IN McKeesport Area

WINTER 2010

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

McKeesport Celebrates the Season!

McKeesport Area

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School District Info Inside!

Contents McKeesport | WINTER 2010 |

W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

39 44

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© 2010 UPMC

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The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

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The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

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Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

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Meet Our Physicians

Publisher’s Message | 2 FEATURES

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Open Your Heart to an Older Adult

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UPMC Today

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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21

COMMUNITY INTEREST

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Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions

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IN KIDS | 39

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Have a Holiday Heart-to-Heart

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DIY Holiday Cards | 41

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Winterizing Your Vehicle | 46

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Those Unwholesome Christmas Memories | 48

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McKeesport Area School District News | 3

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McKeesport Area Military Heroes | 20

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McKeesport City News | 29

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Older Adults in McKeesport | 44

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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

ON THE COVER

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Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus help usher in the holidays at the McKeesport Parade.

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

Welcome to our winter issue!

At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking that journey with us that was 2010.

This year was one full of blessings for IN Community Magazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success.

For that, I would like to thank my staff. I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine what it is: you–our readers–and our advertisers.

Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write-in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.

Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support with IN Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicle for you.

But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

IN McKeesport is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the McKeesport area 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 AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of McKeesport. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community.

Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don't forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers!

The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the McKeesport community is amazing and awesome.

From all of us at IN Community Magazines, we hope that your holiday will be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’ll be surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor

WINTER 2010

Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you.

–T.A. Baron

Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine 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 2010.

CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

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Cl ifford comes to George W as hi ng ton Elementary!

McKeesport A R E A

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t is with great hope that you are reading this without the outside temperature hovering near the zero degree mark. What a beginning to the month of December! The time thus far this school year has passed quickly and we will be in the second semester in only a few weeks. Graduating seniors will shortly realize that their journey through the McKeesport Area School District is coming to pass while underclassmen will begin to anticipate what next year will bring.

In the meantime, there is plenty of work to be done and this installment of In McKeesport Area highlights many of those initiatives and programming that our students are currently engaged in that make their time in our district so valuable.

As the calendar moves into January, our district schools continue to narrow their focus and activities in preparation of the upcoming PSSA testing windows. The district is poised to build upon its successes of last school year as we aim for two consecutive years of making AYP. Students at both the middle school and high school will be participating in the initial round of the Keystone Exams in the spring of this school year.

Tests will be given this year in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Biology, Literature and English Composition with additional tests becoming available next year. This year’s eighth grade students will be required to pass four of the ten Keystone Exams in order to graduate while each subsequent graduating class will need to pass six of the ten. Additional information on the Keystone Exams is available in this issue of

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IN McKeesport Area as well as in the middle school and high school.

Included in this issue is information about our MASD Warmly Cares drive to help keep children and families within our community warm throughout these winter months as well as recap of our annual Veterans Day celebration. One of our student athletes, Delvon Simmons, became the first in a line of outstanding football players in McKeesport Area history to be selected as an Army All American. Delvon was recognized recently at an assembly in the high school auditorium and will participate in the prestigious Army All American game to be nationally televised on January 8, 2011.

The building projects are under way! Construction on Francis McClure has begun with an anticipated opening slated for August 2011. The demolition of Cornell Intermediate is complete with construction projected to begin in the early spring months of 2011. The third site, located above the Penn State Greater Allegheny campus area, is progressing through the environmental and geotechnical testing processes. We will continue to update the public through various forums on all three of the building projects.

On behalf of the McKeesport Area School District administration and Board of Directors, I would like to wish everyone and their families a safe and happy holiday season.

Thank you for everything you do for the children of our district.

Sincerely, Timothy M. Gabauer, Ed.D Superintendent - MASD

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

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Message from the

School District Board of Directors

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s the temperatures drop, things in McKeesport Area School District are heating up! Our

District kicked off “MASD Warmly Cares.” This initiative will run throughout the winter to

collect winter outerwear donations that will be given back to our community during these cold

months. In the pages to follow, we are excited to shine the spotlight on students who have gone above and beyond, making great strides within our District. Also, readers will get an inside glimpse of the new Keystone Exams, events throughout the district, and the second year of our Administrative Academy.

One of the biggest factors in the overall success of our students and our district will always be our ability to work in partnership with our parents and the community. We hope that you feel welcome in our schools and that you will take advantage of opportunities to become involved, to learn more about your school district and to be a part of the many things that are taking place.

Members of the school board of directors encourage parents and guardians to be actively involved, in all areas if the district, by attending board and building level meetings. Board Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Sessions begin at 7:30 p.m. in the board room at the district administration building, located at 3590 O’Neil Boulevard in McKeesport.

On behalf of the board, have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

Sincerely, Wayne N. Washowich President, McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors

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Throughout all of the recent changes taking place in our District, Director Kondrosky and I would like to take a moment to thank each and every board member for their continued support. Steve and I are excited to continue to as President and Vice-President of the McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors for the upcoming year.

McKeesport Area Contact Information School Board of Directors James L. Brown Joseph L. Chiaverini Christopher A. Halaszynski Mark P. Holtzman Vice President Steven E. Kondrosky Dennis J. (Joe) Lopretto Thomas P. Maglicco Patricia A. Maksin President Wayne N. Washowich Central Administration Superintendent Dr. Timothy M. Gabauer 412.664.3612 Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rula S. Skezas 412.664.3613

Administrative Team

Business Manager/ Board Secretary Mr. David M. Seropian 412.664.3600 Director of Human Resources/Administration Services Mr. James G. Humanic 412.664.3608 Director of Federal/ State Programs (Homeless Liaison) Mr. Michael V. Matta 412.664.3627 Director of Special Education Mrs. Patricia M. Tkacik 412.664.3622 Director Food Service Ms. Tammi T. Davis 412.664.3685

Special Education Supervisor Mr. David L. Listorti 412.664.3625 Special Education Administrative Assistant Mr. Menas E. Zannikos 412.664.3624 District Grants and Special Projects Coordinator/Director of Vocational Education Mrs. Patricia J. Scales 412.948.1363 Director of Early Childhood Education and Elementary Curriculum Dr. Catherine S. Lobaugh 412.948.1386

Secondary Curriculum and Transformation Coordinator Mr. Harry A. Bauman 412.948.1310 Principal of Cyber School/ District Technology Integration Dr. Jane L. Coughenour 412.948.1317 Communications/ Public Relations Specialist Ms. Kristen M. Davis 412.664.3645 Director of Buildings and Grounds Mr. Edward F. Fagan 412.664.3631 Technology Coordinator Mr. H. Ben South 412.664.3764

r e b o t m s e e t Da Rem tarts ak s e r b s ma mber 22 t s i r h C ce on Dea half day. e with will resum s .

