 2021 to serve the remaining two years of a four-year term. He did not seek reelection in 2023. In total, Lou served on the USC School Board for 14 years. Dr. John Rozzo and members of the school board recognized his service during his final meeting in November. n
Board Member Honored Barbara Bolas, a member of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors for many years, was honored with the 2023 William Howard Day Award from the Pennsylvania Public Education Foundation (PaPEF). The award recognizes outstanding contributions to public education and was presented to Barbara during the 2023 School Leadership Conference, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators and Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA). In honor of Barbara and her contribution to public education, the District will receive a $5000 award from the Pennsylvania Public Education Foundation by way of a directed donation to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. n Barbara Bolas, USC School Board Member and Dr. Richard Frerichs, Pennsylvania Public Education Foundation President
Leadership Academy Recognized for Excellence This past October, the Leadership Academy at Upper St. Clair High School was honored with the Program of Excellence Award from the Pennsylvania Council for the Social Studies (PCSS). The USCHS Leadership Academy is a one-week summer workshop offering students exposure to leadership concepts and practices. Students identify their leadership strengths and learn how these skills may be used to make them successful in all stages of life. Through experiential learning strategies, group projects and hands-on activities, students apply and practice their leadership skills — building confidence in their abilities and enhancing their capacity to serve in leadership roles. The USCHS program offers four sequential phases that can be completed over the course of a student’s high school experience. “PCSS believes that students learning to be strong leaders in their schools and communities is civic education at its finest and we are proud to honor the Leadership Academy with the PCSS Program of Excellence Award,” said David Trevaskis, executive secretary for the PCSS. Dr. Steve Torquato, an USCHS social studies teacher and PCSS board member, serves as an USCHS Leadership Academy Phase One instructor. He and his USC colleagues are currently collaborating with the University of Pittsburgh to develop a six-week course to expand the leadership program and enable students to earn college credits for their work. n Ryan LaRocco, Cullen Moriarty, Jamie Barrett, Lauren Pocrass and Dr. Steve Torquato with the Program of Excellence Award Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
33
Focusing on Financial Literacy and Career Readiness More than 150 Upper St. Clair fifth and sixth graders got a glimpse into the future as they experienced Junior Achievement’s BizTown, a day-long simulation of running a town. The exercise is the culminating activity of the new CAPS course at Boyce Middle School. The CAPS course — short for Consuming and Producing Successfully — is a newly developed curriculum within the expressive arts rotation at Boyce and Fort Couch middle schools. Students in grades five through eight receive instruction and hands-on learning in the areas of financial literacy, community and economy, work and career readiness, business management, entrepreneurship and philanthropy. “In our first lesson, students explore their passive consumption habits, including what they spend, what they watch and the information they absorb,” said Dr. Kelly Pascarella, Boyce CAPS teacher. “The overarching goal is to transform them into active producers within our society. We encourage students to reflect on their current roles as producers, considering what they can create or contribute to the world as a product or service.” Located in Bridgeville, the BizTown simulation experience allows students to take on roles as business leaders, workers and consumers, participating as active citizens to run a miniaturized town. Complete with realistic store fronts, debit cards, checkbooks, online payments, Wi-Fi installation, health insurance and an elected mayor, it provides an authentic and fully immersive learning experience. “This hands-on approach allows students to see and experience the concepts they learn in the classroom,” Dr. Pascarella said. “By taking on various roles and responsibilities, students must think critically and problem-solve when unexpected situations and challenges arise. Their decisions impact the success of their business and the overall community.”
34
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Before their day-long experience at BizTown, students are introduced to career readiness topics, including creating video resumes, filling out job applications and refining their interview skills. “These skills prepare them for the role they will play when they run their own business where they calculate operating costs and take out the loan they will need to start up their business at BizTown,” said Dr. Pascarella. “Their goal at BizTown is to pay off their loan and make a profit.” Running an entire town takes many hands and lots of oversight. To assist, the Boyce CAPS program partnered with students enrolled in the Financial Literacy course taught by Jared Nicholson, a math teacher at the high school. Approximately 25 high school students provided guidance and supervision throughout the day. The high school students were trained by BizTown staff prior to the simulation day, and are responsible for overseeing the functioning of the businesses, guiding the students through their roles and ensuring the business runs smoothly. The USCHS Financial Literacy course explores the concepts of budgeting, saving, banking, compound interest, retirement, credit cards, the stock market, product profitability and loans, including financing higher education. “BizTown is a great experience for the high school students,” said Nicholson. “Not only are they building relationships while volunteering with our middle school students, they are also reinforcing valuable topics for their own learning, including loans, interest rates, payroll, product pricing and net income.” Much like the middle school students, the high school students are often surprised by some of the course content.
“The most eye-opening moment of the course is the budgeting project. They never realized all of the monthly costs associated with being an adult,” Mr. Nicholson said. “Students are also struck by the power of investing early.” In addition to the Financial Literacy course, Nicholson is teaching a College in High School accounting course in this year’s spring semester. He believes that financial literacy is essential in order to help ensure students make solid financial choices in the future. “Many financial choices made early in adulthood can have large impacts on your financial standing later in life,” he said. “Teaching students how to properly manage their money from a young age has lasting positive impacts.” Dr. Pascarella believes that teaching financial literacy and career skills in early middle school is important in the development of responsible citizens. The CAPS course was added to the expressive arts rotation at Boyce and Fort Couch middle schools at the start of the 2023–24 school year. At Boyce, the expressive arts include art, CAPS, music and STEAM design, each lasting for one nine-week marking period. Since this is the first year of implementation for the CAPS course at Boyce, all fifth and sixth grade students will experience BizTown this school year. Beginning with the 2024–25 school year, only the district’s fifth graders will participate at the end of their CAPS rotation. The expressive arts program at Fort Couch includes art, music, STEAM design, CAPS and communication arts. In the seven-week CAPS course for seventh graders and the six-week course for eighth graders, students become entrepreneurs by evaluating the world around them, identifying a problem to solve, then creating and building a product-based solution. Students then sell their product or service, evaluating the performance of their business idea and iterating to incorporate learning. Students leave CAPS having defined, built and launched a product in the market, complete with a business model canvas, a budget and pricing model for the business, a product name and brand, a pitch deck, communications and marketing materials, sales goals, reflections and a student portfolio. n
Howard Hanna Upper St. Clair Office
Cell 412-327-2194
Office 412-833-3600
Email amandanasman@howardhanna.com
www.amandanasman.howardhanna.com Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
35
Author Visits Baker and Streams
This past November, Baker and Streams elementary students experienced a day with children’s author Josh Funk. The day was made possible through a collaborative effort between school districts, schools, parent organizations and Upper St. Clair’s technology department. At Upper St. Clair, the author’s visit was coordinated by Baker librarian Linda Connor and Streams librarian Stephanie Kellner, with support from the Baker PTA and Streams PTO. “Upon hearing of an opportunity to have Josh visit, Linda worked with a fellow librarian at Avonworth to help make this happen,” said Stephanie. Collaboration was key to bringing Josh to Pittsburgh and creating this author’s day opportunity for students in six schools, representing four local school districts, including Avonworth, Mt. Lebanon, South Fayette and Upper St. Clair. “Sharing his travel expenses made the visit possible,” said Linda.
36
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Josh Funk is a software engineer and an author of books, including the “Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast” series, “How to Code a Sandcastle,” “Dear Unicorn,” “Dear Dragon,” “My Pet Feet,” the “It’s Not a Fairy Tale” series, “Lost in the Library” and more. “Some of our students are familiar with his Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast characters, as well as his books featuring Patience and Fortitude, the New York Public Library Lions,” said Stephanie. Josh presented two programs — one for younger students in kindergarten, first and second grade and another for third and fourth graders. Both programs complemented Upper St. Clair School District’s curriculum. “In second grade, students study fairy tales and so Josh’s K–2 presentation focused on his ‘It’s Not’ fairy tale series. He, along with some talented teacher-actors, shared one of his books in this series,” said Stephanie. “He then gave students a behind-the-scenes look at being an author, and what it took for him to get his books published.” The program for third and fourth graders focused on the author’s “How to Code” series. “In the library we work with Dash robots in third and fourth grade, so this connection was perfect,” Stephanie said. “He again shared a book from this series and then had students ‘code’ and draw their own robots. He encouraged Spring 2024
students to take these robot characters and use them to start their own stories.” While author’s days happen annually in the elementary schools, this marked the first time Upper St. Clair has connected two of its schools for virtual live programming. The K–2 presentation at Baker in the morning was streamed live for Streams kindergarten students and the same presentation in the afternoon at Streams was broadcast live for Baker kindergarteners. “This is the first time we have shared a live presentation from one school to another school,” said Linda. “We have watched multiple authors via Zoom, but this provided the added benefit of allowing our kindergarteners to watch it in real time. Our tech department put in a lot of time making sure that they got good sound and picture quality of Josh and his slides.” Including the kindergarten students in the author’s visit was a priority for both librarians. “Often, depending on the time of an assembly, kindergarten students miss out on these opportunities,” said Stephanie. “We felt it was important to make sure they had a chance to listen to Josh Funk, hear from an author and connect — even if it was virtual. We are very grateful to our tech department for making this idea a reality!” Not only did hundreds of students benefit from Josh Funk’s author visit, but the collaboration among the four school districts provided a boost for local bookstores. “The students here really enjoyed his presentation, and they love his books,” said Linda. “Another advantage is that, according to Josh, each school district utilized a different independent bookstore in the area.” n
For more information about Josh Funk and his books, visit him at joshfunkbooks.com.
Kindness is a Superpower in USC Kindness was overflowing in Upper St. Clair as the high school celebrated Kindness Week this past October. In addition to promoting kindness among peers, a team of “super” high school students shared their message with the district’s youngest students. Upper St. Clair’s Kindness Week is part of the #bethekindkid Kindness in Action Campaign, in partnership with Remake Learning, as well as the Anti-Defamation League’s No Place for Hate program. The effort was led by members of USCHS Student Council and the school’s No Place for Hate committee. Student leaders included seniors Ava Casciato, Kate Falce, Joe Donnelly and Luke McDonough; juniors Ryan Larocco, Ben Seewald, Carly Shontz, Emma Toosi and Jack Yurcich; sophomores Bella Donnelly, Gianna D’Orazio, Braidyn Recker, Lily Simons and Gigi Spina; and freshmen Caty Howard, Coco Jones, Trevor McClintock-Comeaux and Rachel Scharrer. “We hope our efforts to promote kindness will actually reach every high school student,” said Carly Shontz. “Kindness is so important in treating others with respect and creating a good environment for us to learn and socialize in.” Events and themed-days were planned throughout the weeklong event. Student leaders created several videos and celebrated kindness on Student Council’s Instagram account. High school students were encouraged to complete several activities on the Kindness Checklist, including: • Write a thank you note to a secretary, aide, custodian or nutrition center work. • Pick-up trash in the cafeteria or cafe321 during lunch. • Smile at someone you don’t know. • Compliment your Block 3 or Block 5 teacher. • Take a Be Kind photo and direct message the Student Council Instagram account. • Let someone get in front of you in the lunch line. • Say thank you to a school police officer. • Wear a cardigan on Wednesday. • Write a poem for the school nurse. “Even if it is just one person, it is worth it because that one person having a better day could lead to so many more positive actions in the future,” said Ryan Larocco. “While not everyone will
be kind all the time, hopefully these efforts will be the beginnings of a kinder Upper St. Clair High School.” D r. D a n Beck, assistant principal, and Brooke Tarcson, head of student activities, serve as advisers. “It was awesome to partner with students as we reflected on the impact of kindness in our lives, and all we needed to do was provide them with the opportunity,” said Dr. Beck. “Students were truly empowered to discover innovative ways to spread kindness in our community, and it was a blast to watch how it all played out.” The student leadership group has committed significant resources to promoting kindness within and beyond the high school, extending its kindness initiative to the district’s three elementary schools. Complete with superhero masks and capes, the high school students presented lessons on kindness to students in grades K through 2 at Baker, Eisenhower and Streams. The high school superheroes each shared their kindness superpower, which included saying hello to someone new, giving a high five, making their bed, saying please and thank you, holding the door for others and playing with younger siblings. They read the book, “Kindness is my Superpower,” shared a short video about kindness and completed an activity together. Kindergarten students colored their very own kindness superhero masks, and first and second graders wrote thank you notes to someone special. “Kindness is an invaluable lesson for high school students to share. Many of the adults, including myself, had tears of joy watching the students interact,” said Streams principal Dr. Klousnitzer. “This exchange not only illustrated the high school students’ success in delivering the lesson but also demonstrated how young minds can be inspired to make a difference by spreading kindness throughout their school and community.” n
Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
37
Courtyard Crew Grows at Boyce
Boyce Middle School’s interior courtyard is in the midst of a transformation, thanks to the excitement of the school’s fifth and sixth graders. More than 120 students have signed up for the Courtyard Crew, which is revitalizing the Boyce courtyard through gardening. The Courtyard Crew, part of the school’s Pride Time library programming, has become so large that the students are divided into eight teams. Although each team meets every other week, at least one team works in the library and courtyard every afternoon. The program is one of the clubs organized by Morgan Olsen, Boyce Middle School librarian.
“We would like to create a beautiful green space within the school that students can learn from and in,” Mrs. Olsen said. “The Courtyard Crew finds gardening at the end of the school day a great way to relax and have fun with friends!” “The objective is to provide unique and engaging opportunities for students outside of the traditional classroom setting,” said Dr. Dan O’Rourke, Boyce principal. “Our courtyard is a perfect space for students to collaborate, problem-solve, enjoy nice weather and grow flowers, fruits and vegetables.” n The Courtyard Crew is currently accepting community donations of unwanted perennial plants to add to the courtyard. To coordinate a donation, contact Morgan Olsen at molsen@uscsd.k12.pa.us. 38
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Poems Selected for Publication Fort Couch seventh graders Lindsey Fitzgerald and Finley Garvey were selected for publication in the Creative Communication fall poetry contest. Finley’s poem, “The World Is Always Moving,” and Lindsey’s poem, “A World Lit Up by Flames,” will be published in a student poetry anthology. Only the top 45–55% of entries are included in the publication. Learn more about Creative Communications online: poeticpower.com/students. n
Finley Garvey
Trivia Contest Win Helps Fund Service Trip T h e U S C H S Interact Club was crowned champion in the Trivia Challenge, hosted by Rotary District 7305. The USCHS trivia team consisted of juniors Jamie Barrett, Addison Fitzgerald, Hannah Del and Anna Engelman. As trivia champion, the club earned a monetary award, which will be used toward the club’s upcoming service trip to the Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Fla., this March. The Give Kids the World Village is a Make-a-Wish partner organization. While volunteering, students will help serve meals, run amusement attractions/games and help organize events for the wish children and their families.
Lindsey Fitzgerald
The World Is Always Moving A World Lit Up by Flames Finley Garvey
Lindsey Fitzgerald
A leaf as still as stone Never moves an inch, Unless the leaf is blown To travel with the wind.
