WINTER 2022 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Robbins Bobbitt

Broker

Bonnie Bagay

Susan Highley

Marie Mageras

Del Burrell

Diane Horvath

Kathy McCloskey

Brad Cetnarowski

Jess Hutchinson Renee Ringer

Kerrie Constantini

Frankie Kunselman

Shannon Rosenberry

Lauren Ganoe

Dana Logan

Jen Schalk

Janet Hensler

Chris Longenecker

Wendy Vespa

Suzy

Voss

Jody Yurcich

Izzy Zehner

Beth Thomas

The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine dedicated to promot ing the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year marks 28 years of our publication.

The 112 th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and vol unteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusi asm and efforts on this continuing project.

Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee

Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager

Paul K. Fox, School District Representative

Editors and Staff

Terry Kish, Editor-in-Chief

Anne Kopach, Associate Editor

Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager, Advertising Executive

Sarah Beitler, Marketing Executive, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Student Interns

Emily Barrie

Maanasa Reddy

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the maga zine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.

Subscription Information

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

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2023 issue and will be published in March 2023. 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@usctoday.org

Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Emily Barrie (intern & YWG), Jeanette Benedetto, Cindy Brophy, Lynn Dempsey, Lindsay Dill, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Christian Gmiter, Caryn Jooste, Becki Lewis, Jay Lynch, Cathy Manalo, Meridith Markovitz, Geoff & Christine McQueen, Felicia Musillo, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Maanasa Reddy (intern & YWG), Jim Render, Mary Lynne Spazok, and Tina Vojtko.

Thank you also to the Township’s wonderful Public Works Department employees and our awesome high school custodians! Their help in transporting our magazines and working with the facility needs of our TODAY staff is greatly appreciated.

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District, grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@usctoday.org to find out how your student can contribute.

The 112th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair.

Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed 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@usctoday.org

Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600

by Freeport

2127 Reiser Ave. SE, New Philadelphia, OH

by DMC

412-824-7844

Mark Mansfield

Paul Fox Terry Kish Anne Kopach Colleen DeMarco Sarah Beitler Kerry Turner Dorothy Clark

A Winter Note From the Publishers

Welcome to our Winter issue of USC TODAY! As the days get shorter and we spend more time indoors, it seems natural to reflect on the events of the past year and to look forward to the future.

2022 marked the return to many familiar activities, including Community Day, a variety of school and athletic events, and social gatherings. From the first day of school to Homecoming and Halls of Fame, it has been incredibly rewarding to see so many smiles on the faces of our community’s children, their families, and our USC alumni. We hope you’ll take time to view photos from these events and share in the joy.

As we reflect, we have much to be grateful for in our community. According to the Pittsburgh Business Times, the Upper St. Clair School District offers the best public education not just in the region, but in all of Pennsylvania. In this issue of TODAY, some of the students we recognize are our National Merit semi-finalists and commended students, and College Board and AP scholars. In addition to their academic and athletic successes, our students care about others; whether it’s at Freshmen Field Day or during one of the many outreach activities—the young people in Upper St. Clair want to make the world a better place.

If they gave out awards for best snow removal crews, Upper St. Clair’s public works department would take top honors. Learn what to do in winter storm emergencies, get tips on holiday safety, or discover something new at the library and C&RC as you read through the township section.

Don’t miss our bi-annual Residents Guide, a handy reference that provides a wealth of information about the township and school district. Also included in this issue are our Winter Festivities and Life Planning Guides—you may discover a new favorite business!

Join in a treasured Upper St. Clair tradition and greet Santa as he is escorted through the township on Saturday, December 10 by members of the USC Volunteer Fire Department. Keep the festivities going on Sunday, December 11 and be part of Light Up for Unity, an event sponsored by the USC Band Parents Association and the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. Get your neighbors together, light your luminaria, and turn on your holiday lights as we come together as a community to celebrate the winter holidays.

We wish you and your loved ones the very best as you enjoy this special time of year, and we look forward to sharing the activities and accomplishments of our residents in the New Year!

Sincerely, Township Manager

Sincerely, Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Matthew R. Serakowski

Personal.

Best.

What are you striving for today?

At St. Clair Health, our care teams are driven by a passion to provide world-class, patient-focused care to our neighbors in and around the Pittsburgh Region. That’s why we’ve recruited even more nationally recognized doctors and invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology to support them. So no matter how far you push yourself to achieve, you never have to go far to receive the personalized health care you deserve.

Edward J. Ruane, Jr., M.D.

When Upper St. Clair residents Veronica and Lou Guarino opened Louis Anthony Jewelers in 1990, their goal was to provide a luxury shopping experi ence for their customers, only available at that time in cities like New York and Los Angeles.

More than 32 years later, they have succeeded in creating an environment in which customers can shop, mingle, and enjoy the finest service and jewelry offerings in the world.

The original 900 square-foot neighborhood boutique relocated 20 years ago to its current 6,000 square-foot location. This spring, after a complete store renovation and expansion, Louis Anthony will unveil its brand new 9,000 square-foot premier shopping destination.

The project’s theme Louis Anthony Reimagined fea tures an enhanced customer experience that includes all new side-by-side selling showcases, environmen tally friendly LED lighting, a Louis Anthony Home department devoted to tabletop and fine collectibles, a bespoke Rolex watch boutique along with expanded watch collections, a David Yurman Shop-in-Shop, and a full-service hospitality bar.

The Louis Anthony family has always communi cated the welcoming sentiment of “mi casa, su casa.” Their store is an extension of their home. They strive for a unique takeaway for all customers, who will continue to be comfortably accommodated, even as project construction progresses.

While much has changed in retail over the years, one thing has remained the same: Louis Anthony’s unwavering commitment to creating the ultimate customer experience. That is what they do best. Stop in and find out why everyone is asking, “Have We Met…Yet?”

Louis Anthony Jewelers is located at 1775 North Highland Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. Call them at 412-854-0310 or visit their website at louisanthony.com.

A Lesson in Caring

Eisenhower teacher Cathryn Rodgers taught one year of kindergarten in 2010-2011. As an end of year gift, she gave her morning and afternoon kindergarten classes philodendron plants.

“I chose philodendrons because the leaves are in the shape of a heart,” explained Cathryn. “I tell the children they will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Now a second-grade teacher and in her 13th year at Eisenhower, Cathryn reports that she has given over two hundred plants to her students. She said, “My undergraduate degree is in horticulture, and I learned a little about horticulture therapy and its positive benefits. I thought giving the plant to my students could help foster responsibility and self-care.”

Twelve years later, as the class of 2023 is in their senior year, some students are still caring for their plants. Senior Phillip Markovitz commented, “To my young mind, the plant was merely something she wanted us to keep, not a metaphor for me as a person. Later in my life, though, I realized what she had meant. It takes time to grow a plant down to the floor, just likes it takes time for me to mature and grow as a person.”

Senior Max Bywalski said, “The plant taught me about memories. Memories last a lifetime, and the plant is a perfect representation of that.” Memories for some of the students included learning their left from their right, Fitness Friday, and Ms. Rodgers helping one of them after, well let’s say, an “accident”.

Both boys were surprised their plants survived this long and have their moms to thank for that. Phillip stated, “We always have our moms to put us right back on track with our lives and make sure we keep growing as a person, just as she did with the plant when it wasn’t looking so well.”

Unfortunately, Cathryn was not able to give plants to every one of her classes over the years, for various reasons. Cathryn said that when she hears about a student who is still caring for their plant, it makes her heart smile. She added, “It was my hope they would care for the plant as a reminder to care for themselves.”

Some of the students’ plants did not survive for reasons such as moves and changes in rou tine during Covid. But for many of these students, their friendship has grown over the years since meeting in kinder garten and now they care for one another. Cathryn’s message of caring has taken root in her students and flourished over the years. n

A note from Miss Rodgers

My goal for you is to care for this plant until you graduate high school. If you have it longer .... BONUS! I want you to care for this plant as a reminder you need to care for yourself too. With a little love and attention, this plant will grow, become stronger, and its beauty can be shared. Just like you will grow. You will grow smarter and stronger; and you too, can share your beauty ... your wisdom, kindness, and even a smile. Remember to take care of yourself to become the best you! You have a place in my heart and always will. I can’t wait to see what your future brings.

Love, Miss Rodgers

Cathryn Rodgers

Front (l/r): Baden Friday, Phillip Markovitz, Cathryn Rodgers, Max Bywalski. Back (l/r):Nico Amatangelo, Sahil Bhalodia, Marina Gzikowski, George Garces, Carter Chui, Kevin Wehrle

The key to a fulfilling retirement, other than budget and wellness, is positive energy. Though this novel chapter in life is often “To Be Determined,” attitude is instrumental as it relates to whether you live a life of passion and purpose, or one of regret and resentment. Yes, there is no place like home, relaxing with friends and families. However, engaging in contem porary activities—for example, volunteer service—heightens self-worth. When Laney “Happy Dog” joined Judy and Brian McGuire, her essence of unconditional love was their new chapter.

Retirement—a paramount milestone, a new chapter, a gateway of new opportuni ties. Four years ago, I first met Laney as a pup strolling with Brian. I came to learn that Brian’s post retirement goal was to train a therapy dog. What could be more natural? After all, Brian was dedicated to the Upper St. Clair Police Department for 34 years. Advocating for site conservancy, he supported Margaret Gilfillan’s home stead with boundless energy. Along the way, he met and married Judy, the love of his life. Today, purposeful outings along side Laney enrich their shared well-being and happiness.

What qualities make a good therapy dog? It must be friendly, patient, confi dent, gentle, and at ease in all situations. They must enjoy human contact whether touched or cuddled, at times clumsily. Well-trained in essential obedience, Laney easily adapts to startling noises, places, smells, equipment, and unfamiliar dogs.

Peaceful pooches alleviate stress and anxiety for children and adults. Laney is certified by Therapy Dogs International, and Judy and Brian are certified handlers,

Retirement—The TBD Chapter

Mary Lynne Spazok

as well. “Happy Dog” is an F1* Apricot Goldendoodle weighing 157 pounds. With a background in nutrition, Judy monitors Laney’s wellness. A balanced diet, vet visits, and oodles of exercise are routine. Laney’s favorite toys are any squeak toy (currently Mr. Bill) and treat-filled Kongs.

Brian explained, “Laney is neither an emotional support dog nor a service dog, both of which provide services only to their owner. A service dog is trained to assist a person with a disability not related to vision or hearing. An emotional support dog provides relief to a person with a di agnosed mental health condition through companionship. A therapy dog (by defini tion) is trained to play a role in a physical or emotional treatment plan of anyone.”

Beloved therapy dogs provide healing to a family, his or her companion, as well as in therapeutic settings—whether it be a hospital, school, or retirement community. Bestowing comfort, Laney accompanies Judy to Ralph Schugar Funeral Chapel. Other social outings include a bi-monthly

visit to the Sally and Howard Levin Clubhouse in Squirrel Hill, as well as the USC children’s library Paws for Reading program with librarian Colleen Miles. While this classification of pups has no official legal rights, keep in mind that laws governing animal access do vary from state to state. In any social situation, positive or not, informative, polite conversation regarding a therapy dog’s purpose is effec tive. Trained to be calm and hygienic, your companion—and you—will be welcome in more places than you might think!

If your future is TBD due to a recent void in your life, yearning for a new ven ture, or retirement, the McGuire team encourages readers to consider a compan ion pet to increase happiness, reduce stress, prioritize what’s important, and be resilient to setbacks. The spirited energy of Judy and Brian is their gift of effort, time, and talent. Partnered with therapy dog Laney, cuddles, tail-wagging, and enthusiasm is “Happy Dog,” love on a leash! n

*An F1 Goldendoodle denotes “first generation Goldendoodle.” The “F” stands for filial (Latin) which denotes family generation. The primary cross, one parent is purebred Golden Retriever and the other purebred Poodle.

Judy, Laney, and Brian

Brian McGuire

District Court 05-2-20

412-835-1661

Hiras Professional Building 2414

Park,

It’s easy to be cynical today; to see it, all we need to do is watch the news. I see crime, disputes, negativity, and despair in my courtroom every day. I think we all could use a little positivity in our lives.

That is why I want to reward those who demonstrate the good in our society. I want to honor people who strive to make our communities better. I will be presenting two Outstanding Citizens awards this coming winter—one will be for a Bethel Park resident and one for an Upper St. Clair resident.

I need your help in identifying those individuals who pos sess qualities that best exemplify an outstanding citizen. Please take this opportunity to nominate someone who you believe

Outstanding Citizens Award

best meets the criteria by using the nomination form below. For nominee consideration, a nomination form must be submitted by Friday December 9, 2022. I will read all entries and choose the two honorees, each being presented with a commemorative medal and certificate. We will also pay tribute to the recipients with a photo and an article about their accomplishments in a future edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, as well as on local channels, Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42.

Thank you, in advance, for your help in recognizing that person who you believe to be an outstanding citizen worthy of this consideration. n

Outstanding Citizens Award

Upper St. Clair,

Like

We all should be.

direct how we view topics and address

Remaining true to one’s values is a matter of personal strength, which is often tested by popular topics of the day. At times, our beliefs may not match with what is trending, and therefore, a disagreement is unavoidable. Perhaps even a conflict.

In recent times, unfortunately, we have witnessed conflicts between two opposing sides engaged in rhetoric and actions that lack decorum and civility. Whether it be nasty social media posts or refusing to speak with family members because of a heated political debate during the holidays, we can do better.

I had the honor of being elected to serve the 40th Legislative District just days after a gunman entered Squirrel Hill’s Tree of Life Synagogue during Sabbath prayer services and killed 11 worshipers. A few months later, I was invited by Rabbi Jeffery Myers, who was leading prayers just before the attack, to tour the synagogue.

As he discussed the harrowing events that day, I listened quietly. I will never forget when he reminded me that in my new position, what I say and how I say it will have impacts on our local commu nity. He then asked, that regardless of the topic, I speak and act with respect for others.

After witnessing firsthand one of the most horrific episodes in this region’s history, it would certainly be understandable if Rabbi Myers’ disposition was angry, even hateful. Who could blame him? I later read an article that highlights how he refuses to say the word “hate,”

only ever using the expression “the h-word.”

Applying Rabbi Myers’ position to ourselves is not difficult, in theory. It might require some restraint to act respectfully when encountering someone who is advocating for something that is in direct opposition to your viewpoint. But as Americans, we must ac knowledge that the genius of our constitutional right to freedom of speech is that it applies to everyone—even those who disagree with us.

But at an even higher level of citizenry, we should be engaging in discourse for the purpose of sharing ideas and eventually selling our opinion to someone who at first disagreed with us. If our purpose is only to get the last word in, we are likely to get the same response.

To achieve this, it is important to remember that showing respect for someone who disagrees with you in no way implies weakness for your position. In fact, it demonstrates that your position stands on its own merits and that you need not go on the attack.

When providing a point of opposition, I urge you to write, speak, or post about an idea or topic. Explain why something is a terrible idea, how it could be harmful, or against your ideas of how things should be. But don’t refer to the person sharing the idea as terrible. Using derogatory slurs to discuss a person is likely to draw offense from those people that you have not yet convinced.

Finally, practicing civility when it seems that others are screaming is not easy. Personally, I endeavor to never say something that I would not want said to my children or my grandmother, the people in my life with whom I want to display my strength, as well as my civility. n

Dr.

Mohammed Khan DDS, MD, USC Parent

Upper St. Clair to Host Light Up for Unity Night

For many years, the Upper St. Clair community has par ticipated in joining its neighbors in lighting luminaria during the winter holidays. This year, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair Band Parents Association are com ing together to host Light Up for Unity Night to celebrate our com munity and its differences. Regardless of what holiday we celebrate, there are two things we find in common: our hope for a more peaceful world and light to show us the way.

To participate, USC residents need only set out luminaria on

Sunday, December 11, at dusk. Community members are further encouraged to turn on their assembled holiday outdoor light displays to fully engage in this community-inspired opportunity. Luminaria kits can be purchased from all USCHS instrumen tal students, who will make and deliver the kits on Saturday, December 3. The kits can also be ordered online at www.uscbpa.org. The deadline to place an order is Wednesday, November 30.

In addition to selling single kits, kits are also being sold in bundles of two at a discounted price so that USC community members can participate in the community’s Light Up for Unity Night and also set out luminaria on another evening to celebrate their event or holiday of choice.

Many USC neighborhood associations are coordinating the sale of luminaria for their neighborhoods. If your neighborhood association

particular group is interested to participate, contact Lisa Geisler at fundraising@uscbpa.org.

Proceeds from the luminaria sale help support the music programs in our schools and benefit all instrumentalists at Upper St. Clair High School. n

Join your neighbors and other USC residents at dusk on Sunday, December 11 for Upper St. Clair’s annual Light Up for Unity Night.

Regardless of what holiday we celebrate, there are two things we find in common: our hope for a more peaceful world and light to show us the way.

Happy Holidays

Six Ways to Make Music Part of Your Holiday This Year

Becki Lewis, Owner, Lewis Music Studio

A certain song can bring up such vivid memories and a wide range of emo tions. During the holidays, music can bring up memories of childhood, Christmases past, loved ones who have passed, and time spent with those we love. Incorporating music into all your holiday traditions will make your holiday memorable and filled with peace and joy.

Musical traditions to make a part of your holiday celebrations:

1. The Nutcracker (and other musical performances)—My own holiday season would not be complete without the sweet strains of Tchaikovsky and the rhythmical adventures of Clara and her prince. Our area has several performances of the Nut cracker to choose from, but my favorite is the one at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library Music Hall in Carnegie.

2. Caroling—Get a group of friends and family together and sing along to holiday favorites or take to the neighborhood and share the music with your neighbors.

3. Musical gift giving—One of the Christmas gifts that I received as a teen

was an upgraded music stand that I still use to this day! Those musicians in your life always appreciate a musical instrument or accessory.

4. Make music—The best way to spread holiday cheer is singing loud for all to hear. —Buddy the Elf

It is true, there is nothing to bring joy like making your own music on these dark est days of the year. Whether you play an instrument or just sing for yourself, music making is a sure-fire way to bring some joy into your life.

5. Create your holiday playlist—The radio tends to focus a lot on Christmas music, so your own playlist is the perfect way to incorporate Chanukah music if you celebrate. A holiday playlist is a must have during the holiday decorating and baking season especially! No matter what your favorites are, you can include them.

6. Watch favorite holiday musi cals—White Christmas, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Eight Crazy Nights, and more. Curl up with a cozy blanket, some pop corn, and some family for a night of drama,

laughter, and music.

Whether you have traditions that go back decades, or you are forging new tradi tions this year, let music be a part of your holidays. n

See ad for Lewis Music Studio on this page.

Santa Claus is Coming to USC

On Saturday, December 10, Santa Claus will be making his special annual trip to Upper St. Clair Township escorted by the members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. Check the USC VFD website at uscvfd.com for a schedule of the approximate time Santa and his sleigh will be in your neighborhood. Listen for the sound of the sirens and wait at one of the street corners listed on the schedule. As always, Santa will have helpers from the fire department to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Take pictures of your friendly neighborhood Santa visit and post them on the fire department’s Facebook page. We encourage you to also email your photos (high resolution of at least 1MB each) to TODAY at usctoday@usctoday.org, listing “Santa visit” and your name in the subject line to help us identify who sent them. Your photos might appear in a future edition of our community’s magazine! n

Contact Santa Command at 412-835-3339 if you need further information about Santa’s route after visiting the website (uscsvd.com) for scheduled times.

Modern Magic: The Beauty and Wonder of Pearls

Amie Guarino, Louis Anthony Jewelers

Perhaps the most mystifying and purest of all gemstones is the pearl. Ancient folklore states that pearls represent love, money, protection, and luck. Symbolism aside, the natural beauty of a pearl is undeniable, almost a form of practical magic. Pearls make a great gift this holiday and are featured in an array of current designs that range from classic to trendy and everything in between.

Pearls form inside of a group of species referred to as mollusks. This group consists of mussels, oysters, and other types of shellfish. Pearls are one of few organic gems. Others include amber, coral, and jet. For a pearl to develop at a level that is commercially valuable, it takes at least three years! The process is a marvel of nature that man had been speculating about as far back as 1000 B.C. The inner layer of the shell is referred to as the nacre. When foreign substances enter the shell, the nacre sheds as a form of protection. The buildup of nacre results in a pearl.

Cultured pearls are a result of human assistance in the growth of a pearl. A tiny incision is made in the mollusk and a tiny bead or other type of matter is inserted. This then becomes the nucleus of the pearl. The shellfish are then submerged in water, and the process of nacreation begins. Most pearls are cultivated in Japan and China.

