WINTER 2011

“Simply Original” designs by JAB Jewelry and Joe Bonasso, a USCHS Arts Hall of Famer

www.twpusc.org/magazine The official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

2589 Boyce Plaza RoadUpper St. Clair, PA 15241

1350 Locust Street, Ste. 406Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Call today 412.232.8104Most insurance carriers accepted

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

SOUTH HILLS ENDOSCOPY CENTERSOUTH HILLS ENDOSCOPY CENTERLocated at 2589 Boyce Plaza Road in Upper St. Clair

IS A STATE-OF-THE-ART FULL CARE ENDOSCOPY FACILITY PROVIDING BOTH COLONOSCOPY AND UPPER ENDOSCOPY SCREENINGS AND SERVICES

“Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life.”

• We treat acid reflux, heartburn, ulcers, diarrhea, change in bowel habits and hemorrhoids• Physicians on staff at St. Clair Hospital and UPMC Mercy Hospital• “Compassionate, personalized Anesthesia Care delivered by the Nurse Anesthetist team of

Mahoning Valley Anesthesia Services”

2 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2011

Grow your talents and discover new ones. Expand your mind and explore the world. You’ll be amazed at the big thinking – and big opportunities – that unfold everyday at Chatham. Take classes in another country. Learn what it means to live green. Develop an entrepreneurial spirit. And get involved in the world on a more meaningful level. Small class sizes and dedicated professors let you soar and explore in unbelievable ways.

Chatham advantages• Experience a distinctive education built upon women’s leadership, environmental awareness,

and global understanding• Study on our historic 39-acre Shadyside Campus, minutes from downtown, and at our

388-acre Eden Hall Campus north of Pittsburgh• SAT/ACT optional admissions policy available for first-year students• Nearly 95% of Chatham undergraduate students receive some form of merit or need-based

scholarship• All first-year and transfer students are provided with a new 13-inch MacBook Pro laptop

computer for use in the classroom and throughout our wireless campus• Most students have the opportunity to earn a bach elor’s and a master’s degree from

Chatham in as few as five years from many of our graduate programs• Study abroad almost anywhere in the world during Maymester term, a full term, or a full year

Big thinking for a big world

Woodland Road . . . Pittsburgh, PA 15232

800-837-1290 . . . [email protected]

Winter 2011 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 3

1000 Bower Hill Road . Mt. Lebanon, PA 15243 . 412.942.4000 . WWW.STCLAIR.ORG

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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.

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Friendship Village of South Hills is one of only 15% of communities nationwide accredited for quality practices

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CarpetArea RugsVinylCeramicHardwoodLaminatesWindow TreatmentsQuartz CountertopsBathroom Enhancements& More!!!

Winter 2011 • Volume 17 • Issue 4

58 Kids library activities abound

21 Holiday doors of Springfield

49 USC Veterans Park

44 Upper St. Clair High School 2011 Halls of Fame

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

Features and Around the Township10 ’Tis the Season , The Urge to Purge—Trash, that Is The trash revolution in America and how we can respond with recycling efforts

16 Gilfillan’s Gift to You Preserving Gifillan Homestead through technology

18 Two Greats—Armon Gilliam and Sean Casey Author Jim O’Brien shares a story about two local greats.

77 Rotary Serves Many Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary celebrates another year of service.

78 Profiles on People with a USC Connection Who made our list?

School District30 New Teachers USC prepares new teachers in our District using an extensive, internal induction program.

32 Student Leadership Academy 2011 Now in its second year, five different leadership academies were offered to students in our District.

35 Value-Added Assessment Following the progress of students over time helps educators better measure and capitalize on academic growth opportunities.

40 Pawprints—A USC PTA Council Highlight Read about each school’s PTA or PTSO.

42 USC School District Homecoming Gala Partnering with the Community Foundation of USC, the first annual Homecoming Gala was very successful.

Township51 Introducing Liquid into the Snow Fighting Operation Road deicing efforts in USC now include salt brine.

54 Beating Cabin Fever The Outdoor Classroom shares activities to keep you and yours from becoming restless.

56 @ Your Library Don’t wait for summer! Programs and activities abound “@ Your Library” during the winter season, too.

60 C&RC Expands “Healthy Choices” New offerings at the C&RC help to get you on your way to a healthy lifestyle.

65 Flag Finds Home at USCVFD A 48-star flag has traveled and, now, finds a new home.

Guides22 Holidays... a Time for Giving46 Pinebridge Commons68 Life Planning

USC Photo Ops36 A Day in the District 63 Staff of the C&RC53 Our Public Works Employees

Cover14 Designers Art Rivero and Angelo Zucca are two of the professionals producing beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry at JAB Jewelry Designs, this edition’s cover sponsor. On pages 14 and 15, writer and photographer Terry Kish takes you be-hind the wall of JAB’s showroom to show you what sets them apart and why they’re “Simply Original” in the local market.


Spring 2012 edition deadlines: Articles–January 12, Advertising–January 16

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 2012 issue and will be published in March 2012. 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 15241or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, at [email protected].

Subscription InformationIf 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.

Printed by Herrmann Printing & Litho, Inc.1709 Douglass Drive • Pittsburgh, PA 15221

412-243-4100 • Fax: 412-731-2268Design by DMC Design

412-824-7844 • www.dmcdesign.com

PublishersMatthew R. Serakowski

Township Manager

Dr. Patrick T. O’TooleSuperintendent of Schools

Steering Committee Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager

Paul K. Fox, School District Representative

Editors and StaffLinda M. Dudzinski, Editor-in-Chief

Terry Kish, Associate EditorColleen DeMarco, Office Manager

Lynn Dempsey, Senior Advertising AssociateErin Gibson Allen, Advertising Associate

Alison Hess, Advertising AssociateDorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Andrew McCreery, Finance

The 68th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a joint publication of the Township and

School District of Upper St. Clair.© Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.

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 TODAY1820 McLaughlin Run Road

Upper St. Clair, PA 15241Phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284

Fax: 412-851-2592Email: [email protected]

Township : 412-831-9000School District: 412-833-1600

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue:Erin Gibson Allen, Dr. John Bornyas, Cindy Brophy,

Lauren Brush, Dr. Judith Bulazo, Dr. Mark Cedar, Dr. Daniel Erlanger, Dina Fulmer, Amie Guarino,

Dr. Natalie Furgiuele-Iracki, Kelly Haywiser, Heather Holtschlag, Gina Kallick,

George Kostelich, Jr., Jim O’Brien, Jessica Kester, Ron Sarrick, Gary Schafer, Mary Lynne Spazok,

Danielle Thomas, and Jay Walsh.

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 [email protected] to find out how your student can contribute.


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

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY steering committee and staff members are, left to right, front row: Lynn Dempsey, Erin Allen, Alison Hess, Colleen DeMarco, and Dorothy Clark; back row: Mark Mansfield, Terry Kish, Paul Fox, Linda Dudzinski, and Andrew McCreery

Board of School DirectorsHarry F. Kunselman President

Rebecca A. Stern, Vice PresidentAmy L. BillerbeckBarbara L. BolasFrank J. Kerber

Bruce L. KermanLouis P. Mafrice, Jr.Angela B. Petersen

Louis A. Piconi

Township Board of CommissionersRobert W. Orchowski, President, Ward 3

Glenn R. Dandoy, Vice President, At LargePreston W. Shimer, Ward 1Mark R. Hamilton, Ward 2Mark D. Christie, Ward 4Russell R. Del Re, Ward 5Daniel R. Paoly, At Large

Article InformationEditor-in-Chief Linda Dudzinski–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2681

Advertising InformationOffice Manager Colleen DeMarco–phone: 412-833-1600, extension 2284, fax: 412-851-2592

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

Website www.twpusc.org/magazine

[email protected]


ErrataThe USCHS hockey team article in the fall 2011 edition of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY failed to recognize Andrew Schmitt as both a returning senior and a key contributor to last season’s championships. Please accept our apologies! And with that, TODAY also wishes the entire team “good luck!” as it begins the 2011-12 season and defends its state title.

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 17 years of publication.

The 68th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY magazine is made possible through the com-bined resources of the staff and volunteers of the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to the staff and vol-unteers for their enthusiasm and efforts on this continuing project.

17 Years of CommunitYserviCe


Personal Accounts | Personal Loans | Business Accounts | Commercial Lending

The Bank of Choice in the South HillsChoice. We offer accounts for every lifestyle and life

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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

Matthew R. Serakowski Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole

Upper St. Clair School District412-833-1600Fax: 412-833-5535Website: www.uscsd.k12.pa.usEmail: [email protected]

Township of Upper St. Clair412-831-9000Fax: 412-831-9882Website: www.twpusc.orgEmail: [email protected]

Sincerely,

Matthew R. SerakowskiTownship Manager

Sincerely,



Hello and welcome to the winter 2011 issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, our 68th edition. Our Publishers’ Letter for this issue focuses on our community magazine and what it has accomplished since its entry into the marketplace in 1994. Please enjoy learning more about this “little piece of USC” that has and continues to serve our community well.

A not-for-profit organization dedicated to Upper St. Clair and run by residents of USC, TODAY seeks meaningful ways to publicize and support the community. It does so not only by publishing and mailing its award-winning quarterly magazine filled with newsworthy information free to USC residents and businesses, but in other ways, too.

As part of its mission to promote the Township and School District of Upper St. Clair and the residents who live and work here, TODAY has made contributions to further our community’s efforts that have included a financial donation in 2005 to the Volunteer Fire Department, donations to the Upper St. Clair Veterans Park in 2010 and 2011, and a donation this year to USCSD’s first annual Homecoming Gala. The opportunity to contribute in this way is viewed by TODAY’s management as an “investment in our community when we are able to do so,” said editor Linda Dudzinski.

In addition to its financial contributions, did you know that TODAY also sponsors an annual journalism scholarship for a USCHS graduating senior, provides summer internships for those studying journalism in college, and promotes youth writing through its Young Writers Guild? TODAY’s outreach efforts have included sponsoring a community-wide art contest of the 1830 Log House for children and adults in 2004 and participating in many USC Community Day parades over the years. TODAY also accepts and prints articles and photographs submitted by the community at large, offers luncheons to recognize its advertisers and patrons, and has sponsored group tours of renovated or newly constructed facilities in Upper St. Clair to the South Hills real estate community and others to help showcase our Township. While publishing the magazine is the main reason TODAY exists, as you can see there are many other important community-oriented activities that its staff undertakes.

And why does TODAY offer all of these things? The answer is simple: to give back. TODAY is committed to the Upper St. Clair School District and Township and searches for opportunities to play a part in our community’s advancement.

And from the many supportive comments and feedback that we’ve received over the years about our publication, we know that you are as committed to our magazine—the official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair—as it is to you. Thanks for 17 wonderful years of publication and thank you also to our advertisers who continue to support our cause.

Now that you know a little more about TODAY—this “little piece of USC”—we invite you to take a break and cozy up with reading material in hand to learn a little more about your community through the stories that we share.


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Pittsburgh Quarterly_8.75x11.25_Layout 1 10/7/11 8:41 AM Page 1

’Tis the Season, the Urge to PurgeMary Lynne Spazok

The onset of the trash revolution in the United States began in the early 1970s. To litter was illegal.

Americans were fed up with unsightly gar-bage that plagued the environment. Public outcry initiated the famous “Keep America Beautiful” public service announcement (PSA) which fea-tured a Native American. This environmental ad featured a Native Indian (Tony Cody) shedding a single tear after some trash, thrown from a speeding car, rests at his feet. The announcer, William Conrad, memorably declares, “People

start pollution; people can stop it.” “Iron Eyes” actor Tony Cody was chosen as the “crying Indian” because of his compelling belief in and spiritual respect for Mother Earth.

This campaign altered the public’s behavior with an estimated 55% reduction in roadside rubbish. States and commonwealths across the country erected anti-littering signs that read “Every day is Earth Day,” “Mean about Clean,” and “Don’t Trash Our Planet.” One of the most controversial, but effective, signs read “Only Trash Throws Trash!” Automobile travelers finally began retaining refuse in their vehicles for disposal later. In 1995, that crying Indian image was celebrated for its affirmative outcome by the Hollywood American Indian community. Cody (Espera deCort) of Italian descent upheld the beliefs of “Iron Eyes” throughout his life.

Today, trash no longer represents just disposables, but also the opportunity to renew, reuse, recycle, and repurpose. Over the past years, Upper St. Clair’s green habits are growing. Recycling piles are now equal to or greater than the regular trash piles.

With the escalating cost of relocation, to “clear-out” before the moving van arrives is the wise thing to do. The urge to purge most often occurs as a result of:

Residential relocation• Just before or after winter holidays• Friends and relatives threaten to contact the producers of • Hoarding: Buried Alive.Currently in Upper St. Clair, there is no limit as to the amount

of trash that can be placed curbside. However, if you have an

excessive quantity, contact Waste Management in advance or set it out over a few weeks. An alternative to dumpster rental is Waste Management’s newest and easiest cleanup solution for remodeling projects, moving preparation, landscaping projects, and general home or garage cleanup—the Bagster®. Simple to set up and strong enough to hold 3300 pounds, the Bagster® is the perfect solution for projects that don’t require a full-size dumpster. Bags may be purchased at USC’s Public Works Building on the corner of McLaughlin Run and Truxton Roads (opposite the three-hole golf course), Home Depot, Lowe’s, 84 Lumber, Miller’s Ace Hardware, Brookside Lumber, and Portman Farms, to name a few. Current updates are available from Waste Management online at www.thebagster.com or 1-877-789-2247.

Special events, including parties, and the pre- and post-holiday storage, generate moderate to monumental purges. Always begin by consulting the “excluded items” of USC’s Trash and Recycling Information brochure. All bagged, boxed, and bundled trash must be of a manageable weight that one person can safely lift. Waste Management is not responsible for the collection of any item that is not properly prepared. On windy days, disheveled cardboard boxes with loose packing material often take flight, causing an unsightly mess or even street hazard. While flying debris is a traf-fic menace, wet papers and cardboard become bumpy unsightly blobs. Yikes, what a mess! Secure cardboard boxes by flattening and bundling or cutting into a manageable size to partner with newspaper. If you require a wheel barrow or rolling cart because of weight issues, sub-divide into manageable parcels. Weighty grass clippings may go into compostable paper or plastic bags weekly. However, compostable is preferred and a must at the designated fall and spring “date specific” Saturday collections. Remember, if you can’t lift it, they can’t lift it either. And they won’t!

The television series Hoarding: Buried Alive is compelling. Of-ten times, parents, due to illness or death, leave their household belongings for their children or others to distribute or dispose. I asked a friend “Why do some people keep so much stuff?” Her reply: “They lived through a depression.” Sentimentality is another factor. When my mom died, apparel was donated, while Dads’ tools were scooped up by handymen at a neighborhood

Iron Eyes Cody


Recycle to Bike Pittsburgh

Renegade boxes!

—Trash, that Is

sale. I then made a conscientious decision to donate the furnishings. While I could have gone the auction route, a family from a local parish had just suffered the loss of their entire home due to a fire. Helping this family was the right thing to do.

At dawn on a snowy pre-holiday Thursday, I noticed perfectly good metal holiday canisters emptied of their belongings and tossed to the curb. Although recyclable, these containers are sturdy and lend themselves quite nicely for storing everyday objects.

Storage for handy tools, art supplies, and kitchen utensils• Storage or gifting of cookies or treats• Bow and ribbon storage• Decorative magazine/catalog storage• Fire starter supplies such as pine cones and kindling• Don’t forget Fido or Meow—ideal for their food and snacks• Travel safety container:•

Wrap in reflective tape or coat in reflective paint. Keep in �the storage area of your car.Display container outside of your car in the event of an acci- �dent or emergency to alert other drivers of your presence.Include survival kit items, including a flashlight, bottled �water, human and pet snacks, and a pair of waterproof, heavy duty work gloves.

Moving forward to 2012, continue to exercise the mindset of renew, reuse, recycle, and re-purpose. Leslie and Terry Soukup affirm, “When we were youngsters, recycling didn’t exist. It now plays an important role in how we shop and in our daily lifestyle.” Leslie has been involved with the recycle process for 30 years as an employee of ALCOA. Aluminum is the most valuable material in the recycling bin. By weight, it is less than two percent of the United States’ recycled stream, but generates 40% of the revenue to sustain all recycling programs. An energetic consumer can earn cash, all the while lessening landfill clutter.

Did you know that an aluminum can is consumed, recovered, and recycled back onto a store shelf in less than 60 days? It takes 95% less energy to manufacture from recycled aluminum, rather

than from raw materials. Recovering aluminum reduces our carbon footprint. To salvage and recycle 75% of aluminum cans—600,000 metric tons of aluminum—1286 megawatts of generated electricity is banked. Thus, ALCOA is saving 11.8 million metric

tons of carbon dioxide from being generated and released into the atmosphere by two coal fired power plants.

On Wednesday evenings, Terry dollies his original USC milk crate style containers as well as the up-

dated cylinders curbside no earlier than 6 p.m. for Thursday pickup. The Soukups also use compostable bags for regular trash collection. He states, “In the past, we only used compostable bags during the yard debris collection weeks. However, if this material goes to a landfill, we believe it is best to also use compostable bags for regular trash.” Further, be-ing considerate neighbors, they are diligent about removing emptied containers from curbside as soon as possible.

Keep America Beautiful, Inc., our nation’s largest volunteer-based community action and education

campaign, endorses a practical approach that unites citizens, business, and government together. Their goal

is “to engage individuals to take greater responsibility for improving their community environments.” Macy’s sturdy shopping bag is my #1 curbside choice when

it comes to periodicals for pickup. Check out their good news message on the bag bottom: “We’ve turned over a new leaf. Enjoy our good-natured, earth-wise bag made from 60% post-consumer recycled materials.” Now that’s a good neighbor!

So, if you have the urge to purge, remember, trash no longer represents just disposables, but also the opportunity to renew, reuse, recycle, and repurpose. Such viable alternatives advance our core issues of preventing litter, reducing waste, and continu-ing green initiatives in Upper St. Clair. In 2012, resolve to make everyday Earth Day. n

Side note: Are you a senior citizen or handicapped resident who needs help getting an unusually heavy item to the curb? Contact USC Public Works Department employee Cathie Scudiero at 412-831-9000, ext. 217.


Festive, reusable canisters

Leslie and Terry Soukup

Cathie Scudiero


FAMILY MOVIE

NIGHTOn August 25, 2011, approximately 600 residents enjoyed the recent movie,

“RIO” on the C&RC

Multi-Purpose Field.

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, in partnership with USC Township, sponsored

To see who all of these people are, and to see more Family

Movie Night attendees, go the the CFUSC website at

www.cfusc.org.

The Community Foundation began a partnership with our community on January 5, 1993, intent on fulfilling the Mission of “creating a sense of community through enhancing the quality of life for all the people of Upper St. Clair.” The Community Foundation has remained true to that promise for the past 18 years! Your support, now, is vital to securing the future of that promise.

The Foundation has returned significant value to Upper St. Clair by entering into partnerships with community groups and others, hosting events, and awarding grants; a list of CF investments in the community can be viewed by visiting www.cfusc.org. These 18 years of good works are not without effort, nor are they without cost. The achievements of the Foundation are a direct result of the generosity of this community – you and your neighbors.

The CF is asking that every household in Upper St. Clair give $1 for every year the Foundation has been in existence. The resulting $125,000 would provide the support needed to continue the promise made 18 years ago. Please, help the Community Foundation reach this goal.

Send your tax deductible contribution to the CF address below or donate using a credit card by visiting www.cfusc.org and clicking on Annual Solicitation. Your contribution – if just $18 – will make a difference right here at home. Let’s continue

THANK YOU FOR ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY BY GENEROUSLY SUPPORTING THE ACTIVITIES

OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF UPPER ST. CLAIR

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF UPPER ST. CLAIR

2585 Washington Road, Suite 131A, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 ~ (412) 831-1107 ~ FAX (412) 220-7780 ~ www.cfusc.org


When students return to school each fall, they are always very eager to share their summer adventures with their classmates and teachers.

This year, three Baker School staff members had a very ex-citing adventure of their own to share with their students. This past August, Pam Dillie (third grade teacher), Christine Hestwood (music teacher), and Carolyn Seymour (school aide) went skydiving together at the Grove City Skydiving Airport. Baker students watched and enjoyed the video of their very adventurous teachers.

Thanks for taking along UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY on this adventure! And for those of you reading this article, look up every now and again, as you might see our magazine falling from the sky!

U p p e r S t . Clair High School j u n i o r s J u l i e S c h u l d t , Te d Hages, and Doug Cannon traveled to Europe with the People to People A m b a s s a d o r Programs in July and took TODAY with them on their journey. The three-week trip, “Mediterranean Traditions,” took 40 high school students from the Pittsburgh area to various cities in Spain, France, and Italy. Julie traveled to China last year and Ted traveled to Australia in 2009 with this same organization.

Julie, Ted, and Doug all received the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program certificate of completion this past May.

Traveling with TODAYTraveling with TODAY

How do I submit information for Traveling with TODAY? See submission information at the bottom right corner of page 81.

Left to right are Christine Hestwood, Carolyn Seymour, and Pam Dillie

In front of the Vatican, left to right, are Doug Cannon, Julie Schuldt, and Ted Hages

Highley

Dedicated

Knowledgeable

Accessible

Dependable

$120 Million Sales in 21 Years

Susan HighleyABR, CRS, SRES

412 833-3600Cell-412 889-1214

www.shighley.howardhanna.com

Sketch.................Design...................Render....................Wax.....................Casting......Finished Product

Behind the Wall

Ready for that one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry—the one that is yours, and yours alone; the one that really makes a statement?

Then look no further than JAB Jewelry Designs, located on Route 19 in Peters Township. With its eye catching black aw-nings and distinctive JAB monogram logo, the exterior reflects the elegance within. Sleek cases hold an array of jewelry, from shining silver and gleaming gold to shimmering gemstones and diamonds.

But it’s what’s behind the wall that sets JAB apart from other local jewelers. Owner and designer Joe Bonasso says that there is not a better equipped shop in the Pittsburgh area; CAD/CAM, la-sers, 3D printers and other state-of-the-art equipment are coupled with old world skill and talent.

“We’re a store,” said Joe, “but we’re also a manufacturing facil-ity. We make the product from the ground up.”

Joe and his staff excel at creating jewelry that is distinctively yours. From bridal and fashion rings to necklaces and earrings, JAB Jewelry offers exceptional pieces in all price ranges.

“We make jewelry people notice,” says Joe.And many people have noticed Joe Bonasso’s work. Joe and

his designer, Art Rivero, have won numerous awards. Joe’s honors include several first place Keystone Awards from the Pennsylvania Jeweler Association (2002, 2005, 2006, 2007), finishing first in the Jewelers of America Affiliated Design Competition (2003, 2006), the Pennsylvania Jewelers “Craftsman of the Year” (2003), and his induction into the USC Arts Hall of Fame in 2003. Art has won first (2004) and second (2005, 2007) place Keystone Awards from the Pennsylvania Jeweler Association.

A member of USC High School’s class of 1984, Joe fondly recalls taking Mr. Pavlov’s crafts class, a jewelry making class, for three of his four years there. This course sparked Joe’s interest in jewelry making, and after graduation he did an apprentice-ship, learning the trade at the Clark Building in Pittsburgh. His interest in jewelry overflowed into diamonds and gems, and in 2003, he received his diploma as a graduate gemologist from Gemological Institute of America, the most respected title for a jewelry professional.

Joe worked at the Clark Building for several years before start-ing his own business in the same building in 1989. Joe moved the business to McMurray about ten years ago, and JAB Jewelry Designs has been in its current McMurray location for about two years.

It’s evident that Joe chose the right career. “It’s great to work with your hands,” he said. “I get to work with all these great tools

and lots of cool toys. I think people would be surprised by the equipment and technology used behind the scenes.”

In addition to working with his hands, Joe also likes the feedback he gets from his customers, stating, “You can really tell when people love the work!”

A big part of JAB Jewelry’s business is diamond and bridal piec-es.What sets this company apart is the experience and expertise. When it comes to diamond and engagement ring purchases, their personal service matches the customer with the ideal diamond. Their no pressure approach helps customers sort through their confusion and become more educated, giving them the confidence to make an informed purchase. Then, after the selection of the diamond or other gemstone, comes the fun part, the area where JAB excels: matching it with the perfect mounting.

Joe says, “A bride typically spends a lot of time choosing a dress that expresses her individuality. How much more should the ring

that symbolizes their love and commitment to each other be exclusive to her? We will take a style or concept and make it special, a perfect fit for her uniqueness or as we say,

‘Simply Original’. Since we do all the design and manufacturing in-house, it is more affordable than most people think when they hear the words ‘custom design’.”

Another area where JAB Jewelry Designs makes a statement is recycling old jewelry into something new and exciting. Joe explained that most people have an old piece or two of jewelry that holds sentimental value, but never wear it, often because it isn’t their style.

“We love to take old jewelry and redesign it into a piece that our customers will wear and cherish,” said Joe, “especially if it’s jewelry that held meaning for them. Redesigning and refashioning jewelry has been a good niche for us.”

Joe and his staff work with each customer to determine their style and what they want their piece to say. This is done by show-ing them pictures, other pieces of jewelry, and wax models. “We always want to incorporate each person’s ideas into the design, to make a piece that is unique to them,” says Joe. “We want their personality to show in their design, whether it’s modern or more traditional.”

After getting a sense of what the customer wants, the designer does a counter sketch. Once the customer approves the concept, the work is priced out and upon approval, a photo-realistic com-puter rendering or hand carved wax is generated for final approval. “Modern technology gives us the ability to show exactly what a piece will look like before the manufacturing, even showing alternate design elements if needed. From concept to design to manufacturing, it’s all done right here on-site,” said Joe.

“We make jewelry people notice,” says Joe.


JAB Jewelry Designs is located at 3220 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, or call them at 724-941-8300. You can also find them online at jabjewelry.com or follow them on Facebook (JAB Jewelry Designs).

“We’ve done a lot of varied pieces over the years,” said Joe, “including a commission for the ordination ring for Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt, the Bishop of Greensburg.” A number of their pieces have won awards, but Joe said it’s hard for him to pick a favorite.

