WINTER 2008
RELAX.
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IS
CLOSE TO HOME.
If you’re having a baby, think of us as a security blanket. A place where you’ll find some of the region’s finest OB doctors, state-of-the-art technology, and warm and comfortable Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum suites. All right in your own neighborhood. At St. Clair, our 24-hour anesthesia care and in-hospital pediatricians ensure both mom and baby are always in good hands. Call us today at 412-942-5895 to hear more, or to schedule a tour. And put your mind to rest.
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1000 Bower Hill Road
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Mt. Lebanon, PA 15243
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412-942-4000
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We’re going above and beyond down here. It’s happening right now. Throughout this region and beyond, we’re unearthing the past and installing the future. Columbia Gas is replacing nearly 2,400 miles of old gas lines that have served past generations with the latest in pipeline technology. Investing 60 million dollars a year for the next 20 years in a pipeline that will bring hundreds of new jobs and community renewal. Ultimately, it will be a pipeline that will continue to deliver safe, reliable natural gas to towns and cities. Schools and businesses. Homes and hospitals. For the people who live here today, and for the next 100 years, we’re digging deep to go above and beyond.
Yo u r P i p e l i n e t o t h e Fu t u re
Terry Abbott
Donna Angle
Barbara Baker
Lynn Banbury
Janice Caputo
Jodi Bilski
Frank Conroy
The Platinum Standard
Diane Damian & Helane Tobin
Bob Dini
in Buying and Selling Homes
Karen Frank
Wayne Freund
Prudential Preferred Realty Route 19 South Office
Debbie Graulty Megan Griffin Gregory
Liz Hoyson
Bobbie Mikita
Sally Kauper
Angela Mize
George Herrington
Florine Kelly
Darietta Oliverio
Michelle Schocker/ Ruth Weigers
Pat Hogan
Bob Kohler
Barbara Kurdys-Miller
Charlene Lemper
Elva Marotta
Betsy Raber
Jenny Ramaley
Jo Ann Robb
Bryan Russo
Judy Ward
Mona Colicchie, Manager
Mary Ann Zupon
Preferred Realty
1679 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Independently Owned and Operated
(412) 833-7700 • www.PrudentialPreferredRealty.com Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
3
IT’S TIME WE REDEFINED H O N O R S T U D E N T. 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.
Winter 2008
•
Volume 14
•
Issue 4
Features and Around the Township 10
The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair The foundation honors two of its long-time members.
12
Gilded Glitz at Gilfillan Norma Harlan, Victorian enthusiast, shares her love of crafting.
18
From Here Read Erin Gibson Allen’s take on vacating spaces.
23
Not Your Mother’s Poinsettia Lovely, but more dramatic than ever... the poinsettia.
68
14
Elephants, elephants, and more elephants!
20
Life in a rural Chinese village
30
Exploring Chartiers Creek with the REEC
New STM Center Welcomes Celebrations St. Thomas More opens its new event facility.
74
Happenings See what’s happening this winter in the South Hills.
Township 26
CRC—Offering the Best for a Healthy Life The CRC readies its facility.
31
Recreation and Leisure Services Offer Programs for All Ages Many programs are available to keep you busy this winter season.
32
Winter Storm Emergencies Be prepared in a winter storm emergency.
34
The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair Our seniors go back to school!
36
Holiday Safety Tips From USCVFD Stringing lights? Read this first.
School District 46
Board Appoints New Director Resident Frank Kerber becomes the newest member of the Board of School Directors.
47
Academic Integrity USCHS develops an honor code.
49
Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame Twelve recipients of the 2008 Halls of Fame award are recognized.
50
Elementary Curriculum News Find out what’s new for our youngest learners.
58
A Day in the District Our camera made its rounds at our schools this fall. Did you make the grade?
Guides 40 42 62 80
Pinebridge Commons Gift Life Planning Dining
Cover 16
Photographed on the cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY are, left to right, Upper St. Clair residents Sally Wade, Tom Browand, and Rob MacLachlan who serve on the Board of Directors for Allegheny Land Trust. Seated at the desk is ALT’s Executive Director Roy Kraynyk. On pages 16 and 17, see the feature story about ALT’s mission to conserve and care for green space in our community. Cover photography provided by Harry Coleman Photography.
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 56th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project. Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield 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 Andrew McCreery, Finance 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, Amy Bahm, Dr. Judith Bulazo, Marilyn Cartwright, Chuck Chrissis, Kim Frenette, Jason Fryer, Dina Fulmer, Jill Gordon, Hannah Gross (YWG), Wayne Herrod, Robert Hlebinsky, Liyun Jin, Karen Johnson, Elisabeth Kane (YWG), Kevin Kramer, Jeff Krantz, Cathy Lavin, Eric Magliocca, Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Jace Palmer, Michael Quinlin, Pat Quolke, Rachel Riley, Mary Lynne Spazok, Ellie Stoehr, and Jessica Stombaugh. 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 56th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2008. 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 Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc. 1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268 6
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
School Board Directors
Township Board of Commissioners
Angela B. Petersen, President Amy L. Billerbeck, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Carol B. Coliane Frank J. Kerber Harry F. Kunselman Louis A. Piconi Rebecca A. Stern
Ched Mertz, President, Ward 4 Karen M. McElhinny, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Kenneth L. Brown, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Russell R. Del Re, Ward 5 Glenn R. Dandoy, At Large
William M. Sulkowski 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 2009 issue and will be published in March 2009. 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. Erratum Please accept our apologies for listing Kathy Rooney as Kay Rooney in a photo on page 15 of the fall 2008 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Kathy, pictured with Art, is his first cousin and the art director for the book Ruanaidh.
Deadline for articles and advertising for the Spring 2009 issue is January 2, 2009. Deadline for articles and advertising for the Summer 2009 issue is March 1, 2009. 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 Website www.twpusc.org/magazine Winter 2008
Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
7
1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole
Matthew R. Serakowski
Welcome to the winter 2008 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our 56th edition. As we inventory our closets for bulkier, warmer wear and service our home’s heating system in anticipation of Western Pennsylvania’s winter season, remember that it’s also the season of thanks and of giving. As citizens of Upper St. Clair, we have much to be thankful for. We are blessed to be in this community—a community that offers safety, highly regarded public service, and a school district that is second to none. Hats off to the employees of the Township and the School District who work hard to make it great! As residents, how can we help to improve it even more? We can focus our attention on our local government and contribute in ways that will positively impact our community. Mindfully elect officials who responsibly uphold that which is important. Take pride in our homes, our streets, and our neighborhoods by maintaining our properties. Extend ourselves to a neighbor in need. Get involved in community activities or community service. The Township has many opportunities where we can put our talents to good use. Lend a helping hand in our schools. The School District has long invited interested parents to volunteer in many capacities and at all levels. Get involved in our children’s classroom, in the PTA or PTSO, or a booster club that supports our children’s extracurricular activities. Opportunity abounds; seek it out! Upper St. Clair offers much. Take hold, take action, take responsibility! It’s ours to use wisely. Please do so! So, too, let us take this season and the opportunity to thank the advertisers of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY—both longstanding and new—who continue to offer their financial support. Please support their many and varied businesses in and around our Township. As we gear up for winter, let’s also challenge ourselves to gear up for Upper St. Clair, a community to which we commit—to which we give and for which we are thankful—regardless of the season.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski 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 8
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
LOOKING AT 15 YEARS OF PUBLICATION
Winter 2008
Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
9
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 Thanks Two of Its Members Dina Fulmer, Chair, Board of Trustees The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair lost two of its most valuable assets this fall. Joanne Prorok and Diane Vater are at the end of their second three-year terms as trustees, having served the foundation and the community in many ways. In addition to having served as both vice-chairperson and chairperson, Joanne also was active on the Education and Lifelong Learning Committee and served on the committee responsible for bringing the Pittsburgh Symphony’s Chamber Orchestra series to Upper St. Clair High School. This past year Joanne served as Trustee-at-large. Diane’s jobs for the foundation have included treasurer and a five-year stint as chair of the Education and Lifelong Learning Committee, initiating the “Becoming a Competitive College Applicant” seminar. Among Diane’s many responsibilities has been the oversight of the foundation’s popular QUEST program. Both women have been tireless fundraisers for the foundation and spent many hours manning the foundation’s booth at Community Day. Outside of their foundation work, Joanne and
Diane Vater
Joanne Prorok
Diane have been active volunteers in the Upper St. Clair School District and community. While the Community Foundation must wish Joanne and Diane a fond “Au Revoir,” the community will not be losing their services, as both will continue to be active workers for the betterment of our Township. ■
Did you make it to the Community
of Upper St. Clair’s fall fundraiser, Chillin’, Swillin’, and Grillin’? If you did, thanks for coming! If you were unable to make it, it’s not too late to make a tax-deductible donation to help the foundation with its mission of “creating a sense of community by enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” Visit www.mainstreetusc.com. ■ Foundation
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Phone: 412-831-1107 • Fax: 412-220-7780 • Website: www.mainstreetusc.com • Email: mainstreetusc@gmail.com 10
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2008
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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
11
Gilded Glitz at Gilfillan Mary Lynne Spazok During the Victorian Golden Age (1837-1901), genteel girls happily emulated the royal reign of England’s Queen Victoria. Notions of good design were linked to notions of a moral society. Youngsters, especially those in pastoral areas, were expected to study sewing and become proficient by age six. Young Eleanor Gilfillan valued the Arts and Crafts Movement (a reformist faction that influenced British and American decorative arts and crafts). Handwork, the pride of every household, yielded crochet and tatting, knitting, and quilting to adorn fanciful formal attire. Delicate lace curtains covered windows, while bedroom décor boasted of intricately patterned quilts along with fussy crocheted bedspreads. After all, society judged a lady’s proficiency by her ability to sew a fine seam! Norma Harlan, Victorian enthusiast, developed a keen pursuit of the art of crochet, embroidery, knitting, and beadwork at the early age of four. At the Gilfillan Homestead library on USC Community Day 2008, these skills were demonstrated before an eager audience. Norma makes clear, “From English royals to commoners, embroideries were lavish. Bead embroidery adorned layette baskets, home furnishings, and above all, ornate fashion.” To enrich their lives and savor a well-appointed lifestyle, clever American women embraced the Victorian age, rich with elegance, splendor, and romance. They learned to crochet, knit, embroider, and stitch sophisticated beadwork sought after by envious peers. During the mid 1800s, female immigrants, desperate for financial security, relied heavily on their handiwork. A simple sewing needle and humble spool of thread enhanced many a standard of living. Using a straight, thin needle and thread, beadwork is the craft of connecting beads to each other or applying them to cloth. Techniques include bead embroidery, bead crochet, and bead knitting. Creations include jewelry, personal adornment, and sculpture. Crocheting, from a French word croc or croche meaning hook, is the process of creating fabric from yarn or thread using a crochet hook. Crochet differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at a time. Embroidery is the craft of decorating fabric or other materials with designs stitched in strands of thread or yarn using a single straight needle. Simply, a stitch of hand-sewing is defined as the movement of the embroidery needle from the backside of the fabric to the front, then returning to the back side. One or more stitches are always executed in the same way, forming a design. The design may be freehand, a pattern painted on the fabric, or developed with a paper counting chart. Knitting turns yarn or thread into cloth. Stitch loops are pulled through each other. The active stitches are held
on a needle until another loop, from a second needle, can be passed through. Hand or flat knitting produces a length of cloth. Worked on circular or doublepointed needles, circular knitting produces a seamless tube (sleeve like). Exciting arrays, textures, and weights are achieved with vivid yarn and clever needle combinations. Norma poses with a myriad of dazzling doilies. Grandma used these utilitarian creations on upholstered furniture at the head and armrest, or on delicate surfaces to protect against water or heat damage. Today, “pickers” scour flea markets and tag sales for the most beautiful. Searching for those in pristine condition, severe wear and tear or staining is not acceptable for re-use. Clever fashionistas feature intricate works on couture handbags, one of a kind garments, and luxurious bed, bath, and table linens. Although Norma is certainly enamored with doilies, beadworking is her passion. Victorians were not the first to take pride in fine beadwork. Primitive humankind discovered that the stitches used to join animal skins together could also be used for embellishment. Needlework arts are believed to have originated in the Orient and Middle East. In Europe, elaborate thread and bead embroidery gained immense popularity. Within the United States, the Native American Indian took great pride in intricate beadwork, which was often bartered for the white man’s wares. Their culture placed high value on beaded objects for decoration, religious ceremony, and commerce. The Lenape Indian tribe of the Delaware Valley carved bead-like materials from bone, horn, stone, fruit pits, and seashells. In 1609, Henry Hudson sailed up the eastern shore where he dropped anchor north of Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey. The curious Lenape were invited aboard Hudson’s vessel where green tobacco leaves were exchanged for knives and brilliant glass beads. Glass was a substance previously unknown to North American Indian tribes. Traditional native materials could not compare to the shimmering makeup of radiant glass. In 1865, the Lenape gave up rights to the land that became Philadelphia in a treaty offered by William Penn. Trade currency goods presented to the Lenape included three papers (envelopes) of glass beads. Herbert C. Kraft (contemporary New Jersey historian) confirms that “European glass beads became ‘the diamonds’ of native culture.”
Norma Harlan displaying her wares 12
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2008
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By the late 18th century, North America’s Indian tribes had been driven from their places of origin, so many sought economic liberation in bead craft. Designing and handcrafting new items for sale to affluent consumers in eastern cities as well as eager tourists proved lucrative. Fascinated buyers sought the deeprooted ancestral designs of necklaces, pouches, and moccasins rather than copies of European handbags. Thus, the bead and leather souvenir trade flourished at trendy holiday destinations such as Niagara Falls. At home, Victorian Americana embraced glass beading. Women’s magazines published detailed instructions along with complex schematics for crafting bead patterns on dresses, bonnets, pincushions, sofa cushions, bracelets, necklaces, and brooches. Etiquette of the day decreed that only jet-black glass beads adorned mourning hats, shawls, and wreaths. The textile collection of Norma Harlan encompasses pristine examples. Today, her bead necklaces of original design are sought after, and Norma also re-strings and knots pearl strands. Just like Margaret Gilfillan, who stitched an intricate chair cushion with matching bell pull, Norma Harlan strives to accentuate, for future generations, the arts and craft attributes of the Victorian era. Email Norma at Homestead_soaps_and_crafts@hotmail.com for “original designs created for you” or visit Norma on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at the Gilfillan Homestead from noon ’til three during USC’s Community Day. ■ Note: For a festive holiday excursion outside USC, tour examples of Victorian affluence at the opulent Henry Clay Frick Mansion in Pittsburgh’s Point Breeze section of town (14 miles) (www.frickart.org) or The Dr. Thomas R. Kerr Memorial Museum in Oakmont (24 miles) (www.kerrmuseum.com). Debuting in the spring 2009 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is an insightful memoir from young schoolgirl Eleanor Gilfillan.
Margaret Gilfillan’s chair cushion and matching bell pull
Beaded purse, souvenir necklaces, and pearl strands
Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
13
Willie Theison— Baby Maker Wayne Herrod Willie Theison is a fascinating man with an even more fascinating job. Is he fascinating because of his job or does he make his job fascinating? I believe that it’s a combination of both! Willie, the lead elephant handler at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, is one of the top experts in the world on breeding African elephants. He is also an advisor at the Wuppertal Zoo in Germany and has consulted with numerous zoos around the world. Willie has been called “elephant whisperer” by many, but his second title should be “baby maker.” Why? Because Willie keeps making beautiful babies—elephants, that is. Elephants Victoria (age eight) and Callee (age seven) were born at the Pittsburgh Zoo within a year of each other under his guidance. Victoria was the first African elephant born in captivity to live to at least one year old in the last ten years. Callee came along one year later. Both are healthy and growing every day, each weighing over 4000 pounds. In July 2008 two more baby elephants were born, increasing the size of Willie’s growing family. Angeline was born on July 9 and Zuri was born on July 25. “Ten years ago,” said Willie, “the average mortality rate of an African elephant baby in its first year was nearly 40%. That rate has dropped to about ten percent today. The significant drop is mainly because people are paying more attention to the care of the dwindling African elephant population after having concentrated on the Asian elephants for so long.” Willie’s family consists of Jack (11,000 pound bull elephant and father of all of the zoo’s babies), Nan (mother to Callee and Angeline), Moja (mother to Victoria and Zuri), and Tash (matriarch of the herd). The relationship between Willie and the herd is exciting to watch! Except for Jack, Willie works with the elephants in a free handling, non-protected manner without the benefit of bars or chains. Willie said, “We can’t work with Jack in an unprotected manner. Bulls are aggressive and confrontational; that is their nature. Bulls are dominant, and at his size Jack can be whatever he wants to be!”
Baby Angeline and Moja at feeding time
14
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2008
Willie and Angeline
“People refer to me as the ‘matriarch of the herd’,” said Willie. “I consider myself the leader, not the matriarch. A matriarch’s main responsibility is to provide food, water, and protection for the herd. In the captivity of the zoo’s setting Tash is unable to do that. Since I provide these things, the elephants look to me as their leader. However, I defer to Tash when I am able to do so, so that she remains the matriarch in a way that is acceptable. She looks out for the herd and keeps an eye on everything that goes on. It’s a way of allowing Tash to maintain her role within the herd.” What makes Willie successful at what he does? He answered, “I base my handling of these elephants on the natural conditions of the animal. Old school handling used fear, intimidation, and pain to control the elephants. Watching a herd interact, either in person or by documentary, you can see that they do not treat each other cruelly. I work with them, not against them, and allow them the same respect they give each other. I am fair and honest with the elephants, always trying to understand them. I work extremely hard at that. Elephants are quite intelligent and you simply cannot fool them.” Willie continued, “Breeding elephants outside the wild is not an easy task. Because of a bull’s aggressive nature, he is separated from the females. When elephants go into musk (heat), the bull will let everyone know. The male and female are then put together and nature takes over. It’s a matter of timing; everything has to be perfect.” After blood tests confirm a pregnancy, Willie knows that exercise is key to a successful pregnancy. “We exercise the elephants by walking them vigorously,” said Willie. “It’s important that expectant mothers not gain a lot of excess weight. A newborn baby weighs in at around 250 pounds, and any additional weight gain goes directly to the mother’s pelvic area, making delivery that much more difficult. With the pregnancy lasting 22 months, it’s important that mom stays fit. I work her hard and step up her exercise during the last two months of the pregnancy. If mom is breathing hard through her trunk at the end of the walk, then I have done my job.” “Delivery is exciting, but also stressful for everyone, elephant included. The pushing and contractions are difficult for the expectant mother, with the birthing process lasting from 30 minutes to 20 hours. Our goal is to make it as stress-free as possible. With the large amount of fluids resulting from the birthing process, we put shavings on the floor to eliminate slippage and
to improve traction for the elephant and her new born baby. Upon delivery, the baby slides out as the mom squats close to the floor. Immediately after delivery, the baby is checked by a staff of veterinarians, then dried and watched closely. Intentionally, we keep the weak and uncoordinated baby on her feet and in mom’s sight at all times.” “There are three key periods of time for a newborn elephant: 1) three days—bonding with mom; 2) three weeks—weight gain is important; and 3) three months—development, coordination, and interaction with the herd. The next essential time is one year. This is a crucial period for baby elephants as it is after this time when they are free from most problems. Willie continued, “Introduction to the herd (other than mom) is extremely important. We have one young elephant (Callee) who has never seen a baby elephant and another young one (Victoria) who has not seen a baby in seven years. We monitor their reactions to the babies very closely. The same is true of the mothers. While Nan and Moja have been great mothers, we never assume anything.” The babies and mothers are monitored 24 hours a day for the first 30 days of life. The process is going very well. The moms have been absolutely great. Callee has become the teasing older brother, and Victoria has come to accept the babies and the fact that she is no longer the “princess” of the barn. I was fortunate to witness a great example of Moja’s motherly care. Baby Zuri attempted to leave the family room through a gap in the fence big enough to fit her. She headed out towards me, but mom immediately took several quick, large steps, wrapped her trunk around Zuri’s body, and gently pulled her back into the family room. Willie described the differences in the babies from a personality standpoint. “Zuri stayed much closer to her mom during the first week. She appears more reserved and less adventuresome than Angeline. Angeline is the opposite, a total free spirit, without care! She showed me her carefree spirit when I knelt low to take her picture. In a playful manner, she began to run to me. Willie laughed, “You just violated Angeline’s 40-inch rule. If you get down to her size, you are fair game for her roughhousing.”
Callee, w
ith newly weds Meg ST. h for the m CLAIR TODAY voluan and Gregory Ad agazine. She was m nteer Wayne Her ams. Meghan, da ughter rod, ha arried shoot wit this past summer s also written artic of h the elep a n d en jo yed a pho les hants. to
UPPER
I passed on being run over by a 300 pound baby elephant! “I am excited about the new babies,” said Willie. “I was in disbelief when I first realized that the zoo would have two new babies at virtually the same time. It’s been challenging for me and for my staff, as none of them were here for the first two births. The training and experience they had learned and will continue to learn is invaluable to them, to the zoo, and to the future of the African elephant.” Rest assured that no one is more excited than Willie Theison. When you talk with him about his family, you can see the pride in his eyes and hear the excitement in his voice. “I am really pumped!” exclaimed Willie. He should be. This group of elephants is very lucky to be cared for by a man who has dedicated his life to preserving and protecting the captive African elephant. I invite you to go to the zoo and spend some time watching this elephant family interact. Also, watch Willie. The relationship and connection he has with them is something to behold. Willie has a magical touch—a gift— that few people have. He can walk and talk among these enormous, wonderful creatures as you and I walk among our human friends. Simply put, Willie is the best baby maker — elephant, that is! ■
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Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
15
Local Residents Share Love of the Land
Roy Kraynyk, Executive Director, Allegheny Land Trust When Upper St. Clair’s
MacLachlan family learned that a local land conservation group was trying to acquire the former Wingfield Pines Golf and Swim Club property on Mayview Road for permanent green space, they wanted to help. They donated six original paintings by artist Nat Youngblood of the French and Indian War that raised $30,000 toward the purchase of this 80-acre property by Allegheny Land Trust (ALT). Shortly thereafter, ALT, a nonprofit land trust working to conserve land in Allegheny County, approached Rob MacLachlan to serve on its board. “My family was motivated to help protect Wingfield Pines because of its location in Upper St. Clair. As a youngster, having witnessed the devastation of forests and farmland in Somerset County from unregulated strip mining and the impact of urban sprawl surrounding Pittsburgh, I wanted to serve on the board to help conserve lands in communities throughout the county,” stated Rob. Since incorporating in 1993, ALT has conserved 1380 acres in 19 Allegheny County municipalities in response to a public survey indicating need for countywide land conservation. Since acquiring Wingfield Pines property in 2001, ALT has been working to better understand this terrain. Wingfield is as dynamic as the seasons, and offers the community an opportunity to observe and enjoy its
diverse range of natural amenities. Recreational activities, such as ice skating, cross-country skiing, fishing, canoeing, hiking, photography, bird watching, and dog walking, can be enjoyed. It’s an interesting and beautiful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life without traveling too far. As ALT gains further understanding about the land’s history, ecology, seasonal changes, and public uses, it is better positioned to manage the landscape for the future. Over the past seven years, Penn State, Duquesne, and Point Park Universities and the University of Michigan have helped ALT evaluate and plan for the management of Wingfield Pines. Local Boy Scouts Troops 366 and 834, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission have helped improve bat and duck habitat. Originally a forested floodplain along Chartiers Creek when George Washington floated north toward the forks of the Ohio, the first significant alteration was stripmining in the early 1900s. The overburden was removed and used to create a dike that straightened Chartiers Creek. If you look closely at maps showing the boundary between Upper St. Clair and South Fayette Townships you will see an arc where the creek once meandered through Wingfield Pines. The land was strip-mined as the coal seam descended deeper into the ground
University of Michigan graduate students Joel Perkovich, Mary Walton, and Brian Chilcott created the Wingfield Pines Management Plan and also built a canoe launch on the property. 16
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2008
toward the east. At that point, miners bored underground to mine the coal. Today, a honeycomb of mines remains under Upper St. Clair Township and most of the South Hills. Over the years, abandoned mines all over Pennsylvania have filled with water. Today, this water, called abandoned mine drainage (AMD), is discharging into streams and rivers that are often sources of public water. AMD carries dissolved minerals to the surface, which is polluting local streams, and is the number one source of water pollution in the Commonwealth. The AMD at Wingfield Pines carries dissolved iron that oxidizes on contact with air. For decades, this non-toxic iron “sludge” has been coating the bottom of Chartiers Creek at the rate of 43 tons per year, impairing the creek’s water quality and smothering aquatic habitat. Section 319 of Pennsylvania’s Clean Streams Law requires landowners with sources of AMD and other pollutants to clean up those sources. Over the past several years, ALT has worked to raise funds to design and construct a system of shallow ponds that will capture the iron oxide before it reaches Chartiers Creek. The design is very simple and relies on the natural forces of gravity and oxidation. The water flows without pumps and the iron oxidizes naturally. The plan for the abandoned mine treatment system is also designed to be educational so people can learn about one of the most visible scars of our industrial heritage and what we are doing today to heal that scar. The system will be a great educational site for the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC) located just across from Wingfield Pines in Boyce Mayview Park. Throughout the 1970s and early ’80s Wingfield Pines operated as a popular local golf and swim club. Upon acquiring it, ALT filled the leaking pool and razed the derelict buildings that were too damaged to reuse. Before having the buildings burned down, ALT permitted the USC Volunteer Fire Department to train here.
