WINTER 2006 by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Terry Abbott

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Advanced Outpatient Care on the road to Village Square. One of the most technologically advanced outpatient centers in the region is right around the corner. St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center. It’s just down the road, next to Village Square. Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available through convenient scheduling. You’ll find state-of-the-art medical imaging services, including X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasound, bone densitometry and the latest in digital screening mammography. In fact, we offer a complete range of services from lab work, EKG and occupational medicine to physical therapy. All administered by St. Clair Hospital physicians, nurses and medical technologists, who deliver the same quality of care and expertise you've come to expect at our main campus. So put yourself on the road to exceptional outpatient healthcare. It’s right here, next to Village Square.

2000 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-942-7100 www.stclair.org/outpatient

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

IT’S TIME WE REDEFINED HONOR STUDENT. Today’s world demands a definition that encompasses more than academic success. It requires a “transcript” that demonstrates the ability to do the right thing as well as the smart thing. A high grade point average alone will not guarantee a successful career or a purposeful life. This is the very reason why California University of Pennsylvania has, for more than 150 years, dedicated itself to preparing students for both fulfilling careers and meaningful lives. We do more than pay lip service to our core values of integrity, civility and responsibility. We integrate them into the classroom, campus activities and everyday student life. These values are fostered by faculty who devote time and personal attention to help motivate, inspire and bring out the best in every man and woman who studies here. So our students graduate with more than academic kudos and a diploma to show for their efforts.They graduate with a different degree of honor. For livelihood. And for life. That is our mission and our difference. Building Character. Building Careers.

www.cup.edu A proud member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Winter 2006 • Volume 12 • Issue 4

Features and Around the Township 16 The Circle of Life

Tiger cubs are born at the Pittsburgh Zoo.

18 Surviving the Gray Days Erin Gibson Allen is challenged by Pittsburgh’s end-of-winter doldrums.

42 Dashing Through the Snow

Read about Gilfillan’s collection of vintage sleds.

Events and activities of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

The library’s Summer Reading program enjoys much participation.

Upper St. Clair High School’s Halls of Fame

68 Cultural Corner

A lineup of music and art celebrations for the holiday and beyond.

70 Confronting Childhood Obesity

Joseph Luxbacher suggests simple strategies to promote healthy living for our children.

Township 25 Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center

This project, through the efforts of many, is moving ahead.

26 We Have What You’ve Been Looking For!

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers many activities this winter season.

28 What Have We Done for You Lately?

The Township’s Public Works Department has had a very busy year.

32 Savvy Seniors

Never a dull moment with this group—check them out.

34 Winter Storm Emergencies

’Tis the season. Be prepared!

School District 46 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Interviews Dr. William Sulkowski

School District board president shares his thoughts.

49 Our New High School Principal

Dr. Mike Ghilani accepts a new position in the District.

52 Math Teacher Extraordinaire—Joanne Szymanski

A wonderful tribute to a wonderful teacher and person.

54 Elementary Curriculum News for 2006-07

Learn about enhancements to the core academic subjects at the elementary level.

58 Parenting 101

A new program is offered to parents of incoming high school freshmen.

Guides 40 Gift 44 Pinebridge Commons 74 Dining

Cover 14 This cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a demonstration of emergency board up and water extraction services that

G.S. Jones has provided to homes and businesses throughout Upper St. Clair and Western Pennsylvania over the past 21 years. G.S. Jones specializes in assisting property owners who have experienced property damage resulting from fire, water, wind, mold, and lightning. See feature story on pages 14 and 15. Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Publishers Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Steering Committee Dr. Terrence Kushner Assistant Superintendent of Schools Mark S. Mansfield Senior Assistant Township Manager Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Paul K. Fox, Managing Editor Cindy Kane, Township Associate Editor Terry Kish, School District Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Laurie Buker, Advertising Associate Kathy Christie, Advertising Associate Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Laura Blank (YWG), Dr. John Bornyas, Karen Brown, Knox Brown IV, Dr. Judy Bulazo, Nancy Chase, Joe DeMar, Wayne Herrod, Kathleen Himler, Melanie Kerber, Sigrid Kiernan, Joseph Luxbacher, Jace Palmer, John Rozzo, Avisha Shah (YWG), Maria Simon (YWG), Mary Lynn Spazok, and Timothy Wagner.

Happy holidays from the staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY! Left to right are Linda Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief; Terry Kish, School District Associate Editor; Cindy Kane, Township Associate Editor; Paul Fox, Managing Editor; Kathy Christie, Advertising Associate; Dr. Terrence Kushner, Steering Committee; Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager; Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate; Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate. Missing from photo are Mark Mansfield, Steering Committee; Laurie Buker, Advertising Associate. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township

and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. The 48th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

School Board Directors

Township Board of Commissioners

William M. Sulkowski, President Mark G. Trombetta, Vice President David E. Bluey Barbara L. Bolas Carol B. Coliane Glenn G. Groninger Daniel A. Iracki Jeffrey W. Joyce Angela B. Petersen

Ched Mertz, President, Ward 4 Bill Bates, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Kenneth L. Brown, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Frank E. Marsh, Ward 5 Karen M. McElhinny, At Large

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.

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for this community magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses

A special thank you to Cullyn Thomson for her help with this issue and please welcome Erin Gibson Allen to the staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2007 issue and will be published in March 2007. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241.

The 48th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2006. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited.

in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.

Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed to the left. Add $10 to cover international mailings.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 School District: 412-833-1600 Township: 412-831-9000 Printed by Pentagon Printing Corporation 18 West Steuben Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-922-0422 • Fax: 412-922-2922

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Deadline for articles and advertising for the Spring 2007 issue is January 2, 2007. Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 email: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 email: cdemarco@uscsd.k12.pa.us Visit our Website:

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Dr. James D. Lombardo

Douglas A. Watkins

Hello, and welcome to the 48th edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our winter 2006 issue. With each changing season, a new magazine is published, and with it exciting news about our School District and our Township. No matter the season, Upper St. Clair never slows down. As the last leaves drift down from the soon-to-be barren trees and mark the end of autumn, we don coats and boots to face the cold winter months ahead. Temperature aside, take the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities in Upper St. Clair—walking the interior trails at Boyce Mayview Park in the freshly fallen snow, sledding on the Township’s golf course, or building your neighborhood’s tallest snowman. There’s always hot chocolate to enjoy when you’re done! With all this activity, don’t forget to set aside time to relax and read what’s in this issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Plans for Boyce Mayview Park are taking shape (page 25), the Township’s Recreation and Leisure Services Department is offering exciting activities for our residents (pages 26 and 32), and the Public Works Department continues to enhance our community with its many projects (page 28). Our School District welcomed new administration and staff this past fall (pages 47 and 49), proudly held the Halls of Fame ceremony (page 48 and 49), and continues to advance its academic curriculum at all grade levels (see elementary curriculum article on page 54). We welcome the opportunity to say hello to you with each issue of the magazine—always having lots to report. But, sometimes when we say hello, we also have to say goodbye. The following are personal notes to accompany this Publishers’ Letter from Dr. Lombardo and Mr. Watkins. families of the Upper It has been an honor to serve the students and me superintendent St. Clair community. When the District appointed l district with schoo in 2003, I knew that I’d inherited an outstanding teachers, and great ls, schoo ing high-performing students, award-winn work to could I that d hope only I unity. comm an incredibly supportive st way, to mode some in maintain the District’s legacy of excellence and, . place erful wond contribute some additional value to this d in the very best I am grateful for the opportunity to have worke throughout the rest of ate replic to work will I that l mode a school district, my career. Thank you Upper St. Clair.

My staff and I wish Dr. Lombardo well in his new endeavor. It has been a great pleas ure working with someone of Dr. Lombardo’s professional caliber, both on this magazine and in benefiting the residents of the Upper St. Clair community. Doug Watkins

Jim Lombardo

We hope you find many occasions to join with family and friends this winter season, and to all of you, a Happy New Year! Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools

Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager T O D A Y

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Celebrating 12 Years of Publication

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair “Creating a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, now in its 13th year

of service and dedication to Upper St. Clair residents, is thrilled with its community involvement. This past June at the USCHS Theatre, the foundation hosted a Pittsburgh Symphony POPS concert with conductor Marvin Hamlisch. Prior to the concert, many USC residents attended a fundraising pre-concert dinner to benefit the Pittsburgh Symphony. With the new year just around the corner, the foundation and the Pittsburgh Symphony have announced a partnership that will bring a three-concert Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair 2006 executive board are, left to right, seated: Richard Patton, treasurer; Roy Johnson, chairperson; Linda Serene, executive director; Peggy Snavely, secretary; series program to our Township in 2007. standing: Jim Bennett; Diane Vater; Bill Andrews; Angela Petersen; David Rice; Joanne Prorok; Stay tuned for further information. George Pitcairn; Becky Stern; Sandie Thomas; Celeste Acinapura, board vice chairperson; Janet Mosesso; The foundation, together with the Deepa Godbole; Shellie Yeung; missing from photo: Dina Fulmer; Ed Kelly; Gary Kissinger Township of Upper St. Clair, held a bocce clinic and tournament at Baker Park’s new bocce courts. Many to partner with many of our community’s groups. Some of the people came out to grants awarded by the foundation in 2006 include: Fort Couch try their hands at this Middle School Odyssey of the Mind grant; Upper St. Clair High family-friendly game. School Odyssey of the Mind grant; USCHS visit from Town Hall The foundation is South speaker, Sam Abell; USCHS robotics club grant; USCHS also excited to be in- musical program sponsor; USCHS costume department sewing volved with two very machine; goal for USCHS lacrosse team; team jerseys for USCHS active clubs in our hockey club; “Becoming community—the fly a Competitive College fishing club and the Applicant” seminar; trail bike club. prizes for first, second, The Community and third place float Enjoying the POPS pre-concert dinner are, left to right, Peggy Snavely, Michelle Foundation of Upper winners at Community and Andy Aloe, and Harry and Linda Serene. St. Clair continues Day; and shuttle service for the Town Hall South lecture series. Cookbooks Still Available For more informaAvailable for a short time, with only 200 copies left, is the tion on these and other Community Foundation’s Flavours—an award-winning cookCommunity Foundation book containing 600 recipes by residents and local restaurants activities and events, To benefit the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Community and chefs. This beautifully designed book features artwork of Upper St. Clair hosted a pre-concert contact the Community Foundation dinner event on the evening of the Pittsburgh of local artists Elizabeth Hayes Foundation office at Symphony POPS summer performance at the and Ellen Leimkuehler. 412-831-1107, email USCHS Theatre. Hosts Gary and Celeste Acinapura Flavours will not be reprintwelcomed Marvin Hamlisch into their home. cfusc@adelphia.net or ed and is now being offered look for the Community Foundation’s newsletter, Foundation for $15 (tax included), plus $4 News, delivered to all USC households each fall and spring. n shipping/handling fee. Orders, with accompanying check made payable to Community Community Foundation Foundation of USC, should be Contact Information mailed to:

Phone: 412-831-1107 Fax: 412-257-4160 Website: www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc Email: cfusc@adelphia.net 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Deer Patrol Nancy Chace

“By reserving early, I get to design my new home the way I want it.”

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ith places that have waiting lists, you have to take whatever residence comes up. Since Providence Point is new, you get to choose your floor plan and location, plus pick your cabinetry, tile, countertops and carpeting. It's just like building a new home.”

We all know what it’s like to come

home after a week’s vacation away. We anticipate a long, wild lawn, and flowers and shrubbery eaten by wildlife… but a fawn on our back patio? Was it sick? When we got close enough to photograph and even to pet, it remained totally still except for its shallow breathing. We hid from its sight and peered at it through a window, yet it only blinked its eyes and wiggled its moist black nose. Alarmed, we called County Animal Control. They said the doe would be back to get her young, and we should just wait. Throughout the early evening we continued to watch the little fawn do nothing but twitch its nose. Around 7:30 that evening a neighbor’s dog came over to the fawn, sniffed it and left, while the fawn remained as rigid as a concrete lawn ornament. An hour later, we looked out to see the fawn still there. We remained determined to see what would happen. Shortly after 9 p.m. as dusk set in, we looked out at the patio. The fawn was gone! We learned that the doe leaves her fawn during the day, forages, then returns at night to retrieve her young. The fawn will stay curled up in the spot where its mother has nudged it to remain, no matter how closely danger approaches. If the doe has twins, which is usually the case after her second pregnancy, she leaves them in separate locations. Early the next morning, we saw the crippled doe (her right front leg bent at a 45 degree angle) that has been roaming through our yard for the past several years, hobble along the edge of our pine trees. Two small fawns, with white-spotted bodies and spindly legs, lilted along behind her. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Traveling Back to the Future Melanie (Niewoehner) Kerber Life was simple in Upper St. Clair 40

years ago. I moved here with my parents, a stay-at-home mom and a government engineer, and my three brothers: Dick, Kevin, and Lonny Niewoehner, nine months prior to the assassination of President Kennedy. Today’s adolescent has more technology in one iPod than we had in our entire home, but we knew nothing less than an idyllic childhood. Life centered on school and church. Current school board members Jeff Joyce and Angela (Bozzo) Petersen were everyone’s all American youth. When Jeff carried a touchdown across a goal line, every adolescent girl dreamed the six points were scored in her honor. Angela was (and continues to be) the epitome of perfection and grace: athletic, smart, beautiful, and good-natured. It was easy to blend in and find my niche. Being a majorette was a driving force for me in high school. We were 13 strong, an elite force that twirled fire, light bulbs, flags, and batons in freezing and boiling temperatures while in brief costumes. Ten years ago I attended a football game at my graduate school alma mater and the majorettes wore fleece warm up suits! I am of the generation that wore sequin leotards, let our long hair fly amidst swirling gasoline and heavy winds while using miniature fires on each end of our batons to warm up. I was fortunate to have attended one of the nation’s first middle schools and to be selected for foreign language in grade six. Little did I know in 1963, as I stood and conjugated verbs, I would emerge a quarter century later as the wife of a career diplomat living in Central Africa speaking French to our dinner guests, household help, employers, and local merchants. I ventured off to college to pursue a career as a teacher. After finishing college and graduate school, I moved to the Washington area in the late 80s as the head of a therapeutic day school. The work was rewarding, the population affluent, and the hours demanding. I fell in love with a career diplomat employed by the Department of State. Each time he invited me to attend an embassy function, I summoned my social studies department chair to educate me on the location and politics of that particular area. On one memorable night, I showed up in a cheesy looking cocktail 12

dress, speared a grape leaf with a plastic fork, and wounded the Ambassador of Jordan. Every woman surrounding me reeked of Chanel suits, Gucci shoes, and loads of finesse. I came to be realized as “the darling of public diplomacy,” not on my style, but on my ability to relate to all minorities, realize my faux pas, and never take myself too seriously. Every career diplomat longs for Paris; we were no different but got more than we bargained for when we fell under the Department of State “hardship clause” and were shipped six hours south to the Central African Republic. The autumn of 1991 saw me completing the ultimate trifecta—finishing my dissertation defense, giving birth to a ten-pound baby, and moving to Africa. My husband’s tour had already begun and he was uneasy about me living in Washington alone. I temporarily moved back to Pittsburgh where I became known as the “oldest living mother giving birth naturally” at Magee Women’s Hospital. Within the next two weeks, I defended my dissertation and moved to Africa. Not easy for me, I was fraught with fear and anxiety. So many diseases—AIDS, meningitis, encephalitis, malaria, amoebic dysentery, and many more. My husband was supervising a multi-million dollar foreign aid program and I was begging doctors and epidemiologists from the Center for Disease Control to come for dinner and examine our baby. They were so accustomed to seeing infants ravaged by disease and malnutrition that they were amazed to see such a thriving baby. With no American commissary to shop in, we were one of the families who ordered a yearly consumables shipment. Ever try

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

to calculate how much ketchup you will consume annually? We went on to serve three years in Jamaica. It was still a hardship post with minimal water, electricity, and infrastructure, but I became active in the American Women’s group and raised millions of dollars for charity. I appeared on local radio and television, speaking on behalf of special education. Being the wife of a career diplomat requires some ingenuity and creativity. One definitely has to think outside the box and be willing to accept alternate activities and opportunities. Most foreign countries have no bilateral work agreement so there is no guarantee that one can be employed. Our son, Brandon, moved from speaking infant French to attending preschool and making sand castles with Bob Marley’s many grandchildren. Following a six-year stay in Washington where I was the head of a school for kids with learning problems, we took a final assignment in Brussels, the capital of Europe. Landing a Western European assignment is the crown jewel of the Foreign Service and we had a great time touring. My husband, Frank, did some interesting work negotiating with member states of the European Union. Our son had fabulous travel opportunities with sports and activities through the International School of Brussels, including trips to China with the honor band and a week in Cairo for swimming finals. Retirement from the Foreign Service and coming home to Upper St. Clair was a tough decision to make, but one that holds much promise. Our son will continue to receive a great education and I am enjoying the challenge of running an urban high school. Frank misses the cutting edge excitement of diplomacy and is beginning to test the waters for employment. After 26 years of meeting VIPs, briefing the foreign press, discussing policy with presidents, note taking for Cabinet members, and speaking with hundreds of senators and members of Congress, it’s a big change for him to be overseeing our move and waiting on repairmen. In each place we’ve lived, there are adjustments to be made, but Pittsburgh and Upper St. Clair continue to be very good to us. It is good to be home. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Disaster is No Stranger

to These South Hills Residents What does G.S. Jones do?

The property restoration industry has changed drastically over the last 21 years, but the basic underlying concept remains—“to restore the home or business as fast as possible with quality workmanship, and to charge a fair price to the owner and insurance company,” states Scott Jones, vice president of construction. “Many of our past and present clients are institutional clients such as UPMC, The University of Pittsburgh, The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, and The Carnegie Library, to name a few. However, a significant portion of our business also includes the residential and commercial marketplace.” When hit with water or fire damage, homeowners will usually call their insurance agent or company, where they are then directed to various restoration contractors. Dan Grealish of Henderson Brothers Insurance Agency states, “Our agency is all Left to right: Scott, George, and Dan Jones about personal relationships and providing premier service. I highly recommend my clients call G.S. Jones when they sustain Who is G.S. Jones? G.S. Jones specializes in fire and water damage a property catastrophe.” property restoration. Their primary goal is to restore a propThe property owners should always remember that they have erty from a catastrophic event such as fire, water, mold, wind, the final say as to whom they want to hire for disaster restorasmoke, vehicle collision, tear gas, or just about any thing that tion. After a disaster, the most pressing need that any property can damage a home or business. owner experiences is the need to return to normalcy as quickly The principal owners of G.S. Jones are George Jones and his as possible. Whether it’s a family with school-age children who two sons, Dan and Scott. George started in the business of property have been temporarily uprooted from their home and their school restoration while employed by a remodeling company in the late district, or a business that loses money every day that they’re 60s as a way to supplement his income when that business experi- down, speed to recover is the number one priority. Many Upper enced its slow winter season. In October 1985, George, Scott, and St. Clair residents may already be familiar with G.S. Jones, as this Dan began G.S. Jones, providing full service fire and water damage company has assisted more than one hundred township residents restoration. The company has thrived over the years because of with restorative problems over the last five years. its reputation for integrity and quality craftsmanship. Recently, a fire broke George, a resident of neighboring Scott Township, attended out at Burgunder Dodge the University of Pittsburgh after serving in the U.S. Navy and in Bridgeville. The entire before starting his career as an apprentice carpenter. George and service bay was blackhis wife of 57 years, Louise, have five children, 13 grandchildren, ened and the fire tore a and two great grandchildren. hole through the roof. George’s son, Dan, resides in Upper St. Clair with his wife, The fire occurred on the Jan. They have two children, Erin and Beth. Erin, who recently Friday before Memomarried, is a graduate of Case Western University and received rial Day weekend. G.S. her masters degree in education from John Carroll. Beth currently Jones began working on G.S. Jones restored Burgunder Dodge’s Bridgeville building from fire damage. attends Ohio University. Friday morning, conDan, a Penn State graduate, obtained a degree in business tinuing around the clock and through the entire weekend. All of economics and has earned many professional qualifications, the diagnostic equipment was cleaned and recalibrated, the large including his Certified Restorers (CR) designation. This designa- service garage was pressure washed, the mechanics’ personal tion is considered the highest designation achievable through the tools were cleaned, and the damaged electrical lighting and wirAssociation of Specialists in Cleaning and Restoration (ASCR). ing components were replaced. By Tuesday morning all vehicle Brother Scott and his wife, Linda, who have three daughters, repair stations were operable and servicing clients’ automobiles. “I Samantha, Molly, and Allison, also live in Upper St. Clair. The couldn’t believe the amount of work G.S. Jones accomplished over girls attend schools in Upper St. Clair and are enrolled in elev- the weekend. I don’t think we lost a single customer as a result of enth, ninth, and seventh grade, respectively. Scott attended the the fire, and it was even at the end of the month when inspections University of Pittsburgh where he earned his BS in mechanical are due,” said Greg Burgunder, president of Burgunder Dodge. engineering technology. He is also a certified CR and has training Another challenging project was The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, in hazardous waste operations and emergency response. Allegheny Regional. This past April, a lightning bolt struck the 14

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Cranes arrive at The Carnegie Library to remove large stones and secure the building from further damage.