Classe January 3 on

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eorge Washington Elementary's fall book fair took on a new identity this fall, a superhero identity that is. The book fair's theme "Reading Saves the Day" celebrated Heroes, real or imaginary, but especially the everyday heroes such as those who work in the community.

Students were visited by Clifford the Big Red Dog and members of the McKeesport Police Department, who stopped by to read stories, take pictures, and help the students pick out books.

Readin g Save s The Da y!

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Keystone Exams tarting with the 2015–2016 academic year, students will now be responsible for passing the new Keystone Exams to graduate. “The Keystone Exams are an endof-the-course assessment to test proficiency in certain subject areas,” says Harry Bauman, secondary curriculum and transformation coordinator at McKeesport Area School District.

During this first year, the current 8th graders will have to pass four tests: Algebra 1, Biology, English Composition, and English Literature. The test is taken in two parts, each about an hour and a half long. The time at which each student takes these tests can differ depending on when they take the course. Most students will take Algebra 1 in the 8th grade; therefore, they will take the Algebra 1 exam at the end of the year, after they have completed the course.

The Keystone Exams are designed to take the place of the PSSAs, which all 11th grade students have been taking since the No Child Left Behind Act was passed in 2001.

One advantage of the new tests is that the students will not have to wait until 11th grade to be tested. “This gives the district a better idea about where the students are,” says Bauman. The test is said to focus on “depth of knowledge,” which, according to Bauman, adds challenge and rigor that makes kids think.

Like the PSSAs, the Keystone Exams will determine Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for the district, which measures how successful the students and district are.

“Ultimately, after the tests have been grandfathered in, the Class of 2017 will not only be responsible for passing the course but six out of 10 tests,” says Bauman. Those students will have

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The Keystone Exams are designed to take the place of the PSSAs

to pass English Composition and Literature, as well as two math, one science, and one history exam.

Each student gets two chances to pass the test. If, after the second effort, they fail, they are required to do a state mandated project. “This is usually an extensive project that includes researching and writing,” says Bauman. The school districts will be required to monitor the project, and one teacher might be assigned to monitor three or four kids. Once the project is submitted to the state, they will decide whether the student will pass or not.

“This is the state controlling how we give out diplomas,” says Bauman. “They want to make sure all students walk out of here with the skills they need.”

According to Bauman, some things still aren't nailed down by the state. What has not been decided yet is whether the tests will count for 33% of the students’ final grade or if it will stand alone. “If the test counts for 33% of the final grade, it will make it very hard for a student to pass the course if they don't do well on the test,” he explains. “Were waiting to see what option gives the best advantage to our students.” Some state officials are saying that schools may have the option to look at each case individually and decide what is best for the student. The Department of Education is expected to make the determination in the next two months.

According to Bauman, now is the time for the district to really start honing in on their skills. “You can't teach the test,” says Bauman. “You have to teach the kids to really think through that subject area. It's going to be a challenge, especially early on, but we know that we can get our kids there.”

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

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IN McKeesport

Local Elementary School Student Supports the Troops

By Jamie Ward lycia Lefcowitz has spent much of her life helping soldiers. She heads up the “U.S. Soldier Care Packages” charity at White Oak Elementary School. She came up with the idea on her own and collects all the items to be donated. All of that is pretty impressive, but it's even more so when you learn that Alycia Lefcowitz is just seven years old.

It all started with Alycia’s principal, Mr. Anthony DeMaro, told the students to do something nice for someone and then write a paper about it. Alycia took her assignment to heart and began something extraordinary.

First, she talked to her mom and learned that her mom works with a former Marine. The Marine told Alycia about the basic things soldiers need like food, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and gel inserts for their shoes. Alycia wanted to help, so she packed a box and shipped it to Afghanistan.

That may have been the end of Alycia's summer project, but then she got a letter in the mail from one of the soldiers. It wasn't a long letter, just enough to say “thank you,” but it made Alycia realize what she had done was very special.

“I was happy he liked it,” Alycia says, “and there was stuff that he needed in there.”

From there, Alycia knew she had to do more. So she went to her school principal. “I asked Dr. Woods if I could put a box in each classroom to be filled up,” says Alycia.

Dr. Woods said yes and the U.S. Soldier Care Packages charity was born. The Lefcowitz family put boxes in the classrooms and asked students to fill them with donations. When Alycia and her parents collected the boxes in mid-November, they were overwhelmed by the generosity. The boxes were overflowing with food, toiletries, and other items.

“We are taking them home to package them for Afghanastan,” says Alycia's mother, Melissa. “Hopefully they will be arriving by Christmas.”

“It makes me feel like a nice person,” says Alycia. “They are going to be away from their families for Christmas, but they can have this from us.”

U.S. Soldier Care Packages is sending 26 boxes overseas, but Alycia plans to send more.

And she hopes other students will be inspired to join her effort. “I hope this encourages people to do nice things for other people,” she says.

“She's a very caring little girl who thinks of others a lot,” says a teary-eyed Melissa. “You can't even imagine how proud of her we are.”

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White Oak Elementary Principal Dr. Tamara Sanders-Woods with Alycia Lefcowitz

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cKeesport Area High School celebrated Veterans Day with a Multimedia Presentation honoring all Veterans. The event took place on November 10 at the High School. The McKeesport Band, Orchestra and Choir were part of the presentation that saluted each branch of the military including the World War II Merchant Marine Corp.

Veterans from the community came out for the event and enjoyed a special reception following the presentation.

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Celebrating Veterans

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Administrative Academy ome students at McKeesport High School (MHS) are stepping out of the classroom for a more hands-on approach to learning. The Administrative Academy at MHS takes a group of students on trips around the city to learn about everything from mathematics to the arts.

The Administrative Academy was started as an initiative to raise student achievement. The project teamed central administration members with students who were in need of help with mathematics. Twenty eleventh grade students who scored average on their 8th grade PSSAs were identified by high school administrators. Those 20 students had expressed hopes of increasing their achievement levels during meetings with the principals.

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Former Superintendent Dr. Michael Brinkos and the central administration team wanted to find a way to not only improve the student's academic achievement, but also to build relationships with each student. From here the Administrative Academy was born.

The administrators determined that “education was everyone’s business,” and contacts were made to higher education institutions, the intermediate unit, local businesses, and other community organizations in order to form a partnership to embrace this group of students.

