SUMMER 2022 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

Summer 2022 Guides Home & Garden Summer Adventure Community Fair Setup Fun Run: Decade Dash Kick-off Ceremony Community Fair Area Parade Hottest Dog Contest Log House Open House and Bake Sale Entertainment Petting Zoo and Inflatable Attraction Gilfillan Farm Barnyard Activities Volunteer Fire Department Tours Duck Race Community Fair Setup Fun Run: Decade Dash Kick-off Ceremony Community Fair Area Parade Hottest Dog Contest Log House Open House and Bake Sale Entertainment Petting Zoo and Inflatable Attraction Gilfillan

USC CommUNITY Day Issue

USC resident and branch manager at Stockton Mortgage, Jeff Lagoni is passionate about helping people and giving back to the community. 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

Maureen Cavanaugh

Brad Cetnarowski

Kerrie Constantini

Tammy Fazio

Lauren Ganoe

Janet Hensler

Susan Highley

Diane Horvath

Jess Hutchinson

Frankie Kunselman

Dana Logan

Chris Longenecker

Marie Mageras

Kathy McCloskey

Alex Perdziola

Renee Ringer

Shannon Rosenberry

Jen Schalk

Beth Thomas

Wendy Vespa

Jody Yurcich

Izzy Zehner

David Limauro, M.D. • Mark Cedar, D.O. • Nicholas Bellicini, D.O. • Xuong Lu, M.D. • Jungmin Leo Lee, M.D. • David Glorioso, M.D. • Lisa Oliva, D.O. • Robert J. Pagano, M.D. • Theresa Schuerle, D.O. • Bridger Clarke, M.D.

SOUTH HILLS ENDOSCOPY CENTER Located at 2589 Boyce Plaza Road in Upper St. Clair

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Personal. What are you striving for today?

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At St. Clair Health, our care teams are driven by a passion to provide world-class, patient-focused care to our neighbors in and around the South Hills. That’s why we’ve recruited even more nationally recognized doctors and invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology to support them. So no matter how far you push yourself to achieve, you never have to go far to receive the personalized health care you deserve.

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REAL ESTATE AGENTS

WHO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE!

Barbara Baker Team* 412-403-5950

Liz Hoyson 412-298-8825

Elva Marotta 412-287-4542

JoAnn Robb 412-860-0336

Lynn Banbury 412-680-5000

Justin Christy 412-478-7474

Brian and Karen Cummings Team** 412-720-5475

Bob Dini 412-855-2058

Christina Watson & Lisa Murovich 412-915-7276

Jennifer Orebaugh 412-370-5288

Heather Orstein 412-596-5669

Nila Porter 412-913-5138

Michelle Schocker & Ruth Weigers*** 412-725-5663

Melissa Shipley Team**** 412-849-2413

Adam Valeriano***** 412-496-7444

Micole Tucker, Manager 412-861-3095

Let us help you find your way home!

Call one of our award-winning Mt. Lebanon Regional & Upper St. Clair sales associates.

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*Barbara Baker Team - Terry Abbott, Barbara Baker, Kate Clemons, Daniel Colaizzi, Doug Craig, Kim Kocher, Lindsey Schafer, Kristen Shaw, Stephanie Stewart **Brian and Karen Cummings Team - Thomas Purcell, licensed assistant ***Michelle Schocker/Ruth Weigers - Krista Pratley, Karen Coyle, Garrett Weigers, Ryan Campbell, Judy Ward, Kelly Rackley, Hanna Ketterman ****Melissa Shipley Team - Hailey Means, Tawnya Baier, Jordan Gropp & Lexi Brown, licensed assistants *****Adam Valeriano - Shawn Snyder & Alex Kane, licensed assistants

©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Summer 2022

•

Volume 28

twpusc.org/usctoday •

12 18 Reflections and Fond Memories

•

Issue 2

usctoday@usctoday.org

Features & Around the Township

Freedom Isn’t Free

Teachers Named Promising Practitioners

Father Knows Best

You Say STEM, I Say STEAM

Make a Difference—Volunteer!

USC Students Are Getting Down to Business…

Guides/ Directories

USC Citizen of the Year

Look for the Helpers 29 Community Gardens Continue to Blossom

Township

USC CommUNITY Day 2022 Schedule and list of activities

NextGen Municipal Building Renovation Project 52 Boyce Celebrates Kindness

Get Outdoors… USC’s Parks

Recycle Right!

64 Inaugural Year for the Bocce Team

Photo Ops

14 Honoring Our Veterans 59 Seussical, the Musical

You can purchase a TODAY cover, too! Contact usctoday@usctoday.org for specifications and rates.

72 Grrr-Eight News About USC Rowing UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

45 Pinebridge Commons 46 Summer Adventure 65 Home & Garden 81 Happenings 86 Serving Upper St. Clair 87 Clubs & Organizations 88 Advertiser Index

The front cover is sponsored by The Jeff Lagoni Mortgage Team powered by Stockton Mortgage. Read more about this local company and USC resident Jeff Lagoni on pages 10 and 11.

Stockton Mortage Company NMLS 8259

School District

Summer 2022

nmlsconsumeraccess.org

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 promoting the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year marks 28 years of our publication.

Fall 2022 edition includes Educational Resource and Health & Wellness guides. Deadlines: Articles–June 23 Advertising–June 27

The 110 th 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.

Website: twpusc.org/usctoday Email: usctoday@usctoday.org @usctoday

Mark Mansfield

Paul Fox

Linda Dudzinski

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s official magazine, please send $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 Phillip J. Elias, President Dr. Daphna Gans, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Kelly P. Hanna Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Michael R. Mascaro Angela B. Petersen Jennifer A. Schnore

Terry Kish

Colleen DeMarco

Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org

Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager, Advertising Executive Sarah Beitler, Marketing Executive, Advertising Executive Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Student Interns Emily Barrie Julia Roeschenthaler Maanasa Reddy Bria Zegarelli

Sarah Beitler

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Fall 2022 issue and will be published in August 2022. 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 Linda Dudzinski phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative

Kerry Turner

Dorothy Clark

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Emily Barrie (intern & YWG), Cindy Brophy, Ed Callahan, Lauren Costello, Lynn Dempsey, Lindsay Dill, Chet Dudzinski, Paul Fox, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Chelsea Fitterer, Tim Gagne, Christian Gmiter, Sandy Goldstein, Katie Heslop, Ronald de Jong, Brian Leek, Becki Lewis, Jay Lynch, Goeff McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Jim O’Brien, Maanasa Reddy (intern & YWG), Jim Render, Haley Roberts, Julia Roeschenthaler (intern & YWG), Marie Sauret, and Gary Schafer. Thank you also to the Township’s wonderful Public Works Department employees and our awesome high school custodians! Their help in transporting our magazines and working with the facility needs of our TODAY staff is greatly appreciated. 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 110th 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.

Township Board of Commissioners Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1 Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Richard I. Thomas, At Large

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@usctoday.org Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Freeport Press 2127 Reiser Ave. SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844 Copyright © 1994–2022. All rights reserved.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Exquisite Cape Cod in Westminister Fabulous kitchen & master bath, Manor! 3+3 BA, FR, 4 BR, GR, large private yard. Amy Dias 412-833-5405 $560,000

Spacious brk ranch bordering LR wall of windows overlooks cntry club! 4 BR, 3.5 6th fairway, BA, den, GR, Kathy Enick beautiful lot! 412-833-8000 $349,000

Quality built multi level 4 BR, 2.5 BA, Contempora ry, Livingroom Familyroom, Gameroom, fireplace, beautiful lot! Linda Paolino 412-833-540 5 $219,000

Beautiful Provincial, 4 BR, FR fplc, GR, full basement 3+2 BA, den, built-ins, 3 with bath car garage, treed lot! Angela Mize 412-833-8000 $485,000

Unique home for lge family Farms! FR, in Brookside den, separate dwelling GR, 6 BR, 5 full BA, for office or Barbara Cusick 412-833-540 playhouse! 5 $319,900

Meticulously maintained 4 BR, 2.5 BA Provincial, and decorated screened porch FR + GR, overlooks Val Scenna 412-833-8000 water garden! $214,500

Quality throughout! Bleached oak FR, walk-out kitchen, GR, vaulted cieling, master suite fplc + Monica Mahla private setting. 412-831-5555 $379,900

Lovely 4 BR, 4 BA ranch Manor! Beautiful in Westministe r marble floors kitchen + in FR, Norma Bishop GR, wine cellar! 412-833-5405 $269,900

Lovely 2 story Ceramic tile Colonial on cul de entry, Familyroom sac. Gameroom, , den,

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Charming Tudor in Deerfield High end Manor! updates inside Mstr BR + FR, 4 BR, 2.5 & out! Fplc in Jim Walsh 412-833-5405 BA, Gameroom! $242,500

Beautiful Colonial on a beautiful Familyroom lot! fireplace, 4 BR, 2.5 wrap around BA, deck, community Kathy Enick pool! 412-833-8000 $247,900

Many new updates in this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath 2 story, Familyroom central air, on 1st floor, 2 car garage. Ethel Levine 412-833-8000 $188,900

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

St. Clair”

Rather than using this page to highlight the news and information that can be found in this edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, we, the publishers, give the floor (and page) to Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski. Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Hello residents of Upper St. Clair,

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

This will be my last edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY as the magazine’s editor-in-chief and managing editor. My time with TODAY (pushing 23 years, 20 as editor) is over, and it’s now time to pass the baton to the next in line who will keep our community publication alive and strong. During my time here, I’ve had the privilege to work under four School District superintendents and two Township managers, and I appreciate the guidance that they each provided. The magazine office moved four times during my tenure, and the magazine itself transitioned from black and white to spot color to full color, its masthead and style were recently redesigned, it was elevated from a staple-in magazine to perfect bindery, it joined the social media era, and the “15241 TODAY talk, On Stage with Jim & Lanny” broadcast was unveiled and successful, all decisions made with the full effort of the magazine staff and backing of its steering committee. Speaking of the people who make this project successful, I thank the TODAY staff (Colleen DeMarco, Terry Kish, Sarah Beitler, Kerry Turner, and Dorothy Clark), as well as past staff members, steering committee members Mark Mansfield and Paul Fox, and the many, many volunteer writers and contributors for their unparalleled dedication and commitment to this publication and to our community. Lastly, thank you to Matthew Serakowski and Dr. John Rozzo and their corresponding boards of commissioners and directors for their unwavering support of our community magazine, and to the residents of Upper St. Clair for your loyalty and the feedback I’ve received over the years. You have been amazing to work with and to work for! Having a background in finance and earning my MBA from Pitt, I previously logged 13 years as an auditor for the Pennsylvania Department of Banking. Upon an early retirement from that line of work, I took a five-year hiatus from employment, while raising my three young children, volunteering in the USC school system, sitting on the Boyce Mayview Park (BMP) ad hoc committee, helping build trails at BMP, and later volunteering for Upper St. Clair Swim Club (now PEAQ). Originally joining the magazine staff in early 2000 as a result of a neighborly conversation with longtime TODAY sales executive Lynn Dempsey, two decades later, I now look to find my next hoorah. A new venture awaits for me and my husband, Chet, that will surely bring intrigue and fulfillment into our lives. When you see us around Upper St. Clair, wish us luck! So, as I excitedly look forward to new prospects, I can’t help but look back and share introspection about what I’m leaving behind. My position with TODAY has been personally rewarding in so many ways, especially as it relates to service to others. Two past magazine covers that illicit fond memories also hold personal milestones. The summer 2003 front cover of Dr. William Pope, superintendent of schools, was my first cover as editor. It’s a natural choice, but also what a wonderful person to honor! My next favorite was summer 2010, a cover that showcased a paper mâché birthday cake of past magazine front covers made by Eisenhower Elementary students under the direction of the then school’s art teacher Michele Scureman. That cake was the celebration centerpiece at the new C&RC, where TODAY hosted its sweet sixteen birthday party for invited guests and community residents. That was a special day! Now in the magazine’s 28th year, other covers also hold special meaning, but, for me, none more than these. Growing up in Erie, Pennsylvania, in the ’60s and ’70s, life brought me to Upper St. Clair in 1988, when Chet and I purchased a home in USC for its location, location, location! Living in this community for the past 34 years, I continue to appreciate the great services and amenities that USC Township and School District offer its residents. The 23 years with TODAY have flown by and have been formative years for me in so many ways. Thank you for letting me enjoy each and every one of those years with you! Look for an introduction to the new editors in the next edition of TODAY. I’ll give you a hint. You just might see the faces and hear the names of TODAY’s associate editor Terry Kish and Township communications specialist Becky Brindle taking on new roles. My hope is that it’s as exciting and fulfilling for them as it has been for me. Hoping to see you around the neighborhood, Linda Dudzinski

twpusc.org/usctoday | usctoday@usctoday.org 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Jeff Lagoni and Team—Leading with Love Chelsea Fitterer, Lagoni Team Coordinator Stockton Mortage Company NMLS 8259

nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Great leaders may be found at the top of a mountain looking back upon their challenges, but the greatest leaders are often found at the foot of that mountain still helping other reach that summit.—Robert Clancy There are certain people you meet throughout your life who leave a lasting impression. Jeff Lagoni is one of those people. Upon meeting and speaking with Jeff you can feel his heart, compassion, generosity and positivity which are contagious. With love serving as his driving force, Jeff has created a life and team aimed at helping others. Twenty years ago, Jeff began his career in the mortgage industry as a loan officer based in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. After 13 years as a solo loan officer, he took the advice of loved ones and started the adventure of building a team.

The first person to start with his team in 2015 was Chelsea Fitterer. She began as Jeff’s loan officer assistant. During the next few years, Chelsea would jump in wherever she was needed, and is now considered the “glue” as the Lagoni Team coordinator. Tom Hanft joined next as Jeff’s righthand man and the first loan partner. Jeff watched with amazement as Tom interpreted guidelines so well that he made people homeowners when other loan officers would not even make the attempt, earning him the nickname “Houdini.” Scott Cooper was hired for the team as its second loan partner. Scott’s expertise in the profession and his quiet demeanor have rightfully earned him the nickname “mortgage surgeon.” The company’s third loan partner, Krista Boehm, is a phenomenal addition to the

team. Her vast knowledge in construction loans and her passion for tailoring each loan to perfectly fit the individual is remarkable. Luke Zwicker is the team’s junior loan partner and the newest addition. Luke is passionate about the stock market and investments, and is a true asset to the team. He brings a fresh perspective and an eagerness to learn. Alongside the operations team are Kori Beadle and Mair Landwehr. The Lagoni Team is a close-knit group of true friends who genuinely care about one another. And while they have experienced the ups (and sometimes downs) of constant growth, the Lagoni Team is enthusiastic for the future and willing to bend with the winds of change to meet the ever-shifting landscape of customer needs. If you ask Jeff about his team, you will likely hear him say, “It’s not me, it’s our

Outdoor Immersion—The Brian Leek Story Brian Leek

In our busy world, it can be difficult to find a moment of peace. The mad dash in our vehicles to and from the workplace, shuttling the kids, the busyness of the next event or the project all make it seem that our schedules and lives get more and more hectic. The opportunities for moments of peace are over-ruled by attempting to keep everyone happy, the social media, the noise, the anxious building of tension. We just need a break! But for some veterans, like myself, there’s something deeper. The clattering of the world around us is just a layer on top of an existing tension that is ever-present. This tension comes from the remnants of a far-off land that lives inside us, a constant thought and memory of years ago. A time when the stand-still of cars at a red-light during rush hour was more than aggravation, but meant putting your head on a swivel and eyes peeled to both the rooftops above and the dirt and sand below, simultaneously. The thought of bullets cracking past your ear like a bullwhip, or explosions that violently rumble the ground you stand on. For me, these are memories of being an infantry Marine in Iraq. Most of us who made it home came back with varying degrees of disconnection from both physical and spiritual realms. With the constant tension and memories being the baseline of my every waking moment, life became heavy, seemingly unbearable. A short-term remedy is a quick chemical to dull the senses. We need not explain the tragedy that follows this method of treatment, whether prescribed or otherwise. The truth is, for me, life was meaningless, and it seemed there was no way out, no opportunities for brighter days, no glimmer of hope. I was to struggle through life to no end, marching along like a zombie until there was no more. How does one remedy this feeling? Nothing I tried could touch the pain. Not my doctors with their medications, not the 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

excitement of a romantic relationship, not the psychiatrists with their stern, or soothing, words, not members of the criminal justice community, not the well-intended people who wanted to help, and, certainly, not the chemicals that would do me in faster than I could wish. My life was utterly hopeless. Once branded a war Left to right: Brian Leek and Jim Skal, hero of the bravest America members of Outdoor Immersion, stand among Boyce Mayveiw Park’s beauty had to offer, I became an angry, isolated, unhappy, violent, drunk criminal, struggling with PTSD and an addiction with nowhere to turn. The U.S. was losing more comrades here at home after the war to a fatal mindset than we did back there to the enemy. Something had to intervene, spark a radical change. As a mere mortal, I did not possess the power to “pull myself up by my bootstraps.” And then I heard the words “Outdoor Immersion” and met a man by the name of Jim Skal. He came into a program in which I was legally bound to participate. With his bright personality and beaming attitude toward life, he introduced himself and said he was there to help. He befriended me. He did not think of me negatively, like I did, but more as a suffering human being who was shutting himself off from recognizing his Creator. The unique role that Jim played in my life allowed me to make many connections that led to some amazing experiences. My small world began to get larger. This is the power of God,

Call or text us team.” As branch manager, Jeff is able to focus on his main passion: helping agents grow their business by teaching classes to help everyone share, grow, and represent the real estate industry professionally. Jeff’s response also speaks to the importance he places on his team over and above himself—always thinking about others first, even in his business. In January 2022, the Lagoni Team found a new home with Kentucky-based Stockton Mortgage Corporation; a likeminded mortgage company with strong values rooted in helping others. Jeff and his team felt instantly aligned with Stockton’s southern charm, kindness, and personal warmth. Founded in 2001, Stockton now has more than 300 team members based in 23 states and growing. The Lagoni Team is proud to be a part of Stockton’s Canonsburg branch and is very excited for its future within the South Hills community. Giv-

412.253.2853

ing back to the community and to others has always been extremely important to Jeff. His humanitarian attitude also shows through in his active involvement with local groups, including Outdoor Immersion, an organization that is highlighted on the front cover and in the article and illustrations that begin on the previous page.

Jeff lives in Upper St. Clair with his wife Jodi, son Ty, daughter Lexi, German Shepard Sammy, Oreo the bunny, and Fred the cat. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys spending time with family, fishing at 84 Lakes, and sneaking in a sleeve of Oreo cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, and possibly a Ho-Ho for good measure! n

We are here for you.

Stockton Mortage Company NMLS 8259

Krista Boehm

Loan Partner 412.930.4060 kristab@stockton.com NMLS 748808

Tom Hanft

Loan Partner 412.945.7691 tomh@stockton.com NMLS 934642

Jeff Lagoni

Branch Manager 412.253.2853 jeff.lagoni@stockton.com NMLS 140105

nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Scott Cooper

Chelsea Fitterer

NMLS 135369

NMLS 1324427

Loan Partner Team Coordinator 412.668.4455 412.927.5310 scottc@stockton.com chelseaf@stockton.com

Jeff has helped countless families secure financing for their homes. Chelsea will work closely with you, from start to finish, making the loan process as smooth as possible. Tom, Scott and Krista are home loan experts and dedicated to helping you find the best loan for your situation, providing a clear explanation of rates and closing costs.

there is no doubt about that! That’s what Jim brought to me. Today I’ve got a relationship with Christ Jesus, who I found to also be Jim’s model. I can help others today just as I was freely helped. Jim brought me on to work as a mission facilitator last year, and I couldn’t be more grateful to extend my hand to help others who were where I was. Today, I have peace, which raises Jeff Lagoni (forth from left) enjoys me above the external and the day hiking with members of Outdoor Immersion in Upper St. Clair’s internal chaos. Boyce Mayview Park. The mission of Outdoor Immersion is to provide veterans and service members resiliency through faith-based outdoor adventure, recreation, fitness, and comradery. This is achieved through a variety of ways, including hiking, trail running, canoeing or kayaking, and cycling. With the immersion into nature, we gain a positive perspective shift toward life almost immediately, and almost every time! When that is followed up with discussion, instruction, and honest sharing, wonderful things transpire. And, when that is followed up by repetition, beneficial life habits rebuild and reinforce a foundation of resiliency. Seeing the beauty of creation all around us, it becomes evident that we are truly loved by God, and life takes on an entirely new trajectory. Outdoor Immersion is a Community Care Mission using outdoor activities to create connections of friendship, moving veterans from isolation to community, and rebuilding resilience

physically, mentally, and spiritually. Founder and executive direcstockton.com/jeff-lagoni tor Jim Skal turned Outdoor Immersion into his full-time mission Stockton Mortgage NMLS 8259 | Equal Housing Lender | nmlsconsumeraccess.org in 2017. Since then, Outdoor Immersion, a 501(c)(3) nonFor Mortgage Professionals Only. profit organization, has served veterans increasingly throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania, with requests coming from outside the state, as well. The mission that started with one man has become a team of nine, including seven veteran operators who conduct missions of walking side-by-side in life with veterans, helping them carry their burdens. Much like the tragedies of war… once we see it, we cannot unsee it; the same goes for experiencing life’s newfound bountiful Glory. n The two photos shown earlier in the article are from a weekend get-together last month, when Jeff Lagoni joined a group of veterans who hiked Upper St. Clair’s Boyce Mayview Park trail system. The beauty of these trails, blossoming flowers, flighty birds, bouncing streams, and waterfalls proved to be a healing and rejuvenating environment for these brothers to fellowship.

One of his simple pleasures, Jeff Lagoni catches a fish at 84 Lakes near Finleyville. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Freedom Isn’t Free Below is a speech given on November 11, 2019, by Ed Callahan to the USCHS students during a Veterans Day celebration. It includes a story about USCHS Class of 1965 graduate Wayne Keith Sippey. Wayne was killed in action in 1968 during the Vietnam War. He is the only known USCHS graduate to be KIA during a war. Wayne’s senior picture is in the 1965 USCHS yearbook and a plaque dedicated to him and his service to our country hangs in the main hall of the school’s academic wing. Good morning Panthers!

My four-year tour of duty in the United States Navy were some of the most interesting and exciting years of my life. I confess that I never set foot on a ship during my entire tour of Naval duty. I was trained in Naval aviation and was stationed on a variety of land-based Naval air stations on the east coast and also in Puerto Rico. For me, the military was my only real option after high school. My father died when I was a high school senior, and college, due to the cost, was out of the question. The Vietnam War was building at that time, and being drafted into the Army was a distinct possibility for me. When applying for jobs, my 1-A draft status made it impossible to secure a good position, so I researched the various branches of the military and decided to enlist in the Navy. The slogan at the time, “Join the Navy and See the World,” sounded like a good idea to a 17-year-old high school grad. My Naval service took me first to three months of boot camp in Great Lakes, Illinois, then eight months of aviation electronics training in Memphis, Tennessee. The next two years, I lived on a beach in Puerto Rico while flying in an old WWII patrol plane as a radio and radar operator. My final year was spent in Norfolk, Virginia, shuttling admirals up and down the east coast. My military service went by quickly, and I have many wonderful memories of that time. It’s true that I devoted four years of my young life to military service, but I received so much in return. Not only did I receive a first-rate aviation electronics education and experienced countless adventures, but I made several lifelong friends who I’m still in touch with a half-century later. But the most important benefit that I received was the GI Bill. I refer to it as my Uncle Sam scholarship. The money provided by the 12

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

GI Bill was sufficient to not only obtain my bachelor’s degree, but, because I loaded each semester with so many extra credits, I had enough money left over to also complete my master’s degree. My teaching career in Upper St. Clair would not have happened if it wasn’t for the benefits I received from my time in the military. But, Panthers, the theme of today’s Veterans Day assembly is “Freedom Isn’t Free.” So, I would like to tell you a story about another veteran. This veteran grew up in Upper St. Clair. He played on the same playgrounds and athletic fields that you do, and he was a graduate of a newly built Upper St. Clair High School. His name was Wayne Keith Sippey, and he was killed in battle in a faraway jungle in Southeast Asia much too soon. Sip, as I’m sure his friends called him, was born on April 18, 1947, the only child of Ralph Sippey, who worked for a glass company in Bridgeville, and Ida May Sippey, who was a homemaker. Sip grew up in the house located at 92 Long Drive. For those of you who may not know it, Long Drive is located just north of Fort Couch Road in the residential housing section located south of Mitchell’s Corners. I’m sure that some of you sitting here today reside in that same neighborhood, and I wouldn’t be surprised if one of you presently lives in Wayne Sippey’s childhood home. Wa y n e a t t e n d e d E i s e n h o w e r Elementary and then the middle school at Fort Couch. During that time, Upper St. Clair was in the process of building its first high school. As a point of historical reference before the demographic explosion known as the “Baby Boom,” which occurred after WWII, USC students who wished to attend high school attended either Mt. Lebanon High School or Bridgeville High School. Bridgeville High is now Chartiers Valley High School. Some of you may have grandparents who are longtime residents of USC and received their high school diploma from one or the other of those schools. The original USC High School, built on this very site, was completed during fall 1962. Therefore, it’s likely that Wayne spent his freshman year at Fort Couch, and then moved to the newly built school for his remaining high school years. I’m sure he sat in this very auditorium, played sports in the school’s original gym that still Summer 2022

Wayne Sippey, USCHS yearbook, circa 1965

exists today, and walked some of the same hallways that you do. Sip was a high school athlete. He played football and was a member of the wrestling team during his senior year. An average student, he achieved mostly “C” grades, an occasional “B,” and a few too many “Ds.” Wayne graduated near the middle of his class. Like most students, Sip had the ambition to attend college. His SAT scores were quite good, scoring just below 600 out of 800 on both the math and verbal sections. He applied to half a dozen schools that included West Virginia University and Youngstown State. Wayne graduated from USCHS with his class on June 9, 1965. I can’t find information about Sip’s whereabouts the year following his graduation. He may have attended college for a semester or two, but then realized that he either wasn’t ready for more schooling or that college just wasn’t right for him. Maybe he wasn’t accepted by the college he wanted to attend, and possibly decided to get a job the first year after graduation. I doubt we will ever learn what really happened during that brief period in his life. But, I do know in the late spring or early summer of 1966, Wayne Sippey enlisted in the regular army of the United States. As an enlistee and not a draftee, Sip would have had some choice in the job program he would follow in the Army, and had he wished to avoid combat in Vietnam, that path was possibly readily available to him. But, instead, he selected infantry training,

In 2019, USCHS technology education teacher Fred Peskorski, also an Army veteran, manufactured a plaque in Pfc. Sippey’s honor.

and after ten weeks of boot camp at Fort Benning, Georgia, he remained there and attended an additional 14 weeks of combat rifleman training. Shortly afterwards, Sip received orders to report to the ongoing war in Vietnam. Was he scared? He must have been. Any human being would be. Vietnam was unlike previous wars in that there really wasn’t a front line. To make matters worse, there was a well-trained and well-equipped insurgent guerrilla force known as the Viet Cong who had completely infiltrated South Vietnam. Unless you were on base, you were never safe. Wayne was assigned to A Company, 9th Infantry, 4th Battalion of the 25th Infantry Division, where he was an infantry indirect fire crewman. In addition to an M16 assault rifle, Sip carried mortar components. A mortar is a rocket-like projectile fired from a tube on the ground and directed at concentrations of enemy soldiers. For the next three months after arriving in Vietnam, I’m fairly certain that Sip participated in a series of search and destroy missions in the Vietnamese jungle. It was extremely difficult work in hot, tropical conditions. Then came February 26, 1967, the last morning of Wayne Sippey’s life. I found an actual account of the battle in which Sip and 19 other members of A Company were mortally wounded, with several more soldiers severely wounded. It’s interesting to note that one member of Company A, First Sergeant Max Yabes, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions on that day. Wayne Sippey lost his life in the Mekong Delta, South Vietnam, in Bing Duong Province. Company A was charged with providing security for a land clearing operation. It was considered a routine mission, but Sip’s company was lured into a deadly trap. Through the early hours of that morning, the company came under intense automatic weapons and mortar fire, followed by a battalionsized assault from three sides. Sip’s military company consisted of roughly 80 to 150 soldiers, compared to the Vietnam Cong’s battalion of 300 to 800 soldiers. Unfortunately, A Company was overwhelmingly outnumbered. Quickly penetrating the defensive perimeter, the Viet Cong advanced on the company command bunker. The command post received increasingly heavy small arms fire and grenade attacks, and was in imminent danger of being overtaken. Soldiers falling

everywhere, Sip valiantly stood his ground, fought the enemy, and was later posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for valor. Sip was eventually felled by machine gun fire. He died instantly on the floor of the Vietnamese jungle, 8629 miles from his home in Upper St. Clair. Private First Class Wayne Keith Sippey’s body was later recovered from the jungle and shipped back to his grieving parents. Buried in mid-March 1967 with full military honors in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, he was just 19 years old. It was by sheer accident that I discovered the fact that Wayne was killed in the Vietnam War. As a longtime teacher at Upper St. Clair High School, I often checked out various reunion websites online. While looking at the 50th reunion website for the USC Class of 1965, I discovered Wayne Sippey’s name, followed by “KIA Vietnam.” Stunned upon reading this and furthering my research, Wayne appears to be the only USCHS alumni to have been killed in action. Located on panel 15e, line 100, Wayne Sippey’s name is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, DC. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial of Pittsburgh on the North Shore, along the river walk between PNC Park and Heinz Field, also memorializes his sacrifice, along with the many other Vietnam veterans from western Pennsylvania. At this time, funds have now been raised for a plaque to be placed in Upper St. Clair High School, recognizing his ultimate sacrifice for our country. Fifty-two years after Sip’s heroic service, it’s fitting and overdue to honor him. T.J. McGarvey, another Vietnam veteran and longtime resident of Upper St. Clair (who is now deceased), was the driving force in building the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. He wrote and recited a poem at the monument’s dedication on Veterans Day 1987. The Vietnam War was the most unpopular and divisive war in U.S. history. To make matters worse, the warriors who fought in the war were the ones who were blamed for the conflict. Veterans were poorly treated after returning home from the war in the 1960s and through the ’70s. As you leave this auditorium today, please remember that our “freedom isn’t free.” In closing, I would like to share with you T.J.’s short, eloquent, and healing poem. n Welcome home to proud men and women We begin now to fulfill promises To remember the past To look to the future We begin now to complete the final process Not to make political statements Not to offer explanations Not to debate realities Monuments are erected so that the future might remember the past Warriors die and live and die Let the historians answer the political questions Those who served—served Those who gave all—live in our hearts Those who are left—continue to give As long as we remember— There is still some love left. —T.J. McGarvey Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Honoring Our Veterans A Veterans Day observance to honor veterans of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces was held last November at the Upper St. Clair Veterans Monument Park on McLaughlin Run Road. The event, open to the community, featured performances by Upper St. Clair School District musicians and a keynote address by State Senator Devlin Robinson, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. USC Veterans Park, located adjacent to the Township offices, was dedicated on November 11, 2011. T.J. McGarvey, a U.S. Marine veteran; William Babcock, a U.S. Navy veteran; the USC Board of Commissioners; and several Township residents were catalysts behind the planning, fundraising, and construction of the park. The final stage of the park, a statue of a ten-year-old boy saluting the flag, was dedicated in 2016. While we look forward to the upcoming summer and fall patriotic holidays and celebrating what these days signify, take the opportunity to read Ed Callahan’s article on page 12, “Freedom Isn’t Free.” n A full history of the park can be viewed at uscveteranspark.org.

