Winter 2020 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY by UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine

Winter 2020

Attorney John Biedrzycki, Steel City Lawyer

Residential Guide www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home

The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

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Winter 2020

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Volume 26

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Issue 4

www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home • www.15241.TODAY •

Features & Around the Township

Russell Rauch—USC’s “Take a Number” Man

14 36

Coach's Corner— Building Boys to Men… The Sound of Music

Father David Blessed His Family…

Love at First Flight

Historical Society Receives Grant for Springhouse Repair

Green Space Sees More Visitors 40

Aspirations…

School District

Hello to Friends of Eisenhower Elementary

Marching Band Honors Veterans, Volunteers, First Responders, and Frontline Workers

Surveying Students About COVID-19 54

Adapting…

usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Township

From the Library Director’s Desk

Falling Forward with the Rec Department

National Flood Insurance Programs

Winter Storm Emergencies

Guides/ Directories

22 Giving 29 School District Information 47 Pinebridge Commons 49 Township Information 70 Life Planning 88 Advertiser Index Photo Ops

32 First Day of School 34 Parade Honors Dr. Claire Miller 61 Santa Claus is Coming to USC

Pawprints, a USC PTC Feature

Cover

The winter cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is sponsored by Attorney John Biedrzycki. Moving his law practice to a refurbished house on Boyce Road this fall, read pages 10–11 to learn more about John, his law practice, and the house. 77

Be Entertained

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

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STCLAIR.ORG

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

Spring 2021 edition deadlines: Articles—January 7 Advertising—January 11 Summer 2021 edition deadlines: Articles—March 11 Advertising—March 15 Website (s): www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home www.15241.today

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine 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 marks 26 years of our publication.

The 104 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. Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us @usctoday

Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager, Advertising Executive Sarah Beitler, Marketing Executive, Advertising Executive Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Alison Hess, Volunteer Student Interns Julia Roeschenthaler, Bria Zegarelli

Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Sarah Beitler, Kerry Turner, Dorothy Clark, and Alison Hess. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine. Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image, and aesthetic standards of the magazine. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the 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, call 412-833-1600, extension 2284. Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s official magazine, please send $12 check, payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues, with their name and address, including zip code, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA 15241. Add $10 to cover international mailing.

Board of School Directors Barbara L. Bolas, President Patrick A. Hewitt, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Jennifer L. Bowen Phillip J. Elias Dr. Daphna Gans Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2021 issue and will be published in March 2021. 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. Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Township Board of Commissioners Mark D. Christie, President, Ward 4 Daniel R. Paoly, Vice President, At Large Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Ward 1 Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Rex A. Waller, At Large

Angela B. Petersen

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District, grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute. The 104th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited.

Jennifer A. Schnore 6

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Dr. Tanya Banda, Daniel Barr, John Bower, Cindy Brophy, Rachel Carlson, Lauren Carmen, Michelle Coleman, Krissy Danburg, Lynn Dempsey, Lindsay Dill, Marjie Doughton, Paul Fox, Christopher George, Christian Gmiter, Sandy Goldstein, KellyJo Hinrichs, Wayne Herrod, Amy Kerman, Jay Lynch, Ron Morosky, Jim O’Brien, Jim Render, Julia Roeschenthaler (intern & YWG), Alicia Massinople-Scott, Gary Schafer, Debra Swift, Grant Thorton, USC Band Parents Association, Jay Walsh, and Bria Zegarelli (intern & YWG).

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Knepper Press 2251 Sweeney Drive, Clinton, PA 15026-1818 724-899-4274 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com

A Winter Note from the Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski

Dr. John T. Rozzo

What conjures up a more fitting winter evening than sipping a favorite hot beverage while cuddled in a warm, fuzzy blanket and reading a mystery novel or your favorite local magazine, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY? Welcome to this edition of TODAY, a magazine that shares news, information, and intriguing stories about our Township, written with Upper St. Clair residents in mind. Wrapping up 2020, we can all agree that this year has been challenging in many regards. Following protocols, we have spent many days, weeks, and months doing things a little differently to abide by local, regional, and national health and safety guidelines. We thank you for the ways you’ve reacted and noticeably helped others during this time. While no one can predict what lies ahead, we are encouraged that life will return to normal, and, just maybe, in a better way than before. The School District and the Township share their news and feature stories on pages 28–45 and 48–68, respectively. A four-page segment at the beginning of each section relays relevant information to help our residents learn more about our schools and local government. Feel free to keep these pages—that include contact phone numbers and email addresses—handy for your go-to source when you have questions we can answer. Among a number of stories that you’ll take pleasure in reading, this issue includes a Giving guide (pages 22–26) and a Life Planning guide (pages 70–75). Make sure, as you thumb through the magazine, to stop on these pages for a handful of great ideas and articles of interest from some of our advertisers. We’ll be back with our spring issue of TODAY this coming March. Until then, know that our Township and School District personnel continue to offer our residents the best services and education around. There are many reasons we each have chosen to call Upper St. Clair “home.” We are all proud to sport our black, white, and a touch of red, and hope to be able to share in our community pride together again soon. In closing, we wish you a mild winter; mild in the sense of personal peace, comfort, and kindness. May this season bring you the joy of family and friends. See you next year!

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us | @15241.today 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

800.325.3030 | LifeAtHastings.com

The House on Boyce Road Attorney John Biedrzycki

The refurbished Defender House, with the business van in the foreground

I am a firm believer that every decent lawyer should start his or her career working for a senior attorney who is not only a boss, but also a mentor. Very little of what is taught in law school relates to the interpersonal and business aspects of the profession. Thankfully, when I passed the bar exam in 2003, my uncle, David B. Cercone, and his business partner, Anthony Erlain, took me under their wings to begin my legal education. Their practice consisted of personal injury work, representing people hurt in a range of cases from car crashes to construction site injuries, as well as a robust criminal law practice representing some of the more notorious figures in Pittsburgh. My salary consisted of lunch five times a week, tons of experience working on cases, and I could keep half of whatever business I brought in. Needless to say, the first year I didn’t make very much money working for David and Anthony, other than adding about four inches to my waistline, as their “diet” lunch was fish sandwiches at Benkovitz in the Strip District. However, I was in court every single morning and worked injury cases each afternoon, taking in countless hours of invaluable experience. David and Anthony were more than law mentors, they were business and life mentors. They treated all of their clients with respect and compassion, even criminal clients with whom you would not want to be in the same room, let alone defend. Additionally, they showed me how they were equally as charitable as they were successful, donating time and money to a variety of causes. When the time came to propose to my wife, Beth, a Doctor of Pharmacy and Upper St. Clair graduate, David insisted on helping me pick out the ring and Anthony was a reader at our wedding mass at St. Louise. Beth and I spent many enjoyable weekends on David’s yacht, sailing Lake Erie. When our children, Max and Molly, were born, David and Anthony were among the first visitors. In 2006 when we bought our home in USC, they helped us with move-in day, all day. However, in this business, you’ve got to make it on your own if you’re going to make it at all. And thus, the time came for me to leave the nest, taking with me not only a lot of legal experience, but a philosophy for practicing law with civility, compassion, at times humility, and always with honesty. I started my own practice, at first working from home and shortly thereafter moving to rented office space on Upper St. Clair’s McMurray Road. I added commercial real estate and business work to the personal injury and criminal practice I’d developed. My focus now was not only on building my business, 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

but also on raising two very energetic and inquisitive children. Thankfully, my in-laws also lived in USC, which allowed me the opportunity to put in the time necessary to become further established, and afforded my wife the ability to advance her career in pharThe Biedrzyckis, left to right: macy, including obtaining Beth, Molly, Max, and John her board certification in geriatric pharmacy. As the years went by and with a lot of hard work and a good dose of luck, things began to fall into place. Beth and I spent the little leisure time we had watching Molly and Max play USC travel soccer, with Molly on a Beadling team and Max playing for Century. Somehow, I also found time to serve as president of the Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Rotary the year that organization initiated the USC Farmers’ Market in the south parking lot of Westminster Church. Along the way, I earned my FAA private pilot certificate and spent time flying around the area. It was a great stress reliever. The evening of August 8, 2018, I was texting with David about a high-profile case I was handling that was all over the local news. I told him that I was handling it the way I thought he would have, and only commenting to the media if it might help my client. He told me he’d seen a lot of the coverage and that I was doing an excellent job, which I found personally notable, since he was not quick to give a compliment. The next morning, I awakened to a 5:30 a.m. phone call from Anthony that David was in the ER at Passavant Hospital. It was a heart attack, and I needed to get there fast. David had already passed before the call, but Anthony wanted to tell me in person when I got there. Being the only family member present and the one most familiar with David’s affairs—as all of his siblings lived out of town and he never married, not to mention that at 57, he’d not gotten around to writing his will—the hours, days, and months that followed were the most grim and challenging times of my life. As the months went by, I grew increasingly mentally worn out. One day, my paralegal, Jill, suggested we take a break and

Defender House prior to its makeover

Max, throwing the ball inbounds

order pizza. Ordering from Ardolino’s, I decided to jump in my car and drive down to pick it up to clear my head. I’d been casually checking out buildings along Boyce Road, looking for a place to buy instead of rent that would also increase my square footage. Having lived in USC for 14 years and driven Boyce Road countless times, I never noticed a red brick house across the street from Ardolino’s until the day I picked up that pizza. I noticed a “for sale” sign and called a realtor friend to learn more about it. Returning to my office, I skipped the pizza and quickly went to search USC’s zoning maps. Sure enough, the property was zoned “special business district.” Assembling a team, I purchased the house, applied and received zoning approval for my office, and completely refurbished it inside and out, using as many USC businesses as possible for the renovations and site work. I’m a firm believer in helping local businesses, not just because I own one and serve as the vice president of the South Hills Chamber of Commerce, but because small businesses help to keep a community presentable, safer, and more convenient for its residents. Working closely with USC Township’s Community Development Department, along with a number of local contractors and some sweat equity of my own, I took the blighted house and converted it to a presentable office. The issue remaining was what to name the building. I have been operating under “The Steel City Lawyer,” mainly because my last name— Biedrzycki— leaves most people perplexed as how to pronounce it. My last name would not be suitable. I started thinking about names that complemented the word “house,” with the main idea that it was the “house of the Steel City Lawyer.” Going to my Facebook account, a memory photo popped up of Molly at the helm of David’s yacht, The Defender. I’d found what I was looking for: “Defender House” was named as a tribute to my uncle, which also expressed my career of defending all people’s rights. My business philosophy has always been to skip television or radio ads and instead use local sports, band, and school program books, advertising sponsorships of community projects, including the new Baker Elementary playground, and fundraiser dinners. Given that the majority of my clients are local, I think it’s proper to provide sponsorship support to local causes, not as a way of advertising my business, but to express my gratitude for that which I already have. If you live in a community where you also work, you not only represent yourself, but the image of the community, as well. That, in essence, is the point of Defender Lucy, a stellar addition to House—to help the image of the Defender House

Molly on the soccer field

continual improvement along USC’s Boyce Road corridor. Now that you’ve made it this far, I’m going to debunk some hysterical myths about Defender House that you may have seen on Nextdoor or Facebook. First, the brickwork on the front was not changed to conceal sinister activities. Factually, the front door was bricked up to make the rear entrance ADA compliant and cancel the need for a ramp in front, while providing a more private entrance for client confidentiality. It also affords a stairfree entry for personal injury clients who may need crutches or a wheelchair to maneuver. The window was bricked up to provide privacy for what will be a conference room. The multi-colored lighting is not indoor farming, but used to draw attention to the house that sits on the inside bend of the road so that passersby will notice the house. Once the office formally opens, the colored lights will not be used, except for special occasions. The original wood burning fireplace has been restored and brought to code and will grace one of the two large conference rooms. Defender House will contain not only my law office, but space has been afforded to the South Hills Chamber of Commerce and our very spoiled Goldendoodle, Lucy. Anecdotally, Lucy has been a star employee on occasion, interrupting court proceedings conducted via Zoom to interject her tension breaking cuteness to disarm opposing counsel and advise of the presence of squirrels in the yard. While 2020 has been a turbulent year, with many people working from home and companies of various sizes rethinking their downtown, urban office space, I am optimistic that the concept of having a suburban office in my own community was ahead of what will become the new normal for many. Despite the misconception that only “real” lawyers have their practices downtown, it is noteworthy that my practice is not limited to the South Hills, but includes litigation nationwide and internationally, all from within the township boundaries of USC. In order to serve personal injury and business clients who cannot easily make it into the office or might be a great distance away, a Mercedes Sprinter van, customized for client and business meetings, was purchased this fall. Planning for the long term, let alone next week, has been challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, I always chart a course to continue bringing the experience, reach, and stability of a larger downtown law firm to my practice in USC, while giving back to the community at every turn. n Attorney John Biedrzycki

For more information about Attorney John Biedrzycki (baa-jet-skee), visit www.thesteelcitylawyer.com. Consultations are available by calling 412-347-1295. Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Russell Rauch—USC’s “Take a Number” Man Wayne Herrod

“Dedicated,” “selfless,” “respected,” of them had the Township’s best interest in mind every step of the way. In the police department, I worked under various police chiefs, “intelligent”—all words that aptly describe including John Kelly, Ron Pardini, Doug Burkholder, and Jon Russell (Russ) Rauch. Dedicated: Russ began with the Upper Wharton. They all have been great to work with! Chief Kelly always St. Clair Police Department (USCPD) in said that dispatchers are the police officer’s invisible partner. Under Chief Pardini, the department began computerizing its July 1976. Selfless: Russ joined the Upper St. Clair records, and I was involved in the implementation of the software Volunteer Fire Department in December while continuing to work as a dispatcher. One day while working in the dispatch center, Chief Pardini and Deputy Chief Burkholder 1976. Intelligent: Russ is one of the most knowledgeable IT came to meet with me. My first thought was, “Uh, oh. What did I do wrong?” Instead of relaying a concern, people in the USC Police Department… they asked me to serve as the department’s anywhere, really. His work has been first-ever technical services coordinator. I invaluable to the growth and daily operaimmediately responded “Yes!” tions of the department. One of Chief Pardini’s little known traits Respected: Yes, Russ is respected by was his care and concern for his employees. everyone in the Township. His protective manner shielded his employNow that I’ve introduced Russ through ees from the politics that are sometimes four chosen words, come meet Russ, an inherent with local government. unassuming, low key, soft spoken person Chief Burkholder and I worked together on every account. But, his role in the for a long time, both when he was deputy Township speaks volumes. and as chief. He has a great sense of humor, Russ grew up in Upper St. Clair and rather dry. He would say, “Russ, you can’t graduated from USCHS in 1970. He was retire before I do because I don’t want to find hired as a dispatcher for the USCPD in your replacement. No matter what you’re July 1976, and then also joined the USC asked to do, it gets done.” VFD in December 1976. He remains an Chief Wharton brings his expertise to invaluable part of both organizations the department, and has been eliminating today. In 1991, the police department mounds of paper and operating more effiinstituted computerized records and a Russell Rauch ciently using technological advancements. new position was created for a techniIn this regard, there have been a lot of recent cal service coordinator for which Russ changes, and I really enjoy creating elecinterviewed and was hired. The position, tronic versions of how to do things. which included supervising the records Russ recalled a number of major management software and supervising incidents through the years in which he the dispatch center, grew into responsiwas involved: bilities that included additional computer One of the first calls I remember receivprograms and systems the department ing was from a female, reporting that her began to use. Russ also managed the ex-boyfriend was attempting to break into department’s In Car Video System. For her house. On the call, I could hear him the USC VFD, Russ has served in many pounding on the door and she yelled that line officer positions and various adminhe is in the house and has a gun. When the istrative positions throughout his tenure. police arrived, he ran out the rear of the Russ has been married to his wife, house into a wooded area. The officers found Nancy, for 29 years, and they have one him hiding in a shed a few streets away. The daughter, Andrea. Russ and Nancy met gun wasn’t found that night. Thirty years while Russ was teaching fire prevention at later, a resident who was doing yardwork the YMCA Nursery School where Nancy around his house discovered a gun that apwas teaching. peared to have been there for many years. It Russ shared the following about the was the house where the assailant was found Township and the police department: years before, and, in fact, it was the missing In my tenure at Upper St. Clair, I have gun. Ironically, the officer who handled the worked for four different Township manag“found gun” call was the same officer who ers: Jim Parks, Mike Bova, Doug Watkins, answered the break-in call 30 years before. and Matt Serakowski. Each of them brought different leadership styles to the job, but all Left to right: Nancy, Andrea, and Russ Rauch 12

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Winter 2020

USC Township Manager Matt Serakowski: I’ve known Russ for 27 years, and I connected with him very early on in my career at USC. We both served as volunteer firefighters. I quickly learned that if you needed things taken care of, no matter how large or small, Russ is the “jack-of-all-trades” around the organization who gets it done. Additionally, his oversight of the dispatch center has assured continued smooth operations during any and all major events in the Township. “Reliable,” “conscientious,” “trustworthy,” “team player,” and “friend” are words I’d use to describe Russ Rauch.

Former USC Chief of Police and current Township Commissioner Ron Pardini: Russ is a dedicated public

servant. He is not only an IT genius in handling the technical requirements of the department, but he seems to know something about everything! Russ is unselfish and generous with his time, always willing to help others. He is cooperative, supportive, and respected by everyone with whom he comes in contact. Police Chief Jonathan Wharton: I would need more than a Harrison McMinn, age three, donned a youth fireman suit and sat page if I shared everything that Russ Rauch has done for the police on the back of a firetruck with Russ during a visit to USC’s main department and this community! Russ was hired well before my fire station this past summer. Harrison’s father and mother, Bryan hire as a police officer. All three former chiefs had an admiration for and Missy, both went through the fire prevention course when they Russ (as I do); he is a true asset to the department. Russ is known were in grade school at USC. as the “go-to-guy,” and is so relied upon that we have half-jokingly Other incidents of significance were: displayed a “take-a-number” dispenser on his desk. When some• The 1977 deep freeze. Temperature near zero for over thing is needed, especially involving communications, electronics, a month severely impacted the Township’s salt supply, or computers, Russ is the person who we go to first. creating safety issues for the residents. Russ’ dedication to his job is unmatched. He not only takes on • Many severe rainstorms, creating flooding. all the duties of his role, but goes beyond. He lends his personal time • The school bus drivers and Public Works Department to ensure things run smoothly. His knowledge and opinions help personnel strikes. guide me in making sound decisions for the technical challenges of • And now, protests, which are creating many new the police department, with which current law enforcement agenchallenges. cies are faced. Assistant Township Manager Mark Mansfield: Russ’ I asked Russ his reasons for joining the USC VFD. He said, extensive knowledge of emergency communications and the technol“My father was a volunteer firefighter for many years. So, growing ogy therein, as well as his innovation and willingness to do what up, I saw firsthand what it looked like is necessary to better the cause, makes to volunteer in this capacity. It’s a huge him an invaluable asset to the Township commitment and it takes a willingness of Upper St. Clair. to change and abruptly cancel personal When asked about his longstandplans at a moment’s notice. You can’t ing career with the Township, Russ schedule emergencies,” he said. humbly shared, “Through the years, One of the most rewarding experiI’ve had the pleasure of working with ences for Russ has been teaching fire many Township employees from variprevention, mainly to kids, but also to ous departments. The best kept secret adults. Doing a quick calculation, Russ that makes Upper St. Clair the great estimates that he’s taught fire prevencommunity it is are the employees who tion to more than 50,000 people in one take pride in helping our community capacity or another. “I’m now teachbe the best it can be.” ing the children of some of the kids I Reading this article, you now retaught many years ago, and possibly alize that Russ has been one of the will be teaching their grandkids, too,” Township’s best kept secrets for many, said Russ. many years. But not anymore! We formally acknowledge that Russell Rauch After my discussions with Russ, it is one of those employees who unselfwas quite noticeable to see his imporishly contributes many times over to tance in the Township. The following the betterment and success of Upper comments from Township personnel St. Clair Township. We appreciate his speak volumes about Russ as a coservice and dedication! n worker and as a gentleman. Left to right: Police Chief Jon Wharton, Russ Rauch, Township Manager Matt Serakowski

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Coach’s Corner

Building Boys to Men and Building Homes Jim Render

It has been a number of years since I began writing about my marvelous former football players who’ve gone on to become highly successful people in a variety of professions. The word “marvelous” is used to describe them first as people, and then as high school football players. The professions they’ve chosen include doctors, lawyers, wealth management advisors, insurance specialists, National Football League players and executives, stadium builders, real estate developers, a popular Italian restaurant owner, and a bridge builder. They were great competitors in high school football games, and all of them still use the word “compete” to describe their approach to their occupations today. These guys are successful because, like in football, they really enjoy the competitive process, and working long hours is second nature. Coach Lou Holtz would tell his young coaches that they only had to work a half a day. Either midnight ’til noon or noon to midnight. As for the word “marvelous,” Frank Sinatra used the word often to describe the writers, directors, and musicians around him. Continuing with the theme of good players, good people, and hard workers, as well as very successful business entrepreneurs, I want to introduce you to brothers Matt and Jon Moritz. You may remember that I’ve previously written about the Hondru brothers (Scott, Mark, and Todd) the Lees (Conor and Sean), and, more recently, the Mascaro brothers (John, Jeffery, and Michael). Matt Moritz is one of the most interesting guys you’ll ever meet. He is a take-charge person and has been a mover and shaker since he was in grade school. For instance, he got his neighbor to sign him up for youth football when he was just eight years old. His not-so-happy parents finally gave the OK, provided he would also take piano lessons. He can still tickle the ivories today. Matt had a great career as a high school varsity football player. He was a three-year starter and contributed to all phases of the game. He will always be remembered for 14

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his efforts at Three Rivers Stadium during his junior year. We were in a tight WPIAL championship game versus Penn Trafford in 1997. With the score tied 21–21, Matt intercepted a pass and gave USC possession of the ball midway in the fourth quarter. Shortly thereafter, we had Matt lined up in the slot position on the right side and I called a reverse left, which he took to the house and gave us what proved to be the winning touchdown. The next week in a state semi-final game against Erie McDowell at old Pitt stadium, he returned a kickoff all the way back, which greatly factored in our victory and a berth in the state championship game. Thankfully, he did not have to take any piano lessons in November of that year. Following his high school graduation in 1999, Matt was recruited to play football and continue his education at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University. He became a starter his sophomore year as a defensive back. Knee injuries forced him to hang up his cleats, but he graduated on time as an economics and computer science major in 2003. Matt remarked to me that he did not like to go to class and often would not go. Instead, he would read the book and cram study just before a test. Upon graduation in 2003, his study habits worked so well that he received a scholarship to Duquesne University Law School. While back in Pittsburgh, several lifechanging events occurred in Matt’s life. First, he began working for Eddy Homes, owned by his dad, Dave. Matt began as a low-end laborer, where he spent much of his time on the business end of a broom, sweeping up after the construction workers left for the day. Dave was also trying to send a message that home building was a tough business and maybe he should give more attention to law school. Life-changing event number two did, in fact, occur in a law school classroom setting. Matt met a young lady who took good notes when he skipped classes, just like he did at Johns Hopkins. This arrangement worked so well that she began tutoring him… and then in Winter 2020

Left to right: Jon (USC #24), Dave, and Matt (USC #25) Moritz, circa 1998

2009, she married him. Today, Matt and Kristen, who has her own law firm, have three children, Mason (8), Hadley (6), and Luke(4). The other good news is that Matt also passed the bar exam in 2008. Jonathan (Jon) Moritz was also an excellent high school football player. Over the years, we only moved a couple of guys up to the JV/Varsity team and took them away from their freshman teammates. To do this, the young man must be mature and have advanced athletic ability for it to work. Jon, although of slight height and weight, was a guy we needed at the varsity level in 1998 when he was a freshman. By the time he was a junior and senior, he was an exciting running back, an excellent corner back, and always a threat as a kick returner. Following his 2001 graduation from USC, Jon continued his education at Penn State as an economics major. Jon remarked that his four years in Happy Valley were very enjoyable. After a 2005 graduation, Jon went to work with his cousin, Dan Ryan, in the homebuilding business. Jon said it was a great opportunity, as Dan would provide access to operational meetings in everything from sales to architecture. This experience became invaluable when Jon became part of growing the Eddy Homes business. Following his time with Dan Ryan, Jon went to Chicago and spent two years at DePaul University, where he earned his MBA. At this point, he combined his education with his practical experience and returned to Pittsburgh, where he joined his dad and his brother in the home construction business. Eddy Homes was founded in 1971 by Edward J. Moritz. It was a small business in the pre-computer age of operation. Dave joined his father’s (Edward) business following his graduation from Denison University in Ohio. He began running the business in 1983. Matt and Jon will both say that their dad had a great ability to build a fine home. He was known for building quality rather than quantity. It must also be noted that, until Matt and Jon joined him, Dave was doing everything from securing land, to marketing and sales,

to obtaining architects, and, of course, hiring and supervising construction crews. Matt and Jon’s mother, Jeanne, served as business manager, legal advisor, and bookkeeper. In 2010, when the housing market was on a down cycle, their planning meetings often consisted of the four of them. I have been told that there was even a heated argument or two. Today, Matt and Jon are joint CEOs and presidents of Eddy Homes. The wisdom and experience of their parents are always near and available. Founder Edward Moritz unfortunately passed away this past summer at the age of 94. Like all older establishments, a combination of technology and younger people who grew up with the advent of a computer-generated world has changed how Eddy Homes builds and conducts its business. In 2010, they were building one house at a time and planning for the next. In 2020, they are building 65 to 70 houses and are always looking for land to build the next development of 70 or more houses. Whereas Dave used to have his hand in everything (out of necessity), today Eddy Homes has 45 employees who focus on various phases of the total operation. Matt, who is the more intense of the brothers, concentrates on the company’s operations. He spends his time in the office and focuses on how to build. Matt is a grinder and deals with engineers, contractors, accountants, and lawyers. He insists on quality people doing quality work. Brother Jon is more the face of the company. His expertise is sales, floor plans, design packages, and getting the right plan for the property. Part of Jon’s job is to find land upon which housing developments can be built. He has some interesting stories about scouring farmland while looking for future projects. As he approached one farmhouse, the farmer met him with a shotgun to inquire what he was doing on his property. A similar incident involved a farmer potentially turning loose his dog to keep Jon away. Both stories had the same happy outcome. Jon turned on his charm, the men invited him into their homes, and both wound up selling Jon the land he sought. I knew he was quick, but in my opinion, these experiences take him to the next level! Speaking of Jon’s ability to sell himself, he found his wife by looking around his own office. There he found a salesperson whom he’d previously hired. Now Jon and Julia have a good life, which they share with their daughter, Eze, who is nearing one year old. In the Moritz family, Matt and Jon have a sister, Julie, who is the youngest of the three children. Not to be denied in the football world, Julie was the captain of the cheerleading squad during her days at Upper St. Clair High School. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband, Tom, and is the mother of Emma and Eliana. The progress made in the past ten years by Matt and Jon and their company, Eddy Homes, has been remarkable. In the near future, you will be able to go to their website (eddyhomes.com) and pick a community, reserve a lot, choose a floor plan, select structure options and a design package, and get a price in a matter of minutes. Eddy Homes is a leader in the competitive residential real estate market and their reputation as a homebuilder is continually moving upward. It is interesting to me how the two brothers sincerely complement one another. Each thinks the other is outstanding in his part of running the company. It reminded me of a quarterback who gives his receivers all the credit. Teamwork, competition, and winning! That is still how to build a team… or a house. In conclusion, my wife, Pam, and I did exactly what I just wrote about. We hired the Eddy Homes team and are now living in a beautiful, well built new home. Matt and Jon were winners on my team, and now I am a winner on theirs. And, as Frank would say, “Marvelous.” Winning is fun! n

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Left to right: Jon, Matt, Edward, and Dave Moritz, circa 2012

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Distracted & Drunk Driving

What You Need to Know to Be

Happy holidays to you and your family. This special time of year allows us to enjoy time with close friends and those we love. However, as these celebrations occur, it is critical that we drive responsibly. I would like to address with you two topics that could take your life or someone else’s: distracted driving and drunk driving.

WHAT IS DISTRACTED DRIVING? “Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention away from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system— anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.” —National Highway Traffic Safety Administration According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in the United States, there are nine people killed and more than one thousand crashes every day that report a distracted driver. THREE TYPES OF DISTRACTIONS Visual—taking your eyes off the road Manual—taking your hands off the wheel Cognitive—taking your mind off driving

STOP YOU NEED TO KNOW FACTS If you are on the highway traveling 55 mph and look at your phone for five seconds, your vehicle has travelled the entire length of a football field. Sending a text or checking a post on social media is not worth risking your life or anyone else’s. It can wait, or if something is urgent, pull over!

