WINTER 2012 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

USC Doctors are Committed to Women’s Healthcare www.twpusc.org/magazine

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

More than a great home. A great way of life.

If you’re looking for the home you’ve always dreamed of and the neighborhood you’ve always desired, come see Newbury. Start building lifelong memories today. Call Kelly Smith at (412) 680-5200, email her at homes@newburymarket.com or visit us at newburymarket.com.

Anthony Colatrella, MD • David Glorioso, MD • David Limauro, MD • Mark Cedar, DO • Nicholas Bellicini, DO • Lisa Oliva, DO • Xuong Lu, MD

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“Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life.”

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412.232.8104 1350 Locust Street, Ste. 406 Pittsburgh, PA 15219

You can

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What did you think our senior living community was? You think it’s for old people? For failing health? For sitting around? Boy, you’re missing the boat. People grow here. They get out, explore, have more experiences. Rich friendships, travel, golf, bridge, culture. They live the rest of their lives, the part in between retiring and the point where life insurance pays off. In between: That’s where the good stuff is. That’s where you grow. Friendship Village of South Hills. Call 1.800.914.8117 and start the adventure.

1290 Boyce Road • Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 www.friendshipvillagepa.com 2

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

Friendship Village of South Hills is one of only 15% of communities nationwide accredited for quality practices in administration, finance, care and services to residents.

EXPERT CARE. EALING TOUCH.

Breast surgeon Raye J. Budway, M.D. (at left) with her patients, Lori Hawthorne, Cindy Bartram and Linda Russell.

Three sisters turn to Dr. Budway for expert care.

Faced with a family history of breast cancer, these sisters sought out one of the region’s leading breast surgeons for precise treatment for their individual needs. Raye J. Budway, M.D. and the St. Clair Hospital Breast Care Center’s team of diagnostic radiologists, surgeons and nurse navigators are helping guide them every step of the way. From consultation to screening, diagnostic mammograms, breast MRIs, biopsies and treatment, Lori, Cindy and Linda are receiving expert care with a healing touch — all within a warm, comfortable environment at the St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center–Village Square in Bethel Park. As one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals, St. Clair continues to invest in leading physicians, technologies and processes to deliver superior care.

ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL OUTPATIENT CENTER –VILLAGE SQUARE . 2000 OXFORD DRIVE . BETHEL PARK, PA 15102 . 412.942.3177 . WWW.STCLAIR.ORG

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

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

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Winter 2012

Renewing O

ld Friendsh

ips

Volume 18

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Issue 4

Features and Around the Township 14 From “S” to “T”— Doors of USC

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22

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Displayed in holiday fashion are the doors of USC’s “T” streets.

Pining For the Perfect Christmas Tree Jim O’Brien recollects years past looking for that perfect tree.

Four of the Best-kept Secrets of the South Hills Read this author’s list of local secrets to uncover.

I Even Walked On Water On land and at sea, Diane Morris has put on the miles for a healthy lifestyle.

Putting a Face on Africa Continues “We will return” was the promise… and they did.

School District 32 Customizing Learning in USCSD

Student Lea

dership Aca

demies

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The world is vastly different from when the structure of public schooling was conceived and developed.

New Faces of World Language Students are choosing more language classes at USC. Read to find out why.

Confessions of a Volleyball Mom USCHS Girls Volleyball, as told through the eyes of a seasoned sports mom.

Panic at the Point!

Hands-on STEM workshop provides technology-driven opportunities for USC students.

Township 47 Boyce Mayview Park Map

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Be a Library

FRIEND

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Use this complimentary copy of the park’s updated map when you walk the walk.

Dear Librarian A Kids Department feature, this edition answers a question about reading comprehension.

Meeting the Challenge Training at the C&RC helps a member to participate (and finish) in an athletic adventure.

Winter Storm Emergencies Follow these Township guidelines to know what to do in a winter storm emergency.

Guides 26 Holidays… a Time for Giving 42 Pinebridge Commons 64 Life Planning

52 C O V E R

USC Photo Ops 10 Community Foundation’s Movie Night 70 “Around the Township”

It’s All Abo

ut Balance

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Shown on the front cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY are Robert C. Rankin, MD and Sandor Mecs, MD, physicians at South Hills OBGYN Associates. Standing at the main entrance to St. Clair Memorial Hospital, the doctors’ feature article can be found on pages 12 and 13, which describes their practice of providing healthcare to women in the South Hills in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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-Winn

i

18 Years

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Aw

rd a

Community Service

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit community magazine that is dedicated to promoting the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts and contributions of the people who live and work here.

This year, we celebrate 18 years of publication.

The award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair Publishers Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager Paul K. Fox, School District Representative Editors and Staff Linda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish, Associate Editor Colleen DeMarco, Office Manager Lynn Dempsey, Advertising Associate Erin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate Alison Hess, Advertising Associate Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue: Erin Gibson Allen, Cindy Brophy, Judith Bulazo, Lisa Clark, Cathy Davin, Dina Fulmer, Deborah Lynn Hanna, Steve Hannan, Heather Holtschlag, Dr. Natalie Furgiuele-Iracki, Patricia John, Fran Joyce, Jessica Kester, Dr. Mary Parks Lamb, Barbara Lloyd, Jim Meston, Diane Morris, Jim O’Brien, Dr. Eric Reitz, Debbie Reynolds, Julia Sawmelle, Mary Lynne Spazok, Patrick Tolan, Beth Troy, Emerald VanBuskirk, Marilyn Walsh, Amy Guarino Yadouga, and Elsa Zollars.

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District to provide articles of interest for this community magazine.

Email usctoday@uscsc.k12.pa.us to find out how your student can contribute.

The 72nd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. © Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.

staff members celebrate 18 years of publication.

Left to right are Dorothy Clark, Erin Allen, Terry Kish, Linda Dudzinski, Paul Fox, Colleen DeMarco, and Alison Hess. Missing are Lynn Dempsey and Mark Mansfield.

The 72 nd issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the combined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

Board of School Directors

Township Board of Commissioners

Rebecca A. Stern, President Barbara L. Bolas, Vice President Amy L. Billerbeck Buffy Z. Hasco Frank J. Kerber Harry F. Kunselman Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Louis M. Oliverio Angela B. Petersen

Robert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3 Russell R. Del Re, Vice President, Ward 5 Nicholas J. Seitanakis, Ward 1 Donald P. Rectenwald, Jr., Ward 2 Mark D. Christie, Ward 4 Glenn R. Dandoy, At Large Daniel R. Paoly, At Large

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY steering committee and

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

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

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

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

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be the spring 2013 issue and will be published in March 2013. Articles that were submitted but not published in this issue are on file for consideration in upcoming issues. Articles and announcements may be sent to:

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

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

Spring 2013 edition deadlines: Articles—January 10 Advertising—January 18

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284 Fax: 412-851-2592 Email: usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us Township­: 412-831-9000 School District: 412-833-1600 Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc. 1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268 Design by DMC Design 412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com 6

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Website www.twpusc.org/magazine

Email usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us

For the convenience of smart phone users, visit our website by using TODAY’s QR code shown above.

Winter 2012

... meeting your needs TODAY, Tomorrow, and into the Future.

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The Bank of Choice in the South Hills Choice. We offer accounts for every lifestyle and life stage. From truly free checking to interest checking and personal savings, Brentwood Bank offers you the right choice.

Since 1922, we have offered more choices in ďŹ nancial products and services — with a personal touch.

Brentwood Bank. The Bank of Choice for personal accounts in the South Hills.

To learn more, call 412-409-9000 or visit BrentwoodBank.com

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole

Matthew R. Serakowski

Hello and welcome to the winter 2012 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our 72nd edition.

As we get ready for the coming of winter, we embrace southwestern Pennsylvania’s continual change of season. We love it here for that reason and take advantage of what it offers. Each season, like time, does not stand still.

The School District of Upper St. Clair understands that the learning process does not stand still and that learning strategies change over time. The District responds to and anticipates changes and continually searches for the best structure and learning environment for our public education system. Enjoy reading the forward thinking articles about “Customizing Learning in USCSD” on page 32 and “New Faces of World Language” on page 37. Other articles within the School District section can be found on pages 30 to 41.

The Township of Upper St. Clair is responsive to the needs of its citizens, regardless of the season.

Featured in this section are articles from the Township Library (pages 48-51), the C&RC (pages 54-55), and the United Senior Citizens of USC (pages 56-57). The Outdoor Classroom keeps us in balance with the article “It’s All About Balance” on page 52 and we can find out how to prepare for winter storm emergencies by reading an article on page 58. Other articles within the Township section can be found on pages 44 to 61.

We have lots of feature stories in this edition to satisfy your reading pleasure. Some of them reflect upon past remembrances, including “Renewing Old Friendships” on page 20, while some anticipate adventures that tomorrow may bring, including “Four of the Best-kept Secrets of the South Hills” on page 18. Read them all while searching for a picture of someone you may know in our “Photo Ops” highlights on pages 10, 11, and 70.

As we wrap up 2012, this letter concludes with two simple thoughts—share your talents and be thankful. Let these simple, good-hearted thoughts invoke positive action and provide reflection as we close yet another year.

Lastly, we would like to share the following note from the staff at TODAY. In place to support our School District and Township, the TODAY staff welcomes you to share your stories with us because we know that your contributions make this magazine what it is: all about our community!

Happy New Year from UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Magazine As the year comes to a close, we have taken some time to reflect on what matters most to us here at UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine. Working together for the good of our community, helping people, and standing by our

commitment to produce a fair and honest magazine—these are some of the things that matter most to us.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work with you as we do what we love—connect Upper St. Clair to our residents, our neighbors, and the world! We look forward to even better connections in 2013!

With sincere thanks from the staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, Linda Dudzinski, Terry Kish, Colleen DeMarco, Lynn Dempsey, Erin Gibson Allen, Alison Hess, and Dorothy Clark

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Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools

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

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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

Early detection saves lives.

Ellen Tabor, MD Radiologist, Breast Imaging William Poller, MD Radiologist, Breast Imaging

West Penn Allegheny Health System offers compassionate, comprehensive care through our regional network of convenient, comfortable breast imaging centers. Each center has full-field digital mammography, the option for same-day biopsy, qualified breast imagers, breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and nurse navigators on site.

Early detection saves thousands of lives each year. Don’t wait.

Schedule your screening mammogram today.

When doctors lead, better care follows – call 412.DOCTORS (362.8677).

wpahs.org

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

For the names and comments made by these USC residents, go to www.cfusc.org

YOU

make all things possible, such as . . . . . . the annual Family Movie Night which has become a USC tradition, free to attendees, but paid for by your contribution dollars. . . . support for the Bounty of Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest, last year’s horse & buggy and festival music were provided by your contribution dollars. . . . seminars, such as “Are Your Children Safe in Cyberspace” featuring FBI “Cyber Squad” agents, were sponsored by your contribution dollars. . . . . . . the SPYRO GYRA concert on the USC Theater stage, enjoyed by several generations of fans, and underwritten by your contribution dollars. . . . the administration of six College Scholarship funds that provide opportunities to USC students is facilitated by your contribution dollars.

Visit www.cfusc.org to discover what else is funded by your contribution dollars!

The CF Annual Solicitation request is coming soon. Please consider making a tax deductible donation of any amount. Your generosity will be appreciated and used to further enhance Upper St. Clair as a special place in which to live.

Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

2585 Washington Road, Suite 131 ~ Pittsburgh, PA 15241 412-831-1107 • mainstreetusc@gmail.com • www.cfusc.org Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Changing Challenges in Women’s Healthcare South Hills OBGYN Associates has been providing healthcare to women of the South Hills since 1978. Preventative gynecologic care as well as corrective surgery and obstetrical care keep its two doctors and staff of 12 quite busy.

Dr. Robert Rankin has been with South Hills OBGYN since 1981 and Dr. Sandor Mecs joined him this past July.

Both long time residents of Upper St. Clair, the doctors have each educated their children using the Upper St. Clair school system.

Dr. Mecs has one child who is still enrolled at USC High School.

Both physicians primarily operate out of St. Clair Hospital, but also use Mercy and Magee Women’s Hospitals.

The medical staff includes two registered nurses, two medical assistants, and a certified nurse’s assistant. One call nurse spends her day answering patient questions and contacting insurance companies and pharmacies, both by phone and online.

In their combined 60 years of practicing medicine, Drs. Rankin and Mecs have seen many changes and improvements in obstetrical and gynecologic care. The two biggest changes have been the increase of information now available to women about their healthcare and how important a patient’s personal health history has become.

Women typically play the role of primary caregiver and want to know and be informed about all the medical care required for themselves and for their family members. Although they often place their own health second to that of their family members, women generally make good patients and are attentive and receptive to new information about healthcare.

The most obvious informational change over the past 35 years is the introduction and use of electronic health records.

To remain up-to-date with this technology, South Hills OBGYN Associates is implementing computerized health records for all of its patients. If a patient has a diagnostic test, copies of the results are automatically sent to all of her relevant physicians.

Ashley, a DXA technician, demonstrates the DXA machine on Maria, a billing specialist.

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Winter 2012

While the process is not universal and may take up to 20 more years to be fully implemented across all spectrums of medical care, the use of electronic health records has made a difference in the amount of information that doctors have about a patient before they see her at a visit or checkup.

For example, if one of our elderly patients has developed diabetes, there is a chance that her lab results are in her gynecologic chart, even though she has not been seen by one of our doctors for this condition. At some future point, it is quite possible and logical that each person will have one chart stored electronically at one location, which would be accessible to all healthcare providers.

Crucial to electronic health records in the patient portal. The government-approved portal available at South Hills OBGYN Associates, via www.shobgyn.com, is a secure way to send and receive patient health information.

Technological advances in genetic analysis have made a patient’s family history more useful and of greater importance to her health management. If a patient has a chance of being predisposed to an inherited cancer due to family history that genetic testing might reveal, the patient is counseled for testing options as well as preventive treatment options. Genetic analysis is very relevant to our patients who have concerns with breast cancer and ovarian cancer, and for those who are pregnant.

In the past, a patient’s family history was reviewed and considered, but recent medical discoveries have identified the importance of the genetic relationship of a patient’s family history to developing cancer. And while ovarian cancer is difficult to diagnose, there is an established connection between breast cancer and ovarian cancer if certain gene mutations are present.

Explaining these relationships to our patients has become a standard practice at South Hills OBGYN Associates.

Women today get their information and learn about health management choices from many different sources, some more reliable than others. The President of the United States has told women on national television how often they should have a pap smear. Insurance companies send letters to their patients and physicians about testing they would like the patient to undergo, whether or not a patient’s physician thinks it is a good idea. It is great that patients ask a wide variety of questions.

And while it may take time to accurately address and answer a patient’s questions about healthcare topics covered in the news or from other sources, it is good that there is an increased level of awareness regarding preventive care because of heightened media attention.

A change in preventive care for all patients is the wide range of available vaccinations that are now offered in doctors’ offices. South Hills OBGYN Associates offers the HPV vaccine, DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) for pregnant mothers and expectant fathers and grandparents. Also, we stock the shingles and hepatitis vaccines for the convenience of

Sarah (left), a billing specialist, and Rhonda, South Hills OBGYN phone nurse, discuss the day.

our patients. And to help our patients, we provide information about special medicines and vaccines for those traveling to exotic destinations.

Another new discussion in the gynecologist’s office is the trend towards certain social behaviors that may lead to bad health results. Young women are visiting gynecologists at earlier ages due to the need for cycle management for female athletes and also for the social phenomenon of increased sexual activity with random partners. STDs are of epidemic proportion on college campuses. While there are antibiotics for historical STDs, there are other sexually transmitted diseases that have no formal cure and, left untreated, can lead to cancer. Preventive measures, including the HPV vaccine, have led to controversy.

Younger women ask more questions about eating habits and exercise. Insurance companies have collected data that clearly shows smoking causes more health issues. Doctors are pressured by insurance companies to inform their patients about smoking cessation and weight loss. At South Hills OBGYN Associates we believe that information is power, so it is worth taking the time to educate our patients on all of these important issues.

Three big changes in pregnancy care include the emphasis on weight loss between pregnancies, the amount of exercise pregnant women should do, and testing for genetic abnormalities. While some women are uncomfortable discussing weight issues, we realize that obesity can lead to further health problems. Insurance

companies continue to rally around the importance of normal weight, as measured by body mass index (BMI). Today, it is not uncommon to speak with a healthy pregnant mom who is due in a week and is still jogging several miles a day. Pregnant women lift weights, run, do yoga, and play tennis. Thirty-five years ago, perfectly healthy women were advised to sit and exert little to no energy. That is not the case today.

Testing for genetic abnormalities in pregnancies continues to improve. Although amniocentesis is still used, genetic tests are available that require only a small blood sample. Patients at South Hill OBGYN Associates are given complete information about all available testing, including new tests, to allow them to make reasonable, thoughtful decisions.

For the post-40-year-olds, there are now more procedures available to adjust premenopausal changes. A recently developed procedure known as endometrial ablation is an out-patient procedure that results in a more controlled cycle for the patient.

As women approach menopause, they often experience heavy monthly cycles. This procedure reduces the heavy flow and helps to avoid potential, unnecessary hysterectomies.

A new robotic procedure for hysterectomies helps to dramatically cut a patient’s hospital stay. Using this robotic procedure, a hysterectomy is performed where five small incisions are made in the patient’s abdomen. Scarring is minimal. Based on the reason for the surgery and the potential complications due to the patient’s other health issues, a limited number of candidates qualify for this procedure.

About 15 years ago the bone density, or DXA, machine became available to test a patient’s bone loss. Bone loss scores can range from mild to severe. If a patient is diagnosed with bone density loss, there is now a wider range of medications to treat it. The testing technology and the pharmaceutical advances in this field have largely improved a patient’s mobility as she ages. Educating post-menopausal women about the negative impact of bone loss is important. Each patient must make a choice about how she will treat bone loss based on the severity of her condition and which medication best fits her health issues and lifestyle.

Years ago, many elderly women suffered from curved spines, resulting from hairline fractures of their vertebrae. Curved spines are now a thing of the past, which is analogous to improved women’s healthcare today.

At South Hills OBGYN Associates as we reflect on the past 35 years in obstetrics and gynecological care, we are proud to be standing a little taller and a little straighter. The continually improving tools and diagnostics that we provide to our patients help them to better manage their healthcare through the multitude of their life’s stages. We can help you, too. n

South Hills OBGYN Associates Robert C. Rankin, MD, FACOG Sandor Mecs, MD, FACOG 1050 Bower Hill Road, Suite 206 Pittsburgh, PA 15243 Phone 412-572-6127 Fax 412-572-6174 www.shobgyn.com

Tina, a medical assistant, preps a patient for a non-stress test.

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From “S””to “T””—Doors of USC Mary Lynne Spazok

Tis’ the season. From Seegar Circle to Taper Drive, Upper St. Clair’s Trotwood neighborhoods are certainly magical! In our Township’s northwest quadrant, Trotwood West swelled in the 60s, while Trotwood Hills (also known as “the ‘T’ streets”) expanded in the 70s. The “T” streets include Taper, Terphin, Tragone, Trolist, Tyris, Tilton, Tyburn, Terrie, and Tier. On the west side, Seegar Circle at Fort Couch, there is Trotwood Ridge, Trotwood Drive, Trotwood Circle, and Trotwood West. Many a driver has gotten turned around and temporarily lost in this neighborhood of “T’s.” Are you one of them?

This neighborhood’s holiday splendor reflects the charisma of a decorated Upper St. Clair. Take the time and gather the kids to explore all the neighborhoods of USC on foot or by car on a wintery evening. What a wonderful family tradition as the kids “ahhhh” in delight.

While decorations are dazzling, we hope that you are feeling jolly and carefree at this time of year. All too often, we tend to become depressed, anxious, and frazzled because of our long “to do” lists. If your sugarplums suffer an annual meltdown, then 2012 is the year for positive resolve. Get jingling!

Never heard of jingling? Never been jingled? Listen for a spirited knock on your door or cheery ring of the doorbell. No one there? Investigate further. Perhaps, you will discover a package of holiday goodies with the joyful message: “You’ve been jingled!”

Delight in the surprise, while attempting to solve the mystery of who “jingled” you. Similar to the cherished ritual of gifting May Day flowers or the standard Secret Santa game, jingling has a charitable twist; you are invited to pay it forward by jingling along. Especially exciting for youngsters, I discovered this newfangled fun while exploring regional traditions. Attributed to no one in particular, your family project can be as simple or as sophisticated as you wish.

The jingle strategy: 1. Select an individual or an entire family (neighborhood, nursing home, or workplace).

2. Make a list of what goodies to include.

3. Purchase or, better yet, be creative with what you have.

4. Collect craft or recycle containers large enough for the jingle treats.

5. Compose a “jingle poem” attached to a “We’ve Been Jingled” sign.

6. Deliver your gift at dusk when no one is looking. Hang the package on the doorknob or place it at the front door, ring the doorbell or knock on the door, then run and hide!

7. Watch as the “You’ve Been Jingled” signs appear on doors and windows around our neighborhoods.

Whether a new or established tradition, the secret treats should be inexpensive. Remember, the joy of the game is the element of surprise and mystery. Simple ideas include Christmas candy, hot cocoa packets, magazines (perhaps recycled), holiday window clings, candles, and wholesome treats for beloved pets. While homemade goodies are delicious, food allergies must be considered.

Here’s wishing you holidays filled with peace, love, and a New Year rich with blessings!

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

Jingling the door bell, it’s certainly fun, To act like an elf and then run, run, run!

Embrace and share the following sage prose of novelist, journalist, and humorist Oren Arnold.

Gift Suggestions To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect.

Deliver when the time is just right.

Ring the doorbell and stay out of sight!

The Jingling Elf wants to bring everyone joy Visiting the homes of every good girl and boy This is all in good fun and all we are trying to say, Is‌ best wishes to all and happy holiday! n

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Pining For the P erfect Christmas Tree Jim O’Brien

I have never had much luck with Christmas trees. It seems they have either been too tall, too small, too fat, too thin, too dry, or too vulnerable, even when I think they’re perfect. It all began back at 5410 Sunnyside Street in Glenwood with my Uncle Robbie. That’s my earliest memory of a Christmas tree fiasco. I was about five or six at the time. My Uncle Robbie, a bachelor, was in his early 40s.

Uncle Robbie had been to a few bars before he came to our house. He was—as my dad, his older brother, always put it—halfcrocked. He was with a date, a woman named Marie. It was the day before Christmas, which was my mother’s birthday.

When my Uncle Robbie died many years ago, I was one of his pallbearers and, as I carried him to his grave, I remembered Uncle Robbie’s Christmas Eve visit. He stumbled into our front room—no one ever called it a family room or living room back then—and he, obviously, felt no pain. Our Christmas tree was in the far corner of the room, about 15 feet from the door.

He tripped over our doorstep as he entered our home. Uncle Robbie took a dive—about a two and a half gainer without the benefit of a high platform—and plunged directly into our Christmas tree. Our tree collapsed and Uncle Robbie fell face-first across the miniature railroad tracks around the base of the tree and knocked over the miniature ice skaters on a rink that was really a little mirror.

Uncle Robbie recovered, but the tree didn’t. By the following Christmas, he had gotten married to a woman named Mary and they bought a home in neighboring Greenfield. Our family visited his home at Christmas time. He said we would all have to take off our shoes at the door before we could enter his home, something about a new carpet that he didn’t want soiled. My mother wanted to toss her snow boots into their Christmas tree as a gift exchange. She was furious.

That same year, my mother hung a three-foot decorated Christmas tree upside down from our living room chandelier to keep it out of harm’s way. (True story; I’m a non-fiction writer.)

A Christmas card came to us a few weeks back from Matt and Ruthie Swetonic, and their sons, Andrew and Nicholas, who live in New York. The card caused Kathie and me to smile, as it does every year.

We were living in New York when Matt married Ruthie. We went to a Christmas party at their midtown Manhattan apartment soon after. They warmed our hearts with a romantic tale of what it was like to buy their first Christmas tree together in a lot near the bright lights of Broadway. They talked about a starry night, and sipping hot apple cider on the site, and kisses they exchanged, and how beautiful it had all been as they brought their tree to their first apartment in a light snowfall.

A few nights later, Kathie and I went to a nursery near our home on Long Island to buy our Christmas tree. We took our 15-month-old daughter, Sarah, with us. She was wearing her first snowsuit, a beautiful white one. “You only buy a white snowsuit for your first-born child,” as Kathie says, “then you get smarter.”

I remember the helpful Korean couple who owned the nursery and showed us the trees. They were friendly and in the spirit of the season. I held Sarah’s hand most of the time, but she had been walking for about three months, and desperately wanted to explore.

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Suddenly, Sarah cried out. And then Kathie cried out. I turned to see that Sarah had taken a spill, right into a mud puddle amidst the trees. Her white snowsuit was now half-brown. I don’t think this was at all what Matt and Ruthie had experienced.

For 40-some years, we’ve always had a real Christmas tree, including in our apartments in East Liberty, Miami, and East Margaret, 8, and Susannah, 4, Rockaway, New York. It has always been a Jim and Kathie’s grandchildren, in front of the O’Brien’s latest struggle getting them set up.

Christmas tree For most of those years, once we had a house, I would find myself lying on the garage floor, working with a wrench or pliers, the way you would work under a car (which I have never done, by the way), to get the tree firmly bolted into the tree stand.

By accident a few years back, I discovered that you could do the same thing, and a lot easier, by turning the tree, instead of yourself, upside down. I knew how Edison felt when his first light bulb finally worked.

To keep water flowing into the tree, you are supposed to take a fresh cut off the bottom of the tree before you put it in the tree stand. One year, I cut off too much, about two inches too much.

So I reattached the two-inch slice by pounding nails into it, sort of like shoeing a horse.

I’d always heard it was good for the tree if you put a few aspirin in the water. But, I was always out of aspirin by the time I was finished assembling the tree.

After we decorated the tree this past year, I went to plug in the lights and heard a disturbing sound. I told Kathie that I thought something might be wrong with the plug. While I was out of the house, Kathie plugged in the Christmas tree lights and the plug went kapow! Kathie told me it sparked, sizzled, and blew up in her hand. Left with a blackened palm, she thankfully escaped unharmed.

I removed the bottom string of lights on the tree without disturbing the decorations much. It looked all right without the string of lights; but nonetheless, the kids weren’t crazy about that tree.

Now that they are older and living on their own and out of town, Sarah and her sister, Rebecca, have become more critical of our tree every year. They never like the tree we pick.

We had been buying our trees at a nursery in Scott Township, but switched this year to a nursery in Bethel Park because we got a dry, brittle tree last year, and the needles fell off every time anyone touched it.

This year’s tree is short and stout, and full—maybe too full.

A friend said it reminded him of a “jolly, fat Friar.” That’s when I figured the kids might be right, even if too honest for their own good.

We always thought it would be a good idea when the girls lived with us to let them go out and get a tree for Christmas. We were going to suggest they wear their white winter coats. And maybe their mother, with her blackened hand, can pat them on the back and wish them good luck as they leave the house. n Pittsburgh author Jim O’Brien can be reached at jimmyo64@gmail.com.

