FALL 2010
urrysville
SERVING THE RESIDENTS OF
MURRYSVILLE, DELMONT AND EXPORT
Franklin Regional is a Professional Learning Community!
ALSO INSIDE:
Older Adults in Murrysville Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Plus:
Planning Your Way to College
Introducing a health plan option for small business designed to save green. asy to use, conomical and Environmentally friendly.
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Shouldn’t the people who insure your health understand it? This managed care plan may not cover all your health care expenses. Read your contract carefully to determine which health care services are covered. If you have questions, call Member Services at 1-888-876-2756.
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Contents Murrysville | FALL 2010 |
FA L L 2 0 1 0
H ealth and W ellness N ews Y ou Can Use For residents of eastern communities
What’s Inside page 2
6
3 3
1 0 Publisher’s Message
C O M
M
U N IT Y
IN T E R E S T
|
|
2 1
Play I t S afe ©
Kick off the fall sports season and keep your kids in the game with this guide to help prevent sports injuries. (page 3) 2 010 UPMC
UPMC E y e Ce n t e r Mo n r o e v i l l e O f f e r s a Cl e a r Ch o i c e i n R e f r a c t i v e S u r g e r y T i p s f o r Ch o o s i n g a n E y e S u r g e o n
page 3
Pl a y I t S a f e UPMC E y e Ce n t e r Mo n r o e v i l l e Is G r o w in g
page 4
A r e Y o u Co n c u s s i o n - S a v v y ? S c h o o l L u n c h e s T h a t Ma k e t h e G r a d e
page 5
W h o K n e w R e h a b Co u l d B e S o Mu c h F u n ?
page 6
A N e w E ra o f T re a tm e n t fo r H i g h - R i s k Pr e g n a n c i e s
page 7
F o r t h e Pe r f e c t I n s i d e V i e w : H i g h - T e c h I m a g i n g i n Mo n r o e v i l l e
4
Franklin Regional School District Superintendent’s Message | 3 0
|
Strategic Plan and Changes in the Elementary School | 3 2 Introducing Franklin Regional’s New Special Education Director | 3 3 Senior High Schedule Changes | 3 4
Murrysville Public Library UPMC Today
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3 8
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 2 1 F E A T U R E S
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Automated Hell Forever on Hold | 5
|
Education Update
|
Planning Your Way to College | 6 Moms Returning to School | 8 Secrets of a Successful Middle School Student | 9 Alternatives to College | 3 6
Older Adults in Murrysville
|
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation | 1 0 IN D U S T R Y
IN S IG H T S
|
Arden Courts
|
What is Alzheimer’s Disease? | 1 6
Allegheny Hearing
|
Take the Hearing Health Quick Test | 2 0
CCP Pediatrics
|
Out of the Pool... And into School | 4 6 O N
T H E
C O V E R
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Back Row: (L to R): Kathy Deuel, Nancy Teper, Lora Murray, Midge Shigle, Bob Duffy, Julie Babal, Ian Fielder, Jim Passarelli, Domenic Colangelo, Ron Suvak, Jeff Poole 4th Row: Brandi Lux, Jennifer Difulvio, Lynn Skoff, Catherine Repucci, Julie Shank, Carol Schneider, Brett Thompson, Tina Burns, Joan Mellon, Jennifer Landsberg, Jennifer See, Karen Sinning, Marie Romanelli 3rd Row: Pam Seymour, Karen Connors, Kim Orr, Errin Kilbury, Lori Whitesel, Brandon Aganad 2nd Row: Sam King, Tina Gillen, Judy Morrison, Tina Sauers, Kristi Loyal, Camille MacRae, Chris Kelly, Todd Binnig Front Row: Richard Regelski; Shelley Shaneyfelt; Herb Yingling, School Board President; Dr. D’Arcangelo,Superintendent; Paul Scheinert, School Board Vice-President; Charles Koren
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it. Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
urrysville F A L L 2 0 1 0
Welcome to the fall issue of Murrysville. As summer winds down, I hope that you and your family had some time to get away and enjoy yourselves—even if it was for the day at some local hidden treasure spot. Those are the places we love to highlight in these pages. I met one of our readers while I was finishing up some business with one of the municipalities we serve. He was sitting at a picnic table nea r a veterans’ monument under a pristine blue sky on a quiet and hot July day. The man recognized my photo from the magazine and said his dad used to enjoy reading about local things. He explained that his father had passed away several years ago. He pointed to the monument and said his father never spoke about the war, but always talked about some close friends he served with that didn’t come home. “I c ome by here about once a week or so to enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the birds,” he said. “We miss him, but here I know that he’s catching up with some old friends.” To say that I was touched would be an understatement, but you can see how this one little area can mean so much to someone. Tell us about places that are special to you – places with history and a story behind them. Send your story to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or mail them to Community Magazines, 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317.
I N M urrysville is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Franklin Regional School District and its 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. P U B L IS H E R
Wayne Dollard A S S IS T A N T T O
T H E
M
A N A G IN G
E D IT O R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O FFI C E
M
A N A G E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com W
R IT E R S
Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Josh Wetmore G R A P H IC
D E S IG N
Cassie Brkich Amante D’Albora Susie Doak Pati Ingold
Wayne Dollard Publisher
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco
P H O T O G R A P H E R S
Garyyonphotography.com A D V E R T IS IN G
In this fall edition of Murrysville you’ll find interesting topics related to education. We thought it was appropriate to address this issue as all of us can somehow relate to the “back to school” idea. The notion of continually learning something new whether in middle school or as an older adult in the Murrysville community, is not a new concept, just one we should consider as the seasons change. A new feature we have begun in this edition is entitled Older Adults in Murrysville. We address the subject of scams how older adults can learn to protect themselves. I heard of a couple who was scammed on the phone not too long ago I was so disturbed by the fact that there are dishonest people who can find personal information about your family via the social networking sites and use it to your take your identity, money and other possessions. Please be careful when speaking to anyone by phone who calls you. Even if you think you know them, verify the information before disclosing anything! Hope you enjoy this new feature and am looking for other interesting topics that are important to Older Adults. If you would kindly email me with your suggestions to me at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com I would so grateful!
P U B L IS H E R
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com
S A L E S
Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Linda Mitchell Gina D’Alicandro Tamara Myers Liz Dodson Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Annette Petrone Rose Estes 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. C O R R E S P O N D E N C E All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: I N C om m unit y M ag az ines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Winter content deadline:10/21 www.incommunitymagazines.com
4
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Murrysville
A
s a catholic, I firmly believe that if you are forced to deal with an automated operator for more than 10 minutes, it should
automatically be credited towards time in purgatory. And if you can accomplish this without throwing the phone against the wall, you should at least be considered for canonization. The strange thing is, if I am calling to subscribe to their services or upgrade my account, there are 346 cheerful operators eagerly standing by to take my call. But if I have a problem with billing, a technical question or need repairs, I hear, “Please hold and the next available representative will be with you shortly,” while I wait for one of the three customer service agents in North America to answer my question. Next I am asked to enter my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code, only to have Phyllis eventually answer my call and ask for my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code. Do they do that just to keep you busy? I’m not sure. Then as further protection, I am asked for my mother’s maiden name, my aunt’s street address and the exact measurement of my third molar. All of this precaution is in case there are evil forces who might want to find out if I have call waiting or how many channels I receive. But while I wait for Phyllis, I am treated to 15th century Bulgarian chamber music, interrupted every 20 seconds by a voice saying, “Did you know that you can check your account online at www.Don’tBotherUs.com?” Strangely, I would rather just listen to the Bulgarian chamber music without the interruptions. Or just stick forks into my eyes repeatedly. And instead of an annoying woman’s voice, can’t I at least listen to Gerard Butler’s sexy Scottish accent? Or perhaps Antonio Banderas’ liquid Latino purr? Why must this annoying woman answer the phone no matter where I call? And how much is she getting paid? Is it more or less than $40,000 a year? Could I perhaps be the new automated woman voice? Do I have what it takes? Why don’t tornadoes happen in the winter? Could ice cream be considered a breakfast food? It does have milk in it… These are the things that I think about while I am on the phone waiting…
By Pamela Palongue
Automated voices seem to have pervaded every area of our lives. Recently I was taken aback when I called my doctor’s office for lab results after my yearly check-up and was told to call another number where an automated operator coldly gave me the lab numbers with no explanation of what they meant. It is entirely possible that I have Feldspar Disease or cataracts because I don’t have a clue. What’s next, being informed you have a serious disease via an automated operator? For diabetes, press 1. For an insulin prescription, press 2. To freak out that you have diabetes, press 3. For more information on managing your diabetes, try the internet, watch Oprah, ask your next door neighbor, the guy on the bus or just anyone so we don’t have to talk to you. We hate people. Thank you for calling. Goodbye. What has happened to us? Why do we hate talking to each other? Someone, somewhere has to make a stand by taking that first phone call. What if everyone in the entire nation just agreed to start answering their phones tomorrow? When that phone rings, just pick it up and bravely say, “Hello.” Sure the other person may hang up on us or even scream at us, but be strong. They can’t reach through that phone line and ring your neck no matter how threatening they sound. And the world will be a better place that you stood up to that phone and showed it who’s boss. And while we’re on the subject of improving our world, can’t we all just agree to start the workday at 10 a.m.? Would anyone really mind getting a couple of extra hours sleep every morning? We could all have ice cream for breakfast. I was just thinking…
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
6
ow important is involvement in extracurricular activities? Is doing volunteer work important? How do GPA and SAT scores factor into acceptance? These are the questions many teens and their parents are pondering as they look into the next phase within the education process – college. By Karen Ferrieri
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There are a ton of resources out there to guide you through the process of ‘getting ready for college,’ but this process can be very overwhelming. Many people search online for answers and you can definitely find a number of websites online such as www.ehow.com to help guide you through the process. Ehow.com reads like a ‘how to get into college’ instruction manual.
