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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.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Winter 2007 • Volume 13 • Issue 4
Features and Around the Township 16 Our Gal Sal
With three decades of dedicated service as District Justice, Sally Edkins retires.
18 Meet George Pitcairn The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair introduces you to one of its active trustees.
26 Silk Treasures from Haiti
Resulting from a mission trip, La Croix, Haitian women learn to handpaint silk scarves.
45 “Tea for Two,” or Ten or Twenty
20
The USCAA began by overseeing baseball.
38
Tri-Community South—best in the state!
56
We’re not in USC, baby!
Mary Lynne Spazok visits Gilfillan Farm’s “Tea and Tour.”
69 Come Knit With Us
The Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival is a favorite for creative Pittsburghers.
Township 30 Boyce Mayview Park—an Overview
Follow the timeline of this gem of a property.
32 Can We Talk?
What’s a Conversation Salon? It’s a new offering at the library!
36 Winter Storm Emergencies
Do’s and don’ts to follow during a winter storm emergency.
39 Candy Pass Out—a USCVFD Tradition
Saturday, December 15 celebrates a time-honored Township tradition. Make it your tradition, too!
40 Annual EMS Subscription Drive
Underway, and for your consideration, is Tri-Community South’s 2008 subscription drive.
School District 47 2007 Halls of Fame
Upper St. Clair High School honors 12 recipients to the 2007 Halls of Fame.
48 Dr. K—the “Triple A” Man
Wayne Herrod interviews Dr. Terrence Kushner, Upper St. Clair’s assistant superintendent.
51 Staff Development—a Perfect Fit
“One size fits all” does not measure up when it comes to USC staff development.
52 Pawprints
An overview of fall and winter activities in our schools.
55 6 + 1 = Writing Success
A successful writing program is adopted at our three elementary schools.
Guides 10 22 41 63
Life Planning Pinebridge Commons Gift Dining
Cover 14 The cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY shows USC residents Janice Shaming, Lynn Rogers, Phyllis Wilding,
and Storm Foreman of Betsy Ann Chocolates. The cover was underwritten by Betsy Ann Chocolates owner Lynn Rogers. A feature article can be found on pages 14 and 15. Cover and feature article photography provided by USC resident Wayne Herrod. Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Publishers Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield Senior Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Julie Sweet, Advertising Associate Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Paul Besterman, Steve Boehmer, Cindy Brophy, Karen Brown, Dr. Judith Bulazo, William Deibler, Dina Fulmer, Baylee Gordon, Wayne Herrod, Sheena Kapples (YWG), Betsy Krebs, Dr. Claire Miller, Jessica Hecht O’Brien, Tony Reda, Alicia Scott, Maria Simon, Mary Lynne Spazok, Lisa Tuberville A special thank you to USCHS student Cullyn Thomson for her help with this issue. 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. The 52nd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2007. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
The staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY would like to congratulate Douglas A. Watkins, Upper St. Clair Township Manager, for his 25 years of dedicated service to the Township and its residents. 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 52nd 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
Mark G. Trombetta, President David E. Bluey, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Carol B. Coliane Glenn G. Groninger Daniel A. Iracki Jeffrey W. Joyce Angela B. Petersen William M. Sulkowski
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. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses
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. The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2008 issue and will be published in March 2008. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. 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.
Deadline for articles and advertising for the Spring 2008 issue is January 2, 2008. Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592
Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Pentagon Printing Corporation 18 West Steuben Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-922-0422 • Fax: 412-922-2922
Visit Our Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Email Us: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
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1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole
Douglas A. Watkins
As UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY welcomes the beginning of its 14th year of publication, we introduce you to its 52nd issue, our winter edition. The combined resources of the Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District, with the help of dedicated volunteers, have enabled this publication to continue to be a desired, even expected form of communication among residents. With the financial backing of our advertisers, we consider it an opportunity to produce this quarterly magazine, a choice to which we are committed. In fact, life is all about choice. In any given situation, it comes down to the simplest of choices—yes or no. Our choices, and the paths we take, establish who we are and what we value, and help guide our lives to what we deem important. Residents of this community recognize the value in this Township and School District and have chosen to call Upper St. Clair “home.” Whether you are a generational family or a family that has recently moved here because of the community’s wonderful reputation, rest assured that decisions and choices made by our Township’s leaders uphold all that is “Upper St. Clair,” protecting its history and promoting its future. As integral players in the Township’s development and the responsibilities we share in steering Upper St. Clair into the future, we respectfully listen to and welcome each citizen’s comments. We ask that each of you commit to excellence, and together we will continue to make this community a place of value and one in which many desire to live and rear their children. In this issue, look for Township and School District tabs found in the upper right- and left-hand corners of these two prominent sections of the magazine. While reading the magazine, this should help you to locate articles related specifically to our Township and School District. May your holidays be peaceful, and may the cold winter air be warmed when you greet family and friends at your front door.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
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Perception is not Reality Cindy Brophy, State Farm® Agent When it comes to American families and financial planning, perception is not reality. Although they are over-
whelmingly optimistic about their financial future, people’s financial planning habits paint quite a different picture, according to a recent study commissioned by State Farm Life Insurance Companies and conducted by KRC Research. The study reports that although 82% of Americans are optimistic about their financial futures, American families in reality are not adequately saving or protecting their finances. From saving habits and financial goals to life insurance coverage and retirement saving tools, American families have a lot to learn when it comes to protecting their financial futures. Americans cannot just hope for the best; they must take a critical look at where they are financially, then lay out a clear roadmap that guides them to their hopes and dreams. Key highlights from the study show the gap between perception and reality:
Life Insurance Perception: More than seven in ten Americans are confident that they have enough life insurance. Reality: Only 12% of Americans report having the industry recommended coverage of seven or more times the family’s annual income.
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Savings Habits
Perception: The majority of Americans (58%) are not worried about outliving their retirement savings. Reality: Many Americans are not utilizing a full range of retirement tools. Social Security is the most prominent source of retirement income over other retirement savings tools, with one fifth of Americans reporting that it is their only or main source of retirement income.
Perception: Most Americans (82%) are optimistic about their financial futures. Reality: Nearly four in ten, more than 77 million Americans, say that they live paycheck to paycheck and are not able to put money into savings.
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Financial Considerations of a Divorce Lisa Turbeville Divorce is an emotional and financially stressful time. Often one spouse is less familiar with the family
finances and may feel at a disadvantage when presented with settlement options. Critical long-term decisions have to be made under difficult circumstances. While attorneys are experts in the law, many are now recognizing that their divorcing clients may benefit from working with a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA). Typically, after a divorce, lifestyle adjustments have to be made to maintain financial stability. A CDFA can help with cash flow projections to develop a realistic budget, determine which assets will be used to fund the income, and how long the assets will last. A CDFA can prepare short and long-term projections. This planning helps to visualize a workable settlement and can illustrate the danger of dissipating the assets in the early years.
CDFAs can assist in evaluating the pros and cons of various settlement options, such as: • Is alimony better than getting more assets? • My spouse is offering me $100,000 in cash vs. $100,000 in his or her 401k account. Which option should I choose? Why? • Can I afford to stay in my house? For how long? • If I need to take money out of a retirement plan, how can I avoid a tax penalty? What are the tax implications of that decision? A CDFA has extensive training, specifically in regard to the divorce process. Frequently, a CDFA is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and may have an investment and tax background as well. An objective CDFA working with a person’s legal team can provide peace of mind in helping one to understand the financial decisions at hand. n
Lisa E. Turbeville, CFP®, CDFA, and EA of Watermark Financial has over 25 years experience in the financial services industry. See ad on page 10.
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
13
Upper St. Clair’s Family of Chocolate Erin Gibson Allen America’s best truffles are sold here in Upper St. Clair.
Approximately three years ago, the Food Network selected Betsy Ann truffles as being among the best truffles in the nation. The famous truffles are the number one selling item in Tim and Lynn Rogers’ store, Betsy Ann Chocolates, located at 1815 Washington Road. Betsy Ann Chocolates got its start in 1938 with a woman named Betsy Ann Helsel, who made the chocolates in her West View apartment kitchen. The chocolates achieved notoriety when she began selling them at the Joseph Hornes department stores. After 30 years of business, she sold the company to Mr. Harry Paras, a Pittsburgh businessman. Today the business is still owned by the Paras family. Betsy Ann is known for its smooth, sweet milk chocolate and boasts that its product is made without wax or preservatives. The truffles come in two lines, the American variety (with flavors like chocolate chunk and crunchy peanut butter) and the International variety (with flavors like raspberry chambord and amaretto). One specialty truffle, the Paras Parfait Truffle, is made with whipped layers of chocolate and is made only during the winter season. This specialty truffle sells for approximately $4 a piece and has a loyal
Tim, Pamela, Lynn, and Julie Rogers enjoy a family vacation in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska.
following of chocolate lovers who search out the truffle every year. Once a week a truck delivers freshly made chocolate, made in the same tradition as it has been for years, from the West View kitchen to the Rogers’ store in Upper St. Clair. The Rogers first opened their store in December of 1994 in South Hills Village. After operating for 13 years in the mall, the family moved the business in March 2007 to its new location on Washington Road. “Customers find the new store convenient,” said Lynn. She credits much of the store’s success to her loyal and helpful
employees. Twelve part-time employees work at the store, including local residents Storm Foreman and Phyllis Wilding. The busy season for the store starts at Thanksgiving and runs until Easter. During the holidays, towers of gold tiered boxes of chocolates and gift baskets are popular.
Pictured to the left of the ca Danielle Wenk and Katie Hogu ndy tower are e. Yo can participate in the many fund ur organization raising activities that Betsy Ann Chocolates has to offer.
Betsy Ann Chocolates’ new location is four times the size than that of its previous location at South Hills Village, and offers a much larger variety of gifts and candy. 14
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Other popular products sold at the store are favors for events like weddings, baby showers, and anniversaries. The store also offers gift items like candleholders, picture frames, and serving dishes. Betsy Ann also offers fundraising opportunities. Local groups can sell threeounce chocolate bars for $2 a piece, the same price charged at the store. Depending
A large selection of favors is available for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, birth announcements, Christening, Holy Communion, Bar Mitzvah, and Bat Mitzvahs. wn for the biggest and Betsy Ann Chocolates is kno South Hills. The store’s the in kinz Web best selection of rs a buy ten, get one free. frequent buyer program offe kinz display are, Web the of Shown in front and Danielle Wenk. left to right, Lee Ann, Skyler,
on the quantity sold, groups can retain 40 to 50% of the proceeds for their organization. Another large portion of the chocolate business is the corporate sales during all of the holiday seasons. “The entire Rogers family loves chocolate,” said Lynn. High school sweethearts, Tim and Lynn dated all through college and married in their early twenties. After having two daughters, they moved into their home in Upper St. Clair. They chose the district because of its reputation for offering a quality public education. Both daughters, Julie, age 30, and Pamela, age 27, attended Upper St. Clair schools from kindergarten through high school graduation. When the family initially opened the store, each family member, including Julie and Pamela, was required to work in the kitchen in West View to learn about the complicated chocolate-making process. The daughters then worked in the store during high school and while on breaks from college. Working in the store was just part of Julie and Pamela’s childhood. Both girls were on the Upper St. Clair Swim Club and the high school swim team. “I really feel that being part of the Upper St. Clair swim team and community was one of the best things my girls ever did,” said Lynn. “It gave them a good work ethic.” Supporting their children’s interests and passions is important to Lynn and Tim. When the girls were growing up, Lynn and Tim served as president and treasurer of the Upper St. Clair Swim Club. Lynn
was also active in the PTA while the girls were in school. Julie now works in Del Mar, California, as a high school teacher, working with children with special needs. She graduated from Ohio University and is now in graduate school at San Diego State University. Pamela lives in New York City, working for Price Waterhouse Coopers. She graduated from Towson University in Maryland where she studied international business. With their daughters now living on opposite coasts, Lynn and Tim are active in the local community. Lynn spends much of her day working at the store, while Tim works as assistant controller at Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel. On Sundays, Tim frequents Heinz Field for Steeler games. Together they enjoy attending productions at the Little Lake Theater. While she misses having her daughters around, Lynn enjoys seeing young families
enter her store on a quest for another of her products, which is definitely not made from chocolate. In the recent past, Webkinz, a popular plush toy that offers access to a Website with games, has been a huge hit with young customers. Lynn maintains an email list of over 700 people to notify when a new Webkinz arrives at the store. Lynn said that on the mornings of the first day a new animal is sold, the parking lot is often full of cars as parents line up to buy the latest, must-have animal. “We call them Webkinz mornings and they’re exciting,” said Lynn, “because everyone comes running in and the kids are so excited.” Whether selling truffles or Webkinz, Lynn said she feels good living and running her business in Upper St. Clair because she thinks it is a safe and friendly environment. n
Betsy Ann Chocolates, at 1815 Washington Road in Upper St. Clair, can be reached at 412-854-4090. The store is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The store is closed on Sundays. The store will have extended holiday hours.
In front of the store are, left to right, Lynn Rogers, Phyllis Wilding, and Storm Foreman. Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
15
Our Gal Sal
A Tribute to District Justice Sally Ann Edkins
Mary Lynne Spazok The Honorable District Justice Sally Ann Edkins has retired.
After three decades of dedicated service, her Upper St. Clair Office located at Boyce Plaza will close at the end of the year. A magistrate merger between neighboring Bethel Park and USC will occur in 2008. Surprised? Well, budget cuts and a lessening of local minor crime are the determining factors. So why exactly does her contemporary photo and the sepia image of John Gilfillan, circa 1826-1885, hang side-by-side at the law office of the Gilfillan Homestead? They are a reminder to all visitors that both of them served the community with dignity and decorum as neither friend nor foe. To be open minded and unbiased, fair and impartial, unassuming and incredibly honest are the attributes these two have in common. They signify that keeping the peace is paramount. Judges Sally and John called Upper St. Clair home. While Sally, with husband, Tom, raised four upstanding sons, Magistrate John Gilfillan was the only son of John Gilfillan and Margaret Fife. His bride, Eleanor Ewing, helped farm the Patterson Land Grant Property situated from Fort Couch Road to Washington Road. Home to John and Eleanor was the humble Patterson Log House, which stood at the current Consolidated Coal office site, until the red brick Gilfillan House south on Route 19 was completed in 1857. John’s legacy continued, and he served as Senator of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1863 and 1877. Elementary education was informal at the Higbee Log House in the 1790s where John went to school, with no record of further education. Dedication, compassion, and common sense were Magistrate John Gilfillan’s keys to success. “Our Gal Sal” is eminent within the judicial system. Sally Edkins and best friend Anna Marie Scharding, retired Magisterial District Judge of the Mt. Oliver, Knoxville, and Beltzhoover areas, began as secretaries in the Super Squire System of the 1970s. With no official procedure established, communication was by telephone and 16
an occasional secretaries’ meeting. This Foundation System began with a manual typewriter, a few chairs, some filing cabinets, and a manual calculator—not much different from the 1800s! Taking the job very seriously, both women were dedicated to their respective neighborhoods. Clients included troubled teens, misguided adults, the “regulars,” and on occasion, Sally Edkins holds a framed photo of John Gilfillan. more serious offenders. Sally and Anna Marie took the Qualifying Course in 1982, which was the equivalent of a three-year Judge Edkins reminds teen offenders law course crammed into one month. The that she is a mother who has seen and rest, as they say, is history. heard every possible excuse. Juveniles Sally began her legal calling in Dormont were warned, then enlightened with, “I in 1968. She first served as a clerk, then have four sons and you probably haven’t advanced to secretary, administrative as- done anything they haven’t done. But sistant, and finally to district justice. The if I see you in here again, I’m going to job of a local judge is not easy. Sally says, come down on you with both feet!” Vol“There is much tragedy in life. I’ve lived unteer community service assignments with the decisions I’ve made. I’m fair, I were not unusual for first-time offendlisten, and I care.” Clientele included law ers while a hefty fine would be levied breakers, criminals, and victims. Every for repeat wrongdoers. In contrast, the individual who walked through the door joy of “an open door policy,” even on a had a unique set of circumstances. A deci- stressful day, was performing a wedding sion was made that affected that person ceremony or attending a public speaking whether good or bad. Every one required engagement. serious thought and critical consideration. In their newly found free time, Sally There were winners and losers. Being a and her family will simply enjoy life and judge is to be a student of human nature. experience things they never got around Sally affirms, “I loved my job and I fully to doing. An avid reader and author, enjoyed what I did.” Sally’s poetry is published in anthologies Mainstream media bring many tragedies. that include the 1983 edition of American Local judges live with tragedy within their Poetry as well as Lyrical Voices, an interown communities. They see clients face to national publication. Her sense of humor face at the neighborhood grocery store and shows in the whimsical tales of adventure post office, not in the distance somewhere. she tells her grandchildren. Those tales, Being a judge can be dangerous, with much which are unfinished, will now come to stress and pressure. They pray that they fruition. make the right decision as they search for In the wee hours of July 4, I found the correct words, hoping to make a positive myself glancing out the window now and impact. First-rate local judges understand again to watch Old Glory’s red, white, and that they make judgments that will affect blue billowing with dignity in the dewy the voters who affirmed confidence to put morning breeze. Thankful for stellar adthem in office. Their goal is to prosecute, ministrators akin to District Magistrate not persecute. Anna Marie states, “Sally ran Sally Edkins and her 1800s predecessor a good court. There was never any “fixing” John Gilfillan, Independence Day rejoices or quid pro quo. When you stood before her in our security and freedom. 2008 brings in court, you knew you would receive a just the end of her era, so to “Our Gal Sal” we and impartial decision.” thank you and wish you well.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Accolades to Sally Edkins:
Highley
“I’ve gained a friend that will help, listen, and lend support no matter what. She is a lady with wisdom, a kind heart, and sage knowledge of life. I love and will miss this lady of pure grace.” —Kathy Tomsko, secretary, office manager, friend of 15 years.
Dedicated Knowledgeable
“I have worked with District Judge Edkins since 1982 and she has always been first-class in the performance of her duties. We at the Township wish Sally well into retirement and we will miss her in court.” —Douglas A. Watkins, Township Manager
Accessible Dependable
“The retirement of my colleague and friend, Sally Edkins, will mean that many chapters of the USC School District and magistrate office relationship will be gone. I’m not sure what the consequences will be, but I do know that there will be a huge void to fill.” —Terrence Kushner, Assistant Superintendent, USC School District
$75 Million Sales in 16 Years
Susan Highley
ABR, CRS, SRES 412-833-3600 Cell 412-889-1214
Recently retired USC District Magistrate, Judge Sally Ann Edkins
“Judge Edkins has always been the consummate professional. She has tremendous concern for young adults. Her reputation is exemplary. Sally is highly respected in the law enforcement community. That friendship is the kind of gift we give ourselves; for the past 40 years she has been a gift that keeps on giving to her friends and most especially to the community of Upper St. Clair.” —Ronald Pardini, Chief of Police, Upper St. Clair “We have fashionable nicknames. Sally was the “PPUSC,” Pretty Princess of USC; I was the “WWMO,” Wicked Witch of Mt. Oliver. One very, very slow evening in night court, we conducted a regal ceremony. I crowned her PPUSC because she was tired of just being a princess. We then served cupcakes to the staff. I find that it’s so important to laugh and occasionally enjoy lighthearted fun. I am truly thankful for my best friend of a long, long time. We are loyal kindred spirits.” —Anna Marie Scharding, retired District Magistrate Judge “Her style of fairness and compassion are only exceeded by her sense of total community. She is a good-natured and fun-loving individual. Sally, keep on truckin’ one day at a time and don’t look back!” —F. Kyle Robinson, USC Director of Public Works n
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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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.”