His website is www.jimobriensportsauthor.com/

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17

e r e H m Fro

Four of the Best-kept Secrets of the South Hills Erin Gibson Allen

On a clear night in early July, my 11-year-old son and I saw Saturn, moon craters, and the space station while standing high on a hill not far from Upper St. Clair.

It was one of the coolest things I have done in a while, and I highly recommend the experience. Our suburban place on the earth hosts some pretty spectacular events and places, often unappreciated.

Below is a list of two events and two places that I experienced this year, all pretty jaw-droppingly cool.

• Star Parties. My son and I saw Saturn’s rings and the moon at a star party, held at the Mingo Creek Park observatory in Washington County.

Periodically, telescope-toting amateur astronomers, through the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh, gather at the Mingo observatory and invite the public to come and gaze through their telescopes and the two permanent telescopes installed at the park.

Standing in the pitch-black night and looking at images of distant star clusters rivals video games or smart phones apps any day. After his first glimpse of Saturn, my son commented that that was one of the coolest things he had ever seen. He could hardly believe his eyes, he said. To boot, the drive to Mingo through the rural roads of Washington County is simply beautiful!

For more, visit www.3ap.org. The event is free to the public, but donations are accepted and appreciated.

• The T to the North Shore. This summer I went to a Pirate day game (they were still winning at the time) and a concert at Stage AE. For both events, I hopped the T at South Hills Village and did not get off until I was at the North Shore. Wow! While I generally read the papers and I knew that the T was being extended to the North Shore, the reality of the benefit of this escaped me until I experienced it myself.

We can now drive to South Hills Village, park, pay a few bucks for the T, and end up at the stadiums and all the fun adjacent restaurants there with very little hassle.

Our friends in Cranberry or Wexford cannot take that magic trip, avoiding game-day parking and traffic hassles. I suppose they could show us up and hire a limo, but the cost of that adds up quickly.

I have hopes for a T that connects to Oakland or Shadyside one day. The South Hills to anywhere and back, I say.

• Meadowcroft Village. North America’s oldest archeological dig is just a short drive from our homes here in the South Hills. Really!

As a kid, I had taken a handful of field trips to Meadowcroft Village and enjoyed making candles and visiting the oneroom schoolroom. But as an adult, the archaeological dig and the state-of-the-art visitors’ center amazed me more.

The artifacts at this National Historic Landmark were discovered relatively recently with the help of a groundhog and reveal evidence of people living and travelling through the area 16,000 years 18

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ago. That’s almost as impossible to imagine.

The gift shop is interesting, too, and the women who work there will tell you where you can get some great ice cream for your drive back home.

For more, visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org.

• Wingfield Pines. While I had read about the work that the Allegheny Land Trust had done to the old Wingfield Pines pool and golf club (its incarnation when I was a kid here), only recently did my husband and I go for a walk through there to personally see how the 80 acres of land had changed.

The work the ALT and some students from the University of Michigan have done is impressive.

I had no idea such a complex system of mining tunnels exists under our feet, and about the challenges they present in keeping our water clean.

I imagine most of us drive by the entrance to this plot of land several times a month, having little idea of the land’s history and its current use. The land, with its signage and adjacent to the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) and sports fields, is easy to find. It’s worth parking the car and having a walk around.

ALT was the winter 2009 cover sponsor of TODAY. For more, visit www.alleghenylandtrust.org.

My husband will tell you that I was on fire this year with planning family outings. He may also tell you it got out of control at times.

But I was driven not just by a curiosity of the destinations and activities around us, but also by something more bittersweet.

People will occasionally comment on how they cannot remember the sensation of pain. Truth be told, I am disappointed by how little of anything I remember, good or bad.

My kids’ infant and toddler years are a blur. The early years of my marriage and my ten years of living in Shadyside are just a smattering of memories.

The pattern of life lived and forgotten repeats itself. I have a great day, or a miserable one, I fall asleep, and I carry with me into the next day only a small portion of the memory of the details of the previous day. Every night of sleep robs me of more of the details that comprise a life.

You can’t bring much with you in the hand basket that is your mind.

One consolation is that my sieve of a mind cannot rob me of anticipation for the future.

So while my memories of star parties and concerts on the North Shore become more ephemeral, my plans for the future have yet to transpire and, therefore, leave me looking forward when I wake up, rather than lamenting on that which I have left behind.

Open your calendars, then, find an event worth attending, and mark it down and starting planning. Ever onward. n I’d like to hear your thoughts on contemporary parenting in Upper St. Clair. Please share your ideas about my column with me in person, or email your thoughts to me at eallen@uscsk.k12.pa.us. Let me know about your favorite places or events in the area.

Traveling with TODAY

Janet Elders and Chuck Billerbeck

Pam Dillie, Carolyn Seymour, and Laura Rooney

Baker’s Adventure Club was busy again this past summer! Pam Dillie, third grade teacher at Baker Elementary; Carolyn Seymour, Baker paraprofessional; and Laura Rooney, Baker head secretary, ziplined on the Canopy Tour while at Seven Springs Resort. Along for the ride were two issues of TODAY! Last summer, this fun group enjoyed skydiving. What will next summer’s adventure be? Stay tuned!

Janet Elders and Chuck Billerbeck, USC residents and members of an organized 2006 mission trip to Nyadire, Zimbabwe, for The Nyadire Connection (TNC), appeared in an article “Putting a Face on Africa” in the summer 2008 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Returning to rural Nyadire in 2012 with the United Methodist Mission and TNC, Janet and Chuck carried along TODAY and saw firsthand how the programs they helped to initiate are improving life for the people in that area.

Read “Putting a Face on Africa Continues” on page 24 of this issue for a follow up article on the efforts of their recent mission trip.

Overlooking the “city of love” from atop the Arc de Triomphe with UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY in hand, Bob, Karyn, and Katherine Kail stopped in Paris,

France, for three days on their way to visiting their son and brother, Zack Kail, his wife, and three kids in Larnaca, Cyprus. Zack was pastoring a church in Cyprus this past summer. The trip also included a visit to Lebanon where Bob’s grandparents were born.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is proud to travel with you, too! Read the following criteria to find out how.

• Clear, close-up photo of USC resident(s) holding his or her TODAY magazine.

• Digital photo or hard copy 35mm accepted. ‣‣ For digital, attach jpg (at least 300 dpi) and send via email, including required information (see below) in the body of the email. ‣‣ For 35 mm, attach post-it to back of hard copy photo, listing the required information (see below).

• List name(s) of resident(s), group, and specific photo location.

• List objective of visit—leisure, volunteer, career, etc.

• Include email address or phone number should further contact be necessary.

• Deliver one 35 mm photo with details to the USC Township receptionist in an envelope marked “USC TODAY,” or • Email one digital photo with details to usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us, with “TODAY” listed in subject line.

Note: Submitted photos and information for this feature section will remain on file for upcoming editions until published. n

Left to right are Katherine, Bob, and Karyn Kail

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Renewing Old Friendships Heather Holtschlag

10, 20, 30... 50 and more!

Almost as fun as your senior year in high school “The evening also included a heck of a lot of laughs,” Rauch said. and the graduation ceremonies and festivities that follow are high The Class of 1972 also reunited with old friends and shared school reunions. The planning, reminiscing with old friends, and some laughs when they celebrated their 40th high school rereliving memories of the good ol’ days build excitement and an- union in September, which was planned by Lori Cherup, MD, ticipation in all who attend. And, let’s face it…who doesn’t look Sally Colussy, Carole Stevens, Sylvia Fabrizi, Carol (Stoltenberg) forward to showing off their recent achievements to that rivaled Forbes, and Marsha (Kellermann) Spear. Attendees were invited to classmate?

StonePeppers Grill in Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair was a very next day to the Hyde Park Steakhouse, where Many graduated classes from Upper St. Clair High School have recently celebrated a special place to grow up, and they had their choice of entrees and received milestone graduation year and celebrated in it seems that no matter where Upper St. Clair ’72 reunion glassware. The fesstyle—from Pirate games and casual happy tivities ended with a trip to see the Pirates play the years have taken us and the Chicago Cubs. hours to dinners and cocktails, the festivities were just as diverse as the classmates, some the changes in our lives since I wouldn’t say I miss high school, however of whom traveled great distances to attend. graduation, we come together I have warm memories and it was nice to get “What we love most about these reunion at these events as if no time together with folks who “knew you when,” said get-togethers is that the camaraderie that was Spear, who was part of the reunion’s planning has passed. established back in high school continues committee. “It appeared the high school cliques today,” said Betsy Rauch, who, together with John Yochum, Leslie had all disappeared and folks just seemed to enjoy catching up Howell Chambers, Doug Kennedy, Frank Scott, John McCullough, and acquainting themselves with people they didn’t necessarily and John “H” Christ, planned the reunion activities for the Class know well in high school.” of 1977. “The high school years and friendships were, for many She added that many classmates thought waiting ten years until of us, the ones that shaped our lives. Upper St. Clair was a very the next reunion was too long and they may consider scheduling special place to grow up, and it seems that no matter where a casual gathering in five. the years have taken us and And, one of the most recent the changes in our lives since graduating classes to host a graduation, we come together reunion was the class of 1992, at these events as if no time who recently got together to has passed. These reunions are celebrate their graduation 20 years ago. quite special.”

Planned by high school The Class of 1977 celebratclassmates Megan (Halliwell) ed its 35th reunion in October with an informal happy hour at Shilling and Mike Mascaro, StonePeppers Grill in Settlers the reunion took place in Ridge and a formal evening September at the Heinz History featuring cocktails, dinner, and Center. Attendees got to share dancing at the Crowne Plaza. in great food and beverages

Class of 1972 Reunion photos

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and were allowed to tour the center and view the Pittsburgh memorabilia.

“I was most looking forward to catching up with friends who no longer live in the Pittsburgh area,” Shilling said. “It seems like yesterday that we just graduated from high school.”

The class also had a five-year reunion at Station Square, a ten-year celebration at a bar in the Strip District, and a 15-year party at Molly Branigan’s in Mt. Lebanon.

“Seeing classmates that I have not seen since graduation was what I looked forward to most,” said Sarah O’Brien, who is a 1992 graduate. “I do keep in touch with some of the friends I had in high school—my best friend in high school is still one of my best friends today—and in November, I hosted a baby shower at my house in Ohio, which six of my high school friends attended and traveled

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from places as far as North Carolina, West Virginia, and Chicago.

The creation of Facebook has also helped me to feel connected to friends and classmates from school, but it is still great to see everyone in person!” n

Class of 1992 Reunion photos

To check out the District’s alumni page, visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us and click on the Alumni tab from the home page. If your USCSD class has a reunion announcement that you would like posted, contact the USCSD webmaster and share your information.

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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I Even Walked On Water Diane Morris

I love to walk. I enjoy looking back on the past 30 years of walking on many a different path. It all started with a family vacation in Maine; and since then, I have not missed walking four to five miles a day at least five days a week. In that time, I have walked one and a half times around the world (or 14 times across the United States) logging a total of more than 40,000 miles.

As we head again to York Beach, Maine, where it all started, I find myself reflecting on the places my feet have taken me. I have walked the beaches from Oregon to California on the west coast and Maine to Florida on the east coast. My strolls along the sandy beaches of Long Sands in York Beach while watching the sun rise over Nubble Lighthouse rank at the top of my list.

The beach at Kiawah Island in South Carolina is another of my favorite places to walk. There, the dolphins follow you as you make your way along the sandy coast line and if you’re as lucky as I was, you get to see the baby loggerhead turtles leave their nest and make their way to the ocean. My walks at Kiawah are often with our good friends Bob and Bebe Cheatham.

Sun rise over Nubble Lighthouse

cruise ships have the promenade deck open early. When we travelled around South America, the cruise ship deck didn’t open until 6:30 a.m. Along with other early risers in search of exercise, I made my way around closed casinos, empty theater aisles, and stateroom hallways.

The lesson to be learned: before booking, find out when the promenade deck opens and where it is located. If it is on the top deck, you may blow away in the wind, and if it opens later than you want, you’ll get to meet the cleaning crew and get to know your way around the ship.

One of the more exciting sights that I enjoyed on an early morning stroll was seeing a whale breech as I walked the deck of our cruise ship in Alaska. He looked like he was playing as he came out of the water and did a 360-degree turn in the air.

Later in the day while talking to the naturalist, she mentioned that when she was coming out to meet the ship at 5 a.m. she saw a whale breech and was sorry others couldn’t enjoy it, too!

I’ve had many beautiful walks away from the ocean, as well.

In Athens, Greece, I watched the sun rise over the Pantheon. The only life I encountered was a priest opening his small church and packs of wild dogs sitting on the hillside watching as I made my way through the “non-tourist” area of the city. I walked the Las Ramblas each morning in Barcelona, Spain, as the shopkeepers got ready for the day. In Paris, the homeless greeted me each morning as I walked in their beautiful gardens and parks. The beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, with its thousand waterfalls, and Denali National Park in Alaska, with its beautiful mountains and wildlife, were all places I would love to visit again.

Many of my excursions were made more enjoyable because I was joined by family and friends. When my 11 grandchildren were babies, their mothers were happy to hand them off in the early morning so they and others could grab more shuteye at our Maine retreat. I look forward now to walks with them as teenagers as we head to the beach. Their parents are always happy to take a walk in the quiet of

Walking the beaches in the Bahamas was not that easy due to the uneven terrain underfoot. However, being accompanied

by John and Verneta Matt on these early morning outings made them very special.

The most beautiful beaches I have walked are in Hawaii. Our friends, Dr. Willie and Lily Tashima, live on Diamond At the USC High School track, Head and were able to direct my husband, ready for walking, left to right, are George, and me to secluded beaches that Tom Ramsey, Donna Yago, Ralph we shared with only one or two surfers. In Carabetta, and Diane Morris Greece, I watched the snorkelers bring an octopus from the same area I swam in. Maybe it’s safer to walk than swim.

Not only have I walked on beaches, I’ve also walked on water. I walk the decks every day that we are out to sea. We have cruised around New Zealand, through the Panama Canal, and the Greek Islands. I am usually up on deck when we pull into a new port early each morning. The most beautiful port was Istanbul, Turkey, followed closely by Sidney, Australia. Not all 22

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Diane and George Morris on Kiawah Island

Westminster Mission Fellow in Haiti

Diane Morris

daybreak. Kristin’s family lives in Milton, Georgia, north of Atlanta and she and her dog, Hazel, “jump” at the chance to get going. Pete and family lived in Windsor, England, and my granddaughter, Caroline, insisted I walk her to school in the Windsor Castle when we visited. I would get lost on my way back each day. They now live in Brussels, Belgium, and I look forward to future walks there. Jeff and family lived in Vancouver, Washington, and now live in Simpsonville, South Carolina, not far from Clemson University where Jeff went to college and played baseball.

During those years, we travelled around for many of his games and I walked on the many beautiful college campuses throughout the country. Karen’s family lives in Upper St. Clair and we are so lucky to be able to hike the trails at Boyce Mayview Park and Gilfillan Park. I enjoy walking at the Upper St. Clair High School track. If the weather is bad, I walk inside at our beautiful Community & Recreation Center.

Walking with friends is always special.

I’ve enjoyed my walks with Willie and Lily in Hawaii, Bob and Bebe in Kiawah, and John and Verneta in the Bahamas, plus our annual weekends away at Seven Springs.

And for 30 years, I have especially enjoyed walking with my friends at the high school track: Donna, Ralph, and Tom, and for so many years while Bob climbed the stairs.

For 27 years I walked in rain, snow, heat, and cold. But now, I check the outside conditions, and if they are not good I head to the C&RC. I firmly believe that my walks over the years have kept me strong and active. If I continue to walk for 30 more I’ll be 99, and that’s not a bad goal in life to have! n Diane Morris serves on the Parks and Recreation Board for the Township of Upper St. Clair and lifeguards at the C&RC.

Having traveled to some of the rougher parts of the world, including Kenya, Ecuador, Swaziland, and a semester abroad in Cape Town, South Africa, Ray Van Cleve went to Haiti in January with no specific expectations. He had seen abject poverty previously and figured the poverty in Haiti would be similar to that which he saw in Africa and South America. Fortunately, Ray was wrong, and was so moved at the La Croix New Testament Mission in Haiti and the people there, that he promised Pastor Vaugelas Pierre, the head of the mission, that he would find a way to come back. He met with Jim Gilchrist, senior pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and together with Pastor Pierre they helped Ray keep his promise.

On the morning of September 25, Ray arrived in Port Au Prince, Haiti, and began a nine-month project helping the La Croix New Testament Mission build a technical school. Ray returned on the condition that he would be serving the mission in Haiti, performing a service they really needed. For some time, Pastor Pierre had wanted to establish a technical school that could train plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and other tradesmen. Not being an expert on the trades, but having quite a bit of experience managing projects, Ray was believed to be the perfect person to push this project through to completion. Westminster has a long history of supporting Pastor Pierre’s work in Haiti; in adFor the past 16 years, Ray Van Cleve has dition to establishing the technical school, Ray attended Westminster Presbyterian Church. hopes he can build on that relationship.

He is a 2007 graduate of Upper St. Clair Pastor Pierre started in La Croix with just High School. a Bible and a vision. The first school he built was a preschool, and he continued to expand his mission to meet the needs of the community. Today, he has multiple schools that serve 3500 children from preschool to high school, as well as a grain refinery, a housing project, multiple clinics, and a Sunday church service. Pierre has a very good measure on the needs of the surrounding community and feels that a technical school would be an asset to the community.

One of the major issues Haiti faces is failing infrastructure. In rural areas like La Croix there is very little potable drinking water, forcing many people to drink from unclean streams and rivers. Many buildings and houses are falling apart without any durable repairs able to be made. Many of these issues persist because there are few with T h e m i s s i o n f e l l o w p ro j e c t a t adequate training who can fix these problems. Westminster Presbyterian Church has three purposes: (1) to provide valuable Another issue, given the hard economic times personnel support, for up to one year, in the country, is that some of the high school to one of Westminster’s mission partner graduates struggle to find consistent employ- agencies in the U.S. or abroad; (2) to ment. This new school will help to address enable one Westminster member per year both needs. The graduates will have enough to explore mission service as a possible work to give them viable employment, and the vocation; and (3) to encourage other work they do will improve the living standards Westminster members to become involved in mission service as a result of the misin the community.

Ray hopes he can return home in June 2013 sion fellow’s experience and testimony.

Ray Van Cleve is the first Westminster having completed the school, but also hopes mission fellow. that this trip can strengthen the relationship between the La Croix Mission and Westminster.

Resources: Not everyone can go to Haiti, but with the La Croix Haiti New Testament Mission: strong ties between Westminster and the La www.lacroixhaitimission.org Croix mission, this school will hopefully give Westminster Presbyterian Church: those in the community an opportunity to get www.westminster-church.org involved with the mission work by sponsoring Ray Van Cleve’s Travel Blog: rayvc.tumblr.com students and supporting the school financially. n Winter 2012

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Putting a Face on Africa Continues Elsa Zollars

“We will return...” was the promise made by USC residents Janet Elders and Chuck Billerbeck after their mission trip to the United Methodist Mission in Nyadire, Zimbabwe. In 2006, they were part of the first mission team sent by Christ United Methodist Church, Bethel Park, First Bethel UMC, Mt. Lebanon UMC, and St. Paul’s in Allison Park. Their work was highlighted in the summer 2008 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. Janet has returned five times to work with her “second family,” and Chuck joined her this past May. Their 2012 experiences are in sharp contrast to those of 2006 when Zimbabwe topped “The World’s Worst List,” and dictator Robert Mugabe was known as one of the world’s worst leaders. Once the “Breadbasket of Africa,” Zimbabwe’s economy was bankrupt with a monetary inflation of 8000%. People faced daily shortages of food, HIV-AIDS was rampant, one quarter of the children were orphaned, and electricity, fuel, and water were sporadic or in short supply.

The 18 members of the 2006 mission team saw empty shelves in the grocery stores and hospital pharmacy and broken equipment with no fuel or means to operate it. But the team soon realized Zimbabweans value relationship over “stuff” and that they will stop what they are doing to help someone in need, a cultural custom called Chabadza. They are a resilient, grateful culture that finds joy in the everyday despite their hardships.

They will find the most ingenious ways to carry on. Chuck comments they “make impoverishment an art form.”

Upon returning to the states, the team knew they were stakeholders in this place and formed an organization, The Nyadire Connection (TNC) that has sought to keep the mission and its programs operational.

Ready for school with new backpacks

The mission, founded in the 1920s, has long been a center for medical, educational, and spiritual support for a wide rural area, having a hospital, nursing school, orphanage, school system, church, farm, and teachers’ college.

Janet states, “The mission has changed so much in six years. The hospital is operational and spotless, headed by an administrator and a head physician. I remember bringing back a proposal written

by Dr. Tshiani to TNC in 2007 to build a hospital storeroom. Today that storeroom is filled with hospital supplies and medication made possible through semi-annual shipments and donations and purchases through Brothers’ Brothers, Global Links,

Tending to the crops

Gathering for prayer 24

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

and others. But the biggest difference is that there is running water once again, made possible by the United Methodist Committee on Relief, TNC, and the Finnish Methodist Church.”

The once small children at the Home of Hope Orphanage (HOH) are now pre-teens or teenagers and have become a real family.

The 25 children are well cared for, thanks to an able administrator, a qualified staff, and the support of generous U.S. sponsors who pay $30 monthly for care, medical, and school fees. In addition to their schoolwork, the children learn about animals and work in the garden, now seven times larger because of proper fencing and irrigation.

The HOH has a goal: to raise enough produce to be self-sustaining and sell vegetables to people who live and work on the mission.

“I met a girl named Progress in 2007. She and her younger brother, recently orphaned, came to Nyadire to live with their grandmother. They could not go to school since there was no money for school fees. That year we took photos of 100 orphans and asked folks to pay their school fees and provide a backpack of school supplies. The Outreach School Scholarship Program was born. Progress is now proud of her rank in Nyadire High School. She is now one of the more than 350 children whose school fees and backpack of school supplies are paid by sponsorships.”

Chuck Billerbeck agrees that the return of running water is a very important change. He cites mission leadership as helping to make this a reality. Improved communication is also a moving force. “In 2006, we had difficulty letting our families know we had arrived and what was happening. Now, everyone has a cell phone and wireless transmission is available through the teachers’ college. The dollarization of the economy has made the currency stable. No more taking stacks of 1000 Zim dollars to buy something.”

What Chuck didn’t expect was the “level of entrepreneurship in the country—people figuring out how to make money.” He and TNC intern Ben Dempe launched a TNC Microloan program in 2010. Since then, 11 loans totaling $2850 have been granted for 11 projects, including raising chickens, buying a cow, or funding a wedding decoration business. “A program committee of five has been organized and a project administrator has emerged who has approved the operation procedures for the governance and loan underwriting. TNC hopes to raise $5000, with every dollar going to loan capital.”

“I have fulfilled most of my ambitions,” reveals Chuck, “but going to buy a used truck with Emmanuel, the HOH administrator, was the most fun I’ve had in years. Emmanuel was like a kid in a candy store, and I loved the haggling.” Chuck has also treasured the relationship he’s had with a hospital employee, Jim, then 19.

Chuck has been like a godfather to Jim, counseling him in 2006 about the ups and downs of finding “Mrs. Right.”

Chuck has great hope for these Zimbabweans because of their resiliency and their hope. “When the whole world turned their back on Zimbabwe, some NGOs and TNC stayed to help. TNC’s great legacy will come when the 4500-acre farm is operational, tractors are running, and cash crops are being produced. TNC’s close and continual relationship with the mission will change.

Self-sufficiency will be achieved. Chuck’s final remarks are, “This has been a transforming experience for those of us in this work and those 8400 miles away. This relationship has brought out the best in all of us.” n Presently, The Nyadire Connection (TNC) has 11 programs in Nyadire. For information on these programs and specifically for the ones mentioned in this article, visit www.nyadire.org.

A Wakeup Call—Just In Time Jim Meston

At 4:30 in the morning not long ago, I was standing, looking at my chest in the mirror with the awareness that in just a few hours the heart surgeon at St. Clair Hospital was going to make about an eight-inch incision in my chest, take a circular saw and split open my breast bone, remove my heart from its sac, and repair the blockages that I was told I had just a few days earlier. It was hard to believe it was about to happen.

A routine stress test a few days earlier identified that I had blockages. I had no pain, just a little chest congestion. My primary doctor, Anil Prabhu, an Upper St. Clair resident, recommended that to be on the safe side, a stress test would be appropriate; and, indeed, it was! My cardiologist, Dr. David Burkey, another Upper St. Clair resident, administered the stress test and identified a number of blockages.

He introduced me to the surgeon who would perform the surgery. They both told me how lucky I was to have the blockages identified; and while I was having no pain, the possibility of a major heart attack was a reality. Dr. Burkey helped me get serious about the surgery when he said that sometimes the first heart attack is the last one.

Gulp. OK, cut and saw away!

About the time I was getting ready to go to the hospital, heart surgeon and Upper St. Clair resident Dr. Fredrick Woelfel would be leaving his home for

the drive to the hospital, a trip he makes almost every morning. Dr. Woelfel came highly recommended to me by my doctors. He has been the chief of cardiovascular surgery since the Heart Center at St. Clair Hospital opened in April 1998. He was recently issued a five-star rating for coronary artery bypass grafting and valve surgery by a leading independent health care ratings service.

In 2010, he was named one of the state’s highest ranking physicians in the number of open chest surgery cases and related low mortality rates.

If my chest was going to be sliced open and a circular saw was going to Voluntary contributor to TODAY, Jim Meston, a longtime be used, Dr. Woelfel appeared to be USC resident, lives in nearby McDonald. my best choice. I learned later that he is so proficient and skilled at this How could it be that I would soon be unprocedure and does it so rapidly and effectively that he has earned the compli- dergoing surgery where my chest would be mentary nickname “Fast Freddy.” He gets split in two? I found out that I contributed in, fixes the problem, and closes up rapidly. a great deal to the problem.

My evening snack-of-choice was a I guess that’s a good thing.

When I was diagnosed with artery nice-sized chunk of cheddar cheese. I like blockages, I was stunned. How could bacon and I had eggs two or three times that be? My blood pressure was good, my a week. I never just had a couple of slices cholesterol readings were good, my blood of bacon—it shrinks—so, why not four or sugar was in the acceptable range, I walked five? I liked the fries at McDonald’s, pizza, regularly, and did my exercises. I took the and pasta. The salt shaker was in frequent daily recommended doses of fish oil and an use, adding its crystals to almost every81-milligram baby aspirin. I never smoked thing I ate. I pretty much ate whatever I and I only drank alcohol in small amounts. felt like eating. I always knew I could lose Continued on page 81 Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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Winter Birthday Gems

Amy Guarino Yadouga, Louis Anthony Jewelers The history of the birthstone is rooted in ancient biblical times. Experts agree about a passage in the Old Testament that refers to a high priest and his breast plate of gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Various writings by ancient scholars correlate this biblical passage to the 12 signs of the zodiac.