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THINK

DRUNK DRIVING Unfortunately, I see many DUI cases in my courtroom every month. These people who can walk in to see me are the lucky ones because DUI accidents can kill you or cause debilitating injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, nearly 30 people die every day because of a drunk driver. That is more than one person every hour! PLAN AHEAD & MAKE GOOD DECISIONS Before you leave your house, plan for how you will get back and forth safely. You will be thinking clearly at this time and get everyone in your party to agree on a plan. There is no excuse for driving under the influence, with readily available car services, like Lyft and Uber. Take and use this information to benefit you, your family, and our communities. We will prevent accidents by making one smart decision at a time. Save lives and keep our families and children safe by avoiding these dangerous behaviors! n

SAFE

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ACT Stop for a few moments and think about what actions you can take to be a safer driver. Your decisions could prevent a serious accident and save your life or someone else’s in our community. If you have a young driver at home or a child about to get his or her license, help them form good habits early by having family conversations about driving correctly.

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Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Father David Blessed His Family with Good Genes Jim O’Brien

A good man left us when Father Sam David died peacefully in his sleep on a cool Saturday morning, May 8, 1999, at his home in Upper St. Clair. It was 60 degrees that spring day. That home was on the border of Bridgeville, where, as a young man, Fr. David was a star high school basketball and baseball player, and a standout in volleyball, as well. He went on to be the leading scorer for three varsity seasons for the Pitt basketball team in the late ’40s that was coached by Doc Carlson, a charter member of the school’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Prior to becoming an arch priest at St. George Orthodox Church in Oakland (Dawson Street and the Boulevard of the Allies, across the bridge from Schenley Park), Fr. David was a chemistry teacher and basketball coach at Chartiers Valley High School. Fr. David shared some sports memorabilia in his files that showed his name on the 1949 training camp roster of the Baltimore Bullets of the National Association of Basketball, and he had a brief stay as an infielder with the St. Louis Browns organization in 1952 and 1953. But he never told anyone he played for the Bullets or the Browns because, in truth, he didn’t make it to the big dance in either sport. Suffice to say, he must have been a pretty good athlete just the same. Honesty was important to him. Fr. David shared some correspondence he’d kept in his files from Doc Carlson, where Carlson called him “a camel-driver” in two different letters because David was of Syrian blood. It was a less ethnic-sensitive time. It wouldn’t play too well today. Carlson wrote letters of recommendation for David, and he was obviously a big fan. “Doc Carlson was so demanding and difficult for me,” Fr. David disclosed to me one day when I was interviewing him for my book Glory Years, one of the early entries in my Pittsburgh Proud sports series. “When I was on the team, I hated him. As

I got older and matured and realized what I’d learned from that man, I grew to love him.” Fr. David’s son, Joey, would also have mixed feelings about his basketball coach at Pitt, Roy Chipman. I came upon Joey on the sidewalk outside of a church in Mt. Lebanon when a memorial service was being held for Chipman. Joey said to me, “If they ask me to say anything, I‘m just going to say, ‘I learned a lot from Coach Chipman.’ What do you think about that?” “That should cover it,” I said. Like father, like son. Sam David’s teammates at Pitt included two other good men, Lou “Bimbo” Cecconi, a former football coach at Pitt and a teacher and athletic administrator at Steel Valley High School in Munhall, and Oland “Do Do” Canterna, a basketball coach and athletic director at St. Vincent College in Latrobe. Each man was humane and considerate and they all shared a passion for people and for sports. Their families were a reflection of their old-fashioned values. They last played together in the 1949–50 season at the Pavilion, a basketball court deep in the bowels of Pitt Stadium. They were among certain Pitt alumni who were upset about Pitt’s plans to tear down the stadium. Canterna called Fr. David after I told him how ill his former teammate was. He was planning to visit him at his home within the week. I caught up with Canterna the evening of May 1 at the annual awards dinner of the Western Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. Canterna, Cecconi, and Fr. David were enshrined in earlier years. I tried to coordinate the visit to see Fr. David with Cecconi, but he was feeling poorly himself, facing surgery and a hospital stay the same week at Jefferson Medical Center. Cecconi talked to Canterna, but not to Fr. David. “You can’t wait,” said Cecconi, scolding himself when I called him to tell him of Fr. David’s passing. “It makes you think, ‘Oh University of Pittsburgh basketball team, including Sam David (front row, far right), Hall of Fame Coach Doc Carlson (middle row, far right), Oland Canterna (middle row, second from left), Lou boy, I never had the chance to say goodbye.’” Cecconi (back row, third from left)—Photo credit: University of Pittsburgh Doc Carlson, their college coach, often spoke about “blessed boomerangs,” and how good things come back to you when you send out good things to others. Dodo, Bimbo, and Fr. David learned much more than just figureeight offense basketball from Doc. Fr. David’s son, Joey, followed in his dad’s athletic footsteps, playing basketball at Pitt in the ’80s. I recommended him and USC football standout Doug Whaley to the Pitt coaches, who, interestingly, weren’t as sold on them as I was. Both became starters and, better yet, Academic All-America honorees, a testament to solid academic preparation at Upper St. Clair High School. Joey graduated from USC in 1982 and was a starting guard in Big East competition, a high caliber performer on and off the court. His parents had taught him the important things. “I’ve learned so much from my parents,” Joey told me, “and so did my three sons,” he said. 18

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Fr. Sam and Janet David shared their warm ways and smiles with everyone they met.—Photo credit: Jim O’Brien

bonus. I thank God for my life and the opportunity to do the things I wanted to do.” I asked him how his wife, Janet, was doing. She was a joyful woman who complemented him in every way. She was Janet Deep when they met, one of two girls and 13 boys in her family. “I thank my mother-in-law for having two girls and giving me one of them,” said Fr. David. “My bride keeps me going.” While Fr. David was sick, he was still seeing people from his church who called for him to do a wedding or a funeral, visit someone who was sick, or to bless their home. “They want to know if I can come out and do this or that,” said Fr. David. “I hate to say ‘no’ to anyone.” I remembered the time when my car went on the blink and I was stranded on USC’s Painters Run Road. Fr. David was my Good Samaritan; he picked me up along Cook School Road and drove me home. I remembered another time when he called with a question while I was doing public relations for the Pitt athletic department. He wanted to know why Joey, who had been named to the Big East All-Academic Team, wasn’t getting more publicity. I told him that the media wasn’t too interested in such things. “If Joey wants more publicity, he’ll have to punch somebody in a bar in Oakland,” I told Fr. David. Joey was a good kid, No news there. Fr. David would be proud to know that all three of his grandsons are working in the family business and helping people overcome their health problems. “They keep you motivated to improve,” said Linda Dudzinski, TODAY editor. Following her doctor’s orders for PT as a result of knee surgery, she said, “You feel comfortable in their care.” “They know what they’re doing,” said another friend, Ken Codeluppi, “and you look forward to going there for treatment. You feel better when you leave.” In our conversation in 1999, Fr. David spoke about his life and about Joey, and his other son, Sam David of Bethel Park, and his daughter, Daria Adams of McMurray, and his grandchildren. “I’ll go on as long as God lets me,” he said. “I can’t be negative in my last days. This has been a beautiful month. I wake up and see the flowers in bloom, and think, ‘I’m lucky.’ But, unless you leave this earth, you can’t go to heaven.” n

These days, Joey moonlights as the successful boys’ basketball coach at Mt. Lebanon High School. Coaching for the past 20 years, he has directed the team to the WPIAL championship game six times, winning the title in 2006, 2010, and 2019. The team once made it to the PIAA final, unfortunately losing in overtime to Chester, an eastern Pennsylvania team. Today, Joey is one of the most respected roundball coaches in the WPIAL. Joey’s three sons have followed his own career path in providing physical therapy, and have joined (or will soon join) David Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Center, which opened its doors in Mt. Lebanon in 1994. Jeremy has been there for three years, Justin for six months, and Jonathan will join the staff in the near future when he completes his doctoral studies. I visited Joey at his clinic on a Friday morning in April 1999 to have him help me with tendinitis in my left elbow. While there, I learned from Joey that his father, age 71, was in poor health; he was dying of congestive heart failure. When I returned home that morning, I immediately called Fr. David. I was reminded of his dark, liquid, always warm eyes, and his dark brows and dark tightly-curled hair. He said he’d lost 35 to 40 pounds from his former 185 pounds and felt poorly. “I have weak heart valves, and they’re leaking,” he said. “My doctors say there are no options remaining, not even a transplant. I’m told my heart’s too weak. That hits you right between the eyes.” Google Pittsburgh sports author Jim O’Brien to see all of Jim’s books. He and his family were long-time favorites of mine. “We’re His latest book, Looking Up Once Again, is a basketball memoir. not of the same faith,” my wife, Kathie, told me, “but Fr. David is someone I could talk to and share personal problems. I’d feel comfortable baring my soul to him.” As Fr. David spoke to me that day, his words were profound. He always had a calming effect on those with whom he engaged. As we spoke, I found myself grabbing some sheets of paper, almost instinctively, and writing down what he was saying. This may be the last time I will speak to him, I thought. “I enjoyed good health most of my life,” he said. “When I underwent heart bypass surgery in 1988, that was the first time I Dr. Joe David, owner of David was in the hospital. Things are rough for Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Center me right now, but I try to see each day as a

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Love at First Flight Jay Lynch

If you’re married or have a significant other, you likely connected with your soul mate in a traditional way. Maybe you were childhood friends or started your love affair at school, work, church, or through mutual friends. I relied on airport brinksmanship and bad manners. In 1986, I was a bachelor working in the Pittsburgh office of a nationally prominent management consulting firm. I was assigned to a few local companies, but most of my clients were in cities in the Midwest. Frequent business trips to client locations typically included specialists who were also “road warriors.” I became personal friends with many of them, as our business meetings frequently included evenings of client entertainment—bar-hopping, sporting events, and late evenings—followed by brutal day-long working sessions. But, we were young. On the Friday of a weeklong business trip, my last stop was in Detroit. Dan Williams, a well-respected specialist from the firm’s Houston office had flown to Detroit that morning to join me for a series of client meetings. Dan was brilliant at diagnosing and solving client problems, but so immersed in his job that he sometimes lost touch with personal life details. Our client meetings were very productive that day, and we headed to the Detroit airport to wait at the bar for our flights home. In the days before cell phones, Dan left the bar to use a pay phone to check in with his administrative assistant in Houston. When he returned to his bar stool, he was as white as a ghost. Jay: “What’s wrong?” Dan: “I called my office. My secretary says there’s a warrant for my arrest when I return to Houston.” Jay: “What for? What happened?” Dan: “It’s Sassy. The police think I killed Sassy.” Jay: “Who’s Sassy? Your wife? Girlfriend?” Dan: “No, no. Sassy’s a miniature poodle. My ex-wife’s dog. Jay: “You killed your ex-wife’s dog?” Dan: “No, no! When we separated, she moved to a condo that didn’t allow pets, so she left Sassy with me. The dog was 18 years old. It died peacefully this morning when I was getting ready to head to the airport. I was stunned. I didn’t want to miss my flight, so I temporarily put Sassy’s body in the freezer. I figured I’d tell my ex-wife what happened when I got home.” Jay: “Makes sense. Why are the Houston police involved?” Dan: “I forgot that my Mexican-American housekeeper was cleaning my house today. Apparently, Louisa was alarmed that the dog was missing, and searched for her. When she found Sassy in the freezer, she called my ex-wife in hysterics: ‘¡Madré de Dios! ¡El Señor Williams ha matado a Sassita!’ My ex called my office to confront me. When she learned I was out of town, she assumed I was fleeing justice and called the police, who forced my secretary to provide my flight details. They’ll be waiting for me at the gate when I arrive in Houston.” The bartender (likely a law school student) overheard our conversation and found it quite entertaining. She poured us free drinks as she good-naturedly interrogated Dan, while other patrons listened and giggled. The normally boring airport bar became an entertaining impromptu TV courtroom with Judge Judy (the bartender) exposing Dan’s alleged sinister motives. “What was it that made you hate Sassy? Was it jealousy? Did your ex-wife 20

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love Sassy more than you?” Dan’s aggressive denials made him seem guilty as sin, which made the scene even more entertaining. I ignored several boarding calls for my flight, as I was captivated by the pseudo-legal drama and festivity. That’s when I heard, “Last call for Northwest Airlines flight 324 to Pittsburgh, departing from gate 33.” I tossed back a beer and started running to the gate, dodging and weaving like OJ Simson, in the days before his true personality

Left to right: Mark, Katie, Jay, Ginny

was revealed. When I arrived at the gate, the jetway door was closed, but I could see that the plane was still on the ground. After theatrical pleadings, the gate agent took pity on me and notified the pilot that they had a “runner” (crew shorthand for an irresponsible, self-centered person willing to delay an entire planeload of passengers). The stewardess who opened the main hatch to let me board was clearly irritated by my behavior and my sweaty, disheveled appearance. She interrupted my attempted apology, pointed to the only open seat on the plane and sternly said, “Sit there. Now!” When the plane took off and headed to Pittsburgh, I enjoyed a moment of cathartic relief that my workweek was over. I had enjoyed a few giggles with (and at) Dan at the airport bar, and had successfully boarded a flight I deserved to miss. Little did I know that the next 40 minutes would change my life forever. As I sat in my rumpled business suit, necktie askew, reeking of airport beer and still breathing heavily from my airport dash, I could see from the corner of my eye that a very pretty young lady was sitting next to me. She was quietly absorbed in a book. Minding her own business. An angel appeared on my shoulder, saying, “Jay, I know what you’re thinking. You want to strike up a conversation with the pretty girl, don’t you? Don’t do it! You delayed her flight, you

smell like a brewery, and you could use a shave. Leave her alone.” But the devil appeared on my other shoulder, saying, “Are you nuts? She’s beautiful. Go for it, man. Think of something clever to say and strike up a conversation. It’s a short flight. The clock is ticking.” The devil won. I pondered a good opening line that would break the ice and lead to a nice conversation. With a clandestine head turn, I could see that the book she was reading was a biography of Abraham Lincoln. Jay: “Lincoln. I’ve heard of him.” As soon as the words left my mouth, I realized that I may have uttered the worst icebreaker in the history of flirting. Pretty Girl: (with a quizzical stare and slight smile) “You’ve heard of Abe Lincoln? You must have made it all the way to second grade.” I knew I had a winner. Rather than being turned off by my absurd line, she saw an opportunity for humor. Jay: “Have you gotten to the part where he throws a cherry tree Katie (left), during her Chrylser days across the Potomac?” Pretty Girl: (now smiling) “I haven’t gotten to that part, yet. It must come after Abe defeats Cornwallis at Yorktown.” An entertaining conversation followed where I learned that her name was Katie, and that she lived in Detroit and worked in the corporate finance department at Chrysler, making K-Cars for Lee Iacocca. I thought the box-on-wheels cars, like the Chrysler LeBaron, were quite homely. However, after my initial verbal gaffe, I didn’t offer my opinion on the fruits of her labor. When I discovered that she was visiting a girlfriend in Pittsburgh for the weekend, the devil on my shoulder took full control and pressed me to take action before the plane landed or the pretty girl would be gone forever. The angel had given up by that time, so I invited Katie and her girlfriend to join me and a buddy for happy hour and dinner that Saturday. Remarkably, she agreed, and gave me her friend’s phone number so I could call to confirm our date after we checked with our friends. As you might guess, her friend, Ginny, was shocked. “You gave a complete stranger my phone number? He could be the next Ted Bundy! Even worse, you want me to go out with his friend, another stranger?” Likewise, my friend, Mark, thought the double date idea was ridiculous, until I offered to buy him dinner and all the Iron City he could drink (which was a lot!). Our evening was fun for Katie and me, and remarkably

well-tolerated by Ginny and Mark. So, when I asked to see her again on my next business trip, she agreed. My Detroit clients suddenly became very needy and were showered with attention, especially on Fridays. Our rustbelt romance was well underway and I got to meet many of her friends and Chrysler workmates. As things were getting more serious, I wanted to be sure that Katie could tolerate my attraction to blues music played in seedy taverns, so I took her to amateur night at one of Detroit’s more earthy establishments, the Soup Kitchen. The star performer of the evening was a pregnant woman with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of scotch in the other, who wove her way to the microphone, belted out a great rendition of At Last, and staggered out the side door. When Katie said she loved the song as much as I did, I knew I’d found my life partner. I popped the question as we walked along the filthy sidewalk after the show. How romantic. To my great surprise and delight, Katie said “Yes,” and the angel on my shoulder reappeared and rejoiced. When she left Detroit to join me in Pittsburgh, parting gifts included an autographed bottle of Lee Iacocca wine and goodbye cards with touching wishes from people who had come to know me, like “Hang in there, Katie,” and “It’ll be OK,” and “God bless you.” Her friends and workmates half-jokingly deemed me “the Pittsburgh pirate” for plundering their town and dragging her away. I was flattered. Even though my USC High School baseball skills never met major league standards, I’d always aspired to be called a Pittsburgh Pirate. We eventually settled in USC and raised three boys in the wonderful environment and top-notch school system. To celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary, we finally opened Iacocca’s wine during our boring evening ritual of watching Jeopardy. After several sniffs, swirls, and gulps, we agreed that it tasted like the transmission fluid of an ’86 LeBaron. Alex Trebek deflected our attention from the awful wine when he delivered a clue from the American History category: “I crossed the Delaware in 1776.” Katie smiled at me the same way she did on Northwest flight 324, and answered, “Who is Abraham Lincoln?” The Soup Kitchen tavern PS: Dan Williams never in Detroit, Michigan spent time in jail. The Houston police concluded that Louisa had reacted out of fear, not fact, and his ex-wife had been pressing charges purely out of spite. Nevertheless, Louisa quit and Dan had a hard time finding a replacement. She had aggressively spread the word about Sassy, so Dan was permanently blackballed in the Houston housekeeping community. He moved to a condo that had maid service. And no dogs. n Share your thoughts about this article with Jay at bkefather@yahoo.com. Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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A Heated Yoga Practice Might Be Right for You Krissy Danburg, Co-owner, YogaSix Pittsburgh Over the years, you’ve likely heard a lot about yoga and the benefits of this form of exercise. The continual practice of yoga has amazing health benefits for the average person, including stress relief, improved flexibility, and stimulation of the immune system. Developing a regular yoga practice enables both a healthy physical foundation for the human experience, as well as an opportunity to take advantage of a self-care routine accessible to you at any time of the day. Just focusing on your breath can be considered a form of yoga. Inhale. Exhale. Congratulations, you just did yoga! If you have developed an interest in the physical practice of yoga, you might consider joining a studio. As you weigh the many options and styles of yoga studios available, it’s also important to think about heated or non-heated spaces. Hot yoga is simply the practice of yoga (any style or amount of time) in a room heated between 80 and 105 degrees. But did you know that there are additional health benefits attributed to exercising in these tropical-like conditions? Increase Flexibility Heated or not, a regular yoga practice can help to increase your flexibility. Oftentimes, not being flexible enough is an excuse for people to not participate in yoga. That is exactly why you should start, and doing so in a heated space can absolutely enhance the experience. A large majority of people that exercise 22

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

do not take the time to stretch pre-workout. The addition of heat and humidity can speed up the stretching process in your body and make it easier to move safely throughout class. The heat immediately loosens muscles, joints, and ligaments. If you enjoy other forms of exercise such as walking, running, cycling, and dancing, increasing your flexibility can improve your overall performance. Stress Relief The Harvard Medical School (https://www.health.harvard. edu/blog/coping-with-coronavirus-anxiety-2020031219183) recently highlighted that yoga and controlled breathing exercise is known to have stress and anxiety relieving benefits due to the emphasis on connecting your mind to your breath. In a heated room where you are sweating and your heart rate is increasing, you are forced to focus on your breathing. By focusing on the breath, you send signals to your brain to calm down and relax. If your brain feels like it has control over the situation, your stress level decreases. Deep breathing can reduce levels of the hormone Cortisol, which is linked to your “flight or fight” response. This, along with the movement of a yoga class, can reduce your stress and anxiety levels.

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1595 Mayview Road, BridgevilLe, PA 15017 Detoxify the Body “The emphasis on deep breathing in yoga helps to circulate oxygen-rich blood and aids the lymphatic system in removing toxins and fighting infection,” says Kelly Clifton Turner, director of Education at YogaSix. “The toxins are then released from your body through the natural process of sweating.” Sweat is produced by the body as a response to the heat in an effort to cool the body down. The amount of sweat produced in a 60-minute hot yoga class can be up to two times that which is produced in a yoga class done in a 70-degree room. It is also important to hydrate before and after a class to reduce the risk of dehydration and to aid in recovery. Heart Health Hot yoga may be especially helpful for blood pressure. Why should you focus so much on lowering hypertension? Because there is a powerful connection between the immune system and cardiovascular function, which is why those with heart conditions find themselves at a higher risk of contracting viruses and why they have more adverse responses when they do get sick. The connection goes in the other direction, too—when your immune system is compromised, it can end up raising your blood pressure. Weight Loss The practice of yoga in a heated space increases your heart rate. When your heart rate is up and you are moving your body, you will burn more calories. Over time, the increase in calories burned, as well as other benefits, including increased flexibility and strengthening and toning your muscles, often lead to healthier life choices.

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Skin Conditioner Are you glowing? After a hot yoga class the answer may, in fact, be “Yes.” Often, hot yoga participants experience a glowy look, not just because of the excessive amount of sweat they just produced, but because the increase of oxygenated blood flow through the body improves circulation, bringing more blood cells to the surface of your skin. If you are particularly prone to oily or acne skin conditions, hot yoga can help to open and clean out your pores. Anyone who lives in Pittsburgh knows that the winter conditions we experience here can have a negative impact on your skin. A heated environment, like a hot yoga studio or sauna, can help to reintroduce moisture to your body. Outside of the health benefits, hot yoga can be a fun and lifeenhancing experience. Oftentimes, studios are building a community of people who are all working toward common fitness and mindfulness goals. The experience should be energizing, empowering, and fun; and if you leave a class thinking it was the best 60 minutes of my day, then you’ve found your place! It won’t be easy, but it should be enjoyable and make you feel accomplished. Consider a trip to the studio a mini vacation to a tropical location just minutes from your front door. A hot yoga studio membership may be just the self-care routine your body needs this winter season. YogaSix delivers the life-enhancing benefits of a heated yoga practice through its six core classes that vary in heat and style. You don’t have to be a yoga expert to experience and enjoy YogaSix. n The first YogaSix studio plans to open late 2020 in the Galleria of Mt. Lebanon. Call 412-593-2464 or visit www.yogasix.com/south-hills for more information. Co-owners Krissy and Jarrid Danburg live in the South Hills area with their three children. See YogaSix ad on page 25. Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Live Graciously Upper St. Clair to Host Light Up for Unity Night A Community Luminaria Tradition to Embrace All

Join your neighbors and other USC residents at Sunday, December 6, at dusk. Community members are further dusk on Sunday, December 6 for Upper St. Clair’s annual Light encouraged to turn on their assembled holiday outdoor light Up for Unity Night. displays to fully engage in this community-inspired opportunity. For many years, the Upper St. Clair community has parLuminaria kits can be purchased from all USCHS instrumenticipated in joining its neighbors in lighting luminaria during tal students, who will make and deliver the kits on Saturday, the winter holidays. This year, the December 5. The kits can also be Community Foundation of Upper Regardless of what holiday we celebrate, ordered online at www.uscbpa.org. St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair there are two things we find in common: The deadline to place an order is Band Parents Association are comMonday, November 30. our hope for a more peaceful world ing together to host Light Up for In addition to selling single kits, and light to show us the way. Unity Night to celebrate our comkits are also being sold in bundles munity and its differences. Regardless of what holiday we of two at a discounted price so that USC community members celebrate, there are two things we find in common: our hope can participate in the community’s Light Up for Unity Night for a more peaceful world and light to show us the way. and also set out luminaria on another evening to celebrate their To participate, USC residents need only set out luminaria on event or holiday of choice. Many USC neighborhood associations are For questions or more information, visit www.uscbpa.org or email fundraising@uscbpa.org. coordinating the sale of luminaria for their neighborhoods. If your neighborhood asTo order your Luminaria kit, including 12 candles and bags and sand, sociation or particular group is interested to which will be delivered to your door on December 5, visit the USC band participate, contact Jennifer Pesci-Kelly at parents’ website at www.uscbpa.org and click on the “Order Luminaria” fundraising@uscbpa.org. link to order online. Paypal or credit cards are accepted for payment. Proceeds from the luminaria sale help support Alternatively, complete and mail the order form found below with your the music programs in our schools and benefit all payment. Contact Jennifer Pesci-Kelly at fundraising@uscbpa.org or call instrumentalists at Upper St. Clair High School. n 412-576-6013 for more information.

2020 Luminaria Kit Order Form

(Order form and payment must be received no later than Monday, November 30.)

Name: ________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________________________ State:___________________Zip: __________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________ Total enclosed: $________________________________________________ Price of Kit: $15/kit; or 2 kits/$25. Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association

Mail to: PO Box 112541 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

Give Generously

I Heard A Little Noise I heard a little noise last night, While I lay sleeping in my bed. So I decided I should wake up, Clearing confusion from my head. I slowly started down the stairs, Just to see what made the noise. That’s when I spied Santa Claus, Opening up his giant bag of toys. I do not think that he noticed me, As I watched him in total dismay. He spied some milk and cookies, My kids left him on a serving tray. He sat right down and took a rest, With our cookies and milk in hand. I think he just needed a little break, From his trek throughout the land. I watched as he filled our stockings, That hung from the mantle so tight. I watched as he left some other gifts, In boxes wrapped up so very bright. He hollered to the reindeer up above Now it’s time for us to be on our way We have lots of other homes to visit, Before Christmas Eve night turns into day. In leaving, I saw Santa give me a wink And then it was up the chimney he flew. As he left, I know I clearly heard him say, A very Merry Christmas from me to you. —Jay Walsh, retired Eisenhower Elementary custodian

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Live Graciously Treat Your Someone Special to a Spa Experience

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Cook Book from the Past

Bethel Presbyterian Church, while not in Upper St. Clair Township, has long been a place of worship for many USC residents. In 1925, the Young Ladies Missionary Society assembled the Bethel Cook Book, with recipes from church members. Names of well-established USC families, including Boyce, Drake, Fife, McEwen, Orr, and Poellot were contributors. Their names frequent the pages. Perhaps, try one of the nearly century-old recipes during your holiday celebrations this year! n —Information and photos provided by the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

My husband and I have been USC residents for nine years and we are proud to be local small business owners of Shear Integrity. One thing that I’ve learned as a wife, mother, and business owner, is that we all need to take time to de-stress, rejuvenate, and take care of ourselves. Massage, facial, nail, and body services are relaxing and can be beneficial for stress relief. Give the gift of relaxation! Shear Integrity Salon & Spa offers gift certificates to help you show that special someone in your life—a loved one, a neighbor, a teacher—that you care about them. n See ad for Shear Integrity Salon & Spa on this page.

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The Four Seasons of a Tree

Don’t judge things by one difficult season There was a man who had four sons. He wanted his sons to learn to not judge things too quickly. So he sent them each on a quest, in turn, to go and look at a pear tree that was a great distance away. The first son went in the winter, the second in the spring, the third in summer, and the youngest son in the fall. When they had all gone and come back, he called them together to describe what they had seen. The first son said that the tree was ugly, bent, and twisted. The second son said “No,” it was covered with green buds and full of promise. The third son disagreed, he said it was laden with blossoms that smelled so sweet and looked so beautiful, it was the most graceful thing he had ever seen. The last son disagreed with all of them; he said it was ripe and drooping with fruit, full of life and fulfillment. The man then explained to his sons that they were all right, because they had each seen but one season in the tree’s life. He told them that you cannot judge a tree, or a person, by only one season, and that the essence of who they are—and the pleasure, joy, and love that come from that life—can only be measured at the end, when all the seasons are up. If you give up when it’s winter, you will miss the promise of your spring, the beauty of your summer, the fulfillment of your fall. Don’t let the pain of one season destroy the joy of all the rest! n —Author unknown

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Upper St. Clair School District

Board of School Directors

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

Patrick A. Hewitt Vice President 412-831-0178 2023*

Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2023*

Jennifer L. Bowen 412-660-5846 2021*

@USCSchools

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

Administrator

Secretary/Email Address

Extension

Dr. John Rozzo...........................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Superintendent of Schools smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky...................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant/Deputy Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Amy Pfender...............................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Assistant to the Superintendent mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Lou Angelo ..........................................................langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2272 Director of Operations & Facilities Ray Berrott.................................................................rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2059 Director of Technology Sean Bryson ...............................................................sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2560 Chief of School Police Dr. Judy Bulazo .........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214 Director of Curriculum and Professional Development mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us Scott Burchill ............................................................Dawn Machi ............................................ 2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Carson, Jr............................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218 Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us Cassandra Doggrell ..................................................Julie Karabinos......................................... 2116 Director of Student Support Services jkarabinos@uscsd.k12.pa.us Lauren Madia ..............................................................Terri Lott .................................................. 2283 Assistant Director of Student Support Services tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jonn Mansfield ............................................................jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us ..................... 3450 Director of Transportation Tina Vojtko ................................................................tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2215 Communications Specialist Bradley Wilson ..........................................................bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 3318 Director of Strategic Initiatives

School District Central Office Administration

— S C H O O L

Barbara L. Bolas President 412-833-9841 2023*

www.uscsd.k12.pa.us

Phillip J. Elias 412-257-1198 2023*

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-0622 2021*

Dr. Daphna Gans 412-851-18250 2021*

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Amy Pfender Assistant to the Superintendent

Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance

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

Angela B. Petersen 412-833-4873 2023* The 2020–21 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 scheduled for July.