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Board of Trustees The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Board of Trustees is an active group of community residents dedicated to promoting the Township of Upper St. Clair and its citizens. Left to right, seated: Richard Patton, treasurer; Celeste Acinapura, executive director; Joanne Prorok, board chairperson; Dina Fulmer, secretary; middle row: Bill Andrews; Linda Serene; Diane Vater; Becky Stern; Deepa Godbole; Shellie Yeung, board vice chairperson; back row: David Rice, director of donor relations; George Pitcairn, Sandie Thomas, Paul Fox, Angela Petersen; missing from photo: Gary Kissinger, Janet Mosesso
Getting to Know George Pitcairn, Community Foundation Trustee Dina Fulmer No matter how hard you look,
you won’t find a bin containing wine from Pitcairn Cellars at your local state store. That’s the domain name of the wines produced by George Pitcairn, Upper St. Clair Community Foundation trustee since 2006 and current chairman of the Foundation’s Recreation and Leisure Services Committee. George and his wife, Hedy, have lived in Upper St. Clair since 1978; their two children, Kelly and Brett, are Upper St. Clair High School graduates, class of 1989 and 1993, respectively. To date, their children have brought Hedy and George a total of six grandchildren, ranging in age from a year and a half to five years. Since three of the grandchildren live in neighboring Peters Township, George and Hedy are, indeed, happy grandparents. Anyone who has visited Boyce School in the recent past has probably met Hedy, that school’s secretary for nearly 20 years. George, however, is probably not as familiar a face. When he is not figuring out how to get the bocce ball tournament going or how to reactivate the bicycling club to participate in this year’s MS 150 (that’s miles!) Tour, or the Tour de Sewickley (a breeze at 60 miles), George makes his living as a manufacturers’ representative for industrial and municipal water and waste water treatment equipment in Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Another of George’s passions is fly fishing.
The fly fishing group was started by Roy Johnson, immediate past president of the Foundation. While the Foundation provided the funds to get it going, the group is now selfsufficient. A lot of fly fishermen live in Upper St. Clair; there is even a fly fishing reference section in the library! Born in Pittsburgh and reared in White Oak Borough, George holds a B.S. in industrial engineering from Penn State and an M.S. in civil engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. He started his career at U.S. Steel where he was the environmental engineer for the Edgar Thompson, Vandergrift, and Irvin Works. An enthusiastic sportsman and outdoorsman, George has coached baseball and soccer and enjoys bicycling, bird hunting, hiking, and kayaking. He also claims to be a sailor-wannabe, but, rather reserved and self-effacing, he is probably more proficient at hauling the sheets and trimming the jib than he lets on. As if wading into the waters of Oil Creek and other assorted cold streams and enduring 150 miles pedaling from that teeny bicycle seat were not enough, George has hunted snow and blue geese with the Cree Indians on their James Bay Reservation in Canada and fished for salmon and halibut among the whales and sea lions in Alaska. He would be a handy man to have around when you are hungry. Lest you think that George is out in the wild all the time, know that he and Hedy have
soaked up considerable culture in Europe, traveling extensively in Italy, Germany, Holland, England, and France. They have also visited the American West many times, including a hike part way down the Grand Canyon. George believes that the Boyce Mayview Park is under-appreciated by the community and would like to start a formal program to make better use of the wetlands there. He is also interested in investigating any recreational or leisure activity for which there is sufficient interest to start a new program. Have a great idea and a number of like-minded folks interested in starting a new activity? Interested in participating in a bocce ball tournament this year? If you are, get your group together and contact George. Now, back to the wine. George buys his juice in six-gallon containers, imported from vineyards in California. He then ferments the juice and produces his own wine, the aforementioned Pitcairn Cellars line. Although he does not make every variety every year, he has produced just about every wine imaginable. Each of the wine designations has a family connection; there’s Lafayette Manor Merlot, Hedy Lee’s Cabernet Sauvignon, Poppy’s Pinot Noir, Oak Ridge Twins Chardonnay, and Roman Road Sangiovese, to name a few. Perhaps if the wine business ever goes private in Pennsylvania, we’ll be able to find one of these at our local bistro. Oh, yes, George’s favorite wine? Flintwood Chardonnay, from Sonoma. n
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair
Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-220-7780 • Website: www.mainstreetusc.com • Email: mainstreetusc@adelphia.net
“Upcoming events for 2008 are in the planning stages!” 18
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
U. S. House of Representatives Timothy F. Murphy
U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 322 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-2301 Fax: 202-225-1844
504 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Phone: 412-344-5583 Fax: 412-429-5092
Website: http://murphy.house.gov/ E-mail: murphy@mail.house.gov
Providing Real Healthcare for America’s Children The House of Representatives
recently took a step forward in its commitment to offering real healthcare reforms when it passed the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, H.R. 976. The State Children’s Healthcare Insurance Program (SCHIP) provides comprehensive medical care to low-income children such as immunizations, routine check-ups, prescription drugs, dental care, and up to 90 days hospitalization per year. As a health care provider in a hospital setting, I have seen first-hand the benefits
of SCHIP. A child provided with the proper healthcare early on is more likely to do better in school, develop better physically, and have a better outcome later in life. Every child in America should have a doctor available whenever there is a need. Unlike previous years, the SCHIP debate in Congress this year was somewhat controversial. An early version of the bill funded the SCHIP program by cutting Medicare by more than $177 million. It would have doubled the out-of-pocket healthcare expenses of more than half
the seniors living in the region. This version originally passed the House of Representatives, while a different version passed the Senate. Fortunately, while working out the differences between the House and Senate bills many members of Congress worked across party lines to strip out the harmful provisions. This new and improved version, which would help America’s children without hurting seniors, then passed both the House and Senate. There are also several real healthcare reforms in the SCHIP bill concerning preventative healthcare, reducing obesity, case management, and implementing health information technology. These important patient safety reforms will greatly reduce the cost of healthcare, saving billions of dollars and thousands of lives. However, these benefits will only help if people are aware they exist. There are thousands of children who qualify to receive healthcare benefits but are not enrolled in the SCHIP program because their families do not know they are eligible. To find out if your children qualify, call Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program at 1-800-986-KIDS or my office at 1-412-344-5583. n
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Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
19
Upper St. Clair Athletic Association Turns 50 Tony Reda, USCAA President
Left to right, USCAA members Tom Burke, Tony Reda, and Joe Krolczyk
As you walk or drive around our Township, you will
see many boys and girls kicking, throwing, shooting, dribbling, or hitting a ball. It’s very likely that the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association has organized and supervised the sports activity you are watching. The Upper St. Clair Athletic Association, otherwise known as the USCAA, has been involved with organizing youth sports in Upper St. Clair for over 50 years. The USCAA was formed when youth baseball began in Upper St. Clair. The USCAA was formed to offer sports training and games for the youth of the Township in a positive and fun environment. Over the past 50 years, the USCAA has experienced significant growth and has evolved into what it is today. Children as young as five to those approaching adulthood participate in sports activities run by the USCAA. The USCAA oversees youth programs for football, boys’ and girls’ basketball, boys’ and girls’ soccer, softball, wrestling, and baseball for kids in grade school through high school. Concession stands are also an important aspect to fund such programs and are staffed by many parent volunteers.
Board members of the USCAA serve in many different capacities. I have had the privilege of being a member of the USCAA for nine years and have spent time as assistant commissioner of baseball, assistant commissioner of football, assistant commissioner of girls’ basketball, and commissioner of girls’ basketball. I currently serve as USCAA president. After a number of years of service, every member is given the opportunity to rotate through the executive board and serve as secretary, vice president, and then president, each for a one-year term. The USCAA consists of approximately 20 volunteers. We meet monthly as a group to discuss issues facing the organization as a whole and issues facing specific sports. A key task is how to best utilize the fields and facilities in the Township in cooperation with the School District. Unlike neighboring communities, the USCAA serves as the sole catalyst and organizing body for all of the sports aforementioned in this article. To my knowledge, the surrounding communities maintain a separate association for each sport and, accordingly, the associations and sports programs tend to compete against one another for fields and facilities. In addition, their sports seasons often overlap. However, by having one association responsible for all sports, the USCAA is able to avoid such problems. USCAA members serve on various Township sub-committees. This helps to further promote cooperation in all areas of Township athletics. By organizing sports under one association, the USCAA is best able to utilize Township fields and facilities and provide a broader range of sports experiences to the children of Upper St. Clair.
USC parents on a Saturday morning supporting USC’s youth athletic programs
A good example of cooperation with facilities usage is the Morton Field complex. Over the last several years, it has primarily been used for soccer during the fall season. In fall 2006, the USCAA determined that Morton would be better utilized on Saturdays by allowing the youth football program to host games for the Route 19 League, of which USC is a member. USC youth football has grown from a program with only four teams ten years ago to a 14-team program today, serving kids from ages six through 13. Childhood is a great time to learn and try various sports activities. The USCAA strives to provide opportunities for kids to try many different sports in their grade school, middle school, and high school careers. Our children may not be the next professional superstars, but through the programs offered by the USCAA they 20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Sidelines at a youth football game
can explore many options as they grow. Passions and talents can be discovered, but more importantly, lifelong healthy and active lifestyles can take root. Coaches for sports are chosen with that same philosophy in mind. A good coach sees the potential in every child. Coaches are carefully selected based on their ability to provide fun, learning environments for all of the kids. The USCAA is excited about the future of sports for kids in Upper St. Clair. The fields planned for the Boyce Mayview property have been a long time in coming. These facilities will provide much needed space for practice and games. A big “thank you” goes out to all of the USCAA members and other members of the community who have kept the need for these athletic fields in the forefront of plans for Boyce Mayview Park. The USCAA website provides broader access and information for parents and participants. Visit www.uscaasports.org and share your thoughts using the feedback form. The board remains encouraged by the achievements of our high school programs. Success keeps us focused on what our young kids can achieve if they continue to grow and learn. I believe that all of the children of our community can benefit from participation in sports. The USCAA is here to help make sure that we continue to provide them high quality opportunities. n
Making the play on
the soccer field!
Fifty years ag o the U the Township’ SCAA was formed to over s youth baseba see ll program.
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
21
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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 1. Delivery on December 8. 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
Winter 2007 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2323 Winter 2007 ST. CLAIR TODAY
e r e H At Bat From
Erin Gibson Allen
I learned to play baseball at a state psychiatric hospital.
I did not play baseball growing up. As a girl, when I wasn’t camping, I was playing music or ice-skating. As I got older, I spent hours skiing or reading, while planning to become a relevant, groundbreaking psychologist. In pursuit of this noble vocation, I volunteered at Mayview State Hospital one summer while home from college. In accordance with my Psychology-101 level of training, my job description was simple and involved little to no skill. Groups of teenagers at Mayview would go on occasional field trips. State regulations, I was told, required that a certain number of adults supervise these activities. I was assigned to the adolescent unit to improve the ratio of responsible adults to teenagers on these outings and to make sure no one got lost or left behind. At orientation it was explained to me that many of the young adults at Mayview had experienced difficult times and volunteers should, of course, treat them with respect and kindness at all times. The group of kids I worked with was talkative, easy-going, and excited to get respite
In search 24
ht bat
of the rig
from the routine of hospital life. I let them enjoy their free time without intrusive questions about their lives, and simply kept a constant head count while relaxing with them on our outings at the zoo and wave pool. Late in summer, the group was sent outside to a grassy area on the hospital grounds to spend an hour playing baseball. The kids quickly divided themselves into teams and took their positions. I prepared to cheer and responsibly supervise, and alert the staff if anyone got hurt or otherwise needed attention. However, one of the older boys who was getting ready to pitch, noticed me with my arms folded across my chest and goaded me to join the game. “No,” I declined, “you go ahead.” “No,” he demanded, “grab the bat.” Again I refused, directing him to assume his position on the field. He stared at me for a minute, sizing me up. “Ever play before?” he asked. “No,” I said again, arms still folded. His eyes grew wide and he demanded in a shocked voice, “Get out here.” Feeling unable to say no yet again, I stepped up to the plate as directed. The young man shouted tips at me and lobbed a few pitches in my direction. After more than three strikes and yet more tips, I finally got a hit. The feeling of contact between bat and ball was thrilling. The group of teenagers cheered me on as I ran around the bases. No one was rude enough to attempt to throw me out on my first at-bat. Something about batting in a baseball game is distinctively daunting. When the batter approaches the plate, he is totally alone but for the bat and thoughts he brings with him. Voices of insecurity and doubt compete to be heard in his mind against the many things
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Stepping up to bat
a successful batter must focus on. One atbat follows another. He repeatedly tests his skills like this, his teammates watching. This past summer, approximately 15 years after my baseball debut at Mayview, I was coaxed back up to home plate. My oldest son developed a strong passion for baseball this year. His coach is one of those dads who not only finds countless, unpaid hours to instruct boys on the finer points of catching fly balls, but who also exhibits compassion when the future all-star fails to get his glove up quickly enough, and the ball rebounds firmly off his young head. As a surprise for the boys, the coach suggested an end-of-the-year parentagainst-kid baseball game (with some modified rules, like the dads had to bat from their weak side). I agreed to play and stepped up to bat, my head full again of both tips I had recently learned from my boys (bend your knees; line up your toes with the corners of home plate; tap the far edge of the base with your bat) and, again, thoughts of doubt and insecurity. My heart rate accelerated. Parents cheered. I focused. On my first pitch, I made beautiful contact with the ball (at least I thought so) and charged to first base. I progressed nicely around the bases after other moms were able to pop the ball over our four-foot opponents, but this time one of the boys didn’t hesitate to throw me out as I ran screaming for home plate. Later while the dads had their turn, the moms sat on the bleachers and chatted about how we had failed to appreciate how much pressure is on the batter. “It’s lonely out there,” someone commented. We had more awareness of the pressures
put on our boys as they swung away all summer in front of dozens of cheering and frantic parents. I was reminded then of the friends I made years ago in Mayview. Mayview closed its adolescent unit in 1996, just a handful of years after I was there. The youths there at the time were transferred to other institutions or group homes and were scattered across the state. Those teenagers are now adults, many probably living in the surrounding area. The rest of the facility is slated to be demolished in the near future. I never became the next Sigmund Freud, but my summer at Mayview was well spent. I’ll be sad to see its old red brick buildings erased from our local landscape. Those troubled teenagers taught me something about quieting feelings of inadequacy and dealing with the expectations of those judging your performance and progress. They showed me respect and kindness
Mayview State Hospital, as seen from USC’s Morton Road
at all times. They reminded me that failure might be possible when you face down a pitch, but failure is a given when you are only prepared to supervise. 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.
Two Million Steps and Counting Two years can separate a lot of things. In
the case of USC resident Bob Shinko, two years separated the completion of an additional one million steps. In August 2005 and after four years of step climbing that began in June 2001, Bob reached a personal fitness goal and milestone of running up one million steps at Upper St. Clair High School stadium. This past July and not quite two years later, Bob reached his second personal fitness goal of climbing give a smile. Bob Shinko stops to up another one million steps to total two million. According to fellow stadium trackwalker and USC resident Betty Pecore, “If Bob would count steps going down in addition to steps going up, he would be up to four million!” Along with step climbing in the early morning hours to avoid the mid-day heat, Bob, at the age of 73, likes to exercise by riding a bike and playing golf. Bob is a second-degree black belt and was a marathon runner 20 years ago.
For those loving to count or those who are interested in following Bob’s progress, he has set his next goal of reaching three million steps. We’ll keep you posted! Keeping Bob and other trackwalkers company is USC resident Mary Baumiller. Mary, at age 82, walks four to five miles a day, six days a week, at the USC stadium track. She begins promptly at 6:15 a.m. and continues until 8. After her routine workout, she heads home for a full day of housework and cooking. Betty, who is 72, has met Mary at the track and says, “Mary walks faster than anyone I’ve ever met, but she graciously slows down for me so that I can enjoy her company when we walk together.” While Mary has had both of her knees replaced over the last five years, she has not stopped exercising, enjoying gardening, or entertaining family and friends at her home. Bob and Mary both espouse healthy lifestyles, neither having drunk nor smoked. They truly are inspirational to young and old alike! n Mary Baumiller, trackwa lker, at the young age of 82
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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s e r u s a e r T Silk from Haiti A beautiful, close relationship between people in the
Pittsburgh area and those in La Croix, Haiti, continues to grow. Haitians are a warm, loving people. Mission trippers exchange frequent smiles, hugs, and handshakes with the students and staff at the mission. “If there was only a way to bring those hugs back to Pittsburgh when we return from a mission trip,” commented Sandy Conley after her first visit to Haiti three years ago. She and Bobbie Hartman both believe they have found a way to do just that!
La Femme de La Croix A new and exciting project was launched in February 2007 by two members of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Upper St. Clair who took part in a week-long mission trip to Haiti. Bobbie Hartman and Sandy Conley hoped to teach some young women of La Croix how to hand-paint silk scarves. When the process was demonstrated, it was immediately apparent that the young Haitian women were interested in learning this craft, had an eye for color and design, and possessed a great desire to create high quality, beautiful scarves. La Femme de La Croix (The Woman of the Cross) was born! The program was set up to allow as many young women as possible the opportunity to participate. Each month, four new students are trained and spend an hour or two each day after classes creating the scarf designs. Training and supervision are provided by two young women who are La Croix New Testament staff members.
26
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
The young women who participate benefit in a number of ways: • They receive tuition scholarships. • They learn responsibility and accountability. • They acquire a useful skill. There is much anticipation and excitement about this program. The New Testament Mission community benefits from this project—the proceeds from the sale of the scarves will help the mission and all its current and future endeavors. The members of Westminster Presbyterian Church, through their mission outreach commission, sponsor this project, which is self-sustaining and funded through the sale of the scarves. Ninety percent of the profit from the sale of the scarves goes directly to La Croix New Testament Mission. The remaining ten percent pays for the cost of the materials. Friends of the mission volunteer their time to sell these beautiful creations. Each scarf is made of the highest quality 100% pure silk and hand-painted in Haiti by La Femme de La Croix. The scarves are eight millimeter Habotai, grown, woven, and sewn in mainland China. The hems on all four sides are hand-rolled and sewn with 100% silk thread. Dimensions are 8" x 54". To purchase a scarf or arrange to have a selection of scarves available for sale, contact Sandy Conley at 724-942-0553 or conley1973@comcast.net, or Bobbie Hartman at 724-941-4243 or roberta.hartman@LaRoche.edu.
ful scarves.
nks shows off the beauti
urch member Marta Wi
ian Ch Westminster Presbyter
A Haitian woman paints a silk scarf.
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It has been the vision and dream of Pastor Vaugelas Pierre to make a better life for the people of Haiti. Pierre began serving at La Croix in 1975, and since then has provided a school for children in Haiti whose parents cannot afford to send them. He has seen the schools grow from fewer than 200 students to over 3500. The mission is a hub of activity from the early morning hours into the evening. The schools are overflowing with eager students ranging from pre-school through high school. Buildings have been established in five villages in the La Croix community. The five village churches are filled with worshipers each Sunday and on many evenings. Wells have been drilled in nine different areas of the community to provide clean water to La Croix’s people. The medical and maternity clinics provide affordable health care to people near and far. The Community of Hope is a new endeavor to provide housing to those who need it most. n
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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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*
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. May 22, 2007 Special Meeting of the Board of Commissioners Approximately 60 people attended.
The Board: • Held a public meeting to provide updated information for the Proposed Community Recreation Center.
June 4, 2007 Approximately 45 people attended.
Township News
Preston W. Shimer Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2007*
July 2, 2007 Approximately 10 people attended.
