Winter 2018 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2018

discussing a half-century of medical evolution

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

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

Upper St. Clair Office • 180 Fort Couch Rd, Upper St. Clair, Pa 15241 412-833-3600 • HowardHanna.com

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Clockwise from top: David Glorioso, M.D.; Mark A Cedar, D.O.; Robert Pagano, M.D.; Lisa A Oliva, D.O.; Nicholas Bellicini, D.O.; Xuong Lu, M.D., Theresa Schuerle, D.O.; David Limauro, M.D.

Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1

Compassionate care, naturally.

Raye J. Budway, M.D.

Tara L. Grahovac, M.D.

More women are choosing the St. Clair Hospital Breast Care Center, making it western Pennsylvania’s second largest program.1 The women leading our highly experienced surgical team uniquely understand the needs and sensitivities of their patients. At St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center, every patient receives a full continuum of expert, compassionate care in a warm, comfortable environment.

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center – Village Square 2000 Oxford Drive, Suite 301, Bethel Park, PA 15102 St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center – Peters 3928 Washington Road, Suite 100, McMurray, PA 15317 412.942.7800 | stclair.org

1Source: Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council

RayeJ. Budway, M.D. specializes in breast surgery. She earned her medical degree at Hahnemann University in Philadelphia. Dr. Budway completed her residency training in general surgery at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital and a fellowship in surgical critical care at UPMC. She previously served as the Site Program Director for the Allegheny General Hospital General Surgery Residency Program, and Director of the Surgical Breast Disease Program and Surgical Intensive Care at West Penn Hospital. She is board-certified in surgical critical care and general surgery. She is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and serves on the Fellowship’s Commission on Cancer.

3D 3D MAMMOGRAPHY MAMMOGRAPHY

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ULTRASOUND ULTRASOUND

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Tara L. Grahovac, M.D. specializes in breast surgery. She earned her medical degree at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Grahovac completed her residency in general surgery at Allegheny General Hospital, and a fellowship in breast surgery at UPMC Magee Womens Hospital. She is boardcertified by the American Board of Surgery and is certified as a trained clinical fellow in breast surgical oncology by a Society of Surgical Oncology-accredited program.

BREAST SURGERY

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Winter 2018 • Volume 24 • Issue 4 www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home • usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Features & Around the Township 12

School District 25

Township 44

Safety First

Recycling Changes Begin January 1, 2019

46

A scientific experiment gone awry

27

Inaugural 5th Quarter— USC Alumni Homecoming

National Flood Insurance Programs

31

48

Pawprints A USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

Tri-Community South EMS 40th Anniversary A look at the fourth decade

Crankcase Chaos

14

Global Answers for Nicaragua Include USC

16

Sometimes We Learn Lessons the Hard Way

23

Fir or Faux 4 U?

34

USC Students Named AP Scholars

66

From Crappy to Happy

68

Traveling with TODAY

Take TODAY with you on your next adventure

School District Community Pep Rally

62

Common Fire Hazards A report from the USC Volunteer Fire Department

Neighborhood Block Parties

64

Community Foundation Golf Outing

Winter Recreation Programs

Exploring nature can help you cope

Photo Ops 28

54 56

Directories 18 Winter Wonderful 36 Life Planning 41 Pinebridge Commons 80 Advertiser Index

65

Community Foundation Movie Night

Cover

76

The winter cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is Guides/ sponsored

by South Hills OBGYN and Dr. Robert Rankin, a full time private practice doctor of obstetrics and gynecology who now provides full time gynecological care to patients. See pages 10 and 11 for a feature article.

Around the Township

51

New Police Chief Sworn In

21

The Tale of Two Tannenbaums

29

Coach Render Reaches Milestone

35

Baker Playground Is Ready for Fun!

62

Neighborhood Block Parties 4

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2018

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Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine dedicated to promoting the

Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here. This year marks 24 years of our publication.

The 96th 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.

Spring 2019 edition deadlines:

Articles—January 10 Advertising—January 14

Summer 2019 edition deadlines:

Articles—March 14 Advertising—March 18

Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager,

Advertising Executive Lynn Dempsey, Advertising Executive Alison Hess, Marketing and

Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Lynn Dempsey, Alison Hess, and Dorothy Clark.

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

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

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2019 issue and will be published in March 2019. 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:

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and mailed

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

quarterly to residents and businesses in Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Township of Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and Township Library.

If you did not receive a copy in the mail, call 412-833-1600, extension 2284.

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

Editor

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising Information

Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@uscsd.k12.pa.us

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

6

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Township Board of Commissioners

Mark D. Christie, President, Ward 4 Nicholas J. Seitanakis, Vice President, Ward 1 C. Elise Logan, Ward 2 Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3 Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5 Russell R. Del Re, At Large Daniel R. Paoly, At Large

Winter 2018

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Becky Brindle, Cindy Brophy, Mark Collins, John D’Angelo, Dr. Kevin Deitrick, Lisa DeLucia, Lynn Dempsey, Marjie Doughton, Chet Dudzinski, Michael Ference, Dina Fulmer, Heather Holtschlag, Stephanie Jiménez, Dr. Terrence Kushner, Jay Lynch, Rachel McClaine, Ron Morosky, Jim O’Brien, Kevin O’Laughlin, Helen Palascak, Russ Rauch, Dora Rudick, Ron Sarrick, Andrew Seay, Mary Lynne Spazok, Marilyn Walsh, and Dr. Carly Zuwiala.

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute.

The 96th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2018.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web version, in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited.

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

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7

A Winter Note from the Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Welcome to this edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our last issue for 2018. As we don sweaters, coats, and boots to shield ourselves from winter’s approaching bite, spirited gatherings keep us light of heart and in the company of loved ones. It is these friendly activities that help stave off winter doldrums.

Don’t let winter keep you down and indoors! A proven fact, getting outdoors and enjoying nature at any time of year is beneficial to our health (see article on page 66). Heed this sage advice, and notice how a spirited walk in freshly fallen snow awakens your senses. The Township’s Boyce Mayview Park or Allegheny Land Trust’s Wingfield Pines are great options for winter wonderland strolls.

At all times of the year, the School District is committed to its mission of providing a community of excellence, which includes the safety and security of its students and staff. Page 25 discusses security measures in our six school buildings and how the District is prepared to respond to emergencies of all natures.

The District enjoys sharing information about its most recent class of Hall of Famers (page 26) and news about its inaugural 5th Quarter homecoming (page 27), an event for all USC alumni that is expected to become a treasured tradition in our community.

Coming down the pike is our Township’s overhaul of the recycling program. Beginning January 1, 2019, new protocol is in place and will affect your recycling habits. See pages 44–45 and be on the lookout for the Township-mailed 2019 Trash & Recycling Information brochure that will fully explain what items are acceptable for this program and why.

The Township is proud to introduce its newest chief of police, Jonathan E. Wharton. If you don’t already know Jon, read page 51 for an introduction to this lifelong USC resident.

On Saturday, December 8, Santa is visiting USC, along with his helpers from the USC Volunteer Fire Department.

See page 55 and check the USC VFD website (uscvfd.org) for approximate times that Jolly Old St. Nick will be in our neighborhoods. If we are fortunate, the weather forecast might call for some light snow to broaden the smiles on the faces of those—young and old—who come out to greet him.

So, whether you are mostly indoors or outdoors during your “off” time in these upcoming winter months, stay tunedin to what’s happening in Upper St. Clair and get involved in things that comfort you. Wherever you are, please continue to be a good friend, a good neighbor, a good citizen. Our highly-regarded Township is a result of our collective efforts and each person plays an important role!

Goodbye 2018. See you in the New Year!

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2018

usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

9

Gynecology (and Medicine in General) Continues to Evolve Robert C. Rankin, MD

I enrolled in medical school in September 1971 when expected to rest quietly or pace nervously, all the while smoking I was 20 years old, and finished my residency in obstetrics and cigarettes. In fact, I remember opening the waiting room door to gynecology in July 1978. I was in the full-time private practice announce the birth (and sex) of the child, and had to first brace of obstetrics and gynecology from then until August 2018, when myself to cope with the thick cigarette smoke escaping into the I chose to electively stop delivering babies and devote all of my hallway. Some older obstetricians would say that the appropriate professional time to providing gynecological care for my patients. amount of time to wait for a patient about to push the baby out I have been asked to reflect on the changes that have occurred in was the time it took to smoke a cigar at the nurses’ station. Today, medicine over that period of time. the father of the baby is usually in the delivery room (some still To put things into perspective, in 1971 the Pittsburgh Pirates faint), and smoking is prohibited inside the hospital and within won the World Series. Life expectancy in the United States was ten feet of the building.

68 years for a male and 75 for a female. Today, life expectancy for In 2003, the human genome project was completed, detailing males is 76 and 81 for females. In 1971, Richard Nixon was presi- the 6.7 billion base pairs of human DNA, which revolutionized dent, Watergate had not yet happened, gasoline was $.40/gallon, genetic testing and counseling. A simple blood test from the and the United States had 500,000 soldiers fighting in Vietnam. mother can now determine whether the baby has too many or Two things that have happened in medicine that have, in too few chromosomes and can also test for up to 200 potential general, improved the quality of lives are the improvement of genetic mutations in the baby. Simple genetic screening can be cataract surgery in ophthalmology and the use of joint replace- done on the mother and father before pregnancy to determine ment surgery in orthopedic surgery. In 1971, cataract surgery was whether or not there are any genetic mutations in the parents. a major three-hour procedure that was done infrequently. It was In the ’70s and early ’80s, the care of the diabetic mother was believed that joint replacement might only last for five years, so it extremely difficult and resulted in many poor outcomes. Babies SOUTH OBGYN was not performed on the very old. Now cataract surgery takesHILLS a who were delivered tooASSOCIATES early had trouble breathing and babies ocmere 15 minutes, and joint replacement surgery is often done as casionally died in utero at the end of pregnancy. It was found in the with Robert C. Rankin, MD, FACOG an out-patient procedure. Both are done on patients of any age, early ’80s that pregnancies did remarkably better if the blood sugar and these procedures are among the most commonly 412-572-6127 performed was well •controlled.

Home glucose monitoring with finger sticks www.shobgyn.com procedures in America. became available, allowing for the precise control of blood sugars.

I am, of course, more aware of the changes that have occurred Today, if the blood sugar of a diabetic pregnancy is well controlled, in obstetrics and gynecology since 1971. The cesarean section rate it is at no greater risk than that of a non-diabetic pregnancy. in 1971 was six percent. It is now 32%. Most of that increase is In the ’70s, the treatment for premature labor was IV alcohol. attributable to an increase in the diagnosis of the baby being too In my opinion, that treatment never worked very well, but it did large to “fit out,” the belief that all breech babies should be deliv- lead to some very inebriated patients. Today, we can accurately ered by cesarean section, and an increase in the diagnosis of the diagnose premature labor with a lab test and effectively treat it baby’s heart rate decelerating during labor. The ubiquitous use of with medicine. the ultrasound today makes the diagnosis of these potential birthWhen I went into private practice, there were very few large ing issues easy. In 2018, almost every pregnant patient receives groups of obstetricians and gynecologists; almost all were in priat least one ultrasound examination. That technology was just vate practice. Most doctors were in solo practice or had, at most, becoming available in the ’70s. In fact, looking at an ultrasound in one partner. In fact, Magee-Womens Hosptial had the largest numthe ’70s was similar to watching babies on your television in 2018 ber of private practice deliveries of babies in the country. Today, when turned to channel 3 without cable. The technology today you would be hard pressed to is so good that it is now easy to see details such as the valves in find an obstetrician at Magee the baby’s heart and the fingers on the baby’s hands. who is in private practice.

In 1971, epidural anesthesia was rarely used and only adminisUntil the mid to late ’70s, tered under special circumstances. Today, the vast most insurance companies majority of patients delivering vaginally are given considered pregnancy to be an epidural anesthetic during labor and made to elective medical care and, feel quite comfortable. therefore, would not pay for Delivery in 1979 When I first started practicing medicine, a obstetrical care. That changed patient would arrive at the hospital to have a baby at the end of the decade with and be placed in a delivery room. Her husband the passage of a well-conceived federal law. would be directed to a waiting room where he was Today, insurance companies pay for obstetrical

Schedule an appointment today at

10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2018

DXA scanning machine

care and hospital stays as they do for any other medical condition.

The length of hospital stays post-surgery has dramatically decreased. After gallbladder surgery, I recall when the length of stay was ten days, and orthopedic and gynecologic post-surgery required a week in the hospital. Today, most surgery is done through small incisions with a laparoscope or by robotics and can be done as an outpatient procedure or with a single, overnight stay in the hospital.

In gynecology, several changes have occurred in the past 45 years that have had quite a positive effect on the lives of women.

When I first began practicing medicine, we thought that only women with a significant family history of breast cancer should be given a mammogram. Because of this, about once a month I would feel a breast lump in a patient that was diagnosed cancerous. Since the cancer had grown large enough to feel, these tumors had often already spread to other parts of the body and, as such, the survival rate was poor and length of “quality life” after diagnosis was short. In the early ’80s, the medical community decided that all women were at risk for breast cancer, and we began screening all women over the age of 40 with regular mammograms. I now almost never feel a breast lump that turns out to be cancer. The same number of women have breast cancer, but it is generally discovered by a mammogram when it is too small to detect by examination. Because it is found in its early stages, the tumor has rarely spread and the survival rate is significantly greater than 90%.

The number of hysterectomies performed is significantly decreased due to the fact that various non-surgical treatments are available to deal with problems which, in the past, would have required surgery. Fibroid tumors (benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus) can be decreased in size either with medication or by stopping the blood supply to the tumor. Multiple medications are now available to relieve symptoms of urinary incontinence and the lining of the uterus can be ablated (burned away) to either eliminate or significantly decrease heavy bleeding. These were the most common indications for having a hysterectomy 40 years ago.

Birth control has also improved remarkably over time. The newer IUDs are dramatically safer than those in use in the ’70s.

The amount of estrogen in hormonal contraceptives (i.e., birth control pills) has decreased by at least 50% and up to 80%. The decrease in the amount of hormone in the pill has led to such a drop in the number of major side effects that you rarely see a significant side effect of the pill. There is even an implant, which is inserted under the skin of the arm, that provides contraception for up to three years.

The recent treatment of osteoporosis and osteopenia has been so successful that I almost neglected to include it in this article.

In 2006, South Hill OBGYN purchased a DXA scanning machine, exactly like the hospitals have. At that time, no one really knew what percentage of the population had osteoporosis because there was no method of diagnosis. You may remember one condition where many women (and men) had hump backs or severe spinal curvatures. Caused by tiny breaks in the vertebrae, they are painful. That was 12 years ago. Today, there are successful, easily administered medications that not only control and stop the progression of osteoporosis, but actually repair the damage to some degree. Because so many women have had a bone density scan, many characteristics of the disease have been discovered. For example, scans of those without osteoporosis are not required to undergo scanning often unless an adverse event has occurred. If you stop to think about it, you will notice that there are very few gray-haired ladies with a stooped posture. Of course, science has also improved hair dyes, and naturally gray hair is also somewhat uncommon today.

All things considered, life is both longer and of better quality in 2018 as compared to 1971. It leads one to wonder what will happen in the next 47 years. If I was to venture a guess, I would think that the greatest changes in medicine will come from the study of human genetics. The human genome project has been completed for only 16 years, and we have already learned so much from it. It is easy to imagine that once we have a more thorough understanding of how our DNA works, it will be possible to use that knowledge to affect the course of disease.

I look forward to treating all my gynecology patients and introducing them to the continuing improvements in gynecology care for women. n

Schedule an appointment today at

SOUTH HILLS OBGYN ASSOCIATES with Robert C. Rankin, MD, FACOG 412-572-6127 • www.shobgyn.com

Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

11

Crankcase Chaos Jay Lynch

Back in 1962, science classes at Eisenhower School always included lectures (and quizzes) on the workings of the internal combustion engine. As a young student, I wondered why we had to learn about a dated technology that would soon be surpassed by jet engines, rockets, solar power, wind and water turbines, and nuclear fission. After all, a rocket engine had just propelled Alan Shepard into space. Hometown Westinghouse was building nuclear powered submarines and the nearby Shippingport atomic power station was producing the world’s first nuclear energy.

Even commercial jet aircraft were replacing propeller-driven planes.

All this progress made me confident of the quick demise of the internal combustion engine.

I remember asking Mr. Radaker, my fifth grade teacher, “If George Jetson doesn’t need to know how a four-stroke engine works, why do I?” But he insisted that gasoline engine cars with rubber tires would likely dominate personal transportation during my entire lifetime. My response: “No way! If I grow up to be a mechanic, I’ll need to know about solar turbine technology, not pistons, crankshafts, and spark plugs. And, if I go to college, I’ll be flying around campus in a jet pack.”

Of course, Mr. Radaker was right. Ten years later, while attending Purdue University, my car was a high-mileage, poorly maintained rustheap with an old-fashioned 8-cylinder engine. The Olds Cutlass guzzled gas, oil, and antifreeze. I masked the sounds of its failing water pump with Pink Floyd and Steely Dan blasting from my cassette tape deck.

Purdue was (and is) highly regarded for its engineering school.

Many of my Phi Kappa Psi fraternity brothers were majoring in enJay Lynch, leaning on his Cutlass gineering and, as you might expect, very well-versed on car engine design and repair. However, as an economics major, I was focused on academic theory and clueless about mechanical realities. My lousy attitude about car engine knowledge (and poor quiz results from Mr. Radaker) resulted in infrequent and second-rate car repair. When a gas station mechanic told me the oil in my Cutlass looked like molasses and smelled like a forest fire, I knew it was time to change the oil and replace the filter. It was a seemingly simple task, so I bought the oil and filter and proceeded to the Phi Psi parking lot.

I borrowed a wrench from my good friend Tom Mingee, a fraternity brother, engineering student, and one of my best friends when we graduated from USC High School in 1971. He asked me why I needed the wrench. Knowing my questionable mechanical skills, Tom offered a good-natured, sly snicker when I told him I intended to change the oil in my car. With back-handed encouragement, he said, “Even an econ major can handle an oil change!”

I crawled under the car and tried to remove the oil pan drain plug. But it was rusted and wouldn’t budge. After multiple attempts, and bloody knuckles, I gave up. My ego was deflated. I’d have to admit to Tom and the rest of my brothers that I couldn’t even change my oil. However, I started thinking about an alternative. Since oil circulated throughout the engine, there might be another way to drain it. I could remove the oil filter and run the engine, thereby forcing the oil out the filter hole. Then, I could

Purdue University’s Phi Kappa Psi fraternity house in the 1930s, when the coal hole was likely in full use 12

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2018

Fraternity brothers outside the Phi Kappa Psi house; Tom Mingee is second from left

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install the new filter and add the oil. Voila! Mission accomplished! Mr. Radaker would be so proud of me!

But there was a problem. I needed a way to catch the oil as it flowed out of the engine. A large bucket wouldn’t fit under the car and using my rusted jack would have been risky. My solution: the “coal hole laundry room.”

The Phi Psi house was a classic, three-story red brick structure. It was built in the days when coal was used to fire its steam-heat boiler. The boiler had been retrofitted to use natural gas, and an empty basement room (where the coal had been stored) adjacent to the boiler and beneath the parking lot remained. When a few washers and dryers were placed in the room, it was deemed the “coal hole laundry room.” There was a man-hole in the ceiling that opened to the parking lot, where, at one time, coal had been dumped from delivery trucks. My plan was to carefully park my Cutlass so that the engine was over the hole. I’d remove the oil filter, and from the coal hole below, I’d climb a ladder and hold a bucket beneath the oil filter hole.

All I needed was for someone to start the engine and let it run until all the old oil had drained into the bucket.

When I excitedly told Tom about my plan, he gave me a blank stare. He wasn’t sure whether to tell me about the flaw in my plan or let me discover it for myself. Sensing the entertainment opportunity, he stifled himself and agreed to start and stop the car’s engine on my command. On our way to the parking lot, he asked other brothers to join him to “see how an economist changes his car’s oil.” It became an impromptu party.

Tom sat in the driver’s seat as I positioned myself beneath the engine, on the ladder. I removed the old filter, positioned

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the bucket and yelled, “Let ’er rip, Tom!” When he turned the key, the assembled brothers watched in amazement (and amusement) as high-pressure oil sprayed from the engine, covering my head, face, shoulders, and everything in the laundry room.

Very little oil made it into the bucket. Unlucky brothers, whose clothes were in the laundry room, had permanently oil-soaked jeans, shirts, and undies.

I could hear playful sarcastic applause and cheers as I descended the ladder to survey the damage. As I cleaned the laundry room with kitty litter and contemplated the cost of replacing the ruined clothing, I thought about Mr. Radaker and the part of his lecture that I clearly missed… an internal combustion engine’s oil pressure, at idle, is at least 40 psi. In addition, I think my buddy, Tom, may have revved the engine a little, just for fun.

So, kids, when your science teacher lectures you on a seemingly ancient but not completely outdated technology, pay attention. Being saturated with filthy oil and trying to get it out of your hair is no fun at all! n Tom Mingee, USCHS Class of 1971

Your comments about this story are welcome; send them to bkefather@yahoo.com.

Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Global Answers for Nicaragua Include USC Chet Dudzinski

It has been said that it takes a village to raise a child. If that is true, what does it take for a generation of youth to rise up out of poverty? How could some of the most under-served children in the world possibly be introduced to leadership and educational skills? What The first practice for Coach Timmy Hayes and his small group of swimmers it takes is passion… and the sport of swimming.

Water surrounds Nicaragua, the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. To the east is the Caribbean and to the west is the Pacific Ocean. In the middle are Central America’s largest natural lakes. Despite that, when Timmy Hayes moved to Nicaragua in 2013, he realized very few of the locals knew how to swim. More troubling was the extreme poverty he witnessed.

Two years removed from college, Timmy began working with a nonprofit in Managua, Nicaragua. Assigned to help improve classes at a local public school in the outskirts of Managua, he began to develop meaningful relationships with a small group of students. Timmy often asked himself “Why can’t I do more for the citizens of Nicaragua, and how can I make the difference?” His answer was to invite a few kids over to a backyard pool of a home owned by a mission group to teach them how to swim.

Enter the Nica Nadadores.

Timmy, Kyle Shoemaker, and Scot Robison all swam collegiately; Timmy and Scot at the University of Virginia and Kyle at Clemson. Each a lifelong swimmer, they personally know the benefits of the student-athlete lessons they learned along the way— hard work, goal setting, dedication, and commitment—provide lifelong skills destined to lead to success. But while this notion is second nature to those in the United States, could it also be true in a country with the many challenges of Nicaragua? They were ready to find out… and now, four years later, are realizing the answer is a resounding “Yes!” The program began with only a handful of swimmers in a kidney shaped pool, where kids formerly afraid of water began to learn how to blow bubbles while wearing jeans and T-shirts because they had no swim suits. After four years of growth and moving to a pool at a nearby mission that is a “whopping” three lanes and 20 yards long, they are looking to purchase their own property on which to build an aquatics facility. Their vision? Their own eight-lane, 25-meter competition pool, a learning facility, computer lab, recreational area, and dorms for the frequent visitors and interns whom they host.

How does Upper St. Clair tie into this equation? Plenty. Timmy and Scot swam at the University of Virginia, where they met Kyle Dudzinski.

Kyle began swimming for Upper St. Clair Swim Club at the age of eight, further developing his athletic talent and love for swimming through high school and college. Upon graduation as a student-athlete from Virginia with a bachelor’s degree and from the University of Michigan with a master’s degree, he began working in the Washington, DC area and volunteered to assist the Nadadores from afar. Through this volunteer position, Kyle learned that the three founding Nadadores board members were looking to expand board membership. Enter the writer of this article, Chet Dudzinski, who now sits on the board of the Left to right: Timmy Hayes, Kyle Shoemaker, Scot Robison Nadadores. But that is not all. The Upper St. Clair High School swim team permitted an informational booth to be set up at their annual Black and White scrimmage in the fall of 2017, where approximately $2000 was raised. Additionally, Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics (PEAQ) aligned with USC and held a 2018 summer swim meet where Chet and Kyle Shoemaker provided information about the Nadadores. As a result of this effort, dozens of pieces of swimming equipment, including hard-to-find snorkels, were donated by PEAQ and the Dudzinskis to the Nadadores this past summer.

During a summer 2018 board trip to Nicaragua, Chet toured the area scouring land where the Nadadores could feasibly build its own facility. All of this effort seems to be working, although slower than hoped.

“Most of these children in our program could not swim when we Chet Dudzinski gives a high five to a deserving swimmer started the program,” said Timmy. “Our home base of Chiquilistagua for a great practice.

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is in a very poor area of Nicaragua, secluded from any signs of wealth, including swimming pools.

The children enjoy little amenities, and recreational swimming (also a survival skill) is not among them.

More importantly, the main mission of our program is to secure educational scholarships to private schools for every child who shows a commitment to our swim The current three-lane pool, with swim noodles as lane lines program. Let’s just say that the only way these children can maximize their potential is through private education. We’re very proud of that,” Timmy continued.

Indeed, the first generation of student-athletes are coming of age. The program now boasts more than 100 swimmers, all who have learned many valuable life lessons that the sport of swimming ingrains. A few of these children dream of traveling to America, perhaps on swimming scholarships. More importantly, the lessons they are learning are, hopefully, translating into expanded life-long opportunities.

The Nica Nadadores’ mission—Using the sport of swimming to empower the next generation of leaders in underserved Nicaraguan communities—is seemingly working. Most of these children never had a reason to say “Yes, I can do that in my life.” They don’t usually get the positive reinforcement prevalent (and sometimes taken for granted) in America. “We are beginning to change that outlook. And we whole-heartedly believe that this transformation will lead them to become future leaders of Nicaragua,” said Timmy.

Funding does not come easy. The Nicaraguan government has problems of its own, although a long-course 50-meter pool owned by the government is made available to the Nadadores twice a week. The national swimming federation does not support the Nadadores. Funding for the program comes from donations mainly raised in the United States.

“We have a strong group of core supporters, mostly our friends and family,” said Timmy. “To take the next step to create our own facility, we certainly will have to expand our current reach.”

So, how many people does it take to support this “village” of an idea and fund the Nadadores program, which is already transforming lives?

How do you amplify a program that has its foot gently placed on the gas pedal? It takes people like you and me who can offer our care and support of a program that is making a noticeable and enormous difference for the next generation Team members of the Nadadores show off snorkel donations of citizens of our world. n received from PEAQ swim club.

Want to learn more and find ways to help? Visit the Nica Nadadores site at http://nicanadadores.org or contact Chet Dudzinski locally at 412-953-0672.

Winter 2018

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15

Sometimes We Learn Lessons the Hard Way Jim O’Brien

It was snowing when I showed up for class in the second grade at St. Stephen’s School in Hazelwood. It was 1948 and I was wearing my dark blue snow suit. This old-fashioned, no-nonsense snowsuit was quite practical in bad weather. Covering my entire legs down to my ankles, it had a bib with two straps that went over the shoulders and tied in the back. It made good sense to wear it on cold, wintry days.

Age seven at the time, I entered the classroom, which was on the first floor of the pale-orange brick school building, when a few girls began making fun of me for my outfit. While I loved getting attention from girls, even back then, this was not in the way I had hoped. Finally, their teasing got the best of me and I hollered back at them, “My old lady made me wear it!”

