SUMMER 2024 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Community Day ’24

Panthers in Paradise

Robbins Bobbitt Associate Broker

Janet Hensler

Renee Ringer

Bonnie Bagay

Diane Horvath

Shannon Rosenberry

Del Burrell

Frankie Kunselman Jen Schalk

Jane York

Jim Clark

Chris Longenecker

Beth Thomas Izzy Zehner

Kerrie Constantini

Marie Mageras

Suzy Voss

Lauren Ganoe Kathy McCloskey

Jody Yurcich

We are honored to have our outstanding physicians recognized as

TOP DOCTORS 2024

Rami M. Ausi, MD

Tatyana P. Barsouk, MD

Stephen G. Basheda, DO

Bridget K. Beier, DO

Nicholas A. Bellicini, DO

Kevin P. Bordeau, MD

Stephanie S. Brown, MD

Raye J. Budway, MD

Daniel E. Buerger, MD

Camille M. Buonocore, MD

David J. Burkey, MD

David B. Catalane, MD

Mark A. Cedar, DO

Frank A. Civitarese, DO

Louis A. Civitarese, DO

Lori L. Cherup, MD

Robert J. Chiu, MD

Bridger Clarke, MD

M. Sabina Daroski, MD

Wayne A. Evron, MD

Mario J. Fatigati, MD

Elizabeth J. Froelich, MD

John P. Girod, DO

Amy A. Gosling, MD

Peter M. Grondziowski, MD

Maxim Hammer, MD

Michelle Harvison, MD

David J. Helfrich, MD

Scott A. Holekamp, MD

Andy C. Kiser, MD

Deborah A. Lenart, MD

David L. Limauro, MD

Jeffrey C. Liu, MD

Xuong Lu, MD

Jay A. Lutins, MD

James H. MacDougall, MD

Douglas H. MacKay, MD

Richard H. Maley, MD

Ashith Mally, MD

Christopher M. Manning, MD

Leo R. McCafferty, MD

Robert E. McMichael, DO

Leigh H. Nadler, MD

Lisa A. Oliva, DO

Amelia A. Pare, MD

Jeffrey A. Perri, MD

Brett C. Perricelli, MD

Kristen Peske, DO

Matthew G. Pesacreta, MD

Christopher Pray, MD

Raman S. Purighalla, MD

Robert C. Rankin, MD

Patrick G. Reilly, MD

Christie G. Regula, MD

Vincent E. Reyes, MD

Antonio M. Riccelli, MD

Edward J. Ruane, MD

Theresa Schuerle, DO

Robert N. Shogry, MD

Arthur P. Signorella, MD

Felicia E. Snead, MD

Michael J. Speca, DO

Arthur D. Thomas, MD

Nestor D. Tomycz, MD

Amy B. Turner, DO

Samuel Urick, DO

Justin J. Vujevich, MD

Jason G. Whalen, MD

Paul M. Willis, MD

Ryan W. Zuzek, MD

Fall 2024 edition includes Educational Resources and Health & Wellness guides.

Deadlines: Articles – June 20

Advertising – June 24

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 412-851-2851.

Subscription Information

If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s official magazine, please send a $12 check payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues, with their name and address, including zip code, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA 15241. Add $10 to cover international mailing.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the fall 2024 issue and will be published in August 2024. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues.

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

Alex Pepke, Township Associate Editor

AnneMarie Kopach, School District Associate Editor

Sarah Beitler, Office Manager, Marketing & Advertising Executive

Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Student Interns

Caleb Guarino

Miriam Gutensohn

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Firas Abdelahad, Judge Ronald Arnoni, John Barsotti, Mary Birks, Jim Bolas, Mia Moran-Cooper, Kristen Culp, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Emily Humes, Mike Isbir, Chris Gmiter, Caleb Guarino (intern & YWG), Miriam Gutensohn (intern & YWG), Ted Hale, Cassandra Hrvatin, Lauren Iannacchione, Jay Lynch, Geoff and Christine McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Rep. Dan Miller, Charissa Moses, Jim Render, Haley Roberts, Joyce Soung, Mary Lynne Spazok, Tina Vojtko and Tom Yochum.

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.

issue

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

Matthew R. Serakowski

A Summer Note From the Publishers

Dr. John T. Rozzo

USC TODAY is ready to welcome summer! Included in this issue is the line-up for the 2024 Community Day celebration, scheduled for Saturday, May 18. For many, this annual get-together marks the unofficial start of summer; so, plan to stop by and enjoy a day with friends and neighbors.

With the return of longer days and warmer weather, it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy Upper St. Clair’s wonderful parks. Turn to page 28 for the complete list and make it a point to visit at least one this year. Also found in the Township section of this issue are articles about the many programs offered at both the Library and C&RC, as well as tips from the Volunteer Fire Department on ways to stay safe while enjoying your outdoor activities.

Upper St. Clair students learned how expensive life can be at a Financial Reality Fair earlier this year. See page 50 to find out more about their experience. In addition to numerous articles about student accomplishments, the School District section also includes the PTC Arts in USC winners and a photo collage from the high school musical.

TODAY’s talented volunteer writers continue to provide entertaining and informative articles, with topics in this issue ranging from facts about the American flag, to the growth of Nike and the development of the Nike-air products, to the going rates for the Tooth Fairy. Flip to page eight to start reading!

Did you know that the Community & Recreation Center has been in operation for 15 years (page 33), that the Upper St. Clair Tennis Development Program (USCTDP) recently celebrated its 40th anniversary (page 69) and 50 years ago, a group of local artists founded the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts (page 75)? TODAY offers congratulations to these groups as they celebrate serving our community in so many different ways.

Speaking of anniversaries, TODAY staff members, with the assistance of Miss Colleen and the library staff, will be hosting a party on Wednesday, June 5 at 5 p.m. to mark the magazine’s 30th anniversary! Turn to page 37 for details — and stop by and join in the fun!

Sincerely,

Township Manager

Take advantage of this wonderful season. We’ll see you in the fall.

Sincerely,

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Stars and Stripes Forever

Mary Lynne Spazok

A symbol of liberty, justice, national purpose and love of country: the American flag signifies the power and glory of our nation. The greatest example of united patriotism: Sept. 11, 2001. Despite tragedy and despair, American loyalty generated an intense wave of steadfast solidarity. Anything in red, white and blue was heavily sought. But, 23 years later, has the spirit of patriotic pageantry faded?

Honored in homes and businesses from sea to shining sea, flag history chronicles America. The colors are symbolic; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice. In 1787, the American ship Columbia Rediviva proudly flew the flag while circumnavigating the globe. Explorer Robert Peary sited a flag at the North Pole in 1909. The World War II Pulitzer Prize-winning photo of six Marines raising the U.S. flag over the Japanese island of Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945, is legendary. And who can forget the 1969 flag planting where no human had gone before during the Apollo 11 mission to the moon? This iconic emblem has endured war and heartache, as well as great joy and triumph.

From festive parades to fireworks and fanfare, decorative stars and stripes infuse energy into any decor. No outdoor flag pole? Consider a small garden flag. Options include wreaths, banners, bunting and “swoopers” that wave and flutter in the wind. For youngsters, painting a reclaimed wood pallet awards kids a sense of confidence and pride. With Memorial Day, Flag Day and July 4th just around the corner, shop the dollar store early. Children will delight in choosing one or more creative activities meant for wearing, sharing or displaying. Buying a new flag? Embroidered or screen print dyed, consider 100% USA home grown, home sewn!

True or false? A flag with fewer than 50 stars should not be flown. False. Any American flag that was officially documented during its era is deemed active. World

history propels the pursuit of unique memorabilia. Interest in political symbols or inheriting an antique flag poses a fascinating journey. Anthology blends artistic design, along with the documentation of the birth and growth of a nation. Acquisition requires in-depth research, verification of authenticity, fabric stability and conservation. Very old or rare American flags have most likely succumbed to the rigors of time, requiring the preservation of its incorporated materials, like fringe, embroidery and fabric. If restoration is necessary, a textile conservationist is paramount. Acquisitions can be pricey, but flags and banners are thought-provoking artifacts that reflect our country’s pivotal moments.

Are you aware that The Americanism Commission of the American Legion declares that it is acceptable to wear clothing that has an image of the American flag? For example, the iconic Polo Ralph Lauren American Flag Sweater, made in the USA, embodies RL’s long-standing love of all-American style. Known for luxury designs, Lauren, born in the Bronx, has never forgotten his humble beginnings. His loyal reverence includes a $13 million endowment to the Smithsonian Museum for ongoing conservation of the original Star-Spangled Banner. That banner under The Flag Act of 1777 unified our young country with 13 stars (states) and 13 stripes (colonies). In 1989, the original version of the now classic emblem sweater featured RL initials instead of stars. According to the American Legion Flag Code, you are not breaking the law by wearing clothing bearing a flag design: “People are simply expressing their patriotism and love of country by wearing an article of clothing that happens to be red, white and blue with stars and stripes. There is nothing illegal about the wearing or use of these items.” Celebrate with appropriate attire or flag-themed jewelry. Myth dispelled, but any intentional disrespect or desecration of an authentic American flag is a breach of etiquette.

In 1987, “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Phillip Sousa, was declared the National March of the U.S. A master at stirring patriotic feelings, George M. Cohan’s Star-Spangled Salute to Music featured a rousing orchestration of the Sousa march that electrified audiences to a standing ovation. There are so many ways to honor those who sacrificed to preserve liberty since Revolutionary times. Whether flying “Old Glory” or showcasing a whimsical display, may the flag of the United States of America fly high evermore.

Last but not least, “Never forget the power of the American spirit.” (George M. Cohan, American entertainer, playwright and Congressional Gold Medal awardee.) n

Flags may be flown until tattered, torn, faded or unserviceable. Established locally in 2009, the “Retire Old Glory” initiative is a way for residents to retire their worn American flag properly by depositing at the collection bin at the USC Community & Recreation Center. Learn more at vfw.org/community/flag-etiquette.

Jay Lynch

When I was one of the baby boom kids growing up in USC’s Washington Terrace, it seemed that every parent, priest and teacher knew each other and were united in a benevolent conspiracy to both support us and keep us “in line.” Boys in our neighborhood knew that if one of us was caught doing something wrong, news of the bad deed would spread like wildfire through the older generation’s grapevine. If one of us was caught swearing in the afternoon, we’d all be sucking on bars of soap before nightfall. During confession at St. Thomas More Church, Father Lonnigan’s first response to a transgression was always, “Alone or with others?”

Our parents’ generation was clearly in charge, but we learned to prevent the wrath of authority — and protect our freedom — by sticking together. Our most effective tool was covering for each other. When my buddy shattered his mother’s favorite vase while demonstrating a head stand in their living room, I told her that their dog whacked it off the coffee table with his tail. (She eventually got wise to the “Smokey did it” defense.)

As we aged, our generational bonding increased beyond the neighborhood, thanks to the social media of the day — black and white TVs, transistor radios and vinyl records. Watching “Laugh In,” “The Smothers Brothers” and “Mod Squad” showed us that fellow teens across the nation shared our tastes in music, dress and hairstyle. As a result, no introduction was necessary when we met a bellbottomwearing fellow boomer. A smile and a peace sign ensured instant friendship.

Fast forward to today, and our retirement-age generation still sticks together. So, it should have come as no surprise when a fellow boomer bailed me out of an embarrassing situation in a local restaurant parking lot.

My wife and I frequently have dinner at the Bonefish Grill bar, where service is quick and adult beverages are handy. Reservations aren’t available for bar seats, so our strategy is to have my wife, Katie, drive us to the entrance and wait while I run inside to check availability. However, our last visit included an unusual twist. When I was in the restaurant, scoping for bar seats, Katie had to move from the curb to make room for a handicapped guest. She decided to slowly circle the property and return to the entrance.

Meanwhile, I discovered that no seats were available and walked outside, ready to hop back into the car and head to another dinner spot. But our white Lexus SUV wasn’t at the curb; it was in a nearby parking place, idling, with the lights on. I thought it was odd that Katie had decided to park the car, but I took it in stride. I walked to the car, opened the passenger door, climbed inside and mumbled, “We need to go elsewhere,” as I struggled with the suddenly ill-fitting seat belt.

To my surprise, a male voice said, “Hi, there.”

I was face-to-face with a man my age in the driver’s seat. I was astonished. A number of thoughts ran through my mind. What happened to Katie? Is the old fellow a carjacker? If so, why would he have parked her car? I didn’t have pepper spray, and I knew that a low impact fist fight between old men would look pitiful when the police arrived. But, since he was a fellow boomer, I thought I might be able to calmly talk him out of our car.

Our initial exchange might win an award from Captain Obvious. I said, “You’re not my wife!” and he replied, “You’re not my wife, either!”

We stared at each other for a few seconds

while we both gathered our thoughts.

I asked, “Why are you in our car?” and he said, “Why are you in our car?”

The lightbulb went on in my head, and I said, “I’ll bet we both own a white Lexus SUV!”

He responded, “I think you’re right. I was about to give you my best punch in the gut, but arthritis makes my punches feel like mosquito bites.”

His humor made the conversation more relaxed, and I asked, “Why are you parked here with the car running?” He said, “I’m waiting for my wife. She’s looking for seats at the bar.”

I replied, “Small world, that’s what I’m doing. My wife is waiting for me, so I better go. Sorry about invading your privacy.” His response confirmed that fellow boomers had bonded. He said, “Peace, brother.”

As I turned to leave, his wife opened the car door. When she asked him why I was in her seat, he said, “He’s a buddy from way back in the 60s. We had a nice chat.” It wasn’t quite a “Smokey did it” excuse, but it sure was effective. I apologized to his wife and headed to the “other” white SUV at the entrance curb. I climbed into the car and reported that there were no seats at the bar.

As we drove off to another restaurant, Katie asked, “See anyone you know?”

I replied, “Sure did. An old friend. He has a car just like ours!”

Wisely disinterested, she said, “That’s nice,” and drove on.

I’ll bet this kind of mistake happens all the time in retirement communities, where couples drive golf carts everywhere. If boomer husbands get into the wrong cart, neither couple likely notices for hours or even days. Both spouses likely think they’re getting an upgrade. n

Waiting for the return of the seat scout

The Great Gapsby

Tom Yochum

My eldest daughter is in kindergarten. She’s had a wonderful year and appears to be hitting most academic and social milestones alongside her peers. As one of the younger kids in her class, however, she’s lagging in one key area: tooth loss. Not the unfortunate variety that affords periodontists second homes in Hilton Head, but the exciting kind that’s accompanied by fanfare and financial reward. And, while it is striking how many health and lifestyle issues are currently shared by my children and parents, that is fodder for a future article. My daughter’s concerns, however, are imminent: her stubbornly solid baby teeth have become a source of constant consternation.

Frannie’s dinner table recall is often vague on the drudgery and minutiae of such unimportant daily details as what she ate, something she learned or anything she did over the course of eight hours. “I don’t remember, Daaaaad!” And, yet, she could easily rattle off a current tooth count for any of her classmates. Names, dates and Social Security numbers of kids who have new holes in their smiles are seared into her memory. We often can’t get a single syllable regarding the latest “Letter of the Week,” but we’re treated to the Gappysburg Address on evenings when someone’s lost a tooth at school. If they used dental plates to teach “new” math, she’d be enrolled in calculus next year.

Much to her chagrin, however, one number she is intimately familiar with is zero. The exact number of times the Tooth Fairy has paid us a visit. Paid being the operative word, of course. From her detailed classroom reports and in talking to our friends, the Tooth Fairy has done its part in keeping pace with inflation. Five, 10 and 20 dollar bills left behind for measly bicuspids! In the days of yore (the early ‘90s), my siblings and I had a palm-sized pillow with a small pocket to hold a missing tooth, which we’d dutifully tuck under our own pillow on those fateful nights. We’d awaken to find our beautiful, slightly bloodied molars replaced with some combination of change. It never occurred to the tooth-pillow design team (and certainly not my parents) that the fang-sized pocket would need to be large enough to accommodate bills. Even with larger pockets, though, this miniature relic would likely be relegated to the past. Now six-year-olds can simply rise to the gentle ping of a Venmo notification, alerting them to a small fortune that’s been deposited overnight.

Less spending ...

In this context, Frannie’s obsession makes much more sense. She’s concerned about keeping pace financially, not biologically. Her friends look a pintsize gang of hockey enforcers, but their piggy banks are overflowing. When I heard the going rates, I have to admit that even I considered gnawing on a few Milk Duds to cover the mortgage. Alas, in parenthood you find yourself on the other side of the tooth pillow. And that realization had me terrified and grinding my teeth during sleepless nights. My wife and I had a whole new reason to want to keep our kids young…and wearing mouth guards!

No gaps yet!

delay the inevitable, however. With two young kids, we were looking at 40 lump-sum payouts over next few years. How to prepare? I met with our financial advisor who said he’d look into a teacher discount program. In the meantime, he suggested a few early withdrawal options on my 401k. My wife helpfully imagined a profitable future in which the Hair Fairy visited me each night to compensate us for my thinning scalp. Maybe I would repurpose the old tooth pillow. I could probably stuff six or seven follicles in there every night.

Searching for answers, and loose change in the couch, a solution hit me like a famed bolt of lightning. Perusing my daughter’s schoolwork, I spotted some papers about the Founding Fathers. I took special interest in a childhood favorite, Benjamin Franklin. And there, among some of his wisest aphorisms, was the key to my kite-sized financial worries: “A penny saved is a penny earned.” That was it! We didn’t have to sell the house, or our plasma! We just needed to tighten the old belt. Cancel Spring Break. Tell the kids Disney was closed, indefinitely. The Yochums were prepping for the Summer of Austerity!

The girls were already enrolled in spring sports and summer camps had been paid for, but we’d cut back on the extras. All the frivolous expenditures, like leaving the house, that really add up when you have young kids. This would be good for them and our bottom line. Plenty of American luminaries were shaped by the Great Depression. And what local grandparent didn’t have a gumband drawer or save tinfoil to reuse later? Besides, this was one season on a shoestring budget, not a decade of boiling shoelaces.

I began to note our weekly outings (i.e., extravagances!) and decided we’d try less expensive alternatives. I’ve outlined a few of my attempts below, in a format that parents of a certain age can appreciate. You might recall such lists, staples of turn-of-the-century pop-culture magazines, wherein fashions and trends were divided into stark camps: In or Out, Hot or Not. As we’ve graduated from People to Parenting, my homage is a rundown that

A household ban on taffy and contact sports would only

... means more saving!

provides you with two clear options for upcoming family activities: Steep or Cheap!

Steep: In early spring, we’d planned to spend an idle Saturday with the girls at an indoor trampoline park. Many such places have sprouted up recently in Pittsburgh, offering a weather-proof experience that will leave kids absolutely exhausted by the ride home. Yet the promise of early bedtimes comes with a cost. For an average family to buy a few 90-minutes passes, including new jump socks to replace the ones you purchased last time but forgot, you’re barely through the door before the price tag is bouncing near $100. Add in some arcade games and a visit to the snack bar to round out your afternoon. The kids will sleep well that night, but you won’t because the creditors keep calling.

Cheap: At first, the girls were excited when I said we’d be making our own trampoline park at home. It had been a rain-soaked week and the ground was particularly spongy. We splashed around for a bit and then I got out some of those lawn aeration tools with handles and the kids were practically on pogo sticks. They howled, with what I imagine was delight, when I told them they’d get the full 90 minutes, just like Sky Zone. Before our time was even up, the girls were exhausted…and nearly three quarters of the yard was set for reseeding. Instead of the arcade, we whacked actual moles in the backyard and the snack bar was replaced by turns drinking from the hose. Who said frugality isn’t fun? Total: $0.