Fast forward to September 17, 2004, when rain from Hurricane Ivan flooded Wingfield with an estimated 50 million gallons of water. That’s 50 million gallons that did not contribute to the devastating flooding downstream in Bridgeville, Heidelberg, and Carnegie. In this instance, Wingfield properly functioned as a giant floodwater storage basin which slowly released the flood water over time. This is one of the reasons ALT acquired the property—to protect this natural flood water storage area. ALT uses three criteria to determine what lands to conserve—biodiversity, scenic character, and water management. Lands that harbor biodiversity and contribute to the region’s scenic character and lands that intercept and hold back storm water are priority lands for conservation. ALT has recently completed a study using existing research from universities, state and federal agencies, and other sources to locate properties that meet these criteria. Called the ALT GREENPRINT, the map guides ALT’s conservation efforts and is included in Allegheny County’s first Comprehensive Plan. This past July, ALT acquired an adjacent sevenacre parcel that connects Wingfield Pines to Boyce Mayview Park, creating a four-mile continuous greenway along Chartiers Creek. Recently, two additional USC residents joined the ALT Board of Directors: Sally Wade in 2007 and Tom Browand in 2008. “I’ve been supportive of land conservation all my life,” comments Sally. “When ALT invited me to serve on
This diagram illustrates the criteria ALT uses to prioritize land purchases.
the board I was excited to turn my interest into action.” Tom, who also serves on Upper St. Clair’s Parks and Recreation Board, has known about ALT for a number of years. “I am really thrilled about the future of Wingfield Pines and Boyce Mayview Park. As the master plans for these two properties are completed, we will have an impressive recreation area in the South Hills. Wingfield and Boyce Mayview will be linked by a trail network, adding significantly to the quality of life for residents of the surrounding communities.”
Although only remnants of the pool and golf course remain, a visit to Wingfield can still conjure up memories. “When I talk to residents about ALT’s work at Wingfield their eyes light up and they share their recollections about summers spent there as lifeguards or evenings enjoyed on the golf course,” comments Roy Kraynyk, ALT’s executive director. The fact that ALT has acquired Wingfield for permanent green space provides the opportunity for people to visit and relive those memories. “For those of you who have never been there, I encourage you to visit and enjoy the natural sites and sounds, and create new memories,” adds Kraynyk. ALT would like to thank those individuals who have, over the years, helped raise the funds to protect and the manpower to care for Wingfield. If it weren’t for the very special and timely gift from USC residents Rob and Nancy MacLachlan and also for the members of Upper St. Clair Citizens for Land Stewardship (CLS) who helped to raise over $25,000, Wingfield Pines may not be the green space that it is today. ■
ne Ivan om Hurrica the floods fr Wingfield Pines of s lt su re The 17, 2004) at (September Winter at W in
gfield Pines
“Helping local people save local land.” Allegheny Land Trust is an independent Pennsylvania nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and relies on the support of local residents, businesses, and community organizations. To support local land conservation, please return the attached envelope with your contribution. Or visit www.alleghenylandtrust.org and click “How to Help” to donate online through ALT’s secure server. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Allegheny Land Trust Address: Suite 206A, The Car Barn Shops, 409 Board Street, Sewickley, PA 15143 Website: www.alleghenylandtrust.org Phone: 412-741-2750 Winter 2008
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e r e H m Fro Vacating Spaces
Erin Gibson Allen
My husband and I concluded our
summer this year by hosting a three-day party in Pittsburgh for the Mooseroomers. The Mooseroomers, who may be unfamiliar to many, are a group of my husband’s college friends. These guys met about 20 years ago, early in their college years in New Haven, and hung out in a room, I’m told, that was tastefully decorated with a moose head on the wall. After many hours together in this room, they dubbed themselves the “Mooseroomers.” I started dating my husband early in graduate school at Pitt, right after college. I learned early on that the Mooseroomers are not averse to traveling when they came to visit my husband just months after school started. The Mooseroomers spent an afternoon at my apartment after learning that I had three coveted possessions: a couch, a color television, and a refrigerator with more than a tub of margarine in it. Since that visit, my husband and I graduated from Pitt; got jobs; got engaged; bought, lived in, and sold a house in the East End; had two boys and moved to Upper St. Clair. Through all these changes, there have been several Mooseroom gatherings, including a wedding in Ireland and family vacations at the Outer Banks. Oddly, four of the Mooseroomers married women from Pittsburgh and eventually settled down near the city. (What is odd, of course, is that so many of the friends would marry Pittsburgh women; not that they would move here.) With a concentration of the group now living here, this summer we planned a reunion in Pittsburgh. My husband and I met downtown and had planning lunches with the other Pittsburgh couples to divide up tasks. I created a website with a detailed itinerary and links to articles and local attractions. I also created personalized tote bags full of Pittsburgh items, like Enrico biscotti and Loova soap.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
To entertain and impress the crowd of about 30 adults and children, we pulled out all the best the city has to offer, including the Woodland Hills Swim Club, the Good Ship Lollipop, Mike the Balloon Guy, a little golf, and several porch and deck cookouts. The three-day weekend was the highlight of our summer. Stories from the glory days were retold while children threw water balloons, pogo-sticked, and tore it up on a Slip-n-Slide. When all the guys left, taking their wives and children with them, I experienced an unexpected sense of sadness. As I stripped the sheets off of our guest bed, feeling good about the weekend events, I sensed how quickly the upcoming years would fly by. When I was grocery shopping in August in anticipation of the Mooseroomers’ visit, neighborhood kids were celebrating at high school graduation parties and packing for college. Among the balloons and brownies, graduates pulled in and out driveways with groups of friends, many of them wearing shirts from the various four-year colleges they would soon be attending. The callous reality is that futures have a way of leaving almost everything behind, and many of the intense friendships of high school pay back dividends in the form of sweet memories, but less often in the form of ongoing, close friendships. Career paths rarely steer friends in the same direction, and boyfriends and girlfriends rarely make it through the next four years. The years after high school do not follow the same mathematical rules that guide youth through grade school. One year under the age of 18 equals about two years in college, and years after that go by exponentially faster. A parent experiences five years in the same time it takes a high school student to complete a term paper and find a prom date. For young adults going on to college and maybe graduate school, there will be more packing up and partings just around the corner. Different groups of friends will compete for time together and diverse
Winter 2008
memories will elbow each other out for space in a limited memory bank. It is the exception when a group is able to stay in touch and have meaningful reunions over the course of several years. The quietness that follows the parting of a close group of friends is lonely in the same way that packing up and moving out of a dorm room, apartment, house, or office is. Photographs and coffee pots are boxed up with books and CDs. With the car packed and running outside, there is little time to reflect before moving on. Others, inevitably, will occupy the nowempty space. One person’s tenure in a room is over; another will move in. Just before the lights are turned off, a person may pause to feel the weight of the years spent in one place, with one group of friends. It is true that a person can never really go back. But it is also true that with age comes an appreciation of the value of shared experiences and the art of maintaining important friendships. So in August, before we bought school supplies for our kids and before we sat down to watch the first fall football game, we invited old friends to spend a long weekend in our home. The guest room felt empty when they left. Time and space are inseparable and the passing of one results in the emptying of the other. I expect, someday, to watch my boys as they move out and on to their next life experience. Despite the empty rooms they will leave behind, I hope that when they go, they find a group of friends to share a space with and that they will, despite the acceleration of time and the contraction of opportunities, find a way to stay close through the years. ■
I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas about my column with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at eallen@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Let me know if, like me, you’re from here.
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Life in a Rural Chinese Village Liyun Jin Shanshui is the name of a classic Chinese painting style, literally translated as “mountain-water,” in which scenes of cliffs, waterfalls, and clouds are delineated with brush and ink. But instead of bringing to my mind the ancient and the traditional, the term shanshui conjures images of my grandmother’s house in the rural village of Fengshan in central China. Fengshan is named after the nearby mountain, which, through the fog, soars over rice paddies and streams, an everpresent giant. The teal peak is one of the reasons why, upon arrival, I always feel as if I have stepped into a painting; the timeless beauty of the landscape flows and bristles with the mystical grace of an ink brush on paper. Lush hills cradle shallow rivers, and the clear water snakes its way like veins through emerald rice paddies. Curls of smoke rise delicately above the brick chimneys of village houses. Fengshan is like Shangri-La, paradisial and almost imaginary in its visual perfection. Yet as mythical as it appears, the remote village—a three hours’ drive from the nearest town—is also very real and grounded to me. It is my ancestral home, with my entire paternal line rooted in those muddy yellow soils and glassy waters. Though I was not born and raised there, I am bound to it through history and lineage, a bond that brought my father and me back to the village for five days this summer. After a 13-hour train ride from Shenzhen and a seven-hour bus ride, my father and I arrived in the village on the evening of August 20. As my uncle drove us in a tractor wagon along the unpaved roads from the bus stop to my grandmother’s house, relatives gleefully piled into the farm cart with us, and together we spluttered through the post-rain muck. We passed water buffalo-filled ponds and neighbors who stared after our familial procession until we finally arrived at my grandmother’s doorstep. Her rugose face was just as joyful, her hands just as warm. Everything was the same as I recalled from 20
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
my childhood, the same as my father re- piling food into my bowl. All this, three membered from his. times a day. For the next five days, myriad relatives Every night I bathed by flashlight in a poured into the small dirt courtyard to visit small basin on the cement floor of my bedus. Along with the familiar faces, there room using stove-boiled water tempered were ones I had not seen in 13 years and with water from the well. Afterward my ones that I had never seen before. Cousins aunt would light the mosquito repellant peered at my camera with eager curiosity, incense, and its musky smoke saturated the their tiny hands running over the alien room. Through the wall against which the buttons. Uncles and aunts asked innu- bed was pressed, I could hear pigs softly merable questions using the local dialect, snorting in their pens. When I switched practically incomprehensible to me, and I off the light, the blackness was so deep it bumbled out responses to what I supposed surprised me, so dark that I could not see they had inquired. my own hands, just an abyss of shadows. But above the din and excitement, life The rice husk-filled pillow crisped and rapidly sank into a routine. Days began crunched like cellophane beneath my begrudgingly at dawn at the behest of the weight. The air tasted of rice, of staleness, roosters, which commenced their insis- of wet wood and dirt. All around me, mintent clamor at five o’clock each day. Every gling with the fragrance of incense and the morning, I would wash up as someone sounds of a thousand creatures, hovered a pumped the lever of the well for me, draw- beauty that was so simple yet so keen. ing water as cold as knives, and then my Sometimes it was hard to imagine father and I would take the previous day’s that I had been in the metropolises of laundry down to the river. Our washboard Beijing, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong only was a slab of rock on the sand, our rinse days before. Just a week ago, I had been cycle the natural current carrying the in the capital, where billboards and comlather of detergent downstream in ribbons mercials touted the preparations for the of white. 2008 Olympic Games, where towering A fresh, earthy smell was present at steel and glass structures pitched over the all times, filling my lungs to their depth city, and where clusters of trained volunwith pureness. Countless teers sat at each intersection, stimuli stirred my senses. The chatter of women as they washed the vegetables and descaled the fish, the smell of wood smoke rising from the maple branches ablaze underneath the stove. The explosive hiss of green beans going into the wok, the steam rising from the platters and filling the air of the courtyard with a savory aroma. Numerous pairs of Curious ne ighbors gath chopsticks clatterer by the un paved road ing against porcelain, s. Winter 2008
ready for the arrival of tourists and athletes. Here, amidst the fields of peanuts and cotton, surrounded by the deafening drone of cicadas and the almost foreign sounds of the locals’ speech, without running water or computers, I puzzled at how such places could coexist in one world, much less one country. I gave my leftover Hong Kong currency to my cousins, who examined the vibrant bills and scalloped coins with wonder. Just three days ago, I had fingered Givenchy wallets and Fendi purses at Harbour City, a famous shopping mall in Hong Kong. In the gleaming boutiques, I had admired the sheen of silk scarves and the suppleness of leather clutches while saleswomen cooed over me in impeccable English. It would take tens, hundreds, sometimes thousands of those cerise-pink bills to purchase something in that shopping mecca; a year’s salary for these farmers encapsulated in just one flawless indulgence. My recent longing for such things seemed so childish and unnecessary when I was now surrounded by a perfection that was so pervasive, so invaluable, yet entirely free. It would be cliché to say that this trip taught me how privileged and sheltered my life is. Although that statement is true, I consider myself even more fortunate for having had the opportunity to straddle these vastly different worlds. I was able to observe the disparities present in modern China, to view the ceaseless transformation of cities like Beijing and the extravagant displays of wealth in Hong Kong, yet also to experience life in a rural village—a facet of the country that few tourists have ever seen. Even within Fengshan itself, these contrasts manifested themselves. Looking past the natural beauty of the landscape, everyday living conditions were marked by utter squalor and inconvenience. Beneath the commotion of our arrival, there was an underlying tranquility in the routine of the rice paddies and fields, and amidst the timelessness of the farmers’ livelihood was a sense of transience and change. Some family members had left the village, their ambition taking them to factory jobs in other cities. In wealthier houses, refrigerators and televisions sometimes stood anachronistically underneath yellowing posters of a beaming Mao Zedong, almost jolting reminders of modernity in a world that, in other ways, has remained unchanged for centuries.
Early one morning, Liyun’s father washes clothes in the river.
These contrasts, surprisingly, were mingled into one, like the multihued inks of a shanshui painting, blending to create something at once differentiated but harmonious. Just as rough brushstrokes can coexist with feathery streaks, my sadness at leaving my ancestral home was tinctured with a keen longing for the other side of China, for modern conveniences and urban bustle. But above this palette of emotions—poignancy, nostalgia, restiveness, and affection—one surfaces from the rest: gratitude. Gratitude, tinted by all the people who have welcomed me into their lives, by the cities, countries, and worlds that I have seen, and by the ways of life that I have experienced, remains most clearly in my mind, the inks forever lingering in a rich and beautiful image. ■
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Liyun Jin, the daughter of Zeyu Su and Juping Jin, was born in Beijing, China, living there for six years. She is a 2008 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School and a freshman at Harvard University. Winter 2008
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Text Messaging with the English Language: Evolution or Decline? Eric Magliocca Who could have guessed that
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people would rather text than speak? That is the question linguists have pondered since the advent of text messaging inadvertently introduced a whole new language to the younger generations. In this other world of language, vowels are discriminated against, numbers marry words, acronyms are ubiquitous, and brevity is a religion. It is for these reasons that some scholars have described text-messaging as “slanguage,” “a series of ridiculous emoticons,” “penmanship for illiterates,” and a form of English which “masks dyslexia, poor spelling, and mental laziness.” So what about Upper St. Clair? Has this phenomenon affected the school district recently voted #1 in Western Pennsylvania, and just this year listed by US News and World Report as one of the top ten brainiest places to retire in America? In a recent study, 50 Upper St. Clair students between the ages of 14 and 18 were asked questions about the frequency with which they used text messaging. Of the 50, every student claimed to use text messaging regularly, and 47 of those 50 admitted to using this cell phone feature every single day. Thirty-four of these students confessed to accidentally using common text abbreviations in their papers and every student claimed to use text message abbreviations and symbols to take notes. Perhaps most troubling to sticklers for Standard English, 17 students, or 33%, described keeping text messaging out of their papers a conscious struggle. So if some of the most gifted students in the country are under the influence of “Textspeak,” does this mean the English language is deteriorating? For many educators, the answer is a confirmed “yes.” For Dr. Lauryn Mayer, a medievalist professor at Washington and Jefferson College and author of Worlds Made Flesh: Reading Medieval Manuscript Culture, text messaging is evolving and, believe it or not, making the English language better. “The English language has always evolved as political, social, or technological situations change,” says Mayer, a proponent of Textspeak. “What text messaging has done for us is that it has naturally transformed certain words of the English language to make them simpler and more applicable.” Some of the words Mayer believes text messaging has simplified are “why,” “are,” “you,” and “see.” In Textspeak, they shed their redundancy: “y,” “r,” “u,” and “c.” An indicator of the progression of these select words was evidenced when all 50 students admitted, voluntarily, that these four words were most commonly replaced by text abbreviations. Caty Dewalt, a USC ninth grade honors English teacher, affirms this tendency: “I rarely Winter 2008
see such words as ‘why,’ ‘are,’ or ‘you’ abbreviated in polished papers,” she explains, “but I almost always find it in timed writing and in students’ notes.” The speed factor, that is, one’s need to communicate quickly, explains the students’ expedition in replacing “why,” “are,” “you,” and “see” with quick, one-letter words they discovered in Textspeak. Speed also helps explain how Old English words like “doth” evolved into “do,” “shalt” into “shall” and “thither” into “there.” But what about the intermingling of numbers and letters that is distinctly “Textspeak” (“later” is abbreviated “l8r,” and “to” or “too” is abbreviated “2”)? Of the 50 students interviewed, only six, or 12%, confessed to using numbers as abbreviations in their papers (all were used to abbreviating either the words “one,” “to,” or “too,” with the number “1,” or “2,” respectively). Such findings indicate students are capable of shifting the two languages to meet the formal needs of the situation, especially when dealing with number and letter abbreviations that would appear anomalous in Standard English. Dewalt supports this conclusion, noting that she cannot remember a time when a student used a number/letter amalgamation in a formal paper. Of the rare moments when she did capture a number expressed as a letter in note-taking, it was always to replace “one,” “to,” or “too.” So will “y,” “r,” “u,” and “c” eventually replace their redundant forms? Mayer suggests that resistance from conservative linguists and educators is to be expected, for they fear such an evolution will not only devalue the language, but “curtail thought and general expression.” There is also the notion that admitting some words of “Textspeak” will lead to a slipperyslope of ultimate chaos as number/letter amalgamations will come barging into Standard English. Therefore, Mayer expects the evolution will be comparable to the evolution of the suit: it has become more casual over time, but very slowly. ■
Eric, a 2003 USC graduate and the son of John and Debbie Magliocca, is a recent magna cum laude graduate from Washington and Jefferson College with a degree in English.
Not Your Mother’s Poinsettia Remember when poinsettia
plants came in two basic holiday colors— red and white? Then marble was added to the available inventory—shocking! Well, times they are a changin’. We now have an array of plant colors to choose from to help us celebrate the winter holidays and for those with fashion sense, to more perfectly match our home’s décor. Tipped and dipped, colors can be one- or two-toned and range from the traditional whites and reds to marbles, blues, hot pinks, and plum shades. Some plants come with sparkles, making them glisten either by sunlight or the lights that illuminate our decorated trees. One-plant, two-plant, or three-plant pots can either be a room’s focal point or complement a larger display.
Some poinsettia facts: • Poinsettias are native to Mexico. • Poinsettias were introduced into the United States in 1825 by Joel Poinsett. • Ninety percent of all poinsettias are exported from the United States. • California is the top poinsettia producing state. • There are over 100 varieties of poinsettias available. • $220 million worth of poinsettias are sold during the holiday season. • Poinsettias represent over 85% of the potted plant sales during the holiday season. • Seventy-four percent of Americans still prefer red poinsettias; eight percent prefer white, and six percent pink. • Eighty percent of poinsettias are purchased by women. • Eighty percent of people who purchase poinsettias are 40 or older. • Poinsettias are the best selling flowering potted plant in the United States. In 2004, over 61 million plants were sold. • The Aztecs named the poinsettia Cuetlaxochitl. They made a reddish purple dye from the plant’s bracts. • In nature, poinsettias are perennial flowering shrubs that can grow to ten feet tall.
• The showy colored parts of poinsettias that most people think are the flowers are actually colored bracts (modified leaves). • The flowers or cyathia of the poinsettia are in the center of the colorful bracts. While consumers love to buy these seasonal plants in droves in anticipation of the upcoming holidays, when the New Year arrives many poinsettias are placed at curbside, waiting to be picked up by a refuse truck. If given proper care, did you know that poinsettia plants regenerate? Here’s how. By early April, when the colored bracts begin to turn or fall off, cut the plant back, leaving only four to six buds. Keep the plant near a sunny window, and water and fertilize regularly. By the end of May, you should see vigorous new growth. Continue to nurture your plant as autumn nears. The poinsettia begins to set buds and produce flowers as the nights become longer. Beginning October 1, keep a plant in complete darkness each night for 14 continuous hours by moving it into a dark room or placing a large box over it. During the day, allow six to eight hours of bright sunlight. Continue this for eight to ten weeks, and a poinsettia will develop a colorful display of blooms for your next holiday! Sound like a lot of work? It might be, but any green-thumbed individual should give it a try. For a fun experiment, have your kids work with a dipped poinsettia to see how it comes back next year. No, today’s poinsettias are not your mother’s poinsettias. Today, they offer much more variety! ■
Each November, the Upper St. Clair High School Swim Team sells a variety of poinsettia plants for the holiday season. Contact Ron or Cathy Mitchell at 412-221-2535 for sales and information. Winter 2008
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Township of Upper St. Clair Ched Mertz President, Ward 4 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3631 2009*
Highlights of Board of Commissioners Meetings June 2, 2008 Approximately 23 people attended.