My teacher, Sister Macrina, who was seated at her desk opposite the doorway, was as far away from me as she could possibly be. But, in a split second, she was up and out of her seat and squarely in my face.

Sister Macrina, I must explain, was one of the few nuns of the Sisters of Charity order who did not take Mary as her name when she became a nun. Instead, she took the name Macrina in tribute to a nun in the early days of the Christian Church who is revered as a saint in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Catholic, and Orthodox churches. My memory of Sister Macrina that day is hardly reverent. Then again, I was no saint.

She seized me by my snowsuit straps and hurriedly ushered me into the robbery room, or cloak room, where we stored our coats and jackets during the school day. Holding the straps away from my body, she proceeded to hang me up on a clothes hook.

She stood back to admire her handiwork before she left to go back to the classroom.

Since that fateful morning, I never again referred to my mother as “my old lady.” Sometimes we learn lessons the hard way.

In any case, I was all too familiar with the cloak room, since it was also used as a “time-out” room. I am reminded of my days in that room whenever I see my grandchildren sitting in their “time out” chair in the hallway of their home.

Solitary confinement for sure, I missed quite a bit of schooling while spending my time in the cloakroom. A small closet in the room housed a box of candy bars intended to reward worthy students at the end of each month. There were always a few candy bars missing during my quiet and often cloakroom visits, since I knew I was not destined to get candy bars for being well-behaved.

In those days, nuns weren’t restricted in their replies to student misbehavior. I occasionally had a switch taken to my backside and a ruler with a metal edge strike the back of my hands. Fortunately, I am able to do my job and type my columns without permanent infliction. Imagine the trouble a teacher would get into today.

But, that was routine punishment in my school days. One day while a college student at Pitt, I ran into one of my grade school nuns who shared her recollection. “You weren’t bad, Jimmy, just mischievous,” said Sister Mary Pius.

In truth, I remember my school days at St. Stephen’s fondly.

I learned a lot, except for how to tell time quickly. Even today, I pause before I tell someone what time it is when asked.

At St. Stephen’s, we were graded on behavior on our report cards, in addition to the usual subjects of English, art, history, and religion. I did well in art and religion. My wife, Kathie, is still 16

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impressed with how well I do on religious topics when we play Jeopardy. I would always get a NS (not satisfactory) for the topic “is reverent at prayer and church.”

As students, we attended Mass Jim O’Brien, at age seven as a class on Wednesday, as well as with our families on Sunday.

I must have done a lot of whispering during Mass.

Mary, the name of Jesus’ mother, was also the name of my mother and my sister, Mary Carole O’Brien. The popularity of the name “Mary” was widespread at St. Stephen’s. Five of my eight grade school teachers (grades one through eight) were Marys— Sister Mary Thomas, Sister Mary Patrick, Sister Mary Lucy (also known as “Liver Lip Lucy” because of her tightly-sealed lips), Sister Mary Pius, and Sister Mary Leo. The school’s principal, who I got to know quite well, was also a Mary—Sister Mary Barbara.

Regardless of my occasional antics, Sister Mary Patrick liked me. Knowing I was fascinated with American Indians, she would bring me copies of Arizona Highways magazine, which included many pictures of Indians.

While in her class, my mother thought school ran a half hour later than it actually did since I was in detention almost every day. I didn’t mind, though. I got an early start on my homework.

Most of my friends were serving detention, too. Ours was a rough group. Out of 24 boys in that class, five went on to serve jail time throughout a portion of their illustrious careers. I am proud to say that I wasn’t one of them.

In seventh grade, I was “traded” and sent across the hall to be with Sister Ann Patricia. Apparently, the nun to whom I was originally assigned was under-experienced in dealing with the likes of me. Sister Ann Patricia was the most demanding nun I ever had, but we became life-long friends. Rather than hitting me for good measure, she would embarrass me with her critical comments of my actions in front of the class.

Sister Ann Patricia was from West Homestead and her father and brother both worked at Mesta Machine Company in West Homestead, along with my dad and his two brothers and, eventually, my brother, Dan, who became the company treasurer. Dan became a Hazelwood success story.

I kept in touch with Sister Ann Patricia while she was the principal at St. Luke’s in Carnegie, and I often visited her when she moved to a retirement home in Greensburg. I could share anything with her, and I often did.

Sister Mary Leo, my eighth grade teacher, once told my mother, “Someday your son is going to end up in Sing Sing.” Sing Sing is a prison in Ossining, New York. When I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1964, my mother sent Sister Mary Leo an invitation to the ceremony. “See, he didn’t end up in Sing Sing, after all,” wrote my mom, Mary Minnie O’Brien.

My friend and Pittsburgh’s iconic sports commentator Myron Cope cautioned my mother not to write that… not quite yet. “I think your kid might still have a shot at it,” said Cope, kiddingly.

Many years later… I am… so far, so good! n Columnist Jim O’Brien is currently working on the 30th book in his Pittsburgh Proud series. His latest book is Looking Up: From the ABA to the NBA, the WNBA to the NCAA: A Basketball Memoir.

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Not only did Judge Arnoni find the new spot and assist with the facility’s design, he also acted as project manager. While former District Court Judge Rob Wyda (now deceased) wanted to move the location of the court for many years, Judge Arnoni abided by his wishes and saw the relocation through.

“I’m sure Judge Wy d a w o u l d The new office while under construction be proud,” said Judge Arnoni.

Not only is the facility larger, it also provides for improved technology and security, and is overall a more suitable working environment for the judge and his staff. The new location is expected to serve the District Court well for many years to come. n Courtroom Waiting room

Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Winter Wonderful

Give the Gift of Theater This Holiday Season

Andrew Seay, Managing Director, Little Lake Theatre

With the holiday season approaching, everyone is looking for that special gift, whether it’s for a family member who’s impossible to shop for, for the person who already has everything, or your in-laws. Solve your dilemma! Buy a gift certificate for an evening of theater for your family member, friend, or colleague and give the magic of live theater.

Theater makes a great holiday gift, especially in these busy times. Imagine an evening with friends or family, without the distraction of screens (no smartphones or iPads!), in an environment where anything can happen. Unlike TV or movies, where the story is presented on a flat screen and is the same every time, no two theater performances are alike. No matter what happens on stage, the show must go on! Plus, theater sparks creativity in children (of all ages) and inspires the imagination. Who knows? Your gift could change someone’s life!

Support local theater! See you at the Lake! n Little Lake Theatre offers gift certificates for any denomination,, for specific shows, or entire season subscriptions. Customize your gift certificate based on your preferences, and offer suggestions on what shows might be perfect for whomever is lucky enough to be your friend!

Call Little Lake Theatre at 724-745-6300 or visit www.littlelake.org.

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LITTLE LAKE THEATRE COMPANY UPCOMING SHOW

A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE MUSICAL

Book by Joseph Robinette, Music and lyrics by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul November 23-25, November 29 - December 2, December 6-9, & 13-16 9-year-old Ralphie Parker is on the quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts— an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.

Rebuffed at every turn with a similar echoing response (“You’ll shoot your eye out!”), Ralphie schemes to achieve his desperate desire for the coveted BB gun. Join us for this beloved holiday musical, based on the movie classic!

Recommended for ages 5+

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Winter Wonderful

Extraordinary Gifting

Looking for a gift that stands out from the rest? Rather than heading to a big box store, consider a trip to J.J. Gillespie in McMurray. Established in 1832, the art gallery is the oldest in the United States and continues a tradition of fine quality European and American oil paintings, restoration, and framing. John Jones Gillespie, the gallery’s founder, made connections with leading art dealers in New York and Europe to bring some of the finest art in the world to Pittsburgh, inspiring many great local art collections.

Current Whether personal or purchased, owner and framing can help draw attention to USC resident any piece of art.

Sandra Castro, who purchased the gallery in 1998, continues the tradition of inspiring art lovers to start their own private collections by providing a comfortable environment and an attentive staff. “We’re not stuffy,” Sandra commented. To cover a breadth of options, “We display quality art with a broad range of styles, subjects, and prices from many different artists,” said Sandra.

Sandra explained that her in-house design team works with each customer to get a feel for what he or she wants, all the while working within a budget. “We provide a level of quality service that can be hard to find anymore,” she said. The gallery also provides framing and restoration services, where all work is done in the gallery. “We have professionals onsite who do our framing and restoration. Nothing gets sent out,” said Sandra.

Whether it’s custom framing for a treasured memento, restoration of a piece of art that’s been passed down for generations, or the purchase of a new piece, visit J.J. Gillespie and move from the ordinary to the extraordinary! n

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Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Winter Wonderful Luminaria

Lighting the way to a historical and USC tradition Mark Collins Have you ever driven through the various neighborhoods of Upper St. Clair on Christmas Eve to see the streets and driveways lit up by hundreds of softly glowing candles? These Luminaria, simply made from small candles placed in brown paper bags and weighted with sand, are part of a Christmas holiday tradition dating back more than 300 years.

Spanish merchants, inspired by Chinese lanterns, designed Luminaria or farolitas and made them popular in New Spain.

To this day, Luminaria displays decorate streets, parks, and homes in New Mexico, especially the cities of Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Luminaria or “festival light” also refers to the small bonfires which are lit, one per night during the nine days of Las Posadas, which ends on Christmas Eve. Observed mainly in Mexico and Guatemala, the 16th-century festival of Las Posadas celebrates the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. In the reenactment, people process, guided by each night’s bonfire, to pray at a Nativity scene.

However the word and the tradition of Luminaria as a “little lantern” (the literal meaning of farolita) has spread gradually to other communities nationwide, including our own Township of Upper St. Clair, and it has become a long standing tradition.

The Luminaria program in Upper St. Clair is organized as a fundraiser by the USC Band Parents Association and benefits all USC music department students. This year, the band parents and students will deliver the kits to residents on Saturday, December 1. Additional kits can be purchased (while supplies last) on December 1 in the parking lot behind the Township offices on McLaughlin Run Road.

Over the years, many local residents, churches, and homeowner associations have participated in this tradition of lighting Luminaria as a symbol of warmth, peace, and friendliness. One resident notes, “My parents would drive through USC neighborhoods so that we could see the Luminaria. I remember with great fondness that Christmas Eve tradition.” Another writes, “We always made the Luminaria part of our annual family Christmas tradition. The kids would assemble the Luminaria and then we would all go outside to light the candles at sunset.”

If you’ve not yet participated in Luminaria, consider becoming part of the tradition this year. If Luminaria are already part of your family tradition, then welcome back and, perhaps, help spread this tradition to your families, friends, and neighbors by purchasing kits for them. It would be a beautiful sight to light up the entire USC community on Christmas Eve this year! n

To order your Luminaria kit, including 12 candles, bags, and sand, which is delivered to your door, visit the USC band parents’ website at www.uscbpa.org and click on the “Order Luminaria” link to order online.

Paypal or credit cards are accepted for payment. Alternatively, complete and mail the order form found below with your payment. Discounts are

available for large orders. In addition, a limited number of kits will be available for purchase on Saturday, December 1 in the parking lot behind the Township offices on McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Paula Schmeck Myers at bpaluminaria@gmail.com or call 412-914-2046.

2018 Luminaria Kit Order Form Name: ________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________________________ State:___________________Zip: __________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________ Total enclosed: $________________________________________________ Price of Kit: $15/kit; or 2 kits/$25. Discounts available for large orders.

Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association

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Mail to: USC Band Parents Association 1791 Robson Drive Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Winter Wonderful The Tale of Two Tannenbaums Mary Lynne Spazok

When it comes to seasonal décor, who’s to say what’s right or wrong? Centuries ago, early European Druids (ancient mystics of the forest) confined to a dreary sympathetic life over the winter solstice, hung evergreen boughs over doors and windows to ward off witches, deter death, and ensure fertility.

Indoors, sprigs of holly and mistletoe were considered magical because their green color never faded. Today, that magic endures through the holiday beauty and aroma of fresh greenery, first and foremost, the Christmas tree.

The Tale of Two Tannenbaums begins with Mary and Jerry Raupp, married for 47 years, residing in Pennsylvania for a lifetime. At their home in Upper St. Clair, Thanksgiving and Christmas is celebrated in monumental grandeur. Pre-holiday, Jerry proclaims, “I am not doing the “too-tall tree” again this year; too much work!” After rowdy resistance from the kids and grandkids, Black Friday quickly goes green in their house with the debut of a fresh 300-pound, 14-foot Fraser fir.

The first step is retrieving the vast array of decorations and lights from numerous “in house” storage areas. Flip top boxes are emptied of 3000 multi-color lights, 2000 ornaments, and an industrial power cord. Next, Jerry postures the fir in a heavy-duty stand (adding two gallons of water daily) and layers the lights. Mary lovingly reveals each ornament from its packaging.

While each tree tells a different story, the collection of ornaments brings memories.

A Christopher Radko design “Happy New Year 2000 Times Square” is a Mary favorite. Fashioned in Europe, the ornament is eight inches high, hand crafted from mouth-blown tempered glass lined with A lovely decorated tree sterling silver. Applied artisan gilding includes vibrant coloration followed by a dusting of glitter.

Jerry is keen on his authenticated “Kugel.” In 17th-century England, the glass “witch ball” was hung year-round in windows and doors to ward off occultists who were thought to be repulsed by round shapes. On the brighter side, this shiny silver sphere reflected welcome bursts of sunlight and the beauty of flickering candle flames. Germany 1840-embossed brass caps with rings were added, thus fashioning the first engineered Christmas tree ornament, the Kugel.

The first year of marriage for Mary and Jerry was bittersweet.

Joyful as the holidays can be, it was also a time of melancholy.

You see, Mary’s brother, Bill, enlisted in the U.S. Army. Patriotic, their tree that year stood proud until Bill’s safe return the following March. Ever since, a splendid Fraser is chosen and continues to reflect their life’s challenges and triumphs.

The big brother to the Raupp’s Fraser is the 75-foot Pennsylvania “Penn State” Norway spruce that made its way to

Rockefeller Center in November 2017 to become the most celebrated Christmas tree in the world. First noticed in 2011

by Rockefeller Center’s head gardener Erik Pauze (while enroute to a State College football game), he stopped to knock on the door of the property owner. Straight away, Erik proposed Jerry and Mary Raupp a future starring role for this gigantic specimen. After a six-year period of Pauze’s prudent arboriculture’s management, the 80-year-old titan had come of age. Giant in stature and sentiment (senior years of its life cycle), the Norway was proudly donated.

A rotund 50 feet in diameter, and tall and straight and weighing in at just over 12 tons, the fir was loaded on a 115-foot flatbed, arriving to midtown Manhattan’s 30 Rockefeller Plaza on November 11. Taking one hour to erect the spruce by crane with steel cables and two days for the scaffolding to be built, engineers, carpenters, gardeners, and three electricians Rockefeller tree, 2017

Cont. on page 22

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Winter Wonderful The Tale of Two Tannenbaums Cont. from page 21

orchestrated the colossal undertaking. With more than 50,000 energy-efficient multi-colored LED lights (five miles of wire), 363 eco-friendly solar panels atop Rockefeller Center provide the energy. Its tree topper, a Swarovski star, is 9.5 feet in diameter, 1.5 feet deep, and adorned with 25,000 crystals and one million facets.

That magical, twinkling effect is no easy task. Computer software is the secret!

Just before sunrise on day one, a dreamlike tranquility enveloped Rockefeller Center. With few tourists, Pauze embarked to oversee the city’s superstar. Pauze asserts, “At 5 a.m., there’s lots to do! You got the tree. You got the angels. Now you have to make sure the poinsettias are in place. You got to make Christmas look good! With even the slightest rustling of branches, a shower of needles can rain down.” That’s when his backpack blower comes in handy!

On January 7 of each year, this American icon takes repurposing to a whole new level. Offsite, the tree is milled into useful kiln-dried lumber benefitting Handmade ornaments Habitat for Humanity. Interestingly, the recycled wood is stamped with the words “Rockefeller Center Tree” and the corresponding year.

Pennsylvania trees include the Fraser, Douglas, Colorado blue spruce, balsam, Scotch pine, and Eastern white. Planted from seedlings, these noble firs are cultivated and then harvested by farmers on more than 1400 family farms.

Behind Oregon, Pennsylvania is the second leading tree-producing state in the U.S. Sales contribute an average annual revenue of $35,400,000. Keystone state conifers are a renewable, recyclable resource, while artificial trees often contain non-biodegradable plastics and possible metal toxins, including lead.

Live trees absorb carbon dioxide and other toxic vapors, hence deterring any thought of an earth-warming “greenhouse effect.” One acre produces purified oxygen for 18 humans, while an array of ground cover affords pollen for An ornament to honor our military native bees and other pollinators.

Decaying stumps harbor insects that are food for nesting birds. Overall, choosing a fresh “green” tree is certainly wildlife friendly.

As the frosty weather of December evolves, holiday decorating can be energizing—a time to deck the halls, sing, and be merry. No matter the size or shape, make your Christmas tree more than a chore this year. Make it a treasured Tannenbaum tradition! n Habitat recycle stamp

Christmas Tree Recycling in USC At the onset of the New Year (December 26, 2018—January 31, 2019), transport your undecorated (no lights or ornaments), unbagged evergreen to the USC Public Works empty lot across from the Public Works building at McLaughlin Run Road a n d Tr u x t o n D r i v e .

Mulch from leaves and trees, piled high in Boyce Mayview Park from the entrance at Boyce Road (near Ardolino’s Pizza), is free to USC Township residents. All other piles are for Township use only. n Curbside for trash pickup is not a sustainable choice for your discarded tree 22

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Visit the Township website at www.twpusc.org and USC Cable 7 for recycling updates. Call 412-831-9000, extension 271, for more information.

Winter Wonderful Fir or Faux 4 U? Mary Lynne Spazok

What does your Christmas tree say about you? Just C9, theme, bubble, candle, mini, commercial, clear, white, color, like gift-giving unveils insights into a relationship, your Christmas blinking, or sparkling—lighting choices are electrifying. Banish decor brings to light a distinct persona. If just before boring and change it up; better yet, mix and match!

Thanksgiving you’re itching to dust off the tinsel (tinsel was once After illumination, start at the top! If you favor the star tree banned by the government because early on it contained lead) topper you think of yourself as stellar—one who steps up to and twinkling LEDs, then you’re likely to be in touch with your take a strong leadership role and has a staunch moral compass. inner child. Memories of Christmas past illuminate our hearts. Equally popular, an Angel reveals a person with a strong spiriWhether you prefer faux, a garden fresh variety from a “pop up” tual side who has a kind soul and a charitable heart. Humble or lot, or fell your fir, ’tis the season! opulent, tree toppers are always the crowning glory.

When it comes to choosing the perfect Next, it’s the adornment of shimmering pine, space, placement, and budget are all ornamentation. The root word “ornament” in play. If you oppose holiday commeris defined as an accessory used to beautify, cialization, perhaps Charlie Brown-chic enrich, or improve the appearance or general is more your style. Charlie Brown’s tree is effect of an object. Hence, decorating bravura not ostentatious by any measure, but more is personal. Flamboyant helter-skelter ena humble icon of hope, the true meaning ergy equates to hanging every last light and of Christmas. Those who choose artificial decoration you own, expressing fervid indeare practical, long-term planners, budgetpendence. Living over-the-top, you don’t care oriented, and organized. The allure of a what others think. This fun, carefree eclectic faux Christmas tree is obvious: reusable, flair is sometimes known as “everything Bird feeder with wreath dependably lush, and symmetrical. In but the kitchen sink.” If, however, the best opposition, mess-and maintenance-free two words to describe you are “content and convenience has an environmental penalty. secure,” you embrace charming, historicallyArtificial trees are made from materials proven ornaments of a traditionalist. The such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and ever green eco-conscious personality prefers metal. Once used to its maximum life handcrafted, earthy, and low key. Whatever expectancy (when you tire of it), they the motif, love overflows and joy abounds generally end up in landfills. In contrast, in a home that is richly blessed with family emergent Christmas trees provide habitat and friends. for wildlife and prevent erosion of rugExactly, what is the post-holiday value ged, often unusable terrain. Entrenched in of a fresh fir? Communities, including the USC’s community of sustainable awareness, Township of Upper St. Clair, chip and re“Choosing a real tree is the environmencycle back conifers to Mother Earth. Merits tally-sound choice. What could be more of intact trees include wind barriers, erosion natural?” said Bob Scott, of the National barriers, and pond sinking for aquatic habitaChristmas Tree Association. Tom McNabb tion. Did you know that intact artificial trees Pole suet feeder with wreath of Yule Tree Farms affirms, “Real trees are can be donated to various charitable groups, an important oxygen-producing conservation crop.” So, if you schools, pet rescues, and other organizations? How about securrevere nature, then fresh greenery is for you. ing it in a weighted container for your back deck or porch? Plug Are you grandiose or symmetrical? An extra big tree, perhaps into a proper timer for a more distanced alfresco ambiance. “too big,” is simply an expression of a flamboyant character.

You can upcycle other faux greenery, as well, including Your ambitious persona confirms that you can, in fact, make it wreaths and swags. Place a wreath on an outdoor bird feeder. work no matter what. You dream big and are not afraid of fail- It will protect the seeds from moisture and the birds from high ure. However, if perfection is your mantra, choose symmetrical. winds. Secure a wreath to a pole along with a suet feeder to You are a visual learner; you command structure and thrive in help birds survive the frigid months. Suet replenishes depleted venues of discipline and order. No decision is made lightly when stores of nutrients vital for the increased energy demands of it comes to deliberate, strategic embellishment. spring nesting.

Add a touch of magic and warmth with a dazzling array of So, for you, is it fir or faux? Ultilights. The first known electrically-illuminated Christmas tree mately, the Christmas tree you choose was the creation of Edward H. Johnson, an associate of inventor is a reflection of your world view. In A Thomas Edison. Are you white, multi, theme, or none? Choosing Charlie Brown Christmas (1965, short “none” equates to an “off-the-grid” personality. Into glitzy? You film/comedy), Charlie Brown stated, are fearless! Big, bright, and bold is an extension of your gregari- “... even a small, unassuming tree is one ous personality; your outdoor star-studded display is cosmos that needs me: One with the potential to worthy. Aw, the understated minimalist—monochrome in design become something beautiful, magical, and favors discreet radiance. Whether LED, incandescent, C7, and unexpected.” n

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SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

Amy L. Billerbeck President 412-833-2712 2019*

Patrick A. Hewitt 412-831-0178 2019*

Barbara L. Bolas Vice President 412-833-9841 2019*

Jennifer L. Bowen 412-660-5846 2021*

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

Angela B. Petersen 412-833-4873 2019*

http://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us

Phillip J. Elias 412-257-1198 2019*

Dr. Daphna Gans 412-851-18250 2021*

The 2018–2019 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is scheduled for July.

Dante R. Plutko, Jr. 412-389-5187 *Date indicates expiration of term.

2021*

Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices

The required annual notices to parents of children who reside in the Upper St. Clair School District are available online.

Visit the District website at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and federal notices and information.

School District Central Office Administration

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

Administrator

Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Scott Burchill Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum Director of Business and Finance and Professional Development

Ray Carson Director of Human Resources

Secretary/Email Address Extension

Dr. John Rozzo............................................ Mary Ann Stabile.............................2201 Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Assistant/Deputy Superintendent dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Berrott.................................................. rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us..................2059 Director of Technology Sean Bryson................................................ sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.................. 2560 Chief of School Police Dr. Judy Bulazo.......................................... jbulazo@uscsd.k12.pa.us...................2218 Director of Curriculum and Professional Development Scott Burchill.............................................. Dawn Machi.....................................2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Carson, Jr............................................. rcarson@uscsd.k12.pa.us...................2053 Director of Human Resources Melissa Garvin............................................ Cheryl Ellison...................................2116 Asst. Director of Student Support Services cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Sheila Gorgonio.......................................... sgornonio@uscsd.k12.pa.us..............2826 Director of Advancement Jonn Mansfield............................................. jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us.............. 3450 Director of Transportation Amy Pfender............................................... Terri Lott...........................................2283 Director of Student Support Services tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us Tina Vojtko................................................. tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us...................2215 Communications Specialist Bradley Wilson .......................................... bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.................3318 Supervisor of Customized and Online Learning School District Building Administration

Melissa Garvin Asst. Director of Student Support Services

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Sheila Gorgonio Director of Advancement

Amy Pfender Director of Student Support Services

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Bradley Wilson Supervisor of Customized and Online Learning

Winter 2018

Dr. Lou Angelo............................... High School Principal Dr. Timothy Wagner ..................... High School Associate Principal for

Program Planning and Innovation Daniel Beck.................................... High School Assistant Principal Dan Zelenski.................................. High School Assistant Principal Joseph DeMar ................................ Fort Couch Middle School Principal Erin Peterson.................................. Fort Couch Assistant Principal Daniel O’Rourke............................ Boyce Middle School Principal Christine Mussomeli...................... Boyce Middle School Assistant Principal Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux... Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller.......................................Eisenhower Elementary School Principal/

Supervisor of Elementary Education Dr. Claire Miller............................. Streams Elementary School Principal

SD

Safety First

Armed Police Added to All USC Schools This past August, the Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors approved measures to provide an armed school police officer in each of its six schools. The school police force increased from three in the 2017–18 school year to six full-time police officers, as well as a 12-month and a ten-month school security officer for the 2018–19 school year.

“The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority,” said board president Amy Billerbeck. “Those words are not merely a slogan; we live by them. Safety and security is one of the five pillars of our strategic plan, and we have worked diligently across multiple fronts to create the safest possible environment.

Many of us have children who attend Upper St. Clair schools. We live here, too. This is our community, and we all have a vested interest in keeping it secure.”

During the transition period for hiring and training officers, the District utilized the services of the Allegheny County Police Department to provide an armed police presence on the first day of school.

The District’s school police officers are all Act 120 certified.

Act 120 is known as the Municipal Police Officers’ training academy, a program that gives trainees the skills they need to become successful police officers. The program includes a 919hour curriculum, plus an additional 27 hours of testing.

In May, the District welcomed a new chief of school police, Sean Bryson, who was a 20-year member of the Arlington County Police Department in Virginia and a USCHS graduate. Upon his arrival, Chief Bryson was tasked with conducting a needs assessment of the District’s current safety and security practices, including staffing, training, and expertise. “Providing an armed, highly-trained school police force is widely considered best practices in school safety and security,” said Chief Bryson. “We are fortunate to be building a staff with significant experience and specialized training in law enforcement.”

These new safety measures follow a continuum of enhancements that have been underway as part of the District’s five-year 2015–2020 strategic plan. “Our District has committed significant resources to help ensure that we are following best practices in the area of school safety,” said Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools. “It is the most important of the five focus areas of our District’s strategic plan.”

In addition to bolstering the District’s school police force, this past spring the school board approved funding to increase student support services, including a secondary school counselor and a school psychologist. “This increase in staffing is designed to better support students’ social and emotional well-being, as well as to enhance student relationships and connectivity to school,” said Amy Pfender, the District’s director of student support services.

The District’s elementary and middle schools embrace the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, which is designed to improve peer relations and increase connections among students, staff members, and one another.

Middle school students, grades five through eight, participate in a designated guidance class as part of their regular class schedule. School counselors provide information and instruction on a variety of developmentally-appropriate topics, including online safety, social media, study skills, appropriate online behavior, conflict resolution, responsible decision-making, and drug and alcohol prevention.