D I S A. Schnore T Jennifer 412-833-4141 2021* R *Date indicates expiration of term. I St. Clair School District Annual Notices C TheUpper required annual notices to parents of children who reside in Upper St. Clair School District are available online. Visit the T the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information. www.uscsd.k12.pa.us 28

Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Dr. Judy Bulazo Cassandra Doggrell Director of Curriculum and Director of Student Professional Development Support Services

School District Building Administration

Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Timothy Wagner .............................. High School Principal Dr. Daniel Beck ...................................... High School Assistant Principal Dan Zelenski ........................................... High School Assistant Principal Joseph DeMar ......................................... Fort Couch Middle School Principal Erin Peterson .......................................... Fort Couch Assistant Principal Daniel O’Rourke ..................................... Boyce Middle School Principal Dr. Christine Mussomeli ....................... Boyce Middle School Assistant Principal Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux ........... Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller ............................................. Eisenhower Elementary School Principal/ Supervisor of Elementary Education Lindsay Klousnitzer................................ Streams Elementary School Principal

Winter 2020

Upper St. Clair School District 1775 McLaughlin Run Road Elementary Schools (grades K–4)

•

412-833-1600

Middle Schools (grades 5–8)

•

www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Board of School Directors Barbara L. Bolas, President Patrick A. Hewitt, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Jennifer L. Bowen Phillip J. Elias Daphna Gans Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Angela B. Petersen Jennifer A. Schnore

Board of School Directors

Albert Baker

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux, principal 2300 Morton Road–412-833-1600, ext. 4000 Erected: 1968, enrollment: 436* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Boyce (grades 5–6)

Daniel O’Rourke, principal 1500 Boyce Road–412-833-1600, ext. 5000 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 593* School day: 8:30 a.m.–3:15 p.m.

The Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors consists of nine elected directors. The regular meetings of the Board generally take place on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Upper St. Clair Central Office Board Room. There is no scheduled meeting in July. Board minutes are available on the School District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. For further information regarding meetings, call 412-833-1600, ext. 2218.

Central Office

Fort Couch (grades 7–8)

Dwight D. Eisenhower

Mark Miller, principal 100 Warwick Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 8000 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 535* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Joseph DeMar, principal 515 Fort Couch Road–412-833-1600, ext. 3000 Erected: 1951, enrollment: 629* School day: 8:30 a.m.–3:15 p.m.

Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent The Upper St. Clair School District's administrative offices are located on the Upper St. Clair High School campus, adjacent to the stadium. The mailing address is 1775 McLaughlin Run Road, and can be reached at 412-833-1600.

High School (grades 9–12)

Buses/Transportation

Carl R. Streams

Lindsay Klousnitzer, principal 1560 Ashlawn Drive–412-833-1600, ext. 6000 Erected: 1966, enrollment: 470* School day: 8:15 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Upper St. Clair High School Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal 1825 McLaughlin Run Road 412-833-1600, ext. 2530 Erected: 1960, enrollment: 1372* School day: 7:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.

* Enrollment figures for each school are as of September 2020. Total District enrollment is 4035.

Winter 2020

The primary responsibility of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Department of Transportation, located in Cecil Township, is to provide safe, efficient transportation for the 4300 public, private, and special needs students who attend approximately 30 schools within a ten-mile radius of Upper St. Clair. For more information, contact Jonn Mansfield, Director of Transportation at 412-833-1600, ext. 3450, or jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Cont. on page 30 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — S C H O O L D I S T R I C T

Cont. from page 29

R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — S C H O O L D I S T R I C T

School-Wide Enrichment Program (SWEP) for grades 1–4 Many opportunities are available for elementary level students to explore topics that interest them through SWEP. Mini-assemblies, mentorships, and independent study projects are all part of SWEP. For more information, contact Mark Miller, supervisor of elementary education, at 412-833-1600, ext. 8000, or mmiller@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Food Services The School District’s six nutrition centers serve thousands of healthy meals each day. For information, contact Ashley Lindhurst, Food Service Director at 412-833-1600, ext. 2287, or alindhurst@uscsd.k12.pa.us Technology The role of the Upper St. Clair School District’s Technology Department is to provide and support the use of resources that enhance the teaching and learning processes, strengthen communication, and improve efficiency of operations. For more information, contact Ray Berrott, Director of Technology at 412-833-1600, ext. 2059, or rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us. International Baccalaureate (IB) Program The Upper St. Clair School District initiated an International Baccalaureate Program in 1998 and now offers this program in grades one through 12. • Primary Years Program (grade1–4): Rebecca Smith, 412-833-1600, ext. 6078, or rsmith@uscsd.k12.pa.us • Middle Years Program: Boyce (grade 5–6): Chrissy Caragein, 412-833-1600, ext. 5067, or ccaragein@uscsd.k12.pa.us Fort Couch (grade 7–8): Andrew Bowers, 412-833-1600, ext. 3236, or abowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us High School (grade 9–10): Sarah Susa, 412-833-1600, ext. 2538, or ssusa@uscsd.k12.pa.us • Diploma Program: Tanya Chothani, 412-833-1600, ext. 2644, or tchothani@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Boosters (Parent Support Groups) Boosters and parent groups are formed to support various activities and sports teams. For information, call Upper St. Clair High School at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260 (athletics) or ext. 2264 (activities). Parent Teacher Council Members 2020–2021 Upper St. Clair’s Parent Teacher Council (PTC) for the 2020–2021 school year include Kerstin Goodworth, president; Gina Swanson, first vice president; Dr. John Rozzo, second vice president; Laura Lisien, secretary; Yesha Katukota, treasurer; and Batool Nulwala, board advisor. We wish them continued success in providing our District with their help and guidance as they enhance the academic and social experiences for our children. Fine and Performing Arts The Upper St. Clair Band Parents Association is a parent group formed to support the band and orchestra. The Upper St. Clair Choral Boosters is a parent group formed to support the choral groups. For information, call Upper St. Clair High School Fine and Performing Arts Department at 412-833-1600, ext. 2627. Theatre Angels support the USCHS spring musical. Call 412-833-1600, ext. 2530 or ext. 3325 for more information. Extracurriculars Sports programs are available at all levels. For information regarding middle school or high school sports, contact Athletic Director Dr. Kevin Deitrick via email at kdeitrick@uscsd.k12.pa.us or phone the Athletic Office at 412-833-1600, ext. 2260. Music programs, including chorus, theater, orchestra, and band, as well as cheerleading and dance are available at various grade levels. For information regarding high school activities, call Activities Coordinator Brooke Tarcson at 412-833-1600, ext. 2264, or email at btarcson@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For information regarding elementary and middle school activities, call the respective building’s school principal. Kennywood Day (a Community-Wide Tradition) Kennywood Day is a community-wide tradition of fun. Each year on the third Monday in June, all Upper St. Clair residents are invited to participate in a day at Kennywood Park. Discounted tickets are available for purchase prior to the event. Details are posted on the District’s website each spring.

District Calendar

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

The USC School District detailed monthly calendar is available online, providing residents with the most up-todate information about events in our Township’s schools. To access the calendar, visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us and click on the “Calendar” tab. In addition to viewing events for the entire District, there is an option to filter by specific school building. See the abbreviated calendar on page 31.

Volunteers in Our Schools (grades K–12) We are grateful for each parent and community member who contributes to the success of our students. The Child Protective Services Law requires background checks for volunteers in schools. The Upper St. Clair School District safety team manages the volunteer clearance process for the District. Clearances are processed by outside agencies, and it takes time for them to be completed. Prospective volunteers are encouraged to complete the process as soon as possible. Detailed information—including step-by-step directions—is available on the District’s website. If you have questions or concerns about volunteer clearances, call 412-833-1600 , ext. 2121, or email Stacey Liguori, safety coordinator, at sliguori@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Open Mics Open Mics are informational meetings between building principals, teachers, administrators, and parents, where current issues and concerns are discussed. Contact the respective building’s principal or parent organization president for more information. Each year, the Parent Teacher Council (PTC) hosts two Open Mic sessions with the superintendent of schools—one in the fall and one in the spring, alternating morning and evening times. No Place for Hate® Upper St. Clair School District believes that having a school community where all children feel safe and respected is an important foundation to academic success. In 2020, each of the District’s six schools earned the designation as a “No Place for Hate” school from the Anti-Defamation League. Implemented within the District beginning in fall 2019, No Place for Hate helps incorporate anti-bias and bullying prevention resources into the District’s existing programs for one consistent message of inclusivity. To be named a No Place for Hate school, schools must establish a student-led committee of teachers, students, and parents; create an opportunity for students to take the No Place for Hate pledge; design and implement at least three programs to bring students together in discussion to combat bias and bullying; and provide anti-bias training to staff. To maintain the No Place for Hate designation, schools must continue to work with its students and school community to foster and promote a welcoming, inclusive environment for all.

Upper St. Clair School District Remaining 2020–2021 Calendar Revised

Nov 26–27 Dec 24–Jan 1 Jan 18 Mar 5 Mar 30 Mar 31–Apr 5 May 13 May 20 May 27 May 31 Jun 3 Jun 9 Jun 10

No School–Thanksgiving Recess No School–Winter Recess No School–Teacher In-Service Half Day (Early Dismissal for Students) No School–Teacher In-Service No School–Spring Recess Elementary Early Dismissal–12:45 p.m. Fort Couch Early Dismissal–1:15 p.m. Boyce Early Dismissal–1:15 p.m. No School–Memorial Day High School Commencement Last Day of School for Students Teacher In-Service

(Early dismissals shown in the calendar above are school specific for the listed event.)

The Upper St. Clair School Board approved the revised 2020–21 calendar information on August 17, 2020. Due to COVID-19, School District officials will continually review the 2020–21 calendar to determine if further changes are necessary. Visit the District’s website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us for the most up-to-date information.

Parent Teacher Council (PTC) Parent Teacher Council (PTC) is the “umbrella” organization in Upper St. Clair (USC) that provides leadership and coordination for the six parent/teacher organizations in USC. If you would like to be involved with your child’s parent/teacher organization and get the “big picture,” you are welcome to join! For more information, contact Kerstin Goodworth, president, at 412-580-5120 or email kerstinmayr@hotmail.com. Building Level Parent/Teacher Organizations Each school building has an organization of parents, who together with their teachers, work within the schools to provide extra help, additional programs, and educational and social activities for the children. For information, call your building’s school representative at 412-833-1600. Baker Elementary School PTA – ext. 4000 Eisenhower Elementary School PTO – ext. 8000 Streams Elementary School PTO – ext. 6000 Boyce Middle School PTO – ext. 5000 Fort Couch Middle School PTSO – ext. 3000 Upper St. Clair High School PTSO – ext. 2236 Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) GATE is a committee of the PTA Council whose objective is to provide information and support to parents of gifted and academically talented students in the District. Partners in Education (PIE) PIE is a group of parents, administrators, and staff formed as a branch of the PTA Council to foster the best educational environment for all exceptional children and to educate and assist parents of exceptional children. Spelling Bee The Spelling Bee committee funds and manages the District’s elementary and middle schools Scripps spelling competitions. STEAM The STEAM committee works with District staff to develop and manage innovative after-school programs in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math for the benefit of all students. Wellness The Wellness committee is a group of parents, administrators, and staff that promote and support initiatives to raise awareness about the impact of having a healthy mind and body, and encourage the development of both.

The mission of the Youth Steering Committee of Upper St. Clair, with School District and Township representation, is to involve the Upper St. Clair community in providing positive direction and support to our youth and their families. Members include Adam Boucek, chair; Jennifer Bowen, vice chair; Angela Petersen, secretary; members: Geralyn Austin, Amy Billerbeck, Lynn Boucek, Mike Burch, Tina Florkowski, Manjri Gupta, Ed Kavo, Jeffrey Krantz, Lisa McMillan, Robert Plummer, Gary Seech; Stacie Sebastian, resident professional; Dan Beck, USC School District liaison; and Lynn Walcoff, USC Township liaison. Winter 2020

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R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — S C H O O L D I S T R I C T

First Day of School While the first day of school might have looked a little different this year, it still had the fun and excitement of a new school year! Whether it was elbow bumps as the students were greeted at school or laughing while doing lessons at home, the 2020â&#x20AC;&#x201C;21 school year was off to a great start, even while dealing with COVID-19 restrictions. n â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Photo credit: Tina Vojtko

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

Hello Friends of Eisenhower Elementary Christopher George, teacher, Eisenhower Elementary Rachel Carlson, president, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair

Alumni, parents, former staff members, and anyone with memories related to Eisenhower Elementary School, we need your help! A project is underway to document the history of Upper St. Clair Township’s Eisenhower Elementary School, which opened its doors September 1959. No venture like this would be complete without the recollections of the community and staff. There are several ways that you can contribute to this project. First, we would love to hear your memories of when you or your child attended Eisenhower. The same is true for any former staff member who worked at the school. Second, we are looking for any class, staff, or other photos that were taken at Eisenhower. If you have photos and are interested in donating them to the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair (HSUSC), we would greatly appreciate it! Any images we receive will be archived and preserved for future generations. If you are unable to donate your photos, the HSUSC would love to see you at a “digitization day,” a date to be set in the near future, where items will be scanned and returned to their respective owners. Finally, there is the chance that some of you might have old home movies that document an event at Eisenhower. If this is the case, we would love to chat with you about an opportunity to share those, as well. When pondering what memories to share about Eisenhower, consider the following: 1. Where did you live in USC at the time of your memory? Did you or your child walk or ride the bus to Eisenhower? 2. What do you remember about your teachers? Who was the school’s principal? While the specific date of this article 3. Do you remember any special events at Eisenhower (e.g. Halloween, Christmas, field trips, is unknown, it is believed to have been end-of-the-year events, after-school events, etc.)? printed late fall/winter of 1958. 4. Do you connect any school memories to important historical events (e.g. President Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., Vietnam, the moon landing, the space shuttle, 9/11, etc.)? 5. Were you attending school when President Eisenhower died in 1969? 6. What were special classes like when you attended Eisenhower (re: art, gym, music, library, band)? How about lunch or recess? 7. How was elementary school different when you were at Eisenhower than it is today? Eisenhower Elementary School; photo taken in April 1984 8. If you are a former staff member, when did you work at Eisenhower? What was your role? What principal(s) did you work with?

Send your Eisenhower memories via regular mail to Christopher George at Eisenhower Elementary, 100 Warwick Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or via email at eisenhowermemories@hsusc.org. Send your photos to Rachel Carlson at the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair, P.O. Box 12681, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. For further information or questions, email president@hsusc.org or phone 412-835-2050. We look forward to hearing from you! n

Eisenhower Elementary School, circa 1991

USCSD Staff Recognized for 25 Years of Service Ten staff members were honored for 25 years of service during the District’s annual opening day, the first day back for the 2020–21 school year for teachers and teacher aides. The event, held virtually for the first time ever, also included welcoming remarks from Bill Gehrlein, teachers’ union president; Kerstin Goodworth, Parent Teacher Council president; Barbara Bolas, school board president; and Dr. John Rozzo, USCSD superintendent of schools.

Twenty-five-year service honorees include: Joseph DeMar, principal, Fort Couch Susan Fleckenstein, gifted teacher, Boyce Constantina Lardas, Latin teacher, USCHS Carol Olack, health and physical education teacher, Eisenhower Christine Pierskalla, special education teacher, USCHS Kristen Rauber, elementary teacher, Eisenhower Jonelle Stambaugh, secretary, Boyce Kathleen Stasik, teacher aide, Baker Angela Tena, French teacher, Boyce Anne Wagner, teacher aide, Streams n Winter 2020

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Parade Honors Dr. Claire Miller This fall, the Upper St. Clair School Board approved the retirement of Dr. Claire Miller, Streams Elementary School principal. Dr. Miller, who has led the Streams educational community for more than 16 years, left her post at the end of September. Families, colleagues, and others had an opportunity to bid Dr. Miller farewell via a car parade at Streams. Friends of all ages drove by to wish Dr. Miller the happiest and healthiest retirement, with students providing drawings, cards, signs, balloons, and flowers. Dr. Miller had a successful 34-year career in public education. She began as a social studies teacher before entering school administration as a middle school assistant principal. She served as a middle school principal before landing at Streams Elementary, where she spent the last 16 years. “I know that we’ve all heard the saying ‘Choose a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.’ My 34 years in education have certainly proved that adage to be true,” said Dr. Miller. “I can honestly say that no role made that saying ring truer than my 16 years in the Upper St. Clair School District.” n

USC Kindergarten Registration 2021–2022 Information regarding Kindergarten registration for the 2021–22 school year will be posted on Upper St. Clair School District’s website (www.uscsd.k12.pa.us) in early 2021. The District operates a half-day Kindergarten program, with the morning program held 8:15–10:55 a.m. and the afternoon program 12:05–2:45 p.m. Students registering for Kindergarten must be five years of age by September 1, 2021, to be enrolled for the 2021–22 school year. Proof of residency within the USC School District is required for enrollment. Questions regarding the District’s elementary enrollment process should contact Terri Lott, registration coordinator, at 412-833-1600, ext. 2283, or via email at tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us. n 34

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Winter 2020

Marching Band Honors Veterans, Volunteers, First Responders, and Frontline Workers Paul Fox, Volunteer USCHS Band Announcer

Wi t h s t i r r i n g renditions of the ever-popular Battle Hymn of the Republic, Fanfare for the Common Man, America–My Country ’Tis of Thee, and The National March (Stars & Stripes Forever), the Upper St. Clair High School marching band unveiled its 2020 halftime “Musical Tribute to Our Local Heroes” at the Panther’s home opener varsity football game against Bethel Park this past September. Under the direction of USCHS band director and Performing Arts curriculum leader Dr. John Seybert, drum majors Maddie Nolen and Henry Zou, and auxiliary captains Skyler Anderson and Madison Davis, the band dedicated its show to first responders, including the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department, USC Police Department, and volunteers on Township boards or in community arts, medical, and charitable organizations (e.g. Community Band South, St. Clair Hospital, Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, and all the frontline school and Township staff, which includes teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria and maintenance workers, custodians, managers/administrators, etc.) As representative models of excellence, the contributions of three individuals and others were showcased at the home opener half-time event: • Douglas Dennig, a 45-year veteran firefighter and 30-year volunteer at St. Clair Hospital • The half-century of service of former USC Township police chief and current Township commissioner Ronald Pardini • The 50-year legacy of James Bennett, band director, curriculum leader, theater manager, longest standing trustee of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, and founding director of Community Band South

During a home football game against Pine Richland the following week, the band recognized: • Russell Rauch, a 1970 graduate of USCHS, U.S. Army Reserves (1971–77), and currently one of the most senior and versatile Township employees, contributing more than 44 years as a USC fireman and working for the USC Police Department. (See article on page 12.) • Nora Helfrich for her more than 42 years of service to USC, now in her 21st year as director of Tri-Community South EMS, leading a very dedicated and highly skilled team of certified first responders, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and emergency medical dispatchers. • Also honored were the many other essential and frontline workers, including healthcare providers, protective service workers, food bank volunteers and meal preparers, utility and public works personnel, employees in grocery and general merchandise stores, production and food processing workers, janitor and maintenance staffs, agricultural laborers, and truck and transit drivers. As USCHS band announcer, I introduced this group as “selfless heroes, who went to work while we stayed home during the pandemic restrictions brought on by COVID-19.” After several weeks off while the football team traveled to away games, the “Pride of Upper St. Clair” marching band returned to its home field on October 9 and honored the Upper St. Clair Township and School District police, spotlighting USC’s finest who are graduates of Upper St. Clair: • Sean Bryson, Chief of School Police (USCHS Class of 1991) • Jonathan Wharton, More than 19 years of service in the USC Police Department, promoted to Township Chief of Police in August 2018 (USCHS Class of 1988) • Officer Philip Saracco, U.S. Army 2016–current (USCHS Class of 2014) • Officer Sean Allebrand, USC VFD 2014–19 (USCHS Class of 2013) • Officer Sean Truver (USCHS Class of 2010)

Winter 2020

The closing regular season home game on October 16 was devoted to embracing the patriotism, personal sacrifice, and loyal service of veterans everywhere, acknowledging, in particular, the contributions of courageous men and women of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Space Force, Coast Guard, and Reserves, including some members of the USC band family: Claude Andross, Navy 1947–1951 Eric Bartolowits, Air Force 1987–2008 Alan Boal, Armed Forces Radio Network 1950–1953 Gregory Buchanan, Air Force 1995– present John Burtt, Marines 1968–1971 Linn Coffman, Army 1938–1946 Eugene Cowles, Army 1944–1946 Joseph Deep, Army Air Force 1944– 1946 David Findish, Air Force 2002–present Steve Fleming, Army 1968–1969 John Joyce, Army 1963–1966 Arthur Kiliany, Army 1958–1960 Theodore Korona, Army 1941–1945 Edward Lawrence, Navy/National Guard 1968–1977 Charles Lucas, Army 1953–1955 Stephen Lynch, Air Force 1964–1967 Chris McPherson, Army 1989–1994 Brendan Neal, Naval Academy, second year (USCHS Class of 2019) Dan Nolen, Jr., Air Force 1964–1968 Robert Rich, Navy 1968–1990 George Eduard Rieker II, Navy 1951–1958 Richard Rohrich, Army 1943–1952 Matthew Satterfield, Navy 1997–2001 Bernie Tryon, Navy 1967–1973 Renz Weinmann, Navy 1948–1954 Casimir Welch, Navy 1950–1954 n

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Sound of Music

USCBPA Senior Recognition Committee The spring and summer of 2020 were pretty quiet in Upper St. Clair. Life in general for many of us had slowed down, and some things had stopped completely. That was also the case for many school-aged musicians. The COVID-19 pandemic that shuttered schools in the spring kept them from their instrument lessons, large group ensemble practices, end-of-year performances, scheduled trips, and generally… from making music. However, in late July, a sound interrupted the quiet. The sound of a band, the Upper St. Clair High School marching band! Through the monumental efforts of the marching band faculty and USC School District administrators, more than 90 students gathered on the high school fields for the rite of passage that is band camp. It was band camp reimagined COVID-19 style however, with students grouped in pods of 25 or less, field drills rewritten to accommodate social distancing, temperatures of all participants taken daily, and masks worn even in the excessive heat. And so the sound of music began again in USC schools. The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), along with many other performing arts organizations, supported a study by the University of Colorado and the University of Maryland, on the spread of the COVID-19 virus through aerosols while singing or playing an instrument. The results of this study are guiding school administrators and music educators as students returned to the classroom this past fall. Guidelines included familiar mitigation strategies—social distance requirements, limits on the length of time instruments are played or students are singing, as well as masks, for both the musician and sometimes the instrument. At the time of this writing, students in the band programs at the middle schools are attending once-a-week virtual lessons with their band teachers. Meanwhile at the high school, band classes are meeting both in person and virtually within the hybrid school model. According to Dr. John Seybert, USCHS band teacher, marching band director, and performing arts curriculum leader, “The most challenging part of teaching music this fall has been the safety guidelines that do not permit students to sing or play instruments indoors. All of our band classes and rehearsals have to be outdoors. But, I am honored to work with our students in any learning environment.”

Auxiliary members lining up to perform, left to right: Sarah Zadrozny (senior), Skylar Anderson (senior), Jaelyn Lakes (freshman), Emily Barrie (sophomore) 36

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Winter 2020

USC Marching Band Class of 2021, left to right, front row: Sarah Zadrozny (aux), Jacob Lucas (trumpet), Nicholas Pacella (drum captain snare), Jackson Buchanan (bass drum), Maddie Nolen (drum major), Henry Zou (drum major), Bianca Funaro (clarinet), Eliza Glunt (clarinet), Ben Lang (mellophone), Chelsey Ragaller (aux); middle row: Natalie Rach (aux), Patrick Joyce (sousaphone), Daniel Rieker (trombone), Steven Halpner (drum captain tenor), Eric Wang (snare), Kahra Loding (trumpet), Noah Karrow (snare), Danny Spatz (tenor sax), Emily Gianni (aux); back row: Madison Davis (aux captain), Andrew Higgs (trumpet), Cal Maddigan (mellophone), Alexander Mitchell (tenor sax), Elijah Rothaus (drum set), Rohan Mishra (flute), Skylar Anderson (aux captain), Lillian Vasilko (band manager). Special thanks to M&M Photography for creating this digitally enhanced moment.

When students are physically present for band class, they take their instruments outside to fields and parking lots to play. Those students who are learning from home are practicing with digital music tools and focusing on music theory concepts. Senior clarinet player Eliza Glunt noted that when students are in school they are only playing with half of their ensemble due to the hybrid model, and her classmate and fellow clarinet Bianca Funaro added that at times it can be difficult to hear each other with masks and the separation of social distancing. Focused on the positive, Eliza goes on to say, “Like music often does, it brings everyone together even though we are virtually apart. We continue to find ways to make the best of this situation.” As the weather begins to cool, students, families, and teachers are wondering what making music in USC will be like in the coming months. Through the uncertainty of the weeks leading up to the start of the school year, the marching band spent hours practicing in small pods for a show that they weren’t sure would happen. Senior and mellophone player Ben Lang said that small pods for practicing “made it difficult to visualize the whole drill” and worried that the band “would be disconnected socially” since they were never allowed to practice all together. In spite of all the challenges,

Marching band director Dr. John Seybert and drum majors Maddie Nolen and Henry Zou lead the band to the stadium.

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the band successfully learned a patriotic pregame and halftime show highlighted by songs that included the Battle Hymn of the Republic and Our National March. Bianca was excited when she finally heard that they would be allowed to perform at the home football games. “I was so happy and relieved. That’s the main purpose of the marching band. To show up at games and play for others.” The band performed for two football games in September and two games in October, as well as at a special event for family and friends. However, band students, particularly seniors, are keenly aware that these are unusual times and nothing is ever certain. Eliza pointed out that it’s difficult “not knowing when my ‘lasts’ are or were. I never know which performance is my last, or if school will be safe next week. I struggle with how much I took for granted last year without knowing it could be my last.” Senior and drumline captain Nick Pacella, who plays the center snare, missed the traditions that never happened this year, including band camp section Olympics, bus rides to away games, and doing the drumline circle before games without worrying about social distancing. Nick goes on, however, to say, with a newfound wisdom that he and other members of the Class of 2021 share, “We are incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend band camp and perform at home football games this season. Even COVID, masks, and social distancing cannot drain the fun from marching band!” Eliza echoed his sentiment with, “Pandemic or not, my friends are what make band fun. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing; it’s the people you’re doing it with. Whether it’s learning drills in 90-degree heat with masks on or singing through a computer screen, my peers’ smiles and laughs make any day I’m having a million times better.”

Maybe there is a music lesson for us all in this shared pandemic experience, listening to the joyful sounds of being together and the human interaction that connects us. The sound is particularly evident within the student body and the USCHS Class of 2021. Dr. Seybert noted, “The students’ commitment and resilience to the ever-changing situation is encouraging to our entire staff. It is apparent they are excited to get back to something ‘normal.’” We offer a special thanks to all those who’ve helped to bring the sound of music back to USC! n —Photo credit: M&M Photography, Andrew Halpner, Jeff Henning

USCHS marching band, seated socially distanced in the stadium at a USC home football game; instrumentalists ten feet apart, auxiliary members six feet apart Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Free School Meals Provide Stress Relief for Families

In mid-September, Upper St. Clair School District began offering free breakfasts and lunches to all students, regardless of ability to pay. Citing the unprecedented nature of the pandemic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture extended waivers nationwide that allow meals to be served to students in-person and/or via pick-up at no cost to the student through the end of 2020 or until funding runs out. In addition to serving free meals in school cafeterias, USC has been providing to-go meals via curbside pick-up for students when they are learning at home. On average, the District distributes more than 10,000 meals each week. The program is open to all children age 18 and under who reside within Upper St. Clair Township. “The meal pick-up offering has been an incredible resource. As parents, we have been tasked with things this year that we’ve never had to do before, and it, at times, has been quite overwhelming,” said Michelle Holzer, Streams Elementary mom. “Knowing that my kids have breakfasts and lunches for each of their remote learning days has helped to alleviate some of that burden.” Students enrolled in hybrid learning can receive breakfast and lunch from the school’s nutrition center each day they attend in-person. In addition, a to-go meal package that includes three lunches and three breakfasts are offered for curbside pick-up for the three days of remote learning. Fully remote learners can receive a to-go meal package via curbside pick-up that includes five lunches and five breakfasts for the week. n

Packing meals

Volunteers help with delivery

For more information about school meals, contact Ashley Lindhurst, food service director, at alindhurst@uscsd.k12. pa.us. Contact Lauren Madia, assistant director of student support services, at lmadia@uscsd.k12.pa.us with questions or concerns regarding your personal circumstances.

