WINTER 2023 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

Winter 2023 Guides

Winter Festivities

Life Planning

We make little things to celebrate big things...

twpusc.org/usctoday

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

The Howard Hanna Upper St. Clair Office is

ready to help with all of your real estate needs!

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

Robbins Bobbitt

Associate Broker

Bonnie Bagay

Del Burrell

Jim Clark

Kerrie Constantini

Lauren Ganoe

Janet Hensler

Diane Horvath

Frankie Kunselman

Dana Logan

Chris Longenecker

Marie Mageras

Amanda Nasman

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Located at 2589 Boyce Plaza Road in Upper St. Clair

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South Hills Endoscopy Center is an independently owned and operated endoscopy center,

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“Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life.”

You are eligible for a screening colonoscopy at age 45.

Check with your insurance to confirm coverage.

• We treat acid reflux, heartburn, ulcers, diarrhea, liver & pancreas disease, fecal

incontinence, change in bowel habits and hemorrhoids

• Physicians on staff at St. Clair Hospital and UPMC Mercy Hospital

• “Compassionate, personalized Anesthesia Care”

Most insurance carriers accepted

Call today 412.232.8104

2589 Boyce Plaza Road

Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

412-838-0400

2589 Boyce Plaza Road


412-838-0400 412-232-8104

100 Stoops Drive, Suite 280

Monongahela, PA 15063

724-565-5164

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

WHO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE!

Barbara Baker Team *

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Lynn Banbury

412-680-5000

Justin Christy

412-478-7474

Brian and Karen

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Bob Dini

412-855-2058

Liz Hoyson

412-298-8825

Kim Lanphear

412-480-5830

Elva Marotta

412-287-4542

Jennifer Orebaugh

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Heather Orstein

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Nila Porter

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JoAnn Robb

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Michelle Schocker

& Ruth Weigers ***

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The Watson Team ******

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Let us help you find your way home!

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

Mt. Lebanon Regional Office

412.833.7700

1679 Washington Road

Upper St. Clair Office

412.831.0100

1797 N. Highland Road

WE’RE HIRING!

THE BEST AGENTS WORK HERE AND SO SHOULD YOU!

Call Micole Tucker or Cathy Burkett for more information.

Micole Tucker,

Manager

412-861-3095

Cathy Burkett,

Assistant Manager

412-551-9616

The Preferred Realty

*Barbara Baker Team - Terry Abbott, Barbara Baker, Kate Clemons, Daniel Colaizzi, Doug Craig, Kim Kocher, Kristen Shaw, Stephanie Stewart

**Brian and Karen Cummings Team - Thomas Purcell, licensed assistant

***Michelle Schocker/Ruth Weigers - Krista Pratley, Karen Coyle, Garrett Weigers, Ryan Campbell, Judy Ward, Kelly Rackley, Hanna Ketterman

****Melissa Shipley - Tawnya Baier, Jordan Gropp & Glen Mercer, licensed assistants

*****Adam Valeriano - Taylor Brooks & Lindsay Leistner, licensed assistants

******The Watson Team - Christina Watson & Lisa Watson

©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Winter 2023 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 3

Winter 2023 • Volume 29 • Issue 4

twpusc.org/usctoday • usctoday@usctoday.org

16 Happy Holidaze

50 Your Library has Gone to the Dogs

Features &

Around the

Township

13 Dialect Dilemma

14 Working Together

79 Eliseo Rael Wins Emmy

82 Girl Scouts Earn Bronze

Award

Township

34 USC Roundabout —It’s a Hit

35 Trash & Recycling Changes

Start Soon

39 What’s Going on in USC?

45 Winter Storm Emergencies

School District

60 Boyce Named a 2023 National

Blue Ribbon School

61 Halls of Fame Welcomes Nine

64 #HaveYouHeard?

67 USC Girls’ Wrestling: Making

History

Guides/

Directories

18 Winter Festivities

53 Pinebridge Commons

72 Life Planning

Photo Ops

38 Meeting Community Helpers

42 United Senior Citizens

63 First Day of School 2023

85 Block Party Fun

71 Homecoming 2023

The winter cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

is sponsored by JAB Jewelry Works. Turn to page

10 to discover why even Santa shops at JAB!

You can purchase a TODAY cover, too!

Contact usctoday@usctoday.org for

specifications and rates.

78 Herd Wintering at Brush Run

4 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Winter 2023

Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski, Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools

The award-winning, official publication of the

School District and Township of Upper St. Clair

Spring 2024 edition includes

Celebration and

Home Improvement guides.

Deadlines:

Articles–January 11

Advertising–January 15

Website: twpusc.org/usctoday

Email: usctoday@usctoday.org

@usctoday

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a not-for-profit

community magazine dedicated to promoting

the Township and School District of

Upper St. Clair by recognizing the gifts

and contributions of the people who live

and work here. This year marks 29 years

of our publication.

The 116th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR

TODAY magazine is made possible through

the combined resources of the staff and volunteers

of the Township and School District

of Upper St. Clair. Thanks are extended to

the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm

and efforts on this continuing project.

Steering Committee

Mark S. Mansfield, Assistant Township Manager

Paul K. Fox, School District Representative

Editors and Staff

Terry Kish, Editor-in-Chief

AnneMarie Kopach, Associate Editor

Sarah Beitler, Office Manager,

Marketing & Advertising Executive

Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Dorothy Clark, Graphic Designer

Student Interns

Caleb Guarino

Miriam Gutensohn

Mark Mansfield Paul Fox Terry Kish AnneMarie Kopach Sarah Beitler Colleen DeMarco Kerry Turner Dorothy Clark

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a non-partisan

Township, School District and community

magazine. Political advertising and political

commentary are not accepted. The publishers

of this magazine reserve the right to reject

advertising or articles inconsistent with the

objectives, image and aesthetic standards of

the magazine.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is published and

mailed quarterly to residents and businesses in

Upper St. Clair Township. Extra copies of the

magazine are available at the Township of

Upper St. Clair Municipal Building and

Township Library. If you did not receive a copy

in the mail, call 412-851-2851.

Subscription Information

If you know someone living outside the

Township who would enjoy receiving our community’s

official magazine, please send a $12

check payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY,

to cover mailing and handling for the next four

issues, with their name and address, including

zip code, to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820

McLaughlin Run Road, USC, PA 15241. Add

$10 to cover international mailing.

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will be

the spring 2024 issue and will be published in March

2024. 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


or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at

usctoday@usctoday.org

Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish

phone: 412-286-1214

Advertising Information

Office Manager Sarah Beitler

phone: 412-286-1363

fax: 412-851-2592

Ad file submission: dclark@usctoday.org

Errata

On page 43 of the fall 2023 edition, Leria Miles’

daughter Lucia’s name was erroneously omitted.

On the same page, Streams PTO president Britanny

Weiler was erroneously listed as Britanny McHale.

Board of School Directors

Township Board of Commissioners

Dr. Daphna Gans, President

Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large

Jennifer A. Schnore, Vice President Dante R. Plutko, Jr., Vice President, Ward 1

Barbara L. Bolas Pamela L. Enck, Ward 2

Kelly P. Hanna Robert W. Orchowski, Ward 3

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr. Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4

Michael R. Mascaro Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5

Angela B. Petersen

Richard I. Thomas, At Large

Hallie H. Snyder

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue:

Judge Ronald Arnoni, Cindy Brophy, Lindsay Dill,

Carolyn Jones Friedrich, Chris Gmiter, Sandy

Goldstein, Caleb Guarino (intern & YWG), Miriam

Gutensohn (intern & YWG), Dr. Mohammed Khan,

Jay Lynch, Geoff McQueen, Rep. Natalie Mihalek,

Rep. Dan Miller, Alex Pepke, Eric Satina, Shiv Singh,

Mary Lynne Spazok, Patrick Tolan, Mason Tupta,

Tina Vojtko and Tom Yochum.

Young Writers Guild (YWG) promotes and encourages

young writers in the Upper St. Clair School District,

grades 8–12, to provide articles and artwork of

interest for our community magazine. Email

usctoday@usctoday.org to find out how your student

can contribute.

The 116th issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is a

joint publication of the Township and School

District of Upper St. Clair.

Reproduction of this magazine, in print or web

version, in whole or in part, without the expressed

written consent of the Editor, is strictly prohibited.

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY



Phone: 412-851-2851

Fax: 412-851-2592

Email: usctoday@usctoday.org

Township : 412-831-9000

School District: 412-833-1600

Printed by Freeport Press

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Design by DMC Design, 412-824-7844

Copyright © 1994–2023. All rights reserved.


Named Top Dentist consecutively for 4 years in

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A Winter Note From the Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Welcome to the winter issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY! Even though

the days are shorter and the temperatures colder, the end of the year always

brings its own special magic and excitement. If you’re looking for things to

do during the holiday season, turn to our Winter Festivities guide beginning

on page 16. In addition to interesting articles, you’ll find a list of holiday

happenings around the area and information on how to order luminaria for

USC’s Light Up for Unity Night, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 10.

With the New Year comes changes to the Township’s trash and recycling

program. The article on page 35, along with the trash and recycling information

brochure that is mailed to each home, explain what you need to know

when you put out the trash in 2024.

Also included in the Township section (pages 30–52) are stories about

the McLaughlin Run Road roundabout, what to do during winter storm

emergencies, library and C&RC activities and Township reminders.

The School District section (pages 58–71) shares news about the most

recent inductees into the USCHS Halls of Fame, National Merit semi-finalists

and commended students, photos from the first day of school and homecoming

festivities and much more.

In a world that moves faster and faster, the traditions that we celebrate

each year provide an opportunity to slow down and connect with family

and friends. Whether your tradition includes celebrating Christmas,

Hannukah, Diwali, Kwanzaa or another holiday, the staff and steering committee

of TODAY wish you peace and joy.

See you in the New Year!

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski

Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Superintendent of Schools

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


Shannon, Dormont

Company President

Jazz Dance Team Member

Cancer Survivor

WHERE YOU'RE

MORE THAN

A PATIENT

stclair.org

Welcome to JAB Jewelry Works...Pittsburgh Local Gem

JAB Jewelry Designs is Now JAB Jewelry Works

Just in time for the holidays, this local, family-owned

jewelry store completed renovations on their new building. With

the space comes a rebrand, a fresh website, new partner collections

and much more. The JAB Jewelry Works team cannot wait

to share all that’s in store.

The journey so far

JAB Jewelry began in 1989 in the Clark building in downtown

Pittsburgh, initially serving jewelers as a trade shop for custom

work and repairs. Gaining recognition in the jewelry industry

for their consistent work, quality craftsmanship and integrity in

business practices, the small company moved to McMurray and

converted the business into a public service shop. Over the years,

the JAB team has grown, along with its customer base and local

reputation, requiring another move and subsequent renovation

to accommodate the expansion. At the heart of their success is

the unique ability to turn a customer’s ideas into a truly one-ofa-kind

piece of fine jewelry. JAB Jewelry has always been proud

to house their team of skilled craftspeople, talented artists and

brilliant designers—along with the industry’s most innovative

technologies—all under one roof. This ensures that all designing,

manufacturing and production is completed on-site, keeping

everyone’s treasures safe and quality control high.

New location fortifies vision

from raw materials. JAB hopes to honor this industrial spirit and

keep it alive as they inhabit the space, reimagining its capacity

for the fabrication of metal products. Along with full property

ownership, the move also grants the business a much-needed

spatial upgrade, more than tripling the square footage of their

previous rental building. The addition of multiple consultation

rooms ensures privacy for meetings between customers and their

designers as they discuss their cherished family heirlooms and

jewelry needs. The new space will allow the JAB team to better

serve their customers and fashion a more intentional guest experience,

one that reflects the mission of the company: to transform

life’s fleeting precious moments into lasting precious heirlooms

while upholding a commitment to quality craftsmanship and

customer involvement at each step along the way.

JAB Jewelry Works finds its new home in what used to be

a machinery manufacturing facility—an old factory revivified.

Like the machinery parts historically created in the factory, the

precious adornments now crafted there are casted and forged

The JAB team with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, plus the new family puppy, Pearl!


Showcasing masterpieces

While custom design is their specialty, JAB Jewelry Works is

proud to partner with exquisitely talented artists to offer an assortment

of ready-to-purchase collections to fit every taste. The Lika

Behar collection promotes a modernist look inspired by ancient

jewelry traditions, using gold and silver coupled with brilliant

gemstones. E.L. Designs offers handcrafted pieces in silver and

gold that become functional due to their versatility. Syna plays

with a variety of styles, crafting award-winning jewelry with a

creative flair. Janet Brum’s gold and silver pieces are created from

scratch with a variety of surface textures and finishes, often paired

with a delicate gemstone. The collection from Bertus Design

centers around bold, unique and rare colored gemstones. Kelim

Jewelry is crafted with sterling silver for a clean look, inspired by

elements of both Turkish and Swiss culture. JAB also offers the

eclectic and sophisticated sterling silver work of Zina. The enamel

work by Nicole Barr, following the French tradition, promises an

eye-catching pop of color in each piece. For classic and romantic

bridal jewelry, look no further than pieces of Coast Diamond.

from natural diamonds. They recently began offering permanent

jewelry, and it has become one of their most popular appointments.

What better way to celebrate friendship, family or romance

than with a permanently fixed bracelet or anklet? JAB also offers

a full range of repair services that are completed by their highly

skilled jewelers.

Shop members complete custom projects and jewelry repairs on-site.

In addition to these myriad partners, the JAB team is thrilled to

be an official retailer of the works of Paula Crevoshay, otherwise

known in the jewelry industry as the Queen of Color. With nature

as her inspiration, she crafts her masterpieces using the varied

color and light of gemstones as her paint, while also relying on

a scientific assessment of their properties. Crevoshay’s work has

been displayed in museums across the country and globe, including

the Smithsonian and Pittsburgh’s very own Carnegie Museum

of Natural History. Now, her work is accessible for personal wear,

available for purchase at JAB Jewelry Works.

Beyond custom design

JAB Jewelry Works is undoubtedly the leader when it comes

to custom designed jewelry and in-store shopping, but their services

don’t stop there. JAB remains at the forefront of industry

developments and offers free testing to distinguish lab-grown

Original factory crane hook, kept as a symbol of industrial heritage

JAB Jewelry Works has the experts to consult for all jewelry

inquiries, no matter how small. With over 30 years of experience,

there’s no better team to trust with your treasures. And with such

an exciting new building to explore, there’s no better place to shop

local and support the community this holiday season. Now you

know why Santa shops at JAB! n

JAB Jewelry Works is located at 531 McMurray Rd. in Bethel Park, Pa.

To read more, view the collections and shop online, visit jabjewelry.com.

Call or text 724-941-8300 to speak directly with the team.


TODAY

USC TODAY is celebrating our 30th

anniversary in 2024! Sharing news about

30 Celebrates

our community for the past three decades

has been both a pleasure and a privilege.

Years

To mark this special milestone, TODAY

wants to take a look back at what Upper

St. Clair was like 30 years ago through our

residents’ photos and stories. Please share

your favorite memories with us at usctoday@usctoday.org, subject line: USC Yesterday

and TODAY. And watch for the other activities we have planned for next year!

Long-time resident Sandy Goldstein sent us some of her favorite memories.

Looking Back on Our Years in Upper St. Clair

Sandy Goldstein

It was June of 1976 when we became

residents of Upper St. Clair. Moving into

a new Eddy Built home on Langport Drive

was great! Back then, getting to USC from

I-79, we needed to take the one lane bridge

on Chartiers Street in Bridgeville. Now we

have a new bridge to help with the traffic.

Wingfield Pines swim club was a short

walk from our new house and a wonderful

place to swim all summer.

Across the street from Wingfield Pines

was Mayview State Hospital and patients

there worked the fields planting corn.

Vivian and Tom Lesnett volunteered at

the Mayview gift shop, and we donated

cosmetics and candy to the gift shop from

our pharmacy.

When we opened our pharmacy,

Pinebridge Apothecary, we met many

people from the community, including

Kent Tekulve, Steelers football coach

Wingfield Pines pool


Chuck Noll, Ray Mansfield, Myron Cope

and Mario Lemieux.

When Mayview Hospital closed, then

Congressman Tim Murphy was able to

get the land for Upper St. Clair to build an

Environmental Education Center and the

Community & Recreation Center at Boyce

Mayview Park for everyone to enjoy. The

Miracle Field was added later with the help

from our own Sean Casey.

Trotwood West and the Cook School

Road land was being developed back then,

and Tall Trees and Springfields were just

being built. Consol Energy purchased

the land on Fort Couch Rd and Rt. 19 to

house their offices. Later they moved to

Southpointe, and Siena at St. Clair was

built in its place. Lots of new businesses

are now part of the landscape, and with

Trader Joes, Fresh Market, Whole Foods,

Giant Eagle Market District, Target and

It’s your move.

The Gold Team

is here to make it

smooth with our

36 years of

Realtor ® experience.

Each office is owned and operate independently

Aldi’s there are many more choices as to

where to purchase food.

The Upper St. Clair post office was

in the Township building when we first

moved here. We watched the new post

office being built across from Pinebridge

Commons.

I started substitute teaching when we

moved here, and Niles Norman was the

superintendent. The staff was great then

and continues to be great now. New schools

were also being built. Our children went

to Baker Elementary, then to Fort Couch

and then to the high school. The new

Boyce Middle School for grades 5 and 6

was built later; Fort Couch has only grades

7 and 8 now.

High school English teacher Tom

Harshman helped create the TODAY magazine,

and I worked on the advertising for

the magazine back then.

Our son, Russell, graduated from

Rensselaer Polytechnic with honors, and now

lives in Albuquerque, N.M. Our daughter,

Jodi Marcovitz, graduated from the University

of Pittsburgh and California University

with a masters degree in special education

and now works at Baker with the special

needs program.

Raising two children here has been a

pleasure!

Dialect

Dilemma

Jay Lynch

Growing up in our community prepared me well

for lots of academic and career challenges. However, we

had limited exposure to the diversity of regional dialects

that make our country so interesting. Back in the 1960s,

most Upper St. Clair teachers trained us to talk like TV

news anchors, with no hint of Pittsburghese. Of course, a

few like Mr. Turzai, our Fort Couch gym teacher, exposed

us to his strong ‘Burgh accent, telling unruly guys in the

locker room to “Stop clahnin arahnd and take a shar.”

Although many of our classmates were from other

parts of the country and the world, their dialects seemed

to melt away after a few years in USC. Except, of course,

for the kids from Texas, who proudly maintained their

accents, even if starting every sentence with “y’all” cost

them speech class points. As a result, when we graduated

from high school, we were generically well-spoken, like

Walter Cronkite. However, we could easily misinterpret

language when traveling to other parts of the country,

sometimes resulting in embarrassment or even threatening

a job.

When I was hired by a company located in Chicago,

I was invited to dinner at the home of my new boss, Mr.

Nelson. It was a kind, welcoming gesture. I knew I had

to be on my best behavior, as I wanted the job to last

for more than a few days. Proper etiquette was in order.

Everything was picture perfect in their lovely suburban

home. I was introduced to the family’s three beautiful

young daughters, who, in their charming Great Lakes

dialect, introduced the family dog.

“This is Peeachez (Pee-ach-ez).”

Since I was unfamiliar with dog breeds, I assumed

the dog was a Spanish Terrier, and the girls had given

him a Spanish name. So, while petting the dog, I used

my best high school Spanish inflection and said, “Hola,

Peeachez.”

The girls responded, in unison, saying, “It’s Peeachez,

not Peeachez.”

I was dumbfounded, and said, “Oh, I see. Peeachez,

right?”

The youngest daughter became frustrated and upset.

With a little tear in her eye, she ran to her father’s

side and asked, “Daddy, why’s this man making fun of

Peeachez’ name?”

My new boss straightened me out with some terse

words, saying, “Jay, the dog has black and white patches,

so they named him Patches.”

Embarrassed by my misunderstanding, I apologized

to the family. In an attempt to modify my speech pattern

to fit in, I turned to the family dog and said, “Gaash, I’m

saahre Peeachez,” which backfired, setting off more tears

from the youngest girl, who said, “Now he’s making fun

of all of us, Daddy. Make him stop!”

Preventing me from digging a deeper hole, Mr. Nelson

The Nelson girls and their pets, 1989

called me into a one-on-one huddle and advised me to refrain

from further attempts to become an instant Midwesterner. I wisely

complied, we had a pleasant dinner, and my budding career survived

the evening.

So, USC students, invest some screen time in regional dialect

videos and podcasts before you finish high school. You don’t want

to insult your future boss’s dogs or make their daughters cry. n

Holiday

Humor for a

Great Cause

THIRD

EDITION

This holiday season, treat yourself

and those on your gift list to humor

from local resident Jay Lynch. The

fun anthology benefits The Miracle

League of the South Hills, where

every child deserves the chance to

play baseball.

Order The Lighter Side of

Upper St. Clair on .

“Wonderful reflections on our community and some really

funny baseball stories.”

−Sean Casey, three-time Major League baseball All-Star, MLB

Network TV broadcaster and USC resident

“Having enjoyed Jay’s stories for years, I can’t wait to revisit

them in the book. Jay is USC’s humor historian and we’re

lucky to have him.”

−Steve Blass, Pittsburgh Pirates All-Star, World Series winner,

broadcaster and long-time USC resident

“Jay’s fun stories remind me of the wonderful years we

enjoyed in Upper St Clair.”

–Kent Tekulve, Pirates Hall of Fame pitcher, All-Star, World

Series winner and former USC resident


State Representative

Dan Miller

Office of the House Democratic

Majority Whip

Harrisburg Office

121 Main Capitol, Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 783-1850

Mt. Lebanon Office

650 Washington Road, Suite 102

Pittsburgh, PA 15234

(412) 343-3870

State Representative

Natalie Mihalek

40th Legislative District

1121 Boyce Road, Suite 2200A

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15241

724-942-2045

www.repmihalek.com

Facebook.com/RepMihalek

Working Together for Improved Urban Search and Rescue

Capabilities in Western Pennsylvania

Rep. Dan Miller and Rep. Natalie Mihalek

One of the core tenets of government,

whether at the state or local level, is

to provide for the health, safety and welfare

of the community. This starts at the local

level, with the brave men and women who

answer the call when we are in need. But

sometimes the requirements of emergency

response can go beyond the resources available

to one community, or even one county.

Unfortunately, our area has seen this

occur multiple times in recent history;

first, when the Fern Hollow Bridge collapsed

and again, earlier this year, when

the Norfolk Southern train derailed in

East Palestine. In both cases, the local

fire responders did their best—and did it

extraordinary well. However, both cases

called for specialized equipment or training

that simply was not available within

the local community.

Thankfully, in both emergencies, lives

were not endangered or lost because of

either the need for specialized equipment

or the time required to shift resources

from one part of the state to another. But

we may not be so lucky the next time a

disaster strikes.

That is why we believe it is imperative

for the state to help support local

emergency responders and help provide

the critical resources, tools and training

needed to protect our communities and

our neighbors.

As you may know, since the Fern

Hollow collapse, we have been working

together along with state Senators Jay

Costa and Devlin Robinson to improve our

urban search and rescue (USAR) capabilities

throughout western Pennsylvania.

In August, our plan to improve local

USAR was the topic of a joint Senate

and House Veterans and Emergency

Preparedness Committee hearing in

Pittsburgh. Among those who spoke were

local first responders who talked about

the fundamental gap that currently exists

because of our state’s broad geography, as

well as the need for a properly funded,

trained and equipped team in western

Pennsylvania. None of these challenges

are insurmountable with support from the

state. We have been working to obtain this

support and will continue to work toward

that goal.

Our plan does not seek to take

resources away from operations currently

in the eastern part of the state,

and we offer no objection to further

complementary support provided for such

technical rescues anywhere in the state.

But we are committed to making sure

that Western Pennsylvania has resources,

training and support that is as on-par as

possible with our neighbors who live five

hours away.

In an emergency, minutes matter.

Preparing ourselves to meet the unknown

challenges of tomorrow is a duty we

all share, and, when confronted with crisis

or calamity, we need to do everything possible

to ensure our readiness. Together, we

will continue to collaborate with local officials

and emergency responders to make

sure they have the tools and training they

need. And in Harrisburg, our bipartisan

team will continue to fight for the resources

needed to make our plan come to fruition.

We both want to thank all the local

firefighters and emergency personnel who

attended the August hearing and demonstrated

regional support for this build out.

And we both want to express our sincere

gratitude to all our firefighters, police,

EMS and emergency responders who are

working so hard to be ready for the next

emergency, the next call and, unfortunately,

the next disaster. n


RONALD A. ARNONI, DISTRICT JUDGE

District Court 05-2-20

Office: 412-835-1661

Fax: 412-835-4060

Hiras Professional Building

2414 Lytle Rd #200

Bethel Park, PA 15102

Outstanding

Citizens Award

It’s easy to be cynical today; to see

it, all we need to do is watch the news. I see crime, disputes,

negativity and despair in my courtroom every day. I think we all

could use a little positivity in our lives.

That is why I want to reward those who demonstrate the good

in our society. I want to honor people who strive to make our

communities better. I will be presenting two Outstanding Citizens

awards this coming winter—one will be for a Bethel Park resident

and one for an Upper St. Clair resident.

I need your help in identifying those individuals who possess

qualities that best exemplify an outstanding citizen. Please

take this opportunity to nominate someone who you believe

best meets the criteria by using the nomination form below. For

nominee consideration, a nomination form must be submitted by

Friday, Dec. 29, 2023. I will read all entries and choose the two

honorees, each being presented with a commemorative medal and

certificate. We will also pay tribute to the recipients with a photo

and an article about their accomplishments in a future edition of

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, as well as on local channels, Comcast

channel 7 and Verizon channel 42.

Thank you, in advance, for your help in recognizing that

person who you believe to be an outstanding citizen worthy of

this consideration. n

Outstanding Citizens Award

Nomination Form

This award will be presented to an individual who has consistently:

• Demonstrated excellent community leadership

• Made significant contributions to our communities

• Positively impacted the residents of our communities

• Shown generosity and unselfishness through his or her actions

Nominees should meet the above listed criteria and have resided in Bethel Park or Upper St. Clair, respectively, for at least two

years. You cannot self-nominate.

Name of Nominee: _______________________________________ Email: _____________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________

Phone #:_________________________

Describe the attributes and qualifications of the nominee and the reason(s) why you believe this individual should be honored

(use a separate sheet of paper, if necessary).

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Your name (nominator):_________________ Phone #:________________ Email: ________________________________

How you know the nominee: ___________________________________________________________________________

Return this application by Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, via mail to:

Judge Ron Arnoni

Hiras Professional Building

2414 Lytle Rd #200

Bethel Park, PA 15102 or

Fax your application to 412-835-4060 or send an email (with attachment) to heather.petronio@mdjs.pacourts.us.

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


Happy Holidaze

Tom Yochum

Over Labor Day weekend, with temperatures hovering in

the low-nineties, my wife issued her annual declaration: “It’s time.

Get the bins from the attic.” The kids and I were unaware, what

with all the sweat and sunscreen in our eyes, but the calendar had

flipped to September. While some families passed idle hours at

the pool or took one last trip to Dari-Delite, for us, summer was

over. There was most definitely going to be labor this weekend.

A pumpkin-spice beer in one hand and megaphone in the

other, my lovely wife oversaw the transformation of our house like

a fall harvest field marshal. Every available surface must conform

to one of the three S’s: seasonal, spooky or scented. I attempted to

get into the Halloween spirit by following orders like a zombie,

albeit an unusually tan one. As I staggered into our sweltering

attic to retrieve some plastic pumpkins before they melted, I had

a moment of insight rare among the suburban undead: “How did

we get here?”

We no longer let Mother Nature inform us of the changing

seasons. Target, Starbucks and Southern Tier now decree when fall

has begun. And even the majesty of autumn, along with the last

of our heat advisories, will prove ephemeral. As I contemplated

this in September, chocolate ghosts were already being marked

down to make room for candy canes and slimmed-down skeletons

were giving way to full-figured Santas. By the time you read this

in November, I trust that any remaining traces of Thanksgiving

within your house will be obscured behind inflatable lawn decorations

and faux-frosted windows.

Commercialization has long been a part and parcel of the

holiday experience and misgivings surrounding the corporate

calendar are nothing new. Yet the frenzy surrounding Seasonal

Addicted Disorder finds its apotheosis in modern parenthood. The

ever-increasing number of “holiday traditions” might shock older

generations, at least those without social media. Each month,

seemingly, gives rise to some new occasion for DIY pageantry.

And we’re not talking about connecting a few construction-paper

snowflakes. These are serious undertakings, requiring a staggering

amount of parental bandwidth and legwork.