Serenity and peace are what we all desire, But many’s eyes are blinded by the fire. When we tried to stop their mad unhinge, We failed and brought back scars and singe.
The movement of the earth, the wind, the fire and the rain Wouldn’t be the main four elements If they always stayed the same. The embers dance their orange and red Upon the maze of wood. Set the green ablaze as it spreads As quickly as it could. The ocean’s vibrant blue Is always rolling with the sea, And the colors wisping down the stream Run oh so gracefully. And while all of nature dances in sync The leaf stays still as stone. What doesn’t move with the rest of the world Is always left alone.
We struggled to navigate their twisted maze As they kept fighting; a powerful blaze. They’d found a way to be fueled by our fearing So they could keep their deadly heat searing.
Let
The Gold Team’s Experience Work for You!
As we looked at the chaos we tried to remember Why coals led to spark and spark led to ember. Soon we would find that they had no sense, Just an insane craving for scorching violence But one day, at last, it came to a close; A bucket of water doused the inferno. A truce was formed and everyone cheered, Their worst enemy at length disappeared. But a fire cannot truly be put out And the flare will return without a doubt. We must accept that peace will never stay In this broken world lit up by flames. Spring 2024
Each office is owned and operated independently
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
39
Fort Couch Team Earns Gold at History Bowl This past December, Fort Couch eighth graders Claire Birmingham, Alexa Galbraith and Kiran Khurana placed first in the middle school division (6–8) of the annual History Bowl, marking back-toback History Bowl wins. The event, sponsored by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, brings together hundreds of local students from dozens of school districts for a fun and experiential competition. History Bowl requires participants to use the John Heinz History Center’s collection to answer local trivia, collaborate/problem solve and demonstrate creative writing skills. Marching Band Earns Top Scores at PIMBA Competition The Upper St. Clair Marching Band earned first place, as well as Best Music Performance and Best Effect awards, in Class AA at the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) competition held at Mt. Lebanon High School. The performance featured the marching band’s Graceland to Liverpool show. The band is under the direction of Dr. John Seybert, performing arts curriculum leader and director of bands. The band was led on the field by USCHS senior Brian McFerran, drum major.
#HaveYouHeard? Have Hav eYou Heard? Students Explore Technology-Based Career Pathways Students at USCHS explored Full Sail University’s Mobile Experience. Housed in an 85-foot trailer, the Mobile Experience offers hands-on exhibits in five technologyrelated areas, including Art, Animation and Design; Game Design and Esports; Video Production; Technology and VR; and Audio Engineering. Full Sail University staff presented different opportunities in the music, movie production and gaming fields, including the production and business-side of the industry. “Students were surprised at the opportunities available in the different industries that were presented,” said Monica Erwin, USC Esports Club sponsor. “This gave students options for different pathways they may not have known even existed and/or how to pursue that pathway or interest.” Located in Winter Park, Fla., Full Sail University offers associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. 40
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Robotics Team Advances to State Competition This past December, Upper St. Clair robotics team Blue Biohazardz placed third overall in the Western Pennsylvania FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Grand Championship, advancing to the PA-West FLL Championship. The team also placed second in robot design and ninth in robot performance. This marks the first time that a USC Robotics team has advanced in this competition. The Blue Biohazardz team of eighth graders includes Sadie Dilmore, Noa Guizzi, Lily Seal, Suhavi Singh, Mahi Thacker, Emma Wakefield and Betsy Zheng, as well as seventh grader Aanya Jha. Coaches include Jake Seal, Amrit Singh and Susan Wakefield. M o re t h a n 6 0 t e a m s f ro m throughout the region competed in the event and were scored in four categories: robot design, innovation, core values and robot performance.
Eighth Grader Named Essay Contest Winner Upper St. Clair eighth grader Suhavi Singh was named top winner in the annual Creative Writing and Arts Contest, part of the 2023 Mahatma Gandhi Birthday Celebration at Carnegie Mellon University. This marked Suhavi’s third time earning recognition in the contest. She was among the top winners in 2020 and in 2022. The theme for this year’s contest was “Promoting Non-Violence through Spirituality: Lessons from Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.” Students in the 6–8 division were tasked with writing an essay, poetry or musical composition that represents Gandhi’s and MLK Jr.’s belief that through spirituality and working together, different religions can promote non-violence.
Sixth Grader Earns Silver in Race This past September, USC sixth grader Juliette Hirzel placed second in the 12–13 age group at the 46th annual Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race. At 12 years and 20 days old, Juliette was among the youngest to compete in this year’s event. She finished the 6.2-mile course with a time of 55:59, placing her in the top third for all women runners.
Suhavi Singh
USCHS Students Earn Top Finishes at Model UN Upper St. Clair garnered seven top finishes at the Model UN high school conference, sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh this past October. First Place/Best Delegate Representing China, Syrian Civil War: Isabel Vilensky Second Place Hellenic Parliament — Position Paper: Roshan Mishra Third Place Overall Delegation — Representing Equatorial Guinea: Max Biedrzycki, Prachi Chetlur, Anoushka Barve, Pritika Gupta and Kaia Petrick Economic and Financial Committee (ECOFIN) — Representing China: Shiven Verma and Ian Putorti Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Issues (SOCHUM) — Representing Equatorial Guinea: Anoushka Barve and Pritika Gupta Space Regulation — Position Paper: Rohan Mehta U.S. National Security Council — Position Paper: Will Whitman
Senior Named 2024 Coca-Cola Scholar Finalist Upper St. Clair High School senior Isaac Bernstein was named a 2023–24 Coca-Cola Scholar Regional Finalist. Isaac is one of only three in the Pittsburgh area, 15 in Pennsylvania and 250 in the nation to earn this honor. “This is a huge accomplishment — these students have progressed to the second stage of selection after the review of 1,514 Semifinalists who were chosen from among more than 103,800 applicants hoping to be named CocaCola Scholars this year,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. One hundred fifty Coke Scholars will be named in March to receive a $20,000 college scholarship and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta. Isaac Bernstein Spring 2024
USC Teams Excel at Lit. Fest! This past November, Upper St. Clair students earned a first place and two third place finishes in the South Hills Literary Festival, held at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall in Carnegie. In the high school division, the team of Josh Beitler, Sophia Whitman and Carlee Santel placed first in the book sculpture challenge and third in the Battle of the Books. The Fort Couch team of Seth Pedretti, Will Kreizenbeck, Owen Maher and Max Belczyk took home third in the Battle of the Books middle school division.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
41
PTC
Pawprints...
Council Pamela Scureman, President Thirty years ago, all of the schools had school directories that were usually created by the unit PTAs. Then, during the 1996–97 school year, the individual school directories were consolidated into a district-wide one. To create the directory, the district/school provided a list of information to the chair(s), which was then hand-typed into a computer program by the chair(s), checked for accuracy and sent off to a local printer. The USC PTC is still creating the district-wide directory, with the help of Tina Vojtko, district communications specialist, Kerstin Goodworth, USC PTC directory chairperson, Dr. Lauren Madia, NCC, Director of Pupil Services, the district tech department and many other helpers. Over the years, the process has continually been updated, thankfully! There is now an online app version — Membership Toolkit for quick access on your phone — as well as a print version. Producing the district-wide directory remains time consuming and is a large project to undertake. The USC PTC executive board is thankful for all of the support from Kerstin and the district for enabling Council to continue to provide this very useful tool! High School PTSO Leria Miles, President This past December, the High School Make-A-Wish Club raised more than $1000 through its 11th annual Holiday Hoops basketball tournament. The Make-A-Wish Club plans to continue its fundraising efforts to fund a child’s complete wish.
Team Tauch — Josh Ioli, Marco Carone, Luke Ralyea, Grahm Tauch, Marshall Howe — winners of Holiday Hoops 42
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Fort Couch PTSO Elizabeth Taylor, President Over the years, Fort Couch has served many different roles, from a middle school to a junior high to a high school and then back to a middle school. Not many know this, but the district’s first two graduating classes went to their high school classes at Fort Couch! The current administrative team of Erin Peterson and Gordon Mathews reflected on how Fort Couch has changed over the past decades, evolving in a number of ways, while remaining the same in some areas. Thirty years ago, students visited the computer lab if they wanted to type a paper; now every student has a Chromebook in our 1:1 initiative. Thirty years ago, students walked long narrow hallways to get to their next class; now students’ classrooms are located together in teams. Thirty years ago, student extracurriculars were limited and all were held after school; now students participate in clubs multiple times a month. Thirty years ago, many of our current middle school parents were students here! Although we have highlighted the differences, there are areas where Fort Couch remains unchanged. The PTSO sponsored socials are still highlights for students (albeit the music has changed!), the arts and athletics offerings are robust and round out the Fort Couch opportunity, students still take a yearly field trip to the USC Wetlands — and ping-pong is still a favorite pastime in eighth grade! Most importantly, the critical tenets have remained the same: Fort Couch was, and is still, a school with exceptional staff who truly care about students. —Erin Peterson Boyce PTO Ashlee Lentini, President A lot of exciting things happen in the fifth and sixth grades, and this winter has been no exception. With the implementation of the new CAPS program this year at the middle school level, the students have been spending one quarter of their expressive arts time with Dr. Kelly Pascarella, focusing on community and economy, financial literacy, work and career readiness and business management. The course culminates with a field trip that enables them to apply the knowledge and skills that they learned in a town simulation. The Boyce students continue to make community outreach a priority. Our counselors and students collected a variety of items during the December Friendship Bag project to support the Children’s Home for the coming months. A lucky group of students were selected to visit the Children’s Home to deliver the gift bags from the students! They were so grateful for everything we did to help support their programs. Baker PTA Kelly Meyers, President Baker PTA has been busy for the past 30+ years! Although many things have changed in our school over the years, one thing has certainly remained the same — the wonderfully caring and
... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature
PTC
involved parents and staff members of Baker. Our most-tenured teacher, Frank McFerran, has taught second grade at Baker for the past 35 years (he even did his student teaching here!) and fondly remembers the many students he’s had the privilege of teaching and nurturing over those years. He loves when he runs into former students and seeing how they have grown. Mr. McFerran recalls how the PTA organization of the past is much like our current PTA of today. Baker parents have always been involved and dedicated to ensuring the students receive the best overall experience at Baker. Mr. McFerran’s personal favorite PTA event is the Boo Bash (formerly Baker Caper). One year, he remembers there was even a dunk tank! Looking ahead to this semester, we have a number of fun events coming up. Fan favorites, including Bingo Night, Read-A-Thon and Baker Bedtime Stories, are on the calendar. We are delighted to bring back in-person Baker Bedtime Stories where the students have a fun evening experience at Baker. Students wear their jammies and teachers read stories to them. This semester, we also introduced a new event called the Baker Family Cultural Fair, where families exhibit something from their family’s heritage. And, of course, the ever-popular Baker’s Got Talent Show is sure to entertain everyone this April! On behalf of Baker PTA, thank you for everyone’s support! Eisenhower PTO Jennifer Zofchak, President A lot can change in 30 years! The Eisenhower PTO is no exception. Since the inception of the PTA/PTO, it has always been a mission to enhance our students’ educational experiences by supporting academics and providing enrichment activities, while creating a strong bond between home and school. One way we aim to achieve this goal is by offering our grade level socials! This year, parents joined their students at school for a special evening out. The kindergarten students were amazed by an incredible magician. First grade students were enthralled by a spectacular animal show, while second grade students got to explore “Chemmystery” in a fun show presented by the Carnegie Science Center. Third grade students had a rollicking time at our rodeo-themed event. Later this year, fourth grade students will enjoy all of their end-of-the-year activities including a fourth grade versus staff game or sport, yearbooks, t-shirts and a farewell party. We always look forward to providing additional opportunities that enhance the experience of students and families of the Eisenhower community, and we are truly grateful for the support from students, parents, staff, volunteers and the district to make Eisenhower a wonderful place to be!
the local PTAs, and in return they gave guidance on how to run a meeting, form a committee, etc. But our Streams parents were already a well-oiled machine and voted to switch to a PTO and save the money sent to the national organization and put it towards our school and students. After switching from a PTA to a PTO, we were able to keep our membership fees local to provide more activities for our students. We also have become more “green” over the past 30 years. We now offer more electronic ways to sign up for committees, pay and prepay for activities, sell spirit wear and collect membership fees. We also host our meetings virtually. One thing that remains the same is the PTO’s dedication to the school, students, teachers and families. We aim to strengthen the bond between school and home with the activities that we offer. Some of our favorite activities are our annual Stravaganza, grade level special nights, field trips, ice-cream socials, book fair and spirit nights. Looking ahead to the end of our school year, we look forward to STAR night, field day, Kindergarten Olympics and teacher appreciation week! n
Doors of Upper St. Clair TODAY is happy to share photos of some door signs celebrating USC High School’s student-athletes! We encourage you to send a photo of your favorite doors in Upper St. Clair, whether it’s your student-athlete’s door sign or a neighbor’s welcoming entry. n
To be included in TODAY’s Doors of USC
feature, email your original, high-resolution digital photo of at least 300 dpi, along with a brief description in the body of the email, to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “USC Doors” in the subject line.
Streams PTO Brittany Weiler, President Although a lot has changed within the walls of Streams over the past 30 years, one thing that remains a constant is our PTA/PTO. Roughly 15 years ago, we were a PTA. Membership fees went to the PTA national organization for them to provide support to Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
43
WHERE YOU'RE
MORE THAN A PATIENT Kelly, Mt. Lebanon Proud Mother Former D1 Athlete Severe Heart Failure Survivor
stclair.org
A Heartwarming Journey to Recovery Kelly Calvino is all heart. It’s evident in everything she has done throughout her lifetime. As an athlete: From excelling in gymnastics, volleyball, track and soccer as a student at Whitefish Bay High School in Milwaukee, Wis., to competing as a diver while attending Syracuse University, and then taking up running as an adult. Kelly actually completed more than 12 long distance races while pregnant, with coaching from her mother, who ran through all three of her pregnancies as well. As a nurse: After being introduced to cardiology as a kid due to her father’s career in international cardiovascular sales — and exploring the field further during a college internship — Kelly ultimately pursued a nursing career in mostly cardiovascular and thoracic services. She enjoys both helping patients and interpreting test results. As a mother: Passing on her love of water sports to her three sons, Parker, Emery and Finley, so they could enjoy swimming, water skiing and more as a family. Though they tragically lost Emery following an incident on the water four years ago, Kelly and her husband, Tony, ensured his memory would live on through organ donation and an annual nonprofit fundraising campaign. Because Kelly has always had so much heart to give, she never could have imagined that her heart function would be severely weakened in her late 30s. But she and her family knew something was up when she began experiencing symptoms. “I woke up one afternoon and saw my ankles were extremely swollen. Following my nursing shift, I noticed the swelling had gone up to my knees,” explains Kelly. “Then we had to fly from Pittsburgh to Wisconsin to see family, and I noticed the swelling progressed to my face when we got to my in-laws’ house.” Kelly visited a Wisconsin hospital after her eldest son, Parker, noticed she was struggling to keep up with the family at the airport. Kelly says, “They gave me medicine to temporarily lose water weight so I could breathe better. And while there was indication it was my heart based on test results, they also said it was safe to go home.”