When shopping for pearls, there are many options to consider. South Sea are unadulterated, making them the finest in the world. Tahitian pearls range from silver to grayish in color and offer a something that is both exquisite and unique. Baroque pearls are irregular in shape and are often used in fashion forward styles like drop earrings and long necklaces. Colors in creamy white and pink tones are considered the most classic and desirable. Luster refers to the brightness of the light reflecting off the pearl. While size is a personal preference, it is important that each pearl is matched accordingly, allowing for a more uniform and elegant look.

Since pearls are a porous gem, it is important to protect them from hairspray, perfume, and lotions. Swimming and showering are not recommended while wearing pearls, and keeping them stored in a silk lined box or pouch away from other jewelry will keep them looking beautiful for years to come. n See the Louis Anthony Jewelers front cover and article on pages 10 and 11.

Jefferson High School Theater

Mark S. Mansfield Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration

Township Administration

Ed Poljak Director of Information Technology

Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski 2160 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield 2190 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton 2380 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito 2180 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development Ed Poljak Director of Information Technology George Kostelich, Jr. 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter 2470 Director of Library Paul Besterman 6560 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Other Services

Police Administration 412-833-1113

Tri-Community South EMS Administration 412-831-3710

USC Volunteer Fire Department Administration 412-835-0660

Animal Control 412-833-7500

Community & Recreation Center 412-221-1099

Cable 7 412-831-1030

Emergency–Police, Fire, EMS 412-833-7500

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Township of Upper St.

The Township of Upper St. Clair became a Home Rule Community on January 1, 1976. As a Home Rule Community, the Township is governed by a locally drafted charter adopted by the voters of the Township. The Home Rule Charter provides for a Board of Commissioners comprising seven members. Two commissioners are elected at large by all voters of the Township and five are elected by ward. In a commissioner/manager form of government, the charter provides a clear distinction between policy-making functions and administrative functions. The Board of Commissioners is responsible for the policy-making functions.

Township Manager

Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager

412-831-9000, ext. 2160

The Township Manager is appointed by the Board of Commissioners and is directly responsible and accountable to the Board. He serves as Chief Administrative Officer and is responsible for the administrative functions of the Township. The Township Manager and his designated rep resentatives, including Assistant Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield, are responsible for directing and supervising the operation of all Township departments; preparing an an nual budget and financial report; signing papers, contracts, obligations, and documents on behalf of the Township as required by law; preserving order in the Township; repre senting the Township to other governmental organizations and agencies; and providing staff assistance to the elected Board of Commissioners. The Township Manager oversees the activities of the following eight departments:

Department of Administration

Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager and Director of Administration

412-831-9000, ext. 2190

The Department of Administration is responsible for personnel administration, purchasing, labor relations and negotiations, public relations, community com munications and cable television franchising matters, office management, records maintenance and retrieval, in-service training programs, and coordination of grant applications.

Department of Planning and Community Development

Adam A. Benigni, Director of Planning and Community Development

412-831-9000, ext. 5010

The goal of the Department of Planning and Community Development is to protect the property values and residential character of the Township. Development of the community is guided by the Township Comprehensive Plan, which is prepared every ten years, most recently in 2015. This department administers and enforces land use codes and issues permits for zoning, building, electrical, fire protection, driveways, sewers, alarms, grading, and street openings. Additionally, the staff provides assistance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, and Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board.

Township Board of Commissioners

Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large

Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1

Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2

Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3

Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4

Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5

Richard I. Thomas, At Large

Department of Finance

Mark P. Romito, Director of Finance

412-831-9000, ext. 2180 • Tax Office: 412-831-9000, ext. 2260

The Department of Finance is responsible for all fiscal concerns of the Township, including budget preparation, expenditure con trol, financial reporting and projecting, insurance management, debit management, property and inventory control, purchasing, investment of funds, and operation of the Tax Office. The Township Tax Office collects taxes for both the Township and the School District. The Township budget is prepared each fall for the subsequent fiscal year, which runs from January 1 to December 31.

Department of Police

Jonathan Wharton, Chief of Police Emergency: 412-833-7500 Administration (non-emergency): 412-833-1113

The Police Department is responsible for ensuring public safety and for the enforcement of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the laws and ordinances of the Township. The 24-hour dispatch center coordinates all emergency services, including police, fire, and emergency medical services (ambulance). The Police Department pro vides patrol squads dedicated to neighborhood and business patrols, vacation home checks, criminal investigations, fingerprint services, and more. The Police Department also sponsors a Citizens’ Police Academy each fall.

Department of Information Technology

Ed Poljak, Director of Information Technology 412-831-9000

The Department of Information Technology is responsible for the computer needs of all Township departments. The Township’s website (twpusc.org) provides residents with agendas and meeting minutes; downloadable applications and permits; trash and recycling information; calendars providing Township, school, and community events; bi-annual recreation booklets; UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine; board and commission information; and public access television broadcasting.

Public Access Television 412-831-1030

Upper St. Clair Public Access Television, under the Department of Information Technology, provides an opportunity to share information and events with Township residents. Programs are produced by volunteers using equipment that can be provided by the channel. Programming is shown on Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42. Programs are also available from the Township’s video gallery, twpusc.org/video-gallery.

Municipal Building

R

S I D E N T I A L G U

There is also the community bulle tin board Video Newspaper. It displays information and meeting announcements for a variety of Township activities, community groups, and churches. An nouncements should be submitted by email to USCCABLE@twpusc.org.

Training and access to production equip ment can be provided to those interested in producing a program for the community. Call the Public Access Television number to promote an event or organization and its activities.

Department of Recreation and Leisure Services

Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services

412-221-1099, ext. 6560

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is responsible for recreation programming and activities for residents of all ages. A program booklet is published twice a year, in April (spring/summer programs) and September (fall/winter programs), and delivered to all residents. The booklet can also be viewed online at twpusc.org. Registration for various programs can be conducted by mail, online, or in person during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can also contact the Recreation office to reserve Township facilities, including the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) and the Community and Recreation Center (C&RC) for parties, special events, and meeting rooms, or check on the availability of Township fields. The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is located at the C&RC at Boyce Mayview Park, 1551 Mayview Road.

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services also offers a senior citizens program (United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair), which provides Wednesday lun cheons and programs for all residents 55 years of age and older.

Department of Library Chris Gmiter, Director of Library 412-835-5540, ext. 2240

The Upper St. Clair Township Library is located on the second and third floors of the Township Municipal Building. Visit the library’s website at twpusc. org/library for hours of operation. The library collection of approximately 70,000 circulating items includes books, audio books, music, and movies for all ages. The kids’ department of the library also lends puzzles and has a “Play to Learn” area filled with educational toys to foster math and literacy skills as well as eye-hand coordination and imagination. An “Explore to Learn” center features STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities appropriate for elementary school children. Online resources include e-books, downloadable audio and video, and online databases. As a member of the Allegheny County eiNetwork, the library participates in the shared County Catalog, which library patrons can access from the website. Requested materials can be sent from and picked up at any public library in Allegheny County. The library has computer workstations with high-speed Internet access and Microsoft office software and also provides free wireless access for laptop users. The library offers 3D printing for a small fee. A variety of programs and classes, listed on the library website (twpusc.org) are offered throughout the year for both children and adults. Use materials and share services with others during programs and classes, and con nect to a world of information. Use, share, and connect at the Upper St. Clair Township Library, your community resources center. Check out the library on Facebook and Twitter. (For more information, see pages 32 35.)

Department of Public Works

George Kostelich, Jr., Director of Public Works 412-831-9000, ext. 2710

The Public Works Department is responsible for the management and supervision of all activities relating to streets, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, trash collection, recycling, leaf and yard waste collections, parks and recreation facility maintenance, building and grounds maintenance, and forestry. An annual trash and recycling schedule is mailed to resi dents at the end of each calendar year for the coming year. The schedule is also available on the Township’s website (twpusc.org).

USC’s Recreational Facility

Community & Recreation Center (C&RC)

1551 Mayview Road • 412-221-1099

Located in the active area of Boyce Mayview Park, the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) offers indoor/ outdoor aquatics, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group fitness rooms, 1/8 mile running/walking track, two fullsize basketball courts, and rentable community rooms. In addition, throughout the year the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers programs to improve the quality of life for residents of all ages—pre-schoolers to seniors and all ages in between. (See program and offerings information on pages 28 29)

Accessibility Coordinators

The Township of Upper St. Clair has five accessibility coordinators to further enhance all visitors’ access to Township facilities, parks, trails, and programs. The accessibility link is found on the Township’s homepage under Quick Links and will take the visitor to detailed acces sibility information.

Currently, the Township of Upper St. Clair’s accessibility coordinators are

• Jeremy Lemley, Buildings/Grounds Administrator (for all Township buildings): 412-831-9000, ext. 2710

• Ed Poljak, (for Township website and phone system): 412-831-9000

• Christian Gmiter, Director of Library: 412-835-5540, ext. 2240

• Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator: 412-831-9000, ext. 2710

• Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services (for all recreation activities): 412-221-1099, ext. 6560

Public Works

Other Services in the Township

Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services Emergency: 412-833-7500 Office (non-emergency): 412-831-3710

Upper St. Clair Township participates in a jointly-operated emergency medical services program with the Township of South Park and the Municipality of Bethel Park. This program provides emergency ambulance transport by highly trained and state-licensed medical personnel. Each fall, an annual subscrip tion drive is held. For a nominal fee, the entire household and household visitors are provided with emergency ambulance coverage when emergency transport is needed.

The Township participates in a joint animal control program with neighboring communities. Officers are on duty seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with 24-hour emergency service. Clair’s Kennel, along McLaughlin Run Road, provides a temporary home for wandering pets. Residents should call the police department for animal control services, including animals running at large, injured or killed animals, and animal nuisance calls.

Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department

Emergency: 412-833-7500

Office (non-emergency): 412-835-0660

Since 1939, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department has been responsible for fire protection, rescue service, and other emergency assistance for the Township. The primary fire station along Route 19 provides an efficient and safe building for preparing and responding to emergency events. The USC VFD also answers calls for hazardous materials incidents, vehicle rescue, and mutual aid assistance to fire departments in surrounding communities. In addition, the USC VFD conducts an extensive fire preven tion program, including fire safety talks in the schools, tours of the fire stations, and fire extinguisher training for local businesses.

Each May, a letter is sent to residents and businesses asking for donations. The USC VFD does not solicit funds by telephone. Please support this invaluable all-volunteer service.

Tri-Community South does not receive direct subsi dies from the Township, nor does it receive any revenue from the Local Services Tax, formerly the Emergency and Municipal Services Tax.

Appointed Boards and Commissions of Upper St. Clair

In addition to the elected Board of Commissioners, Upper St. Clair residents comprise appointed boards and commissions. Residents wishing to serve on a board or commission should submit a Talent Bank form that is available from the Township Manager’s Office or download the form from the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org). In the event of a vacancy, the Talent Bank forms identify residents interested in volunteering their time and expertise.

The following persons, listed alphabetically and with their respective December 31 year of expiration, are citizens who currently serve on Township boards or commissions.

Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board

Glenn Avick, Vice Chair 2022

Denis C. Flaherty 2022

Michael P. McDonnell, Chair 2022

David J. McLean 2023

Anthony L. Pitassi 2024

Robert T. Stevens Jr. 2023

Civil Service Board

Neal Holmes, Secretary 2024

P.J. Murray, Chair 2022 Shon Worner 2023

Library Board

Joann Hockenberry 2024

Robert G. Ontolchik 2022

Barbara Zimmt 2023

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

Kelly B. Bakayza 2023

Ryan Buries 2024

William O. Barnard 2023

Jason Graves, Vice Chair 2024 Roger Hartung, Chair 2023 Diane Morris 2023

Matthew Weaver 2024

Planning Commission

Jeffrey Krantz 2025

Yvonne Piecknick 2023

Jake Polochak, Chair 2022

David Sirota, Secretary 2024

Robin Weissert, Vice Chair 2025 David Wade 2022

Zoning Hearing Board

Anderson T. Bailey, Vice Chair 2024 Dwight D. Ferguson, Chair 2022 Steven Gibbs 2022

Justin W. Hollingsworth 2023 Gregg R. Zegarelli 2023

Clair’s Kennel

Tri-Community South EMS

USC Volunteer Fire Department

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings

July 5, 2022

Approximately 11 people attended.

Recognition

• Commissioner Burlingame presented a Certificate of Achievement to Dani Prunzik for her 1st place win at the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) Championship in the 100-yard dash.

The Board

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0005—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on August 1, 2022.

Approval of Contracts

• G & G Fitness

Williamsville, NY

C&RC Fitness Equipment Replacement

(4)

(2)

$56,605.60

Fitness Integrity D Treadmills and

Fitness Integrity Cross Trainers

• LM&R Excavating LLC

Hookstown, PA

Morton Complex Perimeter Trail Phase II-B Part 2

July 25, 2022

Approximately 3 people attended.

The Board

• Voted to Suspend a Provision in the Township Code, Section 19.6.2, which limits the Board’s ability to proceed with business other than routine actions at a meeting other than the Regular Meeting

• Approved Resolution No. 1722 authorizing the Township of Upper St. Clair to formally request a grant for funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Multimodal Transportation Fund for Pedestrian Crossing Safety Improvements

August 1, 2022

Approximately 3 people attended.

The Board

• Tabled the Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0005—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to the Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting on September 6, 2022.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1723 Re. 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Program.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1724 authorizing the Township to enter into a multi-year Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for Comprehensive Road Maintenance.

Approval of Contracts

• Cargill, Inc. $88.96 per ton North Olmstead, OH 2022-2023 Rock Salt with two option years

• C. Crump, Inc. $178,400 Hubbard, OH Ravine Park Stream Restoration Project

Roundabout Complete

September 6, 2022

Approximately 14 people attended.

The Board

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC22-0005—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Approved Bill No. 7-22 Re. PLC22-0005—Maggie’s Farm Distillery—Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1725 Re. Establish Public Hearing Re. PLC22-1301—Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code entitled “Zoning” to add standards and criteria for Distilleries and Breweries in the RM—Restricted Light Industrial District and to add Landscaping Requirements for Private Recreational Structures in the R1—Single Family Residential District on November 7, 2022.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1726 authorizing the Township to enter into a multi-year Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for Winter Maintenance.

• Tabled Resolution No. 1727 approving the Organization Assessment and Strategy Recommendations for the Township of Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department to the Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners on October 3, 2022.

At the end of August, the roundabout at the intersection of McLaughlin Run Road/Lesnett Road and McMillan Road opened. The opening is the culmina tion of the nearly two-year long construction project that included the replacement of two bridge structures, stormwater and sanitary sewer infrastructure improve ments, sidewalk and ADA curb ramp installation, and lighting upgrades.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts can signifi cantly improve safety, promote lower speeds and traffic calming, reduce conflict points, and lead to improved operational performance. n

Dani Prunzik with Commissioner Todd Burlingame

2022-2023 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection

Holiday Collection Date

Thanksgiving .... Friday, November 25, for regular Thursday collection.

Christmas Thursday, December 29, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, December 30, for regular Thursday collection.

New Year Thursday, January 5, for regular Wednesday collection and Friday, January 6, for regular Thursday collection.

Township of Upper St. Clair’s Christmas Tree Recycling Project

December 26, 2022–January 31, 2023

Discarded live trees will be ground for mulch for resi dents’ use. Please remove all lights, decorations, and plastic tree bags!

Tree drop off will be at the empty lot across from the Public Works Building on Truxton Drive. Check the township website at twpusc.org, view Cable 7, or call 412-831-9000, ext. 2710, if you need more information.

2022 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place on Saturday, November 19, and Saturday, December 3.

Attention Dog Owners

Pennsylvania law requires owners to obtain dog licenses in January of each year. Viola tions can result in fines of up to $300 per day. To be in compliance with this law, dog owners must obtain the Allegheny County License by January 1 of each year.

The Allegheny County applica tion is available at:

• The Upper St. Clair Police Department

• The Upper St. Clair Township Reception Desk

• Online at county.allegheny.pa.us/treasure/dog.aspx

The Upper St. Clair license, which should be obtained in January of each year, is a “Pet License.” Chapter 41 of the Township Code defines a pet as “any dog, cat, or other domesticated animal kept for pleasure rather than utility.”

The Upper St. Clair license application is available at:

• The Upper St. Clair Township reception desk

• Online (PDF) at twpusc.org

There is no charge for the Upper St. Clair license, but proof of rabies vaccination is required.

Deer Management Update

Upper St. Clair Township continues its partnership with Whitetail Management Associates and contracts 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 all-time high number of reported deer-vehicle collisions (207). The township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts, and last year the total number of accidents involving deer was 62. The deer population in some areas of the township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in 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 is fortunate to have residents assist in its 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 township personnel at 412-831-9000.

Pickleball (All levels)

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 1:30–4 p.m.

Pick-up Volleyball

Monday, 7–8:45 p.m.

Pick-up Basketball Wednesday, 7–8:45 p.m.

The World Needs More Lifeguards

Lifeguarding is a re warding job that gives back to the community.

American Red Cross certification classes are held at the C&RC yearround. Classes are open to all interested participants 15 years of age and older. Please visit our web site at twpusc.org/recreationcenter to view all class prerequisites and regis ter for an upcoming class.

January 6–8, 2023

Friday, January 6, 4–9 p.m.

Saturday, January 7, 1–8 p.m. Sunday, January 8, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Already certified? Apply to be a C&RC lifeguard!

Enjoy a flexible schedule, safe and clean work environment, access to facility amenities, and certifica tion reimbursement. Apply today at twpusc.org/employment.

Save the Date

Community Blood Drive

at the Community & Recreation Center

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Noon–6 p.m.

Vitalant will be at the C&RC on Tuesday, December 13 from noon–6 p.m. accepting blood donations. Interested donors can sign up for an appointment at vitalant.org using group code C565.

the C&RC has a great opportunity for

members, and non-members.

Stay Active this Holiday Season

Gratitude 5K Saturday, November 19, 2022 10 a.m.

Join us as we celebrate the season of giving and gratitude by participating in our 3 rd annual Gratitude 5K Race/Walk through Boyce Mayview Park.

Registration includes a finish ers medal, race bag, bib number, and pre-race training packet with nutrition tips and race apps to help you train for race day! This 5K is perfect for runners of all levels.

Visit our website to register: twpusc.org/ recreationcenter

Thanksgiving Spin-A-Thon Friday, November 25, 2022

Burn off those extra Thanksgiving calo ries and contribute to a good cause. Class is free with the donation of three nonperishable food items due upon registration.

Jingle Jam

Saturday, December 3, 2022

Dance your way through the holiday season with this festive dance cardio class. Class is free with the donation of three nonperishable food items due upon registration.

Coming Om for the Holiday’s Sunday, December 4, 2022

Nothing brings on stress quite like the holiday season, so take a moment to add some relaxation to your wish list. This yoga-inspired class is free with the donation of three nonperishable food items due upon registration.

Merry Mix

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Participants will get a variety of classes all packed into one great workout. Class is free with the donation of three non-perishable food items due upon registration.

Winter Camp

December 26–30, 2022

Your favorite counselors from Camp St. Clair will keep the kids active and engaged this winter break! Children with enjoy so cializing, crafting, and playing games with their peers and recreation staff.

Additional details will be available on our website soon.

Community & Recreation Center Holiday Hours*

Thursday, November

Saturday, December 24, 2022 (Christmas Eve): 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Sunday, December 25, 2022 (Christmas): Closed Saturday, December 31, 2022 (New Year’s Eve): 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Sunday, January 1, 2023 (New Year’s Day): Closed *The

administra tion

building hours listed above.

Leisure

Upper St. Clair Different Strokes Tennis League

Upper St. Clair Different Strokes Tennis League is a nonprofit resident group run by a committee of volunteers with the assistance of the USC recreation depart ment. Our purpose is to organize sessions of tennis for Upper St Clair residents of all abilities to play with a variety of partners and opponents of similar level. There are four (4) sign-up sessions per year:

• A 14-week fall indoor session from

October through mid- January (USC court fees).

• A 14-week winter indoor session from mid-January through mid-April (USC court fees).

• A spring outdoor session until the end of June (USC season permit required).

• A summer outdoor session until the bubbles go up in October (USC season permit required).

All sessions include weekday mornings and evenings for women’s doubles, as well as weekday evenings and weekend day times for men’s doubles. Mixed doubles or men’s and women’s singles games can also be set up if there is enough demand.

Cost of joining our league is $10 for in dividuals and $16 per couple. If interested, please contact Gina Braun at 412-221-5717 or Gibra5@aol.com. Join anytime!

delicious meal.

In addition, various outings are sched uled throughout the year. Meetings are usually held at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Road.

Fitness and Aquatics Classes

United Senior Citizens Program

The United Senior Citizens program is sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair Department of Recreation & Leisure Services. To participate, one must be a resident of the township, 55 years of age or older, and retired. Spouses of eligible mem bers may also join even if under age 55.

