FALL 2005

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1

For more than 12 years, Single Source Benefits, Inc. (SSB) has provided a dynamic variety of services to all sizes of companies. As an employee benefits broker, they have access to nearly every insurance and investment company across the country, so clients get the very best programs tailored to their specific needs.

With more than 5000 clients in Pennsylvania and surrounding states, their expertise, experience, and service speaks for itself. Clients are able to have their health insurance, retirement plans, and property and casualty insurance managed by one company.

How it Began

Glenn Wells, owner of SSB, grew up in Bethel Park and began his career in insurance after graduating from Washington & Jefferson College in 1988. He began working out of his home, then in Peters Township. Glenn started with Aetna Insurance Company and worked with many other insurance companies as he continued in the business. Early in his career, he realized the frustration many clients experienced when dealing with multiple insurance companies, each of whom represented a specific policy for the client. Glenn decided to build an all-encompassing agency with the ability to meet all of his clients’ needs under one roof.

Glenn purchased another agency in 2000 and moved his operations into those offices located next to Outback Steak House on McMurray Road. Glenn now had five employees and space was limited. He began to look for alternative office space knowing that he wanted to stay in this convenient area. Considering both the rental market and purchasing a building, Glenn’s wife, Susan, came across a building for sale on Mayview Road. The building was residential, but it was zoned for commercial use.

Purchasing 1220 Mayview Road

Glenn and Susan looked at the building, and at first glance they thought the space was great for relocating their offices.

The price was right, too! So the process began, which Susan headed up. The architectural firm of James Sampey and Associates, located in USC, was hired.

This firm was chosen because of its local 2

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

connections and James knew the USC system well.

Regardless, it still took nearly eight months of zoning hearings, ADA compliance issues, parking lot issues, etc., until the remodel was ready to begin.

The hard part was over; the fun began. The remodel started in August 2003, and took only four months to complete since the majority of work inside was cosmetic. The old garage, a two-car space that had an outside breezeway connecting it to the main house, was enclosed and glass block was used to make a wall on one side and a doorway wall on the other. Glass block was also used to enclose the space where the garage door used to be. Since the garage ceiling was already exposed, a dramatic cathedral ceiling was constructed. This space became two offices, one for Glenn, the other for support staff.

A kitchen was located in the basement area with a dishwasher, full-size refrigerator, and garbage disposal. The full bath, which was located in the basement, remained. A halfbath on the main floor complies with ADA standards and another half-bath is located on the second floor. Three offices are also located on the second floor as well as a small conference/meeting room. Glenn’s office is quite large and is able to accommodate a four-person meeting table.

Two additional offices, plus a workroom, are located on the main level. The basement is large, and can accommodate more office space. When the original plans for the structure and surrounding area were submitted, an additional 3000 square-foot, freestanding structure was approved in the original plans if additional office space is needed.

Glenn and Susan purchased two lots, which they joined together to create green space. The parking lot and sign take up some of that space, but landscaping is a major part of the site plan as well. Next door neighbor to SSB, Eli Brenlove, owner of Fairfield Landscaping, landscaped the grounds. He and his crew helped to create the plans and still maintain the property today.

The move-in date was December 26, 2003. Winter in Pittsburgh is not necessarily a great time for a move, but it’s also an exhausting time if you have a four- and two-year-old at home. While Susan headed the project, Glenn worked and also spent many an evening watching the kids. The remodel went quickly and the commute back and forth to the new building was a little easier since the family lives in USC’s Trotwood Hills community.

Employees of SSB

Scott Krieger is a specialist in commercial, property, and auto insurance, as well as homeowner’s insurance and other personal lines. Scott, a graduate of Penn State University, has more than eight years of experience in the insurance

industry and works with companies and individuals to Integrating employee ensure they are fully protectbenefit packages, ed in the event of a loss.

A resident of Bethel Park, he insurance needs and came to work at SSB in 2003.

Scott is married and has two investments via one children. single source.

John Wells, Glenn’s brother, started working for SSB in November 2004. John, who has worked in sales for more than 20 years, has established himself with past clients as a thorough and competent salesperson. With most of his experience and background in building products, he lends a different perspective to the business. John, a graduate of Fairmont State University in West Virginia, is a resident of Mt. Lebanon. He is married and has three children.

There are several support and customer relations staff personnel who work in the office. Karen Frankfort has been involved in the business for more than 12 years and Diane Muraco, a USC resident, has been with SSB for nearly one year. Both women are internal account managers and assist with customer services.

Glenn’s wife, Susan, who, for ten years, worked in the marketing field prior to starting a family, is now keeping the books and doing marketing for SSB. In Closing

Single Source Benefits and its owners, Glenn and Susan Wells, are entrenched in the USC community, both as owners of a business located in the township, and as residents as well. They love the South Hills area—the convenience to the city, shopping, and highway access.

When looking for a place to locate the business, this area and their needs were a perfect fit.

Single Source Staff, left to right: Diane Muraco, John Wells, Scott Krieger, Glenn Wells, Susan Wells, Karen Frankfort Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

3

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Fall 2005

• Volume 11

•

Issue 3

Features and Around the Township 14

Steve Blass—Still Pitching for the Pirates An interview with Pirates legend turned broadcaster.

16

Letters to TODAY Something to say? Let us know.

21

Knowing Your Neighborhood A home on Bridge Street ties together generations of families.

45

Trotwood Hills Book Club

55

OM team competes in Colorado

72

Reaching out to southwest Florida

76

USCene captures smiles at Community Day 2005

Reading, conversation, friendship, and food—what more could a woman want?

70

Townhall South Presents its 37th Lecture Series Season Fulfilling its mission of delivering outstanding speakers and supporting community causes.

Township 32

Township Receives Grants Grant money for two projects is awarded to Upper St. Clair.

34

2005 Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy Coming this Fall Take advantage of this special opportunity!

35

Township Bulletin Board Find out what’s happening in our Township’s departments.

37

Library Enhancements Funded by Friends Friends’ donations lead to additional programs and resources at Township Library.

38

October is Fire Safety Month Fire prevention and fire safety—simple steps to protect you and your family.

School District 51

USCHS Class of 2005 Superintendent’s Graduation Speech Dr. James Lombardo imparts the importance of choice.

53

Township and School District Join Forces The issue of underage drinking and drug use brings together over 200 residents.

54

Phonemic Awareness Hear the difference.

55

Odyssey of the Mind This wonderful USC extracurricular program had its best year yet!

62

Did You Know?

Information about our schools, our teachers, and our students.

Advertising Guides 10 22 42 46

Dining Health and Wellness Pinebridge Commons Life Planning

Cover 2

This cover of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is underwritten by Single Source Benefits, Inc., a provider of diversified insurance and financial products located in Upper St. Clair. See pages 2 and 3 for a feature article. Article design by Stonewood Graphics, Inc. Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

5

Publishers

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township

Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools

and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here.

Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager Steering Committee Thomas A. Labanc School District Representative

The 43rd 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.

Mark S. Mansfield Senior Assistant Township Manager Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Paul K. Fox, Managing Editor Cindy Kane, Township Associate Editor Terry Kish, School District Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising Associate Nancy Beaulieu, Advertising Associate Kathy Christie, Advertising Associate Vince Yevins, Accountant A special thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Jon Burkett (YWG), Celia Christman, Jarred Cipriani (YWG), Kevin Clark, Laura Elliott (YWG), Natasha Ice, Wayne Herrod, J. Alice Lesica, Jim Meston, Joan Newman, Dawn Yoder.

We are pleased to have three articles from the youth of our community under our Young Writer’s Guild (YWG) banner.

If your name was inadvertently omitted, please accept our apology.

The 43rd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of this magazine, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of the Editor is strictly prohibited.

Angela B. Petersen, President Jeffrey W. Joyce, Vice President David E. Bluey Barbara L. Bolas Russ Del Re Glenn Groninger Vicki A. McKenna Clark R. Nicklas Mark G. Trombetta, M.D.

Frank E. Marsh, President, Ward 5 Robert W. Orchowski, Vice President, Ward 3 Preston Shimer, Ward 1 Gloria S. Smith, Ward 2 Ched Mertz, Ward 4 Bill Bates, At Large Ernest T. Harris, At Large

Political advertising and political commentary are not accepted. The publishers of this magazine reserve the right to reject advertising or articles inconsistent with the objectives, image and aesthetic standards of the magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is published and mailed quarterly to residents and businesses

in Upper St. Clair. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library. If you did not receive a copy in the mail, please call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Winter 2005 issue and will be published in November 2005. 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.

Subscription Information If you know someone living outside the Township who would enjoy receiving UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, please send $12 to cover mailing and handling for the next four issues with name and address, including zip code, to our address listed to the left. Add $10 to cover international mailings.

School District: 412-833-1600 Township: 412-831-9000 Printed by Pentagon Printing Corporation 18 West Steuben Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412-922-0422 • Fax: 412-922-2922 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Board of Commissioners

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan Township, School District, and community magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592

6

School Board Directors

Fall 2005

Deadline for articles and advertising for the Winter 2005 issue is September 1, 2005 Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 (email: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us) Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 (email: cdemarco@uscsd.k12.pa.us) fax: 412-851-2592 Visit our Website:

www.twpusc.org/magazine

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Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

7

1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Dr. James D. Lombardo

Douglas A. Watkins

Welcome to the 43rd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our Fall 2005 edition.

OK, it seems as if you’ve always gotten this magazine, and it comes (you think) a few times a year. You page through it quickly, walking from the mailbox, to see who you know. You scan articles that look interesting, which you promise to read later when you have the time. You notice an ad about home renovation. Committing the phone number to memory, you think about that project you want to undertake.

We know you don’t always have lots of leisure time to sit, read, and digest everything that this magazine has to offer, but we hope that when you do have the time to read, our magazine meets your expectations. We believe that there’s something in TODAY for everyone—information about our township and our schools, articles about our community and its residents, and enjoyable and light stories of interest. Spotted throughout the magazine are ads from both established and new businesses that financially support our publication.

Did you know that UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY has been producing a magazine for the past eleven years? The cooperative effort and support of the Township of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District to publish this magazine (since its inception in 1994) has never wavered because we think it’s a wonderful way to give local newsworthy information to our residents.

Did you also know that UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY relies mainly on a small staff of part-time employees who manage its operations, write, edit, photograph, and sell ads? But, we also depend on Upper St. Clair residents who voluntarily give of their time and talents in many ways, especially by offering great articles. We thank them for their continued efforts.

A list of the staff and volunteers of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is placed towards the front of each issue. Take a moment to see who is responsible for what you are reading.

Please remember that this publication is not a taxpayer expense; all of the costs associated with producing the magazine are met by ad-generated revenue. Subscription sales, to people living outside of Upper St. Clair who want to stay connected with the Township, also fund its operations.

How often do we produce a magazine? Thinking of the four seasons will help you to remember that we publish four times a year.

Now that you know a bit more about UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s purpose and its frequency of publication, we hope you’ll spend thoughtful time enjoying this issue, as well as the many more to come.

Have a great fall season!

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Dr. James D. Lombardo Superintendent of Schools

Douglas A. Watkins Township Manager

School District of Upper St. Clair 412-833-1600 Fax: 412-833-5535 Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us Email: info@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township of Upper St. Clair 412-831-9000 Fax: 412-831-9882 Website: www.twpusc.org Email: uscadmin@twpusc.org Fall 2005

Professional Landscape Services for Individuals and Businesses

by George Girty, B.L.A. ��������������������������

������������������������ 3555 Valley Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15234

GREAT AMERICAN LANDSCAPES DESIGN  BUILD  MAINTAIN Transforming visions and ideas into beautiful private worlds.

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Now in our 20th year of Quality, Service and Innovation

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412-835-3245

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August 29th 1-3 pm, 6-8 pm FALL classes begin in September!

412.257.2000

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hip hop

August 22nd

lyrical

August 15th

jazz

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Fall Registration & Open House

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dance@thomasdance.com

pointe

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The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, Inc.

www.thomasdance.com

gymnastics

1900 Painters Run Rd. Pgh., PA 15241

Cecilia Petursson USC Dance Team member Thomas Dance Co. member

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Fall Dining Guide

Sesame Inn

Gourmet Chinese Restaurant Treat your family to the award winning Best Chinese Restaurant Reservations recommended

FINEST CHINESE CUISINE

(412) 279-8088 Open 7 days

Open Labor Day

se e n i h C “Bessttaurant” Re

4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

1082 Bower Hill Rd. (next to St. Clair Hospital)

Pittsburgh, PA 15243

voted by the readers of • PITTSBURGH magazine 2003, 2004 and 2005 • Mt. Lebanon magazine • Post-Gazette • Tribune Review • Rated  by KDKA TV • Pittsburgh City Paper 2004

THE

CLASSROOM RESTAURANT

Lunch • Dinner Free Delivery • Carryout Banquet Facilities Gift Certificates McMurray 724-942-2888 Mt. Lebanon 412-341-2555 Station Square 412-281-8282 North Hills 412-366-1838

Perfect place for: Private Luncheons, Showers, Business Meetings, Weddings or Rehearsals American - Grill/Casual Dining Peters Township Dinner Tues-Sat, 5:00 –10:00 pm

724-942-4878

www.sesameinn.net 10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

2005

Fall 2005

GALLERIA of Mt. Lebanon For the Day or for an Hour You’re extraordinary… so why shop

the ordinary? The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon gives you a world of choices to complement your own sense of style. Frank Salucci, the mall’s general manager explains, “This is a one-shop destination where you can spend the day; start with breakfast, get your hair done, shop, take in a movie and then have dinner—all at one location.” The Galleria is truly an extraordinary mall located in the heart of South Hills.

The Galleria has 24 retail shops and seven restaurants, including the first unique concept restaurant Houlihans. “This is a combination of a stand-alone and free-standing restaurant which is the only franchise designed like this in the United States,” said Mr. Salucci. The Galleria also has a six-screen movie theater.

With an occupancy rate of 90%, the mall offers approximately 1300 free parking spaces, over half of which are indoor and sheltered from the weather. Cart rentals are

Fall Dining Guide

2005 NORTHERN ITALIAN RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

HOURS: Lunch Monday-Sat. 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM Dinner Monday-Sun. 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM Lounge Open Daily

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE “Ask About Our Preferred Guest Club” 3220 W. LIBERTY AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA 15216

412.561.0450 • 412.561.0452 FAX www.jamies3220.com available to tenants who would like to try a short-term lease from one month to several years before moving into a more permanent space. It’s cost affordable and “less expensive than a permanent retail space,” explains Mr. Salucci.

Mr. Salucci, a native of Morgantown, West Virginia, has been the Galleria’s general manager since August 2004. He previously was marketing director and then assistant manager of the Morgantown Mall before coming to the Galleria. He is a graduate of West Virginia University with a BFA in graphic design and also holds an Executive MBA. Exciting responsibilities for Mr. Salucci are the trend-setting events, shows, and exhibits that the Galleria offers to the public. One of his favorite events is the “Shop to Stop Domestic Violence” gala which will be held this November 6, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in conjunction with the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh for a one-night shop and party event. The mall is closed to the general public and then reopened for those purchasing a $50 benefit ticket to enjoy drinks, food, entertainment, bargain shopping, and an early holiday event while benefitting this great cause. The first

The Galleria’s general manager, Frank Salucci

annual event netted over $93,000. This year, management is hoping to double that amount with the anticipated, continued community support. Mr. Salucci is also hoping to sponsor a children’s health fair in the near future.

The Galleria, a 250,000 square-foot shopping center, was purchased by Continental Real Estate Company in 2002, and is now

owned by RREEF, a Chicago-based real estate investment company. Located at the former site of the freestanding Kaufmann’s department store building, it was converted into the retail development that we have today. Continental retains an equity stake in the property and serves as property manager. Continental has recently upgraded the facility with an over-tenmillion-dollar renovation project.

The mall’s new look offers comfort areas, such as the food court designed with couches, small tables, and chairs for dining on the upper level. On the lower level is the couch-to-couch and chair comfort area—a delight for those who come and relax. The professional and friendly maintenance staff, and the cleanliness of the mall add to the positive feedback received from local shoppers.

The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon invites you to shop an array of choices to complement your own sense of style. Whether you’re shopping for mom, dad, the kids, or something to make your house a home, you’ll find it all under one roof. If you haven’t been to the Galleria recently, it’s definitely worth the trip! 

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair “Building a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

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Harry Serene and Angela Petersen at Cultural Diversity Club’s “Breaking Down Cultural Barriers” benefit performance for Tsunami Relief.

Community Day parade— celebrating the Year of Languages.

Ray Johnson (right) with Community Day first place float winners

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Community Day

rs on the bridge

duck race spectato

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Fly tying demonstration at the fly fishing club expo held on April 2

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Community Day Chinese drag on float sponsored

by Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair.

d by Kids’ train and moon walk sponsore St. Clair.

Community Foundation of Upper

red d Pipers concert sponso Jimmy Dorsey and the Pie tion of Upper St. Clair.

by Community Founda

Community Foundation Contact Information Phone: 412-831-1107 12

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Fax: 412-257-4160

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

•

Website: www.mainstreetusc.com/cfusc

•

Email: cfusc@adelphia.net

U. S. House of Representatives Timothy F. Murphy

U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania 322 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-2301 Fax: 202-225-1844

504 Washington Road Pittsburgh, PA 15228 Phone: 412-344-5583 Fax: 412-429-5092

Website: http://murphy.house.gov/ E-mail: murphy@mail.house.gov

A New Generation of Coal Powering Pennsylvania Whether you are a computer engineer or a miner, if you live in Southwestern

Pennsylvania, you depend on coal. Your computer, the company you work for, your home, and your schools are powered by coal.

For decades coal was criticized because of its emissions. However, major developments in clean coal technology will expand the benefits of coal in more environmentally friendly ways.

Establishing a comprehensive national energy policy, which includes clean coal technology, is the first step in accomplishing this task.

On April 21, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6, The Energy Policy Act of 2005.

This is the fifth time in four years the House has passed a far-reaching energy bill beneficial

to Southwestern Pennsylvania, but each time it has been held up in the Senate. The clean coal initiatives included in the legislation will create jobs and promote new technology in the region.

The increased use of computers and appliances has caused the demand for energy to soar—expected to rise 53.4% over the next 25 years. Clean coal will help meet this need. We cannot afford to continue our dependence on foreign countries for oil and gas, allowing them to set prices. We have the solution to the energy problem right here in Pennsylvania, and it is called “coal.”

There are more than 250 years worth of coal energy in the ground of Southwestern Pennsylvania. It generates more than 55% of

Pennsylvania’s electricity and more than half of the nation’s electricity. Coal is America’s most abundant energy resource, but to take full advantage of it we need to reduce emissions.

Currently, the majority of power plants do not have adequate equipment for cleaning the air. Many plants have turned towards the use of natural gas, which in turn has led to less supply. Meanwhile, the average price has tripled over the past decade.

The increase in gas prices has cost 90,000 jobs in the chemical industry alone, and contributed to three million manufacturing job losses.

The Energy Policy Act includes $1.8 billion for the development of new clean coal technologies to increase the demand for coal and create 62,000 jobs across the country, from building new plants to mining coal. This includes 10,000 research jobs in the fields of math, engineering, physics, and science at an annual estimated salary of $125,000. Each job in the coal industry created in Pennsylvania will generate seven supporting jobs such as barge operators and train engineers.

An additional $2 billion included in the Energy Policy Act encourages the use of new equipment to better clean the air and higher-efficiency generation machinery, making the use of coal more environmentally friendly. This will lead to increased jobs for nearly every industry in the region.

Pennsylvania is already at the center of the country’s coal production thanks to the hardest-working, most dedicated workers in the world. Clean coal technology will allow the region to prosper and meet America’s energy needs for years to come. 

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

13

Still Pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates—#28 Steve Blass Wayne Herrod

ers

ld Series winn tes—1971 Wor

Pittsburgh Pira

The bottom of the ninth inning, two outs, and it’s the

seventh game of the 1971 World Series—the Pittsburgh Pirates vs. the Baltimore Orioles. Pittsburgh is leading two to one and Steve Blass has pitched a masterful four-hitter to this point. The count is one strike on the dangerous batter Merv Rettunmund, and one swing can tie this game up. Steve winds and delivers the pitch.

Rettunmund hits the ball past Blass, up the middle. Shortstop Jackie Hernandez glides to the left, fields the ball cleanly, and throws to first baseman Bob Robertson for the out. The Pirates win the game and the World Series!

This is what it probably sounded like over the airwaves, but to see what happened next was history. Steve ran and jumped into Robertson’s arms. He then turned and ran back towards catcher Manny Sanguillen. The picture of Steve leaping into the air towards Manny was captured by AP Photographer Rusty Kennedy and is one of the most famous sports pictures in Pittsburgh history.

I asked Steve how he managed to jump so high. Steve answered, “Total youthful exuberance.”

That moment was relived on June 8, 2005, when a bobble head, featuring both Steve and Manny, was given to all fans attending the Pirates vs. the Baltimore Orioles game at PNC Park.

The bobble head was the result of the efforts of Joe Billetdeaux, the Pirates director of licensing and promotions. Joe, a five-year resident of Upper St. Clair, is responsible for the development and promotional aspects of the Pirate organization.

Steve Blass, also an Upper St. Clair resident, was an outstanding major league pitcher. He won over 100 games and was selected to the National League All Star team during his career. He also won the third game of the 1971 World Series with a magnificent three-hit, five-to-one victory.

14

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

During a five year period, Steve’s record was 84–44 with an ERA of just over 3.00. Those statistics would earn a pitcher a multi-million dollar contract today. I asked Steve if this bothered him. With his sense of humor Steve answered, “Not at all.

They couldn’t fool us with money. We got out with our integrity.”

Steve Blass is truly a Pittsburgh Pirate forever.

Just out of high school, Steve signed with the Pirates in 1960. He pitched for the Pirates until the early 70s and began broadcasting for the Pirates in 1983. Steve has been an integral part of the broadcast team since then and has teamed with Lanny Frattare. I was able to observe them at the Rockies game on May 22. Lanny is the straight man, the play-byplay announcer. Steve is the color man who plays off Lanny with great insight and a sense of humor that doesn’t stop. The two of them never miss a beat. This year, Steve cut his work schedule back to home games only (81 games) so he can spend more time with his wife and grandchildren.

Steve and his wife of 42 years, Karen, have lived in Upper St Clair since 1972. The former Karen Lamb was Steve’s high school sweetheart. The Blasses have two sons, Chris and David, and five grandchildren. Steve succinctly described his life story for me. “One wife, one home, one team. I guess I have the hat trick of life.”

It’s interesting how Steve and Karen ended up in USC. They were having dinner with the Guistis (Pirate reliever David Guisti) one night when a neighbor stopped by to tell the Guistis that he was relocating and would be selling his house. Steve and Karen, who were presently looking for a home in the South Hills, went to the house that evening, and Karen knew immediately it was

Steve, in his trophy room, with his Dapper Dan award

the house for them. They bought it and live there today. David Guisti remains in the neighborhood also.

Did you know that former Pirate pitchers Kent Tekulve and Grant Jackson are also long-time USC residents? What a staff of pitching greats we have here in USC! Steve loves USC, and one of the main reasons is the neighborhood in which he lives. He is very close to a core group of long-time neighborhood friends. Steve and Karen are godparents to several neighborhood children. The block party in July is legendary! Nicknamed the “HA party” by neighbors, it features fun, frivolity, camaraderie, and the awarding of the infamous annual HA award to the neighbor who has added the most fun to the neighborhood throughout the year.

Steve is very active in the community.

He has participated in at least ten Community Day parades, and is active in many community functions. When asked about the parade, Steve said, “It’s a really nice parade, but sort of short. I have to throw my candy really quickly to get rid of it all!”

Blass and Sanguillen Dual Bobble Head

Steve enjoys golf (he is a seven to ten handicap) and his green Mustang convertible. Steve told me that Bob Prince gave him valuable advice many years ago. “If you live in a town, be a part of that town.”

Steve has never forgotten this advice.

I talked with Lanny Frattare about Steve. Being that they’ve been partners in the broadcast booth for over 20 years, there is probably no one who knows Steve better.

“Steve is the heart and soul of the broadcast team. He not only brings knowledge of the game as a player, but more importantly he brings his sense of humor. We miss Steve when we are on the road, but we respect his desire to stay home. In fact, he’s earned it. He is truly a professional. When Steve’s career ended prematurely he handled the adversity with class and dignity. Because of Steve’s successes, both as a player and a broadcaster, Steve is arguably one of the

Lanny Frattare and Steve Blass in the announcer’s booth at PNC Park

ten most popular and famous Pirates of all time. He’s taught me a lot.”

Sports author and longtime USC resident Jim O’Brien had this to say about Steve: “Steve’s wit is quicker than his fastball. He has been successful because he chose not to brood about a great career that ended much too prematurely, but instead he moved on with his life. Bob Prince would have been extremely proud of Steve’s accomplishments.”

Steve invited me to his home to interview him for this article. After a short talk, Steve took me to his “trophy room.” It’s filled with much memorabilia including pictures, awards, autographs, and more.

The room is done in typical “Steve Blass” style—no frills, just plain and simple.

There was fan mail on his desk and a crib in the corner. “We baby-sit our grandchild now,” he said. Steve’s tone of voice told me that this crib was the most important item in the room right now.

Steve agreed to pose for a picture and chose the Dapper Dan Sportsman of the Year award he won in 1969. I asked Steve why he chose this particular award.

“It’s the most prestigious sports award in Pittsburgh, and I’m very proud of it.”

I was extremely surprised by what Steve showed me next. With all the great sports pictures, testimonials, and awards, Steve pointed out two pictures of men dressed in suits, each throwing a baseball from the mound at Three Rivers Stadium. The first man was Dr. Thomas Starzl, transplant pioneer. “Now that’s a hero,” said Steve.

“We are just athletes.”

The second photograph was of Steve’s dad. Steve had taken his dad to the park one evening before game time, and asked the grounds crew if they could move the tarp back a little so he could get a picture of his Dad throwing a ball from the mound. The grounds crew told Steve no,

they would not move it a little, but, in fact, they would move the entire tarp so the picture would be just right.

Steve, spending time with you was a thrill for me. But I must add to your statement about the three “ones” in your life.

Yes, you do have one wife, one home, and one team. But there is only one Steve Blass, and Pittsburgh and Upper St. Clair are truly happy to have you here. You are definitely our number one! 