—Photos courtesy of Terry Kish, USC TODAY staff 14

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Summer 2022

Remembering Don Larsen and David Stern Reminder of my New York days Jim O’Brien

My reflection of the deaths of Don Larsen and David Stern, both January 1, 2020, remind me of my New York City days, when I was covering the New York Yankees and New York Mets, as well as the New York Nets and New York Knicks. Larsen, a New York Yankee, was famous for pitching a perfect game—giving up no hits, walks, or errors—against the arch-rival Brooklyn Dodgers in the 1956 World Series. Larsen, an otherwise ordinary pitcher, performed the feat at the original Yankee Stadium on October 8, 1956. An iconic photo shows his catcher, Yogi Berra, leaping into his arms after Larsen retired the 27th Dodger by a strikeout. Larsen died at age 90 in Hayden Lake, Idaho. Stern was the commissioner of the NBA from 1984 to 2014, and was credited with the NBA’s fast growth and financial success. He succeeded Larry O’Brien in the top post. Beginning in 1966, he served as the league’s lawyer. Stern died at the age of 77. Reading his obituary, it caught my attention, since he was one month younger than me. I attended every NBA All-Star game when I was the editor of Street & Smith’s Basketball Yearbook from 1970 to 2002. Their annual report was called “The Bible of Basketball,” and it was the No. 1 selling yearbook for the sport. After I left New York, following nine years with The New York Post, to return home to Pittsburgh, I would see and speak to Stern at the league’s annual all-star games. He was always cordial and receptive. Whenever he’d spot me, he’d say, “O’Brien, when are you going to get us a team in Pittsburgh?” And I’d tell him that there was no one in the Pittsburgh business community who had the financial resources coupled with an intense interest in basketball. Stern was familiar with Pittsburgh because of the lawsuit Connie Hawkins brought against the NBA for banning him from Connie Hawkins, during playing in the league because of his playing years unsubstantiated gambling involvement. Stern was serving as legal counsel to the NBA at the time when Pittsburgh attorneys Roz and David Litman brought an anti-trust suit against the NBA for keeping Hawkins from playing in its league. Hawkins had played as a 19-year-old star for the Pittsburgh Rens of the American Basketball League, a team owned by Archie Litman, the brother of David Litman. “The Hawk” later starred as the ABA’s MVP for the Pittsburgh Pipers. In 1969, the NBA paid a settlement of $1.29 million to Hawkins and permitted him to switch leagues. When he did so, Connie called me on the phone when I was working at The Miami News and gave me an exclusive story on his legal victory and his signing with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. At the time, he was with the Minnesota Pipers. The Pipers had moved from Pittsburgh to Minnesota after winning the ABA title in 1968. I had moved to Miami at the same time. When I later interviewed Stern about the Connie Hawkins case, he said, “I never saw two attorneys fight more passionately for their client than Roz and David.”

Years later, I would see Don Larsen David Stern the Litman brothers in the lobby of Pittsburgh’s Oxford Centre when I’d be signing copies of my “Pittsburgh Proud” book series. They’d always stop to say hello. When I was working in New York (1970–79), I often attended Old-Timers baseball games, where former members of the Yankees, Dodgers, Giants, and Mets would participate in an exhibition contest at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees were the first team to host such games. The players from the past would assemble after the game in a nearby dining room for food and drink, mostly drink. It surprised me that more New York sportswriters did not attend those gatherings. Personally and professionally, I was glad they didn’t. In my early 30s and at this function as a sportswriter, I was more like a kid in a candy store, buying bubble gum and baseball cards. Among the former players usually present were Casey Stengel, Duke Snider, Monte Irvin, Carl Erskine, Roy Campanella, Sal Maglie, Don Newcombe, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Hank Bauer, Yogi Berra, Bobby Thomson, Willie Mays and, yes, Don Larsen. I was proudly brandishing a crooked Fu Man Chu mustache in those days and, at one point, I was being teased about it by Bauer and Larsen. Larsen, at 6' 5" and 215 pounds, was large for a ballplayer in those days, and Bauer, an ex-Marine and decorated combat veteran, had a face that was once described as “looking like a clenched fist.” They were, let’s face it, bullying me. Stengel came to my rescue. Getting between me and Bauer and Larsen, he said, “Let the kid alone! I tried to grow a mustache once when I was a ballplayer, but Left to right: Eleanor Gehrig, it came in green!” Claire Ruth That comment broke up the house in laughter, and Larsen and Bauer backed off. To this day, I credit Casey with a “save” for that intervention. I also recall sitting at a table and talking with the widows of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig that same night. Claire Ruth was a cordial, outgoing sort, while Eleanor Gehrig was a stern German woman, with little sense of humor. Eleanor didn’t drink, but Claire made up for it. Claire had been a model and danced in Broadway musicals as a younger woman. She was the second wife of Babe Ruth and served as a much loved ambassador for baseball. Claire Ruth’s last public appearance was at “Old Timers Day” at Yankee Stadium in August 1975. She died at age 79 in October 1976. Eleanor Gehrig died at age 80 in 1984. The deaths of Don Larsen and David Stern stirred up a slew of memories for me of my days in the New York sports world. They remind me of what a lucky young man I was to have experienced all of them. n Read Jim O’Brien’s book, Fantasy Camp: Living the Dream with Maz and the ’60 Bucs, written in 2005. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Father Knows Best Jay Lynch

As summer freedom replaces classroom rigors, USC kids may be spending more time with siblings, either at home or on family vacations. Increased interaction can result in the creation of delightful memories that reinforce Jay’s father, Jack Lynch lifetime bonds. However, as June’s pleasant warmth becomes August’s oppressive heat, brothers and sisters can be a little too close for comfort, and sparks can fly. When parental intervention is necessary, the threat of permanent removal of electronic devices or a whack with a wet dish towel usually restores household peace. But, sometimes, discipline by life-lesson can be a more powerful motivator of good behavior. My sister and I grew up in the ’60s on Mitchell Drive (USC’s Washington Terrace). We shared a wonderful life with great parents and enjoyed a fun “Wonder Years” style neighborhood. Bonnie Anne is 18 months my senior, which doesn’t sound like much of an age difference... more like Irish twins. But, when we were toddlers and during grade school, the span represented a significant portion of our time on earth and highlighted the fact that she was smarter and much more clever. Typical of many older siblings, Bonnie Anne teased me with playful mind games that took advantage of my gullibility and limited understanding of the world. Many were of the “made you look” variety, like “Jay, there’s a blue horse in the backyard!” or “Candied apples in the oven!” I learned to be very careful before reacting to her excited proclamations, and frequently sought independent verification: “Mommy, will drinking toilet water really make me taller?”

Jay and Bonnie Anne Lynch, 1961

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

As we got a little older, I became more successful with counter-teasing, and we both excelled at inventing single-use prank games, like “Heads I win, tails you lose” and a card game called “52 pickup.” One of her most creative games was “Who can touch the lightest.” To start the game, she said I The Lynch family could touch her as lightly as possible, and bared her arm. I touched her skin with a single finger, very softly. Then, she said it was her turn. I rolled up my sleeve and prepared for a very subtle touch, but she punched my arm as hard as she could. As I winced with pain, she declared, “You win!” I countered by asking her if she wanted to hear a knock-knock joke. Jay: “You go first.” Bonnie Anne: “Knock knock.” Jay: “Who’s there?” Bonnie Anne: Silent frustration. Sometimes these games became a little dangerous, like Bonnie Anne’s creation “The Step Game.” Our home had an enclosed staircase to the second floor that she deemed perfect for the game. The object was simple: stand on a step and jump to the landing. Each player had to move to the next higher step and jump further. She explained that the game would end when either of us refused to leap, and invited me to go first. I easily hopped from the first step to the landing and she jumped from the second. On my next turn, I prepared to jump from the third step, but I didn’t bother to look up, where an overhang loomed above. In order to make it to the landing, I had to jump high. When I did, I banged my forehead on the overhang and crumbled to the steps below. It was quite painful and embarrassing. Of course, I had to admire her cleverness in planning the game so that the perilous third step would come on my turn. As you might imagine, when prank games caused physical injury, as well as emotional damage, tempers could flare. On occasion, we would engage in spirited verbal sparring that would disturb household tranquility. If our spats turned physical, I would always lose, as Bonnie Anne was bigger, stronger, and more willing to pull hair and use her fingernails as weapons. Our commotion would upset our mother, who was never much of a disciplinarian. She’d threaten us with the loss of our only electronic

devices at the time, a Sears Silvertone transistor radio and a close-and-play record player. But her strongest words were those discouraged by popular ’60s advocates of soft child discipline, like Dr. Benjamin Spock: “Wait ’til your father gets home!” When he did, it was usually trouble for both of us, as he didn’t bother with assessing blame. With his typical sense of irony, he’d spank us with a Dr. Spock hardcover book. As we grew into our early teens, we continued our fun, but deceptive, pranks. Physical altercations sometimes ended the fun, but I started to be a more formidable foe as I was entering my teenage male growth phase. Our father knew that our childhood quarrelling had to stop, and devised an approach that ended it forever. One day, he heard loud verbal jousting in the house and could sense that pushing and shoving was about to begin. Rather than intervening with threats, he took us into a room and had us face each other, with only an arm’s length between us. He said, “Jay, for the past 12 years, your sister has been your physical superior. She’s won every fight and caused you great frustration and embarrassment. Now, the tables have turned. You’re bigger and stronger than she is. I’m going to give you one chance to make up for all those years of pain.” My father told Bonnie Anne to hold her arms at her side, and said I was allowed to take one shot at her. I could punch her with all my force, anywhere on her body. My already heightened adrenaline was really starting to pump, and I could see the fear in her eyes. Then, he said, “But remember, you’re now a man, and she’s a woman. And, a man never hits a woman.” I lowered my fist, and Bonnie Anne shed tears of relief. On that day, everything changed. Our competitive pranks ended, and we never had another physical altercation. We turned our creative energies to more constructive uses by focusing on friends, school, music, sports, the arts, and ending the war in Vietnam. Maybe Dr. Spock was right, child psychology is more effective than being whacked by one of his books. n Note: Sadly, Bonnie Anne Lynch (USC Class of 1970) passed away in March. She was a great sister to Jay and a wonderful aunt to his three boys. Check out Jay’s book, The Lighter Side of Upper St. Clair, released this past winter and available on Amazon. Contact Jay at bkefather@yahoo.com to share your ideas and thoughts.

TODAY Appreciates Its Student Interns Thanks

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY would like to thank two very special members of this year’s graduating class. For the past two years, Julia Roeschenthaler and Bria Zegarelli have worked as interns for TODAY, contributing compelling stories during a truly historic time, the COVID-19 pandemic. We are grateful for their contributions and wish them the very best in their future endeavors! Julia Roeschenthaler, USCHS Class of 2022, is the editor of the St. Clairion, the high school’s newspaper, and is part of the leadership committees for USC Spanish Club and the Upper St. Clair Girls Advancing Leadership (uscGAL) club. In June 2021, she founded her own business, Julia’s Vegan Cakery and Bakeshop. After graduation, she plans to study Spanish, creative writing, and possibly international relations at a university on the east Julia Roeschenthaler coast or in the Midwest region. As a result of her positive experience and enjoyment of her internship with TODAY, she intends to continue writing for some type of publication during her college years. Julia said, “Writing for TODAY introduced me to a unique and complicated side of my community, which, in turn, has driven me to more deeply analyze the foundations, characteristics, and politics of each situation that I encounter when reporting on subjects of long-term reach.” (See “USC Students Are Getting Down to Business to Better Their Community” on page 58.) Bria Zegarelli, USCHS Class of 2022, has yet to commit to a college, but her main focus of study will be English literature. She also plans to incorporate a minor and/or a second major into her curriculum, researching options that are in her field of interest. “Working with TODAY has been a very rewarding experience!” said Bria. “Not only did I hone my writing skills, but I also branched out and learned more about Bria Zegarelli my community. Ms. Kish (TODAY’s associate editor) was always extremely kind and accommodating throughout the process, and I loved the creative freedom that the magazine staff offered regarding my topics of choice. I’m excited to apply this experience to my studies and activities in college!”

Welcome

Emily Barrie, a junior at USCHS, is thrilled for the opportunity to be an intern with TODAY. Since childhood, Emily has developed a deep passion for history, and, as a result, she founded the high school’s Local Historical Leaders club (see page 60 for the article). She is also an active member of the auxiliary team in the school’s marching band. In her free time, Emily enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family. Maanasa Reddy, a junior at USCHS, is ecstatic to be an intern with TODAY. An active member of the school’s Speech & Debate team and St. Clairion newspaper, she also developed the club From Students to Students. Some of her favorite hobbies are drawing, writing, spending time with family, and playing with her dog, Pepper. Maanasa looks forward to connecting with fellow community members through her writing and photography. (See page 59 for photos she took of Seussical, the high school’s spring musical.) n Summer 2022

Emily Barrie

Maanasa Reddy

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Coach’s Corner

Reflections and Fond Memories Coach Jim Render “I learn from almost every coach with whom I come in contact” is the first sentence in the book, Hot Line to Victory, written by former Ohio State Coach Woody Hayes. It was written in 1969 after a Rose Bowl Ohio State victory over the University of Southern California. Coach Hayes began this book by dictating into a tape recorder as he flew by plane and helicopter into Vietnam (his fourth trip) to entertain the troops during that terrible war. He left from Los Angeles immediately following the game. The book was a best seller, and cannot be found on store shelves today. I feel fortunate that my copy is secure and in pretty good condition. The opening statement in Woody’s book is also true in my own tenure as a football coach. In speaking at coaching clinics, banquets, and various ceremonies, I have often given credit to the men who helped shape my professional life. I was extremely fortunate and blessed to be influenced by a group of Hall of Fame (HOF) coaches and men. In each phase of my athletic life, I was coached by an honored man. Beginning in grade school, I was taught how to throw and kick a football by my uncle, Ike Trubey (Trubey is my middle name). Uncle Ike was the head football coach at Elyria High School in Ohio, where he coached future Heisman Trophy winner Vic Janowicz. Uncle Ike is in the Ohio High School Football Coaches HOF, as well as the Wittenberg University HOF. Next, in junior high school, I was coached by Harold Ramsey in football and basketball. He is in the Ohio Physical Education HOF. Tom Armstrong was my high school freshman football coach and assistant varsity coach. He is also in the Ohio HS Football Coaches HOF. Next, my high school coach, Dick Haines, is in both the Ohio HS Football Coaches HOF and the Southern California Football Coaches HOF. When I graduated from high school, I went to Northwestern University, where I played for Ara Parseghian, who later won a national championship as the head coach at Notre Dame. When I transferred to Wittenberg, my head coach was Bill Edwards who was inducted into the National Collegiate Football Coaches HOF. Coach Edwards was also the head football coach at Vanderbilt, where he was assisted by my Uncle Ike and Steve Belichick. While they lived in Nashville, Tennessee, the Belichicks had a son, Bill, who is named after his godfather, Bill Edwards. (Maybe you’ve heard of Bill Belichick?) My quarterback position coach at Wittenberg was Dave Maurer. Coach Maurer succeeded Coach Edwards as the Wittenberg head coach, and he was also inducted into the College Football HOF. I began my coaching career in East Liverpool, Ohio, where I was an assistant coach to Bob McNea, who previously recruited me to go to Northwestern. He is also in the Ohio HS Football Coaches HOF. From East Liverpool, I went on to become a graduate assistant coach at West Virginia University. My immediate boss was our team’s offensive coordinator, a hall of famer by the name of Bobby Bowden, who later became a Florida State 18

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

legend. Most young coaches would like to have one or maybe two hall of famers on their resume; my resume included the aforementioned nine! I have been lucky to be tutored by such a significant list of coaches. Woody’s list is similar, but more impressive. In his book, he mentions Paul Brown, Vince Lombardi, Bear Bryant, and USC’s John McKay, among others, as contributing to his learning growth and for being his mentors. Let me digress and talk about my (and Woody’s) Ohio background. I am from Dover, which borders New Philadelphia, much like the borders of Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon. Same intense rivalry. In those days, we even argued about water. New Phila’s was laden with chlorine chemicals, while Dover’s came from a natural underground lake. Ours was great water; theirs was deplorable. And you guessed it… everything stopped during high school football game week. Nothing else mattered. The Dover vs. New Phila game was a traditional Thanksgiving morning game. I think you get the picture. Woody was raised in nearby Newcomerstown, where his father was the superintendent of schools. In 1936, Woody’s career began to take shape when he was hired as a history teacher and assistant line coach at New Phila. He would become the head coach from 1938 to 1940. He then joined the Navy in 1941 when he suspected that the U.S. would be involved in the war by 1942 and wanted to serve his country. That same year, he also married Anne Gross, a New Phila girl. In 1946, when he got out of the Navy, he was hired as head coach at Denison University, which was followed by head coach at Miami (Ohio), and then to his successful tenure at The Ohio State University. We all have memories of outstanding football games that we’ve witnessed or participated in during our lifetimes. It could be a Steelers Super Bowl victory, the Pitt vs. Georgia national championship game, or one of the two Upper St. Clair victories over North Hills in 1989. It’s fun to take a trip down memory lane. At the beginning of this article, I mentioned the 1969 Rose Bowl game. I was there with my high school coach, Dick Haines. He’d secured great seats from another of his former players, George Jenkins, a well-respected attorney in Columbus. We were sitting on the 45-yard line, about 25 feet from the grand marshall of the Rose Bowl parade that year, Bob Hope. Fifty rows behind us was the President-elect of the United States, Richard Nixon. Playing for Southern Cal was Heisman Trophy winner OJ Simpson. With USC (seeded #2) leading Ohio State (seeded #1) 3–0, OJ ran a toss sweep for an 80-yard touchdown. Woody called up to his defensive backfield coach, Lou Holtz, and asked why OJ went 80 yards. Coach Holtz replied, “Because that was all he needed.” In Hot Line to Victory, a drawing of the play showed the Pacific Ocean as the only thing that would have stopped OJ. The best defensive college football player I’ve ever seen

played for Ohio State that day—Jack Tatum. Several years later the College Football HOF in 2011 as a coach . Once again, I got he would make the hit for the Oakland Raiders that caused the some help from a Big Ten giant among coaches. Bo wished me ball to pop in the air when Franco Harris made the Immaculate well into the 90s. Upper St. Clair won two more WPIAL champiReception. It was a great day in Pasadena, California, as the onships and were the state runners up in ’92 and ’97. Thanks Bo! Buckeyes came back to win the game 27–16 and, consequently, I’d like to share one more story about Woody and The Ohio the national championship. State marching band. Back in the day before artificial surfaces, A decade later, I was named head coach at Upper St. Clair all football coaches were leery about the band tramping down High School. That year, I went to a well-attended coaching clinic the grass and making mud on a wet day or night. So, Woody at the William Penn Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. The main kept the band off the playing surface in Ohio stadium one soggy speaker was none other than Woody Hayes. I took my copy of Saturday afternoon. After a Buckeye victory, a sportswriter asked Hot Line To Victory along, in hopes that I could get him to per- Woody if he was going to apologize to the band. Woody said that sonalize my book. Woody always included he would not, but added that he thought they a message when he spoke, other than just were “the best damn band in the land.” That sharing things about the game of football. phrase stuck, and to this day it is the proud I’ve heard him lecture on General George moniker of the great band, using the acronym Patton. Patton and Woody both believed in TBDBITL. If you’ve not seen the band do its the strategy of always attacking and never rendition of Script Ohio, you’re missing one of falling back or retreating. Woody often also the greatest musical events ever! I visit YouTube quoted the philosophy of Ralph Waldo nearly once a week to watch it again and again. Emerson, who professed that “Blame is A tuba players usually dots the “i,” but somesafer than praise. When too much praise is times they invite a celebrity guest. Past guests heaped upon you, it is as though you stand have included Ohio natives Bob Hope and Jack naked before your enemies.” Nicklaus. Naturally, they used Woody as the “i” As the son of an educator, Woody made at the end of his coaching career. sure all his players faithfully attended classes Retired coach Woody Hayes was asked by Previously, on the pages of TODAY, I’ve writand would eventually graduate. On this day the Buckeye band to dot the “i”; afterwards, ten about my friend, Beano Cook, who was the he bowed to the crowd. at the William Penn, his post-Vietnam and greatest historian of college football that ESPN Watergate-themed message was to unite our and ABC employed. Beano was always worried country and go forward peacefully into the that he would die in the middle of football sea1980s. When he signed my book that day, son, before he knew the outcome of that year’s his spoken message made it into my book. national championship. However, he said that As for me, the 80s ended with WPIAL in an ideal situation, he would go to the Ohio State vs. Michigan game in Columbus, and he championships in both 1988 and 1989. would be accompanied by Stephanie Powers and A state championship in December 1989 asked to dot the “i” at the end of Script Ohio. If closed the ’80s in grand fashion. Thanks this happened, he would be ready to go! Woody! Earlier in the article, I mentioned three I was looking for help as the 1990s Ohio towns: Dover, New Philadelphia, and approached. Ironically, Woody’ adversary Newcomerstown. All located in Tuscarawas at Michigan wrote his own book in 1989. County, some of you may have traveled though Of course, that book became a part of my home library, as well. Titled BO, by Bo Comedian Bob Hope dotted the “i” during these towns on your way to visit Sugarcreek the band’s half-time performance of in the heart of Amish country. In addition to Schembechler and co-written by Mitch “Script Ohio.” Woody Hayes, Newcomerstown is also homeAlbom, its subtitle is “the Life, Laughs and town to baseball’s immortal Cy Young. Woody Lessons of a College Football Legend.” It’s used to sit on Cy’s front porch and listen to a great read! his stories. A few years ago, New Philadelphia The Michigan assistant football coach named its stadium after Woody, its iconic who was assigned to recruit players in former head coach. Between New Phila and western Pennsylvania was a good guy by Newcomerstown is Indian Valley South High the name of Jack Harbaugh. He is the father School, the school that produced West Virginia’s of Michigan Wolverines’ head coach, Jim famous basketball coach, Bob Huggins. Harbaugh, and Baltimore Ravens’ head Tuscarawas County’s inaugural Sports HOF coach, John Harbaugh. So, I made a copy of what Woody had written in his book and In frail health, Woody Hayes (left) attended is coming up in June of this year with two cera banquet in 1986 in Dayton, Ohio, emonies: one for the deceased and one for those gave Jack my copy of Bo and asked if he honoring Bo Schembechler. The next day, still living. Pardon me for boasting, but I will be would get his boss to give me a “boost” by Woody died. honored and humbled to be joining those pillars inscribing in my book. Although it remained in Ann Arbor for an extended period of time, it was finally mailed of the sports world in the “still living” category. Credit goes to back to me, along with a nice note from Lloyd Carr, who was my Upper St. Clair football players. Thanks men! n head coach at Michigan from 1997 to 2005 and inducted into Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Make a Difference—Volunteer! Paul K. Fox

Did you know? • There are 77.4 million volunteers in America alone. • 6.9 billion volunteer hours were recorded in 2018 (last Volunteer Demographic Statistics/National & Community Service Report). • 33.8% of the female population and 26.5% of the male population volunteer. • 30.7% of U.S. resident Baby Boomers (1944–1964) volunteer. • 36.4% of U.S. resident Gen Xers (1965–1979) volunteer. • 28.2% of U.S. resident Millenials (1980–1996) volunteer. • 25% of Americans use their free time to volunteer. • 15% of the volunteers do the majority of the volunteering. Pennsylvania statistics • 3,506,834 Pennsylvania volunteers contribute 341.0 million hours of service. • 34.2% of Pennsylvania residents volunteer, ranking it 21st among all states. • Pennsylvania volunteer service worth is an estimated $8.2 billion. • 98.8% of Pennsylvania residents regularly talk or spend time with friends and family. • 58.9% of Pennsylvania residents do favors for neighbors. • 22.1% of Pennsylvania residents do something positive for the neighborhood. • 33.4% participate in local groups or organizations. • 59.8% of Pennsylvania residents donate $25 or more to charity. Good for physical and mental wellness Do you need convincing that volunteering is good for your physical and mental wellness? According to Track-It-Forward, • Volunteering connects you with your community, which can lower the morality rate by 2.7%. • Volunteering helps your physical health, including decreasing the likelihood of high blood pressure development by 40%. • Volunteering can help decrease highstress levels, anxiety, and depression. • Volunteering increases self-confidence and self-esteem by 6%. 20

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give. —Winston Churchill

• 96% of volunteers claim they feel a sense of purpose, and are therefore happier and healthier. Considering the crush the coronavirus has had on our communities, now more than ever is the time to make a difference and volunteer! Consider rolling up your sleeves and joining teams of other eleemosynary. Look it up. It means “generous” or “philanthropic” individuals donating their free time.

Dog walking, anyone?

• Walk dogs at an animal shelter. • Assist food banks and meals-on-wheels agencies. • Enlist as a special advocate for abused or neglected children. • Work as a hospice volunteer. • Maintain parks, trails, nature habitats, or recreation centers. • Host an international student. • Assist at a local hospital, senior center, or nursing home. • Serve in charity fundraising projects. • Become a youth director, mentor, or Scout leader. • Share your hobby or experiences in a specialty and teach night classes or summer school. • Give guided tours or lectures as a docent at a local museum. • Apply office management and clerical skills to benefit libraries and other nonprofit associations. • Run a school club or coach a sport. A scan of the website volunteermatch.org will fetch several specific volunteer job openings: • Provide hospitality at Pittsburgh sporting events. • Serve coffee and snacks at winter warming stations. • Write articles or submit photographs to Summer 2022

local publications and e-media. • Visit hospice patients and provide other free-care services. • Crochet, knit, or sew blankets for needy families. • Connect with local veterans. • M a n a g e n o n p ro f i t e v e n t s a n d organizations. • Ring the Salvation Army kettle bells all year long. • Mentor an underserved child for everything from athletics to computer skills. • Make weekly reassurance calls or personal welfare checks of senior citizens. • Become a delivery driver of care packages of food, baby items, pet necessities, household items, and more. It might amaze you that a search of “the best volunteer organizations in Upper St. Clair” (and surrounding localities) by Volunteer Match would retrieve data on 689 nonprofit organizations! The Upper St. Clair School District has shared a comprehensive document for local community service opportunities on its website at uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/6916, categorized in the following areas: • Animals • Distribution Centers • Food Banks • Homeless Shelters • Medical Settings

• Mentally Challenged Adults • Museums • Nursing Homes • Outdoor Work • Outreach Services • Township Library

The Upper St. Clair High School library has put out this invitation to all USC residents: Parent volunteers help with shelving, copying, special long-term projects, organizing periodicals, folding brochures, assisting at the circulation desk, and other tasks as they arise. Usually, volunteers come to the library for an hour every other week. If you would like to become a parent volunteers, contact Janine Despines at jdespines@uscsd.k12.pa.us. I asked Pam Scureman, president of Boyce PTO, whether the schools needed volunteers despite the limitations of COVID safety protocols. Pam responded: “Audrey Hepburn said, ‘As you grow older, you will discover you have two hands— one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.’”

