WINTER 2021 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021 Guides Winter Festivities Life Planning

www.twpusc.org/usctoday

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

Buy and sell with confidence.

We guarantee it.

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

Robbins Bobbitt Sales Director

Bonnie Bagay

Lynne Bingham

Kirstan Boettger

Del Burrell

Maureen Cavanaugh

Kerrie Constantini

Brad Cetnarowski

Tammy Fazio

Janet Hensler

Susan Highley

Diane Horvath

Jess Hutchinson

Rebecca Holder

Frankie Kunselman

Chris Longenecker

Marie Mageras

Kathy McCloskey

Katie Nath

Alex Perdziola

Beth Thomas

Wendy Vespa

Jody Yurcich

Izzy Zehner

LIST WITH THE EXPERT. GET EXPERT RESULTS. ■MORE BUYERS ■MORE OFFERS ■MORE MONEY

David Limauro, MD • Mark Cedar, DO • Nicholas Bellicini, DO • Xuong Lu, MD • David Glorioso, MD • Lisa Oliva, DO • Robert J. Pagano, M.D. • Theresa Schuerle, D.O. • Jungmin Leo Lee, M.D.

SOUTH HILLS ENDOSCOPY CENTER Located at 2589 Boyce Plaza Road in Upper St. Clair

IS A STATE-OF-THE-ART FULL CARE ENDOSCOPY FACILITY PROVIDING BOTH COLONOSCOPY AND UPPER ENDOSCOPY SCREENINGS AND SERVICES South Hills Endoscopy Center is an independently owned and operated endoscopy center, which may lower your out of pocket health care costs.

“Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life.”

• We treat acid reflux, heartburn, ulcers, diarrhea, liver disease, fecal incontinence, change in bowel habits and hemorrhoids • Physicians on staff at St. Clair Hospital and UPMC Mercy Hospital • “Compassionate, personalized Anesthesia Care”

Most insurance carriers accepted

Call today

2589 Boyce Plaza Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-838-0400

412.232.8104 2589 Boyce Plaza Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-838-0400 412-232-8104

100 Stoops Drive, Suite 280 Monongahela, PA 15063 724-565-5164

Private Tours

AVAILABLE DAILY 11-6 PM The Best-Selling Neighborhood in the South Hills

LifeatHastings.com

800.325.3030

1502 Orion Road Bridgeville, PA 15017

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

WHO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE!

Barbara Baker Team* 412-403-5950

Lynn Banbury 412-680-5000

Justin Christy 412-478-7474

Brian and Karen Cummings Team** 412-720-5475

Bob Dini 412-855-2058

Dan Gillette 412-403-7071

Kathy Hallberg 412-400-7299

Liz Hoyson 412-298-8825

Lori Maffeo*** 412-519-9162

Elva Marotta 412-287-4542

Christina Watson & Lisa Murovich 412-915-7276

Jennifer Orebaugh 412-370-5288

Heather Orstein 412-596-5669

Nila Porter 412-913-5138

Valerie Rose 412-359-9677

Michelle Schocker & Ruth Weigers**** 412-725-5663

Let us help you find your way home!

Call one of our award-winning Mt. Lebanon Regional & Upper St. Clair sales associates.

Melissa Shipley Team***** Judy Smith Team****** 412-849-2413 412-583-3603

LuAnn Stewart 412-951-8003

Adam Valeriano 412-496-7444

Micole Tucker, Manager 412-861-3095

Mt. Lebanon Regional Office

Upper St. Clair Office

1679 Washington Road

1797 N. Highland Road

412.833.7700

412.831.0100

WE’RE HIRING!

THE BEST AGENTS WORK HERE AND SO SHOULD YOU! Contact Micole Tucker for more information

The Preferred Realty

*Barbara Baker Team - Terry Abbott, Barbara Baker, Kate Clemons, Daniel Colaizzi, Doug Craig, Kim Kocher, Lindsey Schafer, Kristen Shaw, Stephanie Stewart **Brian and Karen Cummings Team - Thomas Purcell, licensed assistant ***Lori Maffeo Team - Dinesh Gupta, licensed assistant ****Michelle Schocker/Ruth Weigers - Krista Pratley, Karen Coyle, Garrett Weigers, Ryan Campbell, Judy Ward, Kelly Rackley, Hanna Ketterman *****Melissa Shipley Team - Hailey Means, Tawyna Baier and Ashley Lowry, licensed assistants ******Judy Smith Team - Doug Smith and Michaela Smith

©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Winter 2021

•

Volume 27

www.twpusc.org/usctoday •

10

•

Issue 4

usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Features & Around the Township

Remembering Tunch Ilkin—a Model Citizen

12

Distinction through Simplicity 18 My Turn to “Tri”

14

Divine Delivery

16

49

USC Alumni Spotlight

52

AP Scholars

56

#They Did What

58

Pawprints, a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

Another War in Vietnam

Guides/ Directories

68

15241 TODAY talk, On Stage with Jim & Lanny

Township 40 TCS EMS Director Retires

29

Morton Field Complex Survey Results

31

Expanding Restaurant Options in USC

32

Township Library Awarded Pennsylvania Forward Gold Star

43

SCBA Washer Helps Keep Firefighters Safer

20 Winter Festivities 44 Local Clubs and Organizations

45 Pinebridge Commons 60 Life Planning 80 Advertiser Index Photo Op

47 Back to Class!

Coming Next Issue

USCHS’s 2021 Homecoming festivities

48 USCHS Halls of Fame To get you excited for the winter season, the front cover is courtesy of the staff of UPPER ST CLAIR TODAY; photo by Linda Dudzinski.

Interested in purchasing a TODAY cover?

Contact usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us for specifications and rates.

65 Horses with Hope 4

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

School District

Know the costs before the care.

When you’re considering where to go for a procedure or surgery, you should be able to know what your care will cost before you choose a provider. And at St. Clair Health, you can. Because since 2016, our online price estimator tool has helped put patients at ease— and in control. Our Patient Estimates™ lets you know your out-of-pocket costs up front, before you receive care. So there’s no mystery.

No sticker shock. No putting off needed care for fear of the cost. Just the peace of mind of knowing what you’ll be paying for St. Clair’s award winning care.

Find out more at: stclair.org/PatientEstimates

St. Clair accepts all major insurances.

stclair.org

Expert care from people who care.

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

The award-winning, official publication of the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit School District and Township of Upper St. Clair 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 27 years of our publication.

Spring 2022 edition deadlines: Articles–January 13 Advertising–January 17 Summer 2022 edition deadlines: Articles–March 17 Advertising–March 21 Website: www.twpusc.org/usctoday Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us @usctoday

The 108 th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

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

Advertising Executive Sarah Beitler, Marketing Executive,

Advertising Executive Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer Student Interns Julia Roeschenthaler Bria Zegarelli

Mark Mansfield, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Sarah Beitler, Kerry Turner, 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.

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

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

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

6

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the Spring 2022 issue and will be published in March 2022. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues.

Articles and announcements may be sent to: Editor UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Article Information Editor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681 Advertising Information Office Manager Colleen DeMarco phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 fax: 412-851-2592 Ad file submission: dclark@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Judge Ronald Arnoni, Becky Brindle, Cindy Brophy, Paul Brown, Martina Caruso, Lynn Dempsey, Ed Di Gangi, Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Tim Gagne, George Girty, Christian Gmiter, Sandy Goldstein, Dr. Ed Kellly, John Komisary, Jay Lynch, Rep. Natalie Mihalek, Michael Moore, Jim O’Brien, Kevin O’Laughlin, Julia Roeschenthaler (intern & YWG), Dora Rudick, Marilyn Walsh, Fiona Wang (YWG), and Bria Zegarelli (intern & YWG).

Thank you also to the USCHS marching band managers for their help this past August. Voluntarily giving of their time, they inventoried and sorted magazines related to the fall edition of TODAY. Their assistance was invaluable and appreciated!

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District, grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of interest for our community magazine. Email usctoday@uscsd. k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute.

The 108th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2021.

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.

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

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

Angela B. Petersen

Printed by Freeport Press 2127 Reiser Ave. SE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663

Jennifer A. Schnore

Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

A Winter Note from the Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Welcome to the winter edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. It is quite amazing how quickly a year can pass, as we find ourselves once again pulling out coats, boots, and gloves.

There are a number of activities and events this winter that center on outdoor activity to help keep you warm and cheerful. Check out the Winter Festivities Guide found on pages 20–24, which includes the order form for the Township-cherished tradition of luminaria, the USC Volunteer Fire Department Santa sleigh ride, and an article written by one of TODAY’s interns about fun things to do in and around Pittsburgh this holiday season.

When checking out the Township section (pages 26–44), take note of all the holiday-inspired activities at the C&RC, as well as Christmas tree safety hints offered by the Volunteer Fire Department. The library shares its selection of holiday books for kids to enjoy, specifically, fun picture book suggestions for our youngest readers’ pleasure. Read the article on new restaurant options in our area; find out what’s coming when and where. Become familiar with the information in the Winter Storm Emergencies article to learn what to do and what not to do when a storm hits our area. The Township also shares important information about national flood insurance programs. There is a lot to catch up with regarding news in the Township!

The School District feature section (pages 46–59) starts off with a collage of photos taken on the first day of school, followed by highlights of the 2020–21 Halls of Fame induction ceremony and its nine honorees. There are stories about school alumni and staff members, as well as scholarly students and their outstanding performance in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Snippets of student-centered information in #They Did What is followed by Pawprints, a USC Parent Teacher Council feature. The School District section is a must read for parents of school-age children, as well as all residents of our community!

If there is something you would like to learn more about, please let us know. We use this magazine as one of our platforms to communicate news to our residents. Started in 1994, TODAY’s initial mission—promoting the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of people who live and work here—remains its message today. Celebrating the end of its 27th year of publication, we are grateful to have the opportunity to serve your needs in this manner.

As the temperatures continue to dip and we see signs of the approaching blustery season, the staff of TODAY, along with the staff and administration of the Upper St. Clair School District and Township of Upper St. Clair, wish our residents a joyous holiday season and a great start to the New Year!

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

www.twpusc.org/usctoday | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

“Scott Bros. comes highly recommended in the Upper St. Clair area.”

SCOTT BROS. Windows and Doors

Call us today for FREE estimate

724.745.2376

www.scottbroswindows.com

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

9

Remembering Tunch Ilkin—a Model Citizen Jim O’Brien

Tunch Ilkin lived in an apartment atop Mt. Washington in recent years, but he called Upper St. Clair home for nearly 35, living in two different houses in our South Hills community. From his deck overlooking Grandview Avenue, he saw the skyline of the city, as well as Heinz Field (where he left his indelible mark) and PNC Park.

So, it should be a point of community pride to know that Tunch was inducted Tunch Ilkin, in his posthumously into the Pittsburgh Steelers’ younger days Hall of Honor November 13–14, when the Steelers hosted the Detroit Lions. Also honored were former teammates Jon Kolb, Carnell Lake, and Louis Lipps.

“It is an honor to be included in the Hall of Honor,” said Tunch, when the announcement of this class was made last summer. “I looked up to Mike Webster, Joe Greene, Larry Brown, Jon Kolb, and so many of the great Super Bowl teams. I learned so much from them. I remember when I first reported to the Steelers’ summer training camp at St. Vincent in 1980. I felt like I was at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, seeing all those great players, including Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Lambert, Franco Harris, Rocky Bleier, Dwight White, John Banaszak, L.C. Greenwood, and Mike Wagner, among others. They not only taught me how to be a pro football player, but also how to be a good husband, good father, and man of faith. This is more than a football team; it’s a brotherhood that I’m honored to be a part of.”

It was quite the coincidence that the Pittsburgh Pirates were celebrating Lou Gehrig Day on Thursday, June 3, 2021, at PNC Park, a day later than celebrations at most other major league baseball fields took place. The players’ uniforms donned a small patch of the “4/ALS” logo placed over their hearts. The number 4 was Gehrig’s number. ALS was the disease that killed him.

The Pirates’ 2021 schedule included a rare open date on Wednesday, June 2, thus the one-day delay in the celebration.

The telecast of their Thursday game against the Miami Marlins was interrupted by a news flash with video images of Tunch Ilkin— former Steelers’ player and current color analyst for the Steelers— and the announcement that he was retiring from his broadcast duties to devote full-time to his treatment for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Tunch did not speak or answer questions at a press conference held that day at the Steelers’ South Side training complex. He’d been diagnosed with ALS the previous September, and made a public announcement about it one month later. The following was an update, or the latest development, and included a typewritten statement from Tunch that was handed out to the media: “I have had 37 years in the NFL, 14 as a player and the last 23 in broadcasting as the color analyst for the Pittsburgh Steelers Radio Network, and I’ve decided to retire.”

On an earlier occasion, Tunch said, “I want to fight this thing with the help of God. I’m not going to lie down and take this lightly.”

Major League Baseball would like to call more attention to ALS and the need for research funding to combat this insidious and debilitating disease that weakens the muscles. Currently, there is no cure. I would not be surprised if the Steelers urge the NFL to follow suit and adopt ALS as a league-wide cause.

10

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spine. Those affected lose their ability to walk, talk, and, eventually, breathe. Nearly 5000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year, with a two- to five-year average life expectancy. After I learned of Tunch’s illness, I reached out several times to talk with him. He’d previously always been so cooperative, but I understood his reluctance to talk. He never called back.

A shocker for the Steelers’ family during the 2020 season— already strange because of the imposed mandates from the coronavirus pandemic—was the news that Tunch was sick. With his speech affected, his on-air discussions sometimes lagged, while he searched for the next word in his football commentary.

Craig Wolfley, a sideline reporter for the Steelers’ radio broadcasts, was not allowed on the sidelines due to the NFL restrictions caused by the pandemic, but his broadcast responsibilities expanded. “He would jump in and say something if Tunch was wordless,” said Bill Hillgrove, the Steelers’ long-time play-by-play announcer. “We weren’t allowed at the road games, but we’d watched them on a TV screen. So, it [announcing this season] was different, start to finish.”

Wolfley made an observation about his best buddy. “He was such a strong, determined man, always unflinching in whatever he faced.” Wolfley succeeded Tunch as the Steelers’ radio analyst and color man, and Max Starks was added to the broadcast crew.

As a player, Tunch was initially cut by the Steelers after his first training camp at St. Vincent. He travelled back to Chicago, where he took a maintenance job at a local gym. He continued to work out daily. During that time, a Steelers’ offensive lineman got injured, and Tunch got his second chance. He made the most of it and of his career. He played twice in the Pro Bowl and finished his NFL career as a Green Bay Packer.

June 2 is an important date. It was the day Lou Gehrig began his record-breaking streak as the starting first baseman for the New York Yankees. And, it was also the date when he ended his 16-year career in 1938. Exactly three years later on June 2, 1941, he died at the age of 37. Known as “The Iron Horse,” he batted fourth in the Yankees’ lineup, behind Babe Ruth. He played in 2130 consecutive games, a streak that was later surpassed by only one player, Cal Ripkin of the Baltimore Orioles. Ripkin’s record is now regarded as a record not likely to be broken. Gehrig’s record lasted 56 years before Ripkin surpassed it by playing in 2632 games.

Gehrig announced his retirement before 62,000 fans at Yankee Stadium in one of the most memorable speeches in sports history.

“For the past two weeks, you’ve been reading about a bad break,”

Tunch Ilkin and his longtime pal, Craig Wolfley

he said over the P.A. system, while standing on the field. “Yet, today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

This scene was depicted in the movie Pride of the Yankees, starring actor Gary Cooper as Lou Gehrig. During my sports writing career, I covered the Yankees in the 1972 and 1973 seasons and met a lot of former players, but never Gehrig. He died a year before I was born. I did spend an evening at a roundtable during an Old Timers game at Yankee Stadium in the company of Eleanor Gehrig, Lou’s widow, and Claire Ruth, the second wife and widow of Babe Ruth. Eleanor was a reserved, rather staid, woman, while Claire, a former showgirl, was quite full of life.

Since his diagnosis, there were many difficult days for Tunch, dealing with the physical aspects and limitations of ALS, as well as for his family and friends and ardent Steelers’ fans. At age 63, he passed away on September 4 of this year. Being a man of strong faith, Tunch never complained about his fate. He, too, considered himself to be a lucky man.

Tunch was a favorite of Art Rooney, Sr. and his son, Dan, who chaired the franchise. Both faithful Catholics, they appreciated that Tunch was a spiritual man. He was the team’s apostle, promoting proper behavior and gratitude for God. Art Rooney II, the current president of the team, was just as big a fan. There have been some special people in the Steelers’ organization, top to bottom, but none better than Tunch.

“It will be a different world without Tunch in the booth,” said Bill Hillgrove. “I got many years with him, and those times won’t go away easily or quickly. His perspective on the game can’t be replaced. But, mostly, I’ll miss his humanity. He’s one of the best people I’ve ever been around.”

When Tunch was two years old, his family emigrated from Turkey to the U.S. and settled in the Chicago area. He starred as a high school football player in the city’s Highland Park area and as a college player at Indiana State University during the time when the Sycamores had a famous basketball player named Larry Bird.

When the Steelers drafted Tunch for the 1980 season, he was the only NFL player to be born in Turkey.

Tunch’s girlfriend, Sharon Senefeld, an ISU cheerleader, was pictured with Larry Bird on the cover of Sports Illustrated. The best Tunch ever did in that respect was to have his helmet appear in the corner of an SI cover. He and Sharon later married and had three children: Tanner, Natalie, and Clay. The kids would tease their dad that their mom made the cover of a national sports magazine, while he did not.

In 2012, after battling cancer, Sharon died. The following year, Tunch married a close family friend, Karen Rafferty.

Every Wednesday at dawn, when the sky is still a dark blue, Tunch and a group of his best friends, including Craig Wolfley and Leo Wisniewski, would have a walkin-prayer along Grandview Avenue and neighboring streets. I’ve had the g o o d f o rt u n e t o have these men appear as speakers at my monthly Good Guys Luncheons at Steelers’ broadcast team included, left to right, Atria’s Restaurant in

McMurray. Wisniewski played football at Penn State and then for several years in the NFL. Tunch was a minister at the Bible Chapel, a church in McMurray, and would make appearances at other congregations.

Additionally, and along with Craig Wolfley, he was a guiding force for and big supporter of the Light of Life Mission, a homeless shelter on Pittsburgh’s Northside for many years.

When Tunch was in good health, he visited me at my Upper St. Clair home, and told his story for one of my early books that focused on the Steelers. He also appeared on my behalf as a featured speaker in a series of fundraising dinners at Asbury Heights, a senior care facility in Mt. Lebanon. In a five-year period, I was fortunate to have Tunch and four other men from the sports world offer profound talks, including former Pirates’ manager Chuck Tanner and former Steelers Rocky Bleier, Mike Wagner, and Andy Russell. Now, Wagner and Russell are each dealing with difficulties of their own.

Raising $45,000 through their efforts, the funds are being used to help the facility’s residents who’ve run out of money to pay for their continuing care. No resident is ever turned away. My mother, Mary O’Brien, lived there for four and a half years, and my in-laws, Barbara and Harvey Churchman, for shorter stays when they both required full-time care. While on the board of Asbury Heights, the fundraising was a way that I could thank and support them for their wonderful care of my loved ones.

Craig Wolfley was a neighbor of mine when we both lived in Upper St. Clair’s Trotwood Hills. Tunch and Wolfley were both drafted by the Steelers in 1980, Wolfley drafted one round ahead of Tunch. During that summer training camp, Wolfley’s father was dying of cancer, and Tunch was impacted by how Wolfley relied on his strong faith to deal with that difficult family challenge. Tunch grew up a Muslim, and then became an atheist. But, as a result of his friendship with Wolfley, a fellow Steelers’ offensive lineman and roommate on the road, Tunch found God and converted to Christianity. “The Bible is our playbook for life,” he would be heard remarking. He became so affected by his new spiritual life that he was emboldened to convert Myron Cope, a proud Jew who also resided in Upper St. Clair, to become Christian. While he failed in that attempt, it became a source of amusement between Myron and Tunch for many years.

Steelers’ owner Art Rooney, a proud Catholic, used to tease him, too. “Tunch, me boy, tell me,” Rooney would remark, “are the Turks still killing one another like the Irish?”

Tunch always considered himself to be a team player. During his 13 seasons as a Steelers’ offensive tackle, he served as a team captain and player representative. After retiring from playing, he declined an offer from Bill Cowher to join the Steelers’ offensive line coaching staff. “Six months earlier, I heard that Coach was going to offer me a job,” said Tunch, “and I prayed to God to help me make the right decision for me and my family.”

A tempting offer, Tunch came close to saying yes, but in the end, he decided to pursue a media role. Coaching football at the pro or college level is all-consuming, and it leaves little time for anything else. He decided to put his family first, not his own “need for personal validation,” as he put it. So Sharon, his wife of 18 years at the time, and their kids, Tanner, 14; Natalie, 11; and Clay, 8, would see more of him at home. Tunch would say, “When I visit schools or churches in the community, I am often Cont. on page 12

Tunch Ilkin, Myron Cope, and Bill Hillgrove.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

11

State Representative Natalie Mihalek 40th Legislative District

1121 Boyce Road, Suite 2200A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15241

724-942-2045 www.repmihalek.com

Facebook.com/RepMihalek

Distinction Through Simplicity Over the summer, I had the opportunity to visit former Nancy handed the keys over to the Young America’s Foundation, President Ronald Reagan’s Rancho del Cielo in Santa Barbara, leaving their belongings intact, so the home appears today the way California. It was an experience I won’t soon forget. Rancho del the Reagans left it, down to the bar of soap in the tiny shower that Cielo translates to “Ranch in the Heavens,” and the meaning of I questioned how a grown man could even fit inside.

The home is small and humble. You would never guess it once its name became more clear with each steep turn of a tour bus much too wide for the dirt path that led to the place the Reagans served as the Western White House except for the two presidential seals on the property, one of which is mounted hastily on the hood used as their home away from home.

Ronald and Nancy Reagan purchased the of Reagan’s riding lawnmower. He spent years home and surrounding property in 1974, erecting a fence around the home made from near the end of his second term as California old telephone poles. In the master bedroom, governor and before he was elected to serve two twin beds were pushed and bound toas our nation’s 40th President. Reagan had gether with a zip tie. To account for his 6'1" surmised that the more time he spent at the stature, a small bench was placed to catch his feet from dangling off the bottom edge of ranch, the longer he would live. Rancho del the bed. To create privacy from an intrusive Cielo would function as the headquarters of paparazzi lens, a few trees were planted in the solitude for Reagan throughout many diffront yard near the home. ficult periods of his presidency.

I’ve thought a lot about President Reagan Presidential duties at the ranch included since my visit to the ranch. About how he making telephone calls to heads of state and Looking down at the house from the barn; Ronald Reagan would ring the bell once he chose introspection when faced with difficult Cabinet members, celebrities, and athletes. had Nancy’s horse ready for riding. decisions, and trusting that while his body He met there with his White House staff, his Cabinet, Vice President George Bush, and heads of state. Several was performing the duties of caring for an entire ranch, his mind significant events occurred while Reagan was at the ranch, in- was given the freedom to wander and solve the challenges of the cluding a signing ceremony for the Economic Recovery Tax Act, day. Reflecting on his simplistic approach to worldly possessions a decision to fire 11,359 striking air traffic controllers, and the gives me pause on the value we place on our “things” and the value we place on filling up all of our spare moments. President bombing of the U.S. embassy in Beirut.

After he became ill and could no longer care for the ranch, Reagan, an impressive man with unimpressive things. n Remembering Tunch Ilkin—a Model Citizen Cont. from page 11

known as Tanner’s dad, or Natalie’s dad, or Clay’s dad, and that’s fine with me.”

“About to begin my third year as an analyst on radio broadcasts and teamed on WDVE-FM with Bill Hillgrove and Myron Cope, my wife said that I was starting to talk too fast, and that sometimes I sounded like Myron,” kidded Tunch. “That comes from keeping company with him all season. It was a real blast!” he said.

Tunch also did Steelers’ pre-game and post-game shows with Sam Nover at WPXI TV. Similar work led to network opportunities for two of his former teammates, Mark Malone and Merril Hoge. Tunch had a few chances to do network analysis, as well, and did some consulting work on offensive line techniques with NFL teams and at summer training camps. This kept him involved with the game and in the environment he enjoyed, yet allowed him time to coach his kids’ youth sports teams and maintain a strong commitment to his church.

Tunch didn’t believe young people should look to sports figures for their role models. But, being grounded and personable, he set a good example for everyone to follow. When I attended a Christian program in Bethel Park that he spoke at a number of years ago, he had encouraging words and hugs for all 11 young men and women who received awards that day.

Tunch said that it is disheartening to hear negative news 12

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

surrounding the bad behavior of certain pro football players, as well as other pro athletes. He went on to say that there’s too much ego in sports these days. “I hate it when you see guys calling attention to themselves on every play. They make a simple tackle or gain five yards, and they’re running around waving their arms and pointing to themselves,” he said. “Unfortunately, it’s the ‘me-me-me’ generation. But, I say… it’s what you’re getting paid to do. Our coach, Chuck Noll, would tell us, ‘Look like you’ve been there before.’”