Fall 2005

Steve Blass—Up Close and Personal Game three of the 1971 World Series, bottom of the seventh.

Pirates Bob Robertson misses a bunt sign and swings away. He hits a threerun homerun giving Steve and the Pirates a five-to-one lead. Steve yells to Pirates manager Danny Murtagh, “If there’s a fine, I’ll pay it!”

Comments from Steve about a 1972 picture of himself in a suit and tie during the May 22, 2005, broadcast: Look, look at the hair! The suit isn’t rented. And the tie… I still own it, and I think I wore it last Thursday night.

Best player Steve played with: Roberto Clemente, without a doubt.

Biggest thrill for Steve as a player: Getting the final out at the 1971 World Series.

Biggest thrill for Steve as a broadcaster: First game I did with Bob Prince.

Marc Garda, Steve’s boss at the Pirates organization: Good luck with your story; you’ll need it. Steve is a piece of work and I mean that as a compliment.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

15

Where is the Honor?

rs. I have ir resident for nearly 17 yea I have been an Upper St. Cla of the s tion ula ugh the trials and trib reared four children, going thro ugh it. thro us t ugh been faithful and bro teenage years. But, God has joined He 1.

200 in S CH ted from US My oldest son, David, gradua t boo ting ple com er Aft e. pay for colleg e the Army National Guard to lleg Co ty 2002, he went on to Communi camp as a honor graduate in of Allegheny County. up r at school, his unit was called During David’s third semeste . ory th Arm nt Hu t of the 107 FA out of David Enick and sent to Iraq. David is par an ng turi cap for one ed two medals— eiv rec vid Da ed, loy the of dep r ile ldie Wh inated “so , and one when he was nom Iraqi prisoner trying to escape week.” tched the news of this on January 29, 2005. As I wa David arrived home from Iraq s for our country, and live ir the these soldiers risked it is hy “W t, ugh tho I g, homecomin erage?” only 30 seconds of news cov some were lost, but received Upper St. Clair that have in e hav ny soldiers do we Where is the honor? How ma y during military time? our country in some other wa served in Iraq or have served to be a fine young man. ud of him. He has turned out e been all over As David’s mother, I am pro ng, the news media would hav wro ing eth som e don had You know, if he for doing what is right? the story. Where is the honor his family and God. else will honor him besides e eon som t tha y pra and e I hop Sincerely, Angie Enick

Bittersweet Move My wife and I recently decided to purchase a townhouse at Cherry Valley Lake near McDonald, Pennsylvania. It’s a lovely development on a lake with townhouses and single-family homes.

This move forces us to begin the painful process of downsizing what we’ve accumulated living in Upper St. Clair in the same house for 41 years, rearing five children, and hardly ever throwi ng anything away. We are hard at the task.

We deeply regret leaving Upper St. Clair, but this is a good first step in preparation for the down-the-road possibility of Jim Meston moving again to a health care facility, should that need arise.

This spares our children the necessity of sorting through all of our stuff they could care less about. We are getting rid of things we don’t want and letting our children take whatever they want. Moving isn’t for sissies.

I regret many things about leaving Upper St. Clair, and major among them is my retirement from contributing articles to the UPPER ST. CLAI R TODAY magazine.

It’s been an honor to have my articles published in this comm unity magazine. I’ve always tried to let the community know something more about the deserving people I’ve written about or the issues I’ve discussed. I thank you for the support you’ve given me, and I wish the TODAY staff the very best in the many future issues I know you will produce. It’s a quality publication, and it’s been an honor to be associated with it.

Best wishes in all that you do.

Sincerely, Jim Meston

To send your letter to TODAY, write to Letters to TODAY: UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Editor, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

16

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Upper St. Clair League for the Arts Joan Newman

Visual arts grant winner Shani Banerjee (right) with USCLA president Dave Criner (left) and art teacher Susan Hofrichter-Watts (center)

From a small group of art lovers

to a membership of approximately 80, the Upper St. Clair League for the Arts (USCLA) continues to grow. The purpose of the league is to promote an interest in all forms of art. This is accomplished with a variety of activities—art shows, meetings, classes, newsletters, field trips, and community outreach.

The league gives a visual arts grant to a deserving High School senior, won this year

by Shani Banerjee, and also sponsors a juried High School art show with cash prizes.

The annual Spring Art Exhibition, usually held at the Galleria, and the Sugarplum Shop, which is held at the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road each November, provide members with venues to show and sell their work.

The Township Building and the Township Library provide valuable space for art classes as well as a gallery in the Township Library for a revolving exhibition of members’ drawings, paintings, wood collages, ceramics, and crafts. The USC post office provides space for a continuing exhibit, that is updated every three months. The majority of the paintings are for sale.

At meetings, which are held three or four times a year, demonstrations, lectures, critiques, and slide shows by well-known artists motivate members. New members are always welcome. They will enjoy fellowship with other art lovers and grow

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For membership information, call Dave Criner at 412-831-6025 or Ned Garnhart at 412-835-7640. 

Annual Sugarplum Shop The Sugarplum Shop is back and opening its doors from Thursday, November 10 through Tuesday, November 15 at the Recreation Center for your pleasure. Many handcrafted items from members of the USCLA can be yours. Don’t be left behind—come visit and shop for those unique, one-of-a-kind gifts for yourself or for others.

Left to right: Devyani Kavathekar, Carol Gilfillan, Luck Groves, and Terri O’Brien at the Sugarplum Shop

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17

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at the school, located on McMillan Road, William brought home several single and double school desks. These desks would remain at the house as “play” school desks for the families that followed. In recently speaking to Orveal “Bud” May, who now lives on Fort Couch Road, Linda discovered that the May brothers all went to Conley trade school, where they became skilled in such trades as carpentry and sheet metal.

The next family to live in the house was the Rusilko family, who bought the home , ing ild bu t en tm ar use as an ap from the Mays in 1969. For a full year after Side view of the ho uction, spring 1937 pre-reconstr the purchase, the house underwent reconThe home at 211 Bridge Street ties struction. Elaine Rusilko and her husband, together generations of families that find Sonny, gutted the interior of the house down themselves continuing to reunite through to the outside walls. Six damaged fireplaces the Upper St. Clair community. Today, this were also removed. Original wood floors in house belongs to Linda Thomas Spencer and the entry hall and kitchen, as well as the front sits on three quarters of an acre, located at the porch were kept intact and remain today.

The Rusilko family officially moved into top of a private drive off Gilkeson Road.

In 1884, a survey was drafted for the the house post-reconstruction in 1970. Elaine construction of the building. Originally and Sonny’s daughters, Pam, Shelly, Amy, and owned by the Pittsburgh Coal Company, Tina, were dance students throughout the years at The Thomas Studio of Performing Matthew and Arts under owner Edith Wilkinson Linda Spencer. At were the first this time, Linda also private owners collected antiques to take over for her second busithe property. In ness, The Golden 1931, they sold Apple. As Elaine the property to was preparing to sell their daughter, her house on Bridge Dorothy, and Street, she asked her husband, Linda if she would William May, like to come look at for $1. some old fashioned At this The May home, February 1940, Harry May’s 194 desks that were in time, the 0 Ford V8 the house. After seebuilding was set up as apartments that housed multiple ing both the desks and touring the house, families employed by the coal company. Re- Linda decided to purchase the desks and cent conversations with Ruth Holtz (May) the house!

After selling the house to the Spencers and a close neighbor, Al Arbes, provided Linda with a wealth of historical informa- in 1977, Elaine and Sonny Rusilko tion about the house. Upon moving in, the moved close by to Upper Road, which May family had the building literally “cut runs perpendicular to Bridge Street. off” to make it into a single family dwelling They have since retired to their lake with a large farmhouse-style front porch. This house, but daughter, Tina, husband, design, with an addition, is how the house Mark, and their three children now live in that house on Upper Road. appears today.

As the May children, Harry, Don, Tina’s sister, Amy, along with daughHarvey, Loraine, Orveal, Bob, Ruth, and ter, Angela, also live in Upper St. Clair.

Jim, were growing up in the Bridge Street Angela graduated from USCHS in 2005 home, their father, William, worked as a and was a student at The Thomas Studio custodian at the McMillan School, now St. for eight years. It’s through connections John Capistran Church. While working like these that help the families of 211

Ruth May with he

r dog, Ragzi, winte

r 1943

Bridge Street join together and continue to maintain contact with each other.

An additional relationship that exists because of the history of the house and involved families, is that of Gary May, grandchild of Dorothy and William May. Gary May and Linda Spencer attended Bethel Park High School together. Gary is quite involved in the Bethel Park community and assists Bethel Park students with stage crew tasks. Gary and Linda’s friendship continues, and The Thomas Studio holds its annual recitals in the Bethel Park High School auditorium.

Today, Linda continues to live at the 211 Bridge Street location, after rearing her two children, Jessica and Damon. Jessica assists Linda in running The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, located at 1900 Painters Run Road, while Damon manages the family’s second business, Stayin’ Alive Dancewear, located in Great Southern Shopping Center in Bridgeville.

This historic Upper St. Clair home not only maintains architecture appearance dating back to the late 1800s, but also holds memories of families that remain in the community today, both young and old.  If you have a neighborhood story to share, please write to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Editor, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email: ldudzinski@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Fall 2005

The Spencer home, Ma

y 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Fall 2005

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Orthodontics and Your Smile Natalie Severns, D.M.D., M.D.S Crooked teeth have been a problem since

antiquity. Attempts to straighten teeth go back to at least 1000 B.C. But only in the 1800s did orthodontia become a science.

Orthodontics is also an art. The appearance of your face is greatly affected by the alignment of your teeth. If your teeth are straight, your face looks better. An orthodontist is a sculptor of the face as well as a specialist within the field of dentistry.

Besides a better appearance, straighter teeth help you to chew your food. Straighter teeth are also easier to clean, last longer, and feel better in your mouth.

Early diagnosis and orthodontia treatment is suggested. It is easier to correct a patient’s bite when the patient is young, before the bones of the face have solidified. A young patient’s mouth is more dynamic and malleable. Therefore, treatment occurs faster because the teeth can be moved more rapidly and can be guided more easily into favorable positions. Also, early treatment helps a child to grow in confidence and self-esteem.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age seven. Certain bad bites have a

skeletal component. This happens when the bones of the face are making the bite incorrect.

It’s easier for an orthodontist to finish realigning facial bones long before the patient is age 12, and in some instances before age nine.

Crossbites should also be treated early. A crossbite develops when the upper jaw is not as wide as the lower jaw. Eventually, the upper jaw fuses into one bone. If treatment is delayed, surgery, not just orthodontia, will be needed to correct the problem. The earlier treatment is started, the easier it is for the patient.

During adolescence, it is best to start treatment before the loss of the last baby tooth. But, it is never too late. Today, many adults are also wearing braces to correct their teeth. If you have healthy teeth and gums, you can straighten your smile. The development of transparent braces and Invisalign (removable transparent aligners) has made treatment an attractive option for adults. 

Severns Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontics

3155 Washington Road (Rt. 19 South, near Valley Brook Rd.)

Natalie Severns, D.M.D., M.D.S., an orthodontist, is located at 3155 Washington Road where she practices with her husband, Christopher Severns, D.M.D., a family and cosmetic dentist.

An Exquisite SMILE can be one of YOUR Greatest Assets!

Body Piercings on Rise in Teens Researchers at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh studying teen behavior are report-

ing that body piercing among adolescents is on the rise, and many teens see it as a mainstream practice without contemplating risks such as infection, bleeding, or permanent scarring.

In a study of 225 patients treated at Children’s Hospital’s Adolescent Medicine clinic, nearly half (48%) reported having a body piercing, and almost all (93%) considered body piercing to be accepted by the general public. The most common sites for body piercings were ears (74%), nose (34%), tongue (30%), navel (27%), and eyebrow (15%). Less than seven percent had pierced genitalia, lips, or nipples. Patients in the study ranged in age from 12 to 21.

“Body piercings in adolescents used to be done by kids on the fringe who wanted to stand out. But now we’re seeing this become a mainstream activity that is seen as fashionable to teens,” said Melanie A. Gold, D.O., first author of the study and an adolescent medicine specialist at Children’s. “The problem is that many teens pierce themselves or have a friend do it for them, rather than going to a professional. Often the decision is made without much thought

about health repercussions. This behavior can significantly increase the risks, which include infections, bleeding, scarring, allergic reactions, and even the potential to transmit diseases like hepatitis or HIV.” Results of the study are published in the April 2005 issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health, the official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine.

The results of the study indicate that physicians caring for adolescents and preadolescents should be aware of the increased prevalence of body piercing and associated risks, and should discuss this practice with patients and their parents at routine health visits. In addition to health risks, previous research has shown that body piercing is associated with other risk-taking behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse.

In Pennsylvania, it is illegal for children younger than 18 to have body piercings without parental consent. Dr. Gold said adolescents who do not have parental permission should be encouraged to delay getting a piercing until age 18 in order to avoid the health risks associated with having it done by someone who is not a professional. 

Family & Cosmetic Dentist Christopher Severns, D.M.D. Published Scientific Author

Orthodontist Natalie Severns, D.M.D., M.D.S.

Fall 2005

Has lectured internationally on tooth movement

724-942-8300 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Exercise—the Frequently Ignored Necessity for Good Health Jim Meston Hardly a day goes by when we don’t

read something in the paper or see a television documentary on how obesity has become a major health hazard in America.

The facts reveal that as the years go by, Americans are eating more fatty foods and exercising less. Obesity has now been flagged by the medical profession as a leading cause of diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes. The statistics also reveal that our young people are among the growing categories of overweight Americans.

Some of the most popular best selling books are books about diet. The South Beach diet has been popular for many months. The Atkins diet was widely embraced by scores of people of all ages.

Weight Watchers is a popular organization for people who prefer a support system in their quest to lose weight. Millions of people have become fanatical about cutting out carbohydrates from their diets. Advertisements for diet pills touting quick weight loss abound. There are numerous highly publicized accounts of people losing lots of weight by using the many weight loss programs available today.

Unfortunately, there are also countless incidents where people have lost much weight through fad dieting, but then go off of the diet only to gain back the weight lost, and then some. They did not commit to a life style change and, more than likely, never integrated regular exercise into their daily routine.

As a society we have become enamored with the “quick fix,” embracing the easiest way to solve our problems. The wisest among us realize there is rarely a quick fix to any problem. Losing weight in a healthy way and keeping it off is not easy. There are no quick fixes.

The successful equation for being healthy requires we eat sensibly—balanced portions of the major food groups, and cutting back on portion sizes. Integrating a regular routine of exercise in our daily lives is also required. People who have integrated some form of exercise into their daily routine have prioritized its importance.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Almost 30 years ago, Dr. William Glasser published the book Positive Addiction. Dr. Glasser found through his research that people could become addicted to exercise in a positive way, just as surely as humans become addicted to negative behavior and substances.

Regular runners have become addicted to running, for example. Right here in Upper St. Clair we have an excellent facility that offers numerous variations of activities to integrate exercise into one’s daily routine.

St. Clair Fitness and Racquet Club About four years ago Sandra (Sandy) Echement became the sole owner and manager of St. Clair Fitness and Racquet Club, a facility that had been in existence off and on since the mid 70s. It began strictly as a racquetball club and was closed completely in the mid 80s. It opened again under new management in 1996 with added exercise equipment.

Sandy, with her considerable marketing and management skills, helped improve that facility. She’s a cum laude graduate of Washington and Jefferson College and a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the International Honor Society in history. She began her career with Coins, Inc. as a sales associate, and in 12 years worked her way up to vice president of operations, with responsibilities in several states. But, she was looking for an opportunity that would allow her to further use her people skills and management and business experience.

The fitness center gave her just what she was looking for.

Sandy said that about eight years ago she wanted to improve her physical fitness.

Fall 2005

St. Clair Fitness and Racquet Club

She began working out with a personal trainer. She quickly realized the benefits from regular exercise and, in fact, became addicted to exercise. In early 2001, Sandy learned that St. Clair Racquet Club was for sale. She knew this was an opportunity for her to own a business that fit with her passion for exercise. She began advertising in high school game programs and other media and has added many young members.

She has increased the club’s membership from just under 500 when she bought the club to over 675 current members, including a mixture of men and women, young and old.

The club has been designed to provide high quality, effective, and safe exercise programs. The emphasis is on improving cardiovascular fitness and enhancing overall health and well-being through the benefits of exercise. The club offers a wide variety of exercise opportunities, including racquetball, wallyball, and handball; a weight training circuit and free weights; cardiovascular stations; a personal training program; group exercise; a nursery; and complete shower and locker facilities.

Sandy herself, through continuous education, is becoming a certified trainer and is committed to helping others realize their fitness potential. She’s a true believer that your health is your most valuable asset.

The club has been designed to help make working out enjoyable and beneficial.

She says that owning the club has been

rewarding and she’s pleased to be in a community with so many wonderful people.

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Finding the Time There’s no question that busy people have difficulty finding time for exercise in their busy schedules. A sure way to solve the problem is to exercise first thing in the morning, before the workday starts. It takes discipline to get up an hour earlier to exercise, but once a routine is established, it becomes normal.

You might even become addicted to it!

St. Clair Fitness and Racquet Club opens weekdays at 6 a.m.

If you prefer an evening workout, the club is open until 10 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, 9 p.m. on Friday, and 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Whatever your schedule, the path to a regular and successful exercise program is to identify the time of the day that is right for you; then, stick with it!

My father often said if he knew he was going to live so long he would have taken better care of himself. He lived to be 90, and really did enjoy a pretty good quality of life.

What seems irrefutable to me is the importance of eating a well-balanced diet, watching your calorie and fat intake, and not ignoring the importance of finding an enjoyable form of regular exercise.

Go out and look for someone who’s “just doing it.” You can find many of them at St. Clair Fitness and Racquet Club. If they can do it, you can do it, too! 

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David J. Stapor, M.D. Donald F. O’Malley, Jr., M.D. Edward D. Poon, M.D. Mark L. Lesh, M.D. Jeffrey M. Matheny, M.D. Certified American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

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• Sport Related Injuries • Total Joint Replacement Including Minimally Invasive Techniques • Arthroscopic Surgery • Carpal Tunnel • Rotator Cuff Repair • ACL Reconstruction • Fracture Care

1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 106 Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: (412) 854-5664

1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 240 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone: (412) 469-1660

Office Hours by Appointment Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

25

Food Safety Hotline Celebrates 20 Years Nearly two million served! But

don’t think “hamburger franchise.”

Two million is the number of callers who have been “served” food safety information by the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline since its launch in 1985. The 20-year milestone for the hotline occurred this past July.

The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline’s toll-free number is 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854). The toll-free number for the hearing impaired (TTY) is 1-800-256-7072. Consumers may speak with food safety experts (in English or Spanish) weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time, year round. An extensive menu of recorded food safety messages in English and Spanish is also available 24 hours a day.

Keep this information handy should you have a question concerning food and food safety.  26

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Increase of Inhalant Abuse Among U.S. Teens Latest government report says more than one million adolescents nationwide admitted huffing.

Inhaling toxic fumes, a practice known as huffing, is an increasingly popular form of

substance abuse among adolescents that can have severe and sometimes fatal consequences, according to experts at the Pittsburgh Poison Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Spray paint, gasoline, glue, and shoe polish are among the most commonly abused substances, said Edward P. Krenzelok, PharmD, director of the Pittsburgh Poison Center (PPC) at Children’s. Adolescents who abuse inhalants are more likely to be male and live in rural areas, according to research conducted by the PPC. Nearly nine percent of 12- and 13-year-olds surveyed in 2002 and 2003 had used inhalants in their lifetime, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health released this month.

The survey showed that more youths ages 12 and 13 had used inhalants than marijuana.

“While our research shows that the incidence of huffing typically peaks between the ages of 12 and 17, there is evidence that even preschoolers have engaged in huffing, most likely because they were imitating an older sibling or neighbor,” Dr. Krenzelok said. “Parents should be aware that this problem exists and be cognizant of the warning signs.”

The health effects of huffing inhalants can include neurological damage, seizures, nausea and vomiting, behavioral problems, chemical burns, liver and kidney damage, and death.

Physical signs of huffing include: • Loss of appetite • Muscle or joint pain • Drunk or dizzy appearance • Anxiety and/or irritability • Red or runny eyes or nose • Drowsiness or fatigue For a downloadable brochure on inhalant abuse, visit the Children’s website at www.chp.edu/chpstore/poisonprev.php and scroll down to the brochure titled Inhalants: Not a Fad—a Deadly Fact. 

Fall 2005

Plastic Surgical Associates Robert W. Bragdon, M.D., F.A.C.S. E. Douglas Newton, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Complete plastic surgical services including cosmetic (breast augmentation, facelifts, liposuction, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty), reconstructive (restores form or function), hand surgery, management of skin cancer and skin care products.

West Penn Hospital 4815 Liberty Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15224 (412) 681-5995

St. Clair Hospital 1050 Bower Hill Road Pittsburgh, PA 15243 (412) 572-6164

Certified in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Awareness—Reawakening Your Intuition Through Dreams Marjorie Whyel, Licensed Professional Counselor, New Perspectives Counseling Center Spanning diverse cultures and

through time, dreams were believed to be sacred revealers of information and truth. This may be why we have the expression, “sleep on it,” when we need to work through a difficult problem. It has been said that praying is talking to God, and meditation is God talking to us. To take this one step further, dreams may represent the divine power within us. Perhaps ultimate healing, whether physical or spiritual, comes when you are able to tap into that divine spirit within you. Through the ages, dreams have been used to heal the body. In addition to being a bridge between the unconscious and the conscious, dreams provide a bridge between the mind and the body.

The well-known cancer specialist Bernie Siegel has an interesting rule when treating a cancer patient. He won’t operate on one of his patients unless they first relay

a meaningful dream to him. In his books, he describes patients who have had dreams about the internal workings of their bodies showing a blockage somewhere, and upon medical examination turned out to be a site of cancer in their bodies. These are literal dreams that speak to us about what we may need to do to heal ourselves.

Many Nobel Prize winners have had dreams that helped them with the project that led them to their prize. Dreams have been credited with the creation of many inventions, fixing Jack Nicklas’ golf swing, setting up routes for the Underground Railroad, and numerous novels, paintings, and poems.

Research has shown that humans only use ten percent of their brain’s potential.

Notable psychiatrist Carl Jung believed in the vastness of our collective, shared unconscious. He saw dreams as just one

way to access truths held within. He believed that in addition to dreams being the doorway to our souls, dreams could also allow our unconscious thoughts to become conscious. We can train our minds to learn from these unconscious archives and improve our daily lives.

One way to begin this journey is to keep a journal next to your bed and write your dreams down immediately upon waking.

This will improve your ability to remember your dreams, and, with time, you will begin to uncover a wealth of information held in metaphors and symbols that are uniquely yours. With continued work, it’s possible to train yourself to do important work in your lucid dreaming state. Your dreams speak to you through your intuitive, unconscious voice. If you listen, you will find much wisdom. 

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Jennifer Glassbrenner, PhD, NCP Marjorie Whyel, MA, NCP Licensed Professional Counselors Practical Life Counseling for Individuals, Groups and Couples Workshops Focused on Easing Life Transitions Visit our website at www.newperspectivescc.com for upcoming Dream Workshops.

See our Dream article on this page.

2550 Boyce Plaza Road, Suite 130 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 P 412-257-0677 • F 412-257-0627 www.newperspectivescc.com 28

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

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Internal Medicine

SOUTH HILLS ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES, P.C.

Stephanie Colodny, M.D. Ashith Mally, M.D. James Moreci, M.D. Walter Robison, M.D. Michael Carpathios, M.D. Harumi Burns, M.D. 5000 Waterdam Plaza Drive Suite 120 McMurray, PA 15317 (724) 941-8877

Certified American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Office Hours by Appointment • Evening Hours Available

John S. Beachler, M.D. Robert J. Donofrio, M.D. Ph.D. Eric D. Nabors, M.D. Derrick J. Fluhme, M.D. Christopher M. Manning, M.D.

Barry Austin, D.O. Donald Kushner, M.D. Raman Purighalla, M.D. Uma Purighalla, M.D. 1050 Bower Hill Road Suite 202 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 (412) 572-6122

533 Washington Avenue Suite 205 Bridgeville, PA 15017 (412) 257-4484

3400 South Park Road Bethel Park, PA 15102 (412) 835-6653

Adult & Pediatric Orthopaedics • Arthroscopic Surgery Total Joint Replacement • Adult Reconstructive Surgery Scoliosis • Kyphoplasty Micro Disc Surgery, Cervical & Lumber Spine Surgery of the Hand, Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine

412-429-0880

Find out why we’re ‘Preferred’!

Visit our informational website at: www.ppcp.org

363 Vanadium Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15243 www.southhillsortho.com

Community Day 2005 Race Results— Most Participants Ever!

Over 200 people participated in this year’s 5K Community Day Run for Fun. With blue skies and a crisp 59 degrees at the start

of the 9 a.m. race, this year’s event welcomed the most participants in its history. There were students from all grade levels, and moms and dads who entered the race and walked, ran, and even pushed strollers beginning and ending at Panther Stadium.

Overall race winners were Tim Wu in the men’s division with an 18.15-minute race and Tina Seech in the women’s division with a 22.15. Congratulations to all the Community Day runners and walkers! We look forward to another participation record-breaker in 2006.