The Academy, now in its second year, under the control of new superintendent Dr. Timothy Gabauer, held a kick-off breakfast at Penn State–Greater Allegheny Campus in late September. The second trip was to the Carnegie Science Center, where the stu-

Starts Its Second Year n: Our Visio aching core , re ic by name d il h c e academ ic y r r o c in “Eve y c proficien e, econom academic ardless of zip cod isability.” s reg discipline ace, ethnicity of d k, Zahorcha status, r

dents learned about buoyancy. students. “You bring a group of stuEach trip will have a separate dents from all different backgrounds, lesson plan relating to its use. and by the end of the whole thing, it Last year, students learned about was like a family atmosphere,” she architecture at Heinz Field and says. “The students were comfortable ld L. on accounting at PNC Bank. asking questions.”

-Dr. Gera rtment of Educati nia Depa “Each trip we go on, about three Davis says the students from last year Pennsylva or four seniors from last year will will still come up to her in the halls and ask things like, “What’s going on this year?” and “Where are you going next?” The come along to be mentors,” says students involved last year took away not only a great experience, but Kristen Davis, public relations and communications specialist at useful tools for their education. “They were able to take things they McKeesport. “They can help out with the learning and build upon what they learned last year.” learned on the trips and apply it on their PSSAs,” says Davis.

The success of the Academy's first year was an inspiration to This year, the group will be taking trips to two returning partners—PNC Bank and the Pittsburgh Super Computing Center— the administrators. Davis says she really saw a change in the plus Penn United Technologies and Pittsburgh Public Theater.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

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Groomed to

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Grow

ixth grade students from Francis McClure visited the McKeesport Area High School Technology Center to participate in their “Groomed to Grow” program. The high school cosmetology students got to use their skills during parent-approved activities like massages, manicures, haircuts, hairstyling, and facials.

The “Groomed to Grow” program shows sixth grade students what opportunities are available at the Technology Center.

After a morning of pampering, the sixth grade students had lunch prepared by the Culinary Arts students at the Tiger Inn.

The “Groomed to Grow” program at McKeesport Area School District

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McKeesport

“I think we’re all just hoping to help the less fortunate this Christmas”

McKeesport Area School District

Warmly Cares s the temperatures continue to get colder, the generosity is really heating up in the MASD. The MASD Warmly Cares campaign kicked off with its “Central Administration Family Tree.” The entire central administration team pitched in and created ornaments for the tree, which is to be displayed at the McKeesport Festival of Trees.

But that is just the beginning. Next up are two fundraisers: a clothing drive and a penny drive. For the clothing drive, students placed boxes in every building in the district for collection of new and gently used winter outerwear. Accepted items include: coats, jacket, mittens, gloves, scarves and hats. Those who don't have students in the district but still want to help out can drop off their donations at the central administration building. Items will be accepted until January 28. The new and used clothing will be donated to local organizations.

The penny drive is called MASD Warmly Cares Coins for Caring and it benefits the less fortunate in the area. Kristen Davis, Public Relations

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Specialist for the District says, “Jars will be placed in every classroom in the K-6 building, strategic places throughout founders hall and the high school” The drive is going on now through the end of January.

The campaign started as a collaboration between Davis, Ed Fagan, Director of Buildings and Grounds and Dr. Catherine Lobaugh, Director of Early Childhood Education and Elementary Curriculum. “We took the idea to the The Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Gabauer, and once he gave us the O.K., we took it and ran with it”, says Davis.

The campaign doesn't just benefit those who will receive the donated goods but is used as a learning piece for the Administrative Academy students. The students help by handing out fliers and placing the jars and boxes in the schools. Then, they will write letters to organizations like Dicks Sporting Goods asking for donations for Warmly Cares. “It's really a well rounded project,” says Davis, “They participate in writing, public speaking and also learn the importance of giving back to the community.”

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McKeesport Area High School Student Named All-American cKeesport Area High School student Delvon Simmons was selected by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl to play in the 2011 Army All-American Bowl. Simmons and the rest of the students chosen will travel to San Antonio, Texas, to play in the game on Saturday, January 8.

“Delvon is a talented athlete whose exemplary leadership and teamwork qualities have made him a standout at McKeesport Area High School,” said Col. Derik Crotts, director of strategic communications, marketing and outreach, U.S. Army Accessions Command. “The strength, dedication, leadership, and teamwork skills necessary to succeed on the football field are the same qualities mirrored in Army strong soldiers. We are proud to honor all of our U.S. Army All-American Bowl players and congratulate them on their selection.”

Players are chosen by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Committee—Rivals.com, Tom Lemming, and All American Games. Out of millions of high school football players, the committee nominates 400 to be considered, and then 90 U.S. Army All-Americans are ultimately selected.

Simmons was one of the nation’s top 90 high school football players chosen. Athletes chosen must be in good standing within their schools and communities. For years, the U.S. Army All-American Bowl has been a launching pad for the nation’s future college and NFL stars. More than 34,000 fans packed the Alamo Dome for last year’s game.

NFL players Adrian Peterson, Mark Sanchez, Tim Tebow, Michael Oher, and Terrelle Pryor all made their national debuts as U.S. Army All-Americans. In 2010, a record 37 U.S. Army All-American Bowl alumni were selected in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Simmons's head coach at McKeesport, Jim Ward, who will be joining him in San Antonio to attend the U.S. Army Coaches Academy and participate in game-week activities, says he couldn't be more proud of Simmons.

“He’s worked very hard and he’s deserving of this honor,” says Ward. “It's an opportunity to showcase his abilities and represent our city and school on the biggest stage in high school football. He's really excited about it, and we’re excited for him.”

The annual East vs. West match-up will be televised live on NBC at 1 p.m. EST. For more information, visit www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com.

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n a c i r e m All-A

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Building Updates Cornell Elementary/Intermediate Site The Cornell site is currently entering into the bid process. Construction is slated to begin in the early spring months of 2011. Additionally, we are currently in the acquisition stages pertaining to the adjacent properties.

Francis McClure Elementary/ Intermediate Site The ground breaking event was held at Francis McClure on Thursday, December 16th at 2:00 PM. Every member of the board of directors was invited to kick-off the project by using their ceremonial shovels in the ground where this exciting new project will take place.

New McKeesport Elementary/ Intermediate Site At the new McKeesport Elementary/Intermediate site (Bucks Mansion property), the acquisition process is underway. Additionally, the early steps of the PlanCon process, geotechnical drilling and environmental studies are being done.

