IN Woodland Hills by IN Community Magazines

Summer 2009

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Introducing the Woodland Hills Academy

Jack Valentine Associates, LLC E N R O L L E D AG E N T S

We believe in the value of relationships. We view every client relationship like a partnership, and truly believe that our success is a result of your success.

TAX PREPARATION AND PLANNING • Business Consulting • Bookkeeping and Accounting

• Employee Benefits Consultation • Payroll Processing & Compliance

MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ENROLLED AGENTS

412.856.8888 304 JONNET BUILDING • MONROEVILLE, PA 15146 Hi! We’re Your Neighbors System of Care Initiative

Promotes social and emotional wellness in young children and their families. Families, children, and providers become partners so that each child can function better at home, in school, and in the community.

CONTACT STARTING EARLY TOGETHER

To schedule a FREE screening

Mario T. Plaza-Ponte, MD

Are you concerned about your child’s social and emotional development? Does your child ... Resist being held? Avoid eye contact? Have long, frequent tantrums? Hurt themselves or others? Seem sad or with drawn? Lack curiosity?

FACS, FASCRS, RVT, RPVI

Venous Circulation Specialist 2201 Ardmore Blvd. Forest Hills, PA 15221

412.373.9580 724.542.4142

412-271-2244

STARTING EARLY TOGETHER

www.pittsburghveins.com

99 Miller Avenue, Rankin, PA 15104 412-271-1742 x206

Serving Forest Hills for over 40 years!

www.myspace.com/1shearbeauty

CONTENTS SUMMER

2009

7 FEATURES 7 WWII History Lesson Woodland Hills eighth grade students get a special visit from the granddaugher of a littleknown WWII hero 13 Gene Kelly Awards Woodland Hills High School musical wins five of the coveted awards for excellence in high school musical theater

T H E W E S T E R N P E N N S Y LVA N I A H O S P I TA L – FORBES REGIONAL CAMPUS

HouseCalls SUMMER 2009

Forbes Named Region’s First Accredited Chest Pain Center The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus is the first hospital in the Pittsburgh region to be named an accredited Chest Pain Center by the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Only nine other hospitals statewide have earned this accreditation.

• Assessment of patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no apparent cause for their symptoms.

To earn accreditation status, facilities must meet or exceed a wide set of stringent criteria and an on-site evaluation by a review team from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Accredited facilities are committed to providing quality cardiac care to patients and have the resources available to do so.

• Process improvement • Personnel, competencies and training • Organizational structure and commitment

Accredited Chest Pain Centers meet or exceed quality-of-care measures based on improving the process for the care of patients with acute coronary syndrome, a set of symptoms that include chest pain, nausea and shortness of breath. “This accreditation shows Forbes Regional Campus’ high level of commitment to quality in treating patients with acute coronary syndrome and coronary artery disease,” said John Balacko, MD, Medical Director of the Chest Pain Center. The Society of Chest Pain Center’s accreditation process formalizes and standardizes this elite mark of excellence. To earn accreditation, Forbes had to demonstrate expertise in the following key areas: • Integration of the hospital’s emergency department with the community emergency medical system.

• Functional facility design “This accreditation involves not just emergency room treatment of the patient with chest pain, but every stage of that patient’s care from emergency medical services (EMS) to medical or surgical treatment, rehab and discharge,” said Darlette Tice, Vice President, Operations and Chief Nurse Executive at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus. “It recognizes the outstanding work done by all employees at Forbes Regional Campus.”

17 Although accreditation under the Society of Chest Pain Centers does not require a hospital to feature a dedicated chest pain unit for low risk patients, Forbes has taken the importance of early heart attack care and Continued on page 2.

WEST PENN ALLEGHENY HEALTH SYSTEM One Purpose. One Mission.

17 Special Insert: The Western Pennsylvania Hospital - Forbes Regional Campus

• Assessment, timely diagnosis and treatment of patients with acute coronary syndrome, including heart attacks and unstable angina.

COMMUNITY SECTIONS 5 9 10 11 14 15 16 25

Community Development Spiritual Wellness Places of Worship From the Vet Tech C.C.Mellor Memorial Library Around Town Community Spotlight Woodland Hills School District

Cover MBK Photography

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

# $ % &' !( ) * + , - ./ 0 1 & ! "#$%&'!()*+,-./01&! 21&&!#/31'! 2 21&&!#/31' &&!# 3 !

445678!9:;<;;;; 5678!9:;<;;;; ;! ===>103$+=?<@101A+@+0->*/@! = >1 0 3 $ + = ? < @ 1 0 1 A + @ + 0 - >* / @ ! ! ! 57BC!D$++0?E%$A!F.G+ 5 !

ADVERTISE HERE DIRECT MAILED to all residents in the Woodland Hills School District

Call 724.942.0940 Expires 8/29/09

sales@incommunitymagazines.com

Grief Shared is Grief Diminished. Our Grief Support Group meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month in St. Maurice Parish Center at 7 p.m. It is professionally facilitated by Dr. Barbara Coyne and is open and free to anyone who grieves.

412-824-8800

412-823-9350

Fax 412-82-7515 700 Linden Ave. at Cable East Pittsburgh, PA 15112 PATRICK T. LANIGAN Supervisor

Turtle Creek/Monroeville Chapel Turtle Creek, PA 15145 STEPHANIE L. DORIGUZZI Supervisor

www.laniganfuneralhome.com 2 IN Woodland Hills

" !

Facials Make-up Waxing Pedicures & Manicures

WEDDINGS. BANQUETS. SCHOOL EVENTS.

412.271.4414

Presentation of Christ Greek Orthodox Church 1575 Electric Avenue East Pittsburgh, PA 15112

2201 Ardmore Blvd., Suite 4 | Forest Hills asktetyana@gmail.com

15%

off all 60-minute services: facials, body waxing, custom blend make-up, spa pedicures/manicures with this coupon. Not valid with any other offers or promotions. Offer expires 8/31/09

www.olympia-hall.com

Olympia Hall...where lasting memories are made!

Call for an Appointment

Theodora V. Stupakis, Banquet Manager

412-824-5540

Municipalities BRADDOCK 415 Sixth Street Braddock, PA 15104 412.271-1018 Fax: 412.271.7414 Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Council meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the borough building. BRADDOCK HILLS Wilkins Avenue and Brinton Road Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412.241.5080 Fax: 412.242.2860 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Council meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 8 p.m. at the borough building. CHALFANT 144 Lynnwood Avenue East Pittsburgh, PA 15112 412.823.6500 Council meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the borough building.

CHURCHILL 2300 William Penn Highway Pittsburgh, PA 15235 412.241.7113 Hours: Mon – Fri, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. info@churchillborough.com EAST PITTSBURGH BOROUGH 813 Linden Avenue East Pittsburgh, PA 15112 412.823.7124 Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Council meetings are held the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the borough building. EDGEWOOD Two Race Street Pittsburgh, PA 15218 412.242.4825 Fax: 412.242-4027 Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. manager@edgewoodboro.com www.edgewood.Pittsburgh.pa.us Council meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the borough building.

SWISSVALE BOROUGH 7560 Roslyn Street Pittsburgh, PA 15218 412.271.7101 Hours: Mon.– Fri., 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

FOREST HILLS 2071 Ardmore Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412.351.7330 Fax: 412.351.7337 Council meetings are held the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the borough building.

Council meetings are held the 1st and last Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the borough building.

NORTH BRADDOCK 600 Anderson Street North Braddock, PA 15104 412.271.1306 Fax: 412.351.2388

TURTLE CREEK 125 Monroeville Avenue Turtle Creek, PA 15145 412.824.2500 Hours: Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

RANKIN 320 Hawkins Avenue Rankin, PA 15104 412.271.1027 Hours: Mon – Fri, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Council meetings are held the 1st Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the borough building.

Council meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the borough building.

WILKINS TOWNSHIP Wilkins Township 110 Peffer Road Turtle Creek, PA 15145-1192 412.824.6650 www.wilkinstownship.com Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Township commissioners meet the 2nd and last Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the municipal building.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

NOW HIRING Full-time sales position available for IN Woodland Hills Magazine. Work from home Expense Allowance Excellent Commissions & Draw Two weeks paid training provided Contact Wayne Dollard @ 724.942.0940

Summer 2009 IN Woodland Hills is a non-partisan community magazine dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Woodland Hills School District and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Dr. Walter M. Calinger Joyce Fratangelo Shawna Gerson Kurt Landefeld

Maria McCool Kelli McElhinny Greer Mulholland Pastor Rick Paladin Caitlyn Price

GRAPHIC DESIGN Susie Doak Bridget Michael Jeff Turk Tamara Tylenda

It’s no secret

PHOTOGRAPHERS Elaine Petrakis/Elaine Petrakis Photography Jack Ruskin Carl Stillitano/CPS Photography

WEB DEVELOPMENT DS Multimedia ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Wendy Routh wendy@incommunitymagazines.com ADVERTISING SALES Each issue of IN Woodland Hills is mailed to every household in the Woodland Hills School District and reaches more than 53,000 potential customers.

724.942.0940 sales@incommunitymagazines.com

The Early Learning Institute is Allegheny County’s Early Education Leader At The Early Learning Institute’s Penn Center facility in Wilkins Township, we offer year-round open enrollment for area children – providing childcare for kids 18 months to 6-years-old in a unique learning environment. We also offer before-school care for kindergarten through 6th grade students. Subsidized Childcare Available 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Friday U telipa.org U 412.823.6376

Tina Dollard Rose Estes Brian McKee David Mitchell Tara Reis Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert Leo Vighetti

Fall Issue Deadline: July 29, 2009 IN Woodland Hills, is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2009.

www.incommunitymagazines.com

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Forest Hills arches to show you where you are by Jonathan Barnes

Even with the only landscaped boulevard in the Pittsburgh area, Forest Hills is a town that those passing through don’t always stop to check out. Despite the roadside signs with the borough’s name and the greenery of Forest Hills Park along Ardmore Boulevard, many of the tens of thousands of motorists traveling daily through the borough don’t make the connection, and use the road as a throughway to another destination, rather than seeing the borough’s business district as a destination. That perception should change soon, with the erection of four large, ornamental wrought iron arches above Ardmore Boulevard in the borough. The lighted arches, which will be topped with finials, will have the words, “Forest Hills, Tree City USA” spelled out in the ironwork at their tops, so motorists will easily recognize that the business district and the borough are one and the same. The arches will be on each side of Ardmore Boulevard, at the Sumner Avenue intersection, by the Lennox Avenue intersection, and by the Marion Avenue intersection. The arches will be similar in appearance to the arch above the Boulevard of the Allies by Duquesne University. The first of the decorative arches, which will be 20 feet high and 23 feet wide, will be erected this month. The other arches will go up one at a time, and all will be in place by August, said Ross Nese, president of Forest Hills Community Development Corporation. The arches will be the most prominent element of a plan to give a facelift to the borough’s Ardmore Blvd. business district. The intention of the arches is to more clearly delineate the borough’s business district, said Steve Morus, Forest Hills borough manager. This summer, workers will be planting ornamental trees in the business district’s Ardmore Boulevard medians, and oak trees will be planted alongside the road. Newly installed sidewalks have made the district more pedestrian-friendly, and crosswalks and lights to be installed this summer will complete that effort. Shedding light on the improvements will be 50 Colonialstyle lampposts that will be installed this summer and will line Ardmore Blvd. through the business district.

Begun in 2001, Forest Hills Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit that is independent of the borough’s government, but which works with local leaders on borough redevelopment goals. In 2002, FHCDC began holding a series of public meetings regarding ideas for improving the look, accessibility and safety of the borough’s business district. The landscaping, street and sidewalk improvements, and other upgrades initially were ideas that came out of those meetings. The borough’s business district redevelopment project has been ongoing for several years, and has helped transform the look of the district. Thirteen businesses there took advantage of the plan by doing façade improvements, which were partly funded through the effort. Much has changed in the borough since those first brainstorming sessions years ago. Borough residents held a referendum to change the formerly dry town to one allowing alcohol to be served in some establishments. A $2.5 million high-rise residential building for senior citizens was built in the business district, and a $2 million First Commonwealth Bank building was built where the former Great American Federal Bank once stood. Still, the rising of the steel arches above Ardmore Boulevard has been anticipated for years, and actually was expected to happen as far back as 2005. Due to changes required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the fabrication and erection of the arches have been repeatedly delayed. The arches have been designed four times, Nese said. The ornamental arches are expected to perform similarly to a small business’s sign being hung in front of the business—it will make those passing by aware of what they are passing. Motorists driving through will know the district is open for business. “The arches will make the area different than all the other business areas,” Nese said. “These arches also should slow traffic.” The final cost for the design, fabrication and erection of the four arches will be $600,000. The other commercial district improvements, including the business façade improvements, landscaping, and street, lighting and sidewalk improvements, will cost $600,000 in total.

United States Steel Foundation Awards Funds to Braddock Carnegie Library Representatives from United States Steel Corporation (NYSE: X) and the United States Steel Foundation presented Victoria Vargo, executive director of the Braddock Carnegie Library, a check to support the operating goals of the library including expanding its early childhood programming, increasing services to adults of all ages and to building future collaborations and partnerships. The Braddock Carnegie Library is the first library built in the United States by U. S. Steel’s founder, Andrew Carnegie, near the company’s longest operating steel mill, Edgar Thomson Works. In 1978, Braddock’s Field Historical Society was formed to restore and operate the library. Since the reopening of the library in 1982 the library has been a cornerstone of the Braddock community.