165-foot granite stone clock tower causing a ten-ton decorative cap to break apart and crash onto the library below causing gaping holes in the steel framed roof. A three-ton piece of granite landed in the third floor mechanical room, which knocked out the entire HVAC system and caused flooding to the lower floors. Another piece of granite embedded itself into the concrete flooring of a second-floor lecture room and knocked plaster out of the first-floor ceiling. G.S. Jones was contacted and asked to stabilize the structure from further damage, which included removal of the large granite stone within the building, flood cleanup from the ruptured water lines, and to temporarily cover the gaping holes in the roof. Two cranes arrived on site the

A three-ton piece of granite is hoisted out of The Carnegie Library’s mechanical room.

following day (Sunday) and work began to remove the large stones. Care was taken not to damage the stones so they could be reused on this historical landmark building (circa 1896). A temporary roof system was designed and installed. It had to be lightweight so as not to put stress on the damaged steel roof support system, yet strong enough to withstand heavy winds in case of a storm. To meet the necessary criteria, G.S. Jones carpenters designed and fabricated geometric plywood shaped panels on the ground to correspond to the intricate hip and valley roof system. The framed shapes were covered with a self-adhering waterproof membrane that was lifted onto the roof by cranes and fit tightly together to form a temporary roofing system. All of the work was completed within hours of an impending rainstorm. “G.S. Jones lived up to its strong reputation. They worked well with our facilities team during a very difficult time. The company’s fast response saved us thousands of dollars and kept our collection safe from the elements,” said Paul Svirbel, director of facilities management at The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. There are two big forces at work, external and internal. We have very little control over external forces such as tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, disasters, illness and pain. What really matters is the internal force. How do I respond to those disasters? Over that I have complete control.

—Leo Buscaglia, American Author

Where does G.S. Jones travel? G.S. Jones provides consulting services to insurance companies and their clients. The consulting division provides repair estimates to insurance adjusters, helping to settle claims. “The adjuster should provide the insured with the most reliable and accurate property settlement entitled under the policy. This can include an assessment of various building damages related to a particular peril, as well as any code upgrade required by local jurisdiction an insured might be entitled to,” states Dan Jones, vice president of G.S. Jones’ consulting services. “Many times we are also asked to provide engineering to help evaluate

G.S. Jones workers position a temporary modular roof to cover over a gaping hole in The Carnegie Library’s roof.

damaged building components such as structural, mechanical, or environmental (mold).” Dan and his staff of consultants travel around the country assisting insurance companies and their insureds to recover from disasters, including Hurricane Katrina victims on the Gulf Coast. George, Dan, and Scott all believe that the most significant and gratifying part of their business is not to only help people restore their homes or businesses after a disaster, but also to restore their livelihood. No one can really be prepared emotionally (or otherwise) when fire or water damage turns one’s life upside down. Because of their continued efforts, G. S. Jones received the American Business Ethics Award presented to them by the Pittsburgh Business Times. George remarked, “Being the recipient of this award is a great honor in and of itself. However, we don’t consider it a hall pass. We continue to earn that recognition and prove it every day.”

How do I contact G.S. Jones? G.S. Jones can be contacted twenty four hours a day, seven days a week at 412-766-6886 or visit their website at www.gsjonesandsons.com. n

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Circle of Life Wayne Herrod Toma and her three three-week old cubs in the isolated denning area as viewed through the camera monitor

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Kathy Suthard, lead keeper and big cat handler at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. The article titled “The Lady and the Tiger” was a heartwarming story of the relationship between Kathy and the zoo’s brother-sister tiger duo, Shepis and Shasta, whom she helped raise since their birth in Too cute for August 1986. (Shepis and Shasta’s triplet Photo credit: Dr words! . Cindy Stadler sister, Sheena, was sent to the Milwaukee Zoo at age one.) Just because a computer matches two Spring ahead 20 years to August 8, 2006, animals does not automatically mean they as the circle of life continues. On this date, will mate. While the tigers were matched Toma (a beautiful and rare female Amur for almost two years, no results occurred. Siberian tiger) gave birth to triplets. Yorgi, the Kathy stated, “We were almost ready to father (also a Siberian tiger), was brought to call it quits and send Yorgi to another the zoo two years ago in 2004 for the specific zoo and bring in a second male for Toma. purpose of breeding with Toma. But love blossomed, and the pair finally The three new cubs born to Toma and mated. Since there are no examinations or Yorgi are special to the zoological world. tests you can safely give to a 400-pound Kathy said that they are the newest and Siberian tiger, it became a waiting game most unrepresented bloodlines of Siberian to observe and determine pregnancy.” The tigers in the United States. “The pairing of gestation period for tigers is approximately Toma and Yorgi made these three offspring 23 weeks. About halfway through, the zoo’s so rare because the parents’ bloodlines staff noticed a thickening in Toma’s waisthave not been bred in the U.S.” No other line. As weeks went by, it became obvious offspring in this bloodline exist. that Toma was pregnant with her Yorgi and Toma were matched expected due date around the by the Series Survival Plan first week in August. There (SSP). It’s sort of a comwas nothing to do but puter dating service for wait and prepare. zoo animals. The SSP’s I asked Kathy why goal is to ensure the no other births had ocsurvival and continucurred since the birth ation of endangered of the triplets 20 years species. “The match of ago. She explained that pure bloodlines is what Shasta and Shepis were makes these cubs so taken out of the breeding rare and valuable,” Kathy cycle as their family bloodProud Yorgi continued. line was over-represented.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Kathy compared the two birth events separated by 20 years. “The first births were like the Stone Age, these were like the Space Age. Twenty years ago I was not the lead keeper and everything was basic and simple. There was no planning other than putting a board around the mother’s bed to keep the babies from falling out when they were born. The babies were discovered by a night worker making his rounds, and we were notified by telephone.” The births this year were aided by modern technology, and what a difference it made! There were planning meetings and 100% observation of the mating tigers by staff, interns, and docents. A dedicated, secured, and isolated denning area (off exhibit) was prepared for Toma to give birth and raise her babies in the early weeks of their lives. This area was monitored 24/7 by two infrared cameras. The staff was instructed to intervene only if there was an apparent danger or a health problem with the babies. The first two weeks of a cub’s life is critical to its survival. “The other big difference for me is that in 1986 the births were novel. I learned what to do from the lead keeper at that time. Today the responsibility is mine,” said Kathy. She continued, “These births are so great for the zoo and the tiger population. However, we never fully focused on the value of the births until recently because we were so concerned on having a successful birthing experience.” Head curator Amos Morris sounds like a proud father, “I am so very proud of this institution and its people. Our due diligence has paid off with the birth of these marvelous and extremely valuable Amur Siberian tiger cubs. After two years of dedication and hard work, our efforts have paid

Pregnant Toma

off in a big way. This event is significant to the Siberian captive population.” The birth event itself is worth telling. On the morning of August 8, Kathy went to feed Toma. It was getting very close to her anticipated due date and Toma would not eat. “It was unusual for Toma not to eat—a hopeful indication that something was beginning to happen,” said Kathy. “Toma went to the birthing den and I immediately called Amos to tell him something was happening. We observed the camera’s monitor noticing that Toma was obviously uncomfortable. The deliveries took only 40 minutes and we were able to observe some activity on the screen. Toma suddenly got up and we were able to see a “spot “ on the floor nearest the camera. When the “spot” wiggled, we realized it was a cub. We then identified two more very tiny cubs (three to four inches long and weighing one and one half to two pounds). We watched to see Toma’s reaction to her cubs as a first-time mother. Her reaction was immediate as she cleaned her babies and took to mothering them. It was a great sign. We were extremely happy and relieved.” Congratulations, Kathy! It took 20 years for you to be a “mom” again. These tigers are in good hands as we learned from your love of Shasta and Shepis. As they grow, these tigers will also be loved and cared for because you are now “The Lady and the Tigers.” n

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On September 14, 2006, one of the three cubs died due to a heart problem. As of this writing, the other two cubs are doing fine. Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

From Here Surviving the Gray Day Drag Erin Gibson Allen

Every year, after

the tinsel and glow of the holidays are packed away, I struggle to hold myself together through the back end of winter. Like a driver caught in a downpour, relying on hope and instinct, I slowly move forward, anticipating blue skies ahead. Last year, during a spell of sleet-filled, slush-soaked days, I turned to an old friend for help—the library. My quest led me to a book about winter blues that I believed just might help restore my sunny outlook. After reading a few chapters on Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, I determined, to my relief, that I didn’t satisfy the criteria for this full-blown mood disorder. Despite the gray skies, I was getting my lazy self out of bed, ushering the kids onto the school bus, keeping my appointments, and otherwise functioning normally. Celebrating these small successes, I felt better already. But after completing a self-assessment questionnaire, I determined that I did satisfy the criteria for a lesser condition— Subsyndromal SAD. Yes, I confirmed to myself, I feel the worst during the cold and dark months. Over the winter I want more sleep, and yes, I do put on a few pounds by reaching for those energy-giving carbohydrates and happiness-inducing chocolates. I have been frequently handing over four dollars to coffee shops for caffeine-laced lattes lately. Maybe I’m a bit more moody, too. Sure, I even feel less creative, productive, and enthusiastic. Well then, I had a diagnosis. Next, I needed a cure. The first step in my treatment was a trip to the natural food store. Apparently I required a curious-sounding herb called St. John’s Wort. I paid my $12.99 and stepped into the gray parking lot of the strip mall, clutching my bottle with the anticipation of young children after trick-or-treating. Take one capsule, three times a day. Easy enough. Deciding to be aggressive about this new condition, I went online and with a click of my gray mouse ordered the second 18

thing that I had read might also help—a light box. Light boxes are different from regular lamps. First, they cost more. Second, they are indisputably ugly. I was pleased, however, to find some newer models disguised as desk lamps. My light box would sit purposefully on my desk sending 10,000 luxes into my eyes, improving the chemistry of my brain, resulting in a cheerier disposition. What a lux was, I didn’t know. I assumed it was some sort of hybrid combining watts with luxury, meaning that my goose-necked light would emit a more luxurious wattage than I was used to. I deserved that, I reasoned. No

more ordinary watts for me. Thirty minutes each morning in front of my luxury lamp. Got it. Keep up with the St. John’s Wort. Check. After about a week on my new regimen, I was on fire. I was accomplishing 32 tasks a day, instead of my usual four. I was cheerful as I returned phone calls, read the 67 fliers in my sons’ backpacks, cleaned the litter box, and ran the electric bill to the mailbox before 8:30 a.m. At the end of the day, dinner was hot, tasty, and nutritious. I relayed every detail of my day to my husband. I discussed important moral issues with my children all while flossing their teeth and tying their shoes. But, alas, a gray day hit in long, uneventful March. My fit of productivity had worn me ragged. Letting the soft pressure of my favorite blanket coax me into some muscle-relaxing couch devotion, the gray day got me again. I had no interest in things beyond Wolf Blitzer and the handful of pretzels I found in the pantry. My lapse shouldn’t have surprised me. Really, I thought a pill and a lamp would cure me of our gray days? Living where we

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

do, apparently one has a 17.1% chance of suffering from this gray day drag, and the affliction is more likely to strike women in their mommy years. Frankly, I suspect that the number of moms who feel tired, moody, and less creative as the winter plods along is through the roof. The hard work of tending to and rallying busy kids simply makes a mom tired. I read somewhere that the Pirates have more wins than Pittsburgh has sunny days. Who can beat those odds? Henry Miller said, “In this age, which believes that there is a shortcut to everything, the greatest lesson to be learned is that the most difficult way is, in the long run, the easiest.” Exactly what that means for a mother like me as I face another winter, I’m not sure. Does the lack of light impact my circadian rhythm in some medical sense that I don’t really understand? Am I a pink-wearing, feminine Hulk, who, when denied light, turns into a grumpy, tired mom? Can medical science offer me hope? Or is summer patently more enjoyable and I simply need to stop looking for shortcuts to ward off the dampening effect of shorter days, spent mostly indoors? This coming year when spring arrives, either I will have napped like an old cat and eaten too much Valentine’s candy or I will have dragged myself forward, tackled my clutter, and finished a long-delayed project. In my efforts to perk up this year, I’m not sure if I’ll use my herbs, luxes, tough love, or some newfound book. Pittsburgh winters return to challenge me, and I, fresh with optimism, continue to devise strategies for victory. What matters, I suppose, is that I leave behind my prior failures, no matter how complete or numerous they are. Perhaps life sends each of us our own recurring challenge. Success may elude us, but we’re better from the effort of the chase. We keep trying. One never knows. This might be the year. n I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas about my column with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at eallen@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Let me know if, like me, you’re from here.

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first time in more than ten years, Upper St. Clair published a free community telephone directory and delivered it to all USC households. Long time USC residents Terry Abbott, agent for Prudential Preferred Realty, and David Mathews, owner of Seaton Printing Solutions, teamed up to make the new directory a reality. Abbott had been using her 1996 directory for ten years and was frustrated because many USC Celebrating the Upper St. Clair directory are, left to right: people she knew were not listed in Mark Mansfield, USC Senior Assistant Township Manager; her book. When she approached David Mathews, owner of Seaton Printing Solutions; Mathews with the idea of updating Terry Abbott, agent for Prudential Preferred Realty; and Douglas Watkins, USC Township Manager. and reprinting the directory, he immediately saw a perfect fit with his business. Seaton Printing Solutions, in business for Verizon furnished over 30 years, provides commercial printing, the published resigraphic design, marketing materials, and related dential and business services for corporate, financial, retail, and non- telephone listings profit enterprises. under a license agreeAbbott and Mathews presented their idea for ment with Seaton the new directory to Upper St. Clair Township Directories, a division Manager Douglas Watkins and Senior Assistant of Seaton Printing Township Manager Mark Mansfield. Both men Solutions. These listenthusiastically endorsed the new directory, but ings cover more than stipulated that it be self-supporting—that is, 7000 households published without using tax dollars. and include more The new telephone directory was funded than 25 telephone by ad revenue from local business. UPPER ST. prefixes, 8000 residential phone numbers, and CLAIR TODAY (TODAY) magazine provided 750 business phone numbers. advertising support. Watkins, Mansfield, and Additional support for the project came Linda Dudzinski, editor of TODAY, assigned from another USC resident. Ned Garnhart, reUSC resident and TODAY advertising sales rep- tired chairman of Bethel Park School District’s resentative Lynn Dempsey to the task of helping art department, provided the original painting sell the advertising space needed to publish of the 1830 log house and Township building the directory. Dempsey put her more than 11 that appears on the directory’s front cover. Ron years of USC advertising sales experience to Fleischer, a 26-year veteran of the Upper St. work, enabling her and Mathews to garner the Clair Police Department, provided enhanced necessary number of ads quickly in order to photographs of the log house, Township buildmake the book possible. ing, and the Route 19 fire department. Cindy Going forward, USC’s new telephone direc- Kane, administrative assistant to Township tory will be published bi-annually. The 2006-07 Manager Douglas Watkins, provided invaluable edition, printed in full color on high quality proofreading assistance. And, of course, the paper has many benefits. advertisers provided the funds that made the directory possible. • Large print for easy reading. Plans for updating the 2008-09 directory • Community, city, county, state, and federal are already underway, with an expected autumn government contacts. 2008 delivery. Anyone interested in learning • USC history, library, and residential trash more about advertising opportunities in future and recycling information. editions should contact Seaton Directories either • All published residential and business by email (sales@seatondirectories.com) or by listings within the 15241 zip code. calling 412-833-5453. Additional copies of the • USC organizations, churches, synagogues, USC Community Directory can be purchased for nursery schools, and day care centers. $3 by contacting the Township of Upper St. Clair at 412-831-9000, extension 210. n

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

s P r o f i l eon

USC People

Dr. Baratz was an integral part of the Arlene Baratz, MD, a breast im- area’s first Pink Ribbon Round-Up Corral aging specialis t at for a Cure, a two-day event targeting the Allegheny General local equestrian community to raise money Hospital and Upper to benefit the Pittsburgh affiliate of the St. Clair resident , Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. sees firsthand the Dr. Baratz and other committee members devastat ing affect dedicated much of their time to planning breast cancer has this inaugural event, which kicked off on so many women. Because of this, with an October evening gala followed by she’s joined forces with the Pink a horseback ride the next day. For more Ribbon Round-Up organization, a group informa tion about the Pink Ribbon dedicated to raising money for breast Round-Up, call 724-799-6050 or visit the cancer research in hopes that research website www.pinkribbonroundup.com. Dr. Baratz is a 1976 graduate of Upper St. will ultimately lead to a cure. Dr. Baratz serves on the organization’s board of Clair High School and has three children, all of whom are also USCHS graduates. directors.

Congressman Tim Murphy and Michael Seese at Community Day 2006.

Michael Seese, 2006 USCHS graduate, received a Congressional nomination from Congressman Tim Murphy to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point this fall. Michael has served Upper St. Clair well as a volunteer firefighter while he was in high school. Michael graduated from West Point’s cadet basic training this past August and is continuing his education at the academy. n

Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor, Upper St. Clair Today, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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Township of Upper St. Clair Ched Mertz

President, Ward 4 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3631 2009*

Bill Bates

Vice President, At Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-257-8115 2007*

Township News

Preston W. Shimer Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2007*

Kenneth L. Brown Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-4512 2009*

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2007*

Frank E. Marsh Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-6244 2007*

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Meetings All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000. June 5, 2006

July 3, 2006

Approximately 16 people attended.

Approximately 12 people attended.

Recognitions: • C ommissioner Marsh presented a Proclamation to Anne R. Humphreys and Sam Bertenthal recognizing the 200th anniversary of the Philips-Seegar House. • Commissioner Orchowski presented a Certificate of Achievement to Amanda Lohman for winning the 2005-06 WPIAL diving championship. • Commissioner Orchowski presented a Certificate of Achievement to Arjun Prabhu, a member of the high school men’s tennis team in recognition of the 2005-06 WPIAL men’s tennis championship. Team members were Nicholas Darrow, Christopher Foster, Jonathan Henderson, Matthew Hough, James Jones, Jamison Lawson, Alex Lippold, Christopher Meenen, Arjun Prabhu, Evan Reese, Christopher Riley, Alexander Romanias, Alexander Su, Kevin Su, and Scott Yanak. Coaches are Ron Mercer and Terry Tressler. • Commissioner Orchowski acknowledged the achievement of Katie Orchowski for winning the 2005-06 WPIAL 800-meter dash championship and acknowledged the achievement of the girls’ 3200-meter relay team which won the 2005-06 WPIAL 3200-meter relay team championship. Team members were Melissa Fairgrieve, Alexander Findley, Katie Orchowski, and Sarah Sukenik. Coaches are Tim and Carol Olack. The Board: • Closed the public hearing regarding the adoption of the 2005 Comprehensive Plan. • A pproved Resolution No. 1464 adopting the 2005 Comprehensive Plan. • Adopted Bill No. 3-06, the official map of the Township of Upper St. Clair incorporated within the 2005 Comprehensive Plan. • Adopted Bill No. 6-06 regarding PLC06-0003, Trotwood Extension Plan No. 10, preliminary and final subdivision approval. • Approved Bill No. 7-06 regarding PLC06-0004, Fox Chase PRD Phase 4, final approval. • Approved Bill No. 8-06, regarding PLC06-0006, Sainte Claire Plaza Expansion, final approval. • Approved Boyce Mayview Field Development, Phase One, additional expenditures. Board Approval of Contract: • Ketchum, Inc.–Pittsburgh Fundraising Consulting Services.......................... $32,500

At Large

Day 412-831-9000 2009*

Recognitions: • Commissioner Mertz announced a Proclamation was prepared for Michael Stephan Seese recognizing his attainment of Eagle Scout rank. Stephen was unable to attend as he had already reported to West Point Academy. • Commissioner Mertz recognized former Commissioner Gloria S. Smith for her outstanding community service, her time as president of SHACOG, and dedication as an Upper St. Clair Township commissioner. Township Manager Douglas Watkins presented Mrs. Smith with a certificate from the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities for her completion of the Professional Educational Certificate Program. Commissioner Mertz presented Mrs. Smith with a gift in appreciation of her service to the Township. The Board: • Granted preliminary subdivision approval regarding PLC06-0007, Forestbrook Estates Plan Revision No. 1. • Adopted Resolution No. 1465 granting preliminary subdivision approval to Forestbrook Estates Plan, subject to certain conditions. • A pproved staff ’s recommendations regarding Boyce Mayview Park Interior Trails, with exceptions. Board Approval of Contract: • First Out–Moon Township 2006 Fire Truck Pumper.................................. $369,626

August 7, 2006 Special Meeting

June 19, 2006 Approximately 3 people attended.

The Board: • Approved Bill No. 9-06 regarding the refinancing of a portion of the 2003 General Bond Issue.

Karen M. McElhinny

Gloria Smith is recognized by Township Manager Douglas Watkins for her service to the community.

Approximately 7 people attended.

The Board: • A dopted Bill No. 10-06, granting final subdivision approval regarding PLC06-0008, Forestbrook Estates Plan Revision No. 1. • Adopted Resolution No. 1467 adopting the 2007-2011 Capital Improvement Program.

2006 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Hearing Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

24 ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006 24 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Visit our website - www.twpusc.org

Upper St. Clair Township’s Community Recreation Center Boyce Mayview Park, comprised of over

475 acres, is the largest municipally-owned park in the region, second only to Pittsburgh’s 600-acre Frick Park. The Boyce “section” was acquired from Allegheny County in 1984. In 1996 the Township acquired an adjoining 240-acre parcel of surplus state property formerly part of Mayview Hospital, thus creating Boyce Mayview Park. Township officials contemplated various uses for Boyce Mayview and ultimately authorized a master plan study to determine the most appropriate development of this incredible resource. The resulting 1999 Park Master Plan (funded in part by the Regional Asset District), which was completed with the assistance of WTW Architects and considerable public input, called for a balance between passive park activities such as hiking and gardening and more active recreation programs requiring, among other things, the development of fields, pools, and a community recreation center. Park development began first with the Regional Environmental Education Center, which is located in an area adjacent to the designated active area and a number of proposed nature trails. To date, almost ten miles of trails and bridges have been completed, an old rundown farm outbuilding has become a beautiful pavilion, and two soccer/football fields and a baseball and softball field have been developed. A significant portion of the perimeter trail (a hard surface multi-use trail) is slated for construction next year with state grants. What’s next?