Steep: The following weekend, the girls wanted to see the new Pixar movie at the Galleria. Even accounting for the military rucksack of illicit foodstuffs we’d normally sneak into the theater, a night at the movies is no longer an inexpensive endeavor. The shrewd tycoons at AMC know their audience and you’re now made to purchase tickets directly in front of the Wonka-laden display cases. Risking their vulnerable chompers near the Raisinets and Swedish Fish was too much of a temptation. Besides, we can watch almost anything at home on one of our half-dozen streaming services. I’m so glad we decided to save money by canceling cable!

a thousand toys at Learning Express, begging for each one with increasing intensity, as my wife and I calmly replied “put it on your list for the Easter Bunny.” Now, in our house the Easter Bunny doesn’t actually get a list, nor bestow extravagant gifts, but they’d forget all that when enjoying their ADA-approved sugar-free gum and mushed bananas on Easter morning. Heck, if the Galleria’s coin fountain was still operational, we could have ended the day with a profit!

Steep: This final one is evergreen, not simply for those seasons of pinching pennies. Regular trips with your small children (and/ or wife) to Target, “just to pick up a few things.” Not possible. I challenge any parent to enter that store, while accompanied by minors, and leave for under $100. Had I known about this phenomenon before starting a family, I would have invested in Target stock. In that alternate reality, my kids’ Tooth Fairy would be less New Deal and more New Money: raining cash on them in exchange for each tiny tusk that fell from their gold-plated grills.

Cheap: Literally anything else you can do together. Disney cruises. European vacations. Becoming a Taylor Swift groupie and following her to multiple tour stops. Avoid the harsh red homing beacon off 19 and financial freedom follows. We told our kids that Target was closed for renovations in April and we’re now a three-income family: my salary, my wife’s, and no Target charge bill. Bullseye!

The occasional fiscal fasting really does work, whether you’re saving for a string of white pearls…or a set of pearly whites. It’s almost summer and our plan has been largely successful. We’ve put ourselves in a good spot to at least finance Frannie’s two front teeth. With compound interest, and some Fixodent, we might just make it yet. n

Cheap: Candy and credit cards were verboten, but the girls still wanted to go to the Galleria to “play.” This consisted of myriad trips up and down the elevator and escalators; sitting in the massage chairs without turning them on; touching all the cars and hoping they didn’t have alarms; and being asked to leave Williams Sonoma. We even went to the toy store, which might seem risky in light of the grand plan, but I’ve found that you can always use an upcoming holiday as an excuse to forgo buying just about anything kids ask for. That day, they manhandled roughly

Working to keep those teeth for as long as possible

Coach’s Corner

The Rest of the Story

I am going to assume that many of you have watched the movie “Air” or have read about the film regarding the rise of the Nike Corporation, and specifically, the development of the air system in basketball shoes. The film stars Matt Damon as Western Pennsylvania native Sonny Vaccaro and director Ben Affleck as Nike founder Phil Knight. Viola Davis also appears as Michael Jordan’s mother, Deloris. Like many Hollywood productions, they stretch the truth and embellish the facts to make the film more entertaining. First of all, the blond Matt Damon is not chubby, nor does he portray a very Italian-looking man like Mr. Vaccaro.

Sonny, who I spoke with in California while doing research for this article, was the son of a Pennsylvania coal miner and a small-time basketball coach. In the ’70s he founded the Dapper Dan Round Ball Classic, played at the former Pittsburgh Civic Arena. It was the first national game for the best high school players in the country.

Google research reports that nothing happens in basketball that isn’t touched, in some way, by a shoe company; and Sonny Vaccaro (of Nike) is as responsible for that development as any single individual in history. “Air,” the movie, very accurately depicts Sonny as the one who convinces Phil Knight to give Michael Jordan all the

promotional money, rather than spread it around to multiple NBA players. Jordan, however, was still in college at North Carolina, and had yet to play for the Chicago Bulls. It was Vaccaro’s insistence that they also develop a shoe in the Bull’s colors (red, black and white) and to name the shoes after Michael. Phil Knight finally gave the approval to go forward, and the rise of the Nike corporation began. For the record, Sonny Vaccaro did not show up in North Carolina, unannounced, at the Jordan’s household as per the movie. However, he did convince Mrs. Jordan to bring her family to Oregon to meet with Phil Knight and get the first look at the shoe being developed that would be called “Air Jordan.”

Movies and documentaries never have enough “time” to tell the complete story. For example, in the film “Air,” they only covered the personalities of Phil Knight, the Jordan family, Sonny Vaccaro and a cast of characters that included sports agents and various Nike employees who worked on designs and colors. Remember, Nike was at first a company that wanted to make and improve running shoes. Before it was Nike, the company was called Blue Ribbon Sports and was headquartered in Exeter, N.H. It is my intention to tell you the complete story.

Aileen Mathews was a very good friend of mine who served on the Upper St. Clair school board at the time I was hired in 1979. She and her husband, Gordon, had a winter home in Bonita Springs, Fla. They had many friends and acquaintances in the USC community, as well as in Florida. She introduced me to one of those good friends who lived in their same Bonita Bay neighborhood. Her friend is one of the most interesting men I have ever met. His name is Paul Mitchell (not the hair product person). Without him, the rise of the Nike corporation would not have happened so quickly, with or without Michael Jordan. The movie never mentions the most key element of the Jordan shoe — air and gas. This is the point where Paul Mitchell becomes a very important person in the development of Nike and its trademark athletic shoes.

Paul Mitchell graduated from the University of Kansas in 1962, with a degree in mechanical engineering. His first job was with Eastman Kodak, before serving two years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He received the U.S. Army Commendation Medal for Outstanding Military Service and achieved the rank of first lieutenant. Following his service to the army, he worked for several corporations in the Fort Smith, Ark., area.

In 1970, he was offered a position as engineering manager at Tetra Plastics, near St. Louis. In 1980, Tetra began working with Nike to develop uniquely engineered cushioning systems for their Air line of shoes. In 1988, Paul was promoted to president and COO of Tetra and assumed general management responsibilities. In 1991, Mitchell negotiated the sale of Tetra Plastics to Nike and was named the president of the new IHM (in-house manufacturing). By this time, Nike had left New Hampshire and was headquartered in their 400-acre campus in Beaverton, Ore. Phil Knight paid $43 million for Tetra Plastics, and the contract stipulated that Mitchell (and his wife, Nancy) move to Oregon and work for Nike.

Coach Jim Render

Paul with a mock-up of the original Air Jordan shoe that was presented to Michael Jordan when he visited Nike.

Paul holding one of the original Nike Air system shoes produced.

When I visited with Paul recently in Florida, he chuckled when he related the story of telling Mr. Knight that he got a bargain in the deal. Paul told him if this company goes where you want it to go, $43 million won’t seem like much. In 2024, Phil Knight and Michael Jordan are both billionaires. I guess Paul Mitchell knew what he was talking about in 1991.

To make this a legitimate and fair evaluation about the growth of Nike, there is one more person who was a major player in the success of the Air system in their shoes. His name is Frank Rudy, a native of Cleveland and a graduate of Case Institute of Technology, which is now Case Western Reserve University. As an aeronautical engineer, he is credited with inventing the air sole in 1978. He was not an employee of Nike, but had the ideas for air products. He did not have the materials, such as polyurethane, to actually make the air for the shoes, which is the reason there was a collaboration between Paul Mitchell of Tetra Plastics and Frank Rudy of Nike.

When the air shoes were finally in successful production, Rudy wrote to Mitchell:

“You, Paul, represent the otherwise missing ingredient, relative to Polymer processing technology and innovativeness… that has been the essential foundation responsible for phenomenal success of the Nike-air products. You, Paul, have truly done a fantastic job.”

(signed) Your lifelong friend — Frank Rudy (2-27-95)

Paul was a big part of over a dozen patents under his name that were eventually the backbone of Nike Air systems. One patent filed in October 1995 read, in part: “The cushioning devices maintain the internal inflatant pressure for extended periods of time by employing a phenomenon referred to in the industry as diffusion pumping, ideally, the cushioning devices of the present invention can be permanently

inflated with gases such as nitrogen or air.”

— Nike, Inc. and Tetra Plastics, Inc. Paul H Mitchell. Approved. February 3, 1998

The Nike story is an American treasure. Paul Mitchell is an American treasure. I wish you could sit and talk with him as I have had the pleasure to do when I am in Florida; our breakfast talks have been memorable. My friend Beano Cook used to say, “Forget the games, the stories are better.” He has a point, and he might be right!

A final story is timely and blends well with this article for TODAY. A set of six individual Air Jordan sneakers worn by Michael Jordan during his NBA finals sold for $6.7 million at an auction in New York City this past February. With taxes and service fees, the total price was $8 million. This set a new global auction record for game-worn shoes according to Brahm Wachter, head of Modern Collectables for the auction house, Sotheby’s. Each of the six shoes was signed by Jordan.

My daughter-in-law, Zoe Jackson, the wife of my son Eric, works for Sotheby’s and had a part in the auction. She actually recruited the winning bidder to participate. Ironically, he was given the bid paddle number 23 for the contest. The always-prepared Zoe provided a bottle of champagne to toast the winning participants. For the record, Eric was not the winning bidder, nor was he in the auction. On another side note, Jordan’s 1998 NBA finals opening game jersey still holds the world record for any game-worn sports memorabilia having fetched $10.1 million in September 2022.

I would like to conclude by borrowing the words of the late great ABC newscaster, Paul Harvey: “And now you know the rest of the story! Good day.” n

Paul and Jim in February 2024

Nike Air shoe with the cushioning device in the sole that can be permanently inflated with gases such as nitrogen or air.

A Story of Hope, Community and Care

Charissa Lauren

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” — Albert Einstein

Snowstorms are a perfect representation of both beautiful intensity and delicacy. The brittle cold of the snow reminds us that life comes in seasons. Just as there is winter in our life, there is soon to be spring. There will be bad, and difficult, and sadness and pain, but there will also be beauty, joy, peace and love.

In the spring of 2023, my husband and I were planning a fresh start in Georgia after a long period of grief that really strained us. In experiences of uncertainty and regret, sometimes the answers we seek in life come through in definite ways. As if being redirected, our plans changed overnight when I found out that I was expecting the rainbow I hoped for: a chance at a bigger family. But not just one baby — two! Two beautiful girls.

Our winter was ending and our spring, our second chance, was beginning. With a family expanding to six, we chose to stay in Upper St. Clair and I turned to the community for support. I was greeted with open arms by local twin-mom group, South Hills of Pittsburgh Mothers of Multiples, that connected me to many “twin” moms and helped me navigate the pregnancy experience. Our little rainbow surprises touched those around us. I think everyone could see the beauty of second chances.

I watched as the community checked in to help and support us. Surrounded by love, our neighbors, along with friends from church and mom groups, were so quick to lend a hand in helping us prepare for twins. Filling our nursery with all the necessities, I couldn’t help but feel gratitude for those who supported our next chapter and our decision to stay in Upper St. Clair even more.

When it came time for decisions on medical care, I knew I had a lot to consider. From the moment I found out I was expecting twins, I was informed of the risks — low birth weights, pre-term labor, preeclampsia — and it all seemed overwhelming. Though twin pregnancies are considered “high risk,” I had such a positive prior experience at St. Clair Health that I chose to go there. Having had experiences in larger hospitals, I’ve always valued St. Clair’s ability to pay more attention to detail and offer a calmer environment to expectant mothers.

I was confident in my team at Zubritzky Christy, knowing that in the event the babies arrived pre-term, I would be sent downtown to a level three NICU. I was overseen by the highrisk maternal fetal medicine team and we kept up with weekly non-stress tests, growth scans and doppler tests towards the end. When one twin was found to be a tad growth restricted, my team took the extra precautions to monitor me very closely, making me confident in my decision.

Choosing to stay in our neighborhood was the best decision we could have made. We will always have a getaway in Georgia, but our hope was found in the roots we have planted here. That hope lies in our neighbors, our schools, our friends and our exceptional

medical care. Family is the greatest gift of all and there is no better place to raise a family, especially a big family, than in Upper St. Clair.

After discovering I was having twins, I learned that the last time twins were conceived in my family was six generations back. Perhaps it is genetics; maybe it is my own little miracle. Whatever the reason, my family was given the chance to come together in hope, teaching us that without the winters in life, we can’t truly appreciate the springs. n

Charissa is a national writer and PR agency owner. She and her husband, Joel, a cyber security practice director, reside near St. Clair Country Club with their four children, all under the age of five.

SPRING 2024 BULB SALE

Photography by Annelise Marie Herring Navy & Pearls Events, USC mom-owned business

How Structural Engineers Play a Role with Your Residence Structure

Firas Abdelahad, P.E., Upper St. Clair Resident Principal, Pittsburgh Design & Engineering Services LLC

In the dynamic world of real estate, structural engineers often become essential during transactions, either due to a note in a home inspection report or a concern from the buyer. If the property was structurally modified by a previous owner or investor, the role of the structural engineer becomes crucial. They play a vital role in assisting homeowners, buyers, sellers and lenders in navigating the complexities of the housing market. Here is a look into the contributions of structural engineers and how their expertise safeguards your investment.

A structural engineer is a paid consultant and doesn’t offer free quotes because they aren’t the person who will be performing the job, if any work is needed. A structural engineer is not a salesperson trying to sell you a product.

It is important to note that per the code of ethics for engineers, “Engineers shall not request, propose, or accept a commission on a contingent basis under circumstances in which their judgement may be compromised.”

Before you sign on the dotted line, structural engineers can provide a structural condition evaluation of a property’s integrity. They assess the foundation, identify potential issues with load-bearing walls or beams and their trained eye can uncover hidden problems that might escape the untrained eye. This pre-purchase inspection offers buyers peace of mind, ensuring they are making an informed decision about the condition of their future home.

For sellers looking to maximize the value of their property, engaging a structural engineer can be a strategic move, especially if they plan a renovation to improve the value involving some structural modifications or if they notice any slight concerns. By addressing and rectifying structural issues beforehand, sellers can present a home in much better condition, potentially increasing its market value or, at least, not reducing its value due to flagged issues in the home inspection report. This proactive approach can also expedite the selling process, as buyers are

more likely to be attracted to a property with a clean bill of structural health.

Lenders, too, benefit from the expertise of structural engineers. Before approving a mortgage, financial institutions often require an evaluation of the property’s structural soundness, especially if they notice sagging, cracks or other issues in the basement structure. This not only protects the lender’s investment, but also ensures that homeowners are not burdened with unexpected repair costs shortly after purchasing the property.

Homeowners planning renovations or expansions can avoid costly mistakes by consulting with a structural engineer. These professionals can provide guidance on the feasibility of proposed changes, ensuring that they comply with building code standards and maintain the structural integrity of the home. This collaboration ensures that the homeowner’s vision is realized without compromising the overall stability of the property.

While structural engineers may not always take center stage in the real estate narrative, their contributions are often critical. From pre-purchase inspections to aiding sellers in presenting their homes at their best and providing lenders with confidence, these experts play a vital role in ensuring that the foundations of our homes are sound, preventing unexpected costly repairs. When you hire a reputable, competent and experienced structural engineer, you are hiring a professional to provide you with advice without selling you a product. n

P.E., professional engineer, is a licensure for engineers granted by a state or jurisdiction after meeting specific education, experience and examination requirements. A licensed professional engineer is authorized to practice engineering and is often responsible for ensuring the safety, reliability and efficiency of engineering projects. The P.E. designation signifies a commitment to high ethical standards and a demonstrated ability to meet the rigorous qualifications set by the licensing board or authority.

State Rep. Natalie Mihalek

Whether positive or negative, some conversations leave an impression on your soul.

But there are few conversations that leave their imprint more than meeting someone who lost a son or daughter.

And for the few years I have had the honor to serve in the House of Representatives, one conversation stands out in particular for me: a mother named Kathy Briden from Pittsburgh’s North Hills.

“When your child hits their 20s, you think ‘we’re in the clear, we made it, they can do, care and manage for themselves,’” Kathy told me at a recent press conference regarding food allergies and food safety. “But to lose him in his 20s? It still doesn’t make sense.”

Kathy’s son, Matthew, was diagnosed with a severe peanut allergy when he was two years old.

According to the nonprofit organization Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), 33 million Americans live with lifethreatening food allergies, and a food allergy sends a patient to the emergency room every 10 seconds. In fact, food allergic reactions

State Representative

Dan Miller

Office of the House Democratic Majority Whip

result in 30,000 emergency room visits, 2000 hospitalizations and 150 deaths across the United States each year.

Shockingly, the prevalence of food allergies in children increased by 50% between 1997 and 2011. Between 1997 and 2008, the prevalence of peanut or tree nut allergy appears to have more than tripled in U.S. children. At this point, one in 13 children has a life-threatening food allergy and the number of new diagnoses is rising.

My family is fortunate enough that none of us suffer from a food allergy. But my children’s active social lives mean a lot of visitors, and it is a common occurrence that a parent would make certain I understand what their son or daughter can or cannot eat.

But Matthew was 28 years old and knew very well what he could and could not eat. For much of his life, he routinely carried two EpiPens.

The incident occurred in 2022, shortly after Matthew, a graduate from the University of Massachusetts, returned to Western Pennsylvania. He was at a restaurant on a first date, and as soon as he didn’t feel well, he gave himself an EpiPen and went home.

Harrisburg Office

121 Main Capitol, Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 783-1850

Digital ID is Coming — and Pennsylvania Needs to be Ready

These days it seems like more people are using their phones for a variety of daily life activities. And more and more often, smartphones are essentially replacing physical wallets as people link their payments, insurance and other important documents or services to their digital wallets.

I believe it is time for Pennsylvania to meet people where they are and embrace mobile technology and digital records by creating a mobile ID program. This goes beyond mere convenience, but would create in our commonwealth a secure, privacy-protecting and easy-to-use technology that would serve as a companion of a physical ID.

This is a point worth stressing — a mobile ID would not replace a physical ID card in all instances or uses, but would be an option for those who want to take advantage of it. Nor would this simply be a photo of your existing state ID — a mobile ID works through an app on your smartphone to verify and protect your ID digitally.

Several other states already have or are developing a mobile

Mt. Lebanon Office

650 Washington Road, Suite 102 Pittsburgh, PA 15234 (412) 343-3870

ID program in one form or another. In some states, like Maryland, these IDs are being implemented through existing Apple and Google digital wallet applications, much like a credit card. The Maryland program has reportedly been quite popular among residents, with almost 200,000 residents enrolled since it started in May 2022, per news reports.

In a sign of acceptance, the TSA announced in June of 2023 that it was partnering with Maryland and Google to allow Maryland mobile ID to be used at selected TSA airport security checkpoints as part of its PreCheck program.

As more states and the federal government embrace this technology, Pennsylvania needs to move now so that we are not left behind. My legislation would bring this technology to our commonwealth in a manner that ensures Pennsylvania follows best practices and standards.

If we are going to offer a mobile ID, then I firmly believe we must do so with the best and most secure technology available. Security must be a primary consideration when choosing a mobile ID product or service.

A few hours later, still feeling ill, he gave himself another EpiPen and went to the hospital. He passed away roughly 30 minutes after arrival.

The press conference mentioned earlier in this article was to highlight legislation that I have been working on with Rep. Arvind Venkat (D-Allegheny). It very much could have made a difference for Matthew.

The legislation is House Bill 1869. It was approved 24–1 by the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee this past February and can now be considered by the full House.

If enacted, it would require the Department of Health to create a poster about food allergies and for restaurants to display this information in food preparation areas. In addition, the bill would direct restaurants to include language on their menus that reminds customers to advise restaurant staff of their relevant food allergies.

In speaking with medical professionals, we are learning more about the root cause of food allergies. By knowing their origin and causes, we may then develop scientific means to avoid food allergy emergencies before they occur.

Until then, we must rely on education and information to prevent such tragedies. Having earned bipartisan attention, House Bill 1869 aims to make that information readily available.

While working on this legislation, I used FARE’s website, foodallergy.org, where an abundance of information and resources about living with food allergies is available. If you or someone you love has food allergies, please consider reviewing this site. n

In March, the House Transportation Committee held a hearing on mobile IDs and heard from experts from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania State Police on the potential benefits of this technology, as well as concerns they and other legislators may have.

This hearing was the first step in the long legislative process to approving digital IDs for use in Pennsylvania, and my office is committed to working with experts and other lawmakers to ensure that we have the most robust and secure program possible.

A mobile ID program is one way that Pennsylvania state government can and should be aggressively pursuing innovation. Not merely for the sake of innovation or change, but to meet people where they are and to improve access to state services or programs. n

Fourth of July

Fireworks

Upper St. Clair and South Fayette are teaming up again this year to present Fourth of July fireworks!