U. S. Steel Mon Valley Works General Manager Lisa Roudabush presents a $25,000 grant check from the United States Steel Foundation to Braddock Carnegie Library Executive Director Victoria Vargo.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

IN D U S T R Y IN S I G H T

Financial Solutions for Long Term Care in Today’s Tough Economic Times Today’s economy has affected all of us, but it brings unprecedented financial challenges for seniors and their families who are preparing to move to an assisted living community in the near future. Losses from the stock market or savings plans should not cause families to put their long term care plans on hold. There are a number of programs available to make assisted living an affordable option for everyone. The professionals from Juniper Village at Forest Hills offer the following advice. Veterans Benefits If you are a U.S. Veteran, or the surviving spouse of a Veteran, you may be eligible to receive a federal monthly pension to help pay for your assisted living care. Under the Veteran’s Aid & Attendance program, Veteran’s can receive up to $1644 per month, and both a husband and wife can receive up to $2582 per month to help pay for their assisted living care. Elderlife Financial Services Through Elder Choice Financial, simple, convenient financing options are available from a recognized leader in financial services. Flexible and convenient loan options are ideal for those who need rent support while they wait for other benefits to begin, or are in the process of selling a home. Life Care Funding The liquidation of a life insurance policy through a life settlement can act as a funding bridge to help cover the costs of retirement and senior living services when other assets such as a home or stocks, are underperforming or difficult to sell. Gift Tax Exemption Family members can pitch in toward the cost of assisted living and take advantage of the IRS gift tax exemption. In 2009, individuals can provide gifts up to $13,000 per person, per year without paying a federal gift tax.

Juniper Village wants to remind everyone that consultation with a tax professional is strongly advised before making any financial decisions. However, the above programs may help make long term care an affordable option for you and your loved one. For more information about these programs, or to make an appointment for a financial discussion regarding your retirement options contact Bonnie Prisk, the Community Relations Director at Juniper Village at Forest at 412.244.9901. Juniper Village at Forest Hills offers senior living, assisted living and specialized memory impairment long term care. Juniper Village at Forest Hills is located at 107 Fall Run Road, in Pittsburgh, PA.

Discover The Juniper Village Difference!

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Impairment Care Spacious studios, suites and one-bedroom apartments available On-site nursing staff and 24 hour assistance with daily care needs Structured activities and programs seven days a week Delicious meals and snacks daily Housekeeping and laundry services Conveniently located in Forest Hills For more information or to schedule your personal tour, contact Juniper Village at (412) 244-9901 today! Or visit us on the web at www.junipercommunities.com

IN Woodland Hills

Granddaughter of Chinese “Righteous” Diplomat Visits Junior High

Every year in the Woodland Hills School District, 8th graders research the Holocaust as part of their study of World War II. They also take part in a dramatized reading of The Diary of Anne Frank. Over the years, actual Holocaust survivors have visited our schools to speak to our students. This year the Holocaust Center is making former teacher Bettie Ho Carlson available for a visit. Ms. Ho Carlson related the gripping story of her grandfather, Dr. Feng Shan Ho. Dr. Ho was recognized by the Israeli Government at Yad Vashem as a “Righteous Among The Nations” for his humanitarian courage in the rescue of Austrian Jews between 1938-1940. Although much less well-known than Oscar Schindler and Raoul Wallenberg, Dr. Feng Shan Ho of the Republic of China was instrumental in saving thousands of Jews in Nazi-controlled Austria by issuing them visas to flee the Holocaust. For two years following the German annexation, Chinese Consul in Vienna, Feng Shan Ho, issued visas to any Jew who requested one.He knew that Chinese visas to Shanghai were actually used as means for people to get to the US, England and other destinations. Dr. Ho did this at great danger to himself as his immediate supervisor, Chen Jia, the Chinese ambassador in Berlin, was adamantly opposed to giving visas to Jews. In December 1938, 7000 Jews crossed the border into Switzerland and Italy. Many of them were carrying Chinese visas. A survivor saved by Dr. Ho expressed the feelings of many others saved by him: “I believe Feng Shan Ho was a man of principle and compassion. His actions were all the more noble because he acted against the instructions of his superiors. For this I wish to express to him and to his family a sincere and heartfelt thanks.” IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

10 minutes with Edgewood Manager Warren Cecconi by Jonathan Barnes

Sometimes where a person needs to be, both personally and professionally, is close to home. Many find that to be fulfilled on both levels is ideal, which could be part of the reason why Edgewood’s new borough manager is happy to be in his post. Warren Cecconi took the helm as manager of Edgewood April 1. The longtime government worker has been serving with various local governments for decades, most recently as Dormont Borough’s manager, where he worked for nine months before taking his current job. His new position, with a community of just 3,000 people which is less than a square mile in size, is with a community that is significantly smaller than other communities where he has worked. Cecconi has held management positions with Swissvale, where he worked for six years; with Bridgeville, where he worked for 10 years; and with his former hometown of Homer City, where he worked for eight years. He earned a B.A. in Business Management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1971. He has been married for 42 years to his wife, Jane. They have a son and a granddaughter, who also live in Swissvale. Cecconi can be reached by email at manager@edgewoodborough.com. Is your last name pronounced Chi-coney or Si-coney?

It’s Si-coney. But the old time Italians pronounce it Chi-coney, with a hard C. When you were a young person, did you dream of some day growing up to be a borough manager?

I started out my career working in industry. In college, I developed some relationships with people interested in government. I liked government, and got interested in it. What particular challenges will you face as Edgewood’s manager?

One of the biggest challenges facing everybody is to ensure that you’re spending money wisely and efficiently. Another challenge facing Edgewood is addressing the sewer redevelopment required by [the EPA’s] combined sewer overflow consent decree. A lot of local governments have taken a beating with their investments and some are short of cash because of it. Others are just seeing less revenue from taxes, and are strapped because of it. How are Edgewood Borough’s finances these days?

Right now, our revenues and expenses are right on target for the year.

IN Woodland Hills

How is working in Edgewood different than the work you did with other communities?

As the manager of a small community, you get more hands-on in a lot of areas. Edgewood’s got a small population, and very low crime. You’ve been working in local government for many years. What do you like about being a borough manager?

I enjoy working with people. Government is always going, moving seven days a week, 24 hours a day. It’s a challenging environment, but it’s very rewarding. You only served with Dormont Borough for nine months, but that is really just because you saw the opportunity with Edgewood, correct?

That’s right. Living in Swissvale, and being very familiar with Edgewood, I was excited to join the borough government. What do you think of Edgewood?

I think it’s a good, solid community. It’s more of a bedroom community.

Saturday, July 4 H Forest Hills Park

H Food H H Games H H Races H

H Contests H H Prizes H All raffle proceeds go directly to Community Day funding. Many popular prizes to choose from this year! So buy plenty of tickets to help fund Community Day 2009— everybody’s a winner!

Volunteers Needed! Volunteers are need to assist in planning and helping on Community Day. Contact Pat Lanigan at 412.824.8800 or laniganfh@aol.com, or call Linda Mallick at 412.824.8973.

SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

Reframing Life s we pulled up to the Light of Life mission on the North Side we were all half excited, the other half nervous. My wife, five children, and I were going to serve for the evening. Up the steps, down a narrow hallway, back to the kitchen we went. This wasn’t our normal routine so we were fairly quiet and somewhat reserved, as we took it all in. We received our instrucby Pastor Rick Paladin tions, quickly put on our aprons, hair nets, and gloves and went to work. Before the evening was over we served 120 meals to people that desperately needed them. Men and women of all different colors, shapes, and sizes came through. Many of them voiced thanks and appreciation for what they received. Some wore their past and problems on their sleeves more than others; and although they didn’t voice it, they all seemed they had a story to share. One thing was evident, in this place they didn’t seem the same as if we had passed them on the street corner. During the dinner hour, they were just normal, every day people who were sharing a meal, and we were simply the ones serving it up. After we completed our kitchen duties and all was cleaned up, mopped up, and propped up we were allowed to take a tour of their facilities. We saw their overnight sleeping quarters along with the great work they do there to help people to get back on their feet. As we listened to their stories we realized we really were seeing only a snapshot of their lives. How easy it is to take one look, make a first impression and formulate a

final judgment of what we really think about others. At times we fool ourselves into thinking we know all there is to know about someone, their situation, or position in life. But in reality we only see what’s inside the “frame” that we put around them through our own lenses. I had to ask myself what could happen if we would change our view. I know what happened to me and my family. We were reminded that it is always better to give than to receive, and that good things always seem to happen when we get out of our comfort zone and complacency and give our time and energy for someone else. It’s so easy to see our own picture, problems, and everyday hassles and forget that there is a bigger picture that we need to be taking in. Sometimes we need to take a step back and see the whole picture, looking beyond just what is showing inside the frame. The same is true of our lives. We know it’s true, but why is it so difficult? Why did it take four months for my family and me to schedule our time to serve at the mission? When was the last time we took time to be inconvenienced for someone else? That is the place where perspective changes and a bigger view comes into focus. That is what being a part of a church is supposed to be all about, getting a different perspective getting our lenses re-focused and seeing the bigger picture. What a great joy it has been to learn to serve and teach our children these principles within the context of our congregation. I could give them the best education, finest clothes, and the best that life has to offer, but if we can’t give the next generation the right perspective and the right frame to look through, what have really given them? We’ll be looking for you this Sunday as we all re-frame our week together!

How’s your perspective? Looking for a better view? Join us on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. 1200 Wolfe Avenue, North Braddock. Ladders provided weekly

412-824-1616 WORDANDWORSHIP.ORG Rick Paladin, Lead Pastor

“If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed.” Proverbs 29:18

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

C HURCHES S ERVING W OODLAND H ILLS Being a Good Neighbor Forest Hills Presbyterian Church (FHPC) has been a generous contributor to the community of Forest Hills and surrounding areas for many years. A familiar saying is ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive’. The people of this congregation have existed and been directed by these words in many ways. The men and women give of their time by volunteering to support the Woodland Hills School district by giving anonymously baskets of food to families in the area during the holidays. The members of the congregation pray regularly for the students, teachers and the administration. They have encouraged other churches to join them as they have prayed on site around the flag pole at the school. Another outreach to the community is to provide a free day camp to elementary students every June. This week of fun and excitement is open to any child of the community and has reached children of all the area elementary schools. Children have come and have been nurtured in faith and have enjoyed a time of celebration with many children of the neighborhood. The church has been a sponsor for Boy Scout Troop 90 for many years, as well as Cub Scout Pack 90, Girl Scouts, and the newly formed Venture group. The church believes by supporting these community groups we are encouraging the children and the families of the neighborhood to raise their children with moral values. The congregation gives of their talents by supplying the food booths for the 4th of July community celebration, May Market and Fall Fest. These outreaches provide the members of the congregation a time to share words of encouragement and hope with those who attend. Another outreach is the Joyful Twirlers. This growing youth ministry takes their faith to “the street” through parades and public events. All of these activities are possible because of the generous hearts of the members of the congregation. Worship and small group opportunities are central to main purpose of FHPC. Weekly the church welcomes and invites people of all ages. Ten percent of all income is given to local, national and international missions. Monthly a group of people from the church provide 100 lunches for the homeless in the city of Pittsburgh and gives food to a local food bank. Weekly the church generously provides their parking lot to the community for parking 50 cars as a park and ride and during the summer on Friday nights the parking lot becomes the neighborhood farmers market. Another familiar quote is to “give and it will be given unto you”. The men and women of FHPC are a living testimony to these words.

Epiphany Lutheran Church 412.241.1313

Presbyterian Church of America 412.793.7117

Christ Lutheran Church and School 412.271.7173

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.793.1394

Sri Venkateswara Temple 412.373.3380

Faith Bible Baptist Church 412.825.7450

Hebron United Presbyterian Church 412.371.2307

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church 412.242.3374

First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood 412.241.4613

Laketon Heights United Methodist 412.241.9170

St. James Episcopal Church 412.242.2300

Mount Hope Community Church 412.793.0227

Trinity Tower United Methodist 412.793.9000

Mount Olive Church of God in Christ 412.361.0503

Universal United Presbyterian Church 412.793.1355

New Vision Community Church 412.241.6160

Word & Worship Church 412.824.1616

Parkway Jewish Center 412.823.4338

Zion Lutheran Church 412.242.2626

Penn Hills Baptist Church 412.793.6640

All Saints Anglican Episcopal Church 412.793.0270

Penn Hills Free Methodist Church 412.793.7263

Beulah Presbyterian Church 412.242.4570

IN Woodland Hills

Good Shepherd Catholic Parish 412.271.1515 Mount Olive Baptist Church 412.271.0303 Presentation of Christ Greek Orthodox Church 412.824.9188 St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church 412.824.0246 St. John Fisher 412.241.4722

If your church is missing from this list, please E-mail mark@incommunitymagazines.com

FROM THE VET TECH

Vacationing with

Your Pet Shawna Gerson Licensed Veterinary Technician

Summer’s coming and you’ll probably be getting ready for your summer vacation in no time. Rather than leaving your pets down at the local kennel or with grandma, or giving your keys to that neighbor kid who you hope is responsible enough to remember to feed your pets and leave them fresh water everyday, why not take your pets with you? While it may sound more challenging that it actually is, vacationing with your pet can be a very rewarding experience for you and your pet. Dogs by their very nature are “pack” animals. They love their families and to be included in family activities because they see you as members of their “pack.” Leaving your pet behind can cause what’s known as “separation anxiety,” which is a nervous reaction your dog may have to being left alone. How severe separation anxiety a dog exhibits depends on each individual dog. Some simply present signs that many people misconstrue as “misbehaving.” In reality, the dog is seeking a calming activity to put him or her at ease during your absence. This can include chewing table legs, incessant whimpering, scratching and digging, and even soiling the house despite being housetrained. Travelling with your pet can avoid these issues. Many websites such as www.petswelcome.com, list hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, resorts, beaches, campgrounds and more that all accept dogs, cats and even birds in some cases. Some places charge a fee for bringing your pet along, others do not. You’ll have to decide which accommodation fits your plan the best. If you do take along your best friend, remember that you’ll be packing for them as well. In addition to the standard leash and collar, you’ll need to pack extra food and medications if your pet takes any. Be sure to take along enough for the entire trip and add a couple extra doses in case any get lost or you are delayed by a side-trip to Aunt Mildred’s on the way home. And don’t forget extra water, especially if you’re off to somewhere hot and sunny. Packing extra treats for the road isn’t a bad idea, either. You’ll need to stop every couple of hours for “pit stops,” so be sure to bring along plastic bags to clean up the mess. If you’re travelling with your cat, be sure to take a litter box and extra litter. It also helps to plan ahead to know where any emergency veterinary clinics are near where you are staying. Just in case of the worst, you should pack a recent photo of your pet and a list of its vital information and microchip ID number. If your dog typically stays in a crate at home, be sure to pack his or her crate for the road and don’t forget his or her favorite toy. Remember, it’s their vacation too!