Gone are the days when you could slap together a last-minute

costume for the Halloween parade or whip up a gingerbread house

that’s not quite to code and call it a day. A few short years ago,

much of the holiday heavy lifting was relegated to the schools

anyway. By contrast, today’s seasonal landscape is a constant, athome

side hustle for parents with young children.

From leprechaun traps on St. Patrick’s Day to bunny tracks at

Easter, even springtime now unfolds from one anxiety-inducing

project to the next. When my parents would celebrate St. Patrick’s

Day it certainly wasn’t near children. Occasionally we got a single

trip to McDonald’s for a shamrock shake and then they were on

to April. Easter meant a few dyed eggs and a modest basket. In

the 1980s there was one Easter Bunny: he lived at the mall and

got a smoke break every hour.

I am now a 42-year-old man who owns an Easter Bunny costume.

FYI: no cigarette pockets. In the weeks leading up to Easter,

I’m not only incognito at family parties, we also visit other furry

impostors and participate in multiple, neighborhood egg hunts.

And all of this is just the precursor to the Amazon overload that

spills out of their laundry-sized baskets. Deep within the recesses

of a mountain that appears to have been assembled by FAO

Schwartz and Willy Wonka, we at least try to leave room for one

book. Truth be told, though, these excesses pale in comparison

to the prime offender of holiday indulgence: The Elf on the Shelf.


This little hooligan begins his (or her!) month-long residency

within hours of clearing Thanksgiving dinner. Celebrating

Hannukah won’t get you off the hook, either, since the introduction

of The Mensch on a Bench. Like kids home on college break,

these imps lie around in their pajamas all day, rent-free, and create

a huge mess. The upshot, though, is the incredible power they

wield. Their nightly reports on each child’s behavior are said to

ultimately determine the fate of one’s holiday bounty. Admittedly,

I like this idea. Your home transforms into Big Brother’s

compound during December and your children, who normally

disregard any and all direction, become mildly obedient. Santa

has always had means of knowing if you were good or bad, but

now he’s outsourced all the watching and reporting. My wife

and I would happily provide a comfortable ledge in exchange for

services rendered, if this were the

extent of our responsibilities. Each

night, however, parents are charged

with both moving and rearranging

this customized snitch. Apparently,

elves can easily navigate red-eye

roundtrips in wintry conditions, but

have diffculty landing in the same

spot upon their return!

Ubiquitous sharing of these

increasingly elaborate elfin scenes

now requires keeping up with the

Kringles, so to speak. Elves cannot

simply rest after their journey,

but must return home to throw

raves, trash the bathroom, ransack

the kitchen, hang from a chandelier

and/or participate in general

debauchery. They really are like

college kids. I don’t know what’s

happening at the North Pole, but I

suspect the eggnog is flowing. Who

knows if it they even gave their reports to the Big Guy before

getting soused? Upon finally getting the kids to bed, parents are

then charged with planning and executing these “fun” scenes

night after night. Couples are now intimately familiar with

awakening in a cold sweat and shaking their partner: “Did you

move the Elf?” December is exhausting. Whatever happened to

Advent calendars?

If we could tone down the Instagram competition and minimize

the parental effort, I’d actually be in favor of expanding this

surveillance operation. The prolonged holiday excitement and

subdued behavior of children living in an atmosphere of dire

consequences is truly magical. So, bring it on. What else can we

add to our year-round arsenal?

Well, someone already beat me to Halloween, which now offers

Ghoul on a Stool. As long as he’s pinned to the stool, I’m in. Throw

in Turkey on the Settee and we’ve pretty much got fall covered.

But my crack team at DadCo didn’t want to stop there. Research

shows that there’s a 365-day market for cuddly espionage.

Tensions and tempers are often running high during the postholiday

doldrums. Who wouldn’t enjoy a hassle-free period from

January through mid-February? Introducing, Cupid Isn’t Stupid!

This pint-sized cherub comes with a shaved head, alarming tattoos,

crossed arms and a stony grimace. The message is clear, kids:

don’t even think about stepping out of line until Presidents’ Day!

Your peanut-butter filled chocolate will be replaced with a bag of

chalky conversation hearts. For an extra $14.99, parents can add

the “talking arrows” feature, which allows you to record personalized,

barbed audio threats: “Your sister wouldn’t have done that,

Billy” or “Sorry, Jenny, the Elf ain’t in charge no more,” etc. What

better way to usher in St. Valentine’s season of togetherness than

the dual pillars of love: shame and consequences!

The Leprechaun on the Otto-MON is our reggae-inspired solution

for March. Last spring’s mini-replicas of exhausted parents for

Mother’s and Father’s Day proved wildly ineffective in test homes,

but R&D is hard at work to get you to the end of the school year.

The mere proximity to these sacred days honoring their parents

will likely encourage discipline in your children.

All that remains is summer. Its seemingly endless supply of

waking hours and free time can push any home to the brink.

Our engineers hit this one out of the park. Coming soon: Uncle

Sam on the Divan. (An early prototype, Uncle Sam on the Can,

was rejected, despite his effectiveness with potty training!) Why

resort to modern supervision when we’ve harnessed the watchful

eyes of our combined Founding Fathers? These include periodappropriate

reprimands like “Don’t tread on your brother!” and

each evening he’ll recite a Bill of Rights (& Wrongs) to your bewildered

children. Your family can Slip n’ Slide into summer and

rest assured that kids who get out of line in June will be pretty

disappointed with what George Washington leaves under the

cherry tree on the Fourth.

Soon you’ll be able to find our entire line of holiday friends

at a store near you. Each set will be released months prior to the

actual holiday to coincide with your décor demands. Turns out

I’m a convert, or at least a capitalist. I’ve learned to stop worrying

and love the holidays.

As you gather ’round the Thanksgiving table this month, if

you should feel yourself drifting toward a place where family and

friendship mean more than crass commercialism, please remember:

Arbor Day is just around the corner. Those trees aren’t going

to decorate themselves! n


WINTER FESTIVITIES

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Miriam Gutensohn, TODAY Intern

From mid-November until just before Christmas is a very busy and popular time in Pittsburgh. Besides beloved holiday traditions,

there is so much more to do downtown or in the surrounding neighborhoods—from ice skating to concerts to numerous

festive holiday light displays. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate the season!

Highmark Light Up Night

Nov. 18

4–10 p.m.

Highmark Light Up Night ® makes its

much-anticipated return for its 62nd-anniversary

celebration with live entertainment,

holiday shopping, family fun and so much

more! Get ready for more fireworks displays

than ever, too.

highmark.com/about/events/highmark-lightup-night-2023

Pittsburgh Peoples Gas

Holiday Market 2023

Market Square

Usually opens Friday after

Thanksgiving and is over by

Christmas Eve

The tradition of German Christkindlemarkt

is coming alive! Walk through an

alpine-style village, shop holiday ornaments

in traditional wooden chalets and

enjoy a piece of apple strudel. After meeting

Santa, join in the fun of ice skating at

The Rink at PPG Place, just next to the

market.

downtownpittsburghholidays.com/holidaymarket

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place

The Plaza between Third Avenue and

Fourth Avenue

Nov. 18–March 5

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place transforms

into a spectacular one-of-a-kind

outdoor ice-skating rink.

ppgplace.com/directory/the-rink/

Spirits of Giving Around the World

Lobbies of PPG Place 1 and PPG Place 2

Nov. 18–Jan. 1

This enchanting display of life-size

Santas and original paintings captures a

whole world of Christmas folklore and

fantasy. The exhibit

comes alive

with a collection

of original

paintings, each

depicting holiday

celebrations

around the

world.

ppgplace.com/events/spirit-of-giving/

Steel Plaza Creche

Opens Nov. 18

This is the only authorized creche outside

of the Vatican in St. Peters Basilica.

positivelypittsburgh.com/creche-2/

Thanksgiving with the Symphony

featuring Randall Goosby

Heinz Hall

Nov. 24–Nov. 26

pittsburghsymphony.org/production/84664/

thanksgiving-with-the-sym phony-featuring-randall-goosby

The Nutcracker

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre

Benedum Center for Performing Arts

Dec. 8–28

The Nutcracker is one of the most beloved

ballets and sweetest family holiday

traditions. Enjoy sparkling snowflakes,

stunning costumes, and wonderful dancers

on their way to the Land of Enchantment.

trustarts.org/production/84898/the-nutcracker

Sing! An Irish Christmas


Dec.14

trustarts.org/production/91452/sing-anirish-christmas

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

Highmark Holiday Pops

Heinz Hall

Dec. 15–Dec. 23

pittsburghsymphony.org/production/84737/

highmark-holiday-pops

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

PPG Paints Arena

Dec. 16

transsiberianorchestratourdates.com/

Holiday Brass Spectacular

Heinz Hall

Dec. 19

pittsburghsymphony.org/production/91436

A Magical Cirque Christmas


Dec. 29–Dec. 30

trustarts.org/production/90351/a-magicalcirque-christmas

Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show

and Light Garden Phipps

Conservatory

Opens Nov. 17

This year, Phipps Conservatory is

transformed once again into a winter

wonderland displaying ‘Season’s Greenings’

with magical lights, props and endless floral

arrangements in a Winter Flower Show

and an outside Winter Light Garden.

phipps.conservatory.org/calendar/detail/

holiday-magic


Carnegie Museum of Art

Christmas Trees

Carnegie Museum of Art—

Architecture Hall

Nov. 18–Jan. 7

The annual installation

of the

Carnegie trees

is considered by

many the start of

the holiday season.

See the Hall

of Architecture

filled with towering trees, each lit to perfection

and trimmed with festive baubles,

gingerbread, glistening snow, and more!

carnegieart.org/exhibition/carnegie-treesholiday-splendor/

North Park Laser Show

alleghenycounty.us/special-events/events/

holiday-laser-show-schedule.aspx

Gateway Clipper Santa Cruises

Select dates in November and December

Bring the whole family down aboard

this Pittsburgh holiday tradition for a

special meet-and-greet with Santa Claus!

Aboard this holiday Pittsburgh riverboat

tour, the kids will enjoy a DJ dance party

and a special treat from Santa Claus! Kids,

get your Christmas list in order and we’ll

see you on the riverboat!

gatewayclipper.com/holiday-cruises/santafun/

WINTER FESTIVITIES

Kennywood Holiday Lights

Kennywood Park


Take a stroll among more than two million

twinkling lights, marvel at the tallest

Christmas tree in the state, and savor the

flavors of festive foods and holiday drinks!

Plus, there are rides for the kids and entertainment

for all.

kennywood.com/plan-your-visit/experiences/

shows---experiences

Dazzling Nights at Pittsburgh Botanic

Garden

Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens

Nov. 24–Jan. 1

Immerse yourself in the wonder of

the holidays in a 65-acre journey of aweinspiring

light experiences.

dazzlingpittsburgh.com

Pittsburgh Zoo Lights Drive Thru

Pittsburgh Zoo

Select nights starting Nov. 24–Dec. 30

Twinkle, shimmer

and shine

your way through

the season at the

Zoo Lights Drive-

Thru!

pittsburghzoo.org/

zoo-lights/

Christmas Light Up

Clinton, Pa.

Nov. 18–Jan. 1

Celebrate the Christmas spirit at this

drive-thru event that benefits charities in

the community.

findlay.pa.us/291/Christmas-Light-Up

Canonsburg Old Fashioned Christmas

Canonsburg, Pa.

Dec. 1–2

Enjoy a stroll through downtown

Canonsburg and surround yourself with

sparkling white lights and festive holiday

window displays. Shop for the perfect

Christmas gift at the Christmas Market.

canonsburgsoldfashionedchristmas.com/

Pittsburgh Zoo Penguins on Parade

Pittsburgh Zoo

Starting in December, weather depending

Waddling back into weather-permitting

weekends this winter, enjoy the Pittsburgh

Zoo penguins taking a walk outside the

Aquarium. Fun for everyone!

Penguins on Parade is dependent on

many conditions and may be canceled for

the safety of our resident birds. Please check

back regularly to see if Penguins on Parade

will be available on your weekend of interest.

pittsburghzoo.org/penguins-on-parade/

Pittsburgh Zoo Breakfast or Lunch

with Santa

Pittsburgh Zoo

Enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch

buffet, meet ambassador animals, write

a letter to Santa and deliver it to him at

the Zoo!

pittsburghzoo.org/event-breakfast-or-lunchwith-santa/

Overly’s Country Christmas

Westmoreland Fairgrounds

Select days starting Nov. 16–Dec. 30

Celebrate the season at Overly’s

Country Christmas ® , a nonprofit organization

operated mainly by volunteers who are

committed to creating holiday memories

with a unique, walk-around Christmas

Village.

overlys.com

Oglebay Festival of Lights

Oglebay, Wheeling, W.Va.

Nov. 9–Jan. 8

The dazzling drive-through experience

is lit up nightly from dusk to midnight,

including holidays.

oglebay.com/lights-drive

Trolley Museum Santa Trolley

Washington, Pa.


Guests have the opportunity to climb

aboard a restored streetcar that will transport

them around the museum’s two-mile

track. While aboard, visitors get to meet

Santa Claus, and a few of his friends may

show up as well!

pa-trolley.org/series/santa-trolley/

Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad

Museum

Gibsonia, Pa.

Opens Nov. 11

Enjoy the 35th annual holiday train

display.

wpmrm.org/?page_id=22


WINTER FESTIVITIES

The

Nutcracker

Thomas Jefferson

High School

Theater

December 8 at 7pm

December 9 at 1pm & 7pm

December 10 at 1pm

For tickets, visit

www.balletacademypgh.com

Kathy’s Music Recognized as the No. 1

Kindermusik Program in the World

Changing Lives Through Music, One Child at a Time

Kathy’s Music has been recognized

as the highest performing program

in the world for 2023 by Kindermusik

International, the global leader in music

and movement curricula for young

children. This prestigious Kindermusik

Top Program Award is a testament to the

school’s commitment to sharing the transformative

power of music and movement

with families in our community.

Founded by Kathy Morrison in 2004,

Kathy’s Music has been a beacon of musical

inspiration for Pittsburgh-area families for

nearly two decades. Kathy, a Kindermusik

accredited educator, has dedicated herself

to nurturing young children and instilling

a lifelong love of music. The school’s

offerings extend beyond Kindermusik,

encompassing private and group music

lessons that cater to a diverse range of

musical interests and ages.

Scott Kinsey, CEO at Kindermusik

International, emphasizes the profound

impact of shared music-making on

child development. “Intentional, shared


music-making is the best way to supercharge

whole-child development because

it stimulates all areas of the brain at once,”

he explains. “The shared aspect is the icing

on the cake as it leans into social-emotional

growth and critical bonding between primary

caregiver and child.”

Kathy’s passion for her work is evident.

She states, “Time spent on the floor making

music with the children is simply the

best part of my week. I am fortunate that

the thing I am so passionate about is also

my full-time job. Over the last 19 years,

my passion has grown into a school with

amazing educators who are equally committed

to our mission of changing the

world through music.”

So, what sets Kathy’s Music apart as the

No. 1 Kindermusik Program in the world?

Expertise. In operation for nearly two

decades, Kathy’s Music boasts a team of

dedicated employees with over 100 years

of combined experience teaching Kindermusik.

They understand the nuances

of child development and know how to

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh

4100 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-343-9333

www.balletacademypgh.com info@balletacademypgh.com

engage children at every stage of their

musical journey while actively involving

parents in the process.

Community-minded. At Kathy’s Music,

your children are not just students; they are

the future of our community. The school

is dedicated to using music to help each

child reach their full potential in school

and in life. Their programs foster selfconfidence,

collaboration and a genuine

sense of community.

Proven track record. Kathy’s Music

isn’t just a one-time success story; it’s a

continually flourishing institution. When

you entrust your child’s music education

to Kathy’s Music or embark on your own

musical journey, you can rest assured that

they will deliver on their promise of excellence

year after year. n

To learn more about the transformative power

of Kindermusik and other music offerings,

visit their website at kathysmusic.com.

See ad for Kathy’s Music on this page.

WINTER FESTIVITIES

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Gather at the Crowne Plaza

Eric Satina, General Manager

WINTER FESTIVITIES

Your Winter Fitness Wonderland: SWEAT PGH

Maintaining a fitness routine during

the winter is challenging. That’s why it’s

important to find a home for holiday fitness

with plenty of options. SWEAT PGH, a locally-

and woman-owned business, is the

fitness home for everyone, with many styles

to balance your workout, challenge your body

and deliver both mental and physical results.

SWEAT offers the region’s most diverse

and dynamic concepts with cycle, yoga,

barre, dance and power classes, all featuring

state-of-the-art equipment and all available

under one roof. This variety offers visitors it

all, from high-intensity workouts to yoga and

everything in between.

One of the biggest challenges of winter

fitness is dealing with the elements. SWEAT

eliminates this obstacle by offering indoor

facilities. You won’t have to worry about

slipping on icy sidewalks or braving freezing

temperatures. Instead, you can focus on

your workouts in a comfortable, climatecontrolled

environment.

Here are some of the most important reasons

to prioritize your winter fitness:

Boost your immune system. Regular

physical activity can strengthen your immune

system, helping you avoid common winter

illnesses like colds and flu.

Mental well-being. Exercise releases

endorphins, which can combat the winter

blues and reduce stress and anxiety.

Weight management. It’s easier to indulge

in comfort foods during winter, making

exercise essential for maintaining a healthy

weight.

Increased energy. Staying active can

help you combat seasonal fatigue and stay

energized throughout the day.

SWEAT’s diverse class offerings provide

many ways to keep your winter fitness on

track. Here are just a few class options you

can choose from:

Cycle

What makes SWEAT’s cycle classes so

special? We dim the lights, turn up the music

and get lost in the beat. The energy in the

room inspires you to push past your limits

while you jog, sprint and dance to the beat of

the music. This full body workout incorporates

weights and upper body work into each

class to strengthen the mind and the body.

All classes take place on Stages spin bikes,

the premier studio spinning bike.

We are excited to welcome our community back to Gather restaurant inside the

Crowne Plaza Hotel. Executive chef David Gasiorowski has been a resident of the South Hills

for more than 15 years and is excited to share his culinary experience with his neighborhood.

David studied at the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts and the Culinary Institute

of America in New York. He spent the 90s honing his skills in fine dining throughout various

restaurants around California. Once back in Pittsburgh, David spent nearly 10 years

at the Fox Chapel Golf Club, seven years as executive chef at the Peterson Events Center

and has been with us for over five years.

Gather Restaurant has reopened to serve breakfast and dinner seven days a week. David

and his team are re-energized and look forward to welcoming our community back to the

hotel for one-of-a-kind dinners made from fresh local products as

See ad on this page.

well as specialty cocktails. n

Located Across The Street From

South Hills Village

Open for Breakfast and Dinner

7 Days a Week

Yoga

Whether you need a major release, a

minute to breathe or an energy burst like

no other, SWEAT’s yoga classes range from

beginner to experienced. With Manduka yoga

mats and props, plus bala bangles and bands,

yoga at SWEAT is a truly elevated experience.

The studio also features infrared heaters offering

yogis an extra perk for their practice.

Full details on all levels of yoga are available

at sweatpgh.com/yoga.

Barre

Spend your winter doing some lengthening

and strengthening. SWEAT helps you

connect your mind to muscle using triple

barre, light weights and balas, sliders and

more. Barre classes are key to activating accessory

muscles that are necessary for every

expression of fitness. The barre studio is

equipped with three full barres, where most

studios have two. This allows for more options

and variations to target and strengthen

specific muscles.

Power

Grab those heavy weights and get down to

business during classes that will chisel your

body from head to toe. This strength training

class will elevate your heart rate and channel

your inner athlete. Using heavy dumbbells,

kettlebells, bands and escape bench you will

be sure to push farther than you ever thought

possible.

Dance

Burn, sculpt and party on the dance floor

during class. This dance sculpt concept keeps

you moving the whole time by incorporating

high-energy cardio (without the high

impact), unique sculpting moves and a full

body burn! Move to the beat of the music,

incorporating sliders, wrist and ankle weights

that will leave you feeling stronger and more

confident than ever.

SWEAT prides itself on its team of expert

instructors who are passionate about helping

you achieve your fitness goals. They bring a

wealth of knowledge and experience to each

class, ensuring you get the most out of your

workouts. Whether you’re a beginner or an

experienced fitness enthusiast, instructors at

SWEAT PGH will guide you every step of the

way. Add in the supportive community members

at SWEAT, and you’ll see that workouts

at SWEAT are one of the best gifts you can

give yourself this winter. n

SWEAT PGH is located at 100 Siena Drive,

Suite 110. Visit them at SWEATPGH.com or

follow them on Instagram @sweat_pgh.

See ad on page 21.


WINTER FESTIVITIES

Santa Claus is Coming to USC

On Saturday, Dec. 16, Santa Claus will be making his special annual trip to Upper St. Clair

Township escorted by the members of the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. Check the

USCVFD website at uscvfd.com for a schedule of the approximate time Santa and his sleigh will

be in your neighborhood.

Listen for the sound of the sirens and wait at one of the street corners listed on the schedule.

As always, Santa will have helpers from the fire department to answer any questions or concerns

that you may have.

Take pictures

of your friendly

neighborhood

Santa visit and

post them on the

fire department’s

Facebook page.

We encourage you

to also email your

photos (high resolution of at least 1MB each) to

TODAY at usctoday@usctoday.org, listing “Santa visit”

and your name in the subject line to help us identify

who sent them. Your photos might appear in a future

edition of our community’s magazine! n

Contact Santa Command at 412-835-3339 if you need

further information about Santa’s route after visiting the

website (uscsvd.com) for scheduled times.



WINTER FESTIVITIES

WINTER FESTIVITIES

TheCoderSchool McMurray

Shiv Singh

TheCoderSchool McMurray is a locally owned franchise

with a mission to bring STEM education closer to our community

and kids. We teach kids how to code and use their new found

passion as a stepping stone to think outside the box, as a way to

channel their ideas in a creative way and most importantly, have fun

doing it. At TheCoderSchool, we believe that teaching children how

to code empowers them to thrive in a digitally connected world,

equipping them with the tools they need to excel in various fields.

Founders and the franchise journey

My journey in the tech world began with a deep curiosity about

how technology could reshape industries and improve people’s

lives. Throughout my technology consulting career, I have been

at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies and trends, from artificial

intelligence and machine learning to blockchain and IoT.

Ranjita, my life and founding partner, and a leading oncologist in

Pittsburgh, believes AI has helped create algorithms that predict

cancer risks, improve diagnosis accuracy and develop more personalized

medicine. Ranjita and I strongly believe that technology

has the power to disrupt traditional industries, drive efficiency and

unlock new opportunities. Both our kids, Aahana and Aaryan, love

programming which allows them to express themselves by creating

their digital projects, games and interactive stories. We want

to share the same belief with our community and bring Silicon

Valley’s No.1 kids’ coding program to the area. That seeded the

foundation for TheCoderSchool McMurray.

Why coding?

What powers technology is code. Coding is a crucial skill for

children in today’s digital age, and its significance goes far beyond

simply learning how to program computers. It nurtures a range

of invaluable abilities that are applicable in various aspects of life.

Coding promotes problem-solving and critical thinking. It encourages

youngsters to break down complex challenges into smaller,

manageable parts and find logical solutions—a skill set that proves

useful in numerous real-life situations.

More importantly it is fun, especially during winter, as it’s an

indoor activity with ample opportunity to focus, build and share

your creativity with fellow coders around the country. Winter

breaks and holidays provide extended periods of free time that

can be an ideal opportunity to start and complete coding projects,

build websites, create mobile apps or work on a personal coding

challenge. TheCoderSchool could be your kids’ retreat to engage

and build projects while having fun at the same time.

Services offered

Coding takes practice, and we believe getting kids to code consistently

throughout the year is the only way they’ll really learn to

code. TheCoderSchool has a staff of hundreds of Code Coaches all

around the country, so we know a thing or two about mentoring

students in computer science. That’s why our after-school coding

classes for kids revolve around this relationship, providing a longterm

mentor in a Code Coach to teach kids code, from someone

who’s an expert coder themselves.

Our programs

Our core program for all levels is our flagship after-school program,

Code Coaching, which combines a super-small 2:1 teaching

ratio with individualized curriculum so kids are able to move at

their own pace, doing things that interest them most. While Code

Coaching is our premium program, we also offer a more traditional

Code Class for those looking for either software-driven or staticcurriculum

teaching in a larger ratio, especially during holiday

breaks, through our Coding Camps. We use Unity to create games

for a variety of platforms, including PC, mobile, console and VR.

What kids learn

We believe that every student learns in his or her own way, not

only in what they want to work on, but how fast and how much.

Our Coder Tree ® is a visualization of our students’ learning options

as they grow and a sampling of some of the topics we teach.

TheCoderSchool system

We’re part of a nationwide system of passionate owners in over

60 locations around the country, teaching over 6500 students

every week with the brainpower of more than 1000 expert Code

Coaches. We’re proud of the impact TheCoderSchool has had on

communities everywhere since our brand was founded back in

August of 2014. In short, we know a thing or two about teaching

kids to code—so let’s get to it!

In the ever-evolving world of technology, we are excited about

the endless possibilities that lie ahead. We are driven by a vision

of a future where every child has the opportunity to learn to code,

as it is an investment in their future and the future of our increasingly

technology-driven society. n

See ad on page 24.


WINTER FESTIVITIES

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Do you know your home’s value?

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WINTER FESTIVITIES

Dr. Mohammed Khan

DDS, MD, USC Parent

• Dental Implants

• Wisdom Teeth

• IV Office Anesthesia

• Serving Upper St. Clair &

Surrounding Communities

• Most Insurances Accepted

(724) 745-3333

1200 Ashwood Dr #1204, Canonsburg, PA 15317

3riversoralsurgery.com

Complimentary Implant Consultation by Mentioning this Ad

What Do Wisdom Teeth Have to Do with the Holidays?

Dr. Mohammed Khan, DDS, MD, USC resident and parent

Ever wonder why most folks get

their wisdom teeth removed? Wisdom

teeth are not actually for wisdom; they are

the last adult teeth to grow in our full set

of teeth. They are also called third molars,

and they often do not erupt correctly in the

mouth. Your dentist may determine that

your wisdom teeth should be evaluated

by an oral surgeon, and consider removal

from around 15 years of age or older. If

wisdom teeth are not removed, they can

crowd other teeth, leading to gum disease,

inflammation, bad breath, bone loss and

decay. Doing it early is beneficial because

early removal is easier and less complicated;

it ensures that the rest of your teeth

have enough space; and you can eliminate

the risk of serious infections which become

an emergency.

So why does it make sense to consider

wisdom teeth surgery during the holidays?

It is one of the best times of the year to get

the procedure done, for many

reasons. Young people are home

from school with their families

and can use existing dental insurance

benefits to take care of

this need before the end of the

calendar year and while they are

still covered under their parents’

insurance. In addition, getting

the surgery done while on school

and college break will not disturb

study time.

Wisdom teeth surgery is easier and

has a faster recovery than you might expect.

Most cases are able to be done with

general anesthesia in the office, and the

patient doesn’t feel a thing. Anesthesia is

needed because usually wisdom teeth are

buried in the jawbone. Oral surgeons are

experienced in giving general anesthesia

in an office setting. Many patients say that

they don’t remember anything about the

surgery itself.

The oral surgery team is there to make

sure that you have a safe, healthy, surgical

experience with minimal pain and discomfort.

They will let you know what to

expect after surgery and provide tips for a

quick recovery at home. You can prepare

by stocking up on your favorite soft foods

for the first few days after surgery and have

soft ice packs in your freezer. In most cases,

you will be back to your normal self in

three to five days, looking ahead to ringing

in the New Year! n

To learn more about wisdom teeth removal, see patient videos and

more, visit 3riversoralsurgery.com/wisdom-teeth-removal/ or scan the

QR code. See ad on this page.


WINTER FESTIVITIES

Upper St. Clair to Host Light Up for Unity Night

A Community Luminaria

Tradition to Embrace All

Join your neighbors and other USC residents at

dusk on Sunday, Dec. 10, for Upper St. Clair’s annual Light Up

for Unity Night.

For many years, the Upper St. Clair community has participated

in joining its neighbors in lighting luminaria during

the winter holidays. This year, the

Community Foundation of Upper

St. Clair and the Upper St.

Clair Band & Orchestra Parents

Association are coming together to

host Light Up for Unity Night to

celebrate our community and its differences. Regardless of what

holiday we celebrate, there are two things we find in common:

our hope for a more peaceful world and light to show us the way.

To participate, USC residents need only set out luminaria

Regardless of what holiday we celebrate,

there are two things we find in common:

our hope for a more peaceful world

and light to show us the way.

For questions or more information, visit uscpba.org or email fundraising@uscbpa.org.