The program meets on most Wednesdays. Morning activities are informal and include

USC Township Silver Card

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

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

the preparation of lunch with the help of volunteers from the group under township supervision. Informal activities begin at 10 a.m. and the members hold a brief business meeting at noon, which is followed by a

The Community & Recreation Fitness and Aquatics departments offer classes either designed for or that accommodate senior participants. For additional information about any Older Adult programming, please contact the Community Programs Department at 412-221-1099.

USCSD Gold Card

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

To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road.

For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Applications for the Pittsburgh Regional Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card and the

Plus

Service are available at the C&RC.

must be made in person at the C&RC during business hours, Monday–Friday.

of age (65) is required at the time of application.

Police Department News

The police department con gratulates Officer TJ Fahey on his retirement after 36 years of dedicated service to the residents of Upper St. Clair.

Officer Fahey began his career as a patrol officer in 1987. Over the years, TJ became well known by members of the residential commu nities, schools, and retirement communities. The hundreds of relationships he established throughout his career reflect the importance he placed on both his duties and the members of this township. TJ has been a great asset to the police department and will be missed by his fellow officers and the community alike.

We wish TJ every success in his retirement and hope the days ahead are filled with joy and relaxation.

Strategic Plan for USC VFD Approved

The Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting on October 3, 2022 took action to unanimously approve a strategic plan for the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. The stra tegic planning process commenced in October 2020 when the leadership of the volunteer fire department and township agreed that an outside assessment to provide recommendations and guid ance for improvements along with new initiatives would be helpful in charting a sustainable path forward for the organization.

The study, conducted by Robb Consulting, incorporated document review, operational assessment, and one-on-one and group in terviews with the fire department personnel, township staff, the Board of Commissioners, and general public. Following a nearly two-year process, the report was released with 11 recommendations to provide a stronger, more resilient model for volunteer fire service delivery for the township. Immediate areas of focus involve initiating revisions to the township code with respect to the department of fire protection, commence the process to establish and fill the position of township fire chief, and work with the volunteer fire department leadership to assist with the revision and restructuring of their bylaws as set forth within the report.

In addition to the strategic plan approval, the Board authorized establish ing the Ad Hoc Strategic Assessment Implementation Advisory Committee made up of representatives from the Board of Commissioners, the fire de partment, and the township staff to assist in supporting the implementation of the plan’s objectives. The expectation is for the Ad Hoc committee to convene in the near term.

The Board of Commissioners wishes to thank the partnership and partici pation of the volunteer fire department leadership and members, township staff, and public throughout this multi-year process. Anyone wishing to review the approved fire department strategic plan, Organization Assessment and Strategy Recommendations for the Upper St. Clair Fire Department, may go to the Township web site at twpusc.org/news_detail_T41_R753.php. n

New Hire

Ann Meyer joined the police department as the administrative assistant in July of 2022. Ann previously worked for the Inspector General of the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commission for nearly 14 years and brings with her valu able experience pertaining to government administrative services. We are excited for Ann to be a member of our department—welcome, Ann!

Clear a Path to the Hydrant

As winter inevitability approaches and snow starts becoming a daily part of the forecast, please take note if you or your neighbor have a fire hydrant on your property. After a large snow fall, or after con tinuous snow accumulation, fire hydrants can become partially or even completely covered with snow and ice. Snowplows can often drift snow over a fire hydrant, causing additional time on the fire scene to find the hydrant and clear away the snow. In an emergency, every minute mat ters. Being able to clearly identify and operate a fire hydrant is key to being able to deliver a fast and effective water supply.

After clearing off your driveway and sidewalk, take a moment to clear the area around your fire hydrant, too. The USC Volunteer Fire Department relies upon good Samaritans to keep the hundreds of fire hydrants in the community free of snow. The USC VFD requests that snow and ice be removed in a 3-foot diameter around the fire hydrant. This allows responding units quick and easy access to the fire hydrant and to have room to properly work. Firefighters need to access the hydrant to attach both the large diameter hose to supply the engine with water and also have enough room to open the fire hydrant. All snow and ice should be removed in a clear path to the road as well. n

If you are unable to physically clear the snow, contact the USC VFD chief Mike Moore at 412–835–0660 and we will send a volunteer to clear the fire hydrant.Direct questions about the USC VFD Strategic Plan to the Township Manager’s Office at 412–831–9000, ext. 2160.

Retirement

Officer TJ Fahey

Ann Meyer

INSURANCE PROGRAMS

A couple of years ago, there were many flood victims throughout Allegheny County. Many of these victims sought help, but most homeowners, business owners, and renters did not have flood insurance. Private coverage can be unreliable and expensive. A great option for flood victims seeking help is the National Flood Insurance Programs (NFIP).

The federal government offers the NFIP, which is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). NFIP aims to reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures. This program enables homeowners, business owners, and renters in participating communities who are in both high-risk and moderate-to-low risk areas to purchase federally-backed flood insurance. The program reduces the socioeconomic impact of disasters by promoting the purchase and retention of general risk insurance, but, more specifically, flood insurance. Upper St. Clair participates in this program. For a list of other participating communities, visit fema.gov/cis/PA.html.

The NFIP covers direct physical damage by flood to your building and/or personal property. The following is a summary of what is covered and not covered under these programs (view the FEMA website or contact your insurance company for complete policy information).

Covered Building Property:

• Plumbing systems

• Furnaces and water heaters

• Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances, such as dishwashers

• Permanently installed carpeting over an unfinished floor

• Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases, and cabinets. The damage must be directly caused by flood water. Cabinets that were not damaged by flood water are not covered, even if they match cabinets that were damaged by flood water.

• Window blinds

• A detached garage, used for limited storage or parking. Up to ten percent of the building coverage limit can be used, but will reduce the total amount of building coverage available.

Covered Personal Property Contents:

• Personal belongings, including clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment

• Curtains

• Portable and window air conditioners (easily moved or relocated)

• Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers

• Carpets not included in building coverage (carpet installed over wood floors, etc.)

• Clothing washers and dryers

• Certain valuable items, including original artwork and furs (up to $2500)

• Food freezers (other than walk-ins), including the food in them

Not Covered for Building or Personal Property:

• Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner or which is not attributable to the flood

• Damage caused by earth movement, even if the earth movement is caused by the flood

• Additional living expenses, including temporary housing, while the building is being repaired or is unable to be occupied

• Loss of use or access of the insured property

• Financial losses caused by business interruption

• Property and belongings outside of an insured building, including trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools

• Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers, such as stock certificates

• Most self-propelled vehicles, including cars and their parts

Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor:

Flood insurance coverage is

limited to areas below the lowest elevated floor, including crawlspaces, depending on the flood zone and date of construction and in basements regardless of zone or date of construction. This includes:

• Basements

• Crawlspaces under an elevated building

• Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-store foundation walls (sometimes referred to as “walkout basements”)

• Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings

Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Covered Building Property:

• Foundation walls, anchorage systems, and staircases attached to the building

• Central air conditioners

• Cisterns and the water in them

• Drywall for walls and ceilings (in basement only)

• Non-flammable insulation (in basement only)

• Electrical outlets, switches, and circuit-breaker boxes

• Fuel tanks and the fuel in them, solar energy equipment, and well water tanks and pumps

• Furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, and sump pumps

Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Covered Personal Property:

• Washers and dryers

• Food freezers and the food in them, but not refrigerators

• Portable and window air conditioners

Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Not Covered Under Building or Personal Property:

• Paneling, bookcases, and window treatments, including curtains and blinds

• Carpeting, area carpets, and other floor coverings, such as tile

• Drywall for walls and ceilings (below the lowest elevated floor)

• Walls and ceilings not made of drywall

• In certain cases, staircases and elevators

• Most personal property, such as clothing, electronic equipment, kitchen supplies, and furniture

NFIP Contact Information

Website: fema.gov/flood-insurance

Phone: 800-621-FEMA / 800-427-4661

Email: floodsmart@fema.dhs.gov

This summary is intended for informational purposes only and is not a complete description of the NFIP. Visit the FEMA website and contact your insurance company for complete information before purchasing a policy. A list of private insur ance companies that sell the NFIP can be found at agents. floodsmart.gov/write-policy/resources. If your agent does not sell NFIP, contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661. n

From the Director’s Desk

Christian Gmiter, Library Director

Curating a Collection that Educates, Entertains, and Expands Your World

Recently, a patron stopped by the checkout desk to ask how our library professionals decide which books to buy. It’s a good question with an answer that involves a multi-step process and a goal to ensure our library meshes with the community it serves, including:

• Providing popular materials of current social and cultural interest for recreational purposes.

• Offering informational resources on topics related to work, school, and personal life.

• Being a center for life-long learning.

• Assisting and supporting literacy for all ages.

• Helping patrons understand and use library technology, such as our popular Libby and Hoopla apps.

To meet our collection goal, our library professionals work to create a collection of items that reflects diversity of ideas and authors — and is representative of our USC population. For example, the most popular genres of fiction in USC are “Mystery” and “Thriller,” so you’ll find more of these books on our shelves than books of other genres.

When choosing books, we also:

• Consider demographics, such as age and education level.

• Examine what’s popular, relevant, considered a “classic,” and are award winners.

• Assess what best conveys a range of human experience, not only in our township and city, but also throughout the U.S. and world.

• Evaluate how a new item fits into our existing collection and relates to similar material on the same subject both in our library and the county.

• Pay attention to book, movie, and music critics and re viewers, especially in trade publications, such as Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and the Library Journal.

• Consider an author’s reputation and significance.

• Take your suggestions to heart.

And of course, we do all of this within the parameters of our annual budget.

We’re happy to work hard on your behalf to give you a library that meets your needs, including offering what’s popu lar, what’s local, what’s global, what’s educational, what’s requested, and what’s enlightening. Stop by soon and peruse a collection of books, movies, music, and more curated with you in mind.

Until next time, Chris

Kids Library

This summer was unlike any previous summer at Upper St. Clair Township Library. With a bit of ingenuity, the kids library was able to put on some great in-person activity times in addition to the ZOOM programs offered weekly. Check out some of the fun below!

Library staff put up weekly story strolls at Boyce Mayview Park. Each book was centered around an ocean topic to go along with the 2022 Oceans of Possibilities summer reading theme. Themed story strolls will continue during the fall and spring.

Miss Sheri developed a variety of code hunts through nearby Wiltshire Park. Children of all ages were able to use their skills to decode messages she left out for them.

Members of the Pittsburgh Chinese Association Youth Center presented books donated by Upper St. Clair families as part of their Asian American Pacific Islander Book Drive.

Both Miss Colleen and Miss Sheri began monthly visits to the playroom at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park. These visits will continue throughout the year.

Miss Colleen visited the Aquatics Department of the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park for some summer fun story times.

Kids Library

Miss Colleen and Miss Sheri made weekly outreach visits to Camp St. Clair. Campers were able to enjoy a story and activity from the library.

During July, a

of

to children during Make a Mess at Municipal Park Messy Art.

During Make a Mess at Municipal Park Messy STEM, children were able to experiment with

and more.

Adult Programs

Calligraphy Class with Rivers of Steel (In-Person Event)

Saturday, November 19, 2022, 1–4 p.m.

Try-It Tuesday: Decoupaged DVD/CD (In-Person Event)

Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 11:30 a.m.–1p.m.

Try-It Tuesday, with local artist Judé Ernest, is a regular monthly USC Library Adult in-person art program. Each Try-It program is Make-It and Take-It and is specially de veloped to provide an introduction and the fundamentals for creating a variety of crafts.

Try-It Tuesday: Glass Refrigerator Magnets (In-Person Event)

Tuesday, January 10, 2023, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join Rivers of Steel artist, Ben Aysan, for a Calligraphy workshop where he will introduce attendees to the “rules” of letter ing and demonstrate his handwriting and graphical techniques. Learn to push your pen to its full potential at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center. Limited to 10 partici pants. There is a supply fee of $10 for this program. Please pay at the library before you are considered fully registered.

Ben has created works for Governor Tom Wolf and taught with organizations like Erie Arts and Culture and Rivers of Steel.

Estate Planning with an Elder Law Focus (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, November 30, 2022, 6–7 p.m.

This month we will do decoupaged DVD/CD and learn the art of surface deco rating on DVD/CDs using paper, tissue, and glue. You will learn how to prepare your surface, select materials and what glues to use. Registration required. Lim ited to 15 participants. If you are unable to make it, please cancel ahead of time to allow for more participants. This event will be held at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center down the street from the library. A $5 donation is suggested.

Holiday Cookie Decorating Class with Sarah Wray (In-Person Event)

Wednesday, December 14, 2022, 6:30–8 p.m.

This month we will do glass refrigera tor magnets. These easy decorative photo magnets are so simple to make, use and gift. The techniques you will learn are the basis for all sorts of magnetic creations. Limited to 15 participants. A $5 donation is suggested.

Allegheny Parks presents: The History of South Park (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, January 11, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Join attorney Christine Brown Murphy for a discussion of the essential estate plan ning documents to have in place as you age. Also, to be discussed are the important considerations when planning to pay for long term care.

Write Your Book! (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, December 7, 2022, 6–7 p.m.

Join Hank Walshak, president of Walshak Communications, Inc. for a class on how to write your book! Learn a sixstep method that makes writing simpler than you could imagine and gives you the motivation you need to start writing and finish your book. In the process, you’ll become the successful author you were meant to be.

Join Sarah Wray for a fun-filled holiday cookie decorating demo at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center. Come spend an evening learning how to decorate fancy holiday cookies with royal icing. Each participant will receive a dozen cookies, decorating sup plies, and a step-by-step instruction along the way. Grab a friend, significant other, family member, or just come by yourself to this fun hands-on evening! Limited to 12 participants. There is a $10 supply fee to be paid at the library before you are considered fully registered for this class.

USC Mental Health Series: Depression (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, January 4, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Join St. Clair Health for our new series on mental health. In this program we’ll discuss depression, the symptoms and diagnosis of different depressive disorders, as well as various treatments for these conditions.

Discover the history of the Allegheny County parks. Learn about South Park history and discover fas cinating insights into the Oliver Miller Homestead in South Park and how it played a part in the famous Whiskey Rebellion.

Credit with the Financial Empowerment Center (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, January 18, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

The end of the student loan forgiveness program is at hand. How prepared do you feel to take up those payments again? Join the Pittsburgh Financial Empowerment Center for a discussion about how to best budget your money to help you tackle all your expenses.

The Pittsburgh Financial Empowerment Center offers professional financial coun seling as a free public service. We help clients build their savings, establish, and improve their credit, take control of their debt, connect to safe and affordable financial products, and provide you with the tools and resources to achieve your financial goals.

Cooking with Kathy: Beef Stew in the InstantPot (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, January 25, 2023, 6:30–8 p.m.

Do you have a recent or not-so-recent gift of an InstantPot that is getting dusty from lack of use? Join Kathy Wolper for a

Adult Programs

demo of the features and benefits of the IP as she demonstrates how to make beef stew.

Try-It Tuesday: Scratch Off Art (In-Person Event)

Tuesday, February 14, 2023, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Tuskegee Airman with Glenn Flickinger (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 6:30–8 p.m.

Kick off Black History Month with the Upper Saint Clair Township Library. Join historian and veterans breakfast club host Glenn Flickinger for a pro gram on the history of the Tuskegee Airman through the story of one its youngest pilots: Colonel Harry Stuart. Learn all about this combat fighter pilot, Top Gun pilot and Distinguished Flying Cross recipient in this informative and fun presentation.

Winter Birds: Bald Eagles with the Audubon Society of Western PA (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, February 8, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Join the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania for an informative program on the Bald Eagle, the avian representa tion of the United States. Learn about their ecology, de cline, restoration and triumphant re turn, and our very own Hays Bald Eagle camera.

USC Mental Health Series: Anxiety and OCD (Zoom Event)

Thursday, February 9, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Join St. Clair Health’s mental health social worker, Alison Mazefsky for a dis cussion on anxiety. Alison will speak about the symptoms and effective treatments, the differences in day-to-day anxiety versus anxiety disorders, and ways of coping with heightened anxiety.

This month we will do scratch off art. You will learn how to use a sharp tool to en grave and expose a hidden surface message and create your scratch art masterpiece. Use crayons, oil pastels and acrylic paint to create a custom scratchboard or scratch off tags. Limited to 15 participants. A $5 donation is suggested.

Journey through the Arts (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, February 15, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Come and join the August Wilson African American Cultural Center’s Cathyrn Calhoun for a discussion on being a cultural arts center that celebrates Black culture through art, literature, theater, and dance.

Cathryn Calhoun is the senior education and community engagement manager at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

Valentine’s Day Cooking Demo with Sarah Wray (In-Person Event)

Thursday, February 16, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Check the library’s social media feed for more information closer to the pro gram date.

I’m Right Here: 10 Ways to Get Help for Hoarding and Chronic Disorganization (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, February 22, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Join certified professional organizer Jill Yesko for a discussion on hoarding and chronic disorganization. There are times we all grapple with household clutter and feel disorganized. But when chronic disor ganization or hoarding behavior seriously impacts the quality of our lives or the lives of people we care about, compassionate, professional intervention can help. Learn how in this informative presentation.

Certified professional organizer Jill Yesko is the author of I’m Right Here: 10 Ways to Get Help for Hoarding and Chronic Disorganization. She founded Discover Organizing 20 years ago and has worked

with more than 4,000 families or busi nesses in organizing or downsizing their spaces. With a background in social work, she recognizes some of the brain-based challenges that may contribute to chronic disorganization such as a traumatic life event, depression, anxiety, or attention deficit disorder. She shares resources for help and strategies that work for adults who struggle with chronic disorganiza tion, as well as their family or long-term caregivers.

Maple Sugaring with the Audubon Society of Western PA (Zoom Event)

Wednesday, March 1, 2023, 6–7 p.m.

Long before white granulated sugar graced our stores in abundance, people in western PA relied on the mighty maple to supply our local sugar. This program looks at the history of maple sugaring through time—from native Americans and settlers to the modern-day sugar and syrup pro duction in Pennsylvania.

Survival Skills with Allegheny County Parks (In-Person Event)

Wednesday, March 8, 2023, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

What do you do if you become lost in the forest? Learn about basic woodland survival skills in the forest and what to do if you become lost. Learn how to start an emergency fire, how to find water, and how to plan and prepare to avoid getting lost, or to be ready in case you do. There is a fee of $7 per participant for this program. Participants receive a small fire-starting kit. Limited to 20 people. Meet at South Park–Cottage.

Winter storm emergencies are just that—emergencies. The Township of Upper St. Clair’s administrative staff, Police Department, and Public Works Department are on call 24 hours a day to help residents and businesses by making the streets safe.

During the winter season, Township residents are asked to be patient and understanding. To help the Police and Public Works Department during storms, the Township asks the cooperation of residents in the following areas:

1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to a minimum. Public Works and Police phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls only during storm situations. The Township is as eager as you are to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads, including 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.

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.

3. When streets are plowed, snow will be pushed in front of driveways. Unfortunately, there is no other place for the snow to go.

4. The Public Works Department is not permitted to assist residents by clearing driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mailboxes. Public Works employees work as many hours as necessary to make streets, inlets, cul-de-sacs, Township owned sidewalks, and parking lots safe for all vehicles and pedestrians.

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

6. The Township cannot recommend contractors or companies that provide private snow removal. Please refer to advertising publications.

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.

9. Cars can be towed if they restrict access for snow removal vehicles, per Chapter 120A of the Township Code, which states: Whenever any vehicle shall be found wrecked, abandoned, restricting access of emergency or snow removal vehicles or parked or used in violation of laws and ordinances now or hereafter in force, such vehicles shall be removed by authorized township employees or by a contract tower upon authorization of the Township Manager or his designated representative to the township pound, garage or lot. The Township Manager or his designated representative may direct the towing of a vehicle to any township designated pound, garage or lot for the purpose of police investigation.

Township, including Route 19, Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, and McMillan Road. It does not have maintenance responsibilities for Allegheny County-owned roadways, including Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, and Drake Road. Some considerations regarding the snow removal services that you receive as a resident of USC include:

1. The Public Works Department must be alert to air temperatures and road surface temperatures. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective to about 23° Fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°, road surfaces will require additions of liquid calcium chloride. Traffic causes rock salt to act more quickly, so streets with heavier traffic will show the results of sodium chloride application sooner than less traveled roadways.

2. The Township contracts with a weather consulting company, which provides advanced weather forecasting.

3. Peak traffic occurs between the hours of 6–9 a.m. and 3–6 p.m. Decisions to delay school must be made by school administration.

4. The Public Works Department minimizes the use of chemicals by plowing whenever possible. Generally, accumulations over one inch with additional snow predicted may require plowing as dictated by temperature.

