Horses with Hope

Tim Gagne

While Western Pennsylvania is winding down for the winter, Horses with Hope Discovery, Growth & Learning Programs, which earlier this year moved to the Upper St. Clair Historical Society’s Gilfillan Farm, is still going strong with a variety of programs and events.

Equine Assisted Learning

Horses with Hope’s Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) programs for groups of six or more are designed to promote personal growth and the development of positive social/life skills in a fun and supportive environment. EAL uses a research-based curriculum of activities designed to address individual goals and needs. Each equine interaction is un-mounted and framed to help individuals learn and grow. All programs are taught by a PATHintl TR instructor and/or an EAGALA-certified equine specialist at Horses with Hope’s indoor facility on Brush Run Road in Bethel Park.

Giving Tuesday and United Way Campaigns

Giving Tuesday will be held this year on Tuesday, November 30. The idea behind Giving Tuesday is to take a break from the bedlam of holiday shopping to focus on helping those in need in our own community. Please consider Horses with Hope in your 2021 Giving Tuesday contributions. To donate, visit https://www.horseswithhope.org/donate.

Does your company conduct an annual United Way campaign? Or maybe you give to the United Way and the myriad of nonprofits it supports. Horses with Hope is a beneficiary organization of the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. If you’re planning a United Way donation, please specify that you’d like your contribution to go to Horses with Hope.

Annual Bowling Fundraiser

You’ll be bowled over by the amazing time you’ll have at Horses with Hope’s annual bowling fundraiser on Sunday, November 14, noon–3 p.m. at Meadows Lanes, Meadows Racetrack & Casino, 210 Racetrack Road in Washington, Pennsylvania. Twenty-four lanes are reserved for this event, so it’ll be a great way to interact with staff, volunteers, and supporters while raising money for Horses with Hope’s programs. The cost is $200 per lane or $35 per person. Register by contacting Joanne Slappo at 412-576-4154 or laslappo@verizon.net.

Volunteer Opportunities

Becoming a Horses with Hope volunteer is an ongoing opportunity that is more than just helping out. Volunteers are an integral part of the team. It’s through their enthusiasm and dedication that the group is able to make a difference in the lives of others in our community. Volunteer opportunities exist within a variety of options. Not only within the stable and helping with the riding programs, volunteers are also welcomed in the areas of fundraising, student mentors, community events, animal care, and more. Volunteers must be 14 years of age to assist with therapeutic riding lessons. Volunteer forms and information can be found at www.horseswithhope.org/volunteer.

About Horses with Hope

Horses With Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The group’s programs focus on improving the lives of children, youth, and adults by assisting them in reaching beyond their abilities, allowing daily success and milestones to be accomplished through the partnership developed by horse and rider. n

For more information on Horses with Hope Discovery, Growth & Learning Programs, visit https://www.horseswithhope.org.

Meet Buddy

Meet Buddy, a new addition to the Horses with Hope herd that you may see as you walk or drive by Gilfillan Farm. This nine-year-old Haflinger arrived with the name “Buddy,” and it fits him perfectly! Always right by your side, he is proving to be everyone’s buddy. Entering the therapeutic riding program in the 2022 season, the Horses with Hope staff is confident that he’ll be a favorite among participants. n

Buddy

Organized by residents concerned about the future of our community, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair has fostered many community projects throughout the township since 1993. Our mission is “to build a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.” To fulfill this mission, funds are secured from donations, fund raisers, memorial contributions, grants from other foundations, and the state government. Our goal is to nurture ideas and support innovations by contributing financial backing for special programs and projects that may not be funded by tax dollars. Grants are available for programs and projects that fall into the focus areas of Arts, Health, and STEM. Visit www.cfusc.org/grants to complete an application.

EST. 1993 ARTS

EST. 1993 HEALTH

EST. 1993

www.cfusc.org

EST. STEM 1993

EST. 1993

Step Out St. Clair

Participants in the Step Out St. Clair Health Initiative (S.O.S.) submitted their steps and here are the top three scores! Congratulations to Gold Medalist Laurie M. (884,112 steps) Silver Medalist Gina S. (852,753 steps) Bronze Medalist Anna D. (444,670 steps)

h y d r a t e daily!