“Vacationing with your pet can be a very rewarding experience for you and your pet.”

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

IN D U S T R Y IN S I G H T

Choosing a Phone When You Have Hearing Loss: Part One by Dr. Debra Comte, Audiologist and Owner of Community Hearing

alking on a cell phone can be a difficult task. The signal is not always clear and there can be a lot of background noise, making it hard to understand what the person is saying. It is even harder to hear if you are a person with a hearing loss. Further, using a cell phone with hearing aids can result in interference such as whining, buzzing, or humming. But, if you have a hearing loss you do not need to give up using a cell phone. With a little knowledge you can select a cell phone that will be compatible with your hearing aids. The first step in selecting a compatible cell phone is learning what mode you will be using your hearing aid in. Hearing aids can be used with cell phones in two main modes. The first is with the microphone and the second is with a telecoil. If you are not sure which mode you will be using, ask your audiologist.

Microphone Mode In the microphone mode there are two main kinds of interference, feedback and radio frequency (RF) emissions. Feedback is a whistling sound that can occur when you bring something close to the hearing aid’s microphone. Your audiologist may make an acoustic telephone program in your hearing aid to help eliminate feedback. RF emissions can be heard as a buzzing sound and are the result of calls being transmitted over radio waves. The amount of RF emissions can be controlled by choosing phones with a M3 or M4 rating. A phone with an M4 rating will have the least amount of RF emissions. These ratings, as well as “T” ratings as described below, are mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Not all cell phones will have these ratings, so look on the packaging and the user manual for the “M” and “T” ratings. Telecoil Mode A telecoil picks up electromagnetic energy emitted from the phone and converts it to sound. Advantages of using a telecoil include eliminating feedback and reducing the amount of background noise. When shopping for a phone with good telecoil coupling, look for phones rated T3 or T4. T4 is the best choice for coupling to a telecoil. Choosing Transmission Technology The type of transmission technology you use can also have an effect on the amount of interference during a call. Select a phone carrier with CDMA or iDEN transmission technologies for best results. Online Tool A very useful website for selecting a hearing aid compatible phone is www.phonescoop.com/ 12

IN Woodland Hills

phones/finder.php. Start by clicking on “Show all options.” Under the “Specifications” section you will find a “Technology” section. Mark CDMA and iDEN. Under the “Features” section there is a section titled “Accessibility”. Under “Accessibility” you will find “Hearing Aid Compatible.” Select “M4,T4” to start your search with the most compatible phones. Put less requirements if you would like to see more phone choices. Last Considerations Telecoil users may experience a kind of interference called baseband magnetic noise, which comes from the cell phone’s electronics. Look for a cell phone that has a flip top receiver since that will bring the speech further away from the electronic components. Also, backlighting may stay on during phone calls which can cause interference. So, try to find a cell phone that lets you adjust your display settings. Most carrier stores will let you test the phone prior to purchase. Also, be sure to note the store’s return policy. For further questions, visit www.CommunityHearing.net or talk to your audiologist. Look in the fall issue for Part Two of this article where I will talk about selecting a phone for the home and also about going “hands free” with your cell phone.

Woodland Hills High School Musical Honored at 19th Annual Gene Kelly Awards Congratulations to the Cast and Crew, Mr. Crone and all of the individuals involved in the WHHS spring musical, The Wizard of Oz for bringing home five Gene Kelly Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre for: Best Lighting Best Crew Best Set Design Best Direction Best Musical

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

CC M E L L O R M E M O R I A L L I B R A R Y www.ccmellorlibrary.org Sally Bogie

Summer Programs |

For Kids

Library Director

Andrea McNeill

Kids Programs

Children’s Librarian

Call 412.731.0909 for information or to make reservations.

Brenda Joyce-May

Opera Improv

Forest Hills Branch Manager

Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. • Ages 6 and up Dates: July 9, 16, 23, 30

Edgewood Branch One Pennwood Avenue Edgewood, PA 15218 412.731.0909 Monday-Thursday: 10 am-8 pm Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sunday

Forest Hills Branch 444 Avenue D Forest Hills, PA 15221 412.824.3567

Summer Reading Club Kickoff Party Mon., June 15 • 12-1:30 p.m. Edgewood Community House Ballroom

Join us for a kick-off party featuring our favorite folk singer and musician, Sandy Putorek. You can register for the summer reading club that bests suits your needs, enjoy the wonderful entertainment and have a snack. Reservations for this free program need to be made by Saturday, June 13. Call the library at (412) 731.0909 to save your spot today!

Monday, Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday: 4-8 p.m. Closed Thursday & Sunday

Be Creative @ Your Library– Wilkins Adventures

Board of Trustees Meetings

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Jun. 18, 25; Jul. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Aug. 6, 13 Churchill Borough Building

Open to the Public June 25, July 23, August 27, September 24

Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m., June 17-Aug. 12 Wilkins Recreation Building

Be Creative@ Your Library –Churchill Adventures

The stage is set for a summer of creativity and fun! Join Ms. Liz every week for Summer Reading Club activities.

7-8 p.m. C.C. Mellor Memorial Library Conference Room

Way Cool Wednesdays–Edgewood

Toddler Story Time Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. • Ages 18 months-2 years Dates: June 16, 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25

Children 18 months.3 years of age are invited to join us for storytime. Storytime participants hear stories, learn fingerplays, do flannel board activities and watch a short book related film and do a craft project. Groups of 10 or more need reservations.

Preschool Story Time Wednesdays 10:30-11:15 a.m. • Ages 3-5 Dates: June 17, 24 July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26

Storytime participants listen to stories, do fingerplays and flannel board stories, watch a short book-related film and do a craft. Groups of 10 or more need reservations.

Friday Kid Crafters Fridays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. • Ages 6 and up Dates: June 19, 26, July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14

Every Friday, try your hand at a new project. Objects we can make and use from recycled products will be our focus. Register by the Thursday before or until the class is full at 20 participants.

Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m., June 17-Aug. 12 Children's Programming Room

Activities are for independent readers aged 6 and up. You must be a member of Edgewood Summer reading club to participate. Reservations will be taken each week by the Tuesday before or until the class is full.

Express Yourself @ Your Library– Teen Summer Program Sat., June 20 Kick-Off Celebration Saturdays, 12-1 p.m. June 27-Aug. 15 (except for July 4) Children's Programming Room

Teen readers who have completed 5th12th grade can participate. Sign up at the library or complete your registration online. Just click on the Express yourself box on the library's homepage. Reservation for the programming aspects by the Friday before or until the workshops are full. 14 IN Woodland Hills

Children six and up are invited to participate. Thanks to the generosity of Pittsburgh Opera and ACLA children will get a chance to study opera with the use of traveling trunks filled with activities, props and information. Reserve your spot today!

| For Adults Call 412.731.0909 for information or to make reservations.

Toastmasters Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. • June 16, 23, 20

Everyone in a Toastmasters club was once at the level your are now. The environment is friendly and supportive, and the selfpaced program allows you to build confidence with each speaking assignment. Constructive evaluation is the heart of the Toastmasters program. Each time you give a prepared speech, an evaluator will point out strengths and suggest improvements. At first you'll be applauded for your effort; later you'll be applauded for your skill

Back Room Quilters Thursdays, June 18, 25

Informal quilting group. Anyone can come. Bring your lunch and your projects.

AROUND TOWN by Jonathan Barnes

The Kindest Cut It was a sunny Saturday afternoon and I was walking up South Braddock Avenue through Regent Square carrying my gym bag, when one of two musclely guys sitting at a table in front of Clipps Salon and Day Spa asked, “How’s it going?” The guys had been talking with a woman standing outside the salon, and the talkative guy explained they were Pitt football players, signing autographs as part of a Cut-a-thon fundraiser for the police officers. I knew they were speaking of the late Pittsburgh Police officers Kelly, Sciullo and Mayhle, recently killed in the line of duty. I declined the footballers’ offer, since I don’t collect autographs, but I was intrigued. I also was shaggy-haired, way past haircut time, and looking like I was a walking homage to the revival of the musical Hair. So maybe it was the clueless way I asked the woman if the side of South Braddock we were on was Edgewood that spurred her rapid-fire response: “What do you need? What are you looking for? How can I help you?” Clipps Salon owner Angela Malecki said. She was an interesting looking sort, with a shock of her bangs artfully dyed fireplug red, and wearing cool black frame glasses. Malecki, a Regent Square native, saw her opening.

“Why don’t you come in and get your hair cut? We’re having a fundraiser for the police officers,” she encouraged. Again I declined, being sweaty in my workout clothes, having come from my gym, East End Fitness. I told her I’d think about it. Later, I went back for a much needed haircut. Stylist Tiffany Hill did a thorough job of paring back my shaggy mane. We talked about the officers, and the Cut-a-thon. “I just feel so bad for their families. I can’t imagine losing a father, son, or husband,” Hill said. Half of the proceeds of all haircuts scheduled for the fundraiser will go to the officers’ families, Hill explained. Saturday, always a busy day for Clipps, was much busier with an additional 30 appointments (half of which were walk-ins) scheduled for the fundraiser. Clipps employees wore t-shirts honoring the officers. The staff was helped by four volunteer assistants who are students at Bella Cappelli cosmetology school. Veltre’s Pizza donated pizzas, hoagies and other munchies. And six Pitt football players, including Angela’s son, John, who plays right guard for the Panthers, also helped with their salesmanship and celebrity presence. The tragedy so effected the salon’s employees that they were moved to help the families of the

fallen officers, Angela Malecki said. “It hit us close to home. We all just looked at each other and wanted to do something. We’re like family here, and we felt we could do something for these people,” she said. The fundraiser took shape quickly, coming together during the week of the April 18 event. Clipps employees and others papered the windows of Regent Square businesses and homes with fliers advertising the Cut-a-thon. The salon accepted donations from patrons and others for the officers’ families throughout the week of the fundraiser, bringing in $1,000 through that effort. Combined with the funds raised by the Cut-a-thon, the donations amount to a sizable gift. Malecki said she wasn’t entirely surprised by the support, but was thankful for all of it. “Being from Regent Square, I knew this community would help. I think they’ve done nicely,” she said. To contribute to the fund for the families of the slain police officers, send donations to Pittsburgh Fallen Heroes Fund, Greater Pittsburgh Police Federal Credit Union, 1338 Chartiers Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15220. For more information on the fund, call the Greater Pittsburgh Police Federal Credit Union at 412.922.4800, or go to www.pittsburghpolicefcu.com

Markosek Reminds Cyclists and Motorists to Stay Safe Joseph Markosek is asking cyclists and motorists to safely share the road this summer. "We must maintain a commitment to keeping our roads safe for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians," Markosek said. "As the weather gets warmer, more people will be out on their bicycles. It's a good time to remind everyone of a few tips for being considerate and safe while on the road, whether in a vehicle or on a bicycle." Markosek is reminding both motorists and cyclists to be aware of each other on the road. Motorists should stay alert, recognize cyclists’ right to ride on the roadway and to make visual checks for bicyclists by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic. Cyclists are encouraged to ride on the roadway or shared pathways, rather than on sidewalks. They should follow the same rules of the road as other roadway users, use tail lights, wear a helmet every time they ride and make themselves visible on the road. Pennsylvania promotes bicycle safety through the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center and the National Center for Safe Routes to School. Program goals are to ease traffic congestion and keep roads safe for all users. Since 1992, the Federal Highway Administration has provided more than $4.5 billion in aid to states for bicycle and pedestrian safety programs.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Drew’s Family Restaurant, at 50, is still consistently good by Jonathan Barnes

In a time when family-operated restaurants are being replaced by wannabe family-style restaurants that are part of national chains, some unique small businesses stand out even more among the sometimes uninspired dishes being served at local eateries. Drew’s Family Restaurant is one of the best of these exceptions, which probably explains why the establishment is celebrating its fiftieth year in the Countouris family. Started in 1959 by Spiros Countouris and his cousin Dennis, the business originally was known as the Dennis Restaurant, and was located in an aluminum-sided diner building in Forest Hills Plaza. The building was later moved to the current location of the restaurant, 2060 Ardmore Blvd. The old building was demolished in 1985, when Spiros and his sons Jerry and Lou bought the business and built a new modernistic restaurant building and named it Drew’s Family Restaurant. The building’s architecture looks classic, as if it might have been built in the 1960s, but the interior doesn’t have the overabundance of stainless steel that is typically found in restaurants attempting to look classic. The place has many windows, allowing a lot of natural light in. Drew’s also has several seating areas (including an eat-in counter), that enable couples, singles, families and larger groups to dine, while still hosting small parties at a moment’s notice. And that can happen anytime, but is likely to happen during school play season, Jerry said. “Whn school plays let out at St. Maurice or elsewhere, they’ll let out here,” Jerry said, laughing. “I’ll park my butt by the ice cream parlor and make 50 sundaes and milkshakes.” The restaurant’s menu has been carefully developed over the years, through the expertise of the owners and various chefs who’ve worked with them. Many of the 10 cooks and several of the other employees that work at Drew’s have been there so long they are like members of the family, Jerry said. “Lloyd, the breakfast guy, has been here since 1978. Eddie the chef has been here since 1981. Neal the cook/manager has been here since 1986,” Jerry said. Leah, a familiar face who is host to evening patrons at Drew’s, has been with the restaurant since 1972. Pat, one of the waitresses and also a familiar pro to regular patrons of the place, also has worked there since 1972. The consistent performance of the restaurant’s experienced staff is part of its recipe for success. Another ingredient is the consistency of the food. Drew’s is known for its home-made soups, salads, and especially for its breakfasts, which customers can order anytime. Like so much of Drew’s food, breakfasts require some onsite preparation not seen in other 16 IN Woodland Hills

restaurants. The home fries are hand-cut, and the restaurant’s three egg omelets are widely popular among Pittsburgh area foodies. It could be the down-home taste. “For breakfasts, everything’s cooked in the pan, which retains the flavor,” Jerry said. Another key to the success of the restaurant no doubt is the unique entrees it offers, some of which change weekly. Presenting dishes such as sautéed veal, prime rib and other entrees usually only found in higherpriced restaurants, Drew’s customers can affordably enjoy those and other seemingly pricier meals at a reasonable cost. The consistency of product and service required to keep Drew’s the popular destination point that it is can be traced back to the owners’ work ethic. Anytime a customer visits the restaurant, either Lou or Jerry will probably be working, since one or the other works every day at Drew’s. That dedication is almost akin to the dedication required to be an excellent athlete, Jerry said. “The most difficult thing is coming in daily and keeping it up. You have to be on, or you’ll lose customers,” Jerry said. Besides the unique entrees, the comfortable seating, the artwork on the walls by local artist Burton Morris, and the familiar and professional staff, some might come back to visit Drew’s for its desserts, which are without equal. The restaurant’s regionally famous caramel nut rolls are said to be the best in Western Pennsylvania. The rolls, like the restaurant’s homemade cookies, are made fresh daily, and it’s not just the extra pinch of love that the Countouris family restaurant employees put into the batter that makes the rolls so good—it’s actually a special ingredient that does it. “They’re made with croissant dough, which makes them crispier,” Jerry said. Drew’s makes and sells a dozen of the sweet rolls each day. The restaurant also has a regularly changing variety of desserts it offers, including a tiered chocolate cake that probably shouldn’t be eaten all at once, a knock-your-socks-off carrot cheesecake, and a chocolate/vanilla cheesecake, all made from natural ingredients at Keystone Bakery in Monessen. Jill Rubinstein Cohen has been patronizing Drew’s for years, and recently went there with her husband David and their two children on Valentine’s Day. “I love the soups, because they’re always fresh and delicious. And it’s kid-friendly, too,” Rubinstein Cohen said. “The main reason we go there is it’s consistently good.”