In addition to their custom design work, JAB Jewelry Designs also carries an array of fine jewelry from diamond intensive pieces and bridal mountings to what Joe calls “fun and fashionable” pieces in silver. Mostly handmade and sticking with the ‘Simply Original’ theme, Joe carries pieces that the customer can’t find locally.

While the business bears Joe’s initials, a team of professionals with almost two centuries of expertise is behind the beautiful work at JAB Jewelry Designs:

“I have the best staff,” said Joe. “They are all very talented and hard working.”

Joe has a great team behind him at home as well. He and his wife, Karen, have four children: Joey, 13; Lily, 11; Benjamin, 9; and Luke, 7. The family has lived in Upper St. Clair for 12 years, choosing to make their home here because of the community and great school district.

Jeweler StaffJoseph Bonasso–Goldsmith/Jeweler/Designer–27 years experi-•ence, award-winning designer, graduate Gemologist Gemological Institute of America.Art Rivero–Master Setter/Jeweler/Designer–34 years as gold-•smith/jeweler, award-winning designer, taught jewelry course at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.Angelo Zucca–Goldsmith/Jeweler—12 years, BFA (Bachelor •Fine Arts) Jewelry & Metalsmithing, Indiana University of Pennsylvania.Tobin Hrutkay–Shop Foreman–27 years as a jeweler.•Laura Nalesnik–Apprentice Goldsmith/Jeweler–two years, BFA •Jewelry & Metalsmithing, Rhode Island School of Design.Stephanie Engle–Apprentice Jeweler–six months, BFA Illustration, •University of the Arts.Todd O’Farrell–Goldsmith /Jeweler–21 years experience, third •generation jeweler.

In addition to Karen being involved in the business, Joe said that Joey and Lily have already started working for him, doing a good job organizing various items behind the scenes. Joe said his kids, especially Lily and Luke, like “playing with wax” and they have already made a few pieces.

While you would think running a successful business and raising four children would leave no free time, Joe is an assistant coach for a USC in-line hockey team and also plays guitar in a contemporary Christian band.

Just as there is real substance behind the showroom at JAB Jewelry Designs, for Joe, the driving force in his life is his faith. Joe said the attention to customer service and the high quality of jewelry at JAB is the “why.” “I think what people believe is how they will live.”

Moving forward, Joe plans for JAB Jewelry Designs to continue to use the investment in technology and people to provide the highest quality product and service possible. And with his faith, family, and friends, Joe plans to continue to use his gifts and abilities in whatever capacity God has planned. n

Sales and Office StaffMichael Kelley–Sales Manager–18 years in fine jewelry •sales, DCA Diamond and Gemstone Certified, BA in Business Administration, MBA in Personnel Management and Human Resources, University of Pittsburgh.Christine Powders-Scott–Office Administrator–11 years •in jewelry sales; Joan Michlan Gallery, Movado Watch Company, Saks 5th Avenue, Louis Anthony Jewelers. BFA Edinboro University, undergrad BA University of Pittsburgh.Sandy Walshak–Sales Associate–36 years working for •Bailey Banks & Biddle in many capacities. DCA Certified in Diamonds.Mandy Vukich–Sales Associate–three years in fine jew-•elry sales, BFA Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design, Edinboro University of PA.

JAB Jewelry Designs ServicesDiamonds and GemstonesExpert Repair ServicesLaser WeldingCustom DesignsPlatinum WorkRestringing

GoldsmithStone ReplacementAntique RestorationEngravingWatch RepairAppraisals & Gem Identification

Sales staff, left to right, front row: Mandy Vukich, Sandy Walshak; back row: Christine Powders, Michael Kelley, Karen Bonasso

Jeweler staff, left to right, front row: Stephanie Engle, Laura Nalesnik; back row: Angelo Zucca, Art Rivero, Tobin Hrutkay, Joseph Bonasso, Todd O’Farrell


Intern Carolyn Jones

Gilfillan descendant Jean Brown


Gilfillan’s Gift to YouMary Lynne Spazok

Because of the generosity of Margaret Gilfillan, residents of Upper St. Clair, and distant friends, the USC Historical Society has conserved an impressive and priceless collection of papers, books, photographs, maps, artifacts, antiques, and other historical materials. Weekly, Historical Society president Jean Brown receives many requests for information about USC, espe-cially genealogy. Each request requires extensive manual research of paper files and photographs.

Through the use of information technology and the computer, Gilfillan Homestead and Upper St. Clair history will be forever preserved in digital format and accessible regardless of where you live. Anthology management undertakes the organization and storage of vast amounts of data specific to a detailed digital collection or database. Computer science—it’s not just about hardware and software anymore; it’s also about oceans, stars, networks of friends, and history.

Sound complex? It is! Fortunately, members of the Historical Society found Carolyn Jones. She is as excited about history as every Pittsburgher is about the Steelers! Saving yesterday for tomorrow, Carolyn is pursuing a career in an academic library environment, which requires her to interact with researchers and students. Carolyn states, “Within my specialization, I ex-plore creative solutions to common challenges at many libraries (public and private) to encourage exploitation of both online and print holdings.” Carolyn is pursuing a master’s degree in Library Science with a specialization in preservation and special collection management as a student at The University of Pittsburgh through the Pitt Partners Program (PPP).

This program, sponsored by the faculty of the Library and Information Science Program, provides Master of Library and In-formation Science (MLIS) students the opportunity to pursue their education while gaining related work experience in Pittsburgh-area libraries, archives, cultural, and other types of institutions. The MLIS program partners with various institutions to benefit students by providing work experience through partial tuition scholar-ships. MLIS benefits from the students’ expertise all the while attracting quality students who covet a work/study op-portunity.

The PPP sup-p o r t s f u l l - t i m e MLIS students with partial tuition schol-arships for three terms based on the number of hours a student works per week while attend-ing classes on campus. In addition to the scholarship, the student may receive an hourly wage/stipend from the partner institution. A student working ten hours per week receives a three-credit tuition scholarship each term, while 20 hours of employment per week earns a six-credit tuition scholarship. An associated hourly wage/stipend is variable and determined and paid by the partner institution—USC Historical Society, for example.

Along with typical research, Carolyn is proficient in creating archival storage containers such as Mylar encapsulations. En-capsulation protects documents from rough treatment and holds fragile items together. Reversible, it does not harm documents with use of heat or adhesives. Book repair includes spines, loose hinges, cover re-attachment, “tipping in” (a method of incor-porating loose pages, a detached leaf, replacement page, errata sheet, or other insertion into a bound volume) pages and more. In addition to manipulating physical documents, her experience extends into digital database Metadata. Humans (search engine social browsers) enter a topic and receive a reply, thus exploiting Metadata.

From Wikipedia 2011: Metadata (Meta content) is traditionally found in the card catalogs of libraries. As information becomes increasingly digital, metadata is used to describe digital data using metadata standards specific to a particular discipline. By describing the contents and context of data files, the quality of the original data/files is greatly increased. For example, a web-page may include metadata specifying what language it is written in, what tools were used to create it, and where to go for more information on the subject, allowing browsers to improve the user’s experience.

Gilfillan will also link into The Historic Pittsburgh Image Collections. This website provides access to over 23,000 visual images of the Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania region selected from over 50 photographic collections held by places, includ-ing the Archives Service Center at The University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Museum of Art, Chatham University, and Heinz History Center, just to name a few. This wide range of photographs offers a comprehensive and compelling look at how Pittsburghers lived and worked in the 19th and 20th centuries. These images visually document the cultural, educational, and social variations of the greater Pittsburgh region, as well as its vast infrastructure, regional landscapes, and diverse transportation modes. Paramount is Pittsburgh’s vast immigrant workforce, steel industry, education community, and ethnic diversification.

The coming year promises to be remarkable for the Upper St. Clair Historical Society with the formal intro-

duction of the Gilfillan Homestead user-friendly website as well as its graphic gi f t to the Historic Pittsburgh Image Col lec t ions . Thanks to the wisdom of Margaret Gilfillan, pas-sion of intern Carolyn Jones, faithful dedication of Jean Brown, and loyal society members, a few computer key strokes and a nanosecond will ins tant ly showcase Gilfillan Farm, a won-derful mainstay of Upper St. Clair. n


I ’ m s u r p r i s e d when people comment that they’ve read my lat-est column. I try to be a reliable writer, but I don’t count on catching the eye

of busy readers. I am humbled when someone takes the time to read and maybe comment on something I wrote.

A response from my last column got me thinking and, I must admit, wiping away a few tears.

The column was about how quickly we transition from parents with children selling lemonade to parents shuttling our children off to college or into their first apartment. I recounted how I moved onto my street with two children and how, before I could notice that the leaves had changed color, our 11-year-old babysitter and neighbor was sud-denly a young adult and going off to college. The following year, her family left the street and moved to another city.

Early this fall, I received the following email from my neighbor:

I’m sure you can tell by the subject line of my email that I’ve read your most recent USC TODAY article. I have to admit that I cried. Concerned about what was making me sad, my husband kept asking me what was wrong and all I could do was hand him the magazine to read for himself.

How I came to be in possession of the magazine merits mention as well. My dad, in his fatherly desire to keep me connected to USC, has been sending newspaper clippings and other items of interest to keep us up-to-date. He thought I would enjoy the USC TODAY articles about the Veterans Monument and The Perks of Being a Wallflower, not realizing that your column was about our family moving away.

I was so touched by your article. For one, to think that the “old neighbors” I was missing so dearly missed me back! Second, because I enjoyed your story of the lemonade stand.

I’ll offer a little glimpse of the opposite per-spective. I was once that young mom, too. And my goodness yes, the years do fly. I remember the neighbors’ children going off to college, but that was certainly eons away for me. I watched babysitters grow up and go off to college and then I would find the next babysitter on the street until they too would go off to college. Then my kids became the sitters.

To my dismay, my children grew up and went off to college, too. This, my friend, is one of the hardest things for a mother to do. It is such a

conflicting moment. You have encouraged them to dream, and watch proudly as they succeed, and then you are hit with the overwhelming sadness that they are leaving and nothing will ever be the same.

And then, an even bigger challenge presents itself—the concept of moving to a new town. Picking up roots, and replanting in an unknown place. I approached the challenge with all the bravado of a fearless matador.

Leaving our street was very hard. The first few nights in our new home I would close my eyes at bedtime and in my mind walk room to room as if I were in our old house, as if nothing had changed.

As we got settled into our new home, I would watch all the young kids on the street and think, “Oh my gosh, we are going to be so much older than all the other parents.”

The young mother across the street came to welcome us with a cake and her three beauti-ful daughters, the youngest still a baby on her hip. Next door to them were two cute little towheaded boys who can often be seen shooting baskets and riding their bikes.

And then we met our next-door neighbor, Karen. She laughed when I said I thought it was all young kids on the street and I would be the “old mom.” Turns out that there are many teenagers and college kids on the street, they just aren’t out in all their “cuteness” playing in the street. In fact, we have a very fun group of neighbors, just like we did on our old street.

And so we approach things based on our needs at the current time. I just returned “home” to our new city this past weekend from a week abroad with my daughter. We had an absolutely wonderful week together.

One particularly poignant moment came when we were touring Glamis Castle (the set-ting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth and reportedly one of the most haunted castles in Scotland!). The docent went around the room and asked where everyone was from. My daughter and I had become separated at this point and were standing in different parts of the room. When my daughter was asked where she was from, she said “Pittsburgh” and when the docent got to me, as unnatural as it was, I laid claim to my new city. The docent said, “Oh I thought you and Pittsburgh were together. We grinned and said, “We are!” And so there I had it—my daughter will always be “from Pittsburgh” and I will

learn to be from my new part of the country.And so my story ends just as ironically as

it began.This summer, a group of young kids around

the street corner were having a big lemonade stand. I was struck by the fact that it was a fundraiser for a team I was not familiar with, by a bunch of kids I have not gotten to know yet. I resolved I would get to know these kids and their teams, and I would become friends with their parents, my new neighbors.

I wave to my new neighbors when walk-ing the dog, and I try very hard to remember all of their names. We look for familiar faces at the high school football games. It will take a while, but we’ll get there, and if we have to move again, I am sure of one thing. There will be more lemonade stands!

Aside from the bittersweet feeling of missing a friend, from this email I came away with three ideas.

One. No matter how old our children are, everyone has a place on the street and a role to play in the success of the street lemonade stand.

Two. We have something to learn from those who move away. Courage and opti-mism, apparently, are essential.

Three. A child raised mostly in Pittsburgh is always from Pittsburgh. The community follows our young adults around like a sticky paper napkin on a hot summer day. n

Erin Gibson Allen

From HereFrom Here

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 [email protected]. Let me know if, like me, you’re from here.

Everyone Has a Place on the Street

For many, the Reid family will always be “From Here.”

Sean Casey was all smiles when the All-Star Game was played in Pittsburgh in 2000.

Two Greats—Armon Gilliam and Sean CaseyStory and photos by Jim O’Brien

I had never considered Armon Gilliam and Sean Casey in the same sentence or the same breath. They were two of Pittsburgh’s highest-paid professional athletes in history and they played at neighboring high schools in Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair, respectively, and I followed their careers from their teen years until their retirement years.

It wasn’t until a chance meeting with Sean Casey’s parents, Jim and Joan, on a Sunday morning in early May at breakfast at the Eat’n Park Restaurant at South Hills Village that I learned of the link they shared. The Upper St. Clair Township Library also figures in this story.

“They were both unheralded as high school athletes and no one was after them to offer them scholarships,” said Jim Casey. “They both surprised everyone by their successes in sports.”

“I thought Sean had a partial scholarship at Richmond,” I told his parents.

“Yes, for $1000 a year,” Joan Casey came back. And Richmond is a pricey school. Tuition, room, and board came to about $20,000 a year at the time. Sean Casey picked up a full scholarship for his junior and senior years.

“But he was rich even then,” I said. “He has always had that great personality. And he and Armon were both nice guys,” I added. “They were two of my favorite ballplayers. They were always eager to talk with me whenever we met. You and Armon’s parents both did a great job raising your boys.”

Armon Gilliam, who changed the spelling of his name to Armen when he was playing in the NBA, played a little football and wrestled when he was in middle school in Bethel Park. He did not make the basketball team until his junior year in high school.

He was not offered a single scholarship upon graduation. So he went to junior college in Independence, Kansas, and from there to the University of Las Vegas, where he developed into an All-American performer for Jerry Tarkanian’s nationally-ranked Rebels. He was the second player picked in the 1987 draft by the Phoenix Suns right after the San Antonio Spurs selected David Robinson of the U.S. Naval Academy.

Gilliam, a 6-9, 235-pound power forward, played 13 seasons in the NBA and averaged 13.7 points and 6.9 rebounds in his career. He was always respected for his work ethic and the way he carried himself. He was popular in every clubhouse.

He was such a big man, yet I was always amazed by how he could walk into a restaurant or a library in his hometown and nobody would notice him. He could stroll the aisle at Giant Eagle in Bethel Park and go unrecognized. He was one of the least known big-time athletes in town.

In early May, he collapsed after playing in a pickup basketball game at LA Fitness near Bridgeville and was pronounced dead that evening at St. Clair Hospital in Mt. Lebanon. He was only 47 years old.

I remember seeing Armon play in pickup games through the years, most recently against the Pittsburgh Steelers in a fundraiser at Bethel Park High School. I remember when his father, James T. Gilliam, worked as a front counter clerk at the post office just across the street from the hospital where his son was taken.

I had written about his father when I was 14 and the sports editor of The Hazelwood Envoy. James T. Gilliam won the heavy-weight title of the Pittsburgh and New York Golden Gloves Tournaments back in the mid-50s. He fought for the Glen-Hazel Boys Club during a span when they won the Golden Gloves team title 11 of 12 years. They also had a champion bantamweight called Jimmy Gilliam. Eugene Tippett of Homestead was a star boxer on that team.

The Rev. James T. Gilliam, now 80, is the pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church in Library and has long retired from the post of-fice. Armon provided funding for many projects at his father’s church through the years. Armon got his size and strength from his father, and his determination and spirit from his mother, Alma. They are great people.

“I didn’t know that,” said Jim Casey when I told him about Armon’s father. “I’ve read where Andrew McCutchen of the Pirates is the son of a minister in Florida. I think kids whose dads are ministers have their heads screwed on straight.”

Some do, and some don’t. Joe Gilliam, the gifted quarterback of the Steelers in the early 70s, would be an example of a minis-ter’s son who walked on the wrong side of the street, ruining his career with illegal drug use. Surely, Armon Gilliam walked the talk offered by his dad in his Sunday sermons. Armon Gilliam was no relation to Joe Gilliam.

I got to know Armon over the past dozen years. I had interviewed him for a book called Hometown Heroes in the same seating area at that Eat’n

Park Restaurant in South Hills Village back in 1998. I had met with him in that restaurant and at the Upper St. Clair Library over the last five years to critique his writing. He had expressed a desire to do some writing and wanted my help. He was always easy company.

Armon Gilliam was ambitious, but in subtle ways. He moved to the beat of his own drummer, and it was a relaxed beat. He went back to school and got his business degree, something too few professional athletes ever do. He coached for a few seasons at the McKeesport campus of Penn State University. He conducted clinics at Ringgold High School. He was a bit of a Renaissance man. He played the bass guitar and the saxophone, and sang at


Armon Gilliam was ambitious, but in subtle ways.

his father’s church. He spoke with a soft voice and there was a smile in his bright eyes.

My daughter, Sarah, is the same age as Sean Casey—37. They were classmates at Upper St. Clair High School. Sarah attended the University of Virginia when Sean was an hour’s drive away at the University of Richmond. Every time I see Sean Casey, he is quick to ask, “How’s Sarah?”

“Sean always liked Sarah,” said Jim Casey on two occasions during our breakfast meeting. We met completely by chance. We were seated at a table near the rear of the Eat’n Park Restaurant this past Sunday morning after we’d come from church, and the Caseys were seated next to us. They had their six-year-old granddaughter, Carli, with them. Carli is one of four children of Mandi and Sean Casey.

I remarked that there is a photo of Carli’s dad, when he was eight years old and wearing a baseball uniform, that is in my book, Glory Years, a sequel to Hometown Heroes, in which they strongly resemble one another. “She looks just like him,” agreed Joan Casey.

They said Sean had caught an airplane from Pittsburgh that day to fly to Phoenix for the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, returning Thursday to Pittsburgh, where he makes his home. The senior Caseys are happy to live so close to their son and grandchildren.

Sean works for the Major League Baseball Network as a studio analyst. He also does a show called “The Mayor’s Office.”

When Sean was playing for the Cincinnati Reds, he was the most popular player on the team and came by the nickname “The Mayor.” He was voted “the most popular player in baseball” in a poll of players by Sports Illustrated.

I mentioned to the Caseys that Branch Rickey, the GM of the Brooklyn Dodgers and Pittsburgh Pirates in the 50s, once remarked that Donora’s Stan Musial was “the most liked player in baseball.”

“And they’re both from this area,” Jim Casey said of Sean Casey and Stan Musial.

When Armon Gilliam was an All-American at UNLV he came by the nickname of “The Hammer” because of his physical play under the boards. His coach, Jerry “Tark the Shark” Tarkanian, was shocked to hear the news of Armon’s premature death. “He was such a great person,” said Tarkanian. “Everybody loved him and he loved everybody. He was a people person and such a car-ing guy. He would give you the shirt off his back.”

Curiously, early medical reports indicate Gilliam died with an extremely enlarged heart.

Jim Casey asked me if I had seen Gene Collier’s story in the Post-Gazette that morning about the All-Star Game. I had not, but I ventured that it said the All-Star Game was a waste of time. When I got home I checked out the column and, sure enough, Collier confessed that he hated the Baseball All-Star Game when he was seven years old, and he still hates it at 57. I was not surprised.

Collier is an outstanding writer, a clever wordsmith with a droll sense of humor, but I have never understood why he is a sportswriter. Collier doesn’t seem to care much for sports.

Several of the New York Yankees, including Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Mariano Rivera, called in sick for this year’s All-Star Game, saying they wanted to heal their hurts for the second half of the season. Sean Casey played in three All-Star Games and thought he was the luckiest man on earth to be so honored.

I remember seeing Sean Casey carrying a portable TV camera with him in the dugout, clubhouse, and on the field when he participated in the 1999 All-Star Game at Fenway Park in Boston. “He was so excited to see Ted Williams,” recalled his father.

I checked out the chapter I wrote on Sean Casey to see what he had said about that All-Star Game experience. I prefer his take on the game to what Gene Collier wrote. When I was work-ing for big city dailies, I always loved going to All-Star Games because, simply enough, the game’s greatest players, past and present, would be there. Everybody who was anybody in the sport was there. I wanted to be in their company; I wanted to interview them and write stories about them. You could fill up a notebook with stories.

“I felt like I had just won a contest,” Sean Casey commented about playing in the 1999 All-Star Game. “It’s a time I’ll never forget. Being ten feet away from Mark McGwire, when he was

Continued on page 20


Armon Gilliam stands outside Eat’n Park Restaurant at South Hills Village

Alma and James T. Gilliam at their home on Elm Street in Bethel Park


smashing the ball out of the park in the home run derby. It was the end of the century, and it was the greatest experience I’d ever had in my life.”

“My dad is big on history, so I learned a lot about baseball at an early age. I always thought to appreciate the game today you had to know about the game before. I know there were a lot of guys who got this going, who paid their dues and set the standards for the rest of us to live and play by. I always thought I had an obligation to learn the history of the game,” continued Sean.

“So I knew about Stan Musial and Warren Spahn and Pete Rose, and it was special to see them close up. I saw Rollie Fingers, Nolan Ryan, and Johnny Bench. All those legends. I got chills. When Ted Williams came out in the golf cart, I got the ultimate chill. The history of the sport was right there on the field. It was a most amazing experience.”

I wish Gene Collier could feel that way.There weren’t many observers who saw Sean Casey as a future

major league baseball player when he was in his teens.“I know I had a special gift,” Sean Casey confided to me. “I

thank God for that every day. I read a statistic that only six to seven percent of professional baseball players ever make it to the big leagues, and only four percent make a career of it. I realized my goal of making it a career. I’m still involved in major league baseball.”

Sean is giving back to his community, as well. This year he provided the seed money and the leadership to build a Miracle

League Field in Upper St. Clair to enable mentally and physically challenged youngsters to play baseball.

He [Sean] said his parents were always positive. They were al-ways behind him. His dad didn’t feel so hot this particular Sunday morning. He told us he had been in St. Clair Hospital for three days during the week with a bout with pneumonia. He was there, though he didn’t know it, when they brought Armon Gilliam to the emergency room.

Jim Casey had collapsed and passed out on the kitchen floor of their home. He pointed to a small divot in his forehead where he had struck the floor. “That’s what he has to show for it,” said Joan Casey.

“I still feel a little tired,” said Jim Casey.The previous time I had seen Jim Casey he was checking out

the newspapers and magazines at the Upper St. Clair Library. “I’m retired now and I have time to do this,” he told me that day. “I didn’t realize they had so much at this library. It’s really great.” He was as excited as his son at an All-Star Game.

That’s also the last place where I saw and spoke to Armon Gilliam. “I’m still working at my writing,” he told me that day, just a few months ago. “I’ve gotten some of my writing published. I’d like to do more.” n

Pittsburgh sports author Jim O’Brien has written 20 books in his “Pittsburgh Proud” series that are available at area bookstores. His website is www.jimobriensportsauthor.com.

Continued from page 19

Sean is giving back to his community, as well. This year he provided the seed money and the leadership to build a

Miracle League Field in Upper St. Clair to enable mentally and physically challenged youngsters to play baseball.


Do You Believe?Bah! Humbug! I say, this Christmas Eve

For I am that one boy who does not believe.I’m eleven years old, I know what it’s about

I’ve come of age, I can figure things out.

Sure, I’ve sent my letter to good ole Saint NickI won’t tell my brother, that’s too mean a trick!I’ll allow him sweet dreams tonight in his headWhile I toss and turn in my own big boy’s bed.

How foolish it is to imagine such a sightAs a Santa with reindeer and sleigh in the night,

Alighting rooftops, all covered with snowThen with a big sack, down the chimney he’ll go.

Ha! Ha! I do laugh, Do they think I’m a fool?

I sure don’t believe, let the little ones drool.Suddenly, from up above, there was such a clamor

I had goose bumps galore, and my heart it did hammer.

It can’t be, it can’t be, it must all be a dreamHave I been the dumb one? I asked with a scream.

I jumped out of bed, I stood straight and tallThen I ran through the doorway and out in the hall.

I descended the staircase at such a quick paceThen I glued both my eyes on that old fireplace.

Through the ashes and soot, someone came into sightA jolly round man with a beard fluffy white.

This just cannot be. He is not really here.I stood there and watched with a heart full of fear.

He began placing some packages under the treeFor my parents, my brother, but none were for me.

He filled only three stockings; mine he left bare.How can he do this, does he think I don’t care?Then I recalled who it was that did not believe

In the magic that happens on each Christmas Eve.

I fell down on my knees and started to pray,Santa Claus, Santa Claus please don’t go away.

I believe, I believe in each thing that is true.Give me one more chance, I will always love you!

He had finished his task and was ready to go.Then he stopped in his tracks, why I don’t know.

He left three more boxes, filled my sock to the brim,It was then that I knew how I trusted in him.

He gave a nod of his head, as if he did agreeThen he started his climb, back up the chimney.I rushed off to the window and I heard him say

Merry Christmas Johnny, a merry Christmas today!

—Jay Walsh, retired Eisenhower Elementary custodian

Holiday Doors of SpringfieldThe development of Springfield Commons, located across from South Hills Village and just off Route 19, is edged on one side by

the natural landscape of the Gilfillan Homestead. It is especially convenient to education and leisure amenities in Upper St. Clair. A development that began in the 70s, each home boasts individuality with a myriad of traditional and modern architecture.

Springfield residents embrace their neighborhood and decorate their doors in celebration of the winter season.


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Surprise Delivery Tremendous SavingsPianoDisc & QRS Player Systems Installed on Site

412-344-5397 660 Washington Rd. Mt. Lebanon

Yamaha

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Clavinova

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Story & Clark

Give Your Family the Gift of MusicThis Holiday Season

Pittsburgh’s Exclusive YAMAHA Dealer

May not be combined with any otheroffer, discount or fundraiser. Cannot be

used to purchase gift cards and excludesprior purchases. Valid at Mt. Lebanon

store only. Limit one coupon percustomer per visit. Expires 12/15/11


We’re raising the steaks.

www.bisteccapittsburgh.com Bisteccapittsburgh

Please call 724.503.1510to make a reservation.