The Board: • Moved to table the public hearing of PLC07-0002–Fox Chase Phase 4, Lot 410, 1836 Winchester Drive– Conditional Use Approval to August 6, 2007. • Adopted Bill No. 7-07 to grant Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development approval to Crossgates Plaza, 1738 Washington Road subject to certain conditions. • Established a public hearing date regarding PLC07-1141 Amendment to Chapter 114 Entitled “Subdivision and Land Development” for September 4, 2007. • Adopted Resolution No. 1475 to establish a public hearing date regarding PLC07-1141 Amendment to Chapter 130 entitled “Zoning” for September 4, 2007. • Adopted Resolution No. 1476 to adopt the First Amendment to the Administrative Consent Order.
August 6, 2007 Approximately 9 people attended.
Kenneth L. Brown Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-4512 2009* J. Matthew Kaufman and USC Commissioner Karen McElhinny
Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2007*
Recognitions and Proclamations: • Commissioner McElhinny presented a Proclamation to J. Matthew Kaufman to recognize his attainment of Eagle Scout rank. • Commissioner Orchowski presented a Certificate of Achievement to Amanda Lohman for winning the 2006-07 WPIAL Diving Championship.
Recognitions and Proclamations: • Allegheny County Councilman Vince Gastgeb presented certificates to Upper St. Clair High School students Jennifer Findle and Molly McCann, who were present, and Samantha Jones and Jennifer Rudolph, who were not present, in recognition for raising money to make lighting improvements along Corrigan Drive in Allegheny County’s South Park.
Frank E. Marsh Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-6244 2007*
Karen M. McElhinny At Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1732 2009*
*Date indicates expiration of term.
Left to right: USC Commissioner Ched Mertz, Allegheny County Councilman Vince Gastgeb, Molly McCann, and Jennifer Findle
Left to right: Jay Jones, USC Commissioner Robert Orchowski, and Christopher Foster • Commissioner Orchowski presented Proclamations to Jay Jones and Christopher Foster for winning the PIAA Tennis Doubles Championship and Certificates of Achievement to the Tennis Team for winning the 2006-07 WPIAL Men’s Tennis Championship. The Board: • Adopted the Township Traffic Calming Program Policy.
28 ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007 28 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
The Board: • Accepted the Grazing Permit Agreement between the Historical Society and the Township. • Tabled the public hearing of PLC07-0002–Fox Chase Phase 4, Lot 410, 1836 Winchester Drive–Conditional Use Approval to September 4, 2007. • Adopted Bill No. 10-07 to grant Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval Re. PLC07-0005-Ford/Oliverio Plan. • Approved LLI Engineering of Pittsburgh for the Facility Commissioning of the Proposed Community Recreation Center in the amount of $46,100. • Adopted Resolution No. 1478 to proceed to update the Township’s Capital Improvement Program 2008 to 2012. • Adopted Resolution No. 1479 authorizing the Township to renew multi-year agreements with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for comprehensive road maintenance and winter maintenance for snow and ice control on Commonwealth of Pennsylvania roads within the Township.
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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.
Deer Management Update The Township has partnered with Whitetail Management Associates and contracted with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an alltime high number of reported deer vehicle collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts and last year saw the reported accidents drop to 133. The deer population in some areas of the Township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in other portions of the Township there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level. The Township has been fortunate to have residents assist the Township efforts by offering private property for the culling programs. Residents who would like consideration for inclusion in private property culling for the Deer Management program should contact Debi Bakowski, Township personnel, at 412-831-9000. n
2007 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.
Code requirements concerning animal control can be found on the Township website at www.twpusc.org.
2007-08 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Thanksgiving Day Friday, November 23 (Delayed one day) Week of Christmas Friday, December 28 (Delayed one day) Week of New Year’s Friday, January 4, 2008 (Delayed one day)
• 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.
Visit the Township’s website www.twpusc.org
2007 Fall Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place the following three Saturdays: November 10, and 17, and December 1.
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Boyce Mayview Park—an Overview Paul Besterman, Director, Recreation and Leisure Services
Boyce Mayview Park Timeline • Mid 1980s – Boyce Park portion was acquired from Allegheny County. • 1993 – Master Site Plan was studied for the Boyce section of the property. • 1997 – Mayview Farm portion was acquired from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. • 1997 – WRT was hired to help USC develop a Master Plan for Boyce Mayview Park. • 1999 – Master Plan was adopted by the USC Board of Commissioners. • 2000 – A $2,000,000 grant was received from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. • 2002 – Regional Environmental Education Center opened. • 2004 – Comprehensive Plan Questionnaire was sent to all Township residents containing questions specific to the Community Recreation Center. • 2004 – Board of Commissioners authorized the completion of a Boyce Mayview Park-wide Pre-schematic Plan. • 2005 – Board of Commissioners authorized the development of four playing fields (two baseball/softball and two football/soccer fields). • 2005 – Ballard*King and Associates was hired to complete a Community Recreation Center Financial Feasibility Study. • 2005 – Forty-seven member Community Recreation Center Ad Hoc Advisory Committee was created. • 2006 – Larsen Architects, WTW Architects, and EPM Architects were hired to design CRC. • 2006 – Core Team was created to refine the CRC components. • 2006 (September) and 2007 (May) – Invitations were sent to every household in USC for meetings to review and receive updates on the CRC project. • 2006 (October) – Fee Structure Task Force was created by the Board of Commissioners. • 2007 (September) – Board of Commissioners authorized bid process to proceed. • 2007 (November) – Bids to be received and considered by Board of Commissioners. • 2009 – If approved, CRC is scheduled to open.
Boyce Mayview Park, as seen from Skyridge Road
In January 1997, the Township of Upper St. Clair purchased
a 240-acre tract of land from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania known as Mayview Farm, which adjoined to the existing Boyce Park. As a result, the total acreage of the Boyce Mayview property is more than 470 acres. The Boyce portion of the land was acquired in the mid 1980s from Allegheny County with the expectation that the Township would develop the property, facilitating regional access to culture, recreation, and educational activities. A Master Plan was completed and adopted by the Township of Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners (Board of Commissioners) in December of 1999, and a Park-Wide Pre-schematic Plan was completed in 2004. The Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC) began its operations in 2002, and the Board of Commissioners authorized the construction of four playing fields (two baseball/softball and two football/soccer fields) in 2005. In 2005, Ballard*King and Associates was hired to complete a Financial Feasibility Study for a new community recreation center in the Township. An Ad Hoc Advisory Committee was formed in 2005 to help create a “community recreation center” concept that would meet the needs of the community. Resulting from the committee’s findings, a report was submitted to the Township in October 2005. In 2006, a Core Team was created to help refine the Township’s future community recreation center. At this time the Board of Commissioners hired Larsen Architects, WTW Architects, and EPM Architects to help design the Community Recreation Center (CRC). Every household in the Township of Upper St. Clair was sent an invitation to review the project in September 2006. Again in May 2007, every household was sent an invitation to attend a community-wide update on the project. Much valuable input was received from residents who attended these meetings. A Fee Structure Task Force was created in 2006 and submitted its report to the Board of Commissioners to help define the costs for membership to the CRC. The project bidding process has been approved by the Board of Commissioners and a response and vote on those bids are expected in November 2007. The CRC is on schedule to open in 2009. n
ARAD Commits to Boyce Mayview The Township of Upper St. Clair thanks the Allegheny Regional Asset District (ARAD) for its generous support and commitment to Boyce Mayview Park. For 2007, ARAD has pledged $500,000, including $200,000 for capital improvements and $300,000 for operational spending. This grant will help with improvements for Boyce Mayview Park’s perimeter trail, interior trails, maintenance, and fields improvements. n 30
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
T Highlights of Public Works Projects The Upper St. Clair Public Works Department was
busy on a number of projects. The following are a few examples of what the crews were working on over the summer into the fall season. n
As part of the street resurfacing prog ram, shown here is Willowbrook Road after paving.
struction
cession facility under con
Boyce Mayview Park con
The dugout at the large baseball field in
The dugout at the small baseball/softball field in Boyce Mayview
Boyce Mayview Park
Park The 222-foot softball field in Boyce Mayview Park
stand, restrooms, and storage facility The soon-to-be completed concession e Mayview Park. This facility will be Boyc in field all baseb large the located at baseball used for games played at both the large and smaller baseball/softball fields.
The second of three wooden brid
ges in Wiltshire Park
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USC Library Books to Brighten Your Holidays A Christmas Beginning Anne Perry
Where Angels Go Debbie Macomber
The New Year’s Quilt Jennifer Chiaverini
The Christmas Promise Donna Van Liere
The Last Noel Heather Graham
On Strike for Christmas Sheila Roberts
Late Fall Programs for Adults Crafts by Evanovich: Wreaths for Your Door Wednesday, November 14 Holiday Memories for Your Children Thursday, November 15 Today’s China: World Affairs Council Thursday, November 29 Do you have an idea for a program? Let the library know. Call 412-835-5540 or fill out a program suggestion form located across from the library’s adult circulation desk. 32
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Can We Talk? William Deibler The Township of Upper St. Clair Library meeting room may
lack the ambience of a Left Bank drawing room, but when members of the Township’s Conversation Salon get together their discussions are as intellectually stimulating and entertaining as any Parisian gabfest. The recently formed USC Conversation Salon is part of a growing nationwide movement to bring people together who enjoy taking part in serious discussions and exchanging ideas and opinions. Conversation salons have existed in one incarnation or another since the days of ancient Greece when artists, dancers, poets, philosophers, musicians, and historians regularly gathered in the homes of Athenians to keep in touch and exchange ideas. In fact, Cicero, writing in 44 B.C., set down a set of rules for good conversation: speak clearly; speak easily but not too much, especially when others want their turn; do not interrupt; be courteous; deal seriously with serious matters and gracefully with lighter ones; never criticize people behind their backs; stick to subjects of general interest; do not talk about yourself; and, above all, never lose your temper. The salon, as we understand the term today in the sense of a conversation salon, originated in 17th century France where participants developed conversation into an art. Parisian salons were not meeting places for people to exchange frivolous gossip. They were serious working spaces, where new ideas could be explored and where curiosity about the latest inventions—musical, scientific, or literary—was encouraged. The French salon tradition spread to the rest of Europe. By the 19th century and the early part of the 20th century, conversation groups and discussion circles had formed in many European cities, including Berlin, Amsterdam, Prague, and Madrid. Into the 20th century, salons became a regular part of the American cultural landscape. Following the example set by the American expatriate Gertrude Stein (who was born in Pittsburgh) in her Saturday evening gatherings in Paris, many Americans began hosting discussion groups. America’s most famous salon arguably was the Algonquin Round Table, a daily luncheon gathering at the Algonquin Hotel in New York, which started in 1920 and ran for more than ten years. It was composed of a group of writers, editors, and wits, most notably Dorothy Parker, Alexander Woolcott, Heywood Broun, and Robert Benchley. Conversation salons are designed solely to preserve conversation as an art and encourage the exchange of ideas and opinions. They are not book clubs or political action groups. Members do not lobby for causes or organized actions, and they do not take stands for or against issues or beliefs. They are not affiliated with any political or religious organizations, and they are not debating societies, adult education classes, or self-help groups. Members of the group select the subjects they wish to discuss. Discussion topics are chosen from such diverse sources as current events, the arts, social and cultural issues, politics, ethics, science, entertainment, and technology. Topics explored at recent meetings include immigration, separation of church and state, and education issues. There is no pre-set agenda, just an agreed upon topic. No advanced reading is required. Lee Boyd, trained by the Allegheny County Library Association, serves as discussion facilitator, keeping conversation moving and on topic. The Township’s Conversation Salon meets on the first Friday of the month from10 a.m. to noon. There is no charge to join and all adults are welcome. Contact the library for further information. n
T Children’s Library Summer Reading 2007— Thanks to all who helped!
Dogs in the Library!
Summer is an important time in the children’s library. This year the library had 456 children who par-
ticipated in the Ready to Read program and 712 children who participated in the Summer Reading program. Over 1100 weekly prizes were won by the Ready to Read participants and 100 large prizes were given to the Summer Reading participants. In addition, the children who participated in these programs were given countless coupons from local businesses. The Upper St. Clair Township Library and its children’s library staff would like to especially thank The Friends of the Library for their continued financial support. Without the Friends, Summer Reading could not happen. Library staff also thanks the following sponsors for their contributions towards the library’s summer programs. n
Get a Clue @ USC Library Summer Reading 2007
Every summer the children’s library offers programs for kids of all ages
to encourage reading. This past summer the library was fortunate to have four wonderful volunteers: Black Labs, Molly and Piper, and their handlers, Rona and Norman Pookman. On Monday and Tuesday afternoons you could find the four of them in our story room listening to boys and girls reading. Molly and Piper were the highlight of our early literacy programs: I’m Going to First Grade and I Love to Read for kids who have completed first and second grades. Reading aloud is an important tool in learning to read fluently. The library staff encourages parents of young readers to have their children read aloud to an appreciative listener. The dogs provide a non-critical, supportive audience for new readers. Bringing dogs and young readers together can help create confident readers who enjoy reading. Rona and Norm Pookman are volunteers for Therapy Dogs International. The dogs and their handlers were specially trained for this work. Many residents know Rona from her years as a kindergarten teacher in the Upper St. Clair Schools. If you missed your chance to read to Molly and Piper, they’ll return as part of More Than a Story in January. n
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USC-USTC The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair
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 from 10 a.m. to 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! 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. 34
Ruth Cole–Last Original Member of the United Senior Citizens It is with sadness that we report the
death of the last original member of the USC-US TC. Ruth Tharp Cole, a resident of Rolling Meadow Road, passed away on August 14 at the age of 96. She remained an active and committed member of the group, regularly attending meetings through August 8. Many of the organization’s favorite recipes are Ruth’s, and the group would like to share them with the community as a tribute to her. n
Macaroni Soufflé
Poor Man’s Stroganoff
Ruth Cole
2-3 cups cooked noodles. Brown together 1 lb. ground bee f and ½ cup chopped onion. Mix together 1 can tomato soup, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, and 3-4 Tbsp. sour cream (or more). Mix all ingredients together and put into 9"x13" greased pan. Top with slices of cheese or grated cheese. Bake at 350ºF until safe temperatur e is reached and stroganoff is brown on top.
Ruth Cole
1 cup uncooked macaroni 1½ cups scalding milk 1 cup soft bread crumbs ¼ cup melted butter 1 pimento, minced 1 Tbsp. parsley 1 Tbsp. chopped onion 3 eggs, beaten 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese, divided (can substitute Velveeta) Cook macaroni; put in a 9"x13" greased pan; set aside. Mix vegetables and half of the cheese. Pour hot milk over breadcrumbs. Add butter, then vegetables and half of the cheese. Add beaten eggs. Pour mixture over macaroni. Top with remaining cheese. Bake at 325ºF for 50 minutes.
Potato Soup Ruth Cole (edited by Amy Kerman) Note: This recipe serves a crowd!
20 pounds of potatoes 2 bunches celery 2 lbs. carrots (or more) 3 medium sweet onions salt 2-3 quarts milk 2 lbs. Velveeta cheese Chop potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions into large chunks. Place in large pot. Use barely enough water to cover. When tender, mash some of vegetables, leaving some in pieces. Add milk; bring just to a boil. Add cheese. Stir constantly until cheese is melted, but do not boil. Top with fresh parsley.
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 2007
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More on Ruth Cole Betsey Krebs, member, USC-USTC
Ruth Tharp Cole
One of the most devoted women to the United
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair (USC-USTC) was Ruth Tharp Cole. She rarely missed a meeting. Her contributions to this organization were innumerable during her long life. It was a pleasure having Ruth in the kitchen helping with our weekly luncheons. She enjoyed being there, gave beneficial suggestions, and regularly helped until her legs and feet could no longer handle the demands of food preparation. Her potato soup was superb! (See recipe on page 34.) Ruth suggested and helped with programs using the talents of the membership such as members speaking about their own lives and backgrounds, and bringing in members’ pictures from their younger years and having the membership guess who they are. She suggested a program on aprons for women and men, which proved most enjoyable. She enjoyed playing bridge in her later years when she began to have difficulty standing. This most gracious woman had many artistic talents. She was a quilter. She encouraged us to make a hanging quilt and then suggested we raffle it off, using the money to benefit our voluntary organization. When a representative of the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts attended our weekly gatherings to give a program, Ruth would be there learning and making a lovely water color painting, an exquisite piece of jewelry, or a home decoration. Ruth was most independent; she had no family close by. But, by being organized and having a clear mind she managed to live in her home and to drive to familiar areas to do what she needed. She enjoyed afternoon tea and cookies with her neighbor. A most wonderful Christian woman, she was a longtime devoted member of the Dormont Presbyterian Church, and she was very helpful with functions held there. She spoke of her association with the Dormont New Century Club and the many years she spent with this group. Ruth helped develop USC-USTC’s lovely prayer song to the tune of Edelweiss. We miss Ruth, and we will miss everything she so generously contributed to our lives. n
FALL HEATING SYSTEM SUPER TUNE-UP Pawlak’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning 412-831-1922 www.onehourair.com
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One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is offering a $1,000 rebate on the installation of an efficient new system, with no payments for twelve months with approved credit. Call One Hour at 412831-1922 or log on to onehourair.com
Coupon must be presented at the time of service. Cannot be combined with other coupons, offers or promotions. Coupons expire November 30, 2007
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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.
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8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow. They are for your safety.
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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.
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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.
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6. The Township cannot recommend contractors or companies that provide 36
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:
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
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 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. 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.
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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.
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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. 6. Walks will be cleared at the Township building and tennis bubbles as soon as possible. The Recreation Center schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities. 7. Excessive snow may require opening of inlets or location of fire plugs.
USC Department of Recreation and Leisure Services Offers an Alternative to Watching it Snow The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services
is pleased to offer several programs in the upcoming months. Check out the following three classes—you’re sure to find something to do this winter! Contact the Recreation Department at 412-831-9000, extension 256, for additional information regarding fees and locations or check out the Fall/Winter Program Brochure on the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org/rec. Rather than watching it snow this winter, get involved, try something new, or enjoy something tried and true all through the USC Department of Recreation. n
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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 for even more fun! Instructor: Days: Dates Time:
Cherie Dixon Fridays November 9, December 14, January 11, February 8, March 14, and April 11 6 p.m.-midnight
Perfect Pierogies Welcome to a hands-on pierogies workshop. Learn how to make the dough and fillings, roll and pinch the dough, and cook and serve them. Find that rolling pin and apron, then join in the fun! Instructor: Date: Time:
Karen Boston Sunday, February 10 1-4 p.m.
Mediterranean Cooking Impress your family and friends with a wide selection of fabulous recipes! Learn how to make simple, nutritious, and delicious Mediterranean dishes—appetizers, tapas, soups, and entrees from Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Lebanon. Sign up for one week or all four. Remember to bring your appetite and your favorite bottle of olive oil! Instructor: Days: Dates: Time:
Candan Otkeren Tuesdays February 5, 12, 19, and March 4 6-8:30 p.m.
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Tri-Community South EMS Awarded 2007 Ambulance Service of the Year
At the award presentation are, left to right: Tri-Community South employees Becky Drudul, Chuck Bryan, Phil Vargo, John Bower, and Jim Gmiter; Sue Adams from Cardiac Science; Tri-Community South employees John Brewer, Nora Helfrich, and Randy Eshelman; and Joe Schmider Director, Bureau of EMS, Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Tri-Community South EMS (Tri-Community) was
honored by the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Systems Council (PEHSC) as the 2007 Ambulance Service of the Year for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The award was presented at the PEHSC annual conference in Lancaster on April 18. TriCommunity was recognized for its many accomplishments in 2006-07 and throughout its 29-year history. Tri-Community remains Pennsylvania’s most active community training center of the American Heart Association. Tri-Community was the second emergency medical system in Pennsylvania to be accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Ambulance Services
(CAAS) and has been awarded numerous recognitions including the Pittsburgh Critical Incident Stress Management Team, the National Center for Early Defibrillation (now known as the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association), and the Center for Emergency Medicine. In presenting the award, PEHSC President J. R. Henry and Pennsylvania EMS Director Joe Schmider noted that Tri-Community’s accomplishments are possible because of the dedication and tireless efforts of the system’s entire staff starting with its director, Nora Helfrich. Tri-Community’s success also speaks well of the citizens and municipal officials of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park who continue to support, and even demand, a municipally-owned and operated EMS system in order to ensure the closest possible working relationship between the EMS system and the community. The PEHSC was founded in 1974 and became the official EMS advisory body to the Pennsylvania Department of Health in 1985 with the passage of Pennsylvania’s EMS Act. As an advocate for its diverse member organizations, PEHSC’s ultimate purpose is to foster improvements in the quality and delivery of emergency health services throughout the Commonwealth. n For more information on the PEHSC award or any other questions, call Tri-Community South EMS at 412-831-3710 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit their website at www.tcsems.org.