Each Luminaria kit includes 12 candles, bags and sand. To order your Luminaria

kit, which will be delivered to your door on Dec. 2, use the QR code or visit the

USC BOPA website at www.uscbpa.org and click the “Order Luminaria” link

to order online. PayPal or credit cards are accepted for payment. Alternatively,

complete and mail the order form below with your payment. For more

information or if your business is interested in being a sponsor, contact Monique

Roberts at fundraising@uscbpa.org or call 412-953-8525.

2023 Luminaria Kit Order Form

(Order form and payment must be received no later than Wednesday, Nov. 29.)

Name: ________________________________________________________

on Sunday, Dec. 10, at dusk. Community members are further

encouraged to turn on their assembled holiday outdoor light

displays to fully engage in this community-inspired opportunity.

Luminaria kits can be purchased from all USCHS instrumentalist

and orchestra students, who will make and deliver

the kits on Saturday, Dec. 2. The

kits can also be ordered online at

uscbpa.org. The deadline to place

an order is Wednesday, Nov. 29.

In addition to selling single kits,

kits are also being sold in bundles

of two at a discounted price so that USC community members

can participate in the community’s Light Up for Unity Night

and also set out luminaria on another evening to celebrate their

event or holiday of choice.

Many USC neighborhood associations are

coordinating the sale of luminaria for their neighborhoods.

If your neighborhood association or

particular group is interested to participate, contact

Monique Roberts at fundraising@uscbpa.org.

Proceeds from the luminaria sale help support

the music programs in our schools and benefit all

instrumentalist and orchestra students at Upper

St. Clair High School. n

Address: ______________________________________________________

City:_________________________________________________________

State:___________________Zip: __________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________________________

Total enclosed: $________________________________________________

Price of Kit: $15/kit; or 2 kits/$25.

Make check payable to:

USC Band Parents Association

Mail to:

PO Box 112541



BASED LOCALLY IN

THE SOUTH HILLS

R E G I S T E R T O D A Y F O R Y O U R

FREE

LESSON

Piano▪Guitar▪Bass Guitar▪Ukulele

Voice▪Violin▪Viola▪Cello▪String

Bass▪Drums▪Flute▪Piccolo

Clarinet▪Saxophone▪Trombone

Trumpet▪Euphonium▪Baritone

Tuba▪French Horn▪Banjo▪Music

Technology

Lewis Music Studio is South Fayette's own

school of music! We enjoy making music

with students of all ages! Visit our website

for details about classes, lessons, summer

camps, instrument rentals, and more!

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H T T P : / / L E W I S M U S I C S T U D I O . N E T

Calabro Tire &

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(412) 221-4300

www.calabrotire.com

1476 Bower Hill Rd.

Family Owned Since 1941

1 Safe refers to wet braking when tires are new and worn to 3/32”. All tires eventually wear out and should be replaced. Based on internal wet braking tests from 50 MPH using new tires and

tires buffed to 3/32” in tire size 235/55R18 on a 2020 Toyota RAV4 against the Continental ® CrossContact LX25 and the Goodyear ® Assurance ® WeatherReady ® ; and in size 215/55R17

on a 2019 Toyota Camry against the Bridgestone ® Turanza QuietTrack tire and the Continental ® PureContact LS tire; using the MICHELIN ® CrossClimate ® 2 tire. Actual on-road

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2 Based on third-party snow traction tests using ASTM Test Method F1805-12, using tires buffed to 3/32” remaining tread depth. When compared to Standard Reference Test Tire (SRTT),

in size 235/55R18 the MICHELIN ® CrossClimate ® 2 tire scored 93 compared against the Continental ® CrossContact LX25 tire, which scored 63, and the Goodyear ® Assurance ®

WeatherReady ® tire, which scored 65; and when compared to SRTT, in size 215/55R17 the MICHELIN ® CrossClimate ® 2 tire scored 90 when compared against the Bridgestone ® Turanza

QuietTrack, which scored 62, and the Continental ® PureContact LS, which scored 59. Actual on-road results may vary.

Copyright © 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm; Sat. 8am - noon


Township

Commissioners

Township Administration

Daniel R. Paoly

President

At Large

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-862-5995

2025*

Dante R. Plutko, Jr.

Vice President

Ward 1

Matthew R.

Serakowski

Township Manager

Mark S. Mansfield

Asst. Township Manager &

Director of Administration

Mark P. Romito

Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni

Director of Planning &

Community Development

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-389-5187

2023*

Pamela L. Enck

Ward 2

Ed Poljak

Director of Information

Technology

George Kostelich, Jr.

Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter

Director of Library

Paul Besterman

Director of Recreation &

Leisure Services

Day 412-831-9000

2025*

Robert W. Orchowski

Ward 3

Public

Safety

Day 412-831-9000

2023*

Todd D. Burlingame

Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000

2025*

Ronald J. Pardini

Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 724-941-1199

2023*

Richard I. Thomas

At Large

Day 412-831-9000

2023*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

All business regarding the operation of the township is conducted

at the regular meetings of the Board of Commissioners.

Citizens are invited to comment on any township matter.

Complete board minutes can be found on the website at

twpusc.org. For more information, call 412-831-9000.

Jonathan Wharton

Chief of Police

Administrator

Extension

Matthew R. Serakowski......................... 2160

Township Manager

Mark S. Mansfield.................................. 2190

Asst. Township Manager & Director of

Administration

Jonathan Wharton.................................. 2380

Chief of Police

Mark P. Romito....................................... 2180

Director of Finance

Adam A. Benigni..................................... 5010

Director of Planning & Community Development

Ed Poljak.........................................................

Director of Information Technology

George Kostelich, Jr................................ 2710

Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter.................................... 2470

Director of Library

Paul Besterman....................................... 6560

Director of Recreation & Leisure Services

Ted Hale

Fire Chief

Keith Morse

Chief of Tri-Community South

EMS

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

Other Services

Police

Administration...........................412-833-1113

Tri-Community South EMS

Administration...........................412-831-3710

USC Volunteer Fire Department

Administration...........................412-835-0660

Animal Control.........................412-833-7500

Community &

Recreation Center...................412-221-1099

Cable 7.......................................412-831-1030

Emergency–

Police, Fire, EMS....................412-833-7500

Check out the Township’s website

twpusc.org

Follow the Township of

Upper St. Clair on social

media for the latest news

and announcements.

2023-2024 Township of Upper St. Clair Meeting Dates

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

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

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

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

no meeting in December.

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

• The Civil Service Board meets as needed.

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

• The Library Board meets as needed.

Meetings are held in the Municipal Building’s board room, unless otherwise indicated. Meeting locations are subject

to change; refer to the Township website at twpusc.org for more information.


Highlights of the Board of Commissioners’ Meetings

July 3, 2023

Approximately 17 people attended.

Recognition

• Commissioner Orchowski presented a Certificate of

Achievement to Dani Prunzik for her first-place win

at the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic

League (WPIAL) Championship for the 100-meter

dash and the 200-meter dash.

The Board

• Adopted Resolution No. 1746 Re. Approval for

a Grant Application through the Multimodal

Transportation Fund (MTF) of the Department of

Community and Economic Development (DCED)

for the Fort Couch Road Sidewalk Project.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1747 Re. Approval for

a Grant Application through the Multimodal

Transportation Fund (MTF) of the Department of

Community and Economic Development (DCED)

for the 2024 Annual Street Resurfacing Program.

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1302—

Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the

Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Add Standards

and Criteria for Short Term Rentals to the Board of

Commissioners’ Regular meeting on Aug. 7, 2023.


Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the

Township Code Entitled “Zoning” to Modify the

Standards and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the

RM District Restricted Light Industrial District to

the Board of Commissioners’ Regular meeting on

Aug. 7, 2023.

Approval of Contracts

• Ramp Construction Co., Inc.....................$184,000

Eighty-Four, PA

Volunteer Fire Department Main Station Re-roofing

• Gateway Engineers.............................Not to Exceed

Pittsburgh, PA $300,000

Civil Site Design Services for Morton Fields

Complex

Aug. 7, 2023

Approximately 14 people attended.

The Board

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1303—Zoning

Text Amendment to Chapter 130 of the Township

Code Entitled “Zoning” to Modify the Standards

and Criteria for Mini-Warehouses in the RM District

Restricted Light Industrial District.

• Remanded PLC23-1303—Zoning Text Amendment

to Chapter 130 of the Township Code Entitled

“Zoning” to Modify the Standards and Criteria for

Mini-Warehouses in the RM District Restricted Light

Industrial District back to the Planning Commission

for further study.

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-1302—Zoning


Code Entitled “Zoning” to Add Standards and

Criteria for Short Term Rentals.

• Adopted Bill No. 6-23 Re. PLC23-1302—Zoning


Code Entitled “Zoning” to Add Standards and

Criteria for Short Term Rentals.

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0004—Vibe

Salon—Unified Conditional Use/Preliminary and

Final Land Development Approval to the Board of

Commissioners’ Regular meeting on Sept. 5, 2023.

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0005—Kristin

Merck Photography—Conditional Use Approval to

the Board of Commissioners’ Regular meeting on

Sept. 5, 2023.

• Tabled Bill No. 7-23 Re. PLC23-0007—151 Orr

Road Consolidation Plan—Preliminary and Final

Subdivision to the Regular meeting on Sept. 5,

2023.

• Adopted Bill No. 8-23 Re. PLC23-0006—Milestone

Deerfield Plan of Lots—Preliminary and Final

Subdivision.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1748 approving the option

to be included in the Community Development

Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment

Partnerships Programs.

• Adopted Bill No. 9-23 Re. Reapportioning Certain

Voting Districts within Existing Wards.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1749 Re. Painters Run

Multi-Municipal Sanitary Sewer Interceptor

Transfer—ALCOSAN Regionalization Program.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1750 Re. 2024–2028

Capital Improvement Program.

• Authorized the Bid Rejection from Mid-America

Pool Renovation, Inc. for the C&RC Outdoor Pool

Re-Plastering


• Gemm Demolition......................................$23,900

McKees Rocks, PA

Deerfield Manor Pump Station Demolition

• Waste Management

Pittsburgh, PA

Refuse, Recycling

and Leaf Waste................. Monthly Cost Per Home

Year

(currently 7,150 Homes)

2024 $23.16

2025 $25.35

2026 $27.19

2027 $29.17

2028 $31.29

Stay up-to-date

with all the news

and reminders

around USC!

Sign up for the

township’s email

list by scanning

the QR code.

Sept. 5, 2023

Approximately 15 people attended

The Board

• Adopted Bill No. 7-23 Re. PLC23-0007—151 Orr

Road Consolidation Plan—Preliminary and Final

Subdivision.

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0004—Vibe


Final Land Development Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 10-23 Re. PLC23-0004—Vibe


Final Land Development Approval.

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC23-0005—Kristin

Merck Photography—Conditional Use Approval

• Adopted Bill No. 11-23 Re. PLC23-0005—Kristin

Merck Photography—Conditional Use Approval


Lifeline Physical Therapy—Conditional Use

Approval to the Board of Commissioners’ Regular

meeting on Oct. 2, 2023

• Adopted Resolution No. 1751 for Plan Revision

for New Land Development (Planning Module) for

PLC23-0006—Milestone Deerfield Plan of Lots—

Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval

• Adopted Resolution No. 1752 Re. Brush Run

Multi-Municipal Sanitary Sewer Interceptor

Transfer—ALCOSAN Regionalization Program.


• Insight Pipe Contracting, LLC...................$449,260

Harmony, PA

2023 Manhole to Manhole Lining

• Lauttamus Communications & Security......$84,188

Weirton, WV

Police Communications Center Upgrade

• Laurel Auto Group......................................$49,275

Windber, PA

2024 Ford F350 Super Duty 4x4 Cab & Chassis for

Public Works

• Glick Fire Equipment Company...............$800,860

Bird in Hand, PA

2024 Pierce Saber Pumper Truck for the Fire

Department


Former Pa. State Representative John Maher’s Impact on the

McLaughlin Run Road Roundabout

With August marking the one-year anniversary of the

McLaughlin Run Road roundabout opening, it’s time to look

back on the project and shine light on how former Pa. State

Representative John Maher’s efforts helped push it to completion

at almost no cost to the taxpayers of Upper St. Clair, along with

the help of many others.

The intersection where McLaughlin Run, McMillan and

Lesnett roads all meet was designated in past comprehensive

plans as an area that required necessary improvements. When the

Township wanted to improve the intersection, determining the

most effective solution and financing the upgrades were the next

steps. After the Township reached out to him, Maher pitched the

idea of a roundabout, and the Township conducted a study in 2017

to look at all options, eventually deciding that a roundabout was

the best plan of action instead of a more expensive conventional

intersection with turning lanes.

Maher, a former Upper St. Clair resident of 31 years and Pa.

State Rep. for over 21 years, was vital to getting the project funded.

He told the Township that if it moved forward with the roundabout,

he could get the necessary funds through the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to cover most of the

cost, saving the taxpayers of Upper St. Clair millions of dollars.

Without that funding, the Township would have had to pay for

the entirety of the project.

In the end, he helped turn the roundabout from an important,

but costly, Township paid-for project to a transformative

undertaking. PennDOT ended up covering nearly the full cost of

the project, which totaled $4.67 million. The Township paid for

minor upgrades, such as decorative poles at the intersection and

sanitary sewer upgrades through the project area.

“This wouldn’t have happened without the vision of the

Township,” said Maher. “Township Manager Matt Serakowski

and Assistant Township Manager Mark Mansfield deserve a ton

of credit for figuring out how to fit a square peg in a round hole,

while also reducing the cost of the project. This started out as a

traditional intersection, which would have cost an unbelievable

amount. Over time, the idea evolved into a roundabout, and once

we knew it fit and could be more affordable, I needed to help get

this done.”

“We got the commitment we needed from PennDOT, and

PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Cheryl Moon made sure

that was followed through on. Nothing like this gets done because

of one person, it really is a team effort. Now that it’s done, it’s so

clear that this was the right answer for those who live in Upper

St. Clair and also for those just passing by.”

This was not the first time Maher had given a helping hand to

Upper St. Clair. He had been involved in numerous projects in the

Township over his career as USC’s state representative.

(l/r) Gary Schafer, Rich Botz, Dan Flatz, George Kostelich, Mark Romito, Adam Benigni, Mark Mansfield, Matthew Serakowski, Pamela Enck, Mark Christie,

John Maher, Daniel Paoly, Richard Thomas, Cheryl Moon, Robert Orchowski, Dante Plutko, Jon Wharton, Carlos Andrade.


“Over John’s career as Upper St. Clair’s state representative,

he assisted the community in so many ways—from supporting

Regional Asset District funding for Boyce Mayview Park to

transportation projects like the roundabout,” said Serakowski.

“This particular project never gets off the ground without John’s

arduous work in Harrisburg. We applaud former State Rep.

Maher and his ability to have funding identified for this necessary

improvement, otherwise, the taxpayers of Upper St. Clair

would have solely been responsible for financing this regional

transportation improvement.”

“This resulted in something

that works really well,” said

Maher. “The Township took the

lead on figuring out the engineering

and making the project more

affordable. I was able to help

secure state funding, and I made

it my mission to get state support

for this project so the taxpayers of

Upper St. Clair wouldn’t have to

shoulder the cost of the project.

I couldn’t be more pleased that

PennDOT kept their commitment to get the job done even after

I was out of office.”

Maher, who is now a fellow at Cambridge University, is grateful

that he had the opportunity to impact the community in such

a direct way.

“It’s certainly very satisfying knowing I could provide a benefit

to Upper St. Clair residents, who I served for many years, and

especially because I was a resident myself for three decades. I

would also like to mention current Pa. State Rep. Natalie Mihalek

and Sen. Devlin Robinson, who are doing their best for the people

of Upper St. Clair right now, just as I tried to do for many years

before.”

“The previous intersection was burdensome and was a problem

during rush hour traffic,” said Mihalek. “Now, with the

roundabout, traffic flows better and it is clearly a safer situation.

Improvements like these occur because of the dedication and

professionalism of local public officials, which was certainly the

case here. It was an honor to work with the Upper St. Clair commissioners

and staff to get this done.”

“I am pleased to see this project come to life and I applaud the

mutual effort that made this roundabout a reality,” said Robinson.

“I look forward to seeing its completion benefit the community

for years to come.”

On the Township side of things, former Board of

Commissioners President Mark Christie played a big role in getting

the project approved despite the uncertainty around it, while

current Board of Commissioners President Daniel Paoly helped

guide it to the finish line.

“I think this was a great example of cooperation between the

state, PennDOT and the Township on a project that provides an

incredible benefit for the community,” said Christie. “It has turned

out extremely well and I think the citizens are very happy with the

result. This is an intersection with heavy traffic, and we alleviated

some major congestion that used to happen here every day. It’s a

tremendous improvement, and I think everyone is thankful for

the cooperation between the state, PennDOT and the Township.”

“I’d like to thank everyone who played a part in this, especially

“Now that it’s done, it’s so

clear that this was the right

answer for those who live in

Upper St. Clair and also for

those just passing by.”

— John Maher

former Rep. Maher, PennDOT and Township staff,” said Paoly. “I

think it’s a great asset for not only our community, but everyone

who travels through the area.”

The project was also made possible thanks to the efforts of

PennDOT staff—including Cheryl Moon, who is now the executive

deputy secretary at PennDOT, and Jason Zang, who is District

11’s assistant district executive for construction.

Up until this year, Moon was the district executive in District

11, which is where Upper St. Clair resides.

“PennDOT would like to thank Upper St. Clair and former

State Representative Maher for

their partnership and support

that allowed this and many other

projects in the South Hills to occur

over the past decade,” said

Moon. “Rep. Maher was instrumental

in aligning the funding

for multiple roadway improvements,

including the McLaughlin

Run Road roundabout. Upper St.

Clair presented the intersection

modification and was extremely

supportive in advancing the project through the difficult delivery

process. We look forward to continuing great transportation

partnerships with the Township and elected officials.”

“We at PennDOT, District 11, appreciate the partnerships and

teamwork between Upper St. Clair, the District and the many

stakeholders which contributed to the great success of the project,”

said Zang. “We also appreciate the patience of the community

who traveled this intersection daily through the construction

phase. The District is pleased with the significantly improved

safety and efficiently of the intersection as a result of this project.”

The project featured a free-flowing single-lane roundabout and

included the replacement of two structures, sidewalks, ADA curb

cut ramp, lighting and pavement marking installation, guide rail

and drainage improvements.

According to a 2017 PennDOT study on the intersection, it

found that the advantages of a roundabout included fewer conflict

points, slower speeds, easier decision making, the ability to carry

30% more traffic and no delays during off-peak hours.

In general, the study found that roundabouts resulted in a 90%

reduction in fatal crashes, a 75% reduction in injury crashes, a

30 to 45% reduction in pedestrian crashes and a 10% reduction

in bicycle crashes.

For an idea of how long the roundabout plan was in the

works, the Township conducted a study in 2017 after years of

comprehensive planning for the intersection and recommended

a roundabout to PennDOT once it was involved in the process

thanks to former Rep. Maher. PennDOT then hired Larson Design

Group (LDG) to do a follow-up study in 2017 to see whether a

roundabout was indeed the correct way forward for the intersection,

and they concluded that it was.

Preliminary engineering and design by LDG began in late 2017

and went through 2018. Final design and the bidding process

occurred in 2019 and construction began in March 2020. The

pandemic inevitably delayed some construction, but the road

remained open during most of the work and the roundabout

opened to traffic in August 2022. n


The USC Roundabout—It’s a Hit

Mary Lynne Spazok

As of August 2022, drivers now breeze through the

McLaughlin Run intersection at Lesnett and McMillan Roads,

thanks to roundabout construction by the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation (PennDOT). This five-year project,

from planning to completion, integrated drainage and sidewalk

improvement as well. Eliminated was the traffic signal, where

approximately 16,000 vehicles passed thru daily. Yasmeen

Manyisha, PennDOT spokeswoman stated, “With the existing

signal there were numerous delays without dedicated turning

lanes. The roundabout eliminates dangerous impacts and keeps

traffic continually moving.”

Ultimately, a roundabout is a highway engineering concept

meant to reduce pollution, accidents and congestion. Many

drivers are at first uneasy, but confidence and skill improve with

ongoing usage. The whirling roundabouts of New England are

known as rotaries; in New Jersey, traffic circles; and in the rest

of the English-speaking world, roundabouts. The design varies

depending on topography and required essential lanes. They function

well where traffic is reasonably light and drivers are familiar

with the concept, but can be an impediment due to inclement

weather, surrounding road construction, etc. Defenders and critics

of roundabouts cite a lack of education as the root cause of

roundabout incidents. Your highest duty as a motorist is to drive

your vehicle carefully and prudently. Your speed and manner of

driving must create a safe environment for yourself, pedestrians,

cyclists and other motorists.

While Upper St. Clair Public Works executes seasonal beautification

and plowing, PennDOT dictates design, maintenance

and proper signage.

To yield is the ‘Golden Rule’ of driving

roundabouts. The law states who must

yield the right-of-way; it does not give

any driver the absolute right-of-way

from any entry point. The word ‘YIELD’

on the sign means reduce speed, give way

or concede, and at times, stop. It silently

signals to check for oncoming traffic, pedestrians and cyclists. An

essential safety measure at crossroads not equipped with traffic

lights, it does not obligate you to stop. For that reason, do not

neglect the rules and carefully study your surroundings. Wait for

a safe gap in the flow of traffic. Vehicles approaching from the

left, already within the roundabout, have the right of way. Only

proceed when they pass or are far enough away at a safe distance.

What is the difference between a stop

sign and yield? Both mean almost the

same—you must let the other vehicles, cyclists

and pedestrians crossing proceed first.

A stop sign is a regulatory sign. Its unique

octagonal shape means completely stop.

Stop signs are considered safer at precarious

intersections and school bus stops. The yield

sign, an equilateral triangle, is less strict as you don’t have to stop

if you don’t see any ‘obstacles’ potentially crossing your trajectory.

Bullies are dangerous drivers. No one direction, such as

McLaughlin Run, is privileged. Law enforcement encourages

motorists approaching any intersection to slow down, yield to

pedestrians, cyclists and oncoming vehicles. Each of us has

encountered an aggressive driver who shows indifference to

USC Roundabout—one of approximately 9000 in the United States.

the safety or property of others. Considering

USC safety, I casually surveyed a

Springfield resident, a Pinehurst resident,

a USPS postal carrier and an on-the-go

mother of four active children. Their

number one concern was drivers who

speed. Second was lack of respect for signage

and traffic signals. Effective caution

cues such as rumble strips and flashing beacons aid in long-term

traffic-calming solutions; 80% of speeders will slow down with

speed reduced by 10 to 20% and overall compliance improves

by 30 to 60%.

The roundabout is a success, but driver negligence and reckless

behavior may cause needless misfortune. Example: I was about

to enter the roundabout from McLaughlin Run to Bridgeville.

About to proceed, I witnessed a commercial panel truck (from

McMillan) speed through the roundabout at over 30 mph,

followed by a tailgating vehicle who, without delay, piggybacked

through. Yet again, a truck hauling stone entered from

McLaughlin, did not reduce speed and sped through. Could either

have been able to steer clear of pedestrians, cyclists, wildlife such

as deer or a disabled vehicle?

For Your Consideration

When approaching a roundabout:

• Slow down.

• Observe signage and pavement markings.

• Check for pedestrians, cyclists, wildlife within your trajectory.

• Look to your left before proceeding.

• Never make a left turn to enter as this will place you facing

oncoming traffic.

• Vehicles within the roundabout have the right of way.

• Proceed when a safe gap in traffic occurs

When traveling within a roundabout:

• Always stay to the right of the center island.

• Be alert to trucks, trailers, oversized vehicles.

• Avoid last minute lane change in a multiple-lane roundabout.

• Do not stop unless it is the only way to safely avoid a collision

or other danger.

When exiting a roundabout:

• Maintain a slow speed.

• Respect pedestrians, cyclists.

• Do not accelerate until you are beyond the pedestrian crossing

at your exit.

Be a savvy citizen. Roundabouts are about courtesy, civility

and executing proper protocol. n


Trash and Recycling Changes Start Soon

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, Upper St. Clair, along with many other

South Hills municipalities, will begin a new refuse and recycling

contract with Waste Management (WM). Given the changes in

the waste collection industry, there will be new requirements as

to how much waste and recycling will be collected at curbside.

Below are some of the key highlights and changes that will go

into effect at the beginning of next year:

• Normal refuse collection will be fully automated and trash

outside of the cart will no longer be collected.

• Only one Township-issued trash cart and one recycling cart

will be included in the regular contracted service.

• Waste Management will collect an additional WM stamped

trash cart that was purchased before Jan. 1, 2024, for no

extra fee, and/or an extra USC recycling cart (maroon lid)

previously issued by the Township.

• If you anticipate your household needing more than one

trash cart each week and you do not already have an

extra WM trash cart, you can purchase an additional

one directly from WM for a one-time fee before the

end of the year. Additional trash carts purchased after

Jan. 1, 2024, will be subject to the annually adjusted

fee ($110 for 2024). To purchase an additional trash

cart from Waste Management, call 1-800-866-4460 or

855-852-7110.

• To receive this consideration, your additional trash or

recycling cart must also be registered with the Township

by calling 412-831-9000 ext. 2710 or emailing eperthener@

twpusc.org. Include the type of extra cart your household

is registering, and name, address and phone number.

• On the left in the photo below, you will see the USC recycling

cart (maroon lid), and on the right, you will see the

USC refuse cart (black lid) issued to each household.

• Please note that if you purchase an extra trash cart from

WM, it will be a Waste Management stamped cart, similar

to the picture at the bottom of the page (96-gallon cart

pictured), although the color may be different.

• Up to two bulk items will be collected once per month on

USC’s designated week for bulk item collection. Bulk items

include, but are not limited to, mattresses, chairs, bicycles and

other items too large to fit into your regular cart.

• Yard waste collection will remain relatively unchanged under

the new contract. Leaf and yard debris should be placed at the

curb in compostable paper bags during the scheduled curbside

yard waste pickups, which will take place once in the spring

and five times in the fall. The Township will also continue to

accept leaf and yard waste at the Boyce Compost Site on Boyce

Road (next to Ardolino’s), once per month, excluding January

through March. See the Township’s calendar for exact dates.

• To help accommodate household’s recycling needs, the Township

will be ordering a number of 96-gallon recycling carts

for households that may wish to upsize from the standard

65-gallon container.

• Glass will again be included in recycling, but the successful

drop-off program at Village Square Mall will remain an option.

• Additional services, such as house cleanouts, disposal of construction

materials, etc., will still be available directly through

Waste Management for an additional fee.

Tips

• If you have large or bulk items around the house that you

need to get rid of, the time to do that is now—or by the

end of the year. Currently, you can put extra trash outside

of the container and it will be picked up. Starting next year,

extra items outside of the container will not be collected.

• If you do not have a trash compactor, you may want to consider

that purchase to maximize your refuse container capacity.

• If you do not already have one, it could be a good time to

consider using a mulching lawn mower. A mulching lawn

mower redistributes fine-cut grass clippings back into your

yard, removing the need for bagging and disposing of the

clippings.

• Now and in the future, the Township recommends taking advantage

of the drop-off glass recycling at Village Square Mall,

which is available seven days a week in the blue recycling

dumpster located at 5000 Oxford Dr. You can deposit glass

bottles, jars and jugs of all colors (no sorting required).

Information regarding the new refuse and recycling service,

including the 2024 trash and recycling pickup schedule, will be

posted on the Township’s website and mailed out before the end

of the year. n

For a look at the 2024 trash and recycling brochure, which includes the

monthly schedule, scan the QR code below or visit Upper St. Clair Trash

and Recycling Information (twpusc.org).

Trash and Recycling Collection Important Contacts:

• Waste Management:

1-800-866-4460 or 855-852-7110

• USC Public Works Department:

412-831-9000 ext. 2710


DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PROTECTION

Holiday Safety Tips from the USC Fire Department

Thanksgiving, the day Americans gather with family

and friends to celebrate, cook and eat, is the nation’s leading

day for cooking fires. According to the National Fire Protection

Association (USFA), the number of cooking fires on Thanksgiving

is three times as high as on any other day of the year.

In addition to the hazards posed by jammed stovetops and

crowded kitchens, turkey fryers contribute to the elevated fire

risk on Turkey Day. Preventing fires is simple when following

some basic precautions. Remember, while you should always

have a fire-extinguisher nearby and know how to use it, don’t

delay calling 911.

Stovetops and ovens

Busy cooks can become distracted preparing

several dishes at once while also trying

to entertain guests. Cooking fires can easily

be prevented by following a few simple

precautions:

• Start the holiday cooking with a clean

stove and oven. Remove food and grease

buildup from burners, stovetop and oven.

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking and don’t become distracted

by guests.

• Keep children away from the stove. Preferably use the back

burners.