Male Age Categories

Male Age Categories

Female Age Categories

Female Age Categories

8 and under Carson Kerr ............... 26.48 Ken Rapko ................ 29.02 Colin Kerr.................. 30.44

20-29 Tim Wu..................... 18.15

8 and under Elaina Walnoha ......... 31.16 Lauren Schoeppner .... 34.50 Kathie Allen ............... 36.56

30-39 Laura Johnsen........... 26.44 Cheryl Gibson............ 32.25 Deborah White........... 33.00 Lora Rutkowski .......... 33.00

9-11 Mack McGuire ........... 23.47 Tommy O’Connor ....... 23.49 Carleton Gibson ......... 23.50 12-14 Phil Yeung ................ 20.44 Paul Griffith ............... 20.53 John Subosits............ 21.12 15-19 Chris Horoszko .......... 19.48 Jim McCurrie ............. 21.48 Brian Cartier .............. 21.48

30-39 Bill Lang ................... 19.24 Sandeep Ekbote ......... 20.13 Greg Christiansen....... 20.51 40-49 Rick Sandala ............. 19.34 David Hartman .......... 20.33 Mike Vighetti.............. 21.39 50+ Steve Handy .............. 23.42 George Bezek ............ 26.30 William Dawson ........ 27.39

9-11 Kay Subosits ............. 25.13 Katie Seech ............... 26.53 Mary Grace Franusich ...27.13 Emily Schmitt ............ 27.13

40+ Tina Seech ................ 22.15 Janine Milinski Gross....23.10 Jane Frost ................. 24.59

12-14 Taylor Chakurda......... 23.05 Chrissy Sandman....... 28.00 Nicole Kish................ 30.19 15-19 Laura Kearns............. 26.44 Kira Brown ................ 28.25 Lisa Ripper................ 34.46

Fall 2005

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Kids and Stress— What We Can do to Help Natasha Ice, MSW, Community Resource Specialist Most of us as adults are acutely aware of what

causes us stress. For many, common stressors include balancing work and family, home, finances, the needs of our extended family members, as well as the stressors created by our larger community. We rarely find sufficient time to meet all demands, both external and self-imposed. Although a great deal of attention is afforded for the topic of stress management for us, often the stress our children are facing falls victim to inattention.

A recent survey of one local high school student body asked students to identify and rate their stress “triggers.” Not surprisingly, these youth responded that self-expectation to succeed academically, in athletics, as well as in their extra-curricular activities, are all considerable sources of stress for them. The group further identified parental expectations as a significant concern for them, with particular emphasis on grade expectations and the push to excel athletically. These same students also named impending college and career choices, as well as peer competition, as sources of pressure for them. These issues, in combination with the

Local Stress Management Resources (Provided by USCHS Counseling Department) Carmen Accetta 412-531-6864 Bari Benjamin, LSW & Elena Runco, LSW 412-243-5660 Crossroads Counseling and Consulting Associates 724-942-3996 Denis Darsie 412-371-8687 Stewart Johnson and Associates 724-941-1120 Dr. Hilda Schorr-Ribera 412-421-2205 Dr. Robert Sherry 412-344-0222 South Hills Health Systems Counseling Center 412-469-5240 Beverly Steinfeld, PhD 412-421-8307 Dr. Spina Horacio 412-854-9120 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

reality of bullying, the relatively new problem of “cyber bullying,” standardized exams, family dysfunction, and images fed to them by the media about attractiveness and “success” are often more than they can handle on their own.

As their adult models—their helpers—we need to be able to recognize when stress has become unmanageable for them.

It can be a fine line distinguishing between dangerous and healthy levels of stress. Yes, stress can be a positive force in our lives, as it motivates us and can lead to creativity and structure. It is our job to assist our children in learning healthy responses to life’s many demands. How do we do it?

Parents need to be knowledgeable of the signs that stress may be reaching dangerous levels for their children, as it can lead to depression and anxiety, as well as other negative

Many parents have asked me what to do if their child won’t talk to them.

My response is always the same: just because they won’t talk doesn’t mean that you can’t! outcomes. Physical indicators of stress include (but are not limited to) headaches, stomach aches, infections and colds, sleeping too much or not sleeping enough, as well as doing any one activity excessively (i.e. watching TV, video games, music). Emotional signs can include crying without provocation, irritability, procrastination, worrying a lot, and trouble with peers and family.

It is also essential that the stress our kids are experiencing is never minimized. There are great differences between the stresses we take seriously and those that take precedence in a child’s life. When an individual has never had to worry about making a mortgage payment, juggling a career and several children, or trouble with a boss, not being selected for National Honor Society can be enormous.

Try to reframe their stressors as one of your own. Your daughter not being selected to prom court can be compared to you not receiving a promotion in your company. It can also have a similar effect: feelings of sadness, anger, and rejection. That’s why it’s essential for us to keep our own emotions in check when attempting to help our children resolve a stressful issue. You, too, might be angry or disappointed that your son didn’t make the varsity sports team or get that scholarship, but it’s your job, as the adult

Fall 2005

Natasha Ice and last year’s PTA Council TIP coordinator Lynn Zacur after a TIP presentation on kids and stress

with years of life experience and wisdom, to set a positive example and help reframe what they feel is a rejection as an exception. When something goes wrong, remind them of all the things that are going right. It’s a very useful tool.

Most importantly, be present for them and patient with them. Not all adolescents have gained the skills to appropriately identify their emotions yet—they feel sad so they get angry, they feel angry and respond with sadness. Perhaps they have no clue what they are feeling, so they lash-out at siblings and parents. This can lead to miscommunication and confusion for even the most seasoned of helpers.

Many parents have asked me what to do if their child won’t talk to them. My response is always the same: just because they won’t talk doesn’t mean that you can’t! In fact, it is essential that you do. Remember to always be as positive and encouraging as you can.

Ultimately, we are the best tool for helping our kids manage their disappointments and demands. We have to be aware of danger signs that stress is reaching an unsafe level, and assist them in gaining skills to respond in a healthy way to stress. The most effective means of accomplishing this is by modeling healthy responses ourselves and remaining patient with them as they learn new tools for life.  Natasha Ice, a native West Virginian, attended West Virginia University and earned her undergraduate degree in English and women’s studies. In 2001 she completed the master of social work program at WVU. She has worked extensively with children and adolescents for the past ten years, beginning at a battered women’s shelter in 1995. She worked for the state of West Virginia with abused and neglected children as a permanency planner and adoption specialist for three years. Her clinical experience includes working as an in-home therapist with boys and girls ages four to 17 and their families, community crisis team, as well as clinical care coordinator for Southwood Hospital. She joined the Bradley staff in May 2004 as a community resource specialist and serves as a liaison between the facility and the state of West Virginia. Natasha is a member of various children’s collaboratives in West Virginia and is also an adjunct women’s studies instructor for Fairmont State College in her home state.

Do Your Part Upper St. Clair Cardboard and Paper Recycling Program A volunteer group of USC residents has come together to organize a Townshipwide cardboard and paper recycling program. Donations are welcome. A donation jar will be available on site.

When: Saturday, October 1 and Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m.-noon.

Where: USC Public Works Parking Lot (corner of Truxton Road and McLaughlin Run Road).

Items to be Collected: Corrugated cardboard, paper (not newsprint), magazines, catalogues, phone books, junk mail, and shredded paper. Please do not drop off newsprint. Continue to recycle newsprint at your curbside.

New! Cereal boxes and tissue boxes (sort with mixed paper).

Household batteries (9v, AA, AAA, C, D).

Questions: Call 412-831-9000.

2005 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Labor Day................... Friday, September 9 (Delayed one day) Week of Thanksgiving Day ...... Friday, November 25 (Delayed one day) Week of Christmas................... Thursday, December 22 (No change) Fall Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays Collections will take place the following Saturdays. Please place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags and place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up.

October 22 October 29 November 5 November 12 November 19 December 3

General Election—Tuesday, November 8, 2005 Polls Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

������������

Tuesday, October 11, 2005, is Voter Registration Deadline Date.

(Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)

If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, please call the Allegheny County Elections Department at 412-350-4500 or visit www.twpusc.org. The Township Library and the post office have voter registration forms.

Please exercise your right to vote!

Ward District Polling Place 1

1

Township Building, Library Multi-purpose Room, Ground Floor - McLaughlin Run Road

1

2

Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium Morton Road

1

3

Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

1

4

2

1

Ward District Polling Place 3 1 Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road 3

2

St. Louise de Marillac School - McMurray Road

3

3

Recreation Center - McLaughlin Run Road

4

1

Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

Baker Elementary School, Gymnasium Morton Road

4

2

Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road

Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

4

3

Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road

4

Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road

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2

2

Westminster Presbyterian Church - Washington Road

4

2

3

Fort Couch Middle School, Multi-purpose Room (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

5

1

Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road

2

4

Fort Couch Middle School, Gymnasium (Miranda Drive Entrance) - Fort Couch Road

5

2

Wesley Institute, Gymnasium - Johnston Road

5

3

Boyce Middle School, Gymnasium - Boyce Road Fall 2005

������������ ���� � ������������

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

31

Township of Upper St. Clair Frank E. Marsh President, Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-6244 2007*

Honor Bestowed on Douglas A. Watkins, Township Manager The University of Pittsburgh

Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) held a celebration on April 30, 2005, that included honoring Douglas A. Watkins as a distinguished alumnus. Mr. Watkins, Upper St. Clair Township Manager since 1982, earned his master’s degree in public administration from GSPIA in 1976.

Congratulations Mr. Watkins! 

Robert W. Orchowski

Vice President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2007*

Preston W. Shimer Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-221-1736 2007*

Gloria Smith Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-1284 2005*

Ched Mertz Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3631 2005*

Bill Bates At Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-257-8115 2007*

Township Receives Grants The Township of Upper St. Clair re-

ceived two Environmental Challenge Fund grants from Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, a NiSource Company. From over 60 applicants, 14 projects were funded. Checks were presented to successful recipients by Mr. Terrance J. Murphy, president of Columbia Gas, at a reception at the Heinz History and Sports Museum in Pittsburgh.

The first grant received by Upper St. Clair was $1000 for additional McLaughlin Run Stream bank planting. Many of the plants installed during the phase III construction project sustained damage last September from the abrasive floodwaters from the storm associated with Hurricane Ivan. Walter Jarosh organized a group of community and CLS volunteers on April 24, 2005, to replant the area with rooted cuttings and live stakes. More planting is scheduled. The grant is for a three-year period.

The second grant in the amount of $500 is for sustaining the Township-wide bluebird project set up by Mr. Dell Lesnett. Scattered throughout Township and state lands (the edge of Mayview Hospital and the wetlands) are approximately 70 bluebird houses that Dell constructed and maintained for the last ten years. His success produces over 100 bluebirds, numerous tree swallows, and chickadees

Nancy Page, Township Forester Walter Jarosh, and Tom Page

Mike Bulenthal

annually. His ten years of handwritten records amass a valuable history of the results of this project. Due to failing health, he is unable to continue the project and requests help.

The grant money will be used to sustain the record keeping, cleaning, care, and maintenance of the birdhouses with volunteers under the direction of the Township Forester. There is a three-year completion time on this project. 

Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates Ernest T. Harris At Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1119 2005*

• 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.

• Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m., no meeting in December.

• Zoning Hearing Board meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m.

• Civil Hearing Board meets as needed.

• Building/Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board meets as needed.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

3232 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2005 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall Fall 2005

Visit our website - www.twpusc.org

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Meetings All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter. Complete Board minutes can be found at the Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.

March 7, 2005

April 4, 2005

April 5, 2005

Approximately 22 people attended.

Approximately 23 people attended.

Special Meeting Approximately 13 people attended.

Allegheny County Councilman Vince Gastgeb provided a presentation regarding several items of interest, including County assessments, the leash-free South Park dog park, Boyce Mayview Park, and the Painters Run Road project.

• Library funding issues were discussed and will be continued at the April 25, 2005, Informational and General Affairs meeting of the Board of Commissioners.

May 2, 2005

Recognitions: • Ms. Nora Helfrich, Director of Tri-Community South EMS, presented a plaque to Township Manager Douglas Watkins in recognition of his hard work and dedication on behalf of TCS. The Board: • Tabled PLC04-0008, Beatty subdivision preliminary and final subdivision approval, until April 4, 2005.

• Continued the public hearing for PLC04-0007, Fox Chase Phase 4 PRD rezoning, until April 4, 2005.

• Adopted Bill No. 9-05 amending the Township Code, Chapter 130, “Zoning” to revise the storage structure requirements within the Special Business District (SB); to revise the Restricted Light Industrial District (RM); to allow for storage structures in front of the principal structure under certain circumstances; and to provide for amendments as prescribed by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.

• Adopted Bill No. 4-05 granting preliminary and final subdivision approval to Forestbrook Estates plan of lots, subject to certain conditions.

• Tabled PLC05-0002, Oakbrooke Estates Plan No. 1, preliminary subdivision approval.

• Authorized the cooperative understanding between the Township and the Boyce Road Gardeners.

• Adopted Bill No. 8-05 amending the Tri-Community South EMS Administrative Compact.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1448 authorizing the appropriate officials of the Township to authorize the disposal of Township records.

Board Approval of Contracts: • Concrete Coring—Herman, PA 2005 Street Crack Sealing .................................$ 48,000 • State Pipe Services, Inc.—Cranberry Township Sanitary Sewer Dye Testing Base year ’05 ......................................................$ 55,000 Option year ’06.................................................$213,660 Option year ’07.................................................$195,000 • Kenny Ross Chevrolet—North Huntington 2005 Chevrolet 2500 HD Extended Cab Work Truck............................$22,386.23 • Day Fleet Sales—Monroeville 2005 F-450 Cab and Chassis..............................$24,895 2005 Ford Econoline 350 Van............................$17,405 • Sabre Equipment, Inc.—Coraopolis Service Body for 2005 F-450 .............................$12, 299 Electrical Contractor Equipment Package for 2005 Ford Econoline 350 Van.........................$5,178.50 • Caterpillar—Neville Island Caterpillar 257B MA8 Skid Loader ...............$24,529.90

March 16, 2005 Special Meeting Approximately 5 people attended.

• Library funding issues were discussed.

• Planning process for the recreation/community center in Boyce Mayview Park was discussed.

Approximately 23 people attended.

Debra Conn receives a proclamation from Commissioner Gloria Smith for National Library Week.

Proclamations: • Commissioner Smith presented a Proclamation proclaiming April 10-16, 2005, as National Library Week in Upper St. Clair. Lois Hoop, Director of the Library, and Debra Conn, Children’s Librarian, were present to receive the Proclamation.

• Commissioner Shimer presented Proclamations to David A. Rosner and to the parents of Kevin R. Hoch, recognizing their attainment of Eagle Scout rank.

The Board: • Adopted Bill No. 1-05 granting preliminary and final subdivision approval to the Beatty subdivision, subject to certain conditions.

• Adopted Bill No. 3-05 amending Chapter 130 of the Code of the Township entitled “Zoning” to rezone property owned by Williamson and Jefferson, Inc., located along Painters Run Road, L/B 253-E-110, from R-LI, low intensity residential district, to R1, single family residential district.

• Tabled PLC05-0002, Oakbrooke Estates Plan No. 1, preliminary subdivision approval until May 2, 2005.

• Continued public hearing re. PLC05-0006, Upper St. Clair High School Stadium Nextel Communications collocation of antennae—nonresidential conditional use approval, to May 2, 2005.

• Continued public hearing re. PLC05-0007, Summerfield Village office and maintenance building additions, amended tentative approval nonresidential planned development, to May 2, 2005.

• Adopted Bill No. 10-05 authorizing the acquisition of a public right-of-way and temporary construction easement on the property of Woodland Grove Development Company, L/B 252-N-29, 1731 Quigg Drive, and a portion of the adjacent 15-foot pedestrian way along Quigg Drive.

• Adopted Bill No. 11-05 amending Chapter 125 of the Code of the Township entitled “Vehicles and Traffic” to update Schedule VII regarding the posting of stop signs throughout the Township.

• Voted to direct Township staff to prepare ordinance to change from a quarterly sewer billing system to a monthly billing system. (See article on page 35.)

• Adopted Resolution 1449 authorizing the Township to enter into an agreement with PennDOT for comprehensive maintenance on Commonwealth roads within the Township.

• Appointed the following Board members: Charles A. MacIvor, Library Board, three-year term, expires 12-31-06.

Robert G. Ontolchik, Library Board, three-year term, expires 12-31-07.

Kelly B. Bakayza, Parks & Recreation Board, three-year term, expires 12-31-07.

Board Approval of Contracts: • Pompei & Sons, Inc.—Bentleyville 2005 Street Resurfacing...........................$ 1,007,254.94

May 2, 2005, Eagle Scout recognition Proclamations: • Commissioner Bates presented a Proclamation recognizing May 15-21, 2005, as EMS Week in Upper St. Clair. Several Tri-Community South EMS members were present.

• Commissioner Mertz presented Proclamations to Patrick D. Foley, Matthew D. Petersen, Robert J. Petersen, and Sean R. Stockton, recognizing their attainment of Eagle Scout rank.

The Board: • Tabled PLC05-0002, Oakbrooke Estates Plan No. 1, preliminary subdivision approval, until June 6, 2005.

• Approved Bill No. 12-05, granting conditional use approval to Nextel Communications collocation of antennae at Upper St. Clair High School.

• Adopted Decision USC-POC 1-05, granting amended tentative approval to the Summerfield Village office and maintenance building additions.

• Continued the public hearing re. PLC05-0005, WIN, Upper St. Clair, L .P., 1598 Washington Road, unified conditional use/preliminary land development approval, to June 6, 2005.

• Voted to establish the Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center ad hoc advisory group. Voted to add language that reasonable efforts will be taken to schedule meetings to make them conveniently accessible to the public.

• Denied the hiring of two Police Officers for the purpose of traffic control.

• Directed the Township Manager to explore, with the Chief of Police, ways to use existing Police staff to address speeding and traffic problems.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1450 to direct the Township Manager to integrate the Upper St. Clair Township Library data from the Dynix platform into the eiNetwork III system.

• Appointed Robert Ontolchik as a library trustee for the Pittsburgh District Advisory Council.

• Revoked the contract with Pompei & Sons, Inc. for 2005 street resurfacing.

Board Approval of Contracts: • E.H. Griffith Co.—Pittsburgh Toro Reelmaster 3100-D Triplex Mower .......$20,861.25 • Murphy Family Equipment—Washington Kubota L5030 HST Tractor ................................$23,118 • Contractor’s Connection—Canonsburg TL-130R Takeuchi Rubber Track Loader ...........$24,500 • A. Folino Construction, Inc.—Oakmont 2005 Street Resurfacing Contract.............$1,024,670.25 • Medronic Emergency Response Systems— Redmond, WA Seven Life Pak 12 Automatic External Defibrillators units for Tri-Community South EMS ..........$118,904.38

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

33

2005 Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy A Special Opportunity for People who Live or Work in Upper St. Clair The Upper St Clair Police Department is hosting a

2004 Graduating Class

Citizens’ Police Academy. Classes will begin on October 12 and end November 16, 2005. The Academy classes are conducted at the Police Department on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:30 p.m. for six weeks. The course syllabus includes instruction and scenario-based training on various aspects of law enforcement and public safety. It is open to adults of all ages. There is no charge for the Academy.

Objectives include: • An overview of the criminal justice system.

• Local ordinances, crimes, and vehicle code issues.

• The United States Constitution and citizens’ rights.

• Firearms safety, use of force, and defensive tactics.

• Patrol procedures, traffic stops, speed enforcement, and officer safety.

• Criminal, drug, and gang investigations.

• Domestic crimes, custody disputes, and missing children.

• The role of the District Attorney and the District Court.

• Local crimes, current investigations, programs, and public issues.

If you are interested in this free program available to all adult Upper St. Clair residents, please complete and mail or deliver the application below to the Upper St. Clair Police Department, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. If you have questions or need further information, contact the Police Administration office, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m. at 412-833-1113.

Sign up now for the Citizens’ Police Academy beginning October 2005.

Upper St. Clair Police Department 2005 Citizens’ Police Academy Application Name: (last, first, middle) ________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________

2004 Upper St. Clair Citizens’ Police Academy graduates seated, left to right: Lucia Kuma, Mary Ann Sakoian, Barbara Tate, Lynn Brown, Mary Repischak, Barbara Wharton, Deborah Hughes; standing: Patrick Walsh, Linda Barkas, Jeffrey Barbarita, Richard Barbarita, Alexandra Rudnitskas, Bonnie Baxter, James Dayton, Mary Hutchins, Sally Sherfinski, Jay Catalucci, Linda Dudzinski, John Jacoby, George Pitcairn, Susan Schneid, Lieutenant John Sakoian (instructor), Richard Wharton

D.A.R.E. Michael Torkos,

a kindergartner from Streams School, was the winner of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) bicycle raffle held at the Recreation Center on Community Day 2005.

Michael and D

.A.R.E. Officer

2005 Bicycle Registration and Safety Program

_________________________________________________________________

The Upper St. Clair Police Depar tment

Home Phone: ______________________ Cell Phone #: ___________________ Employer and Phone Number: ________________________________________ Social Security Number: _____________________________________________ Date of Birth: _____________________________________________________ E-Mail Address:____________________________________________________ Have you ever been arrested? ________________________________________ If yes, please explain: _______________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________________________ The final decision on class participants is up to the sole discretion of the Upper St. Clair Police Department.

Please mail or deliver to: Upper St. Clair Police Department 1820 McLaughlin Run Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Emergency 412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500 • Administration 412-833-1113

34

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

T.J. Fahey

Davidson with Bike winner Thomas rphy Mu es Jam Officer

sponsored a bicycle registration and safety program for Upper St. Clair residents this past May. In addition to performing bike safety inspections, an obstacle skills course, a safety video, and traffic safety instruction were part of the day’s events.

Participants entered the chance to win various giveaway prizes during the day.

F a l l

CHOOSE

JUICY

2 0 0 5

Finance Upper St. Clair Township Changes Sewer Collection Method In July 2005 the Township of Upper St. Clair changed its cycle of collecting sanitary sewer user fees from a quarterly billing period to a monthly billing period. The Township has contracted with the Pennsylvania American Water Company to provide the billing and collection of its monthly sewer user fees, which are now included with a resident’s water bill. The benefit of billing in this manner is to allow the customer to see their exact water usage and the corresponding wastewater charges. The Township billings previously ran a quarter behind the water billings due to a delay in receiving the necessary electronic information.

Transitioning to the new monthly collections also necessitated a one time “catch up,” where a quarterly billing and monthly billing are due in the same cycle.

All current payments for Township sanitary sewer user fees should be made in the manner prescribed by the Pennsylvania American Water Company on its billing form.

Community Development Comprehensive Plan The Community Development Department is well underway in preparing the 2005 Comprehensive Plan with the help of Environmental Planning and Design (EPD). There have been several public listening sessions held over the past few months to obtain important feedback from residents. It’s never too late to get involved! Please keep an eye out for the next pubic meeting. We appreciate your participation and ideas.

If you have questions, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at 412-831-9000, extension 501.

Recreation and Leisure Services Baker Park Renovations Did you know that Baker Park is undergoing renovations? A new sand volleyball area, two bocce ball courts, swings, and a preschool-aged playground equipment area are all on the agenda.

When you need a break from the action at the park, a new water fountain and benches will be waiting. Renovations are expected to be completed by spring 2006.

Boyce Mayview picnic pavilion

Boyce Mayview Park Update Boyce Mayview Park plans are moving along. The Board of Commissioners has created a Boyce Mayview Community Recreation Center ad hoc advisory group. The Parks and Recreation Board is developing a Boyce Mayview Park Land Management focus group to help develop a land management plan. Plus, look for the new picnic pavilion, built on the site of the old field kitchen, that opened this summer.

Fall/Winter Recreation Program Brochure Look for the 2005 Fall/Winter Recreation program brochure that will be arriving in your mailbox this September. The Department of Recreation and Leisure Services invites you to review the brochure and sign up for the many interesting and fun activities sure to please!

Public Works New Bridge Installed The new bridge on USC’s threehole golf course has been completed.

B r i d g e replacement took place after the previous bridge was destroyed during Hurricane Ivan last September.

The new wooden bridge will allow for better access over McLaughlin Run Road Creek. It is designed for pedestrian traffic as well as golf course maintenance equipment. The bridge’s wood design works well with past renovations in this same area of the creek.

USC’s Public Works Department performed the construction. 

CHOOSE Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, and Accessories The Galleria Mt. Lebanon 412-531-9663

Our new bridge!

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

35

Library

Spotlight On Early Literacy A place to shine!

ster Upper St. Clair Police Officer Rob McMa made a special appearance at our evening storytime on May 4. He read the wonderful Officer Buckle and Gloria to the group.

After storytime, the kids had a great time expl

oring a real police car.

Early Literacy Workshops for Parents, Caregivers, and Educators

Celebrating our 25th year

Thanks to financial support from the Friends of the Library, Debra Conn, head of youth

Increase skill � Develop Talent � Nurture Creativity � For students of all levels 4 to 18 years old

�Jazz ��Ballet ��Tap� �Hip Hop ��Musical Theater

services, presented three early literacy workshops in February and March. Early literacy is everything a child knows about reading and writing before they can actually read and write. Research shows that children get ready to read years before they start school. The workshop covered simple ways parents, caregivers, and educators can help children learn important pre-reading skills. These skills will make it easier for a child to learn to read and become a good reader.

Each workshop was devoted to a specific age group (birth to two years of age, two- and threeyear-olds, and four- and five-year-olds) and covered pre-reading skills that children begin learning at birth: print awareness and motivation, vocabulary development, phonemic awareness, letter knowledge, and narrative skills. The workshops were designed based on materials and research developed by the Public Library Association.

The Children’s Library will repeat the series this fall. Call the Library at 412-835-5540 for workshop information. 

Concepts Corner

Preschoolers and their parents have fun playing and learning in Concepts Corner.

Join us for free mini-classes at

Open House Thursday, August 18th 4 8 PM

Fall Classes start September 7th

Library Hours

For more information

(412) 563-5080

Monday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m.

Friday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday 1–5 p.m.

www.Centerfortheaterarts.org

Closed Monday, September 5

250 Mt. Lebanon Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15234

Outside book and video return available 24 hours a day, collected daily at 9 a.m.

36

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

There’s something new at the Library for preschoolers and their parents. It’s Concepts Corner, and it features educational toys and games that enhance preschool learning. Currently, the following toys and games are available: Alphabet Foam alphabet floor puzzle, soft and safe alphabet blocks, I Know My Letters alphabet puzzles, My ABC 24 mini blocks, alphabet house.

Shapes Circle puzzle, shape puzzle, shapes sorter, shape discovery box.

Community Helpers What Do You Want to Be? (Book and community helper characters.)

Colors Color puzzles, color discovery boxes.

Phonetics Spin-a-sound games, find the letters phonics boxes.

Words Lauri word play and word starters, rhyming word puzzles.

Preschoolers, and their parents and caregivers, can have fun as they explore shapes, the alphabet, colors, community helpers, and more. An adult guiding the play and exploration is recommended. These items are available for use in the Library. 

Library Enhancements Funded by Friends of the Library

The annual used book sale, the largest fund-raising effort made by the Friends, is held during six days in May each year. A wide array of books is offered in the community multipurpose room beside the Library entrance.

The Friends of the Library of Upper St.

Clair raise funds to supplement the Library’s budget. Donations by the Friends since 1980 total more than $220,000, adding programs and resources that the Library would not otherwise enjoy.