Karen M. McElhinny Vice President, At-Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1732 2009*
Preston W. Shimer
Township News
Ward 1 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2011*
Kenneth L. Brown Ward 2 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-4512 2009*
Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2011*
Russell R. Del Re Ward 5 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-3336 2011*
Glenn R. Dandoy At-Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-6243 2011*
The Board • Continued public hearing re. PLC08-1141 Amendment to Chapter 114, entitled “Subdivision and Land Development” to the Board’s regular meeting of July 7, 2008. • Adopted Bill No. 10-08 granting final approval to PirainBrookside Plan of lots–Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Subdivision and Land Development. • Adopted Bill No. 11-08 granting final approval for PLC08-0005-Fox Chase PRD Plan Phase Four Revision No. 2–Amended Final Approval Planned Residential Development. • Adopted Resolution No. 1487 authorizing acceptance of bids and verification of funding match for the Perimeter Trail Project. • Vetoed Alternate 1 for the addition of solar panels in the amount of $65,000 on the Public Works Annex Building. • Tabled Alternate 2 for the inclusion of 16 skylights in the roof of the new Public Works Annex Building in the amount of $51,580 to the next regular Board meeting of July 7, 2008. • Approved a Change Order with John Zottola Landscaping, Inc. for an additional 18 working days to remove and replace the 180 lf of grade beam at a cost of $36,000 on the Tennis Bubble. Board Approval of Contracts Approved base bid for the construction of the Public Works Annex Building in the amount of $1,475,754 which includes the following four contracts: • Trinity Contracting, Inc., West Newton ......... $1,055,000 General construction • John Haughey & Sons, Inc., McKeesport .......... $238,700 Plumbing and fire protection • Advanced Plumbing & Mechanical, Inc., Aliquippa.............................................................. $84,054 HVAC Work • Houston Electric, Inc., New Castle ...................... $98,000 Electrical work
July 7, 2008
August 4, 2008
Approximately 10 people attended.
Approximately 8 people attended.
The Board • Adopted Bill No. 12-08 re. Amendment to Chapter 114 entitled “Subdivision and Land Development.” • Adopted Bill No. 13-08 granting StonePepper’s Grill and Patio Outdoor Dining conditional use approval as amended. • Adopted Bill No. 14-08 granting the 2006 edition of the International Property Maintenance Code as a new Chapter 52 of the Township Code with amendments. • Adopted Bill No. 15-08 amending Chapter 5 of the Township Code entitled “Enforcement of Ordinances; Penalties” to incorporate Chapter 52, “Property Maintenance Code.” • Adopted Bill No. 16-08 amending Chapter 57 of the Township Code entitled “Fees” to incorporate Chapter 52, “Property Maintenance Code.”
The Board • Adopted Resolution No. 1490 approving the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for the years 2009 through 2013. Board Approval of Contracts • Lindy Paving, Inc., New Castle .................. $1,269,722.25 Mayview Road Turn Lane improvements • JKECO, Inc.-Bethel Park ...................................... $32,821 Community Recreation Center circuiting for exterior pool lights (change order) • El Grande Industries, Inc., Monessen .................. $40,425 Community Recreation Center Perimeter Trail Asphalt Walkway at Access Road (change order)
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.
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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• Adopted Bill No. 17-08 granting the Amendment to Chapter 104 of the Township Code “Residence Number Identification” to incorporate Chapter 52 “Property Maintenance Code.” • Approved $76,000 for 2008 Regional Environmental Education Center sustainable funding and jointly applying to Regional Asset District (RAD) $100,000 for years 2009 and 2010 and $24,000 for the year 2011. • Adopted Bill No. 18-08 to amend the 2008 Township Budget to provide supplemental appropriations for the General Fund and Capital Projects Fund expenditures. • Adopted Bill No. 19-08 appointing Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as the Paying Agent and Escrow Agent for the 2003, 2006, and 2007 outstanding Bond Issues. • Approved membership fees for the Boyce Mayview Park Community Recreation Center (CRC) indoor facilities for a family of five of $660 for a resident and $990 for a non-resident. • Approved membership fees for the Boyce Mayview Park CRC for a family of five of $300 resident, $450 non-resident for the CRC pool only membership, and $810 resident combined and $1215 non-resident combined. Board Approval of Contracts • Mele Landscaping Contractors, Inc., Rankin ..... $152,756 Connection of CRC Sanitary Sewer • Donegal Construction Corp., Greensburg .... $102,972.27 Additional excavation and soil and stone backfill to Public Works’ retaining wall and one week of overtime • Aquatic Resources Restoration Company (ARRC), Seven Valleys ........................................................ $97,381 Rehabilitation of Dominion retention pond • Landscape & More, Inc., Aliquippa ..................... $33,695 Labor and installation for Golf Course irrigation system replacement • Wolf Creek Company, McKees Rocks ............. $20,721.84 Materials for replacement of Golf Course irrigation system • Skelly and Loy, Inc., Harrisburg ........................... $43,700 FGM Engineering Design for Boyce Mayview Regional Park Northern Tributary Stream Stabilization Grant Project
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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. ■
Code requirements concerning animal control can be found on the Township website at www.twpusc.org.
2008-09 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection
2008 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates
Week of Thanksgiving Day Wednesday, November 26 (no change) Friday, November 28 (Delayed one day)
• 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.
Week of Christmas Wednesday, December 24 (no change) Friday, December 26 (Delayed one day)
• The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Hearing Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.
Visit the Township’s website www.twpusc.org
Week of New Year’s Wednesday, December 31 (no change) Friday, January 2, 2009 (Delayed one day) 2008 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 15 and 22, and December 6.
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CRC—Offering the Best for a Healthy Life
You’ve worked hard in life, so when it’s time to invest in your health and the health of your family, you deserve the very best. But the “very best” means many things to different people, which is why the USC Community Recreation Center (CRC), a 90,000 square-foot aquatics, fitness, and community center, located on Mayview Road, stands apart from the fitness and community centers throughout the Pittsburgh region. The CRC is not only a community center full of exceptional fitness and health opportunities; it is a retreat that families will cherish for generations to come. Situated on a hilltop, the CRC complements the amenities within Boyce Mayview Park, which already boasts the attributes of nature and water with ten miles of natural surface walking trails, Chartiers Creek, and outdoor recreation fields. The CRC master-planned facility hosts an abundance of amenities for all ages. Located on the first floor you will find two exercise rooms, two full size gymnasiums, senior/teen lounge, men’s/women’s locker and family changing rooms and administration offices. Children can play alongside others in the childcare room while you enjoy a wide range of classes and programs. Celebrate your family birthdays in the party rooms that overlook the indoor pool area or larger functions in the grand community room. On the second floor you will be greeted with spectacular views along the 1/8 mile low impact walking/jogging track. The spacious fitness center area, with modern equipment supplied from Hammer Strength, Life Fitness, and Expresso Bikes, offers a wide range of options such as interactive/virtual training and personal trainers, course selection in addition to cardio, weight and strength training. While exercising on the Expresso Bikes, you can choose on your 17-inch flat screen to ride through over 20 courses and trails, race with opponents, and much more! Water enthusiasts will appreciate the indoor aquatics area which hosts a fourlane heated lap pool, recreational pool with zero depth entry, interactive water gadgets, slides, resistance pool for therapeutic exercise, or strength training with underwater benches and vortex as well as a whirlpool. The outdoor aquatics water 26
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surface area expands over 6000 square feet featuring a heated zero depth entry leisure pool with interactive water play structure and gadgets, three lap lanes lined with underwater benches, Lily pad water walk, and slides. With a total outdoor deck/pool area of approximately 28,000 square feet you will be sure to find your oasis along the pool deck, in the grassy lawn area, or under the outdoor pavilion. Sensitive to the innate riches of the environment, the community’s seasoned development team purposely planned the CRC with preservation in mind. Use of native plantings and low water consumption plant landscaping materials, super insulated building shell, thermal efficient glass, high-efficiency mechanical units to minimize energy usage, and high recycled requirements for specified interior finishes, are a few of the items that make this structure environmentally friendly. Architecturally, the CRC forms a bridge between the outdoors and indoors. The exterior design was to integrate with the Boyce Mayview setting and appear as a park structure with natural exterior materials: brick, cultured stone, wood-like siding, and generous amounts of glazing to allow views into the building during the evening, shining as a lantern and highlighting the variety of activities. In addition, this allows daytime participants spectacular views of the surrounding hills, park, woods, and fields during the four seasons of the year. With the New Year right around the corner, Upper St. Clair Township is excited to share and announce membership offerings. To truly experience the Community Recreation Center, the Recreation Department will be hosting many soft openings and events throughout the early months of 2009. Contact Sarah Povazan, Membership and Marketing Services Coordinator at the USC Department of Recreation and Leisure Services at 412-831-9000, extension 207 to answer questions you may have on becoming a USC Community Recreation Center member. ■ Winter 2008
Give the Gift of Health this Holiday Season Looking for that special gift for your parents or grandparents? A membership to the Community Recreation Center is a great way to show you care about your loved ones. Giving your special someone a gift that will promote health, an active lifestyle, and community togetherness is a wonderful thing to do for the holidays!
Join Our Community in Becoming Healthier in 2009 The Township invites you to purchase your membership gift by calling Sarah Povazan, Membership and Marketing Services Coordinator, U.S.C. Department of Recreation and Leisure Services at 412-831-9000, extension 207.
Barbara Hull (left), Director of Information Technology, and Paul Besterman (center), Director of Recreation and Leisure Services, review plans with Project Manager Mark Edelmann of EPM Architecture.
A view of the interior from the indoor track.
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Meet Sarah Povazan Sarah Povazan is still a newcomer to Upper St. Clair, but her enthusiasm and experience make her a great choice as the Township’s new Membership and Marketing Services Coordinator for the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. Sarah is responsible for publicly promoting the Community Recreation Center (CRC) and selling and maintaining memberships as well as creating and maintaining marketing materials used to promote CRC memberships and programs. She brings almost ten years of experience in destination real estate throughout the Southeast and internationally, including product development, branding, market research and sourcing, strategic marketing, multi-media production management, operations, and project interior design.
“I am excited to begin spreading the word about the Community Recreation Center,” commented Sarah. “It is an honor to be able to offer families around the area something that can enhance their quality of life and the quality of life for generations Sarah Povazan, showing the drawing of the CRC to come.” Sarah’s office is currently located in interested in the CRC to stop by her office the Recreation Department at the Town- to learn more about what our community’s ship Building on McLaughlin Run Road, newest asset has to offer. Sarah and her husband, Stephen, a although she will be moving to the CRC once the facility is completed and open. Pittsburgh native, moved to Upper St. At the CRC, Sarah will be responsible Clair from Destin, Florida, last July. They for overall office organization, supervi- are parents of five children, four girls sion of guest services desks, membership and one boy, ranging in age from ten accounting, contract operations, and months to 17 years. Sarah enjoys boating, providing administrative support to the camping, and “any outdoor activity with facility manager. She encourages residents family.” ■
Department of Public Works
CRC building
in progress
From sidewalks on Fort Couch Road to the Boyce Mayview perimeter
e-hole golf
t the thre
work a Irrigation
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trail along Morton Road, the Public Works Department has been busy with a number of projects. Many of the major jobs are finished, and just in time for the winter season and snow removal! ■
Boyce Mayview perimeter trail along Morton Road, in stages of completion Sidewalk along Fo
rt Couch Road
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USC Library
New Assistive Technologies Available at the Library Computers open many worlds to us. We are constantly checking email to connect with family and friends, and we search the Internet to connect with the world around us. Many resources found in cyberspace help us become more informed, keep us entertained, and improve our daily lives. With the addition of three new software packages, access to these wonderful resources will be enhanced for patrons of the library. • Multilanguage support will give patrons the ability to change the language displayed on the screen from English to other supported languages, including Bulgarian, Croatian, French, German, Greek, Italian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, and others. Remember, not all websites translate languages. Websites designed or written in different languages will be viewable for your language preference. You can also change the keyboard to the language selected and create documents directly in that language.
All of the library’s computers are also equipped with software to help visually impaired residents more easily search the Internet or use other software packages. • Magic is a screen enlargement program which enables users to enlarge the screen information up to 20 times the normal display size. • JAWS synthesizes speech for “screen reading” to read the screen to you. All computers are equipped with either 17-inch or 20-inch monitors to help increase visibility. Headphones are available for all computers. The library staff is very excited about the world of possibilities these new technologies provide. They will be happy to help you use these new programs at your request.
Reading’s Hot! Summer is long over, but memories of the adult summer reading program, “Reading’s Hot,” will keep us warm throughout the long Pittsburgh winter. This year’s program ran June 16 through September 3 and finished with an end of summer celebration on September 4, featuring drawings for the various prize baskets for which readers had industriously submitted their book tickets. While eight lucky winners went home with filled baskets, everyone who attended received a “Thank You” gift mug filled with treats for participating in Reading’s Hot. The prizes and gifts were provided by Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair. Please remember to join in for next summer’s activities. ■
Library Hours Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. • Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24 hours a day, collected daily at 9 a.m. and at 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 3:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Sunday collection times are 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
In observance of the winter holidays, the library will • close early at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26; and Wednesday, December 31. • be closed a full day on Thursday, November 27; Wednesday, December 24; Thursday, December 25; and Thursday, January 1. Phone: 412-835-5540
Recycling Reminder for USC Residents Did You Know? • Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to keep a 100-watt bulb burning for almost four hours or runs your television for three hours. (Aluminum Association, 2004). • Producing recycled paper creates 74% less air pollution and 35% less water pollution than fabricating paper without recycled materials. 28
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The Township would like to remind its residents that not only is recycling beneficial to the environment, it is also required by state and local law. As a reminder, the following is a list of what is accepted for recycling in Upper St. Clair Township: • Aluminum: beverage cans, foil • Glass: food and beverage containers (clear, green, or amber) • Metal Cans: food cans made of steel or tin Winter 2008
• Plastics: jugs and bottles with #1, #2, #3, #4, or #5 (PETE number located on bottom of container) • Newspapers and newspaper inserts Please separate your recyclables containers from your regular trash containers at curbside during the day of trash pick up. ■
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Children’s Library Makeover
Over the past two years the Upper St. Clair Township Library’s children’s floor has undergone a wonderful makeover. It has been painted and carpeted, and the old book shelves have been replaced with a new, user-friendly shelving system that makes book browsing easy and fun. The new Play to Learn area is stocked with educational toys and games for parents and caregivers to share with their children. This area was designed for young children, babies through the kindergarten year. The educational kits will help you help your child develop the early literacy skills needed to learn to read. Your child will also find toys that foster imagination, math, and eye-hand coordination. The ne w Play Cozy spaces have been added for you to Lear n area and your child to read together. Try out the small couches just right for the two or three of you to sit in comfort and share some books. As your child begins to read, you’ll want to visit the Reader Collection. These books are written for children just learning on area on-Ficti to read, especially first and second graders. Easy N This collection is organized into four degrees of difficulty to help you and your new reader You’ll also want to check out the library’s non-fiction collecfind books on his or her level: Easy Reader, Level 1 Reader, Level tions. Easy Non-Fiction is appropriate for preschoolers through 2 Reader, and Level 3 Reader. There are also non-fiction readers in grade three. This collection provides accessible information on each of the four reading levels. The librarians can give you some many different subjects for young children. It’s a great place to find simple tips for encouraging your child as they learn to read. the answers to those “why” questions that all children ask. The Big changes have ocJuvenile Non-Fiction collection is suitable for older kids as well as curred for older kids and adults. These books are highly recommended to these teens! All of the juvenile groups when exploring a topic of interest as they offer and teen fiction collections accurate information in an easy to read format, and are now shelved by genres, usually have lots of pictures. Spend some time looking which means if you like through the non-fiction displays and you’ll be sure to sports books, you’ll find all find a book that interests you. sports books shelved toTwo new Internet stations have been added, bringgether. Our most popular ing the total to eight on the children’s floor. New study genres are humor, sports, tables easily accommodate a group project or individuals adventure, mystery, fanworking alone. This is a great place for middle and high tasy and, in the teen school students to work on those group projects. You’ll collection, chick lit. also find some comfortable seating by our window wall New study tabl es can accomm odate your grou for reading, thinking, or restorative day dreaming. p. Here’s your invitation to come for a visit and see all the updates that have been made with you in mind. Make visiting the library a part of your weekly routine! ■
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Fall into the Outdoors with the REEC Jessica Stombaugh, REEC Program Man-
“What did you learn today?” is not something you normally hear during summer vacation, but this year children were answering just that after returning home from a day at the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC). This summer the REEC welcomed over 370 students from Bridgeville KinderCare, Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair Extended Day Programs, Upper St. Clair Summer Playground, and the Greater Canonsburg Public Library Summer Reading Camp, in addition to offering five different REEC camps for over 130 children ages two through 12 on various environmental topics ranging from creek studies and wetland ecosystems to learning about nature while developing the students’ sensory skills. The newest camp, Bullfrogs & Pollywogs, was a hit this summer and paired preschool children with their parents. This program was designed to allow children to explore and discover the natural environment while meeting up with leaves, colors, insects, trees, water creatures, and flowers. They created amazing works of art and listened to stories about the many creatures that they could find all around them. Although this program was designed for the children, many parents found themselves hunting for insects, toads, and colors as well! Bullfrogs & Pollywogs was offered again this fall, and covered new topics such as pumpkins, animals, and seeds through engaging lessons, colorful fall crafts, stories, and more hands-on outdoor exploration. The little ones weren’t the only explorers on the trails this fall as the REEC welcomed back the Upper St. Clair kindergarten and fourth grade classes, and the high school AP Environmental Science class. Joining the school groups were a host of Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts enjoying the beautiful fall foliage during the Girl Scout Leaf Day and Cub Scout Orienteering Day held in October. They will be frolicking in the winter wonderland of Boyce Mayview Park during the Girl Scout Brownie Winter Fun Day (February 21, 2009) and Girl Scout Junior Frosty Fun Badge Day (February 28, 2009).
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Scouts and parents study fall leaves.
Young cam
pers explo
rs Creek.
Older campers will not be left out as the Seasonal Science Series for eight- to 12-year-old naturalists begins it’s 11th and 12th camps, focusing this time on Forestry Science (Saturdays, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 2008) and Starry Science (Wednesdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25, 2009). The stillness of winter is a wonderful time to explore the outdoors and what better way to do that than to join the staff at the REEC for a Winter Birding Talk-n-Walk program (December 14) to learn how to identify our most common winter feathered friends in the field or at your feeder. Use this program to brush up on your birding skills in preparation for the South Hills Christmas Bird Count on December 20. Volunteers of all ages and experiences are welcome to help the REEC and USC Citizens for Land Stewardship count the winter birds. Of course, the REEC doesn’t do all of this alone. The staff at the REEC would like to thank its many volunteers for their time and dedication. Each month the REEC provides volunteer opportunities for community members of all ages and backgrounds. The REEC could not operate without the help of its many hard working individuals. If you have a positive attitude and share in the Regional Environmental Education Center’s mission of connecting people with the natural surroundings, consider the many meaningful volunteer opportunities and contact volunteer coordinator Sara Homol at volunteer@RegionalEEC.org. The REEC staff hopes to see everyone out on the trails and enjoying the beauty that Upper St. Clair is so lucky to have! ■
Fritilla native ry Butterfly pollina fe tor gar eds in the R EEC’s den.
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Recreation and Leisure Services Offers Programs for All Ages Looking for something to do this winter? Check out the Recreation and Leisure Services programs. There are classes in fitness, food, fine arts, and more—fun for children and adults alike!
Karate (grades K-6), Fencing (grades 1-12), Boys’ and Girls’ Recreation Basketball (grades 3-12). Consult the Township program brochure for more information.
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Especially for Teens Children Preschool Science classes: For two- to five-year-olds and a parent or caregiver, Wednesdays, January 7–28, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Our Time Art: For two- to five-yearolds and a parent or caregiver on Fridays, January 16–February 6. Baby and Me Sign Language classes: Wednesdays, January 14–February 18, 10-11 a.m., and Mondays, January 12– February 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fun, Fitness, and Sports for Preschoolers: Fridays, January 9–February 27, noon-1 p.m. or 1-2 p.m.
Babysitter Safety (ages 11-13), Art classes—Drawing and Urban Art, and the new, calligraphy-based Lettering Unlimited (ages 12-16).
Lifelong Learner Computer classes designed for those over 50, but open to all, on Thursday afternoons and Wednesday evenings. Chicks with Sticks Knitting (adults): Yarn, knitting needles, instruction, and fun await participants in this new program. See details in the Township program brochure.
Music Together ® : For family fun, Fridays, January 9–March 20, 10-10:45 a.m. Dance classes: Preschool through age eight, including Mommy or Daddy and Me for two- to three-year-olds and parent or caregiver. Classes are available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; full schedule is available online or in the Township program brochure.
Art for Children and Adults: Winter- and spring-themed classes in clay and sculpture and drawing and painting. Fiber Fun: For ages nine to 15. Yarn, knitting needles, instruction, and fun await participants in this new program. See details in the Township program brochure. Kids in the Kitchen Cooking classes: For those in grades 1-4 on Wednesdays, January 21–February 11, 4:30-6 p.m. Kidz 2 Kidz Play in a Day workshop: For ages seven to 12, Friday evening and Saturday, January 9 and 10.
Cooking and Baking classes: Yum! Learn to prepare delicious and healthy Indian food, nut rolls, biscotti, lady locks, and pierogies. In addition, the Recreation and Leisure Services Department offers classes and workshops on subjects like calligraphy, Making Small Books, crochet, scrapbooking, and digital photography to provide a creative winter outlet for your leisure time. If you’re looking to maintain health and fitness in 2009, join one or many of the exercise programs: Body Sculpting, T’ai Chi, Yoga, ZUMBA®, Indoor Boot Camp, Body Effort, Stretch and Strengthen, and Yoga Therapy.
For more information, visit www.twpusc.org/rec/index.html or contact the Township’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services office at 412-831-9000, extension 256. Winter 2008
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70 Fort Couch Road, Upper St. Clair
412-833-6166 www.stevenrcrandalldmd.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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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, Po lice De part ment, 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 coop er a tion 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. 8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow. They are for your safety.
3. When streets are plowed, snow will be pushed in front of driveways. Unfortunately, there is no other place for the snow to go.
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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.
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.
4. The Public Works Department is not permitted to assist residents by clearing driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mailboxes. 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.
6. The Township cannot rec om mend contractors or companies that provide
2. Air Science Consultants are available to the Public Works Department on a 24-hour contracted basis and provide periodic advance weather forecasting.
4. The Public Works Department minimizes 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 temperatures and information obtained from Air Science Consultants.
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.
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 gar bage 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.
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.
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: Winter 2008
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.
