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twpusc.org/usctoday

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

Fall 2025 • Volume 31 • Issue 3

twpusc.org/usctoday • usctoday@usctoday.org

12 Get Up and Ride

32 Commencement 2025

Features &

Around the

Township

8 Driving Us Batty

9 What’s Inside Me?

14 Fifty-Seven Years Ago:

Vietnam

20 TODAY’s Interns

School District

32 Strategic Initiatives Update

42 Middle School Track

Welcomes First Adaptive

Athlete

50 Odyssey of the Mind Teams

Advance to World Finals

56 Pawprints

Township

62 Chief Jon Wharton Retires

63 David Kutschbach -

Reflections on 50 Years of

Public Service

68 Library News

75 Clean Streams Update

Guides/Directories

21 Health & Wellness

22 Pinebridge

76 Educational Resources

Photo Ops

35 Prom 2025

47 Decision Day

60 Community Day

66 United Senior Citizens

60 Community Day 2025 Recap

The fall cover of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

features photos from the start of Upper St.

Clair’s 2024-2025 school year.

FALL 2025 Guides

Health & Wellness

Educational Resources

You can purchase a TODAY cover!

Contact usctoday@usctoday.org for

specifications and rates.

81 Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

2 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY Fall 2025

We are honored to have our

2024

outstanding physicians recognized as

TOP DOCTORS 2025

Rami M. Ausi, MD

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Daniel E. Buerger, MD

David J. Burkey, MD

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Lori L. Cherup, MD

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Frank A. Civitarese, DO

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M. Sabina Daroski, MD

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Elizabeth J. Froelich, MD

John P. Girod, DO

Gaurav Goel, MD

Amy A. Gosling, MD

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Michelle Harvison, MD

Scott A. Holekamp, MD

Andy C. Kiser, MD

David L. Limauro, MD

Jeffrey C. Liu, MD

Xuong Lu, MD

Jay A. Lutins, MD

James H. MacDougall, MD

Richard H. Maley, MD

Ashith Mally, MD

Christopher M. Manning, MD

Robert E. McMichael, DO

Leigh H. Nadler, MD

Lisa A. Oliva, DO

Amelia A. Pare, MD

Jeffrey A. Perri, MD

Brett C. Perricelli, MD

Matthew G. Pesacreta, MD

Kristen Peske, DO

Julia Kisin Polat, MD

Christopher Pray, MD

Raman S. Purighalla, MD

Robert C. Rankin, MD

Christie G. Regula, MD

Patrick G. Reilly, MD

Vincent Reyes, MD

Antonio M. Riccelli, MD

Edward J. Ruane, MD

Theresa Schuerle, DO

Arthur P. Signorella, MD

Robert N. Shogry, MD

Felicia E. Snead, MD

Michael J. Speca, DO

Arthur D. Thomas, MD

Amy B. Turner, DO

Justin J. Vujevich, MD

Jason G. Whalen, MD

Paul M. Willis, MD

Ryan W. Zuzek, MD

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

Upcoming Winter 2025 edition

includes Holiday and

Life Planning guides.

Deadlines:

Articles – Sept. 18

Advertising – Sept. 22

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 31 years

of our publication.

The 123rd 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, Interim Editor

Tina Vojtko, School District Associate Editor

Sarah Beitler, Office Manager, Graphic Designer

Colleen DeMarco, Advertising Executive

Charissa Lauren Moses, Advertising Executive

Kerry Turner, Advertising Executive

Deb White, Advertising Executive

Student Interns

Claire Birmingham

Mark Mansfield Paul Fox Terry Kish Tina Vojtko Sarah Beitler Colleen DeMarco Charissa Moses Kerry Turner Deb White

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

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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

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official magazine, please send a $12

check payable to UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY,

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Board of School Directors

Dr. Danielle Wetzel, President

Michael R. Mascaro, Vice President

Barbara L. Bolas

Dr. Daphna Gans

Kelly P. Hanna

Justin Lamber

Angela B. Petersen

Jennifer A. Schnore

Hallie H. Snyder

The next issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY will

be the winter 2025 issue and will be published in

November 2025. Articles that were submitted but not

published in this issue are on file for consideration

in upcoming issues.

Articles and announcements may be sent to:

Editor

UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

1820 McLaughlin Run Road

Upper St. Clair, Pa. 15241

or email UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY at

usctoday@usctoday.org

Article Information

Editor-in-Chief Terry Kish

phone: 412-286-1482

email: tkish@usctoday.org

Advertising Information

Office Manager Sarah Beitler

phone: 412-286-1363

fax: 412-851-2592

email: sbeitler@usctoday.org

Township Board of Commissioners

Daniel R. Paoly, President, At Large

Pamela L. Enck, Vice President, Ward 2

Dante R. Plutko Jr., Ward 1

Jason H. Graves, Ward 3

Todd D. Burlingame, Ward 4

Ronald J. Pardini, Ward 5

Richard I. Thomas, At Large

Thank you to our volunteer contributors this issue:

Judge Ronald Arnoni, Claire Birmingham (intern

& YWG), Lindsay Dill, Donna Fox, Carolyn Jones

Friedrich, Tim Gagne, Shannon Gallagher, Chris

Gmiter, Ted Hale, Wayne Herrod, Ed Kelly, Dave

Kutschbach, Charissa Lauren, Jay Lynch, Connor

McLean, Geoff and Christine McQueen, Rep. Natalie

Mihalek, Rep. Dan Miller, Jim Shea, Joyce Soung,

Debra Swift and Audra Tobin.

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

tvojtko@uscsd.k12.pa.us to find out how your student

can contribute.

The 123rd 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



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Fall 2025 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY 5

A Fall Note From the Publishers

Matthew R. Serakowski

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Welcome to the Fall issue of TODAY. Cool, crisp days, colorful foliage and

the return of football — and pumpkin lattes — are just a few of the things to

anticipate during this delightful season!

For Upper St. Clair’s younger residents, Fall marks the start of another school

year! The School District section, beginning on page 28, includes an update on

the district’s strategic initiatives, a look back at graduation and prom 2025, and

numerous articles about the honors and awards earned by students and staff.

The Township section starts on page 58 and features a Community Day 2025

wrap-up, articles about various township employees, and tips on E-Bike and

E-Scooter safety, as well as upcoming programs and events at the Library and

Community & Recreation Center.

Also featured in this issue are stories by our talented volunteer writers.

Read about a trip that left Jay Lynch a little “batty” (page 8), an Upper St. Clair

mother/daughter podcasting duo (page 9), a cycling adventure on the Camino

de Santiago (page 12) and Ed Kelly’s poignant look back at Vietnam (page 14).

From cover to cover, this issue of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY is packed

with information about this wonderful community that we call home.

Happy Fall!

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Matthew R. Serakowski

Township Manager

Dr. John T. Rozzo

Superintendent of Schools


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Driving Us Batty

Jay Lynch

In the early ‘60s, our small family took summer vacation

trips to Florida to visit my mother’s parents. They had owned

Brenneman’s C N Buy Markets in the New Castle area but sold

them and retired to Daytona Beach. Visiting the beach was great

fun, but videos of the road trip portions of our vacations would

have made great advertisements for air travel.

Our family car at the time was a spiffy 1958 Plymouth

Fury sedan with the coveted design feature of the day, tail

fins. Although it was equipped with air conditioning, my

father refused to use it. As an aspiring amateur sailor, he said

he loved to “feel the cut of the wind” in his face. Very little

of the glorious fresh air made it to the back seat, as my sister

Bonnie Anne and I inhaled clouds of smoke from his unfiltered

Lucky Strikes and our mother’s Kents. Adding to our misery

were vinyl seats that stuck to and burned any of our skin that

was exposed by shorts and t-shirts.

As a result, we wanted to drive fast and get to Daytona Beach

quickly. However, our father preferred a leisurely pace down

Route 19 (before I-79 existed) with frequent stops at tourist

traps that were promoted via sequential billboards with milesto-go

markers. Roadside billboards were the clickbait of the

time, and our dad was an easy mark. He delighted in side trips

to places of no interest to most suburban families, like antique

farm equipment museums and butter churning demonstrations.

Somewhere in rural Georgia, a series of billboards invited

adventurous motorists to “See the Giant Red Bats, 25 cents.”

Despite lots of whining from family members, our dad took the

bait. He exited Route 19 and followed crude directional signs

along a gravel road for several miles to the attraction. It was

an old gas station with a curtain draped across the service bay

door and a sign that said, “Caution: Giant Red Bats.”

He handed us quarters from the family vacation budget

box hidden under the front seat. We gave them to the greeter,

a toothless man in greasy overalls who told us to be careful.

He pulled the curtain aside, and we entered the filthy service

bay where we saw a chicken wire cage on the floor. Inside the

cage were three large red plastic baseball bats.

The greeter laughed so hard

that he spit out a wad of chewing

tobacco. Several of his buddies heehawed

from a nearby bench, equally

amused at the dumb Yankees with the

Pennsylvania plates. Given the number

of ruse perpetrators, my dad didn’t

confront them, but he was angry. From

similar incidents, we knew to get in

the car and remain silent about the

event unless he brought it up himself.

We hadn’t traveled 10 miles before

Bonnie Anne couldn’t hold it in any

longer. She started laughing uncontrollably

while repeating “giant red bats!”

Mom and I also started laughing, with

one eye on Dad, fearing that he’d go ballistic.

But he didn’t. He surprised us all

when he started laughing too, saying, “I

can’t believe I fell for that. Sorry for putting you through it.”

My sister rewarded his honesty and mea culpa with a

neck hug from the back seat. She reminded him that we all

“fell for it” and loved him just the same. He smiled and even

turned over a new leaf. The remainder of the trip was nonstop

regardless of billboard temptations. When we arrived in

Daytona Beach, the whole family enthusiastically entertained

our grandparents with the story. When Bonnie Anne and I

returned to Eisenhower School, our “What I did this summer”

compositions featured red bats and received smiley faces from

our teachers.

The Georgia con men may have made a quick buck on us

gullible Yankees, but they also fueled a family humor legend

and two A+ essays. As they say, he who laughs last laughs

loudest! n

Bonnie, Bonnie Anne and Jay, 1960

Feedback and comments can be sent to Jay Lynch at

bkefather@yahoo.com.


What’s Happening Inside Me? —

A Mom and Daughter’s

Podcast

Audra Tobin

Sloane Tobin, a student at Eisenhower Elementary, decided

she wanted to start a business. Lacking a clear idea of exactly

what her new venture could be, she asked her mother, Audra, for

some suggestions. The two mulled over some ideas for a few days

before landing on their inspiration: a new podcast to help answer

kids’ endless questions about how their bodies work. What causes

us to throw up? What is blood? What happens to my food after I

eat it? Kids’ natural curiosity happens to align perfectly with Audra’s

professional experience and Sloane’s enthusiasm for performance.

Why not turn those skills into Sloane’s entrepreneurial pursuit?

Audra is a former public school educator with experience teaching

subjects like high school biology and a college-level biomedical sciences

course at a nearby school district. For the past nine years, she

has worked as a physician assistant, primarily in hospital emergency

rooms in the south hills of Pittsburgh and central Pennsylvania. This

background in the classroom and the medical field gives her a unique

ability to explain the human body. Sloane (and her three brothers)

ask the questions; Audra provides answers they can understand.

With the basic idea of a podcast in mind, Sloane and Audra just

needed to decide on a question to address for their first episode.

A trip to the dentist served as the spark. “Mom, what’s a cavity?”

inquired five-year-old brother, Ransom, when Sloane was told she

had a few cavities. Sloane thought it sounded like a great subject for

their first episode. Audra and Sloane began drafting their first script

in February and settled on a fitting name for the podcast: “What’s

Happening Inside Me?” The two worked together to create an engaging,

informative explanation of what teeth are made of and how

cavities are formed. “I believe that no topic is too complex for kids

to understand — it just needs to be communicated at their level,”

says Audra. “And some funny sound effects help, too.”

For Sloane, the project has been a fun way to learn several new

skills, like working with recording software, reciting lines and website

design, as well as business concepts like advertising and basic

budgeting. For Audra, the podcast meets several goals — she hopes

it will help young kids be more aware of how their bodies work and

how to care for it.

“The human body is an incredible thing, and it’s never too early

for kids to understand it,” Audra explains. “Basic medical knowledge

can start at any age and help keep kids healthy. And the same goes

for adults!” She wants the episodes to be fun and informative for

the whole family.

The creators of “What’s Happening Inside Me?” plan to expand

the ways it reaches and teaches its audience moving forward. Through

printable kids’ activities on their website, question submissions from

listeners and partnerships with local organizations within Upper St.

Clair, Sloane and Audra hope to spread medical knowledge in accessible

ways to kids of all ages. Audra also plans to begin releasing

episodes geared toward adult listeners that focus on first aid and

other basic medical information from which parents and guardians

can benefit. In the meantime, a small dream of starting a business has

also become a great way for a local mother and daughter to spend

time together on a kid-originated and -oriented project right here in

Upper St. Clair. According to Sloane, “I just enjoy getting special time

with my mom. And listening to the episodes is lots of fun, too!” n


STATE REPRESENTATIVE NATALIE MIHALEK

40th Legislative District

1121 Boyce Road, Suite 2200A

Pittsburgh, Pa. 15241

724-942-2045

www.repmihalek.com

Facebook.com/RepMihalek

Shedding Some Light on Colorectal Cancer

One terrifying diagnosis.

That is really all that it takes to turn your life upside down.

When your doctor says the word “cancer” it is like a punch in the

gut. Unfortunately, too many of us are getting punched in the gut as

many cancer rates are rising, especially in those under 50.

One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their

lifetime, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. There will be

more than 150,000 cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in 2025, as

calculated by the American Cancer Society. An estimated 52,900 in the

U.S. will die from the disease.

In people younger than 50 years of age, rates have increased by

2.4% per year from 2012 to 2021.

The increase in diagnoses has become so severe that in 2021 the

federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) changed its

recommendation that routine screening begin at the age of 50, or 45 if

there is a family history of colorectal cancer, to 45 and 40, respectively.

If left untreated, colorectal cancer is known to metastasize to a

patient’s liver, lungs, abdominal cavity lining and brain. It’s the second

deadliest cancer in the United States, despite it being highly preventable.

Screening tests, including colonoscopies, can find precancerous

polyps so they can be removed. Living in Upper St. Clair, you do not

have to travel far to get this screening with high quality facilities right

in our backyard. Yes, the screening prep is absolutely no fun, but it

pales in comparison to cancer treatment.

And if you don’t believe me, I’m sure there is someone close to you

who you can ask who has experience with cancer. Just in my own circle,

I know way too many with that experience. My paternal grandfather

died of colon cancer; a young father who I worked with as an attorney

died from cancer; my campaign manager is a cancer survivor; and my

director of communications, who is the inspiration for this article, has

just finished undergoing cancer treatment.

Doctors and researchers attribute colon cancer to several risk factors,

which include family history, having inflammatory bowel diseases,

obesity, lack of exercise and many nutritional factors including a diet

that is low in fiber and high in fat, over consumption of red meat and

highly processed foods, as well as foods that cause inflammation in

the body.

This is just one of the many reasons I authored the Healthy PA

package of bills recently introduced in the House of Representatives,

along with 40 co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle. While the

package seeks to address many of the toxins in our foods such as dyes,

removing chemicals that have never been tested for safety outside of the

companies that are selling them, reducing pesticide use and creating

a transparent process for new chemicals coming into our food supply,

the overarching theme to all of this is health.

While nearly 30% of our national gross domestic product (GDP)

is spent on treating chronic disease, 70% of our calories consumed are

from ultra-processed food, and over half of us are overweight or obese,

including our children. The food companies are raking in record profits

and funding their own science to tell us everything is okay. I can’t help

but think of the many parallels to what the tobacco industry did not

all that long ago, and it prompted me into action in the Pennsylvania

House of Representatives.

While raising awareness for cancer and encouraging everyone to

schedule regular screenings for very treatable cancers like colorectal,

awareness only goes so far. Addressing root causes and actually preventing

that punch in the gut of a cancer diagnosis is where we should

focus our energy. But in the meantime, I hope this serves as a reminder

to schedule your screenings early and often. It could be the difference

between life or death. n

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DAN MILLER

Phone: 412-343-3870

Mt. Lebanon Office – District 42

650 Washington Road, Suite 102

Pittsburgh, Pa. 15228

RepMiller@pahouse.net

RepDanMiller.com

Facebook: @RepDanMiller42

Family Care Act —The Time is Now!

There are nearly four million Pennsylvanians — over

60% of our workforce — who lack access to paid family and

medical leave. This means that the majority of our workers do

not have paid leave to welcome a new child, care for a relative

after serious surgery, help a loved one during a life-threatening

illness or find safety from domestic violence. These are the moments

that we will remember for the rest of our lives. While the

federal Family and Medical Leave Act, passed a generation ago,


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

Back to School: Prioritizing Student Success and

Safety

It is that time of year when students head back to school

after a well-deserved summer break which never feels like enough

time. This transition is a great opportunity to focus on setting our

children up for success as they enter the new school year. Establishing

a routine can make a big difference. School schedules are often

quite different from the laid-back days of summer. Establishing an

earlier bedtime helps children to feel less stressed and rushed the

following morning. Sleep helps children stay focused and be more

productive throughout the school day. These new habits are best to

start a week or two before school starts.

Planning ahead is another way to set up your child for success.

Ask them what they need. Gather the necessary school supplies and

materials early. By putting those pieces in place now, you can make a

big difference in their confidence and performance to start the year.

Maybe read an uplifting book the night before school starts to give

them a positive attitude for the upcoming school year. This is also

an excellent time to reinforce open communication with children.

As a parent, you want to know about issues and address them early.

It is much better to tackle small challenges before they escalate into

bigger problems.

Back to School Safety

Starting a new school year can bring its share of safety risks, but

the good news is that the right steps can help manage these risks.

One of the top concerns for parents is social media. Many experts

strongly recommend setting clear guidelines for your child’s social

media use, including limiting them to approved time limits and

platforms. Teens spend an average of seven hours and 22 minutes

of screen time per day, according to a study done by Fabio Duarte,

“Average Screen Time for Teens (2024).”

Encourage your child to share their online experiences, especially

uncomfortable or concerning interactions. Take advantage of

the many parental control features available on devices and social

media platforms. These tools can help restrict access to inappropriate

content and protect your child from harmful online experiences.

Motivate your child to participate in extracurricular activities. These

clubs and organizations shift their focus towards team building and

in-person interactions.

Review Traffic Guidelines

• Pennsylvania has a new law; you’re not permitted to have

your mobile device in your hand at all while operating your motor

vehicle. Remember to set a good example for future drivers in your

household.

• Look both ways before crossing the street, use crosswalks and

stand a safe distance away as the bus approaches.

• Everyone buckle up; it’s not only the law, but it can also save

lives. Also, make certain you’re using child seats properly and the

children are in a safe child seat and following the law. Contact local

police for exact rules and proper safety measures.

• All drivers, be cautious around school buses and avoid driving

in front of them — some children are much smaller and difficult

to see. Be extra careful and mindful that kids are out and about,

especially the elementary students.

• Keep in mind that wearing headphones reduces your ability to

hear traffic. Be aware of your surroundings.

Update Emergency Contacts

• With younger children, be sure to practice with them their

name, address and a parent’s phone number.

• Make sure your school has up-to-date contact information.

• If offered by your school district, sign up for email or text alerts

via the school’s emergency notification system.

Drivers, Maintain Safe Speeds

• Follow traffic signals and speed limits near schools to ensure

the safety of our children.

Back-to-school season can be hectic and exciting. Proper preparation

and attention to safety can help your family set the stage for a

safe and successful year ahead. I wish you all the best for a productive

and rewarding 2025-2026 school year! n

provides for qualified time off work, it is often of limited value

since FMLA time is unpaid and many Americans can’t use it.

We learned many lessons from the pandemic. We can do

better. New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland have

already created state paid leave programs that have not been

overly burdensome and have effectively balanced the needs

of employers and employees. Another eight states have taken

similar approaches to our own bipartisan, bicameral pending

Family Care Act legislation, with some programs in operation

for over a decade. It’s time for Pennsylvania to follow suit.

Our proposed bill is paid for by small contributions from

workers and businesses alike, with compromises reached for

small businesses. It allows flexibility to employers who use

private insurance that meets or exceeds state standards. Benefits

would be calculated on a graduated scale (using a percentage

of a statewide average weekly wage), ensuring the program is

accessible to as many workers as possible. We are glad to work

on this bill in the House with Representative Natalie Mihalek

and with Senator Devlin Robinson’s companion bill in the Senate.

Paid leave has proven to improve productivity and keep

businesses competitive, and it is simply the right thing to do

for Pennsylvania families. Let’s make it possible for everyone to

be there for their loved ones in those times of need. Everyone

deserves paid leave in Pennsylvania. n


“Get Up and Ride: The Camino de Santiago”

A Cycling Adventure on Spain’s Ancient Pilgrimage Trail

Jim Shea

The Camino de Santiago

Jim and Marty’s 2023 Camino

Adventure by the Numbers

Distance: 305 miles ridden

Elevation: 18,000 feet climbed

Equipment: 29-inch hard-tail mountain

bikes with 2.25” tires

Weight of bags carried on bikes: 21 pounds

Ages at the time of the trip:

65 (Marty) and 60 (Jim)

Estimated total calories burned per day:

4000

Peanut M&Ms consumed per day (each): 30

Weight lost during the trip:

10 pounds (Marty); 7 pounds (Jim)

Starting and ending points: Pamplona and

Santiago de Compostela (Spain)

Favorite city: Estella

Most memorable stop: Cruz de Ferro (Iron

Cross)

“Poignant and hilarious,” says one of the reviewers on Amazon.

“Hilarious and touching at the same time, with some history and a bit of

spirituality too,” says another reviewer on Goodreads.

Indeed, Jim Shea’s second book, “Get Up and Ride: The Camino de Santiago,”

is both entertaining and thought-provoking as he takes readers on a cycling odyssey

across northern Spain with his brother-in-law, Marty.

Shea, a 22-year resident of USC, and his brother-in-law, Marty, are an unlikely

pair whose paths may never have crossed had they not married two sisters from

Greensburg in 1988. “Marty is a big, burly artist and free spirit whose favorite

activity is sitting,” says Shea. “I’m a thin, wiry engineer and Type A executive who

is always on the go.” But sometimes opposites attract: the two have been great

friends for over 40 years.

Sound familiar?

Shea’s first book, “Get Up and Ride,” published in 2020, captured his cycling

adventure with the same character — Marty — on the Great Allegheny Passage

(GAP) and C&O Canal towpath from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., in 2010.

“There were so many amazing and funny things that happened to us on that

trip to D.C.,” said Shea. “Afterward, Marty suggested ‘we’ write a book about

it. Of course, ‘we’ meant ‘me.’ So I started writing. Ten years later, the book was

finally finished.”

Shea’s first “Get Up and Ride” book has sold over 8000 copies and has become

the top memoir book about the increasingly popular GAP and C&O trails. Many

people have said they were inspired to make this journey after reading the book.

In 2023, Marty and Jim were looking for a new cycling adventure. What

prompted them to choose the Camino de Santiago?

“The Camino is nearly 1200 years old,” says Shea. “It’s a pilgrimage trail that

leads to the burial place of St. James, one of the 12 apostles. Most people walk,

which takes 30 to 40 days. Marty and I had just retired and wanted to do something

big. So we decided to ride it on our bikes.”

The Camino de Santiago, or “Way of St. James,” is a network of trails which


converge in the city of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern

Spain. The remains of St. James were discovered there early in the

ninth century. Over 500,000 people will travel on the Camino paths

this year. The most well-known and well-traveled route is the 500-

mile Camino Francés, or “French Way.” This is the route Jim and

Marty followed.

What did they do to train for the ride?

“Marty rides over 100 miles a week year-round, so he is always in

great biking shape. Me, not so much,” says Shea. “We started out in

the spring of 2023 with some easy rides on the Montour, Panhandle

and GAP trails. Then we added hills — I rode the hills of Upper St.

Clair and Boyce Mayview Park many times that summer.”