Tunch has been there before. He played with and against the best of the best. And, he would have been great as a coach, too, had he pursued that role.

When he attended the funeral service for former teammate Steve Furness, who passed away at the young age of 49, it reminded him about the brevity of life.

Tunch would make the most of his time left here on earth. “My wife and children are the most important people in my life,” he said, “and it’s them who I want to look after and mentor.”

And in his 63 years, he did just that, and a whole lot more. n Jim O’Brien has written a dozen books about the Pittsburgh Steelers in his “Pittsburgh Proud” series, with his latest, The Strangest Season–The Pittsburgh Scene 2020-2021.

Google Pittsburgh sports author Jim O’Brien.

RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE District Court 05-2-20 Office: 412-835-1661 Fax: 412-835-4060

Hiras Professional Building 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Bethel Park, PA 15102

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

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

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

Outstanding Citizens Award best meets the criteria by using the nomination form below. For nominee consideration, a nomination form must be submitted

by Friday December 3, 2021. I will read all entries and choose the two honorees, each being presented with a commemorative medal and certificate. We will also pay tribute to the recipients with a photo and an article about their accomplishments in a future edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, as well as on local channels, Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42.

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

Outstanding Citizens Award Nomination Form

This award will be presented to an individual who has consistently: • Demonstrated excellent community leadership • Made significant contributions to our communities • Positively impacted the residents of our communities • Shown generosity and unselfishness through his or her actions Nominees should meet the above listed criteria and have resided in Bethel Park or Upper St. Clair, respectively, for at least two years. You cannot self-nominate.

Name of Nominee: _______________________________________ Email: _____________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________

Phone #:_________________________

Describe the attributes and qualifications of the nominee and the reason(s) why you believe this individual should be honored (use a separate sheet of paper, if necessary). _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Your name (nominator):_________________ Phone #:________________ Email: ________________________________ How you know the nominee: ___________________________________________________________________________ Return this application by Friday, December 3, 2021, via mail to: Judge Ron Arnoni Hiras Professional Building 2414 Lytle Rd #200 Bethel Park, PA 15102 or Fax your application to 412-835-4060 or send an email (with attachment) to heather.petronio@mdjs.pacourts.us.

I hope this inspires you to participate in the nomination process! Again, thank you.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

13

Divine Delivery Jay Lynch

Many USC residents lament the inevitable loss of our daily newspapers in print form as we move to digital consumption of our news. At many homes, the Post-Gazette and Tribune Review delivered the news and had many unintended uses, including dog discipline (when rolled up), bird cage lining (when smoothed out), and keeping our boots insulated from the freezing concrete of Heinz Field (and Three Rivers Stadium) during Steelers games. When I was a paperboy in the early ’60s, daily delivery of the Post-Gazette meant much more, spanning the moral spectrum from taboo thrills to spiritual revelation.

Newspaper delivery was an honorable job at the time, with prestige that far exceeded grass cutting or snow shoveling. Paper routes were coveted. So, when AJ Isacco passed the Washington Terrace paperboy job to me, I was thrilled. Until I discovered the realities of the job.

There were two daily newspapers at the time. The Post-Gazette (P-G) was delivered Monday through Saturday mornings and the Press was delivered weekday evenings and Sunday mornings.

Today’s kids would call them twice-daily non-interactive newsfeeds. I had the morning route, which was quite a shock to my youthful biorhythms. On weekdays, I had to get out of bed by 5 a.m. to complete my route by the required 6:30 a.m. deadline. I was always in a rush to eat breakfast and then walk, or sometimes run, to Fort Couch School in time for the morning bell. I could have completed my route more quickly, and slept longer, if my budding capitalistic instincts hadn’t driven me to seek bigger tips through exceptional customer service.

Most paperboys delivered papers via bicycle, throwing tightly folded (semi-aerodynamic) papers from the street while in motion. This approach reduced delivery time, but irritated customers when misfired papers landed in shrubs or on porch roofs. Nothing annoyed my pajama-clad father more than having to use a broom to knock the morning paper off the porch roof and struggle to flatten out the folds before enjoying his morning coffee. If his paper was delivered wet, his colorful language was loud enough to wake the neighbors.

In an attempt to eliminate these problems, I took the extra time to walk my route, carefully placing unfolded papers at each door or under a porch roof. Since storm doors were always unlocked (a Pittsburgh tradition), 14

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

I’d place papers inside the doors, so customers wouldn’t have to face the elements. Even better, if door pumps were at waist height, I’d wedge papers against the pumps so customers wouldn’t even have to bend over! I quickly learned to alter this approach if dogs went berserk when they heard the storm door open at 6 a.m. I also knew the limits of every outside dog’s chain. The anticipation of great tips made the extra service and dog evasion tactics appear worthwhile. My goal was to have enough financial success to fund a lifetime subscription to MAD magazine. But that goal seemed unlikely when I learned how difficult it would be to collect money from customers.

The “collecting” protocol was dictated by the P-G and had to be followed. The tools provided were a book of tear-off receipts and a manually-operated coin dispenser that was designed to streamline the change-making process. But, the dispenser jammed so often that a pocket full of coins was far more efficient. Collecting was usually a Saturday afternoon trip around the route, knocking on doors and asking customers to pay 42 cents for the prior week’s service. The daily paper cost customers seven cents, and cost me five, so I made a two-cent profit per paper per day (assuming I was successful at collecting.) Since the P-G route manager, a gruff middle-aged man, sternly demanded his money every week, I was forced to be both diligent and persistent. So, Saturday afternoons stretched into Sunday afternoons and weekday evenings, as profitability depended on arriving when people were at home.

Most customers were very pleased with my service and paid every week, along with the nice tips I had anticipated. However, there were a few customers who turned a potential financial success into a break-even business at best.

Significant cash flow problems came from customers who were rarely at home when I was collecting. I wasn’t sure whether this was simply bad luck, or they saw me coming and refused to answer their doorbells. My suspicion was confirmed one evening when a customer’s house went dark the moment I stepped on the driveway.

When I would finally make contact with delinquent customers, I’d be asking for large amounts of (overdue) money, which would result in angry words about “letting it go so long.” Their scolding reminded me of an aunt that my family always avoided.

Every time we visited her, she spent the entire time complaining about us not visiting her enough.

I learned a useful skill while collecting: making change (a process that disappeared with the advent of computerized cash registers). However, a few jokesters would try to “throw me off” by handing me cash that exceeded the amount due by odd amounts.

It was the “dad joke” of the ’60s: messing with the head of the paperboy. Mr. Johnson on Keifer Drive was so consistent with his change-making math challenges that, one evening, I broke with my well-rehearsed politeness and slipped into sarcasm. “You know, Mr. Johnson, it gets funnier every time you do it.” He never hassled me again, but he also never gave me another tip. I learned that there’s a price to pay for being a smart aleck.

The paperboy job was far more difficult than I had anticipated, so I complained to my dad about the hard work and lack of tips from the people who didn’t seem to appreciate my extra service. I

should have known better than to expect sympathy. He said, “Son, sometimes hard work is like peeing your pants while wearing a dark suit. It gives you a nice, warm feeling, but nobody notices.”

But he also said something useful: I needed to be more creative about how I collected money. So, I decided to take a risk and circumvent the official P-G process. My plan was to leave small envelopes with “amount due” notes in Friday papers and ask customers to put their payments in their mailboxes or under their welcome mats on Friday nights, so I could pick them up during Saturday delivery.

It worked like a charm! Even with consistent deadbeats. My cash flow problem was solved, and I had eliminated the time and headaches of door-to-door collecting. All my customers were up to date with their payments within two weeks. Being a paperboy suddenly became lots of fun, and I didn’t mind as much about having to get up so early.

Then, the job got better. While on my usual route on a trash collection day, I noticed a stack of magazines wrapped with twine in front of the Jackson’s house on Locust Lane. When I looked closer, my heart jumped. They were Playboy magazines!

I’d struck pre-teen male gold! I did a cursory check with my conscience about the legality of removing items from someone’s trash, and also looked around to see if Alan Funt’s candid camera was watching me. All clear. So, I stashed the magazines in my paper delivery bag.

When I finished the route, I clandestinely climbed our backyard maple tree and hid the newfound treasure in the treehouse I’d built with my buddies when we were younger. I figured they’d be safe there, as parents and girls were strictly prohibited. After school, I invited Mark Cahill, my best friend, to the treehouse.

Astounded, he quickly spread the word. My paperboy luck made me the most popular guy in the neighborhood, and our tree-house locker-room style debates quickly switched from Ginger versus Mary Ann to Miss July versus Miss May. Sunday was my day off from paper delivery, as my friend, Jack Oelschlager, had early morning duty with the Sunday Press, literally a heavy task.

However, I couldn’t enjoy the luxury of sleeping in because I had to attend Sunday Mass at St. Thomas More with my family, followed by CCD class, which was a postmass hour of religious education for kids who didn’t attend Catholic school. I always viewed CCD as mistargeted punishment inflicted on the children of Catholic parents who weren’t devout enough to send them to St. Thomas More School (a remedial training camp for young Catholics with DNA profiles that put them at risk of losing their faith).

My CCD teacher at the time was a nun named Sister Benedict.

I really liked her. She wasn’t overly dogmatic and was surprisingly tolerant of endless, pointed questions about church doctrine and the great mysteries of the Bible, like, “If the Catholic message is so important, why is it delivered in a language we can’t understand, Latin?” or “Why isn’t there an express confessional for eight sins or less?” or “The Bible says impossible things are real, like a talking snake. What’s up with that?” Sister Benedict always delivered answers with a kind smile, explaining that the mysteries

of faith are proof of the existence of God, which left her students bewildered, but touched by her kindness.

The paper route continued to be profitable, and I was well on my way to my MAD magazine goal, until disaster struck. One Saturday morning, there were very few payment envelopes in mailboxes or under welcome mats. I asked an early-riser if she left me a payment. She replied, “Yes.” Someone in the neighborhood had gotten wind of my streamlined payment system and stolen the envelopes from nearly all of my customers.

In panic mode, I realized that I wouldn’t be just a little short on my payment to the route manager, I’d be bankrupt! And, I couldn’t tell him what happened, or he’d fire me for violating strict P-G collection procedures. When I told my parents what happened, my dad agreed to lend me enough money to pay the route manager.

I returned to the drudgery of door-to-door collecting. Given the resulting cash flow problems, it was clear that repaying my dad might take forever, and my personal savings account was kaput.

The paperboy job returned to drudgery.

A few weeks later, my mom called me into the kitchen for some exciting news. She said that a neighborhood mom had discovered a pile of money hidden in her son’s sock drawer, as well as ripped-up pieces of envelopes in their trash can. Having heard about the neighborhood theft, she called my mom to confess what her son had done and promised to punish him. She returned the money to my mom, but begged her to keep everything a secret.

She didn’t want to ruin her son’s life over a stupid mistake. My mom smiled, handed me the money, and gave me a kiss on the forehead. I was thrilled. I repaid my dad and replenished my savings. It was a miracle!

But, there was a five dollar bill in the pile of recovered cash.

All my customers had been paid-in-full at the time of the theft, so nobody would have used a five dollar bill to pay a bill that was only 42 cents. I began to think that my mom may have fabricated the story about her conversation with the mother of the thief. I realized that she had likely paid me out of her own hard-earned savings, including a five dollar bill that happened to be in her wallet. When I asked her if the story was true, she said, “Yes, dear. I’m delighted that your money was returned and you’re happy again.”

The next Sunday, after CCD class, I told Sister Benedict about the stolen money. I admitted that, despite my skepticism, I had prayed that God would find the money and return it to me.

Sister Benedict: “And, did he answer your call?”

Jay: “No, he didn’t. But, my mom did. She won’t admit it, but I’m pretty sure that she secretly gave me the money out of her incredible kindness and love.”

Sister Benedict: “Jay, who do you think made your mom the way she is?” n

St. Thomas More

Jay recently compiled his UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY articles into the book The Lighter Side of Upper St. Clair. See page 25 to learn how you can purchase it to benefit The Miracle League of the South Hills.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

15

Another War in Vietnam Ed Kelly, MD I have often been asked about my military experience, and what effect it has had on my life. There is no doubt that I benefited greatly from the medical and surgical experience to which I was exposed. However, the unsettling events of this past year found me reflecting as to what I learned about myself during those two years while I served.

I was raised in the East End of Pittsburgh in a white neighborhood. We swam at the Highland Park pool, where all patrons were white. There was a pool on Washington Boulevard that we called the Inkwell (I do not know its actual name). I attended a parochial school in Morningside, where all students were white.

There was one black student in the high school that I attended.

I first witnessed overt racism while in college. I was seated at a lunch table with a classmate from the south. An African student from Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service sat down at our table. The classmate moved to another table, announcing that a black person could not sit at our table. Shortly after that incident, I drove with a friend to Richmond, Virginia, because I was told that I would see things there that I’d never seen before.

For the first time in my life, I saw “whites only” fountains and “whites only” restrooms. There, I saw a part of the United States of which I was unaccustomed.

I attended medical school in Wisconsin. All of the students in my class were white. I have no recollection of racism there, although we medically treated a relatively large number of black citizens.

I returned to Pittsburgh and served my internship at Mercy Hospital. We treated a large population from the Hill District.

Many of the employees in the hospital were black. From my memory, they were treated well. The Sisters of Mercy encouraged a compassionate approach for all patient care, and I do not remember any mistreatment.

When I reported to Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California, for basic training, it was a fairly controlled environment. We had a black drill instructor and many black enlisted men who participated in our “education.” I don’t recall anything that caught my attention regarding racism.

We flew to Vietnam and landed in Danang. Upon arrival, a group of us were introduced to a Marine general. Welcoming us, he gave out our assignments. I was told to report to a Marine ground infantry unit at LZ Stud in Dong Ha, a part of the Vandergrift combat base. I spent four months there as the battalion surgeon, and with eight corpsmen, we were responsible for the health of about 750 Marines.

It did not take long after my arrival at LZ Stud for me to witness our U.S. troops living in two different worlds. Let me qualify what I’m saying by distinguishing between what I saw on the front lines versus what I saw in the “rear” noncombat areas.

I would accompany the battalion on a combat mission as part of the headquarters company. In the field, it was as though we were one race. I witnessed no racial divide.

In the rear area, though, we would often see racial graffiti on the walls of a four holer (outhouse). It was not unusual to see an occasional jeep or helicopter displaying a confederate flag. We had daily sick call. I recall being told by a black Marine that the only reason he was in Vietnam was because the judge offered him jail or the “crotch,” a slang term referencing the Marine Corps. He 16

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Triage room at the Third Medical Battalion, Vietnam

believed that the judge who sentenced him would have handled the sentencing of a white person differently. Some associated their complaints to mistreatment by one of the white noncommissioned officers in their unit. I often heard that blacks were assigned “dirty” jobs by the non-commissioned officer (NCO), including burning the contents of the four holer. It was not uncommon to hear the local Vietnam citizens calling a black Marine a “nigger.”

By 1968, the year Martin Luther King was assassinated, I had been transferred to the Third Medical Battalion that provided medical and surgical treatment for the I Corps area (northernmost provinces of Vietnam). A medical unit constructed by the Seabees for combat injuries, I was assigned to the surgical service. While I had witnessed many racial incidents prior to King’s death, things got much worse thereafter.

We were busy both day and night, but more so during the day. Night call was unpredictable. In addition to combat injuries, we saw a variety of other situations needing treatment, including tiger incidents, two of them fatal. Three Marines patrolling the periphery for their unit were attacked. An occasional drug overdose was common.

One night I received a call that, to this day, gives me chills. I was told by the corpsman that there were four wounded officers who had just been flown in. When I arrived and took the history, I was told that they were “fragged.” Thus, began a series of incidents that occurred in several battalions, and communication among the units resulted in sentries being stationed to guard the officers’ bivouac areas.

Word spread among the units that the way to address what felt to be racial mistreatment was to “frag the hooches” (a hooch refers to a plywood hut where four officers would sleep). Sometime after nightfall, a black Marine would crawl within throwing distance and heave a grenade at the hooch. I recall serious injuries as a result, but do not recall any fatalities.

In addition to posting sentries, I recall that we had a black anesthesiologist who had a very soothing, peaceful demeanor. He was asked to visit surrounding battalions to provide a calming effect among the troops.

So, to answer those who approach me with questions of how the military affected me, I recall the words of Walt Whitman, a man who devoted many hours to counseling the Civil War wounded. “The real war will never get in the books,” he’s quoted as saying.

As a result of my service to the United States in one war, the Vietnam War, I, in fact, witnessed two. While the newspapers were telling America of the daily accounts of an “ugly war,” our citizens were kept in the dark about the racial strife among American soldiers in Vietnam, especially after King’s assassination.

When my duty was over, I returned home with a realization and keen sense of awareness that I would otherwise not have had if I’d not served in the military during this war and at this time in American history. n For another story about Vietnam, “50 Years,” written by Dr. Ed Kelly, visit UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s website at www.twpusc.org/usctoday and search “Past Editions” for the fall 2018 issue, page 16.

Personalized training in a group setting Complimentary child watch Unlimited 45 minute camps Personalized nutrition guidance

Get started with us today !

EIGHT YEARS RUNNING

2013-2020

Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award Winner in Patient Satisfaction

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

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

17

My Turn to “Tri” Bria Zegarelli, USCHS Senior, TODAY Intern

Friends and family were there to support the athletes.

Swimming with a buddy

On the morning of August 15, several athletes and their families gathered at the Spencer Family YMCA for a very exciting, three-hour event: the My Turn to Tri Special Needs Triathlon. A race for kids and teens with any form of special needs, My Turn to Tri consists of multiple rounds of the following: ten minutes for swimming, 15 minutes for biking, and a one-mile walk/run. The athletes involved in the triathlon completed their events with buddies, who were usually either parents or siblings.

The progress for creating this project began about four years ago, when USC senior Ally Fishell and her sisters Gabrielle and Jillian saw a poster promoting a triathlon for adults with special needs. Having been in triathlons themselves, the Fishells saw the value in this activity and wanted to make it more inclusive and accessible for younger participants.

Their brother, Christian, who was born with Down syndrome, was also a tremendous inspiration for the My Turn to Tri race. Because Christian had expressed a desire to participate in a triathlon, it was important to his sisters that he would have the opportunity to do so.

Aided by Mike Lloyd, the Spencer Family YMCA’s director of mission advancement, the Fishell sisters first hosted My Turn to Tri in 2019. However, because of the coronavirus, the 2020 triathlon was canceled, creating concern about how successful this year’s race would be. After attending the 2021 race, however, I could see that there was no need for worry. The event was highly successful, drawing families and participants from multiple communities around Pittsburgh.

I could feel an overwhelming sense of love, care, and support from those who were cheering on the competitors, and it was heartwarming to see everyone come together with signs to encourage the athletes. One mom I talked with said that she loved the fact that the kids did not feel pressure to beat a certain time or goal; just participating in the triathlon was an accomplishment in itself. She also explained that she liked how the objective for the participants was not to try to beat one another, but to just have fun. Multiple other parents also talked about how their children had been excited about and trained for this event for weeks.

Even though the triathlon was not technically supposed to be about competition, some of the kids had fun bragging about their skills and posing for the many cameras. Apparent by the bright smiles on everyone’s faces, it was obvious that both the athletes and their loved ones were having a great time and enjoying the morning by participating in an event inspired by such a worthy cause.

All of the athletes looked victorious at the end of the triathlon, as they each had the opportunity to run through a finish line while holding a ribbon that said “Winner” on it. To congratulate the athletes on their

It’s thumbs up during the biking portion of the triathlon.

18

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Everyone is having fun during the one-mile walk/run portion.

SKATE—PLAY—WIN MT. LEBANON ICE CENTER’S FUN AND FRIENDLY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT PROVIDES THE FINEST PROGRAMS ON ICE FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS TO ADULTS IN THE PITTSBURGH AREA.

MT. LEBANON ICE CENTER

WHILE SOME OF OUR FALL/WINTER CLASSES HAVE STARTED, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO JOIN IN.

412-561-4363 Phone and online registrations are available. Visit www.mtlebanon.org WINTER HOCKEY SCHOOL 8 weeks—$160. 40-minute classes beginning 1/11/22.

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

DEVELOPMENTAL LEAGUE Stick Time 5–8 year old & 9–12 year old The Center will offer Stick Time on divisions. The Mt. Lebanon Ice Tuesdays from Noon to 1:50 pm.

Center’s Developmental League Full equipment is required begins 1/14/22, ON THE STUDIO (including helmet) - $8 RINK. The 8 game season league PLAY DATE ON ICE is noncompetitive, no-check; equal Every Tuesday, 9–11am. $5.00 ice time is guaranteed. To ensure each; preschool children with balanced teams, registration is on an adult. Light refreshments. an individual basis, with players Public Sessions rating each other. Enrollment Monday, Thursday, Friday: is limited. Full equipment is 9am–1:30pm required. Register in Dec. with Friday: 7:40–10pm—TGIF SK8 the rink cashier. The fee of $160 Saturday: 2:10–4 pm includes referee’s fee and game Saturday evening: Studio jersey.

7:10–9:00pm Sunday: 2:10–4 pm

accomplishments, each participant was given a trophy and a medal during an awards ceremony at the end of the event.

The My Turn to Tri special needs triathlon demonstrates the importance, as well as the positive impact, of providing opportunities for kids with special needs. The event reminds us that kids with special needs should be included in all of the fun opportunities that other kids have. With the limited number of events for those with special needs compared to the number of events for those without, it is beneficial for communities to take inspiration from Ally, Jillian, and Gabrielle’s efforts.

The Fishell sisters and everyone else involved with the My Turn to Tri triathlon did a wonderful job bringing a fun, rewarding

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

opportunity to our area. The girls’ passion, kindness, and dedication while creating this project exemplify empathy for others, as well as what all people should strive for when getting involved in their own community. The Fishells’ project serves as a reminder that putting in the time and effort to create new opportunities for kids with special needs positively impacts their lives and allows them to experience inclusion, which they obviously deserve and should have in the first place. n

A job well done

Crossing the finish line

Background information was researched with the help of https://www.post-gazette.com/life/goodness/2021/08/06/ My-Turn-to-Tri-special-needs-triathlon-Upper-St-Clair-High-Schoolcross-country-Down-syndrome-Fishell-family/stories/202108080002.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

19

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES Upper St. Clair to Host Light Up for Unity Night A Community Luminaria Tradition to Embrace All

Join your neighbors and other USC residents at Sunday, December 12, at dusk. Community members are further dusk on Sunday, December 12 for Upper St. Clair’s annual Light encouraged to turn on their assembled holiday outdoor light Up for Unity Night. displays to fully engage in this community-inspired opportunity.

For many years, the Upper St. Clair community has parLuminaria kits can be purchased from all USCHS instruticipated in joining its neighbors in lighting luminaria during mental students, who will make and deliver the kits by Sunday, the winter holidays. This year, the December 5. The kits can also be Community Foundation of Upper Regardless of what holiday we celebrate, ordered online at www.uscbpa.org.

St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair there are two things we find in common: The deadline to place an order is Band Parents Association are comWednesday, December 1. our hope for a more peaceful world ing together to host Light Up for In addition to selling single kits, and light to show us the way.

Unity Night to celebrate our comkits are also being sold in bundles munity and its differences. Regardless of what holiday we of two at a discounted price so that USC community members celebrate, there are two things we find in common: our hope can participate in the community’s Light Up for Unity Night for a more peaceful world and light to show us the way. and also set out luminaria on another evening to celebrate their To participate, USC residents need only set out luminaria on event or holiday of choice.

Many USC neighborhood associations are For questions or more information, visit www.uscbpa.org or email fundraising@uscbpa.org. coordinating the sale of luminaria for their neighborhoods. If your neighborhood asTo order your Luminaria kit, including 12 candles and bags and sand, sociation or particular group is interested to which will be delivered to your door by December 5, visit the USC band participate, contact Jennifer Pesci-Kelly at parents’ website at www.uscbpa.org and click on the “Order Luminaria” fundraising@uscbpa.org. link to order online. Paypal or credit cards are accepted for payment.

Proceeds from the luminaria sale help support Alternatively, complete and mail the order form found below with your the music programs in our schools and benefit all payment. Contact Jennifer Pesci-Kelly at fundraising@uscbpa.org or call instrumentalists at Upper St. Clair High School. n 412-576-6013 for more information.

2021 Luminaria Kit Order Form

(Order form and payment must be received no later than Wednesday, December 1.)

Name: ________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________________________ State:___________________Zip: __________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________ Total enclosed: $________________________________________________ Price of Kit: $15/kit; or 2 kits/$25.

Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association

20

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES

179 8 No r t h H ig h l a n d R o a d Pi t t s b urg h, PA 1 5 2 4 1

412-308-6260

w w w.clubhouse c a rdspgh . com Sto re h ours: Mo n d ay: closed Tue sd ay:1 2- 6 We d ne sd ay:1 2- 7 Thur sd ay: 1 2- 6 Frid ay: 1 2- 7 S aturd ay: 1 2- 5 S un d ay:12 - 5



WE DO: Buying, Selling, Sports Cards, Framing, Jerseys, Pictures, Fundraisers and so much more!