However, with the arrival of Jewish gem traders in 18th century Poland, birthstone jewelry made its debut in modern culture.

In 1912, Jewelers of America defined the modern list of birthstones and it has remained unchanged since then. December birthdays have two choices in birthstone jewelry—turquoise, which is considered by some to bring good fortune to the wearer, and blue topaz, often referred to the gemstone of friendship. January birthdays are represented by the garnet.

These beautiful gems are commonly thought to only be deep red in color when, in fact, they are also available in shades of green, yellow, and purple. Garnet is associated with loyalty and protection.

The gift of jewelry often represents romance, friendship, or simply a token of affection. In addition, wearing the gem linked to one’s birthday is universally associated with good luck and health. Birthstone jewelry wholly encompasses this idea and makes a perfect present for yourself or a loved For a complete list of birthstones, visit www.jewelers. one anytime of year! n org. See ad for Louis Anthony Jewelers on page 5.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

...a Time for Giving Holiday Decorating— Take It Easy Cathy Davin, Davin Interiors, LLC

As the holidays approached in years past, I felt stressed and anxious about all that needed to be done—decorating the house from top to bottom, endless shopping and to-do lists, a lot of extra time in the kitchen. One year I finally decided that this is not what it’s all about, and I just said “no.”

I enjoy the season so much more now that I have a relaxed attitude about what really needs to be done. I decorate, shop, and cook for what I can handle in my schedule and let the rest go. So, if making your own crafty gifts or designing your own gift wrap sounds stressful, here are some truly easy and quick holiday decorating ideas for you.

Take a few minutes and freshen up your front entrance—sweep away the fall leaves, hang a beautiful wreath and add ropes of garland with a string of lights.

Even if nothing else gets “decorated,” you’ll feel like your house looks pretty and is all dressed up.

Photo credit: Adam Milliron Place easy holiday accents around your home—try a potted amaryllis, candy in pretty dishes, or scented soaps in the guest bath or powder room. No need to overdo it, and again, just a few minutes is all you need.

Carve out loads of time for family fun—we have lots of dinners out together, family movie night, and game night at the kitchen table. Maybe it’s me, but I call that a lot more holiday fun than waiting in the grocery store line to buy more ingredients for even more cookies!

Set up a self-serve bar and leave it up through New Year’s—if you don’t have an official bar, use a console table, chest, or even a good size side table. If it’s all set up, that’s one less thing to do before guests arrive. Most people enjoy helping themselves, as well.

Candle magic—place a variety of sizes and styles around your home. Their flickering light and warmth create a cozy holiday feel on cold winter evenings. I keep our candles going until spring!

Rearrange furniture in the living room or family room—group seating arrangements around the fireplace or pull chairs close together in a circle to allow for conversation among holiday guests.

This might also free up the space you need for a Christmas tree.

Check on infrequently used items such as table linens and stemware to make sure they are ready to go for holiday meals and entertaining. This can prevent a last minute rush to replace a table cloth that was stained during the last holidays. I know; I’ve been there!

Take a deep breath… and take it easy. n

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Holidays...

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

On November 31, as well as December 1 and 2, I will have my last performance in Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker. As a senior in high school, I look back on my childhood and remember the first time I went to see The Nutcracker. A sense of magic was in the air as my mother read me the story of Clara’s Nutcracker who transformed into her prince and took her to see the Sugar Plum Fairy in the enchanted Land of Sweets. The feeling of excitement and anticipation backstage for the curtain to rise and the music and dancing to begin continues to race through me as I prepare to go onstage to perform in Pittsburgh Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker.

As a little girl, The Nutcracker showed me the beauty of ballet. Dreams of Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy filled my head and I soon began an unforgettable journey to become a dancer myself. As I got older, the Sugar Plum Fairy meant more than just a beautiful queen, she represented the ultimate grace and beauty and joy through the hearts of dancers. With my heart set on my dream to dance one of the most timeless and superior roles of ballet, I set out on a journey to become that dancer. Through that journey, I found that Pittsburgh Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker provided an amazing versatility with age. Always a part for everyone to dance—from Bon-Bons and Mice, to Party Girls and Dolls, to Snowflakes and Flowers—each year enabled the growth of all dancers through different aspects of the performance.

The experience of being onstage performing The Nutcracker has been the most treasured memory of my childhood. Each year The Nutcracker has come to help me grow in new ways and learn who I am as a person and a dancer. It has taught me lessons that will help me to succeed throughout the rest of my life.

Thank you to Jean Gedeon and to all other teachers and staff of Pittsburgh Youth Ballet for making this such a cherished memory and helping me to grow as a dancer and a person. n Winter 2012

...a Time for Giving The Perfect Solution— StonePepper’s The holidays and cold winter nights are the perfect time to cozy up at StonePepper’s Grill with a selection of “warmup” cocktails to share with family and friends. A few of the drinks offered are “Tall, Dark and Hot,” “S’Mores Please,” and Irish coffee. More delicious drinks on the menu are “Autumn Spice,” “Almond Joy,” and “Winter White Cosmo.” A new seasonal fall/ winter food menu complements your favorite drink selection.

Enjoy making the following “warmup” cocktail recipe. But first, taste it at StonePepper’s while watching one of our favorite hometown sports teams! n

New Menus and Daily Specials Share the Holidays at SPG 1614 Washington Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Black and Gold 1 oz. Amaretto 1 oz. Orange liquor 1 oz. Frangelico Coffee (hot) Top with whipped cream. Sip and enjoy!

Happy holidays from your friends at StonePepper’s Grill!

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Save Money on Holiday Gifts With a little planning, you can find ways to stretch your gift-giving budget this holiday season. Try these ideas to make saving money the present you give yourself.

• Go online before you shop. Many retailers post online special promotions and coupons that you can apply to purchases.

Check what’s available before you make a purchase online or head out to the store. Sites like RetailMeNot make finding discounts easy by listing coupon codes for dozens of popular retail sites.

• Redeem your rewards points. The bonus points that you accumulate through credit cards, airline travel, and hotel stays can add up to a present or two. Cash in your available points to “purchase” a gift for someone on your list.

• Seek out group discounts. Sites such as Groupon.com, Living Social, and others offer deals and deeply discounted coupons that help you stretch your dollar. Always read the fine print on these offers, taking note of expiration dates and other restrictions, to make sure they fit into your gift-giving plans.

• Save on shipping. Don’t pay for shipping if you don’t have to.

Plenty of online retailers will forgo shipping charges during the holiday season. They may also ship free to your local store and let you pick up your item there.

• Buy together. Wine is often sold at a discount when you buy a case. Go in with a friend or two and you’ll all knock a few dollars off the per-bottle price. Or split the cost—and

the quantity—of a great entrée for your holiday meal at a warehouse club.

• Spread out the season. If you can’t afford new hardcover books for every reader on your list, save a few dollars by giving someone a subscription to a publication that he or she will enjoy throughout the year.

• Take advantage of two-for-one offers. Buying perfume for a friend? If you get a free gift with your purchase, earmark it for the preteen on your list.

• Cut the price of gift cards. Shopping clubs and online sites such as Plastic Jungle and Card Pool offer gift cards for less than the full retail price. Give the cards as presents—or use them yourself to make your money go farther.

• Call on your smartphone. Rely on shoppers’ apps to help you make good purchase decisions. There are numerous apps that help you compare prices, identify sales, and review products—potentially saving you money before you buy.

These tips from State Farm® can help you with budgeting at any time of year. You can also sign up for a free account at State Farm Nation Rewards to find exclusive special offers just for you. n See ad for State Farm® agent Cindy Brophy on page 42.

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

29

SD Upper St. Clair School District Board of School Directors

Rebecca A. Stern President 412-220-0745 2015*

Harry F. Kunselman 412-851-1115 2013*

Barbara L. Bolas Vice President 412-833-9841 2015*

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. 412-851-0622 2013*

Amy L. Billerbeck 412-833-2712 2015*

Louis M. Oliverio 724-941-4584 2015*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Buffy Z. Hasco 412-833-5712 2013*

Frank J. Kerber 412-833-4873 2013*

The 2012 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 Angela B. Petersen scheduled for July.

412-831-7182 2015*

School District Detailed Monthly Calendar Visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.

School District Central Office Administration

To reach personnel, call 412-833-1600, press 1, enter extension number followed by the # sign.

Administrator

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Sharon Suritsky Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Frosina Cordisco Director of Finance and Business

Dr. Judy Bulazo Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

Ray Berrott Director of Technology

Secretary/Email Address Extension

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole................................ Mary Ann Stabile............................. 2201 Superintendent of Schools mstabile@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Sharon Suritsky................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Assistant Superintendent of Schools dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us Dr. Judy Bulazo.......................................... Donna Faccenda..............................2218 Director of Curriculum dfaccenda@uscsd.k12.pa.us and Professional Development Frosina Cordisco........................................ Dawn Machi.....................................2220 Director of Business and Finance dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Ray Berrott.................................................. Doreen Leech....................................2211 Director of Technology dleech@uscsd.k12.pa.us Liz Hall........................................................ Dawn Machi................................... 2220 Director of Advancement dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us Eloise Stoehr............................................... Susan Bosco.....................................2283 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel sbosco@uscsd.k12.pa.us Melissa Garvin............................................ Cheryl Ellison...................................2116 Supervisor of Special Education cellison@uscsd.k12.pa.us Jonn Mansfield, Matthews Bus Company.... Karen Powers...................................3450 Transportation Director kpowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us

School District Building Administration

Liz Hall Director of Advancement

Eloise Stoehr Supervisor of Pupil Personnel

Melissa Garvin Supervisor of Special Education

Dr. Michael Ghilani..................High School Principal Lou Angelo.................................High School Associate Principal Jace Palmer................................High School Assistant Principal Christine Mussomeli.................High School Assistant Principal Joseph DeMar ...........................Fort Couch Middle School Principal John Rozzo.................................Middle School Academic Principal (Grades 5-8) Amy Pfender..............................Middle School Assistant Principal (Grades 5-8) Karen Brown.............................Boyce Middle School Principal Patrick McClintock-Comeaux....Baker Elementary School Principal Mark Miller...............................Eisenhower Elementary School Principal Dr. Claire Miller........................Streams Elementary School Principal

USC School District website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.us 30

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

High School Welcomes New Assistant Principal Joining the new faces at Upper St. Clair High School this fall was assistant principal Christine Mussomeli.

A P e t e r s To w n s h i p resident, Christine earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Duquesne University, where she also earned a master’s in educational administration. Certified to Christine Mussomeli teach grades 7-12, Christine also has her K-12 principal certification and a certificate for supervision of curriculum and instruction.

Christine started her career as an English teacher in an alternative education setting, but in January 2002, she was hired by the Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) as a high school English teacher. Several years later, after earning her master’s degree and principal certification, she was hired as a reading supervisor at PPS’s central office.

A year later, she was named assistant principal at a K-8 building. After working for a year as assistant principal, Christine was one of six out of 200 applicants chosen for PPS’s leadership academy, where she worked with one of their district’s exceptional mentors. In 2009, Christine was part of the team that opened the Pittsburgh Public School’s Science and Technology Academy, where she was director of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

“I had a very rewarding career with the Pittsburgh Public Schools,” said Christine, “but joining the Upper St. Clair School District is such an opportunity. Upper St. Clair does well all the time, in so many different areas.”

Christine said, “There is a culture of excellence here that you can feel as soon as you walk in the building.

Delivering excellence happens here, and it is exciting to be part of it.”

In her spare time, Christine said she enjoys reading, baking, and cooking, and also spending time with family and friends. This fall, she and her husband, Joe, and their Golden Retriever, Cooper, welcomed a very special family member—son, Carson Joseph, born September 19.

New job and new baby, 2012 is a big year for Christine!

With all the exciting changes in her life, she said, “I feel really blessed.” n

SD

Gifted and Talented Education Lisa Clark, GATE Chair

Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) is a committee of the Upper St. Clair PTA Council that provides support to parents of gifted and academically-talented students in the District. This committee works with local PTA units, parents, staff members, and school administrators to promote understanding, provide support, and schedule programs that address the needs of gifted and academically-talented students. This year, the GATE committee is looking forward to expanding its existing website to offer the most current information and support in gifted education, including websites, articles, and enrichment opportunities.

In Upper St. Clair, gifted programming is offered to qualifying students from elementary school through high school. Melissa Garvin, Supervisor of Special Education, is in charge of the program District-wide. Each school has a gifted coordinator who administers the program: Barbara Helmeci at Baker, Raymond Cursi at Eisenhower, and Mary Quinn at Streams. USC elementary schools use SWEP II or School Wide Enrichment Program II as enrichment for gifted students. SWEP II is specially designed instruction in the areas of creative thinking, critical thinking, and problem solving. Students typically meet with the gifted coordinator every week and work on tasks in small groups.

In middle school, the gifted program is called Challenge and offers the students a wide variety of options wherein they can explore their academic interest beyond what is offered in the classroom. The students can select Challenge options in the areas of reading/language arts, science/technology, and social studies. Each option category offers several groups to choose from, including robotics, web page design, drama, future problem solvers, and stock market, to name a few. The middle school gifted students also participate in a number of competitions in the areas of math, language arts, social studies, and science.

At Boyce Middle School the Challenge Program is under the direction of Susan Fleckenstein and Diane Ecker; at Fort Couch, it is under the direction of Connie Gibson and Tim Wagner.

At the high school the gifted program is run by Pat Palazzolo and Tim Wagner.

The high school offers a variety of enrichment options, including apprenticeship opportunities. Students can participate in a number of contests and other opportunities in technology, science, math, engineering, writing, performing arts, and fine arts.

In Pennsylvania, Chapter 16 of the Pennsylvania Code requires that each school district locate and identify all students who are thought to be gifted and in need of specially designed instruction. Each school district must have a procedure to determine a child’s needs for gifted instruction. The school district must evaluate multiple criteria indicating gifted ability through a multidisciplinary evaluation. A gifted multidisciplinary evaluation can be initiated by the school district or the parents of the child. For further information regarding Chapter 16, see www.pacode.com/secure/data022/chapter16/Chap16toc.html. n The GATE committee provides a number of information sessions and programs throughout the year. If you would like to attend a GATE meeting or event, visit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/374.

Welcome to USC School District’s new hires.

Thank you to the District retirees for their years of service.

Administrative: Christine Mussomeli (USCHS) Professional: Cynthia Baird (USCHS), Jaclyn Covelli (Baker), Erica DelMastro (Eisenhower), Rebecca Kabala (Eisenhower), Alidel Khila (Eisenhower/Boyce), Megan McGrath (Streams), Amanda Meta (USCHS), Heather Minor (Streams), Tracy Smith (USCHS), Ashley Thomas (Streams), Abigail Toohey (Fort Couch), Anne Watkinson (Fort Couch) Classified: Adam Parker (Bus Garage), Kevin Quinlan (Bus Garage), Catherine Reon (USCHS)

Administrative: John Bornyas Professional: Carol Booth, Philip Bower, Barbara Byrnes, Sherry Ellis, Janet Falk, Marjorie Heins, John Irwin, Roberta Leskovich, Carol Logan, Catherine Loughran, Mary Muffly, Norma Swaney, Timothy Stash Classified: Sandra Altman, Paul Furner, Fran McElroy, Barbara McHugh, Richard Morris, Linda Moses, Mary Lynn Mussetter, Dennis Rodgers, Sherry Stephan, Mary Ann Tungate, Darlene Vietmeier, Robert Winchel

Hail

Farewell Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

31

SD

Customizing Learning in USCSD—Defining Our Vision Judith Bulazo, Director of Curriculum and Professional Development

The time for customizing learning in education is now.

Education must keep pace with the evolution of technological change occurring in our world and leverage this to allow instruction, under the direction of an effective teacher, to meet the needs of each student. We continue to lay the groundwork for advancing learning in a customized way in the Upper St. Clair School District as we move forward on a journey that began decades ago.

It is important to first take a look at our current vision of customizing learning and its origins. A customized learning and instructional delivery model is one that is true to the child and takes into consideration the individual readiness, learning style, and interests of the child and addresses twenty-first century skills through effective instructional strategies that use technology when possible and appropriate. Although our goal is to take this vision to a higher level, we are proud that it is something that has always been a part of the fabric and tradition of the District.

Philosophy Match

The process of customizing learning has been embraced by USCSD since the 1970s with the establishment of the District’s Continuous Progress Philosophy and Policy. Meeting the learner at his or her level of development and achievement and growing his or her potential through the best instructional strategies has always been a hallmark of our District. Even in the era of standards-based education, we have evaluated our learners by how well they have grown, according to their unique needs. As educational strategies and technologies that enable this process have advanced, so has our philosophy. This has brought us to the point of embracing the concept of customized learning—quite possibly the next generation of continuous progress.

Goal Setting and Commitment

In the course of leadership development, the administrative team was exposed to the ideas from Charles Schwann in his book Inevitable: Mass Customized Learning. At the same time, the USC Board of School Directors, led by the superintendent and the administrative team, was in the process of visioning and goal setting for the future. Four goals were established and included a focus on customized learning.

Why Customized Learning?

The current educational system has traditions that can no longer be the driving force or the guide for our thinking for how to best prepare students for the future. The assembly-line organization of schooling systems, learning limited by time and space, teaching to the middle, and providing learning opportunities that coincide with the agrarian calendar are all examples that no longer make sense in the world in which we now live. The world is vastly different from when the structure of public schooling was conceived and developed.

As our world continues to change, our schools need to keep pace and deal with many new realities. Our society is global in nature with information accessible at the touch of a button.

New and more effective instructional practices continue to be researched and developed. A conversion to a national set of academic standards that are highly rigorous is currently in progress. The resources available to our students and teachers have 32

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

advanced and allow us to deliver instruction and assess students in ways we never thought possible. This same technology allows collaboration at any time and in any place with other students or experts across the globe. Mobile technology use is set to outpace desktop use in 2014.

All of these new realities impact education in significant The role of the teacher ways.

The role of the teacher will will shift from information shift from information expert expert to concept shepherd, to concept shepherd, requiring requiring a finely tuned a finely tuned intersection of intersection of skills, skills, specifically in the areas of specifically in the areas knowledge of content, pedagogy of knowledge of content, (instructional), and technology. pedagogy (instructional), We have invested a great deal of time and effort into continuing and technology. the development of these skills within the professional staff at Upper St. Clair. Teacher expertise becomes more important than ever in this world of advanced technology and change.

Customizing learning is important because of what we know about our students. Each comes to us with a unique set of needs and talents that cannot be met by a one-size-fits-all delivery system. Research has shown that meeting students at their level, addressing their styles of learning, and providing content of interest to them works to create intrinsically motivated learners. In addition, our students come with a different set of general knowledge and brain wiring than in the past, requiring non-traditional educational instruction.

The “How” of Customizing Learning

As we progress in our knowledge and research into the best ways to customize learning for students, it is necessary to think in terms of what can change at the classroom level as well as the educational systems that need to be altered. In this process, the following key points are being addressed. Consideration of what is true to the child in terms of readiness, learning style, and interest is at the heart of intrinsically motivating learning and should drive instructional decision-making.

Second, because content is no longer scarce and can be accessed With access to materials easily through an incredible numand content 24/7, ber of sources and media, teachers students are able to focus consider how to maximize the on more elaborate tasks time that students are engaged during class. in contextual meaning-making rather than listening to content being delivered to them. The role of the teacher shifts from being just the master or conveyer of the content to a stronger focus on facilitating application of knowledge and making meaning from the content, while engaging with the students and encouraging the students to engage with each other. This changes what the student may be asked to do in and away from class. With access to materials and content 24/7, students are able to focus on more elaborate tasks during class.

Of course, much of this is made possible by technology.

Consideration of how technology can be leveraged to allow for

opportunities for learning is a key component to the customization process. The use of technology in a learning environment needs to evolve from merely augmenting instruction to transforming it.

When thinking about the systemic changes that can facilitate customization of learning, we look at the ways that industry has done this for us in our daily lives.

We can customize the news that we read, download books or songs of personal interest, and be prompted to consider other related options that we may like. Our coffee is made to our specifications, and we can control which friends and family with whom we communicate on a daily basis. Companies such as Google, Apple, Amazon, Starbucks, and Facebook are all examples of the ways in which technologies and industry meet the needs of their customers and clients in very personalized ways. These examples present significant implications for educational systems.

The District is challenging itself to examine how changes to traditional systems by using advancing technologies can customize the learning process for all students. As the world and society evolve and technologies advance, we are committed to the evolution of “customized learning” in our schools. n

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Kindergarten News

Parents are requested to register their kindergarten-

aged children at the elementary school located in their attendance area. All children five years of age on or before September 1, 2012, are eligible to register.

School Area Date Baker......................................................................................................... Tuesday, February 26 Eisenhower.......................................................................................... Wednesday, February 27 Streams................................................................................................... Thursday, February 28 Times for all........................................................................................... 9-11 a.m., noon-2 p.m.

A special evening session for all elementary schools will be held on Tuesday, March 12, 6-8 p.m. at the School District Central Office. It is not necessary that the student accompany the parent to registration.

Readiness Evaluation

School personnel are available to screen children whose parents wish additional help in making a decision on entrance into kindergarten. Individual dates will be established during registration. Questions regarding kindergarten readiness should be directed to the elementary school guidance counselor or Eloise Stoehr, Supervisor of Pupil Personnel, at 412-833-1600, extension 2214.

Registration Packets

Registration packets will be available at each elementary school beginning February 13, 2013. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration.

School Health Immunization Regulations

The Allegheny County Health Department’s (ACHD) Board of Health has enacted the School Health Immunization Regulations for children in Allegheny County.

All students entering school for the first time at kindergarten must have the following immunizations completed prior to entering any public, private, or parochial school: • 4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose after the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age • 3 doses of polio • 1 dose of rubella

• 2 doses of measles • 2 doses of mumps • 3 doses of hepatitis B • 2 doses of varicella or written statement from physician/designee indicating month and year of disease or serologic proof of immunity

Any student in K-12 grade may by provisionally admitted to school only if evidence of at least one dose of antigen is given to the school administration/designee and the parent or guardian’s plan for completion of the required immunizations is made part of the child’s health record. The plan for compeltion of the required immunizations shall be reviewed every 60 days.

Families are encouraged to obtain the needed immunizations from their physicians.

However, the ACHD does offer the required vaccines free of charge. To obtain information about clinic location and times, interested persons should contact the ACHD Infectious Diseases Program at 412-578-8060.

Provisions for this regulation do not apply in cases where extenuating medical or religious factors are involved. If there is any reason why a child should not be fully immunized, parents must submit a physician’s certificate explaining the circumstances.

Parents are also required to provide written documentation if they disapprove of immunizations for religious reasons. These documents will be accepted in lieu of a certificate of immunization.

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Student Leadership Academies 2012

Elementary Leadership Academy W h o y o u a re i s h o w y o u l e a d ! T h i s s i m ple, but profound, phrase provided the vision behind the second year of the USC Elementary Leadership Academy. Sixty-eight rising fourth grade students devoted a week of their summer to pursuing personal growth in the area of leadership, under the mentorship of 13 USC staff members. Each day focused on a pillar of leadership: commitment, teamwork, courage, integrity, and celebration. Through experiential learning activities, students gained a common understanding of each pillar and then made personal connections through a journal reflection project. Highlights included a trip to a climbing wall to test individual courage, and the filming of skits to be used during the school year as part of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. Coordinator Dr. Claire Miller said, “It is never too early to foster an understanding of

Elementary Leadership Academy students

personal leadership among our students. By sparking student interest in this area, we tap into another dimension of ‘nurturing the potential’ of the whole child, in keeping with the USC tagline.”

Elementary Learning Academy Parent Feedback • It was a wonderful week—making new friends, learning new experiences.

My child had a great time.

• She really loved everything, was nervous the first day because she didn’t know anyone, but made friends quickly.

• The greatest impact was the climbing wall. He had some reservations about his ability to do it, and he climbed two times higher!

• The most important idea that my child will remember was how to work with others to accomplish a goal (teamwork).

• Loved the teamwork and the feeling of success!

• I was excited to see all that the students did. My child had a lot of fun and learned a lot.

Boyce Leadership Academy

The Boyce Leadership Academy had 77 participants this year entering either fifth or sixth grades. Students were introduced to ten core qualities of leadership throughout the weeklong academy. At the end of the week, students were able to identify individual leadership strengths and weaknesses based on the core qualities. In addition, they were able to answer the question “What is your sentence?” by developing a statement that captured who they are as a person. Working collaboratively, sixth grade students developed recreational activities to share with and explain to younger students. Fifth grade students worked together to develop miniature golf courses that were evaluated by peers. Activities at both grades were designed to encourage and reinforce the use of the leadership core qualities.

Fort Couch Leadership Academy The Fort Couch Leadership Academy had 40 participants this year entering either seventh or eighth grades. During the weeklong experience, students further applied the practices of the ten core qualities of leadership. As part of the experience, students visited Asbury Heights to participate in service learning activities with senior citizens, and they developed original business proposals, which include creating commercials to recruit others to work for their company. The commercials incorporated the core qualities of leadership to indicate the type of individual sought after to work for their company.

Many opportunities for collaboration occurred as they communicated, reflected, and took risks through the decision-making process. The culminating activity allowed students to reflect on the core leadership qualities of fellow leaders and identify the leadership strengths of others.

Left to right are Fort Couch Leadership Academy students Abby Riemer, James Boston, Jonah Glunt, and Wyatt Keating 34

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Elementary Learning Academy Student Feedback • I will remember that trying new things is fun and so is working together.

• My most important idea is commitment—never quitting.

• I will remember that anybody can be a leader.

• My most important idea is courage—to feel strong in new situations.

Winter 2012

Counter clockwise from the left are Fort Couch Leadership Academy students Hannah Sanner, Connor Leavey, Ahnna Jones, Allison Epler, James Boston, Wyat Keating, and Nick Ondrejko

High School Leadership Academy

SD The Center for Theater Arts

Explore a Center of self expression

In July 2010, 20 students in grades nine to 12 attended the initial Leadership Academy, which was facilitated by two educators. After attending the weeklong academy, which incorporated a variety of experiential learning activities built around the concept of Attending the High authentic leadership, Acting • Dance • Voice • Musical Theater School Leadership these 20 students deAcademy exposes veloped a Personal students to several Leadership Plan to Call the CTA, mention this different domains guide future leaderad and try a free class in of leadership and ship development and the month of December. themes ascribed to personal goal achievement. The program each domain. was well received by both students and parents, encouraging future expansion. Since then, the academy has added two phases: Phase II in 2011 and Phase III in 2012. Phase IV will be added in 2013 and will incorporate a global leaderwww.centerfortheaterarts.org Tickets go on sale in January for the ship challenge.

412.563.5080 High School Musical GODSPELL! Attending the High School Leadership 250 Mt. Lebanon Boulevard Performances begin January 31st.