• Keep a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder or lid nearby to

smother any flames.

• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

• Have working smoke alarms in the home and have an escape

plan that the entire family knows if there is a fire.

Turkey fryers

Using an oil fryer to cook turkeys over the

holidays has become increasingly popular.

However, there are many hazards associated

with using turkey fryers, and safety factors

should be considered before deciding to use

a turkey fryer. For those who choose to use a

turkey fryer, we offer the following safety tips:

• Never use a turkey fryer indoors, in the garage or on a covered

patio, or on a wooden deck because of the fire hazard.

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines

• Never overfill the oil in a turkey fryer. If the fryer is overfilled,

spillover may hit the burner or flames, causing a fire.

Before putting oil into the fryer, test it out with water. Place

the turkey inside and then fill it with water until the turkey

is submerged. Remove the turkey and mark the water line on

the fryer so you will know how much oil to put in the fryer.

• Only use the oil recommended by the manufacturer. Different

types of oil have different ignition temperatures.

• Make sure you thaw the turkey completely.

• Never leave the fryer unattended.

• Fryers can easily tip over, spilling hot, scalding oil onto anyone

or anything nearby, leading to fires, burns or other injuries.

Make sure the fryer is on a flat service.

• Remember the oil will remain dangerously hot for hours.


• Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts; consider wearing

safety goggles to protect eyes from oil splatters.

• If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn OFF the gas supply.

• When using a fryer, keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher

nearby. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire. Always

remember to call 911.

As families and friends come together to celebrate the holidays

in December and January, it is important that they consider fire

safety. The holiday season brings decorations, celebrations and

an increase in indoor cooking, all of which increase the risk of

residential fires.

Each year, residential fires generally increase across the U.S.

in December. According to NFPA, U.S. fire departments respond

to an average of 240 residential fires a year caused by Christmas

trees alone. Once ignited, a dry Fraser fir bursts into flames in

seven seconds and is consumed by fire in slightly more than a

minute. The referenced video provides a stunning lesson about

why keeping a Christmas tree moist can be a matter of life-anddeath

importance: travelers.com/resources/home/fire-safety/

the-science-behind-Christmas-tree-fires.

Candles are another potential fire hazard that are widely used

during the holidays and other special occasions. According to the

U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), candles are responsible for an

estimated 15,600 residential fires a year, causing 150 deaths, 1270

injuries and $539 million in property damage. USFA adds that

December is the peak month for home candle fires, with 24% of

all candle fires occurring in December or January. According to

USFA, more than half of these fires are a result of a candle being

placed too close to flammable holiday decorations, including

Christmas trees.

The USFA recommends these precautions

around the holidays:

• Don’t use real candles as part of decorations

and remember to always exercise basic safety

when using candles throughout the home.

• Never leave a lighted Christmas tree or

other decorative lighting display unattended.

Inspect lights for exposed or frayed wires, loose

connections and broken sockets.

• Do not overload extension cords or outlets, and do not place

an electrical cord under a rug.

• Natural cut Christmas trees always involve some risk of fire.

To minimize the risk, get a fresh tree and keep it watered at

all times. Do not put the tree within three feet of a fireplace,

space heater, radiator or heat vent.

• Decorate with children in mind. Do not put ornaments that

have small parts or metal hooks or look like food or candy

on the lower branches where small children can reach them.

• Trim protruding branches at or below a child’s eye level and

keep lights out of reach.

• Do not burn Christmas tree branches, treated wood or wrapping

paper in a home fireplace.

Finally, the best way to protect loved ones in the event of a fire

is to discuss fire safety and home escape plans. n

Tri-Community South

EMS Subscription Program

Fire Chief Ted Hale (left) and USCVFD President

Greg Gerlach (right) with life member Jerry Kopach,

Jr. as he receives his axe in honor of 40 years of

service with the department.

Clear a Path

to the Hydrant

As winter inevitability approaches

and snow starts becoming a daily part of the

forecast, take note if you or your neighbor

have a fire hydrant on your property. After

a large snow fall, or after continuous snow

accumulation, fire hydrants can become

partially or even completely covered with

snow and ice. Snowplows can often drift

snow over a fire hydrant, causing additional

time on the fire scene to find the hydrant

and clear away the snow. In an emergency,

every minute matters. Being able to clearly

identify and operate a fire hydrant is key

to being able to deliver a fast and effective

water supply.

After clearing off your driveway and

sidewalk, take a moment to clear the area

around your fire hydrant, too. The USC

Volunteer Fire Department relies upon good

Samaritans to keep the hundreds of fire

hydrants in the community free of snow.

The USCVFD requests that snow and ice be

removed in a 3-foot diameter around the fire

hydrant. This allows responding units quick

and easy access to the fire hydrant and to

have room to properly work. Firefighters

need to access the hydrant to attach both

the large diameter hose to supply the engine

with water and also have enough room to

open the fire hydrant. All snow and ice

should be removed in a clear path to the

road, as well. n

If you are unable to physically clear the snow,

contact the USCVFD at 412–835–0660

and they will send a volunteer to clear the

fire hydrant.

Tri-Community South EMS will once again offer a subscription program

for 2024. A subscription to Tri-Community South EMS provides an added layer of

protection for you and your family in the event of an emergency. When you subscribe,

you will receive a 50% discount on any portion of your bill your insurance

does not cover.

Lift assists have been discounted to $200 and there is no limit on the number

of times you can call for assistance. Tri-Community South EMS still remains a selfsupporting

organization and receives no tax revenue from Bethel Park, South Park

or Upper St. Clair. Your subscription helps fund the quality care TCS has provided

for over 40 years. Tri-Community appreciates your generous donations all year long.

Residents should have a received a mailing in October, but if you missed it, you

can subscribe at tcsems.org or at 412-831-3710. n

Cell 412-327-2194

Office 412-833-3600

Email amandanasman@howardhanna.com

Web amandanasman.howardhanna.com

Howard Hanna Upper St. Clair Office


Meeting Police, Fire and

EMS Community Helpers

This summer, the Upper St. Clair Township Library teamed up with community

partners to offer hands-on experiences for kids of all ages. Participants learned about

emergency responders and got to see and

learn about some of their equipment! n


Police Lieutenant Graduates from FBI National Academy

On June 8, 2023, Upper St. Clair Police Lieutenant Michael

Ventura was one of 238 law enforcement officers to graduate

from the 286th session of the FBI National Academy (FBINA).

The FBINA is recognized internationally for its academic excellence

and training, which focuses on advanced communication,

leadership and fitness. The graduation took place at the National

Academy in Quantico, Va.

Graduates from the 2023 class represented law enforcement

agencies from 25 countries, five military organizations and six

federal civilian organizations.

Lt. Ventura spent two and a half months learning alongside

some of the most knowledgeable and refined law enforcement

officers worldwide.

“It was an honor to have the opportunity to represent Upper

St. Clair at the FBI National Academy,” said Lt. Ventura. “I am

forever grateful to my family and my fellow officers for supporting

me throughout the journey. This incredible and rewarding

experience allowed me to learn and grow alongside the finest law

enforcement officers from around the world. I am excited to be

able to share the knowledge, skills and partnerships that I was

able to build over the past 10 weeks with our police department

and our community.”

The Upper St. Clair Police Department has a history of sending

its officers to the National Academy for this training. Lt. Ventura

is now the fourth active member of the USC Police Department

to graduate from the FBINA, along with Chief of Police Jonathan

Wharton, Lt. Michael Lindenfelser and Sgt. James Murphy. In

total, 12 members of the USC Police Department have graduated

from the FBINA.

“The Upper St Clair Police Department prides itself with

higher levels of professionalism, which starts with training and

education,” said Wharton. “Over the years, there have been

What’s Going On in USC?

Alex Pepke, USC Communications Coordinator

What’s going on around Upper St. Clair this month? That’s a question the

Township wants to answer for USC residents.

On the first day of each month, the Township social media pages will feature a video

that highlights some of the biggest events taking place that month, as well as reminders

for residents.

In every video, you’ll hear from the library and the recreation department about

what’s going on in each of their worlds. You will also see different kinds of reminders

from the Township—whether it’s about the trash and recycling collection schedule for

the holidays or a community-wide event.

The library isn’t just a place for you to find a good book, although you could still do

that! It also hosts dozens of events each month for people of all ages. Some favorites

for kids and families are the Paws for Reading program, Fall Fun at Municipal Park

and Story Times.

The recreation department also has plenty to offer each month at the Community &

Recreation Center, with activities ranging from cycling classes for adults to swimming

lessons for children. Even with summer

behind us, there is something for everyone

at the C&RC all year round.

The monthly video that goes out on

social media can’t mention every event and

reminder, so residents should check out both

the library and the Community & Recreation

Center’s event calendar for a full list. n

Stay up to date on Township news and to find

out what’s going on each month, by following

them on social media.

Facebook: Township of Upper St. Clair

Twitter: @Upper_St_Clair

Instagram: @upper_st._clair

To check out all the monthly videos, plus

much more, visit the Township’s YouTube page,

@Upper St. Clair TV.

several high-ranking Upper St. Clair officers,

most of them now retired, who

completed this unique leadership training.

Prior to Lt. Ventura graduating, there were

three National Academy graduates still employed

with our department. The education

that Lt. Ventura attained will afford him the Lt. Michael Ventura

ability to excel as a leader in our community.”

Lt. Lindenfelser, a 2019 graduate of the FBINA, was present

during Lt. Ventura’s graduation ceremony.

“It was both an honor and a privilege to attend Lt. Ventura’s

graduation from the 286th session of FBI National Academy,”

said Lindenfelser. “The hard work and dedication that he has

displayed over the past 10 weeks is admirable. The lessons that

he has learned and the friendships that he has gained will serve

him well for the rest of his law enforcement career.”

As an FBI National Academy graduate, Lt. Ventura enters a

select group made up of less than one percent of the country’s law

enforcement officers. The 10-week course includes instruction in

law, behavioral science, forensic science, understanding terrorism/terrorist

mindsets, leadership development, communication

and health/fitness. All these skills will help Lt. Ventura serve the

community of Upper St. Clair.

Those invited to the academy must have a proven track record

of professional accomplishments, and enrollment to the academy

is limited. Law enforcement officials from across the world must

first apply and include an endorsement by their Chief of Police

to be considered. Admission is by invitation only.

Graduates from the prestigious program have come from all

50 states, 194 countries and over 8,200 law enforcement agencies.

More than 53,000 graduates have completed the FBINA

Program. n

Library Activity Calendar:

twpusc.libcal.com

C&RC Activity Calendar:

Activity search | Township of

Upper St. Clair

(activecommunities.com)


USC Recreation and

twpusc.org

The most up to date details and registration information

for recreation programs can be found at

twpusc.org/recreationcenter

Questions? Call 412-221-1099


Leisure Services

412-221-1099

Become a member at the Community & Recreation Center!

3-Month & Annual Contracts

Senior, Adult, Youth, and Family Memberships Available

Questions? Contact the membership department at 412-221-1099 Ext. 6220


Upper St. Clair United Senior Citizens

USC Recreation and

Leisure Services

Upper St. Clair’s United Senior Citizens had a summer

filled with lots of great activities and programs!

If you’re age 55 or older and retired, consider joining the group, which

meets most Wednesdays at the McLaughlin Run Activity Center (MAC),

located at 1770 McLaughlin Run Rd. (Spouses of eligible members may

also join, even if under the age of 55). Informal activites begin at 10 a.m.,

with members holding a brief business meeting at noon, followed by

lunch. In addition, there are various outings held throughout the year. n

On the road in June for a visit to the Johnstown Flood Museum and a

musical at Mountain Playhouse: “Sh-Boom! Life Could Be a Dream.”

In June, the group learned about grandparent scams

from Gregory Melucci, Asst. U.S. Attorney and Michael

Radens, Special Agent Homeland Security.

Celebrating a milestone birthday!

A trip to a Washington Wild Things game was

especially sweet after an overtime win!

Grandparent scam presenters Gregory Melucci and

Michael Radens with Greg’s mother, Joanne, a member

of USC United Senior Citizens.

For additional information about any older

adult programming, contact the community

programs department at 412-221-1099.

Senior Spotlight: Sol Rubin

A nonagenarian resident of

Upper St. Clair, Sol Rubin was born in

Manhattan and raised in Manhattan and

the Bronx. Educated in New York City,

he graduated from the City College of

NY and was a Navy veteran of WWII.

Sol always considered himself an

inveterate resident of the big city and its

Sol Rubin environs. But fate was not so kind. After

he and his wife, Sheila, retired on Long Island, she contracted


Members brought in memorabilia from

their first day of school.

Alzheimer’s disease. As she worsened, Sol became overwhelmed

with her care. His daughter came to his rescue and offered to

have both her parents come live with her in Upper St. Clair. Sol

accepted her offer instantly and has been a resident since 2013.

When Sheila passed away in 2015, Sol became a member of USC

Seniors, which was a lifesaver for him. There he found friends,

interests and activities.

Now Sol considers himself a Pennsylvanian and a proud resident

of USC. He is especially proud of his three children and six

grandchildren. n

Members visiting with animals from Sara’s Rescue.

USC Township Silver

Card

The Township Silver Card is free and

available to residents ages 62 and older. To

obtain a Silver Card and receive access to

a select number of group exercise classes,

USC’s three-hole golf course, as well as a

complimentary summer tennis permit, visit

the Community and Recreation Center, 1551

Mayview Road.

Silver card applications are available 8 a.m.–8

p.m., Monday–Friday. A valid photo ID showing

USC residency is required upon application.

Residents who acquired their Silver Card prior

to 2019 are encouraged to re-apply for and

receive a new, updated card.

USCSD Gold Card

Upper St. Clair residents who are age 62

or older are eligible to receive a Gold Card,

entitling them to free admission to plays and

musicals, as well as regular season home

athletic events and activities sponsored by

the USC School District. WPIAL and PIAA

playoff games are not eligible for free or

discounted admission.

To obtain a Gold Card, visit the high school

main office at 1825 McLaughlin Run Road.

For more information, contact Nancy Dunn

at 412-833-1600, ext. 2236, or email

ndunn@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

ACCESS Paratransit

and Pittsburgh

Regional Transit

Senior Citizen

Connect Card

Applications for the Pittsburgh Regional

Transit Senior Citizen Connect Card

and the ACCESS 65 Plus Coordinated,

Shared-Ride Paratransit Service are

available at the C&RC. Application must

be made in person at the C&RC during

business hours, Monday–Friday. Proof

of age (65) is required at the time of

application.


TOWNSHIP REMINDERS

2023-2024 Trash-Recycling

Holiday Collection

Holiday Collection Date

Thanksgiving.....Friday, Nov. 24 for regular Thursday collection.

Christmas...........Thursday, Dec. 28 for regular Wednesday

collection and Friday, Dec. 29 for regular

Thursday collection.

New Year............Thursday, Jan. 4 for regular Wednesday

collection and Friday, Jan. 5 for regular

Thursday collection.

2023 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf

Waste Collection—Saturdays

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable bags, then

place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of pick up. Collection

will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Dec. 2.

Township of Upper St. Clair’s

Christmas Tree Recycling

Project

Dec. 26, 2023–Jan. 31, 2024

Discarded live trees will be

ground for mulch for residents’

use. Please remove

all lights, decorations and

plastic tree bags!

Tree drop off will be at the

empty lot across from the

Public Works Building on

Truxton Drive. Check the

Township website at

twpusc.org, view Cable 7,

or call 412-831-9000,

ext. 2710, if you need more

information.

Attention Dog Owners

Pennsylvania law requires

owners to obtain dog licenses

in January of each year. Violations

can result in fines of

up to $300 per day. To be in

compliance with this law, dog

owners must obtain the

Allegheny County License

by Jan. 1 of each year.

The Allegheny County application

is available at:

• The Upper St. Clair Police Department

• The Upper St. Clair Township Reception Desk

• Online at county.allegheny.pa.us/treasure/dog.aspx

The Upper St. Clair license, which should be obtained in January

of each year, is a “Pet License.” Chapter 41 of the Township Code

defines a pet as “any dog, cat, or other domesticated animal kept

for pleasure rather than utility.”

The Upper St. Clair license application is available at:

• The Upper St. Clair Township reception desk

• Online (PDF) at twpusc.org

There is no charge for the Upper St. Clair license, but proof of rabies

vaccination is required.

Deer Management Update

Upper St. Clair Township continues its partnership with Whitetail Management Associates

and contracts with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services to

help manage the Whitetail deer population within the Township. Before USDA involvement

with USC in 2004, the Township recorded an all-time high number of reported deer-vehicle

collisions (207). The Township reversed this trend through more aggressive culling efforts, and

last year the total number of accidents involving deer was 62. The deer population in some

areas of the township appears to be normalized. However, due to limited culling opportunities

in portions of the Township, there is still significant herd growth, which creates a challenge to

reduce the deer-vehicle collision occurrences much beyond the current level.

The Township is fortunate to have residents assist in its efforts by offering private property for the culling programs. Residents who would like

consideration for inclusion in private property culling for the Deer Management program should contact Township personnel at 412-831-9000.


WINTER STORM EMERGENCIES

twpusc.org

Winter storm emergencies are

just that—emergencies. The Township of

Upper St. Clair’s administrative staff,

Police Department and Public Works

Department are on call 24 hours a day to

help residents and businesses by making

the streets safe.

During the winter season, Township

residents are asked to be patient and

understanding. To help the Police and

Public Works Department during storms,

the Township asks the cooperation of

residents in the following areas:

1. Keep calls concerning snow removal to

a minimum. Public Works and Police

phone lines need to be kept open for

emergency calls only during storm

situations. The Township is as eager

as you are to have the streets cleared

quickly. Major roads, including Route

19, Boyce Road, McLaughlin Run Road,

Lesnett Road, McMillan Road, Fort

Couch Road and Mayview Road, are

plowed first as a matter of public safety

and for emergency vehicles.

2. Do not shovel or plow snow back into

the streets. This is a violation of the

Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and creates

additional traffic safety problems.

3. When streets are plowed, snow will

be pushed in front of driveways.

Unfortunately, there is no other place

for the snow to go.

4. The Public Works Department is not

permitted to assist residents by clearing

driveways, sidewalks or paths to mailboxes.

Public Works employees work

as many hours as necessary to make

streets, inlets, cul-de-sacs, Township

owned sidewalks and parking lots safe

for all vehicles and pedestrians.

5. Under emergency situations, there

may be delays or cancellations of

garbage collection and recycling pickup.

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 twpusc.org for

information on garbage collection.

6. The Township cannot recommend

contractors or companies that provide

private snow removal. Refer to

advertising publications.

7. The Township receives numerous calls

regarding sidewalks not being adequately

maintained during heavy snow periods.

Sidewalks with unshoveled snow may

cause problems for residents, school

children, mail carriers, delivery persons,

etc. Chapter 109 of the Township Code

states that the standard removal time of

snow and ice from sidewalks is within

12 hours after the snow or ice has ceased

to fall or be formed. There are several

Township-owned sidewalks that are

posted “No Winter Maintenance” and

are not covered under this ordinance.

8. Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

They are for your safety.

9. Cars can be towed if they restrict

access for snow removal vehicles, per

Chapter 120A of the Township Code,

which states: Whenever any vehicle shall

be found wrecked, abandoned, restricting

access of emergency or snow removal

vehicles or parked or used in violation

of laws and ordinances now or hereafter

in force, such vehicles shall be removed

by authorized Township employees or by

a contract tower upon authorization of

the Township Manager or his designated

representative to the Township pound,

garage or lot. The Township Manager or

his designated representative may direct

the towing of a vehicle to any Township

designated pound, garage or lot for the

purpose of police investigation.

Public Works Snow Removal—How

it Works

The Public Works Department is on

call 24 hours a day to help residents with

snow removal emergencies and related

situations. During severe snow situations

where plowing is needed, the main state

and Township roads have priority, which

in some cases requires residential roadways

to be designated secondary priority.

The department deploys 16 trucks

equipped with salt spreaders and plows to

clear approximately 110 miles of roadway,

all Township-owned parking lots, buildings

and all School District parking lots.

The department is currently contracted

to perform snow and ice removal on

all state-owned roadways within the

Township, including Route 19, Boyce

Road, Mayview Road, Lesnett Road,

McLaughlin Run Road, Fort Couch

Road and McMillan Road. It does not

have maintenance responsibilities for

Allegheny County-owned roadways,

including Painters Run Road, Bethel

Church Road and Drake Road.

Some considerations regarding the

snow removal services that you receive

as a resident of USC include:

1. The Public Works Department must

be alert to air temperatures and road

surface temperatures. Sodium chloride

(rock salt) is effective to about 23°

Fahrenheit. At temperatures below 23°,

road surfaces will require additions of

liquid calcium chloride. Traffic causes

rock salt to act more quickly, so streets

with heavier traffic will show the

results of sodium chloride application

sooner than less traveled roadways.

2. The Township contracts with a weather

consulting company, which provides

advanced weather forecasting.

3. Peak traffic occurs between the hours

of 6–9 a.m. and 3–6 p.m. Decisions to

delay school must be made by school

administration.

4. The Public Works Department

minimizes the use of chemicals by

plowing whenever possible. Generally,

accumulations over one inch with

additional snow predicted may require

plowing as dictated by temperature.

5. Constant monitoring of road conditions

helps the Public Works administration

coordinate snow removal actions to

ensure total roadway coverage. All

snow removal vehicle drivers assist and

back each other up to ensure effective

roadway salting and plowing.

6. Walks will be cleared at the Township

building (including the library

entrance) C&RC, MAC and tennis

bubbles as soon as possible. The

Recreation Department’s schedule is

checked to ensure clear walkways prior

to scheduled activities.

7. Excessive snow may require opening

of inlets or location of fire plugs.

8. The Public Works Department has

instituted an anti-icing process into the

snow removal operation. This process

consists of applying manufactured salt

brine to the roadways prior to a storm

event. As you encounter these Public

Works’ trucks applying the product,

please give them the space and rightof-way

needed.


From the Director’s Desk

Chris Gmiter, Library Director

Happy winter, USC TODAY readers!

In this issue, we will feature the Township’s Kids

and Teens library. This area of the library is a hub of

activity year-round. Whether it is program attendance,

participation in such events as the Summer Reading

Club or one of our programs or installations in Township parks, taking

part in a craft, picking up a Take and Make Kit or tackling the daily

library Scavenger Hunt, there’s never a dull moment in the Kids and

Teens library.

Through the first seven months of 2023, more than 100 total kids/

teen programs took place with more than 4000 participants, and almost

2000 Take and Make Kits were enjoyed by families. In addition to this,

the Kids and Teens library registered over 450 young readers for the

Summer Reading Club over the three summer months.

We truly have something for everyone in our Kids and Teens library.

We welcome patronage of this space and hope to see you soon!

Chris

USC Township Library Hours

9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Holiday Closures

9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Thanksgiving: Closed at 5 p.m.

on Wednesday, Nov. 22.

9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Closed Thursday, Friday; Nov. 23, 24

9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Christmas: Closed Saturday, Sunday,

9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday; Dec. 23, 24, 25, 26

Closed

New Year’s: Closed Monday, Tuesday;

Jan. 1, 2

Outside book and video return available 24/7

Library hours are subject to change; please call or visit the library’s

website for hours of operation.

Monday:

Tuesday:

Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Thursday:

Friday:

Saturday:

Sunday:

412-835-5540 twpusc.org/library

Everybody needs a

friend. Be ours.

Your donation and purchases at the Book Sale Corner

make it possible for the Friends to sustain the library’s

improvements and programs. There are several ways to

contribute:

• Drop off this form with your cash or check at the library’s Adult or

Juvenile Circulation Desk

• Mail your check with the attached form to the library

Name:__________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________

Phone:__________________________________________________

EmaiI:__________________________________________________

By providing my email address, I agree to receive occasional updates from the Upper St.

Clair Library.

Donation amount: [ ] $10 [ ] $25* [ ] $50* [ ] $100* [ ] Other:________

Make your check payable to the Friends of the Library of USC.

Your donation is tax-deductible.

* Donate $25 or more to receive a punch card valid for five free books

from the Book Sale Corner.

Meet Your Staff

Carla Roehner and Jen Solman,

Youth Library Specialists

Carla and Jen

When did you join the library staff?

CR: I’ve been here 12 years, starting in the adult library.

A few years later, I made the switch to the Kids and Teen

library, which fit in with the 20 plus years of volunteering

I did with the USC schools and the community.

JS: I joined the Kids and Teen library team in May of 2013.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

CR: I love being helpful to others and getting to know the

parents and kids that use the library. Now I’m seeing my

kids’ friends coming in with their children! I also love putting

together craft projects that we call “take and makes.”

JS: I love sharing great books and lots of laughs with the kids

and families who use the library and who come to Family

Story Time. I organize the Paws for Reading Program, and

I find great enjoyment in seeing children who are reluctant

readers and/or afraid of dogs gain comfort and confidence

in both areas.

You are specialists; what do you do special at the

library?

CR: Jen and I do an art class for young children that we call

Perfectly Imperfect—stressing the idea that whatever you

create is great. We encourage kids to share supplies, follow

instructions but then use their imagination and dress for

mess, because there’s often-times painting involved. We add

an art-related game, like Simon Says Draw and a book and

rhyme related to whatever art project we are doing that day.

JS: Being a specialist gives me the opportunity to lead programs

such as Family Story Time, Paws for Reading and

Perfectly Imperfect (with Carla), as well as planning and

coordinating the weekly take and make craft kits.

What do you want people to know about the library?

CR: It’s a great place for all things reading, obviously, but

also to explore, play—we have a playroom and a “play to

learn” corner that kids love—and to connect with people.

JS: It is a place of learning, socializing and entertainment,

regardless of your age or interests. The staff is friendly,

knowledgeable and willing to help. And because there

is something for everyone at Upper St. Clair Township

Library! n


Kids Library


Adult Programs

Senior Wellness

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Nov. 15

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join Dr. George Fraudin and learn

about the natural way to combat the

many issues happening to our body as we

age, such as losing strength, mobility and

balance. We will also discuss the groundbreaking

non-surgical treatment for spinal

stenosis with an 85% success rate. Come

and see how to make your golden years

truly golden. This event will take place in

the library multi-purpose room.

Holiday Cookie Decorating with

AnneMarie

In-Person Event

Friday, Dec. 1

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Join Upper St. Clair librarian AnneMarie

for a fun-filled holiday cookie decorating

demo in the library multi-purpose room.

Spend a morning learning how to decorate

fancy holiday cookies with royal icing.

Each participant will receive a dozen cookies,

decorating supplies and step-by-step

instruction along the way. Grab a friend,

significant other, family member or just

come by yourself to this fun hands-on

event. Limited to 12 participants

There is a $10 supply fee to be paid at

the library before you are considered fully

registered for this class.

AARP Smart Driver Course Seniors

In-Person Event

Thursday & Friday, Dec. 7 & 8

10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Join the library and the AARP for an

8-hour class on Dec. 7 and 8. With this

course you will boost safety awareness,

minimize crash risks, refresh and improve

your driving skills, increase your confidence

and prolong your mobility while

maintaining your independence. All drivers

ages 55 and older are encouraged to

participate. This event will take place in

the library multi-purpose room.

Fee: AARP members: $20/non-members:

$25

Author Talk and Book Signing with

Local Author Em S. A’cor

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Dec. 13

6–7 p.m.

Em S. A’cor will be at the library for a

book signing and meet the author event.

Book clubs, writing groups, Pittsburgh

enthusiasts and medical romance fans are

welcome. Get your books signed with a

personalized message from the author.

Learn about the origins of the stories,

hear an excerpt and find out what’s ahead

for the series. In addition, there will be a

Q&A session with the author, plus games

and prizes.

Winter Wildlife

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Jan. 10

6–7 p.m.

Explore the wide range of adaptations

that wildlife has for cold climates and

temperate winters. From fat and blubber

to torpor and hibernation, animals have a

variety of tricks and strategies for making

it through icy conditions—or they might

just migrate away and come back when it

gets warmer!

The Roots of Middle Earth: How

Tolkien Came to Write His Mythology

Zoom Event

Thursday, Jan. 11

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join the library and Will Sherwood to

discover more about this legendary writer.

Who was J.R.R. Tolkien and how did he

come to create one of the most immersive,

expansive worlds known to humanity?

We’ll knit together various threads from

Tolkien’s biography and work to investigate

why Middle Earth enchants its readers.

Will Sherwood is the Tolkien Society’s

Education Secretary and a PhD student at

the University of Glasgow.

NASA Eyes

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Jan. 17

6–7 p.m.

Join the library and Dr. Don Miller as

he introduces you to NASA’s 3D interactive

website that enables everyone to

experience our solar system in real-time

(asteroids, planets and moons), the universe

itself and the spacecraft that are

exploring the cosmos. This website is available

to anyone and will explain to you the

science of what you’re seeing.