The Friends’ contributions support and enrich reading programs that teach children to love books, and parents to serve as role models.

In 2004, the summer reading program enrolled 1139 kids who read 26,031 books. Over 3500 people attended the programs that included Art in the Park, puppet shows, and Picasso’s Corner art discoveries. Expansion of the Concepts Corner is a priority for this year.

On the adult floor, artwork and furniture funded by Friends build an ambience of reading for pleasure or escape, as well as for serious study and research. Books, tapes, CDs, and DVDs donated beyond budget have ranged from popular fiction to general reference works.

Computers, software, and public workstations enable public access to the Internet.

Horizon Enriched Content enables the online catalog browser to view book jackets, tables of contents, and excerpts from much of the Library’s collection—a service unavailable in any other public library in Allegheny County.

SM

Library help expand Funds from the Friends of the ways, ranging from y children’s programming in man iding educational underwriting activities to prov model. materials, like this solar-system

Friends raise money from book and audiovisual sales, memberships, and contributions.

On the first Saturday of every month except May, Friends collect, sort, and store books that have been donated at the multipurpose room to the left of the Library’s main entrance.

During six days in May, untold hours of volunteers’ preparation culminate in the annual used book sale. Throughout the year, other selected books are available for purchase from cases and rounders on the adult and children’s floors.

Membership in Friends is open to all who contribute $2 per individual or $4 per family.

Donations above this amount, like all gains from book sales, are devoted exclusively to Library projects and are fully tax deductible.

Advantages of membership include free admission to preview night at the book sale and subscription to the newsletter. There are also intangible benefits: volunteer opportunities, camaraderie with others who know and appreciate books, civic pride in promoting a community asset, and a forum to address Library needs.

As Andrew Carnegie said, “A library outranks any one thing a community can do to benefit its people.” Participate in this endeavor; join Friends today. Membership forms are available at the Library’s circulation desk. 

Group Benefits Commercial Insurance Individual Financial Planning Professional Liability Coverage Life-Disability-Automobile-Homeowners

Protecting Today.

Securing Tomorrow .

SM

Henderson Brothers, Inc. 920 Fort Duquesne Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15222 T • 412 261 1842 F • 412 261 4149 E • info@hendersonbrothers.com

on the first Friends’ volunteers collect used books sorts through a er Farm Lee h. mont each of day Satur mountain of donated volumes.

Adult activities at the Library benefit from Friend s’ funding, too. Beyond budget donations have provid ed facilities ranging from this Cozy Corner quiet reading space to public computer workstations.

Fall 2005

www.hendersonbrothers.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

37

October is Fire Safety Month Residents Should Test Household Smoke Alarms and Plan Fire Drills

During Fire Safety Month in October, fire departments across America

will be joining with the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department in teaching fire prevention and fire safety to citizens of all ages.

Home fire safety education is especially important because, according to the nonprofit Home Safety Council, fire is the third leading cause of injury-related deaths in the home. The Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in America™ report found, that on average, unintentional fires and burns in the home cause more than 3400 deaths each year.

38

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department urges its residents to take the simple steps needed to protect themselves in case fire strikes. With just a small investment of time, families can greatly improve their chances of surviving a home fire.

These steps include installing working smoke alarms, testing them often, and planning and rehearsing home fire drills.

Research shows that nationally, only 20% of households regularly test their smoke alarms. Frequent testing is essential because no home is safe without working smoke alarms.

During Fire Safety Month and all year long, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department and the Home Safety Council urge residents to download free home fire safety information at www.homesafetycouncil.org and to follow this simple advice: • Install smoke alarms and keep them working.

• Purchase smoke alarms that are listed by UL. (Look for the UL mark on packaging.)

• Install smoke alarms outside sleeping areas and put at least one on every level, including the basement.

• For additional protection, install additional smoke alarms inside each room where people sleep.

• Test all smoke alarms at least monthly by pushing the “test” button. Climb on a sturdy step-ladder, or use a broom handle to push the button.

• Install fresh batteries in all smoke alarms yearly, or when the alarm “chirps” indicating low battery power.

• Replace smoke alarms every eight to ten years.

• Develop a fire escape plan and practice it twice a year.

• Sketch out a floor plan of your home, including all rooms, windows, interior and exterior doors, stairways, fire escapes, and smoke alarms. Make sure that every family member is familiar with the layout.

• Identify and remedy anything in your home that could possibly interfere with your ability to get out quickly in an emergency, such as windows that are stuck or heavy furniture blocking an exit.

Fall 2005

• You need a primary and secondary exit. If you have a multi-story home, consider your need to purchase fire escape ladders for upstairs bedrooms. If so, they should be part of your fire drill, deployed safely from a ground-floor window for practice.

• Push the test button on your smoke alarm to ensure everyone will recognize the sound of the alarm if it goes off.

• Select two escape routes from each room and mark them clearly on the plan.

• Ensure that family members with special needs, such as someone who is ill or frail, or small children, have a buddy to help them get out safely. If anyone in the household has a hearing impairment, purchase special smoke alarms that use strobes and/or vibrations to signal a fire.

• Designate a place to meet outside so that everyone can be accounted, and someone can be assigned to go to a neighbor’s to call your community’s emergency number. In Upper St. Clair that number is 412-833-7500.

• Make copies of the escape plan sketches and post them in each room until everyone becomes familiar with them.

• Practice makes perfect. Every second counts during a real fire. Hold family fire drills frequently and at various times until the escape plan becomes second nature.

Once you’ve mastered the escape process, hold a drill when family members are sleeping so you can test each family member’s ability to waken and respond to the smoke alarm.

• Young children are especially susceptible to heavy sleeping and may not awaken. If any family member does not waken on his or her own during the drill, assign a buddy to help them waken and escape in future fire drills and in a real fire emergency.

• Early warning is a key element of your fire escape plan. Every home needs working smoke alarms on each story and protecting every place that people sleep. 

Fire Department Receives FEMA Grant Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department was awarded $143,125 in

grant funding to replace its self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Congressman Tim Murphy presented the check to the fire department at a Board of Commissioners meeting this past spring.

Chief Brian Reddecliff said, “I am very thankful to Congressman Murphy for the support and guidance that he has given to the fire department.” These much needed grant funds will go towards the purchase of new breathing apparatus.

This purchase will mean that the men and women of our fire department will be better protected when working in hazardous environments. They will be safer, which means that everyone in our community will be safer.

The fire department will use the grant money to replace approximately 60 air cylinders. (The average age of the old cylinders is 11 years.) The new SCBA will bring the fire department into compliance

Congressman Tim Murphy presents a check to USCVFD firefighters.

with the latest NFPA standards and provide protection from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents. 

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Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

39

Savvy Seniors

Senior Citizens Visit Alaska J. Alice Lesica

The happy travelers aboard the Sun Princess, left to right: John Lesica, Betsey Krebs, Alice Lesica, and Marion Harris

Alaska, What a Grand Summer Trip!

Five members of the United Senior

Citizens group (Betsey Krebs, Marion Harris, Betty Stearns, and Alice and John Lesica) traveled to Alaska last summer along with AARP Pittsburgh Southwest Chapter 506. It was a land and sea cruise aboard the Sun Princess.

Blessed with good weather, the group left Pittsburgh and flew to Fairbanks, where the travelers checked into the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. On the first evening they had their first glimpse of the midnight sun. While on a City of Gold tour the next day, they visited the El Dorado Gold Mine and had the experience of panning for gold. While it was interesting and fun, it was also a little expensive—as nearly all who panned purchased a lovely little locket for $50 to hold the free gold!

Each USC traveler came home with a few special memories. Marion Harris enjoyed visiting the galley on the Sun

Princess and watching the chefs prepare warmth and protection from rough ice. the meals that were served to the travelers. Occasional checkpoints provide drop offs, Marion has since moved from the Upper St. where dogs unable to continue can be left Clair area, but took with her fond memo- and flown home.

In March 1985, Libby Riddles was the ries of the USC Wednesday lunches, day fi rst woman to win the Iditarod. Later, trips, Monday afternoon bowling excurSusan Butcher also won the one thousandsions, and, most importantly, the friendly mile race.

Both women continue to raise people who belong to the Township’s seand train Huskies to be sled dogs. nior citizens’ group.

In Skagway, John and Alice Lesica exBetty Stearns, a great helper at our perienced a thrilling Alaskan adventure as weekly luncheons and a member of our a team of powerful Huskies pulled them bowling group, is a dog lover! On any through the backcountry of a historic gold Wednesday at the center, she’ll gladly talk rush site.

They had a glimpse of the unique about her Alaska tour of Jeff King’s Sled Dog Camp near Denali Park. King, a three- northern lifestyle as they saw these dogs time champion of the Iditarod Sled Dog in action. They, too, had the pleasurable Race, talked about the trials of mushing in experience of being able to cuddle some a race—killer storms, temperatures as low adorable puppies.

Betsey Krebs, current president of the as minus 60 degrees, a grueling two weeks United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, with six-hour runs, resting, melting snow enjoyed the train ride at the El to fix warm meals for the dogs, Dorado Gold Mine, the tour of and very little sleep. the ship’s galley, and most of As shown in the photo, all, the rain forest in Juneau, Betty was first introduced to which provided an easy hikKing’s dogs by cuddling a tiny, ing adventure into the Alaska whimpering puppy. Musher wilderness. She learned about King has 40 adult dogs trained the forest’s hidden stories and or learning to run in sled dog complex rhythms and cycles teams. Fifteen of them barked as she traveled under the excitedly and danced on their thick canopy of the towering hind legs in anticipation of spruce and hemlock trees. demonstrating their skills as What did everyone do they were harnessed to pull a Betty Stearns this past summer? Join the tractor around the camp. cuddles a Husky puppy at Jeff King’ s Sled Dog Camp.

United Senior Citizens on any Huskies have two layers of Wednesday at the Recreation fur for insulation, and they curl Center for lunch and various activities, and up together under the snow when sleepyou’ll have a chance to fi nd out!  ing. While running, they wear booties for

Gold Card

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, apply now for your Gold Card. See and enjoy drama and musical performances, exciting athletic events, and other activities, courtesy of the Upper St. Clair School District.

If you are a resident, 62 years of age or older, just stop by the School District receptionist desk and ask for your Gold Card! It’s a great way to experience your community.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Silver Card

Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair, the Recreation and Leisure Services Department offers for your consideration the Silver Card. Holders of this card are entitled to free admittance to the three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, and family swim at the High School pool.

Any resident age 62 and retired or age 65 with no restrictions is eligible for the Silver Card Program.

Applications are available at the Recreation Department, so stop in and ask for your Silver Card!

Community Are you a retired resident Development of Upper St. Clair, age 55 or older?

What a team! $15 million in sales in 2004

Would you enjoy: • Making new friends • Playing bridge or other card games • Bowling • Shooting pool • Going on day trips • Or just talking with friends, old and new?

Members of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair cordially invite you to have lunch at the Upper St. Clair Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road on any Wednesday that is convenient for you.

The center is open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. for the Township’s senior citizens. Not only will you be served a hot lunch, dessert, and beverage, but, also, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy interesting and varied programs, presentations, and entertainment sponsored by the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. All you have to do is join us!  To make a reservation, or for more information, please contact Betsey Krebs, president, at 412-835-9199; John Lesica, membership, at 412-221-2289; or the Township’s Older Adult Coordinator at 412-831-9000, extension 296.

Attention Senior Citizens, age 65 and older: If you would like to register for the ACCESS 65 PLUS shared-ride transportation program or make application for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen Identification Card to be used for the Port Authority Transit system, please contact the Older Adult Coordinator, Township of Upper St. Clair, 412-831-9000, extension 296.

Stormwater Phase II As a part of the Clean Water Act of 1977,

the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has undertaken steps to help eliminate pollutants entering the bodies of water in Pennsylvania. DEP requires each municipality to obtain a stormwater permit if they have their own storm sewer system. In order to help eliminate pollution in the Township of Upper St. Clair, there are six categories that can be utilized to protect our streams.

Bonnie

Marlene

Bonnie Detwiler ext. 158 Marlene McNaughton ext. 122

1. Public education and outreach.

412-831-0100

2. Public participation/involvement.

3. Illicit discharge detection and elimination.

4. Construction site runoff controls.

5. Post-construction stormwater management.

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6. Pollution prevention/good housekeeping.

Each of these has activities that the municipality must conduct in order to comply with the permit that the DEP issues. The program is entering its third year and everything is going well in the Township.

As a part of the second category entitled “Public Participation/Involvement,” the Township, with the help of local boy scouts, has been installing curb markers.

Some of you within the Painters Run and McLaughlin Run watersheds may have noticed the “No Dumping, Drains to Stream” markers adhered to the pavement above each storm inlet.

There are still three watersheds to go, and we need your help. If you would like to participate in the curb marking program, please contact Shannon Miller at the Department of Planning and Community Development at 412-831-9000, extension 501.  Please visit our stormwater management website for more information at www.twpusc.org/comdev/stormwater/index.html.

Fall 2005

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P INEBRIDGE Pinebridge Commons McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road ••••••••••••••••• Carlson Wagonlit Travel Cathy Davin Interior Design Common Ground Café Design Image Salon Forest Ridge Land Co. Peter Gialames & Associates Henderson Investment Corp.

Jimcor Associates, Inc. Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Larry E. Manalo, DMD Pediatric Alliance

Pediatric Dentistry South Piccolina’s Restaurant Pinebridge Commons Assoc.

Primary Physicians Research Questa Petroleum Co. REFCO Eric J. Reitz DMD & Gary J. Yanniello, DMD South Hills Financial Group State Farm Insurance Suburban Dry Cleaners Weidmann Technical Services

•••••••••••••••••

for leasing information, please call Pinebridge Commons Associates (412) 220-9288

TIMOTHY J. KERR, D.M.D. ROMANA PAUTLER KERR, D.M.D. FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY Chairside Whitening System

PINEBRIDGE COMMONS SUITE 207 1580 McLAUGHLIN RUN RD. UPPER ST. CLAIR, PA 412-257-4250

4242 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2005 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall Fall 2005

Northern Italian Restaurant “ Come visit with the little one” Private Conference Room Now holding wine dinners & specialty evenings Al Fresco Dining Expanded Dining Room Reservations suggested  Gift Certificates available

Phone (412) 257-1880 Fax (412) 257-2895 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd., Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Visit our website: www.piccolinas.com

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EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TO HELP YOU CREATE AN EXPRESSION OF YOUR UNIQUE STYLE AND PERSONALITY IN YOUR HOME.

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If you are looking for a destination specialist, we have them. Our Vacation specialists include everywhere from the Caribbean, Europe to Australia. Our European specialists are Austria, Great Britain, Ireland, Hungary, Switzerland and the Scandinavian countries. We also have a Master Cruise Counselor for all cruise markets and a Group and Incentive specialist.

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Fall 2005 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 4343 Fall 2005 ST. CLAIR TODAY

Tri-Community South EMS

equipment for the treatment of heart patients. The system recently replaced its existing cardiac monitor-defibrillators with seven new Medtronic Physio-Control Lifepak 12 units. The new

monitors replace seven older examples of the same design, but the new units include capnometry capability to aid in monitoring the effectiveness of ventilation during resuscitation, and provide biphasic cardiac defibrillation, proven to be more effective at lower energy levels than the older monophasic defibrillators. The new monitors also include non-invasive blood pressure monitoring, cardiac monitoring with 12-lead EKG capability, pulse oximetry, and transcutaneous cardiac pacing.

Using cellular or fixed-line telephones, paramedics can transmit diagnostic quality 12-lead electrocardiograms from their cardiac monitors to the Lifenet receiving station in the hospital emergency department. This information can be critical in helping field paramedics and hospital personnel to determine whether a heart attack is in progress, and to help them plan a course of treatment for the patient.

The system evaluated cardiac monitor-defibrillator units from the three leading manufacturers, and determined that the Lifepak 12 best suited the system’s needs. It is fully compatible with the system’s existing equipment, and the entire staff has been fully oriented to the device’s new features. The units are in service and have been performing well. 

EMS Tax Clarification

Homeland Security Drill

In 2004, the Pennsylvania General Assembly passed an act allow-

Tri-Community South EMS participated in the May 7, 2005,

ing municipalities to replace the $10 Occupational Privilege Tax with a new tax of up to $52. This tax is levied by municipalities on those who work in the municipality, and therefore use or place demands on the municipality’s emergency services and municipal infrastructure. Because of this, the tax was named the “Emergency and Municipal Services Tax.” Unfortunately, most municipalities who adopted this tax and most payroll services use the acronym “EMS Tax.” This is confusing, since EMS is the commonly accepted acronym for Emergency Medical Services.

In most cases, municipalities that adopted the tax use the revenue to fund emergency and municipal services within the existing municipal budget, and reallocate revenue from other sources such as property and income taxes to other municipal projects. In general, the money is not used to expand, enhance, or provide additional revenue for emergency services.

Tri-Community South EMS would like the residents and workers of Bethel Park, South Park, and Upper St. Clair to know that the EMS tax does not support Tri-Community South in any way.

Though it’s owned by the municipalities, Tri-Community South EMS does not rely on municipal tax monies for any of its operating or capital expenses. It is supported entirely by service fees, insurance reimbursements, and the annual subscription drive.

Your support of the subscription drive is necessary for Tri-Community South to continue to be able to provide quality emergency care and response. 

Homeland Security Drill held at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park. The exercise was intended to test the ability of emergency services in Southwestern Pennsylvania to respond to a mass casualty incident involving chemical or biological weapons, as well as explosive devices and conventional weapons, structural collapse, and terrorist activity. Police, fire, and EMS agencies from Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and surrounding counties participated along with the FBI and other federal agencies, regional task forces, and area hospitals.

The exercise simulated an attack with explosives and nerve agents, with secondary explosions and the collapse of a part of the park structure. About 5000 volunteers from the community were present in the park and about 300 became the simulated injured. The emergency service personnel, using the standard incident command model, practiced decontamination procedures and treatment for nerve agents, patient triage, staging, and transportation.

Tri-Community South sent two full ambulance crews to participate in the drill. All of Tri-Community South’s ambulances are equipped with, and the personnel are fully trained in the use of, personal protective gear including Level B and Level C hazardous materials suits. This allows Tri-Community South’s crews to work in hazardous conditions for limited periods and assist in decontamination operations. At this exercise, Tri-Community South’s units transported eight simulated patients to area hospitals. With over 40 area ambulances participating in the drill, all patients that needed to be transported were handled within two hours.

The drill was monitored and evaluated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Lessons learned from this exercise will be applied not only in local operations, but also at the national level.

Major League Baseball personnel also evaluated the exercise, since this was the first time that a mass evacuation of any MLB ballpark has been attempted. 

Commissioner Bill Bates (right) presents a Proclamation to members of Tri-Community South EMS recognizing May 15-21, 2005, as EMS Week in Upper St. Clair.

Equipment Upgrade Tri-Community South EMS is continuing to upgrade its

For questions, call Tri-Community South at 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit its website at www.tcsems.org.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Trotwood Hills Book Club Celia Christman How often do you see your neighbors? I know, you see your neighbors who

live just across the street and next door, but do you see the ones around the bend or down the street? In Trotwood Hills, with over 200 homes, I have many neighbors, and it’s hard for all of us to connect. Every year our homeowner’s association holds events for kids as well as adults. The progressive dinner, held each spring, allows adults to gather (usually about 20 couples) and travel from home to home for delicious food and enjoyable company.

As the last guests were leaving our dessert house last year, I thought how sad it was that we would probably not see many of these people for another year. A few days later, while talking on the phone with my father in Fort Collins, Colorado, we discussed his men’s book club. Their newest read was The DaVinci Code. I had also read this book, and we had our own mini-book club meeting right then and there. My husband and I have always loved to read. As a matter of fact, we met at a library!

A few days after I had talked with my dad, the thought struck me to start a book club in my own neighborhood—Trotwood Hills Book Club (THBC). I called Genie Gooding, our association’s newsletter writer, to request an article be placed in the next issue of the Trotwood Hills newsletter about the start of the new book club.

One week had passed and I received only four calls; I was discouraged. My goal was to connect neighbors on a monthly basis through reading, and I wanted to reach out to as many neighbors as I could. So, I pulled out our association directory and phoned every house listed. When I was done, I’d found 36 women who were interested in attending our first evening book club meeting in March 2004 at my house.

We met in multiple groups and discussed the book The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith. Armed with an agenda and rules to help govern meetings and book selections, I presented myself to the club as merely its founder.

This wonderful group of ladies, though, would not stand for that. “Our club is a success because of the leadership and vi-

sion of Celia Christman,” offers Phyllis Deibler. “Celia encourages the group to read on, which we do avidly with great enthusiasm. Our book discussions are exciting,” says Lillian Horey.

Although I appreciate such compliments, there would be no book club without members. So conversely, I am excited and thrilled that a new opportunity has opened up in Trotwood Hills for women to connect on a regular basis.

Members of the Trotwood Hills Book Club

On each of our monthly agendas is this statement: The Trotwood Hills Book Club is an organization of neighborhood women who connect with their neighbors through literary discussion. Enjoy this club as a gift of friendship to each other. There will be some who have read the books, and some who have not. Every neighbor who comes will be welcomed.

We choose our discussion books from recommendations of the group, and five books make the final cut after they meet certain criteria. We specify our book selections two months ahead to give members ample time for reading.

Over the past year, our monthly meetings have varied in attendance from 15 to 38 women. At our largest meeting, Mary Kay Walsh enabled us to speak (via speakerphone) with Camron Wright, the author of that month’s book, Letters for Emily. What a thrill it was to talk with him about his book after we had just discussed it. Presently, 60 members receive a monthly email newsletter with book club news and recommendations. Currently there are 90 recommended books on our list.

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities within the club from hosting, to providing refreshments, to planning the questions for discussion. Through a combination of the Internet (a wonderful

source of questions for the more popular books) and personal reflection, we always have thought-provoking questions.

Since we break into small groups during discussion, we ask for small group leader volunteers to keep the discussion moving and keep track of the time.

After an hour of discussion and voting on the next book, we reconvene as one group to discuss new issues. We get a report from our THBC librarian, Sherry Small, about the circulation of our recommended books in our neighborhood library housed in her home. Then it’s time to enjoy refreshments and socialize.

“A nice way to spend an evening with friends and books!” says Nancy Cohen.

“It is delightful to see neighbors walking to homes carrying books. The meetings are interesting and the conversations animated,” adds Mary Kay Walsh.

One of our co-presidents of the Trotwood Hills Homeowner’s Association, Lynn Rubin, says, “In this day and age, when electronic communication seems to dominate our culture, Trotwood Hills can indeed say that people are reading books and talking about them face to face.”

A wonderful bi-product of the THBC is that it has brought people together who normally may not associate with one another. We are represented by many cultures and ages from 30 to 80 years old. Tammy Singleton-English says, “The THBC has presented a wonderful opportunity to meet neighbors of all ages and backgrounds. In discussing books, we have discovered many things that we have in common with one another regardless of profession, age, or life situation.”

Cindy Buckholt (a new resident) and Natalie Trachtenberg (a neighborhood veteran) both say they’ve gotten to know many new neighbors as a result of their involvement with the club. “Our book club brings us together to share the joy we find in a good book. It’s a great way to connect with women who you might not otherwise have the chance to know,” says Paula Frauen.

Kim Saghy sums up it all up by saying, “Reading, conversation, friendship, and food.

What more could a woman want?” 

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

45

Looking beyond what makes you wealthy to protect what makes life rich.

At Mellon, we understand that knowing how to manage your wealth is just the beginning.

We also need to know you. Which is so much easier when we’re not only a leader in wealth management across the nation, but we’re also just around the corner.

For more information, please contact: Carolyn Kozlowski in South Hills at 412-833-6368.

Mellon Financial Corporation Asset Management Institutional Asset Management Mutual Funds Private Wealth Management Corporate and Institutional Services Asset Servicing Payment Solutions and Investor Services Treasury Services www.mellon.com

46

© 2005 Mellon Financial Corporation

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Protect your family

with the home

team.

Whether it’s Upper St. Clair’s little league team, Upper St. Clair’s high school football team, or one of our very own soccer teams, you’ll always find us rooting for the home team. And when it comes to protecting your family or business against an untimely loss, we hope you’ll do the same...with the Alcorn Christie Insurance Agency. We’re insurance professionals who have served both individual and business clients in this area for over 56 years by offering coverage from America’s leading life insurance companies. Whether you have a family or business to protect, the life insurance professionals at Alcorn Christie Insurance Agency will work as a team to make sure you find the coverage and service you need.

Alcorn Christie Insurance Agency Mark D. Christie, President, CIC, CRM Joseph E. Kovacic, Life Insurance Specialist Executive Commons 110 Roessler Road, Suite 200C Pittsburgh, PA 15220 Phone: (412) 563-7828 Fax: (412) 563-7833 E-mail: mchristie@alcornchristie.com

Our greatest investment continues to be in relationships.

It’s no secret that there’s uncertainty in today’s economy.

That’s why now—more than ever—the advice of a Financial Advisor can be an important part of your wealth management strategy.

That’s why you want us on your team. Employing a total wealth management approach, our Financial Advisors provide customized investment strategies that are designed to help investors accumulate, preserve and transfer their wealth. We view it as an all-encompassing approach to your investment and financial life—taking into account your asset and liability needs.

With wealth management services built on a consultative process, our Financial Advisors work with you to understand your specific needs and to provide customized solutions.

For a complimentary consultation, call:

Kevin D. Smith, Financial Advisor 412-288-2709 800-472-2795 kevin.d.smith@ubs.com Fifth Avenue Place 120 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2800 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 www.ubs.com/financialservicesinc C 2005 UBS Financial Services Inc. All Rights Reserved. Member SIPC.

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

47

Cracking Your Retirement Nest Egg Three Steps to Creating an Income and Protecting What You’ve Saved Les Botkin and Sara Botkin, CFP® The last guest had left Bob’s retirement party, but the sound of “Congratulations!” still rang in his ears. Indeed, Bob had reason to feel proud. His distinguished, 30-year career had come to a successful conclusion, and he and his wife, Judy, were preparing for a retirement filled with travel and time with grandchildren. “I’m thrilled,” acknowledges Bob, “but, I’m nervous. I’ve worked all my life for my nest egg, and now I have to make it work for me. Where do I begin?”