Pittsburgh, PA 15234 Academy exposes students to several difCall for ticket and registration information info@centerfortheaterarts.org ferent domains of leadership and themes ascribed to each domain. The source for the leadership domains is the book Total Leaders 2.0 (Schwahn Table 1 & Spady, 2010), which Phase Leadership Domain(s) Theme Major Experiential Learning Activity has also served as the I Authentic Who You Are Is How You Lead.

Ropes Course basis for the USCSD II Visionary & Relational What’ s Your Tagline?

Paintball administrative leadIII Quality & Service Make it Happen!

Challenge by Choice, and Habitat for ership training. The Humanity Leadership Academy’s Leave Your Legacy.

Leadership Academy Belize (LAB) IV Leadership Challenge: Develop and curriculum deliberately implement Leadership Academy incorporates experienBelize (LAB) tial learning activities that correlate with the Table 2 leadership theory and are designed to challenge the learnPhase Facilitator Team Instructional Department er and foster growth in leadership skills. (See Table 1.)

I Cathy Bowen, Colin Syme FACS, Science Facilitating such a diverse and Jennifer Wagner, Johanna Rennhoff Special Education, World Language customized academy takes a great Fred Peskorski, Dan Zelinski Technology, Social Studies deal of work and a high level of II Mike Funfar, Jennifer Kirk Math, Counseling commitment from the teacherIII Doug Kirchner Social Studies facilitators. The 2012 leadership academy (Phases I, II, and III) Table 3 used nine facilitators from a variety of instructional disciplines ranging from AP Psychology to Family and Consumer Sciences to Counseling. (See Table 2.) The appeal of this high school program is evident by the growth in the overall number of participants. (See Table 3.)

Thanks to the continued support from the USC School Board and community at large, the students have been positively impacted by a program that is based upon the foundational concept: Who you are is how you lead. n

Spring Semester Enrollment Begins January 7, 2013

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Cultural Exchange Program Provides Connection Deborah Lynn Hanna

A wonderful cultural exchange between nine high school students from Tarquinia, Italy, a small ancient Etruscan town on the Tyrhennian Sea, and Upper St. Clair High School began just after Labor Day and finished Saturday, September 15. As the American English teacher who has been teaching and working with the nine young women, I can simply say that everything, absolutely everything, has been A+ from every point of view. The Upper St. Clair academic side of the project was coordinated through the kindness and capabilities of school counselor Dr. William (Bill) Rullo, while my dear sister, Becky Segerdahl, organized the host families and all the social activities. Each of the Italian students was graciously hosted by an Upper St. Clair family, which has now become the Italian students’ new American family. There seemed to be an immense amount of love and laughter coming from every teenage bedroom as the girls exchanged language, culture, and fashion in gales of giggles. Once quiet households have become filled with Italian vivaciousness.

The joint venture was kicked off when my niece, USC senior Julie Segerdahl, called me in Italy and said, “Aunt Deb, our high school has an active Foreign Exchange program and I’d like to be an ambassador to your English students.” That invitation was all I needed to get the ball rolling. I’ve been teaching English as a second language in Italy full time since 1999, kicking off my “new career” by working for the Italian military and improving their English skills for missions abroad. However, the origins of this project began much further back in time.

After having graduated from Stetson University in Deland, Florida, in humanities, I ventured to New York City to study modern dance at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance and completed my studies by performing with the Martha Graham Ensemble and the Avodah Dance Ensemble. Ten years went by quickly—living the life of a New York dancer—and it was time to change, so I headed off to India on a spiritual tour to reflect. At the end, I met a beautiful Italian man (of course, they all are!) and decided to drastically change my life by marrying him and moving to Italy . . . and thus began our real Italian-American joint venture.

Twenty years later, I find myself heading up a small language school in the center of this marvelous Italian landscape and have had the privilege of working with young, motivated students who realize how important English is for their future and invest precious hours outside of public school to improve their skills. Finally, after many years of cultivating students in good ol’ “American English,” through text books, we decided to give them a full immersion into real American teen life in Upper St. Clair with a regular high school class schedule, after school activities, family dinners, shopping excursions, bowling and game nights, and Panther football games as well as visits to downtown Pittsburgh, including the Andy Warhol museum and a Pirates game. Their response to everything has been so enthusiastic that I had a hard time coaxing them onto the plane back to Italy. They love the kindness from their host families and sisters, the grandeur of Upper St. Clair High School with its enthusiastic teachers, innovative teaching techniques, and marvelous facilities along with the variety of courses (Japanese, Chinese, Forensic Chemistry, Choir, Guitar, to name a few) and not to mention, the incredible beauty of the homes and USC Township itself.

In conclusion, I can only say that my own personal experience has taught me that the Italian-American connection is both complementary and enriching. Each culture seems to offer what the other one is missing.

United together, American organization, dynamism, and efficiency become poetic, loving, more spontaneous, and joyful! Thank you Upper St. Clair High School and the host families for your incredibly gracious hospitality.

We shall be waiting to roll out the red carpet in Tarquinia for you as you have done for us! n Your Italian Sisters and Daughters from Tarquinia, Italy, Deborah, Laura, Marta, Silvia, Gloria, Nadia, Elena, Sara, Lavinia, and Lavi Under the direction of their teacher, Deborah Lynn Hanna, the Italian exchange students were Laura Capotorti, Gloria Tomassini, Elena Micheli, Lavi Cardone, Lavinia Natali, Nadia Balistrocchi, Marta Sartori, Silvia Cesarini, and Sara Bicchierini. The American host sisters of Upper St. Clair were Mady Downs, Jordan Selep, Kat Kail, Julie Segerdahl, Ellie DiNardo, Sara Yerina, and Carolina and Francesca Cappetta.

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New Faces of World Language Shown here are some USCHS students who excel in foreign languages and who partake in language-related extracurricular activities.

Liz MacLean (IB French 5, Japanese 1, French Exchange program)

Learning a world language is so much more than knowing the words for “hello” or “goodbye,” and Upper St. Clair’s award-winning world language program is a great example of that! Each year, more students choose to study more than one world language and many students get involved with international activities.

If you wonder why so many students are choosing to broaden their horizons, consider the following facts about USC’s world language program: • Six-year winner of the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association’s Exemplary Program award (Most of the criteria focus on program offerings, use of proficiency assessments, and special programs.)

• Languages offered: elementary–Spanish; middle school–Spanish, French, German; high school–Spanish, French, German, Latin, Chinese, Japanese • International Studies course–a course in Pennsylvania that focuses on crosscultural communication and sensitivity • I n t e r n a t i o n a l E d u c a t i o n We e k (November 26-30 at USCHS, also observed at Boyce and Fort Couch) • B a y e r I n t e r n a t i o n a l M a r k e t i n g Competition (USC teachers helped found, and still sponsor, this regional award-winning program. Last year, 55 students participated in this extracurricular project.)

• German exchange and partner school with Leverkusen, Germany, since 1992 • French exchange and partner school with Lyons, France, since 2006 • New Spanish exchange and partner school with Madrid, Spain • Frequent student-sponsored trips to Italy and Greece, Spain, Japan, and China n

Tanner Murray (IB German 5, Japanese 1, Thai Exchange program)

David Duan (IB Spanish 5, Bayer International marketing project finalist)

Shannon Keane (IB French 5, IB Spanish 5, IB German 4, Chinese 1, Asian studies, tutored in Arabic)

Amanda Buckholt (IB German 5, International Studies, German Exchange program, Bayer International marketing project participant)

Alex LeClaire (IB German 5, Spanish 2, Latin 2) Alex helped found the high school’s Girl Child Network Club.

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Confessions of a Volleyball Mom Debbie Reynolds, USC Volleyball Mom

Seven and a half years ago, I watched my baby girl playing outside the window of our small school in Florida. Her fifth grade teacher, who was also the volleyball coach, had just asked her if she wanted to give volleyball a try.

Remembering the days of my own junior high gym volleyball experience, I was sneaking a peek more out of curiosity than anything else. Kelly picked up the ball, passed it back and forth with some girls a couple of times, and from that time she was hooked. Just like Wilson became the companion for Tom Hanks in the movie Cast Away, Kelly’s volleyball never left her side. All summer long, between shooting 10,000 baskets for basketball, Kelly hit and passed ball after ball on the side of Senior Kelly Reynolds (1) sets the ball the house. That fall, a newly formed volleyball team to junior Becca VanRyzin (28) as junior that had no gym to call home and traveled to all Sydney Slater (18) looks on Kelly Reynolds’ first volleyball match, August 2006 of their matches won the small Christian school’s conference for volleyball. Greater than the thrill physically prepare and make the team. Once tryouts concluded, of winning the championship, a seed had been planted that vol- pre-season officially started. A highlight of pre-season was having leyball was to become a major part of her life.

Junji Sato, a coach from Japan, come to work with the girls for We moved to Upper St. Clair in the fall of 2006, and the first a few days. The girls loved tutoring him with his English, while thing Kelly asked was if I could find her a volleyball program. he enjoyed refining their skills and participating in all-things And so the cycle began as it has for so many parents—school Pittsburgh. Who knew there would be a Pirates game, a Steelers sport season in the fall, club season in the spring, and camps game, and a Pitt game all while he was here? during the summer. As Kelly continued in her progression of The girls are a close-knit group after spending so much time skills, somewhere along the way, I officially became a volleyball together. Even with all of the time committed to practice, they also mom. I think I am as addicted to the sport as she is, and it is just enjoy spending time together off the court. Their annual trips to as much a part of my life!

Simmons Farm and Chuck E. Cheese create many memories, and Fast forward, and Kelly is now the senior setter and the cap- the tournaments, pasta dinners, and post-game stops at Sheetz tain on the Upper St. Clair High School Girls Volleyball team. are always full of humorous stories. The team gives back as they Under the direction of Coach Yoko Nagao, and assistants Missy host a Dig Pink match for breast cancer every year and donate Ferguson, Becky Meyers, and Brittny Smith, the Lady Panthers the proceeds to the Side-Out Foundation. Yoko also talks to the have compiled an impressive record since Yoko took over at the girls about character, pride, passion, and teamwork. The practice helm seven years ago. USC has won the WPIAL section title every shirts for this year are written in Japanese characters which read year for the past five years. The team made it to PIAA playoffs “One Mind, One Body.” in the 2007-08 season and has made it far into WPIAL playoffs For me, this season is bittersweet. Kelly is closing the chapter in each of the following seasons. After a strong class of seven on her high school volleyball career, but looking forward to the seniors graduated in 2012, Kelly is joined by fellow seniors Anna next one that will open as she moves on to the collegiate level.

Siegfried, Maya Craig, and Victoria Cavrich, all of whom have their What is most precious to me has been the relationships that eyes on the prize of the section title and WPIAL championship. have been formed and developed over the years, not only playerAlongside juniors Emily Casson, Sydney Slater, Becca VanRyzin, to-player, but between the coaches and the girls. The dynamics Mia Marion, Taylor Hayley, Taylor Rongaus, and Lisa Oxenrider, change every year as girls graduate or enter as freshmen, but the as well as freshmen Samantha Amos and Leah Kern, the team is coaches always create a special bond among the team, and the working very hard to keep the goals and traditions alive that were magic takes over from there. set forth by previous generations of Lady Panthers.

As this volleyball mom reflects upon the coaches that have All summer long, the girls affected Kelly’s life, I know that competed in the Thursday night she has been richly blessed. The Greentree Summer League. Durimpact that each of these women ing the month of July, the players has made on her has helped to and coaches offered two weeks of shape and develop her into the middle school camps for younger wonderful young woman that she girls to teach and develop skills has become. Thank you, Yoko, and promote a love of the game.

Missy, Becky, and Brittny. To me, The first week of August was that is the ultimate championship team camp, followed with tryouts win, and I am so thankful that I the following week. The girls have been along for the ride. n 2012 USCHS Girls’ Volleyball team worked every day, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. to 38

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t a t nt! c a i c n i a n a P P int! oi Po the P

Fireworks at Point State Park on the Fourth of July are a Pittsburgh tradition, but what if it was the scene of a bioterrorist attack? How would officials retrieve, test, and identify evidence, assess risk to the public, and identify those responsible Team members got together each afternoon for a debriefing. for the attack?

Students and teachers participating in the “Panic at the Point!” techniques used in research to kids in a friendly manner.

Linda Ortenzo, director of STEM programs, Carnegie Science workshop, held at Upper St. Clair High School the week of July 30, had the chance to answer these and other questions during a pilot Center, said the Carnegie Science Center is piloting this profesprogram that included hands-on science, technology, engineering, sional development workshop, funded in part by a grant from the and math (STEM) related activities. Heinz Endowments, with Upper St. Clair High School through The week started with teachers the Teacher Excellence Academy, which is part of the Chevron and students in grades nine through Center for STEM Education and Career Development.

Launched in November 2011, the Chevron STEM Center was 12 attending a mock press conference for Panic at the Point!, a mock backed by strong financial support from Chevron and founding bioterrorist attack that occurred dur- partners California University of Pennsylvania, Duquesne Light, ing a fireworks display at Point State Eaton Corporation, LANXESS Corporation, NOVA Chemicals, Park. The fireworks, contaminated and PPG Industries Foundation. The Chevron STEM Center is with shrapnel and biological agents, driven by four goals: collaboration, inspired learning, committed exploded over the crowd. The mis- community, and great teaching.

USCHS principal Dr. Michael Ghilani said the Science Center sion of students and teachers was to retrieve and test any unexploded did a wonderful job of professional development in addition to material, identify the contaminants, doing a great job tying the three lab entities into one storyline.

Ghilani is an enthusiastic proponent of STEM education. Dawn access the risk of exposure to the crowd, and identify the perpetrator. Mostowy, a science teacher at the high school, has been working Teams of students were in one to include more real world connections in the curriculum at USC, of three labs—robotics, chemistry, and the District’s STEM committee has visited other high schools Teacher Fred Peskorski watches or biotechnology—where they de- that have some of the top STEM programs in the country. students’ programming efforts.

High school personnel have been working with the District’s signed and built robots to retrieve unexploded material, tested the metals and other samples, ana- director of advancement, Liz Hall, to development partnerships lyzed the evidence, and debriefed each other for information. supporting STEM programs. Money raised from the USC School Teachers participated in many of the same activities, learning District’s second annual “Celebrate Our Schools” Gala, which inquiry-based, hands-on teaching methods to bring back to the was held on October 20, will be used for USC School District technology initiatives. classroom.

Gala funds will be used toward a STEM center comprising STEM professionals were on site to add real world context and exposure to STEM careers such as epidemiology, robotics, three labs—robotics/engineering, chemistry/material science, and chemical engineering, and crime scene investigation. Instruc- biotechnology—where students will have the chance to work with tors for each lab included an Upper St. Clair teacher, a Science real world partners. “It wouldn’t replace current science classes,” Center staff member, and STEM master’s program students from said Dr. Ghilani, “but would provide additional opportuCalifornia University of Pennsylvania.

Fred Peskorski, technology studies teacher at USCHS, was in nities for all students.”

Dr. Ghilani said, “The the robotics lab, teaching students about the use of VEX robots, a robotics design system intended to introduce students and adults goal is to bring USC STEM to the world of robotics. “Building the robots is fairly simple,” to fruition and act as a resaid Peskorski. “Programming is more difficult because you have gional resource.” n to break each task into individual elements, but the kids are pretty good at it.”

Turner Queen, a USCHS freshman, said he’s learned that when programming a robot you have to decide what you want the robot to do, and then figure out the steps you need to take to do the task.

Senior Anisah Rafi said being in the biotechnology lab during the workshop provided a good way to explore new concepts and thought it would Putting the robot through its paces help her focus on what field of study she wanted to pursue in college.

USCHS biology teacher Dr. Colin Syme said Turner Queen gets advice on programming his robot. the workshop offered an opportunity to bring real Winter 2012

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Pawprints... a USC PTA Council Highlight Council

Throughout the year, the PTAs at the schools in Upper St. Clair do a tremendous job highlighting the importance of student participation in outreach to the community.

Many of the outreach programs were done on a school-by-school basis, but recently, attempts have been made by the schools to partner with each other to identify common recipients. For example, Baker joined Eisenhower in supporting the Kelly School, an elementary school in Wilkinsburg. This year all of the PTAs in the District made a commitment to work together towards a common outreach goal. The recipient chosen for the schools’ combined efforts was the Education Partnership, which provides school supplies to teachers and students in lower income districts. Each of the PTAs felt strongly that the mission of the Education Partnership coincided with their unit’s outreach objectives. The schools plan to schedule fundraisers throughout the year whose proceeds will go to the Education Partnership.

Fort Couch Middle School

Fort Couch students are involved in many community outreach projects. You will often hear of an individual student raising money for a cause, see students selling “Cupcakes for Cancer,” or hear about student council collecting gently used toys for a day care center. Every year, the whole school participates in “Reach Out,” a holiday fundraising project. Reach Out began 21 years ago as a means of involving students in sharing with those in our area that are less fortunate and in need.

The project is spearheaded by the Fort Couch student council and each student is encouraged to earn and raise money.

The faculty and the PTA are also involved and the money is used locally to provide families with gift cards from Giant Eagle and to support a charity designated by student council.

Boyce Middle School

At Boyce, the Outreach Committee is always hard at work organizing various projects with the students, faculty, and parents to help local area centers whose purpose is aiding those in need. Two projects that Boyce students worked on 40

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include a third annual coat drive and “Sweets for Seniors.” Gently used coats were donated by Boyce students and given to South Hills Interfaith Ministries (SHIM).

These coats were distributed to families in need during the first two weekends in November. Boyce’s goal this year was to collect over 200 coats. Sweets for Seniors also took place the first two weeks in November when kids brought in some, or all, of their Halloween loot to a collection box in the office. The candy was sorted, organized, and given to senior facilities throughout the South Hills.

Baker Elementary

The students at Baker have had many opportunities to experience the Baker Gives Back tradition. Bakers Outreach chairs, Kate Mayberry and Kathryn Teresi, have led many fruitful and appreciated programs for the past two school years.

The students were able to participate throughout the school years in the following events.

• Each fall, a food drive is held for SHIM. The students contributed over 2000 pounds (one ton) of food to stock SHIM’s pantry.

• Baker partnered with a local school in need. Three drives were conducted: ‣‣ Used books and handmade bookmarkers were collected at the annual book sale. ‣‣ New or used cold weather clothes, boots, hats, and mittens were collected. ‣‣ A sports equipment drive was held.

• During the holidays, thank you notes and cards were designed and delivered to our local USC public service personnel, including those working in the post office and the public works, fire, and police departments.

• “Soup for the Troops” and postcards were sent overseas.

• Money was raised for a Haiti Mission that Baker’s own Christine Hestwood was visiting. Baker students collected enough money to provide four children with tuition and many students with composition books. The students all wrote notes to Haiti students in English.

With the teachers’ help, the students typed the letters into a translation program during classroom Tech Lab time Winter 2012

into native Creole. The notes were then glued into composition books that were distributed to Haitian students.

• A successful coin drive contributed to the “Seeds for Change Earth Day” project. Over $800 was raised, which bought 8000 seedlings to be planted in the Amazon Rainforest, near Sao Paulo,

by Trees for the Future.

• In November, a “Tools for a Change” coin drive supported the Education Partnership.

Baker has truly given each student an opportunity to give back to their own community as well as communities far and wide. The lessons learned by “giving back” through the Outreach Program will, hopefully, become lifelong memories!

Eisenhower Elementary

Eisenhower takes great pride in a kidcentered outreach program that not only involves the students in outreach efforts, but also gives parents a way to model helping those in need. The generosity of the Eisenhower family is truly amazing!

• Parent volunteer Chrissy Sileo expanded the school’s outreach efforts this year by forming a partnership with the Kelly Elementary School in Wilkinsburg. The Eisenhower PTA assisted the school in developing its own PTO and guided them in assessing fundraising opportunities. Families from Eisenhower participated in multiple collections to assist the school with identified needs ranging from school supplies to personal hygiene items.

• In November and December, the school partners with the Pittsburgh Doubletree Hotel in a food drive by providing food to South Hills Interfaith Ministries (SHIM) for the holiday season. The drive kicks off with an assembly presented by SHIM and the Doubletree Hotel. The food is delivered by the hotel vans and staff to families in the South Hills.

• In the winter, the school holds its annual “Hat and Mitten Tree.” The manmade tree is placed in the main office and students come down and place their donations on the tree. This year, the proceeds will be offered to the Kelly School.

Pawprints...

• The year ends with the “Rebuilding To g e t h e r P i t t s b u rg h ” p ro j e c t .

Eisenhower and the Pittsburgh Doubletree Hotel again partner for this project and sponsor a home, where repairs and renovations are completed so that someone less fortunate remains warm and safe. Together parents and staff, with the support of the students, have made this program a success for the fifth year in a row!

Streams Elementary

The Streams Outreach Committee has assisted local charities each year with donations from the generous families at Streams. The committee chooses a local charity that is highlighted at each of the Special Level Grade Nights throughout the school year. One charity that Streams has supported is Stuffed Animals for Emergencies (SAFE). Families coming to their Special Level Night are asked to donate gently used stuffed animals to this non-profit organization. The stuffed animals that are collected for SAFE are then given to first responders in emergency, traumatic, or stressful situations.

Carrie Dunbar, a Streams second grade teacher, worked closely with the Outreach Committee this past spring to collect dresses, suits, shirts, ties, and pants that were donated to Children’s Hospital for their annual Spring Prom for inpatients.

The hospital provides a mini boutique “The Dress Shop” in the hospital where the inpatient children and their families can choose prom attire to wear to the big event. Carrie brought this wonderful event to the attention of the Streams community.

Streams collection contributed to the more than 350 dresses and suits that were offered to the inpatient children attending the Prom at Children Hospital.

The Outreach Committee at Streams also works closely with the Children for Children Silent Auction group that focuses on choosing a charity that helps children, teaching the students about the children that are in need, and involving the students so that they can make a difference. This school year, Stream’s Children for Children Silent Auction will be held on February 21, 2013. n

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USC teacher wins $2000 Grant for Learning Project High school science teacher Colin Syme returned to school this fall with a $2000 ING Unsung Heroes grant.

The award recognizes the nation’s most innovative educators, and Syme is one of 100 winners across the country who is receiving this award to help bring his idea “Zebra Fish: A Tool For Project-Based Learning” to life.

Syme’s winning program engages students using zebra fish as cross-curricular tools for inquiry. Zebra fish are vertebrates and possess genetic similarity to humans.

Students will explore several lines of study including housing and breeding, basic cell development, embryology, genetics, physiology, and molecular biology, studying embryological and cellular development in response to different environmental and chemical factors. Students will also observe and study the internal anatomy of transparent zebra fish variants, allowing for the measurement of physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiration, and blood flow.

They will perform genetic crosses of different types of zebra fish and conduct embryonic manipulation, using several different methodologies. The goal of the “Zebra Fish” project is to engage students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related projects and encourage them to take a more active role in their learning by exploring diverse real-world questions and acquiring skills to be successful in future laboratory settings.

Panther Marching Band Hosts Festival The Upper St. Clair High School “Panther” Marching Band held its annual band festival on Saturday, September 22 at USCHS stadium.

Bands from Brashear, Chartiers-Houston, Thomas Jefferson, and Canon-McMillan High Schools performed along with USC. Robert Morris University’s Jam Blues Marching Band wowed the crowd as the festival’s featured band.

Ralph Munn Finalists USCHS student Madison Chafin was a finalist in the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Ralph Munn Contest. Two 2012 graduates were also finalists: Ilya Yashin and Vinay Viswanathan. The contest, which has categories for poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction, was advertised and promoted by high school librarians Janine Despines and Debbie Rentschler and the USC Township librarians. The contest is funded by an endowment from former Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh director Ralph Munn and the finalists’ works were published in Ralph Munn Writing Anthology 2012.

School District Administration Connects with Senior Citizens Upper St. Clair School District administrators recently connected with many of the senior citizens in the community at the USC United Senior Citizens luncheon on Wednesday, September 12. Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools, reviewed how reduced federal and state funding, as well as pension obligations, have impacted the District’s budget. Dr. O’Toole also shared a copy of the June 2012 issue of e-BLAST, a digital newsletter posted monthly to the School District’s website Dr. Patrick O’Toole www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.

Dr. Sharon Suritsky, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Judith Bulazo, Director of Curriculum & Professional Development, presented information regarding how today’s classrooms are made up of a very diverse student population and how instruction targets student needs.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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P INEBRI DGE 1580 McLaughlin Run Rd Pittsburgh PA 15241

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Davin Interiors

Piccolina’s Restaurant

Design Image Salon, Joe Ruffalo

Questa Petroleum Co.

Emma’s Market & Deli, Inc.

Eric J. Reitz DMD &

Peter Gialames & Associates

Beth Troy, DMD

Interior Designs/Furnishings

Richardson Family

by Mary Kay Chaffee

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Our primary goal is to give your child positive memories that instill lifelong hygiene habits.

State Farm Insurance

Jimcor Associates, Inc.

Suburban Dry Cleaners

Timothy Kerr, DMD &

Surgical Product Solutions

Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

TEC Marketing & Entertainment

Larry E. Manalo, DMD Pediatric Alliance

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Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent.

Wininsky Law Offices

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

COMMONS FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

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. . .O N E S TO P C O N V E N I E N C E The orthodontic office of Dr. Eric Reitz and Dr. Beth Troy provides care for the communities of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and the South Hills of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Reitz and Dr. Troy take the time to place and adjust braces on every patient, giving individualized attention in a caring environment.

A World of Holiday Magic!

Schedule your complimentary consultation today!

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

• Individualized care in a friendly and patient-focused environment • Convenient appointment hours, including Saturday mornings • 24-hour emergency services • Most major insurance plans accepted

‘Tis the season when all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks are transformed into the “Merriest Places on Earth.” From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party* at Magic Kingdom Park, to a Candlelight Processional at Epcot , to millions of synchronized twinkling lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park — every corner of the “world” immerses you in holiday magic! There’s no better place to feel the holiday spirit than at the Walt Disney World Resort! ®

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GS2012-8484 ©Disney

Travel Leaders (412) 221-6772

Winter 2012

1580 Mc Laughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair PA 15241 jkiernan@travelleaders.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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T

Township Commissioners Robert W. Orchowski

President, Ward 3 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-854-1868 2015*

Russell R. Del Re

Vice President, Ward 5 Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-287-9076 2015*

Nicholas J. Seitanakis Ward 1

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-220-4434 2015*

Donald P. Rectenwald, Jr. Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-833-3328 2013*

Mark D. Christie Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000 2013*

Glenn R. Dandoy At-Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-944-3957 2015*

Daniel R. Paoly At-Large

Day 412-831-9000 Evening 412-862-5995 2013*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Highlights of the Board Of Commissioners’ Meetings June 4, 2012

Approximately 10 people attended.

The Board • Continued Public Hearing re: PLC12-0001–Willowbrook Estates PRD Tentative Approval to the regular meeting of the Board of July 2, 2012.

• Continued Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution for Plan Revision for New Land Development (Planning Module) for PLC12-0001–Willowbrook Estates PRD to the regular meeting of the Board of July 2, 2012.