And Step Out Safely! Mindfulness and the Integrity of “Sharing the Road”

British writer C. S. Lewis said, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” For safety’s sake, integrity should always be at the front of our thinking whether we are driving or sharing the road as walkers, runners, bicyclists, with pets on leashes, and when using any non-motorized mode of transportation. Since emerging from pandemic sequestering, drivers in particular seem to be in a big hurry, sliding through stop signs and racing forward with a coffee cup or a cellphone in their hand. It is of the utmost importance for anyone on foot to be mindful of their surroundings at all times when sharing the road and to exercise good judgment, watching for distracted drivers who may not notice those big red octagons or the posted speed limit signs. Drivers and walkers all need to raise their level of concern for the safety of others. CFUSC’s Step Out St. Clair initiative has researched some important information to share.

Obviously, the consequence of any lapse in judgment regardless of your mode of transportation can endanger yourself and others. When you were learning to drive and came to a stop sign, did anyone tell you to “Stop, Count to FIVE (1001-1002-1003-1004-1005) - then Drive,” even when no other cars were coming? Then of course, there is the speed limit which is not merely a suggestion. Consider the common sense thinking of local government that led to the placement of those prominent signs to provide protection for the communityat-large.

Wise walkers and runners must take charge of their own destiny, leaving the headset at home and resisting the attempt to read texts or emails or even to talk on the phone while stepping out to exercise. It is of the utmost importance that while enjoying the fresh air, runners and walkers always walk on the left side of the street facing oncoming traffic. Common sense should also tell us that foot traffic should yield to the drivers of those very heavy vehicles!

Are you aware of these pedestrian laws found on the Upper St. Clair Township website?

Title 75 § 3544. Pedestrians walking along or on highway. (a) Mandatory use of available sidewalk: Where a sidewalk is provided and its use is practicable, it is unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway. (b) Absence of sidewalk: Where a sidewalk is not available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk only on a shoulder as far as practicable from the edge of the roadway. (c) Absence of sidewalk and shoulder: Where neither a sidewalk nor a shoulder is available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk as near as practicable to an outside edge of the roadway and, if on a two-way roadway, shall walk only on the left side of the roadway. (d) Right-of-way to vehicles: Except as otherwise provided in this sub-chapter, any pedestrian upon a roadway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway.

In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributed 3142 deaths to driving while distracted. A recent study showed that the average person takes their eyes off the road while driving for about 5 seconds when looking at a cell phone. A vehicle traveling at 40 MPH is going about 60 feet per second. In the 5 seconds that the person is looking at the phone, the vehicle has traveled the length of a football field.

Let’s all share the road in a safe and mindful manner, and model a strong example of integrity for younger members of our community. Be Safe!

The Community Foundation welcomes Gary to the Board. With a background in business development, marketing, sales, and strategic planning, he also has deep experience serving on boards of directors and boards of advisors for manufacturing companies. He and his wife, Catherine, are empty nesters with three children who have all completed at least one college degree. Gary enjoys walking and hiking, bicycling, and reading, and one of his passions is health and wellness for seniors. As a Pittsburgh native, Gary has been away in other cities for more than 40 years and is glad to be back.

Panther Blankets Are Back in Stock

When the temperature drops, grab your double-sided, silky, plush Panther blanket to keep warm at sport events, to decorate a dorm room, or give as a gift, or to snuggle up with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate! You can place your order today by visiting https://www.cfusc.org where you can pay by credit card or by using PayPal, and the sales tax is included in the purchase price. All purchases will be hand-delivered to Upper St. Clair residents by Community Foundation Trustees. Your purchase will help the Foundation defray operating costs so that grants can continue to be available to residents to launch innovative projects and ideas throughout the community.

CFUSC Welcomes Horses with Hope to Gilfillan Farm

EST. STEM 1993

EST. 1993

CFUSC is grateful for the continuing support of the community. Your donations enable us to continue to honor our mission to build a strong sense of community and to bring enrichment to our residents.

We were pleased to receive a request for funding from Horses with Hope for the building of a mounting block for riders with physical challenges. This grant request was a perfect fit with our Health focus area and helped to bring this amazing program right into our neighborhood. It created a “win-win” for the riders, for the horses, for the volunteers who participate, and for the communityat-large.