T H E W E S T E R N P E N N S Y LVA N I A H O S P I TA L – FORBES REGIONAL CAMPUS

HouseCalls SUMMER 2009

• Assessment, timely diagnosis and treatment of patients with acute coronary syndrome, including heart attacks and unstable angina. • Assessment of patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no apparent cause for their symptoms.

• Process improvement • Personnel, competencies and training • Organizational structure and commitment

• Integration of the hospital’s emergency department with the community emergency medical system.

Although accreditation under the Society of Chest Pain Centers does not require a hospital to feature a dedicated chest pain unit for low risk patients, Forbes has taken the importance of early heart attack care and Continued on page 2.

WEST PENN ALLEGHENY HEALTHINSWoodland YSTEMHills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com One Purpose. One Mission.

Visit The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center on the Web The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus in Monroeville offers state-of-the-art care that’s just a heartbeat from home. The Center also features a comprehensive Web site where you can: • Learn more about the services The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center has to offer. • Take a virtual tour of the facility. • Meet our physicians. • Receive valuable educational information on such topics as angina, early heart attack care, how your heart works and more. • See a listing of upcoming events and information on the Dardanell Center Speaker Series and Speakers Bureau. • View frequently asked questions pertaining to heart attacks. • Contact the Dardanell Center with questions and comments. Visit The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center on the Web at www.forbesheartcenter.org.

Chest Pain Center continued prevention to a higher, more specialized level through its new Chest Pain Evaluation Unit. At Forbes’ Chest Pain Evaluation Unit, patients who present with chest pains at Forbes Emergency Department and are found to be low risk for heart attack are kept in the Unit as observation patients for 23 hours and discharged after further evaluation and testing. The Unit features private rooms located on the same floor as Forbes’ Diagnostic Cardiology Department, where patients receive their specialized cardiac testing.

The Chest Pain Center’s protocol-driven and systematic approach to patient management allows physicians to reduce time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective, and to better monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a coronary event. Such observation helps ensure that a patient is neither sent home too early nor needlessly admitted.

Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States, with 600,000 dying annually of heart disease.

Forbes Regional Campus opened an expanded Emergency Department in 2006 and followed in 2008 with the opening of The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center, which brought open heart surgery to Pittsburgh’s eastern suburbs. “Employees at The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center work together as a team dedicated to process improvement. This accreditation recognizes the success of our collective efforts to assure high quality cardiac care for our patients by following best case practices as outlined by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology,” said Teresa Domit, RN, MSN, Clinical Nurse Specialist. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States, with 600,000 dying annually of heart disease. More than five million Americans visit hospitals each year with chest pain. The goal of the Society of Chest Pain Centers is to signifi-

HouseCalls SUMMER 2009

cantly reduce the mortality rate of these patients by teaching the public to recognize and react to the early symptoms of a possible heart attack, reduce the time that it takes to receive treatment, and increase the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment.

The Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC) is a non-profit international society dedicated to the belief that heart disease can be eliminated as the number one cause of death worldwide. Because time translates to muscle during a heart emergency, the Society bridges cardiology, emergency medicine, and other professions jointly focused upon improving timely, quality care for cardiac patients.

For more information on cardiovascular and cardiothoracic services at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus or to make an appointment with a physician, call 412-DOCTORS (362-8677), or 1-877-284-2000.

The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center symbolizes growth at West Penn Hospital - Forbes Regional Campus — a physical growth that is matched by a growth in the scope and sophistication of services.

THE HEART

OF THE

MATTER

Electrophysiology Helps Specialists Translate Electrical Information from the Heart Itself into Individually Tailored Treatment Plans The Center recently expanded the array of services it offers to include comprehensive electrophysiology services said Bob Werkin, RN, Nurse Manager of the Center’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab. The heart has two basic systems, Werkin explained: a plumbing system made up of arteries and veins through which blood flows, and an electrical system that controls the movements of the heart’s chambers. Electrophysiology, which is a subspecialty of cardiology, focuses on the heart’s electrical system and helps to pinpoint and to treat problems that cause the heart to beat too fast (tachycardias) or too slow (bradycardias). Such disturbances (arrhythmias) can interfere with the heart’s supply of oxygenated blood — and that can kill heart tissue, Werkin said. In a cardiac electrophysiology study, special catheters are positioned strategically in the heart using catheters and wires inserted through the femoral vein. These catheters not only gather important information about how the heart is functioning, but also can be used to induce arrhythmias in a controlled manner. This lets the treatment team gather precise information about the flow of electricity through the heart, identifying exact locations that are misfiring or failing to receive electrical pulses. The procedure is performed by a physician certified in cardiac electrophysiology, Werkin said. The electrophysiology team also includes nurses and technologists with special training in electrophysiology. Werkin praised the hard work cath lab staff undertook to launch the electrophysiology service program at Forbes last fall. “They stepped up for advanced training,” he said. “It took a lot of effort to get this service up and running, but they responded to the needs of our community.” Werkin said that many patients can be treated during the initial visit to the electrophysiology lab. If the electrophysiologist determines that a patient’s arrhythmia should be treated with an implantable cardioverter “We build relationships defibrillator (ICD), a pacemaker or a combination of devices, the procewith patients, and as a dure may be performed immediately.

community hospital, it’s Frederick L. Porkolab, MD, head of electrophysiology services for easier to keep family West Penn Hospital and its Forbes campus, said swift diagnosis and and friends involved in treatment of arrhythmias is key to reducing or avoiding damage to the patient care. We’re heart. Dr. Porkolab, a cardiovascular disease specialist who earned certification as a cardiac electrophysiologist from the American Board of proud to deliver such Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Disease), said, “Heart rhythm probhigh-quality care in a lems have become increasingly important in our community in recent relaxed setting.”

www.wpahs.org

The Heart of the Matter continued

Save the Date Reminder August 2, 2009 Cancer Survivors Day PNC Park Make plans to attend Cancer Survivors Day at PNC Park during the Pittsburgh Pirates vs. the Washington Nationals game. Discounted tickets are available for this event, which is co-sponsored by West Penn Allegheny Health System, the Pittsburgh Pirates and the American Cancer Society. To purchase tickets, please contact Charlene Cheroke at the Pirates at 412-325-4961 or charlene.cheroke@pirates.com.

HouseCalls HouseCalls is a publication of The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus. Articles are not intended to diagnose specific medical conditions which should be addressed by your physician. For more information, please call 412-858-4538. Dawn Gideon, President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Moser, Chief Operating Officer, West Penn Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus Nancy Grover, Director, Communications and Marketing Kara Kessler, Angie Mullig, Contributing Writers Sean Biagi, Designer Chuck Balcik, Photographer ©2009 The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus. An equal opportunity employer. All rights reserved.

HouseCalls

SUMMER 2009

Continued on page 4. years, not only because an older patient population is much more likely to develop them, but also because we have new and important therapies and life-saving interventions that were not available until modern technological advances made them possible.” “Sometimes patients seek treatment because life-threatening arrhythmias have already occurred,” Dr. Porkolab continued. “For other patients, arrhythmias have the potential to cause problems in the future, so it’s critical to recognize these arrhythmias before they become life-threatening. At Forbes, we now have the capabilities to provide in-depth electrophysiology services. We also have the facilities for both pacemaker and ICD implantations, the latter truly life-saving at times and in the appropriate patient.” Werkin said the Forbes’ electrophysiology services program has seen more than 50 patients since its launch late last fall. “At Forbes, we offer a holistic approach to patient care,” he said. “We build relationships with patients, and as a community hospital, it’s easier to keep family and friends involved in patient care. We’re proud to deliver such high-quality care in a relaxed setting.” Electrophysiology services treat problems with the heart’s beat; other techniques address problems with the blood’s flow. Specialists at Forbes now perform carotid stent procedures that improve blood flow from the heart to the brain. In this procedure, a cardiologist that has undergone special training inserts a mesh tube (stent) into a carotid artery that has been narrowed or blocked by the accumulation of plaque — a substance made up of cholesterol, calcium, and fibrous tissue that clings to the artery wall and causes it to narrow and stiffen. Once placed, the stent gently expands inside the artery, allowing more blood to flow through previously blocked areas.

This buildup of plaque (often referred to as “hardening of the arteries” or atherosclerosis), can cause strokes or arterial embolisms that further block blood flow. Stent procedures are an alternative to more aggressive surgery (carotid endarterectomy) to remove blockages and are recommended when a physician believes a patient may not be able to tolerate carotid endarterectomy because of other health problems. Electrophysiological and carotid stent procedures are the most recently introduced therapies at The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center at Forbes Regional Campus. The Center offers advanced cardiovascular and cardiothoracic services in a facility equipped with the latest technologies and staffed with dedicated, skilled specialists. Services at the Center also include: • Open-heart surgery • Cardiac catheterization • Angioplasty • Cardiac stent procedures • Vascular grafting • Specialized in-patient care • Comprehensive follow-up care Dr. Porkolab said plans also are under way to add ablation services (the removal of damaged heart tissue), which are often curative for many arrhythmias, to the growing list of sophisticated cardiac services available at Forbes. “This is a very exciting time in advances in heart rhythm therapies,” Dr. Porkolab said, “and it’s exciting to watch these and other therapies become readily available at Forbes.”

Family Health and Wellness Program Calendar Summer 2009 Call 1-877-284-2000 to register for classes, unless otherwise noted. All classes meet on the campus of The Western Pennsylvania Hospital â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Forbes Regional Campus, unless otherwise noted.

Young Parent and Family Education Programs Early Pregnancy Class

Variations in Labor

This class is designed for expectan t women and their partners during the early Complementing the Childbirth Education Series, class content includes inducmonths of pregnancy. It includes information on nutrition, fetal development, tion of labor, Cesarean delivery, forceps and vacuum extraction, episiotomy, prenatal care and testing, coping with discomforts of pregnancy, pre-term labor, medication and anesthesia and an anesthesiologist as guest speaker. A must prenatal fitness and relaxation exercises. This class is suggested prior to the class to attend for first time parents! 20th week of pregnancy. The rest of your childbirth education classes will Date Day Time follow later in your pregnancy. June 25 Thursday 7 - 9:30 p.m. Date Day Time August 5 Wednesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. July 6 Monday 7 - 9:30 p.m. September 17 Thursday 7 - 9:30 p.m. September 3 Thursday 7 - 9:30 p.m. October 26 Monday 7 - 9:30 p.m. November 16 Monday 7 - 9:30 p.m. December 2 Wednesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. Fee: $25 per couple. Fee: Free

Childbirth Education Series

Delivery and Beyond

These four classes develop knowledge of the childbirth process to help you achieve an optimal birth experience. Content includes hospital orientation and tour, stages of labor and the Lamaze method of childbirth. Classes should be started between the 30th to 33rd weeks of pregnancy.

This class discusses physical and emotional changes postpartum, taking care of yourself, infant care, feeding options, car seat safety and much more. A must class to attend for first time parents!

Date Day Time June 1, 8, 15, & 22 Mondays 7 - 9:30 p.m. June 24, July 1, 8, & 15 Wednesdays 7 - 9:30 p.m. July 7, 14, 21 & 28 Tuesdays 7 - 9:30 p.m. August 3, 10, 17 & 24 Mondays 7 - 9:30 p.m. August 26, September 2, 9 & 16 Wednesdays 7 - 9:30 p.m. September 14, 21, 28 & October 5 Mondays 7 - 9:30 p.m. October 8, 15, 22 & 29 Thursdays 7 - 9:30 p.m. November 3, 10, 17 & 24 Tuesdays 7 - 9:30 p.m. November 30, December 7, 14 & 21 Mondays 7 - 9:30 p.m. Fee: $85 per couple and will only include the four classes listed above in the series.

Childbirth (Lamaze) Education Refresher Those registering for the Lamaze refresher course will attend the third and fourth class in the Childbirth Education Series. You must have delivered in the last five years in order to attend this course. Fee: $85

Date June 29 July 30 September 10 October 19 December 9 Fee: $25 per couple.

Day Monday Thursday Thursday Monday Wednesday

Time 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Breastfeeding Class You and your partner can learn about all the benefits of breastfeeding and how to get breastfeeding off to a great start. A must class to attend if this is your first time breastfeeding. Date July 9 August 19 September 29 November 5 December 16 Fee:$25 per couple.

Day Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Thursday Thursday

Time 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m. 7 - 9:30 p.m.