M e nt i o n t h i s a d a n d re ce i ve $ 1 0 dol l ar s off a purchas e of $ 1 0 0 or more



Santa Claus is Coming to USC On Saturday, December 11, the members of the USC Volunteer Fire Department will be escorting Santa Claus around Upper St. Clair Township before he returns to the North Pole to finalize his annual Christmas visit around the world. Check the USC VFD website at www.uscvfd.com for a schedule of the approximate time Santa and his sleigh will be in your neighborhood.

Listen for the sound of the sirens and wait at one of the street corners listed on the schedule. As always, Santa will have helpers from the fire department to answer any questions or concerns that you may have.

Take pictures of your friendly neighborhood Santa visit and post them on the fire department’s Facebook page.

We encourage you to also email your photos (high resolution of at least 1MB each) to TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, listing “Santa visit” and your name in the subject line to help us identify who sent them. Your photos might appear in a future edition of our community’s magazine! n Contact Santa Command at 412-835-3339 if you need further information about Santa’s route after visiting the website (www.uscsvd.com) for scheduled times.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

21

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES This Winter

A Season of Renewed Activity for the Pittsburgh Community Julia Roeschenthaler, USCHS Senior, TODAY Intern While winter 2020–21 offered limited activity, it’s no surprise that many Pittsburgh residents are looking forward to this coming holiday season and beyond in the hopes that the city will be able to present a wider array of events and resume some highly regarded traditions. While COVID-19’s Delta variant has undoubtedly created some challenges regarding planning and congregation, there are already many festivals, concerts, and events scheduled for this winter season.

A number of festivals—November through February—are set to take place, ranging from traditional Pittsburgh events like Light Up Night (Saturday, November 20), and the People’s Gas Holiday Market set to commence in Market Square in late November, to Pittsburgh Restaurant Week (January 10–16), a newer event created to advertise the many dining options around Pittsburgh. A similar food event takes place during the summer. During its August run this year, the turnout significantly increased from that of winter 2021, so expect that this winter’s event will be well attended. Another exciting food festival happening this winter includes the South Side Soup Festival, which typically takes place at the end of February. While the event was canceled this past February, it is set to kick off this coming year with a variety of spoon-worthy specials well-suited for the bitter Pittsburgh weather.

In yet another divergence from the previous year, several concerts are scheduled at various venues throughout the Pittsburgh area. In November and December, Sylvan Esso will play at Stage AE, Shakey Graves and R.E.M. will visit Club Cafe, Playboi Pittsburgh’s Light Up Night Carti will perform at the UPMC Events Center, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will play a holiday special titled Christmas Eve and Other Stories at the Roxian Theatre. In January and February, a number of popular artists are scheduled to perform in Pittsburgh, including Louis Tomlinson at Stage AE, and The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, Imagine Dragons, and John Mayer at PPG Paints Arena. Details regarding concert dates for the aforementioned artists and hundreds m o re a re a v a i l a b l e on a variety of sites, including TicketMaster and Live Nation.

Holiday Market in While nearly all of Pittsburgh’s Market Square these events are subject to change and/ or cancelation as a result of shifting factors from the pandemic, there are still a number of ways to remain active and engaged in Pittsburgh life during the winter months. For sledding enthusiasts, popular sites in the Pittsburgh area include Mingo Creek Park in Finleyville and Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert in 2019 Pittsburgh’s South Park. In Upper St. Clair, the areas surrounding Morton Field, as well as near the USC tennis courts located on McLaughlin Run Road are great for outdoor play.

Skiing is typically available, even with other restrictions in place, at resorts, including nearby Boyce Park, Seven Springs, and Hidden Valley. Finally, one can participate in and/or organize holiday competitions, virtually or otherwise, including seasonal baking challenges, costume contests, and holiday decorating competitions. With a myriad of events scheduled for the upcoming winter season, and plenty of possibilities outside of organized activities, as well, winter 2021–22 will undoubtedly be an engaging and exciting time in the city of Pittsburgh.

If you would rather opt for a quieter adventure, how about a serene walk in Boyce Mayview Park? Upper St. Clair and Pittsburgh have a lot to offer during the winter season; take advantage of one or many of them, and have some fun! n PPG Wintergarden 22

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC

10% off tuition pkgs thru Dec 31!

The Nutcracker!

Saturday, December 11 at 2pm & 7pm Sunday, December 12 at 12pm & 5pm

“It’s a Weekly Music Date with your Child” piano, singing, recorder, guitar, theory ear training & more!

Private Lessons Piano. Voice. Guitar.

Thomas Jefferson High School Theater 830 Old Clairton Rd. Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Tickets – at the door or in advance by visiting tututix.com!

A gift for every age . . . for every budget!

31 Donati Road, Bethel Park * 412-385-5162 martina.caruso@childrensmusicacademy.org

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh 4100 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-343-9333

www.balletacademypgh.com

info@balletacademypgh.com

House Party Safety Guide. Have Fun and Be Safe.

Must-dos before hosting your next gathering Birthdays, anniversaries, the last day of school, a sporting event, the end of a year—all reasons to host a party are as varied as the food, drink, and entertainment you might provide. But as fun as a party can be, you also have a responsibility to avoid house party dangers. Use this house party guide to stay safe and keep others safe, too.

Safe House Party Checklist • Mind the rules. Check your lease or homeowner’s association rules about hosting gatherings in your home and/ or out on the lawn. If you don’t own your home, you need to know the answer to “Can renters throw a party?” before you even consider inviting guests over.

• Check your coverage. Even a quiet gathering can sometimes lead to an accident, such as a guest injury or property damage. Contact your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance agent for details about liability insurance.

• Be a good neighbor, really. Inform your neighbors in advance about the event, and talk about any issues it could cause

with parking. Share your phone number so they can contact you first with any concerns. Try to confine the meetand-greet indoors or in the backyard, let guests know where they should park, and make sure any garbage left in your or your neighbors’ yards or public spaces, like rental unit hallways, is cleaned up right away. Monitor music and the crowd so you stay within the limits of noise pollution laws.

• Protect your pets. Strangers and loud noises in a usually quiet home may frighten pets. Reduce their anxiety by crating your pup or putting your cat behind a closed door, especially while guests are arriving and leaving.

• Stay food-safe. Take special care with your buffet. Wash your hands before prepping, keep raw meat away from other foods, cook foods to proper temperatures, and keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.

• Care for the kids. Unless it’s a familyfocused soiree, hire someone to keep an eye on any little ones.

Winter 2021

• House guard. Play it safe. Lock up prescription medications and any electronics or valuables. Also, safely stash guests’ belongings (coats, bags, etc.) during the party.

• Monitor the anticipated guests’ drive home. At least one hour before the party wraps up, stop serving alcohol and serve additional snacks. Organize rides or ride shares as necessary. n Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent. See ad on page 61.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

23

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES

24

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

W IN T ER FES T I V I T IES

DINE-IN NOW OPEN

2002-2021 2004-2021

Fulfilling Wishes and Feeding Those in Need

Holiday Humor for a Great Cause

Coldwell Banker Realty’s “12 Wishes for Christmas”

event held last winter raised $28,794. Each local office sponsored a specific wish for an individual child. Their stories were told online through a dedicated “12 Wishes” website and a social media campaign, where a different wish was featured each day.

In December 2020, Coldwell Banker donated $25,000 to Makea-Wish® via a virtual check presentation in support of the work done by all the offices.

The first ever “Brewing UP Wishes,” a virtual beer tasing event that partnered with Great Lakes Brewing, was held this past May and raised $9816. Ticket purchasers received different Great Lakes beers to sample and were treated to a virtual tour of the brewery, which included a discussion about the beers they received.

Over the past few months, Coldwell Banker and its agents have been holding monthly food drives for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Spreading the “give back” philosophy, they collected 2480 pounds of food and raised $6164, providing more than 30,819 meals to local residents.

As 2021 comes to a close, Coldwell Banker appreciates its supportive agents, clients, family, friends, and neighbors who helped in these efforts, and, as 2022 comes into focus, anticipates its continued support of Make-a-Wish and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. n See ad for Coldwell Banker Realty on back cover.

This holiday season, treat yourself and those on your gift list to humor from local resident Jay Lynch. The fun anthology benefits The Miracle League of the South Hills, where every child deserves the chance to play baseball.

Order The Lighter Side of Upper St. Clair on .

“Wonderful reflections on our community and some really funny baseball stories.” −Sean Casey, three-time Major League baseball All-Star, MLB Network TV broadcaster, and USC resident “Having enjoyed Jay’s stories for years, I can’t wait to revisit them in the book. Jay is USC’s humor historian and we’re lucky to have him.” −Steve Blass, Pittsburgh Pirates All-Star, World Series winner, broadcaster, and long-time USC resident Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

25

Township Commissioners

The Township’s Check it out at website was www.twpusc.org updated in 2021.

Mark D. Christie President Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

Township Administration

Daniel R. Paoly Vice President At-Large

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

Dante R. Plutko, Jr. Ward 1

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

George Kostelich, Jr. Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter Director of Library

Paul Besterman Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

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

Pamela L. Enck Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

Robert W. Orchowski Ward 3

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

Ronald J. Pardini Ward 5

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

Todd D. Burlingame At-Large

Day 412-831-9000 2021*

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

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

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

Follow the Township of Upper St. Clair on social media for the latest news and announcements.

2021–2022 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

*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.

26

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

• The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month.

The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month.

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

• The Parks and Recreation Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the C&RC; 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.

Meetings are held in the Municipal Building’s board room, unless otherwise indicated. Meeting locations are subject to change; refer to the Township website at www.twpusc.org for more information.

Winter 2021

Directory of Important Numbers Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings July 6, 2021

Approximately 8 people attended.

Recognition • Commissioner Orchowski presented a Certificate of Achievement to Dani Prunzik, USCHS student, for her first-place win at the WPIAL track & field championships in the 100-meter dash.

Dani Prunzik, joined by Commissioner Orchowski, her parents, Dan and Sandra Prunzik (right), and her coaches, Doug Petrick and Matt Cosgrove Approval of Contracts • Dom Folino Construction................................... $58,050 Upper St. Clair, PA Heartwood Drive Detention Pond • Dom Folino Construction................................... $22,575 Upper St. Clair, PA Dominion Drive Detention Pond

August 2, 2021

Approximately 2 people attended.

The Board • Authorized the bid rejections for the Janitorial and Cleaning Services for the Township Buildings and the Manhole to Manhole Lining Contract.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1706 Re. 2022–2026 Capital Improvement Program.

Approval of Contracts • Patton Building Services ................................... $950,130 Morgantown, WV Janitorial and Cleaning Services for Community & Recreation Center (3-year contract, plus 1 option year) • State Pipe Services............................................. $215,300 Cranberry Township, PA Spot Lining and Manhole Rehabilitation

September 7, 2021

Approximately 4 people attended.

Recognition • Commissioner Christie presented a Proclamation to John Scherer for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. His project involved building a 70-foot wooden bridge over a muddy section of the Wetlands Bluff trail in Boyce Mayview Park.

Left to right: Commissioner Mark Christie, John Scherer, and John’s parents, Katie and Joe Scherer The Board • Adopted Bill No. 4-21 Re. PLC15-0008–Acceptance of Public Improvements in the Bedner Estates PRD. • Adopted Resolution No. 1707 Re. Appointment of a Representative and Alternate to the Governing Board of the Chartiers Valley District Flood Control Authority.

Approval of Contracts • Patton Building Services .............................. $601,264.03 Morgantown, WV Janitorial and Cleaning Services for Township Buildings (3-year contract, plus 1 option year) • Standard Pipe Services, Inc. .............................. $151,200 Newark, DE Manhole to Manhole Lining Contract Phase 5 Next Generation Facility Improvements: • TBI Contracting ............................................. $4,342,500 McKeesport, PA Contract 1, General Construction Work • Shipley Plumbing.............................................. $932,000 Cranberry Township, PA Contract 2, Plumbing and Fire Protection Work • East West Manufacturing & Supply, Co......... $1,090,000 Pittsburgh, PA Contract 3, HVAC Work • Allegheny City Electric, Inc. ............................ $887,000 Pittsburgh, PA Contract 4, Electrical Work

McAlpine Joins USCPD This past August, Eric McAlpine was sworn in by Judge Ronald Arnoni as an Upper St. Clair police officer. Officer McAlpine graduated magna cum laude from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in criminology. Prior to joining USCPD, he worked as an officer for the Ford City PD, East Deer PD, and the Butler County sheriff’s office.

The department welcomes Officer McAlpine and wishes him a safe and successful career in Upper St. Clair. n

Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency

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

Monday – Friday

Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 2160 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 5010 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 2260 Recreation – 412-221-1099 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 2710 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710 Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) 412-835-0660 Library – 412-835-5540 Frequently Called Numbers

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

Officer McAlpine, being sworn in Winter 2021

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

27

USC Recreation and www.twpusc.org

Adult Sports Return to the C&RC Whether you’re looking to socialize, exercise, or both, the C&RC has great opportunities for you! Sports programs are open to all USC residents, C&RC members, and non-members. Visit the twpusc.org/recreationcenter for registration details.

Pickleball Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 1–4 p.m.

Pick-up Volleyball Mondays, 7–8:45 p.m.

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

Save the Dates: Community Blood Drive at the C&RC Tuesday, December 7 Noon–6 p.m.

To schedule an appointment, visit vitalant.org and choose Login (previous donor) or New Donor (new to donating). The C&RC group number code is C565.

MLK Day of Service Monday, January 17, 2022 Mark this special day by finding a way to serve others in need.

Check the Recreation Department website (twpusc.org/recreationcenter) for suggestions and potential service opportunities.

Gratitude 5K Saturday, November 20 10 a.m.

Join in and celebrate the season of giving and gratitude by participating in the second annual Gratitude 5K Race at Boyce Mayview Park. Race registration includes a T-shirt and pre-race training packet that includes nutritional tips and sample practice routes. The race is timed, and participants are given a bib number the day of the race. Runners of all levels are welcome to participate.

Visit the Recreation Department website (twpusc.org/recreationcenter) to register.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Jingle Jam* Saturday, December 11 Dance your way through the holiday season with this festive dance cardio class. Class is free with the donation of three non-perishable food items due upon registration. Advanced registration is required.

Coming Om for the Holidays* Sunday, December 12 Nothing brings on stress quite like the holiday season. Take a moment to add some relaxation to your wish list. This yoga-inspired class is free with the donation of three non-perishable food items due upon registration. Advanced registration is required.

Merry Mix* Fridays, December 24 and 31 Participants will get a variety of classes, all packed into one great workout. Classes are free with the donation of three non-perishable food items due upon registration. Advanced registration is required.

Winter Camp* December 27, 28, 29, 30 Your favorite counselors from Camp St. Clair will keep your kids active and engaged over winter break! Children will enjoy socializing, crafting, and playing games with their peers and recreation staff.

Stay Active This Holiday Season

28

Thanksgiving Spin-A-Thon* Friday, November 26 Burn off those extra Thanksgiving calories and contribute to a good cause. Class is free with the donation of three non-perishable food items due upon registration. Advanced registration is required.

* Additional details are available on the Township website (www.twpusc.org/recreationcenter) beginning late November or early December.

C&RC Winter Holiday Building Hours Thursday, November 25 (Thanksgiving): Closed Friday, December 24 (Christmas Eve): 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Saturday, December 25 (Christmas): Closed Friday, December 31 (New Year’s Eve): 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Saturday, January 1, 2022 (New Year’s Day): Closed The Recreation Department administration hours may vary from the building hours listed above.

Winter 2021

Leisure Services 412-221-1099

Morton Field Complex Survey Results Becky Brindle, Communications Specialist, Township of Upper St. Clair

As previously reported in the fall edition of TODAY, plans are under way to give Upper St. Clair’s Morton Field complex a makeover. Pashek + MTR, a Pittsburgh landscape architecture and community planning studio, is facilitating the planning process and developing a master plan for the community park. At the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting this past August, a Pashek + MTR representative revealed the results of a digital survey about the park. More than 1100 Township residents completed the survey. The top improvements that participants desire at the complex are: 1. Develop walking and biking trails that connect to parks and neighborhoods 2. Provide more shade 3. Develop additional passive recreation opportunities 4. Convert grass fields to synthetic turf The Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners’ master plan presentation is expected soon.

Morton play structure Keep up to date on the project by visiting mortonfieldcomplex.com.

Morton soccer and ball fields

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

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

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

USCSD Gold Card Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62 or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card, entitling them to free admission to plays and musicals, as well as regular season home athletic events and activities sponsored by the USC School District.

WPIAL and PIAA playoff games are not eligible for free or discounted admission.

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

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

Winter 2021

ACCESS and Port Authority Transportation for Senior Citizens Applications for the Senior Citizen Port Authority ConnectCard and ACCESS transportation are available at the C&RC. Application must be made in person at the C&RC during operating hours. Proof of age (65 and older) is required.

Additionally, proof of Allegheny County residency is required for ACCESS. The Port Authority will indefinitely continue to accept blue or yellow Pennsylvania Senior Transit ID cards.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

29

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

During the winter season, Township residents are asked to be patient and understanding. To help the Police and Public Works Department during storms, the Township asks the cooperation of residents in the following areas: 1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to a minimum. Public Works and Police phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls only during storm situations. The Township is as eager as you are to have the streets cleared quickly. Major roads, including Route 19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort Couch Road, and Mayview Road, are plowed first as a matter of public safety and for emergency vehicles.

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

3. When streets are plowed, snow will be pushed in front of driveways.

Unfortunately, there is no other place for the snow to go.

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

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

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

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

Sidewalks with unshoveled snow may 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

They are for your safety.

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

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

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

The department is currently contracted to perform snow and ice removal on Winter 2021

www.twpusc.org

all state-owned roadways within the Township, including Route 19, Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, and McMillan Road. It does not have maintenance responsibilities for Allegheny County-owned roadways, including Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, and Drake Road.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expanding Restaurant Options in USC Becky Brindle, USC Township Communications Specialist

Residents will soon have more dining options than ever before, all while staying within or near USC Township. Read on to find out what and where.

The former Kings Family Restaurant USC location will be the newest Waffles, INCaffeinated location.

First Watch is opening in Siena.

Atarashi is now open in Norman Centre.

Waffles, INCaffeinated The owners of Waffles, INCaffeinated hope to open their new Upper St. Clair location by early next year. The breakfast spot is slated to open along McMurray Road in the former Kings Family Restaurant building.

Waffles, INCaffeinated sells savory and sweet waffle dishes, along with omelets, French toast, and sandwiches. The Funky Monkey is a golden waffle exploding with chocolate chips, topped off with a mound of fresh bananas, a dollop of peanut butter chiffon, and fudge sauce. If the Funky Monkey sounds too sweet, consider the Breakfast Magic waffle, with bacon, cheese, and green onion on the inside, with more bacon and cheese on top and a fried egg. The restaurant will also offer gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free waffles, as well as vegan waffles.

Waffles, INCaffeinanted has four other locations in the South Side, Wexford, downtown Pittsburgh, and Beaver.

First Watch In spring 2022, First Watch is scheduled to open its first restaurant in the Pittsburgh area that offers alcohol. The new location will be in USC’s Siena at St. Clair shopping plaza off Route 19. The drink options planned include five signature cocktails with rum or vodka and two wine-based classic cocktails.

Atarashi The new Atarashi restaurant is open in the Norman Centre Shoppes, serving fast casual sushi.

A variety of rice bowls, bentos, and seaweed or soy-wrapped burritos are also on the menu. Two other Atarashi restaurants are located in Oakland and Robinson Township.

Piada is coming to Norman Centre 2.

Beer Mine will be coming to Scott Township in the vacant Bob’s Diner location.

“Where Custom Homes are a Family Tradition” Featuring:

Piada A new Piada Italian Street Food restaurant is scheduled to open in Norman Centre 2 by year’s end. The restaurant was “created with the belief that you don’t have to sacrifice quality and flavor for speed and value.” Menu items include, of course, piadas (Italian sandwich wraps), as well as chopped salads and pasta dishes. Piada has three other locations in Oakland, East Liberty, and the North Hills.

Beer Mine The owners of Beer Mine are in the early planning stages of opening a new beer store in Scott Township. They hope to open their operation along Painters Run Road in the former Bob’s Diner location. n Opening dates were best estimates at time of publication, but might lengthen due to staffing and possible material shortages.

e m o C ome To H

Winter 2021

Upper St. Clair

Only 2 Lots Left!

Patty Thomas, Broker Rebecca Lutz, Realtor

724-731-0100

WellingtonRealEstatePA.com

www.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

31

From the Director’s Desk

Christian Gmiter, Library Director It is my pleasure to announce that the Upper St. Clair Township Library has retained its Pennsylvania Forward Gold Star Status for the year 2022.

The library has been a PA Forward Gold Star Library since 2017. This PA Forward system was organized by the Pennsylvania Library Association, and the initiative seeks to encourage state libraries to complete benchmarks for programming that is offered to patrons. Other standards for Gold Star Libraries include creating displays highlighting certain areas of the library collection and maintaining signage that identifies with core competencies, as touched on below. Libraries are ranked using Gold, Silver, and Bronze status, which is determined according to their success at completing such measures.

To achieve Gold Star status, a library must complete a series of steps in the following categories: basic literacy, civic and social literacy, financial literacy, health literacy, and information literacy.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on library programming—transforming from in-person programs to online platforms (like Zoom) since mid-2020—the library satisfied all of the above criteria in order to maintain its highly regarded status for the coming year. Basic literacy often begins with the library’s youngest patrons, and the scale continues through the ranges of financial, social, health, and information literacy as ages range.

This is a testament to the library’s workers who conduct programming for kids, teens, and adults, as well as the frontline staff who are responsible for educating patrons on the literacies that obtaining a PA Forward Gold Star entails. It is the library staff’s intention to keep up the streak of PA Forward Gold Star status in 2023 and beyond through programming and in-library offerings.

Thank you for reading, and I hope that you have a wonderful winter season!

USC Township Library Hours (as of fall 2021) Outside book and video return available 24/7.

Monday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Tuesday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Wednesday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Library 2021–2022 Holiday Closures Thanksgiving: Closes at 5 p.m., Wednesday, November 24 Closed Thursday, Friday; November 25, 26 Christmas: Closed Thursday, Friday, Saturday; December 23, 24, 25 New Year’s: Closed Friday, Saturday; December 31, 2021, January 1, 2022

Due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, continue to check the library’s website for hours of operation.

412-835-5540

32

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

www.twpusc.org

Winter 2021

Statistics: Have you ever wondered what genres or media are the most popular at the Upper St. Clair Township Library? What gets checked out most? If so, you may find the following statistics, compiled by Maureen Case, head of Technical Services, interesting.

• The most popular adult genre is the Thriller genre, accounting for 8% of all fiction checkouts and making up 7% of the overall Fiction collection. The genre with the least percentage of circulation is Supernatural Fiction, which comprises 0.7% of fiction checkouts.

• For adult nonfiction, the most popular browsing neighborhood is Harmony, with just under 3% of all checkouts. DIY/ Home and Cooking are not far behind.

The least circulated adult nonfiction areas are Collecting and Celebrations.

• For the Children’s Collection, the most popular section is Picture Books, which makes up 32% of all circulations. Next up, Juvenile Fiction accounts for 19% of circulation. The least checked-out section is the Folklore and Fairy Tale section at 1.5%. n

Kids Programs Kids Virtual Library

Explore ways to use the library from your home computer, tablet, or smart phone. All of these sites can be accessed through the Kids eLibrary tab on the kids page of the library’s website at www.twpusc.org/library/kids.

True Flix for Kids

ACLA Overdrive for Kids

If your child is interested in people, places, history, science, or nature, this is a great resource! You’ll find books and videos on each of the 50 states, the seven continents, national parks, the animal kingdom, the solar system, and many more subjects. This site is recommended for kids in third grade and up.

This page will take you directly to kids books and audio books. For directions on how to download books, click the Help tab and then the Getting Started tab. You can download Overdrive on a tablet or smart phone using Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Apps.

Hoopla for Kids

Bookflix Bookflix pairs picture books and non-fiction books for young children. The picture books are animated versions of picture book classics. The non-fiction are easy readers, and kids can read them by themselves or use the read-a-long feature.

Each pair of books includes puzzles to solve based on the books. This site is recommended for preschoolers and kids in first and second grades.

Books to Celebrate the Holidays

Hoopla offers ebooks, audio books, movies, TV, and music for kids and adults. You’ll find hoopla by using the Resources A–Z tab. Use the Kids tab at the top of the page to search for kids’ items only. You can download hoopla on a tablet using Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Apps.

(Visit page 35 for fun puzzles and activities for kids.)

So many special holidays happen at the end of the year. Here are some fun picture books to read in November and December.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

33

Adult Programs Register for adult programs online at twpusc.org or call 412-835-5540.

The Pie Place Presents “How to Make a Lattice Top Apple Pie” Wednesday, November 3, 6–7 p.m.

Join USC resident and Pie Place owner Jess Gombar as she leads a class in how to make a nine-inch lattice top apple pie that you’ll be able to take home and bake.