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EdibleArrangements .com©2010 Edible Arrangements, LLC. Containers may vary. Delivery not available in all areas.

Available in a variety of sizes. Franchises available call 1-888-727-4258 or visit eafranchise.com

412-563-2425250 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. Suite E-40

Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-489-62346506 Steubenville PikePittsburgh, PA 15205

a Time for Givinga Time for Giving

24 Donati Road • 412-833-7000

Dinner ServedMonday–Saturday 5 p.m.–10 p.m.

Reservations Suggested

Warm Holiday Wishes from Your

Neighborhood Cafe

See our full menu atwww.cafegeorgio.com


See ad for Cindy Brophy, State Farm® agent, on page 46.

Luminaria—A Local TraditionIn 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 8-9 and deliver them to residents on December 10.

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 FormName: ______________________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________________

Zip: ____________ Phone: ____________________________________________

# of kits: __________ x $10/kit = Total enclosed: $ __________________________

Make check payable to: USC Band Parents AssociationMail to: USC Band Parents Association, 328 Clair Drive, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Give Your Grandchildren the Gift of LifeCindy Brophy, State Farm® Agent

When trying to choose the right gift for your grandchild, you can have a tough time sifting through the newest trends and fads. Last week it was this pop star, next week it may be a new cartoon character. On top of that, you don’t want to get something that won’t last ten minutes out of the package. One gift that will last for many years is a life insurance policy. There are a number of reasons why it can be an excellent gift for your grandchild.

Affordability. The younger the child’s • age, the lower the premiums.Protection. Illness or injury may affect • a child’s ability to purchase life insur-ance coverage later in life. Coverage purchased now will continue to pro-vide protection, even if a child’s health changes, provided premiums are paid as required by the policy.Financial security. Life insurance can • be the foundation for a strong financial plan. The child may be able to borrow against the accumulated cash value (with interest charged) to pay for future expenses. While loans decrease death benefits and cash surrender values, the proceeds can be used for important expenses, including college education or the purchase of a home.Giving a gift of life insurance to your

grandchild can be one of the most signifi-cant things you do during your lifetime. He or she may not understand at the time how important the gift is, but he or she will grow to appreciate it in the future. Take the guesswork out of your gift shopping! Life insurance is a gift that will last a lifetime.

Holidays... a Time for GivingHolidays... a Time for Giving

See inside front cover for Louis Anthony Jewelers ad.

Pearls RedefinedAmie GuarinoPearls have often been associated with

classic styling. Once predictable and sensible, pearl jewelry has experienced one of the most daring and refreshing metamorphoses in jewelry history. Once relegated to debutante balls and country club socials, pearls are getting a fresh start in everyday wear and high fashion looks.

Historically, saltwater pearls were highly coveted over freshwater varieties. Known for their unique satiny luster, and large size, highly desirable saltwater pearls are harvested in areas of the Pacific and Indian oceans. South Sea and Akoya varieties are considered the finest. While their beauty and rarity proves this to be true, the lengthy cultivation process and small volume production limits availability to a broader audience.

Advances in the cultivation of freshwater pearls have given way to their popularity. Producers are able to supply a high quality and affordable product that packs a punch in the looks department. Freshwater pearls can be harvested without sacrificing quality and are often of the baroque variety. Baroque pearls are irregular in shape and larger varieties make stunning statements in rings and necklaces. Most highly desired are the white and natural colors, however freshwater pearls in shades of grey and even trendy metallic tones are breathing new life into traditional jewelry. Some refreshing and modern twists this season include freshwater pearl tassel necklaces, baroque pearl statement rings, and long strands of pearls accented with diamond beads.

Ultimately, the value and appeal of fine quality freshwater pearls is undeniable. New applications and contemporary styling are sure to excite any jewelry enthusiast or maybe even the pearl jewelry skeptic alike! n


In this economy, an investment in your home is one of the safest investments you can make. Whether you plan to live in your home long term or are planning to sell your home within the next 5 years, a new kitchen and bath can offer a 30% return on your investment. Premier Home Design Center offers expertise and products designed to fit your budget. Call Premier now for an excellent return on your biggest investment.

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Lights, Candles, Action!Ron Sarrick, Mary Lynne Spazok

Take action this holiday season when it comes to iridescent interior and sparkling landscape lighting. USC’s Ron Sarrick, Superintendent of Building Operations and Sustainability, has attempted to convert me to LED lights. However he is unsuc-cessful for the following reason: I have a cache of string and single incandescent legacy lights.

What are legacy lights? Leftover lights are inherited or they purposefully gravitate to my shopping cart at the holiday’s half-off sales. It is an addiction, and I just can’t help myself. I cannot bear to let go of the past or send these light strings to a landfill when they remain perfectly good. Further, the mixing of 2011 supernovas with “A Christmas Story” lights is like wearing plaids and stripes at the same time! However, to help conserve I do make use of interior and exterior timers as well as window candles with dusk to dawn sensors.

Lighting the night with a string of 35 whites on an indoor artificial topiary (definitely, a decorator faux pas!) is so cheery. Can anyone justify LED’s worth and defend the cost before incandescent is off store shelves forever? Let us consider Ron’s provocative challenge.

At this writing, a refreshing sunrise chill is exhilarating. My early morning routine led me to the computer and an email from my friend, Mary Lynne Spazok. “Please tell me why I should give up my seasonal legacy lighting for LEDs,” she challenged. Well MLS, there are some very good reasons for you to take the leap. However, I must set the mood for this 180 degree temperature swing as soon as I crank up the AC to get into the celebratory holiday spirit.

My pitch is simple: conserve energy. But for a moment, forget about squandered energy. In 2011, how many of you have the “dinosaur” bubbler lights? Not too many, I suspect. They are the elite accent for making any tree majestic, but are dreadfully dangerous with the risk of burns and overloaded electrical circuits. Old school seasonal lighting is of the colored and white variety with the mini screw base. These energy hogs consume five or seven watts per bulb. They burn hot and can cause structure fires.

A wise replacement, the mini incandescent, offers low wattage, is economical, and avoids overheating and fire potential. The disadvan-tage is that sections of lights on the string go out when a bulb fails. This initiates a time consuming effort of trial and error bulb swapping. Frustrated, you give in and purchase new lights… matching style to keep “the look” consistent. You have just set yourself up for the same outcome going forward. Yes, you do have a wiser choice! Save money, time, and aggravation; purchase LEDs from the onset when one bulb goes out on your current string of lights.

LED technology benefits include:DurabilityExtended serviceEnergy efficient low wattagePersonal energy and travel time diminishedLess power to operate, can be “daisy chained”Longer life expectancy than incandescent lighting“Green,” consumes the least amount of powerEliminates tripping circuits, excess heating of the wire

While you will pay more for these newly found treasures, all things considered, you will be further ahead down the road on dol-lars spent per watt.

Here at USC Township, as we continue to feature seasonal dis-plays, we get closer to circuit overload. This season, the dazzling deer on the front lawn boast LEDs. Failed incandescent strings were impossible to keep up with. Year after year, extra sets of wire and lights were amassed to accommodate burn-outs. Out of control, the beloved deer were gaining weight with all the additions. LEDs were the solution. The deer are back to their svelte selves and happy to have shed the extra pounds!

String lights aren’t just for Christmas anymore! Find the perfect lights for nu-merous occasions at Miller’s Ace Hardware store in neighboring Bethel Park. One-stop shopping for electrical must haves, this store showcases a cosmic collection. Assistant manager Eric Hladis in-ventories conventional string lights for as little as $1.99 a package, while LEDs, which are a bit pricier, are rising in popularity.

Eric states, “LEDs glow has improved significantly. Color change LEDs enrich a decorating scheme, inside or out. Further, rather than a max of three con-ventional strings, they allow for more than 20 connections. As the holidays near, patrons have preferences, but when challenged with our sizeable selection, questions abound. Can I blend traditional and LEDs? Is there a long-term cost savings? Our competent staff guides con-sumers through the vast array of innovative illumination. Re-member, LED warm white is the color of traditional truer white.”

So inventory, strategize, and then visit Miller’s for a stress free “enlightening” experience!

While electrics are effortless, everyone appreciates a wax candle that embodies holiday spirit! Fung Shui is cozying up to the fireplace, eggnog in hand, trilling about your favorite things! From the turkey to the tree, nothing delights the sense of smell more than a candle’s scent of apple cider, mint chocolate, or pumpkin pie spice.

Through the centuries, candles have been offered as gifts to ward off darkness. Historically, their first use was during the Roman jubilee of Saturnalia. Tall tapers of light were offered honoring planet Saturn, the Roman God of Agriculture. Contrast-ing, pagans’ candlelight and bonfires bid farewell to the past by

Manager Eric Hladis of Miller’s Ace Hardware

Ron Sarrick tends to the Township’s deer

Lights, Candles, Action!Ron Sarrick, Mary Lynne Spazok


lighting the way to a new cycle of seasons. As Christianity grew, candles were placed in windows to guide the Christ Child on Christmas eve.

In the early 1700s, America became a journey’s end for free-dom; immigrants trekked the wide open spaces of the western frontier. In those homesteading times, distant dwellings welcomed travelers with a solitary (tallow or beeswax) candle aglow in the window. Through the swirl of a blinding storm, that faint glimpse of hope spared many lives. Later, during Victorian times, mer-chants and tradesmen would gift pine-oil perfumed tapers, tied together with vibrant ribbon, as favors to loyal patrons. Lit upon a Christmas tree, tapers symbolized the Star of Wonder (an angel sent by God to lead the Magi to the Christ Child).

Candle therapy has been practiced for centuries, harmonizing ones power of mind, body, and spirit. Soy wax is the healthier wax alternative as it not only burns cleaner, but slower, too! A soy candle burns up to twice as long, while its “scent throw” radi-ates a clean, vibrant aroma. You may be disturbed about this next point, but it’s been noted that paraffin wax initiates headaches not from the scent itself, but from certain chemicals (petroleum derivatives) that burning paraffin emits.

In 2011, support American farmers and our own economy! Purchase soy candles created from soy beans grown in the United States. These candles are more cost effective than paraffin not only in quality, but quantity, too. Foreign, cut-rate paraffin candles benefit big business. Detrimental to one’s health, the main concern with paraffin wax is that its properties are derived from crude oil. Cheap metal (zinc) core wicks are pollutants as well. The EPA has determined that, in general, interior air is three times more polluted than the air outside. The burning of paraffin contributes substantially to the decline of indoor air quality with emissions that irritate the lungs and can trigger asthma attacks.

Another alternative is the all-natural beeswax candle. Casting a brighter flame, these candles exude sunshine. It is a well-established fact that burning beeswax emits natural negative ions into the air which clean the air and invigorate the body. Beeswax draws its color and aroma from the honey and pollen packed into each honeycomb cell. The hand poured candles’ color variations depend largely on the floral pollination source. Quality candles will vary in color, assuring that 100% beeswax is never chemically treated or bleached. Soy or beeswax, continue a healthy tradition and delight in the candle’s hues, aromas, and radiance by adding a touch of magic year round.

Window “welcome” candles, battery or electric, are comple-mentary to flame candles. Showcasing a peaceful, elegant aura, traditional style homes bypass strings of holiday lights for a single glorious candle twinkling from ev-ery window. Have you wondered, “What is the meaning behind these window candles?” Although they may characterize a family that loves the aura of simplicity and refine-ment, for others the significance is much deeper—it guides the Biblical Mary and Joseph. A secular offering of hospitality invites weary travelers to come in where there is room at the hearth. During wartime, both

then and now, this beacon of hope, the humble window candle, is a guide and promise kept lit until loved ones return home safely.

Electric, battery, or natural wax candles are choices that we have. Whether your reason is rooted in history, security, or you simply “like the look,” not having an electrical outlet close to a window or door is vexing. Ron clarifies that a battery operated candle is a sensible alternative and a “green” decision.

Consider this: Are your batteries sustainable? You may be surprised to know that primary dry cell batteries are a “one shot power source”—not eco-friendly. Unlike rechargeable batteries, a steady stream of cheaper, less powerful units lose their energy quickly (depending on the application) where the end of the journey is a landfill.

We thrive in a mobile society. Consider flashlights, calculators, remote controls, clocks, and a host of others that use the AA, AAA, C, D, or 9-volt battery for a single energy source. This little cell has been the ticket to some of our favorite forms of portable entertainment and added convenience touching every level of our lives. It is also economical to want the best value for a hard earned dollar. According to the Tribune Review, May 5, 2011, the best battery value of all the primary cell or disposable batteries is the alkaline. It packs more punch and lasts much longer. The study, as printed, found that all alkaline cells performed measurably equal, no matter which brand, including generic. ConsumerSearch.com reinforces this finding, adding a marginal edge for Duracell.

The term “heavy duty” can be confusing. These cells are actu-ally a zinc-carbon upgrade from the now defunct zinc-oxide cell, which often leaked. Its potential energy is a bit better than the standard battery, but much less than the alkaline. Look to the alkaline to get the best bang for your buck.

There is one more consideration when battery shopping—secondary cell or “the rechargeable.” This improved cell is now easily charged in about an hour. These units work with the re-chargeable AA, AAA, C, D, and 9-volt battery. Intrigued? Visit the Internet and type “disposable vs. rechargeable batteries.” Many sites will reveal relevant pros and cons.

Recycling is a hot button issue. It is a matter to consider since there are chemicals in all batteries, some more toxic than others. Today, all categories of batteries should be salvaged because it is prudent and environmentally beneficial. The key to less waste is through recycling and purchasing longer life batteries. So, the next time that portable device needs repowered, your dollar can go farther by selecting the best grade battery.

Moving towards 2012, the radiance of festive lights and win-dow candles, bestowing guiding lights of consolation, inspiration, and peace of mind, can also be energy wise. n

Be Safe with CandlesAccidental candle fires account for approximately four

percent of U.S. residential fires. There’s a special beauty and tranquility in burning candles, but an open flame lighted candle is a potential fire hazard if not carefully monitored. The National Candle Association urges consum-ers to follow these three basic rules of fire safety:

Never leave a burning candle unattended. •Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.•Never burn a candle on or near anything flammable.•

Soy, electric, beeswax, battery


Upper St. Clair School DistrictBoard of School Directors *Date indicates expiration of term.


Administrator Secretary/Email Address Extension

Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole ............................... Mary Ann Stabile ............................ 2201Superintendent of Schools [email protected]

Dr. Sharon Suritsky .................................. Donna Faccenda / Assistant Superintendent for Cheryl Elison .......................2218 / 2116Curriculum and Instruction/ [email protected] of Special Education [email protected]

Dr. John Bornyas ....................................... Karen Huckestein ............................2204Director of Operations, Community [email protected] and Special Projects

Dr. Judy Bulazo ......................................... Donna Faccenda .............................2218Director of Literacy, Assessment, [email protected] Professional Development

Frosina Cordisco ....................................... Dawn Machi ....................................2220Director of Finance and Business [email protected]

Liz Hall ....................................................... Tiffany Suryand ..............................2286Director of Advancement [email protected]

Ray Berrott ................................................. Doreen Leech ...................................2211Director of Technology [email protected]

Eloise Stoehr .............................................. Susan Bosco ....................................2283Supervisor of Pupil Personnel [email protected]

Chuck Samek, Matthews Bus Company ... Karen Powers ..................................3450Transportation Manager [email protected]

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

School District Building AdministrationDr. Michael Ghilani ........... Principal of the High SchoolLou Angelo ........................... Assistant Principal of High School Jace Palmer .......................... Assistant Principal of High School Dr. William Rullo ............... Supervisor of High School GuidanceJoseph DeMar ..................... Principal of Fort Couch Middle SchoolJohn Rozzo ........................... Assistant Principal of Fort Couch Middle SchoolKaren Brown ...................... Principal of Boyce Middle SchoolMark Miller ......................... Acting Principal of Baker Elementary SchoolMark Miller ......................... Principal of Eisenhower Elementary SchoolDr. Claire Miller ................. Principal of Streams Elementary School

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

Dr. John BornyasDirector of Operations, Community Relations and Special Projects

Dr. Judy BulazoDirector of Literacy,

Assessment, and Professional Development

Ray BerrottDirector

of Technology

Amy L. Billerbeck412-833-2712

2011*

Louis A. Piconi412-831-1880

2011*

Barbara L. Bolas412-833-9841

2011*

Rebecca A. SternVice President412-220-0745

2011*

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

2013*

Frosina CordiscoDirector of Finance

and Business

Liz HallDirector of

Advancement

Dr. Sharon SuritskyAssistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction/

Supervisor of Special Education

Eloise StoehrSupervisor of

Pupil Personnel

Harry F. KunselmanPresident

412-851-11152013*

Angela B. Petersen412-831-7182

2011*

Frank J. Kerber412-833-4873

2013*

Bruce L. Kerman412-221-5407

2013*

The 2011-12 regular meetings of the Upper St. Clair Township

Board of School Directors are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Central Office Board Room, unless otherwise noted. No regular meeting is

scheduled for July.

School District Detailed Monthly CalendarVisit www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.

SD


SDDirector of Advancement Named

Meet Liz Hall

On May 9, 2011, the Board of School Directors of Upper St. Clair selected Liz Hall as the new Director of Advancement for the District, an important component to the District’s goals and strategies.

Earlier in the 2010-11 school year, the District Advancement Function was established to develop and implement a Strategic Advancement Plan that assesses the District’s assets and needs that would include, but not be limited to:

investigating and optimizing sources of revenue,1. engaging and coordinating with the District’s volunteer 2. groups such as alumni, PTA, PTSO, and booster organiza-tions,managing public affairs,3. formalizing the partnership with the Community 4. Foundation of Upper St. Clair,seeking business opportunities and relationships that sup-5. port the District’s short- and long-term goals, and,maintaining accountability and compliance standards for 6. Advancement activities.

The goals of the Advancement Function are to enhance the District’s goal of financial independence; expand revenues to mini-mize the adverse effect of current fluctuating funding from local,

state, and federal sources; create new funding sources; establish ef-fective coordination of volunteer groups and their efforts; expand efforts in the area of grant and funding opportunities; increase public affairs activities; increase viable partnerships; and foster a culture of philanthropy within and toward the District.

The Upper St. Clair School District has been named the num-ber one school district in Pennsylvania for the sixth consecutive year. Administrators and School Board members are committed to maintaining a world-class public education in Upper St. Clair.

The short-term goals of the new Director of Advancement include planning a successful inaugural fundraising event in partnership with the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair, securing corporate sponsors for the scoreboard signs in the High School stadium, working with administrators, teachers, and cur-riculum leaders to submit competitive grant applications, and establishing an internal Advancement Committee to review and prioritize opportunities.

Because her position is new, Liz stated that her role in the School District is evolving and will continue to evolve as new initiatives are explored. Contact Liz with suggestions or ideas at 412-833-1600, ext. 2826 or [email protected]. n

Liz Hall has a long-standing relationship with the Upper St. Clair School District. Raised on Warwick Drive as one of five children of Margaret and Tom Whyte, Liz was a 1987 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School.

After attending the University of Richmond where she majored in journal-ism and communications, Liz worked for close to ten years on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC for Congressman Alan Mollohan (D-WV). She began her career as a specialist on the Federal Budget and Appropriations processes and spent the last three years of her tenure as the Congressman’s Chief of Staff.

In 1998, Liz married Mt. Lebanon native David Hall and moved home to Pittsburgh where she started her own consulting company to assist non-profit organizations.

The couple now resides on Engelwood Drive with their three children, Katy (11), Buddy (9), and Lexi (8).

Liz is a past-president of the Upper St. Clair PTA Council and she and Dave are both actively involved with Casey’s Clubhouse and that organization’s efforts to bring a Miracle League Field to Upper St. Clair. n

HailProfessional: Benjamin Edwards (USCHS), Yasmina Hough (Fort Couch), Juliana Lamantia (Fort Couch),

Anne Rose (USCHS), Sarah Smith (Fort Couch)

Classified: Leo Rudge (USCHS), Robert West (Boyce)

FarewellAdministrative: Ruth Ann Matyuf, Lee Schaffer

Professional: Bernard O’Brien, Deborah Ford, Nancy Groff, Janis Kapadia, Joyce Pratt, David Silvers, Virginia Zemaitis

Classified: Joyce Bartolomo, Carole Beltz, Ron Cline, Ronald Crum, Mary Gates, Rori Howard, Janet Jones, Kathryn Robinson, David Shelpman, Carol Shewan

Welcome to USC School District’s new hires for the 2011-12 school year:

Welcome to USC School District’s new hires for the 2011-12 school year:

Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service:

Thank you to the following District retirees for their years of service:

Liz Hall


New Teachers—Well Prepared for USC Culture and ExpectationsDr. Judith Bulazo, Director of Literacy, Assessment, and Professional Development

The Upper St. Clair School District has been known for its rich tradition of professional development and has placed a high value on the continued training and growth of all District professionals. Though new teachers are hired for their educa-tional knowledge and experiences, when they are welcomed to USC School District’s professional team, additional training is necessary in order to create an understanding of the instructional and professional expectations of the District. As a school district

known for excellence, USC administration is very con-scious of the need to pass along sound instructional knowledge along with the culture of high expecta-tions and student, family, and community-centered partnerships.

The Pennsy lvan ia Department of Education requires that all districts in Pennsylvania offer an

induction program for new professionals. Though a requirement of the state, minimal content and format are prescribed, leaving a great deal of responsibility to each school district for determining programming for new teachers. Some districts have chosen to outsource this training to the Intermediate Units (not-for-profit branches of the Department of Education that provide support to school districts), that provide solid training experiences, but include sessions that may or may not be consistent with a particular district’s goals, needs, and values.

USC School District has worked diligently for many years to provide an induction program that is customized to the needs of Upper St. Clair teachers and that represents best practices and experiences that promote a culture of excellence. An orientation session and an additional six days of training are provided to new professionals over the course of the first two years in the District. Two of these days occur before the professionals begin their work assignments, prior to the start of the school year.

These induction training sessions have been organized around an instructional framework that enhances professional practice and has been designed by supervision researcher Charlotte Danielson. This same framework is used in the evaluation process for all teachers in Upper St. Clair and in Pennsylvania, seamlessly tying together the professional learning process with a mechanism for potential feedback and refinement of a teacher’s knowledge and practices. The instructional framework consists of four domains: planning and preparation, classroom environment, instruction, and professional responsibilities. All of the topics presented in the induction program are categorized into these four domains, recognizing that the profession of teaching entails more than just effectively spending time in front of students.

The variety of topics presented through the induction pro-gram include, but are not limited to, meeting the diverse needs of students, 21st century skills, using technology to enhance instruction, assessment practices that promote learning, student engagement, District decision-making and curriculum processes, responsibilities for developing as a professional, and much more. These sessions are typically led by professionals from the District who are experts in the particular area being addressed. Sessions are delivered so that good instructional and professional practices are modeled. Learning targets are provided to the teachers for each training session. Just as teachers are being trained to provide resources and practice in an online format that is accessible to

students 24/7 through the District’s Blended Schools platform, the induction pro-gram models this practice by making all resources and as-signments accessible to new teachers through this same electronic format. Pre- and post-assignments are also given to enhance the applica-tion of the learning.

Initial training time is also spent analyzing and un-

derstanding the District’s mission statement. The professionals are asked to consider the mission from the viewpoint of a student, a

The induction program really prepares us to

step into our classrooms as professionals. The professionals at USC really made us feel comfortable while

challenging me to succeed.

I found the induction program to be very helpful. I am learning so much and I feel the

support. It is nice to be around other new teachers who are going through the same things as me. Thank you for the excellent

training, support, and information.

I really enjoyed the induction and mission-oriented

training. I think it is really an interesting and meaningful way to help me understand

matters as well as the methods I should know and use.

SD


SD

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parent, and a teacher. They are asked to select key words from the mission statement that they think might speak most strongly to each stakeholder. One homework assignment asks the professionals to visit (or recall a visit to) a Starbucks Coffee Shop and to come back prepared to discuss the event in light of the experiences provided by the Upper St. Clair School District. Parallels are then drawn to the customization process, the warm atmo-sphere, the knowledge of the professionals providing the services, and the resulting name recognition and reputation for success and excellence. The initial orientation day concludes with one of the favorite activi-ties of the new professionals, a bus tour of Upper St. Clair Township. This one-hour tour allows the teachers to see all of the schools in the District as well as important sites in the community while being provided with some history and noteworthy details. These are just small examples of the many opening activities that are used to acclimate new teachers to the District.

In addition to induction training ses-sions, new professionals are also supported by a number of District personnel. A men-tor teacher is assigned to provide support, advice, and guidance that are necessary to making the initial experiences of the profes-sional positive and successful. The mentor provides coaching, collaboration, and forma-tive observations. District curriculum leaders also provide mentorship, particularly in the implementation of content and strategies prescribed in the USC curriculum. Building principals play a key role in acclimatizing the new teachers to the operations of the District and their instructional and professional responsibilities. Colleagues and teaching teammates also offer critical support and encouragement.

New teachers of Upper St. Clair recognize that much is expected of them, but they feel welcomed and well-supported in their efforts. They gain a great sense of pride in being selected to work in USC’s wonderful District. n

Quotes placed throughout the article are from new USC teachers.

I came to this induction slightly nervous and not

knowing what to expect. I found that the days were very informative and welcoming.


SDStudent Leadership Academy 2011

ElementaryDuring the USC Elementary Leadership Academy week,

students experienced a variety of hands-on activities, geared to developing their understanding of five of the leadership cor-nerstones: Commitment, Teamwork, Integrity, Courage, and Reflection. Students enjoyed being “master architects,” crossing the “Alligator River,” and encouraging one another at a climb-ing wall.

Daily time for journal reflection helped the students to make connec-tions to their own experiences and to plan how they would intention-ally integrate the cornerstones into their daily lives. As the team looks to the 2011-12 school year, students are poised to provide leadership in each elementary school, putting the cornerstones into action.