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Work with your school guidance counselor to plan
your classes. Plan out your classes carefully. Take the most challenging course work you can because college admission counselors would rather see you tackle harder courses than to settle for easier courses just to get higher grades. They look for overall grade trends and class rank. Be careful though not to take too many or to set yourself up for failure. Nail your PSATs, SATs and ACT exams. Get involved in extracurricular activities in your school and community. Stay committed to following through for a few months or years with that activity. Develop a theme that runs through your high school years with the classes and activities that you participate in. For instance, if you love to paint, take art classes at school, volunteer with organizations that promote art awareness, etc. Plan your summer with college in mind. Stay active and consider what your theme is and stay involved with things that are in line with the theme. Get to know key people at the college that you want to attend.
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While all of the information out there is readily available, if you do have questions or run into stumbling blocks along the way, Following these steps will enable you to have a college your high school guidance counselor is there to assist you application worthy of acceptance. throughout the process as well. Make sure you have a target list of schools that Mr. Bob Atkins, Director of contains three tiers that you go after. Admissions for Washington and Your first tier is your safety schools, Jefferson College summed it up pretty those that you feel strongly you will get simply. “Most colleges are looking accepted to. The second tier on the list for the best fit for the college.” For contains your target schools, those instance, he said, “While academics schools that you really would like are important, extracurricular to go to, however you have to be really involvement, being able to show certain to meet the grade requirements, leadership ability, employment etc. to make sure that you stand out history and progression of grades against applicants to get accepted. And, are also equally as important.” finally, the third tier is your reach schools, Atkins recommended, “If possible, those schools that really are a far stretch for find out how to get a face-to-face interview with someone you, but that you’d like to at least try to get within the college. Consider when you apply for any college program tiered list of schools accepted to. Having this that the majority of applicants are all 4.0 high school students with that you are applying to will ensure acceptance to a school that you the SAT scores necessary to get them into a great college. So, what are interested in. will make you stand out against them? Then, go out and do Once you have a career path in mind and a few colleges/universiwhat it takes to prove that you have the necessary means to ties that you are considering, do your research and do not be afraid show motivation to succeed and the ability to continue to grow to consult with your guidance counselor, college admission staff within any program. And, while colleges are seeing more and others who currently work within the profession that you are ‘Gap Year’ admission students [those who have chosen to take interested in. You’ll be amazed at how much information and a year off after high school before entering college] they look assistance is out there to help you prepare for college entrance. at those applicants to see what they’ve done during the ‘off’ year that shows productivity.” Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
By Pamela Palongue
With the high rate of unemployment, it will not come as a shock that many mothers are returning to school for more education in order to be more employable and to be able to provide better benefits for their families. What might surprise you is that more than ever, universities, trade and specialty schools are offering extremely flexible schedules and payment plans for the special challenges that moms face in furthering their education. One of the major drawbacks to attending college is the loss of income while in school. Although night classes have been available at most universities for years now, Saturday classes are now becoming more common and many of the schedules include meeting every other weekend. This gives working moms the ability to hold down a day job for 40 hours during the we ek, while still retaining the all-important health insurance benefits for their family while attending college on the weekends. More classes than ever are being offered on Saturdays. And, of course, night classes offer greater flexibility for employed mothers as well. Another challenge for moms attempting to advance their education is finding care for their
child while they are in school. The high cost of daycare can be prohibitive for those already on a tight budget. Many mothers have the advantage of family members close by to pitch in with child care duties, but this may not be practical for some mothers whose parents or in-laws live hours away. One great way to resolve this issue is to trade babysitting time. When mothers coordinate their class schedules, they can attend classes at opposite times so th e other mother can babysit both mothers’ children. Another great way to overcome the high cost of daycare is to trade services. An individual may be willing to provide child care in exchange for house cleaning or having errands performed. Retired individuals who have the most flexible hours are a great solution in this arrangement. For some, completing a four year college may not be practical either for time considerations or financial reasons. There are many careers available with educational programs that are less than two years. Education and the medical field consistently rank highest for career fields experiencing the most growth.
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For individuals who already have a four-year degree, universities offer a teaching program that can be completed in one year. Although a bachelor of science in nursin g is a four year degree program, some local hospitals offer two year nursing programs sans the degree. Some of these facilities offer free education in exchange for two years of devoted service at their facility. For even shorter programs in the medical field, medical assistants and emergency medical technicians offer alternatives. Local EMT programs last approximately four months and the tuition is under $200. In addition to the abovementioned career fields, information technology, massage therapists, barbers, cosmetologists and medical insurance billing all offer programs with shorter duration for busy moms and most offer payment options so that upfront payment of full tuition is not required. Each woman’s path to educational advancement is different, but perseverance is the common denominator. With dedication and hard work, every woman can accomplish her goals. And now more than ever, there are many avenues to achieving your dream.
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When a preteen leaves elementary school behind to move on to the middle grades, the transition can be a daunting one. The building’s bigger, and it houses more students. All of the new experiences can add up to a trying time for incoming students. Most middle graders are anxious about the change that is coming. Going beyond the safety net of elementary school is sometimes hard for a child. Along with the physical, emotional, and social changes they bring, the middle school years can be difficult for a child. Experts agree that a middle school program that emphasizes the importance of addressing any remedial needs is important. The opportunities to do so beyond middle school are few and far between. Honing basic math and reading skills are particularly important. Reading is really the first step towards independent learning. In addition to taking more challenging classes, middle school students also get instruction from a wider variety of teachers, an experience many students relish. Middle school also gives students the chance to explore extracurricular activities like athletics and the arts. Middle school brings adjustments beyond the classroom as well. Changes in the brain can prompt changes in behavior and emotions. The social climate evolves as well, with students meeting an entirely new pool of classmates. Fortunately, parents can take steps to make the transition to middle school a smooth one. The first step is to help students build a good foundation for keeping track of assignments and completing them. Students need to develop a set of study and organizational skills at this age. Students can build those skills by using the assignment book they’re given on the first day of class, for starters. It is also suggested that parents schedule one hour of non-negotiable homework time. Even if a student doesn’t
assignmen • Use an By Kelli McElhinny r of le one hou r day u d e h c S • time pe have any assignments on a particular In helping their homework ts n e m day, that time can be used to plan children conquer middle n ig ls for ass a o g t ahead or review the day’s lessons, school, parents’ efforts e S • for example. Goal-setting, with a focus on short-term objectives rather than long-term ones, also is a priority. As far as the social changes go, parents should be accepting as their children place a greater emphasis on relationships with peers rather than those with family members. Parents should be available, but not nosy, regarding a student’s business.
will endure beyond the eighth grade. Students who are successful in middle school generally can go on to be successful in high school and beyond. Mastering the social and organizational skill set is of utmost importance to a student’s success.