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Asset Building—Together We Can Dream, Work, Achieve Jeff Krantz, Chair, Youth Steering Committee (USC), Karen Johnson, Chair, PAUSA Perhaps when you and your family moved into this area, you harbored a particular dream of a wonderful community where your children could learn, grow, and enjoy. Certainly, Upper St. Clair is one where persons of varied ages and background can find many attributes of a wonderful community and enjoy them as well. Most residents are wise enough to understand that to sustain a community such as USC requires a certain amount of work and a commitment to continuously seek improvement where and when possible. And for what benefit? Together, a healthier community can be achieved by turning our attention to the “developmental assets” within our community. People are beginning to talk about developmental assets, community resilience, and young people. Longitudinal research studies have demonstrated that the more developmental assets each child acquires, the less risky behavior is undertaken, and the more successful skills are developed. Community members are invited to attend a workshop entitled “Everyone’s an
Asset Builder.” The workshop has been selected as a tool to encourage, inform, and engage interested members of the community regarding developmental assets. In so doing, the workshop hopes to address five cognitive issues: • Understand the framework for developmental assets and the role of asset builders. • Identify the characteristics of effective asset builders as well as their personal strengths and challenges. • Understand “circles of influence” and their potential for asset building. • Explore barriers to being an asset builder. • Make and share a personal commitment toward action-oriented asset building. During each morning of the two-day session, the Youth Steering Committee (YSC) will sponsor a four-hour educational/informational workshop. Please consider joining your neighbors and friends at these sessions. These sessions will be open to the community, but attendance is limited and a nominal fee will be requested at registration. The costs of the training materials, the
trainer, and other incidentals will be partially offset through a grant from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and a Community Drug Prevention Grant from the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. YSC, in partnership with the Community Foundation, Parents Against Underage Substance Abuse (PAUSA), and others, invites readers to explore the work of the Search Institute as well as the concept of developmental assets at www.search-institute. org/assets/. The efforts of the YSC, PAUSA, and other community youth initiatives are directed toward a healthier community for all. Work with YSC to help our youth and energize our community. Imagine the possibilities as one positively energized community links with another! ■
The “Everyone’s an Asset Builder” workshop is scheduled for early 2009. For more information about this effort, contact YSC at yscusc@gmail.com.
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Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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USC-USTC The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair
Back to School is Good for the Brain, at Any Age Kevin Kramer Our children head back to school to continue their education, connect with old friends, and meet the new kids. The ritual goes on every year, and the results remain the same. Knowledge is passed on from teacher to student and lessons learned are stored until needed later in life. The socialization of our children is a vital part of their education process as they learn to work with, cope with, and care for others in their group. When learning and socialization takes place, some very important physical changes take place as well. New and challenging input is processed by the brain and stored through connections created to manage the input. These connections are constantly being created during the process of learning and socialization. A dense tangle of connections ensures that processing is efficient and the brain remains healthy. A basic understanding of how connections are made will help you to maintain your memory throughout your life. In our culture it is perfectly normal, even expected, that your activity schedule slows down the nearer you get to retirement age. Many older Americans face the deterioration of their brain connections as they move further away from formal education and work; and they may notice the symptoms of memory loss. What is happening is that the connections that they have made over time begin to break down,
and they are not doing activities that they once did to replace those connections. The good news is that you can make new connections at any age. The bad news is that you lose brain connections at an accelerated rate as you age. So your challenge is to replace connections as quickly as you lose them to maintain a dense tangle of Left to right are K and (seated) evin Kramer, Silver Scho connections and a healthy Phil Faria, Ja lars instructor nice (s Betty Sterns, Faria, Donna Johns, John tanding), brain. and Betsy Kre Ticich, bs. How can this be done? Many neurologists suggest practicing an active lifestyle build new connections. Brush your teeth that includes lifelong learning and neuro- or use the computer mouse with your opbic exercises for their patients. According posite hand. Take a different route home to Dr. Paul Nussbaum, PhD., clinical and memorize landmarks. Eat your dinner neurophysiologist from the University of backwards, dessert first, to make your brain Pittsburgh (www.paulnussbaum.com), adjust to a tasty change in tradition. brain health begins with an overall healthy Get out of the house and socialize. Meet lifestyle with regular doses of lifelong new people. Listen and learn about their learning. Begin by learning something lives and times. Share your experiences. totally new and challenging. The process Grow new brain connections! will replace lost connections. Learn to Finally, challenge yourself. Join a book use the computer or take a course about discussion club and participate. Go back a computer program that you are not cur- to school and take courses in things that rently using. Go to events and outings to you have avoided in the past. Set lifelong meet new people. Attend a seminar on a learning goals and stick to them. As Dr. topic that interests you, but one you don’t Nussbaum says, “When you retire, don’t know much about. retire from life!” Continue by doing common tasks in After a bit of soul searching, Margaret a new way. The novelty will help you to recently decided to challenge herself. She
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.
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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.
T became a rookie computer student at the age of 60 plus. Margaret began taking basic computer classes presented by Kevin Kramer from Silver Scholars held at a local recreation center. Margaret had never touched a computer before, so she came to her first class with the usual anxiety and anticipation of a new student at any age. Margaret worked on her computer skills at home every day between classes. She found that it really didn’t take too long to learn to send email, surf the Internet, and write letters. In fact she recently sent a letter, produced in Microsoft Word, to Kevin thanking him for taking the time to teach mature adults. She suggested that if she could learn the computer, anyone can. In addition to her new-found computer skills, Margaret started to notice a common benefit of her daily computing: her mind was functioning better. She said, “Now, when I go downstairs for something I remember what I went for.” She said she can go to the store without a list and remember everything she came for. In other words, she believes that her memory has improved, and the only lifestyle change she made was daily interaction with her computer. Of course, as with any exercise, the results will be determined by the effort made and the physical characteristics of each individual. Look around and you will find literally dozens of opportunities to create connections in your brain every day. You make the choice whether to participate or avoid those activities. If you participate, you gain connections at an accelerated rate to replace the ones you lost that day. If you
choose to stay in and watch TV, you run the risk of losing more connections than you made that day. You actually lose more connections watching TV than you do sleeping. So to maintain a healthy brain, you must participate in something. Here are some more helpful neurobic activities: play bridge, volunteer your services in varied capacities, knit, work with a personal computer at your home or library, practice neurobic exercises found in books or on the Internet, travel to a new place and just drive around, start a new set of self-improvement classes, join your friends in one of their hobbies, or square dance. Don’t give up learning just because you’re retired! Retirement is an opportunity to explore new adventures and meet new people. It is also an opportunity to spend personal time exploring new topics and learning new skills. For that you may need to go back to school. Think about maintaining a healthy brain every day. Look for new, novel, and challenging activities and give them a try. You will build brain connections regardless of your success. ■
To learn more about how personal computing can help you maintain a healthy brain, contact Barbara or Kevin Kramer at Silver Scholars at 412-283-0105. Silver Scholars is currently holding basic computer classes designed for Boomers and Beyond through the Upper St. Clair Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. Visit www.silverscholars.com for details.
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Silver Scholars participants, left to right, are John Ticich, Donna Johns, Janice Faria, and Phil Faria Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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T Directory of Important Numbers Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency
412-833-7500 • 724-941-7500 Township Offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday - Friday Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 216 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 501 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 226 Recreation – 412-831-9000, ext. 256 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 271 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500 Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710 Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) 412-835-0660 Library – 412-835-5540 Township INFO LINE (24-hour access) 412-854-5353 Frequently Called Numbers
Cable 7 (Public Access Television) 412-831-1030 Robert C. Wyda (District Justice) 412-835-1661 League Of Women Voters 412-261-4284 Neighborhood Greetings 412-561-8845 Post Office – 1-800-275-8777 School District – 412-833-1600 Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556 Three-Hole Golf Course 412-831-7556 USC Chamber of Commerce 412-833-9111 Utilities & Services
Comcast Cable Communications Sales, Service, and Billing 1-800-266-2278 Allegheny Power – 1-800-255-3443 Columbia Gas Company 724-416-6300 Dominion People’s Gas Company 1-800-764-0111 Equitable Gas Company 412-395-3050 PA American Water Company 412-344-4400 Verizon – 1-800-660-2215 36
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Holiday Safety Tips from USCVFD Family, friends, decorations,
and celebrations are part of the holiday season. So are a few hazards. The members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department would like to share the following tips and information so that we all have a happy and safe holiday season.
Lighting and Electrical Holiday lights and electrical decorations create holiday cheer both inside and outside the home, but they can also create fire hazards and electrical shock risks if they are not handled properly. The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department recommends taking the following precautions while decorating your home this year: • Inspect holiday lights and extension cords before decorating. Replace any that are fraying or damaged. Pay special attention to lights, cords, or decorations that may have been damaged from winter weather conditions. • Check for red or green UL marks on all light strings and extension cords. The green holographic UL mark means the light strings should be used only indoors. The red holographic UL mark indicates the light strings can be used both inside and out, and can withstand conditions related to outdoor use. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for stringing light sets together. As a general rule, UL recommends using no more than three standard-size sets of lights together. • Hang or mount light strands carefully to avoid damaging the cord’s insulation. • Do not overload extension cords or electrical receptacles. • Unplug all holiday lights when you go to sleep or leave home. • Plug outdoor decorations into outlets protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) to prevent shock. • Automatic lighting timers can be used to ensure that lights are not left on. These are available for both indoor and outdoor use. • Roll up excess electrical cords and keep them away from high traffic areas. Do not run electrical cords under rugs. • Never keep an extension cord plugged in when it is not in use. • When replacing a light bulb, be sure to Winter 2008
use the correct bulb size (wattage) meant for the fixture. • Use receptacle outlet safety caps to keep children from putting things into outlets.
Candle Safety Candles can provide a warm and festive atmosphere, but they can also be a fire hazard if left unattended or placed near anything flammable. • Make sure an adult is in the room and paying attention whenever a candle is lit. Blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room. • Do not permit children to keep or use candles or incense in their rooms. Candles should only be used when a sober adult is present and awake. • Never use lighted candles on or near a Christmas tree or other evergreens. • Keep candles at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including other decorations and wrapping paper. • Always use stable, nonflammable candle holders with a hurricane glass to enclose the open flame. • Place candles where they will not be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of pets and young children. • If you have children in your home, store candles, matches, and lighters in a locked cabinet out of their sight and reach. • To eliminate the risk of an open candle flame, use battery-powered candles whenever possible, especially when you combine candles with greenery or other decorations.
Christmas Trees Trimming the tree is a traditional holiday pastime; however, Christmas trees pose a serious danger to households if not properly cared for. • When purchasing live, cut trees or
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greens, carefully inspect the needles. If they’re brown or break easily, the greenery isn’t fresh and poses a greater fire risk. Test for freshness by bending a few needles in half. If they snap in two, the tree is dry. Look for a tree where the needles spring back to their original shape. When you take your tree home, put it in a sturdy, non-tip stand filled with water. Keep live trees supplied with water at all times; dehydrated Christmas trees can catch fire more easily. Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any flame or heat source. Never decorate trees with candles. Try to position the tree near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it blocks exits. Inspect electrical lights and extension cords for wear and tear and replace any cords that are beginning to fray or have broken sockets. Pay special attention to outdoor lights that have been exposed to winter weather conditions. To reduce fire hazards and extend the life of outdoor
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decorative lights, bring them inside after the holidays. Avoid cluttering outlets. String no more than three strands of lights together and make sure all lights bear the mark of an independent organization such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). When decorating indoors, use only those lights listed for indoor use. Unplug all lights—inside and out—before going to bed or leaving home. Safely dispose of the tree when it begins to drop needles. Dried-out trees are flammable and should not be left inside the home or garage, or placed against the house. Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Don’t forget to install, test, and maintain these devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Develop and practice a fire escape plan for your household so overnight guests are familiar with your procedures. ■
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cell:
To view how quickly a room can become engulfed in flames from a dry Christmas tree, visit the USCVFD website at www.uscvfd.org and click on the video link. sandy@sandygoldstein.com
Officer Kubala Retires
Coffey Contracting Co. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA
ROOFING & CHIMNEYS
After 27 years of service, Officer
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Kevin Kubala retired from the USC Police Department on October 16. Officer Kubala had been a DARE instructor, served in the
We can recreate workmanship and styles from any Architectural Era
position of corporal and juvenile officer, and was a member of the Accident Reconstruction Team. Kevin and his wife are in the process of moving to Florida where he plans to operate a business with his wife and another couple. The entire community thanks Kevin for his years of service and wishes him well as he retires. He will be missed. ■
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Winter 2008
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2009 EMS Subscription Drive Tri-Community South EMS
has begun its annual subscription drive. Subscription information has been mailed to each known residence in Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park. If you do not receive your subscription mailing by December 15, 2008, 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 insurance carrier as payment in full for the services rendered, and you will not receive any direct bill for these services. Non-subscribers must pay the full amount of the invoice, regardless of what the insurer pays. Your subscription helps Tri-Community South continue to provide quality ambulance service when you need it, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Tri-Community South is owned and operated by the Municipality of Bethel Park and the Townships of South Park and Upper St. Clair. The system attempts to recover operating costs by billing for services and accepting insurance reimbursements, and by conducting the annual subscription drive.
In 2008, of the 25,447 households in the service area, only 7095, or less than 28%, subscribed to Tri-Community South. The cost to operate the service is reflected in the fees for service, but insurers generally pay much less than this. If operating costs cannot be recovered by the fees and the subscription drive, 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 Local Services Tax enacted in 2005 to replace the Occupational Privilege Tax. Your subscription entitles you to medically necessary emergency ambulance service 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,
Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your homeowner’s coverage The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer lines. There is no way to predict when the next sanitary sewer backup will occur. And while only a handful of our residents experience a significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating if a resident is not insured for losses—losses that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Sewer Backup Insurance Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences. Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage. Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271.
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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. Services that are not “reasonable and necessary” are not covered by your subscription. ■
Su b scr s cr i be Now ! 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, 2009, 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 December 30, 2008 - January 19, 2009. 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.
Sean Casey, the Friendliest Guy in Baseball
Spend Time With Your Doctor
Michael Quinlin With a name like Sean Casey, you’re bound to get a good greeting in Red Sox Nation, which had its not-so-humble beginnings in the early 20th century when Michael McGreevey led a band of raucous Sox fans—many of them Irish—called the Royal Rooters. But the newest Boston Red Sox player is a popular guy wherever he’s been in his illustrious major league baseball career. The convivial big-leaguer with the sunny disposition has always had an upbeat, outgoing personality. Over the past 12 seasons the chatty first baseman has honed his conversational skills with thousands of players from across the league who have landed on his base. Last year a Sports Illustrated poll of the players themselves voted Casey “the friendliest player in baseball.” And he’s known around the league as the mayor because of his approachable demeanor. Of course, Casey is much more than a master conversationalist and all-around good guy. He’s a three-time All Star and National League MVP who has played for the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Detroit Tigers before coming to the Boston Red Sox this past season. Casey grew up in Upper St. Clair, where his parents, Jim and Joan Casey, continue to reside today. Casey excelled in high school and won a small scholarship to the University of Richmond where he developed into a fearsome hitter. His senior year he won the NCAA batting title by hitting .461. He made his major league debut in 1997 with Cleveland, then spent the next eight seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, where he was selected to the National League All-Star team three times. He has a lifetime batting average of .302, and was named the Most Valuable Player of the National League’s in 1999, batting .332. Like any little league kid day-dreaming about the big leagues, Casey got his chance to play before his hometown crowd, when he spent a year with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2006. “It was a dream come true,” he recalls. “I was a Pirate fan growing up—watching Willie Stargel and those guys. So playing at PNC Park in downtown Pittsburgh is something I’ll never forget.”
Familiar with the Bay State Married with three children, Casey now feels right at home in Massachusetts. It turns out he’s been there before. As a 20-year-old junior at Richmond, he played for the Brewster
Sean Casey’s official Red Sox photo
Whitecaps in the Cape Cod Baseball League in the summer of 1994. “When I went to the Cape I realized how beautiful Massachusetts was,” he recalls. “I just fell in love with it.” That summer Casey also met his good pal Father Paul O’Brien, the dynamic parish priest at St. Patrick’s Church in Lawrence who started Cor Unam (One Heart) Meal Center, feeding hundreds of working poor families in this city of immigrants. Casey and O’Brien shared an Irish-Catholic background, sense of humor, and outlook on life that formed the basis of a lasting friendship. When O’Brien became pastor at St. Patrick’s in 2001, he began making plans for the pantry. He and Casey, along with comedian Conan O’Brian and others, started a fundraising campaign titled “Labels are for Jars,” which raised needed funds while also discouraging negative stereotyping. In September 2006 they officially opened the center. Casey is a man of faith whose social conscience was formed by his parents. He is also proud of his Irish Catholic heritage. “My great grandfather came over from County Cork around the time of the Irish potato famine, when he was 14 years old,” Casey says. “He came over to Staten Island, and ended up on Long Island.” Atop Casey’s wish list, he says, is to undertake some genealogical research and compile a family history of the Casey clan. Another goal is to make his long-awaited trip to Ireland. “I have never been to Ireland, but I’m gonna go, I’m gonna go soon,” he says. Casey would fit right in over in Ireland, because that’s the kind of guy he is. For now, he’s traveling throughout Red Sox Nation, getting the royal treatment wherever he goes. ■ Note: Sean Casey and his family continue to maintain a home in Upper St. Clair. Contributing writer Michael P. Quinlin helps with cultural tourism and has recently established the website www.irishpennsylvania.com. Michael grew up in Castle Shannon, and now lives in the Boston area with his wife and son. He comes back to Pittsburgh regularly to visit family. For information on “Labels are for Jars,” visit http://labelsareforjars.org/. Winter 2008
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Pediatric Dentistry South Piccolina’s Restaurant Pinebridge Commons Associates Primary Physicians Research Questa Petroleum Co. Eric J. Reitz DMD & Gary J. Yanniello, DMD Richardson Family South Hills Financial Group State Farm Insurance Suburban Dry Cleaners Wininsky Law Offices
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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 6. Luminaria kits, including 12 candles, bags, and sand, are $10. The luminaria sale is sponsored by the USC Band Parents Association. Proceeds benefit USCHS music department students. For more information, call 412-831-2991, 412-851-1199, or visit www.uscbpa.org.
Luminaria Kit Order Form Name: ________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ Zip: __________________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________ Number of kits _______ x $10 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 2008
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Amigo’s Restaurante and Cantina Ann Taylor Anthropologie Bravo! Cucina Italiana Caché Carmike Galleria Cinemas Chico’s Coldwater Creek Crabtree & Evelyn Footloose & Footloose Etc. Godiva Chocolatier Gymboree Gymboree Play & Music H. Baskin Clothier Houlihan‘s Janie & Jack Jernigan’s Tobacco Village
Jezebel Juliette Larrimor’s Learning Express Mark Pi’s China Gate Mimi Maternity Mitchell’s Fish Market Panera Bread Pottery Barn Kids Restoration Hardware Signatures Starbucks Coffee Talbots/Petites/Woman/Shoes Today’s Tiffany Lamp Co. Track ’n Trail Tutto Bella Williams-Sonoma Zarelli & Co. Hairdressing
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Winter 2008
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Learning Express Gives Back Amy Bahm, Owner, Learning Express Toys, Gal-
Winter Wishes
Grant Their
Create a magical holiday with unique toys and educational products you won’t find anywhere else.
The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon 1500 Washington Rd • Mt Lebanon, PA • (412) 341-TOYS 44
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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As owners of a local business, my husband, David, and I enjoy the opportunity to give back to the community that has helped make us successful. Participation in fundraising opportunities for schools and civic organizations is what makes Learning Express a hub for interactivity and community spirit. As an example, the store’s grand opening event in June hosted a charity night with proceeds benefiting the Mario Lemieux Foundation’s Playroom Project. In just one evening, donations of $2000 worth of toys were made that will furnish new and existing playrooms in hospitals throughout Western Pennsylvania! Iceburgh, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ mascot, joined in at the event that also featured face painting and balloon artists. Learning Express has partnered with the Lemieux Foundation for ongoing support and looks forward to hosting similar events for that organization in the future. Several special holiday shopping events are planned exclusively for parents and friends affiliated with local schools and civic organizations. Learning Express will donate a portion of the proceeds from purchases made by certain groups during the events, thereby allowing them to raise much needed funds for their organizations. And customers can complete their holiday shopping at the same time! ■For more information about the playroom project initiative, visit www. mariolemieux.org/medical/playroom.htm. See ad on this page.
Dance Workshop by Shari Keeps on Giving Cathy Lavin, Studio Manager As we approach the “season of giving,” we tend to focus on those people who are special to us. We want to find the perfect gift for parents, teachers, neighbors, and the children in our lives. Dance Workshop by Shari believes in giving gifts all year long, which is reflected in its Dancing for a Difference™ philosophy. This phrase describes the two-fold mission of the studio to provide top quality dance instruction, while also allowing the staff and students the opportunity to use their talents in a positive way to benefit the community. Everyone is a winner—the children learn the value of giving back to the community, and the local and national charities that the studio supports receive much needed funds from the efforts of the students. Since 2002, Dance Workshop by Shari has been producing two benefit shows each year to raise money for various children’s organizations. Have A Heart by Rudy and Friends™ and Gifts of Dance™ are full scale variety shows featuring children performers from the South Hills communities. Carson Murphy, a junior at USC High School says, “Our performances at the benefit shows are
some of my most memorable times. It has been so rewarding to be able to do what I love and help worthwhile causes through the beauty of dance and music.” Some of the recipients of the donations have been Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Free Care Fund, Gilda’s Club, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. So far, Dance Workshop by Shari has raised and donated over $43,000. The fifth annual holiday show, Gifts of Dance™ will be held Saturday, December 6 at Bethel Park High School. It will feature children’s choirs, choruses, musicians, and dancers from most of the South Hills communities. It is a joy to watch and a wonderful way to start the holiday season. The performance is open to the public and donations are collected at the door. Don’t miss the chance to see this inspirational show put on by children and young adults between the ages of five and 18. The money collected will be donated to the Free Care Fund of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. When asked why she wants to perform at Gifts of Dance™ each year, Emily Brinsky, a fifth grader at Boyce Middle School, said,
“Taking part in the program means that I get to do the things that I love: dancing and helping others.” Dance Workshop by Shari is celebrating its 18th season in Caste Village Shoppes in nearby Whitehall. The studio is home to hundreds of students who range in age from two and a half years old to 18. These students have the opportunity to learn from a dedicated and talented staff with years of experience in dance technique as well as teaching and nurturing children and young adults. In addition to dance instruction, the studio offers musical theater, acrobatics, vocal, and “Mom and Me” classes. Bridget Murphy, an eighth grader at Fort Couch Middle School sums it up when she says, “Seeing the studio walls painted with the Gifts of Dance™ and Have a Heart™ logos are a constant reminder that our studio believes in helping others, and I get to do what I enjoy the most, dance!” ■ For more information on Gifts of Dance™ or the studio offerings, call 412-884-5099, email contact@danceworkshopbyshari.com, or visit www.danceworkshopbyshari.com. See ad on page 44.
USC Welcomes Acqua Blu Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center Owned by board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Vassar Heil, FACS, the 5000 square-foot Upper St. Clair medical spa Acqua Blu Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center opened its doors this past June. Located on Route 19 Washington Road just north of South Hills Village, it offers stateof-the-art non-surgical based therapies in an environment that is as luxurious and sophisticated as a world-class spa.