Introduction to Archaeology with

Allegheny County Parks

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Jan. 24

6–7 p.m.

Learn about archaeological theory

and practice, as well as the archaeological

record of Western Pennsylvania. Can you

identify the difference between a rock and

a hammer stone? Learn how American

Indians created stone tools like projectile

points and net sinkers. Discover the history

unearthed in our parks.

Super Bowl Snacks with

Kathy Wolper

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Jan. 31

6–7 p.m.

Taste test these recipes before the

Super Bowl—you’ll surely be prepping

them again for the big game! Kathy

Wolper will show you (virtually) how to

make Philly Cheesesteak Bowls and White

Bean and Bacon Dip, right in your own

kitchen. Cook along or watch and ask

questions. Recipes and shopping lists will

be provided the week before.


Adult Programs

The Key to Empowered Living

In-Person Event

Saturday, Feb. 3

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join award-winning author and artist

Dorit Brauer as she shares her keys to success.

Learn easy and simple practices to live

an authentic empowered life. She presents

the life-altering insights of her modern-day

pilgrimage and solo motorcycle adventure

across the U.S. in her book “Girls Don’t

Ride Motorbikes—A Spiritual Adventure

Into Life’s Labyrinth.” On her journey,

Dorit recounts poetic life stories spanning

her youth on a dairy farm in Germany, a

10-week solo-backpacking trip in Brazil,

the turmoil of living in Tel Aviv and her

most recent chronicles in the United States.

As Dorit travels cross-country, she weaves

these stories together to provide insights,

allowing the reader to reflect on their own

spiritual journey.

Dorit Brauer is the founder and owner

of the Brauer Institute for Holistic

Medicine. In 2016 she received the

Immigrant Entrepreneur Award by Global

Pittsburgh in recognition of her achievements

and enriching the Pittsburgh region

with her talent and tenacity since her arrival

in 1998.

The History of Gilfillan Farm

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Feb. 7

6:30–7:30 p.m.

The Historical Society of Upper St. Clair

will present the history of Gilfillan Farm.

Learn about the role that the Gilfillan’s

played in the history of the Township and the

role this last standing farm in Upper St Clair

will play in the future of the community.

Snowshoeing with Allegheny County Parks

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Feb. 21

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Park rangers will take participants out

on the trail in the snow and give them

instruction on how to snowshoe. This fun

winter activity is a great way to get out

and see the park in the wintertime, while

also getting some exercise—and burn 600

calories an hour! This is a beginner to

advanced program depending on the audience,

so anyone can come and have fun.

Participants will also learn about snow and

other winter wonders.

Introduction to Genealogy with the

North Hills Genealogists

Zoom Event

Wednesday, Feb. 21

6–7 p.m.

The North Hills Genealogists will speak

on how to begin your genealogy research

using correct methodology to avoid making

errors that can cause many headaches

and heartaches later. This is also a good

refresher program for more experienced

researchers.

Animal Antics with the Pittsburgh Zoo

In-Person Event

Wednesday, Feb. 28

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Join us for an engaging program as

you discover interesting facts about the

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium’s education

animal ambassadors. Zoo education

specialists will bring four or five animal

ambassadors for an up-close visit along

with a collection of biofacts such as feathers,

fur and bones.

Who Knew? with Becky Carpenter

In-Person Event

Wednesday, March 6

6:30–8 p.m.

Join Becky Carpenter as she talks about

Pittsburgh. Are you interested in roaming

around Pittsburgh in search of something

new? How about an atom smasher in

Forest Hills, a replica of Central Park

in Soho, the meditation pools in South

Park, the ghost towns of Lincoln Way and

Seldom Seen, the abandoned coal mine

“cathedral” in Yuko, the Parkway shrine

or the trolls under the Bloomfield Bridge?

All of these and many more are part of

“Who Knew?” an exploration of the most

interesting, odd and curious places in and

around Pittsburgh.

Try-It Tuesday

Try-It Tuesday, with local artist Judé

Ernest, is a regular monthly USC Library

Adult in-person art program. Each Try-It

program is “Make-It and Take-It” and is

specially developed to provide an introduction

and the fundamentals for creating a variety

of crafts.

All sessions are limited to 15 participants.

If you are unable to make it, please cancel

ahead of time to allow for more participants.

A $5 donation is suggested. These events will

take place in the library multi-purpose room.

Yarn Snowflake Ornament

In-Person Event

Tuesday, Dec. 12

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month we will make a Yarn

Snowflake Ornament. These easy to make

Christmas decorations are so sweet and

classic, and the techniques you will learn

are the basis for all sorts of yarn creations.

Watercolor and Salt Painting

In-Person Event

Tuesday, Jan. 9

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

In this class you will be shown how

to use common salt to create special effects

when combined with paint. Salt

will be used to enhance and modify the

visual results of your watercolor and

acrylic painting. You will get to experiment

and create unique paintings using

this technique.

Dorset Button Making

In-Person Event

Tuesday, Feb. 13

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

A Dorset button is a hand-made button

originating in England around 1622.

There are numerous varieties of woven

button patterns that can be created. Class

participants will learn to make a woven

wheel pattern. This project is extremely

rewarding once you learn the basics. There

will be examples of other woven patterns

available to examine.


Paws for Reading

Your Library Has Gone to the Dogs!

Paws for Reading Celebrates Its 16th Summer at Upper St. Clair Township Library

Retired Boyce librarian Ginny Husak visiting with her lab

Sugar, joins a group of readers. Ginny volunteered during

school vacations as a natural extension of work at Boyce.

Upper St. Clair Township Library’s long-running program Paws for Reading

celebrated its 16th anniversary this past summer. Paws for Reading began in 2007

when residents and retirees Norman and Rona Pookman approached former head of

Youth Services, Debra Conn, to begin a program where emerging readers would have

the opportunity to read to therapy dogs.

The Pookman’s dogs, Molly and Piper, were the library’s first canine volunteers.

While she had been using her pups at Baker Elementary, after she retired from teaching,

Rona realized that the library was a natural setting for this type of program.

Many dogs and owners have cycled through the program, and the library currently

has six active canine volunteers. Paws for Reading never stopped, even when

circumstances halted in-person programs at the library. When programs were moved

onto Zoom, student volunteers with a variety of pets as well as our canine volunteers

hopped onto a virtual Paws for Reading.

Paws for Reading is just one of the monikers for a program developed by Therapy

Dogs International (TDI). TDI’s reading program, Tail Waggin’ Tutors, was developed

to offer children the chance to practice reading aloud to non-judgmental listeners.

According to TDI’s website, “By sitting down next to a dog and reading to the dog,

all threats of being judged are put aside. The child relaxes, pats the attentive dog and

focuses on the reading. Reading improves because the child is practicing the skill

of reading, building self-esteem and associating reading with something pleasant.”

Canine companion Eddie with his owner Jim at an

outdoor activity time which featured Paws for Reading.


Therapy dog volunteer Bailee with a reader

A reader with Dash and Maisie, sibling

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

A family of readers visits with Theo

and his handler Presley.

Reading with dogs Molly and Piper Pookman and

their owners Rona and Norman. In the back is Callie

the therapy dog with some library friends.

Lainey listens to her readers.

A family visits with therapy dog Khaos and his owner Rene.

Bella the therapy dog listens attentively to a young

reader. Accompanying Bella is her owner Rosemary

Upper St. Clair Library’s dog owners would agree

Richardson, retired Streams kindergarten teacher.

to this result—Rona Pookman recalls that a child

who typically read with a stutter lost their stutter when reading to one of her dogs.

Paws for Reading also helps children develop other soft-skills, including patience

when waiting for their turn to read to the dogs, confidence when interacting with

adults other than their caregivers or teachers and adaptability when

the dog they ‘wanted’ to read with was not available and more.

Upper St. Clair Township Library also has a Canine Companions

therapy dog volunteer. Canine Companions allows its dogs to volunteer

in a variety of applications, from libraries to nursing homes

to hospitals. Jim Caprio and his yellow lab Eddie have made nearly

2500 visits in 2023, including here at the library.

Participants and volunteers alike praise the program, with volunteers

remarking on how wonderful it is to see children read aloud so

beautifully, and participants noting they were able to overcome fears

while having a great time at the library.

Paws for Reading is just one of many programs for kids at

Upper St. Clair Township Library. For a complete listing of all library

programs visit twpusc.libcal.com. n

Pam and her golden retriever Gracie,

a natural-born listener, observe a

young reader.

ZOOM Paws for Reading featuring dogs, a cat and a Guinea pig


NATIONAL FLOOD

INSURANCE PROGRAMS

A couple of years ago, there were many flood victims throughout

Allegheny County. Many of these victims sought help, but most

homeowners, business owners and renters did not have flood insurance.

Private coverage can be unreliable and expensive. A great option for flood

victims seeking help is the National Flood Insurance Programs (NFIP).

The federal government offers the NFIP, which is managed by the

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). NFIP aims to reduce

the impact of flooding on private and public structures. This program

enables homeowners, business owners and renters in participating

communities who are in both high-risk and moderate-to-low risk areas

to purchase federally-backed flood insurance. The program reduces

the socioeconomic impact of disasters by promoting the purchase

and retention of general risk insurance, but, more specifically, flood

insurance. Upper St. Clair participates in this program. For a list of other

participating communities, visit fema.gov/cis/PA.html.

The NFIP covers direct physical damage by flood to your building

and/or personal property. The following is a summary of what is covered

and not covered under these programs (view the FEMA website or

contact your insurance company for complete policy information).

Covered Building Property:

• Plumbing systems

• Furnaces and water heaters

• Refrigerators, cooking stoves and built-in appliances, such as

dishwashers

• Permanently installed carpeting over an unfinished floor

• Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases and cabinets.

The damage must be directly caused by flood water. Cabinets that

were not damaged by flood water are not covered, even if they match

cabinets that were damaged by flood water.

• Window blinds

• A detached garage, used for limited storage or parking. Up to 10%

of the building coverage limit can be used, but will reduce the total

amount of building coverage available.

Covered Personal Property Contents:

• Personal belongings, including clothing, furniture and electronic

equipment

• Curtains

• Portable and window air conditioners (easily moved or relocated)

• Portable microwave ovens and portable dishwashers

• Carpets not included in building coverage (carpet installed over

wood floors, etc.)

• Clothing washers and dryers

• Certain valuable items, including original artwork and furs (up to

$2500)

• Food freezers (other than walk-ins), including the food in them

Not Covered for Building or Personal Property:

• Damage caused by moisture, mildew or mold that could have been

avoided by the property owner or which is not attributable to the flood

• Damage caused by earth movement, even if the earth movement is

caused by the flood

• Additional living expenses, including temporary housing, while the

building is being repaired or is unable to be occupied

• Loss of use or access of the insured property

• Financial losses caused by business interruption

• Property and belongings outside of an insured building, including

trees, plants, wells, septic systems, walks, decks, patios, fences,

seawalls, hot tubs and swimming pools

• Currency, precious metals and valuable papers, such as stock

certificates

• Most self-propelled vehicles, including cars and their parts


Basements and Areas Below

the Lowest Elevated Floor:

Flood insurance coverage is

limited to areas below the lowest

elevated floor, including crawlspaces,

depending on the flood zone and date

of construction and in basements

regardless of zone or date of

construction. This includes:

• Basements

• Crawlspaces under an elevated building

• Enclosed areas beneath buildings elevated on full-store

foundation walls (sometimes referred to as “walkout basements”)

• Enclosed areas under other types of elevated buildings

Basements and Areas Below the Lowest Elevated

Floor—Covered Building Property:

• Foundation walls, anchorage systems, and staircases attached to

the building

• Central air conditioners

• Cisterns and the water in them

• Drywall for walls and ceilings (in basement only)

• Non-flammable insulation (in basement only)

• Electrical outlets, switches and circuit-breaker boxes

• Fuel tanks and the fuel in them, solar energy equipment and well

water tanks and pumps

• Furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps and sump pumps


Floor—Covered Personal Property:

• Washers and dryers

• Food freezers and the food in them, but not refrigerators

• Portable and window air conditioners


Floor—Not Covered Under Building or Personal

Property:

• Paneling, bookcases and window treatments, including curtains

and blinds

• Carpeting, area carpets and other floor coverings, such as tile

• Drywall for walls and ceilings (below the lowest elevated floor)

• Walls and ceilings not made of drywall

• In certain cases, staircases and elevators

• Most personal property, such as clothing, electronic equipment,

kitchen supplies and furniture

NFIP Contact Information

Website: fema.gov/flood-insurance

Phone: 800-621-FEMA / 800-427-4661

Email: floodsmart@fema.dhs.gov

This summary is intended for informational purposes only

and is not a complete description of the NFIP. Visit the FEMA

website and contact your insurance company for complete

information before purchasing a policy. A list of private insurance

companies that sell the NFIP can be found at agents.

floodsmart.gov/write-policy/resources. If your agent does not

sell NFIP, contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661. n

PINEBRIDGE COMMONS

Troy Orthodontics provides care for

the communities of Upper St. Clair,

Bethel Park, and the South Hills

of Pittsburgh. Dr. Beth Troy takes

the time to place and adjust

braces on every patient, giving

individualized attention in a caring

environment.

“Quality Dentistry with a

Gentle Touch

& the Personalized

Service that YOU Deserve!”

Pinebridge Commons

location:

1580 McLaughlin Run Road,

Suite 200


412-221-0392

Bethel Park location:

2414 Lytle Road, Suite 100

Bethel Park, PA 15102

412-831-2188

Schedule your complimentary

consultation today!

• Orthodontic services for children

and adults

• Individualized care in a

friendly and patient-focused

environment

• Convenient appointment hours

• 24-hour emergency services

• Most major insurance plans

accepted

www.drtroysmiles.com

General Dentist and Prosthodontic Specialist

NEWLY RENOVATED • STATE-OF-THE-ART

Pinebridge Dental • Upper St. Clair

412-221-2221

www.manalosmiles.com

88 Dental • Castle Shannon

412-343-4100

manalosmiles@aol.com

Pinebridge Commons

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

All American Bistro

Cardinal Endocrinology

Design Image Salon

Emerick Financial Planning

Emma’s Kafe & Deli

Estetyka

Gallagher Wealth Management

Peter Gialames & Associates

Interior Designs/Furnishings

by Mary Kay Chaffee

Timothy Kerr, DMD &

Romana Pautler Kerr, DMD

Xcoal Energy Resources

Larry E. Manalo, DMD

Melissa D. Michel, LPC

Pediatric Alliance

Pediatric Dentistry South

Questa Petroleum Co.

Cindy Brophy, State Farm Ins.

Suburban Dry Cleaners

Travel Leaders, Kiernan Ent.

Troy Orthodontics

Beth Troy, DMD

Whole Plants Health, LLC

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

McLaughlin Run Road at Lesnett Road

www.pinebridgecommons.com

Leasing Opportunity – Baker Young Corporation

412 227-1400

FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Let us

make you

smile!

Timothy J. Kerr, D.M.D.

Romana Pautler Kerr, D.M.D.

K

412-257-4250

Pinebridge Commons Suite 207

kerrdmd.com

K

Chairside

Whitening

System


Joint replacement

before breakfast

and home

before dinner.

whs.org/ortho

SKATE—PLAY—WIN

HOCKEY SCHOOL

7 weeks. 40-minute classes

beginning 1/9/24.

5 STEP PROGRESSIVE FORMAT.

Classes meet once a week on the

studio rink for 40 minutes. The

Hockey School enables players

ages 4–12 of all ability levels to

participate and learn the skills

of the game in a progressive,

non-pressure atmosphere at

an affordable price. Small

size classes, P.S.A. Skating

Professionals, certified USA

Hockey Instructors and weekly

scrimmages. Registration

beginning in December.

MT. LEBANON ICE CENTER’S

FUN AND FRIENDLY LEARNING

ENVIRONMENT PROVIDES THE

FINEST PROGRAMS ON ICE FOR

PRE-SCHOOLERS TO ADULTS IN

THE PITTSBURGH AREA.

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

DEVELOPMENTAL LEAGUE

5–8 year old & 9–12 year old

divisions. The Mt. Lebanon Ice

Center’s Developmental League

begins 1/12/24, ON THE STUDIO

RINK. The 7 game season league

is noncompetitive, no-check; equal

ice time is guaranteed. To ensure

balanced teams, registration is on

an individual basis, with players

rating each other. Enrollment

is limited. Full equipment is

required. Register in Dec. with

the rink cashier. The fee includes

referee’s fee and game jersey.

L e a r n

LEARN TO SKATE

6 weeks. The Mt. Lebanon Ice

Center’s Learn to Skate program

registration will begin 12/18/23.

PLAY DATE ON ICE

Every Tuesday, 9–11am.

Preschool children with an adult.

Light refreshments and more!

PUBLIC SESSIONS

Monday & Friday 9 am–1:30 pm

Wednesday & Thursday 9 am–Noon

Friday: 7:40–10pm—TGIF SK8

Saturday: 2–4 pm

Sunday: 2–4 pm

MT. LEBANON

ICE CENTER

To

t e

S k a

N o w !

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGES

Parties are available on weekends

using the main and studio rinks.

Call 412-561-4363 or visit our

website @ www.mtlebanon.

org/330/ice-rink-birthday-parties

to see all our options.

STICK TIME

The Center will offer Stick

Time on Tuesdays from Noon

to 1:50 pm. Full equipment is

required (including helmet)

412-561-4363

Visit www.mtlebanon.org for online registrations and program rates.


Concierge-Style Direct Pediatric Care

Zest Pediatric Network is opening a concierge-style

direct pediatric care office in the South Hills. Zest gives parents

an alternative to the status quo in pediatric care, eliminating the

traditional insurance-based office model and replacing it with a

simple and transparent financial approach that delivers personalized,

convenient and high-quality healthcare from doctors who

truly get to know their patients and parents.

“We established Zest Pediatric Network to give families another

option for pediatric care. An option that prioritizes 24/7

access directly to your doctor,” said Dr. Andrew Hertz, president

of Zest Pediatric Network. “Rather than navigating the rules of

an insurance company or health system, we partner with parents

and put the well-being of their children first.”

Zest Pediatric Network started in Ohio where it has three

offices in the Cleveland area. Marisa Quattrone, MD, a pediatrician

mother and resident of the South Hills, sees patients in the

McMurray office in the Waterdam Plaza complex.

Patients and parents first

The Zest financial model was designed with parents in mind.

Rather than being forced to manage co-pays, facility fees and coinsurance,

members pay a flat monthly fee. Membership includes:

• Unlimited visits to the pediatrician.

• Visits to your home for newborn care.

• Unhurried appointments addressing all your needs.

• Ability to text, email or call your pediatrician directly, without

having to use a patient portal.

“The model is a game-changing option for many parents who

are frustrated with the current insurance-based office. Central to

Zest’s approach is the deep, meaningful and mutually respectful

relationships parents develop with their pediatrician,” said Dr.

Quattrone.

Families that participate in a concierge-style practice often

pair their subscription with a high-deductible health plan, which

can save money. Additional savings occurs as patients have less

urgent care visits and no additional office visit fees. Patient surveys

indicate that 90% of Ohio members believe that the model

has allowed them to avoid unnecessary office visits, 80% have

avoided after-hours urgent care appointments and 70% indicate

they have avoided the emergency department. Monthly rates are

based on the number of children and their ages.

Changing experiences by changing the model

Despite the tremendous efforts of pediatricians to provide the

best care for patients, Quattrone said the conventional insurance

model is restrictive and broken. The Zest membership model

greatly reduces office overhead, allows the doctor to care for fewer

patients and liberates everyone from the burdens of a traditional

high-volume insurance-based office. The result: relationships

and care flourish.

“The difference from a traditional practice is amazing. I can

now spend the time with families that they need and deserve. I

can partner with families in creating the healthiest, happiest lives

for their children,” said Dr. Quattrone.

The expansion into the Pittsburgh region reflects the popularity

of the network’s approach to pediatric care, Hertz said.

“Once finalized, the Zest Pediatric Network will be unlike

anything available today,” Hertz said. “We will have the next

generation of pediatric care that includes services such as lactation

consultants, dieticians, psychologists, parent coaches and

more. We will have a new pediatric curriculum that puts children

first—not insurance companies.” n

To learn more about Zest Pediatric Network and its South Hills

location, visit ZestPeds.com/southhills or contact Dr. Andrew Hertz at

Drew.Hertz@ZestPeds.com or call (412) 990-2157.

See ad on this page.


#MBCDreamHome

www.mcqueenbuildingcompany.com

Timeless or Trendy?

With the right design decisions, you can have the perfect mix of both.

Geoff McQueen and the McQueen Building Company Design Team

People often ask us what’s trending

in home design. Clients want their

homes to look great for years to come.

They don’t want to invest in a kitchen or

bath and find that in five years it looks

outdated. At the same time, they want

their home to feel stylish and fresh—on

trend, but not trendy.

It’s a lot of fun to strike that perfect

balance, and it’s something our design

team does every day. Chris and our team

have great instincts, and they’ve also got

a strategy: “If it’s something that’s going

to be harder to change in the future,

these are the things that you want to be

timeless—like your cabinets and your

countertops, or backsplashes and bath

tiles,” says Samantha Rayl, one of our

talented interior designers.

These are items you want to love for

decades.

But there are so many other pieces of

the home design puzzle where you can

indulge in the latest trends or choose

something that really expresses your personal

style—paint colors, light fixtures,

cabinet hardware and more.

“Hardware is almost like a piece of jewelry

that can change the look of the space

and can really express your personality,

but it’s so easily changed again when you

want something different,” Samantha says.

“Maybe it’s something that would have a

pearl with a little bit of an embellishment,

or maybe something very modern.”

The key is getting that balance just

right. How many trendy touches should

you include?

The five-year rule

As we begin working with a new client,

Chris always asks, “How long do you

intend to be in your home?”

How long they plan to stay helps dictate

how daring we are with trendy or bold

design choices.

We had a client last year—a couple

in their 30s with a strong sense of their

personal style—who plan to stay in their

current home for the rest of their lives.

This is their forever home. They have

more opportunity to take risks and embrace

design trends they know they will

continue loving it for many years, because

they’re not looking to please a buyer.

If it’s possible you’ll want to sell within

five years, we suggest dialing back a little

bit and making more daring decisions for

things that are easily swapped.

Wallpaper is hard to change. Paint is

easy. So, it’s probably not wise to put up

crazy wallpaper or get really trendy in a

house that you might sell in five years.

We spent much of last summer wondering

if a client would ask us for a

full-on Barbie kitchen, given the movie’s

popularity. If anyone had, we would have

suggested caution—but also found a way

to infuse their kitchen with gorgeous, easily

changed touches of Barbie style.

What’s in for 2024?

The prevailing styles on the rise this

year are all about natural materials and

handmade pieces. Chris calls it lived in,

layered, warm—curated over time, as opposed

to everything looking brand new

and shiny, fresh from a factory.

We’re using wood throughout houses

in stains that are true to that natural brown

tone you see when you look at live trees.

“People are starting to embrace that

warmth that the wood gives,” says our

designer Maria Cross. “We’re doing a lot

of rift sawn or quarter sawn oak, and we’re

also doing a lot of walnut, which is a nice

smooth wood with beautiful graining and

deep tone.”

We’re also seeing more quartzite and

other natural stone rather than manufactured

surfaces, and handmade tiles with

natural imperfections.

Plain white subway tile isn’t so much in

anymore. People want to see imperfections

or variations in color—not machine-made

or factory-made but handmade, so it’s

perfectly imperfect. It’s almost like you

can feel the presence of the artisan who

made these things, and it feels timeless.

This shift to handmade, textured tile also

feels fresh and new, but you can choose

a neutral color you’ll continue loving for

decades.

People want subtle beauty—not something

that screams at you. This includes

kitchen range hoods. There was a time

when chimney-style, big, bold hoods were

the epicenter of your kitchen. It was supposed

to be a statement. Now, we’re doing

big hoods that blend into the whole color

palette of the kitchen.

The texture is like stucco, but we paint

it the same color as the wall. The whole

intention behind the design aesthetic now

is you want to be drawn in with subtleties

and unique qualities that give your home

its own personality.

We’ve all had that great experience of

walking into an older home and thinking,

“these rooms have so much character.”

With the right design choices, that’s possible

in a newer home—and you can love

it for generations. n

Visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com and follow on social media. See their ad on page 56.


Board of

School Directors

Dr. Daphna Gans

President

dgans@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Barbara L. Bolas

bbolas@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2023*

Upper St. Clair School District

Jennifer A. Schnore

Vice President

jschnore@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Kelly P. Hanna

khanna01@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2023*

uscsd.k12.pa.us

@USCSchools

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

Administrator Secretary/Email Address Extension

Dr. John Rozzo...........................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218


smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Amy Pfender.........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214

Deputy Superintendent

mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Lou Angelo ..........................................................langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2272

Director of Operations & Facilities

Ray Berrott.................................................................rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2059

Director of Technology

Sean Bryson ...............................................................sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2560

Chief of School Police

Dr. Judy Bulazo .........................................................Mary Beth Harkleroad............................. 2214

Director of Curriculum and Professional Development mharkleroad@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Scott Burchill ............................................................Dawn Machi ............................................ 2220

Director of Business and Finance

dmachi@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Ray Carson, Jr............................................................Sarah MacDonald.................................... 2218

Senior Director of Operations & Administrative Services smacdonald@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell ............................................Julie Karabinos......................................... 2116

Director of Special Education

jkarabinos@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Danny Holzer...............................................................Kimberly Valeriano.................................... 2260

Director of Athletics

kvaleriano@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Lauren Madia ........................................................Terri Lott .................................................. 2283

Director of Pupil Services

tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Jonn Mansfield ............................................................jmansfield@uscsd.k12.pa.us ..................... 3450

Director of Transportation

Tina Vojtko ................................................................tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2215

Communications Specialist

Bradley Wilson ..........................................................bwilson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 3318

Director of Strategic Initiatives

School District Central Office Administration

Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.

lmafrice@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2023*

Michael R. Mascaro

mmascaro@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Dr. John Rozzo


Dr. Amy Pfender

Deputy Superintendent

Angela B. Petersen

apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2023*

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

dwetzel@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

Hallie H. Snyder

hsnyder@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2023*

The list of the Upper

St. Clair Board of School

Director 2023-2024 meeting

dates is available on

the District’s website:

uscsd.k12.pa.us/schoolboard.

Meetings typically begin at

7 p.m. in the district administration

building.

Upper St. Clair School District Annual Notices

The required annual notices to parents of children who reside

in the Upper St. Clair School District are available online. Visit

the district website at uscsd.k12.pa.us. Click on Information and

then select Compliance Notifications to view required state and

federal notices and information.

Scott Burchill

Director of Business and Finance

Dr. Judy Bulazo

Director of Curriculum and

Professional Development

Dr. Timothy Wagner

High School Principal

Dr. Daniel Beck

High School Assistant Principal

Cara Senger

High School Assistant Principal

Ray Carson, Jr.

Senior Director of Operations

& Administrative Services

Dr. Cassandra Doggrell

Director of Special Education

Dr. Lou Angelo

Director of Operations & Facilities

Dr. Lauren Madia

Director of Pupil Services

School District Building Administration

Erin Peterson

Fort Couch Middle School Principal

Gordon Mathews

Fort Couch Assistant Principal

Dr. Daniel O’Rourke

Boyce Middle School Principal

Dr. Christine Mussomeli

Boyce Assistant Principal

Ray Berrott

Director of Technology

Bradley Wilson

Director of Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux

Baker Elementary School Principal

Mark Miller

Eisenhower Elementary

School Principal/Supervisor of

Elementary Education

Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer

Streams Elementary School Principal


USCHS Named Among the Nation’s Best High Schools

Upper St. Clair High School ranks among the

top three percent of high schools in the nation according

to U.S. News & World Report. Released on Aug.

29, 2023, the news outlet ranked 17,680 out of nearly

25,000 reviewed public high schools in all 50 states and

the District of Columbia.

Ranked 642nd in the nation and 17th in

Pennsylvania, Upper St. Clair is one of only six high

schools in the region to rank among the top 25 in the

commonwealth. Other top performing schools include

Peters Township, Pittsburgh CAPA, Mt. Lebanon,

Hampton and Fox Chapel Area high schools.

Dr. Timothy Wagner, Upper St. Clair High School principal,

attributes the school’s success to its shared value of quality education

among its many stakeholders.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have students, parents, teachers

and community members who all partner together to create

a world-class educational community,” he said. “Our students

have opportunities within and beyond our classrooms to make

authentic connections and to discover and nurture their interests

and passions.”