Marty and Jim decided to do the trip in September 2023. They

started in Pamplona, made famous for its annual “Running of the

Bulls.” The two checked their mountain bikes on the plane as luggage,

but when their flight to Spain was cancelled and rescheduled

for the following day, the bikes didn’t arrive with them in Pamplona.

Jim and Marty eventually got their bikes and started riding west.

“We immediately hit the first big hill, the Alto del Perdón (Hill of

Forgiveness). After training for months, we thought we were ready.

But the rocky, muddy, mountainous terrain of Spain — along with

the weight of our panniers (saddlebags) — made for a much tougher

ride than we were expecting.”

What were some memorable encounters with other pilgrims?

Jim and Marty sat down for a beer in León with a group of pilgrims

from all over the world — England, Australia, Vietnam, Germany —

who had met along the Camino and were walking together. Some

were continuing the next day, some were staying an extra day and one

was ending her trip and flying home due to blisters and ankle pain.

Jim and Marty faced some adversity, too. “One day, after nearly

10 hours of riding in rain, mud and clay, with a strong headwind,

I was tapped out,” said Shea. “My rack was broken, my back was

hurting and we were walking our bikes with our panniers slung over

our shoulders. We still had 10 miles to go, there was no one around,

and it was getting dark.”

Shea continued: “We came upon a gas station, and there was a

man there, filling up his van. I used one of the few Spanish phrases I’d

learned: ‘necesito ayuda’ (I need help). The man immediately opened

the back of his van, helped us load our bikes inside and then drove

us to where we were staying. He was one of our ‘Camino Angels.’

There were many of them along the way. The Spanish people are so

nice and always willing to help.”

Shea sprinkles the history of the places along the Camino into

the story, some of which dates to ancient times. They visited castles,

cathedrals and monasteries that were built in the Middle Ages, rode

along walls built by the Romans over 2000 years ago, and saw cave

dwellings occupied by Celtic tribes in the 4th century BC.

What were some of the most inspiring moments?

“Probably the most inspiring moment was when we arrived at the

Iron Cross, which sits on a 20-foot pole atop an enormous mound of

stones. It’s at the summit of a mountain — you reach it after climbing

over 4000 feet. The tradition is for pilgrims to bring a stone from

home and leave it at the foot of the cross, symbolizing letting go of

a burden. There are literally millions of stones there, many with the

name of a lost loved one written on them. We joined in the tradition

and watched others do the same. It made me appreciate that

everyone is going through something; nobody has a perfect life. It

was really moving.”

Shea describes finishing the journey as another inspiring moment.

“We finally arrived in Santiago de Compostela. We had seen many

pictures, but to be there in person was beyond what we expected.

The plaza was full of energy with pilgrims singing, talking, hugging

and crying. Perfect strangers were embracing each other.”

Any major takeaways?

“Being on the Camino felt like being part of a big family,” says Shea

in the book. “None of the people we met cared about each other’s

politics, religion or ethnic background. The Camino gives pilgrims

time to reflect, converse, and build new friendships; sometimes places

them in situations where they need to rely on each other; and sends

them home with a better perspective on how to live.”

Jim said one of the most rewarding things about writing a book is

hearing from readers about how it impacted them. “Just this week, I

received a message from a man who had recently read the book. He

lost his mother last year, and his father passed away as he was in the

midst of reading it. He said the book inspired him to take a month

off and do the Camino this year.”

What’s next?

Jim says he and Marty are planning their next cycling adventure. “I

didn’t intend to write a book, much less two books. It just happened.

Now we seem to have a series developing. I suspect there may be

another ‘Get Up and Ride’ installment at some point.” n

“Get Up and Ride: The Camino de Santiago” by Jim Shea is available on

Amazon.com in both paperback and Kindle. It’s also available through

Barnes & Noble, Walmart and many other retails. For more information,

visit getupride.com or www.Facebook.com/getupandridebook, or email

Jim at getupride@gmail.com

The Upper St. Clair Library will host an online book talk on

“Get Up and Ride” on Tuesday, Sept 2 at 6:30 p.m. S

ign up at: getupride.com/sign-up-for-book-talk


Fifty-Seven Years Ago: Vietnam

Ed Kelly

April marked 50 years since the fall of Saigon and the

evacuation of the remaining American personnel from Vietnam. I

served as a medical officer with the Third Marine Division in 1968

and 1969, the years that saw the escalation of troop numbers and

casualties. Needless to say, many distant and painful memories

were awakened.

I arrived in Danang in 1968. At the airbase we were met by a

Marine general who gave us our assignments. I was told to report

to Vandergrift Combat Base in Dong Ha, about 120 miles north of

Danang. I was flown by helicopter, and as we were landing, I saw

a man sitting on a pile of sandbags. He ran to the copter and said,

“Are you Kelly?” I said, “I am.” He told me I’m his replacement

and he’s going to snap me in. He snapped his fingers, climbed on

the helicopter and was gone.

I was taken by jeep to the battalion aid station where I met the

eight corpsmen with whom I would provide the medical needs

for about 800 Marines. What struck me immediately was that I

was meeting recent high school graduates, as would be the case

for the majority of the Marines we would deal with.

They had been there for a while and oriented me as to some of

the issues we would face on a daily basis. Taking chloroquine as

anti-malarial prophylaxis was a high priority. Eighteen-year-olds

did not think that disease could affect them, and emphasizing

chloroquine and mosquito netting was a constant. Despite regular

reminders about the importance of a pill daily, malaria among our

troops was not an infrequent occurrence.

Foot problems were seen daily at our sick call. Marines would

not remove their boots for fear that they would not be “ready” in

the event of a mortar or ground attack. Maceration of the skin of

the foot would occur because of prolonged exposure to moisture.

Occasionally, we would have to evaluate a Marine with abdominal

pain. We had no electricity and no lab, so we relied strictly

on physical exams. If our index of suspicion was high enough

for appendicitis, we would ask for a medevac helicopter to take

him to the naval hospital in Danang.

On the morning of combat assaults, iatrogenic or self-inflicted

trauma occurred frequently as a means to avoid combat. Shooting

the foot was reported to be a result of “cleaning my weapon.”

Reported rat bites necessitated a trip to Danang for rabies prophylaxis.

Injecting one’s thigh with saliva caused serious infection

often resulting in a major surgical procedure for debridement.

Psychiatric casualties were sent to Quang Tri where there

was a psychiatrist. I often wonder to this day what I would have

done as an 18-year-old facing combat where I could have been

wounded or worse.

After four months, I was assigned to the Third Medical

Battalion in Quang Tri where I spent the remaining nine months

of my tour. We were responsible for all the casualties and medical

issues that occurred in the I Corps area north of Danang. Though

constantly busy, certain events stand out.

On a particularly hot day, the Second Battalion Sixth Marines

were cooling off in a river when they were ambushed by troops

from the North Vietnamese Army. I recall a constant flow of

medevac helicopters and operating day and night. The operating

rooms were so busy that an anesthesiologist who was adept

in blocks maximized the operating rooms we ordinarily used for

local anesthesia. Unfortunately, many passed away, and it was the

Triage preparing for the arrival of casualties


Triage with casualties

duty of one of the medical officers to confirm the fatality in graves

registration. Many were between the ages of 18 and 22.

Much of Vietnam is a jungle. We had three incidents where

the Marine guarding the perimeter at night was attacked by a tiger.

Two of them were fatally injured. We suspected the tiger was

ultimately shot by a Marine officer who was a big game hunter.

In the rear areas, the smell of marijuana was obvious. Unfortunately,

heroin became available and we dealt with a few fatal

overdoses. I do not recall that the problem of drug usage was ever

formally addressed.

After 13 months, I flew from Danang to the United States.

When I arrived in Vietnam I didn’t know what to expect. I look

back at it as a senseless loss of life. During the residency which

I began when I arrived home, I saw the survivors, young men

with head injuries, amputations and various other injuries, not

to mention addiction and mental health issues. These experiences

reinforced my feelings.

I was occasionally asked in an accusatory manner, what were

you doing there? My response: I am a physician and my obligation

was to provide care for injured soldiers. That answer was not

always adequate for some.

Robert McNamara served as the Secretary of Defense from 1961

to 1968 when he resigned. The escalation of troop numbers was

requested by General Westmoreland and approved by McNamara.

A book that he authored, “In Retrospect,” expresses his regret for

the tragedy of Vietnam. There is also a book, “The Fog of War,”

which deals with the complexities of decision making during a

war as expressed by McNamara. The focus of the book is lessons

from the life of Robert McNamara. n

Corpsman filling sandbags for bunker

Remote Learning

Carolyn Jones Friedrich

Before YouTube how-to videos and classes over

Zoom, one way to learn when a teacher could not teach in

person was through correspondence courses. The Historical

Society of Upper St. Clair has one example of an Upper St.

Clair resident subscribing to the U.S. School of Music out

of New York City.

J.P. Hoffman, who lived on Fort Couch Road, received

at least 12 piano lessons by mail around 1904. Based on the

Hoffman family tree, I suspect the lessons may have been

for his older children, ranging in age from 8 to 15 years old.

Each lesson arrived packaged in a cardboard tube mailed

with a one cent stamp. Inside was a single sheet

of piano music and a page of instructions that

guided the pupil on which techniques to focus

upon, how often to practice, and which hand

or fingerings to use to successfully perform the

piece. Seeing as how the music is still tightly

rolled over a hundred years later, I can imagine

that clothespins or some other method for keeping

the sheet music unfurled would have been

a necessary part of this distance education. n


TODAY’s Talent: Yuxiang Jiang Performs at Friendship Village

Charissa Lauren

On June 8, 2025, one of Upper St. Clair’s own, Yuxiang

Jiang, performed his senior piano recital at Friendship Village

with works by Chopin, Schumann, Liszt and Animenz. Extraordinarily

talented, Yuxiang graduated this year. He has been

taught piano by instructor, Jimmy Lu, since he was six-years-old.

“Even when he was young, I could tell he had a real talent

for the piano,” said Lu. “He would learn everything I assigned

quickly and with great enthusiasm. He loved a challenge and

never once complained that something was too difficult. From

the very beginning, he showed a natural curiosity and determination

towards music that stood out.”

Within the last 12 years, Yuxiang has received superb

credentials with multiple top-three finishes at the Pittsburgh

International Piano Competition and a performance at the

renowned Carnegie Hall in New York. His piano teacher goes

on to tell the iconic Carnegie Hall story, “Yuxiang was also “tao

qi,” as we say in Chinese — rambunctious and energetic. He

managed to injure himself often, usually from sports or other wild activity.”

Just a week before he was scheduled to perform Chopin at Carnegie Hall

in 2019, Yuxiang had broken a finger during basketball, meaning he would

now need a cast for his big performance.

They debated cancelling the event but held an emergency practice to

rework the piece with only three fingers. “A few days later at the practice

recital, it honestly didn’t go well. But Yuxiang told me he would practice and

make it work. And he did,” Jimmy Lu recalled. “When the big day came, in

one of the most iconic concert halls in the world, he played beautifully. The

audience probably had no idea he only used three fingers on his right hand.”

Among his accomplishments, Yuxiang has received the highest level

of the ABRSM Piano Performance exam with distinction. When he isn’t

playing piano, Yuxiang has been a decorated athlete with the high school

volleyball team for four years. This fall, he will be attending Virginia Tech to

study mechanical engineering and continue volleyball at the club level. n


Why Hearing Matters

Debra Swift, Owner/President Swift Audiology

If you were fortunate to have a grandmother like mine,

you were truly blessed! As a child, I couldn’t wait to spend the

weekend at my grandparents’ house. Simple things like cocoa with

melting marshmallows to dunk my toast in, a half cantaloupe filled

with vanilla ice cream or the best homemade raisin-filled cookies

in the world were always available — meals that were always so

delicious, you never wanted to leave the table.

I would cry when my mom came to take me home (I was

blessed with a great mother, too). My gram made me feel like the

most special person in the world until she passed at 92 years of

age. She was a true inspiration in my life.

Little Edith was there for all of us, and at 4-foot-10, she was

the strongest woman I’d ever known, spiritually, emotionally and

physically. Like many people of her era, she worked so hard, both

inside and outside of the home. For over 45 years, she worked

at Channellock in Meadville, lifting heavy trays of tools, then

went home and tended to her large garden and canned and froze

vegetables, not only for herself, but for family and neighbors. She

was always our “rock.” She never judged, always listened and of

course, was in my corner.

As a hearing healthcare provider, I kept my grandmother wearing

hearing aids for over 25 years. She remained active, sharp and

clear-minded, and could talk to me like my best friend. This is

why “Hearing Those We Love” matters so much.

At the age of 90, my grandmother suffered a mini-stroke

that affected her hearing and central auditory processing. It

immediately created a wall and barrier around her, and it was

heart-wrenching for me to see her frustration and inability to

easily communicate. There was nothing I could do to help her.

She could hear, but not well, even with hearing aids. She could

talk, but not really communicate fully in a conversation, and

finally, she withdrew.

Never before in my career did I fully realize how our quality

of life was so greatly impacted by one’s ability to communicate

and interact with the world. I had spent a lifetime studying and

observing hearing loss through our patients. I witnessed their

improvements through hearing aids, both cognitively and emotionally,

through clinical verification and in their stories. However,

I did not experience the pain of hearing loss until it involved my

dearest friend and me.

How thankful we all are for the “gift of better hearing.” Hearing

aids, along with professional care and services, offer an active

and “in touch” way of life. “If the eyes are the window to the soul,

then surely our ears are the doorway to our heart.” This is why

our hearing matters so much. n

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Reflecting on Wingfield Pines & Growing Settlers Cabin Park

Lindsay Dill, Allegheny Land Trust

We’ve had a wonderful time enjoying,

improving and sharing the land with all

of you this summer! As we head into fall, we’re

reflecting on a season of activity, continuing to

work hard on saving local land near you and

looking forward to sharing nature knowledge

with attendees of our upcoming environmental

education events.

If you’ve explored Wingfield Pines this summer,

we hope you were able to meet our 2025

John Hamm Conservation Intern Jack Hruby.

Jack worked with ALT staff, partners and volunteers

to maintain and improve Wingfield’s

habitat with effective fieldwork and enhanced

the visitor experience through managing features

of the land. While his internship will soon come

to a close, we at ALT know Jack will go on to

great things.

Beyond the borders of Wingfield Pines

and Upper St. Clair, we’ve been working to

conserve another green space as part of the

“Panhandle Greenway Conservation Project”

— a years-long, landscape-scale effort to create

an ecological, recreational and place-making

greenway unlike any in the region. In 2024, we

closed on the first two phases of the project, conserving

251 acres of critical green space thanks

to help from supporters like you.

In more great news, we have the chance to

conserve more close-to-home green space this

year. We’re working on conserving another 30

acres of green space in Collier Township that will

expand Settlers Cabin Park and continue this

conservation effort. These woodlands are located

in the rapidly developing and flood-vulnerable

Robinson Run Watershed along the scenic corridor

of the popular Panhandle Trail.

Conserving this land will also contribute to

the health and wellbeing of our communities

by protecting scenic beauty and wildlife habitat,

absorbing stormwater to prevent flooding and

sustain water quality, filtering pollutants to create

cleaner air and conserving opportunities

for close-to-home outdoor recreation.

We need your help to save this land

and expand Settlers Cabin Park! We

have a multi-pronged funding plan in

place to raise the necessary funds by

Sept. 30, 2025, that includes funding

from state, foundation, county, corporate

sources and individuals like you.

We need to raise $40,000 from community

members to unlock state-level

grants by demonstrating local support,

and to meet our funding goal.

We hope you’ll support this effort

and share the information with your

neighbors and friends who enjoy clean

air and water, regional trails and the high

quality of life Pittsburgh’s close-to-home

green space provides. More information

or to support this project, visit: alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/.

Thank you, and we hope to see you

on the land soon. n

Keep up to date with all the latest news

from the Allegheny Land Trust!

• Monthly Projects & Events Email Newsletter

Sign-Up: alleghenylandtrust.org/news-events/

• Panhandle Greenway Project Page:

alleghenylandtrust.org/panhandlegreenway/

• Event Calendar for Details & Registration:

alleghenylandtrust.org/events/

Webinar Series

Aug. 20 | 5–5:45 p.m. | Native Plants 101

Sept. 11 | 12–1 p.m. | Lunch & Learn: Carnivorous

& Parasitic Plants of Pa.

Sept. 24 | 5–5:45 p.m. | Saving Seeds and Reducing

Food Waste

Find these events and more at:

alleghenylandtrust.org/events


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TODAY’s Interns

Isabel Vilensky

Caleb Guarino

Claire Birmingham

In addition to keeping our Upper St. Clair readers informed, an important aspect of TODAY magazine is providing aspiring

young writers the opportunity to further develop their skills as interns. This fall we send a sincere thank you and best wishes to two

recent USCHS graduates — Caleb Guarino and Isabel Vilensky.

Caleb, a two-year intern, will attend Case Western Reserve University in the fall, with plans to major in chemical engineering,

minor in nuclear engineering and compete for the cross country and track teams.

“Time spent with TODAY was time well spent,” Caleb said. “It was a pleasure to share my abilities with the township I loved so

dearly.”

He thanks TODAY for their hospitality and wishes the staff

and magazine continued success in the future.

Writing for TODAY throughout her senior year, Isabel describes

her internship as an “incredible experience.”

“I’m so thankful for this amazing opportunity to work with

such a wonderful team perceptive to an inordinate variety of

topics,” she said. “We were essentially able to write about virtually

anything, and the chance to participate in something that

fosters such creativity goes duly appreciated.”

Isabel plans plan to major in economics at the University of

Pittsburgh in the fall.

Joining the TODAY staff as an intern this year is Claire

Birmingham, a rising sophomore. She is very involved in the

USCHS community and enjoys interacting with her school

peers. In addition to writing for the magazine, she is an active

member of Student Council, the Speech & Debate team, the

school’s gifted education program, girls basketball team and

flag football team. Claire is considering a future career in the

marketing or communications field.

An enthusiastic writer, Claire has written two articles for

previous issues of the magazine. She plans to combine her

love of writing and her involvement in the community to share

exciting events going on with the whole district through her

articles. She is excited about writing for the magazine, and is

looking forward to getting even more involved with the school

district’s communications program. n

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Wellness and Homeownership:

Creating a Space That Supports a Healthy Life

Shannon Gallagher

Wellness is often associated with diet and exercise,

but one of the most overlooked contributors to well-being is our

living environment. Homeownership offers a unique opportunity

to enhance our life by providing stability, comfort and the freedom

to create a space that truly supports a healthy lifestyle.

Owning a home means having control over your surroundings.

This allows homeowners to make intentional choices that

benefit their physical and mental health. From designing restful,

1/17/25 3:36 PM

peaceful spaces to choosing air-purifying plants or selecting nontoxic

materials, a quiet bedroom and a sunlit kitchen can improve

mood and support better sleep.

Homeownership also provides a sense of security and stability

that renters may not experience. Knowing that an environment

is your own can help reduce anxiety, fosters a deeper connection

to your space and can encourage more intentional living. Many

homeowners report that having a permanent home allows them

to focus more on self-care, hobbies and meaningful

relationships.

Outdoor space is another important aspect.

Homeowners tend to enjoy their yards, patios and

gardens, which make it easier to spend time in

nature, grow food or simply relax outside — all of

which contribute to overall wellness.

In short, a home is more than just shelter. It’s a

foundation for health, a place to recharge and a reflection

of who we are. When thoughtfully designed

and maintained, homeownership becomes not just

a financial investment, but a lifelong investment in

personal wellness. n

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The Importance of Family Meetings

With a new school year upon us, it’s likely that many

families’ calendars are already starting to fill up. It might feel counterintuitive

to add something else to your busy schedule, but holding

regular family meetings is an effective way to stay organized and

manage all your tasks more efficiently over the long term.

Family meetings offer regularly scheduled face time where the

agenda is focused solely on understanding and connection. It’s an

occasion for each person’s strengths, accomplishments, feelings

and experiences to be acknowledged and validated. Families may

also choose to utilize their meetings to create meals plans, discuss

household responsibilities and share about the effectiveness of said

processes.

Knowing a meeting is on the horizon helps provide a sense of

consistency, safety, and belonging that gives folks a chance to cool

down when problems arise. Family members can get clear on which

values and expectations are most important to them and why. It also

leads to opportunities to collaborate on repair plans if a value or

expectation has been forgotten.

When children feel heard and empowered to contribute to the

harmony of their family, they experience the world with greater

self-efficacy and trust. Here are some ideas for how to approach

family meetings:

• Choose a day when there is adequate time to conduct the meeting

thoroughly. It’s always a good idea to pad the time before or after

a meeting with an activity that nurtures connection and belonging.

This serves to reassure that no matter the content discussed, everyone

is loved and belongs.

• Create agreements that model your family’s values and display

them at each meeting. Some examples are: “One person talks at a

time.” “Use respectful language.” “Anyone can take a break, but

you must come back.” As time goes on, you can always add new

agreements.

• Have an agenda. Regular topics like schedules, meal plans,

grades and assignments can be recurring, but when you need to

address something specific and out of the ordinary, it can help to

post a running list of topics for everyone to see. This helps reduce

potential anxiety so no one is caught off guard.

• Use your first couple of meetings to establish your family values

and expectations together. Parents, remember, everyone is accountable.

We model the behavior and values we hope to encourage.

• Be flexible. This practice can change as your family changes.

• Remember that this time serves to unite the family toward collective,

equitable goals and decision-making. n

For more information, visit outreachteen.org/events/. Also follow us

on Facebook (@Outreach Teen & Family Services) and Instagram

(@outreach_teen) for updates on our latest offerings! Questions

can be emailed to mzangara@outreachteen.org.


#MBCDreamHome

www.mcqueenbuildingcompany.com

Luxury That Pays Off: High-End Renovations That Boost Resale Value

Geoff and Christine McQueen

When we talk with clients about

potential home renovations, they have

two key questions in mind: Which renovations

will add the most resale value to

our home? And which renovations will

bring us the most joy?

For our clients who own luxury, highend

homes, the best answers to these

questions involve five key concepts.

Choose high-end materials.

It’s useful to work with a design

professional to make these choices,

because a higher price or a well-known

brand name doesn’t necessarily make

something high-end. Consider luxurious

finishes for the household things that

are touched every day, like plumbing

(faucets, etc.) and electrical (switches,

built-in lighting, etc.). Exceptional quality

in things like millwork, cabinetry and

countertops will impact daily life in a

really positive way.

Make energy-efficient, top-quality

upgrades to your home’s “envelope

technology.”

Give real thought to the shell of your

home — things like insulation, windows

and doors. These are not sexy items, we

know, but investing in them can elevate

your home in a way that luxury buyers

will notice. It’s an investment that makes

your home generational.

Also, invest in renewable upgrades

like solar and thermal energy technology

to offset the cost of electric and gas. And

add LED lighting wherever possible.

Create serious curb appeal.

In the last 10 years, curb appeal has

become even more important in the

luxury home market. People are making

serious investments in more than just

landscaping. Consider things like a highquality

portico that offers entry drama.

It offers shade and cover for packages

(high-end buyers are likely people who

get a lot of packages), plus privacy.

Other curb appeal priorities: Regular

maintenance is key. Keep the exterior

freshly painted, brick freshly pointed,

and any siding well cared for and up to

date. There’s nothing less practical than

doing a $1M interior renovation but

having an exterior that isn’t exceptional.

Plan it now.

Just as a lush, mature lawn looks far

better than one that’s just been planted, a

freshly remodeled home doesn’t present

as well as one that’s been expertly renovated

and well-maintained over time.

So, plan the renovations you want

now and enjoy living with them. When

you’re ready to sell, your home will be a

sought-after property.

Expanding usable square footage.

Many luxury homes that we work on

have tall ceilings in their attics. An attic

conversion to add one or two bedrooms

and a bath is a great investment, even

if you won’t use those bedrooms often.

You’re increasing square feet, thus noticeably

lowering your price per square foot.

Another approach to expand square

footage: Add a luxurious sunroom to create

a three-season space with accordion

doors that invite the outside in. Given

Pittsburgh’s climate, future buyers will

love to see a covered and perhaps airconditioned/heated

three-season room.