In addition, there is a retail boutique with the most sought after beauty products for women. Select men’s and teenage products are also available. Many of the products are exclusive to Acqua Blu. Several products are from around the world and are sold in the most sophisticated retail stores and resorts such as Neiman Marcus, Fred Segal, Henri Bendel, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Trump Plaza, and Canyon Ranch Spas. The Acqua Blu facial menu features a bounty of exotic treatments, including Blu’s signature Radiant Pearl Facial, luxurious spa facials, medical microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, chemical peels, waxing, tinting and massage. An unexpected treat, Acqua Blu also offers an array of personal items and home accessories. Winter 2008
Dr. Heil’s first medi-spa shares its suite within Premier Plastic Surgery, his privately-owned practice and fully accredited surgical center located in Cranberry Township. In addition to Dr. Heil, Acqua Blu’s staff includes physician assistants, registered nurses, medical assistants, and licensed estheticians. Because Acqua Blu is associated with Premier Plastic Surgery, the center is able to offer a complete range of surgical and non-surgical procedures. All plastic surgery procedures are performed in Cranberry Township’s fully accredited surgical center or at nearby surgical facilities. ■ Brian V. Heil, MD, FACS is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and specializes in cosmetic surgery procedures. See ad on page 44. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Upper St. Clair School District Board Appoints Frank Kerber as School Director
School District News
Board of School Directors
Angela B. Petersen President 412-831-7182 2011*
Amy L. Billerbeck Vice President 412-833-2712 2011*
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2011*
Carol B. Coliane 412-851-0784 2009*
Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2009*
Harry F. Kunselman 412-851-1115 2009*
Louis A. Piconi 412-831-1880 2011*
Rebecca A. Stern 412-220-0745 2011*
William M. Sulkowski 412-221-9516 2009*
The 2008 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the High School LGI room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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New school director Frank J. Kerber brings a blend of skills and experience to the table as he takes on the vacancy left by Daniel Iracki’s resignation from the board this past August. Frank, his wife, Melanie (an Upper St. Clair High School graduate), and their son, Brandon, moved to the Township’s Deerfield Manor neighborhood in 2006, following Frank’s retirement after 26 years with the Foreign Service. Frank’s father was an Army officer, so his family moved a lot when he was young, including a three-year stint in Germany in the 50s. Eventually, they settled in Cincinnati, where Frank lived until 1974. After receiving his BA from a small liberal arts college in Cincinnati, Frank went to Georgetown University for his MS degree and joined the Foreign Service in Brandon, Melanie, and Frank Kerber enjoy family time. 1976. Since moving to Upper St. Clair, Frank has taken the position of Director of College Placement at Central Catholic High School, and is an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. Frank said he applied for the vacancy on the Upper St. Clair School Board out of a sense of service. “I have a son who is a junior at the high school,” he said, “and I wanted, in some way, to give back for the education the District is giving him.” When asked about the challenges he sees facing him in his new role as school director, Frank acknowledged the time involved with the job. “I’ve attended school board meetings, and have a lot of respect for the amount of time board members put in.” He said he is open to whatever challenges may be ahead, and hopes to maintain the high quality of education in the District. In their spare time, Frank said his family enjoy going to the theatre and symphony, as well as cheering on the area sports teams, especially the Steelers. They also like movies, reading, and travel. When asked about his dream vacation, Frank said that while he has many favorite places, his family loves the beach. For him, a couple of weeks in the Caribbean, relaxing and listening to the waves, would be the way to spend his time off. ■
Many Thanks for Years of Service Thank you to outgoing Upper St. Clair School Board Director Daniel Iracki (December 2005-August 2008) for his dedication and commitment to the students and residents of Upper St. Clair. ■
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Academic Integrity Code Ready for a Pilot Year Jace Palmer, M.Ed., M.P.M., Assistant High School Principal During summer 2007 an article appeared in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
highlighting an initiative by the Upper St. Clair High School administration to develop an honor code. For the past year and a half, an ethics committee has worked hard to develop the Academic Integrity Code that will ideally become a valued asset to our high school culture. Co-chaired by mathematics teacher Kevin Coffman and assistant principal Jace Palmer, the committee comprised parents, students, faculty, and administrators. Through a grant from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, Dr. Karen Clifford, a consultant representing the Center for Academic Integrity at Duke University, visited the high school and met with various members of the school’s constituents. During this June 2007 visit, students, faculty, administrators, and parents were all interviewed in an effort to gauge their experiences and opinions concerning academic integrity issues such as plagiarism and cheating at the high school level. A detailed report from Dr. Clifford was submitted to the school’s ethics committee documenting recommendations from the site visit. The 2007-08 school year found the ethics committee meeting several more times in an effort to mesh Dr. Clifford’s recommendations with the specific needs of USCHS. As a result of this process, the faculty and students at the high school began the fall 2008 semester with several new academic routines. The first addition to the classroom culture is an Academic Integrity Belief Statement that is clearly posted in every area of learning in the building. The statement reads “The staff and students of the nationally recognized Upper St. Clair High School pledge to act truthfully and with dignity both in and out of the classroom by refraining from all acts of cheating and plagiarism and being sincere in our actions to other people and property.” These words written by the Ethics Committee will serve as the cornerstone in developing an academic culture that places a strong emphasis on nurturing the academic talents of each student through his or her own individual work and effort.
Secondly, each ninth though 12th grade student will write out and sign a brief Honor Pledge at the end of each and every assessment that is submitted to a teacher. Examples include homework, papers, quizzes, and tests. The pledge is quickly becoming a part of each student’s daily routine and is also posted prominently in
Some members of the high school ethics committee are left to right, front row: Janine Despines (ethics committee member), Debbie Rentschler (Middle States site visit co-coordinator); back row: Kevin Coffman and Jace Palmer (ethics committee cochairs). Not pictured: Leslie Leeds (Middle States action plan coordinator).
each classroom of USCHS. It reads “I certify that the work I am submitting is my own and that I have not sought any assistance that would constitute cheating or plagiarism.” Although this pledge will not necessarily eliminate all forms of academic dishonesty, it will serve as a constant reminder of the high school’s efforts toward curbing such indiscretions. Finally, teachers at the high school will be using a separate form to report instances of academic dishonesty to the administration. In the past, such violations were recorded using a traditional disciplinary form and teachers would sometimes not report such infractions by opting to handle such situations within their individual classrooms. Now, all faculty will follow a standardized reporting procedure, thereby adding consistency to the integrity code that is fair to students across both grade level and subject area. Winter 2008
Recently, USCHS was given full accreditation by the Middle States organization. One of the high school’s two goals during this process was that by the year 2015 “Students will demonstrate academic integrity in the areas of cheating and plagiarism.” Naturally, one way that the monitoring of such a goal can be documented is through the use of a consistent and standardized reporting process that the new Academic Integrity Violation Referral Forms will establish. Last year, the USCHS English Department piloted the use of turnitin.com. This massive database assists teachers in developing their students own propensity for proper citations of others’ work, as well as helping them to create their own writing styles. Students must submit their writings and research papers to the website, which in turn offers the student and teacher a percentage of how much of the writing has been cited improperly. The objective for this program is that of a learning tool, where only final drafts of papers are held to the highest standards. In an era of powerful technology and limitless accessibility to information, the modern high school student is subject to more temptations involving cheating than were students in previous generations. Upper St. Clair High School’s first year pilot program for the eventual implementation of a student Academic Integrity Code is an initial step towards dealing with these issues directly. As the process unfolds, the ethics committee will continue to meet periodically in an effort to evaluate additional considerations that may one day become a part of District policy. The formation of an Academic Integrity Board is one possibility. Placing a “seal of distinction” on a student’s permanent record is another. (This would be for students who attend four years at USCHS without ever being referred for a cheating or plagiarism violation). In the meantime, creating an environment where students can achieve while doing their own work will continue to be one of the primary goals of Upper St. Clair High School as the world continues its navigation through the information age. ■
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Implementing Project ACHIEVE
Ellie Stoehr, USC School District Supervisor of Pupil Personnel Services Educating students is about Project ACHIEVE is a good fit for reading, writing, and arithmetic—and Upper St. Clair because it is flexmuch more. Acquiring social skills and ible enough to keep in place the establishing a safe environment are equally many components that have conimportant to address the needs of the tributed to the high achievement whole child. Those who work in schools of our students while helping routinely update their knowledge in the the staff to update and modify subjects they teach and are introduced others, particularly those reperiodically to a variety of methods and lated to communicating the practices for instruction. This is the expectations of appropriate philosophy of continuous progress and behavior to students. Assistimprovement embraced by the Upper St. ing the staff in this initiative is Clair School District. In a similar vein, this Dr. Howard Knoff, Director year the staff in the Upper St. Clair School of Project ACHIEVE, who Boyce te District will add to their knowledge of stu- has over 20 years experiacher D ebbie Fo ence of leading schools and dents’ social development and behavior. rd work s with M att Dudle During the 2007-08 school year, the districts through this process. y. One of the areas in which the District District was the recipient of a Safe Schools will concentrate is Now, just as the staff reviews and updates Initiative grant from the Pennsylvania Project ACHIEVE is a District-wide the establishment its curriculums and teaching approaches school success model focused on of expectations of periodically, it will also address the school Department of maximizing the academic progress appropriate behav- climates with respect to a safe and orderly Education that has enabled it to imple- and social, emotional, and behavioral ior that are agreed environment in a similar fashion. It is an ment components upon by staff at each opportunity for specific communication development of all students. of Project ACHIEVE, level—elementary, between one another about expectations an evidence based program, recognized middle, and high school. These expecta- and to examine how these expectations by the U.S. Department of Health and tions will address appropriate behavior in lead to a safe and orderly environment. Human Services as a model program. the various locations in the school, includProject ACHIEVE will also prompt the Project ACHIEVE is a District-wide school ing classrooms and common spaces (halls, District’s staff to each look at his or her success model focused on maximizing the nutrition centers, and playgrounds). These own assumptions about what the students academic progress and social, emotional, expectations will then be communicated to know about the teacher’s expectations and and behavioral development of all stu- the students and age-appropriate instruc- to be clear about how students will demondents. This is done through supporting tion will take place to ensure that they strate positive behaviors. With many of the processes that maximize student achieve- know how to demonstrate the appropriate District’s veteran staff members retiring in recent years, there is a significant number ment. Some of these processes include behavior. The common sense nature of this of teachers who have entered the District creating safe school environments and positive school climates. Another is build- portion of the project is deceiving in its in the past five years. Dedicating time to ing effective teaching and problem-solving simplicity. The District has had rules or ex- discuss and plan collectively will result in teams that provide interventions for chal- pectations for students to follow for years. a framework that identifies the positive behaviors that are expected of the students lenging students. and the consequences that will be applied consistently when inappropriate behavior occurs. The aim is for students to learn and practice skills in managing their own behavior and making good choices. ■
’Brien
arney O k and B ing. o y n o lsey M HIEVE train hers Ke C ch teac the Project A u o C t r s s Fo u c is d
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Middle leve
l teachers
at a recent
training se
ssion
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2008 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame Twelve of Upper St. Clair’s finest were honored on Friday, October 10 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 Baldwin. It is with great pride that we recognize the inductees of the 2008 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame.
Arts Hall of Fame
Academic Hall of Fame
Timothy Meehan Kelly Doran
Carissa Tener
Paul Savidge Kristin McClintock-LeBeau
Cami (Camilie) Hulin Dougg (Douglas) Williams Patricia Dunkis
Kathy (Kathleen) Kirsch
Class of 2008 Halls of Fame Inductees
Athletic Hall of Fame
Academic Student Alumni Honorees Kelly Doran (1998) Paul Savidge (1978) Carissa Tener (1996) Administrative/Staff Honorees Patricia Dunkis Kathy (Kathleen) Kirsch
Arts Student Alumni Honorees Cami (Camilie) Hulin (1998) Kristin McClintock-LeBeau (1995) Timothy Meehan (1998) Dougg (Douglas) Williams (1976)
Athletics
Kyra Kaylor
Lori Harris
Student Alumni Honorees Lori Harris (1991) Kyra Kaylor (2003) Kurt Keller (1979) Kurt Keller (Year in parentheses indicates year of USCHS graduation) Winter 2008
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Elementary Curriculum News
Dr. Judith Bulazo, Director of Professional Development and Elementary Education (K-4) Although rated the number one school district in Pennsylvania, Upper St. Clair has never been satisfied with the status quo. Each year brings changes and enhancements to its curricular programs. The elementary teachers and curriculum leaders are hard at work accomplishing this year’s curriculum goals. The following are some highlights of what will be occurring throughout the course of the 2008-09 school year.
Handwriting Without Tears The Handwriting Without Tears program, piloted in kindergarten last school year, is now being extended into first grade. The program was developed by an occupational therapist and uses a multi-sensory approach to handwriting instruction by utilizing visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic modalities, in addition to manipulatives. This complements all learning styles. Students who struggle with handwriting often have limited energy to express thoughts consistently on paper due to the effort expended on forming their letters. The expectation is that composition skills will also improve as handwriting becomes easier and more automatic.
Math Text Investigation Through the skillful expertise of USC teachers and the use of strong, evolving curriculum, an aging textbook has not altered the stellar mathematics performance of our students. In order to assure this continued success, the District must continue to stay ahead of the curve. Substantial changes in the Pennsylvania Standards have occurred throughout the time our current textbook has been in use. Additionally, the recent publication of the United States Department of Education’s Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (March 2008) identifies numerous recommendations for expanding and enhancing excellence in mathematics education. It is for these reasons that the District begins its investigation of the numerous new resources on the market.
Enhanced Comprehension Instruction Explicit comprehension instruction has always been a part of the USC elementary balanced literacy approach. Comprehension of text is the ultimate goal of reading instruction, but it is also the most elusive in terms of concrete instructional practices. A re-examination of current instructional practices at third and fourth grades, along with teacher training, is being completed this year. Continued professional development in the area of comprehension instruction is a vital piece to students’ continued academic achievements in reading and in all academic areas.
Manipulati
ves are pa
rt of Handw
riting Wit
hout Tears.
Increased Use of Nonfiction Text Research indicates that while most of the text encountered by students outside of the classroom is nonfiction, this type of text has historically been underrepresented in instructional settings in elementary schools. Content area textbooks have intentionally been used infrequently in Upper St. Clair at the elementary level. Instead, relevant short texts related to the units of study in science and social studies are used. Increasing the number and quality of these texts, along with teacher training, has been planned for this school year. Nonfiction text is being emphasized in the District’s elementary schools. 50
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Social Studies Goes Online Because our nation and world are constantly changing and evolving, the area of social studies instruction must keep pace. Technology is just the answer to maintaining quality and relevant materials in a world where changes occur daily. Streaming video is a resource that is helpful in this regard. Once quality video clips for units of study are identified from a library of thousands, teachers will be able to download these short portions of video and show only the piece of the video that is pertinent to their current unit of study. Additionally, video conferencing equipment is now available in each elementary building. One of the District’s goals is to provide the opportunity for students to confer with citizens of the countries that our students are studying.
es Brendan Allen us
for streaming video
social studies.
Assessment During the past two school years, all District teachers were trained in effective assessment practices. Although the training has been completed, the refinement of assessment practices continues. This year, the report card in visual arts will be studied and revised. In the area of Spanish, ways to assess oral proficiency through the use of technology will be examined. Science and social studies unit assessments will continue to be developed and refined so that they reflect the way students are taught and are developmentally appropriate for the grades in which they are being administered. An assessment to identify kindergarten and first grade students who may need support in mathematics is another part of enhancing assessment practices. The following elementary curriculum leaders and their committees of elementary teachers are responsible for recommending these changes: Mary Quinn, reading and language arts; Shannon Dominick, mathematics; Rebecca Smith, social studies; Barb Williams, science; Michele Scureman, art; Deanna Baird, foreign language. ■
David J. Stapor, M.D. Edward D. Poon, M.D. Mark L. Lesh, M.D. Jeffrey M. Matheny, M.D. Certified American Board of Orthopedic Surgery
• Sport Related Injuries • Total Joint Replacement Including Minimally Invasive Techniques • Arthroscopic Surgery • Carpal Tunnel • Rotator Cuff Repair • ACL Reconstruction • Fracture Care 1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 106 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 240 Bethel Park, PA 15102 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone: (412) 854-5664 Phone: (412) 469-1660 Office Hours by Appointment Winter 2008
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Middle School Renovations Moving Forward Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools
The Upper St. Clair School District Board of Directors is committed to keeping the community informed
about the status of the middle school modernization project. Through the District’s website, documents and video are posted to inform the public of the project status, the feasibility study, the educational specifications report, document archives, architect updates, and more. A review of the project’s history shows that as planning progressed, the need to renovate the two middle school facilities became evident. The buildings’ infrastructures and mechanical systems need to be replaced. Moreover, the Educational Specifications Labs report showed that the learning environment—largely driven by technology and societal trends—for 21st century teaching and learning is changing. Also emerging from the planning process was the opportunity for “green” building designs, including the option to pursue
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. To consider a green initiative and the LEED option, expert consultation is necessary in the initial stages of the design process. The architects, the construction management, and the commissioning agent are now in place to analyze and make recommendations to the Upper St. Clair School Board of Directors regarding the cost/benefit analysis of a green design and LEED certification. In addition to the website, community meetings are being held. A meeting was held this past October and another is tentatively scheduled for January 2009. The District encourages the community to stay informed about the meeting dates and all matters related to the middle schools project through its website www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. ■
Meet Lee Schaffer Upper St. Clair’s new director of transportation, W. Lee Schaffer, is a man who,
literally, wants to keep things running smoothly. Commenting that USC is known as the best district in the area, Lee said he is pleased to be part of that and plans to continue to move the District forward in the area of transportation. Lee comes to the District from Canon McMillan where he was the director of support services, which includes transportation, W. Lee Schaffer, building and grounds, safeUSC Director of Transportation ty, and security. Lee and his wife of 36 years, Laura, make their home in Eighty Four. The couple has two grown sons: Bill (married to Amy), and Gary (married to Jen), and at the time this went to print, they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their first grandchild. In his spare time, Lee enjoys working on cars. He is looking for a 1965 Plymouth Satellite to work on. Anyone? ■
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Welcome to the District’s new hires for the 2008-09 school year Baker: Kelly Costa, Erik Wiesemann Eisenhower: Christopher Stabile Streams: Linda Schill, Sandra Helbling Boyce: John Boone, Christine McCarron Finnegan Fort Couch: Kathryn Borgfeldt, Erin Giegerich, Peter Hess, Kelsey Monyok, Daniel O’Rourke High School: Lixia Kang, Thomas Nemec, Susan Orsino, Cynthia Osbourne, Amanda Sanderson, Clayton Yonker Bus Garage: Lee Schaffer
Hail
Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service Professional: Rosemary Cross, Todd Flynn, Dennis Foor, Barbara Rinaldi, Terrence Tressler Classified: Carolyn Barthelemy, Barb DeVuono, Elaine Malak, Edna Stevenson, John Walsh Bus Garage: Maureen Cromie, Robert Popovich, Charles Samek
Farewell
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Did You Know? J.R. Hall Slated to Direct Musical This year ’s spri ng mus ical will be dire cted by J.R. Hall . J.R. also directed the fall play The Fron t Page. A 1984 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, J.R. was in-residence at The Western Stage Theatre Company as an actor and playwright from 1989 to 1995. In 1998, he obtained a MFA in playwriting from Carnegie Mellon and began serving as an adju nct faculty member of the CCAC South Campus Drama departme nt, where he teaches communications, theatre, and film. His orig inal produced plays include The Chimes of War, The Principal of the Thing, and The Case of the Missing Case, and musicals Hubba! Hub ba! and Pittsville. J.R. is a member of The Dramatists Guil d of America and presently serves as the high school coordina tor of the Act One Theatre School in Glenshaw. He served as USC ’s fall play director for four years, and directed the USCHS spri ng musicals Les Miserables, Fiddler on the Roof, and Oklahoma. Tryo uts for the spring musical cast are December 20 and 21, with performances scheduled for March 6-8, and 12-14, 2009.
PA Governor’s School students who attended the Congratulations to the following past summer: Anthony Pennsylvania Governor’s School this Ambroso (arts-music), Ben Benack (arts-music), Matt Boyas (agricultural sciences, inte rnat iona l stud ies) , Stev e Gar bin (he alth c a re ) , B r i a n G a u d i o (global entrepreneurship), Mat t Myr on (int ern ation al stud ies, glo bal entrepre neu rshi p), John Sub osit s (sci enc e, and Anne Winters (arts-music). Anne Winters (r
ight) with other
High Q The USC High Q team recently plac ed third of 81 tea across Western Penn ms sylvania in the KDKA “Hometown High Q” semifinal competit ion. Westfield Insu rance presented a for $5000 to USC’s check team of Tyler Lehm an , Shawn Summers, John Subosits. Tyler and and Shawn gradua ted this past June, John, a high school but senior this year, wi ll serve as the 2008 team captain. -09
Shining Stars
d pre sen t we re US C stu de nts pa st an mbers in the 2008 showcased as cast me urgh Civic Light summer season of Pittsb Benedum Theatre. Opera (CLO) at the th grader at Boyce, Nathan Steinhauer, a six is an d ser ve d as po rtr ay ed Pe ter De nn g role of Patrick din lea understudy to the h CLO production Dennis in the Pittsburg Ben Nadler, who of Mame this past July. entered Boyce this Nathan Steinhauer past fall, made his CLO summer debut sical Annie Get Your as Little Jake in the mu Pittsburgh CLO Gun. Also featured at the r was USC alumna throughout this summe mber of the CLO Stephanie Maloney, a me d seen as Cousin ensemble, dancer, an is enrolled at the ie Fan in Mame. Stephan and began her n iga University of Mich junior year this fall. r
Ben Nadle
music students
The Write Stuff Congratulations to the following students who, out of hundreds of entries, were honored by the Ralph Munn Creative Writing Contest sponsored by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. All students worked with Eng lish/Creative Writing teacher, Emily Robbibaro. Jake Rosati plac ed second for “Blue” (non-fiction essay), Faith Beck placed thir d (fictional short story), and Peter Rosati was a finalist for “Wo oden” (poetry). Other entries of merit selected for publication in the annual contest chapbook were Sarah Walters-Slezak (poetry), Peter Rosati for “The Lullaby of the Restless” (poetry), and Jake Rosati for “Walking Stick” (poetry). Congratulations also to two stud ents who competed in the National Garden Club Poetry Con test while attending Fort Couch Middle School. Taylor Manalo, now a USCHS freshman, placed first, and Madison Chafin, now in eighth grade, placed third.
All That Jazz Foundahe Vail Jazz
T lected Ben tion, Inc. se mission to Benack for ad Workshop, the Vail Jazz eld in Vail, which was h ugust 23 Colorado, A mber 1. te through Sep n at io n al B as ed o n a Ben Benack d in te rau d it io n an s u io restig three high views, this p as offered to States. w t en tm in appo S band nited ent of USCH ts from the U d u en st d a u st is l l, o o o ho sch at the high sc Ben, a senior . h ic re nk Eisen director Fra
Winter 2008
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Pawprints—it’s Elementary! 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. 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.
Baker Elementary
At Baker, one resource teacher and a teacher from each of the four grade levels will house the five boards. These teacher representatives collaborated as a team and then shared their knowledge with their fellow grade level teachers. This endeavor was possible due to funds from Baker PTA, School Pictures, Box Tops, Target, and Baker School Budget monies. (For more information on Promethean Boards, refer to “Streams Elementary—Looking Forward with Technology” article below.)
Eisenhower Elementary The students of Eisenhower got together over the summer for the school’s fourth annual “Movie Night at Ike,” featuring the “Bee Movie.” Taking place on a clear evening in July at Eisenhower’s baseball field after sunset, the stars added to the great atmosphere shared among friends. This fall, Eisenhower geared up for its biggest fundraiser of the year—The Eisenhowler. The event was well attended and supported by many Eisenhower students, alumni, and families.