Community Recreation Center Based upon preliminary investigations of recreation centers and pools in Western Pennsylvania and Ohio by various Township board members, volunteers, and staff, it became clear that these facilities were highly prized within their respective towns and provided an invaluable community resource. In late 2004, the Township Commissioners engaged nationally recognized Ballard*King and Associates to provide an economic and market assessment for a proposed community recreation center. A preliminary report estimated that the cost of a recreation center, complete with indoor and outdoor aquatics, could run as high as $36 million dollars. The completion of the Ballard*King report

was put on hold until a more thorough needs analysis was conducted through a community advisory group. In June 2005, the Ad Hoc Advisory Group was created by the Board of Commissioners with representatives from over 20 different community groups, clubs, churches, and homeowners’ associations. The group began its charge of investigating recreation complexes with an extremely diverse perspective. The group visited a number of facilities, and researched and identified specific attributes, equipment, and programming

that could be used by residents of all ages from pre-school through senior citizens. In the end, most, if not all of the initial doubters became convinced that Upper St. Clair could benefit greatly from the development of a community recreation center. Shortly after the receipt of the Ad Hoc Advisory Group’s report, Ballard*King was re-engaged to complete its economic analysis for the proposed community recreation center. The Ballard*King report, which was completed in February 2006, helped bring focus to those amenities which would have high utilization and also be best able to help pay for themselves through various charges. The Ballard*King report indicated that annual operation expenses could be paid through memberships, daily rates, program fees, room rentals, and the like. Capital expenses, on the other hand, would have to be covered by a tax subsidy, private gifts, or some combination thereof. In spring 2006, the joint architectural team of WTW Architects, Pittsburgh; and Larsen Architects, Cleveland, Ohio; along with EPM Architects, Pittsburgh was hired to create a preschematic design of the Township’s community recreation center. Working through a core team consisting of two Commissioners, two Township residents

who had served on the Ad Hoc Advisory Group, and two Township staff members, and after many hours and much compromise, WTW/Larsen was able to unveil its design to the community at the September 6, 2006, public forum which was held at the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. At this meeting, the history of the project was discussed in detail by Commissioners and volunteers. The interior and exterior layout of the building was presented by the architectural team and the tax implications for the proposed $22.5 million center were reviewed. Citizens’ comments from the 250 plus in attendance and the completed written questionnaires were overwhelmingly favorable, both toward the design of the facility and for moving the process forward. Questions and suggestions from the meeting and survey forms were referred back to the core team for additional consideration. At a meeting held September 20, 2006, the Board of Commissioners publicly discussed the question as to the necessity of proceeding with a referendum question with regard to issuing “electoral debt” to fund the construction of the proposed community recreation center. As it was clearly determined that this project was within the Township’s “borrowing base,” the Board of Commissioners unanimously decided it was not necessary to include a referendum question on the fall 2006 ballot. At a subsequent meeting, a fee structure task force was created to review membership rates, programming charges, and other operational issues to assure that the facility (and its refined design) would be capable of recovering its annual operation costs. Sensitivity to issues of affordability and accessibility were key in their analysis. It is expected that at the time of this magazine’s release (early November), the Board will be in position to authorize the design development and bid preparation and construction management contracts for the community recreation center. The Township is extremely grateful to the commitment of our many talented and thoughtful citizens who throughout the past ten years have served in various capacities and have devoted many hours of their valuable time toward bringing this project to fruition. Through their efforts, Boyce Mayview Park is poised to truly become the jewel of Upper St. Clair and the South Hills region. n

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

We Have Just the Thing The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is pleased to be offering several programs during the winter months, including ThinkadinkTM, Restorative Yoga, Math Play-Time, Household HarmonyTM presenting Music Together®, Crochet, and more. Contact the department at 412-831-9000, extension 256, for a full list of available classes. Three easy ways to register: Some classes have limited availability. Register early to guarantee yourself a spot! 1. 2. 3.

Register online 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.twpusc.org/rec. Mail registration with appropriate fee to: USC Recreation, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. Make check payable to USC Recreation. Come in to the Recreation office during regular business hours Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in the lower level of the Municipal building.

Scrapbooking—Friday Night “Pizza Crops” Experienced or beginner, join us for six hours of cropping fun. Pizza and beverages will be provided. Bring all supplies. Register with a friend. Instructor: Days: Dates: Time: Place: Fee:

Chérie Dixon Fridays November 10, December 8, January 12, February 9, March 9, April 13 6 p.m.-midnight Multipurpose Room 2/Library Multipurpose Room $8 per crop session–resident, $10 per crop session–nonresident +$4 dinner fee payable to instructor at class

Kids’ Scrapbooking—Cabin Fever “Crop” No school today! Get out of the house and come crop with us. Beginner or pro, learn the basics or add some zip to your already existing album pages. Register with a friend or come and make some new ones. Bring your photos, scissors, and glue; the rest of the supplies will be provided. A pizza lunch also will be provided. Instructor: Session I: Session II: Time: Place: Fee:

Chérie Dixon January 15 February 19 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Multipurpose Room 2 $20 per session–resident, $25 per session–nonresident

Holiday Fun Crafts, games, snack, and a special visit from “you know who” from the North Pole—children will have the chance to enjoy an hour of holiday fun under the guidance of Instructor Renee Baldino. Date: Time: Place: Fee:

Saturday, December 16 11 a.m.-noon (ages 3-4) 12:30-1:30 p.m. (ages 5-6) Library Multipurpose Room $17/child–resident, $20/child–nonresident

Computer Classes A variety of fun and interactive computer classes—from very basic through the use of the Internet, email, digital cameras, eBay, Word, and Excel. Taught by Web-wise seniors, the classes have been designed for folks over 50, but are open to anyone! Classes are taught on Thursday afternoons and Monday evenings. For each two-session class, the fee is $42 for residents and $55 for nonresidents. Contact the Recreation Department for more information. 26

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Scrapbooking 101 Beginner Class Scrapbooking is a fun, fulfilling hobby. Have you wanted to start, but not sure how? Join us for Scrapbooking 101 and see how simple it really is. Bring six or more photos of the same (or any) subject, glue, and scissors. The rest of the supplies that you’ll need to get started will be provided. Instructor: Days: Dates: Time: Place:

Chérie Dixon Fridays January 26, February 23 10 a.m.-noon Multipurpose Room 2

Days: Dates: Time: Fee:

Tuesdays January 23 (Multipurpose Room 2) February 20 (Library Multipurpose Room) 6-8 p.m. $12 per session–resident, $15 per session–nonresident +$10 materials fee payable to instructor at class

Cooking for Kids Participants (grades one through four) will try out recipes to make a breakfast, lunch/dinner, dessert, and an appetizer. All aspects of working in the kitchen will be covered. Dates: Day: Times: Place: Fee:

February 7–28 Wednesdays 4:30-6 p.m. Recreation Center $40–resident, $53–nonresident +$8 materials fee payable to instructor at first class

Day Trip—Holiday Progressive Dinner Monday, December 11 Fee: $65 Departing at approximately 1:30 p.m., a motor coach filled with USC and Peters Township residents will travel to downtown Pittsburgh for a view of the holiday lights at PPG Place, and then to the Grand Concourse Restaurant for the dinner’s first course of salad and rolls. From there, the group will motor up to Mt. Washington to take in the sights and dine at the Bella Vista Ristorante Italiano. Afterward, the group will re-board and travel on to see the twinkling lights of Hartwood Acres annual holiday display. The group will finish off the night with a stop for one of the famous desserts “made daily in their kitchen” at Gullifty’s Restaurant. Good food, beautiful lights, wonderful desserts, and great holiday fun with old friends and new ones—what an enjoyable evening it will be!

“Mommy” and Me A special time for moms, dads, or caregivers and their children (two to three years of age) to have structured fun together. Classes include basic tumbling, props, and parachute games. Session 2: Day: Times: Place: Fee:

January 24–May 2 (no class April 4) Wednesdays 12:15-1 p.m. Multipurpose Room 1 $84–resident $112–nonresident

You’ve Been Looking For! Gingerbread House Workshop Decorate your own gingerbread house. We’ll provide the supplies, you bring your imagination. Session I: Times: Place:

Saturday, December 2 10:30 a.m.-noon (grades 5-8) 1-2:30 p.m. (grades 1-4) Recreation Center

Session II: Times: Place:

Sunday, December 10 1-2:30 p.m. (grades 1-4) or 3:30-5 p.m. (grades 1-4) Recreation Center

Session III: Time: Place: Fee:

Monday, December 4* 10:30 a.m.-noon (ages 3-5) Recreation Center $15 per session–resident, $20 per session–nonresident +$5 materials fee payable to instructor at class

*Session III is designed for preschoolers (ages three to five) accompanied by a caregiver to decorate a house together.

Children’s Dance Classes Tuesdays: January 23–May 1 (no class April 3) Ages 3-4 Ballet/Acro Ages 3-5 Ballet Tumbling Tap Ages 4-6 Ballet/Acro** Ages 6-8 Ballet/Jazz** Tumbling

9:30-10 a.m., 10:15-10:45 a.m., 1-1:30 p.m. 10:45-11:15 a.m., 1:30-2 p.m. 11:15-11:45 a.m., 2-2:30 p.m. 5:45-6:30 p.m. 4-4:45 p.m. 4:45-5:15 p.m.

Ages 3-5 Ballet Tumbling Tap

1-1:30 p.m. 1:30-2 p.m. 2-2:30 p.m.

Fees:

$50 per class/session–resident $64 per class/session–nonresident **$70 per class/session–resident **$84 per class/session–nonresident

Family Swim Take the plunge during the open swim hours at the High School pool. Open only to Township residents. All children ages 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Open to children (ages two to five) accompanied by an adult. Weekly art projects allow you to explore creativity through the eyes of a child. Dates: Day: Time: Place: Fee:

February 6–March 6 Tuesdays 10:30-11:15 a.m. Recreation Center $40–resident, $53–nonresident +$10 materials fee payable to instructor at first class

Karate Day: Place: Fee: Instructor:

Thursdays Multipurpose Room 1 $75 per session (eight weeks) Chuck Kerrigan, Traditional Karate-Do

Session II: Session III:

November 30–January 25 (no class December 28) Red and gold belts–4-4:30 p.m. Returning students–4:30-5 p.m. New students–5-5:30 p.m. February 8–March 20 Red and gold belts–4-4:30 p.m. Returning students–4:30-5 p.m., 5-5:30 p.m. New students–5:30-6 p.m.

5:15-5:45 p.m.

Wednesdays: January 24–May 2 (no class April 4)

Dates: Days: Time: Place: Fee:

Our Time Art

February 3–May 13 Saturdays and Sundays 2-4:30 p.m. USC High School pool $20/individual membership $45/family membership $5 per person walk-in/guest fee at the door

Happy Hearts (Ages 3–5) Little ones can spend the morning working on a special Valentine’s Day craft they can keep or share with their favorite valentine. Includes a special snack. Date: Time: Place: Fee:

Saturday, February 10 11 a.m.-noon Library Multi Purpose Room $17/child–resident, $20/child–nonresident

Chess Anyone? Chess classes for novices and experienced players are available to students in first through 12th grades; adults are welcome to participate as well. Beginners can learn the fascinating strategies of chess and intermediate players can fine-tune their game. Each session includes instruction and supervised free play provided by instructor Eric Berthoud. All equipment provided. Classes are ongoing. Day: Place: Time: Fee:

Thursdays Multipurpose Room 2 7-8:15 p.m. $3 walk-in per class

Drawing and Painting for Children Create drawings and paintings with acrylics, watercolors, and pastels. Learn about line drawing, color, and design by drawing from still life, the figure, and your imagination. Dates: Day: Times: Place: Fee:

February 6–March 6 Tuesdays 4-5 p.m. (ages 6-8) 5:15-6:15 p.m. (ages 9-12) Recreation Center $45/resident, $60/nonresident +$10 materials fee payable to instructor at first class Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Public Public Works Works Department Department Projects Projects for for 2006 2006 The Pubic Works Department has been busy this year with the following projects:

Boyce Mayview Park field

development

McLaughlin Run Creek gabion wall project

Township Building landscap

ing

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building sidewalk replacement/snowmelt system installation. Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building landscaping phase II. Wiltshire Park pedestrian bridge replacement. Second of three bridges to be upgraded and stream bank renovation between bridge replacement 1 and 2. Boyce Mayview Park trail system development including two walking bridges. Boyce Mayview Park field development bathroom/storage facility construction in conjunction with park general contractor. McLaughlin Run Creek gabion project at Marmion baseball field. Grey Mill/Boyce School pedestrian right-of-way sidewalk replacement. Three hundred feet of asphalt walkway replacement. Extended Circle Drive storm sewer from the end of Circle Drive to Deerfield retention area. Morrow Road berm stabilization and gabion wall erection. Paddle court skirting/replacement, upgrading of all electrical and gas lines. Replacement of Trotwood Park spray pool. Sanitary sewer operation and maintenance project in progress. Dye testing by State Pipe under the Administrative Consent Order (ACO) nearing completion. Video inspection of sanitary sewers under the ACO continuing. Physical inspection of sanitary sewer manholes under the ACO in progress. GPS location of sanitary sewer manholes under the ACO continuing. McLaughlin Run storm water project from Outlook Drive to McLaughlin Run Road. Annual streets resurfacing program underway. McLaughlin Run storm sewer outfall project from Cook School Road to McLaughlin Run Road. Annual crack sealing program. Color coating at Municipal basketball courts. Pavement markings: line striping, stop bars, and arrows. Traffic island landscaping.

Annual streets resurfacing

program

Boyce Mayview Park brid

Sanitary sewer project

ent

Paddle court skirting replacem

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Township Building sidewalk

Wiltshire Park bridge

USCVFD Honors Deceased Firefighters The volunteers of the Upper St. Clair Fire Department took

time to honor their deceased members when they unveiled a monument donated by Beinhauer Funeral Service during a brief ceremony on June 7. Doug Dennig, the firefighter who worked with Rick Rega of Beinhauer on the memorial, spoke about the four men who once served the Upper St. Clair community as volunteer firefighters. Rege Tomnay, who died in July 1992, was a member of the USCVFD for 37 years, and served as treasurer and chief. A resident of Bartley Road, he worked for Duquesne Light Company. Rege and his wife, Grace, had three sons, Ray, Joe, and Richard, and a daughter, Patty. Rege’s sons, Ray and Richard, and grandsons, Mike and Rick, have all followed in Rege’s footsteps and served as firefighters. George Haffner served as treasurer and chief during his 36 years with the fire department. The head of security for Mayview State Hospital, George and his wife, Gertrude, made their home on Johnston Road. Haffner passed away in December 1993. J. Walter Philips, Jr. was a charter member of the fire department with 57 years of service. A government worker who worked for the U.S. Air Force, Philips died of a bee sting in August 1995. He and his wife, Maxine, lived on Ruthfred Drive. Dennig said Philips, who was never a fan of the old white stucco fire station, would have liked the new red brick station.

Rick Rega, Doug Dennig, and Rick Beinhauer at the monument which honors USCVFD deceased members.

Barney Cassedy, Sr., the owner of West Liberty Glass, had 48 years of service with the USCVFD. He and his wife, Betty, made their home on Harrow Road, raising three sons, Barney, Jr., Herman, and Jimmy, and daughter, Irene. Cassedy died in June 2001. During his funeral the fire department was called out for a house fire in the Tall Trees community of Upper St. Clair. The monument, honoring these deceased members of the USCVFD, is located by the flagpoles at the fire station on Route 19. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Library

Children’s Library The summer is always a busy time at the Upper St. Clair

Township Children’s Library. This year, 440 children participated in the new Ready to Read program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergartners. Young children and their parents worked to complete 11 activity squares each week. The library rewarded the kids with bubbles, chalk, playdough, books, magnetic letters, tablets, and a toy fish. The school-age Summer Reading program had 710 participants who collectively enjoyed reading over 7000 books during June and July. Participants earned a ticket for weekly prize drawings for each book they read. The library gave away 90 prizes to participants and their parents.

The Ready to Read and Summer Reading programs were made possible through many generous organizations and businesses. The library’s staff would like to especially thank Friends of the Upper St. Clair Library for their continued and tireless support of the library’s many programs, including Ready to Read and Summer Reading. Many thanks to all who donated time, money, and prizes for these summer reading programs. n

2006 Summer Reading Sponsors Allegheny City Parks Ardolino’s Pizza Applebees Barnes & Noble Brookside Woman’s Club Carnegie Museums Carnegie Science Center The Children’s Museum Dairy Queen Don’s Appliance Donut Connection

Eat n’ Park Friends of the Upper St. Clair Library Gateway Clipper Giant Eagle Heinz History Center Joe’s Crab Shack Little Lake Theater Loafer’s Macy’s National Aviary Panera Bread

Pati-Petite Cookies Phipp’s Conservatory Pittsburgh Pirates Pittsburgh Steelers Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Pizzaz Pizza Pizza Hut Portman’s Farm Market Rice Enterprises (McDonald’s) Rita’s Italian Ice Starbucks

Subway Target TGI Friday’s Washington River Hounds Washington Wild Things Welcome Wagon Club of USC USC Recreation Department

Participants in a “Ready to Read” adventure ” program

Library prize winner

“I Love to Read

Library Hours Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. • Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Sunday 1-5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24 hours a day, collected daily at 9 a.m. In observance of the winter holidays, the library will be closed: Sunday, December 24 • Monday, December 25 • Tuesday, December 26 Sunday, December 31 • Monday, January 1 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

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Cindy Specht entertained children at an activity called “Afternoon of Ventriloquism.”

“I hope my reading ticket gets picked for a prize!”

Summer Reading desk

Fun and games at the library

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“I Love to Read” program

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Savvy Seniors Are you a retired resident of Upper St. Clair, age 55 or older? Would you enjoy: • Making new friends • Playing bridge or other card games • Bowling • Shooting pool • Going on day trips • Or just talking with friends, new and old? Members of the United Senior Citizens of

Upper St. Clair (USC-USTC) cordially invite you to have lunch at the Upper St. Clair Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road on any Wednesday that is convenient for you. The center is open 10 a.m.4 p.m. for the Township’s senior citizens. Not only will you be served a hot lunch, dessert, and beverage, but also you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy interesting and varied programs, presentations, and entertainment sponsored by the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. All you have to do is join in!

Members of USC-USTC listen to harpist Angela Liu.

The USC-USTC enjoyed a visit from the

Girl Scouts of Upper St. Clair who brought a touch of camp when they came to make lunch, sing songs, tap lummi sticks, and do crafts with the group. In August, an afternoon was spent listening to harpist Angela Liu play for the enLeft to right: harp ist Angela tertainment of the many seniors who attended grandparents, Renxian Jiang an Liu and her d Youzhen Zhang that day’s gathering. Upcoming fall and winter activities include the annual Thanksgiving feast and holiday luncheon. Presentations and discussions on senior health and wellness, local interests, and entertainment programs are held year-round.

To make a reservation, or for more information, contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, at 412-831-9000, extension 296 or kerman@twpusc.org.

Attention Senior Citizens, age 65 and older: If you would like to register for the ACCESS 65 PLUS shared-ride transportation program or make application for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen Identification Card to be used for the Port Authority Transit system, please contact the Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, 412-831-9000, extension 296. 32

Members of USC-USTC enjoyed time with an Upper St. Clair Girl Scout troop at a Wednesday afternoon gathering. Together, they tapped lummi sticks. (Foreground, left to right: Betty Stearns and Kim Forster)

Gold Card

Silver Card

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. See and enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District. If you are a resident, 62 years of age or older, just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card. It’s a great way to experience your community!

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair are entitled to apply for a Silver Card that will admit holders to the Upper St. Clair Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, family swim program, and to attend other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card program. Applications are available at the Recreation Department.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Ready, Willing, and Able Tr i - C o m m u n i t y S o u t h E M S

school districts it covers, Tri-Community assisted in safety services for the 2006 South covers events including Allegheny Major League Baseball All-Star Game at County’s Concert in the Park series in PNC Park on July 11. Supervisor John South Park, the Town Hall South lecture Bower was element leader for one of the series in Upper St. Clair, the National Bike county Operations Support Team (OST) League’s BMX national championship seStrike Teams at PNC Park, and five other ries races in South Park, and many other staff members (Director Nora Helfrich, Su- local gatherings. pervisor Marian Wawrzkowicz, Supervisor Each of Tri-Community South’s 31 Kevin Trichtinger, EMT David Britton, and full-time and part-time employees is EMT Chris Geraci) were part of the secu- trained in the principles of incident manrity escort for U.S. Senator Rick Santorum agement and incident command. At the and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Beaver Valley Power Station drill, field Tri-Community South was the sole EMS EMT David Britton was the incident comagency represented in this detail and was mander at the evacuation center. Like any selected because of the service’s level other Tri-Community South employee, of accreditation and its involvement in regional emergency management and planning. Tri-Community South is one of only 102 ambulance services in North America and the only EMS system in Allegheny County to have achieved accreditation by the Commission for the Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS). Several staff members participate in the national Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), the Western Pennsylvania Region Left to right: U.S. Senator Rick Santorum, former NYC Mayor Rudy Guiliani, Nora Helfrich, and David Britton 1 3 Ta s k F o rc e , a n d A l l e g h e n y C o u n t y ’s Operations Support Team. Tri-Community David is trained in the Incident Command South is committed to the homeland secu- System (ICS), ICS for Single Resources and rity mission, and participates in local and Initial Action Incidents, and the National regional exercises and drills, such as the Incident Management System (NIMS). He mass evacuation drill at the Beaver Valley also has training in more advanced ICS Nuclear Power Station on June 28, 2006, and emergency management principles where Tri-Community South was the lead and practices. Every Tri-Community South EMS agency at the evacuation center and employee is expected to be able to funcat the emergency response drill at the U.S. tion as the incident commander at any Department of Energy’s National Energy emergency. n Technology Laboratory in South Park on June 21, 2006, where Tri-Community For more information on emergency South was the lead EMS agency for the preparedness, medical coverage for mass operation. gatherings, or any of the services TriTri-Community South is also quite Community South EMS provides, call experienced in providing medical care 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, at mass gatherings. In 2005, the system 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit its website provided stand-by medical coverage for at www.tcsems.org. See EMS subscription 259 events. In addition to providing serdrive information on page 36. vices at the athletic events for the three

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

l j

Winter Storm Emergencies

Info Line 412-854-5353 www.twpusc.org Please Do NOT Call the Public Works Department!