The high school has taken a proactive approach to creating a positive school climate. High school students have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their classmates through their involvement in the Natural Helpers, Peer Mentor, Peer Tutoring, Partners in Physical Education, Partners in SHOP, SMART Desk, and Leadership Academy programs.

The District has a video security system that includes 280 cameras across its six campuses. The system is accessible by District administrators, principals, and school police, as well as the Township police and fire department. Beginning with the 2018–19 school year, all District buses were equipped with audio/video surveillance.

All six schools are now equipped with secure entrances, as well as a visitor management system that quickly screens visitors against the registered sex offender databases in all 50 states. In addition, as required by law, all school, classroom, and extracurricular staff and volunteers complete child abuse and criminal history clearances.

The District’s phone system has a 911 notification feature that pinpoints the call to the exact location in the building and alerts all District administrators, school police, and the building’s emergency team. In addition, enhancements have been made to the paging systems in the schools, which assist in communicating emergency announcements to staff and students. This upcoming school year, the District is researching improvements to various communication systems, which include two-way radios, cellular communications, and backup/diverse phone communication lines.

The USC PTC will host its semiannual Open Mic at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28 in the Boyce Middle School theater. The event will focus on safety and security. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, accompanied by a team of administrators, will be on hand to discuss many of the District’s safety initiatives, including introducing the District’s school police officers. Significant dialogue occurs among attendees and District representatives. n The next Open Mic is scheduled for spring 2019.

Check the District website for details.

Kindergarten Registration 2019–2020 The dates for kindergarten registration for the 2019–20 school year are: • Baker: Wednesday, March 20 and Thursday, April 4 • Eisenhower: Thursday, March 21 and Tuesday, April 2 • Streams: Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, April 3

Parents will be able to sign up for a time frame closer to the date for registration. Additional information about Kindergarten registration will be available on the Upper St. Clair School District website (www.uscsd.k12.pa.us) in early 2019. n Winter 2018

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SDUpper St. Clair Halls of Fame 2018 Welcomes Ten Nine alumni and one retired administrator were selected for induction into the 2018 Upper St. Clair High Schools Halls of Fame.

This year’s class was honored at the annual induction ceremony on October 12. After celebrating during an informal dinner in the high school’s nutrition center, the inductees were recognized at the football game where USC took on Moon.

The 2018 Halls of Fame inductees include:

Academics

Arts

Academics John Bornyas (Retired administrator) Melissa Lentz (2000) Karen Pillar (1988) Jean Kogut Raazi (1990) Shailesh Rao (1989) Glenn Rice (1974) Arts Susan Castriota (1975) Chuck Rea (1995)

John Bornyas

Melissa Lentz

Karen Pillar

Jean Kogut Raazi

Shailesh Rao

Glenn Rice

Athletics Jerry Berteotti (1989) Austin Wilding (2012)

Athletics

Founded in 2000, the Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame honors those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate, or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. (Staff member position or year of high school graduation is shown above, in parenthesis.) n

Susan Castriota

Jerry Berteotti

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Chuck Rea

Austin Wilding

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SD

Inaugural 5 Quarter—USC Alumni th

Upper St. Clair School District hosted its first-ever 5th Quarter event for

all USC alumni at the conclusion of the varsity football game against Moon on Friday, October 12.

An opportunity for alumni from all classes to come together, catch up, and enjoy food catered

by Atria’s, this begins a new tradition in Upper St. Clair. As the weather turned colder, more than 70 alumni and their guests attended the event at Gilfillan Farm.

“It was a great experience for our alumni to see the historic Gilfillan Farm, some for the first time,” said Gordon Mathews, high school counselor and connect2USCSD coordinator. “We are grateful to the Upper St. Clair Historical Society and Atria’s for their generous contributions that made this event possible.”

The event was intended to engage USC alumni and raise awareness of the District’s alumni initiative and online community, connect2USCSD. To date, more than 1700 USC alumni have joined. The District will continue its efforts to engage with its graduates, with the ultimate goal of bringing more alumni into the District’s classrooms to collectively share their expertise with students.

This past summer and fall, the classes of 1967, 1968, 1978, and 1988 celebrated their reunions. Some classes have begun partnering with SHOP@USC to assist them in creating name tags, decorations, and signs for their reunion events.

In addition, the class of 1967, 1968, and 1988 toured the high school during their reunion weekends. n If your graduating class is interested in these events or opportunities, contact Gordon Mathews at gmathews@uscsd.k12.pa.us. In addition, contact Gordon if you are interested in becoming involved in the alumni initiative.

Connect with us at connect2USCSD.com.

Outstanding Educator

Upper St. Clair High School teacher Ben Edwards was selected for the Outstanding Educator Award from the University of Chicago. The Office of College Admissions grants the Outstanding Educator Award to teachers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the education and personal development of their students.

Ben Edwards “ E a c h y e a r, w e i n v i t e entering first-year students to nominate an educator who has influenced them, challenged them, or helped them along the path toward intellectual growth,” said James Nondorf, dean of admissions and financial aid at the

University of Chicago. “We receive letters back from hundreds of students, inspired by teachers who have changed the course of their lives, who taught them to re-imagine texts, to delve deeper into problem-solving, and to think beyond the borders of the classroom in the pursuit of their own education.”

Ben was nominated for the Outstanding Educator Award by Spencer Miller, USCHS Class of 2018. This marks the second time that Ben has received this honor. “The reality of teaching is that we do the best we can and then let life take over,” said Ben. “For someone to remember us after that transition is humbling.”

Ben Edwards has been a member of the high school’s social studies faculty since 2011 and has coached its forensics team since 2001. He teaches International Baccalaureate History of the Americas and Advanced Placement/IB Economics. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Ben holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in social studies education. He resides in Bethel Park with his wife, Sarah, and their daughter, Lily. n Winter 2018

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SD

Community Pep Rally Early in the school year, hundreds of USC High School student-athletes gathered at the school’s stadium for the second annual community pep rally. New this year, Dr. Kevin Deitrick, director of athletics, presented the USC Academic Panther Cup to the varsity team that achieved the highest GPA during the 2017–18 academic year. This year’s winner was the girls’ golf team, with an average GPA of 3.85.

The event included a variety of friendly competitions among the school’s 15 fall varsity sports teams: girls’ and boys’ cross country, golf, and soccer; football; girls’ volleyball; girls’ tennis; field hockey; cheerleading; dance; hip-hop; rowing; and hockey.

Student-athletes participated in the limbo, tug-of-war, a field goal kicking contest, and a pie-eating contest. In addition to friendly team competitions, the event featured performances by the USCHS marching band, as well as the cheerleading, hip-hop, and dance teams. n

Photos by Terry Kish 28

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SD

Coach Render Reaches Milestone Dr. Kevin Deitrick, USC Athletic Director

History was made this past August, when Coach Jim Render won his 400th career football game, a milestone that only 28 other coaches in high school football have achieved. The victory came on August 31 before a packed crowd of community members, family, and former players, when Upper St. Clair defeated Peters Township, 16–14.

The winningest coach in WPIAL football history, Coach Render’s head coaching career began in 1970 at Carrollton, Ohio. His next stop, which lasted for seven years, was in Uniontown. The final year at these two schools was a championship season for Coach Render and his teams.

In 1979, Jim moved to Upper St. Clair to coach the Panthers, where championship seasons have come to be expected.

Over the past 39 years, USC has won 22 conference championships, played for the WPIAL championUpper St. Clair head ship title 11 times, and has had five WPIAL wins. Jim’s USC team is four-for-four in state semi-final games, with football coach Jim Render a PIAA championship that included Pennsylvania’s first-ever 15–0 record in 1989, and a 16–0 state championship in 2006. Runner-up honors were earned in 1992 and 1997.

Jim and his teams have won numerous conference, district, and state honors. Jim served as assistant coach in the BIG 33 game in 1990 and as that team’s head coach in 1993. Both were Pennsylvania victories. In 2003, he was the West Coach for the Pennsylvania East-West All-Star Game.

Jim was inducted into both the Pennsylvania Football Coaches Scholastic Hall of Fame (1998) and the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame (2005).

During the summer of 2013, Jim was honored by Lou Holtz and the Upper Ohio Valley Hall of Fame. Introduced by East Liverpool, Ohio, icon and longtime friend Frank C. Dawson, Jim was presented a Lifetime Achievement award by Coach Holtz.

Jim and his wife, Pam, are the proud parents of two sons, J.T. and Eric, and have four grandchildren.

Congratulations Coach Render on your milestone accomplishment. The Upper St. Clair community is fortunate to call you its coach for the past 39 Coach Render, Coach Render, with his wife, Pam, being recognized for his 400th win at the Pittsburgh years! n 1989–1990 USCHS Steelers verses Kansas City Chiefs home game this past September

yearbook photo

Pantheon Choir to Perform at Carnegie Hall

The USCHS Pantheon Choir, under the direction of high school choral director Lorraine Milovac, has been invited

by Mansfield University director of choral activities Dr. Peggy Dettwiler to participate in Performing Arts Educators 13th annual choir invitational. Titled “Every Life Shall Be a Song: A Choral Concert featuring the Works of Women Composers and Poets,” the performance will be held in the Stern Auditorium, Carnegie Hall in New York City on Sunday, January 20 at 2 p.m.

The Pantheon Choir is one of eight high school choirs selected to sing 15-minute solo spots in a concert that will conclude with a combined choir grand finale, with the awardwinning Mansfield University Concert Choir serving as the core group. The massed choir will be accompanied by piano, brass, and percussion to perform composer Gwyneth Walker’s “Every Life Shall Be a Song” and “How Can I Keep From Singing?” In addition to Walker being present for the performance, USCHS Pantheon Choir a prominent woman on the world stage will read profound statements between solo choir performances.

Contact Lorraine Milovac at lmilovac@uscsd.k12.pa.us or choral booster The Pantheon Choir has received many invitations to sing president Rachel Lowden at lowdenr@verizon.net for more information. at Carnegie Hall, but none as special as this one. Tickets will For a list of other School District musical performances between now and the end of the year, see page 34. be available to the public for the concert. n

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T HEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? SD THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEY DID WHAT?THEY DID WHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEY DID WHAT?THEY DID WHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHATTHEY ?THEYDIDWHAT? DID THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHATWHAT ??THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? THEYDIDWHAT?THEYDIDWHAT? Beck Named to PA Board Position The Pennsylvania Principals Association recently named Daniel Beck, high school assistant principal, to its newly established Assistant Principal at Large board position.

In his new role, Dan will represent the perspective of assistant principals as related to the work of an educational leader in today’s schools, serve as a key practitioner’s voice on the board relating to the role of assistant principal, and provide information and input related to the needs and concerns of assistant principals. “He brings to the association a passion for reaching those in the assistant principal position and his past experience and Dan Beck ideas for recruiting and retaining fellow assistant principals,” said Paul M. Healey, PhD, executive director of the Pennsylvania Principals Association.

Dan joined the USC High School leadership staff in 2013.

Previously, he taught secondary English in the Greensburg Salem School District and the Berlin Brothers Valley School District. He holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Duquesne University, a master’s of education from the University of Pittsburgh, and is currently a doctoral and Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility candidate at Duquesne University.

The Assistant Principal at Large is one of two newly established positions on the association’s board; the other being the Diversity at Large position. Both positions will be for two-year terms.

Middle School Teachers Present at Statewide Conference A team of District middle school teachers recently presented a workshop titled “Providing Clear Reporting of Student Growth: One District’s Approach,” at the Pennsylvania Association of Middle Level Education (PAMLE) Summer Institute and Leadership Academy. The annual event was held this past July at Pennsylvania State University.

The team of teachers included Andy Lucas, middle school math curriculum leader and seventh grade pre-algebra teacher; Josh Tobin, middle school social studies curriculum leader and seventh grade social studies teacher; Caren Falascino, middle school science curriculum leader and eighth grade science teacher; and Susan Fleckenstein, gifted and math teacher.

Throughout the presentation, the teachers shared how the District’s middle school continuous progress report card is structured to report both student growth in academic knowledge, daily performance, and habits of learning.

PAMLE is a statewide organization that represents and supports professionals, parents, and others interested in the educational and developmental needs of youth, ages ten to 15.

Left to right: Andy Lucas, Josh Tobin, Caren Falascino, Susan Fleckenstein

National Merit Scholarship Program Four USCHS seniors—Reese Benonis, Samuel Ding, Serena Luo, and Grace Wagner—were named semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship competition. Additionally, 16 USCHS seniors were recognized as commended students, including Brooke Christiansen, Nicholas Devlin, Miles Friedman, Mattigan Fultineer, Arushi Khaitan, Jacqueline LeKachman, Mallika Matharu, Caroline McDonough, Anh-Duy Nguyen, Ritik Parmar, Neha Patel, Hridhay Reddy, Vikram Reddy, Tushar Roy, Lauren Wholey, and Aochen Zhang.

Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Students enter the program by taking the PSAT—the National Merit Scholarship qualifying test—during the fall of their junior year. Of the nearly 1.6 million entrants who took the October 2017 test, the top one percent qualify as semifinalists and the top three percent qualified as commended students.

“These 20 students have distinguished themselves as some of our nation’s most promising high school students,” said Dr. Louis Angelo, USCHS Reese Benonis Samuel Ding Serena Luo Grace Wagner principal. “We are very proud of their academic accomplishments.”

Basketball Players Reach National Semifinals Boyce students Meredith Huzjak, Rylee Kalocay, and Olivia Terlecki are members of the Western Pennsylvania Bruins AAU basketball team that finished third in the national Run for the Roses Rising Stars tournament, which was held this past July at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.

The team of fifth graders was undefeated in the tournament going into the semifinals, where they lost to a team from Indiana. Rylee was named to the Roses Rising Stars Fifth Grade All-Tournament Team for her performance. She scored more than 20 points in multiple games and was the leading rebounder.

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Winter 2018

USC Team Wins AI Competition Award This past July, Streams and Baker Elementary students Ava Liu, Luke An, Sam An, Cynthia Shen, and Aaron Jiang won the Multimedia Excellence Award for Outstanding Visual Design at World Artificial Intelligence Competition for Youth (WAICY) 2018, sponsored by Carnegie Mellon University and WholeRen Group.

The week of workshops and final competition provided students with the opportunity to learn about artificial intelligence programming. Using WholeRen’s “AI-In-A-Box,” a toolkit developed with input from CMU alumni and faculty, each team designed and executed projects that answered a simple question: How can AI change our lives?

One hundred thirty students between the ages of four and 18 from as far away as China, Sweden, and England, competed in person on 30 teams. An additional 20 teams competed remotely from around the world. The USC team was one of five teams that was recognized for its performance in the competition.

Left to right: Aaron Jiang, Luke An, Ava Liu, Cynthia Shen, Samuel An

See the link for the competition on CMU’s Twitter page: https://twitter.com/SCSatCMU/ status/1002182026601095168

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PawPrints

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

Eisenhower

Council Suzanne Wynne, President The Parent Teacher Council is honored to continue its service to our community of parents in Upper St. Clair. We are fortunate to live in a community so dedicated to family and quality education. The more I interact with our District’s teachers and administrative staff, the more I realize how safe and supported my children are because of their dedication. Fred Rogers spoke to this when he said, “Anyone who has ever been able to sustain good work has had at least one person—and often many—who believed in him or her. We just don’t get to be competent human beings without a lot of different investments from others.”

It is in this spirit that the PTC works with you to provide a variety of District-wide programs.

• Communication: The PTC facilitates communication between parents and staff by hosting monthly meetings with Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools, where parents can come and learn about what’s happening in each school and about the District overall.

This year, we’ve added an evening meeting on Wednesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. in the Boyce School theater. We also host two Open Mics where families and community members engage with Dr. Rozzo and his team to talk, listen, and receive feedback about issues and concerns surrounding our schools and children. The first Open Mic, which focuses on school safety, is scheduled for Wednesday, November 28 at 7 p.m. in the Boyce Middle School theater.

The next Open Mic will take place this coming spring. The PTC also facilitates communication by printing a Districtwide student directory, available in both print format and mobile-app.

• Committees: The PTC works to enhance our children’s educational environment by managing the Scripps Spelling Bee and the Arts in USC competition. Our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), Partners in Education (PIE), Outreach,

Streams

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Science/Technology/Engineering/ Arts/Mathematics (STEAM), and USC Wellness committees provide programing to support the interests and well-being of students and parents, alike.

• Community: One of our most important roles is to support the ongoing work of the District’s six schools’ PTA, PTO, and PTSO organizations. These organizations are made up of volunteers who enrich our children’s school experience at the elementary, middle, and high schools each and every day.

For example, during the month of February, the PTC is facilitating a District-wide food drive for South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM). The PTC also supports our community by hosting an annual welcome dinner at the start of the school year, welcoming families who are new to the District.

On behalf of the PTC, I appreciate and welcome your feedback and look forward to continued dialogue as we work together to meet the needs of our community. If you would like to get involved, contact me at wynne.sl@gmail.com. Together, we will continue creating one of the best places to live… our home, our USC! USCHS PTSO Shannon Gallagher, President Upper St. Clair High School started out the school year in the midst of construction… and now that it’s in full swing, the students, faculty, and parents appear to be making it work! We’ve had an active fall with senior cruise, homecoming, and Coach Render’s 400th win (see article on page 29), and the next few months will be no exception.

Our musical students are wrapping up the fall musical and attending the honors ensemble in Orlando, Florida, this November. The spring musical auditions begin December 14, so be on the lookout for the notices regarding meetings.

Our Keystone testing begins the second week of January. Make sure your kids

Fort Couch

USCHS

are rested and prepared to maintain the stamina that standardized testing requires.

Our students are involved in organizing so many events, fundraisers, and support of their clubs that, more than ever, a parent’s time with the PTSO and PAC is vital.

These meetings are where communication between the community and administration thrives. You will also hear from our students as they let us know how they are making an impact within the school and community. Consider joining and attending our meetings. Your input is what makes it work and, in the end, benefits the kids.

Fort Couch PTSO Katy Loomis, President As USC looks to the winter months, opportunities abound to get involved at Fort Couch!

A favorite annual event, Reach Out will run December 10–21. As Connie Gibson, eighth grade math teacher and student council advisor, explains, “December can often be a hectic time of the year for people and schools. However, here at Fort Couch, we see joy, kindness, and caring hearts around each corner.” During Reach Out, students raise an outstanding amount of money by babysitting, cleaning, helping neighbors, caroling, and completing other volunteer activities. Last year students raised over $19,000! The money raised by Reach Out goes to a variety of charities, including Giant Eagle gift cards distributed to Upper St. Clair community members by the USC Police Department, MS Bike-a-Thon, Hope for Haiti, and an annually-changing student-selected charity. Principal Joe DeMar is “proud of our students for their kindness and generosity!”

Running parallel to Reach Out, PTSO sponsors Caught You Being Good, a week-long activity where students earn tickets for showing positive behavior. If a staff member at Fort Couch “catches” a student doing something positive, they give them a slip to submit for entrance into a daily raffle. Last, but not least, is the Cont. on page 32

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Pawprints...

Pawprints Cont. from page 31

Warm Winter Wishes staff appreciation, with a holiday-themed dessert and coffee bar. These three events provide wonderful opportunities for parents to get involved.

We welcome you to jump in and help out!

In January, the PTSO invites students to participate in the Scholastics Arts and Writing competition and spelling bee, while February brings the Valentine’s social and Valentine Gram sale. The student council, with our PTSO co-chairs, plan a wonderful night for the students, and PTSO is providing entertainment and food for all of the socials this year.

There is so much to look forward to at Fort Couch during these winter months!

Stay connected and get involved through the Fort Couch PTSO website, the morning announcements, “Headlines” on the Fort Couch webpage, FCPTSO Facebook, PTSO eAlerts, and the USC Weekly Recap.

The PTSO thanks you for your enthusiasm and support, and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Boyce PTO Jennifer Schnore, President We are off and running at Boyce Middle School! Hopefully all students and parents have found a happy routine by now. Of interest this winter is the Fall Spirit Night at Chick-Fil-A on November 15, Author’s Day, Revolutionary War Day, the Boyce spelling bee, and Chess Club, just to name a few. Our Outreach programs from fall and into winter include a used backpack drive, as well as a SHIM food drive. This winter, we will also hold two of our four staff appreciation luncheons.

What’s the best way to learn about the goings-on at Boyce? Attend the PTO meetings! Because the PTO is a 501(c) (3) organization, we must first review the budget and approve the previous meeting’s minutes. Fiscal responsibility and transparency are essential; however, the informative meetings, which we attempt to limit to one hour, mostly include things that are important and helpful to you as a parent of a middle schooler.

Notably, • A teacher representative briefly reports on what the teachers and students are doing, including information about teacher concerns and teacher-run activities and events.

• A school board member briefly reports 32

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

on what is happening District-wide.

• School principal Dan O’Rourke provides a brief presentation on a different school subject at each meeting. Examples include school’s position on homework, school safety, test scores, student mentoring, teacher training, and capital improvement in the classroom.

• Interesting guest speakers are included if the agenda allows. At the September meeting, school police Chief Sean Bryson attended to discuss school safety.

I strongly believe communication with parents, caregivers, students, and families is essential. We send out e-alerts as well as post events to the Boyce Bulletin, but the information given at the PTO meetings covers broader subjects, are more in-depth, and often result in dialogue between attendees and presenters. I believe these meetings are the best and most effcient way to stay informed. In short, if you want to know what’s going on at Boyce, attend the PTO meetings!

The remaining 2018–19 Boyce PTO Wednesday meetings will be held on November 14, January 9, March 13, April 10, and May 22. All meetings are in the Boyce LGI room at 9:30 a.m. If the morning meeting is bad timing for you, we are willing to move the time if we get majority consensus. Email me at jennifer_aitken@ yahoo.com if you’d like the meetings to be held at a different time of the day.

Additionally, I would love to hear about any possible guest speakers in our District or who work with our District who you might like to engage as a speaker. Don’t worry, if you miss the meeting, the agenda, minutes, and budget are all posted online.

35). We also welcomed more than 70 new Kindergarteners for the 2018–19 school year and celebrated them and their families with the school’s annual PTA KindergartenParent coffee held in September.

October brought the annual Boo Bash, a student favorite. One highlight is always the “teacher experience” auction, where parents can bid in a silent-auction style format for things, including the student experience of “principal for a day” or a special student ice cream treat date with their teacher. The kids also love the cake walk, which is a musical chairs-style game, with the prize being a tasty, beautifully-decorated cake!

In January, the school will have its third annual Read-A-Thon. What started as a playground fundraiser idea turned into a school-wide favorite event. How can you resist an event where reading books ends in your principal getting slimed if he can’t guess the exact number of minutes read school-wide? We are fortunate that Dr. McClintock-Comeaux is such a great sport! Last year over a ten-day period, our kids read more than 108,000 total minutes, and we are confident they will beat that number this year!

The school’s annual variety show will be held in February instead of April this year, so it’s exciting that we’ll get to see our school’s talent on display a few months earlier. I served as the chairperson for this event in 2017 and 2018, and it blows me away each year to see so many talented students and the courage that they display.

The start of a new school year is always such a whirlwind, full of busy times and places to be, but our families at Baker wouldn’t want it any other way! We are looking forward to the remainder of 2018 and the excitement of what 2019 will bring!

Baker PTA Lindsay Beck, President Fall is my favorite time of year, and we have been keeping busy at Baker as the air turns cooler and the leaves get crunchier.

We’ve had a few months of excitement and play on our new playground, and it’s been a delight to see the kids’ reactions— especially when they found out a short morning recess had been incorporated into their day! We had an amazing turnout of kids, parents, teachers, and local sponsors at our ribbon-cutting event held prior to the first day of school (see article on page

Eisenhower PTO Heather Grote, President The fall season is upon us and we are well on our way to another fun and exciting school year. Eisenhower Elementary kicked off the school year with its annual welcome breakfast for incoming Kindergartners and new students. Late in August before school started, parents and students were greeted by principal Mark Miller and the new PTO executive board.

After a tasty continental breakfast, the children and parents had an opportunity to meet their classmates, tour the school,

Winter 2018

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature and see their classrooms for the first time.

The first quarter of school is one of the busiest for the school’s PTO. While our teachers and students are getting acclimated to their new surroundings and hitting the books, the PTO and our energetic parent volunteers are busy executing a robust calendar of events. Events include the fall book fair, grade level breakfasts, and “Eisenhower Extras” (our after-school programming, which offers various classes ranging from lacrosse to pottery to science exploration). In the middle of this funfilled, action-packed quarter, our tireless team of parent volunteers conducts our annual fundraiser, the Eisenhowler. A family event with food, new and improved games, silent auction, and amazing raffle baskets, it was a great evening of festivities.

In late October, everyone got excited for the fun and games at the harvest parties held in each classroom along with the annual parade, where students wore costumes. New to Eisenhower families this year is a library event on Thursday, November 15, where the PTO is partnering with the Township librarians to host a fun night of reading and games held on the Township library’s children’s floor. Won’t you join us to continue our focus on reading and developing a love of books and learning in our children’s elementary years?

Our Eisenhower family really comes together and offers a wide variety of activities for our students and their families. While these events take a lot of planning time, the smiles on our children’s faces and the happy memories make it all worthwhile!

Streams PTO Kerstin Goodworth, President Fall and winter are seasons of warmth at Streams! We kicked off fall with our wonderful Stravaganza event. This year’s Stravaganza theme was “Around the World: Where will kindness take you?” The theme expressed our sense of community and tied into the school’s IB PYP learner profile words that remind us that we all share a desire to be “caring, open-minded inquirers.” With kindness being the center that connects us all, we are grateful for the kindness and generosity showed by our families, students, teachers, staff, administrators, and guests at Streams. Through everyone’s help, we moved into the holiday season knowing that we’ve secured the

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funds to put on grade level nights, pay for assemblies and field trips, and give generously to the entire Streams community.

That alone warms our hearts.

Before we knew it, it was Halloween.

Streams had its annual harvest party and parade on October 31. The student excitement was a real treat to experience!

As the outside temperatures begin to drop, the feelings of love and community grow. Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday for all, but Kindergarteners get a special treat by recreating their own Thanksgiving feast with their classmates.

Before we know it, December will be here, and the warmth continues. The buzz in the school before winter break reflects the warmth of family and traditions that surround December. And right before break, we’ll celebrate the friendships we’ve already forged this year at our winter parties. As we move into the winter recess, the glow of a new year is on the horizon, and so are preparations for our Children for Children event coming up in February.

Children for Children is a magical event. Seeing the kids, teachers, and staff work together to make this student-led charity drive a reality is one of our proudest times of the year. This event was founded with the desire to teach our children how to meaningfully contribute to our community. Every year, the students, event committee, and staff select one charity that will receive the benefits of our fundraising efforts. Among the past charities that received support were Beverly’s Birthdays, CC Champions, and Best Buddies.

Once the charity is selected, it’s up to the kids to get involved. Children make baked goods to sell, make crafts and artwork to be raffled off, create games to run, and research the organization we are supporting. All that preparation comes to fruition the night of our Children for Children auction. Teachers raffle off lunch dates, opportunities to do crafts, pizza parties, and more. The kids get excited to win the prizes. It’s certainly fun to watch the kids’ reactions to the raffle drawing.

