www.twpusc.org/magazine
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair
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701 Boyce Road at Washington Pike • Bridgeville, PA 15017 Phone: 412-220-2336 • Fax: 412-220-2279 • www.drcherup.com • info@drcherup.com 2
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Winter 2010
•
Volume 16
•
Issue 4
Features and Around the Township
8
List, Making a
Checking it
Twice
12 Casey’s Clubhouse
Learn more about “Every child deserves a chance to play baseball.”
Forty-two years as head football coach—32 years at USC—”re-meet” Jim Render.
“Julie’s Cultural Camp” provided Township youth with global appreciation.
Movies, music, and more! The Community Foundation makes it happen for our residents.
A fundraiser benefits from a teen’s charitable charge.
14 Render Revisited
61 Teen Leads Cultural Camp for Youth
62 Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair 67 Teen Holds Ice Cream Extravaganza
Township 20 USC Recreation and Leisure Department
Looking for things to do? Winter activity at the C&RC is “hot!”
Be transformed and learn about the metamorphosis of the REEC.
Much more than just a place to read, the USC Township Library offers programs for all ages.
Elusive? Maybe. Quality support? You betcha!
USC’s emergency medical services provider shares stories: “Which Hospital?” and “Ambulance Service—Who Pays?”
lair
pper St. C
izens of U Senior Cit
19
United
21
Lifeguard
44
Preparing
22 The Outdoor Classroom—Where Nature Teaches 24 Star-studded Events at Your Library
27 Information Technology at Our Township 30 Tri-Community South EMS
School District
43 Student Alumni Day—50 Years of Sharing
Graduating classes of ’60 and ’61 designed a day of educational experiences for USCHS students.
Follow the school building timeline from the 1790s to 2010.
Eisenhower principal Mark Miller selected as “tops” for his work and vision.
Dating back to 1951, we present a historical list of our District’s principals.
Enjoy the crossword puzzle, then submit your answers to win!
Showdown
48 A Timeline of Schools in Upper St. Clair 53 USC Principal Wins National Award 54 Principals of USC
56 “Paws”-itively PTA
Guides
33 Pinebridge Commons 36 Life Planning 60 Dining
Leaders
Cover
10 The cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, sponsored by Louis Anthony Jewelers, features a family that sells designer jewelry and giftware in an atmosphere that feels like home. See pages 10 and 11 for a feature article about this local jewelry store that has international appeal. Cover and editorial photography provided by April Hubal. Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
3
Years of Community Service
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Andrew McCreery, Finance Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Alison Hess, Advertising Associate
Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Lou Angelo, Dr. John Bornyas, Cindy Brophy, Dr. Mark Cedar, Stacie de la Parra, Karen Dengler-Thompson, Dina Fulmer, Mike Gannon, Paige Gillen (YWG), Mike Grape, Wayne Herrod, Sara Homol, MJ Meenen, Jim Meston, Vasso Paliouras, Paulette Paulin, DMD, Amy Sommer, Mary Lynne Spazok, Jessica Stombaugh, and Jay Walsh. Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for this community magazine. The 64th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township and
School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year, we celebrate 16 years of publication.
The 64 th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.
Board of School Directors
Township Board of Commissioners
Amy L. Billerbeck, President Harry F. Kunselman, Vice President Barbara L. Bolas Frank J. Kerber Bruce L. Kerman Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Angela B. Petersen Louis A. Piconi Rebecca A. Stern
Robert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3 Glenn R. Dandoy, Vice President, At Large Preston W. Shimer, Ward 1 Mark R. Hamilton, Ward 2 Mark D. Christie, Ward 4 Russell R. Del Re, Ward 5 Daniel R. Paoly, At Large
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in
Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.
The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2011 issue and will be published in March 2011. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed to the left. Add $10 to cover international mailings. Errata Kristina King, one of our distinguished 2010 USCHS valedictorians, was not named in the fall 2010 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Kristina entered Boston University this past fall with a full scholarship and was a National Merit scholar and a Presidential scholarship nominee. We wish Kristina much luck in her college endeavors and ask that she accept our apologies for the omission.
Deadline for articles and advertising for the Spring 2011 edition is January 4, 2011. Article Information
Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600
Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681
Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc. 1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com
Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592
4
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Advertising Information
Website www.twpusc.org/magazine Winter 2010
Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us
... meeting your needs TODAY, Tomorrow, and into the Future.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
5
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole
Matthew R. Serakowski
Welcome to our winter 2010 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. This edition most likely finds you hunkering down and getting ready to face the coming winter season and all that it has to offer. When thinking of the impending snow storms ahead of us, the word “normal” comes to mind. But to describe a Pennsylvania winter as “comfortable,” rarely! We hope what you find comfortable is our community magazine as you anticipate its arrival with each change of the seasons. The comfort that it brings is provided in many ways—through familiar stories about familiar people and familiar places in our Township and School District. The appealing nature of the printed word is also found to be calming. While the high tech world in which we find ourselves continues to advance and provide news at the speed of light, holding a magazine and turning its pages has not gone out of style. In fact, the popularity of magazines has increased during recent times. Maybe it’s the familiar sense of touch, or maybe the stories that we share are better absorbed and appreciated on paper. Whatever the reason, we are proud to offer our magazine as a printed source of communication and information for our residents to read and enjoy. In this issue, we’re pleased to provide you with many interesting articles. The Township’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services shares stories about some of its popular and new programs (page 20). The Regional Environmental Education Center describes the reasons for its name change to The Outdoor Classroom (page 22). The Township Library tells of some starstudded events (page 24). Enjoy an article about preparing youths for leadership roles (page 44). You will find a timeline of the school buildings in Upper St. Clair (page 48) as well as a historical timeline of the District’s building principals (page 54). The PTA provides a clever, fun crossword puzzle (page 56), which has developed into a contest with prize give-aways for correct answers. Two of our feature articles are about the youth in our community who have meaningfully enriched the lives of people around them (pages 61 and 67). Yes, “familiar” and “comfortable” are certainly two accurate words to describe UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair. We invite you to share stories of people you know and places you enjoy in and around Upper St. Clair—our familiar, comfortable, and inspiring community. Email us today at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. We wish you the best this winter season and we thank our advertisers who make this publication possible.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org
Upper St. Clair School District 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
7
Making a List, Checking it Twice Mary Lynne Spazok
“Multifaceted” best describes the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. Each December, the volunteer firefighters make a list and check it twice to host Santa’s annual holiday community appearance. To ensure success, this monumental undertaking requires a cooperative spirit from every member. In the 70s, the up-and-coming family neighborhood of Aljo and Skender Drives enjoyed jubilant children who scampered excitedly to the corner upon hearing the exclaim of Santa’s siren. Alas, time marches on and children become teens, who then become young adults with hectic schedules and, shall we say, “more sophisticated interests.” Households matured and the “Santa” visiting numbers dwindled. However, the news in 2010 is that new families in this neighborhood will once again be able to greet jolly ole St. Nick, as those youngsters of years-gone-by are now proud parents themselves who see their own parents in a respectful and understanding light. Isn’t it true that what goes around comes around?
Santa’s List—Stop #1 Santa Claus, a man of mystery, travels the world spreading joy to all those who cross his path. A jolly fellow, he lives at the North Pole and travels great distances. On a usually brisk Saturday just before Christmas, he visits the dedicated women and men of the USCVFD. Arriving at dawn, he quickly looks over the residential “list” (95% of USC Township, or 321 streets) for a last minute check of who’s naughty and who’s nice. After orchestrating the gregarious chant of “Ho Ho Ho” and relishing a scrumptious snack of gingerbread and frosty milk, his mission begins. At 10 a.m. sharp, Santa sets off for stop #2. He waves a hearty farewell and dashes away. History In June 1938 after a fire at St. Clair Country Club, 12 USC Township residents organized the USCVFD. As a result of the fire, insurance companies were set to double residents’ fire insurance premiums because organized fire protection was non-existent. With $250 cash and no real estate, the group was officially chartered as a non-profit corporation in November 1939. The first pumper was stored in a service station located at Route 19 and North Highland Road, owned by charter member Ross Blodgett.
2009-10 USCHS cheerleaders with Santa 8
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
Left to right, front row: Jesse Welling, middle row: Russ Rauch, Chris Goodwin, David Smith; back row: Don DeLeo, John Johnston, Santa, Greg Gerlach
In 1949, an “official” fire station was built on Washington Road across from the Gilfillan Homestead. In 1975, then state representative Michael Fisher assisted in obtaining a parcel of land from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the corner of Hastings Mill and Morton Roads. A second fire station was erected to better serve USC’s southern neighborhoods. In 2010, the Route 19 facility, which houses eight vehicles, is “state of the art.” When Did the Santa Tradition Begin? Current USCVFD secretary Russ Rauch states, “No one at the department recalls when this tradition exactly began. But growing up in the late 50s, I remember watching for Santa to arrive on his fire truck. Back then, Santa made late afternoon Christmas Eve visits. Mostly farms and fields, Santa could cover Upper St. Clair Township in just a few hours.” Now it takes most of the day for Santa to visit each and every neighborhood. Provided there are no fires or other emergencies, Santa begins his neighborhood journey at 10 a.m. and finishes around 4 p.m. If a crisis occurs and Santa and the trucks are called in, the schedule goes “out the window” until after the emergency is over; then it’s back to the route until done. “Yes, Santa has been interrupted many times to direct emergency operations over the years!” said Russ. Give Aways Santa gifts sweet treats. Traditionally, it was a peppermint candy cane, but later the gift changed to red lollipops. Adults welcome nifty gadgets, including ice scrapers, and jar lid and
letter openers. Santa also remembers man’s best friend and carries a supply of dog biscuits for the many “Scouts” along his path. He loves all of God’s creatures, great and small. The Ladies Auxiliary The VFD Ladies Auxiliary began on October 10, 1940, to facilitate raising funds for the much needed equipment and supplies. According to written notes from the Upper St. Clair Historical Society, auxiliary president Nancy M. Young recorded that the “first money-making project was a bake sale from which we cleared $80.25.” They sponsored bingo in the fire hall, marched in parades with the firemen, and worked at the Clifton School playground Fun Fairs. Disbanded during the war years, the auxiliary reactivated in June 1948 and continued through the late 60s. Manpower and Fundraising Manpower, allegiance, and funding are what it takes to operate a first-rate volunteer organization. An annual fund drive sustains the upkeep and maintenance not only of two stations and eight pieces of fire apparatus, but also member training, insurance, personnel equipment, and dayto-day operating costs. Three sources of income (with percentages of total revenue) are: • Annual fund drive (50%) • Pennsylvania state relief (30%). This money is earmarked for the purchase of equipment and firefighter personnel equipment, including bunker gear and air masks. • USC Township general fund (20%) Initially to sustain basic operating costs, fundraising included raffles, carnivals, bingo, and fish fries. However, these events took volunteer members away from training, compulsory equipment
maintenance, and their families. The USCVFD now relies significantly on tax deductible contributions. Early each May, a department endorsed appeal, sent USPS, requests monetary donations from residents and commerce. The USCVFD does not conduct telephone solicitation. There are legitimate fire-related organizations that solicit by telephone, but the USCVFD does not receive any of this money. Russ proudly concludes, “From its humble beginnings of 12 members in 1939 to the current alliance of 58 dedicated members, steadfast funding by friends and professionals secures a resolute USCVFD at 100% volunteer level.” Santa’s List—Stop #2 At his second stop of the day, Santa chitchats with a four-man team from the Rotary Club of Bethel-St. Clair. With spirited bell ringing around the famous red kettle, their purpose is to support the Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania. Santa gently reminds passers-by that “It is better to give than to receive!” This fellowship is a reflection of a Rotarian who recognizes civic duty by participating in worthy community activities. Near perfect weekly attendance, 20 plus-year member Ed Harmon states, “Not only is a Rotarian a leader, but a person who loves people, enjoys helping others, embraces fellow leaders, and takes pride in successful service projects. Commitment and respect with high moral and ethical values is a member who eagerly contributes talent, time, and the wherewithal for the betterment of others.” Whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the simple joy of holiday spirit and winter wonder, rejoice in your heritage! Tradition is cherished. With magnanimous gratitude, the USC Historical Society, the Bethel-St. Clair Rotary, and the USC Volunteer Fire Department extend heartfelt greetings of peace, love, harmony, and good will to all! n Side note: Kudos to USCVFD historian Russ Rauch who, for 34 years, has served in a variety of capacities for the fire department, including president, vice president, secretary, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief, and deputy chief. Russ provided the history of the USCVFD for this article.
spa family
bers of the Ve
mem Santa visits
With Santa are, left to ri ght, his help Lori Jarosh ers and Kristen Campbell
members of Santa visits family the DeCock
Left to right are Ed Harmon, John Donahoe, Keith Jackson, and Bob Theakston Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
9
The World’s Finest Jewelry, Just a Stone’s Throw Away Louis Anthony Jewelers is a local, family business with international appeal.
W h e n L o u a n d Ve r o n i c a Guarino opened Louis
billboards. They have become a moniker by which he is known. As Louis Anthony’s reputation for outstanding jewelry and customer service grew, so did the business. As a result, Lou and Veronica opened satellite stores in the Galleria during the holiday season. It was at these stores that the Guarino children got their first taste of the family business. Amie worked as a sales associate while Lou III and Vanessa made boxes and wrapped gifts. “We laugh when we think back on it,” comments Veronica. “No one would have guessed that my school-aged children could put together such beautifully wrapped packages. And at young ages, it gave them a bit of insight into how to run a business.” In spite of their children’s seasonal positions at the store, the Guarinos didn’t encourage them to join the business. “We made it very clear that we expected them to go to college and work for other people before we would even consider giving them a job,” says Lou. “Both Veronica and I worked for other people. We realized the importance of interacting with many different types of employers and co-workers.” As the staff continued to grow, space constraints forced Louis Anthony out of
their original location and into a newly constructed 2,400-square-foot store in Norman Centre II. Two expansions later, the store now boasts a 6,500-square-foot showroom, including a full-service repair shop, customer lounge, and conference room. In 2001, Lou’s youngest sister, Andrea, who worked for the Pittsburgh Symphony and had close ties to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair became the first family member to join the business. Nine years later, the bond continues to strengthen. Andrea is a large reason for the success of the business, and the birth of her son two years ago was anticipated and celebrated by many customers. The next family member to join the business was Amie. After graduating from Upper St. Clair High School in 1998, Amie attended WVU as a fashion merchandising and design major. Her early goal was to work in New York City, but circumstance and romance kept her in Pittsburgh. After working for several different employers, Amie came to work for her parents in 2005. “Working for other people before starting at Louis Anthony provided valuable insight into how to run a business and helped me further appreciate our strong family bond,”
Anthony Jewelers in 1990, their goal was to create a jewelry store that had the most beautiful jewelry and inviting environment in Pittsburgh. As the two of them grew their business the notion that their children Amie, ten; Lou III, five; and Vanessa, two, would someday join the team was far from their minds. Twenty years have changed things. Not only do two of their children now work with them full time, but Lou’s sister, Andrea, also works for the business, while the Guarino’s youngest daughter, Vanessa, a college student in Florida, works at the store during the summer months and on school breaks. Since opening their original 900-squarefoot store on Fort Couch Road in November 1990 with the money from the sale of Veronica’s wedding ring (which, yes, was replaced many years ago), Louis Anthony (a name conceived by combining Lou’s first and middle names) has grown into a 6,500-square-foot store located in Upper St. Clair’s Norman Centre and is one of the most respected jewelry stores in the industry. Early on, Veronica realized the importance marketing would have on the success of their business. She created a mailing list using phone books and personal contacts that Lou cultivated over his ten-year career at a local jewelry store. Meanwhile, Lou reached out to industry colleagues for advice and support. The Guarinos made phone calls, sent catalogs, and supported community and charitable events. In time, grass roots marketing efforts led to larger scale advertising campaigns. The most notable featured Lou on a billboard with the words “Have we met… yet?” “We needed to create a brand, an identity,” says Veronica. “It felt natural putting Lou up there because he is Louis The Louis Anthony Team— Anthony Jewelers.” People Mike Matus, Veronica & Lou Guarino, Doug Sortino, Lou Guarino III, Andrea Kaczmarek, Lynelle Young, Marian Fuller, recognize Lou because of the Brenda Holt, Amie Guarino Yadouga. Missing from photo Jayne Sterling. 10
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
says Amie. She now acts as assistant buyer under Lou, styles fash- a Beverly Hills boutique, it feels like home. Fresh baked cookies ion shoots for magazines, and is designing her own line, “Amelia are offered daily and the sales team celebrates achievements and Jewel,” which will launch during the holiday season. events with customers. The Guarinos feel it’s those little details Lou III became involved in the business in 2009. A 2003 that make shopping at their store a more enjoyable, intimate USCHS graduate, he lived and worked in New York City for six experience. years. Graduating from NYU with a degree in communications, he On a recent Saturday, a customer bought an engagement ring, worked for two years as a producer and editor for a digital video then proposed to his girlfriend on bended knee in front of the production studio. His experience with technology has made store! Andrea, who sold the couple their ring, ran outside to conhim a natural fit in the marketing department. Since his arrival, gratulate them. “I ran up and hugged them and then proceeded Lou III has launched a Louis Anthony blog, Facebook page, and to dish out some quick marital advice,” laughs Andrea. “It was a monthly email newsletter while updating and maintaining the really a sweet moment.” Louis Anthony website. Lou III, who also works on the sales The Guarinos cherish the opportunity to help people create floor, recently participated in “Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest,” a charitable lasting memories and mark occasions. “It’s exciting for me that event to benefit Cystic Fibrosis and finished third place overall in my 30-year career in the jewelry business I still take care of in proceeds raised over the 15-year people I grew up with in Upper St. history of this annual event. Clair, along with my children’s friends Vanessa, who graduated from that I’ve known since they were in USCHS in 2007 jumps at the opgrade school. They can shop anywhere, portunity to work at the store when but they choose Louis Anthony to be a home from college on breaks. Her part of their special occasions.” career plans in journalism will The entire Louis Anthony team— require an internship this coming family members and employees—shares summer, but she intends to keep the desire to create and maintain a abreast of the store’s activities. sense of community, and to build long As owners of a local, multilasting, meaningful relationships with generational business, the customers. “We are very fortunate,” Guarino family has strong ties to the the Guarinos agree, “to work in a Pittsburgh community. Lou grew happy business of helping people create up in Upper St. Clair, while memories.” The family, the employees, Veronica was raised in neighboring and the lifetime customers all play an Scott Township. The two generequally important role in validating ously give to local charities by the store’s motto that “each day is a volunteering their time and donatgift.” n ing merchandise, holding women’s and children’s causes closest to their hearts. Veronica is on the board of the 25 Club of Magee Women’s Hospital and Lou served as a board member for several years Vanessa Guarino works part time during school with TELI, an early intervention breaks. program for children with physical and developmental delays. In October, Lou was commissioned to design a pin for former Secretary of State Madeline Albright. He created a brooch that honored her efforts to promote world peace and presented it to her earlier this month at a speaking engagement in Pittsburgh. Earlier this year, Louis Anthony was featured in the April 2010 issue of Town and Country magazine as one of the most important retailers of Italian jewelry in the United States. “Our customers travel the world,” says Lou “and they always come home saying that our store and merchandise are the most beautiful they’ve ever seen.” Along with carrying well-known designers, including David Yurman, Roberto Coin, and Rolex, Louis Anthony has jewelry from artisans that create one-of-a-kind pieces in tiny workshops in Italy. The unique ability to offer exceptional, high-end merchandise in a relaxed, family atmosphere is what sets Louis Anthony apart. Louis Anthony Jewelers turns 20! “People are surprised to discover that we are a family owned busiLouis Anthony Jewelers, 1775 North Highland Road, USC, PA 15241, ness,” says Lou III. “Their impression is usually that we’re part 412-854-0310, http://www.louisanthony.com, http://blog.louisanthony.com of a larger organization.” But while Louis Anthony may look like Winter 2010
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Casey’s Clubhouse Wayne Herrod