If you have a unique idea that cannot be funded with tax dollars, go to www.cfusc.org/grants where you can complete and submit an application. Through the years we have supported several hundred projects and events, and helped to advance many initiatives in the schools and the community. Internationally renowned performers have graced the stage in the High School theater, thousands of dollars worth of technology equipment have been provided for the schools, partnerships have been formed with many organizations, and many community initiatives have been launched and nurtured.

You can also visit www.cfusc.org/donate to make a donation using PayPal or your credit card. Checks can be made payable to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and mailed to our office. Your donation will be tax deductible. If your work place has a matching fund program, we can work with you to document your donation, and it is also possible to set up a monthly donation program.

We are grateful to our donors and hope to add you to our list of people who make a difference as we continue to nurture opportunities in Upper St. Clair.

If you are interested in becoming a Trustee, the application is on our website, and if you have any questions about CFUSC, please feel free to reach out to any Trustee. Their email addresses are on the website.

Thanks again for making it possible for us to continue to bring enrichment to our residents.

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and is recognized by the

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Charitable Organization. CFUSC ~ 2585 Washington Road # 131 ~ Pittsburgh, PA 15241 www.cfusc.org ~ 412-440-8464

On Stage with Jim and Lanny

Tune in to 15241 TODAY talk “On Stage with Jim and Lanny” to enjoy the half-hour broadcast that engages local celebrities and people with ties to USC. Through light-hearted, friendly conversations, the show is co-hosted by Jim Render and Lanny Frattare and aired on USC’s TV stations, Cable 7 and Verizon 42. The broadcast can also be viewed at any time using a computer or handheld device. Search YouTube for “Upper St. Clair Public Access Television” to choose the broadcast you’d like to watch, or visit USC Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) and click on USC Cable TV under the “Community” subhead to see the current program schedule. Links to all videos are also shared on Upper St. Clair School District’s athletic website (https://upperstclairathletics.com).

Listen to one entertaining hour with three of the most notable sports announcers in Pittsburgh. Jim and Lanny talk with Paul Alexander of KDKA Radio and 93.7 the Fan, Rob King of AT&T Sports, and Alby Oxenreiter of WPXI-TV. Find out how they each got started in their broadcasting careers, and enjoy the stories from their decades covering Pittsburgh sports. https://youtu.be/QYxyx3-Q_Z4

Left to right: Paul Alexander, Rob King, Alby Oxenreiter

Dr. Jack Failla

Josh Matheny

Dr. Jack Failla helped pioneer sports medicine. The founder of Tri-State Orthopedics and the orthopedic doctor of the Pittsburgh Pirates for two decades, Jack walks us through his early years revolutionizing the care of athletes. Listen as Jack shares his memories from his times with Willie Stargell, Jim Bibby, and Don Robinson. https://youtu.be/hUg3qTXKwNs

Hear stories told by Josh Matheny, USCHS Class of 2021. His swimming acumen started at a young age and led to his brush with fame at USA Olympic Swim Trials this past summer. Headed to Indiana University, Bloomington, this young man has a bright future and is grateful to those who helped get him where he is today, especially his family. https://youtu.be/od0r6sKstY0

Pam Dillie

Christian Gmiter

Mel Blount

A third-grade teacher at Baker Elementary and the School District’s elementary science curriculum leader, Pam Dillie was named the K-8 Science Education Award winner from the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh this past school year. A teacher for 34 years, learn what Pam has experienced over the years and how important she believes in-person learning is to our youth. (See related article on page 50.) https://youtu.be/VhNwGVaPuwQ

Working in libraries for 27 years (and counting), Christian Gmiter, USC Township’s Director of Library, shares his love for his work and for sports. This Pitt graduate’s dream job was realized in April 2020 when he was named USC’s library director after the retirement of former director Helen Palaczak. https://youtu.be/PLnIH1xbYaA

Mel Blount, the former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back, was so good that the rules were changed to give receivers a chance to compete. The National Football League Hall of Fame player was nicknamed “Sup” by his teammates, which was short for “Super.” In addition to a walk down memory lane, learn what Mel is doing today. https://youtu.be/6Opkgg6qMpU

Mike Junko, an Upper St. Clair graduate, was an outstanding quarterback for the Upper St. Clair Panthers, as well as the Akron Zips during his collegiate years. The head football coach at USC for two years, he is a rising star among the many new coaches in the WPIAL. https://youtu.be/chZzMZ0SvzU n

We all know that photos help capture and preserve moments and memories. These two photos were taken last December after a winter storm blew through Upper St. Clair. n

Along the trails at Boyce Mayview Park, near the location of the former Outdoor Classroom site

USC’s Billings Drive

—Above photos courtesy of USC resident Paul Brown

Here We Go, Steelers!