Participants: Eden Auslander, Casey Bakayza, Maggie Halloran, Allison Schuldt, Vianna Shiry, Andrew Casey, Olivia Gregory, Nathan Hamel, Nicholas Heinrich, Matthew Hyatt, Ashley Joyner, Justin Maglin, Caroline McCormack, Nathan Piatt, Brody Ploeger, Callahan Sollie, Gabriella Spina, Loren White, Cosette Bayles, Jacob Conte, Isabela Couoh, Devan Ekbote, Gavin Genter, Marty Gold, Keith Kerber, Ian Kirby, Jackie Kobeski, Demi Kucherawy, Gracie Lowden, Luke McDonnell, Isabella Putorti, Anika SinhaFacilitators: Matt Alloway, Liz Conrad, Nicole Lesovitch, Renee McCarthy, Lauren Mechler, Leslie Smirniw, Stacey Templeton, Tim WagnerAcademy leader: Dr. Claire Miller

BoyceThe Boyce Leadership Academy pro-

vided the opportunity for students to expand on the core qualities of leader-ship. Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of activities that allowed for application of the ten core qualities and self-reflection of strengths and needs in regards to the core qualities. Students had the ultimate task of developing and “leading” younger chil-dren in a recreational activity. Through peer and self-reflection, students gained further insight of their leadership skills. This group of students will meet throughout the school year for further reflection, discussion, and growth.

Participants: Sanath Boddhula, Sahil Doshi, Thejaswi Duvvuru, Mary Claire Engel, Elizabeth Gillece, Jonah Glunt, Katy Hall, Matthew Higgs, Wyatt Keating, Laura Lapham, Ashley Long, Emily Megonnell, Samuel Ramos, Arsalan Saeed, David Sileo, Daniel Speer, Samantha SpinaFacilitators: Amy Antonio, Mark Goelz, Justin Gremba, Kathy HoedemanAcademy leader: Amy Pfender

This past July, the Upper St. Clair School District hosted its second annual Student Leadership Academy. After the success of last year’s inaugural academy, the District’s administrative team decided to expand this educational program and make it available to students at all levels. In July 2010, the one-week summer workshop at the high school accepted 20 students. Only one year later, 122 students attended five different academies spanning grades 4, 6, 8, and 9-12.

All five of the academies operated from the foundational principle: Who you are is how you lead. This concept illustrates the im-portance of and relationship between personal development as a means of cultivating leadership skills. As Dr. Charles Schwahn, a professional educator, author, consultant, and speaker at the academy said, “If you don’t have your personal act together, don’t expect to have your leadership act together.” Through the use of experiential learning strategies, reflection, and goal setting, all students began their journey of personal leadership development.

My son learned

a great deal about the importance of

teamwork and listening to others, and how these

relate to being a good leader.—Parent

T h i s camp was one

that was initially “My parents are making me do

this.” However, after the first day, our child was so excited and couldn’t wait to go the rest of the week. Her comment was, “Mom, thank you for signing me up, I

love it. Dad and you really know what is best for

me.”—Parent

I learned that you

have to be open to new things and take risks once

in a while. —Student

It was neat to

hear the kids begin to articulate what makes a

great leader... not just the “boss.” These skills would

be helpful for many adults. —Parent

Playing a game called “hoop it up” where each team is trying to get the 20 balls into their hula hoop. After a few minutes and many attempts, they realize that if the entire group works together and puts their hula hoops together, everyone wins.

Boyce participants


SDFort Couch

Fort Couch Middle School piloted the Leadership Academy this July with outstanding success. Students who took part in the academy participated in over 20 activities that helped build and foster essential leadership skills. Some of the highlights of the week included working with a partner to design a fictitious business that serves the community, participating in an obstacle course while blindfolded with the assistance of a partner, completing trust falls, participating in a magic carpet activity, building blind, and much more. A rewarding activity of the week was the trip to Upper St. Clair’s Friendship Village where students assisted seniors in the creation of sand art crafts. Students and staff are already looking forward to next year’s academy!

Participants: Juliana Balta, Aleen Klym, Keerthana Lanka, Evan Mamakos, Jahnavee Mittal, Nymisha Rameswarapu, Ben Rieker, Katherine Starr, Alexis Venturini, Emily YoosFacilitators: Michelle Senneway, Dan O’Rourke, Tom KaminskiAcademy leader: John Rozzo

Continued on page 34

I have a better understanding of what

it is to be a part of a team. —Student

Yes, because it really helped me feel more confident and know how to be

a better leader myself. —Student, when asked if

she would recommend this opportunity to another

student.

I loved this academy! I want

to come again! —Student

My least favorite activity was... well I didn’t have a

least favorite activity! I liked them all! —Student, when asked about his least

favorite activity

Two students partner up. One leads his blindfolded partner through a teacher-made minefield. The blindfolded partner must listen closely to his leader to help him successfully

navigate the minefield.

During the service field trip to Friendship Village, the students organized, led, and

completed a craft with the senior citizens.

Fort Couch participants


SDHigh School Phase I

In the High School Phase I Academy students focused on personal leadership development. Through the use of expe-riential learning strategies and physical and mental challenges, students re-flected upon their decision-making and behaviors. Students also developed a Personal Leadership Plan designed to guide students through personal goal setting and creating personal mission and vision statements.

Participants: Rosa Alesi, Joseph Ardolino, Martin Bacik, Alex Bogdanova, Maura Boston, Alex Bowman, Brenna Carse, Erica Chuong, Ananya Cleetus, Olivia Criss, Alexandra DiCenzo, Clayton Dubbs, Mary Dudas, Yasaswi Duvvuru, Catherine Engel, Will Erlanger, Alivia Fink, Peter Frauen, Paige Gillen, Shivani Gosai, Aaron Harris, Garrett Himler, Steven Joiner, Noah Kalathunkal, Lindsey Kirkpatrick, Colin Kunselman, Nathan Lachell, Jacob Lemis, Alex Loverich Bernard, Kaleigh Mace, Carson Mafrice, Shibani Mally, Mark McTiernan, Anna Meenen, Owen Meiman, Sarah Meiman, JP Miller, Nikita Nagpal, Olivia Nusselt, Eliana Ondrejko, Chrysann Panos, Sam Park, Nick Ramser, Evan Roy, Hassan Saeed, Nick Sembrat, Katherine Snyder, Emily Sota, Yash Tripathi, Greg VitcavageFacilitators: Mike Funfar, Jen Kirk, Johanna Rennoff, Jen WagnerAcademy leader: Lou Angelo

High School Phase IIStudents piloting the High School Phase II Academy took their

leadership skills a step further. Compared to Phase I where the students are forced to look intrinsically, Phase II students began the process of looking extrinsically by initiating an organization that serves others while reflecting a personal connection to the cause. Students created the mission and vision for these orga-nizations and will continue working on the organization plans throughout the school year.

Participants: Maria Alessi, Marissa Behun, Milo Freese, Sean Gaudio, Poorwa Godbole, Hannah Harris, John Kyriacopoulos, Peter Rigano, Mackenzie Rodgers, Jordan Ryan, Adam Sneath, Morgan Wangler, Tara WilliamsFacilitators: Doug Kirchner, Lou AngeloAcademy leader: Lou Angelo

Continued from page 33

I stepped

out of my comfort zone and learned a lot about myself and how to be a good leader.

—Student

I think that we learned a lot about

ourselves, but also about others and how to motivate people. —Student

Phase II improved my

leadership skills through the inspiration of thinking

big into the future as well as celebrating small victories.

—Student

It is fun. You get to

learn to have open heart conversations with the group and learn because you want

to. —Student

Erica Chuong scales the rope ladder prior to making her final ascent

through the hanging tire. Moments later she completed the climb and

stood on the tire at 70 feet in the air.

Partners Jacob Lemis and Nick Ramser work together to ascend the vertical ladder.

USCHS participants

What’s Next?Lou Angelo, USCHS assistant principal and creator of the District’s Student Leadership Academy,

continues to tweak his vision for the students. “For the most part, my vision continues to be the same: to institute a program to foster leadership skills for all students K-12, but the reality is developing leadership skills isn’t a one-week plunge, it’s a lifelong journey. I envision getting to a point where these leadership skills are part of a positive District-wide behavioral support plan implemented in each school building and valued as part of our culture at Upper St. Clair.”

Lou and his team of facilitators plan to develop Phases III and IV for the high school, and consideration to expand the program-ming for the students at the elementary and middle level buildings has already begun.

“Our students and families deserve tremendous credit for recognizing the importance of developing leadership skills, some sacri-ficing their summer vacation to participate,” Lou said. “In addition, our teams of facilitators and academy leaders did a tremendous job creating lessons that forced our students to reflect and grow. The Student Leadership Academy has been so fortunate to have the unwavering support of our school board, administration, and community, and with this type of commitment, we can really impact our children as students today and adults tomorrow.” n


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Value-Added AssessmentDr. John Bornyas, Director of Operations, Community Relations, and Special ProjectsDuring this past school year, the Pennsylvania Department of Education

released the Pennsylvania Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS) Reports for all school districts in the Commonwealth. PVAAS is another method by which the state can provide indicators of the effectiveness of a district school in making academic progress with students. Achievement results (PSSA) and growth results (PVAAS) must be used together to get a complete picture of student learning.

While PSSA scores are more “student” specific in nature, PVAAS scores are more “aggregate” in nature. Value-added is a statistical analysis used to measure a district’s or school’s impact on the academic progress rates of groups of students from year-to-year. Conceptually and as a simple explanation, a value-added “score” is calculated by using current achievement (current results measured by an appropriate test such as the PSSA) with prior achievement (on the same appropriate test) to determine growth.

The following information is provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. To understand the concept of value-added analysis and reporting, imagine a child’s physical growth curve. Every year, a child stands up against the wall; the parent puts a ruler on his head and measures the child’s height at ages two, three, four, and so on.

From these data points, the parent can construct a graph to illustrate the height of the child, and then use these points to construct a graph of the growth of the child. Often, parents discover that this growth curve does not resemble the smooth line seen on a pediatrician’s chart. Instead, there are “dimples” and “bubbles” in this constructed graph. Children may have growth spurts. In addition, errors of measurement are possible: the child may not have stood straight or the parent did not hold the ruler level.

Now apply the same process to education. Imagine that a school has been testing each student annually in math and that the scores from these tests are used to construct a graph of each student’s math growth. The graph for any group of students will likely exhibit a pattern of dimples and bubbles similar to the physical growth graph for an individual child. However, if by aggregating the information on many students we discover a dimple effect occurring at a specific grade level in math at a specific school, then the dimple may be evidence that math in this specific grade level may need to be examined.

This is an example of using value-added—following the progress of students over time to estimate their growth during a year of schooling. With value-added assessment, educators get a sense of whether they are making appropriate academic progress for their students.

More specifically, value-added does this by following the same students over time and then looking at the progress of groups of students to make an estimate of educational ef-fectiveness. These schooling influences accumulate across the years and measurably affect students’ attainment at least four years beyond the grade in which the student encoun-tered them. Without a value-added metric for measuring effective schooling, districts and schools have no way of knowing if they are capitalizing academic growth opportunities for all students. Student opportunities to progress each year must be maximized to allow more students to enroll in and be academically prepared for college and a career.

By measuring students’ academic achievement and progress, schools and districts will have a more comprehensive picture of their effectiveness in raising student achievement.

The benefits of value-added offers a more objective, accurate way to measure student progress and the influence the school has on students’ educational experiences. With this information, educators are better able to:

Monitor the progress of all groups of students from low-achieving to high-achieving, ensuring •growth opportunities for all students.Measure the impact of educational practices, classroom curricula, instructional methods, and •professional development on student achievement.Make informed data-driven decisions about where to focus resources to help students make greater •progress and perform at higher levels.Modify and differentiate instruction to address the needs of all students.•Align professional development efforts in the areas of greatest need.•Network with other districts and schools that may be yielding different growth results.•Identify best practices and implement programs that best meet the needs of the students.• n

36 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2011 36 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2011

A Day In The District



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Ruth Ann Matyuf RetiresA familiar face was missing from Baker Elementary when school resumed this

fall, as Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf retired from USC after 18 years of dedicated service to the School District.

Dr. Matyuf began her tenure with the District on September 13, 1993, as Associate Middle School Principal. In July 1995, Dr. Matyuf was assigned as the High School Director of Secondary Level Education and Instructional Principal, and in July 2002, Dr. Matyuf was assigned as the Baker Elementary School Principal.

While serving as the High School Director of Secondary Level Education and In-structional Principal, Upper St. Clair High School received their third Excellence in Education “Blue Ribbon” Award and was also named a New American High School by the U. S. Department of Education.

Dr. Matyuf holds a bachelor of science degree from Penn State University and a mas-ter’s degree from Johns Hopkins University. She earned her Administration Program for Principals–Elementary Certification from California University of Pennsylvania and her Administration Program for Principals–Secondary Certification from the University of Pittsburgh. She received both her Letter of Eligibility Certification and Educational Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Patrick O’Toole, Superintendent of Schools, stated, “Dr. Matyuf has been an ef-fective instructional leader at Upper St. Clair for 18 years. Her strong commitment to the highest ideals of professionalism in education set her apart as a leader.” n

Boyce Field—Ready for Action!One of the most visible additions to Boyce Middle School is the

newly renovated athletic field on the west side of the school, located in front of the existing girls’ softball field.

The regulation size football field is lined for most field sports and will be used for football, soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey games and practices. The field also has a track around its perimeter, which residents can use for walking or running.

Specific hours for track and field use will be established. Community use of the field is permitted by the District and permits can be obtained through the District’s permitting procedures.

While the field can be accessed on foot from both Boyce and Morton Roads, vehicular traffic is limited to entrance and exit from Boyce Road only. n

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Lessons from the LinksTodd Flynn, coach of Upper St. Clair’s boys’ golf

team, doesn’t like to lose. Fortunately, USC’s golf team has a history of winning ways. The boys’ team has won 37 Section champion-ships and 17 WPIAL championships, tied with Penn Hills for the most WPIAL titles.

But even more important to Flynn is giving kids a direction for the rest of their lives, and golf is the tool he uses.

“Golf is the only sport with true integrity,” said Flynn, a retired USCHS social studies teacher. It’s the only sport where a player calls a penalty on themselves. I tell my players: “You may not always win, but you’ll always be gentlemen.”

Flynn also tells his team to think on every shot and ask them-selves what they have to do for the team to succeed. It is a lesson he said that they can apply later in life; for example, asking, “What do I have to do for the company to succeed?”

When playing high school golf, the team declares six players, keeping the five lowest scores with no handicap. With four sopho-mores, one junior, and one senior making up USC’s top six golfers this year, Flynn said it bodes well for the future of the team.

“Five years ago we had no freshmen come out for the team.” said Flynn, “so we had some rebuilding to do.” You need a steady feeder program, which is why the JV team, under the direction of USC Athletic Director Matt Mellinger, is so important explained Flynn. “The younger golfers benefit from the example of the more experienced golfers,” said Flynn, “like our senior Tim Novic. Tim’s been in the top six since he was a freshman.”

Lynn Zacur said her son Nelson’s love of golf has grown and become a passion since he made the varsity team. “It’s a sport he can enjoy now and for the rest of his life,” said Lynn. “You can’t ask for more than that.”

On the ladies’ tee,

the future looks equally bright for USC golfers. Coach Matt Henderson said the team is doing “quite well” this year. The girls’ team has won 28 Section championships including the last two in 2009 and 2010, as well as winning 17 WPIAL titles.

Henderson explained that in girls’ high school golf, the team declares their top five golfers, using the four lowest scores. With one sophomore, two juniors, and two seniors, Danielle von Waldow and Darby Gallo, composing the top five, the team is positioned to continue St. Clair’s winning ways in the future.

Henderson said golf is unique because there are no referees, judges, or umpires when the students are playing. It’s very rare to have no officials in high school sports he said. The players are the sole judges of their own play, and they could easily cheat, but they don’t. That personal responsibility is the essence of the game.

According to Henderson, a teacher at Boyce Middle School, another nice thing about participating in golf while in high school is that it gives the students an opportunity to take a break from the pressures of school.

“We’re so blessed to be able to play on a beautiful course like St. Clair Country Club,” said Henderson. “It gives the girls a kind

of escape where the only thing they have to concentrate on is getting the ball in the hole.”

“I really try to get the girls to have fun while they’re playing,” said Henderson. “I always ask them to tell me one positive thing about their round, even before telling me their score.”

As the father of three young daughters, Olivia, 8, Ally, 6, and Julia, 3, Henderson said he likes bringing his daughters to golf banquets to meet his players and observe their camaraderie. “The girls on the team are positive role models for my girls,” he said. n

Offering congratulations after the match

USCHS girls varsity golf team. Photo courtesy of M&M Photography.

A shot off the tee


SD

Boys Varsity Golf Team:Tim Novic (captain)

Matt BaroneGrant EngelPat JonnetKris Lantz

Pat McDonnellTrey Phillips

Thomas SteveCorey WildingNelson Zacur

Boys JV Golf Team:Zach BaroneCarl Behling

Austin CassidyJoe Musiol

David SchenkenJohn Wilcox

Brooks WildingJosh Zakaria

Girls Varsity Golf Team:Alyssa Beynon (captain)

Danielle VonWaldow (captain)Darby Gallo

Lindsay JohnstonMelissa Kearney

Mariah KellyLibby Phillips

Maddie PhillipsEva Roy

Jordan RyanStacey VespaAt press, the boys varsity golf team

advanced to the state championships, while Tim Novic advanced to states individually.

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Panther Marching Band Takes Top HonorsThe Upper St. Clair High

School “Panther”Marching Band performed in a Tourna-ment of Bands competition at Steel Valley High School in September. Out of eight bands competing, USC received the highest overall score, the highest scores for Auxiliary, Drumline, and Music, and the “Crowd Favorite” award.

En Garde!Upper St. Clair’s Giana Vierheller, an eighth grader at Fort Couch

Middle School, took gold in the 2011 U.S. Fencing Association’s National Championship, held this past July in Reno, Nevada.

Two years ago, Giana won the 10 and under championship in the Epee Division, this time claiming top honors in the Y12 age group. In fencing, Epee is the middle weighted sword between foil (the lightest) and saber (the heaviest).

Earlier this year, Giana won a gold medal in Women’s Y12 Epee at the U.S. Fencing North American Cup E national competition in Portland in April 2011. She also placed first in several Super Youth

national competitions and in regional competitions throughout the 2010-11 season, which runs September through July. In November 2010, she placed third in Women’s Y14 Epee at the U.S. Fencing North American Cup B national competition in Milwaukee and earned a “B” rating. (The best rating is “A” and usually held by 16 to 19-year-old fencers.)

While in Reno, Giana also placed 19th out of 133 competitors in the Women’s Cadet (under 17), qualifying for the 2012 Junior Olympics at Salt Lake City in February 2012.

Giana practices with Tiger Fencing Club in Eighty Four.

Gianna (Gigi) Vierheller

Kids Helping Kids Hosts Silent AuctionUSC High School’s Kids Helping Kids club hosted a silent auction in September in the

main theatre lobby of the school. The event, with dozens of items up for bid, supported the students’ annual Dominican Republic trip. Now in its fifth year, club sponsor and high school English teacher Tom Yochum said Kids Helping Kids has grown to between 60 and 70 members, with about 20 stu-dents making the yearly trip to the Dominican Republic. While best known for the work they do during their annual trip, the club also does outreach to local charities throughout the year, like volunteering at local food banks on the weekends.

Jessican Wasilco and Anna Rosati

Ralph Munn FinalistsUSCHS students Jessica Wasilco and Anna

Rosati were finalists in the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Ralph Munn Contest. The contest, which has categories for poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction, was advertised and pro-moted by USCHS librarians Janine Despines and Debbie Rentschler and the USC Town-ship librarians. The contest is funded by an endowment from former Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh director Ralph Munn. The finalists’ works were published in Ralph Munn Writing Anthology 2011.

School District Now on Facebook and TwitterUpper St. Clair School District is moving into so-

cial media to encourage and promote communications with families and the community. Visit the District’s home page at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us to “like them” on Facebook or to “follow them” on Twitter.

9/11 RemembranceOn Friday, September 9,

students and staff at USCHS acknowledged the tenth anni-versary of September 11, 2001 by watching a feature-length documentary simply titled “9/11.” The film, originally airing on CBS six months after the tragedy, is a first-hand ac-count of the heroic acts of the NYC firefighters at the World Trade Center.

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PTA CouncilRachel Lowden, PTA Council President

Our children learn from what we are, not what we say. When we give, we teach our children to give. When we give our time and attention, we show our children what we value and what we care about. When you volunteer your time and when you become of member of the PTA, you are showing your child that education is a priority.

Last school year, hundreds of USC parents gave their time in the USC School District. The five PTAs and USC parents contrib-uted more than $500,000 through sponsored events, fundraising, box tops programs, and Apples for Students programs. Thank you for giving your support to our children, our schools, and our future.

Baker ElementaryAliceson Yates, Baker Elementary PTA President

The “B” in Baker could stand for a multitude of things, but when it comes to giving, it stands for “big!” The Baker community of families has given generously to the school and its programming throughout the years. Although the focus may change from year to year based upon the needs of the school, one thing has always held true: the PTA will do what it takes to help our children suc-ceed in their school environment.

In order to achieve this goal, Baker families have pulled to-gether to provide advancements in technology by assisting in placing Promethean boards in each of the classrooms and special rooms in Baker, as well as providing Activotes and Activiews for classroom use.

Each year, Baker PTA continues to fund programming for the children to use in the classroom as well as at home: Learning A-Z, Brain Pop Jr., Whisper Phones, and computer headphones, as well as provide planners for all third and fourth graders.

The Baker PTA hosts three to four assemblies each year for all grades, correlating to the curriculum. The Carnegie Science Center comes to expand upon classroom room experiences with hands on lesson plans. Each year, the PTA brings in a guest author to emphasize and support the love of reading for the students.

Baker PTA realizes that fun activities bond students together. Baker families spend time at PTA-sponsored events, including playing Bingo, bowling, performing in the variety show, playing games at the Baker Boo Bash (the school’s major fundraiser), and flipping pancakes at a new event this year, Families and Flapjacks. All of these activities are possible because parents give of their time and talents.

Baker Elementary and the Baker PTA are lucky to have such wonderful parents who consistently give in a “Big Baker” way.

Eisenhower’s Circle of GivingChrissy Sileo, Eisenhower PTA President

In this season of giving and thanks, Eisenhower PTA mem-bers reflect on the spirit of the school and the people who make it great.

There are three different groups that form the school’s eco-system, and without each one the school would not function the same. The first group—the students who provide the raw energy, excitement, and motivation which challenge the staff each day. The second group—the staff that creates the environment that fosters growth and learning, making sure that every child has the oppor-tunity to achieve his or her potential. And, finally, the Eisenhower PTA that provides resources and educational experiences.

Each year, Eisenhower PTA raises funds through several activities including the “Eisenhowler” which provides a night of great fun for the students and families. All proceeds from the Eisenhowler go directly to fund student-related needs. The funds pay for many educational experiences that enhance the cur-riculum at the school. Last year, the Eisenhowler funds paid for school planners and folders, assembly programs, educational field trips for all grade levels, Weekly Reader magazines, and classroom technology, including ActiVote and Promethean interactive white boards. These resources help to energize and motivate the staff as they work to keep pace with a changing world and dynamic group of children.

The Eisenhower ecosystem is created from three groups giving to one another. The PTA gives the school needed support and as-sistance, while the staff gives each child valuable knowledge and attention. The students give back to both parents and teachers with their personal growth and development, and never ending enthusiasm.

Streams ElementaryEdie Andres, Streams PTA President

We’ve all heard the saying, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” This statement could not be more accurate than when applied to Streams PTA. The PTA could not exist without the won-derful building administrators, teachers, and Streams staff, but these wonderful assets increase in value with the support of the PTA.

Through the generous support of parents and teachers, the PTA improves the classroom by providing classroom technol-ogy, books and supplies, games, and gym equipment. Streams PTA purchased ten Actiview slates and seven Actiview document projectors to be used in the classrooms. These devices coordinate with and enhance the use of the previously purchased Promethean Boards. Every classroom had one to start the 2011-12 school year. Participation in Box Tops, Campbell’s Labels, Apples for the Students, and the book fair yielded over $2900 worth of classroom supplies.

The curriculum is enhanced through the programs, as-semblies, field trips—including a $1000 grant to The Outdoor Classroom—and Cultural Week events that take place during the year. Likewise, Streams students become more socially aware of others and help those in need through donating their time and talents to raise money at the Silent Auction and participating in outreach collections of food and clothing for local charities.

Friendships are solidified and memories are made during grade special level nights, Field Day celebrations, and the fourth grade graduation party.

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Streams teachers and staff are supported through volunteering and recognized and appreciated for their skills and talents. The whole education experience at Streams is made better because of the sum of the parts!

Boyce Middle SchoolMissy Moore, Boyce PTA President

All of the money raised by Boyce PTA throughout the year goes back to the school, teachers, and students. Boyce PTA funds many student events and student/teacher activities, including field trips, Author Day, Breakfast with Teachers, Boyce Pride, Random Acts of Kindness, and Valentine’s Day treats, to name a few.

Boyce PTA also “gifts to school” technology that the teach-ers, students, and staff are able to use on a daily basis, including Activotes for use in the classrooms and library. Projectors that don’t use transparencies, but rather a piece of paper to keep with the green initiative, have been purchased.

Boyce PTA is a great place to volunteer with great families. It makes giving back easy!

Fort Couch Middle SchoolSherri Woomer, Fort Couch PTA President

Fort Couch Middle School is proud to announce its “Reach Out” program—a holiday spirit project which will take place

the end of November to mid-December. Last year the students collected toys for a Homestead daycare center and also raised $11,600. Five thousand of that money went to the USC Police Department in the form of Giant Eagle gift cards, which were then passed out to local needy families in Upper St. Clair and the surrounding area. A portion of the money was also used toward the MS Bike-a-thon, to support a wellness fund to be used to help our own students and their families throughout the year, and to support charities designated by Fort Couch Student Council.