If I were to tell you about an organized baseball league, you might Field with Douglas Watkins (then Township Manager). The idea call it ordinary. If I were to tell you the athletes were physically and was relegated to the back burner when they realized the timing mentally challenged, you might call it touching. If you could see them wasn’t right, the funding wasn’t available, and there wasn’t a suitplay, you would call it a miracle.—MLBA website able site in USC upon which to build the field. Years later when Sean and Mandi Casey are the driving forces be- Sean approached the Township, suggesting that he could make it hind Casey’s Clubhouse and their drive is to build a Miracle Field work and raise the money, moving ahead with the project became in Upper St. Clair. “Every child deserves a chance to play base- a reality. The site at Boyce Mayview was perfect, and with private ball” is the theme of Casey’s Clubhouse and the Miracle League funding the need for Township funds was not an obstacle. Baseball Association. A Miracle Field is a complex designed with Matt said, “All communities will have access to this field. It will a cushioned, rubberized turf. It has wheelchair accessible dugouts not only be for special needs kids that want to play ball, but also and completely flat surfaces to alleviate barriers for handicapped for their “buddies” who will work with them. There are families and visually impaired children. This program is dedicated to right now in USC, Peters, Mt. Lebanon and others who travel to giving special needs children the opportunity to hit, throw, and the Cranberry Miracle Field to play and help out. It will be good take the field. for our middle and high school students to join this project as “I first became involved with special needs kids during my buddies and help the special needs kids. I believe that they will senior year in college. I did some volunteer become more caring and responsible young work with the Cerebral Palsy groups,” said men and women as a result of this program. Sean. “They were so into it mentally, but This is so much more than just a baseball their bodies couldn’t respond. That expefield.” rience opened my eyes and developed my When asked about Sean’s importance appreciation for the handicapped and disto the program, Matt responded, “It could abled. During my professional ball career, I not be done without him. Sean and Mandi continued to work with similar programs, have brought their energy and passion to including Challenger programs and Miracle this project without asking for anything in Fields in the cities that I played in.” return. They are a pleasure to work with “Mandi and I want to continue the and we are happy to have them as residents league’s history of bringing special kids of our Township.” together in a special environment,” said I asked Sean about his goals and the Sean. “She’s as involved as I am. Mandi was project’s timeline. “To get the money raised a special education teacher and her sister and to build the field as soon as possible,” has special needs. This project has been in Members of the Casey family, left to right are Sean, he said. “I would love for it to be done Andrew, Jacob, Mandi, baby Jillian, and Carli our hearts for years.” sometime in 2011, but 2012 is probably “Why now?” I asked Sean. “It’s the right time and place,” he more realistic. I’d like to thank those who have helped to get said. “Upper St. Clair is our home and Mandi and I want to give this project underway: Matt Serakowski, Kyle Robinson, Mark back to baseball, a sport that has given us so much. While the Miller, David Hall, and Brett Pitcairn. Their help and support has field will be located here, it will be for everyone’s use. I believe been invaluable. I am looking for more help and in many areas— that the Miracle Field will bring love, friendship, and a certain whether as a buddy, a volunteer, or a private or business donor. sense of commitment and community to the South Hills that, Building this will not be inexpensive, but, I believe that it will be right now, we can only imagine.” worth every penny—a win-win for everyone.” The idea for this project began a while ago when Mark Miller, Let’s all pitch in to help the Caseys bring a Miracle Field to principal at Eisenhower Elementary and longtime friend of Sean’s, Upper St. Clair. Under the direction of the Miracle League Baseball heard about the project. Mark introduced Sean to Kyle Robinson Association, there are 100 Miracle Fields in play right now, with (recently retired USC Township Director of Public Works). Kyle 100 more being built. Wouldn’t it be great to have one right here was sold on the project from the beginning and spent a lot of his in Upper St. Clair? n personal time exploring a possible site. After many considerations, Author’s Note: the Boyce Mayview Park complex met the criteria and seemed A part of my job responsibility for the Washington Wild Things baseball the perfect fit. team is to run special events. I cannot begin to describe the feeling I get A meeting was set up among Township Manager Matthew when I see the joy of a special needs person who gets to come on the field Serakowski, Sean, Mark, and Kyle to discuss the proposed projand run bases at one of our games. Usually one of the player’s “buddies” assists. I honestly can’t distinguish who has the bigger smile when they ect. At the outset of the meeting, Matt pulled out a DVD from finish their homerun trot, the kid or his buddy. Just imagine when these his file drawer. The DVD was of an HBO show about the Miracle kids can actually play a game. It will be a special time. League program. Little did everyone know that Matt, a baseball enthusiast, was already interested in the project. For more information on the Upper St. Clair Miracle Field project, visit Almost ten years ago, Matt (then Township Director of www.caseysclubhouse.org. Community Development) discussed the possibility of a Miracle 12
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Render Revisited Jim Meston
When Upper St. Clair High School started its 2010 football season, it marked the 42nd year that Jim Render has been a head high school football coach, 32 of those years as USC’s head coach. Throughout those years he led his teams to many titles and winning seasons. He began the 2010 season with 335 wins, making him the winningest coach among all Pennsylvania active coaches. He achieved this record by employing his longstanding leadership style and coaching philosophy and adding the contributions from his outstanding assistants. Twelve years ago, I wrote an article for UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY which featured Coach Render. I shared Coach Jim Render—42 years as head coach, 32 at USC information about his background and told of his core values. Much has happened since then, which allows his supportive role in the process, but he realizes that college me to share a great follow up story. Jim credits Dick Haines, his high school coach at Dover High coaches conduct their own evaluations to know whether or not School in Ohio, with demonstrating the traits of a successful they want to recruit a player. Jim says parents sometimes want him to be more influential coach. He also learned a great deal from Ara Parseghian, his coach at Northwestern before transferring to Wittenberg University, when it comes to recruiting, even suggesting that he convince where he continued to be exposed to quality coaching. All of his the coach to take the player as a “walk on”—no athletic scholarcoaches have been inducted into various Halls of Fame. After ship, but a chance to tryout for the team. Bombarding a college taking a couple of assistant coaching jobs in Ohio, he enrolled coach with this type of request can easily ruin creditability for in graduate school at West Virginia University and secured a the high school coach. Jim willingly offers his realistic appraisal of a player when asked by a college recruiter, which graduate student coaching position under legendthey frequently do. ary coach Bobby Bowden. While at WVU, Jim Jim says he is very proud of his playlearned Bowden’s coaching style—get the Render’s Records ers who go on to play football at the best assistant coaches you can, delegate • PIAA State Champions: 1989, 2006 next level, but he’s equally proud of responsibility, and hold them account • PIAA Runner-up State Champions: 1992, his former players who have become able for their results. This style has 1997 successful in whatever occupation epitomized Jim’s coaching method • WPIAL Champions: 1988, 1989, 1992, they chose. He considers them all for 42 years. While Coach Bowden 1997, 2006 professionals. wanted Jim to continue as assistant • WPIAL Runner-up Champions: 1990, Not many young boys have the deep coach at WVU, Jim knew that his pas 1993, 1994, 1995, 2003 desire to play football. Those that do pay sion for coaching was ultimately with a price. They endure the conditioning, dishigh school players. cipline, sacrifices, and exertion that it takes to While Jim was coaching at Uniontown play competitively. To successfully lead these boys High School, Upper St. Clair’s head coaching posiwho have made this commitment requires someone with tion opened up. USC’s athletic director (at that time) Carl Lindstrom remembered something that Joe Moore (USC’s head the mentality of a drill sergeant, a deep knowledge of how to coach from 1973 to 1975) told him about Jim and his well- teach fundamentals, the administrative skills of a chief execuprepared “Render coached” teams. Jim interviewed for the USC tive officer, a firm understanding of motivational strategies, the position and was hired for the 1979 football season. That first USC personal competitive drive to model “being the best you can be,” season was the only losing record year (more losses than wins) and the ability to bring out the best efforts of the players and the that Jim has had. Each year, a “Render coached” team has been coaching staff. For 42 years, Jim Render has demonstrated that he possesses competitive against the many formidable teams on its schedule. all of these characteristics. He’s tough. And while the players don’t always enjoy what they’re being asked to do, the respect that they Render Reflections Jim’s satisfaction with coaching high school players is simple— give Jim is evident. The number of former players who return year he’s inspired by young people. He enjoys working with the players, after year to visit Jim speaks volumes of the respect they have for helping them to become better, and instilling in them the desire to him and what they experienced as student athletes under Jim. be competitive, integral members of a successful team. His prime objective is not to develop collegiate players. If that happens, it’s Upper St. Clair Football Coaching Staff Jim likes to quote someone who said “If you see a turtle sitting a plus. His main objective is to develop the talent he has to allow the team to become as good as it can be and well represent on a fence post, he didn’t get up there by himself.” He chooses his the high school. He’s pleased when a player elevates his own coaching staff with deliberation and says he is pleased with the performance to get nods from college scouts and acknowledges high caliber of men coaching along side him. Who are they? 14
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John Trovato, defensive coordinator and line backer coach; Dan Stellute, offensive line coach; Terry Coleman, offensive line coach; Rich Piccinini, defensive back coach; Pat Corr, head freshman coach; Shawn Morton, offensive backfield coach; Tim Robbins, defensive line and tight end coach; Charlie McKinney, defensive line coach; Damien Patragas, outside linebacker coach; and Dan Zelinski, freshman coach. Some of these men are high school teachers, some are retired, others have jobs outside of the school environment. They all contribute to the coaching team and most have been with Jim for many years. Their coaching activities include a seven-day work week, which begins with the Friday night game. Some coaches are off scouting the next week’s opponent—videotaping the game and detailing what the opponent does in specific situations. These so-called “tendencies” are carefully studied to help USC develop its best game plan. On “after game” Saturday mornings, the team assembles to stretch and lightly exercise, then watch game film from the previous night. On Sunday evenings, the coaches gather to evaluate film and data about next week’s opponent. Jim is recognized for his ability to promote dissent, which brings all opinions to the table. Of course, the head coach makes the final decision, but only after all options are thoroughly evaluated and an agreement among coaches is reached. On Mondays through Thursdays, daily practices are held and the week’s game plan is worked on.
School in its football program’s 50th year. He called them the “golden anniversary team” and he challenged them to step up to that responsibility. His letter went on to reflect upon the many great players that preceded them and on their accomplishments. The list of names was long and impressive. He concluded his letter by writing, “You will be representing 50 years of excellence. It is the job of the coaches to mold each position into a team. There has never been a Hall of Fame player who did not depend on and give credit to his teammates. By the way, my best teams have always had guys who like each other first. Then it became easy to fight together against an opponent.” Each year’s letter contains inspirational quotes from famous people that relate to striving for excellence. In his 2010 letter, he shared his observations about the many good things he sees in this year’s group. He acknowledged his perception of how much they respect each other—a quality that Jim sees as essential for a successful team. He challenged them to join with him in the pursuit of a championship, something he hopes for every year. Jim says he has dealt with players (and parents) in, most likely, every probable scenario. He doubts if there is a situation that he hasn’t experienced. Most have been positive and satisfying, but not all. It’s understandable that there will be times when a player and his parents might not agree with Jim’s decision. Not everything Jim does pleases everyone; no one could expect that to be possible. Jim is competitive by nature and has been known to sometimes react emotionally in an intense game. The trophy case in the How Long Will He Coach While Jim is not as old as Penn State’s Joe Paterno, he’s prob- high school’s athletic wing has an enlarged photo of Jim squarably asked as often as Joe is about how long he plans to coach. He ing off nose-to-nose with an official during a game—obviously has no plans to retire and wants to continue coaching as long as quite vocal about his disagreement with the official’s call. The he can count on three things and as long as high school football photo, autographed by Joe Paterno reads “Neither one of us can remains an important, viable activity in Upper St. Clair: keep our mouths shut.” Jim hates to lose and he will show his • He’s having fun and enjoying working with the boys to build a emotional side. Even with age, it’s doubtful he’s changed much winning team that reflects well upon USC in that regard. • His health remains good In the 1998 article, I said that as good as Jim is and as suc• He is surrounded by a quality coaching staff cessful as he has been, he is no Saint James. He has his critics. In a job like his you can’t expect to please everyone all of the time. The Render Touch Jim liked that comment, and he definitely agrees that he’s not Each year before the first practice, Jim writes a letter to his ready for canonization. But, he is an intensely dedicated man squad. In 2008, he penned a two-page letter informing the players of tremendous experience and ability who is committed to his that they should be honored to represent Upper St. Clair High coaches, his players, and Upper St. Clair High School. It’s obvious that the school and the players are fortunate to have him. As Jim grows older, he’s been blessed to enjoy another milestone. Jim and his wife of 36 years, Pam, recently became proud, new grandparents when their son, J.T., and his wife, Wendy, gave birth to their first baby girl, Ruby. Almost assuredly, Ruby Render will be competing in some form of sports as she grows up. Her genes are projected in that direction. Whether Jim likes it or not, he has become a widely-known celebrity in Upper St. Clair and among the high school coaching profession. Arguably, he has achieved the status Jim Render, doing what he does best—coaching his players of an icon. Long may he coach! n Winter 2010
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Doorsof
USC
Isn’t decorating fun? Attention to detail
A snowman welcomes its visitors.
All-out decorating with wreaths, fruit, bows, and garland!
is important when adorning our homes. Those who like to “change it up” enjoy the decorating adventures that surround the seasons and the many secular and religious holidays throughout the year. As a part of this routine, we include embellishments to our front doors. Last winter, TODAY ventured out into snow drifted Upper St. Clair neighborhoods to find many seasonally-decorated doors. From Santa, who watches from his second floor perch, and garland and swag bows that flank a pineapple-etched glass door (the ultimate symbol of hospitality), to wreaths and bows of greens and reds, and a whimsical wooden snowman, the decorated doors of USC homes vary in style and complexity, but are always welcoming! May your front door open generously and often when you open your heart and home to those who come knocking. Happy winter season to all USC residents! n Spring, summer, fall, winter… send a photo of your decorated front door for placement in a future feature article of “Doors of USC.” Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Attach high quality digital photo. Place “Doors of USC” in email’s subject line.
Will Santa find you being naughty or nice?
An etched glass front door showcases a pineapple—the symbol that represents a sense of welcome, good cheer, human warmth, and family affection.
L u m i n a r i a Luminaria have come to represent warmth, peace, and friendliness in Upper St. Clair and draws visitors from far and wide to enjoy our candlelit streets. Order by Friday, December 3. Delivery on Saturday, December 11. Luminaria kits, including 12 candles, bags, and sand, are $10. The luminaria sale is sponsored by the USC Band Parents Association. Proceeds benefit USCHS music department students. For more information, call 412-914-0543, 412-851-1199, or visit www.uscbpa.org. To purchase online, visit http://www.uscbpa.org/uscbpa_luminaria.html.
Luminaria Kit Order Form Name: _________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________ Zip: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________ Number of kits _______ x $10 per kit = $ _______Total enclosed Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association Mail to: USC Band Parents Association 1608 Upper St. Clair Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 16
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Traveling with TODAY
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is proud to travel with you, too! Read the following criteria to find out how. • Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) with his or her TODAY magazine in hand. • Digital photo preferred, but hard copy 35 mm also accepted. ‣‣ For digital, attach one jpg photo of at least 300 dpi, and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. ‣‣ For 35 mm, attach post-it to back of hard copy photo, listing the required information (see below). • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location. • List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc. • Include your email address or telephone number should further contact be necessary. • Deliver one 35 mm photo with details to the USC Township receptionist in an envelope marked “USC TODAY,” or • Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.
TODAY Travels with Santa Mary Lynne Spazok
After a whirlwind “around the world in 24 hours” trip this past December, S. Claus, resident of the North Pole, recently traveled to the ’burgh. A vacation highlight was a visit with the Penguins—the Pittsburgh Penguins and Lord Stanley, of course! Continuing on to the sunny South Pole, Mr. and Mrs. Claus enjoyed flamingos and a scrumptious luau, taking time to enjoy the spring 2010 edition of TODAY. Santa is pleased to be featured in this holiday issue. Due to another hectic December schedule, the Clauses regret not being available for an exclusive interview, but wish all USC residents a happy holiday season! n
Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published.
Winter 2010
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Township Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski
President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2011*
Glenn R. Dandoy
Highlights of Board of Commissioners’ Meetings June 7, 2010
Approximately 16 people attended.
Proclamations and Recognitions • Commissioner Orchowski presented a proclamation to F. Kyle Robinson, former Director of Public Works, recognizing him for 40 years of service to the Township. Kyle was instrumental in developing the Neighborhood Park System for the Township among numerous other projects vital to the progress of the Township.
Recognitions • Scott Brilhart, Director of Community Development, explained that representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently recognized the Township for its participation in the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System. The Township’s involvement in the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes the participating community’s floodplain management activities to qualify residents for discounted flood insurance premium rates. He stated that the Township is now classified as a Class 7, which provides residents with a 15% reduction in flood insurance premium rates. There are approximately 70 properties in the Township which participate in the program and receive the benefit of reduced flood insurance premium rates.
Vice President, At-Large Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-6243 2011*
Preston W. Shimer Ward 1
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2011*
Mark R. Hamilton Ward 2
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-478-2812 2013*
Mark D. Christie Ward 4
Day 412-831-9000 2013*
Russell R. Del Re Ward 5
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-3336 2011*
July 6, 2010
Approximately 16 people attended.
Kyle Robinson (center, holding proclamation), and his wife, Kathy (left), are flanked by members of the Public Works Department and Commissioner Orchowski (back right). The Board • Adopted Bill No. 4-10 regarding PLC10-0002-Verizon Wireless-Colocation of antennae on monopole at Upper St. Clair High School stadium. • Directed Staff to apply for DEP 902 Grant (should it become available) for partial payment of toters for automated refuse/ recycling collection. • Approved Bill No. 5-10 authorizing the issuance of and awarding its $375,000 principal amount, General Obligation Notes, Series PNC-2010, at a private sale. • Adopted Resolution No. 1509 to purchase property at 2023 Washington Road. • Approved Bill No. 6-10 amending the Code of the Township entitled “Civil Service Board” to include “a four-year degree.” • Adopted Resolution No. 1510 authorizing the Township to enter into a multi-year agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for Comprehensive Road Maintenance. Board Approval of Contracts • Abeck Electrical Contractors, Inc., Pittsburgh..... $303,000 800KW, Diesel-Fueled Emergency Generator Appointments and Reappointments • Approved appointments and reappointments to the Youth Steering Committee ‣‣ New Appointments/Four-year Term: Lisa Schrott, Tina Seech ‣‣ Reappointments/Four-year Term: Amy Billerbeck, Angela Petersen, Celia Evans, Ed Kavo
The Board • Continued public hearing for the Approval of PLC100001–Clearwire PA–Colocation of Antennae and Microwave Dish on Monopole at Upper St. Clair High School stadium– Conditional Use Approval to the regular Board meeting of August 2, 2010. • Adopted Decision USC-POC 1-2010 granting Amended Tentative Approval to PLC10-0003–BSI Properties, LLC– Emergency Generator. • Authorized a $50,000 payment to REEC (Regional Environmental Education Center) for operational support of Boyce Mayview Park Programming in budget year 2010. • Approved a contract with Better Maintenance and Cleaning in the amount of $378,572 for Township facilities custodial services.
August 2, 2010
Approximately 16 people attended.
The Board • Adopted Bill No. 7-10 granting Conditional Use Approval Re. PLC10-0001–Clearwire PA–Colocation of Antennae and a Microwave Dish on an existing monopole at the Upper St. Clair High School stadium. • Continued Public Hearing re. PLC10-0004–1581 Bower Hill Road, Conditional Use Approval for Change in Use from a plumbing business to a parking facility subject to certain conditions. • Adopted Resolution No. 1512 to establish the Public Hearing re. PLC10-1302 amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township Code entitled “Zoning” for Oil and Gas Drilling Operations to the regular board meeting of Monday, October 4, 2010. • Adopted Bill No. 8-10 granting preliminary and final subdivision approval to Deerfield Manor Plan No. 7, Revision No. 4, located at 1270 Redfern Drive block/lot number 670-G-180 and 670-G-65 subject to certain conditions. • Adopted Resolution 1513 approving the 2011-2015 Capital Improvement Program. Board Approval of Contract • Morton International, Inc., Chicago, IL. ............$51.40/ton 2010 Rock Salt
All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.
2010-2011 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates Daniel R. Paoly At-Large
Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2013*
• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. • The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. • The Parks and Recreation Board meets at the C&RC the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December. • The Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. • The Civil Service Board meets as needed. • The Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.
Visit the Township’s website www.twpusc.org
*Date indicates expiration of term.
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Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair
(USC-USTC) enjoyed a busy summer. The group launched its summer events with a picnic at the Boyce Mayview Park pavilion, where its members enjoyed the natural sights and sounds around them. Members traveled north to Conneaut Lake, where they lunched at the old hotel, cruised around the lake on the Barbara J, reminisced while exploring a museum full of wonderful artifacts (including a laundry tub and flat iron), and made a final stop at a local winery for a tour and wine tasting. The seniors closed out summer with another picnic and corn roast. Fall was no less busy, with a book talk given by Helen Palascak, director of the USC Township Library, the annual banquet held at The Club at Nevillewood, a celebration of Oktoberfest at the Hofbräuhaus at the SouthSide Works, and a flu-shot clinic and health fair. Upcoming programs and events include a trip to the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum, a performance of the Tapestry choir, a seminar on Medicare issues and enrollment, the traditional Thanksgiving feast, and the annual holiday luncheon.
Look for other older adult activities at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview. (C&RC membership is not required.) • Game and Card Club—first Thursday of the month, 1:30-3:30 p.m. • Crafter’s Workshop—second Thursday of the month, 1:30-3:30 p.m. • Older Adult Movie Day—third Thursday of the month, 12:30 p.m. show time Other classes and activities are listed in the Recreation Programs booklet or online at livesmarterplayharder.org. n Please Join Us! The members of USC-USTC cordially invite you to join. Retired residents, age 55 and older, are eligible for membership in the program, which is sponsored by Upper St. Clair Township’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. The group meets every Wednesday, usually at the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road. The Recreation Center is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for the Township’s senior citizens. A hot lunch is served after a short business meeting at 12:30 p.m. For additional information about the Township’s program or other services available, including registration for ACCESS, the Port Authority Senior Citizen pass, and/or the Recreation Department’s Silver Card, contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, at 412-221-1099, extension 603 or kerman@twpusc.org.
Lunch on the water
Boarding th
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Picnicing at Boyce Mayview Park
Resources for Seniors Silver Card
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair are entitled to apply for a Silver Card that will admit holders to the Upper St. Clair Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, and to attend other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card program. Applications are available at the Community & Recreation Center.
Gold Card
Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. See and enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District. If you are a resident 62 years of age or older just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card. It’s a great way to experience your community!
Winter 2010
Attention Senior Citizens, age 65 and older: To register for the ACCESS 65 PLUS shared-ride transportation program or for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen Identification Card to be used for the Port Authority Transit system, please contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, 412-221-1099, extension 603.