Celebrate Independence Day with a joint fireworks display launched from Fairview Park, located at 129 Greenwood Dr., South Fayette.

The free display can be viewed from Fairview Park (parking is very limited inside the park), as well as at various areas around the Township, including the Community & Recreation Center. Parking is available at the C&RC, located at 1551 Mayview Rd.

Fireworks will begin at dusk (approximately 9:30 p.m.).

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

Outstanding Citizen Award

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.

On Feb. 28, 2024, Judge Arnoni held the ceremony for the 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award. This ceremony was a little different than those in previous years. Instead of nominating one individual, Judge Arnoni recognized the Public Service Safety employees: police, fire and EMS. Upper St. Clair Police Chief Jon Wharton, Bethel Park Police Chief Dave Arnold, Bethel Park Fire Chief David Gerber and Upper St. Clair firefighter Drew Gerlach appeared to accept the acknowledgement and award for their daily commitment to providing safety to our communities.

Along with Jessica Elder, Judge Arnoni wishes to bring attention to the local heroes and Public Service Safety employees who help keep our communities safe. On one instance on Jan. 1, 2024, a dog named Nash escaped his collar and went missing. The amazing citizens of both Upper St. Clair and Bethel Park did what they could to help in locating Nash, allowing the use of their yards as feeding stations, as well as camera and trap set-up stations. Bethel Park’s Evey True Value Hardware allowed the use of their sewage cameras, Sue from USC Public Works continuously printed out pipe maps for certain requested areas, Ardolino’s Pizza took flyers out on their deliveries and Marty Griffin from KDKA provided a live interview.

The final piece of this rescue mission was a K9 search and rescue dog, Belle, and her partner, Joe Hartung, from the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company. Jessica had helped in other rescue missions, but had never been able to find a search dog. Joe Hartung

saw via Facebook their need for a rescue dog and reached out. Although the outcome was not what everyone had hoped for, the family was brought closure.

Having the two communities pull together and combine their resources was truly amazing.

“The definition of a community can’t be put into words, but is an action of love and support from pure strangers who have now become extended family. From our hearts to each and all of yours, we thank you,” said Jessica Elder.

In terms of our police, fire and EMS, we truly cannot comprehend the circumstances in which they find themselves on an almost daily basis. Our first responders’ jobs require them to put themselves in harm’s way to save others. Often our first interaction with a police officer, firefighter or EMT may be on the worst day of our lives, such as being rescued from a burning building, being rushed to a hospital for a life-threatening accident or illness or arriving at your home for a domestic call. Their bravery has far-reaching effects, not only impacting the victims, but also their family and friends.

Of course, we appreciate what they do when we need them, but we should appreciate their service every day. They also carry out small acts of kindness, such as helping a stranded motorist or assisting a senior citizen, etc.

“Our first responders make our communities a great place to live and work, and I salute them,” says Judge Arnoni. n

(l/r) Bethel Park Fire Chief Dave Gerber, Bethel Park Police Chief Dave Arnold, Judge Ron Arnoni, Upper St. Clair Police Chief Jon Wharton, Upper St. Clair firefighter Drew Gerlach

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 2027*

Pamela L. Enck Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Jason H. Graves Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 2027*

Todd D. Burlingame Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2025*

Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 724-941-1199 2027*

Richard I. Thomas At Large

Day 412-831-9000 2027*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Township Administration

Public Safety

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 6250

Director of Recreation & Leisure Services Other

2024 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.

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings

Jan. 2, 2024

Approximately nine people attended.

Reorganization of Board of Commissioners

• Newly elected Commissioner Jason H. Graves and re-elected Commissioners Ronald J. Pardini, Dante R. Plutko, Jr. and Richard I. Thomas were sworn into office as Commissioners of the Township of Upper St. Clair by the Honorable Ronald A. Arnoni.

• Commissioner Paoly was elected President of the Board of Commissioners.

• Commissioner Plutko was elected Vice President of the Board of Commissioners.

The Board

• Closed the Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0009 — St. Clair Country Club Golf Building — Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 1-24 Re. PLC23-0009 — St. Clair Country Club Golf Building — Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Continued Public Hearing PLC23-1303 — Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Amend the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM Restricted Light Industrial District to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on Feb. 5, 2024.

• Adopted Bill No. 2-24 Re. PLC23-0012 — McMurray Road Subdivision Plan — Preliminary/ Final Subdivision Approval.

• Approved the 2024–2025 Township Traffic Engineer Fee Schedule.

• Adopted Bill No. 3-24 Re. 2024 Bond Issue Parameters Ordinance.

Approval of Contracts:

• Reed Oil, Inc. OPIS Daily

89 Octane Gasoline, Diesel Pittsburgh Average New Castle, Pa. Index Plus Fixed Fuel and Winterized Diesel Margin of between Fuel Additive $.0700 and $.0400 on each gallon of 89 Octane Gasoline depending on order quantity, a Fixed Margin Price for Diesel Fuel of $.0700 and $.0500, depending on order quantity, on each gallon and $.0300 on Winterized Diesel Fuel additive on each gallon of Diesel Fuel.

Feb. 5, 2024

Approximately seven people attended.

The Board

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1303 — Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Amend the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM Restricted Light Industrial District to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on March 4, 2024.

• Approved the 2024–2025 Township Engineer Fee Schedule.

Approval of Contracts:

Public Works Vehicles

• C. Harper Commercial Truck Center $103,245.00

Three (3) 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Pick-Up Trucks @ $34,415.00 each

• Hill International Trucks NA LLC $118,284.00

One (1) 2025 International

HV507 Cab & Chassis

• Hill International Trucks NA LLC $115,784.00

One (1) 2025 International

HV507 Cab & Chassis

• Laurel Ford $116,440.00

Two (2) 2024 Ford F600

Super Duty 4x4 Regular Cab & Chassis Trucks @ $58,220.00 each

• Laurel Ford $60,150.00

One (1) 2024 Ford F550 4x4

Cab & Chassis

Tri-Community South Vehicles

• Pfund Superior Sales Co., Inc. $559,140.00

Three (3) 2023 Ford F-450 4x4 Ambulance Prep Chassis (remounts) @ $186,380.00 each

Morton Fields Complex

• Cast & Baker Corporation $4,482,365.25

Contract 1 — Site Construction

• DiMarco Construction

Contract 2 — Building Construction

Base Bid $1,721,434.00

• Alternate #2 (Pavilion No. 1) 175,000.00

• Alternate #3 (Pavilion No. 2) 153,000.00

Total for Contract 2 $2,049,434.00

• First American Industries $392,300.00

Contract 4 — Plumbing Construction

• East West Manufacturing Company $75,000.00

Contract 5 — HVAC Construction

• Gateway Engineers $320,000.00

Construction Administration and Inspection Services Public Works Projects

• Robinson Pipe Cleaning Company $1,436,300.00

2024 Sanitary Sewer Video Inspection

• General Recreation, Inc. $70,240.00

Baker Park Playground Renovation

March 4, 2024

Approximately seven people attended.

The Board

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1303 — Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Amend the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM Restricted Light Industrial District.

• Failed to Adopt Bill No. 4-24 Re. PLC23-1303 — Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Amend the Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM Restricted Light Industrial District.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1758 Re. Approval for a Grant Application through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Program for the Old Farm Road Trail Project.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1759 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.

• Authorized the Purchase of Fire Apparatus.

• Approved the following Appointments and Reappointments to the Municipal Authority Board: Municipal Authority Board – Five-year term

Kenneth L. Brown

Mark D. Christie

Karen M. McElhinny

Charles E. Mertz, Jr.

Approval of Contracts:

• Stephenson Equipment, Inc. $143,418.00

Two (2) 9’ Aluminum Dump Body Upfits

• Stephenson Equipment, Inc. $105,378.00

One (1) 10’6” Aluminum Dump Body Upfit

• Mele & Mele & Sons, Inc., $2,397,891.28

2024 Annual Street Resurfacing with:

Alternate #1 – Municipal Building Parking Lots

Alternate #2 – Baker Park Basketball Courts and Paths

• Russell Standard Corp., $39,000.00

2024 Street Crack Sealing

Community Day ’24 ’24

Planned Activities

Community Day 2024 kicks off on Saturday, May 18, 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 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.

Gilfillan Farm will be open noon–4 p.m. Come learn about the Farm! Horses with Hope, the USC Historical Society and the USCHS Interact Club will be there, too.

The Petting Zoo will be operating from 12:30–4 p.m. These activities will be offered free of charge, other than a minimal fee for food and milk for the animals.

Head out to the Volunteer Fire Department’s main station on Route 19 from noon–4 p.m. to get a look at the trucks, equipment and more.

The Toddler Trot starts at 12:30 p.m. Stop by Founders’ Field 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

Special thanks to:

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

Student Volunteer Chairs:

Overall: Dan Seewald, Reilly Caslin

Entertainment: Greg Boughner, Ava Casciato

Parade: Lucia Miles, Joe Donnelly

Publicity: Ella Zegarelli

Parking: Shubham Patel, Ethan Jooste

Information Table: Evie Sullivan

T-Shirts: Emma Hicks

Theme Activity: Reilly Caslin

Toddler Trot: Dan Seewald, Trevor McClintock-Comeaux and Freshman Student Council

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

Schedule

Saturday, May 18

8 a.m.

Community Fair Setup

McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) Parking Lot

10 a.m. Kick-off Ceremony

11 a.m.–4 p.m.

USC Veterans Park

Community Fair Area

11 a.m.–4 p.m. Make a Mess Activities Municipal Park

11:30 a.m. ................................................................. Parade

Noon Hottest Dog Contest Stage Area — Pre–registration form on page 23

Noon–3 p.m. Log House Open House

Noon–4 p.m. ................................

Gilfillan Farm Activities

Gilfillan Farm area

Volunteer Fire Department Tours

Main Station, Route 19 (See page 24)

12:30 p.m. ........................................................ Toddler Trot Founder’s Field

12:30–4 p.m. Petting Zoo Municipal Field

1:30 p.m.

Baking Contest Winners Announced

McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) — Pre-registration form on page 23

1–4 p.m. Entertainment Stage Area

3 p.m. Duck Race McLaughlin Run

Shuttle Bus Parking

•

•

•

School

Permit parking only will be allowed in the Public Works parking lot on Truxton Drive. Parking is available at the USC High School, Eisenhower Elementary and Fort Couch Middle School.

Community Day ‘24

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

A Community Day wrap-up, including a complete list of all patrons, will appear in the Fall 2024 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank our kind and generous patrons for their financial and in-kind support of Community Day 2024!

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 10 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 Jan. 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.

Be sure to get a sweet treat at the Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens’ Community Day bake sale by visiting the MAC.

• Aluminum and steel cans

• Cardboard (must be placed in cart)

• Paper (magazines, junk mail, paper bags, office paper)

• Glass bottles and jars

What Can and Cannot Be Recycled?

• Plastic bags

• No food or liquid

• Plastic packaging, bubble wrap or aluminum foil

What About Plastic?

As a reminder, the Township has entered into a new trash and recycling contract with Waste Management, effective at the beginning of this year. As part of the new contract, all trash and recycling must be placed inside the carts. For a full list of recyclable and non-recyclable items, visit wm.com/recycleright. For more information on the Township’s trash and recycling guidelines, visit its website using the QR code to the left.

THERE IS NO CURBSIDE COLLECTION FOR THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

• Building/construction materials

• Household hazardous waste – refer to page 4 for collection dates or Allegheny County website

• Automobile parts/tires

• Ashes, dirt, rocks, stones, edging, tree stumps

• Electronic items – refer to e-cycling collection dates on page 4

• Appliances containing freon

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 APPLY

2024 Trash–Recycling

As a reminder, all trash and recycling must be placed inside your carts. Bulk item pickup will be on the second full week of each month.

Holiday Collection

Holiday Collection Date

Memorial Day Week Thursday, May 30, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, May 31 for regular Thursday collection

July 4th Week Wednesday, July 3, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, July 5 for regular Thursday collection

RECYCLE RIGHT

Special Collections and Drop Off Events

E-Cycling (Electronics Recycling)

Saturday — May 11, June 8, July 13 and Aug. 10 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 electric appliances. One television per vehicle per collection accepted. There is a $25 charge for 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 11, June 8, July 13, Aug. 10 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 and three inches in diameter.

Glass Recycling (an alternative to curbside recycling)

Village Square Mall, 5000 Oxford Drive, Bethel Park (upper level in the parking lot)

Individuals can drop off glass bottles, jars and jugs of all colors (no sorting required).

Sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair, Borough of Dormont, Municipality of Bethel Park and Municipality of Mt. Lebanon in partnership with Oxford.

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.

A building permit is required for the construction or installation of any swimming pool that can hold a depth of 24 inches or more of water. This includes permanent in-ground, above-ground and storable/temporary pools. Any pool that contains a filter system, heater or electrical lighting requires a second electrical permit.

In order to prevent children from gaining uncontrolled access to the pool, a barrier must be constructed. The height of the barrier or fence must be at least 48 inches above grade. A successful pool barrier prevents children from getting over, under or through it and protects their safety. n

For more information, visit twpusc.org/buildingpermits.

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. Visit twpusc.org/recreationcenter for more information about all our Township parks. n

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

Play unit and swing set

*Under construction. New playground and shelter for 2024.

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

Brookside Park

3.7 acres

Byrnwick Park

7.05 acres

Clair Park

2.2 acres

Gilfillan Park

59.57 acres

Hays Park

4.21 acres

Johnston Park

2.48 acres

Marmion Field

11.32 acres

Morton Complex

7.5 acres

Municipal Park

29.75 acres

Ravine Park 10.51 acres

Trotwood Park

8 acres

Tustin Park

6.52 acres

Veterans Park

Wiltshire Park

11.2 acres

1 lighted basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

1 basketball court

1 basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

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

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

1 basketball court, 1 tennis/pickleball court

1 basketball court

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

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)

Natural area

Play unit and swing set

Play unit with slide and swing set

Play unit and swing set

Play unit and swing set

Play unit

*Under Construction in 2024. New sports complex to be open in 2025.

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

Play unit and swing set

Play unit and swing set

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The most up-to-date details and registration information for recreation programs can be found at twpusc.org/recreationcenter. Questions? Call 412- 221-1099

Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens

The Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens had a full schedule of activities this past spring! From celebrating Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day to food tastings and entertainment from some of the cast of the USCHS musical “Newsies,” slowing down is not part of their agenda.

If you’re age 55 or older and retired, consider joining the group, which meets most Wednesdays at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC), located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Rd. (Spouses of eligible members may also join, even if under the age of 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 throughout the year. n

USC Recreation and

USC Township Silver Card

The Township Silver Card is free and available to residents ages 62 and older. To obtain a Silver Card and receive access to a select number of group exercise classes, USC’s three-hole golf course, as well as a complimentary summer tennis permit, visit the Community and Recreation Center, 1551 Mayview Road.

Silver card applications are available 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday–Friday. A valid photo ID showing USC residency is required upon application. Residents who acquired their Silver Card prior to 2019 are encouraged to re-apply for and receive a new, updated card.

USCSD Gold Card

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

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

ACCESS Paratransit and Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior

Applications for

Citizen

Plus

Pittsburgh

and

ACCESS

Shared-Ride Paratransit Service are available at the C&RC. Applications 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.

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

Members of the “Newsies” cast gave a private performance for the group.

Love was in the air on Valentine’s Day!

Learning about a total solar eclipse with Larry McHenry

Gail Griffith gave a fun presentation about Pittsburgh inventors and inventions.

A St. Patrick’s Day party with entertainment from Craig Zinger

Celebrating Rina’s 85th birthday

Leisure Services

It’s hard to believe, but it has already been 15 years since the Community & Recreation Center opened.

In the summer of 2009, after more than five years of planning and preparation, the C&RC opened up its doors to the public. Since then, there have been thousands of programs, hundreds of thousands of people in and out of the facility and more memorable moments than could be counted — and none of that would have been possible without the work of staff members, volunteers, Township officials and residents throughout the past 15 years.

In addition to running and operating the building itself, the Recreation Department needed to grow, resulting in the hiring of 12 new full-time and 75 new part-time Recreation staff members in the first year. Paul Besterman, the director of recreation and leisure services, guided the development and growth of the employees who worked with him and the C&RC itself.

Including Paul, staff members who have been around since the opening of the C&RC are Chris Biswick, Storm Foreman, Amy Kerman, Melissa Lindberg and Lynn Walcoff. Hundreds of staff members have played a role in the C&RC’s operation and growth, many of whom still work there today. When the Township decided to build the C&RC, it was viewed as a 100-year commitment, and every current and former staff member, volunteer and visitor have made it what it is now — a hub of health, wellness, recreation and fitness for Upper St. Clair and surrounding communities.

Storm, Amy and Lynn have all lived in USC for a long time, and as staff members

and residents, they each have unique perspectives as to how the C&RC has impacted the community.

“From its inception, the C&RC was destined to change our community for the better,” said Lynn. “I, along with other residents, members and guests, value the recreational and wellness opportunities and activities provided. At the C&RC, we continue to strive each day to achieve our goal of making a difference in the lives of everyone who walks through our doors.”

“I have seen so many positive moments at the C&RC since it opened, from the youth all the way to the seniors,” said Storm. “I find it amazing to see the different uses for different people. One of our members has become such a regular that we call him the Mayor of the C&RC. This is kind of a home-away-from-home for him.”

“The C&RC has added a feeling of community, and I have been honored to see it from both perspectives, as a resident and an employee,” said Amy. “People want to move here because Upper St. Clair offers it all — a great place to live, a great school district and a place to belong.”

There was an initial learning curve, but the C&RC is now a well-oiled machine that welcomed a record 291,501 visitors in 2023. And despite membership levels being at an all-time high, the staff is still finding ways to improve the space, expand offerings and give members what they desire.

Many of the first part-time employees were teenagers and college students who needed a summer job or a way to make some extra money. That’s still true today; much of the present-day staff is made up

of high schoolers, college students and even retirees.

But those first employees and visitors from 15 years ago haven’t disappeared. Now, they come back with kids of their own — signing them up for swim lessons, dropping them off at Camp St. Clair and helping them get their first job.

Additional current staff members who helped transform the C&RC from an idea to a key feature in Upper St. Clair include Township Manager Matt Serakowski, Assistant Township Manager Mark Mansfield, Director of Information Technology Ed Poljak and Buildings and Grounds Administrator Jeremy Lemley. The support from the Board of Commissioners cannot be overlooked either. Building this facility was a risk, but the Board followed through on its commitment to provide the community with a top-class facility to improve the quality of life in Upper St. Clair, and it continues to follow through on that commitment today.

There’s no telling what the C&RC will look like in the next 15 years. There are curveballs sometimes, like when the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into the whole world’s plans. But the Recreation Department not only survived, it continued to thrive during and after the pandemic — and it came out the other side even stronger.

Fifteen years from now, the passion, commitment and dedication of the Township and Recreation staff will still be there, and there will be even more memories and accomplishments of which to be proud. n

“ I know I want to avoid a nursing home. What other choices do I have?”

A n Envisage membership makes it possible to age independently and successfully in the place you call home—today and tomorrow.

Learn more about the smart way to age at home.

USC Street Resurfacing 2024

Below are the Upper St. Clair streets scheduled to be resurfaced during the 2024 season. Visit the Township website at twpusc.org for up-to-date information for possible changes.

