SUMMER 2023 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Summer 2023 Guides

Home & Garden

Summer Activities

Robbins Bobbitt

Associate Broker

Bonnie Bagay

Marie Mageras

Del Burrell

Diane Horvath

Kathy McCloskey Renee Ringer

Kerrie Constantini

Frankie Kunselman

Shannon Rosenberry

Lauren Ganoe

Dana Logan

Jen Schalk

Janet Hensler

Chris Longenecker

Wendy Vespa

Suzy Voss

Jody Yurcich

Izzy Zehner

Beth Thomas

Limauro, M.D.

Mark Cedar, D.O.

Nicholas Bellicini, D.O.

Xuong Lu, M.D.

Jungmin Leo Lee, M.D.

Lisa Oliva, D.O.

Robert J. Pagano, M.D.

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

Personal. Best.

What are you striving for today?

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 Pittsburgh Region. 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.

stclair.org

Expert care from people who care.

Edward J. Ruane, M.D.

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

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

Fall 2023 edition includes Educational Resource and Health & Wellness guides.

Deadlines:

Articles–June 22

Advertising–June 26

Website: twpusc.org/usctoday

Email: usctoday@usctoday.org

@usctoday

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.

Subscription Information

If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s official magazine, please send $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

Dr. Daphna Gans, President

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine dedicated to promoting the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year marks 29 years of our publication.

The 114th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools

Steering Committee

Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager

Paul K. Fox, School District Representative

Editors and Staff

Terry Kish, Editor-in-Chief

AnneMarie Kopach, Associate Editor

Sarah Beitler, Office Manager, Marketing Executive, Advertising Executive

Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Student Interns

Emily Barrie

Maanasa Reddy

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Fall 2023 issue and will be published in August 2023. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to:

Editor

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Article Information

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

Advertising Information

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

Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Emily Barrie (intern & YWG), Josh Beitler (YWG), Cindy Brophy, Marc Chlebowski, Lauren Costello, Jason Daugherty, Lynn Dempsey, Lindsay Dill, Tim Gagne, Christian Gmiter, Kelly Gyurina, Becki Lewis, Jay Lynch, Geoff & Christine McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Kathy Morrison, Maanasa Reddy (intern & YWG), Haley Roberts, Gary Schafer, Mary Lynne Spazok, Richard Till, Kerry Turner, Tina Vojtko, and Thomas Yochum. 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 114th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair.

Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1820 McLaughlin Run Road

Township Board of Commissioners

Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large

Jennifer A. Schnore, Vice President Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1

Barbara L. Bolas

Kelly P. Hanna

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.

Michael R. Mascaro

Angela B. Petersen

Hallie H. Snyder

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

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

Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284

Fax: 412-851-2592

Email: usctoday@usctoday.org

Township: 412-831-9000

School District: 412-833-1600

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

Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844

Copyright © 1994–2023. All rights reserved.

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

A Summer Note From the Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski

The days are longer, the grass is greener, and the temperatures are warmer—summer is right around the corner! TODAY welcomes the season with this, our summer edition.

For many residents, Upper St. Clair’s Community Day marks the unofficial start of summer. Join your neighbors on May 20 for a day filled with activities for all ages. Turn to page 22 for a list of the day’s events, including the always popular Community Foundation duck race.

Upper St. Clair’s parks are one of our greatest resources. If you haven’t visited recently, turn to our parks guide and make plans to enjoy an old favorite or to discover a new park. In addition to our abundant green space, the township’s recreation department and library have lots of events and programs to keep you and your family engaged this summer. Discover their offerings and learn more about this place we call home by reading our township section.

With the end of the school year rapidly approaching, it’s a hectic time in the district schools! From graduation and prom at the high school to field days at the elementary level, our students and staff are busy learning, giving, and doing amazing things every day. Be sure to read about their awards and accolades in the school district section.

Our volunteer writers have provided a variety of stories, including a “cool” piece about the Frozen craze and an article about a sailing trip that turned into a humorous adventure! Included in this issue is our Home & Garden guide, a great resource for your summer projects, and our Summer Activity guide, which can help you with a listing of local camps and activities.

We hope that your summer provides time for rest and relaxation, and perhaps your own adventure! Be sure to capture your good times and send your stories and photos to TODAY. We would welcome sharing your saga in a future edition.

See you in the fall!

Sincerely,

Township Manager

Sincerely,

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Proud

Mason Tupta is a physical therapist and a business owner, but the title that might fit him best is healer. When he opened Direct Physical Therapy LLC in Castle Shannon in 2019, his vision was to change the way people across the tri-state area view and receive physical therapy. Almost four years later, patients have embraced his unique approach and upbeat personality. His practice is thriving, and that growth has prompted a move into larger quarters.

“We just moved in December and are right below the old clinic,” says Tupta, describing his new location just downstairs from the previous offices at 300 Mt. Lebanon Boulevard in Castle Shannon.

“We were on the second floor at about 800 square feet in the previous space, and now we are storefront at 2200 square feet.”

Square footage, however, is not the only kind of growth Tupta envisions. “We were limited with space up there as to how much we can grow, and our long-term goal is to create an environment more therapists and patients are looking to join.”

Tupta earned his doctorate in physical therapy at Duquesne University, is a certified manual trigger point therapist, and is certified in dry needling through MyoPain. His ongoing studies include manual physical therapy through Maitland-Australian Physiotherapy, and electrical dry needling and spinal manipulation through the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy. Much of his early professional experience came in Atlanta, Georgia, under Dr. Robert Duvall, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT,

Direct Physical Therapy Growing Its Vision and Practice

Kristin Emery

and in Naples, Florida under Dr. John Pierce, DPT, OCS, COMT, CMTPT/DN, where physical therapists offer an eclectic approach to physical therapy.

“Manual physical therapy is the highlight of our business,” Tupta says. “Many places offer more exercise-based physical therapy which works well for a lot of patients. But it is also not enough for just as many.”

More of a hands-on approach

Nearly all of Direct Physical Therapy’s treatments include some sort of skilled manual physical therapy. Tupta describes that as “skilled hand movements and skilled passive movements of joints and soft tissue. If you have a knee problem, we look at the mechanics of your ankle/foot as well as the hip; the joints above and below to see how they may be affecting that issue. There are a lot of manual techniques that we can use to restore joint function, help with strength, and help decrease pain.”

Treatment does involve therapeutic

exercise, but Tupta believes the highlight and key to his growth is the physical touch.

“That’s what people are looking for,” he stresses. “They’re looking for the physical touch aspect of manual physical therapy. We have very positive feedback after just the initial visit. I believe that when the patient realizes they are in good hands, it helps the healing process significantly.”

Incorporating more hands-on, manual physical therapy in addition to therapeutic exercise is just the start. Tupta also frequently includes dry needling as part of an overall treatment plan. Dry needling (also known as trigger point or myofascial needling) is a conservative treatment for chronic and acute pain and can be used by physical therapists as part of a larger treatment plan.

“We call it dry because there’s no medication involved,” Tupta explains. “It’s a small sterile monofilament needle.” Dry needling was first introduced in 1979 when Czech physician Karel Lewitt noticed the

Dr. Mason A. Tupta PT, DPT, CMTPT / DN

positive effect the needle alone has in pain relief. Dry needling has to be performed by a medical provider such as a physician, physical therapist, or chiropractor. It focuses on releasing trigger points, which are bands of dense contracted muscle tissue that can cause pain.

“Once we define those, we insert the fine needle into the muscle and perform ‘piston’ type movements or apply electrical stimulation to it,” he explains. “The idea is we’re trying return normal muscle function to the excited and irritable bands of tissue. If you have trigger points, the muscle is compromised, there’s less blood flow to it and an array of chemicals correlated to both localized and radiating pain.”

Direct Physical Therapy offers dry needling for patients with chronic and acute pain and musculoskeletal issues like pain in the shoulders, neck, hip, back and feet. Paired with electrical stimulation, manual manipulation, and exercise, it can offer patients substantial pain relief.

Providing direct access

When Tupta was thinking of a name for his new practice, he settled on an obvious choice—Direct Physical Therapy—with inspiration coming from the fact patients can access treatment “directly” often without needing a prescription for therapy. It’s a change from the way physical therapy has traditionally been offered in Pennsylvania, which always required the process to start with a physician visit. Pennsylvania and many other states have legalized “direct access” to physical therapy, meaning most

insurances do not require a physician referral to access it. Tupta sees that as a game changer.

our patients can see. It really gives patients a true provider network to ensure they get the most optimal care for their time and dollar—it’s terrific.”

“Patients do not need to go see their primary care physician first, they can come directly to a doctor of physical therapy to be evaluated and treated,” he says. “But I want to be clear, many times there are cases where a referral to a medical doctor is needed, and in those scenarios, we maintain a reputable network with other physicians

Direct Access aligns with Tupta’s vision for physical therapy. “My main goals are to first, change the way the community views and receives physical therapy and to provide opportunity for other physical therapists that are like me and want to treat under this model,” he says. “I want to change how people view the profession. We’re often thought of last. My goal is to educate the public to think of us more as a first option in healthcare.”

His approach is already garnering a growing following with patients enjoying life-changing results. “I’ve had people cry in front of me after successful treatments that lived with chronic pain for years and years and years,” says Tupta. “I cannot begin to express how many patients have told me they have never received physical therapy the way we provide it at Direct Physical Therapy. Some patients are a little more complex, and they need more of an in-depth kind of specialized treatment plan. I think that’s what we do very well here.”

“Hands-on manual therapy is the difference that makes all the difference.”

Dr. Mason Tupta

Dr. Tupta is one of the few physical therapists in the area certified to provide dry needling treatment, which is often used to treat sports injuries, muscle and nerve pain, and even fibromyalgia pain.

Direct Physical Therapy provides individualized therapy treating an array of orthopedic surgeries. Manual therapy techniques in combination with supervised exercises result in optimal outcomes from surgical procedures.

Preventative sports medicine services statistically decrease the risk of injury by facilitating proper training in the off-season, and include ACL tear prevention, tendon strengthening, running analysis, and throwing and pitching programs.

Direct Physical Therapy is located at 300 Mt. Lebanon Boulevard, Suite 7 Pittsburgh, PA 15234. Contact them at 412-207-7612 or at directphysicaltherapypgh@gmail.com.

Some Like It Cold

Thomas Yochum

Critics might decry them as skeptics, climate deniers, or, worse yet, blissfully unaware toddlers, but my children don’t believe in global warming! They live in a permanent Ice Age, absent of Ice Age. Far from the shores of Rio or Madagascar, it’s an existence too frigid for even Snow White. Their entire world is Frozen

The movies, the soundtracks, the merchandise: they can’t get enough. As a child of the ’80s once operating under the grip of the Force, I should have more empathy for obsession. I learned how to pronounce Lando Calrissian’s name alongside my ABCs, slept in Return of the Jedi sheets for an unmentionable number of years, and was well-versed in carbonite long before high school chemistry. Back then, however, VHS tapes would eventually wear thin and not every consumer good was marketed to preschoolers. Now, these two can stream to their heart’s content and eat Elsa Go-Gurt with each trip to the fridge. Nothing cold, nothing Frozen, seems to bother them anyway.

So, how did my otherwise seemingly healthy girls fall under this spell, only to watch their lives spiral like frozen fractals around them? I blamed society. I blamed the media. I blamed my wife! After a few nights on the couch, however, I landed on the unlikeliest of suspects: the man in the frosted mirror. Well, I can report that I’ve experienced some real growth in counseling this spring and my therapist suggested that I share my road to “feeling, not concealing.” I hope the details of my recovery provide some comfort, albeit cold, to those parents experiencing their own winter of discontent.

Having our first-born in 2018, my wife and I naively assumed that Elsa’s cultural reign was on the decline. Frozen wouldn’t

vanish, certainly, but simply be one of many films our daughter might enjoy on occasion. Surely, the animation whizzes at Disney would soon churn out some new phenomenon to match, or even exceed, its popularity. Instead, shortly before the birth of our second daughter (or sequel, as we call her) in 2020, old Walt & Co. also decided to double down and released Frozen II! They just couldn’t “Let It Go.” Armed with a fresh assault of earworms and even more icy magic, this next installment made it ice-crystal clear: “Some Things Never Change.” Our girls were goners. It was all happening so quickly. I wasn’t in denial, per se, but more like that place where you don’t accept what is happening to you.

As my children demanded one viewing after another, fear rose inside of me like the swells of the Ahtohallan. How could I lead them from this Enchanted Forest and back to the “cool” stuff their dad liked? I began with other movies. Some Like It Hot was a nonstarter and Cool Hand Luke was neither cool, nor cold enough for them. Maybe music was the way out? Even those of us on Team Anti-Freeze would concede that the franchise has produced a few catchy tunes. But they wept tiny ice crystals when I played the opening notes to “Heat Wave” by Martha & the Vandellas and wouldn’t even give the Arctic Monkeys or Coldplay a chance. Maybe I could meet them on their frozen turf and introduce some children’s stories? Alas, they tore out half the pages in Eric Carle’s Hot and Cold and gave up on Goldilocks when she passed on the cold porridge.

The inmates were running Arendelle and it was time to assert some control. “For the First Time in Forever” I’d be putting my foot down. Well, actually, it ended up being both feet, which I used to measure their room for matching Elsa and Anna beds. They needed “big girl” beds, but that was it! I’m no enabler.

“Elsa”

“Elsa” and “Anna”

It turns out that I might be a sucker, though, and was soon also employing both hands to repeatedly lug out my wallet: bedsheets and pillowcases, stuffed Frozen characters of every size and shape imaginable (why buy ridiculously-priced Squishmallows when there are insanely-priced Frozen ones available?), dress-up costumes and jewelry, miniature castles and figurines, and, of course, Duplos, Legos, and Really Expensive-os…we have them all! To be honest, there weren’t many bargains in the bargaining stage.

I can’t lie, I was feeling a bit down at this point. As if the mounting bills weren’t enough, I was being triple-cast each night as King Agnarr, Kristoff, and Sven in our living room-productions of the films and I could barely keep my lines straight. My castmates were relentless, having almost literally studied the source material from birth. Here I was, alongside these burgeoning Little Lake phenoms, just mailing in scenes, while Elsa and Anna nailed every inflection and nuance. I was briefly featured as Olaf for some comic relief, but my whole demeanor just kind of “brought the production down,” according to one critic (Mom). There was some short-lived debate over making me Hans, but even the girls could see that might break me. So, mostly I just ended up slogging across the carpet on all fours as Sven, while occasionally letting out sad neighs. I wasn’t really even sure if reindeer neighed, but the directors allowed me some artistic license. By that point we had enough stuffed characters around the house to pick up my slack and the show didn’t seem to suffer from my sidelining.

Honestly, casting got a little competitive. Finding stuffed extras around the house was not a problem. We were up to our carrot-stick noses in Frozen paraphernalia. Our erstwhile home—er stage—had undergone renovations. Once a mix of farmhouse chic and mid-century modern, it could now be charitably described as medieval plastic and Nordic plush. A real “Fixer Upper.” The envy of our neighbors in Weselton. On the upside, residing in a working ice palace has cut down on A/C costs, helping with inflation…and some of the Lego bills.

My family (and therapist) still celebrate my quite unexpected breakthrough. I’d spent the previous weeks resigned to the cold, hard—nay, Frozen—fact that only time might deliver a spring thaw. Internalizing Olaf’s wisdom that things might change “When I Am Older.” But then came Coronation Day or, as you likely know it, kindergarten registration. I had to admit, the thought of my Elsa heading “Into the Unknown” was both exciting and bittersweet. I was beyond acceptance and already nostalgic for what would soon be past. No more homemade plays? No more endless singalongs?

No more Squishmallows? What would Anna and I do if Elsa moved on to new things in the fall? I wanted to be chill, but this potential rejection felt cold. There was only one solution; I began contacting Disney, begging them to release Frozen III! n

The Force: a metaphysical and ubiquitous power in the Star Wars universe.

Lando Calrissian: a reformed smuggler who helps rescue Han Solo in the original trilogy.

Carbonite: a cryonics-adjacent process of suspended animation used in Star Wars

Ahtohallan: a mythical river said to explain the past in Frozen II

Arendelle: the central kingdom in the Frozen franchise and birthplace of Elsa and Anna.

King Agnarr: the former ruler of Arendelle and Elsa and Anna’s father.

Kristoff: an iceman, companion to the reindeer, Sven, and Anna’s love interest.

Sven: a reindeer, companion to the iceman, Kristoff, and lover of carrots.

Olaf: a humorous, animated snowman who helps the Frozen crew along their many travails.

Hans: a scheming prince who villainously tricks Anna and plots to take the throne of Arendelle.

Weselton: a neighboring duchy of Arendelle that is sometimes mispronounced “Weasel Town.”

“Elsa” and “Anna” on “Sven”

St. Clair Shanghai

Jay Lynch

Back in May of 1966, as my eighth-grade year at Fort Couch Middle School was coming to an end, I looked forward to temporary freedom from academic rigors and rules dictated by teachers, coaches, parents, and priests. I planned to enjoy my 13th summer with unstructured fun with friends in our Washington Terrace neighborhood. I also anticipated lazy summer days in a hammock, sipping iced tea and reading Mad magazine. However, my father, Jack, had other ideas.

He and his lifelong buddy, Walt, had recently purchased a 19-foot O’Day Mariner sailboat. In nautical jargon, it was a sloop, meaning it had one mast and two sails. Its small cockpit and cramped cabin made it too small for significant family outings, but it worked well for Jack and Walt as an escape from work and daily life. In today’s lingo, it would be called a floating man cave.

Neither had sailing experience before they bought the boat, but Walt had been a crew member in the Merchant Marine in World War II, which would have come in handy if they ever tried to sail to England loaded with a few thousand tons of war supplies. Their purchase seemed like an odd investment in Pittsburgh, with rivers incompatible with sailing. But, over their wives’ objections, and ignoring their modest-income budgets, they bought it and docked it at newly formed Lake Arthur in Butler County. Since it had a centerboard instead of a fixed keel, it could be hauled to larger lakes like Conneaut or Pymantuning for more adventurous sailing.

Jack was both extroverted and theatrically inclined, so a few months of small-boat sailing went to his head. When at home, he envisioned himself as a Navy captain and enhanced his typical family dinner-table pronouncements with a shrill bosun’s whistle and the words, “all hear this,” followed by unimportant messages, like “tomorrow is trash day.” My mother (Bonnie), sister (Bonnie Anne), and I would roll our eyes and try to ignore him.

However, he got our full attention when he announced that he and Walt were planning a ten-day sailing adventure he called “the quest for uncle Dud’s island.” They had scheduled time off work and planned to haul the boat to Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay in Canada to sail from a port called Parry Sound to a small, remote island owned and inhabited only by my mother’s estranged uncle Dudley.

My mother questioned the wisdom of their plans.

Bonnie: “That’s crazy, Jack! Lake Huron is a huge body of water with big waves, bad weather, and centuries of shipwrecks. You guys have been afraid of sailing in Lake Erie—you can’t handle this.”

Jack: “We’ve got it all figured out. It’s only about 40 nautical miles from Parry Sound to Dud’s island. With favorable winds, the round trip will only take a week.”

Bonnie: “Uncle Dud’s a hermit! That’s why he lives alone on an island. He doesn’t have a phone and doesn’t want visitors. You’ve never met him, and I barely remember him.”

Jack: “We sent him a letter with our anticipated arrival date, so he’ll be expecting us.”

Bonnie: “This is crazy. But I can’t stop you.”

Jack: “Good. We’ll also need a crew to hoist sails, empty bilge, and row us to safety if we’re in peril. So, we’ll be taking Jay, and Walt’s son, Mark.”

My heart skipped a beat as I had no warning of my dad’s decision to include me on the trip. I wanted nothing to do with his quest, and sought maternal intervention.

Me: “Mom, don’t let him take me! I’m your only son. Tell him to take Bonnie Anne.”

Jack: “We can’t take daughters. They say having women aboard is bad luck on the open sea.”

I was surprised that my sister, a strong advocate of women’s rights, didn’t object to the Archie Bunker style snub. But she revealed her true stripes by saying that men and boys were ideal for the job, as annihilation on the jagged rocks of Lake Huron would be a fitting cure for blatant nautical sexism.

I knew my goose was cooked. We had studied Robert Conrad’s Heart of Darkness in English class, so I envisioned the worst—a treacherous boat trip in search of a deranged psychopath. Whether Canada or the Congo, the quest spelled disaster.

On the road to Parry Sound, my father and Walt gave us lessons in nautical jargon and instructions about our duties as crew members on the adventure. We had been on the boat many times before, but only on calm Lake Arthur. Mark, age 11, was a good listener and compliant, while my teenage skepticism made me more worried than open-minded. But we both understood the hierarchy at sea… the crew follows the orders of infallible captains, even if their daily grog leaves them “three sheets to the wind.”

The “quest for uncle Dud” got underway as veteran sailors at the port of Parry Sound snickered while watching four Yankee landlubbers sail into the challenging waters in an undersized boat. It had no toilet (head, in nautical jargon), no water source, no refrigerator, no running lights, no emergency radio and—preGPS—only a map and compass for navigation. Our only means of emergency propulsion was a set of flimsy paddles and a small, six horsepower outboard motor. Our edible provisions included cans of Dinty Moore beef stew, loaves of Wonder Bread, plastic jars of Kool Aid, and, of course, grog for the captains.

Our navigation plan was to sail within sight of the shoreline, but we had to travel many extra miles to avoid thousands of small

The floating man cave

uninhabited islands in Georgian Bay. We also spent a lot of time tacking (zig-zagging) with the prevailing winds. As the saying goes, sailing isn’t for people in a hurry. Walt and Jack decided that our pace of travel would mean that we’d only fulfill the quest by sailing more hours, after sunset—even though sailing at night, without running lights, through rock-filled water is a no-no, even for experienced sailors. Mark and I objected to the plan, but were quickly overruled. We started sailing all day and well into the night.

Early summer nights were cold in Canada, so, for night-sailing, we dressed in winter coats and snow pants, our foul weather gear. My job was to lie on my belly at the bow of the boat with a household flashlight, looking for rocks above the surface and those that were underwater, but close enough to the surface to crush the boat’s hull. Mark’s job was to reel up the centerboard when I alerted him to rocks below the surface. Walt manned the tiller and Jack trimmed the sails. I announced the position of rocks with a simple code. If I yelled, “Rock, 10 o’clock,” Walt knew to steer starboard (to the right).