People love outdoor living spaces with

a fireplace, roof overhead, an outdoor

kitchen and areas to lounge and eat.

High-quality exterior lighting completes

the picture.

When people ask which of these to

prioritize, we let them know, at a luxury

price point, you’re not looking simply

at one of these things. Ideally, you’re

incorporating all of them to ensure that

your property has the timeless quality of

a legacy home.

By keeping all these ideas in mind,

you can make design choices that will

bring you real happiness today and impress

the high-end buyers you will one

day be seeking when you’re ready to sell

your home. n

To learn more, visit mcqueenbuildingcompany.com or visit our social channels to view our latest projects. See ad for McQueen Building Company on previous page.


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UPPER ST. CLAIR HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF ‘01

75 Years

1-800-9-4EDGAR

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Horses With Hope:

A Year of Growth and Changes

Tim Gagne

It’s been quite a year of growth and

changes for Horses With Hope: Discovery,

Growth and Learning Programs. The therapeutic

riding nonprofit that serves Upper

St. Clair and other communities throughout

Southwest Pennsylvania has been seeing unprecedented

growth of its programs in several

ways thanks to exciting collaborations with

other area organizations.

Consolidation of Equine Programs

For the past couple of years, Horses

With Hope has offered therapeutic riding,

equine-assisted learning and other horsebased

programs at both Gilfillan Farm here

in Upper St. Clair and at its other location on

Brush Run Road in Bethel Park. But without

good indoor facilities, Horses With Hope

came to realize that this limited the times

of year when programs could be offered, as

well as the number of participants that could

be served.

Then its friends at Empress Farms (formerly

Empress Arabians) in Venetia, Pa.,

made HWH an offer it couldn’t refuse — a

place to board up to six horses and use of the

adjacent indoor riding ring (with a covered

viewing area for families). So, while it was a

tough decision to change what was working

well, it made even more sense for Horses

with Hope to consolidate equine programs at

Empress Farms. With its indoor riding ring,

Horses With Hope can hold more and longer

riding sessions, which is helping to alleviate

a three-year waiting list.

A New Collaboration with the Historical

Society of Upper St. Clair

If you’ve been walking along the township

trail that surrounds Gilfillan Farm, and

you’ve heard a baa-baa here and a baa-baa

there, don’t worry. You’re not hearing things.

Looking to maintain its connection to

the Upper St. Clair community, Horses with

Hope began a new Gilfillan Farm-based

collaboration with the Historical Society

of Upper St. Clair (hsusc.org/) by bringing

Dorset sheep back to the Orr road farm

where they were historically raised. Three

ewes — Antoinette (“Toni”), Pepper and

Pom Pom — arrived at Gilfillan Farm in May,

and they’ve been doing great ever since. As

the sheep continue to become established at

Gilfillan Farm, Horses With Hope plans to

develop programming to enable the public

to interact with the flock and connect with

Gilfillan Farm.

To learn more about Horses With Hope’s

programs or to donate or volunteer, visit

horseswithhope.org/. n

To make a donation or learn about more ways to get involved, visit horseswithhope.org/donate.


Board of

School Directors

Dr. Danielle Z. Wetzel

President

dwetzel@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Barbara L. Bolas

bbolas@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2027*

Upper St. Clair School District

Michael R. Mascaro

Vice President

mmascaro@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Dr. Daphna Gans

dgans@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

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. Rachel Andler ......................................................Julie Karabinos......................................... 2116

Director of Special Education

jkarabinos@uscsd.k12.pa.us

Dr. Lou Angelo ..........................................................langelo@uscsd.k12.pa.us........................... 2272

Director of Administrative Services

Ray Berrott.................................................................rberrott@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2059

Director of Technology

Sean Bryson ...............................................................sbryson@uscsd.k12.pa.us.......................... 2560

Chief of School Police

Scott Burchill ............................................................Dawn Machi ............................................ 2220

Director of Business and Finance

dmachi@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

Dan Snyder.................................................................Karen Powers............................................ 2363

Director of Operations & Facilities................................kpowers@uscsd.k12.pa.us

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

Kelly P. Hanna

khanna01@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2027*

Justin Lamber

jlamber@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2027*

Dr. John Rozzo


Dr. Amy Pfender

Deputy Superintendent

Angela B. Petersen

apetersen@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2027*

Jennifer A. Schnore

jschnore@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2025*

Dr. Rachel Andler

Director of

Special Education

Dr. Lou Angelo

Director of Administrative

Services

Ray Berrott

Director of Technology

Hallie H. Snyder

hsnyder@uscsd.k12.pa.us

2027*

*Date indicates expiration of term.

The list of the Upper St. Clair

Board of School Directors

meeting dates is available

on the District’s website:

uscsd.k12.pa.us/

information/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. Timothy Wagner

High School Principal/Supervisor of

Seconday Education

Dr. Daniel Beck

High School Assistant Principal

Dr. Cara Senger

High School Assistant Principal

Dr. Lauren Madia

Director of Pupil Services

Dan Snyder

Director of Operations &

Facilities

School District Building Administration

Dr. Daniel O’Rourke

Boyce Middle School Principal/

Supervisor of Middle Level Education

Dr. Christine Mussomeli

Boyce Assistant Principal

Erin Stehle

Fort Couch Middle School Principal

Gordon Mathews

Fort Couch Assistant Principal

Bradley Wilson

Director of Strategic Initiatives

Mark Miller

Eisenhower Elementary

School Principal/Supervisor of

Elementary Education

Dr. Patrick McClintock-Comeaux

Baker Elementary School Principal

Dr. Lindsay Klousnitzer

Streams Elementary School Principal

Dan Beck Named National Finalist for Assistant Principal of the Year

Upper St. Clair High School’s Dr.

Dan Beck was one of three finalists for

the 2025 National High School Assistant

Principal of the Year award. The other two

finalists include Rahsaan “Saani” Perry from

South Carolina and Dr. La Faye Howard

from Maryland.

Sponsored by the National Association of

Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the

award recognizes outstanding middle level

and high school assistant principals who

have succeeded in providing high-quality

learning opportunities for students as well

as demonstrating exemplary contributions

to the profession.

Each of the finalists was asked to bring an

item that symbolizes who they are as leaders

and/or people. Beck brought a piece of

rope to illustrate groups of people working

together to create strong bonds that shape

the culture of the Upper St. Clair community.

“The three colors of this braided piece

of rope represent the students, parents and

teachers that I serve and work with,” Beck

explained. “Intertwining multiple strands

makes a rope significantly stronger — supporting

three to four times more weight than

individual strands alone. Assistant principals

play a key role in helping these different

groups weave together, strengthening their

connections and preventing them from fraying

or unraveling.”

Beck was named Pennsylvania’s 2025

Assistant Principal of the Year by the

Pennsylvania Principals Association in

November 2024. A former secondary

English teacher, Beck joined the USCHS

leadership staff in 2013.

In addition to his role as a school administrator,

Beck serves in a variety of leadership

roles within the greater educational community.

He previously served as a board member

of the Pennsylvania Association of Student

Councils (PASC), which named him its 2020

PASC Principal of the Year. He also served

as the first assistant principal at-large board

Dr. Dan Beck

member of the Pennsylvania Principals

Association, when the position was

established in 2018. n

USCHS Student Attends FBINAA Youth Leadership Program

Upper St. Clair High School rising sophomore Abigail

Petras was selected for the FBI National Academy Associates

(FBINAA) Youth Leadership Program. Abby participated in an

eight-day advanced leadership training experience from June

19-27, 2025, at the FBI Academy, located on the Marine Corps

base in Quantico, Va.

Abby first heard about the FBI program from her father,

Paul Petras, a retired deputy chief of the Mt. Lebanon Police

Department. He attended the FBI National Academy in 2019.

“I was able to attend his graduation, listen to his stories and

speak to his other classmates about their experiences,” Abby said.

“This inspired me to want to attend the FBINAA Youth Leadership

Program when I was eligible.”

To be considered for the Youth Leadership Program, applicants

must be rising high school sophomores or juniors between 14-16

years old. Students must demonstrate high academic standards

and good citizenship. Sixty-two students are selected annually

from the United States and around the world to participate.

Inspired by her dad’s public service, Abby is committed to

making a positive impact on the world.

“I knew that I wanted to learn more about law enforcement,

ethics, leadership, helping others and making a difference in the

world,” Abby said. “My motivation came from my father. I grew

up in a law enforcement family, with my father serving as a Mt.

Lebanon police officer for 22 years and retiring as deputy chief.”

The Youth Leadership Program includes extensive classroom

study, physical fitness, guest lectures and leadership experiences.

The program focuses on issues facing today’s youth, including

fundamentals of leadership; fitness, nutrition and resiliency;

time management; values and choices; social media and internet

survival; managing change; ethical leadership; and more.

At USCHS, Abby has demonstrated high academic achievement,

dedication, leadership and has made a positive impact by

example. She was nominated to the USCHS Dean’s list. She competes

on the girls’ soccer team and was a member of the ensemble

for the school’s recent production of “Mary Poppins.” She participates

in the Partners in Health and Cooking with Care clubs.

In addition, Abby has a passion to serve others as she volunteers

at her church, The South Hills Bible Chapel, and with local

veterans. She is participating in the St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the

Blind Junior Medallion Program, working toward the St. Joan of

Arc Medallion for community service and volunteerism. n

Abby Petras — along with her parents Paul and Heather — attended a

ceremony on April 29, 2025, celebrating her acceptance to the

Youth Leadership Program.


Upper St. Clair

School District

Strategic Initiatives

As the pace of change accelerates, particularly with rapid

technological advances, Upper St. Clair School District

has transitioned from a static five-year strategic planning

model to a more dynamic, responsive approach. This shift

to Strategic Initiatives provides the flexibility and agility to

more effectively address both immediate priorities and longterm

goals.

Rapid developments that have major impacts on education,

such as Artificial Intelligence, may be unaccounted for within

traditional five-year plans. The District's new flexible model

fosters faster alignment to these urgent challenges, while

maintaining focus on broader, evolving needs.

Since implementing this model, the District has realized

significant improvements, including:

• Adjusted school start times to better align with research

• Revised school schedules

• Enhanced middle school expressive arts

• Updated performing arts and high school wellness

programs

Each change began as a year-long Strategic Initiative, laying

a foundation for continued progress in subsequent years.

While some initiatives result in quick, measurable outcomes

– such as shifting the high school start time to 8 a.m. – others

span multiple years. These long-term efforts progress through

clear annual goals, with adjustments made along the way

based on stakeholder input and evolving needs.

The following provides an update on four key multi-year

Strategic Initiatives from the 2024–25 school year:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Enhanced Data Usage

• Maximizing District Spaces

• Updating District Branding and Mission, Vision &

Values

Each team’s work has been shared at

School Board meetings throughout the

year and includes deliberate processes to

gather community feedback. To learn more

about Upper St. Clair School District's

Strategic Initiatives, scan the QR code.

Parent Survey:

At which building/level

do you think the District

should BEGIN training

children directly on

ethical and productive

use of AI tools?

(588 responses)

Artificial Intelligence

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape

every corner of society, Upper St. Clair is proactively

exploring how best to harness this powerful

technology to enhance teaching, learning and overall

organizational efficiency. The District’s AI Strategic

Initiative is focused on identifying best practices that

support both innovation and integrity in the classroom.

Progress in 2024–25

• Adopted board policy relating to AI.

• Provided extensive professional development to

equip staff with strategies and resources to enhance

student learning through AI while addressing

concerns regarding academic integrity.

• Collaborated with higher education institutions,

including Carnegie Mellon University, the

University of Pittsburgh and Lafayette College as

well as other K–12 partners.

• Developed and approved two high school electives

for AI and cyber security, which begin this fall.

• Surveyed stakeholder groups, including families,

students and staff.

Looking Ahead

NA/Not role of the district

Fort Couch

16.8%

USCHS 8.7%

Elementary

30.3%

Boyce MS

40.3%

• This summer, district teams will focus on

developing student training materials and

designing scheduling models to ensure AI

instruction is delivered effectively across grade

levels.

• A series of parent forums will be offered this fall.

• In 2026-27, expand AI-related course offerings to

middle school students.

Strategic Initiatives

2024-25 Update

Enhanced Data Usage

In today’s data-rich world, using

information effectively is key to

making thoughtful, strategic decisions.

The Enhanced Data Usage Strategic

Initiative focuses on maximizing the

power of data to inform decisions

in instruction, finance, personnel

and beyond – with an emphasis on

objectivity and clarity.


• Embedded stakeholder feedback

into decision-making through

structured input from staff,

students, families and community

members at key decision points.

• Adopted the Frontline Education

platform to enable administrators

to conduct comparative analyses

across areas such as finance,

human resources, demographics

and school performance.

• Trained administrators in data

analysis protocols and practices.

Looking Ahead

• Summer work will center on

integrating data protocols into

classroom practice, expanding

the use of data to support student

learning.

• New data tools and platforms

are being evaluated to better

synthesize internal performance

data with broader educational

trends.

• Data analysis training for K–12

teaching staff is planned for the

summer months and fall in-service.

• Fall forums will be offered that

provide parents guidance on how

to use Canvas and Focus to support

their children’s learning journey.

Maximizing District Spaces

As student needs evolve, so too must

the physical environments in which they

learn, create and compete. The Strategic

Initiative on Maximizing District Spaces

is centered on evaluating and enhancing

facilities to ensure they support a wellrounded

educational experience.


• Analyzed the high school’s flexibleuse

spaces, including library,

resource center and small and large

group instruction rooms.

• Conducted initial planning for

upgrades to performance spaces.

• Approved installation of new

stadium turf to maximize safety for

student-athletes.

• Authorized renovations to the high

school’s two gymnasiums – the first

major updates since 1999.

Looking Ahead

• Expanded planning for arts-related

spaces is set for this fall. Work may

begin as early as summer 2026.

• Discussion and planning will occur

regarding repurposing the former

high school swimming pool space.

• Additional review will continue

as part of the District’s long-term

capital project considerations.

Updating District Branding

and Mission, Vision & Values

As part of its ongoing Strategic

Initiative work, the Upper St. Clair

School District has focused on refining

its branding standards and revisiting

its foundational statements – mission,

vision, and shared values – to ensure

alignment with the district’s evolving

goals and identity.


• Developed a comprehensive

Brand Standards Guide, which

articulates clear expectations for

the use of district logos, fonts and

related visual elements.

• Resumed work that began in

2019 on reviewing the District’s

mission, vision and values

statements. This foundational

work was paused due to the

pandemic.

Looking Ahead

• An internal committee of Board

members and administrators will

be established to formally reiew

and evaluate the current mission,

vision and values.

• Following the internal review, the

District will launch a structured

process to collect input from a

broad range of stakeholders.

Replacement of the turf

began in June in order

to be ready for the fall

season. The field is

used by gym classes,

girls & boys soccer and

lacrosse, football, flag

football, cheerleading,

the marching band

as well as community

athletics.

Unity • Success • Character

USCHS Celebrates the Class of 2025

A little light rain was no match

for these Upper St. Clair Panthers. Upper

St. Clair High School celebrated the 347

members of the Class of 2025 during the

school’s 65th annual commencement

ceremonies on Thursday, June 5, 2025,

in the high school’s stadium.

Senior Class President Emma

Toosi kicked-off the event with

an inspirational message and

Student Council President Ryan

LaRocco delivered the student welcome.

Student speakers included Kriti Gupta,

Ishaan Sharma and Ben Seewald.

In his prepared remarks, which were

abbreviated due to the light rain, Dr.

Timothy Wagner, principal, praised the

Class of 2025 for its optimism.

“I have seen firsthand the collective

optimism of the Class of 2025 and how

it has amplified what you have accomplished,”

he said. “Those here today

supporting you have always understood

that you have limitless potential. Accessing

that potential begins with an

optimistic outlook. I hope that a spirit of

curiosity, lightheartedness and optimism

stays with you always.”

Dr. John Rozzo, superintendent of

schools, spoke about legacy, not as an

abstract idea or a plaque on wall; but

as something created and passed on

through everyday actions.

“In Upper St. Clair, legacy matters,”

he said. “It’s our shared responsibility,

not just to uphold it, but to build on it.”

He reminded the Class of 2025 that

legacy doesn’t stop at the school doors

or at the municipal borders.

“Our alumni are leaders in the

fields of medicine, education, business,

finance, the arts, technology, and

more — making an impact across the

country and around the world.” he said.

“That legacy is now yours to uphold and

evolve. It’s your turn to build upon it.

To continue showing the world what it

means to be an Upper St. Clair Panther.”

The Class of 2025 includes 22

valedictorians, including John Owen

Bell, Samuel James Berger, Ryan Oliver

Buonomo, Hannah Sophie Del, Ian

Abraham Dvorin, Anna Engelman,

Caleb William Guarino, Meredith

Reese Huzjak, Yelena Knobel, Ryan Louis

LaRocco, Kesahi Mathanachandran,

Benjamin Thomas Murtough, Grace Marie

Myers, Shriya Vandana Narasimhan,

Elise Olivia Parrish, Eli Gabriel Rankin,

Meredith Ann Rhodes, Anushka Sharma,

Ishaan Sharma, Thomas Walter Slowey,

Valentina Sobarzo Hernandez and

Sophia Grace Whitman.

This year’s graduating class

also includes 10 International

Baccalaureate Diploma candidates.

Those students include Eva Solenne

Dubreil, Anna Rose Engelman, Margaux

Gandon, Maya Guizzi, Sydney Alexis

Montgomery, Grace Marie Myers, Manav

Manish Patel, Erin Irene Shehab, Shreya

Sriram and Sydney Rose Waldron. n

Student Commencement Speakers

Valedictorians

International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates

USCHS 2025 Commencement Student Speakers’ Excerpts

As we move forward, whether to college,

careers, or whatever challenges life throws

our way, I hope we remember this: be present.

Show up for the people you care about. Support

your friends, your family, your community.

Even the smallest gesture of your time, your

encouragement, your presence, can make a

world of difference in someone’s life.

Emma Toosi, senior class president

You probably thought about the journey that

took you from that 5-year-old getting on the

bus for the first time to the person that sits here

today in your graduation regalia, and when

we got out of the car and closed that door, we

looked at the place where we learned, where

we laughed, where we built community, and

became better versions of ourselves.

Ryan LaRocco, student council president

As we step into the next chapter of our lives,

remember this: the world doesn’t need more

people following the same path — it needs

people brave enough to create their own. The

Class of 2025 isn’t just ready for the future;

we’re ready to shape it. No matter how much

you have achieved in high school… You will

achieve even more later on in life.

Kriti Gupta, senior speaker

Far too often, we are told that our future is a

blank sheet of paper. It’s true, but only to an

extent. Our time at USC has given us the best

template we could ask for, and the brightest

vision for what our futures can be. I would like

to thank the teachers, parents, and USC staff,

I know that we could not have done it without

every one of you. I can’t wait to see where our

races take each of us here tonight—5, 10,

or 20 years from now. Wherever it is, it’ll be

somewhere truly special.

Ishaan Sharma, senior speaker

We will all face our own elephants as we go

out into the world. We will want to achieve

accomplishments that are seemingly way too

large. And sometimes the outlook, like an

elephant, may seem a bit gray. But know that

if it feels too hard to do, it just means the first

step isn’t small enough. When we take one

small bite at a time we can do anything.

Ben Seewald, senior speaker n


Superintendent’s Speech

Dr. John Rozzo, Superintendent of Schools

Class of 2025 — what an honor and privilege it is to stand

before you tonight.

This ceremony marks more than the conclusion of your K–12

education. It is a celebration of over a decade of learning, growth,

perseverance… and achievement.

Too often, we find ourselves fixated on the future, rarely

pausing to be fully present. But tonight, I encourage you to do

just that. This may very well be the final time you are addressed

as a full class. Think about that. Look around you. Reflect on

the journey — on the friendships, challenges and triumphs that

have brought you here. The future will be waiting. But this moment

— right now — is one to savor. Because one day, you may

long to return to it.

Each August, as we prepare for a new school year, our entire

staff gathers in the high school theater to reset and refocus. This

past year, I spoke about a theme that feels especially relevant

tonight: Legacy.

Legacy isn’t just a plaque on the wall. It’s something living,

created and passed on through everyday actions. It’s shaped by

the values we hold, the choices we make and the impact we leave

behind.

Here in Upper St. Clair, legacy matters. It’s our shared responsibility

not just to preserve it, but to build on it. And Class of 2025,

your story is now a vital part of that legacy.

Each of you has walked a unique path. But together, you’ve

created something truly remarkable.

After nearly 25 years in this district, I can say with confidence

— this class is special.

You’ve shown what it means to lead with purpose, to care for

others and to lift one another up. You stood by a classmate battling

a serious illness. You formed one of the largest, loudest and

most spirited student sections in the region. You revived U-THON,

raising over $38,000 for Children’s Hospital. You’ve demonstrated

that unity is more than standing together — it’s showing up, stepping

up and making those around you better.

Your record of achievement speaks for itself: 61% of you are

members of the National Honor Society, the highest percentage in

district history. You sold out every performance of two consecutive

spring musicals — Newsies and Mary Poppins. You earned top

honors in music, as well as unprecedented recognition in robotics,

speech and debate, Future Business leaders of America and

esports. And as athletes, you rank among some of the finest ever

to wear the USC uniform.

But true success is measured not just by accolades; it’s measured

by the standard you set for others to follow. And that may well be

your greatest contribution. What distinguishes you most is your

character — your compassion, your service, your leadership —

rooted in empathy and action. Through MYP projects, service

clubs, Junior Mentors, Natural Helpers and countless initiatives,

you’ve made a difference. And more importantly, you’ve inspired

others to do the same.

Dr. John Rozzo

That mantra we embrace throughout our district — Unity.

Success. Character — you didn’t just hear it…you lived it.

The Upper St. Clair legacy extends far beyond this campus. Our

alumni are leaders in the fields of medicine, education, business,

finance, the arts, technology and more — making an impact across

the country and around the world. That legacy is now yours to

uphold and to evolve. It’s your turn to build upon it. To continue

showing the world what it means to be an Upper St. Clair Panther.

We will miss your energy in our classrooms; your voices and

talents on our stages; your spirit and talents on the fields, courts

and other athletic venues; and your leadership throughout our

schools. You are among the most accomplished, compassionate

and impressive students to ever walk the halls of Dear Old Upper

St. Clair. I have no doubt that in the years ahead, many of

your names will grace our Halls of Fame, not just for what you’ve

achieved, but for what you are still destined to do.

You’ve set a high bar. You’ve left big shoes to fill. And now

— it’s time to take the next step. Though your time as students

ends tonight, your connection to this district lasts forever. You’ve

made Upper St. Clair better. Take that mindset with you. Leave

every place, every task, every person better than you found them.

Because that’s exactly what you’ve done here for the past 13 years.

As I close, I return to where I began tonight: This may be the

last time you sit together as one class, surrounded by the people,

the memories and the experiences that shaped your time in USC.

This chapter is ending. And, yes, it brings gratitude, excitement

and perhaps even a little uncertainty. But above all, it brings hope.

Because now… it’s your time. Take all that you’ve learned, all that

you believe, all that you are and show the world what the Class

of 2025 has shown us all along.

In closing, I offer you one simple but meaningful piece of

advice: Stay connected. Stay connected to one another — to the

friends sitting beside you tonight, to the people who know your

story and believe in your future. These connections will guide

you, ground you and remind you: No matter where life takes you,

you’ll always be a part of this class and you’ll always be a part of

Upper St. Clair. n


Board Response

Dr. Danielle Wetzel, President, Upper St. Clair Board of School Directors

Dr. Danielle Wetzel

Good evening class of 2025

graduates, parents, grandparents, friends,

township commissioners, district administration,

faculty and staff…esteemed

guests.

A few weeks ago I had the privilege

of discussing with a few graduates what

might be on your minds this evening. And

what I learned is that while each of you

has a different story to share, you do have

something in common: you are facing

uncertainty about what lies ahead.

You are leaving the familiarity of routines,

structures, people you have seen

around you since you were children. For

some of you, since you were five years old

in kindergarten.

Whether they be expected or unexpected,

exhilarating or devastating,

transition points bring uncertainty. And

with uncertainty, we wonder what’s next.