High SchoolBeth Erlanger, PTSO President

The USC High School and PTSO provided a number of ac-tivities and services for high school students and faculty in the 2010-11 academic school year. The PTSO provided: a monetary gift to the school for the Mentor Program; four $250 book schol-arships to selected seniors whose parents were PTSO members; a creative writing workshop conducted by Marc Harshman, author, poet, and storyteller; a faculty and staff appreciation luncheon; flip video recorders for classroom use through the Apples for Students program; a tri-monthly online newsletter; as well as innumerable service hours assisting in the counseling office, greeting visiting college representatives, and chaperoning trips and dances. n


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2011 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame

2011 USCHS Halls of Fame

(Year in parentheses indicates year of USCHS graduation)

Daniel CafaroAmy Balsinger

Matthew Mehaffey

Alicia Avick Michael Barnard

Michelle Boss Catucci Nicholas BeckRobert MacWhinnie

Athletic Hall of Fame

Arts Hall of FameAcademic Hall of Fame

Eight of Upper St. Clair’s finest were honored on Friday, September 30 at the 12th anniversary of the Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame. The newest members of the Halls of Fame were individually recognized during the pre-game festivities before the Upper St. Clair football game against Baldwin and during the first annual Homecoming Gala held at St. Clair Country Club on Saturday, October 1.

It is with great pride that we welcome the following inductees of the 2011 Upper St. Clair High School Halls of Fame and hold in esteem the 218 honorees recognized before them.

AcademicStudent Alumni Honorees

Alicia Avick (1997)Michael Barnard (1997)

Michelle Boss Catucci (1998)

Administrative/Staff HonoreesNicholas Beck

ArtsStudent Alumni HonoreesMatthew Mehaffey (1993)

AthleticsStudent Alumni Honorees

Amy Balsinger (1996)Daniel Cafaro (2005)

Robert MacWhinnie (2001)

Enjoying pre-game festivities at the inductee ceremony

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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 102Bethel Park, PA 15102

412/831-3373Fax: 412/831-3777

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 DateBaker ........................................................................................................ Tuesday, February 21Eisenhower .........................................................................................Wednesday, February 22Streams ..................................................................................................Thursday, February 23Times for all .......................................................................................... 9-11 a.m., noon-2 p.m.

A special evening session for all elementary schools will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 6-8 p.m. at the School District Central Office. It is not necessary that the student accompany the parent to registration.

Readiness EvaluationSchool 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 PacketsRegistration packets will be available at each elementary school beginning February

13, 2012. Parents are encouraged to pick them up during school hours and return the completed forms at the time of registration.

School Health Immunization RegulationsThe 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:

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 im-munized, 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.

4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after the • fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose after • the fourth birthday); 3 doses if series started after seven years of age3 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

Kindergarten NewsKindergarten News

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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

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Jimcor Associates, Inc. Suburban Dry Cleaners

Timothy Kerr, DMD & TEC Marketing & Entertainment

Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent.

Larry E. Manalo, DMD Wininsky Law Offices

Pediatric Alliance Xcoal Energy Resources


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Amy L. McGarrity, MD

Kimberly M. Pezzone, MD

Edwin B. King, MD

Debra M. Faber, MD

Mark M. Blatter, MD

Whitney L. Boyle, PA-C

Kristin L. Koontz, PA-C

412-221-2121

New Patients Welcome•Electronic Medical Records•Saturday Morning Hours; Evening Hours; •Monday thru Saturday walk-in hours available•24/7 On-Call•Pediatric and Adolescent specialists•In Office Lab•In-office medication dispensing Coming Soon•

“Exceptional Care for Your Children, Confidence and Convenience for You.”

St. Clair Division

LARRY E. MANALO, D.M.D.General Dentist & Prostodontic Specialist

Quality Gentle Dentistry for the entire family!

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412-221-2221

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412-343-4100

Graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.Proud resident of Upper St. Clair. Provider of most major insurance plans.

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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.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today!

Orthodontic services for children •and adults

Individualized care in a •friendly and patient-focused environment

Convenient appointment hours, •including Saturday mornings

24-hour emergency services•

Most major insurance plans •accepted

Pinebridge Commons location:1580 McLaughlin Run Road, Suite 200Upper St. Clair, PA 15241412-221-0392

Bethel Park location:2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100Bethel Park, PA 15102412-831-2188

Office hours are Monday through Friday. Evening appointments are available.

Our primary goal is to give your child positive memories that instill

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Timothy J. Kerr, D.M.D.Romana Pautler Kerr, D.M.D.

412-257-4250 Pinebridge Commons Suite 207

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Private Party and Banquet Room

Al Fresco Dining

Expanded Dining Room

Northern Italian Restaurant“Come visit with the little one”

Reservations suggested Gift Certificates available

Phone (412) 257-1880 Fax (412) 257-2895

1580 McLaughlin Run Rd., Upper St. Clair, PA 15241Visit our website: www.piccolinas.com

Hoilday party reservations now being accepted

Received the Trib Media Gold Awardas the Most Romantic Restaurant in the Southwest



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Mark R. HamiltonWard 2Day 412-831-9000Evening 412-478-28122013*

Russell R. Del ReWard 5Day 412-831-9000Evening 412-287-90762011*

Daniel R. PaolyAt-LargeDay 412-831-9000Evening 412-862-59952013*

Glenn R. DandoyVice President,At-LargeDay 412-831-9000Evening 412-973-92602011*

Mark D. ChristieWard 4Day 412-831-90002013*

Robert W. OrchowskiPresident, Ward 3Day 412-831-9000Evening 412-854-18682011*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Preston W. ShimerWard 1Day 412-831-9000Evening 412-221-17362011*

Township Commissioners

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.

Highlights of the Board of Commissioners Meetings

June 6, 2011Approximately 36 people attended.

Recognitions and Proclamations• Commissioner Christie presented a Proclamation to Victoria

Lazur of Scout Troop 50443, recognizing her attainment of Gold Award for organizing and initiating a project with her rowing mates to replace plastic water bottles with alumi-num water bottles during the Crew races. This project led Victoria to organize a recycling program in her community for the Scholastic Springs Regatta at Moraine State Park.

• Commissioner Orchowski presented a Proclamation to Patricia Palazzolo, USC School District Gifted Education Coordinator for grades 7-12 and Team Ouroboros Coach, for the achievement of Team Ouroboros capturing the National Science Award at the 2011 Pete Conrad Spirit of Innovation Awards.

• Commissioner Orchowski presented Proclamations to Team Ouroboros members Yudi Chen, Kate Groschner, Brent Heard, Avisha Shah, and Matt Vernacchia for captur-ing the National Science Award for the development and design of their aerospace invention, the Perpetual Harvest Space Nutrition System, at the 2011 Pete Conrad Spirit of Innovation Awards.

• Commissioner Dandoy presented a Certificate of Achieve-ment to Head Coach Emil Deliere for the USCHS wrestling team’s 2010-11 successes. Mr. Deliere also accepted a Cer-tificate of Achievement for Mackenzie McGuire who was not in attendance.

The Board• Approved modifications to applicant’s plan Re. PLC11-

0002–South Hills Village Mall Redevelopment–Tentative Nonresidential Planned Development.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1523 Re. Transfer of Liquor License–631 Painters Run Road.

• Continued public hearing Re. PLC11-0003–Fair Acres PRD Plan–Tentative Approval to the Regular Board of Commis-sioners’ Meeting of July 5, 2011.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1524 to establish public hearing date Re. PLC11-1302–Zoning Text Amendment Re. Elec-tronic Message Center Signs.

Approval of Contracts• Approved the following contracts in accordance with the

Township Code: A&H Equipment Company, Bridgeville ‣One Accubrine Automated Brine Maker with Control Panel and Installation ...................................... $78,500

(COSTARS Program Price) CleanNet Systems of Pennsylvania, Inc., Pittsburgh ‣Interim Custodial Services Contract ... $20,871.67/month

July 5, 2011Approximately 52 people attended.

Recognitions and Proclamations• Commissioner Shimer presented Proclamations to the

USCHS Odyssey of the Mind Division II Team for winning the Ranatra Fusca award and capturing first place in their division and problem, Le Tour Guide, at World Finals at the University of Maryland on May 27-30, 2011. Coach Susan Rosati and team members Paul Austin, Marissa Bowman, Erin Perelstine, Chloe Roberts, Kelsey Roberts, Anna Rosati, and Alexa Schlein were recognized.

• Commissioner Shimer presented Proclamations to Boyce Middle School Odyssey of the Mind Division II Team for winning the Ranatra Fusca award and capturing sixth place in their division and problem, Good as Gold…berg, at World Finals. Coach Sharon Byrnes and team mem-bers Brendan Allen, Connor Byrnes, Liam Carse, Arushi Kewalramani, Abigail Shoemaker, and Vicki Wang were recognized.

The Board• Tabled the public hearing Re. PLC11-0003–Fair Acres PRD

Plan–Tentative Approval, to the August 1, 2011, Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting.

• Adopted Decision USC-PD 1-2011 Re. PLC11-0002–South Hills Village Mall Redevelopment.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1525 establishing the date of September 6, 2011, for the public hearing on the proposed amendment to Chapter 130 of the Code of the Township, entitled “Zoning,” to Permit Mixed Use Development as a Conditional Use in the SB, Special Business District.

Approval of Contracts• Approved the following contracts in accordance with the

Township code: CleanNet Systems of Pennsylvania, Inc., Pittsburgh ‣Three-year Custodial Services for Municipal Building, Public Works Building, Volunteer Fire Station, and Recreation Building........................................ $216,000

Martins Maintenance, East Providence, RI ‣Three-year Custodial Services for the Community & Recreation Center (C&RC) and The Outdoor Classroom ...................................................... $381,072

August 1, 2011Approximately 17 people attended.

The Board• Adopted Decision USC-PRD 2-2011 Re. PLC11-0003–Fair

Acres PRD Plan–Tentative Approval.• Continued public hearing Re. PLC11-0005–Wesley

Academy–Educational Challenge Course to the Regular Board Meeting of September 6, 2011.

• Adopted Bill No. 3-11 to grant preliminary and final subdivi-sion approval to South Hills Village Mall Redevelopment Plan for Target, located at South Hills Village Mall, subject to certain conditions.

• Adopted Bill No. 4-11 to grant final approval to the South Hills Village Mall Redevelopment Phase 1, to renovate the existing Boscov’s building for Target on the first level and Dick’s Sporting Goods on Levels 2 and 3, a reconfiguration of the parking lot, and a reconfiguration of the entrance at the Macy’s end, subject to certain conditions.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1527 to approve the plan revision for new land development (planning module) for PLC11-0007–South Hills Village Mall Redevelopment Phase 1.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1528 approving the 2012-2016 Capital Improvement Program, which includes the “amend-ed” Exhibit A to include the addition of $126,000 to Park & Field Improvements, Boyce Mayview Barn Improvement/Demolition.

August 11, 20111 Attendee

Approval of Contract• Approved the following contract in accordance with the

Township Code: Arch Masonry, Inc., Upper St. Clair ‣Masonry work for the Veterans Monument Park .............................. $188,000


USC Veterans ParkLocal dignitaries, elected officials, township residents,

and a number of veterans gathered for a July groundbreaking cer-emony for the construction of Upper St. Clair’s Veterans Park. Lanny Frattare emceed the ceremony, the Upper St. Clair High School Band performed, and USCHS social studies teacher and U.S. Army veteran Keera Dwulit was the keynote speaker.

The monument, which is expected to be completed this November, is located along McLaughlin Run Road near the Municipal Building. Each station in the park is dedicated to one of the seven branches of the armed forces—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, and National Guard. Design services were donated by Graves & McLean, architects.

The park serves multiple purposes: honoring our veterans, educating Upper St. Clair students and visitors to the park about the branches of the armed forces and their history, beautifying the McLaughlin Run corridor, and providing a place for peaceful reflec-tion by visitors to the park. n

Upper St. Clair Veterans Park, Inc. is a charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the

Internal Revenue Code. For additional information or to contribute, visit www.uscveteranspark.org.

Visit the Township’s website: www.twpusc.org

2011-12 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. •

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.•

Sanitary Sewer Backups AND your

homeowner’s coverageThe 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 InsuranceHomeowners 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.

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www.twpusc.orgWinter Storm EmergenciesSome considerations regarding the

snow removal services that you receive as a resident of USC include:

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

2. Air Science Consultants are contracted to the Township and available on a 24-hour 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.

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.

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

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

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

6. The Township cannot recommend contractors or companies that provide private snow removal. Please refer to the Verizon Yellow Pages.

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

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

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


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TPublic Works Introduces Liquids into the Snow Fighting OperationGeorge Kostelich, Jr., Director of Public Works

Although rock salt (sodium chloride) is, and will continue to be, the primary deicing material used to combat snow and ice in Upper St . Clair, the Public Works Department will be adding salt brine to its ar-senal in the Township’s continuing efforts to become more efficient and environmentally responsible in its road deicing efforts.

Salt brine is a mixture of sodium chloride (rock salt) and water placed together in a brine processor to produce a brine solu-tion consisting of 23.3% sodium chloride. In 2011, the Public Works Department purchased a salt brine production unit that will allow the Department to produce brine on site to meet demand. With the newly purchased equipment, Public Works will have the ability to manufacture approxi-mately 5000 gallons of brine in a one-hour time period.

One ton of rock salt will make 5000 gal-lons of salt brine. Once produced, the brine is transferred to 5000-gallon vertical storage tanks where it will eventually be loaded into the individual tanks located on the trucks. Each snow removal truck is equipped with a poly tank capable of carrying 35-100 gallons of liquid material that will be applied to the rock salt in the pre-wet process. Currently, one truck is equipped with a poly tank capable of carrying 750 gallons of liquid material that will be applied directly to the paving by a spraybar in the anti-icing pro-cess. The Public Works Department expects to be able to produce salt brine solution for approximately .07 cents per gallon at current rock salt prices and expects to use at least 1150 gallons of brine per “normal” deicing effort.

Once produced, this salt brine product is applied to the roadways in two ways; the first is a “pre-wet” application in which the liquid is sprayed over the rock salt as it is spread from the truck; the second is an “anti-icing” application in which the salt brine is applied directly to the road surface by a spraybar at-tached to a tank and mounted on the truck. Typically, the “anti-icing” process will take place just before an upcoming storm in which the brine solution is applied directly to the pavement to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement, keeping the roadway free of snow and ice longer at the beginning of a severe storm or light snow, and allowing traffic to move about as crews respond to the event.

This desired reduction in rock salt usage will ultimately benefit our environment, reduce labor costs, and reduce equipment costs.

In lower temperatures, this new equip-ment will allow Public Works to blend in calcium chloride at a prescribed percentage to the “pre-wet” process to provide much more effective melting action during sub 20-degree temperatures when soduim chloride (rock salt) is less effective.

Even with all of the technology Public Works and other agencies are afforded, good ol’ Mother Nature still rules! At times, deal-ing with challenging travel conditions will require patience and common sense, while Public Works uses all of its tools to help make the roadways safe again for travel. n

Proven advantages of “pre-wetting” with salt brine:

Rock salt can be spread more uni-• formly, resulting in less salt wasted on roadsides and shoulders.Materials adhere to the pavement • surface after being wet, and salt saturated with brine will have reduced bounce, leaving more salt on the roadway.Melting action is accelerated be-• cause liquid is added to the salt. (Rock salt must first find moisture before it can begin to work.)When dry materials are mixed • with brine, application rates may be reduced as much as 20-30%, resulting in a dry material cost savings.

Proven advantages of anti-icing with salt brine:

Application prior to a storm can • help prevent snow and ice from bonding to pavement.Helps keep roadway wet longer • while crews respond to weather-related conditions.Makes cleanup quicker.• Helps reduce equipment needs and • labor hours.

Brine station control panel Brine processor

Anti-icing unit


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To some degree, it seems as though recycling has been around forever. Over half a century ago, items were recycled because there was a need for the valuable resources at hand. The demand for some items exceeded the availability of many of the raw materials, so recycling was a good economic decision as well. In many cases the cost to recycle products proved to be less than processing new products from the stream of raw material.

This was especially true during the World War II effort. Many metals and materials were recycled and diverted from everyday products to the making of tanks and guns to supply our troops. It was not uncommon to see recycle vendors solicit-ing neighborhoods to collect old clothing, rags, iron, and all sorts of metals. Over the course of decades, all of these recyclables have had value in our society.

Cans and steel containers loaded via a magnet crane

Bales of mixed plastic containers

Material for recycling loaded onto truck

Recycling CompetitionThe Recycling Competition of 2011

is coming to an end. Eleven South Hills communities were engaged in this friendly effort to increase the awareness of recycling. The winners of the competition will enjoy bragging rights for having successfully ac-cumulated the most residential tonnage and/or the highest percent of increase of recycled items over 2010 numbers. Based on the resi-dential municipal carrier tonnage collected for the year, it does not include e-waste or sensitive document shredding.

There is a good chance that the competi-tion will continue to 2012. So let’s get ready to give our best for another go-round. You can find recycling competition informa-tion on the USC Public Access channel via Comcast or Verizon or you can visit www.twpusc.org to get this and other Township-related information.

Food for ThoughtSymbols for recycling are actually Mobius

loops comprising three changing arrows used to form a triangle.

This Mobius loop was de-signed by Gary Anderson, a 23-year-old-college student in the late 1960s to 1970.

The design was the winning entry for an art contest sponsored by a Chicago-based recycled pa-perboard company to raise environmental awareness amongst high schools and colleges across the country. *

* Source: Wikipedia.com

Recycling—Get on Board!Ron Sarrick, Buildings/Grounds and Sustainability Administrator

Incineration, a controlled high tempera-ture burning process that eliminates bulk and which has gone on for ages, reduced the size of the content to a fraction of its former size. The remains became another by-product which needed to be further handled. An adaption of this process now creates electricity from the harnessed en-ergy that heat releases. The negative effect, however, is that byproduct particulates produced during incineration become airborne.

The other waste disposal option to get rid of unwanted debris is to pack trash in the ground via landfills. There would be plenty of land that could be used for compacting waste as the need presented or, perhaps, not. Locating potential landfill sites is difficult, as property around urban areas available for this activity is scarce. Government regulations further reduce the possibility of acquiring fill space. Appar-ently, there is not as much willingness to give access and create these waste areas as

However, after the war we morphed into a disposable or “throw-away” society where products were mostly inexpensive imports and substitute materials that were less durable. America now needed a place to get rid of damaged or worn items that began to clutter our homes and country-side. The constant stream of cups, drink containers, cartons, crates, dispensers, paper, and cardboard—the list could go on for pages—created a need for a better method of retrieving useful materials from the stream of waste.

Inexpensive goods flooded the market. Manufacturers began to use less durable materials to cut product costs, which also became a bargain for the end user. Plastics, vinyl, and fiberglass entered almost all sectors of manufacturing. Items that were once made of steel, metal, or wood could be molded using any of these other materials as a less expensive alternative.

The end user’s dollar went further and it became commonplace to opt for less du-rable, less expensive good, thus giving up durability for a cheaper product. Initially, items became so inexpensive that consum-ers didn’t hesitate to make repeat purchases of the same product, as “normal” wear and tear was no longer normal.

Enter the problem of how to dispose of the new stream of unwanted debris. We shifted more toward incineration and landfills and all the pollution and rubble that cheaply designed items brought to our thriving economy.


E-Waste Event in USCOn Saturday, September 10, USC held an e-waste and sensitive document

destruction event, giving residents a chance to rid their homes of unwanted items while helping the environment. n

USC Pays Tribute to Our Public Works EmployeesUpper St. Clair Township residents generally have high ex-

pectations. And Upper St. Clair Township’s Public Works Department delivers! Meeting our needs and often exceeding our expectations are the many employees of Public Works. Give them a wave, a smile, and a warm “hello” when you see them around the Township, taking care of our community and always providing that extra helping hand. n

first thought. Regulation and public pressure have a lot to do with this position.

And there is always the question: What can be done with the land afterward? Con-sidering this question should inspire us to be more in tune with recycling.

Face the reality. Some of us find recycling challenging, while others view it as a mild inconvenience. The residential recycling movement has been going on in our area for about 30 years. Yet, we are still not as effective at it as we should be. Now is as good of a time as any to minimize our trash and make efforts to increase our recycling habits!

So, where does all this lead? Increasing our commitment to recycling makes us more committed to use items that will never see a landfill and can be reused in our everyday lives. It also defines us as a community of people willing to do what it takes to be more considerate of our environment. This is just another small step in creating a better place for us to live. Won’t you give your best effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle? n

USC Township Public Works administration staff, left to right, are Rich Botz, Char Adams,

Dave Kutschbach, Ron Sarrick, Dan Flatz, Cathie Scudiero, Gary Schafer, and Debbi Yelich

Another load hits the feeding table.Truck at the USC lot

USC resident awaits her certificate of disposal.

USC resident disposes of e-waste.

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USC Township Public Works maintenance crew, left to right, are Mike Inks, Mark Stalter, Walt Donaldson, Jimmy Stewart, Tom Welsh, Piero Pasquarelli, Ted Harms, Jim Kane, Don Echtler, Jason Hirt, Dale Harris, Jeff Otto, Nick Medvid, Mike Moore, Ken Churney, and Tom Skiba. Missing from photo are Jeff Charlier,

Mike Deferio, Butch Hagan, Bill Pinto, Gary Pitchok, and Gary Vodzak.

As 2011 comes to a close, The Outdoor Classroom would like to share some ways that you can continue to enjoy the outdoors in Boyce Mayview Park or your own favorite park and beat the cabin fever that we all know is bound to come as the weather cools!

There are so many things to love about autumn! The mild weather, beautiful leaves, holidays, and fun festivals make it a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking on your own or as a group, The Outdoor Classroom has many family-friendly opportunities for you to explore the outdoors as autumn nears its end.

There are two Moonstruck Full Moon Hikes left in 2011 and both will prove to be wonderful events. The Moonstruck hikes are a great way to experience nature after dark under the light of a full moon. Classroom staff will cover various topics rang-ing from nighttime creatures to astronomy and folklore. Don’t worry, Moonstruck hikes for 2012 dates will be posted on the website soon!

Speaking of The Outdoor Classroom’s website, be sure to keep your eyes open for a brand new look coming early 2012 to www.TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org with new features and photos! Will you be one of our enthusiastic outdoorsman faces on the website or our Facebook page? Don’t forget to check!

Were you noticed at this year’s third annual Bounty of Boyce Mayview Park Fall Fest on November 12? Hopefully you joined in on a guided hike, decorated pumpkins, and made fall-themed recycled crafts in the Learning Lab or played around and took photos on the interactive hay structure. Or were you at the Community & Recreation Center for the pumpkin plunge, baking contest, face painting, balloon animals, and cider tasting?

As the autumn colors fade and winter blows in, we know it’s not the first season that comes to mind when we think of outdoor activities, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy nature this coming season. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing on the trails at Boyce Mayview Park are great ways to stay physically active and outdoors in the winter.

For those who enjoy natural history, this time of year is a great time to learn tree identification by bark. Shagbark Hickory, Black Cherry, Sycamore, and Hackberry are just a few tree

species that are easily identifiable by their bark. Even though the lack of leaves during the colder seasons makes plant identification a new challenge, the lack of foliage is great for bird watching.

Whether you’re a novice birder or someone who has their very own life list of birds they’ve seen, you can always learn more about common winter birds at the Talk-n-Walk: Winter Bird-ing on Sunday, December 4. The workshop is also a great way to hone your skills to take part in the annual Pittsburgh South Hills Bird Circle Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, December 17, led by the Upper St. Clair Citizens for Land Stewardship. No need to be an avid birder to help out. You can join The Outdoor Classroom and other groups of experienced birders and learn as you help scientists compile migration and over wintering

data on a variety of bird spe-cies. The cost of $5 per person goes directly to the Audubon Society. All participants will receive a national bird count report using data collected by people just like you!

When the snow starts to pile up and children (and parents) become restless, The Outdoor Classroom will offer two wonderful ways to get your youngsters up and out of the house, expending some energy. On Saturday, February 25, The Outdoor Classroom will offer two great winter programs for young girls. The Winter Fun Day for Brownie Girl Scouts and interested girls in second and third

grade takes the scouts on a fun winter hike while they work on completing their Senses Try-It. The Frosty Fun Day for Junior Girl Scouts and interested girls in grades four and five involves snow art and a snowless snowball fight while the scouts complete their Frosty Fun Badge. Both programs include a participation patch from The Outdoor Classroom. Don’t forget to bring your mugs for a warm treat!

So when it comes to spending time outside, The Outdoor Classroom finds it hard to pick a favorite time of year. Each season offers something fresh and exciting to experience. Enjoy this winter season here at The Outdoor Classroom and elsewhere, too. Happy hiking! n

Winter campers on the floodplain


Beating Cabin Fever at The Outdoor ClassroomLauren Brush and Jessica Kester

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Praying Mantis egg case—easy to find during the winter!

The cardinal

Building an igloo

www.TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org


TWinter PruningGary Schafer, Parks and Forestry AdministratorWinter is a great time to get back outside and

continue to landscape your yard. This is the dormant growing season for the trees and shrubs in your landscape gardens, and it offers an optimal time to safely prune those plants. With proper pruning techniques you can dramatically improve the look of your landscape and reduce potential safety issues of branch fail-ure. Most trees and shrubs respond well to pruning during the plants dormant growing season, which, in our area, is November through March.

Pesky insects that run the risk of plaguing your trees with terminal diseases have become less active and found a place to lie dormant for the cold winter. For example, the Nitidulid beetle is attracted to the fresh sap of your oak tree when pruned during the growing season. This insect is a major vector in the spread of Oak Wilt, a highly contagious and rapidly spreading terminal disease. Under certain moisture and temperature conditions, compact masses of spore-producing fungal material known as “spore mats” are sometimes formed on oak trees that have been killed by Oak Wilt. The Nitidulid beetles visit the sweet smell of the spore mats and carry the Oak Wilt fungus from tree to tree. Once your tree has become infected with Oak Wilt, there is nothing that can be done to save it. Other healthy oak trees in the surrounding area become at risk of attracting the disease due to the inter-connection of the roots grafted together. By properly pruning your oak trees in the winter months, your tree is less susceptible to attracting this insect, which, too, is not actively moving around from tree to tree. The proper pruning of the oak tree also improves the structural stability of the tree and reduces the risk of summer storm damage, thus making your tree less vulnerable to attracting the disease.

Other tree considerations of winter pruning would be to inspect your plants along the roadways. Pruning your trees along the roadways allows for the safe passage of vehicles and pedestrians on the streets. Once the leaves have fallen from your trees, it is a little easier to see where to prune the branches that extend into the road ways, causing safety concerns. Pruning your plants along the roadways reduces potential damage to school bus lights, salt and delivery vehicle mirrors, garbage truck ob-structions, private vehicles, and personal injury along sidewalks from encroaching tree limbs.