Tri-Com to the Rescue Nora Helfrich, Director, Tri-Community South EMS
Friday the 13th (of July), normally an unlucky day, turned out to be a lucky one for a mother duck and her babies. The mother duck was found screaming and running in circles at the end of the driveway at the Tri-Community South EMS base on Progress Boulevard in Bethel Park. When TriCommunity personnel investigated they found the reason—her babies were stuck in the sewer! A successful rescue reunited mom and her babies unhurt. n red the personnel ente Tri-Communityscue the ducklings. to re
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Reunited once more, the mot and her babies are escorted her duck to safety.
sewer
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
The duck family waddles
off for more adventures.
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Candy Pass Out— a USCVFD Tradition
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Honest Santa, we’ve been good
Santa’s annual trip through Upper St. Clair Township, perched on top of
a fire truck, has become a favorite winter holiday tradition. Residents young and young-at-heart eagerly watch for Santa and his volunteer firefighter escorts as they pass out candy for the kids each year. Like most traditions, there is a rich history behind the USCVFD’s candy pass out. Ray Tomnay, a firefighter with over 25 years of department service, thinks that the tradition of escorting Santa through the Township started back in the 30s or 40s. Two trucks were used for the detail, with members returning to base after dark. Over time, more trucks were added so Santa could make it through the entire Township while it was still daylight. More recently, “Santa Control” was added to answer phone calls asking when Santa would be arriving in their neighborhood. The lollipops that are passed out are the same brand that has been purchased for as long as anyone in the department can remember. When a local distributor stopped carrying the lollipops, the department
Was Township Manager Doug Watkins sure. naughty or nice? Only Santa knows for
made arrangements with the manufacturer to buy the candy directly from them. In addition to candy, there is a small gift for adults, as well as dog bones for the good dogs in the Township. Tomnay said that over the years the event has evolved into neighborhood social gatherings, with residents taking photos, and offering cookies, coffee, and hot chocolate. The firefighters love pulling into a neighborhood and seeing everyone waiting for them and their special passenger. Older residents might be seen standing at their doors, while younger children can be seen jumping up and down, often holding banners and signs. Parents and grandparents usually have their cameras in hand to capture the moment. Over the years, Santa has seen his share of excitement. One year, a member hit the brakes on the truck a little too hard and
Whispering wishes to Santa
Santa slammed into the windshield. After some first aid, Santa continued on his route. The jolly fellow learned his lesson and now always wears a seatbelt! Firefighter Russell Rauch remembers a candy pass out about 15 years ago when a Deerfield resident was cooking something on the stove as Santa reached their neighborhood. The entire family left the house to visit with Santa and the firefighters, only to discover that their kitchen was on fire when they went back inside! Santa, a volunteer firefighter at the North Pole, helped the Upper St. Clair volunteer firefighters extinguish the blaze. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 15, the date of this year’s candy pass out, and be part of this fun Township tradition! n Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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T
Annual EMS Subscription Drive
The 2008 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, 2008, 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 January 8–22, 2008. 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. 40
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
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making the Fifth Annual Highmark Shop to Stop Thank you forDomestic Violence fundraiser for Women’s Center and Shelter at The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon a tremendous success! We can’t wait to see you next year!
With your help WC&S can continue to offer: • 24 Hour Hotline – 412-687-8005 • Shelter – secure and confidentially located • Legal Advocacy • Systems Advocacy – criminal justice and healthcare • Support Groups and Individual Sessions • Prevention Education For more information, visit www.wcspittsburgh.org, or if you are interested in supporting WC&S, please call 412-687-8017 X338. Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Ending intimate partner violence in the lives of women and children
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Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Simon Giftcards
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With so many people to shop for this holiday season, there’s only one gift that gives them all what they want—the Simon Giftcard.® It’s welcome at any Simon® mall and wherever Visa® debit cards are accepted, even on-line. It’s available in denominations from $20 to $500 and can be replaced if it’s ever lost or stolen.* Purchase your Simon Giftcard today.
Route 19 and Fort Couch Road, Pittsburgh, PA. Shopping Line® 412.831.2900 Handling fee applies. Terms and conditions apply (including an administrative fee of $2.50 per month beginning in the thirteenth month after the month of card purchase, and additional fees which may apply) and are available at participating Simon malls, on-line at www.simongiftcard.com, and in materials which accompany each card. The Simon Giftcard is issued by MetaBank or U.S. Bank National Association. *Some restrictions apply.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
“Tea for Two,” or Ten or Twenty Mary Lynne Spazok Queen Elizabeth II cordially invites you to the Rose Garden Tea at Buckingham
Palace. Held throughout the summer season, you and 7999 of your closest friends can delight in a tradition that began in 1860. Seize your passport, book a flight to Heathrow, and secure stacks of cash for this afternoon delight. The menu includes various tea sandwiches, bridge rolls, butter drip scones, fruit tartlets, and more; along with 27,000 cups of Maison Lyons Tea (private blend by Twinnings for the Palace Gardens) and 30,000 glasses of iced coffee or fruit squash. There is a pre-arranged guest quota list, so contact your palace-approved sponsor ASAP. Now be sure to request “Royal” tent seating reserved for high-ranking dignitaries and special guests. Attire for gentlemen is formal, while ladies show off a fanciful chapeau, proper gloves, and a demure, but fashion-forward afternoon dress. When the gates open at 3 p.m., enjoy a stroll in the Royal Gardens. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh enter at 4 p.m. along with other royals. Relish the ambiance, because at six the 408-foot buffet table is cleared, the gala concludes, and her Royal Highness departs to the refrain of “Hail to the Queen.” Before departing, I will enlighten you on etiquette faux pas including afternoon tea misconceptions. First, the term “high tea” is a misnomer used as a coverall for all teadrinking events. Although it sounds regal and lofty, “high tea” is actually dinner and tends to be on the heavier side. Afternoon tea is termed “low tea” because of its casual nature. Taken at a low or “coffee style” table, this gathering includes one of three menus. Tea with scones and jam is “cream tea.” A “light tea” includes tea, scones, and the addition of savory sweets. When hosting a “full tea” one must serve tea, savories, scones, sweets, and, of course, bread and butter sandwiches. Afternoon tea is an occasion one looks forward to with immeasurable anticipation for a perfect social occasion! Of course, we all know Chinese culture embraced tea early on. In jolly Old England, Queen Elizabeth I permitted trade relationships with the Far East via the British East India Company. Fast forward to 1626 in Paris when afternoon tea parties were a social must! The en vogue Madame de Sevigne, a society gossip who publicly chronicled the doings of fellow cronies, mentioned tea as a miracle cure for all maladies. Reported as well was the innovative trend of adding milk to tea by the Marquise de la Sabiliere. Fashionably, this ritual came to be known as the French touch. In 1662, the reign of Charles II was crucial to the expansion of the British Tea Company. By 1700, royals chose tea over ale as the preferred breakfast libation. During the second half of the Victorian period, haggard wage earners banished dainty finger foods. After a hard day of toil, they returned home to take pleasure in flavorsome tea, hearty meats, and fragrant fromagé. Thus, high tea evolved. Today, tea in the United States is utterly popular and more readily available than ever. If the tea occures in a formal setting, ceremonial etiquette requires putting your best foot forward. Dress fashionably (no beach attire, thank you!), be prompt, speak gently (no cursing, for heaven sakes!), listen carefully, and be sure to smile and nod. When served, always pick up your cup and saucer together. No clanging or clinking of the spoon, just swish. Milk is added after the tea is in the cup. If lemon is the garnish of choice, it must always be a slice, never a wedge. Finally, no slurping or gulping!
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Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
45
Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors
High School Grading Committee Update
School District News
A grading committee comprised of teachers and administrators met over the past several months to review grading
Mark G. Trombetta President 412-831-8543 2007*
David E. Bluey Vice President 412-835-6145 2009*
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2007*
Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*
Glenn G. Groninger 412-854-5345 2007*
Daniel A. Iracki 412-833-6882 2009*
Jeffrey W. Joyce 412-257-1704 2007*
Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2007*
practices at Upper St. Clair High School. The committee, chaired by Assistant Principal Louis Angelo, was formed by USCHS Principal Dr. Michael Ghilani to develop grading practices that offer consistency among teachers of all disciplines and classes. The committee met multiple times during the 2006-07 school year to discuss items such as student schedule changes, transcript documentation, testing procedures, cumulative grading, and more. This past July, parents, students, and high school administration gathered to review, discuss, and revise the committee’s proposed guidelines to develop a framework to be implemented this fall. The teachers were then given the framework to follow, and the students were informed of the guidelines during their class meetings with school administration and by their teachers. The committee’s guidelines established a framework for teachers to maintain consistent practices with other teachers of common courses. n
Welcome our new hires to the District for the 2007-08 school year.
Hail
Baker: Kelly Costa, Kathryn Gibson, Kathleen Kennedy, Brittany Moskovitz, Amy O’Korn Eisenhower: Kellie Costello, Merissa McMonagle (also at Boyce) Streams: Melissa Mancosh, Timothy Wagner, Jennifer Williams Boyce: Kathy Diener, Abdelkader Khila Fort Couch: Jessica Brickett, Michelle Senneway, Bradley Wilson High School: Stephanie Fisher, Michael Funfar, Giulia Gouker, William Corey Langley, Laura Marks, Timothy Sabram, Signe Steinbuhler, Jennifer Sunderland, Thomas Yochum Central Office: Amie Carpenter Bus Driver: Alfred Verzallesi
Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service.
William M. Sulkowski 412-221-9516 2009* *Date indicates expiration of term.
46 ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007 46 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Professional: Linda Boord, Rosemarie Brletich, Linda Graham, Christine Hack, Kathleen Kirsch, Ernie Koontz, Rona Pookman, Clark Remington, Beverly Richards, Rosemary Richardson, Elaine Rusnic, Myrna Wiese Classified: Janet Tucker Donet, Joseph Gates, Sarah Keller, Charlotte Klein, Maureen Larger Administrative Support: Nancy Kein Bus Driver: Harriet Neill, Ann Marie Quealy, Frank Shuster
Farewell
SD
2007 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame
Twelve of Upper St. Clair’s finest were honored on Friday, October 5 at the eighth annual Upper St. Clair High
School Halls of Fame induction ceremony. The newest members of the Halls of Fame were individually recognized during pre-game festivities before the Upper St. Clair football game against Canon-Mac. It is with great pride that we recognize the inductees of the 2007 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame.
Arts Hall of Fame
Academic Hall of Fame
Jacqueline Bayne
David Mathews an Harbaugh, ndricks, Rebecca Norm Left to right: Walter He ce Hammons ren Ter and s, wa Zir Sarah O’Brien
ch a “Marcy” Froehli Left to right: Marci nomos Jahn Co and Ponny
Daniel Mazzarini
Athletic Hall of Fame
Merel Hommen Wilson
Amy Lienhardt
Hochanadel
Nathan Meerstein
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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SD
Doctor K—the “Triple A” Man Wayne Herrod
Dr. Terrence (Terry) Kushner,
assistant superintendent of Upper St. Clair School District, is a big believer in the Triple A. Oh no, not the Triple A that starts your car engine! He is a believer in the Triple A that starts your kid’s brain—academics, arts, and athletics. According to Kushner, these three A’s are the core of the success of the District. “A lot of people know the successes of the USC athletic programs because they are much more visible and publicized in the local papers. However, if you walk the high school corridors where the three Halls of Fame can be found, you will see that in addition to the people honored in the Athletic Hall of Fame, the Arts and the Academic Halls of Fame are also filled with outstanding honorees. It’s an impressive group of successful people.” Some may not realize it, but the high school building design specifically incorporates three separate wings for arts, academics, and athletics. Although the school’s three exterior entrances are separate, once inside each wing flows to the next for an easy-to-follow building layout. Terry was the high school principal during the extensive remodeling of the building, which culminated in 2000. “It was a tremendous undertaking and quite challenging. Everyone (the construction team, the staff, and the students) pulled together to make the difficult facility transition work while school was in session. It went rather smoothly and the results are impressive,” said Terry. According to Terry, “Our School District is one of the most successful in the country. The reason is simple. Everyone—including staff, administration, students, and parents—places a high value on the importance of success. Upper St. Clair is very much a success driven community, and it shows in the high caliber of our community citizens 48
and their children who attend our schools. We also have a great bank of talent in our teachers and administrators. The wonderful results of these combinations show up in the classroom, on the athletic fields, and in all of our many arts programs. We are second to none!” “I have been fortunate to spend the last 22 years of my career in education at Upper St. Clair. The expected standard of excellence may be rivaled by other districts,
Dr. Terry Kushner
but never beaten. Here, everyone values education and embraces it. In addition, our District has always been innovative and remains well prepared for the future,” continues Terry. Dr. Kushner has been involved in education his entire career. “My dad was one of three main influential people in my life. He always stressed that education was a great career choice. I thank him for inspiring me. His influence also worked on my siblings—my brother is the principal at Brentwood Middle School and my sister is in special education in Maryland. I believe that we owe our career choices to our dad.” Dr. Kushner grew up in the Clairton area and then attended Colgate University, where he majored in math. He played football, which eventually became a large part of his adult life. At the collegian level, Terry was a starter for two years and played on the line. With his usual touch
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
of humility, Terry said, “I wasn’t very big and I wasn’t really very good.” Well, he was good enough to start for two years, and I bet he was one tough player if he put only half the energy into football that he puts into our District. In 1969 Dr. Kushner began teaching in the Moon School District with a starting salary of $6700. While there, he met the man he refers to as the second major influence in his life: Moon’s head football coach Rip Scherer. “Coach Scherer asked me to join him as his assistant football coach, and that move opened up a lot of opportunities for me.” Terry continued as assistant football coach at Moon for six years b e f o re b e c o m i n g Moon’s head coach for the following three. From there, he moved to Peters Township High School, where he again taught math and was head football coach for three years. The next stop on his career path was Trinity, where he made a move from the classroom to administration and once again was that school’s head football coach. Next up was Baldwin, where Terry was named assistant principal for two years before moving to Upper St. Clair. Along the way, he picked up both a master’s degree and a doctorate degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Terry has now been with the Upper St. Clair School District for 22 years, including nine as high school principal and the last four as assistant superintendent. Terry named Dr. William (Bill) Pope, former USC superintendent, as the third most influential person in his life and career. “Bill brought me to USC and I owe a lot to him for that. He gave me wonderful opportunities and taught me so much. Bill was innovative, creative, and hardworking. The most important thing I learned from him was that it is the children who are important. It’s because of the children
SD that we are here, and they are why we do may be worth more than that. what we do. I have tried hard to live up to This December, Terry and Pam will celthat philosophy every day. I believe that ebrate their 35th wedding anniversary. “My this District is one of the top districts in anniversary is on the same anniversary date the nation because of Bill Pope.” of Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception,” “When I was at Baldwin, I knew Terry to said Terry. I guess sharing this anniverbe a very hardworking individual who was sary date helps a longtime football coach exceptional with the kids,” expressed Bill. remember his special date a bit easier. The “When I accepted the job in USC as super- Kushners have two children: a daughter, intendent, I had the opportunity to fill a few Kristen, and a son, Drew, who both remain open positions and I in the local area. The convinced Terry to Kushners also have come here as well. one granddaughter, I wanted to hire the Maddie. best for this District There are a few and that is what I got more things you when I hired Terry. should know about I’ve never regretted Terry. In addition to that move for myspending time with self or for Terry. He’s his family, working, always had a heightand continuing to ened desire to help be an avid fan of Terry and Pam Kushner kids succeed.” athletics, Terry is a Joe DeMar, current principal of Fort humble, polite, and gracious person who Couch Middle School, was hired by takes pride in how he dresses. He is tough, the District as the Fort Couch assistant but always fair. I’m also adding hardworkprincipal and then became assistant high ing to the list. How do I know? Just drive school principal under the watchful eye of by the School District offices any weekday Dr. Kushner. “I owe a lot to Dr. K.,” said at 6:30 a.m. and you’ll see his car parked Joe. “He taught me how to organize and in the lot while he’s already inside setting delegate. He taught me how to be a leader, up his day. but he also worked closely with me and Terry remarked, “As I look back at what guided me. Oh, and he taught me about I’ve done over the years I would not change a meetings, and meetings, and more meet- thing. I might slightly alter a handful of things, ings! Seriously though, when he was the but I am very happy with how my career high school principal he would compare turned out. My dad told me long ago that if his staff to the New York Yankees who you find the right job you’ll never ‘work’ a were known to accept nothing less than day in your life. That’s how I feel about my first place. He demanded that in us. We career.” Summing up his work ethic and would refer to him as “our Billy Martin” dedication to both the School District and (former manager of the Yankees). But, Dr. this community, Dr K. is Upper St. Clair. K. was right. You may not always be the Dr. K., we realize that after 39 years best, but you should always work at being in the field of education that your career the best. And for me… I learned from the is much closer to the end than it is to the best. Thank you Dr. K.” beginning. We are fortunate to have had Family is very important to Terry. you work in Upper St. Clair for 22 of your When I asked him if I could shoot some 39 years, all the while stressing the “Triple photos for this article, he proudly walked A’s.” It’s been one marvelous ride! You have to the bookshelf behind his desk and touched and bettered thousands of kids handed me a photograph of himself and along the way, and you did it by putting his wife, Pam. “Is there anyway you can them first. use this picture?” he said. “It’s my favorSince Terry has not yet decided on when ite. I could never have accomplished in he’ll retire, I ask him to ponder the words life what I have without my wife. I’ve to this great oldie by Maurice Williams and always had her love and her support. Pam the Zodiacs: enabled me to put time into my job by Please stay, just a little bit longer. taking care of our family. And, just as imC’mon, c’mon stay just a little bit more— portantly, she’s always been there for me.” say that you will. n They say a picture is worth a thousand words. In Terry’s estimation, this picture
Winter 2007
USCHS Academic Wing
USCHS Arts Wing
USCHS Athletic Wing
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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SD
New Sports Physical Procedure
Beginning with the 2007-08 school year, the Upper St.
Clair School District is strictly following the new rules for sport physicals established by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). Some of the highlights follow: • A sport physical is valid for one year from the date of the medical examination. • If more than one sport is played, submit Section 5 of the sports physical form to the coach for each subsequent sport. • If your child suffers a serious illness or injury, you must complete Section 5 and the medical examiner must complete Section 6 for final medical approval.
USCHS girls’ volleyball
USCHS girls’ tennis
50
Two options for obtaining a physical are: • Private physician • NovaCare, 363 Vanadium Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 412-429-0885 (Call to schedule an appointment. Only $10 for USC students.) n
USCHS girls’ field hockey
ng
le School swimmi
Fort Couch Midd
The new sport physical forms can be obtained from the USC School District website by selecting parent information/athletics. Forms are also available in the Boyce, Fort Couch, and USCHS health and athletic offices. Sport physicals will no longer be given at school.