• Approved the following reappointments to various Boards and Commissions, with terms expiring as follows: Board/Commission Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board

Name

Term Expires

Robert Stevens, Jr.

12/31/2014

Library Board

Doreen Hurley

12/31/2014

Planning Commission

Todd Burlingame

12/31/2015

Youth Steering Committee

Susan Speer

05/31/2016

Zoning Hearing Board

Leo Jon Grogan

12/31/2014

Zoning Hearing Board-Alternate 1

Gregg R. Zegarelli

12/31/2014

Zoning Hearing Board-Alternate 2

Robin Weissert

12/31/2014

• Approved Resolution No. 1541 to fill one vacancy and appoint two alternate members to the Zoning Hearing Board.

Approval of Contract Approved the following contract in accordance with the Township Code: • Sports and Recreation Associations (Miracle Recreation Equipment Company) Apollo, PA............................................................. $42,200 Municipal Tot Playground Structure COSTARS Program Price)

July 2, 2012

Approximately 15 people attended.

The Board • Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC12-0001–Willowbrooke Estates PRD Tentative Approval to the regular meeting of the Board on August 6, 2012.

• Continued Recommendation Re. Adoption of Resolution for Plan Revision for New Land Development (Planning Module) for PLC12-0001–Willowbrooke Estates PRD to the regular meeting of the Board on August 6, 2012.

• Adopted Resolution 1543 to approve the transfer of Restaurant Liquor License No. R-10359 from Lemont Contract Dining, Inc., Beulah Road, Penn Hills, into the Township of Upper St. Clair, to Bonefish Grill Restaurant, at South Hills Village Mall, 1835 Washington Road.

• Adopted Bill No. 5-12 to grant Final Planned Development Approval to the Ardolino Development Plan Revised located at 1141 Boyce Road, Block/Lot Number 571-P-85 and 2585 Maple Lane, Block/Lot Number 571-P-65, subject to certain conditions.

• Approved Resolution No. 1544 establishing the date of Tuesday, September 4, 2012, for a Public Hearing on a proposed amendment to Chapter 130 of the Code of the Township, entitled “Zoning” to establish an “Airport Hazard Overlay Zoning District” to include purposes of the district, definitions, airport zones, restrictions, nonconforming uses, variances, conflicting regulations, and amending the official zoning map by the adoption of an official supplementary airport hazard overlay zoning map.

• Approved Resolution 1542 authorizing the filing of an application for funds with the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development for the purchase and installation of ADA sliding doors with threshold at the Recreation/Senior Center located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Road.

• Approved the submission of three letters to ALCOSAN regarding acknowledgement of the Complex Sewershed Draft Feasibility Study.

Approval of Contract Approved the following contract in accordance with the Township Code: • Gabe Hudock McMurray, PA..................................................... $280,500 Sale of Morrow Road Property Lot & Block No. 395-E-201

August 6, 2012

Approximately 68 people attended.

The Board • Approved Decision No. USC-PRD 4-2012 Re. PLC12-0001– Willowbrooke Estates PRD Tentative Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1545 to approve the Plan Revision for New Land Development (Planning Module) for PLC120001–Willowbrooke Estates PRD. • Continued Public Hearing RE. PLC12-0009–Norman Centre Parking Area Revisions–Unified Conditional Use/ Preliminary and Final Land Development to the Regular Board meeting of September 4, 2012.

• Adopted Resolution 1547 to approve the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for 2013-2017.

Approval of Contract Approved the following contract in accordance with the Township Code: • Dom Folino Construction Pittsburgh, PA....................................................... $79,899 Demolition of Mayview Park Barn

2012-13 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates • The Board of Commissioners meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The regular public meeting is held the first Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room. The informational and general affairs meeting is held the last Monday of the month in the Board Meeting Room.

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

www.twpusc.org

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

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

• The Civil Service Board meets as needed.

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

• The Library Board meets as needed.

All business regarding the operation of the Township is conducted at the regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners.

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

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Sergeant Williams Retires from Police Force

The end of 2012 brings with it the retirement of Sgt. Bob Williams from Upper St. Clair’s Police Department.

Bob was hired in 1974, along with Lt. Jim Englert and Peters Township Police Chief Harry Fruecht, and sent to the police academy before working as a patrolman, which was the department’s practice at that time. In 1986, he was promoted to sergeant.

A polygraph examiner, Bob also served as juvenile officer off and on for 15 years.

In addition to an associate’s degree and ongoing training, he attended the FBI National Academy in 1998.

While Bob said that he will miss the camaraderie with his fellow officers and the citizens of USC Township when he’s retired, he is looking forward to having more time to golf.

And he’s not done serving the USC residents; Bob plans to work as a substitute bus driver with the USC School District, where his wife, Barb, is employed as a teacher. n

Keep America Beautiful Recycling Bins at USC The Township of Upper St. Clair

recently received 24 Keep America Beautiful (KAB) recycling bins for placement throughout the Township’s parks. The KAB bins placement has primarily been concentrated in the Township’s municipal park located on McLaughlin Run Road. Additional bins have also been located in neighborhood parks, athletic fields, and auxiliary areas within the Township. The bins were made possible thanks to a grant by the Coca-Cola Foundation and Keep America Beautiful.

America Recycles Day Just Passed It may be a bit late to gear up for celebrating “America

Recycles Day” now, but it is never too late to be aware of what it is all about. Each November 15, America celebrates a time of opportunity for those who have been eagerly recycling.

You have been actively seeking to learn about recycling and doing your best to limit the amount of trash on a personal level.

Good for you, you get it! Now, the task at hand is to spread the good word about recycling and the benefits that it brings to the community and the environment.

“America Recycles Day,” a program of “Keep America Beautiful,” is the only nationally-recognized day dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the United States. This could be a great opportunity to resolve to be a more conscientious person for recycling. You can go one step further and go online to www.AmericaRecyclesDay.org and “take the pledge.” There are suggestions available that can appeal to anyone. Take the pledge, learn more about recycling, and pass it on to others. This is how recycling efforts can grow in our community. Take the time now and learn to recycle! n

Grant recipients were chosen by Keep America Beautiful based on a number of criteria, including level of need, recycling experience, and the ability for applicants to sustain their program in the future. The Township will be keeping a record of the impact this has on recycling as a requirement of the program. The Township asks that all park visitors use the blue KAB bins for their recyclable items.

The Township is looking forward to having a successful recycling campaign in Upper St. Clair. Help us out and pitch in! n

Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your homeowner’s coverage The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer lines.

There is no way to predict when the next sanitary sewer backup will occur.

And while only a handful of our residents experience a significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating if a resident is not insured for losses—losses that can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars.

Sewer Backup Insurance Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences. Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage.

Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect a sanitary sewer problem, contact the Township’s Public Works Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 271.

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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USC TOWNSHIP

BULLETIN BOARD W i n t e r

2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3

Dog Owners Pennsylvania law requires owners to obtain dog licenses

by January 1 of each year.

Violations can result in fines 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.

Deer Management Update

The Township has partnered with Whitetail Management Associates and contracted with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an alltime high number of reported deer vehicle collisions (207).

The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts and last year saw the reported accidents drop to 67. The deer population in some areas of the Township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities in other portions of the Township there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to reduce the deer vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level.

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

You are invited to participate in the

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

Township of without Upper decorations, St. Clair’s Bring your tree, Christmas Tree upper Recycling to the YMCA parkingProject! lot December 26 — January 21, 2013.

The trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use.

Please remove all plastic tree bags!

For more information, call 412-831-9000, extension 271 or visit www.twpusc.org.

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

The Allegheny County application is available at: • the Upper St. Clair Police Department • the Upper St. Clair Reception Desk • online at: www.county.allegheny.pa.us/treasure/dog.aspx The Upper St. Clair license, which should be obtained

by January 15 of each year, is a “Pet License.”

Chapter 41 of the Township Code defines a pet as “any dog, cat, or other domesticated animal kept for pleasure rather than utility.”

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

2012-2013 Trash and Recycling Holiday Collection Week of Thanksgiving Day Friday, November 23 Week of Christmas Thursday, December 27; Friday, December 28 Week of New Year’s Thursday, January 3; Friday, January 4

2012 Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable paper bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up.

The final collections will take place on the following two Saturdays: November 17 and December 1.

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Learning Lab Learning Lab

Nowhere in Particular Nowhere in Particular

Miracle Field Miracle Field

The map of Boyce Mayview Park has recently been updated to include trails, facilities, and amenities added since the original map was produced in 2009. Use this complimentary map, which can also be found online at www.twpusc.org/magazine under “features,” as your new reference while investigating the park.

You can also pick up a larger map—while supplies last—at USC’s Township or Public Works buildings, or at The Outdoor Classroom.

Happy hiking!

Winter 2012

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T Adult Department Summer Reading Wrap Up Both patrons and staff enjoyed the end of summer reading ice cream social. Thanks go out to the Friends of the Library who generously supplied the refreshments for this event and who provided additional prizes for those attending.

Congratulations to the following lucky summer readers whose reading tickets won gift certificates donated by local restaurants. And many thanks to the restaurants for donating these gifts!

Winner Donor__________ Carolyn Boyd Piccolina’s Penny Caswell Atria’s Kathy Kasunich StonePepper’s Grill Rachel Kudrav Mitchell’s Lilia Pries China Gate Restaurant Traci Stunek StonePepper’s Grill Marjorie Thomas DeLallo’s

Library staff Helen Palascak and Susan Latshaw serve up an ice cream sundae to Joan Smith.

Cozy up with Jane (and Paula!)

Are you a Jane Austen addict? Do your ears prick up at the word Pemberley? Even if you are not truly obsessed, the library’s new book discussion group may be just your cup of tea. Enjoy a spirited discussion of an Austen novel paired with a contemporary Austen-esque work. Of course, tea and dainty cakes will be served.

About our Discussion Leader Paula Holmes has been a Jane Austen fan since high school and often quotes her. She has her Master of Library Science degree from Pitt and currently serves as a Trustee for the library and as an American Library Association Division Chair for Library Services for Special Population Children and their Caregivers.

Jane Austen

Food For Life, with Janet McKee Nutrition and Cooking Class Series

“How Foods Fight Illness” • January 10: Intro to How Foods Fight Cancer and Diabetes • January 17: Fabulous Low Fat High Fiber Foods • January 24: Delicious Dairy and Meat Alternatives • January 31: Antioxidants and Balance Weight Naturally Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m.

Library Multipurpose Room Janet McKee $50 for the complete series Contact the library for registration and payment information.

Jack and Judy Day select their toppings.

Discussion Books for 2013 Thursday, February 7, 10-11 a.m Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen and Jane Bites Back by Michael Thomas Ford Thursday, March 7, 10-11 a.m Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen and All Roads Lead to Austen by Amy Elizabeth Smith Sneak Peak: the 2013 Author Luncheon–“Lunch with Jane” St. Clair Country Club A Saturday in April Laura Engel, associate professor of English at Duquesne University, and Amy Elizabeth Smith, author of All Roads Lead to Austen, will share their insights into Jane Austen’s world.

Discussion books

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UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

T Adult Department Be a Library FRIEND— Join Friends of the Library For a small yearly contribution, just $5 for your whole family, you can show your support for the USC Township Library and join Friends of the Library. Your financial contribution will help fund materials and activities that enhance the quality of the the library’s experience for everyone.

If you are interested in meeting a great group of people and having a lot of fun, too, you can volunteer a bit of your time to help with Friends’ projects. The Friends are looking for active members right now to help with their ongoing work related to the annual used book sale. Do you have a free hour or two to share?

What do Friends volunteers do?

• Collect materials donated during the monthly first Saturday collections • Run the annual used book sale in May • Keep the Friends bookcases in the library filled for ongoing sales Why do they do it?

• To provide support for special library programs and materials that enhance the library experience for the entire community How can you help?

• To join, use this membership form or pick one up in the library at your convenience. You will be contacted if you indicate that you also want to volunteer your time helping in some way.

Upcoming Adult Programs

Check out some recent purchases the Friends helped in funding: • On the kids floor  Lego table  Pyramid book displayer  Computer station chairs  Leaf tables  Adult seating in the Play to Learn area  Toys for the Play to Learn area  Tables in the story room • For the meeting room  One touch folding tables  Stacking chairs • On the second floor  New carpeting  Computer stations  Staff service desks  Book sale corner slatwall

(Programs begin at 7 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Call the library to register.)

November 29: Afternoon Fall Tea Presented by Ben Lodico of Edward Jones and Karen Timko, certified elder law attorney with Julian Gray Associates.

Financial goals and legal concerns as they relate to retirement will be addressed. Bring your teacup and your questions. (1-3 p.m.)

December 3: Massage Therapy Presented by Massage Envy South Park Come learn and experience the benefits of massage therapy. Five-minute chair massages will be offered to everyone at the event.

December 10: Life in Balance Presented by Kelly Haywiser, certified wellness/life coach at Holistic Approach 4 Life Learn how to find balance through 12 interconnecting aspects of your life that contribute to overall wellness.

(Left to right) Mary Leonardi, Ken Leonardi, Mark Puskar, Alex Partain, Barbara St. Clair, Mary Jane Cover, and Jackie Bialosky took a break from sorting books during a recent first Saturday collection.

Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair Membership Form Yes, I agree that Upper St. Clair Township Library is a valuable resource in my community. I would like to help support its programs and services. Please accept my tax-deductible donation of:

December 13: Celebrate the Holidays Presented by South Hills Brass Join us for a fun evening of uplifting holiday ensemble music. All ages invited!

Holiday Music Event

Celebrate the holidays on Thursday, December 13 at 7 p.m. Join the South Hills Brass for an evening of holiday music for all ages in the library meeting room. Punch and cookies will be served.

$ _______ $5 per household + $ _______ (additional donation) = $ _______ Total Date:_____________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________ Phone:____________________________________________________________ Email:____________________________________________________________ I would like to become a Friends volunteer. Call me. Thank you.

Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Winter 2012

Left to right are South Hills Brass members Gary McKeever, trumpet; Steve Lynch, trombone; Scott McClain, tuba; Mike Langiewicz, French horn; Rich Pantaleo, trumpet

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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T Kids Department s help with Dear Librarian, y daughter need m at th e m ld to r My child’s teache help her?

Parent sion. How can I en eh pr m co Understanding reading ting those words, t, recognition possible and connec rd Dear Understanding Paren wo kes ma t tha e cod etic words that they do cking the alphab s are so focused on decoding der Learning to read involves cra rea ng you es tim me So construct meaning. sentences, and paragraphs to nections between mean. rds wo Good readers make those con g. kin thin not understand what the and , nce erie exp , help kground knowledge at they’re reading. You can Comprehension involves bac themselves questions about wh ask ey the text Th if g. ce, din tan rea ins r are y Fo the s. text to her experience the what they know and what in ts cep con the te rela d trip, relate it and helping her . If she’s never been on a fiel took she t your child by reading with her tha trip d fiel a s ber r child if she remem mentions a field trip, ask you there are pictures in to an interesting place. en l for readers. It’s the reason skil nt to a trip that you have tak orta imp r the ano is g you are readin The ability to visualize what ke their own mental pictures. e better readers they will ma ks and chapter books. om bec y the s A ks. boo der read both longer pictures boo rea ly can ear u Yo ld. chi r you to d can relate parts to continue to rea ut. Then as you’re reading you I would also encourage you abo is k boo the k thin h bot d way to practice about what you book to your child is also a goo r pte Before you begin reading, talk cha a ng adi Re . ld’s chi s or that of your of the story to your experience for both you and make it an enjoyable activity to nt making mental pictures. orta imp s It’ e. tim r read happens ove nt for learning.

Remember that learning to will create a better environme you fun ing hav and xed your child. If you are rela reading and books. you with your questions about As always, we’re here to help Sincerely, n Debra Conn, Your Libraria

Learning to Read Tips for Parents of Kids in Kindergarten and First Grade

Streams Wins First USC Library Summer Kids Read! Challenge

At the end of the 2011-12 school year, the Upper St. Clair Township Library offered the students at the three USC elementary schools a direct challenge: join the Library’s Kids Read! Program and read your school to victory.

The competition was based on winning at least two of the three criteria: 1) kids registering for the program, 2) kids participating by reading and reporting on their library books, and 3) total number of books read.

Streams Elementary won based on the most number of participants and the highest number of total books read. Streams library can now proudly display its reading trophy for a great summer of reading. The Streams library also received five books that were selected by the students and Nancy Trau, the school’s librarian.

Learn: • Activities that will help your child get ready to read.

• Tips for helping your beginning reader.

Are you in interested?

• If so, set up an appointment. Stop in the library or call 412-835-5540.

• Plan to spend approximately one-half hour in the library.

Kids Read! Results School

Registrants Readers

Books Read

Baker

148

109

1667

Eisenhower 169

120

1784

Streams

130

1994

50

158

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Registration for Kids Read! increased by five percent over last year and the number of books read increased by nine percent. Congratulations to all kids who read with the library this summer!

T Kids Department Upcoming Children’s Classes

Weekend Fun at the Library

Story Weekend

This winter, the Upper St. Clair Township Library will offer a wide variety of classes for children of all ages. The popular storytime sessions will begin on Monday, January 14 and run through Friday, February 22. This six-week series will offer children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers many opportunities to visit the library, hear stories, and have a good time. Registration for classes begins Thursday, January 3. A complete list and all program information can be found at the library or online at www.twpusc.org/library.

Come to the library on the weekends and experience great programs and classes!

The library staff will offer a variety of craft weekends to celebrate late winter and early spring holidays. Children are also invited to come to the library and attend the monthly Building Weekends where they can experiment with Legos ® , Lincoln Logs, and different types of blocks. As always, consult the library website or visit the library’s Kids Department for complete program information.

Families with children of all ages Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Sundays, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(Dates to be announced)

Babies & Toddlers Children ages 4 to 24 months with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Mondays or Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

Twos & Threes Children 2 to 3 ½ years of age with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Tuesdays, 11 a.m.

Wednesdays, 10 or 11 a.m.

Thursdays, 10 a.m.

Pre-School Storytime Children 3 ½, 4, or 5 years of age who are ready to spend a half hour on their own Thursdays, 1:45 p.m.

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

Math Mites Children 4 and 5 years of age who are not yet attending Kindergarten Wednesdays, 1:30 or 2:30 p.m.

Library Explorers: Math & Science Children who are currently in Kindergarten Tuesdays, 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m.

BookTrek: All About Art Children in 1st–4th grades Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 4 p.m.

Chess Class with Eric Berthoud Children in Kindergarten–8th grade Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Family Storytime Children 2–7 years of age with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Tuesdays, 7 p.m. on January 22, February 19, and March 19

I love to read!

Book and Bowl activity, sponsored by the Upper St. Clair Township Library

USC Township Library Hours Monday–Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Outside book and video return available 24/7. Items collected daily at 9 a.m.

The library closes at 5 p.m. on November 21 and is closed on November 22 and November 23 (Thanksgiving); is closed December 24 and December 25 (Christmas); and closes at 1 p.m. on December 31 and is closed January 1 (New Year’s).

www.twpusc.org/library Winter 2012

412-835-5540

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T It’s All About Balance Jessica Kester, Program Manager, The Outdoor Classroom We can all relate to the pressures and demands of a busy life. The hustle and bustle of our daily routines begin with the annoyance of the alarm in the morning, or even earlier if you’re like me and wake up in the middle of the night with a new idea that has to be jotted down before it’s forgotten. The day then flies by non-stop until we lie down for a few scarce hours of sleep.

www.TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org

in 2013 as the staff introduces new programs to focus on you!

Our In Balance Series will bring in experts in the fields of meditation, aromatherapy, organic teas and honey, massage, floral arrangement, gardening, environmental health, and more. We’ll build indoor planted oases during our Wonderland Gardens programs and explore the fun and daring world of adventure races with our first ever Pizza Party Adventure Day! We’ll have help from our friends at the Pittsburgh Area Geocaching Association for four geocaching events including the brand new Mother-Daughter Geocaching and Geo-Pupping programs.

Celebrate Mother’s Day a week early this year on May 4, as moms and daughters from all over Pittsburgh join together to enjoy the Boyce Mayview Park’s beautiful spring flowers and some special caches! This is a great program for mothers and daughters of all ages. Then bring your four-legged friend to the park on August 17, and hunt for special dog-friendly caches! Geocaching is great for the whole family whether you’ve cached before or are new to this fun and fast growing sport.

Adults aren’t the only ones with hectic schedules, so in 2013 we’ll be engaging the tweens and teens as well. On April 27, we’ll run Things to Do with Kids Outside: a Babysitter’s Guide.

This course will guide babysitters in how to safely encourage Late summer fun, finding snakes outdoor and unstructured play with the children they’re watching. Unstructured and outdoor play has been shown to play a large role in childhood Surprisingly, well maybe not really Making snow angels development, and it’s something not many a surprise but more of a statement of children have time to do anymore. As you regretful fact, this type of “go go go” snuggle up with a book this winter, you may lifestyle is not good for us, our children, want to read Richard Louv’s Last Child in the or even the environment. For that reaWoods and compare your childhood and the son, The Outdoor Classroom decided daily life of your child or grandchild to what that its theme in 2013 will be “balance.”

Louv has termed the “nature deficit disorder.”

Yes, of course, The Outdoor Classroom If you’ve met me or read any of my previwill be focusing on balancing your daily routine with earth friendlier choices, but we’ll also be focusing ous articles you may have figured out by now that my childhood on balancing your life—making time for you, your spouse, and was in no way deprived of outdoor experiences. That is something your children to carve out a precious piece of the day to improve I really want to pass on to children today; whether you’re two or your body, your spirit, and the connections between you and the ones you love.

Now wait a minute, I know you’re thinking that we may be stepping outside of our mission at The Outdoor Classroom of connecting people with the natural world by focusing on your well being, but really, we’re not.

Honest! Nature is a built-in care giver.

It can help to lower stress, decrease b l o o d p re s s u re , improve concentration, motivate Building an igloo you to exercise, and Massive sycamore tree can hold us all even to nurture family bonds. Join The Outdoor Classroom 52

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Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS Let my over 25 years of experience go to work for you.

Shelter building in the snow

92, we all need a little nature. I hope to see you on the trails or at one of The Outdoor Classroom programs.

As we busy ourselves with the commotion that winter brings, be sure to share a little nature with the ones you love. Play in a pile of leaves, hike a forested trail, or simply snuggle up on the porch with some hot chocolate and watch the snowfall as you take time to enjoy the beauty of the season. We’ll be here, in the park with plenty of fun programs still to be experienced in 2012, as we look forward to 2013! n

• Top Producer • Member of Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide • Listing and Sales Leader • Relocation Specialist Office: 412-833-3600 ext. 219 Cell: 412-491-6984 Howard Hanna - USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

dhorvath@howardhanna.com

Late Fall and Winter Programs November 28–Moonstruck Full Moon Hike December 9–Talk N Walk: Winter Birding December 15–Christmas Bird Count December 28–Moonstruck Full Moon Hike January 26–Moonstruck Full Moon Hike January 9–SOD: Tracking February 23–Girl Scout Winter Fun Day and Frosty Fun Day February 25–Moonstruck Full Moon Hike March 14–Wonderland Gardens: Part 1 March 20–In Balance Series: Rebuild March 24–Talk N Walk: Eco-Hiking March 27–Moonstruck Full Moon Hike

Visit www.TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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USC Recreation

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Winter Upcoming Events

Learn Now at the C&RC in Hi Tech

C&RC Blood Drive.................................November 29 Holiday Hat & Mitten Drive...................December 1-15 C&RC New Year Wellness Fair...............January 5 Fourth annual Chili Golf Classic............January 26 Family Prom............................................February 8 Saturday Social........................................February 9

NEW! Comic Book Creation, Ages 8–11

Presented from the staff of Hi-Tech Learning, a variety of classes are now offered at the C&RC for children ages 6-13. To learn more or to register, visit www.livesmarterplayharder.org or www.hi-techlearning.com.

If you were to create your very own comic book super heroes, what would they look like? What powers would they have? In this class, participants will use their artistic and writing skills to create their own comic book super hero.

Session I begins January 9.

NEW! Video Game Design, Ages 9–13 So… you like to play video games? How would you like to create your own video game for you and all your friends to play?

Participants in this class will learn how to use computers and specially-designed software to create their very own video game.

Session II begins January 12.

Kids Just “Wanna” Have Fun Camp, Ages 5–12 Have some fun while you’re home over winter break! Come to the C&RC to participate in all sorts of cool activities. You’ll have a chance to swim, do arts and crafts, play games, and spend time with your friends. Pack a lunch (peanut and tree-nut free), wear sneakers and comfortable clothing, and bring your swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops. Finish up camp by attending the C&RC’s kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration on the last day.

Date(s): December 26–28 and December 31* Time: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., ages 5-6

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., ages 7-12

*10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for all ages on December 31 only Place: C&RC as posted Fee(s): $75–member

$80–resident, non-member

$85–surrounding community, non-member MLK Day of Service Program Registration Form Complete this form and send with the $15 payment to: Mail to: Deliver to: Recreation Department Recreation Department Township of Upper St. Clair Community & Recreation Center 1820 McLaughlin Run Road 1551 Mayview Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Checks payable to USC Recreation. Questions? Call 412-221-1099.

January 21: MLK Day of Service, Grades 1–6** In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service. The King Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, addresses social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.” Do you have a favorite project on which you’d like us to work? Contact Amy Kerman, Community Programs Department, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603 or email Amy at kerman@twpus.org. We will spend part of the “day on” doing various community service projects that benefit our greater community.

(The time spent working can count toward required community service hours needed at various schools. **Students in Grade 7 and higher may register to be a group leader or an assistant. Adult volunteers are welcome, too!)

Days/Dates: Monday, January 21 Time: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Fee: $15 (includes a T-shirt) First Name of Participant

Program Name

Day/ Time

Age/ Grade

D.O.B.

Fee

MLK Day of Service MLK Day of Service

Registration is required a minimum of 5 days prior to program.

Emergency Contact_________________________________________

NOTE: RELEASE OF CLAIMS - Please read and sign below.

In consideration of the Township of Upper St. Clair granting me, and those listed on this form, permission to engage in recreational activities at the Community & Recreation Center and throughout the Township, the below signed does hereby waive, release, save, and hold harmless and indemnify the Township of Upper St. Clair, its employees, agents, and independent contractors for any and all claims for damage or personal injury to me or loss of property which may be caused by any act or failure to act on the part of the Township of Upper St. Clair, its employees, agents, and independent contractors. To the best of my knowledge, the listed participant(s) is of normal health—having no allergies, physical defects, or illness that would require him/her to abstain from a normal program of physical activity. Photo Release: By registering for any USC Recreation program, class, or event you are agreeing to allow publication of any photos taken of you and or your child(ren) at any program, class, event, or facility of the Recreation Department.