When we wonder what’s next, we can

experience fear…so you know from your

psychology classes what that can mean.

For some of us, when we don’t know how

to respond to uncertainty, our autonomic

nervous system can take over and trigger

that reptilian brain space where all we can

do is react: fight, flight, freeze or fawn.

Tonight I share with you a story that

demonstrates strategies for moving past

that fear response, how we can respond

and act despite uncertainty.

The story is about my grandmother,

Myriam, when she was between the ages

of four to seven.

My Armenian grandmother was born

in Urfa, Turkey, and was a child in 1915,

the year the Ottoman Turkish Empire

declared that all Armenians be deported

or exterminated.

My great-grandparents sent their

daughter, my grandmother, away when

she was about four with another family

in the hopes that it would save her life.

And it did.

It must have been a hard life. She was

tattooed on her left hand with a mark

that identified her as a slave…and I can

remember by grandmother telling me that

she “didn’t like doing the chores.”

When the family who owned her decided

to relocate to a region deeper into

Turkey that removed any hope of rejoining

her Armenian parents, Myriam knew she

had to get away. Even at seven years old,

she feared the uncertainty of the future,

which could include ongoing enslavement

or eventually being sold into a harem.

So when the family was walking

through a small village, Myriam noticed

a group of Armenian orphans being shepherded

by a few helpers who happened to

be Christian missionaries.

At seven, my grandmother moved toward

the group of Armenian orphans and

joined them as they walked together. And,

later that night while stopping to rest, one

of the Sisters asked who she was and how

she got there. And she just said, “I don’t

know,” and shrugged her shoulders. And

the Sister and the other children just said,

“that’s okay.”

The children went to an orphanage

in Syria where young Myriam grew up in

community with other girls who spoke

her language and loved her. (She also met

my grandfather there, but that’s another

story.)

I realize that Myriam’s story is an

extreme one and that she was only seven

years old. Yet her story speaks truth about

how people thrive within uncertainty.

The first Truth, we covered earlier: You

will have uncertainty in life.

These uncertainties can emerge during

not just traumatic times like a war

but also during joyful, transitional times

too — like after a graduation.

Some of you are wondering if you can

be independent, or “What am I supposed

to do with the rest of my life?” Some are

wondering, “What if I don’t go back to

school after a gap year?” Or “Will I stay

with my boyfriend or girlfriend?” If we

allow fear to take over with those questions,

we will stop in our tracks.

The second Truth: When faced with

uncertainty, you can help yourself.

What did Myriam do? She assessed her

situation. She couldn’t change the war.

But she could change her own individual

circumstances.

She didn’t analyze it to death. She took

action. She did the next right thing.

Myriam looked for help. And I believe

she was able to look for help because she

learned early from her parents that as

God’s creation she deserved a life worth

living to the full. And like my grandmother,

you all have been surrounded by

parents, loved ones, friends, teachers who

have surrounded you with the message

that as God’s creation you deserve a life

worth living to the full.

What else do we learn from this story.

The Third and Final Truth: When

faced with uncertainty, and you aren’t

sure what will happen next — you can

help others.

The missionary Sisters had no idea

what was going to happen. They didn’t

have all that information. They just knew

that although life had become very uncertain,

they could help others.

We don’t need certainty to do the next

right thing. We don’t need certainty to be

helpful to other people.

I believe that this class is full of people

who desire more than anything else to

be helpers. And my understanding from

conversations with some of you is that

you can feel a little bit of guilt about how

much you have been given compared to

others.

Yes, you have been given much by

grace in that you have been able to attend

a school like Upper St. Clair. You’ve been

given access to privileges and blessings

that many have not.

And you have been blessing others.

This class has raised money to help pay for

medical bills for community members and

donations for Children’s Hospital, assisted

neighbors with shoveling snowy driveways,

babysat your neighbor’s energetic

toddlers, coached young kids, tutored

struggling peers and raised awareness to

reduce the stigma surrounding mental

illness.

In this life, you will face uncertainty.

When you are uncertain, you can seek

help. And when you are uncertain, you

can help others.

You have been practicing these skills

all your life, and I have no doubt you will

continue to do so.

So, congratulations, on behalf of the

school board. We are excited to hear from

you in years to come. Enjoy your evening,

and God bless you. n


Seniors Dazzle on the

Red Carpet

Upper St. Clair High School hosted

its annual Red Carpet event on Tuesday,

June 3, 2025, on the high school’s campus.

A record crowd of parents, friends and community

members cheered on our seniors

as they headed off to prom at the Carnegie

Museum of Natural History in Oakland.

Prom and the Red Carpet are organized by

the high school’s activities office, which is

led by Mrs. Brooke Tarcson.

Photos: Tina Vojtko


Service Trip Spreads Joy to Special Families

Twenty-three High School students volunteered for

three days in April at Give Kids the World Village, a nonprofit

resort in Central Florida that provides week-long, cost-free vacations

to children with critical illnesses and their families.

Student volunteers included Bea Boughner, Anna Bywalski,

Bella Carone, Milena Casciani, Lucy Gessel, Kriti Gupta, Idil

Guvenal, Jennifer Holderby, Caty Howard, Lylah Kateeb, Sam

Kerber, Mia Marino, Trevor McClintock-Comeaux, Grace Myers,

Claire Oliva, Madeleine Oliva, Maria Pavinich, Ian Putorti, Kyra

Ralyea, Yuna Shen, Lily Simons, Abby Stein and Ava Worner.

The annual trip is sponsored by the high school’s Interact Club,

a student service organization affiliated with Rotary International,

and is organized by high school staff Laura Carlino, Stephen

Torquato, Shannon Strayer and Char Howard.

Spanning 89 acres, Give Kids the World is a whimsical,

storybook-themed village where families can relax, have fun, and

make lasting memories together — free from the stress of medical

treatments and daily challenges. During their stay, the students

served food, cleaned dining facilities, operated accessible amusement

rides, delivered meals to villas and assisted at the Village’s

enchanted kids’ spa, where young guests can enjoy makeovers

and magical moments. n

Two Qualify for National Chemistry Olympiad

Two Upper St. Clair High School students advanced in

the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO). Tommy Slowey

and Jeffery Zhang completed the local qualifying exam on March

15, 2025. They were among 1000 high school students who moved

on to the three-part national exam, administered April 5-13.

Each of the three parts takes approximately two hours to

complete. Tommy completed the national exam on April 5 at John

Carroll University in Ohio, and Jeffery’s exam was administered

on April 12 at Carnegie Mellon University.

Sponsored by the American Chemical Society, the USNCO

program is a competition designed to stimulate and promote

achievement in high school chemistry.

The program has four tiers: Local Chemistry Olympiad Exams,

National Chemistry Olympiad Exams, Study Camp for the 20

top-scoring students from the national exam, and International

Chemistry Olympiad Exams for four students chosen based on

their performance at the Study Camp. n

Jeffery Zhang

Thomas Slowey


Santel Named All-Eastern First Chair; Seybert Presents Workshop

Carlee Santel placed first chair in the National

Association for Music Education (NAfME) All-Eastern Concert

Band Ensemble. The ensemble performed during the 2025 NAfME

Eastern Division Conference, April 24-27. in Hartford, Conn.

Carlee, a 2025 USCHS graduate, performed with more than

160 other student musicians from NAfME’s Eastern Region, which

includes Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts,

New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode

Island, Vermont as well as Washington, D.C. and Department of

Defense schools in Europe. Travis J. Cross, director of bands at

UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, served as guest conductor.

Carlee, who served as a marching band drum major during

the 2024-25 school year, received music instruction from Nick

Deutsch, high school band director. She plans to study economics

and music at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois

this fall.

The NAfME Eastern Division Conference also featured a workshop

presented by Dr. John Seybert, performing arts curriculum

leader. Titled “Ten Things Mentally Strong Music Teachers Do,”

the session provided new teachers and young professionals with

strategies for developing mental strength based on a three-pronged

approach — thoughts, behaviors and emotions.

“Music teachers face diverse challenges daily that require

multifaceted skills,” Seybert said. “Effective educators must successfully

negotiate ever-changing situations facing our students,

parents and educational community.”

The workshop reviewed 10 habits to better manage challenges

facing in school music programs — big or small. The strategies

are designed to help music educators embrace change, face their

fears and focus on happiness and success. n

Carlee Santel

Dr. John Seybert

Streams Students Present Culminating Projects

Streams Elementary fourth graders marked

International Baccalaureate (IB) Action Day with inspiring

presentations of their culminating Primary Years Program

(PYP) projects on May 29, 2025. As part of the IB Inquiry

Exhibition, a capstone of the PYP, students proudly shared

projects that reflected months of research, reflection and

meaningful action.

Each student chose to focus on a local environmental

organization — Hollow Oak Land Trust, Riverlife or the

Western Pennsylvania Conservancy — turning classroom

learning into purposeful action.

In preparation for their presentations, students engaged

in research that included in-class visits with representatives

from the three partner organizations.

“Students conducted their own research to gain an even

deeper understanding of the history of our organization and

scale of our efforts in the community,” a representative from

Hollow Oak Land Trust said. “Students then reached out

to Hollow Oak staff with additional questions, and worked

with a mentor from their school to design and implement

their beautifully executed final projects, which included

an action step where they fundraised and donated the

proceeds to us!”

These projects weren’t just about research — they were

about action. Whether organizing lemonade stands to

raise donations or planting trees to restore green spaces,

students demonstrated that you are never too young to

make a difference. n


Pizza and Taco Author Visits Baker & Streams

Earlier this year, Baker and Streams elementary schools

teamed up to host children’s author Stephen Shaskan. Shaskan

writes the highly entertaining Pizza and Taco series.

The author visit was coordinated by Baker and Streams librarians

Linda Connor and Stephanie Kellner, respectively. Shaskan

spent the morning at Streams and the afternoon at Baker.

Shaskan was a big hit with the elementary students as they

learned how their favorite characters are created.

“The students loved watching Stephen draw Pizza and Taco

and explain how he used computers to create the characters,”

Connor said. “They also had a great time singing and dancing to

‘The Best Friend Dance’.”

Shaskan has written and illustrated nearly 20 children’s books.

He holds a BFA in illustration from Rhode Island School of Design

and worked with kids for 20 years as an early childhood educator

and after-school and summer art teacher.

“Stephen Shaskan was a great choice because the Pizza and

Taco books are very popular in our schools,” Connor said. “The

books are engaging and funny, and the students were very interested

to know more about his inspiration and drawing process.”

The event was made possible through funds from the Streams

PTO and Baker PTA, as well as a collaboration with Avonworth

Elementary. n

Children’s author Stephen Shaskan informed and entertained Baker and Streams students during their Author’s Day event in March.

State Wrestling Champ

Upper St. Clair’s Maya Bhandari showcased

her wrestling prowess at the Pennsylvania

Junior Wrestling (PJW) State Championships,

winning five straight matches to capture the

8U 51-pounds Girls Division crown. The

tournament was held March 21-22, 2025, in

Harrisburg.

With this victory, Maya, a rising fourth grader

at Streams Elementary, becomes Upper St. Clair’s

first-ever female PJW State Champion.

Just a week before, Maya earned second

place in the Girls 7-8 50-pounds Division at

the Keystone State Championships, held March

15-16, 2025, at Penn State University’s Bryce

Jordan Center.

This marks Maya’s second season in wrestling,

and she has already demonstrated

remarkable growth. Last year, in her rookie

season, she impressed by placing second at

the PJW State Championships and third at the

I AM by Maya Bhandari

I am the white of beautiful snowflakes.

I am the sound of birds chirping.

I am the bold taste of mixed nuts.

I am the tough touch of a state

wrestling match.

I grow when I have confidence.

I am the happiness of winning in sports.

I am free like the dolphins in the waves.

I wonder if I will ever be first place in

state wrestling tournaments.

I wish to do anything I want to do.

I am COMMITTED.

I am Maya.

Keystone State Championships.

Above is a poem Maya wrote at school

last spring, after finishing second at states.


Never Miss a Game –

Order Your Panther Pass Online

Upper St. Clair Panther fans

can purchase their annual athletic

passes online. The Panther Pass

includes general admission entry

to all 2025-26 regular season home

athletic events, including football,

soccer, basketball, swimming,

wrestling, lacrosse and volleyball.

Admission to postseason WPIAL

and PIAA playoff games is not

included.

The cost is $50 per person.

Please allow 24-48 hours processing

time. Without the athletic pass,

individual admission to each home

game is $5.

Order online at go.uscsd.org/

pantherpass.

Physical athletic passes will not

be issued. Instead, Panther Pass

holders will receive digital admission

tickets via Eventbrite for each

game approximately one week before

the start of the athletic season.

Fall sports tickets will be distributed

in August. Winter and spring

sports tickets will be forwarded in

December and March, respectively.

Tickets will be assigned to the

name of the specific Panther Pass

holder. Families with multiple pass

holders have the option to send

tickets to multiple emails or to

receive all tickets and notifications

to one central email.

Directions for accessing your

Panther Pass tickets can be found

by click the QR code. n

2025 USCHS

Varsity Football Schedule

Date Opponent Location

8/22 Mt. Lebanon Away

8/29 Canon-McMillan Home (Senior Night)

9/5 Franklin Regional Away

9/12 Hampton Home (Youth Night)

9/19 McKeesport Home (USC Cares)

9/26 Peters Township Away

10-3 South Fayette Home (Homecoming)

10/10 Bethel Park Home (Halls of Fame)

10/17 Moon Away

10/24 Baldwin Away

The cost of Panther Pass is $50 per person

and can be ordered online at uscsd.org/

pantherpass. Without the athletic pass,

individual admission to each home game is

$5. Directions for accessing Panther Pass

tickets can be found at go.uscsd.org/

pantherpass

Varsity Scorecard

2024–2025

Fall Team W L T Achievement

Cross Country

(Boys)

Cross Country

(Girls)

Field Hockey 1 12 2

9 2 9th in WPIAL

8 3 13th in WPIAL

Football 11 1 Conference

Champs

Golf (Boys) 6 9 1

Golf (Girls) 10 4 7th in WPIAL

Soccer (Boys) 11 6 2 WPIAL Quarter

Finals

Soccer (Girls) 10 6 2 WPIAL Quarter

Finals

Tennis (Girls) 9 4 WPIAL Quarter

Finals

Volleyball (Girls) 14 5 WPIAL Quarter

Finals

Winter Team

Basketball

(Boys)

Basketball

(Girls)

Wrestling (Boys) 18 4

Wrestling (Girls) 11 5

Swimming

(Boys)

Swimming

(Girls)

26 3 Section Champs/

WPIAL Champs/

PIAA Semi Finals

23 7 WPIAL Champs/

PIAA Runner Up

7 3 Section Champs/

WPIAL Runner

Up/5th in PIAA

2 8

Rifle 6 8

Ice Hockey 9 9 2 PIHL Semi Finals

Spring Team

Baseball 13 8 WPIAL Playoffs

Softball 8 8

Tennis (Boys) 12 3 WPIAL Semi

Finals

Volleyball (Boys) 5 9 WPIAL Playoffs

Track (Girls) 5 1 WPIAL Playoffs

Track (Boys) 3 3

Lacrosse (Girls) 18 2 Section Champs/

WPIAL Semi

Finals

Lacrosse (Boys) 12 8 WPIAL Semi-

Finals

All games start at 7 p.m. on a Friday


Future Problem Solvers Advance to State Bowl

Three Upper St. Clair Future Problem Solving teams

qualified to compete at the 2025 State Bowl, which was held

in April 2025, in Camp Hill, Pa. USC’s top teams included two

in the Senior Division (grades 10-12) and one at the Middle

Division (grades 7-9).

• 12th Grade Team: Anna Englemann, Sydney Waldron, Jamie

Barrett and Frankie Dubreil

• 11th Grade Team: Sofia Alfredson Themudo, Anoushka

Barve, Sara Gillespie and Kaia Petrick

• 8th Grade Team: Seth Pedretti, Owen Maher, Will

Kreizenbeck and Nick Heitman

This was not the first time that these teams qualified for the

state competition. In fact, this marks the fourth year in row for

the 11th grade team, third year in a row for the 12th grade team

and the second time for the eighth-grade team from Fort Couch

Middle School.

To advance, teams had to place within the top seven in the

Middle Division and the top six in the Senior Division against

other schools from throughout Pennsylvania on the qualifying

problem of Agricultural Industry.

Future Problem Solving is a research-based program introduced

by Dr. E. Paul Torrance that consists of a six-step process

through which students address complex issues and develop

solutions. The program teaches problem-solving strategies, collaboration,

critical and creative thinking, decision-making skills

and effective communication.

The teams are led by gift education teachers Jason O’Roark

and Casey Teagarden, from Fort Couch Middle School and Upper

St. Clair High School, respectively. n

Tomczyk Competes at National Track Meet

Upper St. Clair rising senior Sadie Tomczyk showcased her speed on a national

stage at the New Balance Nationals — Indoor, held March 13-16, 2025, in Boston.

Tomczyk earned her spot at the prestigious meet by meeting the competition standards

in both the 60- and 200-meter dash events. Racing against some of the top high

school athletes in the country, she ended her indoor track season with a personal record

and a top 15 ranking in Pennsylvania.

“It was an amazing experience,” Tomczyk said. “It felt so cool to run on the same

track as the Olympians and the top high school athletes in the country.”

For Tomczyk, running is more than just competition — it’s an escape.

“I like running because it takes my mind off everything around me,” she said. “I can

focus on myself without outside stressors bothering me.” n


Thank You to Our 2024-25 Retirees

Back row: Jacqueline Geisler, Theresa Baker, Lee Altman, Dr. Judith Bulazo, Cheryl Leonard and Conan Lingler

Front row: Colleen Czekaj, Diane Mariano Rodi, Deborah Paga, Constantina Lardas, Helga Gilbert and Rebecca DeGregorio

Upper St. Clair School District celebrated the retirement of 26 faculty and staff members who have a combined 555

years of service to the school community. The district’s annual end-of-year staff retiree recognition event was held on June 9, 2025,

at the high school.

Congratulations and best wishes to our 2024-25 retirees:

• Lee Altman, Bus Driver — 21 years of service

• Theresa Baker, Bus Driver — 13 years of service

• Dr. Judith Bulazo, Director of Curriculum and Professional

Development — 35 years of service

• Ray Carson, Sr. Director of Operations & Administrative

Services — 6 years of service

• Tanya Chothani, High School Social Studies Teacher and DP

Coordinator — 26 years of service

• Colleen Czekaj, K-12 Special Education Curriculum Leader —

33 years of service

• Rebecca DeGregorio, Streams Resource Teacher — 23 years

of service

• Sandy Gallo, High School Secretary — 32 years of service

• Jacqueline Geisler, Boyce Teacher Aide — 22 years of service

• Helga Gilbert, Elementary Spanish Teacher — 27 years of

service

• Connie Gibson, High School Gifted Teacher — 22 years of

service

• Timothy Hartnett, High School Chemistry Teacher — 17 years

of service

• Constantina Lardas, High School Latin Teacher — 30 years

of service

• Cheryl Leonard, Fort Couch Communications Arts Teacher

— 25 years of service

• Conan Lingler, Eisenhower Elementary Teacher — 20 years

of service

• Kim Marmion, High School Custodian — 21 years of service

• Carole King, Teacher Aide — 11 years of service

• Robert Marshall, Bus Driver — 10 years of service

• Mike Nozum, Bus Driver — 18 years of service

• Deborah Paga, Bus Driver — 21 years of service

• Jace Palmer, Fort Couch School Counselor — 20 years of service

• Glenn Pawloski, Boyce Custodian — 13 years of service

• Diane Mariano Rodi, District Benefits Coordinator — 28 years

of service

• Lauren Snyder, Technology Aide — 19 years of service

• Kenneth Suchan, Boyce Head Custodian — 31 years of service

• Robert Williams, Bus Driver — 12 years of service n

Kumar Pens Winning Poem

Boyce Middle School sixth grader

Sailee Kumar was named the winner in the

Middle School Poetry category of the 40th

annual Waldman Arts & Writing Competition.

Kumar, along with six other category

winners, were honored at a ceremony on May

14, 2025, at Chatham University.

The Waldman Arts & Writing Competition,

hosted by the Holocaust Center of

Pittsburgh, invites middle and high school

students from the Pittsburgh region to submit

themed arts and writing pieces. This

year’s theme was “Local Legacies: Holocaust

Survivors of the Pittsburgh Region.”

“The competition was offered as an enrichment

opportunity to any Boyce sixth

grader,” said Sherri Garvey, Boyce gifted/

enrichment teacher. “Sailee wrote a poem

after researching the life of Holocaust survivor

Judah Samet.”

Students in grades six through 12 could

submit work in three categories: 2-D Art, 3-D

Art and Poetry/Graphic Prose. High school

students were also eligible to participate in

a fourth category — Essay/Response Paper.

The contest is open to students from schools

in Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio and West

Virginia. This year, 18 schools participated.

Notably, Upper St. Clair High School

alumnus and author of “The Perks of Being

a Wallflower,” Stephen Chbosky, won the

Waldman Award in 1986. n

Sailee Kumar


Middle School Track Welcomes First Adaptive Athlete

The Fort Couch Middle School

track team welcomed its first adaptive

athlete to the team last season. Holden

Schwamberger competed in his first

middle school track meet on March 25,

2025, at Bethel Park High School.

“We were very excited to have our first

ever middle school adaptive track athlete

competing at a meet,” Gordon Mathews,

assistant principal, said. “According to all

of our research, he may be the first ever in

a Pennsylvania middle school to compete,

at least in Western Pennsylvania.”

Holden, who uses a racing wheelchair,

competed in the 100- and 200-meter

events.

“There are set state standards for

middle school athletes in wheelchairs,

so Holden was trying to beat those standards

at the meets,” Jennifer Cramer,

Fort Couch teacher and assistant athletic

coordinator, said. “While he did not get to

race against anyone this year, we are hopeful that other adaptive

athletes will have the courage that Holden has to try something

new.”

Acquiring the racing wheelchair was made possible through

Rise Again, a nonprofit organization that helps establish adaptive

track and field programs in middle and high schools across

Pennsylvania. The organization was founded by the Brown family,

whose son Alex was one of the first high school adaptive track

athletes in Pennsylvania. A 2024 graduate of North Catholic High

School, Alex is now a member of the University of Alabama Para

Track & Field Team.

In addition to track, Holden plays on the Mighty Penguins sled

hockey team and Steel City Swish junior wheelchair basketball

team. Adjusting to the racing wheelchair was challenging, as

its positioning differs from a basketball wheelchair or a sled for

hockey. However, his biggest challenge was overcoming nerves.

“The hardest thing about learning to race is being the first

one to do it at Fort Couch,” Holden said. “You have to be brave

to be able to compete by yourself.”

Spring track is popular among Fort Couch students. Approximately

125 seventh and eighth graders participated, representing

nearly 20% of the student body.

“Holden was a very active eighth grade student at Fort Couch,

so trying track was a natural fit,” Cramer said. “Sports at Fort

Couch are a great way for every kid to be connected to the school.

We don’t cut anyone, and offer intramural options for kids that

are less competitive in many sports.”

For Holden’s parents, Beth Anne and Chris Schwamberger,

watching their son participate in a school sport has a rewarding

experience.

“He was able to practice nearly every day and compete much

more often, versus his adaptive sports where he has to drive an

hour just to get to practice once or twice a week and travel across

state lines just to compete,” Beth Anne said. “We love watching

him compete at all his sports, but the opportunity to be with his

school friends is really special.”

Athletics and activities offer an opportunity to build and nurture

connections between and among students, teachers and the

greater school community.

“Kids in middle school need to feel connected to someone so

by offering different sports programs they have a chance to meet

other kids and connect with them on a different level. Kids also get

a chance to connect with an adult, often a teacher, in a different

way,” Cramer said. “This is also true for our adaptive kids, and

track is the only middle school sport we offer that can include

adaptive athletes alongside able-bodied athletes.

The Schwambergers have been touched by the support Holden

has received.