USCHS girls’ soccer
USCHS boys’ soccer
USCHS crew practices on the Allegheny River.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
USCHS football
SD
Staff Development— a Perfect Fit Karen Brown, Boyce Middle School Principal Have you ever sat in a large auditorium where the speaker was up
on stage giving a lecture? If you were a teacher in the lecture, chances are all you could think about was what you needed to do in your classroom to prepare for the next day. Like most school districts, this is the way the Upper St. Clair staff development program used to be conducted. But in 1995, a committee of teachers began to assess the needs of the professional staff and develop a program that addressed these needs. The program was based on the fact that all teachers do not always need the same professional development at the same time. A veteran teacher may need a more advanced skill while a freshman teacher may need more basic training. When it comes to technology, the reverse may be true. The history of professional development programs has traditionally been a one-for-all approach. One presentation, one speaker, or one activity was planned for all teachers and administrators throughout the district. Others refer to professional development as sit-andget sessions where passive participants were “made aware” of the latest ideas. In the 1970s and 80s, many switched to a make-and-take format, but again with only one theme. This is not to say that teachers have not been participating in professional development activities. A study by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) reports that 99% of teachers surveyed had participated in at least one of eight different professional development activities during the preceding 12 months. As a classroom teacher, a choice for staff development helps the educator to grow as a professional and take ownership of his or her learning. It allows the teacher to apply what has been learned. Research tells us that the days of large group presentations should be a thing of the past. They are not an effective use of resources or finances. In large, one-day presentations teachers never have the opportunity to study a topic or plan how to use it in their classrooms. The Upper St. Clair model of staff development has now grown into a
multi-faceted program. It meets the needs of the District, while allowing for individual growth. District initiatives are planned for the teacher in-service days. These initiatives have a common thread and continue for several sessions. There is time between the presentations to apply the learning in the classrooms. The program also offers evening sessions during five months of the school year to address individual needs. Many of our own staff members present the programs, while others choose to attend them. In 2001, the state of Pennsylvania implemented Act 48, which requires all teachers to recertify every five years. Teachers are required to earn 180 hours of professional development within the five-year period. Our professional development plan blended well with the state mandate. The in-service day offerings and the evening sessions were a perfect fit with the state mandates. The plan is to continue to develop the model and extend the evening offerings to District residents that have a teaching degree and to other school district teachers beginning in the 2008-09 school year. These educators would pay a fee to attend the sessions, and they could earn recertification hours. The income would then help pay for future professional development initiatives. More details will be available through USC School District’s website next summer. Achieving a comprehensive professional development program within a school district requires many partners. Administrators play a crucial role in this plan. Principals need to be an integral part to voice the needs of their staffs. School boards and teacher associations need to be actively involved. Using all these resources, a school district can provide many opportunities to influence the careers of teachers that will fulfill them both personally and professionally. “One size fits all” is a distant memory here in Upper St. Clair School District. We have a staff that continues to grow professionally and expand their educational resources, resulting in high quality instruction for the students. n Winter 2007
Kristy G. Cupelli D.M.D. Pediatric Dentistry
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411 McMurray Road, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412/831-3373 Fax: 412/831-3777 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
51
SD
Pawprints: A USC PTA Council Highlight of Our Schools
Council PTA Council is the umbrella PTA organization in Upper St. Clair that provides leadership and coordination for all the PTAs at the individual schools (units), grades K through 8. This year the Pennsylvania vision statement is “making every child’s potential a reality.” If you haven’t already joined your PTA, 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 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.
In October, Open House had many parents wondering how their kids did it as they listened to teachers outline a typical day. From the first sporting event of the season through the end of fall sports, Panther fans were the best! The parents of the junior class hosted October’s Homecoming festivities. Well-dressed couples, music, and dancing made for a fun-filled evening at the Saturday night dance held in the USCHS boys’ gym. Thanks to all who made so much happen in just a few months. Kennywood Day will be here before we know it, but there is still plenty of time to get involved at the high school. Come to the PTSO meetings, held the third Wednesday of every month, to find out what you can become a part of!
Fort Couch Middle School
Together in Parenting (TIP) provides support and education concerning difficult parenting issues. The community is invited to attend the following TIP presentation: A Parent’s Guide to Surviving Puberty With Shannon Dressler, USC School Psychologist for grades 5 -12 Thursday, November 15 at 9:30 a.m. in the Fort Couch Multi-Purpose Room Contact Diana Becker at 412-221-2710 or Andy Dugacki at 412-831-0779 with questions.
High School The PTSO worked hard all summer to prepare the 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. This year’s senior class enjoyed Senior Breakfast and the much anticipated Senior Cruise. As always, this event on the Gateway Clipper was a blast!
Members of the class of 2008 started the new school year with the traditional “Senior Cruise” on Pittsburgh’s three rivers. 52
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Learning a foreign language is more interesting with age-appropriate books.
Fort Couch plays hosts to a few new and exciting enterprises that offer its middle school students many opportunities. The foreign language department now offers a free voluntary reading library for French, German, and Spanish. Richard Platts, the energetic Fort Couch German teacher, asked the PTA to help with this endeavor. He writes, “The PTA’s contribution helped to build a foreign language library of age-appropriate books. Studies show that voluntary reading, the type of reading adults do for pleasure, helps students to learn a new language. They become engaged in a story and invest themselves in reading something that captures their interest. As we add titles to our library, we diversify our selections by adding different types of texts and different levels of reading difficulty.” Did you know that Fort Couch offers an online library catalog? The school’s library media center is open 24/7! Students can now access the school’s online card catalog from their home computers. Just go to the School District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us and select Fort Couch from the drop-down menu. From the Fort Couch page click on the library tab. The school’s online card catalog is called WebCollection Plus, and you’ll find the link on the home page of the Fort Couch library page. In addition to WebCollection Plus, students have access to the popular
World Book Online Reference Center and the Student Research Center. Both of these databases require a username and password. Your child can obtain this information at the library. You will also find a link to Access Pennsylvania POWER Library. This is a free database for all residents of Pennsylvania. To use POWER Library you must have a library card from the Upper St. Clair Township Library. Contact Robin Shoup with questions or for additional information at 412-833-1600, extension 3015. The seventh and eighth level science curriculum is going through some small changes. Homeostasis will be studied in seventh level and the students will be introduced to the cell, providing a basis for the genetics unit. The last nine weeks will combine Our Changing Earth with taking a look at man’s impact on the earth. The changes for eighth level will take place during the 2008-09 school year, where students will be introduced to physics in place of homeostasis. In addition to these changes, the seventh level is looking forward to an emissions program that is run by the Challenger Learning Center at Wheeling Jesuit University, a program which is partially funded by the PTA.
Eisenhower Elementary At Eisenhower, the cool weather of November brings an evening PTA meeting with delicious food provided by Market Day, a monthly fundraising program that is supported by Eisenhower families. Market Day offers a huge variety of preordered foods, which are delivered to the school, sorted by PTA volunteers, and then picked up on a designated evening by families that placed orders. November also brings second level students and their parents together for a social event outside the academic environment. Which grade will win the coveted First level also held its very Eisenhower Cup this year? own breakfast. Fourth level students and their families kicked off Eisenhower’s grade level family bowling competition. Every year all grade level students and their families compete with each other to achieve the highest bowling score. The grade level with the most points wins the school trophy! Check out Eisenhower’s website for pictures capturing the fun! In December, Eisenhower students “shopped ’til they dropped” at their annual Gift Mart. Third level students and their families participated in the bowling competition, and winter classroom parties kicked off the start of Winter Break. Several other exciting family and student events are planned for the upcoming winter months. There is always some fun happening at Eisenhower!
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Baker Elementary
Baker PTA has several events planned to help students and staff through the winter months! On December 6 and 7, Baker will be holding its annual Enchanted Shop for children to purchase gifts for family and friends. Winter Assembly takes place on December 19, followed by winter parties in the classroom on December 21. Baker starts the new year with its Family Read-In event on January 11. This year’s theme is “countries.” At the end of the month, there will be a family-fun activity on January 28, one of the District’s days off. Family-fun activities are events that are planned outside of school for Baker families to participate in, creating a heightened sense of community.
Boyce Middle School The holiday season fast approaches for students and staff at Boyce. In December, the sweet sounds of the band, chorus, and orchestra concerts will be heard. Last year it was standing room only, and a big crowd is expected again this year. The Open Mike series continues on January 24 and March 27. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents to ask questions and talk with principal Karen Brown and other staff members. The next Boyce PTA meetings are scheduled for January 9 and February 13. All are welcome!
Streams Elementary Streams celebrated its annual Stravaganza fundraiser by going “Shrek” green on October 19. The money raised from this event is funneled back into the school in the form of special level nights, Snuggle Up and Read, Junior Great books, and much more! n
Front row, left to right: Emma Tarcson, Logan Mielcusny; back row: Emily DeIuliis, Isabel Tarcson, Mary Claire Engel
Questions about PTA or PTSO?
Call Geralyn Austin (PTA) 412-833-3282 or Edyce Rizzi (PTSO) 412-835-6482.
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High School Receives Grant
Upper St. Clair High School has recently been selected
to receive a “Classrooms for the Future” funding grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The purpose of the grant is to increase student achievement and success by providing state-of-the-art equipment and enhanced teacher development in instructional technology. Students at the high school will soon benefit from this new program that supplements the traditional textbook and chalk and blackboard experience with an approach that uses computers, the Internet, and advanced technology. “We are continually trying to improve our technology infrastructure throughout the District and enrich the classroom environment with technology,” Raymond Berrott, Director of Technology, explains. “Classrooms for the Future funds will help to promote student learning and achievement through the use of advanced instructional technology.” Dr. Michael Ghilani, principal of the high school, adds, “Additional access to technology will improve classroom instruction, increase opportunities for learning, and strengthen student preparation for college.” Classrooms for the Future will provide laptops for students in each of the core subject areas over a two-year period, along with additional classroom equipment such as electronic whiteboards, video projectors, cameras, scanners, and printers. The program also includes funding for software related to each core subject area, extended professional development for the staff, and a technology coach to work directly with teachers.
High school students benefit from technology grants.
Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools at Upper St. Clair, commented, “I am proud of Mr. Berrott and the staff who prepared the grant proposal. This grant will ultimately affect the entire District’s technology initiative.” This year Upper St. Clair High School was awarded $500,000 for technology resources in English and math. The high school has applied for a comparable amount to provide similar resources in science and social studies for the 2008-09 school year. n
Looking for a Holiday Gift? The Upper St. Clair Alumni Foundation in con-
junction with Hometowne Designs has produced beautifully detailed, handcrafted reproductions of USC schools and the Home of the Panthers. Each piece also has a detailed history of the school building. The profits from the sale of the pieces go to support the mission of the Alumni Foundation, which is to organize the alumni of Upper St. Clair to support both social and educational activities and to establish funds to enrich and support the educational activities and non-budgetary programs of the Upper St. Clair School District. The foundation seeks to fund and support programs that go above and beyond what tax dollars provide, and allows graduates of Upper St. Clair to give back to their alma mater.
At this time, reproductions of Baker, Eisenhower, and Streams Schools, as well as Panther Stadium are available for immediate purchase. The cost for each school is $20, and the cost for the stadium, a limited edition of 200 reproductions signed by football coach Jim Render, is $25. The goal of the Alumni Foundation is to produce a complete series that will include Boyce and Fort Couch Schools, the current high school, and the old blue high school that was demolished in 1999. What a great way to support our schools and have a memory to display! Looking for a holiday gift idea? We may have found the right one for you. n
For more information or to purchase an available reproduction, contact David Wells (Class of ’81) at 412-833-9492.
USCHS Panther Stadium 54
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Streams Elementary
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6 + 1 = Writing Success! Dr. Judith Bulazo, USC Director of Professional Development and Elementary Education (K-4)
Second level students Kevin Stief and Rachel Liptak are learning 6+1 Writing skills.
Consider the following sentences:
“Teachers used to beg students to write well.” “Currently, innovative teaching professionals beseech their students to carefully include and assess quality traits in their compositions. The traits allow their writing to exude sensory details, portray interesting content, and create an exact picture in the mind of the reader.” The second sentence provides a more detailed example of what the writer is trying to express to the reader. What is making the difference? The 6 + 1 Traits of Writing! Elementary students in levels one through four will be experiencing a new approach to learning how to compose text. The new writing program, referred to as The 6 + 1 Traits of Writing, is the result of a curriculum recommendation initiated by USC’s elementary reading and language arts committee and Mary Quinn, USC Elementary Reading and Language Arts Curriculum Leader. This program will complement the current practice of conducting Writer’s Workshop as well as enhance content area expository writing. The approach behind this instructional program is a vocabulary and a vision that all teachers have of what good writing should be. This vision encompasses all genres and purposes for writing. The qualities of writing, or traits, that are emphasized include: ideas (content, the heart of the message), organization (internal structure, logical pattern of ideas), voice (writer’s style, writer’s convictions or feelings show), word choice (rich, colorful, precise language that moves the reader), sentence fluency (flow of the language, sound of word patterns), conventions (using grammar and mechanics with precision)—that’s six, and presentation (form and layout)—that’s the +1. This program was developed from the research on writing and assessment of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory
in Portland, Oregon. The advantages of using such a program have been documented by research and were reinforced by the experiences of Mrs. Quinn and her committee of teachers who piloted the program in the 2006-07 school year. The program provides a method of looking at the main characteristics of writing and assessing them independently from one another. The advantages to this approach allow for: • Shared understanding of what “good” writing looks like. • Common vocabulary to describe qualities of writing. • Assessing with consistency and accuracy. • Use of assessment results to provide meaningful feedback to students. • Alignment of assessment with instruction to enhance the teaching of writing.
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“Teachers have responded so positively to this approach and have been so thrilled with the results they are seeing in their students’ writing,” says Quinn. “Our pilot team of teachers worked diligently with the program and made many wonderful recommendations for ways to effectively train teachers to implement this program in all classrooms. Their work has been critical to this process,” she says. The reactions of the students have been equally positive. Teachers have reported that students appear excited when the writing lessons begin. Thanks to the elementary teachers who participated in the pilot of this program: Amy Cornali and Barbara O’Leary (Streams first level), Kathy Kuzma (Baker first level), Diane Ray (Eisenhower second level), Dorothy Moreau (Baker second level), Stacey Templeton (Baker third level), Jayme Solomon (Eisenhower third level), Maggie Hudson (Streams third level), Morgan Olsen and Carol Logan (Streams fourth level), and David Fee (Baker fourth level). n
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A Japanese Exchange Sheena Kapples, USCHS senior
Many people often wish they had
the opportunity to get in touch with their heritage, and fortunately I was given that opportunity the summer before my senior year at Upper St. Clair High School. During my junior year I was notified that the Youth for Understanding (YFU) USA organization was granting scholarships to individuals who wished to travel abroad. My mother, the Japanese teacher at the high school, told her students of the opportunity to visit Japan but no one was interested in writing the numerous essays involved in the application process. Because I was interested in the opportunity to explore my Japanese heritage and learn more about my mother’s native culture, I spent time writing essays and gathering recommendation letters and official paperwork. After surviving an interview and months of waiting for news about the application, I received a letter informing me of my acceptance by YFU. I was granted a full scholarship by the Japan-U.S. Senate Student Exchange to travel to Japan for seven weeks. I received the official documents notifying me of my flight plans and my host family three days before my date of departure. When June 14 finally arrived, I was ecstatic. I boarded the plane and with a final wave to my family, I departed for San Jose, California. I spent three days in California at a pre-Japan orientation hosted by YFU where I attended language and culture classes as well as a variety of funfilled activities to get the exchange students accustomed to Japanese culture.
In total there were 144 exchange students at the orientation. I was amazed at how close we became in three days. When we boarded the plane, we finally realized we were really on our way to Japan. On the plane ride we congregated near the bathrooms and near the flight attendants’ station to talk, so the 11-hour flight seemed to pass quickly. We landed in Tokyo and some (including myself) were transported to the Prince Hotel by bus. Some of the exchange students were in other hotels, while others were already at their host family’s houses. From my hotel room I had a magnificent view of the Tokyo Tower, and its splendid figure lit up my hotel room window for the two nights I stayed there. On my third day in Tokyo, I was separated from all but one of my fellow travelers as I made my way to my final destination in Akita, Japan. Akita is in the northern part of Honshu, the main island, and the climate was similar to that of Pennsylvania. When I arrived at the Akita airport, I was greeted by my host mother and my 12-year-old host sister, Nozomi. Within an hour of my arrival, I was sitting in the principal’s office at the high school I was to attend. I was so tired and hungry I just wanted to get to my host family’s house. When we finally arrived at what would be my house for the next seven weeks, I put my luggage in my room and was ushered out of the house to visit a neighbor. That night I met my host dad, who coincidentally shares my birthday. I was so exhausted after my first day in Akita.
Sheena (front row, holding sign) and homeroom 2-C at Nishikon High School 56
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Sheena, in front of
the Emperor’s Palac
e in Tokyo.
I arrived in Akita just in time for my school’s festival. On my first day of school, I visited all the classes and met my homeroom, 2-C. In Japan school is very different because students attend all classes with their homeroom. Another thing that is different is that students stay in their classrooms most of the day, while the teachers move to different classrooms. I attended school for four weeks and was scheduled for a variety of classes. I had numerous English classes where I helped the teachers in their lessons. Learning English in Japan is very different from the method we use to learn a foreign language in the U.S. In Japan they focus mainly on the reading and writing aspects of English, with students not speaking the language. Therefore, I was forced to speak Japanese all the time. Because of this linguistic immersion, my Japanese speaking and writing skills improved a great deal. Other classes I attended included calligraphy, art, cooking, math, geography, and Japanese modern literature. The only class I could not understand was Japanese modern literature, but I was not alone. The students in my classes could not explain the text to me because they also could not understand it. In Japan, students are in charge of cleaning the school and keeping it neat. Everyday after classes, students are assigned a cleaning job. Students do everything from moving desks and sweeping floors, to removing chalk from the erasers, cleaning windows, and taking out the garbage. Since keeping the school clean is the responsibility of the students, they feel as if the school belongs to them and they have pride in the school building and its possessions. The hardest part about attending school in Japan was the 20-minute bike ride I took to school everyday and the same return bike ride home. I am not very athletic, and
prior to traveling to Japan I had not ridden a bicycle for almost two years. The daily 40-minute ride to and from made my poor butt very sore, and sitting was painful for the first week. Overall, I enjoyed this Japanese school very much and I made many new friends. I even went to a local beach with some of them when school was out for summer. I attended school until July 24. After school ended, my host mother, Nozomi-chan, and I attended a camp in the adjacent prefecture. It was very exciting and I enjoyed hiking through the mountains. In addition to camping, during the seven weeks I was with my host family I visited many places. I had the opportunity to visit the Namahage Museum. (The Namahage are scary demon-like figures that are famous in Akita.) I even put on a Namahage costume while there. My favorite places to visit were the onsen, or hot springs. They were beautiful and relaxing, as were some areas of the beach. I swam at the beach once with my host family, but most of the time when we went there we collected seashells.
Sheena performing the Japanese tea ceremony in tea club.
My experience over the summer helped me get in touch with my Japanese side and really appreciate my mother’s culture. Traveling alone over the summer taught me to be independent and responsible. I will never forget the wonderful memories I created while in Japan and hope that others will also have the opportunity to travel abroad. Next year when I visit my relatives in Japan, I know I will be able to better communicate with them and I will appreciate my Japanese heritage more than ever. n Sheena is the daughter of Larry and Junko Kapples.