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.

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 requires residential roadways to be designated secondary priority.

The department deploys 16 trucks equipped with salt spreaders and plows to clear approximately 110 miles of roadway, all Township-owned parking lots, buildings, and all School District parking lots.

The department is currently contracted to perform snow and ice removal on all state-owned roadways within the

6. Walks will be cleared at the Township building (including the library entrance) C&RC, MAC, and tennis bubbles as soon as possible. The Recreation Department’s schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities.

7. Excessive snow may require opening of inlets or location of fire plugs.

8. The Public Works Department has instituted an anti-icing process into the snow removal operation. This process consists of applying manufactured salt brine to the roadways prior to a storm event. As you encounter these Public Works’ trucks applying the product, please give them the space and rightof-way needed.

Jane’s Last Laugh

When I was an Upper St. Clair High School senior in the politically turbulent ’60s and ’70s, one of my favorite classes was a relevant blend of social studies and political science taught by Jim Mooney. He educated us about civil rights and democratic freedoms with creative techniques and a fondness for the Socratic method, which encouraged student participation and open debate. Some times, I took the opportunity for verbal deliberation a little too far.

As my high school days were coming to an end, I was becom ing nervous about getting into a good college. While I lacked the intelligence, grades, and discipline necessary to secure admission to an Ivy League school, my guidance counselor said it was remotely pos sible, which was all I needed to fuel my ungrounded fantasy. My teenage vision was that getting into an Ivy League school would assure a career that could change the world for the better and earnings that would sup port a refrigerator stocked with Heineken. To keep the dream alive, I’d have to deliver straight A’s in the first semester of my senior year.

As finals week approached, I was confident that I’d get A’s in most of my courses but risked getting a B in Mr. Mooney’s class unless I could score at least 90% on the final exam. I studied

diligently for the test when I wasn’t distracted by Mad magazine or Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In. However, the exam was more difficult than I had expected. I broke out in a cold sweat as I read questions that used jargon I’d never heard before (was I absent that day?) and the classroom clock seemed to be moving at breakneck speed. Even with my best guesses and fanciest fabrications, I knew I was in trouble. My hopes of getting a 90 were vanishing along with my collegiate career and lager ambitions.

But there was hope: the five-point bonus question Mr. Mooney would disclose near the end of allotted times for tests and quizzes. With about 10 minutes remaining in the final exam, Mr. Mooney wrote the bonus question on the blackboard. My heart sank. It was absurdly obscure, and I had no chance of getting it right. I wasn’t alone in my dismay, as the whole class groaned in unison. Mr. Mooney admitted that it was too difficult and started to erase it, promising a new, less challenging question.

I was relieved, until my good friend, Jane Gallagher, who sat directly in front of me, raised her hand. I feared the worst. Although Jane was a brilliant student and kind to a fault, her adherence to propriety would irk me at times. She said, “Mr. Mooney, I happen to know the answer to the bonus question. If you change it, I might not know the answer to the new question. That would be unfair.”

The class roundly booed her, and I kicked the back of her chair with my anger-driven penny loafer. She turned around and gave me the dirty look I expected, and then folded her arms in polite defiance as Mr. Mooney spoke:

“Jane’s right. I can’t change the question. It would be the kind of academic discrimination we learned about in this course, and it would be wrong.”

Without raising my hand, I fired back, “Mr. Mooney, we all

Jay Lynch

Jay Lynch receives a well-deserved gift from Jane Gallagher Wheeler.

Jane Gallagher

Mr. Mooney

Jane’s the smartest kid in the class.

get

it’ll be

of those of us who aren’t as smart as Jane.”

But the rest of us do. Changing the question won’t be academic

responded in a stern voice, “Mr. Lynch (he called you by your

he was angry), you’re

the concept of affirmative action and I’m NOT changing the question.”

persistence, I said, “How ‘bout two bonus questions? Let Jane have her question and give us another…a political compro mise to please both the common masses and the privileged.”

Mr. Mooney was running out of patience, and said, “Mr. Lynch, if you had mastered the subject matter, you wouldn’t be wor ried about bonus points. Are you going to be a guy who refuses to get a job and hopes to pay his rent by playing the daily number?

I sheepishly said, “No sir,” but clandestinely gave Jane’s chair one more jolt before the bell rang, ending the exam. As we left the classroom, she sneered at me, saying, “You embarrassed me, you creep,” and walked off in a huff.

When Mr. Mooney posted the final exam scores, I wasn’t surprised. I got an 85 and Jane got a 105. My inadequate study habits and ineffective classroom debate tactics had predictable consequences: no straight A’s, an ir ritated teacher, and vanquished, if irrational, Ivy League aspirations.

By the end of the school year I was admitted to a very good college. I earned a diploma and enjoyed a fine career; but my refrigerator has always been stocked with more-affordable Budweiser, which, of course, I blame on Jane Gallagher.

When I saw her at our recent 50th High School reunion, I reminded her of the event and told her I was still upset. As always, Jane had done her homework. She said, “I thought you might bring it up, so I brought you a little gift.” She pulled a lottery ticket out of her pocket with a post-it note attached that said, “For your rent.”

What’s the message for today’s students? Hit the books diligently and you’ll never have to rely on bo nus questions. And a studious classmate won’t tease you 50 years later. n

holiday season, treat yourself and those on your gift list to humor from local resident Jay Lynch. e fun

benefits e Miracle League of the South Hills, where every child deserves the chance to play baseball.

Lighter Side of Upper St. Clair on

Sean Casey, three-time Major League

All-Star,

Network TV broadcaster, and USC resident

I can’t wait to

them in the book. Jay is USC’s humor

we’re lucky to have him.”

Blass, Pittsburgh Pirates All-Star, World Series winner, broadcaster, and long-time USC resident

Contact Jay at bkefather@yahoo.com with feedback and comments.

USC Still Rockin’—

Class of ’71 reunion shirt

Life insurance can be lifechanging

Emma’s Kafe & Deli

Felicia Musillo, Owner

Many may recall when the doors of Emma’s Market and Deli opened in 2006. It quickly became the friendly and convenient destination for Boar’s Head deli items, sandwiches, bread, milk, and of course the wildly popular chicken salad. After 16 years of serving the surrounding communities the owner, Terri Emma, decided that this past July would be her last, thus leaving many loyal customers disappointed to see this iconic small business close.

Since Emma’s doors first opened, I would stop in to buy my favorite drink to start my day, a box of Schneider’s iced tea. At the time, I had three daughters (Alexandra, Kaitlyn, and Emma) and was expecting my fourth (Mea). As my family was growing, so was my appreciation of the products offered at Emma’s. We always discovered something new like yummy chicken fingers and fries, soups, and treats for the kids. Emma’s was almost my home away from home and the business was one that I really admired. So much so, that around ten years ago I had a wild thought that I would one day love to own a business, like Emma’s.

But who was I kidding? I was a busy full-time mom and I loved volunteering in the community of USC. The dream of owning my own business and putting to use my degree and experience in hospitality and business management was in the rearview mirror. As the years passed and my daughters grew older, I re-entered the workforce part-time in 2015 with hopes

that one day I would be able to work full-time when the tim ing was right.

Fast forward to March 2020. I was approached to open a small coffee shop in the local community. With the help of Terri Emma and her then 14 years of small business experience, I created a business plan. Although the venture did not come to fruition, the exercise would prove to be of value.

While working full-time, I was still in search of a greater challenge in my career. Little did I know that my challenge was about the take flight when I opened Facebook and viewed a post that Emma’s was closing this past June…enter sad face emoji. Later that same month, I approached Terri about her decision.

It was clear that the exercise in 2020, along with Terri’s help, was preparing me for the next chapter of my life: to be privileged to take over the concept of the small market and deli that the community of Upper St. Clair has grown to love for the past 16 years.

The new Emma’s Kafe & Deli, LLC at the roundabout opened mid-October of 2022 and has kept the familiar roots and products that the surrounding communities have come to enjoy, along with some new additions such as an expanded grab-and-go section. We also offer catering; so if you start feel ing stressed about holiday entertaining, keep us in mind. And yes, we will have the popular chicken salad! n

See Emma’s Kafe & Deli ad on this page.

Cindy

Coach’s Corner

Reflections and Fond Memories

Coach Jim Render

If you have not interacted with a family named Lund, it is because of one of the following reasons: you have not lived in Upper St. Clair in the past 50 years, you have not had kids who participated in any of the USC Athletic Association teams, or you have not been involved with the Upper St. Clair School District. I understand that some of you are new to the commu nity and some of you did not have children who were involved in athletics. However, I think most of you reading this will find this is quite an accomplished family, and some of them might be living near you. Moreover, the odds of duplicating some of their successes are between slim and none.

Dick and Donna Lund moved their growing family to a house on Red Mill Drive in 1972. It was there that they raised five boys, all of whom are successful men in 2022. Richard is the oldest and lives with wife Gretchen in Sacramento, California. Sons Jake and Jon are college graduates, both living in San Diego. Richard is a sales manager for Holt of California. He is followed by Kenny and wife Laura, who have raised their three children —Hannah, Gunnar, and Leah—on Engelwood Drive. Next is Donny, living with his wife, also named Donna, and their four kids—Nicole, Donny, Catie, and Brian—in Tall Trees. Teddy was next in line, and he now resides in the North Hills with his wife Kad, and their son, Luke. Ted and Kad are owners of Primerica Advisors. The youngest boy in the Lund hierarchy is Eric, who lives on Hardy Drive where he and wife Michelle raised Ben and Lilly.

So, if you are keeping count, that is a total of five brothers and nine kids who went through the USC school system over a span of five decades and counting. A 50-year celebration was held this past Memorial Day at the homestead, where family and friends gathered to talk and relive the good old days. The accompanying pictures of the boys and their friends were taken on the driveway, aka the basketball court.

Education and a great work ethic were always stressed in the Lund household. Dick worked in the commercial paper in dustrial supply business, serving as a vice president of Darragh Paper Supply Co. Dr. Donna Lund graduated from Duquesne University as an English major and later was an English profes sor at Robert Morris University. She was also a noted writer for the Post-Gazette while raising those five boys. Dick personified the word volunteer. He was one of the founders of the Upper St. Clair Athletic Association (USCAA) in 1975 and was a two-term president of this group. He was also a chairman of the baseball committee and a long-time baseball coach. When Kenny and Donny began their varsity football careers, Dick served as presi dent of the USC Football Boosters in 1985 and 1986.

Eric Lund was a wide receiver for USC on our 1988 and 1989 WPIAL championship teams. That 1989 team was also the first team in Pennsylvania to win 15 games and the state champion ship. Eric also often reminds me that it was he who carried the winning touchdown plays into the huddle that beat North Hills on national television and additionally a huge victory over North

Allegheny. I sometimes have to remind him of who actually “called the plays.” Today, Eric is a regional sales manager for Glaxo-Smith-Kline. Like his father, Eric has been a volunteer coach and administrator for the youth of Upper St. Clair. He has twice been the president of the USCAA and is currently the vice president, as well as the chairman of the fields and facilities committee. Between he and his dad, they are approaching 40 years of service to the young athletes of our community. He is a proud graduate of Penn State University, and Eric’s son, Ben, is a junior at Penn State. Ben represents the third generation of the Lund family who successfully participated in our football program while I was the head coach.

Kenny was a freshman when I arrived at USC in 1979. Over the next four years, we won a lot of football games. He recalls a victory over Mt. Lebanon and a 10–0 season record in 1982 as major highlights. He was co-captain of this team, as well as a captain of the track team in the spring of 1983. In addition to being honored as an all-conference selection in football, Kenny was a member of the National Honor Society. Because of his versatility as an athlete and student, he was recruited to continue his education at Yale University of the prestigious Ivy League. Success continued as he was a two-year starter on the football team as well as scoring points for the track team as a javelin thrower. In all, he earned five varsity letters at Yale. During his tenure as a football player, their record versus Harvard was three wins and one loss. Outstanding, but the loss still haunts him to this day. (You do realize we are talking about one of the longest intense rivalries in the history of college sports.) Following his graduation from Yale and entering the work environment,

(Left to right) Ken and Don Lund, while at Yale

Ken matriculated to Pitt Law School and graduated in 1981. After law school, Ken joined the Pittsburgh office of K & L Gates where he worked for fifteen years. In 2005, he joined an international engineering and construction group. After a series of acqui sitions, he joined Corsa Coal as a general counsel in 2017. Ken now serves his clients as a member of the growing Pittsburgh of fice of Whitford Taylor and Preston LLP. He delivers business-oriented legal and commercial services to the construction, mining, and energy industries.

Don Lund followed his older brother in many ways. At USCHS, he was a three-year starter at guard and linebacker. He was a two time all conference linebacker as well as all-conference as a baseball player. He was also a football captain (1984) when the team won 29 games and lost only one in three years of regular season play. Following the tradition of excellence in education, he was also a member of the National Honor Society. The longtime chairman of the USCHS social studies department, Paul Pryor, once told me that Donny was perhaps the finest writer that ever came through his classes. Next after his 1985 high school graduation, he followed his brother to Yale. Naturally, suc cess followed, and he was named a captain of the freshman team. As a three-year letter winner, he earned all-Ivy League honors in 1988. He graduated in 1989 and followed his older brother to Pitt Law School. He received his law degree in 1992 and has practiced law in Pittsburgh for thirty years, specializing in complex business and construction litigation and contract review. He worked for some of the largest firms in Pittsburgh and the world, before forming his own law firm. Lund Metcalf LLC is based in Southpointe and focuses on complex litigation and contract review. Don also serves as outside general counsel for numerous clients. He has been named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer in business litigation every year since 2015.

During the 2022 football season, Penn State has six captains for its team. The Pittsburgh Steelers have five captains and Pitt has four. Yale has been playing football since 1875 which is over a decade longer than Pitt and Penn State. By tradition, Yale elects one captain per year. Only the cur rent players vote on this position. The head team manager and the previous captain count the votes and inform the coaches and players as to who will be their new captain. What are the chances of any given high school in the USA sending a young man to Yale who will be captain? What are the chances that a high school would have two guys go to Yale and become their captain? If a high school did have two guys

reach this high honor, what would be the odds that they would be brothers? Upper St. Clair’s Kenny Lund was the captain in 1986 and his brother Donny was selected as captain in 1988. Unbelievable! Tradition also mandates that their official picture be taken “on the fence.”

In my opening paragraph, I wrote that the chances of matching the successes and accomplishments of the Lund family were extremely slim. They have served and brought honor to Upper St. Clair and to themselves on a local and national level. If I were a lawyer making my clos ing arguments, I would simply say, “I rest my case.” n

The Lund brothers—Teddy, Richard, Eric, Donny, and Kenny

Friends and family enjoying the Lund’s 50-year celebration

(l/r) Eric, Teddy, Kenny, Donna, Dick, Richard, and Donny Lund

HOCKEY SCHOOL

7 weeks—$154. 40-minute classes beginning 1/10/23.

5 STEP PROGRESSIVE FORMAT. Classes meet once a week on the studio rink for 40 minutes. The Hockey School enables players ages 4–12 of all ability levels to participate and learn the skills of the game in a progressive, non-pressure atmosphere at an affordable price. Small size classes, P.S.A. Skating Professionals, certified USA Hockey Instructors and weekly scrimmages. Registration beginning in December.

DEVELOPMENTAL LEAGUE

5–8 year old & 9–12 year old divisions. The Mt. Lebanon Ice Center’s Developmental League begins 1/13/23, ON THE STUDIO RINK. The 7 game season league is noncompetitive, no-check; equal ice time is guaranteed. To ensure balanced teams, registration is on an individual basis, with players rating each other. Enrollment is limited. Full equipment is required. Register in Dec. with the rink cashier. The fee of $154 includes referee’s fee and game jersey.

LEARN TO SKATE

7 weeks—$154. The Mt. Lebanon Ice Center’s Learn to Skate program will begin 12/19/22.

PLAY DATE ON ICE

Every Tuesday, 9–11am. $6.00 each; preschool children with an adult. Light refreshments, children’s movie and more!

PUBLIC SESSIONS

Monday, Thursday, Friday 9 am–1:30 pm Wednesday 9 am–Noon Friday: 7:40–10pm—TGIF SK8 Saturday: 2–4 pm Sunday: 2–4 pm

LEBANON

SkateNow

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGES

Party plans are available on weekends using the main and studio rinks. Call 412-561-4363 or visit our website @ www. mtlebanon.org/330/ice-rinkbirthday-parties to see all our options.

STICK TIME

The Center will offer Stick Time on Tuesdays from Noon to 1:50 pm. Full equipment is required (including helmet) $9.00.

USC Students Strike Gold, Silver, and Bronze at International State Wars Inline Hockey Competition

Representing the state of Pennsylvania, USC sophomore Caleb Guarino with 2007 Team Inferno, brought home gold at his first ever State Wars International Inline Hockey tournament, held in Detroit this summer. Having never lost a game in the tournament, Team Inferno easily beat Team Colorado 8–0 in the championship game, claiming the ultimate prize in the sport of inline hockey. Caleb set the scene, scoring in the first two minutes of the game.

“Off a shot from my teammate, I suc cessfully tracked the puck and scored an easy goal off the rebound,” stated Caleb.

About the State Wars experience, Caleb said, “It was pure focus and excite ment. Often, getting the team pumped up in the locker room led to a hard-fought win. My goal was to simply skate out onto the rink and play my best. During games, I mostly focused on staying positive and enjoying the experi ence. In the end, our hard work paid off, as we finished with a flawless record and a shiny gold medal!

State Wars is an international inline hockey tournament where players compete not only against teams from the United States, but against teams that come from as far away as the United Kingdom, Sweden, Columbia, Namibia, and even Australia.

Caleb commented, “You would hear teams like Namibia or Columbia speaking a foreign language that nobody could under stand. However, you could still engage in small conversations with the little English they knew. We made friends with kids from multiple teams between games.”

Several students from USC found success this summer including junior Isaac Bernstein and senior Alex Oprison, whose 2005 Team PA brought home the silver in a difficult 6–5 loss against Labeda Golden Knights.

“This is an experience you can’t get anywhere else. The competitiveness can be felt at all times, and the teams are always top notch! said Isaac. “Seeing the ex citement and hearing the crowds cheering in their own dialects makes the experience unlike anything else!”

Alex said, “My favorite moment was having to play goalie after our goalie was ejected at the start of the game. Being able to dish out some “nudges” to opposing players in my crease like I usually have to take when I’m in front of the net. It was good to dish it out for a change and fun to see things from a different perspective!”

Additionally, sophomores Jeffrey Hurst and Claire Manalo brought home the bronze for 2006 Team Inferno. With five minutes left in the second period, Jeffrey scored the game tying goal.

“It was electric!” said Jeffrey. “I had possession of the puck in our own end and passed it to my teammate coming off the bench. I had decided to go in front of the other net. Then, my teammate came speeding up the boards and I screamed “shoot it” and boom, he shot it at the perfect height, and I tipped it into the net!”

After the 2–2 tie with Team Hat Trick from Tennessee, Team Inferno prevailed in with an overtime goal five minutes into the 4th period to win the Bronze with a score of 3–2.

Claire Manalo, in addition to playing for both 2005 and 2006 Team Inferno, also completed in both the Women’s and Girl’s Major divisions for team TDQ, bringing home an additional bronze and silver medal. Team TDQ brought home the silver medal after a hard fought 2–1 loss against Columbia, while the Women’s team was awarded with bronze.

“Being on a team that was put together with teammates from all over the country and world, our girls’ team had never played together before this tournament.” said Claire. “Players from Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and even Australia met for the first time in the locker room be fore the first game. It is challenging starting a game with players when you don’t even know their names yet!”

Congratulations to the USC Inline students for their dedication and determination in reaching the ultimate success at this year’s State Wars Inline Hockey tournament with an assortment of gold, silver, and bronze to make USC proud. All the team members play for the high school varsity inline hockey team.

“As an organization, USC Inline has shown considerable growth with six teams ranging from 2nd–12th grade, elementary to varsity,” said organization presi dent Eric Bernstein. “This is truly a sport for everyone!” n

Founded in 2008, USC Inline Hockey offers a fun, competitive sport for boys and girls of all skill levels. For more information, visit uscinlinehockey.com.

Caleb Guarino with the trophy

(Left to right) Caleb Guarino, Alex Oprison, Isaac Bernstein, Jeffy Hurst, and Claire Manalo Photos courtesy of the Manolo and Hurst families

4 Design+Build Ways to Make Your Home Cozy This Winter Season

During the years we’ve spent help ing families in Upper St. Clair design and build their dream houses, we’ve thought a lot about how to create a home you’ll love all winter long. It’s a priority for McQueen Building Company, and it’s also been a topic of conversation in our own house. Although Geoff grew up under the Florida sun, Christine was raised in Pittsburgh winters.