The class will teach the art of assembling a twisted top lattice pie. Class size is limited to 15 people.

mRNA and the Future of Vaccine Development Presenters: Dr. Paul Duprex and Dr. Seema S. Lakdawala Friday November 5, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join Pitt’s Head of Vaccine Development Dr. Paul Duprex and Dr. Seema S. Lakdawala for a fascinating presentation on the development of mRNA to combat infectious diseases. You’ll find out how this new delivery system teaches our cells to make a protein and build our body’s natural defenses.

The French and Indian War Thursday, November 18, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join in to welcome reenactor and historian Robert Nipar as he speaks about the engineer’s role as a staff officer and his duties. There will be a display of items and equipment that the engineer would have used and needed. Handouts will be available to French and Indian War sites that are open to the public and within an easy day’s travel.

34

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Sporting Events That Changed America Wednesday December 1, 5:30–7 p.m.

This enlightening and enjoyable program will entertain and illuminate sports fans or anyone interested in American history.

Hosted by Martin Gitlin, it is based on his highly acclaimed book titled Powerful Moments in Sports: The Most Significant Sporting Events in American History.

The program features exciting videos of sporting events through more than a century that greatly impacted society and the sports themselves. Included are Jesse Owens winning four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, the 1958 NFL championship game that launched pro football into prominence, how ping pong forever changed American-Chinese relations, the famed Battle of the Sexes between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, the Magic Johnson–Larry Bird rivalry that brought the NBA back to life, and much more. This presentation features trivia questions for patrons to ponder, as well.

A fun and thought-provoking program, a Q&A session follows.

Seasonal Affective Disorder.

What is it, Really?

Wednesday December 8, 6–7 p.m. (via Zoom) Is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) more than just the winter blues? How is it treated, and what can we do to brighten the gray days of winter? The pandemic made SAD even more of a challenge this past year, but more opportunities to be physically active and see people will emerge this winter. A good thing, because those are two great ways to boost mood. The discussion will include light—what kind is healthy, and how much and when. It’s more complicated than you think.

Dr. Kathryn Roecklein is associate professor of clinical psychology and biological and health psychology in the Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh. She has published extensively on SAD, and directs the Seasonality Studies Research Program at Pitt. An NIH funded researcher, Winter 2021

Dr. Roecklein has been featured on NBC, BBC, The New York Times, The Washington Post, WESA, The Today Show, USA Today, Slate, and Reader’s Digest.

Discover the Nutcracker Wednesday, December 15, 6–7 p.m.

Almost everyone has heard of the most familiar holiday staple, The Nutcracker, but how much do you really know about it? Join Lisa Auel from the Pittsburgh Ballet for a discussion about the Theatre’s production of the beloved ballet to learn about the origins and history, the controversies, the beauty, and the mystery of the world’s most-performed ballet.

What? Everything You’ve Wanted to Know About Hearing Loss From an Audiologist Thursday, January 6, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

One in three adults over the age of 65 has some degree of hearing impairment.

Come join Katie, a local audiologist for an interactive presentation about hearing loss and what to do about it. Katie McNeilly, AuD CCC-A, is a clinical audiologist at Crossroads Speech and Hearing, Inc. in Upper St. Clair.

Coral Conservation Wednesday, January 12, 6–7 p.m.

Pittsburgh Zoo conservation photographer Paul Selvaggio will share his coral conservation underwater photography and video in this multi-media presentation. For the past decade, Paul has traveled the world, documenting coral conservation research with his cameras. His work has helped to support efforts with international researchers, scientists, and aquarium professionals to tell their story with his photography as the witness.

This presentation will visually share the diversity of the world’s tropical reefs, show rarely seen before mass spawning events, and give a perspective to the methods of coral ecology and techniques for naturally restoring coral reefs.

funny snippets from those shows and others, challenge patrons with sitcom trivia (including identifying cool theme songs), discuss the criteria he used to rank 70 years of sitcoms, and talk about how they’ve evolved over the decades in humor, presentation, and content. A really entertaining program, a Q&A session follows.

David Lean, Formula of a Masterpiece Wednesday, January 19, 4–5:45 p.m.

Come explore the innovative and visionary work of legendary director David Lean, who brought us great epic films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Bridge on the River Kwai, and A Passage to India. Learn about his transition from critically-acclaimed black and white films to the majestic sweeping epics that would become his trademark. In this multimedia presentation, not only will you get to experience the art and beauty that inspired many current directors, but you will also learn about the perfect collaboration of artists that made up the David Lean formula of a masterpiece.

Discover Montgomery Clift Fridays, March 11 and 18, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

D i s c o v e r Golden Age of Hollywood actor Montgomery Clift, who was the first to portray on film a more sensitive, vulnerable, and rebellious leading man. Clift paved the way for such actors as Marlon Brando and James Dean, yet remains virtually unknown today.

This two-part series will look at his acting beginnings, his acting style, and provide information and clips of his 17 movies.

A Funny Program About Funny Programs—The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time Wednesday, January 26, 5:30–7 p.m.

Award-winning author and pop culture historian Martin Gitlin hosts this fun and enlightening presentation based on his book, The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time. He is the only author to rank the best of the best, including I Love Lucy, All in the Family, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Cheers, Seinfeld, Frasier, and Modern Family. He will show

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

35

NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAMS A couple of years ago, there were many flood victims throughout Allegheny County. Many of these victims sought help, but most homeowners, business owners, and renters did not have flood insurance.

Private coverage can be unreliable and expensive. A great option for flood victims seeking help is the National Flood Insurance Programs (NFIP).

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Clothing washers and dryers • Certain valuable items, including original artwork and furs (up to $2500) • Food freezers (other than walk-ins), including the food in them Not Covered for Building or Personal Property: • Damage caused by moisture, mildew, or mold that could have been avoided by the property owner or which is not attributable to the flood • Damage caused by earth movement, even if the earth movement is caused by the flood • Additional living expenses, including temporary housing, while the building is being repaired or is unable to be occupied • Loss of use or access of the insured property • Financial losses caused by business interruption • Property and belongings outside of an insured building, including trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences, seawalls, hot tubs, and swimming pools • Currency, precious metals, and valuable papers, such as stock certificates • Most self-propelled vehicles, including cars and their parts 36

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

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

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

A Chain of Giving Sometimes a small idea turns into something much, much bigger. That’s what John Biedrzycki learned earlier this year. While he lives and works in Upper St. Clair, as a lawyer, he frequently travels downtown for business. And during his travels last winter, John noticed how well maintained USC Township’s roads were during snow events when compared to neighboring communities.

“Our public works department is up all night clearing the roads; it’s something that I just take for granted,” said John. “I decided to drop off donuts for them at the public works building as a thank you. Then, as a spur of the moment thing, I posted on Facebook that it might be nice if we got them donuts every week.”

That’s when John noticed his idea took on a life of its own.

People donated generously. And before long, he had collected approximately $4000. Realizing that this was far too much money for donuts, John reached out to public works director George Kostelich about the best way to use the money to thank the department.

The decision was made to have a lunch for the department, held at the public works building this past July and catered by Two Brothers Bar-B-Q. Public works requested that the excess funds be donated to the Miracle League of the South Hills in Upper St. Clair.

“We wanted to thank public works and let them know that what they do matters to people,” said John, “and they kindly thought of others and donated to a local charity.”

While appreciating what community members did, George

said the collection was totally unexpected and a bit overwhelming.

“We do what we’re supposed to do,” he said. George also commented that a lot of people make it possible for the public works department to do their job well, from residents paying taxes, to the Township administration setting a budget and providing the proper equipment and materials, to having the freedom to make the proper calls regarding road maintenance in inclement weather.

George said that the department was grateful from the bottom of their hearts to be able to donate to the Miracle League, but he added that gifts to public works aren’t necessary. “If you want to thank us, send us a card or a letter. We appreciate a kind word,” said George. “And, if you really want to thank us, please stay off the roads during snowstorms so our crews can do their jobs safely.” n

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

37

TOWNSHIP REMINDERS 2021–2022 Trash-Recycling Holiday Collection Holiday Collection Date Thanksgiving.....Friday, November 26, for regular Thursday collection.

Christmas...........Wednesday, December 22, for regular Wednesday

collection and Thursday, December 23, for regular

Thursday collection. (No change to scheduled collection.)

New Year............Wednesday, December 29, for regular Wednesday

collection and Thursday, December 30, for regular

Thursday collection. (No change to scheduled collection.)

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

2021 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 2021: November 20, December 4.

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

by January 1 of each year.

The Allegheny County application is available at:

December 26, 2021–January 31, 2022 Discarded live trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use. Please remove all lights, decorations, and plastic tree bags!

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

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

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

Deer Management Update Upper St. Clair Township continues its partnership with Whitetail Management Associates and contracts with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an all-time high number of reported deer-vehicle collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts, and last year the total number of accidents involving deer was 49.

The deer population in some areas of the Township 38

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in portions of the Township, there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer-vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level.

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

Winter 2021

Tri-Community South EMS Needs You! Tri-Community South EMS (TCS), the municipally-owned and operated ambulance service for Bethel Park, South Park, and Upper St. Clair, is holding its annual subscription drive.

Though TCS is owned and operated by the municipalities it serves, no municipal tax revenue is used for EMS operations. TCS attempts to recover operating costs by billing for services and accepting insurance reimbursements, and by the annual subscription drive. Most insurance companies do not reimburse the system for the full cost of the call. This difference means that TCS must seek other sources of income in order to continue to provide the level of service that the community demands.

Your $60 individual or $70 household annual subscription helps to make sure that TCS will continue to provide quality ambulance service whenever you need it. Your subscription to TCS means that should you, family members living at your home, or guests at your home need medically-necessary ambulance transportation, TCS will accept reimbursement from your healthcare or other appropriate insurance carrier, and you will be responsible for only 50% of any co-pay and deductible amounts. Nonsubscribers are responsible for the full amount billed for the service.

The subscription covers medically-necessary services only. It does not cover care or transportation that does not meet established medical necessity guidelines or is outside the limits of insurance coverage. Subscribers receive a 50% discount off these non-covered services. The subscription also does not cover assistance with activities of daily living and does not cover lift assists. These services put an undue strain on the ability of the system to handle medical emergencies, and are not covered at all by the subscription.

Your subscription to TCS benefits you directly by saving you potentially hundreds of dollars when you need emergency medical service, and, more importantly, by helping to make sure that high-quality EMS care is there when you need it. This is not an idle platitude. The crisis in the sustainability of EMS has been recognized by the Pennsylvania legislature, and the very real possibility exists that if nothing changes, EMS will no longer be there to provide care. You can make a difference in your community by supporting TCS. n

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

A Pittsburgh Home Comfort Specialist You Can Trust Clog Removal Inspection Repair

Hot Water Tanks Drains Faucets

AC Units Furnace Boilers

We are Educators, NOT Salesmen.

Financing Available!

At Mister Sewer, Plumbing and HVAC, we’re proud to be a prompt, courteous, and professional company providing sewer and drain line cleaning, video inspection, and repairs as well as general plumbing and HVAC installation and repairs to the Pittsburgh, PA area. Our mission is to educate customers and provide honest recommendations for solving their problems quickly and affordably.

A+ rating with the BBB

Read our Google Reviews!

Follow us on Facebook!

412-835-2135 103 Freedom Drive Lawrence, PA 15055 Contractor License #069727 HP#3663

We’re Hiring!

Winter 2021

Visit our website for details: www.mistersewer.com UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

39

TCS EMS Director Retires After More Than 40 Years

Becky Brindle, USC Township Communications Specialist and supervisor of support services. In October 2000, Nora was named director.

Nora inherited a system that faced declining income. Nonetheless, after 21 years of her leadership, TCS remains financially stable, requiring no funding from the municipal tax base of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, or South Park. “I really respect that she was frugal. We [TCS] have no debt,” said Alan. “And her number one concern was always to make sure her employees were paid.”

Nora, with her grandson, Lucas Nora worked hard to create a more After more than 40 years with professional and comfortable headquarters Tri-Community South EMS (TCS), direc- for her employees. TCS built its current tor Nora Helfrich has retired. “It’s been building at 5490 Progress Boulevard in the almost 42 years. It’s time to let someone Bethel Park Industrial Park. The project else take the lead,” said Nora. Her employ- was completed in September 2005, ahead ees say she will be sorely missed. of schedule and under budget. “She took us “She absolutely deserves it [retire- from a little metal shack to a multi-million ment], but I’m sad to see her go,” said dollar building, and she didn’t use any muTim Hall, who worked with Nora for 20 nicipality money,” said Will Thomas, who years. “It’s the little things. She always gave worked with Nora for 15 years. employees a small gift during EMS Week.

In April 2006, TCS became the first On holidays, she understood how it can be EMS system in Allegheny County, sectough to be away from family, and so she ond in Pennsylvania, and 100th in North America to be granted accreditation by would make food and bring it in.”

“She was always there. She was there for the Commission on the Accreditation of us on our weddings. She would be there Ambulance Services (CAAS). This acfor us for the birth of our children. She had creditation was renewed in 2009, 2012, pictures of all our kids on her wall. Now 2015, 2018, and, most recently, 2021. (See she has some pictures of our grandkids up CAAS-related article on page 41.) there, too,” said Alan Jackson, who worked In August 2007, TCS was named with Nora for 18 years. “She was there for Ambulance Service of the Year by the us after good calls. And bad calls. She’d Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services be the first to give you a poke in the chest Council (PEHSC). A little over a year if you did something wrong. And the first later, Nora received an award from the one to give you a hug if you had a bad call.” Emergency Medical Service Institute at “She’s passionate about what she does its annual dinner in November 2008. and she cares about the employees,” said Nora was recognized for her outstanding Larry Pantuso, who has worked and contributions to EMS in southwestern known Nora for about 33 years. “She came Pennsylvania.

Along with the numerous awards and up through the ranks and has endured accreditations, Nora is proud of TCS’s inmany changes.”

During her time with TCS, Nora held every volvement in community healthcare and position. She served as a volunteer, part-time education. “A few years ago, we received a employee, full-time employee, supervisor, phone call from Australia. The man on the

other end of the phone heard about TCS and wanted to send his paramedic students here to compare education,” Nora said.

TCS has trained students from Australia, South Korea, Norway, Qatar, Ireland, Germany, Canada, Nigeria, Argentina, China, Iceland, and Finland.

TCS provides a variety of CPR classes for the community, and, most recently, added EMT classes to its training opportunities. “It took me two years to get the EMT program done, and in September 2021 we got the green light,” said Nora. “I’m very proud of this, and proud to assist in the deficit of people going into the EMS field.”

Nora is grateful for the relationships she’s made with staff members from area fire departments, police departments, hospitals, and local government. She says former Upper St. Clair Township manager Doug Watkins had a strong EMS background and was her mentor. Over the years, she’s also worked closely with Mark Mansfield, assistant USC Township manager. “Nora is one of a kind, and I feel blessed to have served with her for more than 30 years,” said Mark.

“She will be missed. She made it known that this [TCS] was a family-first organization,” said Shawn McDermott, who has worked for Nora for 20 years. “Firm, but fair as a boss, she was really a great person to work for.”

“Nora is one of the greatest people I’ve known,” reiterated Will. “She’s a mentor to me. Tri-Community South won’t be the same without her.”

This past October, Nora received the Dr. George Moerkirk Memorial Contribution to EMS Award. The award, given annually by the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council (PEHSC), acknowledges an individual who “provides a significant contribution to Pennsylvania’s EMS system.”

Congratulation Nora, and best wishes on your retirement! 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 Township. Training and access to production equipment can be provided to those interested in producing a program. There is also equipment and a channel available for live streaming events.

Programs are cablecast on Comcast channel 7 and Verizon channel 42, as well as by searching YouTube.

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

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

40

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

TCS EMS Reaccredited by CAAS Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) has been awarded a three-year reaccreditation from the Commission for the Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) for its compliance with national standards of excellence. The CAAS board of directors voted unanimously to award the accreditation at their June 2021 meeting. Earlier that month, CAAS evaluators inspected the system’s records, vehicles, and facilities, as well as interviewed personnel. Their inspection showed full compliance with all CAAS accreditation standards.

This year’s reaccreditation process was different from those of the past. Because of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the site inspection and staff interviews were conducted remotely by digital connection. The inspection was no less rigorous.

TCS is one of five services in Pennsylvania and one of very few municipally-owned services in the nation to achieve this accreditation. The accreditation process is open to all types of ambulance services, including private, fire-based, public authority, municipal third service, regulated public utility, and inter-facility transport, among others. At present, only 178 ambulance services in the United States, Canada, and the West Indies have CAAS accreditation.

To achieve reaccreditation, TCS demonstrated that its policies, procedures, and documentation continue to meet the accreditation standard, and that continual quality improvement processes and accurate data about system performance have helped the system better meet the needs of the community. The accreditation granted to TCS is for three years, the longest period for which

CAAS grants accreditation. It shows that TCS met or exceeded the most stringent standards in all operational and administrative areas, in personnel, equipment, policies and procedures, documentation, and community responsibility.

TCS has continuously maintained accreditation since April 2006.

CAAS is an independent, non-profit organization made up of EMS and healthcare experts established to encourage and promote quality patient care in America’s medical transportation system.

The primary focus of the commission’s 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.

The commission’s standards often exceed state or local licensing requirements.

Several states now recognize CAAS accreditation as evidence of qualification for state licensure. Pennsylvania does not do this.

So, in February, TCS also completed its triennial state licensure inspection. This inspection is conducted by the regional EMS council to ensure that the service complies with all state laws and regulations, and that personnel and the equipment meet all state standards. n For more information on the CAAS, state licensure, or for any other questions about emergency medical services, call Tri-Community South EMS at 412-831-3710, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., or visit https://tcsems.org.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

41

42

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Seeks New Members It’s entirely possible that you’ve never heard of the Youth Steering Committee of Upper St. Clair (YSC). But, it’s an organization that’s been around for decades, providing programming and education to the community on issues that face our youth. After a tragic car accident involving students at the high school that resulted in a fatality in the 1980s, a community action group formed with the mission of “providing positive direction and support to our youth, as well as families.” Although created decades ago, this continues to be the mission due to its continued relevance.

The YSC members are jointly appointed by the Township of Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners and the Board of School Directors. YSC members include adult residents, high school students, parents, and representatives from both appointing boards.

Over the years, the committee has tackled some incredibly relevant topics, hosted national speakers who address how parents can form better relationships with their children, and partnered with local leaders, hosting panels on topics that are of interest to residents in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. The YSC solicits feedback from the community for programming.

The YSC meets on the second Wednesday of every month— September to June—typically at the Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park, although recently, meetings have been held virtually. Meetings are either held as (1) general sessions, where planning and discussion occur, or (2) as programming presentations, where content is shared and facilitated.

The YSC is actively recruiting new members. To learn more about the YSC or to inquire on how to apply, sit in on a meeting, since all meetings are open to the public. n For more information, visit the YSC’s website at www. youthsteeringcommitteeusc.org.

SCBA Washer Helps Keep Firefighters Safer Michael Moore, Fire Chief, USC VFD

Cancer is a concern of anyone involved in fire service, and it remains one of the leading causes of death among firefighters. Between the years 2002 and 2017, 61% of career firefighter line of duty deaths were caused by cancer.

Firefighters regularly encounter cancerSolo Rescue SCBA Washer causing agents. When materials burn, they with an SCBA cylinder can release carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). Firefighters may also encounter other known carcinogens, including asbestos and diesel exhaust, while fighting fires.

Studies have recently found that the foam used to combat some fires contains cancercausing agents. With all these risk factors, the USC VFD looked for a better way to clean its members’ gear and equipment to lessen the possibility of getting cancer.

After extensive research, a committee from the USC VFD learned that a Solo The new washer does a better job cleaning helmets Rescue SCBA (self-contained breathing apand gloves than by hand. paratus) Washer could address some of the safety concerns. This washer is very popular in the European fire service for cleaning its members’ SCBA. Learning more about the unit, we found that it could also be used to wash helmets, face pieces, gloves, and hose nozzles. Trying to wash an SCBA unit or a helmet by hand is very challenging, because both pieces have many hard-to-reach places and are irregularly shaped. The washer can do a better, more through job than members can do by hand.

By contacting the manufacturer, we found a local distributer.

After receiving a quote for the equipment, we realized how expensive this groundbreaking washer was going to be. After some research, the department applied for and received a grant to help fund the purchase. Due to COVID complications, there was a longer-than-normal wait time for the equipment to ship.

We used this time to prepare the area where the unit would be housed. Site prep included pouring concrete, running electricity for a plug, and lots of plumbing needs.

When the unit arrived, we were excited to see how it worked. The machine has internal 12 jets that shoot 104° water at all angles at whatever object you put in it. It also has an automatic soap pump that monitors the concentration of soap to water and adds more soap as needed. The water inside the machine is recycled until it is determined by the user that it is too dirty to reuse. This is done by the user looking inside the unit after each cycle and checking to see if the water is clear enough to see the heating element through the water.

There are two cycles to choose from when using the machine.

The first is a 12-minute cycle for SCBA units and facepieces. The next option is a five-minute cycle for helmets and gloves. Once either cycle is completed, the item needs to be dried, which is done in the department’s gear drying unit.

After a training class, it was time to see what this unit could do. We placed four helmets (that had previously been washed by hand with soap and a brush) inside the machine. When the helmets completed their cleaning cycle, we checked the water, and found that it was very dirty, especially for something we thought was already clean! As we continued to clean all the helmets, we found that just because something looked clean didn’t necessarily mean it was clean. The water had to be changed multiple times as we cleaned all 35 helmets. Then, we moved on to cleaning all the SCBA units and spare SCBA cylinders. This task took much longer, as we could only clean six units at a time so that none of our apparatus was without a full set of SCBA units in case of an emergency call. The SCBA units and spare cylinders were definitely cleaner going in than the helmets, but still much dirtier than they looked.

With the addition of this piece of equipment, we can confidently say we are doing the best we can to make sure that our equipment is clean and our members are safer.

Carcinogens will always remain a danger to firefighters, but with continued improvements, including this equipment washer, members at the USC VFD are working towards lowering the number of firefighters who die from a form of fire-related cancer. n Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

43

LOCAL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY 1830 Log House Association Kimberly Guzzi, President ..................................... 412-851-0570 American Assoc. of University Women ................www.aauw.org Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club Tom Atkins ............................................................. 412-901-0987 Boyce Road Gardeners Phyllis Kender, Registrar ....................................... 412-221-3118 Brookside Woman’s Club Bonnie McKeown ................................................. 412-835-6692 Civil Air Patrol Glenn Ward .......................................................... 412-221-0846 Community Foundation of USC Gordon Mathews ................................................... 412-360-8223 Different Strokes Tennis League Gina Braun ............................................................ 412-221-5717 Friends of the Library.............................................. 412-835-5540 Friends of the Montour Trail in Bethel Park Peter Kohnke, President ...................................... 724-518-9251 Girl Scouts of USC Michelle Wardle-Eggers ........................................ 412-595-7550 uscgirlscoutcommunity@gmail.com Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Rachel Carlson ..................................................... 412-835-2050 www.hsusc.org www.facebook.com/hsusc president@hsusc.org League of Women Voters ...................................... 412-261-4284 Lifespan Kim Rollinson .............................................. 412-464-1300, x127 Odyssey of the Mind (www.uscootm.com) Laura Murtough ..................................................... 412-478-1736 uscootm@gmail.com Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics “PEAQ” Ken Fibbi, President .............................................. 724-350-7956 kfibbi@verizon.net South Hills Chamber of Commerce www.shchamber.org .............................................. 412-306-8090 South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) .............. 412-854-9120 South Hills Jewish Pittsburgh ............................... 412-278-1975 Southhillsjewishpittsburgh.org South Hills Junior Orchestra Janet Vukotich ....................................................... 412-341-5160 South Hills Kennel Club Ray Harrington ...................................................... 412-999-0195 Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce Mandi Pryor, Executive Director ............................ 412-221-4100 www.southwestcommunitieschamber.org mandi@southwestcommunitieschamber.org Spencer Family YMCA Jim Lybarger, Executive Director .......................... 412-833-5600

Town Hall South Janette Clements, Chair ....................................... 412-310-3763 www.townhallsouth.org Trotwood Manor West Association trotwoodmanorwest@gmail.com United Senior Citizens of USC Lynn Walcoff................................................. 412-221-1099, x655 USC Athletic Association (www.uscaasports.org) Dave McClintock, President, USCAA ............................ feedback@uscaasports.org Rec Baseball (Spring)................ Mike McKenzie... 412-736-8664

Rich West........... 412-720-0571 Travel Baseball (Summer).......... Bret Stutzman..... 412-480-9235 Boys Basketball (Winter)............ Jay Sukernek...... 412-334-0975 Girls Basketball (Winter)............. Paul Mannix........ 412-913-6026 Football (Fall)............................. Rob Stevenson... 412-303-6178 Softball (Spring).......................... Ryan Pope.......... 412-915-2070 Rec Soccer (Fall)........................ Bill Friday............ 412-398-0104 Travel Soccer (Fall/Spring)......... Rob York............. 412-523-8688 Wrestling (Winter)....................... Ryan Middleton... 412-841-8851 USC Band Parents (www.uscbpa.org)...............................uscbpaofficers@gmail.com USC-Bethel Park Breakfast Rotary Club Brian Schill ........................................................... 412-833-6229 USC Boy Scouts of America Renz Weinmann (Troop 366) ................................. 412-831-8272 Tom O’Brien (Troop 4 )............................................ 412-854-3153 USC Citizens for Land Stewardship (www.usccls.org) Jen Dalke .............................................................. 412-760-0801 USC Democratic Committee Mary McIntyre, Chair.............................. uscdems01@gmail.com Jasson Fincke, Vice Chair USC High School Parent/Teacher/Student Organization (PTSO) Maria Cedar .......................................maria.cedar10@gmail.com USC Hockey Club ................................ president@uschockey.org USC League for the Arts (USCLA) Vi Laux ................................................................... 412-523-1855 USC Library ............................................................ 412-835-5540 USC Newcomer’s Club (www.uscnewcomers.org) ........ uscnewcomersexec@gmail.com USC Parent Teacher Council (PTC) Gina Swanson, President ........... USCPTCpresident@gmail.com USC Republican Committee Louis Oliverio, Chair .............................. oliverio-louis@msn.com USC Volunteer Firefighters Dan Barr, President ......................................412-835-0660, x100 president@uscvfd.org Woman’s Club of Upper St. Clair Linda Altopiedi, Secretary ...................................... 412-260-5610

Call the UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY office at 412-833-1600, extension 2284, if your club or organization’s information needs to be updated, or added to or deleted from our list. Thank you.