We made reasonable progress in our first week at sea and, on the sixth day, Walt announced the unscientific “feeling” that we were probably getting close to Dud’s island, even though we were surrounded by islands that all looked similar. That evening, it was windy, cold, and raining, with waves that were high and choppy. However, the captains ignored the dangerous conditions and saw the strong winds as an opportunity to “make the final push to Dud’s island.” So, once again, we sailed through the darkness with the lookout—me—at the bow. At high speed, rocks came at me quickly, so I freaked out when I saw that we were about to make a direct strike with a huge subsurface boulder. I yelled at the top of my lungs, “Rock, 12 o’clock!” We hit it before I got the words out of my mouth, stopping with a jolt as we crashed into the rock.

Walt, Mark, and Jack fell forward to the deck. By grabbing the rigging, I saved myself from going overboard. The rock hadn’t immediately penetrated the fiberglass hull, which was good news; but we were hung up on it—stranded, two hundred yards from the rocky shore of the nearest island. With no radio to send an SOS distress call, we considered abandoning ship and swimming to the island in our foul weather gear. The captains said we’d suffer hypothermia and drown before we made it to safety.

Walt and Jack tried to start the outboard motor, thinking that in reverse, it might be strong enough to pull the boat off the rock. But the motor wouldn’t start. Jack frantically pulled the starter cord repeatedly, as Walt stood behind him. The cord snapped as Jack gave it his strongest pull, and his flying elbow caught Walt in the forehead. He hit the deck with a thud. Jack’s Irish temper got the best of him, cursing Walt for being in the way of his elbow. He saved his best expletives for me, berating me loudly for not doing a better job as a lookout. Then, he said he was going to take matters into his own hands. He made his way to the bow and jumped overboard in his winter coat and ski pants. He stood on the submerged rock, waist deep in freezing water and tried, in vain, to push the boat off

the boulder. He pushed and pushed as I illuminated his efforts with my flashlight. Meanwhile, in the driving rain and darkness at the stern, Walt had risen from the deck, and discovered that Jack forgot to put the motor in the “on” position before trying to start it. He rewrapped the starter cord, flipped the “on” switch, pulled the cord, and bingo, it started.

Without warning Jack or anyone else, Walt put the motor in reverse and gave it full power at the same moment that Jack was giving the boat his most aggressive push from the bow. The dual effort worked. The boat lurched backward, off the rock, but Jack was now chest deep in freezing water, holding the edge of the deck with his fingertips as the boat moved backward into deeper and deeper water. I was truly afraid. Even though he had just cursed me for poor lookout performance, I knew I had to save him. When I grabbed his wrists, I knew the risk: my 120 pounds versus his 250, plus 20 pounds of wet gear. The combination of my fear and his will to live gave us both the strength to hang on to each other’s wrists. I shuffled him from the bow to the stern, where Mark and Walt helped hoist him on deck, like fishermen pulling an injured manatee onto a rescue boat.

When we caught our breath, we agreed that we had barely averted disaster and the quest was over. We would anchor in place, rest for the night and start motoring back to Parry Sound in the morning. I was never so happy to be a quitter.

In the commotion, we didn’t notice that a small motorboat was approaching from the nearby island. It came alongside and its captain asked if we needed help. In unison, we said yes. He offered to tow us the short distance to his island where we could stay the night at his cottage and enjoy warm showers and hot food.

Then, he introduced himself. “My name’s Dudley. You can call me Dud. I heard yelling and cursing from my porch and came to see if I could help.”

We were all astonished, and Jack asked, “Uncle Dud?”

“If you’re calling me uncle, you must be Bonnie’s husband. I got your letter. You’re so late that I thought you couldn’t find my island and had gone back to Pittsburgh.”

To my surprise, Uncle Dud wasn’t introverted at all and invited us to stay with him for two days. He walked us around his island, teaching us about the native fish, animals, plants, and birds and did his best to help us better understand the meaning of passages in his well-worn copy of Thoreau’s Walden. As we departed, he gave me a copy of an aerial photo of his island and cottage that was taken for a Canadian survey (shown above). Far from being the scary psychopath I expected, Uncle Dud was a naturist and political philosopher.

When I returned to school in the fall, I had quite a story to tell in my “what I did this summer” essay. I wrote that adults who make errors of judgement still deserve your best efforts; fathers who call out your incompetence still deserve to be rescued; and people assumed to be anti-social can be the opposite—great teachers with deep respect for all the inhabitants of our planet, including foolhardy sailors in peril. n Feedback and

Aerial photo of Uncle Dud’s island and cottage, Georgian Bay, Canada

Walt and Jack at sail

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

The Outstanding Citizen Award is an award meant for an individual who demonstrates excellent community leadership, makes significant contributions to their community, and shows generosity and unselfishness through their actions.

The recipients of the 2022 Outstanding Citizen Award are Lisa Jenkins and Pamela Tiano. The award is normally given to one individual; however, both of these individuals’ contributions benefit not just the Bethel Park community, but Upper St. Clair as well. Judge Arnoni thought it was best that both recipients be included to be recognized for their contributions, as both represent what this award is all about.

Lisa Jenkins, along with her parents and grandparents, were all born and raised in Bethel Park. Lisa’s father drove a truck and plowed snow throughout the 60s and 70s, and she would ride with him as a kid. In 2010, Lisa got her first truck and received her own plowing route while her dad would ride alongside her. Lisa began her career as a nurse at St. Clair Hospital, working in the medical field from 1980–2005. She met her husband, Jim Jenkins, another lifelong Bethel Park resident, and they were married in 2005. Lisa is a proud stepmother to Jennifer Jenkins, and grandmother to Aiden. Jim helped her pursue her passion for plants and gardening by starting a new business, Flowers N Stuf. After seven years, Lisa joined Jim at his business, Jim Jenkins Lawn & Garden Center, where she acted as general manager and buyer.

Although Lisa had a passion for plants and gardening, she began getting involved in the community. She is currently on the board of the Bethel Park Historical Society where she is active in all events and fundraising. She is also on the board of Bethel Fife & Drum Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and is acting chair of the veterans committee as well as serving as recording secretary. Lisa is the chaplain for the South Park Elks Lodge #2213 and is on the board of the Blackhawk Family relief fund, where she was involved with the flood relief efforts in 2018. Lisa is a committeewoman for the Bethel Park Republican Committee, where she strives to promote patriotism. Lisa is also the coordinator for the national Wreaths Across American (WAA) program. She organizes Bethel Park community participation in the annual WAA event and ceremony at Bethel Cemetery and Peters Creek cemeteries. Lisa participates in the Bethel Park Trolley Beautification Program where she helps maintain the flower beds.

Pamela Tiano was born in Pittsburgh. Her dad was in the military, so her family moved around a lot. Pamela has lived in four different states and three countries. Pittsburgh was always her home base, and when it was time for her to settle down, there was no doubt she wanted to settle in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. In 2012, Pamela and her family moved to Bethel Park. Pamela

2022 Outstanding Citizen Award

is a wife, mother, registered nurse, and dedicated Rotarian. She obtained her associate degree in nursing from CCAC. She is married to her husband, Justin, and they have two daughters, Abigail and Sara. In 2017, she was able to step down from nursing to focus more on being a wife and mom and to be able to give back to her community.

She began working with Diana Napper and her non-profit, Glimmer of Hope, with their mission to fund innovative programs, treatments, technology, and research to prevent breast cancer from advancing. Pamela joined the Rotary in 2019, which opened her eyes to many organizations. Her desire to help more led to her reach out to local Rotary clubs and the Bethel Park School District about starting an Interact Club, a leadership and community-based club for students ages 12–18. With the help of the Bethel Park School District and local Rotary clubs, in 2020, they were able to start the Bethel Park Interact Club. Since the first meeting with only 12 members, it has grown to over 100. The community and club members have benefited from the work they’ve done, which included thousands of hours of community service, food drives, clothing drives, and multiple fundraisers. They have helped organizations such as SHIM, Adopt A Family South Hills, Special Olympics, and St. Clair Hospital Breast Cancer Foundation. Through Interact, Pamela met Sean Rovers and his mother, Maria. Sean is a Bethel Park High School freshman, twotime brain cancer survivor, and Interact Club member. In 2021, Pamela became the treasurer for Smiles from Sean. There are two projects involved with Smiles from Sean: the Smiley Care Package, which can be sent to children/teens with an underlying medical condition throughout the continental U.S.; and the Easter Project, where Easter baskets are created and delivered to children and teens with health issues and their siblings in the metro Pittsburgh region. Money is also raised for families in need of help with incidentals while they are caring for their child in the hospital.

In 2022, Pamela was voted Rotarian of the Year by the Upper St. Clair–Bethel Park Rotary Breakfast Club for her work with the Bethel Park Interact Club and as chair of their biggest annual fundraiser, the Chicken BBQ. As BBQ chair in 2021, they hit an all-time record of more than $72,000 raised for local charities and organizations. Pamela is also a current member of the Bethel Park Rotary Lunch Club, a member of the Bethel Park Historical Society, and volunteers her time with DECA by judging in their local district competitions and state competition in Hershey.

Both individuals were presented with a commemorative medal and certificate, as well as a gift certificate from Bella’s Restaurant. Judge Arnoni thanks all those who participated, and extends a special thank you to Jennifer Jenkins for nominating Lisa, and to Pamela’s daughters, Sarah and Abigail, and her husband, Justin, for her nomination. n

Lisa Jenkins, Judge Ronald Arnoni, Pamela Tiano

Thin Mints. Samoas. Do-si-dos.

These might be some of the first things that come to mind when confronted with the phrase “Girl Scouts.” But as a scout myself, I can tell you there is much more to Girl Scouts than good branding and great cookies!

Like our male counterparts in Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of the USA drives home a value system to instill upon young people, urging them to consider the world they live in and how they can make it better. It acknowledges that if someone is considerate of their community, that consideration extends far past one’s own wants and needs.

These concepts are part of the Girl Scout Promise and Girl Scout Law. Taught to girl scouts almost immediately, these generations-old texts include key words like “serve” and “country.” In fact, the Girl Scout Law prescribes young girls to do their best at being “considerate and caring,” to be “responsible for what I say and do,” and “to respect authority.”

In our world today, it may seem that values such as these have fallen to the wayside. It is easy to become more consumed with one’s appearance and reputation rather than one’s substance of character and impact on the world around them.

But not for scouts.

As I watch my daughter learn the same values as I did, I am beyond proud of the young lady that she is becoming. My fondest scouting memories were traveling with my troop, and this past fall my daughter got to have that memorable experience with hers.

It was a gift to watch her interact with her Girl Scout peers during different activities and fundraising. Last fall, her troop toured the capitol and met with House leaders before visiting Hershey Park.

Certainly, lessons in values and character begin at home; and like most parents, after safety, health, and happiness, moral values are among our family’s priorities. But children also need to be in environments where these values are cemented.

The highlight of my scouting experience came during my senior year of high school when I earned a Girl Scout Gold Award, which is equal to Scouts of America’s Eagle Scout Rank. To earn this recognition, a high-school age girl scout must develop an idea based on a need within their community and develop a strategy and put forth action to address this need.

I have always had a deep love for our country and its ideals. But throughout my high school years, I was concerned that many of my peers didn’t really share my patriotism. I thought, what better way to remind other teens the importance of American citizenship than to remind them how to properly treat our country’s greatest symbol—our flag?

The plan took shape as I created a pamphlet that explained the proper way to display and handle Old Glory, as described in federal flag code. I then circulated it to other youth groups and conducted presentations, discussing why respecting our flag is so important. I was certain to include how to properly

conduct a flag memorial ceremony to respectfully retire old flags.

Girl Scouts of the USA history dates back to 1912. It was started by Savannah, Georgia native Juliette Gordon Low. She appreciated the character building and service lessons taught to young boys through scouting and felt that young girls could benefit from similar lessons.

In 1922, the Girl Scout magazine, The American Girl, included a cookie recipe. An accompanying article estimated the cost of baking seven dozen cookies to be 36 cents and suggested they be sold for 25 to 30 cents per dozen. The idea took off. In 1933, Girl Scouts in Philadelphia sold cookies at gas and electric company pay windows for 23 cents per box of 44 cookies or six boxes for $1.24.

Children can become scouts as early as when they enter kindergarten. Activities they will participate in throughout a scout’s life can range from arts, science experiments, and outdoor skills, to the development of financial literacy and learning how to make a sales pitch.

Of course, making sales is not terribly difficult, when your product is one of the most well-known American foods—the Girl Scout cookie! But even sweeter than a Samoa are the lifelong friendships, memories, and skills that scouting has to offer. n

Girl Scouts from western Pennsylvania visited the state capitol in September of 2022 and met 2021–22 House Speaker Bryan Cutler.

Pure Gold

Mary Lynne Spazok

Congratulations to Srinidhi Rajaganapathy, Lillian Spencer, and Elisa Tucker, members of Upper St. Clair Girl Scout Troop 53680, who earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. This award validates ambitious young women who demonstrate what it takes to be exceptional in today’s challenging world. Think of the Gold Award as a key that opens doors to scholarships, preferred college admission, competitive internship programs, or perhaps translate into advancing a full rank (or two!) in the military.

Criteria includes earning the Girl Scout Silver Award and the Senior Ambassador project. Advisor Jill Spencer asserts, “These ambassadors representing Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) and Upper St. Clair High School, develop and carry out positive solutions to neighborhood issues and beyond. To transform a vision into a sustainable plan with measurable results is the Gold Award benchmark.”

To assure a positive outcome, a troop leader reviews, then discusses, the Gold Award checklist:

• Validate reasons for selecting a project.

• How will your project endure beyond your involvement?

• Estimate overall project expenses and a plan to meet these costs.

• Briefly describe resources, facilities, equipment, and approvals needed.

• What methods or tools will you use to evaluate the impact of your project?

• Outline personal strengths, talents, and skills you plan to develop then act upon.

• Define how you will inform others (e.g., social media, posters, videos, journals) of your project impact.

The Gold Award acknowledges each recipient’s upstanding citizenship, ongoing self-improvement, and power to create a better world. These young women are trailblazing visionaries and role models. They are our future—it is bright! n

Elisa built and placed new habitats for bluebirds, screech owls, American kestrels, and snakes in two local parks. To educate visitors about the animals and their habitats, she developed webpages with infographics written in both English and Spanish. She also placed signs with QR codes in the parks so visitors can easily access her webpage and learn how to help these animals.

Lillian worked with the local YMCA and a Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh’s diversity expert to facilitate moving mural workshops across different YMCA summer camps. These mural panels were painted by Lillian and more than 150 students, with the goal of discussing the importance of diversity education. Through this painting project, educational games, and books, she was able to have an open conversation about the importance of representation in youths’ development of empathy.

To encourage community members to get outdoors and utilize free resources, Srinidhi created historical signs for the Montour Trail, making it more appealing to visitors. She created an informational YouTube video describing her project and the health benefits of being outdoors, and she distributed flyers throughout the area.

Elisa Tucker Upper St. Clair High School

Lillian Spencer Pittsburgh CAPA

Srinidhi Rajaganapathy Upper St. Clair High School

Interns

Thanks

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY thanks two special members of this year’s graduating class. Emily Barrie and Maanasa Reddy have worked as interns for TODAY this past year, sharing interesting articles and photos on a variety of subjects. We are grateful for their contributions and wish them the very best in their future endeavors!

Emily Barrie will be attending the University of Virginia this fall to major in American Studies as she pursues a pre-law track. She is grateful to have been an intern for TODAY this past year and enjoyed connecting with the community at large. She has always loved to write and plans to continue to do so in the future.

Welcome

Miriam Gutensohn, a junior at USCHS, is thrilled to be an intern with TODAY. She is involved in the school’s orchestra and cross-country team. Some of her favorite activities are running, playing the violin, and traveling to Europe with her family. In school, she enjoys math and science classes, but she looks forward to connecting with her community through writing.

Caleb Guarino , a sophomore at USCHS, could not be more excited to start his internship with TODAY. Caleb plays travel inline hockey as well as Varsity Inline Hockey for the district and enjoys helping coach the USC Inline youth program. In addition, he is a varsity cross-country and track runner. His favorite subjects include engineering, biology, and chemistry. He looks forward to engaging with the township and community members during his time with TODAY.

Maanasa Reddy loved her time interning for TODAY. She has always loved writing, and she is forever grateful for this experience. Maanasa plans on studying economics and history in college, and she also wants to continue writing for newspapers.

Welcome New Provider Donald Ravasio, DO

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

To read his full bio visit whs.org/Ravasio

Caleb Guarino

Maanasa Reddy

Miriam Gutensohn

Emily Barrie

Township Commissioners

Daniel R. Paoly President At Large

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-862-5995 2025*

Dante R. Plutko, Jr. Vice President Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-389-5187 2023*

Pamela L. Enck Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 2023*

Todd D. Burlingame Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 724-941-1199 2023*

Richard I. Thomas At Large

Day 412-831-9000 2023*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

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

Township Administration

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

Administrator

Extension

Matthew R. Serakowski 2160

Township Manager

Mark S. Mansfield 2190

Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration

Jonathan Wharton 2380 Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito 2180 Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development

Ed Poljak Director of Information Technology

George Kostelich, Jr. 2710 Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter 2470 Director of Library

Paul Besterman 6560 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

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

2023 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month.

• The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

• The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the C&RC; no meeting in December.

• The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m.

• The Civil Service Board meets as needed.

• The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

• The Library Board meets as needed.

Meetings are held in the Municipal Building’s board room, unless otherwise indicated. Meeting locations are subject to change; refer to the Township website at twpusc.org for more information.

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

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

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

Ed Poljak Director of Information Technology

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’

January 3, 2023

Approximately 12 people attended.

Recognition

• Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation to Jude Pagliai for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.

• Commissioner Paoly presented a Proclamation to Sean Casey recognizing the tenth anniversary of The Miracle League of the South Hills.

The Board

• Closed the Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0007—Southwood Hospital—Nonresidential Planned Development— Tentative Approval.

February 6, 2023

Approximately 17 people attended.

Recognition

• Commissioner Pardini presented Proclamations to Cavan Gable and Jack Miller for each attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.

The Board

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0013—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Conditional Use Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular meeting on March 6, 2023.

• Adopted Bill No. 1-23 Re. PLC23-0001—Southwood Hospital—Nonresidential Planned Development—Final Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 2-23 Re. Transfer of Lot 1 of the Truxton Subdivision Plan from the Township of Upper St. Clair to the Upper St. Clair School District.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1735 Re. Amendment to the Intermunicipal Agreement regarding Sewage Conveyance in the Deerfield Manor Sewershed.

Approval of Contracts:

Public Works Vehicles

• Cleveland Brothers

$190,617 Murrysville, PA One (1) Caterpillar 920 Wheel Loader

March 6, 2023

Approximately seven people attended.

The Board

Meetings

• Approved Decision USC-PD 1-2023 Re. PLC220007—Southwood Hospital—Nonresidential Planned Development—Tentative Approval.

• Closed the Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0012—Boyce Road Residences—Planned Residential Development— Tentative Approval.

• Approved Decision USC-PD 2-2023 Re. PLC220012—Boyce Road Residences—Planned Residential Development—Tentative Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1733 Re. Implementation of Act 57 of 2022.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1734 Re. Approval of the Reappointments of Dwight D. Ferguson and Steven Gibbs to the Zoning Hearing Board.

• Laurel Auto Group

$53,920 Windber, PA One (1) Ford F600XL Super Duty 4x4 Cab & Chassis

• Approved the following Reappointments to Various Boards/Commissions of the Township of Upper St. Clair: Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board—

Three Year Term

Michael P. McDonnell

Glenn Avick

Denis Flaherty

Civil Service Board—Three-Year Term

P.J. Murray III

Library Board—Three-Year Term

Robert G. Ontolchik

Planning Commission—Four-Year Term

Jake Polochak

Adam McGurk

David Wade

• Hunter Truck Sales $102,733.08 Butler, PA One (1) 2024 International Model HV507 4x2 Cab & Chassis

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0013—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Conditional Use Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 3-23 Re. PLC22-0013—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Conditional Use Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1736 Authorizing the Execution of the Cable Communications Franchise Agreement Renewal with Verizon.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1737 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.

Approval of Contracts:

• Mele & Mele & Sons, Inc. $3,615,000 Braddock, PA 2023 Annual Street Resurfacing (unit price contract) with:

Alternate #1—C&RC Parking Lots

Alternate #2—Paving existing handicap spaces

Alternate #3—Township Building parking lots

Alternate #4—Sports courts at Wiltshire and Tustin Parks

• Russell Standard Corp. $38,000

Valencia, PA 2023 Street Crack Sealing (unit price contract)

• Laurel Auto Group, Inc. $85,670 Windber, PA ($42,835 each)

Two (2) 2023 Police Ford Interceptor SUVs

• Landscape Structures, Inc. $74,502.65

Delano, MN

Playground Equipment at Byrnwick Park

Eagle Scouts Cavan Gable and Jack Miller with their parents and Commissioner Pardini

Rob York presented a check from the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association to Commissioner Plutko during the Board of Commissioners’ January informational and general affairs meeting.

Planned Activities

Community Day 2023 kicks off on Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m. at the USC Veterans Park.

Get messy with the library’s Make a Mess activities! Stop by Municipal Park between 11 a.m.–4 p.m. and try a variety of process-art activity stations.

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 from noon–3 p.m., for a variety of activities including Knap’s Battery re-enactors.

The Gilfillan Farm will be open noon–4 p.m. Come learn more about what goes on at Gilfillan Farm and enjoy the Historical Walk around Gilfillan Trail.

In addition, Horses with Hope will be on site at Gilfillan Farm with their animals.

The Petting Zoo 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 Toddler Trot is back! Stop by Founders Field at 2 p.m. to watch the cutest race in town!

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. n

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:

• Eisenhower Elementary

• Gilfillan Farm

• Westminster Church South Lot

• Fort Couch Middle School

• USC High School

• Fire Station

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 2023 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank our kind and generous patrons for their financial and in-kind support of Community Day 2023!