The USC PTC, PTSOs, PTOs, and PTA have all been busy recruiting volunteers for the upcoming new school year. She added that many of the parent groups will continue to hold virtual meetings, and that there will be limitations on the number of volunteers allowed in the schools at any one time. However, if you are interested in helping others at your child(ren)’s school, reach out to your parent representative or email Pam directly at boyceptopresident@gmail.com. In addition, you can select classroom “teacher pages” on the individual school building websites, where recruiting parent aides for odd jobs can be found, like these requested by Melissa Casella, Kindergarten, Eisenhower (uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/4323): • Math book organizers • Good News staplers • Field trip chaperones • Computer lab helpers In many issues of TODAY, we learned that Upper St. Clair’s Youth Steering Committee (YSC) is always looking for new participants, and extends an invitation for anyone interested to attend a YSC meeting, the second Wednesday of every month (September–June), typically held at the Community & Recreation Center. The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department (USC VFD) is staffed by professionally-trained and dedicated people who give of their time to provide fire protection for residents and businesses of USC Township. The firefighters are not paid for the thousands of hours they spend each year in various tasks, including fighting fires, training and fire prevention, and maintaining the fire trucks. Information about the USC VFD recruitment of new members can be found at uscvfd.com. An excellent way for citizens to become involved in local government and contribute to the quality of life in our community, the Township of Upper St. Clair is searching for talented volunteers to serve on its appointed boards,

commissions, and committees. Enroll by filling out a Talent Bank form that can be found at twpusc.org. In the event of a vacancy on a board or commission, the applications identify USC residents who are interested in volunteering their time and expertise. One of longest standing advertisers in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is the awardwinning healthcare provider St. Clair Health (SCH). Since opening the Dunlap Center in May 2021 and now staffing volunteers for both sides of the hospital on Bower Hill Road, there is an urgent call for more volunteer help. According to SCH’s website, “Escorting patients, assisting with clerical tasks, staffing the gift shop, or greeting visitors is just a sampling of the wide range of activities performed by the dedicated volunteers of SCH. Their selfless dedication and ability to provide an extra ‘human touch’ for patients and visitors is an essential component of its mission to serve others.” Can you spare four hours or more a week pushing wheelchairs to escort discharged patients? Since 2013 when I retired from the Upper St. Clair School District, it has been my privilege and honor to be a member of the “red-coat volunteers.” Call the director of Volunteer Services at 412-942-2085 to sign up, or visit stclair.org for more information. The Miracle League of South Hills (Casey’s Clubhouse) offers opportunities to support special needs children in the community, embracing the mission of “Every Child Deserves a Chance to Play Baseball” and “building teamwork and friendship.” Volunteer service activities, like those identified below, can be found on their website at miracleleaguesouthhills.org. • “Be a Buddy” program • Internships • Junior Board member • Coach • Game announcer, scorekeeper, or concession stand worker • Photographer

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair (CFUSC) is also looking for a few good people to join the CFUSC Board of Trustees, assisting in the management of its investment endowment, awarding grants, sponsoring social “fun” and “fund”raising programs, like its charity golf invitational, Community Day duck race, Step Out St. Clair, and other health focus area initiatives, USCHS Panther Paul has been known to dress up on special stadium blankets, f a m i l y m o v i e occasions while volunteering at the hospital. nights, giving teas, and more. For details, contact CFUSC president Gordon Mathews, who is also an Upper St. Clair High School counselor and the school’s alumni coordinator, at gmathews@cfusc.org. Apply by visiting cfusc.org. Finally, as if you need additional urging, for the young and young at heart alike, Joi Henry of the 2013–14 Youth Leadership Council (21st Century Leaders) probably said it best, commenting on why community service is essential: Community service involvement is important because volunteering teaches people of all ages and backgrounds compassion and understanding. One thing I like about community service is that there are opportunities to improve and leave your mark on your global and local community. Volunteering and putting on service events can be used as a way to advocate for causes that you are personally passionate about. Community service volunteering can also be the avenue to explore areas that you express interest. Volunteering is something that has no time limit; you can volunteer as much or as little as you’d like or have time for and still feel some type of fulfillment from it. n Volunteer statistics were found at the following websites: trackitforward.com, americorps.gov, devex.com, un.org, volunteermatch.org, and 21st century leaders.org.

Are you interested to join other members of the USC VFD? Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Citizen of the Year 2021

RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE District Court 05-2-20 Office: 412-835-1661 Fax: 412-835-4060

Hiras Professional Building 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Bethel Park, PA 15102

Meet Libby Mascaro, the recipient of the 2021 Upper St. Clair Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award. This past March, Judge Arnoni presented the award to Libby, recognizing her as an individual who demonstrates excellent community leadership, makes significant contributions to their community, positively impacts the residents of their community, and shows generosity and unselfishness through their actions. Libby grew up locally in Mt. Lebanon and moved to Upper St. Clair in 2004 with her husband, Michael Mascaro, who has lived in Upper St. Clair his entire life. Together they have two children, Mary and Abby. Starting at the young age of four, Libby’s passion for sports, specifically soccer, helped lead the way for her future coaching endeavors. Playing high school sports—basketball, softball, and mostly soccer—Libby played at every level and was an All-WPIAL and All-State soccer player while attending Mt. Lebanon High School from 1991 to 1994. In 1994, she was recruited for and played Division I soccer at Penn State University. Later, she graduated from Robert Morris University with a degree in communications, and began a career in the medical/sales field where she worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative for Pfizer, Inc.

USC Citizen of the Year award recipient Libby Mascaro and Judge Ronald Arnoni

Now, a full-time mom and in her 12th year of coaching soccer, Libby is head coach for the Beadling Soccer Club, 2009 Girls Academy team, and was head coach of the 2007 and 2009 Pittsburgh Assassins Futsal Club teams. She was also a USCAA (Upper St. Clair Athletic Association) travel soccer coach for two teams from 2014 to 2019. Libby’s volunteerism and contributions to the community and to the Pittsburgh area are nothing short of inspiring. She was a board member of the USCAA in 2017, a Baker Elementary PTA volunteer 2010–2017, co-chair for Baker Elementary’s new playground fundraiser in 2018, a No Place for Hate Boyce Middle School committee member 2018–2020, and a member of the CCIC (Upper St. Clair Community Curriculum Input Committee) in 2020. She co-founded the Mental Health Working Group for Children’s Hospital and Western Psychiatric Hospital in 2021. Libby began working in mental health advocacy to continue to spread awareness for mental health and to also make sure that the students of Upper St. Clair are healthy, both physically and mentally. Presently, most of her time is spent with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), AFSP (The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention), and the USC PTC (Parent Teacher Council) Wellness Committee, which she co-founded in 2017 with Dr. Daphna Gans.

State Representative Natalie Mihalek 40th Legislative District 724-942-2045

www.repmihalek.com

1121 Boyce Road, Suite 2200A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15241 Facebook.com/RepMihalek

Budgeting is a Chore That Cannot be Overlooked Only a small percentage of folks get excited when they assemble a budget. But for the rest of us, reviewing our finances is a chore, about as fun as cleaning behind the refrigerator. But, fun or not, if we fail to do either of them, the results can be messy, destructive, and possibly disastrous. Every February, budget season begins in Harrisburg. It starts with the current governor’s budget address during a joint session with both the House of Representatives and Senate. From there, each state department meets separately with the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to discuss issues related to their allotment from Pennsylvania’s General Fund. I have the honor of serving on the House Appropriations Committee. While meeting with the Department of Revenue, I discussed the possibility of raising the thresholds for the Special Poverty Provision Tax Exemption program to help Pennsylvania’s lowest wage earners, instead of increasing the minimum wage. This is the basis of legislation I introduced earlier this session, House Bill 603. The proposal would adjust the program’s qualifiers according to the rate of inflation, while lowering Pennsylvania’s Corporate Net Income Tax from the current 9.9% to 5.9%, which will position our businesses to expand and create more jobs that offer family-sustaining wages. I also pressed the Department of Labor and Industry about the bureaucratic delays in processing unemployment compensation applications. This lingering problem was greatly exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, and currently the number of constituents who are seeking assistance through my district office is as high as it was last year, even with the commonwealth’s overall unemployment 22

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

rate slowly decreasing. In all, nearly 40 budget hearings were held by both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. The dialogue held with each agency demonstrated in strong detail what aspects of their operations are working as they should, where improvements are needed, and whether funds appropriated to them are being used effectively. Upon the conclusion of budget hearings, the General Assembly begins working on a series of budget-related bills, aiming to have a new financial plan in place prior to the beginning of the next fiscal year on July 1. The Legislature is constitutionally mandated to pass a balanced budget, making certain that expenditures do not exceed revenues. During his address this year, Gov. Tom Wolf explained that Pennsylvania is in good fiscal shape because last year’s revenue exceeded expectations and because of federal COVID-19 relief monies. His proposal included a $43.7 billion spending plan that would increase state spending by a historic 16.6%. That equates to $17 million per day and $1055 annually per working Pennsylvanian in new state spending. My first of many concerns with this spending proposal is the revenue-to-expenditure estimate. The projections were evaluated by the Commonwealth’s Independent Fiscal Office, an impartial and non-partisan agency that constantly assesses our fiscal, economic, and budgetary conditions. Their analysis shows that Gov. Wolf’s proposal would create an $800 million shortfall in the next year. I also have concerns with the proposed usage of the federal COVID-19 relief monies. These dollars should be used for one-time

Her work for NAMI includes being an advocate, speaker, and fundraiser co-chair since 2013. She was the team lead for the 2013 NAMI Walks, Pittsburgh, and received an award for the highest fundraising amount of $25,000. In 2016, she was co-chair for the NAMI Green Light Gala. This was the first-ever black tie gala for mental health awareness in Pittsburgh, which raised $100,000 for local mental health programs. She is a board member of the TY Shields Memorial Scholarship, volunteered with Makea-Wish® as a wish granter, is an advocate for AFSP, co-chair for the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, and was also the event co-chair for the American Heart Association’s “Go Red Fashion Show.” Judge Arnoni presented Libby with a commemorative medal, certificate, and gift certificate from DeLallo’s restaurant. She also received citations from State Representative Natalie Mihalek’s office and Senator Devlin Robinson’s office. Judge Arnoni thanks all those who participated in the nomination process, as well as gives a special thank you to Allison Sweeney for submitting the nomination for such an excellent and well-deserving candidate. n expenditures to jolt Pennsylvania’s economy and benefit our communities, such as the legislation to allocate $250 million to hospitals, nurses, and emergency medical service providers that was passed earlier this year. However, Harrisburg must not use these federal monies to expand existing and recurring expenditures. Doing so will guarantee a future budget shortfall when the federal monies run out, commonly referred to as a “budget cliff.” I do agree with Gov. Wolf that this year, Harrisburg’s fiscal conditions are strong. This is the result of previous budgets being assembled with fiscal restraint and discipline. I have long believed that state government’s core functions, such as education, public safety, infrastructure development, and care for our vulnerable populations, should be prioritized, while safeguarding tax dollars and exercising fiscal prudence. The notion to “spend it because we have it” is one that neglects to recognize that tax revenue are dollars paid by hardworking Pennsylvanians. Like cleaning behind the refrigerator, assembling a budget requires regular attention and a commitment to being thorough. Failure to do so will be costly. n If you have questions about Pennsylvania’s budget or any other legislative topics, contact Rep. Mihalek’s office at 724-942-2045.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Commissioners

Check out the Township’s website

Daniel R. Paoly President At Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2025*

twpusc.org

Township Administration

Dante R. Plutko, Jr. Vice President Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-389-5187 2023*

Pamela L. Enck Ward 2

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

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

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 2023*

Todd D. Burlingame Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2023*

Richard I. Thomas At Large

Day 412-831-9000 2023*

All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at 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

Follow the Township of Upper St. Clair on social media for the latest news and announcements.

2022 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

*Date indicates expiration of term.

To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions. Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski......................... 2160 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield.................................. 2190 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton.................................. 2380 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito....................................... 2180 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni..................................... 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development George Kostelich, Jr................................ 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter.................................... 2470 Director of Library Paul Besterman....................................... 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.

Summer 2022

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings January 3, 2022

Approximately 19 people attended.

Reorganization of Board of Commissioners • Newly elected Commissioner Richard Thomas and re-elected Commissioners Todd Burlingame and Daniel Paoly were sworn into office as Commissioners of the Township of Upper St. Clair by the Honorable Ronald Arnoni. Re-elected Commissioner Pamela Enck was sworn into office earlier that day. • Commissioner Paoly was elected president of the Board of Commissioners. • Commissioner Plutko was elected vice president of the Board of Commissioners. Recognition • Commissioner Paoly presented a Certificate of Achievement to USCHS girls’ tennis team for capturing the 2021 WPIAL AAA championship. • Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation to Connor Payne for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.

• Adopted Bill No. 2-22 Re. Amendment to the General Employees’ Pension Plan document. Approval of Contracts: Police Vehicle: • Jim Shorkey Auto Group White Oak Two 2022 Ford Police Interceptor Utility AWD Vehicles........................................... $75,535 Public Works Vehicles: • Cleveland Brothers Murrysville One Caterpillar 308 Mini Excavator with three new digging buckets........................ $133,600 • Cleveland Brothers Murrysville One Caterpillar 420 07A Backhoe Loader with three new digging buckets........................ $122,650 • Hunter Truck Sales Butler One 2023 International Model HV507 4x2 Cab and Chassis...................................... $96,207.76 Public Works Equipment: • E. H. Griffith, Inc. Pittsburgh One Toro Groundsmaster 5910 16' Cut Rotary Mower.................................. $134,482.92 • E. H. Griffith, Inc. Pittsburgh One Toro Groundsmaster 3500-D.................. $39,930.54

March 7, 2022

Approximately 9 people attended.

Left to right: Commissioner Ronald Pardini, troop leader Walter Jarosh, Eagle Scout Connor Payne, Donald Payne (Connor’s father) The Board • Adopted Bill No. 1-22 Re. PLC21-0014−McLaughlin Run Storage–Nonresidential–Conditional Use Approval.

February 7, 2022

Approximately 6 people attended.

The Board • Accepted a check for $29,280 from the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association for the 2021 user fees.

Left to right: Erik Lund, USCAA vice president, Daniel Paoly, USC Board of Commissioners president, Rob York, USCAA president; the USCAA also made a $7500 user fee donation to the Upper St. Clair School District in March.

The Board • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC21-0017–Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on April 4, 2022. • Adopted Resolution No. 1715 authorizing the disposal of various Township records in accordance with the Municipal Records Retention and Disposition Schedule referenced in Chapter 11.7. of the Township Code. • Adopted Resolution No. 1716 approving a Grant Application through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Park Rehabilitation and Development Program for the Boyce Mayview Park/ Morton Complex–Park Improvements Phase I Project. • Adopted Resolution No. 1717 approving a Grant Application through the Department of Community and Economic Development Local Share Account for the Boyce Mayview Park/Morton Complex–Park Improvements Phase I Project. • Adopted Resolution No. 1718 authorizing Township participation in the SHACOG 2023 Joint Bid for a Contract for Solid Waste Collection, Removal, and Disposal Services. • Adopted Resolution No. 1719 requesting additional support/Interstate 79 at the Bridgeville Interchange Bridge Tolling. Approval of Contracts: • Mele & Mele & Sons, Inc. Braddock 2022 Annual Street Resurfacing (unit price contract) w/Alternate #1– Hays Park................................................... $1,955,052.60 • Russell Standard Corp. Valencia 2022 Street Crack Sealing (unit price contract)............................................ $37,000 • Johnson Controls, Inc. Cranberry Township Finalization of Door Access Hardware–PH-5 Next Generation Facility Improvements............. $92,521

Summer 2022

USC Named a 2022 Banner Community The Township of Upper St. Clair was recognized as a 2022 Banner Community by County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and the Allegheny League of Municipalities (ALOM). This marks the tenth year of the program, which distinguishes municipalities that show a commitment to professional development, prudent fiscal management, transparency, accountability, and proactive communications to engage community stakeholders. “We are proud to have been named a Banner Community for the tenth consecutive year. This honor demonstrates the Township staff’s continual hard work and dedication, providing efficient and effective government service,” said Township manager Matthew Serakowski. To be considered for the Banner Communities Program, the municipality’s elected and appointed officials must: • Participate in educational or training programs through ALOM, the Local Government Academy, or the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, or participate in a governing mentoring program. • Be active members in good standing with ALOM and the county municipal associations, and have a representative attend at a minimum 50% of county association meetings. • Be active members in good standing in a COG (council of government) and attend COG meetings, participate in a COG cooperative purchasing program, and participate in at least one shared municipal service. • Conduct a Local Government Week activity by conducting a local activity promoting local government or communicating with the community about delivery of services. • Conduct an effective citizen community program by offering a municipal newsletter or web-based communication effort, and participate in a class discussion on local government or conducting a shadowing program for junior or senior high school students. • Promote and implement long-term sustainable governing practices by earning certification through Sustainable Pittsburgh, managing employee pensions at funding levels of 90% or above, participating in the annual ALOM Wage and Salary Survey Program, and implementing goals of an upto-date Municipal Comprehensive Plan. n UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

CommUNITY Day

CommUNITY Day Schedule Saturday, May 21

Planned Activities After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CommUNITY Day is back! The day’s activities start at 8 a.m. at Boyce Mayview Park with the CommUNITY Day Fun Run: Decade Dash. Join this early morning run/walk for all ages as we race through time to the decades of rock. The fee for ages 5 and up is $15; ages 4 and under are free. No registration will take place the day of the race. Register at twpusc.org/communityday. At 10 a.m. at the USC Veterans Park help kick-off Community Day and acknowledge Armed Forces Day. The annual Community Day Parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. The parade will follow the route from Truxton Drive, along McLaughlin Run Road to Panther Pass, and up to the high school. The 1830 Log House will be open for a baked goods sale at noon. Tours of the house will be held noon–3 p.m., along with pioneer games and Knapp’s Battery re-enactors. The Gilfillan Farm barnyard will be open noon–4 p.m. Come learn more about what goes on at Gilfillan Farm through some outdoor family-fun activities. The house will NOT be open for tours, but there will be ways to experience those indoor spaces, outside. Gilfillan Farm’s exclusive event caterer, Atria’s, will have some food items available for purchase. In addition, Horses with Hope will be on site at Gilfillan Farm with their animals. The Petting Zoo and Inflatable Attraction will be operating noon–4 p.m. Thanks to patron donations, these activities will be offered free of charge, other than a minimal fee for food and milk for the animals. The Duck Race, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, will start at 3 p.m. Adopt your duck at the Foundation’s pre-sale or stop by their booth before the race. 

Check the School District (uscsd.k12.pa.us) and Township (twpusc.org/communityday) websites for the most up-to-date information on CommUNITY Day, including events and activities, times, and registration information. 26

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

8–9:30 a.m. ..................................... Community Fair Setup McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) Parking Lot 8 a.m. .............................................. Fun Run: Decade Dash Boyce Mayview Park 10 a.m..................................................... Kick-off Ceremony USC Veterans Park 11 a.m.–4 p.m................................... Community Fair Area 11:30 a.m.................................................................... Parade Immediately following parade .............Hottest Dog Contest Stage Area—Pre–registration form on page 27 Noon–3 p.m................................... Log House Open House and Bake Sale Noon–4 p.m................................................... Entertainment Stage Area Noon–4 p.m.............Petting Zoo and Inflatable Attraction To be determined Gilfillan Farm Barnyard Activities Gilfillan Farm area 12:30–4 p.m. ..................Volunteer Fire Department Tours Main Station, Route 19 (See page 27) 3 p.m.................................................................... Duck Race McLaughlin Run

CommUNITY Day USC VFD CommUNITY Day Festivities Join members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire

Department (VFD) on Saturday, May 21 at the main fire station, 2001 Washington Road, for its annual open house during Upper St. Clair’s Community Day celebration. Doors will be open to the public noon–4p.m., and shuttle buses will continually run between McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) and the fire department. Kids can enjoy time with the Sparky bounce house, visit with Sparky the Fire Dog, and watch demonstrations of firefighter equipment. VFD members will be on hand to answer questions that kids and adults might have. On display will be videos and pictures of the fire department’s history. Stop in to meet the fire chief and volunteer members. While you look around, enjoy some fresh popcorn or get a hotdog, chips, or something to drink while you become acquainted with the facility. We look forward to seeing you! n

2022 Upper St. Clair Community Day

Details

H test Dog Cоtest

When: May 21 Where: Main Stage Time: 12:00-1pm Pre-register by: May 18 $5 registration fee All dogs get a treat for registering!

3 wa

Rules

• Must be USC resident • Owners must provide proof of up-to-date shot records upon entry • Pets must be leashed • Pre-register by 5/18/22.

You may register at the event if you miss the pre-register deadline.

1) Scan the QR code to register online 2) Email this form to Robbinsbobbitt@howardhanna.com 3) Drop completed registration form off at either of the following: • Howard Hanna Real Estate Services | 180 Ft. Couch Road, USC 15241 • Upper Stt. Clair Library | 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC 15241 Name

Signature

Address

Parent/Guardian if under 18

Phone Email Dog’s name Dog’s Breed Dog’s age

Special thanks to: Upper St. Clair School District: Brooke Tarcson, Student Activities Assistant Dr. Steve Torquato, Social Studies Teacher Student Volunteer Chairs: Overall: RJ Shontz Fair Area: Sarah Christensen, Marina Gzikowski Entertainment: Tori Slagle, Maura Joyce Information Booth: Shreya Golakyia, Teaghan Ciesco, Phillip Markovitz Opening Ceremony: Stephanie Spina, Ashvita Saxena, Eva Rankin Parade: Yoshna Venkataraman, Charlie Stohl Parking Lots: Eddie Albert, Jake Howard Publicity: Colin Eccher, Grace Kelly Township of Upper St. Clair: Department of Recreation and Leisure Services Public Works Department USC Police Department USC Volunteer Fire Department Becky Brindle, USC Communications Specialist Glenn Ward, USC Public Access Television Other USC Groups: Tri-Community South EMS Upper St. Clair Historical Society, Gilfillan Homestead and Farm–Rachel Carlson 1830 Log House Association–Kim Guzzi Community-at-Large Volunteers

Shuttle Bus Parking Shuttle bus service will be available to the Municipal Building every half-hour starting at 10 a.m. from the following locations: • Boyce Middle School • Fort Couch Middle School • Gilfillan Farm • USC High School • Westminster Church South Lot • Fire Station Please be advised that permit parking only will be allowed in the Public Works parking lot on Truxton Drive.

A CommUNITY Day wrap-up, including a complete list of all patrons, will appear in the Fall 2022 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank our kind and generous patrons for their financial and in-kind support of CommUNITY Day 2022! Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Invasive Spotted Lanternfly Gary Schafer, USC Township Parks and Forestry Administrator The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatul), a native insect from China, India, and Vietnam, has been wreaking havoc in Pennsylvania since 2014 when discovered in Berks County. In its native land, the spotted lanternfly (SLF) has predators to keep the insect at bay and from causing widespread destruction of the agriculture crops and ornamental trees. The SLF does not bite; however, it uses its piercing and sucking mouthparts to suck nutrients out of plants’ leaves, stems, and trunks. To date, there are few known predators of the SLF. Predatory bugs, like the praying mantis or parasitoids wasps, attack the SLF during different growth periods of the insect. There are also fungus pathogens that can control the SLF during different growth stages. These biocontrol measures show great potential to manage the SLF population; however, insecticides may still be necessary for control.

There are more than 70 plant species to which the SLF are attracted. A favorite plant choice is Ailanthus altissima, also known as the Tree-of-Heaven, a nonnative, highly invasive plant that is often considered a weed tree. Major concerns are for the other prize species of plants— maple, apple, plums, grapes, and hops— that the insect is attracted to. How to help control this insect is to squish it and remove its egg masses. In the fall, the adult SLF lay egg masses, which look like putty. Those egg masses can be found on almost any hard surface. They are often found on trees; however, expect to see them on the side of your house, car, patio furniture, or any other hard surface. Inspect your vehicle when traveling. Should you see egg masses, scrape off the masses with a plastic card or putty knife. Place the mass in a container or plastic bag filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill the eggs. You can also

burn or smash the eggs. Controlling an egg mass can kill 30 to 50 potential SLF. Reporting SLF helps officials understand the movement of SLF and identify quarantine counties (1-888-4BADFLY). Commerce within and in and out of quarantine counties has special regulations. n

Spotted lanternfly infestation of a tree trunk

Find more information at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s webpage, agriculture.pa.gov.

USC Community Development

Know the Rules

According to the Township of Upper St. Clair Codes: • Lawns need to be maintained at a maximum height of six inches from April through October. • Vehicles without current inspection or registration must be stored in a completely enclosed structure. • Waste receptacles and recycling containers should be placed at the curb line after 6 p.m. the day before collection, with removal before midnight the day of collection. • Boats, trailers, campers, and other types of recreational vehicles must be stored in completely enclosed structures. • Garage sale signs are permitted, provided the following regulations are met: » Signs are located only on the lot where the sale takes place. » Signs are displayed only on the day of the sale. » Signs do not exceed nine square feet combined. » Signs are set back a minimum of ten feet from any side lot line. » Signs are to be placed outside the Township right-of-way. Typically, the right-of-way

•

extends a minimum of 13 feet back from the edge of the street or curb. » Signs may not obstruct sidewalks. No structure may be placed within the Township right-of-way, except for a driveway or mailbox. A structure is any object having a stationary location on or in lots. The Township right-of-way typically extends back 13 feet from the edge of the road. A newspaper tube is permitted, provided it is attached to the existing mailbox post. The newspaper tube may not be supported by a separate structure, such as a post or column. Realtor open house signs are permitted, provided the following regulations are met: » One tent- or easel-type sign, not to exceed four square feet. » Sign permitted to be displayed Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. » Sign must be located a minimum of 13 feet back from the edge of the street or curb. » With permission of property owner, open house signs may be placed on a lot other than the one for sale with the same restrictions above. » No open house signs are allowed on Township-owned property. Stormwater management permits are required

as of January 7, 2019, for all residential small projects proposing additional earth disturbance or impervious area greater than 400 square feet. These requirements apply to both new development and redevelopment. Stormwater management permits must be obtained before the submission of a building permit. • Building permits are required for most construction and remodeling projects. Typical projects that require a building permit include, but are not limited to, sheds, garages, swimming pools, decks, additions, retaining walls, driveway pillars, and patio enclosures. Some projects, such as patios and driveways, require only zoning approval. In all cases, when a building permit or zoning approval is required, a land survey of the property must be submitted as a part of the permit application process. The Township may have a copy of the property survey on file.

Check the Township website at twpusc.org for types of projects requiring a permit and the application process. Questions concerning permit requirements can also be directed to the Community Development Department at 412-831-9000, extension 5010.

Questions? Call 412-831-9000, ext. 5010, or visit twpusc.org. 28

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Community Gardens Continue to Blossom in Upper St. Clair Becky Brindle, Township Communications Specialist

At the southeast corner of Upper St. Clair Township, where Boyce Road meets Morton Road, you’ll find the oldest community gardens in Allegheny County. After 47 years, Boyce Gardens continues to blossom. Sponsored by the Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania, Boyce Gardens began as the Garden Plots at Mayview State Hospital in 1975. With 30 different gardeners taking part in its inaugural season, the plots were plowed by employees of the hospital. The gardens grew in popularity, and later became the Governor’s Bicentennial Garden, with 75 garden plots available for community use. The Boyce Gardens property is now owned by the Township of Upper St. Clair and contains 65 plots. A volunteer committee organizes the gardens each year, opening with an informational meeting in April. Gardeners celebrate with a garden fair in August, and the gardens are cleared and close in October of each year. According to one of the main organizers, Phyllis Kender, Boyce Gardens became wildly popular during the pandemic, and all plots are full for the 2022 growing season. About 20 years ago, the committee banned a number of products that are not allowed for use in the gardens. Phyllis says the gardens are entirely organic. n

A photo of Boyce Gardens in March, before planting has begun

Shown are photos from the 2021 planting and harvest.

For more information about Boyce Gardens, call Phyllis Kender at 412-221-3118. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

NextGen Municipal Building Renovation Project

The Township of Upper St. Clair municipal building is undergoing a renovation. Construction began in November 2021 and is expected to be completed by December 2022. The work will likely cause a disruption this summer for library patrons and Municipal Park goers. Among the benefits will be improvements to the Township library and police department. The project will move the kids library to the second floor. A new, enclosed bridge will connect the kids and adult libraries. Having both libraries on the same floor will address the existing issues of accessibility and restroom facilities. The existing kids library on the third floor will be reconfigured into a combination of meeting rooms, study rooms, and Rendering of the police department community space, with access to the new outdoor rooftop courtyard. The main entrance facing McLaughlin Run Road will serve as a hub for visitors during business hours, becoming the primary entrance to the tax office and administration area, the police department, and the office of planning and community development. The police department will also receive a much-needed expansion and modernization. New garages will be built for police vehicles. Updated technology will be installed in the dispatch center and police conference room, and the officers’ locker rooms will be expanded and modernized. The NextGen renovation project planning began in 2018 when the Upper St. Clair School District announced its plans to vacate the municipal building for its own space that was designed and built above the high school stadium. The project is being financed by a 20-year bond issue that was approved by the Township board of commissioners in February 2021. n

Rendering of the library, its fill-in area, and new rooftop design, accessible from the newly configured third floor

Rendering of the back of the municipal building 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Visit the Township website, twpusc.org, for the most up-todate information on the NextGen renovation project.

Clair’s Kennel

A temporary home for lost pets

Becky Brindle, Township Communications Specialist Clair’s Kennel has served as a temporary home for wandering pets for nearly 45 years. The facility was built behind the Upper St. Clair municipal building in the late 1970s to enact a joint animal control program between Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon. Soon after, Scott Township joined the co-op, and today, 14 communities depend on South Hills Animal control officers, Cooperative Animal Control for its services. left to right: Monica Slate, Samantha Hermann The animal control officers serve 160,000 residents throughout 80 square miles. According to Robert Interior of Clair’s Kennel Fredley, animal control officer, they receive roughly 5000 calls a Clair’s Kennel vehicles used for year. Some calls are for help with nuisance animals, other calls facility now has seven new cages animal rescue are about lost pets. Robert says it’s important to call the Upper St. to temporarily keep lost pets and Clair police dispatch number as soon as you lose a pet or notice has started to receive a new fleet of vehicles. South Hills Cooperative Animal Control officers are on duty a wandering pet. It truly helps the officers reunite lost pets with their owners. “Our success rate is about 95%. It usually only seven days a week, 7 a.m.–9 p.m., Mondays–Fridays, and 7 a.m.– takes 24 hours, or a couple days at most, to reunite a pet with its 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. They also provide emergency owner,” said Robert. After ten days, the animal control officers service 24 hours a day at the request of police officers. n call around to local animal shelters, like Animal Friends, for any Follow South Hills Cooperative Animal Control on Facebook assistance they can provide. “We have a good list of organizations (facebook.com/SouthHillsAnimalControl). Call police dispatch at that we rely on,” he said. 412-833-7500 for animal control assistance. Last year, Clair’s Kennel received a small renovation. The

Hays Park Renovations

Gary Schafer, USC Township Parks and Forestry Administrator Plans are underway to renovate Hays Park this summer. New playground equipment will replace the equipment installed in the early 2000s. The basketball and tennis courts will get new pavement, and the playground will be completely replaced with amenities that will better challenge its users and strengthen their bodies and minds. Expect the repaving of the tennis and basketball courts to be a slow process. The courts will sit idle for about four weeks, during at which time the asphalt will cure. For a quality outcome, albeit slow, this crucial step will allow for proper paint adhesion to the surface. The asphalt paths around the park will also be repaved to provide a smooth surface, as residents enjoy a walk around the park. We appreciate everyone’s patience while the park undergoes its makeover. While the splash pad will remain untouched, it will not be accessible until renovations are completed. As portions of Hays Park will be closed during construction this summer, see page 32 to learn about the Township’s 17 other parks. Change it up and visit one or all of the other Township parks for a new adventure close by!