The area in front of Baker Elementary, currently the school’s butterfly garden, recently expanded to include and invite some fine feathered friends. Volunteers helped with the expansion by planting bird friendly bushes, flowers, and plants. Several feeders Streams Elementary—Looking Forward and nesting boxes, as well as a large purple martin condominium, with Technology will be situated in front of the two kindergarten class windows so The mission statement of the National PTA includes the folthat the birds’ activities can be seen by the students. Baker staff lowing two phrases, “providing the best tools for parents to help is in the process of collecting learning material and compiling it their children be successful students” and “encourage parent and into age-appropriate resource kits that will add valuable informa- public involvement in the public schools of this nation.” tion about the species of birds that the kids are watching. Books, Streams PTA, under the leadership of its president, Bebe binoculars, sound identifiers, and logging notebooks will enable Mielcusny, and the president-elect, Lisa Burke, took this mission students to find a bird, watch it, then refer to the materials and to heart and looked for new technology that would benefit the name it as well as hear its voice and read about its habits. students and teachers of Streams Elementary. They contacted Ray A birdbath, with a continuously moving water fountain, will Berrott, Upper St. Clair School District’s Director of Technology, be added. This not only attracts the birds, but will also keep who informed the PTA of a new technology known as “Promethean mosquitoes away! Baker staff will be posting a bulletin board to Boards” being used at the high school in some core curriculum keep current and relevant information in view of our young or- classes under the Classrooms of the Future initiative. The District, nithologists. The funding through grant funding, for this project comes from purchased these boards the money raised from for the high school’s use. Baker’s annual fundraiser, Equipped with knowlthe Baker Caper. edge, the PTA contacted This past summer, the Community FoundaBaker purchased and intion of Upper St. Clair and stalled five Promethean the Upper St. Clair Alumni Boards for the start of the Foundation with grant 2008-09 school year. Proproposals to provide 21st methean Board technology century white board techenables teachers to create, nology for elementary customize, and integrate school classrooms. After text, images, assessments, the successful awarding of and video/audio content, these two grants, coupled to more easily capture with a significant contristudents’ attention and bution of Streams PTA accommodate different funds ($10,000), Streams learning styles. s t a rt e d t h e 2 0 0 8 - 0 9 Standing in front of a Promethean Board are, left to right, Morgan Olsen, Melissa Mancosh, Sherri Garvey, Betsy Loomis, Carrie Dunbar, Kathleen Mulhern, Carol Logan, Jennifer Williams, and Charity Schmiedl with Streams student Logan Mielcusny 54
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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school year outfitting six classrooms with Promethean Boards. Future plans anticipate expanding this initiative to additional classrooms. This project was appealing to the Community Foundation because of its own heightened commitment to technology—one of its four focus areas. The foundation’s technology statement reads: “To keep abreast of and exploit advancing technologies to the benefit of the community, including information sharing and communication.” Foundation members Pierette VanRyzin and Celeste Acinapura believed that the Streams project was a perfect fit for the foundation to lend a helping hand and awarded a $5000 grant. The Upper St. Clair Alumni Foundation also thought the project was a great match and awarded Streams a generous donation of $600. The question: What will this technology add to the classroom? Promethean Interactive Whiteboards are effective in helping to expand learning capabilities, because the technology enables teachers to engage students with interactivity by presenting concepts in a more tangible format. Objects, when pressed on the board, can link to webcasts, maps, and virtual tours that can show students practical, real-life examples in action. The handheld Personal Response Units will immediately enable the teacher to assess if the students are grasping concepts. The teachers can then make necessary modifications to the instruction. Expected outcomes from use of the boards are numerous. Lessons designed for the interactive whiteboards will correlate with the Pennsylvania Standards in reading, math, science, and technology. Students can be electronically transported to different parts of the country and the world for lesson plans, thus bringing them one step closer to a global society. Also, teachers will be able to promptly identify areas of concern for individual students and offer immediate support. Increased teacher and student proficiency with the 21st century technological devices and software will help students to meet the new Educational Technology Standards for Students. Looking forward, the PTA and the District are continuing to actively pursue grant opportunities and welcome corporate sponsorships, community donations, and fundraising opportunities. This year’s Streams’ Stravaganza fundraiser, held in October, targeted this project hoping to raise enough funds to buy additional Promethean Boards. Teachers from both Streams and Baker Schools participated in a training session in August in order to learn more about the potential of this technology for all learners. This group of teachers will continue to learn and collaborate, sharing their discoveries with all staff members. Streams PTA looks forward to providing the students and teachers with everything possible to help all members of our school community attain goals never before imagined. ■
SD
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Questions about PTA or PTSO? Call Lisa Clark (PTA) 412-851-1667 or Ellen Argento (PTSO) 412-831-1903. Winter 2008
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Marching Band Gets New Look
“The Pride of Upper St. Clair” Marching Band was seen in new uni-
forms this year. The new look for the band previewed at the annual Band Parents’ Salute Night on August 21, with the official debut at the first varsity football game on August 29. Especially light-weight, stain-resistant, durable, colorful, stylish, and offering flexible-sizes were among the reasons cited for purchasing these uniforms from the F.J. Miller Company. Past band coats and pants for the instrumentalists were very heavy, extremely warm, and required dry-cleaning only, along with some hemming of the sleeves and cuffs. The new uniforms are washable, use brighter colors, are constructed in light-weight polyester material (less sweating during the warmer months of May through October), and have snaps to adjust lengths for a better fit. Durability is important. School districts normally purchase new marching band uniforms every ten years. The Panthers’ last uniforms were ordered in 1999. With a 2008-09 membership of 137, the award-winning USCHS marching band regularly represents the Upper St. Clair School District in and out of the community by performing in no fewer than 22 shows, parades, festivals, and other ceremonies every year. The band plays in all types of weather and on all kinds of field and street conditions. According to USCHS band director Don Pickell, “The band and I could not be happier with our new uniforms. We were
thrilled that the school board voted to allow us to purchase new uniforms. The uniforms are clean looking, well made, and really bring the look of the band into the 21st century.” The other newcomer to the band is the newly refurbished equipment bus, clearly visible from Route 19 and parked in the main lot of the high
Sporting the new uniform is band member Michael Toth.
Members of the marching band just before game time
school. Students, parents, and staff send a “bravo” and “thanks” to the school board and Band Parents Association for their support in the purchase, outfitting, and maintenance of what is truly the “heart and soul” of the band—carrying and storing all of the percussion and larger instruments,
auxiliary unit flags and pom-poms, the podium, and other equipment for all of the away events. ■
Teaching Teens to Make Good Choices With holiday festivities rapidly approaching, now is a good time to talk to your teen about making responsible choices when they are out with friends. The Upper St. Clair Youth Steering Committee (YSC) offers the following list of suggestions from the Partnership Against Underage Substance Abuse (PAUSA) to help your family enjoy a safe holiday season. • Set clear expectations about drinking and drug use. • Meet and get to know your teen’s friends. • Have the names and phone numbers of your teen’s friends.
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• Know who your teen is hanging out with. • Know where they are going and have a land line phone number to reach them. • Tell your teen to call if his or her plans change. • Be available to pick them up if they get into an uncomfortable situation. For more information, contact PAUSA at 412-561-5405 or at info@outreachteen.org, or send mail to USC YSC at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. ■
SD
USC Teen Athletes Step Up to the Plate Kim Frenette “If you want something done right, let the kids do it.”
Not how the saying usually goes, but it should if we are talking about the kids running Athletes Taking Action. Started early in 2007 by a small group of USC high school students, with the adult sponsorship of parent Amy Podobnik and USCHS guidance counselor Jerry Malarkey, the mentoring program has quickly grown to involve over 400 students. Upper classmen who want to be involved receive a full day’s training on personal responsibility, what it means to make good choices, and communication skills. They are then paired with freshmen athletes in their same sport. The goal of the program is to support young athletes in making good life choices and to help them avoid choices they might later regret. It works because it recognizes that a) the pressures at high school can be really tough, and b) kids would rather take advice from other kids than from adults. The affirmative peer pressure created is impressive. Freshmen have positive upper classmen examples to look up to, let alone a friendly face during those first terrifying weeks in the hallways. Mentors get, as Catherine Batz, one of the first in the program puts it, “a reason to make good choices. I know this program has made me a better person because I’m held accountable for my actions—you don’t want to let a mentee down,” explains Batz, a volleyball player, now graduated from USC and attending Saint Mary’s College. Parents may, or may not, be surprised to hear that teens value the advice of
Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS
Let my experience work for you. Leader training included ATA members, front row, left to right: Aly Walker, Kate Haggerty, Alex Coury, Rocky Cersosimo, Jeremy Bourgeois, Catherine Batz, Roberto Capriotti, and adult sponsor Jerry Malarkey; back row: Maddie Massaro, Sarah Howie, Clay Ilkin, Brian Lattanzi, adult sponsor Amy Podobnik, Adam Chrissis, Dan Colussey, Grant Serdy, and adult sponsor Jeff Podobnik
peers more than the experience of parents. “Adults tell you stuff all the time,” says Elizabeth Kline, a senior track athlete and soccer player. “Coming from a kid it’s different.” Athletes Taking Action has harnessed this reality for the good. “From the start we knew that for it to work the kids had to own it,” acknowledge adult sponsors Amy and Jerry. They offer guidance and assurance, but for the most part, the student leaders truly run the show, from training new mentors, to recruiting incoming freshmen, to fundraising. Even so, the adults are impressed with how far Athletes Taking Action has come and give full credit to the students involved. “We step away and they take off and go.” ■
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summer es enjoy the hman athlet Incoming fres t and Greet cook out. Mee Winter 2008
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A Day In The District
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Fight Winter Study Blues— Form Good Study Habits
SD Charming Abodes
Rachel Riley, USC Resident, Owner, The Tutor Team, LLC The first quarter of school is over.
The novelty of going back to school has worn off. It doesn’t help that the winter weather tends to draw us more towards hibernation instead of getting schoolwork done. However, we can fight the winter study blues by using this time to form solid study habits early on. For most children, developing good study habits is the key to academic success. The key to having good study habits is learning to work methodically. No two people study the same way, and there is little doubt that what works for one person may not work for another. However, the following are some general techniques that seem to produce good results. Schedule study time. Set a regular time to do homework. As an example, do homework after dinner every night. This way, there are no surprises. Kids know when to expect to do their work. Setting a regular study time will help fight procrastination by making it a household rule that homework gets done first—before TV time, social phone calls, texting, or playtime. Time is the most valuable resource a student has. Develop a schedule that allocates your available time in the most productive manner. If other commitments require you to be flexible, plan things a week at a time and keep up with the schedule. Write assignments down. Teach children how to use an academic planner or, to keep things simple, use a notebook to keep track of assignments. You can even make a chart for the refrigerator door. Make a list of the assignments that need to be completed and prioritize the list. The important thing is that your children learn how to organize their tasks and stick to the plan to accomplish them. Set-up a consistent work space. Give your child a place of his or her own to do homework. Make sure that there is adequate space, that it is comfortable, and that there is good lighting. Have everything needed for study handy beforehand. Don’t waste valuable time looking for books, notes, or other information. Have the children put the items that they need where they can be reached easily. Control the environment. The study space should be as quiet and comfortable as possible. Avoid studying in noisy places such as the TV room or a play area. Make sure there are no distractions. Turn off the
television, and forbid telephone calls or visitors during homework time. Soft, background music can be helpful, but favorite pop songs can be distracting. To better track what works well for your child, listen to your child’s requests and observe them during homework time. Find a balance between what they want and what they need in a study environment. Make it a joint effort. Be accessible to answer questions. This way, you can also monitor progress. Check your child’s work with him after the homework assignment is completed. This allows you to identify in what areas your child needs help and also gives you a chance to commend him for getting the work done. Get organized for the next school day. Once all the work is completed, have your children place their assignments in the correct folders to prepare them to be turned in. No more excuses about misplaced assignments or the dog eating their homework. Sign all necessary assignments, forms, or permission slips as required by their teachers. Then, have them pack their school bags to get ready for the next day to eliminate unnecessary stress in the morning while sending them off to school. The study tips presented allow you to become involved in your child’s school life. It shows your children that you are interested in what they are studying without actually doing the work for them. It gives you an avenue to get in touch with their lives and to see the things that are making them happy, crazy, or sad. It provides you with the opportunity to help them understand the importance of doing some things that they may not necessarily like to do and to benefit from doing the things that they love to do. Showing your interest in their work is the key to forming the good study and homework habits that will serve your children now and throughout their academic careers. On that note, one last tip—work smart, not hard! ■
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Upper St. Clair School District Calendar (Mid-November 2008—February 2009) All events are subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check the calendar on the School District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Legend: BA – Baker Elementary • BO – Boyce Middle • CO – Central Office • EI – Eisenhower Elementary • FC – Fort Couch Middle • HS – High School • ST – Streams Elementary
November 2008 11-13 12
13
15
16 17 18
18-19 19 20
21 24 25 27-28 29
HS–Pops Rehearsal (Theatre) HS–Pops Rehearsal (Theatre) BO–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) HS–Pops Concert–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) EI–PTA Meeting–7 p.m. ST–Kindergarten Special Night–7 p.m. (Gym and Nutrition Center) Report Cards Distributed–First Report HS–Pittsburgh Symphony Chamber Orchestra–8 p.m. (Theatre) EI–4th Grade Bowling HS–SHJO Concert–3 p.m. HS–PMEA High School Chorus Auditions FC–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (MPR) EI–1st Grade Breakfast FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) HS–Band Rehearsal (Theatre) HS–PTSO Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Band Concert–7 p.m. (Theatre) HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Junior Student Meeting–Mods 5-6 (Theatre) HS–Junior Parent Meeting–7-9 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Genetics Conference–8:20 a.m.-2:20 p.m. BO–Open Mike–9:30 a.m. (LGI) ST–Book Fair (LGI) ST–Ice Cream Social–7-9 p.m. (LGI and Nutrition Center) BO–Calcu-Solve (Duquesne University) ST–Book Fair (LGI) HS–Financial Aid Meeting–7 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Jazz Rehearsal Concert–7 p.m. (LGI) ST–1st Grade Open Mike–9:30 a.m. No School–Thanksgiving Recess HS–Marching Band/Celebrate the Season Parade–7 a.m.
December 2008 1 2 3
3-4 3-5 4 4-5 5
5-6 7 8
9 10
11 12 12-13
FC–Reach Out Begins HS–Town Hall South–10 a.m. (Theatre) HS–Deans’ Breakfast–7:40 a.m. (LGI) BA–Enchanted Shop Set-Up CO–PTA Council Meeting/Luncheon–9:30 a.m. HS–Natural Helpers Retreat EI–Holiday Mart HS–Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Nutcracker–7 p.m. (Theatre) BA–Enchanted Shop ST–Holiday Shop (LGI) HS–Natural Helpers Retreat FC–Caught You Being Good Breakfast–8:20 a.m. (Library) EI–PTA Executive Board–9:45 a.m. HS–Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Nutcracker–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Nutcracker–2 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Holiday Project Begins HS–Choral Booster Meeting–7 p.m. (Choir Room) FC–Caught You Being Good Begins HS–River City Brass Band–8 p.m. (Theatre) BO–Band/Orchestra/Choir Rehearsal–1-4 p.m. (HS Theatre) CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) BO–Band/Orchestra/Choir Rehearsal–7 p.m. (HS Theatre) EI–2nd Grade Social HS–Madrigal Dinner Set-Up (Nutrition Center) BO–Band/Orchestra/Choir Concert (Boyce) HS–Pittsburgh Ballet Academy (Evenings)
13 14 15-16 16
17
18
19 20 20-21 22 23
24-31
HS–Madrigal Dinner–5:30 p.m. (Nutrition Center) EI–3rd Grade Bowling HS–Sweet Adelines–8 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Choral Rehearsal (Theatre) HS–Choral Concert–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) FC–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (MPR) FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) HS–PTSO Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Band/Orchestra Rehearsal (Theatre) FC–Reach Out Ends HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Band/Orchestra Rehearsal (Theatre) HS–Band/Orchestra Concert–7 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Holiday Project Ends HS–Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra–7:30 p.m. (Theatre) HS–Musical Casting FC–Caught You Being Good Ends HS–Senior Breakfast FC–Holiday Assembly–2 p.m. FC–In School Social–3 p.m. BA/EI/ST–Winter Parties–1:30 p.m. No School–Winter Recess
20-23 21 21-29 22 23 23-24 25 26 27-28 28 28-31 29 30 31
February 2009 2 3
4 4-7 5
6
January 2009 1-4 2 5 6 7
7-8 8 9 10 12 13 13-15 14
15 16 15-17 19 20
20-21
No School–Winter Recess EI–PTA Executive Board–9:45 a.m. HS–Choral Booster Meeting–7 p.m. (Choir Room) ST–PTA Executive Board–9:30 a.m. (LGI) HS–Deans’ Breakfast–7:40 a.m. (LGI) HS–Theatre Angels–7-9 p.m. (Nutrition Center/Theatre/ Band Room/Choral Room) HS–PTA Council–9:30 a.m. BA/EI/ST–Elementary Chorus Rehearsal (HS Theatre) BA/EI/ST–Elementary Chorus Concert–7:30 p.m. (HS Theatre) HS–PMEA Honors Jazz at USC EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–PMEA Honors Jazz at USC BO–PTA Executive Meeting–1 p.m. BA–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) EI–PTA Book Swap HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–Snow Make-Up Day for Any Concert (Theatre) BO–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) FC–Chorus Rehearsal–4-6 p.m. (HS Theatre) FC–PTA Social–7-9 p.m. HS–PMEA District SHS Chorus No School–Teacher In-Service FC–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (MPR) EI–3rd Grade Social–7-8:30 p.m. FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) FC–Chorus Rehearsal–4-6 p.m. (HS Theatre)
7 9 9-20 10 11 12 13
16 17
18 19
19-21 20 23 26
27
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HS–Finals BO–Deer Valley Parent Informational Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) FC–Book Fair FC–Chorus Concert–9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. (HS Theatre) ST–PTA Faculty Appreciation Lunch (LGI) HS–PMEA District JHS Orchestra HS–Tamburitzans–3 p.m. (Theatre) No School–Teacher In-Service ST–PTA Ice Skating Party FC–Band/Orchestra Rehearsal–1-4 p.m. (HS Theatre) FC–Band/Orchestra Concert–7:30 p.m. (HS Theatre) HS–PMEA District SHS Band HS–Jazz Invitational and Rehearsal–7 p.m. (Theatre) ST–Silent Auction–5-9 p.m. BA–Family Read-In EI–Reading Night with Dad–7-9 p.m. HS–Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra–7:30 p.m. (Theatre)
HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. HS –Town Hall South–10 a.m. (Theatre) FC–IB Program MYP 8th to 9th Grade Parent Meeting–7 p.m. (LGI) ST–PTA Executive Board–9:30 a.m. HS–Deans’ Breakfast–7:40 a.m. (LGI) FC–PTA Council–9:30 a.m. HS–PMEA District SHS Orchestra HS–National College Fair (David L. Lawrence Convention Center) HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. ST–4th Grade Special Night (Gym and Nutrition Center) HS–Sadies Set-Up EI–PTA Executive Board–9:45 a.m. HS–Sadies Dance HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. BO–PTA Executive Board–1 p.m. HS/FC/BO–Grades 11, 8, and 5 PSSA Writing BA–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. ST–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) BO–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. (LGI) CO–Youth Steering Committee–7:30 p.m. (Board Room) HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. FC–Valentine’s Dance–7-9 p.m. BA–Valentine’s Day Exchange EI–PTA Meeting–9:30 a.m. ST–Bingo–5-9 p.m. (HS Nutrition Center) No School–Teacher In-Service HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. FC–PTA Meeting (MPR)–9:30 a.m. EI–2nd Grade Breakfast FC–Partners In Education Meeting–7-9 p.m. (LGI) HS–PTSO Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. FC–8th Grade Meeting–7-9 p.m. (HS Theatre) BO–Open Mike (LGI)–9:30 a.m. ST–3rd Grade Open Mike–9:30 a.m. ST–1st Grade Special Night (Gym and Nutrition Center)–7 p.m. HS–PMEA Region Chorus BA–Baker Caper EI–Family Bingo Night–6:30-8:30 p.m. HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. HS–PAC Meeting–9:30 a.m. HS–SAT Prep Class–7-9 p.m. EI–1st Grade Social–7-8:30 p.m. ST–Snuggle and Read–7 p.m. (whole school) BA–Clothing Sale
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, 2009, are eligible to register. School Area Date Baker...............................................................................................................Tuesday, March 3 Eisenhower ............................................................................................... Wednesday, March 4 Streams ........................................................................................................ Thursday, March 5 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 17, 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.
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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 the start of the 2008-09 school year, all students entering school for the first time at kindergarten must have the following immunizations completed prior to entering any public, private, or parochial school: • 4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 3 doses of polio • 1 dose of rubella
• • • •
2 doses of measles 2 doses of mumps 3 doses of hepatitis B 2 doses of varicella or written statement from physician/designee indicating month and year of disease or serologic proof of immunity
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 23, 2009. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration. Winter 2008
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Plan Today For Tomorrow Jill Gordon, Director of Marketing, Friendship Village of South Hills Plan ahead. How many times have we heard that phrase? Enough, perhaps, to shake our heads and say, “Oh, some day.” But planning ahead for the lifestyle we want when we retire—how could we possibly put that off? That “some day” will actually come, and both retirees and their children are seeing the wisdom in laying out a plan for the retirement years. Below are some questions to ask yourself and to talk over with your family as you begin to consider your lifestyle when you are 70+ years old. • What do I imagine myself doing at age 70 and beyond? How would an average day look to me? • What sort of plan do I have in place for securing my health care? • How much do I want to depend on family and friends? How important is independence to me? • Would I make a change in order to be free of the responsibility and costs of being a homeowner? As you answer these questions and continue to talk with family and friends, spend time exploring the benefits of a life care plan. Just what is life care? In life care retirement communities, a life care plan allows you to pre-plan for all levels of care, so that the decisions about your care are made ahead of time. You make the decisions about any future assistance or nursing care, and once in place, you are free from the worry of what might happen in the future. You know what assistance or nursing care will be provided, what it will cost, and where you will go. And no one will be making those decisions but you. When you choose life care in a retirement community, the stresses of everyday living are gone—no longer are you bothered with home maintenance, utility bills, real estate taxes, or even menu planning. You are freed up to enjoy an active lifestyle—life on your terms—all the while knowing your health care is in place for any future needs. And that is the pay off to having a plan! ■ See ad on this page. 62
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A RICH LIFE BEGINS WITH
A HEALTHY PLAN.
member SIPC
© 2008 Hefren-Tillotson, Inc.
First shoes. Piano lessons. Top university. June wedding. Two-story Tudor. Thriving career. Charity work. Grandchildren. Plan your financial future the way you plan your life.
In the South Hills, contact one of our Financial Advisors at 412.833.5777. Summerfield Commons • 2551 Washington Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15241 • hefren.com
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Winter 2008
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Take Yourself & Your Business To The Next Level rs e n w O es v i t u Exec onals si s e f o Pr • Confidential one-on-one sessions, workshops, strategic retreats and special projects.