Details

test Dog C test

Rules

Special thanks to:

Upper St. Clair School District: Brooke Tarcson, Student Activities

Steve Torquato, Student Activities

Student Volunteer Chairs:

Overall: Maura Joyce

Entertainment: Kayla Lumish, Noah Levine

Information Booth: Sarah Robert, Lauren Starr

Opening Ceremony: Colin Eccher, Maura Joyce

Parade: Charlie Stohl, Yoshna Venkataraman

Parking Lots: Landon York, Bobby Mayberry

Publicity: Leria Miles, Reilly Caslin, Greg Boughner, Ben Seewald

Toddler Trot: Freshmen, Fort Couch Student Council

3 wa register

Township of Upper St. Clair:

Department of Recreation and Leisure Services

Public Works Department

USC Police Department

USC Volunteer Fire Department

Alex Pepke, USC Communications Coordinator

Mitchell Montani, USC Public Access Coordinator

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: Bill Findle, Karen East

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 family 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 was updated last year. Visit twpusc.org/ recreationcenter for more information about all our Township parks. n

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 lighted tennis courts (pickleball lines added), 2 lighted bocce courts

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)

Beadling Soccer Field

3.36 acres soccer field

Boyce Field

1 acre baseball field

Boyce Mayview Park

475+ acres

1 baseball field (rentable), 1 baseball/softball field (rentable), Multi-purpose field (rentable),

1 Miracle League baseball field, All fields have sports lighting

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 Clemente Bridge, water misting tree and misting fountain, piano, and a NEOS 360 electronic aerobic game

Dugouts, batting cage, bleachers

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)

Brookside Park

3.7 acres

Byrnwick Park

7.05 acres

Clair Park

2.2 acres

Gilfillan Park 59.57 acres

1 lighted basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

1 basketball court

Play unit and swing set

Play unit with slide and swing set

Natural area

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

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

Play unit and swing set

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,

Marmion Field

11.32 acres

Morton Complex

7.5 acres

Municipal Park

29.75 acres

1 soccer field, 1 lighted baseball field

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

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

Play unit

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

Walking path, water fountain, walkway lighting

Shelter and bleachers, 2 water fountains

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

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

Ravine Park

10.51 acres

Trotwood Park

8 acres

Tustin Park

6.52 acres

Veterans Park

Wiltshire Park

11.2 acres

1 basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

1 basketball court

Play unit and swing set

Play unit and swing set

Natural area

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

Asphalt/wood chip walking trail around park

Visual presentation of military history, benches, lighting

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

Poured-in-place rubber and synthetic turf safety surface playground built in the hillside, 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

Restrooms, pavilion, seating area, grass play area, walkway lighting, water fountain

United Senior Citizens

The Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens started 2023 with a diverse lineup of activities on their calendar! Their January “Let’s Go to Mexico” event featured delicious food and fun with friends. In February, things got a little “wild” when falconer David Frederick spoke to the group about this ancient sport of kings. Also in February, Kitty Leatham, a USC United Senior Citizens member, presented “Your Healthiest Self is Waiting for You,” promoting the benefits of healthy organic eating.

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

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

Senior Spotlight

USC Recreation and Leisure Services

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.

James Talerico has a variety of interests. Hiking and backpacking are his primary sports and activities. In 2022, he hiked the 96-mile West Highland Trail through the highlands of Scotland and previously walked the 500-mile trek from southwest France to the town of Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Woodworking is another hobby, with several pieces of furniture to show for his efforts, including a complete set of office furniture. James is active in the 4 Winds BMW motorcycle club, and has gone on some long trips, including one from his home in Upper St. Clair to Fairbanks, Alaska and back. Travel is a passion, and James has visited many countries, including Argentina, Thailand, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Germany. n

USCSD Gold Card

Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission.

To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

ACCESS Paratransit and Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card

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

Photo credit: Mary Oppel and Joyce Soung

Jim Talerico

Join the Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens at the MAC on Community Day for bingo, baked goods, soda, and their popular root beer floats!

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

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.

• Any tree that is dead or diseased is considered a hazardous tree and needs to be removed in a safe manner in order to prevent potentially fatal accidents from occuring.

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.

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

Spotted lanternfly infestation of a tree trunk

2023

THE ALTERNATIVE TO DUMPSTER RENTALS!

The Bagster® bag is Waste Management’s easiest cleanup solution for remodeling projects, moving preparation, landscaping and home/garage cleanup.

The bags are simple to set up and strong enough to hold up to 3,300 lbs. of debris or waste. It’s the right size for renovations or home projects that don’t require a full-size dumpster.

Bagster® bags can be purchased at Home Depot, Lowes, and various hardware stores. For details and pricing information, contact Waste Management at 1-877-789-2247 or online at thebagster.com.

RESTRICTIONS

2023 Trash–Recycling

Holiday Collection

Holiday Collection Date

Memorial Day Week Thursday, June 1, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, June 2 for regular Thursday collection

July 4th Week Thursday, July 6, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, July 7 for regular Thursday collection

RECYCLE RIGHT

Special Collections and Drop Off Events

E-Cycling (Electronics Recycling)

Saturday—May 13, June 10, July 8, and August 12 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

C&RC, 1551 Mayview Road

E-cycling is the recycling of electronic equipment—anything with a cord, including large electronic appliances. There will be a $40 charge for any appliances containing refrigerant. No non-electronics in wooden cabinets, such as organs and pianos. No personal items such as curling irons, shavers, vacuum cleaners, carpet scrubbers, smoke detectors, batteries, etc.

Yard Waste Drop Off (Paper Bags)

Saturday, May 13, June 10, July 8, August 12

10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Boyce Compost Site, Boyce Road

Yard waste drop off includes leaves, plants, garden residue, chipped shrubbery, tree trimmings, and leaf/grass clipping mixture. Yard waste is to be in compostable paper bags. Limbs are to be bundled and no longer than 48 inches long and three inches in diameter.

Retire Old Glory

C&RC Lobby

Tattered, torn, and faded American flags can be dropped off in the Retire Old Glory bin. Retired flags will be properly disposed of by local scout troops.

Glass Recycling

5000 Oxford Drive, Bethel Park

Glass recycling dumpster for bottles, jugs, and jars is located at Village Square Mall (upper level in the parking lot near Kohl’s).

Refer to twpusc.org for specific information and/or possible changes.

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.

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, aboveground, 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.

From the Director’s Desk

Christian Gmiter, Library Director

Come in and use your new library!

First and most importantly, thank you for your patience during our construction. Since the work began, we’ve made significant improvements to your USC library, including:

New Kids and Teens Library

Now on the second floor, the new Kids and Teens Library is a beautiful space that is warm and inviting for families and children of all ages. My favorite aspect of the redesign of this section is that we are now a single floor library space. The new Kids and Teen section not only provides space for teens and tweens to browse for books and gather, it provides the needed connection between the Juvenile and Adult libraries. The Adult staff gets to enjoy the children’s presence more than when the Children’s room was on the third floor. Now, we can better accomplish our ultimate goal of nurturing life-long readers and library users!

Adult department makeover

The Adult department is now fully open on both sides—fiction and non-fiction. It received a much-needed makeover with new paint, carpet, lighting, shelving, and office space. Architects moved study rooms to the third floor, so the Adult department is bigger—with ample tables and chairs for studying, reading a book, newspaper, or magazine. Working on your laptop will be better, thanks to a stronger Wi-Fi signal throughout the building.

We continue to offer public computers to our patrons in the Adult area on the fiction side, inexpensive printing, a puzzle swap, and a games corner where you can borrow board and card games.

We’re also offering library-led book discussion groups, more in-person events, and are welcoming back groups who like to meet at the library in one of our reservable spaces on the first floor.

Also back in the spotlight is our Friends of the Library book corner, where you may purchase gently-used books for a greatly reduced price. Still to come...

In the future, we’ll open a new rooftop garden space for patrons to enjoy. Watch for more information about that in a future column in this publication.

What hasn’t changed...

What remains the same in our new space is our collective love for reading, our commitment to bring you, our patrons, a solid collection of materials that reflects the interests of our community—and our welcoming, helpful staff who are happy to serve you! We hope to see you soon! n

Until next time, Chris

Photo credit: Carla Roehner and Anne Kopach

Library Staff

Spotlight on: Shylu Venkatesh Secretary to the Library Director

Q: How long have you been a library employee?

A: 17 years

Q: What was your first position in the library?

A: Library assistant

Q: What are your responsibilities in your current position?

A: I maintain library personnel files, complete weekly schedules, and process new employee information. I order and maintain inventory, handle routine correspondence, create promotional materials and displays, write news releases, maintain the events calendar, and coordinate various departmental functions. I also work the circulation desk as needed, provide support to the Friends of the Library organization, and perform any tasks required by the director.

Q: What are you currently reading?

A: Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

Q: Who are your favorite authors?

A: Khaled Hosseini, Louise Penny, and John Grisham

Q: What are your favorite fiction genres?

A: Literary, Mystery, and Thriller

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

A: I like to sing and listen to South Indian classical music and Indian movie songs. I also like to listen to pop/rock and Western classical and new age music. I enjoy yoga and gym workout classes regularly as well. All these things help me in keeping my mind and body healthy.

Q: What do you love most about the library?

A: My work, my co-workers—and our patrons, of course!

Q: People may be surprised to know that…

A: (laughing) I’m a very competitive person in the area of my interest. I don’t like to give up on things without a fight.

Try-It Tuesday with Judé Ernest

Kerry

Turner

Prior to 2020, I enjoyed attending handson programs at the Upper St. Clair Library, such as Making Friends and Zentangle. I tried some online classes during COVID, but it wasn’t the same. The comradery and the idea sharing in the moment didn’t come through the same as it did with my library art friends. Imagine my surprise when I realized that the library classes had indeed started back up—and that I had missed a few already! Immediately, I signed up for the next few sessions of their new program, Try-it Tuesday.

Try-it Tuesday is a monthly program presented by Judé Ernest, an artist who specializes in felting. Judé embraces art and creativity in all forms. Each month, she teaches a new craft with new techniques and materials. This “make-it and take-it” program is specially developed to provide the fundamentals for creating a variety of crafts using supplies found around the house, like old t-shirts, magazines, and discs. Traditional supplies like glue and paint are used too, but reusing/recycling old items and turning them into something special is one of the goals of the program.

Judé comes prepared with the main examples and needed supplies, but the goal isn’t to make something perfect. We have the advantage of learning from her experiences, but expand on her ideas to create our own items. Judé hopes that these classes inspire us to branch out and use our newly learned techniques to expand on what we love to do. For example, ideas can come from painting when you are a weaver; they can come from sewing when you might be a woodworker.

Whatever your skills set, the bigger your toolbox, the more you’ll have available to express yourself later. When the class ends, sometimes you will walk away giggling, saying, “I love what I made.” Sometimes you will learn a technique that might fold into something you already do, while other times you might not enjoy the activity and hence, you will never do it again.

Either way, Judé believes there is art in all of us, if we only open up and try. She wants people to find their expression, their interpretation, and their uses, and this is a wonderful environment to do that. Thank you, Upper St. Clair Library, for bringing Judé to us. n

Shylu Venkatesh

Get Organized for Good

Zoom Event

Wednesday, May 10 6–7 p.m.

Join professional organizer Sandy Kutchman of Discover Organizing. This presentation is for those dealing with the challenge of too much stuff in their homes. Learn ways to clear possessions from your living spaces and how to keep on top of clutter with tasks to do daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly.

Not So Silent: The Silent Movie Stars That Shook Up Hollywood’s Beginnings

Zoom Event

Wednesday, May 17 6–7 p.m.

Film history writer Emily Kubincanek presents the larger-than-life personalities of some of the greatest stars of Hollywood’s Silent Era.

Robert Naipar: The French and Indian War—the Forbes Campaign

In-Person Event

Wednesday, May 24 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Historian Robert Naipar speaks about the Forbes Campaign during the French and Indian War. In 1758, this campaign aimed to take Fort Duquesne, located at the Fork of the Ohio.

Handouts will be available to French and Indian War sites that are open to the public and within an easy day’s travel. As a reenactor, Robert portrays a British engineer, during the French and Indian War, 1754–1762.

Adult Programs

the city’s 550 nickelodeons—small movie theaters that continuously ran film shorts— after complaints about indecent material being projected onto the screen. In this presentation, CMU English professor Kathy Newman will give a brief history of film censorship over the last century. The presentation will consider the ways in which films have been treated differently than other media, such as newspapers and books, and will also consider the ways in which the internet and the streaming era have changed what viewers are allowed to see.

Water Safety Today

In-Person Event

Saturday, June 3 2–4 p.m.

Join USC Recreation Center aquatics director Chris Biswick for a two-hour class that focuses on teaching participants how to recognize, prevent, and respond to emergencies—in, on, or around the water. A certificate of completion is issued at the end.

Meal Prepping Tips

In-Person Event

Tuesday, June 6 12–12:45 p.m.

Join Case-Specific Nutrition for a fun and informative discussion. Meal preparation does not need to be tedious or time consuming. Learn more and save valuable time in the kitchen.

James Webb Telescope

Zoom Event:

Wednesday, June 7 6–7 p.m.

Stream Study with Allegheny County Parks

In-Person Event

Thursday, June 8

11:30 a.m.–1p.m.

Discover the different macroinvertebrates that live in our streams. Macroinvertebrates are the decomposers that live in waterways and keep the streams clean, while also providing a valuable food source for many fish and birds. Participate in a stream study, collecting and identifying many of these species while learning about how water quality affects these species and how they are used as water quality indicators.

Participants will be in the water collecting specimens—appropriate clothing/ footwear required. This is a summer seasonal program. Meet at South Park—Park below Stevens Shelter: https://goo.gl/maps/dFtgH9FCatuie8ky5

Home Pool Safety

In-Person Event

Thursday, June 8 4:30–5 p.m.

Join Cary Johns from the Upper St. Clair C&RC for a short presentation on home pool safety, with information to keep home pool owners and apartment pool users’ families and guests safe around pools.

Keeping Memories: Photo Organizing 101 Zoom Event

Wednesday, June 14 6–7 p.m.

Freedom of the Screen: The History of Film Censorship in the 20th/21st Centuries

Zoom Event

Wednesday, May 31 6–7 p.m.

On Christmas Eve in 1908, New York City mayor George McClellan shut down

Join Don Miller as he explores the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s ambitious scientific endeavor to discover the secrets of the universe. Webb will build on the legacy of previous space-based telescopes to push the boundaries of human knowledge even further. This presentation will review what this telescope is and its scientific objectives, plus look at the images from this next-generation space observatory.

Do you have boxes of photos from your parents? A computer or phone full of thousands of photos of your children or pets? Is it okay to ever throw away a photo from the past? You don’t have to keep all your printed photos—just the ones that you consider the most meaningful. Presented by certified professional photo organizer Nathan Yesko of Discover Organizing, learn tips for how to sort through and organize years of memories, whether that be printed photos, memorabilia, digital photos, slides, tapes, or reels. Yesko shares tips on how to decide which and how many photos to keep, what photos to discard, how to store photos safely, and more.

Adult Programs

Joshua Bellin, Author Visit and Book Signing

In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 21 6:30–8 p.m.

The Upper St. Clair Township Library welcomes science fiction writer Joshua David Bellin. He will speak about how he sets his fiction in real places and read from his novel Myriad, a time travel murder mystery that takes place in Pittsburgh in the year 2037. He welcomes questions from attendees, and he apologizes in advance to Pirates fans for moving the team to Nashville.

Better Backyard Bird Feeding with the Audabon Society

In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 28 6–7 p.m.

Want to attract more birds to your yard? This program explains the dos and don’ts behind backyard bird feeding, and tells you what the experts do to attract more birds to their yards. Participants will also learn about Project Feeder Watch and how it helps scientists to monitor bird populations.

The Rachel Carson EcoVillage

In-Person Event:

Wednesday, July 12 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Does the idea of sustainable living strike your fancy? How about living in a small, self-planned community? Join a discussion with Doug Cooper, a member of the Rachel Carson EcoVillage, and gain a better understanding of the ideas of cohousing, sustainable living, and our environment. Winners of a grant from Chatham University, EcoVillage members have planned and are building a 35-unit village on the 300-plus-acre Chatham University Eden Hall School of Sustainability in Gibsonia, a half hour north of downtown Pittsburgh.

Idlewild: History and Memories of Pennsylvania’s Oldest Amusement Park

Author Visit and Book Signing

In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 19 6:30–8 p.m.

Join the Upper St. Clair Township Library for a spotlight series on local authors as we welcome writer and historian Jennifer Sopko for a book talk and signing. Learn about the history of Pennsylvania’s oldest operating amusement park—Idlewild Park in Ligonier—and how this 19th century railroad picnic grove grew into a beloved and award-winning amusement park that has delighted families for three centuries.

Power Out? Power Up!

In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 26 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 6–7 p.m.

car dealer hustling a smoking, clattering, clunker as a first-rate car, and a clumsy carpenter disrupting a construction site all have in common? These are Nate’s true-life quirky stories. He invites you to the library for a night of theatrical storytelling. He will bring his stories to life in your imagination through character voices, physicality, and word pictures to create mental movies for you.

Grocery Shopping on a Budget

In-Person Event

Tuesday, August 15

12–12:45 p.m.

Join Case-Specific Nutrition for a presentation on grocery shopping on a budget. Healthy foods are often thought of as expensive and inaccessible to many, but the truth is eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. Join us in person for tips and tricks to navigate the grocery store with your budget and health in mind.

Power outage? No problem! If you have a home generator, that is. With the aging electric grid and increased demand for electricity, outages are becoming increasingly common. In 2021, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reported that 63 major outages occurred and affected more than two million people. Come learn from Generator Supercenter of Pittsburgh how the power source from a whole-home generator is solving the problem.

Theatrical Story Telling with Nate Dunlap

In-Person Event

Wednesday, August 9 6:30–7:30 p.m.

What does an elementary school overtaken by football fanatics, a shady

USC Township Library Hours

Monday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Tuesday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Friday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

The library will be closed :

Saturday, May 20 for Community Day, Monday, May 29 for Memorial Day and Tuesday, July 4 for the Fourth of July.

Outside book and video return available 24/7

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

412-835-5540

twpusc.org/library

Upper St. Clair Township Library

2023 Summer Reading Challenge for Kids, Tweens & Teens

Online using Beanstack

Monday, June 5–Thursday, August 17

2023 Summer Bingo Activity Challenge for Kids, Tweens & Teens

Online using Beanstack

Monday, June 5–Thursday, August 17

Scan code to sign up!

Request a specially selected

Book Bundle

Upper St. Clair Township Library for readers of all ages!

Read-Aloud Book Bundle

Classics & new favorites for the entire family

ready-t0-read book bundle

For

readers in Kindergarten, 1st & 2nd grade

Chapter Books & More

Novels and non-fiction for readers in grades 3-5

mIDDLE gRADE bOOK bUNDLES

For

Tween & Teen Book Bundles

For 6th-12th grade readers

STUDENT VOLUNTEER

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Students going into grades 6-12 are able to volunteer for the USC Township Library this summer Use the code below to access the volunteer application.

To be eligible to volunteer during the school year, you must participate in either the 2023 Summer Teen Read or 2023 Summer Teen Activity Bingo Challenge. Sign up using the code below.

The application will close on Friday, July 28, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

Questions? Ask them using the code below!

Summer Safety Tips

Marc Chlebowksi, USC VFD

Summer is here, and it is time to enjoy the warm weather, longer days, and outdoor activities. However, as you plan your fun, it is essential to remember that summer also brings a higher risk of fires. Whether you are grilling in your backyard, lighting fireworks, or enjoying a bonfire with friends, it is crucial to take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your property safe.

Here are some tips to help you have an enjoyable summer and keep our community safe.

Grill safely. Grilling is a favorite summer pastime, but it can also be dangerous if not done safely. Before lighting your grill, make sure it is placed on a level surface and away from any combustible materials. Also, be sure to keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and never leave your grill unattended while it is lit.

Be mindful of fireworks. Fireworks are a traditional way to celebrate the Fourth of July and other summer holidays. However, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when lighting fireworks, and

never aim them at people, animals, or buildings. It is also a good idea to have a bucket of water nearby in case of any accidents.

Have proper outdoor lighting. If you plan to spend time outside after dark, make sure you have proper lighting to avoid accidents. Outdoor lighting can also help deter burglars and other criminals from entering your property.

Keep your yard clean. Dry leaves, grass, and other debris in your yard can easily catch fire, especially during hot, dry weather. Keep your yard clean and well maintained, and dispose of any yard waste appropriately.

Install smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are an essential part of any home’s fire safety plan. Make sure you have smoke detectors installed in every bedroom, outside of sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. Test them regularly and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Educate your family. Make sure everyone in your family knows how to react in case of a fire. Teach them the stop, drop, and roll technique, and practice fire drills regularly.

By following these tips, you can have a fun and safe summer in Upper St. Clair. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to fire safety. Enjoy your summer and stay safe!

Volunteer Firefighters: Making a Difference in Upper St. Clair

Marc Chlebowksi, USC VFD

When it comes to fire emergencies, we often rely on the quick response and heroic efforts of our local firefighters. These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities and keep us safe. However, did you know that many of these firefighters are volunteers who give their time and energy to help others without pay? Volunteer firefighters play a crucial role in many communities across the country. They are ordinary citizens who dedicate their time and effort to serving their community as firefighters. Despite not receiving any compensation, they are trained professionals who work tirelessly to save lives, protect property, and ensure public safety.

Volunteer firefighters are an essential part of the firefighting community. They often work alongside their paid counterparts, responding to emergency calls, providing

medical assistance, and assisting with other emergencies. In many rural communities, volunteer firefighters are the only firefighters available, making their services even more critical. Volunteering as a firefighter is not an easy task. It requires extensive training, commitment, and bravery. Volunteer firefighters undergo rigorous training to ensure they can respond to a wide range of emergencies, including fires, hazardous materials, and rescue operations. They must also maintain a high level of physical fitness and be ready to respond to emergencies at any time of the day or night. Despite the challenges, many volunteers find their work rewarding. They enjoy serving their community and helping others, knowing that they are making a difference.

Volunteer firefighters are often seen as an integral part of their communities, and their presence provides a sense of security

and comfort. Volunteer firefighters not only protect their communities, but they also help to build them. They are often involved in community events, fundraisers, and other activities that bring people together. Their efforts help to strengthen the bonds between neighbors and create a sense of pride in the community.

In conclusion, volunteer firefighters are an essential part of Upper St. Clair. They give their time and energy to serve others, often without recognition or compensation. Their dedication and bravery help to keep us safe and protect our property, and their involvement in community events helps to build strong and vibrant communities. n

If you’re interested in serving your community as a volunteer firefighter, visit uscvfd.com to learn more about how you can get involved.