Winter storm emergencies are just

that—emergencies. The Township of Upper St. Clair’s administrative staff, Police Department, and Public Works Department are on call 24 hours a day to help residents and businesses by making the streets safe. During the winter season, Township residents are asked to be patient and understanding. To help the Police and Public Works Department during storms, the Township asks the cooperation of residents in the following areas: 1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to a minimum. Public Works and Police phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls only during storm situations. The Township is as eager as you to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads such as Route 19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort Couch Road, and Mayview Road are plowed first as a matter of public safety and for emergency vehicles.

private snow removal. Please refer to the Verizon Yellow Pages. 7. The Township receives numerous calls regarding sidewalks not being adequately maintained during heavy snow periods. Sidewalks with unshoveled snow may cause problems for residents, school children, mail carriers, delivery persons, etc. Chapter 109 of the Township Code states that the standard removal time of snow and ice from sidewalks is within 12 hours after the snow or ice has ceased to fall or be formed. There are several Township-owned sidewalks that are posted “No Winter Maintenance” and are not covered under this ordinance.

3. When streets are plowed, snow will be pushed in front of driveways. Unfortu nately, there is no other place for the snow to go. 4. The Public Works Department is not permitted to assist residents by clearing driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mail boxes. Public Works employees work as many hours as necessary to make streets, inlets, cul-de-sacs, sidewalks, and parking lots safe for all vehicles and pedestrians.

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5. Under emergency situations, there may be delays or cancellations of garbage collection and recycling pickup. Please do not call the Township during a snow emergency to ask about garbage collection. Until the snow situation is under control, it is impossible to say when garbage collection will be back on schedule. Check Cable 7 or the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org for information on garbage collection.

8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow. They are for your safety.

Public Works Snow Removal— How It Works

The Public Works Department is on call 24 hours a day to help residents with snow removal emergencies and related situations. During severe snow situations where plowing is needed, the main state and Township roads have priority, which in some cases require residential roadways to be designated secondary priority. Some considerations regarding the snow removal services that you receive as a resident of USC:

1. The Public Works Department must be alert to air temperatures and road surface temperatures. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective to about 23° fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°, road surfaces will require additions of liquid calcium

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6. The Township cannot recommend contractors or companies that provide 34

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

chloride. Traffic causes rock salt to act more quickly, so streets with heavier traffic will show the results of sodium chloride application sooner than less traveled roadways.

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2. Do not shovel or plow snow back into the streets. This is a violation of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and creates additional traffic safety problems.

2. Air Science Consultants are available to the Public Works Department on a 24-hour contracted basis and provide periodic advance weather forecasting. 3. Peak traffic occurs between the hours of 4-8 a.m. and 2-9 p.m. Decisions to delay school must be made by school administration by 5:30 a.m. to permit contacting School District personnel.

4. The Public Works Department mini mizes the use of chemicals and anti-skid materials by plowing whenever possible. Generally, accumulations over two inches with additional snow predicted may require plowing as dictated by tempera tures and information obtained from Air Science Consultants.

5. Constant monitoring of road conditions helps the Public Works administration coordinate snow removal actions to ensure total roadway coverage. All snow removal vehicle drivers assist and back each other up to ensure effective roadway salting and plowing.

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6. Walks should be clear by 8 a.m. at the Township Building and tennis bubbles. The Recreation Center schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities.Evenings require walk clearing for the Township Building Library until 9:30 p.m. and for any scheduled meetings which normally run until 11 p.m. Tennis bubbles operate until 11 p.m. It may be necessary to call personnel for morning walkway clearing by 5:30 a.m. or 6 a.m. as dictated by the size of the back-up crew. 7. Excessive snow may require opening of inlets or location of fire plugs. 8. The Public Works supervisor coordinates with all drivers to ensure that vehicle breakdowns and problems are reported and scheduled, so that effective snow removal operations are not jeopardized. 9. On-call Public Works supervisors have access to four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Do Your Part Upper St. Clair Cardboard and Paper Recycling Program A volunteer group of USC residents have organized a Township-wide cardboard and paper recycling program. Donations are welcome. A donation jar will be available on site. When: Saturday, December 2, 8 a.m.-noon. Where: USC Public Works Parking Lot (corner of Truxton Road and McLaughlin Run Road). Items to be Collected: Corrugated cardboard, paper (not newsprint), magazines, catalogues, phone books, junk mail, shredded paper (sort with mixed paper), cereal boxes, tissue boxes, and household batteries (9v, AA, AAA, C, D). Please do not drop off newsprint. Continue to recycle newsprint at your curbside. Questions: Call 412-831-9000. 2006-07 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Thanksgiving Day 2006............ Friday, November 24, 2006 (Delayed one day) Week of Christmas 2006......................... Friday, December 29, 2006 (Delayed one day) Week of New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2007........................ Friday, January 5, 2007 (Delayed one day) Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collectionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Saturdays Collections will take place on the following Saturdays. Place your yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags and place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up.

November 11 November 18 December 2 Watch your mail for the 2007 Trash and Recycling Schedule.

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Annual EMS Subscription Drive The 2007 Tri-Community South EMS

annual subscription drive is underway. Subscription information has been mailed to every known occupied residence in the municipality. If you have not yet received this information, please contact the Tri-Community South EMS office at 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Your subscription to Tri-Community South EMS means that should you need medically necessary ambulance transportation, Tri-Community South EMS will accept reimbursement from your health care or other appropriate insurance carrier as payment in full for the services rendered, and you will not receive any direct bill for these services. Medicare generally pays about half of the billed costs, while other insurers may pay up to 80% of billed costs. Your subscription helps to make sure that Tri-Community South will continue to provide quality ambulance service when you need it, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Tri-Community South EMS is owned and operated by the Municipality of Bethel Park and the Townships of South Park and Upper St. Clair. Although it is a municipal agency, Tri-Community South EMS attempts to recover operating costs by billing for services and accepting insurance reimbursements and by conducting the annual subscription drive. If operating costs cannot be recovered by these means, the system must take money from municipal tax revenues to make up the shortfall. At present, the system is completely self-supporting and no municipal tax revenue is being used for EMS operation, nor does Tri-Community South receive any revenue from the so-called EMS Tax enacted in 2005 to replace the Occupational Privilege Tax.

Your subscription entitles you to medically necessary emergency ambulance service as often as needed anywhere in the Municipality of Bethel Park, South Park Township, and Upper St. Clair Township, and also in Mt. Lebanon Township, Dormont Borough, Castle Shannon Borough, Whitehall Borough, Green Tree Borough, Baldwin Township, Baldwin Borough, Pleasant Hills Borough, Brentwood Borough, Peters Township, Jefferson Hills Borough, and Scott Township. Your subscription covers all family members living at your home address and any guests or visitors at your home. Your subscription also covers pre-scheduled non-emergency ambulance service when medically necessary—when the service meets the requirements or guidelines of your health care insurance provider and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Your subscription covers medically necessary emergency and non-emergency ambulance service only. According to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the criteria for medical necessity for emergency ambulance service are that the service be “reasonable and necessary.” In addition, for non-emergency ambulance service to qualify as “medically necessary,” the patient must need care or monitoring by trained attendants, the destination must be an approved medical facility, and the patient must be unable to walk, or must be stretcher bound and unable to be safely transported by other means such as wheelchair van, invalid coach, private vehicle, or commercial common carrier.

The following services are specifically designated by CMS as not being medically necessary: • Ambulance transportation provided solely for the convenience of the patient or family, or to accommodate a specific physician. • Ambulance transportation to obtain services which could be performed at the patient’s bedside or at the point of origin of the trip. • Ambulance transportation to a doctor’s office. • Ambulance transportation to a more distant facility, when a closer facility can appropriately provide the services required. Services for these reasons, or services that are not reasonable and necessary, are not covered by your subscription. 

S u b s c ribe N o w! Your subscription takes effect as soon as it is received and payment is accepted by Tri-Community South. It remains in effect through December 31, 2007, regardless of the date it is received. If you have any questions about your ambulance subscription or about Tri-Community South EMS and the services they provide, contact them at 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit their website at www.tcsems.org.

You are invited to participate in the

Township of Upper St. Clair’s Christmas Tree Recycling Project! Bring your tree, without decorations, to the YMCA upper parking lot between January 8–22, 2007. The trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use.

Please remove all plastic tree bags! For more information, call 412-831-9000, extension 271 or visit www.twpusc.org. 36

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

EMS Staff Members Appointed as AHA Leaders Tr i - C o m mu n i t y S o u t h EMS has grown into one of the

most active Training Centers for American Heart Association (AHA) Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) programs in the region. Annually, more than 6500 people are trained in ECC programs that are taught or supported by Tri-Community South’s Training Center. Paramedic Crew Chief John Brewer is the training center coordinator responsible for this growth. He is being reappointed as AHA Regional Faculty for BCLS, ACLS, and PALS emergency cardiac care programs. As regional faculty he serves as an expert resource on emergency cardiac care issues to health care providers, other training centers, AHA staff, and other instructors. Brewer’s appointment is for a two-year term. Additionally at Tri-Community South EMS, Supervisor of Support Services Phil Vargo has been appointed by the AHA National ECC Program Administration to chair Pennsylvania’s regional ECC committee. This region includes all

Bringing General Motors To The South Hills For 25 Years! of Pennsylvania except for the city of Philadelphia. As chair he is responsible for leading and implementing the ECC training programs in every community. He collaborates with AHA staff, provides leadership to the regional ECC committee and national faculty, and appoints regional faculty. Did you know that the leading cause of death in our community remains cardiovascular disease? Every member of our community must be able to recognize heart attack and stroke symptoms and the need to provide immediate CPR. n

Fire Station Wins Award The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department’s new station

on Route 19 was recently awarded first place in the Fire Chief Station Style Awards 2006. Sponsored by Fire Chief magazine, USCVFD’s station won in the volunteer division. Department president, Jerry Kopach, Jr., said the award was just icing on the cake. Design Stream Architects did a fabulous job on the building, and we’re glad their work got the recognition it deserved. Ched Mertz, president of the USC Board of Commissioners, remarked that the award was not unexpected. “The fire station is a necessary addition to the community, and its design fits in perfectly with the lifestyle and architecture in the Township,” stated Mertz. While Mertz is pleased with the new fire station, he said, “It’s the people who occupy the building, not the building itself, that make it great.” USC Township Manager Douglas Watkins echoed Mertz’s statements, commenting that the Township has a first class municipal fire department to protect its residents. n

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Winter 2006

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Dog Owners Please purchase a County license for dogs three months or older by January 1 every year. Applications are available at the Township reception desk. The fines can be up to $300 a day for each unlicensed dog.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

John S. Beachler, M.D. Robert J. Donofrio, M.D. Ph.D. Eric D. Nabors, M.D. Derrick J. Fluhme, M.D. Christopher M. Manning, M.D. David K. Mayer, C.R.N.P. Certified American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Office Hours by Appointment • Evening Hours Available

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Pet Owner’s

Responsibilities Many people who have contact with animals would agree

that pets provide a great deal of pleasure, whether they are your own or belong to a friend, relative, or neighbor. Although most pet owners are responsible, the job of owning an animal extends beyond providing food, water, and shelter. Pet owners must take into consideration their neighborhood and the community in general. The most common complaints about animals involve a resident who fails to follow ordinance requirements such as permitting an animal to roam unattended, to bark excessively, or who owns more than three adult pets. A less common complaint concerns owners permitting their pets to create unsanitary conditions on streets, sidewalks, or the yards of others. Residents, who allow their animals to behave in this manner, risk citations and potential fines. These can be avoided by simply extending common courtesy to others, which promotes community relations and deters more stringent animal regulations. Code requirements concerning animal control can be found on the Township website at www.twpusc.org. 

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Bows

Live Wreaths

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Fancy Fruits Poinsettias Branches Roping

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Christmas Trees 4’ to 12’

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Fir • Douglas Fir • Scotch Pine • White Pine • Blue Spruce • Con Color • Balled Trees

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Open House • Christmas DAY, URDAY & SUN FRIDAY, SAT NOVEMBER

3, 4 & 5

ideas, samplings, Holiday decoratingd special savings. cookie houses, an

ut • Ladies Night Oent!" Ev s ng vi Sa ay "Holid vember 9 Thursday, No - $5.00 admission 5:00PM to 8:00PM ay token, raffles,

Special discount 3-d nt and much more. me samplings, entertain and get all ful holiday displays Browse our beautishopping done early! of your

Tea • Holiday 11 - 12:00 NOON

SATURDAY, NOVEM

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- Closed Thanksg

Night • Light Up PM TO 8:00PM

6:00 , NOVEMBER 25 -the Christmas season

Help us kick off and help Santa light our ys browse our displal Christmas tree! specia

We Accept

W.I.C. Checks

h • Christmas Cas on ti p em Red 24

reath Booth • The Live Wnin g the week of will be up and runby or call to order November 20, stop and decorations. Christmas wreaths

nta Lunch with Sa 0PM 1:0 26 NOVEMBER ith Santa w h nc Lu kfast or

Brea

,16&17 DECEMBER 2,3,9,10 UNCH 1:00PM L or AM 0 9:0 ST AKFA right to

BRE We reserve the 5am) . Limited Seating. Call for reservation reservation number. (Arrive by 8:5lunch, or low on ed bas cancel as activity, breakfast istm Chr m) 55p or (Arrive by 12: h Santa, receive a goodie bag. talk wit

RU DECEMBER 9 TH

• Christmas Tea NOON

12:00 DECEMBER 16,

learance Sale • Christmas C HOURS: 8AM - 8PM DECEMBER 26,

S ms and 3W a • TrareaxparFtnear ring to bring you Sing AlongNN”ING “Christm,as NOVEMBER 21 AND RU

STARTING TUESDAY THROUGH DECEMBER 19. EVERY TUESDAY and singing

be coming Area schools will be here with the prize ll wi S 3W ls. ro ca ays. wheel and giveaw

Open Daily 9am - 8pm Sat 8am - 8pm • Sun 8am - 6pm

Route 88 between Library & Finleyville 412-835-3246 www.traxfarms.com Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Dashing Through the Snow Mary Lynne Spazok

A doll nestles warmly inside a converted perambulator. With wintry weather imminent, a young-

ster’s fascination with fresh ashen snow, crusty ice, and daring airborne speed comes alive. The ecstasy of the first blizzard entices daredevils with mischievous smiles to zoom sleek plastic torpedo-like rocket sleds down perilously slippery slopes. At home, holiday decorators seek out the iconic Flexible Flyer sled to embellish with fragrant evergreens, vivid berry red adornment, and sparkly ice skates. Sadly though, these treasures are relegated to storage for 11 months of the year. However, long before there were snowplows, snowboards, and snowmobiles, the 1800’s mode of winter amusement and transport was the authentic hardwood sled. Found in the sleepy rafters at Gilfillan Farm, first-rate antique examples with fanciful wrought iron adornment are what collectors dream of. Historically speaking, the Roman’s protective battle shield became an instant getaway—the sled. Fast forward, 1830 pioneers trudged through lofty drifts of ponderous snow with provisions, kindling, and dawdling tots. By 1861 though, a more modern, leisurely lifestyle allowed for personal amusement. At South Paris, Maine, entrepreneur Henry Morton handcrafted American beauties known as “Paris Sleds.” The aesthetic of wonderfully hewn sleds allowed boisterous young boys to belly flop on “clipper” styles whose front runners often formed a V-shape. Young ladies, on the other hand, desired couture rather than rough and tumble speed. Their “cutter” front runners were curled in a bow fashion topped off with elegant swan shaped finials. Hand painted “soldier blue” models were adorned with fanciful flowers and elegant birds. A natural wood finish painted with bright accents suited the boys who preferred manlier dog and equestrian motifs. Sled decks, for a tidy sum, were personalized with a name or portrait of a beloved 42

pet. Pleasing pastoral scenes covered 85% of the seating deck. The year 1879 was a sad time for discriminating connoisseurs. Manufactured by the Garton Toy Company, mass production of the cherry red Flexible Flyer exploded. In 1889, Samuel Allen of Westfield, New Jersey, patented a Flexible Flyer model whose newly designed T-shaped runners were driven with hands or feet. Generically decked-out centerboards cut production cost, which expanded mass marketing. Displays at the 1893 Columbian Exposition, with interactive demonstration, drew throngs of spectators. Years later in 1915, the trademark logo of the eagle, shield, and ribbon adorned thousands of sleds sold daily by Macy’s. To charm children and persuade Santas everywhere, clever entrepreneurs displayed miniature models of sleds, measuring 16 inches in length, as holiday decorum. Traveling salesmen carried nine-inch models to out-of-the-way locations. Sales soared! Sadly though, this largescale marketing blitz caused the downfall of exclusive hand-painted sled designs. The Victorian era embraced the genteel pastime of ice skating. Jazzy perambulators (rolling buggies) were transformed to ice sleds. Rubber wheels were replaced with readily available “off the shelf” iron runners. The interior leather seat was adjustable from back to front and could be reclined for napping or cargo space. Often, a brass plate from a prestigious furniture manufacturer such as HeywoodWakefield was attached boldly to the front for

Sydney Brown displays a beautifully painted clipper style sled.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Cutter style sled with cross bar

all to see; this secured faux status to the carriage. However, in terms of manufacture, there was no connection. Today, the aesthetics of vintage sleds, especially miniatures, cause collection frenzy. Secure your pocketbook. For $233,000, Christies Auction House recently sold an exceptional pristine vintage. Other models command upwards of $500. Held in New York City, the January American Antiques Show is a first-class resource. On the road, the infamous Route 1 in Maine along with Bucks County, Pennsylvania, are treasure troves of undiscovered finds. Closer to home, sleds with original paint and documentation, at a price of $200, were seen at the Monongalia Antique Show held each spring in Morgantown, West Virginia. In our neighborhood, Gilfillan Farm boasts fine examples of a restored cutter, clipper, and converted perambulator (on loan). The clipper style does not boast a cross bar between the front runners. The cutter style does have a cross bar to re-enforce, for instance, decorative swans. The Avant-garde red converted perambulator, with a coordinating wool plaid blanket (see top left photo), assures admiration and envy by all. As fall fades into winter, a tumultuous winter wonderland is every child’s castle in the sky. Skiing, snowboarding, and modern day sledding provide endless hours of blissful exuberance. Gilfillan Farm winters rejoice in fresh ashen snow, dangling icicles, and the more sedentary art of 1800’s sledding. n Side note: There is no formal holiday open house scheduled for 2006 for Gilfillan Farm. Plan ahead, Saturday, May 19, 2007, is Upper St. Clair Community Day. That day, you are invited to view the sleds and buggies at the Gilfillan transportation garage.