After a lifetime of hard work and diligent saving, many retirees wonder how to turn their 401(k) or lump sum pension into an income stream in retirement while still protecting their principal. Here are three steps for success: 1. Create an investment plan. In order to open a world of investment opportunity, it makes sense to roll over your 401(k) or pension into a self-directed IRA. 401(k)s and pensions are limited in what they can invest in, and many have proprietary funds with high expenses and lackluster returns. You don’t have to go far to find a company that has gone belly-up; thus it is advisable to remove your money and get it under your control. Next, consider your goals and risk tolerance when choosing from stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and annuities. For Bob and Judy, investments 48

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

that pay dividends was the game plan. Dividends are like having a head start in a race. If you have them, you don’t have to run as fast (or take as much risk) to reach the finish line.

Bonds, too, are an important part of a diversified portfolio. Though over time they may not offer as much growth as stocks, bonds provide a steady stream of income and reduce the ups and downs of your portfolio. There are excellent variable annuities that offer guaranteed income and protection of principal. These can work for investors who don’t need access to more than ten percent of their money each year.

2. Withdraw conservatively. The average annual return in the stock market since 1925 has been approximately 12%. Can you withdraw 12% of your portfolio each year without touching your principal?

Not quite. Such an aggressive withdrawal plan doesn’t work because some years, a diversified portfolio will lose ten percent The bigger percentage you’re taking from your portfolio each year, the more difficult it will be for the market to replenish what you’ve withdrawn, especially when you’ve sold at a loss. To know what that means to you, divide your portfolio by 200; that will give you the monthly income you can reasonably withdraw from your account.

Fall 2005

3. Rebalance. Rebalancing (taking the profits of your best-performing investments and redistributing them over the rest of your investments) should take place once a year. Rebalancing can be difficult to do.

In 1999, some investors balked at the recommendation to sell part of their technology stock and invest profits into bonds. “Are you crazy?” they asked. “Tech made 40% last year! Why would I sell it?” They found out why, when in 2000 the tech industry and its stock prices came crashing down. Those who had rebalanced suffered much less than those who refused. It’s not always fun to sell what’s doing the best, but it can protect you when markets turn sour.

Retirement may mark the end of a career, but it marks the beginning of a new phase of your financial life. By sticking with financial planning principles that have worked for decades, you’ll increase the chance of creating a comfortable and dependable income stream from your hatched nest egg.  Les and Sara Botkin are a unique father-daughter team of financial planners at Hefren-Tillotson, a full-service investment advisory firm headquartered in Pittsburgh.

For help in creating your retirement plan, contact them at 412-833-5777.

Enrich Each Decade of Your Life Parry Kokalis

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Lee Boyd and Parry Kokalis, adult reference librarians

Enrich each decade of your life. Visit our Library and use the many excellent resources to guide you through a healthy, happy, financially-secure life.

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by Peter J. Strauss and Nancy M. Lederman Gary Null’s Power Aging by Gary Null How to Plan for a Secure Retirement

by Barry Dickman and Trudy Lieberman Long Term Health Care by Philip W. Brickner The Merck Manual of Health & Aging

by Mark H. Beers, MD The New Retirement

by Jan Cullinane and Cathy Fitzgerald The Only Investment Guide You’ll Ever Need

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by Covert Bailey Travel Unlimited: Uncommon Adventures for the Mature Traveler by Alison Gardner Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die

by Steve Davey

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The Wellness Guide to Lifelong Fitness

by Timothy P. White, Ph.D. Fall 2005

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

49

Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

Meet John Rozzo The newest face on Fort Couch’s

Angela B. Petersen President 412-831-7182 2007*

Jeffrey W. Joyce Vice President 412-257-1704 2007*

David E. Bluey 412-835-6145 2005*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2007*

administrative team is that of Assistant Principal John Rozzo. “I felt welcomed as soon as I walked in the door,” he stated, adding that both the students and staff were very welcoming.

A Penn State alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in education, John received his M.Ed. from California University of Pennsylvania. He plans to return to school this fall to begin working on his doctorate.

John taught in the West Mifflin School District for a year before joining the Brentwood School District, where he was a middle school science teacher for five years. While at Brentwood he also coached high school football and weightlifting.

John feels fortunate that he’s spent his career working with middle school students. “I really enjoy these kids,” he remarked.

“There’s no other place I’d rather be. It’s a very important time in their lives, and this is where a lot of them start to figure out what they want to do with their future. It’s great to be able to help guide them.”

John, his wife, Shauna, and their daughter, Sydney, currently live in Pleasant Hills. 

On to Oregon On Friday, April 22, eighth grade students from Fort Couch

Russ Del Re 724-941-3336 2005*

Glenn Groninger 412-854-5345 2007*

Vicki A. McKenna 412-831-7125 2005*

Clark R. Nicklas 412-831-1027 2005*

Mark G. Trombetta, MD 412-831-8543 2007*

The 2005 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 School Board meeting room. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.

*Date indicates expiration of term.

5050 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 2005 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall Fall 2005

set out as the settlers did in the mid 1800s from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon City, Oregon, right here in USC! After completing rigorous class assignments in their language arts and social studies classes, including note taking, presentations, journal entries, and computer quests, the students from team six explored a fun day as they re-enacted the journey.

Each student was part of a six-member wagon train that collaborated as a team, and used their very own guidebooks to assist them as they encountered various obstacles. Students learned the history of the Oregon Trail, the reasons settlers left their homes and traveled west, the hardships they encountered, as well as the landmarks and places of interest they found along the way. In addition, students learned about Native Americans and how they felt about the migration westward. All the activities were across the curriculum and included reading, literature, English, writing, U.S. geography, U.S. history, math, art, and technology.

During the exercise, the team walked approximately two miles through the Township and Gilfillan trail. The day ended in a celebration at the USC Recreation Center, which included a cookout, original dance competitions, and student-constructed raft racing.

This outdoor activity let the students experience true hands-on learning, which was filled with fun and exciting challenges! 

Commencement Speech 2005 Dr. James D. Lombardo, Ed. D, Superintendent of Schools A commencement speech is a par-

ticularly difficult assignment. The speaker is expected to inspire all the graduates with a stirring speech. I suppose that’s why so many administrators are asked to be commencement speakers; they’re in the habit of talking extensively even when they have nothing to say.

So, what’s all this hoopla about a commencement? Commencement: the beginning.

Strange isn’t it? Most of you thought commencement was the end of something, but if you look up the word in Webster’s, it really is the beginning, kind of a birthday. And like a birthday, it is a day when you get lots of presents, act polite to your annoying brother or sister, and see a lot of people that you really don’t know, whom your mom invited anyway, and you probably won’t remember after they leave—kind of like this speech.

So, what happens next? What decisions lie ahead? Most of you have already made some very big choices—whether to wear shorts under your cap and gown and, of course, which college to attend next fall.

Some of the 339 of you will find that you made the perfect college choice. You’ll pick your major and stick with it for all four years. Your courses will be wonderfully inspiring and you’ll graduate in four years, get hired by a multi-national corporation, become rich, marry your true love, have two children (a boy and a girl), and retire to a chalet in Breckenridge or a beach house at Hilton Head at the age of 50.

The other 337 of you will have to make lots of decisions throughout the next four years and beyond. Twenty-five percent of you will drop out of college before your junior year, another twenty-five percent will change schools at least once in the next four years.

Half of you will change majors twice before your senior year. All of you will run up about $10, 000 in credit card debt, and most of you will not remember a single one of your professors five years after you graduate.

I know that the decisions I made after high school didn’t work out exactly as I had planned, but at the time I didn’t know that they wouldn’t. I went to Middlebury College in Vermont to become a math major, which I dropped three weeks into my first college calculus class. Second semester I became a chemistry major, which I dropped in the fall of my sophomore year after I got a D+ on my organic chemistry

Dr. James D. Lombardo

final. Like any good child of the 60s, I pined to become a musician, but the fact that my best instrument was the kazoo got in the way of that dream. I did like to write, and in my junior year, I switched to English as a major. Halfway through my senior year, I started wondering what I was going to do in June when I graduated, so I signed up for a teacher ed course and found myself with a teaching job offer from the local high school. In those days in Vermont, getting a teaching job was pretty easy. Have a degree, take a course, and start teaching.

Members of the class of 2005, you have achieved wonderful things during your four years at USC. Under your leadership and hard work, you have added much to the world community, raising over $18,000 to aid the flood-ravaged citizens of Carlynton, and responding to the needs of the Tsunami victims in Thailand.

Most of you have been extremely successful here at USC, but high school and your accomplishments here are not necessarily predictive of your future success. It’s the kind of thing where the path that you choose for next year will simply be that, a path. The destination at the end of that path may look a whole lot different when you get there. And the path itself, much like the yellow brick road for Dorothy, might just be the very best part of the whole experience.

I guess this is the place in the speech where I’m supposed to give you some inspiring advice, but the truth is I’m kind of “adviced out.” Let’s see what advice others have given.

Famous science fiction writer Ray Bradbury wrote: Right after graduation

today, make a list of the people who don’t believe in you… and tell them to go fly a kite! Then you gather around you the people who do believe in you, and you give them a great big hug.

Well-known entertainer Oprah Winfrey told a graduating class at her alma mater, Wellesley College: When people show you who they are, believe them, the first time. Not the 29th time! When you see someone who shows you a lack of integrity or dishonesty the first time, know that that will be followed by many, many, many other times that will at some point in life come back to haunt or hurt you.

Writer Suzan Lori Parks spoke these words: Cultivate the ability to think for yourself. When someone gives you advice, if what they suggest jives with what you’ve got going on inside, then you follow their suggestion. On the other hand, there are lots of people out there who will encourage you to stray from your heart’s desire. Go ahead and let them speak their piece but, if what they suggest does not jive with the thoughts and feelings that are already alive and growing beautifully inside you, then don’t follow their suggestion. Think for yourself, listen to your heart, tune in to your gut.

Then, of course, there’s Anjella Jasinski Lombardo, my mom. When I went off to college, she left me a note, tucked along with my bell-bottom jeans and tie-dye T-shirts: Brush your teeth twice a day, wash out your underwear, be nice to your roommate, and go to your classes—most of them, anyway. I love you, Mom. In closing, I would leave each of you with the hope that as you make your own choices over time, you will choose in such a way that allows your drive for achievement to be balanced by an equal commitment to love and to play, to family, and to friends and community. I hope that when you are, as the poet William Butler Yeats once wrote “old and gray and full of sleep,” that you can say that your goal in life was not simply the attainment of some external measure of success, but instead the provision of some measure of value to the world you encounter along your life’s path.

It is that wish I leave you with today, along with my heartiest congratulations on this day that means so much to you and to your families. 

Fall 2005

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Board Response— Students Educated with Care Angela Petersen, Upper St. Clair School Board President Graduation day is a time to honor the

Class of 2005—to celebrate accomplishments and anticipate all that lies ahead. To the graduates and their families, I extend the sincere congratulations of the Directors of the Upper St. Clair School Board; to the teachers and administrators, you have our heartfelt gratitude and respect.

We are here to witness the coming of age of a generation. It is a milestone that brings us that much closer to the day when these children of our community will be in positions of leadership. This is an opportunity to reflect on these students who were educated with deliberate care.

The world is a difficult place. One need only read a newspaper or turn on the television to confirm the problems that are part of everyday life. Our problems as a nation and a society are vast and serious, but they are not insurmountable.

While no one can claim to have the answers, the citizens of Upper St. Clair clearly understand the path toward the solution: education! It is the means by which individuals better themselves and create opportunities for themselves, and in turn, for others. Too many people outside Upper St. Clair do not enjoy the educational opportunity and excellence this community provides.

Hats Off

2005 Grads!

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Angela Petersen

Public schools face a crisis of legitimacy.

In communities across the nation, there are those who question how well schools work and whether they are worth the cost.

I stand before you to reaffirm that in Upper St. Clair our schools do work and are worth the investment.

Philanthropist George Peabody provided millions for education because he was only able to obtain a most common education. In Upper St. Clair we have made a conscious commitment to provide more than the most common education. The citizens of Upper St. Clair have consistently supported the notion embodied in Peabody’s definition of education: A debt due from present to future generations. I believe it is a debt we must not ignore lest we break faith with those who come after us and are relying on us to provide the same educational opportunity and excellence as we have provided to the Class of 2005.

I ask you, the members of the Class of 2005, to look to yourselves to make this world a better place. Trust in yourselves and continue to fulfill your potential.

You have the power to set the example to others, to show them what you know, and even more, to share with them what you know.

Let me remind you of what you have learned:

Fall 2005

• First, stay educated. We have not taught you all that you need to know or all that you ever will know, but we have given you the tools you will need to continue learning. Your education is your greatest asset. A developed mind is your only hope for wisdom, security, and happiness, and an educated society is our only hope for a better world. Take control of your education; be responsible for your intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development.

• Second, live by giving and not by taking. Give of your time and your talents.

You all have the ability to help someone become interested in learning. Giving of yourself will make this world just a little bit better for someone else, and a lot better for you.

• Third, always be responsible for yourself and respectful of others. As tough as the world is, almost all can be accomplished without confrontation.

• Fourth, always strive to do your very best. There’s no satisfaction without it, and without always trying to do your best you’ll never know what you might have accomplished.

• Fifth, embrace honesty in your dealings with all people. It’s never the right thing to convince yourself to do what you know in your heart is wrong. At the end of the day you face yourself in the mirror.

• And finally, learn to be at ease with yourself and to appreciate all that you are and all that you have. Life is not easy, and it’s not always fun, but the quality of your life will be shaped by your approach to it. If you can focus on the positive, your future will be more fulfilling, and you will be happier and more successful in all that you do.

Class of 2005, as you travel the paths that will take you into your future, be confident in the education that the citizens of Upper St. Clair have provided in satisfaction of the debt past generations owed to you. Never forget the value of the debt that your generation now owes to a future generation. The fulfillment of this obligation, to provide others with more than a common education, will reap rewards beyond measure. Congratulations to each of you. 

Upper St. Clair Schools and Township Join Forces to Combat Underage Drinking and Drug Use Dr. James Lombardo, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools Upper St. Clair cares about its children! In May and June, nearly 200

between January and April 2005, officers had responded to seven parties at which parents, students, teachers, and School approximately 100 juveniles were in atDistrict and community officials demontendance. strated their caring by joining together to • Recent newspaper articles point to address the issue of underage drinking and the number of incidents in Allegheny drug use in our community. In a series of County related to illicit drug use, most four discussion sessions jointly sponsored notably heroin. According to a November by the School District and Township, par20, 2004, KDKA report, the number of ticipants worked to develop a series of “overdose incidents” has risen from 110 concrete recommendations aimed at in 2000 to 229 in 2003. making our community an even safer • Thirty-two percent of our USC High environment for our children.

School students reported on the District’s Why bother to address the issue of locally administered Natural Helpers Surunderage alcohol and drug use? After all, vey that the use of alcohol is one of their school disciplinary infractions for violatop ten concerns. tions of the District’s drug and alcohol The series of community forums sucpolicy are at an all time low. In fact, all cessfully brought together students and year school officials reported only four adults to address the issue of underage incidents of alcohol or drug use among alcohol and drug use in a candid and carstudents, all of which occurred at sporting manner. ing or recreational events. Additionally, At the first session, the group condata from the Pennsylvania Youth Survey fronted “the facts” regarding such use.

(PYS) indicates a reduction in the use of Participants heard from a number of marijuana and the incidence of “driving Township and School District officials, the Honorable Judge Patricia McCullough, representatives from the USC Police Department, and several High School student representatives. The attendees also reviewed a packet of data related to the use of alcohol and drugs in Allegheny County and Upper St. Clair.

At the second session participants worked in small groups facilitated by students and community members to create a vision of a safer community for Upper St. Clair.

Each small group shared their ideas with the full assembly, painting a picture of an Upper St. Clair community that is determined to reduce the use of illegal substances by our youth through improved education of students and parents, more apValedictorians (Pictured above, listed alphabetically) propriate disciplinary sanctions and Allison Bode, Christopher Carosella, Robert Dormish, Kathryn Fitzgerald, Jessica Gerber, Christopher Godla, assistance, and a more honest and Joshua Helmrich, Carrie Miller, Andrew Mueller, Zahra Rahman, Kevin Schneider, Sarah Schreiber, Christopher Sukenik, Stephanie Tupi, Brian Weller transparent acknowledgment of the Superintendent’s Academic Achievement Award problem by our community. under the influence” among Pennsylvania youth between 2001 and 2004.

Despite the relatively low incidence of alcohol or drug violations in Upper St. Clair, we know that the illegal use of alcohol or drugs by youth creates significant social and health problems for our communities. The data from a variety of sources tells us that Upper St. Clair is not immune to the dangers associated with such use: • The PYS data tells us that a large percent of our youth experiment with a variety of illegal substances, most notably alcohol and marijuana. Of particular concern is the incidence of “binge drinking” that occurs on weekends by our high school and college-age population. As an example, 48% of our 12th graders indicated in 2003 that they had been involved in such abuse of alcohol “within the last 30 days.”

• Reports from our local police and judicial authorities indicate that alcohol continues to be the primary cause of their involvement with our youth. The USC Police Department reported that

Class of 2005 High School Academic Achievers

Shannon Alesse, Alyssa Brown, Asher Epstein, Sarah Findle, Michelle Lee IB Diploma Graduates Natasha Astor, Audrey Fell, Nicola Kearns, Elysia Tonti

Continued on page 67 Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Phonemic Awareness— Hear the Difference Parents often play silly rhyming games with their young

remediate the needs of our students,” she stated. “An emphasis on children for the fun of it. Asking a four year old to think of all the early intervention is important to future success in reading.” words that rhyme with “pig” often results in a case of the giggles!

One way that the District has attempted to meet the needs of But did you know that your child’s ability to hear the different students that require further development in this critical area, is sounds in our language affects their ability to learn to read? through the Phonemic Awareness Readiness Training Program Phonemic awareness is an element of learning to read that has or PARTners. Initiated through a curriculum recommendation been making headlines in reading research. It may be a term that made by the Elementary Reading and Language Arts Curriculum you have heard mentioned in a parenting magazine or from your Committee and the kindergarten teachers, and led by Curriculum child’s preschool, kindergarten, or first grade teacher. What is it, Leader Mary Quinn, PARTners is an early intervention program and why is it the latest buzzword in the field of reading instruc- aimed at addressing the needs of students who are experiencing tion? How is it being addressed in the Upper St. Clair School difficulty with the acquisition of phonemic awareness skills.

District curriculum?

Early in the kindergarten year, teachers begin ongoing asPhonemic awareness is the sessment of students’ early recognition or attentiveness to literacy skills, including phoPhonemic awareness instruction the separate sounds that make nemic awareness. Classroom has been shown up our language. Children’s activities are designed to ability to hear distinct and support desired learning and to significantly accelerate students’ separate sounds within words student progress is continureading and writing achievement. is a critical component of phoally monitored. In January of nemic awareness and plays an the kindergarten year, teachers important role in reading development. Often confused with the identify students who exhibit deficits in the ability to hear and word “phonics,” phonemic awareness differs in the fact that it verbally manipulate sounds in words. Small groups of students is the ability to hear and differentiate sounds without seeing the are formed. These groups meet twice weekly for intensive, sysletter symbols. It is strictly an auditory skill. tematic, and sequential instruction that addresses phonemic Skills that fall under the umbrella of phonemic awareness awareness skills. include hearing and generating rhymes (mat, sat, rat) and allitAt the end of the school year, students are assessed to detereration (Lovely lions like lollipops.), clapping syllables in words, mine progress. If skills are established, students are discontinued breaking words into individual sounds (/cat/ = /c/ /a/ /t/), blending from this intervention but are monitored throughout first grade individual sounds to form a word (/d/ /o/ /g/ = /dog/) and substitut- to ascertain that their phonemic awareness skills are resulting in ing or deleting a sound in a word (Say tan without the /t/. What do reading progress. Students who continue to demonstrate the need you have? /an/; Change the /t/ in tan to /m/. What do you have? for support continue in PARTners from September to December /man/). These skills begin to develop as children begin to acquire of their first grade year. language and typically solidify before the end of first grade when Because the curriculum development process in Upper St. the ability to read takes root.

Clair requires careful research and study before programs are fully Many research studies report the connection of phonemic implemented, the PARTners program was piloted in 2004 with awareness and learning to read. A strong correlation exists be- a group of Streams’ kindergarten students. The results showed tween phonemic awareness and reading success through grade 12. substantial gains for all students and establishment of phonemic Phonemic awareness can be taught effectively in small increments awareness skills for most of the students before the end of kinand in a relatively short period of time. All students benefit from dergarten. Those students that continued instruction in the fall this type of instruction because it lays the foundation for learn- of first grade also achieved grade level mastery by the end of the ing to formally read and write. Phonemic awareness instruction program in December. The pilot expanded to all three elementary has been shown to significantly accelerate students’ reading and buildings in winter 2005. writing achievement. Because of this, the District’s early literacy The PARTners program has been favorably received by curriculum is rich in phonemic awareness learning. students, teachers, and parents. Skills are presented and pracResearch also indicates that, without direct instructional ticed through game-like activities that students enjoy and support, one out of four first graders has difficulty acquiring don’t necessarily recognize as being educational. The small phonemic awareness skills. Since the evidence overwhelmingly group format ensures individual attention is given to each of supports the importance of these skills, it is crucial to address the learners, and the sequential nature of the program allows phonemic awareness learning in a more intensive fashion for the students to feel successful as their learning builds. Teachers students who have difficulty. Identification of students’ needs, see the learning carry over into the classroom literacy activities systematic and sequential instruction, and monitoring of prog- and are pleased with the attention the students receive and the ress to assure attainment of skills are essential components of a progress that results. phonemic awareness program.

“It is gratifying to see the learning come together for these Dr. Judy Bulazo, Director of Elementary Education for the Dis- students,” commented Mrs. Quinn. “Good instruction that makes trict, agrees. “We take seriously our responsibility to identify and a difference for students is always our goal.”  54

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

USC Odyssey of the Mind Team Competes at World Finals

ch, left to right, State competitors from Fort Cou ; back row: Rachel get Hubbard Brid , saro Mas y Abb : row t fron n, na Bilimoria, Molly Patterso Simmons, Naomi Smith, Riya coach Reid Simmons to: pho from ing miss ; Gite Paritosh

The USC Odyssey of the Mind teams

dominated the Southwestern Odyssey of the Mind competition at Moon Township this past spring.

This year, approximately 520 students from grades kindergarten through 12th participated in this fierce competition. The District sent 13 teams comprised of 78 students. Six of these teams earned first or second place and continued on to compete in the state competition in Altoona in April.

At the state competition, the team of Ian Frazier, Poorwa Godbole, Rishab Nathan, Ian Ridge, Anna Rosati, Jai Sharma, and Mohini Walavalkar, coached by Maureen McCullumb and Susan Rosati, placed second. This performance qualified them to compete at the world competition held in Denver this past May. The USC team was one of two teams to represent Pennsylvania in their division/problem at world finals, where they placed eighth out of 51 teams.

nt row: Boyce, left to right, fro State competitors from Boshoff, David Leyden; a riss Ma ts, Shane Pot nathan; wanathan, Vijay Viswa middle row: Vinay Vis Ganesh Viswanathan ch back row: coa

State competitors fro Troy Baltutat, Mike Ma m Boyce, left to right: rks, Paul Austin Josh Glasser, Nick Collet , Chris Pilch, ti

Odyssey of the Mind is a worldwide creative problem-solving competition for students of all ages. Teams of up to seven children select a problem, create a solution through a performance or the construction of a structure, make scenery and costumes, and compete against other teams of like age and grade level.

A special thank you to the OM sponsors: Tube City, LLC, #1 Cochran, P.J. Dick & Trumbull, National City/Virginia Manor, Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, USC Odyssey of the Mind, Southwestern Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind, M&M Photography, The Rofoxes, Amy Billerbeck, Lynn Duda, Maria Landy, Kelly Walsh, and everyone who bought Coke coupon books and Sarris candy. î Ž

State competi front row: Ryan Ha tors from Eisenhower, left to right, Sydney Turnwald, rding, Helena Zatawski, Shannon Spence, Jaime Lease, Mega Corinne Zatawsk i, coach Michelle n Kelly; back row: coach Turnwald, Joshua Simmons

Fast Professional Real Estate Appraisals Offering Real Estate Appraisal and Consulting for Mortgage Financing, Purchase, Listing, Estate and Assessment Appeals

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State competitors from the High School, front row, left to right: Ali Klos, Johnny Simons, David Bucholtz; back row: Lucas Wilson, coach Ed Wilson, Raymond VanCleve, Noah Simmons

, s from Streams, front row State and world competitor Ian Ridge, Anna Rosati; , zier Fra Ian left to right: e, Mohini Walavalkar, back row: Poorwa Godbol Jai Sharma , han Rishab Nat Fall 2005

Phone 412.833.2760 Fax 412.833.6659 37 McMurray Road, Upper St. Clair UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

55

Foreign Exchange

USC High School Activities Anime/Manga Club

Law Club

Art Club

L.I.N.K.

3-D Art Club

Latin Club

Marching Band

Library Aides

Bookstore

Majorettes

Basketball

Mathematics League

Baseball

Model U.N. Club

Breaking Barriers

Montage (literary publication)

Broadcasting Club

Multicultural Club

Campus News Video Club

Music (choral and instrumental)

CHANGES

National Honor Society

Cheerleading

Natural Helpers

Chess Club

Orchestra

Choral Groups

Panther Pride

Clairvoyant (yearbook)

Pantherettes

Color Guard

Principal’s Advisory Committee (PAC)

Computer Programming Club Crew Team Cross Country Fall Play Fencing Club Fishing Club Field Hockey Film Club Football Forensics F.R.I.E.N.D.S. French Club Freshman Class Officers Future Business Leaders Association GSA German Club

Help Club Ice Hockey Improv Club Inline Hockey Club Interact Club Japanese Club Junior Class Officers Lacrosse Clubs

PTSO Quill and Scroll Rifle Team Rugby Senior Class Officers Students Against Drunk Driving Science Scholars Soccer Softball Sophomore Class Officers Spanish Club

Stage Crew St. Clarion (High School newspaper) Student Council

Tennis Thespian Society Track USC Serves Volleyball World Affairs Club Wrestling Xcept

Guidelines for Dress in Schools Beginning August 31, 2005 No hats.

Undergarments should not be visible.

No bare midrifts.