Police Department News

Officer Fina Returns to USCPD

On January 16 the Upper St. Clair Police Department (USCPD) welcomed Stefano Fina back to the department in the capacity of police officer. Officer Fina was a member of the USCPD from 2011–2015, serving as a dispatcher. He further pursued his career in law enforcement, most recently as an officer with the city of Pittsburgh. Officer Fina also received his Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Welcome back! n

USC Police Officers Added to SHACOG Teams

The Upper St Clair Police Department has added two officers to teams affiliated with SHACOG (South Hills Area Council of Governments) police departments.

In January, after passing a rigorous testing process, officer Phil Saracco was accepted onto the critical incident response team.

After completing his first round of specialized investigative training, officer Sean Allebrand became part of the collision reconstruction team this year. His goal is to pursue multiple levels of training to achieve the designation of reconstructionist.

Currently, there are three officers dedicated to the response team, three officers dedicated to the support team, and five officers dedicated to the crash team. Investigative sergeant James Murphy is the department’s liaison for the criminal investigation team, which coordinates investigations of special cases throughout the South Hills area.

These teams pool resources together from affiliated departments to aid in handling serious issues in any community within the SHACOG area. On occasion, the teams are requested to assist agencies outside of the SHACOG

umbrella. For instance, in 2018 the response team assisted multiple agencies with the tragic shooting at the Tree-of-Life Synagogue. The teams are overseen by the SHACOG Police Chiefs Council. n

USC Street Resurfacing 2023

Below are the Upper St. Clair streets scheduled to be resurfaced during the 2023 season. Visit the Township website at twpusc.org for up-to-date information for possible changes.

Street Name Termini from/to

Abbeyville Road North Highland to Washington

Bartley Road Phillips to terminus

Cook School Road Scarlett to Pesavento

DeArment Parkway Bartley to Locust

Franklin Drive Hays to Skyview

Howard Drive DeArment to Bartley

Locust Lane N. Highland to Phillips

Manor Drive Morton to Ridgewood

Mill Grove Road Hathaway to Hathaway

Morton Road Boyce to Manor

Murdstone Road Warwick to Kent

Murdstone Road Orr to Warwick

North Highland Drive Abbeyville to Bartley

Old Washington Road Cloverleaf to Washington Road

Orr Road Washington to McMillan

Patton Drive N. Highland to Keifer

Phillip Drive Old Washington to Lindenwood

Seegar Road McMillan to Tyris

Trotwood Circle Trotwood to cul-de-sac

Warwick Drive Murdstone to Orr

At officer Fina’s swearing in were (l/r) Judge Ronald Arnoni, USC chief of police Jon Wharton, officer Stefano Fina, USC township manager Matt Serakowski, and USC assistant township manager Mark Mansfield.

Personal. Best.

What are you striving for today?

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 Pittsburgh Region. That’s why we hire the best healthcare professionals and invest 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.

Megan Vaites, R.N.

724-942-2888

Horvath Dermatology Associates is proud to welcome Gretchen Kreizenbeck, MD to the practice.

Horvath Dermatology Associates has been a trusted provider of dermatology care for generations. Our expert providers offer cutting edge medical care with a patientcentered focus. We care for all ages. Currently accepting new patients.

Help “Stamp Out Hunger”

Mary Lynne Spazok

www.horvathdermatology.com

The National Association of Letter Carriers aim to “Stamp out Hunger” on Saturday, May 13. The month of May was chosen for the largest one-day food drive in our nation, as foodstuff donations decrease post-Thanksgiving and Christmas. Over the last 25 years, in excess of one billion pounds of food has been distributed by the United States Postal Service (USPS).

One in eight Americans faces hunger daily. Leaving just one non-perishable food donation within your mailbox, at the curb (in a weather proof bag marked USPS), or at the post office drop-off greatly benefits neighborhood food banks, pantries, and shelters. Desired non-perishables include: canned meats (tuna, chicken), boxed meals (soup, mac and cheese), canned beans, vegetables, fruits, dried pasta, rice, and cereal. Ramen noodles are always a hit!

Community spirit affords children a sense of belonging. To foster self-esteem, involve youngsters with an elementary but philanthropic visit to a budget-friendly dollar store. Kids relate to variety packs of cookies and crackers that are perfect for a nosh or bag lunches. Aside from being fun, realized are the real-world skills of critical thinking and task execution.

This Mother’s Day, honor someone special by helping shut-ins, the disabled, and those who champion our freedom and merit our support, military personnel. So, prior to mail delivery, place non-perishable food item(s) inside or next to your mailbox. Dedicated USPS Carriers collect, sort, and then deliver. Within Upper St. Clair, there are 8480 homes, apartments, and condo residences. Wouldn’t 8480 donations be awesome? Your generosity assures that this year’s effort will be the most successful ever! n

Gretchen Kreizenbeck, MD

USC carrier Joyce Scheidter, USPS, 33 years

Kindermusik: How One Mother’s Journey

Led to a Career of Teaching and Giving

Kathy Morrison

Upper St. Clair resident Julie Barrett is well-known for her passion for teaching Kindermusik to young children. As a lifelong educator, Julie has dedicated her time and energy to nurturing the development of countless young children in our neighborhood, and the surrounding areas in the South Hills.

Julie spoke with enthusiasm and energy about her love for teaching music. “There’s nothing quite like watching a child discover the joy of making music,” she said. “Music has the power to connect families, to develop our brains and bodies, and to create meaningful connections.”

Julie’s journey to becoming a music teacher began when she brought her own child to a Kindermusik class 16 years ago. Kindermusik is a music and movement program that focuses on early childhood development and has been around for over 40 years.

She shared: “I was fortunate with my educational background to see all the value that was happening below the surface of the activities. I’ll never forget my first words when I called my husband. I said, ‘This is an investment in [our daughter and] her future.’ Kindemusik was so much more than I anticipated. I was surprised with the amount of stimulation that she was receiving cognitively and emotionally. Over time, I was struck by the way she was just thriving verbally because of the weekly Kindermusik classes and the class music we listened to all the time in the car and at home.”

When the opportunity came to become a licensed Kindermusik educator, Julie joined the team at Kathy’s Music and quickly became a valued team member. After teaching Kindermusik for 12 years, Julie has witnessed the positive impact this experience has on children and their families.

When asked what she loves most about teaching music, Julie answered: “The people. The connections I make with children and families.”

Julie embraces the Kindermusik approach to teaching that is holistic and child-centered. She believes that every child has their own unique learning style and that it’s important to focus on each child’s needs. Using the award winning Kindermusik curricula, she uses a variety of techniques and activities to keep children engaged and excited about learning. Each class includes singing, dancing, instrument exploration, and story time. Each lesson incorporates movement and sensory activities to enhance the child’s overall learning experience.

Julie’s commitment to parents is evident in her approach to teaching music. “I love those parents. It’s a big piece of why I am here. I want them to leave my classroom feeling good about themselves as parents. By involving parents in the learning process, Julie is able to create a supportive and engaging environment that promotes learning and growth for the child.

Over the years, Julie has added various roles to her teaching work at Kathy’s Music, a community music school in the South HIlls, including lead nurturing, customer service, and mentoring other teachers as assistant director of Kindermusik. Currently, she is the Director of Operations seeking to create a magical customer experience from the time someone reaches out, to their first visit to the studio, and at each touch point as they participate in the school for Kindermusik, lessons, or summer camps.

In addition to teaching and her leadership role at the school, Julie is active in the USC community as a volunteer at her daughters’ schools and serves on the board of the USC Rowing Association.

As a neighbor in our community, Julie is a shining example of the power of giving back through teaching. Her passion for music and dedication to sharing it with others has made a lasting impact on countless young people in our neighborhood. We’re grateful for the joy she brings to our lives through her work. n See ad for Kathy’s Music on this page.

Rainy Day Rescue

Haley Roberts, Administrative Coordinator, Extended Day Services

Rainy days during the summer can be a bummer, especially when you have an active family who loves to be outdoors. However, there are plenty of fun indoor activities that families can engage in together on a rainy summer day. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of when the rain starts falling!

• Board games and puzzles. Board games and puzzles are a classic rainy-day activity for families. Dig out your favorite games from the closet or visit a local game store to purchase a new game to try. Puzzles are also a great activity for families to work on together!

• Movie marathon. On a rainy day, there’s nothing better than snuggling up with your family and watching movies. Consider having a movie marathon, where each person can choose his or her favorite film to watch. Make some popcorn and enjoy a cozy day inside.

• Arts and crafts. Arts and crafts are a great way to engage children’s creativity and keep them entertained on a rainy day. Painting, drawing, and making jewelry are just a few examples of fun activities that families can do together.

• Indoor sports. Just because it’s raining outside doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy athletics. Set up a mini-golf course in your living room, have a game of basketball at the Rec Center, or visit the local bowling alley for some strikes and spares.

• Cooking and baking. Rainy days are a great opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Try making a homemade pizza or bake some cookies with your family. Cooking and baking together are great ways to bond and to teach your children valuable life skills.

• Indoor scavenger hunt. Create a scavenger hunt for your children to complete inside the house. You can hide clues around the house and have your children follow them to find a special prize at the end. This is a great way to foster teamwork and collaboration among siblings, too. Rainy summer days don’t have to be a drag! Try some of these boredom busters during this year’s first summer shower to keep your children entertained and happy. n

Why Should I Choose a Music Camp This Summer?

Becki Lewis, Lewis Music Studio

Music lessons are fun, but do they serve any purpose other than entertainment? The challenge of learning “Fur Elise” or a jazz lick might provide amusement, but are there benefits beyond the enjoyment? Science has shown us that there are many benefits of learning music in a formal setting! Some examples of these benefits are:

• Exercise for the brain

• Teaches commitment

• Improves language development

• Offers an outlet for creativity

• Relieves symptoms of depression

• Stimulates memory

• and so much more!

But, why a summer music camp? Summer is a great time for students who are normally occupied with school, work, scheduled activities, and family commitments to have extra free time! Students should have down time where they can play, relax, build friendships, and pursue their passions. This makes summer the perfect time for kids and teens to do a

summer camp where they can explore something outside of their normal routine. Camp provides enough structured time away from screens to make parents happy, and it also gives enough free time for students to meet new friends, bond with current friends, enjoy some time in the great outdoors, and just have fun! Music camps are a perfect way for students to reap all of the benefits of music lessons and still have a great summer experience that they will remember for years to come. n

See the Lewis Music Studio ad on this page.

Gas Fire Pit Safety

A gas fire pit on the back patio is a convenient way to enjoy the ambience of an outdoor fire without the dangers of burning wood. But just because you’re using gas doesn’t mean you’re in the clear concerning safety. First, check the local jurisdiction’s laws regarding backyard fire pits. Then read these outdoor fire pit safety tips to keep your gas fire pit burning free of hazards. Where should I put my natural gas fire pit?

You’ll want to set up your gas fire pit in an area well away from adjacent walls or building overhangs. Other things you want to consider are:

• Make sure the area is free of combustible materials and on a nonflammable surface.

• Move all wicker patio furniture, cleaning fluids, brooms, leaves and other outdoor debris off the patio.

• If you’re interested in setting the pit on your wooden deck, make sure to purchase a pedestal-style pit, raised up on feet to allow for appropriate heat ventilation. Even if the fire pit is a pedestal-style, consider positioning a nonflammable surface below it, especially if it’s on a wooden deck.

• Keep an eye out for low-hanging branches or drooping power lines overhead, and place the pit clear of them. An outdoor fire pit should only be used outdoors. Lighting one inside can be a fire hazard and also increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

FOR

Should I check British Thermal Units (BTU) before buying my gas fire pit?

Before you buy your pit, check its BTU rating. A normal range is anywhere between 40,000–60,000 BTUs. The higher the BTUs, the bigger the fire. If possible, test out the pit beforehand to see the size of the flame it will produce. Remember to factor in how winds in your backyard can increase the flame’s size. Do I need to keep my backyard fire pit covered?

Even though gas burns cleaner than wood, you’ll still need to check the burner periodically and keep it free from obstructions. Clean the burner with a soft brush if it is dirty.

When not in use, the pit should stay covered. Spiders and bugs can find a way in and end up clogging your burner. Rainwater can destroy porous ceramic logs that sit atop the pit. What are some outdoor gas fire pit safety reminders?

• Don’t leave a gas fire pit unattended while it’s lit.

• Don’t let children play close to the pit.

• Don’t line a pit with aluminum foil.

• Don’t cook in the pit, unless you’ve bought one specifically designed for cooking.

• Don’t put anything in the pit that isn’t approved by the manufacturer. Rocks, glass, and simulated ceramic logs should be fire-pit approved. n

Adopt a Duck for the Annual Community Day

Great Duck Race!

Adopt a Duck!

Come and cheer on your duck(s) to the finish line in McLaughlin Run

May 20th @ 3:00 on Community Day. Prizes include gift baskets, dining cards, electronic gadgets, toys, and more.

Grand Prize: 10th generation Apple iPad

Foundation Announces New Scholarship

Honoring the Memory of a Visionary Educator and Guiding Force in the Establishment of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

When Tom Harshman passed away in 2018, memorial donations were received from former students and friends throughout the community.

CFUSC announces the launch of a new scholarship honoring the visions of this school administrator and community leader who was a key figure in the establishment of the Community Foundation from day one. The first recipient of this award will be recognized at the High School Awards night in May.

Adoption Donations:

Quack = 1 Duck for $5

Quack Pack = 6 Ducks for $25

Pack of Quackers = 15 Ducks for $50

Adoptions will start April 12. Call 412-440-8464

Leave a message and a trustee will contact you.

“The one little duck with the feather on his back, He lead the others with a QUACK, QUACK, QUACK!”

CFUSC Thanks the 30th Anniversary Gala

Celebration Game Sponsors

Amanda Walton - Re/Max Select Realty

Don’s Appliances - Nick Hillebrand

Henderson Bros. - Daniel P. & Daniel W. Grealish

Julie Welter - Compass Real Estate

Louis Anthony Jewelers - Louis Guarino

Simona Paulter, M.D., F.A.C.P. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Steel City Lawyer - Stephen Biedrzycki

Scholarship Funds held by the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

William A. Pope Scholarship*

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who is planning a post high school education program. Applicants should provide an essay showing evidence of selflessness among peers and a willingness to help others through volunteerism, evidence of achieving the best in school performance, and that the applicant has limited opportunities to receive other academic or athletic scholarships. This scholarship will not exceed $500.

Recipients:

Timothy Wagner - 2004

Jenny Malarkey - 2006

Vanessa Stuckert - 2008

Lauren Williams - 2010

Conor Klutch - 2012

Benjamin Haus - 2014

Eric Pacalo - 2016

Hannah Pribanic - 2018

Jacob Manko - 2020

Linas Friedman - 2022

Krishnan Family Scholarship*

Jeffrey Harshman - 2005

Lisa Ripper - 2007

Megan Krantz - 2009

Elizabeth Moore - 2011

Lily Olsakovsky - 2013

Jonathan Eric Wharton - 2015

Faley Bulazo - 2017

Noah Markovitz - 2019

Brooke Reitz - 2021

This scholarship was created by the Krishnan children in honor of their parents Sivaram Krishnan and Revathi Krishnan, who believed that success requires risk taking and commitment. The award is intended to “pay it forward.” This scholarship will not exceed $2500.

Recipients:

Isabella Marasco - 2022

Fiona Wang - 2022

T. J. White Athletic Scholarship*

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who will attend a four-year college and plans to continue participating in his/her sport. The applicant must have been a membrer of a USCHS team sport for all four years of high school and received at least two varsity letters in that sport. A 3.2 Grade Point Average is required for consideration. This scholarship will not exceed $750. Applications are available in the Counseling Department at USCHS.

Recipients:

Jeremy Black - 2007

Elizabeth J. Kline - 2009

(No Candidate - 2011)

John Rutkowski - 2013

Sam Schiffman - 2015

Louis Olsakovsky - 2017

Antonio Orsini - 2019

Ethan Dahlen - 2021

Andrea Pion - 2008

Amy Anderson - 2010

Austin Stephan - 2012

Guiseppe Orsini - 2014

Ryan Harkleroad - 2016

Kate Groniger - 2018

Sara Steve - 2020

Tanner O’Grady - 2022

The John and Kathy Burke DeBlassio Scholarship*

This scholarship is sponsored by the USCHS Class of 1971 to honor the legacies of Dr. John DeBlassio and Kathy Burke DeBlassio, both USC Hall of Fame teachers, and their dedication to and support for the many students they taught and mentored throughout the years. It will be awarded for the first time in 2023, to a graduating senior who is planning to be a teacher/educator and has a demonstrated record of service to others.To be eligible for this award which will not exceed $1000, applicants must have been accepted to a college or university with a major in education.

Thomas Harshman Memorial Scholarship*

This scholarship will be awarded for the first time in 2023 and will be presented to a graduating senior with exceptional talent in music, dance, theatre and/or art, and exhibits superlative qualities of leadership, creativity, teamwork, problem solving and commitment to others, as well as participation in the school music ensembles. To be eligible for this award, which will not exceed $500, applicants must have been accepted to a college or university with a major or minor in the performing or theatre arts and must have participated in an Upper St. Clair High School Spring Musical or Fall Play for at least two years.

* Active Funds

John Small - Spirit of the Community Award 2017-22

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who has demonstrated a commitment to community involvement through their high school years.

Recipients:

Tyler Clark - 2017

Rebecca Speer - 2019

Hannah Pribanic - 2018

Juliana Tarcson - 2020

Eileen Guo - 2021 Eva Rankin - 2022

Joanne Szymanski Scholarship 2008-2015

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who will attend a four-year college or university with a major in mathematics. Preference will be given to applicants who attended middle school in Upper St. Clair. This scholarship will not exceed $750.

Recipients:

Scott Yanak - 2008

Mary Collins - 2010

Ben Zhang - 2012

Jacquelynn Ross - 2014

Amy Twerdok - 2009

Erin McTiernan - 2011

Grace Ellen Trocano - 2013

Kristine English - 2015

Ted Barnett Scholarship 2003-2017

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who attended Baker Elementary School and will attend a four year college. Criteria for application will be based on academics, leadership, extra-curricular involvement and volunteerism. This scholarship will not exceed $500

Recipients:

Nicholas Carosella - 2003

James March - 2005

Nicholas Shea - 2007

Eric Elliott - 2009

Maggie Overstreet - 2011

Anastasia Novodran - 2013

Martin Bacik - 2015

Alex Beynon - 2017

Julie Poliak - 2004

Aristaia Vasilakis - 2006

Madeline Massaro - 2008

Kristen Stein - 2010

Katherine Snyder - 2012

Grace Chen - 2014

Sarah Kerman - 2016

Mary Elena Batz Scholarship 2002-2018

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who will major or minor in performing or theater arts. Criteria for application will be based upon exceptional talent and leadership, and a history of at least two year of participation in the USCHS Musical or Fall Play. This scholarship will not exceed $500.

Recipients:

Trevor Falletta - 2002

Lauren Sapienza - 2004

Stephanie Maloney - 2006

Sarah Scola - 2008

Emily Summers - 2010

Michael Boyas - 2012

Melody MacLachlan - 2014

Ben Nadler - 2016

Holly Smith - 2018

Darcy Shaffner - 2003

Lara Hillier - 2005

Joyce Hinnebusch - 2007

C. Grant Carey - 2009

Sarah Nadler - 2011

Anna Azzizi Rosatti - 2015

Tom Maddigan - 2015

Carly DeCock - 2017

Patrick O’Brien Scholarship 2020

This scholarship is in memory of Baker School third grader, Patrick O’Brien and is to be awarded to a member of Patrick’s graduating class.

Recipient:

Haley Beardsley, Class of 2020

New scholarship funds can be established and contributions can be made to active, existing funds. Please make checks payable to CFUSC with a notation on the memo line indicating which fund you support. Your donation is greatly appreciated and benefits deserving students as they pursue advanced education and degrees. For more information contact the Community Foundation at 412-440-8464, leave a brief mesage and your call will be returned. Donations can be mailed to:

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

2585 Washington Road #131 Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Upper St. Clair School District

Board of School Directors

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

School District Central Office Administration

School District Building Administration

Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices

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

Principal

*Date indicates expiration of term.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr.

Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Amy Pfender Assistant Superintendent

Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Lauren Madia Director of Pupil Services

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell Director of Special Education

Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance

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

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities

Hallie Snyder Appointed to School Board

The Upper St. Clair School Board approved the appointment of Hallie Snyder to the board of school directors on March 27, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Phillip Elias this February. Hallie, a fourth-generation resident of Upper St. Clair, will serve the remainder of the term, which expires on December 4, 2023.

In addition to being a parent of four children and an active member of the school community, Hallie is an owner of Victorian Finance, LLC, a 20-year-old mortgage bank located in Upper St. Clair.

A graduate of Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Hallie holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in education with a specialization in special needs, including autism and pervasive developmental disorders. She previously served as a learning support teacher in the Fox Chapel School District and as a behavioral specialist consultant for the Pressley Ridge Autism Program. n

Band Director Honored

Dr. John Seybert, Upper St. Clair High School band director, was honored with the Citation of Excellence Award from the National Band Association.

According to the National Band Association’s website, the Citation of Excellence is awarded to outstanding concert band directors whose ensembles have a history of a distinguished level of accomplishment or to those individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of bands and band music.

“This is a significant award for a high school band program,” said John. “I am thankful to be recognized with the Upper St. Clair High School Wind Ensemble for excellence in musical performance and exceptional service to the profession.”

A faculty member since December 2016, John also serves as the District’s performing arts curriculum leader. He received the Citation of Excellence Award during the Marywood University Senior Wind Band Festival. It was one stop of the Upper St. Clair High School Wind Ensemble’s recent university tour.

“This is the first time our Wind Ensemble has performed at multiple universities on tour,” said John.

The USCHS Wind Ensemble performed at Messiah University with Dr. Jim Colonna, director of bands, on January 20, and at the Marywood University Festival on January 21. The program included a performance of “From Gold,” which was written and guest conducted by Sam Hazo, a 1984 Upper St. Clair High School alumnus.

“The USCHS Wind Ensemble received a standing ovation and outstanding reviews from high school and college band directors from all over the country,” said John. n

Boyce Teachers Named Promising Practitioners

Two Boyce Middle School teachers were honored with the Promising Practitioners Award from the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education (PAMLE). Abbey DiGregorio, a physical education teacher, and Ellie Oxenreiter, a learning support teacher, were recognized during the PAMLE state conference 2023.