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USC Recreation and
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Give the Gift of Health
The Community & Recreation
Center (C&RC) now offers gift cards that may be redeemed for all programs, guest passes, daily admissions, personal training, swim lessons, land and water group exercise classes, and more! To learn more, visit the C&RC during normal operating hours or call 412-221-1099. www.livesmarterplayharder.org What’s New at the C&RC and USC Recreation? Yogalates All Levels Yoga Flow Fitness Swimming for Adults Adult Learn to Swim Competitive Stroke Clinic Art Adventures Together (Ages 3-5 with adult) Dinosaur Day Spy Science Slime, Goo, and Globs Pre-K Watercolors Snapology (A variety of Lego® programs, ages 2-13) LabRatz Science Club Youth Yoga Swim & Gym Friday Fun for USC 4th Graders ’Tween Cuisine Adult Studio Painting (Watercolor/Acrylic) Adult Cooking 101 Game & Card Club Crafters’ Workshop Older Adult Movie Day (Free)
USC Recreation Holiday Camps Kids Just “Wanna” Have Fun Have some fun while you’re home over winter break! Come to a three-day camp to do all sorts of neat stuff. We’ll be romping indoors and out (weather permitting), swimming, doing arts and crafts, playing games, and having a great time. Pack a lunch. You’ll need the fuel for the afternoon of fun! Days/Dates: Tuesday-Thursday, December 28-30 Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Place: C&RC, as posted Age Requirement: Kindergarten through grade 6 Fee: $50 C&RC member / $55 resident non-member Snapology’s Lego® Animation Camp Create amazing movies with stop motion animation using Lego® bricks. Children work in teams under guided instruction to make a digital movie using stop motion techniques. By the end of the camp, each team will have produced its very own movie, complete with dialog and sound effects. The best part is, the movies are loaded to a website to allow teams to show their friends and family how cool they are! Days/Dates: Tuesday-Thursday, December 28-30 Time: 9 a.m.–noon Place: C&RC, Community Room A Age Requirement: Ages 8-14 Fee: $99 C&RC member / $109 resident non-member
C&RC SCUBA Program
… off and sinking to coral reefs across the Caribbean! After a summer training season that produced 15 new certified divers, recent graduates of the USC scuba program began exploring warm waters from Cancun to Curacao. “It was a wonderful trip” said Sharon Holub, whose two sons, Ian and Ross, completed their training at the C&RC and left for the Netherland Antilles a few days later. “The boys were very well prepared for the ocean.”
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“I never expected a scuba course to include restaurant recommendations in Mexico... night diving tomorrow,” texted Steve Mesinere from Pablo’s Backyard in Cozomel. “It’s a unique program,” said instructor Scott Wertman. “Without the commercial pressures of a retail scuba store, we have time to cover more than the base skills needed for certification. We understand that many of our members will be vacationing and diving in tropical destinations. I try to use my experience to prepare them for the local conditions, wind, current, underwater visibility, and of course, restaurants.” The youngest C&RC diver, Morgan Cook, and newest, Mark Puskar, received Winter 2010
Blood Drive Be someone’s hero. In fact, you may help as many as three people with just one blood donation. The demand for blood in our region continues to grow. Approximately 60% of the population is eligible to donate blood, but only five percent do so. It feels great to donate! • It’s something you can spare—most people have blood to spare; yet still, there is not enough to go around. • You will help ensure blood is on the shelf when needed—most people don’t think they’ll ever need blood, but many do. You are eligible to donate blood if you: • Are in good physical health • Weigh at least 110 pounds • Are at least 16 years old. There is no upper age limit. • Have not donated whole blood in the past 56 days Days/Dates: Tuesday, November 30 Time: 1-7 p.m. Place: C&RC, as posted Age Requirement: 16 years old (parent permission required) and older n
Sam Mesinere and his mother, Sandy, gave blood at last year’s blood drive. It was Sam’s first time to donate blood.
their certifications during a September trip to Fort Lauderdale. The first student to certify through the program, Chuck Heisler, has already completed training for the Advanced Open Water and Enriched Air Ratings. The fall/winter scuba classes at the C&RC, including Discover Scuba, Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, and Enriched Air (Nitrox) are now forming. Additional three-day dive trips to Florida are in the planning stages. Call the C&RC registration desk at 412-221-1099 or ask scuba instructor Scott for more information on how easy it is for you to join the fun and adventure of diving at the C&RC! n
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SAQ—Speed, Agility, and Quickness The Community & Recreation
Center at Boyce Mayview Park is now offering a comprehensive year-round Speed, Agility, and Quickness program (SAQ)*. The program will cater to young athletes between the ages of ten and 15 years old, guiding them in the development of efficiency of movement as well as imparting the knowledge and benefits of preventative maintenance. Mission • To increase athleticism and efficiency in motion for all young athletes Objectives • Condition the athlete for balance and speed in motion • Progressively teach and develop skills in the above attributes • Attain optimal movement skills and conditioning for enhanced athletic performance When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4-5 p.m. Where: C&RC Gymnasium
Attributes to Attaining Optimal Balance • Body Awareness • Flexibility • Core Body Strength • Agility/Coordination/Proprioception • Conditioning • Strength and Endurance Keys to Athleticism • Balance Left to right are Evan Heilman, Roman • Balance in motion Murgi, and Jacob Lantzman • Balance in motion with strength • Balance in motion with strength through multiple planes *Content provided by Coach Ralph Schmidt. This year-round SAQ program is the first step in the C&RC’s plan to create a complete strength and conditioning program geared to towards middle school, high school, and college athletes. n Lacrosse players benefit from SAQ training. Cost: Member-$8, resident non-member-$10, and surrounding community member-$12 per session To learn more, call 412-221-1099 or visit www.livesmarterplayharder.org.
Lifeguard Showdown Puts Training to the Test
O n S u n d a y, J u l y 1 8 , local items. Team AM from Alameda Pool in had to perform each skill correctly.” Chris would like to see the C&RC lifeguards got the chance to put their Butler took second place with 270.5 points, lifesaving skills to the test at the first and USC 1 from Upper St. Clair’s C&RC Lifeguard Showdown grow to the point where a local champion would move on to annual Lifeguard Showdown at the Com- came in third with 266 points. “The lifeguard competition is a great statewide competition. He said some states, munity & Recreation Center (C&RC) at Boyce Mayview Park. Lifeguard teams of way for lifeguards to stay in tip-top shape including California and Ohio, already have statewide competitions to three from communities showcase the participants’ across Pittsburgh raced skills as lifeguards. “If you against the clock for the make it fun,” said Chris, best time. “competition brings out The lifeguard compethe best.” tition, which adhered to Eddie Bitner, who American Red Cross Lifewas on the third place guard Training standards, team USC 1 along with consisted of seven events: Tyler Podobnik and Steph a 300-yard swim relay, a Reinwald, said the event CPR scenario, a first aid Lifeguard Showdown third place finishers, Lifeguard Showdown participants offered a chance to learn scenario, a written exam, USC 1 team of Tyler Podobnik, Eddie Bitner, and Steph Reinwald and to have a good time. a spinal/backboard scewith all of the skills that they have learned “It was fun!” said Eddie. nario, a brick relay, and a “fun” relay. Paul Besterman, the Township’s DirecFinishing first in the competition was from the American Red Cross,” said Team USA from Butler, including Erik Christopher Biswick, the C&RC aquatics tor of Recreation and Leisure Services, said Bergh, Beth Newell, and Mark Newell, supervisor. “Lifeguards practice regularly the competition raises awareness about with 294 points. The winning team will to be comfortable with their skills, but what lifeguards do, as well as emphasizhave its name engraved on the Lifeguard competition helps simulate performing ing water safety and aquatics programs Showdown trophy and each member of the under stress, since the participants are be- in general. It also promotes camaraderie team received a first place ribbon, a “gold ing timed. So in addition to performing the within the community and the surroundwhistle,” and a backpack filled with other skills at each station quickly, the lifeguards ing communities. n Winter 2010
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The Outdoor Classroom—Where Nature Teaches The Metamorphosis of REEC Jessica Stombaugh, TOC Program Manager Just as the crawling caterpillar
becomes the graceful fluttering butterfly, the Regional Environmental Education Center (REEC) is coming out of its chrysalis and is spreading its newly formed wings as The Outdoor Classroom. Those who have visited the center in the Boyce Mayview Park in Upper St. Clair know the beauty and functionality of the outdoor classroom structure where students gather to learn and share meaningful experiences that will stay with them for a lifetime. The classroom invites those visiting to stop and experience the natural wonders around them. Through hands-on activities and guidance of the experienced teaching staff, students are encouraged to explore, touch, smell, and listen to nature. The Regional Environmental Education Center was created to connect people with the natural world of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Operating in the Township of Upper St. Clair’s Boyce Mayview Park, the organization focuses on student learning experiences for participants of all ages and has grown exponentially from 300 to 12,000 over the past five years. As the organization grew, it experienced the limitations of the REEC name and began a search for a new, more descriptive identity. The name “The Regional Environmental Education Center,” was originally selected because it was generic and widely applicable to its mission. As it has grown, REEC or “reek” as it has been nicknamed has become too nebulous a title, leaving people unsure of the services it provides.
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To better convey its identity and mission, REEC is changing its name to The Outdoor Classroom. The REEC chrysalis has become a beautiful butterfly. Now you can immediately envision a wooden structure tucked into the woods, nature surrounding you and knowledge being passed, naturally. It’s a place of learning where participants can Matthew and Ms. Sarah gently hold a salamander.
extensive network of interconnections that will help foster an increased number of peoples’ appreciation for the natural world. In addition to the new name, The Red damsel fly Outdoor Classroom will be launching a gain knowledge that builds and nurtures new website along with other social mesustainable lifestyles and communities, dia outlets to better help the community where people of all ages, backgrounds, and stay involved and enjoy the environment lifestyles can find their own meaningful through the many events and activities connection, allowing nature to speak to going on at The Outdoor Classroom. them in its own way. Environmental educators thrive on introThe Outdoor Classroom is also expand- ducing students to nature, watching as ing its connections in the Southwestern The Outdoor Classroom guides students Pennsylvania environmental and educa- through their natural journey. The Outdoor tion fields to encompass new partnerships Classroom offers outdoor hikes and educawith local non-profits, institutions of tion programs for families and adults, and high education and area municipalities makes sure that Pennsylvania public eduand businesses. Working together, The cation objectives and standards are met and Outdoor Classroom can provide a more that lessons are presented in a certified and meaningful way. But the things that stick with students and visitors the most are the ever present “teachable moments.” The magical times when a butterfly lands on someone’s arm or a hawk circles the field where the class is studying—those are the things that make the connection deep down. And it’s the basis for the REEC’s Students explore creek life at the 2010 EcoKids summer camp. transformed identity: The Outdoor Classroom–Where Nature Teaches. n Winter 2010
Highley Dedicated Knowledgeable Accessible Dependable $95 Million Sales in 19 Years
Susan Highley ABR, CRS, SRES
412 833-3600 Cell-412 889-1214 URL:shighley.howardhanna.com
Winter—It’s for the Birds Sara Homol, TOC Program Administrator Winter is still a great time for bird watching in Pennsylvania. Approximately 30 species of birds can be seen fluttering around bird houses and feeders during these frosty months. At a time when many animals have hunkered down for the winter or flown south for better food resources, many birds have chosen to stay and deal with the snow, short days, and pot holes just like the rest of us. One of the most common birds that remains here for the winter is the blackcapped chickadee. A small bird with a large head, tiny round body, and inquisitive nature, one cannot describe the blackcapped chickadee without using the word “adorable!” The black-capped chickadee is most easily recognized by the large black marking, or cap, on the top of its head and black bib below its beak. Although the chickadee seldom remains seated at the feeder long enough for you to snap the perfect picture, it will return to visit regularly. Chickadees eat almost constantly during the daylight hours of winter to help keep their bodies warm. Interestingly enough, this chickadee hides
its food for later use and can remember thousands of hiding places. During the warm months, chickadees feed primarily on spiders, insects, and other animal food, but during the winter when this food is scarce, they eat berries, seeds, and occasional frozen bits of fat and meat from animal carcasses. For more information about the blackcapped chickadee as well as many exquisite winter species, visit www.allaboutbirds. org and stop by The Outdoor Classroom for one of the seasonal birding talk-n-walk programs. n
Photos, which were taken at the TOC during a February storm, are courtesy of Jessica Stombaugh, TOC program manager Winter 2010
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USC Library
Star-studded Events at Your Library
Save the Date! Sunday, March 27, 2011, 1 p.m. 2nd Annual Library Luncheon Presents Robert Aiello Mentalist and Author In “Incredible Feats of the Mind”
Generations Together—Library Programs for Harmony: Mind, Body, Spirit All Ages
Many library patrons enjoyed two fun intergenerational library events this past summer. On July 1, Walt and Susie Olsen of Mr. Banjo’s Old Time SingAlong entertained a full house with “America Sings,” a program of songs celebrating America and Stephen Foster’s birthday. Old-time favorites of Foster’s, including Camptown Races and Oh Susanna, were sung with gusto, and a song booklet helped with less familiar tunes. The children enjoyed making patriotic crafts before the show and proudly wore their Fourth of July fireworks hats. Recruits volunteered to wave the flag during a medley of U.S. Armed Services official songs, while audience members who were veterans of each Armed Service branch stood at attention. The finale, You Are My Sunshine, brought tears to many eyes. The End of Summer Reading Gala Ice Cream Social drew a record number of patrons looking for a good time and vying for great prizes donated by the Friends of the Library and local restaurants. Games were played and everyone enjoyed ice cream sundaes and floats, as participants of the children’s summer reading program pulled the winning entries and distributed the prizes to the winning readers. Each participant that evening was able to select a book to take home from a wonderful collection of both adult and children’s materials donated by the Friends of the Library.
Librarians at Upper St. Clair Township Library and South Park Township Library have created complementary collections of print and non-print materials around the theme of Harmony: Mind, Body, Spirit. The foundation of this joint project, funded by a state grant, is to reach out to the community with integrated holistic information related to lifestyle choices. Included in the collections are books, audios, videos, and special kits of related materials around specific themes. A parallel joint series of programs related to this theme will also be presented monthly at each library during the grant year running through June 2011. Stop by either library to see a display of materials and an upcoming program list. Multi-Sensory Harmony Kits Each Harmony kit focuses on one topic and delivers a multimedia approach for you to experience harmony. A small sampling of contents includes meditation balls with a DVD and book; a tea pot and cups with the book, The Way of Tea, and Japanese meditation music; a variety of brain games; a yoga mat with DVD; and a mini Zen garden kit with the book, A Healing Garden, and garden sanctuary cards. Reflexology—Learn to Kits are available for a three-week loan. relieve pain naturally This project has been partially funded with federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds administered by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries.
eUSC—the Downloadable Library That’s Always Open Raahema Durrani picks the first lucky winner! Saluting our service men
Library Hosts Brian O’Neill A delighted audience enjoyed an evening with Post Gazette columnist Brian O’Neill this past spring as he discussed his new book The Paris of Appalachia: Pittsburgh in the 21st Century and talked about what’s going on in Pittsburgh. O’Neill graciously signed copies of his book and donated a portion of the proceeds from the books sold that night to the library. Brian O’Neill meets with the crowd.
Check out the library website at www.twpusc.org/library for more great upcoming programs! 24
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Winter 2010
Your Upper St. Clair Township library card now provides access to OverDrive, a digital media service for downloadable eBooks, eAudio, and eVideo on your PC or on the go! Read, listen, or watch on your computer or your compatible portable player. Items from OverDrive are available 24/7 and you will never accrue late fees because titles are automatically deleted from your device and “returned” to the library when their loan period is up. The best part is, you set your preferred loan period for each type of material! To get started, simply download and install the free software “OverDrive Media Console” available at http://acla.lib.overdrive.com. Next, set up a free account using your library card. You are now ready to browse! When making a selection, scroll down the page to view which devices are compatible with your chosen title. Try out eUSC today. Visit the library that’s always open!
Thank You to Donors The library would like to extend a special thank you to the Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair and the following restaurants for their donations to the successful 2010 Adult Summer Reading Program: The Spaghetti Warehouse, Mitchell’s Fish Market, Houlihan’s, Bravo Cucina Italiana, and Stone Pepper’s Grill. n
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Library, Children’s Department
Summer Reading 2010
Ask the Librarian
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During the summer months , the Children’s Library is a busy place. Nearly 1200 kids participated in the 2010 reading programs for kids of all ages. Summer Reading helps children maintain and improve their reading skills during the summer. Thank you to the organizations and individuals who contributed to these programs, with a special thanks to the Friends of the Library for their longtime support. A hearty thanks to the following businesses for their generosity: AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes, Applebee’s, Ardolino’s Pizza, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Chick-fil-A, Donut Connection, Learning Express, Little Lake Theatre Company, Loafers Bread Company, Rice Enterprises, LLC (McDonald’s), Pati Petite Cookies, Inc., Pittsburgh Pirates, Stone Pepper’s Grill, and T.G.I. Friday’s. Please think about being a donor for next year’s programs. Your donation can play an important role in encouraging kids to read. Here’s how you can help: • Small monetary donations • Coupons from local businesses for free items, like ice cream or kid’s meals • Duplicate or unwanted never-been-used gifts that your child receives for birthdays, holidays, or other occasions As we get ready for winter, think summer… and think Summer Reading. You can help make it happen!
an, Your Librari n on Debra C
Express Lane Checkout Another state grant has funded the installation of self-checkout stations in 14 libraries, including USC, this fall. This new and easy way to check out your library materials is fast, fun, and free! Since the stations will be only for checkouts, you won’t find yourself behind someone registering for a new card or discussing a lost item with library staff. Touch screen monitors lead you through three simple steps—scan your barcode, scan your books, print the receipt—and you’re ready to go. You can find Express Checkout stations on both the adult and children’s floors. Try one out today!
USC Township Library Hours Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Outside book and video return available 24/7. Items collected daily at 9 a.m.
Winter Holiday Closures The library is closed on the following days: Thursday, November 25; Friday, November 26; Friday, December 24; Saturday, December 25; Sunday, December 26; and Saturday, January 1. The library will close early at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 24 and 1 p.m. on Friday, December 31.
www.twpusc.org/library
412-835-5540
Summer Reading participants took to the Wetlands at Boyce Mayview Park for an excursion. A puppet show complemented the Summer Reading program.
Book and Bowl at AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes August 12 was Upper St. Clair Library Day at AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes. School-age children who participated in the Summer Reading Program were invited for two hours of free bowling. In addition, 270 kids who reached a reading goal of ten books (six books for kids in middle school) were given an additional coupon for two free games and free shoe rental on a day of their choosing. The bowling incentives were effective. Summer Readers read a total of 7798 books! Thanks to AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes, “Book and Bowl” will again be a part of Summer Reading in 2011. n Book and Bowl, an active reading outcome Winter 2010
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Dog Owners Purchase a County license for dogs three months or older by January 1 every year. Applications are available at the Township reception desk. Visit http://www.twpusc.org/police/ animals/index.html to download and print the online annual dog license application (available in pdf format).
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Fines can be up to $300 a day for each unlicensed dog.
You are invited to participate in the
Township of Upper St. Clair’s Township of Upper St. Clair’s Christmas Tree Recycling Project! Christmas Tree Recycling Project! Bring your tree, without decorations, to the YMCA upper parking lot January 3-24, 2011. The trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use.
Please remove all plastic tree bags! For more information, call 412-831-9000, extension 271 or visit www.twpusc.org. 26
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The Township has partnered with Whitetail Management Associates and contracted with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an alltime high number of reported deer vehicle collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts and last year saw the reported accidents drop to 89. The deer population in some areas of the Township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in other portions of the Township there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level. The Township has been fortunate to have residents assist the Township efforts by offering private property for the culling programs. Residents who would like consideration for inclusion in private property culling for the Deer Management program should contact Debi Bakowski, Township personnel, at 412-831-9000. n
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Deer Management Update
Code requirements concerning animal control can be found on the Township website at www.twpusc.org.
2010-11 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Thanksgiving Day Wednesday, November 24 (no change) Friday, November 26 (Delayed one day) Week of Christmas Regular schedule Week of New Year’s Regular schedule
2010 Fall Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays
Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place the following two Saturdays: November 20 and December 4.