If you live here like we do, then you get it. This season is full of icy cold mornings, endless gray skies and afternoons that get dark way too early. The good news is this: no matter your style of decorating, there are steps you can take to make sure your house feels warm, cozy and welcoming throughout even the coldest of days.

Here are four strategies we love:

1. Make the most of your fireplace (or consider adding one).

There’s nothing like a crackling fire on a winter night. If you have a fireplace, take a good look at the mantle and the fireplace screen. Do you love the design, or is this the year to upgrade? Redesigning your fireplace can give a major facelift to a

living room or family room, and it may encourage you to use your fireplace more often.

There’s such a wide range of fireplace screens and mantles available— everything from sleek modern styles to elegant traditional de signs. So take your time and search for a look that truly makes you happy. A gor geous fireplace is an architectural asset you’ll love all year long, even in summer.

What else might make you more likely to use and enjoy your fireplace? Consider getting a new decorative basket or bin for storing some firewood near your fireplace, and perhaps upgrade your fireplace tools.

Be sure to take a good look at the styling of your mantle top. Remember: decorating for winter isn’t the same as holiday decorat ing. Once the holiday decorations are put away, you can still celebrate winter with decorative pieces that create some sparkle on dark nights.

2. Fill your living space with cozy elements.

Plush throw blankets are a must this time of year, but there’s even more you can do. Consider swapping out your usual throw pillows for a few new ones in cozy fabrics like soft wool or even real or faux fur.

And if you’re in the market for new uphol stered furniture, you might want to consider pieces in warmer fabrics like wool or mohair rath er than light linens and silks. These items can work in any season, but you’ll be especially glad to have them for winter and even on the cold nights of spring and fall.

3. Add plenty of candles to the rooms you use most often.

With days getting dark so early, it al ways helps to lean into the cozy glow of candlelight. Try arranging groupings of chunky pillar candles of different heights or line up a series of votive candles along your mantle.

Got kids or pets? You can still enjoy the glow of real candles by taking a few precautions, like placing your candles in side glass hurricanes to shield them from climbing kitties or rambunctious children. There are so many impressive electronic candles these days. Many are made of real wax and have a range of flicker settings. You can also revel in the fun of winter by opting for warm fragrances like cinnamon, clove or pine.

Amplify the warm glow of candlelight by swapping out the bulbs in your living room lamps to have warmer light or using “smart bulbs” that allow you to adjust the warmth of the light.

4. Install a custom coffee bar with a hot water spout to make your favorite warming beverages.

This is a truly creative choice that can really elevate your space for winter—and you’ll still be loving it when the warm weather comes. It’s an affordable luxury to have the perfect cup of espresso, a spec tacular tea latte, or gourmet hot chocolate available at your fingertips. And a beauti fully decorated home coffee bar is a gift not just to yourself but also for guests who visit your home.

However your family keeps warm this winter, we’re sending good wishes from our home to yours! n

Geoff and Christine McQueen, McQueen Building

School District

School District

Administrator Secretary/Email Address Extension

Dr. John Rozzo

Sarah MacDonald 2218

Superintendent of Schools smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Sharon Suritsky

Assistant/Deputy

Amy Pfender

Mary Beth Harkleroad 2214

mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Mary Beth Harkleroad 2214

Assistant Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Lou Angelo langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2272

Director of Operations & Facilities

Ray Berrott

Director of Technology

Sean Bryson

Chief of School Police

Dr. Judy Bulazo

rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2059

sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2560

Mary Beth Harkleroad 2214

Director of Curriculum and Professional Development mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Scott Burchill

Dawn Machi 2220

Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Ray Carson, Jr.

Sarah MacDonald 2218

Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell

Julie Karabinos 2116

Director of Special Education jkarabinos@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Danny Holzer Kimberly Valeriano 2260

Director of Athletics kvaleriano@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Lauren Madia

Terri Lott 2283

Director of Pupil Services tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Jonn Mansfield jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us 3450

Director of Transportation Tina Vojtko tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us 2215

Communications Specialist

Bradley Wilson bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us 3318

Director of Strategic Initiatives

School District Central Office Administration

School District

Administration

Dr. Timothy Wagner

Erin Peterson

Couch Middle School

Mathews

Christine Mussomeli

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux

Elementary School

Mark Miller

Elementary

of

Lindsay Klousnitzer

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

Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Amy Pfender Assistant Superintendent

Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Lauren Madia Director of Pupil Services

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell Director of Special Education

Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

Scott Burchill

of Business and Finance Ray Carson, Jr. Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities

Upper

Elementary Schools (grades K–4)

School

Middle Schools (grades 5–8)

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux, principal

2300 Morton Road–412-833-1600, ext. 4000

Erected: 1968, enrollment: 431* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Boyce (grades 5–6)

Dr. Daniel O’Rourke, principal

1500 Boyce Road–412-833-1600, ext. 5000

Erected: 1960, enrollment: 630* School day: 8:35 a.m.–3:15 p.m.

Board of School Directors

The Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors consists of nine elected directors. Board minutes, meeting videos and the list of upcoming meeting dates are available on the District’s website: uscsd.k12.pa.us/ schoolboard. Meetings typically begin at 7 p.m. in the District administration building. For more information regarding meetings, call 412-833-1600, ext. 2218.

Central Office

Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent

The Upper St. Clair School District's administrative offices are located on the Upper St. Clair High School campus, adjacent to the stadium. The mailing ad dress is 1775 McLaughlin Run Road, and can be reached at 412-833-1600.

100 Warwick Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 8000

Erected: 1960, enrollment: 518* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Fort Couch (grades 7–8) Erin Peterson, principal

515 Fort Couch Road–412-833-1600, ext. 3000

Erected: 1951, enrollment: 603* School day: 8:30 a.m.–3:20 p.m.

High School (grades 9–12)

Buses/Transportation

Carl R. Streams

Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer, principal

1560 Ashlawn Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 6000

Erected: 1966, enrollment: 449* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

* Enrollment

Upper St. Clair High School

Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal 1825 McLaughlin Run Road 412-833-1600, ext. 2530

Erected: 1960, enrollment: 1288* School day: 7:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.

2022. Total District enrollment is 3919.

The primary responsibility of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Department of Transportation, located in Cecil Township, is to provide safe, ef ficient transportation for the 4300 public, private, and special needs students who attend approximately 30 schools within a ten-mile radius of Upper St. Clair.

For more information, contact Jonn Mansfield, Director of Transportation at 412-833-1600, ext. 3450, or jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Board of School Directors

Phillip J. Elias, President Daphna Gans, Vice-President

Barbara L. Bolas

Kelly P. Hanna

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.

Michael R. Mascaro

Angela B. Petersen

Jennifer A. Schnore

Z. Wetzel

Albert Baker

Dwight D. Eisenhower Mark Miller, principal

R

S I D E N T I A L G U I D E

Food Services

The School District’s six nutrition centers serve thousands of healthy meals each day.

For information, contact Ashley Lindhurst, Food Service Director at 412-833-1600, ext. 2287, or alindhurst@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Technology

The role of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Technology Department is to provide and support the use of resources that enhance the teaching and learning processes, strengthen communication, and improve efficiency of operations.

For more information, contact Ray Berrott, Director of Technology at 412-833-1600, ext. 2059, or rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

The Upper St. Clair School District initi ated an International Baccalaureate Program in 1998 and now offers this program in grades one through 12.

• Primary Years Program Streams (grade1–4):

Lauren Bogus, 412-833-1600, ext. 6038 or lbogus@uscsd.k12.pa.us

S C H O O L D I S T R I

• Middle Years Program: Boyce (grade 5–6):

Chrissy Caragein, 412-833-1600, ext. 5067, or ccaragein@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Fort Couch (grade 7–8):

Andrew Bowers, 412-833-1600, ext. 3236, or abowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us High School (grade 9–10): Gordon Mathews, 412-833-1600, ext. 2402, or gmathews@uscsd.k12.pa.us

• Diploma Program: Tanya Chothani, 412-833-1600, ext. 2644, or tchothani@uscsd.k12.pa.us

USC eAlerts

School-Wide Enrichment Program (SWEP) for grades 1–4

Many opportunities are available for elementary level students to explore topics that interest them through SWEP. Mini-assemblies, mentorships, and independent study projects are all part of SWEP.

For more information, contact Mark Miller, supervisor of elementary educa tion, at 412-833-1600, ext. 8000, or mmiller@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Boosters (Parent Support Groups)

Boosters and parent groups are formed to support various activities and sports teams. For information, call Upper St. Clair High School at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260 (athletics) or ext. 2264 (activities).

Parent Teacher Council Members 2022–2023

Upper St. Clair’s Parent Teacher Council (PTC) for the 2022–2023 school year include Shanna Caplan, president; Zoe Weaver, first vice president; Dr. John Rozzo, second vice president; Jaime Fitzgerald, secretary; Lindsay Beck, treasurer; and Gina Swanson, board advisor. We wish them continued success in providing our District with their help and guidance as they enhance the academic and social experiences for our children.

Fine and Performing Arts

The Upper St. Clair Band Parents Association is a parent group formed to support the band and orchestra. The Upper St. Clair Choral Boosters is a parent group formed to support the choral groups. For information, call Upper St. Clair High School Fine and Performing Arts Department at 412-833-1600, ext. 2627. Theatre Angels support the USCHS spring musical. Call 412-833-1600, ext. 2530 or ext. 3325 for more information.

Extracurriculars

Sports programs are available at all levels. For information regarding middle school or high school sports, contact athletic director Danny Holzer via email at dholzer@uscsd.k12.pa.us or phone the athletic office at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260. Music programs, including chorus, theater, orchestra, and band, as well as cheerleading and dance, are available at various grade levels. For information regarding high school activities, call activities coordinator Brooke Tarcson at 412-833-1600, ext. 2264, or email at btarcson@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For information regarding elementary and middle school activities, call the respective building’s school principal.

Kennywood Day (a Community-Wide Tradition)

Kennywood Day is a community-wide tradition of fun. Each year all Upper St. Clair residents are invited to participate in a day at Kennywood Park (typically in June). Discounted tickets are available for purchase online prior to the event. Details are posted on the District’s website each spring.

District Calendar

Upper St. Clair School District regularly sends news and information via email. Weekly recap emails with the latest news, upcoming events, links to news articles, and more are sent to subscribers. Subscribe to eAlerts on the District’s website (uscsd.k12.pa.us) under Quick Links, shown on the left-hand side.

The USC School District detailed monthly calendar is available online, providing residents with the most up-todate information about events in our Township’s schools. To access the calendar, visit the District website at uscsd.k12.pa.us and click on the “Calendar” tab. In addition to viewing events for the entire District, there is an option to filter by specific school building. See the abbreviated calendar on

Volunteers in Our Schools (grades K–12)

We are grateful for each parent and community member who con tributes to the success of our students. The Child Protective Services Law requires background checks for volunteers in schools. The Upper St. Clair School District safety team manages the volunteer clearance process for the District. Clearances are processed by outside agencies, and it takes time for them to be completed. Prospective volunteers are encouraged to complete the process as soon as possible. Detailed information—including step-by-step directions—is available on the District’s website. If you have questions or concerns about volunteer clearances, call 412-833-1600 , ext. 2121, or email Stacey Liguori, safety coordinator, at sliguori@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Parent Teacher Council (PTC)

Parent Teacher Council (PTC) is the “umbrella” organiza tion in Upper St. Clair (USC) that provides leadership and coordination for the six parent/teacher organizations in USC.

If you would like to be involved with your child’s parent/teacher organization and get the “big picture,” you are welcome to join! For more information, contact Shanna Caplan, president, at shannacaplan@gmail.com.

Building Level Parent/Teacher Organizations

Each school building has an organization of parents, who together with their teachers, work within the schools to provide extra help, additional programs, and educational and social activities for the children. For information, call your building’s school representative at 412-833-1600.

Baker Elementary School PTA – ext. 4000 Eisenhower Elementary School PTO – ext. 8000 Streams Elementary School PTO – ext. 6000 Boyce Middle School PTO – ext. 5000 Fort Couch Middle School PTSO – ext. 3000 Upper St. Clair High School PTSO – ext. 2236

Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)

GATE is a committee of the PTA Council whose objective is to provide information and support to parents of gifted and academically talented students in the District.

Partners in Education (PIE)

PIE is a group of parents, administrators, and staff formed as a branch of the PTA Council to foster the best educational environment for all exceptional children and to educate and assist parents of exceptional children.

Spelling Bee

The Spelling Bee committee funds and manages the District’s elementary and middle schools Scripps spelling competitions.

STEAM

The STEAM committee works with District staff to de velop

programs in the

arts, and math for the benefit of all students.

Wellness

The Wellness

is

registra tion

Information

the 2023–24

2023.

8:15–10:55 a.m.

p.m.

2023–24

age by September 1, 2023,

Lott,

(uscsd.k12.

be

enrolled

The

at 412-833-1600, ext. 2283, or

email at tlott@uscsd. k12.pa.us.

Twelve Welcomed into Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame 2022

Twelve distinguished alumni were inducted into the 2022 Upper St. Clair High School’s Halls of Fame and were honored at the annual induction ceremony on October 7. After celebrating during dinner at the high school, the inductees were recognized at the football game where USC battled Bethel Park.

The 2022 Halls of Fame inductees include:

Academics

Douglas Gibson (1982) Natalie Hernandez DePalma (1996) Matthew Lentz (2006) Lisa Volpatti (2009) Arts

Stacy Chbosky (1991) Stephen Clink (1998) Stephanie Maloney (2006) Athletics

Kyle Dudzinski (2011) Dakota Conwell (2012) Brian Drechsler (1993) John Mascaro (1985) Robbie Mertz (2015)

Academics

Arts

Athletics

Founded in 2000, the Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame honors those who have distinguished them selves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. n

Douglas Gibson Natalie Hernandez DePalma Matthew Lentz

Lisa Volpatti Stacy Chbosky Stephen Clink

Stephanie Maloney

Kyle Dudzinski Dakota Conwell

Brian Drechsler

John Mascaro

Robbie Mertz

Fort Couch Gets New Assistant Principal

Gordon Mathews has been named assistant prin cipal of Fort Couch Middle School. The school board approved his appointment in August.

An Upper St. Clair graduate, Gordon has served as a school counselor and alumni coordinator at Upper St. Clair High School for the last four years. Throughout his tenure, he has taken a leadership role in the high school’s Peer Tutoring and Leadership Academy programs and currently serves as a coor dinator in the district’s International Baccalaureate Middle Years program. In addition, Gordon has been a member of the Upper St. Clair football coaching staff for over seven years.

“Throughout the last several years, Mr. Mathews has dem onstrated an unwavering commitment to our Upper St. Clair students. Beyond his important role as school counselor, he has served our students in significant and meaningful ways,” said Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools. “I am confident that our Fort Couch school community will benefit greatly from his leadership and enthusiasm.”

Staff Recognized

This August, the district welcomed newly contracted teachers Anastasia Anthony, special education, Boyce; Hilarie Bauer, school nurse, Boyce; Blaise Cackovic, physics, High School; Linda Connor, librarian, Baker; Frank Cremonese, physical education, Baker; Abbey DiGregorio, physical education, Boyce; Julia Ellis, resource, High School; Kristi Frommeyer, school counselor, High School; Beth Lash, school counselor, High School; Ellie Oxenreiter, special education, Boyce; and Adam Ward, school psychologist.

In addition, the district honored 10 veteran staff members for completing 25 years of service. Honorees include Ray Berrott, director of technology;

A graduate of Duquesne University, Gordon earned a master’s degree in school coun seling. He completed the K-12 Principal Certificate program at University of Pittsburgh. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Washington & Jefferson College.

Gordon resides in Upper St. Clair with his wife, Lauren, and their two dogs, Nala and Kiki. He has served as president of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair since November 2020.

Gordon fills the vacancy created when former assistant princi pal Erin Peterson was promoted to principal in June. Joe DeMar, who served as Fort Couch principal for two decades, officially retired in August after nearly 30 years of service to the district. n

Leslie Densmore, 1st grade, Baker; Terry Jackson, special education, High School; Tom Kostelic, maintenance foreman, Bus Garage; Steve Levine, 8 th grade social studies, Fort Couch; Julie Mauder, 6 th grade math, Boyce; Diane Rodi, human resources/benefits coordinator; Scott

Roley, custodian, High School; Dr. Sharon Suritsky, assistant/deputy superintendent; and Michelle Zirngibl, special education curriculum leader & SHOP@USC coordi nator, High School. n

Six Named 2022-23 Scholars by the College Board

Six USCHS students have earned recognition as 2022-23 Scholars by the College Board for their academic achievements and outstanding performance on the PSAT.

Junior Lucia Miles was named a National African American Recognition Program Scholar. Seniors Ava Keating, Sarah Robert, Benjamin Rush, and Elisa Tucker, along with junior Grace Atencio were named National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars.

The College Board’s four National Recognition Programs award academic honors to underrepresented students. The four programs include National African American Recognition Program, National

Hispanic Recognition Program, National Indigenous Recognition Program, and National Rural and Small-Town Recognition Program.

Although the National Recognition Program Scholar is not a scholarship award, students can include this academic honor in their college and scholarship applications.

Students who identify as African American/Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Indigenous, or attend high school in a rural area or small town, have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and have excelled on the PSAT, or earned a score of three or higher on two or more AP Exams may be eligible. n

Personnel with 25 years of service (l/r): Dr. Sharon Suritsky, Julie Mauder, Steve Levine, Diane Rodi, Ray Berrott, Leslie Densmore, Michelle Zirngibl, Terry Jackson

Gordon Mathews

Grace Atencio

Ava Keating Lucia Miles

Sarah Robert Benjamin Rush Elisa Tucker

National Merit Semifinalists

Nine Upper St. Clair High School seniors were re cently named semifinalists in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Competition. The following students scored in the top one percent of all juniors completing the PSAT in October 2021: Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, Ansh Goyal, Peer Khan, Jason Lu, Phillip Markovitz, Lauren Starr, and Benjamin Wasson.

“We are proud of the accomplishments of this year’s National Merit Semifinalists. When considering the many gifts that these students possess, we are also so impressed by the quality of their character,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal, said. “Recognizing nine National Merit semifinalists is not only a source of pride for these students and their families, but also reflects positively on our entire school community. We’re pleased to honor the hard work and dedication that each has exhibited in his or her years at USCHS.”

Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Stu dents enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT—the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test—during the fall of their junior year. The nationwide pool of semifinalists, approximately 16,000 students, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

According to the program’s website, “The National Merit Scholarship Program honors individual students who show ex ceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies.”

The Upper St. Clair semifinalists can continue in the com petition for some 7,250 National Merit Scholarships that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship applica tion that highlights academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employ ment, and honors and awards received.

National Merit finalists will be named in February 2023, followed by the National Merit scholars in the spring. The pro gram awards three types of National Merit scholarships—2,500

National Merit Scholarships of $2,500, approximately 950 corpo rate-sponsored Merit scholarships, and 3,800 college-sponsored Merit scholarships.

For more information regarding the National Merit Scholarship Program, visit nationalmerit.org. n

National Merit Commended Students

Thirteen Upper St. Clair High School seniors were recently named Commended Students in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program. Colin Eccher, Morgan Huzjak, Rebecca Lang, Carter McClintockComeaux, Quinton Miller, Keshav Narasimhan, Chase Neponuceno, Patrick Nowak, Mariah Rainier, Lindsay Ross, Evan Sarkett, Daniel Wang, and Henry Zheng are among the 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise.

Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2023 competition by taking the 2021 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) last October. n

Carter Chui

Jasmine Dietiker Matthew Earley

Ansh Goyal

Peer Khan Jason Lu

Phillip Markovitz

Lauren Starr Benjamin Wasson

Chase Neponuceno

Patrick Nowak

Mariah Rainier

Lindsay Ross

Evan

Sarkett

Daniel

Wang Henry

Zheng

Colin Eccher Morgan Huzjak

Rebecca Lang

Quinton Miller Keshav Narasimhan

Carter McClintock-Comeaux

AP Scholars Named

The College Board recently announced that 117 Upper St. Clair High School students and recent graduates earned the designa tion of AP Scholar. These students earned recognition for their exceptional achievement in the college-level Advanced Placement Program during the 2021-22 school year.

“Our AP Scholars have achieved at an exceptionally high level while completing some of the most rigorous coursework available for high school students,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal. “And so many of these students are also leaders in other areas of our school, such as in athletics, the arts, and activities. We are incredibly proud that they have challenged themselves academically and have experienced success.”

In May 2022, 348 Upper St. Clair students completed 686 AP exams in 24 subjects—earning a 79 percent pass rate. AP tests are scored 1–5; students must earn a 3 or higher to pass and possibly qualify for college credit.