USC Students Recognized for National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Eleven USCHS seniors were named Semifinalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship competition. Scoring in the top one percent of all juniors completing the PSAT in October 2019 were Richard Carlson, Christian Chiu, Harrison Chui, Donovan Kohler, Richa Mahajan, Shay McDowell, Samantha Seewald, Ishaan Shah, Sophia Shi, Constantine Tripodes, and Jason Zhang. “This is an incredible achievement for these 11 students,” said Dr. Tim Wagner, USCHS principal. “We are proud not only of their national recognition, but also for the effort and dedication these and other students display in their daily academics and extracurricular pursuits.” Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT—the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test—during the fall of their junior year. Of the nearly 1.6 million entrants, the top one percent (approximately 16,000 students) qualify as Semifinalists. These students now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7600 National Merit Scholarships that will be offered this coming spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application that highlights academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. 38

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Winter 2020

National Merit Finalists will be named in February 2021, followed by the naming of National Merit Scholars in the spring. The program awards three types of National Merit scholarships: 2500 National Merit Scholarships of $2500, approximately 1000 corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarships, and 4100 collegesponsored Merit Scholarships. Commended Students Twenty-five USCHS seniors were recognized as Commended Students in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship program. Benjamin Bacdayan, Atharva Barve, Gabriella Brubach, Anish Chigurupati, Antara Cleetus, Zhenru Fang, Taylor Finkelstein, Daniela Gibbons, Reshma Gudla, Eileen Guo, Alexander Happ, Bryce Keating, Benjamin Lang, Andrew Levy, Brianna Lin, Lucas Manalo, Rohan Mishra, Jack Myers, Madeline Nolen, Alyssa Robert, Ryan Sarkett, Shilp Shah, Grace Suter, Justin Yu, and Henry Zou scored in the top three percent of the more than 1.5 million students who completed the 2019 Preliminary SAT, the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last October. “We’re very excited to celebrate the academic accomplishment of our 25 Commended Students,” said Dr. Wagner. “Earning this recognition is no easy feat. We applaud them for their hard work and tenacity.” These students join approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. n For more information about the National Merit Scholarship program, visit: www.nationalmerit.org.

Surveying Students About COVID-19 Bria Zegarelli, USCHS Junior and USC TODAY Intern Even after enduring quarantine this past summer, students are still adjusting to the drastic changes made to their lifestyles due to COVID-19, especially now that most students have chosen USC’s hybrid school schedule. These overwhelming circumstances have tremendously impacted students’ extracurriculars. Events and opportunities have been limited, and almost all interactions have been virtual. Specifically wanting to focus on how non-athletic activities have been affected, I asked USC teenagers to share their experiences. Countless procedures are in place to provide District students and employees with the best safety features possible. Students reported that at jobs and activities, the two most universal safety measures have obviously been socially distancing by six feet and wearing facemasks. Teenagers are also required to fill out health surveys, take their temperatures, wash their hands, and/or sanitize surrounding areas before completing any tasks. Students who lifeguarded at USC’s Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) pools talked about how they used resuscitation bags instead of resuscitation masks. Employees sanitized all of their equipment and chairs before and after use, and online signup was required for guests who came to swim. Teens who worked at the C&RC explained that the jobs were somewhat easier due to capacity restrictions. The building was not crowded. For independent jobs like babysitting, working is a challenge. Since more people are at home, there are fewer business opportunities for students. Arts activities for high school students, including band, orchestra, and choir, have very strict rules. The high school choirs must sing outside and wear masks at all times. The students explained that these limitations increase the difficulty for rehearsing and arranging songs since the entirety of each choir cannot be together in the same place at the same time. Choir students stated that because of lagging on Google Meet, they have to mute their microphones and, therefore, cannot hear their classmates when rehearsing. This inconvenience causes complications when learning new songs because the students have trouble following along with the music. Additionally, band students stated that masks created immense difficulty during rehearsals. They said that standing in the outdoor heat (they are not allowed to practice indoors) for multiple hours while wearing masks was quite arduous. According to the surveyed band members, the largest burden was the fact that their shows were delayed or altered several times due to Pennsylvania’s changing COVID-19 guidelines. Junior Mentoring, a program at the high school where

a select group of juniors mentor the freshmen students, looks different this year, as well. For instance, training was online only to comply with the restrictions. Usually, the mentoring students attend a summer camp where they build teamwork skills and grow relationships with one another. Students explained that the camp cancellation this year was extremely disappointing and the mentoring tasks were more challenging. For example, the mentoring meetings that were held virtually this year made making connections with the freshmen much more difficult. For students in clubs or volunteer activities, their main concern was learning how to complete their tasks effectively in virtual settings. For instance, a student said that Teen Read, a program at the USC Township Library, was turned into a virtual experience. Instead of interacting with young kids in person, student volunteers were required to record videos or write reviews of books and movies. To add, the president of the GROW (Girls Reaching Out Worldwide) Club explained that fundraising was much more difficult because they could not fundraise in person. In past years, GROW fundraised over the summer months, allowing its members to get a head start on the school year. With the surrounding circumstances this year, club members were and continue to be limited in the amount of projects they can do. When asked if extracurriculars were more challenging than how they were before the pandemic, most students exclaimed “Yes!” The students explained that since the COVID-19 restrictions limit communication with coworkers and peers, tasks took much longer. The USC teenagers said that the most difficult aspects of the changes made in extracurriculars were not being able to connect with people, remembering all the regulations, trying to stay positive, and not being able to plan events. Even though COVID-19 has forced students to alter their lifestyles, they appear to be handling the situation quite maturely. Almost all the surveyed students said that they understand why certain adjustments needed to be made and feel grateful for the opportunity to have jobs and do activities at all. Because of these things, they ultimately do not mind the inconveniences. One student made it a point to say that even though the regulations are hard to comply with, they are completely necessary for everyone’s safety during this time. n

Showcasing all the clubs, USCHS Student Rush was held this past fall, both in person and virtually.

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Aspirations for the Fall Season Amid an Uninspiring 2020 Julia Roeschenthaler, USCHS Junior and USC TODAY Intern With school finally reconvening in While proper COVID practices could Upper St. Clair, the fate of the 2020 fall prove to be a logistical nightmare for sports season remained at the forefront of contact sports, the prospects for certain the minds of countless student-athletes activities, including crew and swimming, and their families across the District. could prove to be slightly more promisCOVID-19 significantly altered the aca- ing. In fact, such sports have already demic and athletic environment at USC, demonstrated their ability to be more causing students to further question “COVID-proof,” according to USC junior how far the coronavirus will stretch in Paige Copenhaver. Paige says that “the its impact on their daily lives. Regardless [crew] coaches are taking lots of measures of COVID-related changes, however, a to separate team members from one anothnumber of students attempted to preserve er and run practices with lower numbers at least some components of their sports’ of students.” Fellow junior Ethan Neal, seasons. who swims for Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics Emily Barrie, a sophomore and (PEAQ) and Upper St. Clair High School, Pantherette at USCHS, is hoping “just is relatively confident in the District’s to have a season.” And while she ac- ability to coordinate COVID-mitigating knowledges that it may be unrealistic for measures, as well. spectators to be present during games and However, Ethan is concerned with the other events, Emily hopes to have some coordination of the statewide championrecognition of the time and energy that ship meet, an event that occurs every year athletes have dedicated to their activities. in March at the end of the season. The Most fall sports teams have been preparing meet, according to Ethan, is an event that for the season since midsummer, engag- the entire team “looks forward to making ing in practices that include temperature and competing at.” And while it is likely screenings, social distancing, and appro- that the organization of such an event is priate mask usage in order to help combat possible even with COVID restrictions, the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Ethan voiced his concern as to whether Emily also voiced her concerns regard- the necessary coronavirus modifications ing the possibility of COVID exposure would drastically change the atmosphere as a result of interaction with students of the meet and the athletes’ participation. from varying school districts, a concern that has been referenced by a number of students. Shivani Jajoo, who trained for the USC field hockey team this past summer, was slightly hesitant to participate because of potential issues related to COVID. Shivani explained that she was not only concerned with the possibility of being exposed to the coronavirus as a result of heightened interaction with larger groups of people, but also with the extreme difficulties associated with physical distancing while playing a contact sport. For example, with field hockey, Shivani mentioned that Girls field hockey enjoyed a being physically close to someone somewhat mitigated fall sports is part of the “nature of the sport,” season due to COVID-19 restrictions. which therefore makes social distancing difficult, if not impossible, during a typical game. 40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

COVID-19 restrictions have undoubtedly changed the atmosphere of life itself, from limited occupancy in grocery stores to completely remote classes at many public schools and universities. The restrictions are, of course, necessary, regardless of their effect on the normalcy of daily activities, but it is indisputable that they have impacted how ordinary tasks are undertaken and the associated feelings they evoke. Regardless of how the face of sports changed at Upper St. Clair this fall and beyond, most students are hoping that the social component of athletics will be preserved to the greatest extent possible. As senior Owen Mann put it, “It’s really about the people.” Owen, who runs cross country, voiced his appreciation for being able to interact with his teammates, even with restrictions in place. He declared that he was happy the District was at least “doing something,” especially since the 2020–21 season will be his last at Upper St. Clair. While Owen described his feelings towards the 2020 fall season as “bittersweet,” partially because of the restricted nature of athletics, he also emphasized “safety first,” and repeatedly acknowledged the importance of safe activity practices. Indeed, if every athlete approaches COVID-19 measures within athletics with a positive, safety-first perspective, it is more than likely that the 2020–21 sports seasons will occur in a manner that not only protects and engages students across the District, but more effectively prepares Upper St. Clair for any future health-related obstacles. n

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USC Postpones 2020 Halls of Fame

The Upper St. Clair School District postponed the 2020 Halls of Fame induction class and corresponding events until fall 2021. Next year, the District will recognize two induction classes, 2020 and 2021, during the annual event. “While we highly value our Halls of Fame program and the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of our alumni, current restrictions due to COVID-19 make hosting the event this fall impossible,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, Upper St. Clair High School principal and co-chair of the Halls of Fame committee. “We look forward to welcoming and recognizing our 2020 and 2021 inductees next fall.” Founded in 2000, the Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame honors those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate, or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. n The annual Halls of Fame event is co-chaired by Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal and USC alumnus, and Gordon Mathews, school counselor, coordinator of alumni relations, and USC alumnus.

Watch USC Athletics Live Online Upper St. Clair Panther fans can watch high school athletics via live stream. Visit uscsd.tv to view home athletic events at the high school stadium, Boyce athletic field, and high school gymnasium. Links to live streams for away events will be posted to the site when available. Live streaming initially provided a solution to gathering restrictions due to COVID-19. However, the benefits have been immeasurable and the idea is to continue with this project. “The live video feeds have enabled extended family members, friends, and alumni from all over the world to watch our athletes compete,” said Dr. Kevin Deitrick, director of athletics. “Especially as we welcome cooler temperatures and inclement weather, many are grateful for the opportunity to watch their grandchildren and others from the comfort of their homes.” In addition to providing live action, uscsd.tv features previously recorded games and matches. n For more information, including schedules, visit the School District’s athletic website, upperstclairathletics.com. Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

PTC Council Kerstin Goodworth, President Parenting has always been hard, but the challenges we are facing this year have taken the difficulty to a whole new level. As parents, we have emails to sort through, class participation to monitor, meltdowns to contend with, food to prepare, houses to keep organized, kids to keep on track, emotional needs to meet, and complicated schedules to juggle. I have two remote learners at home (a third grader and a seventh grader), and every day comes with its own new “adventures.” Some days are just really hard. It’s particularly important at those moments to remember that we are good enough (for thoughts on acknowledging we are good enough, check out my opening day video: https://youtu.be/ I9QpCe34SWs) and that we are not alone! I’ve been inspired by the amazing parents here in USC who I get to work with and be friends with, and more than once, they’ve helped keep me going. That is where the idea of #UnitedStClair came from. We wanted a chance to celebrate every part of the community, starting with the parents, the students, and the caretakers, and extending to the hard-working teachers, administration, and staff at our schools. So, we encourage you all to take the small step as part of this amazing community to hang a simple sign on your door or window to show support for our unity. We can and will get through these challenging times together. I am so honored to be a part of our incredible community. Let’s pledge to keep supporting one another. Link to sign: https://www.uscsd.k12. pa.us/cms/lib/PA01000033/Centricity/ Domain/53/unitedstclair.pdf Link to website: https://www.uscsd. k12.pa.us/domain/53 QR code to website:

High School PTSO Beth Thomas, President USC High School and USC Unity Campaign… “In Perfect Harmony.” When you want to know what’s happening at the high school, it’s best to go right to the source. Ask the students! I 42

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints... had the pleasure recently to interview a few of our high school students who are involved with student council and asked them the following question: “How does the student council’s mission align with the Unity campaign and how does the high school demonstrate that support?” Karsen Damon, student council vice president said, “I’m in charge of Student Rush, where typically all the high school clubs gather, and students go around and sign up for clubs they are interested in. This year, however, we came up with a plan to unite all of our remote and hybrid students. Rush is still happening, but we created a QR code and made a google document to allow all of our students, remote and hybrid, to sign up for clubs.” Abelardo Sobarzo, senior class president said, “Our student council motto, which we operate under, is quite similar to the Unity campaign motto. Student council helps the Township organize USC Community Day every year. This day is very special for the community, and it is a symbol of Upper St. Clair as a unified community. It is one of our main goals to make that day as great as possible.” Samantha Seewald, senior class secretary said, “As a student council, we work to “Unite Voices, Serve the Community, and Commit to Progress,” a goal which is closely related to the Unity campaign's motto of “United we are Standing together as one Community.” One way student council helps USC students stand together as one community is through a weekly newsletter sent out to the student body that includes information about upcoming events in academics, athletics, clubs, and the overall community. Through our newsletter, we reach students within the high school and connect them not only to the school community, but to the greater Upper St. Clair community, as well.” Constantine Tripodes, student council president said, “I think our motto goes hand-in-hand with the newly introduced Unity campaign. In fact, they are very similar. Our goal has always been to “Unite Voices, Serve the Community, and Commit to Progress.” We unite the voices of the students by representing our peers to school administration. We have also set up a Canvas page where students can make suggestions, read about what student council is doing, and basically have a direct conversation with a student council representative. With only half of the student population here each day, it’s Winter 2020

important for us to unite online and spread motivational messages through the various social media accounts we run on Instagram and Twitter.” Constatine continued, “Council serves our community with community events and through fundraisers. These events help to unite the student body and build a strong connection between the high school and the USC community. With things obviously looking very different this year, our main priority has been to compile a list of fun, safe events to keep students motivated and continue our goal of fundraising for worthy causes. Finding creative solutions to problems caused by the pandemic continues to be a way to keep everyone at USCHS united.” Special thanks to USCHS activities coordinator Brooke Tarcson for assisting in arranging the student interviews!

USCHS student council members meet with their sponsor.

Fort Couch PTSO Sian Howell, President The definition of “unity” as described in the Oxford Dictionary is the state of being united or joined as a whole. Right now, these words aptly describe how Upper St. Clair is pulling together. I am proud to be a part of this community; we are proud to be a part of this community. The winter term at Fort Couch is normally awash with activities for the students, which in turn benefits Upper St. Clair. With social events more difficult to arrange in the immediate future, it is falling on the shoulders of the staff and students to inspire and motivate the entire Fort Couch community, reminding us that we’re part of a bigger community—the family of Upper St. Clair. Fort Couch adopts a unique slogan every year for the kids. This year it is “We’re all in this together” (the same theme used in this year’s high school musical). It’s a theme on which to focus discussions

PTC

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

during Fort Family time, and the kids use it as an opportunity to reflect on not only what events used to look like, but also what events can look like in the future. This year, they are having to think outside the box for ways to show support and appreciation to their families and all the staff and support workers in our community. While we want our children to be aware of how important it is to follow rules and to look after each other, it is equally as important for them to remember that childhood should be about spending time with friends and family and having some fun each and every day. We are looking forward to what the future brings! Boyce PTO Andrea Amorose, President The theme at Boyce this year is “We are all in this together,” which encompasses PTC’s expressed Unity campaign of “There is power in unity, and we can get through these challenging times together.” On the first day the staff returned, they were welcomed by numerous signs in the front of Boyce school, thanking them and welcoming them back. The display cases in the main entrance were decorated to include this year’s theme, as well as a comforting reminder of “Wearing is Caring” for all the students to see as they entered the building. Boyce PTO put together a gift for the 2019–20 sixth grade graduates, since they were unable to enjoy a graduation party last spring, which bared the same school theme. With fundraiser money, the PTO purchase playground equipment for each team, including two bins–clean and dirty–to provide safe and distanced play for the students. School obviously looks different this year, but with the dedication and positivity of the administration, teachers, and staff, the students entered their classrooms ready and eager to learn. Throughout the first week back, the students’ schedules included a guidance class, team time, and advisor time. During those periods, students had discussions and participated in social and emotional learning. Academics are important, but so is the mental health of the students. These unprecedented times have been exceedingly difficult in many ways for a lot of us. But by supporting one another to the best of our ability, we really are a community united (#UnitedStClair)!

Baker PTA Jackie Barefoot, President It goes without saying that everyone is adapting and changing to what feels like a new normal, and it may seem easy to get caught up in what we cannot do right now. However, it is during periods of challenge that learning and growing occur at their best. This year has presented the opportunity for the Baker PTA to come together in new ways to serve and support our school, students, and families. Baker PTA has quickly moved into the virtual world of Google Meet and Zoom meetings, which has happily brought more faces to our general meetings. Maintaining communication with families is always important to the PTA, and having the ability to have more people included in the development of ideas and the implementation of bringing more resources to our students and teachers is key. While we are distanced by physical space, we have become united by making the time to meet virtually and work together. The Baker family has always been strong and worked hard each year to bring the traditional fundraisers and events to school that everyone has known and loved. It is refreshing to see many new ideas that have come to light to help make this year just as successful, if not more. The Baker PTA has been putting together a monthly newsletter to help keep everyone informed of upcoming events, spotlight staff members, and attempt to provide more useful communications for families. Upper St. Clair has always been a community generous with their time and resources. Many of the Baker staff members and families also do amazing things outside of the school building by supporting local charities, organizations, and projects. The Baker PTA hopes to secure a record number of volunteers this year to assist in outreach projects that may have personal meaning to Baker staff, students, and families.

Thus far, the most exciting aspect of the Baker PTA’s approach to support the PTC’s “United We Stand as One” initiative is the connections being made with the District’s other five PTAs and PTOs. While each school year the PTAs and PTOs work to achieve similar goals and share ideas with one another, it is not often that we actively plan projects together. This year has presented the opportunity to make some of these ideas real possibilities. It has been a pleasure to work more closely with the other schools and to cheer each other on. It will be exciting to see how many of this school year’s changes will make us stronger and bring us closer together. Eisenhower PTO Kristin LeBeau, President The year 2020 has presented difficult challenges for all of us. These unprecedented times have revealed differing opinions on ways to best address the issues facing our communities. However, despite our differences, we can unite around the fact that we share common goals when it comes to our children and schools. The PTC unity initiative provides the opportunity to demonstrate this power. Eisenhower Elementary has proven through the years that we can do amazing things when we work together. Eisenhower PTO began the year unified in support of our teachers and staff. We provided a welcome back lunch space in the newly configured nutrition center (affectionately known as “Café Ike”). Treated to individually-boxed lunches from Cucina Bella, this was also a great opportunity to support one of the small business in the USC community. PTO further showed its appreciation with a banner and balloons at the entrance to the school that read, “We love our teachers and staff.” Each staff member also received a small gift with a note expressing PTO’s appreciation for their hard work and dedication to our students. A trait consistently encouraged at Eisenhower is “grit.” Students are reminded to use grit when they walk through Eisenhower’s main hallway and see the giant G-R-I-T letters painted on the wall. Teachers and our school’s principal, Mark Miller, encourage students to work toward a goal, persevere, be resilient, and not give up when things are difficult. As parents and as a PTO, we can embrace a spirit of grit this year, too. While the beginning of Cont. on page 44

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints...

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature Cont. from page 43

the 2020–21 school year looks very different than past years, the PTO is working to provide alternative and creative ways to connect classmates, support teachers and our school, and engage with families and the community at large. Together, we’re adjusting activities, exploring possibilities for virtual connections, adapting roles for volunteers, increasing outreach efforts, and taking stock in what’s most important. We’re embracing the power of unity by sharing ideas with the District’s other PTAs and PTOs. The halls of Eisenhower are abuzz again with the laughter of children, the enthusiasm of teachers, and the dedicated efforts of staff. Things look different this year as students greet each other with smiling faces through the grid view of iPad screens, share distanced elbow bumps, and air hugs with teachers. The PTO looks different this year, too. But we look forward to working together with patience, kindness, perseverance, and grit as we “Stand United as One Community” to make this a fantastic year for Eisenhower! Errata Please accept our apologies for an error on page 46 of the fall edition of TODAY. Listed as president of Eisenhower Elementary’s PTO for the 2020–21 school year should have been Kristin LeBeau. See the information below to learn more about Kristin. Name: Kristin LeBeau Spouse: Shane LeBeau Children (ages): Braden (12), Hadley (9), Maren (7) Occupation: Dance educator and choreographer; currently on the dance faculty at Dance Conservatory of Pittsburgh and teaches music and movement classes for students at Westminster Nursery School Hobbies: Running, yoga, attending kids’ sports and activities, volunteering at Eisenhower Elementary and Westminster Church

Streams PTO Michelle Holzer, President Going into the 2020–21 school year, we knew there would be challenges. We knew this school year would look unlike any other in recent history. Yet, we also knew that we could overcome obstacles if we came together for a common purpose. That is the textbook definition of unity: the state of being joined together for a common purpose. So, when the opportunity presented itself to support the PTC’s #UnitedStClair initiative and show that “United We are Standing Together as a Community,” the Streams PTO was certainly up to the task. We’ve united as a community early in this school year in so many ways! First, PTO sponsored a card and artwork drive for the Streams staff. It was a fun project that brought our Streams families together to show support for the school’s teachers and staff. Additionally, we’ve leaned on one another as we’ve adapted our typical meetings and events by going virtual. Though none of us were experts at using tools like Google Meet and Zoom, we came together, learned from each other, and successfully facilitated a number of virtual meetings. The New Family Welcome meeting was well attended, and it was a great way of welcoming many new faces to the Streams community. Now that the general PTO meetings are being held virtually, we are excited to see new attendees participating, as well. While these new circumstances have presented many new challenges for all of us, they have also encouraged more collaboration and brainstorming among our PTO members and families. We’ve necessarily questioned status quo, brainstormed in new ways to do things, and executed our plans in completely different ways. In many aspects, it has brought us closer together, and we look forward to what the rest of this year brings! Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the retirement of Streams’ principal, Dr. Claire Miller (see page 34 for an article). She has been an incredible guiding light for our students, our families, and our PTO. Following along in our theme of unity, I can say with certainty that we are all united in our feelings about her absence. We miss her tremendously, but we wish her all the happiness that she deserves in her retirement! n

Kristin LeBeau 44

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

Speech & Debate

Rushikesh Kulkarni This past June, USCHS student Rushikesh Kulkarni earned the school’s highest finish ever at the NSDA national Speech & Debate tournament, placing eighth in the International Extemporaneous Speaking event. Rushikesh’s performance automatically qualified him to compete in next year’s national tournament as a semifinalist. Originally planned for Albuquerque, New Mexico, the national tournament was moved to an online format due to COVID-19. Debate, Congress, and Extemporaneous Speaking rounds were performed live. Speech rounds were recorded the prior week, and judges from around the country evaluated them as if they were live. In a speech event, an octofinalist ranks in the top 60 nationally, a quarterfinalist in the top 30, and a semifinalist in the top 14. The Public Forum Debate team of Yash Jajoo and Devan Ekbote ended their high school careers with a break to the third day of competition, finishing in the top 100, in what is typically the most competitive event in Speech & Debate. Annika Chaves also advanced to the Dramatic Interpretation octofinals in her second career nationals break. Annika added a terrific run in Poetry Reading, her supplemental event, in quarterfinals. Basir Khan was the last debater standing from the team graduating in 2020. He went undefeated on the first day of supplemental Extemporaneous Debate and competed for more than 16 hours in two days to finish 6–2 in the largest event at NSDA Nationals to finish in the top 30. Maddie Nolen took advantage of the time off from school this past spring to prepare three different supplemental events in addition to her main event, Humorous Interpretation. Maddie advanced to octofinals in Prose and Storytelling, and semifinals in Prepared Prompt Speaking, finishing ninth overall. Antara Cleetus took a similar path to success, equaling Maddie’s semifinal appearance in Prepared Prompt Speaking, finishing 14th. Also qualifying for Nationals were Matt Hornak, Vivek Babu, Samuel Levy, and Dev Patel. n The USCHS Speech & Debate Team is coached by teachers Ben Edwards, social studies; Dave Watson, English; and Kate Shuey, social studies; as well as Ben Stalnaker and Reed Karsh.

USCHS Students Named AP Scholars The College Board announced that 114 Upper St. Clair High School students earned the designation of AP Scholar, including 14 National AP Scholars and one AP International Diploma. These students earned recognition for their exceptional achievement in the college-level Advanced Placement Program in 2020. “Advanced Placement is widely recognized as among the most rigorous coursework available to high school students,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal. “To have such a high number of students choose this challenge and to excel is a testament to their commitment to learning and personal growth. Our students and their teachers are to be commended for this outstanding academic achievement.” In May 2020, 386 USCHS students completed 733 AP exams in 22 subjects, earning an 85% pass rate. AP tests are scored 1–5, and students must earn a 3 or higher to pass and possibly qualify for college credit. (Colleges and universities have independent policies regarding awarding credits for AP courses.) Fourteen students were named National AP Scholars and AP Scholars with Distinction for earning an average grade of at least 4 on all AP exams taken and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more exams. Recognized for this achievement, the highest honor offered by the College Board were 2020 USCHS graduates Carly Abraham, Sarah Besser, Julia Brubach, Jason Choi, Aaron Hall, Eri Hayakawa, Katherine Hobart, Vivian Li, Soudip Sen, Zachary Smith, and Braden Yates; and USCHS seniors Christian Chiu, Harrison Chui, and Richa Mahajan. In addition, Vivian Li earned an AP International Diploma, a certificate awarded to students who display exceptional achievement across a variety of disciplines. Students must score a 3 or higher on five or more AP exams from at least four content areas. The AP International Diploma is available to international students attending secondary schools outside the U.S. and to U.S. high school students applying to universities outside the country. Vivian is now attending the Murray Edwards College–University of Cambridge in London. Thirty-six additional students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. To qualify, students must earn an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. The list of honorees includes 2020 USCHS graduates Vivek Babu, Tyler Berger, Sunny Chai, Claire Chen, Samantha DiGiorgio, Devan Ekbote, Mitchell Friday, Aidan Gordley, Matthew Hornak, Mathena Jencka, Liam Jorgenson, Nisarg Kalra, Suemin Lee, Kathleen McCurrie, Meghan Michener, Benjamin Nelson, Benjamin Pribanic, Alexander Shaw, Anika Sinha, Madeline Takos, Ellie Tetrick, Chand Vadalia, Emmeline Wetzel; and USCHS seniors Sujay Banerjee,

Atharva Barve, Richard Carlson, Anish Chigurupati, Reshma Gudla, Andrew Levy, Katherine Li, Lucas Manalo, John Mologne, Jack Myers, Sophia Shi, Justin Yu, and Henry Zou. Twenty-four USCHS students earned recognition as AP Scholars with Honor by earning an average score of 3.25 or higher on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. USCHS’s AP Scholars with Honor include 2020 USCHS graduates Eden Auslander, Francesca Belack, Rebekah Chikuni, Elinor Connor, Jordan Holleran, Dylan Jenny, Zackary Kingseed, Mark Krolczyk, Aaron Mehta, James Metzger, Justin Pacella, Isabella Putorti, Prathiksha Sivakumar, Sara Steve, Ashwini Walavalkar, and Jacob Yakima; USCHS seniors Benjamin Bacdayan, Bryce Keating, Kyle Ralyea, Ishaan Shah, and Constantine Tripodes; and USCHS juniors Eden Ma, Daniel Wang, and Shanning Zhou. Forty USCHS students earned the distinction of AP Scholar by earning scores of 3 or higher on three or more exams. AP Scholars include 2020 USCHS graduates Lenley Aikin, Sneha Bhalodia, Kyle Chen, Peyton Corona, Samuel Dvorin, Ahiri Ghosh, Juliana Gianni, Matthew Hyatt, Yash Jajoo, Keith Kerber, Abdullah Khan, Owen Knight, Casey Liang, Justin Maglin, Jacob Manko, Emma Mertz, Ella Neal, Paige Roeschenthaler, Vianna Shiry, Steven Smith, Brock Sollie, and Alexis Wehrle; USCHS seniors Sydney Brown, Franco D’Amico, Zhengru Fang, Eileen Guo, Alexander Happ, Patrick Joyce, Donovan Kohler, Shay McDowell, Claudia Ng, Alyssa Robert, Ryan Sarkett, Samantha Seewald, Jason Zhang, and Veronica Zhang; and USCHS juniors Sophie Chen, Varun Damarla, Saif Durrani, and Arunprakash Vasudevan. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while in high school, and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP exams. USCHS currently offers 22 AP courses, including AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature and Composition, AP World History, AP U.S. History, AP Comparative Government and Politics, AP U.S. Government and Politics, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP Psychology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, AP Chinese Language, AP Spanish Language, AP Music Theory, and AP Computer Science A. According to the College Board, AP students are more likely than their peers to complete college within four years and students who take AP exams say it makes them feel more confident and prepared for college. n

USC’s O’Leary Named Positive Athlete Kelsey O’Leary, USCHS senior, was selected as the 2020 Western Pennsylvania Positive Athlete Award winner for girls’ volleyball. The program, in its ninth year, honors one student-athlete from each sport, as well as two multi-sport athletes, two coaches, and one school per school year. The organization accepts nominations for the awards, which are given to athletes “who have overcome difficult circumstances, given back to their schools and communities, or just have an infectious positive attitude.” A standout volleyball player, Kelsey earned third team All-Section honors. For the last two years, she has coordinated the team’s Volley for a Cause efforts, raising more than $4000 to benefit the Children’s Cancer Research Fund and the Miracle League of the South Hills. In addition to volleyball, Kelsey is a member of the National Honor Society and has participated in ski club. She has served as a volunteer for the Upper St. Clair STEAM Camp, USC Community Day, and within the District’s elementary and middle schools. In honor of her late grandfathers, Kelsey participates in the annual Wreaths Across America event at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Positive Athlete Pittsburgh was created as a movement to “promote the benefits of positivity to student-athletes and requires essential characteristics of a positive athlete, including optimistic attitude, servant leader, admits imperfections, puts team first, encouraging teammate, heart for others, and always gives 100%.” Four other USCHS student-athletes (all members of the Class of 2020) received 2019–20 Positive Athlete nominations, including Ryan Junko for volleyball and football, Sara Steve for golf and basketball, Paige Stevenson for softball, and Grace Swigart for softball. n

Winter 2020

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• Convenient appointment hours, including Saturday mornings • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted

www.drtroysmiles.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Commissioners

Township Administration

Mark D. Christie President Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

R E S I D E N T I A L

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Daniel R. Paoly Vice President At-Large

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

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2021*

Dante R. Plutko, Jr. Ward 1

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-389-5187 2023*

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

Pamela L. Enck Ward 2

G U I D E

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

—

Ronald J. Pardini

T O W N S H I P

Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2023*

Rex A. Waller At-Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-5085 2023*

www.twpusc.org All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings 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. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Other Services Police–Administration...............412-833-1113 Tri-Community South EMS Administration...........................412-831-3710 USC Volunteer Fire Department Administration...........................412-835-0660 Animal Control.........................412-833-7500 Community & Recreation Center...................412-221-1099 Cable 7.......................................412-831-1030 Emergency– Police, Fire, EMS....................412-833-7500

2020–2021 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

*Date indicates expiration of term.