The setting sun peaks out at a USC Steeler fan pregame gathering on Pittsburgh’s Northside.

The Steelers beat Seattle 23–20 in overtime at the Sunday night game. Musical entertainment was provided by Rob Shogry, aka

Nevin James, and his band.

In movies, the pretty girl with the tiny waist always gets the boy. In books, the thin girl with arms and legs to match achieves her goal and has her happily-ever-after ending.

Like any adolescent, I wanted to meet my prince charming. I wanted to get swept off my feet and fall hopelessly in love. I wanted to achieve my athletic goals and be the fastest runner. I wanted to be happy. So, I thought if I was thin, happiness would follow.

I started comparing myself to those girls in the movies, or models on the runways, and even influencers on social media. I convinced myself that I was “too fat” and, therefore, unworthy of love, success, and ultimately, happiness.

Losing weight was easy. I started working out more and eating less. I began feeling worse. The physical damage of not eating was obvious. Although knowing the damage I was doing to my body, I couldn’t stop. I was becoming addicted to being skinny. While this new lifestyle was bad for my body and my physical health, most importantly, it was detrimental to my mental health. Whenever I did eat some sort of food on a rare occasion, the guilt of consuming those “extra calories” began to eat me alive. Food was on my mind 24/7. I could focus on nothing else. A constant battle in my head, the debate was whether to eat or not to eat, as well as what to eat. The number on the scale kept going down. My body got thinner. Never satisfied, I hoped for a lower number, a thinner waist, smaller legs, tinier arms.

I never ate enough; therefore, I never felt like I was enough. It was cliche, almost predictable, now that I look back. I started using laxatives, ironically because only a few months prior, I swore that I’d never use dietary pills. I reassured everyone, including myself, that I had it under control. My weight and physique were under control, but by a measure that I continually reset. Little did I know, I wasn’t the one controlling the decisions. My eating disorder was in charge. My mental illness was obvious. I finally accepted that I was anorexic.

Even with the diagnosis, I didn’t stop. I was worried that if I wasn’t ill, I would gain back tons of weight and lose my self-worth. I was worried about how people, and society in general, would view me. In a way, I didn’t think my anorexia was that bad. I didn’t feel ill enough. Once upon a time, I hoped for happiness, But, I ended up feeling miserable and sad.

I finally had had enough. I wanted change. Recovery is not easy, but deciding to start the journey is even harder. Looking back, it was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever encountered. Starting recovery means admitting you are ill and need help. I don’t recall a specific turning point. The recovery, like the illness, was gradual. But, during that process, I learned that I can’t live a full life on an empty stomach.

The choice to recover took courage. Noticing the weight gain from recovery, I often fall back and feel hopeless and overwhelmed. I realize that it’s silly because I was gaining the weight I was never meant to lose. Even now, eating regularly triggers anxiety. But, I know that any amount of food can never hurt me as much as my eating disorder. I began opening up and sharing my thoughts with supportive friends. It made the journey easier. I regret not doing it sooner.

Being vulnerable about mental illnesses, like admitting defeat, is scary. But, I didn’t wave my little white flag to anorexia. On the contrary, I started a war with my illness because I chose recovery. I chose to not be sick, but to be healthy. When I ripped off the “anorexic” label, I started to see things differently and feel calmer and more fulfilled. Even with a few relapses and defeats, I picked myself back up because the happiness of recovery is better. I gained personal freedom and control.

Before, anorexia controlled me and dominated my emotions, feelings, thoughts, values, and body. It was never my decision to purposely miss meals, over-exercise, deprive my body of needed nutrients, convince myself that I am not worthy, isolate myself from friends and family, mentally drain myself. It was never my decision to do any of these things.

It took a long time for me to realize that thin does not equal beauty, and beauty has nothing to do with happiness. Looking back at old pictures, I looked sick, not pretty. Looking in the mirror now, although still very challenging, I see myself as beautiful and healthy.

Life is so much more than a number on a scale. It is so much more than the size of your jeans or the measurement of your waist. Life is about enjoying pasta dinner with teammates or going on random coffee runs with friends. It is about having popcorn on movie nights. Life is about being happy for who you are, not the illusion of what a particular size can bring you.