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Retirement;
it’s a stage of life that many people look forward to. It’s a chance to relax, and finally accomplish lifelong goals. It can also be an opportunity to make up for lost time with family and friends. For many, however, retirement can mean having so much time with so little to do, and often no longer having a job can lead to no longer have a sense of accomplishment or self worth. There is a solution to the problem though. Volunteering can not only give retired senior citizens a new sense of purpose but it can also help the community, the economy, and the future of the country. “There is just talk about, as the economy continues to be on a bit of a downslide, how important volunteers are,” said Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Pennsylvania executive counsel. “Lots of older consumers have really wonderful skills and backgrounds that can be of benefit.” by Josh Wetmore Volunteer opportunities for senior citizens in the Pittsburgh area can range from helping deliver survey conducted by the Investor • When dealing with a financial planner mail at a hospital to working with high school Protection Trust in May 2010 revealed that or retirement advisor, make sure that both students in a classroom environment through the over 7.3 million senior citizens in the U.S. have they and what they are selling are registered University of Pittsburgh’s “Generations Together” “been taken advantage of financially in terms of with the state of Pennsylvania. To check on program. an inappropriate investment, unreasonably high the registration and history of a salesperson, “Volunteering makes people feel good, but it fees for financial services, or outright fraud.” financial plan, or product call either the not only is self serving to that degree that you’re That equates to about one in five senior citizens Pennsylvania Insurance Commission at who have been scammed. 1.877.881.6388 or the Pennsylvania Securities happy about doing something that you enjoy personally, but the beneficiaries of that Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Commission at 1.800.600.0007. volunteerism gain so much,” Bach, a senior citizen Pennsylvania executive counsel, said that fraud • Discuss what you are thinking of herself, said. against senior citizens can come in just about doing with a trusted friend or family Some other ways for senior citizens to get any form. Some of the more popular scams member before making any final decisions. involved are through senior citizen organizations include lottery scams, sweepstake scams, email Two heads are better than one and such as AARP and The Senior Source. Many local scams, charity scams, and even jury duty scams. someone might recognize a red flag that libraries also offer volunteer positions. “Caution and moving slowly are paramount you didn’t see. AARP’s “Create the Good” program is focused in any of these situations. And not allowing • Sign up for both the state and national on helping senior citizens find volunteer yourself to be pressured into giving either ‘do not call’ lists. These will weed out opportunities that will fit their schedule, meet personal information or any amount of money most legitimate solicitors so if a soliciting their personal interests, and help their community. without doing your own personal due diligence call gets through, there is already a To get involved with “Create the Good,” go to or homework on the issue,” Bach said about warning sign. www.createthegood.org or call 1.800.556.0242. how to generally avoid scams. • Remember the adage “If it sounds Here are some other tips Bach gives to help too good to be true, it probably is.” senior citizens better avoid scams and fraud: • Don’t give money to a charity over the B y n t Susan Lynn w n e hS o o i n t m phone. Ask them to mail you something. This Realtor® pA p gives time to research the charity. Chances are, • Top producer at Murrysville office for if the charity is just a scam they won’t send you past 12 years anything anyway. • More than $10 million of sales in 2009 • Always be wary of any letter, email, or • 19 years of experience phone call that requires an immediate or • Susan is dedicated, full quick response. If there isn’t enough time time, knowledgeable & committed to carefully consider a proposition before Call me today for your committing to it, there is probably a reason. FREE Market Analysis,
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Senior Agencies
Jeannette Senior Center c/o Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Gaskill & Third Streets Jeannette, PA 15644 Phone: 724.527.3200
T ransp ort at ion F or O lder A dult s There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify. M edic al A ssist anc e T ransp ort at ion P rog ram ( M A T P ) 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. F ree B us P ass f or S enior C it iz ens 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. O lder P ersons T ransp ort at ion 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.
A C C E S S 6 5 P lus and A C C E S S A D A P rog ram 4 1 2 . 5 6 2 . 5 3 5 3 or T D D 1 . 8 0 0 . 6 5 4 . 5 9 8 4 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area. It serves primarily senior citizens and persons with disabilities. There are no restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their vehicle with others traveling in the same direction and at the same time. 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.
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Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 1
Paradise
in the middle of Murrysville One of Pittsburgh’s loveliest hidden treasures is Plumline Nursery located high on a ridge in Murrysville. This garden center is a number one destination for plant lovers but it is so much more than a garden center. Make the trip to see it and you’ll be glad you did as you stroll along beautiful pathways bordered by mature and rare plant trees and shrubs. There are ponds and waterfalls and a fantastic view from one of the highest points in the Murrysville/Monroeville area. Creator and master plantsman Bill Tribou began dreaming about starting a nursery at age 28. He had no real advantage in life but he was a creative genius who understood commitment to a project and so… with the 1.7 acre plot of woods that he inherited from his late father, Bill started his nursery in 1974. He cut down a few trees, spread some wood chips, purchased 24 rhododendrons and lined them out in 2 neat rows. He married Karen in 1975 and the two teamed up to grow the little nursery into the extraordinary gem that it is today. Bill and Karen built a log cabin home in 1978 (from a kit delivered to the property - $13,500 was the cost). Along came children Melody and Micah who were raised in the log cabin in the midst of the nursery business. Bill will tell you that the best way to teach your children a work ethic is to let them live at your place of business. Valuable lessons are learned in that old-fashioned way!
Karen proudly claims that she married an artist who believed that God gave him a wonderful gift: the ability to envision beautiful landscapes where none existed. Those who knew Bill would agree that his uncanny creative talent was genius. The property (now expanded to 23 acres) was once a steep unusable area which has been transformed into a paradise of sorts. Bill and Karen chose the name Plumline for 2 reasons: 1) The property borders Plum and Murrysville and 2) a Bible verse in the book of Amos makes mention of the builder’s tool, a plumline which is used to determine accuracy. The pair based their business upon Biblical principles and give their thanks to the Good Lord for their success. As Plumline began to grow, Bill’s design skills were in great demand as he landscaped his way all around Pittsburgh. Tragedy struck in 1994 when young Bill suffered a serious heart attack. After bypass surgery and a pacemaker, he was back at work beautifying the world around him. Then in 1997. Bill was diagnosed with cancer. That devastating news brought changes to the pace at Plumline and employees and family worried about the future. Not to be stopped, Bill continued to build and dream and create while undergoing difficult chemo treatments and surgeries. He and Karen fought cancer valiantly for 13 years until May 26th of this year when Bill passed away. “My husband and I started a garden center business with nothing but a good work ethic and a dream,” says his wife Karen. “Bill created an incredibly beautiful paradise in the middle of Murrysville... and he did it while fighting cancer and heart disease. I just want the world to know what an incredible man Bill was.”
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T h e T op 4 R easons t o U se a R E / M A X Herit ag e S ales A ssoc iat e 1 . A n A g ent Y ou C an C ount O n One of the most important decisions you’ll make when selling your home is who you will trust to assist you. RE/MAX Heritage Sales Associates will put their experience to work for you to improve your odds of getting your home sold for the best price in the shortest time.
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Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 3
A Bountiful Harvest Export hosts a wonderful farmers market every Tuesday from 4 - 7 p.m. at 5960 Kennedy Ave. Fresh produce, home baked goods and other ready to eat food items are available for sale.
Support local commerce and visit the market!
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C HURCHES S ERVING M URRYSVILLE C alvary L ut h eran C h urc h 724.327.2898 www.calvarylcms.org C h rist ’ s L ut h eran C h urc h 412.795.1212 www.christsmurrysville.org C om m unit y B ap t ist C h urc h (Currently meets in Delmont Fire Hall)
724.953.1098 www.CommBaptistChurch.net C ornerst one M inist ries 724.733.0070 www.cornerstonelive.net C rossroads C h urc h 724.468.8441 www.atthecrossroads.us C rossroads V ineyard C h rist ian F ellow sh ip C h urc h www.thegoodway.com U nit ed C h urc h of C h rist 724.744.4218 www.dmucc.com E ast S ub urb an U nit arian U niversalist C h urc h 724.327.5872 www.esuuc.org
E m m anuel L ut h eran C h urc h 724.327.2190 www.hillschurch.wordpress.com E m m anuel R ef orm ed U nit ed C h urc h of C h rist 724.327.3050 F irst P resb yt erian C h urc h of M urrysville 724.327.0728 www.murrysville.org F irst U nit ed M et h odist C h urc h of M urrysville 724.327.5049 www.murrysvilleumc.org Heb ron C h urc h 412.371.2307 www.hebrononline.org K eyst one C h rist ian C h urc h 724.327.4472 www.keystonechristianchurch.net M ot h er of S orrow s 724.733.8870 www.mother-of-sorrows.org M urrysville A llianc e C h urc h 724.327.7206 www.murrysvillealliancechurch.org
M urrysville B ib le C h ap el 724.733.4083 www.murrysvillebiblechapel.org M urrysville C om m unit y C h urc h 724.327.8411 www.murrysvillechurch.com N ew lonsb urg P resb yt erian C h urc h 724.327.0061 www.Newlonsburgchurch.org N ew B eg inning s B ap t ist C h urc h 724.327.7245 www.newbeginningsbaptistchurch.org S aint M ary C h urc h 724.327.0647 www.sjdls.org S t . A lb an’ s E p isc op al C h urc h 724.325.2727 S t . J oh n B ap t ist de la S alle 724.325.2727 www.sjdls.org W ord & W orsh ip C h urc h 412.824.1616 www.wordandworship.org W ord of G rac e F ellow sh ip 724.468.6894
If your church is missing from this list, please email mark@incommunitymagazines.com.
Who Wants to Be Preached To?
Jack Wilson, Pastor New Covenant Presbyterian Church Monroeville, PA
I think it would be difficult to find a person who did not agree with the statement, “I do not like to be preached to.” However, what I think they really mean is, “I do not like to be preached at.” “So what’s the difference?” you ask? I believe that when most people think of somebody preaching to them they think of someone who does not really know them, does not really care about them, and is offering unwanted, if not downright meddling, correction. Who would want that!? Let’s face it, a lot of that goes on in our world and too much in our churches. But true biblical preaching is not like that. In the first place, though a preacher might not know everyone in the audience personally, he should know enough to show some real understanding. It is amazing how often after a sermon someone will say something like, “How did you know that about me?” My answer is that I don’t, but that I
know myself and what the Bible says, and that it is usually true of others also. The Bible talks about real people with real problems and real emotions – there is understanding. Secondly, as implied above, a biblical preacher opens his heart and life to the people. Those who preach only in a “you” style, rather than “I” and “we,” alienate rather than connect. We are all facing problems and troubles. We are all looking for help and hope. We must do it together. Thirdly, true biblical preaching does offer help. Not cold instructions, but warm encouragement. It addresses our daily struggles and shows a better way. It is better than self-help, it is God-help. So, you don’t like to be preached “at”. Neither do I. If you are looking for a church, you should look for one where you are preached to, not at. In fact, shouldn’t we do that with one another? Let’s seek to understand, connect, and help.