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Administration Office 3590 O’Neil Boulevard McKeesport, PA 15132 Office: 412.664.3600 Fax: 412.664.3638 Superintendent: Dr. Timothy Gabauer

Centennial 1601 Beaver Street McKeesport, PA 15132 Office: 412.664.3750 Fax: 412.664.3756 Principal: Ms. Staci Fitzpatrick

Founders’ Hall 3600 O’Neil Boulevard McKeesport, PA 15132 Office: 412.948.1310 Fax: 412.664.3768 Principal: Dr. Karen Chapman

McKeesport Area High School and Technology Center 1960 Eden Park Boulevard McKeesport, PA 15132 Office: 412.664.3650 Fax: 412.664.3787 Head Principal of Academics: Mr. Mark Holtzman Director of Career and Technology Center: Mrs. Patricia Scales

George Washington 1818 Sumac Street McKeesport, PA 15132 Office: 412.664.3770 Fax: 412.664.3777 Principal: Mr. Paul Sweda

White Oak Elementary 1415 California Avenue White Oak, PA 15131 Office: 412.664.3790 Fax: 412.664.3794 Principal: Dr. Tamara Sanders-Woods

Francis McClure Intermediate School 500 Longvue Drive White Oak, PA 15131 Office: 412.664.3740 Fax: 412.664.3747 Principals: Mr. Anthony DeMaro Ms. Pamela Gordon Principal of Cyber School/ District Technology Integration: Dr. Jane Coughenour

McKeesport

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined.

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ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day.

And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach.

“I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains, “but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.”

Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company.

“Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh.

Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives and share advice.

“It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.”

Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that gives her meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of her experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.”

Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking for volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help with grocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling and yard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could use some assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol, families and groups are also welcome.

To learn more or become a volunteer, visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071.

“It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t say enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant for storytelling, though, he probably could.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

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We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them in this magazine.

Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

© 2010 UPMC

page 2

The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

Meet Our Physicians

The First Line of Defense Start the year off right with a visit to your primary care physician When you put together your New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to include a visit to your primary care physician (PCP).

Navigating the health care system without an established relationship with a PCP is like playing football without a coach — you may have the ball, but no one knows what to do with it. Having a primary care physician is one of the most important things you can do to ensure quality health and wellness for yourself and your family.

With a PCP, you’re assured continuity of care from a doctor who knows you and sees the big picture, says David A. Harinstein, MD, an internist at UPMC McKeesport and Health First Medical Associates–UPMC in McKeesport.

“We’re the first line of defense in good health. We look at the whole person, and we focus on preventing problems,” Dr. Harinstein says. “When a problem does arise, we coordinate the patient’s health care and make sure everyone is communicating.”

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www.UPMC.com/Today

The important role of your PCP As your partner in health, your PCP: • knows you, your lifestyle, and your family history • provides non-emergency treatment for common medical conditions from strep throat to bacterial infections and simple viruses • maintains your health records • focuses on preventive care • screens for diseases or conditions that may not present symptoms in early stages • updates vaccinations • checks blood pressure, blood sugar, and/or cholesterol, and establishes regular monitoring if those numbers are high • provides referrals to the right specialist or support program when needed

How do you find a PCP? Word of mouth from people you trust can be a great tool for finding a doctor.

Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor for a recommendation. You also can visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information. To contact a UPMC McKeesport physician’s office directly, see our listing on page 7.

Finding a PCP Who Is the Right Fit for You There are several areas in which primary care physicians can focus: Family Medicine: Physicians who typically treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly.

Because family practitioners can care for the whole family, they have training in a number of medical disciplines, including internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology.

Internal Medicine: Physicians who treat adult patients, usually ages 18 and up. Internists diagnose and treat diseases in adults without surgery. They may have a subspecialty in a specific area, like the heart or lungs; a specific disease, such as diabetes; or a particular age group, such as the elderly.

Pediatrics: Physicians who care for and treat newborns, infants, children, and adolescents.

Pediatricians focus on preventive care for healthy children and treat children who are injured or ill. They specialize in childhood diseases, growth, and emotional health.

The Difference See a Number Can Make how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call!

Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke.

When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80.

The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less.

A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream.

To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.

You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.

Your doctor can help you learn and manage these numbers. To schedule an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.

Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

Colonoscopy: The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer When caught early, colon cancer is beatable in nine out of 10 cases. That’s why everyone age 50 and older should have a colonoscopy, advises Sudhir K. Narla, MD, chief of Gastroenterology at UPMC McKeesport and director of the hospital’s Center for Digestive Disorders.

“The colonoscopy is a good preventive tool, reducing the incidence of cancer and increasing longevity,” says Dr. Narla, who recommends regular screenings (every 10 years for low-risk patients, two to five years for high-risk patients).

A colonoscopy lets your doctor: • examine the inside of the entire colon, looking for polyps and signs of cancer • explore possible causes of abdominal pain and intestinal problems, such as rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, and diarrhea • remove polyps or biopsy suspicious growths and send samples to a lab to check for cancer

New technology makes the procedure much easier. The colonoscopy itself is quick and painless. Patients are sedated and the procedure normally takes about 15 minutes. For most people, the cleansing that empties the colon of stool prior to the procedure is the tough part — but it’s well worth the inconvenience for its lifesaving impact, says Dr. Narla.

For more information, contact the Center for Digestive Disorders at UPMC McKeesport at 412-664-2119.

Did You Know?

• Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths.

• Colon cancer has no symptoms (in most cases) and can be diagnosed at any age.

• Polyps (precursors of colon cancer) are found in one-fourth of all colonoscopy procedures.

• Having a colonoscopy can reduce your risk of dying from colon cancer by 90 percent.

1-800-533-UPMC

3

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand?

You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles.

• Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product.

• Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available.

• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin.

To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently.

• Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors.

• Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes.

Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

• Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation?

Join a walking group.

• Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend.

• With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

4

www.UPMC.com/Today

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring.

“Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression.

In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains.

Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall.

If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy.

While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

Did You Know?

• People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition.

• More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Innovation at UPMC

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith.

Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task.

Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine.

But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology.

Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.”

The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world.

They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery.

“We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.”

For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

1-800-533-UPMC

5

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm.

Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses.

“All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti.

The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed.

“The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor.

We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free.

A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

6

www.UPMC.com/Today

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists.

If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone: 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.

Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.

No appointments needed.

Walk-ins welcome.

Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.

Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.

No appointments needed.

Walk-ins welcome.

Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging

Meet Our Physicians UPMC McKeesport has many primary care physicians on staff.

Start the New Year off right by making an appointment with one right in your own community.

BRADDOCK Internal Medicine

McKEESPORT Family Medicine

Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-351-6300 Paul Donegan, MD ................ 412-351-6300

Daphne Bicket, MD................

Tracey Conti, MD....................

Essam Demian, MD ..............

Martin Johns, MD ..................

James Johnson, MD ..............

Harry Lanauze, MD................

William Markle, MD..............

Cathleen McGonigle, DO ....