And Baby Makes Four (Sibling Class) A class to help children ages 3-8 prepare for the birth of a new sibling. Date Day August 8 Saturday November 14 Saturday Fee: $20 per child and $10 per additional child in a family.

Time 10 - 11:30 a.m. 10 - 11:30 a.m..

www.wpahs.org

Young Parent and Family Education Programs continued Girls, Parents and Puberty

Infant/Child CPR for Family and Friends

Parents and adolescent girls (ages 9-12) learn about the emotional and physical changes related to growing up.

An American Heart Association course in infant/child/adult Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), this class is recommended for all and especially parents and those who care for children. Emergency care of a choking infant/child/adult, CPR techniques for infant/child/adult and safety for infant/child are covered. CPR techniques are demonstrated and practiced. This class is designed for family members and friends who DO NOT need a course card.

Date Day Time August 7 Friday 7 - 9:30 p.m. Friday 7 - 9:30 p.m. November 13 Fee: $25 for parent and child and $35 for two children and a parent.

Doctor Dad In this one day workshop, Dads will learn to care for their child's health and safety needs. Topics include: Treating minor cuts and scrapes; when to call the doctor; safety-proofing your home; how to keep your child healthy and much, much more. Please note: Class size is limited to a total of 10 people. Date June 27 August 8 September 26 November 7 December 12 Fee: $40

Day Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday

Time 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Date Day Time June 10 Wednesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. July 20 Monday 7 - 9:30 p.m. August 27 Thursday 7 - 9:30 p.m. September 23 Wednesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. October 20 Tuesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. November 12 Thursday 7 - 9:30 p.m. December 1 Tuesday 7 - 9:30 p.m. Fee: $45/couple; $30/single Class size is limited to a total of 10 people (individuals and/or couples)

The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center Education Series The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center Education Series is a monthly presentation for heart patients and their families that feature demonstrations and question and answer sessions focusing on heart and vascular health.

Dates

Days

Times

June 18

Thursday

Noon - 1 p.m.

July 28

Tuesday

Noon - 1 p.m.

August 20

Thursday

Noon - 1 p.m.

September 17

Thursday

Noon - 1 p.m.

October 22

Thursday

Noon - 1 p.m.

November 19

Thursday

Noon - 1 p.m.

Fee: Free. Space is limited so please call 412-578-1451 to register or for information on upcoming topics.

HouseCalls

SUMMER 2009

Joslin Diabetes Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus The Joslin Diabetes Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus is a comprehensive, personalized diabetes care center that addresses the special needs of people with diabetes. The Joslin program focuses on teaching self-management skills while meeting medical needs. An affiliate of the Joslin Diabetes Center at West Penn Hospital and the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, the center at Forbes Regional Campus is staffed with certified diabetes educators who have experience in complete diabetes management. Each member of the Joslin team, including our physicians, nurses and dieticians are specially trained in diabetes care. To obtain more information about the Joslin Diabetes Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus, please call 412-858-4474.

Diabetes Self-Management Group Education

Individualized Diabetes Self-Management Education

The Diabetes Self-Management Class at the Joslin Diabetes Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus is an eight-hour in-depth education program for people with diabetes and one support person. This series of two classes offers a personalized, interdisciplinary approach to long-term diabetes management by providing nutrition, exercise and diabetes education in a small classroom setting.

In addition to the group education classes available for diabetes selfmanagement, The Joslin Diabetes Center at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus offers individualized diabetes education. This education is one-on-one with a certified diabetic educator and offers individualized instruction on diabetes management and nutrition.

Classes are eight hours — four hours the first week and four hours the second week.

Fee: Patients should check with their insurance provider about fee coverage. Call 412-858-4474 for more information. One-on-one diabetic training is scheduled by appointment only.

Dates

Days

Times

June 4 & 11

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

June 6 & 13

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

Diabetes Support Group

June 10 & 17

Wednesday

8 a.m. - Noon

June 16 & 23

Tuesday

1 - 5 p.m.

July 7 &14

Tuesday

8 a.m. - Noon

July 11 & 18

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

July15 & 22

Wednesday

1 - 5 p.m.

July 23 & 30

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

The purpose of the Diabetes Support Group is to assist people with diabetes in leading a productive life through education, discussion of problems, demonstration of new equipment and products, improvement of lifestyle, sharing ideas, knowledge and recreation. A different speaker attends each meeting and talks about one aspect of diabetes. The Diabetes Support Group is open to people with diabetes and their spouses or other support persons.

August 1 & 8

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

August 5 & 12

Wednesday

8 a.m. - Noon

August 18 & 25

Tuesday

1 - 5 p.m.

August 20 & 27

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

September 5 & 12

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

September 8 & 15

Tuesday

1 - 5 p.m.

September 9 & 16

Wednesday

8 a.m. - Noon

September 17 & 24

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

October 3 & 10

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

October 6 & 13

Tuesday

1 - 5 p.m.

October 14 & 21

Wednesday

8 a.m. - Noon

October 22 & 29

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

November 4 & 11

Wednesday

8 a.m. - Noon

November 7 & 14

Saturday

8 a.m. - Noon

November 12 & 19

Thursday

1 - 5 p.m.

November 17 & 24

Tuesday

1 - 5 p.m.

Dates

Days

Times

September 21

Monday

2 - 4 p.m.

October 19

Monday

2 - 4 p.m.

November 16

Monday

2 - 4 p.m.

Fee: Free. For information call 412-858-4474. Registration is not required.

Fee: Patients should check with their insurance provider about fee coverage. For information and to register, please call 412-858-4474. www.wpahs.org

Bereavement Support Groups Support groups bring people together to share their thoughts and feelings and to help them through difficult times. Don’t do it alone — call to find out how our experienced staff members can help. There is no fee to attend. To register, please call 412-325-7251. Please note that the group sessions listed below are held each month on the same weekly schedule.

General Groups (all ages and types of loss):

Adult Children Who Have Lost Parents:

Third Thursday of each month, 7 - 9 p.m., The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus, 2570 Haymaker Rd. (Monroeville)

Third Wednesday of each month, 7 - 9 p.m., Jewish Community Center, 5738 Forbes Ave. (Squirrel Hill)

Young Widows and Widowers (up to age 50) Second Thursday of each month, 7 - 9 p.m., The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus, 2570 Haymaker Rd. (Monroeville) Fourth Monday of each month, 5:30 - 7 p.m., North Hills Youth Ministry Counseling Center, 802 McKnight Park Dr. (Ross Township)

Middle Agers (50’s and 60’s) First Wednesday of each month, 7 - 9 p.m., Sixth Presbyterian Church, corner of Forbes Ave. and Murray Ave. (Squirrel Hill) Parents Who Have Lost Children (children up to 21 years old) First Tuesday of each month, 7 - 9 p.m., The Children’s Institute (chapel), Shady Avenue, Squirrel Hill.

Special Programs American Cancer Society Look Good - Feel Better! This class is open to women who are anticipating or receiving cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation. An experienced cosmetologist from the American Cancer Society will help select appropriate scarves and wigs and provide tips about makeup during treatment. A free makeup kit will be given to each participant. Classes are held each month. For dates and times, call 1-800-ACS (227)-2345. You also may call the American Cancer Society at 1-888-227-5445 for information or to register (you must pre-register for this class). Information is also available online at www.cancer.org.

Fee: Classes are free

Seniors for Safe Driving The American Automobile Association offers this two-session course as a driver improvement program for mature operators 55 and over. This is a driver-awareness and behavior modification program. Classroom instruction only - there is NO on the road driving or classroom testing. Course benefits include becoming a safer driver and receiving a minimum five-percent discount on your auto insurance as mandated by Pennsylvania state law. Dates

Days

Times

June 25 & 26

Thursday & Friday 5:30 - 9 p.m.

December 2

Wednesday

5:30 - 9 p.m.

Fee: $12/two classes Instructor: Certified AAA Instructor To register, please call 1-800-559-4880.

A Step in the Right Direction A one-hour educational session for people planning hip or knee replacement. Speakers include nurses from orthopedics and rehab, a physical and occupational therapist, and a social services representative. Speakers will discuss pre- and post-op care and discharge planning. All attendees will receive an informational book titled Your Guide to Total Joint Replacement. Free parking is available for attendees. For more information or to register, please call 1-877-284-2000. Time: Every Wednesday, 1 - 2 p.m.

Fee: Free Location: The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus, Joint and Spine Center - 5 North, Patient Lounge (please use the Visitor’s Entrance on the upper level of the Hospital – located near Lot C).

HouseCalls

SUMMER 2009

Volunteers Needed Volunteering is a wonderful way for people to help others, make new friends and explore possible health careers. Volunteers usually come one day a week for four hours. Generations interact and work together to accomplish amazing things at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus including greeting patients and their families at our Emergency Department and assisting Dietary and other departments with patient needs. Volunteers tell us what day and time they are available and if they want to work with patients, the public, or prefer clerical work, and we match them with an assignment. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or know someone who is, please contact Volunteer Services at 412-858-2578.

2430 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15221 | 412.731.1300 | www.whsd.k12.pa.us

S UPERINTENDENT ’ S M ESSAGE Photo by Jack Ruskin

Dear Members of the Woodland Hills School District Community,

Walter M. Calinger, Ph.D. Woodland Hills School District Superintendent

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL BOARD First Row: Dr. R. Lott, Vice-President Mr. F. Kuhn, President Mrs. M. Messina, Mrs. C. Lowery Second Row: Mrs. C. Filiak, Mr. R. Clanagan, Mr. R. Tomasic, Mr. R. Driscoll Missing from Photo: Dr. W. Driscoll

A Word to Parents and Students The 2008-09 school year will be remembered as the “Comeback Year” for the Woodland Hills School District. By virtually all accounts, our schools were safer, our scores were higher and everyone from students to teachers to parents to administrators to members of the community felt a degree of pride that some thought had been lost forever. But this was only a start. The 2009-2010 school year will also be remembered as the “Come Back Year.” Starting next fall, we will welcome students back to Woodland Hills who left for various reasons. Some are returning because of the changes instituted this year. Some are returning because of the unparalleled academic opportunities we offer, such as earning an associate’s degree from the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)—FREE! — and a high school diploma at the same time. Some of our younger students applied for, and won a lottery slot, at our new Woodland Hills Academy. Some of the students who used to be sent out of the District to alternative educational options will come back to alternative schooling within the District at the High School. And when these students return, they will find a school district that competes successfully with other school options. Simply put, we offer: · Superior faculty · Superior academics · Superior music, art, and theater · Superior athletics · Superior college and post-secondary counseling No other school can offer the complete array of options that Woodland Hills can. Those of us who have been here, know that. Those of you who are discovering—or re-discovering—the value of a Woodland Hills education, I hope you will take a moment and drop me a note, or give me a call, and tell me what you’ve found. A Word to Our Faculty At the beginning of the year, I made a commitment to you that we would have safe, secure campuses. That we would work together to offer a challenging curriculum for our students. And perhaps most importantly, that we would create an environment where a child’s most precious asset, the capacity to dream, would be encouraged and nurtured.

You have done your jobs well. Your work is reflected in the achievements of our students and in the awards you’ve won. I know your commitment to our success is high. It was mirrored, in part, in the more than 60 applications I received to be part of the Woodland Hills Academy faculty. In return, I want to say simply this: I will continue to do everything I can to attract more students and families back to the District. If we succeed in increasing enrollment next year and in the years to come, then the question will not be whether we have too many teachers, but whether we have too few. A Word to the Board Before this year closes, I want to thank publicly the Board of Education for their commitment, and sometimes courage, in supporting my direction for this District. Change is never easy. But I hope the members of the Woodland Hills community appreciate how this Board has worked tirelessly to make countless decisions with only one objective in mind: providing a superior education for our children. Some decisions required spending a lot of money quickly, such as installing our video surveillance system in just a matter of weeks. Some decisions required a lot of thought, and even leaps of the imagination, such as giving the green light to open our Woodland Hills Academy, extend hours at the High School and affiliate with CCAC. Throughout, you have served our community and out students extremely well. You are hearing words of praise from the Governor and Education Secretary on down to the County Executive and County District Attorney. Parents and community supporters have added their words of praise as well. They are well deserved. As this first year closes, I have never been more delighted to be a Superintendent. And next year at this time I look forward to reporting even greater success from the “Comeback” and “Come Back” school district of Allegheny County—Woodland Hills. Sincerely,

Walter M. Calinger, Ph.D. Superintendent

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Introducing the Woodland Hills Academy Building On The Past, Shaping The Future Next fall 280 students, Grades K-6, will be the first classes at the new Woodland Hills Academy. The Academy will operate in the former East Junior High School, Turtle Creek. (For those of you old enough to remember, this was the original Turtle Creek High School, built in 1922.) This summer and throughout the year, it will undergo extensive remodeling and reconstruction to get ready for 280 students, 14 homeroom teachers, five additional teachers, plus principal Mr. Reginald Hickman, and support staff. The renovations include technology upgrades for wireless laptop use, SMART boards in all classrooms, fresh coats of paint throughout and the reopening of the swimming pool. The library, which was located on the second floor, will be relocated to the first floor for easier public access. The District with help from the municipality would like to keep the facility open for community use in the evenings. The Academy’s mission is to blend the best elements of private education with the inherent benefits of public education. It will also serve as a best-practices incubator for curriculum, methods and other innovations that can be incorporated across the rest of the school district. Superintendent Walter Calinger describes the Woodland Hills Academy as “a model for the future of K-12 education in Allegheny County. Starting August 3, 2009, Academy students will get the kind of education that others may sell, but do not deliver. We will show that every student has the ability to learn at the highest levels. We plan to deliver the best that Woodland Hills has to offer and then, in the words of Chef Emeril Legasse, we’re ‘kicking it up a notch.’” “Judging from the overwhelming response from both parents and teachers, I think people know we’re onto something very good. And just so everyone is clear, we are NOT siphoning resources away from the rest of the District. We will take the lessons from the Academy and implement them across the District in years to come,” added Dr. Calinger.

Q&A How will the Academy be different from other K-6 classes at our current elementary schools?