According to PAMLE’s website, the Promising Practitioners Award “is 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.”

Teaching at the middle school level ensures that every day is a new adventure, which is just one of the qualities that Abbey values most at Boyce Middle School.

“I love seeing the growth that happens when each individual student pushes themselves to the limits, struggles, and

then finds success,” she said. “My students brighten up my day every day. I love the task of figuring out how to empower them to become successful and confident learners.”

Abbey holds a bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock University and a master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania. She previously served as a physical education teacher in the Karns City Area School District.

Ellie finds it rewarding to watch middle school students develop into independent learners.

“In my capacity, I am able to help bridge that progression with individualized instruction,” she said. “I’m fortunate that Boyce provides such an uplifting and positive environment that serves to enhance the middle school experience.”

A graduate of Duquesne University, Ellie earned her undergraduate degree in early childhood education and her

graduate degree in special education. Prior to joining the Upper St. Clair faculty, she served as a special education teacher in the Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia. 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.

Ellie Oxenreiter and Abbey DiGregorio

Hallie Snyder

USCHS Wind Ensemble at Marywood University

Upper St. Clair High School

Halls Of Fame 23rd 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

2023 Halls of Fame Inductee Nomination

To nominate a candidate for the 2023 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame (the event’s 24th 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.

Nominations Due June 30, 2023. Nomination forms can also be mailed to:

Halls of Fame Committee Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Children’s Author Visits Baker

Baker Elementary’s youngest learners recently welcomed best-selling author Jean Reidy, who talked with students in kindergarten, first, and second grade about her experiences writing and illustrating children’s books.

Jean Reidy is an award-winning author of 15 children’s books, including Truman, Light Up the Night, Time-out for Monsters, and Pup 681. She is a three-time winner of the Colorado Book Award, a Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner, a Charlotte Zolotow Honor winner, and recognized on “Best of” lists by School Library Journal, the New York Times, NPR, and Amazon.

The author visit was planned by Baker librarian Linda Connor, who had met Jean previously.

“I chose Jean because I had seen her present before, and I knew that she could connect with the kids and excite them about reading and writing,” said Linda. “Also, she writes stories on a variety of topics that the students really enjoyed.”

In her two Serving Up Stories assemblies, Jean took Baker students through her picture book creation process, including dreaming, writing, revising, and illustrating. She answered questions about why she loves to write books and what inspires her.

“The students really enjoyed talking to her about her writing and revising process, why she writes, and her experiences creating a story,” Linda said. “She shared how she gets her ideas and had the students find the ways illustrations change from the first draft to the final book. We even did an inspiring movement break to remind us to look around and dream!”

While this author’s visit was geared to students in the primary grades, Baker’s third and fourth graders participated in a virtual author visit via Zoom on Jan. 31 with award-winning authors/illustrator Kate Messner and Grace Lin. Their book, Once Upon a Book, is described as a modern folktale about the joy of reading.

“They talked about how they shared ideas and really built the book together by sharing it via texts, emails, Facetime, etc.,” said Linda. “The students were able to hear how their ideas changed and expanded as they wrote together. Students were able to do a paired drawing with Grace Lin.”

Linda hopes that the authors’ visits will help students gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the writing process.

“It’s great for students to be able to interact with authors because they learn that they are real people who work hard to make a story that is enjoyed,” she said. “Jean Reidy told our students, ‘You are my people!’ She shared that when she writes, she is thinking of them and their likes and experiences.” n

Breneman Selected for Future Legends

Boyce Middle School sixth grader Zach Breneman was selected to play in the Hockey Hall of Fame Future Legends event this April, in Toronto, Canada. According to the organization’s website, the Future Legends is a showcase that features “the top 11-year-old boys and 12-year-old girls from around the world. Participants are ‘drafted’ onto rosters to ensure that the event features both great competition and geographic diversity on each team.”

Zach plays right wing for the Pittsburgh Pens Elite 2011 team, and in the Upper St. Clair Junior Panthers hockey program. Last summer, he was selected to play for Team Pennsylvania in The Brick, an invitational ice hockey tournament in Edmonton, Alberta. n

Linda Connor and Jean Reidy

Zach Breneman

The Future is Now

Josh Beitler

What will the world look like in 100 years? This is a question that many ask, but would middle schoolers? Well, those of us who participated in the annual Future City competition would. I was part of the Fort Couch team that competed in 2023’s Future City and wanted to share a bit about our lengthy, exciting, and, ultimately, successful experience.

Future City not only poses the “100-year” question, but requires that participating schools plan, construct, and present a model city that’s thriving in the next century. Each year there is a specific focus to the larger prompt and our city had to be one that had adapted to and mitigated the effects of climate change. Among our various tasks were three larger requirements: a 1500-word essay covering all aspects of our city, a scale-model representation of the city, and a roughly six-minute presentation/skit to convey the essentials to a panel of judges.

Our team included over 30 hardworking FCMS students. The challenge was daunting, but we all came together in remarkable ways. We had our share of obstacles, so this accomplishment was by no means a breeze. However, we dedicated a ton of time and effort to this endeavor and made it to Nationals in Washington, DC!

After deciding on the climate change issue of drought, we had to pick a location to set our city. After a group vote, Mogadishu, Somalia was the victor! We split into groups to tackle the initial concerns of infrastructure: power, water, waste management, architecture, etc. Everyone

researched these fields before we started building the city. We’d meet weekly to discuss our progress and then scheduled an in-school field trip to solidify our ideas and tackle the first requirement: the essay. Many students contributed various paragraphs about our topic. When we combined them all into one essay, it was around 7000 words! Students who were especially focused on the writing began to narrow in on the important details. After countless proofreads and last-minute edits, we finally submitted our essay before the first deadline this past fall. Only then could we start building our city, which we named Biyaha Janda—Paradise of Water in the native Somali language.

Skilled artists and students who like to work with their hands came together to build, using mostly recycled materials that were repurposed into a miniature city. After months of hard work, the city was looking really good!

The team had to pick three presenters who would be responsible for writing and memorizing a skit to explain our city, and to eventually answer questions from the judges. My fellow eighth graders, Ryan Katukota and Skanda Sathya Vagheeswar, were selected along with me. While others continued to build the city and refine our ideas, the three of us started working separately on the skit. We wanted it to be informative, yet also have some comedic relief, so as not to bore the audience.

The regional competition, held at Pittsburgh’s Fed-Ex headquarters, was an all-day event. Special award judges

circulated among the teams and asked questions regarding their specific fields or areas of engineering. Luckily, we all studied up on various aspects of the city beforehand. Next came a formal presentation of our skit in front of the judges, followed by questions regarding all parts of the city. The questions were challenging, but we knew our stuff and answered to the best of our abilities!

Well, we made the top five! As finalists, we had to present to everyone at the competition. Soon, in addition to the judges laughing at our jokes, the whole audience did. We continued through the presentation and answered another round of questions. Watching our competition, I began to grow more confident that we had a chance.

The emcee began with the special awards: “Best Use of Nuclear Energy goes to…Fort Couch Middle School!” “Best Futuristic City goes to…Fort Couch Middle School!” My teammates and I celebrated, surprised to have received two awards, but eagerly awaited the announcement of the overall winner. Soon it was official: “First place goes to Fort Couch Middle School!”

Future City is a far-reaching competition and the first-place team from each region advances to Nationals, where teams from as far away as China earned spots to compete. DiscoverE, the organization

Fort Couch Middle School Biyaha Janda Team posing with their two special awards: (l/r) Jason O’Roark—Fort Couch Gifted Education teacher, Josh Beitler, Skanda Sathya Vagheeswar, Ryan Katukota, Thomas Yochum—High School Gifted Education teacher.

(l/r) Skanda Sathya Vagheeswar, Ryan Katukota, Jason O’Roark, and Josh Beitler in front of their city model.

behind Future City, sent us congratulations and informed us they would cover transportation and lodging for our three presenters and two educators to compete at Nationals in Washington DC. We refined details as much as we could and delved even further into the details of our city.

Early Saturday morning in mid-February, my team and I met at the airport. After a delay which included having to get seats on another flight, we were on our way. As we were landing, I managed to spot some monuments and famous landmarks. We had a little time to settle in before the welcome party that evening. Ryan’s mom drove the model in her SUV and would be arriving soon. My parents and brother were also driving, all in time for the party and excitement to begin!

We transported our model city to the special awards room in preparation for Sunday, the first day of competition. We had a couple of hours before nightfall, so we did some sight-seeing, followed by some final prep for the next day.

After “dressing up” for our presentation, we finished setting up our model and completed our last-minute research before the special award judging. There were dozens of award categories, but we felt our best chances were Best Use of Renewable Energy, Most Sustainable Food Production System, Best Management of Water Resources, Best Transportation System, and Excellence in Systems Integration. More than 20 groups of special award judges had five minutes to ask questions, and we answered as best we could.

For the next few hours, the staging area for all the Future City models was open to the public. Over 40 teams were gathered in the room, so the area soon exploded with activity. Whenever someone came by our model, we would give them a Heinz pickle pin, which were donated by the Heinz History Center. At the end of the day, many people were representing Pittsburgh, whether they knew it or not!

Monday was the big day! We were scheduled to present our model and skit in front of three separate groups of national judges. This part of the competition would be similar to regionals, where we would perform the skit, respond to the judges’ questions, and then guide them through our model. We introduced ourselves to the judges and vice versa, and began the skit. Nailing every line and receiving chuckles at the comedy, it was a success. The questions the judges asked were challenging, but we knew our stuff. One neat addition was that, along with our coaches, our families got to be in the room during our presentations at Nationals. Their

encouragement was palpable; the audience was full of smiles and admiration. Afterward, our families erupted into applause.

Free for the day, we went to visit museums and monuments with our respective families. Many families went to an orchestral performance at the John F. Kennedy Center. After the show, about half of the group continued on to an art museum, while most presenters, who’d already put in a full day’s work, went back to nap at the hotel. Tomorrow would be the awards ceremony and farewell party.

On Tuesday, we were free until the mid-afternoon. A group of us ventured out to visit the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History. We saw all sorts of amazing things, and this was one of my highlights of the trip.

We grew excited for the afternoon’s awards ceremony, hoping we would win at least one category. In the 23 years that Fort Couch had been participating in Future City, only one other team had made it as far as Nationals, finishing in eighth-place

When the special awards were announced, the presenter bellowed the winning team’s name for Best Management of Water Resources and it was exactly what we’d been waiting to hear: “Fort Couch Middle School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania!”

Much of the remaining ceremony passed quickly; and we knew we weren’t going home empty-handed. We were only anticipating learning who the overall winner would be. The final special award before announcing the winning team was for Best Essay. Still halfadmiring our first trophy, we perked up to hear: “And the award for the 2023 Future City Best Essay goes to… Fort Couch!” Once again, we ran to the stage, smiles across our faces. This was truly a happy surprise!

We didn’t end up in the top five, but we had won two awards and delivered on our goal of taking something home for our entire team, the school, and the community. Incidentally, the top-two overall teams were from Pennsylvania, with Central beating out Philly for the top spot. Weeks later, we learned that we’d placed sixth overall in the nation! n

Fort Couch Middle School Future City Team The two National Special Awards that FCMS won.

STEAM STEM

Odyssey of the Mind Teams Advance to State Finals

For the second year in a row, 10 teams from Upper St. Clair earned top spots at the annual Western Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament, qualifying to advance to the state finals.

In total, 22 Upper St. Clair teams, comprising 144 students with representation from all six of the district’s schools, competed against teams from across the region this March.

The following teams are advancing to the Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind State Finals:

Division 1 (grades 3–5)

The team from Boyce who solved the technical problem earned first-place. Team members include Brayden Wong, Luka Beric, Owen Ptak, Anay Patel, Nirvan Seth, Vinay Patel, and Tusya Rathore. The team is coached by Nimisha Hirpara and Jodie Ptak.

Team members include Cassidy King, Molly Guarino, Elise Mostowy, Keirsten King, Sarah Sakowitz, and Kimberly Krofcheck. This team is coached by Dawn Mostowy and Trisha Krofcheck.

The team from Eisenhower who solved the balsa problem earned third-place. Team members include Aadit Patel, Veer Bhargava, Declan Wong, Kiyaan Mendhi, Keefer Kommer, Keith Smith, and Aditya Singh. This team is coached by Angelic Smith and Nimisha Hirpara.

The team from Boyce who solved the vehicle problem earned fourth-place. Team members include Lydia Calkins, Logan Dunkin, Ivan Yanov, Jacob Reinford, Caroline Fingal, Drew Holzer, and Brighton Perrotti. This team is coached by John Reinford and Courtney Yanov.

Division 2 (grades 6–8)

The team from Fort Couch who solved the technical problem earned first-place Team members include Nigel Bailey, Thea Scheuerle, Parker Sams, Samuel An, Michael Ryan Blessing, Ashwin Vasudevan, and Daphne Collins. This team is coached by Sarah Sams and Jake Collins.

Division 3 (grades 9–12)

The team from USCHS who solved the technical problem earned first-place. Team members include Ian Hills, Jillian Torres, Vera Radke, Mark Torres, and Yaqoot Zalloum. This team is coached by Rema Abdin and Kim Koch.

The team from USCHS who solved the classics problem earned second-place. Team members include Chloe Faist, Zahra Hossain, Geneva Eisinger, Lauren Ginsburg, Artie McCallum, Kurt Baran, and Ayan Amin. This team is coached by Nate Eisinger and Artie Baran.

The team from Boyce who solved the classic problem earned first-place. Team members include Emily Brooks, Evelyn Dolan, Eleanor Wilkinson, Savannah Comiski, Matthew Campagna, Emma Mycoff, and Grace Reis. This team is coached by Stefani Wilkinson and Denise Campagna.

The team from Boyce who solved the technical problem earned second-place. Team members include Colby Caplan, Owen Maher, Lindsey Fitzgerald, Kate McClintock-Comeaux, Hagen McCurry, Ben Fitzgerald, and Addy McCallum. This team is coached by Shanna Caplan and Cortney McCurry.

Each team of up to seven students worked together for five months to solve a long-term problem in one of five chosen categories: vehicle, technical, classics, balsa, or performance. At the tournament, they were given eight minutes to present their solutions for a panel of judges and were required to provide supporting paperwork including a budget breakdown of their work.

Teams were also required to solve one spontaneous problem that was given to them on the spot. Combined scores in both categories (long term and spontaneous), along with additional points for style, provided the tournament results. n

Odyssey of the Mind is an international STEAM program that fosters creative problemsolving skills, teamwork, and ownership in students from kindergarten through grade 12.

The team from Streams who solved the performance problem earned second-place.

The team from Fort Couch who solved the vehicle problem earned third-place. Team members include Rasika Khedikar, Daniyal Badaruddin, Ryan Katukota, Ian Putorti, Preston McLeod, and Trevor McClintock-Comeaux. This team is coached by Dawn Predmore and Yesha Gandhi.

One of the trademarks of the program is its “no outside assistance” philosophy. All ideas, scripts, props, solutions, and paperwork are generated by the team members with no input from coaches, parents, or teachers.

For more information about Odyssey of the Mind in Upper St. Clair, visit uscootm.com or email uscootm@gmail.com.

First-place Boyce Classic Problem Team

First-place Boyce Technical Problem Team

First-place Fort Couch Technical Problem Team

First-place High School Technical Problem Team

STEAM STEM

Middle School Teams Shine at Spontaneous Fun Day

Upper St. Clair’s middle school teams placed first, second, and third at the Western Pennsylvania Odyssey of Mind Spontaneous Fun Day this February.

“Spontaneous Fun Day is an Odyssey of the Mind competition where teams from the Western Pennsylvania region gather to test their problem-solving skills before heading to the regional tournament in March,” said Laura Murtough, USC Odyssey of the Mind co-coordinator. “At Fun Day, teams are given several problems to solve spontaneously or on-the-spot with no prior knowledge of the problem before entering the room.”

Spontaneous problems are either verbal, verbal hands-on, or hands-on in nature. Verbal problems require a spoken response. Verbal hands-on problems involve a physical solution with a spoken response. Hands-on problems are purely constructive, requiring the team to build or create their problem solution. Scores are given for creativity, teamwork, and other measurable parameters.

The Boyce team, coached by Stefani Wilkinson and Denise Campagna, earned first-place in Division 1, which includes students in grades 2–5. Team members include Emily Brooks, Eleanor Wilkinson, Matthew Campagna, Savannah Comiski, Evelyn Dolan, and Amelia Wilkinson.

Coached by Sarah Sams and Jake Collins, a team from Fort Couch placed second in Division 2, which encompasses grades 6–8. Team members include Parker Sams, Michael Ryan Blessing, Samuel An, Nigel Bailey, Ashwin Vasudevan, Thea Scheuerle, and Daphne Collins. Finishing in third-place in Division 2 was the Fort Couch team of Daniyal Badaruddin,

Perfect Scores

This February, 11 Upper St. Clair middle school students earned perfect scores, placing first in the annual CalcuSolve competition, sponsored by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Students worked individually and in groups to complete challenging math problems in a timed setting.

Earning perfect scores from Fort Couch were eighth graders Emma Eannarino and Jonah Zahalsky, and seventh graders Hope Waldron, Raana Parchuri, and John Whitman.

Boyce students earning perfect scores were sixth graders Claire Dietiker, Bernard Huang, Will Kreizenbeck, Owen Maher, Avik Pandey, and Lyman Thomson.

In addition, four Boyce students were among the 21 who tied for third-place. Earning bronze were sixth graders Axes Chilton, Benjamin Fang, and Vivek Sattuluri, as well as fifth grader Brayden Wong.

Serving as academic coaches were gifted education/accelerated math teachers Jason O’Roark, grades 7–8, and Stacie Paronish, grades 5–6.

In the grade 5–6 team competition, Boyce’s Team 1, which includes Claire Dietiker, Bernard Huang, Seth Pedretti, and Lyman Thomson, placed first. Earning second-place in a tie were Team 2—Axes Chilton, Ben Fang, Avik Pandey, and Brayden Wong, and Team 3—Will Kreizenbeck, Mateo Lin, Owen Maher, and Vivek Sattuluri.

In addition to the students who earned perfect scores, other seventh and eighth grade team members representing Fort Couch included Josh Beitler, Matt Beitler, Augusta Bottonari, Felix Chen, Aaron Jiang, Cynthia Shen, and Joey Wyse.n

Preston McLeod, Ian Putorti, Trevor McClintock-Comeaux and Rasika Khedikar, coached by Dawn Predmore and Yesha Gandhi. n

Boyce team

Fort Couch team 1

Fort Couch team 2

Boyce perfect scores— (l/r) Claire Dietiker, Bernard Huang, Avik Pandey, Lyman Thomson, Owen Maher, Will Kreizenbeck

Fort Couch perfect scores— (l/r) Hope Waldron, Raana Parchuri, Emma Eannarino, Jonah Zahalsky, John Whitman

STEAM STEM

Four Participate in Health Professions Program at Pitt

This spring USC High School juniors Alexandra Berkoski and Mackenzie Mitchum and sophomores Josh Anand and Kaarthikha Senthilkumar participated in the Health Professions Prep (HPP) program at the University of Pittsburgh.

The HPP is an academy for high school students that provides exposure to careers in the health sciences. Participants rotated in two-week blocks between each school of the health sciences including dentistry, health and rehabilitation sciences, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

HPP is open to Pittsburgh-area students in grades 9–12 who have an overall grade point average of 2.5 or above. Candidates were required to submit an application including an essay and letter of recommendation.

HPP is an initiative of the University of Pittsburgh’s schools of the health sciences and affiliated hospitals and clinical sites of UPMC. n

Four Participate in Cardiology Program

Upper St. Clair High School junior Miriam Gutensohn and sophomores Mia Marino, Madeleine Oliva, and Anushka Sharma were among the 50 students chosen for the I Look Like a Cardiologist Program, sponsored by UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute.

The mission of the I Look Like a Cardiologist program is to expose students from backgrounds underrepresented in cardiology to the field in order to inspire diverse high school students to consider a career in the field.

According to the program’s website, “heart disease is the most common cause of death for Americans from every gender, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic class. However, despite the gains that some of these groups have made in medical school graduation rates over the past two decades, women and people of color remain significantly underrepresented in cardiology. Through targeted outreach to diverse and intellectually talented high school students in greater Pittsburgh, we hope to cultivate an interest in cardiology and develop a mentorship program for potential future cardiologists from diverse backgrounds.” n

Robotics Team Reaches Semifinals

An all-girls FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics team from Upper St. Clair High School advanced to the semifinals and earned the Judges’ Choice Award at the PA Blue and White Qualifier this January, at Penn State York.

Robotics Offering Girls Opportunities (ROGO) includes seniors Srinidhi Rajaganapathy and Sherry Ren, junior Emily Neiberg, sophomores Nishma Ghimire, Maddie Kovacs, and Kesahi Mathanachandran, and freshman Sofia Alfredson-Themudo. The team is coached by Lisa Kovacs, John Kovacs, and Wanyu Ren. Botsburgh—an experienced FTC team from Upper St. Clair—has served as a mentor for both the team members and coaches.

The FIRST Tech Challenge program challenges teams of middle and high school-aged students to design, build, and program a robot to play a floor game against other teams’ creations. This season, ROGO participated in two qualifying tournaments,competing for a spot at the Pennsylvania state championship.

“ROGO was amazingly able to reach the semifinals in both tournaments,” said Lisa. “In the Blue and White Qualifier, the girls ranked third out of 24 teams. Unfortunately, they were defeated in the semifinals by only four points (136-140), which would have moved them on to the state championship.”

Even though the team did not advance to states, ROGO has much to celebrate.

“This is ROGO’s first year as a team competing in the rigorous FTC robotics competition,” said Lisa. “Although they were unable to move on to states, they received the Judges’ Choice Award to commemorate the unique origin and composition of their team.”

According to the FTC website, the Judges’ Choice Award is optional and may not be given at all tournaments. During the competition, the judging panel may meet a team whose unique efforts, performance, or dynamics merit recognition, but does not fit into any of the existing award categories.

Before the ROGO team was established, Upper St. Clair had three FTC teams, with few, if any, female members. Recognizing the trepidation, Tracy Smith, teacher and USC Robotics Club founder, encouraged the students to make a new, all-girls team.