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Information Technology Department The Elusive IT Department
Amy Sommer, Director of Information Technology At the entrance to the second floor of the USC Township Library near the Morton oak tree display, there are two brown doors that many ask where they lead. “Is it the School District?” “Is it the Recreation Department?” For those of you who have ever wondered what lies behind those doors, this article will fill you in on the secret. The door sign reads “Township Systems Administrator,” but what does that mean? Behind these doors lies the world of the Information Technology Department. As the director of the Township’s Information Technology Department, I would like to introduce you to my co-workers and our department. Currently, the department comprises four talented and knowledgeable individuals. Network administrator Ed Poljak has been a dedicated Township employee for seven years. Joining the department a little over a year ago is support technician Travis Gregg. Our creative and detail-oriented website designer Joan Raymond has been helping to keep the Township and related websites up to date
for ten years. As for me, I joined the Township four years ago and was promoted to the director’s position this past March. The four of us work behind the scenes to provide Township employees with the computer and technical support they require to perform their jobs. We maintain the networks, computers, software, and phone equipment for the following locations: Township Administration Offices, the Finance Department, Community Development, the Township Library, the Police Department, Public Works, the C&RC, and Tri-Community South EMS. We also maintain the websites for the Township, the C&RC, Tri-Community South EMS, and the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. Not many people are aware of the IT Department because we are in the background and do not serve the public directly. Even though we aren’t always visible, we are always present. We are the elusive individuals that make up the Township’s Information Technology Department and we are happy to serve you! n
NAVIGATE THE ROAD TO SUCCESS
Meet Amy Sommer
Leading Upper St. Clair Township’s Information Technology Department is Amy Sommer. Hired in January 2006 as a support technician, Amy was the database administrator prior to being named director of the department this past March. A 2003 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Amy earned a BS in information science and worked in IT in the private sector prior to taking a job in municipal government. “I’ve done IT work for a long time,” she said. While her resume “officially” lists seven years of experience, Amy said she’s been doing IT work closer to 15 years, volunteering her expertise while in high school and college. Amy considers her volunteer work valuable, since that was where she learned to troubleshoot when people had a problem with their computer. “It was good experience,” she stated, adding that it really helped her to develop the skills to explain technical things to people who weren’t tech savvy. Amy and her team provide computer
and technical support to Township employees. When asked what part of her job is most challenging, she responded that managing all the projects and making sure everything gets done is the most demanding. “We want to make sure the Township’s needs are met and that the Township employees are happy with our service. As a support department,” said Amy, “we want to make sure that all the employees feel comfortable calling us with questions and problems.” Amy and her husband, Jeff, live in Whitehall, with their two-and-a-half year old twins, Jeffrey and Gracie. While work and family life keep her busy, when she gets some free time Amy likes to be outside, especially if it involves planting flowers. “I’m a flower person,” she laughed, “I love to plant flowers!” “Information technology is an exciting field to be in, especially since the field continues to change so quickly,” said Amy, “and Upper St. Clair is a great place to work!” n Winter 2010
MC MA H O N FI NAN C I A L 6 5 0 WA S H I N G T O N R O A D / S U I T E 1 0 0 0 P I T T S B U R G H PA 1 5 2 2 8 / 4 1 2 3 4 3 8 7 0 0 W W W. M C M A H O N - F I N A N C I A L . C O M
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T Winter Storm Emergencies Winter storm emergencies are just that—emergencies. The Township of Upper St. Clair’s administrative staff, Police Department, and Public Works Department are on call 24 hours a day to help residents and businesses by making the streets safe. During the winter season, Township residents are asked to be patient and understanding. To help the Police and Public Works Department during storms, the Township asks the cooperation of residents in the following areas:
1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to a minimum. Public Works and Police phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls only during storm situations. The Township is as eager as you to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads such as Route 19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort Couch Road, and Mayview Road are plowed first as a matter of public safety and for emergency vehicles.
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.
4. The Public Works Department is not permitted to assist residents by clearing driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mailboxes. Public Works employees work as many hours as necessary to make streets, inlets, cul-de-sacs, sidewalks, and parking lots safe for all vehicles and pedestrians. 5. Under emergency situations, there may be delays or cancellations of garbage collection and recycling pickup. Please do not call the Township during a snow emergency to ask about garbage collection. Until the snow situation is under control, it is impossible to say when garbage collection will be back on schedule. Check Cable 7 or the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org for information on garbage collection. 6. The Township cannot recommend contractors or companies that provide private snow removal. Please refer to the Verizon Yellow Pages. 28
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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. Air Science Consultants are available to the Public Works Department on a 24-hour contracted basis and provide periodic advance weather forecasting. 3. Peak traffic occurs between the hours of 4-8 a.m. and 2-9 p.m. Decisions to delay school must be made by school administration by 5:30 a.m. to permit contacting School District personnel.
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.
www.twpusc.org
Public Works Snow Removal— How It Works
The Public Works Department is on call 24 hours a day to help residents with snow removal emergencies and related situations. During severe snow situations where plowing is needed, the main state and Township roads have priority, which in some cases require residential roadways to be designated secondary priority. 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 Township, including State Route 19, Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, and McMillan Road. It does not have maintenance responsibilities to Allegheny County-owned roadways, including Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, and Drake Road. Winter 2010
4. The Public Works Department minimizes the use of chemicals and anti-skid materials by plowing whenever possible. Generally, accumulations over two inches with additional snow predicted may require plowing as dictated by temperatures and information obtained from Air Science Consultants. 5. Constant monitoring of road conditions helps the Public Works administration coordinate snow removal actions to ensure total roadway coverage. All snow removal vehicle drivers assist and back each other up to ensure effective roadway salting and plowing. 6. Walks will be cleared at the Township building and tennis bubbles as soon as possible. The Recreation Center schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities. 7. Excessive snow may require opening of inlets or location of fire plugs.
T
Sanitary sewer line cleaning and televising under the requirements of the Administrative Consent Order
Perimeter Trail Phase II, as the trail travels towards the Community & Recreation Center
Public Works Projects 2010 While the Township’s Public Works Department is busy year-round, here’s a look at some of its major projects undertaken this year.
Color coating of Johnston Park sports courts Boyce Mayview Park fields pavilion
Valley Brook Family Dental Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD
Advanced Dental Care for the Entire Family Cosmetic Dentistry Lumineer Veneers Advanced Whitening Dental Implants Laser Surgery Root Canals & Extractions IV Sedation Available PLUS: Modern Office Convenient Hours Child Friendly Environment Most Insurances Accepted No Interest Financing Peters Town Center 180 Gallery Drive McMurray
(724) 942-8982 www.valleybrookdental.com Winter 2010
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T
Which Hospital? One of the most frequently
asked questions of Tri-Community South EMS is: Which hospital will you take me to if I have to be transported? Very simply, TCS’s policy is to take the patient to the hospital of his or her choice. TCS would prefer to transport the patient to the facility in which his or her PCP or specialist has staff privileges. In such cases, it is much simpler and less timeconsuming for hospital personnel to check for information such as a patient’s past medical history, medications, and allergies to medications. But if a patient wants to go to another facility instead, TCS staff will comply with his or her wishes. However, there are exceptions to this policy. If a patient needs specialty care, TCS must transport to a hospital that provides such care. In cases involving major trauma, burns, and pediatric care, TCS must transport to the nearest facility that can provide such care. In the event of cardiac problems or strokes, TCS strongly suggests transport to the most appropriate facility that
can provide the best care for that medical emergency. Also, in these situations, TCS staff will ask its medical command physician for his or her input before a decision is made. If the patient is not sure which facility would be appropriate, TCS will offer advice to help the patient make an informed decision. Of course, in cases involving patients in critical condition, TCS always transports to the nearest facility. This decision also will factor in such variables as time of day, traffic conditions, road conditions, and weather. For instance, during the bad snowstorms this past winter, TCS had to transport to the nearest facility. Also, in certain officially designated disaster situations TCS is compelled to transport to the nearest facility. The above guidelines should help to eliminate confusion that our residents may have about ambulance transports. However, if you have further questions, contact Tr i - C o m m u n i t y S o u t h E M S a t 412-831-3710. n
Ambulance Service—Who Pays? People are often confused
about health insurance benefits, especially when it involves emergency transportation to a hospital. Many assume that their individual health insurance will pay ambulance fees, but the fact is that most health insurance plans do not cover 100% of the cost of an ambulance trip. Any amount not covered by insurance then becomes the responsibility of the individual. This amount can sometimes exceed $600 for a single trip. In addition, most insurance plans contribute nothing for an ambulance visit that results in treatment without transport to an emergency room. The fee for this service, which can cost from $200 to $250, again becomes the responsibility of the individual. These charges, however, can easily be avoided by becoming a subscriber to TriCommunity South EMS (TCS) through its annual subscription program. For an annual fee of $60, each family can protect its members from incurring unnecessary bills for emergency ambulance service. A subscription will cover any co-payments or deductibles not included in your insurance policy. Also, any emergency treatment in which transport is not required will also be covered. Those who are covered by a 30
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subscription include all family members living at that address and non-resident guests and visitors at your home. Additionally, your subscription helps TCS to maintain its position as one of the foremost EMS systems in Pennsylvania, because the subscription program provides a source of revenue to continue operating the system without resorting to the use of municipal taxes. The subscription program is so beneficial to both parties that it seems that people would need little convincing to join. The opposite, however, seems to be the case. TCS’s 2010 subscription drive resulted in the enrollment of just 25.5% of households in Upper St. Clair. The brochure mailing for the 2011 campaign was mailed at the end of October. Would you please look for your subscription material and seriously consider becoming a subscriber? TCS benefits and you do, too, with piece of mind of knowing you and your loved ones are covered in the case of an emergency transportation. If any group or organization would like to have a speaker discuss the subscription program or any other topic related to emergency health care, contact Tri-Community South EMS at 412-831-3710. n
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USCVFD Dedicates Training Library to Doug Watkins Mike Gannon, Captain, USC Volunteer Fire Department
October 15, 2010, marked the five-year anniversary
of the dedication ceremony for USC’s main fire station located at 2001 Washington Road. Anniversaries can be curious events because they can be times of celebration, remembrance, or reflection on events of the past. It may even be a time for some of us to end up in hot water because we forgot the flowers, card, or that “special” gift we meant to pick up. October 15, 2005, was one of those interesting days that became even more memorable for many in the fire department at that time, due to a large multiple alarm mutual aid commercial structure fire response in Carnegie. After the members returned to the fire station from that mutual aid call, they worked diligently to get equipment repaired, replaced, and cleaned up so that the fire department could return to service. Just as pressing a concern at the time was the scheduled dedication ceremony that very morning for the new fire station. The members performed a tremendous amount of “behind the scenes” work that day to get ready for the dedication ceremony. That type of extra effort is common in the fire service industry across the nation and in our neighboring departments as well. If we could go back in time to June 1938 and sit in on the meetings between the department’s first 12 charter members, I’m sure we would recognize that same level of effort and dedication. Those same characteristics are also present in the many individuals who have assisted and supported USC’s fire department over the years, many times in “behind the scenes” fashion not widely known to the residents of the Township. As the fire department continued to evolve and grow from the efforts of those first 12 members, property was purchased along Washington Road and the first fire station was completed in 1949. In 1975 a parcel of land was secured at the intersection of Morton and Hastings Mill Roads. That station, known as “Station Two” to department members, was designed to better serve the residents at the southern end of the Township. When it became evident that the department was outgrowing the main station on Washington Road, plans began to develop for a new facility to replace the existing structure. After years of planning, work began on the new station. Throughout the planning and construction phases, then Township Manager Douglas A. Watkins played a critical, though often “unseen,” role in the process. Doug was a true friend of the fire department, and his death left a void for many of its members. Doug’s role in the community was recognized in a number of ways. Many residents, friends, and associates chose to contribute to a fund that was donated to the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department in Doug Watkins’ name. That fund has been used to update and improve the training materials available to the department’s membership to continue to best meet the needs of the residents through training efforts. The members of the fire department chose to celebrate the memory of Doug Watkins and named and dedicated its in-house training library the “Douglas A. Watkins Memorial Library.” Stop by the main station any Wednesday evening to take a look at the cutting edge equipment in the apparatus bays, the radio room, and the Douglas A. Watkins Memorial Library. We are happy to serve USC, and its residents and we are grateful for the equipment and facilities in which to do so. n Winter 2010
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Directory of Important Numbers
Jeanne knew it was time for a change.
Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency
412-833-7500 • 724-941-7500 Township Offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday - Friday Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 216 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 501 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 226 Recreation – 412-221-1099 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 271 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500 Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710 Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) 412-835-0660 Library – 412-835-5540 Frequently Called Numbers
Cable 7 (Public Access Television) 412-831-1030 Robert C. Wyda (District Justice) 412-835-1661 League Of Women Voters 412-261-4284 Post Office – 1-800-275-8777 School District – 412-833-1600 Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556 The Outdoor Classroom 412-838-0064 Three-Hole Golf Course 412-831-7556 USC Chamber of Commerce 412-833-9111
Country Meadows resident since 2008
Jeanne loves the memories of her family and the home they shared. However, when she found herself alone, fixing problems and taking care of maintenance became overwhelming. When Jeanne moved to Country Meadows, she brought her memories with her and left homeowner worries behind. Now, she feels spoiled by people serving her dinner, taking care of landscaping, even cleaning her apartment. It gives her time to do the things she loves most. At Country Meadows, we have independent living, assisted living, memory support services and restorative care options to fit the individual needs of most seniors. We also offer in-home personal care services to seniors in the comfort of their own homes. Like Jeanne, every one of our residents is unique. So for many of them, having more choices about how they live makes a world of difference.
Utilities & Services
Comcast Cable Communications Sales, Service, and Billing 1-800-266-2278 Allegheny Power – 1-800-255-3443 Columbia Gas Company 724-416-6300 Dominion People’s Gas Company 1-800-764-0111 Equitable Gas Company 412-395-3050 PA American Water Company 1-800-565-7292 Verizon – 1-800-660-2215
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www.countrymeadows.com 3570 Washington Pike | Bridgeville, PA 15017 | 412.257.4581 A Continuing Care Retirement Community Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Support Restorative Care | Skilled Nursing | At Home Services Country Meadows does not discriminate in resident admission on the basis of race, ancestry, religious creed, age, sex, handicap, disability or national origin, provided the resident, in the sole opinion of Country Meadows, can be cared for legally and responsibly. CM Jeanne_USCT.indd 1
Winter 2010
7/23/10 9:15 AM
P I NEBR I DG E
ONE S T ONIEPNCE
CONVE
1580 McLaughlin Run Rd Pittsburgh PA 15241
412-257-1150 4000 Waterdam Plaza McMurray PA 15317
724-942-4840
COMPLETE PROFESSIONAL PATIENT CARE
133 West Allegheny Road Imperial PA 15126
724-695-0133
Our primary goal is to give your child positive memories that instill lifelong hygiene habits.
Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road 1580 McLaughlin Run Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241
PINEBRIDGE COMMONS PROFESSIONALS HAVE SO MUCH TO OFFER! • Pediatricians, Pediatric Dental Specialists, Orthodontists, Family/Cosmetic Dentistry And More! • Easy and Convenient location in the heart of USC • Elevator Accessibility • Free Parking
Office hours are Monday through Friday. Evening appointments are available.
The orthodontic office of Dr. Eric Reitz and Dr. Beth Troy provides care for the communities of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Dr. Reitz and Dr. Troy take the time to place and adjust braces on every patient, giving individualized attention in a caring environment.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today! • Orthodontic services for children and adults Pinebridge Commons location: 1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-0392 Bethel Park location: 2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-831-2188
• Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment
St. Clair Division
“Exceptional Care for Your Children, Confidence and Convenience for You.” • • • • • • • • •
New Patients Welcome Electronic Medical Records Saturday Morning Hours; Evening Hours; Walk-in Hours 24/7 On-Call Board Certified Pediatric Nutritionist on staff Pediatric and Adolescent specialists In Office Lab In-office medication dispensing Coming Soon
Amy L. McGarrity, MD Kimberly M. Pezzone, MD Edwin B. King, MD Debra M. Faber, MD Mark M. Blatter, MD Whitney L. Boyle, PA-C Kristin L. Koontz, PA-C
• Convenient appointment hours, including Saturday mornings
412-221-2121
• 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted
www.PediatricAlliance.com Winter 2010
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P I NEBR I DG E Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road ••••••••••••••••• The Chief Partners Piccolina’s Restaurant Davin Interiors Pinebridge Commons Associates Design Image Salon, Joe Ruffalo Primary Physicians Research Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc. Questa Petroleum Co. Peter Gialames & Associates Eric J. Reitz DMD & Interior Designs by Beth Troy, DMD Mary Kay Chaffee Richardson Family Jimcor Associates, Inc. South Hills Financial Group Timothy Kerr, DMD & State Farm Insurance Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Suburban Dry Cleaners Larry E. Manalo, DMD Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent. Pediatric Alliance Wininsky Law Offices Pediatric Dentistry South Xcoal Energy Resources
•••••••••••••••••
Pinebridge Commons Associates Leasing (412) 220-9288
FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Let us make you smile!
T imothy J. K err , D.M.D. R omana P autler K err , D.M.D.
KK 412-257-4250 Pinebridge Commons Suite 207
kerrdmd.com 34
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Chairside Whitening System
Winter 2010
Northern Italian Restaurant “ Come visit with the little one”
Private Party and Banquet Room Al Fresco Dining Expanded Dining Room Reservations suggested Gift Certificates available
Phone (412) 257-1880 Fax (412) 257-2895 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd., Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Visit our website: www.piccolinas.com
P I NEBR I DG E
9.10 Today Magazine Color Ad
9/10/10
4:17 PM
Page 1
LARRY E. MANALO, D.M.D. General Dentist & Prostodontic Specialist
Quality Gentle Dentistry for the entire family!
Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season and Heartfelt Thanks for your Patronage.
Brighten your smile with
Tues. Wed. Thurs. 9:00 to 8:00 Fri. & Sat. 9:00 to 5:00
ZOOM!
chairside whitening system "New research indicates that healthy teeth and gums may improve overall health. By receiving REGULAR DENTAL CLEANINGS, diabetes, low birth weight babies, & heart disease may be prevented!"
Services For Women and Men ..Salon Shampoo, Cut and Style Condition and Hi-lights .. Color, Perms: Partial and Root Prom, Up Do (Special Styles) . Wedding, Blow Dry & Style .. Waxing: Eyebrow, Lip
PINEBRIDGE DENTAL
Manicures, Pedicures and Acrylics
412-257-4001
88 DENTAL
1580 MCLAUGHLIN RUN ROAD UPPER ST. CLAIR, PA 15241
4100 LIBRARY ROAD CASTLE SHANNON, PA 15234
412-221-2221
412-343-4100
Graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Proud resident of Upper St. Clair. Provider of most major insurance plans.
PINE RIDGE COMMONS, SUITE 110 1580 MCLAUGHLIN RUN ROAD, UPPER SAINT CLAIR, PA 15241
Slide Into Winter Safety
While winter offers many opportunities for outdoor enjoyment, safety hazards do exist. In order to fully enjoy cold-weather activities, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the following safety guidelines: • During winter playtime, keep your child safe by ensuring his or her warmth. Dress your child appropriately in several layers to provide protection from the elements. Have your children periodically come indoors to warm to prevent hypothermia. If your child’s clothing becomes wet while playing outside, change him into dry clothes. This will also help avoid hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the cold weather causes one’s body temperature to fall below normal levels. Signs of hypothermia may include shivering, followed by clumsiness and slurred speech. If you suspect your child is hypothermic, call 911 immediately, then move him or her indoors, remove any wet clothing, and wrap your child in warm clothing or blankets until help arrives. • Frostbite occurs when exposed skin becomes cold and frozen. Common sites for frostbite include fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Children with frostbite may complain of burning or numbness of the skin and the area may appear pale, gray, or blistered. If your child shows signs of frostbite, immediately bring him or her inside. Place the affected part(s) in warm water or apply warm washcloths to the area. Do not rub the frozen skin. If your child continues to complain of numbness after a few minutes of warmth, call your pediatrician immediately.
• Helmets should be worn not only during warm weather biking, but also for cold weather sports. To help prevent head injuries, your child should wear a helmet when ice skating, sledding, skiing, or snowboarding. The helmet should fit properly and be secured with a safety clasp. • When ice skating, encourage your child to skate with the flow of traffic. Skate only on a a rink that is approved by local police or recreation departments. Children should never skate while chewing gum or candy. • Always supervise children who are sledding. Children should sit upright, feet-first while riding in a sled. Avoid crowded areas or those with hazards, including trees or fences. Never sled near motor vehicles and avoid steep hills (over 30 degrees). • Be sure to supervise your child when he or she is skiing or snowboarding. The AAP recommends that children younger than seven years old not snowboard. Be sure that all equipment fits your child properly. Avoid crowded slopes and be sure your child skis on a slope appropriate for his or her skill level. • Finally, don’t forget sunscreen! Snow reflects the rays of the sun and can contribute to sunburn of exposed skin. By following the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, you and your child can enjoy a safe, healthy winter! n See ad for Pediatric Alliance on page 33.
Winter 2010
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LIFE PLANNING Paulette Paulin, D.M.D. Dental Specialist In Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry
Prosthodontists are specialists in the restoration and replacement of teeth who have had an additional three years of postgraduate specialty training after obtaining a dental degree.