Hays Park is a great asset for our community and, once renovated, will be a place where kids will be begging their parents to take them! n

Questions? Call Public Works at 412-831-9000 or Recreation and Leisure Services at 412-221-1099. Hays Park will receive a facelift this summer

Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Get Outdoors!

USC’s parks provide many choices The Township of Upper St. Clair can fill your summer days with fun and laughter as you and your fam-

ily visit its many parks and parklets. Go for an early morning stroll or pack a lunch and stay to play. Feel the evening’s cool breeze as you enjoy the swings, climbing bars, a ball field, or a welcoming bench. You don’t have to travel far to enjoy green space and summer activity. Hays Park is being updated this summer (see page 31 for details). Visit twpusc.org/recreationcenter for more information about all our Township parks.  Site

Fields/Courts

Baker Park 13.82 acres

1 small baseball field, 2 lighted basketball courts (pickleball lines added, bring your own net) 1 lighted sand surface volleyball court, 2 tennis courts (pickleball lines added), 2 lighted bocce courts

Beadling Soccer Field 3.36 acres

soccer field

Boyce Field 1 acre

baseball field

Boyce Mayview Park 475+ acres

1 baseball field (rentable), 1 softball field (rentable), Multi-purpose field (rentable), 1 Miracle League baseball field, All fields have sports lighting

Playground Equipment Play unit and swing set

Miscellaneous Small shelter, water fountain, picnic tables, grass play area, large covered sand play area, natural surface trail head, perimeter trail, extra pickleball courts at the basketball courts (must bring your own net)

Dugouts, batting cage, bleachers The Clubhouse at Boyce Mayview is the allinclusive, custom-themed playground adjacent to the Miracle League Field for kids of all ages and abilities, featuring tower slides, ball glove tube slides, replica Clemete Bridge, water misting tree and misting fountain, piano, and a NEOS 360 electronic aerobic game

Natural area and wetlands, ten miles of natural surface walking trails, expanding perimeter trail along eastern portion of the park, including a pavilion with public restrooms (rentable facility), open space, Community & Recreation Center, with its 90,000-square-foot facility featuring indoor/outdoor aquatics, state-of-the-art fitness, group fitness rooms, 1/8 mile walking track, 2 fullsize basketball courts, rentable community rooms, restrooms at the Miracle League/Clubhouse playground, shelter at Miracle League field, baseball field concession building, Boyce Gardens (rentable through Boyce Road Garden Club) Natural area

Brookside Park 3.7 acres Byrnwick Park 7.05 acres

1 lighted basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

Play unit and swing set

Walking track, water fountain, walkway lighting, grass play area

Clair Park 2.2 acres

1 basketball court

Play unit with slide and swing set

Splash pad, cozy dome climber w/rubber safety surface, shelter, water fountain, LED walkway lighting 1.25 mile outer loop wood chip trail with interior trail through meadow

Gilfillan Park 59.57 acres Hays Park 4.21 acres

1 basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

Play unit and swing set

Asphalt walking trail, splash pad, small shelter, water fountain, grass multi-purpose area

Johnston Park 2.48 acres

1 lighted basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court, 1 lighted hockey court with goals

Play unit and swing set

Walking path, water fountain, walkway lighting

Marmion Field 11.32 acres

1 soccer field, 1 lighted baseball field

Morton Complex 7.5 acres

3 soccer fields, 1 lighted field, 2 lighted baseball fields

Play unit

2 batting cages, concession building, shelter, dugouts, announcer’s booth, natural surface trail head, perimeter trail

Municipal Park 29.75 acres

10 lighted tennis courts with 6 courts under air structures for winter season, 2 lighted paddle courts, 1 lighted little league baseball field with dugouts, concession stand, picnic shelter, 2 lighted basketball courts, 1 sand volleyball court

Swing set, separate play structures for 2–5 and 5–12 year-olds, with synthetic turf safety surface, mega-tower w/two ten-foot twist tube slides, climbing wall, tot and traditional swings, and Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing rock

McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) (rentable facility) building with meeting facilities, kitchen, and restrooms, fire circle, large picnic shelter, 3-hole golf course, water fountain, batting cages, rain garden educational/picnic site

Shelter and bleachers, 2 water fountains

Natural area

Ravine Park 10.51 acres Trotwood Park 8 acres

1 basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

Play unit and swing set

2 water fountains, shelter, splash pad, walkway lighting, grass play area

Tustin Park 6.52 acres

1 basketball court

Play unit and swing set

Asphalt/wood chip walking trail around park Visual presentation of military history, benches, lighting

Veterans Park Wiltshire Park 11.2 acres

2 lighted basketball courts, 1 lighted street hockey court with goals

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Poured-in-place rubber and synthetic turf Restrooms, pavilion, seating area, grass play safety surface playground built in the hillside, area, walkway lighting, water fountain which includes horizontal net climber, cable bridges, roller slide, double deck tower with slides, Omni spinner, swings with infant seats, a sand play area, and frog splash pad

Summer 2022

Take a walk in the park! This trail map can also be found on the Township website at twpusc.org under the Parks & Fields tab. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Recreation and twpusc.org

Summer Camp Registration is Open

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers numerous camps for children, ranging from Pre-K to grade 12. Campers will spend their days exploring the outdoors, learning how to care for animals, improving their physical fitness, performing science experiments, or creating their own masterpieces. There are so many options, the choice is yours! Sign up for a camp that interests you! Maybe there’s more than one! To view a complete list of the summer camp offerings and to register, visit the Summer Camp page at twpusc.org/summercamp.

Outdoor Pool Opening

The outdoor pool at the C&RC will open for the summer season at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 28. Daily operating hours are 11 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday throughout the summer. Holiday hours (11 a.m.–5 p.m.) will take place on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

Information for Seniors Friday Afternoons in the Park Soak in the sunshine and warm weather while enjoying the afternoon in the park with friends. This free program is open to all individuals ages 55 and up, including USC and surrounding community residents. Each meeting will take place under the large pavilion in Boyce Mayview Park. Additional details about each gathering is available on the Recreation Department’s website. Reservations required. Dates: Fridays May 13 August 19 June 10 September 9

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

USC Township Silver Card The Township Silver Card is free and available to residents ages 62 and older. To obtain a Silver Card and receive access to a select number of group exercise classes, USC’s three-hole golf course, as well as a complimentary summer tennis permit, visit the Community and Recreation Center, 1551 Mayview Road. Silver card applications are available 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Monday–Friday. A valid photo ID showing USC residency is required upon application. Residents who acquired their Silver Card prior to 2019 are encouraged to re-apply for and receive a new, updated card.

USCSD Gold Card Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission. To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Leisure Services 412-221-1099

New Year, New Me! Wellness Challenge —an overall success

Katy Heslop, C&RC Fitness Coordinator For many of the “New Year, New Me!” wellness challenge participants who started at the beginning of 2022, this was their first time returning to a fitness routine since the onset of the pandemic. The pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on our physical and mental health. You may ask: How did the pandemic have a positive impact? I would have asked myself that same question. But, after seeing these 59 individuals power through this wellness challenge, their determination and strength were undeniable. During the first day of pre-testing, I remember that many of the participants were frustrated with their initial findings. I saw upset faces. They were disappointed that they’d fallen off their personal fitness goals. But, as the program continued and post-test results came in, I got to share in the glee that so many of them noticed as they got back on the right track. During the six-week wellness program, participants received six one-on-one personal training sessions, a nutrition and wellness consultation with a certified health coach, A job well done! health seminars, and access to a fitness app to help track their progress and compete against each other in weekly challenges. Throughout the program, participants saw a combined loss of 98.2 pounds, improvement in muscular strength of 89% and endurance by 82%, improvement in cardiovascular endurance by 79%, and an increase of flexibility by 86%. We also saw 86% of the participants decrease their resting heart rate, and 83% saw a decrease in their blood pressure. These statistics proved that the negative effects of the pandemic could not slow down these individuals. They were victorious! Many participants would recommend this program to a family member or friend, and 81% are continuing personal training at the C&RC. I would like to thank all the participants of the New Year, New Me! wellness challenge for pushing themselves and giving this program their all. Each of you deserves to be recognized for Stretching the amazing things you have done in six weeks. We are proud of you and congratulate you on your successful journeys! n

C&RC Membership Rates The Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park is committed to continually enhancing the programs and services that it provides the community. The center also strives to keep the cost of membership as low as possible, working hard to be good stewards of your money and spend those dollars in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible. The C&RC is pleased to report that its membership rates have remained Membership USC Surrounding unchanged since inception in 2012 until earlier this year. However, just Category Resident Rate Community Rate like all other businesses, the C&RC has found it increasingly difficult to keep pace with inflation and the ever-rising cost of operations. To maintain Youth $35 $45 its commitment to the high standard of services it offers its membership, Adult $49 $61 monthly rates on all membership categories will increase beginning May Family $90 $111 2022. Senior $35 $45 The new membership rates are listed here. n Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department is here to answer any safety questions you might have. Call the adminstration number at 412-835-0660. 36

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

USC Police Department News Citizens’ Police Academy The Upper St. Clair Police Department is hosting its 2022 Citizens’ Police Academy this coming fall. The academy is a special opportunity available to adults 21 years of age and older who live, work, or conduct business in Upper St. Clair. The course schedule and application will be made available to the public on August 1, both in person at the police department and on the Township website at twpusc.org. Retirement Sue Lekse retired from the USC Police Department this past March, after nearly 25 years as the police records coordinator. She handled much of the “behind the scenes” work of law enforcement and played an integral role in the administration of justice throughout her career. Sue’s dedication to her job will have a long lasting impact on the department. We wish Sue every success in her retirement, and hope her days ahead are filled with joy and relaxation. n Questions? Contact police administration, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. at 412-833-1113.

USC Street Resurfacing 2022 Below are the scheduled Upper St. Clair streets to be resurfaced during the 2022 season. Visit the Township website at twpusc.org for up-to-date information for possible changes.

Street Name

Alamo Drive Algonquin Road Billings Drive Conewanta Road Deer Meadow Drive Edgewood Drive Fife Drive Giant Oaks Drive Hardy Drive Hastings Mill Road High Sierra Circle Huntington Drive Ivanhoe Road Kings Lane Lindenwood Drive Marshfield Drive Morrow Road Old Meadow Road Orchard Drive Partridge Drive Ponoka Road Rose Circle Siesta Drive Woodsdale Drive

Termini from/to

Monterey to Carmell Ivanhoe to Ponoka Old Meadow to cul-de-sac Ivanhoe to Ponoka Truxton to cul-de-sac Johnston to Corteland Lindenwood to Hardy Hastings Mill to Ashlawn Fife to Forest Brook Old Washington to Morton Siesta to cul-de-sac Weston to Johnston Lamar to Conewanta Edgewood to Southvue Sunnyfield to Fife Rossmoor to cul-de-sac McLaughlin Run to Morton Lesnett to Rolling Meadow Johnston to terminus Chapelwood to cul-de-sac Algonquin to Conewanta Old Meadow to cul-de-sac Alamo to cul-de-sac Giant Oaks to terminus

Pool Permits Necessary Swimming pools deeper than two feet in the Township of Upper St. Clair require a permit, or in many cases, two permits. During the pandemic, the popularity of storable/temporary pools took off around the country. In Upper St. Clair, a building permit is required for the construction or installation of any swimming pool that can hold a depth of 24 inches or more of water. This includes permanent in-ground, above-ground, and storable/temporary pools. Any pool that contains a filter system, heater, or electrical lighting requires a second, electrical permit. In order to prevent children from gaining uncontrolled access to the pool, a barrier must be constructed. The height of the barrier or fence must be at least 48 inches above grade. A successful pool barrier prevents children from getting over, under, or through it. n For more information, visit twpusc.org/buildingpermits.

Traffic Alert Notice for USC Drivers PennDOT resumed construction at the intersection of Boyce and Mayview roads in South Fayette in March of this year, which will impact drivers who use this road. The work includes flood prevention measures, the replacement of a culvert, and the addition of turn lanes. The project is scheduled to be completed this November. n

Road closure at Boyce and Mayview roads

Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

RECYCLE RIGHT in RECYCLE RIGHT Upper St. Clair RIGHT ! W YCLE RIGHT NE

ING CONTAINER

ps &

ALWAYS RECYCLE

NO Loose Plastic Bags, Bagged Recyclables or Film ALWAYS RECYCLE

NO Glass Bottles & Containers

Empty recyclables directly into your bin.

CLE

ste

Plastic Bottles, Jars, Jugs and Tubs (#1 & #2)

Food & Beverage Cans

Plastic Bottles, NO Batteries – checkJars, local programs for proper disposal Jugs, & Tubs (#1 &&#2) Jugs and Tubs (#1 #2)

Food & Beverage Cans

Steel, tin & aluminum soda, vegetable, fruit & tuna cans Steel, tin & aluminum soda, vegetable, fruit & tuna cans

WM Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC. The Recycle Right recycling education program Food & Beverage Cans © 2020 was developed based upon national best practices. Please consult your local municipality for

Steel, tin & aluminum soda, vegetable, fruit & tuna cans

their acceptable materials and additional details of local programs, which may differ slightly.

Paper

Flattened Cardboard &

Brown paper bags, non confidential Food &magazines Beverage Cans Paperboard Jars, office paper, newspaper, Steel, tin & aluminum soda, (#1 & #2) Paper vegetable, fruit & tuna cans Flattened Cardboard & Brown paper bags, non confidential Paperboard DO NOT INCLUDE IN YOUR MIXED RECYCLING CONTAINER office paper, newspaper, magazines

DO NOT INCLUDE IN YOUR MIXED RECYCLING CONTAINER Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard

Foam Cups & NO Food or Liquids FlattenedNO Cardboard & Containers non confidential Paperboard aper, magazines NO Foam Cups & NO Food or Liquids Containers

NO Loose Plastic Bags, Bagged Recyclables or Film NO Loose Plastic Bags, Empty recyclables directly into your bin. Bagged Recyclables or Film

Waste Management, USC’s contracted garbage and recycling collection company, now accepts plastic tubs in curbside recycling bins. Acceptable plastic tubs (#1 & #2) have snap-on lids (examples include yogurt, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and butter tubs). Lids must be thrown away and containers must be rinsed and free of food debris.

E-Cycling 2022

NO Glass Bottles & C&RC parking lot, Containers 1551 Mayview Road NO Glass Bottles & Dates: Saturdays (monthly on the Containers following dates): 5/14, 6/11, 7/9, N YOUR MIXED RECYCLING CONTAINER 8/13, 9/10, 10/8, 11/12, 12/10 Empty recyclables directly into your bin. Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Items accepted for electronics NO Loose Plastic Bags, ps & NO Glass Bottles & recycling: any electronic item with Bagged Recyclables or Containers a cord, including large electric apFilm pliances. One television per vehicle Empty recyclables directly into your bin. per collection accepted. A charge NO Loose Plastic Bags, NO Foam CupsFurniture & NO Clothing, NO Batteries check local NO Glass–Bottles & NO Green Waste for appliances containing refrigerBagged Recyclables or & Carpet programs for proper disposal Containers Containers Film ant applies. NO Clothing, Furniture EmptyNO NO Batteries – check local Not allowed are personal items: Greendirectly Waste recyclables into your bin. Carpet more, visit: programs for proper disposal To&learn curling irons, shavers, vacuum © 2020 WM Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC. The Recycle Right recycling education program cleaners, carpet scrubbers, smoke was developed based upon national best practices. Please consult your local municipality for their acceptable materials and additional details of local programs, which may differ slightly. detectors, batteries. These items To learn more, visit: should be LLC. recycled elsewhere or © 2020 WM Intellectual Property Holdings, The Recycle Right recycling education program was developed based upon national best practices. Please consult your local municipality for NO Batteries – check local ste placed in your weekly rubbish bin. their acceptable materials and additional details of local programs, which may differ slightly. programs for proper disposal

ING CONTAINER

ure

wm.com/recycleright wm.com/recycleright 38

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

NO Batteries – check local

2022 USC Trash and Curbside Recycling Calendar for the second half of the year

July T W T

F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 S

October M T W T F

S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Designated Trash Day — Red Bold Numbers Designated Recycle Day — Red Bold / Yellow Highlighted

August T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 30 31

September S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

November S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

December S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

M 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

Permanent Glass Recycling Site Opens in the South Hills

PERMANENT GLASS RECYCLING BIN

VILLAGE SQUARE MALL

This past March, it got a lot easier to recycle glass. A

permanent glass recycling site is placed in the parking lot of Village Square Mall. Residents can access the blue bin seven days a week, any time of day. All colors of glass bottles, jugs, and jars are accepted; no sorting necessary. Michael Brothers picks up the glass and hauls it to CAP Glass in Mt. Pleasant, where it is prepared for use by regional glass product manufacturers. “A bottle, jug, or jar dropped in the bin today could be recycled and back on a store shelf in less than 30 days,” said PRC deputy director Sarah Alessio Shea. “Glass remains one of the most recyclable materials we generate in our homes, and the market for glass recycling is very strong. It’s important from an environmental perspective to keep glass out of landfills.” n

parking lot of Fine Wine & Good Spirits 5000 Oxford Drive, Bethel Park, PA 15102

SELF-SERVE DROP OFF Location under video surveillance PERMANENT BIN PRESENTED BY

TYPES OF GLASS ACCEPTED

Borough of Dormont

All colors of glass bottles, jars and jugs ONLY

Municipality of Bethel Park

• Caps, lids and labels are acceptable • Empty all containers

Municipality of Mt. Lebanon

NOT ACCEPTED: cut glass, glass bakeware, light bulbs, mirrors, porcelain and ceramics, stemware, TVs, all other materials including recyclables

Township of Upper St. Clair

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Pennsylvania Resources Council ***

CAP Glass ***

Michael Brothers Hauling & Recycling ***

Oxford THIS PROJECT IS PARTIALLY FUNDED BY A PA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION RECYCLING GRANT

Ribbon cutting ceremony at the Village Square Mall glass recycling site

prc.org/glass • 412-488-7490 Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

From the Director’s Desk

Christian Gmiter, Library Director Greetings to you… residents, patrons, supporters, and library users. By the time you are reading this, summer will be just about beginning. I hope that you all enjoy the coming season! Speaking of summer, allow me to mention the summer reading program that takes place at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. This reading program is an incentive-based yearly staple that has provided kids with educational and literacy-related curriculum over the non-school months to keep their reading skills honed. But, the program does not stop with kids! The library also features summer reading programs for teens and adults, and the theme for all age groups this year is “Oceans of Possibilities.” You’ll find more information about the summer reading programs (including signup links) in our kids library feature section on page 43. If you haven’t yet checked out the library’s renovation progress, stop by and see how the building is changing. As a staff, we look forward to providing service to our users and residents in a modernized, state-of-the-art library with a one-floor service model. The duration of the year will prove to be very interesting and transformative for the library and the municipal building as we improve our look and ease of use. Retirement News Library employee and head of children’s and youth services Deb Conn retired this past February, after more than 28 years of exemplary and outstanding service. Deb began her career at the Whitehall Library before arriving at Upper St. Clair in 1993. Ever since, Deb has been responsible for shaping the educational and recreational literary pursuits for youth and families in this community. Thank you, Deb, for your many years of service, and for everything that you have meant to this library. Congratulations to you! Congratulations also goes out to another library staff member, Colleen Miles. Colleen has taken over Deb’s former library role. Colleen began her career at the library in 2002, and had been serving as the youth services librarian since 2004 before beginning her new role as head of children’s and youth services. Welcome to your new role, Colleen! Left to right: Deb Conn, Colleen Miles Until next time, Chris

USC Township Library Hours Mondays: Tuesdays: Wednesdays: Thursdays: Fridays: Saturdays:

10 a.m.–7 p.m. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

The library will be closed for the following holidays: Monday, May 30 for Memorial Day and Monday, July 4 for the Fourth of July. Outside book and video return available 24/7. Building construction taking place during summer 2022 may occasionally interrupt library hours, programs, and/or services. Check the library website or Facebook page (facebook.com/UpperStClairLibrary) for an up-to-date list of changes that may occur.

412-835-5540 twpusc.org/library 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Adult Programs Presentations at the Library Court Basics Wednesday, June 1, 6–7 p.m. This course illustrates the organization and procedures of the Pennsylvania judicial system, with the goal of bringing Pennsylvanians a fuller awareness of and confidence in our courts. Discussed will be subject matters of each court, knowing your way around the courtroom, how judges are selected, and how to be a more knowledgeable citizen.

a short introduction to the orchid family (Orchidaceae), and discusses where orchids are found and mentions the wide diversity of the orchid family. The second portion is a short discussion on “What is an orchid?” and covers the characteristics that distinguish an orchid from other flowering plants. The third, and more comprehensive, part covers cultural suggestions for Phalaenopsis orchids. This more expansive discussion delves into the importance of knowing the particular type of orchid, since many have different watering, light, and repotting requirements. The fourth and last portion will be a repotting demonstration of a Phalaenopsis-type orchid.

Sea Turtles, Save Turtles Tuesday, July 26, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Second Chance program is helping sea turtles in a big way. Join in to learn about some of the challenges sea turtles face, and why it’s important to work towards saving them. Whether you’re on an ocean beach or miles away, you can do your part to help these beautiful creatures. If we all pitch in, imagine the oceans of possibilities!

Try-It Tuesday Dates: June 14, July 12, August 9 Time: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Join fiber artist and teacher Judé Ernest for Try-It Tuesday. Each month on a Tuesday, participants will learn a new craft. Suitable and doable for adult crafters, program supplies and tools are provided. Registration required.

Amorphophallus: The Corpse Flowers Interventional Pain Management Wednesday, June 29, 6–7 p.m. Medical interventions can help to manage pain. Learn about them in this informative presentation.

The Heinz History Center Presents Destination Moon: The Pittsburgh Story Wednesday, June 15, 6–7 p.m. Learn how people and companies from western Pennsylvania helped make the dream of space travel a reality.

Orchids 101 Wednesday, June 22, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. This presentation is a truncated version of a two-hour presentation often presented for Phipps Conservatory. It opens with

Landlord-Tenant Court Wednesday, July 6, 6–7 p.m. Going to court can be an overwhelming experience both for landlords and tenants. This presentation will help build knowledge and confidence by guiding you through the process. In addition, this presentation outlines the various duties and obligations expected of both landlords and tenants, and how to seek recourse when these obligations are not met. It will cover how a case gets to court, courtroom etiquette, what happens in the courtroom, and the physical setup of the court. Summer 2022

Wednesday, August 17, 6–7 p.m. This presentation begins with a short introduction to the Aroid family (Araceae), including common uses for some of these plants as food sources. An introduction to the genus Amorphophallus is provided, and the morphology of tuber, plant, and flower is discussed. Most of the presentation is a survey of species, and, yes, some hybrids. Species range from six-inch-tall miniatures with pleasantly fragrant flowers to the eight to 12-inch tall Corpse flower monsters Am. gigas and Am. titanum that smell awful. Am. titanum (The Titan Arum), being the most publicly famous species in the genus, is commonly recognized as being a warmgrowing tropical plant. However, there are many temperate and sub-temperate species. At least one species, Am. konjak, is garden hardy in our region’s USDA zone 6a gardens. The third, and last, portion of the presentation discusses culture, and covers pot and garden culture, as well as watering, f e r t i l i z e r, light requirements, and repotting.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Kids Programs Kids and Teens Library Happenings Weekly classes for kids of all ages

Story Time for 2-Year-Olds with Miss Sheri Join Miss Sheri for some happy rhymes and songs and a picture book story. It’s a great way for kids to have fun and interact with a caring adult. Caregivers must attend with their child. Story Time for 3-Year-Olds with Miss Sheri Join Miss Sheri for fun stories and activities for three-year-olds. Each class will end with an art activity. Caregivers must attend with their child. Story Time for 4- and 5-Year-Olds with Miss Laurie Each week, Miss Laurie will read great stories and use interactive activities to explore subjects and ideas that young children find fun and interesting. Caregivers must help their child with the enrichment activity at the end of the class. Math Mites for 4- and 5-Year-Olds with Miss Pamela Your four- and five-year-old can have fun learning early math concepts through books and activities. Caregivers must help their child with the enrichment activities. Sensory-Friendly Story Time with Miss Colleen This class includes rhymes, songs, and a story that is read together. Each program ends with a “play time” that features sensory activities for caregivers and children to explore together.

Let’s Get Ready for Kindergarten with Miss Laurie During each session, Miss Laurie will present Kindergarten readiness topics, using a variety of activities. This class is for children who are going into Kindergarten in fall 2022. Caregivers must help their child with enrichment activities. Listen, Learn, and Create with Miss Colleen Miss Colleen shares fun stories, games, and activities. This program is for children going into first through fifth grades. Artistic “Crafternoons” with Miss Laurie Kids going into first through fifth grades will try out fun hands-on art activities. Ocean Explorers with Miss Colleen This summer, explore the great blue oceans with Miss Colleen through stories, games, and activities. This program is for children going into first through fifth grades. Paws for Reading Paws for Reading promotes reading and communication skills. Kids will have the opportunity to read to registered therapy dogs and their handlers. Each child gets special time with one of these furry friends. This program is for children going into second through fifth grades. Tween and Teen Craft Time Try out a new craft or art concept with Miss Colleen. This program is for tweens and teens going into sixth through 12th grades. Tween and Teen Cooking Demonstrations Join Miss Colleen in her kitchen and learn how to make fun foods! This program is for tweens and teens going into sixth through 12th grades. Tween and Teen Game Night Meet up with friends to play fun games like trivia, giant board games, and more! This program is for tweens and teens going into sixth through 12th grades.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Visit twpusc.libcal.com for a complete schedule and to register! Class schedule is subject to change based on staff and space availability.

Library Outdoor Activities at USC’s Municipal Park Story Strolls, June 13–August 14 Stop by the Township’s Municipal Park, across the parking lot from the library, to go on a story stroll that features favorite tales about the ocean. Stories change weekly each Monday. Scavenger Hunts, Mondays, June 13–August 8 Younger, eagle-eyed children can visit Municipal Park, across the parking lot from the library, this summer to try their luck spotting hidden pictures. Find them all to pick out a special prize offered by the kids library. Code Crackers, Wednesdays, June 15–August 10 School-aged sleuths can visit Municipal Park, across the parking lot from the library, this summer to try their luck decoding a variety of encrypted clues. Solve all of the clues to pick out a special prize offered by the kids library.

Summer Reading and Activity Challenges

VolunTEENS

Information for rising sixth through 12th graders

Students who participate in the Summer Teen Read or Summer Teen Activity Challenge (see information on this page) are invited to join the student volunteer corps at Wednesday, June 1– Upper St. Clair Township Library. In-person and virtual volunteer opportunities are availThursday, August 11 able all summer. Students who either read at least five books for the Summer Teen Read program or who complete all the Summer Teen Activity Challenges will be eligible to continue their in-person volunteer service throughout the upcoming 2022–23 school year. Please note that: 2022 Summer Reading • The library cannot guarantee hours. Programs—Kids and Teens • Only students who are going into sixth through 12th grades are eligible. Oceans of Possibilities • Virtual volunteer opportunities are available regardless of completion of Summer Join one of the library’s two annual sumTeen Read/Teen Activity Challenge. mer reading programs—Kids Summer A student who fails to complete the reading program or challenges will forfeit his or her volunteer Reading or Teens Summer Reading—this hours, and these hours will not be reported to his or her school. year titled “Oceans of Possibilities.” Keep track of the books you read or that have been read to you, using Beanstack, an online reading tracker sponsored by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. A prize drawing will be held using Beanstack, and everyone who reads will be eligible to win!

for kids and teens

Visit twpusc.org/librarykids or twpusc.org/ libraryteens for more information.

2022 Activity Challenge— Kids and Teens Download or pick up this year’s Activity Challenge sheet. On it, you’ll find a variety of tasks to complete. Everyone who completes the sheet will be entered to win a special prize. Sheets can be found online at the kids library website (twpusc.org/ librarykids) or the teen library website (twpusc.org/libraryteens). You can also pick up a sheet in person at the kids library circulation desk.

Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Personal. What are you striving for today?

Best. Jeffrey C. Liu, M.D.

stclair.org 44

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Expert care from people who care. Summer 2022

PINEBRIDGE COMMONS Pinebridge Commons

“Quality Dentistry with a Gentle Touch & the Personalized Service that YOU Deserve!”

••••••••••••••••• All American Bistro

Pediatric Alliance

Cardinal Endocrinology

Pediatric Dentistry South

Design Image Salon

Pediatric Therapy Source

Emerick Financial Planning

Questa Petroleum Co.

Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc.

Gloria Sayut, MS LPC, NCC

Estetyka

Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins.

Peter Gialames & Associates Interior Designs/Furnishings by Mary Kay Chaffee

Suburban Dry Cleaners Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent. Troy Orthodontics Beth Troy, DMD

Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

Whole Plants Health, LLC

Larry E. Manalo, DMD

Xcoal Energy Resources

Melissa D. Michel, LPC

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Welcome

Gallagher Wealth Management

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••

McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road www.pinebridgecommons.com Leasing Opportunity – Avison Young (412) 944-2138

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

FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

412-343-4100

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

Let us make you smile!