The methodology takes a holistic approach to evaluating

schools, focusing on six factors: college readiness, state assessment

proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved

student performance, college curriculum breadth and graduation

rate. College readiness measures participation and performance

Soccer Coach Reaches 300 Career Wins

on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams.

According to U.S. News, “The methodology for identifying

the top-ranked Best High Schools was developed with a core

principle in mind: that the top schools must serve all students

well and must produce measurable academic outcomes that support

this mission.”

This year, U.S. News adjusted its calculations to account for the

cancellation of state testing in spring 2020 due to the COVID-19

pandemic. Because assessment data from the 2019-2020 year was

not available, U.S. News incorporated assessment results from

both 2018-2019 and 2020-2021, depending on the availability

for each state. For the AP and IB assessment data, U.S. News used

scores from 2020-2021, the most recent school year for which

this information was available. n

The Upper St. Clair High School

boys’ soccer coach recently achieved a

significant milestone. The team’s win over

Canon-McMillan on Sept. 7, 2023, marked

Coach Uwe Schneider’s 300th career win.

Coach Schneider has served as the

Panther’s head coach since 2002. In his

21st season, his career record stands at

300-97-29 with four PIAA, two WPIAL and

five section titles. In addition, his teams

have been WPIAL runner ups four times

and PIAA runner up once.

One of his championship teams, the

2004 team, went 27-0 and finished the

season ranked No. 1 in the nation by the

National Soccer Coaches Association of

America. Coach Schneider was named

the Coach of the Year by the Pennsylvania

Soccer Coaches Association and was

recently inducted into the WPIAL Hall

of Fame, along with the members of the

2004 team. n


Celebrating Boyce’s 2023 National Blue Ribbon School status are principal Dr. Dan O’Rourke and assistant principal Dr. Christine Mussomeli,

with students (l/r) Ava Vankirk, Liana McLean, Felix Nguyen, Brooklyn Pope and Mileidi Miles.

Boyce Named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School

Boyce Middle School is among the 353 schools in the

nation that were named 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the

U.S. Department of Education. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel

Cardona made the annual announcement on Sept. 19, 2023.

“The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools

Award have set a national example for what it means to raise the

bar in education,” said Secretary Cardona. “The leaders, educators

and staff at our National Blue Ribbon Schools continually

inspire me with their dedication to fostering academic excellence

and building positive school cultures that support students of all

backgrounds to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.”

This marks the second Blue Ribbon for Boyce and the 13th

overall for the Upper St. Clair School District.

“We are tremendously proud of our entire Boyce Middle School

community, including our teachers, staff, families and, most

importantly, our students,” said Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent

of schools. “The National Blue Ribbon is further testament that

Boyce provides an extraordinary experience for our students and

their families.”

Boyce Middle School, which serves 620 students in grades five

and six, earned its first National Blue Ribbon in 1992. The school

is led by principal Dr. Dan O’Rourke and assistant principal Dr.

Christine Mussomeli, who described the accomplishment as a

monumental achievement.

“The Blue Ribbon Award is one of the most coveted awards

in education,” Dr. O’Rourke said. “Only 13 public schools in

Pennsylvania can be nominated, so to be one of a fraction of a

percent of schools to receive the award is an immense accomplishment

for the students, staff, district and community.”

The Blue Ribbon application process began in February when

the Boyce administrators were notified that the school had been

nominated for being an Exemplary High Performing School.


“After being nominated, there is a very detailed and extensive

application process that is required,” Dr. O’Rourke explained.

“Boyce staff members from multiple departments assisted with

responding to specific curricular and programmatic sections that

are required as part of the application process.”

Dr. Mussomeli stated that the Boyce Middle School staff is committed

to ensuring that all students are given every opportunity

to achieve their personal best.

“At Boyce, collectively we are totally committed to prioritizing

the needs of children over anything else,” she said. “We are

dedicated to guiding students through the tough middle school

years in an environment that is comfortable and nurturing.”

Many schools around the nation have seen a drop in standardized

test scores since the pandemic. Although Boyce student

performance, as measured by Pennsylvania System of School

Assessment (PSSA), dipped in 2021, it has continued its upward

trajectory the last two years.

“In fact, this past year our collective PSSA scores were the

highest they have ever been since the test changed about a decade

ago. Our percentage of students scoring advanced has also

seen an increase,” Dr. O’Rourke said. “This is a testament to our

hard-working students, outstanding instruction and the collective

efforts of all constituents.”

The National Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes public

and private elementary, middle and high schools based on their

overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement

gaps among student subgroups. Since its inception in 1982,

the program has presented more than 10,000 awards to over 9,700

schools, with some schools winning multiple awards. Schools are

eligible for repeat nomination after five years of achieving Blue

Ribbon recognition. n

2023 Halls of Fame Welcomes Nine

Nine individuals have been selected for induction

into the Upper St. Clair High School Halls

of Fame. Seven alumni and two retired teachers

were honored at the annual induction ceremony on

Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, and recognized at the Upper St. Clair football

game the following evening.

The 2023 Halls of Fame inductees include:

Academic Hall of Fame:

John Hellerstedt (1970)

Patricia Palazzolo (Retired Teacher)

Eva Roy (2014)

Arts Hall of Fame:

Jubal Battisti (2000)

Aditya (Adi) Rao (2007)

Susan Hofrichter-Watts

(Retired Teacher)

Athletic Hall of Fame:

Emma Hasco (2016)

Dylan Reese (2003)

Savannah Shaw (2018)

Arts

Academics

Athletics

Founded in 2000, the Upper St. Clair Halls

of Fame honors those who have distinguished

themselves in academics, the arts, or athletics at the high school, collegiate

or professional level and who, in so doing, have contributed to

the pride and prestige of Upper St. Clair High School. n

Jubal Battisti

John Hellerstedt

Emma Hasco

Susan Hofrichter-Watts

Patricia Palazzolo

Aditya (Adi) Rao

Dylan Reese

Eva Roy

Savannah Shaw


Nine Named National Merit Semifinalists

Nine USCHS seniors were recently named semifinalists

in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. The following

students scored in the top one percent of all juniors completing

the PSAT in October 2022: Lucas Bishop, Leona Chen, Hunter

Maher, Caroline Murphy, Mahir Parmar, Alex Sun, Arjun Suresh,

Lauren Tenney and Isabella Zhang.

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their remarkable

achievements,” said Dr. Timothy Wagner, principal. “In addition

to being named National Semifinalists, these nine students excel

in our music program, lead student clubs and actively volunteer

throughout our greater community.”

Founded in 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program

is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships.

Students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by

taking the PSAT—the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying

Test—during the fall of their junior year. The nationwide pool of

semifinalists, more than 16,000 students, includes the highestscoring

entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in a

state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total

of graduating seniors.

According to the program’s website, “The National Merit

Scholarship Program honors individual students who show exceptional

academic ability and potential for success in rigorous

college studies.” n

For more information regarding the National Merit Scholarship Program,

visit nationalmerit.org.

Eighteen Earn National Merit Commended Status

Eighteen USCHS seniors were recently named commended

students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Ryan Arya, Yousef Bin Hammad, Matthew Bordenstein, Natalie

Campagna, Reese Copenhaver, Boshi Dong, Daniel Elkoni, Arnav

Kumar, Grace Larsen, Benton Leggat, Autumn Ma, Brian McFerran,

Esat Sarac, Anuj Shah, Aahna Sinha, James Tenney, Shiven

Verma and Irene Yap are among the 34,000 commended students

throughout the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional

academic promise.

Commended students placed among the top 50,000 students

who entered the 2024 competition by taking the 2022 Preliminary

SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT)

last October. n


First Day of School 2023

There were smiles all around as Upper

St. Clair School District welcomed students back

to school this fall. We hope these photos bring a

smile to your face, too! n


National Track Championships

Upper St. Clair student-athletes Peyton Meckstroth, Emily

Powell and Owen Carothers qualified for the 2023 USATF

National Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships,

competing this past July at the University of Oregon’s

Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore.

Peyton, a seventh grader at Fort Couch, qualified in

the high jump, 100-meter hurdles and pentathlon, which

includes the 100-meter hurdles, shot put, high jump, long

jump and 800-meter run.

Emily, a junior at the high school, qualified in long jump,

400-meter hurdles and 100-meter hurdles.

Owen, a sixth grader at Boyce, qualified in the 80-meter

hurdles and the 800-meter run.

Peyton Meckstroth Emily Powell Owen Carothers

USCHS Grad Earns Human Relations Award

Yoshna Venkataraman, a 2023

graduate of Upper St. Clair High

School, was named a co-winner of the

2023 Caplan-Lieber Human Relations

Award from the Pittsburgh Area Jewish

Committee Donor Advised Fund and

the Jewish Community Center, receiving

a $5000 scholarship.

In their nomination, Dan Beck,

Yoshna Venkataraman

USCHS assistant principal, and Brooke

Tarcson, head of student activities,

praised Yoshna’s leadership in Student Council, Standing

Together, No Place for Hate and the school’s peer mentoring

program, as well as her efforts as the founding member of

Mending Mindsets, the school’s first mental-health awareness

club.

Yoshna is pursuing a career in nursing at Case Western

Reserve University.

As the sponsoring educational institution, the USCHS

was recognized with a $500 award from the Pittsburgh Area

Jewish Committee Donor Advised Fund and the Jewish

Community Center.

#HaveYouHeard?

Heard?

FBLA Nationals

Upper St. Clair High School student Yog Trivedi

placed 10th in the Advertising event at the 2023 National

Leadership Conference of Future Business Leaders of

America, Inc. (FBLA), held this past June in Atlanta, Ga.

Future Business Leaders of America inspires and

prepares students to become community-minded business

leaders in a global society through relevant career

preparation and leadership experiences. For more information,

visit fbla.org.

Julia Cedar

Yog Trivedi

Saving Animals

Last year, the Saving Animals Club at USCHS raised

monetary and in-kind donations totaling more than

$1000 to benefit the South Hills Pet Rescue, a local

organization that rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes

dogs of all breeds, with all needs. Located in South

Park, the rescue houses an average of 50 rescue dogs

at all times.

Saving Animals Club members have big plans

for the 2023-24 school year, hoping to double their

donation total by hosting a fundraiser. In addition,

members plan to make dog toys and other items to

donate, host a baked goods and dog treat sale and

possibly volunteer at a local shelter.

Speech & Debate

A school record of 13 USCHS

Speech & Debate team students

qualified to compete at the National

Speech & Debate Association

(NSDA) National Tournament, held

in Phoenix, Ariz. this past June.

According to NSDA’s website, the

tournament is the largest academic

competition in the world, with

more than 6000 students debating

current issues, voicing their views

and sharing their stories.

Two recent graduates achieved

among the highest NSDA finishes

in team history. Nitin Chandran

placed 30th in U.S. Extemporaneous

Speaking, achieving the fourth

highest finish in a NSDA tournament

main event in team history. Ansh

Goyal finished 15th in his Senate

semifinal chamber, USC’s highest

finish ever in Student Congress.

The World Schools Debate team,

comprised of 2023 graduates Jasmine

Dietiker, Edy McCurrie and Patrick

Nowak, finished as the 16th overall

seed, marking the second-best finish

by a Pittsburgh World Schools team

at nationals. The team is coached

by Ben Edwards, Dave Watson, Erin

Wolf and Neale Misquitta.


USC Senior Opens Chamber Orchestra’s Season

Pianist Leona Chen, a USCHS senior, opened the 2023-24

season of the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh with a performance

of the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto

No. 20.

Leona, performed under the direction of guest conductor

Matthew Wardell, earning

this opportunity by winning

the Young Artists Piano

Concerto Competition

earlier this spring. The

competition was sponsored

by the Chamber Orchestra

of Pittsburgh and the

Steinway Society of Western

Pennsylvania, which

began work on the youth

competition in 2022.

The Sept. 9 program also

included Mozart’s Symphony

No. 41 (“Jupiter”) and

Boris Blacher’s musical

celebration of Mozart,

Hommage à Mozart.

Sophomore Competes on

U.S. National Soccer Team

Upper St. Clair High School sophomore Sierra Dupre

earned a spot on the final roster of the U15 U.S. National Soccer

Team, competing against

teams in the Netherlands

and Germany this past

June. In the first match of

the team’s European tour,

the U.S. National Team

blanked the Netherlands,

7-0. In that matchup,

Sierra, a midfielder, had

a goal and three assists.

Two days later, the U.S.

Team narrowly defeated

Germany, 1-0, scoring in

the final minutes of the

game.

Sierra plays on the

USCHS girls’ soccer team

and trains and competes

with the Pittsburgh

Riverhounds Soccer

Academy.

Leona Chen

Sierra Dupre

Fort Couch Student Holds Guinness

World Record

Kavin Kumar, a student at Fort

Couch, is now a Guinness World

Record holder. He was among 1329

participants who performed the largest

simultaneous Hindu text recital.

Kavin and his group recited the

Srimad Bhagavad Gita that contains

700 verses—2800 lines—from memory,

with authentic Sanskrit pronunciations.

Sanskrit is India’s oldest language and is

called the language of the gods. Kavin

and other participants underwent rigorous

training and assessment for 10

months to memorize the text.

Kavin Kumar

Poster Contest Winner

Fort Couch student Arjun Kairi placed first

in his division in the statewide 2023 School Bus

Safety Poster Contest, sponsored by the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation. Arjun was recognized

at an awards ceremony during National School Bus

Safety Week this past October, at the governor’s

residence in Harrisburg, Pa.

Senior Reaches Music Competition Finals

A USCHS student was named a finalist in the

Dunhuang Cup, a weeklong music competition for

traditional Chinese plucked instruments. Senior Theeya

Chen, who plays the pipa, advanced in the teen student

category with approximately 20 other students from

around the world.

More than 3000 professional and amateur musicians

competed in the annual event. Not able to attend inperson,

Theeya participated in the Dunhuang Cup via

video conference.

Theeya, who began playing the pipa in 2018, has

performed at many cultural festivals and New Year galas

within the Pittsburgh area. She has reached level 7

of 9 at the Central Conservatory of Music, a renowned

music school in China that offers in-person and virtual

instruction.

Arjun Kairi

Theeya Chen


Growing Up and Growing Older Together

Tina Vojtko, Communication Specialist, Upper St. Clair School District

Once a month, a vibrant group of women descend upon

the OTB Bicycle Café at Hastings for their regular luncheon of

mostly Upper St. Clair High School retirees. While the venue has

changed from time to time, the friendship and camaraderie have

remained steadfast long before the gatherings began in 1993.

“It is a great story about lifelong friendships, meaningful retirements

and making a difference in the world a little at a time,” said

Kristin Scott Pardini, school counselor and the youngest member

of the friendship group. “These are teachers who literally built our

school district and are still beloved by

generations of graduates. I am proud

to have worked with them and to be

a part of their friendship group. They

have mentored, and continue to mentor

me, throughout my life for more

than 25 years.”

At its inception, the monthly gettogether

served as a way for these

teachers and others to better connect

with one another beyond the busy

school day.

“The thought was that even

though we taught in the same building,

we didn’t see each other very

much,” said Susan Hughes, former

social studies teacher who retired in

2004. “Monthly birthdays seemed

like a good idea. We’ve been celebrating

since our 30s! Growing up and

now older together.”

For 30 years, these ladies have

held their monthly lunch date to celebrate

birthdays and life’s milestones,

as well as to endure its challenges

together.

“These friendships have been a source of joy, love and especially

support for all of us. We have helped each other through

marriages, divorces, the birth of children, loss of parents, loss of

spouses, illnesses, etc.,” said Susan. “The group is an extension

of our philosophy about care and concern for others as seen in

our profession.”

Kathy DeBlassio, retired social studies teacher and high school

counselor, cherishes the time, memories and friendships created

through this monthly gathering.

“It has been a source of strength through some of life’s hardest

times and also a chance to celebrate the magic moments—the birth

of our children and grandchildren, our marriages,” said Kathy.

“We all have so many shared memories and know so much about

each other. It has been a constant source of support through the

good times and the bad.”

Initially, the women purchased small gifts and cards to celebrate

birthdays before transitioning to a $5 to $10 donation,

which is given to a charity selected by consensus of all the birthday

celebrants that month.

“Someone thought we should do something with the money

rather than presents,” said Susan. “Lots of organizations have

been chosen by the person whose birthday we were celebrating—Greater

Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Brother’s Brother

Foundation, Samaritan’s Purse, associations for children, etc.”

The group estimates that more than $22,000 has been donated

over the last 30 years.

In total, there are approximately 20 women in the friendship

group.

“When we meet, we talk about family, politics, books, movies…no

topic is off-limits,” Susan said. “The size of the group

varies from month to month depending

on who is in town etc.”

Group members include Theresa

Avick, Carol Brosnahan, Barbara

Carney, Beth Chadwick, Kathy

DeBlassio, Mary Lou Einloth, Ann

Gladden, Susan Hughes, Kathy

Kirsch, Mary Muffley, Pam Palmieri,

Kristin Scott Pardini, Noreen Pikutis,

Judy Reilly, Susan Rosetti, Rita Toth,

Trudy Wagner, Jan Zahurak and

Patricia Zapp.

In the last few years, the group has

had to say goodbye to a few friends

who passed away, including Jane

Hollman, Addie Sommer and Karen

Thompson.

The group welcomed its youngest

member, Kristin, when she was just

25 years old. As a school counselor at

USC High School, she is the group’s

only non-retiree.

“I began working with these wonderful

women when I was 25 years

old. I celebrated my 30th birthday

with them—that was 25 years ago,” she said. “They literally

helped to build the Upper St. Clair School District and those of us

who are still working there stand on their shoulders every day.”

Kristin deeply values the friendships and mentorship she has

gained from her longtime connection with this group of women.

“They have always been the greatest example of professionalism,

kindness, tenacity and resilience. They may not realize it,

but I have been learning from them for more than 30 years. They

have taught me how to be a good parent, a devoted educator, a

true friend and most of all, courageous and resilient in the face

of all of life’s challenges,” she said. “They are the world’s greatest

problem solvers, no matter what they encounter, and I have so

much admiration and respect for them. What we can all learn

from them is to keep giving, to keep engaging and to keep rising

after falling.”

There were 22 retirements in the Upper St. Clair School District

during the 2022–23 school year. Kathy encourages these new

retirees to make the effort to maintain relationships.

“Stay involved and find something that allows you to be your

best self. And most of all, stay connected even when it takes a

lot of effort,” Kathy said. “We still stay connected to our friends

from this group who are far away.” n


Staff Recognized

This August, the District welcomed

newly contracted teachers Aiko

Bosbach, grade 2, Streams; Erin Bruce,

grade 7 English language arts, Fort

Couch; Karen Chisholm, orchestra, Fort

Couch and USCHS; Kate Colebert, grade

4, Baker; Elizabeth DelGreco, grade 4,

Baker; Lydia Herman, grade 6 English

language arts, Boyce; Jamie Houck, grade

5 math, Boyce; Stephanie Joyce, grade

5 English language arts, Boyce; Jessica

Kotula, emotional support, USCHS; Erin

Lee, grade 5 math, Boyce; Rebecca Maley,

librarian, Fort Couch; Conan Rooney,

grade 7 science, Fort Couch; Kristen Stash,

physical education, Baker; Laura Surguine,

choir & drama, USCHS; Kaitlin Vavrek,

Kindergarten, Eisenhower; Chris

Watkinson, chemistry and physics, USCHS;

and Courtney Wregget, school counselor,

USCHS.

In addition, 10 staff members were

honored for completing 25 years of service

to the Upper St. Clair School District.

Honorees include Amy Antonio, school

counselor, Boyce; Kevin Clark, teacher

& Deer Valley coordinator, Boyce; Amy

Cornali, teacher, Streams; Samuel David,

custodian, USCHS; Kristie Dawson,

Celebrating 25 Years at USC

confidential administrative assistant,

USCHS; Louise Fidler, teacher aide,

USCHS; Helga Gilbert, Spanish, Baker

and Eisenhower; Dee Kelly, head secretary,

Boyce; David Kyle, social studies, Fort

Couch; and Melissa Tungate, English and

curriculum leader, USCHS. n

USC Girls’ Wrestling: Making History

Caleb Guarino, TODAY Intern

On May 17, 2023, the PIAA board voted to begin sponsoring

girls’ wrestling as an official sport. The PIAA now offers state

championships in all weight classes of girls’ wrestling, whereas

before, women would have to compete against men. In order for

the change to take place, 100 schools within Pennsylvania were

required to sport girl’s wrestling teams. Originally, Upper St. Clair

High School was not on this list, but due to the boys’ varsity

wrestling coach, Chris Tarr, and interest from a few key female

athletes, USC is now set to make history with the creation of the

school’s first-ever girls’ high school wrestling team.

In the fall of 2018, conversation about the PIAA sanctioning girls’

wrestling as an official sport started. Inspired by junior

high wrestlers, Grace Nasman and Sidney Tomczyk,

future high school coach Tarr began to advocate for

girls’ wrestling. However, it wasn’t until last year,

when Tarr was hired as the head coach, that the high

school wrestling program began to make large strides.

In hopes of sparking interest, Tarr gained permission

from physical education teachers Sean Morton and

Tim Robbins to visit gym classes to recruit for his

teams. Although Tarr’s efforts exponentially increased

the numbers on the boys’ team, the USC High School

would not be one of the first 100 schools to sponsor a girls’ team.

However, Tarr struck gold when senior Ella Starkey expressed

interest in creating the first-ever women’s team. Starkey immediately

began to recruit for the upcoming girls’ team by posting on

social media, earning permission to post fliers around the school

and by simply spreading the word.

It’s much different when a 47-year-old wrestling coach stands

up there and says come join the wrestling program, Tarr explained.

“But when a female standing there says come join me in being the

first all-female team, you’re making history. We’re making history

here at Upper St. Clair.”

With help from Starkey, Coach Tarr and the girls’ wresting

program gained eight to 10 wrestlers within the span of a month.

Tarr’s goal is to

recruit 15 to 20

young women

wrestlers for the

initial all-female

squad.

As the sport of wrestling continues

to grow, Tarr, his staff, parent volunteers

and returning alumni including USC

wrestling legends Tom Bogan and Mack Macguire, work hard

to create various opportunities for wrestlers in our community.

Opportunities range from the Little Panthers program for kids

attending preschool and kindergarten, up to the varsity level at

the high school. Practices and clinics are offered year-round for

all ages and competitive levels. Those interested in the Upper

St. Clair wrestling programs at any age or level should email

ctarr@uscsd.k12.pa.us. n


PTC

Pawprints...

Council

Pamela Scureman, President

The Upper St. Clair Parent Teacher

Council (USC PTC) is a unique nonprofit

within our District. Each unit president

sits on the board, along with the

superintendent, president, vice-president,

treasurer, secretary and advisor.

This organization was created in 2015,

when the executive board of USC PTA

council was dissolved and the USC PTC

began. Prior to that, 70% of the funds

raised for membership dues at the unit

levels went to the Pennsylvania PTA.

Under our current organization, the funds

collected for membership and activity fees

stay within our district.

The forming of this new organization

also helped further unify our school

community. The USC PTC meets often as

an executive board—and we e-mail more

often than that—to support the other

schools and the district-wide events that

the PTC committees host.

Since the formation of the USC PTC, we

have grown. Last year we added an audit

committee and communication committee.

Arts In USC is back to an in-person event

and Partners in Education (PIE) is holding

events. This school year, we are defining

and growing these committees, while

hopefully adding a few more events and

support. The goal of the organization is to

provide the needed support to every school

unit and all students in the district.

Helen Keller said it best when she said,

“Alone we can do so little. Together we can

do so much.”

High School PTSO

Leria Miles, President

Did you know that a massive renovation

of the high school took place between 1997

and 1999, under the direction of thensuperintendent

Dr. William Pope? The

old building was completely torn down

to make room for the current one. Retired

USC administrator Dr. John Bornyas said

the Pittsburgh Business Times named the

high school renovation one of the top

25 projects in the western Pennsylvania

region.

Dr. Bornyas said one of the biggest

challenges happened after the work was

completed on the Friday before Labor Day.

The students were scheduled to return to

school on Tuesday, but a massive clean-up

effort was needed before students could

enter the building. This resulted in a

round-the-clock effort by members of the

USC custodial staff to remove debris, clean

and place 60 trailers full of furniture and

school equipment in the building between

Friday and Tuesday morning. They met the

deadline and students began their school

year with a fresh start!

Fort Couch PTSO

Elizabeth Taylor, President

Did you know that Fort Couch offers

more than 30 school clubs to students?

School clubs provide students with an

opportunity to explore their interests and

passions beyond the regular academic

curriculum. Clubs allow students to delve

deeper into subjects they love, helping

them develop specialized skills and

knowledge.

Moreover, school clubs foster a sense

of belonging and community. They

bring together like-minded individuals

who share common interests, creating a

supportive and inclusive environment.

Being part of a club helps students make

new friends, build teamwork skills and

develop meaningful relationships that can

last a lifetime.

Clubs offered at Fort Couch include

Animated Movie Club, Art Club, Best

PE Class Games, Crafting for a Cause,

Diamond Painting, Friendship Bracelet

Club, Girl Power Movie Club, Ping Pong,

Smash Brother/Mario Kart, Star Wars

Club, Taylor Swift Club, The Walking

Club, Calming Coloring Club, Book Club,

board and card games, Alt Rock Club,

Chess Club, Fitness Club, GameMasters

Junction, Lego Club, Marvel Club, Nail

Art Designs, Nerd Theory, Pixar Movie

Club, Relaxation Station, Soccer Club and

Watercolor Creations Art Club.

Boyce PTO

Ashlee Lentini, President

The transition from elementary school

to middle school is nothing shy of exciting

and often a little nerve-wracking. In USC,

this transition occurs when our fourth

graders from all three elementary schools

meet at Boyce. These fifth graders are given

much more independence and freedom,

all while navigating many new classmates,

teachers and additional subjects. This fall,

like many before, was a successful start for

these new middle school students!

The children of Upper St. Clair make

this transition one year earlier than most

students in our country, but this was

not always the case. Boyce opened in

1969 as a sixth to eighth grade middle

school for approximately half of our

community and Fort Couch housed

sixth to eighth graders who lived on the

northern side of our Township. In 1985, a

decrease in enrollment over the previous

10 years instigated a shift in middle school

grouping. At this time Boyce became a

school for only fifth and sixth graders,

sending all of the seventh and eighth grade

students to Fort Couch.

Boyce is a special place for many

reasons, but the middle school transition

will always be a memorable time for these

students. The teachers, staff, activities and

experiences are wonderful at encouraging

these new middle school students to find

their place in their more independent

world.

Building Bright Futures: A Look at

the Upper St. Clair School District’s

Elementary Program

The District’s elementary program

prides itself on providing students

and their families an experience that

emphasizes consistency, collaboration

and growth-filled learning opportunities,

while preserving the unique neighborhood

feel of each elementary building and its

community. With a shared commitment

to excellence, all three of our elementary

schools have earned the prestigious

Blue Ribbon recognition from the U.S.

Department of Education. The overarching


... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

PTC

philosophy of the elementary program

is that no matter the elementary school

a student attends, he or she will receive

a consistent curricular experience, with

consistent instructional and learning

opportunities. Our program places a

strong emphasis on continual reflection

and updates to keep our curriculum

current, fosters intentional collaboration

among staff across all three schools and

ensures ongoing support for our highly

skilled educators to deliver top-notch

instruction and learning opportunities to

every student.

Highlighting the unique feel and

historical significance of each neighborhood

school is important. Here is a closer look

at the history of each elementary building

and its community.

Baker PTA

Kelly Meyers, President

We often simply refer to our building

as Baker, but you may not know that our

official name is Albert F. Baker Elementary.

So, who was this Mr. Baker and why do we

have a building named after him?

Albert Baker was born in 1899 in

Adams County, Pa. After earning degrees

from Shippensburg State College and the

University of Pittsburgh, Albert landed

in USC in 1929 where he worked for the

school in various roles until 1960. During

his 31-year tenure here, Albert served as

the first-ever supervising principal (now

more commonly known as superintendent)

of the Upper St. Clair School District. The

Albert F. Baker Elementary School was

opened in his honor in 1969.

Now in its 54th year, Baker welcomed

457 wonderful students and their families

this fall. From those families, we have been

fortunate to build an amazing network of

volunteers who helped us to hit the ground

running this year. Baker PTA kicked

things off with our new family welcome,

staff appreciation events, Spirit Nights,

classroom harvest parties and, of course,

our ever-popular Boo Bash, with many

more festivities to come!

Eisenhower PTO

Jennifer Zofchak, President

Eisenhower is a big part of the area’s

history. Did you know that Dwight D.

Eisenhower Elementary was the first

elementary school built in the Township?

The groundbreaking began on March 2,

1959, and the building welcomed its first

students on Sept. 14, 1959. The original

building had a total of 12 classrooms. Eight

additional classrooms were added during

the summer of 1960, and the building was

fully renovated (to its current structure)

during the 2002–03 school year.