Emergency Contact Number__________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature_____________________Date___________

Family’s Last Name_________________________________________ E-Mail Address ____________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________ City ____________________ State ___________ Zip ______________ Home Phone __________________Mobile Phone_________________

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and Leisure Services

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Meeting the Challenge

Ron Mauro, C&RC Member I stepped onto the shuttle bus at 4:20 a.m. in North Park, which is the finish line of the Rachel Carson Challenge. The shuttle was embarking for Harrison Hills Park near Freeport. As four school bus loads of “challengers” silently rode more than 40 minutes to the start line, I couldn’t help but reflect on how I arrived on a bus that was about to drop me in the middle of the woods 34.7 miles away from my car this Saturday morning. I set a lofty goal to finish in less than eight hours.

To train for the Rachel Carson Challenge, I included a mix of cardio, functional, and strength training. I logged up to 55 miles a week at the peak of training with a mixture of trails, hills, and speed workouts. (If you haven’t yet been on the Boyce Mayview Park trails, you are missing out on a great asset of the community!

Pick up a trail map at the C&RC or Township or Public Works buildings, or see page 47 for the map in a reduced size). The Athlete’s Workout at the C&RC is a functional workout that has helped my speed, strength, and agility. And I hit the weights once or twice a week to maintain an overall balance.

On the run, one rule I broke three times was the “don’t get lost” rule. I got lost, but only for a few minutes. Getting lost actually caused me to pass the same runner three times during the challenge. We had a really nice chuckle the last time, as he pointed at me and shouted, “Whatever you do, don’t follow this guy!”

Unfortunately, the last four miles were not my strongest. My

Smarter Live

tired legs tripped twice over tree roots and sent me tumbling to the ground. I picked myself up the first time and a fellow runner picked me up the second. I was lucky to Ron Mauro escape with only a few scratches and a small bruise and was on my way again.

I approached the finish line with sounds of applause and cheers ringing in my ears. I checked in with the finish line scanner to find out that I completed the course in seven hours and six minutes.

That was good enough for the third best time.

The Rachel Carson Challenge was one of the best-organized events I have ever participated in. It is a challenge (not a race) that allows outdoor adventurers of many skill levels to test their endurance and have a great time on some beautiful Pennsylvania trails.

Hopefully, next time my friends can join me in this adventure! n

What’s New in C&RC Fitness?

New fitness pieces delivered in September include: • Life Fitness Treadmill • Octane Fitness standard elliptical • Octane Fitness seated elliptical • Two Concept 2 rowing machines (Erg) Plus, more than five new fitness group exercise classes!

PlayHarder

COMMUNITY & RECREATION CENTER AT BOYCE MAYVIEW PARK

Become A Member Today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

State-of-the-Art Classes & Programs

Try Something New!

 Kettlebell Cardio  Aqua Boot Camp  Dance  Karate  Yoga  Pilates  Deep Sea Aerobics  Zumba  Tai Chi  Dog Training  Comic Book Creation  Studio Painting  Cycling  River Aerobics  Snorkeling  Get, Up & Go  Fun, Fitness, Spor ts and more!

 Ballroom Dance  Power PiYo  Cycle/Yoga

★ ★ Personal Training Holiday Discount! ★ ★ 25% OFF Select Packages

 pARTners  Bugs, Slime & Goo

Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park 1551 Mayview Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.221.1099

www.livesmarterplayharder.org

Winter 2012

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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USC Recreation

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United Senior Citizens of USC The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair is an organized group of the Township’s senior citizens who meet once a week on Wednesdays for lunch and a program.

Retired residents, age 55 and older, are eligible for membership. The program is sponsored by the USC Department of Recreation and Leisure Services.

Morning activities are informal and include lunch preparation by volunteers from the group. The members hold a

brief business meeting at noon, which is followed by the meal. The afternoon’s activities include musical entertainment, lectures or presentations of interest, book reviews, health and fitness instruction, game days, and arts and crafts. Activities are usually held at the Recreation Center located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Road. For more information, contact Amy Kerman, older adult coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603, or via email at kerman@twpusc.org.

Celebrations of the Season Birthdays: Corrine Gastineau Paul Lienhardt Maxine Brunwasser Youzhen Zhang Elaine MacDonald Liz Labee Anniversary: Louis and Louise Cohen (60th)

Seniors at Leisure

Every Thursday afternoon, something fun is planned! Four rotations include the first Thursday of the month—Brain Fitness; the second Thursday—Art Experience; the third Thursday—Movie Day; the fourth Thursday—Pickleball Practice.

Brain Fitness: Thursdays Dec. 6, Jan. 3, Feb. 7, Mar. 7 It is neurobics time! Brain exercises will help stimulate and grow our brain cells.

Time/Place: 1:30-3 p.m. in the C&RC Age: 55 years of age and older Fee: Free. Reservations requested.

Art Experience: Thursdays, Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, Mar. 14 Professional artist Rikki Walsh offers a hands-on art activity.

Time/Place: 2-3:30 p.m. in the C&RC Age: 55 years of age and older Fee: Free. Reservations requested.

Movie Day: Thursdays, Dec. 20, Jan. 17, Feb. 21, Mar. 21 Once a month this group will view a film that will make you laugh, or cry, or both! Sometimes it is an oldie but goodie; sometimes it is a more recent release.

Time/Place: 12:30 p.m. in the C&RC Age Requirement: Adult Fee: Free. Pizza lunch included; reservations requested.

Pickleball Practice: Thursdays, Nov. 29, Jan. 24, Feb. 28, Mar. 28 It’s the hottest racquet sport around, and it is perfect for those ages 50 and above. Pickleball is a fun game that is played on a badminton court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center. It is a combination of tennis, badminton, ping pong, and racquetball. It’s easy to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players.

Come to learn, practice, and play.

Time/Place: 2-3:30 p.m. in the C&RC Age: 55 years of age and older Fee: Free. Reservations requested.

Saturday Social: A Dance Party The Saturday Social is for all residents of the South Hills and beyond, age 60 and older. There will be a DJ playing dance music from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. There will be dance hosts, performances, and more.

Light refreshments will be served. Attire is dressy casual to semi-formal. Dance partner not required.

Date: Saturday, February 9 Time: 2-4 p.m.

Place: C&RC Community Rooms Fees: $8. Please pre-register.

Resources for Seniors Gold Card

Offered by the USC School District to residents age 62 and older. Card admits holder to School District drama and musical performances, athletic events, and other events free of charge. Applications at School District reception desk at 1820 McLaughlin Run Road.

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Silver Card

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

Winter 2012

ACCESS 65 PLUS is a shared-ride transportation service program for senior citizens age 65 and older. Contact Amy Kerman, Upper St. Clair Township older adult coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603, for information about this program and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Senior Citizen identification card for the Port Authority Transit (PAT) system.

and Leisure Services

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Spotlight on Selma and Bob Furst

Florence Dorn, Corresponding Secretary of USC-USC Selma and Bob Furst have been residents of USC for more than 25 years. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary and had their now-and-then pictures featured in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

They have three children—two sons and a daughter—and two grandchildren.

The Fursts belong to an adult readers’ theatre group. Selma does the casting and also acts. The group, which consists of 40 people and rehearses at Mt. Lebanon library, performs comedies and thrillers at various venues, including a performance at our very own United Senior Citizens of USC’s weekly Wednesday lunch.

Selma and Bob like to travel and have gone all over the world.

Some of their favorite spots are Japan, China, Europe, and Israel. They also have taken Bob and Selma Furst

several cruises on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and recently took the America Queen steamboat on a Mississippi River cruise.

The Fursts joined the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair several years ago. They learned about the organization through the TODAY magazine, and ventured into the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road one day to check it out. Selma says, “My husband and I joined the group because it was an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy interesting and entertaining programs, and we haven’t been disappointed! We look forward to every Wednesday.”

Both Bob and Selma serve on the board of directors of the United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair. n

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Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned And Operated By NRT LLC.

Winter 2012

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T

Winter Storm Emergencies

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

They are for your safety.

Public Works Snow Removal— How It Works

The Public Works Department is on 3. When streets are plowed, snow will be call 24 hours a day to help residents with pushed in front of driveways. Unfortu- snow removal emergencies and related nately, there is no other place for the snow situations. During severe snow situations to go. where plowing is needed, the main state and Township roads have priority, which 4. The Public Works Department is not in some cases require residential roadways permitted to assist residents by clearing to be designated secondary priority. driveways, sidewalks, or paths to mailThe department deploys 16 trucks boxes. Public Works employees work as equipped with salt spreaders and plows many hours as necessary to make streets, to clear approximately 110 miles of inlets, cul-de-sacs, sidewalks, and parking roadway, all Township-owned parking lots safe for all vehicles and pedestrians. lots, buildings, and all School District parking lots.

5. Under emergency situations, there may The department is currently contracted be delays or cancellations of garbage to perform snow and ice removal on collection and recycling pickup. Please all state-owned roadways within the do not call the Township during a snow Township, including State Route 19, emergency to ask about garbage Boyce Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road, collection. Until the snow situation is McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch Road, under control, it is impossible to say and McMillan Road. It does not have when garbage collection will be back on maintenance responsibilities to Allegheny schedule. Check Cable 7 or the County-owned roadways, including Township’s website at www.twpusc.org Painters Run Road, Bethel Church Road, for information on garbage collection. and Drake Road.

Some considerations regarding the 6. The Township cannot recommend snow removal services that you receive as contractors or companies that provide a resident of USC include: private snow removal. Please refer to the Verizon Yellow Pages.

1. The Public Works Department must be alert to air temperatures and road 58

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www.twpusc.org

surface temperatures. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective to about 23° fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°, road surfaces will require additions of liquid calcium chloride. Traffic causes rock salt to act more quickly, so streets with heavier traffic will show the results of sodium chloride application sooner than less traveled roadways.

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

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

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

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

6. Walks will be cleared at the Township building and tennis bubbles as soon as possible. The Recreation Center schedule is checked to ensure clear walkways prior to scheduled activities.

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

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 right of way needed.

T

A Silent Killer Colder weather is upon us and our furnaces and fireplaces have become more active.

The members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department would like to share some safety information regarding carbon monoxide (CO) with our neighbors and residents.

Known as the silent killer, CO is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide. Read the following tips: • CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection, purchase alarms that interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height.

• Choose a CO alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.

• Test CO alarms at least once a month; replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• If the audible trouble signal sounds, check for low batteries. If the battery is low, replace it. If it still sounds, the USC VFD is more quickly contacted by using the local emergency number at 412-833-7500. They can also be reached by dialing 911.

• If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel arrive.

• If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow.

• During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.

• A generator should be used in a well-ventilated location outdoors away from windows, doors, and vent openings.

• Gas or charcoal grills can produce CO; only use outside.

Know the Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Because CO is odorless, colorless, and otherwise undetectable to the human senses, people may not know that they are being exposed. The initial symptoms of low to moderate CO poisoning are similar to the flu (but without the fever) and can include: • Headache • Fatigue • Shortness of breath • Nausea • Dizziness High level CO poisoning results in progressively more severe symptoms, including: • Mental confusion • Vomiting • Loss of muscular coordination • Loss of consciousness Adapted from the NFPA website: www.nfpa.org.

• Ultimately death n

The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department is now on Facebook.

In an effort to provide the residents of Upper St. Clair Township with more timely information about safety, current and upcoming activities, department membership, equipment, and other topics, the members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department have developed a Facebook page. Search for “The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department” and subscribe to learn more about your “all volunteer” department!

Like us on Facebook by searching for The Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department to view recent activities, upcoming events, and other information. Or visit the website at www.uscvfd.org.

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T Directory of Important Numbers Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency

412-833-7500 • 724-941-7500 Township Offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Monday - Friday Administration/Township Manager 412-831-9000, ext. 216 Community Development 412-831-9000, ext. 501 Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 226 Recreation – 412-221-1099 Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 271 Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500 Police Administration – 412-833-1113 Animal Control 412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500 Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710 Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station) 412-835-0660 Library – 412-835-5540

Tri-Community Fighting the Flu

For the second year in a row, TriCommunity South EMS (TCS) has been recognized for its participation in community health immunization efforts.

On June 26, 2012, TCS received a certificate of recognition from Pennsylvania Senator Jim Brewer of the 45th Senate District for its participation in the 2011-12 Mon River Fleet Influenza Initiative. From October 1, 2011, through January 31, 2012, the 14 EMS agencies that participated in the Mon River Fleet program administered 5500 vaccines influenza vaccines throughout the Mon Valley region.

The Mon River Fleet is a cooperative venture of four State Health Improvement Plans (SHIPS) in McKeesport, Braddock,

Frequently Called Numbers

Cable 7 (Public Access Television) 412-831-1030 Robert C. Wyda (District Justice) 412-835-1661 League Of Women Voters 412-261-4284 Post Office – 1-800-275-8777 School District – 412-833-1600 South West Communities Chamber of Commerce – 412-221-4100 Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556 The Outdoor Classroom 412-838-0064 Three-Hole Golf Course 412-831-7556 Utilities & Services

Comcast Cable Communications Sales, Service, and Billing 1-800-266-2278 Allegheny Power – 1-800-255-3443 Columbia Gas Company 724-416-6300 Dominion People’s Gas Company 1-800-764-0111 Equitable Gas Company 412-395-3050 PA American Water Company 1-800-565-7292 Verizon – 1-800-660-2215

Duquesne, and Hazelwood, and the Clairton Community Partnership. These areas are considered by the state to be medically underserved communities. The program is supported by UPMC McKeesport Hospital and the McKeesport Hospital Foundation. Cynthia Dorundo, president of UPMC McKeesport Hospital also presented certificates of appreciation to the participating agencies.

The 2012-13 Mon River Fleet Influenza Initiative, now underway, runs from October 1, 2012, to January 31, 2013. TCS is once again participating in this important endeavor.

TCS is proud to participate in serving the medically underserved, and in doing so, to protect the health and safety of the residents of South Park, Bethel Park, and Upper St. Clair. Infectious disease does not recognize municipal boundary lines, and every vaccination helps to stop the spread of influenza throughout the region. n

Sports Safety

With fall sports seasons ending and winter sports beginning soon, TriCommunity South (TCS) EMS reminds all athletic coaches and trainers to get or update certification in CPR and AED use. The American Heart Association introduced its Guidelines 2010 for CPR and AED in the last months of 2010, and courses in accordance with Guidelines 2010 have been offered since January of 2011. Changes in Guidelines 2010 include using continuous chest compressions without rescue breathing for adult victims of cardiac arrest, but retain rescue breathing for infants, children, and all drowning victims.

TCS recommends that an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) be immediately available at all athletic event sites. Though sudden cardiac arrest is not common among young athletes, it does

occur. An impact directly to the chest wall, as from a thrown or batted baseball, can easily cause a life-threatening disruption of the heart rhythm. Some athletes may have an undiscovered heart problem that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. When cardiac arrest happens, the presence of an AED is often the difference between death and survival. Though all local municipal police cars carry the devices, in cardiac arrest the difference between successful resuscitation and death is measured in seconds. The decision to have an AED on hand can be, quite literally, a matter of life or death.

TCS offers AED training as part of its CPR training course Heartsaver AED. TCS will also offer guidance and training support to any agency or group that wishes to acquire an AED. n

To find out more about CPR or Automatic External Defibrillation, call Tri-Community South EMS at 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or visit the TCS website at www.tcsems.org.

Tri-Community South • Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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T

South EMS Tri-Community South 2013 Subscription Drive It is time once again for the Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) annual subscription drive. TCS would like to thank all those who have supported the system with donations and through the subscription drive in 2012. TCS has been providing emergency medical care since January 1, 1978. The system is entering its 36th year and it could not have survived without the support of the people it serves.

TCS takes pride in providing the highest possible level of emergency medical care to the community. It uses state-ofthe-art equipment and technology in the hands of highly trained emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. The system proves its dedication to quality medical care by maintaining accreditation by the Commission on the Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS). TCS is one of only 125 EMS agencies in North America to receive this accreditation.

TCS depends on the support of the residents of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park through subscriptions and donations to continue to provide this valuable service. Your subscription helps to cover the cost of operating the ambulances 24-hours a day. Though EMS providers remain among the lowest-paid health care or public safety workers, operating costs, like insurance, continue to rise. Your subscription also helps pay for ambulances and medical equipment, including cardiac monitors. This equipment has a long, but not unlimited, service life.

In 2012, TCS replaced three ambulances and seven cardiac monitor/defibrillator units. In 2013, TCS will need to replace three more ambulances.

Since October 2000, TCS has received no money from municipal or township taxes. The system’s operating expenses of more than one million dollars each year are funded entirely through fees for service, third party insurance reimbursements, donations, and the annual subscription drive.

The subscription rate remains at $60 a year. By comparison, many people will spend $30 per month or more ($360 per year) on membership fees to a gym or

exercise club. Some of these people will not even go to the gym in a given year, but they still pay the $30 a month membership fee “just in case” they want to go. At onesixth the cost of a gym membership, an ambulance subscription is a much better “just in case” value.

Your subscription to TCS means that should you need medically-necessary ambulance transportation, TCS will accept reimbursement from your health insurance carrier as payment in full for the services rendered, and you will not receive any direct bill for these services. Non-subscribers must pay the full amount of the invoice, regardless of what the insurer pays. Most insurance companies only cover 80% of the ambulance bill, leaving the remaining 20% for you to pay.

With your $60 per year subscription to TCS you will not receive any direct bills for medically-necessary emergency ambulance service, regardless of your insurance coverage. Your subscription covers any co-payments or deductibles. Keep in mind that non-subscribers are responsible for full payment of all applicable charges, which often can exceed $1200 per trip.

Your subscription also covers pre-scheduled non-emergency ambulance service when medically necessary and when the service meets the requirements or guidelines of your health care insurance provider and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Services that are not “reasonable and necessary” are not covered by your subscription. The subscription program is not an insurance plan or insurance policy.

TCS agrees to keep all medical/insurance information strictly confidential and will abide by all confidentiality laws protecting the patient’s right to privacy.

You can view the privacy statement at www.tcsems.org/about/privacy.html.

Your subscription takes effect as soon as it is received and the payment is accepted by TCS. It remains in effect through December 31, 2013, regardless of the day it is received. Subscription terms and conditions are available upon request or online at www.tcsems.org/docs/terms.pdf. n

Masonry Restoration, Chimney Rebuilds and Repointing

412-831-7074 412-561-6463 Whole House Pointing & Partial Pointing Garage Steel I-Beam & Lentil Replacement Brick Replacements High Pressure Cleaning Stone & Brick Specialize in Mortar Matching

$50 off any job over $1000 References Available • Fully Insured PHIC Registration #PA029487

www.reberrestoration.com

412-831-3710 • www.tcsems.org Winter 2012

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Making College More Affordable

Steve Hannan, Director of Public Relations, Ashland University Choosing a college is arguably one of the biggest decisions a student and family will make. Keeping this in mind, it is important to consider the value of a private educational experience and the long-term benefits that this investment will generate in the future.

Earlier this year, Secretary of Education Dr. Martha Kanter visited the campus of Ashland University to recognize the university for its recent efforts to make college more affordable.

Dr. Kanter gave the keynote address at a town hall meeting on “College Affordability and Quality.” She also held a news conference in which she noted that the U.S. Department of Education selected Ashland University as the location of the meeting because of the university’s recently developed programs in response to student and family financial concerns.

During the news conference, Dr. Kanter outlined Ashland University programs and actions, which included: • Reducing the number of credit hours needed to earn a bachelor’s degree from 128 to 120.

• Instituting a three-year degree program that will allow students to earn a quality private education in less time and for less money.

• Establishing a four-year graduation guarantee program that will help keep college costs predictable for families.

• Approving a more than 17% increase in merit-based 62

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scholarship awards for incoming freshmen in 2012-13.

• Launching an accelerated accounting degree program that allows students to complete bachelor’s and master’s programs in less time.

• Approving a total of 1.1% increase in tuition, room, and board fees for the 2012-13 academic year, the lowest increase on record in school history.

During her keynote address, Dr. Kanter said Ashland University has set an example for colleges nationwide to follow.

“You can look at any number of things that have happened here at this university and say, ‘This is an island of excellence.’ I want a country of excellence. That’s what we need,” she said.

Ashland University believes that one of the most significant factors in determining the value of a private education is academic excellence. Ashland University offers many academic programs with national reputations and a world-class faculty focused on teaching students. This means students have access to faculty in the classroom and in partnering with faculty in research projects.

Ashland University, ranked in the top 200 colleges and universities in U.S. News and World Report’s National Universities category for 2012, is a mid-sized, private university conveniently located a short distance from the metropolitan areas of Akron, Cleveland, and Columbus, Ohio. n See ad on this page.

jeff e rso n re g io n a l.co m

It’s not every day you need open heart surgery.

But it’s every day we perform it.

When the health of your heart is at stake, no one is better prepared to help than Jefferson Regional. In 2012, we were nationally ranked by HealthGrades® as one of the top 100 Best Hospitals for our superb outcomes in cardiac surgery. Our Heart Institute offers state-of-the-art, comprehensive care. And our experienced team provides everything from diagnostics and non-invasive procedures to surgery and rehabilitation.

It’s a top-notch program. Better yet, it’s just a heartbeat away. Find out more. Visit jeffersonregional.com.

Choose well.

The Heart Institute A division of Jefferson Regional Medical Center | 565 Coal Valley Road | Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 | 412.469.7800

12JEF056_Cardiac_7.5x10_Reg_FINAL.indd 1

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Life Planning Hef-Till_USCToday_Fall2012-FINAL_Layout 1 7/12/12 9:39 AM Page 1

retired from work, not from life.

creators of masterplan

in the south hills, 888-833-5777 / hefren.com

member SIPC

College Savings Plans

Patricia John, Financial Advisor, Hefren-Tillotson With the recent budget cuts for education, it is now more important than ever to consider saving for your child or grandchild’s college education. Education costs have risen dramatically and are expected to continue rising. There are several ways to save for a child’s education. Some of the choices are 529 College Savings, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, and UTMA/UGMA accounts.

Let’s look at 529 plans. These plans are an excellent way to save for college, grow your savings tax-free, and use the funds for tax-free distributions for higher education expenses. This includes tuition, room and board, books, and fees for undergraduate, graduate, technical trade schools, and accredited professional schools. Of the savings options, 529 plans are possibly the most flexible. An account can be opened for anyone­—your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, or even yourself. This person is called the beneficiary and the contributor is the owner. The owner maintains control of the account even after the child reaches the age of majority. The beneficiaries can be changed to another family member if all of the funds are not used for college or if the child decides not to attend an accredited school.

Even though plans are administered by different states, you can choose any state plan regardless of where you live. Currently, you can deduct contributions of up to $13,000 per person from your Pennsylvania state tax. A recent proposal to end state tax 64

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deductions for out-of-state plans was overturned for 2012.

The contributions limit for a 529 plan can be as high as $350,000, or higher, per account. Once an account reaches the limited amount, no more contributions can be made, but the account can continue to grow.

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts are another education planning option. One of the primary differences between Coverdell and 529 plans is the Coverdell Education Savings Account can be used to fund education from Kindergarten through graduate school, whereas 529 plans can only be used for postsecondary education. If you are planning to send your child to a private school for grades K through 12, a Coverdell account might be an option for you. However, while there are no limits for 529 plans, there are contribution and income limits for Coverdell accounts. Each year the maximum contribution per beneficiary is $2000. If you are a married couple, the ability to contribute is phased out for incomes between $190,000 and $220,000. For an individual, that limit is lower—$95,000 to $110,000. Once a beneficiary reaches the age of majority, he or she can assume control of the account.

Non-qualified withdrawals for either of these two types of accounts are subject to a ten percent federal tax penalty and ordinary income tax on the earnings portion.

UGMA/UTMA accounts differ in that there are no tax free

Life Planning SOUTH HILLS ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES, P.C.

Derrick J. Fluhme, M.D. Christopher M. Manning, M.D. Eric D. Nabors, M.D. Brett Perricelli, M.D. Damon Combs, DPM

South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates’ team of highly trained medical professionals provides a wide variety of orthopaedic care to patients of all ages. All of our physicians are fellowship trained and provide state of the art care in total joint replacement, arthroscopic surgery, surgery of the shoulder, knee, hand, foot and ankle, spine surgery and sports medicine.

(l-r) Dr. Damon Combs, Dr. Brett Perricelli, Dr. Eric Nabors, Dr. Derrick Fluhme, Dr. Christopher Manning

To schedule an appointment call

412-283-0260

2000 Oxford Drive, Suite 211 • Bethel Park, PA. 15102 • www.southhillsortho.com Free wireless internet access and valet parking available

Orthodontics for Adults Dr. Eric Reitz and Dr. Beth Troy distributions for higher education. Essentially, these accounts are a savings vehicle for the child that can potentially be taxed at the parent’s rate depending on the amount of earnings. These funds can be used for any purpose as long as it benefits the child, and you do not have to wait for any particular age to use these funds for the child. Contributions to the account are considered to be completed gifts to the child; therefore, the minor/beneficiary can not be changed, as it can be for 529 and Coverdell accounts, and the child assumes control of the account at the age of majority (age 21 in Pennsylvania).

As you can see, there are several different types of accounts available. Ask your financial advisor to help you determine which account best suits your needs. n Reach Patricia John at the Hefren-Tillotson South Hills office at 412-833-5777 or by email at patricia.john@hefren.com. See ad on page 64.

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. Modern advances in technology and treatment methods have more men and women than ever interested in orthodontics.

Did you know that approximately 20% of all orthodontic patients are adults?

Adult orthodontic treatment is similar to treatment in adolescents, but there are some differences. Adults may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth, and may require periodontal and dental treatment in conjunction with orthodontics. Also, more frequent cleanings at the dentist may be required to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

For adults, the appearance of braces may be a concern. Orthodontists are happy to offer esthetic alternatives to conventional metal braces, such as ceramic braces or Invisalign®. Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are, therefore, less visible on your teeth than metal braces. Ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterpart. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on the lower teeth.

Invisalign® uses a series of invisible, removable, and custom-shaped aligners to straighten your teeth. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks as they progressively move teeth toward their desired position. Because aligners are removable, you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, and brushing and flossing are easier than when wearing braces.

If you have always wanted straighter teeth, there has never been a better time to begin your journey toward healthier teeth, a better bite, and a more stunning smile!

Consider braces or Invisalign® to get the beautiful straight teeth you’ve always wanted. n See ad for Drs. Reitz and Troy on page 43.

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Life Planning Life in the South Hills is good.

Retirement living at Providence Point? Even better!

Benefits of life at Providence Point •No Property Taxes

Living in a retirement community makes property taxes a thing of the past.

•Good Bye to Home Maintenance

Forget the expense and time spent on things like utilities, snow removal, housekeeping and major home upkeep.

Enjoy scheduled cleaning and regular maintenance services.

•Tax Advantages

Under our LifeCare agreement, you can take a one-time medical expense deduction for federal income tax purposes. That helps offset capital gains taxes associated with the sale of property such as your home.

•Financial Security

With our LifeCare contract, you can have peace of mind knowing that, if or when needed, your future longterm care needs will be met.

•Asset Protection

Our resident service agreement offers a 90% refund of the entrance fee paid.

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Few retirement communities boast an indoor pool, whirlpool, spa, theater and bocce court. We do. They’re just a few of the scrumptious amenities at Providence Point!