Academy students will have a longer school day. Each student will have an individual instruction program developed specifically for him or her. They will have 90 minutes of science and language arts, and 60 minutes of math daily. Each child will have daily access to a laptop computer. Every child will learn how to swim. Both choral and instrumental music will be taught. Students will wear uniforms. The parents or guardians of each student will also sign a contract committing themselves to their student’s success. (This is critical because the student’s continued enrollment is based, in part, on the parent or guardian living up to his or her part of the agreement.) How were students selected?

Parents of all students living in the Woodland Hills School District were invited to submit an application. More than 600 applications were received by the April 24 deadline. Students were selected by a public lottery on May 6, 2009. Names were selected at random by a computer. If the selected student had siblings and they were also entered into the lottery, they were also eligible to attend the Academy. There will be approximately 40 students per grade, divided into two classes. Were all students eligible to apply?

Yes. As long as they live in one of the communities that are part of the Woodland Hills School District, they could apply for the lottery. Even if they were enrolled in another school (parochial, charter, private), they were eligible. Is there any charge to attend the Academy?

No. However, students will be asked to purchase their uniforms. Laptop computers will be provided free of charge. What is the school year? School day?

School starts on Monday, August 3, 2009. What is the parent/guardian contract?

Every parent or guardian must sign a contract committing him- or herself to the active involvement in their child’s education. This includes attending all teacher conferences, monitoring homework assignments, attending parent workshops, and supporting Academy activities. Will there be special bus transportation to the Academy?

All students will be eligible for District busing.

IN Woodland Hills

Second grader Joshua Paul and third grader Hayley Cunningham , students at Wilkins Primary, were nominated by their teachers to receive this coveted award.

Woodland Hills High School seniors Cydnei Mallory and Dan Chapman were recognized for their school spirit and positive character traits.

MAY

APRIL

MARCH

FEBRUARY

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Dickson Intermediate fourth grade students Austin Cale and Mya Alford were chosen as representatives of the best students at their school.

Fallen Heros Fund In an effort to show support for our law enforcement community, the members of the Senior Student Leadership Class, and members of the Woodland Hills Rifle Team under the direction of Mr. Matt Rodrigues and the High School School Resource Officer Steve Shaulis set about the process of garnering donations for the Fallen Heros Fund. The students collected loose change in the cafeteria during the lunch periods. With the support of Mr. Thomas Crone, donations were encouraged at the performances of the Woodland Hills High School spring musical, The Wizard of Oz. The other District schools also assisted in the collection process. Through their hard work and dedication the students were proudly able to donate $4,625.00 to the Fallen Heroes Fund. Many thanks to the Student Leadership Class of 2009, the Woodland Hills Rifle Team, the musical cast and crew, Mr Rodrigues, Mr. Crone, Officer Shaulis, and the High School and District staff and administration for their support.

Shaffer Primary second graders Matthew Ward and Maniya Mitchell embodied the attributes of leadership and compassion.

Best Baseball Season EVER! This year’s baseball team had an outstanding year under the tutelage of second year Head Coach Tim Banner. The team had its best section record ever! (10-2); the FIRST SECTION TITLE SINCE 2000; and qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs for the first time since 2002. Coach Banner was chosen as the CoCoach of the Year at the WHHS Athletics Awards Program on May 27. Senior shortstop and lead-off batter Sean Samsa was selected to the WPIAL Coaches ALL STAR FIRST TEAM. Sophomore Brian Tougher was recognized as “Athlete of the Week” by the Tribune-Review. The Wolverine Baseball Team was ranked fourth in the WPIAL with an overall record of 12-6. Special thanks to a dedicated band of parent boosters who organized and raised money for a trip to South Carolina for spring practice. They also produced a first-class media guide and treated the team and staff to an end of the year picnic. Congratulations to the staff, team and parents for an exciting year. IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Carson Scholars

WHHS Teacher Receives National Science Teacher Award; Only Pennsylvania Recipient

IN Woodland Hills

Woodland Hills Junior High School student Kennedy Garth and Dickson Intermediate student Justin McCord have been awarded $1,000 scholarships from the Carson Scholars Fund. Both students were presented with their awards at the scholarship banquet on April 19th at the Omni William Penn Hotel. The Carson Scholars Fund was founded in 1994 by world-renowned Johns Hopkins pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin S. Carson and his wife, Candy. The vision for the program came from the Carson’s observation that many school display cases were filled with large trophies paying tribute to athletic achievements, while honor students traditionally received a pin or certificate. After reading a research study stating that students in the United States ranked 21 out of 22 countries—next to the bottom of the list—in science and math, the Carson’s felt compelled to take action.

Their concept was simple, yet unique. Students in grades 4-11 who had at least a 3.75 grade point average and demonstrated strong humanitarian qualities could apply for $1,000 scholarships. If a student won a scholarship, it would be invested for his or her college education until graduation from high school and they would be designated as Carson Scholars. Winners could reapply annually as long as they maintained their GPA. The awards would be paid directly to the four-year accredited institution of higher learning, on their behalf. There is much more about Dr. Carson’s life story and the program he created to help students at the Carson Scholars Fund website. We appreciate the distinction that Kennedy and Justin have brought to the Woodland Hills School District.

Misty Thurber, a 10th grade chemistry teacher at Woodland Hills High School, was awarded the Maitland P. Simmons Memorial Award for new teachers. The Maitland P. Simmons Memorial Award for New Teachers provides selected K-12 teachers in their first five years of teaching with funds to attend the annual national conference. Ms. Thurber is one of thirteen teachers to receive this award nation-wide and is the only teacher representing Pennsylvania. In addition to her national award, PA State Representative Paul Costa obtained a Citation from the PA House of Representatives for Ms. Thurber’s achievement. Ms. Thurber received her NSTA Award at a special banquet and ceremony at the 57th National Conference on Science Education in New Orleans last month. The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning. The Teacher Award Program honors K-12 teachers, professors, principals, and other educators for their outstanding achievement and innovative programs in science education. “NSTA awardees represent the best and brightest in science education,” said Page Keeley, president, NSTA. “We congratulate these outstanding educators and principals for their lifelong commitment to science education and for their innovation and creative approach to teaching our students science. Ms. Thurber was recognized at the Woodland Hills School District Board Meeting on April 8, 2009 for bringing distinction to herself and the School District.

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

WHHS Senior Represented Pittsburgh Region at International Science and Engineering Fair Matthew Stoffregen, a senior at Woodland Hills High School, was one of three individual winners chosen to represent our area at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Reno, Nevada. Matthew’s presentation of his project, “Erdos’s Conjecture,” at the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair earned him the trip to Reno. The Intel ISEF is the premiere science competition in the world exclusively for students in grades 9–12. Several of Matt’s classmates at Woodland Hills also competed in the Pittsburgh Regional Fair. Ellen Bachy, Timothy DeVita, Taylor Gladys, and Nathan Thiem all participated in the competition. Taylor earned an honorable mention from the US Army and Matthew earned 2nd place in the Math and Computer Science Category. Charles J. Vukotich, Jr., a Senior Project Manager in the Graduate School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh served as a judge at the Regional Fair and was on the ISEF review team. He said, “[Being chosen to go to the ISEF] is a great accomplishment, especially considering how tough the competition is. I know that our ISEF judges are very excited about the three people who will represent the Pittsburgh region. There were only two students budgeted to go to Reno; but we guaranteed the extra money for a third to go because we felt that all three candidates were particularly strong. The Woodland Hills School District should be justifiably proud of this accomplishment.”

The World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh

WHHS Senior Receives Donald E. Farr Award from World Affairs Council

Woodland Hills High School senior Gina Del Rio has been chosen as the recipient of the World Affairs Council’s prestigious Donald E. Farr Award for 2009. This award is given annually to a student who demonstrates exceptional interest in world affairs. The Education Committee of the Council voted unanimously to give the award to Gina. The President of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, Dr. Schuyler Foerster, commended Gina for “her outstanding interest in international affairs, her participation in Council programs, and her genuine efforts to understand the issues that shape the world in which she will live and work.” Dr. Foerster continued, “Considering the thousands of students served by the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh during a typical program year, Gina has every reason to feel honored for having merited this special recognition.” Gina was presented with the award at a Council luncheon at the Duquesne Club on Thursday, May 14, 2009. The guest speaker was Ambassador Mark Grossman, former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, U.S. Department of State. A plaque was also presented to the school to commemorate Gina’s achievement. Woodland Hills High School has had a long and successful relationship with the World Affairs Council. Every year our students participate in Council programs and the Council has chosen to present several of its international forums at the WHHS auditorium. Every year, WHHS students have successfully applied for and received scholarships for summer study abroad funded by the World Affairs Council. This year, 60 students from the High School participated in the monthly programs. The Donald E. Farr Award was established in 1966 by the World Affairs Council to honor exemplary performance in connection with Council school programs. Gina was presented with a framed citation and an award in the amount of $150, made available by the Council’s Education Fund.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Essay Contest Winner

Science Team Qualifies for State Finals 6th Year in a Row The Woodland Hills High School Science Olympiad Team is going to the State Finals for the 6th Consecutive Year. Congratulations to the students and their coaches for an excellent job The team earned 5th place overall at the regional competition held at California University of Pennsylvania in the spring. Individual medal earners included: Jonathan Archer (1st place medal), Peter Rodrigues (1st place medal), Anna Rubin (2nd place medal), Allie Solomon (2nd place medal), Matthew Stoffregen (1st place medal and 2nd place medal), Nathan Thiem (1st place medal and 2nd place medal), and Timothy Trimble (2 2nd place medals). Other members of the team are Margaret Baker, Stephen Baker, Candice Fascetti, Naytasha Fletcher, Jonathan Kelly, Colin Letson, Mario Scaramouche, and Eileen Wu. The team advanced to the state competition held at Juniata College on May 1st. Gifted Coaches Mrs. Blasi and Mr. Snyder and the entire Science Olympiad team would like to extend a thank you to the following coaches: Mr. Kowinsky, Mr. Naill, Mrs. Nyapas, Ms. Rosenberger, Mr. Schuller, Ms. Sisk, Mr. Steinmetz, Ms. Thurber, and Ms. Wolfson. In addition, a big thank you is also extended to all the Science and Math teachers at WHHS, because without the meaningful learning experiences that happen in class each day, Science Olympiad would not be possible.

Liam Bachtell, 6th grader at Dickson Intermediate School, won second place for the 2009 Dr. Helen S.

Faison Racial Justice Student Essay Contest sponsored by the YWCA. The YWCA received 200 essays from sixth graders throughout the greater Pittsburgh region. As winner of the sixth grade second place award, Liam was recognized at a reception and award ceremony at the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh on April 15. He was awarded a $1000 savings bond. Excellent job, Liam. The entire Woodland Hills Community is proud of you!

After many months of preparation, eight WHJH students competed in the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair (PRSEF). Eighth graders Janais Jackson and Tshchainia James and seventh graders Travis Blazina, Jessica Durmis, Makayla Hudson, Khance Johnson, Kristina Lewis, and Daniel Mayhak were all participating for the first time in this exciting event. All of the students represented Woodland Hills very well. Daniel won a sponsor award from US Steel for his project entitled “Rust Removers.” Not only did these students have the experience of competing but they also learned how to develope an idea, prepare and complete an experiment and write a research paper to explain their work. Great job!

Congratulations to the 2009 Woodland Hills Junior High Academic Challenge team: Brian LeMaster, Nathan Huang, David Morgan, Danny Herrle and Jordan Potter. These five 8th grade students competed against nine local teams at McKeesport Jr. High on Thursday, April 23rd and brought home the First Place Award! These young men earned this award with a lot of hard work and by challenging themselves to excel. Kudos to them! Both of these teams were coached and prepared by Junior High Gifted Coordinator Beth Smyder. Lyndsey Love also coached the students for the Academic Challenge. Congratulations to them, too.

IN Woodland Hills

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

2009-10 School District Calendar August 2009 August 25

First Day of School for Students

September 2009 September 7

Labor Day – No School

September 21

Open House – High School

September 21

Open House – High School

September 22

Open House – Junior High School

September 23

Open House – Elementary School

September 25

Clerical Day – No School for Students

October 2009 October 12

In Service Day – No School for Students

November 2009 November 12

Parent Teacher Conferences (PreK-12) – No School for Students

November 26-30

Thanksgiving Holiday Break

December 2009 December 21-31

Winter Break

January 2010 January 1

Winter Break

January 2

School Resumes

January 18

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

February 2010 February 15

President’s Day – No School for Students (or Snow Day Make-Up)

Woodland Hills High School Going “7 to 7” in ’09 This fall, Woodland Hills High School students will be able to take advantage of longer hours to catch up or move further ahead with their studies. In addition to the regular daytime schedule beginning at 7:15 AM, classes will also be scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students who have been suspended will not sit at home, or worse “hang out” on the street. They will continue to come to school, but at a different time from the regularly scheduled students. This alternative will allow suspended students to continue their studies and keep up with their classes. The “7 to 7” day will also allow students who want to accelerate their high school studies by taking an advanced or extra class. Senior High School Principal Dan Stephens said, “What an extended day does is create a feeling of community. The parents and students know people care about them and want them to succeed. We’re trying to meet the needs of every student.” Superintendent Walter Calinger added, “We want students who have been suspended to continue their studies and remain involved while serving their suspensions. We also want to help those students who want to take extra classes. In some cases, these early morning and late afternoon classes may make it easier to participate in extracurricular activities or support part-time jobs.” Principal Stephens has already experienced success implementing this type of program in other schools where he worked. He knew this approach would benefit not only Woodland Hills students but also staff. “This year we are spending almost $200,000 to educate students away from District schools,” explained Superintendent Walter Calinger. “Our goal with the extended day at the High School is to bring back as many of our students as we can. Let’s teach our students in our schools. Let’s bring these students back to be taught by our teachers.” “Not only does this make financial sense, it has a positive impact on increasing our staffing numbers. And the students benefit, too, because our teachers are better at teaching. The quality of education in our schools is better than the options available to our students who are being sent outside of the District.”