“The girls stepped up to the challenge and developed their brand-new team,” said Lisa. “They overcame many challenges in creating this successful team, which was feasible only through their prevailing motivation—to inspire and encourage young girls and women to explore their interests in STEM.”

ROGO team members have made it their mission to inspire younger girls to explore areas of STEM.

“They were able to achieve this by providing an outreach event to local Girl Scout troops,” said Lisa. “They helped a Brownie troop earn their first robotics badge by teaching them about the significance of biomimicry—how robotics and technology mimic wildlife in order to be more efficient. The event was such a success, that they have three more events with Girl Scout troops lined up for this year!” n

To learn more about the USC Robotics Club, including information about the Upper St. Clair FTC teams, visit uscrobotics.org.

Alexandra Berkoski

Mackenzie Mitchum Josh Anand Kaarthikha Senthilkumar

Miriam Gutensohn, Mia Marino

Adeleine Oliva, Anushka Sharma

ROGO Robotics Team

Junior Presents at National Biomedical Engineering Conference

For many, public speaking on any topic can evoke anxiety, nervousness, and fear. Imagine presenting at the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) national conference at age 16. Meet Priyasha Itani, a junior at Upper St. Clair High School, who clearly possesses superpowers.

Priyasha presented her research, titled “The Cellular and Tissue Level Analysis of Endometriosis Angiogenesis” at the conference in October 2022, in San Antonio, Texas.

This annual biomedical engineering conference is a celebration of the contributions made by BMES members in research, teaching, education, and the workforce that directly impact many sectors of society. The event also highlights equity issues in healthcare and education stemming from racial and socioeconomic diversity, gender and sexual orientation, and disabilities.

Not only was Priyasha one of only 15 high school students selected to present, her published research poster, abstract, and presentation were honored by the BMES, placing third from more than 350 entries in the scientific poster competition.

“I am proud to not only have gotten the opportunity to display my passion for this research project amongst a crowd of such inspiring individuals but to also raise awareness for endometriosis and the disparities facing women’s health,” said Priyasha.

Affecting ten percent of all women worldwide, endometriosis is a high-prevalence gynecological disease characterized by the presence of uterine-like tissue growing outside the uterine cavity. Symptoms may include chronic pelvic pain, excessive bleeding, and infertility.

“Despite these terrifying statistics, there is still a seven-year delay in diagnosis and the disease is still one of the most underfunded fields of research today,” Priyasha said. “This means that there is very little known about how the disease develops and progresses through stages I–IV, leading to disputes about diagnostic guidelines and measures as well as treatment options from both research and clinical perspectives.”

The primary objective of Priyasha’s research was to study the development and progression of the disease through its angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels.

“Using this approach, I studied the effects that estrogen levels and immune dysfunction held on the disease’s development,” she said. “We conducted this research with the hopes of gaining a novel understanding of the disease pathogenesis as well as creating a model for the disease’s growth.”

Priyasha completed an internship as a research assistant at the Vascular Bioengineering Laboratory (VBL) at the University of Pittsburgh’s Swanson School of Engineering, where she conducted her research.

“I am thankful for Dr. David Vorp, director of VBL, Dr. Justin Weinbaum, associate director of the lab, and my mentor, Isabelle Chickanosky, Ph.D. candidate, all of whom I had worked under and gained guidance from while working on this project,” she said. “I cannot be grateful enough for this experience as it made me realize even further how much I love the research field.”

In particular, Priyasha loved the rush of running back and forth from the lab to hospitals, with an ice pack full of Eppendorf tubes containing diseased tissue samples.

“Most importantly, on these hospital runs, I got the opportunity to converse with the women who donated those very tissue samples as they shared their own individual experiences with endometriosis,” she said. “These visits allowed me to connect with the patients and most importantly, see the people behind the disease itself and I was honored to have raised awareness for their very stories on a national stage like BMES.”

The BMES national conference provided Priyasha a different type of opportunity for connection.

“I loved being able to connect with a wide variety of individuals at BMES, whether it be explaining scientific jargon to the general public, discussing the inner workings of microfluidics with scientists, or even presenting my entire presentation in Spanish to a native-speaking Spanish-speaking judge!” she said. “To me, science is a community, bringing together ideas, innovation, and people, and allowing us to support and inspire one another.”

As a junior, Priyasha has time to consider her post-high school opportunities as she remains focused on making a difference in women’s health.

“With amazing experiences like this, I would like to continue my scientific journey, hoping to pursue a career as a physicianscientist, and one day, change the landscape of women’s reproductive health services,” she said.

Priyasha is an active member of the Upper St. Clair High School community and holds several leadership roles in student organizations. She serves as president of Almighty Voices, vice-president of USC Speech & Debate, and manager for Generations Giving Back at Paramount. In addition, she participates in several STEM and STEAM initiatives, as well as the I Look Like a Cardiologist program through the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. n

Priyasha with her poster at the BMES Conference

USCHS Celebrates African American History

This February, the USC High School Black Student Union (BSU) hosted a month-long celebration that included a schoolwide trivia contest, performances, and a leadership workshop to commemorate and celebrate Black History Month.

The BSU is sponsored by high school teachers Daniela Buccilli, English, and Cephus Moore, world language.

Under the theme “Lift Every Voice: Celebrating African American Contributions,” a weekly trivia contest challenged students to identify several African American historical and contemporary figures. The contest, which yielded more than 1000 responses, highlighted individuals who have made significant contributions in the areas of math, science, English, social studies, and the arts.

The BSUs from Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon high schools joined together to attend a sold-out matinee performance of “Step Afrika!” on February 2 at the Byham Theater. The performers integrated songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. The live performance was a blend of percussive dance styles as practiced by historically African American college fraternities and sororities, traditional West and Southern African dances, and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive,

Spelling Bee Champ

Raana Parchuri, a seventh grader at Fort Couch, was crowned champion of the 2023 Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee, advancing to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Bee Week 2023 will take place from May 28 to June 2 in National Harbor, Maryland.

Raana is no stranger to the Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee. He won the regional competition in 2020 as a fourth grader, and in 2021, he finished second.

Raana qualified for the regional spelling bee by finishing first at the school-level event. Other school-level winners from Upper St. Clair included Jasneh Kaur, Baker Elementary School; Viktor Misic, Eisenhower Elementary School; Sailee Kumar, Streams Elementary School; and Luka Beric, Boyce Middle School. Luka was unable to attend the regional event; therefore, the first runner-up from Boyce, Aanya Jha, qualified for and competed in the Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee.

The Upper St. Clair school-level spelling bees, open to students in grades 4–8, were sponsored by the USC Parent Teacher Council and each school’s parent organization. n

compelling artistic experience.

Upper St. Clair welcomed students from Chartiers Valley High School on February 21 as students from the two schools participated in a joint in-school learning experience titled, “USC BSU: Building Student Unity.” Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of unity-building exercises.

“The benefits and values embedded in meeting peers from other schools include the promotion of cultural exchange and a sense of belonging to the wider world of Pittsburgh,” said Daniella. “Additionally, it can create opportunities for collaboration and the sharing of ideas that enhance educational experiences for all involved.”

The USCHS Performing Arts Department celebrated African American contributions to music. The Jazz Ensemble performed in the theater lobby alongside a table that featured information about African American contributions to music as well as information about different genres of music. In addition, the Pantheon Choir performed the hymn and poem titled, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” during the high school morning announcements. n

Two Named Junior

Women of Achievement

High school junior Priyasha Itani and Audrey Wetterau, a Fort Couch seventh grader, were honorees at the 2023 Women of Achievement Awards, sponsored by the nonprofit Cribs for Kids. The Women of Achievement Awards is an annual ceremony dedicated to highlighting the incredible feats and accomplishments of women in the Pittsburgh region.

Priyasha is completing a research internship at the Vascular Bioengineering Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh’s Swanson School of Engineering. Last fall, she presented her research, titled “The Cellular and Tissue Level Analysis of Endometriosis Angiogenesis” at the Biomedical Engineering Society national conference in San Antonio, Texas.

Audrey founded Socks With A Mission (SWAM) four years ago, as a fourth grader. After learning that socks are among the items most needed by unsheltered people who are homeless and the number one item requested at homeless shelters, Audrey immediately began working on her first sock collection drive and SWAM was established. To date, the organization has delivered more than 60,000 socks to men, women, and children. n

Raana Parchuri

Audrey Wetterau and Priyasha Itani

Sixth Grade Flutist Earns International Honors

For the second year in a row, Boyce student Arjun Kairi placed first in the Crescendo International Music Competition. Arjun, a sixth grader, delivered his award-winning flute performance this past January at New York City’s Carnegie Hall.

Arjun, age 11, first began his flute studies at The Pittsburgh Music Academy at age three. He currently participates in sixth grade band at Boyce Middle School, led by Craig Madge. n

Sophomore Sings with Pittsburgh Orchestra

This past February, Upper St. Clair High School sophomore Elliott Bruno sang with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra as part of the HamlischPage Student Choir in the symphony’s upcoming performances of “The Music of John Williams” at Heinz Hall.

Christine Hestwood, Upper St. Clair’s middle school strings teacher and high school orchestra conductor, serves as conductor of the Hamlisch-Page Student Choir. Lorraine Milovac, Upper St. Clair choral director, is the choir’s accompanist. The student choir was created by the late Principal Pops conductor Marvin Hamlisch and Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh music director emeritus Robert Page. n

USCHS Orchestra Performs for First Graders

This past January, nearly 300 first graders enjoyed an orchestra concert designed specifically for them at Upper St. Clair High School. The inaugural event was planned by Christine Hestwood, middle school strings teacher and high school orchestra conductor.

“This is the first-ever performance of this kind,” said Christine. “Second and fourth graders have the opportunity to travel to Heinz Hall for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s Schooltime concerts. I wanted to provide something special for our first graders.”

The high school orchestra performed “In the Hall of the Mountain King” by Edvard Grieg and “Carnival of the Animals” by Camille SaintSaëns. The two pieces are taught in Upper St. Clair’s elementary school general music program. n

Arjun Kairi

Elliott Bruno

Students Participate in PMEA Performances

Sixteen Selected for Region 1 Chorus Festival

Sixteen Upper St. Clair High School students were selected through competitive audition to participate in the 2023 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Region 1 Chorus Festival. The following students represented Upper St. Clair this February at the festival: Grace Kelly—Soprano 1, Rebecca Lang—Soprano 1, Reese Copenhaver—Soprano 2, Ella Elkoni—Alto 1, Phoebe Glunt—Alto 1, Opal Miller—Alto 1, Isabel Vilensky—Alto 1, Santina Guarino—Alto 2, Edy McCurry— Alto 2, Sia Iyer—Alto 2, Colin Eccher—Tenor 1, Greg Boughner—Tenor 2, Noah Levine—Tenor 2, Elliot Bruno—Bass 1, Owen Damon—Bass 1, John Marsh—Bass 2. The Upper St. Clair students are led by Lorraine Milovac, music teacher and choral director.

Sixth Grader Wins Shakespeare Monologue Contest

Boyce sixth grader Kaaveri Patil tied for first-place in the Lower Division Monologues category at the 29th annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest at Pittsburgh Public Theater. Kaaveri performed as Helena from A Midsummer Night’s Dream during the Showcase of Finalists this February, at the O’Reilly Theater.

In addition to Kaaveri’s winning monologue, a team of USCHS students was one of five finalists in the Upper Division Scenes category. Performing a scene from Henry IV were sophomores Ishaan Sharma (Falstaff) and Armen Pettit (Hall).

The following Upper St. Clair students earned Honorable Mention:

• Boyce: Lindsey Fitzgerald (Lady Macbeth), Macbeth

Four Advance to PMEA Region 1 Band

Four Upper St. Clair High School musicians were selected through competitive audition to participate in the PMEA Region 1 Band in March. Musicians include senior Ben Wasson—trombone, as well as juniors Isaac Bernstein—percussion, Gabe Pacella—trumpet, and Lauren Tenney—clarinet.

Upper St. Clair High School musicians are led by Dr. John Seybert, performing arts curriculum leader and director of high school bands.

• Boyce: Mira Murthy (Helena), A Midsummer Night’s Dream

• Boyce: Kriti Kulkarni (Helena), A Midsummer Night’s Dream

• Fort Couch: Ian Putorti (Edgar/Poor Tom), Trevor McClintock-Comeaux (Gloucester), Ryland DeStefano (Old Man), King Lear

• USCHS: Kaia Petrick (Bottom), Pritika Gupta (Quince), Anoushka Barve (Others), A Midsummer Night’s Dream

• USCHS: Sara Gillespie (Valentine), Zahra Hossain (Proteus), Two Gentlemen of Verona n

PMEA District 1 Honors String Orchestra

After competitive audition, four Upper St. Clair musicians were selected for the PMEA District 1 Honors String Orchestra. Irene Yap—violin1, Miriam Gutensohn— violin 1, Liam Park—cello, and Rebecca Lang—bass performed at Fox Chapel Area High School, with Dr. Robert Gardner as guest conductor. The students are led by Christine Hestwood, middle school strings teacher and high school orchestra conductor. n

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization of more than 4500 members, dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The organization supports quality music education, learning, and performance as well as promoting music education in schools and communities. PMEA is affiliated with The National Association for Music Education.

Kaaveri Patil

Ben Wasson Isaac Bernstein Gabe Pacella Lauren Tenney

Art & Writing Competition Honors Nine

Nine USCHS artists and writers have earned recognition for 17 entries in the annual Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. Awards include two Gold Keys, seven Silver Keys, and eight Honorable Mentions.

Two portraits created by Marianna Paradise, a junior, received the program’s highest honor—the Gold Key. Marianna’s artwork in the Digital Art and Drawing & Illustration categories now advances to the national level competition.

The following artwork and writing entries from Upper St. Clair High School students earned regional recognition:

Art Competition

Marianna Paradise, grade 11:

• Gold Key, Digital Art, June (shown below)

• Gold Key, Drawing & Illustration, Patricia (shown below)

• Silver Key, Drawing & Illustration, Mari

Julia Campagna, grade 9:

• Honorable Mention, Sculpture, Intertwined

Natalie Campagna, grade 11

• Honorable Mention, Fashion, Fairytale

• Honorable Mention, Fashion, Peaches and Jeans

• Honorable Mention, Fashion, Yin Yang Crystal Crochet

Writing Competition

Aahna Sinha, grade 11

• Silver Key, Poetry, “Sandalwood”

Frankie Dubreil, grade 10

• Silver Key, Short Story, “existential crisis: a brief study of panic attacks and the unseen”

Markella Jahn, grade 12

• Silver Key, Poetry, “biscuits”

• Honorable Mention, Short Story, “The Tiger Aunt—A Retelling”

Luke McDonough, grade 11

• Silver Key, Dramatic Script, “Prospero”

• Honorable Mention, Dramatic Script, “Nikolas & Albert”

• Honorable Mention, Poetry, “If I Were Lucky”

Nikhita Thakuria, grade 10

• Silver Key, Short Story, “The Colors”

• Silver Key, Poetry, “On Listening to Your Teacher Take Attendance”

Jenny Wang, grade 11

• Honorable Mention, Poetry, “Beyond a Story”

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, open to students in grades 7–12, recognize student achievement in the visual and literary arts in 28 categories, including editorial cartoon, poetry, digital art, fashion, photography, sculpture, short story, poetry and more. n

USCHS Pair Earn Top Honors at Model UN

The Upper St. Clair High School co-delegation of Theeya Chen and Isabel Vilensky were awarded Outstanding Delegation for representing China on the INTERPOL Committee at the annual Duquesne University Model United Nations High School Conference. The event was held this past February at Duquesne University’s campus.

Outstanding Delegation is the conference’s top award and represents Upper St. Clair’s highest finish of the year. In total, nine Upper St. Clair High School students participated in the regional event. The students were coached by Thomas Yochum, gifted education teacher.

In addition to Theeya and Isabel, other USCHS participants included Jamie Barrett, Anoushka Barve, Prachi Chetlur, Jasmine Dietiker, Anna Engelman, Lucia Miles, and Medha Misra.

Model UN, a simulation of the sessions of the United Nations, provides an opportunity for high school students to apply their studies to real-world contexts and practice diplomacy, negotiating, and resolution writing.

Four Named Presidential Scholar Candidates

Four USCHS seniors were recently named candidates in the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, and Jason Lu were selected for their outstanding performance on the SAT or ACT exam. They are among 198 Pennsylvania students to earn this honor.

Students Earn High Marks at Japanese Contest

This March, Upper St. Clair High School students swept the Poster and Beginner Speech categories and placed first and second in the Advanced Plus and Intermediate speech categories respectively at the 2023 High School Japanese Speech Contest.

The following students earned top finishes:

• Poster category: first-place, Lindsay Ross; second-place, Maxen Thomas; third-place, Mazell McTeer

• Beginner Speech category: first-place, Connor Hyatt; second-place, Evie Ellenberger; thirdplace, Dhruv Dileep

• Intermediate Speech category: second-place, Arden McPherson

• Advanced Plus Speech category: first-place, Shrida Devaki

To Upper St. Clair High School’s Japanese teacher, Chie Ramsey, all of the participating students are winners as she believes it is important to understand different languages and cultures. In addition to the top finishers, the following USCHS students participated in the 2023 High School Japanese Speech Contest:

• Poster (PowerPoint) category: Chihiro Brentzel, Sebastian Disipio, Ryan Hyatt, and Yasmeen Zalloum

• Beginner Speech category: Aadi Markose

• Intermediate Speech category: Celena Brentzel and Ari Henderson

• Heritage Speech category: Yuzuki Watanabe

The annual event, which draws more than 80 students each year, is cohosted by the JapanAmerica Society of Pennsylvania and the University of Pittsburgh’s Asian Studies Center. Japanese language learners of all levels compete against other area students in the speech contest, and nonlanguage students can compete in the poster contest. Students are required to write a speech on the chosen topic for the speech contest or make a presentation for the poster session. This year’s topic was “Meibutsu” Specialty Foods.

Nine Advance as National Merit Finalists

Nine USCHS seniors were recently named Finalists in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program. Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, Ansh Goyal, Peer Khan, Jason Lu, Phillip Markovitz, Lauren Starr, and Benjamin Wasson were selected on the basis of their SAT scores, grades, essays, and letters of recommendation.

In September 2022, these Upper St. Clair students were named Semifinalists in the competition for scoring in the top one percent of all juniors completing the PSAT in October 2021.

As Finalists, the Upper St. Clair seniors are now competing for National Merit Scholarships that will be offered and announced this spring. The program awards three types of scholarships: National Merit $2,500 Scholarships, Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarships, and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships.

For more information regarding the National Merit Scholarship Program, visit nationalmerit.org.

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, Ansh Goyal, Peer Khan, Jason Lu, Phillip Markovitz, Lauren Starr, Benjamin Wasson

Theeya Chen and Isabel Vilensky

Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, Jason Lu

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

Sixth Graders Advance in History, Geography, and Science Bees

Fort Couch Earns Silver at America Bowl

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

Three Boyce Middle School sixth graders qualified to advance to the national and international levels of the History Bee, Geography Bee, and Science Bee competitions. Arjun Kairi and Max Reyes placed first in the History and Science bees, respectively; and Avik Pandey placed second in the Science Bee. In addition, Max placed third in the History Bee, qualifying for national and international competitions. With a third-place finish, Arjun qualified for nationals in the Geography Bee.

A team of Fort Couch students finished second among 35 teams in the annual America Bowl history competition this past February. The team included eighth graders Josh Beitler, Rohan Inampudi, and Callum Pollock, as well as seventh grader Malo Dubreil.

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

The America Bowl challenges students in grades 3–5 and 6–8 to answer both team and individual questions within six categories: Pittsburgh History, States, Presidents, Things to See in America, Early America, and Government.

This marks the second year in a row that Arjun and Avik will compete at the National History Bee and National Science Bee, respectively. Last year, competing at the elementary level, both students advanced to the national quarterfinals. Last year, Max qualified for the national level of competition for the National Science Bee, but opted not to go.

The Upper St. Clair students were coached by Thomas Yochum, gifted education teacher.

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

USCHS Places at German Day

Upper St. Clair High School students earned three third-place finishes at the 23rd annual Three Rivers German Day competition this March.

Junior Joe Donnelly, a student in IB German 4, won third-place in the technology category by using AI art-generating tools to create a visual depiction of Germany’s passion for soccer in the style of an abstract oil painting.

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

Earning third-place in the music category was Frau Lynne Kopaz’s Passport to German class for its performance of the song “Wunder” by Andreas Bourani. Gigi Burkett, McKenzey Mack, Sydney Ellis, Aiden Kotyk, James Gardner, Ethan Lin, Michael Oliverio, Benny Spatz, Auri Tarabishy, and Joseph Sawyer sang the song in German while signing the words in German sign language.

In total, 35 Upper St. Clair students participated in the German Day activities. The high school students are members of the school’s German Club and are enrolled in Passport to German, IB German 4, and IB German 5 classes.

Herr Jacob Reis’s International Baccalaureate (IB) German 4 class placed third in the drama competition. Ethan Jooste, Ryan Arya, Max Gresh, Theeya Chen, Violet Swigart, and Maya Kashak wrote and performed a dark, murder mystery version of “Snow White” with a cast of nine students.

According to the event’s website, every year approximately 400 students from many middle and high schools in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia compete in German Day’s linguistic, artistic, and performance-based competitions. 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.

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

Arjun Kairi, Avik Pandey, Max Reyes

Josh Beitler, Rohan Inampudi, Callum Pollock, Malo Dubreil

Council

Shanna Caplan, President

The PTC is grateful to be a part of such an amazing community! We cannot say thank you enough for all the support we have from parents and the administration. That support has allowed our committees to provide events like Arts in USC. We are thrilled that this event was held in person this year. Our Wellness committee has also been able to collaborate on events such as the “Listen Lucy Program,” a variety of Mental Health Awareness Week activities, as well as many other programs earlier in the year. Partners in Education has grown this year and included events such as Coffee Connection and Adult Nights, allowing parents to come together and support each other. They hosted a “Sensory-Friendly Movie Night” event for students with special education and sensory-friendly needs.

Our volunteers go above and beyond to provide events and programs for our students and their families. We cannot do it without all of you. Your support and volunteering are greatly appreciated! For those who do not know, the PTC is an umbrella organization that brings the district’s PTA/PTOs/PTSOs together. We provide leadership and coordination for these units. We provide the districtwide Student Directory. Our committees work with the individual units to provide STEAM and Wellness programs, and coordinate the Spelling Bee and Arts in USC. Our Partners in Education committee provides support to families with students receiving Special Education.