Shorts and skirts of reasonable length.

T-shirts should not display inappropriate messages.

56

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

USC and German students enjoyed a meal at Café Euro!

Gimme a Beat!

Spring Musical

For information, call 412-833-1600.

• • • • •

a group of German foreign exchange students this past April. Elysia Tonti called the experience an “amazing opportunity” to foster relationships and show others our country and culture.

Jared Larkin echoed many of Tonti’s sentiments, stating that it was a good time learning about another culture. He said it also helped to dispel some of the stereotypes people from other countries might have had about Americans.

Ben Fassbender, one of the students visiting USC, called the trip a “huge experience,” explaining that most of them had never been to another continent. He said the United States was like another world and much bigger than he expected.

Left to right: Ben Fassbender and Johannes Kloock enjoyed their visit to Upper St. Clair.

Swimming and Diving

Golf

Upper St. Clair students and their families had the opportunity to share our culture with

Another foreign exchange student, Johannes Kloock, said he was really enjoying his trip. He also commented on how big the United States was. Johannes said he found Pittsburghers very friendly, and that we were more international than he expected.

Both students commented on how different things were in the United States compared to Germany, from food to families to school. In addition to visiting Upper St. Clair, the students spent three days in Washington, DC, and four days in New York.

Ben and Johannes remarked they were surprised at how well USC students were able to converse in German, a skill our students had a chance to practice on their trip to Germany this past June. 

renowned Santa Clara Vanguard Drum & Bugle Corps, performing with them for three years, including a year when they won a DCI (Drum Corps International) world championship title. A graduate of Cleveland State University, he is currently working on his master’s in music performance at Carnegie Mellon University.

To get USC’s drum line ready for Left to right: the next level, practice and clinics Ad Ben Burns wai i Rao and started in the spring with tryouts in t to hear who made dr um line. early May. According to Mike, being Mike Blair waits for another part of a drum line is challenging both drummer to audition. physically and mentally. During tryouts, judges USC High School Panther Marching listened to each performer and determined who Band has been entertaining fans at halftime was best suited for each instrument. for years, but this season drum line coach Mike Adi Rao, a junior, said he’s learned more Blair wants more—he’s striving for perfection. from Mr. Blair in one year than all his previous “I want the drum line having fun and show- years as a percussionist. “We’ve never practiced ing intensity,” commented Blair. “They should this hard for drum line.” have a fire to their playing so everyone’s drawn “Mr. Blair is dedicated to us,” said senior Ben into them.”

Burns, one of the drum line co-captains this year.

Band instructor Frank Eisenreich said, “I He commented on the work ethic that Mr. Blair think he’s the best drum coach we’ve had in expects from his drummers. “He’ll call you out if 26 years.” He’s very demanding with the kids, you do something wrong,” said Ben, “but then, Eisenreich remarked. “He knows what he’s doing.” he’ll encourage you so you know that you can Blair’s skill comes from years of practice do it. We’ve worked at improving as a group so and hard work. At age 16, Mike joined the when we perform we can really do well.” 

Fall 2005

Internships Through Community Learning Jon Burkett, USCHS 2005 graduate

This year I was given the

chance to take community learning where I was able to go to many companies and see a day in their job. At the start of the school year I was not sure if I wanted to take this. It was kind of forced upon me to take it.

I thought that my whole senior year was going to be ruined because of one Colleen DeMarco and Jon Burkett little schedule switch. It wasn’t that little to me because everything was going to get switched around and I was going to lose many of the classes that I picked at the end of last year. In the end it was well worth it because it was a great opportunity to get a taste of the business world.

I was given the opportunity to have a four-week job shadowing experience that many kids will never be able to get. I am interested in the field of sports management, and what better place to get that experience than to work at a major league organization, the Pirates.

This was an awesome experience to be able to work with many of the top people in the Pirates’ organization. Mr. Dennis DaPra, vicepresident of PNC Park operations and facilities management, was the man that I was able to shadow for the four weeks I was there.

I worked at Sign-A-Rama, a sign company located in Robinson Township. This was a fun opportunity because I was able to see how people who own sign companies operate their businesses.

M&M Photography was the next place I shadowed. Photography is another option that I am considering after reviewing my completed vocational interest inventory. But, I was more into sports photography than still photos. It was still a great thing to see how they ran their company, and what happens after they have taken the pictures.

I went to CCAC to see how their graphics team works in a meeting and what they do to advertise for the coming summer courses.

The USC athletic department was the last sports management shadowing experience that I had. I assisted Director Ted Petersen in the office and did paper work for Cindy Storer.

I wanted to see how a printing company is run, so I shadowed Mr. Dale Blazek at his company, Slavia Printing Company. It was interesting to see how much work it is to be in the printing business and how hard it is to make everything just how the customer wants it.

The final job shadowing experience that I completed was to work in the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine office where I spent time observing Office Manager Colleen DeMarco. I helped to file and sort.

I also worked on Excel and recorded the frequency of companies that have advertised in the magazine. I had a lot of fun working in the office and seeing what her job entailed.

Thank you to everybody who helped me with my shadowing experiences!  Jon graduated from USCHS in 2005. He wrote this article to let everyone know of his wonderful experience in the Community Learning program, a program that allows high school seniors the opportunity to job shadow in a student’s field of interest. Jon plans to help his parents in a sign business start-up venture, and is considering taking classes at a local college.

Managed Services, Managed Better

Russ Phillips, Food Services Director Joe Wightkin, Support Services Director

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Upset Win Gives USC First WPSLA Title Jarred Cipriani Friday May 13, 2005, was a great

night for the USC boys’ lacrosse team.

At the end of the Western Pennsylvania Scholastic Lacrosse Association (WPSLA) championship game, number two seed USC defeated rival, and number one seed, Mt. Lebanon by a score of eight to six to become WPSLA champion! Upper St. Clair had lost to Mt. Lebanon, nine to eight, in overtime earlier in the season.

This game was significant for many reasons. It marked only the second time a non-MSLA (Midwest Scholastic Lacrosse Association) team advanced to the finals and only the first time one had won the title. This victory also sealed the Panther’s dominance over the Blue Devils in all major high school sports this past year.

Many newspapers, including the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, considered the win an upset, as USC was labeled the underdog. Statistically this is true, but not historically. Two years ago the Upper St. Clair JV lacrosse team won the championship against the Blue Devils with a score of three to two. The teams facing one another Friday night were essentially the same two squads of two years ago, and

the Panthers were hungry for another victory.

WPSLA Coach of the Year was awarded to the Panthers’ rookie coach, Bruce Atkinson.

2005 USC boys’ lacrosse team Entering a season with a brand new coach is difficult, but first team All-League selection, also had good chemistry evolved—Coach Atkinson an assist. clicked with the players, and vice versa. His Other game scorers for USC were Trevor faith in his players inspired them to rise Yealy (three goals, one assist), Michael above the pressure and perform. “Wow, Andreaggi (one goal, one assist), David what a team,” was a favorite saying of Coach Zangrilli (one goal), Brian Gorder (one Atkinson, and could be heard whether the goal), Matt Heddaeus (one goal), Craig Panthers were winning or losing.

Morgan (one goal), and Michael Sciulli USC goaltender Travis Nacey stopped (two assists).

14 of 20 shots from the Mt. Lebanon ofWith several key seniors graduating after fense. Nacey missed the first part of the the 2005 season, USC hopes to build its new season because of a broken knee, but he squad for a repeat victory in 2006. Returning healed quickly to become an instrumental players are Nacey, Barkas, Sciulli, Zangrilli, part of USC’s success. The starting Panther and Yealy. Other players ready for action defense of Matt Barkas, Brendan Surma, include midfielders Tanner Fackenthal and and Alex Kich held Mt. Lebanon’s top two Jarred Cipriani; attackman Pete McCann; scorers to only one goal. In addition to his and defensemen Kevin Gorder and Dax defensive play Matt, the team’s MVP and Lyons. 

USC Soccer–Kick-Off Classic

Friday, September 2 and Saturday, September 3 Schedule of Events

(Preliminary rounds played at Morton Soccer Complex) Girls Boys

Girls Boys

Friday, September 2 USC (home) vs. Penn Hills (visitor)–2 p.m.

Bethel Park (home) vs. Central Mountain (visitor)–2 p.m.

USC (home) vs. Linsly (visitor)–4 p.m.

Thomas Jefferson (home) vs. Penn Trafford (visitor)–4 p.m.

Saturday, September 3 Consolation Game at Morton Field–10 a.m.

Championship Game at USCHS Panther Stadium–1 p.m.

Consolation Game at Morton Field–10 a.m.

Championship Game at USCHS Panther Stadium–3 p.m.

2005 Varsity Football Schedule Friday Night Kick-Offs at 7:30 p.m.

August 26 September 2 September 9 September 16 September 23 September 30 October 7 October 14 October 21

Canon McMillan ........................................................Home Baldwin ......................................................................Away Butler .........................................................................Away Mt. Lebanon....................................... Home (Youth Night) North Allegheny .........................................................Away Bethel Park.......................................Home (Halls of Fame) North Hills........................................Home (Homecoming) Seneca Valley .............................................................Away Shaler................................................ Home (Senior Night) See page 67 for football ticket information.

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Members of the USC boys’ baseball team receive recognition during PIAA playoffs.

USCHS Spring Sports Results Wins Losses Lacrosse–Girls ..................................................14 4 Lacrosse–Boys ..................................................17 3 WPSLA champion

Track–Girls .......................................................6 Track–Boys .......................................................7

2 1

WPIAL runner up Rob Rankin PIAA second place shotput, sixth place discus

Baseball ............................................................15

10

WPIAL runner up, PIAA quarterfinals contender

Volleyball–Boys ................................................15

1

Section champion

Tennis–Boys .....................................................16 WPIAL champion, PIAA runner up

0

Deer Valley Dawn Yoder and Kevin Clark Ahh… to get away from it all!

Sometimes a few days away from everyday life can do wonders for the soul. Envision this: miles and miles of virgin forests, a crystal clear lake, and fields of beautiful bluets that resemble little puffs of turquoise cotton balls spreading from field to water. Is this, perhaps, a new vacation spot for your family? Maybe, but residents of Upper St. Clair know it as the place the sixth grade students go to learn about the environment—Deer Valley. A YMCA camp, Deer Valley is located six miles from the border of Maryland, and is about a twohour drive from Pittsburgh.

Left to right: Mary Pollard, Ashley Ames, Kelsey Hagarman, Nicky Barone, and Holly Repischak test fossil acidity.

This annual trip, known as the Earthwarden Program, recently completed its 20th year at Deer Valley. Every sixth level team goes for two and a half days. Boyce Middle School students sell wrapping paper in fifth and sixth grade to pay for the excursion. If some students are unable to sell the allotted amount of this fundraiser, work contracts are distributed to enable those students the same opportunity to “earn” their way to Deer Valley.

The teachers on the Deer Valley committee begin to plan and budget in July for these trips, which are scheduled each May. Jim Smoyer, Bernice Andrews, Kathy Hoedeman, Mark Goelz, Dawn Yoder, and Kevin Clark (the program director) meet often to discuss the needs of the program that has been recognized statewide and nationally.

There are two meetings to inform and train parent volunteers for lessons conducted

at Deer Valley. The parents (90% attend Deer Valley with their child) teach and assist with the lessons. It is truly a partnership between school and community. The teachers get to know the parents better, and the parents get the opportunity to watch their child learn firsthand, observe the teachers at Boyce in action, and meet other adults from the community. Foremost, they get to spend quality time with their child.

“The whole trip was really great—educational, fun, well organized. I loved spending time with my child away from all the usual stressors and hectic schedule,” said Cindy Ortenzo, a parent who attended Deer Valley this year. Another comment, made by Larry Witsberger, was, “Deer Valley was an excellent experience with my son and a great opportunity to enjoy and appreciate nature.”

The parents seemed to enjoy the activities and lessons as much as the students.

Doug Bishop commented, “The night walk provided a very different view of our surroundings.” Mark Schrott said, “I enjoyed many of the lessons, learned some things, and was able to detach myself from my normal daily stressful reality.”

The experience doesn’t end when the student moves on to other grades. John Schneider said, “My daughter, now in tenth grade, still reminds us of ways to improve our conservation because of the Earthwarden program.”

Last year’s sixth level students made similar remarks. Danielle Engel stated, “I absolutely loved it at Deer Valley. I really want to thank you for making learning fun for me.” Ben Herman, another Boyce graduate, commented, “The trip to Deer Valley was definitely the highlight of sixth grade.

I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.”

The Deer Valley experience is best summed up by Kelsey Novak, who said, “I was nervous to go to Deer Valley at first, but as it came closer, I was excited. Those three days went by so fast, and at the end of the trip I found myself not wanting to pack up and leave. I wish I could’ve stayed longer.” The Boyce teaching staff couldn’t agree more!

If you ever have this opportunity to accompany your child to Deer Valley, we hope you will do so. In spite of the sore feet, wet clothes, and exhausted bodies, we think it is a worthwhile experience, and so does your child. The memories you make will be treasured forever.  Fall 2005

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Paw Prints Baker Cares Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf, Baker School principal The 2004-05 school year Baker theme was “We Care.” Staff, students, and

parents focused on projects about giving.

Each month, Baker had a different theme that united the school and community. Baker students and staff researched information about the topics, created bulletin boards to display the information, and had students report on the school’s announcements, involving the entire school in the projects.

In September, Baker school-wide caring focused on the community and summer adventures. In October and November, second level students had an assembly with a politician and a mock presidential election. During the November and December holidays, students collected $3400 for Make-A-Wish, providing an entire wish for a young girl in Allegheny County.

Year 2005 started with the first level students submitting entries for the National Save the Children drawing competition.

In February, we focused on “Friends of All Ages” as our third level students interviewed

their senior family members and friends about transportation, technology, entertainment, prices, and clothing. They shared what has changed over the years. As a school, we sent Valentine’s Day cards to Friendship Village residents. During March, the PTA invited members of the CLO to Baker to perform Young Washington at an assembly.

In April, our focus was on animals.

Fourth level students collected money for the Heifer International program to help struggling families buy livestock, moving them from poverty to self reliance. In May we learned about the rainforest, and each grade level performed a rainforest song at a school-wide assembly. In addition, the students collected change in their rainforest banks to raise money to purchase and protect acres of endangered rainforest in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest.

We finished activities in June by

Darby Gallo cares about the rainforest.

recognizing helpers as our kindergarten students read facts and thank you notes about the Baker support and maintenance staff.

Baker PTA supported the “We Care” theme. They organized outreach programs in October for a Flood Relief fund drive ($1200 was raised), in March for the Washington City Mission clothing drive, and in May and June for the Operation Iraqi Children’s Supply program.

The Baker community gives in many ways. Thank you to everyone who helped with the “We Care” theme by contributing time, research, or money. Stay tuned to see how Baker accomplishes its 2005-06 theme, “We Open Our Hearts.” 

Stay Connected with Your Teen—Volunteer!

Marsha Roche, USCHS PTSO board advisor There are several excellent reasons why Upper St.

Clair High School has achieved a 100% graduation rate. First and foremost, we applaud our students who continue to excel in all facets of their education whether it’s academics, sports, the arts, school clubs and activities, or volunteer efforts. Our students are influenced positively by the dedicated teaching staff, counselors, and administrators present at the High School. They are challenged by the rigorous and varied curriculum, and are able to choose from a wide array of school-sponsored activities.

However, there is an added component to this success story that deserves accolades—the level of parent involvement.

In elementary and middle school, most parents involve themselves actively in their children’s education through volunteerism. We have all read studies that confirm a correlation exists between active parent involvement in the school and a student’s proficiency.

As your child approaches his or her high school years, the same holds true. Statistics show that when a parent is connected to their child’s education, grades and test scores are higher, attendance and graduation rates are better, and enrollment in post secondary education increases. These are great incentives to continue volunteering even though your child has reached the high school level. Our parents are doing an outstanding job in this arena, and their involvement takes shape in many forms.

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Fall 2005

Many parents volunteer their time as chaperones, serve on PTSO committees, lend a helping hand in the counseling department, attend Principal’s Advisory Committee (PAC) and PTSO meetings, cheer our kids on at athletic events, attend musical performances, write and distribute newsletters, assist with the school website—the list goes on and on! Last fall there were many opportunities to help flood victims in surrounding areas. USC parents demonstrated overwhelming support for these efforts with donations. Over 1000 High School parents subscribe to the online weekly newsletter that enables them to stay abreast of school events and announcements. All of these actions speak louder than words to our children, and the efforts are paying off.

Don’t step back just because your child is growing up. We all lead full and busy lives, so take time to evaluate your schedule and what activities you would feel most comfortable volunteering your time. In many instances, there are specific, one-time volunteer commitments that you can complete at home. Any level of involvement is valued by the USCHS community whether it’s weekly, monthly, or once during the school year.

Staying informed is a dynamic mode of active involvement.

Parents may join the PTSO online High School newsletter at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/USC_HS_2004 and receive weekly information pertinent to USCHS. If you have a soon-to-be high school student, get connected in advance and explore the many opportunities for participation in your adolescent’s education. 

Art Auction Benefits Life Skills Programs Bidding opened at 7 p.m., with auctioneer Raymond Patterson donating his time and expertise. Home Depot in Bethel Park donated 200 paint stirrers to help make bidding paddles.

Thanks to the generosity of the parents, faculty, students, and community members who attended the art auction, the Life Skills Support program at the High School raised $1800!

Jane Dodd picks up her bidding paddle.

Number 16 hopes for a winning bid!

Most of us wouldn’t make it to Christie’s

for an art auction, but if you wanted to experience that exciting atmosphere, you could have found it at Upper St. Clair High School on Monday, May 2.

Students from the High School donated their art to benefit the Life Skills Support program. The doors of the High School LGI room opened at 5:30 p.m. for a preview of the paintings, drawings, pottery, jewelry, and other hand crafted items.

Viewing the items available for bid

Life skills teacher Michelle Zirngibl, who hopes the art auction will become an annual event, explained that the students in the Life Skills program at the High School participate in many comprehensive activities which apply to their learning, but these activities far exceed what is expected through a public school system. Fundraisers like the art auction and King’s Celebrity Night help pay for these additional activities. 

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Did You Know?

Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?

Did You Know? Did you Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?

Did You Know? Did you Know? Did You Know? Did You Know?

Upper St. Clair High School Showcased The Council of Chief State School Officers and the International Center for Leadership in Education have selected Upper St. Clair High School as one of the nation’s most successful high schools.

At the 13th annual Model Schools Conference, Upper St. Clair High School was showcased and presented a case study to over 4500 attending educators. High schools were chosen following an extensive search for schools that represent innovative thinking and best practices. The conference was held in Nashville, Tennessee, from June 26–29.

nal Malcolm Baldridge Natio nt me int po Quality Award Ap High School Principal er Dr. Tim oth y Ste inh au ve has been invited to ser as a member on the 2005 Board of Examiners for the Malcolm Baldridge National S. Quality Award. The U. for is responsible Department of Commerce nal Institute of tio Na the the award through This prestigious Standards and Technology. s of performance award promotes awarenes gly important eleexcellence as an increasin as well as sharing ment in competitiveness, sful performance information about succes ts derived from strategies and the benefi using these strategies.

Beating the Odds Fort Couch students and staff headed to Heinz Field on May 10 for a fun and exciting day at the “Beating the Odds” program. The Beating the Odds Foundation helps America’s youth become winners in life, despite the challenges, setbacks, or obstacles they face in today’s world. Students listened to the inspirational stories of Rocky Bleier, former Steeler; Bethany Hamilton, surfer and shark attack survivor; Adam Talliaferro, Penn State football player; Curt Brinkman, Paralympics medal winner; and Bob “Mr. Inspiration” Wieland, a Vietnam War survivor. They also enjoyed music by Just 3, Angel Faith, and NBA star Thurl Bailey.

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Fort Couch Middle School Rec eives Honor Fort Cou ch Mid dle Sch ool has bee n nam ed as a Firs t Am end men t Affiliate School by the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Dev elopment (ASCD) and the First Amendmen t Center (FAC). The First Amendmen t Schools Network supports efforts to teac h and model the principles of dem ocratic freedom. Those principles are dem ocratic freedom, rights and respons ibilities, community engagement, and acti ve citizenship.

Both the ASCD and the FAC repo rted being “particularly impressed with Fort Couch’s communication arts curriculum.”

Dr. Valerie Whitecap teaches commu nication arts at Fort Couch. The seve nth grade curriculum includes instruc tion on public speaking and con structive argument. Constructive argumen t teaches students how to express and defend a position without verbal and non verbal aggression. The eighth grad e curriculum provides the opportunity for students to take a position on a con troversial topic, research the topic, add approp riate elements of persuasion and reas oning, create a PowerPoint® presentation for a visual aide, and present the position in the form of a persuasive speech.

Students also used a mini-course in media literacy to discuss the imp ortance of the First Amendment as it rela ted to their daily lives, since the free sharing of opinion is a bedrock principle of U.S. democracy.

USC Students Place Near the Top in the Japan Bowl Five Upper St. Clair High School students competed against other regional high school students in the Japan Bowl this past February.

The Japan Bowl is a competition developed by the Japan-America Society of Washington, Inc. to test the ability of high school students throughout the country who are studying Japanese language and culture. The competition required a broad knowledge of Japanese geography, culture, traditions, and language.

Second level students, Benjamin Blanco and Dylan O’Brien won third place in their division. Aryn Long, Anthony Scorsone, and Theresa Kelly, representing the third level Japanese program, won second place.

(USCHS foreign Left to right: Junko Kapples co, Dylan O’Brien, Blan in jam Ben , language teacher) principal) CHS (US uer nha Dr. Tim Stei

Fall 2005

Left to right: Ar yn Long, Anthon y Scorsone, Theresa Kelly

USC Teachers Recognized Five of the District’s teachers were identified as among the best in the region by the Teacher Excellence Center. Jean Austin, Nicholas Beck, Pamela Dillie, Carol Logan, and Barbara Starr were among 110 teacher honorees at the Center’s annual banquet, held this year at the Carnegie Music Hall on April 28. Congratulations! 

Fourth Level Science Roundup Ginny Stempkowski High School science students facilitated the various experiment stations at which mixed groups from the different elementary schools worked together. The children also enjoyed science-centered entertainment while they ate lunch. Science Roundup was a fantastic learning experience and a great way for the students to meet future Boyce Middle School classmates! 

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Left to right: Joseph Campagna and Shaokang Yuan have fun seeing if their huff puff mobile works.

On April 19, 20, and 21 fourth level

students from the District’s three elementary schools traveled to the High School for an entire day of hands-on science fun at the District’s annual Science Roundup. Sponsored by the PTAs from Baker, Eisenhower, and Streams schools, the Roundup provided students the opportunity to participate in a variety of scientific experiments, including Egg Drop, Huff Puff Mobile, and Tower of Pasta.

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Left to right: High School student Jenna Cook helps Shreeyash Tripathi, Jessica Reilly, and Lauren Kelly get ready for the egg drop.

Art Exhibit at High School

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The High School rifle range was

turned into an art gallery the week of April 19 through the 22 as the IB art students displayed their creative work. An IB assessor was scheduled to review the work, but the exhibit was also open to the public.

Art teacher Susan Watts said each student developed a theme over one or two years, working in media of their choice.

The 22 students (all female this year) each decorated a cast of a torso. The torsos were displayed in the hall before entering the exhibit area. Artwork covered a wide range of media, including textiles, ceramics, and wall hangings. 

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Elysia Tonti displays her torso creation.

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Silk Flowers & Dried Designs ceramics

textiles

wall hangings

Fall 2005

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School District Notices Annual Notices to Parents of Children Who Reside in the Upper St. Clair School District Notification of Rights for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights include: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to their child’s building principal or Supervisor of Pupil Services, Ms. Eloise Stoehr, Upper St. Clair School District, at the address listed on page 66, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The building principal or Supervisor of Pupil Services will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate.

Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write their child’s building principal or the Supervisor of Pupil Services, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.

Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when the school is notified of the request for a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate education interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); members of the School Board as a whole; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (e.g. attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the school official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility.

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4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school system to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Disclosure of Personal Information FERPA requires that the Upper St. Clair School District (District), with certain exceptions, obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education record.

However, the District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include the annual yearbook, honor roll or other recognition lists, graduation programs, sports activity sheets, a playbill showing your student’s role in a drama production and the like.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws required local education agencies (LEA) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories (names, addresses, and telephone listings) unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want the District to disclose directory information without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing. The parent or eligible student may refuse to permit the designation of any or all of these categories, with respect to that student, by notifying the child’s building principal within 30 days of the publication of this notice.

Fall 2005

The following information is designated as directory information: Directory Information Categories • Student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth.

• Awards won and offices held.

• Major areas of study.

• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports.

• Post-high school endeavors.

• Recognition of achievements in academic and non-academic areas.

• Recognition of graduating seniors.

• Weight and height of athletes.

Confidentiality All information gathered about your child is subject to the confidentiality provisions contained in federal and state law. The District has policies and procedures in effect governing the collection, maintenance, destruction, and disclosure to third parties of this information.

For information about these policies and procedures, as well as rights of confidentiality and access to educational records, you may contact in writing your child’s building principal or the Supervisor of Pupil Services.

Annual Notice To Parents Regarding School Records School records are an inherent part of a student’s formal education in the public school setting. They are used to collect, maintain, and disseminate pertinent information. The District has adopted a policy and administrative regulations in accordance with both the regulations of the State Board of Education on Pupil Records, adopted July 12, 1974, amended July 15, 1977, and the FERPA. Parents and eligible students (students who have reached the age of 18 or are emancipated minors) are accorded the following rights: 1. To inspect, review, and be given a copy of school records.

2. To obtain a copy of the District’s policy and regulations regarding the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of school records upon written request to: Supervisor of School Guidance Counseling or Supervisor of Pupil Services–addresses listed on page 66.

3. To file complaints with the FERPA Office.

(See FERPA compliance address listed above.)

4. To be informed of the transfer of records to officials of another school or school system upon notification of the student’s enrollment.

5. To challenge the contents of the records.

6. To refuse individual consent where it is required for release of information from the record.

7. To be informed of the data collected and maintained by representational consent.

If you wish to examine school records, you may make arrangements to do so by contacting the principal or counselor at the school your child attends.

Planned Program of Standardized Testing The planned program of standardized testing by the District is collected and maintained by representational consent and is shown below.