To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions. Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski......................... 2160 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield.................................. 2190 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton.................................. 2380 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito....................................... 2180 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni..................................... 5010 Director of Planning & Community Development George Kostelich, Jr................................ 2710 Director of Public Works Christian Gmiter.................................... 2470 Director of Library Paul Besterman....................................... 6560 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2023*

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

• 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. • The Library Board meets as needed.

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The Township of Upper St. Clair 1820 McLaughlin Run Road • 412-831-9000 • www.twpusc.org

Municipal Building

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

Township Manager

Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 2160 The Township Manager is appointed by the Board of Commissioners and is directly responsible and accountable to the Board. He serves as Chief Administrative Officer and is responsible for the administrative functions of the Township. The Township Manager and his designated representatives, including Assistant Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield, are responsible for directing and supervising the operation of all Township departments; preparing an annual budget and financial report; signing papers, contracts, obligations, and documents on behalf of the Township as required by law; preserving order in the Township; representing the Township to other governmental organizations and agencies; and providing staff assistance to the elected Board of Commissioners. The Township Manager oversees the activities of the following eight departments:

Township Board of Commissioners Mark D. Christie, President, Ward 4 Daniel R. Paoly, Vice President, At Large Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Ward 1 Rex A. Waller, At Large

Department of Finance

Mark P. Romito, Director of Finance 412-831-9000, ext. 2180 • Tax Office: 412-831-9000, ext. 2260 The Department of Finance is responsible for all fiscal concerns of the Township, including budget preparation, expenditure control, financial reporting and projecting, insurance management, debit management, property and inventory control, purchasing, investment of funds, and operation of the Tax Office. The Township Tax Office collects taxes for both the Township and the School District. The Township budget is prepared each fall for the subsequent fiscal year, which runs from January 1 to December 31.

Department of Police

Jonathan Wharton, Chief of Police Emergency: 412-833-7500 Administration (non-emergency): 412-833-1113 The Police Department is responsible for ensuring public safety and for the enforcement of the laws of the Commonwealth Department of Administration of Pennsylvania and the laws and ordinances of the Township. Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager The 24-hour dispatch center coordinates all emergency services, and Director of Administration including police, fire, and emergency medical services (ambu412-831-9000, ext. 2190 lance). The Police Department provides patrol squads dedicated The Department of Administration is responsible for to neighborhood and business patrols, vacation home checks, personnel administration, purchasing, labor relations and ne- criminal investigations, fingerprint services, and more. The Police gotiations, public relations, community communications and Department also sponsors a Citizens’ Police Academy each fall. cable television franchising matters, office management, records maintenance and retrieval, in-service training programs, and Department of Information Technology coordination of grant applications. 412-831-9000 The Department of Information Technology is responsible Department of Planning for the computer needs of all Township departments. The and Community Development Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) provides residents with Adam A. Benigni, Director of Planning and agendas and meeting minutes; downloadable applications and Community Development permits; trash and recycling information; calendars providing 412-831-9000, ext. 5010 Township, school, and community events; bi-annual recreation The goal of the Department of Planning and Community booklets; UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine; board and comDevelopment is to protect the property values and residential mission information; and public access television broadcasting. character of the Township. Development of the community is guided by the Township Comprehensive Plan, which is prepared Public Access Television every ten years, most recently in 2015. This department admin- 412-831-1030 Upper St. Clair Public Access Television, under the isters and enforces land use codes and issues permits for zoning, building, electrical, fire protection, driveways, sewers, alarms, Department of Information Technology, provides an opgrading, and street openings. Additionally, the staff provides portunity to share information and events with Township assistance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, residents. Programs are produced by volunteers using equipment that can be provided by the channel. Programming is and Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board. shown on Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42. Programs are also available from the Township’s video gallery, twpusc.org/video-gallery. Cont. on page 50

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Cont. from page 49

R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — T O W N S H I P

There is also the community bulletin board Video Newspaper. It displays information and meeting announcements for a variety of Township activities, community groups, and churches. Announcements should be submitted by email to USCCABLE@twpusc.org. Training and access to production equipment can be provided to those interested in producing a program for the community. Call the Public Access Television number to promote an event or organization and its activities.

Department of Recreation and Leisure Services

Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services 412-221-1099, ext. 6560 The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is responsible for recreation programming and activities for residents of all ages. A program booklet is published twice a year, in April (spring/ summer programs) and September (fall/ winter programs), and delivered to all residents. The booklet can also be viewed online at www.twpusc.org. Registration for various programs can be conducted by mail, online, or in person during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can also contact the Recreation office to reserve Township facilities, including the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) and the Community and Recreation Center (C&RC) for parties, special events, and meeting rooms, or check on the availability of Township fields. The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services is located at the C&RC at Boyce Mayview Park, 1551 Mayview Road. The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services also offers a senior c i t i z e n s p ro g r a m ( U n i t e d S e n i o r Citizens of Upper St. Clair), which provides Wednesday luncheons and programs for all residents 55 years of age and older.

Department of Library

Chris Gmiter, Director of Library 412-835-5540, ext. 2240 The Upper St. Clair Township Library is located on the second and Library third floors of the Township Municipal Building and is normally open Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays during the school year from 1 to 5 p.m. The library collection of approximately 70,000 circulating items includes books, audio books, music, and movies for all ages. The kids’ department of the library also lends puzzles and has a “Play to Learn” area filled with educational toys to foster math and literacy skills as well as eye-hand coordination and imagination. An “Explore to Learn” center features STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities appropriate for elementary school children. Online resources include e-books, downloadable audio and video, and online databases. As a member of the Allegheny County eiNetwork, the library participates in the shared County Catalog, which library patrons can access from the website. Requested materials can be sent from and picked up at any public library in Allegheny County. The library has computer workstations with high-speed Internet access and Microsoft office software and also provides free wireless access for laptop users. Fax service, test proctoring, and 3D printing are available for a small fee. A variety of programs and classes, listed on the library website (twpusc.org) are offered throughout the year for both children and adults. Use materials and share services with others during programs and classes, and connect to a world of information. Use, share, and connect at the Upper St. Clair Township Library, your community resources center. Check out the library on Facebook and Twitter. (For more information, see pages 53–57.)

Department of Public Works

George Kostelich, Jr., Director of Public Works 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 The Public Works Department is responsible for the management and supervision of all activities relating to streets, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, trash collection, recycling, leaf and yard waste collections, parks and recreation facility maintenance, building and grounds maintenance, and forestry. An annual trash and recycling schedule is mailed to residents at the end of each calendar year for the coming year. The schedule is also available on the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org).

USC’s Recreational Facility Community & Recreation Center (C&RC)

1551 Mayview Road • 412-221-1099 Located in the active area of Boyce Mayview Park, the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) offers indoor/ outdoor aquatics, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group fitness rooms, 1/8 mile running/walking track, two fullsize basketball courts, and rentable community rooms. In addition, throughout the year the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services offers programs to improve the quality of life for residents of all ages—pre-schoolers to seniors and all ages in between. (See program and offerings information on pages 58–60.) 50

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Public Works

Accessibility Coordinators

The Township of Upper St. Clair has five accessibility coordinators to further enhance all visitors’ access to Township facilities, parks, trails, and programs. The accessibility link is found on the Township’s homepage under Quick Links and will take the visitor to detailed accessibility information. Currently, the Township of Upper St. Clair’s accessibility coordinators are • Jeremy Lemley, Buildings/Grounds Administrator (for all Township buildings): 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 • Ed Poljak, (for Township website and phone system): 412-831-9000 • Christian Gmiter, Director of Library: 412-835-5540, ext. 2240 • Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator: 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 • Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services (for all recreation activities): 412-221-1099, ext. 6560

Other Services in the Township Animal Control

412-833-7500 The Township participates in a joint animal control program with neighboring communities. Officers are on duty seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with 24-hour emergency ser vice. Clair’s Kennel, along McLaughlin Run Road, provides a temporary home for wandering pets. Residents should call the police department for animal control services, including animals running at large, injured or killed animals, and animal nuisance calls.

Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Services

Emergency: 412-833-7500 Office (non-emergency): 412-831-3710 Upper St. Clair Township participates in a jointly-operated emergency medical services program with the Township of South Park and the Municipality of Bethel Park. This program provides emergency ambulance transport by highly trained and state-licensed medical personnel. Each fall, an annual subscription drive is held. For a nominal fee, the entire household and household visitors are provided with emergency ambulance coverage when emergency transport is needed. Tri-Community South does not receive direct subsidies from the Township, nor does it receive any revenue from the Local Services Tax, formerly t h e E m e rg e n c y a n d Municipal Services Tax. (See page 64 for more information.) Tri-Community South EMS

Clair’s Kennel

Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department

Emergency: 412-833-7500 Office (non-emergency): 412-835-0660 Since 1939, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department has been responsible for fire protection, rescue service, and other emergency assistance for the Township. The primary fire station along Route 19 provides an efficient and safe building for preparing and responding to emergency events. The USC VFD also answers calls for hazardous materials incidents, vehicle rescue, and mutual aid assistance to fire departments in surrounding communities. In addition, the USC VFD conducts an extensive fire prevention program, including fire safety talks in the schools, tours of the fire stations, and fire extinguisher training for local businesses. Each May, a letter is sent to residents and businesses asking for donations. The USC VFD does not solicit funds by telephone. Please support this invaluable all-volunteer service.

Appointed Boards and Commissions of Upper St. Clair In addition to the elected Board of Commissioners, Upper St. Clair residents comprise

appointed boards and commissions. Residents wishing to serve on a board or commission should submit a Talent Bank form that is available from the Township Manager’s Office or download the form from the Township’s website (www.twpusc.org). In the event of a vacancy, the Talent Bank forms identify residents interested in volunteering their time and expertise. The following persons, listed alphabetically and with their respective December 31 year of expiration, are citizens who currently serve on Township boards or commissions.

Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board Glenn Avick ........................................ 2022 Denis C. Flaherty ............................... 2022 Michael P. McDonnell.......................... 2022 David J. McLean, Vice Chair ............... 2020 Anthony L. Pitassi, Chair..................... 2021 Robert T. Stevens, Jr............................ 2020

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Kelly B. Bakayza.................................. 2023 William O. Barnard, Vice Chair........... 2020 Thomas Browand................................ 2020 Jason Graves ....................................... 2021 Roger Hartung, Chair.......................... 2023 Diane Morris....................................... 2020 Matthew Weaver.................................. 2021

Civil Service Board Neal Holmes, Secretary....................... 2021 P.J. Murray, Chair................................ 2022 Shon Worner....................................... 2020

Planning Commission Todd Burlingame, Vice Chair............... 2023 Jake Polochak, Secretary..................... 2022 David Sirota ....................................... 2020 Kimberly Smith................................... 2021 Robert W. Stevenson............................ 2022 Robin Weissert.................................... 2021 David Wade, Chair.............................. 2022

Library Board Joann Hockenberry............................. 2021 Robert G. Ontolchik............................ 2022 Barbara Zimmt.................................... 2020

Zoning Hearing Board Anderson T. Bailey............................... 2021 Dwight D. Ferguson, Chair................. 2022 Steven Gibbs....................................... 2022 Justin W. Hollingsworth...................... 2020 Gregg R. Zegarelli, Vice Chair.............. 2020

USC Volunteer Fire Department

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R E S I D E N T I A L G U I D E — T O W N S H I P

Directory of Important Numbers Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency

412-833-7500 Township Offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday

Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 2160 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 5010 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 2260 Recreation – 412-221-1099 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 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 District Judge Ronald Arnoni 412-835-1661 League Of Women Voters 412-261-4284 Post Office – 1-800-275-8777 School District – 412-833-1600 South West Communities Chamber of Commerce – 412-221-4100 Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556 Three-Hole Golf Course 412-831-7556 Utilities & Services

Comcast Cable Communications Sales, Service, and Billing 1-800-266-2278 Columbia Gas Company 724-416-6300 People’s Natural Gas Company 412-395-3050 First Energy – 1-888-544-4877 PA American Water Company 1-800-565-7292 Verizon – 1-800-VERIZON (837-4966) 52

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Board of Commissioners’ Meetings July 6, 2020

September 8, 2020

Approximately 6 people attended.

Approximately 12 people attended.

The Board • Tabled Recommendation Re. PLC20-0004–Woodshire Estates–Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on August 3, 2020. • Adopted Resolution No. 1688 authorizing the proper Township Officials to execute a Right-Of-Way Grant Agreement with Verizon Pennsylvania, Inc. • Approved the following reappointment and appointment to various Boards and Commissions: Civil Service Board–three-year term P.J. Murray III Planning Commission–four-year term Robin Weissert (new appointment, half-year term, expires 2020)

Recognition • Commissioner Enck presented a Proclamation to the USCHS Odyssey of the Mind Division II Problem Performance Team for their first-place win at World Finals, held virtually in May 2020. The Board • Adopted Bill No. 7-20 denying the application Re. PLC20-0004–Woodshire Estates–Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval. • Tabled Public Hearing Re. PLC20-0005 Hastings Village Plan Rev. No. 2–Amended Tentative and Final Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on October 5, 2020. • Approved the following appointments to various Boards and Commissions of the Township of Upper St. Clair: Municipal Authority–five-year term Nicholas J. Seitanakis (new appointment, partial-year term, expires 2021) Park and Recreation Advisory Board–three-year term Jason Graves (new appointment, partial-year term, expires 2021) Planning Commissioner–four-year term David Sirota (new appointment, partial-year term, expires 2020) • Adopted Resolution No. 1691 Re. Appointment of Justin W. Hollingsworth to the Zoning Hearing Board of the Township of Upper St. Clair.

August 3, 2020

Approximately 24 people attended.

At 7 p.m., the Honorable Ronald A. Arnoni conducted a ceremony in which newly appointed Commissioner Pamela L. Enck was sworn into office as Commissioner of Ward 2 of the Township of Upper St. Clair. The Board • Tabled Recommendation Re. PLC20-0004–Woodshire Estates–Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on September 8, 2020. • Tabled Public Hearing Re. PLC20-0005 Hastings Village Plan Rev. No. 2–Amended Tentative and Final Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting on September 8, 2020. • Adopted Resolution No. 1689 to establish the Public Hearing date of November 2, 2020 Re. PLC201301–Zoning Map Amendment for Rezoning of 169 McMurray Road from R-2 Suburban Residential District to C-2 Highway Commercial District. • Adopted Resolution No. 1690 Re. 2021–2025 Capital Improvement Program.

Odyssey of the Mind student members and coaches were recognized by Commission Enck (right) for their first place performance.

Left to right: Mark Christie, Pamela Enck, Judge Ronald Arnoni

USC Township Talent Bank The Township of Upper St. Clair accepts talent bank applications from resident volunteers to serve on the following: Library Board, Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, and Building & Fire Codes Appeals & Advisory Board. A list of current volunteers is included in the residents’ guide on page 51. Board of Commissioners president Mark Christie says that the Township is privileged to have such great candidates and is fortunate to be able to use their talents serving on the various boards and commissions. If you are interested in serving our community, visit the Township website at www.twpusc.org or the municipal building reception area for a talent bank inventory form and return it to Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. n Winter 2020

From the Director’s Desk Christian Gmiter, Library Director

Greetings residents, patrons, and library supporters!

In this issue, you’ll find a number of recommended titles from our knowledgeable and well-read staff at the Upper St. Clair Township Library. If you’re staying indoors as the days get shorter and the temperatures get colder, then consider checking out one of the books or series of books mentioned in the “Hot Reads for Cold Nights” featured on page 56. In the last issue of TODAY, I discussed emerging technologies and how they related to the changes in the library’s programming strategy as brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. Over the summer, the Kids’ Library staff became experts at using Zoom to deliver storytimes and programs to children. It was a fun and enjoyable experience for all parties involved and it was met with a considerable amount of positive feedback. Due to the success of live Zoom events coupled with the absence of in-person programs, the Kids’ staff has worked to continue and expand the online endeavors. The momentum for online video conferencing continues, as you’ll see below. Self-checkout kiosk Fun and interactive virtual programs geared for young people ranging in age from babies to teenagers will be rolled out. Some of these programs include Babies and Toddlers Rhyme Time; Zoom Zoom Rhymes and Songs for Little Ones; Preschool Storytime; and Listen, Learn, and Create activities. Activities for teenage patrons include Zoom Teen Game Night, Zoom Teen Book Night, and Zoom Teen Art Night. Check the library website at http://www.twpusc.org/library/library-home or call the library at 412-835-5540 for any updates to registration and program times or questions that you might have. With the hope that adult programming can begin a gradual resurgence, much like youth programming, it will take the form of a live streamed online platform at the outset. The adult programming offerings had been quite robust before the shutdown, and the library intends to build upon the previous success by retaining former adult program participants, as well as attracting new attendees via interesting, engaging, and entertaining online programs. Again, stay tuned by checking the website or contacting the library by phone to find out what’s in the works. Alterations in the library’s physical space were made earlier this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. We also changed service strategies as necessary. While the library is open for business and has been since July, some of the measures taken to change library services in the interest of patron and staff health safety have proven to be successful and Due to restrictions caused well received. by the COVID-19 pandemic, Email reference questions have been steadily arriving into continue to check the library’s the library’s inbox since early summer. While email correwebsite for hours of operation. spondence between the library and its patrons is certainly not new, we are seeing different types of inquiries than we had Normal USC traditionally received, including readers’ advisory and book Township recommendation questions, library account questions, and Library Hours renewal requests. Most notably, curbside pickup requests are Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m. becoming more frequent. Curbside/parking lot pickup has become ubiquitous since Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, 1–5 p.m. March and may be seen as Outside book and video return a cultural norm that’s been available 24/7. utilized everywhere from grocery stores, to big box stores, Winter Holiday Closures to restaurants. The library • Thanksgiving: Closes at 5 p.m. was quick to adopt curbside Wednesday, November 25; closed pickup this past June. This Thursday, November 26, and service will continue to be Signage in the library to guide the Friday, November 27. flow of patron traffic offered to our patrons for the • Christmas: Closed Thursday, near future. So, if you can’t make it into the library or are short December 24, Friday, December on time, USC Township Library staff will bring materials out 25, and Saturday, December 26. to your parked vehicle. Curbside pickup has been met with a considerable amount of positive feedback and it makes sense • New Year’s: Closes at 1 p.m. for the library to carry on with this system for the time being. Thursday, December 31; closed I hope that you all have a safe and happy winter holiday seaFriday, January 1, 2021. son! Thank you for your patronage and your extraordinary and 412-835-5540 outstanding support of the Upper St. Clair Township Library! n Signs directing where patrons should park and wait for curbside pickup

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www.twpusc.org

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Adaptingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a Way of Life Recently, a young visitor to Upper St. Clair Library innocently asked if a member of the library staff knew that the world had changed. Needless to say, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many changes in the way we live, and the library continues to adapt to this new world. The library continues to make books and other materials available and to offer online classes to kids and families. During surges in the virus, curbside only service was offered as a way to protect our community and staff.

Return all library materials to the outdoor book returns located in the rear of the buildling.

Self-checkout machines are available to minimize person-to-person contact.

Curbside service remains available when the library is open to the public. For curbside service, simply request books, DVDs, and CDs by email, usc1@einetwork.net or by phone, 412-835-5540. You may request specific books or ask the librarians to select books on various subjects, for specific age groups, or by type of book or genre (readers, picture books, graphic novels, mysteries, romance, etc.). Check the library website or call the library for current hours. When the library is open, you are welcome to come in to check out books, DVDs, and CDs.

Adult Floor

A limited number of computers are available for short sessions when the library is open. Signage is visibly placed to direct visitors to various locations and to encourage social distancing. The Patron Hold shelves have been relocated to allow increased social distancing for visitors when picking up reserved items. The New Books area has opened up to allow for safe browsing of the libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newly purchased materials. n

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Library Happenings

All returned items are quarantined for a sufficient amount of time to assure they are safe for use. n

Kid’s Floor

Bookshelves have been separated to

create larger aisles and spaces for library visitors to look for books, while observing social distancing guidelines. n

This past summer, the daily Take & Make activities were a huge hit! Each day, new activity bags were hung on the fence in the municipal playground. Beginning in September, library staff began creating weekly Little Kids Learn Kits designed to highlight literacy skills and early learning concepts. Each kit contains multiple activities. Kits will be hung on the fence as long as weather permits. After that, the Little Kids Learn Kits will be available in the library’s main lobby. Summer Reading 2020 was available online this year. Library staff is planning an online winter reading program with lots of prizes. Watch for details! The Kid’s Floor offers an assortment of online classes, storytimes, and things to do for kids and their families. Many programs are available on the website, Kids Virtual Programming, at http://www.twpusc. org/library/kidsvirtualprogramming. Zoom classes for kids and families are offered regularly. These classes include Babies & Toddlers Rhyme Time, Zoom Zoom Rhymes and Songs for Little Ones, Preschool Storytime, and Listen, Learn and Create for kids in Kindergarten through fourth grade. Check out the website, http://www.twpusc.org/library/kids, or call the library to find out what classes are available.

During the summer, library student volunteers created and hosted online programs for kids, including a Zoom 24 Club and a Zoom Art class. In addition, teens are creating Reader’s Theater and how-to videos for younger kids. Visit the Kids Virtual Programming website and click on the links to Reimagined Readers Theater, Video Tutorials for Kids by Teens, and Musical Instrument Show & Tell to see what the student volunteers have created. Clockwise from top: Share a Skill Video–How to Make a Ninja Star; Share a Skill Video–How to Make Friendship Bracelets; Share a Skill Video–How to Make Pineapple Buns; Video Tutorial– How to Make Slime; Video Tutorial–Charles Law Experiment; Reimagined Readers Theater–The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors; Musical Instrument Show & Tell–Flute.

All tweens and teens programming has moved online. Beginning in September, students in fifth through 12th grades participated in a variety of online activities, including book discussions, game nights, craft/art nights, and more. Other programs, such as online trivia and escape rooms, plus teen-created Share-a-Skill videos are available on the Teens Virtual Programming website at http://www.twpusc.org/ library/Teens, virtual programming. The adult book group, Cozy Up With Books, resumed in September. The women met outside for some lively discussion and companionship, all while maintaining social distancing. To best cater to our patrons while moving forward and remaining safe, the library continues to add more programs and adapt to what is responsibly allowed. n Visit the library’s homepage at http://www.twpusc.org/library/library-home and click on “Library Calendar of Events” for the most up-to-date programming information.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Hot Reads for Cold Nights USC Library staff suggests… • Chief Inspector Armand Gamache Mystery series by Louise Penny The perfect series for these cold winter nights is Louise Penny’s Chief Inspector Armand Gamache Mysteries. These awardwinning character-driven mysteries revolve around Armand Gamache, the thoughtful, intelligent, and patient chief inspector of the provincial police force of Quebec and the small, quirky, hard-to-find town of Three Pines. This idyllic village hides many dark secrets and personal demons for Gamache and its residents. Penny’s carefully crafted mysteries have many twists and turns of a police procedural, but also provide resilient, hopeful, and believable characters. Readers will want to start with the first novel, Still Life.—Maureen Case • Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand (a trilogy) Irene Steele lives the perfect life with her adoring husband, until she gets a call on a cold New Year’s Eve. Her husband has been killed in a helicopter crash off the coast of St. John, Virgin Islands. Irene and her sons make their way to the island where they soon learn that the man they thought they knew has been living a double life. Lots of twists and turns as the story evolves through the three titles: Winter in Paradise, What Happens in Paradise, and Troubles in Paradise.—Deb Conn • The Girl in the Ice by Robert Bryndza The first book in this thriller murdermystery series introduces the reader to Detective Erica Foster. A young woman is discovered beneath the ice in a South London park. As Erica digs into the death of this socialite, connections to three dead prostitutes are made. All have been found dumped in the waters around London. Erica needs for this investigation to end well since her last ended in the death of her husband. This well-written mystery will get you hooked on the book series and the life of Erica Foster.—Sheri Huffman

• One Day in December by Josie Silver Laurie is sure that true love only exists in the movies, until she spots “the one” through a bus window on a snowy December day. Their eyes meet, but they do not. Certain that they are fated to meet again, Laurie spends the next year scanning every café and bus stop in London. Having given up hope on her made-for-movies romance, Laurie reunites with her mystery man when she meets him at a Christmas party. He is her best friend Sarah’s new boyfriend, Jack. What follows is a light-hearted but deep story of love, loss, missed opportunities, and roads not taken.—Colleen Miles • Mrs. Roosevelt’s Confidante by Susan Elia MacNeal It is December 1941. The Japanese have just bombed Pearl Harbor and Winston Churchill has decided he needs to spend Christmas with the Roosevelts. Churchill is desperate to form a strong alliance with the Roosevelts as America enters World War II. Maggie Hope, the American born British spy, is joining Churchill’s entourage, posing as his secretary and typist. This is the fifth installment of this WWII British cozy mystery series. Maggie proves herself invaluable to both Great Britain and America, as she helps Mrs. Roosevelt investigate the murder of her aide. This historical mystery is fast-paced and engaging. It also provides an insight into everyday life during an extraordinary time.—Vanessa Ryzner

• One Thousand and One Nights, also known as The Arabian Nights, retold in modern English by Hanan al-Shaykh Shahryar, the ruler Persia, after learning that his first wife has been unfaithful, decides to marry a different woman every night and execute her in the morning. When he marries Scheherezade, she concocts a plan to end this execution by telling him a story of adventure and daring that is always unfinished in the morning, so that he will be excited to hear the rest the following night. She follows the same pattern of stories for 1001 nights, until Shahryar has a change of heart. The stories she tells Your donation and purchases at the Book Sale Corner make it possible comprise the collection.—Shylu Venkatesh

Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.

for the Friends to sustain the library’s improvements and programs. There are several ways to contribute: • Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or Juvenile Circulation Desk • Mail your check with the attached form to the library Your donation and purchases at the Book Sale Corner make it possible • Visit our website, http://www.twpusc.org/library/friends, to donate online

Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.

for the Friends to sustain the library’s improvements and programs. There are several ways to contribute: • Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or Juvenile Circulation Desk • Mail your check with the attached form to the library • Visit our website, http://www.twpusc.org/library/friends, to donate online

_________________________________________ Name _________________________________________ Address _________________________________________ _________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________ Email

By providing my email address, I agree to receive occasional updates from the Upper St. Clair Library. 56

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Winter 2020

Good Books to Check Out Non-Fiction • Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed by Lori Gottlieb Funny and illuminating account of our own mysterious lives and our power to transform them.