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 5
W h at is A lz h eim er’ s D isease?
Signs and Symptoms Alzheimer’s is caused by abnormalities in the brain that cause plaque buildup, extensive nerve damage and reduce the size of the brain. Alzheimer’s can be present for up to 20 years before any signs are noticed. There are several behavior patterns that can prove to be clear indication of the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some signs and symptoms include: • Forgetfulness and memory loss that is more than just periodic. • Confusion about the time of day or the date. • Forgetting how to do simple everyday tasks. • Having trouble recalling words or using the wrong words in sentences. Also, having trouble writing full sentences due to forgotten vocabulary. • Losing motivation for social activities and other subjects of interest. • Random mood swings.
Stages These signs and symptoms occur in different stages as the disease takes its course. It is generally broken up into 7 main stages. • Standard The person has yet to experience any memory loss or forgetfulness and seems to be fairly healthy. • Very Mild Mental Recession Minor memory lapses occur and the person is aware of them. Other family member and close friends do not recognize these lapses as they are on a fairly minimal scale. It is not recognizable in medical testing or in social situations, nor does it greatly hinder performance at work. This I ndust ry I nsig h t was provided by Ella Bostedo, RN. You can reach her at 412.380.1300 or e-mail her at 343-ed@hcr-manorcare.com. 1 6
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• Mild Mental Recession Signs of mental decline become somewhat apparent to family members and close friends as the person begins to alter behavior and communication patterns. Those experiencing this stage may begin to show signs of irritability or stubbornness as a result of frustration with their ailing memory and recent cognitive decline. They also might begin forgetting people’s names and using the wrong words in sentences. • Mild Alzheimer’s Disease Doctors can now confidently diagnose the patient with Alzheimer’s Disease as he or she is experiencing more heightened symptoms. The person withdraws from the others most of the time. They forget people’s names and vocabulary more frequently and sometimes forget the time of day or the day of the week. • Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease Cognitive decline is quite noticeable now and the person might forget important details of their past like strong childhood memories or the name of the city in which they were born. They can no longer live by themselves because they now lack essential living skills.
• Moderately Severe Alzheimer’s Disease Until now, the person’s personality has stayed intact but during this stage it begins to fade. They forget the names of their close family members and need assistance in virtually everything they do, including using the restroom. They experience emotions like heightened suspicion and hallucination and tend to exhibit repetitive behavior and speech. • Severe Alzheimer’s Disease During the last stage, the person loses the ability to respond to his/her environment and often loses their ability to communicate with others. They start to lose muscle control and can no longer walk, eat or sometimes even sit up without assistance.
Treatments To this day there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, although there a number of medications and treatments that tend to slow the progression or help retain skills. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of this disease, contact Arden Courts to see how we can help.
Is your loved one’s dementia clouding your life?
Local Resident Vows a New Direction for Region in 2010 If you haven’t met Eli Evankovich yet, you will. Evankovich has already worn out one pair of shoes going door to door to more than 9,000 homes in his effort to win election to the state house district that includes parts of Murrysville. He’s greeting residents, listening to their concerns, and sharing his plan to help fix state government in order to bring common sense and fiscal sanity to Harrisburg. Never having run for office before, this was not an easy decision for Eli and his family. “If you would have talked to me a year ago, I would have agreed we needed a change, but I wasn’t considering running for office,” said Evankovich. Billing himself as “a regular guy,” Evankovich, 27, is a lifelong resident of Murrysville with strong family ties to the New Kensington portion of the district. Eli’s parents, Carl and Mary Ann (Tranchine), raised their six children on the small family farm that has been in the Evankovich name for over 80 years. Eli spent his formative years raising cattle, driving tractors and developing the character that goes along with this lifestyle. “As a young boy, long hard days were just part of life. It was here that I learned some of the most valuable lessons in life—lessons that have carried and shaped me,” Evankovich said. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh, Evankovich was hired by U.S. Steel where he works today as a Financial Analyst at the Irvin Plant in West Mifflin. Eli is proud to work for U.S. Steel and he understands the critical role our steel industry – and all manufacturing – plays in our region’s economy. “I’ve seen how the loss of steel, manufacturing and other industrial jobs has hurt our families and our communities. We have the opportunity to change
the landscape in Pennsylvania to make our state more competitive in order to attract good paying jobs – that is my top priority.” His business experience has shown him that politicians don’t create jobs for our families, but they can stand in the way of economic development. “All of this spending, borrowing and taxing makes Pennsylvania The problems we face less competitive and costs us aren’t Democrat or jobs. It’s an endless cycle that Republican – both must be stopped now,” parties have failed us. Evankovich stressed. We need to put “What I’m in favor of is our politics aside and government spending less take real action.” money, and focusing more on effectiveness. We need strong leaders to prioritize spending on what really matters to us like economic development, better roads, and effective education and senior programs. We don’t need more taxes, we need to spend smarter so families and seniors can keep more of their hard earned dollars,” he said. “The problems we face aren’t Democrat or Republican – both parties have failed us. We need to put politics aside and take real action. That’s what I’ll do,” Evankovich said. He will be a full-time representative and won't forget that he’s there to represent our concerns and needs. “We need regular everyday folks involved, just like I am,” he said. “We live in the greatest country that’s ever existed and we can fix any problem if we stand together and bring common sense to our government.” To do that, Evankovich will continue meeting people one family at a time. It’s all part of his quest to take real action. Although he is facing 10-year incumbent John Pallone in November, Eli says over and over, “he’s not running against John, he’s running to make a difference for our families.” While he knows it won’t be easy, the people in the more than 10,000 households that he’s visited so far have told him that a new fresh perspective is needed to fix state government.
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
Hazel (Gypsy) Youngman, will celebrate 100 years on August 28, 2010. Her children hosted a dinner party in her honor at the Lamplighter Restaurant on Route 22, Delmont, PA. Friends and relatives from as far away as California attended the event. Hazel, known in this area as Gypsy, is the wife of George B. Youngman, DDS who practiced dentistry for 50 years in Manheim, PA. She served a term as President of the Lancaster County Dental Ladies Auxiliary. After the death of her husband, Gypsy moved from Pennsylvania to New York, Connecticut, then to Colorado to be closer to her children. In 1992-94, she served as President of the Bethel AARP. In 1997, she received the AARP Excellence in Community Service Award by the Bethel AARP chapter at a June 10 ceremony at the Ridgewood Country Club in Danbury, CT. In 2001, Gypsy moved from Colorado Springs, CO to Murrysville, PA to live with her daughter at Brookside Condominiums. She is active in Silver Sneakers and enjoys flower arranging and reading. She played an active role in planning her celebration, coordinating the invitations, decorations and flowers within her color scheme.
Hazel (Gypsy) Youngman
Calva r y L ut he ran C h urc h and
Calvar y Early Lear ning Center Connecting people to the love off Jesus
Sat urd ay Sun 5:30 p Worsh m d ay ip 8:3 Con Serv 0 tem ices am Sun : por d ay T 11 raditi ary am P onal rais e
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Connect with us this F Fall al . all Join us for the Annual Christian Art and Craft Show November 6 and 7, 2010. 4725 Old William Penn Highway, Murrysville |724-327-2898 1 8
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Murrysville Military Heroes Lt. Col. Lance Hrivnak from Murrysville is currently serving in Afghanistan. He graduated from Franklin Regional HS in 1989 and from Penn State in 1994 with a degree in Aerospace Engineering and his Air Force Commissioning. He is scheduled to return from deployment in October.
D o you k now som eone w h o is serving in t h e arm ed f orc es f rom t h e M urrysville area?
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.
Help us recognize these fine men and women!
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 9
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FA L L 2 0 1 0
H ealth and W ellness N ews Y ou Can Use For residents of eastern communities
What’s Inside
Play I t S afe Š
Kick off the fall sports season and keep your kids in the game with this guide to help prevent sports injuries. (page 3) 2 010 UPMC
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UPMC E y e Ce n t e r Mo n r o e v i l l e O f f e r s a Cl e a r Ch o i c e i n R e f r a c t i v e S u r g e r y T i p s f o r Ch o o s i n g a n E y e S u r g e o n
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Pl a y I t S a f e UPMC E y e Ce n t e r Mo n r o e v i l l e Is G r o w in g
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A r e Y o u Co n c u s s i o n - S a v v y ? S c h o o l L u n c h e s T h a t Ma k e t h e G r a d e
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W h o K n e w R e h a b Co u l d B e S o Mu c h F u n ?
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A N e w E ra o f T re a tm e n t fo r H i g h - R i s k Pr e g n a n c i e s
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F o r t h e Pe r f e c t I n s i d e V i e w : H i g h - T e c h I m a g i n g i n Mo n r o e v i l l e
UPMC Eye Center Monroeville Offers a Clear Choice in Refractive Surgery N ew laser technology is changing the way people see the world Tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses? Millions of people have turned to refractive eye surgery to correct their vision. Recent advancements in technology are revolutionizing laser vision correction even more. Surgeons can now perform highly personalized procedures often with crystal clear results. “This is the next generation of laser vision correction surgery,” says Deepinder K. Dhaliwal, MD, director of the UPMC Eye Center Monroeville. “We can create a treatment, or correction, tailor-made to each person’s vision.”