The auction this school year is on Thursday, February 21 and the entire community is invited to attend! So, if you find yourself yearning for a reprieve from chilly February weather, come and join our 500 students at our charity event. It will melt your heart! n Winter 2018

KMF Designs

Kyle M. Fasenmyer 724.302.7944 kylemf88@gmail.com

Technical Illustration Cartoons & Caricatures Special Event Cards & Materials Logo Design

www.kylefasenmyer.com

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USC Students Named AP Scholars in 2018 The College Board announced that 129 Upper St. Clair High School students earned the designation of AP Scholar, including nine National AP Scholars. These students earned recognition for their exceptional achievement in the college-level Advanced Placement Program in 2018. “Our students are to be commended for their high academic performance in what is widely considered the most challenging curriculum offered to high school students,” said Dr. Louis Angelo, USCHS principal.

In May 2018, 346 USC students completed 696 AP exams in 22 subjects, earning a 90% pass rate. AP tests are scored 1–5; students must earn a three or higher to pass and possibly qualify for college credit. (Colleges and universities have independent policies regarding awarding credits for AP courses.)

Nine students were named National AP Scholars as well as an AP Scholars with Distinction for earning an average grade of at least four on all AP exams taken, and scores of four or higher on eight or more exams. 2018 graduates Kevin Chen, Steven Cheung, Ariana Chiu, Nadith Dharmasena, Sahil Doshi, John Gordley, Jagadeesh Gummadi, Aritro Nandi, and Abigail Wagner were recognized for this achievement, the highest honor offered by the College Board.

Thirty-seven USC students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. To qualify, students must earn an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on five or more of these exams. The list of honorees includes 2018 graduates Jonah Auslander, Lily Bonasso, John Cappetta, Caitlin Cassidy, John De la Parra, Meredith Engel, David Frauen, Michael Gallagher, Ross Gibson, Jonah Glunt, Isaac Goodman, Kyrie Graham, Minori Hayakawa, Matthew Higgs, Andrew Hobart, Michael Hrehocik, Meghan Johnson, Wyatt Keating, Kevin Kwok, Jacob Lantzman, Austin Li, Dennis Li, Spencer Miller, Zachary Miller, Reis Milone, Emily Molitoris, Nicholas Ravasio, Andrew Rocks, Harshini Sakthivel, Kriti Shah, Mary Wilding, and James Wilkinson; and current USCHS seniors Eshita Chhajlani, Samuel Ding, Shalmalee Joshi, Arushi Khaitan, and Serena Luo. Thirty-four USC students earned recognition as AP Scholars with Honor by earning an average score of 3.25 or higher on all AP exams taken and scores of three or higher on four or more of these exams. The list of honorees includes 2018 graduates Taim Aizooky,

Mia Beyerl, Grace Blumenfeld, James Boston, Alexander Cohen, Alexander Gasper, Akshar Golakiya, Anna Groninger, Kathryn Hall, Anvi Kumar, Parachi Masown, Madelyn McConaghy, Hannah Pribanic, Rebecca Quinn, Daniel Speer, Elizabeth Walsh, Matthew White, and Cassandra Whyte; current USCHS seniors John Beggy, Samuel Burt, Justin Dreyer, Hashim Durrani, Miles Friedman, Meghan Joon, Dina Leyzarovich, Jacob Musser, Ritik Parmas, Shivam Patel, Hridhay Reddy, Tushar Roy, Paarth Shankar, and Yingqi Tao; and current USCHS juniors Katherine Hobart and Alex Lampe.

Forty-nine USC students earned the distinction of AP Scholar by earning scores of three or higher on three or more exams. AP Scholars include 2018 graduates Emma Artnak, Taylor Bartusiak, Samuel Cancilla, Johanna Chikuni, Alyssa Cuddy, Michael Daley, Thejaswi Duvvuru, Mary Engel, Brendan Fortunato, Jack Giba, John Hansberry; Nathan Johnsen, Alexandra Khani, James Khor, Thomas Kyle, Laura Lapham, Caroline LeKachman, Alexander Majkic, Melanie Mantel, Joshua Meyer, Nicholas Mologne, Krisha Monpara, Brandon Novak, Elizabeth Petley, Rayna Recht, Abigail Riemer, Amanda Ross, Savannah Shaw, Daniel Spilsbury, John Steve, Logan Szajnecki, and Ava White; USCHS seniors Anber Bhuiyan, Benjamin Burlovic, Brooke Christiansen, Mia Collis, Veronica Gibbons, Caroline Hendrix, Christopher Hess, Matthew McCormick, Brendan Neal, Neha Patel, Taylor Quinn, Vikram Reddy, Ethan Rutowski, Olivia Schlichting, Ayush Sharma, and Grace Wagner; and current USCHS junior Braden Yates.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while attending high school and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both, for successful performance on AP exams. USCHS currently offers 23 AP courses, including AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature and Composition, AP World History, AP U.S. History, AP Comparative Government & Politics, AP U.S. Government & Politics, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP Psychology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, AP French, AP German, AP Spanish, AP Music Theory, and AP Computer Science A. n

USCSD Musical Performances USCHS Choir Madrigal Dinner Saturday, November 17, 5:30 p.m.

Westminster Presbyterian Church

Boyce Orchestra Winter Concert Monday, December 10, 7 p.m.

Boyce Theater

USCHS Jazz Ensemble Concert Tuesday, November 20, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

Fort Couch Band Concert Tuesday, December 11, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

Fort Couch Chorus with Community Band South Saturday, December 1, 8 a.m.

C&RC

Boyce Winter Chorus Concert Wednesday, December 12, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

Fort Couch Choral and Orchestra Concert Thursday, December 6, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater USCHS Jazz Ensemble Holiday Performance Monday, December 10, noon PPG Place 34

Fort Couch Choral Concert Thursday, December 13, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

What? When? Where?

Fort Couch Chorus Performance Friday, December 14, 8 a.m.

Greater Pittsburgh International Airport

USCHS Instrumental Winter Concert Wednesday, December 19, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

USCHS Choir Concert Tuesday, December 18, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

Pantheon Choir Performance with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Thursday, December 20, 7 p.m.

Heinz Hall

Fort Couch’s Con Brio Orchestra Wednesday, December 19, 11 a.m.

Allegheny Courthouse

USCHS Combined Strings Concert Thursday, January 17, 7 p.m.

USCHS Theater

Boyce Winter Band and Chorus Concert Thursday, December 13, 7 p.m.

Boyce Theater

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pantheon Choir Winter 2018

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Hail and Farewell

USC welcomes the following new hires to Upper St. Clair School District: Tonia Autieri (Boyce), Michael Belak (school police), Courtney Campbell (Eisenhower), Ray Carson, Jr. (central office), Steven Cosnek (Streams), Mallory Fallert (Streams), Carolyn Fortson (Streams), Miranda Gray (USCHS), Katherine Hendrickson (Streams), Jennifer Jacobs (Baker), Jessica Kenny (Eisenhower), Laura Laboon (USCHS), Melanie Lenthall (Streams), Kathryn Magill (central office), Gordon Mathews (USCHS), William Mocker (bus garage), Corrine Nunez (USCHS), Kelly Pascarella (Boyce), Stephanie Rieger (USCHS), Nichole Trollman (Baker), Jami Vargo (Streams/USCHS), and Thomas White (school police).

Thank you to the following School District employees (listed alphabetically) who retired as of the 2017–18 school year: Cathy Bowen, Susan Britvich, Daniel Carey, Vicki Cayuela, Joseph Conners, Donna Faccenda, Dominick Frollini, Kevin Hillman, Junko Kapples, Helen Krizner, Jeffrey Leonhardt, Valeria MacWhinnie, Stephen Mehalik, Connie Montgomery, P a t r i c k O ’ To o l e , Andrea Perry, Barbara Rahr, Pam Render, Cindy Storer, Cheryl Todaro, and Deborah Woodford. n New teachers on the first teacher in-service day, left to right, Nichole Trollman, Courtney Campbell, and Jessica Kenny, and teacher aide Teresa Peluso (far right)

Baker Playground Is Ready for Fun! After nearly two years of planning and fundraising, the Baker Elementary PTA playground project is complete. Baker parents donned hammers and hard hats as they participated in a community build this past July. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place in August to kick off the new school year and officially celebrate the new playground.

Funds for the project were raised through grants, corporate sponsorships, and fundraisers through the PTA, including a ten thousand dollar USC Community Foundation grant, the school’s Read-A-Thon, and a commemorative brick sale.

Cutting the ribbon of the opening of the Baker playground are members of the Baker PTA playground committee, left to right, Melissa DePuy, Michelle Urban (PTA board advisor), Karly Foster, Kristie Proud, Libby Mascaro, Christina Casciani, and Baker principal Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux

A collaborative effort from the start, the PTA committee and Baker principal Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux worked side-by-side with students from USCHS’s STEAM Innovation & Consulting course. The high school students helped develop the design, which updated the school’s outdoor play spaces to maximizes usage and ensure appropriate adult supervision.

“We are excited that our hard work has paid off,” said Lindsay Beck, PTA president for Baker. “Baker families and friends have given so generously to this project. We are happy for everyone to see and enjoy the finished product, especially the kids!” n Winter 2018

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Life Planning

This is beautiful.

This is home.

This is Providence Point. Pittsburgh’s vibrant 62+ Life Plan community is expanding.

Hamilton Tower, which will offer brand new spacious floor plans, is scheduled to open next summer. Reservations are filling fast.

At Providence Point, fine dining, 24-hour fitness, and other resort-like amenities combine with stellar wellness and 5-star healthcare so that you can truly enjoy life. Call or visit today.

A Baptist Homes Society community

OPENING SUMMER 2019

CALL 412.489.3550

www.ProvidencePoint.org

500 Providence Point Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

Peace of Mind—One Benefit of Retirement Planning Marilyn Walsh, Director of Marketing, Providence Point One of the most common, yet unexpected, results of having a solid retirement plan is the comfort people find in knowing that plans are in place. Bill and Linda Dempsey see their decision to move to Providence Point as a gift to their children because a potential difficult decision was taken out of their hands, making life simpler. “Making the decision to move to Providence Point—a place with every amenity—made it that much easier and timely for our children,” said Bill.

Providence Point residents often involve their children in their decision to move, but for the most part, it is the seniors themselves who choose the community as their retirement address. Their reasons vary— from the great amenities to the five-star healthcare—but, frequently, it also involves being near to children and grandchildren as well as not being a burden to them.

Providence Point, a Life Plan Community that offers a variety of LifeCare contracts, provides the guarantee of care within the community no matter how a resident’s healthcare needs might change. It works similar to a long-term care insurance policy.

According to Motley Fool, if you remain healthy at age 65, you have a good chance of living until you’re 80, 90, or even 95. You can increase those odds by living a life that is imbued with wellness—addressing the spiritual, physical, intellectual, social, dietary, monetary, and emotional aspects of your well-being.

Close to 70% of the population turning 65 today will require longterm services and supports in their remaining years. (U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services). Though 30% of the population may never require long-term services, about 20% will need care for longer than five years.

What does that mean for you and your family? By preparing ahead, you can be ready for just about any circumstance that unfolds as you 36

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Winter 2018

age. Understand the coverage and limits of Medicare and other insurance you have so that you can be prepared for how much your choices will cost. By planning wisely, you can avoid having decisions thrust upon Bill and Linda Dempsey you and be able to: • Relieve your children of the burden of making tough decisions, selecting your care, or becoming caregivers.

• Make a plan that fits your financial, social, and health situations.

• Be informed and have peace of mind concerning your health and lifestyle.

“Reports claim that people living in a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) tend to live longer,” said Marilyn Walsh, director of marketing and public relations for Baptist Homes Society. “They have opportunities to socialize and exercise. They live in an environment designed to protect their health and safety as they age. Some of our Providence Point residents are currently participating in a Mather Lifeways study to prove this claim of longevity. Five years from now, when the survey results are in, I believe we’ll get that proof.” n See ad for Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community, on this page.

Life Planning

Protect Your Home When You Travel

You’ve packed your suitcase and booked your itinerary. But before you board the plane, take the time to protect your home while you’re away. While burglaries peak in the summer months when most families vacation, winter can be a popular vacation time for older adults.

Your home can be prone to break ins any time of the year.

To fully enjoy your time away, plan appropriate home security and maintenance with this checklist.

Inside the house: • Set timers on interior lights to deter burglars who often look for crimes of opportunity. Don’t allow your house to appear as if no one is home.

• Prevent power surges. You never know when a power surge will occur, so be prepared. Disconnect the computer, TV, stereo, and other electronics, or make sure they are plugged safely into a surge protector.

• Refrain from telltale status updates, and never broadcast your location on Facebook or Twitter. While you may think it’s only your friends or colleagues viewing your online profiles, it’s safest not to leave any sort of opening for a possible burglar.

• If you have an automatic security system, alert your alarm company.

Prior to your departure, make sure the alarm is set properly.

• Secure valuables. If you don’t already have your jewelry or other valuables in a safe deposit box, now might be the time to do so. Doing this also ensures that you don’t leave valuables out in plain sight that a burglar might be able to see from a window.

• Set the HVAC. Set a programmable thermostat to lower your heat or air conditioning usage and remember to change the thermostat’s battery.

• Protect your pipes. Make sure pipes in vulnerable areas—attics, basements, and crawlspaces—are insulated. In unusually cold weather, set your thermostat at 55 degrees or above. Ask a neighbor or trusted friend to stop by and check on the house and periodically turn on the faucets to ensure the pipes don’t freeze.

• Lock all doors and windows. It might seem obvious, but doublecheck, just to be sure.

Outside the house: • Arrange for lawn care. Have your landscaping tended to by a neighbor or local service. Before you leave, trim tree branches that might allow access to a climbing burglar.

• Stop newspapers and mail deliveries or have them regularly picked up by a neighbor. Again, you don’t want to easily give a clue about your absence by the mounting newspapers on your doorstep.

• Plan exterior lighting and set these lights on timers, as well, to deter burglars.

• Don’t leave spare keys outdoors. Remember, burglars know the most popular hiding places, like beneath mats and in potted plants.

• Lock the garage. Even if there is no entrance to your house from the garage, there’s still a chance for numerous things to be stolen.

Secure the door and any entrances to the garage. n This article was provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent.

See ad on this page.

Excellence—the Standard of Care at St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center

St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center welcomes women with a gracious and comfortable setting where they are assured of receiving exquisite, personal, and expert care. The hospital’s breast care center offers the most advanced screening, diagnostics, and treatment for breast cancer, provided by a team of professionals who consider this their life’s mission. Raye Budway, MD, medical director of the center, along with fellow physician Tara Grahovac, MD, are both board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast surgery. Together, they lead a top notch, integrated multidisciplinary team prepared to provide each woman with clinically excellent care customized to her specific, individual needs.

In the treatment of breast cancer, every tumor is unique, requiring treatment that is highly individualized and nuanced. St. Clair Hospital’s breast surgeons and radiologists not only have the wealth of their own knowledge, training, and experience to provide this

level of care, but also access to breast care experts at the worldrenowned Mayo Clinic, thanks to a clinical collaboration between Mayo Clinic and St. Clair Hospital. This advantage enables the doctors to treat breast tumors with finely tuned precision and the most advanced expertise available anywhere.

Fully recognizing that the experience of breast cancer is a difficult journey for every woman, the center helps each patient through every single step with dignity, support, and advocacy.

Two nurse navigators shepherd the patient along her path, giving her, at every point, the peace of mind of knowing they are always available to respond to concerns, help solve problems, and simply listen. The combined skills of the surgeons and the radiologists, plus the registered nurses, radiology technicians, counselors, and other professionals, serve to provide each patient with the highest quality, state-of-the-art, patient-centered care. n

St. Clair Hospital’s Breast Care Center offers two locations: Bethel Park and Peters Township. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 412-942-7800. See ads for St. Clair Hospital on pages 2 and 79.

Winter 2018

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Life Planning

Speech | OT | PT | Psych Services

(724) 942-6100 whs.org

1000 Waterdam Plaza Drive Ste.120, McMurray, PA 15317 289 North Avenue Washington, PA 15301

Pregnancy Nutrition

Carly Zuwiala, MD, OB/GYN Physician at Washington Health System Pregnancy is a time of physical and emotional changes for all women. Being mindful of nutrition during this time can help you have a healthier pregnancy and healthier baby. Though wellmeaning relatives may tell you to “eat for two” and stock up on ice cream, there’s much more to pregnancy nutrition than that.

Pregnancy is an opportune time to look at your nutrition and figure out exactly what healthy eating looks like for you. Optimizing your health now can decrease your risk for future health concerns like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and osteoporosis.

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is important because excessive weight gain can contribute to postpartum weight retention. Of course, a healthy pregnancy does involve some weight gain. So how do you know when it’s too much? According to the National Academy of Medicine, recommended weight gain during pregnancy is 28–40 pounds for underweight women (BMI<18.5), 25–35 pounds for women of normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9), 15–25 pounds for overweight women (BMI 25–29.9) and 11–20 pounds for obese women (BMI>30).

It may be confusing knowing how to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy, especially when it’s constantly going up. The basic guidelines for additional calorie consumption are as follows: the recommended increased caloric intake is zero calories in the first trimester, 350 calories (equivalent to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich) in the second trimester, and 450 additional calories in the third trimester. If you’re not sure that you’re hitting your calorie goals, try tracking your calories for a few days to determine how much extra you’re eating.

The best diet for a pregnant woman is one full of nutritionallydiverse foods. Protein requirements increase in pregnancy for fetal, 38

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placental, and maternal tissue development; so, find healthy ways to increase this nutrient in your diet. Some great sources of protein are lean meats, fish, and nuts. Many women are wary about eating fish during pregnancy, but two to three servings of fish per week is a great source of protein and DHA and omega-3 fats, which have been shown to improve neurodevelopment in children. Steer clear of fish that are high in mercury (like shark and swordfish). Some great fish options during pregnancy are anchovies, Atlantic herring, Atlantic mackerel, mussels, oysters, salmon, sardines, snapper, and trout.

Just like there are healthy foods you’ll want to include in your diet, there are also some foods to avoid. Most of these on the “no” list are due to their increased risk to cause foodborne illnesses. Foods like undercooked/raw meat, unpasteurized dairy products, raw sprouts, unwashed vegetables, unheated deli meats, and raw/undercooked fish all pose a risk for illnesses, like listeria and toxoplasmosis.

Many women are on special diets before pregnancy, like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Under the guidance of a doctor, it’s usually okay to continue these special diets as long as you are paying careful attention to meeting your daily requirements for protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins.

In addition to eating healthy, one important aspect of prenatal nutrition is to take a good quality prenatal vitamin as well as folic acid supplementation. It has long been recognized that folic acid supplementation decreases isolated neural tube defects. If you’re planning to become pregnant, you should start taking a folic acid supplement at least a month before you become pregnant. Then continue taking it throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 400 mcg daily in addition to a folate rich diet. Luckily, many common foods (bread, cereal,

Life Planning

Discover The Embassy of Asbury Heights 230 Beverly Road, Mt. Lebanon

Introducing the $5,000 Entrance Fee Option Available at The Embassy of Asbury Heights, part of UPMC Senior Communities.

Enjoy a continental breakfast and 24/7 concierge services. Pets welcome!

Live in an elegantly appointed two-bedroom apartment with underground parking while having access to all of Asbury Heights’ services and amenities.

Contact John Komisary at 412-571-5133 700 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon • asburyheights.org Asbury Heights complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

pasta, flour) are fortified with folic acid 9151_SRLIV509109_ah_usc_today_ad_7.5x4.875.indd 1 here in the U.S. And, even better, many of these high starch foods are what pregnant women crave in the first trimester anyway!

Besides maintaining a healthy diet, women with uncomplicated pregnancies are encouraged to continue a regular exercise routine involving aerobic exercise and strength conditioning. Regular exercise improves and maintains physical fitness, aids in weight management, reduces the risk of gestational diabetes in women with obesity, and can improve psychological well-being. An exercise routine of 20–30 minutes four to five times a week should be sufficient. If you’re already used to a more vigorous fitness regimen, you should be able to continue it during pregnancy as long as you first discuss it with your healthcare provider. Some activities to avoid because of their inherent danger include horseback riding, contact sports, and downhill skiing. Pregnant women should also avoid hot yoga and hot Pilates.

A stronger and healthier mother results in an easier and more enjoyable pregnancy! n Contact Washington Health System OB/ GYN at 724-225-3640 with questions about pregnancy nutrition and weight management. See ad on page 38.

Senior Living Communities Can Offer Winter Respite

9/12/18 12:11 PM

Marjie Doughton, Director, Residential Services, Asbury Heights

The winter months can present a set of challenges for seniors, but there’s no need to struggle with constant weather worries and isolation. There’s still time to make plans to safely get through winter without stress—whether you decide to stay at home or to have a respite stay at a senior living community.

Your primary source of a successful winter at home is having a strong support system of friends, family, and neighbors who can check on you or help you if you’re snowbound. Being isolated for long periods of time can develop into depression and lead to other mental health issues. Regularly being in others’ company can keep the winter blues away.

If the weather is bad and keeping you from getting out, but you have access to the Internet, get together with friends using technology. There are free services you can use to text, send pictures, or video chat with loved ones. Your local library can help direct you to services that work best for you and your devices.

Challenge yourself to complete a project that you’ve been putting off. Organize those photo albums or create a scrapbook. How about trying a new hobby or learning a new language?

There are many ways to enjoy the upcoming winter months at home, but there are still tasks that can be overwhelming, including traveling to the store in icy conditions and cleaning snow and ice from your walkway.

If the winter months seem too daunting, consider a winter respite stay at a senior living community. You can stay warm and comfortable in your private room or apartment, where you’ll have access to a variety of activities, three meals a day, and housekeeping services, among other things. Nurses are on hand if you’re not feeling well, and transportation is available for doctor’s appointments or outings to the store or other recreational activities.

Best of all, you’ll give your family and friends peace of mind knowing that you are safe and enjoying each day.

There’s no place like home, but a respite in a senior living community can truly feel like a winter getaway. Whatever you do, be safe, be healthy, and be you! n

See ad for Asbury Heights, part of UPMC Senior Communities, on this page.

Winter 2018

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“It is okay to use an over-the-counter or prescription spot treatment for acne flare ups, but picking leads to more damage. Some larger cysts can be injected in the office by a board-certified dermatologist, Breaking Bad Habits: Taking Better Care of Your Skin to help speed resolution.”

4. Not wearing a daily moisturizer, even for acne-prone skin. The skin Heather Holtschlag is the first line of defense for the body. Keeping it moisturized and healthy helps to defend it from unwanted inflammation and can Bad habits are hard to break, especially when it comes help hide signs of aging. to taking care of our skin. These habits can range from too much or “I even recommend that my patients with acne use a moisturizer. too little in our daily skincare regimen.

Acne medications often leave the skin dry, which can cause more There are several types of bad habits that Ashley Kittridge, DO, inflammation. Applying an oil-free moisturizer is a part of most FAAD, owner of Kittridge Dermatology, sees daily in her practice. acne treatment plans,” Dr. Kittridge noted.

Here, she offers the most common of these, and provides suggestions 5. Tobacco and alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol have many negative efon how to reverse them. fects on the skin, the biggest being accelerated aging and a sallow 1. Sleeping in makeup or not washing your face at bedtime. If you appearance. aren’t washing your face, you accumulate a buildup of dead skin “Tobacco and alcohol are bad for the body, so it is no surprise that cells and bacteria that can lead to dull appearance of the skin, they are also bad for the skin. I can usually tell who the smokers inflammation, and acne. are just by examining their skin. Work with your doctor to stop “Really, the most important thing is just cleansing,” Dr. smoking and drink alcohol in moderation,” says Dr. Kittridge.

Kittridge said. “Recommendations on specific cleansers vary based 6. Diet. Diet is so important for our overall health, but it is also on skin type and what skin issues need to be addressed. For inextremely important for skin health. Avoid inflammatory foods, stance, I may recommend a prescription wash for acne, a glycolic including red meats. Focus on low glycemic index (low carbohyacid wash for anti-aging, or a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin.” drate) and high fat/omega3 foods.

2. Not wearing sunscreen or sunblock all year long. Most skin cancers “Eating foods with a low glycemic index helps combat inflammaoccur on the left side of the body from sun exposure while drivtion and is something I recommend, especially for my patients ing. Ultraviolet A penetrates through glass, causing sun damage. with psoriasis and acne,” Dr. Kittridge explained. “Healthy fats and Even in the winter months, the sun still lurks and those UV rays proteins, including fish, avocados, and nuts are great for feeding still shine! your body and your skin.”

“Protect your skin all year long by applying a sunblock, not just 7. Over-exfoliating. Over-exfoliating causes more inflammation in the in the summer or while at the pool or beach. Your skin will thank skin. you,” says Dr. Kittridge.

“Most skin concerns, such as brown spots and wrinkles, are much 3. Picking at acne. Picking acne leads to increased inflammation, easier to prevent than correct. Many people exercise regularly and longer healing times, and scars. eat healthy, but don’t follow a healthy skin routine. I think some people forget that the skin is the largest organ of the body, the first line of defense, and sometimes the first to show signs of disease. Respect your skin!”

It is never too late to start caring for your skin properly. Dr. Kittridge advises to first adopt a simple regimen, then expand or modify that regimen over time. “I recommend working with Dr. Ashley Kittridge, DO, FAOCD, FAAD a board-certified dermatologist to find a regimen Board-certified Dermatologist that addresses your specific concerns.”

Overall, there are four fundamentals for The first Direct Care dermatology practice in the Pittsburgh area offering general and cosmetic services caring for our skin: 1. Cleanse your face twice daily. our mission Is to restore the doctor-patient relationship and provide affordable, transparent, patient-centric, quality care.

2. Use sunblock daily, even in the winter months. Be sure to reapply every two hours Benefits of Direct Care Model: while outdoors. Dr. Kittridge prefers a physi1. Appointment availability within a week cal blocker that contains zinc oxide rather 2. Little wait time in the office than chemical ingredients.

3. Wholesale medication Costs 3. Use a nightly over-the-counter retinol or a prescription Retin A cream (avoid during 4. Extended, relaxed visits pregnancy).

5. Affordable care 4. Use a moisturizer.

6. Health savings and flex spending “Once you have conquered the basic accounts accepted skincare regimen, other skincare products or 7. Transparency of pricing procedures can be added, including peels and 8. No surprise bills in the mail laser treatments, to specifically address any after your office visit 101 Drake Road remaining concerns,” she advised. n Suite B 9. Easy online scheduling Pittsburgh, PA 15241 For more information about healthy skincare habits, contact Dr. Kittridge at 412-347-0947 or visit her website at www.kittridgedermatology.

P: 412-347-0947 | www.kittridgedermatology.com com. See ad on this page.

A Healthier U(SC)

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Pinebridge Commons Pinebridge Commons

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Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc.

Questa Petroleum Co.

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Peter Gialames & Associates

Troy Orthodontics

Interior Designs/Furnishings

Beth Troy, DMD

by Mary Kay Chaffee Jennings & Co., CPA Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

Richardson Family Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins. Suburban Dry Cleaners Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent.

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Chairside Whitening System

Troy Orthodontics provides care for the communities of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Dr. Beth Troy takes the time to place and adjust braces on every patient, giving individualized attention in a caring environment.

Complete General & Specialty Dental Care Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Prosthodontic Specialist

Schedule your complimentary consultation today!