Comprehensive dental services:
• cleanings and x-rays • fillings, crowns and bridge work • dentures and partials • TMJ (muscle-joint dysfunction)
• occlusal disharmony (bite problems) • cosmetic and IMPLANT dentistry
Paulette Paulin, D.M.D. • Warren M. Stoffer, D.M.D., F.A.C.P. Summerfield Commons Office Park 2585 Washington Road, Suite 121 • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
412-854-9055 dentalartsofpittsburgh.com Evening and Saturday Appointments Available
President, American College of Prosthodontists, PA Instructor, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Department of Prosthodontics
Exceptional results... Individualized care
Understanding the Benefits of Regular Dental Visits Paulette Paulin, DMD
One of the main reasons for a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months is prevention and early detection. The earlier a problem can be diagnosed and treated the easier and less invasive it is to fix. Early detection can save time, money, and your teeth! The Surgeon General’s report on oral health confirmed most teeth are lost because of dental caries or periodontal (gum) disease. Both are caused by a build up of plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) on the teeth. While good brushing and flossing habits will help remove a lot of plaque it’s impossible to remove all of it, especially in hard-to-reach areas near the gumline and between teeth. With time, plaque hardens into tartar and can only be removed with a professional cleaning at the dental office. An important part of a dental exam is to check for tooth decay. Cavities can form around old fillings and crowns as well as around exposed tooth roots. Teeth can fracture or break, and sometimes an individual is unaware that they have a broken tooth. Most of the time, problems go unnoticed by the patient since they usually do not experience pain or discomfort until a significant amount of tooth destruction has occurred. Evaluating the gum tissue for periodontal disease is another important part of an oral exam. Periodontal disease affects three out of four adults at some point in their lives. Recent research
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suggests there may be a link between periodontal disease and other health problems. Periodontal disease doesn’t necessarily hurt and you may not even be aware you have it until it is at an advanced stage. Regular dental visits are essential for detecting periodontal disease at an early stage, when it can often be reversed, before the gums and the supporting bone are irreversibly damaged. Your dentist should screen for precancerous changes in the oral tissues to help detect cancer at an early stage when it can be more successfully treated. Your dentist should also check your neck and oral tissues for lesions that may not be visible to the patient. The National Cancer Institute states that more than 30,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. For a patient who wears dentures, it is important for him or her to schedule an annual evaluation. During the visit, an oral cancer screening should be completed. A denture check for proper fit and a professional cleaning to remove stains should also occur. Although dentures are made to fit precisely, over time they can become loose due to naturally occurring changes in the gums and bones. A healthy, attractive smile can help you feel and look your best. Professional cleanings and oral exams are essential ingredients for maintaining good oral and general health. n See ad for Paulette Paulin, DMD on this page.
LIFE PLANNING
Plastic Surgical Associates of Pittsburgh Robert W. Bragdon, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Board Certified in Plastic Surgery
Complete plastic surgical services including cosmetic (breast augmentation-silicone and saline, facelift, liposuction, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty) reconstructive, skin care, BOTOX, Radiesse and Restylane. St. Clair Hospital Office 1050 Bower Hill Road, Suite 105 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 412.572.6164 West Penn Hospital Office 4815 Liberty Ave, Suite 235 Pittsburgh, PA 15224 412.681.0586 Winter 2010
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LIFE PLANNING Life is…
Cindy Brophy, State Farm® Agent Life is… spending time with family and friends, watching a ball game, lying in a hammock on a Saturday afternoon. Life can be all of these things and more. Life is happy and sad and all things in between. It’s about living. But life is also about protecting your family from the unexpected. Life is making sure your family can continue without financial hardship if you are no longer around to help them. One way to do that is to have adequate life insurance coverage on you and your spouse. Life is… being protected with life insurance. you “ B u t l i f e a reWhether the main is also about breadwinner or protecting your not, the American Life Insurance family from the Council states you should have unexpected.” five to seven years’ worth of your salary in coverage. Others increase it to ten years. According to LIMRA, a worldwide association of insurance and financial services companies, 68 million adult Americans have no life insurance. The best way to determine your needs is to begin with calculating what long-term expenses you have that your loved ones would be responsible for if you were not around. These expenses could include a mortgage, college tuition, and everyday items such as food and clothing. The type of policy you choose is an important decision. Term coverage can be very affordable initially, but premiums may increase over the life of the policy. Permanent policies usually have higher premiums, but tend to stay level. How long you need the policy is also important to consider. A qualified life insurance professional can assist you in your calculations and show you policies that may fit your needs. Life is ever changing. Protecting your family from financial struggles after you are gone is what life insurance is all about. n
Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow… Our residents are singing a different tune this year!
Underground, weatherprotected parking and warm, crackling fireplaces. Those are just some of the reasons our residents are going to enjoy this winter like never before. to discover how warm and inviting we really are, come by for a tour! call us, 412-489-3550.
The best point in your life.
500 providence point bouLevard
See ad on page 34.
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pittsburgh, pa 15243
www.providencepoint.org
Winter 2010
LIFE PLANNING
New State-of-the-Art Operating Rooms at St. Clair Hospital St. Clair Hospital has added three new operating rooms to accommodate its growing patient volume. The hospital performs more than 11,000 surgeries a year. That volume is expected to increase approximately three to four percent annually. Two of the new rooms are 600 square feet and the third—the largest in the hospital—is 750 square feet. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including operating equipment and high definition (HD) monitors mounted to the ceiling via “booms,” which allow for easy access to and return of equipment. The new ORs feature the most advanced minimally invasive surgical tools, an integration system for routing radiologic images (e.g., CT scans) and pathologic data (e.g., biopsy results) between the new ORs and other departments, large windows to allow for natural light flow, and even satellite radio, and CD and iPOD docking stations. The new ORs are also designed to
address future technological advances. With the addition of the new ORs, the total number of main operating rooms at the hospital has reached 13. The 7429-square-foot addition also includes new scrub and sub-sterile areas and mechanical and electrical infrastructure upgrades. The cost of the project was $5.5 million. “The opening of St. Clair’s new surgical suites effectively addresses the hospital’s increasing rise in the number of surgical procedures it performs,” says Diane Puccetti, R.N., who manages the hospital’s operating rooms. “Most importantly, the additional space allows St. Clair’s surgeons to treat patients in a more comfortable, convenient, and modern setting with optimal efficiency, all of which contributes to reducing surgical times and putting patients on a faster road to recovery.” n
St. Clair Hospital’s 750-square-foot OR room
For more information about St. Clair Hospital, visit www.stclair.org. See ads on pages 1 and 71. Winter 2010
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LIFE PLANNING Life to the Fullest Ellen Troiano, Squirrel Hill
By offering the best combination of quality, security and value, Concordia of the South Hills allows you to enjoy your retirement years to the fullest. Call us at 412.278.1300 to set up a private tour. Ask about our introductory pricing and free upgrades available until the end of December. 1300 Bower Hill Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15243 1.877.220.7906 • www.concordia-southhills.org
• Cutting edge, sports specific training programs • Kettlebell training, group & custom individualized programs • Physical therapy— emphasizing an active, dynamic, training approach • Rehabilitation— specialists in dynamic, functional post-operative recovery • Staffed with licensed physical therapists and highly specialized trainers
Titleist Performance Instititute Certified
Clifford Milowicki, MSPT Alliance Physical Therapy and Performance Center
3540 Washington Rd. McMurray, PA 15317 724.941.7070
645 Rodi Rd. Penn Hills, PA 15235 412.242.7800
www.alliancephysicaltherapy.com
Man Up
Why Getting a Colonoscopy Could Be the Best Way to Preserve Your Manhood Dr. Mark Cedar
Jim Komis refers to himself as a “man’s man.” An army veteran and avowed sportsman, Komis taught middle school science and coached athletics at Mellon Middle School in Mt. Lebanon for more than 30 years before he retired in 2001. “All I wanted to do was hunt and fish,” the 65-year-old Komis recalls. Komis’ life took an unexpected turn in the summer of 2007 when he attended a health benefits seminar administered by Allegheny County Schools Health Insurance Consortium. Among the presenters was Dr. Lisa Oliva, who spoke of the importance of regular colonoscopies. “We manly men just don’t do this sort of thing,” Komis recalls telling himself. “Just the thought of that procedure makes the hair stand up on the back of my neck.” Despite Komis’ misgivings, Oliva’s presentation struck a chord. On July 13, 2007, Komis walked into the South Hills Endoscopy Center for his first colonoscopy. 40
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Within hours, Dr. Nicholas Bellicini detected and removed a 40-millimeter polyp from Komis, leaving the retired teacher and his family fearful that years of neglect had left him with cancer. Those fears were allayed four days later, however, when Komis received a call informing him that the diagnosis was dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition. The usual response from patients when doctors recommend a screening
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724.941.6663 colonoscopy is, “Doc, I feel fine.” But most polyps do not cause symptoms until they’ve progressed into a cancerous tumor that can spread throughout the body. Colorectal cancer (CRC) develops in the large intestine or rectum and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 77,000 new cases of CRC were diagnosed in men last year, and more than 24,000 men died from the disease. According to recent studies, both the incidence and mortality rates of CRC are declining due to improved screening efforts and earlier detection. However, numerous studies have shown that even greater reductions in CRC could be achieved if more men received regular screening colonoscopies. Nearly all colon and rectal cancers start out as small polyps that can become larger and progress to dysplasia and cancer. Several different types of polyps can form in the colon, but the most common and important are adenomas. These are the polyps that most often transform into cancer.
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1290 Boyce Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 724.941.3100 • www.friendshipvillagepa.com © 2010 Lifespace Communities, Inc.
The goal of CRC screening exams is to detect and remove adenomas before they progress. Numerous tests are available for CRC screening, but the gold standard is the colonoscopy. For this procedure, the patient is typically sedated and a thin, flexible rubber scope with a tiny camera is inserted into the rectum and advanced gently around the colon. Colonoscopy detects most small polyps and almost all large polyps and cancers, which are then removed and analyzed under a microscope. The typical exam lasts only 15-20 minutes. The average-risk patient with no family history of polyps or cancers and no symptoms should undergo his first screening colonoscopy at age 50. If no polyps are found, the exam should be repeated every ten years. Repeat exams may be recommended sooner in people with increased risk factors, such as men with a family history of polyps or CRC and African-Americans. Since he got his first colonoscopy, the changes in Komis’ life are noticeable. Out are the days when Komis avoided Winter 2010
Friendship Village of South Hills is one of only 15% of communities nationwide accredited by CARF–CCAC for quality practices in administration, finance, care and services to residents.
the doctor’s office and left his health to chance; in are the days of paying attention, attending health meetings, and seeing his doctor. “I feel like my life has been saved,” Komis says. n
Dr. Mark Cedar is a board certified gastroenterologist in private practice serving patients in the South Hills and the city of Pittsburgh. He is the chief of gastroenterology at St. Clair Hospital. Mark Hornung contributed to the article. Photography by Murray Dewhurst. This article is re-printed with the permission of ACSHIC magazine and Community Magazine Group. See South Hills Endoscopy ad on inside front cover. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors
Amy L. Billerbeck President 412-833-2712 2011*
Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-0622 2013*
Harry F. Kunselman Vice President 412-851-1115 2013*
Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2011*
Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2011*
Louis A. Piconi 412-831-1880 2011*
*Date indicates expiration of term.
Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2013*
Bruce L. Kerman 412-221-5407 2013*
The 2010-11 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is Rebecca A. Stern scheduled for July. 412-220-0745 2011*
School District Detailed Monthly Calendar Visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. School District Central Office Administration
To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, press 1, enter extension number followed by the # sign. Administrator
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction/ Supervisor of Special Education
Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Literacy, Assessment, and Professional Development
Ray Berrott Director of Technology
Dr. John Bornyas Director of Operations, Community Relations and Special Projects
Frosina Cordisco Director of Finance and Business
James Lersch Director of Human Resources
School District Building Administration
Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Pupil Personnel
Dr. Michael Ghilani ............ Principal of the High School Lou Angelo............................ Assistant Principal of High School Jace Palmer........................... Assistant Principal of High School Dr. William Rullo ............... Supervisor of High School Guidance Joseph DeMar . .................... Principal of Fort Couch Middle School John Rozzo............................ Assistant Principal of Fort Couch Middle School Karen Brown ....................... Principal of Boyce Middle School Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf .......... Principal of Baker Elementary School Mark Miller ......................... Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School Dr. Claire Miller .................. Principal of Streams Elementary School
USC School District website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us 42
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Secretary/Email Address Extension
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole................................ Mary Ann Stabile............................. 2201 Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky................................... Donna Faccenda / Assistant Superintendent for Cheryl Elison........................2218 / 2116 Curriculum and Instruction/ dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us Supervisor of Special Education cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. John Bornyas........................................ Karen Huckestein.............................2204 Director of Operations, Community khuckestein@uscsd.k12.pa.us Relations and Special Projects Dr. Judy Bulazo.......................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Director of Literacy, Assessment, dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us and Professional Development Frosina Cordisco........................................ Dawn Machi.....................................2220 Director of Finance and Business dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Berrott.................................................. Doreen Leech....................................2211 Director of Technology dleech@uscsd.k12.pa.us James Lersch............................................... Lea Lamanna....................................2286 Director of Human Resources llamanna@uscsd.k12.pa.us Eloise Stoehr............................................... Susan Bosco.....................................2283 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel sbosco@uscsd.k12.pa.us Chuck Samek, Matthews Bus Company . .. Karen Powers...................................3450 Transportation Manager kpowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Winter 2010
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Student Alumni Day— 50 Years of Sharing
Karen Dengler-Thompson, Class of 1961 After the 1960 and 1961 combined class reunion gathering on September 23, members of Upper St. Clair High School’s first graduating classes spent the following day celebrating at the high school with its staff and students. USC administration and 15 representatives from the classes of ’60 and ’61 designed a day of alumni educational experiences and assemblies for the student body. The alumni shared their personal insights resulting from each of their 50 years of experience after high school. USC Academic Hall of Fame inductee Dr. George Davis shared with students how science, language, literature, and history are inseparable. Robert Glenn, author of the USCHS Alma Mater, discussed music performance, composition, and arrangement with high school band director Don Pickell’s music classes. Continuing with the arts, Alan Colussy answered the question “Can one survive with an art degree?”
Sisters Sue Bayley and Toni Bayley Conaway looked at the subject of current affairs through their presentation of history, media, and sources. Students also learned about the fields of physical therapy, led by Lynne Parker Miller; sociology, led by Carol Schulz; teaching, led by Nancy Davis Settles and Gay McNaughton Shirley; and working during integration, led by Amy Ridley-Johnson and Eleanor Ross-Jackson. Mary Lou Halliwell-Barnhardt, Eleanor Ross-Jackson, and Diane Sutton Tracy shared how circumstances force you to adapt; Ed Rambo illustrated how small decisions determine who we become; and Merrily Walker-Neill presented life skills for everybody. The school day closed with an organized assembly presented by members of the classes of ’60 and ’61. After welcoming remarks, the students watched a video of “then and now,” narrated by Lanny Frattare, scripted by alumnus Robert Glenn, and compiled by Keith Froelich, high school media teacher. Students and alumni created a time capsule of their high school experiences. The time capsule has since been buried at Fort Couch Middle School, not to be opened until 2060, 50 years in the future. After the presentation of the anniversary plaque, cheerleaders rallied students and alumni for the evening’s football game. The assembly closed with the USCHS Alma Mater, which included an anniversary verse written by none other than Robert Glenn. n
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Preparing Leaders Lou Lou Angelo, Angelo, High High School School Assistant Assistant Principal Principal
Students celebrate their successful completion of a perseverance training activity.
In July, 20 Upper St. Clair High School students took a hiatus from their summer vacation. Deciding to place a priority on developing their leadership skills over fun in the sun, these 20 students attended the inaugural Upper St. Clair High School Leadership Academy. For one week from about 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., students gained exposure to leadership concepts and practices while accentuating the importance of reflecting and goal setting as they relate to personal leadership development. Influenced by a leadership framework known as Total Leaders created by Charles Schwahn, students experienced learning activities that stressed a leadership approach known as Authentic Leadership. This approach encourages students to discover who they are and why they make the decisions they make—because, ultimately, who you are is how you lead.
At 35 feet in the air, Jordan Ryan begins her walk across the elevated tree. 44
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The leadership academy was facilitated by Doug Kirchner, AP Psychology teacher and Lou Angelo, USCHS assistant principal. As lead facilitator, Doug had the responsibility of leading activities, discussions, and reflections. Together, Doug and Lou navigated the curriculum and ensured student understanding using a variety of instructional approaches that focused on experiential learning activities and reflection. Students began the first day with an icebreaker activity. Because students attending the academy ranged from grades nine to 12, it was important that the students got to know one another and increase their comfort levels with their peers. From that point, students began identifying what a leader is and discussing what leadership qualities look like, sound like, and feel like. The activity enlightened the students by exposing some myths about leadership, including the idea that you must hold a position of leadership in order to be a leader. Senior student Jeff Barkas admitted that it changed his perspective on leadership. A highlight of the first morning was a video conference session with author Dr. Charles Schwahn. Dr. Schwahn, a professional educator, author, and consultant, was excited for the opportunity to speak with USC students about improving their leadership skills. To assist Doug with accentuating the importance of reflection as it relates to leadership development, Dr. Schwahn “skyped” into the classroom from South Dakota. Dr. Schwahn helped to emphasize a number of critical concepts associated with Authentic Leadership, including: • Authentic leaders establish and embody purpose, values, and meaning throughout the organization. • Who you are as a person will ultimately be reflected in your leadership.
At 40 feet in the air, John Kyriacopoulos problem solves through the rope ladder in an attempt to reach the next stage.
• If you don’t have your personal act together, don’t expect to have your leadership act together. • Developing yourself as a leader begins with personal reflection, personal assessment, and personal growth. • Organizational change will reflect the personal change and character you model in both your personal and leadership lives. Students spent time in the afternoon discussing Dr. Schwahn’s presentation and making connections between the concepts he spoke of and their lives. By the end of the first day, students gained a better understanding of the concepts associated with Authentic Leadership, began to increase their personal comfort levels with one another, and were ready to take on the challenges awaiting them on day two. The second day exposed the students to new mental and physical challenges. Students and facilitators traveled to the Linsly Outdoor Center (LOC) at Raccoon State Park where they spent the morning and afternoon facing difficult problems designed to offer physically and mentally challenging team-oriented and individual activities. Students participated on the low ropes course in the morning, an activity which forced them to solve difficult problems within a large group setting. Following each challenge, the team of students was asked to reflect on their experience and identify the leadership principles that were present (or needed) and contributed to their success and, in some cases, their failure. After a break for lunch, the students were faced with the challenges of the high ropes course. Students were asked to confront their fears of height, failure, and physical exhaustion and participate in activities that forced them to climb, swing, balance, propel, and think under duress while they were between 25 and 35 feet in the air. The students completed these activities with a sense of pride and accomplishment, but, most importantly, the students made intellectual connections between the roles fear and belief play in their personal achievement. Day three welcomed a tired group of students and was a time dedicated to reflection. The students participated in an activity that forced them to consider who they are and which peer they would hire to work with them. Prior to the academy actually beginning, the students were asked to complete a free online survey
What the Students Said There are so many benefits. If you weren’t future-minded when you came here, you will definitely leave a new person! It helps you decide what you want out of life! This program has made me want to get to know myself better to make me a better leader. It helped me become a better leader and it helped me become a better person. I would recommend this academy to anyone because everyone can benefit from it, no matter how developed he or she is as a leader. I came to this workshop feeling a little scared and self-conscious, but this week has been a huge learning experience for me. I will take away so much from this. It’s a wonderful learning aspect and it’s fun!
After climbing across the tires, Pete Rigano swings from tire to tire to finish the challenge.
offered through the VIA Institute, which is specifically designed for people ages 10-17. The survey was used to identify the top five natural strengths each student personally possesses. After a thorough analysis, breakdown, and charting of each student’s strengths, each student was asked to role play the part of a CEO whose job was to hire a vice-president. Students selected two candidates by analyzing each student’s strengths and predicting which person would serve as a close match to their strengths, and which person would complement their strengths. After a twoquestion interview, the students selected their employee and explained their decision-making process. Students were then introduced to writing SMART (Specific, Measurable, Action-Oriented, Realistic, and Timely) goals, and given time to sit alone to reflect
The leadership academy has improved my leadership skills. I now have ideas and plans in place to improve myself and therefore improve my leadership abilities. I had a great time and a lot of fun this week. It was a great learning experience and inspirational! Before this program, I never gave much thought to the different types of plans to help me become a better leader. I feel that I’ve learned how to be a better leader. Talking about ambitions and values showed me that I can do a lot. It has taught me things I would never learn in a regular classroom. The activities challenged me to think about what leadership really is and inspired my personal growth.
Continued on page 46 Winter 2010
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Continued from page 45
and develop personal goals that would foster leadership development. These goals then became the foundation of each student’s Personal Leadership Plan (PLP), a written plan designed to assist with their development. The plan requires the students to identify their personal mission statements, visions, and developmental goals. Students must identify a leadership coach and meet with that person twice during the next year to assess their development. After spending an entire day reflecting, the students were ready to focus on something other than themselves. Day four was designed to teach the students how to persevere through adverse situations. In the morning, the students interacted with Bill Shirk, director of finance for Crown Castle Corporation. Bill, who formerly served as the company’s director of leadership development, discussed an approach to dealing with adversity that describes adversity as F.E.A.R. (False Expectations Appearing Real). He discussed with the students how a concept known as C.O.R.E. (Control, Ownership, Reach, and Endurance) can assist them through adverse situations. Later in the day, former Upper St. Clair student Danny Cafaro spoke to the students
about his personal battle and victory over cancer. A 2005 USCHS graduate, Danny offered a great perspective on dealing with adversity as a young adult. Both presentations left lasting impressions on the students, and the students were able to reflect on Danny’s story and determine how he utilized C.O.R.E. to persevere through such an ordeal. The last day of the academy was a designed workshop day. The students spent the morning working on their PLPs under the guidance of Doug, Lou, and Bill. After a long and intense week, the students were eager to celebrate their achievements. The academy ended with a celebratory luncheon attended by the students, their parents, and USC administrators. During the celebration, students were addressed and commended for their participation by Dr. Patrick O’Toole, USC School District superintendent, and Dr. Michael Ghilani, USCHS principal. In addition, Dr. Ghilani informed the students that they would be serving on his Student Leadership Team in an advisory capacity. The students and parents enjoyed their lunch together and then each student was recognized and awarded with a certificate of achievement and a leadership academy shirt. n
The
Leadership
Academy—
What’s Next? Lou Angelo, USCHS assistant principal and creator of the Upper St. Clair High School Leadership Academy has a much broader blueprint for the academy than just a onetime workshop. “My vision is to institute a program designed to foster leadership skills for all our students K-12.”