Dr. Dhaliwal, a certified Visx/IntraLase instructor, says advancements have made laser vision correction procedures much safer, helping many patients achieve the sharpest, clearest vision possible. However, she urges patients to do their homework before signing on for the delicate surgery. “Finding a quality doctor and facility is just as important as determining if you’re a good candidate for refractive eye surgery,” she says. You may be a good candidate for refractive surgery if you:
Pr e c i s e a n d Pe r s o n a l
• Are at least 18 years of age
At the UPMC Eye Center where Dr. Dhaliwal also is chief of refractive surgery, doctors are using new laser technology on patients to precisely reshape the cornea and correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and other refractive errors.
• Have healthy eyes
• The first step involves an IntraLase®, which uses tiny, rapid pulses of laser light to create a corneal flap. The computer-controlled IntraLase® results in a smoother, more uniform corneal flap. • Visx®, an advanced customized excimer laser system, is used to reshape the cornea during the second part of the procedure. • WaveScan™ is a three-dimensional digital imaging system that measures imperfections, creating a detailed map of each eye.
• Are in good health and are not pregnant or nursing • Have had a stable eyewear prescription for at least one year
A S u r g e o n ’s T o u c h Extensive prescreening, examination, and mapping of the eyes are vital for a surgeon to decide which procedure is best for each person. When it comes to choosing who will perform your surgery, don’t cut corners. “Some patients see their surgeon for the first time just minutes before the operation,” says Dr. Dhaliwal. “As with all surgeries, complications can arise. That’s why it’s important for the surgeon to be closely involved from the beginning — from the initial examination and post-surgery, through follow-up care.” To find out if you are a candidate for refractive surgery, contact the UPMC Eye Center at 412-647-2917 or visit www.UPMC.com/East.
Tips for Choosing an Eye Surgeon If you are considering refractive surgery to correct a vision problem, the first thing you should do is talk with an eye surgeon. Following are some tips to help you find one: D o y o u r h o m e w o r k . Talk to people you know to find a doctor — and a center — that has a good reputation. Y ou want to go where the latest technology is being used and where you will feel most comfortable. I f i t s o u n d s t o o g o o d t o b e t r u e , it usually is. L ook for the best doctor and surgery center — not the least expensive. This isn’t the time to try to save a few hundred dollars.
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A s k if y o u r s u r g e o n p r o v id e s p r e - s c r e e n in g a n d f o llo w - u p c a r e .
www.UPMC.com/ Today
Pl a y I t S a f e Many youth sports inj uries can be prevented by following these practical suggestions Sports and ex ercise offer undeniable benefits. But for millions of young athletes, they also bring risks. According to the Centers for D isease Control and Prevention (CD C), sports injuries among high school athletes alone are on the rise, accounting for nearly two million injuries, 5 vv,vvv doctor visits, and zv,vvv hospitalizations every year. Injuries range from strains, sprains, and fractures to concussions and heat stroke.
Freddie H. Fu, MD , chairman of the U PMC D epartment of O rthopaedic Surgery and renowned sports medicine ex pert, blames much of the increase in injuries on today’ s trend of kids focusing year-round on one sport.
Ex perts attribute the high rate of youth sports injuries to:
D r. Fu says it’ s important for parents and coaches alike to understand the dangers and take steps to keep children safe. He recommends the following:
• overuse • trauma • lack of preventive measures (including proper eq uipment, training, and conditioning) The CD C estimates that more than half of all sports injuries involving children and teens are preventable.
“Kids are doing too much. N ow, there’ s no off-season. When they’ re not playing, they are practicing and at a very intense level,” he says.
K e e p Y o u r K id s in t h e G a m e
w) Cross-train and avoid specializing in one sport to create balance and avoid breakdowns in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. y) Take time off from competition to allow muscles and joints time to rest and recover.
z) Use the right gear and make sure it’ s in good condition and fits properly. Insist your child uses the recommended safety gear. 4 ) Ensure proper techniques are used for throwing, running, and swinging. 5 ) Take time to stretch before a workout/game and cool down after. 6 ) Maintain good hydration when playing to avoid fatigue and keep the body cool. R e m e m b e r, p la b e f u n . Ch e c k o w w w . UPMC. c o o n th e to p fo u r a m o n g y o u n g a
y in g u t o m / T in ju t h le
s p o r t s s h o u ld u r w e b s it e a t o d a y fo r d e t a ils r ie s t h a t o c c u r te s .
UPMC E y e Ce n t e r Mo n r o e v i l l e Is G r o w in g The UPMC Eye Center Monroeville has expanded its 125 Daugherty Drive location by moving to a third floor suite. W ith twice the space, we’ve added more exam rooms, a larger waiting area, and an Ocular Imaging Center. Expanded services include glaucoma testing and a new subspecialty — neuro-ophthalmology/adult motility (eye disorders caused by or associated with neurologic disease/eye movement disorders). Other subspecialties include cornea, retina, glaucoma, and optometry services. To schedule an appointment at the UPMC Eye Center Monroeville, call 412-647-2200 or 1-x00-446-37y7.
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H ealth Tips from UPMC H ealth Plan
A re Y o u Co n c u s s i o n S a v v y ? Me a s u r e y o u r u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f c o n c u s s io n s w it h t h e s e fiv e q u e s t io n s . Most of us think of a concussion primarily as a sportsrelated inj ury — and statistics show that one out of every five reported concussions is sports- related. B ut any violent shaking or blow to the head can lead to a concussion. “ A suspected concussion should be taken seriously — whether it happens on the playing field, in your home, or on the j ob,” says Michael yMicky’ Collins, PhD, assistant director of the UPMC S ports Medicine Concussion Program. A nationally recogniz ed expert in sports- related concussions, Dr. Collins co- created — along with Mark R . L ovell, PhD, director of the UPMC S ports Medicine Concussion Program and J oseph C. Maroon, MD, vice chairman of N eurosurgery at UPMC Presbyterian and neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh S teelers — the Center for Disease Control’s yCDC’ “ Concussion Tool K it for Physicians.”
H o w m u c h d o y o u r e a lly k n o w a b o u t c o n c u s s io n s ? Take this true- false quiz to test your understanding of this common but potentially life- threatening inj ury: 1. A concussion is a brain inj ury. True or False 2 . S igns and symptoms of concussion can develop right after the inj ury or even hours or days later. True or False 3 . Concussions occur even if the person has not been knocked unconscious. True or False 4. A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first can slow recovery or increase the likelihood of long- term problems. True or False 5. Concussions can have a more serious effect on a young, developing brain. True or False I f you answered “ true” to all five questions, you’re ahead of the game — but there’s more you should know. G et the facts about concussion symptoms and treatment at www.UPMC.com/ Today.
Did Y ou K now? I mPACT , the concussion evaluation system most widely in use worldwide by professional, college, and high school sports teams, was developed at UPMC by Dr. L ovell, Dr. Collins, and Dr. Maroon. TM
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www.UPMC.com/ Today
School L unches That Make the G rade Kids need more than pens, pencils, and notebooks to successfully get through a day at school. They also need healthy lunches. Here are some tips on how to make sure your child eats healthy foods while at school: • Get your child involved with the planning and packing of lunches. • Acknowledge his or her likes and dislikes. • Assemble lunch the night before to avoid morning delays and/or hurried choices. • If your child buys lunch at the school cafeteria, make sure he or she knows the difference between healthy and unhealthy foods. • Teach your child about portions and portion control. • Think healthy and think light. • Teach your child to eat until no longer hungry, not until “stuffed.”
S t u m p e d fo r id e a s o n w h a t t o p a c k ? T r y t h e s e h e a lt h y o p t io n s : Main dishes Sandwich made with wholegrain bread, lean meat, and low-fat cheese; or peanut butter and all-fruit jelly on whole-grain bread Pita pocket stuffed with shredded turkey, chicken, or light roast beef; or grated vegetables, low-fat cheese, and light salad dressing Mini pizza, whole-grain English muffin, or bagel topped with turkey pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and garlic herb cream cheese Low-fat tuna or chicken salad on a mini bagel Fruits and vegetables Red pepper strips, carrots, celery, sugar snap peas, or green beans with salsa or light ranch dressing Fresh fruit Fruit cups Applesauce
Healthy snacks Low-fat yogurt, either in a cup or a tube Wheat crackers with peanut butter or low-fat cheese Cottage cheese, with or without fruit Pudding made with skim milk String cheese Salsa with baked chips Peanuts Small bag of light popcorn Occasional treats Baked or low-fat potato chips Fun-size candy bars Low-fat cookies Foods to limit Regular snack chips (potato, tortilla, etc.) Full-size candy bars Regular cookies Canned fruits in sweetened syrup
I nnovation at UPMC
W ho K new Rehab Could B e So Much Fun? L ast N ovember, John Rizzi,) 5r , noticed numbness and tingling in his feet. A few weeks later he suddenly fell while hunting. By January, he was paralyzed from the chest down — only able to move his head and shrug his shoulders. Eventually diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that damaged the protective covering of the nerves (myelin sheath) and interfered with the signaling process, John arrived in March at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its G aming and Robotics Center for intensive therapy. “When I saw the advanced equipment, I was amazed. It inspired me to do whatever I could to walk again,” John says. Playing computer games and doing simulated tasks using robotic devices such as the Armeo Boom enabled John to move his arms and regain fine motor skills. A robotic treadmill called the L okomat made it possible for him to walk. “I started seeing gains right away. That made me want to work even harder,” he says.