In fact, those who live here say Providence Point is more like a resort than a retirement community.

It’s not too late for you to join us! A few of our most beautiful apartment residences are still available. You’ll find the retirement lifestyle you’ve dreamed of, and active, friendly residents who will quickly make it feel like home.

Call today to schedule a personal tour or join us for an upcoming event.

412.489.3550

You’ve reached the best point in your life!

500 PROVIDENCE POINT BLVD , PITTSBURGH, PA 15243

WWW.PROVIDENCEPOINT.ORG

A Baptist Homes Society community

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A Proactive Choice in Senior Living Marilyn Walsh

Today, there are more choices for senior living and services than ever before.

From home health agencies to long-term nursing care, there are services available for almost any need that arises. However, until the development of Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), most senior services and living options were reactive—selected in response to an event. Perhaps a sudden illness, a heart attack, cancer, or stroke drastically altered the life of a loved one. Or, it could have been something that developed over time, like the onset of dementia or the sense that a loved one was “slowing down” and could not quite handle the workload of owning a home or carrying out acts of daily living (bathing, medications, eating, etc.).

A CCRC on the other hand, is a pro-active choice for seniors who are currently living independently but want the security of knowing that future needs will be met as they grow older. Also referred to as Lifecare Communities, CCRCs offer a long-term care contract for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and other healthcare services all at one location.

Seniors tend to move to CCRCs at a younger age—usually in their mid-70s—and they’ve made the decision on their own, as healthy, active older adults. These savvy seniors choose

Don’t Face Breast Cancer Alone

Barbara Lloyd The American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program has helped people—both female and male—cope with their breast cancer experiences. When people initially learn that they have breast cancer, they may feel overwhelmed, vulnerable, and alone.

While under this stress, people must also learn about and try to understand complex medical treatments and then choose the best one for them. Reach to Recovery program offers practical and emotional support to breast cancer patients and their families. Talking to a trained volunteer can provide comfort and an opportunity for emotional grounding for informed decision-making.

Volunteers are breast cancer survivors who give patients and family members an opportunity to express feelings, talk about fears and concerns, and ask questions of someone with personal knowledge of this disease. Having survived breast cancer themselves, Reach to Recovery volunteers offer understanding,

Life Planning Continuing Care Retirement Communities for several reasons: CCRC contracts ensure future care, secure assets, and relieve their children from the burden of future care. The amenities and services provide freedom, choice, and time to enjoy retirement. The social setting allows one to be as active—or inactive—as you choose.

CCRC residents live independently in apartments or homes, and have access to all sorts of activities. Providence Point, which opened three years ago in Scott Township, offers four dining venues, an indoor pool and spa, virtual golf, a library, and art studio. CCRC’s also offer conveniences like transportation to events, on-site banking, beauty salon, barber shop, and doctor’s office. Recent studies have shown that the active social lifestyle and easy access to services and healthcare at CCRCs can add an average of six years to a person’s lifespan.

Of course, no one can predict what the future holds. Sometimes losses associated with aging can “throw a wrench” into even the best laid plans. The important thing to remember is: There is no one right answer, nor one perfect plan. Individuality remains important as we age. And, we want to enjoy life and live it to the fullest, so proper planning is essential.

The later years can be a time for enjoyment, relaxation, and fulfillment. Or, they can be filled with stress and uncertainty.

The difference often lies in your expectations and in how well you have planned your personal affairs and finances.

To help ensure that your senior years are truly “golden years,” develop an understanding of the many services CCRCs often provide seniors with increased and options available, and access to activities, like waterobics classes. then work to achieve your See ad for Providence Point on page 66. goals. n

support, and hope. A breast cancer patient is matched with a list of volunteers who have as many similarities as possible. There are many criteria used to match patients with their volunteers. Some of the criteria include age, possible treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, and surgical procedures.

I have been a Reach to Recover volunteer for more than 12 years and have spoken with many patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer. For the first five years, I spoke with patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time. Since my re-occurrence, I also speak with many patients diagnosed with a re-occurrence of breast cancer. In April, I accepted the responsibility of co-coordinator for Western Pennsylvania. In this position, I match patients with our volunteers, while also continuing to speak to breast cancer patients that match my past experience.

The questions and concerns vary with each patient. As a volunteer, I give support on wig purchases, makeup clinics, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, lumpectomy or mastectomy, breast reconstruction, lymphedema, facing breast cancer recurrence or metastasis, and provide literature for spouses, children, friends, and other loved ones.

Reach to Recovery works through carefully selected and trained volunteers who have fully adjusted to their breast cancer treatment.

All volunteers complete an initial training and participate in ongoing continuing education sessions. n To locate a Reach to Recovery program or if you are a breast cancer survivor who has overcome cancer and would like to make a difference in the lives of others affected by breast cancer, call 1-800-CANCER or phone Barbara Lloyd at 412-831-8918.

Breast Biopsies—Part II Dr. Natalie Furgiuele-Iracki

Today, most diagnoses of breast cancer are made prior to surgery by the use of the less invasive needle biopsy.

However, if the needle biopsy does not seem in accordance with the X-ray, the radiologist will advise that an excision, or removal of a lump, be done. Surgical removal of a lump, or lumpectomy, is when the breast tissue is taken out using an incision.

It may be necessary for the surgeon to remove the lump or area of abnormality with guidance from the breast imaging by using a “needle wire localization.” When an area in the breast has undergone a needle biopsy, a clip is inserted in the breast so that the radiologist knows where to locate the exact area of concern. In those instances, when the pathology of the removed lump reveals something that needs further excision, a small guide wire is inserted down to where the clip was placed. The surgeon can then follow the wire as a guide to surgically excise the tissue in the operating room. Most of the time, these surgeries are done comfortably and quickly, with very few complications as an outpatient under local anesthesia.

Once the affected area is excised using the help of a needle wire localization, the tissue with the wire is X-rayed either by mammography or sonography to verify that the area in question has been successfully removed. n For “Breast Biopsies—Part I,” read TODAY, fall 2012, page 21. See ad for Dr. Natalie Furgiuele-Iracki on this page.

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World-Class Cancer Care Close To Home Breast cancer treatment, as well as other cancer care, has been enhanced at St. Clair Hospital with the recent addition of a state-of-the-art linear accelerator to the hospital’s growing arsenal of advanced cancer-fighting weapons. The new accelerator is the second at the UPMC/St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center and expands St. Clair’s capabilities and enhances the patient experience.

An accelerator delivers high-energy X-rays to patients’ tumors with precision. The new accelerator was first used to treat cancer patients at the center in August.

The center, located on St. Clair Hospital’s main campus in Mt. Lebanon, is a joint venture between St. Clair and UPMC CancerCenter, a partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. A 1885-square-foot addition to the existing 8000-square-foot center was constructed to house the new multi-million dollar accelerator.

Radiation oncologists at the center work with referring physicians and other cancer care specialists to deliver the latest therapy, close to home. The high-tech radiation delivery systems and imaging technologies available at the center are designed to help treat cancerous tumors while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. Capabilities include: • Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)—IMRT gives radiation oncologists the ability to more precisely “custom sculpt” the shape of a tumor, delivering the right amount of radiation with more accuracy and helping to preserve healthy tissue around the tumor.

• Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)—IGRT uses twoand three-dimensional imaging during radiation treatment to direct radiation therapy to the coordinates of the radiation treatment plan. Like IMRT, IGRT is designed to deliver radiation with precision and protect healthy surrounding tissue.

• On-Board Imager® (OBI)—This imaging technology is used in conjunction with radiation delivery systems prior to

treatment to ensure that the patient’s tumor is in the same place as originally planned.

• Respiratory gating—During a radiation treatment, a patient’s tumor may change position due to the patient’s breathing cycle or other involuntary movements. In a respiratory gating treatment, a tracking device watches the tumor’s position and briefly shuts off the radiation treatment device when the tumor moves beyond a certain point.

• Rapid Arc®—This advanced equipment rotates 360 degrees around a patient’s body, providing radiation precisely sculpted to the tumor. RapidArc delivers treatment in two to three minutes, compared to other conventional treatments, which may take up to 30 minutes.

• Brachytherapy—Brachytherapy is the general name for a type of radiation treatment in which radioactive seeds, smaller than a grain of rice, are implanted inside or near the area requiring treatment. Radiation oncologists at the center use prostate seed implants—a low-dose rate brachytherapy—to shrink a tumor.

The center also offers the latest diagnostic services to improve tumor detection and localization, patient management, therapy planning, and assessment of response to therapy. Services include onsite PET/CT (positron emission tomography/ computed tomography) imaging services to assist radiologists in determining any abnormal cell activity and in pinpointing the location of cancerous tissue, so that a biopsy can be performed. n State-of-the-art linear accelerator Contact the UPMC/St. Clair Hospital Cancer Center at 412-502-3920, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

New Breast Care Center—Designed For Comfort and Privacy

St. Clair Hospital launched a new era in women’s health care with the October opening of its new, state-of-the-art Breast Care Center in Bethel Park. Designed with a spa-like ambience, the center offers the most advanced diagnostic imaging technology in an environment of comfort, convenience, and beauty.

Located on the third floor of the St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center–Village Square, the center is a 6000-square-foot suite that is configured to maximize patient privacy and facilitate efficiency.

Patients appreciate the presence of two waiting rooms: a public reception area, and a second private waiting room near the testing area. There are private dressing rooms, including two that are attached directly to a mammography room. Even acoustics are addressed, with soundproofing on doors to assure confidentiality of conversations with doctors or technicians. Architect Tami Greene, AIA, of IKM, Inc. in Pittsburgh, says that privacy was a major consideration in planning the space. “Women are able to circulate through the suite without ever entering a public area.

This is important when you are wearing an examination gown in a clinical setting.”

That level of attention to the personal experience of the patient is evident throughout the center. Because having a mammogram is an emotional and often stressful event for women, the center offers a space with a higher level of comfort and aesthetics than 68

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what is typically found in medical settings. To achieve that, Greene and her team used soft colors in light blue, green and silver, with a luminous touch, giving the center an elegant, feminine appeal.

“There is a sparkle to the finishes in the waiting areas,” she explains. “The lighting contains crystals and the wall coverings have a shimmer to them. There also is a water feature, which provides a therapeutic effect.”

The physicians and other caregivers at the center describe it as a place where women are treated with great care and compassion.

“The goal in the design of the new center is comfort and privacy,” says Sherri H. Chafin, M.D., a St. Clair diagnostic radiologist who specializes in breast imaging and was instrumental in the center’s design. “In working with the architect, I believe we have created an environment which emulates the warmth and caring of our staff.”

The center features three mammography rooms, two ultrasound rooms, three examination rooms, two mammography reading rooms, three offices, and four consulting rooms. All of the mammography rooms and restrooms are ADA compliant and the doorways and halls are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. There is free parking as well as free valet parking for center clients. n To contact the St. Clair Hospital Breast Care Center, call 412-942-3177. See ad on page3.

Healthy Family

Mary Parks Lamb, MD, Medical Director, Lakeside Primary Care You are likely aware by now that having and maintaining your health is one of, if not the most important factors in getting the most out of life. How can you plan to promote your health and wellbeing across the lifespan? Your family doctor’s office is one of the best places to start. Look for an office that provides health promotion at all stages of life.

Planning to get pregnant this year? Plan to visit your PCP and discuss preconception issues that can improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. This visit would be a good opportunity to obtain appropriate labs and vaccinations prior to conception.

Once that newborn has arrived, visit your PCP at the recommended intervals to keep your baby healthy. Obtain appropriate immunizations and listen to safety advice at each appointment.

Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to keep your baby healthy and free from disease. Primary care physicians are all about prevention —keeping you and your family healthy and free from suffering preventable illness. Flu shots are now recommended for everyone over the age of six months (exceptions do exist). Pertussis booster to protect against whooping cough has been added to tetanus vaccines. Visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules for more information on immunization recommendations.

Do you have a child or children playing sports this year? If they are over ten years of age, obtain an ImPACT baseline test. If your child suffers a concussion during the season, a baseline test helps a great deal to improve management and return-to-play decision making. Only some doctor’s offices offer this service. Make sure yours is one that offers ImPACT testing as well as concussion evaluation and management. Your doctor can also discuss injury management with you. If your child does get injured, take him to your doctor for treatment and rehabilitation recommendations.

Planning to travel this year? Your doctor can discuss ways to

keep you healthy, even if you are traveling within the United States.

Vaccinations are an important way to avoid unnecessary illness. Having a travel pack of important medications for situations that may arise during travel is a great way to be prepared. Many acute illnesses or injuries could easily ruin your trip.

Trying to lose weight? One of the best ways to keep healthy throughout adulthood is to develop a regimen of regular physical exercise. Watching your diet to avoid weight gain reduces your risk of health conditions such as heart disease and arthritis. Many insurance companies now cover visits to your primary care physician specifically for weight loss.

Have a strong family history of cancer? Make sure you discuss these risks with your doctor and develop an appropriate cancer screening regimen based on those risks. Even patients without a family history of cancer should be screened in adulthood for early detection of certain cancers, including breast, colon, and cervical cancer. Your doctor can educate you about what is recommended and why.

Are you facing end-of-life related health issues? Look to your primary care physician to guide you during this period of life. Make sure you have a living will and express to your doctor how you feel about these issues.

Having a plan of care communicated before something happens is optimal for appropriate medical care and decision making.

Life’s journey is marked with many ups and downs, some of which we do not expect. Make your family’s journey easier by following a health and wellness plan outlined by your PCP. Look for a primary care office like Lakeside Primary Care that prides itself on providing comprehensive care across the lifespan. Find a physician you can talk to openly about issues facing you and your family. The relationship you develop over time will be invaluable to your family’s health and well-being. n See ad for Lakeside Primary Care on this page.

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Around the Township is a dedicated feature section of TODAY that captures our residents enjoying activities and events in and around Upper St. Clair.

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Dear Business Neighbor, The South West Communities Chamber of Commerce is a Regional Chamber serving Upper St. Clair, the greater Bridgeville area, and surrounding South Hills communities. Since 1928, the Chamber has worked with businesses to enhance the economic resources of our region and to ensure that changes in the area are good for business. As a premier advocacy organization for business, we help make our members aware of the products and services offered by other members so that they may support one another other. We work diligently to establish and maintain relationships with local, state, and federal government, monitoring business-related legislation and its impact on the business community.

The benefits of membership are far reaching. Chamber members include businesses, social services, and municipal agencies making an important contribution to the business community, while exhibiting their commitment as a good “business neighbor.”

The Chamber offers a wide variety of programs, including educational seminars, numerous marketing opportunities, luncheon and breakfast programs, networking events, employee benefit plans, and more. Chamber programs and events are open to non-members.

In 2010, the Upper St. Clair Chamber of Commerce and the South West Communities Chamber of Commerce united. Operating under the South West Communities Chamber banner, this unification created enhanced member opportunities by providing access to increased resources, services, and exposure. Membership in the South West Communities Chamber of Commerce gives you a competitive “edge” in the regional business community and is a great way to promote your business. We invite you to join the Chamber, and hope you will contact us at 412-221-4100 or info@swccoc.org for additional information.

Sincerely, Emerald VanBuskirk Executive Director

Mark Your Calendar November 2012 Annual Meeting & Business Mixer December 2012 Annual Holiday Luncheon at The Club at Nevillewood January 2013 2013 Economic Forecast Luncheon March 2013 Community Outlook–Lunch with Your Municipal Managers April 2013 Annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon at The Club at Nevillewood

Visit the Chamber’s website at www.swccoc.org for the “Calendar of Events” or call 412-221-4100 for details, additional program listings, and sponsorship opportunities. Nonmembers are always welcome!

South West Communities Chamber of Commerce 2012 Board of Directors Helen Wylie, President Development Dimensions International, Inc. Richard A. Kasmer, Vice President Kasmer Engineering & Surveying George Macino, Treasurer G & S Signs Kelly Hanna, Corporate Secretary Keygroup Lisa Bak Homewood Suites By Hilton Wendy Kingsland Visionary Federal Credit Union Richard Okraszewski Carpenter Training Center Marcy Reid SECON Corporation Matt Serakowski Township of Upper St. Clair Ed Sickmund Myway Mobile Storage Joe Verduci Brentwood Bank Cynthia Volpe Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Staff Emerald Vanbuskirk, Executive Director Barbara M. Zinger, Administrative Assistant

South West Communities Chamber of Commerce

The PEOPLE, PROGRAMS and RESOURCES YOU NEED. . .JOIN TODAY!

www.swccoc.org

Bob Ellison REALTOR®

• Specializing in Upper St. Clair and the South Hills • Knowledgeable and Professional • Serving Buyers and Sellers • Multi Million Dollar Producer Office: 412-833-3600 ext. 246 Cell: 412-552-8290 bobellison@howardhanna.com Howard Hanna - USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

www.howardhanna.com

C•W•C C.W. CARLSON CONTRACTORS, INC.

Building Our Reputation on Quality Work and Satisfied Customers DESIGN • BUILD • REMODEL ADDITIONS • KITCHENS • BATHS

412.854.8180 3571 Valley Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15234 www.cwcarlson.com

(Approved for print in UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY)

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Could It Be True?—a Holiday Tale Mary Lynne Spazok

Last December, as I traveled Fort Couch Road, I thought to myself “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!”

Living in such an exquisite community is pure joy! With the unseasonably warm weather last year, holiday lawn ornaments were popping up everywhere. Santa appeared in vintage attire, contemporary regalia, and just plain, painted plastic. One Santa showcased “jumping for joy” flamingos.

A friend’s fourth grader declared that he no longer believed in Santa Claus. It seems his “know it all” Boyce buddies spilled the beans. Each of us remembers that moment—horrified, sad, and bewildered—could it be true?

Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Papa Noël, and Kris Kringle, is legendary. In many western cultures, Santa delivers gifts to homes of well-behaved children on Christmas Eve, December 24. Many relish a visit from the plump, jolly, white-bearded man who wears a fine red coat. Dashing in from the North Pole, he is accompanied by eight reindeer plus Rudolph, the most famous reindeer of all! Dazzling childhood daydreams of a kind Santa are cherished through song, television, films, children’s books, and the Internet.

So, what about the Santa bubble burst? How do you comfort a disheartened child? This heartfelt letter composed by a trusting eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon may do the trick. Mailed to the editor of New York’s Sun in 1897, it read:

Dear Editor, I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The New York Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O’Hanlon 115 West Ninety-Fifth Street Reply, Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except what they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. ...

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. ...

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. ... Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. ...

Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood. (limited print in TODAY. For full reply version, visit www.newseum.org/yesvirginia.)

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Francis P. Church’s editorial, “Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus” was an immediate sensation. One of the most famous editorials ever, it was reprinted annually until the Sun paper folded in 1949. Even today, for children and adults, it withstands the test of time.

At various junctures in life, whether at age six or 60, there is joy but, also, heartbreaking defeat. In 2012, how does one encourage a disbelieving fourth grader that it really is better to give than to receive? Setting a moral example, humble generosity, and a joyful attitude bring to light a true spirit.

Help to encourage our youth to embrace challenge, and then inspire “Christmas is not a time nor a them with energy, season, but a state of mind. To hope, and pride.

Acts of kindness, cherish peace and goodwill, to be including volun- plenteous in mercy, is to have the teerism, is a simple real spirit of Christmas.” means to “pay it —Calvin Coolidge, 30th President forward.” Whether of the United States. it is Medallion Ball honorees, SHIM volunteers, or a child’s donation to the Salvation Army’s red kettle, all validate benevolence.

At this hectic time of year, no matter when or how you rejoice, take time to delight in giving and celebratory symbols of all faiths and nationalities.

Best wishes for perfect health with infinite peace of mind and heart! n

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Frankie Jo Kunselman —Realtor®—

 Million-Dollar Producer  Dedicated Professional  Skilled Negotiator  Upper St. Clair Resident

412.833.3600 ext.222 Cell: 412.551.1161 Office:

Email: frankiejokunselman@howardhanna.com

Howard Hanna - USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Community Foundation’s Giving Tea to Benefit Gala The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair and the Upper St. Clair School District would like to thank everyone who supported the 2012 “Celebrate Our Schools” Gala as event sponsors, silent auction donors, or attendees. The event was a great success and helped to raise funds for important technology initiatives in the School District. Stay tuned to the spring issue of TODAY for a detailed report on the gala and photos from the event.

Pictured are some of the USC residents who attended the Community Foundation-sponsored Giving Tea this past September at the home of Terrie Piatt to help raise funds for the gala. n

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Let the Celebrations Begin!

Celebrations honor important events and usually require some planning. Why don’t you plan to be in the spring 2013 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY and let us help to showcase your celebration in our community magazine?

Send a short write up of your recent celebration—a birth, a wedding, or an anniversary—along­with a high-quality digital photo, naming the person(s) in the photo, left to right. Email text with attached photo to USCTODAY@uscsd.k12.pa.us, placing TODAY in the subject line of the email.

Share your news with others in TODAY, the official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair. Please adhere to our firm deadline of January 7, 2013. We hope to hear from you!

Baptist Homes Seeks Volunteers 1746 North Highland Street Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 www.yogaflowpittsburgh.com

Here’s a great opportunity to give back, get involved, and have fun! Baptist Homes is seeking volunteers in a number of its operational areas. Be an escort for the residents, be a gift shop attendant, assist with activities, serve as a coffee host or hostess, or visit residents one-on-one.

All volunteers receive a free lunch and have free access to Baptist Homes’ state-ofthe-art wellness center.

For more information on how you can make a difference in the lives of seniors in our area, contact: Dionne Rose, Activity Director/Volunteer Coordinator Baptist Homes, 489 Castle Shannon Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15234 Phone 412-572-8254 or email drose@baptisthomes.org

Come to the Cookie Walk

Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Carnegie will be hosting its ninth annual Cookie Walk on Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy walking table to table and “going around the world,” encountering cookies and pastries that represent over 30 countries, including nut rolls, nut crescents, Ukranian Truffles, Kolache, and more!

Most cookies are sold by the pound. Proceeds benefit St. Matrona’s Ladies Society in providing community outreach support.

Volunteer Fire Department Candy Pass Out

For those looking ahead and planning their calendars, the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department has announced that on Saturday, December 15 a “special visitor” will be making his rounds throughout the neighborhoods of USC between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in hopes to greet all the Township boys and girls (and their families, too!) with treats.

Listen for the sirens as fire department volunteers announce his stop in your neighborhood.

Bundle everyone up and then venture outside to share in the festive time. It can be as much fun for the adults as it is for the kids. We are all children at heart! Family pets are invited, too.

Mark your calendar, lest you forget!

Sniffing for a treat!

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Different Approaches to Health Heather Holtschlag

For many, eating healthy and getting in shape may be a New Year’s Resolution or a promise made around springtime, just before summer arrives and pool season nears. But two Upper St. Clair residents have very different reasons for wanting to stay healthy and they hope to help others, as well.

Reena Hamade, a certified personal trainer, was overweight as a child and constantly being teased. At age 14, she joined Weight Watchers but was not successful. She tried sports, but nothing appealed to her. She was not very fast and lacked endurance.

“My sister took me to the gym with her the summer before my freshman year of high school, and I have been going ever since,” she said. “The exercise I do at the gym has made me feel so good about myself, a feeling I never before experienced. It gives me confidence and has really brought me out of my shell; I feel like I am good at something, and it is very empowering.”

Reena pursued personal training as a career because it is a good way for her to share what she knows, what she has done, and to help people. She said that she knows what it is like to be an overweight child, teen, and adult, and fitness is a way for her to help others feel better about themselves.

“My goal with my clients, first and foremost, is for them to feel good about themselves and to accomplish their goals, whatever those might be,” Reena explained. “It also is good for them to have a support system—an outlet—a place where they can go and have my undivided attention. We talk about issues that may be hindering their progress, such as stress, work, kids, and family, and we celebrate their successes.”

Reena strives to be a positive role model Reena Hamade spots a client. for her two daughters, as well. “I am trying to teach them that fitness is about being healthy and strong. My hope is that if I instill a healthy lifestyle and attitude in them now, it will stick with them for life.”

Wellness coach and nutritional instructor Kathy Gillen was raised in a health-conscious environment, with parents who ate and served healthy foods, not to mention that she has always considered herself a bit of a health nut.

“My degree in food management allowed me to work in the food industry, but I always cared about the type of foods I ate,” Kathy said. “I was fortunate to learn early on how important high-quality foods are not only to taste, but to our health. I’m passionate about eating well, and that is what I want to convey to everyone I work with.”

Kathy Gillen finds that healthy greens like kale are a hard sell even for her own son, Graham.

Kathy’s motivation to stay healthy and help others is from a different type of source. Her youngest daughter was born with a degenerative disease that prohibits her cells from properly metabolizing food into energy. She was given a two-year life expectancy.

“When I got the news that her disease somehow involved food, I ran with it. I put her on a diet that is easy to digest, gets nutrients quickly to the cells and gives her what she needs to produce energy. She has outlived all predictions and is now 11 years old. Her story and ability to overcome health obstacles through proper diet motivates me to help others.”

Kathy provides a number of services to a variety of different audiences, including schools, local businesses, and one-on-one wellness coaching. She also has given several lectures on topics such as “The Benefits of a Whole Food Diet,” “The Secret to Ultimate Energy,” “The Health Benefits of Chocolate and Other Treats,” and “Pass Me the Chips: How to Snack for Health.”

“I talk about food and health all the time with my family,” she explained. “Sometimes my teens roll their eyes, but by talking about food, including the family in cooking, and making it a priority, they understand the importance of a good diet. I tell my clients, ‘If your child had a problem with reading or math, you would rush to the school and work out a plan with the teacher to fix it.’ Eating well is a life skill that has an impact larger than even reading or math. We should all take the time to make a plan.” n For more information about Kathy’s services, visit her website at www.wellnessroadtrip.com or call 412-427-1137. For more information about the services that Reena offers, contact reenaleilani@yahoo.com.

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on People with a USC Connection

Know of a resident to profile?

Jim O’Brien’s Immaculate Reflections Jim Meston

Jim O’Brien

Longtime Upper St. Clair resident and writer Jim O’Brien has been busy producing his 21st book in 33 years. His mastery of his craft has emerged once again in his newest creation entitled Immaculate Reflections.

Quoting from a part of the information on the inside flap will give you a good sense of some of the book’s content.

The 2012-2013 season marks the anniversary of many important events for sports fans in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. It marks the 120th anniversary of the founding of professional football in Pittsburgh, the 80th anniversary of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 50th anniversary of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, and the 40th anniversary of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.”

This book also honors the memory of Roberto Clemente’s death 40 years ago on New Year’s Eve, 1972. In addition to stories and reflections about the Steelers and the Pirates, there are stories about the Penguins, Pitt, Duquesne, “You’re a real Carnegie Mellon, Penn State, Pittsburgh boxing, and other sports on every level. You will be introduced to some Pittsburgh guy.” colorful sports personalities whom you might not have known or remembered. Celebrated photographer Les Banos will be profiled—asArtaRooney, Sr. friend of Clemente who was supposed to accompany Roberto on that doomed flight. O’Brien also profiles some well known celebrities like George Steinbrenner, and many people you may not have known, but who were important participants in the wide world of Pittsburgh sports history. Jim draws on his 56 years experience of covering and writing about sports personalities and provides the reader with his insights and little known facts about some famous local sports celebrities.