Sixty students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. To qualify, students must earn an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. The list of honorees includes 2022 graduates Benjamin Wasson, William Bacdayan, Jacob Bernstein, Bear Bottonari, Phoebe Chen, Sophie Chen, Scott Cheung, Alyana Childs, Grace Copenhaver, Varun Damarla, Saif Durrani, Linus Friedman, Kathleen Gianni, Andrew Happ, Prapti Kanani, Aubrey Lang, Ethan Leszczynski, Eden Ma, Molly Maher, Luka Misic, Trinity Murphy, Ethan Neal, Daniel Paulick, Victoria Pete, Sriya Rayapureddy, Shana Reddy, Andrew Rosello, Sambhav Saggi, Vidhur Senthil, Ritvik Shah, Sujay Shah, Nitish Sharma, Nikhil Shetty, Zach Sileo, Mia Skeel, Nivedha Suresh, Jeet Sutreja, Alexander Teresi, Aditri Thakur, Hersh Tripathi, Arunprakash Vasudevan, Daniel Wang, Judy Wang, Maddie Wetzel, Andrew White, Shane Williams, Adam Zheng, and Shanning Zhou, and seniors Carter Chui, Jasmine Dietiker, Matthew Earley, Ansh Goyal, Peer Khan, Phillip Markovitz, Carter McClintock-Comeaux, Quinton Miller, Keshav Narasimhan, Patrick Nowak, Cole Super, and Daniel Wang.

Twenty-two Upper St. Clair students earned recognition as AP Scholars with Honor by earning an average score of 3.25 or higher

on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Upper St. Clair’s AP Scholars with Honor include 2022 graduates George Atencio, Joseph Goldstein, Esha Lahoti, Lilian Leggat, Catalina Marchando, Felipe Curi, Kaelyn Moran, Dev Patel, Eva Rankin, Ethan Rocks, Evan Tefft, and Isaac Yap, and seniors Aashna Banerjee, Sahil Bhalodia, Maura Joyce, Jason Lu, Jack Miller, Chase Neponuceno, Priyanka Palayekar, Maanasa Reddy, Evan Sarkett, and Sophia Song.

Thirty-five students earned the distinction of AP Scholar by earning scores of 3 or higher on three or more exams. AP Scholars include 2022 graduates Saif Bin Hammad, Nathan Garrett, Cadence Golden, Hannah Hardy, Allen Ho, Patrick Hynds, Rameshwarnaik Kethavath, Arika LaGoy, Trevor Lamb, Maggie Lowden, Leah Lund, Andrew Miller, Connor O’Neill, Michael Pellicci, William Perham, Joe Phillips, Ryan Senchyshak, Cole Shegan-Siniawski, Ganesh Sivaramakrishnan, Nolan Thomas, Fiona Wang, Eliana Zahalsky, and Bria Zegarelli, seniors Emily Barrie, Lan de Jong, Andrew Kanj, Rebecca Lang, Edythe McCurrie, Eesha Pande, Mariah Rainier, Tyler Riemer, and Elizabeth Zavadil, and juniors Susan Liu, Anuj Shah, and Lauren Tenney.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers stu dents the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school, and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP Exams. Upper St. Clair High School currently offers 24 AP courses includ ing AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Chinese Language, AP Comparative Government & Politics, AP Computer Science A, AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature and Composition, AP Environmental Science, AP French Language, AP German Language, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP Music Theory, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, AP Psychology, AP Spanish Language, AP Statistics, AP U.S. Government & Politics, AP U.S. History, and AP World History.

According to the College Board, AP students are more likely than their peers to complete college within four years and students who take AP exams say it makes them feel more confident and prepared for college. n

After being postponed due to Covid, the Upper St. Clair Class of 1971 cel ebrated their fiftieth reunion on October 1, 2022. The day began with a tour of the high school and the 50 people in atten dance were amazed at the many changes

at the school since their graduation. That evening, 150 classmates and guests shared wonderful high school memories at the Alpine Club in South Fayette. n

Posing for a group photo during the USCHS tour

Students from the class of 1971 who attended USC schools K–12

USC Robotics Gets $10,000 Boost

Tina Vojtko, USCSD Communications Specialist

The Upper St. Clair Robotics Club received a $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair to support FIRST LEGO League Challenge programming at the middle school level.

“A large portion of this grant will go toward purchasing 12 LEGO Education SPIKE Prime kits and expansion sets for Fort Couch Middle School,” said Tracy Smith, teacher and USC Robotics Club sponsor. “It will also cover expenses related to buying the challenge sets for this year’s game, ‘Super Powered,’ registering Fort Couch teams for FLL nationally and locally, as sisting in travel expenses to workshops, and much more.”

USC Robotics, which launched in the 2021–22 school year, had an enthusiastic response from students and families. Nearly 300 students in grades 5–12 have already expressed interest in joining the USC Robotics Club for the upcoming school year. Boyce and Fort Couch middle schools have reached enrollment capacity and are maintaining waitlists.

“This is more than double the students from last year,” said Tracy. “With this much interest, we need the proper materials and resources to provide an interactive and hands-on experience for all students.”

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair provides financial support for special programs and projects throughout the community that are not otherwise funded by tax dollars. The foundation focuses its support on the arts, health, and STEM. The $10,000 grant qualifies the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair as a Legacy donor.

“The trustees of the Foundation are certain that this activity will positively impact and enhance the learning and lives of all participants and make a significant impression on the community at large,” said Jennifer Dempsey, board secretary and director of grants for the Community Foundation.

To support its rapid growth, the USC Robotics Club has set a fundraising goal of $40,000. To reach that goal, the program offers several donor recognition levels for the 2022-23 school

year including: Legacy—$10,000 and above, School—$5,000, Team—$1,500, and Community—less than $1,500.

“The grant from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair gets us a quarter of the funding that we need,” said Tracy. “This is an amazing start!”

Tracy emphasized the importance that partnerships play in offering these types of extracurricular clubs and experiences.

“If you want to change the culture, integrating robotics, tech nology, and computer science K–12, it takes a movement,” she said. “It is not just financial support. It requires involved parents, mentors, educators, and community to really bring it all together. Organizations are supporting this cause because they recognize the relevance and know that students will develop skills and have experiences that will improve their future.”

The concept of partnership extends to the student level as well. Members of the USC Robotics Club provide community service through the local library and serve as mentors for younger students who share their interest in robotics.

“Already this year our high school robotics teams have been involved in outreach at our local library as well as connecting with our local Odyssey of the Mind students at Ingenuity Camp,” said Tracy. “Our hope is to find ways to connect with our elementary schools as well to bring robotics opportunities to their students. USC Robotics Club hopes to reach our K–12 community in meaningful and exciting ways this school year!”

Three local companies—Alstom, Mascaro Construction, and Thoro.ai—recently pledged their support for the USC Robotics Club. These recent donations bring the total raised to $23,750, nearly 60% of the club’s $40,000 goal for 2022-23.

To date, the 2022–23 donors include the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, Alstom, Mascaro Construction, TORC Robotics, DEKA Foundation, and Thoro.ai. For more information about USC Robotics or to donate online, visit uscrobotics.org. n

STEAM

STEAM TEAM

Tina Vojtko, USCSD Communications Specialist

This past July, Upper St. Clair School District hosted its annual STEAM TEAM camp. Approximately 100 students in kindergarten through grade 4 from Baker, Eisenhower, and Streams elementary schools participated in the week-long adventure, held at Baker school. The STEAM TEAM campers spent the week learning about the science behind an amusement park. The Carnegie Science Center kicked off the week-long camp with the program: Who wants to be an engineer? Throughout the week, students used the engineering design process to create a Log Jammer raft, a rollercoaster, and a solar oven. The junior engineers also participated in many daily team challenges that required collaboration, creativity, and perseverance.

The highlight of the week was Thursday’s trip to Kennywood Park, and the week concluded with a forensics challenge to discover who kidnapped Kennywood’s mascot, Kenny the Kangaroo.

Thanks to Ardolino’s Pizza for their donation of boxes for the solar ovens, Eaton Electric for guest speakers, and USC police officer Eric McAlpine, school police chief Sean Bryson, and Stream’s principal Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer for helping to solve the kidnapping mystery. n

Solving the case of Kenny the Kangaroo’s kidnapping

Some members of the STEAM TEAM at Kennywood

Designing rollercoasters

Using solar ovens to make s’mores

“The Pride” Enters Competitive Arena

Barrie, USCHS

If a person walks down the athletic hallway in the high school, they will be able to marvel at the vast number of trophies that Upper St. Clair students have proudly won throughout the years. In the 2022–2023 school year, a new group had the potential for the first time ever to take home a trophy to add to the trophy hall. This group was not a sport, but the students involved worked just as hard as any athlete. They practiced long hours in the summer, memorized complicated movements on the field, and entertained crowds numbering in the hundreds each Friday night in the fall. Drum roll please (literally)... it was the Upper St. Clair High School Marching Band.

The Upper St. Clair Marching Band, composed of approximately one hundred students, decided for the first time in its history to participate in competitions. Dr. John Seybert, the director of the band, gave insight into the reason for the change saying, “Our marching arts program strives for continuous improvement each year. Therefore, we decided to enter competitions as an opportunity to advance many aspects of our program.”

These competitions operate like a track or swim meet, where multiple bands come to one football stadium and are evaluated by judges on multiple categories, including music, visual effect, general effect, and performance. The marching band competed in two of these competitions through the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association this year. One competition took place on September 17 at Baldwin High School, and the other on October 15 at Gateway High School.

With the exciting addition of band competitions, in addition to the normal halftime and festival performances, changes were made to the band. Dr. Seybert elaborated on changes to the halftime performance, saying, “We revised aspects of our halftime pro duction to enhance our program. For example, the halftime production, “Believe,” is written in four movements (“Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Believer,” “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing,” and “I’m a Believer”) with music based on the theme. The band’s musical ar rangements and marching drill with visuals continue to improve.”

Additionally, the auxiliary, made up of what was previously known as the color guard, Pantherettes, and majorettes, got new uniforms and swing flags specifically for the halftime show that added to the exciting elements introduced this season.

A new season with a whole new look can be difficult to tackle, though. Gabbie Deep, a junior squad leader for the auxiliary, had a positive outlook on the season, but still recognized the many challenges faced. When asked about the challenges, she responded, “I felt like this year had definitely been a challenge because we had to focus on a competition perspective, but I was very proud of all the hard work our team has put in. We definitely put in a lot of time to see the best results.”

The time Gabbie referred to came in the form of two mandatory practices a week that could lasted up to six hours in total. Still, the band members were excited about the competition overall, despite the time com mitment.

Raniya Kethavath, a senior flutist, offered an instrumentalist’s perspective into the sea son, saying, “I think it’s really cool that the USC band competed this year; it opened up space for new opportunities that we never had access to before.”

So, the next time a person walks down the athletic hallway, will there be a marching band trophy? The Upper St. Clair marching band has officially stepped into the arena and represented our community with pride. After all, they are the “Pride of Upper St. Clair.” n

On September 15, the USCHS marching band placed second in Class AAA and earned the top Visual Performance score in Class AAA at the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) Festival.

Seniors Sophia Song, Emily Barrie, Raniya Kethavath, Ashvita Saxena, and Maura Joyce

Dr. John Seybert directing the band

Gabbie Deep

Auxiliary members

The Pride of Upper St. Clair

Congratulations to USCHS seniors Tyler Kirk and Bryn Junko who were crowned Homecoming King and Queen during halftime ceremonies on September 23, 2022. Members of the Homecoming Court included Laney Casares, Maura Joyce, Olivia Roylance and Ashvita Saxena as well as Ansh Goyal, Brian Lund, Owen Mandler and Phillip Markovitz. In the Homecoming football game, the Panthers defeated Peters Township, 17–10.

The theme for this year’s Homecoming festivities was “Disco Hoco—a groovy week of sparkle and spirit.” The week kicked off with the Senior Cruise aboard the Gateway Clipper. Other activities included theme days, Freshmen Field Day, Rush, an all-school pep rally, sporting events, and the Homecoming dance. n

Photos courtesy of Tina Vojtko

Pawprints...

Council

Shanna Caplan, President

Upper Saint Clair is an amazing place to live! Family, friends, and neighbors come together to help each other in times of need. Aside from the wonderful people that I have come to call friends or the variety of places to eat and shop, I love our school district. Not only are we ranked as one of the top school districts in the state, but USC is also staffed with amazing people, offers higher standard education, and goes above and beyond to make sure families are welcome.

This fall the PTC and PTO/PTA/PTSOs got to be a part of the annual new family welcome night. For the past couple of years, this event has not happened in its usual format due to COVID. This year we were able to resume regular operations and families were welcomed by many. Families enjoyed a meal generously donated by local businesses and volunteers and served by district administrators. All families were given free admission to the first home football game of the season. It was a beautiful night to watch football and hang out with other families. Another event the PTC was proud to have been a part of was the “LEAD” program family night. In collaboration with the USC School District, Judge Ron Arnoni, Brad Killmeyer of Leadership-Development LLD, the wellness committee, and Bethel Park School District, families gathered to learn about a few adversities our kids are facing and how to assist them with these challenges. This is just one of the many opportunities the district has provided to the community.

The PTC is proud to help our schools and families come together to work for a better, brighter future.

High School PTSO Kelly Powell, President Holiday greetings from USCHS! The ending of another year typically conjures feelings of reflection and gratitude. The cooler temperatures and the changing leaves evoke moments of pause, where we find ourselves grateful for the inconspicuous beauty and overlooked peace that is otherwise unnoticed during the chaos of our everyday lives. As we

begin to each emerge from extraordinary and unprecedented times, there is a renewed sense of gratitude that feels omnipresent; it’s as if gratitude is no longer just reserved for peaceful, snowy, quiet winter evenings. Lately, the handshake from a friend seems warmer, the applause during a child’s dance recital sounds louder, the flavor of a chocolate birthday cake tastes more decadent. And with each event and activity that the high school students, staff, and administration can attend again—Homecoming, football games, field days, spirit week—we are so grateful to have our friends, family, and community there to share it with us. Thank you for your support during the unusual times and also the exciting times. We’re so happy to be back together again.

Fort Couch PTSO Carrie Fick, President

Greetings from the Fort! If I had to describe this school year at Fort Couch in one word, I would say excitement. Excitement—a feeling or situation full of activity, joy or exhilaration—the opposite of boredom. We are busy at the Fort with the long-awaited return to normal activities and events for the students and staff.

Erin Peterson is doing a phenomenal job as the new principal, always sporting a walkie-talkie to keep abreast of the everchanging needs of the students. Holding the other walkie-talkie is most likely our wonderful new assistant principal, Gordon Mathews. Together they make a great team!

X’s and O’s—Valentine Grams, Valentine social, September social, December Reach Out collections, spirit wear sale, Caught You Being Good, staff appreciation breakfast, Spelling Bee, Spirit Nights

Code—QR code is an easy way to pay your PTSO student activity fee. Without your fees, we would not be able to fund socials, staff appreciation events, in-school clubs and much more. Please help us provide these fun events for your kids

I n gym class, our students will get to play pickleball, thanks to the PTSO’s purchase of four pickleball sets!

The in-school clubs have returned!

Every teacher loves the PTSO’s Warm Winter Wishes luncheon, at which they are showered with baked goods.

M eetings this year will be a hybrid of virtual and in-person. Parents are encouraged to attend our general PTSO meetings to see what is happening in the school. We usually have a relevant guest speaker (and coffee). For more information on how to volunteer for PTSO events, email ftcouchptso@gmail.com.

Energy. The positive energy that our secretaries, Sharon Lacy and Jill Polfus, exude leaves a lasting impression on visitors, staff, and students. Parents, feel free to bring any baked goods or snacks to the office for Sharon and Jill to set out for the teachers and staff.

New this year—photography club. The students in this club help with the school yearbook.

The little things are what matter most in life. Focus on the little things.

Boyce PTO Erica Baldasare, President

Every year Boyce focuses on a different theme. The Boyce PTO is excited to support the students and staff as they strive to fulfill this year’s theme of “Grow to be Your Best!” As we enter the holiday season, Boyce students will once again be putting on a Winter band concert that we hope everyone will try to attend. In December, students will also be participating in our annual holiday service project known as Friendship Shoebox where students pull together small holiday gift packages to benefit children in need via MERAKEY.

Then as we enter the new year, dust off your dictionaries, and try to keep up with the tough competition sure to be seen at the Boyce Spelling Bee.

We have a lot to look forward to this school year! Stay connected and get involved through the Boyce PTO website and our monthly Boyce Bulletins.

Baker PTA

Kristen McIntyre, President

Hello from Baker PTA! After a few challenging years, we are so excited for what’s in store for the 2022–2023 school year, including the return of several events and activities that had to be put on hold.

Kicking off the year, the PTA welcomed our new Baker families with a new family welcome event prior to the start of school. The event gave new families a chance to meet with Dr. McClintock-Comeaux and members of the PTA and take a tour of the school to get familiar with important locations like individual classrooms, the cafeteria, and library.

The Boo Bash was back this year on October 21 as an outdoor carnival with fun games, food trucks, raffles, and, of course, a cake walk. It was a great opportunity for our Baker families to come together for a night of fun, food, and friendship and provided an opportunity for the PTA to raise funds to sponsor and support projects and school-wide initiatives at Baker. Thank you to the volunteers for their efforts in putting the event together.

New this year, the PTA is sponsoring Baker Celebration Books, a program that supports the Baker library by offering family and friends of Baker students an opportunity to make a book donation in a student’s name to the Baker library. Each donated book has a personalized bookplate attached to memorialize the student’s special memory or milestone.

Finally, the Baker PTA coordinated the annual Fall Crawl and Harvest classroom parties at the end of October. Students wore costumes and participated in a parade as part of the Fall Crawl, followed by classroom parties with games and crafts.

We look forward to many more activities and events throughout the year. Our goal is to increase and maximize PTA participation and engagement, so we will

be making efforts to do that this year. We hope to see all our Baker families at a PTA event this year.

Eisenhower PTO Jenny Hecht, President

Now that we had a few busy months of getting back in the swing of everything that we have been missing, we can take some time to relax and enjoy the winter season!

At Eisenhower, we are happy to host the holiday parties in the classrooms. We are thrilled to welcome back all the wonderful volunteers that provide so many great ideas that make the parties a highlight of the classroom life at Eisenhower. We are also excited to bring back the traditional, in-person Eisenhower Extras, family Bingo night, and grade level socials that we know and love. In February, these “Extras” will provide an opportunity for students to connect beyond the regular school day with other Eisenhower students in activities led by professionals in our community. Family Bingo night and the grade level socials are always a great success in bringing the students, families, and friends together for a fun-filled evening. We are so thankful for all the wonderful opportunities that our kids have being a part of this great community.

Streams Michelle Faulds, President

Streams kicked off the 2022–2023 school year with lots of fun and full of energy.

First, we welcomed the new Kindergarten class of 2035. Throughout the summer, the PTO organized playdates in the park at Wiltshire Park where the kids had an opportunity to get to know each other and make new connections before the school year started. The fun did not stop there. On August 4, the PTO hosted the annual Kindergarten connection. Every Kindergartener, and his or her family, were invited to the MAC on McLaughlin Run Road. There were games, crafts, Kona Ice, and lots of good conversation.

Next, Streams welcomed the new families who have children in grades one through four attending Streams for the first time. This year, there were 20 families who were officially welcomed with a PTO

sponsored breakfast, held on August 15. Families heard from our principal Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer, guidance counselor Leslie Smirniw, school nurse Jami Vargo, and members of the PTO. It was a fun, exciting morning for all who attended, and it was capped off by school tours given by students and volunteers.

On August 24, all the returning students were welcomed back to school. Dr. Klousnitzer and staff greeted everyone on the first day with waves, smiles, and hugs.

In early October, the PTO held a successful Fall Scholastic book fair/ice cream social. October ended with the room parents having the harvest party in each of the classrooms. Both exciting events for the students and lots of fun was had by all.

The PTO has been working hard to plan activities for the kids. Thank you to all of the parent volunteers who helped kick off this school year and make it a success. n

An Upper St. Clair High School junior recently earned a Silver Medal from the Congressional Award Program. Autumn Ma, who earned the Bronze Medal in 2021, now has her sights set on the program’s Gold Medal.

According to the program’s website, “the Congressional Award provides opportunities for young people to unleash their potential by achieving personal goals focused on volun teerism, character development, and fitness.”

Requirements for the Silver Medal include 200 hours of volunteer service, 100 hours of personal development, 100 hours of physical fitness and a three-day expedition all over the course of 12 months.