March 2010 March 18

In Service Day – No School for Students

March 19

Parent Teacher Conferences (PreK-12) – No School for Students

April 2010 April 1-5

Spring Break (or Apr. 1 & 5 Snow Day Make-Up)

May 2010 May 12

Kennywood Picnic – No School

May 31

Memorial Day – No School

June 2010 June 7

Last Day of School for Students/Graduation Ceremonies

Elementary School Reconfiguration for the 2009-10 School Year On March 11, 2009, the School Board of the Woodland Hills School District voted to approve the reconfiguration of its six elementary schools from three K -3 and three 4-6 schools into K- 6 schools. On May 18, 2009, the School Board voted to close Rankin Intermediate School. Beginning in the 2009-10 school year, students will be enrolled in five District K-6 elementary schools: Edgewood, Dickson, Fairless, Shaffer, and Wilkins. Below is a listing of the schools and the communities they will serve in the new configuration. Edgewood: Braddock Hills, Edgewood, Forest Hills, Rankin Dickson: Swissvale Fairless: North Braddock Shaffer: Churchill, Turtle Creek Wilkins: Braddock, Chalfant, East Pittsburgh, Wilkins Twp. IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Allegheny County Champs! The High School Mock Trial Team won the Allegheny County Championship again this year. They earned a spot at the State Mock Trial Championship for the third consecutive year. Woodland Hills was one of only 12 high school teams that competed at the state level in Harrisburg.They made it to the State semi-finals and finished third in the State out of 316 teams. This year’s mock trial case centered on an employer’s potential liability for the negligent actions of an employee. The case was written by Jonathan A. Grode, a 2008 graduate of the Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law. This year, 267 high schools competed in the district and regional levels of Pennsylvania’s mock trial competition—one of the largest in the nation. Following the local competitions, 12 high school teams advanced to the state mock trial championships. The seniors on this year’s WHHS team had a most remarkable run. Their record at the County level was impeccable. In the last four years of mock trial experience, Woodland Hills lost only one trial and that was three years ago in the Allegheny County Semi-Finals. Since then, the current seniors have been undefeated at the County level, winning a total of 16 straight trials. What an impressive string of victories this team has earned! Hearty congratulations to the 2009 WHHS Mock Trial Team and their coaches for their performance in the courtroom. Members of the team include: Gina DelRio, Naytasha Fletcher, Matthew Stoffregen, Nathan Theim, Margaret Baker, and Peter Rodrigues as attorneys; Megan Bullen, Cassidy Adkins, Stephen Baker, and Amanda Stumme as witnesses; Vincent LeDonne as time keeper; and Patrick Morgan and Donovan Smith as alternates. Coaching the team were Gifted teacher and coach Heather Nyapas and attorneys Jamie Glasser and Lena Henderson. Retired WHHS Gifted teacher Rich Stanczak returned to help coach the team.

32 IN Woodland Hills

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

The Tradition of Winning Starts Here ... Following on the heels of the Allegheny County Mock Trail Championship win by their older counterparts at the High School, the first ever Woodland Hills Elementary Mock Trial was held on March 30 at 6:30 PM in the Dickson Intermediate Gymnasium. The defense team (top) from Fairless and Rankin Schools defended their case (Hansel and Gretel Schmidt vs. the State of Pennsylvania) against the prosecution team from Dickson Intermediate (bottom). Students from the High School Mock Trial team served as the jury. District Justice Nate Firestone presided over the case. The students met after school for three months to prepare for the trial under the direction of their teachers, Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. Schollaert. In the end, the jury found in favor of the defense. Alex Havrilla was voted best lawyer for the defense and Brendan Howell was voted best witness for the defense. Liam Bachtell was voted best lawyer for the prosecution and Katelyn Joynt was voted best witness for the prosecution. Both teams showed poise and confidence in their first Mock Trial experience and they received many compliments from their High School counterparts. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High School team left big shoes to fill, but if the students who competed in the first ever elementary mock trial continue to pursue their interest in the law, those shoes will be filled in a big way.

Woodland Hills High School Girls Compete at PIAA State Swimming Championships

Four girls from the Woodland Hills High School swim team qualified to participate at the PIAA state swimming championships, held at Bucknell University on March 11-14, 2009. They achieved qualifying times during the recent WPIAL competition held at University of Pittsburgh. The 200 freestyle relay team of Sara Rinsma, Liz Rubash, Giovanna Bodner and Chelsea Stein qualfied for state-level competition, and Chelsea Stein also qualified for two individual eventsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the 50 and 100 freestyle. The girls were accompanied to state championships by their coaches, Taz Greiner and Ann Marie Rodrigues. While at state championships, the 200 freestyle relay team set a WHHS school record with a time of 1:38.73 and qualified to participate in the consolation finals. The girls swam a great race at finals, and placed as the 16th best 200 freestyle relay team in the state!

With a time of 24.28 in the 50 freestyle preliminaries, Chelsea Stein also qualified to participate in the consolation finals. During the finals race, Chelsea set another WHHS school record with a time of 24.23, which is the 13th best time in the state. On the second day of competition, Chelsea participated in the 100 freestyle, posting a time of 54.25 during preliminaries. This race propelled Chelsea to the position of the 28th best 100 freestyler in the state of Pennslyvania! We would like to congratulate and recognize the girls for all their hard work and the dedication that they demonstrated throughout the season and all year long. We would also like to thank their coaches: Head Coach Taz Greiner and Asst. Coach Anne Marie Rodrigues for their support and a job well done!

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Helping Each Other Become Leaders Since the beginning of the 2008-09 school year, students at the high school have been participating in a program that is as innovative, unique, and successful as the man who leads it. It’s a leadership and team building program and the gentleman who runs it is Mr. Robert Christie. Bob came to the Woodland Hills School District with Dr. Richard Wallace, the head of the Educational Leadership Initiative. When Dr. Wallace was Superintendent of the Pittsburgh City Public Schools, he had the opportunity to personally experience Bob’s work and his success working with students. Dr. Wallace saw the enormous positive effect that Bob Christie’s program had on his District. Bob describes the program he has set up at Woodland Hills High School as a nontraditional outdoor adventure program. “What I try to do throughout the year is build relationships with the students and have the students forge relationships with each other that promote trust, self-confidence, and mutual respect. Once students from different neighborhoods and communities experience physically demanding challenges together, they are more likely to see their fellow students in a different light—in a more positive light. They can actually become friends. The experiences they have on our trips give them the selfconfidence to act as leaders in the school, in the hallways, and in the classrooms. Teachers, administrators, and fellow students start to see real behavior and attitude changes and it has a beneficial effect on the school community.” Since October, Bob has been taking different teams of selected students out to McConnell’s Mills State Park, about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh. The purpose of the trips is to promote social teambuilding skills; model appropriate and positive behavior; ensure the safety of self and others; and demonstrate leadership and initiative skills. 34 IN Woodland Hills

Some of the activities that Bob utilizes in the program are: group cooperative and trust games; compass hikes; adventure hikes that require some rock climbing and rappelling and whitewater rafting. There are two overnight trips per group that require camping skills. Demand to participate in the program has grown as the school year has proceeded, but selection is a privilege and inappropriate behavior in school can result in a student losing this privilege. Program participation is considered an honor and the participants are held in high regard. High School Principal Dan Stephens summed up the benefits he has seen over the course of the school year from the program. “It’s exciting to see kids from different communities forge bonds and really communicate with each other on a personal level. I have seen a difference in the hallways of the school, how the students behave and how they relate to one another. It’s amazing. Bob is a real asset to our District and we’re lucky to have him and this program.”

It’s all about life after high school graduation! Ninth grade students in the Woodland Hills School District are being asked, “What do you plan to be doing with your life in 15 years?” The reason for this question is to start 9th graders thinking about going to college or continuing their education after high school. Students need to start making plans and take the steps necessary to achieve their life’s dreams early in their high school careers. The Pennsylvania College Access Challenge Grant Program (CACGP) is working with Junior High and Senior High School students and their parents to help them learn about the college preparation and application process. Two full-time grant funded staff members, housed in the College Access Office located next to the library in the High School, are working with District staff to create a “college culture.” The goal of the College Access Challenge Grant is to create a mind-set where students, teachers, parents, and staff are all working toward the common goal of preparing students for postsecondary education. This preparation will ultimately place our students on track to accomplish their goals and dreams. Beginning in 9th grade, eligible students are provided support in literacy and mathematics through tutoring and mentoring services. The purpose of this intervention program is to bring students who are two or more grade levels below up to where they should be. The goal is to get students prepared to take a more rigorous, college-bound curriculum. They will also be advised on postsecondary planning and course selection. Students will be monitored to ensure that they complete core college preparatory courses and their deficits in mathematics and literacy are erased. Why is ninth grade so important? “Developing a strong academic base in ninth grade will provide the cornerstone for success in high school, success in college, and ultimately success in life,” says Joyce Fratangelo, the Academic Consultant for the CACGP program. Mrs. Fratangelo coordinates the academic support (tutoring) and mentoring programs for 9th graders. She works closely with CACGP Campus Coordinator Kara Conaway on programs designed to prepare 8th graders for high school. Both staffers can be contacted in the College Access Office at 412-244-1100, ext. 5139 or ext. 5160. A host of activities and events are on the schedule. A Walk for Success Rally was held at the High School on May 15. Parents and students gathered to learn about the College

Access Program and the college preparation services available to them. Information was shared, dinner was served, and prizes were awarded. The highlight of the evening was when parents and students signed a covenant with the PA CACGP committing to their participation in activities that support high school graduation, college preparation and college acceptance. A Summer Bridge Program is being planned for June 8-12. This one-week camp is a high school preparation program. During the final day of the program, invited students will participate in two College Tours. During the week, participants will attend seminars on Study Skills, Test Taking Strategies, Reading Techniques, Diversity Training, Mathematics, and a “Science Rocks” assembly. Students will also spend a day at Camp Guyasuta developing a team spirit and testing their physical strength on the rope and rock courses. On June 18 and 19, Ms. Conaway, will be taking two groups of rising seniors to a College Forum at La Roche College where they will spend a day learning about and experiencing life on a college campus. The Pennsylvania College Access Grant Program works with students who are economically disadvantaged, academically behind, and who are first-generation collegebound. The PCAGP is a partnership of the PA Department of Education (PDE), Project GRAD USA (GRAD USA) and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Woodland Hills was chosen as the only school in Western Pennsylvania to participate in this grant program, to date. Project GRAD (Graduation Really Achieves Dreams) USA is a national nonprofit education model serving over 121,000 economically disadvantaged youth in 205 schools across the nation. GRAD’s mission is to ensure a quality public education for these students so that high school graduation and college entrance rates increase dramatically. Working together with the PA Department of Education, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, and Woodland Hills School District, GRAD USA looks forward to the success of many previously under-represented future college graduates from Woodland Hills.

Pennsylvania College Access Challenge Grant Program

Academic Consultant Joyce Fratangelo and Campus Coordinator Kara Conaway

The goal of the College Access Challenge Grant is to create a mind-set where students, teachers, parents, and staff are all working toward the common goal of preparing students for post-secondary education.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Woodland Hills is Going to the Dogs! Some mighty small dogs have brought some mighty nice publicity to the Woodland Hills School District. Animal trainer Bill Berlotti and his delightful Cairn terrier stars, Loki and Nigel quickly became media darlings when they visited Pittsburgh to train with the WHHS student actors in our spring musical, The Wizard of Oz. Since both dogs will be playing the role of Toto in the national touring company of Oz, the Musical, they were getting their out-of-town tryout in our high school play. Mr. Berlotti worked with our high school students for three weeks, preparing them to work with his dogs on stage and preparing his four-footed stars to be ready for the noise and distraction of live theater. In addition to his theater work, Mr. Berlotti is very involved with animal rescue work and in particular the work of Animal Friends. He gave a special Sunday performance at the Woodland Hills High School gymnasium on Sunday, April 19, with the proceeds going to a local Animal Friends shelter. He also appeared on the KDKA-TV show, Pittsburgh Today, to promote a fundraiser he was doing for the same charity, but he also promoted our theater production. Everywhere he went, Mr. Berlotti spoke very highly about the quality of our high school play and the amazing opportunities available to our students. This marvelous experience was orchestrated by our WHHS Musical Director and Head of the Music Department, Mr. Tom Crone. Anyone who has had the pleasure of seeing a WHHS musical realizes the high level of professionalism and fun that Mr. Crone

achieves from his students, on an annual basis. This year was no exception. The High School auditorium was magically changed into the land of Oz. High School students were transformed into witches, flying monkeys, munchkins, a wizard, and a Kansas school girl and assorted “friends.” Loki showed up on the front page of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and stories about our musical appeared all over the local media. It was with a sad heart that we bid Mr. Berlotti, Loki and Nigel “adieu,” but when Oz stops in Pittsburgh on its national tour, acquaintances can be renewed. Loki and Nigel were not the only cute doggies spending time in the District. Mrs. Bloch, principal of Wilkins Primary, is also hosting a four-footed visitor. Pearl, the Chinese Crested Therapy Dog and her owner, Mrs. Sharyn Wolfson, have been visiting the school. Pearl and Mrs. Wolfson, a retired AIU and WHSD teacher, have been certified by Animal Friends to be members of the Pages and Paragraphs Therapy Group. As a reward for increased student achievement at Wilkins and improved student behavior, two students are selected from each classroom every Thursday to come to the library to read selections from their classroom anthologies with Pearl. Pearl’s first visit was on Thursday, April 17 and she continues to visit on a weekly basis. So if you hear that Woodland Hills is “going to the dogs!” You can reply that yes you know and things have never been better.

WHSD Career Center Best in the State The Woodland Hills School District Transitional College and Career Counseling program (C & C Center) was selected as the Best in the State of Pennsylvania. Center Coordinator Karen Rubican and Counselor Erin Williams represented the District and accepted the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association’s Multi-level Career and Education Development Award for 2009 at the awards dinner held at the Hershey Lodge, Hershey, Pennsylvania. The program was recognized for providing students with outstanding career education and development opportunities. Student opportunities include UPMC Braddock’s Health Rangers program, which targets junior high students and introduces them to a wide range of health industry careers and jobs. Students interested in health careers are also involved in UPMC St. Margaret’s monthly job shadow days. 36

IN Woodland Hills

Superintendent Dr. Walter Calinger, Erin Williams, Karen Rubican, WHHS Principal Dan Stephens, Pupil Services Director David Johnston

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

The World Comes to Woodland Hills

Pictured above: Helene Guinard (Grade 12, France), Jose Rojas (Grade 12, Columbia), Tobian Menges (Grade 12, Germany), Kateina Koci (Grade 11, Czech Republic), Max Also pictured are Superintendent Walter Calinger and CIEE Coordinator Peg Schmidt.