Berkshire Drive Old Washington Road to Southern Hilands Drive

Brookhaven Lane Rosssmoor Drive to Paving Line

Cedarvue Drive Thomtree Drive to Pinetree Drive

Clair Drive Meadowcrest Drive to Terminus

Corteland Drive Edgewood Drive to Oaklawn Drive

Cremona Drive Wiltshire Drive to Amesbury Drive

Eton Drive Lambeth Drive to Cramden Drive

Fairgreen Drive Boyce Road to Pinetree Drive

Fairway Circle Country Club Drive to Cul-de-sac

Hollydale Drive Laredo Drive to Township Line

Keifer Drive Patton Drive to Paving Line

Kent Drive Murdstone Road to Cul-de-sac

Lambeth Drive Wiltshire Drive to Berkshire Drive

Lambeth Drive Ext. Washington Road to Old Washington Road

Lattidome Drive Shenandoah Drive to Morton Road

Monterey Drive Corteland Drive to Terminus

Old Lesnett Road Lesnett Road to Lesnett Road

Oxford Place Lambeth Drive to Cul-de-sac

Patton Drive Keifer Drive to Terminus

Polaris Circle Mayview Road to Cul-de-sac

Rossmoor Drive 263 Rossmoor Drive to Corteland Drive

Taper Drive Cook School Road to Second Tilton Drive

Thames Place Lambeth Drive to Cul-de-sac

Upper St. Clair Drive McMillan Road to Cul-de-sac

Wiltshire Drive Lambeth Drive to Cremona Drive

York Drive Lambeth Drive to Bershire Drive

USC Needs Your Input

Upper St. Clair is currently in the process of updating its comprehensive plan, adopted in 2015, and the Township would appreciate your feedback. A comprehensive plan is a strategic and visionary document that outlines goals and policies related to land use, transportation, housing, economic development, parks and recreation and more. It serves as a guiding framework for decision-making and ensures that future development and redevelopment aligns with community values and needs.

As part of this process, the Township has launched a public survey to gather input from residents and stakeholders. The survey will be open until Friday, June 7, 2024. Scan the QR code to respond to the survey, which should take no more than eight to 10 minutes to complete.

Additionally, members of the community will have another opportunity to provide feedback on the comprehensive plan at Community Day on May 18. The comprehensive plan consultants will have a table and activity for residents to participate in and provide input.

Your input is vital in shaping the future of Upper St. Clair!

Township Opens New Flex Space and Study Rooms

In case you missed it, the Township opened its new flex space and study rooms in February. The flex space is located on the third floor of the library and includes five separate study rooms, plus one large meeting room. The study rooms have seating for up to four people, while the meeting room can fit up to six.

The study rooms and meeting rooms require reservation through the library’s LibCal website. To use the study rooms, visitors will need a valid Allegheny County library card. You can sign up for a library card at the USC library.

The flex space, which features a lounge area and additional tables and seating, will be used for certain programs and events. Visitors are welcome to enjoy this space without reservation. n

412.407.5720 office

412.606.7785 cell

jonetterealestate@gmail.com

CPR Classes

Be prepared for the emergencies in your life and neighborhood! Tri-Community South EMS offers CPR classes on the first Tuesday of every month. Classes are held at 6 p.m. at its headquarters at 5490 Progress Boulevard in Bethel Park.

For more information, call Natalie at Tri-Community South EMS at 412-831-3710 or visit the TCS website at tcsems.org.

DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PROTECTION

Summer Fire Safety Tips

According to the United States Fire Administration, the summer season is one of the most dangerous times of the year for injuries and fatalities related to fires. Summer should be a time for fun in the sun, but with high temperatures, high expectations of good times and sometimes lower inhibitions, emergencies can happen. With that being said, here are some key summer safety tips to consider and embrace.

Outdoor Cooking

Grilling is a favorite summer activity. Here is a list of items to consider when doing so:

• Remain at least 10 feet away from all structures

• When starting your grill, be sure to leave it open

• Never leave any operating or hot grill unattended

• Keep all grills clean and grease-free

• Thoroughly wet down used charcoal briquettes after they have cooled and dispose in an approved receptacle away from your house or other structures

• In the event of a fire, use an extinguisher

• Grilling areas should be a kid- and petfree zone

Fire Pits and Heaters

While summers are usually hot, the nights can sometimes be a little chilly. Fire pits and heaters for the patio often serve as a great solution to the cool temperatures, but they also pose a fire risk. To remain safe when using a fire pit or heater, be sure to:

• Keep fire pits at least 10 feet away from structures

• Never leave a fire pit or heater unattended

• Avoid using a fire pit or heater if it is windy

• Avoid placing fire pits and heaters on flammable surfaces or near trees and shrubs, including low hanging branches

Gasoline and Other Flammable Liquids

• Store gasoline and other flammables in approved containers in cool, dark environments OUTSIDE of your home or basement

• Never refill lawn mowers or other gasoline-powered equipment while in operation or hot

• Keep flammable liquids away from sources of ignition

Open Burning

Opening burning may only be conducted in accordance with Allegheny County Health Department XXI:215.50

“Open Burning.”

a. No material other than clean wood, propane or natural gas may be open burned EXCEPT for:

i. Commercially available fire logs, paraffin logs or wood pellets

ii. Paper or commercial smokeless fire starters in order to start a fire

iii. Charcoal for the preparation of food only

b. Fires may be no larger than 3’ wide by 3’ long by 2’ high

c. Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure and 15 feet from your lot line. Fires in approved containers may be located no closer than 15 feet from any structure.

d. An approved container should have a screen to provide a spark arrester.

e. Wood burning activities are prohibited on Air Quality Action days

f. Burning may be prohibited if considered a nuisance, based on the following criteria:

i. The severity of the amount of pollutants

ii. The duration or frequency or open burning

iii. The topography of the surroundings

iv. The meteorological conditions

v. Must have a spark resistor over top of the fire

vi. Must have an operable water hose or fire extinguisher present

Heat Safety

Heat related illnesses and deaths can happen during any kind of activity, particularly outdoor activities. Three primary heat related illnesses are:

Heat Cramps

The combination of rising body temperature and a loss of electrolytes through sweat. Signs and symptoms are:

• Feeling your muscles tighten and harden

• Clammy skin

• Heavy sweating

• Tiredness or weakness

Heat Exhaustion

When the body loses excessive water and salt, usually due to sweating, heat exhaustion can occur. Signs and symptoms include:

• Pale, ashen or moist skin

• Muscle cramps

• Fatigue, weakness or exhaustion

• Nausea or vomiting

Heat Stroke

Seek medical help immediately if someone is suffering from heat stroke. Some signs include:

• Body temperature above 103 degrees

• Skin that is flushed, dry and hot to the touch; sweating has usually stopped

• Headache, dizziness, confusion or other signs of altered mental status

• Convulsions or unresponsiveness

Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department Citizens Fire Academy

If you have ever considered becoming a firefighter, consider joining the USCVFD Citizens Fire Academy. It is a perfect look into the job of a firefighter, including simulations, demonstrations and real-world scenarios. This is a seven-week program with classes on Thursday evenings at the main fire station located at 2001 Washington Rd. The final class will be on a Saturday and it will be a live burn at an approved burn building. Registration is open to all Upper St. Clair residents and/or business owners over the age of 18.

Participants will receive personal protective equipment to wear and will participate in real-life hands-on activities such as operating a hose line, climb ladders, using the jaws of life for auto extrication, performing forcible entry on a door, searching an area with a thermal imaging camera and the chance to extinguish a live fire.

The academy will begin in early September. For more information or to register for the academy, visit the volunteer fire department website at uscvfd.com or stop by the station any Wednesday evening.

EVERYONE’S INVITED

When Wednesday, June 5

Time 5:00–6:30

Where Third Floor of USC Library

Who Free and Open to All

Details

Drinks and snacks provided

Giveaways and prizes for children

Art contest for all kids pre-k through high school

Meet TODAY’s staff, Miss Colleen and other Library staff

Everybody needs a friend — be ours.

Scan the QR code for more information about the Friends of the Library of USC.

From the Director’s Desk

Chris Gmiter, Library Director

The recent “Director’s Desk” columns in this publication have been taken up with talk of the future and the (now completed!) renovations of the library. With that being said, if you haven’t checked out the new Library space, please visit any time and take a look.

I recently found a trove of library photo albums and scrap books that span the years of roughly 1970 to 1985. I want to share some of the photos with you all, both for a jog down memory lane and as a depiction of the library’s space as it grew into what it is now.

The man pictured here is Mr. George Grumbaugh, formerly of Bartley Road. George’s significance to the library is extremely noteworthy, as he was the first recipient of an Upper

The library scenes in this photo collage may look familiar to you, as the library in its entirety occupied what is now the Adult Fiction area until the 1986 expansion of the Municipal Building.

St. Clair Township Library card. Mr. Grumbaugh’s card number was “1.”

When word got out that Mr. Grumbaugh and his wife were retiring to Florida in 1978, he was featured in a local news publication. Mr. Grumbaugh humbly stated that being the first USC Library cardholder was “no big deal” and that “(he) heard a new library had just opened up the street and decided to take a look.”

This was when the library was located at the intersection of Washington Road and Highland Road in the Mitchell’s Corner Shopping Center.

Today, the library currently has approximately 11,000 USC residents listed as borrowers, so Mr. Grumbaugh was the first of many.

Let’s look at some photos from past library celebrations:

And lastly, we have a flyer advertising for the 1978 Summer Reading Club. It seems to be based on a certain film which takes place in a galaxy far, far away.

This concludes our historical journey for this issue. I hope that you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed searchng the archives for this story. Until next issue!

— Chris

A crowd at the July 16, 1978, Friends of the Library Book Sale, which was held in the Municipal Building lobby, is the photo shown below.

A pillar decorated with a depiction of Uncle Sam commemorating the Bicentennial was found in one of the photo albums, as well.

The National Library Week banner from 1977 is seen in the photo below.

The library still carries an abundance of audiovisual materials in the form of DVDs and audiobooks, but check out our record collection from the 1970s.

In this photo, we have a depiction of the library’s reference desk in 1975.

Here we see a musical storytime for kids from the mid-’70s.

Kids Library

Gangs and Outlaws of Western Pennsylvania

In-Person Event

Wednesday, May 15 6:30–8 p.m.

Join author and historian Thomas White as he explores Western Pennsylvania’s criminal history. Hear the stories of the Flathead Gang and the first armored car robbery, Pittsburgh’s first bank heist and Glenn and Irene — the area’s own Bonnie and Clyde. Learn about the notorious Cooley Gang who terrified Fayette County in the 1890s, the escape of the Biddle Boys and many other tales of the region’s dark side.

Storyteller Alan Irving

In-Person Event

Wednesday, May 22 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join professional Storyteller Alan Irvine for an evening full of fantastic stories. Alan is well-known for his knowledge of history and folk tales and has led various local walking tours and appeared at various libraries, schools and events, including the Three Rivers Storytelling Festival and the National Storytellers Conference.

USC Township Library Hours

Monday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Tuesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Friday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

The library will be closed : Saturday, May 18 for Community Day, Monday, May 27 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

Adult Programs

Unless otherwise noted, all events take place in the library multi-purpose room.

The Truth About Skincare: How to Nourish Your Skin from the Inside and Out In-Person Event

Wednesday, May 29 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Dr. Kreizenbeck from Horvath Dermatology to learn how to nourish your skin from the inside out. Dr. Kreizenbeck has been practicing in the South Hills since 2014. She practices medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology.

Crafting Hour In-Person Event

June 4 | July 2 | Aug. 6 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Calling all knitters, crocheters, embroiderers and fiber artists of every kind! Come join our stitching circle! We share advice and inspiration, chat with new friends and work on our projects in a supportive group setting.

Disney Vacation In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 5: 6:30–7:30 p.m. OR Thursday, June 6: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join Kim and Eric Lancy to explore the ins and outs of a Disney vacation with local, experienced travel advisors. There are two time slots for this program.

Board Game Night for Adults In-Person

Event

June 6 | July 11 | Aug. 1 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Looking for some fun? Join the Upper St. Clair Library for a board game night! Whether you’re looking to play an old favorite or try something new, we’re open

to almost anything. Everyone is welcome, regardless of skill level, so don’t worry if you don’t know many games — we all help each other out. The game selection is based on the attendees’ interests and the availability of board and card games. Feel free to come and go as you please.

Game nights will be held from 4:30–6:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. You can bring your games to share or choose from the library’s collection. Grab your friends and come to the library for a night of board games!

Author Visit & Signing with Anna Harsh In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 12 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Anna Harsh, founder and director of Allegro Dance Company and author of La Danza-Conflict, Passion and Healing as she speaks about her passion for dance, Italian heritage and adventures throughout Italy. Experience firsthand authentic dances, traditions, history and culture. Coffee and biscotti will be served.

Jazz Concert with M&M Music

In-Person Event

Saturday, June 15 1–2 p.m.

Join Upper St Clair Township Library and M&M Music school, along with some of the finest jazz musicians in all of Pittsburgh. Joseph Seman (sax), Michael Bernabe (piano), Denzel Chismar-Oliver (bass) and Jason Washington Jr. (drums) will be playing a mix of modern and classic jazz selections.

Adult Programs

Create Your Own Backyard Wildlife Habitat In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 19 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join award-winning bird photographer Doris Dumrauf for an educational and entertaining presentation about the simple steps required to create a backyard wildlife habitat for birds and insects.

Belly Dance Workshop In-Person Event

Wednesday, June 26 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Belly dance is an ancient dance from many countries, which has traveled and spread all over the world. This workshop will present belly dance for everybody, introducing a brief history, demo and dance class. All are welcome — no experience necessary. Instructor Amethyst began belly dancing in 1997 and is certified by Ansuya Rathor (original member of Bellydance Superstars), having earned her certification in Florida and California.

What Made George Washington Great? In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 3 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Todd DePastino will talk about our country’s founding father, George Washington, a man who didn’t like to reveal his private life; preferring to be remembered as the white marble “Father of the Country,” the man on the dollar bill. But Washington was as fascinating as the other founders and, unlike the others, his greatness relied not on special talents or abilities, but rather his character. This event takes place on the third floor of the library.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Dementia, but Were Afraid to Ask In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 10 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Jamie Bennett for this presentation about dementia and who it affects. Do you find it difficult at times to communicate with your loved one or find yourself getting frustrated? Jamie will talk about effective communication skills. Learn about the

disease process and what to expect. Jamie will discuss navigating the healthcare system and what insurance covers regarding placement options. Community resources for in-home services will be covered.

Jamie has worked for Amedisys Hospice for the past six years, helping patients and families receive the gift of hospice and understand the Medicare Benefit, as well as presenting education seminars to caregivers, families and providing support groups in the area.

Common Birds of Western Pennsylvania

In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 17 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join award-winning bird photographer and author Doris Dumrauf for a presentation about common backyard birds. Learn fascinating details about their personalities, habitats and food preferences.

Holistic Reflexology for Good Health & Preventative Medicine

In-Person Event

Thursday, July 18 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Join in for an informative evening about Holistic Medicine and Prevention. Dorit Brauer began her Holistic Medicine Career in the US at the Center of Integrative Medicine before joining the team of Dr. David Servan-Schreiber at UPMC.

Holistic Reflexology is covered by health insurance in Europe and Israel, and physicians write referrals. It is well integrated into the health care system, and scientific research studies document the positive benefits. This presentation teaches simple techniques to improve health and prevent disease. It begins with a relaxing Sound Bath Meditation. The soothing sound of Quartz Crystal Singing Bowls, which induce alpha wave level activity of the brain, balance the brain’s hemispheres and resonate within every cell of the body, creating health, balance and harmony.

Introduction into Nature Photography

In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 31 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join award-winning nature photographer Doris Dumrauf for an introduction to nature photography. Learn how to improve your skills by developing an eye for subjects, focusing attention on them and studying their environment.

Jazz Concert with M&M Music

In-Person Event

Saturday, Aug. 10 1–2 p.m.

Join M&M Music for a fun vocal performance by Martina Bernabe singing a mix of pop, musical theatre and jazz selections.

Try-It Tuesday

Try-It Tuesday, with local artist Judé Ernest, is a regular monthly USC Library in-person adult art program. Limited to 15 participants. If you are unable to make it, please cancel ahead of time to allow for waitlisted participants. A $5 donation is suggested. These events take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Try-It Tuesday: Beautiful Flower Painting Techniques

In-Person Event

Wednesday, July 9 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

In this program, you will explore the joy and magic of acrylic painting with special tools and materials. Participants will be introduced to several unexpected and readily available tools and learn to use them while painting flowers with acrylic paints.

Try-It Tuesday: Beaded Trinket Bowls

In-Person Event

Tuesday, Aug. 13

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Learn to create a practical, yet whimsical, embellished felt trinket bowl from felt, embroidery thread and beads. You will learn how to make a pattern, then cut, bead, hand sew and form a trinket bowl of your own making.

Summer Sparks: Igniting Connections Through Family Adventures!

Haley Roberts, Administrative Coordinator, Extended Day Services

As the warm breeze of summer beckons, it’s the perfect time to deepen bonds and create lasting memories through shared family adventures. Here are some simple, yet impactful, ways families can connect while exploring some local places of interest.

Nature walks in the Laurel Highlands. Take a day trip to witness the stunning natural landscapes of the Laurel Highlands and embark on leisurely nature walks with your children. Explore trails at Ohiopyle State Park, Forbes State Forest or Laurel Hill State Park. Encourage your children to observe wildlife, listen to bird songs and feel the earth beneath their feet.

Farm visits and U-Pick adventures. Support local farmers and cultivate a connection to the land by visiting nearby farms. Spend a day picking fresh berries at Trax Farms in Finleyville or exploring Simmons Farm in McMurray. Engage your children in conversations about where their food comes from and the importance of sustainable agriculture.

Cultural excursions in Pittsburgh. Immerse your family in the rich cultural heritage of Pittsburgh by visiting museums, art galleries and historical sites. Explore exhibits at the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, take a ride on the incline for panoramic views of the city or stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods of Lawrenceville and the Strip District.

Outdoor movie nights under the stars. Create magical evenings filled with starlit skies and family-friendly films by hosting outdoor movie nights in your backyard. Set up a projector, spread out blankets and pillows and snuggle up together as you enjoy some children-friendly classics.

MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER

Campfire cooking and storytelling. Gather around the campfire for evenings filled with storytelling, laughter and delicious campfire cuisine. Roast marshmallows for s’mores, grill hot dogs on a stick and share tales of adventure and imagination.

Encourage your children to express themselves through storytelling and creativity.

River adventures on the Allegheny. Beat the summer heat by embarking on river adventures along the Allegheny River. Rent kayaks or canoes from local outfitters like Kayak Pittsburgh and paddle along scenic waterways. Take breaks to explore riverbanks and take in the views.

Community gardening and planting projects. Foster a love for gardening and environmental stewardship by participating in community gardening initiatives or starting your own planting projects at home. Visit local community gardens or cultivate your own vegetable patch filled with tomatoes, peppers and herbs.

By engaging in summer adventures, families can strengthen connections, foster empathy and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Let this summer be a time of exploration, growth and joy for you and your children in the beauty and vibrancy of our region. n

See ad for Extended Day Services on page 42.

Horses with Hope Returns to Gilfillan Farm

The month of May marks the much-anticipated return of the Horses with Hope herd to the scenic pastures of Gilfillan Farm for another exciting year!

Alongside its renowned therapeutic riding services, this season offers equine-assisted learning programs, four weeks of summer camp, collaborative initiatives with local schools and opportunities for participants, volunteers and supporters.

As equine programming resumes at Gilfillan Farm, Horses with Hope extends an invitation for program volunteers and certified instructors to join its growing team. Volunteers play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of the program, fostering personal growth and fulfillment for participants. No prior experience is necessary, schedules are flexible and individuals aged 14 and over are welcome to make a difference. For more information on volunteering opportunities, visit horseswithhope.org/ volunteer. For those with a current PATH Intl., CECTH or CHA certification, or those willing to pursue certification, consider joining the Horses with Hope instructor team. n

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 8, as the Fifth Annual Belmont Jewel gallops into the St. Clair Country Club. Don your finest derby attire, complete with hats for a spirited hat contest and enjoy an evening of festive fun! Complimentary cocktails and appetizers begin at 5 p.m. Watch the 156th Belmont Stakes Run for the Carnations and try your luck at games, silent auction items and raffles before enjoying dinner and music.