“Autumn has committed her vol untary time by working at the Jubilee Soup Kitchen and fundraising on their behalf by collecting donation items (tooth brushes, toothpaste, deodorants, clothing, shoes, glasses, etc.) or selling baked goods,” said Thu Le, Autumn’s mother. “She has spent the time for her personal development goal to learn how small businesses operate and obtain entrepreneurial skills for a potential career in business management. She has satisfied the exploration requirement for the Silver Medal by self-planning a trip to Lisbon for five days and four nights.”

As a dual enrollment student, Autumn has earned 35 college credits from the Community College of Allegheny County, where she has achieved dean’s list for four semesters. She is also a mem ber of the high school varsity tennis team. Autumn is currently working to earn the Congressional Award Program’s Gold Medal, which is double the requirements of the Silver Medal over a two-year period.

Earning the Congressional Award Gold Medal is Shivani Jajoo, a 2022 USCHS graduate. In addition, Shivani earned a STEM Star for completing STEM activities in her pursuit of her Gold Medal.

The Gold Medal takes a minimum of two years to earn, as one of the key aspects of the program is instilling proficiency in long-term goal setting. Each participant must complete 800 activity hours across four program areas—400 hours of voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development, 200 hours of physical fitness, and con duct a five-day, four-night expedition or exploration trip.

At 549 youth from 41 states across the nation, this is the larg est Gold Medal class in the program’s 43-year history. Shivani is among just 11 Congressional Award Gold Medalists from Pennsylvania in 2022. n

In Defense of the Humanities

Maanasa Reddy, USCHS Senior, TODAY Intern

“When are we ever going to use this in real life?” seems to be the col lective groan echoing in the English wing at Upper St. Clair High School. Some students would rather find a derivative or compute the velocity of a ball falling down a ramp than to ever dare analyze a poem. Every person has their own area of interest in life, whether that’s biology or binging the new Stranger Things season. Recently, it seems this area of interest has been moving further towards science and math subjects over reading and history. Now, this could certainly be the byproduct of a digital age, but the history goes much deeper than that.

In the late 40s, at the end of WWII, the United States came to be one of the leading powers of the world. Keeping that power over other nations was no easy task, of course. Soviet Russia, like the United States, began to accelerate its technological advancements. This began a decades-long rivalry between both countries to be the first, whether in space or on earth. After the launch of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite in space, America had to take action to not fall behind. That meant pushing the next generation towards the very innovation it needed to keep up with its rival. In 1958, the National Defense Education Act was passed for this very reason.

The government specifically provided help to those who would major in subjects that would aid the nation in its push to global glory. Science and technology programs were given a renewed focus in order to push young scholars towards STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields in hopes that they would later help push technological development.

This began a societal push toward STEM disciplines as a whole. Especially in our digital age, science is more important than ever before. Every website we use requires science behind the scenes, whether in computer science or engineering. Undergradu ates realize this as well, with STEM degree growth outpacing other disciplines by over 40% from 2010–2018 according to Pew Research Center. Even within Upper St. Clair High School, AP Biology and AP Calculus classes are certainly not without students.

But is there something missing among all of this?

With the increased focus on STEM learning, liberal arts fields have often been seen as “pointless” or not applicable to “real life.” Or perhaps that those who major in disciplines such as English or history are somehow bound to end up in jobs that are somehow less “worthy” than that of STEM. This belief, of course, glosses over the psychologists, teachers, journalists, lawyers, and other such jobs that require the soft skills that a liberal arts education provides.

Raniya Kethavath, a senior at the high school, provides her thoughts as a prospective English major: “Humanities and liberal arts are very important to study, in my opinion.” Her view is certainly not one-dimensional either, as she adds, “That doesn’t undermine the significance of math and science, but rather adds to it.”

While yes, perhaps a gerund or the exact play-by-play of WWI may not be used on a day-to-day basis of an average’s person’s life, the interpretation and analysis skills that these fields bring certainly may prove useful. With the digital age so intertwined with our personal and professional lives, it can be difficult to see the value of the humanities. However, all the media we consume is a unique blend of numerous disciplines coming together in the form of a TV show. Language arts and visual arts create what is said and what is on screen, while engineering is involved in every step of the creation of a video. Aashna Banerjee is a senior at the high school interested in the life sciences, but her interests do not end there. “For me personally, it was about getting a well-rounded educa tion. I didn’t want to box myself in. I just wanted to make sure I explored everything.” For many students, this is valuable advice. Scientists do not have to stare at beakers in their free time, nor do lawyers have to create paperwork for fun. Each person is their own individual with unique interests, no matter how different each one is.

Ultimately, it is pointless to declare either liberal arts or STEM as the more important field to study, as each serves its own purpose in different areas of society. People also are not bound to the major they choose—it isn’t impossible for a psychology major to become a technology manager, nor is it for a physics major to become a writer. But the truth remains—the humanities are an invaluable part of our collective world, just as STEM has become. Without it, could we enjoy and analyze the media we consume daily? Could I even write this piece? n

Freshmen Field Day

The high school mentor program hosted its 14th annual Freshmen Field Day on Sept. 22 at the high school stadium. The event was led by a team of four seniors—Anna McElligott, Lauren Starr, Yoshna Venkataraman and Dakota Worstell—who serve as the senior leadership team. The team worked with faculty advisors Maureen Chermak (learning support), Mike Funfar (mathematics), Amanda Haas (mathematics), and Tom Marquis (school counselor).

In addition to providing a fun event, the purpose of Freshmen Field Day is to build and strengthen relationships among the ninth graders and their junior mentors. Mentors, assigned to freshmen homerooms, served as coaches and cheerleaders to their mentees during each activity.

The morning kicked-off with a mentor-mentee breakfast in the nutrition center followed by a variety of competitive, team-building events including tug-of-war, dizzy bat relay race, railroad relay, pipeline races, blind-folded dodgeball and others. A team of approximately 25 senior mentors coordinated the activity stations.

This year’s team themes included Mr. C’s Cowboys, Cramer’s Cobras, Guarnaccio’s Glow Sticks, a beach theme, Junko’s Blancos, Senora’s Super Stars, Langley’s Lifeguards, Lee’s Referees, the McNights, Newman’s Ninjas, the RAD-Cliffes, Shefler’s Sheriffs, Strayer’s Players, Thompson Touchdowns, Valentine’s Valentines, Vizzini’s VIPs, and the Forget-Me-Wats. Winners of best costume were Shefler’s Sheriffs, win ners of best spirit were Junko’s Blancos, and the overall winners were Valentine’s Valentines.

The event concluded with lunch in the stadium. The ninth graders were then able to spend time at the school’s annual Rush event. Rush, an activities fair hosted by student council, provides the 60+ clubs with the opportunity to highlight their activities and recruit new members. Freshmen Field Day and Rush are both intended to help students with the transition to high school. As seniors looking back on their total high school experience, members of the senior leadership team were asked what advice they would have given themselves.

“I would tell myself to still try your best, but to stress less because whatever test or situation is causing worry will be a forgotten memory in the near future,” said Lauren. “Do not be afraid to talk to your teachers since they have years of experience and want you to succeed. At the end of the day, go to the sporting events or dances because time really does fly in high school.” n

Students in grade 11 are eligible to apply to serve as mentors to assist freshmen with the transition from middle school to high school. Each freshman homeroom is assigned three to four mentors who provide information, encouragement, and support throughout the year. Each year approximately 60 juniors serve as mentors in the program.

Published Poet

Fort Couch seventh grader Suhavi Singh’s poem, “Fuzzy Angel,” will be included in Creative Communication’s anthology, A Celebration of Poets.

This marks the second time that Suhavi has achieved this honor. In May 2022, Suhavi’s poem, “Freely Free,” was selected for publication. In addi tion, as a fifth grader she placed among the top five in the annual Mahatma Gandhi Creative Writing and Art Contest.

Creative Communication writing contests are open to students in kin dergarten through grade nine. Entries are judged by writers and educators based on literary merit, creativity, and social significance. Less than 50 percent of submitted poems are accepted for publication. n

Learn more about Creative Communications online at poeticpower.com/students

Three Selected to International Futsal Teams

Fuzzy Angel

Suhavi Singh

Ever wonder why rover can’t stay on this planet as long as you do?

You adore the way he jumps up and down and barks with glee as you return from school. He cuddles with you when you’re blue. A pure, sympathetic soul. Always by your side. Snoozes by your feet. A true best friend. All the love you give out in several decades, rover can give in one. When all the love is given out, rover’s job is done.

Three Upper St. Clair student-athletes have been selected to U.S. Youth Futsal (USYF) International teams. Ninth graders Sierra Dupre and Mary Mascaro along with eighth grader Abby Mascaro will compete in Portugal this winter.

This marks the second year in a row that Sierra has been named to a USYF International Team. She will compete on the 2008 team. Mary and Abby will compete on the 2007 and 2009 teams, respectively. Teams are determined by the player’s age.

Futsal is a scaled down version of outdoor soccer played in doors. It is a 5 vs. 5 small-sided game played on a hard surface, basketballsized court with a smaller, low bounce ball. The USYF International Teams are comprised of the top players from throughout the na tion. The athletes train together and represent USYF internationally.

“All three girls participated in several rounds of national ID trials

since April,” said Libby Mascaro, Mary and Abby’s mom and a coach for Beadling Soccer Club and Pittsburgh Assassins Futsal Club. “They competed against the best futsal players in the country at the final round in Kansas in July.”

As incoming freshmen, Sierra and Mary now play for the USCHS soccer team. Sierra plays club soccer for the Riverhounds Academy. Both Abby and Mary compete with the Pittsburgh Assassins Futsal Club and the Beadling Soccer Club.

USYF is the largest youth futsal organization in the country with more than 100 local leagues. Its mission is to grow the sport of futsal and create programs for youth that help provide access to the game. Its programs focus on player development, op portunities for international competition, coach education and referee education. n

Suhavi Singh

Mary and Abby Mascaro

Sierra Dupre

First Day of School 2022

There were smiles throughout the district as students and staff headed back for a new school year. We hope that the moments captured on that day bring a smile to your face as well. n

Photos courtesy of Diane Battaglia, Sheila Gorgonio, Terry Kish, Brooke Tarcson, and Tina Vojtko

Leadership Academy Focuses on Service-Learning

Tina Vojtko, USCSD Communications Specialist

This past summer, 55 rising seventh and eighth graders at Fort Couch developed their skills at Upper St. Clair’s week-long Leadership Academy. Held in July, the Leadership Academy at Fort Couch was led by faculty facilitators Andrew Bowers, Eliza Luxbacher, Thomas Hunsberger, and Michael DaVia.

“Leadership Academy is an exploration of what leadership looks like, sounds like, and means to us—both individually and holistically, when working in teams,” said Michael. “The teacher leaders provide the structure for students to emerge in aspects of leadership in and out of our school buildings.”

An important component of the pro gram is service-learning where students practice and model the core values of leadership that are explored throughout the week, including productivity, team work, reflection, commitment, openness, integrity, honesty, excellence, risk-taking, and courage.

“Through these service-learning op portunities, we hope that our students experience the core values of leadership that we emphasize throughout our leader ship curriculum,” said Michael. “We want students to be exposed to communities outside of Upper St. Clair, and we want students to see that they can be active par ticipants in creating meaningful change.”

Students had the opportunity to volunteer at World Vision, an interna tional humanitarian aid organization, and Hello Neighbor, a local organization that supports recently resettled refugee and immigrant families.

“We want our students to become en gaged in the aspect of service learning,” said Michael. “At each location, students

are working in a collaborative format with the organizational staff to complete tasks such as donation organization, creation of greeting cards, and packing items for individuals in need.”

The Fort Couch Middle School Leadership Academy includes both individual and team work to develop selfknowledge and leadership skills. Students participate in team-building activities that challenge them to see how they can have

an impact in the world’s community. As students matriculate from Fort Couch to the high school, they have the opportunity to participate in the USCHS Leadership Academy. n

Packing boxes for World Vision

Meeting at World Vision office

Sorting items for others

Fort Couch Leadership Academy 2022

A leadership engagement/reflection exercise

America

second

FBLA’s national competition. During last year’s virtual event, he placed fifth in the

to compete at the FBLA National Leadership Conference by placing first at Pennsylvania’s state competition.

students who qualified for nationals included 2022 graduate George Atencio, se nior Keshav Narasimhan, and juniors Grace Atencio and Evie Sullivan.

The Upper St. Clair High School FBLA chapter is sponsored by Pat Manion, social studies teacher. FBLA is a nonprofit educa tional association that prepares students for careers in business by helping them develop leadership abilities, and prepare for entry into, and advancement within, a business or business-related occupation.

All-National Honor Choir High school se nior Edy McCurrie was recently selected by competitive au dition for the 2022 National Association for Music Education (NAfME) All-National Honor Choir. Edy per formed with top high school musicians from all over the country at the NAfME 2022 National Conference in National Harbor, Md. To be eligible to audition for the All-National ensemble, students had to have participated in their state’s 2022 All-State Choir.

Edy, an alto 2, is a member of the USCHS Pantheon Choir, Chanteclairs, Clarion Choir and Voces Lux, under the direction of USCHS choral director Lorraine Milovac. In addition to choir, Edy is a member of the Speech & Debate team, National Honor Society and the varsity girls’ soccer team.

NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The association has supported mu sic educators at all teaching levels for more than a century.

Two Qualify for National Track & Field Championships

High school sophomore Emily Powell and freshman Sadie Tomczyk qualified for the 2022 USATF National Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships, held this past summer in Sacramento, California.

To qualify, both student-athletes medaled at the USATF Region 2 Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships. Emily qualified in the long jump and Sadie qualified in the girls heptathlon, 100m, 400m, high jump and long jump.

Junior Selected to National Lacrosse Combine

Dalton Yates, a junior at the high school, was one of 75 athletes selected to attend the USA Lacrosse combine Aug. 1–3 in Maryland to compete for a spot on the USA Select U16 Lacrosse Team.

A midfielder, Dalton is a two-year mem ber of the USCHS varsity lacrosse team. He earned All-Section honors in the 2022 season. In addition, Dalton plays lacrosse for CW Elite in the fall, winter, and summer.

Rowers Earn All-Midwest Academic Athlete Awards

Two members of the high school rowing team were recently named Midwest Scholastic Rowing Association (MRSA) All-Midwest Academic Athlete Award Honorees for 2021–22. Seniors Keira Fortunato and Markella Jahn are among 52 honorees from 64 high school teams from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and western Pennsylvania.

The All-Midwest Academic Athlete Award recognizes rising senior student-athletes who have performed at a high level athletically and academically. Criteria includes a grade point average of 3.5 or above, an SAT score of at least 1200 or ACT score of 27 or above, and achievement in the finals race of the MRSA Championship or participation in Scholastic Rowing Association of America nationals or world competitions.

This is the 11th year since the establishment of the award, and the first-time student-athletes from Upper St. Clair High School have achieved this honor.

The Upper St. Clair Rowing team is a club sport that is open to students in grades 7–12. Rowing is a three-season sport—fall, winter, and spring, and students may partici pate in any or all seasons. Students are transported via bus from the high school to the boathouse in Coraopolis for practice.

For more information about USC Rowing, visit uscrowing.org.

Mahir Parmar

Edy McCurrie

Dalton Yates

Emily Powell

Keira

Fortunato

Sadie Tomczyk

Markella Jahn

Outreach Offering QPR Training

of the QPR Institute, Dr. Paul Quinnett, conceived of the acronym as a way to draw attention to a life-saving strategy for those contemplating suicide or those who are stressed to their limit.

Suicide is one of the most complex of human behaviors. It is also one of the most difficult things for people to talk about; yet teachers, coaches, school admin istrators, police officers, librarians, priests, and many others may find themselves in a situation in which it is necessary to do so. It is, in fact, these “front-line” personnel that may make all the difference in preventing suicide, just by listening and questioning. QPR training teaches you how. Research suggests that the survival rate of individuals experiencing a heart attack is higher in places where the public have training in CPR (QPR Institute, 2016). That is, those who witness someone having a potentially life-threatening heart attack can help save that person’s life if they have been trained in CPR. It is no accident that QPR sounds similar to CPR. The founder

QPR stands for Q: Question, P: Persuade, R: Refer. The idea is that if we intervene in a mental health crisis, just like we use CPR in a physical crisis, we can save lives. Importantly, QPR is not a form of treatment or a replacement for mental health counseling. Instead, it is a strategy a gatekeeper can use to help save a life. Ac cording to QPR teaching, a gatekeeper is a person who may be in a position to identify possible warning signs that someone may be considering suicide.

You may, like so many others, be concerned that talking about suicide to someone may in fact cause a person to think about or consider it. This is a common myth that is simply not true. We cannot

make someone think about suicide. QPR instructors like to say, “A person is either thinking about suicide, or they are not” (QPR Institute, 2016). Trained gatekeepers of the QPR method can make all the dif ference by allowing for time and creating a space for someone to talk about what they are feeling and experiencing without concern of judgement.

We offer QPR training through Outreach Teen & Family Services by a Certified QPR Instructor. Outreach is a community coun seling agency offering services to young people (children, teens, and emerging adults). We provide training to numerous institutions and organizations including schools, universities, libraries, and com munity centers. The training provides you with the language and tools you may need to help someone in distress and works to break down the barriers people often encounter when talking about suicide. n Contact program manager Maggie Zangara to set up the training by calling 412-561-5405 or visit outreachteen.org for more information about other services. Please note that Outreach does not offer crisis services or response and does not have evening and weekend on-call coverage. In an emergency, please go to your local emergency room or call RESOLVE at 1-888-796-8226.

Caryn Jooste, Outreach Teen & Family Services Outpatient Therapist

Insider Tips to Buying Your New Home in Today’s Real Estate Market

Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®

As we know, it is hard to predict the future. Entering 2023, there are always challenges and opportunities for each of us to undertake. If you were considering purchasing your dream home in 2022 and decided to wait, here are some tips to consider for buying in 2023.

Assess Your Financial Health. Before you fall in love with that “dream” home, make sure you are prepared to purchase it. Do you have a mortgage broker that you trust and can rely on for sound financial help and guidance? Do you have a reliable preapproval? Have you been looking at your bank accounts along with your monthly spending, so you have a clear and realistic picture of your finances? Planning and goal keeping are essential to helping you figure out how much you can afford and how much to put down as a down payment. Also, have you checked your credit score recently? You get one free credit score a year from the top three credit bureaus.

Tip: A pre-approval gives you more negotiating power because it tells the seller and your real estate agent that your personal funding is in place, and you are ready to make your offer on your dream home.

Stay Flexible. Whether it’s time or money, be prepared to give yourself a little more time. In the winter 2022 and spring 2023 real estate market, you want to be ready to put in the offer and to move when necessary. Have you been preparing to put your

home on the market? Purging? Giving items away to family or charity organizations?

Tip: When you find the “dream home,” you want to move quickly to get that listing sign in the front yard. Time is of the essence.

You Found the One. You have found the one that meets all or most of your wish list. Yes, this home is within your price range as you have been diligently looking for a new home. Now is the time to make the offer. Keep in mind that your initial offer should be based on two things—what you can afford and what you really believe the property is worth. If there are other offers, think logically through the process and make good decisions for your future.

Tip: Offer more hand money/earnest money. Sellers like and respect buyers that make a good faith deposit, because they show the seller that they are a serious buyer and hope the sale won’t fall through.

Finally, buying a new home can be a rewarding and exciting time, but also be very stressful. Be prepared and keep these tips in mind. It will be so worthwhile getting those keys to your new home. Good luck! n

See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell Banker Realtor® on this page.

Lynn Dempsey

The retirement you envisioned is here.

Welcome to Providence Point, Pittsburgh’s premier 62+ Life Plan Community, designed especially for you—for the way you live now, with the added peace of mind you want for your future. We put wellness and exceptional healthcare services* at the center of all we do, along with offering spacious residences and unparalleled amenities.

Five Ways to Help Your Retirement Savings Go Further

If you suspect you haven’t saved enough, it’s time for strategic retirement planning.

Today, Americans are living longer than ever, and that means longer retirements than previous generations. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average person spends 20 years in retirement—others say 30 years or longer.

Many financial advisors suggest you’ll need 70–80% of your annual pre-retirement income to maintain your standard of living.

Here are five steps to help get you on the right path:

Decide how you want your retirement to look. Whether you’re planning to travel extensively or kick back by a lake, your income will need to support your lifestyle. Once you decide how you’d prefer to spend your retirement days, you can map out a strategy that could help get you there.

Assess your finances. Take a realistic look at your current financial status. Look at how much you’ve saved, your debt, the amount of life insurance you have, and what you have available in emergency funds. Talk with a financial professional.

Increase savings. It’s never too early—or too late—to add to your savings. If you’ve got plenty of time before retirement, save as much as you can to take advantage of interest compounding. If retirement is near, look into catch-up contributions, which can help improve your financial picture. Even small gains matter: increasing your retirement contribution by one to two% each year adds up over time. Evaluate your savings progress with our retirement calculator.