Schedule your complimentary consultation today! • Orthodontic services for children and adults • Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment 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

Pinebridge Commons location: 1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-0392 Bethel Park location: 2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-831-2188

Summer 2022

• Convenient appointment hours • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted

www.drtroysmiles.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SUMMER... Ahhh

ES ALL SMIL & DANCING A TIME FORL MAGICA ! SUMMER

Riley Moorhead Upper St. Clair, Freshman

412-257-2000 www.thomasdance.com

111 washington avenue bridgeville, pa 15017

Organizing Outdoor Family Time

Haley Roberts, Administrative Coordinator, Extended Day Services observers of nature. Seemingly endless forms of digital entertainment— from video games to streaming services—compete for our 5. Ride bikes along a trail. For some outdoor aerobic activity, take a family bike ride on a local trail. As you go, stop and look children’s attention (and adults, too!). Unfortunately, these at the many things growing around and along the bike path. technologies entice us to spend our free time in the living room For train enthusiasts, try the Montour Trail. Once a railroad instead of outside on a sunny, summer day. To encourage both track, there are several spots along this trail where you can see the adults and kids in your house to get out and reconnect with artifacts of its prior use. nature, try some of these fun family-friendly activities. 1. Try wildlife photography. There are so many ways to engage 6. Complete an outdoor scavenger hunt. Create a list of commonly seen (and not-so-commonly seen) nature items, kids of all ages with photography. Ask your younger kids to including various types of bugs, flowers, and animals. Let your take pictures of critters, plants, and pretty flowers to sharpen kids loose in a park or trail area and have them work together their awareness of nature. Have pre-teens and teens try their to find all the items on your list. To sweeten the deal, treat them hand at macrophotography to capture nature shots and bugs to ice cream or a popsicle when they complete the list. close up with a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. 2. Create a nature self-portrait. Cut oval shapes out of old 7. Pick berries. There are several local farms where you can pick your own berries. Not only is this activity fun and delicious, it cardboard boxes, and encourage children to collect items from also allows kids to learn about and connect with the process of your backyard—twigs, blades of grass, leaves—to arrange on the cardboard to make their own face or someone else’s face. getting food from the ground to a grocery store and eventually This activity not only gets them outside, but also activates their to the dinner table. creativity. 8. Organize a sunrise or sunset picnic. Watching the sun rise 3. Climb trees. There’s no better way to experience nature than or set is a beautiful way to relax and connect with nature. Pack to literally touch it! Find some easy-to-climb trees in a park some fun snacks (or a whole meal) and a big blanket to be or in your backyard. For some high-quality imaginative play, witness to nature’s beautiful colors! Then, hangout afterwards pretend you’re a pirate on a boat overlooking the ocean or a and play frisbee or catch fireflies. n bird on the look-out for prey! Check out the list of Upper St. Clair parks on page 32 to learn where 4. Play the Crayola game. While on a nature hike or walk, make you can enjoy some outdoor family time within our USC community. up crayon names for unusual colors you see along the way. See ad for Extended Day Services on this page. Shout them out and be silly! This game encourages kids to be 46

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

SUMMER... Ahhh

Summer is a Time for Music Becki Lewis, Owner, Lewis Music Studio

Summer is a time for sun, fun, trips, camps, and more! With school music programs on break, why should you sign your child up for lessons over the summer? Because, those sunny months are a fabulous time to work on the skills learned during the schoolyear, as well as adding some fun to the mix! Here are four reasons to study music in the summer: 1. Extra time to devote to music. When school is out, homework isn’t a pressing responsibility. Since school sports and other school activities are generally on pause, as well, music doesn’t have to fit into such a tight schedule. Having a bit of extra time allows for more opportunities to practice and develop new skills. This is also a great time to start listening to new styles of music and develop your own music appreciation. 2. Summer music study is lower pressure. During the school year, students are often prepping for recitals, concerts, festivals, evaluations, and auditions. In the summer, these things tend to lighten up, and the pressure is off. Want to try a new style of music or get through that level 2 method book? Feel free to set whatever goals interest you the most. 3. Keep those skills fresh. It’s no secret, music is an investment. It takes money and it takes a time commitment, as well. Just like reading and math skills can slip over the summer, music skills can also lapse if they’re not used. Taking lessons over the summer months helps to reinforce current mastered skills and builds upon the investments made during other months of the year. 4. Give your brain a boost. Science tells us that music has multiple benefits for the brain. Structured lessons help develop new neural pathways that can, in turn, improve memory, language and reasoning skills, and more. The benefits apply to infants, children, adolescents, and adults, as well. So, no matter your age, music has brain benefits! This year, make music a part of your summer for yourself and your family. While the days are longer and the pressure is less, it’s a fantastic time to focus on music. Whether it’s learning a new instrument, taking a music appreciation class, or taking lessons on your current instrument, reap the benefits of music this summer! n See ad for Lewis Music Studio on this page. —Resource: https://nafme.org/important-benefits-of-music-in-our-schools/

FREE LESSON Piano▪Guitar▪Bass Guitar▪Ukulele Voice▪Violin▪Viola▪Cello▪String Bass▪Drums▪Flute▪Piccolo Clarinet▪Saxophone▪Trombone Trumpet▪Euphonium▪Baritone Tuba▪French Horn▪Banjo▪Music Technology

Lewis Music Studio is South Fayette's own school of music! We enjoy making music with students of all ages! Visit our website for details about classes, lessons, summer camps, instrument rentals, and more!

50 ABELE ROAD, SUITE 1001, BRIDGEVILLE, PA 15017 HTTP://LEWISMUSICSTUDIO.NET

Mt. Lebanon RecReation centeR ATTENTION UPPER ST. CLAIR RESIDENTS SKATE & SWIM at the MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER Open Year Round with Something for Everyone

Join us this summer! Ballet camps for children of all ages and levels—as low as $40!

Learn-to-Skate Classes/ Hockey Clinics Hockey Leagues Public Skating Summer Skating School Exercise Programs Broomball Birthday Parties Individual & Family Season Swim Passes Available Pool Open Noon – 7 P.M. Daily beginning June 3, 2022

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

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh 4100 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-343-9333

www.balletacademypgh.com info@balletacademypgh.com Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

SUMMER... Ahhh Is Your Teen Driving This Summer?

They should know what to do if they get into an auto accident A driver’s first accident can be traumatic, and if the driver is a teen, it can be stressful for the parents, as well. Knowledge of the dos and don’ts of accidents can help ease that stress and mitigate problems that might arise afterward. Although every accident is unique, you can prepare your teen to know what to do after an accident, should one occur. Before your teen gets on the road: Before your teen heads out, there are several steps they can take to be prepared: • Download and set up an insurance mobile app (if available) where the teen has access to a digital copy of your auto insurance card and agent contact information. • Make sure the physical insurance card and auto registration are in the vehicle at all times. • Know how to use your mobile phone’s camera to document any post-accident damage.

After-accident actions a teen should take: If your teen is in an accident, the first step is to ask “Is anybody hurt?” If someone is injured, contact 911 emergency services for help immediately. The next step is to make sure that your teen remains safe. That means getting out of the way of traffic if it can be done safely. • If the vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe spot on the shoulder of the road or otherwise out of the way of traffic. • Turn on hazard lights and set up emergency cones, if available. • Get out of the vehicle, unless it is unsafe to do so. • If the vehicle is not safe to drive, contact roadside assistance to arrange a tow. Once in a safe location, your teen should call the police no matter how bad the accident was. For minor accidents, your teen may need to file a police report on his or her own, which your help and guidance will likely be needed. Even if an accident happens on private property, contact the

Consistent award winning Chinese cuisine year after year!

police to report the incident. Depending on the severity of the accident, the police may or may not come out to make a report. It’s always in everyone’s best interest to contact the police. Now that the police have been notified and your teen is in a safe spot, it’s the right time for them to call you. After that, they should record all the details of the accident. • Alert the insurance company and/or agent about the accident. This will begin the claims process. • Share information, including contact and insurance details, with anyone else involved in the accident. • Ask other drivers to share their details with you. This information will be needed once fault and financial responsibility are established. Make sure your teen knows to list on record if they are the car’s owner. • Have your teen take notes about what he or she remembers about the accident, and take photos with a phone. • Your teen should ask for and keep a copy of the police report. What your teen should never do after an accident: • Don’t assign blame. • Don’t sign anything from anyone other than the police. • Don’t leave the scene of the accident. After your teen reports an accident: Available coverage and determination of fault will help outline how repairs and other costs, including medical bills, are paid for. After the claims process is completed, you may find that your teen’s insurance rate is adjusted at renewal. Whether your teen’s insurance rates rise after the accident may depend on the circumstances surrounding the accident. If a teen fails to follow the appropriate steps after an accident, it could affect his coverage and premiums. Careful documentation of an accident will help teens avoid being found “at fault” for an accident they did not cause. In addition, if they leave the scene of an accident, they may face additional fines, which will negatively impact their premium rates. Being smart and prepared can minimize additional damage as a result of an accident. n Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on page 49.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

SUMMER... Ahhh

YOGA AND BARRE

Free Week of Classes

Applies to any yoga or barre class. New customers only. Restrictions apply.

MindBody Yoga + Barre is the area’s newest health and fitness studio in the South Hills. Located in the Mayview Road Hastings housing development, it is owned and operated by Upper St. Clair resident Carla Higgins. The brand-new, eco-friendly studio offers yoga and barre classes, and focuses on helping you create the best version of yourself. Maybe you’ve been practicing yoga for years and are looking for a new challenge, or you’ve never before set foot in a yoga studio and are unsure of where to start. Be assured… there’s a class for you! There are also classes for kids and teenagers. Need nutritional consulting? As a registered dietitian and certified health coach, Carla is happy to speak with you. Practice movement and mindfulness by attending a class at MindBody Yoga + Barre. Breath. Balance. Be. n See ad for MindBody Yoga + Barre on this page. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Phillip J. Elias President pelias@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023*

Dr. Daphna Gans Vice President dgans@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025*

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

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

Secretary/Email Address

Extension

Dr. John Rozzo...........................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Superintendent of Schools smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky...................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant/Deputy Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Amy Pfender...............................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant 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 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

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Michael R. Mascaro lmafrice@uscsd.k12.pa.us mmascaro@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2025* 2023* Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Angela B. Petersen Jennifer A. Schnore apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us jschnore@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2023* 2025*

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

The list of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Director 2022 meeting dates is available on the District’s website: uscsd.k12.pa.us/schoolboard. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. in the District administration building.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices

The required annual notices to parents of children who reside in the Upper St. Clair School District are available online. Visit the District website at uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information. 50

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Amy Pfender Assistant Superintendent

Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance

Ray Carson, Jr. Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services

Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell Director of Special Education

Dr. Lauren Madia Director of Pupil Services

Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives

School District Building Administration

Dr. Timothy Wagner High School Principal Dr. Daniel Beck High School Assistant Principal Cara Senger High School Assistant Principal

Summer 2022

Joseph DeMar Fort Couch Middle School Principal Erin Peterson 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

School Board News Incoming Director

The Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors

approved the appointment of Kelly Hanna to the board on February 28, 2022. She will serve the remaining two years of the four-year term vacated by Patrick Hewitt, which expires in December 2023. Kelly, an Upper St. Clair resident for 28 years, is the public relations officer at Wilkinsburg School District, where she provides marketing and public relations services for that district. In addition, she serves as president and owner of Field of Play Marketing, a fullservice marketing and public relations firm that helps Kelly Hanna brand school districts, former professional athletes, C-level executives, and organizations. Kelly values community service. An active member of the school community, she helped pilot the Odyssey of the Mind program within the District, managing it for three years. She has taken on leadership roles, including president of Pittsburgh Women in Sports and Events (WISE) and past president of the Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce. She is also a champion for Pittsburgh’s Elevated and Emerging Leaders (PEEL). Kelly holds an international business degree from The Ohio State University. She and her husband, Gilbert, have two adult daughters, Amelia and Alexi, both who are USCHS graduates.

USC Receives Safety Grants Upper St. Clair School District was awarded two 2021–22 Safe Schools targeted grants totaling $43,960 from the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Office for Safe Schools. The District received an equipment grant of $24,720 to purchase ten laptops for its school police officers. “This will replace and upgrade the current computers for our officers, providing increased functionality with the District’s camera and electronic access systems,” said Sean Bryson, USC’s chief of school police. “The new equipment will greatly enhance the work of our officers.” In addition to the equipment grant, a program grant in the amount of $19,240 will be used to implement an Active Bystander Train-the-Trainer program, as well as cover associated costs to train other members of the school community. The program is intended to empower bystanders to help provide care during an emergency situation until professional help arrives. “This program is the first step in training a cross section of our school community on a voluntary basis to provide interim crisis care in an emergency,” said Chief Bryson. “Providing basic training for what to do until first responders arrive can make a significant difference in the outcome during a medical crisis.” A total of $8 million in Safe School targeted grants were awarded to 303 local education agencies to help make schools safer throughout Pennsylvania. More than $40 million in Safe Schools targeted grants have been given out across the state since 2015. n

Thanks to Pat Hewitt Earlier this year, Patrick Hewitt resigned from the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors. Pat was first elected to the school board in 2015 and served six years that included one term as vice-president in 2020 and one Patrick Hewitt term as president in 2021. Thank you, Pat, for your service to our community! n

Upper St. Clair School District Calendar 2022–2023 Aug 24

Grades 1–12 First Day of School

Aug 26

Kindergarten First Day of School

Sep 5

No School–Labor Day

Oct 31

No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 7–8

No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 23–25

No School–Thanksgiving Recess

Dec 23–31

No School–Winter Recess

Jan 2

No School–Winter Recess

Jan 16

No School–Teacher In-service

Jan 23

No School–Teacher In-service

Feb 17

No School–Teacher In-service

Feb 20

No School–Teacher In-service

Mar 31

No School–Teacher In-service

Apr 3–7

No School–Spring Recess

May 29

No School–Memorial Day

Jun 8

High School Commencement

Jun 9 Last Day of School for Students–Half Day/ Early Dismissal Jun 12 Summer 2022

Teacher In-service UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Boyce Celebrates Kindness The students and staff at Boyce Middle School celebrated Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Week February 14–18. Led by school counselors Amy Antonio and Tonia Autieri, the week highlighted the extraordinary power of simple human kindness. “We have celebrated RAK Week at Boyce for the past 20 years,” said Amy. “Each year, we make changes to our programming and theme to fit the current students’ needs and interests.” This year’s theme was “Be the ‘I’ in Kind!” A large wall display encouraged students to celebrate their own acts of kindness. Students could sign their name on sticky notes that recognized the numerous ways they make their school and the world around them more awesome. Examples included “pick-up trash in the hallway,” “call a relative to say hello,” “say thank you to your bus driver,” and “help your parents with dinner.” Various theme days included: Monday: Valentine’s Day. Show some heart and wear red! Tuesday: Kindness makes the world go ’round! Wear gear from your favorite vacation spot! Wednesday: Kindness makes a difference! Students, dress like your teachers. Teachers, dress like your students. Thursday: There is no “I” in team, but there is an “I” in kind! Wear your favorite team jersey! Friday: We dream of a world filled with kindness. There is no school today, so wear your PJs all day! “The students love dressing up for theme days! They will ask me, ‘What does dressing in my favorite vacation gear have to do with kindness?’ ‘Nothing!’ I tell them. It’s just a reminder for you that it’s RAK Week,” said Amy. “So, when they tell their parents they have to wear a suit or dress for ‘make a difference day,’ and the parents ask ‘Why?’ they tell them that it’s RAK Week. They have fun getting their pictures taken, too. It certainly adds to the spirit of the week.” Upper St. Clair High School student mentors visited Boyce classrooms on February 17. “The high school students led a kindness activity,” said Tonia. “Hearing the importance of kindness from a ‘cool high school student’ is incredibly impactful to our middle school students.” RAK Week also included two successful community service projects. Students collected hundreds of boxes of cereal to benefit the South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) and more than $2000 was raised to support the Education Partnership through Valentine Grams. “Throughout the year, we recognize kids for positive behaviors by awarding them a Boyce Pride award or through our Panther Program,” said Amy. “But RAK Week drives home the importance of a simple act of kindness, and that kindness inspires kindness. Most importantly, we want them to realize that one person, even if they’re only in fifth or sixth grade, can make a difference.” n

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is a nonprofit that invests its resources into making kindness the norm. The RAK Foundation is rooted in the belief that all people can connect through kindness, and that kindness can be taught. Learn more by visiting randomactsofkindness.org. 52

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Boyce teachers support RAK Week

Students, dressing up like their teachers

Dressing in red for Valentine’s Day

Team jersey day

Teachers Named Promising Practitioners Three Upper St. Clair middle school teachers were honored with the Promising Practitioners award from the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education (PAMLE). Bridget Kaufman, Boyce sixth grade English language arts teacher, Erin Kyle, Boyce fifth-grade science teacher, and Paige Steinhaus, Fort Couch eighth grade English language arts teacher, were recognized during the 2022 PAMLE state conference, held in State College this past February.

Bridget Kaufman

Erin Kyle

Paige Steinhaus

According to PAMLE’s website, Promising Practitioners awards are “presented to teachers who are just beginning their middle school careers. These beginning teachers have made a positive impact on both their school and community. They incorporate effective middle level practices in their everyday teaching.” Bridget and Erin were nominated for the award by Dr. Dan O’Rourke and Dr. Christine Mussomeli, Boyce Middle School principal and assistant principal, respectively. Paige was nominated by Erin Peterson, Fort Couch Middle School assistant principal. Bridget earned her undergraduate degree in middle grade education from Saint Vincent College and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Gannon University. She taught in Virginia for three years prior to joining the Boyce faculty in 2021. “I enjoy working with middle schoolers because of the energy they bring each day,” said Bridget. “They are excited and ready to learn, especially about things that spark their interest. I enjoy helping students apply ELA (English language arts) skills to what they are passionate about.” Erin holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Pennsylvania State University. A 2012 USCHS graduate, she is in her fifth year of teaching—three years at the elementary level and two at Boyce Middle School. “I love teaching fifth grade and being a part of the students’ first year in middle school,” said Erin. “Middle school is an interesting time for students, as they are growing, both physically and mentally. Understanding this, I strive to make each day a positive experience for my students by building their confidence and guiding them to be their best selves. I am fortunate to teach where I went to school and to work with educators who made my first years of teaching middle school very meaningful.” A graduate of Duquesne University, Paige completed her undergraduate work in middle level education with a concentration in English and a minor in psychology. She went on to complete her graduate work in reading and literacy education. “Seeing students grow as learners and young adults is a very rewarding experience. I am grateful to play even a small part in their development,” said Paige. “Fort Couch is a great place to work, and I am fortunate to work with such amazing colleagues who’ve helped me become the teacher I am today.” Past Upper St. Clair teacher honorees include Tonia Autieri, Eliza Luxbacher, Dr. Kelly Pascarella, Amy Homer, and Morgan Olsen. Throughout the two-day conference, USC staff members—Dr. Mussomeli, current president for the West Region of PAMLE, and Dr. Pascarella—led workshops and training sessions. USC teachers also led programs during the 2022 Virtual West Region PAMLE Professional Development Institute this past January, including Dr. Pascarella and world language teacher Maria Marchionna. n PAMLE is the leading advocate for middle level education in Pennsylvania, promoting and enhancing the role of middle level education by promoting best instructional practices for young adolescents. Summer 2022

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair High School Halls Of Fame 22ND Anniversary Mission Statement

To identify and to honor those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate, or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. A former student must meet the following criteria to be considered for any of the three Halls of Fame: the individual must

be a graduate of Upper St. Clair High School, must be away from the high school for at least five years, and must have made a positive contribution during high school as well as significant achievements after leaving USCHS. Students are nominated by members of the high school staff, an Upper St. Clair alumnus, or the Upper St. Clair community. Administrative staff, teachers, and coaches are also eligible. Each Hall of Fame committee will include representatives from the high school staff, alumni, and the community. Nominees must earn a 75% vote of a quorum of the committee. During and after high school, the student could have excelled in one or more of the following:

Arts • School and Local Awards • District and Regional Awards • • State and National Recognition • Contributions in the Field • • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Recognition • • Professional Accomplishments • • School Service and/or Leadership in Field • • Benefactor of the Arts • Contributions to Society • • Excellent Citizenship •

Academics

Athletics • High School Awards and Records • • WPIAL or PIAA Champion • Post Season Recognition • • National Recognition • Multiple Sport Consideration • • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Accomplishments • • Professional Accomplishments • • Leadership Accomplishments • • Other Hall of Fame Honors • Media Recognition • • Excellent Citizenship •

• Academic Honors • National Merit Recognition • • National Honor Society • Valedictorian • • Student of the Year • Scholarship Awards • • School Service and/or Leadership • • Post Graduate Recognition • Collegiate Recognition • • Publication of Work • Professional Accomplishments • • Contributions to Society • Excellent Citizenship •

2022 Halls of Fame Inductee Nomination To nominate a candidate for the 2022 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame (the event’s 22nd year), use the nomination form found on the Upper St. Clair School District website at uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click “Alumni” and select “Halls of Fame.” Submit your name, address, and phone number, along with your completed nomination form via email to hof@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, extension 2236.

Support Our 2022 High School Varsity Football Team Cheer on our Panthers!

Kick-offs Fridays, 7:30 p.m. at Panther Stadium for five home games October 7

USC challenges Bethel Park

September 9

USC tackles Baldwin

September 23

USC battles Peters Township

October 14

USC faces Canon Mac

October 28

USC meets South Fayette

Nominations Due June 30, 2022. Nomination forms can also be mailed to: Nancy Dunn Halls of Fame Committee Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 54

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

For additional information regarding the schedule, including special activities, call the USCHS Athletic Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2260 or 2261, or visit the District website at uscsd.k12.pa.us..

Ramandeep Kaur, DDS - Pediatric Dentist

Cupelli and Cupelli are proud to announce a new addition to our team! Dr. Kaur completed her pediatric dental training at the University of Michigan and is very excited to meet and serve our beautiful South Hills community. Schedule your little one’s next appointment today!

German Day Two USCHS teams earned third place finishes at the 22nd

annual Three Rivers German Day competition this past March at Washington & Jefferson College. Placing third in the Culture Bowl trivia competition was the team of Patrick Pinchinat, Markella Jahn, Simon Teasdale, and Rebecca Kopaz. The students are enrolled in IB German 4, taught by Jacob Reis. A team of Jacob’s IB German 5 students, including Grace Copenhaver, Sambav Saggi, Evan Barker, and Linus Friedman, placed third in the drama competition with their skit Der Besuch der Alten Dame (The Visit) by Friedrich Dürrenmatt.

Left to right: students Rebecca Kopaz, Patrick Pinchinat, Markella Jahn, Simon Teasdale, and German teacher Jacob Reis

Left to right: Jacob Reis (German teacher), and students Linus Friedman, Grace Copenhaver, Evan Barker, Sambav Saggi

In addition, German Club members Addison Haerr and Raegan Kuhn participated in the painting competition. The German Club is sponsored by German teacher Lynne Kopaz. According to the competition’s website, “Every year, around 400 students from middle and high schools in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia compete in linguistic, artistic, and performance-based competitions. Local students demonstrate their ability to speak the language, understand the culture, and have fun with a language spoken in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and all over the world as a language of business.” n Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

You Say STEM, I Say STEAM REACH National Recognition A USCHS student team was one of only 18 high school STEM teams from throughout the U.S. to earn recognition in the REACH Challenge. Receiving special recognition was the team of Priyasha Itani, Aditri Thakur, Anisha Patel, Ansh Goyal, Danny Shanholtzer, Priyanka Palayekar, and Susan Liu. The students worked collaboratively to solve the design challenge Shoe Support to assist individuals with putting on a shoe when faced with limited foot mobility. To better understand the issue, the team enlisted the expertise of REACH Challenge team member and classmate Danny Shanholtzer, who faces physical challenges and navigates the high school using a wheelchair and forearm crutches. “Our project made it easier for our user-expert to put on his shoes. Danny can now put on his shoes with less effort and less assistance from others,” the team wrote in their technical paper. “We want to further develop our prototype to a point where Danny will be able to put on his shoes all by himself.” For its recognition, the team earned a $100 Harbor Freight gift card and an award banner. In addition to helping solve a challenge for Danny and others, the REACH Challenge was enlightening for the students. “The REACH Challenge taught us the importance of working as a team and the importance of accessibility,” they wrote. “Before this project, we saw putting on shoes as a daily, trivial task; however, after working with Danny, we realized that there is still a way to go in creating a more inclusive and effective world.” REACH Challenge, sponsored by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA), is an impactful Adaptive and Assistive Technology (AT) design-thinking project for middle school, high school, and college-level STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) programs. Teachers are provided with lesson plans and activities on empathy, usercentered design, prototyping, and more to lead their students in using their STEM skills to reach a member of their community who has a challenge to overcome. This innovative project allows teachers to help students use their STEM skills for social good, making a real-world difference in the lives of those around them. In the third year for REACH Challenge, teams created a wide variety of AT solutions, including the Power Pivot to help senior adults with mobility issues, a Thermal Kinetic Therapeutic Glove for a teen with Raynaud syndrome that causes decreased blood flow to the fingers, and The Able-Table for preschoolers with fine motor skill challenges. “I am blown away by these students’ innovations,” said Kelly Dooley, ITEEA executive director. “We are excited to honor these teams for their accomplishments.” ITEEA represents more than 35,000 secondary technology and engineering educators in the U.S. who are developers, administrators, and university personnel in the field representing all levels of education. Corporate members come from leading technology companies. With its mission—Technology and Engineering Bring STEM to Life!—ITEEA seeks to meet the professional needs and interests of members and to improve public understanding of technology, innovation, design, and engineering education and its contributions. 56

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Left to right: Priyanka Palayekar, Anisha Patel, Priyasha Itani, Susan Liu, Ansh Goyal

Priyasha works on the design challenge Shoe Support.

Real World Design Challenge Two USCHS teams were among top finishers in the Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) Pennsylvania state competition. The Panther Projects team finished second and the Engineers of Upper St. Clair team placed third. Students worked and competed in this challenge independently through the high school’s Innovation, Technology & Entrepreneurship (ITE) club. Both teams were recognized for their demonstrated ability and significant achievement in STEM. The Panther Projects included team members Scott Cheung, grade 12; Andrew Xu, grade 11; George Abdel-Messih, grade 9; Paige Kline, grade 9; and Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar, grade 9. They were selected to attend the RWDC national and international competition as a wild card, a recommendation by judges that was reviewed by the RWDC Technical Committee. No more than five teams each year are selected to compete in the wild card slots. The Engineers of Upper St. Clair included team members Nitin Chandran, grade 11; Henry Zheng, grade 11; Emily Neiberg, grade 10; Anuj Shah, grade 10; and Rohan Mehta, grade 9. “You are among the best and brightest students in the state and the nation,” said Ralph K. Coppola, EdD, founder of the RWDC. “You demonstrated innovation by experimenting with the unfamiliar, challenging familiar processes and methods, pushing the limits of current team thinking, and adapting or creating tools and processes to increase efficiencies in your design.” The RWDC is an annual competition that provides high school students the opportunity to work on real world engineering challenges in a team environment. Teams address a challenge that confronts the nation’s leading industries. Students use professional engineering software to develop their solutions and generate presentations that convincingly demonstrate the value of their solutions. The challenge provides students with opportunities to apply the lessons of the classroom to technical problems that are presented in today’s workplace.