Dr. Pray & Kelly Calvino
When Kelly returned to Pittsburgh, it was her physician assistant neighbor who insisted she visit St. Clair Health for a more thorough evaluation. And that is how Kelly learned she has non-ischemic cardiomyopathy with congestive heart failure. “Most of us probably assume that’s a condition associated with later ages, and so Kelly was understandably taken aback,” says Christopher Pray, MD, Director of Cardiac Imaging and Heart Failure at St. Clair Health. “But we do see patients with weakened heart muscles and congestive heart failure at any age.” “I didn’t really think it was that serious because I didn’t feel sick other than being short of breath. And I didn’t really believe it at first because we have no history of heart disease in our family,” shares Kelly. “I’m so thankful every day that Dr. Pray ordered a bedside echocardiogram and admitted me for additional testing. I really feel like he saved my life.”
“Our collaborative, multidisciplinary approach allowed us to very quickly understand why Kelly was having this problem and set her up for the right course of treatment with four heart failure medications,” explains Dr. Pray. “We’ve watched Kelly’s heart function improve from 21% all the way back up to 45%, which is only mildly weakened, in just a matter of months.” Dr. Pray continues, “It will be an ongoing process to get Kelly back to her normal self, but it’s been very rewarding watching her progress so far. Kelly completed cardiac rehab, continues to tolerate her medications and is back to work.” “I am now running on my own again and want to get my heart function back to normal so I can run one more marathon in the future. I think I’ll get there with guidance from Dr. Pray, along with support and love from Finley, Parker and Tony. They have been a big source of strength through all this,” emphasizes Kelly. n
To make an appointment with Dr. Pray or another St. Clair Medical Group Cardiology provider, please call 412.942.7780. Learn more about the world-class cardiovascular care available to you, close to home, at stclair.org/scmgcardiology. See ad on page 44. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
45
Township Administration
Township Commissioners Daniel R. Paoly President At Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2025*
Matthew R. Serakowski
Mark S. Mansfield
Mark P. Romito
Adam A. Benigni
Director of Finance
Township Manager
Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration
Director of Planning & Community Development
Ed Poljak
George Kostelich, Jr.
Christian Gmiter
Jason Miller
Director of Information Technology
Director of Public Works
Director of Library
Director of Recreation & Leisure Services
Dante R. Plutko Jr. Vice President Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-389-5187 2027*
Pamela L. Enck Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 2025*
Public Safety
Jason H. Graves Ward 3
Day 412-831-9000 2027*
Jonathan Wharton
Ted Hale
Keith Morse
Chief of Police
Fire Chief
Chief of Tri-Community South EMS
To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions.
Todd D. Burlingame Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 2025*
Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2027*
Richard I. Thomas At Large
Day 412-831-9000 2027*
All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete board minutes can be found on the website at twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Other Services Police Administration...........................412-833-1113 Tri-Community South EMS Administration...........................412-831-3710 USC Volunteer Fire Department Administration...........................412-835-0660 Animal Control.........................412-833-7500 Community & Recreation Center...................412-221-1099 Cable 7.......................................412-831-1030 Emergency– Police, Fire, EMS....................412-833-7500
Check out the Township’s website
twpusc.org Follow the Township of Upper St. Clair on social media for the latest news and announcements.
2024 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates
*Date indicates expiration of term.
46
Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski......................... 2160 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield.................................. 2190 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton.................................. 2380 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito....................................... 2180 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni..................................... 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development Ed Poljak......................................................... Director of Information Technology George Kostelich, Jr................................ 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter.................................... 2470 Director of Library Jason Miller............................................. 6560 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services
• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the C&RC; no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Service Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed. • The Library Board meets as needed. Meetings are held in the Municipal Building’s board room, unless otherwise indicated. Meeting locations are subject to change; refer to the Township website at twpusc.org for more information.
Spring 2024
Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings Nov. 6, 2023
Oct. 2, 2023
Approximately four people attended.
Approximately 14 people attended.
Recognitions • Commissioner Orchowski presented a Proclamation to the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department designating Oct. 8–14, 2023, as Fire Prevention Week in Upper St. Clair. • Commissioner Orchowski recognized the following Volunteer Fire Department members for their years of service: Ross Taylor–5 Years, Abbey Scannell–5 Years, Alex Gillespie–5 Years, Michael Chornack–5 Years, Michael Moore–20 Years, Drew Gerlach–25 Years, Jerry Kopach–40 Years and Dan Ferguson–45 Years
The Board • Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0008 — Lifeline Physical Therapy — Conditional Use Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 12-23 Re. PLC23-0008 — LifeLine Physical Therapy — Conditional Use Approval. • Adopted Resolution No. 1753 Re. Approval for a Grant Application through the Department of Community and Economic Development Local Share Account for the Morton Complex/Park Rehabilitation and Development Project.
(l/r) Mike Moore, Ross Taylor, Alex Gillespie, Dan Ferguson, Ted Hale, Jerry Kopach, Commissioner Orchowski
(/r) Fire Chief Ted Hale and Commissioner Orchowski
Dec. 4, 2023
Approximately 20 people attended.
Recognitions • Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation recognizing Hunter Fitzpatrick Maher for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.
(l/r) Mary Maher, Hunter Fitzpatrick Maher, Commissioner Pardini The Board • Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0010 — Morton Fields Complex — Site Plan Approval. • Adopted Bill No. 14-23 Re. PLC23-0010 — Morton Fields Complex — Site Plan Approval.
• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0009 — St. Clair Country Club Golf Building — Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on Jan. 2, 2024. • Adopted Resolution No. 1756 Re. Application for Transfer of Liquor License — Hidden Vine, LLC. • Approved the 2025 — 2035 Comprehensive Plan Consultant Selection of Herber, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. • Adopted Bill No. 15-23 Re. Adoption of the 2024 Proposed Budget. • Approved the following Reappointments to various Volunteer Boards/Commissions. Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board – 3-year term David J. McLean Robert T. Stevens, Jr. Civil Service Board – 3-year term Shon Worner Library Board – 3-year term Barbara Zimmt Park and Recreation Advisory Board – 3-year term Kelly B. Bakayza William O. Barnard Roger Hartung, Chair Diane Morris Planning Commission – 4-year term Yvonne Piecknick, Secretary • Adopted Resolution No. 1757 Re. the reappointment of Gregg R. Zegarelli to the Zoning Hearing Board of the Township of Upper St. Clair.
Spring 2024
The Board • Adopted Bill No. 13-23 Re. PLC23-0011— Brendan Brown Subdivision Plan — Preliminary/Final Subdivision Approval. • Approved Resolution No. 1754 Re. Establish Public Hearing PLC23-1303 — Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Modify the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouse in the RM District Restricted Light Industrial District on Jan. 2, 2024. • Approved Resolution No. 1755 Re. Approval for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application through the Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) Division for the Demolition of 1600 Painters Run Road. • Closed the Public Hearing Re. 2024 Proposed Budget.
Stay up-to-date with all the news and reminders around USC! Sign up for the Township’s email list by scanning the QR code.
Approval of Contracts • Stephenson Equipment, Inc...............$105,378.00 One (1) 10’6” Dump Body Upfit with stainless steel spreader, salt and liquid dispensing system & snowplow (for 2024 International Cab and Chassis) • Sabre Equipment.................................$25,244.00 One (1) Reading Utility Body Upfit with bed liner & ladder jacks (for 2024 Ford F350 Cab & Chassis) • Kubota Tractor Corporation.................$49,998.85 One (1) 2023 Kubota Tractor
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
47
Department of Finance 2024 Budget Highlights
Township Budget Overview The Township’s Board of Commissioners has once again approved a budget with no tax increase. For the 15th consecutive year, the budget keeps tax rates level. The real estate tax millage rate, currently 3.83, has remained flat since 2010. The Township’s earned income tax rate, currently 0.80%, has not changed since 2007. The 2024 budget process began in May, with a focus on balancing new economic realities with the continued commitment to delivering high-quality services. Managing uncertainties, like when products will be delivered, while also ensuring the continued operation of vital services such as maintaining safe roads and clean parks, has proved challenging. Additional burdens have been created by delays in ongoing projects, some attributed to supply chain disruptions and others linked to contractor issues. Despite the challenges, we remain determined in our pursuit of the Township’s strategic goals and commitment to fiscal responsibility. During this budget process, staff has remained mindful of the goal to ensure long-term, sustainable service delivery and operations. This goal also aligns with the Township’s budget philosophy which emphasizes long-term financial planning. The Township’s budget comprises 13 separate funds. The operations of each fund are accounted for by providing a separate set of self-balancing accounts, which include its assets, liabilities, fund equity, revenues and expenditures. This compartmentalization of resources, transactions and statements is necessary to ensure that specific revenue sources are used to finance the specific activities for which they are intended. The Township’s primary operating fund is the General Fund, which is supported by taxes, fees and other revenues. The General Fund includes all operations not required by law, policy or external restriction to be recorded in other funds. Full details are available in the Township’s award-winning budget document, which can be found online at twpusc.org/budget.
and local services taxes. Other revenue consists of permits, fees, fines, service agreements, investment earnings and recreation fees. General Fund revenues are budgeted at $26,651,395 for 2024 – an increase of 5.7% from the 2023 budget. Notable revenue changes include continued growth in earned income tax and sales tax, along with an increase in interest income. The General Fund is projected to end the year with an unassigned fund balance that achieves the Government Finance Officers Association’s recommended fund balance level. Where the Money Goes General Fund operating expenditures are projected to be $19,672,410, which is a 5.7% increase from the 2023 budget. The accompanying chart illustrates how the expenditures are distributed across the major program areas. The Township’s two largest programs are Public Safety and Public Works, which combine to represent 73% of the operating portion of the General Fund budget. This includes Refuse Collection, a cost that increased 28% for 2024. The remaining difference of budgeted revenues over operating expenses of $6,978,985 will be used to fund debt service costs of $3,039,913, and transfers to other funds of $3,939,072.
Where the Money Comes From The Township’s primary sources of operating revenue in 2024 continues to be earned income tax and real estate tax. These taxes combine to make up roughly 78% of total General Fund revenues. The balance of operating revenue is comprised of other taxes and other revenue. Other taxes include real estate transfer, sales & use
For more information, visit twpusc.org. Capital Projects Fund
The Capital Projects Fund accounts for most of the Township’s major equipment purchases and capital projects and is based largely upon the five-year Capital Improvements Program. The largest item in this fund for 2024 is the Morton Fields Complex renovation. Funding for the project is budgeted to come from a combination of grants and bond proceeds. Additional items in the Capital Projects Fund will be covered by a combination of grants, General Fund transfers and the portion of fund balance that is specifically assigned for Capital Reserve. Other significant items in this fund for 2024 are $2,000,000 for the annual Street Improvement Program and $1,750,000 for a new fire truck. 48
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Department of Finance 2023 and 2024 General Fund Budget
GENERAL FUND APPROPRIATIONS
GENERAL FUND REVENUES Major Revenues
2023 Budget
2024 Budget
Increase Percentage (Decrease) Change
Real Estate Tax $8,757,750 $8,688,250 $(69,500) (0.79%) Earned Income Tax 10,987,000 11,975,000 988,000 8.99% Local Services Tax 313,250 350,000 36,750 11.73% Real Estate Transfer Tax 1,600,000 1,445,000 (155,000) (9.69%) Public Utilities Tax 18,500 17,500 (1,000) (5.41%) Local Option Sales & 637,000 748,000 111,000 17.43% Use Tax Licenses and Permits 142,050 153,100 11,050 7.78% Fees and Fines 479,900 450,550 (29,350) (6.12%) Rental Income 3,040 3,131 91 2.99% Investment Earnings 110,000 550,000 440,000 400.00% Service Agreements 301,019 305,169 4,150 1.38% Other Non-Tax Revenue 1,465,945 1,439,795 (26,150) (1.78%) Recreation Fees 405,000 525,900 120,900 29.85% Total Revenues Fund Balance Total Major Revenues
$25,220,454 $26,651,395 $1,430,941 -
5.67% 0.00%
$25,220,454 $26,651,395 $1,430,941
5.67%
Major Program Areas
2023 Budget
2024 Budget
Increase Percentage (Decrease) Change
General Government $2,275,406 $2,342,536 Public Safety 6,657,581 6,960,441 Community Development 883,060 915,085 Public Works 5,456,148 5,408,850 Refuse Collection 1,569,500 2,010,000 Recreation & Leisure Services 624,450 743,920 Library 951,089 1,045,168 Unallocated Insurance Costs 201,175 246,410 Operating Expenditures $18,618,409 $19,672,410 Operating Transfers 4,758,888 3,939,072 Debt Service Payments 1,843,157 3,039,913 Non-Operating Expenditures $6,602,045 $6,978,985 Total Expenditures $25,220,454 $26,651,395 Fund Balance Total Major Programs $25,220,454 $26,651,395
$67,130 2.95% 302,860 4.55% 32,025 3.63% (47,298) (0.87%) 440,500 28.07% 119,470 19.13% 94,079 9.89% 45,235 22.49% $1,054,001 5.66% (819,816) (17.23%) 1,196,756 64.93% $376,940
5.71%
$1,430,941 $1,430,941
5.67% 0.00% 5.67%
Boyce Mayview Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) Fund Membership levels at the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) hit new highs in 2023, but wages and general inflation continue to pressure the operating budget in several areas. Additionally, maintenance needs are growing with the aging of the facility, which increases the cost of operations. This is reflected in the 2024 Budget, which has overall operating costs increasing by 6.7% over 2023. Capital expenses planned for 2024 include the routine replacement of fitness, technology and aquatics equipment, an HVAC unit replacement and upgrades to the ductwork and lighting within the indoor aquatics area. Membership revenue for 2024 is budgeted at $3,520,000, which anticipates a small increase in membership rates. Other operating revenue sources in the C&RC Fund include facility
2024 Real Estate Tax Notice and Payment Schedule
The Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District hereby give public notice to all Township real estate taxpayers of the payment schedule of each taxing body for the year 2024. The Township’s real estate tax millage rate for 2024 has been set at 3.83 mills. The School District’s schedule is dependent upon its adoption of a real estate tax millage rate for the 2024–2025 fiscal year no later than June 2024.