For more information on how you can get involved, contact any PTC/PTO/PTA/ PTSO member to get you connected to the right person or email the PTC president at uscptcpresident@gmail.com.

High School PTSO

Kelly

Powell, President

“The days are long but the years are short”—poignant and truthful words from Gretchen Rubin. Here we are already approaching the end of another school year, yet it feels like we all snapped our back-to-school photos just a moment ago. Homecoming came and went in a blink, winter break was over as quickly

as it arrived, and somehow prom and graduation plans are almost complete. The warm sunshine will soon usher in lazy summer days, and the bustling hallways will soon rest in the well-earned stillness of summer break. There is so much to be thankful for as this school year comes to a close. The USCHS PTSO executive board—Leria Miles, Tim Wagner, Anju Saggi, John Biedrzycki, Bridget Gaussa, and Kelly Powell—is profoundly grateful for the incredibly supportive USC school administration, teachers, staff, and families. We couldn’t do what we do without you!

To our graduating class of 2023— we wish you happiness beyond measure and success beyond your wildest dreams. We are so excited to celebrate all of your accomplishments at the end of the school year!

As we look ahead to the next academic year, I encourage all of our parents to consider getting involved with the USCHS PTSO. Whether you have just a few hours to spare or are able to take on a leadership role, your contributions will make a real difference for our students and our school. Just let us know by emailing ptsopresident. uschs@gmail.com.

Fort Couch PTSO

Carrie Fick, President

This school year has flown by! It’s been a tremendous honor to serve as the PTSO president. My main goal for this year was to help re-establish normalcy for our students and staff, by filling the calendar with many joyful social events and activities. Although we did not replace everything that the kids lost over the past few years, I think we made a pretty big dent! This would not have been possible without the dedication of the hard-working PTSO executive board—Sarah Beitler, Elizabeth Taylor, Michelle Urban, Amy Quevedo, Eliza Luxbacher, and Erin Peterson. Thank you to the committee chairs and to the parent volunteers, who worked hard to make it all happen!

I would like to recognize the leaders of our school, principal Erin Peterson and assistant principal Gordon Mathews. They seamlessly stepped into their new roles and have paved the way for a successful school year with their positive

attitudes, approachability, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Some of our year-end events at the school include a Spring Fling charcuterie table staff appreciation event, Field Day, the Fort Couch musical, concerts, spring sports, an eighth grade farewell celebration, and much more!

Parents who are interested in getting involved with the PTSO next year should email ftcouchptso@gmail.com to learn more. Join the executive board, chair a committee, come to meetings. There is something for everyone!

Erica Baldasare, President

The Boyce PTO and its volunteers are working hard to make the final events of the year ones to remember for our students.

In May, our sixth grade students will be traveling to Deer Valley for the Earthwarden Program. At the end of May, students have the opportunity to showcase their work to their families Celebration of Learning. In late-May/early-June, our graduating sixth graders have the opportunity to visit Fort Couch during the school day and meet the staff. Around the same time, incoming fouth graders from each elementary school will be able to tour Boyce and meet our wonderful staff.

The last few days of school in June are packed with excitement and activities for our students. We kick off the month with a virtual visit from middle school author, Gordon Korman. Students will enjoy a day outside playing games as part of the PTO sponsored Field Day! Then as a final-wrap up to the school year, we will send our sixth graders off in style with a graduation party on the field.

In mid-August, the Boyce PTO will host its annual Welcome Night. Students can find their homerooms/team hallways, students/families can explore the building, and parents can pay their PTO activity fee, which funds all of the wonderful activities mentioned here. The Boyce PTO attempts

PTC

Boyce PTO

a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

to limit the amount of fundraising activities families are exposed to, and instead plans our annual budget on successfully collecting the per-student activity fee. With your financial committment, we are able to provide the students with all of the wonderful programs and enrichment that we do.

As I wrap up my time as the Boyce PTO president, I extend my sincere thanks to the entire Boyce executive board, all of Boyce committee chairs, and all of our parent volunteers. Without all of you and your dedication the Boyce PTO would not be what it is today.

Baker PTA

Kristen McIntyre, President

Looking back, what a year this has been! In addition to our traditional PTA events and activities, this year has been particularly special and rewarding because of our relationship with Friendship Village, a local USC senior living facility, and its residents. Baker PTA initially teamed up with Friendship Village in 2020 as part of our Outreach Committee efforts, and it has become a very special partnership. Through the Baker Gives Back club, students made banners for the residents for Thanksgiving, Veteran’s Day, Valentine’s Day, and spring. Students also made hundreds of holiday cards and notes for the residents as part of the Notes for Neighbors project in December, and again in February for Valentine’s Day. Some of the residents from Friendship Village even came to Baker as special guest readers as part of our annual Read-a-Thon in March. The students and residents really enjoy these activities and we are looking forward to continuing the partnership next school year!

We will be wrapping up the school year with our traditional end-of-year activities, including our annual Field Day, a favorite event where the students make their way through various stations set up throughout Baker Park and enjoy a day of outdoor fun (in the sun, hopefully) with each other before summer break.

Many thanks to our wonderful parent volunteers for their commitment to the Baker community this year and every year. We would not be able to do what we do

without them! I have thoroughly enjoyed serving as PTA president this year and I look forward to supporting the new PTA board next year.

Eisenhower PTO Jenny Hecht, President

As we bring this school year to a close, we can all take time to reflect on what a wonderful year that it has been! Thank you to all of the students, parents, teachers, custodians, and volunteers who make everything possible! The Eisenhower hallways were filled with learning and laughter all year long. We welcomed a new kindergarten teacher this year and she was kind enough to share a little about herself and reflect on her wonderful year with the district.

Hello Eisenhower families! My name is Jaclyn Reed. I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to teach your little ones and to be part of such an incredible district. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Washington and Jefferson College. I will have completed my 15th year of teaching at the end of this school year. My husband recently retired from the U.S. Air Force after 21 years of service. The military granted me the opportunity to teach in North Carolina, Florida, and Colorado. We have a son named Nolan (8) and a daughter named Blakely (3 years old). I love to bake, travel, and spend time with my family.

This is my second year in the district and I am truly overwhelmed with the amount of dedication, kindness, and positive energy that this community encompasses. I have taught in all three elementary schools and each one has exceeded my expectations. Over the past two years, I have built relationships with students and parents that allow us to work as a team to ensure that students reach their full potential.

Streams

Michelle

PTO

Faulds, President

As the summer months approach and our school year comes to an end, I gratefully reflect on the past year and my experiences as the Streams PTO president. It has been an honor to work with so many wonderful people at Streams and throughout the District. I would like to especially thank the members of the executive board—

Jennifer Clougherty, Brittany Weiler, Sarah Tannenbaum, Julie Moran, our principal, Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer, and our teacher representative, Carrie Dunbar—who gave their time to provide our children with such a great school year. I would also like to thank this year’s committee chairs, volunteers, and parents. Without this amazing group of people, the activities and events that make Streams so special would not be possible.

Upper St. Clair School District Calendar 2023–2024

Aug 23 Grades 1–12 First Day of School

Aug 25 Kindergarten First Day of School

Sep 4 No School–Labor Day

Oct 27 No School–Teacher

In-service

Nov 1 No School–Teacher

In-service

Nov 7 No School–Teacher

In-service

Nov 22–24 No School–Thanksgiving Recess

Dec 22 Half Day/Early Dismissal

Dec 25–29 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 1 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 15 No School–Teacher

In-service

Jan 22 No School–Teacher

In-service

Feb 19 No School–Teacher

In-service

Mar 25–29 No School–Spring Recess

Apr 1 No School–Teacher

In-service

Apr 23 No School–Teacher

In-service

May 27 No School–Memorial Day

Jun 6 High School Commencement

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

Jun 7 Teacher In-service

fans were treated to one of the last classic musicals of the 20th century as Upper St. Clair High School students performed On the Twentieth Century , directed by Thomas Hunsberger. A winner of five Tony Awards and a Best Musical nominee, the show was originally produced in 1978 and was last seen on Broadway in 2015.

In this madcap musical, the cast brought to life the story of the behindthe-scenes relationship between Lily, a temperamental actress and Oscar, a bankrupt theatre producer. On a luxury train traveling from Chicago to New York in the early 1930s, Oscar tries to cajole the glamorous Hollywood star into playing the lead in his new, but not-yetwritten drama, and perhaps to rekindle their romance.

In addition to their stellar performances, the cast and crew collected donations for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The $1720 that was raised is being contributed through Team Rise Against Cancer, headed by USCHS students Greg Boughner and Luke McDonough. n

Photo credit: Maanasa Reddy (TODAY intern) and Jane Dodd

Boyce Spreads Kindness

The Boyce Middle School community recently raised nearly $3000 to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Pittsburgh. In addition, students collected several large boxes of supplies to help restock the organization’s pantry, which is used by families during their stay at the Ronald McDonald House.

The community service project was one component of the school’s Random Acts of Kindness Week, which was held this February. The effort was led by school counselors Amy Antonio and Tonia Autieri and the Boyce Middle School Student Council Outreach Committee.

“The goal of Random Acts of Kindness Week is to bring more awareness to being kind and to celebrate how we can become a positive influence in each other’s lives,” Tonia said. “We reiterated in our guidance lessons how important it is to be respectful and kind to all people.”

As a Valentine’s Day fundraiser, students and families could purchase a Valentine Gram. In exchange for a donation, personalized notes, along with a Pop It, were delivered to students on Valentine’s Day. The goal was to raise $1000. Tonia was not surprised when they far exceeded that goal.

“I wasn’t surprised because our families are so giving and help with great causes all of the time,” she said. “It makes me feel very fortunate to be part of a community that values helping others and giving back. It’s amazing!”

The Ronald McDonald House Pittsburgh provides 74 single-family apartments to families with seriously ill children receiving medical treatment nearby. The pantry helps to provide additional support to families during their stay. Needed items included individually packaged snacks as well as single serving cereals, soups, and pasta. Each of Boyce’s eight teams was assigned to donate a non-perishable food item to help in the effort.

To kick-off Random Acts of Kindness Week, student mentors from the high school conducted an activity in each homeroom. The week featured theme days as well as intentional projects during guidance class that encouraged students to think about others. Students wrote positive notes to their Boyce teachers and sent cards to their former elementary teachers.

“This initiative is extremely important for our students and school community,” said Tonia. “In order to make a difference, we have to work together to bring kindness into the world. It starts with being kind to one another, which then can lead to others being kind to people outside our schools and into places like grocery stores, doctors’ offices, etc.”

All students received a “Tag, You’re It” card. As students completed random acts of kindness, their card was passed along to someone

else who, in turn, completed another random act of kindness.

In addition, students completed coloring pages to send to Color A Smile, a nonprofit organization that distributes cheerful drawings to senior citizens, U.S. troops overseas, and anyone in need of a smile.

“We talked to the kids about being leaders and showing others how kindness brings joy and positivity to situations,” said Tonia. “They can lead by example and be part of making a difference.” n

…and teachers dressed like students!

Supplies to help restock the pantry at the Ronald McDonald House of Pittsburgh

Students dressed like teachers…

Senior Year Reflections

Maanasa Reddy, TODAY Intern

As a senior, these last 12 years have been, like always, times of change. Whether going from the mod schedule to a block schedule, using 1–1 technology, or replacing traditional snow days with online learning, it seems like education is slowly becoming unrecognizable.

There are certainly changes to Upper St. Clair High School that have made the experience different. In 2004, there was a “Big Brother, Big Sister” program linking high schoolers and middle schoolers, much like the Junior Mentors who go down to the middle schools today. The time period itself has its own distinct impact. In November 2003, the most popular TV show amongst USCHS students was Friends—just months before the show ended. Frosted tips and flip phones don’t tend to be all that common in 2023 either.

But is the high school experience really all that different?

I looked to the USCHS yearbook, Clairvoyant, for my answer. This year’s seniors were mainly born in 2004, so I started my search there. The opening sentences were sentiments many of my fellow seniors know all too well: “Pressure is everywhere. Pressure to excel in the classroom and on the field. Pressure to meet new people.” No matter the changes added to high school, teenage life seems to remain the same.

Emily Barrie, a senior at the high school, weighed in: “We all

feel the same things our parents did back then. Academic and social stress I believe are relatable no matter the generation.” The words of the 2004 yearbook still seem to ring true today, no matter who is asked.

Each of the early 2000s yearbooks I reviewed contained bittersweet senior nostalgia, which I imagine is already finding its way into the 2023 edition of the yearbook. These formative years in high school tend to be a period of growth and also the end of a chapter for many.

On a less serious note, in a poll done the same year, students were asked what they did after school. The most popular responses were “homework,” “watch TV,” and “sleep.” I daresay, based on careful observation (and my own experience), this has not changed. The common senior routine of stumbling into homeroom with a gallon of Dunkin’ coffee, and the ruthlessness of the spork game seem ever-constant as well.

Perhaps the senior class of 2093 will be coming to school by way of levitation. Regardless, they still cannot free themselves from the cliches of the teenage experience.

Ultimately, the flared leggings and curtain bangs of today may very well become the popcorn shirts and graphic tees of yesteryear, but it seems like the trials and tribulations of teenagedom never really fade, Chromebook or not. n

Local History Museum Started at USCHS

Emily Barrie, TODAY Intern

What do the following have in common: An Upper St Clair yearbook from the 1960s, a doctor’s bag from the 20th century, and an original report card from the Gilfillan family? These are just some of the items that will be on display in the coming months at Upper St. Clair’s first local history museum.

The project of establishing the museum is being undertaken by the Local Historical Leaders Club (LHL) with the help of the Upper St. Clair Historical Society, specifically Rachel Carlson, Carolyn Friedrich, and Dr. Timothy Wagner. As told by LHL co-president Aashna Banerjee, the inspiration to start a museum was “the fact that places like Mt. Lebanon had places to share local history, but Upper St. Clair did not. We felt it was our duty as a history club to do this.”

Aashna said the museum idea offered an amazing opportunity for club members to “step into the role of being a curator and learn the process of making a museum, researching artifacts and [learning] how to write descriptions for them. This project truly encapsulates the idea of bringing students together with history and having them take on the role of being a leader.”

The theme that was chosen for the museum is “Then and Now.” The artifacts on display will revolve around what was relevant to an Upper St. Clair student in the past versus the modern day. The goal is that all students will be able to find something that helps them relate to some aspect of the past and appreciate how far we have come since then. For example, relics pertaining to sports, the arts, academics, occupations, teaching, and the overall history of the students and school system of Upper St Clair will hopefully find a home in the museum. While

the Upper St Clair Historical Society has been most generous in lending countless photos, newspapers, textbooks, and other items from the Gilfillan Farmhouse to start the museum, the hope is that more items will be collected from residents across the community that contribute to the theme and purpose of the museum.

The museum will be located in the display cases next to the counseling office in the high school. In this central location, many students and faculty members will be able to appreciate the artifacts throughout the school year. On special occasions, such as Open House, other community members may have the chance to view the display.

The museum is scheduled for completion by the end of the 2022–2023 school year, and students are already getting excited about the upcoming addition to the school. When asked what she was looking forward to with the museum, Maanasa Reddy, a senior at the high school, explained, “I feel the museum is a way for students to be reminded of the way their own worlds are changing every day. It could give students perspective on the world around them and the history they themselves are living through.”

The creation of the museum curated by the student-led Local Historical Leaders club will certainly be an added bonus to the halls of Upper St. Clair High School, whether it be for educational purposes or just to connect to the past. n

To donate or lend an item to the museum collection, contact the Local Historical Leaders sponsor, Dr. Steve Torquato, at storquato@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Annual Wellness Visits Help to Prevent and Detect Illness

You are not alone if you’ve ever avoided or delayed health care, but there are some routine medical appointments that you just shouldn’t put off when you are older. Practitioners like Sabrina Platt, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, recommend an annual wellness visit for anyone who has Medicare, because seeing a provider when you’re healthy can help to keep you feeling that way.

The annual wellness visit is not a physical exam. It is an opportunity to work with a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant to create or update a personalized prevention plan based on your current health and risk factors. This yearly assessment of overall health enables your provider to determine how they can best support your continued well-being.

Prevent illness

“The primary purpose of an annual wellness visit is prevention. This is a series of questions and observations that can help your provider detect problems early to prevent more problems later,” said Sabrina, who practices with St. Clair Medical Group Internal Medicine.

It’s usually better to prevent than treat an illness. Scheduling an annual wellness visit means your provider can easily see changes in your health and catch problems at an earlier stage, when they are often easier to treat. According to Sabrina, “I am in a unique position to save a life even before it is at risk.”

Catch health problems early

While laboratory tests are not typically performed as part of the annual wellness visit, your practitioner may order laboratory tests or preventive health screenings based on your age, gender, medical history, and family history. These tools can help to detect health problems before there are any signs or symptoms.

As Sabrina explains, “Screenings and lab work are recommended because they can give us more information about a patient’s overall well-being. For instance, I cannot look at someone and tell if they have high cholesterol. But blood work can do that.”

Improve your overall health

Based on the results of any tests and screenings, your provider may recommend ways to maintain or improve your health as part of your personalized prevention plan. Sabrina shares an example: “Bone density scans can give us more information as to whether or not the patient would benefit from adding a supplement to their diet or beginning a medication. The goal, especially in this example, is to decrease the risk of bone fractures, especially if a patient were to fall.”

Establish a strong provider relationship

Additionally, the annual wellness visit is a great opportunity to build rapport with your primary care provider—someone who knows you and your health history. Sabrina says, “Annual wellness visits are not mandatory, but they are a great opportunity to get face-to-face time with your provider, tell them what is and isn’t working for you, and ask them what they can do about it.”

To make the most of your annual wellness visit, Sabrina recommends you bring written lists of your current medications,

health care providers, and any health questions or concerns you may have. The more a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant knows about your medical history, the better they can evaluate your overall wellness and offer personalized health advice.

“Seeing a health care provider once a year, especially when you are healthy, can decrease the risk of disease,” emphasizes Sabrina. “If health problems are caught early, they are more likely to respond to treatment—which can lead to a longer, healthier life free of disease-burden.” n

If you’ve had Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) for more than one year, you may be eligible for an annual wellness visit at no cost. Call 412-942-4000 or visit stclair.org/internalmedicine to schedule your annual wellness visit with a primary care provider within the St. Clair Medical Group network today.

Be here. Be home. Be at Providence Point.

Providence Point is now offering one-bedroom apartments with generous incentives. Choose from a variety of one-bedroom floor plans and enjoy the resort-like amenities offered on our premier, 32-acre Providence Point campus. Call now! 412-489-3550

Sabrina Platt, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC

Stay Ahead of the Game: NASSCO Inspections for Home Sellers in Upper Saint Clair

Jason Daugherty, Mister Sewer, Plumbing & HVAC Spring is just around the corner, and if you’re a homeowner looking to sell your home in Upper St. Clair, it’s crucial to consider a NASSCO inspection. NASSCO, or the National Association of Sewer Service Companies, provides sewer inspection services that can be valuable for potential home sellers.

Sewer inspections are a critical aspect of home maintenance that is often overlooked. A damaged or clogged sewer line can cause significant issues, including backups, blockages, and water damage. It can also lead to costly repairs or even the need for a complete replacement.

A NASSCO sewer inspection involves a comprehensive examination of the sewer system, usually conducted using a video camera inserted into the sewer line. The inspector will identify any issues with the sewer line, such as cracks, leaks, or blockages, as well as examine the condition of the pipes.

Having a NASSCO inspection can provide peace of mind to potential buyers and protect sellers from liability issues that may arise if the sewer system fails or causes damage to the property after the sale. In Upper St. Clair, a NASSCO inspection is required when selling a home.

As the weather warms up and the real estate market heats up, it’s essential to schedule a NASSCO inspection if you’re looking to sell your home this summer. Mister Sewer, Plumbing & HVAC employs NASSCO-certified technicians who are trained to conduct thorough inspections and identify any issues with your sewer system.

By having a NASSCO inspection, you can ensure that your property is in good condition, potentially increase the value of your home, and provide peace of mind to potential buyers. Don’t let sewer issues sink your sale this summer—schedule a NASSCO inspection with Mister Sewer, Plumbing & HVAC today. n See ad for Mr. Sewer, Plumbing & HVAC on page 76.

How It’s Made—Awning Edition

Lauren Costello, Mt. Lebanon Awning

An awning is a beautiful and functional addition to any home or business. But how are they made? Every building is different, meaning each awning is custom designed to fit a space. From start to finish, awning fabrication is a unique process.

We start by measuring the space a customer would like to cover. These custom measurements help determine which type of awning would be best, whether it be a stationary awning, porch awnings, welded frame entrance canopy, etc. A drawing is made with measurements, from which we order fabric and frame materials.

Modern technology has allowed machinery, such as CNC machines, to take over the pattern cutting. A pattern with the awning’s measurements is laid out in a CAD program and sent to the CNC machine for precise cutting. This method is time-saving and produces minimal fabric waste.

We “weld” the fabric roof panels of the awning together using a machine to vacuum and heat seal the seams. Gone are the days of sewn roof seams, allowing for a weather-tight seal for the roof

of the awning. The fabric wing patterns are put together with the roof using industrial sewing machines and sun-resistant thread. This ensures lasting durability for the awnings.

An awning frame is made of metal, usually aluminum or galvanized steel, depending on the application. Frames are assembled using galvanized fixtures, or welded, or sometimes both. Each piece of the frame is cut to size and assembled to the exact measurements.

Fabric awnings are tied to the frame using grommets and rope. This allows the cover to fit as tightly as possible to the frame, giving each awning a tight, water-repellent fit.

Awning fabrication is a decades-long tradition, that has been streamlined with the use of modern technology. Awnings are now more precise and durable than ever before, and customers can and do to enjoy their shade and weather protection benefits all throughout the year. n

See ad for Mt. Lebanon Awning on this page.

Three Design Decisions for Creating the Perfect Bathroom

Geoff and Christine McQueen

A remodeled bathroom adds value to your home, and every day you get to enjoy using a bath that’s beautiful and efficient. It’s also a big investment, so it’s important to plan a bathroom renovation with care. Five years after putting in a new bathroom, no homeowner wants to feel like the space already needs updating.

At McQueen Building Company, we take time to discuss exactly what a client wants and needs for their bathroom renovation. We strategize with them to use their budget wisely and help them make choices that will feel fresh but also timeless.