Trees that extend over the roadway are required to be main-tained at a minimum of 13 feet of vertical clearance above the edge of the road to ensure the safe passage for vehicles. Evergreens should not extend over the roadway. Sidewalks should have an eight foot clearance. The recommended method to remove tree limbs or uplift the crown is to cut the limbs at the branch collar close to the trunk.

Happy pruning! n

Let my over 25 years of experience go to work for you.

• 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

[email protected]

Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS

Howard Hanna - USC Office180 Fort Couch RoadUpper St. Clair, PA 15241


Adult DepartmentFocus on India

Join in for a fascinating look at India; its culture, customs, and cuisine. Terry Jeggle, visiting professor at the University

of Pittsburgh, and Maneesha Kumar-Cleetus will lead this two-part series. To register, call the library.Thursday, December 1, 7-8:30 p.m.Thursday, December 8, 1-3:30 p.m.

Computer Furniture Upgrade Planned

Library patron computers on the adult floor are moving to a new home! Wonderful new computer furniture is being installed soon which will greatly increase the amount of space available at each station. A new lo-cation will also eliminate the glare created by the win-dows where the computers are currently stationed.

G r o u p e d around core towers, which supply clutter-free power and data to each set of tables, the hexagonal units make efficient use of floor space. A pneumatic high adjustment on one will enable a lower height or standing height work surface as needed.

Installation is planned for November.

Email the LibraryGive us your email address!We’ll send you:An email when your hold is ready• Courtesy reminders three days before • your items are dueNotification when items become over-• dueYou can also opt into a new e-newsletter

service providing alerts about upcoming library programs and events. Simply reply to register! You can add an email address to your account online yourself or stop at any service desk and library staff will add your email address to your account information.

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Harmony: Mind, Body Spirit Concert

The year of events associated with the library’s collection of Harmony materials ended with a grand finale concert by the musical group Life in Balance. Crystal bowls and flutes were combined with new age technology to create a soundscape of vibrational energy. Thanks to the Friends of the Library who underwrote the cost of this concert.

Adult Summer Reading 2011—Novel Destinations

The highlight of this past summer’s adult program was the ice cream social end of Summer Reading gala held at the Community Center on McLaughlin Run Road. An overflow crowd of all ages enjoyed ice cream sundaes and listened to music by members of the Pittsburgh Banjo Club. Both the entertainment and refreshments were underwritten by Friends of the Library of Upper St. Clair.

Adult summer reading participants who turned in tickets as they read books were eligible to enter drawings for five bags of country-themed prizes.

The lucky drawing winners, left to right, were Janice Kincaid, Marjorie Thomas, Susan Balukin, Joan Smith, and Janet Norkus

Ami Scuilli, playing the crystal bowls

Steve Scuilli, with the electronic flute

The audience feels the vibrations.


Conversation Salon-Discussion GroupBecome an active participant in the larger world around you, develop the skills

of good conversation, and connect with others in your community. That’s what the Conversation Salon-Discussion Group is all about! Each discussion group is a unique mix of personalities. Members of the group select the subjects they wish to discuss. Topics are drawn from diverse sources such as current events, social and cultural issues, politics, ethics, entertainment, and science and technology. Participants don’t argue or debate, but rather listen respectfully to the thoughts and opinions of others. There’s no preparation necessary. Listen if you wish. Talk if you like. Everyone is welcome!

The Conversation Salon-Discussion Group meets the first Friday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon, in the Library Multipurpose Room. Call the library for more information.

Examples of topics previously discussed include:

How can we improve public schools?• Is marriage still necessary today?• How are global warming and other envi-• ronmental issues impacting the world?Is there a difference between wisdom and • knowledge?Is the family growing weaker or stronger, • and why?What makes life happy, satisfying, and • meaningful?

USCconnectCan’t get out to the li-

brary? A new USC service, USCconnect, is in the de-velopment stages to deliver library materials to your door, including regular and large print books, audio books, and DVDs.

You are eligible for delivery service if you have a short- or long-term illness, a senior non-driver status, a physical challenge, or a visual disability. Examples of people who might use this service are a pregnant woman on bed rest, a person with a broken leg, or a person undergoing treatment for a serious illness.

Call the library at 412-835-5540 and ask for Diane or Helen:if you have questions,• if you would like to volunteer to deliver materials to a USC resident requesting • this service, orto name someone who might need this service.•

Monthly Activities Meeting Dates(Activities are held in the Library Multipurpose Room, unless otherwise stated.)

Conversation Salon-Discussion •GroupFirst Friday of each month10 a.m.-noon

Cooks Book Group•First Wednesday of each month7-8 p.m., Library’s second floor.

Global, Issues•Third Wednesday of each month10-11:30 a.m.

Library Ladies Book Group•Fourth Tuesday of each month7-8 p.m.

Men’s Book Group•First Tuesday of each month7-8 p.m.

Mystery Readers Book Group•Third Thursday of each month2-3 p.m.

Yarn Works!•Second and fourth Saturday of each month10 a.m.-noon, Library’s second floor

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

November 14: • Meditation, presented by Dorit Brauer, certified reflexologist and guided imagery teacherDecember 1:• Focus on India (Part one): culture, customs and history, presented by Terry Jeggle, visiting pro-fessor at the University of PittsburghDecember 3:• Silk Painting for the Holidays, presented by Colleen Miles, USC librarian (10 a.m.-noon)December 8:• Focus on India (Part two): Indian dining, food prep, and sampling, presented by Maneesha Kumar-Cleetus (1-3:30 p.m.)December 5:• Yoga: History and Ex-planation, presented by Gary Carlisle, registered yoga instructor

Adult Department

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If you have an apple and I have an apple

and we exchange these apples, then you and I

will still have one apple. But if you have an idea

and I have an idea and we exchange these ideas, then each of us will have two ideas.

–George Bernard Shaw


Kids Department

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Don’t Wait for Summer—Sign Up for a Winter Reading Program

Be a Smart Cookie—Read!Students K-2 are invited to join our sweet winter

reading program “Be a Smart Cookie.” When you sign up you will receive a game card to complete with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver.

Follow the instructions found on each cookie of the game board. For every five cookies you complete, you will get a paper cookie to add to our cookie jar. Complete all 20 squares and you’ll receive a sweet treat.

Winter Reading begins Wednesday, January 4.

Family Battle of the BooksIt’s time for the sixth annual Family Battle of the Books.

Teams of kids in third and fourth grades and a parent read books, and then gather at the library for a question and answer style competition. Teams play for individual points, and in more recent years, school glory. Last year saw Streams Elementary School sweeping the competition. This year it could be your turn to bring the prize to your school!

Families may begin registering on Monday, January 16 at the library. Each member of the team will read the ten books selected for the program. Teams will receive the official book list at the time of registration. The registration period will last until Friday, February 3. Teams will have until the date of the Battle to read all ten books. This year’s Family Battle of the Books will occur on Monday, March 5 at 6 p.m. in the Library Multipurpose Room 1, located on the first floor.

Teen Battle of the BooksThe Teen Battle of the Books, for kids in seventh through 11th

grades, pits teen against teen in a showdown of ultimate book knowledge.

Teams of two teens may begin registering on Monday, January 16 at the library. Each member of the team will read the five books selected for the program. Teams will receive the official book list at the time of registration. The registration period will last until Friday, February 3. Teams will have until the date of the Battle to read all five books. This year’s Teen Battle of the Books will occur on Monday, March 12 at 6 p.m. in the Children’s Library.

Teen Reader’s TheaterHello everyone, my name is Ms. Sheri, and I work in the

Children’s Department of the Upper St. Clair Library. For several years now, I have been working with my co-worker, Ms. Colleen, on a Teen Reader’s Theater group. Based upon feedback from last year’s participants, we have chosen to perform Macbeth and Hamlet. We had such fun with last year’s Shakespearian comedies that the kids decided they wanted to try their hands at some trag-edies. The scripts chosen are shortened and simplified for this age group. This program will run for five weeks beginning on either

January 16 or January 19 and ends on either February 13 or February 16. (The start date/end date will depend upon whether your kid(s) will be working with me on Monday evenings or with Ms. Colleen on Thursday evenings.) Final performances of the plays will take place at area assisted living facilities with performance dates to be determined.

Budding thespians in grade five or higher are invited to join Ms. Colleen and me for this fun and exciting program. We are looking for kids who are interested in acting. Scripts in hand dur-ing all practices and the final performances will allow the kids to hone their read-aloud skills. A behind the scenes option is also available for help with set design and building. There’s an option for everyone to participate!

Registration begins Wednesday, January 4, 2012.

Dear Librarian,

Will my child like reading nonfiction

books? He doesn’t seem to be a fan of

fiction. Interested Parent

Dear Parent,

I often recommend nonfiction books to kids who tell me they don’t

like to read fiction. Nonfiction books present facts and information

about subjects, places, and events. Kids have limited life experiences

and nonfiction books are a great resource for extending their

experiences and knowledge. We have nonfiction books for kids of all

ages and reading abilities.

Start by selecting books on topics that interest your child.

Today’s nonfiction is very approachable. Most books are beautifully

illustrated with photographs or pictures. Consider your child’s age and

reading level when selecting an appropriate book.

Easy nonfiction picture books can be read about favorite subjects

like trucks, dinosaurs, and dance. Easy nonfiction is suggested for

kids from pre-school through third grade and juvenile nonfiction is

suggested for fourth through eighth grades. Nonfiction books in our

reader collections are great for new readers in first and second grades.

Hope to see you and your kids browsing the nonfiction shelves the

next time you visit the library.

Sincerely,Debra Conn, Your Librarian

Participants in Teen Reader’s Theatre


Kids Department

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Winter Programs for KidsRegistration for winter programs begins Wednesday, January 4. Programs begin the week of January 16 and run through February 24.

Babies & ToddlersChildren ages 4 to 24 months with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver

Mondays at 10 or 11 a.m.Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

Twos & ThreesChildren 2 to 3 ½ years of age with a parent, grandparent, or caregiver

Tuesdays at 11 a.m.Wednesdays or Thursdays at 10 or 11 a.m.

Pre-School StorytimeChildren 3 ½, 4, or 5 years of age who are ready to spend a half hour on their own

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

Science & Math in the LibraryChildren 5 years of age or older who are not yet in first grade

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

Library ExplorersChildren who are currently in kindergarten

Tuesdays at 10 a.m. or 1:45 p.m.

BookTrek: Our Amazing WorldChildren in 1st-4th grades

Tuesdays at 4 p.m.Wednesdays at 4 p.m.

Beginning Chess with Eric BerthoudKids in 1st-8th grades accompanied by a parent

Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Kids Read at the LibraryIt was a great summer of reading at the library! Kids and

teens, 1425 of them, registered for one of three library reading programs: Reading Together, Summer Reading, and the new Teen Read. Thank you to all who contributed to these reading programs.

Library Summer Reading corporate and government supporters include: Friends of the Upper St. Clair Township Library, Allegheny County (Wave Pool), Applebee’s, Ardolino’s Pizza, Carnegie Museum of Art and History, Carnegie Science Center, Chick-fil-A, Community and Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park, Donut Services Group, Inc., Eat’n Park Restaurant, Gateway Clipper Fleet, Learning Express Toys, Little Lake Theatre Company, Loafers, Pati Petite Cookies, Inc., Pepperoni’s, Phipps Conservatory, The Pittsburgh Children’s Museum, The Pittsburgh Pirates, The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, RAD, Red Robin, Rice Enterprises LLC (McDonald’s), Rita’s Italian Ice, Senator John Heinz History Center, Snapology, StonePepper’s Grill, and TGI Friday’s.

USC Township Library HoursMonday–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 23 and is closed on November 24 and November 25 (Thanksgiving); is closed December 24, December 25, and December 26 (Christmas); and closes at 1 p.m. on December 31, and is closed January 1 and January 2 (New Year’s).

www.twpusc.org/library 412-835-5540

USC Recreation and


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Live Smarter: Eating for a Healthy Body–Girls ages 12-17

Remember when you were a teenager and tried crazy diets with your friends? In-terested in teaching your teenage girl what healthy eating really means? Each session of this six-week class will help teenagers understand how to eat for a healthy body, dispel myths regarding fad diets, and build a positive body image. Three classes will also include a cooking demonstration and tasting.

Instructors: Lindsay Schmitz MS, RD, LDN, C&RC dietitian, Beth Ellis, cooking instructor, Young Chefs® Academy, and additional guest speaker

New! Athlete and Family Personal Training

The C&RC now offers both student athletes and families an opportunity to participate in personal training. Per-sonal training applications are available at the C&RC. To learn more, call 412-221-1099, ext. 619.

Family PromJoin in the fun with an event that was

a smashing success last year! Dress up for a night of fun and dancing, but most importantly to create memories that will last a lifetime. Art projects, a family photo, food, and music are included. Put on your dancing shoes and join us for a night to remember!Day/Date: Friday, February 10, 2012Time: 6:30–8:30 p.m.Place: C&RC Community RoomsFee: Call 412-221-1099 for more information.

C&RC Expands “Healthy Choices” for Our CommunityThe Community & Recreation Center has recently unveiled a variety of new active programs that highlight healthy

choices. To learn more about some of these programs see below, or about the C&RC and its wide range of offerings, visit www.livesmarterplayharder.org or call 412-221-1099.

Upcoming Events—Save the DateHoliday Mitten & Hat Donation

December 1-15

Holidays at the C&RC Saturday, December 3

New Year Wellness Fair Saturday, January 7

MLK Day of Service for Grades 1-6 Monday, January 16

Third annual Chili Golf Classic Saturday, January 28

Family Prom–Friday, February 10

Blood Drive–Tuesday, March 6

MLK Day of Service—Grades 1-6 See information on page 62.

Family Prom

Get Up and Go Challenge–Grades 3-5

Are you trying to stay active during the school year? The Get Up and Go Challenge is a great way to keep kids ac-tive. This program will allow participants to compete in fun fitness activities, in-cluding obstacle courses and team events. Along with the program sessions, the kids will be motivated to earn points for their team at home by making healthy eating choices, partaking in physical activity, and doing well in school. This program is a great way for parents to motivate their kids to stay healthy in all aspects of their lives while school is in session.

T’ai-Chi—Great for Seniors!T’ai-Chi Ch’uan is an ancient form

of Chinese exercise unlike any western exercise. T’ai-Chi unifies your mind and your body while using ancient principals in a series of movements. T’ai-Chi aids in developing patience, balance, coordina-tion, and concentration and is considered to be healing to many people. T’ai-Chi is suitable for anyone looking to improve his or her overall health. No prior experience required. Wear loose fitting clothes.

Offered Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-noon and Thursdays, 7-8 p.m.

Youth and Family KarateAs a holder of a seventh degree black

belt, chief instructor Chuck Kerrigan began his training in 1985 and currently owns and operates TKA of Pittsburgh. His primary program is teaching karate as it was meant to be taught—as an exercise and self-defense. But the driving force behind TKA is the desire to make participants feel better about themselves, both physically and mentally.

The C&RC now offers TKA karate classes for pre-schoolers through adults including Little Tigers, Family Karate, and Karate for Youth. Class goals are for students to each gain a sense of ac-complishment, a positive self-image, self-defense, and life skills.Little TigersIntroduction to karate–ages 4-6Day: ThursdayDate(s): Session II–December 1-January 26Time: 3:30–4 p.m.Family KarateAges 6 and up with parent or caregiverDay: WednesdayDate(s): November 30–January 25Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.Karate for YouthAges 7-12Day: ThursdayDate(s): Session I –December 1-January 26Time(s): 4:15-4:45 p.m.–white belt with stripes, 4:45-5:15 p.m.–beginners

To learn more about upcoming karate classes, visit the C&RC or call 412-221-1099.

Offerings for Older AdultsUSC Township’s Recreation

and Leisure Services Department offers many opportunities for older adults to be active and engaged.

Want some companionship and fun? There are many activities to choose from.

Luncheon and a program every • Wednesday at noon. The United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair meets at the Recreation Center on McLaughlin Run Road. There is no fee for Silver Card holders.Day trips to various places.• Game and Card Club, first Thursday of • the month, 1:30-3:30 p.m., in the C&RC. There is no fee for this program.Movie Day, third Thursday of the • month, 12:30 p.m., in the C&RC. There is no fee for this program.

In the mood for some physical activity? Try a class at the C&RC. Here are a few suggestions:

Senior Fit—a training class designed • to increase stamina, strength, range of motion, and muscular flexibilityFunctional Fitness Program—a lower • intensity, yet high quality, fitness class with a total body wellness approach

Zumba Gold—the latest exercise dance • craze, this class is designed for the older adult. No experience necessaryFrom the Aquatics Department—try • Water Walking, Aqua Motion, or a class offered by a certified instructor from the Arthritis FoundationWalking Club—meeting Mondays and • Thursdays, this group walks the indoor low-impact track, then gathers for coffee and social time. Coaching and seminars are offered.

Driver improvement classes are offered and presented by Seniors for Safe Driving. Pennsylvania insurance laws provide for at least a five percent discount on your automobile insurance premium upon suc-cessful completion of this course.

Is there something you’d like to see, or need more details about something listed here? Contact Amy Kerman, Older Adult Coordinator, at 412-221-1099, ext. 603 or at [email protected].

Leisure Services


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Gold CardOffered 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.

Silver CardOffered by USC Township to residents age 62

and retired or age 65 with no restrictions. Card admits holder to Municipal three-hole golf course, outdoor tennis facilities, and other activities free of charge. Applications at Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park.

ACCESS 65 PLUS is a shared-ride trans-portation 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.

Resources for Seniors

Celebrations!United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair announce upcoming special birthdays:

Liz Jawela–November 17Alfred Fiumara–December 1Betty Zhu–December 15Tom Atkins–December 21Jeannette Hitchens–December 25Youzhen Zhang–January 25Malinda Kelly–March 18

Kids Just Wanna Have Fun Holiday Camp

Have some fun while you’re home over winter break! Come to a holiday break camp to do all sorts of fun stuff. We’ll be romping indoors and out (weather permit-ting), swimming, doing arts and crafts, playing games, and having a great time. Pack a lunch—you’ll need the fuel for the afternoon of fun!

Days: Tuesday–FridayDates: December 27–December 30Times: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., ages 5-6 9 a.m.-3 p.m., ages 7-12Place: C&RC as postedFee: $60–C&RC member $65–Resident non-member $70–Surrounding community non-member

Give the Gift of Health Looking for a new holiday gift idea? C&RC gift cards are a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer! Gift cards can be used for all C&RC programs, personal train-ing, camps, swim lessons, day passes, memberships, and more!

Senior Walking ClubWalk for fitness! Improve your cardiovascular strength and balance; assist with weight control; decrease your risk for cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke; fight depression; improve sleep; and have more zest and energy! Walk with friends and meet new exercise buddies!

Open to 15 people, age 50 and up•Meets twice weekly; walk anytime •between 9:15-11 a.m.Coffee and social time available before •and after your walkClub meetings, and coaching and •seminars offered

Days: Mondays and Thursdays Session II: October 31–December 15

(no meeting November 24) Session III: January 2–February 23

(no meeting January 16) Session IV: February 27–April 19Time: 9:15-11 a.m.Place: C&RC lounge and trackAge Requirement: Adult, age 50 and upFee: $15Register: Visit the C&RC Administration

or Control Desk


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Administration/Township Manager412-831-9000, ext. 216

Community Development412-831-9000, ext. 501

Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 226Recreation – 412-221-1099

Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 271Public Works Hotline (Emergency After Hours)

412-833-7500Police Administration – 412-833-1113

Animal Control412-833-7500 or 724-941-7500

Tri-Community South EMS 412-831-3710

Volunteer Fire Department (Fire Station)412-835-0660

Library – 412-835-5540

Frequently Called NumbersCable 7 (Public Access Television)

412-831-1030Robert C. Wyda (District Justice)

412-835-1661League Of Women Voters

412-261-4284Post Office – 1-800-275-8777

School District – 412-833-1600South West Communities Chamber of

Commerce – 412-221-4100Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556

The Outdoor Classroom412-838-0064

Three-Hole Golf Course412-831-7556

USC Chamber of Commerce412-833-9111

Utilities & ServicesComcast Cable Communications

Sales, Service, and Billing1-800-266-2278

Allegheny Power – 1-800-255-3443Columbia Gas Company

724-416-6300Dominion People’s Gas Company

1-800-764-0111Equitable Gas Company

412-395-3050PA American Water Company

1-800-565-7292Verizon – 1-800-660-2215

Directory of Important Numbers

Police/Fire/AmbulanceEmergency

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

Monday - Friday

Upper St. Clair’s Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park continues to make an impact, not only within our community, but in recognition both region-ally and nationally, as well.

Pittsburgh Magazine recently recognized Upper St. Clair as one of its “Best of the Burbs” not only because of our award winning School District, but also for the facilities and pro-grams at the C&RC (http://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/Pittsburgh-Magazine/City-Guide/ August-2011/Best-of-the-Burbs/index.php?cparticle=3&siarticle=2#artanc).

The C&RC was featured in Aquatics International for adopting the modified Note & Float program for aquatic birthday parties, resulting in a significant drop in the number of water rescues and increasing water safety awareness among parents (http://www.aquaticsintl.com/2011/may/1105_rm.html).

The C&RC’s ADA compliance was recognized in the National Parks and Recreation Association Magazine (http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nrpa/201105/index.php#/64), and the C&RC was also featured in Athletic Business Magazine, the leading resource for athletic, fitness, and recreation professionals (http://athleticbusiness.com/galleries/project.aspx?id=477).

Paul Besterman, director of Recreation and Leisure Services, said this type of recognition says a lot about the impact the C&RC has on the region and how it enhances the quality of life in Upper St. Clair and surrounding areas. n

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of ServiceA Day On, Not a Day Off!In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday as a national

day of service. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service—“a day on, not a day off.” The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communi-ties, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most urgent and persistent question is: What are you doing for others?” Dr. King chal-lenged us to build a more perfect union and taught us that everyone has a role to play in making America what it ought to be.

The Upper St. Clair Department of Recreation and Leisure Services will be a part of the 26th annual Martin Luther King Day of Service on January 16, 2012. Volunteers at the C&RC will join hundreds of thousands of Americans who participate in MLK Day of Service projects in all 50 states. This day honors Dr. King’s legacy and commitment to transforming our nation through service to others.

“Dr. King’s life of service continues to inspire us more than 40 years after his death,” said Paul Besterman, director of USC’s Recreation and Leisure Services Department. “There is no more fitting way to honor Dr. King’s memory than by serving others, particularly those most in need.”

The C&RC will spend part of the “day on” doing various community service projects that benefit our greater community, including making “plarn” from plastic grocery bags that are crocheted into mats for the homeless. If you have a special project on which you’d like us to work, contact USC’s Community Programs Department at 412-221-1099. The program is open to all students in grades 1-6; students in grade 7 and higher may register to be group leaders or assistants. Adult volunteers are welcome too! The program runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $15 and includes all supplies, snacks, and a T-shirt.

After completing the service projects, participants will en-joy some treats and casual recreation in the C&RC. Wear com-fortable clothes and sneakers, and bring a bag lunch. You may also bring canned goods to donate to the food bank and/or books to donate to Children’s Hospital.

To register for MLK Day of Service, stop by the C&RC or visit livesmarterplayharder.org. Advance registration is required. n

C&RC Making News


The Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park has entered its third year of providing health and wellness to the South Hills community. This jewel of our commu-nity located on Mayview Road is further enhanced by its engaging staff members available to answer questions, offer classes, lead tours, and keep it spruced up and welcoming—all to keep you on your road to wellness.

If you’ve not yet taken the opportunity to visit the C&RC, you should do so now and find out about the many self guided offerings and classes providing land and water fitness activities to the community. It’s the place to “fit” in and be “fit!” See this page for “free day pass” coupon from the C&RC. n

Fitness and Aquatics staff, left to right, Katie Stache, Emily Memo, Melissa Lindberg, Bobby Davenport, Chris Biswick

Administrative staff, left to right, Storm Foreman, Sarah Povazan, Lynn Walcoff, Kristen Knittel,

Julie Shriver. Inset photo: Amy Kerman.

Maintenance staff, left to right: Bill Sommers, Kevin Ansell, Jeremy Lemley

Staff of the C&RC—Here to ServeT

W i n t e r 2 0 1 1 - 2 0 1 2

Deer Management UpdateThe 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 all-time 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 73. 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 as-sist 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 Man-agement program should contact Debi Bakowski, Township personnel, at 412-831-9000. n

Purchase a County license for dogs three months or older by January 1 every year.

Applications are available at the Township reception desk. Visit http://www.twpusc.org/police/animals/index.html to download and print the online annual dog license application (available in pdf format).

Fines can be up to $300 a day for each unlicensed dog.

Dog Owners

Code requirements concerning animal control can be found on the Township website at www.twpusc.org.

2011-2012 Trash and Recycling Holiday CollectionWeek of Thanksgiving Day

Wednesday, November 23 (no change)Friday, November 25 (Delayed one day)

Week of ChristmasRegular schedule

Week of New Year’sRegular schedule

2011 Fall Yard Debris and Leaf Waste Collection—Saturdays

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 two fall collections will take place Saturdays: November 19 and December 3.

Township of Upper St. Clair’sChristmas Tree Recycling Project!

You are invited to participate in the

Township of Upper St. Clair’sChristmas Tree Recycling Project!

Bring your tree, without decorations,to the YMCA upper parking lot

January 2-23, 2012.The trees will be ground for mulch for residents’ use.

Please remove all plastic tree bags!For more information, call 412-831-9000, extension 271or visit www.twpusc.org.

SAMPLE

T


USC TOWNSHIP

BULLETIN BOARDUSC TOWNSHIP

BULLETIN BOARD


T

Flag Finds Home at USCVFDIt’s been three quarters of the

way around the world, but a very special flag will soon find a permanent home at the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department.

The 48-star flag once belonged to Peters Township resident Bernie Singer. Singer, who had been a teacher with the Canon-McMillan School District, and his first wife, Marguerite, never had children, but one of his former students, Vince Crider, said that he and Bernie became so close that Bernie considered Crider his adopted son.

Crider explained that the Singers were a very patriotic family, and that the flag was given to Marguerite’s mother when she retired from the postal service.

“It’s been in the family a long time,” said Crider.