rental revenue, program revenue, daily admissions and miscellaneous revenue. These sources are budgeted to total $695,000 in 2024. The General Fund will appropriate $1,181,856 to the C&RC Fund for debt service costs associated with the construction of the C&RC building and $654,461 to support the common area operations of the C&RC. n Distributed Costs, $313,779
General Fund Debt Service Appropriation, $1,181,856 General Fund Operating Appropriation, $654,461 Other Revenue, $295,500
Debt Service, $1,181,856 Membership Revenue, $3,520,000
Commodities, $386,950
Personal Services, $2,924,007
Contractual Services, $1,343,650
Program Revenue, $399,500
2024 Township Real Estate Tax Schedule Date Tax Period May 1, 2024 ........................................Billing date May 1–Jun 30, 2024 ...........................2% discount Jul 1–Aug 31, 2024 .............................Face amount Sep 1–Dec 31, 2024 ............................10% penalty Jan 1, 2025 .........................................Lien date 2024 School District Real Estate Tax Schedule Date Tax Period Jul 1, 2024 ..........................................Billing date Jul 1–Aug 31, 2024 .............................2% discount Sep 1–Oct 31, 2024 ............................Face amount Nov 1–Dec 31, 2024 ...........................10% penalty Jan 1, 2025..........................................Lien date Spring 2024
This notice reminds all taxpayers that they are responsible to see that their property is properly assessed and taxed, and to request 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 receive the 2% discount or avoid the 10% penalty. n Cont. on page 50
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
49
Department of Finance 2024 Highlights
Department of Finance Cont. from page 49
2024 Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Rate Notice 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 2024 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 2024 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 1.30% rate, and must remit their tax liability quarterly to Jordan Tax Service on the following schedule for 2024: Date Tax Period Apr 15, 2024 ....... 1st quarter 2024 tax estimate due Jul 15, 2024 ........ 2nd quarter 2024 tax estimate due Oct 15, 2024 ....... 3rd quarter 2024 tax estimate due Jan 15, 2025 ........ 4th quarter 2024 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 2023 tax year are due April 15, 2024. n
2024 Upper St. Clair Township Sewer User Multiplier Rate The Township of Upper St. Clair hereby gives public notice to all Township sewer users that ALCOSAN has raised sewage service charges and usage fees by 7% for 2024. The Sewer User Multiplier Rate that is used to calculate the Township’s cost reimbursement has been set at 1.68 for the year. The Township contracts with Jordan Tax Service to provide the billing and collection of the monthly sewer usage fees. n
50
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Sanitary Sewer Fund The Township’s Sanitary Sewer Fund (SSF) accounts for all sewer usage fees paid by residents, and the expenses related to sewage process- Depreciation & ing and maintenance of the sanitary Debt Service, sewer system. Sewage processing is Other $1,099,325 performed by ALCOSAN, the com- Operating pany that bills the Township for Expense, the service. ALCOSAN has once $806,180 Sewer again increased its fees by 7% for Processing the year, but the Township’s sewer Sewer (ALCOSAN), rate multiplier is being reduced Rehabilitation, $5,732,000 $1,725,000 from 1.80 to 1.68 to fully absorb that increase. The ALCOSAN expense remains the largest cost in the SSF budget (see “Sewer Processing Fees” in the accompanying chart). The remainder of the sewer fee revenue is used to rehabilitate the Township’s sanitary sewer infrastructure, and provide other services related to satisfying all regulatory requirements that have been and will be imposed regarding sanitary sewer improvement and maintenance. n For more information, visit twpusc.org. 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.
Township Welcomes Jason Graves as New Commissioner This January, Jason H. Graves was sworn-in as a Township commissioner, beginning a four-year term that will end on Dec. 31, 2027. He previously served more than four years on the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. A five-year resident of USC, Jason works as a project manager for a manufacturing company while his wife, Bridget, who is a lifelong USC resident, works at St. Thomas Moore Church. Jason and Bridget have three children, two boys and one girl — Bracken, Liam and Brielle. Jason is a United States Army Veteran and graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in business. Jason replaces Robert W. Orchowski as Ward 3’s commissioner. Orchowski did not run for re-election after 26 years of service on the board — making him the longest serving commissioner in Township history. He was honored for his years of service in December during his final Graves Family meeting as a commissioner. n Spring 2024
Township Flood Services and Protection Upper St. Clair participates in the National Flood Insurance
Program’s (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from community actions that meet the three goals of the CRS: • Reduce flood damage to insurable property, • Strengthen and support the insurance aspects of the NFIP, and • Encourage a comprehensive approach to floodplain management. In order to protect your home or business from flood damage, it is important to access and understand flood hazard information. A complete Flood Protection Library, including flood maps and flood protection references, is available at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. Localized flooding can result from even minor storms. Runoff overloads the drainageways and flows into the streets and low-lying areas. Sewers back up; yards are inundated. These minor storms could potentially cause more damage as they are most likely recurring, and small impacts accumulated over time can become major problems. A few factors to consider: • Even shallow flooding can pose safety hazards. It is not unusual for children to drown after slipping in shallow water or to be swept into a ditch or storm drain. Adults and even vehicles can be swept away by just a few inches of moving water. • The growth of mold and mildew in damp structures after flooding could contribute to allergies, asthma and respiratory infections, especially in children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. In addition, gasoline, pesticides, fuel oil, chemicals and other substances can be brought into the area and into buildings by flood waters. They soak into the soil, building components and furniture and can result in long-term health problems. • Even a few inches of water in the basement or ground floor of a building can cause expensive damage. Carpeting, wallboard, insulation, mattresses and upholstered furniture must be thrown out and replaced. Flooring, studs and other wooden parts of the building must be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Business records, photographs and other papers are often destroyed. • Flood waters can block streets, disrupt traffic patterns and hinder access to homes and businesses. This can affect the entire community, not just those whose property is flooded. People have to evacuate wet and/or damaged homes, and businesses have to close. Cleanup and repairs take time away from normal routines, interrupting lives and business operations. 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 or throw anything into creeks, ditches, ravines or streams. Dumping is a violation of Section 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. • If you see evidence of dumping of debris in creeks or ditches, contact the Township. • Always check with the Community Development Department before you build, alter, grade or fill on your property. A permit may be needed to ensure that projects do not cause problems on the other properties. If you are in a floodplain, special building codes may apply. The Community Development Department will walk you through any application and answer your questions. If you see building or filling without a Township permit posted, contact the Community Development Department at 412-831-9000, ext. 5010. • Help yourself by understanding floodproofing, flood insurance and flood safety.
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. It is backed by the federal government and is available to all residents, even for property outside a floodplain. Any property could be flooded. 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 Environmental Protection Agency (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. Check the Township’s website on a regular basis for updates on stormwater management and flood protection in addition to the steps the Township is taking to meet the federal requirements to keep Upper St. Clair a safe place to reside. Sanitary Sewer Lateral Inspection Ordinance The Township has an ordinance that requires video inspections of private sanitary sewer laterals prior to the sale/conveyance of property. Sewer lateral inspections must be conducted by a National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO) certified contractor. The adopted ordinance supports the inspection, repair and replacement of private sanitary sewer laterals that are cracked, disjointed, damaged or blocked in order to reduce the amount of stormwater penetrating the sanitary sewer system. The influx of stormwater into the sanitary sewer system increases the wastewater flow in the collection system and could potentially lead to sanitary sewer overflows during wet weather conditions. To order the Dye Test and Sanitary Sewer Lateral Inspection paperwork, contact the Department of Public Works at 412-831-9000, ext. 2710. The completed forms and video of the inspection must be remitted to the Public Works Department at least one month prior to closing, along with a $50 fee made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair to cover the cost of the dye test and sanitary sewer lateral inspection evidence of compliance letter. A copy of the ordinance can be found on the Township website at twpusc.org. This information is published annually as part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System recertification and is also available on the Township website at twpusc.org.
Sanitary Sewer Backups and Your Homeowner’s Coverage The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer lines. There is no way to predict when the next sanitary sewer backup will occur. And while only a handful of USC residents experience a significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating if a resident is not insured for losses — losses that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Sewer Backup Insurance Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences. Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage. Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, ext. 2710. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
51
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PROTECTION Things to Know About Firefighting and the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department Ted Hale, Fire Chief
It is safe to say that no one plans on crashing their car or
having a fire in their residence. But when one of these situations occurs, it’s a relief to know that the members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department (USCVFD) have been trained and are here to help. In 1736, Benjamin Franklin (Father of the Fire Service) founded the first volunteer fire company of its kind in the United States: the Union Fire Company in Philadelphia, Pa. The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department was formed in 1939 and continues to serve the Township’s residents today. Most people don’t know much more about the department other than when they call for help, the USCVFD is there. Here is a bit of insight into firefighting and the USCVFD. Most firefighters have other jobs. Volunteering as a firefighter is something you’ll take pride in for the rest of your life, but something must pay the bills. Being a volunteer firefighter doesn’t stop you from pursuing other careers — in fact, the two can work together. Our volunteers are business executives, pilots, engineers, electricians, business owners, students and the list goes on. Sometimes, volunteering can parallel with your other lifework. For example, teachers sign up because they can be good role models to kids and talk to them about safety. Inspectors and engineers have a lot of career knowledge that helps them make quick calculations. You may be surprised at how many careers are relevant.
52
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
It’s nearly impossible to see anything inside a burning building. Firefighting is much different than what you see on television or in the movies. Producers make you think that there are bright flames flickering and the room is clearly illuminated, making it easy to find trapped people inside. In real life, that’s not how it looks. Sometimes smoke creates a zero-visibility situation in a matter of minutes, and firefighters must navigate through the heat and smoke by using the skills they have gained through rigorous training. They also use specialized equipment, such as a thermal imaging camera, to assist them in searches for victims or fires. Most calls aren’t for fires. Actual fires make up a small fraction of our call volume. As a firefighter, you never know what services are going to be requested of you. Some calls we respond to are automatic fire alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, motor vehicle accidents with fluids on the roadway or a person trapped in the vehicle, hazardous materials incidents, assisting with the search for a missing person and more. It’s all part of the excitement of being a firefighter. The fire department is not all men. The fire service has changed drastically over the years, and it is not uncommon to find females on the fireground. The USCVFD currently has three female firefighters. It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, young or old, muscular or not, you would be surprised what you can do when you enjoy doing something. We try and create a family atmosphere and we encourage every single person who walks through our door. It’s a physically demanding job, but equipment is lighter than it once was, making the job that much better for both men and women. When you get that call for help and your adrenaline is rushing, you don’t really feel the weight on you anyway.
Not everyone has to fight fires. Everyone has something to offer. You don’t have to ever step foot into a burning building or climb a ladder to be a member of the USCFVD. It’s a business, and we need people to run the administrative side of things just as much as we need people to drag a hose line into a burning building. Members can assist with office work, fire prevention, public service details and more. Firefighters become one big family. Members put in many hours and work together through high-pressure situations, and it doesn’t take long for members to form a tight bond. When you become part of the USCVFD, you and your family become an extension of our family. If someone is getting married or having a child, the rest of the station gets involved and helps where and how they can. Sense of Pride. The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment when you’re able to assist a person in need is overwhelming. Members train and prepare for weeks and months for their first incident. Normally, all it takes is one experience on an emergency scene and you are hooked for life. Being a volunteer is a big commitment and can be a lot of hard work, but it’s rewarding and no matter who you are, that feeling you get from helping people makes that commitment and hard work worth it. What to do if you are interested. If you have ever thought about becoming a firefighter but are not sure if it’s for you, you can be part of our Citizens Fire Academy. The citizens fire academy is a seven-week public education class to provide residents and business owners with a free opportunity to learn how the department operates. Firefighters teach every class, covering topics such as engine and truck company operations, rescue techniques, fire extinguishers, fire prevention, public education and emergency medical services. Participants leave the academy with a real feel for the job, thanks to the hands-on demonstrations and opportunities to accompany firefighters on actual fire calls. Get an application for the Citizens Fire Academy or an application for membership by visiting the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Station, located at 2001 Washington Rd., or download an application on our website at uscvfd.com. n
On the Passing of Nora Helfrich Keith Morse, Chief of Tri-Community South EMS
This past fall, Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) and the entire EMS community mourned the passing of a true pioneer in EMS, former TCS Director Nora Helfrich. Nora retired from TCS in late 2021 after 42 years of service to TCS EMS. She started as a volunteer, then became a part-time employee before moving to a full-time role. She was later promoted to a supervisor position and was eventually named the director of TCS EMS in 2000. With a firm and steady hand, she guided TCS to some of its most prosperous years. While she held her staff to a high standard, she took an interest in every one of their lives and cherished the personal connections with her staff. Her accolades cannot be understated. In 2006, TCS became only the second EMS service in Pennsylvania to become CAAS certified, a designation it still holds today. In 2007, TCS was named Ambulance Service of the Year by the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council. TCS was also home to one of the highest-volume American Heart Association Community Training Center’s (CTC) in the country. Nora used the CTC as a tool to drive her passion for educating the public. Through partnerships with the Bethel Park, South Park and Upper St. Clair school districts, students and educators were trained in CPR. She hosted EMS students from Australia, South Korea, Norway, Qatar, Ireland, Germany, Canada, Nigeria, Argentina, China, Iceland and Finland. Throughout her career, she won numerous awards, including EMS Champion from the Allegheny County EMS Council in 2009 and 2023, the Dr. George Moerkik Memorial Contribution to EMS in 2020 and the Sugar and Mac Fine Memorial EMS Leadership Award from the Pennsylvania EMS Providers Foundation in September 2023. Her influence can still be felt at TCS, in Allegheny County and the entire state. She will never be replaced and will be sadly missed. n
Nora Helfrich with Commissioner Ron Pardini (left) and former Commissioner Mark Christie (right) Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
53
From the Director’s Desk Chris Gmiter, Library Director
Vanessa’s Legacy: Honoring 25 Years of Dedication at the Heart of the Library By the time this issue of TODAY goes to press, Vanessa Ryzner, our beloved Circulation Coordinator, will have retired after 25 years of dedicated service. In many ways, Vanessa was the heart of our library. Vanessa had an absolute mastery of the library’s automated borrowing system that is used to circulate items, place requests for patrons and register and renew borrower accounts. If you had a question, Vanessa had the answer. Vanessa ensured that our collection was wellappointed, accessible and on display. She personally trained staff to her own high standards of courtesy and helpfulness. When I started here in 2020, she took me under her wing. I’ll always be grateful for how she made me feel welcome. To Vanessa, the library wasn’t just a job, it was a calling. In March 1998, after a career as a stay-at-home mom (and school volunteer) to her two sons, Vanessa answered an ad in The Almanac and started working here as a library assistant at the children’s circulation desk. At that time, the library had 32 staff members and a dozen volunteers. “I was looking for a part-time job,” she remembers. “I volunteered at my sons’ elementary school library and thought working here would be a good fit.” Thankfully for us here at the library, it was. Soon, Vanessa was working full-time at the desk. In 2008, she was promoted to circulation coordinator for the entire library. Since then, she’s been responsible for staff training, adult scheduling, circulation problem resolution (including overdue and lost/damaged books), supervising and training adult volunteers, assisting Friends of the Library members and maintaining the library’s aesthetically pleasing appearance. While Vanessa’s duties remained constant, technology has changed dramatically. “When I started here, people came to the library to borrow physical books and attend programs,” 54
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
she states. “Today, they also use digital lending platforms for e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines. They access databases remotely. They come in to use our computers and get help with job searches, tax and health information and entrepreneurial support,” she adds. “Many patrons also want help navigating and evaluating all the digital information that’s out there.” What hasn’t changed? “I’m happy to report that the one constant is our collection. It’s still timely and excellent after all these years,” she says. Throughout her tenu r e , Va n e s s a h a s worked with three directors, all of whom (she feels) put their own distinct and positive stamp on the library’s collection and culture. As to how she’ll spend her time when she’s not working behind-the-scenes at the library, she says, “I’m looking forward to being a fulltime grandmother. While I’ll miss my work friends, I will not miss packing a lunch every day.” Her one wish to all our patrons is heartfelt. “I urge everyone in the Township to continue to support the library. Thanks to you, it’s a welcoming space with so much to offer — whether you’re a teenager, a parent of small children, a retiree like me or someone in between.” I’d like to share a recent interaction between Vanessa and me. I was shifting books to be delivered to other libraries in a shipping bin one morning. A coworker said, “What are you doing?” I explained that I was arranging the materials in the bin so that items wouldn’t move around in transit. Vanessa was nearby and said, “I taught him well.” Yes, you did, Vanessa. You have taught all of us well and we are better as a staff as a result. Congratulations from all of us on this next stage of your life. We’ll miss you immensely, but promise to continue your legacy of care for the collection, our patrons and each other. —Chris
Kids Library
On Your Mark, Get Set, Read! Upper St. Clair Township Kids & Teens Library is pleased to offer its “Books Before” reading programs for all ages. From preschoolers to high schoolers, “Books Before” programs encourage literacy and library use across all ages. And we will reward you for your good library habits! Read more below, and visit twpusc.org/libraryreadingprograms for more information and to sign up. 1000 Books Before Kindergarten: Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers Take the next steps towards early literacy with the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program. Read a book, any book, to your infant, toddler or preschooler. The goal is to read 1000 books before your child enters kindergarten. This goal, while seemingly impossible, is possible! If you read just one book a night, you will have read 365 books in one year — and, if you read one book multiple times, that counts as well! Participants will receive a commemorative tote bag when they read 50 books, and a pin to place upon the tote every time they read 100 books. Once completed, participants will receive a certificate of completion. All books read in this program are tracked using the website/app Beanstack. 500 Books Before Middle School: Kindergarteners to 4th Graders Students in kindergarten through fourth grade can challenge themselves by reading 500 books before middle school. All participants will track their reading through the website/app Beanstack. Participants will receive a commemorative tote bag when they read 50 books, and a pin to place upon the tote every time they read 100 books. Once completed, participants will receive a certificate of completion and an honor book will be added to our library’s collection in their name. 100 Books Before High School: 5th to 8th Graders Tweens and teens in grades five through eight can participate in the 100 Books Before High School challenge. Following the same format as the 500 Books Before Middle School program, participants will track their books using the website/app Beanstack. Participants will get to choose a prize for every 50 books they read. Upon completion, participants will receive a tote bag, certificate of completion and an honor book will be added to our library’s collection in their name. 50 Books Before Graduation: 9th to 12th Graders Teens in ninth through 12th grades can participate in the 50 Books Before Graduation challenge. Like our other “Books Before…” challenges, participants will track their reading using the website/app Beanstack. Participants will get to choose a prize for every 10 books they read. Upon completion, participants will receive a tote bag, certificate of completion and an honor book will be added to the library’s collection in their name. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
55
Adult Programs Wild PA Part 1 Zoom Event Wednesday, March 13, 2024 6–7 p.m. Join our Wild PA series, an exploration of our region’s living things and how they interact to create an exciting ecosystem! Fur, feathers, scales and leaves — we share this land with the green, furry, scaly and flighted. In this session, we will explore some of our most common plant and animal neighbors in Western Pennsylvania, plus create mini take-home herbaria and animal track models.