• Orthodontic services for children and adults • Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment

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Pinebridge Commons location: 1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-221-0392 Bethel Park location: 2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-831-2188

Winter 2018

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

www.drtroysmiles.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

41

T Township Commissioners

Mark D. Christie

Nicholas J. Seitanakis

President Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

Vice President Ward 1 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-220-4434 2019*

C. Elise Logan

2018–2019 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

Robert W. Orchowski

Ward 2

Ward 3

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-206-5130 2021*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2019*

Ronald J. Pardini

Russell R. Del Re

Daniel R. Paoly

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 724-941-1199 2019*

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-287-9076 2019*

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

Ward 5

At-Large

• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room.

• The Planning Commission meets the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

• The Parks and Recreation Board meets at the C&RC the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.; no meeting in December.

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

• The Civil Service Board meets as needed.

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

• The Library Board meets as needed.

At-Large

*Date indicates expiration of term.

All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meetings of the Board of Commissioners. Citizens are invited to comment on any Township matter.

Complete Board minutes can be found at the Upper St. Clair Township Library or on the website at www.twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.

Township Administration

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

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

Jonathan Wharton Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni Director of Planning & Community Development

Jacque Rowden Director of Information Technology

Helen M. Palascak Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works Copyright © M&M Photography

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To reach Township personnel, call 412-831-9000 and follow the automated directions.

Administrator Extension Matthew R. Serakowski........................................................216 Township Manager Mark S. Mansfield.................................................................219 Asst. Township Manager & Director of Administration Jonathan Wharton.................................................................238 Chief of Police Mark P. Romito......................................................................218 Director of Finance Adam A. Benigni....................................................................501 Director of Planning & Community Development Jacque Rowden Director of Information Technology George Kostelich, Jr...............................................................271 Director of Public Works Helen M. Palascak.................................................................247 Director of Library Paul Besterman......................................................................656 Director of Recreation & Leisure Services Other Services Police–Administration........................................... 412-833-1113 Tri-Community South EMS–Administration....... 412-831-3710 USC Volunteer Fire Department–Administration... 412-835-0660 Animal Control..................................................... 412-833-7500 Community & Recreation Center....................... 412-221-1099 Cable 7................................................................... 412-831-1030 Emergency–Police, Fire, EMS ............................. 412-833-7500 USC Township website:

www.twpusc.org

T Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings July 2, 2018

Approximately 15 people attended.

The Board • Adopted Bill No. 9-18 Re. PLC18-0005–1614 Washington Road–Union Savings Bank–Nonresidential–Conditional Use Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1657 approving the revised Police Mutual Aid Agreement.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1658 authorizing the Township to join with other communities within Allegheny County to accomplish the goals of the Live Well Allegheny Campaign.

• Approved the Planning Priorities for 2018–2019.

Approval of Contracts • Martins Maintenance East Providence, RI Four Year Contract for Custodial & Janitorial Services for the Township Buildings and the Community & Recreation Center............................................... $292,500 (per year) • Masco Corporation McMurray, PA McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC) Renovations........................................... $399,780 • Traffic Control & Engineering Bentleyville, PA Traffic Signal Upgrades at the Intersections of McLaughlin Run Road & Panther Pass, and McMurray Road & Johnston Road.............................................................. $613,318.25

Accessibility Coordinators

The Township of Upper St. Clair has five accessibility coordinators to further enhance all visitors’ access to Township facilities, parks, trails, and programs.

The accessibility link is found on the Township’s homepage under Quick Links and will take the visitor to detailed accessibility information.

Currently, the Township of Upper St. Clair’s accessibility coordinators are: • Jeremy Lemley, Buildings/Grounds Administrator (for all Township buildings), 412-831-9000, ext. 271 • Jacque Rowden, Director of Information Technology (for Township website and phone system), 412-831-9000 • Helen Palascak, Director of Library, 412-831-9000, ext. 224 • Gary Schafer, Parks and Forestry Administrator, 412-831-9000, ext. 271 • Paul Besterman, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services (for all recreation activities), 412-831-9000, ext. 656

September 4, 2018

Approximately 30 people attended.

(The August 2018 Board of Commissioners’ Meeting was cancelled.)

Recognitions • Commissioner Ronald Pardini presented a Proclamation to Chief of Police Douglas Burkholder for his years of service and retirement from the Township of Upper St. Clair.

• Dr. Jim Segedy, a member of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association, announced that Boyce Mayview Park was designated as a Great Place in PA in the Great Greenways/Trails category and presented the Great Places Certificate to the Township.

• Commissioner Robert Orchowski presented a Certificate of Achievement to Alex Shaw, brother of Savannah Shaw, recognizing Savannah for her 2018 WPIAL Track and Field Championship in the 1600 Meter Run. The Board • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC18-0008–1741 Painters Run Road– Dean Car Wash–Nonresidential–Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to the October 1, 2018, Regular Board Meeting.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1659 adopting the Township’s 2019–2023 FiveYear Capital Improvement Program.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1660 authorizing Mark Christie, President of the Board of Commissioners, to execute the reimbursement and maintenance agreement for intersection improvements at Old Washington Road/SR Left to right: retired Police Chief Douglas 19 and Boyce Road/SR 19.

Burkholder, Township Commissioner • A dopted Resolution No. 1661 authorizing Matthew Serakowski, Ronald Pardini Township Manager, as the official to execute all documents with regard to the traffic signal approval application between the Township of Upper St. Clair and PennDOT for the intersection of McLaughlin Run Road and Panther Pass.

Approval of Contract Waste Management Pittsburgh, PA Refuse, Recycling, and Leaf Waste

Monthly Cost Per Home Year (currently 7030 homes) 2019 (through Mar 31) $17.10 2019 (Apr 1–Dec 31) $16.82 2020 $17.13 2021 $17.47 2022 $17.81 Left to right: Dr. Jim Segedy, Township 2023 $18.16 Commissioner Mark Christie

Seeking Volunteers to Serve

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

Talent Bank forms are being accepted for the following Township commissions and boards: • Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board • Civil Service Board • Library Board • Municipal Authority • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board • Planning Commission • Youth Steering Committee (in conjunction with the School District of Upper St. Clair) • Zoning Hearing Board

Uniform Construction Code Changes Effective October 1

As of October 1, 2018, the Uniform Construction Code changed from the 2009 International Building Code to the 2015 International Code Series. Residential projects must comply with the 2015 International Residential Code and commercial projects must comply with the 2015 International Building Code. If a design or construction contract for any proposed work was signed prior to October 1, 2018, the work can be performed under the 2009 code. n For questions or additional information, contact Upper St. Clair Township Community Development Department at 412-831-9000, ext. 501.

Winter 2018

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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T Recycling Changes Begin January 1, 2019

Curbside Recycling— Do Recycle: • Plastics #1 & #2 (bottles, jugs, jars).

Shape matters–the neck of the item is smaller than its base (think milk jug, ketchup bottle, shampoo bottle, laundry detergent container). Secure lids can stay on.

• Aluminum, bi-metal, and steel cans (think soda can, food can) • Cardboard (all cardboard, cereal boxes, packing boxes with loose packing material removed). Flattening boxes will give you more space in the bin.

• Mixed paper–phone books, magazines, office papers, flyers, junk mail, newspaper (Stapled paper material is OK.) • All recyclable items must be loose (not in bags)

Do Not Recycle: • Plastics #3–#7 (Look for the identifiable symbol on the product.)

• Plastics #1 & #2 (go to trash, unless they are bottles, jugs, jars) • Glass of any kind • Plastic (Loose or bags of any kind/color.

Return plastic bags to a store that has plastic bag recycling.)

• Pizza boxes • Shredded paper or envelopes with filmed plastic windows • Foam cups and containers • Food or liquid • Bagged items (Do not place recyclable items in plastic bags.)

When in Doubt, Throw It Out! 44

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

With each new year comes change, and 2019 is no exception.

On January 1, 2019, big changes are coming to the curbside recycling program, not only in Upper St. Clair, but throughout the region and the entire country. Beginning in January, fewer items will be accepted for recycling.

Why the changes?

Recently, the recycling industry has been faced with a number of challenges. Early in 2018, China announced that it would ban 24 items from being imported as recyclables, including mixed plastics. In addition to the materials ban, new contamination requirements were also announced, which require recyclers to produce material with less than 0.5% contamination.

Contamination occurs when items that don’t belong in the recycling bin are placed there. Once the residue ends up in recyclables, it has the potential to turn the entire load into trash and increase processing costs. With contamination of curbside recycling material currently at 25–30%, Waste Management, our Township’s recycling servicer, is focused on eliminating residue before it reaches the recycling facility.

Beginning January 1, 2019, Waste Management will begin to spot check recycling bins at the curb. If a bin is considered heavily contaminated, it will be left behind as trash.

How can I make sure I am recycling good, quality material?

The best materials to recycle are plastic bottles, jugs, and jars; aluminum, bi-metal, and steel cans; paper; and cardboard. If you are unsure about an item, it should be thrown out as trash. Make sure all material is placed loose in your recycling bin (not bagged).

When in doubt, throw it out!

Do not contaminate recyclable material by placing garbage items in your recycling bins. While you may think you are doing a good thing by recycling certain materials previously accepted as recyclable, not abiding by the new, more limited recycling list will contaminate the entire recycle bin, resulting in avoidable, higher program costs.

So remember, if you’re not sure whether an item should be recycled, please throw it in the trash. While this may initially sound counter-intuitive, it is better to have a smaller collection of acceptable recyclables than to have non-accepted items in a recycle bin that will cause the entire load to go to trash.

What else should I know?

Beginning April 1, 2019, the Township of Upper St. Clair will begin automation of garbage (trash) collection. Delivered to each resident will be a large-sized Township-issued garbage bin. Look for further details in the Township-issued recycle/refuse brochure due out later this year, the spring issue of TODAY that comes out in March, and on the Township website at www.twpusc.org, and other Township-related social media. Stay tuned! n

To dispose of an item that is no longer acceptable as part of the curbside collection program, visit www.Earth911.com or www.RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com for more information. Based on market conditions, the list of recyclables can change at any time.

Winter 2018

T Why Curbside Recycling Is Changing Ron Sarrick, Retired Sustainability Coordinator Just when you think you’ve finally got it all figured out, the plastics number system is about to be disrupted! You’ve learned that you should recycle #1 through #7, but not #6. The Township has been keeping track of your efforts for many years.

Sorry to say this, but beginning in 2019, it’s time to start over!

Here’s why. America has been shipping tons of recycling to overseas markets. In particular, China is one of U.S.’s largest purchasers of recycled goods. However, the rate of material contamination in the recyclable lot has become too large and certain recyclable materials have become less desirable. As a result, China has placed a ban on imported recycled materials with more than 0.5% contamination.

“To put this in perspective, most of our recycling contamination has an average rate of 25%,” said Brent Bell, Waste Management vice president of recycling operations. “This means that roughly one in four items placed in a recycling container is actually not recyclable….” (NY Times article by Livia AlbeckRipka, May 29, 2018.)

There is an excessive amount of non-recyclable items placed in recycling bins for curbside pickup. Among the easiest to keep out, yet the most dominate, are plastic bags. These range in variety from the thin film bags that you get at the grocery store (many blue in color) to others that come with packages from shipments of a wide range of products. Many of the bags have a recycling symbol placed on them, which gives the impression that they are recyclable. They are, but not at curbside! Take them back to your grocery store. Most retail grocery stores provide a bin to place this film (or bags) for recyclable collection.

Even more offensive, other items found at curbside recycling are plastic and glass containers that are unemptied, hazardous waste, garden hoses, containers with needles, Christmas lights, Styrofoam, diapers, parts of storm doors, wire shelving… and the list goes on and on. We all need to be more diligent in recycling only those items that are specified for curbside recycling, which can change from year to year.

For example, in 2019 glass is no longer eligible for curbside recycling. Glass will now go in the trash. Why? As you might imagine, glass breakage can be dangerous for workers’ safety on the sorting line and the cost for equipment handling is expensive.

Also, shards of broken glass can become embedded in surrounding paper and cardboard recyclables, rendering them contaminated and, therefore, useless in the marketplace.

During a tour at the recycling plant in Pittsburgh’s Neville Island a few years ago, I was surprised to find a horrible visual in the glass containment area. It was so littered with paper and bottle caps, I initially thought it was a reject pile. But, I was told, in fact, it was clean glass. At that time, the glass was actually reduced into very tiny pieces (or shards) for market.

The recent marketplace has not been prosperous for recycling some of the above mentioned materials. The graph shows the declining market value over the past seven years. As you can easily see, a higher grade of recyclables is key for market success.

Therefore, and starting with your household recyclable bin, there is greater need for contamination control. Public education will go a long way to introduce and help reinforce creating avenues toward better consumer recycling habits. Please take a moment to learn what is and what is not recyclable and then put your knowledge into action. USC can have a successful recycling program, and it starts with you! n

How Can I Recycle Other Items?

Upper St. Clair Township Library accepts the following items for recycling (the list is subject to change at any time): • Cell Phones • Ink Cartridges • Rechargeable Batteries • Eye Glasses Retire Old Glory The C&RC accepts tattered, faded, and torn American flags in the “Retire Old Glory” bin located in the lobby of the C&RC. Retire Old Glory ceremonies are conducted by Boy Scouts of America to burn the flags with honor.

E-cycling Program Date: December 8, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (monthly, except February) Location: C&RC parking lot (Anything with an electrical cord, including large appliances. $15 charge for Freon removal. One TV per drop-off per vehicle.)

Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection Collection will take place two remaining Saturdays in 2018: November 17 and December 1.

Other Opportunities to Recycle Visit: www.Earth911.com or www.RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com.

Look for full information regarding curbside trash and recycling and other forms of recycling available to USC Township residents in the 2019 Trash & Recycling brochure.

Winter 2018

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National Flood Insurance Programs

Rachel McClaine, USC Township Administrative Intern There were an overwhelming number of flood victims this year, especially in Allegheny County. Many of these victims are seeking help, but most homeowners, business owners, and renters do not have flood insurance. Private coverage can be unreliable and expensive. A great option for flood victims seeking help is the National Flood Insurance Programs (NFIP).

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

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

Covered Building Property: • Plumbing systems • Furnaces and water heaters • Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances, such as dishwashers • Permanently installed carpeting over an unfinished floor • Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases, and cabinets.

The damage must be directly caused by flood water. Cabinets that were not damaged by flood water are not covered, even if they match cabinets that were damaged by flood water.

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

Covered Personal Property Contents: • Personal belongings, including clothing, furniture, and electronic equipment • Curtains • Portable and window air conditioners (easily moved or relocated) • Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers • Carpets not included in building coverage (carpet installed over wood floors, etc.)

• Clothing washers and dryers • Certain valuable items, including original artwork and furs (up to $2500) • Food freezers (other than walk-ins), including the food in them Not Covered for Building or Personal Property: • Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner or which is not attributable to the flood • Damage caused by earth movement, even if the earth movement is caused by the flood • Additional living expenses, including temporary housing, while the building is being repaired or is unable to be occupied • Loss of use or access of the insured property • Financial losses caused by business interruption • Property and belongings outside of an insured building, including trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools • Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers, such as stock certificates 46

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• Most self-propelled vehicles, including cars and their parts Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor: • Flood insurance coverage is limited to areas below the lowest elevated floor, including crawlspaces, depending on the flood zone and date of construction and in basements regardless of zone or date of construction. This includes: o Basements o Crawlspaces under an elevated building o Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-store foundation walls (sometimes referred to as “walkout basements”) o Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor-Covered Building Property: • Foundation walls, anchorage systems, and staircases attached to the building • Central air conditioners • Cisterns and the water in them • Drywall for walls and ceilings (in basement only) • Non-flammable insulation (in basement only) • Electrical outlets, switches, and circuit-breaker boxes • Fuel tanks and the fuel in them, solar energy equipment, and well water tanks and pumps • Furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, and sump pumps Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor-Covered Personal Property: • Washers and dryers • Food freezers and the food in them, but not refrigerators • Portable and window air conditioners Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated Floor-Not Covered Under Building or Personal Property: • Paneling, bookcases, and window treatments, including curtains and blinds • Carpeting, area carpets, and other floor coverings, such as tile • Drywall for walls and ceilings (below the lowest elevated floor) • Walls and ceilings not made of drywall • In certain cases, staircases and elevators • Most personal property, such as clothing, electronic equipment, kitchen supplies, and furniture NFIP Contact Information Website: https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program Phone: 800-621-FEMA / 800-427-4661 Email: floodsmart@fema.dhs.gov This summary is intended for informational purposes only and is not a complete description of the NFIP. Visit the FEMA website and contact your insurance company for complete information before purchasing a policy. A list of private insurance companies that sell the NFIP can be found at https://www.fema.gov/wyo_company. If your agent does not sell NFIP, contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661. Background about NFIP flood insurance and about the claims process can be found at http://www.fema.gov/information-property-owners.

The Township of Upper St. Clair would like to thank County Councilwoman Sue Means and her staff for compiling this information regarding the NFIP.

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

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

1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to a minimum. Public Works and Police phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls only during storm situations.

The Township is as eager as you to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads such as Route 19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort Couch Road, and Mayview Road are plowed first as a matter of public safety and for emergency vehicles.

7. The Township receives numerous calls regarding sidewalks not being adequately maintained during heavy snow periods.

Sidewalks with unshoveled snow may cause problems for residents, school children, mail carriers, delivery persons, etc. Chapter 109 of the Township Code states that the standard removal time of snow and ice from sidewalks is within 12 hours after the snow or ice has ceased to fall or be formed. There are several Township-owned sidewalks that are posted “No Winter Maintenance” and are not covered under this ordinance.

8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

They are for your safety.

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

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

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

Some considerations regarding the snow removal services that you receive as a resident of USC include: 1. The Public Works Department must be alert to air temperatures and road surface temperatures. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective to about 23° Fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°, road surfaces will require additions of liquid calcium chloride. Traffic causes rock salt to act more quickly, so streets with heavier traffic will show the results of sodium chloride application sooner than less traveled roadways.

2. Air Science Consultants are contracted by the Township and available on a 24hour basis to provide periodic advance weather forecasting.

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

2. Do not shovel or plow snow back into the streets. This is a violation of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and creates additional traffic safety problems.

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

www.twpusc.org

Public Works Snow Removal— How It Works

The Public Works Department is on call 24 hours a day to help residents with snow removal emergencies and related situations. During severe snow situations where plowing is needed, the main state and Township roads have priority, which in some cases requires residential roadways to be designated secondary priority.

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

The department is currently contracted to perform snow and ice removal on all state-owned roadways within the Township, including Route 19, Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, and McMillan Road. It does not have maintenance responsibilities for Allegheny County-owned roadways, including Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, and Drake Road.

Winter 2018

4. The Public Works Department minimizes the use of chemicals by plowing whenever possible. Generally, accumulations over one inch with additional snow predicted may require plowing as dictated by temperatures and information obtained from Air Science Consultants.

5. Constant monitoring of road conditions helps the Public Works administration coordinate snow removal actions to ensure total roadway coverage. All snow removal vehicle drivers assist and back each other up to ensure effective roadway salting and plowing.

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

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

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

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40 YEARS

Tri-Community South EMS 40th Anniversary… a Look at the Fourth Decade Becky Brindle

For the past year, USC TODAY

has helped celebrate the 40th anniversary of Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) with a special article about each decade. Readers have learned about a lot of changes that occurred throughout the last 40 years. Equipment is more technologically advanced, ambulances are improved, and certification is more extensive.

However, one thing has not changed.

The service remains dedicated and includes hard-working employees who are happy to help their fellow citizens. “The care we give is very solid,” said supervisor Kevin Trichtinger.

Tri-Community South EMS fleet in 2017

TCS has earned numerous awards and recognitions during the last ten years.

This past June, TCS received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services for its compliance with national standards of excellence. TCS is one of approximately 180 ambulance services in the country to

successfully complete the voluntary review process, which includes completion of a comprehensive application and on-site review by national experts in emergency medical services. TCS has received this recognition every three years since 2006 (see article on page 49).

Since 2015, TCS has participated in the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS program, recognizing the need for better comprehensive care for those suffering from cardiovascular emergencies. TCS has been awarded Silver, Gold, and Bronze-Plus recognition in the program.

In December 2013, TCS received recognition at the Master level in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s EMS for Children Voluntary Recognition Program.

The multi-level system requires compliance with basic equipment standards, ChildLine background clearances for all personnel, advanced pediatric education for providers, and community outreach programs. As a result of the inspections and documentation gathered and provided, TCS was awarded recognition at the highest level. It made TCS among the first 20 EMS agencies in Pennsylvania to be recognized at the Master level.

Thirteen TCS employees have been recommended for and have received the Star of Life award since the program’s

Tri-Community South EMS Honor Guard, May 2009 48

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TCS director Nora Helfrich (center) with Dave Britton (left) and Steve Britton (right), both of whom received the 2018 Star of Life award

implementation in 2007. The Stars of Life award is given to EMS providers who particularly exemplify the “efforts and importance of the job our everyday heroes provide to the residents of the Commonwealth.” Most recently in 2018, TCS’s Dave Britton and Steve Britton were honored as the first father/son Star of Life awardees at a ceremony in Harrisburg.

In November 2008, TCS director Nora Helfrich was recognized by the Emergency Medical Service Institute (EMSI) for her outstanding contributions to EMS in southwestern Pennsylvania.

Tri-Community South EMS booth at the 2017 Upper St. Clair Community Day

The dedication of TCS employees is also evident through their years of service. Four TCS employees have more than 30 years of service under their belts. Ten employees have more than 20 years. “We see people when they’re having their worst days, and we get to help them,” said Kevin. “We have the opportunity to positively affect people’s lives.”

Unfortunately, in the past decade, the pool of qualified paramedic applicants has declined.

Officials at TCS hope more young people will consider a career as a paramedic. “It’s certainly not a boring job. Every day is different,” said Kevin.

TCS, a membership-driven organization, has also experienced a falling subscriber base in the last few years. “Insurance companies have severely limited ambulance reimbursement,” said Kevin. “It’s an absolute reason why residents should subscribe.”

Due to more EMS services going out of business and a decrease of EMTs and paramedics going into the profession, the support from the Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park communities is more important than ever. No tax dollars are used to fund TCS. Won’t you consider subscribing for an annual fee of just $60? Annual subscriptions that include medical transport coverage not only protect you and your household members and guests, they go a long way to help support your EMS service today and, hopefully, for another 40 years. n

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Tri-Community South Subscribe Today

Subscription brochures for the 2019 campaign drive were mailed to Tri-Community South EMS’s three communities at the end of October. If you’ve not yet subscribed for the coming year, please do so. With your help, TCS can, and will, be ready to help you!

So, why subscribe? Many people incorrectly assume that their health insurance will pay all ambulance fees; however, this is not the case. Whatever is not covered by insurance becomes the responsibility of the patient and can exceed $600 for a single ambulance trip. No insurance plan pays for an ambulance visit to a residence that results in treatment without transportation to a hospital. The fee for this service, which can run between $200 and $250, is the sole responsibility of the patient. These charges, however, can be reduced by joining TCS as a subscriber. For a fee of $60 a year, each household family member is protected from incurring unnecessary bills for emergency ambulance service.

In 2019, the following applies: • When subscribers are transported via ambulance, TCS accepts the insurance reimbursement and the subscriber is responsible for only 50% of the copay or the deductible not covered by the subscriber’s insurance policy.

• For subscribers receiving treatment without transport, subscribers are responsible for only 50% of the fee for this service.

• Lift assists are a non-covered expense. n If any group or organization would like to have a speaker from TCS attend a meeting to talk about the subscription plan or any other topic related to emergency healthcare, contact TCS at 412-831-3710, extension 109.

TCS Receives Accreditation

TCS supervisor Will Thomas teaches a Stop the Bleed class in 2017. School districts and police and fire departments took the class offered by TCS.

See other TCS articles on this page and pages 52 and 53.To learn more, visit tcsems.org.

Tri-Community South (TCS) EMS has received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services for its compliance with national standards of excellence. TCS is one of approximately 180 ambulance services in the country to successfully complete the voluntary review process, which included completion of a comprehensive application and on-site review by national experts in emergency medical services. With this achievement, TCS becomes the third ambulance service to be accredited in Pennsylvania.

The commission is a non-profit organization that was established to encourage and promote quality patient care in America’s medical transportation system. The primary focus of its standards is high-quality patient care. This is accomplished by establishing national standards that not only address the delivery of patient care, but also the ambulance service’s total operation and its relationships with other agencies, the general public, and the medical community. These standards often exceed state or local licensing requirements.

Upper St. Clair Township Manager Matthew Serakowski said accreditation “represents the Township’s firm commitment to Tri-Community South’s patients and to our community. We continually strive to do our best and we view accreditation as another step toward excellence.”

“TCS staff has been key to our successful completion of the process.

Everyone played a valuable role in our organization’s ability to meet the commission’s high standards,” said Nora Helfrich, TCS director. “To work in an accredited ambulance service gives us the feeling of pride and prestige.

And while we have achieved this accreditation, I believe it is only a stimulus for continued improvement.” n Winter 2018

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Township Reminders 2018 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Holiday Collection Date Thanksgiving.....Friday, November 23 for the normal Thursday collection Christmas...........Thursday, December 27 for the normal Wednesday

collection and Friday, December 28 for the normal

Thursday collection New Year............Thursday, January 3 for regular Wednesday collection.

and Friday, January 4 for regular Thursday collection.

2018 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection will take place the remaining two Saturdays in 2018: November 17 and December 1.

Township of Upper St. Clair’s Christmas Tree Recycling Project December 26, 2018 – January 31, 2019 The trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use.

Please remove all lights, decorations, and plastic tree bags!

Tree drop off will be at the empty lot across from the P u b l i c Wo r k s B u i l d i n g on Truxton Drive. Check the Township website at w w w. t w p u s c . o r g , v i e w Cable 7, or call 412-831-9000, ext. 271, if you need more information.

Attention Dog Owners

Deer Management Update

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

by January 1 of each year.

The Allegheny County application is available at: • The Upper St. Clair Police Department • The Upper St. Clair Reception Desk • Online at www.county.allegheny.pa.us/treasure/dog.aspx The Upper St. Clair license, which should be obtained in January of each year, is a “Pet License.” Chapter 41 of the Township Code defines a pet as “any dog, cat, or other domesticated animal kept for pleasure rather than utility.”

The Upper St. Clair license application is available at: • The Upper St. Clair Reception Desk • Online (PDF) at www.twpusc.org There is no charge for the Upper St. Clair license, but proof of rabies vaccination is required.

Upper St. Clair Township continues its partnership with Whitetail Management Associates and contracts with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an all-time high number of reported deer-vehicle collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts, and last year the total number of accidents involving deer was 39. The deer population in some areas of the Township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in portions of the Township, there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer-vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level.

The Township is fortunate to have residents assist in its efforts by offering private property for the culling programs. Residents who would like consideration for inclusion in private property culling for the Deer Management program should contact Debi Bakowski, Township personnel, at 412-831-9000.