“My vision is to institute a program designed to foster leadership skills for all our students K-12.” Mr. Angelo plans on adding a second phase of the leadership academy, Visionary Leadership, and implementing it next July. Visionary Leadership will be designed for those students who participated in the first phase, Authentic Leadership, this past summer. The Authentic Leadership Academy will again be offered next July to interested high school students. “Ideally, we will eventually offer four phases of leadership training at the high school alone.” Lou said. “And with the support we have received from our school board, administration, and community, I don’t see why we couldn’t begin the design process to also offer the academy to our elementary and middle school students.”
USCHS Leadership Academy participants, left to right, front row: Hannah Harris, Marissa Behun, Adam Sneath, Pete Rigano, Hannah Diehl, Sadie Kalathunkal; middle row: Maria Alessi, Megan Povenz, Mackenzie Rodgers, Jordan Ryan, Morgan Wangler, Poorwa Godbole, Allison Muck, Jeff Barkas, USCHS teacher Doug Kirchner; back row: USCHS assistant principal Lou Angelo, John Kyriacopoulos, Tara Williams, Arjun Sharma, Sean Gaudio, Milo Freese, Jack Schwaba
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USC School District Libraries Awarded We the People Bookshelf Collection
Upper St. Clair School District libraries are six of 4000 libraries across the country selected by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the American Library Association (ALA) to receive free hardcover editions of 17 classic books as part of the We the People Bookshelf grant program. The theme of this year’s Bookshelf is “A More Perfect Union.” The We the People Bookshelf on “A More Perfect Union” contains the following books: • Kindergarten to Grade 3: Tico and the Golden Wings by Leo Lionni; When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Muñoz Ryan; A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution by Betsy and Giulio Maestro • Grades 4 to 6: César: ¡ Sí, Se Puede! / Yes, We Can! by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand; Darby by Jonathon Scott Fuqua; Eagle Song by Joseph Bruchac; The Great Little Madison by Jean Fritz • Grades 7 to 8: Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson; Hitch by Jeanette Ingold; Lincoln Shot: A President’s Life Remembered by Barry Denenberg; Warriors Don’t Cry by Melba Beals • Grades 9 to 12: American Creation: Triumphs and Tragedies at the Founding of the Republic by Joseph Ellis; Carver: A Life in Poems by Marilyn Nelson; Killer Angels by Michael Shaara; Lincoln in His Own Words by Milton Melzer; Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose; The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. DuBois • Bonus: The Civil War: A Film by Ken Burns; The Civil War: An Illustrated History by Geoffrey Ward, Ric Burns, Ken Burns; Declaring Independence: The Origin and Influence of America’s Founding Document edited by Christian Y. Dupont
The award is part of the NEH’s We the People initiative, which supports projects that strengthen the teaching, study, and understanding of American history and culture. Selected public and school libraries in all 50 states each will receive a set of the 17 books, bonus materials, including a DVD edition of The Civil War, the award-winning documentary by Ken Burns, posters, bookmarks, bookplates from the NEH and the ALA, and access to online planning and promotional materials. Since 2003, NEH and ALA have distributed 17,000 We the People Bookshelf grants to school and public libraries across the country. Throughout the 2010-11 school year, school district libraries will present programs on the theme of “A More Perfect Union” for their students and school communities. n High school librarian Janine Despines with the We the People Bookshelf collection
For more information about We the People Bookshelf programs at the Upper St. Clair School District libraries, contact individual school librarians, or visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/46651051515557867/site/default. asp and click on the “A More Perfect Union” link on the left side bar. For more information about the We the People Bookshelf project, visit http:// publicprograms.ala.org/bookshelf.
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Winter 2010
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A Time Line of Schools
Information provided by Jean Brown and the Upper St. Clair Historical Society
1880’s Cook School
1790’s Higbee School
1920 School Bus (This caused the smaller schools to close and students were bused to three larger schools.)
1894 McMillan School
1860’s Caldwell School
1860’s
1790’s 1850’s
1880’s 1880’s
1925 McMillan (second school)
1920
1894 1888
1900
1925 1920
1920 Clifton (second school)
1888 Philips School
1850’s St. Clair School
1909 Report Card
1880’s Lesnett School
1900 Clifton School 48
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1925 Cook School (second school)
in Upper St. Clair
SD
1999-2000 High School Renovation
1951 Fort Couch School
1969 Baker School
1956 Johnston School
1956 1951
1962 1959
1966 1963
1969 1969
1999-2000 1985
1985 Wesley Institute
1959 Eisenhower School
1969 Boyce School 1962 Upper St. Clair High School
1963 St. Louise de Marillac
1966 Streams School Winter 2010
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A Time Line of Schools in Upper St. Clair
2010 Boyce Middle School
2010 Fort Couch Middle School
2000 USC High School Boyce Middle School rendition
2000
Fort Couch Middle School rendition
2010
2004
2004 Baker Elementary School
2004 Eisenhower Elementary School
2004 Streams Elementary School
Renovated and New Spaces Provide for a Successful Start as Project Continues
Dr. John Bornyas, Director of Operations, As students and staffs enjoyed the start of the 2010-11 school year in renovated and new spaces at Boyce and Fort Couch Middle Schools, the middle schools’ renovation project continues into the second and final year. This second year of the project will see Phases 2C, 3A, 3B, and 3C completed at Boyce Middle School. Phase 2C includes the renovation of the LGI room and the north classrooms surrounding this area. This work will be completed in December 2010. Phase 3A will start in January 2011 and continue to August 2011. It will include the renovation of the quad classrooms that surround the courtyard and transformation of the former administration offices and special education classrooms along the front of the school building into two classroom team pods. Phase 3B will start in April 2011 and will result in the renovation of the gymnasium. Finally, Phase 3C will start in late June 2011 and result in the new entrances being completed. Phases 3B and 3C will be completed by the start of the District’s 2011-12 school year. The second year of the project at Fort Couch Middle School will include Phases 2A, 2B, and 2C. Phase 2A will be completed by April 2011 and will result in completing the gymnasium addition and converting the existing ground floor of the building into a new industrial technology instructional area. Phases 2B and 2C will be completed by August 2012 and will result in converting the 50
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Community Relations, and Special Projects existing first floor into an administrative suite and classrooms, the second floor into the family and consumer science and art areas, and the addition of the new south entrance to the building. n
New Spanish classroom at Boyce
Newly renovated nutrition center at Fort Couch
For more information on the middle schools renovation project, see article found on page 40 of the spring 2010 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY and visit the School District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
SD
PYBC Presents “The Nutcracker”
Over the 27-year history of Pittsburgh Youth Ballet
Company & School, the “The Nutcracker” Dew Drop— traditional, full length USC’s Kathryn Miller production of “The Nutcracker” has developed into a cherished institution among the dancers, critics, and its patrons. PYBC provides a wealth of otherwise rare performing opportunities for young dancers and showcases the fruits of a rigorous, world-class ballet training program. “Some parents think you must be very talented and very good to become a student of PYBC,” says managing director Kristen Busselberg, “but often the opposite is true. My daughter started dancing at PYBC when we moved to Pittsburgh four years ago. She molded from a somewhat awkward, but enthusiastic little dancer into a poised, confident dancer who has enjoyed many life-altering opportunities and experiences that could not have been realized elsewhere.” Many PYBC alumni are now dancing around the world as members of major ballet companies, including Faye Authurs of Upper St. Clair. “The encouragement and experience I received at Pittsburgh Youth Ballet gave me a real advantage in my career as a professional dancer,” she said. This year’s “The Nutcracker” performance will be held December 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m. and December 4 and 5 at 2:30 p.m. at Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. Discounts are offered for senior citizen groups and discounts and Badge & Patch opportunities for Girl Scouts, Daisy, and Brownies are available. n See ad on this page.
Meet Jim Lersch
Upper St. Clair School District’s new Director
of Human Resources, Jim Lersch, calls his job “the capstone of my career.” Jim grew up in Scott Township, attending Our Lady of Grace School and Chartiers Valley High School. He went on to earn his BA in psychology from Duquesne University and his MS in industrial relations from West Virginia University. He then hit the ground running, working in increasingly responsible human resources roles in Florida, Mississippi, Kansas, and Texas. Family considerations drew him back to the greater Pittsburgh area, and Jim worked with corporate employers, including Calgon Corporation and Dollar Bank, where he held the chief human resources officer position. Most recently, Jim was the head of talent acquisition for U.S. Steel. For Jim, one of the pivotal moments in his professional life occurred early in his career when he was working in Houston. While there, he designed and implemented a business/school partnership, including teacher enrichment and curriculum design, for a largely minority school district of about 40,000 students. The partnership received national attention and a personal visit from then Deputy Secretary of Education Dianne Ravich. “My work in Houston sparked an interest in education that has stayed with me,” said Jim. “When this opportunity became available in Upper St. Clair, it was a way to become re-engaged with education in a community I care about.”
Jim said that he is committed to education and providing human resource services to ensure that USC remains the best school district in Pennsylvania. In addition, Jim plans to share his private sector experience with the high school administration and the guidance department staff. Jim hopes to provide first-hand advice regarding what employers are looking for in students who are entering the work force. One of Jim’s short term goals is to use his extensive experience in human resources to help the community at large with career related topics like resumé preparation, job search strategy, and the importance of building a professional network. Jim and his family live in nearby Collier Township. In his spare time, Jim enjoys reading, doing things around the house, and traveling for pleasure. For Jim, joining the District’s team is like coming full circle in his career. “I grew up nearby and moved away. I experienced a highlight in my early career that changed me. I’ve accomplished all I hoped to professionally and I now have a chance to give back and share with the Jim Lersch Upper St. Clair community.” n Winter 2010
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2010 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame
Nine of Upper St. Clair’s finest were honored on Friday, October 8 at the 11th anniversary of the Upper St. Clair
High School Halls of Fame. The newest members of the Halls of Fame were individually recognized during pre-game festivities before the Upper St. Clair football game against Peters Township. It is with great pride that we welcome the following inductees of the 2010 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame and hold in esteem the 209 honorees recognized before them.
Arts Hall of Fame
Academic Hall of Fame
Timothy Hobbs
Athletic Hall of Fame Jennifer E. Bell
James Eshleman
Aimee Hernandez
Brendan McGuire
David Seidenfeld
Thomas Smedley
Sean Lee
2010 USCHS Halls of Fame
Academic
Student Alumni Honorees Jennifer E. Bell (1994) James Eshleman (1977) Aimee Hernandez (1997) Brendan McGuire (1980) David Seidenfeld (1996)
Administrative/Staff Honorees Thomas Smedley
Arts
Student Alumni Honorees Timothy Hobbs (1998)
Kevin Slowey
Athletics
Student Alumni Honorees Sean Lee (2005) Kevin Slowey (2002)
(Year in parentheses indicates year of USCHS graduation)
Welcome to USC School District’s new hires for the 2010-11 school year:
Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service:
Administrative: James Lersch Professional: Marc-Andre Clermont (USCHS), Timothy Hartnett (USCHS), Sarah Klingler (USCHS), William Corey Langley (USCHS), Jennifer Noel (Boyce), Sean O’Rourke (USCHS) Classified: Jill Baltutat, Bernard Gene Kmetz, Beverly Nemeth
Administrative: Lee Schaffer, Jean Toner Administrative Support: Bonnie Thomas Professional: Gloria Christofano, Karen O’Hara, Theresa Serniak Classified: Pam Bergman, Marilyn Cimarolli, Sandra DeFerio, Olga Deliman, Diane Kuna, Albert Molnar, Tim Opfermann, David Shelpman, Michael Snyder, Jeanne Trygar, Raymond Zawatski, Janet Zucker
Hail 52
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Farewell
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USC Principal Wins National Award
Eisenhower principal Mark Miller has been selected timely, based on daily assessments, and focused,” said Mark, exas the Pennsylvania 2010 National Distinguished Principal by the plaining that second chance learning opportunities are important Pennsylvania Association of Elementary and Secondary School because not all kids learn things the first time. Principals (PAESSP). He was recognized by the U.S. Department “I lead it,” said Mark, “but nothing works unless everyone is of Education and the National Association of Elementary School buying in.” Principals in Washington, DC on October 14-15 and acknowledged After earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Point Park at the PAESSP state conference in Pittsburgh on October 24. University, Mark’s professional career began as a program auditor USC Superintendent of Schools Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole said, at NASA’s Goddard Space Center. Realizing that he wanted more “Mark Miller is very deserving of interaction with people, he went back this award. He is an authentic leader to school for his teaching certificate of a dynamic learning community at at the University of Pittsburgh, where Eisenhower Elementary.” he also earned his master of educaThe letter announcing Mark’s tion in administrative and policy selection said he was being honored studies. He is currently working for his work “over the last eight toward his doctorate at Pitt. years to improve student achieveMark stated that there hasn’t ment for the students of Eisenhower been a day that he’s regretted wakElementary School” and “his vision ing up and going to work since he for what successful schools should started with USC School District as be.” a teacher at Streams Elementary in “We have such a terrific staff, 1995, where he worked until he was great kids, and a community that named principal of Eisenhower in supports us and believes in educa2002. “That’s not to say there haven’t tion,” said Mark. “And we cannot do been long days, but I thoroughly Principal Mark Miller and some Eisenhower students what we do without the support of enjoy what I am doing and find it pose for the camera on the first day of school. the superintendent, assistant supervery rewarding when it works well intendent, and the school board. To for families,” said Mark. Even when The Man of the Hour receive this award is a great honor,” he’s having a bad “adult” day with he said, “and it’s terrific to be part of mountains of paperwork and deadAll the accolades are in, and we know who did win it, without a doubt. But it really is a lines, Mark said that interacting with Principal Mark Miller is his name. group effort.” a child can make it a good day. His superior dedication, has turned into creation During the PAESSP’s site visit to Supporting Mark behind the When it comes to the education game. Eisenhower, the selection committee scenes is his strong team at home: When visited by the state, he was put on their slate spoke with a parent group, several his wife, Rachel, and their three His name appeared on the top of the list. teacher groups, and got to meet casons, Sam, seven, Nate, five, and When he was given their test to see who was best sually with students and parents Ben, three. Mark said, “Rachel is terThey made sure that nothing was missed. during a pre-scheduled function that rific and very supportive. She makes was taking place during the visit. sacrifices as well, like when I have to It was noticed for sure, as they walked through the door Mark said it was a very positive visit be at school for an open house or a A clean environment was seen by all. and one of the topics discussed was movie night or other events. She is Wherever they did roam, with their fine tooth comb Eisenhower’s professional learning always positive and willing to be a Eisenhower School stood up very tall. community model. He explained part of it or work it out so I can enjoy that the Eisenhower staff went from the best of both worlds.” You have an amazing staff, they said with a laugh a “Did we teach it?” mentality to a Because Rachel is an occupational It’s apparent they know what needs done. “Did they learn it?” mentality. therapist who works with children, We all know from the past, that you and your cast “It is not enough just to teach Mark said he has learned a lot about Would really love to remain number one. a concept and move on. We must how children develop from listening make sure that we respond accordto her. So without hesitation, it’s time for a celebration ingly with challenges or supports Part of Mark’s philosophy as an For Mr. Mark Miller to receive this award. when children have or have not educator is the importance of famThe time you put in, making you and the District win learned. There is an intense focus ily. “I want families at Eisenhower Is applauded by the USC School Board. on student learning and a strong to interact,” he said, “and we try to There are others out there, not just Upper St. Clair belief to offer second chance learnbring families together as much as That want to be the first to shake your hand. ing opportunities if students do not possible. The staff, parents, and stuParents, kids, the community, your staff, and myself understand a concept. It sounds dents are all a team and, hopefully, Now it’s finally time to strike up the band. simple, but we act very intentionally the kids take away that we’re all in to accomplish this for students. The this together.” n —Jay Walsh, former Eisehower custodian key is these opportunities must be Winter 2010
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Principals of of USC USC Principals
Traditionally, the head teacher or school principal was the most senior teacher and leader of a school. But as time passed, in the United States “principal” became the title used for the head administrator of an elementary school, middle school, or high school. (This title is also common in other English-speaking countries, including India and Australia.) Books and documents relating to the early days of public education in the United States show that the title was originally “Principal Teacher” which accounts for the present day title having an adjectival form. In the Upper St. Clair School District, the school principal was always viewed as the “instructional leader” of the school even before the term came into vogue in the later part of the 20th century, together with head school administrator. Numerous principals at the various schools in the District have contributed to its success over the years. As the first graduating class from Upper St. Clair High School celebrates its 50th reunion, it is appropriate that a history of the school principals be compiled for the first time. With the help of retired District administrators including John Small, John Gido, Carl Lindstrom, Dr. Robert Furman, and Dr. William A. Pope, the following is what can be considered a “first draft” of the official historical list of the principals that have served the schools in Upper St. Clair School District. (Note: The black and white photos in this article are from newspaper clippings of USC School District administration and staff in the early 60s.) n
Principals of the Upper St. Clair School District Baker Elementary School John Gido 1968–1969 Thomas Rapp 1969–1970 Dr. Robert Furman 1971–1984 John Gido 1984–1993 Ted Barnett 1993–2002 Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf 2002–present Boyce Middle School James Welsh 1969–1984 Dr. Robert Furman 1984–1993 Ted Barnett 1986–1987 Beverly Krill 1993–1996 Jason Lopez 1996–2000 Dr. John Bornyas 2000–2001 Dr. William Rullo 2001–2002 Karen Brown 2002–present Eisenhower Elementary School Carl Utberg 1960–1963 John Small 1963–1966 Carl Lindstrom 1966–1975 Victor Morrone 1975–1981 Dr. William Pope 1982 Ted Barnett 1982–1983 Dr. Robert Broggi 1982–1998 Ted Barnett 1991 Patricia Smith 1998–2002 Dr. Judith Bulazo 2002 Mark Miller 2002–present
Eisenhower principal Mark Miller and secretary Kathy Robinson
Left to right are George Betcher, Niles Norman, Ronald Christ USCHS principal Dr. Michael Ghilani and secretaries Kristie Dawson (left) and Liz Willard
Boyce principal Karen Brown (front) and secretaries Irene Koestner (left) and Hedy Pitcairn
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Left to right, front row: John Small, John Gido, Stanley Zingle; back row: John Wasson, Donald Stoicovy Winter 2010
Baker principal Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf (right) and secretary Laura Goldner
Fort Couch Middle School Dr. Albert Baker 1951–1957 District Supervising Principal and K-6 Principal George Betcher 1951–1961 Grades 7 -12 Principal Dr. Donald Eichhorn 1961–1965 Donald Stoicovy 1965–1966 Jack Wasson 1966–1986 Thomas Harshman 1986–1996 Dr. Timothy Steinhauer 1996–2004 Joseph DeMar 2004–present
Upper St. Clair High Dr. Stanley Zingle Dr. Joseph Ferderbar Donald Stoicovy James Weaver Dr. Parnell Hoffman Dr. Terrance Kushner Dr. Timothy Steinhauer Dr. Michael Ghilani
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School 1960–1967 1967–1969 1969–1972 1972–1976 1976–1996 1996–2004 2004–2006 2006–present
Johnston Elementary School Dr. Albert Baker 1957–1961 Ronald Christ 1961–1963 John Gido 1963–1968 Dr. Robert Broggi 1969–1982 Streams Elementary School John Small 1966–1985 Patricia Dunkis 1985–1996 Ted Barnett 1992–1993 Beverly Krill 1996–2004 Dr. Claire Miller 2004–present
Streams principal Dr. Claire Miller (left) and secretary Jettie Kaplan
USC principals and teachers, left to right, front row: Jim Criss, Dick Garlur, John Gido, Donald Eichhorn, Kenneth Marks; back row: Jack Parrish, Stanley Zingle, Vic Zurow, Jim Welsh, and John Small
Fort Couch principal Joe DeMar (center), assistant principal John Rozzo and secretaries Teresa Bryson (front) and Sharon Lacey
JAB Jewelry—an Indigenous Gem Mike Grape
Mark Twain once said “It is better to have old second-hand diamonds than none at all.” No need to settle for second-hand as the South Hills community already has a top-rated gem at its fingertips—JAB Jewelry. “Simply Original” is the credo envisioned by founder and proprietor Joseph Bonasso. An award-winning designer and Upper St. Clair native (Class of ’84), Joe was encouraged by his high school art teacher to pursue a career that complemented his design abilities and aesthetics. Joe parlayed metalworking and design classes into an apprenticeship at the Clark Building in downtown Pittsburgh. Five years later, Joe opened a jewelry service repair center in the same building. He has been following his muse ever since. JAB Jewelry’s new location on Route 19 in Peters Township offers a relaxed contemporary showroom that carries many original works from Joe and his staff, as well as other handcrafted lines in silver, gold, and platinum. “No two people are alike,” says Bonasso. “We are all designed as originals. Our desire is to craft distinctive works of art for each individual customer.” “We love recycling old into new,” Joe explains, discussing the emotional experience of reviving a cherished piece of jewelry passed down from generation to generation. Joe and his staff work with each customer to design and create a new piece that fits perfectly, in both the physical and aesthetic sense. “All of our work is done in-house,” Joe says when he described the significant investment in the repair and manufacturing facility which allows JAB Jewelry to weld an Old World artisanship with 21st century technology tools such as 3D CAD modeling and laser welding. “We do everything jewelry,” Joe says. Stop by and see for yourself! n
See ad on this page. Winter 2010
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“Paws”-itively PTA
A USC PTA Council Crossword
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Stacie de la Parra, PTA Council President ACROSS 5 – Standing committees like GATE (Gifted and Talented Education), TIE (Together in Education), PIE (Partners in Education) allow PTA Council to offer meaningful ______ programs for all flavors of students in the District. (Hint: It’s the “P” in PTA) 8 – The inaugural class of Upper St. Clair High School graduated in June 1960. This year’s class, the Class of ______, will mark the 52nd graduating class at the high school. (Hint: It’s the second part of the convenience store where you can buy a “slurpee”) 11– On Friday, September 24, 2010, PTA Council hosted a “_______ Event,” which included dinner and football game admission for new families in USC Township. (Hint: Word of kindly greeting) 12 – The “Earthwarden Program” at ______ Valley is the culmination of the sixth grade science study at Boyce. Proceeds from the fundraiser in #18 DOWN help fund the student portion of the adventure. (Hint: Either a buck or a doe) 13 – The USC ________ Directory is a proud publication of the PTA Council and all PTAs/PTSO. (Hint: It’s one of the approximately 4100 K-12 graders in the District) 15 – The Fort Couch PTA annually plans a move-up day for students about to enter the high school. This year, USCHS Class of 2015 will celebrate moving up at the “_______ Grade Farewell” in June. (Hint: After seventh, before ninth) 17 – It’s what the PTA and PTSO organizations need the most, as part of our active membership drive. (Hint: It’s not me, it’s ___!) 19 – When midday arrives, Eisenhower students gather for lunch at Café ___, for an enjoyable dining experience. (Hint: Dwight D.’s nickname) 20 – It’s what Fort Couch students will do less of, while they await construction of a new state-of-the-art gymnasium. (Hint: Synonym for “perspiration”) 21 – Streams takes pride in its butterfly _______, an outside classroom that has PTA families donating their time yearround to keep it beautiful. (Hint: Think Madison Square_____ in New York City) 22 – “_____, partner!” is how the Streams families may have greeted one another at this past fall’s Western-themed school fundraiser, “Stravaganza.” (Hint: Frecklefaced cowboy marionette of 1950s TV fame, _____ Doody)
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DOWN 1 – WBKR are the call letters of this elementary school’s TV station. (Hint: It’s not Eisenhower or Streams) 2 – Baker PTA collaborates for its annual fundraiser, the “Baker _____, which was held on October 15, 2010. (Hint: The dictionary describes it as a “playful escapade” and cooks sprinkle these briny buds on salads) 3 – PTA Council has added “Spelling ____” to our list of standing committees and plans to offer programs this year at the elementary and middle schools. (Hint: Annoying picnic pest that stings) 4 – The new facility at Boyce Middle School that audiences and performers cannot wait to enjoy (Hint: You’ll find more than one on and around Broadway) 6 – With categories in dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts, and four grade divisions, it’s PTA’s National Art Contest. (Hint: What many people see when they look in mirrors) 7 – With past speakers on “Internet Safety” and “Coping Skills for Kids,” _______ in Parenting, or “TIP,” is the PTA committee offering support and education on challenging parenting issues. (Hint: Opposite of “apart”) 9 – It’s the “spooky” name for Eisenhower’s fall PTA fundraiser, which can be a “howling” good time. (Hint: Add the letter “L” somewhere in the name of the school) 10– Black and white are USC’s school ______, and the ones that the graduating class will wear at Commencement on Thursday, June 16, 2011. They were chosen by the inaugural Class of 1960. (Hint: The primary ones include red, yellow, and blue) Winter 2010
14 – PTA at Fort Couch, through student dues, offers “socials” throughout the year, where students enjoy getting together, playing in the gym, and _____ to the latest songs. (Hint: “______ With the Stars”) 16 – With standing committees like “_____ and Safety” and “Legislation,” it’s a way for PTA Council to stay abreast of current topics and keep the public informed. (Hint: It’s usually the classroom companion for gym) 18 – Your Boyce student neighbors may have approached you this fall to purchase items from _____ Foster, the primary PTA fundraiser at the school. (Hint: Dick and Jane’s baby sister) n Crossword Puzzle Contest Good at crosswords? Then try your hand at “Paws”-itively PTA. Crosswords are fun and this one might just teach you a thing or two about our schools and our PTA organization. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is accepting answers to the puzzle and offering prizes, including front row tickets to the USCHS spring musical, guest passes to the C&RC, or free tennis court time to the first six contestants who submit correct answers to: Crossword Contest/USC TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 (Please include the completed puzzle and your contact name, phone, email, and street address for prize notification. Answers will be printed in the spring 2011 edition of UPPER ST.CLAIR TODAY. One entry per household due by December 31, 2010. No age restriction.)