I promise that you are more than enough just as you are. n

A Time Line of Upper St. Clair (1736–1945)

1736–1818

Arthur St. Clair— The Township was given his name.

1783

Alexander Gilfillan’s log cabin (photo by Margaret Smith Furen in 1893). Gilfillan owned 400 acres called Cato.

1794

The Higbee School was the first school house west of the Alleghenies. The school was located on the Higby Farm on Upper Road.

1830

The Log House was built for farm hands but called home by many.

1871

The Boyce Railroad was the first railroad to the Township.

1839

The Township was divided into Upper and Lower St. Clair.

1736 1783 1794 1830 1839 1871

1762 1788 1806 1834 1859

1762

John Fife’s well (Cauld Well—cauld in Scotch means cold). John Fife is the first known settler. He claimed 1000 acres called Cremona.

1788

Allegheny County was formed and St. Clair was one of the seven Townships formed in the new county.

1806

The Seegar House is the oldest house in Upper St. Clair.

1794

Fort Couch was the site of the last of the Indian raids after the Battle of Fallen Timbers.

1859

The Township had nine school houses costing a total of $600.

1834 This one-room public school house cost only $200 to build.

1898

Route 19 was first paved from Mt. Lebanon to Clifton.

1901

RFD (rural-free delivery) began from Bridgeville. Web Connor was the Upper St. Clair mailman.

1908

The Washington Interurban streetcar line was built, providing hourly transportation to and from Pittsburgh.

1939

Jack Klancher was Upper St. Clair’s first policeman.

1912 The Clifton Ladies Social Club visited the Heinz Company. The Clifton Ladies Social Club is now named the Upper St. Clair Woman’s Club.

1898 1901 1908 1912 1939

1880 1900 1904 1910 1913 1945

1900 There were six post offices in Upper St. Clair.

1880

Thomas Beadling and Sons opened coal mines and Walt’s Tavern.

1910

The present Bethel Presbyterian Church was built under Pastor Dr. Cornelius Wycoff (1873–1913), The church was founded by Rev. John McMillan in 1776.

1913

Brookside Farms was the first real estate development in Upper St. Clair.

1904

The first telephone was in the General Store at Clifton.

1945

The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department purchased its first fire engine.

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.

Lily (Olsakovsky) Bamberger, USCHS Class of 2013, started her own business this past year called Oak and Rose, a company that curates products and goods “Made in the USA” by American small businesses. Starting the company early in 2021 after seeing so many small businesses struggle due to COVID-19 shutdowns, Lily was inspired by the way that Americans came together amidst the challenges to support businesses in local communities.

“From Small Business Saturdays to ordering out from local restaurants, our personal decisions to support the families in our own communities made a noticeable impact on those businesses and their owners,” said Lily. Continuing the support beyond 2020 is what Oak and Rose is all about. Oak and Rose sends six to eight full-sized items to your door from the small business partners that they feature each season. Lily’s appreciation for community began while growing up in Upper St. Clair, where she was involved in the USCHS music department and swimming and diving team. In 2017, she

Lily Bamberger, owner, graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with Oak and Rose a BA in vocal performance and minor in business administration. Through interactions with mentors, teachers, and peers, she developed the foundational principles that are now the pillar of her business; the most important being strong community relationships.

After graduating from CMU and living out of state for a few years, she moved back to the area to grow her roots with her family, her husband, Ben, and puppy, Bondi. The Bambergers are expecting a baby this coming January.

My Pop Up Party was a long burning dream that became a reality in late 2020. Gina Harris and Juliana (Jules) Scorsone met in 2016 when they bought houses just two blocks from one another. On their very first meeting, they discovered that they share a mutual love of hosting, design, and event styling, and have since been inseparable! After spending two years co-chairing as event coordinators for the USC Newcomers Club, the perfectionist duo decided to leave the corporate world behind and pursue their self-made dreams.

In search of a more creative outlet, they decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship and My Pop Up Party was born. As moms themselves, they understand the pressure to throw a perfect party, but can relate to not having the time or energy to fully execute one. Gina and Jules are always dreaming up new ways to bring your party to the next level, while making the day as Pinterest-perfect as your dreams. At the heart of this duo remains a shared belief that a beautifully executed vision can transform any celebration.