“From coaches to teachers and staff members and teammates,

it has taken a lot of preparation and planning and extra learning

for Holden to be included in track this past year, and everyone has

been so excited to learn and help however they can,” Beth Anne

said. “This is why we love Upper St. Clair so much — our kid

has been welcomed and supported since day one, and it means

so much to us and to Holden.” n


USC Girls Make History with 2025 Flag Football Title

Claire Birmingham, TODAY Intern

This past spring, Upper St. Clair High School added a first

to its trophy case — the 2025 Girls’ Western Pennsylvania Flag

Football Championship. In the team’s second year of existence,

the girls pulled out a victory in May against two-time defending

champion Moon Area High School. The Panthers proved that with

a great team environment, a sense of enjoyment and a little bit of

hard work, the seemingly impossible suddenly becomes reality.

Upper St. Clair’s flag football team is coached by Ryan Huzjak,

vice president of sales and marketing for the Pittsburgh Steelers

and father of two players, 2025 graduate Meredith and rising

senior Mia.

The team competed each Sunday over a six-week season that

culminated in a 16-team playoff weekend with teams throughout

the Pittsburgh region. Coach Huzjak successfully campaigned to

have the playoffs and semifinals/finals on different days for the

2025 season, an improvement from the 2024 schedule, in

which USC played all postseason games on the same day.

On Saturday, May 17, the team captured its first two victories

against Obama Academy and the Ellis School, having

to fight back from being down 12-0 against Obama to win

21-20 in the final seconds. Those wins advanced USC

to the semifinals and championship games at Highmark

Stadium the next day, which were aired live on KDKA+.

Sunday, May 18, started with another amazing win from

the USC girls, beating the Shaler Area team and moving

on to face the two-time defending champions, Moon Area.

But just when you thought the girls would be stopped,

they pulled out an incredible 12-0 victory against Moon to

win the championship. Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick

and former quarterback Charlie Batch led the trophy and

medal presentation ceremony with the Pittsburgh skyline

as a backdrop to a perfect day.

This upcoming 2026 season will be the start of something

bigger and better for girls flag football across Pennsylvania.

In September 2024, the PIAA voted to officially sanction the sport

— making way for eventual WPIAL and PIAA championships.

Coach Huzjak believes it will have a positive impact on the

community.

“Football is such a big part of our culture every Sunday, especially

here in Pittsburgh with the Steelers,” he said. “Allowing girls

to have the opportunity to play and learn in a similar way that the

boys do is only fair and just the right thing to do.”

Flag football has done more than just add another trophy for

the trophy case. The camaraderie and connectedness have made

a difference for the team members.

“We all come from different friend groups and grades, but flag

football has brought us all together,” Meredith said. n

Outstanding Young Citizens

Nine Upper St. Clair High

School graduates were selected as

2025 Outstanding Young Citizens by

Trib Total Media. Richard Crawford,

Kriti Gupta, Annabelle Kirk, Kesahi

Mathanachandran, Grace Myers, Opal

Miller, Shriya Narasimhan, Zoe Roberts

and Darcy Vilkner were among the 107

students from schools throughout the

region honored in this year’s program.

The Outstanding Young Citizens

program recognizes high school juniors

and seniors who demonstrate

exemplary character and leadership,

dedication to community service and

outstanding academic achievement.

Students from 110 area public and

private high schools are eligible to be

nominated. n


Boyce Raises $3000 for Ronald McDonald House

The Boyce Middle School community

recently raised more than $3000 to

benefit the Ronald McDonald House. In

addition, the school collected single serve

snacks to fully restock the organization’s

pantry.

The effort was led by school counselors

Amy Antonio and Tonia Autieri. For many

of the fifth and sixth graders, this was their

first introduction to the Ronald McDonald

House and its mission.

“We dedicated time in Guidance class

to researching the organization and learning

about the incredible impact it has on

families each year,” Antonio said. “It was

wonderful to see how much more engaged

and invested the students became once

they understood how the funds would

directly benefit kids their own age in our

local community.”

The donations were raised through

Boyce’s annual Valentine Grams in

February. In exchange for a donation, students

and families could have a valentine

sent to anyone at Boyce. In addition, a

Stock the Pantry drive was held throughout

Random Acts of Kindness Week. Each of

the school’s eight academic teams were

asked to donate single serving sized trail

mix, chips, crackers and popcorn.

In appreciation of the students’ efforts,

the organization invited members of the

Outreach Community to tour its facility.

More than 20 fifth and sixth graders visited

the Ronald McDonald House.

“The trip to the Ronald McDonald

House was an unforgettable experience

for the students,” Antonio said. “The tour

gave us all a deeper understanding of the

organization, and it was incredibly rewarding

for the students to see firsthand where

their contributions are going.” n

U-THON Raises $38,467 for Children’s Hospital

Upper St. Clair High School students raised $38,467.42

through the all-night U-THON that began at 9 p.m. on Thursday,

March 27, 2025. U-THON was held in partnership with the Pitt

Dance Marathon benefitting the UPMC Children’s Hospital of

Pittsburgh.

Nearly 200 students participated in the eight-hour dance

marathon, which also included games, activities and lots of food.

The event was coordinated by Student Council with oversight

from Brooke Tarcson, head of student activities. Student leaders

included Ryan LaRocco, Ben Seewald, Emma Toosi, Anderson

Ploeger, Brady Bernard, Jack Yurcich, Ava Kasper, John Tripodes,

Carly Shontz and Nate Stohl.

This marked Upper St. Clair High School’s fourth THON event.

The first event, held in 2017, raised $17,531. The event went on

to raise $41,098 and $58,477 in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The

2025 U-THON is the school’s first since the pandemic and the

first for the school’s current student body.

The total raised far surpassed the goal of $25,000, which was

set in recognition of the Class of 2025.

“With this being the first U-THON in several years, we weren’t

sure what to expect,” Tarcson said. “We have been overwhelmed

by the generosity of our USC community.” n


Student Council Earns National Recognition

Upper St. Clair High School Student Council has

been recognized as a 2025 National Council of Excellence by the

National Association of Student Councils (NASC). The designation

recognizes Student Council’s exemplary record of leadership,

service and activities that improve the school and community.

This marks the fifth year that USCHS Student Council has earned

this national recognition.

More than 70 students in grades nine through 12 participate

in Student Council at USCHS. The students help plan numerous

school and community events and oversee the school’s 100+ clubs.

Major annual events include Homecoming Week, Winter Formal,

Prom, Rush (activities fair), Powder Puff football game, Halls of

Fame, Kindness Week, U-THON, Upper St. Clair’s Community

Day and other community service projects. In addition, Student

Council members serve as school ambassadors and tour guides

for Open House, alumni visits and other events.

Upper St. Clair is one of only 10 Pennsylvania high schools

recognized as 2025 National Council of Excellence Award

Winners. Other Allegheny County schools include Elizabeth

Forward High School, Montour High School and South Fayette

High School. Nationwide, 460 high schools earned this achievement.

n


Esports Captures Top FInishes

Upper St. Clair High School Esports nearly swept the

individual Super Smash Bros. Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports

Association (PIEA) Western Conference Finals, capturing four

of the top five finishes. Auri Tarabishy placed first, Jack Schalk

finished third, followed by Sam Donahey and Ricky Crawford in

fourth and fifth, respectively.

The Conference Finals were held on April 13, 2025, at Robert

Morris University. USC students competed against individual

Smash players from Belle Vernon, Albert Gallatin and McDowell

high schools.

In addition, the three-person Super Smash Bros. team of Auri,

Jack and Sam advanced to the finals in the Pennsylvania Scholastic

Esports League (PSEL). The USCHS team defeated the No. 1

ranked Cocalico team on April 23.

In its fifth year, USCHS Esports has had success in the past.

The Super Smash Bros. team reached the state semifinals and in

the individual competition, Auri placed second and Jack finished

11th in the state finals last year. n

Esports Wins State Title

The Esports Super Smash Bros. team captured the Pennsylvania

Scholastic Esports League (PSEL) spring state title on

May 7, 2025, at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.

Upper St. Clair swept the No. 3 seed Pocono West High School,

3-0, in a best-of-five series. Previously, the USCHS team defeated

USC Esports Super Smash Bros. team members — Sam Donahey, Jack

Schalk, Auri Tarabishy and adviser Monica Erwin.

the No. 1 ranked Cocalico team in the semifinals on April 23.

The USCHS Super Smash Bros. team earned an invitation to the

national PlayVS cup to compete against the top 64 teams in the

eastern half of the United States. Teams that win state and regional

finals are invited to compete. The multi-day, single elimination,

online tournament ran from May 19 to June 5. n

Sam Donahey, Jack Schalk, Auri Tarabishy and coach Monica Erwin

Esports Finishes Second in PA

The USCHS Esports Super Smash Bros. team finished

second in the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Association

(PIEA) Grand Finals. Team members include - Ricky Crawford,

Sam Donahey, Chance Miles, Jack Schalk and Auri Tarabishy.

The state tournament, which included 215 players from 36

schools, took place May 31 and June 1 at Mt. Aloysius College.

Individually, three Upper St. Clair players placed in the top

20 in Pennsylvania: Tarabishy, fifth place; Schalk, seventh place;

and Donahey, 18th.

Monica Erwin, science teacher, serves as the USCHS Esports

sponsor. n


USC Seniors Celebrate Decision Day

Upper St. Clair High

School seniors proudly celebrated

Decision Day on

Friday, May 9, 2025. Students

shared their post-graduation

plans by sporting t-shirts and

sweatshirts from colleges and

universities, both large and

small, from throughout the

country.

Students gathered to take

photos with classmates and

enjoyed donuts from the

Sinkers & Suds food truck. The

celebration was coordinated by

the student activities office, led

by Brooke Tarcson. n


STEAM

STEM

Fort Couch Robotics Team Excels at National Competition

The Revolution Robots, a FIRST LEGO

League (FLL) team from Fort Couch Middle

School, earned national recognition by placing

second in Robot Design and receiving the Robot

Design Finalist Award at the American Robotics

Open Championship (AROC), held May 17–18,

2025, at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City,

N.J.

This achievement marks a milestone as the first

time a competitive Upper St. Clair FLL team has

advanced to a national postseason event.

The team includes students Emily Chen,

Mahathi Devaki, Ritu Gupta, Aanya Jha, Praachi

Sreeram, Nimisha Simhadri and Nathan Suchta,

each contributing expertise in design, programming,

engineering and strategy. They were coached

by Rama Bala, Geetali Pandey and Archana Devaki.

“This team demonstrated remarkable dedication

and resilience as they prepared for the

national competition following their success at

the Pennsylvania state event,” Bala said. “The

team had fantastic presentations on its innovation

project, core values and outreach. We’re extremely

proud of their tenacity, ingenuity and commitment

to excellence.”

Adding to the day’s honors, team member Ritu

Gupta was invited to sing the national anthem at

the opening ceremony. n

Middle Schools Earn Top Spots in STEM Design Challenge

Teams from Fort Couch and Boyce middle schools

earned second and third place, respectively, at the STEM Design

Challenge held April 3, 2025, at the Commonwealth Charter

Academy in Homestead. Sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific

and organized by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, the competition

challenges students to design and build a structure using

K’Nex building materials.

Fort Couch’s team placed second in the sixth- through eighthgrade

division. The team included Claire Dietiker, Theodora

Lagonis and Sunny Liu. Boyce placed third in the fourth- through

fifth-grade division, with Seetha Muthiah, Juliet Whitman and

Harper Shively representing the school.

The students were coached by gifted/accelerated math teachers

Jason O’Roark, at Fort Couch, and Lydia Herman, at Boyce.

The STEM Design Challenge requires each team to develop a

blueprint and engineering journal detailing their structure and

the design process. During the competition, students must build

their structure from the blueprint within a two-hour time limit,

followed by a presentation to a panel of judges.

The 2025 Challenge: This year’s theme focused on industry,

innovation and infrastructure. Students were tasked with designing

a prototype that addresses a real-world issue related to

infrastructure, transportation or urban development. The goal

was to inspire innovative thinking about how to build or improve

cities, roads, bridges and systems to be more efficient, sustainable

and accessible. n

Teams from Boyce and Fort Couch Middle Schools placed second and third in the

STEM Design Challenge, sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific.


STEAM

STEM

High School Robotics Team Shines at the 2025 World Championship

Upper St. Clair High School’s robotics team

TeraBridges 18603 finished eighth and earned the First Place

Connect Award within its 64-team division at the 2025 FIRST

World Championship, held April 16–19, 2025, in Houston.

Terabridges was the only FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics team

from the region to qualify for the international event.

Team members are Jai Daniel, Ishaan Sharma, Harsh Mali,

Sidharth Nambiar, William Whitman, Luke An, Josh Beitler, Matt

Beitler, Rohan Inampudi, Ava Liu, Sam An, Felix Chen, Aaron

Jiang and Ashwin Vasudevan. The team is coached by Rich and

Sarah Beitler.

The Connect Award is a judged honor recognizing the team’s

exceptional outreach efforts and industry engagement. Over the

past eight months, the team collaborated with more than 17

STEM professionals across the Pittsburgh area, gaining valuable

insights, feedback on robot design and programming, and mentorship

opportunities.

The FIRST Championship featured 256 of the top FIRST Tech

Challenge teams worldwide, divided into four competitive divisions:

Edison, Franklin, Jemison and Ochoa. Each division hosted

64 teams, with the top alliances advancing to the final playoffs in

pursuit of the world championship title.

Competing in the Edison Division, TeraBridges finished eighth

out of 64 teams after 10 intense qualification matches over three

days. Based on its performance, the team earned the role of seventh

alliance captain in the Edison playoffs, selecting Elephant Tech

25218 from Shanghai, China, and MECH 17969 from Denver as

alliance partners. This accomplishment placed TeraBridges among

the top 32 teams out of more than 8,000 FTC teams worldwide.

“One of the most unforgettable parts of the championship was

connecting with teams from all over the world,” Josh Beitler, a

rising junior programmer on the team, said. “Right next to our

pit was a team from Libya and another from British Columbia,

Canada. During our qualification matches, we were allianced with

teams not just from across the U.S., but also from Kazakhstan,

Taipei, Romania, Canada and China.”

The opportunity to build international connections with other

robotics students made a lasting impression.

“Collaborating and strategizing with such a diverse group

pushed us to communicate in new ways,” Josh said. “In the end,

the friendships we formed and the plans we made to stay in touch

meant so much more than just the points we scored on the field.”

The team is grateful for the support and encouragement it

received throughout the process.

“On behalf of the TeraBridges team, we are thankful to our

coaches, mentors, donors, the Upper St. Clair School District,

our families and everyone who supported this journey,” Josh

said. “This season has been a remarkable testament to teamwork,

innovation and perseverance.” n


STEAM

Odyssey of the Mind Teams Advance to World Finals

STEM

Four Upper St. Clair teams advanced to the Odyssey

of the Mind World Finals, held May 21-24, 2025, at Michigan

State University. To qualify, the teams earned top marks at the

Pennsylvania Odyssey of the Mind 2025 State Finals in April.

The team from Boyce Middle School that solved the vehicle

problem, “The OM-Mazing Race,” earned second place in division

one. Team members include Cole Hirzel, Roman Duffy, Ben

Caesar, Ellie Finnegan, Emily Michalak, Quin Thorp and Julia

Ross. The team is coached by Brett Duffy and Nadine Michalak.

The team’s task was to design, build and drive an all-terrain

vehicle that transports riders on a race for a prize. In the performance,

the vehicle traveled to three different destinations,

overcame an obstacle, and learned that the prize for finishing the

race was not as exciting as the Odyssey they took along the way.

Teams from Fort Couch Middle School and Boyce Middle

School competed in the classics problem, “Classics...

Cooking with Books.” In this problem, teams created a performance

about an original chef character who prepared a meal

inspired by a classic piece of literature. The performance also

included a team-created kitchen gadget and a dinner party with

a character from the team’s chosen literature.

The Fort Couch team earned first place in division two, with

a performance inspired by “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory.”

Team members include Ava Fingal, Sophia Lee, Caroline Fingal,

Drew Holzer, Keira Mycoff, Rehana Rai and Lydia Calkins. Josh

Mycoff and Doug Calkins serve as coaches.

The Boyce team earned second place in division two with a

performance inspired by “The Hobbit.” Team members include

Penelope Collins, Kendall Zielinski, Avery Metcalf, Elliot Sams,

Marcelina Enos and Lula Griffin. The team is coached by Sarah

Sams and Jacob Collins.

The team from Upper St. Clair High School that solved the

technical problem, “Mech-Animal Sidekick,” earned second

place in division three. Thea Sheuerle, Daphne Collins, Ashwin

Vasudevan and Parker Sams performed in the competition. Nigel

Bailey, Kayden Dunkin and Sophiya Gorban are also members of

this team. This team is coached by Sarah Sams and Jacob Collins.

The team was required to create a robotic animal designed

to cheer up characters in the performance by performing tricks.

The performance also included live music, a toy for the robot

and a trainer character, which the team portrayed as a dinosaur.

At the State Finals, 138 teams from across Pennsylvania

competed by division in one of five chosen problems: vehicle,

technical, classics, balsa and performance. In total, 11 Upper St.

Clair teams competed at the state-level competition. n


STEAM

Two Teams Qualify for National STEM Competition

STEM

Two USCHS teams qualified to compete at the National

TEAMS Competition, held June 27-July 1, 2025, in Nashville,

Tennessee.

The team of Molly Biedrzycki, Augusta Bottonari, Sophia

Henderson and Harshini Sivakumar placed fifth out of 77 teams

in Pennsylvania. Also earning a qualifying score was the team of

Ryan Popp, Ryan Hyatt, Jacob Higgs and Ben Sewald.

TEAMS is a science, technology, engineering and mathematics

(STEM) competition. Focused on a new theme each year, TEAMS

challenges teams of students to collaboratively solve real-world

engineering issues by applying their STEM knowledge in practical

and creative ways.

Teams of two to four students compete at the state-level in

February and March at their school.

This one-day, three-part competition

includes:

• Design/Build: Teams design and

build a solution to an engineering challenge.

• Multiple Choice: Teams use math

and science skills to solve 40 real-world

engineering challenges within 60 minutes.

• Essay: Teams research and write an

in-depth essay submitted electronically

prior to their competition day.

This year’s theme was designing

for extreme weather. Casey Teagarden,

gifted education teacher, provided oversight.

“Teams had to write an essay as the project engineers building

a hotel on a Caribbean island to withstand severe weather

conditions,” Teagarden said. “And the design and build portion

required students to build and test a prototype stilt building made

to withstand hurricane force winds. Students had 90 minutes to

complete this task using materials such as index cards, drinking

straws and paper clips.”

Teams whose combined overall state-level score is among the

top nationally are eligible to compete at the National TEAMS

Competitions, which are held in conjunction with the National

Technology Student Association Conference. n


Gymnast Shines at National

Championships

Eighth grade gymnast Avery Irvin placed fourth in the nation

in vault — finishing 23rd all around at the 2025 USA Gymnastics

Men’s and Women’s Development Program National Championships,

held May 9-11, 2025, in Salt Lake City.

To qualify for nationals, Avery placed in the top seven at the USA

Gymnastics Region 7 competition, which includes all of Pennsylvania,

Virginia, New Jersey, Delaware West Virginia and Maryland.

Avery, a student at Fort Couch Middle School, is a member of the

Xquisite competitive gymnastics team that trains at X-Cel Gymnastics

in Cranberry Township. A gymnast since age 3, she practices more

than 20 hours each week. Her favorite event is the uneven bars. n

Fort Couch Earns Top Honors at Music Festival

Upper St. Clair music students earned Superior

ratings, the highest possible distinction, at the High Note Music

Festival, held May 16, 2025, at Duquesne University.

Participating ensembles included the choir and cast of “Into

the Woods,” directed by Thomas Hunsberger; the Symphonic

Wind and Honors Jazz ensembles, directed by John Seybert and

Jacob Schuster; and the orchestra, directed by Karen Chisholm.

The festival provided students with an opportunity to perform

for a panel of professional adjudicators, all of whom are experienced

secondary and postsecondary music educators.

“These Superior ratings are a testament to the students’ dedication

and collaboration, as well as the unwavering commitment

of the Fort Couch music faculty to fostering excellence in music

education,” Seybert said. “This achievement also highlights the

integral role of the arts in supporting the district’s broader educational

mission.”

Following their performances, students participated in interactive

clinics with adjudicators to further develop their individual

and ensemble skills. n

USC Honored as Best Community for Music Education

Upper St. Clair School District has been honored with

the 2025 Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation

for the 10th consecutive year. Sponsored by the NAMM

Foundation, the program recognizes and celebrates districts that

demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access

and education to all students.

Upper St. Clair is one of only 13 school districts in Allegheny

County, 130 in Pennsylvania and 935 in the nation to earn the

distinction in 2025.

“It is an honor to be recognized for the 10th consecutive year

as one of the Best Communities for Music Education,” Dr. Amy

Pfender, assistant superintendent, said. “Music education plays

a vital role in our students’ academic and personal development.

It fosters creativity, collaboration and critical thinking — skills

that extend far beyond the classroom. This honor is a testament

to the dedication of our educators, students, families and community

who value and support the arts as an essential part of a

well-rounded education.”

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Upper St.

Clair officials answered detailed questions about funding, graduation

requirements, music class participation, instruction time,

facilities, support for the music program and community musicmaking

programs. n


Streams’ Children for Children Effort Raises $2,343

For more than two decades, Streams Elementary has

shown what it truly means when children help children. In its 21st

year, the school’s Children for Children event raised $2343.29 to

benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

The 2025 theme, “Love Can Lift You Up,” celebrated the power

of compassion and action. This year’s effort was coordinated by

teachers Lauren Bogus, Jen Graceffo and Katie McIntyre.

“Through our beloved Children for Children event, we

continue to teach students that small acts of kindness can make

a big difference,” Mrs. Bogus said.

Each year, the school selects a different charitable organization

— the only prerequisite is that the organization must help

children.

“Students have been learning about the mission of Ronald

McDonald House Charities, an incredible organization that

strengthens families and provides comfort when children need

medical care most,” Bogus said. “From creating welcome cards to

collecting donations and assembling welcome bags, our students

are lifting others up, one kind gesture at a time.”

Students conducted a raffle during the school’s S.T.A.R. Night

open house on May 8. Families could purchase raffle tickets

for the chance to win several student-made items and teacher

experiences. In addition, throughout the week of May 5–9,

students and staff participated in theme days and a coin drive.

With the slogan, “A Simple Act Can Make a Difference,” the

Streams’ Children for Children community service initiative was

first launched in the 2004–05 school year. The goal was simple:

expose students to other children in the world who are in need,

and show them how they can make a difference.

Since 2005, the Children for Children initiative has raised more

than $105,000 to benefit local, regional, national and international

organizations. Charities have included Connecting Children

with Champions, UNICEF Tsunami Relief, Katrina School Fund,

Zesch Competes at Special Olympics

Summer Games

Victoria Zesch, a rising senior

at Upper St. Clair High School, competed

in the 2025 Special Olympics Pennsylvania

Summer Games, from June 5–7, at Penn

State University. This marked Victoria’s

second consecutive year competing in the

statewide event.

Representing Special Olympics

Allegheny County, Victoria earned her spot

at the Summer Games with strong performances

as a member of the South Hills

Splash swim team. She captured two gold

medals — in the 25-yard backstroke and

25-yard butterfly — and a silver medal in

the 50-yard freestyle at both the Allegheny

County Swim Tournament and the regional

Special Olympics Games.

The Summer Games are Special

Olympics Pennsylvania’s largest competition,

drawing more than 2000 athletes and

750 coaches from across the state. Events

include basketball, equestrian, golf, gymnastics,

softball, swimming and tennis.

More than 1000 volunteers support the

athletes during the three-day event.

The South Hills Splash is sponsored

by USCHS and supported by volunteers

and coaches from the school’s swim and

dive team, who provide mentorship and

encouragement to athletes like Victoria.