Several years ago, the legendary sports writer and broadcaster Myron Cope said “Jim O’Brien is Pittsburgh’s premier sports historian.”

Pittsburgh Proud Series The trail that he has blazed with the variety of books he has created on so many of our local sports heroes greatly justifies* Myron’s accolade* about Jim. Jim is a busy person. In addition to producing his books, he writes a weekly column in The Valley Mirror and an occasional column and features for The Pittsburgh Business Times. He also teaches a class in Pittsburgh’s Rich Sports History in the Osher Institute Program at the University of Pittsburgh and is a volunteer contributor for UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. In reality, he’s a one-man conglomerate.

RIenProud” oief”’anB Whatever Jim’s doing, he’s meeting people and developing material for his columns and his books. He personally urgh JIm d “Pittsb Ch of “The fills several roles, that of author, editor, designer, manager of promotion, marketing, and advertising. In addition to Author all that, he’s the publisher. When a new book of his comes out, Jim spends a considerable amount of time locating himself somewhere, usually a mall, where he can meet people and market and sell his books.

What keeps Jim running on high gear? He once told me what motivates and rewards him. “I learn so much when I write a book, and that’s exactly how I want the readers to feel. Every time I write a book, I end up being enthralled with someone or something that I wasn’t even thinking about when I started. I’m not concerned about running out of topics; I’m more concerned about running out of steam. We have such a rich sports heritage e around here with many outstanding achievements and sports personalities. Pittsburgh has so much pride in t a ul mmac Ions our heroes!” t Jim relates that at 14 years old he had the pleasure of meeting Myron Cope. Even before that, Jim had been eflec More tes And ns * Pira * dedicated to becoming a writer. He asked Myron, “What do I have to do to become a writer?” Jim relayed ui n ng ie Pe O’Br Steelers * that Myron simply said, “Sit down and start writing.” Jim took his advice and his been honing his craft for the past 55 years.

Jim gives every indication that he’s going to keep right on writing. And I am glad that he will continue to provide interesting sports material for our enjoyment. In the meantime, Jim hopes you will enjoy Immaculate Reflections as much as he enjoyed researching and writing it.

This is Book No. 21 in sports author Jim O’Brien’s Pittsburgh Proud series. So it’s in honor of The Great One, Roberto Clemente, who died 40 years ago on New Year’s Eve, 1972.

It is a collection of columns and reflections on topics of interest to fans from his days as a sportswriter in Miami, New York and Pittsburgh.

O’Brien has been writing about sports since he was 14 years old and began his career as the sports editor of The Hazelwood Envoy in his hometown in inner-city Pittsburgh. He took pride in having Steelers’ owner Art Rooney – the nicest man he ever met in sports – tell him, “You’re a real Pittsburgh guy.”

He has covered all kinds of sports and met the most celebrated athletes in a career that spans more than 55 years. He is a graduate of Taylor Allderdice High School and the University of Pittsburgh, with a degree in English and some graduate level studies in Literature.

He is presently writing a weekly column in The Valley Mirror, an occasional column and features for The Pittsburgh Business Times, and is teaching a class in Pittsburgh’s Rich Sports History in the Osher Institute Program at the University of Pittsburgh.

This book demonstrates his versatility as a writer. He was the smallest kid in the neighborhood playing sports in Hazelwood and Glenwood, but found a way to make it to the major leagues in every imaginable sport.

He has been married for 45 years to Kathleen Churchman O’Brien and they are the parents of Sarah and Rebecca, and the grandparents of Margaret and Susannah.

James P. O’Brien — Publishing P.O. Box 12580 Pittsburgh PA 15241 412-221-3580 E-mail: jimmyo64@gmail.com www.jimobriensportsauthor.com

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

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Two graduates of Upper St. Clair High School, Meghan Christie and Collin Feduska, have at least two things in common. They are both USC graduates of the class of 2008 and they both recently began studies as members of the class of 2016 at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.

Meghan and Collin were welcomed as new medical students this past August during a white coat ceremony honoring the students and attended by their families. Meghan is a 2012 graduate of Pennsylvania State University and Collin is 2012 graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

Congratulations and good luck to both Meghan and Collin!

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Kristy G. Cupelli D.M.D. Pediatric Dentistry

Alfred A. Cupelli D.M.D.

Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

411 McMurray Road, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102 412/831-3373 Fax: 412/831-3777

Le Blue Stella Upper St. Clair High School alum

Le Blue Stella, other USC crew included assistant director Dominic Rodriguez, who also worked with Rosati on Bad Kids, and art director Kyle Scheoppner. Rosati’s sister, Anna, a senior at USCHS, worked as art team and script supervisor, and his brother, Jacob, who did the sound track for Bad Kids, provided the music and sound track for Le Blue Stella. Students from Point Park and Emerson also worked on the film.

Rosati said he did not want to rush postproduction, but his goal

Peter Rosati and his crew were busy this past August working on Le Blue Stella, a short film about best friends Eric and Alex who create a spaceship as an escape when they face a challenge in their friendship.

Rosati, a film production major at Emerson College in Boston, said Le Blue Stella refers to the name of the ship used by the main characters and also represents other elements in the film. Portraying the 12-year-old friends are USC middle school students Sheb Rosati and Anthony Rach.

Le Blue Stella is not the first film Rosati has made using local talent. Bad Kids, a film Rosati made last year, featured several USC residents as actors. Bad Kids screened at the Killjoy film and music festival in Boston and was one of four films nominated for Best Student Film at Emerson’s EVVY Awards.

In addition to Rosati, the writer, director, producer, Peter Rosati (background) gets ready to direct and production designer for his brother, Sheb (foreground).

was to have the film done before 2013 with a Pittsburgh premiere. Once Le Blue Stella is complete, Rosati plans to submit it to various festivals, where he thinks it will stand out from the competition because of its strong acting, story, and design. n

Anthony Rach and Sheb Rosati

Links to Bad Kids and other videos by Peter Rosati can be viewed at www.vimeo.com/peterrosati. Also, check out TODAY’s online “feature” section that will list Le Blue Stella’s Pittsburgh premiere date and location.

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Carson Kerr, on the slopes

The Slopes Are Calling In addition to hitting the books when he went back to school this year, Upper St. Clair’s Carson Kerr is hitting the slopes. Carson is spending his sophomore year of high school at Windells Academy in Mt. Hood, Oregon. Each day he spends about four hours on the slopes, stops for lunch, and puts in another four hours of school with the Keystone National High School cyber-school.

Carson, who placed third at the Gatorade Free Flow Tour 2012, is moving up the ranks in free ski, and his parents, dentists Drs. Tim and Romana Kerr, realized that to make it to the next level he needed more training than he could get locally.

Romana said Carson did the research about where he could get the coaching he needed to progress in free ski, and Windells was his choice.

Windells Academy students receive one-on-one personalized coaching and academic support and have access to natural snow 12 months a year. In addition to the training facilities on campus, each semester students travel to other ski areas, including Park City, Utah; Summit County, Colorado; Lake Tahoe, California; and Whistler, British Columbia.

Besides skiing and academics, Windells Academy students also work with sports psychologists, manufacturers’ reps, marketing people, and others to learn how to promote themselves and present their image.

“It’s a lot more than skiing,” said Tim. While Romana said Carson was excited about attending Windells, she admitted it was tough sending him so far away while he’s so young. “He’s doing some pretty risky stuff,” said Romana, “and we won’t be able to be at his competitions to support him.”

“Once we met the people, we were more comfortable with him being there,” said Tim. “There are skiers and boarders from all over the world. This is what’s best for him and it’s where he needs to be now.”

Carson wasn’t the only Kerr leaving home this fall; the Kerr’s oldest son, Conrad, started his freshman year at the University of Dayton. Still at home, and keeping their parents busy, are Collin, an eighth grader at Fort Couch, and Celena, a fourth grader at Eisenhower Elementary. n

Luke Stork Travels for Hockey

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Luke Stork’s senior year of high school is a little different from most of his USC classmates.

The oldest son of Jeff and Missy Stork, Luke played forward for the AAA Pittsburgh Hornets for the past five years, and also played center his freshman and sophomore years on USCHS’s hockey team. A few years ago, Missy recalled Luke’s Hornets’ coach, Jeff Potter, telling them that Luke was being highly scouted and would probably be drafted.

“We knew nothing about the draft,” laughed Missy, which she described as similar to an NHL draft. Two years ago, Luke went in the third round of the United States Hockey League (USHL) futures draft to the Youngstown Phantoms. Luke also had an option to go to the Ontario Hockey League, but would have had to forgo college eligibility if he chose that route.

This past June, Luke tried out and made the Phantoms team as a forward. He and another hockey player are living with the Bilet family in Youngstown. Missy admits

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that it’s tough having him gone, but knowing that he is living with a “great family” helps.

Instead of returning to USCHS this year, Luke is attending Usuline High School in Youngstown, Ohio. After a full day of classes, he normally will get something to eat with friends, and then head to the rink for practice each afternoon.

With Luke playing in Youngtown, Missy, Jeff, and their younger son, Logan, a sophomore at USCHS, plan to attend as many Phantoms home games as they can.

The Phantoms’ regular 64-game season runs from September to April, with home games played at the Covelli Center.

“It’s really awesome for us that he’s so close, and we can go and see him,” said Missy.

Luke’s future plans include college, and a number of schools have already expressed interest. Jeff explained that he’ll have another year with the Phantoms before starting at a university.

Jeff commented, “We’re so proud of him.” n

Upper St. Clair Lions Club announced the winners of the 2012-13 Lions Peace Poster contest for USC students ages 11 through 13. They are Anily Allsop, Boyce Middle School; Mark Blubaugh, Wesley Spectrum Services; Nathan Deitrich, St. Louise de Marillac School; and Victor Dubbs, Fort Couch Middle School. Each received a $50 check from USC Lions and their posters advanced to the District level.

Each year, Lions clubs around the world sponsor contests in local schools and youth groups. The art contest is designed to encourage young people to express their visions of peace. For 25 years, more than four million children from nearly 100 countries have participated in this contest.

The theme of the 2012-13 Peace Poster contest is “Imagine Peace.” Each poster is judged on originality, artistic merit, and expression of the theme. Posters adNathan Deitrich (center) of St. Louise de vance through several judging levels. At Marillac with Lion Ken Marshall and art teacher Mary Ann Rodaitis the international level, judges select one grand prize winner of $5000 and 23 merit award winners of $500 each. The grand prize winner also receives a trip to the United Nations on Lions Day. Information about the contest and a slideshow of last year’s international winners are available at www.lionsclubs.org. In the search box, enter “Peace Poster Contest.” Information about USC Lions is available by contacting Lion Ken Marshall at 412-489-3765. n

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CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE & HERBS CENTER

Xuan Maggie Liu, L. Ac, Cheng Charlie Yang, L. Ac

• LICENSED ACUPUNCTURISTS• Trained in China

Back/Neck Pain • Headaches/Migraines Infertility • Anxiety/Depression

IVF/IUI Support • Facial Rejuvenation Weight Control • and Much MORE

412-563-3328 Mt. Lebanon Professional Building 20 Cedar Blvd., Suite 301 Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

www.pittsburghacupuncture.com

Spiritual Healing Expected Here

Victor Dubbs of Fort Couch Middle School

for all mankind and you!

Anily Allsop (right), Boyce Middle School with school counselor Vicki Cayuela

FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST 1100 Washington Road • 412-561-1125

Mark Blubaugh, Wesley Spectrum Services with teacher Michelle Hilty

Winter 2012

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Exercise Should Be More Than an Obligation Fran Joyce

Kids love to play, but as we grow up play becomes exercise and that changes everything. Exercise becomes an obligation, and obligations just aren’t fun. With rising obesity rates, we are facing a serious health crisis. After age 20, women begin losing flexibility; their fitness level and strength decline at about nine percent each decade. In our 40s, our metabolism begins to slow down and we often start to gain weight and experience health problems. Exercise can help women maintain or achieve healthy weights, improve cardiovascular health, prevent diabetes, relieve arthritis, lower cholesterol, prevent osteoporosis, alleviate stress, and combat depression. We all know we should exercise, but how do we make exercise feel like play again?

I found the answer in an unexpected place. Some friends invited me to try Zumba at the Westminster Recreational Outreach Center in January 2008. I was 47, and I didn’t know the first thing about Zumba. Lucky for me, the instructor, Debbie Colditz, did.

“Zumba,” she explained, “fuses Latin and international dance themes to create a dynamic, exciting, and effective exercise system.” When the music started all eyes were on Debbie. Her movements were fluid and graceful, and she made us all feel like

we were dancing at a fiesta. I actually forgot that I was exercising.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, I still do.

I suppose I could dance at home. Zumba does have several excellent DVDs, but it wouldn’t be the same. I found more than just an effective exercise class. I found an unwavering support system and some incredible friends. It’s where I belong. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, Debbie was one of the only people I told. I continued coming to class during chemo and radiation. I had minimal side effects; the exercise and camaraderie helped me stay positive.

Debbie and the WROC have created a community­­—a family. Looking around class, I see women of all ages, from teens to an 80-year-old. I see women who are here from all over the world—Japan, India, Colombia, Spain, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, and Germany. I know who has a birthday or a new grandchild, and who is sick or has lost a loved one. We care about each other. Whatever burdens we bring through the door, for the next hour we laugh, sweat, and feel good about taking the time to do something just for us. That feels a lot like playing to me. n

Give They Already Did.

In recognition of our United States veterans, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is beginning a year-long contribution campaign

Luminaria— A Local Tradition In Upper St. Clair, the luminaria program is organized by the USC Band Parents as a fundraiser to benefit the USC music department students. This year, the band parents and students will assemble the kits December 6-7 and deliver them to residents on December 8.

Become part of the tradition this year! To order your luminaria kits, including 12 candles, bags, and sand, visit the USC Band Parents website, www.uscbpa.org, and order online using PayPal or a credit card or complete and mail the order form below. For more information, call Rich McCormick at 412-831-3947. n Luminaria Kit Order Form Name: _____________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________

requesting $7 per veteran recognized, which represents $1 for each of the seven branches of the U.S. military. A donor has been secured for the summer 2013 cover of TODAY to start us on our way!

The community’s financial support with this project will help to complete the goals of the Upper St. Clair Veterans Park (USCVP), which includes a perpetual maintenance fund so future generations can enjoy the beauty of this park.

Your acknowledgment(s) will be printed in an upcoming issue of TODAY.

Upper St. Clair Veterans Park Donation Form (Clip… Complete… Contribute… Mail… Today!)

In appreciation for—name of veteran(s)__________________ _________________________________________________ My Name(s) _______________________________________ (example: Sue Smith, Merchant Marine—the Bob Smith Family) Attach separate sheet of paper, if needed.

Requested donation—$7/veteran.

# of kits: __________ x $10/kit = Total enclosed: $_________

My contribution (check payable to USCVP): $_____________ Mail form and check to: USCVP/TODAY 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Make check payable to: USC Band Parents Association Mail to: USC Band Parents Association, 328 Clair Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Upper St. Clair Veterans Park, Inc. is a charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Zip: ____________ Phone: ___________________________

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Winter 2012

The Flower Studio, located in the Crossgates Plaza at the intersection of Washington and Fort Couch Roads has quickly become Pittsburgh’s fastest growing full-service florist.

Specializing in a wide selection of fresh, premium flowers, experienced designers customize spectacular arrangements for weddings, celebrations, sympathy, corporate gifts, banquets, corporate events, and home décor.

Just in time for the holidays, The Flower Studio will custom design a beautiful wreath for your front door in just a few days. Swags, centerpieces, and premium poinsettias make beautiful personal and corporate gifts. Choose from an exciting array of customized gift baskets shipped for you to anywhere in the world.

Specially-designed theme baskets provide an array of international and local specialties, with something for everyone!

If you’re looking to reduce the stress of decorating your home or business for the holidays, The Flower Studio can do it for you.

Call for a personal consultation with a design specialist. It’s as easy as that! n Like them on Facebook or give them a call at 412-831-4700 for any and all of your holiday needs. Click on flowerstudiopa.com for more information. See ad on page 27.

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The Flower Studio— a Full Service Florist

busINESSES

at yourservice 550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

412.563.2858

PRESCHOOL (AGES 2-6) THRU 6TH GRADE OPENINGS AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES

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Painting & Restoration ◆ Interior Remodeling Our Name Guarantees Excellence! ◆ Custom Design Mouldings ◆ Wood Repair & Restoration ◆ Wood Staining & Finishing

◆ Faux Finishing ◆ Plaster and Dry Wall Repairs ◆ Venetian Plaster

Professional Workmanship ◆ Fully Insured

412-835-3890

Continued from page 25

the 20 extra pounds I had accumulated over the years. I can only imagine the sight when Mr. Bacon Grease met Mr. Fish Oil in my arteries. The grease was victorious and over repeated encounters with similar fatty foods, Mr. Plaque developed and flourished.

I plan on making some changes in my diet; maybe not as many as I should, but enough to influence a better balance of what I take in. At 83 years old I’m not going to give up some of my favorite foods, but reduce the quantity and frequency, and supplement with more fruits and vegetables. As a necessity after open heart surgery, I will continue to walk and exercise regularly.

Many people have had open heart surgery and everyone has their own opinion. I doubt you’d find anyone who would say the first few days after surgery were easy. I think everyone would agree that as time goes on you gradually begin to feel better. After my operation, I went to the St. Clair Hospital Cardio Vascular Surgical Unit. Staffed by dedicated and proficient nurses and nurses’ aides, they are not only skillful, but also cheerful and optimistic.

They reassured me that what I was experiencing is normal and things would improve. Dr. Woelfel is their leader. Every morning while I was there (and

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I was told it’s every morning), he appeared at exactly 6 a.m. to look in on his patients and review our charts. After his rounds, he was off for his morning surgeries.

While there, I was visited by several specialty people, dietitians, and exercise experts telling me about the follow up availability at St. Clair Hospital and they provided me printed materials about the things that I could and could not do in the following days and weeks. As I began to feel better, I likewise increased my activity. After a few days of walking around and making sure I was progressing, I was able to leave the hospital.

I don’t see how anyone could leave the hospital without someone at home to help you. Pretty weak, even breathing was difficult.

I elected to go to Manor Care in Peters Township, where I had the benefit of experienced physical and occupational therapists and some more excellent nurses and aides. Every day, I got stronger and more confident in my walking. The information that I was given says it takes about six weeks to feel good, and after eight weeks I would be pretty much back to normal.

I was also told that more than 50% of open heart surgical patients are diabetic. So, in addition to watching the number of bacon strips, it’s also a good idea to limit the pies and cakes—not altogether, but enjoy them in moderation—in the quest for good health. In so doing, you will hopefully avoid having your chest sliced open by Fast Freddy. And, as good as he is, you want to do all you can to avoid meeting him under hospital-related circumstances. Believe me, it will be worth the effort! n Winter 2012

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18 Years of

Winter 2012

www.twpusc.org/magazine

Community Service

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

Advertiser Page

* Amel’s Restaurant .................................................................................. 28 Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. ...................................................................... 17 Ashland University ................................................................................ 62 BISTECCA - STEAKHOUSE - WINE BAR ............................................... 26 * Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ................................................. 33 Brentwood Bank ...................................................................................... 7 Brookside Lumber ................................................................................. 53 C.W. Carlson Contractors, Inc. .............................................................. 71 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................. 57 * Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior ............................. 81 Center for Theater Arts ........................................................................... 35 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC ........................................... 79 * Clark Renovations, Inc. ......................................................................... 73 * Coffey Contracting Company ................................................................ 74

Kletz Contracting, Inc. ........................................................................... 15 Lakeside Primary Care, a practice of The Washington Hospital ............. 69 Learning Express Toys ........................................................................... 27 Louis Anthony Jewelers ........................................................................... 5 * Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ....................................................................... 42 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy ..................................... 81 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 21 NEWBURY HOMES........................................................Front inside cover Orthodontics by Dr. Reitz & Dr. Troy ...................................................... 43 Pediatric Dentistry South ....................................................................... 42 * Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 43 * Pinebridge Commons Associates .......................................................... 42 Pittsburgh Shoulder to Hand Center ...................................................... 77 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company .......................................................... 28

The staff of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY would like to take a moment and thank all of our wonderful advertisers who have supported our publication over the past 18 years. We couldn’t do it without you!

* Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate .................Back outside cover * Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office ...................84, Back inside cover Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey ........................................................... 57 Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park ...................... 55 * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. .......................................................................... 77 First Church of Christ, Scientist ............................................................ 79 * Friendship Village of South Hills ............................................................. 2 Furgiuele-Iracki, Natalie, MD ................................................................. 67 * Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ............................................................................. 64 * Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh .................................................... 61 Howard Hanna–Bob Ellison ................................................................... 71 * Howard Hanna–Susan Highley .............................................................. 17 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .............................................................. 53 Howard Hanna–Frankie J. Kunselman ................................................... 73 IAOMO Salon ........................................................................................ 37 JAB Jewelry Designs ............................................................................. 28 Jefferson Regional Medical Center ........................................................ 63 Johnny’s Tire and Auto .......................................................................... 75 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...................................................... 43 *The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a minimum of 36 issues.

Thank you.

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Premier Home Design Center .................................................................. 2 Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society Community ........................ 66 R&R Masonry Restoration ..................................................................... 61 * St. Clair Hospital ............................................................................... 3, 83 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors .............................................................. 7 * Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 26 South Hills Endoscopy Center ................................................................. 1 South Hills OBGYN, Drs. Rankin & Mecs, MD, FACOG..............................Front cover, 12, 13 South Hills Orthopaedic ........................................................................ 65 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ..................................................... 42 StonePepper’s Grill ................................................................................ 29 The Flower Studio ................................................................................. 27 Travel Leaders ....................................................................................... 43 Tutu ....................................................................................................... 77 Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas and Rebecca Lutz ....................... 59 West Penn Allegheny Health System ....................................................... 9 Yoga Flow, Inc. ...................................................................................... 74

Classifieds To place your small business or professional ad in the classified section, send 35 words or less with a check for $75, made payable to the Township of Upper St. Clair, to: UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

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Advertiser Index

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Upcoming guides for the Spring 2013 issue include Celebration and Home Improvement.

... meeting your needs TODAY, Tomorrow, and into the Future

RANKED AMONG THE 100 TOP OSPITALS NATIONWIDE.

St. Clair Hospital has been ranked among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by Thomson Reuters. This prestigious award is based on an objective analysis of St. Clair’s clinical outcomes, patient safety, patient satisfaction and clinical efficiency, all key indicators of performance excellence.

St. Clair salutes its talented and dedicated physicians and employees for delivering this superior care through state-of-the-art technologies and advanced processes.

1 0 0 0 B OW E R H I L L R OA D

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M T. L E B A N O N , P E N N SY LVA N I A 1 5 2 4 3

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412.942.4000

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W W W . S TC L A I R . O R G

C oldwell B anker Hope Bassichis

Jack & Joanne Benson Norma Bishop

Anita Crago

Kathy Enick

Barbara Cusick

Bonnie Frear

Janine Guthrie

Noel Bliman

Lynn Dempsey

John Geisler

Janine Dillon

Dal Goldstein

Leigh Harkreader Nancy Heffernan

Bonnie Byrnes

Genie Gooding

Judy Hlister

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS The South Hills Office

1630 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 • (412)833-5405 84

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2012

Real estate seRvices Sydnie Jones

Arlene Murray

Carol Marks

Tulla Rakoczy

Kathi Kernan

Sue Kelso

Kathy Sekeras

Carmela Viviano

Heather Orstein

Erica Shulsky

Jim Walsh

Jane Krauth

Toni Petrucci

Diane Snyder

Mary Ann Wellener

Julie Leslie

Mary Torchia

David Bruckner, Manager

LOCAL TRADITIONS The South Hills Office

1630 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 • (412)833-5405 ©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

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

ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTE

1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

POSTAL CUSTOMER Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

This magazine was printed on recycled paper.

COLDWELL BANKER www.PittsburghMoves.com/SouthHills Check out these fabulous Upper St. Clair area homes!

Spacious, charm, and quality appointments in this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath colonial!

Flexible floor plan, equipped kitchen, family room, den, 4 fireplaces, and lower level!

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Sunken living room, kitchen with center island, 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, family room, den, game room, and 3 car garage.

Pristine condition, sprawling floor plan, marble entry, wonderful kitchen, step down lavish living room, 5 bedrooms, 2.5 custom baths, family room, den, and game room.

Classic and elegant stone home in Trotwood Acres! Open floor plan, living room fireplace, family room with wall of windows, and access to stone patio. 4 bedrooms and 3 baths.

Beautiful all brick spacious colonial. Features wonderful kitchen, French doors, exposed wood floors, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, family room, fireplace, game room & deck.

Fabulous, circular floor plan and kitchen redo! Gourmet kitchen, 1st floor laundry, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and large enclosed porch with deck. Cul-de-sac community!

Wonderful home for entertaining! Large rooms, family room cathedral ceiling, beautiful kitchen cabinets, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and lower level game room.

Custom provincial on cul-de-sac featuring cathedral ceiling entry, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room, den, and 1st floor laundry. Central vac, deck, and 3 car garage!

Updated, move in condition colonial with excellent curb appeal. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, family room fireplace, spacious kitchen to deck, and newer landscaping!

Quality home, remodeled throughout!

Gorgeous equipped kitchen to family room with fireplace, den, 4 bedrooms, and 2+2 baths. Cul-de-sac location on level lot!

Unbelievably well maintained colonial with open floor plan, neutral décor, updates, family room fireplace, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, covered front porch, and rear deck!

Spacious and beautifully updated!

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath multi-level with family room fireplace, built-ins, and walk-out to covered patio. Lower level game room!

Meticulously maintained townhouse! Level entry, sunken living room, dining room, patio, and yard. Eat-in kitchen to family room with fireplace. 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.

Well maintained home on a picture perfect lot! Open floor plan, updated, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, living room, and family room with fireplace. Large finished basement.

Nice split entry all brick home with great room sizes, eat-in kitchen, 2 fireplaces, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and large game room!

One level living! Spacious ranch with 3 bedrooms, updated 2.5 baths, updated kitchen, 2 fireplaces, game room wet bar, patio, and 2 car garage!

Sydnie Jones 412-833-5405

Joyce Lewis-McDonough 412-833-5405

Tulla Rakoczy 412-833-5405

Kathy Enick 412-833-5405

Tim Ulam & Sue Franz 412-831-5555

Leigh Harkreader 412-833-5405

Anita Crago 412-833-5405

John Adair 412-833-5405

Jim Walsh 412-833-5405

Denise Tacka 412-833-5405

John Adair 412-833-5405

Shirley Smith 412-831-5555

Lynn Dempsey 412-833-5405

Sharon Ritchey 412-831-5555

Janine Guthrie 412-833-5405

Sharon Ritchey 412-831-5555

©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.