WBKR Community Partnership
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Leading and participating in WBKR are, left to right, front row: James Blair, Karly Roberts, Ellie Hardwick, Natalie Villella, Liz Vargo, Joe Pateras, and Michael McCombs; back row: Kristin Senay Rose (Baker counselor), Pat McShane, Ramy Nubani, Jillian Gaygan, Matt McClintock, and Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf (Baker principal).
meetings, the students had the opportunity to station WBKR, Channel 5. This news station learn what a “day in the life” of a reporter on offered the Baker community an opportunity television is truly like. Lori shared a behindto watch all announcements being broadcast the-scenes video detailing everything from to each classroom, both morning and after- writing the story and arriving at the scene, to noon. The announcements include the basics recording and editing tape prior to broadcast. of weather, lunch menu, birthdays, and special She even helped make Baker’s news script school related updates. The students and staff more enticing and professional. Edmund enjoy watching their peers on television as shared stories of being able to go live at any they provide all Baker friends a glimpse of the moment to analyze what just happened during day and upcoming events. All broadcasts have a football game. Jack Massaro shared details of being able to ad lib as nectwo student reporters from essary when an important the fourth level who are ready detail needs to be added or to to report live each morning keep an audience interested. and afternoon. These stories and experiences In addition to the daily have helped the students gain news, the WBKR Broadcast a better understanding of Club was created and is coorbroadcasting. When there is dinated by Kristin Senay Rose, not a special guest, students Baker’s guidance counselor. participate in many activities This club makes available the to gain confidence for upcomopportunity for the fourth ing debuts on television or level students to gain various working behind the scenes. communication skills such The students enjoyed as public speaking, technical the scenes is John Wallace, Keith Froelich who showed experience, and script writ- Behind a fourth level student last year. video clips of USCHS stuing. There have also been a variety of guest speakers from the Upper St. dents and their broadcasts. He also shared Clair community—USC families, USC alumni, some of the mistakes and obstacles that and staff and students at USCHS. Some of they’ve learned to overcome. WBKR has the guests have been Baker parent Lori Houy, hosted many student athletes during the celreporter for WPXI-TV; Keith Froelich, USC ebrations of Red Ribbon Week and Teamed high school teacher and coordinator of the Up Against Drugs. This partnership with the high school broadcast productions; Baker high school has made the younger students parent Holly Jones, founder of J. Wine more comfortable with future transitions Associates; Baker parent Jack Massaro, line and provided them with great role models producer for QVC; Baker parent Edmund in the community. As WBKR enters its Nelson, KDKA-TV Steeler analyst; and many third year, the students can look forward to many great special guests and community USC high school students. Baker students love to have special guests connections. We hope to see some of you at Baker on come in for their club meetings. When Lori Houy and Edmund Nelson hosted the WBKR! n In fall 2005, Baker Elementary started news
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Meet the Teacher
This issue of TODAY shines the spotlight on Fort Couch Middle School teacher Erin Nanci. This seventh grade language arts teacher has been with the District for nine years, and with the exception of student teaching at North Allegheny, all of her teaching experience has been at Fort Couch. Commenting that the time has gone fast, Erin emphatically stated, “I absolutely love my job!” She finds the students in the District well mannered and motivated to learn. “You can really teach them, and I love that.” Erin and her husband, Josh, make their home in Pine Richland, along with their two-year-old son, Jay, and their Staffordshire bull terrier, Cecil. Some days it can be quite a drive from her home to Upper St. Clair, but Erin said they are close to family there. In what free time is left between teaching and caring for her family, Erin enjoys gardening and planting things, working outside, camping, skiing, snowboarding, and reading. Read on to learn more about Erin. Name: Erin Nanci. School and subject area: Fort Couch, seventh grade language arts. Education: BS in nursing, Penn State University; MA in teaching, University of Pittsburgh. Favorite subject when she was in school: Psychology. Least favorite subject: Anything to do with social studies, history, or geography. Why she became a teacher: When Erin was in college, her roommates were education majors. By her senior year she realized that was what she also wanted to do. She finished her degree in nursing, but went right back to school for her master’s degree in teaching. What people might be surprised to know about her: Erin is a licensed registered nurse. Even though she never practiced as a nurse, she said that since she had the degree she thought she should take the licensing exam. n 58
Streams Update Dr. Claire Miller, Streams Principal Streams School kicked off the 2007-08 school year with a theme of
“Refresh, Renew, Recycle—Going Green Starts at Streams!” Activities related to this theme included an active paper recycling program organized by fourth level students, care for the new butterfly garden by all students, the Streams PTA Stravaganza with a theme built around the movie character Shrek, and visits by all students to the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC) as part of Left to right: Josh Koch, Michael Coliane, and Jake Kernan take a drum lesson from Don Pickell, USC band director. the School Wide Enrichment Program (SWEP I). The following are some Streams high- Kindergarten lights for selected content areas and grade The year began for all kindergarten students levels: with the My New School unit. This helped to Music Program make for a smooth transition from nursery • First level learned to sing, read, school to kindergarten. The children discussed play their first notes, and find out about Streams Elementary School, our classroom and composers like Sergei Prokofiev, who wrote community “agreements,” and our community Peter and the Wolf, and Camille Saint-Sëan, helpers. The first math unit discussed position who wrote The Carnival of the Animals. and sorting where the students used real life ob• Second level continued to develop their jects to solve problems. In reading, the students singing, reading, and writing skills by study- got to know their classmates through listening ing songs from around the world. Students and speaking. A new handwriting program is also studied composers such as Edward Greig being introduced and the children are enjoying and Peter Tchaikovsky. creating the capital letters. • Third level focused on instruments of Second Level the orchestra and were given the opportunity A favorite unit in second level is the to learn string instruments, including the Pioneer unit. Streams students visited USC’s violin, viola, or cello. In the spring, all stu- 1830 Log House and the Gilfillan Farm, and dents will learn to play the recorder as part made a trip to Meadowcroft Village, another of the curriculum. Pennsylvania resource. • Fourth level focused on jazz, study- Fourth Level ing jazz composers, and a look back in All fourth level students traveled to the time to the beginnings of jazz with com- Regional Environmental Education Center poser Scott Joplin and Ragtime music. (REEC) in October. While there, they made Because of this focus, students needed to connections to the land, water, and animal master more sophisticated rhythm and studies units in science. In the classroom, melody syllables. Fourth level also of- they constructed animal habitats and the fers its very own first vocal performing students were later able to adopt the animals group—the chorus. Look for concerts in and take them home. December, January, and May. Band instru- Band ments, including the brass, woodwind, and The band program for fourth level students percussion families, were also introduced. began with September auditions. Every fourth Physical Education level student was welcomed to come and audiPhysical education started the year by tion using band instruments to find out which encouraging students to develop a healthy instrument best suited each student’s needs. lifestyle through a wide variety of physical Band lessons are held twice weekly, once in fitness activities and games. Fourth level a small group setting and once with the full students have the opportunity to partici- band. Don Pickell, USC band director, is lookpate in an after-school intramural program ing forward to a great year and especially to throughout the school year. the first performance in December! n
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? DidPA Gove You Know? rnors School of Science participants Did You Know? PA Governors School attended the PA Governors Did High School studentsKnow? Upper St. ClairYou egie Mellon
Did You Did You Did You High School Teacher Did You Honored with Lifesaving Did You Award High school chemistry Did You teacher, Dr. Dom Frollini, Did You was recently presented with the Pennsylvania Fish and Did You Boat Commission Northwest Did You Region Lifesaving Award for his efforts in rescuing Did You a canoeist who had fallen Did You from a capsized canoe in the U.C. Reservoir. Dr. Frollini Did You helped drag the victim to Did You shore and performed CPR on the unconscious boater Did You until EMS arrived. Did You Did You Brand New at
Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know? Know?
Did You Know?
at Carn School of Sciences Scientific Symposium ents also spent five stud University this past July 26 and 27. The ed on research work weeks on campus, attended classes, and n Jin, Andreea Liyu , projects. Participating students Jessica Frey r Rahman, Oma er, Mill Manolache, Silvia Manolache, Cassie research their of rts and Varun Viswanathan presented repo lty. facu and projects before the entire student body
Lohman Competes at Summer Nationals High school senior Amanda Lohman traveled to Mission Viego, California, this past August to compete in the USA Diving Junior Olympics Summer Nationals. Amanda, the daughter of Robert and Deborah Lohman, competed against the top divers in the country, placing 18th in 1-meter competition, and 19th in 3-meter.
Amanda Lohman (center), with her mother, Deborah, and USC Commissioner Robert Orchowski, received a Township Certificate of Achievement for placing first in the 2007 WPIAL diving.
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Dr. Dom Frolini
USC! The USC Chamber Orchestra has been formed, rehearsing every Monday from 4 to 5 p.m . in the USCHS band room. Directed by teachers Paul Fox and Frank Eisenreich, the ensemble was unveiled in Sep tember for serious woodwind , brass, percussion, and string students in grades 8-12. Foc us on chamber music, concertos , solos, and student conductin g are planned. The group also serves as an “independent-stu dy band and orchestra” course (for academic credit) for a few of the students who could not enroll in one of the oth er larger ensembles.
USC Amends Policy for Student Attendance In accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s recently revised procedures relative to compulsory school attendance, the Upper St. Clair School District amended School Board Policy 6008 to reflect these changes. Among other requirements of Policy 6008, parents must submit a written excuse explaining a student’s absence within three days of a child’s return to school in order Beverly Curigliano, high school attendance secretary for the absence to be considered “excused.” Contact your school principal with questions or for additional information about the amended policy that more closely monitors school attendance. n Winter 2007
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Upper St. Clair School District Calendar 2007-08
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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, 2008, are eligible to register. School Area Date Baker................................................................................................................Tuesday, March 4 Eisenhower................................................................................................ Wednesday, March 5 Streams......................................................................................................... Thursday, March 6 Times for all........................................................................................... 9-11 a.m., noon-2 p.m. A special evening session for all elementary schools will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 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 25, 2008. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration.
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Gathering ’Round the Family Table Alicia Scott, Mia Cucina Personal Chef Service
When those of us who were born… For starters, families are getting togeththe hills of West Virginia, I could be gone how shall I say it delicately?… prior to the er from far and wide (over the river and from home for hours on end, preoccupied age of computers and the World Wide Web through the woods) to sit down together with any number of activities from piano think back on our childhoods, what do we for holiday feasts. We’re content, for the lessons to school play practice to playing remember with fondness? Could it be the most part. We’re happy to be catching up dodge ball in the neighbor’s yard. My long, carefree summers spent outdoors with one another’s news while enjoying parents encouraged the six of us children until our mothers called us inside for bed? each other’s company during this festive to participate in extra-curricular activi- (By the way, it was past 10 p.m., wasn’t it?) time of year. We’re even chatting with ties and through an open window they Could it be hanging out with our five or so exuberance to members of our immediate welcomed the sounds of the basketball “best friends” at the pizza shop after school family with whom we haven’t truly visited bouncing on a summer’s evening as well for a quick slice and a soda? Or, might it with for the majority of the year! We have as the repetitive (and often maddening) have been any variety of sports, music, or made togetherness a priority if only for a practice of the scales on the piano. But at academic endeavors that occupied our pre- few fleeting months. T h i s i s t h e w a y i t ’s approximately six o’clock supposed to be, right? Abon any night of the week, solutely! Most of us wouldn’t we were called to the family dream of missing Mom’s table for dinner. There were turkey and stuffing or in my no excuses, no exceptions. case, Grandma’s homemade The world waited while macaroni and sauce. We this Italian-American famput our day-to-day worries ily dined, sometimes with and activities on the promuch joyful noise or hot verbial back burner while discussion; sometimes in we sit down, thank God for a silence so deafening, it His abundant blessings, and rang in my ears. What we then eat, drink, and be oh-so ate and how long we sat at merry. Why then can we not that dining room table was do the same on a Tuesday not what shaped my sibAlicia Scott (center) with her parents, Charlotte and Charles Massinople. night in February? Maybe all lings and me into much of the “living” we’re jamming who we are today. It was the physical closeness of those dining room dusk time? But for most of us, there came into each day is tapping out our most prechairs, the sense of being an integral piece that hour (whether dreaded or not) when cious commodity—the family unit. With the new year looming in the notof something larger and complete—our we were home and sitting down to a meal, most basic need was fulfilled (to sustain be it meager or elaborate, conversing with too-distant future, maybe we’re already the body) while we ingested something those familiar faces with whom we shared thinking about ways to improve our lives in the coming year—to slow down a bit, much more satisfying than we could have our table. possibly imagined at the time. With the holidays all-too-quickly ap- to stop and smell those elusive roses. Fast-forward from the early 70s to proaching, we are already looking ahead to While we’re thinking about all we’ve ac2007. Today’s activities include piano hustling from store to store (or Website to complished this past year and all we hope lessons; dance instruction; soccer, foot- Website), the parties to throw or hope to to achieve in the new one, maybe more of ball, and baseball practice; karate; play attend, and of course, the food to be enjoyed these resolutions would be easier to attain practice; homework; and of course, play in abundance. Our celebrations with friends if each of us was more in tune with what dates. What did we do before we had no and family just wouldn’t be joyful without is truly important. If we were to wake up tomorrow with time left on our hands? There is no time the variety of luscious morsels adorning left for even 30 minutes to sit down to a festively cloaked tables. Food, after all, is the a choice to make—family or fortune— meal with those people we call “family.” I focal point of many a holiday extravaganza. what would it be? The choice would be believe that there are many families today This is all well and good, and we are merely an easy one if we imagined that dining that are experiencing this dilemma. And carrying on with an ancient ritual of meet- room table and those who sit around a dilemma it is, whether or not we realize ing, greeting, and eating. However, if we it. It is a simple and true statement: it. The very heart and soul of the family think objectively about this whole holiday family is our fortune, no matter how unit has most definitely taken a back seat thing, what are we doing differently during small in number or great in differences. to anything and everything else that steals this brief and bustling few months than we Even if it’s relegated to a few nights a week, gathering ’round the family our attention and time. do the rest of the year? When I was a child growing up in
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
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table for a meal is not passé, nor is it old-fashioned. It’s what our children will remember long after the dishes have been cleared away and the house is no longer their address. They might not remember what they ate, but you can bet they’re going to remember the feeling of comfort in that food. Their mind’s eye will seek out and retain that cozy and familiar scene from their childhood and teen years. They will remember those evenings, long since passed, of sharing with loved ones, a brief and beautiful moment at day’s end around the table… and they will feel special for having been there. Happy holidays! n
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News from Around the Township
Around the Township
The Trip of a Lifetime Maria Simon
On the first day of my fifth grade German class I learned how to say
hello, goodbye, and about the German exchange program that takes place at the high school. The trip sounded amazing and played a large role in my choosing German as my foreign language. Seven years later and now a high school senior, I got the opportunity to take part in the exchange, which sounded just as amazing in 12th grade as it had in fifth. On July 15, along with 13 others, I was dropped off at the Pittsburgh International Airport to take part in the German exchange program offered through Upper St. Clair High School, a goal that I had had since fifth grade. We had just graduated from USCHS the night before and were now getting on a plane headed to Germany. The trip, which was sponsored by the German American Partnership Program (GAPP), occurs every two years for juniors and seniors who take German at USCHS. The trip is planned and attended by Deanna Baird, a German teacher at the high school. This year, Richard Platts, a German teacher at Fort Couch Middle School, and Lauren Gates, the German teacher at Boyce, came on the trip as well. Normally, German students come to Upper St. Clair during springtime and then Upper St. Clair students go to Germany in the summer. This year, the Germans were not able to come to America because of interference with their testing requirements. Those of us who graduated in June, however, were still able to partake in half of the exchange, thanks to Frau Baird. Next year the trip will take place again, enabling students in both the class of 2008 and 2009 to enjoy the experience. For the main part of the trip (ten nights) we stayed in Leverkusen, a town outside Cologne. Before leaving Upper St. Clair we had all communicated with our German partners in some way or
American exchange students at the Berlin wall
another, but we were still nervous. We were going to live in a foreign country with people whom we had never really met. We would also have to speak German—a lot of German! After three flights and a train ride, we reached Cologne. We were expecting to take another train to Leverkusen, but our host families surprised us and met us in Cologne instead. This surprise, although difficult at the time, worked out better because it did not give us a chance to get more nervous about meeting our German partners. Although most USC students had one partner with whom they stayed during the ten-day visit, I had two and stayed with each for five nights. We did everything together, which allowed me to acquire a good understanding of German culture. Going to school in
Maria (center) and her German exchange partners
64 64 UPPER UPPER ST. ST. CLAIR CLAIR TODAY Winter TODAY Winter 2007 2007
Germany was interesting, especially English class. While we were only able to spend three days in school, we got a better understanding of what the German school system is like. The teachers at the exchange school planned activities for us almost every day. We took tours of Cologne and of Burg Eltz, a castle about two hours from Leverkusen. We went waterskiing, played soccer, and spent a day in Dusseldorf. When we weren’t doing planned activities, the group remained together. A favorite activity was going to see the movie Shrek 3 in German. It was strange to watch and listen to an American movie in another language. Eventually, it was time to say goodbye to our exchange partners, which was a hard part of the trip. Not only did we get to know the German students and their host families, but the Upper St. Clair students got to know each other better, also. Our next stop was Berlin where we fit in as much activity in three days as we could. We went to Berlin’s famous Pergamon Museum, which holds the Gates of Babylon and the Pergamon Altar. We also visited the Berlin Wall and Check Point Charlie Museum. It was awesome to experience Berlin, especially after we had spent much time studying it in German class. Next, we went to Zwickau for a threenight home stay. The host families were all members of a church that had visited a church in our neighboring Mt. Lebanon. We loved Zwickau and became very close to the host families there.
Where New Neighbors Become Old Friends 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 or who have had a significant life-style change. This group is designed to develop fellowship and acquaintances among new residents and also promote assimilation into the civic life and social activities of Upper St. Clair. USC Newcomer’s is a great way to get acquainted with your new community and meet new friends. The club offers many activities and special interest groups to choose from: book club, Bunko, mom and tots playgroup, family outings, and girls’ night out, to name just a few! To help you learn more about the group, the club invites you to one of its monthly welcoming coffees. Contact club president Lynne Amatangelo at 412-221-4424 or lamatangelo@verizon.net for more information. n
German students, American students, and teachers in Dusseldorf
We then left Germany and headed to Switzerland, where we saw the Alps. We went to the Jungfrau, the highest accessible point in Europe. To get there we had to first take a 45-minute gondola ride. When we got out, we were surrounded by snow, even though it was July 5! We then walked for about two hours before taking a 45-minute train ride to reach our destination, the Jungfrau. Our last stop was Munich, where we were greeted with the blue skies and white clouds that the city is known for. We spent a full day exploring, then ended up eating dinner at the Hoffbrauhaus. After three weeks abroad, it was time to go home. My trip to Germany (and the friends I made) was the trip of a lifetime and something that I will never forget. My fifth grade dream turned out to be just as amazing as I had hoped it would be. n
Woman’s Club Remains Active
Maria Simon, a 2007 USCHS graduate and daughter of Allen and Theresa Simon, is a freshman at Allegheny College in Meadville.
While many things change, some
USC Citizens for Land Stewardship USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (CLS), a local 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization, works to give a voice to environmental and land issues in the Township. Members have made many contributions to our community, including the following field work and outreach programs. • Audubon bird counts. • River sweep clean-up of McLaughlin Run and its tributaries. • Displays and programs at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. • Nature programs and hikes. • Support the cardboard and recycling programs. • Monitor McLaughlin Run water quality. To keep the community aware of local conservation issues, CLS provides education and communication projects including newsletters, an informative, up-to-date website, and timely presentations. For more information, contact the CLS at 412-831-3289 or visit its website at www.usccls.org. n
things remain the same. The Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair has seen recent changes, but remains focused on its mission to be active and viable in the Upper St. Clair community. This organization will be celebrating its 60th anniversary this coming year. “With the recent sale of our building on Edgewood Drive, the location of our meetings has changed,” said Shirley Tadda, USC resident and spokeswoman for the club. “We want the Upper St. Clair community and surrounding areas to know that we remain an active group for women, and we hope to build our membership. I have been a member of this group for 22 years and I have made many good friends over the years.” Club members are currently meeting monthly at Christ United Methodist Church in Bethel Park and welcome any interested woman to join them. n For more information, contact membership chairperson Janet Reid at 724-941-1567.