Wild PA Part 2 In-Person Event Wednesday, March 20 6:30–7:30 p.m. Tiny organisms in a big world — trees and bears may be easy to spot, but teeny, tiny residents help keep the cycle of life going. In this session, we will learn about some of the fungi, lichen and microbes that live and play important roles all around us (plus set up an experiment for next time)! This event takes place in the library multipurpose room. Wild PA Part 3 In-Person Event Wednesday, March 27 6:30–7:30 p.m. Biodiversity: Putting it All Together — wild communities rely on the interconnections between the living and non-living components of our natural world. We all need food, water, shelter and space, and we rely on the complex web of diverse ecosystems to keep nature’s jobs all functioning properly. In this session, we will explore all those interconnections and look at the role of biodiversity in making 56
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
one wild world wonderful. This event takes place in the library multi-purpose room.
Notorious Pittsburgh In-Person Event Wednesday, April 3 6:30–8 p.m. Join local author and historian Chris Whitlatch as he discusses his book “Notorious Pittsburgh.” Hopes have been crushed. Fortunes gained. Lives celebrated while others were snuffed out too soon. In the shadows, where corners are cut, and ambition unchecked — that is where the notorious stories live. Step into the dark alleyways, back rooms and even board rooms with the author as he recounts Pittsburgh’s seedier past. “Notorious Pittsburgh” features more than 20 stories, including Pittsburgh’s first bank robbery, a famous jailbreak, as well as several stories from our former red-light district and the prohibition era. This event takes place in the library multi-purpose room. Retrain Your Brain: How to Banish Anxiety and Other Forms of Negative Self Talk In-Person Event Thursday, April 11 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Your 60,000 daily thoughts are tremendously powerful. They can create anxiety or optimism… well-being or depression… do good or do damage. In short, what you think about, you bring about. So, if your thoughts are habitually negative, you are sabotaging yourself and pulling yourself downward. The good news: it is never too late to retrain your brain and take charge of your brain’s power grid. When you change your thoughts, you change your life! This event takes place in the multi-purpose room at the library. Eileen Colianni, MS, is a mental health counselor who speaks Spring 2024
often at libraries and churches to share what she has learned from 30 years of counseling normal people with normal problems. She was the founding director of Carlow University’s Counseling Center.
Bridging the Decades: Little-used Genealogy Clues From the Census Zoom Event Wednesday, April 17 6:30–8 p.m. You found your ancestors in census records — now what? Did you find all the hidden pointers to other records? Explore methods, records and techniques to further genealogical research. In this session, the audience will learn how to pick apart U.S. census data for each year to glean all the genealogical clues that lead to further research. Using one family through all the census years from 1950 back to 1790 will highlight the good genealogical method of moving one generation back into the past from the known to the unknown. Practical advice is given on where to find records from the clues buried deep in the census and how to interpret them in their historical context. Warnings against common mistakes that create brick walls will also be discussed. Mindfulness: The Art of Living in the Present Moment In-Person Event Thursday, April 18 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Learn to stop living in the past or focusing on the future. Join us as we learn to see the extraordinary in the ordinary and realize that now, this moment, is where actual living occurs. This event takes place in the library multi-purpose room.
Adult Programs Closet Organizing with Inspired Closets In-Person Event Wednesday, April 24 6:30–7:30 p.m. Join Inspired Closets Pittsburgh for a conversation about maximizing your storage and calming the clutter in your home. Award-winning closet designer Jenna Shock and business owner Logan McKee will be joining us for an evening discussing closets and organization tips, tricks and best practices to help you make the most of the space that you have in your home. This event takes place in the library multi-purpose room.
trauma, asphalt burials, street pumas and romantic trespassing…all in USC! This event takes place in the library multipurpose room. Gangs and Outlaws of Western Pennsylvania In-Person Event Wednesday, May 15 6:30–8 p.m. Join author and historian Thomas White as he explores western Pennsylvania’s criminal history. Hear the stories of the Flathead Gang and the first armored car robbery, Pittsburgh’s first bank heist and Glenn and Irene — the area’s own Bonnie and Clyde. Learn about the notorious Cooley Gang who terrified Fayette County in the 1890s, the escape of the Biddle Boys and many other tales of the region’s dark side. This event takes place in the library multi-purpose room.
Try-It Tuesdays In-Person Events March 12 | April 9 | May 14 11:30 a.m.–1p.m. Try-It Tuesday, with local artist Judé Ernest, is a regular monthly USC Library Adult in-person art program. Each Try-It program is “Make-It and Take-It” and is specially developed to provide an introduction and the fundamentals for creating a variety of crafts. All sessions are limited to 15 participants. If you are registered and unable to make it, please cancel ahead of time to allow for more participants. A $5 donation is suggested. These events will take place in the library multi-purpose room.
USC Township Library Hours
Wildflower Hike with Allegheny County Parks In-Person Event Friday, April 26 11:30 a.m.–1p.m. Join the park rangers for a walk in the woods to look for spring wildflowers. Learn about which bloom first and which bloom last, as well as where to find different species. Meeting location TBD. Limited to 20 people. The Lighter Side of USC Humorous Storytelling In-Person Event Wednesday, May 8 6:30–7:30 p.m. Spend an evening with USC resident Jay Lynch, the author of “The Lighter Side of USC,” a compilation of humorous short stories that have appeared in USC TODAY magazine for the past 10 years. Jay will share stories and photos from his “Wonder Years”-style childhood in USC in the 1960s and ’70s. Even if you didn’t grow up in USC, you’re sure to get a giggle or two. Join us to learn about unintentional body surfing, musical backflips, classroom electrocutions, backstop bravado, teacher
Monday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Tuesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday: Closed
Outside book and video return available 24/7 Library hours are subject to change; call or visit the library’s website for hours of operation.
412-835-5540 twpusc.org/library
Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.
Your donation and purchases at the Book Sale Corner make it possible for the Friends to sustain the library’s improvements and programs. There are several ways to contribute: • Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or Juvenile Circulation Desk • Mail your check with the attached form to the library
Name:______________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________________________ Phone:______________________________________________________________ EmaiI:______________________________________________________________ By providing my email address, I agree to receive occasional updates from the Upper St. Clair Library.
Donation amount: [ ] $10 [ ] $25* [ ] $50* [ ] $100* [ ] Other:______________________ Make your check payable to the Friends of the Library of USC. Your donation is tax-deductible. * Donate $25 or more to receive a punch card valid for five free books from the Book Sale Corner.
Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
57
TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR
WE ARE HIRING Lifeguard Soak up the sun while supervising swimming activities and ensuring safety guidelines. Not yet certified? Check our Lifeguard Certification Schedule for classes!
Camp Counselor Organize, & implement age appropriate games & activities. Supervise & care for campers and enjoy having nights & weekends off.
BENEFIT
BENEFIT
Team environment Competitive wage Access to C&RC amenities
Fitness Attendant Fitness Instructor Tennis/Golf Attendant Guest Relations Swim Instructor Playroom Associate Event Attendant
BENEFIT Monday – Friday
No nights or weekends
No nights or weekends
Experience working with youth Access to C&RC amenities
Certification reimbursement
APPLY TODAY 58
Other Part Time Positions
Gain invaluable experience by learning construction, maintenance & general labor. Enjoy steady hours and NO nights or weekends! Great for high school grads & college students!
Monday – Friday
Competitive wage Flexible schedule
Summer Laborer
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Competitive wage Build your resume Enjoy the outdoors
Join our team this summer!
www.twpusc.org/employment Spring 2024
EEO
Jason Miller Named New Director of Recreation and Leisure Services This past November , Jason Miller was named the Township’s new director of Recreation and Leisure Services. Former director Paul Besterman will maintain a key role in the Recreation Department in a senior strategic advisor position. Miller comes to Upper St. Clair from the University of Pittsburgh, where he served for 12 years as the associate director of wellness and recreation programs and assistant director of facilities. “Thank you to the Township administration, staff and community members for welcoming me into this role,” said Miller. “Supporting positive health, lifestyle and the well-being of others is my passion. I’m honored and excited to serve the Upper St. Clair community alongside an outstanding team of talented and dedicated individuals.” While at Pitt, Miller provided administrative and strategic leadership for a department of 15 professional staff members and more than 250 student employees, while serving a community of nearly 50,000 students, faculty, staff and external partners. Miller was heavily involved with the design, development and construction oversight of the new Campus and Recreation
Wellness Center at Pitt, set to be completed in 2025. In addition, Miller oversaw the development and delivery of all wellness and recreation related programs, including but not limited to intramurals, club sports, group fitness, personal training, outdoor pursuits and special events. He jointly oversaw the management of all facilities and Jason Miller operations, comprising more than 10 buildings and over 700,000 square feet of property. While at Pitt, he facilitated and organized on-campus events, introduced new marketing and communications strategies to increase community engagement and feedback, expanded core programs and co-led the development and expansion of Thrive @ Pitt, an initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the wellbeing of the university community. Prior to joining Pitt, Miller served as the aquatics director at Central York School District and as the assistant aquatics director at the Harrisburg Area YMCA. n
911 EMS Calls Dispatch Changes Effective January 2024 Beginning in early January, Tri-Community South (TCS) EMS, which handles medical emergencies and serves Bethel Park, South Park and Upper St. Clair, is now dispatched directly by Allegheny County 911. Allegheny County 911 now takes all emergency calls and directly dispatches TCS EMS. In addition, TCS EMS operates jointly on a shared channel with its adjoining mutual aid services, providing enhanced engagement with neighboring response agencies. As in the past, the Upper St. Clair Dispatch
Center continues to operate as a ringdown center and receives and dispatches police and fire while maintaining the personal point of contact at the municipal building for its residents. Allegheny County 911 simultaneously transfers the call to the Upper St. Clair Dispatch Center, which sends any necessary support services, including police and/ or fire. This revised dispatching is expected to be seamless and allows for improved
operations. The caller for emergency services will notice no difference in call taking and dispatching. For all other emergency or nonemergency services, residents can still dial 412-833-7500, which will send you to the Upper St. Clair Dispatch Center. Whether you call 911 or 412-833-7500, you will still get an emergency dispatcher rendering services you need in a timely manner. n
Emergency: 911 or 412-833-7500 (USC Police Dispatch) USC Police Administration (answers Mon.–Fri. between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.): 412-833-1113
New Upper St. Clair Police Officer Sworn In On Oct. 10, 2023, Daniel Patrick was sworn-in by District Judge Ronald Arnoni as an Upper St. Clair police officer. Patrick graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in criminology. Prior to joining the USCPD, Patrick served as an officer
in the University of Pittsburgh Police Department for two years. Before that, he worked for Elizabeth Borough PD and Highmark PD. The Township of Upper St. Clair welcomes Officer Patrick and wishes him a safe and successful career. n
(l/r) Township Manager Matthew Serakowski, Lt. Michael Ventura, Lt. Michael Lindenfelser, Officer Dan Patrick, Chief of Police Jonathan Wharton, Judge Ronald Arnoni, Assistant Township Manager Mark Mansfield Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
59
USC Recreation and
OR TEN O D
S NI
OU T
twpusc.org
PE
RM
LE
March 18, 2024
IT SA
The most up-to-date details and registration information for recreation programs can be found at twpusc.org/recreationcenter. Questions? Call 412-221-1099
THREE-HOLE GOLF COURSE
op e ni ng soon
BECOME A LIFEGUARD March 22-24, 2024 April 12-14, 2024
May 31- June 2, 2024
N PASS
E
Begins
AL
SEA
O
S
S
May 10-12, 2024
Friday 4 PM-9 PM
March 18, 2024
Saturday 1 PM- 8 PM Sunday 1 PM- 8 PM
60
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Leisure Services 412-221-1099
SAVE THE DATE MAY 18, 2024
TWPUSC.ORG/COMMUNITYDAY
Become a member at the Community & Recreation Center!