Eisenhower has had eight full-time

principals (along with three interim

principals who served for less than one

year each) in its 64-year history. Mark

Miller, who has been principal since July

2002, is the longest serving principal in

Eisenhower’s history.

Grateful for a supportive network of

volunteers, the Eisenhower PTO kicked off

the 2023–24 school year with a new family

welcome, staff appreciation events, Spirit

Nights, harvest parties, various grade level

field trips and our annual Eisenhowler

event. As the Eisenhower PTO proudly

continues its tradition of supporting our

school staff, students and families, we’d

like to offer a heartfelt thank you to all who

have generously contributed their time.

Streams PTO

Britanny Weiler, President

Founded in September 1966, Carl R.

Streams Elementary School, named after

Dr. Carl R. Streams, our former district’s

supervising principal (1956–1963), boasts

57 years of history. Dr. Streams, born

in 1908, held degrees from Grove City

College, the University of Michigan and

the University of Pittsburgh, along with

wartime service as a Navy lieutenantcommander

during World War II.

One distinctive feature of Streams is

our participation in the International

Baccalaureate Primary Years Program

(PYP). The PYP places a strong emphasis

on inquiry-based learning, fostering

critical thinking skills and nurturing

global-mindedness. It aims to provide a

well-rounded educational experience for

young learners within the Upper St. Clair

School District.

At Streams, we’re more than a school;

we’re a close-knit, student-focused community.

Our PTO events, starting even before

the school year, include Kindergarten

meet and greets, a Kindergarten connection

event and a new family welcome breakfast.

In October, the eagerly anticipated

Stravaganza united our community for an

evening of fun. Looking forward, we’re

excited about winter parties, field trips

and the plethora of activities in the spring.

The PTO remains committed to nurturing

our legacy of community engagement at

Streams through these events.

USC Kindergarten

Registration 2024–2025

Information regarding Kindergarten registration for the 2024–

2025 school year will be posted on Upper St. Clair School District’s

website (uscsd.k12.pa.us) in early 2024. The District operates a half-day

Kindergarten program, with the morning program held 8:35–11:15 a.m. and

the afternoon program 12:25–3:05 p.m.

Students registering for Kindergarten must be five years of age by

Sept. 1, 2024, to be enrolled for the 2024–2025 school year. Proof of residency

within the USC School District is required for enrollment.

Questions? Contact Terri Lott, registration coordinator, at 412-833-1600,

ext. 2283, or via email at tlott@uscsd.k12.pa.us. n


STEAM

Botsburgh Reaches Out

South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM) teamed up

with Botsburgh 11792, a competitive robotics team from Upper

St. Clair High School, to organize an event during the summer

to teach robotics to children.

Botsburgh is part of the First Tech Challenge and aims to

positively impact its community beyond participating in robotics

competitions. This season, they set a goal to engage more than

2000 children and generate a keen interest in robotics. The weeklong

camp held during the summer was their first step towards

achieving this goal.

The Robotic Petting Zoo is a unique activity Botsburgh offers

at their outreach events. Kids are guided by Botsburgh members to

create robot animals

using cardboard boxes

and craft supplies.

To make the experience

more exciting,

they are taught how

to bring their creations

to life and

program movements

using Hummingbird

Kits. These kits come

equipped with small

motors, LED lights

and various sensors

that can be attached

to the animal. By using

a smart device

and block coding, the children can make their robotic pets wag

their tails, move them around or give their dragons glowing red

eyes and a roar.

Botsburgh and SHIM collaborated to organize a week-long

robotic camp to provide opportunities for socio-economically

disadvantaged children, immigrants and mostly refugees. The

camp was enjoyable, and events such as these can serve as turning

points for many young participants, sparking an interest in

computer science and inspiring them to explore the possibilities

of robotics. Komel Nulwala, a junior at the high school and lead

builder in the team, shared that the team connected with more

than 120 kids from over a dozen countries, “many of whom had

STEM

never seen a robot before.” They found the experience rewarding

and plan to hold another event with SHIM. These efforts are

crucial as more and more jobs require candidates to have a strong

grasp of technology.

Members of Botsburgh believe that their involvement with the

campers was mutually beneficial. Zahra Hossain, a sophomore

builder on the team, learned more about responsibility through

her role in the team. Medha Misra, a sophomore programmer who

recently joined the team, was impressed by the kids’ abilities. She

stated, “It was my first time seeing so many different children

from various backgrounds come and work together to improve

their tech skills.”

Medha found it

fascinating to see

how imaginative the

children were. There

was a collaboration

between two campers

with different

ideas—one wanted

to build a cat, while

the other wanted to

build a bumblebee.

Together, they created

a new invention

called “bumble-cat,”

which had bumblebee

wings. The team

was also inspired by

campers who did not speak English, but used Google Translate to

share ideas and contribute to the group. Ben Ross, a junior programmer

on the team, says the following about his experiences:

“I was shocked by how interested the kids became in coding, even

though it was block coding.”

The director of SHIM’s after-school and summer camp programs,

Ashley Bajkowski, said in her statement to Botsburgh: “We

had such a great experience with you and your team. We look

forward to working with you again next summer. In the meantime,

keep doing what you are doing! You are all truly amazing

young men and women and are making a difference and sparking

interest in robotics in our young learners.” n

Miracle League

Camp

The USCHS varsity football and

cheer teams hosted the third annual

Football & Cheer Camp for the Miracle

League of the South Hills athletes on July

12, 2023, in the high school stadium.

USC student-athletes and coaches provided

assistance and encouragement to

their buddies throughout the morninglong

event. n


Homecoming 2023

Upper St. Clair High School

celebrated Homecoming Week this

past September, with a Hoedown

Homecoming theme.

The high school hosted a differentthemed

day throughout the spirit week,

including: PJ Day (wear your pajamas),

Country Day (dress like a cowboy),

Groutfit Day (make it a GRE(Y)at day),

Jersey Day (represent your favorite

team), and rhyme without reason,

twin with a friend (but with rhyming

costumes).

At Friday night’s football game, the

Panthers scored a 42-27 homecoming

win over neighboring Mt. Lebanon

High School. Seniors Michael Ball

and Alexandria Cortes were crowned

Homecoming King and Queen during

half-time. Other members of the

Homecoming Court included Marco

Carone, Diler Cokguler, Gabbie Deep,

Joseph Donnelly, Anna Makoul, Brian

McFerran, Jessica Mueller and Aniketh

Vivekanandan.

Homecoming Week concluded with

the Homecoming Dance on Saturday in

the high school gymnasium.

Homecoming Week was led by the

high school student council members,

in coordination with Brooke Tarcson

and Dr. Steve Torquato from the activities’

office, and building principals. n


LIFE PLANNING

Rediscover yourself

in good company.

Maintenance-free living, chef-prepared dining,

and luxurious amenities are yours as a resident

of Friendship Village of South Hills. Spend your

days pursuing personal passions, or simply

enjoying time among new friends.

We invite you to come experience Friendship

Village of South Hills for yourself.

To learn more, call us at 724-8390-6330

or visit FriendshipVillagePA.com.

1290 boyce road

upper st. clair, pa 15241

independent living | assisted living | memory care | skilled nursing | rehabilitation

Five Reasons Now is the Best Time

to Find a Senior Living Community

We all know that our health needs

change as we age, but how many of us are

fully prepared for that future? When planning

for retirement, it can be difficult to

acknowledge that at some point we may need

a little extra help.

That’s why there’s no better time than

the present to start planning for life at a Life

Plan Community where all your needs can

be met—no matter how they change.

Get the best value

Senior living communities have changed

over the last decade. Today’s seniors are living

on resort-like campuses with access to so

many services and amenities that it feels like

living permanently on a cruise.

Active and healthy seniors benefit from

these communities just as much as those who

need extra assistance. In fact, residents can

often live independently longer because they

have access to housekeeping, maintenance,

dining options and enhanced safety features

that they wouldn’t have in a residential home.

Transitioning to a community early also

means that you will have longer to take

advantage of the financial, health and social

benefits that this type of living has to offer.

Gain long term security

At a senior living community, residences

often come equipped not only with campus

security features, but personal security systems

that can summon assistance 24-7 in an

emergency.

Many older adults also enjoy knowing

that their adult children will not have to

worry about them as they age. Making an

investment in a senior living community

means that your children can rest as easily

as you do.

Streamline your expenses

Imagine having a single bill each month

for all your living expenses. That’s what

you’ll get when you choose a senior living

community and it’s a big advantage. Having

one monthly payment is not only convenient,

it makes planning your finances more

predictable.

Enhance your social life

As we get older, friends and family may

pass on or move away, which can lead to

feelings of loneliness and isolation. Many

older adults move to senior living communities

for the wide range of opportunities to

meet new people, forge new friendships and

engage in new activities.

This is an exciting time in your life where

you can focus on what matters most to you.

That may be learning a new skill, enjoying

activities you love and spending more time

with friends new and old.

Improve your health and wellness

Many senior living communities offer

onsite health and wellness opportunities

and amenities that older adults find vital to

maintaining and improving their quality of

life. Having a dedicated team of experts guiding

your health journey can be beneficial in

managing wellness as we age.

Visit Friendship Village of South Hills.

There truly is no better time to become

part of a senior living community, like

Friendship Village of South Hills, than the

present. Contact us to schedule a tour and

see what the future of community living can

look like for you. n

See ad for Friendship Village of South Hills

on this page.


LIFE PLANNING

Maintain and Improve Health This Winter

Mason Tupta, PT, DPT, CMTPT, DN

Clinic Director/Owner Direct Physical Therapy, LLC

With the winter months approaching, I regularly take

this time to express the importance of maintaining and improving

one’s overall health and well-being. At Direct Physical Therapy, we

welcome continued growth, self-improvement and overall physical

health programs to aid in the prevention of injury, disease and overall

quality of life.

Regular exercise is a cornerstone of physical health. It helps in

weight management, reduces the risk of chronic diseases and enhances

cardiovascular health. Physical therapy, on the other hand,

is instrumental in the rehabilitation of injuries and the restoration

of physical functionality. It plays a vital role in helping individuals

recover from surgeries, accidents or medical conditions.

A mindset I often preach is “control what you can control.” Exercise,

physical therapy and diet are all things we can incorporate

into our life to give ourself the best possible edge in this journey

we all share.

For athletes both in and out of season, this time of year can be

the difference in gaining the edge amongst competitors. Athletes

that participate in fall/winter sports including football, basketball,

wresting, swimming, volleyball, track and skiing can achieve significant

advantages by participating in on-going physical therapy

programs. At Direct Physical Therapy, these programs consist of

injury prevention by focusing on knee stability programs, shoulder

strengthening and full body analysis to pick out weaknesses before

they become set-backs.

Manual therapy, including spinal mobilizations, stretching, joint

work and dry needling/trigger point therapy, is also part of our

treatment plans to assist with athletic performance

and injury prevention.

The same can be said for our spring athletes.

By gaining an advantage now, you can

elevate yourself to be the best version of your

athletic ability by the time spring arrives. Arm

Mason Tupta

care, pitching/throwing programs and rotator cuff strengthening can

never be started too early. And for our non-athletes, staying ahead of

the normal aging processes can help us to stay stronger for longer.

It is easy to get side tracked during the cold winter months—Direct

Physical Therapy is here to keep you on track and assist in the neverending

pursuit of optimal health.

Exercise and physical therapy are integral components of a holistic

approach to health and well-being. They promote physical and

mental health, prevent disease, aid in rehabilitation and enhance

overall quality of life. Whether it’s through regular workouts at the

gym, daily walks or specialized physical therapy sessions, incorporating

these practices into your life can lead to a healthier, happier

and more fulfilling existence. It’s essential to consult with healthcare

professionals and physical therapists to develop a tailored plan that

addresses your specific needs and goals.

We can always become stronger and more agile, mentally and

physically. We can always become more capable and more reliable.

Since that’s the case, we should never feel that our work is done.

There is always more to do. n

See ad for Direct Physical Therapy, LLC on this page.


Live life uplifted

at Franklin Court,

the newest neighborhood coming

soon to the Providence Point campus.

Embrace a refined, independent

lifestyle without the stress of home

ownership — and enjoy our resortstyle

amenities, including fine dining,

a state-of-the-art fitness center,

indoor pool, day spa, and much more.

Apartments are going fast!

Visit ProvidencePoint.org/Franklin-Court

or call 412-489-3550 today.

Be here. Be home.

Be at Providence Point.

LIFE PLANNING

Steps to Take

When a Loved One Dies

Losing a loved one—whether unexpected or anticipated—is

never an easy thing to deal with. The stress of not knowing what to

do when a spouse or a parent dies can be so overwhelming that it can

leave you physically and emotionally exhausted.

While it’s important to make sure some things are taken care of as

soon as possible, it’s also important to remember that it’s okay to ask

for help when dealing with the responsibilities that come after a loved

one has passed.

What to do immediately following the passing of your loved one

• Get a legal pronouncement of death. A pronouncement of death

includes the necessary information to prepare an official death

certificate (which will be needed for dealing with financial matters

like life insurance and assets). If your loved one was in a healthcare

facility when they passed, the doctor or nurse in attendance will

help record the details concerning the pronouncement of death. If

your loved one was not in a healthcare facility when they passed,

it’s important that you call 911 immediately. A medical professional

can assist you with the pronouncement of death and offer guidance

on the next steps to take when someone dies.

• Notify friends and family and ask for help. Determining who

to notify when someone dies can be a challenge. The best place to

start is with friends and family. As you reach out to them, they can

help identify additional names to add to your list and may even be

willing to assist you in notifying them. This can lift some of the

immediate burden off your shoulders.

• Find a loving home for any pets your loved one may have left

behind. Friends and family are often very willing to help provide

foster care for a pet, which can help lessen your stress as you sort

through long-term plans.

• Ensure your loved one’s home and personal property are secured

and maintained. If your loved one lived alone, it’s a good idea to

make arrangements for someone you trust to keep an eye on their

property and make sure routine maintenance is taken care of, such

as getting the mail, watering plants, mowing the grass, etc.

• Notify the decedent’s employer. If your loved one was still employed

when they passed away, you’ll need to call their employer

to find out about any benefits they had, such as a pension or a life

insurance policy. You can also use this call as an opportunity to

notify coworkers and share the details of funeral arrangements.

• Take time to grieve. It’s easy to get distracted when there is so

much to do, but it’s important to pause and let yourself mourn.

Make arrangements for funeral and burial plans

• Locate your loved one’s will. Your loved one’s will includes the

name of their executor along with all the details regarding how

they wish to have their assets distributed after their death. The

executor handles all the financial matters of the deceased to settle

their estate, including paying off debts and distributing their assets

as specified in the will.

• Choose a funeral services provider. When it’s time to make funeral

arrangements, consider your options for which funeral, burial or

cremation providers meet your service needs.

• Prepare your loved one’s obituary. Take time to remember all of

the joy your loved one brought to others. This will help you craft

a meaningful and loving obituary that honors your loved one’s

life. Your funeral home director may be able to assist you with this

process. Consider sharing the obituary on social media to reach

extended family, friends and acquaintances.

What to do after funeral services have concluded

• Obtain copies of the death certificate. Typically, the funeral


LIFE PLANNING

home will provide 10 copies of the death certificate—these will

be needed to help facilitate the transfer of assets. If you are the

executor, you will need to obtain an original death certificate to

be used for probate court and other financial matters.

• Contact all parties named in the will. If you are the executor,

you will be responsible for notifying all parties named in the will.

• Meet with a trust and/or estate attorney. If you are the executor,

it is a good idea to hire a lawyer to help you distribute the assets

properly; estates can often be overwhelming and complicated.

• File the will with the probate court. If you are the executor,

it is your responsibility to file the will with the appropriate city

or county probate court. This will ensure all debts and liabilities

are paid and assets are transferred to the rightful beneficiaries.

• Close all financial accounts and take measures to protect any

forms of identification. From the decedent’s driver’s license and

voter registration to utilities and any subscriptions they might’ve

had, cancel any services to prevent fraud and identity theft.

Settle finances

• Track down and inventory assets. Make a list of all assets and record

their values. You’ll want to include personal property, homes,

cars, bank accounts, brokerage accounts, furniture, jewelry and

more on your list. It might be a good idea to consider hiring an

appraiser if your loved one had items of value, such as collectibles.

• Organize financials. If you are the executor, you’ll need to make

sure your loved one’s bills are paid. You should also notify the

financial institutions your loved one had an account with to let

them know they passed away.

• Gather information about life insurance coverage. If you are

the executor and your loved one was still working when they

passed away, you’ll need to contact their employer to ask if they

were covered under a group life insurance policy. You should also

check to see if they had a personal life insurance policy. Start by

reviewing the will and contacting their financial professional (if

they had one). You could also contact the life insurance company

directly.

• Notify important agencies. Contact the Social Security Administration,

Medicaid and (if applicable) the U.S. Department of

Veterans Affairs.

• File returns and pay taxes. If you are the executor, consider

hiring a certified public accountant to make sure all tax returns

are filed correctly on behalf of the deceased.

• Distribute all assets. Once claims and taxes are settled and paid,

the executor can distribute assets to named heirs and beneficiaries.

Remember: not all of these duties have to fall on one person; delegating

tasks to family and close friends can help ease the burden and

allow you time to reflect, mourn and appropriately grieve your loss. n

The information in this article was obtained from various sources not

associated with State Farm® (including State Farm Mutual Automobile

Insurance Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates). While we believe

it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability

of the information. State Farm is not responsible for, and does not

endorse or approve, either implicitly or explicitly, the content of any thirdparty

sites that might be hyperlinked from this page. The information

is not intended to replace manuals, instructions or information provided

by a manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional, or to affect

coverage under any applicable insurance policy. These suggestions are

not a complete list of every loss control measure. State Farm makes no

guarantees of results from use of this information.

Neither State Farm nor its agents provide tax or legal advice.

Article provided by Cindy Brophy, State Farm ® agent. See ad on page 74.


Your movement

is our mission.

Shaka M. Walker, MD

Orthopedic Surgery &

Sports Medicine

Richard J. Mitchell, MD

Orthopedic Surgery &

Sports Medicine

Stephen F. Alayli, DPM

Foot &

Ankle Surgery

James R. Mullen, MD

Orthopedic Surgery,

Shoulder, Hand & Arm

READY TO TRAIN. PLAY. THRIVE.

This is about building meaningful relationships. Innovative, minimally invasive options.

And the most advanced surgical techniques. St. Clair Medical Group Orthopedic Surgery

delivers data-driven perspective at every step of your health care journey, so you can be

at your personal best when it’s time to meet your goals.

stclair.org/scmgorthopedicsurgery

Your Movement is Our Mission

Ligament or meniscus tears in the knee. Carpal tunnel

syndrome. Arthritis of the shoulders, hips and knees. Ankle

sprains. These are just a few of the common injuries and conditions

that Shaka Walker, MD, and his partners regularly treat at

St. Clair Medical Group Orthopedic Surgery.

If you’ve experienced one of these injuries or conditions,

you are not alone. According to Dr. Walker, “Over the course of

everyone’s lifetime, the chance of having a problem with their

bones, joints or muscles is about a hundred percent. It’s just really

a question of what type of problem they will have and when

they will experience the problem.”

Kids playing at the playground or jumping on a trampoline

can fall and break their wrists or arms. Adults who play pickle

ball or tennis can develop shoulder or elbow tendonitis or tear

their Achilles tendon. Older adults can fracture their hip after a

slip and fall on ice, or they can develop arthritis because of natural

wear and tear over the course of their lives. Almost anyone can

experience neck strain or “tech neck” if they spend a lot of time

looking down at their smartphone or computer.

For those whose lives have been interrupted by injury or

diminished by the pain of a chronic condition, St. Clair Medical

Group Orthopedic Surgery is here for you. Because you’ve still got

a life you want to live without limitations. This team of leading

experts works together to ease your pain, restore mobility and

get your body back in motion—and keep it there.

“What we do is help people live life better. That’s our ultimate

aim,” says Dr. Walker. “To get you where you want to be, we’ll

work with you to understand your goals and desired level of

activity so we can tailor a treatment plan that meets your needs.”

At St. Clair Medical Group Orthopedic Surgery, patients can

expect this sort of personalized care every time. “When you come

to our practice, you are treated like a member of the family. Every

member of our team strives to provide our patients with a good

experience,” explains Dr. Walker. “Building trust and developing

strong relationships with patients

and their families is how we show

our commitment to delivering ‘Expert

care from people who care’.”

St. Clair Medical Group

Orthopedic Surgery provides

head-to-toe orthopedic services

for patients of all ages. From prevention

to diagnosis, surgery to Dr. Shaka Walker, MD

physical therapy, St. Clair Medical

Group Orthopedic Surgery delivers cutting-edge care through a

more personalized approach that gives the team a full understanding

of each patient’s goals.

If you are in need of expert care to treat a bone, joint or muscle

condition, Dr. Walker and his partners are currently accepting new

patients at St. Clair Health’s Dunlap Family Outpatient Center

located at 1000 Bower Hill Road. For most conditions, same day

appointments are available. n

About Shaka Walker, MD

Shaka Walker, MD, specializes in orthopedic surgery and

sports medicine. He earned his medical degree at Georgetown

University and completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at

the University of California, San Francisco. He later served as

Chief of Orthopedic Services and Director of the Sports Injury

Clinic at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. Dr.

Walker is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic

Surgery and practices with St. Clair Medical Group Orthopedic

Surgery.

Discover more about the world-class orthopedic specialists and care

available to you, close to home, by visiting: stclair.org/scmgorthopedicsurgery.

To make an appointment with Dr. Walker or another provider at

St. Clair Medical Group Orthopedic Surgery, please call 412-942-7262.

St. Clair Health’s Annual Summer Swing

This past July, the St. Clair Health Foundation hosted “A Night at the Bayou”

themed fundraiser at St. Clair Country Club where guests enjoyed a night full of jazz,

southern cuisine and fortune tellers.

All proceeds from this

year’s event were dedicated

to investing in the education

and learning advancements

of their workforce. Proceeds

enabled St. Clair Health to

initiate the first phase of its

new education infrastructure

that will develop healthcare

professionals who will provide

world-class services for

generations to come. n


Herd Wintering at Brush Run

The Horses with Hope herd has returned to their Brush

Run winter facility and will come home to the fields of Gilfillan

Farm this coming spring!

2023 was a successful year of equine-assisted services in the

community with 26 weeks of therapeutic riding, 23 weeks of

equine-assisted learning and three weeks of all-abilities summer

camp! Throughout the year, participants of the new, ground-based

Nights of Hope program also engaged in equine interactions to

support mindfulness, sensory integration and coping strategies

to release stress, anxiety or depression. More than 200 participants

were served this year thanks to the

dedicated Horses with Hope volunteers

and generous supporters who made the

equine programming possible.

While the horses enjoy a short

winter break from their usual schedule,

preparation to support next year’s

participants and programs is underway,

beginning with the Annual Bowling

Fundraiser in mid-November and the

start of the holiday and giving season

with Giving Tuesday on Nov. 28. Your

charitable donation at horseswithhope.

org/donate can be doubled if your business

offers a company-match program!

Save the date for dinner, games, raffles

and an evening of festive fun at the

2024 Belmont Jewel event on Saturday,

June 8, 2024!

Join our Horses with Hope team as

a volunteer and make a difference for

members of your community, helping

participants achieve success. Annual


volunteer training for new volunteers will be held in the early

spring. No horse experience is necessary, and volunteers must be

at least 14 years of age. There are also year-round opportunities

for Eagle Scouts, student volunteer hours, community service

and corporate volunteerism. Visit horseswithhope.org/volunteer

to get started.

We look forward to seeing you in the fields soon! For more

information on Horses with Hope: Discovery, Growth & Learning

Programs, visit horseswithhope.org. n

Duquesne Percussion Area Coordinator, Eliseo Rael, Wins Emmy

At the 49th annual Pacific-Southwest Emmy ® Awards,

Upper St. Clair resident Eliseo Rael and his percussion quartet,

Pana Percussion, received three Emmy ® nominations for the performance

of Alex Stopa’s original composition, “Spiral,” winning

two in the categories of Arts and Entertainment and Director—

Short Form Content.

Rael says, “I’m thrilled and honored to receive this award.

The role of percussion is usually to support other musicians in

an ensemble. I hope that this unique project helps to showcase

how percussion can be featured as its own emerging art form.”

“Spiral” is an original composition for percussion quartet that

fuses classical, pop and jazz styles. Rael says of the piece, “As a

musician living in Pittsburgh, I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity

to perform a broad range of musical styles ranging from

playing with the PSO in Heinz Hall to playing a musical at the

Byham. One night I could be playing a rock show with a touring

group like Evanescence, or playing jazz in an intimate club setting.

The music performed in “Spiral” is inspired by this diversity.”

The piece is built around a repeated rhythmic motif: a pattern

of five that can be heard on the vibraphone near the beginning

of the piece. This spiraling pattern is the rhythmic DNA of the

work; a musical double helix. This imagery formed the inspiration

for the title.

The video was shot at the Art Square Theatre in Las Vegas by a

local film crew including multiple Emmy ® award winning editor

and director Michael Tushaus (Digisphere Productions), cinematographer

Tim Harbour and camera operator Gray Gubler. The

recording engineer was

Josh Connolly (Studio

A) and mix engineer was

Robby Wingfield. This

project was supported in

part by the Nevada Arts

Council and the National

Endowment for the Arts.

Pana Percussion

Quartet members are

Alex Stopa, Ryun Louie,

Jeffery Crowell and

Eliseo Rael.

Eliseo Rael is a percussionist,

marimba

soloist, composer and

educator based in Upper

St. Clair who graduated

Eliseo Rael

with a master’s degree

from New England Conservatory of Music and an artist diploma

from Duquesne University. He currently serves as Percussion

Area Coordinator and Percussion Ensemble Director at Duquesne

University. n

View Pana Percussion playing “Spiral” at youtu.be/VteCvHc1K00 or

panapercussion.com, and Eliseo Rael at

youtube.com/EliseoRael.


Protecting Land in the Panhandle Trail Corridor

Lindsay Dill, Senior Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Allegheny Land Trust

The year is coming to

a close and fall is transitioning

to winter. While flora

and fauna make preparations

for a less active time of year,

Allegheny Land Trust’s activity

is in full swing as we work

hard to maintain momentum in saving local land.

As you may have read in USC TODAY’s fall edition, we’re working to conserve

the 221-acre Panhandle Greenway Conservation Project. Located in the rapidly

developing, flood-vulnerable Robinson Run Watershed, the land sits along the

scenic corridor of the popular Panhandle Trail in South Fayette and Collier. The

protection of this strategically located, “keystone” land would create an ecological,

recreational and place-making greenway unlike any in the region by connecting

Settler’s Cabin Park, Pittsburgh Botanical Garden, Collier Township Park, South

Fayette’s Preservation Park, the Panhandle and Montour Trails and other public

and privately conserved lands.

ALT has the land under exclusive contract to purchase and permanently protect contingent upon successfully

raising the needed funds for closing by December 2023. A total of $1,785,000 is needed to conserve the land,

and—as of early September when we’re writing this article—ALT has already raised more than 50 percent of

the necessary funds, and is awaiting news on three major grant applications that should be announced around

the time you’re reading this article.

To make this project happen, ALT’s diversified funding

plan makes asks of state grantors, private foundations, local

corporations and—the final crucial component —local

individual donors. Donations from individuals help close


Keep up-to-date with all the latest news

from the Allegheny Land Trust!

• Monthly projects & events newsletter

Sign-Up: alleghenylandtrust.org/news-events/

• Panhandle Greenway Project Page:

alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/

• Event calendar for details & registration:

alleghenylandtrust.org/events/

Upcoming Nearby & Online Events

Nov. 20 | 4:30–5:15 p.m.

Can You Plant a Pizza?

@ Bethel Park Historical Society

Nov. 20 | 6–7 p.m.

Creating Backyard Habitats

@ Bethel Park Historical Society

Nov. 24 | 9–10:30 a.m.

#Optoutside Hike

@ Wingfield Pines Conservation Area

Dec. 1 | 10–11:30 a.m.

First Friday Hike

@ Bethel Green Conservation Area

Dec. 13 | 5–5:45 p.m.

Webinar: Tracks in The Snow

Dec. 16 | 8–10 a.m.

Christmas Bird Count

@ Wingfield Pines Conservation Area

Use the QR code to learn

more about the project.

the funding gap and serve as the local matching dollars required to unlock the state

grants. We are seeking $75,000 from the community to help save this land forever.

We hope that you will donate, spread the word and voice your support to protect

this close-to-home green space to benefit residents today and generations to

come through preserved air and water quality, unique scenic character, biodiversity

and expanded opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education.