The journey to My Pop Up Party has been exhilarating and fulfilling and one they are truly grateful for.

For more information on Oak and Rose, visit https://oakandrose.us/ or @oakandrose.us on Instagram.

Left to right: USC residents Juliana Scorsone, Gina Harris; My Pop Up Party owners/party stylists

The Power of Music and Early Ear Training

Martina Caruso, Co-Owner, Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh

We hear quotes about the power of music every day.

Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.—Plato

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.—Victor Hugo

Life seems to go on without effort when I am filled with music. —George Eliot

And, the list goes on. But, how many of these quotes hold true, and how many of them are simply opinion? I suppose that is up to the reader to decide. What we do know, however, is that there has been extensive research to prove the benefits of music on the brain, especially when consumed in our early childhood years. Let’s dive in.

Music and language. We all want our children to excel in reading. Studies have shown that for young children, music directly benefits their ability to learn words, speak them correctly, and process different types of sounds. This is because music education emphasizes the recognition and repetition of pitch, tone, and words themselves. It’s just like learning a new language. The younger you are when you begin, the more fluent you will become into adulthood.

Music and mathematics. After language comes a desire for our children to be proficient in mathematics. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) advocates for math learning in contexts that simultaneously support other types of thinking, such as music. It’s no wonder! Just like the lingual benefits music provides, music improves mathematical understanding in the realms of spatial awareness, pattern recognition, counting by rote, and more.

Music and brain function. Perhaps the most impressive benefit music provides our children is its effect on brain functions required to process situations and find solutions. Musicians need to be proficient in sight-reading, instrumental manipulation, and lyric memorization. These skills directly correlate to enhanced memory and mental processing functions of the brain. A recent study conducted by ScienceDirect confirmed that musicians outperform non-musicians on tests of auditory, visual, and executive memory skills. Musicians are also found to have higher levels of grey matter in their brains, which is directly tied to their auditory processing and comprehension.

In conclusion. Language, math, and brain function are enhanced through musical training. The list of benefits is much longer, however. Music benefits study skills, motor skills, social skills, team building skills, hand-eye coordination, and more. Whether the goal of your child’s music education is to have them become the next Mozart or simply for them to have fun, music provides benefits far beyond what the ear hears. And, so, I end with one final quote on which, I think, we can all agree.

Without music, life would be a mistake.—Friedrich Nietzsche n

WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING

Over 20 Years Experience Dependable Service ♦ Reasonable Rates

• Window Cleaning (Interior/exterior) • Gutter Cleaning • Pressure Washing • Snowplowing • Landscaping

FULLY INSURED ♦ FREE ESTIMATES 412-726-0035

Instructions for Traveling with TODAY

Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information. • Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine. • Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stay-athome project. • Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary. • Email information to usctoday@uscsd.k12. pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

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

The induction of Donny Shell, Troy Polamalu, and Bill Cowher on August 7 into the 2020 NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, along with 17 others, held excitement for Steeler Nation. Listening to their acceptance speeches, Troy’s words were especially remarkable. If athletes can be role models, Troy is that athlete. His words, his character, and his dedication are things that will inspire many future generations. On the following day, Steeler Alan Faneca was inducted into the 2021 Hall of Fame, along with seven others. n

In the distance is former Steelers coach Bill Cowher, walking to the ceremony venue

Enjoying the event and waiving terrible towels are USC graduates Joey DeGiornio and Graham Gillen

Lessons in History and Outdoor Pleasures

A day trip south of Pittsburgh on Route 40 has a lot to offer. Fort Necessity, in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, shares a lesson about the French and Indian War. History buffs can learn about British Lt. Col. George Washington’s journey through the Laurel Highlands and the building of Fort Necessity, all which began his exemplary military leadership. On July 4, 1754, after one day of battle, Washington admits his only military surrender to the French, and buries General Edward Braddock’s body five days later near the fort.