• Concentrate your focus, energy and efforts on high-priority, high-value actions. • Learn to work smarter, not harder. The Growth Coach. . . helping you get more out of business and life.
Chuck Chrissis
(412) 527-8534
2004 GC Franchising Systems, Inc. Each office is independently owned and operated.
www.PittsburghBusinessCoaches.com
Business Owners—Gain Greater Personal Time, Freedom, and Fortune Chuck Chrissis, Owner, The After interacting with business owners over the years, I have learned with absolute clarity that your goal as a business owner should be to design a company that is distinct from you and, quite candidly, works in your absence. Your enterprise should function without you, not because of you. While you should be the brains behind the enterprise, you should not be like Hercules trying to hold up the entire weight of the company. You’ll be crushed! How do I do this you might ask? You must become a strategic business owner. Specifically, you must learn to adopt a CEO mindset; systematize and document your business; lead more and work less; create a simple business plan; utilize the leverage of marketing; effectively manage your greatest asset, your people; and learn to let go. In short, you must transform the way you see yourself and your business. To maintain freedom, independence, 64
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Growth Coach® and fulfillment, as your business grows so also must your leadership effectiveness and operating systems. You must become more purposeful and proactive. Specifically, consider these steps to gain more personal time, freedom, and fortune. • Transition to a new way of thinking and behaving. Re-program your mindset and your habits. Stop acting like an employee and start thinking like a CEO. Be strategic, not tactical; work less, lead more! • Systematize your company by creating, documenting, and continually improving your key processes, procedures, and policies. Trust the business system and personnel you put in place. Define and document the work to be done. Train others. Delegate the work. • Increase your leadership capabilities. Excel at leadership, not doer-ship. Your business needs a clear vision and strong leader to hold others accountable. Help build and direct your team. Winter 2008
• Develop clarity of direction for your business and employees by creating a simple business plan and an effective implementation process. • Effectively manage your people. They are your greatest asset. • Instead of incremental growth, engage the leverage of marketing to achieve substantial, profitable growth. • Learn to let go, delegate, and truly enjoy business ownership, your relationships, and your life. By working less in your business, you gain more time to work on your business. Are your current paths and strategies working? If not, I invite you to acknowledge the problems in your business, take responsibility for them, and dare to try new approaches. ■ USC resident Chuck Chrissis is a certified strategic business coach and owner of The Growth Coach®. See ad on this page.
Teaching Kids of All Ages How to Save, Spend, and Budget Wisely It’s never too early to give your children basic lessons in money management that will benefit them throughout life. Managing money is a skill that can occasionally be overlooked by parents while kids are growing up. Children as young as five years old should begin learning the fundamentals of money.
The Sooner, the Better
of baby boomers say they talk with their families about money and finances on a regular basis. A financial advisor can help jumpstart the financial conversation and help determine your financial needs based on your own goals and family situation. Consult your financial advisor for more information about family financial planning including saving, budgeting, college saving, retirement planning, and more. ■
Give young kids small doses of information by showing them what money looks like, where it comes from, and how it is earned. Explain to them the difference between needs and wants, and eventually a piggy bank can be a good hands-on tool to learn how to save. Help your child think of a small item they can save for, and over time show them how they are working toward it.
Allowance Helps Teach Responsibility Paying your child an allowance is seen often as the most effective tool to teach kids about money. Let your children learn by doing, giving them the power to spend their own money. With that power comes responsibility to prioritize and monitor their spending. Once they reach the age of nine or ten, introduce your child to the concept of banks and down the road, set them up with a savings and eventually a checking account. Instill the practice of saving by showing your children how compounding interest in a savings account can work to their advantage. Teenagers will most likely have the urge to spend money like it’s going out of style; giving them a budget to adhere to can promote frugality. For instance, give them a clothing budget so they learn they can make their buck go further by not buying designer jeans. A part-time job may help them work toward the things they want to buy. Also, give them an overview of taxes by going over their paycheck with them and explaining deductions.
What They Don’t Teach You in School Though some students may learn basic personal finance in school, many are clueless on money matters they will face after graduation. Upon starting college, many students will be faced with credit card offers, seemingly free money to them. Make sure your kids are educated about credit card interest rates, which may equal high debt and a bad credit score. Young adults may also be faced with debt from student loans and should set up a reasonable payment plan post-graduation. Speak to them about what a 401(K) plan is and how effective investment vehicles can be. Finally, don’t forget to reinforce the need for insurance including health, automobile, home, or renters. Many young adults today are going without insurance, which can be risky as bills for car repair or for emergency room visits can be in the thousands of dollars without coverage. Conversations about money across generations are not happening as often as they should. According to the recent Ameriprise Financial Money Across Generations® study, only four in ten (39%)
This column was prepared by Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC, which offers financial planning services and investments. This information should not be relied on without the advice of your tax, legal, and/or financial advisors. See ad on this page.
A personal, more meaningful approach to financial planning John D. Link, CFP®, MS CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM practitioner Whether you’re starting a small business, obtaining life insurance, or sending your kids to college, I can help you plan to reach your financial goals through personal, customized financial planning.
Call (412) 854-4001 today. John D. Link, CFP®, MS Financial Advisor 2555 Washington Road, Suite 610-B Pittsburgh, PA 15241 (412) 854-4001 john.d.link@ampf.com www.ameripriseadvisors.com/john.d.link
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Winter 2008
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Family Hospice and Palliative Care—Coping with Holiday Sadness Marilyn Cartwright, LSW, QCSW, Bereavement Specialist, Family Hospice and Palliative Care Rather than feeling joyful,
November is National Hospice month. Family Hospice and Palliative Care displays the Memorial Tree of Love at the Galleria as well as other locations. Memorial tags can be placed on the tree for a minimal donation. 66
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Eleanor found herself feeling uneasy about the upcoming holiday season. This year, the holiday lights, decorations, and cheery greetings made her feel sad. This was the first holiday season Eleanor would be without her husband, Michael, who died of cancer during this past year. It is a sad fact that death creates eight million new grievers each year in the United States. For those who have experienced a loss, the traditional feelings of warmth and cheer surrounding the holidays may be replaced by feelings of sadness and uncertainty. Unfortunately, what can be a festive time of year for many can be a difficult season for the bereaved. With planning and forethought it is possible to make the holidays less lonely and difficult for those who are coping with the loss of a loved one. The following suggestions may be helpful. • Realize this holiday is different, unlike the holidays of the past. • Plan for the holidays. Decide what would be best for you and let friends and family know. • Acknowledge the absence of your loved one. Have a toast in his or her honor. Visit the cemetery. Don’t be afraid to cry, or to smile. • Contemplate creating a ritual that remembers and represents memories and feelings for your loved one, including lighting a candle, assembling a scrapbook, planting a tree, or donating a book or gift to a library, nursing home, or charity in your loved one’s name. • Do things because you want to do them, not because your loved one would have wanted it that way. • Engage in spiritual activities that are comforting to you. • Initiate activity yourself. Plan your own holiday; do not wait for others.
Winter 2008
• Help others. The holidays are a great time to volunteer. • Take time to identify and take care of your needs. Get adequate rest and exercise. Be aware of the increased accessibility to sugar, caffeine, and alcohol during the holiday season and guard against overuse of these substances. • Catalog shop if shopping in the stores is too difficult. Rather than gifts this year, make a donation in your loved one’s honor. • Consider joining a bereavement support or educational group. It may be a safe haven for you. • Be gentle with yourself. Realize that you will feel sad at times. ■
For over 28 years, Family Hospice and Palliative Care has been providing year-round support groups and educational programs for those living with grief. For more information about support groups at Family Hospice and Palliative Care’s Center for Compassionate Care in Mt. Lebanon and in other areas, call the general phone number at 412-572-8800 or Marylin Cartwright at 412-572-8829.
The 40-70 Rule Local Company Launches Campaign to Get Seniors and Their Families Talking Your dad’s neighbor just called to tell you that your 79-year-old father sideswiped his parked vehicle and nearly hit a child standing nearby. Was it an isolated slip-up or the sign that it’s time for your dad to think about handing over his car keys? More importantly, how do you begin the discussion about such a potentially volatile subject? Sensitive issues like this “The 40-70 Rule means that prompted Home Instead if you are 40, or your parents Senior Care, a company serving the South Hills comare 70, it’s time to start the munities, to launch a public conversation about some of education campaign called these difficult topics” the “40-70 Rule.” This campaign will help adult children begin to address difficult issues with their parents such as driving, finances, independence, and even romance. “The 40-70 Rule means that if you are 40, or your parents are 70, it’s time to start the conversation about some of these difficult topics,” said Lucy Seger, owner of the South Hills Home Instead Senior Care office. The campaign is based on research conducted in the U.S. and Canada by Home Instead Senior Care, which revealed that nearly one-third of adults in the U.S. have a major communication obstacle with their parents that stems from continuation of the parent-child role. In other words, it can be difficult to get the conversation going because the child is still seen as a child rather than an adult with their aging loved one. “Because of this obstacle, adult children may wait until an emergency or crisis happens before talking to parents,” said Seger. “Our goal with the 40-70 Rule campaign is to provide practical ways for adult children to talk to their parents now. We’ve seen lack of communication lead to misuse of medications, selfneglect, and accidents.” At the center of the 40-70 Rule campaign is a guide of conversation starters for sensitive senior-care subjects, which is available free from the local Home Instead Senior Care office. The guide was compiled with the assistance of Jake Harwood, Ph.D., national author and communication professor from the University of Arizona who is the former director of that school’s graduate program in gerontology. “Starting conversations early is particularly important for endof-life issues such as power of attorney and wills,” said Harwood, author of Understanding Communication and Aging, (2007, Sage Publications). “Other topics may need to be addressed as well,” he said. “Certain conversations should be broached with care,” Harwood added. “It’s crucial to begin these conversations assuming ‘if’ rather than ‘when.’ Many older adults continue to drive safely as they age. Therefore, personal circumstances should determine how much discussion needs to occur,” he said. In general, the Home Instead Senior Care survey found that
Baby Boomers have the most difficulty talking with their parents about independence issues, such as continuing to live in their own home, and that their parent’s desire to remain independent makes it challenging to address such sensitive issues as health and money. The fact that many of these families are still in a “parentchild” rather than a “peer-to-peer” role makes the conversations even more difficult. “It takes two to tango,” Harwood explains. “If an adult child always turns first to the parent in times of trouble, regularly needs money from the parent, or calls the parent every time there’s a crisis in the child’s life, then they can expect the parent to continue acting out the parenting role. On the other hand, if the child becomes truly independent and restricts these behaviors, then the parent may be more likely to relinquish the parent role,” he said. Physical space and place also influence communication, Harwood said. “It might be helpful for the children to mix things up a little if parental behaviors are a problem. This might be achieved by taking a more active role in cooking dinner or taking the parent out to the mall to buy them a gift just to change the dynamic and the setting in a positive way,” he said. “The bottom line is to keep talking, because the parent-child conversation can be so important in helping seniors adapt to changing life circumstances,” said Home Instead Senior Care’s Seger. Good communication also is vital to helping families know when it’s time to seek additional resources. “Oftentimes, both adult children and their loved ones can benefit from outside help, such as a professional caregiver,” said Seger. “But the only way that will happen is if they can talk about it first.” ■ For a free guide on the 40-70 Rule conversation starters, call 412-276-2400 or visit www.4070talk.com to download the guide or do an online assessment. For more information about Home Instead Senior Care services, call 412-276-2400 or visit www.homeinstead.com/swpittsburgh. Winter 2008
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Around the Township New STM Center Welcomes Celebrations, Large and Small Pat Quolke
News from Around the Township
When Andrea Taylor began making her wedding plans, she was just like any other bride. She set out to find
the perfect place for her reception and considered all the usual choices like local hotels and restaurants. She wanted a beautiful facility that was convenient and had the ambiance to create an elegant setting for the couple’s special day. This McMurray resident and her fiancé, Vincent Chiodo, found everything they wanted, and more, at the newest event facility in the South Hills—the St. Thomas More Family Life and Education Center. “The STM Center is absolutely beautiful,” Andrea said. “It’s very spacious with high ceilings and expansive rooms. Yet it has a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace and a stained glass wall.” Beyond the beauty of the Center, Andrea said the center’s event manager Micki Talarico makes a difference. “She’s been a great help with all the planning,” Andrea explained. Micki stepped in to arrange for the dance floor, will Micki Talarico (left), STM event manager, discusses some of the center’s help decorate, and will coordinate things the day of the wedding, features with parishioner Janet Hauge of Upper St. Clair. including being the liaison for the delivery of flowers, the cake, and all the other “little things” a bride shouldn’t have to worry the group using the center has access to the breezeway. This about on her wedding day. adds great space for a cocktail hour before a reception or meal With a focus on detail, Micki leaves nothing to chance as or just additional room for a large group to spread out.” she works with individuals and families planning gatherings Excellent kitchen facilities ease serving responsibilities for that range from baby showers and wedding receptions to 75th caterers. Those renting the facility can supply their own alcobirthday parties, silver and golden jubilees, and anniversary holic beverages (which can be a cost savings), but an insurance celebrations. fee of $125 payable to the Diocese of Pittsburgh is required if “Our center is perfect for so many occasions, and the differ- serving alcohol. ent rooms offer various benefits depending on what a person is planning,” Micki said. For instance, the large gathering space in the center accommodates more than 330 people. A fireplace and stained glass wall add a warm touch to the room, and dimming lights can change the mood for different types of social gatherings. Group seating, microphone hookups, and speakers for music, coupled with the adjacent café with its large open space for dancing, provide all that is needed for a great party. Smaller groups of up to 70 find the Chelsea Room ideal for luncheons or more intimate gatherings. The Utopia Room is a training facility main gathering ing area in the A fireplace seat . Thomas More Center adds a accommodating 75 for a meeting or w St space at the ne for receptions and parties. 50 for a meal. It is equipped with a special touch screen, Internet access, a video/DVD player, microphone, and LCD pro“The center provides a wonderful sense of comjector (included in the rental cost). munity for any gathering,” Micki said. “Our main For a larger group, the Chelsea and parish events were previously held at nearby hotels. Utopia Rooms can be joined toParishioners and local residents were often looking The Utopia Room gether to handle 150 people. for a convenient place for a special occasion. They equipped with a scris a training facility een, Internet acce ss, a video/DVD pla But the “extras” are what Micki now have it in a lovely setting with a warm, welcomyer, micro and LCD projecto phone, feels set the center apart from other ing atmosphere.” r. event facilities in the area. “Our As Andrea and Vincent walked courtyard is delightful and adds The St. Thomas More Family Life and Education Center, a part of down the aisle this fall, they started such charm to a reception or the parish campus, is located on Fort Couch Road across from South their married life together with the party,” she said. “When Mass is Hills Village. For more information about booking the center, contact first wedding reception celebrated not being said in the Church, Micki Talarico at 412-283-0238 or talaricom@stmpgh.org. in the new STM Center. ■ 68
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Happy Silver Anniversary SHJO The South Hills Junior Orchestra (SHJO) is celebrating its 25th anniversary season of educational enrichment for local youth. A special performance spotlighting the orchestra’s 25 years of service, inviting a homecoming of all SHJO alumni, past performers, parents, and friends of SHJO, will take place on Sunday, June 14, 2009, at 3 p.m. with a rehearsal on Saturday, June 13. Founding directors Paul and Donna Fox make this invitation: “Attention all former SHJO members. Bring your instruments and let’s try to revisit all of our favorite SHJO memories, musical classics, and show-stopping blockbusters. Let’s party!” Organized to complement school music programs and encourage student participation in school bands and orchestras, SHJO is a non-profit, non-competitive, metropolitan youth symphony established in 1983 to provide a rewarding and enjoyable experience in music making. SHJO is sponsored in part by the Upper St. Clair School District, community volunteers from more than 15 local townships donating their services, and the SHJO Booster Association. SHJO has provided a long tradition of high quality music education for thousands of area instrumentalists. Highlights of membership have included exposure to a variety of easy to very challenging repertoire, new (premiere) musical arrangements, chamber ensembles, educational clinics, leadership and conducting training, scholarships, and performance tours to Annapolis, Baltimore, Boston, Harrisburg, Louisville, Niagara Falls, Toronto, and Washington D.C.
The SHJO performs at the State Capital’s East Rotunda.
In addition, SHJO members, boosters, and friends have made significant contributions to local charities and have helped support their host school by purchasing pianos and other instruments, conductor podium/stands, acoustic shells, and storage cabinets for the Upper St. Clair School District. Weekly SHJO rehearsals are held from 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Upper St. Clair High School band room on Saturdays. New players, ages eight to adult, are invited to participate in free trial and open rehearsals in January, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the high school band room. In addition, the general public is invited and encouraged to attend the fall concert on November 16, 2008, and spring concert on May 17, 2009, each at 3 p.m. in the USCHS Theatre. With a current membership of over 120 players (grades 3-12) from the Western Pennsylvania area, SHJO has openings in all instrumental sections. For more information, call SHJO directors Paul or Donna Fox at 412-854-3459 or SHJO managing director Janet Vukotich at 412-341-5160. ■
Teens Receive Award for Philanthropic Innovation Two years after its inception, the Samuel M. Goldston Teen Philanthropy Project has been chosen to receive the Outstanding Philanthropic Innovation Award for 2008 in recognition of its exceptional contributions to the Southwestern Pennsylvania community. Local Jewish teenage philanthropists who participated in the project were honored by the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals as part of the National Philanthropy Day Celebration, on Wednesday evening, November 12, at the Sheraton Station Square Hotel. The Samuel M. Goldston Teen Philanthropy Project is open to teens in the year of, or the year following, their becoming a bar or bat mitzvah, and requires each one to donate $500. The funds donated by the teens are then matched through the United Jewish Federation Foundation by Linda and Edward Goldston, in memory of their son. The teens research various local, national, and Israeli causes, and then decide how to allocate the collective funds. The project’s charitable gifts this year totaled $18,000. Grant recipients included Gilda’s Club, Family Links, and the Pittsburgh Holocaust Center among others. Participants from Upper St. Clair in the project are Betsy Erlanger, Ben Garfinkel, Eli Garfinkel, Jillian Rosen, Ben Ruttenberg, and Eric Williams. Based on the belief that young adults have a sincere desire to do
the right thing and to make informed, strategic decisions to meet community Eli Garfinkel, working at Squirrel Hill needs, the program Food Pantry encourages participants to advocate for causes that are meaningful to them, and award funding to an array of worthy human service agencies. The project is organized by the Agency for Jewish Learning in close cooperation with the United Jewish Federation Foundation. Following completion of the program, participants become trustees of the project and have the opportunity to continue to be involved through their high school years in community service projects. Sharon Perelman, associate director of the UJF Foundation, brought this project to Pittsburgh in 2006. Upper St. Clair residents Nancy and Dan Garfinkel were instrumental in helping to recruit the founding teen trustees and kicking off the program from its inception. ■ Program registration is open for the 2008-09 year. Enrollment is limited to 25 students. For information about registration, contact Sara Gaal at the Agency for Jewish Learning at 412-521-1101, extension 3201 or sgaal@ajlpittsburgh.org. Winter 2008
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Have a Great Skate at Mt. Lebanon Ice Center Robert Hlebinsky, Facilities Manager, Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department Upper St. Clair residents might not know that Mt. Lebanon Ice Rink is open to everyone at the same low cost Mt. Lebanon residents pay. The ice center, conveniently located in the Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center in Mt. Lebanon Park off Cedar Boulevard, began its 32nd season this fall. The ice rink has a regulation ice skating rink and a smaller studio rink. In addition to well-maintained ice, professional instructors and ice guards, the rink offers stadium seating, skate rental, a pro shop, and a snack bar. Mt. Lebanon takes pride in providing a safe, well-supervised facility where people of all ages can learn to skate, enjoy recreational skating, or participate in competitive hockey or figure skating. Mt. Lebanon Ice Rink has been home to several high school hockey teams, The Mt. Lebanon Hockey Association, The Skating Club of Mt. Lebanon, and the Pittsburgh Short Track Speed Skating Club. Mt. Lebanon was a training facility for the Pittsburgh Penguins and has hosted numerous NHL teams for pre-game practices. Many prestigious events such as the National Figure Skating Championships’ School Figures Competition, the Eastern Regional and South Atlantic figure skating championships, and USA Hockey championships have taken place at the rink. The rink sponsors popular annual ice hockey camps and regularly hosts the Mt. Lebanon Invitational skating competition
Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center Something for Everyone! • Ice Hockey Classes, Learn-to-skate programs and Speeding skating • Birthday Parties - Public & Private packages • Developmental Ice Hockey League 5—8 and 9—12 year old players • Adult Night Out-Saturdays 8pm • Play Date on ice every Thursday 9—11 am begins 9/4/08 • Private Ice Rentals & Broomball • Room rentals • Friday Night Skates 8—11 pm, Family Skates Sunday Afternoon, Fun Friday Skate 4:40 pm—6 pm.
412-561-4363 www.mtlebanon.org 70
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and the Special Olympics. National teams from Russia and Czechoslovakia have practiced at the rink. The Oksana Baiul Story was filmed here. Center Mario Lemieux practiced on Mt. Lebanon’s ice. Kristi Yamaguchi visited the rink. Mt. Lebanon Ice Center has a long history, but it’s the ice rink’s day-to-day operations and programs that make it special. Some of the area’s most comprehensive programs are held here and include: • Learn-to-Skate classes for all ages and ability levels • Beginner hockey clinics • Advanced hockey classes • Adult and senior hockey leagues and clinics • Short track speed skating • Public skating, including Friday Night Teen Skate with DJ • Daily public sessions • Playdate on Ice (for preschoolers and their parents) • Birthday party packages • Broomball • Private rentals In addition to the ice rink, Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center includes an outdoor 50-meter Olympic-size pool that is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and offers two waterslides, a children’s wading pool and play area, and a fun fountain. Adult lap lanes are open throughout the day with special adult lap swims available daily and on select evenings. The pool is available for private rental on weekend evenings. Non-residents may purchase season permits or purchase admission by the day. The center also has a community center with rooms that are used for the Recreation Department’s extensive programming such as children’s dance classes, social dance, yoga, Pilates, kick boxing, and body sculpting. The community rooms can be rented for private parties, meetings, and events. The center has hosted everything from graduation parties and circuses to car shows and boxing matches. ■ The Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center is open year-round and welcomes all South Hills residents. For information on public ice skating sessions, skating lessons, and hockey clinics and leagues, log on to www.mtlebanon.org. Information on the center’s other programs and classes is also available online or by calling the center at 412-561-4363. See ad on this page.