National Merit Finalists Nine USCHS seniors— Bear Bottonari, Phoebe Chen, Sophie Chen, Alex LeKachman, Eden Ma, Molly Maher, Kaelyn Moran, Nivedha Suresh, and Daniel Wang—were named Finalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. Each Bear Bottonari Phoebe Chen Sophie Chen Alex LeKachman Eden Ma was selected on the basis of SAT scores, grades, essays, and letters of recommendation. In September 2021, these students were named Semifinalists in the competition for scoring in the top one percent of all juniors completing the PSAT in October 2020. “Our nine National Merit Finalists are accomplished scholars with unlimited potential,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal. “We are proud of Molly Maher Kaelyn Moran Nivedha Suresh Daniel Wang their achievements within and beyond the classroom, and we are excited to see what the future holds for each of them.” National Merit $2500 Scholarships, Corporate-sponsored Merit Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program Scholarships, and College-sponsored Merit Scholarships. is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Winners of Merit Scholarship awards are chosen from the Students enter the program by taking the PSAT, the National Finalist group and based on their abilities, skills, and accomMerit Scholarship Qualifying Test, during the fall of their junior plishments. A variety of information is available for selectors to year. The top one percent (nearly 16,000 students) qualify as evaluate the nominees, including the Finalist’s academic record, Semifinalists. information about the school’s curricula and grading system, two As Finalists, the USC seniors now compete for National sets of test scores, the high school official’s written recommendaMerit scholarships that will be offered and announced later this tion, information about the student’s activities and leadership, school year. The program awards three types of scholarships: and the Finalist’s own essay. n

Shaler Area STEAM Competition The USCHS team Delta V, including members Maksym Devlysh, Damodara Gummadi, Patrick Nowak, Nikita Redkin, and Evan Sarkett, finished first overall, as well as placed second in a floatation device challenge, in the 2022 STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) competition held this past March at Shaler Area High School. Thirty-three high school teams competed in the event that was sponsored by the Shaler Area Education Foundation. USCHS team Axolotls, including members Ansh Goyal, Paige Kline, Susan Liu, Priyanka Palayekar, and Anisha Patel, took third in the decoding challenge and finished 11th overall. The competition tasked teams with creating a device to launch a team-designed dart 20 feet, 40 feet, and maximum distance. In addition to the creation of the launcher and execution of the launches, teams were required to submit mathematical calculations, cost analysis, and two progress reports. Students also competed in four spontaneous STEAM-oriented challenges throughout the day. n

Delta V team members, left to right: Maksym Devlysh, Nikita Redkin, Damodara Gummadi, Evan Sarkett, Patrick Nowak Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Students Are Getting Down to Business to Better Their Community Julia Roeschenthaler, USCHS Senior, USC TODAY Intern Upper St. Clair students are well known for their Shivani Kamineni, a high school junior, gives back to her academic achievements. The District’s young people regularly community through her involvement with the Leukemia and compete in national and international competitions in a variety Lymphoma Society (LLS), specifically as a candidate for the LLS of fields, constantly innovate to improve the District as a whole, Students of the Year Program. Through her role, Shivani helped and go on to attend some of the create a fundraising team and is finest colleges in the country, in the process of planning events, However, one side of Upper connecting with companies, St. Clair that is less discussed, and raising awareness about the but is perhaps an even better struggles of LLS. representation of the dedicaShavina became involved with tion of the community’s young the society after her uncle, Prasad people, is the philanthropic Mama, died from Leukemia. She and entrepreneurial inclination recounts that her uncle was “a of countless USC high school huge inspiration” in her life, and students. I spoke with four that her family “suffered a lot of students who either run their grief due to his passing.” To help Noa Shimshi volunteers with Friendship Circle. own businesses or are actively families cope with the loss of a involved with charitable organizations, all while they balance the loved one, “LLS aims to support patients and their families dureveryday struggles of being a teenager. ing their weakest of times.” Shavina’s fundraising campaign this Henry Ginsburg, a sophomore at the high school, runs a busi- year, held February 11–April 1, was incredibly successful, and ness building custom models of customers’ homes using Legos®. raised nearly 40% of her targetted goal only ten days into the Henry’s Lego Home Building makes digital models of clients’ start of the campaign. houses, obtains the required parts, and writes the instructions Noa Shimshi, a USC sophomore, also works tirelessly to betnecessary for building the replicas. Ginsburg’s passion and skill ter her community, specifically through her involvement with for design inspired him to found his business in 2019, with his Friendship Circle. According to Friendship Circle’s website, construction of a full-scale Lego model of his own house. He went “The mission of the organization is to support children and the on to build replicas of his aunt’s house and Frank Lloyd Wright’s families of children with special needs through the inclusion of Fallingwater, later developing Henry’s Lego Home Building web- social recreational experiences, which are coordinated by teen site and design process himself. and adult volunteers.” The Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh was Henry shared that his company offers “something that is cus- established in 2006, and Shimshi has been a volunteer for nearly tom and perfectly suits” customers’ needs. Regarding his personal three years. However, even after having been involved for that motivation for starting the business, he stated, “I’ve always loved amount of time, Shimshi shares that she “still gets so excited” making things, so this business suits me well.” when she looks forward to a meeting for her cooking club, a Indeed, after glancing at a few of his creations, it is clear that special program offered by Friendship Circle. She reaffirmed that Henry has not only a knack for design, but is particularly talented she’s always had an incredibly strong connection to the program, in harnessing that passion in a manner that elevates the creativity and stated that Friendship Circle’s mission is “very special and of others, as well. inspiring.” Shimshi elaborated about a specific instance where Another USC sophomore who harnessed her passion for the one of her friends who was leaving the cooking club ran towards benefit of others is Autumn Ma. She founded her own bakery fol- her to give her a huge hug. lowing an interest from others in her products. Autumn started While conversing with Shimshi about her experiences with baking while she was in seventh grade, baking for friends and Friendship Circle, it’s clear just how incredible the organization classmates. She took her confectionary cause to the next level and its volunteers really are. Most recently, Shimshi has been after several individuals, delighted with her products, suggested working to establish a USCHS club to she do so. Autumn shared that her favorite aspect of running connect Friendship Circle to the school. her bakery is “seeing customers enjoy what they buy” and afBeyond excelling in school, these four firmed that “it makes their day and students, and many others, go above and mine, too!” Autumn specializes in a beyond every day to foster happiness variety of baked goods, ranging from and well-being in our community. After detailed cakes and cookies to creamy speaking with each of them, I can confihomemade pumpkin rolls. She occadently say that I’m inspired, hopeful, and sionally donates her baked goods to excited for the future of the Pittsburgh the Jubilee Soup Kitchen in downtown area and for the dedicated individuals Pittsburgh, uniting her entrepreneurial who work tirelessly to improve the lives A sample of Autumn of those around them. n and philanthropic spirits to further aid Henry Ginsberg runs a business Ma’s baked goods creating Lego home models. the community at large. 58

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

Fans of all ages

delighted in the Upper St. Clair High School’s Performing Arts Department performances of Seussical, the Musical this past March. Directed by Tom Hunsberger, Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza. Tony award winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff, My Favorite Year, Once on This Island, Ragtime) lovingly brought to life our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie, and a little boy with a big imagination, Jojo. The colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant, making this musical a “most loved” by the audiences. Two performing groups—the Jungle cast and the Whoville cast—captivated audiences. Photos shown are from the Whoville cast. At the end of each performance, the cast and crew were in the lobby passing the “Cat in the Hat” hat. They raised a record $3000 in donations to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. n

—Photo credit Maanasa Reddy, TODAY Intern Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Local Historical Leaders Emily Barrie, USCHS Junior, TODAY Intern Have you heard of the Woodville Plantation? What about the Oliver Miller Homestead? What if I told you that both places played crucial roles in the 18th-century Whiskey Rebellion and are located near Upper St. Clair? There is so much history right under our noses that we too often forget! Even the Gilfillan Farm, which dates back to the 19th century, is steps away from the Upper St. Clair High School, but is unknown to most of our community’s students. For instance, Shree Diora, a junior at the high school, said, “I had no idea that there’s so much history at Gilfillan. It’s crazy to see carriages and artifacts of the 1800s that sit so close to my school.” Most students, like Shree, have never experienced the living history that is all around our community. Unfortunately, there are also limited opportunities for students who have an interest in history and want to be with like-minded people. To fill this void, this year Aashna Banerjee and I co-founded the school’s Local Historical Leaders club (LHL). Since I have a passion for history, I wanted to create a space for people like me to get involved with the history in our community. The club aims to preserve local history, take field trips, and discuss current events. Dr. Steve Torquato, the high school’s social studies teacher and the club’s sponsor, is a career historian. When asked about the club, he answered, “I am so proud of the work these students have done to create a space for their peers to share their interest in history and build a community where all students are accepted, appreciated, and heard.” After kicking off the club at Freshman Rush, LHL has accomplished a lot in a short amount of time. In addition to weekly

Monday meetings, LHL planned a school-wide Veterans Day event. The club Members of LHL members, with help from the Soldier and Sailors Museum, created a special Veterans Day video that was presented to the entire school community. Additionally, the club facilitated the Veterans Day Star activity, where students and faculty members honored their veteran family members on a gold star that hung in the school’s lobby. LHL has also started “Topic Talks,” a competition that allows students to pick a historic topic of their choice and create a presentation about it. The competition has given club members the opportunity to dive into history and discuss various topics with their peers. Freshman club member Raegan Kuhn said, “I love the LHL club because I get to meet and talk with people who love history as much as I do!” As LHL prepares for the coming school year, the future looks bright. “Our future plans for LHL include taking more trips, since that was one of the club’s initial main goals,” says Aashna. “We want to live up to that goal. We hope to organize a Washington, DC trip in the near future.” In addition to more field trips, LHL members will be volunteering on Community Day at Gilfillan Farm, allowing LHL to interact with the greater Upper St. Clair community. There’s no doubt that LHL will continue making history right here at home. n

Debate Team Honored Four members of USCHS’s Speech & Debate team, as well as a team coach, were recognized by the National Speech & Debate Association’s Honor Society. Seniors Scott Cheung, Saif Durrani, Rushikesh Kulkarni and Nitish Sharma earned the degree of Outstanding Distinction and coach David Watson earned Diamond award recognition. The National Speech & Debate Association’s Honor Society recognizes middle school and high school students and coaches for participation in speech and debate activities. Members earn merit points through competition, service, and leadership activities. As members earn points, they also earn new Honor Society degrees that recognize progress, provide motivation, and offer distinction. Outstanding Distinction, the second highest degree attainable for high school students, requires students to exceed a 1000-point threshold.

Scott Cheung 60

Saif Durrani

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Scott, Saif, Rushikesh, and Nitish were named NSDA Academic All-Americans last March. Their achievements expand beyond their speech and debate skills, as all four students were also recognized as AP Scholars and earned commended honors from the National Merit Scholarship program this past fall. In addition to the students’ honors, Coach Dave, a teacher at the high school, earned his second Diamond Award after accumulating 39,000 coaching points throughout his career. Coaches earn the same milestones as students until they earn 10,000 points and the Donus D. Roberts Coaching Excellence award. Once coaches earn 15,000 points and have been coaching for at least five years, they are eligible to receive their first Diamond award. A subsequent Diamond award is earned at a cumulative 30,000 points and after five years of coaching. n

Rushikesh Kulkarni

Summer 2022

Nitish Sharma

Coach David Watson

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Boyce Student at Carnegie Hall Poems Selected for Publication This past January, Boyce Middle School fifth Poems from two Fort Couch Middle School #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat grader Arjun Kairi won first place in the flute students—seventh graders Anelise Castrodale category in the 2022 Crescendo International and Erin Wells—were selected for publication #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Shakespeare Contest music competition at New York City’s Carnegie in the Creative Communication poetry contest. This past February, two student teams Hall this past January. #TheyDidWhat Erin’s poem, #TheyDidWhat “Demons,” and Anelise’s poem, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat were selected as finalists in the 28 annual Arjun started his flute stud“Take Me Back,” will be published in a student Shakespeare Monologue & Scene contest at the ies at The Pittsburgh #TheyDidWhat Music poetry anthology. Only the top 45% of poetry #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pittsburgh Public Theater’s O’Reilly Theater. Academy at the age of three. entries are included in the anthology. USCHS students performed scenes from “A He currently participates in The poetry contest, open to students in #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Midsummer Night’s Dream.” In the Showcase fifth grade band at Boyce, led Kindergarten through grade nine, of Finalists were Claire Dietiker#TheyDidWhat (Hermia), by music teacher Craig Madge. is divided into three grade divi#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Lindsey Fitzgerald (Helena), Anvi Vaishya The competition is open to sions: K–3, 4–6, and 7–9. Poems (Demetrius), and Mira Murthy (Lysander). students ages five to 22. The can be 21 lines or less on any #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Arjun Kairi Performing scenes from “The Merry Wives first round of the competition topic. Entries are judged on litof Windsor,” and also in the Showcase of includes a live or video#TheyDidWhat recording evaluation. erary merit, creativity, and social #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Finalists were Boyce Middle School students Successful candidates are then invited to persignificance by published writers Anelise Opal Miller (Mistress Paige), Armen Pettit form in the second round#TheyDidWhat at one of three recitals and/or educators in elementary, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat (Mistress Ford), and Ishaan Sharma (Falstaff). in New York City. Competition diplomas are secondary, and higher education. Castrodale Earning honorable mention were Boyce issued following the second round. According to its website, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat student Aaron Jiang (Marc Antony) perCrescendo International music competition is “Creative Communication is forming scenes from “Julius Caesar;” Fort a youth music competition held annually since devoted to the promotion of #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Couch students Lizzie Myers (Jailer), Hayley 2007. Its mission is to inspire individuals to writing, teaching, and appreZeringue (Emelia), and Augusta#TheyDidWhat Bottonari pursue their passion for #TheyDidWhat music through involveciation of student writing. The #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat (Paulina) performing scenes from “The ment in competitions, master classes, and other intent of our student writing Winter’s Tale;” Kaia Petrick (Benedick), educational programs. contests is to#TheyDidWhat motivate student #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Erin Wells Pritika Gupta (Claudio), and Sara Gillespie writers.” (Don Pedro) performing scenes from “Much #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Ado About Nothing;” and USCHS student Emily Whiteford (Constance) performing scenes #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat from “King John.” Judging criteria included understanding of #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Junior Named to 18 Under Eighteen the text, emotional connectedness, character USCHS junior, Yoshna Venkataraman, was named among the 18 Under Eighteen honorees by development, physical and vocal performance, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania (JA). JA unveiled its inaugural class for 18 Under and pacing and the interaction amongst the Eighteen presented by NexTier Bank this past January. The program showcases the notable talents actors in a scene. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat and achievements of 18 of the region’s most incredible young people. National Hispanic Recognition Award #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Nominees were evaluUSCHS senior Eddie Albert was recognized with a National Hispanic recogated in the categories of nition award by the College Board.#TheyDidWhat To qualify, students must have a cumulative #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat leadership, community serGPA of 3.5 or higher and score in the top ten percent in the state on the PSAT vice, entrepreneurial spirit, or earn a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP exams before 11 grade.#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat extraordinary skill sets, and Eddie is a member of the high school’s National Honor Society, Cereal Club, any talent or intangible qualStudent Council, and varsity baseball team. He plans to continue his academic #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat ities that contribute to the and baseball career at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. nominee’s road to success. Eddie Albert The College Board’s program is an academic honor that can be included #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Yoshna was nominated on college applications. Colleges use these honors to identify students from underrepresented Yoshna by Dr. Stephen Torquato, Venkataraman groups who have excelled in the classroom and on the PSAT or AP exams. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Jr., USCHS social studies teacher, National Honor Society advisor, and Four Named U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidates #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Four USCHS seniors—Milan Giroux, Alex LeKachman, Sambhav Saggi. and Daniel Wang— yearbook co-advisor. As a student-leader, Yoshna is involved with were named candidates in the 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars program#TheyDidWhat for their outstanding #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat several organizations, including student counperformance on the SAT or ACT exam. cil, the school’s Junior Mentors program, and is The program, established in 1964, by executive order of #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the founder of Mending Mindset, an organizathe President, recognizes the accomplishments of some of the tion that focuses on mental health awareness at nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the high school. Application for the program is by invitation only. To be conNominations were cast throughout western sidered further, candidates must submit candidacy materials, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. A including essays, self-assessments, secondary school reports, Milan Giroux Alex LeKachman committee of community members reviewed and transcripts. Candidates are evaluated on their academic #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat each nomination and interviewed finalists to achievement, personal characteristics, leadership and service become the select 18. The class of 2022 feaactivities, and an analysis of their#TheyDidWhat essay. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat tures honorees ranging from age ten to 18 who Up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be recognized in represent a cross section of the region and from June at a ceremony sponsored by the White House. Since 1964, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat areas outside the Pittsburgh region, including this federal program has honored nearly 8000 U.S. students, Erie, Mercer, and Cambria counties. all who have demonstrated scholarship, leadership, artistic #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat excellence, and selfless service to others. Sambhav Saggi Daniel Wang #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Summer 2022 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 61 #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat th

#TheyDidWhat th

PTC Parent Teacher Council (PTC) Gina Swanson, President The end of the school year is such an exciting time! As we approach warmer weather and USC Community Day, students are busy dreaming of summer vacation and enjoying the traditional end-of-year activities. Many of these rite of passage activities are made possible because of the dedication of PTO volunteers. I would like to thank this amazing group of people, especially those who have served in a leadership capacity at all our schools. I am honored to have worked alongside these men and women who are dedicated, creative, and enthusiastic. Most importantly, they are appreciated by our entire school community! I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as the PTC president this past school year. This position has enabled me to work closely with Dr. John Rozzo and his administrative team. I see firsthand their exceptional dedication to our students’ educational experiences. Meeting the numerous challenges of recent years head on, Dr. Rozzo has set an example of strong leadership and problem solving. We are fortunate to have him and his team of administrators guide our District. I’d also like to acknowledge my predecessor, Kerstin Goodworth. While her official title is board advisor, I think of her more as Super Woman! Also, my thanks to the rest of the PTC executive board: Lindsay Beck, Shanna Caplan, and Laura Lisien. You ladies are the very definition of “amazing,” and I am fortunate to have spent time with all of you. I leave the PTC in the capable hands of upcoming president Shanna Caplan. Many of you will recognize Shanna from her volunteer efforts or her time as a substitute teacher at Boyce Middle School. I am confident that under her tenure, the PTC will continue to foster its strong partnership between USC families and the school administration. In the meantime, enjoy the remainder of the school year, have a great summer break, and don’t forget to join your PTO this coming fall!

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints... High School PTSO Maria Cedar, President As we come to the end of a challenging school year, I would like to say thank you to our administrators, faculty, and support staff, who pulled together to help our students and families. Thank you for your willingness to constantly change direction, while delivering consistent quality instruction. The reassuring custom of gathering together gave comfort to many. We united as a community to face the journey, with the heightened understanding of how to better care for one another. During this time, we found creative ways to embrace and reach out to others. But, let us not forget the importance of self-compassion; taking care of our needs first allows us to nurture others from a place of abundance. Masking has now become optional at our schools. Having said that, please remember to respect each other’s individual decisions to do what is best for themselves and their families. As is fitting, spring has heralded its seasonal renewal, and we now eagerly await summer. We appreciate the creativity of our talented students. USCHS theater students’ hard work was surely visible in Seussical, the school’s spring musical. We also admire the hard work of our musicians and athletes. We are constantly amazed at the many talents of our student body. Our students have joined forces this spring to plant 250 trees throughout the community. To accomplish this, the Kids Helping Kids Club, Environmental Club, and Environmental Science students partnered with Tree-plenish. Start planning those summer activities. Summer wellness program registration is open and will be held remotely for rising sophomores and rising seniors. We wish our graduating seniors a bright future, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments at the end of the school year. The PTSO thanks you for your support, and wishes you a wonderful summer!

Summer 2022

Fort Couch PTSO Sarah Beitler, President We’re closing in on the end to another school year. It has been a blessing to work with so many wonderful people at Fort Couch and throughout the District. You have all made my time as PTSO president a successful experience. I would like to especially thank members of the executive board—Christina Clodfelter, Siân Howell, Julie Zeringue, and Michelle Urban—who generously gave of their time. As a result, our children benefited immensely. I also would like to thank this year’s committee heads and all committee members. Your heightened commitment to building a strong family-school partnership and to making every child’s potential a reality is undeniable and remarkable. Happy retirement principal Joe Demar! Your expert leadership brought many years of school success, and the smiles of the students are evidence of the happy place that The Fort is. Your mark on the school’s history will be remembered, and we wish you the best of luck wherever life takes you. Parents who are new to Fort Couch and who are interested in getting involved with the PTSO should reach out to next year’s PTSO president Christina Clodfelter at fcptsopresident@gmail.com. Join the executive board, chair a committee, come to the meetings. A wealth of information that you won’t get anywhere else awaits. Have a wonderful summer, and see you when we return in August! Boyce PTO Pamela Scureman, President The Boyce PTO executive board— Andrea Amorose, Erica Baldasare, Terri O’Connor, Dr. Dan O’Rourke, Nicole Paoly, and Pamela Scureman—would like to extend its sincerest thank you to school administration, school staff, and all the Boyce families for the support that the PTO received during the 2021–22 school year. The Boyce PTO also wishes you a summer filled with family, friends, and happy memories!

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature Baker PTA Sarah Cranganu, President Why do we volunteer? We volunteer because it makes a difference for students, builds community, and develops friendship. None of the Baker PTA-sponsored events that enrich student life could occur without the time and effort of a few, and sometimes many, helpers. One example of this collaboration of volunteerism is the school’s annual Reada-Thon, a fundraiser that promotes reading and listening to stories. The District handles the technical aspects, Baker staff provides reading opportunities at school and through recorded bedtime stories, and Baker parents and family members read and help their children record their progress toward achieving their reading goals. Another example is the school’s annual Field Day, a fun time that includes more than 15 activities stationed throughout Baker Park. Students are guided by staff and parent volunteers, and enjoy a break with their classmates from the normal school routine. As we look toward the 2022–23 school year, we are fortunate to have a large group of dedicated volunteers committed to enhancing both the Baker student experience and the overall Baker community connection. That is why we volunteer!

Eisenhower PTO Justine Walker, President The last few months at Eisenhower felt like “business as usual,” which is a refreshingly wonderful thing. After the last couple of years of not knowing if or how events could be held, it is exciting to once again bring the Eisenhower community together by these means. On Friday, May 13, Eisenhower will host its first-ever Spring Carnival. The carnival is a replacement of the Eisenhowler, which is typically held each fall. The carnival will include games, raffles, a silent auction, food, and other activities, and will continue to raise money to support field trips, socials, community outreach, classroom gifts, and school-wide programs and events. Most importantly, it is the first opportunity in two years that many parents will have to meet other Eisenhower families and to volunteer at the school. In addition to Spring Carnival, the PTO will once again host Field Day and allow parents to help with Staff Appreciation Week. As I wrap up my tenure as president, I look forward to helping the new board continue these cherished events.

PTC

Streams PTO Jennifer Clougherty, President A major component of the Streams PTO is the first letter in our PTO acronym—“P” for parents! Our Streams parents are the lifeblood of the organization. Each PTOhosted event includes parent volunteers at center stage. Our biggest events, like Streams Stravaganza, fall and spring spirit wear sales, or restaurant Spirit Nights, would be nearly impossible to pull off without the parents who are willing to jump in and help. This year, the Streams room parents were excellent leaders, and they took charge to ensure that fun and festive holiday parties for all students were executed seamlessly. The Scholastic Book Fair and the school’s annual Holiday Shop are other opportunities for which parents volunteer and help the PTO in its ability to host things that our students look forward to every year. Without parents who help to run events, including the talent show, the fourth grade graduation party, and stations for Field Day and Kindergarten Olympics, the PTO’s offerings would be limited to much less. Behind the scenes, it’s our parents who help keep the internal workings of the PTO running smoothly. We could not function without them. We truly owe so much to these men and women, and we thank them immensely! n

USC Students Selected to PMEA Regional Chorus Festival Ten USCHS students—Skyler Bruno, senior–Alto 2; Kaitlyn Clougherty, senior–Soprano 1; Ella Elkoni, junior–Alto 1; Santina Guarino, junior–Alto 2, 2nd chair; Sia Iyer, junior–Alto 2, 1st chair; Hannah James, senior–Alto 1; Rebecca Lang, junior–Soprano 1, 4th chair; Adam Levine, sophomore–Bass 1, 2nd chair; Edy McCurrie, junior–Alto 2; and Hannah Rieger, senior–Alto 1—successfully auditioned to participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Region 1 Chorus Festival. The students receive music instruction from Lorraine Milovac, USCHS choral director.

All-State Orchestra Four USCHS students—Leona Chen, grade 10, violin; Sophie Chen, grade 12, violin; Miriam Gutensohn, grade 10, violin; and Joe Phillips, grade 12, cello—successfully auditioned to participate in the PMEA All-State Orchestra. The students receive music instruction from Christine Hestwood, orchestra conductor for the high school and strings teacher for Boyce and Fort Couch middle schools.

Leona Chen

Sophie Chen

Miriam Gutensohn

Joe Phillips Cont. on page 64

USCHS students selected for PMEA choir Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Inaugural Year for the Bocce Team

This year marks the inaugural season for the USCHS

Interscholastic Unified Indoor Bocce team. The co-ed team, partially funded and sponsored by Special Olympics PA, is made up of an equal number of students with and without disabilities. The team is coached by Anne Wagner, a teacher’s aide at Streams Elementary, and Katelyn Nassar, who previously coached a similar team at Mt. Lebanon High School. Although it is not a WPIAL sport, the bocce team is managed by Upper St. Clair’s athletic department. All participants must complete PIAA paperwork and are recognized in the same manner as other Upper St. Clair club sports. “The Unified Sports concept is different from many with which people are familiar. It is not a ‘buddy’ or mentoring program. All participants train and compete as equal teammates,” said Anne. “One of the most important principles of Unified Sports is meaningful involvement, and that applies to all of the athletes. Each one is learning, working, and growing through his or her experiences at bocce. Through this model, the kids become friends and true teammates.” Sixteen players comprise the bocce team. Eight players compete during each match, while the other eight fulfill various game roles. All matches are played indoors on a gym floor. The response from the school community has been overwhelmingly positive, which Anne attributes to the school’s established climate of inclusion. Numerous student groups, including the football team, boys and girls basketball teams, varsity and junior varsity cheerleaders, as well as staff members, families, and friends filled the stands for the team’s first home match against Moon Area High School. “We had a positive response and a great group of fans in the stands at our home match. It was amazing!” said Anne. Serving as officials for the home match were Upper St. Clair High School’s assistant principals Dr. Dan Beck and Cara Senger. “The best part for us was seeing the support from our student body,” said Cara. “To see the student sports groups and other USC students, as well, cheering on our participants was special and provided an exciting environThe USC Panther shows support at a home match. ment as the teams competed.”

The Unified Indoor Bocce season runs from December through February. As with varsity athletics, teams compete in post-season playoffs. Two Allegheny County teams advanced to the state-level USC’s bocce team members competition, which was held late March in Hershey. The idea of creating a bocce program at the high school was initially suggested to Amy Pfender, assistant superintendent, in 2019 by a parent. After researching, connecting with officials from Special Olympics, program planning, delays due to COVID-19, and a comprehensive review and approval process from Special Olympics PA, the bocce team was launched. “The idea of a bocce team was shepherded by Amy, who brought together a group of individuals from the athletic department, student support services department, and the school’s administrative team for initial planning,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal. “One of Amy’s primary goals was to continue to develop and offer programs in Upper St. Clair that promote an inclusive school environment.” The high school has numerous other programs in place that promote a culture of inclusion, including SHOP@USC, Partners in PE, and Best Buddies, in addition to a strong partnership with the Miracle League of South Hills. The Interscholastic Unified Indoor Bocce team was a natural fit. “As a school district, we strive to continue to grow best inclusionary practices for all students,” said Amy. “Competitive bocce is a way to provide another equal opportunity for students. With the support of high school administration, the athletic department, and wonderful coaches, bocce is now alive and successful in USC.” There are 18 Unified Bocce teams throughout the greater Pittsburgh area, including Avonworth, Baldwin, Carlynton, Deer Lakes, Elizabeth Forward, Fox Chapel Area, Franklin Regional, Hampton Area, Montour, Moon Area, Mt. Lebanon, Norwin, Pine-Richland, Shaler Area, South Park, Sto-Rox, Upper St. Clair, and West Allegheny high schools. n To learn more about Interscholastic Unified Sports, visit https://specialolympicspa.org/interscholastic-unified-sports.

Cont. from page 63

PMEA Band Musicians USCHS senior Phoebe Chen was selected through competitive audition for the PMEA All-State Band. A flutist, Phoebe attended PMEA’s 2022 All-State Festival and annual in-service conference in April. In addition, Phoebe, along with students Lauren Tenney, clarinet, and Ben Wasson, trombone, were selected to participate in the PMEA Region I Band Festival in March. The students receive music instruction from Dr. John Seybert, USC’s director of bands. Phoebe Chen

Lauren Tenney

Ben Wasson

All-State Choir Four USCHS students—Skyler Bruno, alto 2; Rebecca Lang, soprano 1; Sia Iyer, alto 2; and Edy McCurrie, alto 2—successfully auditioned to participate in the PMEA All-State Choir this past April. The students receive music instruction from Lorraine Milovac, USCHS choral director. n

Skyler Bruno

Rebecca Lang

Sia Iyer

Edy McCurrie

Pennsylvania Music Educators Association is a statewide nonprofit organization of more than 4000 members, dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The organization promotes and supports quality music education, learning and performance, as well as promoting and supporting music education in schools and communities. PMEA is affiliated with the National Association for Music Education. 64

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

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www.scottbroswindows.com

Summer 2022

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Ways to Keep Supply Chain Issues From Driving You Crazy These days, the waiting is the hardest part Geoff McQueen, McQueen Building Company, President

We’ve all been experiencing it and hearing about it. Supply chain issues around the country and the world are creating long wait times for things that used to be easily accessible. Maybe your favorite snack has been missing from grocery store shelves lately, or an outfit you’ve seen online continues to be on back-order in your size. You see a gorgeous piece of furniture that would look perfect in your living room, but it’s been out of stock for months, with no sign of progress. Or delivery will take three months, and you’d really like to have it now. For anyone redecorating their home or planning renovations, this can be frustrating. We get it! As a design/build firm, McQueen Building Company (McQueen) sources materials each day for projects in Upper St. Clair and throughout the South Hills and beyond. Responding to supply chain woes has been challenging. But McQueen has a strong sense of obligation to its clients to make sure none of the frustration gets passed on to customers. So, the already very creative team at McQueen has continually become more resourceful with strategies to respond to this new challenge. Some of these strategies may help you as you shop, decorate, and plan future home renovations this summer. Have things made locally. You might expect that custom-made items are always more expensive. But, they don’t have to be. McQueen can manufacture its own interior and exterior doors to bypass worries about lead time. And, since custom

doors can generally be manufactured for as low as off-the-shelf pricing and can be ready in as little as five weeks, there is no increased cost to the customer. Five weeks is about a quarter of the time it currently takes to have doors and windows shipped from major manufacturers. Beyond saving clients time and money, local manufacturing also limits the environmental impact. Because things are not shipped from out of town, the carbon footprint is lessened. Plan way in advance. McQueen is grateful to be so busy, and is scheduling projects many months in advance. Currently, the company is booking to the end of 2023 and further out. With jobs being scheduled that far in advance, it provides McQueen the opportunity to purchase materials long before they are needed. Much planning and lead time is involved in materials nowadays. For example, appliances taking 20 weeks for delivery is the norm. Windows and doors are the same. Protecting its clients from supply chain concerns by planning projects now that will happen months into the future, as well as ordering ahead (custom-crafting many items, too), ensures that McQueen will have all the materials it needs to get your job done, beginning to end. Be flexible. Certain staff members’ entire job at McQueen is sourcing materials and finding fantastic substitutes if an item isn’t available. If you’re shopping online for home furnishings, you should have a similar mindset. Be open to switching gears and finding something nearly identical that’s available sooner. Sometimes, you might find that the more easily available item better suits your needs than the out-of-stock piece you first saw. Buy decor items locally. When McQueen styles its clients’ homes and design spaces for photoshoots, they don’t hunt online for home decor. Everything is purchased locally. Not only is it a great way to support the local community and lower the carbon footprint of the items you buy, you might also find some incredible local treasures! One of McQueen’s favorite places to shop for antiques and other beautiful home goods of all kinds is Bass and Bennett. Their art experts source phenomenal antique pieces and hip, trendy decor items, too. Another antique and home decor shop is Bloom Home Market in McMurray. Check them both out! In the near future, McQueen is planning to launch its own home goods shop, beginning online and eventually branching out into a brick-and-mortar store. Stay tuned for news about that on McQueen’s social channels and at its recently redesigned website: mcqueenbuildingcompany.com. Supply chain issues and long wait times are definitely challenging for everyone. Lots of designers and builders are falling victim. McQueen is getting in front of these challenges by asking, “How can we solve it for our customers today, so they’re not the ones suffering?” We hope our strategies can help you, too! n Photo credit: Erin Kelly. See ad for McQueen Building Company on page 67.