With the fort being burned to the ground shortly after the battle, standing today is a replica of the fenced-in area that housed supplies and where docents and re-enactors invite visitors to learn about

Pennsylvania’s significance in shaping the

United States of America. Continuing on to Ohiopyle, whitewater rafters, mountain bikers, walkers, and picnickers were engaged in all sorts of outdoor pleasures. A history lesson continued about the mid-1970s French and Indian War in this particular area, as well as the Whiskey Rebellion in the early 1790s. n A view of the Youghiogheny River

Montreal offers visitors an exceptional variety of experiences, including Old Montreal

Enjoying an early morning tour of the backside of Saratoga Springs racetrack

Travel to the Eastern U.S. and Canada Offers Variety

TODAY traveled east and north by car for a twoweek late summer respite. Starting in the quaint town Downtown Stowe of Saratoga Springs, New York, to enjoy the well-known Travers Stakes race, the next stops were to Stowe and Burlington, Vermont, for outdoor adventure and visits to breweries and distilleries, among them: Mad River Distillers. With required medical clearances, TODAY then crossed the Canadian border at Rouses Point, New York, and headed to the more cosmopolitan surroundings of Montreal. Walking Old Town Montreal in search of libations and shopping TODAY passed the beautiful Notre Dame Basilica and then headed further north to visit the location of the 1976 Summer Olympics, as well as the hipster area of Le Plateau. Coming back into the U.S., TODAY traveled to Lake Placid, New York, the spot where the 1938 and 1980 Winter Olympics took place, a mere 110 miles south of Montreal. Some areas of the village were under construction, as the town is readying to host the 2023 Winter University Games. Choosing a hotel on the perimeter of Mirror Lake in the midst of downtown Lake Placid, where

Mad River Distillers’ operation paddle boarding and kayaking are plentiful, the center, Warren, Vermont fresh air and beauty of the Adirondack Mountains was exhilarating. The pleasure trip concluded with a stop to Bethany Beach, where toes are in the sand and gazing at the Atlantic Ocean for one last summer day was truly a trip complete. n

Heading to the beach at Bethany

Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid, the location of the 1980 Olympic downhill skiing events

Miracle on Ice in Lake Placid

The Miracle on Ice is the single greatest and most iconic sports moment in the history of the United States. Americans were enduring some dark times leading up to the Olympic Games, and had no reason to feel proud to be Americans. Many Americans ashamedly felt the betrayal of the Watergate Scandal; the Iranian Revolution had caused a crushing oil crisis; and Americans were being held hostage in Iran and had been up to that point for more than two months. Additionally, the Soviets had invaded Afghanistan on Christmas Eve, just one month ahead of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York.

On February 22, 1980, a sporting event, a simple hockey game, gave hope to our nation and gave U.S. citizens something to rally behind. Under Olympic hockey head coach Herb Brooks (and a Pittsburgh Penguins coach after that), a bunch of young college kids upset the four-time defending gold medalist and heavily favored Soviet Union team 4–3. This sent the Americans to the gold medal game, which they would eventually win. By defeating the long-standing Soviet rival, it inspired millions and showed that even when times are tough and the U.S. is the underdog, together we can (and should) battle through it. n

Housed in the Lake Placid Olympic Ice Arena is the original dasher board and hockey net used in the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. Goalie Jim Craig had 39 saves in the semifinal game against the heavily favored Soviet Union.

Residential and Commercial Landscape Design & Installation

landscaping, lighting, patios, pavers, retaining walls, ponds, waterfalls, outdoor kitchens, fire pits

Over 30 years in business!

412-720-5189

Creating beautiful outdoor living spaces

“Good landscaping doesn’t just happen, it’s designed.”

Happening. Or Not.

The Labouré Ladies Guild (fka the DeMarillac Guild of St. Louise de Marillac Parish) will hold its annual Joy of Christmas craft show, with 121 crafters and a Chinese auction. Due to the order of the USC fire marshal, strollers are not permitted. Date: Saturday, November 20, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Location: St. Louise de Marillac School/LeGras Parish Center, 320 McMurray Road, USC Admission fee: $2, includes a ticket for the Chinese auction

The USC Class of 1971 50th reunion, originally scheduled for October 1–2, 2021, has been postponed until October 2022 due to the safety concern for attendees surrounding the continued COVID situation at the time of the originally scheduled event.

Look for further details in a coming issue of TODAY or contact the reunion committee at usc1971pa@gmail.com. Information can also be found on USC School District’s alumni website at https://www.connect2uscsd.com/e/class-of-197150-year-reunion/.