The Woodland Hills School District was happy to be the home of six exchange students this year. They came from Germany, South Korea, France, the Czech Republic and Colombia. Next year we would like to have even more students in our schools. In order for this to be possible, we need host families, who would be willing to welcome an exchange student into their homes for the year or some part of it. We have had students sponsored by several organizations this year including the CIEE International Study Program, the Rotary, and the AFS High School Exchange Program. There are several different ways that families and community members can become involved: First they can serve as a welcome family, that means you accept the student for the first one to three month transition period upon their arrival. The students are with the family long enough for them to start school and get settled. At that point, the organizations help them find another family to stay with for the rest of their time here. Another possibility is to host a student that is coming for one term only. Those students arrive in August

and leave in January. Finally, since most of the foreign students come for the entire school year, host families for these students are in the greatest demand. If you would like more information about the CIEE program, whose regional coordinator, Peg Schmidt lives in our District, you can contact her directly. To get more information about the program in general or to complete the online application, go to CIEE website at www.ciee.org/hs/host. Ms. Schmidt would be happy to provide answers to any questions and share some profiles of the students that are applying to come this fall. Please feel free to pass this note on to friends or neighbors—you do not have to have a child enrolled in the School District to be a host family. Peg Schmidt, CIEE Local Coordinator and Team Leader, can be reached at (412) 913-9841 or by email at pghpeg@gmail.com. If interested in being a being part of the Rotary International Student Exchange Program, please contact your local rotary for more details about the program.

If you would like to receive breaking news on twitter, follow WoodlandHillsSD @ twitter.com

Searching for Your Classmates? Woodland Hills School District alumni are finding each other with great success by using a wonderful resource: http://woodlandhills.alumniclass.com, a website created by and for WHSD alumni. Class reunion season is heating up and new classes and more classmates are discovering and using the site. In recent weeks, over 91 new alumni have joined the site and four classes have used the site to help in the planning of their reunions. New features are continually being added to the site and users have been posting a lot of positive comments. Site visitors can also sign up for a quarterly email newsletter that informs members of new activity on the site. Just a note of caution: one of the site managers has informed us of a scam that is targeting reunion planners and he would like site users to be careful. Someone has been contacting schools that use alumniclass.com, using fake alumni names and asking schools to replace or add a new alumni site to the school page. Users need to be careful with their personal information and inform the alumniclass.com webmaster if they have any concerns or questions. Woodland Hills alumni have worked hard over the years to build up the current alumni site, http://woodlandhills.alumniclass.com that can be trusted. Alumni, don’t forget to send us your reunion information for placement on the District Alumni Page on the www.whsd.net website. Email your information to mccoma@whsd.net.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT Shaffer Primary

New Principals and a New Face One District principal has a different position, one will have a new position, and one is a new face in the District.

Ms. Agatha Leonard is the new principal of Shaffer Primary in Churchill. Ms. Leonard assumed her new job on February 25. She was already working in the District as the assistant principal at the High School. Ms. Leonard is very happy to be working with the primary students and her new staff. Her background and experience make her a perfect fit for Shaffer Primary’s leadership. Principal Leonard has taught at both the elementary and secondary levels. She not only is certified as a principal for K-12, but is also certified as a Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction and of Special Education. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana and her Master’s degree in Education from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan Before coming to work full time in the Woodland Hills School District as a high school administrator, she worked as a substitute principal for the District. “I am very excited about assuming the leadership role at Shaffer Primary. The staff has shown me that they are extremely dedicated to providing the highest quality education to every child that walks through our door,” said Ms. Leonard. “I deeply appreciate the commitment of our parents and families, too, and enjoy working with them to ensure that Shaffer continues its tradition of excellence.”

Woodland Hills Academy The principal chosen to head the new Woodland Hills Academy is Mr. Reginald Hickman, the current principal of Rankin Intermediate. The Academy will open its doors to students on August 3, 2009, but Mr. Hickman will be working hard all summer getting the school and staff ready for its inaugural season. Mr. Hickman’s long career in education and his experience in the Woodland Hills School District made him the very best candidate for this demanding and challenging job. It is a position that he is excitedly undertaking. “Becoming the principal at a new school is always exciting, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help to create a totally new school. What we are doing with the Woodland 38 IN Woodland Hills

Hills Academy is something that is very innovative; a very different type of school for the District; and I don’t think there is any other public school district in our area that offers this type of program. I welcome the opportunity to work with staff, parents and students who have chosen to be a part of this great experience and are deeply committed to being a part of the Academy. Our specially chosen staff were selected to provide the type of education, curriculum and services that will be the hallmark of our school,” summed up Mr. Hickman. Mr. Hickman’s educational background includes a B.A. in History from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Master’s in Teaching and a Principal Certification also from Pitt. He previously held administrative positions in the Riverview and New Kensington-Arnold School District. Mr. Hickman returned to the Woodland Hills School District at the beginning of the 2008-09 school year to assume the principal position at Rankin Intermediate, but he began his career as a history teacher at the junior and senior high schools. We are excited to have him back.

Woodland Hills High School The High School welcomed a new assistant principal on April 6, 2009. Ms. Dawn Golden came to the Woodland Hills School District from the Wilkinsburg School District where she served as an assistant principal at the Junior and Senior High School. She was also an assistant principal at Duquesne Elementary School and was a Guidance Counselor for the Duquesne and the Ringgold School Districts. Her experience working for private social service agencies is a great help in working with students, families and staff. Her educational background includes bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She has a M.Ed. from the University of Pittsburgh and is certified as a K-12 Guidance Counselor and Principal (K-12) for the state of Pennsylvania. We welcome Ms. Golden to our District. She has already become a familiar face in the halls of the High School.

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT

Class of 2009 is Awarded Over $3 Million in Scholarships Presenting the WHAF scholarships are Jamie Glasser, representing Senator Jay Costa, scholarship awardees Anton Bubolz and Anthony Santercangelo and President of the Woodland Hills Academic Foundation Board, Chris Longwill

Presenting the Louis Keough Scholarship given by the Braddock Lions Club is John Besseck and Nina Burdell (far right) to WHHS students Shielah DeBlanc and Hausaan Littlejohn-Burton

Presenting the Junior High Scholarships to awardees Nicholas Williams and Kyle Porter are teachers Adam Forgie and Allison Forgie

The amount of scholarships awarded to the WHHS graduating class of 2009 is $3,005,735 . Following is a list of some of the local scholarship winners that were announced at the Senior Honors Banquet on April 29, 2009.

Fund Marc O’Toole/Churchill/Wilkins Rotary Scholarship Darcy Lynne Herman Scholarship Don Wukich Scholarship Patti Fedishen Zollner Scholarship Anthony DePaulo Memorial Scholarship Woodland Hills Education Association Scholarships Ridgewood Manor Garden Club Woodland Hills Academic Foundation Scholarship WHAF Julia Anne McCool Memorial Scholarship for the Arts and Humanitites Woodland Hills Memorial Scholarship Louis Keough Scholarship

Recipient(s) Naba Alibeji, Zachary Good, Maura Pantone Naba Alibeji, Markus Gibson Sean Samsa Megan McQuade, Markus Gibson Natalie Rankin Tomasina Boyd, Megan Nagel Alessandra DeChancie Anton Bubolz, Anthony Santercangelo Nina Bubolz Arisita Hunter Shielah DeBlanc, Hausaan Littlejohn-Burton Jessica Swartzwelder

Jewish War Veterans Auxillary 718 Health Professions Scholarship Junior High Scholarship Braddock Senior High School Scholarship Nancy Emanuel Memorial Scholarship Judge William G. Hawkins, Jr. Scholarship Slava Silan Mohler Scholarship

Nicholas Williams, Kyle Porter Alicia Smith, Janita Kilgore Shielah DeBlanc Cherie Olivis Alessandra DeChancie

Not given at Banquet Churchill Women’s Club Scholarship

Lauren Migliozzi

A FREE COLLEGE PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Starting with the 2009-10 school year, juniors and seniors at Woodland Hills High School can start taking classes at Community College of Allegheny County/Boyce Campus (CCAC). Called the “College Now!” program, all costs will be paid for by the School District including tuition, books, lab fees and transportation to and from the high school. It is possible that beginning with the Class of ’11, students will graduate with both their high school diplomas and an associate’s degree from CCAC. Equally important, all CCAC credits are accepted fully at 21 colleges and universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State, Duquesne University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. So a Woodland Hills graduate with a CCAC associate’s degree could enter one of these institutions as a junior and receive his or her bachelor’s degree in less than two years. Students will also maintain their high school athletic

eligibilities and can participate in all extracurricular activities. To be eligible to apply to CCAC, students must have completed their sophomore year with a 3.0 GPA and a good disciplinary record. Signed parental permission is also required. Superintendent Walter Calinger said, “We’ve worked hard to make this affiliation possible with CCAC. We know there are students eager to move on with their studies. We know, too, there are parents who will breathe a sigh of relief at having two years of college paid for by the District. This is a win-win-win for all involved.” For more information about the “College Now!” program, visit the District web site at www.whsd.net.

IN Woodland Hills | Summer 2009 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

W OODLAND H ILLS S CHOOL D ISRICT Don’t miss Summer Science Cam p July 27-31!

ummer cience

“We are all scientists; we wonder, question and test our theories about the world. An understanding of science is nothing more than an understanding of ourselves,” says President and Founder of MAEA, Darryl Lee Baynes. MAEA stands for Minority Aviation Education Association, Inc. The Woodland Hills School District will be hosting Mr. Baynes and his interactive science program for a week-long summer science camp July 27-31. Mr. Baynes visited all of the District elementary schools during the school year. Students who will be in grades 4-6 for the 2009-10 school year were given interest surveys to take home and return if they wanted to participate. The schedule for the Summer Science Camp is Monday: Engineering and Architecture; Tuesday: Biology; Wednesday: Physics; Thursday: Rocketry; and Friday: Chemistry. MAEA is the preeminent science and math outreach company in the country. Since its beginning in 1992, MAEA has provided programs for more than a quarter of a million students, teachers and parents. The goal of this non-profit organization is to expose students to the major sciences through practical applications and demonstrations. Mr. Baynes has the extraordinary ability to demonstrate the relevance of science in everyday life, with the intent to stimulate career interest. Mr. Baynes works to aid students interested in science, math, engineering and computer science in securing financial assistance, enabling them to pursue post secondary education. Through his

Free Summer Sports Camps

Camps are being held at the High School Campus for Woodland Hills students in grades 3 through 8. Contact the Athletic Office to register: 412.244.1100 ext. 5141

40 IN Woodland Hills

April 15 workshop at Dickson Intermediate School.

programs, he has worked to increase the numbers of minorities and females employed in science, math, high tech and commercial aviation fields, where they have traditionally been underrepresented. An additional goal of the program is to educate teachers on how to provide hands-on science experiments in their own classrooms. The students and teachers who participated in the spring MAEA science programs were wildly enthusiastic about the “fun” way that Mr. Baynes taught science. This summer, the fun and learning will continue during the July Summer Science Camp.

Dates

Time

Sport

Contact

June 15-18

6-8pm

Girls’ Soccer

Michael Hoehn

June 15, 17, 19

10am-1:30pm

Boys’ Basketball

Dave Caparosa

June 22-24

9am-12pm

Track

Paul Beard

June 22-25

9-11am

Co-ed Tennis

Dan Schuller

June 22-26

10am-1:30pm

Girls’ Basketball

Korie Morton-Rozier

July 6-10

3-5:30pm

Boys’ Soccer

Delroy Russell

July 8-12

10am-1:30pm

Girls’ Volleyball

Susan Tanski

July 9-11 & July 16-18

10am-1pm

Softball

Tony Paganico

July 20-23

9-11am

Co-ed Tennis

Dan Schuller

July 23-25

10am-1pm

Softball

Tony Paganico

TBD

Baseball

Tim Banner email if interested: tbannerna38@aol.com

“My doctor told me I can treat my fibroids without a hysterectomy.” — Tanya, age 43

Heavy Periods? Pelvic Pain? Frequent Urination? Constipation/Bloating? You might have uterine fibroids Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow on or in the muscles of the uterus (womb). At least 25 percent of women in the U.S. have fibroids. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a safe, non-surgical procedure for treating uterine fibroids and providing symptom relief.

• No surgery • No general anesthesia • Overnight stay • Covered by most insurance plans

For more information contact:

866-241-7215

iN BETHEL PARK I iN CANON MAC I iN CHARTIERS VALLEY I iN MARS AREA I iN MONROEVILLE I iN MURRYSVILLE I iN NORTH ALLEGHENY iN PENN HILLS I iN PETERS TOWNSHIP I iN ROSS TOWNSHIP I iN SENECA VALLEY I iN SOUTH FAYETTE I iN WOODLAND HILLS

iN Community Magazines 453 Valley Brook Road | Suite 300 McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH, PA PERMIT NO. 887

Forbes Named Region’s First Accredited Chest Pain Center The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus is proud to be the first hospital in the Pittsburgh region named an accredited Chest Pain Center by the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Only nine hospitals in Pennsylvania received this distinguished recognition. To earn accreditation, facilities must meet or exceed a wide set of stringent criteria, including an on-site evaluation by a review team from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Accredited facilities have the capabilities, resources and expertise to prevent, diagnose and treat chest pain and heart disease. Forbes new Chest Pain Evaluation Unit, together with The Ed Dardanell Heart and Vascular Center, demonstrate the hospital’s high level of commitment to quality in treating patients with acute coronary syndrome and coronary artery disease. For more information on cardiovascular and cardiothoracic services at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital – Forbes Regional Campus or to make an appointment with a physician, call 412-DOCTORS (362-8677), or 1-877-284-2000.