• Kindness and Wonder: Why Mister Rogers Matters Now More than Ever by Gavin Edwards The book is a love letter to this unforgettable cultural hero and the beautiful neighborhood he created.

• T h e B o d y, A G u i d e f o r Occupants by Bill Bryson Full of extraordinary facts and irresistible Bryson-esque anecdotes, The Body will lead you to a deeper understanding of the miracle that is life.

• The Pioneer Woman Cooks: The New Frontier:112 Fantastic Favorites for Everyday Eating by Ree Drummond This book offers a whole new world of “scrumptious” for you to explore!

Fiction • City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert This is a beautiful love story set in the New York City theater world during the 1940s. You’ll laugh, cry, and love every page.

• The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware Agatha Christie junkies will love this similar style and spine-tingling whodunit novel.

• The Dutch House: A Novel by Ann Patchett This richly moving story explores the indelible bond between two siblings, the house of their childhood, and a past that will not let them go.

• The Water Dancer: A Novel by Ta-Nehisi Coates This is a transcendent work that restores the humanity of those from whom everything was stolen. • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides A shocking thriller, murder mystery, and page turner!

• Educated by Tara Westover A heart-wrenching and inspiring true story of the power of education to open eyes and change lives.

Emotions and Feelings Booklist for Young Children Books can be a great way for parents to discuss hard to understand concepts with their kids. Booklists on other social and emotional topics and for other ages are also available at the library and on the library website. The librarians are available to recommend books. • Little Gorilla by Ruth Bornstein Everyone loves little gorilla, even after he grows big. (Ages 2–6) • How Do You Feel? by Anthony Browne Feelings come to life in pictures. (Ages 3–6) • Today I Feel Silly by Jamie Lee Curtis Everyone has feelings that change from day to day. (Ages 3–6)

• Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons by Amy Krouse Rosenthal Learn definitions for words like “cooperate,” “patient,” “proud,” “modest,” “respect,” “fair,” “unfair,” “compassionate,” “pessimistic,” and “optimistic.” (Ages 3–8) • Sometimes I Feel Like a Storm Cloud by Lezlie Evans Kids experience lots of emotions. This book uses easy similes to describe different ones. (Ages 4–6)

Winter 2020

• Penguin Problems by Jory John Everything is a problem to Penguin. It’s too cold, too noisy, too early, and too bright. When he meets a philosophical walrus, he takes a short break from all the negativity. (Ages 4–7) • The Snurtch by Sean Ferrell The Snurtch is Ruthie’s alter ego. He makes himself known when Ruthie is frustrated, angry, or unhappy at school. (Ages 4–7) • Peaceful Piggy Meditation by Kerry Lee MacLean Meditation can help children find a peaceful place. (Ages 4–8) UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Recreation and www.twpusc.org

Falling Forward Since the reopening of the C&RC this past June, the Township’s Department of Recreation and Leisure Services has been pushing ahead to bring members and residents not just normalcy, but opportunity during these challenging times. After providing an outlet for hundreds of children at Camp St. Clair and offering nearly 400 individuals a day a safe space to relax, swim, and socialize at the outdoor pool this summer, the Recreation Department knew it was time to move forward with fall programming. Not knowing how school schedules and state and county mandates and regulations would change over time, the decision was made to divide fall into two sessions: September–October (Session I) and November–December (Session II). The first focused on reintroducing structured programs that utilized the inviting outdoor spaces of Boyce Mayview Park. The later offered enrichment and movement opportunities within the C&RC. Counselor and campers

Color Run

Waterfall hike

Shortly after registration opened for Fall Session I, it was clear that residents and members were ready to move forward. Both T-ball and Hummingbirds Soccer, preschool age sports programs run by Jump Start Sports, had soaring enrollment. Not far behind was Toddler Sports, a movement-based program run by JumpBunch, specifically designed for two-year-old participants. Rounding out the most sought-after programs was Friday Afternoons in the Park, an outdoor program designed to give seniors an opportunity to safely socialize while enjoying nature. As the weather changes, more classes and programs are moving indoors. Look for a variety of enrichment, sports, fitness, and aquatics classes geared towards keeping the mind and body active. As always, safety is top priority, so participants can expect to see extra attention given to cleanliness, social distancing, and small class sizes. n

Fall soccer camp

For more details, and to register for classes and programs, visit the C&RC website at twpusc.org/crc/crc-home. 58

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Leisure Services 412-221-1099

USC’s Golf Course

Amy Kerman, Recreation Department Facility Rentals Coordinator As you traveled along McLaughlin Run Road this summer, you may have noticed a significant uptick in golf activity. Assistant Township Manager Mark Mansfield commented, “It has been great to see the increase in golf play—youngsters with a parent or grandparent and teenage friends having great outdoor fun! Due to COVID-19, golf courses throughout Pennsylvania had to delay opening and modify protocols. Given the circumstances, USC Township initially offered free play, and ultimately extended that concession through the 2020 season. It has made the course a popular spot this summer and fall! Upper St. Clair is one of a few municipalities in Western Pennsylvania that has a municipally owned golf course (be it only three holes)! The course, located at 1750 McLaughlin Run Road, lies between the McLaughlin Activity Center (MAC) and the Municipal tennis courts, across from the Public Works building. Parking is available by the tennis courts. The three holes were initially part of St. Clair Country Club. In the late 1960s, the country club redesigned its golf course, and the Township purchased the 20-acre parcel with the three holes for $125,000. A Pennsylvania “Project 70” grant funded 50% of the purchase. Paul Besterman, director of the Township’s Recreation and Leisure Services Department, says the beauty of the course is that you do not have to be a great golfer. “It is for fun, learning, community, and family. The golf course is an example of how this Township park serves the community and its residents.” Maintaining the golf course takes effort. Tom Welsh, who has been a Township employee with the Public Works (PW) Department for Tom keeps the golf course 20 years, has been the looking its best. primary caretaker of the golf course for the last 17 years, though many others help out. The course is mowed three times a week and watered as needed. There is a sophisticated sprinkler system in place so that watering can be controlled and moniEnjoying the Township’s golf course tored. Tom and the PW crew also maintain the landscape, including trimming and removing trees and planting and weeding the flower beds. Tom, who is not a golfer but says he knows where every bump is on the course, does research on how other courses are maintained. Self-taught, he attended the U.S. Open at Oakmont in 2016 to see how they do it in the “big leagues.”

The course is open from 8 a.m. to dusk in the spring, summer, and fall, weather permitting. Under usual circumstances, golfers are asked to check in and pay at the Tennis A beautiful view down the fairway Golf Administration Building (TGAB). There are restrooms at the TGAB, and a covered porch with round picnic tables are available for use. The fees help support the care and maintenance of the course. Golfers may pay per round or purchase a ten-round punch card (ten three-hole rounds with no expiration date). Payments can be made by credit card or check; cash is not accepted. Punch cards can also be purchased at the Community & Recreation Center. The course is open to USC residents and non-residents. Township Silver Card holders may play at no charge, but must check in at the TGAB before playing. Golfers under the age of ten must play with an adult. Fees were eliminated during the 2020 season to allow for social distancing during the pandemic. There are events that are also held on the golf course. The annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the evening Rotary Club of Bethel-St. Clair and the USC High School Interact Club, with support The annual egg hunt is always from the Recreation popular with residents. Department, kicks off the spring season. There are photo shoots for weddings, proms, and senior pictures, and in the spring, the bridges may be used by Girl Scouts who are bridging to a new level. Walkers and runners use the paths that run along the side of the road. After a seasonal snowfall, many people take the opportunity to enjoy sledding down the big hill. When the course was a part of SCCC, there was a tow rope to help people get up to the top of the big hill; now there is a paved walkway. The course is a valuable asset to the community. Whether playing at Oakmont or on USC’s course, all golfers are asked to follow established course etiquette: replace all divots and ball marks, rake the sand trap, and leave the vicinity of the green after putting out. Four players are permitted in a group, and there is a four-ball limit per player. Resident Victor Joyce has been using the course a few times a week for the past ten years. He recently commented on what beautiful shape the course is in, even with the hot, dry summer we’ve had this past year. Kudos to the Recreation Department and Public Works for their hard work on keeping our course looking and playing great! n Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC Recreation and Leisure Services www.twpusc.org 412-221-1099

Save the Dates Community Blood Drive at the C&RC

Thursday, December 10 Noon–6 p.m. To schedule an appointment, visit vitalant.org and choose Login (for a previous donor) or New Donor (new to donating). The C&RC’s group number code is C565.

Camp December

December 28, 29, 30 Keep the kids active and engaged this winter break at Camp December! Children will enjoy socializing, crafting, and playing games with their peers and C&RC staff. Additional details will be available on the website beginning in December.

Animal toy making

MLK Day of Service

January 18, 2021 While it is doubtful that the C&RC will offer its traditional MLK Day of Service, we encourage you to spend the day by finding a way to serve others in need. See photos of last year’s MLK Day, showing participants engaged in service activities and having fun while doing so.

Card crafting

Cutting T-shirts for a craft project An assortment of packaged cookies for delivery

Seniors at Leisure USC Township Silver Card Offered by USC Township to residents age 62 or older. Proof of age and residency required at time of application. Card admits holder to the Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, specified Community & Recreation Center programs, and other activities designated and sponsored by the Township of Upper St. Clair. Applications are available at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park. 60

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Making blankets

For more information about any Older Adult programming, contact the C&RC at 412-221-1099. USCSD Gold Card Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission. To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Nancy Dunn at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Winter 2020

ACCESS and Port Authority Transportation for Senior Citizens Applications for the Pennsylvania Senior Transit ID and ACCESS transportation are available at the C&RC. Application must be made in person at the C&RC during operating hours. Proof of age (65 and older) is required. Additionally, proof of Allegheny County residency is required for ACCESS. The Port Authority will indefinitely continue to accept blue or yellow Pennsylvania Senior Transit ID cards.

Santa Claus is Coming to USC On Saturday, December 12, the members of the USC Volunteer Fire Department will be escorting Santa Claus around Upper St. Clair Township before he returns to the North Pole to finalize his annual Christmas visit around the world. Check the USC VFD website at www.uscvfd.com for a schedule of the approximate time Santa and his sleigh will be in your neighborhood. Listen for the sound of the sirens and wait at one of the street corners listed on the schedule. As always, Santa will have helpers from the fire department to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Take pictures of your friendly neighborhood Santa visit and post them on the fire department’s Facebook page. We encourage you to also email your photos (high resolution of at least 1MB each) to TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, listing “Santa visit” and your name in the subject line to help us identify who sent them. Your photos might appear in a future edition of our community’s magazine! n Contact Santa Command at 412-835-3339 if you need further information about Santa’s route after visiting the website (www.uscsvd.com) for scheduled times.

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Tear out this page that shows the Boyce Mayview Park map, taking it with you on your next venture to USCʼs largest park at more than 475 acres.

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USC Police Sergeants Complete Leadership Training

G’s LANDSCAPE LLC Residential ■ Commercial

This past summer, Sgt. Ronald Klein and Sgt. Michael Lindenfelser completed Leadership Training through the FBI-LEEDA trilogy (Supervisor Leadership, Command Leadership and Executive Leadership). The training’s focus is to define what type of leader the officer is and aims to be. It describes the leadership process and how outside influences, especially generational factors, affect leadership and tactics to help lead different generations. Lastly, it explains the process of weaving leadership into the participants’ lifestyles, and describes how to mentor future leaders. Congratulations to both men for completing this training. n

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Left to right: Police Chief Jonathan Wharton, Sgt. Michael Lindenfelser, Sgt. Ronald Klein, Township Manager Matthew Serakowski

Park Perimeter Trail Update Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator

The Boyce Mayview Park perimeter trail continues to grow. The most recently completed section of the ten-footwide paved hiker/biker trail is one step closer to connecting the southern portion of Boyce Mayview Park to the park’s northern portion. The new addition is an approximately 2000-linear-foot section continuation at the intersection of Morton Road and Rostron Drive. From this point, it follows along Morton Road to the intersection of Manor Drive. Thus far, this section of the trail has proven to be one of the most difficult sections to construct. However, with value engineering design provided by Gateway Engineers and quality construction from A. Merante Contracting, this portion of the trail was built on time and without substantial issues. A unique feature to this portion of the trail is the extension of a retaining wall that was part of the previous section of trail along Morton Road. Due to the subsurface soil, a portion of the retaining wall was constructed on a micropile cap. This design required 26 concrete pilons to be drilled into the subsurface bedrock, and a one-foot thick concrete cap was poured to tie all the pylons together. This created a solid foundation for the retaining wall to be constructed in the area of substandard soils, which is a typical construction practice for retaining walls. There are four trailhead ingress/egress locations along Morton Road to gain access to this portion of the perimeter trail, including the newest intersections of Rostron Drive, Lattidome Drive, and Manor Drive. There is also a connection to the interior trails at Morton Falls Trail.

412.726.0035

www.gslandscapellc.com The newest section of the perimeter trail

Funding for the perimeter trail was provided through grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD), along with supplemental funding from Upper St. Clair Township. The Township is currently exploring funding opportunities for the final 900-linear-foot section of the trail from the intersection of Morton Road and Manor Drive north to the Morton Road sports complex. Once completed, there will be more than five miles of the ten-foot-wide paved hiker/biker perimeter trail surrounding Boyce Mayview Park for all to enjoy. n Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Tri-Community South EMS During the Pandemic John Bower, EMT P, Paramedic Supervisor, Tri-Community South EMS During the ongoing pandemic, Tri-Community South (TCS) EMS staff continued to take precautions by following all the latest CDC guidelines to ensure that the cleaning and disinfection procedures continue to be consistent and correct. To keep the equipment clean and safe for you, TCS uses a hospital grade spray disinfecting agent to clean and sanitize each ambulance, equipment, and the EMS base, and use an antimicrobial spray to inhibit the growth of any agent in the ambulances and EMS base. TCS crews also use the disinfection equipment provided by the county at each emergency department after they transport a patient to the hospital. When arriving on the scene of a call, TCS staff uses eye protection, gloves, and masks, and will provide you with a mask to wear if you do not have one. Depending on the nature of the call, staff might wear a surgical type gown or protective suit. Please do not be alarmed by this; TCS is simply taking precautions to protect its crews and you. TCS staff will ask basic COVID-related questions, including wanting to know if you’ve had a cough, a sore throat, body

Tri-Community South EMS members are outfitted to help better guard them and you against the spread of germs during this heightened time.

aches, fever, vomiting, or chills, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. A crew member will take your oral temperature and continue with an assessment and your treatment. At this time, family members are not permitted to ride to the hospital in the ambulance except under certain circumstances, such as with a juvenile patient.

Limiting exposure of our crew members as much as possible is very important so that they can continue to service our community when called upon to do so. TCS has modified its daily operations to keep current with the ever-changing CDC guidelines, but rest assured that TCS and its members continue to be there for all the residents it serves by providing the highest level of out-of-hospital care possible. n

Tri-Community South EMS Needs You Tr i - C o m m u n i t y

South EMS (TCS), the municipally-owned-andoperated ambulance service for Bethel Park, South Park, and Upper St. Clair, is holding its annual subscription drive. Though TCS is owned and operated by the municipalities it serves, no municipal tax revenue is used for EMS operation. TCS attempts to recover operating costs by billing for services and accepting insurance reimbursements and by the annual subscription drive mailed to residents of the three communities it serves. Most insurance companies do not reimburse the system for the full cost of the call. The difference means that TCS must seek other sources of income in order to continue to provide the level of service that the community demands. Your $60 individual or $70 household subscription helps to make sure that TCS will continue to provide quality 64

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ambulance service whenever you need it. Your subscription to TCS means that should you, family members living at your home, or guests at your home need medically-necessary ambulance transportation, TCS will accept reimbursement from your healthcare or other appropriate insurance carrier, and you will be responsible for only 50% of any co-pay and deductible amounts. Non-subscribers are responsible for the full amount billed for the service. The subscription covers medicallynecessary services only. It does not cover care or transportation that does not meet established medical necessity guidelines or is outside the limits of insurance coverage. Subscribers receive a 50% discount off these non-covered services. The subscription also does not cover assistance with activities of daily living and

does not cover lift assists. These services put an undue strain on the ability of the system to handle medical emergencies, and are not covered at all by the subscription. Your subscription to TCS benefits you directly by potentially saving you hundreds of dollars when you need emergency medical service and, more importantly, by helping to make sure that high-quality EMS care is there when you need it. This is not an idle platitude. The crisis in the sustainability of EMS has been recognized by the Pennsylvania legislature, and the very real possibility exists that if nothing changes, EMS will no longer be there to provide care. Make a difference in your community by supporting TCS through your paid subscription! n

For questions concerning ambulance subscription or about Tri-Community South EMS and the services it provides, contact 412-831-3710, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., or visit the website at www.tcsems.org. Winter 2020

Tony Messina It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department announces the passing of firefighter Anthony D. Messina, 36, after his courageous battle with melanoma. The youngest son of Arthur and the late Barbara Messina, Tony graduated from Upper St. Clair High School in 2003. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy Seabees, and the U.S. Naval Reserves after serving tours Tony Messina of duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, Spain, Montenegro, and Africa. He was the recipient of numerous medals for the National Defense Service, Global War on Terrorism, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaigns. Tony, who was employed as a property manager for Union Real Estate, was a longtime member of the fire department. An inspiration to all who knew him, Tony will be dearly missed by his many friends, family, and his faithful dog, Benz. n

USC VFD tribute to Tony

John M. Lekse Scholarship Awarded The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department is pleased to announce that Zach Gerlach is the first recipient of the John M. Lekse Scholarship. Zach, the son of firefighter Greg Gerlach and grandson of life member Don Gerlach, received a check for $1000 this past July. A senior at the University of Dayton, Zach is pursuing his degree in engineering technology/industrial engineering. The John M. Lekse Scholarship Fund, administered by the Pittsburgh Foundation, was established by John’s family in 2019, shortly after his death. The fund is set to award approximately $1000 each year for USC VFD members or their immediate family members wanting to further their educational pursuits. The Lekse family said it was an easy decision to establish a scholarship in John’s name because it combined his dedication to helping others and his love of learning. It is the family’s hope that this benefit will help the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department attract new members and maintain their current ones. n

If you are interested to learn more about the scholarship or would like to contribute, visit the Pittsburgh Foundation’s website at www. pittsburghfoundation.org\scholarship\10792. Left to right: Zach Gerlach; Sue Lekse; Dan Barr, USC VFD president

Winter 2020

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National Flood Insurance Programs There were many flood victims last year throughout Allegheny County. Many of these victims sought help, but most homeowners, business owners, and renters did not have flood insurance. Private coverage can be unreliable and expensive. A great option for flood victims seeking help is the National Flood Insurance Programs (NFIP). The federal government offers the NFIP, which is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). NFIP aims to reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures. This program enables homeowners, business owners, and renters in participating communities who are in both high-risk and moderate-to-low risk areas to purchase federally-backed flood insurance. The program reduces the socioeconomic impact of disasters by promoting the purchase and retention of general risk insurance, but, more specifically, flood insurance. Upper St. Clair participates in this program. For a list of other participating communities, visit https://www.fema.gov/cis/PA.html. The NFIP covers direct physical damage by flood to your building and/or personal property. The following is a summary of what is covered and not covered under these programs (view the FEMA website or contact your insurance company for complete policy information). Covered Building Property: • Plumbing systems • Furnaces and water heaters • Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances, such as dishwashers • Permanently installed carpeting over an unfinished floor • Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases, and cabinets. The damage must be directly caused by flood water. Cabinets that were not damaged by flood water are not covered, even if they match cabinets that were damaged by flood water. • Window blinds • A detached garage, used for limited storage or parking. Up to ten percent of the building coverage limit can be used, but will reduce the total amount of building coverage available. Covered Personal Property Contents: • Personal belongings, including clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment • Curtains • Portable and window air conditioners (easily moved or relocated) • Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers • Carpets not included in building coverage (carpet installed over wood floors, etc.) • Clothing washers and dryers • Certain valuable items, including original artwork and furs (up to $2500) • Food freezers (other than walk-ins), including the food in them Not Covered for Building or Personal Property: • Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner or which is not attributable to the flood • Damage caused by earth movement, even if the earth movement is caused by the flood • Additional living expenses, including temporary housing, while the building is being repaired or is unable to be occupied • Loss of use or access of the insured property • Financial losses caused by business interruption • Property and belongings outside of an insured building, including trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools • Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers, such as stock certificates • Most self-propelled vehicles, including cars and their parts 66

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Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor: • Flood insurance coverage is limited to areas below the lowest elevated floor, including crawlspaces, depending on the flood zone and date of construction and in basements regardless of zone or date of construction. This includes: o Basements o Crawlspaces under an elevated building o Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-store foundation walls (sometimes referred to as “walkout basements”) o Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Covered Building Property: • Foundation walls, anchorage systems, and staircases attached to the building • Central air conditioners • Cisterns and the water in them • Drywall for walls and ceilings (in basement only) • Non-flammable insulation (in basement only) • Electrical outlets, switches, and circuit-breaker boxes • Fuel tanks and the fuel in them, solar energy equipment, and well water tanks and pumps • Furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, and sump pumps Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Covered Personal Property: • Washers and dryers • Food freezers and the food in them, but not refrigerators • Portable and window air conditioners Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor—Not Covered Under Building or Personal Property: • Paneling, bookcases, and window treatments, including curtains and blinds • Carpeting, area carpets, and other floor coverings, such as tile • Drywall for walls and ceilings (below the lowest elevated floor) • Walls and ceilings not made of drywall • In certain cases, staircases and elevators • Most personal property, such as clothing, electronic equipment, kitchen supplies, and furniture

NFIP Contact Information Website: https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program Phone: 800-621-FEMA / 800-427-4661 Email: floodsmart@fema.dhs.gov This summary is intended for informational purposes only and is not a complete description of the NFIP. Visit the FEMA website and contact your insurance company for complete information before purchasing a policy. A list of private insurance companies that sell the NFIP can be found at https://www.fema. gov/wyo_company. If your agent does not sell NFIP, contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661. Background about NFIP flood insurance and about the claims process can be found at http://www.fema.gov/information-property-owners. n

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 are to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads, including Route 19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort Couch Road, and Mayview Road, are plowed first as a matter of public safety and for emergency vehicles. 2. Do not shovel or plow snow back into the streets. This is a violation of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and creates additional traffic safety problems. 3. When streets are plowed, snow will be pushed in front of driveways. Unfortunately, there is no other place for the snow to go. 4. The Public Works Department is not permitted to assist residents by clearing driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mailboxes. Public Works employees work as many hours as necessary to make streets, inlets, cul-de-sacs, Township o w n e d s i d e w a l k s , 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 advertising publications. 7. The Township receives numerous calls regarding sidewalks not being adequately maintained during heavy snow periods. Sidewalks with unshoveled snow may cause problems for residents, school

children, mail carriers, delivery persons, etc. Chapter 109 of the Township Code states that the standard removal time of snow and ice from sidewalks is within 12 hours after the snow or ice has ceased to fall or be formed. There are several Township-owned sidewalks that are posted “No Winter Maintenance” and are not covered under this ordinance. 8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow. They are for your safety. 9. Cars can be towed if they restrict access for snow removal vehicles, per Chapter 120A of the Township Code, which states: Whenever any vehicle shall be found wrecked, abandoned, restricting access of emergency or snow removal vehicles or parked or used in violation of laws and ordinances now or hereafter in force, such vehicles shall be removed by authorized township employees or by a contract tower upon authorization of the Township Manager or his designated representative to the township pound, garage or lot. The Township Manager or his designated representative may direct the towing of a vehicle to any township designated pound, garage or lot for the purpose of police investigation.

Public Works Snow Removal— How It Works

The Public Works Department is on call 24 hours a day to help residents with snow removal emergencies and related situations. During severe snow situations where plowing is needed, the main state and Township roads have priority, which in some cases requires residential roadways to be designated secondary priority. The department deploys 16 trucks equipped with salt spreaders and plows to clear approximately 110 miles of roadway, all Township-owned parking lots, buildings, and all School District parking lots. The department is currently contracted to perform snow and ice removal on Winter 2020

www.twpusc.org

all state-owned roadways within the Township, including Route 19, Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, and McMillan Road. It does not have maintenance responsibilities for Allegheny County-owned roadways, including Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, and Drake Road. Some considerations regarding the snow removal services that you receive as a resident of USC include: 1. The Public Works Department must be alert to air temperatures and road surface temperatures. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective to about 23° Fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°, road surfaces will require additions of liquid calcium chloride. Traffic causes rock salt to act more quickly, so streets with heavier traffic will show the results of sodium chloride application sooner than less traveled roadways. 2. The Township contracts with a weather consulting company, which provides advanced weather forecasting. 3. Peak traffic occurs between the hours of 6–9 a.m. and 3–6 p.m. Decisions to delay school must be made by school administration. 4. The Public Works Department minimizes the use of chemicals by plowing whenever possible. Generally, accumulations over one inch with additional snow predicted may require plowing as dictated by temperature. 5. Constant monitoring of road conditions helps the Public Works administration coordinate snow removal actions to ensure total roadway coverage. All snow removal vehicle drivers assist and back each other up to ensure effective roadway salting and plowing. 6. Walks will be cleared at the Township building (including the library entrance) C&RC, MAC, and tennis bubbles as soon as possible. The Recreation Department’s schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities. 7. Excessive snow may require opening of inlets or location of fire plugs. 8. The Public Works Department has instituted an anti-icing process into the snow removal operation. This process consists of applying manufactured salt brine to the roadways prior to a storm event. As you encounter these Public Works’ trucks applying the product, please give them the space and rightof-way needed. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Reminders 2020–2021 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Holiday Collection Date Thanksgiving.....Friday, November 27, for regular Thursday collection. Christmas...........Wednesday, December 23, for regular Wednesday collection and Thursday, December 24, for regular Thursday collection. (No change to scheduled collection.) New Year............Wednesday, December 30, for regular Wednesday collection and Thursday, December 31, for regular Thursday collection. (No change to scheduled collection.)

2020 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place the remaining two Saturdays in 2020: November 21; December 5.

Attention Dog Owners Pennsylvania law requires owners to obtain dog licenses in January of each year. Violations can result in fines of up to $300 per day. To be in compliance with this law, dog owners must obtain the Allegheny County License by January 1 of each year. The Allegheny County application is available at: • The Upper St. Clair Police Department • The Upper St. Clair Township Reception Desk • Online at www.county.allegheny.pa.us/treasure/dog.aspx The Upper St. Clair license, which should be obtained in January of each year, is a “Pet License.” Chapter 41 of the Township Code defines a pet as “any dog, cat, or other domesticated animal kept for pleasure rather than utility.” The Upper St. Clair license application is available at: • The Upper St. Clair Township Reception Desk • Online (PDF) at www.twpusc.org There is no charge for the Upper St. Clair license, but proof of rabies vaccination is required.

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Winter 2020

Township of Upper St. Clair’s Christmas Tree Recycling Project December 26, 2020–January 31, 2021 Discarded live trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use. Please remove all lights, decorations, and plastic tree bags! Tree drop off will be at the empty lot across from the Public Works Building on Truxton Drive. Check the Township website at www.twpusc.org, view Cable 7, or call 412-831-9000, ext. 2710, if you need more information.

Deer Management Update Upper St. Clair Township continues its partnership with Whitetail Management Associates and contracts with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an all-time high number of reported deer-vehicle collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts, and last year the total number of accidents involving deer was 40. The deer population in some areas of the Township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in portions of the Township, there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer-vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level. The Township is fortunate to have residents assist in its efforts by offering private property for the culling programs. Residents who would like consideration for inclusion in private property culling for the Deer Management program should contact Township personnel at 412-831-9000.