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HOME & GARDEN

Photo: Erin Kelly

#MBCDreamHome www.mcqueenbuildingcompany.com

Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

HOME & GARDEN

Six Places for Awnings Lauren Costello, Mt. Lebanon Awning

Adding an awning to your home can have great benefits, but you may not be aware of the many placement options other than decks or entrances. Once you’ve determined placement, there are many awning styles to choose from. Here are six great locations for an awning on your home. Over your deck. A deck awning is a popular choice for many homeowners. Covering your outdoor entertaining space creates the perfect shaded area for summer parties, barbecues, or just enjoying a sunny day. A deck awning not only provides protection from the rain and sun, but also protect your outdoor furniture from fading, dirt, and leaves. There is the option of a retractable awning, which lets you decide when you want protection from changing weather. Over your patio. Similar to a deck, a covering over a ground-level patio is beneficial while entertaining and relaxing. With both over-thedeck and over-the-patio options, covering your entire outdoor space provides you the desired protection. Choices include fixed stationary awnings, retractable awnings, pergola shades, or free standing canopies. Over your front door. A front door awning can be useful for preventing rain or snow from getting into your house and provides protection to your visitors. It’s also a great way to distinguish your house from your neighbor’s, using a unique design and fabric color. Front door awnings usually remain in place year-round, and are sized to suit the scale of your home and front entrance. Over your back door. An awning on your back door has the same benefits as a front door awning, but can be more functional than decorative. You can incorporate a larger awning over your back door to serve as a small space for a seat in the shade, as well as protection from the elements. Over side windows. Installing awnings above windows on your home will increase shade and help decrease energy costs. They can prevent direct sunlight from coming through your windows, protecting interior fabric window treatments and furniture from fading. They can also help keep your home cooler, resulting in using your air conditioner less, thus decreasing your energy bill. Next to your pool. A shady place to lounge next to a swimming pool is another placement opportunity for an awning or free-standing canopy. Either one can provide shade on a hot, open pool deck. Another one is a pergola shade, which can provide flexible shade and add a distinctive style to your outdoor space. n

See ad for Mt. Lebanon Awning on page 68. Summer 2022

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HOME & GARDEN Guess Watts Here in 2022…

Lynn Dempsey

MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER REALTOR, ADVISOR, CONSULTANT @ COLDWELL BANKER REALTY SOUTH HILLS OFFICE

412.445.6264 412.833.5405

lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com

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SCAN ME TO CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE! NAFFILIATED REAL ESTATE AGENTS ARE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SALES ASSOCIATES, NOT EMPLOYEES. ©2021 COLDWELL BANKER. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. COLDWELL BANKER AND THE COLDWELL BANKER LOGOS 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 REALOGY BROKERAGE GROUP 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.

Is a Patio Home Right for You? Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®

In the last decade, I have seen more and more baby boomers and others who are considering buying a patio home. What is a patio home? There really isn’t an exact definition, as patio homes vary by region and the type of build. Most definitions, though, include the downsizing of the home, along with a sense of community. The term “patio home” usually refers to a home with affordability and low maintenance that does not sacrifice the quality of construction, and normally includes a community clubhouse.. There are normally a multitude of options when building or buying a patio home. Most homeowners who choose this style of home tend to decide that this purchase will be their forever home. Baby boomers, many of them, are looking to downsize with maintenance hired out—usually through a homeowners association (HOA) fee—to cut the grass, maintain the trees, shrubs, and mulch. Most patio homes are single-family homes with the primary living space all on one level. Sometimes, the home can include more options, like a loft area/second floor or, possibly, a game room. Most patio homes provide the buyer with an outdoor living space, such as a patio or deck, or both, and/ or a front porch. When a clubhouse is in an “over 55 community,” many times there are social directors who add a schedule of activities for all its residents. Facilities and activities might include swimming pools, fitness centers, social events, happy hours, horse shoes, and other events that are usually paid through HOA dues. Is a patio home right for you? Many retirees have decided that this is the wave of the future... their future. Less home to maintain, no yard maintenance, no snow shoveling, more free time to travel and spend with family and friends, and it provides a sense of community. All of these are good reasons! Gone are the days of having that second job of maintaining your home. Unclutter your life for an easier lifestyle. If that See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell sounds appealing, a patio home might be the right Banker Realtor®, on this page. choice for you! n 70

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Summer 2022

Don’t Put Your Peace of Mind in Jeopardy Chet Dudzinski, Generator Supercenter of Pittsburgh

I’ll take “Energy” for $1000. The answer is: Whole-home standby generators. What is... the solution to the aging power grid, and the need for uninterrupted power? Correct! Around the region and, indeed, the country, white box-like units about the size of a small air conditioner are appearing on the sides of houses. And, yes, they’re the solution to what’s become a grave concern around the country—an aging electrical grid that continually experiences failures, causing thousands of outages and affecting millions of people every year. The increasing electrical demand, as well as climate events, assures a continuing problem will exist. The solution: whole-home standby generators. In its biannual report on electrical events in Pennsylvania published in July 2021, the Pennsylvania Utility Commission (PUC) reports on the continuing increase in out-of-power events in the commonwealth. The report reveals that in 1993, a total of

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“Good landscaping doesn’t just happen, it’s designed.” 895,400 Pennsylvanians experienced loss of power events. One would think with the passage of time and increased technology, these numbers would decrease. That is not the case. Unfortunately, in the last reported year of 2020, the number of affected Pennsylvanians increased dramatically and reached 2,431,842! And there is no relief in sight. Trillions of dollars are needed to upgrade the national infrastructure of utilities, including electric. And, demand is going nowhere but up. Once reserved for only the most critical of buildings, such as hospitals and nursing homes, standby generators now offer energy solutions for houses of all sizes. Operating off natural gas or propane, these generators automatically turn on in the event of an electric energy failure. Unlike portable generators that only allow one or two extension cords to be run from the unit to power up specific appliances, whole-home generators can be sized directly to your energy needs, whether that’s keeping limited necessities running or allowing energy to flow to your home as if no outage had occurred. If a true outage happens, as opposed to a flicker, the home’s electrical power switches from the electric provider to the generator by means of a transfer switch. Depending upon the generator’s size, you will have all or most of your power needs met in a matter of minutes. Do you have a home office? A medical device? Air conditioner? Heat pump? How about the desire to watch TV or permit the kids to use their gaming devices? During a power outage, playing cards around a candle is no longer the only option. “Watt” is the local solution? Generator Supercenter (GSC) of Pittsburgh! GSC of Pittsburgh is member of GSC national that includes more than 60 U.S. locations and is the largest purchaser of Generac® generators in the world. GSC offers a holistic approach. Whether at its retail location, a visit to your home, or a virtual visit, GSC professionally matches a consumer with the proper unit. From there, permit applications, installation, service, monitoring, and warranty work are also offered. Many good electricians can install generators, but few offer services beyond that. At a time when our country is experiencing supply chain challenges, GSC’s extensive buying power can help you get your Generac generator up See ad for Generator Supercenter and running and monitored, giving you and your family of Pittsburgh on page 70. members peace of mind. n Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

AROUND THE TOWNSHIP

Grrr-Eight News About USC Rowing Ronald de Jong, USC Rowing, President

The past three years have been quite transformative for USC Rowing. In spring 2019, the team was in need of a new head coach and was in danger of not having enough rowers to sustain its nonprofit organization, USC Rowing Association. The organization’s board of directors, along with dedicated rowers, searched high and low for leadership. The search uncovered and selected Florin Curuea, an Olympic athlete who rowed in the 2012 London games for his native country of Romania. After coming to the U.S., Coach Curueau started Pittsburgh Rowing Club, which includes programs for both youth and adults. The catch was that USC Rowing would have to move its location to his home boathouse to make it work. On a hot, humid day in August 2019, a group of mighty (and sweaty) rowers, along with support from parent volunteers, moved the entire fleet and every last bit of equipment from of their longtime residence on Washington’s Landing to their new home at Montour Marina. A long day with a number of things that did not go as planned, it ended with smiles, meeting the new coaching staff, and what can only be described as the “best pizza ever” for the tired, hungry crew! Parents and rowers worked hard during that summer to recruit new rowers. Two Learn to Row camps were offered in June and August, which provided an opportunity for any USC student entering grades seven to 12 to tryout the sport, including the chance to row on the river on the third and final day of the program. The fall 2019 season began with more than 35 rowers from six various grade levels. The increase in numbers of middle school rowers enabled USC Rowing to create a true developmental team for the first time ever. The fall season kept everyone extremely busy, as many team aspects were reorganized to accommodate two separate practice groups, new busing schedules, and a different section of the river to learn and navigate. The move proved to be a positive one, as the rowers got to know their new wonderful coaches and enjoy a successful fall season on the water, rowing in regattas in Pittsburgh and Ohio.

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Summer 2022

When the weather turns colder, rowers head indoors for winter conditioning, with training focused on “erging” (rowing machines), as well as cardio and weight training. The team was poised to get back on the water March 16, 2020. But, everybody knows what happened next. COVID happened. Activities halted, plans changed, and there were long board meetings held over Zoom to figure out “what to do now?” And, of course, as the pandemic wore on, plans continually changed over the coming months. What stayed in place, though, was hard working, dedicated rowers, creative and committed coaches, a determined board, and supportive “what can I do to help?” parents. The 2019–20 season ended with a virtual team banquet. But, something that no one would have imagined happened. It brought the team together to celebrate the accomplishments of an eventful year. As time marched on with the ever-changing realities of life during a pandemic, the focus was consistent—do everything safely to provide great experiences for the student-athletes, while also looking ahead for the long-term health and growth of USC Rowing Association. A big part of the forward focus has been to address the needs of replacing and improving the fleet of boats and accompanying equipment. Through grants, fundraising, and the continued growth of the team’s numbers, much has been done: • Set up an association management platform • Purchase new equipment trailer • Complete rehab of the boat trailer • Purchase new launch boat (for coaching practices) • Purchase new team tent (for use at regattas) • Purchase two additional new “singles” rowing boats and oars • Purchase additional eight-person rowing boat and oars • Purchase new quad (four-person) rowing boat • Update online registration, communication, and payment systems • Sell equipment that was no longer used The most recent acquisition, an eight-person rowing shell from Cornell University, comes with a great legacy of rowers associated

with that boat, including Tracy Eisser, two-time world champion, four-time national team member, and two-time Olympian, and Cornell head rowing coach, the person from whom USC Rowing purchased the boat; Kate Roach, CRCA first team All American and U23 bronze medal, National team in 4x; Taylor Goetzinger, member of the U.S. U23 team; and Hilary German, who coached the boat to silver medal status at Eastern Sprints and went on to become an assistant coach for the U.S. Olympic team. Between the developmental and high school teams, USC Rowing now has more than 40 rowers. Enjoying a great 2021 fall season, they earned a number of medals in the regattas they attended, including Pittsburgh, Columbus, and Cleveland. From mid-November until the warmer weather allows (usually mid- to late-March), they are hard at work with indoor winter conditioning. The indoor erging competition, Erg In The Burgh, provides an opportunity to compete with other area teams for the fastest 2K (rowing 2000 meters). Now into the spring 2022 season, USC Rowing looks ahead to a bright future rowing at regattas in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and also in the Midwest Scholastic Rowing championship that will take place in Michigan this year. Their strength lies not only in their numbers, but in their sense of team and their dedication to one another and to their sport. If you have a middle school or high school student who is interested to try rowing, be on the lookout for USC Rowing Association’s Learn to Row events this spring and summer. Lead by head coach Florin Curuea and assistant coaches Madison Tresor, McDarragh Minnock, Jim Garver, and Michaela Curuea, along with captains Jules Gray, Lan de Jong, and Fern Brinkman, USC Rowing is back and is grrr-eight! n

Visit uscrowing.org to learn more.

We Care for a Woman’s Whole Life… for Her Whole Life A woman’s life is constantly evolving. From the teen years to motherhood, the beginning of menopause to the senior years, every woman deserves the very best care Dr. Michelle Dr. Paul Zubritzky for every stage of her life. That is why Harvison St. Clair Health’s obstetric and gynecologic (OB/GYN) services cover your whole life… for your whole life. The hospital’s passionate doctors, nurses, and support staff truly care about your quality of life—wherever you are on your journey. Whether you are a younger patient who is learning how to treat your body with respect during your early relationships, a pregnant patient who is preparing to become a first-time mom or expanding your family, or an older patient navigating midlife anxiety or life cycle changes related to menopause, St. Clair Health has you covered. St. Clair Health takes great pride in working through all the facets of your life to recognize challenges, solve problems, and personalize treatment plans that get you exactly where you want to go. Every step of the way, St. Clair Health is there to provide award-winning women’s healthcare with the most modern expertise and technology—all in a welcoming environment that provides the personal attention and respect you deserve. “We offer the kind of compassionate care that you don’t get everywhere. It’s more of a family atmosphere with a personal touch,” said Michelle Harvison, MD, chair of obstetrics and gynecology at St. Clair Health. “We have all the specialists you need, but we also provide more of the physical, social, and psychological services needed by women.” Paul Zubritzky, MD, who practices with St. Clair Medical Group, agrees that every member of the OB/GYN team consistently provides the one-on-one, expert-level care that St. Clair is known for. For decades, he and his team have gone above and beyond to support patients throughout labor and delivery—one of the hardest and most joyous events of their life at the same time. This personalized care is what makes the birth experience and women’s healthcare at St. Clair special. St. Clair Health’s goal isn’t to be the biggest; it’s to be the best healthcare system for its patients. “When you’re choosing something as important as where to deliver your baby or receive obstetric and gynecologic care,” says Dr. Harvison, who practices with Advanced Women’s Care of Pittsburgh, “the most important thing is finding a dedicated team you can trust—one that strives to build relationships that last. And that’s exactly what we do here.” St. Clair Health provides a range of OB/GYN services that span all stages of a woman’s life, enabling your care team to create connections for life. From obstetric services to postpartum care, gynecologic services to minimally invasive surgical procedures, the shared goal of the hospital’s OB/GYN team is to empower you to engage in an active partnership for all your health needs throughout your life. n Learn more about St. Clair Health’s OB/GYN services at stclair.org. See ads for St. Clair Health on pages 2 and 44. Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

CFUSC’S Great Duck Race

returns with excitement, anticipation and great prizes!

Online Duck Sales will close at 9 p.m. on Friday, May 20

Ducks will be for sale at the Community Foundation Booth on Community Day, Saturday, May 21

Are your ducks in a row?

(Sorry, but we just had to say that!)

2022 PRIZES ... and more! ir iPad A e l p p A w/wifi 10.2”

Golf Outing for 4 $100 cash

Top Golf Gift Card

Framed Lith by Loca ograph l Artist

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CFUSC President and High School Guidance Counselor Gordon Mathews recently revealed how excited he is that the Great Duck Race will be a live event this year. He reminisced, saying that “as a child I stood on the banks of McLaughlin Run, rooting for my duck!” Following the race this year, you can find Gordon wading in the creek gathering up all of the ducks to take them back to their roost until next year! 74

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Summer 2022

Pet Photo Package Wholey Shopping Experience and Gift Card

See you at the

Great Duck Duck Race Race

Do you have a great idea? Maybe we can help you to help our community. Go to cfusc.org/grants to apply for a grant. Do you have skills that you can share? Go to cfusc.org/trustee-application. During the last few years, your Community Foundation has been engaged in strategic planning. Recently, a clear vision statement was established and we tweaked our mission statement to guide our future endeavors to build greater enrichment for all who reside here. If you have expertise in Arts, Health, or STEM, consider giving back to friends and neighbors of all ages by becoming a CFUSC volunteer. Everything involving CFUSC is about investing in residents and their ideas. Volunteers share an hour or two each month as trustees, or they donate their expertise and time as members of a focus committee. CFUSC has engaged in dozens of partnerships and hundreds of projects since 1993, as well as countless events, while granting funds to support ideas, projects, and initiatives that may not be funded by tax dollars. We are here for you. You can also volunteer by applying for a grant for a unique project that will engage residents, create opportunities, foster collaboration and partnership, celebrate successes, and strengthen unity in our community. Please join us as a volunteer to perpetuate our vision and sustain our mission. Upcoming Dates Cozy Up With Books 2022 June 2 September 11 November 3 This “lucky duck” is taking time to read a good book!

Visit Cozy Up With Books at twpusc.libcal.com/event/8597838 for book titles, and times for book club meetings Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

History of Westminster Manor The Upper St. Clair neighborhood known as Westminster Manor developed in the 1960s. In 1961, lots were planned for Perry J. Dick, Donald M. Brown, and May M. Orr by Kurch-Housley & Associates Inc., an engineering and surveying firm. The streets in this new neighborhood were all named by Louise Dick. An earlier map created in November 1952 by M.E. Frye, Township engineer, shows that the land that became Westminster Manor was owned by Alexander Gilfillan and J.A. Orr. It was located behind the still relatively new Westminster Presbyterian Church building, constructed in 1948. The new neighborhood filled in the undeveloped area between the church and the Trotwood Acres plan of homes, another neighborhood built on property once owned by Orr family members. By 1962, the main entrance to Westminster Manor, traffic circle, and rough roadways were established. The neighborhood’s first home, belonging to Donald and Jean Brown, was built on the hill (see photo). Classified advertisements in Pittsburgh newspapers promoted the area’s “executive-type homes” and location within walking distance of the newly-opened Upper St. Clair High School, trolleys, and bus routes. Westminster boasted several firsts for the Township. It was the first neighborhood to have sidewalks and underground utilities.

Highlights of the Historical Society

Alexander Gilfillan Garden Last year, the Alexander Gilfillan SHIM Garden generated more than 3000 pounds of produce. Volunteers from Westminster Presbyterian Church, USC School District, Horses with Hope, and the Upper St. Clair-Bethel Breakfast Rotary are again hard at work to grow this year’s harvest to support the groups that SHIM Garden serves. Restoration Work Work on Gilfillan Farm continues. Last year, a grant provided by the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County Gaming Economic Development Fund assisted in the restoration of the farm’s springhouse. After repairs and redirecting the water source back to its original flow, the springhouse once again demonstrates how early residents used the cold water to “refrigerate” food. 76

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House plans had to be approved and meet design requirements, including roofs made of shake tile or slate, thermal windows, and approved landscaping plans. Another requirement focused on lot size. The lots had to be wide enough to accommodate driveways, since garage doors were to be built either on the sides or backs of the homes. For those interested to learn about what some may call that “annoying” traffic circle in the neighborhood—the reason is because of a tree. When planning the roads, there was a tree located in the middle of a proposed street. Mr. Orr, who owned that parcel of land, would not allow the tree to be cut down. So, a traffic circle was planned around the tree, and a second traffic circle was placed at the entrance of the neighborhood to match it. n —Article courtesy of Carolyn Jones Friedrich, historian, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Proposed plots of Westminster Manor

This year, the sliding doors on the Gilfillan Farm’s big red barn are in need of repair so that Horses with Hope can better use the space. Fundraising is also underway to support repairs to the Gilfillan Farmhouse. The house’s iconic red brick needs to be repointed, and much of the farmhouse’s exterior woodwork is in need of repair. Horses with Hope Horses with Hope (HWH) returns to Gilfillan Farm after spending the winter at their Brush Run Road facility in Bethel Park. Look for the horses and other animals when walking the Photo credit: Gilfillan Trail. To learn more about Shannon McKenzie Horses with Hope’s programs, see page 78 and visit their website at horseswithhope.org. Community Day 2022 Gilfillan Farm is eager to welcome residents during Upper St. Clair’s Community Day on Saturday, May 21. Keep an eye out for the Historical Society’s Facebook page to learn more about Community Day and other upcoming events at the farm! (See more Community Day information on pages 26–27.) n See TODAY’s website (twpusc.org/usctoday) for the posting of the three-part series of Upper St. Clair As It Was, by Margaret Gilfillan, that concludes coverage of the 40-page historical paperback book about the Township’s early history. Contact usctoday@usctoday for more information.

The retirement you envisioned is here.

Welcome to Providence Point, Pittsburgh’s premier 62+ Life Plan Community, designed especially for you—for the way you live now, with the added peace of mind you want for your future. We put wellness and exceptional healthcare services* at the center of all we do, along with offering spacious residences and unparalleled amenities. Pittsburgh’s Premier Retirement Community *Providence Point Healthcare Residence was recently rated as one of the Best Nursing Homes in the USA by US News & World Report.

500 Providence Point Boulevard | Pittsburgh, PA 15243 | www.ProvidencePoint.org

Magic Comes to Providence Point PP Ad-USCSummer2022.indd 1

3/29/2022 2:34:45 PM

Marilyn Walsh, Providence Point

From Utrecht, the Netherlands, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the first Tovertafel arrived here about six months ago. Today, it’s making a difference in the lives of older adults with dementia. Tovertafel, which means magic table in Dutch, is an innovative electronic gaming system, using light projections that challenge players to respond to prompts to develop or maintain their skills in a fun and playful way. By projecting images onto a table, people with dementia can interact with games and activities that use light and sound as stimulation. The Tovertafel promotes physical activity and mental stimulation that also improves relationships with care providers and residents as they “play” together. The different games can also help evoke memories and stories from residents, which help to further build connection with caregivers and loved ones. Baptist Homes Foundation received the table as a gift from a family who wishes to remain anonymous, but asked that it be named “Bob’s Magic Table” in memory of a loved one who had been a resident. The

donor stated, “If the magic table helps just one person, it will be worth it.” Kim Salvio, Providence Point’s director of Personal and Memory Care, re a c h e d o u t to the Tover ® headquarters to bring the research-backed technology to the senior living community’s residents. “The Tovertafel stimulates eye-hand coordination, social engagement, gross motor function, and helps to relax the residents and redirect their attention. Though the Tovertafel is not listed as a clinical device, the results are noticeable. It’s become more of an activity for our residents, and we see a definite improvement in a resident’s demeanor and mood.” The founder of Tover, Hester Le Riche, says her research focused on equipment specifically made for those with cognitive challenges, as well as their caregivers Summer 2022

Residents using the Tovertafel

and family members. In Le Riche’s research, she found the effects from this stimulation could last a few hours up to a few days, consequently enabling people with dementia to be more alert and social. Providence Point’s memory care residence—20 private suites situated around a common area that includes a dining room, activity area, TV room, a secure outdoor garden area—now also includes an area for Bob’s Magic Table. n See ad for Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community on this page. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Horses with Hope is Back at Gilfillan Tim Gagne

Back on the Farm

The partnership between Horses with Hope, a therapeutic riding nonprofit, and the Upper St. Clair Historical Society’s Gilfillan Farm continues. The program has entered its second year with the return of Horses with Hope’s animals to the big red barn at Gilfillan Farm from their winter quarters in Bethel Park. It was the hope of the Gilfillan family that animals make a return to the historic farm. This arrangement allows the Historical Society to fulfill that wish, while giving Horses with Hope a great place from which to serve the area with therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning, and other important programs and events.

New Neigh-bors

Joining the Horses with Hope herd this year are four new therapy horses: Miracles, Hope, Fritz, and Sonny. The new horses are Haflingers, a golden chestnut-colored breed known for their sturdiness, steady disposition, and trainability, making them ideal therapy horses. Prior to the horses’ return to Gilfillan, the new recruits underwent specialized training with Samara Manich at NGU Horse Training. In addition to getting the horses accustomed to the types of games and lessons Horses with Hope’s clients engage in during their therapeutic riding sessions, the animals were desensitized to sounds, movements, and behaviors they may experience with some special needs riders. n

Save the Date Events Belmont Jewel Fundraiser

On Saturday, June 11, Horses with Hope’s Belmont Jewel fundraiser will return to St. Clair Country Club. This annual Guests at the 2021 Belmont fundraiser event, the primary fundraiser for Horses with Hope, has become a must-attend evening due to its Derby-like atmosphere of casual elegance. Following arrival and a relaxing cocktail hour, guests are treated to a delicious dinner and an enlightening presentation on the works of Horses with Hope. Fun games and a silent auction will provide attendees further opportunities to support Horses with Hope and go home with some exciting prizes. For sponsorship opportunities and tickets, visit horseswithhope.org/events. n

Day of Victory

September event date TBD

Meet Rex

Meet Rex, a Horses with Hope horse you may see as you walk or drive by Gilfillan Farm this summer. A young Haflinger, Rex Rex is lively and spry, and loves to test the elders in the herd. Even with his spirited demeanor, he has proven himself to be a safe and reliable lesson horse, a wonderful asset to the program, and a favorite among riders. n 78

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Day of Remembrance 2021

Horses with Hope’s programs focus on improving the lives of children, youth, and adults with special needs, assisting them to reach beyond their abilities, allowing daily success and milestones to be accomplished by the partnership developed by horse and rider. Safety is their main goal, and the group has trained volunteers who lead the horse and act as sidewalkers on each side of the rider, keeping focused on allowing them as much independence as possible. For more information, visit horsewithhope.org.

Summer 2022

Summer at Wingfield Pines Lindsay Dill, Allegheny Land Trust, Marketing Communications Director As summer approaches, the team at Allegheny Land Trust (ALT) is looking forward to sharing time on the land with volunteers, explorers, and supporters of conservation. The past few years have been underscored by uncertainty, and while our world continues to be complicated, ALT remains steadfast Collecting a water sample in protecting, maintaining, and improving green space and providing environmental education to all ages, fostering the next generation of land stewards. Spring and summer at Wingfield Pines always promise gorgeous hikes, incredible views of the functioning AMD Bike riding on the system, fascinating wildlife acboardwalk tivity, opportunities for shared education and recreation with fellow explorers, and more. Summer is also filled with activites organized by ALT’s annual Hamm intern. And, while ALT’s intern has yet to be chosen at the time of this writing, take the opportunity to get to know him or her and see what background that person brings to our green space. In the past few years, ALT’s team has developed additional ways to engage all ages for in-person environmental education programming, as well as offering an intriguing virtual learning environment to create richer connections with the knowledge of nature. This summer, ALT will offer both outdoor and virtual programs related to nature at Wingfield Pines. There’s something interesting for everyone in ALT’s line up of events (see list), and check out ALT’s website calendar for more programs currently under construction. ALT is always developing new ideas and activities! This summer, pledge to be a part of the virtual learning environment or visit Wingfield Pines in person to walk the trails. If you’re not already a member, consider joining to support ALT’s work in helping local people save local land. n

Events World Migratory Bird Day @ Wingfield Pines Saturday, May 14 8–10 a.m. Tickets: alleghenylandtrust.networkforgood.com/ events/37876-world-migratory-bird-day Common Mushrooms of the Garden and Yard Webinar Wednesday, June 8 5–5:45 p.m. Tickets: alleghenylandtrust.networkforgood.com/ events/40414-common-mushrooms-of-the-garden-andyard-webinar All About Bees Webinar Wednesday, June 22 5–5:45 p.m. Tickets: alleghenylandtrust.networkforgood.com/ events/39119-all-about-bees-webinar Magnificent Moths Webinar Wednesday, July 27 5–5:45 p.m. Tickets: alleghenylandtrust.networkforgood.com/ events/40444-magnificent-moths-webinar Snakes of Pennsylvania Webinar Wednesday, August 17 5–5:45 p.m. Tickets: alleghenylandtrust.networkforgood.com/ events/40450-snakes-of-pa-webinar

You never know what you’ll see at Wingfield Pines

Become a member: alleghenylandtrust.org/become-a-member/ Learn more about Wingfield Pines: alleghenylandtrust.org/green-space/wingfield-pines/ Find an upcoming event: alleghenylandtrust.org/events/ Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

On Stage with Jim and Lanny Tune in to 15241 TODAY talk “On Stage with Jim and Lanny” to enjoy the half-hour broadcast that engages local celebrities and people with ties to USC. Through light-hearted, friendly conversations, the show is co-hosted by Jim Render and Lanny Frattare and aired on USC’s TV stations, Cable 7 or Verizon 42. The broadcast can also be viewed at any time using a computer or handheld device. Search YouTube for “Upper St. Clair Public Access Television” to choose the broadcast you’d like to watch, or visit USC Township’s website (twpusc.org) and click on USC Cable TV under the “Community” subhead to see the current program schedule. Visit the online version of TODAY’s summer 2022 edition at twpusc.org/usctoday to access this page, and click the live links to the interview(s) of your choice. n YouTube links for all guests appearing on 15241 TODAY talk, “On Stage with Jim & Lanny” since initial airing in May 2019. Jim Render/Part 1 https://youtu.be/ceA5lmyB9_o Jim Render/Part 2 https://youtu.be/7dE8W7MXlHQ USC Chiefs of Police Bryson and Wharton https://youtu.be/0GWNTM1oYRo Steve Blass https://youtu.be/ulB7HuPQh38 Kent Tekulve https://youtu.be/FaLYLOcLswE Jerry Berteotti https://youtu.be/Hn89yQPo2XU Lanny Frattare https://youtu.be/OVIDXc1cYEA Phil Newcamp https://youtu.be/Ko-YfWhAzgM Dr. Kevin Deitrick https://youtu.be/hu4bCpgAk4Q D. Michael Fisher https://youtu.be/D1SR_zjGiqI Grant Jackson https://youtu.be/R5j-0jL76w0 Suzie McConnell-Serio https://youtu.be/zmR5VMh1w40 Sean Casey https://youtu.be/6wvnI-0bltM Pat Palazzolo https://youtu.be/aC3fnQl-p7o Danny Holzer https://youtu.be/RovaBAkqXu0

Eddie Johnston https://youtu.be/yhbVhnvM62U District Magistrate Ronald Arnoni https://youtu.be/AIEzC5dON5A Gene Steratore https://youtu.be/GFIJ2E1x9LU Angela Petersen https://youtu.be/kF6vm1w1x-E Jim Leyland https://youtu.be/Mvs6luSfaDU Dave Schraven https://youtu.be/_WHQNHLarqg Missie Berteotti https://youtu.be/9r32ZEvt52s Dr. John Rozzo https://youtu.be/DNAL0uxOsDc Dr. Terry Kushner https://youtu.be/nInWcvJsKh8 Jerry Malarkey https://youtu.be/LgGJbrhLHYs Tim O’Malley https://youtu.be/l0ggzyhKblg Jim O’Brien https://youtu.be/KAaXHSv2IxM Von Campanella https://youtu.be/8Y1KApyV2Zw Josh Helmrich https://youtu.be/gbmen62gOgk Tony Accamando https://youtu.be/YJbAouEkWTY Todd Flynn https://youtu.be/yqhmfbJDQMU Craig Wolfley https://youtu.be/bHX3HO7jcK8

COVID 19 discussion https://youtu.be/-nxigTAhJfw Mike White https://youtu.be/ZvSDNXRCwRw Doug Whaley https://youtu.be/GO4PyX8l5ZE Ryan Huzjak https://youtu.be/ZGq6_JcdwnQ Don Rebel https://youtu.be/yT4k4fjSxPc John Banaszak https://youtu.be/qLPUGWJudio Mark Gentile https://youtu.be/b1v4GOcX1o0 John Sakoian https://youtu.be/_RuFCvATAOc Matthew Serakowski https://youtu.be/TlxLGPyUf2M Dr. Timothy Wagner https://youtu.be/Z4dG5_cnan4 Rich Donnelly https://youtu.be/8FykZLeKUmw Amy Scheuneman https://youtu.be/EtpLmiCXk04 Rep. Natalie Mihalek https://youtu.be/T9FPo__qVz4 John Steigerwald https://youtu.be/S7Ha5NN3FEw Kevin Orie https://youtu.be/wHKmmDFNETU Joe David https://youtu.be/MM6nQo5BIlk Matthew Serakowski and Dr. John Rozzo https://youtu.be/k-U1-zz-IEo

The Mascaro brothers https://youtu.be/bgCnBBWZrsw Pete Serio https://youtu.be/n03lpqEYIog Joe DeMar https://youtu.be/NQjLrGl8x04 Coaches round table https://youtu.be/DHNK1q7KYWE Gordon Mathews https://youtu.be/2SiuwKrLVKQ Amy Pfender https://youtu.be/Va72gRGtD3Y Sports broadcasters https://youtu.be/cjiAQojvz10 Dr. Jack Failla https://youtu.be/H1cF8OtDfEY Josh Matheny https://youtu.be/I3y5vol3yh8 Pam Dillie https://youtu.be/Azupdsep6iA Chris Gmiter https://youtu.be/T6k9bFvDMro Mel Blount https://youtu.be/elsHEhYBt3Y Mike Junko https://youtu.be/qTObjMCi8v8 Pat and Nancy McDonnell https://youtu.be/fdqrhfpslsA Mark Miller https://youtu.be/HyJE1zL9eRo Ben Edwards https://youtu.be/g8215UuuEZ0

Stay tuned for more...