Tickets are $150 per person or $1250 for a table of 10 guests. For more information or to secure your tickets, visit hwhbelmontjewel2024. eventbrite.com. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your business through event sponsorship, while making a meaningful impact on the local community. Four levels of sponsorship are available with benefits including ads in the event program and banner signage. Join in the spirit of giving back at the Highmark Walk on Saturday, June 22, starting from the Stage AE parking lot on the North Shore. This family-friendly event, accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, offers a morning of fun for all ages. Make it a day of fun — create a team of friends and “neigh-bors” for a larger impact! Follow the registration link on the Horses with Hope website at horseswithhope. org/events. One hundred percent of funds raised by Horses with Hope registrants will directly benefit participants and programs, enriching the lives of individuals in the community with emotional, physical and cognitive needs through evidencebased equine-assisted activities.

For more details on programming, events and avenues for support, visit horseswithhope.org.

A Restless Heart Among the Stars

Ted Wolsko, 81, spent his childhood daydreaming about anything and everything to do with airplanes and the stars they chased — and every spare minute gazing.

“We lived really close to the Allegheny County Airport. My dad would take me to watch, and I just fell in love a little bit more with each takeoff and landing,” he says. “That’s where my fascination with space began.”

“How lucky was I that my very first job was at the Westinghouse Astronuclear Laboratory working on Project NERVA and the man-to-Mars mission,” Ted says. He raised three children with his wife of six decades, Connie, as his career spanned from the space program to programming and even human resources consulting.

Though he officially retired in 2001, he remained active in the community with part-time roles at the Peters Township Recreation Center and Clayton Engineering in Bridgeville. As the years passed, Ted could feel himself really slowing down.

“I just chalked it up to getting older, and, like a lot of men my age, I ignored some things I was experiencing when it came to my health,” he says. “I wouldn’t admit that I had a problem, but Connie could see it — even though I would try to hide it from her. It got to the point where I had to sit down for 10 minutes after walking to the mailbox, and she knew I had to do something about it.”

Ted’s disease, aortic stenosis, occurs when the valve between the lower left heart chamber and the body’s main artery (aorta) narrows, restricting its ability to open all the way. A progressive ailment, severe cases of aortic stenosis — and the resulting reduction of blood flow — can lead to death without treatment.

Andy C. Kiser, MD, Physician-in-Chief of Cardiovascular Services at St. Clair Health, had a clear message for Ted — one that extends to anyone who might be experiencing symptoms associated with heart disease.

“Don’t ignore the signs. If you’re feeling specific shortness of breath or discomfort, or you just don’t have the same energy anymore, the time to act is now,” he says.

After an echocardiogram confirmed the need for additional testing, Dr. Kiser and the multidisciplinary valve clinic team at St. Clair Health evaluated Ted further.

“One of the great things about St. Clair Health is that everything you need is right under one roof — your cardiothoracic surgeons, interventional cardiologists, anesthesiologists and radiologists are all working together in the same place,” Dr. Kiser says. “And we have a clinical liaison that helps you navigate every step.”

In short order, the team recommended a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for Ted, which entails using a catheter to replace the diseased heart valve with a new, man-made valve through a very small incision in the leg.

According to Dr. Kiser, “The benefits are tremendous. You want to be home, back to the things you love to do with the people you love to do them with as soon as possible, and that’s what the TAVR is designed to deliver.”

According to Ted, “It was amazing — and immediate. I felt

normal again and almost couldn’t believe it — I could breathe again. And I went home the very next day!”

Ted was so enthused after his TAVR that he asked Dr. Kiser what he could possibly do to thank him and the team for their efforts. He actually offered to cut his grass — that’s how good Ted felt.

“There are so many extremely dedicated and caring people at St. Clair who do an unbelievable job,” he says. “And I’m extremely grateful of everything they’ve done for me and my family.” n

St. Clair Health offers world-class medical advancements that can make a world of difference — with minimal interruption to your life.

To learn more about TAVR at St. Clair Health, visit stclair.org/tavr/.

See ad on page 46.

FRIDAY,

Dr. Andy Kiser

Upper St. Clair School District

Board of School Directors

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

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

The list of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors 2023-2024 meeting dates is available on the District’s website: uscsd.k12.pa.us/schoolboard. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. in the district administration building.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

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.

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

Hallie H. Snyder hsnyder@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*

Justin Lamber jlamber@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*

Angela B. Petersen apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*

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

Kelly P. Hanna khanna01@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*

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

Barbara L. Bolas bbolas@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2027*

Scott

Ray

Ray

Bolas Recognized for Service

Barbara Bolas, a 36-year member of the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors, was recognized by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) and its Honor Roll of School Board Service.

Since 1983, PSBA has been recognizing school board members who earn “honor roll” status upon completing eight years of service and then again at every four-year increment.

Lena Hanna, PSBA’s Western Pennsylvania member outreach manager, praised Bolas and her years of dedicated service to students, the Upper St. Clair community and public education.

Last fall, Bolas was honored with the 2023 William Howard Day Award from the Pennsylvania Public Education Foundation. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to public education.

Bolas was first elected to the school board in 1985. She served four terms as president and five as vice president. In

2001, she was elected president of PSBA. She served as a National School Boards Association board member from 2001–2010 and was the national association’s president in 2008–2009.

A leader in public education at the local, state and national levels, Bolas has been recognized for her service and advocacy. In 2022, she was honored with the Voice of Advocacy Award from the Western Pennsylvania Forum of School Superintendents. She is also a recipient of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association’s Chief Executive Officer’s Distinguished Service Pin, which recognizes its members, staff and education advocates for their extraordinary service and work on behalf of the association.

Bolas holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the State University of New York. She and her husband, Jim, are the parents of two Upper St. Clair High School graduates. n

Dr. Wagner Named Penguins MVP

Dr. Timothy Wagner, Upper St. Clair High School principal, has been named a 2024 Pittsburgh Penguins MVP (Most Valuable Principal). He was among 15 Allegheny County building administrators being commended, who were recognized at a Penguins hockey game this past March.

“Dr. Wagner was selected among an extensive pool of nominations, which is a testament to his outstanding leadership in advancing teaching and learning, his commitment to excellence and his dedication to the success of all learners within the Upper St. Clair school community,” said Dr. Jill Jacoby, Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU) assistant executive director of teaching and learning.

The MVP program was sponsored by the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Grable Foundation and the AIU. The 15 MVPs received two tickets to the Penguins game, a customized Pens jersey and a $1000 donation for their respective school.

A member of the Upper St. Clair School District staff since 2007, Dr. Wagner joined the USCHS administration in 2015 as the associate principal for program planning and innovation. He was named the school’s principal in 2019. In May 2023, Dr. Wagner was selected as Pennsylvania’s 2023 Principal of the Year. n

August 23

USC tackles Mt. Lebanon (Senior Rec)

September 6

USC battles Franklin Regional (New Family Dinner)

September 27

USC takes on Peters Twp. (Homecoming)

October 18

USC challenges Moon (Halls of Fame — event on Oct. 17)

October 25

USC faces Baldwin (Youth Night)

Tim Wagner

Barbara Bolas

Financial Reality Fair

“I was blown away to learn how expensive life is,” said Nate Stohl, USCHS junior.

Upper St. Clair High School, in partnership with Clearview Federal Credit Union, offered a Financial Reality Fair for the school’s 350 juniors this past February. The Financial Reality Fair provides students with a hands-on budgeting simulation designed to gain practical knowledge and awareness of personal financial management in a one-day, ‘real world’ environment.

The event was coordinated by Jared Nicholson, USCHS math teacher, who also teaches a semester-long Financial Literacy course and a College in High School (CHS) Financial Accounting course through Robert Morris University. Parent volunteers helped to staff the many booths and tables throughout the day.

Prior to the event, students were asked to research the cost of a college they were interested in attending, as well as a specific career. These two data points helped determine a monthly student loan payment amount, as well as a realistic starting salary.

“Using Google Sheets, taxes were automatically calculated and students could see what their monthly take home pay would be based upon that salary,” said Nicholson. “The program was educational, fun, interactive and customizable for students so they could really get an idea of what their future lifestyle and financial success might look like.”

It’s that broader view of life beyond high school and college that resonated with junior Ryan LaRocco.

“The event makes me think about life beyond school,” said Ryan. “Right now, I feel so focused on my classes for next year and applying to colleges, but this event has broadened my scope of what my life will look like when finally working and has made me think ahead, too.”

Held in the school’s small gym, students had approximately 90 minutes to budget their monthly expenses to make ends meet, while accounting for housing, insurance, cell phone, transportation, food and other essentials.

“At one table, students would decide which type of home they wanted to live in and find the monthly cost of that home. Another table enabled them to pick a car and car insurance,” said Nicholson. “After students visited each table and totaled their monthly expenses, they met with a financial advisor to see how much money they had left over each month and discuss what they could do with that leftover money — invest more, save for short/ long term goals, pay off high interest debt, donate, etc. If they did not have leftover money, they had to visit the ‘part-time job’ table.”

As a parent volunteer, Denny Albertini enjoyed being part of helping students learn what kinds of life decisions they will face in the future.

“I worked the housing options table, and I loved talking with the students as they considered the balance of freedom, amenities and expense,” said Albertini. “I think many students gained a better appreciation for how expensive housing can be. Many weren’t too pleased with the concept of a security deposit!”

Parent volunteer Gina Swanson helped students with their monthly food budget. Students were tasked with deciding how often they would prepare their own meals vs. eating in restaurants.

“They all wanted to save money by cooking their own meals, but most admitted that they don’t know how to cook much other than eggs or ramen. Additionally, the thought of having to shop

for groceries or clean their kitchens didn’t occur to them, especially after working all day,” said Swanson. “Some of the students admitted a fondness for daily Starbucks, Dunkin, Chipotle or DoorDash — and when I asked them to add up how much they spent in a week, there was often a sense of disbelief.”

The cost of groceries was a bit of a shock for many students.

“One student admitted he had no idea that it would cost so much — even at the lowest level of the suggested budget,” said Swanson. “One of my favorite comments came from a student who wondered how difficult it must be to feed an entire family, not just one person.”

Students were challenged to find creative solutions to make ends meet.

“While most students had sticker shock about their food budget, there were some creative suggestions to stretch their budget, including eating at their part-time restaurant job, getting a job where there is an employee cafeteria — where prices would probably be lower, sharing meals with friends (so they didn’t have to cook every day) and visiting their parents more often in the hopes of mom cooking (I endorsed this idea!),” said Swanson.

The event inspired junior Ava Kasper to want to start better understanding the importance of saving and budgeting.

“It was eye-opening how fast expenses add up and how important it is to prioritize what expenses are necessary for you and which ones are not,” said Ava. “It was helpful to be put in a situation where we have to think about what we want to spend more on versus what we can spend less on. There were also expenses I have never thought about, like how expensive pets are.”

For junior Carly Shontz, the most challenging aspect was the decision-making.

“When picking the type of car I want to drive, I didn’t know if I should get a used/new car or what size car to get,” said Carly. “I realized how important the decision is because the price range was so different, while also considering other payments/costs.”

After students had budgeted for their essentials, they had the option to explore and purchase other goods and services, including pet ownership, hair/nails/spa treatments, gym/fitness memberships and charitable donations.

“Knowing that I am close to being an adult is scary, but I feel a lot more knowledgeable and ready,” said Carly. “I know the basic things that I need to pay for and remember when I am dealing with money (that I would not have known about prior to this). I also liked how there were booths for recreational/ fun things like nails, pets and gym memberships! It was nice to know what the regular costs were for these not-so-important parts of life. They can add up fast!”

For many students, the event was eye-opening. Most had never considered the monthly cost of living independently.

“The Financial Reality Fair helped me learn more about balancing different expenses that I will have to worry about in the future,” said junior Emma Toosi. “It also made me realize the costs of certain things. I did not realize some expenses cost so much. I’ve never thought about the cost of furniture, but after this experience I was shocked by how expensive it was.”

To keep the simulation as realistic as possible, students were required to visit and spin the “Wheel of Reality” to receive one of life’s surprises. Students would suddenly have to factor in the unexpected cost of car repairs, a stolen credit card, a dropped phone or doctor visit or benefit from selling an item on eBay, a bonus at work or a tax refund.

Nicholson finds that grade 11 is a great time to delve more deeply into budgeting in order to have a lasting impact.

“Juniors are a good grade to do this with because they are starting to get part-time jobs, drive, pay for gas, etc.,” said Nicholson. “Teaching students important financial habits while young can help set them up for better futures since they will know how to responsibly manage their finances and make financially sound choices from a young age.”

Parent volunteers agree that the fair experience was beneficial for students.

“The kids definitely understood the idea that they needed to look at their overall spending and try to keep everything in balance,” said Swanson. “They realized they may need to make sacrifices in some areas to make room in the budget for others. Additionally, there is not one ‘right’ way to construct the budget, but they need to tailor it to their own specific circumstances.” n

Cake4Kids

An Upper St. Clair High School junior is on a mission to spread joy one birthday cake at a time. Ishaan Sharma, along with his mom (Priyanka Sharma), is establishing a Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of Cake4Kids.

“Our mission is to provide birthday cakes to at-risk/underserved youth because we believe everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves such a seemingly simple joy,” said Ishaan. “We have already connected with and signed on a few agencies to work with, and are now in the volunteer recruitment process.”

To date, Cake4Kids has partnered with Beverly’s Birthdays, the Bair Foundation and the South Hills Interfaith Movement. Founded in 2010, Cake4Kids is a national nonprofit with 29 chapters in 17 states that has delivered more than 60,000 cakes to children. The Greater Pittsburgh Chapter is Pennsylvania’s first.

“I learned about Cake4Kids through a family friend. After researching the organization a bit more, I saw that they were accepting new chapter applications, so my mom and I submitted one,” said Ishaan. “It’s an untapped niche that affects far more people in our area than you could imagine.”

Combining his love of baking and his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of area children, Cake4Kids was a natural fit for Ishaan.

“I’ve loved to bake for several years, and I wanted to see if I could productively extend my passion,” he said. “I’ve been blessed to grow up in the situation that I have, and not everyone is so lucky. Something that most of us take for granted, the joy of just celebrating your birthday, is not as common as I want it to be. I wanted to change that, and I did it in the best way I knew how — cakes.”

In addition to baking, Ishaan takes an active leadership role in several activities at USCHS. He serves as treasurer of the USC Robotics Club, extemporaneous captain of the Speech & Debate team and treasurer of the Technology Student Association.

Ishaan and Mrs. Sharma are currently recruiting volunteer bakers who are age 16 or older and have moderate baking experience. Volunteers donate all the ingredients and supplies to bake cakes in their own homes and then deliver them to the partner agencies.

For

“People who can ice cakes (nothing fancy needed) are preferred, but if you are good at simple cookies/brownies, we can work with that,” he said. “They will have access to a portal where agencies submit requests, and bakers then take up the request, bake and deliver to the agency.” n

more information, email Ishaan at sharmai@uscstudents.org or visit the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of Cake4Kids online.

Ishaan Sharma

Fort Couch Finishes Fifth at International Future City Competition

This past February, students from Fort Couch Middle School placed fifth at the international DiscoverE 2024 Future City® Competition, which was held in Washington, D.C. Eighth graders Felix Chen, Rory Wilson and Claire Birmingham, along with faculty advisor Jason O’Roark, gifted and accelerated math teacher, represented the team.

Forty-six teams from across the United States and China competed in the event.

“Getting in the top five is a big deal….that’s where the prizes start,” said O’Roark. “We have a big trophy in my classroom and the team won $750 for the school’s STEM program.”

Since last fall, middle school students in 37 U.S. regions, as well as teams from all over the world, have imagined, designed and built cities for DiscoverE’s 2023-2024 Future City Competition. This year’s theme, Electrify Your Future, challenged students to imagine and design future cities that are fully electric and powered by clean, green and renewable energy sources.

“The kids did a great job presenting at nationals and answering questions from panels of engineers,” said O’Roark. “This is the best anyone from the Pittsburgh region has done since 2004.”

More than 35 Fort Couch students worked throughout the fall to transform the current city of San Antonio, Chile, located just west of Santiago on the coast, into “Tierra Fuerza” (roughly Spanish for earth power). Students who worked on the project included eighth graders Aadhya Agrawal, Aanya Agrawal, Maria Alfredson Themudo, Sam An, Claire Birmingham, Taro Carr, Felix Chen, Malo Dubreil, Ahana Mendhi, Grace Nasman, Michaela Pacella, Cynthia Shen, Suhavi Singh, Hope Waldron, John Whitman, Rory Wilson and Joey Wyse; and seventh graders James Conner, Isabella Dastur, Claire Dietiker, Lindsey Fitzgerald, Finley Garvey, Darsh Kakkad, Aadi Kaushik, Lindsay Krofcheck, Will Kreizenbeck, Theodora Lagonis, Owen Maher, Kate McClintockComeaux, Clara McLean, Mira Murthy, Avik Pandey, Seth Pedretti, Daniel Smith, Arya Zevallos and Maddy Zevallos.

The Fort Couch Middle School team earned the opportunity to compete at the international event by placing first at the 2024 Pittsburgh Regional Future City Competition this past January. This marked the second year in a row that Fort Couch won the regional competition. n

Odyssey of the Mind Spontaneous Fun Day

This past February, two Boyce Middle School teams earned first and second place respectively, at the Western Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind Spontaneous Fun Day.

The USC Mushroom Frogs, a team of fifth graders, earned first place in Division 1 (grades 2–5). Coached by Katherine Zesch and Amber Rowlands, team members include Lila Dressel, Ava Fingal, Kyri Link, Emma Marquez, Frannie Rapport and Liv Zesch. The sixth-grade team, USC RatSplat, earned second place in Division 2 (grades 6–8). Team members include Lydia Calkins, Caroline Fingal, Drew Holzer, Keira Mycoff and Jacob Reinford. The team is coached by Josh Mycoff and John Reinford.

Nine of Upper St. Clair’s 23 Odyssey of the Mind teams attended the event.

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. 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.

Odyssey of the Mind is an international STEAM program that fosters creative problemsolving skills, teamwork and ownership in students from grades K through 12. For more information about Odyssey of the Mind in Upper St. Clair, visit uscootm.com or email uscootm@gmail.com. See related OM article on page 57. n

Fort Couch Future City team

Fort Couch team at International Competition

Team Mushroom Frogs

Team RatSplat

Upper St. Clair High School musicians have earned recognition through the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA).

Four Named to PMEA Ensembles

Senior Gabe Pacella, who plays trumpet, was named to the PMEA All-State Jazz Ensemble and performed this past April. Gabe is the first Upper St. Clair student in several years to successfully audition for this All-State ensemble.

In addition, Maria Khila (baritone saxophone), Carlee Santel (trumpet) and Lauren Tenney (clarinet) represented Upper St. Clair in the PMEA Region 1 Band this past February. Students auditioned for the Region I Band during the PMEA District 1 Band Festival held this January.

Six Qualify for PMEA Region Choir

This past March, Upper St. Clair High School students Greg Boughner, Elliot Bruno, Reese Copenhaver, Phoebe Glunt, Adam Levine and Isabel Vilensky participated in the PMEA Region 1 Choir.

The students, who auditioned for the Region I Choir during the PMEA District 1 Chorus Festival this January, are led by Laura Surguine, choir director and drama teacher.

Three Selected for PMEA District Orchestra

Percussionist Isaac Bernstein, along with violinists Miriam Gutensohn and Daniel Tung were selected for the PMEA All-State orchestra and performed with them this April in Erie, Pa. The USC orchestra students are led by Karen Chisholm, orchestra director.

Two Named to All-State Band

Representing Upper St. Clair with the PMEA All-State Band were junior Carlee Santel, trumpet, and senior Lauren Tenney, clarinet. The USCHS students, who performed at the PMEA All-State Festival this April, are led by Dr. John Seybert, performing arts curriculum leader and director of high school bands.

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization of more than 4,500 members, dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The organization promotes and supports quality music education, learning and performance, as well as promoting and supporting music education in schools and communities. PMEA is affiliated with The National Association for Music Education.

USCHS Literary Arts Magazine Earns First Place

Montage, a student-produced literary arts magazine at USCHS, recently earned first place recognition in the annual Scholastic Yearbook, Magazine and Newspaper Contest, sponsored by the American Scholastic Press Association.