To donate, find ways to support the project and to follow along with the project’s

progress, visit: alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/. n

Quills and Keyboard

When Nikhita Thakuria was in a

meeting about the personal project that is

part of Upper St. Clair’s Middle Years Program

(MYP), she immediately knew she wanted to

do something that involved writing.

Nikhita had been writing since a young

age and during her freshman year received

Honorable Mention in flash-fiction and Silver

Key awards for short story and poetry in the

Scholastic Writing Contest. She is co-editor

of the high school paper, the St. Clarion, and

annually submits to Montage, the high school

literary arts magazine.

What Nikhita didn’t realize was that her

MYP project would eventually develop into

an organization that would reach writers

world-wide.

This past summer, Nikhita, now a junior

at USCHS, created the non-profit organization

Quills and Keyboard, with the mission

to celebrate and promote the talents of young

writers from around the world.

Initially, Nikhita envisioned Quills and

Keyboard as a simple platform for young people

to share their writing and get feedback.

“It’s hard to be a teen author,” stated

Nikhita. “You don’t get that validation.”

Nikhita recognized the challenges that

aspiring writers face when trying to get their

work published. She explained that while

Turning the Big 5-0

Outreach Marketing Committee

Nikhita Thakuria –

founder of Quills and

Keyboard

Ian Coutinho – Quills

and Keyboard web

developer

many young people enjoy writing, they are

often afraid to submit their work for publication.

To address this, Nikhita decided to

take Quills and Keyboard to the next level by

organizing a writing competition with seven

different categories: poetry, short stories,

personal essays/memoirs/speeches, humor,

flash fiction, journalism/critical essays and

science fiction/fantasy.

Open to teens and young adult authors,

free of charge, the core principle of the competition

was to be inclusive and supportive.

Knowing how vital constructive feedback is

for young writers, Nikhita was committed to

providing feedback to every individual who

submitted their work.

She streamlined the submission process

through a user-friendly Google form and

developed an accessible website on Google

sites. Later, Ian Coutinho, a friend from

Unionville High School, volunteered as a web

developer to help create the current website

for Quills and Keyboards.

Nikhita reached out to established writing

organizations for guidance and support.

The response was overwhelming, with Teen

Author Boot Camp giving her the opportunity

to present.

Submissions soon began pouring in. Between

March 3 and May 21, 541 submissions,

comprising over 930 pieces of writing from

more than 30 different countries, arrived.

“I was not expecting this at all,” said

Nikhita. She originally thought she would be

able to provide feedback for the submissions

herself, but quickly realized that she needed

to recruit help for her project. She gathered

a team of 30 judges, mostly high school students

from the Pittsburgh area, along with

a few teachers. Her team worked tirelessly

under a tight deadline to ensure a fair and

thorough evaluation process.

Realizing the immense potential to make

a significant impact on young writers’ lives,

Nikhita plans to continue developing Quills

and Keyboard. She recently received nonprofit

status from the IRS, and plans to have

another contest this year for writers ages

14 to 22, with an increase in the number of

categories for submission. n

For more information, contact

info@quillsandkeyboard.org or visit

quillsandkeyboard.org or on social media.

Pat had a difficult family life, with parents showing little

interest in how he spent his days. Morris had a great family, but just

didn’t fit in with his peers. Anna was off the charts gifted but didn’t

engage with her classes.

To escape the daily grind, these teens turned to drugs and became

part of a group that skipped school to hang out at Mt. Lebanon

Park. It was during one of these afternoons that a counselor from

Outreach approached them. He had a genuine interest in what they

were experiencing and showed up consistently, without judgment,

to listen and learn from the teens who were spending their days at

the park. Eventually, he suggested they visit Outreach’s office in

uptown Mt. Lebanon.

There, they formed groups, talked about their lives and the challenges

that they faced with difficult families, disinterested or absent

parents and complicated sibling relationships. The counselors who

ran the groups understood that the drug use was masking emotional

and psychological stressors; they encouraged the teens to explore

these emotions and issues so that they could create new coping skills

and healthy habits.

This is how it all started in 1974—a group of caring, nonjudgmental

adults making meaningful connections with teens in need of

support, counsel and guidance as they navigated their complicated

worlds. Its why Outreach mattered back then, and it’s why we still

matter today, nearly 50 years later.

Outreach Teen & Family Services’ origins date back to the 1960s

as a grassroots concept between the Mt. Lebanon Police Department

and Community Relations Board. The organization was officially

formed in 1974 under a grant from the Pennsylvania State Law

Enforcement Assistance Administration. In 1981, the organization

incorporated as a non-profit agency with the name Outreach South,

later changed to Outreach Teen & Family Services.

For five decades, Outreach has been a community resource to

help youth and families thrive by providing counseling and educational

programs in a welcoming and supportive environment. While

we’ve evolved with the times, our primary purpose remains to be a

place of comfort and compassion, where kids and families can find

professional counselors ready to guide them along their journeys.

Our core group of clients is still mainly teens ages 13 to17, but

the agency has expanded over the years, and we now also work with

clients as young as five and as old as 21. Issues our counselors focus

on have moved from predominantly drug and alcohol to a broader

range of topics that includes anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment

and family/school issues.

This month we kick off our 50th anniversary campaign with

our annual appeal. To donate and join us as we embark on our path

to continue helping children, teens and families

for the next 50 years, use the QR code below.

Stay tuned for more details about our annual

Connections Gala on April 26, 2024, where we

will be celebrating our history and looking toward

our future. n

We want to hear from you! Do you or a family member have an Outreach

story to share? Contact Mary Birks, mbirks@outreachteen.org, and learn

how your experiences can be included in our 50th anniversary video and

social media campaign. (All stories can remain anonymous.)


Girls Scouts Earn Bronze Award

Six members of Girl Scout Troop 90007 received one of

the organization’s highest honors by earning the Girl Scout Bronze

Award. Haley Allen-Johnson, Renee Clougherty, Violet McLeod,

Chloe Slagle, Petra Stuck and Lily Zimmerman earned the award by

providing Blessing Bags to the homeless.

The project’s goal was to provide Blessing Bags to the homeless

in camps and shelters in the downtown Pittsburgh area and was

completed on Sept. 17, 2023.

Katie Zimmerman, a leader with Girl Scout Troop 90007, thanks

the Upper St. Clair community for generously supporting the project

with donations to homeless supply drives held from May to July 2023.

Once donations were collected, the Girl Scouts sorted and inventoried

all items for their Blessing Bag assembly event. They partnered

with the USC Girl Scout Service Unit for a registration/renewal event

on July 22, 2023.

Community members included current and returning Girl Scouts,

potential new members and friends and family.

Approximately 50 people attended and helped assemble the bags.

The Girl Scouts also served refreshments and organized a field daytype

event with games, songs and crafts. Blessing Bags items included

toiletries, food, water and a note with a kind message in each bag.

The Girl Scouts also partnered with Randi Fowler, a retired City

of Pittsburgh police officer and Upper St. Clair resident who visits

the camps regularly and distributes donations and essential items.

The Girl Scouts provided her with 100 Blessing Bags, as well as Giant

Eagle gift cards and dog supply donations for dogs in camps.

Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship in downtown Pittsburgh also received

65 Blessing Bags. The Girl Scouts attended a meal service on

Passing out Blessing Bags to the homeless at Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship are

(l/r) Violet McLeod, Lily Zimmerman, Haley Allen-Johnson, Chloe Slagle, Renee

Clougherty and Petra Stuck.

Sept. 17, and were able to pass out Blessing Bags to those attending the

service. The troop was also made a monetary donation and donated

bedding items, blankets, boots, shoes, toiletries, canned goods and

other miscellaneous items received from the donation supply drives.

Zimmerman said the Girl Scouts in the troop each took on a

leadership role where they worked individually and as a team on

project planning and take-action items to make a positive, sustainable

impact in the community. Each Girl Scout earned at least 20 hours

of community service for the project. Together, they accomplished the

Girl Scout mission of developing courage, confidence and character

to make the world a better place.

Adult volunteers Amanda Allen, Mariah McLeod and Kate Slagle

and Junior aide Kayla Zimmerman helped make the project a success

with their dedication to the cause. n

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Keifer Drive

Keifer Drive, not far

from the Township border

between Upper St. Clair

and Mt. Lebanon, is named

for Robert Keifer McEwen,

a local farmer and land

developer.

Keifer, as he was commonly

known, was one of

Margaret McEwen and her seven sons. Keifer

McEwen is third from the right.

seven sons born to John McEwen IV and Margaret Ann Smith McEwen.

Born June 27, 1874, he was baptized by Rev. C. W. Wycoff of Bethel

Church, like most of his siblings. The McEwen family lived on the

108-acre David Higbee farm, which they purchased in 1882 along with

its original log house. On this property, Keifer’s parents constructed a

new house in 1895 on what would become Locust Lane. Sadly, John

McEwen died two months before it was completed.

Keifer and his siblings attended Philips School. He took a commercial

course at Pittsburgh Academy for three months before his father’s

health and farm responsibilities cut his studies short. He returned home

to manage the farm and saw to it that his younger siblings received an

education. In 1905, Keifer married Mary Raver of East McKeesport and

erected another house on the property. In addition to farming, Keifer

headed the Allegheny Farm Bureau for 37 years. He died in 1961,

leaving behind five siblings and many nieces and nephews.

Keifer Drive, the street named after him located on what was once

the McEwen family farm, is a reminder of this lifelong Upper St. Clair

resident and his quiet legacy. n

Article courtesy of Carolyn Jones Friedrich, historian,

Historical Society of Upper St. Clair.


Profiles

of people with a USC connection

Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor,

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or

usctoday@usctoday.org

Tammy Singleton-English was elected to serve

as a board member for the Estate Planning Council

of Pittsburgh, which is a professional organization

for attorneys, CPAs, financial planners and bankers/trust

officers who engage in estate planning,

probate (estate administration) and tax matters

for their clients.

She was also elected to serve on the Council

for the Solo and Small Firm Practitioners section

of the Allegheny County Bar Association.

Singleton-English is an estate planning attorney,

CPA and the founder/owner of Singleton-English

Law Offices, which is located in the South Hills of

Pittsburgh and focuses on tax, estate planning and

estate administration (probate) matters.

Former USC resident, Kent

Tekulve, has been enshrined

into the Pittsburgh Pirates

Hall of Fame, along with Dick

Groat, Elroy Face and Bob

Friend. “Teke” was an MLB

All Star (1980), World Series

winner (1979) and holds the

NL record for games won by

a reliever. In addition to his

on-field excellence, he was

honored for his contributions Kent Tekulve and Jay Lynch

to the Pittsburgh community. He’s being congratulated by USC

TODAY volunteer writer Jay Lynch at The Miracle League baseball

field, the charity supported by his book, “The Lighter Side of USC,”

a compilation of stories written for USC TODAY.

Borst Launches Online Store

This past summer, former USC resident Missi Borst launched Curated

Fine Furnishings (CUFF) with her longtime friend Linda Must.

With online shopping being so prevalent, Missi and Linda saw a need for

an online store that sells high-end, consigned furnishings for the discerning

buyer. Focusing on the Pittsburgh market, CUFF provides high-quality items

that are hand-picked by the CUFF team, ensuring that buyers are receiving

a quality product. CUFF also provides buyers with the choice to eliminate

delivery costs by picking items up at the seller’s location, or reduce delivery

costs with local delivery options.

A sampling of brands on CUFF’s website includes Baker, Maitland-Smith,

Stickley, Theodore Alexander and Henredon. CUFF also sells current designs

from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Pottery Barn and Uttermost, to name

a few. All pieces are below the cost of competitors.

Linda Must and Missi Borst

To learn more, visit the CUFF website at curatedfinefurnishings.com.

Evan Pearson, an Upper St. Clair grad and Point

Park University alumnus, is featured in an alumni

success story on the Point Park University website.

The story highlights Evan’s Point Park experience

and the success he has found in Nashville’s music

industry.

“The Sports, Arts & Entertainment Management

program prepared me for my current career path by

pulling back the curtain on the music industry and

revealing how much work goes into it, including

live entertainment, touring, concert productions,

marketing, booking, management and more,” Evan

said. “Working with Pioneer Records gave me valuable

experience learning about artist development

and the recording industry as a whole. There were

also plenty of opportunities to meet and work with

accomplished, current industry professionals.”

Read more about Evan’s story at pointpark.edu/

news-business/saem-alumni-thrive-in-nashvilleentertainment-industry.

We Miss Y’all

(l/r) Ben (age 11), Winnie (age 8), Duke (age 6), Georgia (age 13),

Caleb (age 9), Patrick (age 3), and Mickey (age 13).

The Cahill kids, formerly of Hycroft Drive, send best wishes from

Texas to all their friends, neighbors, teachers and coaches in Upper

St. Clair. They now live in The Woodlands, a suburb of Houston.


Chasing Dreams

Caleb Guarino, TODAY Intern

This past July, swimmer Josh Matheny, a 2021 graduate

of Upper St. Clair High School, competed at the World Aquatics

Championships in Fukuoka, Japan. After finishing fifth in the

100-meter breaststroke at the 2020 Olympic Qualifiers, nearly

qualifying for the Olympic team, Matheny would regroup, learn

from his experiences and train hard to eventually represent the

United States in the 100 breast, 200 breast and 4x100 breast events

at the World Aquatics Championships.

Although racing at the World Championships may be his most

impressive feat, his favorite races were from the meet before. Josh’s

performance at the 2023 World Aquatics Qualifiers, in which he

placed second in both the 100- and 200-meter breaststroke events,

earned him a spot on the United States roster. Josh recalls the moment

he qualified in the 200-meter breaststroke: “When I touched

the wall and turned around to see that I had gotten second; that

was just a moment of pure joy.”

Josh acknowledges the success he has had today is a result of

his past experiences. He shows much gratitude to the USC High

School and swimming program.

“I couldn’t imagine growing up anywhere else,” Matheny states.

“I’m incredibly proud to be from Upper St. Clair.”

Matheny’s high school career is full of outstanding accomplishments,

including being a four-time champion in his events at the

WPIAL and PIAA Championship meets, winning a gold and silver

medal at the 2019 World Junior Championships and setting the

national record for high school athletes in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Matheny credits the high school head swimming coach,

Dave Shraven, as the most crucial influence on his development

as a swimmer, and his mom, Kristin, as his greatest supporter. Josh

admits he would not be the same swimmer he is today without the

influence of his mother.

“My mom was always there when you needed her,” says

Matheny. “She was my number one fan from the beginning.”

His high school teammates, especially 2019 graduate Nick

Mudry, have also helped motivate Matheny and teach him the

importance of a good work ethic.

Now a college student at Indiana University, Matheny works

harder than ever to accomplish his goals. Josh begins his typical day

as a student-athlete by rising bright and early for morning practice

with his fellow Hoosiers. He then proceeds to lift before getting

ready for his day full of classes. Afterward, he joins his teammates

for his second team practice and pool workout for the day. Josh

admits that swimming can be a grueling sport, but highlights that

the hard work is also what he embraces and is passionate about.

“I love the way the sport works with training and whatnot. You

train all year, but it really comes down to how much you’re willing to

put in. At the end of the year, it’s rewarding to know it all pays off.”

He advises the younger generations to stick with it, “because

there are a lot of ups and downs in the sport of swimming. It’s a

brutal sport, and at times it doesn’t seem like it’s worth it. But if

you stick with it, eventually good things will come.”

Upper St. Clair is Panther-proud of our hometown champion

and wishes him luck as he sets his sights on his next big goal. USC

will be cheering him on, along with his mom, as he trains daily to

accomplish his dream of representing the red, white and blue at

the 2024 Paris Olympics. n


Block Party Fun

It’s never too early to start planning a block party for 2024!

We hope you enjoy these photos and that they inspire you and your

neighbors to get together for a party in your neighborhood.

A block party request form should be sent to the planning and community

development department at least two weeks in advance with

the date and location of the block party, along with a contact person’s

name, address and phone number. The director of planning and community

development will grant a letter of permission to the contact

person and have any requested barricades delivered. n

For more information about hosting a block party in Upper St. Clair visit:

twpusc.org/departments/community_development/request_forms.php.

Winter is the Time to Prune Trees

Patrick Tolan, Owner, Arbor Tree Specialists

The time to prune trees is after the first freeze—

usually in October—until early March. When I say pruning, I

don’t mean topping. Topping is detrimental to a tree’s health and

often has the opposite effect of what the home-owner is attempting

to achieve. The effects of topping include the decay of large

unhealed wounds, insect infection, sun scald to the back and in

some cases, death of the tree.

“Stop topping trees!”

The proper procedure is to use proper pruning techniques.

There are three classes:

Class I: Fine pruning is when the tree is completely thinned

out—all deadwood, structurally bad limbs and inner limbs (suckers)

and any hazard limbs are removed.

Class II: Pruning of deadwood and bad hazard limbs.

Class III: Pruning of deadwood only.

For more information about pruning, visit the International

Society of Arboriculture website at isa-arbor.com.

Homeowners should think twice when a tree company agrees

to “top” your trees. This is something we at Arbor Tree Specialists

won’t do.

Always be vigilant and ask for references for both worker’s

compensation and general liability insurance. Insurance certificates

should only be issued by an insurance company to the

homeowner. n

Arbor Tree Specialists work year-round. Contact them at 412-759-7201

or see their ad on page 3.


The Significance of the Community Foundation Logo

When the founders established the Community Foundation, they adopted a logo

illustrating a handshake to signify the agreement to join and work together to a common goal. In the

early years, the needs of the schools were a central focus, with grant funding, which ranged from

academic enrichment opportunities to physical objects for improved communications and learning

with technology.

The current logo illustrates three figures representing the three focus areas of Arts, Health

and STEM. The raised arms of the three figures standing in the shade of a tree speak to the need

to grow and reach for higher aspirations, and the lowered arms signify a reaching out to invite

partnerships to support each other.

The partnership with the schools continues, and since 1993, many other strong liaisons in the greater community

have been established. The Community Foundation partners with many other community organizations, with occasional

funding as well as communications support, continuously helping others to carry out their missions by providing a local

outreach platform to get the word out to residents via a mass emailing service.

If you are not currently receiving our eUPDATEs, please sign up to follow the network of missions and activities

of CFUSC and its many partners that enrich Upper St. Clair and make it the place we all love to call home. We publish

activities and feature news from all corners of the community. If you have something to share, send us news. To subscribe

and receive emails, go to cfusc.org and be in-the-know today by sending an email to the CFUSC communications director

at pfox@cfusc.org.


A Few of the Many Partnerships Since 1993

Bethel St. Clair Rotary Club C2CF Club Community & Recreation Center

USC Eagle Scouts Gallagher Home Health Services Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

Historical Society of Upper St. Clair Horses With Hope Little Lake Theater

Miracle League of the South Hills Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra SHOP@USC

St. Clair Health Town Hall South Upper St. Clair Girl Scouts

USC Band Parents Association USC/Bethel Park Rotary Breakfast Club USC Robotics Club

Upper St. Clair School District USC Rowing Asssociation Upper St. Clair Township

USCHS Sports USCHS Spring Musical Youth Steering Committee

Baby, It’s Cold Outside!

Is a Panthers blanket on your shopping list as

the winter chill sets in?

These plush, silky-soft blankets measure 40 x 60

inches and are machine washable. They are available for

$70, with sales tax and delivery included in the price.

Go to cfusc.org to order one today. Delivery

time is one to five days.

If you have a great idea, visit cfusc.org and select

“grants” under the applications tab to file a grant

application. Trustee applications can also be found

at this same site and location. Become part of the

legacy of CFUSC.

EST. 1993

The Legacy of a Community Leader

Linda H. Serene

The Community Foundation was still recovering

from the sad news of Jim Bennett’s passing when the Board

learned that their Visionary Leadership Award winner had

also passed.

Linda Serene was the driving force who imagined,

innovated and initiated the

establishment of CFUSC in the

early 1990s by galvanizing her

associates and sharing her vision

with them. Her mission to create

an organization that could keep

Upper St. Clair strong is a legacy

that has provided opportunities

and funding for projects that may

not be covered by tax dollars. Her

ability to mobilize people was

instrumental in the growth and

evolution of CFUSC throughout its first three decades, and

the Foundation was able to grant more than $1 million to

the schools and community.

The members of the Board of Trustees continue

to uphold the mission and nurture the legacy that Linda

established, and are honored to continue to walk in her

footsteps. Linda touched an uncountable number of lives in

all that she did. Her inspiration lives on.

Memorial Concert

On Saturday, Oct. 7, the Community Band South (CBS) held a very special concert to honor one of its founders,

the late James Bennett. Jim was the Upper St. Clair High School band director for more than 30 years. Following his

retirement as a teacher, he became the manager for the high school theater, continuing to bring amazing arts experiences

into the community in collaboration with CFUSC, where he served as the longest sitting trustee and arts focus chair.

In 1986, he and his good friend the late C. Dean Streator, then band director at Bethel Park High School,

collaborated to create a band whose mission would be to nurture life-long music making for adult learners. Over the years,

many players came together weekly at the high school to pick up their musical interests and resume playing in a band.

Some had a period of readjustment, having taken off a decade or two or even three from playing,

and some were newer learners who began to play as adults. They began making music as they had in

their teenage years and now they were being challenged to take it to yet a higher level by two giants

in the music education community. Both Jim and Dean were the ultimate advocates for music

education of children, and champions of adults who sought opportunities to continue making

music as a life-long activity. Dean’s influence remains very strong in his home community where

the Bethel Park Community Foundation continues to hold the Dean Streator Tower Concert Series

every summer.

Jim’s life-work was remembered with this concert on the USCHS stage by the Community Band South which is

now under the direction of another dignitary and advocate in music education, Max Gonano, retired band director from

California University of Pennsylvania. Life-long music began for Jim with excellent direction from a music teacher who

inspired him to walk in those same shoes and teach learners of all ages. In turn, he inspired many of his students to follow

his path.

The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair feels that it is only fitting to perpetuate Jim’s mission through the

establishment and launch of a music scholarship in his memory, to be awarded to an Upper St. Clair senior who is pursuing

a career in musical arts. Your donations to the James M. Bennett Musical Arts Scholarship will be “key” in sustaining Jim’s

legacy to children of all ages, and advocacy for the future of music education. Donations can be made at cfusc.org/donate

or checks can be sent to CFUSC 2585 Washington Road, #131A, Pittsburgh, PA 15241.

CFUSC Thomas Harshman

Memorial Scholarship

Winner 2023

At the Senior Awards Night,

Joselyn Seftchick became the first

recipient of the Thomas Harshman

Memorial Scholarship. Tom was a School

District administrator and also served as

a member of CFUSC from day one until

his retirement. As an English teacher and

arts advocate, he established a strong

tradition of theater at the high school.

Joselyn was chosen be to be first recipient

of this award and her future focus is on

theater, technical design and production

She will be applying her award to her

studies at Belmont University.

Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent, Joselyn Seftchick,

Paul Fox, CFUSC trustee and USCHS principal

Dr. Tim Wagner

Become a Sustaining Donor to CFUSC

The mission of the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair is to enrich

our community by supporting activities and programs, to develop partnerships and

to award grants in defined focus areas of Arts, Health and STEM.

Since 1993, CFUSC has continued to achieve its mission because of the

generosity of donors. We operate on a barebones budget to conduct the daily

business of our 501(c)(3) non-profit. With the annual earnings on the small

endowment we hold, we award grants for projects that meet the mission of the

organization. In 2022 and 2023, we awarded STEM grants for expansion of

the USCHS Robotics Club into the middle and elementary schools. In the Arts

focus, we assisted an Eagle Scout with an special project bringing fellow scouts

and the special-needs community together to create ceramic arts projects. We

also supported the purchase of a special electronic digital art display for the high

school arts lobby project. We partnered with the USC PTC to bring in Kate

Leavell, author of “Superpower: An Inspiring Story to Overcome Self-Doubt

and Unleash Your Authentic Greatness,” and also collaborated with the public

library and C&RC to cover half of the cost for the installation of a permanent

story walk. In addition, we contributed to Community Day with a special grant

to help fund the petting zoo, and also sustained a grant with Town Hall South

for their event days. These grants totaled $18,000.

CFUSC adheres carefully to its spending plan, and over the past four

years has trimmed operating costs to create a stronger business model as we

enter our fourth decade investing in residents and their ideas to continually

strengthen our community.

Our annual donation drive begins in November. Please consider

donating to CFUSC! We accept contributions at cfusc.org/donate, where

visitors can make donations, become sustaining donors and learn how they

can become a community partner. Checks can be mailed to CFUSC at 2585

Washington Road #131A, Pittsburgh, PA 15241.


Winter 2023

Affordable Decks & Additions LLC ........................................................... 79

Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ......................................................................... 3

Ardolino’s ................................................................................................ 23

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh.................................................................. 20

* Berkshire Hathaway Home Services ......................................................... 2

* Calabro Tire and Auto Service.................................................................. 29

Coldwell Banker-Dora Rudick ................................................................. 14

Coldwell Banker-Jonette Shanahan ........................................................ 84

* Coldwell Banker-South Hills Office .............................. Outside Back Cover

Crowne Plaza Pittsburgh South............................................................... 22

Davey Tree and Lawn Care ....................................................................... 82

Direct Physical Therapy, LLC .................................................................... 73

* Extended Day Services ............................................................................ 79

Friendship Village ................................................................................... 72

George Girty Landscape Design .............................................................. 29

Greater Pittsburgh Plumbing Heating & Cooling.................................... 75

Guy’s Home Improvement ...................................................................... 29

* Howard Hanna-Diane Horvath................................................................ 26

Advertiser Index

twpusc.org/usctoday

Lewis Music Studio.................................................................................. 29

* Manalo, Larry E., DMD ............................................................................ 53

McQueen Building Company ................................................................. 56

Mister Sewer/ McVay Plumbing Heating & Cooling ............................... 43

Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................... 84

* Mt. Lebanon Recreation .......................................................................... 54

* Pinebridge Commons.............................................................................. 53

Pittsburgh Junk Company ...................................................................... 29

* Providence Point/Baptist Senior Family .................................................. 74

RE/MAX Select Realty-Amanda Walton ................................................... 54

Recon Brewing ........................................................................................ 26

* Rusmur Floors.................................................................. Inside Back Cover

* Scott Bros Windows & Doors ..................................................................... 7

* Sesame Gourmet .................................................................................... 26

South Hills Endoscopy Center ....................................................................1

Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ................................................... 5

* St. Clair Health .................................................................................... 9, 76

* State Farm Insurance-Cindy Brophy........................................................ 74

TODAY thanks our advertisers for their support of our community magazine!

Howard Hanna-Amanda Nasman ........................................................... 37

* Howard Hanna-USC Office ............................................. Inside Front Cover

JAB Jewelry Works .................................................................... Front Cover

Joseph Hegedus LPC .............................................................................. 26

Kathy’s Music LLC .................................................................................... 20

* Keller Williams-Sandy and Marshall Goldstein....................................... 12

* Kerr Dentistry .......................................................................................... 53

KSG Orthodontics...................................................................................... 7

Let

guide you in 2024 with

great ad placement.

Please consider using their services whenever you are able.

Place your ad

in our community’s go-to publication.

Contact 412-851-2851.

30

Upcoming spring guides *The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue,

have contributed their financial support for a

include Celebration and

minimum of 58 issues.

Home Improvement

412-851-2851 | usctoday@usctoday.org | twpusc.org/usctoday

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, the award-winning, official publication of the School District and Township of Upper St. Clair


SWEAT Pgh .............................................................................................. 21

theCoderSchool ...................................................................................... 24

Three Rivers Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery ........................................... 27

* Troy Orthodontics..................................................................................... 53

* Washington Health Systems.................................................................... 54

* Wellington Real Estate............................................................................. 21

Zest Pediatric Network ............................................................................ 55

TODAY

Celebrates

30 Years



Presort STD

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WE MOVE

UPPER ST. CLAIR

South Hills Office

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Brad

Templeton

Jim

Walsh

Mary Ann

Wellener

Cathy

White

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Williard

Jane

York

Milo Hindman

Manager

HOME FOR

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Peters Township Office

Stay warm and cozy in

a new home this season.

Contact us today, and

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perfect winter nest!

coldwellbankerhomes.com

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Paulick

Mike

Podolinsky

ColdwellBankerHomes.com/southhills

South Hills 1630 Washington Road | Pittsburgh PA 15241 | 412.833.5405

Peters Township 3244 Washington Road | McMurray, PA 15317 | 724.942.1200

NMLS ID 1598647

Coldwell Banker and Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC share common ownership and because of this relationship the brokerage may receive a financial or other benefit. You are not required to use Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC as a condition of purchase or sale

of any real estate. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The

Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the

Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 238CS3_PIT_8/23

WINTER 2023 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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