D i d Y o u K n o w ? D i d Y o u K n o w ? DDid i d Y o u Know? K n o w ? You D i d Y o u K n o w ? Poets mising Pro D i d Y o u K n o w ? Graci, and Anna Rosati, along with l hiel Das , ilco Was ica USCHS students Jess in thew ? e finalists ati, wer D i d Y201o uuate Peter Ros K n o 0 USC grad test. Con n egie Library of Pittsburgh’s Ralph Mun D i d Y Carn o u K n o w ? t shor ry, poet for The contest, which had categories and d rtise adve was on, n o w ? creative nonficti on, and D i d Y fictio u K Janine Despines promoted by high school librarians p librarnshi D i d Y ando u K n o w ? Tow USC the Debbie Rentschler and from ent owm end an by ed fund contest is . The u D i d Y ianso K n o w ? h director, Ralph former Carnegie Library of Pittsburg lished in works wer D i d Y Mun on, andu neypub o w ? the finalists’K . 2010 olog Anth ing Writ tive Crea n Mun h D i d Y Ralp o u K n o w ? Partners in Educat D i d Y o u K ionn o arw ? (PIE) Calend of Events • Tuesday, December 21, 9:30 a.m.–Aurelia’s D i d Y o Restaur u ant K n o w ? D i d Y o uCome haveK n ? a coffee and ao sweet!w Chat with other parents as well as administrators. Watch for an D iScoud Y o emailed u “ConstK n o w ? t Earns Silver Award ant Contact” for further details. l Gir er of lcombe, a memb • Tuesda y, K D Kyila Cod Y o u w ? Februan ry 15, o 7 p.m.–U SC High ned her ear s ha 5, 40 51 op School LGI Scout Tro ond DGirl iScoutd u K n o w ? the seco Silver Award,Y • Tuesday, April 19, 9:30 a.m.–Aurelia’s Restaurant e Th . ng uti Sco ard in Girl Y o u st aw For questionK DhigrlheiSco d ninforma o s or more tion, w contact ? Deb a Silver Award represents ut Gi Berlin at ddb1721 g@comc ast.net or 412-835 -3748,? or utSco l Gir in s ent Dgirl’siaccom d Y o u K n o w plishm Lisa Merchant at cljcmerch@aol.com or 412-257-4016. ws community as she gro and her Ding i d Y o K n o w ? the u life and and works to improve her ers. Dlivesiof othd Y o u K w ? Buckeyen s in Upo per St. Clair the award on ng rki wo an beg Th la e Ohio State University wo Ky level. u Dwhi d Ydetteo K n aga omen’sw ?m soccer tea was in town for a game en she bridged to the Ca in ins t ted Pit ple t on com Fri t, day, jec Award pro Y o u DHeriSilverrd K n w ? Auo gu on st ssi 27 mi a , bu at rk t the wo to y s me 2009, wa weo . u re in USw na izo Ar C the in Dsum i d Y o K n ? on nig ati ht erv res on a Navaho before to enjoy a homeshe painted a the mission, Y ile atd DWh i o u K n o w coo of ked din y lwa ner at ? hal ten the mural in the kindergar Waw lcom- u lke r ho ? re weo me D theischood Y K n o l to make it mo ted on Ch ero ke e children and participa to the D ing i d Y o u K n o la Ky R s. ow a d . A? day ht eig ly for in community life for Wa ney lke mo r, n a 20 ow 09 her D perisonally draised Y o u K n oU S Cw ? HS grad trip expenses. CH S, u D iKyla,d Yat USo K n oan dw a so ph? oa so ph om ore ia tor mo Vic re d at an OS m To U, of ter gh inv dau ited her D isithe d Y o uher par K w ? teammn ates for o a meal pro vided by ents, Luke and Amy Wa Colcombe. D i d Y o u K n olker.w ? D i d Y o u K n o w ? D i d Y o Wa urm Up K n o w ? Those Vocal Chords e Upper D i d of muThY o u K n o w ? St. Cla ir High Schoo l Chanteclairs, under the sic teacher Lorraine Mi direction have been D i d MusicY u lovac, K ? n inviteo d to perw form at the Educao tors National Conference (M EN C) Bie nnial Eastern Division In-Ser vice Coo nference,u D i d Bal Y K o w ? hosted by Maryl and Mun sic Educators Association timore. Fresh from earnin in g rave reviews in singing at the Pen D i d MusicY o K n o w ? Educator nsylvania s Assocu iation (PMEA) state music conference in Pittsburgh ril, the Chanteclairs will be the fea D i d alasnatt Apion Y o u K n o w ? ture cha mb er cho ir performing for al audience of music edu cators, school administr and the ators, mu D i d oth Y u K n o w musico sician? industry, s, in conjunction with numerous MENC er performances, exhibi me etings, ts, and ics on Ma D i d ChantY o u clinK n ? rch 31o -April 3,w eclairs ear 2011.The ned this distinction throu gh a com pet itiv e rankin on the dig g proces? D i d based Y o n o w s ital recu ording of theirK performa nce at PMEA. D i d Y o u K n o w ? D i d Y o u K n o w ?
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Left to right are Anna Rosati, Dashiell Graci, and Jessica Wasilco. Not pictured is Peter Rosati.
Winter 2010
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Dave Walk—Walking the Halls of USC for 40 Years Wayne Herrod
If there is anyone in Upper St Clair who is more of a historian about Upper St. Clair School District than Dave Walk, he must be hiding! UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY recently sat down with Dave to cover a story about his 40-year involvement with the USC schools. To my surprise, Dave talked about the schools in Upper St. Clair as far back as 60 years and up through the present. I couldn’t even begin to relay all the interesting facts that Dave knows about the District. Needless to say, his memory and attention to detail is impressive! Dave has either worked for the USC School District as an employee or a consultant for the past 40 years. He graduated from Peters Township High School in 1965, then joined the Navy for two years of active duty and two years of Reserve duty. After his discharge from active duty, Dave attended the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. His background in the Navy and his schooling made him a virtual “Mr. Fix It.” He continues in that role today. While Dave has an interest in horticulture, he really lives and breathes the schools in USC. With so many years under his belt, Dave could be considered a walking encyclopedia on the subject. Dave mentioned that USC has always been on the cutting edge of education, from developing the middle school philosophy to the technology offering in all the school buildings.
Dave Walk
“The School Board has always made sure that we have what we need to be the best school district around,” added Dave. Dave relayed one of the many facts about the District’s buildings. “Did you know that we can adjust the temperature in a room to one-tenth of one degree to suit a classroom’s needs? And the technology for the acoustics and lighting is second to none.” These upgrades and improvements have certainly provided USC schools and its students with a great environment for learning. Dave commented on the students and also shared what he enjoys the most about USC. “Kids today are more mature and advanced than they were 15 years ago,” he said. “I like being involved. USC is a fun place to be and I hope to continue doing what I’m doing for a long time to come.” Thanks Dave for the 40 years, and I say, “Let’s shoot for 50!” n
USC Buses Have New Home
In addition to transporting students, the Upper St. Clair School District’s transportation operations have also been on the move. Located behind Eisenhower Elementary School during the 1950s and then moving to a location next to the Fort Couch School (later to be known as Fort Couch Middle School), the District’s fleet of vehicles had a one-year stint at the Upper St. Clair High School upper parking lot during the 2009-10 school year. With the start of the 2010-11 school year, District transportation operations have moved to a one-purpose site located at 100 Red Line Lane, off Georgetown Road in Cecil Township, Washington County. The District’s new transportation center consists of approximately eight acres of land and a 15,000-square-foot building. 58
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During the past school year, interior and exterior improvements to the site were completed, and in early August, the District’s Transportation Department began moving to the new location. By August 19, the new center was ready to receive the District’s fleet, including 14 recently purchased new school buses. Owned by Turnberry Properties, L.P. of McMurray, Pennsylvania, the new facility provides adequate parking for the District’s fleet of student transportation vehicles and the personal vehicles of the District’s transportation employees while working, as well as transportation repair facilities and office space. n
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Kindergarten News
Parents are requested to register their kindergartenaged children at the elementary school located in their attendance area. All children five years of age on or before September 1, 2011, are eligible to register. School Area Date Baker......................................................................................................... Tuesday, February 22 Eisenhower.......................................................................................... Wednesday, February 23 Streams................................................................................................... Thursday, February 24 Times for all........................................................................................... 9-11 a.m., noon-2 p.m. A special evening session for all elementary schools will be held on Wednesday, March 2, 6-8 p.m. at the School District Central Office. It is not necessary that the student accompany the parent to registration.
Readiness Evaluation
School personnel are available to screen children whose parents wish additional help in making a decision on entrance into kindergarten. Individual dates will be established during registration. Admission Periods
The admission period for kindergarten is limited to the first two weeks of the school year unless the child’s family transfers to Upper St. Clair from another school district where the child was enrolled in a kindergarten program. Questions regarding kindergarten readiness should be directed to Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Personnel, at 412-833-1600, extension 2214. School Health Immunization Regulations
The Allegheny County Health Department’s (ACHD) Board of Health has enacted the School Health Immunization Regulations for children in Allegheny County. Since the start of the 2009-10 school year, all students entering school for the first time at kindergarten must have the following immunizations completed prior to entering any public, private, or parochial school: • 4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 3 doses of polio • 1 dose of rubella
• 2 doses of measles • 2 doses of mumps • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 2 doses of varicella or written statement from physician/designee indicating month and year of disease or serologic proof of immunity
Since 1983, Allegheny County regulations have allowed provisional status only for students who transfer from another state. Students transferring from out of state may be enrolled provisionally provided there is evidence of having received at least one dose of each antigen and provided there is a plan to complete the required immunization within eight months. Families are encouraged to obtain the needed immunizations from their physicians. However, the ACHD does offer the required vaccines free of charge. To obtain information about clinic location and times, interested persons should contact the ACHD Infectious Diseases Program at 412-578-8060. Provisions for this regulation do not apply in cases where extenuating medical or religious factors are involved. If there is any reason why a child should not be fully immunized, parents must submit a physician’s certificate explaining the circumstances. Parents are also required to provide written documentation if they disapprove of immunizations for religious reasons. These documents will be accepted in lieu of a certificate of immunization. Registration Packets
Registration packets will be available at each elementary school beginning February 14, 2011. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration. Winter 2010
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Around the Township USC Teen Leads Cultural Camp for Youth
Julie Schuldt, a sophomore at Upper St. Clair High School, led “Julie’s Cultural Camp” during the last week of August for her International Baccalaureate Personal Project. Seven neighborhood girls, ages seven to eight, participated in the fiveday morning camp held in the Schuldt’s home. Participating in the camp were Emily Bleier, Olivia Fera, Gracie Lowden, Amanda Navin, Allison Schuldt, Sarah Strain, and Caroline Wright. Each of the five mornings focused on a country Julie is familiar with: Japan, Brazil, England, Germany, and China. Julie planned age-appropriate lessons on language, currency, geography, holidays, national dress, and music. Cultural snacks, activities, and crafts were also included. “The best part was the Berlin Wall,” said Emily Bleier. “We built it out of boxes and we all wanted to be on the West. We felt sorry for the people on the East. Then we destroyed it and we were all together again and we were happy.” “Lots of people in other countries drink tea,” observed Olivia Fera. Tea sampling included Chinese oolong, Japanese mugi(barley), and English breakfast tea. “I loved the Brazilian capoeira,” said Allison Schuldt, Julie’s younger sister, whose age inspired the age target of camp participants. “We made instruments and learned some martial arts steps that look like a dance.” Each day ended with a worksheet to assess what the girls had learned. The last question on the daily worksheets was “What do I have in common with children in the country we studied?” Though Julie spent hours explaining the differences between cultures, she wanted to make sure the girls kept in mind that children around the world are more similar than they are different. On the last day of camp, family members were invited to share in the cultural snacks and see displays of the camp’s teaching materials. One by one, girls wrote something they remembered on ia Fera , and Oliv , Sarah Strain p. Gracie Lowden ’s Cultural Cam lie Ju ina during learn about Ch
p
’s Cultural Cam
ials used in Julie
Teaching mater
Caroline Wright, Olivia Fera, and Sarah Strain build the Berlin Wall. Teacher Julie Schuldt supervises.
posters with country outlines. “I am amazed at the information Emily learned,” commented Mark Bleier about his daughter’s participation. “This was a great transition for back to school,” said Rachel Lowden, Gracie’s mother, whose professional experience is in educational leadership. “Julie is a mature and talented young lady. She has wonderful life experiences and a desire to spread her messages of global understanding.” Julie was born in Michigan and moved with her parents to Japan when she was one year old. She attended Japanese preschool and the American School in Japan until third grade. Julie traveled to Brazil with Children’s International Summer Villages (CISV) when she was 11 years old. Julie remarked, “We had recently moved to Pennsylvania and I couldn’t imagine what I would do with my summer. We heard about the CISV program and it sounded great. My mom studied in Brazil, so she was comfortable sending me there.” Julie’s next trip was with her grandparents to England in 2007 where they spent a week touring London. In 2008, Julie participated in a CISV Interchange with Germany. This past summer, Julie and 34 other Pittsburgh students spent 17 days in China and Hong Kong with the People to People Ambassador Programs. Julie’s parents, John and Robbie, both graduated from the Thunderbird School of International Management. They are delighted that their daughter shares their interest in other cultures. “For my IB Personal Project, I made a list of all the things I’m interested in and my experiences. Traveling abroad and working with children were the main themes. Once I decided on a camp format, I was challenged to fill in the gaps of my knowledge of country-specific information, so I did research that benefited me, too.” Julie charged a nominal fee to the campers for their participation, which covered supplies and snacks. Julie donated the remaining funds to People to People International. Julie will travel to Spain, France, and Italy next summer where she will gather plenty of new information to n. pa Ja ints out Tokyo, Julie Schuldt po share around the neighborhood. n Winter 2010
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The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair’s
Family Movie Night
On Thursday evening, September 2, 2010, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair hosted USC's first Family Movie Night on the Boyce Mayview Park's Multi Purpose fields. The weather was perfect and the film, "The Sandlot" was a winner. Over 300 residents attended and took advantage of a wonderful
was a huge success
opportunity to have a great time just before school started again! The Foundation was very proud to host this event and thanks the staff at the Community & Recreation Center for their assistance with planning and coordinating all of the details. We look forward to hosting more Family Movie Nights in the future!
Gregg, Ella & Bria
Zegarelli
& Dave Blough Ella, Ethan, Emily
Sharda, Raghu, N Ghimire & Mam ishma ta Chhetri rter, Marcus Hedy, Quincy, Ca airn & George Pitc
George, Amy & Georgie Garces David, Owen & Max Mandler, Michael & Jonathan Barsotti John & Terry Abbott
Marjan & Emma Toosi
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Brianna Mugri & Chelsa Johnston
Winter 2010
Gigi & Victoria Crowley
The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair’s “Live in Concert”! On September 20, 2010, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair presented "An Evening with Marvin Hamlisch," the first of many concert performances it plans to host at the Upper
The Michael Pedicin Quartet/ The Brubeck Project plays The Music of Dave Brubeck Friday, November 19, 2010 ~ 7:30 PM Upper St. Clair Theatre TICKETS ~ General $35 ~ Students $15
Friday, April 8, 2011 7:30 PM Upper St. Clair Theatre
St. Clair Theatre. Marvin Hamlisch, Principal Conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Pops entertained a delighted audience. Mr. Hamlisch brought in vocalist Mark McVey, who made his Broadway debut as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, to accompany him. The consummate performers thrilled the audience, and it provided the perfect kickoff for "Live in Concert”!
SPYRO GYRA
TICKETS for the Michael Pedicin Quartet/The Brubeck Project concert are available through ProArts Tickets www.ProArtsTickets.org or (412) 394-3353. Please check the Foundation’s website for more information on ticket sales for Spyro Gyra.
Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair Lecture Series The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is proud to announce the line-up for a very exciting lecture series! Lectures will be held in the theater at Boyce Middle School. Membership to the series is $35 to attend all lectures. For more information on future lectures, please check the foundation's website. www.mainstreetusc.com The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair depends upon the generousity of the community
NK to provide events like the Family Movie Night and the “Live in Concert” performances. THA U! YOU are the ones who make it possible for us to help make Upper St. Clair some place special. YO All donations are gratefully accepted and responsibly used. THANK YOU!
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF UPPER ST. CLAIR 2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
(412) 831-1107
FAX (412) 220-7780
mainstreetusc@gmail.com
Winter 2010
www.mainstreetusc.com
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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PRIME TIME Celebrates Silver
Lynn Dempsey, REALTOR®
USC Resident... Live Here & Sell Here! FREE Comparative Home Analysis!