The 2022–23 staff who produced the award-winning publication included Lisa Choreklieva, editor-in-chief, Ujal Gautam, literary editor, Aarav Patil, marketing director, Vincent Watson, art editor, and Rohit Satttuluri, Mana Barimani and Opal Miller, design editors. English teacher Daniela Buccilli serves as faculty adviser.

“Lisa planned and executed a minimalist design for the issue,” said Buccilli. “As a student who lived in Russia and Ukraine, with family still in Ukraine, she wanted to create an issue that spoke quietly of the seriousness of our times. She was inspired by the illustrations in the poetry collection Milk and Honey.”

The annual contest provides feedback on page design, story layout, graphics, headlining, cover design, advertising placement, photography and other publication elements. Each school yearbook and magazine is scored on a point system and is awarded first, second or third place in its classification.

“We are so proud of all those associated with last year’s Montage,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal. “The USCHS literary magazine has a tradition of excellence, and I’m so pleased that our students continue to benefit from the internal satisfaction of creative ventures and the external accolades on work well-done.” n

The 2023–24 issue of Montage is anticipated to be available this month.

Isaac Bernstein Miriam Gutensohn Daniel Tung

Carlee Santel Lauren Tenney

(l/r) Gabe Pacella, Maria Khila, Carlee Santel and Lauren Tenney

Fairchild Challenge

Boyce students earned second place in the Fairchild Challenge at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Sixth graders Somi Valancius, Rebecca Zahalsky, Sara Alhajhusain, YuRui Lin, Sarah Staub, Kenzie Petrick, Brayden Wong and Praachi Sreeram competed in the middle school division of the Visual Arts & Writing Challenge — Harmony in Hues: Mural for Climate Justice.

Led by gifted education teacher Sherri Garvey, the Boyce students were tasked with creating a model mural that represents a climate/environmental issue in their community, its impact and some solutions. The middle school students focused their efforts on air pollution from vehicle and lawn emissions.

“Lawn equipment emissions may not be the first thing one would think of when considering the culprits of air pollution,” the Boyce students wrote. “However, gas-powered lawn equipment in Allegheny County generated more than 100,000 tons of air and climate pollution in 2020 — as much as more than one million cars. The analysis ranks the county among the worst in Pennsylvania and nationally, in this category.”

As proposed solutions, the students recommended converting to electric lawn equipment, as well as updating Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Emissions and Inspection and Maintenance Program, which was last revised nearly 20 years ago.

“All of the Fairchild Challenges involve learning about environmental science and demonstrating that knowledge through writing and art,” said Garvey. “I appreciate the interdisciplinary

Inline Hockey Teams Earn Gold

Upper St. Clair Inline Hockey recently won championships at both the high school and middle school levels. The teams compete in the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Roller Hockey League (PIRHL).

High school varsity players include Isaac Bernstein (leader in scoring and assists

approach to learning and the opportunity to combine art and science.”

The students’ winning artwork was on display throughout February in the Center for Sustainable Landscapes Gallery at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Oakland.

This marked the first year that Boyce students participated in the Fairchild Challenge, a free, multidisciplinary, standardsbased environmental education outreach program for high school, middle school and elementary school students. The Challenge invites students to investigate the thorniest environmental issues, devise imaginative and effective responses to these issues and take action to address them. The Fairchild Challenge was designed and initiated by Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables, Florida and adopted by Phipps as a satellite partner in 2008. n

for the varsity division), Caleb Guarino (second in scoring and assists), Cohen Marx, Chase MacDougall, Claire Manalo, Jack Bavaro, Jeffrey Hurst, Alex Coleman, Yuhong Shi, Zac Starr and Kristen Albertini (goalie). The team’s head coach is Eric Bernstein and assistant coach is Matt Guarino.

Varsity had a 15–3 record in the regular season and 3–0 in playoffs.

The Upper St. Clair middle school team prevailed in the championship three-game series against North Allegheny, and in the final third game brought home the gold. Team members include Abe Scobel, Austin Michulka, Brenton Wilson, Cade Otto, Charlie Senske, Charlie Young, Elliott Anderson, James Conner, Matthew Campagna, Matthew Hendrych, Rocco Mastramico, Ryan Duda and Tanner Evans (lead scorer in the middle school division). The middle school team is led by head coaches Leon Young and Todd Evans and assistant coach Isaac Bernstein. n

For more information, visit USCinlinehockey.com. Sign-ups/team placements will be held June 2 and August 18. Visit their booth at Community Day for more information.

(l/r) Somi Valancius, Sarah Staub, Sara Alhajhusain, Praachi Sreeram, Kenzie Petrick, YuRui Lin and Brayden Wong

USC Inline Hocky team — High School Champions

Middle School Champs

The audience was tapping their feet and humming along with the students on stage during Upper St. Clair High School’s 2024 spring musical, “Newsies.”

Based on the classic 1992 Disney film of the same name, “Newsies” was even bigger and brighter on stage! With a humorous and heartfelt book by Harvey Fierstein and an energized and engaging score by icons Alan Menken and Jack Feldman, “Newsies” was an inspiring, family-friendly show. Key numbers included the show-stopping “Seize the Day,” power ballad “Santa Fe” and fun songs like “Watch What Happens,” “That’s Rich” and “the Bottom Line.”

This year’s show was directed by Dr. Stephen Torquato, USCHS social studies teacher. He and the show’s creative team selected “Newsies” for its large cast and upbeat message. Nearly 130 students were involved with this year’s musical production, including on stage, on the crew or in the orchestra pit. Students also had the opportunity to take on leadership roles that included student director, student stage manager, student producer and dance captains. n

Photos courtesy of John Barsotti

A Decade of Innovation

Six teams of USCHS students presented their work to a panel of professionals from EAFab Corp as part of the Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting course. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the course that tasks students with solving real-world challenges faced by organizations and corporations.

Throughout the last decade, Upper St. Clair students have worked with engineers and other executives from companies that have included EAFab, Eaton Corp, All Clad Metalcrafters LLC, Universal Electric, OZ Enterprises and Tom Brown, Inc. The course was developed by Fred Peskorski, technology education teacher, in collaboration with colleagues Brian Garlick and Tom Isaac from South Fayette High School, both of whom have since retired from teaching.

“My favorite part about this course is seeing the maturation of the students as they go from largely theoretical learning to actual problem-solving, while working with professionals,” said Peskorski. “It’s also very interesting to see the diverse set of problems that our corporate partners bring to us each year.”

The problems are varied in scope and often require students to explore new subject areas that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn about. Most recently, each student team was presented with a specific challenge to research and develop solutions for EAFab. Problems ranged from developing an automated inventory process to designing storage racks that can securely hold pipes and other supplies with a weight capacity of up to 1500 pounds.

This set of presentations marked the first time that students have used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accomplish their goal.

“Like most teachers, I have some reservations about the appropriate use of AI,” said Peskorski. “But, like so many disruptive technologies that have come before, I think it’s best to find a way to responsibly incorporate it into our courses when applicable.”

Students Henry Ginsburg, Amanda Aidar and Luke Ralyea were tasked with developing an app or algorithm to more efficiently use pipe resources, ultimately reducing waste and saving money. Creating the algorithm required significant coding. By leveraging AI, the students were able to work beyond their skill level in order to achieve their goal.

“The students used AI to help them solve their problem,” said Peskorski. “It was a very interactive experience that taught them how to use AI effectively, while also learning about the code writing process itself.”

Using AI to help write the code required some trial and error, which provided a great lesson in prompt optimization. By refining the text of their AI request, they could achieve more accurate results.

“As long as students are open about how they leverage its use to find the best possible solution for our partners, I applaud the effort,” said Peskorski. “In many cases, these young students will be able to open the eyes of some of their older corporate counterparts to the potential of AI.”

One of the benefits of this course is that students get to learn about a variety of types and sizes of industries.

“They have experience working with relatively small local companies to international multi-billion-dollar companies,” said Peskorski. “In each case, our students tour the manufacturing facilities, as well as the front office spaces. It can only be beneficial for them to see both the similarities of these companies but also the different challenges that they face.”

The Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting students will be working with Eaton Corp and then All-Clad to finish the semester. Peskorski is confident that this course helps prepare students for life beyond high school.

“If correspondence from former students is any indication, they will go on to college and industry a step ahead of most of their peers no matter what the major or occupation,” he said. “I am fortunate to have formed

lasting relationships with many of my former STEAM students and without exception, they all found great value in having taken this course.”

Over the last decade, the course has impacted hundreds of USCHS graduates.

“It’s always a treat when I receive a random email from a former student thanking me for the experiences that they had in this class,” said Peskorski. “I don’t know that students truly appreciate how special this class is until after they finish and have time to reflect on it.” n

EAFab Corp Challenges

Inventory Management

Lucas Bishop, Vatsal Kalra and Reilly Caslin Revamp and automate EAFab Corp inventory process that communicates with the purchasing department.

Radius Gauge

Stephen Meyer, Yog Trivedi and Rohit Sattuluri

Design and build a “fits-right-every-time” gauge setup to check the radius of rolled pipe.

Storage Rack

Susan Liu, Marco Carone and Jacob Artnak

Design storage racks for manufacturing area that can securely hold pipes, plates, round bar, flat bar and angles.

Rendered 3D Environment

Aarti Vishwakarma, Hunter Maher and Stepan Engelman

Design and render shop environments that can be used to showcase future engineering projects.

Welding Awareness Campaign

Autumn Ma, JD Tenney and Vir Kamat

Create a community involvement program for AWS Welding Month to boost EAFab’s presence in the industry.

Pipe Nesting

Henry Ginsburg, Luke Ralyea and Amanda Aidar

Develop an app or algorithm for pipe nesting that accounts for pipe drops to ultimately reduce waste.

Any corporations or organizations that may be interested in partnering with the Honors STEAM Innovation & Consulting course should contact Fred Peskorski at fpeskorski@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

STEAM STEM

Fort Couch Team Qualifies for State STEM Competition

Fort Couch students placed first in the 6–8 division of the regional STEM Design Challenge this March. The eighth-grade team of John Whitman, Joey Wyse, Sam An and Felix Chen now advances to the state-level competition in Harrisburg.

The Boyce sixth-grade team of Michael Clarke, Sarah Staub, Brayden Wong and Rebecca Zahalsky placed second, and the Fort Couch seventh-grade team of Claire Dietiker, Theodora Lagonis, Sunny Liu, Lindsey Fitzgerald and Mira Murthy placed fourth.

The students were coached by gifted/accelerated math teachers Jason O’Roark, at Fort Couch, and Kimberly Bartolacci, at Boyce.

Sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific and run by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, the STEM Design Challenge encourages students to apply STEM skills using K’Nex products to design and build a structure that accomplishes the given goal. n

Fort Couch Reaches Science Bowl Final Four

Fort Couch students Maria Alfredson Themudo, Claire Dietiker, Avik Pandey, Cynthia Shen and Lyman Thomson made the final four at the Western Pennsylvania Science Bowl (WPSB) this past March.

By reaching the final four, the Fort Couch team earned $300 for the school’s science program and small awards for each team member. The team was coached by Jason O’Roark, gifted education and accelerated math teacher. n

Eight Teams Advance to Odyssey of the Mind State Finals

Eight Upper St. Clair teams finished in the top three of their respective divisions at the Western Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament which were held this past April.

Division 1 (grades 3–5)

First Place: Eisenhower, Performance Problem

Team members: Kara Mercer, Amelia Wilkinson, Isidora Lukic, Abigail Elders, Zomorrod Zalloum, Henry Wazenegger and Colton Lenhart. Coaches: Stefani Wilkinson and Jelena Lukic

Second Place: Streams, Vehicle Problem

Team members: Julia Ross, Ellie Finnegan, Roman Duffy, Emily Michalak, Quin Thorp, Ben Caesar and Cole Hirzel. Coaches: Brett Duffy and Nadine Michalak

Second Place: Boyce, Balsa Problem

Team members: Marcelina Enos, Penelope Collins, Avery Metcalf, Elliot Sams, Penny Weinberg, Kendall Zielinski and Lula Griffin. Coaches: Sarah Sams and Jake Collins

Division 2 (grades 6–8)

First Place: Boyce, Technical Problem

Team members: Keira Mycoff, Jacob Reinford,

Caroline Fingal, Drew Holzer and Lydia Calkins. Coaches: John Reinford and Josh Mycoff

Second Place: Fort Couch Middle School, Performance Problem

Team members: Seth Pedretti, Enoch Katru, Violet McLeod, Austin Szpara, Luciana Putorti and Scarlett Burgess. Coaches: Kyle Burgess and Kristy Szpara

Third Place: Boyce, Technical Problem

Team members: Emma Mycoff, Savannah Comiski, Matthew Campagna, Em Brooks, Evelyn Dolan, Eleanor Wilkinson and Luka Beric. Coaches: Denise Campagna and Stefani Wilkinson

Third Place: Fort Couch, Performance Problem

Team members: Daphne Collins, Thea Scheuerle, Parker Sams, Sam An, Ashwin Vasudevan and Nigel Bailey. Coaches: Sarah Sams and Jake Collins

Division 3 (grades 9–12)

First Place (tied): USCHS, Performance Problem

Team members: Kurt Baran, Geneva Eisinger, Lauren Ginsburg, Chloe Faist, Preston McLeod, Ian Putorti and Daniyal Badaruddin. Coaches: Dawn Predmore and Nate Eisinger

Each team of 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, teams were given eight minutes to present their solutions to 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.

Odyssey of the Mind is an international STEAM program that fosters creative problemsolving skills, teamwork and ownership in students from kindergarten through grade 12. 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. See related OM article on page 52. n

The Final Buzzer

Caleb Guarino, TODAY Intern

This past March at the Peterson Events Center, the USCHS boys’ basketball team won its second WPIAL championship in a span of four years. After a long, hard-fought season, the Panthers pursued an impressive playoff run led by senior shooting guard Chris Ito and junior center Tyler Robbins. A tough mentality and overall grit, taught by head coach Danny Holzer, assistant coach Gavin Williams and staff, gave the team the opportunity to write their names in history.

The No. 3-seeded Panthers narrowly defeated the No. 6-seeded Butler Tornadoes in the opening round. In a back-and-forth thriller, the Panthers clawed their way back from a five-point deficit at the half to advance to the second round. Ito had an impressive 19 points in the second half to ensure a St. Clair victory. “I didn’t want it to be my last game,” Ito recalled. “We worked too hard for it to end there.” Robbins would contribute an additional 20 to the score to help push the team to the second round of playoffs.

In the semi-final matchup, the Panthers defeated the No. 2-seeded Central Catholic Vikings in dominant fashion, leading the entire game. Relentless pressure from Robbins, including six blocks and 19 rebounds, helped limit the Vikings to 46 points.

When asked about his role on the court, Robbins answered, “I just try to contribute [to the team] in any way I possibly can. Whether it’s scoring points, rebounding, blocking shots or finding the open guy to make a pass…I’m just making sure we can win.”

On the offensive side, Ito would have another outstanding performance, racking up a game-high 17 points, along with five

assists and four steals. Senior shooting guard Brett Meinert added an additional 14 points to the final score. Teamwork, determination and dominance bought the Panthers a ticket to the final for a shot to win the championship.

Dominant play from the towering 6'-9" Robbins would continue in the class 6A WPIAL championship game against the Baldwin Highlanders. The Panthers started swiftly with a win in the opening tip-off, resulting in the first score of the game, an easy lay-up from Robbins. Efficient and effective ball movement later in the half led to a game-defining dunk from 6'-6" junior Kaamil Jackson. His effort set the tone as the Panthers raced to an eight-point lead before the end of the first half. All the hard work and determination throughout the season paid off with a final score of 64 to 41 in favor of Upper St. Clair. Robbins led the Panthers with 22 points, 12 rebounds and five blocked shots. Meinert added 19 points to the Panthers score by knocking down three of Upper St. Clair’s four three-point buckets.

It all led to this — “the final buzzer” — Robbins’ favorite moment and what the team had been striving for all season “when we crowned ourselves champions.” n

State Technology Conference Qualifiers

Upper St. Clair High School students garnered several top finishes at the Region 6 Technology Student Association (TSA) competition this past January. Led by technology education teacher Seth Williams, the following students qualified to compete in the state-level competition:

First Place

Ian Dvorin, Coding

Komel Nulwala, Computer-Aided Design/Engineering

Komel Nulwala, Extemporaneous Presentation

Second Place

Maddie Kovacs, Computer-Aided Design/Architecture

Aaryan Kumar, Computer-Aided Design/Engineering

Isabel Vilensky, Extemporaneous Presentation

Medha Misra, Pennsylvania — Logo Design

Third Place

Ishaan Sharma, Computer-Aided Design/Engineering

Ishaan Sharma, Extemporaneous Presentation

Eighth Place

Isabel Vilensky, Technology Bowl — Written Thirteenth Place

Abhi Kanani, Technology Bowl — Written

TSA was started by industrial arts teachers who wanted to provide opportunities for their students to be recognized for their accomplishments and was originally the American Industrial Arts Student Association (AIASA). n

Five Crowned School Spelling Bee Champs

Five Upper St. Clair students were crowned their school’s spelling bee champion, qualifying for the preliminary round of the 74th annual Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee. Adelyn Stockton (Baker), Eli Karambelkar (Eisenhower), Alexander Li (Streams), Luka Beric (Boyce) and Raana Parchuri (Fort Couch) advanced to an online test of vocabulary and spelling.

In March, the top 15 spellers from the preliminary round moved on to the final in-person event held at Point Park University-Pittsburgh Playhouse.

The school-level spelling bees, open to all students in grades 4–8, were sponsored by the Baker PTA, Eisenhower PTO, Streams PTO, Boyce PTO and Fort Couch PTSO.

The Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee is open to students through grade eight from a 27-county region. The winner of the Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee will have the opportunity to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which will take place in May 2024 in the Washington, D.C. area.

Eighth grader Raana Parchuri, two-time Fort Couch Spelling Bee Champion, won the Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee in 2023 and finished as a quarterfinalist at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. He also won the regional competition in 2020 as a fourth grader and finished second as a fifth grader in 2021.

Following are the school-level results.

Baker (grade 4)

1st place: Adelyn Stockton, in the 25th round with the winning word “lavish”

2nd place: Seetha Muthiah

3rd place: Priyal Baskota

4th place: Shan Odari

5th place: Henry Niesz

Eisenhower (grade 4)

1st place: Eli Karambelkar, in the 25th round with the winning word “Vaseline”

2nd place: Miriam Wynne

3rd place: Sahn-Barnabas Poczos

4th place: Eva Sai

5th place: Vanshika Vaishnavi Ande

Streams (grade 4)

1st place: Alexander Li, in the 21st round with the winning word “forearms”

2nd place: Jonathan Lucas

3rd place: Keerthan Inampudi

4th place: Declan Petrick

5th place: JJ Weaver

Boyce

1st place: Luka Beric, in the 23rd round with the winning word “pragmatic”

2nd place: Ivan Yanov

3rd place: Sailee Kumar

4th place: Nitya Nagireddy

5th place: Naisha Agarwal

Fort Couch

1st place: Raana Parchuri, in the 17th round with the winning word “ anthropomorphic”

2nd place: Ahana Mendhi

3rd place: Arjun Kairi

4th place: Mahi Thacker

5th place: Divya Singh

Senior Named 2024 Coca-Cola Scholar

Upper St. Clair High School senior Isaac Bernstein was named a 2024 Coca-Cola Scholar, one of 150 high school seniors from throughout the nation who received a $20,000 college scholarship.

In 2023, Isaac was selected as an 18 Under Eighteen honoree by the Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania for his efforts to support the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Visit his website platesforpitt.org for the latest on those efforts. As a 2023 High School Diplomat, he participated in a 10-day cultural enrichment experience in Japan last summer. Isaac has served as a peer tutor throughout high school and is an accomplished percussionist. In addition, he is a member of National Honor Society and the World Affairs Club.

The full list of 2024 Coca-Cola Scholars is available online at coca-colascholars.org. n

Isaac Bernstein

Adelyn Stockton Eli Karambelkar Alexander Li

Luka Beric Raana Parchuri

Arts in USC

Upper St. Clair Parent Teacher Council’s Arts in USC committee invited students in grades kindergarten through 12 to submit their best “My Happy Place” inspired artwork, and the students’ response was overwhelming! The artwork was on display this past February at the high school.