In addition to her Special Olympics

success, Victoria is a dedicated member of

the USC swim and dive team. She credits

her mentor, Clare Larsen, for playing a key

role in her growth as an athlete through

coaching and support. n

CORE Organ, Dominican Republic Outreach Program, Heifer

International, National Military Family Association’s Operation

Purple, Casey’s Clubhouse, Jameson’s Army, Grady’s All Stars,

The Education Partnership, Global Links, Our Clubhouse, South

Hills Interfaith Movement, Beverly’s Birthdays, Best Buddies, the

Greater Pittsburgh Area Food Bank, Canine Partners for Life,

the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and, this year, the Ronald

McDonald House Charities.n

Streams students lifted up others through the annual Children for Children

effort — raising more than $2300 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Victoria Zesch and her mentor, Clare Larsen,

celebrate her swimming accomplishments.


Fort Couch students

publish poems

Fort Couch Middle School rising eighth graders Sofia

Khaydarova and Logan Dunkin recently had their poems selected

for publication in the Poetic Power Spring Poetry Contest.

Sofia’s poem, “Time Goes By,” and Logan’s poem, “Angel and

the Devil (Angel’s Perspective),” will be published in a student

poetry anthology. Less than 50% of all contest entries are accepted

for publication.

Time Goes By

Sofia Khaydarova

Time, the thief of all we know,

Leaves us wondering,

“Where did it go?”

Time is slipping through our hands.

I know it’s hard to understand

That one day all the things we cherish,

Time will steal and they will perish.

I hope you realize when you read this,

That time, the thief of all we know,

Will leave us with nothing else but woe.

One day everything will vanish,

Every poem, song, or drawing

Will be gone without our knowing.


The future with no me and you,

Leaves me wondering if this is true,

That the world is nothing more

Than you and me, and him and her.


Was all along our biggest foe.

Angel and the Devil

(Angel’s Perspective)

Logan Dunkin

Evil, ruthless, cunning,

mean these are traits of thee.

Though their actions

cause distraught, they carry

on without a thought.

Envious, narcissistic, and filled with greed,

Everything seems lost when it is their word I heed.

Their actions leave me without hope, even if I’m next

to a lifesaving rope.

But maybe, just maybe, there is a way to turn...

A positive lifestyle is all I yearn.

Once I free myself from being caged,

My mental health can be saved.

As I open my eyes to the possibility,

Positive thoughts are set free.

This lifeboat, the savior, it’s so close to clasp.

Yes, the light, I see it. It’s what I grasp.

As I leave this dreadful place and get free,

Positive thoughts flow like a stream.

As my shackles are unlocked,

A new era is clocked.

For now, amends are in store.

The bad side was vanquished once more.

A positive outcome is no longer stout,

That was my perspective, Angel out.

Dvorin Places First at FBLA

Ian Dvorin (USCHS 2025)

earned first place in Spreadsheet

Applications at the 2025

Future Business Leaders of

America (FBLA) State Leadership

Conference, held April 6-8, 2025,

in Hershey, Pa. With this top fin-

ish, Dvorin qualified to compete at the FBLA

National Leadership Conference.

Joining Dvorin at the national competition

were Nithya Kommineni, Leela Kulkarni and

Olivia Mamakos, who placed second in Introduction

to Business Presentation, as well as Anand Jani,who

placed fourth in Organizational Leadership. All

qualified to represent USCHS at the National

Leadership Conference, June 29–July 2 in Anaheim, Calif.

This year, 33 Upper St. Clair High School students competed

in 26 events at the state conference. Patrick Manion,

social studies teacher, serves as the school’s FBLA adviser.

The FBLA State Leadership Conference featured more

than 50 individual and team events across a wide range of

business-related subjects, including broadcast journalism,

business management, coding and programming, data analysis,

entrepreneurship, graphic design, hospitality and event

management, and marketing.

The top four finishers in each event qualified for nationals. n


Speech & Debate: Six-Time State Champs

The Upper St. Clair High School Speech & Debate Team won its sixth

Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) State Championship and its

fourth in a row. The event was held March 21-22, 2025, at Bloomsburg University.

The team is coached by high school teacher Ben Edwards with assistance from

Logan Reynolds.

“This senior class won states each year in their high school careers,” Edwards

said. “Forty-eight students competed for Upper St. Clair, which is the most competitors

any school has brought to the state tournament.”

Ishaan Sharma and Harsh Mali won the Parliamentary Debate State

Championship, marking Upper St. Clair’s sixth title in this event since it was introduced

in 2011. Their overall ballot count was 16-4.

“It was Ishaan’s second state title, and he became one of only a handful of competitors

in PHSSL history to win championships in two different events,” Edwards

said. “In 2024, Ishaan won in Extemporaneous Speaking.”

Isabel Vilensky and Aaryan Kumar won the Public Forum Debate State

Championship. Their overall ballot count was 23-3.

Advancing to Debate Semifinals (Top 4)

• Izzy Lin & Zahra Khan in Policy Debate

• Arth Italiya & Josh Anand in Parliamentary Debate

• Noshi Dabas in Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Advancing to State Speech Finals (Top 6)

• Anoushka Barve in Persuasive Speaking (Second)

• Prachi Chetlur in Commentary (Third)

• Ali Hanna in Prose (Third)

• Shreya Sriram in Poetry (Fourth)

• Divya Udhayakumar in Persuasive Speaking (Fifth)

• Robert Elliot & Harrison Barker in News Broadcasting (Fifth)

• Finn Stafford in Program Oral Interpretation (Fifth)

• Hansika Yanamadala in Prose (Sixth)

Advancing to Debate Quarterfinals (Top 8)

• Mana Barimani & Aadhi Bharath in Public Forum Debate

• Advancing to Debate Octofinals (Top 16)

• Krishna Sathya Vagheeswar & Nikhil Chandran in Public Forum Debate

• Pritika Gupta in Lincoln-Douglas Debate

• Nikhita Thakuria in Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Advancing to Speech Semifinals/Congress Supersession (Top 12)

• Rohan Mehta in Extemporaneous Speaking

• Tommy Slowey in Extemporaneous Speaking

• Vincent Watson in Informative Speaking

• Anushka Sharma in Poetry

• Manav Patel in Senate

• Daniyal Badaruddin in Senate

Upper St. Clair

School District

Calendar

2025–2026

Aug. 20 Grades 1–12 First Day of

School

Aug. 22 Kindergarten First Day of

School

Sept. 1 No School–Labor Day

Oct. 24 No School–Teacher

In-service

Nov. 3–4 No School–Teacher In-

Service

Nov. 26–28 No School–Thanksgiving

Recess

Dec. 23 Half Day/Early Dismissal

Dec. 24–31 No School–Winter Recess

Jan. 1–2 No School–Winter Recess

Jan. 19 No School–Teacher

In-service

Feb. 16 No School–Teacher

In-service

Mar. 30–31 No School–Spring Recess

April 1–3 No School–Spring Recess

April 6 No School–Teacher

In-service

May 19 No School–Teacher

In-service

May 25 No School–Memorial Day

June 4 High School

Commencement

June 5 Last Day of School for

Students–Half Day/

Early Dismissal


Parent Teacher Council (PTC)

John A. Biedrzycki, III, Esq.,

President

Children: Max, USCHS

2025; Molly, USCHS 2027;

Goldendoodle Penny Lane Pongo

Occupation: Attorney/Dad

Hobbies: Travel, working on

old and new cars, flying planes,

gardening

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

High School PTSO

Irina Konstantinovskaya,

President

Spouse: Valeriy Vilensky

Children: Isabel, Emma

Occupation: Stay-at-home

mom

Hobbies: Music, cooking, dog

walking


Lake George, N.Y.

Fort Couch PTSO

Meredith Irwin, President

Spouse: Brian Irwin

Children: Mason, Sabrina,

Benjamin

Occupation: Director of

Marketing and Sales at

Instrumentation Industries Inc.;

Owner of Meredith Irwin Piano

Studio

Hobbies: Tennis, running,

bowling, reading


Mexico

Boyce PTO

Lindsey O’Donnell, President

Spouse: Paul O’Donnell

Children: James and Maggie

Occupation: Senior director,

digital marketing at UPMC

Hobbies: Reading and hanging

out at hockey rinks


Anywhere with my family

Pawprints...

PTC ... a USC Parent Teacher Council Feature

TODAY is pleased to introduce the 2025-26 presidents of the District’s Parent Teacher Council and its six school parent organizations.

These dedicated individuals volunteer their time and talents to enrich our school culture and, most importantly, the lives of

our students.

John A. Biedrzyck

Irina Konstantinovskaya

Meredith Irwin

Lindsey O’Donnell

Halley Casey

Julijana Kosovec

Amanda Clark

Tanny Carrera

Baker PTA

Halley Casey, President

Spouse: Bill Casey

Children: Warren

Occupation: Program Coordinator

Hobbies: Outdoor adventures of all kinds;

volunteering; bringing creative ideas to life;

play date organizer; aspiring pickleball player


Torch Lake, Mich. (clear water, peaceful setting,

amazing)

Eisenhower PTO

Julijana Kosovec, President

Spouse: David Kosovec

Children: Darko, Sofija, Goran, Roko

Occupation: Stay-at-home parent

Hobbies: DIY home renovation, cooking and

reading


Croatia

Streams PTO

Amanda Clark, Co-President

Spouse: Jared Tannenbaum

Children: Nikola and Isaac

Occupation: CPA

Hobbies: Reading and spending time

with family


New York City

Streams PTO

Tanny Carrera, Co-President

Spouse: Miguel Carrera

Children: Bash

Occupation: Global Transformation & Strategy

Leader

Hobbies: Photography and traveling with my

family


Beach


exceptional

kitchen & bath • cabinetry • decorative plumbing • hardware • tile

splashshowrooms.com • employee owned • serving Pittsburgh area since 1956

Township

Commissioners

Township Administration

Daniel R. Paoly

President

At Large

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-862-5995

2025*

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

Pamela L. Enck

Vice President

Ward 2

Day 412-831-9000

2025*

Dante R. Plutko Jr.

Ward 1

Ed Poljak

Director of Information

Technology

George Kostelich Jr.

Director of Public Works

Christian Gmiter

Director of Library

Chris Biswick

Director of Recreation &

Leisure Services

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 412-389-5187

2027*

Jason H. Graves

Ward 3

Public

Safety

Day 412-831-9000

2027*

Todd D. Burlingame

Ward 4

Day 412-831-9000

2025*

Ronald J. Pardini

Ward 5

Day 412-831-9000

Evening 724-941-1199

2027*

Richard I. Thomas

At Large

Day 412-831-9000

2027*

*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.

Michael Lindenfelser

Police Lieutenant

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

Chris Biswick.......................................... 6150

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

USC Cable.................................412-831-1030

Emergency–

Police, Fire, EMS.................................... 911

Check out the Township’s website

twpusc.org

Follow the Township of

Upper St. Clair on social

media for the latest news

and announcements.

2025 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

April 7, 2025

Approximately 28 people attended.

Recognition

• Commissioner Enck presented a Proclamation to

Mr. Chris Gmiter, Library Director, in recognition of

National Library Week, April 6–12, 2025.

• Commissioner Thomas presented Certificates of

Achievement to several members of the Upper St. Clair

High School Swim Team for their wins at the Western

Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL)

Championships.

The Board

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC25-0001 — St. Clair

Country Club Paddle Courts — Unified Conditional Use

Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to

the Board of Commissioners’ Regular meeting on May 5,

2025.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1775 Re. Approval of the

Reappointment of Steven Gibbs and Appointments

of Timothy Quinn and Adam Sheldon to the Zoning

Hearing Board.

• Approved the following Appointments to Various Boards/

Commissions of the Township of Upper St. Clair:

Building and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board:

Firas Abdelahad

Library Board: Beth DeWalt

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board:Saralynne DelRaso

Approval of Contracts

• Tri-Star Ford........................................... $176,195.00

Two (2) 2025 Ford F600 Super Duty 4x4 Cab & Chassis

Trucks

One (1) 2025 Ford F550 Super Duty 4x4 Cab & Chassis

May 5, 2025


Recognitions

• Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation to Keith

Morse, Chief of EMS Operations for Tri-Community

South Emergency Medical Services recognizing May 18-

24, 2025, as National Emergency Medical Services Week

in Upper St. Clair with the theme “EMS Week: We Care.

For Everyone.”

• Commissioner Enck presented a Proclamation

recognizing the Upper St. Clair High School Speech &

Debate Team for its win for the sixth time and the fourth

year in a row at the Pennsylvania High School Speech

League Championship.

• Commissioner Graves presented a Certificate of

Achievement to the Upper St. Clair high School Boys

Basketball team for their second win in a row at the

Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League

(WPIAL) Championships.

• Commissioner Burlingame presented a Certificate

of Achievement to the Upper St. Clair High School

Girls Basketball team for their win at the Western

Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL)

Championships.

The Board

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC25-0001 — St. Clair


Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval to

the Board of Commissioners’ Regular meeting on June 2,

2025.

• Continued Public Hearing Re. PLC25-0002 —

Pittsburgh Baseball Lab — Nonresidential _

Continued Conditional Use Approval to the Board of

Commissioners’ Regular meeting on June 2, 2025.


KONE, Inc.

Emergency Repair to Library Elevator........... $67,540.00

JB Mechanical, Inc.

Municipal Building Heating & Cooling

Upgrades.................................................... $61,750.00

JB Mechanical, Inc.

Route 19 Fire Hall Boiler Replacements......... $93,750.00

General Recreation, Inc.

Morton Fields Complex Playground Structure.... $355,066.00

Tri-Star Ford

One (1) 2025 Ford Explorer Staff Vehicle...... $51,343.00

Stephenson Equipment, Inc.

Two (2) 9’ Aluminum Dump Body Upfits with stainless

steel tailgate spreaders, salt & Liquid dispensing systems

and 9’ snowplows (for two (2) previously approved Ford

F600 Cab & Chassis)................................ $143,934.50

June 2, 2025


Recognitions

• Commissioner Pardini presented a Proclamation to

Abigail Petras for being selected to attend the annual FBI

Youth Leadership Program.

The Board

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC25-0002 — Pittsburgh

Baseball Lab — Nonresidential — Continued

Conditional Use Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 3-25 Re. PLC25-0002 — Pittsburgh

Baseball Lab — Nonresidential — Continued

Conditional Use Approval.

• Closed Public Hearing Re. PLC25-0001 — St. Clair


Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Adopted Bill No. 4-25 Re. PLC25-0001 — St. Clair


Preliminary and Final Land Development Approval.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1776 to Establish the Public

Hearing Date of Monday, July 7, 2025, for the Adoption

of the 2025-2035 Comprehensive Plan.

• Adopted Resolution No. 1777 Authorizing the Transfer

of the Brush Run Intermunicipal Trunk Sewer Line.


of the McLaughlin Run Intermunicipal Trunk Sewer

Line.


of the Painters Run Intermunicipal Trunk Sewer Line.


Hill International

One (1) 2026 International HV507 SFA Cab &

Chassis..........................................................$121,175.00

Stephenson Equipment, Inc.

One (1) 10’6” Aluminum Dump Body Upfit with statinless

steel tailgate salt spreader, salt and liquid dispensing

system and 10’ snowplow (for 2026 International Cab &

Chassis)........................................................$107,597.00

R&B Mechanical, Inc.

Community & Recreation Center Rooftop Unit #8

Replacements.............................................. $106,900.00

Directory of

Important Numbers

Police/Fire/Ambulance

Emergency

412-833-7500

Township Offices are open 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Monday–Friday

Administration/Township Manager

412-831-9000, ext. 2160

Community Development

412-831-9000, ext. 5010

Finance/Tax – 412-831-9000, ext. 2180

Recreation – 412-221-1099

Public Works – 412-831-9000, ext. 2710

Public Works Hotline

(Emergency After Hours) 412-833-7500

Police Administration – 412-833-1113

Animal Control

412-833-7500

Tri-Community South EMS

412-831-3710

Volunteer Fire Department

(Fire Station) 412-835-0660

Library – 412-835-5540

Frequently Called Numbers

USC Cable (Public Access Television)

412-831-1030

District Judge Ronald Arnoni

412-835-1661

League Of Women Voters

412-261-4284

Post Office – 1-800-275-8777

School District – 412-833-1600

South West Communities Chamber of

Commerce – 412-221-4100

Tennis Administration – 412-831-7556

Three-Hole Golf Course

412-831-7556

Utilities & Services

Xfinity

Sales, Service, and Billing

1-800-266-2278

Columbia Gas Company

724-416-6300

People’s Natural Gas Company

412-395-3050

First Energy – 1-888-544-4877

PA American Water Company

1-800-565-7292

Verizon – 1-800-VERIZON (837-4966)


Community Day ’25

’24

Community Day 2025 was one

to remember! May 17 turned out to be a

day of sunshine and good times. Activities

started bright and early with the return of

the Community Fun Run and Walk. The

opening ceremony continued the morning

festivities, with the help of a few guest

speakers, before everyone’s attention turned

to McLaughlin Run Road.

The parade was a blast, and as always,

as there were plenty of happy faces and

lots of candy. Once the booths opened, the

crowd moved toward the McLaughlin Run

Activity Center and Municipal Park where

the Upper St. Clair Library made it possible

for kids to “make a mess.” Between the

tasty food and everyone running around,

the two cutest competitions in town took

place — Toddler Trot and Hottest Dog

Contest. Speaking of cute, the petting

zoo was back this year and the animals

had lots of company all day. Elsewhere,

Gilfillan Farm and the 1830 Log House saw

a steady stream of visitors all afternoon. A

Community Day tradition, the day’s activities

wrapped up with the Community

Foundation’s Duck Race, which always attracts

a big crowd.

With Community Day 2025 behind us,

Township and School District staff are already

gearing up for next year’s event. Don’t

make any other plans for May 16, 2026,

because Upper St. Clair’s biggest community

celebration will be back and even better!

For more information or to volunteer in

2026, contact the high school student

activities office or the USC Recreation

Department. We’ll see everyone next year

and thank you for making this year’s celebration

great! n


Saddle Up St. Clair

2025 Community Day

Bake-Off Winners

Grades K–2

Favorite Book: Charlotte Osborne

Favorite Movie: Aiden Grubb

Baker’s Choice: Dario Daley

Grades 3–5

Favorite Book: Caitlyn Foil

Favorite Movie: Adrienne Richey

Baker’s Choice: Mila and Emmy Geis

Grades 6–8

Favorite Movie: Maria Zambri

Baker’s Choice: Ivan Yanov and Logan Dunkin

Best in Show: Vyan Patkar

Sponsored by the

Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Rotary, Breakfast Club.

Many

Thanks!

Special

Thanks!

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year’s Community Day. You all helped make

this year’s celebration special, and it could not have happened without you. School District staff,

the student activities office at the high school and Township staff worked over many months

to plan the event, and the dozens of community organizations, volunteers and local businesses

made Community Day 2025 possible by entertaining, sponsoring and executing the many moving

parts. One special shoutout goes to the Township’s Public Works Department — the event

couldn’t happen without the help of the employees. A lot of work goes on before, during and

after the event to make sure everything goes smoothly and most importantly, safely.

• Marine Corps League South Hills Pittsburgh Detachment 726

• Colussy Chevrolet

• Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair

• Bonnie Loya and Jett, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, The Preferred Realty

• Howard Hanna Real Estate

• The Dog Stop

• USC-Bethel Park Rotary, Breakfast Club


Chris Biswick Named Director of Recreation and Leisure Services

Chris Biswick has been

named the new director of recreation

and leisure services for the Township

of Upper St. Clair. Biswick has been

with USC for 16 years and began his

new duties this May. Former director

Paul Besterman will maintain a key

role in the Recreation Department

in a senior strategic advisor position.

Biswick has worked in the

Recreation Department as the aquatics

supervisor for the past 16 years and

has been a stalwart at the Community

& Recreation Center since it opened.

“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity

to grow within the department

and truly get to know all the amazing

amenities our township has to offer,”

said Biswick. “What’s made the journey

even more rewarding is working

with such a fantastic team — people

who are passionate, supportive and

committed to serving the community.

That experience has prepared me to

lead with confidence, collaboration

and a deep understanding of what

makes our programs and facilities so

special.”

Although his role and title will

change, his commitment to the Upper

St. Clair community will not.

“Being in this role means collaborating

with an exceptional team

committed to offering the best programs

and events to our residents

and C&RC members,” said Biswick.

“Together, we all take great pride in

delivering outstanding services that

enrich the community and create

meaningful experiences for individuals

and families alike.”

Biswick graduated from

Pennsylvania Western University –

Clarion with a bachelor’s degree in

liberal studies with a concentration

in education. n

Upper St. Clair Police Chief Jon Wharton Retires

After seven years as the Upper St. Clair

police chief, Jon Wharton retired from his position

this June. Wharton spent his entire career in

law enforcement at the Township with a total of 33

and a half years of service. He was hired at 21 and

worked his way up through the ranks before being

promoted to chief.

“As a public servant, I was honored to give back

to the community where I grew up and that gave so

much to me and my family,” said Wharton. “Continuing

to live in Upper St. Clair, my wife Lauren,

also a public servant, and I were able to instill in our

sons the value of community; all three also serve

the public.”

Township Manager Matthew Serakowski had

nothing but praise for Wharton and thanked him

for his service to this community.

“It has been an honor to work directly with Jon

over the years as he rose from sergeant all the way

to chief,” said Serakowski. “Anyone who has ever

engaged with Jon knows about his dedication to his

profession and overall commitment to this community.

He leaves the Police Department in a very

strong position after navigating its recent renovation

and expansion and preparing the next generation of

leadership to follow him. I will personally miss my

daily engagements with Jon on all Township related

matters.” n


David Kutschbach — Reflections on 50 years of Public Service

Wayne Herrod

Dave Kutschbach and George Kostelich

David Kutschbach’s career with the Township began

on March 3, 1975, when he joined the Public Works Department as a

laborer. Fast-forward 50 years and he is still at Public Works, but now as

the superintendent of projects.

At first, Dave’s jobs included general ground maintenance, snow removal

and sanitary and storm sewer maintenance. In 1994, he was promoted

to projects inspector and got the opportunity to inspect new sanitary and

storm sewer systems along with overseeing new development projects. At

that time, he managed the Township’s annual sanitary and storm sewer

rehabilitation programs. In addition, Dave obtained his building inspector

certification and assisted on various Township building inspections.

Sixteen years ago, in 2009, Dave was named superintendent of projects,

a role he is still in today. The position includes rotating on-call responsibilities

for public safety and emergency response handling various police

calls, sewer backups, fallen trees and snow removal. Every winter, Dave

is up at first snowfall getting the snow removal crews on the road and

keeping residents safe.

The Township’s annual sewer operation and maintenance program,

rehabilitation projects and review of sanitary lateral video inspections

for real estate transactions are still his responsibilities. Plus, it’s his job to

respond to resident stormwater and sewer concerns.

As a longtime resident, I can personally vouch for Dave’s dedication

to his job. Several years ago, the neighbors who live below my house and

below the commercial properties on Washington Road were getting water

runoff from the hill, which ended up washing out their lawn and filling

their basement with water. They reached out to me not knowing what to

do, so I contacted Dave late the same afternoon.

Not only did he stop by on his way home, but he brought a crew.

They determined that a drainage basin above them was filled with leaves

and tree debris, and he was back out the very next morning to correct the

problem. This is just one of countless examples of Dave’s work ethic and

loyalty to the Township and its residents.

During Dave’s years at the Township, he has worked with five different

township managers and, in his words, more dedicated colleagues than he

could count. Former building inspector and current township manager

Matthew Serakowski even helped him earn his Building Official and Code

Administrator (BOCA) certification. In addition, Dave earned a bachelor’s

degree and a master’s degree in public administration (MPA) from the

University of Pittsburgh. You can’t say he’s not qualified.

Over the years, David has witnessed and contributed to many of

the Township’s major developments — the expansion of single family

households in neighborhoods, the redevelopment of the Sienna property

(formerly Consol Energy), the rebuilding of the Route 19 fire station,

construction of the C&RC at Boyce Mayview Park, the original and ongoing

work at the Morton Fields Complex and much more. Among all

the projects, the building of Veterans Memorial Park, located next to the

municipal building, stands out as particularly meaningful to Dave.

Although Dave has had a hand in most of the Township’s major developments

and accomplishments in the past 50 years, there were plenty

of challenges and headaches he had to deal with too. Some of the major

ones were the historic 1993 snowstorm (with over 20 inches of snow),

Hurricane Ivan in 2005 and the devastating 2018 storm and flooding. He

was also the on-call superintendent following the tragic fire on McMillan

Road.