F u n a n d G a m e s fo r E f fe c t iv e R e h a b ilit a t io n The Armeo Boom — available for clinical use at UPMC and nowhere else in the nation — is one of several cutting-edge devices used in rehabilitation at the center. To use it, patients strap their arm into a sling attached to an overhead boom. Robotic supports allow patients to move their arm while playing reach-and-retrieval computer games, such as solitaire and placing apples in a shopping cart, along with simulated tasks such as cooking or cleaning. “Rehabilitation can be very tedious and painful. A lot of repetition is needed to teach the body to move again,” says Michael Boninger, MD, director of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute. “Using this technology is kind of sneaky. It’s great to see patients enjoy playing a game when you know they are actually working hard at rehabilitation.” i Mr. Riz z i’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.
John, who has regained most of his abilities, agrees. “It was more like playing a game. Y ou’re working, the sweat is running down your face, but it’s fun. Y ou’re getting the movement and the repetition you need, but you’re laughing,” he says. Dr. Boninger says patients benefit from using the very latest technology. UPMC researchers have developed their own designs, and companies often send their prototypes here for evaluation. O ther innovative devices used at the Center include the G ameCycle , a machine invented at the University of Pittsburgh that combines a stationary hand cycle with a commercial video game; the Armeo Spring — a companion to the Armeo Boom; and several N intendo Wii systems. “Technology is very important in rehabilitation. Having a therapist move a patient’s arm repeatedly works, but not nearly as well as having the patient move his own arm while it is supported by a robot and while he is playing a game,” says Dr. Boninger. “Computer games also provide quick feedback and measure improvement, which adds to the sense of accomplishment.”
V ir t u a l T h e r a p y a t H o m e The N intendo Wii can be a useful tool for patients as they maintain their physical rehabilitation program at home. It’s relatively inexpensive, and many of the games incorporate the repetitive motion required in ongoing therapeutic exercises. “We can tell patients to do an exercise 5r r times in the next week,” said Dr. Boninger. “But many people just won’t do it. Tell them to play Wii Tennis and they’ll do it and have fun.”
Dr. Michael B oninger shows how the Armeo B oom’s games and simulated tasks allow rehab patients to work hard and have fun.
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A Pi o n e e r i n g F o r c e i n Ma t e r n a l - F e t a l Me d i c i n e
A N ew Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies Having a baby is one of the most natural things in the world, but it’s not risk free. For some women and their unborn children, the risks can be especially great, with potential for the development of life-threatening complications. Transforming their treatment and medical outlook is the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. The program has long been recognized as a leader in MFM, an obstetric subspecialty focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of expectant mothers and their fetuses who may be at high risk before, during, and after pregnancy. Many conditions can potentially put women at higher risk during pregnancy, including: • Pre term labor • Becoming pregnant after age 35 • Multiple birth pregnancies (twins or triplets) • Family history of birth defects or genetic disorders • Medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid or kidney diseases, and pre-eclampsia W o r k i n g T o g e t h e r f o r Mo t h e r a n d Ch i l d “Many MFM programs nationwide are available only at children’s hospitals. At UPMC, our comprehensive program of caring for mother and fetus is offered through Magee,” explains Stephen P. Emery, MD, director of the division’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center. “The maternal component is central to our mission; it’s a natural extension of our hospital’s historic focus on women’s health.” The center’s MFM physicians are supported by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals with expertise in high-risk pregnancies, including anesthesiologists, geneticists, radiologists, and bioethicists. “We work together and apply our collective knowledge to find solutions for each patient’s needs,” says Dr. Emery.
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The goal is to give women and their families the information they need to make informed decisions about their pregnancies. The center then provides critical counseling and planning support, and state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical services. Magee’s close partnership with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC also links newborns with congenital abnormalities to neonatologists, pediatric surgeons, and other specialists for ongoing care after birth. “Thanks to the tremendous technological advancements in MFM in recent years, we get to know an unborn child inside and out during a high-risk pregnancy — from his or her chromosomal makeup to cardiac anatomy. We’re prepared to quickly address any health care needs immediately after birth — or even in utero if needed, ” says Dr. Emery. “Just as importantly, we’re also able to ensure that the mother’s continuing health needs are met.”
Typically, an obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife will refer a woman to Magee’s MFM team for initial evaluation. However, women can contact Magee directly at 412-641-3382. L earn more about Mag ee’ s D ivision of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and its Fetal D iag nosis and T reatment Center at www.UPMC.com/Mag ee.
Did Y ou K now? Maternal-fetal medicine services are available at UPMC Mercy (412-232-x111) and UPMC Horiz on (412-641-6361).
Advancing the Q uality of Care Through Research Despite major medical advancements in recent years, the causes of many fetal complications remain a mystery. That’s why research is so critical to the efforts of Magee’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center. “Through our research, the quality of our care extends far beyond what patients see,” says Hyagriv Simhan, MD, chief of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and an experienced investigator at the Magee-Women’s Research Institute (MWRI). “Magee is recognized for its pioneering research and medical advancements in MFM,” adds Dr. Simhan. The first research center devoted exclusively to the health concerns of women and infants, the institute’s current MFM research initiatives include preterm birth, genetics, placental function, and pre-eclampsia.
For the the Perfect Perfect For Inside View View Inside High-tech imaging in Monroeville High-tech imaging in Monroeville
Does your doctor suspect you fractured your pinky finger but wants a quick x-ray Does doctor suspect you fractured your pinky finger buta wants a quick x-ray to beyour sure? Has your specialist instructed you to schedule CT scan or MRI, but to becan’t sure?take Hastime your off specialist you to a CT in scan or MRI, but you work toinstructed do so? UPMC atschedule Oxford Drive Monroeville now you can’t take time off work for to do so? and UPMC at Oxford in Monroeville offers a convenient source these other imagingDrive services, with earlynow morning, offers a convenient source for these and other imaging services, with early morning, evening, and weekend hours. evening, and weekend hours. UPMC at Oxford Drive features the latest in imaging technology, including the area’s UPMC at Oxford Drive features imagingand technology, including the area’sMRI: only fixed, permanent PET/CT the (64latest slice)in scanner the roomier, new wide-bore only fixed, permanent PET/CT (64 slice) scanner and the roomier, new wide-bore MRI: • The combination PET/CT gives physicians a more complete picture of what is • The combination PET/CT gives physicians and a more complete picture of what occurring in the body, both anatomically metabolically. It’s used to is occurring in the body, both anatomically and metabolically. It’s used to detect the presence and severity of cancers, as well as other diseases. detect the presence and severity of cancers, as well as other diseases. • Individuals who become anxious in tight spaces and larger-built patients, • Individuals who become anxious in tight spaces and larger-built patients, such as athletes, can breathe easier in the wide-bore MRI, which features an such as athletes, can breathe easier in the wide-bore MRI, which features an extra-large opening and extra half foot of space. extra-large opening and extra half foot of space. Other imaging services include traditional x-rays (no appointment needed); Other imaging services include traditional x-rays (no appointment needed); fluoroscopy; bone density scanning (DEXA); regular CT, PET, and MRI scanners; fluoroscopy; bone density scanning (DEXA); regular CT, PET, and MRI scanners; nuclear medicine; peripheral vascular; and ultrasound. nuclear medicine; peripheral vascular; and ultrasound. UPMCatatOxford OxfordDrive Driveoffers offersfree freeparking, parking,comfortable comfortablewaiting waiting rooms, and UPMC rooms, and freewireless wirelessInternet. Internet.Hours Hoursare areMonday Mondaythrough throughThursday, Thursday, 7 a.m. 7 p.m.; free 7 a.m. toto 7 p.m.; Friday,77a.m. a.m.toto5:30 5:30p.m.; p.m.;and andSaturday, Saturday,7 7a.m. a.m.totonoon. noon. Friday, Foran anappointment, appointment,call callUPMC UPMCatatOxford OxfordDrive Driveatat412-372-1600. 412-372-1600. For
NewPhysicians Physicians Welcoming New Please ofof our physicians. Please visit visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor www.UPMC.com/FindADoctorororcall call1-800-533-UPMC 1-800-533-UPMC(8762) (8762)for formore moreinformation informationabout aboutany any our physicians.
UPMC is is pleased pleased to towelcome welcomethe thefollowing followingnew newphysicians physicianstotoour ourDaugherty DaughertyDrive Drivelocation: location: Diagnostic Diagnostic Digestive DigestiveDiseases DiseasesAssociates Associates Urology Urology
UPMC Division UPMCRenal-Electrolyte Renal-Electrolyte Division
Kotayya Kotayya Kondaveeti, Kondaveeti,MD MD For more information, For more information,or orto toschedule schedulean an appointment, appointment, please pleasecall call412-621-0220. 412-621-0220.