Baker Kindergarten

1st place: Eleanor Cashman, “Hugging”

2nd place: Aaron Lee, “My Happy Place”

3rd place: Daniel Rovner, “My Family and Me at the Beach”

First Grade

1st place: Sofia Elhajj, “I’m Happy When I Take Care of My Garden”

2nd place: Emmi Kolenda, “A Good Pool Day”

3rd place: Palmiro Nicolella, “The Home”

Second Grade

1st place: Medha Roy, “Sunny Sancastle Smiles”

2nd place: Vihaan Shedbalkar, “My Happy Place”

3rd place: Donald Jones, “The Rainbow Water Park”

Third Grade

1st place: Zehra Kahveci, “My Happy Place is Anywhere I Can Be with My Family”

2nd place: Evelyn Hall, “Equestrian Center”

3rd place: Ellie Turow, “Mickey and Minnie Watching Fireworks”

Fourth Grade

1st place: Fejasi Madhekar, “Candy Land Coaster”

2nd place: Louisa Gelacek, “Summer at the Lake”

3rd place: Claire McClusey, “Dusk with My Cats”

Eisenhower Kindergarten

1st place: Luna Beric, “My happy place — My Dinoworld”

2nd place: Bekham Regan, “Free”

3rd place: Charlie Matarazzo, “On the Way to Cape May”

First Grade

1st place: Mark Abdelahad, “Beach Paradise”

2nd place: Tillie Tortorice, “Castaway Bay Day”

3rd place: Sloane Collins, “Candyland”

Second Grade

1st place: Ruyter Kane, “The Multicolor Dog”

2nd place: Carli Schroeder

3rd place: John Polena, “My Ocean”

Third Grade

1st place: Mishra Laavannya, “Night Falls and Water Flows”

2nd place: Ava Qin, “Sundown”

3rd place: Sofia Yudelson

Fourth Grade

1st place: Trisha Jaiswal, “My Happy Place”

2nd place: Veer Bhargava, “With Animals”

3rd place: Ava Yarbilova

Streams Kindergarten

1st place: Evelina Kroz, “My Happy Place is Saint Kitts”

2nd place: Layth Alsahlani, “My Home is the Best Place Ever”

3rd place: Mason Weiler, “The Epcot Ball”

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

First Grade

1st place: Rishaan Kature, “My Home: My Happy Place”

2nd place: Eamon McCune, “Beach-Tendo Switch”

3rd place: Mehransh Singh Ubhi, “My Happy Place — My School Bus”

Second Grade

1st place: Sharma Shuhag, “Cartoon Land or Dream Land. It’s My Happy Land”

2nd place: Vivienne Scalise, “Under Sea Games”

3rd place: Max Izvorean, “My Happy Place”

Third Grade

1st place: Maxwell Senge, “Forest Meets the Sea”

2nd place: Layla Pantano, “Traveling Makes Me Happy”

3rd place: Olivia Donina, “Beach at Sunset”

Fourth Grade

1st place: Bella Viaud, “The Land of Mythical Creatures”

2nd place: Zamia Madokhirova, “Love at First Sight”

3rd place: Kaden O’Rourke, “Two Places at Once”

Boyce

Fifth Grade

1st place: Marie Irvine, “Nature is My Home”

2nd place: Annie Overmyer, “Beyond the Horizon”

3rd place: Saylor Lilia, “Palmetto Paradise”

Sixth Grade

1st place: Rehana Rai, “Night City”

2nd place: Arianna Carter

3rd place: Keller Friday, “My Calming Keys”

Fort Couch

1st place: Divya Singh (grade 7), “The Sound of Happiness”

2nd place: Arjun Kairi (grade 7),

“My Dream House”

3rd place: Heer Patel (grade 8), “Mountains”

High School

1st place: Addison Haerr (grade 11),

“Memories Lost in Space”

2nd place: Jackson Leco (grade 11), “Jurassic Jam”

3rd place: Caden Sarkett (grade 10), “Free Space”

Upper St. Clair School District Calendar

2024–2025

Aug 20 Grades 1–12 First Day of School

Aug 22 Kindergarten First Day of School

Sep 2 No School–Labor Day

Oct 25 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 1 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 4–5 No School–Teacher In-service

Nov 27–29 No School–Thanksgiving Recess

Dec 20 Half Day/Early Dismissal

Dec 23–31 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 1 No School–Winter Recess

Jan 20 No School–Teacher In-service

Feb 17 No School–Teacher In-service

Mar 28 No School–Teacher In-service

Apr 14–18 No School–Spring Recess

May 20 No School–Teacher In-service

May 26 No School–Memorial Day

Jun 5 High School Commencement

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

Jun 9 Teacher In-service

America Bowl

Two Upper St. Clair middle school teams captured the top spots in the 6–8 division of the America Bowl history competition this past February.

Finishing first was a team of Fort Couch eighth graders — Malo Dubreil, Raana Parchuri, John Whitman and Joey Wyse. Boyce sixth graders Luka Beric, Eamon Castrodale, Mateo Lin and Ivan Yanov placed second.

Thirty teams representing schools from throughout the region competed in the annual event, which is organized by the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. 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, U.S. Presidents, Things to See in America, Early America and Government.

Students were coached by gifted education teachers Thomas Yochum, Fort Couch and Sherri Garvey, Boyce.

Boyce

Beric,

Sibling Duo Advances to Shakespeare Finals

Two Upper St. Clair students were named finalists in the 30th Annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest at the Pittsburgh Public Theater. Siblings Kaaveri Patil (Hamlet) and Aarav Patil (Polonius) performed their scene from “Hamlet” in the Showcase of Finalists this past February at the O’Reilly Theater in downtown Pittsburgh.

Kaaveri, a seventh grader at Fort Couch, was a winner in last year’s Lower Division Monologues for her portrayal of Helena from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Aarav is a senior at the High School.

Upper St. Clair participants earning Honorable Mention were:

• Boyce: Eleanor Wilkinson (Phoebe), “As You Like It”

• USCHS: Reese Copenhaver, “Romeo & Juliet”

• USCHS: Zahra Hossain (Murderer 2), Sara Gillespie (Murderer 1) and Noshi Dabas (Clarence), “Richard III” Preparation for the Shakespeare contest began in late-October. Students worked with Thomas Yochum and Sherri Garvey, gifted/ enrichment teachers, to review, select and understand their scenes and monologues.

German Day Nets Awards

Upper St. Clair High School world language students earned a first place and two third place finishes at the 24th annual Three Rivers German Day competition this past March.

Henna Palosuo won first place in the highly-competitive drawing competition. Luis Quiroga-Castaneda won third place in the proverb poster category. Represented by J.D. Tenney, Sal Crawford, Sophie Einfeldt, Kaia Petrick and Nikhita Thakuria, the Upper St. Clair culture bowl team placed third among the 10 participating schools. The students were led by Jacob Reis, world language teacher.

“In the culture bowl trivia competition, students were asked questions in German relating to topics of history, culture, geography, language and art,” said Reis. “Students had 30 seconds to confer, then had to answer out loud, again in German. This is only the second time Upper St. Clair has placed in this competition.”

In total, 26 USCHS students attended the annual German Day competition. Every year, approximately 400 students from middle and high schools throughout Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia compete in linguistic, artistic and performance-based competitions.

Valentine Grams Raise Money for Children’s Home Boyce Middle School raised more than $1704 for the Children’s Home of Pittsburgh through a Valentine’s Day fundraiser.

Boyce students delivered the donation in person during the organization’s radiothon in conjunction with iHeart Radio’s BIG 104.7 country radio station on Feb. 14, 2024. In addition to the donation, students presented Valentine’s Day cards for the Children’s Home staff and children. The students were accompanied by school counselor Tonia Autieri and reading specialist Marissa Dyer. Held in conjunction with Random Acts of Kindness Week, the Outreach Committee of Student Council organized the Valentine Gram initiative. In exchange for a donation, friends and family members could send a Valentine message along with a POP IT to a Boyce student. The Valentine Grams were delivered to students during homeroom on Feb. 14.

Fort Couch students Malo Dubreil, Raana Parchuri, John Whitman and Joey Wyse

students Luka

Eamon Castrodale, Mateo Lin and Ivan Yanov

Aarav Patil

Kaaveri Patil

Henna Palosuo

Health Professionals Prep

Fourteen USCHS students were selected for the Health Professionals Prep (HPP) program at the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences. Participants for the 2024 spring season include seniors Ryan Arya and Anna Lao; juniors Edith Alford, Lexi Cwiklinski, Samuel Hajdu, Ryan LaRocco, Esha Lathia, Elise Parrish and Anushka Sharma; and sophomores Anoushka Barve, Valentin Cannic, Roha Pandya, Andrea Rodriguez and Adriana Rodriguez.

The HPP is an academy for high school students that provides exposure to careers in the health sciences. Students met in person every Wednesday, from January through early April. 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.

Students interactions included career awareness and exploration, clinical experience, student mentoring, academic experience, reflection, observation and influential conversations, academic planning and student success skills.

HPP is an initiative of the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences and affiliated hospitals and clinical sites of UPMC.

#HaveYou Heard? eYou

Students Shine at Asia Challenge

This past February, three teams of Upper St. Clair High School students earned recognition at the fourth annual Asia Challenge at the University of Pittsburgh.

• Roshan Mishra and Rohan Mehta: Outstanding Position Paper (Republic of Korea, Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Committee)

• Jamie Barret and Hayley Zeringue: Outstanding Position Paper (Japan, Sustainable Cities and Communities Committee)

• Max Gresh and Will Whitman: Honorable Mention Delegation (Republic of Korea, Sustainable Cities and Communities Committee)

More than 100 local students representing over a dozen schools participated in the event. Students were led by Thomas Yochum, gifted education coordinator. Sponsored by Pitt’s Asian Studies Center, the goal of Asia Challenge is to provide high school students the opportunity to learn about the history, politics, economics and cultures of Asia and the surrounding region through a handson simulation. Playing the roles of delegates to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), students engaged in debate and negotiations over pressing issues impacting Asia, the Pacific region and the world.

Fort Couch Musicians Place First in Music Competition

For the third year in a row, Arjun Kairi, a Fort Couch seventh grader, placed first in the Crescendo International Music Competition held this past January at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Arjun, age 12, first began his flute studies at The Pittsburgh Music Academy at age three. He currently participates in seventh grade band at Fort Couch, under the direction of Jacob Schuster.

Fort Couch seventh grade student, Aanya Jha, age 12, performed in the Crescendo International Music Competition at Carnegie Hall in February. This marks her second first place honor in the competition. Aanya began playing the guitar at age seven and currently participates in orchestra at Fort Couch under the direction of Karen Chisholm.

Crescendo International Music Competition is a youth music competition held annually since 2007. Its mission is to inspire individuals to pursue their passion for music through involvement in competitions, master classes and other educational programs. The Crescendo International Music Competition is open to students ages 4–24. Competition is open to junior, intermediate and advanced levels for all instrumentalists, vocalists, duets and chamber orchestra.

Japanese Contest

This past March, USCHS world language students earned top finishes in three of the six categories of the annual High School Japanese Speech Contest. In the Poster division, Hudson Healy placed first, Kaia Petrick took second and Ojasi Madhekar placed third. Chihiro Brentzel took top honors in Beginner Level Speech, followed by Maxen Thomas in second place. In Intermediate Level Speech, Dhruv Dileep was first, with Evie Ellenberger taking second place. Students competed in one of five Japanese speech levels, including Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Advanced Plus and Heritage. New and non-language students competed in the poster contest. In total, 11 students competed in the contest. Students were led by Chie Ramsey, USCHS world language teacher.

Aanya Jha

Arjun Kairi

A Look Back at USCHS

Miriam Guttensohn, TODAY Intern

It is certainly fair to say that high school has changed a lot since the first issue of USC TODAY was published 30 years ago in 1994. Being a high school student in those fresh and funky mid 90s meant navigating a world before smartphones and social media, where students engaged in face-to-face interactions and stayed connected through landline phones or passing notes in class. In the 1990s and even early 2000s, computers and technology like smart whiteboards only existed in certain classrooms. Of the many changes that have rolled in since the 90s, some are more obvious than others. The teaching methods today allow students to play a more active role in their learning. Inquiry and project-based learning help students remain engaged in their lesson plans and explore new material with curiosity and problem-solving.

In 1994, high schoolers enjoyed diverse fashion and music trends. Fashion was heavily influenced by popular TV shows like “Friends” and “Beverly Hills 90210,” with preppy, grunge and hiphop styles dominating the school hallways. Iconic, award-winning films, including “Forrest Gump,” “Pulp Fiction” and “The Lion King” were also released during this year. The music of this era was dominated by the rise of hip-hop, alternative rock and pop sensations like TLC, Nirvana and Mariah Carey, and students often shared mixtapes filled with their favorite songs.

Academically, students relied on encyclopedias and library trips for research. Writing research papers meant spending hours at the computer lab with floppy disks to save documents. Group projects were usually coordinated through phone calls and in-person meetings. Upper St. Clair High School had 1241 enrolled students in 1994 who faced many academic challenges that still exist today, like choosing colleges, improving SAT scores and getting As on chemis-

try tests. As memorialized by Kristin Costanzo in the Clairvoyant, the USCHS yearbook of 1994, “The work never let up. It was challenging to get good grades, while also trying to enjoy the year.” This statement feels equally true for students in 2024.

Similar to today, extracurricular activities played a significant role in high school life in the mid-90s. Sports, drama clubs and school dances were popular activities for working together toward common goals and spending time with friends. In sports, students at the high school were focused on winning the section, achieving their personal bests and excelling on the field. Longtime followers of the USCHS swimming program will remember freestyler Merel Hommen, a WPIAL and PIAA champion who graduated from USCHS in 1994. She retired from the program with three longstanding school records.

Starting in the fall of 1993, Upper St. Clair Public Access Television produced a series of campus news videos in collaboration with the high school, featuring the homecoming events of 1994, including an immense bonfire, homecoming parade, football game against Uniontown, the announcement of the homecoming court and scenes from the homecoming dance with its theme “A Night in Paris.”

Looking back on high school in 1994, it is interesting to see how some things have evolved, while others remain unaltered. Thirty years into the future, it will be exciting to remember life in 2024. n

Sweet Hearts

Assisted living residents at Friendship Village of South Hills enjoyed Valentine’s Day in a heartwarming way: they opened Valentine’s Day cards specially crafted by the children from Baker Elementary and Boyce Middle School.

The principal of Baker, Dr. Patrick McClintockComeaux, working in conjunction with Kara Krebs, Katie March and the club committee members of “Baker Gives Back,” provide Valentine’s cards to Friendship Village residents annually. Amy Homer and the fifth grade “Comet Team” from Boyce also contribute cards on an annual basis.

In celebration of the club’s efforts and the spirit of Valentine’s Day, Friendship Village of South Hills hosted a Sweetheart Luncheon for residents. During this event, residents experienced the joy of opening the heartfelt cards while also enjoying a delicious lunch prepared by the community’s skilled chefs.

The organizers of the intergenerational program, Jessica Bickar, Director of Assisted Living and Memory Care, along with Casandra Hrvatin, Community Outreach Coordinator, have shared, “The card sharing and opening from the students from Upper St. Clair is one of our favorite days during the year. Our residents feel the love and support from our community each year, which brings smiles to all of us.” n

Proper Grading Around Your House

Why should the soil around your house be sloped away from your house? So that water runs away from your foundation!

When concrete, lawn areas or mulch beds are too flat or are sloped toward the home, water will run toward the foundation and/or form puddles around the house. The water can penetrate the foundation and cause water damage and/or mold growth. Water can quickly and permanently damage a finished basement or sensitive items stored in a basement.

Wet soil under the foundation can also cause home settlement and foundation cracks. This can lead to doors and windows that will not open and drywall cracking on the inside of the house.

These basic drainage principles also apply to downspout drain pipes. They should all be directed far away from the home and not drain near the foundation. All downspouts should be properly connected to a drain pipe with consistent slope away from the home. They should end (or daylight) above ground in an area that will not allow them to freeze and close in the wintertime. n

Contact Mike Isbir of Isbir Construction & Landscape Corp. at 412-751-4359 for more information about drain pipes, grading or drainage. His firm specializes in drainage and waterproofing. See ad on page 66.

Mike Isbir

FROM OUR FARM TO YOUR YARD TRANSFORM YOUR BACKYARD

Local Deliveries: Same day deliveries available on all bulk items. Soil, mulch, stone, trees & shrubs and block.

Wall Block: Transform your outdoor living space effortlessly with our premium Versa-Lok pavers, durable wall blocks, and convenient firepit kits.

Trees and Shrubs: Create shade, privacy, and structure with our selection of trees and shrubs, perfectly suited for your landscape.

Landscape Design: Enhance your home with our expert landscape design services, tailored to reflect your unique style.

Your New Garden Center — Phelps Nursery, USC

Emily Humes, Phelps Nursery

Phelps Nursery is a family-owned-and operated nursery, garden center and landscaping business serving the tri-state area. We are excited to be a part of the USC community with our newest location, Phelps Nursery USC, formally Jim Jenkins Garden Center.

Phelps Nursery has become one of the area’s largest suppliers of outdoor trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials and hardscape products. We are proud to say that our growing facility, Phelps Ohio Nursery, located in Madison, Ohio, supplies our garden centers with a wide variety of the highest quality plant material.

Catering to all your gardening needs, whether you are a novice gardener or experienced, Phelps Nursery has an exciting array of supplies. From bulk goods, organic soil and grass seed to gardening tools and décor, pick from a wide selection of fountains, pottery and statuary to add extra charm to your garden. You won’t want to miss our large tropical selection!

Phelps Nursery is delighted to unveil a farmers’ market. Our commitment to supporting local farmers aligns seamlessly with the values of the community. We look forward to becoming a hub for fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables and other farm-to-table delights.

Your one-stop destination for all things green, Phelps Nursery offers a convenient delivery service to bring our quality plants and bulk products directly to your doorstep. Whether you’re looking to beautify your space or cultivate a thriving garden, Phelps Nursery is here to make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Our experienced team of professionals is dedicated to turning your outdoor dreams into reality through our landscape design and installation services. Trusting in the experience and knowledge of our experts and seeing the quality of work performed provides our customers with the confidence to perform the work themselves, or allow us to assist in the planting process.

Whether you seek a serene garden retreat or vibrant outdoor entertaining space, Phelps Nursery is poised to create landscapes that reflect your unique style and preferences, excelling both visually and functionally. The addition of landscape lighting, paver patios and sidewalks, retaining walls or water features gives customers a variety of options. Our experts will walk you through each step and tailor the design to your individual needs and desires, taking special care to create a space that integrates the natural setting with the surrounding architecture. Our goal is to design an environment to be enjoyed for years to come.

As Phelps Nursery formally introduces itself to Upper St. Clair, our excitement is matched only by our commitment to delivering quality material and excellent service. Our 600-acre growing facility is a testament to the scale of our dedication, and we invite the community to join us on this journey of growth and shared appreciation for the outdoors. Phelps Nursery is not just a destination; it’s a celebration of nature and community, and we are proud to be in the neighborhood!

See ad on this page.

Formerly Know As Jim Jenkins

USCTDP 40th Anniversary

The Upper St. Clair Tennis Development Program (USCTDP) celebrated its 40th anniversary this past year, marking four decades of inspiring tennis players — from children to professionals. The USCTDP’s staff members bring hundreds of years of combined knowledge and experience to the court, and the organization offers programs for kids as young as four years old, competitive players enhancing their skills and adults looking to stay active.

The USCTDP was founded in 1983 by a handful of people who wanted to create a tennis development program that would instill self-esteem, confidence, a strong work ethic, mental toughness and sportsmanship into tennis players. After four decades, the USCTDP now looks forward to the next 40 years of inspiring tennis players and serving the community. n

Your Insider Guide to Navigating a Home Renovation

Geoff and Christine McQueen

Have you ever driven past a new house under construction and thought how remarkable it is that a collection of two-by-fours, bricks and pipes can be put together into a beautiful home where someone will live?