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Donovic Promoted to Sergeant This past June, the Upper St. Clair Police Department promoted patrolman Joel Donovic to sergeant. With the department since January 2011, Sgt. Donovic’s prior experience was as a member of the Ohio Township Police Department. Sgt. Donovic earned his BA in administration of justice from the University of Pittsburgh. He has extensive training in DUI detection and participates in South Hills DUI Task Force events. He is also certified as a child safety-seat technician. n

Left to right: USC Township Assistant Manager Mark Mansfield, Chief of Police Jon Wharton, Judge Ron Arnoni, Sgt. Joel Donovic, Lt. Curt Gallatin, USC Township Manager Matthew Serakowski

New Police Chief Sworn In Jonathan Wharton worked his way through the ranks in the Township and was sworn in this past August as the new chief of police of Upper St. Clair.

Chief Wharton, 48, joined the department 27 years ago. Former USC police chief and current USC commissioner Ronald Pardini hired Jon as a patrolman.

“It’s a great feeling to see someone develop into his full potential. He’s a fine young man, very community-oriented. He has all the necessary training and will be a very fine chief. I’m proud of him,” said Ron.

Left to right: USC Chief of Police Jon Wharton, Lauren Wharton, USC Township Manager Matthew Serakowski

Chief Wharton was the first patrolman Township Manager Matthew Serakowski promoted to sergeant. “I have total confidence in Jon to serve as our chief of police.

He has a proven record for commitment to the community and to the department,” said Matt.

The Board of Commissioners’ president Mark Christie also has full trust in Jon as chief of police. “We realize that he’s a very qualified candidate. He will do a great job guiding the Township,” said Mark.

An Upper St. Clair High School graduate, Jon joined the USC police department in 1991, was promoted to sergeant in 2012 and to lieutenant in 2017. He earned his bachelor of arts degree from the University of Pittsburgh and his master’s degree in legal studies from California University of Pennsylvania. Earlier this year, Jon graduated from the FBI National Academy. A firearms, Taser, baton, and self-defense instructor, his professional police training also includes ACTAR collision reconstruction and computer voice stress analysis (CVSA)/truth verification.

Jon recognized the most influential people in his career and thanked former USC police chiefs Pardini and Douglas Burkholder and police officers past and Winter 2018

Chief Jon Wharton was sworn in by the Honorable D. Michael Fisher, Senior United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

present for their leadership and guidance. He also thanked former and current Township commissioners and Township Manager Serakowski for believing in him.

Lastly, he gave a heartfelt thank you to his family and wife, Lauren, who was honored to pin him with his new chief stars.

Jon takes over for former police chief Douglas Burkholder, who retired earlier this year. “I vow to the citizens of Upper St. Clair Township that I will fulfill this title to the best of my ability,” said Jon. n Shown on the Table of Contents (page 4) is a photo of the Wharton family, left to right: Greg, Andrew, Jon, Lauren, Eric UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Meet Jacque Rowden, USC’s New IT Director

Upper St. Clair Township’s new Information Technology (IT) director, Jacque Rowden, took time to answer a few questions for TODAY. Continue reading to learn more about this talented leader!

Name: Jacque Rowden Education: BS in biology from Excelsior Work history: Managing IT teams for Jacque Rowden NYC law firms through 1998, relocated to Pittsburgh to work for Buchanan Ingersoll (now Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney) in 1998, FreeMarkets, Orrick, Herrington (law firm in Wheeling, WV), built a help desk team and profitable ($15M annual revenue exiting 2017) business at Continuum IT Management Platform (2013–18), now IT director for the Township of Upper St. Clair Spouse: Robert Press, a senior respiratory therapist in the trauma unit of UPMC Presbyterian Hospital Children: son, Sam Press, 28, sous chef at Monterey Bay Fish Groto in Mt. Washington; daughter, Alex Press, 26, assistant editor of Jacobin and labor journalist Pets: Always two cats, currently Twitch and Little Man Hobbies: Cooking, movies, and finding new places to visit (recent barbecue tour of Kansas City) and things to do (recent Boyd and Blair vodka distillery tour) with my husband What she likes best about her job: The great team at USC Township, and particularly the IT team and the opportunity to identify improvement opportunities n

Public Access Television

Upper St. Clair Public Access Television, under the Department of Information Technology, provides an opportunity to share information and events with the other residents in the Township. Training and access to production equipment can be provided to those interested in producing a program. Programs are cablecast on Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42 and are also made available on a video-ondemand service whose content can be accessed through the Township’s website at twpusc.org/video-gallery.

Also as a community service is the community bulletin board Video Newspaper. It displays information about events and meetings of interest for the community. Announcements should be submitted by email to usccable@twpusc.org. n

For additional information, the channel’s staff can be reached at 412-831-1030 or by email at usccable@twpusc.org.

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How Reliable Is a BMI Number?

John D’Angelo, Tri-Community South, EMS Anyone who has spent any amount of time in a waiting room of a doctor’s office knows what a BMI chart looks like because these charts are usually placed somewhere on the wall, and we look at them simply to relieve the boredom of our wait.

For anyone who does not know, a BMI (body mass index) chart shows a ratio of body height to body weight in an attempt to determine an individual’s overall health. To use the chart, simply find the intersection of your height and weight, then find the number for that intersecting point. Finally, find where your number ranks against the general population.

If your number is between 18 and 25, you fall into the healthy category. Between 25 and 30 is the overweight category, and above 30 is considered the obese category.

Seems pretty straightforward and simple, right? Except the BMI number has been a source of controversy. Most of the controversy surrounds the fact that a diagnosis concerning a patient’s health cannot be determined solely on the basis of one number.

Other factors, including medical history, genetic background, and lifestyle must also be considered.

And, since the BMI uses simple body weight in its calculation, the index does not differentiate between body weight made up of fat verses heavier body weight from muscle. This difference means that a muscular person will mistakenly be placed in the obese category because his or her muscle density would be greater than that of a less muscular person.

Do these drawbacks mean that a BMI number is useless in determining the overall health of an individual? Of course, the answer is that a BMI number is useful when it is used in conjunction with other determining factors, including body fat percentage and muscle-to-fat ratio. Used together, BMI numbers can lead medical professionals to a more accurate picture of a person’s overall health.

Everyone must understand that a healthy lifestyle consisting of a balanced diet and a regular exercise regimen is more important than an obsession with numbers. Such an obsession inevitably leads a person to so-called “quick fixes,” including fad diets and the purchasing of sometimes useless, but expensive, exercise equipment.

So, the next time you see a BMI chart in a doctor’s waiting room, check your number, but remember that this number is only one indicator out of many possible indicators of your overall health. Members at Tri-Community South remind our neighbors that the best way to determine your overall health is through reliable, frequent check-ups with a primary care physician. n

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Concussion Quiz John D’Angelo, Tri-Community South EMS

How much do you know about concussions? Answer the following questions as either true or false.

Questions: 1. All concussions are caused by a blow to the head.

True or False 2. It is possible to have a concussion and not realize it.

True or False 3. Amnesia or loss of memory is a common concussion symptom. True or False 4. All head injuries to a child should be seen by a doctor.

True or False 5. The effects of a concussion are usually temporary.

True or False 6. Most concussions involve a temporary loss of consciousness.

True or False 7. Some concussion symptoms may not appear for days after the actual injury. True or False 8. Automobile accidents are the foremost cause of concussions in older adults. True or False 9. A person who has had a concussion is at a greater risk for further concussions. True or False 10. Most people fully recover after suffering a concussion.

True or False Answers: 1. False. Although most concussions result from a blow to the head, concussions can also be caused by forcefully shaking the head, neck, and/or the upper body.

2. True. Because concussions symptoms vary so widely and are dependent on the nature of the injury, it is possible to have a concussion without realizing it.

3. True. Amnesia is a common symptom of a concussion.

However, what is usually forgotten are the circumstances of the event that caused the concussion.

4. True. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children who experience a head injury, except for the lightest of bumps, be seen by a physician.

5. True. The time it takes to fully recover from a concussion depends on the severity of the trauma to the brain. The recovery period can last from several days to several weeks.

Most people usually recover from the effects of a concussion.

6. False. Although a concussion can result in a temporary loss of consciousness, most concussions do not result in such a loss.

7. True. Some concussion symptoms such as headaches usually appear immediately after the trauma occurs. However, some symptoms such as sensitivity to light and noise or difficulty concentrating are slower developing and may not appear for days or even several weeks after the actual traumatic event.

8. False. Most concussions in older adults are caused by falls, most of which occur in the home.

9. True. Those who have had a concussion or concussions in the past are more susceptible to having concussions in the future.

10. True. The key to a full recovery is to seek medical treatment for any event in which a concussion results.

Members at Tri-Community South hope everyone takes appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of concussions by wearing protective head gear such as helmets while participating in any activity that could result in head injuries, keeping your seat belts buckled while in a motor vehicle, and keeping your floors and stairs free from tripping hazards. n

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Winter 2018

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Common Fire Hazards Russ Rauch, Vice-President, USC VFD

Every year, house fires claim the lives of more than 2500 people and cause nearly $7 billion in damages. While the number of house fire deaths are dropping (largely due to fire safety awareness), it’s a number that is still far too high for something that is often preventable.

When it comes to household fires, heroics don’t start with firefighters, they start at home with you. Keep in mind that when discussing this topic, awareness is not enough. To read the following tips and do nothing is a disservice to your family and home. By following and acting upon the tips in this article, you can increase the odds of making sure that a firefighter never has to risk his life running into your burning home, and that if he does, your family will be safe and sound somewhere outside.

Over three-quarters of all home fires come from common hazards. Knowing what these hazards are and how to best prevent them will go a long way towards protecting your family and your house.

Cooking—with microwaves, using cooking oil, using fryers— leads to more house fires than any other source. But by far, the greatest factor in kitchen fires is simply unattended cooking.

• Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, especially when using oil or high temperatures.

• Be sure that all heating elements are turned off immediately after cooking is done.

• Keep combustible items like dish towels and loose clothing away from cooking surfaces.

• Bear in mind that Thanksgiving (and holidays in general) leads the way in terms of most the dangerous single day for cooking fires, so be extra careful.

Heating equipment, including your furnace, fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, etc.

• Clean and inspect chimneys and fireplaces once a year. This is the leading cause of heating-related house fires.

• Inspect your furnace each year, changing filters regularly.

Consider having air ducts professionally cleaned to prevent the accumulation of dust.

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• Never set clothes or shoes on a radiator or space heater to dry.

• Space heaters account for one-third of heating fires. Keep flammable material at least three feet away from the heat source, and make sure the heater is placed on an even and stable surface. Never leave space heaters on overnight or when you leave the house (a good option are timed space heaters that turn off after one to four hours of use). Only use space heaters that have automatic shut off when tipped over.

Electrical equipment, including electric appliances, lighting, outlets, and wiring.

• Check all appliances and lighting sources for frayed or damaged cords. Immediately unplug and replace any cords that are found to be frayed or damaged.

• Use tamper resistant (TR) outlets. The average home has 75 outlets, and we all know how kids are tempted to stick things in there. TR outlets utilize small shutters so that only a plug with two/three prongs can be inserted.

• Don’t overload outlets with high-wattage devices. Be especially wary of this in bathrooms and kitchens, and spread out your appliances as best as you can. It is recommended to only have one high-wattage device per outlet.

• If you have regular problems with an outlet or wiring (sparking, frequent blown fuse, constant flickering in lights, etc.), immediately contact an electrician to correct the problem rather than letting it fester.

• For lighting, use bulbs that match or are below the fixture’s maximum recommended wattage.

• Only use extension cords as temporary devices. If you are using an extension cord full-time in your house or garage, install another outlet.

• Don’t run extension cords under rugs, carpet, furniture, etc.

Cords can get warm, and if the cord frays or wears out, it poses a fire hazard.

Candles are often seen as the number one fire hazard (they aren’t), but with a few small measures, you can nearly eliminate the chance of a candle-causing house fire.

• As you can imagine, winter is the most dangerous time for candles, with Christmas and New Year’s Eve/Day being the worst days. Be aware, especially on holidays when wrapping paper is scattered about.

• One-third of candle fires start in the bedroom. Sure, have a romantic evening, but place all candles on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.

• Keep candles at least a foot away from anything that will easily burn. More than half of candle fires start because they Legend: came in contact with a combus1) Space heater 2) Congested outlet tible material.

3) Microwave • Blow out all candles when leav4) Frying pan ing a room.

5) Oven • Keep candles out of the reach 6) Cooking oil 7) Candles of children.

8) Barbecue Accidents involving children 9) Lit cigarettes happen frequently. We all know 10) Christmas tree that kids love fire. Combine that 11, 12) Washer, dryer 13) Furnace with their insatiable curiosity, and

you have a potential disaster on your hands. Heed the following tips to make sure your kids stay safe: • Keep anything with a possible open flame out of the reach of kids, including lighters, matches, and candles.

• Most of the fires in this category are caused by kids under the age of ten who play with matches and lighters. Even if you remove or securely stow away fire sources, it seems as if kids still find ways to play with fire. Most often, they know it’s bad, so they will play with fire in their rooms or closets.

Be sure to check on your kids regularly (especially if doors are closed and they are being extra quiet), know how many lighters or match boxes are in the house and where they are, and have a family discussion if you find melted toys or burned spots on clothing.

• The best thing you can do is to teach your children about fire and fire safety. Teach them the human escape plan, the sound of the smoke alarm, and even how to use fire as a tool. When they get old enough, let them help with the fire pit in your backyard or with burning the brush in the fall (if legal in your area, of course). Taking the mystery out of fire is a good way to decrease a child’s curiosity.

Flammable liquids, including gasoline, cleaning agents, paints, adhesives, etc. Vapors can ignite from high temperatures or small sparks from static electricity or other sources. Don’t store flammables in the house near a heating source, but rather outside of the house in a cool, well-ventilated area.

Christmas trees and holiday decorations account for hundreds of house fires each year. It’s easy to enjoy how nice everything looks without realizing its potential hazard.

• Christmas trees are the worst offender in this category. Real trees need lots of watering, so keep it in a stand that can hold two to three liters of water and top it off daily. A dry tree with lights that can get hot when left on too long can be a deadly combination.

• Keep the tree away from heat sources, including radiators, fireplaces, space heaters, etc.

• Keep lit candles at least 12 inches away from a Christmas tree.

• If using an artificial tree, make sure it’s flame retardant.

• Ensure that your decorations don’t interfere with your fire escape plan. Do not block windows or doorways, if possible.

• Don’t leave holiday lights on unattended—both on the tree and outside the house. This is a toughie, as we all like to come home to a beautifully-lit house. So, if nothing else, limit them to only a few hours if you’re away. Don’t leave them on overnight or while you’re away for multiple days.

• Check your holiday lights before putting them on the tree or the house. Be sure there are no frays or broken bulbs that could have an exposed element.

• Don’t overload your outlets. As much as your inner being wants to light up the whole world like Clark Griswold, don’t do it! He’s lucky his power outage didn’t turn into a more serious problem.

Clothes dryers can be fire catalysts. Being that lint is a fantastic fire starter, it makes sense that an ill-maintained dryer can pose a serious fire threat.

• While not common these days, refrain from using a dryer that doesn’t have a lint filter.

• Clean the lint filter after each load and clean lint from around the drum, and around the lint filter housing.

• At least once a year, check the air exhaust pipe at the exterior of the home to ensure there is no blockage. While the dryer is running, you should feel (and smell) the fresh laundry air coming out.

• Don’t leave the dyer on overnight or while you’re away from the house.

• Don’t overload the dryer, as it can lead to an excess of lint.

Many of these tips are common sense, and yet when we have other things on our mind (especially at dinnertime or around the holidays) we can lose track of these basic precautions. You can never play it too safe with fire prevention. The most valuable things in the world—our families and home—depend on it! n As always, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department is ready to help and to answer your questions concerning fire safety. For nonemergency questions, call 412-835-0660.

Get Ready for Santa’s Visit

Santa stops for a friendly visit

Once again, members of the USC Volunteer Fire Department will be escorting a very special visitor around Upper St. Clair Township. Santa Claus is coming to town on Saturday, December 8!

Check the USC VFD website at uscvfd.org for a schedule of the approximate time Santa and his sleigh will be on your street. As always, Santa will have helpers from the fire department to answer any questions or concerns that you might have. Contact Santa Central at 412-835-3339 if you need more information.

Take pictures of your friendly neighborhood Santa visit and send them (high resolution photos of at least 1MB each) to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, listing “Santa visit” in the subject line. Place your name in the body of the email to identify from whom they’ve come. Your photos might appear in a future edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY! n Santa and his helpers

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USC Recreation and Leisure Services

Winter Recreation Programs ’Tis the Season for Fitness Thanksgiving Spin-A-Thon Friday, November 23 A great way to burn off that Thanksgiving feast!

Classes are free with a donation.

Three class times: • 9:30–10:30 a.m., one-hour class • 12:30–1:15 p.m., 45-minute class • 1:20–2:05 p.m., 45-minute class ZUMBA® Jingle Jam Saturday, December 8 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

A holiday ZUMBA dance party; wear your festive attire and jingle bells!

Free for C&RC members and nonmembers.

Coming Om for the Holidays Sunday, December 9 12:30–2 p.m.

Breathe deeply, let go of stress, and recharge your body and mind during the busy holiday season!

Free for C&RC members and nonmembers.

Very Merry Mix Saturdays, December 22 and 29 10:15 a.m.–2 p.m.

Three of your favorite group exercise classes rolled into a one-and-a-half-hourlong workout.

Space is limited. A donation of three nonperishable food items is required at time of registration.

Group Exercise Free Trial Session Wednesday, December 26, 2018–Sunday, January 6, 2019 (No class December 31 and January 1) All group exercise classes (excluding Pilates reformer) are free and open to both C&RC members and non-members. This is a great time to try something new!

Fit City Challenge Are you fit?

Whether your goal is to get stronger, lose weight, or both, this will be a true test of physical fitness. Weekly weigh-ins, challenges, and workouts will be provided throughout the program.

Program begins January 2019 (specific days/times TBA). Contact the Recreation Department for more information.

Fee(s): $75 C&RC members

$130 non-members Winter Wellness Dash Saturday, January 12 Noon Start your New Year off right by attending the annual one-mile run/ walk. Open to all ages and fitness levels.

Fee(s): $5 per person (children age 5 and under free) Registration closes at 9 p.m., Friday, January 11.

Valentine’s Day Workout Sunday, February 10 12:30–2:30 p.m.

Fun, partner-based boot camp and yoga classes. Bring your significant other, family member, or friend.

Give the Gift That Keeps on Giving!

25% off all personal training services and nutrition services (Sessions must be purchased between December 1, 2018, and January 31, 2019.)

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Save the Date(s) Holidays at the C&RC Saturday, December 1 11a.m.–2 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season with musical performances, craft making, sweet treats, and a special visit from Santa.

Bring along your camera for some great shots (maybe even holiday worthy)!

Camp December (Winter Break Camp) Wednesday, December 26–Friday, December 28 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Attention parents of Kindergarteners through fourth graders. Do you need something fun for your kids to do over winter break? Kids will have the opportunity to swim, make arts and crafts, and play games in the gym. Register by December 19 to assure a spot.

Fee(s): $70 member/$75 USC resident

non-member/$80 surrounding

community non-member,

$30 per individual day Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Monday, January 21 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Make it a day ON—not a day OFF! Youngsters in grades 1 to 8 can join together to spend part of the day on at the C&RC completing community service projects and part of the day off enjoying lunch together, cooperative games in the gym, and a snack at the end of the day.

Students in grades 7 and 8 will be assigned to assist with younger age groups.

High school and adult volunteers are also welcome on this special day; contact Recreation Department personnel at 412-221-1099, extension 655 or 613, to find out more about volunteer opportunities.

Age requirement: Grades 1-8 (Kindergarteners can participate with adult caregiver) Fee(s): $20 per registrant (includes T-shirt and snack) Register by December 21.

www.twpusc.org 412-221-1099 Seniors

Seniors

Fourth Annual Winter Pickleball Tournament Saturday, February 2 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Calling all pickleballers! Take part in the fourth annual one-day adult (age 16 and up) pickleball tournament. Registration will be accepted for doubles teams of any combination. Pool play or brackets will be created based upon registration. To register, complete the pickleball tournament registration form at the C&RC. Fee(s): $20 per team Registration deadline is January 19.

Silver Card Program Free and available to any residents of Upper St. Clair age 62 or older, the Townshipissued Silver Card permits participation in specific C&RC programs, including: • Chair Yoga • Zumba Gold Sculpt • Zumba Gold • Senior Fit • Water Walking • Hydro Strength • T’ai Chi • Boomer Balance & Flexibility For more information, see additional Silver Card information on this page.

ACCESS 65 PLUS is a shared-ride transportation service program for senior citizens age 65 and older. Contact Lynn Walcoff, community programs coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext.

655, for information about this program and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen identification card for the Port Authority Transit (PAT) system.

Directory of Important Numbers

United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair group meets on Wednesdays. Morning activities are informal and include the preparation of lunch by group volunteers. Members hold a brief business meeting at noon, followed by a delicious meal. Afternoon activities include musical entertainment, lectures or presentations of interest, book reviews, health and fitness instruction, game days, and more! In addition, day trips to various performances and places of interest are scheduled throughout the year.

Meetings are usually held at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC), 1770 McLaughlin Run Road, but the building is currently undergoing renovation.

Therefore, through the end of 2018, the meetings are being held at the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) at Boyce Mayview Park, 1551 Mayview Road.

Beginning in 2019, some meetings may continue to be held at the C&RC or at other venues. Membership information and meeting schedules (including location) are available at the Recreation Department office located at the C&RC. For more information, call 412-221-1099 or email walcoff@twpusc.org.

Age requirement: Age 55 and retired; USC residents only Fee(s): Free USC resident program Gold Card Offered by the USC School District to residents age 62 and older. Proof of age and residency required at time of application. Card admits holder to School District drama and musical performances, athletic events, and other events free of charge.

Applications taken at School District reception desk at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.

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

Applications are available at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park.

For more information about any Older Adult programming, contact the C&RC at 412-221-1099.

Winter 2018

Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency

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

Monday – Friday

Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 216 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 501 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 226 Recreation – 412-221-1099 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 271 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710 Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) 412-835-0660 Library – 412-835-5540 Frequently Called Numbers

Cable 7 (Public Access Television) 412-831-1030 District Judge Ronald Arnoni 412-835-1661 League Of Women Voters 412-261-4284 Post Office – 1-800-275-8777 School District – 412-833-1600 South West Communities Chamber of Commerce – 412-221-4100 Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556 Three-Hole Golf Course 412-831-7556 Utilities & Services

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

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T From the Director’s Desk

Recurring Adult Programs

Helen Palascak, Library Director

Adult Gaming Night Come game with our community! The power of games brings together people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and worldviews. Bring your own favorite game to share, or explore something new from the library’s game collection.

Anyone can play, and all are welcome.

Second Mondays, 7 p.m.: December 10, January 14, February 11

Moving Forward with Literacy

The USC Township Library recently achieved full Gold Star status in the Pennsylvania Library Association’s PA Forward Star Program. This program was created to give recognition to libraries incorporating the five literacies—basic literacy, information literacy, civic and social literacy, health literacy, and financial literacy—into their programs, displays, and services.

By creating collections of materials and presenting programs focused on the five literacies identified in the PA Forward program as essential to success, the library is helping to elevate the quality of life in Upper St. Clair.

Allegheny County libraries with star status as of September 2018: Gold Star Library • Bethel Park Public Library • Bridgeville Public Library • Monroeville Public Library • Mt. Lebanon Public Library • Upper St. Clair Township Library • Western Allegheny Community Library • Whitehall Public Library Silver Star Library • Community Library of Castle Shannon • Jefferson Hills Public Library • Penn Hills Library • South Fayette Township Library • South Park Township Library

Bronze Star Library • Baldwin Borough Public Library • Braddock Carnegie Library • Carnegie Library of McKeesport • Northland Public Library • Oakmont Carnegie Library • Plum Borough Community Library • Shaler/North Hills Library • Wilkinsburg Public Library

Let’s Talk—a Non-Fiction Book Club Lisa DeLucia, Librarian

I really enjoy hosting “Let’s Talk,” the new non-fiction book club at the library. The books we typically read introduce participants to different cultures, historical events, political ideologies, and other interesting topics. For example, we’ve discussed books about people spying on the U.S. for Stalin; the first African American naval aviator hero; the Hmong, a culturally-diverse ethnic group who came to the U.S. as the result of a secret war in Laos; and people’s successes in escaping from North Korea.

One of our participants, Sue, says, “Let’s Talk book club recommends books that are both informative and challenging, ones that I probably would not have read on my own. The monthly discussions provide an opportunity to delve into various subjects and learn how we relate the events to our own understanding and experiences. Conversations are lively!”

The group enjoys sharing their thoughts and views while snacking on refreshments. There’s no limit on the direction the conversations can go. Participants of Let’s Talk will be reading some fascinating non-fiction books late fall, winter, and spring.

The November book choice is Molly’s Game, by Molly Bloom, and the book club will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28. Stop in, pick up the book, and join in the discussion. Check with the library for future book selections and dates. Hope you can make it!

Upper St. Clair Township Library is Feeling Thankful Thanks to the generosity of the Jack Buncher Foundation, all participating Allegheny County libraries received a pro-rated portion of a $125,000 match pool during the September Love YOUR Library fund drive. All donations received during the month of September, up to a maximum of $500 per donor per library, counted toward the match pool. Many thanks to those in our community who participated in this year’s campaign. The library staff sincerely hopes you are enjoying your new library swag! A special thank you to the Jack Buncher Foundation for providing the generous match pool.

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Bring-Your-Own-Book Group No special preparation needed for this newest book group. Just stop by and chat about whatever you happen to be reading.

Third Fridays, 2 p.m.: December 21, January 18, February 15

Adult Programs

Register for adult programs online or call the library at 412-835-5540.

National Novel Writing Month—a Reading Thursday, December 6, 7 p.m.

Join our community’s participants, as well as other area writers, in National Novel Writing Month for a coffeehouse-style reading. Writers, poets, and spoken-word artists should contact the library to register for a performance slot.

Felted Holiday Ornaments Thursday, December 13, 7 p.m.

Fiber artist Judé Ernest will teach you to hand needle felt wool and other fibers into 3D holiday shapes in this hands-on workshop for adults. Felted ornaments make wonderful holiday gifts!

This class is appropriate for beginners and experienced needle felters. Materials are provided. A $5 donation is appreciated.

Music in the Stacks— a Holiday with the Aeolian Winds Monday, December 17, 7 p.m.

Join the Aeolian Winds of Pittsburgh for an evening of beautiful holiday music! This five-piece chamber wind ensemble will share their talents in a free concert of holiday standards and classics. Refreshments will be served.

T Cozy Up With Books Cozy Up With Books is the library’s ladies morning book discussion group. The group meets selected months throughout the year. Copies of the discussion books are available in the library.

Read the book prior to the meeting. New participants welcome!

Cozy Up With Books does not meet December through February. Meetings resume March 2019.

WOW (Women Of Words) Book Group WOW is the library’s ladies’ evening book discussion group. Read the book prior to the meeting.

New participants welcome!

Tuesdays, 7 p.m.: December 4, January 22, February 26 Let’s Talk Book Group Join this nonfiction book discussion group.

Wednesday, November 28, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, February 27, 7 p.m.

All About Hoarding Thursday, January 10, 7 p.m.

Join representatives of Steri-Clean, whose CEO, Cory Chalmers, hosts the A&E show Hoarders, for a tour through the world of hoarding. Come learn about the causes of hoarding, its dangers, and the experiences of professional biohazard cleaners.