Richard RichardJacobs, Jacobs,MD MD For more information, For more information,orortotoschedule scheduleanan appointment, appointment,please pleasecall call412-681-6632. 412-681-6632.
Georgiades Georgiades Surgical SurgicalAssociates Associates
UPMC UPMCDepartment DepartmentofofGastroenterology, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Hepatology,and andNutrition Nutrition
Jose MD JoseBernardo, Bernardo, MD Robert Denshaw, MD Robert Denshaw, MD Laurence MD LaurenceFriedman, Friedman, MD Nitin MD NitinKamat, Kamat, MD For oror toto schedule anan Formore moreinformation, information, schedule appointment, please call 412-802-3043. appointment, please call 412-802-3043.
Athan Georgiades, MD, FACS Athan Georgiades, MD, FACS For more information, or to schedule an For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-683-2267. appointment, please call 412-683-2267.
Khan Medical Associates Khan Medical Associates
Cynthia Black, CRNP Cynthia Black, CRNP Abdul Khan, MD Abdul Khan, MD For more information, or to schedule an For more information, or412-242-8860. to schedule an appointment, please call appointment, please call 412-242-8860.
Podiatry Podiatry
Joseph Pasquino, DPM Joseph DPM For morePasquino, information, or to schedule an For more information, or412-325-3778. to schedule an appointment, please call appointment, please call 412-325-3778.
Specialists in Cardiovascular SpecialistsPC in Cardiovascular Medicine, Medicine, PC Abdulrab Aziz, MD For more information, Abdulrab Aziz, MD or to schedule an appointment, please call For more information, or412-856-4666. to schedule an appointment, please call 412-856-4666.
Howard Dubner, MD Howard Dubner, MD Andres Gelrud, MD Andres Gelrud, MD Jason Swoger, MD Jason Swoger, MD Lee Weinberg, MD Lee Weinberg, MD For more information, or to schedule an For more information, to schedule an appointment, please callor412-647-8666. appointment, please call 412-647-8666.
UPMC Eye Center UPMC Eye Center
Eiyass Albeiruti, MD Eiyass Albeiruti, MD MD Deepinder K. Dhaliwal, Deepinder K. Dhaliwal, MD Andrew W. Eller, MD Andrew W. Eller,MD MD Craig Luchansky, CraigMitchell, Luchansky, Ellen MDMD Ellen Mitchell, MD or to schedule an For more information, For more information, to schedule an appointment, please callor412-647-2200. appointment, please call 412-647-2200.
UPMC Pain Management UPMCChen, Pain Management Zongfu MD For more Chen, information, Zongfu MD or to schedule an appointment, please callor412-374-7302. For more information, to schedule an appointment, please call 412-374-7302.
UPP Department of Otolaryngology, UPP Department of Otolaryngology, University ENT University ENT Andrea Lewis, MD Andrea Lewis, MD Anthony Soose, MD Anthony Soose, MDor to schedule an For more information, For more information, to schedule an appointment, please callor 412-374-1260. appointment, please call 412-374-1260.
UPP Division of Surgical Oncology UPP Division of Surgical Oncology
Andrew Watson, MD Andrew Watson, MD For more information, or to schedule an For more information, to schedule an appointment, please callor 412-641-4272. appointment, please call 412-641-4272.
UPP Division of Transplantation, UPP Division of Transplantation, Division of Surgical Oncology Division of Surgical Oncology David Tsung, MD For moreTsung, information, David MD or to schedule an appointment, please callor 412-641-4272. For more information, to schedule an appointment, please call 412-641-4272.
1-800-533-UPMC 1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC 600 Oxford Drive Monroeville, PA 15146
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.
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Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 2 9
FRANKLIN REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 3210 School Road, Murrysville, PA | 724.327.5456 | www.franklinregional.k12.pa.us
Superintendent’s Message
Professional Learning Communities D r. P . E m ery D ’ A rc ang elo S up erint endent S h elley S h aneyf elt Director of Instructional Services and Public Relations D r. C h arles K oren Director of Human Resources G eorg e S af in Director of Financial Services L inda M iller Assistant to the Director of Financial Services F rank J . M ut o Supervisor of Technology Services D ennis M aj ew sk i Director of District Services Z ac h ary K essler Director of Athletics & Student Activities R ic h ard E . R eg elsk i, J r. Director of Special Education A llan M ik ac h Director of Counseling Services K aren C adw ell School Board Secretary/ Executive Assistant to the Superintendent T ina B urns, P rinc ip al High School C h ris K elly, P rinc ip al Middle School S am K ing , P rinc ip al Heritage Elementary T ina G illen, P rinc ip al Newlonsburg Elementary J udy M orrison, P rinc ip al Sloan Elementary
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Each year we are anxious to share our progress toward meeting the goals that are outlined in the School District’s Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan is a comprehensive document that provides a roadmap for District goals and is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. More importantly, the District’s Administrative Team continually monitors the progress in meeting these goals and engages in the development of corresponding strategies that are targeted to improve student learning. All activities and strategies are reviewed by the Superintendent and shared at Administrative Team Meetings throughout the school year. Programmatic changes are then presented to the Board of Directors for consideration at bi-monthly public meetings and are also presented to various stakeholder groups. The goals identified in the Strategic Plan are: • To reach 100% proficiency and to maintain or exceed each student’s current growth pattern in mathematics as measured by the student’s performance on the PSSA and other standardized testing by the year 2014. • To reach 100% proficiency and to maintain or exceed each student’s current growth pattern in reading as measured by the student’s performance on the PSSA and other standardized testing by the year 2014. • The four-year graduation rate will maintain at its current level or show growth by the year 2014 as measured by the common formula determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. • Student attendance rates will maintain at their current levels of exceeding 94% or will show growth in the elementary and middle schools as measured by the Average Daily Attendance formula and reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Education through the year 2014.
• 100% of all eligible students will continue to participate on the PSSAs in reading, math, writing, and science through the year 2014. • To maintain and improve upon a diverse and challenging curricula by providing positive learning opportunities for all students, consistently delivered K-12, using best teaching practices as measured by students’ performance on local and standardized assessments. • To increase the students’ exposure to global cultures, to understand diversity and encourage tolerance, and to continue to support students’ opportunities to reach proficiency in a second world language. As an educational institution, we are determined to achieve our goals and embrace high levels of learning for all students as the fundamental responsibility of our professional staff. To achieve this purpose, we are committed and engaged in a research-based strategy known as a Professional Learning Community (PLC). The Professional Learning Community (PLC) model has been developed by one of the most respected educators in America, Dr. Richard DuFour. The PLC model is also supported by many of the top educational practitioners in our country. The primary focus of the PLC model is student learning. With this model, the professional staff at Franklin Regional is guided by a clear “vision” of what we must become in order to help all students learn. They make collective commitments clarifying what each member will do to create such an organization, and they use results-oriented goals to mark their progress. (continued on next page)
Franklin Regional Board of Directors Front Row: Karen Cadwell (Board Secretary), Herb Yingling (President), Dr. P. Emery D'Arcangelo, Allan Shafer Back Row: Joe Seymour, Joseph Thomas, Dennis Irvine, Kimberly Bondi, Bill Evans, Roberta Cook, Paul Scheinert (Vice President) The Board meets the first and third Monday of each month at Heritage Elementary School – Administrative Conference Room, 7:30 p.m.