Building a new home is a big undertaking. But here’s something that might surprise you: in some ways, it’s actually much simpler than a renovation.

A new build is a wonderfully straightforward thing. Everything has been cut exactly to size at the same time. Each piece is fresh and level and new. There’s a lot of work to be done, but very few surprises.

Each renovation, though, is a unique animal. As you can imagine, we often wish we had X-ray vision. Sadly, we don’t. We can’t see the plumbing and wiring inside the walls of your home. We can’t know exactly how much your home has settled in the years (or decades, or in some cases, the century) since it was built.

So, adding a perfectly square and level addition onto it can be a complicated job.

We also weren’t there when your house was built, so we can’t know all the choices the original builder made. And we weren’t present over the years when small upgrades and cosmetic renovations were done by professionals or by a previous owner.

Tons of puzzles can arise during a renovation that no one could anticipate. And while popular renovation shows on HGTV and Magnolia Network have gotten a lot of homeowners excited about renovating, those shows have also skewed people’s sense of how labor-intensive a real renovation can be.

When months of work get edited down into 30-minute episodes with all the tedious, frustrating moments cut out, it’s easy to assume renovations are relatively predictable and even the biggest speed bumps can easily be navigated.

Sometimes even savvy homeowners are surprised to realize just how much those reality TV shows differ from actual reality.

But here’s the good news: for us and our team, that’s actually the fun part. We absolutely love to tackle challenges and solve the unique puzzles that your house might present. If a roadblock appears, we’re determined to find a way around it.

So, what do you need to know as a homeowner embarking on a renovation?

• As the planning process begins, know that your house may pose unique challenges, and it’s not possible for a builder to forecast everything that might arise. (It’s wise to be skeptical if someone tells you they know for sure.)

• Rely on a builder with decades of experience, so that they have the knowledge and expertise to work through your particular renovation and solve any challenges that may arise. You’re not just hiring a builder for what they can do; you’re hiring them for their years of mastery.

• From HVAC and electrical to plumbing and carpentry and every specialty in between, make sure your builder works with a great team of subcontractors. We’re glad to have a whole village we can call on, because subcontractors are like specialists diagnosing and addressing the unique needs of your house.

• Some companies simply say “no” to complicated requests, because it’s easier than tackling a challenge. Look for a team with a can-do attitude who will dream up tailor-made solutions to your requests. At McQueen Building Company, we’ve added an entire division to build custom cabinetry, so that we can design literally anything our clients need. There’s always a way to say “yes,” if your contractor is willing to be creative. In the end, you hire a really good contractor not to ensure you’ll never have a problem, but to ensure they’ll know exactly what to do if puzzles have to be solved. If they’re experienced and skillful, they can conduct the orchestra of subcontractors who will bring your unique renovation to life and they will find solutions to any challenge with your budget in mind. n

To learn more, visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com or visit their social channels to view their latest projects. See their ad on the previous page.

Photography: Erin Kelly

The Great Duck Race 2024

CFUSC Proudly Introduces

Artie

The “Official Mascot” for The Great Duck Race

Racing Ducks may be adopted at the Community Foundation Booth on Community Day.

The ducks are in training with Coach Artie and are already lining up for the race at 3 p.m. on Community Day Saturday, May 18.

Adopt a Duck

1 for $5

6 for $25 15 for $50

Adoptions will begin on April 1. The list of great prizes can be found at cfusc.org.

Recent CFUSC Grants Make a Difference in Our Community

Story Walk at C&RC

Digital Art Monitor at the High School

Focus on Health and Safety: Walkers, Runners and Drivers, Oh My!

During the pandemic, pedestrians really picked up the pace with healthy exercise and activity. Since most people had no place to go, there was less car traffic. Now that drivers are back on the road, it seems that they are in such a hurry! It is incumbent on every pedestrian to be aware of their surroundings and proactively avoid dangers. Drivers should exercise good judgement about posted speed limits and stop signs, realizing that they have been erected for everyone’s safety.

With all of the visual stimuli drivers have to deal with, distracted driving can put pedestrians at extreme risk. Drivers need to be cognizant of warnings signs, construction zones, school zones, incident management, railroad crossings, one-way streets, no U-turn signs, street identifiers, route markers, lane signs for exits and the list goes on. Official signage has been developed and is consistent nationally. There is a Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) which can be viewed online at mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.

Pedestrians also need to use common sense and think about safety at all times. It is strongly recommended that if there is a sidewalk, you should use it. However, if there is none, you must always walk or run on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic. It is suggested that you make eye contact with drivers and never assume that they will see you. day or night, wear a reflective vest or belt and carry a flashlight in the dark, particularly if there are no street lights. Always use crosswalks where they are painted on the road and understand that while drivers must yield to pedestrians, whether or not there are crosswalks, a person is no match for a three-ton vehicle. In combination with eyesight, hearing is of the utmost importance when walking or running in any area where cars may be travelling, so leave the earbuds and headsets at home, and keep the cellphone for emergency purposes only, refraining from conversations and texting while exercising outdoors.

Stranger danger is also a safety consideration. Being alert and aware at all times makes you less vulnerable. If anyone stops their car to ask for directions, maintain a wide distance from the car. Carry a cell phone so you can call for help or report any unusual activities or occurences. Make sure you carry identification. It is best to exercise in familiar areas and when you approach your own home, have your door key ready. If you think you are being followed, change direction and move toward people. It is also important to inform a family member or friend where and when you are going out and when you plan to return. Avoid secluded areas and vary your time and routine to prevent the setting of a pattern that may be observed by strangers. It is also a wise practice to be observant, spot the location of alternative safe places when you do not know the area and make a mental note of the comings and goings of others when you are walking or running in an unfamiliar place.

Finally, set a good example for the youth of our community by driving the speed limit, stopping at stop signs and refraining from the use of any item that takes your attention away from safe driving. Walkers and runners, be proactive about your safety. Everyone be alert out there!

OFFICIAL CFUSC PANTHER BLANKET

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair (CFUSC) has been investing in residents and their ideas for three decades. The Trustees are volunteers who care about keeping our community strong. They give their time to enrich our community by supporting activities and events, establishing partnerships and awarding grants in defined focus areas of Arts, Health and STEM. To defray the operating expenses, the CFUSC sells these amazing spirit blankets. These double-ply, soft, plushy blankets are washable and show the Panther mascot and the CFUSC logo. They can be ordered at cfusc.org/shop and will be hand-delivered to your home within two days by a CFUSC Trustee.

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-at-home project.

• Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary.

• Email information to usctoday@usctoday.org, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

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

Emotional Intelligence

Mary Birks, Outreach Teen & Family Services Executive Director

In our ever-changing, fast-paced, technology-based society, we face a new set of challenges with communication and how we connect to our world. Over the last decade, a shift has taken place in how we relate to and socialize with one another.

From the advent of cell phones, computers and social media, there are so many portals to connect with our friends and family; but are we using them to communicate effectively? Teenagers most naturally come to mind when discussing this topic, but our younger kids are affected by communication skills, as well. How do we accomplish effective communication as parents, educators, counselors and mentors?

One way is to demonstrate positive behaviors, by accessing our emotional intelligence, or EQ (emotional quotient). EQ skills help us remove barriers to success by providing a “road map” with tangible skills that we can turn to when making difficult decisions.

There are five facets of emotional intelligence:

1. Self-awareness gives us a great advantage because it allows us to step back and change our ways to adapt to new surroundings. We can become more self-aware by practicing mindfulness, which paces our thoughts, feelings and actions through the lens of forgiveness, non-judgment, non-striving, compassion and acceptance.

2. Self-regulation means not being swept away by our feelings and reacting out of anger, fear or frustration. It’s being aware of our emotional state and asking ourselves, “Is this emotion serving me?” It’s recognizing how we feel and being able to let it go.

3. Motivation is what we think of when working towards a long-term goal but, believe it or not, motivation is not always sustainable over time. We can remain motivated by thinking of how achieving a certain goal will change our life. Ask yourself, “What will life feel like and look like

when I achieve this goal?” This can add necessary drive to get to the finish line.

4. Empathy is more than being friendly or kind to others. Empathy also gives us an opportunity to show up as our best selves by imagining what it might be like to see the world through the eyes of someone else, which is especially helpful when we don’t agree with a person. Practicing empathy ensures you will learn from an experience, no matter what happens in the end.

5. Social skills are most often thought of as a means to make friends and become popular, but there’s so much more to them than that. They help individuals learn the art of good eye contact, to understand facial expressions and to use the appropriate tone of voice to match your intention. They’re about building rapport and influencing people, not with what you have or own, but through your genuine compassion and concern.

Practicing the skills of emotional intelligence allows life to unfold in a much richer way by making the most of our opportunities for growth and change! n

Outreach is celebrating 50 years of providing mental health counseling and wellness programs, positively impacting children, teens and families. If anyone in your family is experiencing a decline in their mental health, Outreach can help. Outreach offers a variety of services for children and young adults ages 5–21, along with their parents and families, including individual, group, family and parenting sessions. 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.

TODAY traveled northeast this spring to get a photo of Uncle Sam’s grave in Troy, N.Y.

Heading south to Florida, TODAY was spotted at a Pittsburgh Pirates spring training game at LECOM Field.

Format Focus — a History Lesson

Did you know that the original Polaroid camera, called the Land camera after inventor Edwin Land, was first commercially available in 1948? It produced a black and white photograph as well as a negative that could be used to make additional copies.

The later versions of Polaroid cameras, popular from the 1970s onward, produced a single-color image like the one pictured here. Preserving these photographs is a priority because they are the only copies. Adding to preservation concerns for these color Polaroids is the fact that these instant color prints present stability issues. One way to make sure these images survive for future generations is to digitize them and then carefully store the originals.

Past Historical Society of Upper St. Clair president Jean Brown took a series of Polaroid photographs of headstones and monuments in Melrose and Bethel cemeteries. The collection is now part of the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair archives. These cemeteries, which are the final resting places of many notable Upper St. Clair residents, are a useful source of information when conducting genealogical research. Websites like FindAGrave.com can be helpful tools for finding similar photos and information from cemeteries around the world. n

Article courtesy of Carolyn Jones-Friedrich, historian, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.

Happy 50th Art-versary

In 1974, postcard stamps were eight cents, leisure suits were in style, Jell-O salads were the rage, as were popular American handcrafts including stenciling, painting on velvet and needlework. It was also the year that a group of local artists founded the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts (USCLA) and hosted the first-ever Sugarplum Shop in the lobby of the Upper St. Clair Township building.

Trends in arts and crafts have come and gone over the past 50 years, but the USCLA has endured, now calling its annual sale the Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace. Held over six days at the MAC on McLaughlin Run Road, you will have plenty of time to browse at your leisure, just not in a leisure suit!

While you won’t find any velvet paintings, this juried sale does feature a large gallery room showcasing original paintings in various mediums and styles, as well as prints and photography. A second room hosts a boutique filled with local craftsmanship, both trendy and traditional, including glass art, pottery, jewelry, woodcraft, fiber art, papercraft and much more.

In addition to providing a showcase opportunity for local artisans, the USCLA awards college scholarships for Upper St. Clair residents who are graduating from high school and are majoring in art-related field. n

Call for Artists:

The USCLA is always scouting for new talent in the township. Interested residents should send an email inquiry to USCLA41@gmail.com or stop by the USCLA booth on Community Day for membership information and applications for participation in this year’s Sugarplum. The USCLA will also offer free bags children can use to collect parade candy.

Save the Dates!

This year’s Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace sale is set for Thursday, Nov. 7 through Tuesday, Nov.12. First-time shoppers will be impressed with the quantity of unique, one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts and fine art. Repeat customers, who have made this local tradition a success for 50 years, should watch their mailbox for a postcard reminder with a 53-cent stamp!

A variety of Polaroid camera models, including a Polaroid Land Model 104

USCLA founders (l/r): Wence Dolegowski, Alice Murphy, Faith Dolegowski, Rebecca Hand, Lisa Subler (USCLA Archives)

Visions of Sugarplums (l/r): Christen Palumbo, Julie Agar, Joyce Phillips, Joan Newman (USCLA Archives)

Polaroid photograph taken in Melrose Cemetery

Happenings!

Flea Market

The Laboure Ladies Guild of St. Catherine Laboure Parish will hold its annual flea market, “Timeless Treasures,” 9 a.m.–5 p.m. on Friday, July 19, and 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, in the LeGras Parish Center (lower level), 320 McMurray Rd.

Sale items will include gently-used children’s clothing to size 6, toys, jewelry, decorative items, knick-knacks, kitchen items, holiday decorations, linens, tools, books, some furniture and a boutique offering better quality items. Due to fire restrictions, strollers are not permitted inside the center.

USC Kennywood Day

The annual Upper St. Clair School District Kennywood Day is Monday, June 13. Discounted tickets must be purchased online at kennywood.com. Use “USC” as the promo code. Tickets purchased online using the promo code are $35.99 each. Please note that a $4 processing fee per ticket (maximum $10), and a $1 amusement tax will be added to each ticket. There is no limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased.

Upper St. Clair Rotary Farmer’s Market

The USC Farmer’s Market, sponsored by the Rotary Club 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 the south parking lot of Westminster Church on Route 19 for some great finds and wonderful food selections. Vendors from 2023, as well as some new exciting options, await.

USCHS Class Reunion

Upper St. Clair’s Class of 1974 is marking its 50th anniversary with a reunion this Sept. 27–29. Tentative plans for the weekend include an Upper St. Clair football game on Friday, Sept. 27, followed by a meet and greet with fun, games and prizes at Primanti Brothers in Mt. Lebanon. On Saturday, Sept. 28, tours of USCHS and other activities are planned during the day, followed by an evening of dinner and dancing at St. Clair Country Club. The weekend concludes on Sunday, Sept. 29, with brunch at The Porch at Siena.

A block of rooms has been secured at the Crowne Plaza Suites, 164 Fort Couch Rd., for a special rate. To book online, use the link: Upper St. Clair Class of 74 Room Reservations. To book via phone, call 412-833-5300, dial 1 for reservations, and use U74 for the block code.

For more information, email uschs74reunion@gmail.com.

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.

Eggs-cellent Day

The sun was shining for the Township’s annual Egg Hunt, held this past March at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC).

More than 500 children registered for this popular event, which is sponsored by the Bethel St. Clair Evening Rotary Club, with the help of the USCHS and BPHS Interact clubs. Prior to the hunt itself, children enjoyed various activities, including face-painting, coloring and crafts, planting seeds and visiting with the Easter Bunny.

Thanks to the Recreation Department staff, the USC Public Works staff and the USC Police Department who made it possible for the egg hunt to run smoothly and safely. n

Tammy Singleton-English was elected to serve as chair of the South Hills Networking Committee for the Solo and Small Firm Practitioners section of the Allegheny County Bar Association.

She also serves as treasurer for the Estate Planning Council of Pittsburgh, which is a professional organization for attorneys, CPAs, financial planners and bankers/ trust officers who engage in estate planning, probate (estate administration) and tax matters for their clients.

Tammy Singleton-English is an estate planning attorney, CPA and the founder/owner of Singleton-English Law Offices, which is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh and focuses on tax, estate planning and estate administration (probate) matters.

In Memoriam

Two men with ties to the Upper St. Clair School District passed away this past January.

Robert Furman began his career teaching at Bentworth School District before spending the majority of his career in the Upper St. Clair School District as teacher, principal and deputy superintendent. While with the District, he became a pivotal leader in middle level education, a topic on which he became a national speaker and noted author. Bob would go on to design the Principal Certification Program at Duquesne University, where he served as director of educational administration.

This past January, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Pittsburgh inducted Frank Schiffman into the Renaissance Hall of Fame.

The award honored Schiffman’s 46-year career in marketing and communications in the commodity chemicals and water treatment products industries, including his current role as the business manager/director of marketing for Westlake Water Solutions.

The Renaissance Hall of Fame Award salutes a senior public relations professional who has made significant and lasting contributions to the advancement of public relations in the Pittsburgh region. The award is chosen by members of PRSA Pittsburgh.

Samuel Douglass served the District as its solicitor for 28 years. Sam’s law practice focused on corporate real estate and mineral law at the law firms of Rose Schmidt Hasley and DiSalle, and Rothman Gordon. In 1979, he envisioned the creation of an educational organization focusing on mineral law in the eastern half of the United States, and ultimately co-founded and served as the first president of that organization, the Energy and Mineral Law Foundation (formerly Eastern Mineral Law Foundation). n

Robert Furman Sam Douglass

Photos courtesy of Jim Bolas

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

Phyllis Kender, Registrar

Brookside Woman’s Club

412-606-9328

Bolasjim@gmail.com

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

412-221-0846

412-440-8464

www.cfusc.org

412-221-5717

412-835-5540

Julian Wolfe ...................................... president@montourtrail.org

Girl Scouts of USC

Betsy Wilson .........................................................

Historical Society of Upper St. Clair

Rachel Carlson

412-398-5582

robinson.betsy@gmail.com

412-835-2050

president@hsusc.org

League of Women Voters .......................................... lwvpgh.org

Lifespan

Kim Rollinson

Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com)

Laura Murtough

Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics “PEAQ”

Megan Whiteford

South Hills Chamber of Commerce

412-464-1300, x127

412-478-1736

uscootm@gmail.com

412-498-1608

info@peaqpgh.org

www.shchamber.org .............................................

South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM)

JCC Pittsburgh

South Hills Junior Orchestra

Janet Vukotich ......................................................

South Hills Kennel Club

Ray Harrington

Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce

Mandi Pryor, Executive Director

Trotwood Manor West Association

United Senior Citizens of USC

trotwoodmanorwest@gmail.com

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) ....................................

Boys Basketball (Winter)

Girls Basketball (Winter)

Rich West

Bret Stutzman

Mike McKenzie

Jay Sukernek

Mike Barnard

Amr El Nokali

Football Tackle & Flag (Fall/Spring).................... Bryan Mathews

Softball (Fall/Spring) Ryan Pope

Rec Soccer (Fall)

Travel Soccer (Fall/Spring)

Bill Friday

Steve Gibbs

Mike Ressler

Wrestling (Winter) .................................................... Adam Smith

USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org) uscbpaofficers@gmail.com

USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club

Sally Morrison

USC Boy Scouts of America

Mike Wherry (Troop 366)

Tom O’Brien (Troop 4 )

412-951-7543 sallydmorrison@gmail.com

412-953-5791

412-854-3153

USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org)

Jen Dalke ..............................................................

USC Democratic Committee

412-760-0801

Allyson Feldman,Chair uscdemcommittee@gmail.com

Andrew Zahalsky, Vice Chair

USC High School Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO)

Leria Miles ............................. PTSOpresident.uschs@gmail.com

USC Hockey Club president@uschockey.org

USC League for the Arts (USCLA)

412-306-8090

412-854-9120

412-278-1975

jccpgh.org

412-341-5160

412-999-0195

412-221-4100

southwestcommunitieschamber.org

mandi@southwestcommunitieschamber.org

Spencer Family YMCA

Nathan Prenzlow

412-833-5600

Vi Laux

USC Library

412-523-1855

412-835-5540

USC Newcomer’s Club (www.uscnewcomers.org) uscnewcomersexec@gmail.com

USC Parent Teacher Council (PTC)

Pamela Scureman, President USCPTCpresident@gmail.com

USC Republican Committee

Andrew Baldasare ...............................................

USC Robotics Club

Tracy Smith

USC Volunteer Firefighters

Greg Gerlach, President

Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair

Linda Altopiedi, Secretary

412-559-9228

tsmith@uscsd.k12.pa.us

412-835-0660, x100 president@uscvfd.org

412-260-5610

Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office at 412-851-2851, or email usctoday@usctoday.org if your club or organization’s information needs to be updated, added to or deleted from our list. Thank you. For an online version of this directory, visit twpusc.org/usctoday and click on USC TODAY Features from the home page.

SERVING UPPER ST. CLAIR

Churches and Synagogues

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—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 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

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 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

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—412-278-1975

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

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

Lynn

John

Sheryl

Bonnie

Monica Mahla Peters Township Office

Rachel Mazzie South Hills Office

Carol McCarthy South Hills Office

Dora Rudick South Hills Office