Dave’s connection to Upper St. Clair runs deep. His parents moved to

Mitchell Drive in 1951 (English Village Plan), so he has lived here most of

his life, attending Eisenhower, Fort Couch and graduating from USCHS

in 1969. Dave and his wife, Karen, returned to the area in 1998. Together,

they share a blended family that includes three sons, a stepdaughter and

six grandchildren.

Despite everything Dave does for the Township, he also has some

interesting hobbies outside of work. His true passion is martial arts — he

trained in Aikido (a graceful and effective form of self-defense) in his 30s.

In 2008, Dave shifted his focus to Hung Gar Kung Fu (a complete system

of Chinese martial arts known for powerful, no nonsense fighting and

health benefits) and Muay Thai (a sport that uses eight limbs in combat

to strike and grapple). To add to his workouts and to keep him moving,

you may even see Dave walking along Fort Couch Road with his rucksack

(a weighted backpack).

George Kostelich, the director of public works for the Township, has

worked with Dave for a long time, and has nothing but good things to

say about him.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Dave for the last 41 years.

There are a many people who have made a positive impression on me in

my career here at USC, and Dave is certainly one of them,” said Kostelich.

“Dave’s continued dedication to the service of our residents is unmatched

and it continues every day with a positive attitude. I am proud to have

stood shoulder to shoulder with such a quality person and friend during

our time at USC.”

Matt Serakowski, township manager since 2008, also spoke highly

of Dave’s career.

“It has been an honor to work with Dave over my three decades with

the Township,” said Serakowski. “When I first started out of college, we

worked in the field together on many land development projects and even

attended Pitt graduate school together for a time. He was already a seasoned

veteran, and I gained a tremendous amount of knowledge from him. Dave

is a dedicated, hardworking and exemplary employee. His commitment to

the community is one of the reasons the Township is the jewel it is today.”

You would think that after all this time, Dave would be ready to relax,

but he isn’t ready to retire quite yet. When he does though, it will be a major

loss to this Township. You don’t replace 50 years of experience, dedication

and excellence very easily.

It’s not easy to summarize what 50 years of working for the Township

means to someone, but Dave was able to put it succinctly.

“As I reflect on my five decades of service I am filled with gratitude,”

said Kutschbach. “I have had a fulfilling and impactful career and when I

do leave, I’ll have no regrets — just a deep sense of pride in having served

the community I’ve always called home.” n


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.


USC Recreation and

Upper St. Clair

United Senior Citizens

The Upper St. Clair United Senior

Citizens know how to have a good time!

Whether it’s for Community Day, Memorial Day

or birthdays, the seniors love to celebrate with

their peers and community. Visitors are always

welcome, especially adorable falcons and service

dogs! Speaking of visiting, a few seniors recently

traveled to Jamestown, N.Y., and USCVFD’s

Ted Hale stopped by the MAC to talk about fire

safety. Despite being busy, the seniors always

leave time to celebrate birthdays — this time it

was Nancy, Maureen and Angela’s. Good luck

keeping this group unoccupied!

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 activities

begin at 10 a.m., with members holding a brief

business meeting at noon, followed by lunch. In

addition, there are various outings throughout

the year. n

David Frederick introduced his

new falcon to everyone.

Community Day was a blast!

Seniors met Craig’s service dog Foxy

while learning about at-risk veterans.

A few seniors took a trip to

Jamestown.

The USCHS cast of Mary Poppins

came to give a sneak preview of the

production.

Everyone celebrated

Angela’s 85th birthday…

then Nancy’s 85th

birthday…

and Maureen’s 82nd

birthday!

The seniors grilled for

Memorial Day.

The USCVFD visited

and gave a presentation

on fire safety.

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. Applications

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.

For additional information about any older adult programming, contact the community programs department at 412-221-1099.


Leisure Services

Senior Spotlight: Larry Doughty

Larry Doughty grew up in Aliquippa, Pa., before

attending Aliquippa High School, Community College

of Beaver and Mercyhurst College of Erie with majors

in law enforcement and criminal justice. Following

school, he returned to Aliquippa, where he began

a career at J&L Steel Company working as a

millwright helper, machine operator and railroad

brakeman. While working in those different

positions, he continued to serve his community

by responding to fires as a volunteer with the

Hopewell Fire Department.

Subsequently, he was employed by a contract

management company and accepted positions as

director of housekeeping, maintenance and security

at hospitals in Kentucky, Ohio, and Oil City, Pa. While

living in Oil City, he volunteered with the Boy Scouts of

America as an assistant cub master and as a den leader for

Webelos Scouts.

After moving to Franklin, Pa., he became assistant scout master and

ran the Scouts Medical Explorer’s Post and encouraged the scouts to

consider a future in healthcare professions. He trained new scout leaders

and was elected leader to the Order of the Arrow, a National Honor

Society that recognizes scouts who exemplify the Scout Oath and Law

in their daily lives.

In 1994, he became a foreman at the Richard A. Mallory

Plastic Plant where he trained employees, repaired equipment,

loaded/unloaded trucks and operated a forklift.

Eventually, in 2005, he became a facilities director at

Christ United Methodist Church in Bethel Park

with housekeeping, maintenance and automotive

duties and held that position for 12 years.

Currently, Larry holds a forklift license, a

class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

and is certified as a pest control operator. His

additional past certificates include operating a

radiological monitor and responding to, handling

and transporting hazardous materials. He

is also qualified as an Emergency First Responder.

Larry has resided in Upper St. Clair for 28 years

and has been a member of the USC Senior Citizens

Program for seven years. In that time, he has held offices as

director and second vice president.

In his free time, his hobbies and interests include collecting antique

cars, photography and riding motorcycles.

He has been happily married to his wife, Angela, for the past 20 years.

Larry and Angela have two sons, Scott and Randy, two grandchildren, Ben

and Nick, plus one great-grandson, Grayson. n

General Election — Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025

Polls Open 7 a.m.–8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, is Voter Registration Deadline Date.

(Date subject to change pending Pennsylvania legislative action.)

If you have questions regarding the election, registration, or absentee ballots, call the Allegheny County Elections

Department at 412-350-4500 or visit twpusc.org. The Township library and the post office have voter registration forms.

Check the Township website to verify the location of the polling place closer to the General Election date.

Ward District Polling Place

1 1 Township Library Multipurpose Room–Lower Level–

McLaughlin Run Road

1 2 Baker Elementary School–Gymnasium–Morton Road

1 3 Fort Couch Middle School–Gymnasium

Miranda Drive entrance





2 2 Westminster Presbyterian Church–Washington Road





Ward District Polling Place

3 1 McLaughlin Run Activity Center–McLaughlin Run Road

3 2 St. Catherine Labouré church basement (rear),

(formerly known as St. Louise DeMarillac)–McMurray Road

3 3 McLaughlin Run Activity Center–McLaughlin Run Road

4 1 Baker Elementary School–Gymnasium–Morton Road

4 2 Boyce Middle School–Gymnasium–Boyce Road



5 1 Wesley Spectrum Services–Gymnasium–Johnston Road

5 2 Wesley Spectrum Services–Gymnasium–Johnston Road



From the

Director’s

Desk

Chris Gmiter

In today’s fast-paced, digitally

connected world, it is easy to

overlook the importance of a physical

place where people of all ages,

interests and backgrounds can come

together to learn, connect and enjoy

activities. At the Upper St. Clair

Township Library, we are proud to

be more than just a place to check

out books — we are a true gathering

place for the community.

Whether you are attending a

storytime with your toddler, researching

local history, crafting with friends

or simply enjoying a quiet corner

with a good book, our library is here

to support you. We have intentionally

shaped our services and spaces

around the idea that libraries are

about people as much as they are

about information.

A Space for Everyone

In recent years, we have made

thoughtful updates to our physical

space to make it more open, welcoming,

comfortable and flexible.

As I have covered in this space

previously, the library features five study

rooms, a large meeting room, a flex

space and an outdoor deck, all on the

third floor. These functional areas were

installed or refurbished in 2022 and

2023. Let’s not forget our comfortable

lounge/seating areas located throughout

the library’s public service space on the

second floor. Our first floor multi-purpose

room hosts everything from book clubs

and meetings to adult programs and

crafting workshops.

Programming That Builds Community

Each week we offer a wide range of

programs that reflect the diverse interests

of our patrons. Families come in

for storytimes, teens gather for cooking

demos and make their own foods while

learning technique, adults attend educational

lectures and craft sessions, watch a

movie or enjoy a lively round of Bunco or

Mahjongg. Having several programs happening

simultaneously or on the same

day is common for us.

Our programs create meaningful moments

between people who might not

otherwise cross paths. We often hear

from patrons that they met a new friend

or reconnected with an old acquaintance

or neighbor while visiting the library —

and that is the magic of a library-centered

community. One of my favorite stories

stems from a gathering for the card game

“500” during the library’s Card Club

Program. Two couples were seated at a

card table. After exchanging pleasantries,

they discovered that they had been living

on the same street for years and hadn’t

realized it! There is no place that brings

people together quite like the public

library.

A Place for You

The Upper St. Clair Township Library

is your library. We are committed to

being a welcoming and vibrant space for

all to enjoy. The Township and its Board

of Commissioners recognize the library’s

vital role in civic life with a proclamation

for National Library Week each year

— a reminder of the value we all place

on shared knowledge, open access and

dedication to our residents and users.

As library director, I invite you to stop

by — whether you’re a long-time patron

or a first-time visitor. Come for a program,

stay for the atmosphere and leave

feeling more connected to your community.

n

Try-It Tuesday

Try It Tuesday with local artist Judé Ernest is a

regular monthly USC Library in-person adult art

program. Limited to 15 registered participants. If you

are unable to attend, cancel your reservation ahead of

time. A $5 donation is suggested.

Macrame Leaf

Tuesday, Sept. 9

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month, participants will learn how to macramé

a hanging leaf decoration using dyed cotton macramé

rope, knots, a comb and stiffener.

Decoupage Slate

Tuesday, Oct. 14

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month, participants will learn how to Prepare,

layout and decoupage paper elements and other materials

on to a recycled piece of slate tile.

Crepe Paper Flower

Tuesday, Nov. 11

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month, participants will get to choose their own

colorful crepe paper and learn how to cut, sculpt and

assemble a gorgeous 3D paper flower.

3D Paper Star

Tuesday, Dec. 9

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

This month, participants using recycled book pages,

newsprint and magazine paper participants will learn

how to cut, fold and ensemble traditional hanging

paper star ornament.


Adult Programs

New Program: Junk Journaling Club

Sept. 6; Oct. 4; Nov. 1; Dec. 6

1:30–3:30 p.m.

Join us on the first Saturday of every

month for a fun and creative Junk Journal

class, where you can explore, create and

share the joy of crafting with others. We’ll

provide a variety of materials like stickers,

stamps, ribbons, old greeting cards, patterned

paper, washi tape and more to help

spark your imagination.

All you need to bring is your own blank

journal or notebook. Feel free to include

any personal supplies or photos you’d like

to incorporate into your journal spreads.

Whether you’re new to junk journaling or

a seasoned pro, this is a great opportunity

to connect with a creative community and

leave with a unique, handcrafted journal.

Bring $5 to cover the cost of supplies.

We can’t wait to see what you create!

Introduction to Appalachia

Wednesday, Sept. 3

6:30–7:30 p.m.

The first class will delve into the unique

aspects of the Appalachian people, the

distinctiveness of Appalachia and the

rich tapestry of Appalachian culture. We

will also explore the origins and modern

interpretations of the term “hillbilly” to

provide a comprehensive understanding

of the region. This event takes place on

the third floor of the library.

Extractive Industries in Appalachia

Wednesday, Sept. 10

6:30–7:30 p.m.

This class will examine the Appalachian

region’s rich resources, how their extraction

has impacted the land and its people

both negatively and positively, and what

the future of industry looks like in Appalachia.

This event takes place on the third

floor of the library.

The Food of Appalachia

Wednesday, Sept. 17

6:30–7:30 p.m.

This class offers a practical understanding

of the foodways that bind Appalachia.

You’ll learn about traditional Appalachian

foods, gardening, processing and cooking

methods, gaining valuable insights into the

region’s culinary heritage. This event takes

place on the third floor of the library.

Health and Healing in Appalachia

Wednesday, Sept. 24

6:30–7:30 p.m.

This class is about the past, present and

future of health in Appalachia. We’ll discuss

the traditional Appalachian approach

to health, the current health crises facing

the region and the measures being taken

to address them. This event takes place on

the third floor of the library.

Owl Prowl at South Park

Wednesday, Oct. 15

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join us for an exciting hike into the

fascinating world of owls! This approximately

two-mile hike, led by experienced

Allegheny Park Rangers, will feature moderate

elevation changes and offer insights

into these majestic birds and their habitats.

Bring water and wear sturdy, closed-toe

shoes. Flashlights will be provided for our

evening adventure. Meet at the South Park

Ice Rink Parking Lot.

Colorful Leaves: Acrylic Painting

Workshop with Laurie Sweeney

Wednesday, Oct. 22

6–8 p.m.

Join Laurie Sweeney, an experienced

instructor with 25 years of teaching, for

a fun and relaxing evening of painting.

In this class, you’ll learn various acrylic

techniques, including paint layering, dot

embellishments and brushwork, as you

create your own “Colorful Leaves” masterpiece.

Whether you’re a beginner or an

experienced painter, Laurie will guide you

through each step. No prior experience

needed — just bring your creativity and

enjoy the process!

You Wrote a Book... Now What? Part 1

Wednesday, Nov. 5

6–7:30 p.m.

Unleash your imagination and hone

your storytelling skills at our upcoming

creative writing workshop hosted by local

award-winning author Mary Walsh!

Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith

or just beginning to explore the world of

writing, this free workshop offers something

for everyone. Join us for an inspiring

session filled with engaging prompts,

constructive feedback and supportive camaraderie.

Discover new techniques, refine

your prose and embark on a journey of

self-expression alongside fellow enthusiasts.

Reserve your spot today and let your

imagination soar! This event takes place

on the third floor of the library.

You Wrote a Book... Now What? Part 2

Wednesday, Nov. 12

6–7:30 p.m.

Want to dive deeper into self-publishing

your novel? Award-winning author

Mary Walsh will take you into a hands-on

workshop to make your manuscript ready

to sell to the public. You’ll learn how to set

up your book on Amazon, IngramSpark

and Draft2Digital. If you can, bring a

laptop to connect to the Wi-Fi. This event

takes place on the third floor of the library.

Chernobyl: The Aftermath of the

World’s Greatest Nuclear Disaster

Wednesday, Nov. 19

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Join the Upper St. Clair Township

Library as we welcome bestselling author

Michael Haritan. He will discuss his book

“Chernobyl: Aftermath of the World’s

Greatest Nuclear Disaster,” offering an indepth

look at the 1986 disaster. Through

a detailed timeline and personal photographs,

he shares not only the events of the

catastrophe but also the lives of the people

who lived and worked in the area, as well

as those affected by the tragedy. Haritan’s

book provides a thoughtful look at the lasting

impact of Chernobyl more than thirty

years later. This event takes place on the

third floor of the library.

For a full list of our adult programs, visit

the library’s website: twpusc.org/library.

Check the library’s

website and social

media channels for

adult program

locations.


Kids & Teens

From preschoolers to high schoolers, “books before” programs

encourage literacy and library use across all ages. And we will reward

you for your good library habits. Use the QR code to sign up!


Library Resources

Sign up for a library card and get instant access to eBooks, books, music, DVDs

and other resources at any library in Allegheny County.

Visit twpusc.org/library.


USC Community Development

Know the Rules

According to the Township of Upper St. Clair

Codes:

• Lawns need to be maintained at a maximum

height of six inches from April through

October.

• Vehicles without current inspection or registration

must be stored in a completely enclosed

structure.

• Waste receptacles and recycling containers

should be placed at the curb line after 6 p.m.

the day before collection, with removal before

midnight the day of collection.

• Boats, trailers, campers and other types of recreational

vehicles must be stored in completely

enclosed structures.

• Garage sale signs are permitted, provided the

following regulations are met:

» Signs are located only on the lot where the

sale takes place.

» Signs are displayed only on the day of the

sale.

» Signs do not exceed nine square feet

combined.

» Signs are set back a minimum of 10 feet from

any side lot line.

» Signs are to be placed outside the Township

right-of-way. Typically, the right-of-way

extends a minimum of 13 feet back from

the edge of the street or curb.

» Signs may not obstruct sidewalks.

• No structure may be placed within the

Township right-of-way, except for a driveway

or mailbox. A structure is any object having a

stationary location on or in lots. The Township

right-of-way typically extends back 13 feet

from the edge of the road.

• A newspaper tube is permitted, provided it

is attached to the existing mailbox post. The

newspaper tube may not be supported by a

separate structure, such as a post or column.

• Realtor open house signs are permitted, provided

the following regulations are met:

» One tent- or easel-type sign, not to exceed

four square feet.

» Sign permitted to be displayed Saturday and

Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

» Sign must be located a minimum of 13 feet

back from the edge of the street or curb.

» With permission of property owner, open

house signs may be placed on a lot other

than the one for sale with the same restrictions

above.

» No open house signs are allowed on

Township-owned property.

• Stormwater management permits are required

as of Jan. 7, 2019, for all residential small projects

proposing additional earth disturbance

Questions? Call 412-831-9000, ext. 5010, or visit twpusc.org.

or impervious area greater than 400 square

feet. These requirements apply to both new

development and redevelopment. Stormwater

management permits must be obtained before

the submission of a building permit.

• Building permits are required for most construction

and remodeling projects. Typical

projects that require a building permit include,

but are not limited to, sheds, garages, swimming

pools, decks, additions, retaining walls,

driveway pillars and patio enclosures. Some

projects, such as patios and driveways, require

only zoning approval. In all cases, when a

building permit or zoning approval is required,

a land survey of the property must be submitted

as a part of the permit application process.

The Township may have a copy of the property

survey on file.

• Any tree that is dead or diseased is considered

a hazardous tree and needs to be removed in

a safe manner in order to prevent potentially

fatal accidents from occuring.

Check the Township website at twpusc.org for

types of projects requiring a permit and the

application process. Questions concerning

permit requirements can also be directed to

the Community Development Department at

412-831-9000, extension 5010.

CPR Classes

Be prepared for the emergencies in your life and

neighborhood! Tri-Community South EMS offers

CPR classes on the first Tuesday of every month.

Classes are held at 6 p.m. at its headquarters at

5490 Progress Boulevard in Bethel Park.

For more information, call Natalie at Tri-Community South EMS at

412-831-3710 or visit the TCS website at tcsems.org.


DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PROTECTION

E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety

The popularity of electric bikes and electric scooters

(e-bikes and e-scooters) has taken off over the past few years.

Lithium-ion batteries are usually the source of power for both,

and if not used correctly or if damaged, these batteries can catch

on fire or explode. Whether you use e-bikes or e-scooters as your

main way of getting around or just for fun, there are important

safety tips to keep in mind when charging or storing these devices.

The Problem

• Damaged or defective batteries can over heat, catch fire or

explode.

• Lithium-ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn

extremely hot.

Safety Tips

• Only purchase and use devices, batteries and charging equipment

that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and

labeled accordingly.

• Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

• Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for,

and came with, the device.

• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is

fully charged.

• Only charge one device or device battery at a time to prevent

overloading the circuit.

• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not

charge them at temperatures below 32° F (0°C) or above

105° F (40°C).

• Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles,

and keep them away from children and liquids.

• Store e-bikes, e-scooters and batteries away from exit doors

and anything that can get hot or

catch fire.

• Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.

• Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is

always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling

location or contact your local waste department for disposal

instructions.

Signs of a Problem

Stop using the e-bike or e-scooter if you notice any of these

problems with the battery: unusual odor, change in color, too

much heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking or not keeping

a charge.

If You See a Fire

• Leave the area immediately.

• Don’t try to fight the fire.

• Call 911.

To learn more, visit nfpa.org/ebikes.

Citizens Fire Academy

Thursdays, 7-9 p.m.

Sept. 25 - Oct. 30

Register at uscvfd.com

Recreational Fires

We all enjoy a recreational fire on a mild fall or winter day.

They can be enjoyable and relaxing, but we need to be smart and

considerate about these types of fires. Residents must follow the

following guidelines when considering a recreational fire.

• Recreational fires are allowed in the Township, but they must

be placed at least 25 feet away from any structure.

• Fires in approved containers must be located at least 15 feet

from any structure. Any approved container should have a

screen to provide a spark arrester.

• The fire must be a minimum of 15 feet from your lot line.

Open burning is not permitted in the front yard.

• Be aware of overhead lines and vegetation.

• Fire pile size is required to be three feet or less in diameter

and two feet or less in height.

• Use seasoned, clean and dried firewood. You may not use the

fire for trash disposal of rubbish or brush.

• Fires must be constantly attended.

• Make sure your fires are completely extinguished when

activity is completed. You may use a fire extinguisher with

a minimum of 4-A rating, sand, dirt, water barrel or garden

hose.

• Open burning, including recreational fires, is not allowed on

Allegheny County Air Quality Action Days or upon drought

declaration by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental

Protection.

• Be a good neighbor! Enjoy your recreational fire, but be considerate

of your neighbors. Do not create smoldering fires.

If legitimate complaints are received, the police department

will order the fire to be extinguished.

• If you are building more than just a fire pit, such as an outdoor

mortared brick fireplace or grill, then zoning approval and a

building permit are required.

• The Township offers a bonfire circle at the McLaughlin Run

Recreation Center for use of small or large groups for a $10

fee through the Community & Recreation Center.

Visit Allegheny County Health Department’s website at

alleghenycounty.us/Services/Health-Department/Air-Quality/

Resident-Information/Open-Burning with more information on

open burning. n

Call the Upper St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department at 412-835-0660 if

you have any questions. To report an illegal burn,

contact the police dispatch at 412-833-7500.


MS4 Education: Fertilizing Your Lawn

David Kutschbach, USC Superintendent of Projects

The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)

Program began as a federal program under the Federal Clean Water

Act. Pennsylvania implemented state regulation of the program in

2003. The goal of MS4 is to prevent storm water pollution from

entering the waters of the Commonwealth. In turn, municipalities

are required to develop a storm water management program

based on federal guidelines. MS4 programs are comprised of six

Minimum Control Measures (MCMs).

This public service announcement will cover MCM #1: Public

Education & Outreach. As the title suggests, the goal of MCM #1

is to educate the public on stormwater pollution and prevention.

Now is the perfect time of year to pass on information developed

by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture regarding

the use of fertilizer. Pennsylvania enacted a law on July 11, 2022,

updating requirements for both manufacturers and applicators.

How does that affect you? The updated law defines a fertilizer

applicator as anyone who applies fertilizer, including lawn care

professionals, farmers and homeowners.

The first place to begin when considering the use of fertilizer

is to properly assess your lawn’s nutrient needs. Then, select a

fertilizer that is appropriate for your lawn. Follow the directions

on the fertilizer label to apply the correct amount of product, at

the correct rate, using a spreader that has been properly calibrated.

Using less or more than the optimum amount of fertilizer does a

disservice to your lawn, the environment and your wallet.

The Department of Agriculture recommends the following

best management practices:

• Use a properly calibrated fertilizer spreader to apply your

product.

• Do not apply if the ground is frozen or snow-covered.

• Do not apply if heavy rain is expected.

• Maintain a 15-foot buffer from waterways.

• Apply only to the intended application site.

• Do not apply near water, storm drains or drainage ditches.

• Sweep back onto the turf any fertilizer that lands on an impervious

surface like your sidewalk, driveway or street.

Follow the 4Rs of Nutrient Management: right source, right

rate, right time and right place. n

Sanitary Sewer Backups

and Your Homeowner's Coverage

The Township maintains over 158 miles of underground sewer

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

will occur. And while only a handful of our residents experience a

significant sanitary sewer backup each year, we know that when it

does occur, it is a distressing situation. It can be even more devastating

if a resident is not insured for losses — losses that can easily

run into tens of thousands of dollars.

Sewer Backup Insurance

Homeowners can alleviate possible sewer-related damage

expenses by contacting their property insurance provider to verify

that they have sewer backup coverage. Most homeowners’ insurance

policies do not automatically include coverage for these occurrences.