For an online version of this directory, visit www.twpusc.org/usctoday and click on USC TODAY Features from the home page.

44

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

PINEBRIDGE COMMONS Pinebridge Commons

“Quality Dentistry with a Gentle Touch & the Personalized Service that YOU Deserve!”

••••••••••••••••• Cardinal Endocrinology

Pediatric Dentistry South

Design Image Salon

Pediatric Therapy Source

Emerick Financial Planning

Questa Petroleum Co.

Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc.

Gloria Sayut, MS LPC, NCC

Estetyka

Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins.

Peter Gialames & Associates Interior Designs/Furnishings

by Mary Kay Chaffee

Suburban Dry Cleaners Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent. Troy Orthodontics Beth Troy, DMD

Timothy Kerr, DMD & Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

Whole Plants Health, LLC

Larry E. Manalo, DMD

Wininsky Law Offices

Melissa D. Michel, LPC

Xcoal Energy Resources

Pediatric Alliance

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Welcome

Pediatric Therapy Source

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road www.pinebridgecommons.com Leasing Opportunity – Avison Young (412) 944-2138

General Dentist and Prosthodontic Specialist

NEWLY RENOVATED • STATE-OF-THE-ART Pinebridge Dental • Upper St. Clair

88 Dental • Castle Shannon

www.manalosmiles.com

manalosmiles@aol.com

412-221-2221

FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

412-343-4100

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.

Let us make you smile!

Schedule your complimentary consultation today!

• Orthodontic services for children and adults • Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment T imothy J. K err , D.M.D. R omana P autler K err , D.M.D.

KK 412-257-4250

Pinebridge Commons Suite 207

kerrdmd.com

Chairside Whitening System

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 2021

• Convenient appointment hours • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted

www.drtroysmiles.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

45

Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

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

Phillip J. Elias Vice President 412-257-1198 2023*

Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2023*

Barbara L. Bolas 412-833-9841 2023*

www.uscsd.k12.pa.us

@USCSchools

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

Administrator

Secretary/Email Address

Extension

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

School District Central Office Administration

Jennifer L. Bowen 412-660-5846 2021*

Dr. Daphna Gans 412-851-1825 2021* Dr. John Rozzo Superintendent of Schools

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

Angela B. Petersen 412-831-7182 2023* The 2021–2022 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.

Jennifer A. Schnore 412-833-4141 2021* *Date indicates expiration of term.

Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Amy Pfender Assistant Superintendent

Scott Burchill Director of Business and Finance

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

Dr. Lou Angelo Director of Operations & Facilities

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

Cassandra Doggrell Director of Special Education

Dr. Lauren Madia Director of Pupil Services

Bradley Wilson Director of Strategic Initiatives

School District Building Administration

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. www.uscsd.k12.pa.us 46

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant/Deputy Superintendent

Dr. Timothy Wagner High School Principal Dr. Daniel Beck High School Assistant Principal Cara Senger High School Assistant Principal

Winter 2021

Joseph DeMar Fort Couch Middle School Principal Erin Peterson Fort Couch Assistant Principal Dr. Daniel O’Rourke Boyce Middle School Principal Dr. Christine Mussomeli Boyce Assistant Principal

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller Eisenhower Elementary School Principal/Supervisor of Elementary Education Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer Streams Elementary School Principal

Back to Class!

The sun was shining and excitement was in the air as the District’s students began the new school year this past August.

We hope these photos taken at all six USC school buildings bring fond memories of your student’s first day of school!

—Photos courtesy of Terry Kish, Brooke Tarcson, and Tina Vojtko

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

47

Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame 2020–2021 Welcomes Nine

Nine alumni made up the class that was inducted into the 2020–21 Upper St. Clair High School’s Halls of Fame. The inductees were honored at the annual induction ceremony on October 22. After celebrating during an informal dinner at the high school, the inductees were recognized at the football game, where USC battled South Fayette, a game that the Panthers won in overtime, 31–28.

The 2020–21 Halls of Fame inductees (year of graduation in parentheses) include:

Academics Ben Burns (2006) Academics Roy Phitayakorn (1994) Karl Zelik (2002) Arts Tom Griffith (1975) David Moskowitz (1987) Brian O’Hare (1984) Arts Athletics Emily Mueller Ciobota (2009) Dane Conwell (2007) Ryan Dudzinski (2015) Founded in 2000, the Athletics Upper St. Clair Halls of Fame honors those who have distinguished themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate, or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. n

48

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Ben Burns

Roy Phitayakorn

Karl Zelik

Tom Griffith

David Moskowitz

Brian O’Hare

Emily Mueller Ciobota

Dane Conwell

Ryan Dudzinski

USC Alumni Spotlight

Coming Full Circle

After a year of COVID-19 restrictions, USCHS football fans welcomed the return of the traditional half-time shows. And this fall, the Pride of Upper St. Clair Marching Band included a group of talented twirlers, coached by USC alumna Tammy Wheeler Lentz.

During her high Tammy Wheeler Lentz school years, Tammy was a majorette with USC’s marching band for three years, serving as head majorette during her senior year. Growing up, this 1993 graduate took dance and baton lessons at a local dance studio in Bethel Park, so being a majorette in high school was a natural fit.

After high school, Tammy majored in elementary education at Point Park University,

Back in the day, left to right: Jennifer Welch (Metzler), Tammy Wheeler (Lentz), Christine Aubel (Vinay)

eventually becoming a small business owner. Despite her busy life, Tammy’s love for dance and baton never disappeared.

Ten years ago, she started teaching baton at Bethel Park’s community center. She also teaches dance at Showtime Dance by Carly in South Park. A former dance student told her about the majorette coach position opening at Upper St. Clair High School this fall. She applied, and the rest is history. “I always wanted to be a high school team coach,” said Tammy. “For me, this was a dream come true.”

Tammy explained that in addition to training the small group of majorettes, she also worked with the other auxiliary members, which includes the color guard (flags) and Pantherettes (poms). All auxiliary members were part of a flag feature and a poms routine. In addition to their specialty areas, auxiliary members also practiced with the band, working on marching and other fundamentals. Tammy commented that the kids were wonderful to work with.

“They did a lot of things together and were all one unit,” she said.

Left to right: Amber Kanoza (assistant auxiliary coordinator), Jenni Herbine (auxiliary coordinator), Tammy Wheeler Lentz (assistant auxiliary coordinator/majorette coach)

In recent years, USC has experienced a decline in both band and auxiliary membership. When Tammy attended high school, there were typically 30 Pantherettes, 25 flags, and three to five majorettes each year.

This school year, there are only 18 auxiliary members in total.

Tammy said that Dr. John Seybert, USC’s performing arts curriculum leader, is working hard to increase the number of students in the marching band program. Now that the season has ended, Tammy plans to offer programs in the off-season to increase student awareness and interest in marching band and the auxiliary units.

Residing in Bethel Park, Tammy and her husband, Dave, have three sons, Ben (16), Dominic (12), and oldest, Casey (22), a student at Eastern Michigan University. n

Auxiliary members of the USCHS band are working with the District’s schools to offer camps.

Lessons at the Bethel Park Community Center are open to the public. In addition, Tammy offers private lessons and classes at Showtime Dance. For more information on any of these offerings, email Tammy at tamiam_74@yahoo.com.

Q&A with Martina Caruso, USCHS Class of 2010 College: BFA, Carnegie Mellon University; MEd, Carlow University Current City: Pittsburgh Current occupation/employer: Educator and owner of Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Q: How did your experiences at Upper St. Clair help you reach your educational and/ or professional goals?

A: My passion and love for music began when I performed in my first musical at Eisenhower Elementary School and grew over time as a student. I wouldn’t have been able to pursue a career in music performance and education if it weren’t for the lessons and connections I made during my time at USC. Q: What was the most valuable lesson you learned while a student at Upper St. Clair?

A: If you really love something, don’t give up on it, and have faith in your abilities. Just because you don’t always get the ‘A’ or the lead role in the musical or the starting position on a sports team, doesn’t mean you are

not capable of pursuing your dreams. Hard work, love, and dedication go a long way.

Q: What is your fondest memory during your time at Upper St. Clair?

A: My fondest memories were spent during my days in the choir room and performing on the high school stage. The friendships and experiences I had in these two places are irreplaceable; I fondly remember them often.

Q: What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

A: The accomplishment I’m most proud of to date is the opening of my music school, Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh. In opening this school, I’ve combined two of my greatest passions— music and early childhood education—to create something beautiful in USC, the community in which I grew up.

Q: Is there anyone in particular who had a major impact on you during your time in the USC school system?

A: Each of my music teachers, from elemen- Martina Caruso tary to high school, played a major role in my life. I often reflect on my experiences in these classrooms, and I am grateful to have had such a great team of music educators at USC. Q: Describe Upper St. Clair in three words?

A: Fun. Challenging. Home.

Q: What advice do you have for current USC students?

A: Continue doing what you love, and be open to new ideas about how to incorporate them into your future plans. There are wonderful opportunities available if you believe in yourself and are open to creativity. n

For a link to Martina’s information, see https://www.connect2uscsd.com/page/alumni-spotlight-martinacaruso-class-of-2010. See Children’s Music Academy article on page 74. For more information about USC alumni affairs, visit USC School District’s alumni website at https://www.connect2uscsd.com.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

49

Baker Teacher Wins Science Education Award Pam Dillie, a third-grade teacher at Baker Elementary and the District’s elementary science curriculum leader, was named the K-8 Science Education Award winner from the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh (SSP). “Teachers have one of the most difficult jobs of shaping and often changing the lives of their students,” said Pam Dillie with the Megan Melucci, SSP K-8 committee chair.

Pirate Parrot “This award was designed to recognize those outstanding science teachers in the K-8 levels.”

Pam was nominated for the honor by Dr. Patrick McClintockComeaux, Baker principal. “Pam worked tirelessly last school year to make science class come alive for both in-person and remote students,” said Dr. McClintock-Comeaux. “Her enthusiasm and willingness to do things in the name of engaging learners inspires her colleagues. Her work as a teacher and curriculum leader has helped all of the elementary students across the District find a passion for learning despite last year’s challenges.”

“The 2020–21 school year was clearly the most challenging year of my teaching career,” said Pam. “But, it was also one of the most rewarding. I am proud of the efforts put forth by our District, our staff, and our community.”

One of the many 2020–21 initiatives was the addition of 16 Wacky Wednesday science videos/lessons that featured hands-on experiments that could be completed at home. Topics included Diet Coke & Mentos, why leaves change color, fire safety, and more. Students

were encouraged to post a picture or video of their experiment on a PADLET board that could be viewed by other students and families across the District.

“A very rewarding moment came as I viewed the PADLET posts from the first Wacky Wednesday lesson, Diet Coke & Mentos,” said Pam. “When I saw more than 100 posted pictures and videos of kids with smiling faces having fun experiencing science, I knew we could do this! No matter how tough the year would get or how bad the pandemic would become, I realized we could get through this okay.”

Pam praised students and their families for their adaptability and resilience. “Our students and families did such a fabulous job,” said Pam. “Starting last August not knowing whether we would be in our brick-and-mortar building, to hybrid A team/B team, to remote learning, to wearing masks, to learning behind shields, and, finally, to successfully completing our school year, their resilience was impressive!”

A national board-certified teacher, Pam has 34 years of teaching experience in the elementary and middle school levels. She completed her undergraduate degree at California State College, her master’s equivalency from the University of Pittsburgh, and her master’s degree from Duquesne University. Pam and her husband, Doug, reside in Upper St. Clair and have two adult sons, Brent and Scott. n The Excellence in Science Teaching Awards program is open to Pennsylvania-certified science teachers in Kindergarten through grade eight within Allegheny County and surrounding county schools.

Honorees receive a plaque and monetary award.

Educators Present at Conferences Two Upper St. Clair educators served as presenters for national and state conferences. Dr. Christine Mussomeli, Boyce Middle School assistant principal, co-presented virtually at the national 2021 WomenEd US Virtual Unconference this past July.

Tracy Smith, USCHS physics and robotics teacher, presented at the Pennsylvania Science Teachers Association (PSTA) 2021 Virtual Conference in August.

The theme of the WomenEd US Virtual Unconference was Leading through an Epoch of Change. Dr. Mussomeli along with Dr. Nicole Roberts, a principal in the New Kensington-Arnold School District, led the topic “How do We Move from Self-Preservation Back to Self-Care?” Dr. Mussomeli emphasized that the contributions of women in the workplace are critical to the overall balance and health of any organization. “Our topic developed out of a need for others to acknowledge that the current global pandemic has adversely affected women’s professional growth and progress,” she said. “We feel that our voice can positively contribute to this ongoing conversation, and we have a great desire to share skills and strategies to support one another through these challenging times.”

As a woman leader, Dr. Mussomeli feels a sense of responsibility to model for other women leadership qualities and skills that inspire them to reach their full potential in whatever area they choose. “I feel grateful that I work alongside colleagues who value and encourage continuous professional learning and development,” she said. “Every time I attend a conference, or in this case, present, I appreciate the opportunity to learn from others and grow as a leader.”

WomenEd—a global grassroots movement that connects aspiring and existing women leaders in education and gives women leaders a voice in education—encourages women in education to have the choice to progress on their leadership journey.

50

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Tracy presented at the PSTA 2021 Virtual Conference: Innovating for the Future on the topic “Building a Community to Empower Student Innovators and Dr. Christine Mussomeli Tracy Smith Entrepreneurs— Every Teacher’s Role in Technology Education.” The presentation was focused on creating a collaborative environment where participants could share ideas, inspiration, and resources to empower student innovators and entrepreneurs, regardless of the courses that they teach.

Tracy believes that conferences are a great place to learn, network, and create. “Every time I attend a conference, there is at least one thing I take away that helps me develop as an educator. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily teaching responsibilities. Attending a conference can be just the thing to expand your educator role into new and rewarding directions,” she said.

In March 2022, Tracy will be a presenter at the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association Conference in Orlando, Florida, speaking on “Building a Community to Empower Student Innovators.”

“I love sharing my passion for education, whether it’s within a classroom of students or a room full of professionals. I hope to inspire people to take action and make a difference in the world,” said Tracy.

“It’s fun to interact with people who have a vision similar to my own.

I hope to ‘find my people’ who want to bring innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship opportunities to K–12 education, and collaborate with them to reduce the lag in educational implementation.” n

DANCE CONSERVATORY of pittsburgh

Cara Senger, USCHS’s newest assistant principal

New USCHS Assistant Principal Cara Senger, who served as head coach for the USCHS girls’ junior varsity soccer team and assistant coach for the varsity team in 2014, joined the high school staff as assistant principal this fall.

“I had the honor of working with young ladies who had a true passion to succeed on and off the field. These student-athletes valued the commitment of not only representing themselves well, but they also took pride in representing the school community in positive ways,” said Cara. “I look forward to working with the entire student body as an administrator for the District.”

For the last two years, Cara served as the 9–12 mathematics coordinator for Pittsburgh Public Schools. In this role, she oversaw all aspects of high school math curriculum and instruction. She taught secondary math at the Pittsburgh Public and Canon McMillan school districts and at Seton-LaSalle Catholic High School.

“Cara is a wonderful addition to our high school staff and leadership team.

Her secondary teaching experience, coupled with her more recent Districtlevel instructional leadership position, demonstrates the depth of her skills,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal.

“In addition, Cara’s strong interpersonal skills will endear her to families and students, sustaining the critical connection between home and school.”

Cara holds a master’s degree in technology education from California University of Pennsylvania, a bachelor’s degree in secondary education/mathematics from Point Park University, and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh. n

Register Now

412.344.3900

dcpdance.com

Call Upper St. Clair’s #1 agent to get maximum profit when selling your home!

412.692.1589

FOLLOW ME @juliewelterrealestate to view my listings and to see sneak peaks of upcoming homes before they hit the market!

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

51

National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists

Ten USCHS seniors—Bear Bottonari, Phoebe Chen, Sophie

Chen, Milan Giroux, Alex LeKachman, Eden Ma, Molly Maher, Kaelyn Moran, Nivedha Suresh, and Daniel Wang—were named Semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship competition, scoring in the top one percent of all juniors completing the PSAT in October 2020. “These students demonstrated incredible effort and dedication to their academic, as well as extracurricular, pursuits,” said Dr. Tim Wagner, high school principal. “We are proud and excited to see what the future holds for each of them.”

Students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT—the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test—during the fall of their junior year. The top one percent,

approximately 16,000 students, qualify as Semifinalists. Semifinalists can continue in the competition for some 7500 National Merit Scholarships that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application that highlights academic record, participation in school and community activities, and demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.

National Merit Finalists will be named in February 2022, followed by the National Merit Scholars in the spring. The program awards three types of National Merit Scholarships: 2500 National Merit Scholarships of $2500, approximately 1000 corporatesponsored Merit Scholarships, and 4100 college-sponsored Merit Scholarships.

Bear Bottonari

Phoebe Chen

Sophie Chen

Milan Giroux

Alex LeKachman

Eden Ma

Molly Maher

Kaelyn Moran

Nivedha Suresh

Daniel Wang

AP Scholars

The College Board announced that 145 USCHS students earned the designation of AP Scholar. These students earned recognition for their exceptional achievement in the college-level Advanced Placement Program in 2021.

“It’s an impressive and noteworthy accomplishment when students engage in a plan of studies that befits their individual needs,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, high school principal. “Then, when 145 members of our student body enroll in multiple advanced placement courses and achieve at a nationally-recognized level, I am reminded and proud of the dedication of our students, their teachers, and their families.”

In May 2021, 368 USCHS students completed 776 AP exams in 22 subjects, earning a 79% pass rate. AP tests are scored 1–5, and students must earn a 3 or higher to pass and possibly qualify for college credit. Colleges and universities have independent policies regarding awarding credits for AP courses.

Sixty students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. To qualify, 52

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

students must earn an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. The list of honorees includes 2021 graduates Olivia Amatangelo, Benjamin Bacdayan, Sujay Banerjee, Sydney Brown, Gabriella Brubach, Richard Carlson, Harrison Chui, Antara Cleetus, Franco D’Amico, Taylor Finkelstein, Reshma Gudla, Alexander Happ, Patrick Joyce, Bryce Keating, Donovan Kohler, Kara LaGoy, Andrew Levy, Katherine Li, Richa Mahajan, Lucas Manalo, Natalie Manalo, David McClintock, Shay McDowell, Madison Milone, John Mologne, Jack Myers, Kyle Ralyea, Alyssa Robert, Abigail Rutkowski, Ryan Sarkett, Samantha Seewald, Ishaan Shah, Sophia Shi, Tyler Super, Grace Suter, Constantine Tripodes, Jay Wang, Justin Yu, Veronica Zhang, and Henry Zou; seniors Phoebe Chen, Sophie Chen, Scott Cheung, Varun Damarla, Winter 2021

Saif Durrani, Linus Friedman, Rushikesh Kulkarni, Esha Lahoti, Ethan Leszczynski, Eden Ma, Luka Misic, Andrew Rosello, Vidhur Senthil, Aditri Thakur, Arunprakash Vasudevan, Daniel Wang, Shane Williams, Adam Zheng, and Shanning Zhou; as well as junior Peer Khan.

Thirty USCHS students earned recognition as AP Scholars with Honor by earning an average score of 3.25 or higher on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. AP Scholars with Honor include 2021 graduates Lilly Bernard, Christopher Bishop, Anish Chigurupati, Zhengru Fang, Daniela Gibbons, Hakan Guven, Steven Halpner, Sydney Lisak, Jacob Lucas, Kenneth Luo, Rohan Mishra, Claudia Ng, Manjiri Palayekar, Parth Patel, Emma Skeel, and Daniel Spatz; and seniors William Bacdayan, Bear Bottonari, Grace Copenhaver, Milan Giroux, Aubrey Lang, Trinity Murphy, Ethan Neal, Sriya Rayapureddy, Shana Reddy, Sambhav Saggi, Ritvik Shah, Nitish Sharma, Nikhil Shetty, and Jeet Sutreja.

Commended Students Twenty-eight USCHS seniors were named Commended Students in the 2022 Mention TODAY National Merit Scholarship Program. Scott Cheung, Alyana Childs, William Closser, Fun For Kids, Stress-Free For Parents!

Kaitlyn Clougherty, Varun Damarla, Saif Exp. 12/31/21 Haircuts Are Fun! Durrani, Linus Friedman, Shivani Jajoo, Rushikesh Kulkarni, Maggie Lowden, Cookie Cutters Catalina Marchando, Ethan Neal, Dev Patel, 4149 Washington Road Michael Pellicci, Sambhav Saggi, Vidhur McMurray, PA 15317 Senthil, Ritvick Shah, Sujay Shah, Nitish 724-809-3782 Safe, fun, friendly family feel • Indoor slide and media area Sharma, Nikhil Shetty, Jeet Sutreja, Evan Experienced staff members working with children of all abilities www.haircutsarefun.com/peterstwp-pa Tefft, Alexander Teresi, Hersh Tripathi, Online Booking Available On Our App TVs at each cutting station with games • Bubbles • Balloons Madeleine Wetzel, Andrew White, Shane Williams, and Adam Zheng are among the 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation who were recognized for their exceptional academic promise.

“Earning recognition as a Commended Student is a tremendous accomplishment,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, USCHS principal.

“These 28 seniors scored in the top three percent of all PSAT test-takers nationwide. We are incredibly proud of our students, their families, and their teachers.”

Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) last October. n

4 OFF

$

Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. For more information regarding the National Merit Scholarship Program, visit www.nationalmerit.org.

Fifty-five USCHS students earned the distinction of AP Scholar by earning scores of 3 or higher on three or more exams. AP Scholars include 2021 graduates Jackson Buchanan, Santiago Castro, Christina Conte, Raam Diora, Declan Gessel, Olivia Gianatasio, Malorie Glancy, Eileen Guo, Sara Hess, Noah Karow, Caroline Knizner, Brianna Lin, Kahra Loding, John Maddigan, Owen Mann, Joseph Markovitz, Morgan Meddings, Fatima Mendez, Alexander Mitchell, Daniel Rieker, Valentina Rosales, Anna Rush, Caroline Sandford, Sophia Schlichting, Amber Seery, Shilp Shah, Abelardo Sobarzo, Anjali Vishwakarma, Shamita Yanamadala, Shannon Yurcich, and Jason Zhang; seniors Jacob Bernstein, Alyana Childs, Ashley Eichberg, Kathleen Gianni, Shivani Jajoo, Prapti Kanani, Erin Payne, Victoria Pete, Eva Rankin, Sujay Shah, Mia Skeel, Nivedha Suresh, Evan Tefft, Alexander Teresi, Hersh Tripathi, Fiona Wang, Judy Wang, Maddie Wetzel, and Andrew White; as well as juniors Jasmine Dietiker, Jack Miller, Keshav Narasimhan, Patrick Nowak, and Daniel Wang.

is proud of our community’s students and their academic pursuits and achievements!

T h e C o l l e g e B o a rd ’s A d v a n c e d Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school, and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP exams. USCHS currently offers 21 AP courses, including AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Comparative Government and Politics, AP Computer Science A, AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature and Composition, AP Environmental Science, AP French Language, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP Music Theory, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, AP Psychology, AP Statistics, AP U.S. Government and Politics, AP U.S. History, and AP World History.

According to the College Board, AP students are more likely than their peers to complete college within four years, and students who take AP exams say it makes them feel more confident and prepared for college. n Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

53

Leadership Academy Supports Foster Care Program An important component of Upper St. Clair’s Leadership Academies is service learning. At Fort Couch Middle School, the focus was on one of the region’s most vulnerable population— children ages one to four who are transitioning into foster care.