Singer, who served in the military dur-ing World War II and Korea, carried the flag with him during his military service in Germany and on various islands in the Pacific.

Crider recalled his first interaction with Singer, who taught electricity and electronics at Canon-Mac. “I wanted to get into his class,” said Crider, “so I went to talk to him. He gave me a box of junk and a manuscript and told me to take it home and make an electric motor. I took it home and came back the next day and gave him a motor. The next day I was in his class,” said Crider.

After graduation, Crider went on to work for various companies, including Westinghouse, RCA, and Motorola. He said that Singer was always proud of what Crider accomplished professionally, especially when Crider was listed as com-munications manager for ABC during the 1980 Olympics.

“Bernie was a motivator,” said Crider. “He asked me to speak to his students and he often invited other successful graduates back to speak to his current students.”

“I never thought of them as anything other than parents,” said Crider. He said that when he and his wife, Connie, ad-opted their daughter Katherine Lian, Bill and Marguerite served as godparents and often babysat for Katherine.

“Bernie and Marguerite were the type

of people who were always paying it for-ward,” said Crider. “If they liked you, you were part of the family. If they thought you were worth something, they would do what they could to help you.”

Crider said Carlow College once called Bernie because a student, a woman with children, was widowed and couldn’t afford to continue her education. Bernie paid her tuition until she finished her degree. Crider said the Singers met at Carlow College and donated a lot of money to the institution.

After Bernie Singer died, his second wife held an estate sale, and the items that were not sold went to Crider. Crider do-nated most of the items to St. Benedict the Abbot Church, but kept the 48-star flag.

Crider, who has the flag from Bernie Singer’s burial in the Cemetery of the Alleghenies, said he gave the 48-star flag to another of Bernie’s “sons” Dan McPoyle.

McPoyle, a graduate of Bethel Park High School, said he was Bernie’s only son who wasn’t from Canon-Mac. McPoyle got to know Bernie and Marguerite from St. Benedict the Abbot Church, as well as the VFW.

“The flag has always been important to me,” said McPoyle, “both as a veteran and an American. When I received the flag from Vince Crider, I told him I was going to donate it to honor Bernie.”

As he was walking on the trail at Gilfillan Farm in Upper St. Clair one day, McPoyle said he looked at the fire station and thought he would ask the firefight-ers at the USCVFD if they would accept Bernie’s flag.

McPoyle said he finished his walk and drove over to the station. He put on his vets hat and walked up to some of the volunteers, holding the old flag.

“I introduced myself,” said McPoyle, “and told them I was a close friend of Bernie Singer and wanted to donate his flag from the estate of Bernie and Marguerite.”

The flag is now in the process of being framed and will eventually be displayed in a place of honor at the fire station. n

This story first appeared in The Almanac. Note: The 48-star flag, used from 1912 to 1959, is the second longest U. S. flag in use.

FIRST CHURCH OFCHRIST, SCIENTIST

1100 Washington Road • 412-561-1125

SpiritualHealingExpectedHerefor allmankind

and you!


TTri-Community South 2012 Subscription DriveWon’t You Join?

Preparing for Disaster

It is time once again for the Tri-Community South EMS annual subscription drive. Tri-Community South Emergency Medical Service would like to thank those who have supported the system with donations and through the subscription drive in 2011. Tri-Community South EMS has been providing emergency medical care since December 1977. The system is entering its 34th

year with the help and support from the people it serves.Tri-Community South EMS takes pride in providing the high-

est possible level of emergency medical care to the community. It uses state-of-the-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). Tri-Community South is one of only 125 EMS agencies in North America to re-ceive this accreditation.

Tri-Community South depends on the support of the residents of Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, and South Park through subscrip-tions and donations to continue to provide its valuable service.

Your subscription helps to cover the cost of operating the am-bulances 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 to pay for ambulances and medical equipment such as cardiac monitors. This equipment has a long, but not unlimited service life. In 2012, Tri-Community South will need to replace three ambulances at a cost of approximately $130,000 each.

Since 2001, Tri-Community South 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 still pay the monthly membership fee “just in case” they want to go. At one-sixth the cost of a gym membership, an ambu-lance subscription is a much better “just in case” value!

Your subscription to Tri-Community South EMS means that should you need medically necessary ambulance transportation, Tri-Community South EMS 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 ser-vices. Non-subscribers must pay the full amount of the invoice, regardless of what the insurer pays. Most insurance companies cover only 80% of the ambulance bill, leaving the remaining 20% for you to pay. With your $60 per year subscription to Tri-Community South EMS 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 can often exceed $600 per trip.

So, go ahead and join. Won’t you? n

Tri-Community South EMS par-ticipated in the regional National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) drill at Pittsburgh International Airport this past August. The goal of the drill was to assess the ability of the local NDMS agencies to treat and transport a large number of disaster victims arriving in Western Pennsylvania from a remote location. Tri-Community South was a part of the transport contingent. Among the other participants in the drill were the 911th Airlift Group of the Air Force Reserve, the PA-1 Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT), the Civil Air Patrol, and about 20 Southwestern Pennsylvania EMS services.

The Southwestern Pennsylvania area is one of several identified in the NDMS as having excellent capability to handle many medical and trauma patients from a remote disaster. Part of that capability is the availability of high-quality EMS services to

provide transport. Drills to practice and evaluate different parts of the response plan are held periodically, each with a slightly different scenario.

The scenario for this year’s drill was that of a gulf coast hurricane that destroys the medical facilities of a number of large communities. The 911th Airlift Group flies patients from these communities to Pittsburgh International Airport, where they are triaged and treated by DMAT per-sonnel and transported by EMS agencies for treatment at the Pittsburgh region’s hos-pitals. In such a scenario, local providers would have about three days to assemble resources to prepare for the arrival of the injured.

The focus of this year’s drill was the triage, treatment, and transfer of patients in the field treatment area at one of the hangars at the Air Force base, including the transfer of care from the airlift team

to the treatment personnel, and from the treatment personnel to the transport crews, and the staging of transport ambulances. Since neither the ambulance transportation nor receiving hospital aspects were being reviewed this year, the patients were not actually transported to area hospitals, but to a site on the air base.

Evaluators from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assessed every aspect of the drill. This year’s drill proceeded smoothly and there were no obvious inadequacies. As in the past, FEMA evaluates every detail and makes recommendations that could lead to even better performance. n

For more information on disaster manage-ment or for any other questions on emergency medical services, call Tri-Community South at 412-831-3710, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit www.tcsems.org.

Our physician network continues to grow.

Fatigati/Nalin Associates has been providing a full spectrum of primary care

to residents for more than 20 years. We’re expanding and welcoming patients

at our new offices in Peters Township. To schedule an appointment please

call 724-731-0090.

4000 WATERDAM PLAZA DRIVE . SUITE 240 . MCMURRAY, PA 15317 . WWW.STCLAIR.ORG

Nicholas P. DiTullio, M.D. earned his medical degreeat the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine,wherehe was awarded the James D.Heard Award for BestSenior Performance in Internal Medicine.Hecompletedhis training in internal medicine at the University ofPittsburgh Medical Center. Dr. DiTullio is a certifiedmedical director in long term care and board certifiedin internal medicine.

Nithin V. Bhandarkar, D.O. earned his medicaldegree at the Western University of HealthScience, College of Osteopathic Medicine of thePacific, Pomona, Calif., and specializes in internalmedicine. He completed his training in internalmedicine at the University of Pittsburgh MedicalCenter, Mercy Hospital.

Mario J. Fatigati, M.D. earned his medical degreeat the University of Rome, Italy. He completed hisinternship and residency in internal medicine atthe former St. Francis Medical Center, Pittsburgh,where he later served as chief resident in internalmedicine. He is board certified in internal medicineand holds specialty certification in Geriatric Medicine.He is a certified medical director in long term care.

FATIGATI/NALIN ASSOCIATESNOW IN PETERS.

Dr. DiTullio Dr. Fatigati Dr. Bhandarkar

223-265_F01_WINT2011_USC_FNA_Peters_FP4c 8/4/11 2:47 PM Page 1


LIFE PLANNING

Early Detection of Breast Cancer—The Breast Self ExamDr. Natalie Furgiuele, Breast Surgeon at Radiance Surgery Center

It is common knowledge that the earlier a cancer is found the better chance for survival. It is no different with breast cancer. The largest risk factor is being female and aging. So, what’s a woman to do? Mortality has decreased significantly with the use of screening. Screening means looking for a disease when an individual is completely without symptoms, as opposed to “diagnostic” testing done to evaluate symptoms like breast pain or a breast lump, or to further investigate something new or a change in the breast seen on your routine mammogram. Current recommendations for screening are baseline mammography at age 35 and yearly from age 40 on. Unfortunately, there is no perfect X-ray! Breast imaging is pretty darn good, but it can miss up to 15% of all breast cancers.

What about breast self exam? Anyone who has ever felt her breasts knows that there are plenty of “lumpy-bumpy” areas. Breast tissue changes in response to hormones and since it extends into the armpits, so can tenderness. Deciding whether an area is abnormal can be a dilemma.

In my opinion, the best time to do your breast exam is after your menstrual cycle is finished. Breasts are primarily symmetrical, so one side should feel like the other side. Comparing the sides of each breast can help determine if there is an abnormality. If doing a breast self exam just causes too much anxiety, at least look at your breasts in the mirror occasionally. Raise your arms looking for retraction (pulling in of skin) around the nipple. Glance inside your bra to look for staining and at the nipple itself checking for crusting.

“Drainage” depending on age, number of ducts involved, and medicines, can even be “physiologic” or normal. Do not compress the nipples since overzealous compression can cause bleeding. Drainage that is bloody, clear, or only from one duct can be more serious and needs to be further evaluated. Women may not feel comfortable do-ing a breast self exam. But as we age, so, too, does our risk increase. Try to be observant.

Without coordination with breast imaging, breast self exam alone may not necessarily save lives. As a matter of fact, there was a recent suggestion in a local newspaper that perhaps breast self exam should be done away with completely.

I strongly disagree. Of course, a breast exam should be part of your yearly physical exam done by your family physician or gyne-cologist. The bottom line is that you are your own best advocate. So if something doesn’t feel “quite right,” seek help from a medical professional. Because of its variability, it can be difficult to know if what you are feeling is really abnormal. It might take a few visits and some imaging to be certain, so follow through with a repeat exam if things do not seem to be resolving. Common sense should prevail. You can’t run away—your breasts go with you! Early detection can save lives. The breast self exam is simply one of the first steps in that direction. n

Dr. Furgiuele also operates at St. Clair and Mon Valley Hospitals, UPMC South, and The Washington Hospital/Tri-State. She can be reached at 412-833-9722. See ad for RADIANCE Surgery Center on this page.


tenacity

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

Hef-Till_USCToday_Winter-FINAL_- 9/8/11 9:23 AM Page 1

LIFE PLANNING


LIFE PLANNING

Understanding Hospice and End of Life CareDaniel Erlanger, D.O., Fatigati-Nalin Associates/St. Clair Medical Services

When to use hospice care continues to be poorly understood by both the community as well as health care providers. Hospice care is care that is provided when a terminally ill person is no longer seeking or benefitting from aggressive, life-sustaining treatments. The goal of hospice is to make the patient comfortable, encompassing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the patient and those of the patient’s family. The hospice philosophy seeks to allow patients to maintain their dignity and to attain a degree of mental and spiritual preparation for death that is meaningful and satisfactory to them.

There are several misconceptions regarding end of life care and hos-pice. Hospice, at its inception, was primarily utilized by patients suffering from a terminal cancer. Currently, more patients without cancer are taking advantage of the hospice benefit. Examples of other life-limiting illnesses include severe cardiac and pulmonary disease, large strokes, kidney failure, and even end stage dementia, among others. Patients who have a disease which their doctors feel will likely limit their life expectancy to six months or less if the disease runs its expected course are eligible and appropriate for hospice care.

Another common misconception is that hospice hastens the dying process. Several reports have shown that hospice patients often live longer because they do not develop the many side effects of aggressive treatments and repeated hospitalizations. Additionally, because the focus is on quality of life and palliative treatments, patients and their families have a higher level of satisfaction. Patients who elect hospice care are not required to stop all other treatments and medications. Even though the goal of hospice is to treat the patient’s signs and symptoms of his or her disease, including pain, nausea, anorexia, anxiety, and fear, a care plan

developed with hospice can allow for ongoing care of the patient’s other medical issues, like diabetes or hypertension.

Hospice provides sensitive, dignified, and cost effective health care. Hospice is covered by the Medicare and Medicaid benefit as well as most private insurance carriers. Hospice services include medical and nursing care, home health aides to assist with patient hygiene, social services, grief and counseling services, and spiritual care.

The goal is to provide a high level of care wherever the patient resides, whether at home, a personnel care home, skilled nursing facility, or in the hospital. The majority of hospice patients are able to stay in their current living situation throughout this process.

It is appropriate to start thinking about hospice anytime during a life-limiting illness. It is sometimes difficult for patients and their families to recognize that aggressive treatments are becoming less tolerated by the patient and also less effective than before. Patients and families should discuss with their physicians the options of hospice care versus the cur-rent care they are receiving. Electing hospice does require an order from a physician.

Hospice care is a benefit to those with a life-limiting condition whose goal is directed toward the relief of symptoms rather than cure of the underlying disease. The medical community and general population are increasingly seeking out end-of -life options and care. A better understand-ing of the benefits of hospice care allows patients and their families to meet the goals of the dying patient. Upon request, all hospice providers will offer more detailed information and guidance. n

See ad for Harmony Hospice on this page.

Find strength in our care.

HarmonyHospice

412.276.4700 • harmonyhospice.com


Country Meadows does not discriminate in resident admission on the basis of race, ancestry, religious creed, age, sex, handicap, disability or national origin, provided the resident, in the sole opinion of Country Meadows, can be cared for legally and responsibly.

3570 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA 15017412.257.4581 | www.CountryMeadows.com

A Continuing Care Retirement Community

Independent Living | Personal Care | Assisted Living Memory Support | Restorative Care | Skilled Nursing | In-Home Services

®

Life gets better.Life gets better.

~ Jeanne Wood Country Meadows resident since 2008

Jeanne brought her memories with her to Country Meadows and left homeowner worries behind. Now Jeanne feels spoiled by people serving her dinner, cleaning her apartment, even planning a full social calendar. It gives her the gift of time to do the things she loves most.

“ When I moved to Country Meadows I left home responsibility behind. Here, everything is taken care of for you and your worries are gone.”

LIFE PLANNINGIs Heartburn Keeping You Up At Night?Dr. Mark CedarYou knew you shouldn’t have eaten that

chili cheeseburger right before bed, but you just couldn’t resist. Now the burning in your chest has you worried that you’re going to go into full cardiac arrest. But, contrary to popular belief, heartburn isn’t a problem with your heart at all.

Heartburn, commonly known as acid reflux, is one of the cardinal symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD has been defined as symptoms or mucosal damage produced by the abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. Common symptoms associated with GERD include food regurgitation and difficulty swallowing.

Studies have shown that up to 26% of the population in the Western world suffers from weekly symptoms associated with GERD, according to a 2001 article in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Acid reflux often is confused with angina and is therefore one of the leading causes of emergency room visits and hospital admissions. Although it is typically described as a burning sensation in the upper abdomen or chest, heartburn also may pres-ent as chest pain, nausea, a lump in the throat, or difficulty swallowing.

According to the 2003 American Journal of Gastroenterology, up to 78% of patients reflux noc-turnally, so GERD is also a common cause of sleep disorders.

Complications related to GERD include esophagitis, stricture, anemia, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer (adenocarcinoma). In ad-dition, a variety of extraesophageal manifestations have been described, including chronic cough, asthma, laryngitis, and bronchospasm.

Upper endoscopy (EGD) is recommended for the initial evaluation of patients suspected to have GERD. Patients are sedated before endoscopy to prevent discomfort, and gastroenterologists insert a thin, lighted tube with a camera that allows them to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Endoscopy with biopsy is used to detect most cases of GERD.

Treatment of GERD requires lifestyle modifica-tions, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, as well as dietary changes, including limitations of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, and late-night eating.

Antacids and non-prescription histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonists, such as Ranitidine, often are sufficient for mild symptoms, but the stronger proton pump inhibitors, such as Omeprazole, are usually required for refractory GERD symptoms.

Surgery and endoscopic techniques for treat-ment of GERD are generally reserved for patients with severe complications, such as strictures, ad-vanced Barrett’s esophagus, or adenocarcinoma. n

Dr. Mark Cedar is a board-certified gastroenter-ologist, serving patients in the Pittsburgh area. See ad for South Hills Endoscopy on page 1.


LIFE PLANNINGGiving To Others By Using TechnologyThe number of ways that people

can stay connected through technology is constantly increasing. Charitable organiza-tions are actively seeking new ways to weave cutting-edge technology into mainstream activities, improving communications with donors, nonprofits, and other key constitu-ents, as well as innovating giving options through the development of new online programs.

One example of using new types of com-munication to help others was the third annual community-wide Day of Giving event, hosted by The Pittsburgh Foundation on October 4. Using its PittsburghGives online program, more than 600 local charities in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties with profiles on the PittsburghGives site were eligible to receive contributions from donors which received an equal pro-rated share of matching funds.

Since the launch of PittsburghGives in 2009, the site’s special giving events have pumped more than $10 million into local nonprofits, many of which have struggled during the aftermath of the recession to meet increased demand with shrinking resources.

“We have no doubt that our Day of Giving events have been a huge success and at a most critical time,” said Grant Oliphant, The Pittsburgh Foundation’s president and CEO. “We have accomplished what we set out to do in providing a valuable resource to help our community’s nonprofit organiza-tions to build broader and more sustainable on-going support.”

In a remarkable outpouring of public support last year, 7400 individual donations

Healthy FeedbackSt. Clair Hospital is reaching out to

area residents for their opinions on which health care needs they deem most impor-tant for their respective communities.

The hospital has launched a new ini-tiative to encourage public input using its website, www.stclair.org. Visitors to the site will be directed to a survey of ques-tions that will gauge an overall sense of the health issues most important to area residents. Topics cover the types of experi-ences encountered when trying to obtain health care, satisfaction with support


LIFE PLANNINGflowed in at an average of $38 per second. Local funding partners, including the Heinz Endowments and the Buhl, Benedum, and Grable foundations, matched each contribu-tion with a pro-rated equal share from a total of $500,000.

This year, the 24-hour Day of Giving events ran simultaneously for Allegheny and Westmoreland counties—midnight to midnight on October 4—but as with 2010, each had its separate match pool. The Com-munity Foundation of Westmoreland County became part of The Pittsburgh Foundation following completion of its merger in the summer 2010.

A beneficial by-product of PittsburghGives is the increased awareness among nonprofits about how technology can support their charitable efforts. The Foundation held free classes explaining the uses of various social media platforms which it hopes will provide the tools to help it to continue to grow the donor and funding bases.

Technology has also provided the gateway for the Foundation’s new website, unveiled last year, which includes a video platform, Pittsburgh on Video, or POV, providing a resource for nonprofits and other community organizations to tell stories that showcase their valuable work and focus on issues that are relevant to our region’s well-being. This and PittsburghGives have become national models for similar initiatives that are being developed by other foundations across the United States. n

services in the community, barriers to lo-cal services, and identification of principal health issues facing the community.

“Through this process we hope to gain a broader base of views about health care needs in the communities we serve,” said Andrea L. Kalina, vice president of Human Resources and Organizational Advance-ment at St. Clair Hospital. “This is just one, but an important part, of a multifaceted community needs assessment the hospital is currently conducting.” n

The PittsburghGives platform serves as a vehicle for nonprofits to showcase their work in the community, detailing information about their charitable programs, missions, management, and finances. PittsburghGives can be accessed at www.pittsburghgives.org. See ad on page 72.

To access the online St. Clair Hospital health needs survey, visit www.stclair.org.


LIFE PLANNING

Practicing PresenceGina KallickMy son and his friends are in their

second year of college. Some of them know, or think they know, their life’s plan. Most are often thinking about, talking about, worry-ing about, and trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives.

I have often explained that there are many adults, his mom included, who have had these same thoughts at different times in their lives. I have suggested to my son that he might, “just try to be a college student for now and believe that it will all work out.” At times, this has been met with some resistance. I recently asked him if he really believed that his mom sat down and wrote a plan to own and manage a company, move away from her entire family and friends, and become a yoga teacher!

Things will work out if you learn to quiet your mind, listen to your inner voice, and let your heart and soul lead you. Allow life’s energy to guide you on your life’s journey.

Yes, there is a need to plan, think about the future, set goals, and envision where we

A Holistic Approach to CancerKelly Haywiser, LMT, RMT, and Holistic Lifestyle Coach The body, mind, and spiritual (holistic) approach to cancer is described as

living fully in the present moment. Being in a state of optimal wellness involves harmony on all of these levels. We are so focused on the physical side of life that we forget about the mind and spirit. I personally have never had cancer; but as with most, cancer has found its way into our family’s life.

In 2005 my father was diagnosed with cancer, and my world changed dramatically. The Internet became my focus as I searched cures and options. But I soon learned that your focus should be on precious moments with your loved one. I had just finished my training in mas-sage therapy and was taught “massage was contraindicated for cancer patients.” My father wanted to receive back massages, but I was scared. So I gave him Reiki, a form of Japanese Energy Healing. This non-invasive therapy not only gave him holistic relief of pain, anxiety, and worry, it also gave me that much needed connection with my father. We found peace and joy in our visits. As my father’s health conditions worsened, I began to give him foot and hand massages. We found a bond through touch, that can only be described as pure joy and love.

Since that time, I have been trained in oncology massage. I have learned that “massage is not contraindicated for someone with cancer.” It does require a more comprehensive in-terviewing and planning process to create a customized therapy session based on the client’s special circumstances. The types of massage strokes, pressure (light to medium), length of time, time of receiving massage, which body parts to massage, and physical environment are very important. Clients often find relief from pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and worry as well as the physical benefits of a boost to the immune system.

The power of touch is amazing. It can only be described as loving and comforting to be in the present moment. Oncology massage can bring peace of mind when performed by a fully, trained therapist. The benefits are—can I say it—holistic. n

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LIFE PLANNING

want to go, but staying in the future creates unrest, making us feel overwhelmed by all the tasks and responsibilities, or unhappy if our expectations aren’t met. The same is true of the past. We need to visit the past for the wonderful memories and lessons learned that can help us grow or heal old wounds, but then move on; we can’t get stuck there either!

Yoga teaches us to practice presence by simply focusing on one breath, one posture. We align our physical bodies, but we also align and balance our minds—calm the chatter and lingering chaos.

Like me, many of my students show up on their mats, for the physical “workout.” Most continue to return to their mat for the calm and empowerment they feel and how this practice has begun to enrich their lives on and off their mat. What we practice in yoga, we begin to practice in life.

Practicing presence and believing that it will all work out allows your life’s plan to naturally and easily fall into place. Just as we allow our breath to lead and energize us in our yoga practice, we learn to ride life’s energy to guide us on our journey.

It is with heartfelt gratitude that I teach yoga. I am inspired by my students and feel fortunate to share and lead this practice that brings calm, grace, balance, flexibility, strength, awareness, joy, and happiness to our bodies and our minds.

Namaste! n

Gina lives in USC and has two children, who both practice yoga with their mom. For more information or to contact Gina, for Yoga Innovations visit GinaKallick.com or YogaInnovations.com. See ad on page 74.

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LIFE PLANNING

Sipe Infusion CenterGenerous Gift to Benefit Patients

Addressing Pain Management with Massage Therapy

The new Carol and Denny Sipe Infusion Center opened on the third floor of St. Clair Hospital on July 14, following an official dedication ceremony.

The center is for outpatients being treated with chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and injections or infusions for various ailments such as Crohn’s Disease, osteoporosis, ar-thritis, and other auto-immune diagnoses. The center also performs procedures such as peripherally inserted central catheters and phle-botomy for hemochromatosis (a disease of iron metabolism).

The new center was constructed in the space formerly occupied by Outpatient Physi-cal Therapy, which moved to St. Clair Hospital Outpatient Center at Village Square in Bethel Park.

With the opening of Sipe Infusion Center, the former infusion center—also on the third floor—will be renovated to expand the area used by patients who are recovering following outpatient surgery.

“The Sipe Infusion Center is a larger, more modern and aesthetically pleasing space for patients,” said Rosemary Miller, manager of the Sipe Infusion Center, who noted the new cen-ter, at 4900-square feet, is almost triple the size of the former center. “It will also provide nurses with much better access to the patients.”

The new center’s layout gives nurses a

panoramic view. “The nurses are now able to sit within sight of the patients, giving them constant visualization,” Rosemary said. A pri-vacy wall, with frosted glass, separates patients without causing a sense of confinement.

In addition to a family lounge, Sipe Infu-sion Center has 11 treatment chairs—up from nine—and four private beds for patients. Each chair and bed is outfitted with a flat panel TV. Patients also have access to the Internet. More-over, patients have a nurse call system at their ready. Access into the Infusion Center by am-bulatory patients is much more convenient, as the center is adjacent to the visitors’ elevators and only steps away from patient registration and the lab.

A nutrition station makes snacks and bever-ages more readily accessible. St. Clair Nutrition Services provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner to patients, many of whom spend up to eight hours at the center. The center’s 12 employees include RNs, float nurses, and a secretary.

Sipe Infusion Center is named after Dennis J. “Denny” Sipe of Pittsburgh, who, along with his wife, Carol, made a generous gift to St. Clair Hospital Foundation to help fund the construc-tion. Mr. Sipe, who was a patient at the center, passed away in January. He was co-owner of All-Pak Inc. in Bridgeville.

Because of Denny and Carol’s admiration and appreciation for the compassionate care he

received in the Infusion Center, they wanted the nurses, physicians, and staff of the Infu-sion Center to have a first-class environment in which to deliver their first-class care,” said Sheila Gorgonio, executive director of St. Clair Hospital Foundation. “St. Clair Hospital and its employees are extremely appreciative of the Sipe family’s gift and their incredible thought-fulness to us and our patients,” she said. n

Massage therapy breaks the pain cycle by incorpo-rating massage modalities, including neuromuscular, trigger point, myofascial release, manual lymph drainage, and Swedish, to name a few. The pain cycle begins when painful stimuli result in reflex muscle contraction and localized muscle splinting or guarding restricts movement and decreases circulation and oxygen to the tissue. The muscle continues to swell, creating more pain, which increases stress and spasms, resulting in more pain.