Winter Celebration, Naturally

George Girty, Owner, George Girty Landscape Design

I don’t know of too many houses in my neighborhood that do not decorate for fall. I see baskets of mums on doorsteps, hay bales covered with gourds and Indian corn. There are corn stalks on lampposts, scarecrows in yards, and, of course, pumpkins. Lots and lots of pumpkins.

I like this natural approach to decorating. To me, it’s not about Halloween, but more about recognition of our timehonored connection to the harvest season. All cultures stop and give thanks for their harvest bounty. Even the full moon at this time of year is appropriately called the Harvest moon.

The question is, how can we fill our homes and lives with the spirit of winter, naturally? The winter holiday season is marked with a special significance. Whether Hannukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Sparkle Season, the winter holiday season is filled with festivities and family memories. Natural decorating isn’t about being crafty, it’s about recognizing the beauty that is all around us. I often set out cut evergreen trees in my yard. They can be decorated with strings of cranberries and popcorn that the birds find irresistible. Moss and lichens can add the finishing touch to decorations.

It’s nearly impossible to walk through a wooded lot and not see the bright orange and red berries of the Oriental Bittersweet vine. They are ideal to weave and twist into wreaths or garland. As an invasive species, you’re providing a service by protecting our native flora by removing the invasive Bitterweet. I also cut boughs of fir and pine and drape them on my shelves and mantle. The fragrance is far more delightful than anything out of a spray can. I also cut branches from my Holly trees and bushes. Their dark leaves and bright berries bring a touch of joy into my home. Birch logs and branches, with their shocking white bark, can be used for decorating, as well.

Dried flowers, grapevines, branches, and bark are just some of the natural items we have at our disposal to help us celebrate the winter season. More often than not, the simplest of things collected by my family from a walk in the woods create a more lasting and special memory. n

Winter 2021 Advertiser Index

www.twpusc.org/usctoday

Advanced Surgical Hospital ................................................................... 17 Affordable Decks & Additions ................................................................. 75 Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ...................................................................... 69 Ardolino’s ..................................................................................................9 Asbury Heights ...................................................................................... 60 Bactronix Corp. ....................................................................................... 71 Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh ................................................................. 23 * Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ... 3 * Brookside Lumber .................................................................................. 71 Burn Bootcamp–McMurray .................................................................... 17 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................... 71 Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh ................................... 23 Clubhouse Cards .................................................................................... 21 * Coldwell Banker Realty–Lynn Dempsey ................................................. 63 Coldwell Banker Realty–Dora Rudick ..................................................... 61 * Coldwell Banker Realty–South Hills Office ....................Outside back cover Cookie Cutters ........................................................................................ 53

* Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................ 53 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ...................................................................... 75 * Extended Day Services ........................................................................... 55 G’s Landscape & Supply LLC ................................................................... 71 G’s Window and Gutter Cleaning ........................................................... 75 George Girty Landscape Design ............................................................. 78 Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling ................................. 41 Hastings South Fayette–Charter Homes & Neighborhoods ......................2 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 55 * Howard Hanna–USC Office .............................................Inside front cover J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ....................... 37 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ..................................... 63 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ....................................................... 45 Lewis Music Studio ................................................................................ 25 * Manalo, Larry E., DMD ........................................................................... 45 Mister Sewer .......................................................................................... 39 Mt. Lebanon Awning .............................................................................. 75 * Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 19 Movement Mortgage–Kevin O’Laughlin ................................................ 61 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ........................................................... 45 * Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community ......................... 63 * Rusmur Floors ................................................................. Inside back cover * St. Clair Health ....................................................................................5, 79 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ................................................................9 * Sesame Inn ............................................................................................ 25 South Hills Endoscopy Center ...................................................................1

Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ...................................................7 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ...................................................... 61 The Dance Conservatory of Pittsburgh ................................................... 51 * Thomas Dance Studio ............................................................................ 55 Torrente Apartment Homes .................................................................... 69 Troy Orthodontics ................................................................................... 45 * Washington Health System ................................................................... 57 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ........................... 31 Welter, Julie, Realtor® ............................................................................ 51

Partnering with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY has been a great return on investment and a fantastic way for me to reach out to our community regarding what is happening in our local real estate market.—Dora Rudick, Coldwell Banker Realty

Let guide you in 2022 with great ad placement.

Spring guides include Celebration, Home Improvement, and Pet Care.

Place your ad in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our communityʼs go-to publication. Contact 412-833-1600, x2284.

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 54 issues. Thank you!

Look Ahead with Us