Applying the leadership academy skills of teamwork and

productivity to work collectively in the creation of the donation bags and artwork, 47 rising seventh and eighth graders purchased and assembled 100 transition bags for the Foster Love Project.

Each bag was carefully filled with supplies to comfort young children during a scary and uncertain time. Fort Couch Leadership Academy students purchased and filled string bags with sunglasses, rubber ducks, glow sticks, inspirational art, and small toys.

According to Foster Love Project’s website, “There are currently more than 14,000 kids in foster care in Pennsylvania.

Every day, children are transitioned into new homes, along with a few items thrown in a trash bag. Instead, these transition bags are given to every foster agency we can connect with that will share our vision in ensuring that kids are able to take a bag of new belongings with them when they change homes.”

The leadership academy facilitators—teachers Andrew Bowers, Eliza Luxbacher, Thomas Hunsberger, and Michael DaVia— selected the Foster Love Project to highlight service opportunities that focus on children and families in a time that has created unseen hardships for so many in the community. “The Foster Love Project was a perfect fit for our middle school leadership students because of their mission to make the transition to foster care for children as positive and seamless as possible,” said Michael. “We hope that students realize they can have a meaningful impact on their communities, even with the smallest of actions.” n For a separate article on foster care, see page 64.

Leadership academy participants fill transition bags for foster care children.

Tennis Fun Day Fourteen high school students, with help from a few friends and parents, hosted the annual Tennis Fun Day—a city-wide tennis outreach and community service event—at Arsenal Park in Pittsburgh this past August. The goal of the event was to promote and grow the sport of tennis and encourage kids to be physically active and healthier.

The event was led by USCHS students Carter Chui and Evie Ellenberger, along with parents Lynn Ellenberger, Chrissy Gargani, Dana Patterson, and Stephanie Le. Student volunteers included Lou Gargani, Aadi Markose, Aly Childs, Asha Segall, Autumn Ma, Eden Ma, Ben Bordenstein, Izzy Yoos, Reilly Caslin, Anna Engleman, Harini Sakthivel, and Isabella Zhang, most of whom are members of the USCHS tennis teams. In addition, student volunteers from other communities included Sylvie Eriksen, Hannah Patterson, and Isabella Liu-Lopez.

“It was incredible to see how grateful the participants were to learn from the volunteers, and I was very glad to see how much fun we all had. I can’t wait to do this 54

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Tennis Fun Day, held at Arsenal Park in Pittsburgh

again next year,” said Carter Chui.

Volunteers collected more than 75 gently-used tennis racquets provided by local tennis players. The used racquets were refreshed with new strings and grips, which were generously donated by Gamma. In addition, new children’s racquets were donated by the United States Tennis Association’s Allegheny Mountain District (AMD), who, along with Dick’s Sporting Goods, provided financial support for the event.

The high school players and tennis pro Janis Finn, who volunteered her time Winter 2021

for the event, served as coaches throughout the day. They organized tennis drills and games to engage the players, while teaching them the fundamental strokes of tennis.

“Anyone can start playing tennis. The goals today were meant to spark an interest in a new generation of players and to promote health and fitness,” said Stephanie Le. The volunteers and players hope to continue their program this coming spring. n For more information, visit NetandClay.com.

Time to cash in on your equity.

We are experiencing the most active real estate market in years.

Call to find out what your home is worth from your neighborhood professional.

25+ Years as a Proven Professional Over 375 Million in Sales Results Relocation Specialist

Real Estate

• Mortgage • Title • Insurance

Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS 412-491-6984 or 412-833-3601 x 219

Staff Honored for 25 Years of Service Four staff members were honored for their 25 years of service to the Upper St. Clair School District during the District’s annual opening day of the 2021–22 school year for teachers and teacher aides.

Each staff member received a 25-year pin in recognition of his or her silver anniversary. Honorees included Christine Hestwood, Dan Holzer, Heidi Joseph, and Rose Ogden.

The morning event, held virtually, included remarks from Dr. Judy Bulazo, director of curriculum and professional development; Patrick Manion, teachers’ union president; Gina Swanson, Parent Teacher Council president; Patrick Hewitt, school board president; and Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of schools. n

Thank you...

Christine Hestwood Music Teacher Boyce, Fort Couch & USCHS (previously Baker Elementary)

ALL SMILES

& DANCING Petites Classes offered ages 18 months - 6 Years

BRINGING YOUR LITTLE ONE Friendship Happiness Creativity

Dan Holzer

Social Studies Teacher, Boys Basketball Coach, Student Activities Director & Senior Class Sponsor Upper St. Clair High School

Heidi Joseph

Special Education Aide Baker Elementary School

Rose Ogden

Confidential Administrative Assistant Nutrition Center

Call or email today for more information 412-257-2000 dance@thomasdance.com Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

55

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pianist Earns Honors Sophomore Finishes Fifth in FBLA Event Jason Lu, a USCHS junior,#TheyDidWhat earned USCHS sophomore Mahir Parmar placed fifth at the Future #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat high honors in the Carmel Klavier Virtual Business Leaders of America (FBLA) national leadership International Piano Competition for Young conference held virtually this past summer.

Mahir competed in #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Artists. He finished first in the competition’s the Introduction to Business category and qualified to compete Contemporary Composers, Advanced B at the national conference by placing first at Pennsylvania’s #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat (ages 16–18) category and was a semifinalist state competition. Other USCHS students who qualified in the Solo category. As a first-place winner, for nationals included seniors Vidhur Senthil, Rushikesh #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Jason is invited to participate in the Costa Kulkarni, Aubrey Lang, and Nivedha Suresh.

Rica Piano Festival next summer.

Jason #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Mahir Parmar also placed first in the local Pittsburgh International Piano Competition,#TheyDidWhat earning #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat first place Media Awards Winner in the Solo #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Libby Zavadil, a USCHS junior, earned high honors in the Division, 2021 Labsy Awards, part of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Youth B (ages #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Teen Media Awards. She earned first place in the Music (original 16–18) and composition) category for her piece titled “More,” which was first place #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat created for a string quartet.

In addition, she earned honorable in the Duet mention in the 2D Art and Design category.

Division, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat More than 200 young writers, visual artists, musicians, Youth B with filmographers, and inventors in Allegheny County vied for Sora Hopp. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat honors in the library’s 2021 Teen Media Awards, which includes the Ralph Munn Creative Writing Contest and the Labsy Awards. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat The awards, which serve as a platform for celebrating teens and their original content, recognize a broad range of creative work.

Jason Lu Libby Zavadil #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat College Board Program Scholars Two USCHS seniors earned recognition #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat as Program Scholars from the College Board for their#TheyDidWhat academic achievements and #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat outstanding performance on the PSAT and/ or AP. Samari Dreher was named a National #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Fort Couch Students Place Second in Video Contest#TheyDidWhat African American Recognition Program Eighth graders Kaia Petrick, Anoushka Barve, and Sara Gillespie created a two-minute Scholar and George Atencio was named a #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat video to show the link between science and creativity in coming up with vaccines for COVID National Hispanic Recognition Program (or in any other scientific breakthrough), and earned second place in the Take a Shot at Scholar. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Changing the World video contest.

“Their video stresses the importance#TheyDidWhat of creativity and These National Recognition programs teamwork in scientific research, generating new ideas, and making scientific progress,” said grant underrepresented students with #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Connie Gibson, Upper St. Clair’s#TheyDidWhat gifted coordinator for grades 7–12. “It#TheyDidWhat also incorporates academic honors that can be included historic landmark figures who have come up with vaccines.” on college and scholarship applications #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Take a Shot at Changing the#TheyDidWhat World invites educators to use the half-hour program and connect students with universities “Chasing Covid” in their classrooms to inspire conversations on the link between science across the country, helping them connect #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat and creativity, and to encourage middle and high school students to make#TheyDidWhat their own videos. to colleges and stand out during the According to the contest website, Chasing Covid is an “engaging and inspiring film that admissions process.

Students who may be #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat takes viewers inside the lab of The University of Pittsburgh’s Center for #TheyDidWhat Vaccine Research, eligible have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and where Dr. Paul Duprex, director and Jonas Salk professor, and his team have been working have excelled on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat collaboratively with scientists around the world to unlock the secrets of the coronavirus and 10, or earned a score of three or higher on find ways to defeat it. It also explores how today’s research builds on the pioneering work two or more AP exams; and are African #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat of the Pitt Virus lab that developed the Salk polio vaccine, and how changes in technology American or Black, Hispanic American or have led to a new ‘vaccine renaissance.’”

Latinx, Indigenous, and/or attend school in #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat a rural area or small town. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Samari Dreher George Atencio #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Left to right: Kaia Petrick, Anoushka Barve, Sara Gillespie #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat 56 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2021 #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat

#TheyDidWhat

#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Three Honored in Creative Writing Contest #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat T h re e U S C H S s t u d e n t s e a r n e d recognition in the 2021 Ralph Munn Creative #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Writing Contest. USCHS 2021 graduate Emily Rhodes placed second in the Poetry #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat category for her poem, “Blood Sisters.” In addition, junior Maanasa Reddy#TheyDidWhat received #TheyDidWhat honorable mention in both the Short Prose and Poetry categories, and senior Shana #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Reddy earned honorable mention in Poetry.

The award-winning entries are among the #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat student writings published in the 2021 Ralph Munn Creative Writing Anthology, which is #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat distributed to all Allegheny County public and school libraries. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Judging the Ralph Munn Creative Writing Contest were author Deesha Philyaw #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat (Short Prose) and emerging Poet Laureate of Allegheny County Paloma Sierra #TheyDidWhat (Poetry). #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat USC Grad Places at National Competition Emily Rhodes #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Maddie Nolen , USCHS Class of 2021, placed eighth in Original Spoken Word Poetry at #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) nationals. The virtual event, which included hun#TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat dreds of teams and thousands of competitors from across the country, was held this past June. #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat In addition to breaking the top ten in Original Spoken Word Poetry, Maddie finished #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat 42 in Humorous Interpretation, 32 in Prepared #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Prompt Speaking, and 62 in Poetry. “She was the top-scoring Pennsylvania student in each event, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat except Prepared Prompt Speaking, where she Maanasa Reddy placed second,” said Ben Edwards, USCHS Speech #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Maddie Nolen & Debate team coach. “This is the second straight year Maddie advanced in at least three events at nationals.” #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Other top USCHS performers included seniors Ammar Kethavath and Will Bacdayan, 30 in Public Forum Debate (top-score in Pennsylvania); senior Rushikesh #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Kulkarni, 65 in International Extemporaneous Speaking (second highest score in #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Pennsylvania); and junior Jack Miller, 73 in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking (fourth highest score in Pennsylvania). #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Also qualifying to nationals were 2021 USCHS graduates Bryce Keating and Joe Phillips (Duo Interpretation); seniors Saif bin Hammad (International Extemporaneous #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Speaking) and Henry Rainone (Humorous Interpretation); juniors Cameron Weber (International Extemporaneous Speaking) and Matthew Hrehocik (International #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Extemporaneous Speaking); and sophomore Aarav Patil (Informative Speaking).

USCHS Speech & Debate is coached by Ben Edwards, USCHS social studies teacher, #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat Shana Reddy and Dave Watson, USCHS English teacher. n #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 57

Winter 2021 #TheyDidWhat #TheyDidWhat nd

nd

nd

th

th

rd

PTC Parent Teacher Council (PTC) Gina Swanson, President With the approaching Thanksgiving holiday, I think fall is a perfect season to think of the many blessings in my life. I am grateful for my family, my (sometimes) well-behaved dog, and my friends who support me through good times and bad.

And, of course, I am incredibly grateful for the teachers, administrators, and all the support staff who work together to create an exceptional educational experience for my children.

Recently, I’ve been thinking of a few groups of volunteers who may not always receive the gratitude they deserve. I’d like to highlight several of these groups and let them know that their contributions are recognized and appreciated.

The first of these groups are our coaches.

The incredibly active recreation sports scene in USC relies on volunteer parent coaches, who are often criticized for insignificant complaints. Instead, coaches should be celebrated for the countless hours spent at practices and games and for the extra words of encouragement to struggling athletes. To all the coaches, I say “thank you” for your patience and for instilling in our athletes the value of good sportsmanship.

Another group of overlooked volunteers is the Board of School Directors. The members spend untold hours in meetings, reviewing personnel issues, curriculum recommendations, and budget discussions to ensure a strong school system for the good of our students and the entire community. The global pandemic has further complicated their job, and they have risen to this difficult task. To the board, I say “thank you” for your dedication and your service to the USCSD. Please know that your efforts are valued and appreciated by so many in our community.

Finally, I would like to highlight the PTO volunteers. They play a crucial role in planning (and funding!) special events at each school that enhance the overall school experience. I appreciate the opportunities to work alongside them, and I’m incredibly grateful that so many have gone from being fellow volunteers to friends. To the PTO volunteers, your energy and enthusiasm are awe-inspiring. You should be commended for your creativity and hard work. You all rock!

Spend a few moments thinking about the volunteers who enhance your life. How will you let them know they are appreciated?

58

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Pawprints...

High School PTSO Maria Cedar, President At our last PTC meeting, we decided to write about gratitude for this edition of TODAY. Focusing on gratitude creates joy through reflection. In particular, with having gone through a pandemic, many are finding joy with a return to normal activities. Not having our routines has made us appreciate them even more. With school in session, our children find comfort in seeing their friends and teachers. We appreciate the great school staff who help our children daily.

Fort Couch PTSO Sarah Beitler, President Holiday greetings from The Fort! I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season.

The holidays can bring so much joy and excitement, but for some, it can also bring stress and anxiety. Recent evidence suggests an activity that can help relieve stress is the practice of gratitude. People who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed. Practicing gratitude can be as simple as writing a kind note on one of your holiday cards to a friend, family member, or other person in your life.

When you write about how grateful you are to others and how many people have blessed your life, it makes it harder for you to think about any negative experiences you may be having. Gratitude reverses our priorities and helps us appreciate the people and things we do.

As the Fort Couch PTSO president, I decided to write a note of gratitude to all the personnel who surround our children each school day. Teachers, aides, principals, counselors, nurses, secretaries, custodians, transportation drivers, school administration, school board members, and parents—thank you! I know the changes in the past two years due to the pandemic haven’t been easy, and your efforts are sometimes overlooked. I want you to know that you are recognized and appreciated. Thank you for your commitment to our students.

For that, I am beyond grateful to all of you!

We look forward to the new calendar year at The Fort. Stay connected and get involved through the Fort Couch PTSO website (https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/domain/321), “Headlines’” on the Fort Couch website, FCPTSO Facebook page (https:// facebook.com/FortCouchPTSO/), and the School District’s USC Weekly Recap.

If you have any questions or feedback, contact me at FCPTSOPresident@gmail.com.

Winter 2021

Boyce PTO Pamela Scureman, President Mr. Rogers used to say, “It’s not so much what we have in this life that matters. It’s what we do with what we have.”

Boyce Middle School PTO, administration, and staff work together to offer many service project opportunities for our students. These projects are meant to help support local charities, while encouraging our students to grow as individuals, which includes reflecting on gratitude and being grateful.

Throughout the previous school year (and listed below) are just a few of the projects that were completed.

The Friendship Shoebox Project, organized by both Boyce guidance counselors, benefits children in need through Merakey (https://www.merakey.org/). This project not only is a wonderful opportunity for our students to help the less fortunate in the surrounding communities, but it is also a time for our students to come together and work cooperatively with their fellow classmates. The students wrap their shoeboxes in their respective guidance classes, and, at times, students need some assistance with wrapping or decorating their cards. It’s heartwarming to see how they help one another, especially during the holiday season.

Coming together for a worthy cause and seeing the happiness that is spread throughout our school building makes this one of the most rewarding service projects at Boyce,” said Tonia Autieri, current fifth grade guidance counselor.

Amy Antonio, current sixth grade guidance counselor, led a project where students sold Valentine Grams to benefit Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (https:// www.pittsburghfoodbank.org/). Amy reported that “the fundraiser was extremely successful. The goal was to donate $1000.

By purchasing Valentines for classmates, friends, and teachers, Boyce students and their families donated more than $3700 dollars!”

Student council, organized by Justin Gremba, the school’s sixth grade math teacher, collected 600 pounds of pantry items throughout the month of March for a food drive that benefitted South Hills Interfaith Movement (https://shimcares. org/). SHIM’s three fully-stocked food pantries are available to eligible neighbors in Baldwin-Whitehall, Bethel Park, South Park, Keystone Oaks, Mt. Lebanon, and Upper St. Clair school districts. This year,

... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature we will continue with these service projects and add a few more.

Boyce partnered with the not-for-profit Socks With A Mission, which is run by Boyce sixth grader Audrey Wetterau (https://www. sockswithamission.org/about_us). A sock drive in October benefited the homeless in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

Boyce PTO is supporting Boyce student council in implementing National Recognition Days. The students participating on student council will have opportunities to say “thank you” to the community helpers at Boyce.

Boyce Middle School PTO, administration, and staff are grateful for the support from all the Boyce families, who help to make all these service projects a success!

Baker PTA Sarah Cranganu, President Since most of our traditional winter events at Baker Elementary are currently on hold, we would like to spotlight a new faculty member. Sarah Shoemaker is the newly appointed music teacher at Baker. A Duquesne University graduate with a BS in music education, Sarah has studied voice in Italy at the Lorenzo de’ Medici school and is continuing her post-baccalaureate studies in gifted education through Millersville University. In addition to her musical talents and interests, Sarah, a Philadelphia-area native, is a crafty person who enjoys biking and traveling.

Teaching music for ten years, Sarah recounts her favorite moments as when students individually shine during orchestral performance. She finds that “when students find their own voice while creating harmonies with others” to be especially rewarding.

Among the many content areas to be explored this year with all Baker students, Sarah is excited about the possibility of both a fourth grade choral and musical performance in the spring. The Baker PTA is committed to helping her ideas come to fruition through creating set pieces, sourcing production materials, or scouting alternative performance venues. She would also like to involve Baker families in school music education by sharing their songs and customs from their particular homes and backgrounds with their child’s classmates.

On behalf of Baker PTA, welcome Sarah!

Eisenhower PTO Justine Walker, President Teachers are an integral part of any school, especially at Eisenhower. We are thankful to add two new teachers this school year: Alexa Seelye (fourth grade) and Corey Vasbinder (physical education). Although they are not new to teaching, they are both excited to be part of the Eisenhower community this year. Since parent interaction with teachers is again limited this year, the PTO would like to spotlight these two new staff members.

Alexa attended W&J College, and student taught at Eisenhower eight years ago. She received her master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania. She loves to learn, and would like to instill in her students that love for learning. She enjoys interacting with them, learning from them, and helping them understand content of any course. For Alexa, one of her favorite parts of Eisenhower so far has been her coworkers.

“It’s amazing and refreshing to be surrounded by such motivated, hardworking, and caring professionals. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms, and I already feel as if Eisenhower is my second family,” she said.

Corey graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a BS in health and physical education, and has been teaching for ten years. He enjoys helping students learn to love movement and finding what they like doing. Also, he says the excitement from elementary students is contagious, and that makes his job so much fun! Corey said that “everyone—students and staff—has been so warm and welcoming. It shows how great a culture the Eisenhower community is.”

We are happy to introduce you to Eisenhower’s newest staff members, and we wish our Eisenhower family a wonderful winter holiday season!

PTC

Streams PTO Jennifer Clougherty, President At Streams Elementary, we are grateful for our “USC Pillars” of Unity, Success, and Character! Our Streams PTO board is grateful for our unity in standing together to support our students, families, teachers, staff, and community in many ways. We enjoy showing our teachers and staff how grateful we are for them with Teacher and Bus Driver Appreciation events. And, we are helping our families and community with our Sharing and Caring, Outreach, and Children for Children committees. Of course, we also do the most for our students and try to teach them unity amongst each other by having fun together during Stravaganza, grade special nights, family bingo, Field Day, and many other PTO-sponsored events!

Streams is grateful for all the success in our school! The PTO celebrates many successes with the talent show, fourth grade graduation, and Kindergarten Olympics!

We also enjoy watching our children succeed with learning musical instruments, creating beautiful art projects, and playing various sports.

Finally, we are grateful for the character of everyone at our school. From our hardworking, friendly, and genuine principal, Dr. Klousnitzer, to the diligent, devoted, and loving teachers, to the sweet, kind, and caring students, we have a building that is bursting with character. We can’t help but have an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for all of them!

As the Streams PTO president, I am immensely grateful for my fellow PTO board members: Michelle Faulds, Karen Anderson, Julie Moran, Michelle Holzer, Dr. Klousnitzer, and teacher Carrie Dunbar! They are all wonderful to work with, and I am grateful to each one of them for the help they provide in making all our PTO events a success! n

USC Kindergarten Registration 2022–2023 Information regarding Kindergarten registration for the 2022–23

school year will be posted on Upper St. Clair School District’s website (www.uscsd.k12.pa.us) in early 2022. The District operates a half-day Kindergarten program, with the morning program held 8:15–10:55 a.m. and the afternoon program 12:05–2:45 p.m.

Students registering for Kindergarten must be five years of age by September 1, 2022, to be enrolled for the 2022–23 school year. Proof of residency within the USC School District is required for enrollment.

Questions? Contact Terri Lott, registration coordinator, at 412-833-1600, ext. 2283, or via email at tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us. n Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

59

LIFE PL ANNING

Your neighborhood is your home, and that’s where you’ll find us.

Live a carefree lifestyle while having the support of a world-class health system when you may need it. With comfortable housing options for those at all stages of retirement, you’re sure to discover a place that’s perfect for you. UPMC Senior Communities benefits from medical oversight provided by Dr. David Nace who is regarded as a national expert in the safe operation of senior residences during COVID-19.

Contact us today and ask us about our limited-time special on select move-in-ready units.

700 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon asburyheights.org • 412-571-5133

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.

Reimagine Downsizing

3502_SRLIV521212_ah_usc_today_print_ad_7.5x4.875_b.indd 1

7/2/21 1:45 PM

John Komisary, Director of Marketing, Asbury Heights There will come a time in our lives when we can no longer do the things we once could. Everyday tasks—cleaning the house, cutting the lawn, and shopping for groceries—will one day be too much for us to handle. When we reach this point, downsizing our homes may be necessary for us to continue living our best lives.

Are you at this point? Has maintaining your home become too burdensome? Downsizing your home can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Below are a few tips to consider before you begin downsizing your home.

• Create an album of memories. Moving from a home you’ve known for many years is a large step and can be an emotional experience. Take photos of your home and your favorite things about it, and place them in a photo album or scrapbook. Doing this with a loved one can help make the transition easier. You can spend time reminiscing about old memories, while creating new ones.

• Discover hidden treasures. Seek out an appraiser to assess the value of older objects. Discovering that items are worth a significant value can reduce the stress of downsizing and boost the morale of everyone involved in the downsizing process.

• Plan ahead. Plan your move ahead of time. Use a floor plan to arrange furniture and other belongings before moving them into your new space.

• Get assistance. Recruit help from younger family members, friends, or neighbors. A professional moving company or organizer is also a good option if your budget permits.

Think of downsizing more as “rightsizing.” You need a place that’s right for your current lifestyle. If you’ve been an empty 60

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

nester for a while, chances are that you have more space than you need, and that’s more space you have to maintain. Moving into a more manageable space will give you more time and energy to focus on the people and things that you enjoy.

Imagine not having to vacuum rooms that nobody goes into anymore. Think of all the time you could save not having to cut the lawn or repair that drip in the sink. Instead, use that time to do what you like and go where you want.

The nest may be empty, but your heart is surely full of the wonderful memories you made in your home. Now is your time.

It’s time to focus on the next chapter of your life—one that doesn’t involve the headaches that come with homeownership. Less time occupied with housework means more time doing what you enjoy.

Many retirees consider moving into a senior living community, where they can live in a maintenance-free environment and get the most out of their post-nest years. Today’s communities offer services and opportunities in line with your current lifestyle, including social outings to restaurants, live entertainment onsite, and WiFi in common areas.

If you’re curious to learn more about what today’s senior living community has to offer, set up a tour of the Asbury Heights campus and discuss more about how a “rightsize” move can benefit you. Reach John Komisary at 412-571-5133 or by email at komisaryjr@upmc.edu. n See ad for Asbury Heights, part of PUMC Seniors Communities, on this page.

LIFE PL ANNING

MOM NEIGHBOR REALTOR $33 million+ sold 137+ families served

SCAN ME

TO TO KEEP KEEP UP UP WITH WITH OUR OUR USC USC HOUSING HOUSING MARKET! MARKET! O:

412.833.5405

C:

412.506.2394

dora.rudick@pittsburghmoves.com

© 2019 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 subsidary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

Is it the Right Time to Buy a House?

MOVEMENT

Dora Rudick, Coldwell Banker Realty, and Kevin O’Laughlin, Movement Mortgage We’ve all heard about the historically-low interest rates for the past year, and that the real estate market has been hotter than ever.

The refinance market also boomed. But, is it still a good time to buy a house? The short answer is “Yes!” Let’s break it down into five reasons.

1. Mortgage rates remain at historic lows. The average rates just a handful of years ago were two percent and higher than they are today.