Knock out debt. Those in the financial industry recommend keeping debt level manageable: no more than 35% of your income. Getting rid of high-interest debt such as credit card balances is always a good idea. And before you retire, you’ll want to elimi nate as much debt as possible so that you aren’t servicing it with your savings. Consider paying off your home before you stop working, too.

Review and revise your plan every year. Review with a fi nancial professional every year to see if you’re still on track. It’s also a good idea to review your insurance coverage periodically, and any time your life changes, such as when you marry or have a baby. As you near retirement, you might decide to shift some of your savings to income-producing investments, such as annuities. Or, to keep your nest egg intact, your plan may be to continue working a few years more into retirement. n

Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on page 41.

Pittsburgh’s Premier Retirement Community

*Providence Point Healthcare Residence was recently rated as one of the Best Nursing Homes in the USA by US News & World Report.

500 Providence Point Boulevard | Pittsburgh, PA 15243 | www.ProvidencePoint.org

Culture of Continuous Improvement Leads to Better Outcomes for Stroke Patients

An average of 1.9 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes un treated, which is why stroke continues to be a leading cause of disability and death. Most people are aware that a stroke can cause irreparable damage. What many may not know is just how frequently that damage is done.

Someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Stroke is a particularly severe problem in Pennsylvania due to the Commonwealth’s large population of older adults. As more Pennsylvanians continue to age, the inci dence of stroke is likely to increase.

“A stroke is a sudden neurological deficit caused by a vascular problem,” says Maxim D. Hammer, MD, Chief of Neurology at St. Clair Health. “It is typical ly caused by a problem with the circulation such as a blocked artery, which cuts off blood supply, or a ruptured or broken artery that causes bleeding in the brain.”

The vascular problem will lead to a sudden neurological deficit or an abrupt loss of function. This neurological deficit may indicate the individual is experiencing a stroke and requires immediate medical attention. It’s critical that you BE FAST to recognize the loss of function or other signs and symptoms of stroke so you can take quick action and perhaps save a life:

B is for Balance—Loss of balance, head ache, or dizziness

E is for Eyes—Blurred vision

F is for Face—One side of the face is drooping

A is for Arms—Arm or leg weakness

S is for Speech—Speech difficulty

T is for Time—Time to call for an ambu lance immediately

The sooner you recognize the symp toms in yourself or a loved one and call for emergency care, the sooner the type of stroke can be determined, and the appro priate treatment delivered. Therapies that

are administered rapidly after the onset of symptoms are vital in preventing disability and death from stroke.

Stroke treatments and survival rates have greatly improved over the last de cade due to recent advances in treatment. In fact, St. Clair is constantly working to maintain and surpass the highest standards of stroke care to produce better outcomes. Dr. Hammer explains, “Every decision we make is designed to continuously im prove treatment times for patients having a stroke.”

Dr. Hammer and the St. Clair Medical Group Neurology team are committed to enhancing stroke care to meet the unique needs of each patient. His research back ground in novel approaches to acute stroke care has inspired new ways to deliver care, including a video-based telestroke program made possible through St. Clair’s clinical collaboration with Mayo Clinic.

Dr. Maxim Hammer

“This is a 24/7 service where a Mayo Clinic stroke specialist will be able to provide video consultation to any St. Clair patient at any time, day or night, when an acute stroke is suspected,” says Dr. Ham mer. “We’re very proud of working with Mayo Clinic because they’re the model of how stroke care is delivered.”

St. Clair Hospital is certified by The Joint Commission to provide the high est level of stroke care. From advanced diagnostic testing to quickly pinpoint the cause, to the most modern inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, St. Clair delivers the care you need, when you need it, all close to home. n

Dr. Hammer is board-certified in both neurology and vascular neurology. He earned his medical degree at Albany Medical College and completed a neurology residency at Cleveland Clinic, where he was elected chief resident. He also completed a vascular neurology fellowship at UPMC. Before joining St. Clair Health, he held numerous titles including Vice Chairman, Clinical Affairs, Department of Neurology; Clinical Director of Neurology; and Director of Stroke Services at UPMC Mercy Hospital. Dr. Hammer practices with St. Clair Medical Group and was named a Top Doctor by Pittsburgh Magazine in 2022.

To contact Dr. Hammer or schedule a consultation, call 412–942–6300 or visit stclair.org/ neurology. See add for St. Clair Health on pages 9 and 83.

Allegheny Land Trust Earns National Recognition

Strong

About Allegheny Land Trust

Founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1993 in response to the rapidly declining amount of green space in Allegheny County, Allegheny Land Trust has protected more than 3,600 acres to preserve our region’s unique natural beauty, provide accessible outdoor recreational opportunities, improve water quality, sustain biodiversity, and enhance the overall quality of life for all. ALT’s strategic priorities are in land protection, land stewardship, community conservation, and environmental education. More information: alleghenylandtrust.org.

About the Land Trust Accreditation Commission

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust, and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. The Commission, established in 2006 as an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, is governed by a volunteer board of diverse land conservation and nonprofit management experts. For more, visit landtrustaccreditation.org.

The Land Trust Alliance’s Land Trust Accreditation Commission granted Sewickley-based land conservation nonprofit Allegheny Land Trust (ALT) with its second renewal as a nationally accredited land trust on August 18, 2022.

ALT is one of fewer than ten percent of land trusts across the country to receive a second accreditation renewal.

“We are committed to helping local people save local land, and to upholding national standards of excellence to maintain the public’s trust as we grow our conservation work,” said ALT president & CEO Chris Beichner.

ALT provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this dis tinction from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. The Commission’s renewed accreditation award signifies its confidence that ALT’s lands will be protected forever. There are more than 450 accredited land trusts across the nation, and they now steward almost 20 million acres—the size of Denali, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Everglades, and Yosemite National Parks combined. Accreditation is awarded to land trusts meeting the highest national standards for excellence and conservation permanence. Each accredited land trust completes a rigorous review process and joins a network of organizations united by strong ethical practices. This trusted network of land trusts has demonstrated fiscal accountability, strong organizational leadership, sound transactions and lasting stewardship of the lands they conserve.

“It is exciting to recognize ALT’s continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction,” said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission.

Events at Wingfield Pines

Christmas Bird Count

Saturday, December 17, 8–10 a.m.

Wingfield Pines Conservation Area

ALT has protected 3,600 acres of woodlands and meadows in 36 different local municipalities since its founding in 1993. Every resident of Allegheny County lives within eight miles of an ALT conservation area. The organization conserves lands that promote biodiversity, protect air and water quality, preserve unique scenic character, provide wildlife habitat, create connections with other green space and offer opportunities for environmental education and out door recreation. Some of the land trust’s well-known green spaces include Audubon Greenway in Sewickley, Barking Slopes in New Kensington, Bethel Green in Bethel Park, Churchill Valley Greenway in Churchill and Penn Hills, Dead Man’s Hollow near McKeesport, Girty’s Woods in Reserve, Irwin Run in Gibsonia, Sycamore Island in Blawnox, and Wingfield Pines in Upper St. Clair.

“We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the thorough accreditation renewal process. Our strength means special places—from our large, rural green spaces to our small, central community gardens—will be protected for ever, making our region an even greater, more resilient place for us and our children,” Beichner said. n

Become a citizen scientist; no experience or equip ment needed! During this hike you’ll learn how to use field guides and iNaturalist to identify and catalogue birds in conjunction with the Audubon Society’s an nual Christmas Bird Count. Then, submit your data to Audubon to help scientists track and monitor bird migration. Bring a pair of binoculars and your favorite bird guide. We will have a few pair of binoculars and guides available as well.

Registration: alleghenylandtrust.org/events

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair A Time to Celebrate 30 Years

in partnership with generous donors who have supported our mission to Enrich our Community Develop Partnerships Award Grants to continually strengthen our community

Members of the Board of Trustees 2022

Jennifer Dempsey

Paul Fox

Gary Giallonardo Meagan Junstrom Terry Kish Gordon Mathews Lauren Mathews Bruce Nelson

Navin Parmer Melissa Randolph Adina Schiffman

Pam Scureman

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

The Board of Trustees sends their best wishes and profound thanks for the amazing efforts of Jennifer Dempsey and Terry Kish, who have been members of the Board since 2018. They each served two terms and are now completing their time on the Board. Their expertise, grace and sincerity have been invaluable assets to the Board during our process of re-branding, our complete legal review of all things “CFUSC,” and promoting Health and Wellness initiatives throughout the community.

Join Our Synergy!

We have openings on the Board and need to fill the chairs held by these two dynamic individuals. Please visit cfusc.org/trustee-application to complete your application and become a member of the Board as we enter our fourth decade supporting special and unique projects in our community.

Justin Schmidt

Ryan Scureman

Jennifer Dempsey

Terry Kish

Community Foundation Grant Update

CFUSC Becomes Legacy Sponsor

The Foundation proudly became a Legacy Sponsor for the USC Robotics Club with the unanimous board approval of a $10,000 grant. The club was established to bring STEAM enrichment opportunities to students. Club sponsor Tracy Smith started the program at the high school and expanded it to the middle schools, where the response has been far greater than expected. This sponsorship will enable the club to create outreach programs to the elementary schools, increase opportunities for middle school, and also engage in community outreach. Visit uscrobotics.org to learn more about this amazing activity. CFUSC is excited to be a sponsoring partner!

Board Approves Grant for Eagle Scout Art Projects for Special Needs Students

The Trustees were intrigued by the unique Eagle Scout Project grant request submitted by Wolfram Schmidt. His project focuses on the creation of a model for a recurring arts event to engage special needs students in ceramic arts with the support Scout mentors. It is a “win-win” for students to express themselves while creating ceramic art and for Scouts to develop skills to better support members of the special needs community.

Save the Date

Mark your calendars for Friday, April 21, as the Community Foundation celebrates 30 years of support and service to Upper St. Clair. Follow our website updates at cfusc.org and watch for details in the next issue of TODAY!

Please Donate Today! Or Buy a Blanket...

Your support enables the Foundation to award grants for worthy projects. You can send a donation to CFUSC at 2585 Washington Road, #131, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 or you can go to cfusc.org and use the donate button. Blankets are also available for purchase through the website. Your blanket purchase helps us to sustain operating costs which we hold to the minimum.

Partnerships Bonding Our Community

Sign up for Foundation eUPDATES by opting-in at cfusc.org and selecting the CONTACT button. You will receive timely information about CF activities and news from these community partners and many more.

Visit

Need

Cuddle Up and Keep Warm!

Price includes delivery by a CF Trustee. Available at cfusc.org

North to Alaska

TODAY’s Spring 2022 edition traveled 4,000 miles by air, ship, and train to arrive at what is often titled America’s last frontier, Alaska. Land of the First Nation indigenous peoples, culture, exploration, and nature is Alaska. It’s not just the scenery and wildlife that makes this trip so special but welcoming locals who love to share their way of life. The Celebrity Eclipse cruise included Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Skagway. Further inland, Hubbard Glacier is famous for being North America’s largest tidewater glacier, 75 miles long and seven miles wide. Traveling 62 miles into Denali National Park to Stony Hill Overlook, the Tundra Wilderness Tour offered incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park, and the opportunity to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. The world mecca for sled dog racing provides a “hands-on” opportunity to meet some of the challengers in the official state sport! n

Need Help Finding A Doctor?

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@usctoday.org, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

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

Jessica Spazok, in Alaska

Kasey Turner (USCHS 2020 ) brought a copy of TODAY to Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois

Beadling Hotel

In 1883, William, Thomas, and James Beadling started the Harrison Mine along Painters Run Creek. The mine came to be known as the Beadling Mine after its owners.

Businesses connected to the local mine began to flourish in the years that followed. One such business was the Beadling Hotel, operating as a boarding house for miners at the intersection of Robb Hollow Road and Painters Run Road. It soon became a hub of the Beadling community.

In 1907, the Davic family purchased the Beadling Hotel. Around 1925, the name was changed to the Upper St. Clair Hotel. In her 1975 oral history, Nelle Davic Delach recalls working as a barmaid in the hotel while her brother, Walter, served as a medic in World War II. During that time, she be gan serving soup and sandwich es, in addition to drinks at the bar. The hotel also boasted one of the first three telephones in Beadling. Messages received on the party line were then delivered by local children to Beadling residents.

Around 1945, the location was renamed Walt’s Tavern, after the owner, Walter Davic, who ran the family business from 1928 to 1968. Always a social center of the Beadling area, the business in its many variations throughout the years served as a place to meet and to eat for the nearby community. After Walt’s Tavern, the location hosted several restaurants but now stands vacant. n

(412) 221-4300 www.calabrotire.com

1476 Bower Hill Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Family Owned Since 1941

Calabro Tire & Auto Service

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

Miners from the Harrison Mine

The Beadling Hotel

Horses with Hope

Thanksgiving,

In the

Tuesday contribu

Hope at horseswithhope.org/donate. If your

a “company-match” program, your donation could be doubled.

This is a wonderful time to sign up as a volunteer with Horses with Hope. Annual volunteer training will be held in early spring before lessons begin next year. As a part of the Horses with Hope team, you truly make a difference for members of your community, helping participants achieve success. Horses with Hope volunteers are an integral part of the team while working to fulfill their goals, achieve personal growth, and experience the satisfaction that comes with being near nature and animals. No horse experience is necessary, and volunteers must be at least 14 years of age. For more information, please visit horseswithhope.org/volunteer.

Horses with Hope is seeking certified instructors to support its growing therapeutic riding program, conducting safe, engaging, and therapeutic riding lessons for riders of all abilities. If you have horse experience, are certified, or are interested in becoming certified, please contact Horses with Hope at horseswithhope.org/contact-us for more information.

Miracles, Rocky, Rex, Nick, Fritz, and Lil’ Scout look forward to seeing you in the Gilfillan fields soon. Save the date for the 2023 Belmont Jewel event on Saturday, June 10, 2023. For more information on Horses with Hope: Discovery, Growth & Learning Programs, visit horseswithhope.org. n

School

School

USC Resident Receives Fulbright Award

Upper St. Clair resident Charlotte McDaniel, PhD, STM, received the coveted Fulbright Association Award for Outstanding Chapter (former) Leader at the annual conference held in Bethesda, MD, this past October.

The Fulbright Program, funded by the United States Department of State, is the premier foreign exchange program in the U.S. It currently serves more than 150 countries with 8,000 alums who have received an appointment since inception in 1946. Begun following WWII by the late Senator J. William Fulbright and signed into effect by former President Harry Truman, it has continued to address the initial mission to enhance peace and collaboration, with attention to education and cultural exchange

Charlotte was recognized for her presidency of the Georgia statewide Fulbright Chapter, and as founding president of the Central Virginia Chapter; the latter was the recipient of an Outstanding Chapter Award in 2018.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Charlotte held an appointment to Finland (2002–03), followed by three additional appointments as a Fulbright Senior Specialist to Sweden (2008), Tunisia (2012), and Indonesia (2013). She also served as an active member of the national Chapter Advisory Board, providing guidance to the Association and Fulbright Board for the betterment of the program.

Charlotte taught at Yale University, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and retired from Emory University in Atlanta, GA. She was also a founding member of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. n

To learn more about the Fulbright

opportunities, visit fulbrighscholars.org.

Rotarian

October 4 will now affection ately be known as Ed Harmon night for the USC boys’ soccer team. The team, the boosters, and the USC Bethel Park Rotary Breakfast Club joined together that night to cel ebrate with Ed’s family, and to honor Ed for a life well-lived.

Ed was a frequent volunteer, past president, Paul Harris Fellow, and dedicated member of the USC-BP Rotary Breakfast Club for many years. After Ed’s passing in April 2022, at the age of 90, his family approached the Breakfast Club to discuss ways to collectively honor Ed’s legacy. Donations were raised for a customized team tent for the USC boys’ soccer team to use during all games. n

Dr. Charlotte McDaniel (right) receiving her award

Doors of Upper St. Clair

Take a drive through the township and you’re likely to find at least one house with decorations on their front door. Whether it’s a holiday, a life milestone, or a favorite sports team, doors and more wel come visitors while reflecting life in Upper St. Clair.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY want ed to share photos of some of the doors we’ve admired during our travels and to encourage you to send a photo of some of your favorites! Please send a photo of your studentathlete’s door sign when his or her sport is in season—bonus if you can get them to pose next to it. Or celebrate a neighbor’s creativity by sharing a photo of their door with the rest of the township. n

To be included in TODAY ’s Doors of USC feature, email your original, high-resolution digital photo of at least 300 dpi, along with a brief description in the body of the email, to usctoday@ usctoday.org, with “USC Doors” in the subject line.

Profiles

Kathy English, a long-time USC resi dent (1981-2009) teamed up with Sara Casey to write a book about the trials and tribulations of non-traditional students returning to school to earn a PhD in musicology.

Climbing the Ivory Tower is avail able at amazon. com, walmart.com, and other websites.

Happenings!

Girl Scout Cookie Season is Just Around the Corner!

Upper St. Clair Girl Scouts will soon kick off another exciting year of Girl Scout cookie sales. While these treats are certainly nostalgic and delicious, Girl Scout cookies are also packed with opportunity for local girls.

Don’t be surprised when you hear knocking at your door in January as girls flex their confidence with traditional neighborhood sales and counting change; but cookie season has evolved a lot over the past few years. Many Girl Scouts use official cookie websites to accept credit card payment and can share their link with friends, family, and neighbors.

Whether you find a Girl Scout in-person or through her website, she’ll be selling traditional favorites like Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-Si-Dos, Trefoils, S’mores, gluten-free Toffee-tastic, and of course the crowd favorite—Thin Mints! USC Girl Scouts are also very excited to share cookies you may not have tried yet, like Lemon Ups, Adventurefuls, and this year’s new Raspberry Rally. Booth sales will begin in late February, and troops of all ages will brave the chilly weather each weekend to set up cookie booths outside local businesses, the post office, church parking lots, and more. Stop by and ask the girls about their goals for the year. It could be an excit ing trip, a week at camp, an educational experience, or a girl-led service project to benefit our community.

If you already have enough sweets in your pantry, you can still help support USC Girl Scouts when you buy a box of cookies to donate. Girl Scouts accept donations for U.S. mili tary troops through Operation Sweet Appreciation, and many of our USC Girl Scout troops will arrange a Gift of Caring—they’ll deliver donated cookies to local organizations such as healthcare workers, educators, or nursing home residents. n

For more details about Girl Scout cookie season in Upper St Clair, or to offer your business as a cookie booth location this year, contact uscgirlscoutcommunity@gmail.com. Want to join Girl Scouts or volunteer? Visit gswpa.org/join.

Kara and Claire, taking cookie orders in their neighborhood

The Labouré Ladies Guild of St. Catherine Labouré Parish will hold its annual Joy of Christmas craft show, with 115 crafters and a Chinese auction and 50/50 raffle. Due to the order of the USC fire marshal, strollers are not permitted.

Date: Saturday, November 19, 9 a.m.– 3:30 p.m.

Location: St. Louise de Marillac School/LeGras Parish Center, 320 McMurray Rd., USC Admission fee: $2, includes one ticket for the Chinese Auction

Kira Brown, a 2008 USCHS graduate, received her promotion to major in the U.S. Army this past July. Major Brown is currently assigned to Joint Base San Antonio–Fort Sam Houston’s Medical Center of Excellence as program director for the nutrition and diet therapy program.

Major Kira Brown, with her parents, Lynn and Knox Brown, at her July 29 promotion ceremony

Elizabeth Kopach Meitzler,

USCHS Class of 2009, recently published her first novel, The Twelve Swipes of Christmas. It’s available on Amazon, just in time for the holiday season!

Amelia is excited about the Girl Scouts cookie sale.

What are you striving for today?

At St. Clair Health, our care teams are driven by a passion to provide world-class, patient-focused care to our neighbors in and around the Pittsburgh Region. That’s why we’ve recruited even more nationally recognized doctors and invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology to support them. So no matter how far you push yourself to achieve, you never have to go far to receive the personalized health care you deserve.

Shaka M. Walker, M.D.

Coldwell

Coldwell

Coldwell Banker System

Brad Templeton

Mary Ann Wellener Faith Williard

York Manager

Kathy Sekeras

South Hills

Dempsey Lane

Kathi Kernan

Ron Graf John Geisler

Barb Hartman

Elaine Krells

Mike Hanley

Heather Linz

Kim Lanphear Julie Leslie

Rachel Mazzie

Rachael Richard Sandi Ricci

Dora Rudick Amanda Nasman

Peters Township Office

Bonnie Loya

Monica Mahla

Suzanne Lorenzi Sala

Gabe Paulick

Mike Podolinsky

Cindy Demel