The results of these tests, as well as the results of aptitude and achievement tests taken by the individual student on a voluntary basis and required for admission into post-secondary education institutions, are maintained and made a part of the record. Should you wish to examine the record, you may arrange to do so by making an appointment with your child’s principal or counselor. For specific information regarding matters pertaining to school records, parents or eligible students may contact the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled.

Test Grade Preschool screening Preschool Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Otis-Lennon School Ability Grade 1 Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 2 Terra Nova CTBS Battery/ Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 4 Terra Nova Multiple Assessments Test of Cognitive Skills Grade 7 Academic and Career Assessment Inventory (PLAN) Grade 10

Date of Administration Prior to Entrance March/April March/April March/April March/April October

In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Education requires that all school districts participate in the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). Listed below is the schedule for the administration of the PSSA for the 2004-05 school year.

PSSA Area of Assessment Math, Reading, Writing Retest

Grade

Date of Administration

Grade 12

Oct. 25-Nov. 5, 2005

Writing

Grade 5, 8, 11

February 3-4, 2006

Math and Reading

Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11

March 20-31, 2006

Programs for Eligible or Protected Handicapped or Gifted Students In compliance with the state and federal law, notice is hereby given by the District that it conducts ongoing identification activities as a part of its school program for the purpose of identifying disabled students who may be in need of special education and related services (eligible students). Individualized services and programs are available for children who are determined to need specially designed instruction due to the following conditions: autism; blindness or visual impairment; deafness or hearing impairment; deafness and blindness; emotional disturbance; mental retardation; multiple disabilities; orthopedic impairment; other health impairments; specific learning disability; speech and language impairment; and traumatic brain injury.

If you believe that your school-age child may be in need of special education services or related programs, or your young child (age three to school-age) may be in need of early intervention, screening, and evaluation processes designed to assess the needs of the child and his/her eligibility are available to you at no cost, upon written request. You may request screening and evaluation at any time, whether or not your child is enrolled in the District’s public school program. Requests for evaluation and screening are to be made in writing to your child’s principal or Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Services, at the address listed on page 66.

In compliance with state and federal law, the District will provide to each protected handicapped student without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aides, services, or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected handicapped student, the child must be school age with a

physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. These services and protections for “protected handicapped students” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in special education programs.

In compliance with state law, the District provides services designed to meet the unique needs of gifted students. The District identifies “gifted” students on a case-by-case basis based on state law and District procedures. Such students may possess superior IQ scores and meet multiple criteria indicating gifted ability. If your child is believed to be in need of such services, you will be notified of evaluation procedures. If you believe your school-age child may qualify for gifted education services, you may contact in writing your child’s principal or Eloise Stoehr at any time to request determination of eligibility. Please note that entitlement to gifted services includes only those rights provided for by Pennsylvania law.

For further information on the rights of parents and children, provision of services, evaluation and screening (including purpose, time, and location), and rights to due process procedures, contact in writing to your child’s principal, Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Services, or Dr. Sharon Suritsky, Supervisor of Special Education at the addresses listed on page 66.

Child Identification Activities The District provides a free appropriate public education to exceptional students. To be eligible, the student must be of school age, in need of specially designed instruction and meet eligibility criteria for mentally gifted and/or one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities as defined by Pennsylvania state standards: autism; blindness or visual impairment; deafness or hearing impairment; deafness and blindness; emotional disturbance; mental retardation; multiple disabilities; orthopedic impairment; other health impairments; specific learning disability; speech and language impairment; and traumatic brain injury.

The District makes use of the following procedures for locating, identifying, and evaluating needs of school-aged students requiring special programs or services.

As prescribed by Section 1402 of the School Code, the District routinely conducts screenings of a child’s hearing acuity, visual acuity, and speech and language ability. Gross motor and fine motor skills, academic skills, and social/emotional skills are assessed by classroom teachers on an on-going basis. Specified needs from all of these screening sources are noted in the student’s records. Such school records are open and available to parents. Information from the records is released to other persons or agencies only with appropriate authorization, which involves written permission by parents. Parents with concerns regarding their child may contact the school principal at any time to request screening or evaluation of their child. Communication with parents and exceptional students shall be in English or the native language of the parents.

Screening information will be used by the student support team within the student’s school to meet his/her specific needs or to document the need for further evaluation. If it is determined that a child needs additional services, the student support team will make recommendations for adjustments relative to such things as the child’s learning style, behavior, physical inabilities, and speech problems to assist the student in reaching appropriate gains based on his/her rate of learning.

Multidisciplinary evaluations of students thought to be exceptional can be initiated by parents/guardians or school personnel. Parents/guardians are part of the multidisciplinary team (MDT). Permission of the parent/ guardian is needed to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation.

Continued on page 66 Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

65

School District Notices Continued from page 65

The purpose of a multidisciplinary evaluation is to develop conclusions and recommendations regarding eligibility and programming appropriate for the student. Multidisciplinary evaluations use multiple sources of information in assessing a student, such as District-wide testing results, input from school personnel, team interventions, classroom observation, parent input, and formal educational and psychological testing. After the evaluations are completed, an evaluation report is compiled and includes specific recommendations for the types of interventions necessary to deal with the student’s needs.

Parents are then invited to participate in a meeting where the results of the evaluation are discussed. If the child is determined to be exceptional and in need of specially designed instruction, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed. The extent of special education services and the location of the delivery of these services are determined by the IEP team and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age, and level of intensity of the specified intervention. The District also provides related services that are necessary for an exceptional student to benefit from special education.

When the IEP is complete, the parents are presented with a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) with which they may agree or disagree. If parents disagree with the program being recommended, the issue may be taken to mediation or a due process hearing.

The District provides a continuum of options ranging from supportive intervention in the regular classroom to supplemental intervention in the regular class or in a resource room, to a part time or full time special education class in or outside the regular school. Students receive services in the least restrictive environment as determined by the IEP team. The District provides learning support for students whose primary identified need is academic support.

Life skills support is provided for students whose focus is on independent living skills.

Additionally, the District provides hearing support, speech/language support, emotional support, vision support, and physical support to meet students’ individual needs. Students who are mentally gifted receive gifted support.

Based upon students’ individual needs, the District provides extended school year services, adaptive physical education for students who cannot benefit from regular physical education with modifications, behavior management programs for students whose behavior interferes with learning, vocational assessment, assistive devices, and enrichment/advancement.

Information about parental rights, mediation or due process procedures, special education services, programs offered by the District, and the District’s Educational Records policy is available upon request from the student’s school principal.

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Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or emancipated minors (eligible students) certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.

These include the right to: • Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (protected information survey) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED): 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parents.

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family.

3. Sexual behavior or attitudes.

4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships.

6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers.

7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.

8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of: 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding.

2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law.

3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or to otherwise distribute the information to others.

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use: 1. Protected information surveys of students.

2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.

3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

The District will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.

The District will notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The District will notify parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys (listed below) and be provided with an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement: • Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution.

• Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED. • Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination, or screening as described above.

Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Fall 2005

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605 Correspondence addresses referenced in this article Dr. Sharon Suritsky Ms. Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Special Education Supervisor of Pupil Services Upper St. Clair School District Upper St. Clair School District 1820 McLaughlin Run Road 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Dr. William Rullo Supervisor of High School Guidance Counseling Upper St. Clair High School 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

BMI Screening New This Fall

Upper St. Clair Schools and Township Join Forces Continued from page 53

When students in the District return

to school this fall, they will continue to receive the height and weight screenings done by each building’s school nurse, but additional data will be used to track Body Mass Index (BMI) as well.

While BMI, which measures a person’s weight in relation to his height, has some limits, information from The National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that it is a reliable indicator of total body fat.

In 2004, Pennsylvania Health Department announced the revised screening procedures. For the 2005-06 school year, mandatory BMI charting is required for grades K-4.

According to Ellie Stoehr, the District’s Supervisor of Pupil Personnel Services, BMI will be tracked for all students in grades K-12.

Parents will receive a letter through the mail indicating their child’s BMI, along with information explaining what the numbers mean.

If a child’s BMI is outside of the designated healthy range, parents will be asked to follow up with their child’s physician. 

Upper St. Clair School District Department of Athletics

The third and fourth sessions focused on the development of concrete recommendations for the District, Township, and overall community, particularly parents. Several themes emerged through the discussions: • The need for increased and earlier drug and alcohol education in our schools.

• The importance of parental commitment to prevent the use of alcohol at any youth party in the community.

• The creation of more appropriate disciplinary sanctions by the School District for offenders, including Saturday morning detentions that focus on alcohol and drug education for both students and parents.

• The support of our police in enforcement of the laws related to illegal use of alcohol or illicit drugs by youth, especially on weekends and school vacations.

• The need for ongoing community dialogue and follow-up actions related to the issue.

Feedback from the nearly 200 community participants at the discussions indicated a high level of support for this joint District and Township endeavor. People viewed the forums as an example of the civic-minded spirit of Upper St. Clair, a community that is committed to keeping our children even safer in the future.  2005-06 School Calendar August 31–First Day for Students September 5–No School (Labor Day) October 10–Teacher Inservice October 21–Half Day Early Dismissal for Students (Teachers’ Professional Development) November 7-8–Teacher Inservice November 24-25–No School (Thanksgiving Recess) December 23-January 2–No School (Winter Recess) January 16–Teacher Inservice January 30–Teacher Inservice February 20–Teacher Inservice March 3–Half Day Early Dismissal for Students (Teachers’ Professional Development) April 10-14–No School (Spring Recess) April 17–Teacher Inservice May 29–No School (Memorial Day) June 14–Last Day for Students (Early Dismissal) June 14-15–Possible Snow Make-Up Days June 19–Kennywood Day

2005-2006 • PANTHER PASS REGISTRATION • Name ___________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________________________________

Good for all paid sporting events in the 2005-06 school year

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Upper St. Clair High School Athletic Department

ADULT PASS: $60 one-time fee for all events

RETURN TO: Upper St. Clair High School Athletic Department 1825 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Add $5 for Reserved Football Seats STUDENT PASS: $30 Contact Cindy Storer at the USC High School Athletic Office at 412-833-1600, extension 2260, for details.

Fall 2005

QUANTITY/AMT. Annual Adult Pass add: Football Reserved Seat Reserved Seat-Football Only Pass Annual Student Pass

_________ _________ _________ _________

TOTAL:

_________

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

$60 $5 $35 $30

67

Felipe D’Andéa, Brina Reddecliff, Carolina D’Andéa, and Kristin Pekot wish you a happy autumn!

QW

Pennsylvania School Immunization Requirements Children in all grades (K-12) who started school before 1997 need the following vaccines: • 3 doses of tetanus* • 2 doses of measles** • 3 doses of diphtheria* • 1 dose of mumps** • 3 doses of polio • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)**

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Children entering school (at K or grade 1), in 2005-06 need the following vaccines: • 4 doses of tetanus* (1 dose on or after the fourth birthday) • 3 doses of polio • 4 doses of diphtheria* (1 dose on or after the fourth birthday) • 2 doses of measles** • 1 dose of mumps** • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)** • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 1 dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine or history of the disease Children entering grade 7 in 2005-06 need the following vaccines: • 3 doses of tetanus* • 1 dose of mumps** • 3 doses of diphtheria* • 1 dose of rubella (German measles)** • 3 doses of polio • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 2 doses of measles** • Age appropriate dose(s) of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine or history of the disease * Usually given as DTP or DTaP or DT or Td ** Usually given as MMR Families are encouraged to obtain the needed immunizations from their physicians. However, the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) does offer the required vaccines. To obtain information about clinic locations and times, interested persons should contact the ACHD Infectious Diseases Program at 412-578-8060.

Students must provide evidence of immunization in order to attend school. These requirements allow for exemptions for medical reasons and religious beliefs. Parents must provide written documentation of exemptions to the District. If your child is exempt from immunizations, he or she may be removed from school during an outbreak.

The Upper St. Clair Panther Pride Throw A Warm Memento One hundred percent pre-washed cotton, this fully-fringed 50" by 65" throw, woven in natural, black, and red, is available for only $45. Proceeds benefit the USC PTA Council Special Projects Scholarship Fund. Order yours today by completing and mailing the form along with payment to: Amy Billerbeck, 2583 Rossmoor Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 (Questions? Call 412-833-2712.)

Quantity______ @ $45 each = Total $_______ enclosed Name: _______________________________________ Address: _____________________________________ City: ________________________________________ State, ZIP: ____________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ Method of Payment: ___Cash

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

___Check (payable to USC PTA Council)

Around the Township

Double Treat for 1830 Log House

Visitors to the 1830 Log House on Community Day 2005 were in

for a double log house treat. Not only was the Log House open for tours that day, but inside was a model log house built by Streams third level student Alex Bowman.

Alex’s model, built entirely of edible materials—pretzel rods for logs, icing for chinking, marshmallows for the chimney stones—won second best USC-themed dessert in the Community Day 2005 Coldwell Banker Bake Off contest.

The delectable little model is now history itself, having been eaten by Alex’s family after the judging. But, you can still get information on the 1830 Log House Association and its history by calling Kim Guzzi, president, at 412-851-0570 or at www.twp.org/otherorg/loghouse.html. 

Alex Bowman (left) with Anne Knoell, treasurer and founding member of the 1830 Log House Association

USC Sweeps Home Basketball Tournament

m USC fifth grade tea Guire, row: A.J. Mc Left to right, front an Ritchey, Michael Shane McMurtry, Se Stephan, Jesse Poljak; ron Worthy, ball boy Aa Conn, Austin Stephan, f g, back row: coach Jef Conwell, Derik Youn Jack Elliott, Dakota Brent Semachko; ch coa t an ist ass : Jack Schwaba missing from photo

The Upper St. Clair fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grade Travel A boys basketball teams were all winners in the USC basketball tournament held this past March.

Pictured are the teams being recognized for their first place finishes.

USC seventh grade team x Park; id Steen, Jeremy David, Ale n Seigel; Left to right, front row: Dav or, Joh Gab y Gar , son ard Rich Ben middle row: Jordan Albert, er, Tyler Findle, back row: coach Tom Gallagh n Beck Brett McCormick, Christia

USC sixth grade tea m Left to right, front row: Ste Connor Scott, Steph ve Limberiou, en Krolczyk, Matt Doman, Brian Griffith, Chris Coldi middle row: Garre tz; tt Del Re Matt Fraudin, Matt , Harris Beck, Ga rbi n; back row: assistant coaches Joe Krolczyk, Russ Dan Garbin, De l Re; missing from photo : coach Jody Zajicek

USC eighth grade team Left to right, front row: Stev Brian Swaney, Christian Wh en Kyle, Christian Shea, Michael Shogry, eele Dan Colussy, Steve Lias, Ree r; back row: coach Dan Conn, Eric Elliott, d Apfelbaum, Ben Siegfrie d, coach Jeff Conn; missing from photo: coach Dave Holzworth Fall 2005 UPPER UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 6969 Fall 2005 ST. CLAIR TODAY

Town Hall South 37th Lecture Series Starts in October

Wolf Blitzer October 11, 2005

Gail Collins November 1, 2005

For 37 successful seasons a unique

lecture and luncheon series, Town Hall South, has flourished in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. This coming 2005-06 season will stimulate your thinking and expand your horizons as you hear from outstanding speakers you’ve seen on TV and read in books, national papers, and magazines on topics affecting us all—from China to the Middle East to reliving the Lewis and Clark journey through photographs.

This five-lecture series brings diverse speakers with worldwide reputations to the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre for an hour lecture followed by an optional luncheon at St. Clair Country Club, concluding with a question and answer session with the celebrity. Last year’s Town Hall South series sold out prior to the opening lecture.

The series begins with Wolf Blitzer speaking on October 11, 2005. Anchor of CNN’s nightly newscast and daily writer for CNN.com, Mr. Blitzer hosts Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer, seen in 212 countries. He is considered one of the most insightful journalists in America today with an international breadth of experience few in his field can match. He has reported on a wide range of major breaking stories around the world for over two decades. After the 9-11 terrorist attacks, Mr. Blitzer began hosting a special weeknight report looking at the political side of the war on terrorism and probing the multiple aspects of terrorism and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Mr. Blitzer joined CNN in 1990 as military affairs correspondent at the Pentagon and served as senior White House correspondent during the Clinton presidency.

He was a former Washington correspondent for The Jerusalem Post and draws on his unique international experience when discussing the issues facing Washington 70

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Sam Abell December 6, 2005

David Lampton February 7, 2006

and the world today with the struggle for peace in the Middle East.

Mr. Blitzer is the author of two books, Between Washington and Jerusalem: A Reporter’s Notebook and Territory of Lies, which was named one of the most notable books of the year by The New York Times.

In addition, he has written articles for numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Los Angeles Times.

Wolf resides in Washington, D.C. November 1, 2005, will feature Gail Collins, a member of The New York Times editorial board covering politics and columnist on the op-ed page. In addition to her position as editorial page editor of The New York Times, she is the author of 32 books, including Scorpion Tongues; Gossip Celebrity, and American Politics; and America’s Women: Four Hundred Years of Dolls, Drudges, Helpmates, and Heroines.

Spanning women through vivid characters and moving stories from the early colonies in 1587 to feminism of the 70s, she shows how women lived, what they cared about, and how they not only survived, but thrived. She wrote The Millennium Book, with her husband, Dan Collins.

Ms. Collins steered one of the most influential editorial pages in the nation through the 9-11 terrorist attacks and the war in Iraq. Collins took her post as the editorial page editor in the summer of 2001 after working as both a bi-weekly columnist and a member of the Times’ editorial board. During her career in journalism, Collins has written for both New York Newsday and The New York Daily News.

She addresses the role of newspapers, specifically editors, in separating opinion from objectivity, especially in an age of fast Internet news and 24-hour cable network coverage.

Fall 2005

Jon Meacham March 7, 2006

Ms. Collins earned a BA in journalism from Marquette University, and an MA in government from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She also studied economic journalism at Columbia University.

Sam Abell will be the featured speaker on December 6, 2005. Mr. Abell is a contributing photographer-in-residence of National Geographic and has worked for the Society since 1970. He has photographed more than 20 articles on cultural and wilderness subjects. He both lectures on, and exhibits, his photography throughout the world with topics ranging from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to Japan’s Imperial Palace. His work is celebrated for both its artistic and poetic quality and has ranged from such varied topics as Leo Tolstoy to the Civil War. Mr. Abell has published nine books, among them his collaboration with historian Stephen Ambrose on Lewis & Clark: Voyage of Discovery and The Mississippi: River of History. A book of his best personal and professional work, Sam Abell: The Photographic Life, was published in 2002. It is not only a documentation of his adventurous career traveling the world for National Geographic, but also a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey through his life. A native of Ohio, Mr. Abell learned photography from his father, a teacher and freelance photographer, and studied art in Kentucky. He currently lives in Virginia.

February 7, 2006, will present David Lampton, expert on East Asia and China and director of Chinese studies at The Nixon Center, and professor at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. He previously was president of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations in New York City,

a non-profit dedicated to enhancing mu- and diplomatic levels. Mr. Meacham is a tual understanding between the people of contributing editor for The Washington the U.S., China’s mainland, Taiwan, and Monthly and has written for The New York Hong Kong.

Times Book Review and The Los Angeles Mr. Lampton has written numerous Times Book Review. Mr. Meacham appears books and articles on Chinese domestic on such programs as The Charlie Rose and foreign affairs and has appeared on Show, The Today Show, The O’Reilly Factor the MacNeil/Lehrer Newshour, This Week and Hardball. He was born and raised in with David Brinkley, NBC’s Today Show, Tennessee and now lives in New York City ABC Evening News with Peter Jennings, and with his wife and son.

CNN, among others. Recently he authored This premier Town Hall South series Same Bed, Different Dreams: Managing purpose is twofold: promoting outstanding U.S.-China Relaspeakers and comtions, 1989-2000, munity education This premier and edited The as well as supporting Town Hall South series Making of Chinese community causes purpose is twofold: Foreign and Secuthrough its philrity Policy in the promoting outstanding speakers anthropic gifts.

Age of Reform, Town Hall South and community education 1978-2000. He has returned over as well as supporting received his Ph.D. $371,000 to local community causes and undergraduphilanthropies since through its philanthropic gifts. ate degrees from its inception. The seStanford and has ries was established lived in China, as part of the OutTaiwan, and Hong Kong. Mr. Lampton is reach Mission of Westminster Presbyterian married and has two grown children.

Church. The impressive list of past speakThe season concludes on March 7, ers include David Baldacci, Ann Compton, 2006, with Jon Meacham, who became Art Buchwald, David Brinkley, Charles managing editor of Newsweek at the age Kurwalt, William Buckley, Beverly Sills, of 29, and oversees politics, international F. Lee Bailey, Margaret Mead, David affairs, and breaking news. In 2004, under McCullough, and Jeff Greenfield. his guidance, Newsweek won the National Memberships are only sold as a series Magazine Award for General Excellence. for $95. (Purchase of luncheon tickets is Mr. Meacham has been called “one of optional). Lectures are on Tuesdays and the most influential editors in the news begin at 10 a.m. at the USC High School magazine business” by The New York Theatre. Brochures are available in the Times and has written cover stories on Westminster Church Gallery. The series guns in America, the priest scandal, faith sold out last year; subscribers should and history, race in the new millennium, respond promptly.  and Ronald Reagan and how this “American Dreamer,” a popular yet controversial For additional information, contact Martha president, played the role of a lifetime.

Brown at 412-833-8503 or Barb Livingston Mr. Meacham has received national ac- at 412-835-7579. claim with his best-selling book, Franklin and Winston: An Intimate Portrait of an Epic Friendship, which explores the relationship of the two leaders on personal, political,

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Farm Market

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Monday — Saturday 9 am — 7 pm

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(412) 221-5525 Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

71

Reaching Out to Southwest Florida Laura Elliott

All smiles over a new friend

It all began with a family trip to

Naples, Florida—sunshine, beautiful beaches, fancy restaurants, and great shopping. How lucky southwest Floridians are! Everyone around here must have everything they could ever want.

I learned differently one night when my family was having dinner with a friend who told us about a very different place, a mere 30 miles from Naples. He invited us to visit the town of Immokalee, which means “my home” in the Seminole language.

Home to about 25,000 people, these are not the folks who bask on Naples beaches, dine in the fine restaurants, or shop in expensive stores. These near-neighbors of Naples live in conditions similar to those in some Third World countries. With a population made up mainly of Hispanics, African-Americans, and Haitians, it is a community of hard working people. Most of these farm workers, many of them migrant, work in orange groves and tomato fields, striving under very difficult conditions to make life better for themselves and their children.

In Immokalee, 50% of the people live below the federal poverty guidelines, and only about 35% of the children who start school graduate from high school. Eighty percent of the families speak a language other than English.

We wanted to see for ourselves, so we planned a trip to visit the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee. This is a nondenominational center located in the heart of town. It offers a soup kitchen seven days a week, a shower program for those who live without bathing facilities, and a clothing and supply shop where people can get clothing and other simple household goods. The Guadalupe Center also sponsors an adult education program to help adults learn English so they can get better jobs, and a childcare facility open to year-round caring for 145 children. There is a long waiting list for childcare, and the center is currently raising funds to expand its facilities.

What an eye opener; there is so much that needs to be done in Immokalee! What

Baker School Girl Scout Troop #348 volunteered their time to make blankets.

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Fall 2005

Distribution of Back-to-School-Basics packages

could my family and I do to help? There are many volunteers who live a lot closer than I do, but I really wanted to do something.

The children in the childcare and after-school program came to mind at once—beautiful and very sweet. I thought about how we could help from Pittsburgh and came up with the “Back-to-SchoolBasics” program. With the help of family and friends, I hoped to make 150 gift packages for the childcare and early elementary school children.

Each package would contain a bright fleece blanket, a stuffed animal, a book, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and a pamphlet with some tips for parents called “Helping Your Child Succeed in School” written in Spanish and English. This was the start of the Back-to-School-Basics project. It seemed like a good idea, but I knew it would cost a lot of money and require a lot of work. I could not do it alone.

What to do first? I made a sample blanket and began showing it around Upper St. Clair. My family and many of my friends were willing to help. The generous response was wonderful! Next, I wrote a letter asking businesses and individuals in the Pittsburgh and the South Hills areas to contribute to the project, as each of the bags would cost about $20. When they, too, came through like champs, I had raised enough to pay for all of the supplies.

We were in business! I now needed lots of manpower to shop for supplies, make blankets, and assemble the packages. It took 125 volunteers hundreds of hours to prepare the bags. Students from Baker Elementary School, Fort Couch Middle School, and Upper St. Clair High School pitched in to help. So did some Girl Scout troops, book groups, and church groups, as well as friends and relatives in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Florida.

I’ve visited Immokalee several times this past year and have personally delivered 150 packages to the children of Immokalee and a check for $1000 to the Guadalupe Center. I only accomplished this because of the generosity and great support of the people of Upper St. Clair and the surrounding Pittsburgh area.

The reaction from the Immokalee children has been great. They are thrilled with the stuffed animals, and their teachers report that they wrap up in their new blankets even on the hottest days of the year. They are excited to take the new items home to share with their families.

It is also a good opportunity to show the children and their parents that people they have never met care about them and want to support them in their struggle towards a better life.

Not only is this project a big hit with the children and their parents, but it has helped raise an awareness in our community of the needs of the people in Immokalee, and for this I want to thank the many volunteers and supporters who made this project possible.

I hope that anyone from our area who has a chance to visit Naples, will also take the time to visit Immokalee, too. You’ll be glad you did!  For further information on the Guadalupe Center of Immokalee, or to make a donation, please contact Laura Elliott at 412-835-5113.

Laura Elliott is a senior at Upper St. Clair High School.

fe harmon ad film pick up Summer 2005 page79

Laura Elliott delivers packages to children of Immokalee.

Happy first graders wrap up in their new blankets.

WESTMINSTER WELCOMES KIDS OF ALL AGES TO BE “Wild About God”

Guadalupe Center of Immokalee, Florida

Soup kitchen at Guadalupe Center

Eric Elliott, Christian Shea, and Danny McCune help with the project.

Worship Service Times - Traditional at 8:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Contemporary Service 9:30 a.m. in the WROC (Westminster Recreational Outreach Center).

Activities include Classes...Sunday School for Children, Youth and Adults...The Bridge...Mission to Haiti, Malawi and India...Youth Crossfire and Crossroads...Children’s Choirs...Labyrinth Walk...Christian Formation Seminars...Nursery School...Westminster Child Development Center...