3-Month & Annual Contracts Senior, Adult, Youth and Family Memberships Available Questions? Contact the membership department at 412-221-1099 Ext. 6220
WE’RE HIRING SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION
NOW OPEN!
TWPUSC.O RG /SU MM ERCA MP
APPLY
TODAY
CAMP COUNSELORS LIFEGUARDS SWIM LESSON INSTRUCTORS GUEST RELATIONS - OUTDOOR POOL
twpusc.org/employment Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
61
USC Recreation and Leisure Services Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens The Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens finished strong in 2023 with a variety of fun-filled activities, from a fall train ride and winery visit to celebrating the holiday season! USCHS Honors Jazz Band gave a wonderful holiday performance A visit from Santa
If you’re age 55 or older and retired, consider joining the group, which meets most Wednesdays at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC), located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Rd. Informal activities begin at 10 a.m., with members holding a brief business meeting at noon, followed by lunch. In addition, there are various outings throughout the year. n
In October, a fall train ride and winery visit
Friends of South Park Buffalo Preserve gave a presentation about the buffalo, explaining the members of the buffalo family, how they are fed and how the herd grew in the habitat that is located in Allegheny County’s South Park.
Celebrating with Halloween trivia and a special visit from WISH 99.7 FM
For additional information about any older adult programming, contact the community programs department at 412-221-1099.
Senior Spotlight: Joanne Garone-Melucci Joanne F. Garone-Melucci — 90 years young and 45 years in heart, mind and energy! Mom of five and nonna of seven, she has lived at the same Upper St. Clair address for 59 years. Joanne became involved with the USC Senior Citizens about five years ago. Being a vibrant, social person, she found many friends and acquaintances there, and soon she was added to the board as vice president and placed in charge of the Community Day bake sales. At Wednesday programs, you’re sure to find Joanne costumed for Halloween, designing centerpieces for holiday gatherings, baking biscotti and Irish soda bread and even offering an identity theft program from her attorney son. She has jumped right in and fully embraced this new adventure with all her colleagues and friends at the USC Senior Citizens! 62
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
A wonderful cook and baker, Joanne is a talented decorator and designer, and a funny, considerate and clever friend. Her hobbies include gardening in the spring and summer, using the basil she grows to make batches of pesto and flowers to make gorgeous centerpieces. Joanne Garone-Melucci But Joanne’s baking talent is what so many people enjoy! Through the year she bakes pies, breads, cookies, pecan rolls and especially biscotti — her specialty. Her most popular are anise and raisin, but she has baked many flavor combos for families, friends and neighbors. n
2023 Veterans Day Observance Enjoying a Thanksgiving feast in November
USC Township Silver Card The Township Silver Card is free and available to residents ages 62 and older. To obtain a Silver Card and receive access to a select number of group exercise classes, USC’s three-hole golf course, as well as a complimentary summer tennis permit, visit the Community and Recreation Center, 1551 Mayview Road. Silver card applications are available 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Monday–Friday. A valid photo ID showing USC residency is required upon application. Residents who acquired their Silver Card prior to 2019 are encouraged to re-apply for and receive a new, updated card.
Upper St. Clair honored veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces during their annual Veterans Day observance on Nov. 10, 2023. Held at the Township’s Veterans Memorial Park, the ceremony included keynote speaker retired U.S. Army Colonel Bernard Lindstrom and musical performances by the Upper St. Clair High School marching band and the Chanteclairs. n
USCSD Gold Card Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission. To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
ACCESS Paratransit and Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card Applications for the Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card and the ACCESS 65 Plus Coordinated, Shared-Ride Paratransit Service are available at the C&RC. Application must be made in person at the C&RC during business hours, Monday–Friday. Proof of age (65) is required at the time of application. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
63
HOME IMPROVEMENT “Scott Bros. comes highly recommended in the Upper St. Clair area.”
SCOTT BROS. Windows and Doors
Call us today for FREE estimate
724.745.2376
www.scottbroswindows.com WINDOWS
DOORS
KITCHENS
BATHS
Call u s toda y to sched ule an inhome estima t e! 412
-655-3
430
Creative Design & Professional Installation Serving the Pittsburgh area for over 55 years!
Featuring Windows and Doors by Pella. Kitchen and Bath Cabinetry by Wood-Mode & Mouser. 1125 Forest Ave. Pittsburgh 15236
64
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
www.angeloassociates.com
PA 9659
ST PE
N N
WE
HOME IMPROVEMENT
LANDSCAPING
Try Our High Quality Mulch (Long Lasting & Color Fade Resistant)
WEST PENN LANDSCAPING 412-287-0728 MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF BID. ONE COUPON PER JOB, PER YEAR. NOT VALID ON LAWN MOWING OR SPRING/FALL CLEANUPS. EXPIRES 5/31/24
WEST PENN LANDSCAPING 412-287-0728 MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF BID. ONE COUPON PER JOB, PER YEAR. NOT VALID ON LAWN MOWING OR SPRING/FALL CLEANUPS. EXPIRES 5/31/24
Remodeling Renovation Handyman Services
WEST PENN LANDSCAPING 412-287-0728
guyforthejob.com
MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF BID. ONE COUPON PER JOB, PER YEAR. NOT VALID ON LAWN MOWING OR SPRING/FALL CLEANUPS. EXPIRES 5/31/24
Now Accepting New Lawn Mowing Customers
Now Scheduling Spring Aeration
Landscaping Services
(412) 329-8123
Mention this ad for 10% off PA173681
Family owned Upper St. Clair buisness
Backyard Structures and Home Insurance Is your shed, detached garage or swimming pool covered under your homeowners’ insurance policy? If you have a freestanding garage, shed, pool or other structure on your home’s property, it may be protected under your policy. It is also good to keep in mind that, just like for your home, there are limitations on what kind of damages can be covered by your policy for your outdoor structures. Sheds and outdoor buildings The coverage amount varies from policy to policy — check your policy for the specific coverage related to these items. Remember to notify your agent or carrier of the existence of these items and keep the rebuilding cost of these structures in mind when purchasing your policy. Whether it’s a garden shed or a garage for your mower, your personal property inside other structures may also be covered by homeowners’ insurance. You might consider a Personal Articles Policy for some types of machinery or sports equipment (limitations apply). This type of policy protects items beyond the limitations and deductibles of a homeowners’ insurance policy. Swimming pools Whether you already have a swimming pool or are thinking about getting one, review liability coverage options with your insurance agent or carrier. While most homeowners’ insurance policies include some liability protection, you may want more if you have a swimming pool. The Insurance Information Institute recommends increasing your amount of liability protection or purchasing an umbrella liability policy.
You can also take additional safety measures to help prevent accidents and reduce the potential liability exposure: • Add a high fence with a self-closing, locked gate to help keep guests from entering without your knowledge. • Enforce safe pool rules such as no diving into shallow water and walking (not running) around the edge of the pool. • Provide non-slip surfaces around your pool to help prevent falls. • Maintain adult supervision of children in the pool at all times. • Keep necessary first aid equipment near the pool. • Contact your local municipality to determine if your pool and surrounding fence meets requirements for size, depth and other safety features. Property damage is another coverage type to have in mind when you are thinking about pools. Consider asking your insurance company how this coverage applies to different pool types and in different claims scenarios. Understanding your policy might help you be better prepared for the unexpected. Fences Fences are generally considered to be other structures. Depending on the type of policy a person carries and the material of the fence and in the case of a covered claim, it might be paid at actual cash value (depreciated value) instead of at replacement cost. Review and understand your homeowner’s insurance policy to see that you have the right amount and coverage type, should the unforeseen happen. n Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm agent. See ad on page 23. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
65
HOME IMPROVEMENT
DRAINAGE EXPERTS!
FRENCH DRAINS • DRAIN PIPES • WATERPROOFING • GRADING • RE-SEEDING GET O UR 2ND OPIN CALL ION US
BEFO INSTA RE YO LL FREN AN INTER U IO CH D RAIN R !
12 MONTHS 0% FINANCING We offer alternatives to interior French drains and we do not destroy your basement! Rather than pumping waterout of your basement, our goal is to keep water out of your home in the first place.
UNIQUE DRIVEWAYS DIFFICULT EXCAVATION COMPLICATED RETAINING WALLS
You can trust in the value of Mike Isbir’s 30+ years of experience & Civil Engineering Degree to design and execute your project.
412-751-4359
www.isbirconstruction.com
66
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
PA003327
See Our Google Reviews!
HOME IMPROVEMENT
724-330-4772
• Complete Tree Care Services • Quality Pruning • Tree & Shrub Fertilization • Lawn Care Services • Insect & Disease Management • Landscape Maintenance & Planting • ISA Certified Arborists • Residential/Commercial
South Pittsburgh • www.davey.com
Meet Your USC Neighbor: Elana Ouimette In 2016, Elana Ouimette moved from Phoenix to Upper St. Clair with her husband, Brendon, and their two young children. As a mom taking a break from the world of pharmaceutical and medical device clinical trials, Elana spent her days taking care of the kids and the house. Playdates, doctor visits and story times mixed in with the laundry, cooking and paying the bills. During this time, she never imagined that one day she would be known as the Handy-Mom. Elana’s handiness started when she began to do small repairs around the house. For larger jobs, she would try to hire help, but getting someone to return her calls or give an estimate was often such a chore that she decided to do it herself. Whatever the task — even installing a new toilet — after watching a few videos, she was ready to tackle it! Noting how handy she was becoming and how her sense of self-worth was climbing, Brendon got her a hammer drill for Christmas one year. Many Upper St. Clair moms would have scoffed at this gift, but Elana loved it and soon the Ouimettes had a new railing on their front steps.
When her children were getting ready to start school, Elana was ready to get back into the work force, but she was disappointed in the job offerings she found. Even with more than a decade of experience, the openings were not what she had anticipated. She thought that if she had to start at the beginning, she might as well start something new, but she wasn’t quite sure what. Elana had posted her small accomplishments around her house on social media and she started getting inquiries from others who wanted her help. When the pandemic was in full swing there was a major construction and home improvement boom, but local homeowners were having trouble finding someone to do smaller projects. That’s when Handy-Mom was born. Elana started her own business and became an insured and registered home improvement contractor in the state of Pennsylvania. From hanging pictures to installing baby gates, changing faucets to creating organized closet spaces, and changing filters to installing light fixtures, Elana was excited about the service she was providing. She quickly learned that many neighbors Spring 2024
liked having another local mom working in their homes, especially if they couldn’t be there. Elana feels fortunate to be in her current position. She can choose her projects, as well as her hours. In addition, she likes to work with neighbors to help them bring their vision to life. She especially loves projects where she can give a design, function or organization perspective along with the installation. To this day, her favorite project is her own basement renovation and she beams with pride when she enjoys the environment she created. Elana is also passionate about rescue animals, plants and Pilates and loves exploring nature and traveling with her family while watching her kids grow up. She and Brendon are glad they chose to call Upper St. Clair home. n For more information about Elana and her services, contact her at elana@handy-mom.com. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
67
CFUSC Recap 2023 The Community Foundation had an amazing year in 2023. We continued to award grants and scholarships, engaged in partnerships and participated in community events. As always, we thank our generous donors for helping us sustain our many activities. Grant requests are coming in. If you are considering applying for a grant, go to cfusc. org/grants. We also welcome community members who are interested in becoming trustees and volunteers with the organization. Visit cfusc.org/trustee-application to inquire.
AR EST.
TS
Our Vision Investing in residents and their ideas to continually strengthen our community www.cfusc.org
HEALTH
Founded in 1993
EST.
Grants 2023
Robotics Club
M
TE
S EST.
1993
1993
Our Mission To enrich our community by supporting activites and programs, to develop partnerships, and to award grants in defined focus areas
1993
Story Walk at C&RC
Digital Monitor for HS Arts Lobby
Partnerships 2023
Community Day Community Band South Partnership
2024 CFUSC Executive Committee
We Deliver Faster Than Amazon!
Justin Schmidt, President Bruce Nelson, Vice President Lauren Mathews, Secretary Navin Parmar, Treasurer
Purchase your CFUSC soft, plushy Panther blanket at cfusc.org/shop. It will be delivered in two to three days! 68
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
The Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, located at 2585 Washington Road #131 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 Spring 2024
The ducks are already lining up for the Great Duck Race on Community Day. Adoptions begin March 1! Watch cfusc.org for details.
Community Band South Celebrates Its Music Man CFUSC has engaged in many partnerships through the years, including one with Community Band South (CBS), a community treasure that has been bringing joy to audiences since 1987. The Band partnered with CFUSC this past fall to pay tribute to its co-founder and co-conductor, James M. Bennett. Jim was USCHS band director for 33 years and for many years following his retirement, managed the USC High School Theater. He helped establish the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair (CFUSC) and was the longest sitting member of the Board, serving as the Arts Focus Chair for 25 years. He brought in music, theater, dance performances and art opportunities to enrich life for the entire community. As a strong advocate for arts education, Jim and his Bethel Park colleague, the late C. Dean Streator, co-founded the CBS in 1987 to nurture the band’s mission that “Music is for a Lifetime.” CBS is currently under the direction of Max Gonano, former band director at California University of Pennsylvania. Max created an amazing event to honor Jim, to share memories about his teaching and celebrate CBS. He assembled people who were significant in Jim’s life and asked Paul Fox, Jim’s colleague at USCHS and fellow CFUSC trustee, to serve as emcee for the concert. Paul began by saying, “Jim touched so many lives, but today will not be a sad affair. We will reminisce, embrace, revere, celebrate, honor and retell a few of the stories of his remarkable musical and teaching moments, and highlight those relationships, partnerships and some of those masterful USC traditions he can be credited for creating. Along the way, we will play some of Jim’s favorite music and introduce major players from (l/r) James Bennett, Dean Streator, his life.” Several of Jim’s former Max Gonano, the CBS Band Directors students were guest conductors. In 1999, CFUSC commissioned Samuel Hazo, one of Jim’s students who became a music educator and is now a world-renowned composer and festival conductor, to create a work to celebrate the opening of the newly renovated high school. He used the musical phrases of the USCHS “Alma Mater” and wove them into his masterful “Novo Lenio,” which won the National Band Association’s Best Compostition Award in 2002. Donald Pickell is another of Jim’s students who became a music teacher, walked in Jim’s footsteps as high school band director and is now laying foundations in the Upper St. Clair instrumental music program in the elementary schools. He took the baton to conduct the ever-loved “American Patrol.” Jim Bennett was a second-generation graduate of West Virginia University and was thrilled that his son, Christopher, became the third generation of Bennetts to at(l/r) Chris Bennett, Don Pickell, Sam Hazo tend WVU. Chris became a music educator and currently teaches in Maryland. He led CBS in “A Pittsburgh Suite” by Pierre LaPlante, which was commissioned by the Band in 2009 as a tribute to the working people of Western Pennsylvania. Another conductor was a very special friend of Jim’s, his childhood buddy and fellow high school band member, James Falvo. James also attended WVU, where the two were roommates. When Jim was hired by Upper St. Clair, James Falvo became band director at Canon McMillan High School. He conducted the Band on “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” which was followed by the stunning Carmen Dragon arrangements of “America the Beautiful.” In addition to the musical selections, former USC deputy superintendent Dr. Terrence Kushner paid tribute to Jim, as did former band parent and long-time school board member Angela Petersen. Angela always called Jim “the pied piper of Upper St. Clair” and as she shared her memories of Jim, she said she was sure that he was now serving as the band director in heaven. As a fitting encore, Chris Bennett walked on stage with his trumpet and began playing a gentle, reflective and familiar theme, leading the Band in a rousing rendition of the West Virginia University favorite “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” The entire afternoon was an inspiring performance and fitting tribute to a gentlemen who was proud of his students, loved his community and brought musical and artistic enrichments to Upper St. Clair residents of all ages. The Community Foundation is proud to have had this long-standing partnership with Upper St. Clair’s Music Man, Jim Bennett. Chris Bennett
James Falvo Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
69
Spectacular Sunset
Katie Lynch, wife of long-time TODAY contributor Jay Lynch, captured this stunning sunset in La Jolla, Ca.