So, what should you keep in mind if you’re thinking about renovating a bathroom in your home?

Timeless style with on-trend accents. We hear from folks who love that the baths we design really do feel timeless. They’re not stuck in the style of a given year, and yet there are always details that feel really fresh and on trend.

Especially in a primary bathroom, we make that happen by ensuring that all the big-ticket items—things like wall and floor tile, shower enclosures and doors, tubs and vanities—can truly stand the test of time. For these items, we recommend a neutral color palette and high-quality, durable items that will look and function as beautifully in a decade as they do today.

Once those items are chosen, you can bring in of-the-moment styles through pieces that you might not mind replacing if your taste changes in a few years.

“You can keep the more expensive things pretty neutral, and then jazz it up with the things that are much easier to replace like plumbing or light fixtures,” Christine says. “Things like backsplash tile or floor tile are complicated to replace. But when gold goes out of style, it’s not difficult to take out your gold faucet and put in whatever new finishes are popular.”

You can also bring in your current favorite colors and styles through lush towels and rugs, and gorgeous wall art. You can always swap those items out if your style preferences evolve over the next few years.

What do you really use? Do you need a tub in your primary bath? Do you need two sinks? It’s entirely up to you.

It’s practical—and valuable for resale—to have at least one tub somewhere in your home. But some future buyer may want to remodel the primary bath for their own taste, so the absence of a tub in that room isn’t likely to be a deal breaker.

Clients often tell us they want their bath to feel like an oasis—a spa-like place they adore. We agree! The room where you begin each morning should be a space you love. So, make your choices about the number of sinks or the tub based on how much space you have and what you really will enjoy using.

The same goes for adding a water closet. Some homeowners find it incredibly important to have the toilet located in its own private space. Others don’t mind at all if the toilet isn’t concealed behind walls. Make that choice based on the space that you have and your own (and perhaps your partner’s!) preferences.

Perfect powder rooms. A powder room can be “the jewelry box of your home,” Christine says, so have fun with a bold color palette that delights you, or include stunning wallpaper in a dramatic pattern. People are only in this space momentarily, so a major dose of design doesn’t feel overwhelming.

But here’s the key. You’ve still got to keep function in mind. A sleek pedestal sink is great, but where do you put spare toilet paper and the plunger? If your powder room doesn’t have a closet or is too small to include a beautiful freestanding cabinet or other storage piece, it’s important to choose a sink with a closed cabinet underneath. n

To learn more, visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com and be sure to follow along on social media. See their ad on page 72.

Photo credit: Erin Kelly

Protect Your Green Investments with Plant Health Care

Richard Till, ISA Certified Arborist with Davey Tree Pittsburgh South Hills Office

When trees grow in the forest, they have everything they need to thrive. The leaf litter that falls onto the forest floor each year breaks down and nourishes trees with optimum nutrition. The soil is rich and undisturbed and not much stops tree roots from growing and thriving. But in your home landscape, your trees and shrubs don’t have the same luxuries. The topsoil has been disturbed by home building, leaving few nutrients, and your plants face more stress and traffic. This is why a plant health care program can be beneficial for your landscape trees. Plant health care (PHC) is a way to holistically manage your property’s trees and shrubs with routine monitoring and preventive treatments.

Let’s look at the five key benefits that proactive plant health care services can bring to your home landscape.

1. Maintain vital soil nutrients. In your home landscape, you remove fallen leaves and twigs to keep your yard looking clean. While this is helpful for improving your curb appeal, it removes beneficial nutrients from reaching the soil. On top of that, you have grass next to your trees and shrubs, which looks great in your yard but does add competition for water and nutrients to your trees and shrubs. Fertilization as part of a PHC program can provide your plants with these essential nutrients they’re missing. Properly mulching your trees with shredded hardwood mulch can also help replenish nutrients lost in your soil over time.

2. Restore. You enjoy your yard with your family, playing tag with your kids and fetch with your dog, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. But over time, this foot traffic adds up, compacting your soil. This can restrict root growth. Through PHC, mixing organic matter into your soil can help relieve this compaction.

3. Manage tree root space. Healthy roots are extremely important

for the optimum growth of your plants.

If your tree roots run into obstacles, such as roads, sidewalks, or even your home, this limits their growth. Address this plant health care challenge by improving tree root systems through proper fertilization, as well as sufficient watering during dry spells.

4. Protect trees and shrubs from pests and diseases. Pests and diseases are opportunistic and can take advantage of weak trees. Even worse, if left unchecked, pests and diseases can cause quite a bit of damage to your plants.

Regular tree care health assessments can help quickly diagnose and treat pest and disease problems before they severely diminish the health of your plants.

5. Prevent and treat physical damage. Your landscape plants can take a beating from quite a few things on your property, including wild animals like deer, and even lawn mowers and string trimmers that accidentally damage tree trunks or plant root systems. These injuries can introduce opportunities for pathogens and pests to attack your tree. Avoiding unnecessary damage to healthy tissue and trimming broken limbs as part of routine tree maintenance through a PHC program can ensure the long-term life of your green assets. n

If you have more questions about plant health care, contact Davey for a free tree inspection and consultation. See ad on this page.

Ten Suggestions for Preparing Your Home for the Spring/Summer 2023 Market

Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®

Are you thinking about listing your home in 2023? Now is a perfect time to start organizing and tackling home improvement projects to help increase your property’s value.

1. Add a fresh coat of paint. Pinterest or your local paint store can help you choose the best color to paint your home. A fresh coat of paint always lightens and brightens a room. Choose neutral colors so the new buyer can work within their own color scheme.

2. Refresh your kitchen. Many buyers zero in on the kitchen, as it is usually the gathering place of the home. Home is where the heart is, so make the kitchen ‘pop!” Is time to refresh your kitchen appliances and update your décor? Again, neutral colors work best. Having the same finish on your appliances is a bonus. Stainless steel, black, or white—make sure all appliances match.

3. Clean your home and declutter. It is important prior to listing your home to do deep cleaning. It is worth the extra money to have all of the carpets cleaned and your entire home, too. Take the time to overhaul the excess junk and unwanted items. Goodwill, veterans’ organizations, church rummage sales, or even your own garage sale are good ways to eliminate your unwanted belongings.

4. Consider curb appeal. Simple things like new plants, fresh mulch, trimming the bushes, refreshing your walkway, and sprucing up your front porch all add to your home’s allimportant curb appeal.

5. Refinish hardwood floors if needed. Now is the time! Beautiful gleaming hardwood floors always add value to your home.

6. Add usable square footage for additional living space. Finish your unfinished basement or add a half bath or full bath if there is room. Can you enlarge your laundry room or rearrange rooms to maximize space? Now is the time to do it.

7. Make your home more energy-efficient. Invest in energyefficient appliances when possible. It’s a great way to lower your energy costs and appeal to many buyers who are looking to do the same.

Your home is your best investment—let your home benefit you. Home improvements are very noticeable and should be written in your marketing brochures for the new buyer to read and appreciate. Good luck! n

See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell Banker Realtor® on this page.

This month, the Horses with Hope herd returns to the fields of Gilfillan Farm and the non-profit brings plans for another exciting season!

In addition to therapeutic riding services, this season will bring equine-assisted programs, summer camps, cooperative programs with local schools, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, and exciting fundraising events.

On June 10, it’s off to the races for the fourth annual Belmont Jewel at St. Clair Country Club. Get your derby attire—hats for a hat contest and bowties—and get ready for an evening of festive fun! The event begins at 5 p.m. with a complimentary cocktail and appetizers. Watch the 155th Belmont Stakes Run for the Carnations and try your luck at games, silent auction items, and raffles before enjoying dinner and music.

Tickets are $135 per person or $1100 for a table of 10 guests. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit hwhbelmontjewel2023.eventbrite.com.

Sponsorships are available, offering the opportunity to market your business while helping those in need in the community. There are four levels of sponsorship available with benefits including ads in the event program, banner signage, and complimentary tables with dinner at the event.

A Triple Crown business sponsorship includes a four-hour team-building session at the farm. Horses create real opportunities for honest feedback, helping participants uncover problems and find real solutions to reach their professional development goals in a unique and relaxing out-of-the-office environment. Equine-assisted activities are designed to encourage effective communication, promote mental well-being, inspire creativity, and increase productivity. Visit horseswithhope.org/teambuilding for more information on this equine-assisted offering.

Horses with Hope

All Belmont Jewel event proceeds support Horses with Hope on the mission to enhance the lives of individuals in the community with emotional, physical, and cognitive needs through the benefits of research-based equine-assisted activities.

As equine programming resumes at Gilfillan Farm, Horses with Hope is seeking volunteers and certified instructors to support its growing program. Volunteers help run a high-quality and safe program for our riders and horses, bringing personal growth and fulfillment to clients and volunteers alike. Horses with Hope programs operate on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings at Gilfillan Farm through October and volunteers are needed for lesson help. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and no experience is necessary. n

For more information on how to make a difference with Horses with Hope, visit horseswithhope.org/volunteer. For individuals with a current PATH Intl., CECTH, or CHA certification, or willingness to become certified, consider joining the collaborative Horses with Hope instructor team. For more information on Horses with Hope programming, events, and opportunities for support, visit horseswithhope.org.

Wingfield Pines in Full Bloom

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

Spring is beyond sprung, and the flora and fauna are blooming and buzzing about. This time of year at Wingfield Pines always promises gorgeous hikes, incredible views of the water-filtering AMD system, fascinating wildlife activity, opportunities for shared education and recreation with fellow explorers, and so much more.

In my opinion, spring and early summer are the best times of year to walk the trails of Wingfield Pines; the lush, dewy meadows welcome sights and songs of busy birds, the AMD system hosts croaking frogs, and the mix of tree cover and open fields provide respite in the sun or reprieve from its heat depending on what you’re seeking.

Upcoming Local Events

Webinar Series

May 9 | Migration

June 7 | Fabulous Fireflies

June 21 | All About Bees

Additionally, each summer at Wingfield Pines is filled with activity organized by our annual Hamm Intern, and while we don’t know who that is at the time of writing, we’re sure you’ll enjoy getting to know them and seeing what they bring to the green space. Every year since 2012, a passionate and knowledgeable student has worked as ALT’s John Hamm Intern at Wingfield Pines to maintain and enhance the conservation area, improve plant and wildlife habitat, conduct educational and scientific programming, and be the face of ALT to the conservation area’s many visitors during the busy summer season.

Depending on the intern’s background as well as personal and professional interests, ALT has hosted on-site plant identification walks, yoga meet ups, and volunteer habitat workdays. Wingfield Pines is a better place thanks to a decade of service from Hamm Interns, most of whom have leveraged their internship experience as a building block to successful conservation or environmental careers.

Beyond events hosted by the Hamm Intern, ALT will also schedule more in-person environmental education programming and virtual learning opportunities for those interested in creating richer connections with nature knowledge. We hope you’ll find something in our events listed in this issue of TODAY, and we also hope you’ll check our website calendar for more programs—we’re always coming up with something new!

Whether in a virtual learning program or on the trail at Wingfield Pines this summer, we look forward to seeing you exploring more in and about the outdoors. n

Each Webinar Runs 5–5:45 p.m. | Cost: Free Gain nature knowledge from wherever you have an internet connection with our webinar series on a variety of topics.

AARP PA: 50+ Walking Series

Various Dates, Times, & Locations | Cost: Free

June 16 | 9–10:30 a.m. | Bethel Green

Sponsored by AARP PA, this 50+walk series explores ALT’s lands across the region. Walk moderate terrain and distances, taking breaks to learn about local flora and fauna.

For tickets and more information, visit alleghenylandtrust.org/events.

Do you know your home’s value? Call now to learn your home’s worth in today’s market.

Demand for homes remain high at all price points.

For more than 25 years I have served buyers and sellers with a focus on Upper St. Clair and surrounding communities.

Profiles

of people with a USC connection

Know of a resident to profile?

Send information to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Robert

Tim Leckenby as New Associate Attorney

Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. is happy to welcome Upper St. Clair native Tim Leckenby as an associate attorney to their Pittsburgh team.

Tim is a 2022 graduate of Capital University Law School. Tim is admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar, the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Tim is passionate about civil advocacy and taking an analytical approach to legal research.

Tim’s passion for helping wronged individuals recover the compensation they deserve makes him the perfect addition to this highly experienced legal team.

or 412-833-3601 x 219 dhorvath@ howardhanna.com

Managing Partner Rob Peirce commented: “We’re glad to have Tim come aboard and we know that his passion about his work and our clients will be a big benefit to the firm. His experience as a judicial law clerk will also benefit our clients as he knows how a court works from the inside, something every client can benefit from.”

For many, visiting and decorating the graves of loved ones is a Memorial Day tradition.

Cave Hill Cemetery, at 296 acres, is the largest cemetery by area and number of burials in Louisville, Kentucky.

This beautiful Victorian-era cemetery was chartered in 1848 and includes a National Cemetery and arboretum. The cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, and the National Cemetery at Cave Hill was added in 1998. Cave Hill has become the final resting place of many prominent citizens. TODAY visited and had a photo session while paying respects to two of them.

Colonel Harlan Sanders was best known for being the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Harland David Sanders was born on September 9, 1890, in a four-room house in Kentucky. In 1980, Sanders was diagnosed with acute leukemia and died at Louisville Jewish Hospital of pneumonia six months later, on December 16 at the age of 90. By the time of his death, there were an estimated 6,000 KFC outlets in 48 countries. His name and likeness are still used today as symbols of the company.

Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr. on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. When he was 12, a Louisville police officer suggested he learn how to box and the rest was history. Ali went on to be regarded as one of the most significant sports figures of the 20th century and is ranked as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time by many. His life outside the ring was dedicated to the service of others, and it was estimated that Ali helped to feed more than 22 million people afflicted by hunger around the world. He died in an Arizona hospital on June 2, 2016, of septic shock. He was 74 years old. n

Instructions for

Traveling with TODAY

Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information.

• Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine.

• Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email.

• List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stay-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.

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

Col. Harland Sanders’ grave

Muhammad Ali’s grave

Happenings!

Upper St. Clair Rotary Farmer’s Market

The USC Rotary Farmer’s Market, sponsored by the Rotary of Upper St. Clair–Bethel Park Breakfast Club, 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 2022, as well as some new exciting options, await.

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 21 and 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, July 22 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.

Mental Health First Aid

It should come as no surprise that the U.S. is experiencing a mental health crisis. In fact, the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) states one in five teens and young adults is currently living with a mental health condition, a figure which may be higher as many cases go unreported. Young people are navigating unprecedented stressors, including a lack of personal connection as a result of social media, continued school violence, increasing issues with bullying and cyberbullying, and an overwhelmingly negative social and political climate.

Adults want to help alleviate these pressures, but often don’t know where to start. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)-Youth, which is now being offered by Outreach Teen & Family Services, can be the first step.

MHFA is an evidence-based program that teaches adults how to identify the common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance abuse challenges among children and adolescents in both crisis and non-crisis situations. The goal is not to diagnose, but merely to assess and help young people take the necessary steps to get the help they need.

Any adult who has consistent contact with children and teens, particularly parents, teachers, coaches, and guidance counselors, are good candidates for MHFA training. The curriculum can be completed in one day and follows a five-step action plan (ALGEE):

• Assess for risk of suicide/harm,

• Listen non-judgmentally,

• Give reassurance and information,

• Encourage appropriate professional help, and

• Encourage self-help and other support strategies.

USCHS Class Reunion

The 50th reunion for Upper St. Clair High School’s class of 1974 is approaching! A celebration is being planned for September 27–29, 2024.

It’s going to be great reconnecting after 50 years! Don’t miss a wonderful weekend centered on seeing old friends. Make sure you’re informed!

Details via email, Facebook, and the USCSD website. Visit connect2USCSD.com for updates and more information. Email uschs74reunion@gmail.com, to confirm your email is on the list.

USC Day

The annual Upper St. Clair School District Kennywood Day is Tuesday, June 20. Discounted tickets must be purchased online at kennywood.com./schools.

Tickets purchased online using the promo code “usc” are $34.99 each if using on June 20. Discounted tickets for use any day through June 30 are also available for $38.99, using the promo code “uscflex”. A full-price general admission ticket is $69.99.

There is no limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased. Note that a $4 processing fee (maximum of $10) and $1 amusement tax will be added to each ticket.

Conducting the training for Outreach is Kelly Gyurina, a fulltime mother of three and volunteer community member who has a passion for mental health and making a difference in the lives of those who struggle with mental health issues, diagnoses, and crises, particularly children, adolescents, and teens. She is always searching for new ways to support our communities’ youth and places an emphasis on prevention methods. Seeking a way to make an immediate impact, Kelly found the MHFA program through an internet search and within two months completed the necessary training to become a program instructor.

Kelly will be offering MHFA-Youth trainings for Outreach at the Bethel Park Community Center in May, as well as the Castle Shannon Library in September. Anyone interested in one of these sessions should contact the appropriate facility directly. If these dates do not work, contact Outreach’s program manager, Maggie Zangara, mzangara@outreachteen.org for additional options n

Outreach is a community counseling agency offering services to young people ages 5–21. Outreach provides training to numerous institutions and organizations including schools, universities, libraries, and community centers. The training provides the language and tools that may be needed to help someone in distress and works to break down the barriers people often encounter when talking about suicide.

Note that Outreach does not offer crisis services or response and does not have evening and weekend on-call coverage. In an emergency, go to your local emergency room or call RESOLVE at 1-888-796-8226.

Churches and Synagogues SERVING UPPER ST. CLAIR

Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair

2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775

Berean Fellowship Church

300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township—412-220-4673

Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills

1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168

Bethany Lutheran Church

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

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

Brightwood Christian Church

5044 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park—412-835-6703

Center Presbyterian Church

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

Chabad of the South Hills

1701 McFarland Road, Pittsburgh—412-344-2424

Christ Community Church of the South Hills

100 Warwick Drive, Bethel Park—412-519-4097

Christ United Methodist Church

44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621

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

Corpus Christi Parish

212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213

Crossroads Church 1120 Boyce Road—412-494-9999

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

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

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA)

105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467

Peace Lutheran Church

107 Carol Drive, McMurray—724-941-9441

Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church

250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-3635

Resurrection Parish

St. John Capistran Campus

1610 McMillan Road—412-221-6275

St. Thomas More Campus

126 Fort Couch Road—412-833-0031

Ruthfred Lutheran Church

3401 South Park Rd., Bethel Park—412-835-7140

St. David’s Episcopal Church

905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-4060

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

6470 Library Road, South Park—412-833-2400

St. Louise de Marillac Campus

320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153

South Hills Assembly

2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-8900

South Hills Church of the Nazarene

5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333

South Hills Community Baptist Church

2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313

South Hills Interfaith Movement

5301 Park Avenue, Bethel Park—412-854-9120

Temple Emanuel

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

The Bible Chapel

300 Gallery Drive, McMurray—724-941-8990

The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (aka Sunnyhill)

1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-6277

Westminster Presbyterian Church

2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630

Day Care (Children)

Bethel Presbyterian Church

2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-0441

First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School Kids

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

Kid Biz, LLC

3540 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172

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

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

KinderCare of Mt. Lebanon

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

The Goddard School

655 Painters Run Road —412-564-3600

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

Day Care (Adult)

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

1900 Pioneer Avenue, Brookline—412-561-8400

Nursery Schools

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

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

Mt. Lebanon Montessori

70 Moffett Street, 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

Ruthfred Lutheran Nursery School

3401 South Park Road, Bethel Park—412-835-7140

St. David’s Early Learning Center

905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-413-8285

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

St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery

1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644

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

Temple Emanuel

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

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

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

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

Jim Bolas

Boyce Road Gardeners

412-606-9328

Bolasjim@gmail.com

Phyllis Kender, Registrar ......................................

Brookside Woman’s Club

412-221-3118

Jaque Balzarini ........................................... jbalzar@comcast.net

Civil Air Patrol

Glenn Ward

Community Foundation of USC

Justin Schmidt, President

Different Strokes Tennis League

Gina Braun

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park

Peter Kohnke, President ......................................

Girl Scouts of USC

Michelle Wardle-Eggers

412-221-0846

412-440-8464 www.cfusc.org

412-221-5717

412-835-5540

724-518-9251

412-595-7550

uscgirlscoutcommunity@gmail.com

Historical Society of Upper St. Clair

Rachel Carlson ....................................................

League of Women Voters

Lifespan

Kim Rollinson

Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com)

Laura Murtough

Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics “PEAQ”

Carissa Howard

South Hills Chamber of Commerce

www.shchamber.org

South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM)

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

Travel Baseball (Summer) ....................................

Rich West

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

412-835-2050 hsusc.org

facebook.com/hsusc president@hsusc.org

412-261-4284

412-464-1300, x127

412-478-1736 uscootm@gmail.com

310-844-2279

412-306-8090

412-854-9120

JCC Pittsburgh ......................................................

South Hills Junior Orchestra

Janet Vukotich

South Hills Kennel Club

Ray Harrington .....................................................

Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce

Mandi Pryor, Executive Director

412-278-1975 jccpgh.org

412-341-5160

412-999-0195

412-221-4100

southwestcommunitieschamber.org

mandi@southwestcommunitieschamber.org

Spencer Family YMCA

Jim Lybarger, Executive Director

412-833-5600

USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club

Brian Schill

USC Boy Scouts of America

412-833-6229

Mike Wherry (Troop 366) 412-953-5791

Tom O’Brien (Troop 4 ) 412-854-3153

USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org)

Jen Dalke 412-760-0801

USC Democratic Committee

Allyson Feldman,Chair uscdemcommittee@gmail.com

Andrew Zahalsky, 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

USC Library

USC Newcomer’s Club

412-523-1855

412-835-5540

(www.uscnewcomers.org) ....... uscnewcomersexec@gmail.com

USC Parent Teacher Council (PTC)

Shanna Caplan, President USCPTCpresident@gmail.com

USC Republican Committee

Andrew Baldasare

USC Volunteer Firefighters

Greg Gerlach, President

412-559-9228

412-835-0660, x100 president@uscvfd.org

Dempsey Lane

Kathi Kernan John Geisler

Elaine Krelis

Julie Leslie

Rachel Mazzie

Brad Templeton

Mary Ann Wellener

Rachel Richard Dora Rudick

Amanda Nasman Carol McCarthy

Darla Stevick

Faith Williard Cathy White York

Milo Hindman Manager