Emeil Shenouda, MD ............

CLAIRTON Internal Medicine Madhusudan Menon, MD .. 412-267-6307

DUQUESNE Family Medicine Clifford Chen, MD .................. 412-469-3627 Isaac Levari, MD .................... 412-469-3627 Todd Zimmerman, MD ........ 412-469-3627

Internal Medicine Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-466-6300 Mubashar Chughtai, MD .... 412-469-4100

EAST McKEESPORT Internal Medicine Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-824-4015

ELIZABETH Family Medicine James Campagna, MD..........

Edward Goralczyk, MD ........

Irene Lomeda, MD ................

Douglas Skinner, MD ............

412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-664-4141 412-672-2877 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic, Jr., MD ..

Rudolph Antoncic III, MD....

Ibrahim Ghobrial, MD ..........

David Harinstein, MD ..........

Nadeem Islam, MD................

Reena Karnik, MD ..................

John Parry, MD........................

Robert Pavlak, MD ................

R. Curtis Waligura, DO ........

412-672-1000 412-751-4400 412-664-2782 412-672-1000 412-672-1000 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-678-7717

MONROEVILLE Family Medicine Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 724-327-0212

412-751-0200 412-751-4661 412-751-4661 412-751-4661

FOREST HILLS Family Medicine Laura Arnold, MD ..................

Clifford Chen, MD ..................

Gordon Handelsman, MD ..

Inna Lamm, MD ......................

Isaac Levari, MD ....................

Douglas Skinner, MD ............

WEST MIFFLIN Family Medicine

Internal Medicine Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 724-327-0212

MUNHALL Family Medicine Gordon Handelsman, MD .. 412-462-7700

412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-241-7700 412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-247-3222

Internal Medicine

Seetha Chandra, MD ............ 412-271-5220

RANKIN Internal Medicine

R. Curtis Waligura, MD ........ 412-461-2790

PLEASANT HILLS Internal Medicine Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-877-7387

Internal Medicine GLASSPORT Internal Medicine

Radhalaskshmi Aluru, MD .. 412-351-4555

Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-672-6133 Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-678-0783 V. Edgardo Reyes, MD .......... 412-678-0783

SWISSVALE Family Medicine

HAZELWOOD Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

Joseph Santiesteban, MD .. 412-462-1800

HOMESTEAD Internal Medicine Jose Caballe, MD.................... 412-678-7711 Vera Sherman, MD ................ 412-462-6001

Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 412-351-3088 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-271-7333 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-271-7333 Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 412-351-3088

TURTLE CREEK Internal Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD .................. 412-823-7390 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-823-7390 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-823-7390

Darcy Giger, DO...................... 412-650-9700 Mamta Patel, MD .................. 412-650-9700 Lynn Potts, MD........................ 412-650-9700

Internal Medicine Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-466-0670 Oliver Herndon, MD.............. 412-460-1111

WHITE OAK Family Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD ..................

Raja Chakrapani, MD ............

Louis DiToppa, DO ................

Samuel Kupfer, MD ..............

Jan Pomiecko, MD..................

Farial Rawji, MD......................

412-672-8311 412-672-8311 412-664-0720 412-673-8140 412-678-8740 412-672-3633

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic Jr., MD....

David Arisumi, MD ................

Joseph Caballe, MD ..............

David Harinstein, MD ..........

Mohammad Idrees, MD ......

Nadeem Islam, MD................

Rahila Khwaja, MD ................

Muhammad Mukhtar, MD ..

Prabhat Seth, MD ..................

412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-678-7711 412-673-5020 412-672-6800 412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-672-9000 412-678-0219

Pediatrics Kamlesh Pandy, MD .............. 412-673-2200 Leslie Silberman, MD............ 412-673-2200

WILKINSBURG Family Medicine Yee Ho, MD .............................. 412-243-4500

WILMERDING Family Medicine Veena Dhar, MD .................... 412-816-1818

Meet our Gastroenterologists Ragunath Appasamy, MD ..

Samir Ayasso, MD ................

Leonard Baidoo, MD..............

Parth Bharill, MD....................

Satish Kanakamedala, MD..

Hossam Kandil, MD ..............

Pradeep Kumar, MD ..............

Wendy Mikulski, MD ............

Sudhir Narla, MD....................

Hitendra Patel, MD................

Vijay Singh, MD ......................

Adam Slivka, MD....................

Mahesh Varindani, MD ........

Dhiraj Yadav, MD ..................

412-488-7474 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-232-7572 412-683-2488 412-672-5766 724-205-3318 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-672-5766 412-828-0100 412-672-5766

1-800-533-UPMC

7

UPMC McKeesport 1500 Fifth Ave. McKeesport, PA 15132

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them.

UPMC McKeesport physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

news

McKeesport

Regis McLaughlin Appointed New Mayor

By Jamie Ward cKeesport City Council appointed Regis McLaughlin as the new mayor on December 1. McLaughlin, 76, will finish the remaining year of former mayor Jim Brewster's term. He was voted in 7-0 by the council, after Brewster's tearful resignation speech on Wednesday.

“I was very excited, and very happy,” says McLaughlin, who wants to continue Brewster's plans for the municipality but also has some of his own, including bringing new tax base to the municipality as well as developing recreational sites in the community.

The continued development of the “brownfield” site and the flyover ramp that is currently being built to allow access to the Industrial Center of McKeesport “adds jobs and tax base back to the hub of the Mon Valley,” says City Administrator Dennis Pittman. ETQ and Solar Power Industries are the two companies slated to move in next year and bring new jobs with them.

Plans to extend the Charles D. Lickert Memorial Nature/Fitness Trail in Renziehausen Park, the addition of a dog park, and plans to light the existing youth ballfields are all “I want everyone to projects on the horizon for McLaughlin. know that I'm a McLaughlin is a life-long resident of McKeesport. After graduating from McKeesport High School in 1952, he served in the U.S. Army at Fort Knox, driving tanks. very hard worker McLaughlin worked at U.S. Steel Corporation's National Works for 30 years, serving as a and very dedicated supervisor for the last nine of those years until the company closed. The former U.S. Steel Corp. mill site is now the Industrial Center of McKeesport, which McLaughlin plans to to the city of further develop.

McKeesport.”

Since 1991 McLaughlin has been serving on the Municipal Authority of the City of — Mayor McLaughlin McKeesport (MACM). His first stint on council was replacing Councilman Jim Hanick, who had passed away. He has been voted into council in 1999, 2003, and 2007. In 2003, he was elevated to council president.

In 2005 McLaughlin became chairman of the MACM, where has worked to keep up the Act 537 standards of the Commonwealth.