Turkish Marbling Two sessions–Thursdays, 7 p.m.: January 17, February 7 Learn the traditional craft of Turkish ebru, a technique for marbling paper and fabrics with gorgeous designs using paint over a trough of water. Craftsman Gulay Baltali will teach attendees this fascinating artform, and participants will create their own artwork to keep!

Rocks and Minerals Date TBA Justin Kistler of Geology Rocks and Minerals shares some of the most beautiful and fascinating rocks and minerals from his collection. Learn about the epic geological forces that shaped these minerals and view ancient fossils.

Yarn Works Make your own projects, share your talents, and meet new people by attending this knitters, crocheters, and fabric artists group.

Second and fourth Tuesdays, 7 p.m.: December 11; January 8, 22; February 12, 26 Express Yourself Writers’ Group The focus of this group is to share writings and to serve as a resource and writing inspiration for one another. Stop in anytime.

Wednesdays, 10 a.m.: December 5, 19; January 2, 16, 30; February 13, 27 Creativity Cafe Makers of every kind are invited to join in for a monthly exploration of the creative process!

Support each other’s efforts and experiment with tools to spark your creativity.

First Fridays, 2 p.m.: December 7, January 4, February 1

CPR Training Monday, January 28, 7 p.m.

Students will learn the critical skills needed to respond to and manage an emergency situation until emergency medical services arrive in this hands-on class. Students who complete the class will receive certification from the American Heart Association.

Fee: $40 per person. Payment due at the time of event. Cash or check accepted. Checks payable to Tri-Community South EMS. Kathleen George Thursday, January 31, 7 p.m.

Pittsburgh author Kathleen George will read and discuss her 2018 novel The Blues Walked In, which follows a young Lena Horne as she navigates early musical fame in Pittsburgh’s Hill District. Themes of family, education, race, and class inform this vivid portrait of Pittsburgh in the 1930s and ’40s, told with “sparkling creativity.” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) Valentine’s Day Tea with Audrey Abbott Iacone Thursday, February 14, 2 p.m.

Join in for an elegant Valentine’s Day tea with romance author Audrey Abbott Iacone. Her Audrey Abbot Iacone presentation will include a discussion of her recent novel, The Lady’s Desire, as well as a history of the popularity of romance books and a light-hearted look at the five “heat” levels of modern romance novels, featuring authors like Debbie Macomber and Sylvia Day. Winter 2018

Vintage Radio Players This group meets biweekly to read classic scripts, and will perform at local personal care homes and in the library. With the help of an experienced group leader, the group will reenact chosen shows as they were originally broadcast.

Second and fourth Tuesdays, 2 p.m.: December 11; January 8, 22; February 12, 26 History Nights Facilitated by history enthusiasts Glenn Flickinger and Scott Moore, History Nights is a discussion group that meets at the USC and Mt. Lebanon libraries.

Mondays, 7 p.m.: December 3, January 7, February 4

“Challenges to the Dream” Monday, February 18, 7 p.m.

CMU professor Jim Daniels and award-winning high school and college writers present a look at the 2017 anthology Challenges to the Dream: The Best of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing Awards at Carnegie Mellon University. This moving anthology collects powerful prose and poetry about the writers’ experiences with racial, cultural, and gender diversity. This project “creates a space for daring, eloquent, and inventive work... writing itself can help young people explore and break down issues of difference in their lives,” said Daniels.

Camara Drum and Dance Monday, February 25, 7 p.m.

Yamoussa Camara and his troupe present an unforgettable evening, featuring exciting arrangements of West African music punctuated by original dance choreography and authentic costumes made for the group in Guinea.

Don’t miss this thrilling Yamoussa Camara spectacle!

Reel to Real Wednesday, February 27, 6:30 p.m.

Attention film buffs! Join the Denis Theater at the library for a movie screening and group discussion. Refreshments provided. Film selection TBA.

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Winter Classes for Kids and Their Families Snow is falling and books are calling! Visit the library this winter and enjoy a variety of activities, including the popular weekly classes for kids of all ages.

The library’s winter weekly classes for kids run for six weeks, Monday, January 14 through Friday, February 22. Classes require preregistration.

Registration begins Wednesday, January 2 in person at the library. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.twpusc.org/library/ library-home or come in to the library and pick up a printed brochure.

Babies & Toddlers Storytime Children ages 4–24 months, with a grown-up Babies & Toddlers Storytime combines interactive play, action rhymes, songs, and books all designed to hold the attention of the library’s youngest participants.

Mondays or Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

Twos & Threes Storytime Children ages 2–3½, with a grown-up Twos & Threes Storytime features books and stories, action rhymes and songs, and puppets and play.

Tuesdays, 11 a.m. or Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

Preschool Storytime Children ages 3½, 4, and 5 who are ready to spend a half-hour on their own Stories, songs, finger plays, and book-related activities are featured in Preschool Storytime, which concludes each week with an activity for participants and their caregivers.

Thursdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. or Fridays, 10 a.m.

Family Storytime Families with children ages 2–7 are invited to spend a fun evening sharing stories, rhymes, and songs.

Thursdays, 7 p.m. (Dates TBA; check back at the library.)

Math Mites Children ages 4 and 5 who are not yet in Kindergarten Preschoolers can learn early math skills through stories and hands-on activities at the library’s Math Mites class.

Wednesdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m.

Book Trek Kids in 1st–4th grades Express yourself this winter through creative art workshops and learn about some famous artists.

Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 4 p.m.

Paws for Reading Kids in 1st–5th grades are invited to read to dogs licensed through Therapy Dogs International.

These dogs love to listen to stories read by boys and girls!

Thursdays, 5:30 p.m.: January 31, February 21 Reading Skills Classes This small-group program will help your Kindergartener or first grader practice reading skills learned at school.

First grade session: Dates and times TBA; check back at the library.

Kindergarten session: Dates and times TBA; check back at the library.

Library Explorers Kids currently in Kindergarten Explore math in a fun and exciting way! This session of Library Explorers will feature activities that sneak arithmetic lessons into fun activities.

Tuesdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m.

Playing and learning centers at the library

Everybody needs a friend. Be ours.

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

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T KIDS & TEENS

Special Events for Kids and Families

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Hope to see you all real soo ian Deb Conn, Your Librar

Check out the special events for kids and families occurring throughout the winter at the library. Complete information for each program can be found on the library’s website at www.twpusc.org/library/library-home, or pick up a printed brochure at the library.

Winter Reading Challenge—There’s Snow Better Time to Read!

Kids in Kindergarten–fourth grade are invited to participate in the 2019 Winter Reading Challenge. Following along with a reading guide, participants will build a library snowman.

The challenge ends Friday, February 22.

Pick up your reading guide beginning Monday, December 17.

Family Battle of the Books Families with children in third or fourth grade can participate in the ultimate challenge of book knowledge. Read the preselected books to prepare for a quiz show featuring questions based on the books you’ve read. All participants get a prize, and trophies will be awarded to first-, second-, and thirdplace families. Additionally, the elementary school with the most points will win a trophy and yearlong bragging rights.

Third grade Battle: Monday, February 25, 6 p.m.

Fourth grade Battle, Thursday, February 28, 6 p.m.

Registration for Battle of the Books begins Monday, January 14 in person at the library.

Craft Time at the Library Themed crafts for the seasonal holidays will be available to make at the library during regular library hours. Parents and caregivers are asked to assist their child during craft time.

Celebrate Winter Wednesday, January 2–Friday, January 11 Summer Readers enjoyed an afternoon of bowling, generously provided by AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes. Bowling at this center has become an annual tradition for the library’s summer reading programs.

USC Township Library Hours Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m–9 p.m.

412-835-5540 Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m–5 p.m. www.twpusc.org Sunday, 1–5 p.m.

Outside book and video return available 24/7 Library Holiday Closures: Thanksgiving—Closes at 5 p.m., Wednesday, November 21. Closed Thursday,

November 22 and Friday, November 23 Christmas—Closed Monday, December 24 and Tuesday, December 25 New Year’s—Closes at 1 p.m., Monday, December 31. Closed Tuesday, January 1

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Friday, February 8–Thursday, February 14

Events for Tweens and Teens at the Library Kids in middle school and high school are invited to attend Teen Fun Nights each month at the USC Township Library.

For up-to-date information, refer to the flyers on the teen library website at www.twpusc.org/library/teens. To be included on the teen program announcements, email Miss Colleen at milesc@einetwork.net with your name to join.

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Around the Township Neighborhood

Block Parties

Fun, food, entertainment galore! Who wouldn’t want to spend their day (and evening) with friendly, familiar faces that we pass by every day on our way to work, walking the dog, running to the school bus stop, or working in our yards?

Each year, many neighborhoods in Upper St. Clair set aside a day, usually late in the summer, to gather its residents together for traditional block parties.

While the parties take on a multitude of forms, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department is usually a familiar guest, where a truck and some of its members attend the party and spray some of the party’s energetic youngsters with a fun rush of water.

While many USC neighborhoods hold parties, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY found five of them celebrating camaraderie this past summer and fall seasons. As we begin to bundle up and wonder just how long winter will last, showcasing summer parties gives us the hope that our cold weather days will be short-lived.

Brookside Farms The fifth annual Brookside Farms block party— held each year at the close of summer—was once again a great success! Gorgeous weather, dozens of children, the Upper St. Clair fire truck, a cake walk, and boardwalk-themed games rounded out the festive day. Food was certainly plentiful. While the protein was provided by Frisch’s of Caste Village, attendees complemented the spread with delicious homemade appetizers and salads.

Committee chairs Elaine Shedd, Stephanie Len, Kristine Fishell, Cassie Falkenstein, and Mary Kirk worked hard to create fun experiences, showcasing an exciting theme for this year. “Every year our kids help influence the theme. We’ve done many different themes, including ‘under the big top’ and a luau, but the boardwalk theme seemed a fitting way to end this summer,” said Kristine.

With more than 100 residents attending, it was the most wellattended block party to date. “Each year, the event continues to grow.

We thoroughly enjoy that we have new faces and new families who join the end-of-summer celebration, alongside residents who have called Brookside home for more than 20 years,” said Elaine, block party treasurer. “It’s a great event for everyone in the neighborhood!”

And since Brookside Farms comprises homes from two neighboring communities—Upper St. Clair Township and the Borough of Bethel Park—this day also brings unity among the neighbors, and gives friends and families time to reconnect before the busy school year begins.

Carriage Lane Carriage Lane held its sixth annual block party on Saturday, August 25. The designated day for the party is always the Saturday before USC schools open for business and students get back to the books. Growing with each passing year, the event started with games for the kids and water balloons, and continued with a bounce house and a DJ. Sparklers and an outdoor movie capped off a perfect neighborly gathering for residents on this wonderful USC cul-de-sac street.

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Deerfield More than 200 residents from USC’s Deerfield community in the southern end of USC enjoyed a bounce house, a bike parade, the USC Volunteer Fire Department’s water-spraying fire truck, live music, delectable food, and an evening movie at the neighborhood’s annual block party. Held on August 25, the Saturday before the kids went back to school, it was a great opportunity to unwind, relax, and reconnect with neighbors.

Weather was not an issue this year, as Mother Nature provided sunny skies and warm temperatures. Fun lasted from the early afternoon to late into the night when the stars came out and families cuddled together on top blankets to watch a family-friendly movie.

Glendale Drive The Glendale Drive block party enjoyed a chilly weather day of neighborly fun on Saturday, September 22, the first official day of autumn. Complemented by face painting for the kids, Kona Ice, a visit by a USC fire truck, daylong music from a DJ with line dancing escapades, an evening fire pit, and corn hole, the party was a great way to catch up with neighbors and friends while heading into the fall season with a smile and a sweater. n

Boxfield/Manordale/ Warwick With temperatures still resembling the heat of summer, families on Boxfield Road and Manordale and Warwick Drives gathered for their block party on Saturday, September 15. Going well into the evening hours, the daylong event included a visit from the USC firetruck and USC’s Sub Zero ice cream, face painting and activities for the kids, and a delectable food spread.

This annual social gathering is a big hit for this neighborhood, as families celebrate one last summer hurrah while getting back into their fall routines.

Send photos of your neighborhood gatherings to TODAY. We’d love to receive and publish them! Email high resolution photos (1 MB each) to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, listing “parties” in the email’s subject line.

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Third Annual Golf Partnership at St. Clair Country Club on September 24, 2018

Golfers and friends of two non-profit organizations came out in support of great causes at St. Clair Country Club this past September. The weather, being somewhat cooperative, didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hamper anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good time or some great shots!

Thanks to everyone who donated.

Title Sponsors Platinum Westmoreland Medical Supply Gold Gallagher Home Health CHC Solutions, Inc.

The co-sponsored event was a fundraiser for the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and the Gallagher Foundation.

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Visionary, Creative, Generous, Selfless, and Philanthropic The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair The title of this article describes only a few of the words that characterize the 25-year tradition of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair (CF).

The CF is grounded in the inherent value of bonding the community through both developing and funding ideas, as well as hosting activities that build a sense of belonging. The CF’s “seed was planted” by a small group of citizens who recognized a need, and then created a path to providing activities that enrich the lives of residents. The visionary founders demonstrated a strong sense of nobility and kindness to give selflessly, create opportunities, cultivate ideas, and establish a way to support enhancements to Upper St. Clair that are not funded by taxes.

It began with a partnership with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

A black-tie dinner was planned with rides to the high school in “yellow limousines,” a.k.a. school buses! Friends, neighbors, families with children, and students purchased $10, $50, $100, and $250 tickets to enjoy a concert on the high school’s stage. The sell-out crowd was treated to an amazing evening with the PSO. The “can-do” spirit of the founders of the Foundation created a zeal within the community to join in the fun and to open their wallets. That first event yielded more than $54,000 to use as seed money for many amazing partnerships, projects, and events that were yet to come.

Throughout its quarter-of-a-century history, the CF has targeted all age groups with five focus areas to reach all levels of the community demographic. Projects are considered for the Fine & Performing Arts, Education and Lifelong Learning, Recreation and Leisure, Science, and Technology. The CF has been everywhere in Upper St. Clair Township, and residents have been the beneficiaries of the generous efforts of more than 200 residents who have served as Trustees on the CF board.

Last year the Foundation assisted a Junior Robotics Camp for girls, recently helped the public library develop their Crossing Borders—Music of Many Lands program, and USC High School received assistance for their MINI-Thon. Mini-grants were also awarded to residents with specific ideas. Equipment can be very expensive, and the CF supported the purchase of items, including a new shell for the high school Crew Team, the acquisition of the Steinway Model D Grand Piano on the high school stage, the placement of the state flag pole at USC’s Veterans Monument Park, the renovation of school playgrounds, and the purchase of technology equipment for the School District. For the past 25 years, many special performances have visited the community on their world travels, and this year the high school English department created a partnership with Little Lake Theatre. Becoming a Competitive College Applicant and Family Movie Night have both become highly anticipated yearly events.

Raising money to support the evolution of ideas, create opportunities, and enhance life for residents is a continual process for the CF. While you may be aware of the Community Day Duck Race, the Golf Invitational, the Giving Tea, and the year-end fund drive, opportunities are financed, sponsored, and supported by the Foundation primarily through the generosity of residents. Ideas can be expensive, and many go undeveloped and unfulfilled because they are unfunded! Your ideas, as well as your financial support and volunteerism, could bring even greater enhancement to the lives of our friends and neighbors. As you consider your philanthropic plan for the end of the year, remember your Community Foundation. Shown in the photos are some of the families that attended CF’s Please visit www.cfusc.org to donate. n movie night this past August at Fort Couch.

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From Crappy to Happy

Exploring Nature Can Help You Cope When Times Get Tough Stephanie Jiménez, Allegheny Land Trust Intern

Winter. Cloudy skies, dirty slush all over the place, hard to drive through snow...and it’s cold. It’s no wonder many people’s depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses or disorders rev up during this season. For some of us, it’s as if the dreary winter scene triggers our inner hibernation—as if we’ve evolved little from our fellow black bears and chipmunks. Not to mention out tireless work catching up with us right before the ever-creeping holiday season. Regardless of how much you’d like to give in to that inner hibernating box turtle instinct, winter is not a season to miss. It’s time to remember that the very nature around you—regardless of the season—can help you cope with the worst.

Google the health benefits of being outside. Because of the ever-decreasing amount of green space available to us, living in an urbanized environment reduces the opportunity and benefit from time outdoors. Not only do we spend much less time outside year-round than our ancestors did, but this fact is amplified in the winter months in our geographical area. Spending lots of time indoors might worsen pre-existing health conditions and even bring on the onset of new ones. Companies, like REI, have started a hashtag trend, #optoutside, to encourage people to achieve natural happiness rather than consumer happiness during the holiday season. Opting outside can help you achieve basic health benefits, including lowering cortisol levels, rumination, and negative feelings, increasing mental ability and cognitive skills, developing a sense of On a winter walk grounding, sharpening your memory, and even helping develop your creative mind… not to mention absorbing Vitamin D, which is a common human deficiency. Imagine achieving all these health benefits by simply taking a walk outside or sitting under a tree.

At the very least, try new methods of coping with whatever events, illnesses, or anxieties are plaguing you. But you ask, “How exactly can I use a drowsy winter to my benefit?” These months may appear desolate, but there is much to see and do right in your own backyard. Take Wingfield Pines for example, with its 87 acres of green space, a creek, an amazing abandoned mine drainage restoration area, and a multitude of species to search for. Pets are allowed in some areas. Play a game, geocache, join an Allegheny Land Trust (ALT) program, or increase your spirituality and pray. For example, I hike with my dog once a week through rain or snow, and take relaxation time to sit on an overhanging rock that has a beautiful view. After my respite, I Blowing away the snowfall race my dog down to the wetlands trail.

Maybe a routine would do you good—a quick jog or relaxing under a tree every day. Maybe this routine provides initiative and determination to see something through. “I braved the 20-degree weather and took a stroll” is pretty impressive if you ask me! Or maybe you’d like to try nature-therapy, a mindful walk through green space that grounds your senses to the living and non-living things around you. You meditate, observe, listen, breath, touch, and appreciate what lives outside of you.

Before venturing out, be well-prepared. Layer your clothing and have good socks and gloves. Cover your nose, wear good hiking boots, bring hand warmers, snacks, and water, and bring your kids. Always head back when you begin to feel too cold or numb. A bit of preparation can keep you safe!

Join the movement of people taking advantage of this free therapy and connect with nature. We, as human beings, are connected to the air, water, plants, and animals around us; so much so, that simply interacting with a healthy environment (even in the winter) has the effects of making us calmer and healthier.

Of course, we can’t expect nature’s activities to cure everything, but we can Happening at Wingfield Pines certainly try to see if nature helps make our journey easier and more enjoyable, Featured event: Twitter in the Trees/Christmas Bird Count, regardless of the season.

December 15, 8 a.m.

Winter. Snug, refreshing, intricate snowflakes, fuzzy animals. What will you Check the Allegheny Land Trust website for more events. find in nature to make you smile? n

ALT Launches New Mapping Tool

This fall, Allegheny Land Trust launched a new regional mapping tool, with the help of the University of Pittsburgh’s regional data center and in partnership with the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County.

Who? Allegheny Land Trust, WPRDC, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County What? New interactive mapping tool build, launched, and released for public use 66

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Why? Empower communities to look at and act on landslide-prone areas, vacant and delinquent parcels, flood zones, and open green space Who cares? This tool will be helpful to anyone looking to compete with the rampant development activity occurring as Pittsburgh grows in nationwide popularity. Information previously accessible only to savvy developers can now be accessed

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at the fingertips of anyone who has an Internet connection. Communities facing issues like flooding, landslides, combined sewer overflow, lack of green space, and lack of urban farming space will also find this to be a useful tool. n Visit https://tools.wprdc.org/urban-greenprint/ to take a new look at our community.

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This Winter’s Real Estate Market—Quite Different The weather may be getting cold, but the real estate market remains hot!

Dora Rudick, REALTOR®, Coldwell Banker; Kevin O’Laughlin, Loan Originator, Movement Mortgage Buying and selling a house during the winter months does not have to be as daunting as one would think, if you are prepared. Historically in the Pittsburgh market, the winter months are not as appealing for buying or selling; however, this year is a bit different.

How the current market affects buyers: Interest rates are rising and projected to be greater than five percent as we go into the New Year. The Mortgage Bankers Association predicts the rate will rise to 4.8% by the end of 2018. Freddie Mac expects it to jump to an average of 5.1% in 2019. Realtor.com suggests that the rate will reach five percent by year-end. Additionally, CNBC.com states that mortgage rates have not been at five percent since 2011.

So, what does this mean for you as a buyer? Your buying power is reduced when interest rates rise. For example, if you previously qualified for a $200,000 home at a four percent rate, now you might only qualify for a $180,000 home at five percent, due to the monthly payment being higher and your debt-toincome ratio being higher, as well. If you wait too long to buy a house in a rising interest rate environment, you will be at a disadvantage, since the cost to borrow money will be higher.

How the current market affects sellers: A c c o r d i n g t o We s t P e n n Multi-List, December 2017, the average days a house was on the market was 34 days. In the five buying months of April to August 2018, the average days on the market was less than 30. Due to the continued limited inventory, we expect average days on the market to remain around 30 days during the winter months.

So, what does this mean for you as a seller? If you list your house this winter, you can still expect it to sell fast. Remember, pricing is everything. If you price it above market value, it will sit. Don’t let the limited competition trick you into pricing it too high. Talk to a real estate agent, and request that he or she conduct a comparative market analysis. The list price should be based on current market data. n For information included in this article or to reach Dora or Kevin, email them at dora.rudick@pittsburghmoves.com or Kevin.OLaughlin@movement.com or check out their Facebook pages.

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Traveling with TODAY

TODAY sits on the rim of Bryce Canyon’s natural Amphitheater

Olympic Village’s site of summer training ski jumping

While a summer trip to Utah might not be an avid skier’s destination of choice at that time of year, TODAY enjoyed a number of stops along its journey in this high elevation, western mountain state over the Labor Day weekend.

The trip began in the valley with a visit to Salt Lake City’s Temple Square (35 acres of the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints’ world headquarters) to walk the grounds, meet a few of its missionaries, and listen to an organ recital. Then it was off to the mountainous Park City and its quaint Main Street and Olympic Village (the site for certain events of the 2002 winter Olympics). Finally, traveling four hours south to Bryce Canyon (a national park that bestows grandiose art of a natural kind, with the world’s largest collection of bulbous columns known as hoodoos and night sky gazing atop one of the darkest places in North America accessible by a road system), this trip was mostly about relaxation, recharging, and reconnecting with nature.

Salt Lake City’s Latter-Day Saints Temple, built 1853–1893 LDS Tabernacle, home of the Tabernacle Choir

A sunrise view from Bryce Canyon’s Sunrise Point Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon

While Upper St. Clair Township was experiencing 90-degree days in early September, parts of Utah were showing emerging signs of the nearing autumn season, as the mountains along the Wasatch front were dotted with yellows, oranges, and crimson, and the early morning temperatures dipped to the crisp high 40s.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY took to the Pacific Ocean off the shores of Nicaragua. Traveling to this under-the-radar surfer destination, TODAY caught the early

TODAY finds a worn tree trunk at the shores of the Pacific Ocean in Nicaragua

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calm of the day before surf boards and their owners joined in for perfect rolling waves of the morning. While tried and true surfers clamor over this particular location, beginners tend to stay clear, since its shoreline is populated with large, dangerous lava rock.

Did you know that the Central American country of Nicaragua, a third world country bounded by the Pacific Ocean Caribbean Sea, Honduras, and Costa Rica, is known as a country of volcanos and lakes? Over a dozen volcanos, some of which are active, dot the countryside and are wonderful hiking adventures.

In close proximity to Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, is the active Masaya Volcano. Continually emitting sulfur dioxide, white plumes of smoke from the crater can be seen from miles away.

See article on page 14, which explores an inland area of Nicaragua, to learn about a local effort helping to empower the country’s junior citizens through the sport of swimming.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Entering Nicaragua by plane and flying over Masaya Volcano National Park to reach the airport, you can see the smoke being emitted from the crater.

Steamship Natchez

Traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana, is not for the faint of heart or for sedentary enjoyment.

By day and by night, TODAY partook in sightseeing and people watching. Bounded by Lake Pontchartrain to the north and the banks of the Mississippi River to the south, this historic city, which is below sea level, is protected by levees up to 100 feet high.

Daylight trips to the National World War II museum, Jackson Square, numerous crypts in Lafayette Cemetery, and lovely mansions and gardens in the Garden District between St. Charles and Magazine Streets can be enjoyed using the five streetcar routes, with on/off privileges when you purchase a 24-hour pass.

Seeing the city skyline rise behind the waters of the Mississippi, take a steamship river cruise for a relaxing afternoon. Some play Dixieland music that will lull you back to the day when travel by steamship was considered modern. Of course, the Superdome is the setting for the athlete in all of us!

Leave the exploration of Bourbon Street in the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street in Faubourg Marigny to the night until the break of day, when the streets ramp up with all sorts of activities, offering a different (and more adult-like) kind of fun. Pat O’Brien’s, known as the “Home of the Hurricane,” is a fun stop. Monument of Andrew Jackson at Jackson Square in the French Quarter Go with a few extended holes in your belt, since native food is abundant and delicious any time of day or night! With many foodie options to rank and choose from, don’t forget that café au lait and beignets (French pastries) are a great combination to start any morning (or afternoon) in NOLA.

Downtown NOLA view from the Steamship Natchez

Canal Streetcar

Traveling to see penguins doesn’t have to take you to the coast of Antarctica when you are looking for penguins of a different sort. At the Pittsburgh Penguins’ training facility in Cranberry, TODAY enjoyed watching a pre-season practice early this fall, complete with skaters, ice, pucks, and a cheering crowd. Free to the public, this was a great way to see our town’s winter sports heroes up close, as they conducted drills and scrimmage games in front of black and yellow adorned fans.

TODAY also traveled to see live penguins, among 600 other bird species, at the Aviary this past fall. This bird exhibit showcases 20 African penguins who certainly do put on an enjoyable water show. n

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Crypts in Lafayette Cemetery

Traveling with TODAY

Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information.

• Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine.

• Digital photo accepted.

• Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email.

• List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location.

• List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc.

• Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary.

• Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

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

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Send information to: Editor,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Pam Render

Longtime USC resident Pam Render retired from the Upper St. Clair School District this past August. Working for more than 18 years as a nurse’s aide at Baker Elementary and the high school, she transitioned to managing the USCHS testing center for the final seven years of her 25-year career with the District.

The testing center job was a big timesaver for the USC faculty, as they could otherwise focus on preparation and teaching while Pam administered student makeup tests and follow up assignments.

Extending beyond the normal school day to accommodate the busy life of a high school student, many faculty members praised Pam for her diligence and professionalism in getting the job done. Students would drop by the testing center just to chat and vent to a friendly face that was always willing to listen.

In her retirement years, Pam would like to do three things now that she has the time and energy.

First, she welcomes the opportunity to more fully enjoy her four grandchildren—Ruby (8) and Roman (6) in Cleveland and George (5) and June (2) in New York City—as they participate in their various school and sports activities. Second, Pam would like to vacation in the Amalfi Coast, as well as visit Paris and Hawaii. Lastly, she would like to further develop her interest and expertise in calligraphy, using her “special touch” artistic skills for weddings, parties, and awards.