2. Buying versus renting puts money in your pocket instead of in your landlord’s pocket.

3. As house prices continue to appreciate, putting off buying could mean you pay more for a house next year than you would have this year.

4. Remote work and learning remain a reality for many people.

Having a space you love to do it in is key when you spend most of each day there.

5. There is uncertainty in the world right now, but this is not the housing crash of 2007–08. When that crash occurred, it was because mortgages were being granted too easily and were not strongly backed. Today, it’s more difficult to secure financing.

You have to be qualified and show proof. Mortgages are only being given to people with strong evidence that they can pay the mortgage loan back. n

M O R T G A G E

P: 412-282-3039 F: 412-308-5667 W: KOMORTGAGETEAM.COM 110 FORT COUCH RD, SUITE 303 BETHEL PARK, PA 15241

THE KO MORTGAGE TEAM MAIN LINE (CALL OR TEXT): 412-520-3957

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

8024 Calvin Hall Rd, Indian Land, SC 29707. CPID 5238 I Exp. 7/2018

See ads for Dora Rudick, Coldwell Banker Realty, and Kevin O’Laughlin, Movement Mortgage, on this page.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

61

LIFE PL ANNING

The Unique Benefits of Life Plan Communities Marilyn Walsh, Baptist Homes Society

There are many benefits of living in a Life Plan Community, also known as a continuing care retirement community, or CCRC. As people begin to realize the importance of having a plan for their retirement, including how to remain active as they age, CCRCs are growing in popularity. Rising costs and everchanging options available to seniors are also on their radar. Retirees are attracted to the assurance of healthcare at the reduced rates CCRCs offer. But the CCRC is also attractive for the peace of mind it provides.

When Linda and Renny Clark started looking for their retirement home, they called on their memories of Linda’s parents who lived in a CCRC. Linda said she never felt the need to “take care of” her parents. They were happy, active, and had a whole community of friends. So, Linda and Renny were looking for

a similar home where they could enjoy the security and sense of community her parents had in their later years.

Linda and Renny looked at many retirement communities before deciding on Providence Point. But, once they made their decision, they knew it was the right one.

They also knew that, by making their own decision, they were relieving their children of any possible burden for taking care of them in later years.

Last year, the Clarks moved into their beautiful Providence Point patio home. They love how easy life is with the services and amenities that Providence Point provides. Linda and Renny enjoy traveling, so they appreciate Providence Point’s location near Interstate 79.

They’re also pleased with the flexibility they have coming and going, without worrying

Linda and Renny Clark

about their home while they’re gone. Recently, as they were returning from a long drive to the east coast, Linda started thinking about the empty refrigerator that awaited them—and they were both hungry. Renny reminded her that Providence Point’s Madison Café would be open when they arrived, and even offered delivery if they wanted. The longer they live here, the Clarks realize all the benefits Providence Point offers. n See ad for Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community, on page 63.

Winter is Coming. Again.

The Housing Shortage

Not only is winter coming again, but so are the holidays. As we prepare our homes for holiday festivities, let’s also prepare them for the elements of winter.

Below are some maintenance items to consider before the snow hits the ground and roof.

• Check your chimney to make sure everything is in working order before lighting the first fire of the season. Creosote buildup can cause fires. Your chimney should be inspected and cleaned after approximately 70 or so fires. To do a check, take your fireplace poker and run it along the inside of your chimney. If you find build-up of an eighth of an inch or more, it’s time to call the chimney sweep.

• Check your roof for possible outside damage since last season.

Wind and weather damage can cause loose shingles and the flashing around the chimney to be affected. Have a roofer take a look before the snow comes.

• Two important reasons to keep your house air tight and free from gaps and holes are 1) keeping out moisture and cold air and 2) keeping out any unwanted critters.

• Sealing your home of cracks can also make your home more energy efficient, saving you money and keeping you warm and cozy. Check your windows, too, to see if you need to replace any weather stripping.

• Disconnect garden hoses from outside faucets, and drain them before the temperature dips below freezing. Attached hoses can cause water to back up in the faucets and in the pipes just inside your home’s exterior walls. If freezing temperatures occur when hoses are connected, the water can freeze, expand, and crack the faucet or pipes.

• Clean your gutters of leaves and debris that may have fallen during the summer and early fall months. Your gutters are your best ally when it comes to moving moisture away from your house, and it’s critical to keep them free of obstruction. Clogged gutters can back up and freeze, causing major destruction.

By taking care of a few house maintenance items ahead of time, you can make sure that the upcoming holiday season is merry and bright. n

Houses are selling fast and with multiple offers. The leading cause is a shortage of houses on the market. Many sellers have low interest rates on their loans and are staying in them. There is a shortage of new construction, as well.

It is very important to know why getting your house or maybe your parents’ house in good condition for a sale. Prepping prior to marketing the house can make the sale go more smoothly.

Do you save a lot of stuff for fear you may need it someday? Are you a collector? Are your closets filled with clothes you never wear?

We tend to store a lot of our treasures over the years.

Being a realtor for more than 34 years, I have seen many sellers struggle with finding how they can get their house ready for a listing and eventual sale. When the seller has already purchased another house, that is a first step. Getting the selected furniture moved to the new house will make room for a possible estate sales person to conduct an inventory of what can be sold. Donations can be made to charities, and some things probably should be thrown away. Family members can be of help by taking some things they may want.

After the house is vacant, the work on the house begins. If the floors have older carpets that are worn, removing them to expose wood flooring is a possible remedy. Updating the lighting fixtures will help give a new look. A coat of paint throughout will brighten up the walls. If the kitchen and baths are outdated, maybe painting the cabinets and adding new knobs will give a new look to the rooms at little cost. A new kitchen counter and new appliances will help make that room more appealing.

My advice is do not wait for an emergency. To keep things orderly and not overwhelming, start by cleaning out one room at a time. Donate or sell unwanted furniture, tools, clothes, etc. You’ll be amazed at how good you’ll feel when you see the results!

Remember that buyers will normally be ready to take possession of the house they buy in 30 to 45 days. Can you be ready to move out that quickly? Start now to help make your sale and your move that much easier. n

Lynn Dempsey, Coldwell Banker Realty

See ad for Lynn Dempsey, Realtor®, Coldwell Banker Realty, on page 63.

62

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Sandy Goldstein, Keller Williams Realty

See ad for Sandy Goldstein, ABR, e-Pro, The Gold Team, Keller Williams Realty, on page 63.

LIFE PL ANNING

This is beautiful.

This is home.

When Providence Point is your address, the retirement of your dreams is at your fingertips!

With our wellness focus, our wide array of apartment and patio home floor plans, countless amenities, and four dining venues, you’ll wonder why you waited. Providence Point is Pittsburgh’s premier retirement address, offering stellar wellness and healthcare.*It is a Life Plan Community, designed for the way you live now with the added peace of mind you want for your future.

See all of our spacious floor plans and learn more about our community at www.providencepoint.org

A Baptist Homes Society community

WWW.PROVIDENCEPOINT.ORG

CALL 412.489.3550

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

PP Ad-USCWinter2021.indd 1

10/13/2021 11:09:45 AM

PERFORMANCE EXCEEDS PROMISES!

GO FOR THE

GOLD TEAM more than 30 YEARS of real estate experience

Sandy Goldstein ABR e-Pro Marshall Goldstein, The Gold Team

Opening the Doors to Your New Home Lynn Dempsey, Realtor

®

lynn.dempsey@pittsburghmoves.com www.lynnsellspittsburgh.com Tel: 724-941-9400 x 215 Cell: 412-721-0306

Corporate Relocation Specialist: C: (412) 445-6264 CARTUS, SIRVA, Weichert, BRGR

The Gold Team, Keller Williams Realty PA License RS162211A

O: (412) 833-5405

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

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

63

AROUND THE TOWNSHIP

November is National Adoption Awareness Month Ed Di Gangi

Originating in 1976 when then Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis declared the first week of November Adoption Week, the designation was extended nationally in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation establishing National Adoption Week. To further increase adoption awareness, President Bill Clinton in 1995 expanded the designation to the full month of November, with the Saturday before Thanksgiving declared National Adoption Day starting in 2000.

Today, it’s estimated that seven million Americans are adoptees and that 100 million have direct experience with adoption in their immediate family, either having adopted or placed a child for adoption or being an adoptee themselves.

While the purpose of National Adoption Month and National Adoption Day is to draw attention to the importance of all adoption-related issues, 2021’s focus is on the critical issues surrounding the adoption of children in foster care. Numbers vary by source, but it’s generally agreed upon that there are more than 400,000 children currently in foster care in the U.S. As of 2019, 15,500 of them were in Pennsylvania. Nationally, the average age of these children is eight years, with slightly more boys in foster care than girls.

While approximately half of foster care children will ultimately

be returned to one or both of their parents or to a caregiver, another 25% find adoptive homes, typically with foster parents. At any given point in time, however, an additional 120,000 foster children are in situations where they cannot be returned to their families and, so, continue to await adoption.

Sadly, the longer a child remains in care awaiting adoption, the less “attractive” they become to potential parents. While the average time for a child in foster care is somewhat over a year, it’s estimated that as many as 60% of these children remain in foster care from two to five years, and that 20% may remain in foster care for more than five years. Roughly 20,000 of them, depending on the state in which they are being cared for, “age out” of foster care, having reached the age of 18 or 21 without having been adopted. n A former resident of Upper St. Clair, Ed Di Gangi is an adoptee and now lives with his wife, Linda, in Hillsborough, North Carolina. The author of The Gift Best Given: A Memoir, the story recounts his search for the woman who placed him for adoption at the time of his birth and the surprising discoveries he made during his journey. More information can be found at www.digangiauthor.com. Access to state-level statistics on foster care can be found at www.childtrends.org.

Get Back to Your Routine with Annual Urology Screenings The common perceptions related to urologic concerns can be as simple as they sound. Take kidney stones—they just sound like they hurt. And anyone who has experienced direct pain from kidney stones or other related urologic symptoms would likely tell you that they do. Which leads to arguably the most important reason to get your annual urology screening: much of what your urologist is checking for doesn’t have any symptoms. And yet, a simple, routine assessment can identify significant issues and risks patients may be facing.

“A lot of what we treat doesn’t have any immediate outward indicators,” says Dr. Jay A. Lutins of St. Clair Health. “Most patients have underlying conditions that are more subtle—they’re almost hidden. For example, we routinely have men and women come in to see us, and find that a simple urinalysis shows blood in their urine.

They feel fine, and they haven’t actually seen it. But, when we take a closer look, there might be a bladder tumor or other marker that they never would have known about without that initial screening.”

Taking an inside look at what’s really going on with their patients allows the St. Clair Medical Group–Urology staff to identify significant issues with painless testing, and early detection is a key part of how a patient’s urologic routine proves successful over time.

“We can detect a lot about the kidney, bladder, pelvis, and prostate with ultrasound. There’s no radiation, so it’s a safe and effective way for us to get a lot of information right away,” says Dr. Lutins. “One common issue we see is with retention—patients who think they’re emptying their bladder all the way every time. A simple ultrasound can tell us that they’re really still full, and that helps us get a clearer picture of what treatment options will best serve their needs—right there in the office.”

And, at the brand-new, state-of-the-art Dunlap Family Outpatient Center, the group is able to fast-track personalized patient care based on those screening results. “If you need a CT scan or additional testing, we can expedite everything so you can receive the truly 64

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

integrated care you might need under one roof,” Dr. Lutins adds.

Urology is all about preserving and maintaining kidney function, because when your kidneys fail, they effect other organ systems Dr. Jay Lutins in the body. “When we see something that’s affecting the kidneys and find a way to reverse it, patient health improves dramatically,” says Dr. Lutins.

Dr. Lutins works in collaboration with a group of four additional experts who are driven by a common goal to gather information quickly in order to determine a patient’s best course of treatment. And, their combined experience translates to wide-reaching capabilities.

“Something as simple as having trouble going to the bathroom can have a negative impact on seeing your family or even just being able to sit through a ball game. We get that. We’re treat patients across the entire urologic spectrum, including the intricacies of erectile dysfunction and the challenges of prostate cancer. So, whether you’re dealing with day-to-day discomfort or facing a life-threatening illness, we’ve got your back,” says Dr. Lutins.

For Dr. Lutins and the St. Clair Medical Group–Urology team, a focus on paying respect to both quality and quantity of life helps inform the path to treatment for every patient they see. “Both ends of the spectrum are equally important. If you’re symptomatic from a blockage, a mass, or a cyst, the first thing we’re going to work on is getting you pain-free, then we’ll figure out how to get through it together. If you’re asymptomatic, we can help you understand what your risk factors are and whether we need to be more aggressive or practice active surveillance over time. It all starts with your annual screening,” says Dr. Lutins. n Learn more about St. Clair Medical Group–Urology at stclair.org. To schedule your annual urology screening, call 412-942-4100.

Horses with Hope Stays Busy Over the Winter Months Tim Gagne

W h i l e We s t e r n Pennsylvania is winding down for the winter, Horses with Hope Discovery, Growth & Learning Programs, which earlier this year moved to the Upper St. Clair Historical Society’s Gilfillan Farm, is still going strong with a variety of programs and events.

Equine Assisted Learning Horses with Hope’s Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) programs for groups of six or more are designed to promote personal growth and the development of positive social/life skills in a fun and supportive environment. EAL uses a research-based curriculum of activities designed to address individual goals and needs. Each equine interaction is un-mounted and framed to help individuals learn and grow.

All programs are taught by a PATHintl TR instructor and/or an EAGALA-certified equine specialist at Horses with Hope’s indoor facility on Brush Run Road in Bethel Park.

Giving Tuesday and United Way Campaigns Giving Tuesday will be held this year on Tuesday, November 30. The idea behind Giving Tuesday is to take a break from the bedlam of holiday shopping to focus on helping those in need in our own community. Please consider Horses with Hope in your 2021 Giving Tuesday contributions.

To donate, visit https://www.horseswithhope.org/donate.

Does your company conduct an annual United Way campaign? Or maybe you give to the United Way and the myriad of nonprofits it supports. Horses with Hope is a beneficiary organization of the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. If you’re planning a United Way donation, please specify that you’d like your contribution to go to Horses with Hope.

Annual Bowling Fundraiser You’ll be bowled over by the amazing time you’ll have at Horses with Hope’s annual bowling fundraiser on Sunday, November 14, noon–3 p.m. at Meadows Lanes, Meadows Racetrack & Casino, 210 Racetrack Road in Washington, Pennsylvania. Twenty-four lanes are reserved for this event, so it’ll be a great way to interact with staff, volunteers, and supporters while raising money for Horses with Hope’s programs. The cost is $200 per lane or $35 per person. Register by contacting Joanne Slappo at 412-576-4154 or laslappo@verizon.net.

Volunteer Opportunities Becoming a Horses with Hope volunteer is an ongoing opportunity that is more than just helping out. Volunteers are an integral part of the team. It’s through

their enthusiasm and dedication that the group is able to make a difference in the lives of others in our community. Volunteer opportunities exist within a variety of options. Not only within the stable and helping with the riding programs, volunteers are also welcomed in the areas of fundraising, student mentors, community events, animal care, and more.

Volunteers must be 14 years of age to assist with therapeutic riding lessons. Volunteer forms and information can be found at www.horseswithhope.org/volunteer.

About Horses with Hope Horses With Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The group’s programs focus on improving the lives of children, youth, and adults by assisting them in reaching beyond their abilities, allowing daily success and milestones to be accomplished through the partnership developed by horse and rider. n For more information on Horses with Hope Discovery, Growth & Learning Programs, visit https://www.horseswithhope.org.

Meet Buddy Meet Buddy, a new addition to the Horses with Hope herd that you may see as you walk or drive by Gilfillan Farm.

This nine-year-old Haflinger arrived with the name “Buddy,” and it fits him perfectly! Always right by your side, he Buddy is proving to be everyone’s buddy. Entering the therapeutic riding program in the 2022 season, the Horses with Hope staff is confident that he’ll be a favorite among participants. n Visit Facebook @HWHTherapeuticRiding to see more animals coming soon to Gilfillan Farm.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

65

We Are YOUR Community Foundation Organized by residents concerned about the future of our community, the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair has fostered many community projects throughout the township since 1993. Our mission is “to build a sense of community by supporting activities and programs that enhance the quality of life for our residents.” To fulfill this mission, funds are secured from donations, fund raisers, memorial contributions, grants from other foundations, and the state government. Our goal is to nurture ideas and support innovations by contributing financial backing for special programs and projects that may not be funded by tax dollars. Grants are available for programs and projects that fall into the focus areas of Arts, Health, and STEM. Visit www.cfusc.org/grants to complete an application.

AR EST.

EST.

TS

HEALTH

EST.

1993

1993

M

TE

S EST.

1993

1993

EST.

1993

www.cfusc.org

Step Out St. Clair Participants in the Step Out St. Clair Health Initiative (S.O.S.) submitted their steps and here are the top three scores!

Congratulations to Gold Medalist Laurie M. (884,112 steps) Silver Medalist Gina S. (852,753 steps) Bronze Medalist Anna D. (444,670 steps)

h y

d r

a t e daily!

And Step Out Safely!

Mindfulness and the Integrity of “Sharing the Road” British writer C. S. Lewis said, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” For safety’s sake, integrity should always be at the front of our thinking whether we are driving or sharing the road as walkers, runners, bicyclists, with pets on leashes, and when using any non-motorized mode of transportation. Since emerging from pandemic sequestering, drivers in particular seem to be in a big hurry, sliding through stop signs and racing forward with a coffee cup or a cellphone in their hand. It is of the utmost importance for anyone on foot to be mindful of their surroundings at all times when sharing the road and to exercise good judgment, watching for distracted drivers who may not notice those big red octagons or the posted speed limit signs. Drivers and walkers all need to raise their level of concern for the safety of others. CFUSC’s Step Out St. Clair initiative has researched some important information to share.

Obviously, the consequence of any lapse in judgment regardless of your mode of transportation can endanger yourself and others.

When you were learning to drive and came to a stop sign, did anyone tell you to “Stop, Count to FIVE (1001-1002-1003-1004-1005) then Drive,” even when no other cars were coming? Then of course, there is the speed limit which is not merely a suggestion. Consider the common sense thinking of local government that led to the placement of those prominent signs to provide protection for the communityat-large.

Wise walkers and runners must take charge of their own destiny, leaving the headset at home and resisting the attempt to read texts or emails or even to talk on the phone while stepping out to exercise. It is of the utmost importance that while enjoying the fresh air, runners and walkers always walk on the left side of the street facing oncoming traffic. Common sense should also tell us that foot traffic should yield to the drivers of those very heavy vehicles!

Are you aware of these pedestrian laws found on the Upper St. Clair Township website?

Title 75 § 3544. Pedestrians walking along or on highway. (a) Mandatory use of available sidewalk: Where a sidewalk is provided and its use is practicable, it is unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway. (b) Absence of sidewalk: Where a sidewalk is not available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk only on a shoulder as far as practicable from the edge of the roadway. (c) Absence of sidewalk and shoulder: Where neither a sidewalk nor a shoulder is available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall walk as near as practicable to an outside edge of the roadway and, if on a two-way roadway, shall walk only on the left side of the roadway. (d) Right-of-way to vehicles: Except as otherwise provided in this sub-chapter, any pedestrian upon a roadway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway.

In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributed 3142 deaths to driving while distracted. A recent study showed that the average person takes their eyes off the road while driving for about 5 seconds when looking at a cell phone. A vehicle traveling at 40 MPH is going about 60 feet per second. In the 5 seconds that the person is looking at the phone, the vehicle has traveled the length of a football field.

Let’s all share the road in a safe and mindful manner, and model a strong example of integrity for younger members of our community.

Be Safe!

66

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Welcome to Gary Giallonardo The Community Foundation welcomes Gary to the Board. With a background in business development, marketing, sales, and strategic planning, he also has deep experience serving on boards of directors and boards of advisors for manufacturing companies. He and his wife, Catherine, are empty nesters with three children who have all completed at least one college degree. Gary enjoys walking and hiking, bicycling, and reading, and one of his passions is health and wellness for seniors. As a Pittsburgh native, Gary has been away in other cities for more than 40 years and is glad to be back.

Panther Blankets Are Back in Stock When the temperature drops, grab your double-sided, silky, plush Panther blanket to keep warm at sport events, to decorate a dorm room, or give as a gift, or to snuggle up with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate! You can place your order today by visiting https://www.cfusc.org where you can pay by credit card or by using PayPal, and the sales tax is included in the purchase price.

All purchases will be hand-delivered to Upper St. Clair residents

by Community Foundation Trustees. Your purchase will help the Foundation defray operating costs so that grants can continue to be available to residents to launch innovative projects and ideas throughout the community.

CFUSC Welcomes Horses with Hope to Gilfillan Farm

M

TE

S EST.

1993

EST.

rg

1993

CFUSC is grateful for the continuing support of the community.

Your donations enable us to continue to honor our mission to build a strong sense of community and to bring enrichment to our residents.

We were pleased to receive a request for funding from Horses with Hope for the building of a mounting block for riders with physical challenges. This grant request was a perfect fit with our Health focus area and helped to bring this amazing program right into our neighborhood. It created a “win-win” for the riders, for the horses, for the volunteers who participate, and for the communityat-large.

If you have a unique idea that cannot be funded with tax dollars, go to www.cfusc.org/grants where you can complete and submit an application. Through the years we have supported several hundred projects and events, and helped to advance many initiatives in the schools and the community. Internationally renowned performers have graced the stage in the High School theater, thousands of dollars worth of technology equipment have been provided for the schools, partnerships have been formed with many organizations, and many community initiatives have been launched and nurtured.

You can also visit www.cfusc.org/donate to make a donation using PayPal or your credit card. Checks can be made payable to the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and mailed to our office. Your donation will be tax deductible. If your work place has a matching fund program, we can work with you to document your donation, and it is also possible to set up a monthly donation program.

We are grateful to our donors and hope to add you to our list of people who make a difference as we continue to nurture opportunities in Upper St. Clair.

If you are interested in becoming a Trustee, the application is on our website, and if you have any questions about CFUSC, please feel free to reach out to any Trustee. Their email addresses are on the website.

Thanks again for making it possible for us to continue to bring enrichment to our residents.

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and is recognized by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Charitable Organization.

CFUSC ~ 2585 Washington Road # 131 ~ Pittsburgh, PA 15241 www.cfusc.org ~ 412-440-8464 Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

67

On Stage with Jim and Lanny Tune in to 15241 TODAY talk “On Stage with Jim and Lanny” to enjoy the half-hour broadcast that engages local celebrities and people with ties to USC. Through light-hearted, friendly conversations, the show is co-hosted by Jim Render and Lanny Frattare and aired on USC’s TV stations, Cable 7 and Verizon 42. The broadcast can also be viewed at any time using a computer or handheld device. Search YouTube for “Upper St. Clair Public Access Television” to choose the broadcast you’d like to watch, or visit USC Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) and click on USC Cable TV under the “Community” subhead to see the current program schedule. Links to all videos are also shared on Upper St. Clair School District’s athletic website (https://upperstclairathletics.com).

Listen to one entertaining hour with three of the most notable sports announcers in Pittsburgh. Jim and Lanny talk with Paul Alexander of KDKA Radio and 93.7 the Fan, Rob King of AT&T Sports, and Alby Oxenreiter of WPXI-TV. Find out how they each got started in their broadcasting careers, and enjoy the stories from their decades covering Pittsburgh sports. https://youtu.be/QYxyx3-Q_Z4

Pam Dillie

Christian Gmiter

Working in libraries for 27 years (and counting), Christian Gmiter, USC Township’s Director of Library, shares his love for his work and for sports. This Pitt graduate’s dream job was realized in April 2020 when he was named USC’s library director after the retirement of former director Helen Palaczak. https://youtu.be/PLnIH1xbYaA

Mel Blount

Mel Blount, the former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back, was so good that the rules were changed to give receivers a chance to compete. The National Football League Hall of Fame player was nicknamed “Sup” by his teammates, which was short for “Super.” In addition to a walk down memory lane, learn what Mel is doing today. https://youtu.be/6Opkgg6qMpU

Left to right: Paul Alexander, Rob King, Alby Oxenreiter

Dr. Jack Failla helped pioneer sports medicine. The founder of Tri-State Orthopedics and the orthopedic doctor of the Pittsburgh Pirates for two decades, Jack walks us through his early years revolutionizing the care of athletes. Listen as Jack shares his memories from his times with Willie Stargell, Jim Bibby, and Don Robinson. https://youtu.be/hUg3qTXKwNs Dr. Jack Failla

Hear stories told by Josh Matheny, USCHS Class of 2021. His swimming acumen started at a young age and led to his brush with fame at USA Olympic Swim Trials this past summer. Headed to Indiana University, Bloomington, this young man has a bright future and is grateful to those who helped get him where he is today, especially his family. https://youtu.be/od0r6sKstY0

Mike Junko, an Upper St. Clair graduate, was an outstanding quarterback for the Upper St. Clair Panthers, as well as the Akron Zips during his collegiate years. The head football coach at USC for two years, he is a rising star among the many new coaches in the WPIAL. https://youtu.be/chZzMZ0SvzU n

Josh Matheny

Mike Junko 68

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

A third-grade teacher at Baker Elementary and the School District’s elementary science curriculum leader, Pam Dillie was named the K-8 Science Education Award winner from the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh this past school year. A teacher for 34 years, learn what Pam has experienced over the years and how important she believes in-person learning is to our youth. (See related article on page 50.) https://youtu.be/VhNwGVaPuwQ

RENOVATED KITCHENS NEW, LUXURY AMENITIES Mention this ad and we will waive your administration and application fees* Expires 12/31/2021. Rents, fees, terms, and special offers subject

*

to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.