He has also been involved in the source separation of rain water, the storm-water project, and the expansion of the plant to accommodate it. He helped position the Municipal Authority to acquire the Municipal Authority of Duquesne and is in negotiations to complete the acquisition of Dravosburg. His accomplishments also include assisting and mitigating Elizabeth Townships DEP compliance and the acquisition of a new river rescue boat that he plans to dedicate in the spring with the city of McKeesport’s fire department.

“Keeping the budget flowing” is what McLaughlin considers to be his main obstacle as mayor. He says he will keep an open-door policy with all employees. “Being with U.S. Steel for 30 years taught me a lot about both sides—union and management,” he says, hoping to create an environment where all employees feel comfortable coming to him with any problems.

McLaughlin, a widower, has one daughter, Deborah Bazzone, who is married and lives in Clearwater, Fla. His granddaughter, Lindsey Bazzone, is in her fourth year of medical school at Tulane University. His grandson, Michael Bazzone, is a graduate of George Washington University and is living in Washington, D.C., working in the computer field.

McLaughlin is a member of the American Legion Post 361 and has been an attendant of St. Martin De Porres Church in McKeesport.

After a review of the most recent city council election results, the council approved Councilman Dale McCall to fill McLaughlin’s vacant seat. Former council vice president Mike Cherpko will serve as acting president until council meets on January 5 for a reorganization meeting.

M

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

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30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

McKeesport

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news

McKeesport

Holidays Te Patr d Kuhars ick M k ercu i, rio

McKeesport sure knows how to kick off the holiday season! Families, friends and neighbors lined Fifth Avenue for a perfect view of the community's “Salute to Santa� parade. Afterwards, children were invited to lunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Palisades, where they enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of holiday music, crafts, lots of goodies, and time to share their Christmas wishes with Santa. Dorothy Kuharski was the r e t lead organizer of the day's events, which were ugh is dadren h h l t i i h sponsored by the city, the n ger w andc t Ya y and grla & Rya l a W Palisades and McKee's Cafe.

Holl y, Kay Co d

Chris Gavin &

Boswa

y McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

news Festival of Trees

McKeesport

McKeesport’s

Celebrates its Silver Anniversary

McKeesport’s 25th Annual Festival of Trees took place December 3 through December 7. 57 trees were sponsored by local business and non-profit organizations at Renzie Park's Jacob Woll Pavilion. According to Pat Harris, Chairperson of the Festival, “turnout this year has been really good.”

“We tried to make it a silver and white 25th anniversary theme,” says Jim Brown, parks and recreation director.

Brown, along with many other volunteers, has been working to put the event together since September.

The five-day event draws large crowds from the McKeesport area who come to partake in the festivities.

On the schedule for this year were “Sleighay Rides through a candle-lit park” put on by McKeesport Public Works, refreshments provided by McKeesport Alumni and Friends and entertainment provided by McKeesport Band students and local singers.

l a v i t Fes Kids 12 and under were allowed to forgo the entry fee of $2 by bringing a canned good to be donated to the Intersection.

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McKeesport

Bill Barnes

Joanne Wa kefield from Joint and Barb Procup Taskforce

s e e r fo T on , Chairpers Pat Harrisival of Trees of Fest wn, and Jim BdroDirector Re Parks and

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

news

McKeesport

Shallow Gas Well Lease Helps Community 34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

McKeesport

cKeesport is not a community to let opportunity go to waste, so when it was discovered that land next to Renzie Park might contain shallow-depth natural gas deposits, city officials wanted to learn more. John Hazi, Senior Land Agent with Penneco Oil Company in Delmont, said moving forward on freeing that gas, if it indeed exists, is a fairly straightforward process.

“What we have is a shallow lease. We have a depth restriction that means we’re only permitted to drill to a certain depth. This isn’t Marcellus Shale drilling, although McKeesport would retain the rights to that,” Hazi said. “The site is 26 acres and, depending on how we do with our surveys, we could be looking at two or three wells.”

Hazi said the site would be fully surveyed, and permits and bonding would all be in place so that the equipment can be moved onsite. Over a 5-day drilling period, an overall picture of the well’s potential will materialize. Then a fracturing, or fracking, process may begin, whereby services come in to crack the sand formations, allowing the gas to escape. After the well’s completion, Hazi said, it’s hoped that it can be taken to market with Equitable Gas. “If the well’s successful, we’d want to pursue it to its fullest potential,” Hazi said. If the wells are successful, and the sites are found to yield gas deposits, the wells could produce gas for decades to come.

“We’ve done some geological evaluation of the site, but we still don’t know 100 percent what we’ll hit,” Hazi said. “We’re hopefully looking at, conservatively, 50 thousand cubic feet per day, or mcf. That depletes naturally over time and in 10 years, it might be say 35 mcf per day and drop an mcf per year after that.

Those are totally hypothetical numbers, but it gives people an idea of how this process works.” Hazi said that Penneco has wells on the books that are in excess of 100 years old that still generate 5 mcf per day.

Once those wells are totally depleted, they are plugged according to state specifications, leaving behind, essentially, a vent coming out of the ground. It’s a small reminder of the resources that that site has given up through the years, and makes shallow-depth drilling so popular in more urban areas.

Hazi said some Penneco’s wells are located in the Penn Hills and Plum school districts and on church properties around the region.

In McKeesport, the property may be added to Renzie Park existing 200-plus acres, creating the opportunity for extended trails and even a dog park.

“It’s very common nowadays,” he said. “It just so happens that these areas hold some really good potential for gas that hasn’t been exploited in the past. We’re finding success in these areas and always looking for drillable properties, especially throughout the McKeesport area.”

M

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Servingnews the Mon McKeesport

Serving The Mon Valley City of McKeesport

White Oak Borough

Borough of Dravosburg

500 Fifth Avenue McKeesport, PA 15132 412.675.5020 Fax: 412.675.5049 www.mckeesport.org Mayor: Regis McLaughlin

2280 Lincoln Way White Oak, PA 15131 412.672.9727 Fax: 412.672.0760 www.woboro.com Mayor Ina Jean Marton

226 Maple Avenue Dravosburg, PA 15034 412.466.5200 Fax: 412.466.6027 Mayor John Powell

Council: Michael Cherepko Richard Dellapenna Lorretta Diggs Dale McCall Darryl Segina Alfred Tedesco Jr. V. Fawn Walker

Council: Edward Babyak Charles Davis George Dillinger Ronald Massung David Pasternak Kenneth Robb Carrie Verbanick

Police Non Emergency Phone: 412.675.5050

Police Non Emergency Phone: 412.672.9727

Fire Department McKeesport Fire Fighters P.O. Box 15134 412.675.5021 or 412.675.5070