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Smarter Live
A silver anniversary is always something special, but when it happens to a church ministry committed to the life enhancement of elderly individuals in our surrounding communities, there is an even greater cause for celebration. PRIME TIME Adult Care, an outreach ministry of Christ United Methodist Church, is celebrating that important anniversary this month. The idea that started 25 years ago was to provide respite for the busy and stressed 24-hour caregiver of an elderly individual with functional impairment or Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. An area was designated at the church and on November 4, 1985, Pat Evey, PRIME TIME’s first director, and her assistant opened the doors to provide this service three days a week for a few hours each day. In May 1986, PRIME TIME received state-licensing from the Pennsylvania State Department of Aging, the staff increased from two people to three, and the ministry has been growing ever since. Currently, PRIME TIME has 22 staff members in two separate program areas (a large environment and a smaller, more intimate environment) that operate five
"Enjoying an afternoon of music"
days a week, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. with a nurse on staff each day. Life-enhancing stimulation for the clients is emphasized and an activity leader provides mental and physical stimulation throughout each day. Programs, including pet therapy, inter-generational activities with children, and music provided by entertainers, are important to the overall plan. Adult day care does not stop the course of Alzheimer’s disease, but may prolong the length of time a family member may remain at home before having to be admitted to an expensive, long-term 24-hour care facility. n For more information, contact director Mary Ann Weber at 412-835-6661.
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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your homeowner’s coverage The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer lines. There is no way to predict when the next sanitary sewer backup will occur. And while only a handful of our residents experience a significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating if a resident is not insured for losses—losses that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Sewer Backup Insurance Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences. Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage. Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271.
Pyramid of Conservation Vasso Paliouras, ProEnergy, Owner Minnesota Power has developed the concept of the energy efficiency pyramid known as the “Pyramid of Conservation.” It’s an interesting look at the home energy to-do list. Like the food pyramid, the basic, first steps that should be applied, like an energy audit, are at the bottom. As you work your way up to the “sweets,” the high-cost, slower return on investment items are listed. They are a great added touch “once you’ve eaten your fruits and vegetables” as stated by the folks at Energy Circle.
How far up the pyramid are you planning to take your projects? Make sure to first understand your home, then work your way up. n
ProEnergy Consultants (www.proenergyconsultants.com), a national home energy auditing company in the Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, can be reached at 412-606-4314 or vpaliouras@proenergyconsultants.com. See ad on this page. Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Prof iles
on People with a USC Connection
Know of a resident to profile?
Send information to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday @ uscsd.k12.pa.us Kiersten Luther, University of Virginia and USCHS graduate, has been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Student Program scholarship to Germany from the U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board to teach English as a foreign language. Luther is one of over 1500 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad for the 2010-2011 academic year through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Kiersten will return to the University of Virginia next fall to complete her master’s degree. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. The program operates in over 155 countries worldwide. Aurelia’s Coffee and Cafe established its place of business in November 2009. Inspired by the eclectic energy of the South Hills and situated just off Lesnett Road between Upper St. Clair and Bridgeville, Aurelia’s Cafe has quickly become a suburban meeting destination for young professionals, families, students, and seniors. Its carefully prepared yet casual cuisine and suburban ambiance have earned it a stream of loyal fans. Aurelia’s is owned and operated by Upper St. Clair’s Cain family and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday through Saturday and open for brunch on Sunday. Visit aurealiascafe.com, aureliascafe.blogspot.com, Facebook and Twitter.com/aureliascafe.
Instructors Kaitlynn Kopach (left) and Carly Hogya (right), both 2007 USCHS graduates, with owner Brianna Lewis at the grand opening of Ultimate Dance Complex
Opened this summer, Ultimate Dance Complex by Brianna Lewis, located on Valleybrook Road in McMurray, offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hiphop, and acro. A 2009 graduate of Point Park University and 2006 USCHS grad, Brianna has won numerous awards and has a solid background as a performer, instructor, and choreographer. For more information on UDC, visit www.ultimatedancecomplex.com.
Dawn and Patrick Putorti are proud to announce that their daughter, Luciana Francesca Putorti, was born on July 25 at 12:09 p.m. Her sisters, Isabella and Sofia, and brother, Ian, were extremely excited to welcome her to their family! Bill Heddaeus, DMD, recently graduated from dental school and is very excited to join Cappetta Dentistry, a dental practice located at 3903 Clairton Boulevard in nearby Brentwood. Bill, USCHS class of 2002, earned his DMD from Case Western School of Dental Medicine and his BA from Miami University of Ohio. While at USC, Bill was a member of the National Honor Society and obtained high honor roll. He was a three-year varsity letterman in lacrosse, serving as a captain his senior year, and a two-year varsity letterman in soccer. During August 2008, Bill traveled to Guatemala to provide free fillings and extractions to a severely impoverished community. He also volunteered at the Greater Cleveland Free Dental Clinic, where he performed dental services for the working poor who were without dental insurance. Cappetta Dentistry was founded by USC resident Frank Cappetta, DDS.
Happenings! Holiday Home Tour If Christmas is a favorite holiday, get into the spirit by touring five beautiful Peters Township homes festively decorated for the season to benefit The Watchful Shepherd. Sponsored by Keller Williams Realty, the tour is Sunday, December 5, 1 to 5 p.m. A brightly colored package will be displayed in front of each home to indicate it is on tour. All proceeds benefit The Watchful Shepherd, a child abuse prevention program founded in 1993 by Joseph Femiani. This program provides families and child victims with wristbands that can activate an electronic device, which in turn activates a computer monitoring system at its 66
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
National Response Center on a 24-houra-day basis. Tickets for the home tour are available for $25 by calling 724-941-3339. For more information about The Watchful Shepherd program or a complete list of the stores in the area where tickets can be purchased, visit www.watchful.org. Mothers & More Searching for support from other moms? Need some time away for you? Looking for activities for kids? Check out Mothers & More, South Hills, a wonderful support group. For more information, call 412-774-2138 or visit http://mandm164.tripod.com. Winter 2010
WOMEN of Southwestern PA, a 501(c)(3) organization, is sponsoring its fourth annual Symphony of Food–Chefs’ Showcase Dinner on Friday, January 28, to fund its philanthropic mission of helping women and children in need. The event will be held at the Bella Sera Event Venue, 414 Morganza Road in Canonsburg. Doors open at 6 p.m. and a six-course, sit-down dinner will be presented by six wellknown, local chefs, each with a litany of fine-dining successes. A Chinese auction is part of the evening. Tickets are $75 (non-refundable donation). Reservations are required. Call 724-941-3339. For more information, visit www.womenofswpa.org.
Teen Holds Ice Cream Extravaganza for Little Sister Paige Gillen
Half-asleep one August morning, I pressed the food processor’s pulse button repeatedly as nine pounds of Oreos were pulverized into crumbs. I piled the dirt-black Oreos into plastic bags and set them next to a jar filled with five hundred maraschino cherries. To accompany the Oreos and cherries sat two gallons of sprinkles, 24 bottles of whipped cream, and enough chocolate syrup to satisfy an elementary school. Most teens’ summer mornings don’t involve mass quantities of ice cream toppings or waking up anywhere before 9 o’clock. However, this summer I spent multiple mornings preparing for a fundraiser where ice cream was the key ingredient—The Incredible Ice Cream Extravaganza for Mitochondrial Disease. My little sister, Merritt Joy Gillen, has a rare Mitochondrial Disease that prevents her cells from properly producing energy. This degenerative disease often results in weak muscle tone, poor heart condition, and the inability to eat. Doctors predicted my sister would live only until age two, but on August 26 of this year Merritt turned nine! Planning and organizing a large scale fundraiser was a foreign idea to this high school junior whose typical weekend planning involves football games and bonfires. It was no easy feat. Fortunately, I had a great team of volunteers. Over 20 teenagers helped me to blow up balloons, collect money at the front door, and run games like Whipped Cream Madness and the Ice Cream Fling. I learned leadership skills
Enjoying an ice cream game
by assigning jobs and showing my volunteers how Merritt and Paige Gillen I wanted things done. Along with my teen helpers, I was lucky to have support of Carmine Bellini, the owner of Über Scoops and Candy. Über Scoops is a cheerful ice cream store located next to the Uncommon Market where I have spent the past two summers working. Seeking some ice cream expertise, I contacted my boss. Mr. Bellini went out of his way to not only donate ice cream, but to show my mom and me the ropes of Restaurant Depot. Our trip downtown to Restaurant Depot was an adventure itself. I was awestruck by the two-story high shelves loaded with every ice cream topping imaginable and a freezer section so big that winter jackets are provided for customers. As my mom and I rushed our 27 gallons of ice cream back to the South Hills, my anticipation about the event grew. The day of the fundraiser was hectic and fun. Just as the volunteers finished setting balloons on all the tables, three guests eagerly entered the room. The party had begun. For the next three hours, a mix of teenagers, family friends, and relatives filtered in and out of the doors. Guests made gigantic sundaes, played silly ice cream games, and participated in the silent auction. Some guests went back for seconds. The turnout was a great success and the event raised over $7000. There was more to The Incredible Ice Cream Extravaganza for Mitochondria Disease than just raising money and eating ice cream. The fundraiser celebrated and honored my sister. Merritt and I may not have your typical sister relationship. I always imagined teaching my little sister how to do a cartwheel, bake cookies, and the importance of cute shoes. But with Merritt, I have gained so much more. She has taught me to not take the little things in life for granted and to cherish every moment that God has given me. Nothing is more special than holding her little hand. n
For more information about Mitochondrial Disease or to make a donation, visit www.umdf.org or contact Paige Gillen at paige27g@gmail.com. Winter 2010
Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS
Let my experience work for you.
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Denis Theatre Foundation’s Ultimate Coming Attraction Campaign MJ Meenen, DTF Board Member The Denis Theatre Foundation announced exciting news this past September. It entered into a purchase agreement to buy the theatre and to continue the nonprofit’s mission to purchase, renovate, and restore the Denis as a theater and community cultural center. The Denis Theatre, in neighboring Mt. Lebanon, will be a venue for independent, foreign language, and documentary films and assorted educational, artistic, and social service programming including lectures, poetry readings, and live performances. The board of directors, with the help of fundraising counsel A.L. Brourman Inc. and over 450 individual donors, made a huge leap towards fulfilling that dream by raising enough money to enter into a sales agreement. Many Upper St. Clair residents have been instrumental in the “Ultimate Coming Attraction Campaign” by making generous financial contributions, hosting cultivation events, and participating in a photo shoot that took place in the theater. Volunteers and key individuals include Larry and Rebecca Stern, Ched and Rachel Mertz, and the USC Rotary Club that meets at the Grand Residence. The Denis was known to most South Hills residents as being a destination of choice for film lovers. Opened in 1938, the Washington Road landmark showed classic and contemporary movies, and is remembered nostalgically by many as a place for first dates and family outings. Longtime residents reminisce about kids gathering on Saturday mornings, in their pj’s, to watch cartoons on a big screen. We’ve even heard stories of teenagers managing to find a convenient back exit to meet their friends. In the late 1980s, the Denis continued to have a strong audience featuring independent films, foreign films, and documentaries. If you lived in Pittsburgh’s South Hills, going to the Denis to see The Thin Blue Line or Life is Beautiful was much more convenient than driving to Regent Square or Squirrel Hill. Almost seven years ago (in 2004), the theater went dark, following years of disrepair. Film fans were shocked and disappointed when the news was abruptly announced in the papers. The theater’s departure left, quite literally, a “hole” in the business district. A few years later, the Denis was sold to D and Neeta Raja, who are the current owners. In 2008, a group of concerned citizen volunteers launched a nonprofit, whose purpose is to restore the theater as a film venue and cultural center.
“The Ultimate Coming Attraction,” a capital campaign, was launched in 2009 to bring back the Denis. The vision for the future includes Phase I (open one screening room, the Encore, in 2012). Phase II will include two additional movie screens, a café area, educational meeting rooms, and spaces for artistic and social service programming. Once the renovations are complete, the Denis will feature thought-provoking movies that are not shown anywhere else in the South Hills. It will also be a place for the community to gather for educational and artistic programming. The vision is expansive, to allow for creative use during day time hours in addition to traditional film viewing hours. A combination of earned and unearned revenue is the business model that will make the Denis a hopeful success, following the lead of many other intimate, neighborhood theaters in Boston, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. The Denis entrance and foyer will provide opportunities for exhibitions from local and emerging artists. A small stage will be used for youth artists, soloists, jazz performances, and lectures. The restored Denis will be able to host the Pittsburgh Filmmakers annual Pittsburgh Film Festival. Planned programs will supplement arts and extra curricular programs at local high schools, with classes and lectures on the art of filmmaking and digital arts. Diverse community partners such as SHIM (South Hills Interfaith Ministries) and the Autism Center have also expressed interest in collaborating with the Denis. The Denis Theatre board of directors is interested to expand upon these efforts and is inviting more residents from Upper St. Clair to become leaders, donors, and volunteers. n
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in publication since 1994. Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine USCad 10:57 AM Page 1 Email:3/10/08 usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us We've got you completely covered. Our 2200-space parking garage at the South Hills Village light rail station not only keeps your car out of the weather, it keeps you dry with a covered walkway from the garage to the T platform. All for just 2 dollars a day. For more information call customer service at
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To learn more about how you can help bring back this South Hills icon, go to www.denistheatre.org or follow them on Facebook @ Denis Theatre Foundation. Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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Advertiser Index
Winter 2010
The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Advertiser
Page
Advertiser
Page
Action Builders . .................................................................................... 31 Alliance Physical Therapy ..................................................................... 40 * Amel’s Restaurant .................................................................................. 60 * Angelo Associates, Inc. ......................................................................... 29 Baptist Homes Society .......................................................................... 38 BISTECCA - STEAKHOUSE - WINE BAR .............................................. .60 * Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ................................................. 68 Brookside Lumber Company ................................................................. 23 Café Georgio.......................................................................................... 60 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................. 58 Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior . ........................... 69 Chatham University ............................................................................... 13 * Clark Renovation, Inc............................................................................. 13 * Coffey Contracting Company ................................................................ 58 * Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate . ...............Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria .....................Back inside cover * Coldwell Banker–USC, South Hills Offices .......................................... .72 Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey . ......................................................... 64 Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park...................... .64 Concordia of the South Hills.................................................................. 40 Country Meadows Retirement Communities .....................................…32 Crandall, Steven R., D.M.D..................................................................... 57 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs............................................................................ 59 Design Image Salon, Joe Ruffalo . ......................................................... 35 * Friendship Village of South Hills . ......................................................... 41 * Hefren-Tillotson, Inc............................................................................... 37 Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................... 59 Howard Hanna–Bob Ellison .................................................................. 68 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley . ............................................................ 23 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 67 JAB Jewelry Designs . ........................................................................... 55 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................... 34 Kletz Contracting, Inc. ........................................................................... 65
Learning Express Toys .......................................................................... 47 Louis Anthony Jewelers ...............................................Front cover, 10, 11 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ...................................................................... 35 McMahon Financial, LLC ...................................................................... 27 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy .................................... 69 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 17 Orthodontics By Dr. Reitz & Dr. Troy . .................................................... 33 Paulin, Paulette, DMD ........................................................................... 36 Pediatric Alliance, P.C. .......................................................................... 33 Pediatric Dentistry South . ..................................................................... 33 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 34 * Pinebridge Commons Associates . ........................................................ 34 Pittsburgh Audiology ............................................................................ 47 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company . ........................................................ 51 Plastic Surgical Associates of Pittsburgh .............................................. 37 Port Authority Services . ........................................................................ 69 Premier Home Design Center .................................................................. 5 ProEnergy Consultants . ........................................................................ 65 Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South ........................................... 5 RADIANCE–A Private Outpatient Surgery Center, LLC............................. 2 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors . ............................................................ 7 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 60 South Hills Endoscopy Center . .....................................Front inside cover South Hills OBGYN, Drs. Rankin & Warner, MC, FACOG ...................... 39 * St. Clair Hospital ............................................................................... 1, 71 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy . ................................................... 34 The Hand Center of Pittsburgh .............................................................. 31 Urgent Care Center, The Washington Hospital . ....................................... 7 * Valley Brook Family Dental–Joseph L. Gurecka, DMD .......................... 29 * Wellington Real Estate–Rebecca Thomas Lutz & Patty Thomas ............ 30 Yoga Innovations, LLC .......................................................................... 40 Zegarelli Law Group .............................................................................. 67
Classifieds
What They Said Each issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY provides widespread, superb coverage of the many positive things that our USC youth do for our community, our city, and our world. Fantastic photos and diverse articles highlight the positive achievements that our young residents make in their academic and athletic pursuits, their volunteer work, and their life experiences. I look forward to each outstanding issue of TODAY as it truly depicts our community and makes me proud to live in Upper St Clair. —Edyce Rizzi
To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Upcoming guides for the Spring 2011 issue include Celebration, Dining, and Home Improvement. Ad space reservation is January 4, 2011. 70
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 32 issues.
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A major investment in advanced surgical suites. And in you. Each year 11,000 surgical procedures are performed at St. Clair Hospital. And the demand is growing. To meet our patients’ needs, we’ve added three new, spacious, state-of–the-art surgical suites. Each is equipped with the latest integrated technologies that give surgical teams immediate access to patients’ medical records and images. Designed for optimal efficiency, surgical times are reduced, putting patients on a faster road to recovery. At St. Clair Hospital, we’re providing our patients and physicians with the best environment for the most advanced surgeries of today and tomorrow. 1000 BOWER HILL ROAD
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Winter 2010
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
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C oldwell B anker Hope Bassichis
Janice Caputo
Eleanor Carpenter
Marie Carpenter
Jay Clemens
Barbara Cusick
Lynn Dempsey
Joanne Fibbi
Bonnie Frear
Dal Goldstein
Joan Hirsch
Judy Hlister
Elaine Krelis
Pete Krelis
Carol Marks
Michael Myers
Pat Paslowski
Ann Pesci
Toni Petrucci
Tulla Rakoczy
Stacy Romanias
Jim Walsh
Kathy Sekeras
Sandy Wiedt
South Hills/USC Office
Barbara Boyle, Manager
1699 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-833-5405 72
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2010
Real estate seRvices
Bonnie Byrnes
Nancy Beaulieu
Norma Bishop
Noel Bliman
Marcia Briner
Anita Crago
Janine Dillon
Kathy Enick
John Geisler
Genie Gooding
Janine Guthrie
Leigh Harkreader
Nancy Heffernan
Sydnie Jones
Sue Kelso
Kathi Kernan
Jane Krauth
Maria & Joe Lane
Julie Leslie
Joyce Lewis-McDonough
Arlene Murray
Mary Torchia
Carmela Viviano
Mary Ann Wellener
David Bruckner, Manager
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS LOCAL TRADITIONS Rt. 19 South/Galleria Office
1539 Washington Rd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412-344-0500 ©2010 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.
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COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!
Beautiful sprawling estate! Secluded on gorgeous 2.8 acres with mature trees in Westminster Manor. Designed with grace and elegance. $1,195,000 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405
Own a piece of history! 100+ years Gilfillan homestead in mint condition. Located on spectacular 2.3 exquisite acres! Original woodwork, 5 bdrms, 3 covered porches! $650,000 Leigh Harkreader 412-344-0500
Beautiful & newer 5 bdrm, 4.5 bath colonial! This two-story has large center island kitchen with granite, family room, 1st floor laundry, 3rd floor study, deck and more! $599,000 Janet Caputo 412-344-0500
Situated in the heart of Deerfield Manor, one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in USC! Within walking distance to Boyce Middle School. $572,000 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405
Wow! Fabulous, over 2 story colonial! Open floor plan, granite, stainless kitchen, lots of windows. 4 bdrms, 2.5 baths, familyroom, den, gameroom, 3 car garge! $420,000 Leigh Harkreader 412-344-0500
Fabulous home on 1.23 acre cul-de-sac. Wooded setting! Spacious 5 bdrm, 3.5 baths, family room, fireplace, den, game room, hdwd floors throughout! $399,900 Maria & Joe Lane 412-344-0500
Quality home located in Deerfield Manor. Two-story with spacious rooms and private wooded backyard. Move-in condition! $315,000 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405
Located in the heart of Upper St. Clair. This 2 story classic colonial has been completely remodeled and has wonderful curb appeal. $298,900 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405
Location, location, location! Set in the heart of USC. Within walking distance of USCHS, library, municipal building and family restaurants. $289,900 Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405
Charming colonial that has large eat-inkitchen with adjacent FR, log burning fireplace. French doors from kitchen open to patio and landscaped yard. $289,900 Pat Paslowski 412-833-5405
Beautifully maintained end-unit with quality upgrades. Newer windows, roof, bath, kitchen, sunroom. 4 seasons room, gazebo, hot tub, no steps! $249,900 Allyson Fritz & Sandy Pirosko Group 724-942-1200
Enjoy one floor living in one of USC’s most desirable neighborhoods. Cherrywood kitchen cabinets, breakfast nook. $245,500 Jay Clemens 412-833-5405
Absolutely impeccable! Updated 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home. Features family room, fireplace, gorgeous covered deck overlooks lush yard. A real beauty! $224,900 Kathi Kernan 412-344-0500
Beautiful! Newer carpet, ceramic tile floors, painted throughout. Newer stainless steel range/refrigerator/dishwasher. Close to shopping and 79. $156,900 Hope Bassichis 412-833-5405
One-level living on a beautiful level lot! Living room, fireplace, hdwd flrs, equipped kitchen, three bedrooms, game room, heated workshop, covered porch! $155,000 Nancy Heffernan 412-344-0500
Sharp townhouse with balcony in great community! Pool, tennis court and top-rated Upper St Clair schools! $149,900 Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405
©2010 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.