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Making Exercise Personal Baylee Gordon
Wait just one minute. Is it possible
that this blonde, blue-eyed svelte younglooking woman in a baby blue T-shirt and white jeans is a grandma? Well, yes! What’s more, USC resident Dee Barker, grandmother of four, is a wellknown businesswoman who has parlayed an extensive background in every exercise specialty into the Center for Specialized Exercise, which she operates with energy to spare. Drawn to her newly-expanded studio at the corner of Fort Couch and Washington Roads are sneaker-clad clients of all ages, shapes, sizes, fitness levels, and motivation. From ages eight to 93, a diverse group of exercisers climbs the stairs above Liberty Travel to put treadmills, weight machines, and their own body crunches to work in valiant efforts to get in shape. It’s also where they’ll find Ms. Barker, the 51-year-old center owner, reminding her clients that staying slim is simply a matter of “calories in, calories out.” Staying fit, however, is not quite that simple. For Dee, sensible exercise is the key to fitness—individualized exercise, that is. “Working out isn’t ‘one size fits all.’ It has to be based on individual needs, abilities, and interests—personal training with the accent on personal.” In that spirit, Dee requires a comprehensive one-hour assessment of each potential client’s strength, flexibility, body mass index, and general health before any client can begin exercising at the studio. She conducts each evaluation personally and then designs “the most effective customized program possible to meet individual needs and goals.” Programs change as needs change. Dee conducts periodic assessments to evaluate progress, which she considers “a key to progress.” So is motivation. That’s where Dee and her staff of certified exercise trainers come in. “It’s easy to be inspired by people with such passion,”says USC resident Buffy Hasco. A regular exerciser, she has, in turn, inspired her husband and three daughters to jump on Dee’s fitness bandwagon. The girls—Sophie (12), Emma (10), and Grace (8)—were part of a summer Kids’ CardioPush program. Like the adult Cardio-Push Buffy and husband, Michael, do together, it is an original Dee Barker innovation. 66
Left to right: Marcie Reese, Walter Hussing, Jeanne McNamera, and owner Dee Barker get ready to work out.
“Dee makes work fun,” says Buffy, whose daughters consider Dee a “rock star.” An exaggeration perhaps, but Dee can lay claim to having starred on national television. Her show, Aerobics Plus, aired on local stations through Health Television Network and attracted a local fan base. Most satisfying to Dee were the taped exercise programs she developed for transplant patients in conjunction with a pharmaceutical firm. Her video, Stars for Life, continues to reach patients from all over the country who can access it online. Those experiences were only two among many along the path from Dee’s roots in Winston Salem and Wake Forest University to her present life with husband, Bill, in the century-old home originally owned by Ruth Morrow (for whom Morrow Road is named). Scanning her resume may be exercise enough for the out-of-shape reader. It goes from nursing school and internships to the realization she didn’t want to stay in that
Clockwise from top left: Sophie, Buffy, Grace, and Emma Hasco workout as a family at The Center for Specialized Exercise.
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
line of health care. “I wanted to help prevent fractures, not treat them.” To that end, new graduate Dee took a job with Elaine Powers, which was then the largest workout facility in the world. With remarkable stamina and perseverance, she climbed the fitness ladder through Coopers Aerobic Institute (Dallas) and the American College of Sports Medicine (Indianapolis), ascending the Elaine Powers ranks from instructor to regional director for the firm’s vast east coast division. In that role, Dee opened facilities from scratch—scouting locations, hiring and training staffs, negotiating leases. The only female in management, she superceded the efforts of seasoned executives and grew the organization dramatically. And she accomplished all of this when she was only 26 years old. Since coming to Pittsburgh, Dee has opened a number of exercise studios where professional athletes work alongside senior citizens, young singles, and people with special needs. “It’s a salon,” says client and USC resident Marcie Reese who appreciates the variety among clients and sensitivity of the staff. “This is the friendliest, least intimidating program I’ve ever been part of, and I’ve tried a lot.” Other center regulars agree. Dee and staff are equally at home with youngsters as with seniors, like Walter Hussing. A young 93, he works out twice weekly, doing “a lot of kidding with the staff” between lifting weights and riding bikes. “I’ll stick with this as long as I can, and I feel better when I leave than when I come in.” For Dee Barker, who delights in the feedback, “feeling better” says it all and at any age. n
Needlepoint Today—
not Your Grandmother’s Hobby Jessica Hecht O’Brien
For some, the word needlepoint con-
What People are Stitching Today
jures up visions of grandma—glasses on, fixed in a rocking chair, endlessly picking away at a canvas with a needle and yarn. Needlepoint today is simply not your grandmother’s hobby. There is so much more to this glorious craft! Modern needlepoint has evolved from 13th century embroidery done on coarsely woven linen fabric with bone needles to the canvas mesh of today’s needlepoint. In early American culture, young women commonly created needlepoint or crossstitch samplers, which usually contained a blessing on their homes along with the alphabet and numbers. This rite of passage demonstrated not only the girl’s proficiency in stitching, but her literacy, as well. Today needlepoint is more than a proof of literacy. It is a fun, productive pastime that has even been shown to lower blood pressure. People interested in needlepoint can avail themselves of innovative new fibers, talented new designers, and fashionable wearable art.
Traditional finished needlepoint items are decorative objects, such as pillows, pictures, bell pulls, and brick covers. There are also many types of finished needlepoint that are for holiday décor, such as stockings, ornaments, and Judaic items. Wearable art is another innovative area of finished needlepoint products. There are so many new designs for needlepoint fashion items including shoes, belts, purses, headbands, and bracelets.
Tools to Get Started
The basic tools of needlepoint today are simple: a canvas (hand painted are the best) where the intersections are “stitch painted” to indicate which color is to be stitched over the painted intersections of canvas; fibers (traditionally wool or cotton) in endless color choices; and the various accessories needed to complete the project, which include needles, scissors, and a few additional items. Today there are hundreds of types of fibers to choose from, not to mention the variety of beautiful colors these fibers come in. Fibers range from natural sources such as cotton, wool, and silk to blended fibers (i.e. fibers made from silk and wool), and also totally manmade fibers full of engineered metallic sparkle. One of the more interesting innovations in the fiber arena are the “green” fibers— those made from renewable resources. There are fibers today that are made from 100% bamboo and others that are 100% soy. There are also fibers that are made with environmentally friendly dyes, such as those that are formaldehyde free.
Why Needlepoint is Special
All of the new fabulous fibers today are combined with stunning canvas designs and together create wonderful, personalized, unique needlepoint items. In our massproduced world, it is ever more special to make a “one of a kind,” an instant heirloom. Many people, including some from Upper St. Clair, create Christmas stockings for each of their children and grandchildren. People young and old have found great enjoyment in the social side of stitching. Needlepoint has become a great reason to get together for an afternoon or a “stitch night” where individuals bring their projects and work together while socializing. Needlepoint is a wonderful pastime that is rooted in historic traditions with many innovations in designs, techniques, and fibers. Recent creative changes to needlepoint have made the craft more creative and interesting than ever before. In short, needlepoint today is not your grandmother’s needlepoint! n
Jessica O’Brien grew up in Upper St. Clair and now lives in Squirrel Hill. She is an owner of Beehive NeedleArts, located in Mt. Lebanon. (See ad on page 41.) Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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USC Resident Tapes Segment for Network Reality TV Show The Style Network recently shot its hit show Split Ends at Domeniques hair
salon in downtown Pittsburgh. Show producers asked Upper St. Clair resident Lori Houy of WPXI-TV to be featured in one of the segments of this hair-raising beauty salon swap series. Each week on Split Ends, two hairdressers from different ends of the hair spectrum swap shops with one another and discover what it’s really like to walk in someone else’s shoes. In this show, Melanie Shelley of a swanky Nashville, Tennessee, salon comes to Pittsburgh and styles Houy’s hair in the one of the segments on the hour-long show. Shelley trades places with eccentric stylist Steven “Weaven Steven” Noss, a hair stylist from Domeniques in Pittsburgh. n
Simon Evening of Giving® at South Hills Village Offers Private Shopping, Exclusive Savings, Prizes, and Entertainment, While Helping Area Charities Holiday shoppers can get a jumpstart on
their gift lists while making a difference in the community on Sunday, November 18, when South Hills Village hosts the sixth annual Simon Evening of Giving®, a festive night of private shopping that benefits area charities. From 7 to 10 p.m., shoppers will enjoy exclusive store discounts throughout the mall, live music, family entertainment, and more. Here’s how it works. During the event, South Hills Village is reserved exclusively for shoppers who have purchased a Simon Evening of Giving ticket from participating organizations. Evening of Giving admission tickets are a $10 donation, with $7 benefiting the organization selling the ticket, and $3 benefiting the Simon Youth Foundation. Tickets are available at South Hills Village Guest Services, through more than 35 participating charities, or at the doors beginning at 7 p.m. on November 18. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Simon Youth Foundation’s mission is to foster and improve educational opportunities, career development, and life skills for at-risk youth. The Simon Youth Foundation was established by Simon Property Group, owners of South Hills Village. Karon Hammond, director of the Westminster Child Development Center, Route 19, Upper St. Clair, can attest to the community benefits of the event. “Parents who bring their children to the center may not realize the connection,” Karon says. “But the touch-screen of the child care 68
management system—offering even more security and convenience—was purchased with the proceeds received through the center’s Evening of Giving participation last year.” This year’s event will offer a variety of mall-wide entertainment in addition to great shopping. Children can visit Santa in his cozy living room, have a photo taken, and receive a free gift in the West Penn Allegheny Health System court near Boscov’s. They can also ride the Holiday Express Train in the court near Macy’s. Strolling entertainment throughout the mall, musical performances in the food court, as well as food sampling all evening add to the holiday atmosphere. Emcees will be in center court drawing winners for more than 100 door prizes and encouraging participation in the silent auction benefiting the Simon Youth Foundation and featuring a broad range of appealing items. “Simon Evening of Giving® has a lively atmosphere,” said Megan Frenz, manager of Mall Marketing. “Every shopper in the mall that evening has donated to worthwhile charities through the purchase of their event ticket. It is a wonderful way to start the holiday shopping season.” In 2006, Simon Evening of Giving® and Simon Day of GivingSM raised more than $1.75 million for 2450 local, regional, and national charities. n For more information, call 412-831-8652 or visit www.simon.com. (See ad on page 44.)
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Lori Houy (seated), inv
ited guest on “Split End
s”
Come Knit with Us The fourth annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival, February 9 and 10,
2008, will once again be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Fort Couch Road across from South Hills Village. The festival promises to be even more fun this year with new classes being offered in knitting, crocheting, and felting. Felting is quite popular at the festival and seems to many like a new technique, but in reality it has been used for centuries. Felting is the process of making fabric (felt) from protein animal fibers, such as sheep. Simply speaking, hand felting is the creation of this fabric by hand. This non-woven technique, which was used 2000 years ago by nomads to make yurts and clothing, is making a comeback with hand crafters and artists all over the world. Classes in both wet and needle felting will be offered for those who find the art of knitting and crochet too tedious or difficult to master.
USC resident Denise Mennett was one of the grand prize winners at the third annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival.
The JoAnn Stores will offer grand prize gift baskets for participants to win, and hourly door prizes are awarded both days. This year, there will be a knit, crochet, and felt contest. Various categories are open to all participants with ribbons and prizes being awarded to the first, second, and third place winners. There will even be an Ugliest Garment contest for the garment that you thought would be a masterpiece, but turned out to be only usable as the dog’s bed liner. Special classes will be offered for Girl Scout and Brownie Troops to help them attain their badges. There is a charge for many of the classes, but there are some offered for free with the admission price. Free Teach Me 2 Knit & Crochet classes are offered both days as well as a Warm Up America Lounge
sponsored by Pat Catans. A free Necklace for All Occasions class and free ER sessions for help with all of your knitting and crochet mistakes are offered. Many local yarn stores participate as exhibitors and assist people with techniques and tips for better results in both knitting and crocheting. There will be exhibitors from across the country—from Texas and Colorado to Maine, New York, and Vermont. For fiber enthusiasts of all ages, the stores offer an amazing display of yarns and fibers, accessories, computerized pattern adapters, and more. Nationally recognized teachers and local teachers share their knowledge of the many different kinds of knitting and crochet techniques from simple socks to the complicated art of Fair Isle knitting. There are classes for beginner to advanced in Knitting with Beads, Free Form Crochet, Slip Stitch Savvy with the popular Kathy Zimmerman, and more. Spinning demonstrations continue throughout the festival with an angora bunny being last year’s highlight at Sonshine Farm’s booth. Terry Seltzer sits with a bunny in her lap and “plucks” the bunny’s hair fibers and spins it into the softest angora yarn that can be used for the finest baby garments. “Plucking the bunny keeps the garment from shedding,” says Terry. Shearing, another technique, and plucking both keep the bunny cooler in the warm months and keep its wool from matting. Festival coordinator and Upper St. Clair resident Barbara Grossman said that the festival started out being a fundraiser for her daughter’s school. It has evolved into a much larger event with almost 1400 people in attendance last year. There is a nonprofit group involved every year. Grossman’s husband, former Steeler Randy Grossman, has taught classes for men, which have been very popular. Last year, the men accomplished knitting a small coaster and may still be working on finishing their own “terrible scarf.” Barbara and Randy, with their daughter, Sarah, have appeared several times on WQED and KDKA to show their love of knitting and fiber. All three Grossmans are at the festival both days, working to make the event a favorite for creative Pittsburghers. n
DESIGNED AROUND YOUR DRIVING STYLE
Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 9, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 10. The winners of the contests will be announced at 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.pghknitandcrochet.com or call 412-963-7030. Bring in your copy of this article for $2 off admission. Men, women, and children of all ages are welcome. Winter 2007
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Happenings The South Hills Chorale Presents a Holiday Songbag
Upper St. Clair High School Spring Musical
Featuring recent holiday favorites
Always a Community Sellout! Save a Date and Plan to Attend February 29, March 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, and 8
Henry D. Monsch Jr.–Music Director Barbara McAuley–Assistant Director Jacob Yoffee–Accompanist December 14 and 15, 7:30 p.m. Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church Washington and Scott Roads Admission: $12, Group Rate: $10 Tickets available at the door Ticket orders: 830 Florida Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Information: call 412-347-0175 or visit www.southhillschorale.org
Holidays are for Scrooges, Too!
Photo by Matt Polk Edmund Lyndeck as Scrooge and Joseph Serafini as Tiny Tim in Pittsburgh CLO’s 2006 production of A Musical Christmas Carol.
The holidays would not be the same without Pittsburgh CLO’s A Musical Christmas Carol! When this lonely, greedy miser confronts the ghosts of his past, present, and future, the result is a second chance for a life filled with laughter and love! Join Scrooge, Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and a host of colorful characters for a remarkable CLO holiday presentation December 5-23 at the Byham Theater in the heart of the Cultural District. Tickets are available by calling the Theater Square Box Office at 412-456-6666. A discount is available for groups of ten or more. Call 412-263-2560. n
St. Clair Hospital Hosts Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery Seminar and Support Group St. Clair Hospital and Hope Bariatrics will offer a free laparoscopic weight loss surgery seminar on Monday, December 17 from 6 to 7 p.m. and a support group meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. in the hospital’s fourth floor meeting room. Geoffrey Wilcox, M.D., and Michael Felix, M.D., of Hope Bariatrics will discuss gastric bypass surgery—one of the most effective treatments for morbid obesity. There is no charge for the seminar, but registration is required by calling St. Clair Hospital’s Public Relations Department at 412-942-6280. n 70
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Nurse Volunteers are Needed The RN+WIN program at Duquesne University is an ideal opportunity for retired and practicing nurses to give back to the community. By donating a few hours each month, your experience and skills will not only help Pittsburgh’s senior citizens maintain their health and independence, you will also be helping to mentor the next generation of nurses. Volunteers are needed to donate at least four hours a month in one of the Duquesne University School of Nursing’s nursemanaged wellness center locations, which are in CitiParks Senior Centers or low-income senior high rise apartment complexes in Pittsburgh. Nurse-volunteers perform health screening and teach health education collaboratively with advanced practice nursing faculty and nursing students. For additional information, contact B.J. Kruman, MPH, at 412-396-4761 or email her at krumanb@duq.edu. n
Mt. Lebanon Class of 1977 30th Reunion Friday, November 23, 6 p.m. Westin Hotel Ballroom Downtown Pittsburgh, next to Convention Center Cost: $100 per person at the door For more information, contact Jeff Lioon by email at leboreunion77@comcast.net. Let your classmates know, too!
USC Lions Leaf Bag Sale—Last Chance! The last day to buy your compostable leaf bags from the USC Lions Club approaches on Saturday, November 17. Whether you have remaining fall leaves that you need to pick up or you are purchasing bags to store for when you tackle the inevitable spring cleanup, buy your bags from the Lions Club and support this local non-profit organization! When: Saturday, November 17 Time: 9 a.m. to noon Location: USC Department of Public Works building on the corner of McLaughlin Run Road and Truxton Drive
Things to Look for When Purchasing a New Heating System Steve Boehmer, Owner, Boehmer Heating The onset of winter will find many
homeowners facing the prospect of replacing their heating systems. The following are just a few things to consider. One size does not fit all. No matter which type of heating system you decide on, you must install a system that is properly sized for your house. This is usually something that the homeowner cannot do on his or her own. Your heating contractor should perform an approved heat loss test on your home to determine exactly how much heat is required to heat your home comfortably on the coldest day of the year, and no more. Installing too large of a heating system will only waste energy and break down more often, shortening the life of the system. Installation is everything. It doesn’t matter whether you have the most expensive or the least expensive system on the market. As with anything, if a heating system is not installed properly it will not work properly. Unfortunately, many contractors take shortcuts and there are many systems installed today that have more problems than they should. The
challenge is knowing whether your new system is installed properly. How can you know? More often than not, you won’t know until it’s too late. That is why you, the customer, must be extremely selective regarding whom you choose to install your new heating system. AFUE and efficiency. Today’s heating systems come in two basic efficiencies, the 80% efficient models and the 90% efficient models. Efficiencies are measured by their annual fuel utilization of energy, or AFUE. What does this mean? It is very similar to the way miles per gallon, or MPG, is used to determine how efficient is a car’s engine. The higher the rating the more efficient the heating system. Don’t be blinded by brand. Sure, there are differences among various brands of equipment, but don’t let anyone sell you on one brand as being the best. A single manufacturer may be marketing as many as five or more brand names using equipment that is all virtually the same. The key is to find a dependable contractor who is factory authorized and trained to install the heating equipment that best suits your home, your needs, your lifestyle, and your budget. n
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Progress at Providence Point
A bulldozer is using GPS to direct its activities. Progress continues at Providence Point, a retirement living community
on Kane Boulevard in neighboring Scott Township. Site preparation work began this past spring and is expected to be completed this fall. Interestingly, the bulldozers on site are using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to direct activities. The proper finish elevations for the dirt are computerized. Each bulldozer has a computer on board that levels the blade to the desired elevation based on the engineers’ drawings and the GPS. There is also a temporary recycling center on site to crush concrete and rock. To date, over
56,000 tons of old concrete and rock have been recycled and will be used on the site. The concrete is from the foundations and tunnels of the John J. Kane Hospital once located there. Construction of the apartment buildings is beginning, with over 60% of the apartments and patio homes already reserved. Occupancy is expected to begin late 2008 and early 2009. All residents will enjoy the wellness center, which includes an indoor pool, day spa, and fitness center. Three dining rooms offering bistro, casual, and formal dining will be available, in addition to take-out and private dining. Other amenities include indoor parking for all apartments, a bank, a theater, an arts studio, a card room, a library, and much more. Additionally, there are private rooms for assisted living, nursing care, and memory support. n Baptist Homes, located on Castle Shannon Boulevard in Mt. Lebanon for almost 100 years, is the sponsor for this new community. Additional information is available at the information center at 1145 Bower Hill Road, Suite 101, Pittsburgh, PA 15243. (See ad on page 11.)