Dreams Do Come True— Meeting the Jonas Brothers Elisabeth Kane and Hannah Gross If you haven’t heard of the Jonas After school, we got “Jonased up” with our Brothers then we are guessing you most feminine version of the brothers’ famous likely live in Antarctica. These three broth- style. We were required to meet the tour ers, Kevin, Joe, and Nick, are huge right manager at 6:15 p.m. After waiting in line now and known across world with several in a crowded room with over a hundred chart topping songs. Tens of thousands of girls, we got our turn. As we walked up to girls, ranging in age from three to 20, would them, we shook their hands and introduced give anything to meet these brothers. Their ourselves. The whole time we were thinkfan base is so huge that they have even been ing that this experience was better than we compared to The Beatles. So, it should come could have ever imagined. They were more as no surprise that we, as two 16-year-olds, beautiful and perfect in person than on TV are head over heels in love with them and or in the magazines. All our hard work was were thrilled to hear they were coming to totally worth it! Pittsburgh for a concert on August 26. One day in August, while listening to B94, we heard about a contest where we could decorate a car like the Jonas Brothers to win a “meet and greet” with the band. Immediately, we were on it! Our theme, the “Jo FRO Mobile” was focused on the brothers’ trademark curly hair and Left to ri Nick Jon ght: Kevin Jona cool style of dress. We Joe Jona as, Hannah Gro s, s, and E worked for a week straight lisabeth ss, Kane. Elisabeth Kane with the Jonas to transform a car into a Brothers decorated car giant Jonas Brother. We We posed for a picture with created a pair of giant-sized Ray Bans (their the brothers and were about to leave, comfavorite sunglasses), a striped tie with their pletely in shock that our dream had come logo, and a huge ’fro. We were so excited true. It was then that a security guard said, about our car possibly winning! “Sweet suspenders!” in reference to our Just before submitting our entry, we outfits. We were in awe. Then, the brothers checked the site one last time to confirm all all joined in, enthusiastically commenting, the rules. It turned out that we missed a big “Ah, yes those are sweet. Oh, yeah definitely. one—the deadline! We confused the date Yeah, we love your outfits!” After thanking with another contest on the B94 site. We them, we somehow managed to make our were devastated, but we couldn’t give up. feet move, stumbling away giggling. One We were determined. We called the radio of us was in her own little world staring station, sent emails to the station’s promo- blankly ahead, reliving the moment in her tion director, and posted a video on YouTube mind. The other decided to turn around to document our work of art in an effort to for one last look. As she did, Joe was still meet our dream men. looking around the screen at us, and with Then, B94 announced the “Missing a sly smile, he waved. She smiled back, too Link” contest. We had to find the hidden paralyzed to wave. link on the station’s website to win the meet Once Joe turned around, we clutched and greet with our favorite famous trio. We onto each other and started screaming and searched the site for hours until we finally crying at the same time, until we collapsed found the missing link. We had low hopes, on the ground outside of the pavilion. A but kept our fingers crossed. Our hard work security guard jokingly said, “Why are you and endless search paid off—we won! We crying? Aren’t you happy?” Through our would be meeting the brothers in less than sobbing tears, we replied, “Yes extremely five days! We were beyond excited, pretty happy. This is the best day of our lives. They much in shock. complimented our outfits!” The concert was the evening of our The rest of the concert was amazing. So, first day of school. We could hardly focus that’s how we spent August 26, the first day of on anything besides the fact that we were our junior year in high school—the best day meeting the brothers in a matter of hours. ever where our dreams were fulfilled. ■ Winter 2008
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Prof iles on USC People ® ® CFA, CFP , presi, Blaine Aikin, AIFA 0), has fiduciary360 (fi36 dent and CEO of actices Pr st e national Be been named to th Planial nc na Fi e d by th Task Force create® the of (FPA®). The goal ning Association the for es tic the best prac panel is to identify w ne e th r de un profession financial planning ® (CFP®) fiduciary er Plann Certified Financial . ard nd sta ate a ess at fi360 is to cre nature of our busin to ce an ch e th ve ha “Given that the very I’m pleased to y, lit ibi ns po ese res th ry of culture of fiducia out the importance o feel as strongly ab work with others wh d Aikin. nagement and new regulations,” sai degree in public ma s r’ ste ma s hi ed Mellon University Aikin receiv School of Carnegie inz He e th heny m fro e policy degre science from Alleg degree in political te ua . ad ily rgr fam de d un an and his with his wife in Upper St. Clair College. He resides
Ryan Prokopovich , the son of S. Richard and Phyllis Prokopov ich, attained Eagle Sc out ra nk th is pa st Fe br ua ry. Th ro ug ho ut hi s scouting career, Ry an held many posit ions, including den chief , patrol leader, histor ian, and scribe. Ryan als o took part in the 2005 National Jamboree . For his Eagle servic e project, Ryan coordinated 25 workers reconstruct benche (over 188 man hour s and build flower bo s) to xes at Christ United Church in neighbo Methodist ring Bethel Park. Th e improvement proje the church to use th ct allows e area for outside wo rship and other activ Ryan, a freshman at ities. Penn State, is a 2008 graduate of USCHS. Rev. Lou ise Rog ers recently attained the position of associate pastor of John McMillan Presbyterian Church in Bethel Park. Louise, who lives in the Tow nsh ip wit h her fam ily, is a gra dua te of USC HS, Gro ve City College, and the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.
Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday @ uscsd.k12.pa.us
USC Locals Attend Rally—Find Much More When USC’s Kondrich family attended the McCain/ Palin rally in Washington, Pennsylvania, this past September, they came away with memories of more than just a political rally. Learning that Sarah Palin’s fifth child, Trig, has Down Syndrome and to welcome presidential candidate Senator John McCain and his running mate, Alaska’s Governor Sarah Palin, the Kondriches made a sign that read “We Love Kids With Down Syndrome.” They positioned themselves and the sign where it was highly visible to the candidates. At the end of the rally, five-year-old Chloe Kondrich, a student at Eisenhower Elementary who has Down Syndrome, was summoned with her family by Secret Service agents to personally meet the candidates. Trig was brought from the candidates’ bus to meet Chloe. Chloe kissed baby Trig on the cheek as family members took the opportunity to meet and talk with Senator McCain and Governor Palin and their families for about ten minutes. Margie and Kurt Kondrich, parents of Chloe expressed, “It was an experience we will cherish forever. Everyone was extremely 72
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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warm, friendly, genuine, and down to earth. When we left, we hugged them all. We also feel very blessed to have our daughter, Chloe, at Eisenhower Elementary.” ■
Left to right are Margie Kondrich, Nolan Kondrich, Senator John McCain, Cindy McCain, Kurt Kondrich holding Chloe Kondrich, Governor Sarah Palin, and Todd Palin.
Rotary Club Celebrates 20 Years of Giving As signified by the motto, “Service Above Self,”
Rotary’s main objective is service—in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world. This year the (Breakfast) Rotary Club of Upper St. Clair/Bethel Park, one of 50 clubs in the Pittsburgh district, is celebrating 20 years of giving back to the community. Since its charter date on September 18, 1988, over $300,000 has been donated to local charities. Some of the recipients include Annual Service Above Self Scholarships—one each to a USC and Bethel Park student (2008 USC recipient: Nicole Gans), USCHS Interact Club, USCHS Kids Helping Kids, SHIM, Pregnancy Resource Center of the South Hills, Family Hospice and Palliative Care, Early Learning Institute, Camp Kon-O-Kwee, Camp Kon-O-Kwee Michael Giglotti Scholarship, Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Southwinds, Washington City Mission, YMCA Camp Aim, Neighborhood Academy, Operation Troop Appreciation, Military Connections, Habitat for Humanity, and Paws with a Cause. The money raised comes from the club’s only fundraiser, the annual Chicken BBQ. This event raises more than $20,000 each year for charity and is held in the early fall season at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The club’s social events include a family picnic, a family and friends mini golf event, holiday celebrations, “Changing of the Guard” (the officer changeover dinner held each June), and the
“Annual Giving” dinner (where the proceeds from the BBQ are dedicated to specified charities). The club’s community service projects include USC and Bethel Park Community Day parades, USC and Bethel Park Community Day booths (look for the ever-popular gigantic pinball game), Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh (which helps repair local homes for the less fortunate), SHIM food drives, Camp Kon-O-Kwee (construction of cabins, climbing wall, and trails), Salvation Army bell ringing (throughout the holiday season), Easter Eggs for the Troops (with Military Connections & Operation Troop Appreciation), aided construction for Streams playground and Eisenhower playground pavilion, community roadside clean-up (semiannually), and Early Learning Institute (provide gifts to the disabled students at Christmas and Easter times). Nationally and internally, Rotary Clubs meet weekly where you are always welcomed and recognized. The Breakfast Rotary Club of Upper St. Clair/Bethel Park meets Tuesday mornings at 7 at the Grand Residence on McMurray Road (near Outback Steak House). Rotary is an opportunity to make new connections while serving your community. Please consider joining. ■ For more information, contact Brian Schill at 412-833-6229 or blschill@aol.com, or visit the rotary’s website at www.rotary-usc-bp.org.
Passionate About Riding Danielle Engel, USCHS sophomore and daughter of Nadine and John Engel, competed in the Jr. Hunter Challenge this past August. She placed first in this equestrian competition, which was sponsored by the American Hunter Jumper Foundation and held in nearby Sewickley. Danielle has been riding for eight years and is on the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Equestrian Team. She rides on the varsity team, competing at the national level where she was awarded the fifth highest scoring rider in her zone last year. It’s Danielle’s desire to bring riding closer to home— Upper St. Clair—where she would like it to become a club sport. Danielle is also a staff member of the Clairvoyant, the school’s yearbook. ■ Danielle Engel rides 14-year-old thoroughbred Cool Hand Luke, owned by Michelle Kouri and stabled at Mingo Creek Farms. Winter 2008
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Happenings! USC Newcomers Club Invites You A female-based social network and civic non-profit organization, USC Newcomers Club welcomes residents to join who have lived in USC less than two years or have had a significant lifestyle change. The group is designed to develop fellowship among new residents while also assimilating its members into the activities in Upper St. Clair. There are women-only activities, including monthly dinners, book club, bunko, and movie nights. There are family events, including pool parties, pumpkin picking, and holiday gatherings. There are couple events, including bowling, comedy clubs, and an annual progressive dinner. There is also a very large and active mom and tots group. For more information, contact club president Connie Urban at 412-221-4807 or conniepgh@comcast.net.
USC Newcomers executive officers, left to right: Connie Urban, president; Darlene Bleier, corresponding secretary; Debbie Ogrodnick, treasurer; Jennifer Shelt, recording secretary; and Laura Gregory, vice president
Go Around the World with Cookies St. Matona’s Ladies Society of Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Carnegie will be holding a cookie sale on Saturday, December 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Go Around the World with Cookies” will feature nut rolls, lady locks, nut crescents, Ukrainian truffles, Kolache, Russian torte, and more. Complement your holiday dessert table with these delectable cookies! For more information, call 412-327-8246. Holiday Festival of Trees When: Saturday and Sunday, November 22 and 23, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Chartiers Room, Bridgeville VFD (off of Bower Hill Road between Dairy Delite and train tracks) Cost: $2 per person This annual event , sponsored by The Friends of the Bridgeville Public Library, displays beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each with its own theme. Also, enjoy a Chinese auction, a bake sale, and a 50/50 raffle.
USC Lions Leaf Bag Sale—Last Chance! When: Saturday, November 15 and 22 Time: 9 a.m. to noon Location: USC Department of Public Works building on the corner of McLaughlin Run Road and Truxton Drive 74
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Cookbook Offered To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club offers A Fare to Remember—a treasured collection of 537 recipes from club members and alumni, as well as friends and family and also recipes from special contributor Chef Randy Tozzie of Giant Eagle/Market District in Bethel Park. A portion of the proceeds supports the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Chapters include appetizers and beverages, soups and salads, vegetables and sides, sandwiches and brunch fare, main dishes, breads and rolls, desserts, and a special section devoted to recipes from local celebrities and restaurants. The $20 book, which includes a plastic bookstand that clips into the binder, is available for purchase at Rollier’s on Washington Road, Gifted, and the Center for Theater Arts. Woodville Plantation Hosts Holidays Step back in time at Woodville Plantation as this living history museum celebrates the holiday season in an 18th century fashion. On Sunday, November 23, from noon to 8 p.m., experience the holidays in a “different light” with candlelit tours of the Woodville house. Visitors will learn about holiday customs of the time, including Twelfth Night, Boxing Day, and the firing of the Christmas guns. Cost: $5 per adult, $10 per family Woodville Plantation, located at 1375 Washington Pike in Bridgeville and the home of John and Presley Neville, is Western Pennsylvania’s link to the late 18th century. Built in 1775, this living history museum interprets life during the period of 1780-1820, the era of the New Republic. Music for Mt. Lebanon Concerts Music for Mt. Lebanon, a nonprofit, volunteer-driven community entertainment association, invites South Hills residents to its 63rd season, with three performances remaining in its 2008-09 concert year. • December 6, 2008–The Irish Rovers (www.irishrovers.info) • March 7, 2009–Stig Rossen, star of Les Miserables (www.stigrossen.dk/gb) • April 18, 2009–Caribbean Sound (www.caribbeansound.net) Time and location: Saturday 7:30 p.m. performances are held at Mt. Lebanon High School auditorium. Cost: Tickets for individual shows are available from $25 to $30. For ticket information, call 412-264-3354.
Upper St. Clair High School Spring Musical Always a Community Sellout! Save a Date and Plan to Attend March 6-8 and 12-14, 2009
A Journey to Africa Jason Freyer, Director of Youth Ministries, Westminster Presbyterian My bright orange watch beeps and I question, “Is it 6 a.m or is it midnight?” I then realize that it’s 6 o’clock in the morning here in Africa. This argument plays out in my head as I try to remind myself that I am an entire continent away from home, my wife, my friends, and any semblance of life as I know it. For the last week, I have been in a most beautiful landscape, visiting people in our sister church in Malawi, and developing friendships in less time than I thought possible. One thing is clear, as I stand up and face the window, I am on the journey of a lifetime. I had read that Malawi is the poorest country in the world, that the average life expectancy is only 37 years, and that one in seven people in this country has AIDS. You can read all you want, but nothing will prepare you for seeing it firsthand. Nothing will prepare you to see the straw huts, the dirt roads, or the lack of health care available to this nation’s people. Nothing will prepare you to see the nearly 200 children who iting d their babies wa spend their African women an new baby clinic to enter the nights on the streets in the city of Zomba, mostly orphans whose parents died of AIDS. It takes your breath away. On this particular morning, we are driving to see a newly completed baby clinic. Provided by one of the mission hospitals, this clinic enables mothers to learn how best to care for their infants and give them a chance at a long healthy life. We watched as hundreds of women and their babies gathered to hear what medical professionals had to say that day. We watched as the babies were weighed, given a quick checkup, and ushered into an examination room. But what grabbed my attention, and holds it still to this day, were the older children around us. One thing we learned quickly in Malawi was that the children wanted to have their picture taken by our fancy digital cameras, and then have us show the photo to them. I have about a hundred pictures on my camera of kids from Malawi. They made faces, smiled, laughed, and hugged each other. Each new pose was another opportunity to be captured on film. And each picture I took was an opportunity for me to burn their image into my memory. As I watched the events of this day unfold, noticing the doctors and volunteers giving of themselves completely to people in need, a song played over and over in my mind. The song “Remedy” by David Crowder conjured the thought that if God is the remedy to our human condition, then we must bring the remedy to
people who need it. Westminster Presbyterian Church is actively seeking to bring a remedy to the people of Malawi. It has been said in many different ways that the people in our community want to belong to something big, something outside of themselves. What I shared in this story is only one of 17 days that I spent in Africa, but I can honestly say it has completely changed my world view. On my desktop I look at pictures I took of the many African children, and I remember that we should actively seek to make the world a better place for all. Won’t you join this journey? ■ Rev. Dr. Jim G pastor, with ilchrist, Westminster se a group of African chil nior dren.
Westminster is planning a mission trip to India January 22 through February 5, 2009, and also usually takes yearly trips to Haiti. For information, contact senior pastor Dr. James Gilchrist at 412-835-6630, extension 208 or gilchrist@westminster-church.org.
Westminster Presbyterian Church
A Caring Community of Faith Traditional Worship at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship at 9:45 a.m. Sunday School & Adult Classes at 9:45 & 11:00 a.m. Westminster Presbyterian Church
Annual Christmas Concert December 14 at 7:00p.m.
Handel’s Messiah, Part I Winter 2008
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Advertiser Index W i n t e r
Advertiser
Page
Action Builders .................................................................................................. 73 Acqua Blu, Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center ......................................... 44 Allegheny Land Trust ................................................................Front cover, 16, 17 * Amel’s Restaurant .............................................................................................. 80 Ameriprise Financial Services, John D. Link ..................................................... 65 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ..................................................................................... 55 Baxter Remodeling ............................................................................................ 77 Beacon Insurance Associates, Inc. .................................................................... 77 Betsy Ann American Chocolates ........................................................................ 42 Bistro 19 ........................................................................................................... 43 Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ............................................................... 7 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .............................................................................. 39 California University of Pennsylvania .................................................................. 4 * Carlson Wagonlit Travel .................................................................................... 40 Chatham University ........................................................................................... 13 Cherup, Lori, L., MD, FACS ................................................................................ 9 * Clark Construction Company ............................................................................ 33 * Coffey Contracting Company ............................................................................ 37 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate .............................Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria .................................................... 7, 78 * Coldwell Banker–USC, South Hills Offices ....................................................... 79 Coldwell Banker–Waterdam Farms ................................................................... 61 Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania ............................................................................ 2 Crandall, Steven R., D.M.D. .............................................................................. 31 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ...................................................................................... 57 Dance Workshop by Shari ................................................................................. 44 “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc. ......................................................................... 61 Ferry Electric ..................................................................................................... 77 Family Hospice and Palliative Care ................................................................... 66 Footloose, Etc. .................................................................................................. 43 Fournier Carpentry ............................................................................................ 77 Friendship Village of South Hills ....................................................................... 62 GALLERIA of Mt. Lebanon ................................................................................. 42 * George Girty Landscape Design ........................................................................ 55 Heartland Home Health Care and Hospice ........................................................ 63 * Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ........................................................................................ 63 * Howard Hanna Real Estate Services ..........................................Front inside cover Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh ................................................................ 71 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley .......................................................................... 33
LOOKING AT 15 YEARS OF PUBLICATION
2 0 0 8
Advertiser
Page
* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .......................................................................... 57 Ian Arthurs–Guitar Instructor ............................................................................. 77 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ................................................ 37 Keller Williams–Karen Marshall Group ............................................................. 59 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry .................................................................. 41 Learning Express Toys ...................................................................................... 44 * Lesko Builders and Remodelers ........................................................................ 77 Louis Anthony Jewelers .............................................................Back inside cover * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. .................................................................................. 40 * Master Remodelers, Inc. .................................................................................... 19 McCall’s Math Tutoring ..................................................................................... 77 McMahon Financial, LLC .................................................................................. 22 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ................................................. 77 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ......................................................................... 70 Northwood Realty–Bonnie Detwiler and Marlene McNaughton .......................... 35 Pautler, Simona V., MD, FACS .......................................................................... 19 Pepperoni’s Restaurant ...................................................................................... 77 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ....................................................................................... 41 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ...................................................................... 40 Pittsburgh Audiology ........................................................................................ 63 Port Authority Services ..................................................................................... 77 Premier Personal Healthcare, LLC .................................................................... 39 * Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South ....................................................... 3 RDP Studio Ltd. ................................................................................................ 71 Rohrich Cadillac ................................................................................................ 35 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .......................................................................... 9 Serenity Day Spa & Salon ................................................................................. 43 * Sesame Inn ....................................................................................................... 80 * St. Clair Hospital ................................................................................................. 1 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ................................................................. 40 Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, P.C. ........................................................... 51 Stephen Szabo Salon ........................................................................................ 42 Sultanov, David J., DMD, PC ............................................................................ 51 The Growth Coach®–Chuck Chrissis ................................................................ 64 * Valley Brook Family Dental–Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD ...................................... 19 Watermark Financial .......................................................................................... 59 Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas ............................................................... 23 Westminster Presbyterian Church ..................................................................... 75 Wright’s Seafood Inn ......................................................................................... 80
Advertise with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, in publication since 1994. Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 • Fax: 412-851-2592 • Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine • Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us *The above VIP advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 28 issues.
Upcoming guides for the Spring 2009 issue include Celebration, Dining, and Home Improvement. The staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY would like to thank our advertisers, who make possible this community publication. 76
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Classifieds To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
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Winter 2008
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Cherries in the Snow 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted 1 (12 oz.) Cool Whip, thawed 1 large angel food cake, cut into cubes (8 cups) 2 cans cherry pie filling Beat cream cheese until smooth. Blend in powdered sugar, beat until blended. Fold in Cool Whip. In large glass bowl, begin layers with enough cherries to cover bottom, then half of the cake cubes. Top with cream cheese mixture. Repeat layer again, ending top with cherries. Chill. Note: Upper St. Clair Community Foundation Flavours cookbook recipe, courtesy of Linda McMinn.
Winter 2008
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Make your Holiday Reservations Now! Come Celebrate the Chinese New Year in January 2009!
COLDWELL BANKER Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!
Crafted with incredible attention to detail, 4 year young Provincial perfectly positioned on 1 acre cul de sac level lot! $1,295,000 Maria & Joe Lane 412-344-0500
Complete makeover! Fabulous Provincial in Deerfield Manor! Governer’s drive, 5Br, 4.5Ba, many amenities! $649,900 Sydnie Jones 412-344-0500
Fabulous over 2 story brick & stone home, dynamite kitchen, 5Br, 4.5Ba, Familyrm, den, 3 fireplaces, covered porch! $585,000 Laura Simon 412-344-0500
Spacious, one of a kind 5Br, 4.5Ba Provincial with a flexible floor plan located on a wooded level lot! $575,000 Kathi Kernan 412-344-0500
Impeccable brick colonial! Open staircase and floor plan, state of the art cherry kitchen, familyrm bar area, gamerm, 2 car garage! $489,900 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405
Mint condition! Beautiful gourmet kitchen, 5Br, 2.5Ba fantastic familyrm addition with fireplace, den, gameroom and more! $329,900 Kathy Sekeras 412-833-5405
Move in condition, 4Br, 2.5Ba, 2 story, open foyer, master suite vaulted ceiling and loft, Florida room, deck! $329,900 Paul Gupta 412-833-5405
Fully updated 4Br, 2.5Ba home, neutral paint, refinished floors, gourmet kitchen, familyrm fireplace plus gameroom! $289,900 Karen McCartney 412-833-5405
Mega 4Br, 3Ba brick ranch, sunken vaulted familyrm-walls of windows, gamerm, 3 fireplaces, 2 flagstone patios! $269,000 Noel Bliman 412-344-0500
Move in condition, all brick updated home, familyrm fireplace, 5Br, 2.5Ba, large side porch! $250,000 Edith Gidwani 412-344-0500
Lovely colonial, den or 4th Br, 2+2 Ba, familyrm fireplace, 2nd floor laundry, daylight gamerm, deck, custom built! $239,900 Genie Gooding 412-344-0500
Totally updated 4Br, 2.5Ba colonial, familyrm fireplace, gamerm, all new appliances, flooring, furnace, meticulous! $229,900 Karen McCartney 412-833-5405
Located on dead end street, lovely 5Br, 2.5Ba colonial with familyrm fireplace, gamerm! $227,500 Bonnie Loya 412-831-5555
Brick & stone ranch on level cul de sac featuring 3Br, 2.5Ba, walkout familyrm, updates! $215,000 Lisa Moeser 412-833-5405
Cottage style home on beautiful lot in Brookside Farms, open floor plan, screened porch! $150,000 John Geisler 412-344-0500
Charming 4Br, 1.5Ba colonial with large rooms situated on a private wooded setting! $137,900 Tim Ulam/Sue Franz 412-831-5555
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