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Birdfeeding—a Sport for the Whole Family Knox Brown IV, Owner, Wild Birds Unlimited Attracting and feeding wild birds has become a favorite backyard

activity throughout North America. In fact, backyard birdfeeding is ranked second in popularity to gardening as an outdoor hobby. Why the interest in attracting and feeding wild birds? They enrich our lives by allowing us to share in theirs. Daily, we see their vibrant colors and hear their beautiful songs. We take great pride in being able to identify different birds by size, shape, and markings. Watching bird behavior can help us learn more about and appreciate the private lives of birds while bringing us closer to the amazing wonders of nature. Fall begins the time of increased activity for birdfeeding. As the outside temperature gets cooler, many of the songbirds that blend their diet between insects and seed now rely for the most part on seed. Feeding birds doesn’t have to be difficult, but it can be confusing. Two of the variables that can baffle the beginner are seed and feeders. There are many types of seed you can offer wild birds. Knowing the feeding preferences of the birds in your area will help you choose the right seed for the species of birds you want to attract. Offering quality seed to the wild birds is a must! With discount seed blends, you could be filling your birdfeeder with up to 75% cereal grain fillers (milo, oats, wheat, barley, and flax) birds don’t like to eat. The birds will kick the grain fillers to the ground, creating a mess. Black oil sunflower is the birdfeeding standard. Virtually all seed-eating birds eat it. You can’t go wrong with black oil or better yet, a blend made from 100% edible seed

that is rich in oil and also contains other quality seed, such as striped sunflower, safflower, and peanuts. Nyjer is a magnet for goldfinch and mealworms are irresistible for bluebirds. Peanuts are the birdfeeding secret. Blue jays and titmice are especially fond of peanuts in the shell. Titmice, chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and jays love shelled peanuts. (Squirrels love both types!) Bird feeders come in a mind boggling number of different shapes, sizes, colors, and styles and vary in price, quality, and functionality. The beginner is wise to start with a tube feeder. They are easy to fill, hang, and clean. This feeder will attract most of your songbirds. A hopper-style feeder is a good second choice. This feeder has more surface area for the birds to perch and will permit access to all birds including the cardinal and blue jay. As you expand your feeding station, a nyjer feeder for the goldfinch and a suet feeder for the woodpeckers will add to the variety of birds that will entertain you in your yard. Are you looking for a product that is good for the environment as well as the birds? Bird feeders are now being made from recycled milk jugs. These popular feeders are extremely durable, easy to clean, and will not split, fade, or rot. Lastly, if squirrels are a problem, a baffle can be added to save money on seed and let the song birds eat peacefully. Backyard birdfeeding is a hobby that offers the whole family an abundance of variety, surprises, rewards, and beauty. So, turn off the television, go buy a feeder and some quality bird seed, and enjoy nature! n Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

P INEBRIDGE Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road Come by and see what’s new ••••••••••••••••• Carlson Wagonlit Travel Cathy Davin Interior Design Design Image Salon Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc. Forest Ridge Land Co. Peter Gialames & Associates Henderson Investment Corp. Jimcor Associates, Inc. Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Larry E. Manalo, DMD Pediatric Alliance

Pediatric Dentistry South Piccolina’s Restaurant Primary Physicians Research Questa Petroleum Co. REFCO Eric J. Reitz DMD & Gary J. Yanniello, DMD South Hills Financial Group State Farm Insurance Suburban Dry Cleaners Weidmann Technical Services Pinebridge Commons Associates

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An Island Escape What’s on your mind this time of year? Going somewhere sunny

and warm! Now is the time to plan a winter vacation. At the easternmost shores of the Dominican Republic lies Punta Cana, the heart of some of the best beaches in the world. Punta Cana offers everything you’re looking for in a beach vacation. You can escape to a tropical paradise where refreshing breezes blow, turquoise waters sparkle, and stunning sunsets soothe your soul. The weather remains tropical year round, with an average high of 87 degrees and the average low of 72. Punta Cana, the major resort area in the Dominican Republic, offers several professional golf courses, casinos, luxurious resorts and spas, and, of course, beautiful beaches! The calm tranquil beaches are perfect for enjoying windsurfing and diving. Tourist attractions abound, including Manati Park theme park, offering horse, parrot, dolphin, and sea lion shows. It also offers an experience of a lifetime—a swim with the dolphins! Other “must see” attractions include an outback safari, a tour of Santo Domingo, and Saona Island. The natural pool waters of Saona Island are shallow and warm. You’ll have the perfect opportunity to swim and take pictures of huge starfish—many of them are around! Punta Cana is made up mostly of large all-inclusive resorts populated by couples and families, with most resorts focusing on family entertainment. While the nightlife inside the resorts is quite lively, you will also find several small plazas and discotheques that allow tourists to mingle with the locals. Forming part of the Coconut Coast, many resorts feature walking paths through coconut mangroves complete with wildlife and

Sigrid Kiernan

natural springs. Did you know that no resort in Punta Cana is higher than the highest palm tree? Punta Cana’s newest resort, the Paradisus Palma Real (a Sol Melia luxury all-inclusive hotel), has achieved much success since opening last December. The hotel is an architectural masterpiece with a white sandy beach shaded by coconut palms and protected by a barrier reef. The hotel’s entrance discloses a view of large fountains, a gigantic pool, and the sea beyond. It has only one meal plan option—all inclusive! All meals, tips, drinks, and taxes are included. You can taste food from all over the world at one of its seven restaurants. Each room comes with a Jacuzzi for two, allowing you to relax in the privacy of your own space. Entertaining guests is a top priority at all Sol Melia hotels and resorts. You will find experienced entertainers to amuse you from morning ’til night! If you’re thinking of a beach ceremonial wedding, it can be arranged in Punta Cana. Several hotels offer all-inclusive weddings where you can focus on each other and make your dreams come true. Everything you are looking for in a vacation can be found in Punta Cana, a heaven to the tourist industry. n For more information contact Joseph and Sigrid Kiernan, co-owners of Carlson Wagonlit Travel in USC’s Pinebridge Commons. Carlson Wagonlit provides quality service, expertise, and knowledge in the “specialty travel area.” Joseph or Sigrid can be reached at 412-221-6772 or at cwtusc@aol.com.

Winter 2006 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 4545 Winter 2006 ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair School District

School District News

Board of School Directors

William M. Sulkowski President 412-221-9516 2009*

Mark G. Trombetta Vice President 412-831-8543 2007*

Glenn G. Groninger 412-854-5345 2007*

Daniel A. Iracki 412-833-6882 2009*

David E. Bluey 412-835-6145 2009*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2007*

Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*

Angela B. Petersen Jeffrey W. Joyce 412-831-7182 412-257-1704 2007* 2007* *Date indicates expiration of term.

Bill Sulkowski

President, Upper St. Clair School Board Dr. William M. (Bill) Sulkowski

and his family have called Upper St. Clair home since 1979. A dentist with a practice in Canonsburg, Bill grew up in Canonsburg and graduated from Canon-McMillan High School. He continued his education at the University of Pittsburgh, receiving his BA in predental, and his DMD from the School of Dental Medicine. While in college Bill played center for Pitt’s basketball team. Bill first served on USC’s school board from 1999-2003, was again elected to the board in 2005, and currently serves as board president. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY had a chance to speak with Bill, and we’re please to share our conversation with our readers. Why did you run for school board and what are your goals in that capacity? We started a process of being more accountable during my first term on the board, and I saw an opportunity to move the District forward in a fiscally responsible manner while still maintaining the academic excellence we’re known for. We’re well into our stated goals of a balanced budget for 2006 and 2007 with no tax increase, and have set the foundation for 2007 and 2008. We’ve been able to satisfy the needs of the District without raising taxes. We’ve had more accountability and openness—filming business meetings, providing a synopsis of what transpired each month, and putting more information on the District’s website. We’re looking for ways to increase revenue

46 ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006 46 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

without raising taxes, and we hired a fundraising company to look for new funding sources at no cost to the District. We’re getting community members involved in advisory committees regarding the budget, mission statement, and tax structure. We’ve increased the number of AP classes and decreased class size at the elementary school level. Who has been the biggest influence in your life? My father, an educator, and my uncle, a dentist, both Pitt grads, were my role models. They gave me a lot of support and direction. My mother was also a great influence in my life. She provided the stability and family environment that gave me the security to succeed. What activities and hobbies do you enjoy? I like athletics, especially swimming and walking. I like old cars and I have an old MG and a ’53 Kaiser. I like riding my Harley-Davidson motorcycle and spend time taking bike trips to many national parks. Anything else you’d like the residents to know? We have a great community and great community involvement. People are paying much closer attention to government and that attention is good for the community. The viability of our community depends on a stable taxing environment—we don’t want to chase seniors and those without kids in school out of our District. I’ve heard a lot of positive comments from the community about our initiatives. We’ll continue to make the District better. What’s your dream vacation? Any vacation with my family—my wife, Patricia, and children, Alex and Leigh. n

District Welcomes Frosina Cordisco as Finance Director Frosina Cordisco joins the District

as new Director of Business and Finance, replacing Jane Sierzega. Frosina earned both her bachelor of science in economics and mathematics and her MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. Her business experience is extensive and includes president of FCC Consulting, LLC, vice president of finance and CFO of VEC Technology, LLC, and vice president and treasurer of DQE and Duquesne Light Company. Frosina is also an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh where she teaches finance and management, and serves on the board of trustees of the Pittsburgh Public Theatre. A resident of Upper St. Clair since 1979, Frosina is looking forward to making a meaningful contribution to the community, and expects her experiences in the private sector and teaching at the University of Pittsburgh to serve her well in her new position. Frosina has two children: Christopher Damish, 25, who currently lives in Washington, DC, and Nicole Damish, a senior finance major at the University of Kentucky. In addition to a love of cooking, Frosina enjoys skiing, being outdoors, and traveling. n

New Job for Dr. Lombardo Dr. James Lombardo, Superintendent

of Schools, will soon be leaving Upper St. Clair to take a position with the Bensalem School District. Dr. Lombardo has been with USC for just over three years, but the initiatives implemented under his direction should have a positive impact for years to come. While Dr. Lombardo joked that the biggest challenge for a superintendent at Upper St. Clair is “not messing things up,” he took steps to improve on what was already in place. He focused on themes—such as supervisor evaluation and assessment, health and wellness, class size, and communications—and created committees to develop goals and action plans for each. Some of the results from these committees include reduced elementary school class size, community forums on drug and alcohol use, and updated technology. One initiative that Dr. Lombardo expects to continue long after he’s gone is the Asian studies program, stating that there are great people in place at the high school to provide leadership for it. As Dr. Lombardo prepares to leave what he calls one of the “top school districts in the state” he is beginning to look at the challenges that face him at Bensalem, a district located in the suburbs north of Philadelphia. He described the district with its approximately 7000 students as very different than that of Upper St. Clair, stating that it is more diverse both ethnically and socio-economically. He explained that the average income in the Bensalem district is $50,000 and only about 50% of that district’s students are meeting PSSA standard, so he’ll be working to significantly improve performance over the next few years. “It’s a different kind of approach,” said Dr. Lombardo, “but it will be exciting to serve a much needier people.” n

Welcome our new hires to the District for the 2006-07 school year.

Hail

Baker: Lauren Greco (also at Eisenhower), Kristin Senay Eisenhower: Kellie Costello, Eric Miller, Kerry Strauch Streams: Sherri Pargament, Leslie Phillips Smirniw Boyce: Lauren Gates, Justin Gremba, Abdelkader Khila, Jason O’Roark, Robert Sully Fort Couch: Richard Ali, Andrew Lucas, Erin Peterson High School: Kevin Coffman, Ben Edwards, Jean Gigliotti, Giulia Gouker, Emily Robbibaro, Katie Ryan, Dana Sussman, David Watson Homebound Instruction: Jenna Greco Administrative (Central Office): Scott Holtkamp, Todd West

Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service.

Farewell

Professional: Joan Descalzi, Cindy Golding, Dee Hamel, Sam Hazo, Kate Junker, Joan Kerlin, Jim Lydon, Florine Masciantonio, Noreen Pikutis, Jodi Ramsay, Judy Reilly, Jim Smoyer, Collette Sullivan Classified: John Harrison, Catherine Pigford, Rocco Totino Administrative Support: Alex Dombroski, Phyllis Feller

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

2006 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame The 18 newest members of USCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Halls of Fames were honored on Friday, September 29 at the seventh annual Halls of Fame induction ceremony. The energized crowd, gathered for the football match up of Upper St. Clair against Baldwin, cheered for each inductee as they were individually recognized during pre-game activities. It is with great pride that we recognize the inductees of the 2006 Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame.

Academic Hall of Fame

Photo by Kris Jenkins

Academic Hall of Fame, left to right: Scott Hahn, David Lind, Paul Schlachter, Susan Hughes, Cheryl Bruno Gamber, Edward Callahan. Not pictured: Joseph Buggy, Catherine Moraytis Ulicny.

Arts Hall of Fame

Photo by Kris Jenkins

Arts Hall of Fame, left to right: Jim Bennett (Arts Hall of Fame Committee Chair), Shari Shriver Opfermann, Dwight Kennedy, David Lander, Susan Forry Locke, Jessica Spencer. Inset photo: Karen Sommer Turnbull. Not pictured: Rick Valicenti.

Athletic Hall of Fame Photo by M&M Photography

Athletic Hall of Fame, left to right: Gary DePalma, Zach Ellis, Phil Dunn 48

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Ghilani Named High School Principal

Dr. Mike Ghilani–new USCHS principal

When Dr. Mike Ghilani reported for work on August 22 he had a new

title—principal of Upper St. Clair High School. Dr. Ghilani started his career with the District in 2001 as USCHS assistant principal. Before working in Upper St. Clair, he spent two years at Plum High School as both school counselor and director of alternative education. He also taught AP psychology during the day and social studies for the alternative education program in the evening. Dr. Ghilani laughingly commented that he usually didn’t leave before six or seven each night.

Dr. Ghilani received his BA from Washington and Jefferson, where he majored in psychology and minored in education and business, and was certified to teach social studies. He earned his M.Ed. in school counseling from the University of Pittsburgh, and D.Ed. in supervision from Duquesne. Dr. Ghilani received his principal’s certification and certificate in educational leadership from Carnegie Mellon University. Keeping Upper St. Clair High School number one is Dr. Ghilani’s objective as principal. His goal is for the high school to be the first in the state to achieve 100% proficiency in achievement tests. Dr. Ghilani said one thing he is looking forward to as principal is being able to carry out his initiatives, stating it’s easier to implement ideas when you’re the principal. While Dr. Ghilani doesn’t have a lot of free time, he works out and lifts weights, and enjoys hunting and fishing. He practices yoga with his wife of eight years, Dana. While he won’t be teaching this fall, Dr. Ghilani is an adjunct professor at California University of Pennsylvania, and usually teaches one class each semester in the university’s counselor education program. n

2006 Upper St. Clair High School

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Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints: A USC PTA Council Highlight of Our Schools The USC PTA Council, the umbrella PTA organization in

Upper St. Clair, provides leadership and coordination for all the PTAs at the individual schools (units), grades K through eight. This year, Council is focusing on improving Internet communications and expanding PTA membership through the new campaign— “Support PTA’s Race to the Future… Together we are Driving the Road to Success.” If you haven’t already joined, it’s not too late! Contact Jennifer Schuler at 412-835-5553 and join today. USC PTA Council is responsible for the District-wide directory and Internet communications, among other things. By pooling resources, Council can provide better quality programming that addresses issues in parenting, education, and special needs through the Together in Parenting (TIP), Topics in Education (TIE), Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), and Partners in Education (PIE). Look for these programs throughout the school year. In addition, through various committees, Council keeps the local units apprised of legislative and current issues relative to the health, safety, and education of our children.

“TIP… providing support and education concerning difficult parenting issues” Please attend the upcoming TIP presentation on Internet Safety Thursday, November 16 at 9:30 a.m. in the Fort Couch LGI room. Contact Stacie de la Parra at 412-833-2366 or Kim Frenette at 412-851-1709 with questions.

High School This school year started off with a newness in the air, as the High School welcomed a new principal, new assistant principal, new teachers, and lots of new families! The PTSO worked hard all summer to prepare the New family tailgate dinner at USCHS many volunteers for the tasks ahead. The invaluable District-wide directory was put together, there were bulk mailing parties, and planning for all the student events. First and foremost, this year’s senior class enjoyed the much anticipated Senior Cruise. As always, this event on the Gateway Clipper was a blast. In late September, Open House dazed many parents as they listened to teachers divulge a typical day and literally ran their kids schedules in record time. No wonder our kids are so tired at the end of the day! The PTSO, along with PTA Council, hosted new families to the District with a delicious tailgate dinner for USC’s first 50

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

football game. From the first game to Homecoming, fans have been Panther crazy! Parents of the USCHS junior class hosted the Homecoming festivities. Well-dressed couples, music, and dancing made for a fun evening. Thanks to everyone who made so much happen in just a few months. Time flies and Kennywood Day will be here before we know it, but there’s still plenty of time to get involved at the high school. Come to the PTSO meetings, held the third Wednesday of each month (except December), to find out what you can become part of.

Fort Couch Do you remember your first day of seventh or eighth grade? Fort Couch Middle School students were also filled with mixed emotions as they began their first day on August 30. Some were new to a four-team teacher approach; Fort Couch students find their lockers others were glad to on the first day of school. see familiar faces of friends and staff. Principal Joe DeMar and Assistant Principal John Rozzo introduced themselves to the incoming students as they learned their room locations, locker assignments, and became acclimated to school and scheduling. Many opportunities (such as student council, fall team sports, chorus, orchestra, band, and other clubs and activities) presented themselves the first few months of the school year for the students to get involved. Teams were encouraged to participate in Reach Out, a fundraiser co-sponsored by Student Council. The donations go to needy families in the South Hills area, and also to various charities including the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the MS Bike-a-thon. Student Council also benefits from the profits of ink recycling and Box Top collections. Fort Couch is not only a place for students to meet new friends; parent involvement is encouraged. Come to a PTA meeting, help out on a committee, or join in on a student field trip—just volunteer your time and talents when you can. The PTA sponsors many student activities including Caught You Being Good, evening socials, receptions for team sports, chorus, band, and orchestra, and the fall open house. PTA also provides a bookstore for students to purchase school supplies during lunch hour.

Boyce The school year enjoyed a great beginning at Boyce’s Breakfast with the Teachers event. Students introduced their parents to their teachers for a brief chat and then joined friends for a light breakfast. The students were well on their way to becoming more

Baker In September, Baker Elementary’s Fall Open House offered students and parents the opportunity to visit school classrooms and meet new teachers. The sale of USC Spirit wear and the Scholastic Book Fair added to the excitement of the event. October brought the Fall Hoe Down and the chance for fourth level students to celebrate the beginning of fall and socialize with their peers outside the classroom. Baker’s annual Bingo Night is scheduled for November 11. Baker parents and students are looking forward to the camaraderie and prizes that come with this night. The holiday season kicks off in December with the Enchanted Shop, followed by the Seducki Puppet show and the winter choral concert. Upon returning from winter break in January, the students will have the opportunity to participate in Baker’s third annual Read-In. This year’s Read-In has a global theme that highlights different countries and cultures throughout the world. February brings the Baker Caper, the school’s biggest fundraiser, and a terrific way for everyone to escape the mid-winter blues.

Eisenhower The PTA family at Eisenhower Elementary started off the school year with a welcome breakfast for all kindergarten students and other new families to the school. Later in the month, the Scholastic Book Fair was

held in conjunction with Eisenhower’s Open House. Eisenhower closed out the month of September with another breakfast as students from the fourth level invited their parents to join them for breakfast and fellowship at the start of the school day. The PTA’s largest fundraiser of the year, the Eisenhowler was held on October 6. Students and their families were treated to an evening of fun, games, food, raffles, and door prizes. Funds raised from this event support many PTA functions as well as provide for field trips, supplies, and special purchases that benefit all Eisenhower students. This month brings the second grade social and the first grade breakfast. The Holiday Mart is scheduled for December and several exciting family events are planned for the upcoming winter months. There’s always something great happening at Eisenhower!

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Streams Streams Elementary recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. The Streams family marked the occasion with the construction of a beautiful butterfly garden and outdoor classroom slated to open this coming spring. In keeping with tradition, Streams produced an anniversary cookbook filled with recipes from students, parents, teachers, and administrators. To order your copy, contact Tracie Degnan at 412-854-1305. Proceeds from the sale will help fund the Streams garden and classroom projects. Many anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the school year, including the opening of the Streams time capsule and the creation of a new time capsule to “send” into the future. Along with Streams’ anniversary celebrations, the PTA sponsored many events including the new family welcome tour, Open House, Streams Stravaganza (the school’s annual carnival), and harvest parties and parade. n

Questions about PTA or PTSO? Call Carol Murray (PTA) 412-221-6878 or Darenda Lease (PTSO) 412-854-4481.

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organized after they bought their Binder Reminders (the Boyce PTA version of a day planner) from the PTA during the first week of school. Boyce’s major annual fundraiser, the Sally Foster gift wrap sale, was a huge success thanks to the hard work of students, parents, and staff. The sale funds many of the hands-on learning experiences for the students throughout the year, including the Earthwarden Program (Deer Valley), Author’s Day, Science Extravaganza, NASA, and Civil War Days. Principal Karen Brown led the first Open Mike of the year, a question and answer exchange allowing parents to learn more about Boyce. Parents should plan to attend the next Open Mike scheduled for Thursday, November 16. Participation in PTA activities at Boyce is a good way for parents to continue their involvement in their child’s school life while they become increasingly more independent.

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Mathematics Teacher Extraordinaire Karen Brown, Boyce Middle School Principal Dr. John Bornyas, Director of Programming, Operations, and Middle Level Education Joanne Szymanski

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was a member of the Upper St. Clair teaching staff for 28 years. Joanne’s untimely death this past June came as a surprise to all of us on the Upper St. Clair staff. She was a trusted colleague and Joanne Szymanski friend, and her positive attitude and knowledge of the middle school will be greatly missed. She touched many of our lives, and her love of teaching will always be remembered. Joanne joined the USC professional staff in 1978 with her first assignment at Boyce Middle School. Before coming to USC, she taught one year at Neil Armstrong Middle School and a year at Independence Middle School, both in the Bethel Park School District. Joanne graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in May 1975 with a bachelor of science degree and an elementary education professional certificate. In 2004, when the Pennsylvania Department of Education created the middle level mathematics professional certificate, she received certification immediately. During her career, Joanne taught many different subjects. In 1990, Joanne moved from Boyce to Fort Couch Middle School with most of her teaching responsibilities in the area of mathematics. In 2003, she was appointed as the mathematics resource and gifted education teacher at Fort Couch. During her many years of teaching, Joanne taught thousands of students. She showed many students how to love the content she was teaching, especially mathematics, and to love learning. Joanne epitomized the outstanding middle level teacher. She exhibited the professional characteristics needed to guide students through the difficult years of early adolescence. Her ability to provide middle school students with structure and nurturing clearly characterized her interaction with them. This was not only true in the classroom, but also on the court or on the field. Over the years, Joanne coached middle school teams in basketball, volleyball, and track. Joanne also tutored many students who were struggling in mathematics. Many returned years later to thank her and recount how she got them through those difficult math courses. The students never forgot what

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

she had done for them, and she will always have a special place in their hearts. Joanne served on many District committees and as middle school mathematics curriculum leader. In the mid 80s, Joanne was instrumental in the District’s middle school reorganization program, serving on committees and as the mathematics department head at Boyce. In her position as the mathematics curriculum leader, she was instrumental in helping adopt a new textbook series in the fifth through eighth levels mathematics program. In 1993, Joanne was appointed to the Pennsylvania Assessment System Mathematics Advisory Committee. She also was a certified teacher trainer for the International Baccalaureate Organization’s Middle Years Program. Her focus area was mathematics, and Joanne’s leadership helped many other teachers learn the skills necessary for quality mathematics instruction. Joanne also was active in the Upper St. Clair Education Association and served as the middle school vice president. Probably the most significant benefit that her students received were experiences that changed Joanne as she traveled through life as a “life-long learner.” Joanne was always traveling, living life to its fullest, and learning from it. Whether it was her travels to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, areas of the United States, or places in Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh area, Joanne learned from these adventures and shared them with her students to help make learning relevant and meaningful to them. As with many outstanding educators, Joanne was very private about her work with her students and how much she meant to so many of them. Joanne’s mother has made a special request that those students who had Joanne as a teacher share their experiences with the family. This can be done by an electronic condolence card at www.legacy.com/postgazette/Obituaries. asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=183007. n To honor her memory and the professional career of Ms. Joanne Szymanski, a scholarship fund has been established in her name. Tax deductible contributions to the Joanne Szymanski Scholarship Fund can be made payable to and sent to: The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, 2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. Please identify “the Joanne Szymanski Scholarship Fund” on the memo line.