Massage therapy interrupts the pain cycle at all levels. Effec-tive therapy works from the external, outer mechanisms of pain to the primary, root cause. By focusing on the entire body system and its relationship to soft tissue, massage therapy addresses the root of the pain, not just the site of the pain.

To be effective, the fascia (fascia—a network of woven thread that covers everything, including organs, muscles, bones, and nerves) restrictions that cause adhesions, edema, and spasms are addressed first. By unbinding the fascia, the tightness is re-lieved and tension relaxed. Secondly and over time, scar tissue surrounding an injured site may have formed causing the tissue

to interfere with the muscles’ ability to broaden as it contracts, increasing pain and more restriction. Once scar tissue is broken up, the site is able to heal correctly, reducing pain and increasing range of motion. The third thing to address is a trigger point (a hyperirritable spot that when applied with compression elicits a painful response; sometimes referred to as pain to site of origin). When compressed, the point can be “triggered” to release the pain that it is causing.

When the pain areas are addressed as a whole, a reduction in pain and increase in range of motion and flexibility can occur, getting you on course to continue with normal daily activities. Massage should be part of your monthly health care; it is not a one-time fix. But with continued care and self care at home, including stretching and exercises, your time between massage treatments can increase, while you continue to be pain free. n

See St. Clair Hospital ads on pages 3 and 67.

See ad for Danielle Thomas on page 75. Information taken from American Massage Therapy Assoc. and Susan G. Salvo

Massage Therapy Principle and Practice.

Sipe Infusion CenterAvailable services include:

Administration of IV solutions and medications• Administration of blood/blood components (6-8 • hour procedure)Therapeutic phlebotomy• Antibiotic administration• Administration of IV Chemotherapy agents• Obtain specimens for designated lab studies: • stimulation test, tolerance tests, etc.Skin test• Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters and • mid-time catheter insertionsMaintenance of IV devices• De-clotting of central IV catheters• Repair of tunneled IV device• IV Hydration• Subcutaneous and intramuscular injections• Administer first dose for home infusion services•

With a physician’s order, patients can schedule appointments by contacting the Sipe Infusion Center at 412-942-3550. For added convenience, patients may also pre-register through the Ad-missions Office when making the appointment. Lengthy treatments, such as transfusions, must be scheduled early in the day to ensure that treatment is completed within the hours of operation, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.


Local Evening Rotary Club Serves Many

Meet Two Members of TING

The Bethel-St. Clair Evening Rotary Club is 54 years young and celebrating another year of friendship and service to the area. Its rich and proud history of serving Pittsburgh’s South Hills has been honored and recognized for many achievements. The club has received the South Western Pennsylvania Most Outstanding Club of the Year Award seven times: 1981, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 2001, and, most recently, 2010.

In December 2000 during the presidency of Jack Watkins, the Rotary Club was honored as the “Most Outstanding Philanthropic Organization for 2000” by the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Society of Fundraising Executives, joining a list of distinguished Pittsburgh-area organizations to receive this pres-tigious award, including Mellon Financial Corporation, Howard Heinz Endowment, and the Alcoa, Westinghouse, and Bayer Foundations.

Among its many achievements, the Rotary Club takes pride in the successes and achievements of the two other Rotary clubs that have organized in the South Hills area—the Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Breakfast Club and the Rotary Club of Bethel Park, a luncheon meeting club.

For over 50 years, the Rotary Club of Bethel-St. Clair has suc-cessfully conducted its annual Pancake Festival at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The festival has become legendary with the assistance from many of its outreach beneficiaries, including YMCA Camp AIM, Southwinds Inc., Family Hospice, Boy Scout Troop 366, Prime Time Adult Care, Meals on Wheels, Wesley Institute, and South Hills Interfaith Ministries. Normally, over 2500 people partake of the homemade pancakes and delicious sausage, enjoying the opportunity to go back for seconds, thirds, or more. The cumulative total from this annual event has raised over $1 million and supports local, worthy organizations.

A fun project that the Rotary Club conducts each year is the Easter egg hunt—watching some 500 kids run around to gather money placed in plastic eggs, play games, and harass the dressed up “Easter bunny.”

Another significant fundraiser is the annual Gourmet Dinner Dance Auction. This gala supports local ambassadorial post graduate scholarships and humanitarian projects, including the support for Rotary International’s global goal to rid the world of polio. This South Hills social gathering, referred to as “the event you should never miss,” allows members to thank their custom-ers, call attention to the members’ businesses for the people in attendance, and invite family, friends, and neighbors.

The Rotary Club of Bethel-St. Clair has a rich, outstanding history of friendship and service. For more information about membership, call Rotary members Jim Bolas at 412-680-5708, Louis P. Piconi at 412-831-1161, or George Pitcairn at 412-352-8789. n

Attorney Bill Evans and accountant Bill Reilly of Upper St. Clair recently conducted a seminar for The Indepen-dent Networking Group (TING). The “Double Bill” presentation guided TING members, many of whom are business owners themselves, about the need to ensure that policies and procedures are in place to receive prompt payment for services and how to avoid the necessity for collections. They also discussed the legal steps necessary to recover past due accounts.

TING, a small business owners’ networking organization founded in the South Hills in April 2010, began with eight char-ter members. The group, which gathers monthly at the Galleria, has grown to 27 members from the South Hills area, with one representative per business field.

Attorney Bill Evans, a USC resident since 1991, opened William S. Evans, Attorney at Law, on Potomac Avenue in Dormont in 2010. Previously, he worked as in-house counsel for two international Pittsburgh-based corporations. Attorney Evans, a Duquesne Law School alumnus, is an involved Upper St. Clair resident. Through the years, he has coached little league baseball,

softball, football, and soccer and has repre-sented his constituents as a member of the Cable Review Board in Upper St. Clair.

Bill Reilly, a 25-year USC resident, started an accounting business in 2004. Prior to start-ing his own business, Bill worked in a Pittsburgh-based CPA firm, was a controller for 14 years for several Western Pennsylvania companies rang-ing in revenue from $3-$15 million, and then managed a small CPA firm. Involved in his daughters’, Amber and Rachel’s, activities, he has been involved with USC softball, basketball, and dance teams for years, helping those organizations on many Community Days. n

For more information on TING, email [email protected].

Around the Township

TING members, Bill Reilly and Bill Evans

Many enjoy the Pancake Festival.

Prof ileson People with a USC Connection

Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday @ uscsd.k12.pa.us


James Beall fired a sparkling no hit game this past July at Consol Energy Park in Washington in a West Penn Colt League contest. Beall led the Upper St. Clair Panthers to a 1-0 victory against the Washington Colt squad, in a regulation seven-inning game. He threw 72 strikes and 41 balls en route to striking out 11 batters. Beall hit one Washington batsman and walked three.

After the win, his USC teammates, including Mark Allwes, Conner Ackerman, Brian Burke, Ian James, Steve Kleinhans, Matt Hesse, Owen Meiman, Keenan Murray, Alex Stevenson, and Mike Stevenson, awarded him the game ball, which they autographed.

James Beall also plays legion baseball and is a senior at USCHS.

Dr. Gary Liebel and Dr. Leigh Buzzatto each have each been named to this year’s Top Dentists list in the Pittsburgh area. Pittsburgh Magazine compiled the list based on detailed evaluations of dentists by their colleagues and peers.

Both Gary and Leigh completed their undergradu-ate studies at Penn State University and received their doctoral degrees from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.

Gary and Leigh, 20-year residents of Upper St. Clair, have a son, Garret, a sophomore at Upper St. Clair High School.

Although Gary and Leigh spend a lot of time together as husband and wife, they work separately.

Gary, a dentist since 1982, has a general family practice at 508 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon. Leigh, a dentist since 1981, has a general family practice together with her two brothers and sister at 510 Station Street in Bridgeville.

Doctors Leigh Buzzato and Gary Liebel

Upper St. Clair’s Mike Lloyd com-pleted the grueling half marathon at Pikes Peak, Colorado, this past August as his third and final event of a per-sonal Visionquest to raise money for the South Hill YMCA Camp Aim. A YMCA volunteer, Mike’s goal was to raise $2000 for the camp, which serves children throughout Allegheny County with mental, physical, or social special needs.

In addition to the Pike’s Peak race, Mike’s Visionquest included a three-day, 350-mile bike trip from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC in July, just when the heat index hit 115 degrees. The first event was completing the Rachel Carson Trail Challenge in June, a 34-miles-in-one-day hike.

While Mike has completed his Visionquest for this year, you can still donate to Camp AIM. Checks can be sent to the South Hills YMCA, 51 McMurray Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241, or donate online at www.ymcaofpittsburgh.org/support-the-y/donate/.

Mike, at the Pike’s Peak Half Marathon

Upper St. Clair residents Betsy Boughner and Gail Groninger have launched Stella & Dot (www.stelladot.com), a direct sales jewelry and accessories company from their homes. The company offers stylish and versatile accessories at affordable prices which are sold at in-home Trunk Shows.

For more information, contact Gail Groninger at [email protected] or 412-708-0163 or visit www.stelladot.com/betsyandgail.

Gail and Betsy

USC resident Fran Joyce recently pub-lished her first book, Dancing in the Rain: Surviving Breast Cancer and Learning to Embrace Life.

Dancing in the Rain is the story of five breast cancer survivors who met when asked to dance on stage with Zumba founder Beto Pe rez dur ing a S u s a n G . Koman fundrais-er in Pittsburgh. Fran’s book ex-

plores how each woman dealt with cancer and the decisions they made about their treatment.

The book details the myriad of tests, treatment options, and drugs available for treating breast cancer. “If you’ve gone through breast cancer you can relate to it,” said Fran. “If you’re diagnosed, you can learn from it.”

Ten percent of Fran’s profits go to Susan G. Koman for the Cure in Pittsburgh. Dancing in the Rain is available on Amazon.com.

The cover art for Dancing in the Rain, created by local artist Cynthia Stanchak and her daughter,

Aubrey, is a flower. Each of the five petals is a breast cancer ribbon with the figure of a dancing woman

inside to represent the five survivors.

Fran Joyce (left) with her Zumba instructor, USC resident Debbie Colditz


Upper St. Clair resident Arlene Baratz, MD, has special reasons for wanting to become involved with the Pink Ribbon Round Up, a non-profit breast cancer organization lo-cated in Pittsburgh.

“As a breast radiologist in Allegheny General Hospital’s Breast Care Center, I have been involved in breast cancer advocacy since the early 1990s,” Dr. Baratz said. “My involvement with the Pink Ribbon Round Up began in 2006 when a mutual friend and horse lover introduced me to the organization’s founder and president, and breast cancer survivor, Pat Hodder. Since then, it has been my privilege to give back to the wonderful commu-nity of women who live with breast cancer and whose courage and dedication have inspired me in both my personal life and professional life.”

Dr. Baratz serves on the board of directors and is the physi-cian liaison of the Pink Ribbon Round Up and took part in the organization’s two-day annual charity event, a western-themed gala and horseback ride.

The gala took place in Wexford, with KDKA-TV’s Mary Robb Jackson serving as honorary chairperson and Stoney Richards of radio station Y-108 FM serving as master of ceremonies. Boots, jeans, and western gear were the popular and preferred attire for the evening’s festivities.

The annual horseback ride took place at North Park, the day after the gala.

“The Pink Ribbon Round Up has raised more than $170,000 in its first five years of exis-tence,” Dr. Baratz noted. “The funds go directly to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Pittsburgh

affiliate, designated for breast cancer research.” According to Dr. Baratz, the Pink Ribbon Round Up is the largest independent contributor to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Pittsburgh.

“The name of the organization was the brainchild of Hodder, who is the owner of five horses,” Dr. Baratz explained. “While going through chemotherapy six years ago, she wanted to de-velop a fundraising event that would focus on the equestrian community in Western Pennsylvania.”

The organization is in its sixth year of hosting the annual Western Gala and horseback ride fundraising events.

Dr. Baratz noted that volunteers are always welcome to join the planning committee by calling Pat Hodder at 412-638-9963. Contributions are welcome, as well, and can be made by purchasing tickets to the Western Gala, riding in the trail ride, or through direct contributions, which can be made by contacting Hodder or visiting the organization’s website at www.pinkribbonroundup.org.

“We are very grateful to our faithful followers who continue to support this wonderful organization and all that it provides for women with breast cancer,” Dr. Baratz said. “We have our eyes set on a new goal of reaching $200,000 by 2012.” n

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PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS®, a winter holiday program founded in 1984 has granted gifts and holiday visits for more than 431,113 patients living in nursing home facilities here in Pennsylvania and also in Ohio, New York, Tennessee, and West Virginia. In

2010, 103 businesses, 29 churches, 23 schools, 33 organizations, and 110 scout troops participated by adopting patients and visit-ing them over the holiday season.

The program was created to ensure that long-term care residents are not forgotten during the holidays and to encourage community members to visit their local long-term care facilities espousing kindness and compassion.

The campaign matches interested donors with a patient at a nearby nursing facility. Donors are then sent their patient’s information, including his or her three gift wishes. Each donor is asked to purchase at least one of those items for the patient. Donations in the form of volunteer hours at the headquarters are also appreciated.

For more information to donate or participate, call 724-444-5521 or visit www.PRESENTSFORPATIENTS.com. n

The fifth annual Symphony of Food–A Chefs’ Showcase dinner sponsored by WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc. will be held Friday, January 27, 2012. Held at the Bella Sera event venue, 414 Morganza Road, Canonsburg, doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $75 (tax-deductible, non-refundable donation). Reservations are required. For tickets, call 724-514-7176. For additional event infor-mation, visit www.womenofswpa.org. n

Choir Wins National AwardThe Junior Mendelssohn Choir recently won the 2011 American Prize

for Choral Performance, High School Division, and the timing of the prize couldn’t have been better! In addition to the award, the choir celebrated its 25th anniversary this past fall.

The Junior Mendelssohn is made up of young singers from across the Pittsburgh area and includes Michael Boyas (baritone), USCHS senior. Lisa Moore (alto), a 2011 USCHS graduate, is returning as an alumna for the Junior Mendelssohn 25th anniversary concert this month.

“I feel so hon-ored to have been a part of the Junior Mendelssohn Choir for three years,” remarked Lisa. “I am thrilled that the choir received na-tional recognition. Singing with other music-loving stu-dents from all around Pittsburgh was an amazing experience. The shared passion for classical music is inspirational, and I will definitely continue singing in choirs through-out my college years. It’s still weird to think of myself as an alumna, but I cannot wait to return and sing along side my friends,” she said. n

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services has opened its new regional full service real estate sales center serving South Allegheny and Washington counties, and the surrounding area. The sales professionals of the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Route 19 South/Galleria office and the company’s South Hills/USC office have moved to the new, expanded location in the retail center of The Shops on Washington at 1630 Washington Road next to where Trader Joe’s is opening its new store.

The new office houses more than 150 experienced sales profes-sionals and provides state-of-the-art computer equipment offering the sales team such services as LeadRouter, a lead generation system that turns email inquiries into cell phone messages within seconds so buyers can be helped immediately, and HomeBase, an online transaction management system for agents and their cli-ents, among many other industry leading technological tools.

“We have confidence in the viability of this area’s real estate marketplace, and the expansion into the new regional sales cen-ter was necessary to support future growth and to service these

communities,” said George H a c k e t t , p r e s i d e n t of Coldwel l Banker Real E s t a t e S e r-vices. “We are ensuring that our sales professionals have the tools to provide our customers and clients with the services that are required in today’s technology-driven real estate environment.”

“Employing the latest technology to benefit buyers and sellers, plus a full service approach to real estate sales, the new office is positioned to offer a comprehensive level of real estate service unsur-passed in suburban South Allegheny County,” said David Bruckner, manager of the new Coldwell Banker South Hills office. n

For more information, visit PittsburghMoves.com or see ads beginning on page 84.

WOMEN of Southwestern PA, Inc., a non-profit 50l(c)(3) organization, has held

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Members of the Junior Mendelssohn Choir


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USC Grads Film LocallySeven Upper St. Clair students got a taste of Hollywood this summer when they

had the chance to star in “Bad Kids,” a short film by Upper St. Clair graduates Peter Rosati and Dominic Rodriguez.

Peter, a 2010 USC grad and student at Emerson College in Boston, and Dominic, a 2009 USC grad and student at Pittsburgh’s Point Park University, wrote “Bad Kids” while at school this year. Working long distance, the two used Skype and the telephone to work out the details of the script.

The story is about seven kids who run away from home, in part to help one of the boys keep his mind off troubles at home. Playing the part of the seven boys are Jack de la Parra, Ethan Bowman, C.J. Hess, Anthony Rach, Maxwell Turnwald, Sheb Rosati, and Liam Carse. Ranging in age from nine to 13, the enthusiastic actors came to the set each day with a lot of energy.

One of the actors’ favorite experiences on the set was the “food fight,” a scene that Dominic also enjoyed. “It was fun,” said Dominic, “and a little crazy.” Filming was done locally at a private residence in Upper St. Clair and a private residence in Cecil.

Dominic, who is majoring in film with a con-centration in directing, said that his directing class helped a lot when making the film, as did Peter’s patience with the young actors. In addition to Rosati and Rodriguez, also working on the film were cinematographer Corey Sweazon, cameramen Randy Smith, Brian Fuller, Zach Kaigler, and Corey Kincaid and film editor Nathan Inglesby (all Point Park College students).

In a room filled to capacity, the film premiered on August 31 at the C&RC and has been submitted to the Three Rivers Film Festival. n

Spotlight on USC’s Colin BurnsSince opening the doors in 1981, the Center for Theater Arts (CTA) has been

dedicated to a mission of offering high quality performing arts instruction and committed to providing all students with an opportunity to improve their self-image and self-confidence through artistic expression. The CTA has students who enter its programs with a wide range of training—those with only a mild curiosity to those with natural ability.

Center for Theater Arts executive director Billy Hartung is dedicated to offering performing arts training in a dynamic classroom setting and to teaching beyond the walls of the CTA. As the Center enters its fourth decade of operation, those involved with the curriculum inspire young students to reach for the stars, in any occupation. The CTA recognizes USC’s Colin Burns.

Colin’s mom reflected on the arts education that has impacted Colin’s life. “I know that Colin’s participation in performing arts was central to his experience growing up in the South Hills. In addition to providing performance opportunities, the Center encouraged Colin to develop his own strengths, confidence, and resilience. Now that Colin is in college, I am watching as he discovers how his theater skills will serve him well in a number of professional areas he might choose to pursue.”

Colin responded by email. “I started taking classes at the Center while in seventh grade, performing in The Wiz, Mamma Mia, and High School Musical. My introduction to theater at the Center inspired me to get involved with the drama program at USCHS, where I performed in Singin’ In The Rain, Inherit The Wind, Brigadoon, Arsenic and Old Lace, and The Music Man. I continued at the Center throughout high school, appearing in Bye Bye Birdie, Pippin, and Once On This Island. I know that the skills I learned and the friends I made at The Center for Theater Arts will stay with me for the rest of my life!”

The Center is very proud of Colin Burns and wishes him continued success in his future! n

See ad for Center for Theater Arts on page 31.Note: Community submissions for this feature will remain on file until published.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY’s “Traveling with TODAY” submission requirements: Sub-mit clear, close up, high resolution digital photo of USC resident(s) holding TODAY magazine. Email the following information to [email protected]:

Name(s) of resident(s) or group, and • specific location of photographObjective of visit—leisure, volunteer, • career, school, etc.Attach digital photo (jpg format)• List “TODAY” in email’s subject line

Colin Burns (right) with Tori Pasternak and Caroline Hartung

Dominic Rodriguez and Peter Rosati at the premiere of “Bad Kids”


Advertiser PageAdvertiser Page Action Builders ..................................................................................... 25* Amel’s Restaurant ................................................................................. 22 Arbor Tree Specialist, Inc. ...................................................................... 41 BISTECCA - STEAKHOUSE - WINE BAR .............................................. 23* Boehmer Heating & Cooling Company ................................................ 35 Brentwood Bank ..................................................................................... 7 Brookside Lumber ................................................................................. 55 C.W. Carlson Contractors, Inc. ............................................................. 37* Café Georgio ......................................................................................... 23* Calabro Tire & Auto Service ................................................................. 39* Catalucci Painting & Restoration, Interior & Exterior ............................ 81 Center for Theater Arts .......................................................................... 31 Chatham University ................................................................................ 2 Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC .......................................... 39

* Clark Renovations, Inc. ........................................................................... 2* Coffey Contracting Company ................................................................ 65* Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc. Corporate ................Back outside cover* Coldwell Banker–The South Hills Office ..................84, Back inside cover Coldwell Banker–Lynn Dempsey .......................................................... 79 Community & Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview Park ..................... .63 Country Meadows Retirement Communities ....................................…71* Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ......................................................................... 45 Danielle D. Thomas, L.M.T. Massage Therapist .................................... 75 Doohan Personal Fitness ...................................................................... 74 Edible Arrangements ............................................................................ 23 First Church of Christ, Scientist ........................................................... 65* Friendship Village of South Hills ............................................................ 4 Harmony Hospice ................................................................................. 70* Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. ............................................................................ 69 Holistic Approach 4 Life ....................................................................... 74 Howard Hanna–Maureen Cavanaugh ................................................... 35 Howard Hanna–Bob Ellison .................................................................. 37* Howard Hanna–Susan Highley ............................................................. 13* Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath ............................................................. 55 Howard Hanna–Frankie J. Kunselman .................................................. 25

IAOMO Salon ....................................................................................... 31 JAB Jewelry Designs ...................................................Front cover, 14, 15 Johnny’s Tire and Auto ......................................................................... 79* Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ..................................................... 47 Lakeside Primary Care, a practice of The Washington Hospital ............. 75 Learning Express Toys .......................................................................... 22 Louis Anthony Jewelers ................................................Front inside cover* Manalo, Larry E., D.M.D. ...................................................................... 46 Modern Piano ....................................................................................... 22 Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy .................................... 81 Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................ 20 Orthodontics by Dr. Reitz & Dr. Troy ..................................................... 47 Pediatric Alliance, P.C. ......................................................................... 46 Pediatric Dentistry South ...................................................................... 47

* Piccolina’s Restaurant ........................................................................... 47* Pinebridge Commons Associates ......................................................... 46 Pittsburgh Foundation, The .................................................................. 72 Pittsburgh Shoulder to Hand Center ...................................................... 13 Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company .......................................................... 41 Port Authority Services ......................................................................... 81 Premier Home Design Center ............................................................... 25 Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society Community ....................... 73 RADIANCE–A Private Outpatient Surgery Center, LLC .......................... 68* Rusmur Floors ...................................................................................... 83* St. Clair Hospital .............................................................................. 3, 67* Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ............................................................. 7* Sesame Inn ........................................................................................... 23 South Hills Endoscopy Center ................................................................ 1 South Hills OBGYN, Drs. Rankin & Warner, MC, FACOG ..................... 69* State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy .................................................... 46 StonePepper’s Grill ............................................................................... 22 Stout Flooring ........................................................................................ 4* The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts ................................................. 45 West Penn Allegheny Health System ...................................................... 9 Yoga Innovations, LLC ......................................................................... 74

Advertiser Index

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 RoadUpper St. Clair, PA 15241

Physics Tutor—High School and College

David L. Wallach, Retired University Professor

Phone: 724-941-9696

Upcoming guides for the Spring 2012 issue include Celebration, Dining, and

Home Improvement. Ad space reservation deadline is January 16, 2012.

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue, have contributed their support for a

minimum of 34 issues. Thank you.

Classifieds


17 Years of CommunitYserviCe

www.twpusc.org/magazine

Winter 2011

82 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2011 ... meeting your needs TODAY, Tomorrow, and into the Future

As 20-year residents of Brookside Farms, we love to advertise in our local community’s magazine—and with great results, too!”

—Jim and Lisa Reiland, owners of Amel’s Restaurant

For more than 50 years, Rusmur Floors has been providing the South Hills and Pittsburgh area with the � nest in residential and commercial � oor coverings. Our vast inventory of carpeting, area rugs, hardwoods, laminates, vinyls and ceramics assures satisfaction with every application, style and budget.

Rusmur Floors is your one-stop, complete-service, � oor covering provider featuring free in-home shopping and estimating, an in-store design sta� and superior, expert installation. Plus, Rusmur re� nishes hardwood � oors and binds remnant carpets!

Rusmur Floors, with � ve beautifully stocked locations, invites you to call or visit the one nearest you – or simply click on www.rusmurfloors.com today.

500 Station Street ■ Bridgeville (51 years of quality) ■ 412.221.6366 Hours: M, W, Th 9:00 am - 9:00 pm ■ T, F, Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ■ Closed SundayLive here? So do we! Moon ■ Murrysville ■ North Hills ■ Whitehall

You Stand on Our Good Name Every Day.

The South Hills Office1630 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 • (412)833-5405

Jack & Joanne Benson

Barbara Cusick

Dal Goldstein

Lynn Dempsey

Eleanor Carpenter Marie Carpenter

Coldwell Banker

Jay Clemens

Bonnie Frear

Hope Bassichis

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Nancy Beaulieu Norma Bishop Noel Bliman

Bonnie Byrnes Anita Crago

Kathy Enick

John Geisler Genie Gooding Leigh Harkreader

Janine Dillon

Nancy Heffernan

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

©2011 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.

Sydnie Jones

Arlene Murray

Sue Kelso Kathi Kernan Jane Krauth

Julie Leslie

Mary Torchia

Carmela Viviano Mary Ann Wellener David Bruckner,Manager

Real estate seRvices

Joyce Lewis-McDonough

LOCAL TRADITIONS

Toni Petrucci Kathy Sekeras Jim Walsh

Carol Marks

Tulla Rakoczy

Elaine Krelis

Judy Hlister

The South Hills Office1630 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 • (412)833-5405

ECRWSS* CARRIER ROUTEPOSTAL CUSTOMER

Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

Presorted StandardU.S. Postage

PaidPittsburgh PA

Permit No. 206

This magazine was printed on recycled paper.

1820 McLaughlin Run RoadUpper St. Clair, PA 15241

COLDWELL BANKER

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©2011 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.

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New Office, New Location, Same Great Agents!Introducing the New Coldwell Banker South Hills!

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WINTER 2011