My Upper St Clair Neighborhood Sandy Goldstein

Life can change in a matter of seconds. This past December, I found out how a split second made a huge change in my life. I was getting ready to go to the gym. Walking down the stairs from the second floor of my house, I accidentally missed a step and fell forward. My husband heard me call out while he was bringing in our garbage cans from the street to the garage. I could not put weight on my leg. We waited for about an hour before calling the ambulance to take me to St. Clair Health. The USC police arrived at my house and waited with me until the ambulance arrived. I also called Dr. Shaka Walker—an orthopedic surgeon who lives in USC—to my rescue. Back in 2014, I helped him with the purchase of his house. He operated on my leg, putting my knee back together with a plate and screws, while 80

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also repairing my two leg fractures. He did a fabulous job, and was the best at helping me keep a good attitude and made me feel more positive after each post-op appointment. My neighbors, friends, and family were also very helpful, and arranged for food to arrive to my house almost every day. My husband, Marshall, was the best at helping me! He did everything from cooking, laundry, and serving me meals, to helping me get washed and dressed. He stayed at my side for weeks, sleeping on the sofa next to my temporary hospital bed set up in the family

Happenings! Upper St. Clair Rotary Farmer’s Market

AHA Walk

The USC Farmer’s Market, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Upper St. Clair–Bethel Park (Breakfast), is in full swing again this year. Every Thursday 4–7 p.m., May–September, stop by to the south parking lot of Westminster Church on Route 19 for some great finds and wonderful food selections. Vendors from 2021, as well as some new exciting options, await.

Walk to support Eileen “Nurse” Kline and a cause she was incredibly passionate about. Eileen loved walking, especially with family and friends, and made it a point to take a walk at least once a day. She was an advocate of the American Heart Association (AHA), a frequent volunteer, and a leader of key AHA events. A community walk supporting the AHA will honor her legacy. Donations benefit the American Heart Association.

Golf League Women’s Golf Association of Mt. Lebanon invites all area women to join the group every Tuesday morning, now through September. Membership is open to all skill levels. For more information, contact Sharon Ackerman at 412-480-3319.

Flea Market The Labouré Ladies Guild of St. Catherine Labouré Parish will hold its annual flea market, “Timeless Treasures,” 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Friday, July 22 and 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, July 23 in the LeGras Parish Center (lower level), 320 McMurray Road. Sale items will include gently-used children’s clothing to size 6, toys, jewelry, decorative items, knick-knacks, kitchen items, holiday decorations, linens, tools, books, some furniture, and a boutique offering better quality items. Due to fire restrictions, strollers are not permitted inside the center.

USC

Day

The annual Upper St. Clair School District Kennywood Day is Monday, June 20. Discounted tickets must be purchased online at kennywood.com. Use “USC” as the promo code. Tickets purchased online using the promo code are $29.99 each, plus an additional $3 processing fee per ticket (maximum of $9.99). There is no

Date: Saturday, May 21 Registration/check-in: 9:30 a.m; Start time: 10 a.m. Location: Baldwin High School stadium, 4653 Clairton Blvd.

Scan QR code for more information.

USCHS Class Reunion 50th reunion of USCHS’s Class of 1972 Friday–Saturday, September 16–17 Locations/Activities: • Friday: Informal gathering at Primanti Bros./ Mt. Lebanon (cash bar). • Saturday: Tour of USC High School. Limited passes to the C&RC for working out or gym use; possible golf outing or Top Golf event. • Saturday evening: Informal reunion event (buffet Jim Roussos, USCHS and cash bar) at St. Clair Country Club. Come Class of ‘72 prepared to have fun and reconnect with your classmates! Details via email, Facebook, and the USCSD website. Visit connect2USCSD.com for updates and more information. Questions? Contact Carole Stevens at rho4cs@verizon.net or text 412-401-3891.

limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased. A full-price general admission ticket is $64.99. When purchasing tickets, you must select a specific date to visit. According to Kennywood, surcharges may apply if tickets are used on a different date other than selected. Tickets purchased with the “USC” promo code are valid for use through June 30.

PERFORMANCE EXCEEDS PROMISES!

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GOLD TEAM more than 30 YEARS of real estate experience

Sandy Goldstein ABR e-Pro Marshall Goldstein, The Gold Team Caring and fun neighbors of Upper St. Clair

room. I could not have recovered at our home without his help. I am very happy to live in Upper St. Clair. My neighbors and my community friends are the best! This is just one example of the community that is Upper St. Clair. n See ad for Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein this page. Summer 2022

Tel: 724-941-9400 x 215 Cell: 412-721-0306 The Gold Team, Keller Williams Realty PA License RS162211A

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

TODAY Takes to the Slopes This past February, TODAY magazine, along with the Krugh and Beitler families, visited Steamboat Springs, Colorado, for some winter fun. The third such ski vacation these two Upper St. Clair families have taken together (previously Mammoth in California and Deer Valley in Utah), this year they enjoyed many long runs on Why Not Trail, as well as more challenging runs, including Middle Rib Trail and Biscuits Trail. Midweek, a snowstorm rolled in that brought lots of new, fresh powder that added to the great ski conditions. Steamboat Springs is a wonderful family destination for skiing, and boasts some great restaurants, as well as hot springs to relax in after a long day of skiing. The historic downtown offers fun shopping on Lincoln and Yampa streets. Take your family, take your friends, and get away for some winter fun! n Posing in front of the “SNOW” Steamboat sign, left to right: Reed Krugh, Josh Beitler, John Krugh, Sonia Krugh, Joey Krugh, Matt Beitler, Sarah Beitler, Rich Beitler

TODAY Attends Seussical, the Musical TODAY traveled locally to Upper St. Clair High School for the spring musical this past March. Congratulations to the entire student cast, directors, and USC team of staff and community volunteers! A night out to be entertained by Seussical was so much fun, even magical! The host of colorful characters transported the audience between different worlds and inspired the message of inclusion and that nobody is too small. The performances ended with roaring applause and standing ovations from the very young to the older patron and everyone in between. TODAY was thrilled to be a part of the audience for this production! n

TODAY accompanies the Krugh and Beitler families on their ski trip to Steamboat Springs.

Instructions for Traveling with TODAY Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information. • Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stay-athome project. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Email information to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

See a photo collage of various Seussical scenes and actors on page 55. 82

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

USC Flag Mystery Solved An article in the October 1992 edition of the USC Township Report, the Township’s newsletter prior to TODAY magazine’s beginning in 1994, solves the mystery of the origin of the Upper St. Clair Township flag. USC flag hanging at In a community contest, USC resident Brian the municipal building Cummings designed the winning flag and was awarded a $100 savings bond. The flag’s elements include the following: • Colors: black, white, red. • Crest, upper left: image of the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, a famed local historical event. • Crest, upper right: image of USC’s 1830 log house. • Crest, lower left: image of the family unit, representing USC residents. • Crest, lower right: ship of commerce, representing a community rich in business professionals. Once available for purchase, the flag flies in various locations throughout the Township, most notably at the municipal building, as well as at Boyce Mayview Park, hanging among the revered U.S. and Pennsylvania commonwealth flags. Thanks to Karen Kutschbach, Township receptionist, who researched various historical documents to help us find the answer to the question TODAY posed in its spring edition in the article “Sleuths Wanted!” n

Velveteen Dream Hair Loft, LLC | Laid Back Luxury Hair Salon | Owned by USC graduate Abigail Bishop 3907 Washington Road Peters Township Sola Salon #3 724.705.9414

All new clients receive a 10% discount! Scan here to make your appointment!

Having a strong background in education within the hair styling industry, Abigail Bishop, USCHS Class of 2013, has been in the hair styling business for seven years. Starting as a licensed cosmetology instructor for a Paul Mitchell school for five years, she then spent two years with Drybar, first as a stylist, then a leader, and eventually becoming the shop educator. Now at her own salon, Velveteen Dream Hair Loft, Abby shares, “I truly love styling hair, and think it’s the cherry on top to have your hair done, and done right. My goal as your stylist is to meet you at what makes you feel beautiful! I enjoy meeting and getting to know my clients, celebrating their best moments and being there for them through the hard ones.” n

Flags hanging at Boyce Mayview Park

See ad for Velveteen Dream Hair Loft on this page.

Doors of USC is Back! USCHS varsity softball got into the swing of things. Kicking off the season at 6 a.m. on March 23, the team hopped on board a coach bus and traveled to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for a week of training. Two senior team members—Ava Martin and Emma Redlinger—were supported by their family and friends with traditional USC spirit door signs.

USCHS varsity softball teammates

Ava Martin Emma Redlinger

Do you have a photo to share of your student-athlete being supported through Doors of USC? Take time to share it by emailing usctoday@usctoday.org, attaching a photo (minimum 300 dpi), and including the name of the person in the photo, along with any detail information. We look forward to sharing your photos with our community, too! n Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Look for the Helpers Marie Sauret

Matteo is a funny, silly, loving boy of seven with level three

autism. He is considered non-verbal and a risk to himself. Matteo lacks self-awareness in safety. He will run in the middle of a street, in front of a car, into the woods by himself, without thinking twice. He stims in public, and while he won’t make eye contact or initiate conversation, he very much likes other people and their attention. My husband and I wanted to give Matteo the gift of independence and safety; we wanted to gift Matteo a forever friend. We started researching service dogs about two years ago. Lots of our time was spent talking to breeders, meeting with trainers, meeting older service dogs, and playing with several breeds. My research began at the USC Township Library, where Ms. Colleen Miles encouraged me with books about parenting, dog breeds, and training your own dog. While training a service dog (followed by a trainer) is and will continue to be a lot Luna and Matteo of work, it allows the family to receive a service dog as a puppy and to save a lot of money. Already-trained service dogs can run between $16,000 to $20,000. While some families choose to do fundraising or create a GoFundMe account, my husband, Michael Nicolella, and I knew that wasn’t our calling. As we continued to research and save for our special new friend, the universe provided. I was at the right place at the right time when I learned of K9 for Kids and its relationship with the Autism Society of Pittsburgh. K9 for Kids breeds and helps you train your own German Shepherd to be a service dog for a child with autism. Our first step with K9 for Kids was to watch a search and rescue at Mingo Creek. The experience left us overjoyed with hope for Matteo. The trainer and I got along right away; he answered my questions with confidence and kindness. Through the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and K9 for Kids, we applied for a grant from Camp Bow Wow® (Pittsburgh Southwest) in Greentree. The application for a service dog was opened to the community and, among other criteria, required specific elopement incident information about our child. After we submitted our application, we anxiously waited… and waited. On Friday, March 4, we received a call that Matteo had been selected as the

grant recipient provided by Camp Bow Wow. Two days later, we met with K9 for Kids to receive our dog. However, when you receive a service dog, you don’t choose The Nicolella family, left to right: Mica, your dog; the dog chooses Michael, Palmiro, Marie Sauret, and Matteo; photo credit: you. Having a dog pick my Sarah Huggins Photography family was nerve wracking for me. What if no dog chose us? My worries were ended when we arrived at Mingo Creek; Luna picked us right away. K9 for Kids asked us do a few exercises with the litter of two to see if Luna would continue to choose us. There were no questions; the litter understood that Luna was ours. Luna followed Matteo around, locked eyes with me several times, and looked back at her sister, letting her know to not even try. Luna’s sibling sat on the sidelines and watched, knowing that we were not going to be hers. As we enter this new terrain of training our dog, we have experienced so much kindness. There is no doubt that Luna and Matteo have made a connection. Luna loves to follow Matteo around, and while she will not attend school with him, she gets him on and off the bus every day. Luna will help Matteo gain his independence as he grows older. She will keep him safe, encourage him to make friends, and remove him from harmful situations. Luna began her intense search and rescue training at the end of April. After a year, she should receive her certification as a service dog. Being the mom of a special needs child is incredibly challenging, but at the same time rewarding. I always look for the helpers in the community, as raising any child takes a village. I help others when I can by creating early literacy programs for special needs kids at local libraries, fundraising for special needs programs, and being an active member at the Autism Caring Center. Currently, Matteo and I are searching for scholarships and grants for busing and summer camps for special needs kids in our community. I would like to thank the helpers who’ve made independence available to us. We are always searching for help from the community, and have been blessed in so many ways. We continue to spread awareness about autism, and we will look for assistance when it’s needed for us, as well as for other special needs families. n

USC Goes to Hollywood Michael Naizu, USC Class of 2012, is an actor, writer, and producer who recently released Bound for Glory. The first of several projects, his startup, PinkHouse, will unveil the TV pilot over the coming months. Michael made a splash for his role as Josh Jamison in Amazon’s Christmas is Cancelled, one of the most streamed movies during this Michael Naizu (Wilcox) past winter holiday season. Bound for Glory is a half-hour drama-comedy set in modern-day Hollywood that follows Will Reeves (Naizu), an actor struggling 84

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Summer 2022

with his cultural and career identity. First-time filmmaker John Wilcox, USC Class of 2014, directs, composes, and cowrites the pilot. Derik Young, USC Class of 2012 and PinkHouse co-founder, is an executive producer and makes his acting debut as Jayson Rivers, a tech playboy and Will’s childhood best friend. The pilot premiered this past March on Joysauce.com. PinkHouse, a content laboratory that creDerik Young ates elevated faire ranging from TV series to music, is developing Bound for Glory into a series. Michael Naizu (Wilcox) and Derik Young live in Los Angeles. John Wilcox resides in Nashville. Their parents, Mark and Julia Wilcox and Chip and Lynelle Young, are USC residents. n

Profiles

of people with a USC connection

Know of a person to profile? Send information to: Editor,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or

usctoday@usctoday.org

In 2010, Karen Cochenour founded Hair Salon Mélange in Lafayette, California, following her dream to achieve her cosmetology license at age 55. While every other cosmetology classmate was in their early to mid 20s, her dream of making both men and women feel more beautiful outside and in came to fruition during her mid-life. Her passion for hair design began at age ten when she would help her aunt with perms, cleaning, and sweeping the floors in a salon in downtown Elizabeth, Pennsylvania. Fast forward after 25 years as a finance manager at Toyota, an opportunity presented itself to her when the Karen Cochenour 2008 recession took that career away. Instead of collecting unemployment, she decided now was the time to invoke her backup plan—a plan that would be fun, interesting, and constantly changing, and could never be taken away from her. She decided that her passion and skill was in the salon industry. After receiving advice from a friend, Karen became certified by OUIDAD of NYC to specialty cut and style naturally curly hair. She found it exciting, as she watched the pleased faces of her clients when she transformed their looks. Over the years, she has taken additional hair cutting, coloring, straightening, and styling certified classes, worked in Las Vegas and New York at hair shows assisting with model preparation, and spent time as an instructor in a private hair college. Karen considers her clients to be like family, relationships that she’s built over the years and that she expects will last forever. When she decided to leave California and move back to Pittsburgh, it was a very difficult decision for her. Now in her salon, Salon Mélange, located on Route 19 in McMurray, Karen, a resident of Upper St. Clair, welcomes clients to feel comfortable and secure while they are in her chair. “One of the most important things people forget is that as a service person, you need to listen to what your clients want and not what you want for your clients,” she says. Karen is now studying to become a certified scalp therapist, a service that massages the scalp to stimulate the growth and promote healthy, stronger hair. “Maintaining the integrity of the hair and scalp is important when offering a hair thinning regime and high quality products from Rene Furterer,” says Karen. She gives great instruction for her “curlies” (as she calls them), so they know how to style and maintain their own natural lovely locks.

Visit Salon Mélange in McMurray’s Turnberry suites. See ad on page 55.

Santino Tomasetti, USCHS Class of 2010, has spent the last 11 years traveling and performing from coast to coast. After high school graduation, he attended AMDA College and Conservatory for the Performing Arts in New York and Los Angeles, with a focus on musical theatre. While in Santino Tomasetti college, he began releasing music with fellow USC graduates Kevin Lynch and Scott Boyer under the band name “TT and The Racers.” After releasing two albums with The Racers, Santino began to focus on producing his own music, with guidance from studio engineers at Atlantic Records in Los Angeles. In 2017, he traveled halfway across the country once again to perform in Branson, Missouri, where he currently resides. In 2022, you can find him in several shows at the King’s Castle Theatre, performing things from 80s rock, to disco and funk, to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, six days a week, both days and nights. With what time is left after performing nine to 15 shows a week, Santino has spent the last five years crafting his debut solo album, which will be released around Memorial Day this year. Though Santino has a wide array of influences in music, the album has a throwback feel with modern drive. Genres that include blues, folk, soul, and R&B are present in the singles that have already been released.

To hear what’s been released or to tune in for the full album, search for Santino Tomasetti on any streaming platform or follow him on social media @Santinosings.

Ella Gans, USCHS Class of 2020, was featured in a short film created by the Blackburn Center and East Suburban Citizen Advocacy, located in Westmoreland County. Titled Abuse: There is Support, the video aims to support individuals with disabilities who have been impacted by abuse. This video is the first in a series of short videos on the topic of abuse. Ella was drawn to the project because of its important subject matter. “I’ve seen the effects abuse can have on a person,” said Ella. “It’s awful, and if there’s anything I can do to help people understand the topic, I want to do it.” Ella has been voice acting for the past few years. “I’ve been in a handful of professional projects, like this one,” she said. “I also have a YouTube channel, EllaGVA, that I use to practice my voice acting or post whatever I feel. I hope to make voice acting my full-time job!” Completing her first year at Kenyon College, Ella hopes to major in drama. Ella Gans

Summer 2022

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

LOCAL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY

1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President ..................................... 412-851-0570 American Assoc. of University Women ........................ aauw.org Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club Tom Atkins ............................................................. 412-901-0987 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar ....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Woman’s Club Jaque Balzarini............................................ jbalzar@comcast.net Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward .......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Gordon Mathews ................................................... 412-360-8223 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ............................................................ 412-221-5717 Friends of the Library.............................................. 412-835-5540 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President ...................................... 724-518-9251 Girl Scouts of USC Michelle Wardle-Eggers ........................................ 412-595-7550 uscgirlscoutcommunity@gmail.com Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Rachel Carlson ..................................................... 412-835-2050 hsusc.org facebook.com/hsusc president@hsusc.org League of Women Voters ...................................... 412-261-4284 Lifespan Kim Rollinson .............................................. 412-464-1300, x127 Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com) Laura Murtough ..................................................... 412-478-1736 uscootm@gmail.com Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics “PEAQ” Ken Fibbi, President .............................................. 724-350-7956 kfibbi@verizon.net South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org .............................................. 412-306-8090 South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) .............. 412-854-9120 JCC Pittsburgh ....................................................... 412-278-1975 jccpgh.org South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich ....................................................... 412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Ray Harrington ...................................................... 412-999-0195 Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce Mandi Pryor, Executive Director ............................ 412-221-4100 southwestcommunitieschamber.org mandi@southwestcommunitieschamber.org Spencer Family YMCA Jim Lybarger, Executive Director .......................... 412-833-5600

Town Hall South Janette Clements, Chair ....................................... 412-310-3763 townhallsouth.org Trotwood Manor West Association trotwoodmanorwest@gmail.com United Senior Citizens of USC Lynn Walcoff................................................. 412-221-1099, x655 USC Athletic Association (www.uscaasports.org) Rob York, President, USCAA ........... feedback@uscaasports.org Rec Baseball (Spring)......................................... Nelson Crichton Rich West Travel Baseball (Summer)..................................... Bret Stutzman Mike McKenzie Boys Basketball (Winter)........................................ Jay Sukernek Girls Basketball (Winter)......................................... Mike Barnard Amr El Nokali Football Tackle & Flag (Fall/Spring)..................... Bryan Mathews Softball (Fall/Spring)................................................... Ryan Pope Rec Soccer (Fall).......................................................... Bill Friday Travel Soccer (Fall/Spring)....................................... Steve Gibbs Libby Mascaro Wrestling (Winter)..................................................... Adam Smith USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org)...............................uscbpaofficers@gmail.com USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Brian Schill ........................................................... 412-833-6229 USC Boy Scouts of America Renz Weinmann (Troop 366) ................................. 412-831-8272 Tom O’Brien (Troop 4 )............................................ 412-854-3153 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org) Jen Dalke .............................................................. 412-760-0801 USC Democratic Committee Mary McIntyre, Chair.............................. uscdems01@gmail.com Jasson Fincke, Vice Chair USC High School Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Kelly Powell........................................... kellyepowell@gmail.com USC Hockey Club ................................ president@uschockey.org USC League for the Arts (USCLA) Vi Laux ................................................................... 412-523-1855 USC Library ............................................................ 412-835-5540 USC Newcomer’s Club (www.uscnewcomers.org) ........ uscnewcomersexec@gmail.com USC Parent Teacher Council (PTC) Shanna Caplan, President ......... USCPTCpresident@gmail.com USC Republican Committee Louis Oliverio, Chair .............................. oliverio-louis@msn.com USC Volunteer Firefighters Dan Barr, President ......................................412-835-0660, x100 president@uscvfd.org Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair Linda Altopiedi, Secretary ...................................... 412-260-5610

Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office at 412-833-1600, extension 2284, or email usctoday@usctoday.org if your club or organization’s information needs to be updated, or added to or deleted from our list. Thank you. For an online version of this directory, visit twpusc.org/usctoday and click on USC TODAY Features from the home page. 86

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

SERVING UPPER ST. CLAIR

Churches and Synagogues

Nursery Schools

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

Resurrection Parish St. John Capistran Campus 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-6275 St. Thomas More Campus 126 Fort Couch Road—412-833-0031

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

Ruthfred Lutheran Church 3410 South Park Rd., Bethel Park—412-835-7140

Bethany Lutheran Church 5303 Madison Avenue, Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-835-9221

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

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

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132 Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0405 Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100 Bower Hill Community Church 70 Moffett Street, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-4114

St. George Orthodox Church 3230 Washington Pike, Bridgeville—412-221-2277 St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800 St. Catherine Laboure Roman Catholic Church St. Joan of Arc Campus 6414 Montour St., South Park—412-833-2400 St. Louise de Marillac Campus 320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Brightwood Christian Church 5044 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park—412-835-6703 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153 South Hills Assembly Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-8900 Chabad of the South Hills 1701 McFarland Road, Pittsburgh—412-344-2424

South Hills Church of the Nazarene 5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333

Christ Community Church of the South Hills 2807 Bethel Church Rd., Bethel Park—412-519-4097

South Hills Community Baptist Church 2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313

Christ United Methodist Church 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621

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

Congregation Ahavath Achim (The Carnegie Shul) 500 Chestnut Street, Carnegie—412-279-1566

Temple Emanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Pittsburgh—412-279-7600

Corpus Christi Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213

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

Crossroads Church 1120 Boyce Road—412-494-9999

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

Faith Lutheran Church of Upper St. Clair 80 Bartley Road—412-835-4590 First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700 Good Shepherd Church 110 Hays Road—724-941-9418 (office), 412-5232964 North Way Christian Community Robinson 1050 Campbells Run Road, Carnegie—724-935-6800 Holy Cross Greek Orthodox 123 Gilkeson Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-833-3355 John McMillan Presbyterian Church 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-833-4704 Mt. Lebanon Christian Church 367 Cedar Blvd., Mt. Lebanon—412-531-8554 Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132 Beth-El Nursery School 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168 Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0441 Beverly Heights Christian Preschool 1207 Washington Road—412-561-7200 Christ United Methodist Church Nursery School 44 Highland Road—412-854-4310 First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School Kids 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141 Goddard School 825 Painters Run Road—412-564-3600 John McMillan Preschool 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-833-4704 Kingdom Kids Nursery School 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-6227 Montessori Children’s Schoolhouse 1782 Mayview Rd., Bridgeville—412-257-9717 Montessori Early Childhood Center 2400 Old Washington Road—412-835-3340 Mount Lebanon Montessori 550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-563-2858 Mushroom Family Learning Center 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-1225 Noah’s Ark Preschool-Our Redeemer Lutheran 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-942-6699

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

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

Day Care (Children)

St. David’s Early Learning Center 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-413-8285

Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-1043

St. Louise de Marillac Preschool to 8th Grade 310 McMurray Road—412-835-0600

First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School Kids 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141

St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644

Kid Biz, LLC 3540 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172

South Hills JCC Early Childhood Development Center 345 Kane Boulevard, Pittsburgh—412-278-1786

KinderCare Learning Center 1040 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-831-1888

Temple Emanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Pittsburgh—412-279-7687

KinderCare of McMurray 118 Wilhaven Drive, McMurray—724-941-4579

Westminster Nursery School 2040 Washington Road—412-835-2906

New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661

KinderCare of Mt. Lebanon 1610 N. Highland Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-1953

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467

The Goddard School 655 Painters Run Road —412-564-3600

Peace Lutheran Church 107 Carol Drive, McMurray—724-941-9441

Westminster Child Development Center 2040 Washington Road—412-835-9450

Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-3635

Day Care (Adult)

Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.

Ave Maria Academy Preschool to 8th Grade Bethel Park Campus 134 Fort Couch Road—412-833-1412 Mt. Lebanon Campus 401 Washington Rd—412-341-5444

Prime Time Adult Care, Inc. Alzheimer Day Care 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6661 Seton Center—Brookline 1900 Pioneer Avenue, Brookline—412-344-4777 Summer 2022

If we’ve overlooked your information, have incorrect information, or if you would like your Upper St. Clair facility to be represented in our magazine with an article, please write to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email usctoday@usctoday.org. For an online version of Serving Upper St. Clair, visit twpusc.org/usctoday and scroll down the home page to find it under the USC TODAY Features section.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Advertiser Index

Summer 2022

twpusc.org/usctoday

Advanced Surgical Hospital .......................................................................9

MindBody Yoga + Barre ......................................................................... 49

Affordable Decks & Additions .................................................................. 68

Mister Sewer ........................................................................................... 69

Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ....................................................................... 68

Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................... 68

Ardolino’s ...................................................................................................7

* Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center .............................................................. 47

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh .................................................................. 47

* Pinebridge Commons Associates ............................................................ 45

* Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ... 3

* Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community .......................... 77

* Brookside Lumber ................................................................................... 71

Recon Brewing ........................................................................................ 49

* Calabro Tire & Auto Service ........................................................................9

RE/MAX Select Realty–Amanda Walton................................................... 71

* Coldwell Banker Realty–Lynn Dempsey .................................................. 70

* Rusmur Floors .................................................................. Inside back cover

Coldwell Banker Realty–Dora Rudick ...................................................... 31

* St. Clair Health .....................................................................................2, 44

* Coldwell Banker Realty–South Hills Office .....................Outside back cover

* Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .............................................................. 65

* Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................. 55

* Sesame Inn ............................................................................................. 48

Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 66

South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1

Executor Services .................................................................................... 79

Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ....................................................5

* Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 46

* State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ....................................................... 49

Generator Supercenter of Pittsburgh ...................................................... 70

The Jeff Lagoni Mortgage Team powered by Stockton Mortgage......................................................... Front cover, 10, 11

George Girty Landscape Design .............................................................. 71

The publishers and staff of TODAY thank our advertisers. Your financial support of our publication has allowed us to share community news and stories with our residents for more than 28 years. We appreciate you! Hair Salon Mélange ................................................................................ 55

* Thomas Dance Studio ............................................................................. 46

* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ..................................................................9

Three Rivers Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery ..............................................7

* Howard Hanna–USC Office .............................................. Inside front cover

* Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................... 45

J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ........................ 65

Velveteen Dream Hair Loft, LLC ............................................................... 83

* Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ...................................... 81

* Washington Health System .................................................................... 23

* Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ........................................................ 45

Washington Wild Things ......................................................................... 49

Lewis Music Studio ................................................................................. 47

* Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ............................ 53

* Manalo, Larry E., DMD ............................................................................ 45

Welter, Julie, Realtor® ............................................................................ 23

McQueen Building Co. ............................................................................ 67

Let guide you in 2022 with great ad placement. Upcoming fall guides include Educational Resource and Health & Wellness.

Place your ad in our community’s go-to publication.

Contact 412-833-1600, x2284.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2022

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SUMMER 2022 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Inaugural Year for the Bocce Team