John Lennon Point
This past fall, TODAY made a visit to John Lennon Point Vista, a scenic viewpoint in Brockway, Pa. If you visit, plan for at least a mile hike along some game land roads, longer when the gates are closed during the spring and summer months.
USC resident Curtis Turner looks into the pothole from the observation deck
Instructions for Traveling with TODAY
Archbald Pothole State Park Is anyone surprised to learn that Pennsylvania has a state park dedicated to a pothole? Archbald Pothole State Park is a 150-acre park located about five hours from Upper St. Clair in Lackawanna County. The giant pothole, discovered in 1894 by miners who thought the earth collapsed, is an elliptical shape and measures 38 feet deep. Its largest diameter is 42 feet by 24 feet. This geological phenomenon is called a glacial pothole and formed during the Wisconsin Glacial Period about 15,000 years ago, as melted ice carrying abrasive sand and stones swirled in waters here. 70
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information. • Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. • List name(s) of resident(s), group and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stay-at-home project. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Email information to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “TODAY” listed in subject line. Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.
Hanging Out in the Robery Jim O’Brien
The words robery, leggings and switches are not often found in the same story these days. And that’s robery, not robbery. Some explanation may be necessary. The robery was a long, narrow, often dark room to the right of the doorway as you entered the classrooms at St. Stephen’s Catholic Grade School in the Hazelwood area of Pittsburgh. Coat hooks lined both sides of the robery. Once upon a time there were robes hung on those hooks, later coats. (Remember pea coats?) The word robery isn’t even found in any modern dictionaries. There were 24 such classrooms in the three-story yellow-brick building, located half-way up the hill on Elizabeth Street at the corner of Gertrude Street. Twenty-three of them were on the first three floors and one was off by itself in the basement, just across the hall from the huge blackened iron furnace that filled most of the cave-like room and heated the building. The building was abandoned more than 25 years ago. There is no St. Stephen’s Catholic Grade School. The convent was leveled later on. The priest’s house has no priest in it. The memories remain. It was a cold winter morning and Mike the janitor was busy shoveling coal into the fiery pit of the furnace. He would feed the flames throughout the day. His red face was covered with soot and sweat. The nuns who taught there would point to the furnace and give the students nightmares by telling us that it was what hell was like. That left a vivid impression on all of us — too hot to handle. My mother made sure that I was dressed warmly. I wore dark blue leggings. They were heavy covers for your legs, from top to bottom they had crossing straps on your torso. Get the picture? When I removed my coat upon entering the classroom, several girls greeted me with a laugh and some snickers when they saw my blue leggings. I responded by saying, much too loudly I suppose, in retrospect, “My old lady made me wear them!”
Sister Macrina, my second-grade teacher, stood in the far corner of the classroom, next to the fish tank and the white statue of the Blessed Mother, as far from me as possible. Somehow, she heard what I had said. She was upon me in maybe two seconds. Sister Macrina was the first Flying Nun I knew personally; too personally. She seized me by the straps across my back and yanked me into the robery. Her eyeglasses glistened from the overhead light. Funny what you remember. She hoisted me up and put those straps over a hook. She pulled a switch — a long thin branch — from a basket in the corner and took a few well-aimed swats at my backside. That’s when I really appreciated the extra padding the leggings provided. Sister Macrina left me dangling from that hook the rest of the morning. I spent way too much time in the robery the rest of my grade school days. I must have been in there — sort of a solitary confinement — when we were taught how to tell time. I am still slow on the draw when anyone asks me what time it is. The nuns used to store candy bars in a cabinet in the back of the robery. They used them as rewards for the best-behaved students and often wondered why the supply seemed a bit short. My role as a grade school student seemingly was to amuse the other students. It was not an easy task through the frosted glass window that filled most of the upper half of the door of the robery. But I managed. Some of life’s lessons come harder than others. I will say that after that morning, I never referred to my mother as “my old lady” again. n A version of this story was originally published in the Waterdam Farms monthly newsletter.
Joint replacement before breakfast and home before dinner.
whs.org/ortho
Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
71
Do you know your home’s value? Call now to learn your home’s worth in today’s market. Demand for homes remain high at all price points. For more than 25 years I have served buyers and sellers with a focus on Upper St. Clair and surrounding communities.
Call today for a market update. A Proven Top Producer Over 425 Million illion in Sales Relocation Specialist
Real Estate • Mortgage • Title • Insurance
Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS 412-491-6984 or 412-833-3601 x 219 dhorvath@ howardhanna.com
Hope in the South Hills Miriam Gutensohn, TODAY Intern Looking back on 2023, one particular event had the musical power to bring people from different backgrounds, religious affiliations and neighboring schools together in our Upper St. Clair High School Theater. This past November, in partnership with Violins of Hope Greater Pittsburgh and the South Hills Interfaith Movement, Hope in the South Hills was a special evening of remembrance, acceptance and peace, filled with readings, art work and musical performances inspired by the lessons learned from the Holocaust and presented by students from Bethel Park, Baldwin, Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair high schools, as well as the acclaimed Clarion Quartet and Ellen Chen-Livingston from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. This concert revolved around “surviving instruments” from the Holocaust, featured at the Violins of Hope exhibit at Carnegie Mellon University’s Posner Center from this past fall. Violins of Hope is a private collection of string instruments that belonged to and were played by Jewish musicians before and during the Holocaust. Each instrument has its own inspiring story of resilience, hardship and survival, and was restored by violin maker Amnon Weinstein and his son, Avshalom, to be played in concert halls. With its motto “Tuning Out Prejudice: Building Bridges That Last,” Violins of Hope Greater Pittsburgh successfully presented an impactful community project of educational and cultural programming to learn for the future by remembering stories from the past. Pittsburgh’s community could choose from a full calendar of 72
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
events over several weeks, including ballet dance performances at the Point Park Fall Dance Concert that told the story of the systematic genocide of a Jewish family and those in concentration camps in Christopher Huggins piece “The List.” A spectacular concert with violinist Joshua Bell and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra concluded the Violins of Hope Greater Pittsburgh project, with the world premiere of Israeli composer Boris Pigovat’s “Yizkor,” a PSO commission in memory of the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. I had the honor of playing three different violins from the Violins of Hope collection in concert with the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Upper St. Clair High School orchestra. One of the violins I borrowed for the Hope in the South Hills concert, named JVH 72 Storch, Transport, was originally owned by Paul and Elsa Katzenstein from Hamburg, Germany, and was lent to the collection by their grandson, Daniel Storch. After Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, the Katzenstein family had to escape the Nazi terror and was forced to sell most of their valuables for the money needed to immigrate to the United States. Fortunately, one violin made the trip with them, JVH 72 Storch, Transport. While playing these violins, I felt connected to their history and grateful to contribute to a special moment of musical remembrance. Hope in the South Hills was certainly a memorable event of our community coming together as one. If you missed the Violins of Hope exhibit in Pittsburgh and happen to be in Florida soon, the exhibit’s next location is the Holocaust Documentation and Education Center in Dania Beach through April 12, 2024. n
ALT’s Lands and Projects in Bloom Lindsay Dill, Allegheny Land Trust
Keep up to date with all the latest news from the Allegheny Land Trust!
As spring’s first blossoms adorn the landscape, Allegheny Land Trust (ALT) eagerly anticipates a season of growth, learning and community involvement. Wingfield Pines is poised to welcome an intern whose role will be paramount in nurturing and enhancing this haven of biodiversity. This season also promises a blend of hands-on land maintenance projects, enlightening environmental education events and a collective effort to finish conserving more vital, close-to-home green space. At the core of our spring initiatives is the engagement of a dedicated intern who will be instrumental in the day-to-day activities that contribute to the well-being of Wingfield Pines. From trail maintenance and volunteer workdays to community engagement, the intern will play a vital role in ensuring the continued health and vitality of this natural sanctuary. Wingfield Pines and other ALT lands are not just passive recipients of care; they are dynamic hubs for environmental education. This season, we invite the community to participate in volunteer and environmental education events hosted by ALT’s interns and staff. From guided nature walks and bird-watching excursions to hands-on volunteer workdays, these events aim to foster a connection between individuals and the natural world. By sharing knowledge and inspiring curiosity, we hope to empower the community to make informed choices contributing to the well-being of our environment.
• Monthly Projects & Events Email Newsletter Sign-Up: alleghenylandtrust.org/news-events/ • Panhandle Greenway Project Page: alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/ • Event Calendar for Details & Registration: alleghenylandtrust.org/events/
In tandem with these endeavors, ALT is continuing efforts to permaUpcoming Local and nently conserve the nearby 221-acre Panhandle Greenway conservation Online Events: project. Located in the rapidly deMarch 11 | 4:30–5:15 p.m. veloping, flood-vulnerable Robinson Owl Pellets Run Watershed, the land sits along @ Bethel Park Historical Society the scenic corridor of the popular Panhandle Trail in South Fayette and March 11 | 6–7 p.m. Collier townships. The protection of Common Mushrooms of the Yard & Garden this strategically located, “keystone” @ Bethel Park Historical Society land would create an ecological, recreational and place-making greenway March 13 | 5–5:45 p.m. unlike any in the region by beginSpring’s Early Bloomers ning to connect Settler’s Cabin Park, @ Virtual Pittsburgh Botanical Garden, Collier April 10 | 5–5:45 p.m. Township Park, South Fayette’s City Nature Challenge Preservation Park, the Panhandle and @ Virtual Montour Trails and other public and privately conserved lands. April 29 | 5:30–7 p.m. ALT has the land under contract Science Stroll: Amphibians to purchase and permanently protect @ Wingfield Pines contingent upon successfully raising the needed funds for closing. To raise Find these events and more at: the $1,785,000 needed to conserve alleghenylandtrust.org/events the land, ALT has been enacting a diversified plan utilizing funds from toward this goal! We hope that you will add state grants, private foundations, local your support to protect this close-to-home corporations and — the final crucial com- green space benefiting residents today and ponent — local individual donors. ALT is generations to come through preserved air seeking a total of $75,000 from individuals and water quality, unique scenic character, to help close the funding gap and serve biodiversity and expanded opportunities as the local matching dollars required to for outdoor recreation and environmental unlock the state grants. education. At the time this article was written, As we usher in the season of renewal, ALT neighbors have donated more than $35,000 invites you to join us in our multifaceted efforts. Whether through volunteering, attending events or supporting the Panhandle Greenway conservation project, every action makes a difference in preserving the natural beauty that defines our community. Together, let us celebrate spring as a season of growth, learning and collective care for close-to-home green space. n Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
73
Horses with Hope Saddles Up for Spring
The Horses with Hope herd is gearing up for another season of equine-assisted services this spring, marking their third consecutive year serving the community at Gilfillan Farm. In May, the therapeutic herd will join Titus and Zane, the charming miniature Appaloosas residing at Gilfillan Farm year-round. Over the fall and winter months, more than 50 trained volunteers diligently cared for these small equine members, finding joy in the exercise, education and bonding that came with the responsibility. As the larger horses make their return in May, Horses with Hope will offer 15 weeks of therapeutic riding. This holistic experience caters to a diverse range of individuals, including those with physical, cognitive or emotional challenges. Excitingly, the all-abilities summer camp returns in July, featuring a variety of engaging activities. Participants will interact with animals, engage in physical activities, enjoy the outdoors, build confidence and engage in experiential learning. Horses with Hope acknowledges and is grateful for the invaluable supporters and volunteers who make its services possible. As the organization expands its reach in 2024 and works to serve a growing number of individuals, this is an opportune time to sign up as a volunteer. Your time and skills, whether assisting with lessons, summer camps, events or animal care can make a lasting impact. Explore volunteer opportunities at horseswithhope.org/volunteer and sign up to attend the annual training day on March 23. n
Join Horses with Hope in making a difference by being a part of upcoming events! Save the date for The Fifth Annual Belmont Jewel on Saturday, June 8, at St. Clair Country Club — an evening filled with cocktails, appetizers, dinner, games, raffles and musical entertainment. Details for this and other “fun”draising events like the Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community and the annual Bowling Event can be found at horseswithhope.org/events. We hope to see you there! 74
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
For more information on Horses with Hope: Discovery, Growth and Learning programs, visit horseswithhope.org.
MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER SKATE at the MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER
Open Year Round with Something for Everyone
Learn-to-Skate Classes Beginner & Advanced Hockey Clinics Hockey Leagues Youth Developmental Middle School Varsity Adult Public Skating Summer Development Skating School Adult Skating & Instructional Programs Broomball Summer Camps
412-561-4363
mtlebanon.org
SHANNON GALLAGHER Associate Broker
Local. Trusted. Experienced.
Your Home’s Perfect Match. Phone: 412-741-2200 Mobile: 412-335-1712 shannongallagher@howardhanna.com
Format Focus
Home Entertainment in 3D Before we could watch movies in 3D, families in the 19th century used a stereoscope for 3D viewing at home. Special photographic cards, like these pictured, could be purchased for use in a handheld viewer called a stereoscope. These card stereographs consisted of a pair of almost identical images that, when viewed together, gave the illusion of a three-dimensional image. During the 20th century, a similar technology became available to the average consumer. Amateur photographers could take snapshots of everyday objects and create their own 3D images of their daily lives. The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair holds a small collection of card stereographs featuring images of sculptures, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian, the National Cemetery in Virginia and several nature scenes. It also holds a collection of approximately 250 stereographic slides from the Gilfillan family. Their amateur 3D photographs include scenes of their farm, flowers, nearby farms and other local attractions, as well as vacation photos from a family friend of Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. n
Article courtesy of Carolyn Jones Friedrich, historian, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.
Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
75
Fighting Hunger, Finding Smiles Caleb Guarino, TODAY Intern This past November, Isaac Bernstein, a senior at Upper St. Clair High School, hosted the second annual Hockey Fights Hunger tournament at the RMU Island Sports Center. With 30 teams and nearly 180 players across three divisions, the event was a huge success, raising over $12,000 — 36,000 meals — for families in need. The tournament organized players by age with middle school, high school and adult brackets. The middle and high school divisions also featured a skills competition, where players could show off their skills, make new friends and enjoy rink time with the hockey community. The tournament was run through Plates for Pitt, Bernstein’s independently run, non-profit organization, with immense support from the surrounding Pittsburgh community. Plates for Pitt raises money for the Greater Pittsburgh Area Community Food Bank, which donates meals to food-insecure families. To date, Berstein has donated over 186,000 meals, the equivalent of a $42,000 donation. Bernstein started the organization in 2020, around the time the COVID-19 virus suspended the world. Inspired by the pandemic, Bernstein sought ways to “make a community impact and spread smiles in the process,” while abiding by the “non-contact services being required due to the nature of the pandemic.” “Initially, I thought of hiding Easter eggs in families’ yards around the city,” said Bernstein. This creative idea allowed families to sign up through a form, where Bernstein, as the Easter Bunny, would hide eggs in families’ yards in the nighttime, write personalized letters to each of the kids and visit homes during the daytime to interact and take pictures. From hiding eggs alone, he visited
Live life uplifted at Franklin Court, the newest neighborhood on the Providence Point campus.
Embrace a refined, independent lifestyle without the stress of home ownership — and enjoy our resort -style amenities, including fine dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, day spa, and much more.
Visit ProvidencePoint.org/Franklin-Court or call 412-489-3550 today.
Be here. Be home. Be at Providence Point.
The Hockey for Hunger tournament raised more than $12,000 to fight hunger.
approximately 15 homes and raised money for 2500 meals in his first year. Bernstein attributes the cheer he spread while hiding eggs to the start of Plates for Pitt. In the following years, his organization expanded exponentially due to an incredible increase in support from the community and media. Now, Bernstein raises money not just through hiding eggs, but through additional unique means of service. “The next year, I expanded and became the Grinch. Visiting homes as the Grinch is similar to visiting as the Easter Bunny, but I can talk. This allows me to interact and connect with the kids Isaac as the Easter bunny…. beyond just dancing and gesturing,” Bernstein shares. “I’ve also noticed some kids are scared of the Grinch, so it’s always been one of my favorite parts helping the kids understand that the Grinch’s heart grew three sizes and watching their expressions change from fear to cheer.” n …and the Grinch!
Learn more about Isaac, his cause and the Plates for Pitt community by visiting platesforpitt.org. A single-dollar donation provides three meals for those in need. 76
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Happenings! Free Tax Assistance by VITA
Orchid Obsession The Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania (OSWP) 2024 show, Orchid Obsession, is scheduled for Saturday, March 16, and Sunday, March 17, at The Crowne Plaza Hotel on Fort Couch Road. Admission is $5 and guests under 18 years old are free. The Show celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Society, which was established in the South Hills in 1954. Visitors will be inspired by the beautifully-crafted displays of blooming orchids. Expert orchid growers will be onsite to provide information about growing orchids. The show includes orchid vendors, free educational seminars, silent auction and raffles and a repotting table where attendees can bring their own orchids for some expert repotting by OSWP members. For more information about the Orchid Show, orchids, and the OSWP, visit oswp.org or contact David Motak at djm713@yahoo.com.
Location: The Bible Chapel, 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray, lower level of rear building. Directions: Five miles south of South Hills Village on Washington Road, right at the light onto Gallery Drive, 0.4 miles to VITA site. Dates/Times: Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–1:30 p.m., now through April 11. First come, first served; no appointments. What to bring: 2022 tax return; ID for yourself and spouse, if applicable; Social Security number(s) and birthdate(s) for yourself, spouse and any dependents; all W-2 and 1099 tax documents (including Social Security 1099); 1095 health care statements; and property tax receipts. Both spouses must sign joint returns. Must wear a mask. Federal, state, and local taxes and property tax/rent rebate forms will be prepared. Questions? Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 or search “VITA” online at irs.gov to see if you qualify. Do not contact The Bible Chapel.
Serving the USC community for 8 years
Keynotes Music Scholarship Competition 2024 Keynotes is accepting applications for Music Scholarship Competition 2024, which will be held May 11, at The Fine Arts Theater of Mt. Lebanon High School. Cash awards totaling more than $16,000 will be awarded. For an application, call scholarship chairman Lori Walter at 412-260-6972 or email houdini5@hotmail.com. Deadline for application is April 30, 2024. For additional information, visit keynotesmusicscholarship.com or search Facebook, at Keynotes Music Scholarship.
Everyone and Anyone can learn to ride a bicycle safely at a county park near you.
You can too! Register for 2024 private and family lessons at:
Learn3Ride.com Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
77
Profiles
of people with a USC connection
Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor,
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or
usctoday@usctoday.org
Claire Zalla, USCHS 2017, has been selected for the Schwarzman Scholars graduate fellowship. She is one of 150 young leaders from 43 countries who will attend a one-year, fully-funded master’s in global affairs program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, and join a growing network of future leaders. Claire graduated from Yale College in 2021 with a B.A. in Global Affairs. She joined CNN as the lead researcher on Fareed Zakaria GPS and received an Emmy nomination for her work on a special program about the fall of Kabul. She has prior internship experience with the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Navy and National War College. She is passionate about conflict management and hopes to work in negotiation, mediation and peacebuilding.
This past December, Elizabeth Meitzler, USCHS 2009, published her second novel, “The Power Move,” a hockeythemed romance and the first book in the Ballentine Boys series. Her first book, “The Twelve Swipes of Christmas,” is a feel-good holiday romance with tons of Christmas spirit. You can find her books online and in local book stores.
Follow Elizabeth on social media for updates on future projects.
USC resident Elizabeth Roseborough’s artwork was on display at St. Clair Health from this past December through February. Elizabeth is a local, state and national level award-winning retired mathematics teacher turned artist. A member of McMurray Art League, Pittsburgh Pastel Artist League, Pittsburgh Society of Artists, Upper St. Clair League for the Arts and Whitehall Arts, she has exhibited in national, regional and local juried shows. Her work is on display year-round at the Latrobe Art Center, in Latrobe, Pa., and ARC Art Gallery in Canonsburg, Pa.
Upper St. Clair Bethel Park Rotary, Breakfast Club This past December, Upper St. Clair Bethel Park Rotary, Breakfast Club members took ringing bells for the Salvation Army to the next level by donning holiday hats, “ugly” Christmas sweaters and even singing holiday carols and playing the kazoo as they greeted shoppers.
Visit Elizabeth’s website at erosieart.wixsite.com/studio.
Troy Orthodontics Welcomes Dr. Brett Crell Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Dr. Brett Crell attended Penn State for his undergraduate education, earned his doctorate in dental surgery from the University of Texas School of Dentistry and specialized in orthodontics, earning his masters at Seton Hill University. Devoted to patient care, Dr. Crell balances his professional life with a love for family, friends, food, travel and pickleball! His wife, Patricia, is a professional violinist, and her career has been punctuated by notable performances with the Houston Symphony, Ballet and Opera, and at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Dr. Crell and Dr. Troy’s offices are located in Pinebridge Commons in Upper St. Clair and in Bethel Park. 78
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Stockings for Soldiers has quickly grown to be one of the clubs’ favorite annual activities. Working in an organized assembly line, Upper St. Clair Bethel Park Rotary, Breakfast Club members worked side by side to stuff 50 stockings with items like microwave popcorn, cereal bars, trail mix, dice, cards, gum and much more. The club dropped off the stockings to Beinhauer Family Funeral home in McMurray, where each year they ship over 500 stockings overseas.
Upper St. Clair – Yesterday and TODAY Thirty years ago, the Consol offices dominated the scenery on Washington Road across from South Hills Village. Now the landscape has completely changed and residents enjoy a myriad of shops and restaurants available at Sienna at St. Clair, as well as a Whole Foods grocery store.
What Does Counseling Look Like? Maggie Zangara, MS Ed, LPC Outpatient Therapist and Program Manager, Outreach Teen & Family Services The fresh start offered by a new year is a great time to recommit to your goals and priorities. If one of your goals has been to connect with a mental health counselor but you’ve been putting it off because the process feels intimidating, we want to decrease any negative thoughts you might have by explaining how a typical counseling session works. This can also be useful information to review with your child if they are beginning therapy so they can better know what to expect. At Outreach Teen & Family Services, we offer accessible care and connection at our centrally located office in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Once you complete the online intake form, you will hear from our clinical director to learn more about your current needs so we can make sure Outreach is the right fit for you and then match you with one of our counselors. Emily* was 15 when her parents helped her complete an intake form to consent to counseling. Upon being matched with a counselor, she selected a day and time for in-person counseling that worked with her schedule. At the start of her first session, she confided in her counselor that she was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. Together, they discussed the “normal” counseling process, client/ counselor confidentiality and the limits to that confidentiality. Halfway through the session, Emily was surprised at how easy it was to open up. Her counselor was warm, confident and genuinely
interested in getting to know her. Emily felt understood as she shared about her challenging family experiences that were causing her to feel depressed. Emily began to look forward to her weekly counseling sessions. At times she laughed, while other times she felt emotional, especially when discussing the death of a loved one — a serious loss she had never shared with anyone outside her family. Through therapy, Emily learned that she must fully experience her emotions in order to heal. By having a safe place to feel heard by her counselor, Emily has learned to use her voice. She increased her self-esteem, propelling her to go after her goals in life and restore relationships with her family members. While it didn’t happen overnight, she feels happier and more self-aware than she has ever felt before. If anyone in your family is experiencing a decline in their mental health, Outreach can help. We offer a variety of services for children and young adults ages 5–21, along with their parents and families, including individual, group, family and parenting sessions. n *Name has been changed to protect confidentiality. Please note that Outreach does not offer crisis services or response and does not have evening and weekend on-call coverage. In an emergency, go to your local emergency room or call RESOLVE at 1-888-796-8226. Spring 2024
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
79
Advertiser Index
Spring 2024
twpusc.org/usctoday
Affordable Decks & Additions LLC......................................................... 64
* Kerr Dentistry ....................................................................................... 23
Angelo Associates, Inc. ......................................................................... 64
KSG Orthodontics................................................................................... 3
Arbor Tree Specialists Inc. ..................................................................... 66
Learn3ride............................................................................................ 77
Ardolino’s ............................................................................................. 11
* Manalo DMD, Larry E. ........................................................................... 23
* Calabro Tire And Auto Service................................................................. 7
McQueen Building Company.......................................... Front cover, 8, 9
Coldwell Banker - Dora Rudick ............................................................. 15
Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................ 67
* Coldwell Banker South Hills Office ............................ Outside back cover
* Mt. Lebanon Recreation ....................................................................... 75
Compass - Jonette Shanahan................................................................. 7
* Pinebridge Commons .......................................................................... 23
Davey Tree ............................................................................................ 67
* Providence Point/Baptist Senior Family ............................................... 76
Envisage / Presbyterian Seniorcare Network.......................................... 3
Really Dough........................................................................................ 11
* Extended Day Services ......................................................................... 35
Re/Max Select Realty-Amanda Walton ................................................. 12
Friendship Village .................................................................................. 7
* Rusmur Floors ............................................................... Inside back cover
Guy’s Home Improvements ................................................................. 65
* Scott Bros Windows & Doors ................................................................ 64
Howard Hanna - Amanda Nasman....................................................... 35
South Hills Endoscopy Center ................................................................ 1
* Howard Hanna - Diane Horvath ........................................................... 72
* St. Clair Health ................................................................................. 5, 44
TODAY thanks our advertisers for their support of our community magazine!
Please consider using their services whenever you are able.
Howard Hanna - Shannon Gallagher ................................................... 75
* State Farm Insurance - Cindy Brophy ................................................... 23
* Howard Hanna - USC Office.......................................... Inside front cover
Thomas Dance Studio........................................................................... 79
Isbir Construction & Landscaping Corp. ............................................... 66
Three Rivers Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery......................................... 10
JAB Jewerly Works ............................................................................... 12
* Washington Health Systems ................................................................ 71
Kathy’s Music LLC ................................................................................. 72
* Wellington Real Estate ......................................................................... 19
* Keller Williams-Sandy and Marshall Goldstein .................................... 39
West Penn Landscaping ....................................................................... 65
Let guide you in 2024 with great ad placement. Upcoming summer guides include Home & Garden and Summer Activities
Place your ad in our community’s go-to publication.
Contact 412-851-2851.
YEARS
*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 58 issues.
412-851-2851 | usctoday@usctoday.org | twpusc.org/usctoday
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair 80
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Spring 2024
Presort STD US Postage PAID Permit # 206 Pittsburgh PA
1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
WE MOVE UPPER ST. CLAIR
Casey Caudill
Lynn Dempsey
Brittany Fichter
John Geisler
Peters Township Office
South Hills Office
South Hills Office
South Hills Office
Sheryl Kyle
Bonnie Loya
Monica Mahla
South Hills Office
Peters Township Office
Peters Township Office
Rachel Mazzie
Carol McCarthy
Dora Rudick
South Hills Office
South Hills Office
South Hills Office
SPRING Into ACTION Ready to sell? Coldwell Banker Realty can help you make the needed improvements to prep your home for sale with no up-front costs using the RealVitalize® program. Contact us to learn more!
South Hills 1630 Washington Road | Pittsburgh PA 15241 | 412.833.5405 ColdwellBankerHomes.com/southhills Peters Township 3244 Washington Road | McMurray, PA 15317 | 724.942.1200 ColdwellBankerHomes.com/peterstownship
NMLS ID 1598647
Coldwell Banker and Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC share common ownership and because of this relationship the brokerage may receive a financial or other benefit. You are not required to use Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC as a condition of purchase or sale of any real estate. ©2024 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. RealVitalize® and the REALVITALIZE and RV logos are registered service marks owned by Anywhere Real Estate Group LLC (“Anywhere”). The RealVitalize program is not available in all states and available only at participating offices. Void where prohibited. Terms and conditions apply. Execution of program agreement is required. Results not guaranteed. Seller must pay for work upon earlier of closing, listing no longer being in effect, or 12 months after completion of first job. If settlement proceeds are insufficient to cover the RealVitalize project costs, seller must pay the balance within 15 days after closing. All property enhancement services are provided by the applicable service provider affiliated with Angi, and are not provided by Anywhere, Coldwell Banker or any of its affiliated companies. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2024 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 24E6YK_PIT_1/24