MOVEMENT M O R T G A G E

Kevin O’Laughlin MOVEMENT MORTGAGE MARKET LEADER NMLS#: 1289348 direct: 412.600.1527 kevin.olaughIin@movement.com movement.com/kevin.olaughlin

110 For t Couch Rd., Suite 303, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania 15102 I PA-53158, IN-28226, Ml-1289348, VA-ML0-25546VA, OH-ML0.048081.000, OH-L0.048081.000, TX, Fl-L031566 I Movement Mor tgage, LLC suppor ts Equal Housing Oppor tunity. NMLS ID# 39179 (w ww. nmlsconsumeraccess.org) I 877-314-1499. Movement Mor tgage, LLC is licensed by PA # 34374, IN # 18121, Ml # FR0018717 & SR0020189, VA # MC-5112 and OH # SM.501922.000 & MB.804187.000, TX, FL# MLD200 & MLD1360. Interest rates and products are subject to change without notice and may or may not be available at the time of loan commitment or lock-in. Borrowers must qualify at closing for all benefits. “Movement Mor tgage” is a registered trademark of the Movement Mor tgage, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. 8024 Calvin Hall Rd, Indian Land, SC 29707. CPID 5238 I Exp. 7/2018

Residential and Commercial Landscape Design & Installation landscaping, lighting, patios, pavers, retaining walls, ponds, waterfalls, outdoor kitchens, fire pits

Now in our 30th year!

412-720-5189

Creating beautiful outdoor living spaces

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

Winter 2020

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Life Planning

This is beautiful. This is home.

When Providence Point is your home, you’ll find you don’t downsize, you SUPERSIZE! Your new home offers a pool, spa, fitness center, theatre, indoor parking, four dining venues, a library, a bank, and stellar healthcare.* Providence Point is Pittsburgh’s premier retirement address and, as a Life Plan Community, it is designed for the way you live now with the added peace of mind you want for your future. Call today to learn more.

Take a virtual tour, join us for a Zoom event, or schedule a personal tour and hear about our latest move-in incentives.

A Baptist Homes Society community

CALL 412.489.3550

500 Providence Point Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 *Providence Point Healthcare Residence is consistently rated one of the Best Nursing Homes in the USA by US News & World Report.

Despite Pandemic, Older Adults Can Enjoy Responsible Social Time PP Ad-USCSummer2020.indd 2

10/19/2020 12:51:19 PM

Grant Thornton, Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community During the last number of months, older adults are learning new and creative ways to socialize, exercise, and enjoy life, all while staying socially distanced. It may be some time before the senior living communities can fully open their doors to resume cozy gatherings and entertaining lunches. But in the meantime at Providence Point, more than 17 families have moved into this 62+ Life Plan Community. And sure enough, a vibrant, active lifestyle continues. Considering a move to a seniordesigned living community during the COVID-19 pandemic doesn’t have to wait. The marketing staff and onboarding team at Providence Point are using Zoom events, virtual tours, and video chat apps to help folks get started. They also offer onsite tours of distinctively decorated apartments and patio home models, all while following infection control guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Insurance 70

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of safety for the residents, staff, and visitors is of the highest importance. During this pandemic, many older adults are experiencing increased isolation and anxiety. Retirement communities, including Providence Point, are not seeing that among their residents. One of the residents of Providence Point, Ron, was quoted as saying, “Prior to COVID-19, I was working on a genealogy project with a group of residents. Though we’re not meeting regularly right now, I’ve continued my research and writing the stories of my ancestors. Being here, among friends, I realize we’re all in this together.” Now is a great time to move! The housing market in the Pittsburgh area is doing well, and interest rates remain the lowest in years. That makes selling your current home that much easier. The folks who have already moved to Providence Point are glad they did, especially in times when social distancing orders can make people feel isolated Winter 2020

Gordon and Ann Mitchell, residents of Providence Point, enjoy taking walks around the retirement community’s gardens and courtyards, as well as venturing out to Pittsburgh’s great walking trails.

and decrease the opportunity for activities among older adults. Ann and Gordon Mitchell, who moved to Providence Point last year, said, “We really enjoy living here. Providence Point management has done a great job reacting to the pandemic and keeping us safe and healthy. While restricting us a little from being around other people to stay safe, they really want us to be active, too!” n There are currently some time-limited incentives at Providence Point. To learn more, contact Providence Point. See ad on this page.

Life Planning

EIGHT YEARS RUNNING

2013-2020

Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award Winner in Patient Satisfaction

Advanced Surgical Hospital complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. (TTY: 711) Advanced Surgical Hospital cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. (TTY: 711) ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-808-9008 ID 67115549 (TTY: 711) Advanced Surgical Hospital 遵守適用的聯邦民權法律規定，不因種族、膚色、民族血統、年齡、殘障或性別而視任何人。注意:如果使用繁體中文，可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電1-888-808-9008 ID 67115549 (TTY: 711)

Prepare for Retirement

The sooner you put certain retirement strategies to work, the better you’ll feel about saving for retirement. Putting money aside for post-work years can feel daunting. How much do you save? When do you start? Feeling overwhelmed or being unsure of how to begin may be part of the reason that one in three Millennials haven’t put anything away for retirement. A new year is a great time to take a look at your approach to planning for retirement. If you’re just getting started, make it a New Year’s resolution to start saving in earnest for retirement. Here’s motivation to get you started. 1. Start now, no matter how old you are. If possible, it’s a good idea to start saving for retirement as soon as you get your first job. If you are not able to do that, know that the most important thing is to start today (or as soon as you can). Although you might need to devote more funds to retirement savings the later you begin, it’s important to simply start, however old you are, and to save what you can when you can. 2. Save at least enough to get your employer match, if you have it. Your first step should be to find out if your employer offers a retirement plan and whether or not they provide a match. If so, meet with your benefits coordinator to find out how to take advantage to its fullest potential. Many employers will match your contribution, dollar for dollar, up to a certain amount or percentage. Your first goal should be to contribute what you need to get the full match, and then add more to your contribution as it fits into your budget. Also, learn about any vesting policies your company may have.

3. Open your own retirement savings account. Starting a separate retirement savings account, like an IRA, is a good option. If your employer offers their own program and you’ve opted in, then contributing to a separate personal retirement savings account can help you speed up your savings strategy. If you don’t have an employer-sponsored program, then opening your own tax-advantaged retirement savings account gives you the ability to prepare for the future on your own. 4. Boost your savings every year. As you accumulate retirement savings and your budget allows, increase your contribution levels annually, even if it’s only a small increase based upon your financial situation. For example, if you receive a raise, put at least a portion of the extra income toward your retirement fund. 5. Contribute automatically. If you never see the money, you’ll be less likely to miss it, and you’ll add to your retirement savings without thinking about it. Set up automatic deductions from your paycheck for whatever frequency and amount works with your budget. 6. Put extra money to work. Raises, gifts, bonuses, tax refunds, or any other unexpected income are other ways to contribute and help build your savings for retirement. 7. Put debt payment dollars to work. If you’ve allocated a certain amount of your money toward debt repayment and finish paying off credit cards or loans, use those same funds to increase your retirement savings once that debt is eliminated. n This article was provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on page 75. Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Life Planning

Independent Living at Asbury Heights Discover a variety of Independent Living options including spacious apartments, new Garden Apartments, carriage homes, and off-campus luxury apartments. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 412-571-5133.

700 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon asburyheights.org Asbury Heights complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

Senior Living Community— a Winter Respite 2469_SRLIV517415_usc_today_winter_ad_4.875x4.875.indd 1

9/29/20 2:27 PM

Marjie Doughton, Asbury Heights

No need to struggle through another winter of constant weather worries and isolation. Make plans now to safely get through winter without stress, whether that decision is to stay at home or to have a respite stay at a senior living community. Your primary source of a successful winter at home is having a strong support system of friends, family, or neighbors. They can help when you’re snowbound or to check in on you. Seeing others regularly can also keep the winter blues away. Being isolated for long periods of time can lead to depression and other mental health issues. Cooking for one can be difficult. Keep a well-stocked pantry so that you can easily pull together a healthy and satisfying meal. Call 412-571-5138 to get a free copy of Asbury Height’s Healthy Cooking for One cookbook. Challenge yourself to complete a project that you’ve been putting off. How about creating a scrapbook or organizing some of those old photo albums? Try a new hobby or learn a new language. There are many wonderful opportunities for learning and growth at your local library. If the weather is bad and you have Internet connection in your home, engage with friends using technology. There are free services that allow you to text, send pictures, or video chat with loved ones. Your local library can help direct you to services that work best for you and your device. There are many ways to enjoy the upcoming winter months at home, but there are still tasks that can be daunting. Some of them include traveling to the store in icy conditions and cleaning snow and ice from your walkway. A winter respite stay at a senior living community can be like a vacation. You can stay warm and comfortable in your private room or apartment, where you’ll have access to a variety of activities, three meals a day, and housekeeping services, among other things. Best of all, you’ll give your family and friends peace of mind knowing that you are safe and enjoying each day. There’s no place like home, but a senior living community for a temporary stay can truly feel like a winter getaway. Whatever you do, be safe, be healthy, and be you! n

See ad for Asbury Heights on this page. 72

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Winter 2020

Do Not Delay Mammograms and Other Important Screenings Nationwide, there has been a dramatic and ominous drop in breast cancer screenings of up to 50% since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to widespread concern in the medical community that a consequent rise in breast cancer cases and deaths in the near future is inevitable. “Across the country, women have not been getting their routine screening mammograms, due, in part, to patient anxiety about exposure to the virus,” says Tara L. Grahovac, MD, a board-certified breast Tara Grahovac, MD surgeon at St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center. “At this point, no one knows what the full impact will be. The National Cancer Institute does prediction modeling, and they estimate that there will be an excess of 10,000 deaths from breast and colorectal cancer over the next ten years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Delayed screenings mean delayed diagnoses and a greater likelihood of advanced cancer when it is finally diagnosed. After the initial lockdown period in which elective procedures were cancelled in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, hospitals have made significant progress in providing a safe environment of care. Protective measures, including personal protective equipment, masks, handwashing and social distancing, and accelerated utilization of telemedicine, help protect patients from exposure to COVID-19. “At St. Clair Hospital, we have made this transition with great care,” says Dr. Grahovac. “COVID-19 is a very serious virus, but we’ve mitigated the threat with environmental control and strict safety measures. We advocate that people come in and get the vital screenings they need. Screening mammograms save lives—they reduce breast cancer mortality by one third. Don’t wait until you have a mass in your breast.” Breast cancer screenings include mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and breast MRIs. n

Full imaging services are available at St. Clair Hospital. To schedule an appointment at St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center, call 412-942-8150. See ads for St. Clair Hospital on pages 5 and 46.

Life Planning

Look your best. Feel even better. There’s nothing like the feeling you get when you love what you see in the mirror. It’s a sense of confidence and well-being that comes from within. It’s a feeling we can help you experience through the very best in expertise and aesthetics. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and backed by St. Clair Hospital, we provide a full range of cosmetic enhancement and plastic surgery services tailored to your individual goals. If you’ve been thinking about refreshing your appearance, call us today. Because looking good goes well beyond the surface.

Breast Augmentation • Breast Lift • Face Lift • Brow Lift Liposuction • Tummy Tuck • Rhinoplasty • Botox/Fillers TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS : St. Clair Hospital St. Clair Hospital Professional Office Building Outpatient Center–Peters

*100 Top Hospitals® is a registered trademark of IBM Watson Health™ .

Where to Go Now? 855-1_SCPSA_halfPg_USCT_FR_r2.indd 1

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

412.572.6164 stclair.org/plastic-surgery

Robert W. Bragdon, M.D., FACS

9/8/20 3:27 PM

Sandy Goldstein, ABR, e-Pro

My husband, Marshall, and I moved to Upper St. Clair Township in 1976 to raise our family in a safe neighborhood with good schools. It’s been 44 years since we relocated here. Our son, Russell, is married and living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with his wife, Larissa, and their two boys. Our daughter, Jodi, lives in Mt. Lebanon with her husband, Uri, and their three children. We are fortunate to have our daughter and her family close by. We love our home and neighbors; however, we are beginning to think about where we might move if that day comes. The decision to move is different for everyone. Many seniors decide to make a move as soon as their last child graduates from college. Many of those families move to a patio-style home with a first floor master bedroom in a community with a homeowners association that will take care of lawn maintenance and snow removal. Others prefer a condo or a cooperative, like Bower Hill or 900 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon. Those choices have advantages, too. In a cooperative, the utilities and taxes are included in the monthly fees. Choosing to move into an apartment or to leave the local area for a sunbelt state are alternatives that many consider. Staying in your home is another option; and making your home safe is very important. To keep a safe environment in your home: • Remove throw rugs that can cause tripping. • Add a walk-in shower or a step-in tub. • Add a stair lift, if walking up steps in your two-story home becomes a problem. Providence Point, Friendship Village, Concordia, Asbury Heights, and Chartiers Bend are just some of the local senior facilities. If you decide to move into a senior apartment that includes a skilled care facility, you may be eligible for additional care if and when it is needed. Take the time to talk to an attorney or financial advisor for help in making this important, life-altering decision. Whether you decide to stay in your home or move to another one, being happy and confident with your decision is fundamental to the next years of your life! n

Located at 395 Valley Brook Road in Mc Murray, see ad for Sandy and Marshall Goldstein, Keller Williams Realty, on this page.

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Life Planning Choosing a Retirement Community KellyJo Hinrichs, Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort There’s a common perception that retirement is a relaxing time, free from the worries of work and raising a family. We see some seniors sail into retirement and some who experience stress around the family move, especially as they research transitional living options. Money management, health issues, and the loss of friends and loved ones can also take their toll, which is why stress management remains an important goal throughout our lives. A good diet can also provide the nutrition a person needs to maintain overall health. Some seniors, empty nesters, and families with few members living together sometimes decide to retire from meal planning and eat the same foods for multiple days to avoid wasting leftovers. Living in a community can improve the variety in a person’s diet. Exercise goes hand-in-hand with nutrition as a major factor in maintaining good health. Senior communities can provide advantages here, too, including indoor exercise spaces and safe, well-maintained

equipment. The best retirement community options include their own 24-hour fitness center with a full schedule of resident-centric classes designed to improve balance, strength, and cardiovascular health. Great programs offer classes where residents have such a good time they often forget they’re exercising! One significant lifestyle change that addresses many stressors for seniors is downsizing. Homes of all sizes can be expensive to maintain, upkeep becomes more physically demanding, and staying in a home after the loss of a loved one can affect the lifestyle of the surviving spouse. Independent living senior communities should accommodate residents’ needs for safety, shelter, and companionship, so that families are relieved from stressful financial and maintenance burdens, which, in turn, improves the senior’s quality of life. Ultimately, companionship and interaction with others are powerful tools in combatting stress and maintaining good health. With entertaining options and a caring community staff on hand to help

guide and fill social needs, a retirement community brings its residents together. Chartiers Bend welcomes companion animals and provides ample opportunities for friends and family to take part in scheduled activities. And when loved ones can’t be here, Chartiers Bend’s around-theclock staff knows each and every resident and can identify stress-related changes in the resident’s appearance or behavior. It’s comforting to residents and their families to know that we’re here to catch any changes early and ensure they don’t become major sources of stress. Chartiers Bend, a resort-style retirement community, opened to residents in 2019. Today, this community is the home of happy residents who have remained safe and engaged throughout the pandemic, with the option to engage in a full schedule of activities, from painting classes and fitness events to live shows in a state-ofthe-art theater. n See ad for Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort on page 75.

The Real Estate Industry and COVID-19 Where Will We Be in 2021? Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®

By the time you read this edition of TODAY, the 2020 U.S. Presidential election will be over and we will be further along in how we are dealing with the global health pandemic. The question on everyone’s mind is: Will things return to normal as we knew it, or will we have to contend with finding a new normal? No one can predict the answer with certainty, but what we can assume regarding residential real estate are the following points: 1. The real estate market will continue to be a dominate force regarding the economy of our country. The real estate market is expected to remain a major factor in the growth and health of our country, and the overlapping necessary purchases of household items is expected to also continue, including new home construction and the purchase of appliances, TVs, carpeting, paint, home goods, plumbing, carpentry, etc. 2. Reading experts’ predictions, mortgage 74

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rates are expected to remain below four percent for the foreseeable future. Possibly, the under three percent rates we’ve seen during the last six months will continue. The stock markets (especially the U.S stock market) and the world climate and culture will surely be determining factors. 3. Home prices will continue to be at the level they are, aggressive. The Pittsburgh real estate market is booming and there is a shortage of homes for sale. Homes are selling within days to one week if the house is move-in ready, updated and priced to sell, and is in a desirable location. These factors lend themselves for a quick, confident home sale. 4. New potential buyers are asking themselves, “Why pay rent when mortgage rates are so affordable?” With the incentive of a home investment, coupled with favorable tax advantages, the Winter 2020

housing market will be worthwhile for first-time buyers, move-up buyers, downsizing buyers, and, of course, the “flipping home” investors. Residential real estate remains a great value for the money, short term or long term. Everyone needs a place to lay their head at night and “hang their hat,” as they say! Why not own? 5. Will the local demand for housing remain? Yes! The predictions are pointing in that direction, especially for the “Over 55” communities in the Pittsburgh region. This type of housing and community is expected to increase in popularity and continue to grow and develop in our area. Wishing all of you a healthy, productive year ahead. My hope is that 2021 is a better year for all of us! n See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Real Estate, on page 75.

Life Planning

Celebrate Life. Bridgeville’s newest independent retirement living community is Now now open and leasing fast! Open! At Chartiers Bend, we offer more than just a community – we offer worry-free retirement living. Designed exclusively for adults 55 and over, we take care of everything with one monthly price and no buy-in fee so you can enjoy the good things in life!

Call today to schedule a tour and start living the retirement life you’ve always dreamed of:

412-227-9626

Chartiers Bend 1001 Hastings Park Drive  Bridgeville, PA 15017 ChartiersBendRetirement.com

Dempsey Delivers Results

Lynn Dempsey, Realtor

lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com www.lynnsellspittsburgh.com

Thank you Clients! ❤ $25 million plus 2018-2020

C: (412) 445-6264 O: (412) 833-5405

National Corporate Relocation Specialist

Corporate Relocation Specialist CNMS, CNBS, CNIS

© 2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Around the Township Historical Society Receives Grant for Springhouse Repair Rachel Carlson, President, Historical Society of Upper St. Clair This fall, the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair (HSUSC) embarked on the restoration of Gilfillan Farm’s springhouse. The springhouse is believed to be the oldest structure on the Gilfillan property, predating the Gilfillans. It is a small stone structure located at one of the lowest elevation points on the property. The springhouse captures water from underground springs, diverting them through pipes and a trough in the building. The cold underground water Gilfillan springhouse, circa 1940–1950. source provided our ancestors with the first “refrigeration.” Different food products in containers would be stored directly in the water trough and others would be stored in containers on shelves in the cool building. Over the years, the water for the Gilfillan Farm springhouse has gone off course. It is currently flowing beneath the stone walls, eroding the foundation of the structure and flooding the floor.

Then Ski Masonry will repair the damage to the stone structure. The HSUSC will be documenting the restoration project on the Gilfillan Farm Facebook page. Visit www.facebook.com/GilfillanFarm. This will be the third major restoration project at Gilfillan Farm, and it is in line with the recommendations set forth in the 2015 Gilfillan Farm Master Plan. The plan is a result of local experts Keith Cochran (architect), David Scofield (preservation consultant), Anne Madarz (curator), and Mark Abtman (landscape architect) working together with HSUSC and the local community to assess and outline the condition of the property, artifacts, and buildings resulting in a plan and priority list for restoration. The first project was the smokehouse, a small brick structure used for preserving meats. The project required complete dismantling and rebuilding of the structure and was funded by the Allegheny Foundation and generous donations from the Upper St. Clair community. The summer kitchen, a larger brick structure used for cooking in the summer, came next. This project required extensive masonry repairs. This project was supported by a grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s Keystone Historic Preservation Grant, a program funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Matching funds for this project came from community support through the Gilfillan Farm Barnyard Beer Benefit. The work of both projects was done by Ski Masonry and are now nearing completion. A reassessment of the plan and priority list is scheduled for later this fall and winter.

A flooded interior of the springhouse, showing broken pipe and water on the floor instead of where it should flow (into the trough) Buildings on the Gilfillan property, left to right: farmhouse, summer kitchen, smokehouse

The springhouse project will involve geotechnical engineers from Ackenheil Engineers, Inc. and excavating crews to locate the source of the water and direct it, in a controlled mann e r, b a c k t h ro u g h the springhouse. 76

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As a Registered National Historic Place, all projects completed on the Gilfillan Farm are done to the Secretary of the Interior’s standards and in consultation with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, as well as with the Gilfillan Farm Master Plan team of experts. The Gilfillan Farm springhouse project was made possible thanks to a Gaming Economic and Development Tourist Fund grant that was brought to the attention of HSUSC by Pennsylvania State Representative Natalie Mihalek. n Winter 2020

15241 TODAY

Be Entertained

Keeping USC residents entertained, 15241 TODAY talk “On Stage with Jim and Lanny” a half-hour broadcast cohosted by Jim Render and Lanny Frattare, is continuing to gain viewership. Using light-hearted, friendly conversation as the platform, the interviews are periodically aired on USC’s TV stations (Cable 7 or Verizon 42) and can also be viewed at anytime digitally on your computer or handheld device, using the vimeo links shown below. All broadcasts are available on USC Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) by choosing “Video Gallery” under the subhead “Life in USC,” and selecting the Tony Accamando broadcast of your choice. You can also log into the School District’s athletic website (https://upperstclairathletics. com), where all the links are shared. Photos and highlights from interviews with our most recent guests (shown in order of appearance since June) accompany this feature story. Doug Whaley

talk

• Jim O’Brien: A man who has had an amazing journalism career in all phases of the athletic world—as a journalist, editor, sports information director (at Pitt), and as a writer of numerous books about the legends of Pittsburgh sports. (https://vimeo.com/427494280) • Josh Helmrich: A USC graduate, Josh went from high school ball boy to starting quarterback, to a punter at and graduate of Yale, to working as an administrator in the office of the National Football League. (https://vimeo.com/428602701) • Von Campanella: A 42-year veteran with Delta airlines, this is the only job Von has ever had. This USC resident began loading bags in Boston and cleaning planes in Washington DC, eventually advancing to the company’s general manager of global sales. (https://vimeo.com/427493697) • Tony Accamando: He lived and raised his family in USC while he worked and helped Adelphia Cable create its position as a television and media mogul. A Vietnam veteran, Tony built schools in Danang, Vietnam, and he currently works to raise money for service dogs for veterans. (https://vimeo.com/436212757) • Todd Flynn: A USC graduate who became a veteran history teacher in the USC School District and a longtime coach of football and golf. Although now retired from teaching, he remains the head coach of the very successful Panthers golf team. (https://vimeo.com/436525049) • Craig Wolfley: In 1989, Craig was named to the Syracuse University Football All Century Team. He then played for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1980–1989 seasons. An Upper St. Clair resident, Craig currently serves as a sideline reporter for the Steelers and hosts a radio show on ESPN 970. (https://vimeo.com/436524671)

Jim O’Brien

Josh Helmrich

Von Campanella

Todd Flynn

Craig Wolfley

Mike White

Ryan Huzjak

Don Rebel

John Banaszak

• Mike White: The long-tenured high school sports editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Mike began as a novice writer while attending North Hills High School. Mike was hired by the PPG shortly after graduating from Duquesne University and has led the discussion of high school sports ever since. (https://vimeo.com/447558157) • Doug Whaley: A 1990 graduate of USC, Doug was captain of the 1989 PIAA state championship USCHS football team and the Pennsylvania Player of the Year who became a starter at Pitt for three years. Later a pro personnel director for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he moved on to the coveted position of general manager for the Buffalo Bills for four years. (https://vimeo.com/447557686) • Tidbits and COVID-19: Chatting with co-hosts Jim Render and Lanny Frattare, discussions about ramifications of COVID-19 and other interesting tidbits are shared, keeping our viewers entertained. (https://vimeo.com/447558595) • Ryan Huzjak: This Upper St. Clair resident is the vice president of sales and marketing for the Pittsburgh Steelers. A Chicago native, he previously worked for the Bulls, White Sox, and Bears. He is a rising star in the world of athletic administration. (https;//vimeo.com/459478311) • Don Rebel: This Pittsburgh native has been a sports junkie all of his life. An innovator for getting high school games broadcast via the Internet, he is currently the director of Trib Live Sports. (https://vimeo.com/459477855) • John Banaszak: John played defensive line for the Pittsburgh Steelers in three Super Bowl championship victories. A former Marine, John was inducted into the USMC Winter 2020

Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017. He was the head football coach for both Washington and Jefferson and Robert Morris Universities. (https://vimeo.com/461089338) n

Interviews with the guests from May 2019 to May 2020, in order of appearance, can also be viewed via the Township or USCSD athletic websites: Jim Render Police Chiefs Jonathan Wharton and Sean Bryson Steve Blass Kent Tekulve Jerry Berteotti Lanny Frattare Phil Newcamp Dr. Kevin Deitrick The Honorable D. Michael Fisher Grant Jackson Suzie McConnell-Serio Sean Casey Pat Palazzolo Eddie Johnston Danny Holzer District Magistrate Judge Ronald Arnoni Gene Steratore Angela Petersen Jim Leyland Dave Schraven Missie Berteotti Superintendent Dr. John Rozzo Terry Kushner Jerry Malarkey Tim O’Malley UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Synergy of Volunteering… What is a VOLUNTEER? A volunteer is an individual who offers his or her time, shares skills and talents for the benefit of others, and expects no compensation. In offering to serve others, a volunteer becomes a part of something bigger than him or herself and brings heart and soul to projects, enterprises, or undertakings to raise up others. One great benefit of volunteering is in the synergy that is generated when individuals come together for a common cause. Many friendships are formed and endure as a result of the experience of that synergy. When the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair was established in 1993, the founders met with a “can-do” attitude, set up their first synergistic event, and raised more than $53,000.00. They formed what became an ongoing partnership with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, which performed on the high school stage more than a dozen times. Since that first event, the Foundation has continually raised funds and supported hundreds more projects. The focus of activity has been on school and community, and the beneficiaries of these efforts have been thousands of Upper St. Clair residents of all ages. Projects for music, art, theater, dance, poetry, school sports, community sports, science and technology, health, life-long education, and many others came to fruition because of the visionary and caring volunteers who have served the community in these special ways for more than 25 years. The results of donation drives and fundraising events have enabled the Trustees to support playground renovations in the schools and community, purchase sport equipment including mats, purchase a shell for Crew as well as a safety launch, and a handicapped accessible water fountain for Casey’s Clubhouse. They have provided updates for the high school stage, including an acoustic shell and a Steinway Grand Piano, hundreds of technology items, such as computers, recorders, communication repeaters, and have also staged technology events, like the Marsville Project with a NASA astronaut, and Amateur Radio Communication with the American-Russian Joint Space Shuttle, five years of Techno-Expo Days, environmental education projects, leadership conferences, the Plant 2000 Trees project, a flag pole for the Veterans Monument Park, and so many other significant endeavors that have created synergy in Upper St. Clair and contributed to the strong character of our caring community. Now in 2020, like all other volunteer organizations, the Community Foundation has been practicing social distancing during these unusual times with closures due to the pandemic. All activity abruptly came to a halt in March. Then, Community Day was canceled, meaning that the Great Duck Race could not happen. So, the ducks went to roost and, hopefully by next May, they will again be floating down McLaughlin Run. It was anticipated that things might ease by September, but the planning for the annual Golf Invitational with our partners at the Gallagher Foundation was tabled in June due the many uncertainties. When the COVID-19 situation finally passes, you will see us back at Community Day and on the greens again for these amazing events. As different needs have emerged, the Board of Trustees has created mini grants for special projects such as the Book Buddies Sale, a resale of used/donated SAT Prep Books at a reduced cost for students who are currently preparing to take college entrance exams, and the grocerydelivery412.com project to assist senior citizens during the stay-at-home orders. The Foundation also provided some public relations support for the Art for Joy project, organized by two of our newest Junior Trustees, Eileen Guo and Katherine Li. They joined at our online meeting in September and announced that with the sale of art works that they created, they met their goal of raising $1000 for the Greater Washington Food Bank. The Board was also honored to support a request from the Tri-Community South EMS for assistance to purchase much needed health and safety supplies to sanitize the ambulances, and benefit not only our residents, but the community-at-large. Even though we all continue to practice social distancing, the Foundation plans to be around to encourage many more projects and further inspire the sense of community that thrives here. We will continue to sell blankets until our supply is depleted, we will plan for the usual regular events like the Great Duck Race, the Golf Invitational, and the Giving Tea, and we will run our annual Donation Drive. Donations from our friends and neighbors make it possible for us to maintain a website, deliver Constant Contact announcements via email, and cover the minimal office expenses we have so that funds can be shared when worthy projects arise. We also need volunteers to join us to share a seat on the Honor Roll of Visionaries who have served as Trustees for the Foundation. If you are interested in donating to CFUSC, please visit www.cfusc.org and find the DONATE button to pay by credit card or by using PayPal. Checks are welcome and can be mailed to CFUSC, 2585 Washington Road #131, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. Please consider joining the Foundation Board to continue creating the synergy that has brought so much enrichment to our community and residents. 78

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Winter 2020

Recognizing Historic Leadership The first official meeting of the Community Education Foundation of Upper St. Clair was held on January 5, 1993. The following visionaries were listed in the official Board Directory dated December 1993.