Fire Departments Rainbow Volunteer Fire Company 2916 Jacks Run Road White Oak, PA 15131 412.664.9523

McKeesport Ambulance Rescue Service (MARS) Edwin Coulter, Chairman, McKeesport Ambulance Authority & Emergency Management Coordinator Emergency Phone: 911 Non Emergency Phone: 412.675.5076

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McKeesport

White Oak No. 1 Fire Company 1130 California Ave. White Oak, PA 15131 412.664.4822

Council: Jay McKelvey Michelle Vezzani William Snodgrass, Jr. Barbara Stevenson Greg Wilson South Versailles Township P.O. Box 66 Coulter, PA 15028 Township Secretary: Carla Barron Treasurer: Carol Haines Board of Commissioners: John Warabak William Haywood Edward Kulasa, Jr. Terry Payne David Stockett Versailles Borough 5100 Walnut Street McKeesport, PA 15132 412.751.3922 Fax: 412.751.4430 Mayor James Fleckenstein Joel Yeckel James Sheedy Cheryl D’Antonio Frank Bunda Anita Gricar

Resolve to Keep Your

Resolutions This Year B

efore the last notes of “Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goes silent, chances are you’ll be suckered into making another New Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.

Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit over night are basically unrealistic.

Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps, or realistic approaches to achievement.

Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is a major factor in people not following through with their workout routines.

“Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control your motivation and enthusiasm so you don’t burnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workout program every two to three months.”

Hardt also said that figuring out where cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals.”

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout.

“Most people think that starting out with cardio is good because it helps to warm up muscles before weight training. Other people feel starting out with cardio may cause too much fatigue, which could lower your workout intensity and make lifting with proper form more difficult,” she said.

“Truthfully, there is no right or wrong answer. Different people will need to rotate their routine differently. The best advice is to pay attention to your fitness goals. If you are focused a bit more on endurance try to do your cardio first when you’ll have the most energy. On the other hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass

work the weights first before cardio.”

Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good idea, and while many people make it their New Year’s resolution to get back in shape, experts agree that any health program should be focused on progressive, attainable and realistic goals. However it’s also a great idea not to overindulge during the holidays in the first place.

Gaining 10 pounds after partying for a month, grazing cookies at the office and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for two weeks to negate those calories.

While it’s cliche, moderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray or second glass of wine in the first place.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

WINTER

2010

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38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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Winter Weather Safety Tips @ Have a snack before going outside. It will give you energy and keep your body warmer. @ Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face.

The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. @ Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pants and jackets will keep you dry and warm! @ Never go sled riding alone. Always have a parent supervise. @ When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re playing outside, go inside every once in a while to warm up. @ If you start to shiver or feel numb, go inside right away and tell an adult.

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McKeesport

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It â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Holidays!

Find each of these words in this puzzle.

Easy Ideas for Creating Custom, Memorable Holiday Cards Even with the popularity of using e-mail, social media, and texting to communicate with friends and family, holiday cards continue to be a time-honored tradition. In fact, according to a survey from holiday cards and thank you cards retailer Cardstore.com, 43 percent of Americans prefer a greeting card from a loved one instead of $10, and 63 percent think sending a special occasion greeting through a social network is inappropriate.

While survey results show most people prefer to receive holiday cards, people mistakenly think that creating these custom cards is time consuming. Thanks to technology, new products, and online greeting card sites, this isn’t necessarily the case. By following the tips below, creating custom, personalized holiday cards can be easy, fun, and inexpensive.

Picture Perfect – Getting a perfect holiday picture does not have to involve a three-hour photo shoot with an expensive photographer. Oftentimes the best holiday shots are the candid, everyday ones shot at home. For professionallooking DIY images, use natural light (if indoors, shoot near a window), get up close, and have the subjects involved in a favorite activity. Laugh, have fun, and shoot away. Even if the shots aren’t perfect, use photo editing software – sometimes just simply changing the image to black and white or cropping out unwanted parts can transform the image.

Source: Cardstore.com

Let Your Child Be the Artist – Instead of uploading a favorite photo for holiday cards, simply scan a child’s favorite drawing and quickly upload to a photo greeting card site. This is an especially cute idea for classroom or grandparent holiday cards.

Collage Card – Instead of spending hours deciding which photo to feature for the holiday card, just choose several photos taken throughout the year that highlight favorite adventures and memories. Visit a favorite online card store and select one of the many templates available.

Keep It Simple

– Scour the crafting and dollar stores where there are a variety of inexpensive products to make handmade cards. Use blank cards and embellish with just one or two items – any more and it can be daunting, especially if more than 50 cards need to be made. For instance, punch out polka dots in festive holiday papers using a circle punch and adhere them to the card front in a random, whimsical pattern. Or, run a piece of grosgrain ribbon across the front of card and adhere a glittered embellishment or button.

Use a Kit – For those who lack the creative bug or are really strapped for time, use pre-assembled DIY holiday card kits.

Cardstore.com has embellished card kits that combine the time-saving elements of digital photo cards with the personal, handcrafted touch of dimensional accents. Order the photo cards online. Once they arrive, decorate the cards with the provided coordinating stamps, gems, and glitter glue.

Tips and creative inspiration included and no extra trip to the craft store needed!

By following these tips, you can create easy, thoughtful and meaningful holiday cards that share the festive joys of the season.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

Have a Holiday Heart-to-Heart Look at your family's past to prevent type 2 diabetes in your future

The holidays are known as a time for family gatherings, catching up with relatives, and sometimes even the occasional family conflict. Like drama at the holiday dinner table, in many ways your health - for better or for worse - is influenced by your family. This year, why not start a conversation that benefits everyone? Gather your family health history.

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McKeesport

Why it's important Family history of disease is an important part of understanding your risk for developing a number of serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is a serious disease that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems including blindness, loss of limb, kidney failure, heart disease, and early death. In fact, most people with type 2 diabetes have a family member â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as a mother, father, brother, or sister â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with the disease.

The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) encourages all families to gather their family health history this holiday season and help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in future generations.

By knowing your family health history, sharing it with your health care team, and taking important steps such as maintaining a healthy weight or losing a small amount of weight if you are overweight, making healthy food choices, and being physically active, you can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes (as well as other serious diseases) and help ensure that you will be enjoying holiday family gatherings for years to come.

Four questions you should ask The answers to these key questions could help you prevent type 2 diabetes in your future.

1. Does anyone in the family have type 2 diabetes?

Who has type 2 diabetes?

2. Has anyone in the family been told they might get diabetes?

3. Has anyone in the family been told they need to lower their weight or increase their physical activity to prevent type 2 diabetes?