Children’s Day In...Wednesday WOW Dinners...Retired Men’s Luncheon...

Counseling Center...Stephen Ministers...Handbell Choir...Local Missions...

Fishers of Men.net...Bible Study WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2040 Washington Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Call 412-835-6630 or visit www.westminster-church.org Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

73

Cultural

Corner

Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra

Pittsburgh Symphony Pops

Announces Its Saturday Evening 2005-06 Season

Announces Its 2005-06 Season

October 29, 2005

Opening Night— Celebrating America’s Finest Composers

December 17, 2005

Holiday Presentations

February 26, 2006

A Festive Evening of Music, featuring the winners of the PCO/PMTA Young Artist competition

April 8, 2006

Heroic Music

May 13, 2006

The Romantic Vision

Under the direction of Bruce Lauffer, music director, the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra has been making music in the South Hills for 46 years.

Many Upper St. Clair residents are members of the PCO. Place and Time: All concerts are presented at the Upper St. Clair High School Theatre. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket price: Adults–$10, Seniors–$7, Students–free Season Subscription: Five concerts for the price of four: Adults–$40, Seniors–$28, Students–free Information: View the PCO’s website at www.artsnet.org/pco or call 412-278-2326 for more information. 

Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Jean Gedeon, Artistic Director

Official School of the Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company

Ballet • Pointe • Pre-School Dance • Modern Pas de Deux • Tap • Jazz • Musical Theater

• Classes begin September 7, 2005 • Classes As Low As $30/Month • Professional Instruction Toddler to Adult • VISA, MC, Discover & AMEX Accepted • High School Early Dismissal Program • Internationally Renowned Faculty • Positive Nurturing Environment • New Location, Fully Equipped A/C Studios

Call for a free brochure

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3000 Industrial Blvd., Bethel Park, PA 15102 (Less than 5 minutes from USC, just off South Park Road)

Visit our website at 74

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

PYB Performing “ Who Cares? ” Choreography by George Balanchine©,The George Balanchine Trust

Register Now!

Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch (in his 11th year) has programmed a rousing season of legendary stars and spectacular Pops performances for the 2005-06 season.

Bravo Broadway The stars of Broadway light up the stage with the hits of yesterday and today.

Performances: October 27-30, 2005 Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Doc Severinsen Doc, the versatile Grammy Award-winning former music director of “The Tonight Show,” will perform a variety of exhilarating styles from jazz to symphonic to the swinging big band sound.

Performances: November 17-20, 2005 Doc Severinsen, conductor and trumpeter Holiday Pops The PSO will perform timeless seasonal melodies accompanied by the voices of the Mendelssohn Choir and the Children’s Festival Chorus. A Pittsburgh tradition, the concert will include cherished carols and holiday classics, along with audience sing-alongs and magical surprises.

Performances: December 15-18, 2005 Daniel Meyer, conductor Neil Sedaka Celebrated music idol Neil Sedaka will fill the air with a selection of songs from his one thousand plus songbook, including “Breaking Up is Hard to Do,” “Calendar Girl,” and “Laughter in the Rain.”

Performances: January 19-22, 2006 Daniel Meyer, conductor, with Neil Sedaka It’s DeLovely: A Tribute to Cole Porter “Begin the Beguine,” “Night and Day,” “Away from it All,” “From this Moment On,” and “It’s DeLovely” are but a few of the hundreds of songs composed by music genius Cole Porter enjoyed at this performance.

Performances: February 23-26, 2006 Marvin Hamlisch, conductor, with Bobby Short, vocalist The 1950s: The Golden Age of Television The PSO presents a concert in true Ed Sullivan Show style. Hit Parade tunes, themes from classic TV shows, and songs by Rosemary Clooney, Doris Day, and Elvis highlight this nostalgic concert.

Performances: March 30-April 2, 2006 Jack Everly, conductor Ben Vereen Sings Sammy Davis, Jr. The PSO welcomes Ben Vereen to the Pops in a tribute to the ultimate “song and dance man,” Sammy Davis, Jr. Vereen’s musical, comedic, and dramatic skills are the perfect match for the music made famous by Davis at Las Vegas’ legendary Sands Hotel.

Performances: June 8-11, 2006 Marvin Hamlisch, conductor, with Ben Vereen Information: Subscriptions are being accepted for the seven-concert Pops series. Packages range in price from $108.50 to $475.50.

Call 412-392-4900 or order online at www.pittsburghsymphony.org.

Happenings Family Hospice and Palliative Care Activities For its 25th anniversary, Family Hospice and Palliative Care will host the “Toast To Life Celebration” at the Carnegie Music Hall on October 22. The formal dinner/ dance benefits the services provided to patients and families in the hospice program.

If interested in helping or attending, call 412-572-8812.

Friends of Family Hospice and Palliative Care auxiliary group will hold a card party and luncheon in October. All donations will benefit services provided to Family Hospice patients and families. For more information or to make a reservation, call 412-572-8812.

Volunteer Opportunity Family Hospice and Palliative Care seeks volunteers with professional skills to do computer work, office work, public relations, and special projects. Call now for more information at 412-572-8806.

Volunteer at Southwinds Volunteers are needed at Southwinds, Inc. Projects include special events, home improvement projects, and being a “special friend” to an individual. Share your time and talents by planting flowers, painting, or just make a new friend and companion.

Volunteer commitment can be on an ongoing basis or just to complete a project.

Southwinds, Inc. is a non-profit agency that provides community-involved living arrangements for 52 mentally retarded and developmentally challenged individuals.

You can make a difference in the life of someone with a mental disability. Share your spirit of giving with someone who needs your help today. Call Erika Evans, development assistant, at 724-941-7600.

Pittsburgh Vision Services Moves to a New Location

Newcomers of Upper St. Clair

Pittsburgh Visions Services (PVS), the region’s primary rehabilitation agency for people who are visually impaired and blind, moved to 1800 West Street in Homestead this past June to bring its operations at two sites under one roof. Previously, PVS operated from locations in Oakland and Bridgeville.

PVS was formed in 1997 with the merger of the Oakland-based Pittsburgh Blind Association and the Greater Pittsburgh Guild for the Blind of Bridgeville. Since the merger, PVS has owned and operated two separate facilities causing a drain on its operating budget.

Questions regarding PVS, its facilities, and its enhancements to operations from the move, can be directed to 412-368-4400.

The USC Lions Club is a major contributor to PVS.

The Newcomer’s Club of Upper St. Clair is open to women who are new to the USC community. Social interest groups and activities for women, couples, and families are planned throughout the year. Membership may be retained for five years. This is a great way to meet your new neighbors and become connected with your new community.

The 2005-06 Board members welcome you to join. They include Laura Jones, president; Felicia Musillo, vice-president; Amy Milone, recording secretary; Teresa Wong, corresponding secretary; Francoise Wilson, treasurer.

Please call Laura Jones at 412-854-7644 for more information. Welcome to Upper St Clair!

Mothers and More Mothers and More, a support group for moms who have altered their career path to care for their children at home, meet the first Monday of each month at 7:15 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills on Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon.

Visit www.geocities.com/mothersandmore_swpgh or call Helene Hollingsworth at 412-343-1916 for more information.  Fall 2005

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Diane Horvath, GRI

Real Estate Sales & Listing Leader USC Office 2004 412-833-3600 ext. 219 412-833-6808

Real Estate Services

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

75

Community Day 2005

Photos by Terry Kish

USC Lions Honored By U.S. Congress, Pennsylvania House and Senate For its 50 years of humanitarian service, Upper St. Clair Lions Club re-

ceived certificates of appreciation from the United States House of Representatives and from Pennsylvania’s House and Senate. The certificates were awarded at a special 50th anniversary banquet held May 6 at St. Clair Country Club. Each award recognized the club for its commitment to high ideals and standards of service to the Greater Pittsburgh community.

Presenting the awards were Paul Snatchco on behalf of Tim Murphy, U.S. House of Representatives; John Maher, Pennsylvania House of Representatives District 40; and John Pippy, Pennsylvania Senate District 37.

At the anniversary celebration, club president Wesley Hurst presented Pittsburgh Vision Services with a check for $5000. The donation was made possible because of USC residents, merchants, and many other friends who purchased plastic trash bags, leaf bags, brooms, and participated in other fund-raising events.

Lions District Governor Dennis McCarthy presented the International President’s Certificate of Appreciation, signed by International President Clement F. Kusiak, to Paul Rebholz and Lou Zemanski for outstanding dedication and service to “Lionism.”

Also recognized at the banquet were the following club members for 25 years of dedicated service: Rick Cobb, Wesley Hurst, Roy Johnson, Don Stoicovy, and Lou Zemanski.

USC Lions was formed on May 10, 1955, under the sponsorship of the McMurray Lions Club. William J. Esmieu was the first president and Donald I. Hutchinson was the first secretary. The club’s earliest meetings were held at Clifton School in Upper St. Clair. The school, which today no longer exists, was located at the site of the USCHS practice fields.

The club meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, September through May, at Pasquarelli’s Restaurant on Painter’s Run Road.

This year, the club launched a Bridgeville branch. For information about the Bridgeville or Upper St. Clair clubs, call Wesley Hurst at 724-941-8329. 

USC Lions Fall Leaf Bag Sale Saturday Dates: October 8, 15, 22, 29 and November 5, 12, 19 Time: 9 a.m. to noon Location: USC Department of Public Works building on the corner of McLaughlin Run Road and Truxton Drive

Do Lions Eat Crepes?

Do Lions eat crepes? Sure they do,

and so can you on Saturday, September 17, 2005, at the USC Recreation Center between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. On that day, the USC Lions Club will host its “Savory Crepes Festival.” Two crepes with your choice of fillings, salad, and drink will be served for only $6 per adult and $3 for one crepe for children under age ten. Reservations are not required. The Recreation Center is located on McLaughlin Run Road between the Township’s Municipal Building and the tennis courts.

For entertainment, hear the music of yesteryear as Lion Dave plays his German street organ and a professional pianist performs throughout the day. A silent auction will also be available.

The Upper St. Clair Lions Club was founded 50 years ago and today consists of 30 members. All funds raised by the

Lion Dave and friends

club are donated to worthy causes, many for the benefit of those with sight-related problems.

Each year, donations are made to Pittsburgh Vision Services, Western Pennsylvania School for the Blind, Upper St. Clair Library, Leader Dog Program, Radio Information Services, Beacon Lodge, and to needy local individuals for eye care. Many other non-profit organizations also receive funds. Additionally, a wristwatch and recognition are given to an Upper St. Clair High School junior selected by the school’s faculty for outstanding scholastic achievement and service to the school and community.

Come on Saturday, September 17 and enjoy the festivities! For more information call Lion Dave at 412-833-5678. Bring your family, neighbors, relatives, and friends. All are welcome! Please help us help others! 

For more information on the Lions Club, log on to www.mainstreetusc.com and link on to Lions Club listed under USC Clubs, or write to USC Lions at PO Box 12778, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241.

Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Local Clubs and Organizations Directory 1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President ....................................412-851-0570 American Assoc. of Retired Persons Bob Simpson .........................................................724-949-1253 American Assoc. of University Women Helpline........................................................... 1-800-326-AAUW Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club Tom Atkins..............................................................412-901-0987 Boy Scouts of America Darla DiGiovanni .................................................412-325-7973 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar ....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Women’s Club Pat Babcock ........................................................ 412-831-0704 Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward.......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Linda Serene, Executive Director....................... 412-831-1107 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ...........................................................412-221-5717 Friends of the Library Henry Higman, President ....................................412-833-5713 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President ...................................... 412-854-1835 Girl Scouts of USC Colleen Pikras .......................................................412-854-8150 Junior Woman’s Club, a Department of the Woman’s Club of USC ............................... 412-835-9607 League of Women Voters Laryn Finder ......................................................... 412-835-4097 Lifespan Virginia Jorofcik, Executive Director .................. 412-464-1300 Mothers and More Helene Hollingsworth .......................................... 412-343-1916 PTA Council Amy Billerbeck ......................................................412-833-2712 Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Karen Moellenberg .............................................412-833-6269 South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org ..........................................412-833-1177 South Hills College Club Joanne Ostergaard, President........................... 412-854-1394 South Hills Cotillion Club www.southhillscotillionclub.org ..........................412-221-5976 South Hills Interfaith Ministry (SHIM) Carol Popp, Executive Director.......................... 412-854-9120 South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich .....................................................412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Thomas Oelschlager ........................................... 724-941-6973 Town Hall South Ann Gabler .......................................................... 412-221-0297

USC Athletic Association Joe DeMarco, President ......................................412-221-1325 Baseball......................Rick Murray .................. 724-941-7183 Boys’ Basketball .........Jeff Conn ..................... 412-257-3239 Girls’ Basketball..........Tom Burke..................... 412-221-8591 Football ......................Joe DeMarco .............. 412-221-1325 Softball........................Keith Henderson.......... 412-833-2430 Fall Soccer..................Bill Littrell ....................... 412-835-7533 Traveling Soccer ........Craig Howie................. 412-835-2128 Wrestling .....................Jim Wilding................... 412-835-4270 Fields & Facilities ........Bill Barnard ................... 412-833-9374 Concession Stand .....Roseanne Geyer ......... 412-854-4314 USC Band Parents Anne and Tom Blank, Co-Presidents .................412-831-1869 USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Susan Hicks........................................................... 412-833-7753 USC Chamber of Commerce Rosemary Siddall ................................................. 412-833-9111 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship Jan Fleckenstein.................................................. 412-831-3289 USC Coterie Nancy Hartwig .....................................................412-833-6945 USC Democratic Committee Chris McNally ....................................................... 412-851-1918 USC Historical Society Jean Brown .......................................................... 412-833-2323 USC Hockey Club Bob Lohman ........................................................ 412-854-0807 USC League for the Arts Dave Criner, President ........................................412-831-6025 USC Library Lois Hoop, Director .............................................. 412-835-5540 USC Lions Club Wesley Hurst ......................................................... 724-941-8329 USC Lions Club Plastic Trash Bag Sales Wesley Hurst ......................................................... 724-941-8329 USC Newcomers Club Laura Jones, President .........................................412-854-7644 USC Republican Committee Jim Bolas .............................................................. 412-833-9841 USC Senior Citizens Older Adult Coordinator .................................... 412-831-9000 USC Swim Club Audrey Reilly, President ........................................412-429-0316 USC Volunteer Firefighters Jerry Kopach, Jr., President ................................ 412-835-0660 USC Welcome Wagon Judy Quashnock ..................................................724-941-0768 USC Woman’s Club .............................................. 412-835-9607 YMCA South Hills Area Tim Ishman............................................................ 412-833-5600

Please read articles about some of our clubs and organizations highlighted in this issue: Friends of the Library (page 37), USC Volunteer Firefighters (page 39), USC Senior Citizens (page 40), PTSO (page 60), 1830 Log House Association (page 69), Town Hall South (page 70), USC Lions Club (page 77).

The next Local Clubs and Organizations Directory will be published in the Spring 2006 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Please call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office if your club or organization would like to be listed in our directory, if we have wrong information, or if the club or organization’s information is expected to change by March 2006 at 412-833-1600, extension 2284. Thank you.

78

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Serving Upper St. Clair Churches and Synagogues

Nursery Schools

St. David’s Episcopal Church 905 E. McMurray Road, Peters Twp. 724-941-4060

Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-5132

St. George Orthodox Church 610 Dewey Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-2277 St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church 2005 Mohawk Road—412-835-7800

Beth-El Nursery School 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1168 Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0441

St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church 1610 McMillan Road—412-221-5445

Beverly Heights Christian Preschool 1207 Washington Road—412-561-7200

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

Center Church Christian Preschool 255 Center Church Road, McMurray—724-941-9050

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

Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road—412-854-4310

Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church 1207 Washington Road—412-561-5100

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

First Bethel United Church Weekday Ministries 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141

Center Presbyterian Church 255 Center Church Road, McMurray 724-941-9050

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

Chartiers Creek Community Church 4017 Washington Road #1000, McMurray 1-888-59CREEK (27335)

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

Alliance Church of Upper St. Clair 2510 Old Washington Road—412-835-4775 Berean Fellowship Church 300 Rockfield Circle, Scott Township 412-220-4673 Bethany Presbyterian Church 740 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville 412-221-5132 Beth-El Congregation Of South Hills 1900 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1168 Bethel Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-0405

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

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

South Hills Interfaith Ministries 1900 Sleepy Hollow Road, South Park 412-854-9120

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

Holy Child Preschool/Extended Day Bridgeville—412-221-4720 Kingdom Kids Nursery School 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 Little Lambs Of Hope Preschool 2799 Old Washington Road—724-941-9441 Montessori Early Childhood Center 2400 Old Washington Road—412-835-3340 Mushroom Family Learning Center 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-1225

First Church of Christ Scientist 1100 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-1125

South Hills Presbyterian Church in America 110 Hays Road—724-941-3480 www.southhillspca.org

Noah’s Ark Preschool-Our Redeemer Lutheran 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-942-6699

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

Ruthfred Lutheran Nursery School 412-835-7140

Good Shepherd Church USC High School, LGI Room Office: 2430 Old Washington Road—412-835-8354

The Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills 1240 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon 412-561-6277

St. David’s Episcopal Preschool McMurray and Hays—724-941-2058

First Bethel United Methodist Church 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-0700

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

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2040 Washington Road—412-835-6630

Holy Child Parish 212 Station Street, Bridgeville—412-221-5213

Day Care (Children)

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

Peters Creek Presbyterian Church 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-941-6210

Alphabet Land Day Care Center 3918 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4011 Bethel Park Presbyterian Church 2999 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 412-835-1043 Christ United Methodist Child Care Center 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-854-4310 First Bethel United Methodist Church Kings School 5901 Library Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6141 Happy Face Day Care Center 3322 Washington Road, McMurray—724-941-4172 KinderCare Learning Center 1040 Clifton Road, Bethel Park—412-831-1888 Magic Years 119 Hidden Valley Road, McMurray—724-941-5569 Westminster Child Development Center 2040 Washington Road—412-835-9450

Ruthfred Lutheran Church Patterson and South Park Roads, Bethel Park 412-835-7140

*Unless otherwise listed, the organization is located in Upper St. Clair Township.

Hope Lutheran Church 2799 Old Washington Road—724-941-9441 Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Cedar Blvd. at Hollycrest Dr., Mt. Lebanon 412-531-8554 Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church 255 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-531-3387 New Day Assembly of God 701 Circle Drive—724-941-1661 New Song Community Church 4767 Library Road, Bethel Park 412-341-1293 Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCA) 105 Gateshead Drive, McMurray—724-941-7467

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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St. Paul’s Episcopal Nursery Washington and Mayfair, Mt. Lebanon 412-531-2644 St. Thomas More Preschool 134 Fort Couch Road—412-833-1412 Temple Emmanuel 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon—412-279-7687 Westminster Nursery School 2040 Washington Road—412-835-2906 YMCA 51 McMurray Road—412-833-5600

Day Care (Adult) Prime Time Adult Care, Inc. 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-6661 Alzheimer Day Care 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park—412-835-5509 Easter Seals Brookwood Adult Day Care 250 Brookwood Road, Peters Twp.—724-942-4511

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

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To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine Call 412-833-1600, ext. 2284 Fall 2005

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

81

Advertiser Index F a l l

Advertiser

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A Painting Enterprise .........................................................................................81 Adelphia ...............................................................................................................9 APD Building Services, LLC ..............................................................................79 Alcorn Christie Insurance Agency ......................................................................47 Amel’s Restaurant ..............................................................................................10 Angelo Associates, Inc. .....................................................................................61 ARAMARK .........................................................................................................57 Asbury Heights ..................................................................................................47 Bedner’s Farm Market ........................................................................................71 Bill Gray Automotive ............................................................................................9 Blackstone Art of Design .....................................................................................1 C. W. Carlson Contractors, Inc. .........................................................................63 Calabro Tire & Auto Service ..............................................................................17 California University of Pennsylvania ..................................................................4 Carlson Wagonlit Travel .....................................................................................43 Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior .........................................79 Cathy Davin Interior Design ...............................................................................43 Center for Theater Arts .......................................................................................36 Churchill Real Estate Services ...........................................................................55 Clark Construction Company ............................................................................13 Coffey Contracting Company .............................................................................71 Coldwell Banker–Route 19 South/Galleria, USC, South Hills, Peters Twp. Offices ...............................................18, 19, 20 Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate ............................ Back outside cover Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ......................................................................................59 Deckmasters Technologies ................................................................................39 Design Image Salon ..........................................................................................43 “Dirt” Dugan Landscaping, Inc. .........................................................................79 Don’s Appliances ...............................................................................................79 Ferry Electric Company .....................................................................................79 Footloose ..........................................................................................................35 Friendship Village of South Hills .......................................................................46 Gabler & Associates, P.C. ..................................................................................13 GALLERIA of Mt. Lebanon .................................................................................84 Gateway Engineers ............................................................................................68 George Girty Landscape Design ..........................................................................9 Ghelarducci’s Garden Center .............................................................................79 Gurtner, Steven M., D.M.D. and Gurtner, Maggie, D.M.D. .................................27 Harmon F. E., Inc. ..............................................................................................73 Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. .........................................................................................48 Henderson Brothers, Inc. ...................................................................................37 Herman J. Heyl Florist .......................................................................................63 Hilton Garden Inn, Pittsburgh/Southpointe ........................................................11 Howard Hanna Real Estate Services .......................................... Front inside cover Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh ................................................................59 Howard Hanna–Susan Highley ..........................................................................31 Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ..........................................................................75

2 0 0 5

Advertiser

Jamie’s Restaurant .............................................................................................11 * Jaro Interiors, Inc. .............................................................................................17 Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh ...............................................68 Keller Williams–*Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ...............................................38 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ..................................................................42 * Lesko Builders and Remodelers ........................................................................75 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ...................................................................................43 Mellon Private Wealth Management Services ....................................................46 Melluci, John C., D.D.S., Family Dentistry ........................................................25 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy .................................................79 Nancy Sakino Spears, LLC ................................................................................57 New Perspectives Counseling Center ................................................................28 Northwood Realty–Bonnie Detwiler and Marlene McNaughton .........................41 P & W SAAB ......................................................................................................84 Pare’, Amelia, M.D. ............................................................................................28 Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................................42 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ......................................................................42 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet .......................................................................................74 Plastic Surgical Associates ................................................................................27 Preferred Primary Care Physicians ....................................................................29 Providence Point ....................................................................................Insert, 49 * Prudential Preferred Realty–Route 19 South ......................................................83 * Regis McQuaide & Co. Master Remodelers, Inc. ...............................................39 * Robin Richards Photography .............................................................................55 Rohrich Cadillac ................................................................................................41 Rollier’s Hardware ..............................................................................................81 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ..........................................................................7 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................................10 Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics .....................................................................23 Shadyside Academy ............................................................................................7 * Silk Road Gourmet Chinese Restaurant .............................................................10 Single Source Benefits, Inc. .......................................................... Front cover, 2,3 * South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C. .............................................29 * St. Clair Fitness & Racquet Club ........................................................................25 * St. Clair Hospital ...............................................................................................22 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy .................................................................42 Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, Inc. ............................................................25 Sunrise Senior Living ................................................................ Back inside cover The Classroom Restaurant .................................................................................10 * The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, Inc. ........................................................9 The Washington Hospital ...................................................................................26 UBS Financial Services .....................................................................................47 Valley Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. ..............................................................81 Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas ................................................................16 Westminster Presbyterian Church ......................................................................73 * You’re Invited .....................................................................................................61

Advertise with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, in publication since 1994.

Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 • Fax: 412-851-2592 • Website: www.twpusc.org/magazine *The above VIP advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 21 issues.

82

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Page

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

83

YOU’RE

EXTRAORDINARY...

S O W H Y S H O P T H E O R D I N A RY ?

Galleria of Mt. Lebanon gives you a world of choices to complement your own sense of style.

Whether you’re shopping for Mom, Dad, the kids, or something to make your house a home, you’ll be able to get it all – all in one place The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fall 2005

Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!

Point.

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Gracious home, livingroom marble fireplace, generous room sizes, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyroom, covered side porch!

Sue Kelso 412-344-0500 $217,900

Architectural dream on the greens of golf course! Contemporary ranch, 4Br, 3.5Ba, den, gamerm, luxurious features!

Stacy Romanias 412-833-5405 $995,000

Move.

Lovely updated brick ranch, livingroom and gameroom fireplace, French doors to deck, 2 car garage!

Barbara Cusick 412-833-5405 $151,900

Charming cape cod, 2Br, 1.5Ba, sitting room off master, one car garage!

Carol Marks 412-833-5405 $105,000

Deerfield Manor - unique & spacious country French multi-level, 5Br, 3.5Ba, gourmet cherry kit, familyrm fireplace!

Ginny Macaul 412-831-5555 $394,900

Updated & bright! Cape cod on 1 acre, 4Br, 3.5Ba, den, gameroom, 2 car garage!

Maria & Joe Lane 412-344-0500 $369,900

Newer Elish kitchen, double ovens, island, skylites, walls of windows, 4Br, 3.5Ba, familyroom, gameroom!

Anita Crago 412-344-0500 $324,900

Quality provincial, spacious throughout, kitchen w/ breakfast area, island & laundry, 4Br, 2.5Ba, familyrm to deck!

Gladys Walasik 412-344-0500 $439,900

Split entry in great condition! Lovely decor, familyroom fireplace, 3Br, 2.5Ba, large yard!

Nancy Beaulieu 412-344-0500 $189,900

Lovely multi-level, great kitchen w/ breakfast area, familyroom fireplace, den or 5th bedroom, 3Ba, level yard!

Judy Hlister 412-833-5405 $234,900

Multi-level in great location, livingroom fireplace, familyroom, gameroom, 4Br, 2.5Ba, deck, nice lot!

Don Wood 412-833-5405 $224,000

Spectacular custom brick! Grand foyer, den, 4Br, master w/ two walk-in closets & sitting room, upgrades galore!

Lisa Santangelo 412-831-5555 $442,500

Fabulous new construction, gourmet kitchen, paneled library, greatroom fireplace, 4Br, French doors to deck!

Bonnie Loya 412-831-5555 $619,900

Trotwood Hills-Well appointed home, ceramic, hdwd, famrm fireplace, large bedrms, gameroom, patio on cul-de-sac!

Suzanne/Gary 412-831-5555 $319,900

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By NRT Incorporated.

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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