Upper St. Clair’s Best Kept Secret FOR APARTMENT LIVING !

Expires 4/30/2021. Rents, fees, terms, and special offers subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. *

2565 Boyce Plaza Rd, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.551.0520

EXPERIENCE MORE WITH MORGAN

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

69

A Winter Perspective We all know that photos help capture and preserve moments and memories. These two photos were taken last December after a winter storm blew through Upper St. Clair. n

Along the trails at Boyce Mayview Park, near the location of the former Outdoor Classroom site

USC’s Billings Drive

—Above photos courtesy of USC resident Paul Brown

Here We Go, Steelers!

The setting sun peaks out at a USC Steeler fan pregame gathering on Pittsburgh’s Northside.

The Steelers beat Seattle 23– 20 in overtime at the Sunday night game. Musical entertainment was provided by Rob Shogry, aka Nevin James, and his band.

70

My Journey Fiona Wang, USCHS Senior In movies, the pretty girl with the tiny waist always gets the boy. In books, the thin girl with arms and legs to match achieves her goal and has her happily-ever-after ending.

Like any adolescent, I wanted to meet my prince charming. I wanted to get swept off my feet and fall hopelessly in love. I wanted to achieve my athletic goals and be the fastest runner. I wanted to be happy. So, I thought if I was thin, happiness would follow.

I started comparing myself to those girls in the movies, or models on the runways, and even influencers on social media. I convinced myself that I was “too fat” and, therefore, unworthy of love, success, and ultimately, happiness.

Losing weight was easy. I started working out more and eating less. I began feeling worse.

The physical damage of not eating was obvious. Although knowing the damage I was doing to my body, I couldn’t stop. I was becoming addicted to being skinny. While this new lifestyle was bad for my body and my physical health, most importantly, it was detrimental to my mental health. Whenever I did eat some sort of food on a rare occasion, the guilt of consuming those “extra calories” began to eat me alive. Food was on my mind 24/7. I could focus on nothing else. A constant battle in my head, the debate was whether to eat or not to eat, as well as what to eat. The number on the scale kept going down. My body got thinner.

Never satisfied, I hoped for a lower number, a thinner waist, smaller legs, tinier arms.

I never ate enough; therefore, I never felt like I was enough. It was cliche, almost predictable, now that I look back. I started using laxatives, ironically because only a few months prior, I swore that I’d never use dietary pills. I reassured everyone, including myself, that I had it under control. My weight and physique were under control, but by a measure that I continually reset. Little did I know, I wasn’t the one controlling the decisions. My eating disorder was in charge. My mental illness was obvious. I finally accepted that I was anorexic.

Even with the diagnosis, I didn’t stop. I was worried that if I wasn’t ill, I would gain back tons of weight and lose my self-worth. I was worried about how people, and society in general, would view me. In a way, I didn’t think my anorexia was that bad. I didn’t feel ill enough. Once upon a time, I hoped for happiness, But, I ended up feeling miserable and sad.

I finally had had enough. I wanted change. Recovery is not easy, but deciding to start the journey is even harder. Looking back, it was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever encountered. Starting recovery means admitting you are ill and need help. I don’t recall a specific turning point. The recovery, like the illness, was gradual. But, during that process, I learned that I can’t live a full life on an empty stomach.

The choice to recover took courage. Noticing the weight gain from recovery, I often fall back and feel hopeless and overwhelmed. I realize that it’s silly because I was gaining the weight I was never meant to lose. Even now, eating regularly triggers anxiety. But, I know that any amount of food can never hurt me as much as my eating disorder. I began opening up and sharing my thoughts with supportive friends. It made the journey easier. I regret not doing it sooner.

Being vulnerable about mental illnesses, like admitting defeat, is scary. But, I didn’t wave my little white flag to anorexia. On the contrary, I started a war with my illness because I chose recovery. I chose to not be sick, but to be healthy. When I ripped off the “anorexic” label, I started to see things differently and feel calmer and more fulfilled. Even with a few relapses and defeats, I picked myself back up because the happiness of recovery is better. I gained personal freedom and control.

Before, anorexia controlled me and dominated my emotions, feelings, thoughts, values, and body. It was never my decision to purposely miss meals, over-exercise, deprive my body of needed nutrients, convince myself that I am not worthy, isolate myself from friends and family, mentally drain myself. It was never my decision to do any of these things.

It took a long time for me to realize that thin does not equal beauty, and beauty has nothing to do with happiness. Looking back at old pictures, I looked sick, not pretty. Looking in the mirror now, although still very challenging, I see myself as beautiful and healthy.

Life is so much more than a number on a scale. It is so much more than the size of your jeans or the measurement of your waist. Life is about enjoying pasta dinner with teammates or going on random coffee runs with friends. It is about having popcorn on movie nights. Life is about being happy for who you are, not the illusion of what a particular size can bring you.

I promise that you are more than enough just as you are. n

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Fiona Wang, a USCHS senior, is a member of the school’s track and field team.

Winter 2021

G’s Landscape & Supply LLC Residential ■ Commercial

Satisfaction Guaranteed | Competitive Pricing Free Estimates | Fully Insured

412.726.0035

www.gslandscapellc.com

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

Air Duct Cleaning by Bactronix Are You Experiencing Excessive Dust, Odors, Mold or Allergy Symptoms in Your Home or Work Place?

Have Your Home or Business Air Ducts Bactronized TODAY!

Before After

412-375-7886 www.bactronix.com

• Dryer Vent Cleaning • Allergen Removal • Odor Removal •Eco Responsible Disinfection • Before & After Photos • One Year Warranty.

COUPON $75

OFF

ANY SERVICE

1

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

2

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

Copyright © 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

+ FREE

Exclusive two step disinfecting & deodorizing process!

Includes a one-year warranty against mold, mildew, and fungus. ©2020 Google LLC All rights reserved. Google and the Google Logo are registered trademarks of Google LLC

Offer may not be combined with BBB

ACCREDITED BUSINESS

BBB Rating: A+

Winter 2021

Guaranteed Upfront Pricing

any other offer or promotion.

Must mention code: USC-1 Expires 12/31/21

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

71

A Time Line of Upper St. Clair (1736–1945) 1736–1818 Arthur St. Clair— The Township was given his name.

1794 The Higbee School was the first school house west of the Alleghenies. The school was located on the Higby Farm on Upper Road.

1830 The Log House was built for farm hands but called home by many.

1783 Alexander Gilfillan’s log cabin (photo by Margaret Smith Furen in 1893).

Gilfillan owned 400 acres called Cato.

1736

1871 The Boyce Railroad was the first railroad to the Township.

1783 1762

1794 1788

1839 The Township was divided into Upper and Lower St. Clair.

1830 1806

1839 1834

1871 1859

1859 The Township had nine school houses costing a total of $600.

1806 The Seegar House is the oldest house in Upper St. Clair.

1762 John Fife’s well (Cauld Well—cauld in Scotch means cold). John Fife is the first known settler. He claimed 1000 acres called Cremona.

1788 Allegheny County was formed and St. Clair was one of the seven Townships formed in the new county.

72

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1794 Fort Couch was the site of the last of the Indian raids after the Battle of Fallen Timbers.

Winter 2021

1834 This one-room public school house cost only $200 to build.

1898 Route 19 was first paved from Mt. Lebanon to Clifton.

1908 The Washington Interurban streetcar line was built, providing hourly transportation to and from Pittsburgh.

1939 Jack Klancher was Upper St. Clair’s first policeman.

1912 The Clifton Ladies Social Club visited the Heinz Company. The Clifton Ladies Social Club is now named the Upper St. Clair Woman’s Club.

1901 RFD (rural-free delivery) began from Bridgeville.

Web Connor was the Upper St. Clair mailman.

1898 1880

1901 1900

1900 There were six post offices in Upper St. Clair.

1908 1904

1912 1910

1939 1913

1945

1910 The present Bethel Presbyterian Church was built under Pastor Dr. Cornelius Wycoff (1873–1913), The church was founded by Rev. John McMillan in 1776.

1913 Brookside Farms was the first real estate development in Upper St. Clair.

1880 Thomas Beadling and Sons opened coal mines and Walt’s Tavern.

1945 The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department purchased its first fire engine.

1904 The first telephone was in the General Store at Clifton.

—Thank you to Carolyn Jones Friedrich, historian for the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair, for compiling the photos and information.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

73

Profiles

of people with a USC connection

Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or

usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Lily (Olsakovsky) Bamberger, USCHS Class of 2013, started her own business this past year called Oak and Rose, a company that curates products and goods “Made in the USA” by American small businesses. Starting the company early in 2021 after seeing so many small businesses struggle due to COVID-19 shutdowns, Lily was inspired by the way that Americans came together amidst the challenges to support businesses in local communities.

“From Small Business Saturdays to ordering out from local restaurants, our personal decisions to support the families in our own communities made a noticeable impact on those businesses and their owners,” said Lily.

Continuing the support beyond 2020 is what Oak and Rose is all about. Oak and Rose sends six to eight full-sized items to your door from the small business partners that they feature each season.

Lily’s appreciation for community began while growing up in Upper St. Clair, where she was involved in the USCHS music department and swimming and diving team. In 2017, she graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with Lily Bamberger, owner, a BA in vocal performance and minor in business Oak and Rose administration. Through interactions with mentors, teachers, and peers, she developed the foundational principles that are now the pillar of her business; the most important being strong community relationships.

After graduating from CMU and living out of state for a few years, she moved back to the area to grow her roots with her family, her husband, Ben, and puppy, Bondi. The Bambergers are expecting a baby this coming January.

My Pop Up Party was a long burning dream that became a reality in late 2020. Gina Harris and Juliana (Jules) Scorsone met in 2016 when they bought houses just two blocks from one another. On their very first meeting, they discovered that they share a mutual love of hosting, design, and event styling, and have since been inseparable! After spending two years co-chairing as event coordinators for the USC Newcomers Club, the perfectionist duo decided to leave the corporate world behind and pursue their self-made dreams.

In search of a more creative outlet, they decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship and My Pop Up Party was born. As moms themselves, they understand the pressure to throw a perfect party, but can relate to not having the time or energy to fully execute one.

Gina and Jules are always dreaming up new ways to bring your party to the next level, while making the day as Pinterest-perfect as your dreams. At the heart of this duo remains a shared belief that a beautifully executed vision can transform any celebration.

The journey to My Pop Up Party has been exhilarating and fulfilling and one they are truly grateful for.

Left to right: USC residents Juliana Scorsone, Gina Harris; My Pop Up Party owners/party stylists

For more information on Oak and Rose, visit https://oakandrose.us/ or @oakandrose.us on Instagram.

The Power of Music and Early Ear Training

Martina Caruso, Co-Owner, Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh We hear quotes about the power of music every day.

Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.—Plato Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.—Victor Hugo Life seems to go on without effort when I am filled with music.

—George Eliot And, the list goes on. But, how many of these quotes hold true, and how many of them are simply opinion? I suppose that is up to the reader to decide. What we do know, however, is that there has been extensive research to prove the benefits of music on the brain, especially when consumed in our early childhood years. Let’s dive in.

Music and language. We all want our children to excel in reading.

Studies have shown that for young children, music directly benefits their ability to learn words, speak them correctly, and process different types of sounds. This is because music education emphasizes the recognition and repetition of pitch, tone, and words themselves. It’s just like learning a new language. The younger you are when you begin, the more fluent you will become into adulthood.

Music and mathematics. After language comes a desire for our children to be proficient in mathematics. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) advocates for math learning in contexts that 74

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

simultaneously support other types of thinking, such as music. It’s no wonder! Just like the lingual benefits music provides, music improves mathematical understanding in the realms of spatial awareness, pattern recognition, counting by rote, and more.

Music and brain function. Perhaps the most impressive benefit music provides our children is its effect on brain functions required to process situations and find solutions. Musicians need to be proficient in sight-reading, instrumental manipulation, and lyric memorization.

These skills directly correlate to enhanced memory and mental processing functions of the brain. A recent study conducted by ScienceDirect confirmed that musicians outperform non-musicians on tests of auditory, visual, and executive memory skills. Musicians are also found to have higher levels of grey matter in their brains, which is directly tied to their auditory processing and comprehension.

In conclusion. Language, math, and brain function are enhanced through musical training. The list of benefits is much longer, however.

Music benefits study skills, motor skills, social skills, team building skills, hand-eye coordination, and more. Whether the goal of your child’s music education is to have them become the next Mozart or simply for them to have fun, music provides benefits far beyond what the ear hears.

And, so, I end with one final quote on which, I think, we can all agree.

Without music, life would be a mistake.—Friedrich Nietzsche n See ad for Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh on page 23.

WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING Over 20 Years Experience

Dependable Service ♦ Reasonable Rates • Window Cleaning (Interior/exterior) • Gutter Cleaning • Pressure Washing • Snowplowing • Landscaping FULLY INSURED ♦ FREE ESTIMATES

412-726-0035 www.gslandscapellc.com

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

75

NFL Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony The induction of Donny Shell, Troy Polamalu, and Bill Cowher on August 7 into the 2020 NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, along with 17 others, held excitement for Steeler Nation. Listening to their acceptance speeches, Troy’s words were especially remarkable. If athletes can be role models, Troy is that athlete. His words, his character, and his dedication are things that will inspire many future generations. On the following day, Steeler Alan Faneca was inducted into the 2021 Hall of Fame, along with seven others. n

In the distance is former Steelers coach Bill Cowher, walking to the ceremony venue

Instructions for Traveling with TODAY Read the following criteria to find out how to submit information.

• Clear, close-up digital photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine.

• Attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email.

• List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location, and objective of visit (leisure, volunteer, career, etc.) or stay-athome project.

• Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary.

• Email information to usctoday@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.

The replica of a fenced-in area that housed supplies

Enjoying the event and waiving terrible towels are USC graduates Joey DeGiornio and Graham Gillen

Lessons in History and Outdoor Pleasures A day trip south of Pittsburgh on Route 40 has a lot to offer. Fort Necessity, in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, shares a lesson about the French and Indian War. History buffs can learn about British Lt. Col. George Washington’s journey through the Laurel Highlands and the building of Fort Necessity, all which began his exemplary military leadership. On July 4, 1754, after one day of battle, Washington admits his only military surrender to the French, and buries General Edward Braddock’s body five days later near the fort.

With the fort being burned to the ground shortly after the battle, standing today is a replica of the fenced-in area that housed supplies and where docents and re-enactors invite visitors to learn about Pennsylvania’s significance in shaping the United States of America.

Continuing on to Ohiopyle, whitewater rafters, mountain bikers, walkers, and picnickers were engaged in all sorts of outdoor pleasures. A history lesson continued about the mid-1970s French and Indian War in this particular area, as well as the Whiskey Rebellion in the early 1790s. n A view of the Youghiogheny River

76

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Montreal offers visitors an exceptional variety of experiences, including Old Montreal

Enjoying an early morning tour of the backside of Saratoga Springs racetrack

Travel to the Eastern U.S. and Canada Offers Variety

Miracle on Ice in Lake Placid

TODAY traveled east and north by car for a twoDowntown Stowe week late summer respite. Starting in the quaint town of Saratoga Springs, New York, to enjoy the well-known Travers Stakes race, the next stops were to Stowe and Burlington, Vermont, for outdoor adventure and visits to breweries and distilleries, among them: Mad River Distillers. With required medical clearances, TODAY then crossed the Canadian border at Rouses Point, New York, and headed to the more cosmopolitan surroundings of Montreal. Walking Old Town Montreal in search of libations and shopping TODAY passed the b e a u t i f u l N o t re Dame Basilica and then headed further north to visit the location of the 1976 Summer Olympics, as well as the hipster area of Le Plateau.

Coming back into the U.S., TODAY traveled to Lake Placid, New York, the spot where the 1938 and 1980 Winter Olympics took place, a mere 110 miles south of Montreal. Some areas of the village were under construction, as the town is readying to host the 2023 Winter University Games.

Choosing a hotel on the perimeter of Mirror Lake in the midst of downtown Lake Placid, where paddle boarding and kayaking are plentiful, the Mad River Distillers’ operation fresh air and beauty of the Adirondack Mountains center, Warren, Vermont was exhilarating.

The pleasure trip concluded with a stop to Bethany Beach, where toes are in the sand and gazing at the Atlantic Ocean for one last summer day was truly a trip complete. n

The Miracle on Ice is the single greatest and most iconic sports moment in the history of the United States. Americans were enduring some dark times leading up to the Olympic Games, and had no reason to feel proud to be Americans. Many Americans ashamedly felt the betrayal of the Watergate Scandal; the Iranian Revolution had caused a crushing oil crisis; and Americans were being held hostage in Iran and had been up to that point for more than two months.

Additionally, the Soviets had invaded Afghanistan on Christmas Eve, just one month ahead of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York.

On February 22, 1980, a sporting event, a simple hockey game, gave hope to our nation and gave U.S. citizens something to rally behind. Under Olympic hockey head coach Herb Brooks (and a Pittsburgh Penguins coach after that), a bunch of young college kids upset the four-time defending gold medalist and heavily favored Soviet Union team 4–3. This sent the Americans to the gold medal game, which they would eventually win. By defeating the long-standing Soviet rival, it inspired millions and showed that even when times are tough and the U.S. is the underdog, together we can (and should) battle through it. n

Heading to the beach at Bethany

Housed in the Lake Placid Olympic Ice Arena is the original dasher board and hockey net used in the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. Goalie Jim Craig had 39 saves in the semifinal game against the heavily favored Soviet Union.

Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid, the location of the 1980 Olympic downhill skiing events

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

77

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

Over 30 years in business!

412-720-5189

Creating beautiful outdoor living spaces

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

Happening.

Or Not. The Labouré Ladies Guild (fka the DeMarillac Guild of St. Louise de Marillac Parish) will hold its annual Joy of Christmas craft show, with 121 crafters and a Chinese auction. Due to the order of the USC fire marshal, strollers are not permitted.

Date: Saturday, November 20, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Location: St. Louise de Marillac School/LeGras Parish Center, 320 McMurray Road, USC Admission fee: $2, includes a ticket for the Chinese auction The USC Class of 1971 50th reunion, originally scheduled for October 1–2, 2021, has been postponed until October 2022 due to the safety concern for attendees surrounding the continued COVID situation at the time of the originally scheduled event.

Look for further details in a coming issue of TODAY or contact the reunion committee at usc1971pa@gmail.com.

Information can also be found on USC School District’s alumni website at https://www.connect2uscsd.com/e/class-of-197150-year-reunion/.

Winter Celebration, Naturally George Girty, Owner, George Girty Landscape Design I don’t know of too many houses in my neighborhood that do not decorate for fall. I see baskets of mums on doorsteps, hay bales covered with gourds and Indian corn. There are corn stalks on lampposts, scarecrows in yards, and, of course, pumpkins. Lots and lots of pumpkins.

I like this natural approach to decorating. To me, it’s not about Halloween, but more about recognition of our timehonored connection to the harvest season.

All cultures stop and give thanks for their harvest bounty. Even the full moon at this time of year is appropriately called the Harvest moon.

The question is, how can we fill our homes and lives with the spirit of winter, naturally? The winter holiday season is marked with a special significance.

78

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Whether Hannukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Sparkle Season, the winter holiday season is filled with festivities and family memories. Natural decorating isn’t about being crafty, it’s about recognizing the beauty that is all around us. I often set out cut evergreen trees in my yard.

They can be decorated with strings of cranberries and popcorn that the birds find irresistible. Moss and lichens can add the finishing touch to decorations.

It’s nearly impossible to walk through a wooded lot and not see the bright orange and red berries of the Oriental Bittersweet vine. They are ideal to weave and twist into wreaths or garland. As an invasive species, you’re providing a service by protecting our native flora by removing the invasive Bitterweet. I also cut boughs of fir and Winter 2021

pine and drape them on my shelves and mantle. The fragrance is far more delightful than anything out of a spray can. I also cut branches from my Holly trees and bushes.

Their dark leaves and bright berries bring a touch of joy into my home. Birch logs and branches, with their shocking white bark, can be used for decorating, as well.

Dried flowers, grapevines, branches, and bark are just some of the natural items we have at our disposal to help us celebrate the winter season. More often than not, the simplest of things collected by my family from a walk in the woods create a more lasting and special memory. n See ad for George Girty Landscape Design on this page.

Hundreds of expert doctors.

All here for you.

Dayle B. Griffin, M.D.

You deserve patient-first care. That’s what you get when world-class doctors don’t just treat the thing you have. They treat you.

All of you. The part of you that needs a little extra hand-holding. That part that needs to hear the plan one more time. That’s what you get here, because we don’t just care for you, we care about you.

stclair.org

Expert care from people who care.

Winter 2021

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

79

Advertiser Index

Winter 2021

www.twpusc.org/usctoday

Advanced Surgical Hospital .................................................................... 17

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

Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ....................................................................... 69

* Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ...................................... 63

Affordable Decks & Additions .................................................................. 75 Ardolino’s ...................................................................................................9 Asbury Heights ....................................................................................... 60 Bactronix Corp. ........................................................................................ 71 Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh .................................................................. 23

* Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South .... 3 * Brookside Lumber ................................................................................... 71 Burn Bootcamp–McMurray ..................................................................... 17 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service ..................................................................... 71 Children’s Music Academy of Greater Pittsburgh .................................... 23 Clubhouse Cards ..................................................................................... 21 * Coldwell Banker Realty–Lynn Dempsey .................................................. 63 Coldwell Banker Realty–Dora Rudick ...................................................... 61

* Coldwell Banker Realty–South Hills Office .....................Outside back cover Cookie Cutters ......................................................................................... 53

J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ........................ 37 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ........................................................ 45 Lewis Music Studio ................................................................................. 25 * Manalo, Larry E., DMD ............................................................................ 45 Mister Sewer ........................................................................................... 39 Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................... 75 * Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center .............................................................. 19 Movement Mortgage–Kevin O’Laughlin ................................................. 61 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ............................................................ 45 * Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community .......................... 63 * Rusmur Floors .................................................................. Inside back cover

* St. Clair Health .....................................................................................5, 79 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .................................................................9 * Sesame Inn ............................................................................................. 25 South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1

Partnering with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY has been a great return on investment and a fantastic way for me to reach out to our community regarding what is happening in our local real estate market.­—Dora Rudick, Coldwell Banker Realty

* Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................. 53 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 75 * Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 55 G’s Landscape & Supply LLC .................................................................... 71 G’s Window and Gutter Cleaning ............................................................ 75 George Girty Landscape Design .............................................................. 78 Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing, Heating & Cooling .................................. 41

Hastings South Fayette–Charter Homes & Neighborhoods .......................2 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ............................................................... 55

Let guide you in 2022 with great ad placement.

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

* State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ....................................................... 61 The Dance Conservatory of Pittsburgh .................................................... 51 * Thomas Dance Studio ............................................................................. 55 Torrente Apartment Homes ..................................................................... 69 Troy Orthodontics .................................................................................... 45 * Washington Health System .................................................................... 57 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ............................ 31 Welter, Julie, Realtor® ............................................................................. 51

Place your ad in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our communityʼs go-to publication.

Contact 412-833-1600, x2284.

Look Ahead with Us

Spring guides include *The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, Celebration, Home have contributed their financial support for a minimum of 54 issues.

Improvement, and Pet Care.

Thank you!

412-833-1600 x 2284 | usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us | www.twpusc.org/usctoday

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair 80

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2021

Presort STD US Postage PAID Permit # 206 Pittsburgh PA

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

W e

Shannon Briggs

Lynn Dempsey

John Geisler

M o v e

u p p e r

Ron Graf

Florine Kelly

s t .

c l a i r

Kathi Kernan

Maria Lane

Kim Lanphear

Julie Leslie

Sandi Ricci

Rachael Richard

Jen Sowers

Brad Templeton

Mary Ann Wellener

Faith Williard

NEW NAME. SAME EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. Heather Linz

Rachel Mazzie

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services is proud to announce a rebrand to Coldwell Banker Realty.

Dora Rudick

Kathy Sekeras

Carmela Viviano

Jim Walsh

While the name may be new, one important thing remains the same – the exceptional customer service we have provided longer than any other national real estate brand. Since 1906, like a shining star we have guided people to that special place called home.

Peters Township Office | 724.942.1200

NMLS ID 1598647

Jane York

Milo Hindman Manager

Suzanne Lorenzi Sala

Bonnie Loya

Monica Mahla

Suzy Stauffer

ColdwellBankerHomes.com/southhills South Hills Office | 1630 Washington Road | Pittsburgh, PA 15241 | 412.833.5405 Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 21VKB6_PIT_9/21 ®