Given the potential for significant loss, it would be advisable for

homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those

with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage.

Lastly, if you experience a floor drain backup or otherwise suspect

a sanitary sewer problem, contact the township’s Public Works

Department immediately at 412-831-9000, extension 2710.

Holiday

USC

2025 Trash and Recycling

Holiday Collection

Collection Date

Labor Day............................... Thursday, Sept. 4

and Friday, Sept. 5

Thanksgiving.......................... Wednesday, Nov. 26

and Friday, Nov. 28

2025 Fall Yard Debris/Leaf

Waste Collection—Saturdays

Place your fall yard debris and leaf waste in compostable

bags, then place the bags at curbside by 6 a.m. the morning of

pick up. Collection will take place the following five Saturdays:

Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22; Dec. 6.


Clean Streams Update

David Kutschbach, USC Superintendent of Projects

Clean water and abundant aquatic life can be compatible

with a healthy lawn—the two are not necessarily mutually exclusive. A

few common-sense applications can promote the best of both worlds.

A healthy lawn is an important component of a suburban landscape.

Healthy lawns increase the value of a property, effectively filter storm water

run-off, and trap sediment and other pollutants that could otherwise

contaminate a stream.

We often get so used to routine activities that we rarely give them

a second thought. Lawn care—applying fertilizer, mowing, and leaf

clean-up—falls into that category. Lawn maintenance has the potential

to contribute to water pollution, and a conscious awareness goes a long

way toward protecting the environment.

Everyone likes the appearance of a well maintained and green lawn;

however, fertilizer use can negatively affect water quality. Some simple tips

to consider in fertilizer use are:

• Take a soil sample to learn the annual fertility needs of your lawn.

The local Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension office

can assist with a laboratory analysis of your soil. A soil analysis

report will determine any soil deficiencies in nitrogen, phosphorous,

and potassium.

• Select a fertilizer based on the amount of nitrogen your lawn needs.

Slow-release fertilizers are preferred.

• Fertilize only if needed and only when the grass is actively growing.

Lime will improve vegetation health and soil porosity.

Mow your lawn to two to three inches in height. Maintaining taller

grass ensures a deeper and more extensive root system. The benefits include

an increase in nutrient uptake, the ability to absorb more moisture

in a dry spell, and the suppression of weed growth.

As beautiful as the vivid colors of autumn leaves can be, leaves can

also become a nuisance. When leaves are swept onto the street, they will

eventually land into storm sewer drains. Once in the storm sewers, grass

clippings and leaf debris carrying fertilizers and pesticides flow into waterways.

This pollution promotes the growth of algae blooms that degrades

water quality, causing harm to water ecosystems and aquatic life.

The recommended safe and responsible method for leaf disposal is to

collect leaves for the township-scheduled curbside leaf collection in the fall

or the yard waste drop off the second Saturday of the month, April through

December. Mulching and composting are also an option for residents.

What do the everyday activities of applying fertilizer, lawn mowing,

and leaf disposal have in common? All can lead to impaired water quality.

Nutrients, primarily nitrogen and phosphorous, are key ingredients in

fertilizer. When it rains, lawn fertilizer can wash into nearby storm drains

and eventually to streams. To help prevent this:

• Do not use fertilizer to de-ice sidewalks.

• Do not apply fertilizer within 10–15 feet of a stream.

• Sweep any excess or spilled fertilizer off of a sidewalk, driveway, or

street and dispose of it properly. Do not hose it away.

• Leaf litter and grass clippings are a major source of phosphorous. Do

not discard on a stream bank or in the water. Either leave the grass

clippings on the lawn and grind the leaves with your mower, or bag

and dispose of properly.

It is the responsibility and privilege of township residents to protect

our local streams and waterways. Small, thoughtful changes to everyday

activities have the potential to promote great benefits. n

CHICCRETE

CHICCRETE is an

up & coming USC

small business

specializing in high

end, artisan Interior

finishes + Design

+Sourcing +Styling.

We are artists at

heart and are excited

to offer unique,

timeless, and creative

solutions for

your next home

project.

CHICCRETE finishes are

100% waterproof & can

go over any existing stable

hard surface. The perfect

No Demo Reno solution

for outdated bathrooms,

showers, kitchens, flooring,

Pittsburgh basements,

and much more! We also

specialize in interior design services including

selections of finishes, sourcing, + styling. New for

SPRING/SUMMER 2025: CHICCRETE handmade

garden planters, and custom furniture.

www.chiccrete.com

chiccrete22@gmail.com

724.328.3366

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.

Howard Hanna

Upper St. Clair Office

Cell 412-327-2194

Office 412-833-3600

Email amandanasman@howardhanna.com

www.amandanasman.howardhanna.com


EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES GUIDE

ThE

Nutcracker

Register For

The Fall!

Featuring the

largest youth

production in the

greater-Pittsburgh

area!

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh

4100 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-343-9333

balletacademypgh.com info@balletacademypgh.com

Serving the USC community for 8 years

S U M M E R F U N T U R N I N G

T O F A L L E X C I T E M E N T

Fall Registration is Now Open

Imagine them leaping,

twirling and

smiling across

the dance floor!

Everyone and anyone

can learn to ride a bicycle safely

at a county park near you.

You can too!

Register for 2025

private and family lessons at:

Learn3Ride.com

Over 200 classes offered

18 months - 18 years old

Call or Visit us Online Today to Register

W W W . T H O M A S D A N C E . C O M

4 1 2 - 2 5 7 - 2 0 0 0


EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES GUIDE

Feel more confident in your

financial decisions.

Using a personalized planning process

and proprietary investing strategies, our

advisors will build a tailored portfolio to

help you achieve your financial goals.

Advisory services offered by United Capital Financial Advisors, LLC (“United Capital”), a registered investment advisor.

United Capital Financial Advisors

912 Washington Ave

Carnegie, PA 15106

412-276-5010

unitedcapitalwealth.com

Investing Young

Connor McLean, United Capital Advisor

In recent years, more and more clients have asked us to

help their young adult children start an investment plan. We often

respond that we can either “give them a fish” or “teach them how

to fish.” We encourage new and young investors to ask themselves

three questions before they start investing.

Do you have outside savings that are liquid for your short-term

needs?

In other words, do you have enough in your emergency fund to

cover unexpected expenses? The general rule of thumb is to have

enough to cover at least three to six months of your expenses.

Next, look at your financial goals. Are you saving to purchase a

car, a home or some other large investment? Are you also looking

to invest for these short-term goals? If so, when putting together an

investment plan, you’ll need access to investments that are relatively

liquid and not hindered by potential tax penalties.

Do you have current debts, and are you managing them properly?

Debt can often sound like a bad word, but every now and then

we may need to borrow money to help finance our goals, such as

buying a car or a home. The key is to be judicious about how we

take on and manage our debts.

Are you making credit cards work for you by paying them off on

time each month? Or are you piling up high-interest debt that can

easily get out of control? And how about other loans or financing?

Before you start investing, it’s a good idea to make sure your debt is

under control.

If employed, are you taking advantage of your employer-sponsored

retirement plan?

Many companies offer 401(k) plans with different investment options

to help you save for retirement. Employer-sponsored retirement

plans can be a good way to help you build discipline to save regularly.

Understanding the basics of investing

After going through these three questions, you can begin to think

about opening a basic brokerage account, which is a tool that helps

you invest in different assets (stocks, bonds, ETFs, etc.).

In addition to talking about how stocks, bonds, ETFs and mutual

funds work (assets that we consider the brick and mortar of a basic

portfolio for your foundation), we also try to cover the following:

• Dollar-cost averaging

• Diversification

• Risk tolerance

• Asset allocation

• Rebalancing

We believe these concepts are fundamental aspects of investing,

and understanding their importance is a key to building your

financial literacy.

It’s never too early to talk to your children about the importance

of building a solid financial foundation and help show them the

way. And this isn’t something you have to do on your own. Consider

bringing them in with you the next time you sit down with your

financial advisor. n

See ad for United Capital Advisor on this page



Happenings!

Barnyard Beer Benefit | Charissa Lauren

Gilfillan Farm hosted the annual Barnyard

Beer Benefit on May 24, 2025. Upper St.

Clair never fails to show up for our historic

gem because the event is known to bring in

over 600 guests each year, tickets selling out

almost instantly. Rachel Carlson and the farm

volunteers worked extremely hard to pull

together an amazing group of sponsors, including many local businesses like

EmacArtwork, Bella’s on Ft. Couch, Louis Anthony Jewelers, Emma’s Kafé & Deli,

Ardolino’s Pizza, KCG Orthodontics, Bethel Bakery, Amanda Walton Realtor, Maid with

Care, Armful of Flowers and so many more. This year had a few new attractions: FAME

by CL sponsored this year’s DJ, Continuum Capital Advisors sponsored a s’mores station,

and guests enjoyed Axe Throwing by Axe 376. There was plenty of food sampling

to accommodate the many beer samples and for those who don’t drink non-alcoholic

beverages and ciders were included. It was a perfect night meeting local businesses and,

more importantly, getting the chance to connect as a community before the busy summer

season. The highlight this year? It didn’t rain and we couldn’t have asked for better

weather. Next year, make sure to get your tickets early before this local gem sells out.

For more information visit gilfillanfarm.org. n

AUP Inviting New

Members

The Association of

University People (AUP)

invites singles 50+, who

are 4-year college graduates,

to join them for

activities and to meet new

people. Those interested

can attend three activities

as guests before joining.

For more information call

412-353-9088 or email

aupsingles@gmail.com n

Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace 2025

It’s time for the Sugarplum Artisan Marketplace hosted by the

USC League for the Arts. This six-day sale features two filled rooms

of original art, fashion, one-of-a-kind gifts, home accessories and

seasonal décor. There is something for everyone with thousands of

hand-crafted pieces in every price range, and in every style, from

traditional to contemporary.

First-timers will be impressed with the quality and quantity of locally

made items. Loyal regulars, who have made this sale a success

for 51 years, return to see “what’s new” from their favorite artists.

This year’s sale hours are:

Thursday, Nov. 6, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Held in both rooms of the MAC on McLaughlin Run Road, the first

room becomes a stylish “boutique” filled with local craftsmanship,

including glass, fiber, pottery, wood, metal, paper and more. Unlike

traditional arts and crafts shows, the Sugarplum Marketplace artfully

combines all the juried items, including a “kid’s corner” with gifts for

children made by multiple artisans. The second room “gallery” has

more art, including framed, ready-to-hang original paintings, prints

and photography in a variety of sizes. Throughout both rooms, shoppers

will find sustainable art, items for home and gifting that have

been creatively upcycled from repurposed materials.

In addition to this showcase opportunity for local artisans, the USC

League for the Arts provides college scholarships for USC residents

majoring in art-related fields. n

For shop hours and other details,

visit Upper St. Clair League for the Arts on Facebook.


How to Request a Community Foundation Grant

Do you have a unique idea that could benefit the Upper St. Clair Community? Consider filing an application for a grant

from the Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair. To begin, please take note of the CFUSC vision and mission statements, which

are the guiding definition of what the Foundation does in our community.

Our Vision: Investing in residents and their ideas to continually strengthen our community.

Our Mission: To enrich our community by supporting activities and programs, to develop partnerships,

and to award grants in the defined focus areas of Arts, Health, and STEM.”

The CFUSC Board of Trustees is always looking to sponsor initiatives that fit its vision and align with its mission. If you are

curious about the hundreds of project the Foundation has supported since 1993, visit cfusc.org/milestones. More than one million

dollars has been granted for amazing enterprises that are not necessarily funded with tax dollars. The Board values ideas that positively

affect the community, bring benefit to a substantial number of residents and promote a potential long-term effect. Consideration

is given to projects in the focus areas of arts, health and STEM. The Trustees examine a project’s scope, sequence and timeline of

development, review the proposed budget and take the potential community impact into consideration. The timetable for Trustees to

envision, investigate, discuss, and consider a proposal takes two to four months before action to approve a grant can occur.

Applications for CFUSC grants can be found at cfusc.org/grants, and the form asks for general information. The Board always has

questions, and these can be clarified with supplemental files which may be submitted to the Director of Grants (tyochum@cfusc.org)

and the Business Manager (dfox@cfusc.org). Providing additional detailed information can expedite the process. Here are some tips

on how to organize your application and provide a business plan that may put your request at the top of the stack!

• It is recommend that you identify your project with a descriptive title, include your name as grant applicant and

write an introductory statement to briefly describe the “who, what, when, where, why and how” for this project.

• Share your vision and mission statements for the project.

• Identify the CFUSC focus area with which your request aligns, and describe how your project fits with the vision

and mission of the Community Foundation.

• Create a brief action plan showing a timeline for developing and launching your project.

• Develop a financial plan and include a well-defined budget for your project, listing specific materials and costs.

• Using your financial plan, identify how much total funding is needed to accomplish your goal and state the

amount being requested from CFUSC.

• Name other sources of funding you will be using and how much will they contribute to your project.

• Project how many individuals will benefit from your project. (Requests that have the potential to impact as many

as 1000 individuals are favored.)

• Once your project is completed, describe how you will evaluate its success.

A variety of factors are considered in evaluating grants with the goal of identifying projects that are likely to have a positive and

lasting impact on the largest number of Upper St. Clair residents. After the Board has reviewed a grant, they may ask applicants to

present their proposal in person to answer questions. Following a vote to fund a request, applicants are notified that their grant request

is approved. They will be given six months from the approval date to complete and launch their project, and submit invoices to

reimburse expenses. A report defining the successes of the project is to be submitted within 30 days of the close of the event.

Try your hand at applying for a Community Foundation grant. To quote Chaucer, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained!”

Decorate the Dorm Room!

Wouldn’t a plushy Panther Blanket provide the perfect

touch of home to their dorm room this fall?

Go to cfusc.org/shop/stadium-blankets-xw7bx.

Only $70 with free delivery to your doorstep in

Upper St. Clair in 2 to 4 days.


CFUSC Scholarships

Photos by M&M Photography

John and Kathy Burke DeBlassio

Future Educator Scholarship

Recipient Emily Powell with

Dr. John Rozzo Barbara Rahr, Kathy

DeBlassio and Dr. Timothy Wagner

Thomas Harshman Memorial

Scholarship Recipient Elliott Bruno

with Dr. John Rozzo,

Paul Fox, CFUSC Trustee and

Dr. Timothy Wagner

Krishnan Sivaram Scholarship

Recipient Ava Cerny

with Dr. John Rozzo,

CFUSC President Bruce Nelson

and Dr. Timothy Wagner

James Bennett Memorial

Scholarship Recipient Carlee

Santel with Dr. John Rozzo, Mr.

Paul Fox, CFUSC and Dr. Timothy

Wagner

Stroyne STEAM Innovation

Scholarship Recipient Paige Kline

with Dr. John Rozzo and

Dr. Timothy Wagner

T. J. White Scholarship Recipient

Mea Musillo with Dr. John Rozzo,

Mr. Gordon Mathews and

Dr. Timothy Wagner

Spirit of the Community

Scholarship Recipient Kriti Gupta

with Dr. John Rozzo, Paul Fox,

CFUSC and Dr. Timothy Wagner

The Great Duck Race: A Community Day Tradition!

Coach Artie and his ducks floated down McLaughlin Run on Community Day to the delight of more than 600 supporters

and enthusiasts who adopted the colorful little plastic birds. The proceeds from duck adoptions help to sustain the dayto-day

operations of the Community Foundation. This event is one of long standing in CFUSC history and was initiated

at the urging of one time trustee Aleen Mathews, who observed a

similar fundraising event in Colorado. In fact, participation is also a

family tradition as you can see CF trustee Lauren Mathews, pictured

with her niece and nephews, Delanie, Logan, and Mason Mathews,

as they sort the ducks in preparation for the adoptions and race. Trustee

Gordon Mathews identified the need to keep the ducks in forward motion as they

move downstream, so he engaged the engineering skills of HS student Thomas

Mallison to design an apparatus to channel the winners in order as they reach the

finish line and to corral all of the ducks before the float past the finish line. Every

year, he dons his waders and steps into the creek to place the duck catcher. The

event attracts an audience with the help of trustee and Duck Maestro Paul Fox, who marches in the parade

every year with the members of the South Hills Junior Orchestra. Since he had some ruffled feathers due

to a back injury, his chiropractor George Fraudin joined in the fun and provided a comfortable chair in the

bed of his antique pick-up truck. Promptly at the 3 p.m. the race began and the first duck to cross the finish

line earned a $500 gift card for his adopter. Other prizes included an Xbox Series S + the Age of Mythology

Retold, a designer handbag and gift gard to H. Baskin, a spa basket with a Stanley Quencher, a PPG racing

car package, a Pittsburgh Penguins basket, a Sandcastle basket, a Ninja programmable XL 14-Cup Coffee

Maker, a basket from Petagogy, tickets to the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, a Pittsburgh Pirates package,

a Solar Powered Battery Bank and gift cards from Phoenix Theaters, North Country Brewing, Dunkin’

Donuts and Target gift cards. At the end of the race, the ducks all return to their habitat to look forward to the next race. CFUSC

thanks all who support this fun event!


St. Clair Medical Group Cardiology

Michael Bashline, MD I Kyle Buchanan, MD I David Burkey, MD, FACC I John Girod, DO, FACC, FSCAI

Jeffrey Liu, MD, FHRS I James MacDougall, MD, FACC I Christopher Pray, MD, FACC

Robert Shogry, MD I Katherine Shreyder, MD I Ryan Zuzek, MD, FACC

This multidisciplinary team of physicians manages all facets of

cardiovascular disease with the utmost skill, experience, and

compassion at three practice locations.

BETHEL PARK

Village Square

Outpatient Center

2000 Oxford Drive

Suite 305

Bethel Park, PA 15102

412.942.7900

MCMURRAY

5000 Waterdam Plaza

Suite 120

McMurray, PA 15317

412.942.7780

MT. LEBANON

Dunlap Family

Outpatient Center

1000 Bower Hill Road

Suite 7400

Pittsburgh, PA 15243

412.942.7780

Scan here or visit

stclair.org/scmgcardiology

to learn more.

Working Back from the Brink

The GORE® CARDIOFORM device, showcased by Kyle D. Buchanan, MD, is inserted

into the heart across the interatrial septum to patch a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and

reduce the risk of future strokes.

Ryan Kennedy was the picture of fitness. The 39-year-old Scott

Township resident is a dedicated father, devoted husband and committed athlete.

He trained regularly for HYROX — a global fitness competition that combines

endurance running and strength-based challenges. After finishing first in his age group

at a Chicago race in November 2022, Ryan qualified for the World Championships

that would be held in spring 2023 in Manchester, England.

Ryan was in the best shape of his life and ready to race. The family trip to England

was canceled, however, due to the sudden passing of his mother-in-law on April 30,

2023. Little did Ryan and his family know that the coming weeks would not get easier,

as he found himself facing an unexpected and life-threatening challenge.

On June 1, 2023 — the first day of his oldest son’s summer vacation — Ryan was

working from home when he suddenly felt the room spinning. “It felt like someone

grabbed the top of my head, and my brain was in a blender,” he recalls.

Ryan yelled out to his son, Connor, to call 911 before stumbling to the front door

and out onto the porch. He was able to get the attention of a neighbor before going

down, as Connor ran over and told the neighbor to make the call so Ryan could be

rushed to St. Clair Health.

There, Maxim Hammer, MD, MBA, Chief of Neurology, administered a full suite of

tests. “You can be young and physically fit and still have a stroke,” says Dr. Hammer.

“The most important thing is to get evaluated by experts right away — you need to

Act F.A.S.T.”

Ryan stabilized thanks to swift action from Dr. Hammer and the St. Clair Health

team — but his journey had only just begun. Subsequent testing revealed a patent

foramen ovale (PFO), a small hole between the upper chambers of the heart that failed

to close naturally after birth.

According to Kyle Buchanan, MD, who specializes in cardiovascular disease and

interventional cardiology, “One in four people have this, and most will go their whole

life without ever knowing. My heart went out to Ryan.”

Once other causes were ruled out, Dr. Buchanan proceeded with a minimally invasive

procedure to close the PFO and reduce the risk of future strokes. Performed in the

Cardiac Catheterization Lab, the outpatient procedure involves threading a small device

through the blood vessels to seal the opening in the heart.

The procedure is safe, effective and typically requires

minimal recovery time. Which is why, just days after his

stroke, Ryan began outpatient physical therapy with Amy

Trotnick, PT, DPT, NCS. She explains, “To facilitate neuroplasticity,

you want to get started with physical therapy

(PT) as soon as possible.”

While initial sessions included basic movements such

as reaching for a dumbbell and retraining his balance,

Ryan’s routine intensified as he regained strength and

coordination. Eventually, he was back to doing agility

drills and strength training — on one foot, catching a

ball like the athlete he’d always been.

Today, Ryan is back on the HYROX circuit, continuing

to test his limits while cherishing time with his family.

“2023 was a year I’ll never forget,” he reflects. “But

thanks to the incredible care team at St. Clair Health, I

got a second chance — not just at fitness, but at life.” n

St. Clair Health’s integrated stroke care ensures patients

like Ryan receive coordinated, personalized treatment

from the moment symptoms begin to full recovery. If you

or a loved one ever experience signs of a stroke, don’t

hesitate. Act F.A.S.T. and trust St. Clair Health experts to

provide advanced care close to home.


Fall 2025

* Affordable Decks & Additions, LLC ........................................................ 16

* Angelo Associates, Inc .......................................................................... 78

* Arbor Tree Specialists............................................................................ 19

Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh................................................................ 76

Bill Kern State Farm .............................................................................. 19

* Calabro Tire and Auto Service............................................................... 19

Charles Schwab/Courtney Quinlan, CFP, ChFC ..................................... 45

Chicrete................................................................................................. 75

Christmas Décor of Pittsburgh ............................................................. 26

* Davey Tree .......................................................................................... 5

Edgar Snyder & Associates - Phillip E. Kondrot, Partner ....................... 26

Advertiser Index

twpusc.org/usctoday

KSG Orthodontics................................................................................... 5

Learn3Ride............................................................................................ 76

Love and Leashes ................................................................................. 51

* Manalo DMD, Larry E............................................................................ 22

McQueen Building Company .............................................................. 24

Mt. Lebanon Awning ............................................................................ 26

* Mt. Lebanon Recreation ....................................................................... 46

* Pinebridge Commons .......................................................................... 22

RE/MAX Select Realty - Amanda Walton ............................................... 78

* Rusmur Floors..................................................................................... IBC

School of Rock - South Hills.................................................................. 78

TODAY thanks our advertisers for their support of our community magazine!

Please consider using their services whenever you are able.

Envisage/ Presbyterian Seniorcare Network ......................................... 21

* Extended Day Services ......................................................................... 76

* George Girty Landscape Design ........................................................... 78

Howard Hanna - Shannon Gallagher.................................................... 20

Howard Hanna - Amanda Nasman........................................................ 75

* Howard Hanna - USC Office ................................................................ IFC

JAB Jewelry Works................................................................................. 7

* Keller Willliams - Sandy Goldstein ....................................................... 26

* Kerr Dentistry ....................................................................................... 22

Scoglio.................................................................................................. 23

* Scott Bros Windowes & Doors ............................................................... 7

* South Hills Endoscopy Center ............................................................... 1

Splash | A Division of Nicklas Supply.................................................... 57

* St. Clair Health................................................................................. 3,82

Swift Audiology..................................................................................... 17

The Porch at Sienna............................................................................... 17

* Thomas Dance Studio........................................................................... 76

United Capital Financial Advisors ......................................................... 77

Let

guide you in 2025 with

great ad placement.

Upcoming winter guides

include Holiday and Life

Planning

Place your ad

in our community’s go-to publication.

Contact 412-851-2851.

*The above advertisers, who are advertising in this issue,

have contributed their financial support for a

minimum of 50 issues.

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




Presort STD

US Postage PAID

Permit # 206

Pittsburgh PA

OPEN HOUSE

celebrating

Upper St. Clair

Volunteer Fire Department’s

20th Anniversary of the

Washington Road Fire Station

Saturday, October 11, 2025

1 - 4 p.m.

FALL 2025 UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY

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