USC Elementary Students Explore the World Online Dr. Judy Bulazo, Director of Professional Development and Elementary Education (K-4) It’s a dark, snowy night. You’re fin-

ished with the many daily chauffeuring duties, dinner, and dishes. It’s finally time to relax, when your son or daughter comes up to you. “Umm… I have a report due.” “When?” you ask, with a sinking feeling in your stomach. You think you already know the answer. “Tomorrow,” your child says helpfully. The library and bookstores are closed for the night, and sifting through all the advertisements—adult and irrelevant information you’d get by googling—could take hours. What do you do? Fortunately, USC elementary parents can now turn to their family computers and access two helpful resources—World Book Online Reference Center and Access PA Power Library. The District recently purchased a subscription to World Book Online Reference Center. This database is produced by the same company that produces the well-known, authoritative World Book Encyclopedia that you may remember from your own school days. In addition to printed articles, streaming videos, photos, and 360-degree views are included with many of the entries. The content includes NASA, Behind the Headlines, Surf the Ages, Today in History, an atlas, dictionary, and magazine articles from Ebsco. Some entries include links to other websites that World Book editors have found to contain useful information on the subject. This wonderful resource is continually updated and can be accessed at any home by following the simple steps listed below: 1. Type www.worldbookonline.com in your web browser window. 2. Enter this log-in ID: uscsd 3. Enter this password: panther 4. Click on “Go” 5. Click on the yellow “Search” tab. 6. Enter your word search terms and click “Go.” You may also search using the “Search for a word or phrase,” “Browse,” or “Boolean phrase” options under this tab.

By clicking on the other tabs, you are able to access maps (atlas), look up words (dictionary), and explore a wealth of information on our home state (Pennsylvania resources).

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One very useful fact you probably won’t find on World Book is how to access the other wonderful reference source available to our students and families—Access PA Power Library. To log onto the Access PA Power Library, you will need a library card from the Upper St. Clair Township Library. Then to log on, follow the steps listed below: 1. Go to www.twpusc.org/library/index.html 2. Click “Online Databases” (right side of screen). 3. Click the “Access PA Power Library” link. 4. Enter the barcode from your Township library card. If you need a password, use the last four digits of your phone number.

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This collection of 35 databases covers a wide range of subjects and is available to every library cardholder in the Commonwealth at no charge. Popular research databases for elementary level students include: Ebsco animals, Primary Search, Facts for Learning, Kid’s Search/Searchasaurus and SIRS Discoverer. Middle and high school students can benefit from Student Research Center and LitFinder. There are also databases that appeal to adults, such as Business Source, Health Source, Consumer, Novelist, and Automotive Repair reference centers. So next time your child has a paper due, or you need some up-to-date information, rest easy knowing that there are some quality resources you can access without leaving the house! n Winter 2006

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Elementary Curriculum News— Core Academic Subjects All elementary areas continue to focus on the District’s goal of refining assessment practices and data-based instructional decision making. All USC students have access to World Book Online Reference Center both at school and home. • USC School District purchased a subscription to World Book Online Reference Center (a database of information produced by the well-known World Book Encyclopedia). See page 53 for article. • Includes access to printed articles, streaming videos, photos, 360-degree views of items and places, an atlas, dictionary, and magazine articles.

modification and use in all classrooms. • Approach will enhance the already strong emphasis on the writing process and writing in the content areas. • Approach emphasizes ideas, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, conventions, and an optional presentation trait. • Model is based on the research of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory in Portland, Oregon.

Kindergarten Literacy

Implementation of a new Kindergarten Literacy program. • Provides frequent, explicit, and systematic instruction and practice with phonological awareness skills as recommended by the National Reading Panel Report (2000). Attainment of phonemic awareness has been identified as the primary indicator for later reading success. • Phonics development, writing opportunities, and comprehension are also represented. • Program allows for small group instruction to provide differentiated learning experiences. • The program aligns with the newly released Pennsylvania standards for kindergarten. • Parent informational sessions were held this fall.

Students use World Book Online reference center. 54

Piloted Six-Traits Writing Approach

Read Naturally pilot program

Pilot of Read Naturally, intervention for students in grades two through four who are experiencing difficulty with fluency—reading with expression, smoothness, and at a good rate. • Fluency is an essential link between word analysis and comprehension of text and is considered a necessary tool for learning from reading. Students who have to analyze and consciously decode so many words and invest so much of their cognitive resources in word decoding do not have much left for making sense of a passage. Pilot elements of the Six-Traits Writing Approach in identified first through fourth grade classrooms. • If the pilot is successful, a recommendation will be made for curriculum

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Use of Investigative Science Notebook in all kindergarten through grade four elementary science classrooms. • Effective tools in helping students to see an organized linear progression of their scientific thinking. • Provide excellent sources for tracking student growth and assessment of their learning.

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• Research data on the use of Investigative Science Notebooks in elementary programs support improved student academic performance in the following areas: - Integration of reading and writing in the content areas. - Student-to-teacher communication. - Student-to-parent communication. - Higher level questioning, thinking, and reflection. Implement Mastering Math Facts-Rocket Math program as an enhancement to our math program to strengthen automaticity and fluency of the first through fourth level student in the four basic mathematical operations. • Piloted last year with good results. • Computational fluency is emphasized in the Pennsylvania math standards as well as national math standards. • Automatic recall of facts is important to learning higher level math. • Provides the opportunity for students to work at a pace and level that is both challenging and success-oriented. Adopt Math Essentials Grade Four to enhance the fourth level geography unit. • Culmination of a planned grade one through four geography strand update completed over the past five years. • Balance of skill building, problem solving, and higher-order thinking skills. • Provides students with another opportunity to interact with expository text. • Address USC and Pennsylvania academic standards for geography. n

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The Changing Face of Fort Couch Joe DeMar, Fort Couch Principal; John Rozzo, Fort Couch Assistant Principal Schools across the country continue to face curriculum, personnel, and instructional changes, and Fort Couch Middle School is no exception. Over the past two years, a variety of changes have taken place. Fort Couch has added 15 new faces to the administrative and teaching teams. These team members play an integral role in curriculum and instruction changes. While Fort Couch continues to be highly ranked in academic achievement, the administration also realizes the need to continue to challenge students by implementing rigorous curricular and instructional changes. Curriculum has been revised in various academic areas, specifically mathematics and language arts. Instructionally, the initiative is to provide more differentiation within the classroom. Thus, all students will have numerous opportunities to meet with success. Additionally, staff members spend a great deal of time using student data to drive instructional initiatives. This practice will allow Fort Couch to better meet the needs of the individual child. All changes which occur at Fort Couch Middle School are made with the students’ best interest in mind. The school maintains an environment that fosters the academic, social, and emotional development

Left to right are Joe DeMar, principal; Lisa Cain, physical education teacher; and Matoula Rice, head secretary

of each student. The ultimate goal is to provide multiple learning opportunities to develop a well-rounded child. Although the faces, curriculum, and instruction may change, the goal always remains the same. Fort Couch Middle School is a great place to learn! n

Market Square—With Flair Avisha Shah, Fort Couch Eighth Grader Can you imagine

Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh becoming an international food gallery with an entertainment center for people of all ages? These are a few plans that my team envisioned for the Downtown Avisha Shah Vibrancy Project. During the week of July 26, 32 eighth graders, each representing one school district in Allegheny County, conceived different ideas to improve the Market Square area in downtown Pittsburgh. It was extremely exciting for me when I was chosen to represent Upper St. Clair. We met at Point Park University with instructor Dr. Joan Kiel each day. We were divided into five groups and thought of group names such as the X-ing Peds and Free Parking. My group’s name was the Three Riverhounds. We attended several lectures with many city officials, Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato, and the late Mayor Bob O’Connor. Globalization is taking place all around the world. Cities are moving forward in technology and appearance. Pittsburgh cannot be left behind. I believe that an important factor in bringing our city to the top is Market Square. When most people think of Market Square, they picture rundown buildings with vacant upper floors, 56

overflowing trash cans, littered, unleveled streets, pigeons, hard marble seating, and trees growing in stones and mulch. This picture should be the Market Square of the past, not of the future. I would like people to say, “Market Square… wow!” Over the course of the project, we explored Market Square and developed ideas to improve it, then prepared and presented a PowerPoint® presentation to the press. My group envisioned transforming Market Square into the heart of the city—lively and energetic. To me, it doesn’t matter if you live in the downtown area or not; Market Square should be a must-see place in Pittsburgh. We wanted our changes to appeal to people of all ages, so we discussed what people like to do most—eat! Our first thought was to transform Market Square into an international food gallery, full of ethnic stalls and restaurants, each representing a different country from around the world. We would also hold a nationality fair every three months. Then we thought, “Will people really be attracted only by restaurants?” We realized we needed to create more things to draw people in and the area needs to be pedestrian friendly and accessible to all. Once a month certain groups of people could get a discount to shops and restaurants—senior citizens’ day, or children’s day, for example. My group also thought general appearance improvements are necessary—adding

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

benches, fountains, flowers, and lights. The marble should be cleaned, unsightly graffiti removed, old buildings refurbished, and the current, uneven cobblestone roads leveled. To give Market Square a park-like feeling, vehicles should be banned. Concerts should be held during lunch hours on weekdays and weekend evenings. A place for people to dance, caricature artists, magicians, balloon artists, and more should provide further entertainment. My group’s mission to help people enjoy their experience at Market Square and to make them want to come back can be accomplished in many ways. We could add a plasma TV message board (which would show upcoming events in the downtown area), and we could create a Pittsburgh souvenir shop as well. Safety is important, and I think that an adequate staff of security officers should patrol the area. Our group also thought about building an elegant revolving restaurant directly on top of the river. My experience was great. I learned a lot about Pittsburgh, and had a lot of fun doing it. This program was possible because of Hilda Fu, the director of the program; Dr. Joan Kiel, our instructor; Carol Brinjak; and the Heinz Endowments, which funded the program and contributed $15,000. Hopefully our groups’ Pittsburgh development ideas will be integrated. I would love to be invited back to the program again next year! n

All Teachers are Reading Teachers

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John Bornyas, Ed.D., Director of Programming, Operations, and Middle Level Education Increasing literacy skills has always been

a major focus of the District’s middle school interdisciplinary program. Success in this area can only be achieved when middle school teachers employ strategies to build reading comprehension across content areas. During the 2005-06 school year, this area of the middle school program was a major focus. Realizing that professional retirements in the District over the past three years have resulted in many recently hired teachers at the middle school level, an in-service program dealing with teaching reading strategies across all content areas was provided for all middle school teachers in November 2005. The in-service program included a review of the work completed by the National Reading Panel. Created by Congress in 1997, this panel was charged with the responsibility of assessing the effectiveness of different approaches used to teach reading. Although the results of the panel’s work and the final report released in 2000 were somewhat controversial, the evidence seems to support the conclusion that typical American middle level and high school curricula assumes that kids can successfully understand new information independently from their reading. This assumption is not necessarily completely true. Because of the increase of new technology, constant need for workers of the future to upgrade job skills, and the need to have the ability to deal with a world that generates new knowledge at a frightening pace, today’s students will need to use literacy skills more effectively than their counterparts of the past. Consequently, all teachers, not just elementary teachers, need to be reading teachers—helping the student to master vocabulary, reading for different purposes, reading different prose, and reading with multiple perspectives. Presentations on content comprehension, vocabulary enrichment, reading interaction, and reading interest strategies were developed and delivered to the middle school staffs by Jan Atutes, Shelley Desmond, Sam Gallaher, Eileen Sakoian, Chris Caragein, and Dianne Ecker. Karen Brown, Boyce Middle School principal, was the administrator who helped the teachers organize the program. At the end of the 2005-06 school year, staff was surveyed on their use of reading strategies. Teachers reported that their effectiveness in focusing on issues related to literacy and the reading skills of their students grew during the school year. The teachers also reported that they helped students construct meaning from context, integrated other print materials beyond the textbook into their curricula, used an assortment of texts ranging in format and difficulty level, and used graphic organizers to help their students build a frame of reference when new material was introduced. The teachers clearly demonstrated that they understand the importance that all teachers be reading teachers. n

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Selling USC!

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Whether it’s moving into a new house, starting a new job, or taking that first step onto a school bus, we are constantly facing changes that influence our normal routines. In the Upper St. Clair School District our students generally make five different transitions throughout their academic careers. Starting kindergarten, moving from elementary school to Boyce, moving from Boyce to Fort Couch, and graduating from the high school are obviously four of these important and necessary changes. Perhaps the most important transition, however, is the movement from Fort Couch to USCHS after the eighth grade year. The reasons for this are numerous. Academic pressure, peer relationships, getting involved in clubs, sports, and activities—these are issues that are not unique to high school students of Upper St. Clair. What is somewhat unique to USC high schoolers, however, is the tradition of excellence and high expectations that has been passed down from the success of generations of previous students. The culture and mindset that has been established over many years at our high school can produce conflicting emotions of confidence and doubt for an incoming freshman. Will I get good grades? Can I make a name for myself? How hard is it to get from class to class? Will I fit in? These are just some of the questions an eighth grade student may ask him or herself over the summer months leading up to the first day of freshman year. Research has consistently shown that one of the best indicators for future academic and life success is the ability for a high school freshman to assimilate into the academic and social cultures of their high school in an effort to develop a sense of identity and belonging. For most adults who are able to harken back to their teenage years, this endeavor was probably easier said than done. Now picture yourself as a current teen in an era of high technology, increased academic standards, and numerous other distractions that contemporary students must contend with on a daily basis. Today’s kids certainly have challenges that most adults never had to deal with. One way that the administration and counseling department at Upper St. Clair High School is attempting to further assist incoming freshmen in successfully making the transition from middle school to ninth grade is by proactively offering a new evening program to their parents. In mid-September two sessions of “Parenting 101: Navigating Your Teen Through the High School Years” were offered to parents and guardians of the freshman class. Unlike traditional orientation programs that offer a necessary nuts and bolts

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

synopsis of procedural and policy information, Parenting 101 offers parents a hands-on, practical look at the realities of raising a teenager in today’s global, high-tech society. Although some of the developmental obstacles of adolescence will never change, many first time freshman parents are anxious about the nuances and challenges their child will face during his or her four years of high school.

Parenting 101 presentation

Under the direction of Dr. William Rullo, USCHS director of counseling, and Jace Palmer, USCHS assistant principal, freshman parents were presented with a realistic view of what to expect during their child’s high school career. Numerous topics were covered during the evening presentations. Technology issues such as the dangers of using the Internet inappropriately as well as the potential implications of having cell phones that produce pictures were discussed. The temptations teens face with regard to drugs and alcohol was a sensitive and important area of concern for everyone at the program, as parents were given a checklist of warning signs to look for in their teen child. In addition, numerous other topics were covered, including procedures specific to Upper St. Clair High School. Dress code, student driving, attendance, discipline, and outlining a typical day for a high school student were all key points of discussion during the program. One thing is for sure, educators and parents will never be able to completely shield our children from the inevitable temptations and challenges they will face during their teenage years. The ability to make quality decisions will ultimately be up to our students as they progress on the road to adulthood. Having parents and educators working as a team to assist our youth in these endeavors will be one further measure we can take toward helping to ensure the greatest likelihood for our children’s success. Parenting 101 was just another way our District and our parents joined forces in helping to make such a goal a reality. n

Meet the Teacher This issue of Meet the Teacher focuses on Matthew

Alloway, a first grade teacher at Baker Elementary. Matt grew up in Erie, but now he and his wife, Emily, a teacher at USCHS, make their home in Castle Shannon. He loves watching football, and while there was a chance he might grow up to be a Browns fan, he roots for the Steelers. Matt and Emily also enjoy camping and basketball, and sometimes help coach at the basketball camp Emily’s father runs. Keep reading to learn more about one of our District’s special teachers. Name: Matthew Alloway. School and subject area: Baker first grade teacher. Education: Penn State—BS, human development and family studies; Slippery Rock—BS/teaching certificate; University of Pittsburgh—M.Ed., supervision and leadership. Favorite subject in school: Reading. Matt said he had a first grade teacher who really made books come alive. Least favorite subject in school: He said he didn’t dislike any subject, but thought social studies classes were kind of bland. Why he became a teacher: Matt said he became a teacher because he had lots of great teachers that he respected and looked up to. He still keeps in touch with his first grade teacher, Mrs. Palermo.

Matthew Alloway helps a student.

What people might be surprised to know about Matthew: He and Emily took ballroom dancing in gym class when they were at Penn State and are still taking lessons six years later! Matt says swing is his favorite style of dance, and he and Emily performed a swing number during last year’s Baker Caper. During his student teaching days he tried to teach his students a few basic dance moves, and most recently gave swing lessons for some of his fellow teachers at Baker. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Girls’ Tennis—the Road to Greatness Timothy Wagner Did you hear the sound of tennis balls

coaches including Renee Russell, Lisa Dollard, other features that Joan Howard, and Kim Watt (Upper St. Clair create such an enthustriking rackets in High School mathematics teacher). Bruce, a siastic, competitive, the distance this fall? PIAA doubles champion from Mt. Lebanon, and successful team The USC girls’ ten- went on to claim various titles as a Division each season? Bruce nis team was primed I athlete and later as coach of the Duquesne suggests, “A key for another exciting University women’s tennis team. ingredient is mainyear of competition. Since Bruce’s arrival at the USC courts, the taining team unity team has claimed seven WPIAL titles and three and a positive out- Christine Schmoy Christine In a community er look.” Bruce also Sandman where excellence state team titles; in fact, Upper St. Clair won has become both consecutive state team titles in the 2000-01 and believes that sharing her own habit and tradi2001-02 seasons, the first two years that the experiences with the girls is vital; she continues tion, it’s not surprising that the Lady tournament took place. to compete today with the same passion as she Panthers tennis team has not only met, Upper St. Clair High had at their age. but also surpassed the expectations of School Athletic Director PIAA state champion Shayna Miller (USC, its fans nearly every season. The kerTed Petersen notes that ’05) plays tennis at Cornell University and nel of success surely lies in the strong Bruce has the demeanor contends, “The hard work and dedication involvement of our community and to be an excellent defen- required for the USC high school team were the positive role that parents have sive line coach, and he perfect preparation for competition at the colin the lives of their children. There often sees Bruce as the Bill legiate level.” The Upper St. Clair girls’ tennis are other facets that are also woven Cowher of the tennis world. team has a long history of success and whether together to create champions on the Her enthusiasm and energy, or not former Panthers continue at the college court each fall. equaling and occasionally level, each can and should be proud of the time Elyse Schm itt Notably, tennis for these girls is a yearsurpassing that of her players, spent playing the game. At the end of the day, round commitment; the fact that the majority creates an atmosphere that rethis team can glean satisfaction of the team’s players train and condition at quires determination and hard from both a tireless work ethic area tennis clubs literally 12 months a year is work on the part of the athletes, and a winning record! n not an exaggeration. Long hours are spent in but also reinforces the love of the preparation for mid-August when the ladies game and the joy found in a job Timothy Wagner is the assistant come together as a team and begin intense done to the best of one’s ability. coach of the USCHS girls’ tennis preparation for fall competition. Found beneath the umbrella team and a senior child development Coaching is also an integral part of any of greatness established by Upper and education major at Washington team’s success and the Lady Panthers are no St. Clair’s strong sense of commuand Jefferson College. different. The team is headed by Coach Marcy nity, diligent training, and good Bruce (College of Charleston, ’93), who took coaching are certainly aspects Karly Turkaly the helm a decade ago following a line of that propel the team. Are there

L u m i n a r i a Luminaria has come to represent warmth, peace, and friendliness in Upper St. Clair

and draws visitors from far and wide to enjoy our candlelit streets. Order by December 2. Delivery on December 9. Luminaria kits, including 12 candles, bags, and sand, are $8. The luminaria sale is sponsored by the USC Band Parents Association. Proceeds benefit USCHS music department students. For more information call 412-833-2712 or visit www.uscbpa.org.