James Bennett Judy Casturo James Davison John Dell Ray Gergich Michael Giglotti Thomas Harshman Thomas Henderson Chester Kent Richard Kleid Charlotte McDaniel Aleen Mathews Clark Nicklas* Richard Purnell R. Thomas Ramsey Marlene Rankin* Clifford Rowe John Small Linda Serene* Stephen Todorovich Robert L. T. Walsh James Yard *signers of the Articles of Incorporation, December 31, 1992

CFUSC Salutes a Community Leader Did you know that James Bennett has worked for the Upper St. Clair School District for 50 years? He taught USCHS band for 35 years and was also a curriculum leader. For the past 15 years he has worked as manager of the high school theater and for more than 36 years he has conducted the Community Band South, a group which he founded. Jim was one of the visionaries who launched CFUSC back in 1993. He was the catalyst for the formation of a long standing partnership with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. He also hosted the John Houseman Acting Company, artist P. Buckley Moss, the Pittsburgh Dance Alloy and Folkorico Ollimpaxqui Ballet Company to perform in our community, and brought in performances by Marvin Hamlisch, Barry Manilow, Spyro Gyra, and many others, all to raise funds so the Foundation could support dozens and dozens of significant opportunities for the schools and township. He served on the CF Board continuously, alternating terms between Trustee, and Fine and Performing Arts Chair, from 1993-2018. James Bennett, we salute you for not only your professional service as an educator, but also for the inspiration and commitment you have shared with the entire Upper St. Clair Township as a community volunteer and leader.

Book Club Continuing Online in 2021 Send your book suggestions to bookclub@cfusc.org and plan to join us in the new year.

Blanket Sales Continue With a limited supply available, with Delivery Options we hope you will place your order

before they are all gone! This spirit item is different from all of the rest with its soft, silky, and plushy feel. It is warm, attractive, and extralarge. It is also machine washable and comes in a sturdy plastic storage bag. These blankets make great gifts for the whole family. For more information, go to the CF website at www.cfusc.org.

Foundation Welcomes New Members Community volunteer Bruce Nelson is the newest member of the Community Foundation Board of Trustees. Bruce volunteers his time and business expertise, and also offers his perspective on raising children in the township. He has had many diverse experiences in his business career that provide relevant perspective for the Foundation. Welcome aboard, Bruce!

Bruce Nelson

Junior Trustees Join Board

Eileen Guo Winter 2020

Katherine Li

Anastasia Watts

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Green Space Sees More Visitors Lindsay Dill, Allegheny Land Trust, Marketing Communications Director While this year brought about unprecedented changes, challenges, and expectations, we at Allegheny Land Trust (ALT) are heading into this winter with a sense of hope for the future and the appreciation for the great outdoors. ALT has not only seen an increase in visitors to our own and other green spaces close to our homes, we’ve also received data from supporters like you confirming the same. More than 80% of participants in a survey we conducted about green space visitation during the pandemic said that they have visited green spaces more regularly than they typically would have this time of year, and more than 75% have said they’ve noticed an increase in other visitors to their regular green space locations. Our survey isn’t the only report finding that people are flocking to the outdoors during these uncertain times. According to a U.S. Mobility Report conducted by Google’s location services, visitation to U.S. parks saw an increase of 86% nationwide and a 152% increase in Pennsylvania between May and July 2020! While we were unable to host many of ALT’s regularly scheduled in-person events due to health safety concerns, we did accomplish quite a bit of work at our Wingfield Pines conservation area. This year’s Hamm intern, Joshua Weiland, orchestrated the removal of many invasive plants, the planting and management of many other native plants and trees, and had conversations with many explorers who were spending leisurely time at Wingfield Pines. If you’ve been by since August, you’ll also have noticed a new roadside sign and four new interpretive signs along Wingfield’s trails. We hope these improvements make both the wildlife and increased volume of users excited to explore the site. In the not-so-distant future, we look forward to sharing time together on this wonderful property. Until then, we hope you’ll continue supporting Wingfield Pines and ALT’s efforts to maintain, improve, and protect more close-to-home green space. n

Stay Engaged this Winter Looking for ways to stay engaged while staying warm and cozy this winter season? Check out ALT’s Facebook Video Archive for free, online lessons from ALT’s senior director of Education and Curriculum Julie Travaglini on the following topics for all ages: • Backyard Birds • Who’s That Bug • Butterflies 101 • Backyard Composting 101 • Spring Wild Edibles • Create a Backyard Habitat • All About Hummingbirds

• Create a Dollar Store Hydroponics System • Make Your Own Nature Journal • Make Your Own Nature Kaleidoscope • Owl Pellet Dissection • All About Owls, Snakes, and Frogs of Pennsylvania

From critters of the dirt to creatures of the sky, there’s so much to learn in our webinar archive, and ALT will be coming out with more online lessons and DIY guides. Keep checking ALT’s Eventbrite and Facebook page for more.

Wingfield Pines Events December 2020

Skating at Wingfield Pines 80

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Winter 2020

December 2 5–6 p.m.

Winter Warriors: How Wildlife Survives Winter webinar (@ Virtual)

December 19 8–10 a.m.

Christmas Bird Count (@ Wingfield Pines)

Find more ALT event information and registration at the following case-sensitive link: http://bit.ly/altoutside.

Benefitting Neighbors in Need

#HP3663 PA Contractor #069727

Celebrate the South Hills with SHIM @home South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) hosted its annual community event this past September to celebrate advocates and raise funds to support its work. The evening included a silent auction with mobile bidding and appearances by notable neighbors. Due to COVID-19 and social distancing restrictions, the typically in-person event was hosted virtually this year. As the pandemic ravaged the South Hills community, SHIM stepped up in unprecedented ways to provide food to those in need through drive-thru food pantries and mass distribution events. Fundraising dollars from this annual event are critical in helping the community receive meals and housing and mortgage relief, and preparing students for the school year. With the support of the community, SHIM continues to aid the South Hills community and raised $140,222 during this philanthropic evening. n

Selling your home? Most home sales now require sewer line inspection Sewer Cleaning Camera Inspection Sewer & Drain Repair

Don't Dig - Call Us Today 1-844-MR-SEWER

SHIM is a human services organization dedicated to improving the lives of people in need across the South Hills. SHIM aims to empower individuals and families to achieve stability and self-sufficiency by offering shortterm help with basic needs and longer-term support to help people build and sustain promising futures.

Sell? Sell Ads? Sell Ads for USC TODAY? Fun! Contact TODAY at 412-833-1600, x2284, or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us to learn more.

New Location! Headquarters 110 Valley Brook Road McMurray, PA 15317

Winter 2020

Equipment Yard 3003 South Park Road Bethel Park, PA 15102

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Ready, Fire, Aim! Jay Lynch

Back in the ’80s, a few car models had gas caps that were under hinged license plates near the rear bumper. While I was filling my tank at a self-service gas station, I noticed an older lady struggling with a gas hose, trigger handle, and the hinged plate. I told her I had experience with the process. She thanked me and handed me the hose handle. I confidently pulled the plate down, inserted the nozzle into the gas tank, and squeezed the trigger. She was standing beside me, smiling. Until she noticed that her shoes and stockings were getting wet. In my haste to be a hero, I’d completely missed the gas tank tube and was pumping gas, full force, against the rear car frame, where it was splashing backward and soaking her, knees to toes. I babbled apologetic words and offered to pay for her gas and buy her new shoes. But, she was miffed, and said, “No thank you,

young man. You’ve done quite enough!” So much for my attempt at being a Good Samaritan. Given my aim with a nozzle, it’s a wonder that my wife and I have three children. n How fun to remember the past! Share your thoughts about this short article with Jay at bkefather@yahoo.com.

Swift Stands on Its Strong Foundation Debra Swift, BC-HIS, and Lauren Carmen, AuD Swift Audiology has survived a recession, the aftermath of 9/11, and now we are continuing to serve our patients through the current global pandemic. We are grateful that for 34 years, our providers and staff have helped individuals gain back what untreated hearing loss has caused them over time. Once fit with hearing aids, patients report numerous benefits, including: • An improved sense of confidence and wellbeing • More zest for life by overcoming feelings of depression and isolation • Feeling joy about the ability to engage with co-workers, friends, and family (especially with grandchildren!) • The experience of freedom and independence • An improved sense of balance • Noticeable improvement in engaging in conversations and hearing in real time rather than feeling exhausted over straining to understand • Mental sharpness through improvement in memory, recollection, and cognitive function Overall, our patients feel like their old selves again! What built Swift Audiology? • Good old fashion service • Professional care by highly qualified people • Standing by our word and sticking to the facts • Creating an individualized plan catered to each patient’s lifestyle and needs, 82

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including the ability to “test drive” the products before making any commitments • Offering the latest in cutting-edge technology at every price range to help with any budget • Interest-free financing, without down payments • Yearly comprehensive hearing evaluations and verification testing, ensuring your devices are optimally treating your hearing needs • Ongoing care to provide longevity and the greatest benefit from each hearing instrument, including reprogramming to accommodate changes in your hearing overtime • Remote care telehealth fittings and adjustments During the last 34 years, hearing needs have not changed. We understand that people expect the same things they always have—the best bang for their buck, good hearing benefit, honesty, integrity, and the help from a professional who cares about their results. Today, there are countless ads for low cost hearing aids on the television, Internet, in magazines, and in big box stores. These advertisements have been out there for many years, but the stigma of wearing hearing aids has diminished and the importance that amplification has on brain function and memory is undeniable. The greatest change that has occurred is the creation of managed hearing care Winter 2020

plans through insurance companies. These discount plans include very limited service for a short period of time. In most cases, it will cost a patient more money over time for continual service to keep these less expensive hearing devices cleaned and programmed. The plans can also limit service locations and institute cap rates, thus further restricting the end user. It is the insurance companies, or third parties, that establish the plans that make them money, rather than the provider you go to. This can create a structure based on profit rather than patient-centered care. If people opt not to pay for servicing their devices, the aids that are performing poorly will, most likely, end up shoved in a drawer. The fact is, patients need to have their hearing aids cleaned on a regular basis (due to wax, perspiration, dead skin and hair follicles, oils on your hands, and dirt) and updated as their hearing needs change over time. Needed will be changes or repairs in receivers, domes, and wax and microphone guards. Without these services and updates, the aid performance diminishes rather quickly. If you order through the mail, Internet, or TV, these types of services may not be provided. Mailing aids back and forth will be costly, both in valuable time without your device and money. Regain what you’ve been missing— your hearing! n Schedule your no obligation test drive by calling Swift Audiology at 412-274-7285. See ad on page 83.

Swift Audiology

the smart choice for hearing care • No crowds: Our offices are set up for easy social distancing with your own private waiting, testing, and fitting rooms • Patient health pre-screening before appointments • Complete sanitation after each appointment • Curbside service from the comfort of your own car

Blue Rain Born of mystic waters Pearly drops through our souls. Connected in ways uncertain Clouds above, light extends below. Awash in water, far away Spirits come alive, so true. In the rivers, in the rain, Brilliant blue me and you.

• Video consultations from home using your cell phone or computer

Cry often, suffering pain Desperate search, silent and alone. Enlightenment, our goal Life’s trials we atone. Joy intertwines with despair Tears fall as smiles break through. The past cast away, the future unaware For eternal present holds true. CURBSIDE SERVICE FROM YOUR CAR

Improve Your Hearing With

Blue, blue rain wash away our pain. From life built up, scattered ’round. Hold tight, let it rain Rooted deep, on higher ground. Today it’s time to share, to be Infinite rivers and rain and sea. Take my hand, together you and me Soft blue rain falls, through eyes closed we see. —Ron Morosky

The risk-free way to try hearing aids with no deposit or commitment required

Call (724) 755-4268 to schedule an appointment

Serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area Ron shares, “Having grown up around water, with its life-supporting properties, this poem was written while experiencing a summer storm, when rain clouds quickly developed among the blue sky. Mystical, it inspired words of healing.”

4 Locations Serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area Allison Park | North Hills | South Hills | Washingston www.swiftaudiology.com

Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Red Rock amphitheater

g in h l ve wit a Y Tr A D O T

Flying into the mile-high city of Denver, Colorado, a handLeft to right: Bryan Shellenberger, Graham Gillen, ful of USC residents left the Great Kathy Parry, Paige Gillen, Patrick Schmitz, Mary Plains for the Rocky Mountains and Dan Repischak on a two-hour excursion west to Breckenridge. Started in 1961 by three Norwegians, the town’s ski resort revitalized the downward spiral of this 1859 gold mining town. Exploring lively Main Street masked and hiking at 10,000 feet above sea level were some of the active adventures. Enroute to “Breck,” a stop to Red Rock amphitheater in Morrison allowed for exceptional views of this natural sandstone wonder, where many iconic musicians have performed. A day trip to the small town of Frisco provided enjoyment of the local art and culture, and the changing colors of the Aspens intertwined throughout the evergreen mountains proved exceptionally beautiful at this time of year. But the best reason to be in Colorado in October of 2020 was to celebrate Breathtaking was an October view of the snow barren the engagement of Paige Gillen (USC Class of 2012) to Patrick Schmitz, ski slopes, with blue skies overhead, an Aspen in the a Miami of Ohio merger. TODAY was thrilled to be a part of this special foreground, and a small dose of snow on the mountain caps occasion! n

The last weekend in August, four Upper St. Clair moms took TODAY along on a camping adventure to Potter County. Kirstan Boettger, Ashley Collins, Katie Perrotti, and Kerry Turner spent two nights camping at Cherry Springs State Park, which is widely known for its dark night skies. Unfortunately, the nights were cloud covered and did not provide the anticipated brilliance. But, rest assured, the days were filled with hiking, swimming, and geocaching. On the way home, the group visited the Coudersport Ice Mine, which was at the tail end of its season. The ice mine, located in the side of a hill, is completely sheltered from the sun and wind. Each year, ice begins to form in April, holds for approximately six months, and is usually Instructions for Traveling with TODAY completely melted by October. The last stop of the weekend adventure Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information. • Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his was to Kinzua Bridge State Park, where At the Coudersport Ice Mine, pictured or her TODAY magazine. left to right: Kirstan Boettger, Ashley the foursome bravely walked out on the • Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including Collins, Katie Perrotti, Kerry Turner skywalk. The Kinzua Viaduct, when first required information (see below) in the body of the email. constructed in May 1882, was the highest • List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and longest viaduct in the world. Steam-driven trains continued to cross the and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or staybridge until 2002. In 2003, the bridge partially collapsed under the 100-mileat-home project. • Include email address or phone number should further an-hour winds of a tornado. After extensive repair, the state reopened the contact be necessary. spectacular skywalk in 2011 that allows the public to “walk the tracks across • Email information to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with the sky.” The bridge contains a small glass-bottomed observation deck for “TODAY” listed in subject line. the truly brave at heart. Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature The four women have already booked their 2021 return trip for May, and section will remain on file for upcoming editions until are hoping for clear night skies and to see the Ice Mine in all its glory. n published.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

2020 Alicia Massinople-Scott

January 1, 2020–Happy New Year! Merriment spilling over from the festive holiday season. The joyous anticipation of a fresh start, goals achieved, a slimmer waistline, a new job. Glasses of good cheer raised in high hopes of an even more exceptional year than the last. February 2020–Uncertainty echoing from televisions, radios, social media. Something is out there, stealthily charting a course to all comfort zones. An uneasiness is enveloping the world. Grey shadows moving in disjointed patterns beyond every shoreline, impossible to capture the image of this phantom. March 2020–In a blink, doors are closing—restaurants, arenas, places of learning, places of worship—and, finally, the doors of each and every house shut tight against the menacing threat. With little warning, the world outside the front door is quiet. Streets without the hum of motors, gyms without the sound of clanging weights, schools without the chatter of students and teachers, and places of worship with no voices rising up in harmony. The outside world is hushed, almost peaceful. Wildlife is in abundance, travelling in groups to previously unchartered territories. Having no fear of the phantom, the threat of man is on hold. All the while, the shadow is present, patrolling the world with a watchful eye, ready to squelch any attempt of resurrecting life as it was previously known. For now, waiting is the only option.

Early Summer 2020–The phantom has settled in with no plans of moving on. After all, it’s everywhere. Effortlessly having crossed the expanse of oceans, mountain ranges, hemispheres, invading like a covert sniper, lingering like a bad dream, conjuring up images that haunt day and night... it remains. Late Summer 2020–Something is different. Resilience begins to shine through, however dim at first. Tentatively but deliberately, doors are opening. Baby steps made to what was before the arrival of the intruder. Slowly, the inside world merges into the fresh, undisturbed air of the outside. The world is reawakening. Life is moving at a steady pace, though not quite as frenetic as before. Fall 2020–The phantom’s effect is weakening. It is no less sinister, but the underdog is now cloaked with the power of knowledge; growing stronger, feeling hopeful. The light is visible on the other end of what was for so long, an endless tunnel of terror. Hope is on the horizon, faith is in the forefront, and reverence for life has prevailed. December 31, 2020–Another Auld Lang Syne. Cheers! n Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Serving Upper St. Clair Churches and Synagogues

Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair 2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467

Berean Fellowship Church 300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township—412-220-4673

Peace Lutheran Church 107 Carol Drive, McMurray—724-941-9441

Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1168

Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-3635

Beth-El Bethany Lutheran Church 5303 Madison Avenue, Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-835-9221

Ruthfred Lutheran Church 3410 South Park Rd., Bethel Park—412-835-7140 St. David’s Episcopal Church 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-4060

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville—412-221-5132 Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0405 Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100

Brightwood Christian Church 5044 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park—412-835-6703 Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050

South Hills Church of the Nazarene 5601 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-831-6333

Christ United Methodist Church 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6621

South Hills Community Baptist Church 2400 Old Washington Road—412-833-1313

Congregation Ahavath Achim (The Carnegie Shul) 500 Chestnut Street, Carnegie—412-279-1566

South Hills Interfaith Movement 5301 Park Avenue, Bethel Park—412-854-9120

Corpus Christi Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213

Temple Emanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7600

Corpus Christi Crossroads Church 1120 Boyce Road—412-494-9999

The Bible Chapel 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray—724-941-8990

Faith Lutheran Church of Upper St. Clair 80 Bartley Road—412-835-4590

The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (aka Sunnyhill) 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-6277

First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700 First Church of Christ, Scientist 1100 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-1125

John McMillan Presbyterian Church 875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-833-4704 Mt. Lebanon Christian Church 367 Cedar Blvd., Mt. Lebanon—412-531-8554 Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661 86

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1066 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-7153

South Hills Assembly 2725 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-8900

Christ Community Church of the South Hills 2807 Bethel Church Rd., Bethel Park—412-519-4097

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox 123 Gilkeson Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-833-3355

St. Louise de Marillac Roman Catholic Church 320 McMurray Road—412-833-1010

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 126 Fort Couch Road—412-833-0031

Chabad of the South Hills 1701 McFarland Road, Pittsburgh—412-344-2424

Hillside Christian Community 1050 Campbells Run Road, Carnegie—412-279-2996

St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800 St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-6275

Bower Hill Community Church 70 Moffett Street, Mt. Lebanon—412-561-4114

Good Shepherd Church 110 Hays Road—724-941-9418

St. George Orthodox Church 3230 Washington Pike, Bridgeville—412-221-2277

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630 If we’ve overlooked your information, have incorrect information, or if you would like your Upper St. Clair facility to be represented in our magazine with an article, please write to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us. For an online version, visit www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home and find “Serving Upper St. Clair” under the “Features” section of the “Past Issues” sub-directory. (Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.)

Winter 2020

Town Hall South Speaker Series Postponed for One Year With the COVID-19 pandemic still a public health risk, Town Hall South’s 52nd season has been postponed until fall 2021. Town Hall South’s board decided that postponing the season for one year would be the best way to ensure the health and safety of their audience, while still providing the opportunity for them to see and hear nationally and internationallyknown speakers, live and in person, here in the South Hills. The entire slate of speakers for 2020–21 agreed to move their scheduled appearances to the 2021–22 season. This group includes Dan Rather, Kevin Surace, Leon Logothetis, Richard Stengel, and Dr. Temple Grandin. Tickets that have been purchased for this season’s series will be honored next season. Town Hall South has been bringing eminent people in the fields of the arts, literature, science, travel, humor, entertainment, and politics to the South Hills for more than a half century. According to board chair Janette Simmons Clements, “The series has been successful because of the educated populace of the area who enjoy learning new ideas. We take pride in being able to offer this level of cultural stimulation to residents all over the South Hills.” In addition, Town Hall South is a philanthropic organization and donates a portion of its proceeds to a wide variety of local charitable organizations. Founded in 1969 as an outreach program of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Upper St. Clair, it continues its strong tradition as an independently-run lecture series overseen by a dedicated group of volunteers. Lectures and book signings take place on Tuesday mornings at 10:10 a.m. in the Upper St. Clair High School’s state-of-the-art theater. For an additional fee, a limited number of tickets are available for a luncheon at St. Clair Country Club with a Q&A session immediately following each event. n

For further information, visit www.townhallsouth.org.

Wishing our

readers

a happy holiday season

filled with treasured times!

Identifying Autism in Girls Dr. Tanya Banda, Strong Foundations Psychological Associates

Did you know that boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls? That is one in 34 boys compared to one in 144 girls. Is that because boys are more likely to have autism or is it because there is a problem with how we detect autism in girls? Research has demonstrated the criteria we use to identify autism are based on characteristics that are more commonly found in boys with autism. This results in girls with autism (particularly those with milder symptoms) being identified much later or not at all. We know early identification and intervention for children with autism make huge differences in their development, and unfortunately girls are all too often overlooked and missing out on the help they need. So why are girls more difficult to identify? In addition to diagnostic criteria being male-centric, girls with autism don’t stick out as much as boys with autism. Girls with autism are often described as shy or anxious as opposed to boys with autism who are more often hyperactive or impulsive. Socially, autistic girls tend to be more tuned-in. They learn to mimic appropriate social interactions and are more likely to figure out how to fit in. However, this camouflaging often comes at the expense of their mental health. As was recently described by a client, “Faking it all day long is exhausting.” Overly narrow interests and repetitive behaviors, hallmarks of autism, can also look quite different in boys than in girls. In boys, these interests can be much narrower and more unusual. Girls, however, often have restricted interests that are more gender-conforming or expected, such as fashion, music, and movies, making them harder to recognize. As girls grow and continue to struggle with undiagnosed autism, they often develop internalizing disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and/or low self-esteem, and they are at greater risk for being bullied. Camouflaging becomes more difficult as social interactions become more complex. Anxiety and depression then can become the focus of intervention, with little support being provided for the underlying challenges that come with autism. When parents are informed about what to look for, they can help to ensure their daughters’ strengths are recognized and that they get the help they deserve. Some common traits in girls with autism can include being controlling in play with peers, struggling with reciprocal play, keen attention to detail, perfectionistic tendencies with accompanying disorganization, intense focus on special interests, being extremely shy, intensely wanting to socialize but not knowing how to make connections, sensory sensitivities (e.g., temperature, texture, sounds), having extreme reactions to seemingly trivial events (e.g., changes in routines), and having difficulty controlling emotions, to name a few. If you think your daughter has been misdiagnosed or unidentified, there are steps you can take at any age to help her thrive. Contact a child psychologist in your community to learn more about the tests and assessments that can provide you with the clarity and recommendations you need to best help your daughter. n Dr. Tanya Banda is a licensed psychologist at Strong Foundations Psychological Associates. She provides comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and young adults, with a specialty in identifying autism. For more information about her work, visit sfpgh.com.

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Calabro Tire & Auto Service (412) 221-4300 www.calabrotire.com 1476 Bower Hill Rd. Family Owned Since 1941

Safe refers to wet braking when tires are new and worn to 3/32”. All tires eventually wear out and should be replaced. Based on internal wet braking tests from 50 MPH using new tires and tires buffed to 3/32” in tire size 235/55R18 on a 2020 Toyota RAV4 against the Continental® CrossContact™ LX25 and the Goodyear® Assurance® WeatherReady®; and in size 215/55R17 on a 2019 Toyota Camry against the Bridgestone® Turanza™ QuietTrack™ tire and the Continental® PureContact™ LS tire; using the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire. Actual on-road results may vary.

Based on third-party snow traction tests using ASTM Test Method F1805-12, using tires buffed to 3/32” remaining tread depth. When compared to Standard Reference Test Tire (SRTT), in size 235/55R18 the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire scored 93 compared against the Continental® CrossContact™ LX25 tire, which scored 63, and the Goodyear® Assurance® WeatherReady® tire, which scored 65; and when compared to SRTT, in size 215/55R17 the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire scored 90 when compared against the Bridgestone® Turanza™ QuietTrack™, which scored 62, and the Continental® PureContact™ LS, which scored 59. Actual on-road results may vary. Copyright © 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm; Sat. 8am - noon Winter 2020

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Advertiser Index Winter 2020

www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home Advanced Surgical Hospital .................................................................... 71

* Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ...................................... 73

Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ..........................................................................2

* Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ........................................................ 47

Asbury Heights ....................................................................................... 72

* Manalo, Larry E., DMD ............................................................................ 47

* Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ....3

Mister Sewer ........................................................................................... 81

Biedrzycki, John A., Esq.–Steel City Lawyer ....................Front Cover, 10, 11

Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................... 69

* Brookside Lumber ................................................................................... 85

Movement Mortgage–Kevin O’Laughlin ................................................. 69

* Calabro Tire & Auto Service ..................................................................... 87

OTB Bicycle Café ...................................................................................... 23

Chartiers Bend Retirement Resort .......................................................... 75

* Pinebridge Commons Associates ............................................................ 47

Clubhouse Cards ..................................................................................... 22

* Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community .......................... 70

* Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ............................................................. 75

* Rusmur Floors .................................................................. Inside back cover

Coldwell Banker–Dora Rudick ................................................................. 69

* St. Clair Hospital ..................................................................................5, 46

* Coldwell Banker–South Hills Office ...............................Outside back cover

St. Clair Plastic Surgery Associates .......................................................... 73

* Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................. 65

* Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .............................................................. 17

Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 85

* Sesame Inn ............................................................................................. 25

Thank you to our many advertisers who so generously support the TODAY magazine and to our volunteer writers who provide wonderful stories of interest. This publication continues to thrive because of both! —UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Staff and Steering Committee

* Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 41

Shear Integrity Salon & Spa..................................................................... 26

G’s Landscape, LLC .................................................................................. 63

South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1

G’s Window and Gutter Cleaning ............................................................ 87

Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ....................................................7

George Girty Landscape Design .............................................................. 69

* State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ....................................................... 75

Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling .................................. 17

Swift Audiology ....................................................................................... 83

Hastings South Fayette–Charter Homes & Neighborhoods .......................9

Torrente Apartment Homes ..................................................................... 27

* Howard Hanna–USC Office .............................................. Inside front cover

Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................... 47

* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ............................................................... 41

* Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ............................ 15

J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ........................ 37

YogaSix South Hills ................................................................................. 25

Let guide you with great ad placement.

Give us a call!

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

Looking Ahead...

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 52 issues. Thank you!

412-833-1600 x 2284 | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us | www.twpusc.org /magazine-usc-today-home | www.15241.today UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair 88

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2020

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh PA Permit No. 206

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

This magazine was printed on recycled paper.

W e

Hope Bassichis

Noel Bliman

M o v e

Mary Lou Borchert

Anita Crago

u p p e r

Lynn Dempsey

s t .

c l a i r

Leanne Dresmich

John Geisler

Leigh Harkreader

Judy Hlister

Sandi Lamar

Maria Lane

Dora Rudick

Kathy Sekeras

Brad Templeton

Carmela Viviano

Faith Williard

Jane York

YOU HOME FOR It’sGUIDING Our Turn 113 YEARS. to Serve You Florine Kelly

Kathi Kernan

WE’RE THE REAL ESTATE COMPANY THAT SHINES LIKE NO OTHER. Julie Leslie

Heather Linz

Diane Snyder

Jennifer Solomon

Jim Walsh

Sandy Weidt

Coldwell Banker® is helping military families receive $350-$7,500 * in cash back or rewards when they buy and/or sell a home. If you’d like additional details, please ask any of these Coldwell Banker agents for more information.

Mary Ann Wellener

Julie Welter

ColdwellBankerHomes.com/southhills South Hills | 1630 Washington Road | Pittsburgh, PA 15241 | 412.833.5405 *The cash back bonus is offered in most states. In some states, a gift card or commission reduction at closing may be provided in lieu of the cash back bonus. The program is not available for employer-sponsored relocations or transactions in Iowa or outside the United States. The cash back bonus is not available in Alaska, Louisiana and Oklahoma. In Kansas and Tennessee, a MasterCard MAX gift card will be issued. In Mississippi, New Jersey and Oregon, a commission reduction may be available at closing. The cash back bonus is only available with the purchase and/or sale of your home through the use of a programintroduced real estate agent. The actual amount you receive is based on the purchase/and or sale price of your home. All real estate commissions are negotiable. Other terms and conditions may apply. This is not a solicitation if you are already represented by a real estate broker. Please check with a program coordinator for details. Program terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without notice. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC 20380U_PIT_9/20 and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Milo Hindman Manager