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Family Hospice and Palliative Care Dedicates New Center The August 22nd dedication ceremony for Family Hospice and
Palliative Care’s new Center for Compassionate Care was attended by many—doctors, volunteers, families, health care administrators, community members. They know that this center could impact their personal lives, professional practices, and the patients and families they serve. Located in Mt. Lebanon, the center will house a 12-bed inpatient hospice unit providing round-the-clock compassionate care for patients and families, administrative offices, and an education and conference wing devoted to learning about end-of-life issues. Andrew Stockey, Channel 4 news anchor, emceed the ribbon cutting ceremony. The Center for Compassionate Care is not simply a building, but an environment that helps to transform a very difficult and painful time for an individual and their loved ones into one of comfort, support, and peacefulness. In keeping with the philosophy of hospice, the center’s design was based on individual choice, personal dignity, and quality of life, and will provide both the warmth and comforts of home and the reassuring care and support of a professional hospice team. The individual patient rooms were created to maximize privacy, natural light, and individuality. The entrance to the building was designed to be as welcoming as a neighbor’s home. The design took into account that being near nature can often soften this time in the life journey. Patients and families can enjoy the beautiful courtyard and meditation garden. Families can remain close with 24-hour visitation and can use an overnight room that accommodates out-of-town family. The education and conference wing is a resource for those in the community confronting end-of-life issues. It will provide learning space for health care professionals, caregivers, families, volunteers, and community groups. Much of the training of health care professionals and medical student/residents will be in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh’s Institute to Enhance Palliative Care, of which Family Hospice and Palliative Care is a founding partner. Caregiver support groups and bereavement support groups will be offered to Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s families as well as to the community-at-large.
Many enjoyed Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s August ribbon cutting ceremony dedication for the new Center for Compassionate Care. Left to right are: Jon Allgretti (chair, FHPC Foundation Board and USC resident), Ann Lytle (volunteer and former USC resident), Rafael Sciullo (president of FHPC), Paul Winkler (chair, FHPC Board of Directors), Peggy Stanton (FHPC employee), and Anna Marie Gaglia (vice chair, FHPC Board of Directors)
“With this new center we will be able to provide a seamless continuum of care for the patient. The center’s physical beauty and the caring staff will make the center a place of comfort and support for patients and families,” says Rafael Sciullo, president and CEO. “We are also very excited that the center will become a regional resource for information and training about end-of-life care.” n For more information, call 412-572-8800 or visit www.familyhospice.com.
Toast to Life Gala Family Hospice and Palliative Care hosted its tenth annual Toast to Life Gala at the Westin Convention Center Hotel on Saturday, November 10. Honorees were former Pittsburgh Pirate Steve Blass and his wife, Karen, and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato. All proceeds benefited Family Hospice and Palliative Care patients and families. n
C-Mites 2008 Weekend Workshops The Carnegie Mellon Institute for Talented Elementary and Secondary Students (C-MITES) will hold Weekend Workshops
from March through early May for academically talented students in kindergarten through ninth grade. The one-day workshops, which are held in the spring and fall, will take place on the campus of Carnegie Mellon University. C-MITES workshops provide an exciting mix of hands-on learning and social interaction, and are taught by teachers who are enthusiastic about math, science, and the humanities. This fall, students unlocked the secrets of Ancient Egypt, worked as crime scene investigators to solve a mystery, built robots, explored the science behind Harry Potter’s magic, and more. C-MITES students have earned scores at the 95th percentile or above on one or more sections of a nationally-standardized grade level test, are enrolled in their school’s gifted program, or are nominated by a teacher or parent, and come from schools across Pennsylvania. This spring, approximately 1400 students will participate in the program. Testing is not required to participate in the Weekend Workshops. In addition to offering workshops throughout the year, C-MITES identifies academically talented third through sixth graders through the Elementary Student Talent Search. The EXPLORE test was developed by ACT as a test for eighth graders, and measures academic development in reading, mathematics, English, and science. This year C-MITES will test 72
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
students on January 26 or 27 or February 23, 2008, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. The registration deadline for January testing is December 14 and the registration deadline for February testing is January 18. C - M I T E S o p e rates through Carnegie Mellon’s Leonard Gelfand Center for Service Learning and Outreach, located on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus. Since the program was founded in 1992 by Dr. Ann Lupkowski Shoplik, C-MITES has enhanced the education of more than 28,000 Pennsylvania students. To receive a brochure for Weekend Workshops or to sign up for the Elementary Student Talent Search, call C-MITES at 412-268-1629, or to register online and find more information about C-MITES programs, visit www.cmu.edu/cmites. n
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“Tea for Two” or Ten or Twenty Continued from page 45
llan Farm are, left to right: Attending a baby shower tea at Gilfi y, Mother-to-be Kathleen Hale, Malo Ann ble, Rum en Colle Ruth Schroeder, Mary Lee Maloy. and y, Malo h Sara , szak Alexis Bana
Now if this sounds a little stuffy to you, in a sense it is meant to be. Teatime is genteel—a time for refined mental and physical relaxation. But consumers beware! Not all tea gatherings are created equal. A few years ago on Easter Sunday, my daughter and I chose to forego Easter Brunch for high tea. After several inquiries, the final choice was an upscale Manhattan hotel named after winter, spring, summer, and fall. We were assured, for $100 per person, this experience would be an elegant, “once in a lifetime” experience. Well, that it was, but not in a good way. The flower show was
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actually a few scattered potted plants. A select few guests dressed appropriately, while others sported wrinkled T-shirts, cutoffs, and flip-flops. A waiter finally showed up after a 40-minute wait with a meager selection of this and that. A pot of water with two lonely teabags was set in front of us. What a disaster and what a disappointment! Needless to say, the hotel manager received Gilfillan tea party pla nners Dolores and Ph a scolding letter from yllis yours truly. An apology, along with appropriate monetary amends, arrived shortly thereafter. The moral of the anecdote is to ask others for recommendations. Check the Internet for consumer reviews. Many hotels serve afternoon tea daily. Try to view the event ahead of time. Is the serving area pleasant? Does the fare appear appetizing? Is the wait staff attentive? If you observe guests enjoying themselves, then more than likely, you, too, will have an invigorating teatime! Celebrate with a tea party in 2008! Whether the occasion is a celebratory shower, whimsical “teddy bear tea,” mother and daughter, sweet sixteen, or simply a gracious get-together, planning is a must. • • • • • • • • • •
Select a theme. Canvas guests for a suitable day, date, and time. Send invitations that coordinate with the theme. Borrow, rent, or purchase tea and related accessories. Research both innovative and traditional recipes. Be creative—plan a menu to include spicy and sweet. Loose tea is preferred and is traditional—ban the bag! Coordinate table decor, including theme flowers. Enlist the help of a professional or reliable friend. Be cordial, then relax and enjoy! If this list does not fit into your demanding schedule or your vacation budget doesn’t include tripping across the pond, Tea and Tour at our very own Upper St. Clair’s Gilfillan Farm is for you. By reservation only, party planners Phyllis at 724-356-4660 and Dolores at 412-266-0285 will orchestrate a lovely r A whimsical party of fou private afternoon tea for a minimum of eight guests. Further enhance this festivity with a guided tour of this historic Victorian home. Finally, reflect on the words of poet Henry James, “There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” n
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USC’s First Week of School
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
A Journey Back in Time Here are some interesting facts about life in the 1500s. We should
consider ourselves lucky to be in the 21st century!
• Most people got married in the month of June when they still smelled relatively good after taking their annual bath in May. However, to make sure they indeed smelled good, brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide any body odor. Hence, the custom of carrying a bridal bouquet when getting married. • Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water. The man of the house had the privilege of bathing first, followed by the other men and sons of the house, then the women and children, and lastly, the babies. By then, imagine how dirty the water was! Hence, the saying, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.” • Houses had thatched roofs (thick straw, piled high) with no wood underneath. Cats and other small animals (mice and bugs) lived in the roof to stay warm. When it rained the thatched roof became slippery, causing the animals to slip and fall off the roof. Hence, the saying, “It’s raining cats and dogs.” • There was nothing to stop bugs and other droppings from falling into the house through the roof. This posed a real problem in the bedroom. Hence, a bed with big posts and a sheet hung over the top afforded protection, leading to the introduction of the canopy bed.
• The floor of modest houses was made of dirt; only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence, the saying, “Dirt poor.” The wealthy, though, had slate floors, which would get slippery in the winter when wet. They would spread thresh (straw) on the floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until, when you opened the door, the thresh would start slipping outside. To keep the thresh in place, a piece of wood was placed in the entryway, resulting in the term “threshold.” • People cooked in the kitchen using a big kettle that hung over a fire. Everyday, they lit the fire and added things to the pot to make stew. They ate mostly vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold overnight and begin again the next day. Sometimes, the stew contained food that had been in the pot for many days, that lead to the rhyme “Peas porridge hot, peas porridge cold, peas porridge in the pot nine days old.”
• Lead cups were used to drink ale and whiskey. The combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a couple of days. Someone walking along the road would take them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the family would gather ’round to eat and drink, waiting to see if they would wake up. Hence, the custom of holding a wake. • Local folks in England began running out of places to bury the dead. They dug up coffins and took the bones to a bone-house so that they were then able to reuse the grave. They found that when they reopened the coffins, approximately one in 25 coffins had scratch marks on the inside. They realized they had been burying people alive. So when burying, they would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, lead the string through the coffin and up through the ground, tying it to a bell. Someone would sit in the graveyard all night (the “graveyard shift”) and listen for the bell. Hence, someone could be “saved by the bell” and was considered “a dead ringer.” n
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• Sometimes people would obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would show off by hanging up their bacon. It was a sign of wealth that a man could “bring home the bacon.” • Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food with high acid content caused some of the lead from the pewter to leach into the food, causing lead poisoning and eventually death. This happened most often with tomatoes. For many years to follow, tomatoes were considered poisonous. • Bread was divided according to status. Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or the “upper crust.” Winter 2007
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
77
Serving Upper St. Clair Churches and Synagogues
Nursery Schools
St. David’s Episcopal Church 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp. 724-941-4060
Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-5132
St. George Orthodox Church 610 Dewey Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-2277 St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800
Beth-El Nursery School 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1168 Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0441
St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-5445
Beverly Heights Christian Preschool 1207 Washington Road—412-561-7200
St. Louise de Marillac Roman Catholic Church 320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010
Center Church Christian Preschool 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153
Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road—412-854-4310
Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100
St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 126 Fort Couch Road 412-833-0031
First Bethel United Church Weekday Ministries 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141
Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray 724-941-9050
South Hills Assembly 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-8900
Chartiers Creek Community Church 4017 Washington Road #1000, McMurray 1-888-59CREEK (27335)
South Hills Church of the Nazarene 5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333
Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair 2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775 Berean Fellowship Church 300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township 412-220-4673 Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-5132 Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1168 Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-0405
Christ United Methodist Church 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621 Faith Lutheran Church of Upper St. Clair 80 Bartley Road—412-835-4590
South Hills Community Baptist Church 2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313 South Hills Interfaith Ministries 1900 Sleepy Hollow Road, South Park 412-854-9120
Holy Child Preschool/Extended Day Bridgeville—412-221-4720 Kingdom Kids Nursery School 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 Little Lambs Of Hope Preschool 2799 Old Washington Road—724-941-9441 Montessori Early Childhood Center 2400 Old Washington Road—412-835-3340 Mushroom Family Learning Center 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-1225
First Church of Christ Scientist 1100 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1125
South Hills Presbyterian Church in America 110 Hays Road—724-941-3480 www.southhillspca.org
Noah’s Ark Preschool-Our Redeemer Lutheran 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-942-6699
Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7600
Ruthfred Lutheran Nursery School 412-835-7140
Good Shepherd Church USC High School, LGI Room Office: 2430 Old Washington Road—412-835-8354
The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-6277
St. David’s Episcopal Preschool McMurray and Hays Roads—724-941-2058
First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700
Hillside Christian Community 1050 Campbells Run Road, Carnegie—412-279-2996 Holy Child Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213 Holy Cross Greek Orthodox 123 Gilkeson Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-833-3355
Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630
Day Care (Children)
Peters Creek Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-6210
Alphabet Land Day Care Center 3918 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4011 Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-1043 Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-854-4310 First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141 Happy Face Day Care Center 3322 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172 KinderCare Learning Center 1040 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-831-1888 Magic Years 119 Hidden Valley Road, McMurray—724-941-5569 Westminster Child Development Center 2040 Washington Road—412-835-9450
Ruthfred Lutheran Church Patterson and South Park Roads, Bethel Park 412-835-7140
*Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.
Hope Lutheran Church 2799 Old Washington Road—724-941-9441 Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Cedar Blvd. at Hollycrest Dr., Mt. Lebanon 412-531-8554 Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661 New Song Community Church 4767 Library Road, Bethel Park 412-341-1293 Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467
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St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery Washington and Mayfair Roads, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644 St. Thomas More Preschool 134 Fort Couch Road—412-833-1412 Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7687 Westminster Nursery School 2040 Washington Road—412-835-2906
Day Care (Adult) Prime Time Adult Care, Inc. 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6661 Alzheimer Day Care 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-5509 Easter Seals Brookwood Adult Day Care 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-4511
If we’ve overlooked your information, have incorrect information, or if you would like your Upper St. Clair facility to be represented in our magazine with an article, please write to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
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ults UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Survey ResThe results are in! We are pleased to have received so many responses to the
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY reader survey. (See Summer 2007 edition, page 76.) For those still wishing to respond, your opportunity has not passed! Go to the magazine website’s home page at www.twpusc.org/magazine/ and click on “Features” at the top right-hand of the page. From the Features link, click on “USC TODAY Survey” for a printable survey in pdf format. You can mail your survey response to USC TODAY at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or send an email response to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. We welcome your comments and strive to incorporate your suggestions into our community publication. Survey results will be published in the Spring 2008 edition.
te Fall 2007 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Cover Contest a d p U While many have guessed (incorrectly, we might add), the staff of UPPER ST.
CLAIR TODAY has yet to declare a winner in the “Where was This Cover Shot Taken?” contest. The cover of the Fall 2007 edition of the magazine is a computer-enhanced photograph of a fall scene on an Upper St. Clair road. If you know where this photograph was taken (on which USC road), take the time and let us know! The first correct response will receive a local dining certificate and a pair of tickets to the Upper St. Clair High School 2008 spring musical. Send your guess, including your contact information, to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Good luck!
Winter 2007
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Advertiser Index
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
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Terri Baldacci
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Maria & Joe Lane
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Kathy Donoghue
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
Hope Bassichis
Carpenter Team
Barbara Cusick
Lynn Dempsey
Janine Dillon
Jane Dodson
Bonnie Frear
Kathryn Gerhart
Dal Goldstein
Larry Hessert
Judy Hlister
Kim Krey
Elaine Krelis
Pete Krelis
Deona Miller
Lisa Moeser
Helen Moore
Pat Paslowski
Dan & Tracey Petricca
Toni Petrucci
Tulla Rakoczy
Jean Rohal
Stacy Romanias
Kathy Sekeras
Karen Skrainy
Sandy Wiedt
Paula Smokonich
CB Settlement Services
Sharon Stanek
Sandy Learish
Office Manager
Jim Walsh
Jane Washil
Janine Guthrie
Sales Director
South Hills/USC Office 1699 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-833-5405
Winter 2007
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
83
“ Yo u S t a n d O n O u r G o o d N a m e , E v e r y D a y ”
CARPET • AREA RUGS HARDWOOD • CERAMIC TILE LAMINATE • VINYL
SOUTH
NORTH
500 Station Street Bridgeville, PA 15017 412-221-6366
3230 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-364-7330
EAST
WEST
2047 Golden Mile Hwy. Pittsburgh, PA 15239 724-325-1900
996 Brodhead Road Moon Twp, PA 15108 412-262-4707
WHITEHALL 4856 Clairton Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412-884-3600
CLEVELAND
CINCINNATI/DAYTON
6908 Engle Road Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 440-239-9650
820 Pleasant Valley Road Spring Boro, OH 45066 937-743-9700
www.rusmurfloors.com 84
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2007
oyster perpetual cosmograph daytona
OFFICIAL ROLEX JEWELER ROLEX
OYSTER PERPETUAL, COSMOGRAPH AND DAYTONA ARE TRADEMARKS.
COL D W E L L B A N K E R Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!
Gorgeous ranch on 2.3 acres in Old Trotwood! Livingrm & Familyrm fireplace, walls of windows, custom kit! $399,900 Nancy Heffernan 412-344-0500
One of a kind ranch! Quality abounds, numerous amenities, island kitchen, 5Br, 4.5Ba, den, familyrm, 3 car garage! $539,900 Sydnie Jones 412-344-0500
Neutral 4Br, 2.5Ba colonial on a beautiful lot w/level backyard, updates, familyrm! Near park & minutes to I-79! $289,900 Heather Harrison 412-344-0500
Nice and updated 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath colonial, family room, gameroom, wooded lot! $250,000 Kathi Kernan 412-344-0500
Wonderful brick & stone colonial! Spacious rooms, 5Br, 4.5Ba, den, familyrm, gamerm, 3 fireplaces, lush landscaping! $759,000 Laura Simon 412-344-0500
Unique contemporary designed by famous artist! Vaulted red wood ceilings, 3Br, 2.5Ba artist studio, large deck! $269,900 Bart Hardy 412-344-0500
Spacious 4Br, 4Ba ranch on wooded lot! Exceptional detailing, hdwd flrs, fantastic mstr ste, sports court! $369,900 Bonnie Byrnes 412-344-0500
Updated 4Br, 2.5Ba Provincial, 1st flr laundry, familyrm fireplace, large deck, located 18th hole country club! $235,900 Hope Bassichis 412-833-5405
Lovely updated Tudor, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyrm fireplace & built-ins, gameroom, great back yard! $245,000 Carol Marks 412-833-5405
Custom built stone & cedar ranch! Cathedral ceilings, stained glass, 5Br, 4.5Ba, familyrm, den, gamerm, 3 car grg! $975,000 Barbara Cusick 412-833-5405
Magnificent Provincial on 1.5 acres! Embellished w/countless luxurious amenities, 4Br, 3+2Ba, fenced yard w/pool! $749,900 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405
Quality, updated ranch in parklike setting! Nice room sizes, two fireplaces, 3Br, 1.5Ba, gamerm equipped w/full kit! $189,900 Monica Mahla 412-831-5555 Exclusive. Classic. Convenient.
Quiet, soft styling puts you in mind of Californian villa! Cathedrals, hdwds, 5Br, 3.5Ba, familyrm, den, gmrm! $499,900 Dianne Wilk 412-831-5555
Gracious 5Br, 3Ba brick colonial in a lovely setting! Large kitchen, den, familyrm, gamerm, security system! $378,900 Ethel Levine 412-344-0500
1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
This magazine was printed on recycled paper.
The excitement is building at Washington Park, the quintessential Mt. Lebanon address. Six different floor plans with two or three bedrooms which incorporate open features of condominium living. Luxurious penthouse plans are also available. Located at the corner of Bower Hill and Washington Roads.
Call the site team at 412-586-2244 www.thewashingtonparkcondos.com Coldwell Banker速 is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC.
ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE
POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
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