Luminaria Kit Order Form Name: _________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________ Zip: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________ Number of kits _______ x $8 per kit = $ _______Total enclosed Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association Mail to: USC Band Parents Association 2583 Rossmoor Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

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Left to right: Nick Zaitz, Kristen Kish, Colleen Cosgrove, Ian Winner, and Zach Kavo

USC Drum Line Performs at Pressley Ridge Members of the Upper St. Clair High School Drum Line took time this summer to perform for campers at Pressley Ridge Center for Autism. Drum line captain Zach Kavo, accompanied by Colleen Cosgrove, Kristen Kish, Ian Winner, and Nick Zaitz played several numbers for the campers, and then let the kids try out the instruments before leading them in a parade. Letters from Home Students in grades kindergarten through fourth at Streams Elementary ended the last school year by taking part in a letter writing campaign to show support for troops on active duty around the world. The students were encouraged to make cards with colorful pictures and positive messages to thank the soldiers for their service. USC Residents Debut Film The Rest Falls Away, a film written and directed by Greg Kasunich and edited by Craig Quinlan, had its first showing on August 9 at the Upper St. Clair High School LGI room. Greg said the film dealt with the importance of decisions and choices people make in Left to right: Craig Quinlan their lives, and how some of and Greg Kasunich the small decisions people make may have bigger outcomes than expected. The picture was done locally with scenes shot in and around Pittsburgh, including Mt. Lebanon, Bridgeville, Upper St. Clair (including Boyce Mayview Park), the West End, and downtown Pittsburgh. Greg and Craig plan to submit their project to film festivals in and around Pennsylvania, including the Three Rivers Film Festival and the Tribeca Film Festival. Greg and Craig are juniors at Temple University, where they both major in film making and minor in business. Greg is the son of Kathy and Norman Kasunich, and Craig is the son of Marie and Craig Quinlan. n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

OM Selected by Microsoft for Learning Initiative Kathleen Himler, USC OM program coordinator Every year the Upper St. Clair Odyssey of the Mind (OM) extra-

curricular program gains momentum. In addition to celebrating the advanced placement of many Upper St. Clair teams in competition last year, OM is celebrating being selected by Microsoft Corporation to help emphasize creative team based dynamics in the classroom. By integrating OM strategies into the classroom, Microsoft aims to enhance the way students approach learning. OM has been selected by Microsoft to participate in their Partners in Learning (PiL) initiative. PiL is a long-term commitment to partner with governments, local schools, and teachers to establish a foundation for continued advances in education and learning. It employs a systemic and comprehensive approach to the challenge of empowering students and teachers. At the heart of the initiative is the Learning Grants program which, over the next five years, provides an investment of software and more than $250 million in cash grants to deliver technology skills training to students and teachers worldwide, and to assist in information and communications technology (ICT) integration into curricula OM Spontaneous Skills competition participants, and learning. left to right: Michele Scherf, Sharon Gao, A Microsoft grant was and Carly Bogan awarded to OM to help identify and quantify successful OM strategies that can be used in the classroom. Microsoft found OM to be a pocket of innovation, which could be leveraged and scaled to K-12 public education. Over four years OM will develop materials to help teachers integrate creative problem solving techniques by improving the learning environment, implementing innovative teaching methods, and utilizing multiple levels of technology. To help achieve this goal, OM is seeking the input of educators who have transferred OM strategies into their classroom teaching practices. The materials developed will be shared with classroom teachers throughout the country.

USCHS team that advanced to the 2006 OM Worlds competition are, left to right, front row: Noah Simmons and coach Ed Wilson; back row: Ali Klos, David Bucholtz, Lucas Wilson, Johnny Simons, Ray Van Cleve, and Adeeb Yunus.

Those involved with OM realize that the experience changes the way one approaches learning. In OM one learns that the most obvious solution is not necessarily the one that yields the best result. When presented with a challenge, an OM team learns the value of brainstorming, trial and error, compromise, patience, prioritization, strategy, and risk-taking. Working with time constraints, fixed budgets, and solution parameters, OM participants develop creative solutions. The most rewarding aspect of the OM approach is that the end result is a composite of the team’s skills, imagination, and personality. In too many classrooms learning is not fun, and kids don’t have opportunities to work together. Students are often discouraged from interacting with one another in order to prevent disturbances and are compelled to follow a single specific path to find a solution. OM demonstrates that many different paths can lead to a solution. It is this dynamic that will be incorporated in the PiL initiative. Members of OM return every year because they have fun, enjoy the process, and relish in the sense of accomplishment. Maybe it’s a good thing they don’t focus on how much they are, in fact, learning! n In Upper St. Clair, Odyssey of the Mind is an extracurricular activity available to all students, K-12. For more information, contact Kathleen Himler, USC OM program coordinator, at khimler@yahoo.com.

A French Exchange Laura Blank, USCHS junior This past summer 13

students and two teachers from USCHS traveled to France for Upper St. Clair’s first-ever French foreign exchange program. Our group spent 12 days in Lyon (southeastern France) living with host families. As a first-time visitor to France and the youngest American student in our group, I jumped headfirst into the French culture. I arrived, along with my fellow students, at the Lyon train station on a Saturday in midJune and was immediately separated from all other Americans until Monday, three days later. That first weekend was the most challenging part of my trip. Along with getting used to my new surroundings, I also became part of a new 62

family. My French exchange pen pal Clara Combet and her family were very kind and welcoming, but fatigue and homesickness kept me quiet at first. Although I was tired and out of my element, I bonded with Clara and we were great friends by Monday. Monday morning was the first time I saw any of the other Americans since our arrival in Lyon, and seeing familiar faces was comforting. We began each day in the computer lab at the Lycée St. Marc (the Saint Marc high school). We had the opportunity to email family and friends, check up on the latest U.S. news, and chat about any concerns we had with our host families. After our morning pick-me-ups, we began to visit historical sites and points of interest in Lyon. Some days only the Americans were present for these adventures, but most

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

days our French pals accompanied us. We usually spent the days with our teachers from morning until three in the afternoon. After that time we were no longer visiting students, but typical teenagers. The afternoons were always exciting even if I only went home to turn on the TV and watch a football match—I mean the Soccer World Cup games! Other afternoons we went shopping, bowling, or just hung out. I developed a close friendship with Clara and I was sad when the time came for our group to leave our host homes for a four-day excursion to Paris before returning home. The change of scenery from Lyon to Paris was drastic. Lyon felt like a small comfortable town, even though it’s second (or sometimes third) in population in France (depending on the

A French Exchange Continued

College Selection Maria Simon, USCHS senior There is no denying it—fall arrived, bringing the

American students in front of the Eiffel Tower

ever-fluctuating population of Marseille). Paris’ population appeared much more diverse than that of Lyon, and the number of English-speaking people rivaled that of French-speaking Parisians. Although cultural differences were an exciting part of my French exchange experience, I also enjoyed visiting such famous sights as L’Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Giverny Gardens (home of the revered artist Monet). I found the most impressive sight to be the Eiffel Tower. Even though I had seen the Eiffel Tower in movies, I was astounded by its enormity. France was very welcoming. The food was different and rich in flavor, but by the end of the trip I was growing hungry for familiar American food and surroundings. Even though I had a rough time adjusting at the beginning of my trip, I never once wanted to give up on this exciting experience. When I arrived home to Upper St. Clair, the first thing I said was, “I want to go back to France! Can we get some Chick-fil-A?” n

Laura Blank (right) and her pen pal Clara Combet

Laura Blank, the daughter of Anne and Tom Blank, is studying IB French 4 in preparation for future language courses.

beginning of a new school year. For high school seniors, it also brought college applications. So how do you determine to which schools to apply and how to go about getting your application noticed? While no one knows the exact answers to these questions, you can do certain things to help you navigate the college search and application process. Many students have no idea where they want to go to college. A good way to narrow down the seemingly infinite choices is to ask yourself a series of questions, such as whether you want to go to college in a rural area or a city, or whether you want to go to a big or small school. Once you have some idea of what type of school you are interested in, you need to learn which schools fit your criteria. A great way to figure this out is through the e-Discover program. This website asks students a series of questions about what they may be looking for in a college and then provides a list of schools that fit the criteria. This is a great program that can be very helpful in the college search process. You can access the site at http://webapps01.act. org/eDISCOVER. The Upper St. Clair High School counseling department is a very helpful resource as well. The counselors are well-educated about many colleges and can help you in your search by recommending schools that they believe will fit your needs and personality. Even if you have some idea of what you want, it’s still a good idea to meet with a high school counselor. He can help to make sure that you’re headed in the right direction with your search. He may also recommend schools that you may not have considered or even heard of. If you’re not quite sure what kind of school you’re interested in, you should think about visiting different types of schools. Begin by looking at some of the schools that may have been recommended by the e-Discover program or your counselor. Visiting various schools will help you get an idea of what different types of schools are like. Once you’ve determined some schools that you might be interested in, you need to apply. This stage is what many people feel is the hardest part of the college selection process. The key to handling applications effectively is getting them done in advance. This way you are not rushed and generally do your best work when completing the applications. While time consuming, the application is one of the crucial determining factors for admission to a school,

so it’s very important that applications are done well. Most schools now accept the Common Application. Therefore, a college applicant only has to fill out one application and send it to all the schools that he or she is applying. When you fill out your application, it’s important to make it distinctive and memorable. Remember that your application is only one of many, so it may not get the attention that it deserves if it’s impersonal and commonplace. It’s important that your essay has an interesting beginning to grab the reader’s attention. The people who are reading applicants’ essays are

more inclined to pay attention to an interesting essay than to a boring one. While much focus is put on the application essay, the essay is not the only thing that colleges look at. They also look at the other parts of your application, such as your transcript, resume, SAT and/or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. Colleges like to see challenging classes and improvement on a student’s transcript. Also, many schools like at least three years of a foreign language. Another thing that schools look for is consistency in activities. They like someone who is devoted to his or her activities. Often, a college would rather admit someone who has been thoroughly committed to fewer activities than someone who has been loosely involved in many things for a short period of time. It’s also a good idea to apply to at least one school that you feel you are likely to get into. This way, if all else fails, you will have a fall-back school as your safety net. According to Gina Cassarino, admissions counselor at Allegheny College in Meadville, it’s also good to only send in the number of letters of recommendation that the school asks for. Sending in more letters than the school requested is useless. The only time that you should send in more than two is if you don’t have a close relationship with your counselor, and you wish to get a letter of recommendation from someone you know better. Although there is no way of guaranteeing that you will get accepted to the school of your choice, you should still take advantage of these and other techniques to improve your chances for admission. Good luck! n

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Kindergarten News Parents are requested to register their kindergarten-aged children at the elementary

school located in their attendance area. All children five years of age on or before September 1, 2007, are eligible to register. School Area Date Baker................................................................................................................Tuesday, March 6 Eisenhower................................................................................................ Wednesday, March 7 Streams......................................................................................................... Thursday, March 8 Times for all........................................................................................... 9-11 a.m., noon-2 p.m. A special evening session for all elementary schools will be held on Thursday, March 15, 6:30-8 p.m. at the School District Central Office. It is not necessary that the student accompany the parent to registration. Readiness Evaluation

School personnel are available to screen children whose parents wish additional help in making a decision on entrance into kindergarten. Individual dates will be established during registration. Admission Periods

The admission period for kindergarten is limited to the first two weeks of the school year unless the child’s family transfers to Upper St. Clair from another school district where the child was enrolled in a kindergarten program. Questions regarding kindergarten readiness should be directed to Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Services, at 412-833-1600, extension 2214. School Health Immunization Regulations

The Allegheny County Health Department’s (ACHD) Board of Health has enacted the School Health Immunization Regulations for children in Allegheny County. Since August 2002, all students entering school for the first time at kindergarten or first grade must have the following immunizations completed prior to entering any public, private, or parochial school: • At least four doses of diphtheria/tetanus vaccine (one dose must be on or after the fourth birthday) • Three doses of polio vaccine • Three doses of hepatitis B vaccine • Two doses of measles vaccine, preferably as MMR vaccine • One dose each of mumps and rubella vaccine, preferably as MMR vaccine • Vericella immunity, either from vaccination, history of having chicken pox, or laboratory testing Since 1983, Allegheny County regulations have allowed provisional status only for students who transfer from another state. Students transferring from out of state may be enrolled provisionally provided there is evidence of having received at least one dose of each antigen and provided there is a plan to complete the required immunization within eight months. Families are encouraged to obtain the needed immunizations from their physicians. However, the ACHD does offer the required vaccines free of charge. To obtain information about clinic location and times, interested persons should contact the ACHD Infectious Diseases Program at 412-578-8060. Provisions for this regulation do not apply in cases where extenuating medical or religious factors are involved. If there is any reason why a child should not be fully immunized, parents must submit a physician’s certificate explaining the circumstances. Parents are also required to provide written documentation if they disapprove of immunizations for religious reasons. These documents will be accepted in lieu of a certificate of immunization.

Registration Packets

Registration packets will be available at each elementary school after February 21, 2007. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration.

Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Around the Township

Tips for Tiny Trains

Tracking Under Your Christmas Tree

News from Around the Township

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY (TODAY): Before we get into

Arendt: Yes, I was a professional writer in the corporate world for over 30 years. I wrote a number of books during that time, but all of them were published under the corporation’s name or were given the byline of a senior executive. When I retired, one of my goals was to publish a book under my own name! I’ve just published [in June 2006] my third book, Carl Arendt’s Small Layout Scrapbook. It’s a collection of stuff I’ve

That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it! As a footnote, a little over half my book sales come from the U.K. and Europe.

probing questions, could you tell us who you are TODAY: I notice in your books that you and how you came to be an are listed as the publisher as well as the auauthor? thor. Why is that? Arendt: My name is Carl Arendt, Arendt: Self-publishing is a fast growand I live in Upper St. Clair with my ing trend, not only in the United States, wife, Sheila, two black cats, Jordan and but around the world as well. Traditional Smudge, and some Macintosh computpublishers are more and more dependent ers in Rolling Meadows North, above on blockbuster best-sellers, Bridgeville. Photo by Carl Arendt and they’re much less interWhen I retired from ested in publishing books business a decade ago, I intended for a limited, spedove back into my lifecialty audience. So a thriving long hobby of model “do it yourself” publishing railroading. I never before industry has grown to fill had enough time to really the gap. explore the possibilities In my case, not only are of the hobby, and as the model railroaders a small and Internet grew I met lots narrow interest group, but of other people online also people involved with who were in the same small layouts are a tiny minorfix. So I started a website ity of that already tiny group! I called “Micro Layouts recently presented a workshop for Model Railroads” at at a regional convention of the www.carendt.us. National Model Railroad AsThe site presents ideas sociation. The convention was and reports about a neglectwell attended by a cross-seced niche in the hobby—very tion of modelers, but less than small model layouts that are Displaying one of his “micro layouts,” a complete working railroad model ten percent of them attended easy and quick to build, in less than four square feet, is USC author Carl Arendt. The layout measures my presentation—that’s just need little space and cost just 20"x14" and features a replica Western Pennsylvania sugar house where maple sap one out of every ten attendees! peanuts to complete, yet is boiled down to syrup. The tiny narrow gauge trains, modeled in G scale are great fun to construct (one half inch to the foot), haul the sap from the maple grove (hidden behind the backdrop) The audience for my kind of to the sugar house for processing. This layout has been featured in a national magazine subject matter is enthusiastic, and operate. Originally, I and will appear in Carl’s next book. but very small. expected to cover about 25 So, to break into print, I went ahead layouts before exhausting that subject and written and collected over the past five starting on another one. years or so—including reports of projects and started publishing the books myself. To my astonishment, the site took by 63 modelers in 13 countries, along with They’re printed in Bethel Park and sold off almost immediately. People all articles about my own work, new ideas, over the Internet. You can buy a copy of my third book at my website right now, if over the world began sending me and general modeling advice. you’re interested! ideas, comments, layout designs, photographs, and even videos of their TODAY: Do you think the title is perhaps TODAY: Are you making a lot of money railways! Today the site attracts a a bit modest? from your books? couple thousand visitors a day from Arendt (laughing): Well, I was planArendt: Absolutely not. Publishing the some 70 countries, offers over 600 lay- ning to call it The Small Layout Scrapbook, out designs, and—to your point—has but my distributors in Europe told me that website and the books is a hobby for me, spawned three books about model having my name prominently displayed so I set book prices just high enough to railroading in very small spaces. would sell more books over there. Evi- break even. I want everyone interested in dently I have a following in England and the subject to be able to buy them. In all, TODAY: I take it that you write these on the continent. So I added my name in I expect to sell only a few thousand copies books yourself? the title to help out their marketing efforts. of each book.

66 66 UPPER UPPER ST. ST. CLAIR CLAIR TODAY Winter TODAY Winter 2006 2006

Photo by Karen M. Bush

Author Carl Arendt adds some reference material to his website at www.carendt.us using Upper St. Clair Township Library’s Wi-Fi Internet connection. The award-winning website forms the basis for much of Carl’s book content and includes a widely read monthly e-zine, “Small Layout Scrapbook.” The library’s Wireless Fidelity network was installed in mid-2006 utilizing a grant from the Friends of the USC Library.

I lose money in the long run, but I view it as the normal cost of engaging in a very rewarding hobby. If I were collecting modern art, for example, my hobby costs would be much higher! TODAY: Would you recommend selfpublishing to aspiring authors? Arendt: Sometimes it’s the only way to get into print. If you’ve been collecting rejection letters for a year or two, you might want to consider publishing your own book. There’s a lot of help available these days, and it’s less costly than you might think. Not everyone will want to design their own publication as well as write it, supervise the printing, and handle the marketing in the way that I do it. There are many good, reputable companies—several right here in Western Pennsylvania—who will help you edit, design, print, and distribute your book. Many such companies will also stock your book, publicize it, and handle sales in exchange for a percentage of the proceeds. The cost, for a hardbound book with text and few illustrations, can range from a couple hundred dollars to around a thousand. And there’s always the slim chance of catching the eye of a reviewer who can publicize your book and turn it into a very successful seller! If that happens to you, you’ll then be able to get your second book published easily based on the “name recognition” of your first. That has happened to me. I’ve received offers from publishers—mostly in England

where small model layouts are a way of life—to publish and market my books. In my case, I’ve always turned them down because I like the creative freedom of “rolling my own” as well as the fun of meeting and conversing with my worldwide customers on the Internet. TODAY: What would be your advice to people interested in publishing their own books? Arendt: Try lots of publishers first. There are many specialized presses out there who might be interested in your manuscript. If you’ve exhausted all those possibilities without achieving a sale, then by all means publish the book yourself. But don’t give up your day job. It’s hard to make a living as an author, although it’s possible. On the other hand, I think there’s an immense satisfaction in seeing your name on the title page of your book and thinking to yourself, “I did that!”

Locating his book on a bottom shelf in Upper St. Clair Township Library’s non-fiction area, author Carl Arendt shows off the Dewey decimal coding, 625.19 ARE. The library collection includes two of his books on model railroading in small spaces.

TODAY: One final question: your reviews often refer to your “good-humored and witty” prose style. Where can USC residents read a sample of your style? Arendt: They can read my prose continually at my website, especially in my monthly e-zine called Small Layout Scrapbook (the source of much of the material in my new book). Or they can

check out my books at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. Search the catalog for “Arendt, Carl” or look on the non-fiction shelves under “625.19 ARE.” People can also buy a mail-order copy of my latest book online at www.carendt.us. Delivery should be pretty fast, right here in the Township. And, of course, they’ve just finished reading a sample. n

Photo by Karen M. Bush

A New Store in Town Looking for a new ladies boutique in the South Hills? Are you looking

for a high degree of individuality in your wardrobe and gift giving? Come visit Trunk Shows Boutique, which opened its doors in October. Located on 30 Donati Road (just off Fort Couch Road), it’s owned and operated by 15-year USC resident, Teres Lucot. Teres and her staff will show you the latest in jewelry, handbags, belts, clothing, and giftware. While traveling to many trade shows, Teres finds trinkets and baubles at all price points. When in NYC (which has been her favorite “apple” for over 20 years) she brings home to Pittsburgh familiar brand items and even better, some unfamiliar ones! Teres and her staff are eager to assist you in finding that perfect gift for your mom, daughter, sister, best friend, or just your little ol’ personal self. There are special items for those book clubbers, bunko groups, LCRs, and girls’ night out groups. Ask Teres for details if you’d like Trunk Shows Boutique to host your next girls’ night out. Come and browse the store. There are many wonderful, new, and exciting things for the fall and holiday seasons. This one-of-a-kind boutique is one that deserves local support. Visit www.trunkshowsboutique.com for information about store hours and directions. n Winter 2006

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra 2006-07 Concert Series

Corner Art in the Round—An Affair of the Senses Plan ahead for the ninth annual Art in the Round, Sponsored by WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc. to be held on Saturday, February 24, 2007. The Washington County Courthouse on Main Street in Washington will play host to this event where over 50 well-known, local Western Pennsylvania artists will display and sell original art and prints. Wine tasting, cheese trays, desserts, a Chinese auction, and entertainment turn the evening into “An Affair of the Senses.” Featured is Upper St. Clair artist Dino Guarino, an accomplished ecclesiastic and sports figure artist. Brenda Waters will be the honorary chairperson for the eighth year. Profits from Art in the Round are returned to the community in the form of grants to help women and children in need. Visit www.womenofswpa.org for details and ticket information, or call 724-969-0984. n

The Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra, now in its 48th season, is under the leadership of Music Director Bruce Lauffer. The orchestra, with over 60 volunteer musicians, is dedicated to providing quality music at a reasonable cost to families of Southwest Pennsylvania. The 2006-07concert series is a wonderful family opportunity to listen to and enjoy music of our talented local performers. December 16–Holiday Memories with Christmas and Hanukah music January 27–Festival Winners including winners of PCO’s Young Artist competition March 31–Music of the British Isles Featured artist Dino Guarino

It’s Show Time!

Music for Mt. Lebanon’s 2006-07 Season Music for Mt. Lebanon, a concert series in its 61st season, includes an exciting and varied mix of musical styles with broad popular appeal. It’s one of the longest-running community entertainment associations in the country. A nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization serving all South Hills communities, its mission is to provide affordable, accessible, and professional entertainment programs for everyone to enjoy. The remaining three of the five season’s concerts include: December 2–The Celtic Tenors This trio of young men burst on the world tour scene in the past few years pioneering a whole new style of cool, never before seen on the classical stage. Winners of numerous performing and recording awards, The Celtic Tenors captivate and inspire all who hear them. March 3–Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance Celtic Tenors Direct from England, presenting Gilbert and Sullivan at its best, the Carl Rosa Opera is a touring company of musicians, singers, and technicians. The Pirates of Penzance has rocked, jazzed, and tapped its way into becoming one of the most popular of the Savoy Operas. April 14–Quartetto Gelato Classical in intent and eclectic by design, Quartetto Gelato thrills audiences with the mastery of eight instruments and the unexpected bonus of a brilliant operatic tenor voice. Their repertoire travels imaginatively from classical masterworks, to operatic arias, to the sizzling energy of tangos, gypsy, and folk songs.