4. Did your mother get diabetes when she was pregnant? This is also known as gestational diabetes (GDM).

If the answer to any of these is yes, or you have a mother, father, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Talk to your doctor and visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org to learn more about managing your risk and preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes.

Your history affects your child's future While you're gathering your family's history, you need to take your own into consideration as well.

Gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and affects about 7 percent of all U.S. pregnancies - or about 200,000 pregnancies each year. If you had gestational diabetes when you were pregnant, you and your child have a lifelong risk for getting diabetes.

Women with a history of gestational diabetes have a 40 to 60 percent chance of developing diabetes in the 5 to 10 years after delivery.

The children of pregnancies where the mother had gestational diabetes are also at increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Women who have had gestational diabetes should be tested for diabetes six to 12 weeks after their baby is born, and at least every three years after that. Mothers should let their child's doctor know that they had gestational diabetes.

Women with a history of gestational diabetes can lower their risk for developing diabetes by making an effort to reach and maintain a healthy weight, making healthy food choices, and being active for at least 30 minutes, five days a week.

Keeping a healthy lifestyle helps mother and child lower their risk for getting diabetes in the future.

For a free tip sheet on gestational diabetes, including steps to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, call the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) at 1-888-693-NDEP (6337) or visit its website at www.YourDiabetesInfo.org.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors In addition to family history and gestational diabetes, there are other factors that increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

If one or more of the following items apply to you, be sure to talk with your health care team about your risk for developing type 2 diabetes and whether you should be tested.

- I am 45 years of age or older.

- I have been told by my doctor to lose weight.

- My family background is African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander.

- I have been told that my blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are higher than normal.

- My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, or I have been told that I have high blood pressure.

- My cholesterol (lipid) levels are not normal. My HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) is less than 35 or my triglyceride level is higher than 250.

- I am physically active less than three times a week.

Cumin Pork and Sweet Potatoes with Spiced Butter

Serves 4 2 8-ounce sweet potato es, pierced in several areas with fork 1/2 teaspoon ground cum in Paprika to taste 4 4-ounce boneless por k cutlets, trimmed of fat

Topping 2 tablespoons reduced-fat margarine 2 tablespoons packed dar k brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, butter, and nut flavoring 1/8 teaspoon ground nutme g 4 small oranges, quartered Cook potatoes in microwave on HIGH setting for 10 to 11 minutes or until fork tender.

- I have been told that I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

- The skin around my neck or in my armpits appears dirty no matter how much I scrub it. The skin appears dark, thick, and velvety.

- I have been told that I have blood vessel problems affecting my heart, brain, or legs.

Losing weight by making healthy food choices is one way to help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Serve your family a quick and healthy dish like this as you gather around the holiday dinner table.

Copyright (c) 2010 American Diabetes Association.

From 15-Minute Diabetic Meals. Reprinted with permission from The American Diabetes Association. To order this book, call 1-800-232-6733 or order online at http://store.diabetes.org. Main Image: Photo courtesy of Getty Images. All materials courtesy of: National Diabetes Education Program

Meanwhile, place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot . Sprinkle cumin and paprika evenly over pork cho ps and season lightly with salt and pepper if desired. Cook pork chops 4 minutes on each sid e or until barely pink in center.

In small bowl, stir together topping ingredients until well blended.

Cut potatoes in half length wise, fluff with a fork, and spoon equal amoun ts topping mixture on each half. Serve with qua rtered oranges alongside.

Nutritional Information: Cal ories 335, Calories from Fat 90, Total Fat 10.0 g, Saturated Fat 3.4 g, Trans Fat 0.0 g, Cholester ol 60 mg, Sodium 125 mg, Total Carbohydrate 37 g, Dietary Fiber 5 g, Sugars 22 g, Protein 24 g

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Older Adults inMcKeesport Tax Planning for The New Year

A

mericans filing federal returns can expect year-end tax planning to be a bit more complicated this time around because we don't know what the tax rates will be for 2011 just yet. The current rates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001, are due to expire on Dec. 31 of this year.

So when the new rates get passed, taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared.

"For this year," said Marzina, “it's very important that people be paying attention to what happens in the political spectrum in terms of tax rates for the new year and to make sure you have your advisers lined up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.”

Each year, an individual is allowed to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill out a gift tax return, which goes against the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Right now, this is not determined.

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So you could give gifts of up to $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay a tax on it. According to the IRS, You can't deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left to a charitable organization.

Federal estate taxes may have been repealed for 2010, but they are set to return on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% on estates valued at more than $1 million.

In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all assets got a “step-up” in basis when someone died. This meant that no tax would have to be paid on appreciated assets like stock and real estate. But under new laws, all assets inherited may be subject to the capital gains tax.

If the current administration's proposal to allow rates to expire and return to 2009's rate, the “step-up” in basis will return. Another proposal is to have most of the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and taxes on dividends and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. The Republican proposal is to extend current tax rates for a period of two years and cap dividends and capital gains at 15%.

McKeesport

by Jamie Ward

Marzina says that the question many people are asking is, if you have assets that have significant capital gains built in,

should you accelerate taxes and sell those assets in 2010 to ensure a 15% tax rate instead of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%?

The problem here is that taxpayers won’t have a lot of time to make these decisions. According to Marzina, if the new tax laws are in place by Dec. 1, there will only be a 30-day window to make any decisions this year. So the best thing to do is make those decisions as quickly as possible.

SeniorAgencies Mon-Valley Center/ Boomer's Café 624 Lysle Boulevard, Senior Care Plaza–412.664.5434 401 Ninth Street–McKeesport 412.664.5434 New Traditions–412.664.5434 627 Market St., McKeesport

Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify.

Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit

lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area.

Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460

How to Prevent Injury this Winter

by Jamie Ward

ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away the golf clubs and short-sleeve shirts and break out the jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety.

According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's the number one cause of injury related deaths.

So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter.

• Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather.

• Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways.

• Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it.

• If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.

And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, as a family member or neighbor to help you.

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Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults?

We would be happy to post your contact information.

Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

Don’t Let Winter Slow A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.

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interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather. But there are some things that are just good sense.

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• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start up times until your engine is properly lubricated.

If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months.

• Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them.

A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down.

If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have

McKeesport

❆ Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions

You Down a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves.

• If you don’t have jumper cables, get some!

Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress.

Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. However, you can’t eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

A neighborhood nursing home filled with quality, compassion and genuine friendliness.

Call or stop in for a tour Specializing in: • Recuperation • Residential Living • Rehabilitation • Respite

800 Elsie Street, Turtle Creek, PA 15145 412-825-9000 www.lgar.org

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

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McKeesport

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marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com

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