So, for Pamela Jo Churico Render, retirement really means refocus. Congratulations!

To learn how Pam’s calligraphy work might work for an upcoming event or engagement that you have, email her at pjchurico@verizon.net.

Trinity Murphy, a student at Upper St. Clair High School, tied for second place in the Under 1000 Section at the 50th annual Atlantic Open Continental Chess Tournament held this past August in Tysons Corner, Virginia. Additionally, Trinity, along with Samuel Kagle, a student from Chartiers Valley High School, won first place at the annual Pittsburgh Open Continental Chess Tournament held this past July, competing in the mixed doubles section.

Checkmate!

Trinity Murphy, at the Atlantic Open tournament

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Upper St. Clair resident Dr. Thomas DeSantis received his fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry at the AGD annual session in New Orleans this past June. Tom, a USC resident since 1970, has been practicing family and cosmetic dentistry on Fort Couch Road since 1984.

Fellowship is awarded after completion of hundreds of hours of continuing education, followed by the fellowship examination. According to the AGD, about seven percent of general dentists achieve this prestigious award.

“The award represents a commitment to lifelong learning. The field of dental science and the practice of dentistry is changing so rapidly that in order to provide the care that our patients expect and deserve, I absolutely have to stay current,” said Dr. DeSantis. “In the last five to ten years, technology and computer assisted design (CAD) have revolutionized the delivery of dental restorations.”

Tom and his wife, Shelley, who live on Wellington Drive, are the proud parents of three USC graduates: Dan, Emily, and Lauren.

Tom DeSantis, DMD, FAGD

Tammy Singleton-English

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Upper St. Clair resident Tammy Singleton-English was elected chair of the South Hills Morning Networking sub-committee of the Solo and Small Practitioners section of the Allegheny County Bar Association this past summer.

Any attorney who works in a firm of six or fewer attorneys is welcome to participate. To learn more, contact Tammy at Singleton-English Law Offices at 412-851-0529.

Tammy recently joined the Community Foundation of USC as trustee to help benefit our community at large. She is the founder of Singleton-English Law Offices, located in Bethel Park, which concentrates on tax, estate planning, and probate matters.

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St. Clair Hospital Undergoes $142 Million Expansion

St. Clair Hospital is undergoing a $142 million expansion at its main campus, the centerpiece of which is a new 280,000-square-foot comprehensive outpatient center. The outpatient center is targeted to open in fall 2020 and will result in the employment of 150 additional healthcare professionals at the hospital, the South Hills’ largest employer with 2500 employees. The investment represents the largest expansion at the hospital’s main campus in four decades and is in response to the 130% growth in its outpatient volume since 2006.

“As a leading healthcare organization, we are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art medical care in our region,” says John T. Sullivan, MD, MBA, senior vice president and chief medical officer at St. Clair Hospital. “Advancements in medical science have dramatically changed how medical care will be delivered in the future, and we are addressing that evolution by creating a facility in which next generation treatments can be provided in a convenient, easy-to-access, patient-focused setting.

The new outpatient center will prove to be a transformative experience for patients by consolidating high-quality clinical and support services under one roof.”

The new six-story building will offer comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic outpatient services, including laboratory; medical imaging; cardiodiagnostics; physical and occupational therapy; an infusion center; outpatient surgery with ten operating rooms, two procedure rooms, and 51 pre- and post-surgical rooms; a spacious endoscopy (GI) suite with six exam rooms; other multidisciplinary clinical programs; conference space; multiple seating options; a café, serving chef-prepared offerings; underground parking; and a commercial pharmacy. “All of these clinical services and amenities will be complemented by the addition’s modern architectural features, including a two-story atrium that will flood the building with natural light,” said Dr. Sullivan.

“This truly represents groundbreaking growth for St. Clair Hospital,” says James M. Collins, president and chief executive officer at St. Clair Hospital. “St. Clair is already a national leader in patient safety, quality,

patient satisfaction, and value. With this addition, St. Clair will have forward-looking facilities commensurate with its growth and the rapid changes in how healthcare will be delivered in the future.”

The new outpatient center will be constructed on property that spans Mt. Lebanon and Scott Township on North Wren Drive and will be connected to the existing hospital. The project also includes the construction of a new employee parking garage (opened this past May) and a new central power plant that will modernize the campus’ infrastructure. For added public safety, the project includes realigning North Wren Drive to better connect with Bower Hill Road and Firwood Drive, as well as the installation of new traffic signals and sidewalks.

The expansion will also increase the hospital’s already significant contribution to the economic vitality of the southwestern Pennsylvania region. An impact study conducted by the Allegheny Conference’s Pennsylvania Economy League of Greater Pittsburgh estimates the project will add 1632 direct, indirect, and induced jobs to the region, and contribute approximately $262.4 million in direct revenue and $145 million in value-added services to the region’s economy.

Funding for St. Clair Hospital’s $142 million building project is being supported by philanthropy, government grants, tax exempt bonds, and hospital funds. n

Rendering of St. Clair Hospital’s newest addition, an outpatient center

For more information about St. Clair Hospital, visit stclair.org. See ads for St. Clair Hospital on pages 2 and 79.

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In Remembrance of Carl Lindstrom August 5, 1933–July 11, 2018

Dr. Terrence Kushner, Retired USC Assistant Superintendent An excerpt from former Upper St. Clair School District school administrator Terry Kushner’s reflection on July 21, 2018, at the Celebration of Carl Lindstrom’s Life Memorial Service, Westminster Presbyterian Church.

When Marilyn called to ask me to speak today, I im-

mediately accepted as I consider it an honor to say a few words about my friend, Carl Lindstrom. Knowing Carl’s personality and love of sports, I’ve put a little spin on my comments by mixing in a few sports metaphors. Here’s my “scouting report.”

In the “big-inning” (Get it?), I met Carl when I came to USC in 1986. We immediately hit it off due to many of our common interests. This, of course, was 15 years after his “big catch” of Marilyn Fife, who became his loving wife of 47 years and his biggest cheerleader.

It’s appropriate that after playing baseball and completing his studies at Pitt, Carl signed his “rookie contract” at USC to join another Panther team. He was a dyed-in-the-wool Panther fan to the end!

Some of you may not know that Carl “pinch-hit” as USC’s athletic director for a short time. One of his proudest wins was the hiring of free agent football coach Jim Render, who’s gone on to become the winningest coach in WPIAL history.

By the way, Marilyn, Ted, and I would like to lodge a coaches’ challenge to the obituary stating that John Gido and Carl were the “Voice of USC football for 35 years.” We believe that it was much longer than that.

Carl told us stories about announcing games in the mid- to late-60s from a table and portable speaker along the sidelines before there was a stadium press box. That would put it at more than 45 years ago.

Last week, I “huddled” with my daughter-in-law, Carrie, who got to know Carl and Marilyn through their teamwork, activity, and volunteerism in this very church. In their many discussions, Carrie thought of Carl as a “people person”—very easy to talk to and young at heart. We agreed that he Left to right: John Gido, Jim Render, Carl Lindstrom was always easy to warm up to and (circa 1995) loved to have fun.

Carl Lindstrom

Many of you, I’m sure, were “drafted” to participate in his famous football and basketball pools. Of course, “for amusement only.” Carl was always good for the delivery of a funny joke—or as any good teacher “pitches”—an interesting story.

I spoke to Art Rooney, Jr. yesterday who was a teammate of Carl’s in the Reserves. I asked him, “What kind of soldier was Carl? Was he a good soldier?” He sternly responded, “Good soldier? He was a Marine!”

One of Carl’s favorite vacations was to take his family team to Deer Valley for “pre-season” camp. This combined his love of sports, competition, education, and family.

In recent visits that Ted Barnett, Jim Render, and I had with Carl, he was always upbeat and optimistic, speaking about the future. He never complained or cried “foul” about his health.

Carl stayed on a “winning streak” to the end. His “game plan” was based on faith and hope.

In summary, Carl was a “5-tool player” (a baseball term)—a family man, a man of faith, an educator/teacher, a people person (with a sense of humor), and a loyal Marine— and I consider him an MVP: most valuable person. We will miss Carl, but we will certainly cherish all of our fond memories of his life and “Hall of Fame” career. n Carl Lindstrom graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in May 1957, ultimately earning a master’s degree from Duquesne University in 1969. Serving in the military as a Major in the Marine Corps, with active duty for three years (1957–1960), he followed that by serving in the reserves for 19 additional years. In September 1960, he began his career as a physical education teacher at Johnston Elementary School in Upper St. Clair. Transferring to Eisenhower Elementary School in 1965, he taught fourth grade for one year until becoming principal of that school in 1966. In September 1975, he was appointed supervisor of curriculum and instruction for students in Kindergarten through grade 12, and also took on the duties of athletic director. In 1976, he served as temporary USCHS principal for six months until a permanent administrator was hired. Retiring from USCSD in 1992, Carl worked for three years as supervising principal of the Carlynton School District.

From 1995 to 2005, he worked for Duquesne University as supervisor of student teachers.

Teaming Up to Provide Homes for Dogs

This past October, affiliated agents and staff from the South Hills office of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services teamed up with Animal LifeLine Inc. in Homestead, along with hundreds of other Coldwell Banker offices and animal shelters around the country, for the “Homes for Dogs” national adoption weekend.

“As a real estate agency, we help people in the western region of Pennsylvania realize their homeownership goals every day,” noted Milo Hindman, branch manager of the South Hills office. “This adoption event allows us to extend our services to pets in need and to help them find their forever home in the greater Pittsburgh area.”

The adoption weekend is part of the “Homes for Dogs Project,” a four-year campaign launched by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC and Adopt-a-Pet.com, North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website. In the first year alone, organizations helped facilitate more than 20,000 pet adoptions.

Coldwell Banker agents and staff assisted the shelter with pet adoptions during the four-hour event. The shelter continues to look for assistance from the public in the form of monetary, toy, and food donations. n See ad for Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services on the back cover.

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Gina Fonzi, holding a dog available for pet adoption

Happenings!

Holiday Craft Show The Christian Life Center at Christ United Methodist Church will host its holiday craft show to benefit PRIME TIME Adult Care. Lunch and refreshments will be available for purchase. Admission is free.

Date/Time: Saturday, December 1, 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Where: Christ United Methodist Church, 44 Highland Road, Bethel Park Cookie Sale and Kolbassi Order St. Gregory’s Church is holding its Taste of Heaven cookie sale, with hundreds of dozens of homemade cookies available just in time for holiday entertaining.

Also available for sale is the cookbook A Taste of Heaven, Sweets from Heaven, compiled by church parishioners. Kolbassi orders ($6/pound, with pickup on Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. or Sunday, December 9, 10:30 a.m.–noon) will be taken. Chances for a basket of cheer will be sold.

Cookie prices: Large container: $15; small container: $8 Date/Time: Saturday, December 1, 8 a.m.–noon Where: St. Gregory’s Church parish hall, 2005 Mohawk Road, Brookside Farms, USC Other ways to pre-order kolbassi are to visit www.stgregoryusc.org or call a church parishioner.

Chanukah Lights Celebrate Chanukah—the eight-day Jewish festival celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Israel—when South Hills Jewish Pittsburgh presents “South Hills 7th Night Chanukah Celebration!”

Free and open to the entire community, the celebration includes a holiday-themed dinner, featuring traditional latkes (potato pancakes), jelly donuts, and more; a live DJ; dreidel tournament; swimming; and special surprises throughout the night! The festivities kick off with Havdalah (a brief ceremony marking the end of Shabbat), the lighting of the seventh candle on the menorah, and singing Chanukah songs.

While the event is free, reservations are strongly encouraged at southhillsjewishpittsburgh.org/chanukah18.

Date/Time: Saturday, December 8, 5:45 p.m.

Where: South Hills JCC, 345 Kane Boulevard, Scott Township For a complete list of Chanukah events, visit South Hills Jewish Pittsburgh on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or at southhillsjewishpittsburgh.org.

The Importance of Credit Scores

Having a good credit score is critical to obtaining the best rate and terms on any loan. When obtaining a home mortgage loan, consider the following.

Do items: • Stay current on all existing credit accounts and make payments by the due date.

• Maintain your credit at the current, normal level, avoiding increasing or decreasing various debt.

• Determine your credit score and talk with a mortgage lender. The lender will also obtain a credit score for you.

Do not items: • Do not max out your credit cards, do not use more than 30% of your available credit, and bring down any high credit card or other loan balances before applying for a mortgage.

• Do not roll your debt into a consolidation loan. Doing so might give the appearance that you have maxed out your credit. It is better to have smaller amounts on several credit cards and continue to pay down the balance on each of those cards.

• Do not transfer money between accounts while in the mortgage process or once you have been approved for a mortgage.

• Do not withdraw large sums of money from any of your accounts, as the mortgage lender will be looking at all of your accounts.

• Do not switch jobs just prior to applying for a loan or while your mortgage loan is in process. The mortgage lender might request up to 60 days of pay statements and a letter from your employer. Best to stay in your current job.

• Do not request multiple credit reports. The more times your credit report is run, the possibility of your credit score going down increases.

Additional credit inquiries may hurt an otherwise good credit score that you’ve worked so hard to attain. n This article was provided by Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. See ad on this page.

USC School District Musical Performances For some free holiday fun, attend a musical concert performed by our talented students in the District (see page 34 for a list of performances).

DELIVERING RESULTS Selling or purchasing a home is a major life investment...

Choose wisely.

Lynn Dempsey, Realtor

®

lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com

O: (412) 833-5405 x255 C: (412) 445-6264

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

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15241.TODAY

Can Help You This Winter Leaves are falling and holiday planning is underway. If you’re looking for a new way to get the word out about your holiday services, products, or fundraisers, turn to 15241.TODAY. We have new opportunities for advertising on our website that are budget-friendly and allow for timely placement. Ten-day, 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day contracts are currently available, as is complimentary placement for local fundraisers and newsworthy events.

Look for us at http://15241.TODAY and spread the word today! n

Deep Roots They were there always and forever.

We enter with roots tethered To families, to generations alive and gone by.

Instructions, tales to tell, paths to follow.

Learn as we grow, roots are there As we become aware, slowly aware.

A seed falls to grow a tree, its roots move down Drawn to the rich earth, nourished and mystic, unseen, unbound.

It branches up and out, reaches and clings to the air.

Breathes in all that we breathe out, A circle so connected and rooted, we are through the divine Tree of Life, to the Cross of the risen Life.

Twitter: @usctmag Instagram: @15241.TODAY Facebook: @usctoday Website: https://15241.TODAY

Roots spread far and away and deep to hold us true As winds of time and change tug and pull.

Our souls attached, fettered, plain to see Though we let go through choice and will, set free.

It is our gift, our path to follow or lead To set new roots and draw Shelter, warmth, food and life from branches until old.

Our lives, too short, bend don’t break, we’re told.

We watch, we live, we cry Laugh and scoff, love and die.

So then roots we become Growing old and gray, and wise for some.

To those we love, to all we love, then To love and live eternal again.

—Ron Morosky

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Tune In UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be helping to soon launch “15241 TODAY talk,” a collaborative Township/School District video broadcast that will focus on things relevant to residents of our community. In the broadcasting station at the Township building and onsite at various Township locations, information about various topics shared on Cable 7 will be interesting and informative, and complemented by visual footage.

Clips from the monthly broadcasts will be posted on TODAY’s Facebook page, USC Township’s Facebook page, and other School District and social media outlets. Stay tuned for more information on this community-involved undertaking! n Winter 2018

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Skip the usual presents and bring health, happiness and pure joy to their world and peace of mind to yours. Kids learn safety skills while having fun, making friends, building confidence and learning life lessons. + LESSONS FOR KIDS 4 MONTHS TO 12 YEARS + CELEBRATIONS! RIBBONS, PRIZES & FUN + KID-FRIENDLY AMENITIES PETERS TOWNSHIP | 724.942.7946 WEXFORD | 724.799.8850 goldfishswimschool.com |

Home Furnace Safety Tips and Inspections

Michael Ference, COO, Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Natural gas furnaces are one of the most energy efficient ways to heat homes during cold months. Some of the newer models have an annual fuel-utilization-efficiency of 97%. This is mostly because natural gas is one of the cleanest of all fossil fuels. Energy efficiency is ideal for conscientious consumers and frugal homeowners alike, but regular maintenance and safety precautions should be followed to keep families safe and happy with their natural gas furnaces.

There are four types of natural gas furnaces: floor models, wall models, central gravity models, and central forced-air models. The following safety guidelines can be applied to any type of natural gas furnace, excluding space heaters.

1. Regularly vacuum the furnace and the surrounding area to prevent lint build-up, which creates a fire hazard. For detailed instructions, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or call a professional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) specialist, such as Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing.

2. Instruct children to stay away from the grill of a gas furnace, which gets very hot. Proper furnace safety can prevent family members from accidentally getting burned by the unit. Children are also less likely to leave items near the furnace if they are not allowed to play in the area.

3. Keep flammables away from the furnace and any heat registers in the home. Items, including rugs, Christmas trees, blankets, and furniture, should not block airflow. Lightweight objects, like newspapers, can easily be drawn to the unit, blocking the air intake and creating a fire hazard. Because furnaces often draw air from the indoors, the unit can pick up small particles, including lint, pet hair, and dust, aggravating allergy sufferers. The furnace can also pick up dangerous fumes from harmful chemicals left near the furnace and distribute them throughout the house. Properly placing chemicals away from the

furnace can protect your family members from accidentally inhaling dangerous fumes.

4. If the unit has a filter, inspect or change it monthly. Proper furnace safety can improve the efficiency of your appliance and reduce the amount of energy required to operate it. Properly close the panel door of the furnace after changing the filter. This decreases the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning. Newer models have safety switches to prevent the units from functioning while the door is open.

Homeowners are also encouraged to install carbon monoxide detectors near the unit to prevent such an incident.

5. Unvented space heaters are not intended to heat an entire home.

Solely relying on these appliances can greatly increase the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Special precautions and maintenance are required to lessen the chances of an accident while these units are in use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to keep your family members and property safe while using these appliances.

6. Get a thorough furnace inspection and tune-up each year from a reputable HVAC contractor to ensure its proper operation. This will help to keep your system running smoothly and to catch any faulty parts or components that may need to be replaced. If a system replacement is required, a certified contractor will present options that suit your lifestyle and budget.

Understanding the dos and don’ts associated with your furnace are the best ways to ensure your family’s safety during the winter months.

Gas furnaces are widely used throughout the country and rarely cause severe injury or death. Safety precautions, however, need to be followed. n See ad for Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling on this page.

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From daytime highs in the mid 80s to nightly lows nearing the freezing point, local fall weather cooperated for some fun outdoor play during the month of October. UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY took to the streets to capture residents out and about enjoying our neighborhood parks and other Township activities. While clothing went from shorts and T-shirts to more seasonable sweater and coat apparel as the month came to a close, we did our best to get some great shots. n

Photos by Terry Kish

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Is There Life After This Old House?

Dina Fulmer

Once we reach adulthood, the course of our lives is determined by the choices we make: which job to accept, whom to marry, where to live, when to have a baby, and on and on and on. One choice or decision which we usually put off is that of moving from our familiar home into a residence that is composed mostly of people just like us—old. OK, I’ll admit it; I am old, but I think I made the decision to move at a good time, while I am still able to enjoy the amenities and lifestyle of retirement home living. Although my husband and I had discussed the idea many times over the years, we always concluded that we “aren’t ready yet.” However, after Jerry died, and I found myself in charge of a 60-year-old, five-bedroom house in Upper St. Clair where I had lived very happily for 42 years, I began to think that, perhaps, I was ready. Now, a bit over a year after having made the choice to move, I am certain I was, indeed, ready.

Living in a community of about 350 people of a certain age group, I found a number of truly old people, but most of us are quite young—interesting, lively, intelligent, goodhumored, well informed—people with whom one enjoys spending time. We also respect each other’s privacy. Some are quite sociable; others are not. There is no stereotypical denizen of a retirement community, that’s for sure.

So, what’s to like? First, no maintenance problems. Outside, the grass is cut, the trees are trimmed, and the flowers are planted and cared for. Inside, the leaky faucet is fixed, the dead lightbulb is changed, and the windows are washed. I can leave for a six-week vacation without a worry that the roof will spring a leak, the furnace will quit, or a pipe will burst.

Second, I can attend the symphony or the theater without having to find a place to park. I can get dropped off right at the entrance to PNC Park. I can visit the Science Center or the museum without worrying if some short-tempered person is going to side-swipe me. I can take a short five-minute walk to hear musical groups and speakers on a myriad of subjects.

Third, I eat very well. This was a very important consideration for me. I am a good cook, and I like to cook. While I brought many of my cookbooks and most of my kitchen appliances, bakeware, and battery with me, I have done very little cooking, except for a few spécialités de la maison and some rolls and desserts. However, the food here is so good, usually cooked to perfection, or my idea of perfection, at least, that I rarely have the need or the inclination to cook.

Fourth, there are so many things I can do right here: play bridge, direct (or star in) a play, attend a book club, learn to paint, watch a movie, study art history, attend yoga classes, ride an exercise bicycle, or swim in a heated pool, for example. But, I still have the independence to pursue my own thing outside the community, if I choose.

Fourth, it is convenient. There is in-house physical therapy where physicians of many specialties hold regular office hours. There is a plethora of exercise classes, for both body and mind, and a well-equipped gym is in the building. One can have her hair done or a manicure without leaving the premises. The newspaper can be delivered to your door and not at the end of the driveway. There is always someone on hand who will sign for packages. If you should become ill or need rehabilitation after a hospital stay, the facilities are on site and you are assured a space.

Following the “when” decision is, of course, the “where” decision. Do you stay in your own community where you already have a PCP, a dentist, and many friends, or move to be close to an out-of-town child? Both options have pros and cons. For me, the decision was simple, I stayed in the area. I have friends here, I know my way around, I don’t want to break in a series of new doctors, and I am close to the Pittsburgh Symphony, many theaters, and great museums. I love the library system and use it a lot.

I have my own life and did not want to become an adjunct to one of my children’s. And who’s to say they would stay put and not move? Since there was never any question of what I was going to do, would either of them even want me close? I don’t know.

This is one woman’s experience. I hope I have set some minds at ease and, perhaps, prompted others to think, “Maybe I am ready.” If you are ready to move, decide what is important to you and shop around until you find it. It’s a big decision; make it the right one! n

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Will Celebrate 25 Years!

Stayed tuned for special celebration coverage and advertising incentives in the New Year

Dina moved from Upper St. Clair to Providence Point this past summer.

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MAKE SURE ST. CLAIR IS IN YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE NETWORK St. Clair Hospital, a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, is consistently rated among the nation’s leaders in patient safety, quality, patient satisfaction, and value. To make sure St. Clair is in your health insurance network, please visit stclair.org and click on Financial Tools for participating health care plans.

Not only is St. Clair an in-network provider for these plans, it’s frequently the lowest cost provider.

And, to help you determine those costs, St. Clair offers Patient Estimates, an online cost transparency tool that allows you to learn ahead of time what your estimated out-of-pocket costs will be for select St. Clair services. Patient Estimates is available 24/7 on the Hospital’s website.

So, for the best care and coverage, make sure St. Clair, one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals®, is in your network.

1000 BOWER HILL ROAD

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M T. L E B A N O N , P E N N SY LVA N I A 1 5 2 4 3

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412.942.4000

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Advertiser Index www.twpusc.org/magazine/usc-today-home

Winter 2018

Advertiser Page

Advertiser Page

Affordable Decks and Additions .............................................................. 71 Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. ...........................................................................9 Asbury Heights ....................................................................................... 39 * Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South ....3 BISTECCA – STEAKHOUSE – WINEBAR ..................................................... 19 Brookside Lumber ................................................................................... 51 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service ..................................................................... 53 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC .............................................. 77 * Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office ......................... Back outside cover Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ............................................................. 73 Coldwell Banker–Dora Rudick ................................................................. 67 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................. 33 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 53 EQT Bridge Theater Series ....................................................................... 21 Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 35 G’s Landscaping ...................................................................................... 17 G’s Window and Gutter Cleaning ............................................................ 71

KMF Designs ........................................................................................... 33 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ........................................................ 41 Kittridge Dermatology ............................................................................ 40 Little Lake Theatre Company ................................................................... 18 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. .......................................................................... 41 Mister Sewer ..............................................................................................5 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center .................................................................9 Movement Mortgage–Kevin O’Laughlin ................................................. 67 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ............................................................ 41 * Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community .......................... 36 * Rusmur Floors .................................................................. Back inside cover * St. Clair Hospital ..................................................................................2, 79 St. Clair Plastic Surgery Associates .......................................................... 13 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .................................................................7 * Sesame Inn ............................................................................................. 18 South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1 South Hills Jewish Pittsburgh ................................................................. 19

What They Said We are very proud to support USC TODAY because of the quality content and diversity of the magazine. There are so many helpful feature sections and articles that USC residents look forward to, and we have had wonderful feedback and support from the community. It’s a great magazine!

—Michael Ference, COO, Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Goldfish Swim School ............................................................................. 75 Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling .................................. 75 Heartland Homes Bedner Estates ..............................................................7 * Howard Hanna USC Office .............................................. Front inside cover * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ............................................................... 17 Jacksons Restaurant + Bar ..................................................................... 18

South Hills OBGYN, Dr. Robert Rankin, MD, FACOG ....... Front cover, 10, 11 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ....................................................... 37 Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................... 41 Washington Health System .................................................................... 38 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ............................ 15

The winter 2018 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a great opportunity to advertise in USC’s widely-read community magazine! Our advertisers know this and have responded wonderfully by placing their ads in our publication! *The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 48 issues. Thank you.

Let guide you into 2019 with great ad placement.

2019 Spring Guides

Celebration and Home Improvement

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1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

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COLDWELL BANKER WE MOVE UPPER ST. CLAIR

Hope Bassichis

Noel Bliman

Mary Lou Borchert

Anita Crago

Barbara Cusick

Lynn Dempsey

Janine Dillon

The John Geisler Team John Geisler | Michael Hornick | Carmela Viviano

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Charity Benefits Coldwell Banker South Hills Office ÂŽ

Elaine Goldblum

Genie Gooding

Leigh Harkreader

Nancy Heffernan

Maria Lane

Kim Lanphear

Julie Puzausky

Dora Rudick

Jane York

Milo Hindman Manager

2018 HOLIDAY BREAKFAST Breakfast, Auction Items & Photos With Santa!

Judy Hlister

Kathi Kernan

Friday, December 7th, 2018 | 8:30 am Crowne Plaza Suite | 164 Fort Couch Rd. | Upper St. Clair To purchase tickets or make a donation, call Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, 412.833.5405 Proceeds Benefit

Julie Leslie

Ron Loncharich

Kathy Sekeras

Laura Simon

Diane Snyder

Mary Torchia

Jim Walsh

Mary Ann Wellener

Julie Welter

Faith Williard

ColdwellBankerHomes.com/SOUTHHILLS South Hills | 1630 Washington Road | Pittsburgh, PA 15241 | 412.833.5405 Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Charity Benefits is a chapter of the Realogy Charitable Foundation, Inc., a 501 (C) (3) public charity incorporated in Delaware (Tax ID 20-0755090).

The mission of the Realogy Charitable Foundation is to direct the Realogy Holdings Corp.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philanthropic and volunteer activities, working to improve the quality of life in communities where Realogy Holdings Corp. has a presence. .

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