Quartetto Gelato

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

Making Music in the South Hills for 48 Years

Performances are at 8 p.m. on Saturdays at Mt. Lebanon High School’s auditorium. Single performance tickets are available for $15 to $25. For ticket information, call 412-264-3354. n

May 12–Grand Finale Time/Location: Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. in Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. Tickets/Prices: Tickets are $10 general admission, $7 for seniors, and children under 12 are free with paid adult. Groups of ten or more adults can obtain a group rate of $5 per person by calling 412-279-4030 before the concert. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at Johnstonbaugh’s Music Center in Bridgeville (412-221-2990). Other: A pre-concert conversation for students takes place 15 minutes before the start of each concert. For more information, visit www.artsnet.org/pco or call 412-279-4030. n

Holiday Concert The South Hills Chorale presents “A Holiday Celebration” December 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church (corner of Washington and Scott Roads in Mt. Lebanon). The concert will feature Philip Green’s folktype Mass for chorus and orchestra, Saint Patrick’s Mass, and other holiday music and entertainment for your listening pleasure. Tickets are $10 and available at the door. Visit their website at southhillschorale.org for more information. The South Hills Chorale has been entertaining Western Pennsylvania for over 40 years. This non-profit group, comprised of 100 members, invites you to come join them! n

Arms Full of Blessings Ceremony Commemorates Award On August 23, St. Clair Hospital hosted a celebration to

commemorate receiving the Distinguished Hospital Award for Patient Safety™ for the third year in a row. Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato, St. Clair Hospital President and CEO James M. Collins, St. Clair Hospital Vice President of Medical Affairs G. Alan Yeasted, M.D., and Congressman Tim Murphy participated in the festivities. The Distinguished Hospital Award for Patient Safety™ is presented by HealthGrades, one of the nation’s leading healthcare rating companies. n

Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato, St. Clair Hospital President and CEO James M. Collins, St. Clair Hospital Vice President of Medical Affairs G. Alan Yeasted, M.D., and Congressman Tim Murphy Photo by Karen Abrasheff

Douglas Watkins with grandchildren Tyler, Keira, and A.J.

August was a month to cherish for Township Manager

Douglas Watkins and his family. Doug and his wife, Clare, became first-time grandparents at the beginning of August. By the end of the month and within 16 days of the birth of their first grandchild, two more of Doug and Clare’s grandchildren were born. Tyler Michael Anibaldi was born August 8 to Doug and Clare’s daughter, Beth, and her husband, Eric. Keira Elizabeth Watkins was born August 21 to Doug and Clare’s daughter-in-law, Kristi, and their son, Douglas, Jr. And, a mere three days later, on August 24, Anthony Leonard (A.J.) Tomaino, Jr. was born to Doug and Clare’s daughter, Emily, and her husband, Anthony Tomaino. Congratulations to the six new parents and the very happy grandparents! n

David J. Stapor, M.D. Donald F. O’Malley, Jr., M.D. Edward D. Poon, M.D. Mark L. Lesh, M.D. Jeffrey M. Matheny, M.D. Certified American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

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Confronting Childhood Obesity Simple Strategies to Promote Weight Loss in Kids Joseph A. Luxbacher, PhD Despite a steady stream of bestselling diet books and an abundance

of low-fat and no-fat foods, the latest data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows that Americans are heavier than ever before. Approximately two-thirds of adults, about 136 million people, are overweight or obese. More disturbing is the fact that children appear to be following in our footsteps. The percentage of overweight children has doubled to nearly 30% over the past 25 years, and the share of obese children has tripled to 15%. These findings have long reaching implications as studies show that children who are overweight are much more likely than are children of normal weight to become overweight or obese adults. Though many parents view “baby fat” as simply a passing phase in their child’s life, for many kids it actually signals the beginning of a lifelong struggle with obesity. Most parents are well aware of health risks associated with obesity—heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, joint problems, asthma, and cancer—and also realize that staying slim in a fat society poses a daunting challenge for children. High fat, caloric dense, sugar laden, super-sized foods and drink seem to be the norm rather than the exception. Given the choice, most would select a steady diet of pizza and desserts, and who can blame them. Children need support and guidance if they are to win the battle of the bulge—most can’t do it alone. Parents occupy the most influential position to play a positive role in that process. Strict dieting is definitely not the answer. Cutting back significantly on calorie intake can result in a child not getting essential nutrients needed for growth and optimal health. That aside, diets simply do not work for the long term. Follow up studies show that the vast majority of people who initially lose weight on a diet eventually gain all of it back. In reality, the cause as well as cure for the overweight condition is grounded in the myriad eating and activity behaviors that we perform day-in and day-out. Most start innocently and unintentionally—what and when we eat, how we prepare foods, what toppings we put on our food, if, when, and how often we exercise, how we spend our leisure time, etc. Each time we repeat a behavior we strengthen it 70

and eventually it becomes a habit. Over time we become slaves to our habits, for better or for worse. In short, we literally become what we repeatedly do. Two fundamental facts work in concert to determine body weight and, more importantly, body composition. First and foremost, weight gain is purely a matter of energy-in versus energy-out. Take in more calories than you burn and the excess will be stored as fat. Second, consuming approximately 3500 calories above and beyond energy expenditure, whether it occur over a period of days, weeks, or even months, results in the deposition of one pound of body fat. The process works just as effectively in reverse, and therein lies the key to losing excess weight and keeping it off.

A couple of behavioral changes that lower energy intake by 100 calories a day (or burns 100 additional calories) will result in weight (fat) loss of about ten pounds per year! Eliminating 100 calories can be as simple as replacing a customary crème filled donut with a toasted English muffin, or replacing a large glass of whole (4%) milk with 1% milk. Likewise, walking the equivalent of one mile will burn about 100 calories. These examples illustrate how minor changes in eating and activity behaviors can result in major changes in body weight over time. The key to losing excess weight and keeping it off is to replace habits that work against you with habits that work for you. Attempting to eliminate behaviors entirely (no sweets, no carbs, no fat, no fun!) typically doesn’t work over the long term. There are a number of subtle behavior changes that kids can make to reduce their calorie intake and at the same time increase the number of calories burned. I have grouped these into “Seven Slimming Strategies” that promote weight loss in

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

kids. (Keep in mind they work just as well for adults!) I make no claim that these are the only slimming strategies available. Undoubtedly there are more, but the seven mentioned here are quite encompassing and provide a solid starting point for most families. The strategies are simple and straightforward, require little discipline, and can be easily adjusted to match a child’s preferences. Once put into practice kids simply go on about their lives and begin losing weight. Best of all, when they reach the desired weight they are able to maintain that weight with little effort— their new daily habits guarantee it.

The Seven Slimming Strategies 1. Make “smart” food choices. The goal is to cut calories without eliminating any types of foods, or even the quantity of food eaten. You can do this by making smart food choices; in short, replace high calorie foods with lower calorie alternatives. For example, choose fresh versus canned fruit, unbuttered versus buttered popcorn, steamed versus fried vegetables, pretzels versus potato chips, egg whites versus egg yolks, ice milk versus ice cream, and the like. There is no need to eliminate any food or food group. A complete diet can and should encompass all types of foods, including desserts, as long as the overall food mix is balanced and healthy. 2. Limit liquid calories. Keep in mind that consuming merely 100 calories per day above and beyond energy expenditure, the average caloric content of a single eight-ounce glass of soda pop, can result in a ten pound weight gain over the course of a year. Kids can easily cut calories by making a few minor adjustments in what they drink. There are loads of sugar in fruit drinks, sodas, sport drinks, and energy drinks, and a lot of fat in whole milk and fast food shakes. Lots of sugar and lots of fat equals lots of extra calories. As a general rule choose alternatives like 1% milk, unsweetened tea, bottled and flavored water, and diet drinks. You can also dilute fruit juices with water to reduce the caloric count. 3. Choose condiments wisely. What we choose to put on our foods often

transforms them from a low calorie dish to high calorie entrée. This is one area of our diet where we can reduce calories without sacrificing amounts of food. Butter, margarine, gravy, mayonnaise, creamy salad dressing, sour cream, and cheese sauces all add a significant number of calories. Lo-cal alternatives include lite margarine, mustard, ketchup, vinegar and oil dressing, marinara, and fat-free mayonnaise. 4. Prepare heart-healthy food. How we prepare foods can significantly influence calorie count. Baking or boiling are lower calorie alternatives to frying and are healthier for you as well. A baked or boiled potato contains approximately 150 to 200 calories. That same potato cut into strips and prepared as French fries has three times the number of calories, primarily due to the added fat from frying. Baking, broiling, steaming, and grilling are your best choices for preparing vegetables, white meat, red meat, and fish. You can also save calories by removing the skin from chicken and turkey, trimming the fat from beef and pork, choosing tuna in water (rather than oil), and by using low fat or no-fat cooking oils. Go easy on processed meats such as hot dogs and salami which are usually very high in fat content. 5. Eat five or more small meals each day. Children (and adults alike) should not skip breakfast in an attempt to cut calories. Not only does a good breakfast provide the energy required for maximum mental and physical performance during the day, studies also show that people of normal weight generally eat breakfast, while the majority of overweight people do not. Spreading calorie intake throughout the day provides a constant source of energy and ultimately results in less fat storage. Consuming frequent, but smaller, meals also tends to maintain blood sugar levels, curb appetitite, and may even increase metabolic rate to a slight extent. Consuming an equivalent number of calories in two or at three large meals per day generally results in a significantly greater portion of the meal stored as fat. Kids like to snack anyway, so this should be an easy sell. 6. Walk, don’t ride! The National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) recommends that children five to 12 years of age get at least 60 minutes, and preferably more, of moderately-intense physical activity every day of the week. In today’s highly mechanized world, that’s a tall order for any child, but if given a reasonable and safe choice it is

better for kids to walk rather than ride (unless they are riding a bike). Adding just 1000 extra steps to their daily travels, a distance equivalent to one-half mile, can burn 40-50 calories and result in a five-pound weight loss over the course of a year. Walk the steps, walk the dog—just walk!

7. Practice “functional fitness.” Performing any form of physical activity will burn calories. It doesn’t have to be “formal” exercise per se. Children can burn a significant number of calories through “functional fitness,” everyday physical activity that accomplishes an objective above and beyond simply burning calories. Performing any one of the following activities (i.e, household chores) will burn 70 to 100 calories, depending on body weight. • Clean windows for 30 minutes. • Shovel snow for 20 minutes. • Rake leaves for 20 minutes. • Wash the car. • Mow the lawn (push mower) for 20 minutes. • Weed the garden for 25 minutes. • Trim the hedges for 30 minutes. In summary, if you adopt just a few of these strategies your children can begin cutting a significant number of calories daily. Be creative. Analyze your child’s eating and activity habits and make simple adjustments that will work in his or her favor. Consider that the calorie-cutting effects of a healthy diet coupled with the calorie-burning effects of regular physical activity are cumulative. Cutting 75 calories here, burning 50 calories there, if done on a consistent basis, will gradually add up to significant weight loss. This is the safest and surest method of successfully combating the epidemic of childhood obesity. n Winter 2006

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So Your Child Wants to Play Hockey?

Dale, Debi, and Andrew Blazek with host parents, Mark and Nancy Yeager, in Des Moines, Iowa

On a 90-degree day this past summer, as kids were

swimming and hanging out with friends, an 18-year-old boy lugged his hockey bag into Bethel Park’s Bladerunners. Working on his hockey skills is important to Upper St. Clair High School senior Andrew Blazek as he prepares to play in the United States Hockey League for the Des Moines Buccaneers. Andrew became interested in ice skating for fun at age three. With the “need for speed” at age five, power skating lessons commenced with Upper St. Clair’s own Barbara Benedetti. By seven,

Are you looking for a gift with local interest? Then an annual subscription to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is just the answer! For just $12 (add $10 for international mailing), your loved one (college student, family member, or friend who moved away) can keep tabs on USC and receive our next four issues. Please specify the address to which you would like the subscription sent. Send $12 check made payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY to: UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2006

the sport of hockey was in his blood. For five years he was a South Hills Panther. Then, three years of play for the Pittsburgh Amateur Pens AAA groomed him to play three years with the Pittsburgh Hornets AAA in the Midwest Elite Hockey League. Along the way, travel was inevitable. The Pee Wee World Championships took him to Quebec City, Quebec, living for two weeks with a Frenchspeaking family, where the tournament awarded second place to his team. Meanwhile, Andrew, with the support of his family, managed a social life and schoolwork while competing in the U.S. Nationals three times. His team, the Pittsburgh Hornets Midget Majors, placed third two years in a row. For Andrew to succeed at hockey, intense travel was predestined. His parents, Dale and Debi, and sister, Lindsay, are his strong supporters. Since Andrew turned 11, all four have traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada in support of his passion. Debi expressed that it is very difficult to be seen by Division I scouts in our region. Why? Well, although organized high Shown here as a Pittsburgh Ho rnet, Andre school hockey is well es- competed with more than 200 players to lanwd one of ten open positio ns tablished in this area, elite Des Moines Buccaneers with the this season. player scouting takes place mainly in the northern and mid-western states. Unlike other more popular sports (football, baseball, basketball, etc.), scouts do not usually enlist top hockey players directly from high school unless one or two years on a Junior A team are showcased on their resume. Self-sacrifice for Andrew means living away from home since August of this year with a host family in Des Moines, Iowa, playing hockey, and concentrating on studies. These are paramount to ensure entry into a Division I program. Talent along with the vast support of family, friends, and teammates has afforded Andrew well-deserved attention of key coaches and scouts. Coach Barb Benedetti asserts, “Andrew is dedicated to learning, determined to excel, skates with silky precision, and is an all around great kid!” Andrew attributes his skills to Barb, who continually refines his powerful skating stride and technique. It is this skill that has captured the attention of coaches and scouts as he’s moved up through the ranks. Being raised in a hockey-loving family, Andrew came by his love of the game quite naturally, as his father, Dale, has played hockey since he was in grade school. Andrew is embracing his new challenge and he’s living his dream. When he leaves Des Moines Valley High School behind (where he will spend the majority of his senior year) to return to Upper St. Clair this coming March, Andrew will receive his diploma with his USCHS Class of 2007. He hopes to be closer to achieving his goal of a bright future in hockey. “I’m real excited to show my coaches, teammates, and fans how I can contribute to the success of my team.” n

Happenings CONTACT Pittsburgh Volunteers Needed CONTACT Pittsburgh, a crisis and suicide hotline, is looking for nonjudgmental listeners to provide immediate emotional support to adults and teens. Volunteer crisis line specialists are needed to work at the center’s crisis hotline, which is staffed 365 days a year. Last year, trained volunteers handled more than 22,000 calls from adults and teens with problems ranging from family conflict and physical abuse to addiction and suicide. Applications are being considered for the award-winning, 30-hour training course. Participation is mandatory at all training sessions. Upon completion of the training volunteers are asked to work eight to 12 service hours per month. For additional information about becoming a volunteer, contact Christy Stuber of CONTACT Pittsburgh at 412-820-0100 or cstuber@contactpgh.org. n Mothers and More Mothers and More, a support group for moms who have altered their career path to care for their children at home, meets monthly at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills on Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon. Contact information membership coordinator Christie Kulbieda at christiekulbieda@yahoo.com, 412-774-2138, or log on to the website www.geocities.com/mothersandmore_swpgh. n C-MITES Fun Classes for Gifted Students Carnegie Mellon University’s C-MITES offers programs and services for gifted students in kindergarten through ninth grade. Weekend workshops will be held on the Carnegie Mellon campus in November, March, and April. Students can study robotics, mathematics, science, humanities, or engineering in these handson workshops. Classes include Ice Cream Science, Build a Robot, Mag Lev, Kitchen Science, and Write Your Own Web Page. The cost of one half-day workshop is $54. Scholarships are available. For more information, call Ann Shoplik at 412-268-1629 or visit www.cmu.edu/cmites. n Children’s International Summer Villages Help build a more peaceful world through international friendships. Find out about the 2007 programs by visiting www.cisvpgh.org or contacting Paula Flaherty at 412-361-2203. n Welcome to the Neighborhood! The Newcomer’s Club of Upper St. Clair is a social organization for women who have moved to the Township within the past two years. This winter’s highlighted event is the club’s annual vendor dinner scheduled for November 16 at 6 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Fort Couch Road. To learn more about this active club, attend one of their monthly welcoming coffees or contact club president Felicia Musillo at 412-221-0316 or musillo@adelphia.net. n USC Lions Fall Leaf Bag Sale When: Saturdays on November 11 and 18 from 9 a.m. to noon Where: USC Department of Public Works building on the corner of McLaughlin Run Road and Truxton Drive n

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Jim O’Brien at Heinz Field

Jim O’Brien never leaves home without

it. His American Express card? No way! He never leaves home without his pen and notebook. And home to Jim is Upper St. Clair with Kathy, his wife of 39 years. The O’Briens have two daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. Kathy and Jim met at Pitt while both were attending graduate school. “It was preposterous that I married Jim,” said Kathy with a big smile. “He was a writer without a job. Come to think of it he still is!” Maybe Jim doesn’t have a traditional job, but he’s definitely a writer. Jim just completed his 22nd book, Steeler Stuff, his most recent of a long line of sports books. O’Brien’s books feature stories about athletes, celebrities, and fans of today as well as those dating back to the 60s—many from the Pittsburgh area, including Art Rooney Sr. and Bob Prince. Most people do not realize that a “Jim O’Brien book” is a total “Jim O’Brien process.” Jim writes, interviews, collects data, and takes pictures. He types, proofs, publishes, and distributes his own books. He has sold over 350,000 of his books, many of which have been sold face to face (and specially personalized) at local bookstores that welcome his book signing engagements. “Writing a book is both nine months and a lifetime,” said Jim. “It takes nine months to put it together and consists of a lifetime of memories and stories.” Writing has always been Jim’s dream. One of his earliest Christmas presents was a toy printing press. “I wanted to take control of my own destiny,” recalls Jim.

“And what better way to do it than to write about something you love—sports and people. When I first started out I asked Myron Cope, ‘How do I become a writer?’ He answered, ‘You just have to sit down and start writing.’ ” Well, Jim sat right down and has not stopped writing since. His latest contribution for the Pittsburgh sports book enthusiasts, Steeler Stuff, concentrates on the recent Steelers history. If you enjoyed the Steelers run to a Super Bowl championship, you’ll certainly appreciate this book. It’s a collection of stories about the Steelers and the many people associated with last year’s championship season. “One of the best stories is about the tough life endured by Aaron Smith,” said O’Brien. “It’s fascinating to see what Smith went through and to see what a good man he is today. There are other interesting stories about Alan Faneca’s epilepsy and Kendall Simmons’ diabetes. This book will give you a better perspective for the magnitude of these men’s accomplishments—on and off the field.” Jim joked that he was going to write books until he filled the entire bottom shelf of his bookcase. Well, the shelf is getting close to being full, but according to Kathy, “I would not count on Jim stopping, and don’t expect Jim to be looking for a real job in the near future.” Jim’s recently started on book number 23, and upon the completion of our interview he left the house with pen and notebook in hand. n

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COLDWELL BANKER Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!

Custom built home w/outstanding features! 5Br, 6.5Ba, MBR sittingrm, 1st flr pub, bkyd sports court, 4 car grg! $1,099,000 Sydnie Jones 412-344-0500

Gorgeous provincial! 5Br, 3+2Ba, 3rd floor suite, island kit w/ stainless steel appliances, familyrm, gamerm. $610,000 Edith Gidwani 412-344-0500

Beautifully maintained, custom built home, 5Br, 4.5Ba, familyrm fireplace, den, 4 season room, 3 car garage. $569,900 Helen Cramer 412-831-5555

Move right in! Beautiful corner lot, 4Br, 2+2Ba, family room fireplace, game room, wet bar, deck. $299,000 Kathy Enick 412-344-0500

Great floor plan, lots of updates, 4Br, 2+2Ba, family room and game room fireplace, beautiful yard. $270,000 Kathi Kernan 412-344-0500

Absolutely beautiful! Large rooms, 4 Bedroom, 2.5Ba, 2 fireplaces, family room, game room, patio. $269,900 Carol Marks 412-833-5405

Lovely Provincial, new white kitchen, 1st flr laundry, familyrm, gamerm, 4Br, 2.5Ba, large deck @ 18th hole country club. $248,900 Hope Bassichis 412-833-5405

Gorgeous updated split entry! New oak kitchen and appliances, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyrm, French doors to deck! $239,900 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405

Gorgeous setting, level entry, 4 Bedroom, 2.5Bath, family room fireplace, gameroom, screened porch. $219,900 Anita Crago 412-344-0500

Spacious updated split entry, 4 Bedroom, 2.5Ba, living room and family room fireplace, den, near park! $221,900 Arlene Murray 412-344-0500

Great updates throughout, 3Br, 2.5Ba brick ranch! Kit w/stainless steel appliances, 2 fireplaces, den, gamerm, 2 car grg. $195,000 Monica Mahla 412-831-5555

Spacious, well maintained ranch, 3 Bedroom, 2.5Bath, gameroom, omnistone driveway. $189,900 Nancy Beaulieu 412-344-0500

Charming & versatile cape, cozy breakfast rm, 3Br, 3Ba, livingrm fireplace, gamerm, deck, large level yard. $179,900 Cheryl Covi 412-833-5405

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Sparkling 3 Bedroom, 2.5Bath split entry, updates, crown moldings, game room, 2 car garage. $164,900 Jane Washil 412-833-5405

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