The members in each learning community work together to clarify exactly what each student must learn, monitor each student’s learning on a timely basis, provide systematic interventions that ensure students receive additional time and support for learning when they struggle, and extend and enrich learning when students have already mastered the intended outcomes. In a Professional Learning Community (PLC) collaborative teams work interdependently to achieve common goals linked to the purpose of learning for all. In a PLC, collaboration represents a systematic process in which teachers work together interdependently in order to impact their classroom practice in ways that will lead to better results for their students, for their team, and for their school. Therefore their collaboration centers on certain critical questions:
district goals for learning. This is the “vision” at Franklin Regional! This is an exciting time at Franklin Regional and we are anxious to meet our many challenges. While we are proud to be recognized as one of the top school districts in the state, we will continue to explore ways to improve and meet the needs of all students through the development of the Professional Learning Community (PLC) model. Thank you for supporting the Franklin Regional School District. Sincerely, Dr. P. Emery D’Arcangelo Superintendent - Franklin Regional School District
• What essential knowledge, skills, and disposition must each student acquire as a result of this course, grade level, and/or unit of instruction? • What evidence will we gather to monitor student learning on a timely basis? • How will we provide students with additional time and support in a timely, directive, and systematic way when they experience difficulty in their learning? • How will we enrich the learning of students who are already proficient? • How can we use our team goals and evidence of student learning to inform and improve our instructional practice? The goal at Franklin Regional is to engage in collective inquiry into both best practices in teaching and best practices in learning. This collective inquiry will enable teacher teams to develop new skills and capabilities that in turn lead to new experiences and awareness. Working together to build shared knowledge is the best way to achieve our goals and meeting the needs of clients is exactly what professionals in any field are expected to do, whether it is curing the patient, winning the lawsuit, or helping all students learn. Members of a professional learning community are expected to work and learn together. Gradually, this heightened awareness transforms into fundamental shifts in attitudes, beliefs, and habits which, over time, transform the culture of the school into a true Professional Leaning Community. Finally, members of a PLC realize that all of their efforts in these areas—a focus on learning, collaborative teams, collective inquiry, action orientation, and continuous improvement— must be assessed on the basis of results rather than intentions. This focus on results leads each team to develop and pursue measurable improvement goals that are aligned to school and Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3 1
FRANKLIN REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
S t rat eg ic P lan and S t rat eg ic C h ang es in t h e E lem ent ary f or 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 When the Franklin Regional elementary students returned to classes this fall, they discovered many positive and exciting changes awaiting them. The administration and the teachers have been working together with the School Board to evaluate the educational program and staffing impacts to make some necessary adjustments to the schedule and the program. These adjustments will accommodate some desired learning outcomes as well as increased efficiency by balancing fiscal responsibility while maintaining the integrity of the educational program. Many of these initiatives were outlined in the Strategic Plan which was adopted in 2008 as the blueprint for moving Franklin Regional forward. • C h ang e in t h e st udent day - The students’ day will increase fifteen (15) minutes to provide additional instructional time. Student arrival time will begin at 8:45 a.m. and the instructional day will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will end at 3:15 p.m. for all students in grades K-5, with the exception of the half-day (.5) Kindergarten students whose day will end at 12:15 p.m. • I nc reased t im e f or M at h em at ic s - Mathematics instruction will increase from 45 to 60 minutes each day to provide more time for hands-on, inquiry-based instruction in all elementary grades (K-5) to help improve student achievement in mathematics. The School Board has approved a new core textbook series in mathematics to support this instruction. • I nc reased t im e f or T ec h nolog y I nst ruc t ion - Primary students, those in grades K-3, will receive 45 minutes of instruction in Technology education and integration each week as one of their five special classes. This opportunity will allow these students to get a jump start on using the technology resources in the computer labs to enhance their education and creativity while better preparing them for life in the 21st century where the use of technology will continue to grow and become a seamless part of our culture. • C reat ive A rt s - In order to make time for the new Technology class, the Creative Arts special will be discontinued. Many of the same opportunities will continue to exist for the students, as they do now, in the primary classrooms. • I nc reased t im e f or C ounseling - Our counselors will be spending more time in the Grade 4 & 5 classrooms increasing their focus on helping students develop healthy interpersonal skills and enhancing the educational prevention programs for drug and substance abuse. • I nt roduc t ion t o W orld K now ledg e The enhancement of global integration and understanding which was highlighted as a major goal in the Strategic Plan will get a start next year. The purpose of the World Knowledge Goal is: “To increase the students’ knowledge of and acceptance of global cultures through deliberate and multiple exposures to practices, perspectives, and products of these cultures, and to support students’ opportunities to reach proficiency in a second language.”
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Initially, all students K-5, will have the opportunity to begin to explore another language and culture as a first step in creating awareness of the wider world around us. We will be using an Internet-based program(s) to provide the language and culture introduction for our students and our classroom teachers for approximately 15 minutes each day. Spanish will be implemented for grades K-3 and both Spanish and French for students in grades 4-5. It is our plan that the language introduction, along with expansion of the “sister” classroom experience and the continued focus on the development of the Olweus anti-bullying program to highlight tolerance and acceptance of others will be the beginning of a multi-cultural transformation in our approach to education in our classrooms. The Internet has opened the doors to the world and we need to take advantage of the opportunities to expand our students’ understandings. • I nc reased t ec h nolog y t o sup p ort inst ruc t ion - All elementary classrooms will be equipped with ceiling-mounted digital projectors to assist with the delivery of the language and culture components of the World Knowledge Goal, as well as other applications throughout the instructional program. Our classroom teachers will have the capability to project any image that can be viewed on their computer screen as well as all DVDs and VCR tapes used to enhance instruction. Each projector system will have an amplified sound system to enhance the viewing experience by our students. • P ant h er P ow er S up p ort and E nric h m ent T im e - The TAN period that has existed in Grades 4 and 5 for a number of years is also going to have a new face. The period, known beginning next year as the Panther Power period, will be built into the schedule in each grade level K-5. The daily thirty minute block of time will allow the teachers to focus on meeting the individual needs of the children as a grade level within each elementary building. Working together as a team with the resource specialists, the teachers will provide opportunities for enhancement, reinforcement, and enrichment in the core subject areas for all students. Literacy will be highlighted in year one. • S t ring s and B and – Instrumental music lessons will be offered to interested students beginning in fourth grade. All currently involved students will continue to be serviced. • A ddit ional S up p ort in C ore S ub j ec t s – All members of the teaching staff will become involved with supporting instruction, particularly in literacy and mathematics. Special subject teachers will work with the classroom teachers each morning to provide intensive instructional experiences for students to support reinforcement or enhancement of grade level skills. This initiative is supported by the Professional Learning Communities’ philosophy of collaborative efforts to support learning by all students. • L ib rary O p erat ing S of t w are – All of the libraries in the Franklin Regional School District will be operating with new software that will permit students and parents to browse the collections from home and will permit the librarians to have better control of the inventory and the loan process. The old software was no longer supported by the developer, requiring the Board to replace it with a newer product.
Franklin Regional’s New Director of Special Education
Franklin Regional’s new Director of Special Education may be new to the District, but he’s certainly not new to the field. A graduate of Penn-Trafford High School, Regelski went on to Westminster College and completed his Master’s at Seton Hill University. In 2002, he was hired by the Baldwin-Whitehall School District and spent five years as a Life Skills teacher for students in grades three through five. Life Skills teaching prepares students with significant cognitive challenges to be successful in areas such as daily living skills, communication skills and personal relationships. Mr. Regelski’s career path then led him into Administration and he became the Supervisor of Special Education at Baldwin-Whitehall. A resident of Murrysville, he left Baldwin-Whitehall to come to Franklin Regional as the Director of Special Education. It was a career move that he, his wife and two daughters couldn’t pass up.
“I wanted to become an employee in a top-notch school district,” Regelski said. “Franklin Regional has a vision that they want to be the top school and, from every level, there’s support to be the top school.” Regelski will oversee a department of 32 teachers as head of the Special Ed. Department. “It’s a wonderful staff – very skilled and very talented,” he said. “They are willing to go above and beyond to meet every child’s needs. Oftentimes one of the most sensitive and emotionally charged aspects of public education, the job responsibilities of the Director of Special Education require patience, compassion and understanding as this person works with the parents and the professional staff to make certain that each student is receiving a program that permits and encourages all students to grow academically and socially. Richard Regelski brings the needed skills to his new position, as well as a passion for the Franklin Regional School District.
G rant t o P urc h ase A ddit ional A E D s With the help and support of State Representative John Pallone, the Franklin Regional School District will be purchasing three (3) additional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to supplement the three already owned and used by the School District. Representative Pallone provided guidance and support for our application for a $5,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The originally purchased units, designed for use on older students and adults, were placed at the Middle School, the Senior High School and at the stadium. Newer technology now permits these units to be used on younger students through the use of specially sized pediatric pads. The new units are being placed at each of the elementary schools to provide an additional measure of safety for our students, staff, and visitors in the case of a cardiac emergency.
The older units have been retrofitted to include the smaller pads. Dennis Majewski, Director of District Services, will supervise the installation once the units have been received. Many of the staff members at Franklin Regional have been trained in the use of these devices, as well as Adult and Child CPR and First Aid. The District offers training classes through the American Red Cross on an ongoing basis and encourages any employee who is interested and physically capable to participate in the training. We are deeply grateful to Representative Pallone for his support and guidance and to the members of the District’s Safety Committee which includes members of the local Emergency Services Departments and local government officials as well as members of the District’s Administration Team for their persistence and dedication in recognizing the need for these additional potentially life-saving devices. This purchase truly elevates the level of protection for our school community and our visitors.
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3 3
FRANKLIN REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Senior High School Schedule Changes for 2010-2011 The normal student day at the Senior High School is 7:22 a.m. – 2:18 p.m. If you are a student at the Senior High School, the bad news is: No scheduled late starts for the Senior High School for this school year. The good news is: Early dismissal each Tuesday at 1:57 p.m. for all Senior High School students. “Why?” You might ask. Why would we send the Senior High school students home 25 minutes early each Tuesday? The answer is rather simple: We want to improve upon the education that they are receiving. The most successful research-based school improvement practice being utilized in the United States today is an organizational structure known as a Professional Learning Community or PLC. Educators working together to ensure the delivery of a guaranteed curriculum to all students with opportunities for re-teaching and enrichment available to all students is the framework of this model that will permit us to accomplish our mission of a high quality education for all students. And, compared to last year’s late start schedule, we can accomplish this goal while increasing instructional time for the students at the Senior High School. For the past year, groups of teachers who teach the same courses at Franklin Regional have been meeting, during the scheduled late start times, to clarify the essential learnings for each course being taught and to create common formative and summative assessments (tests, papers, projects) so that student learning can be measured across the curriculum. However, planning together is just the first step.
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The power of the PLC model is that teachers come together regularly to discuss their students’ progress and to share particularly successful teaching strategies with their team so all teachers can become masters at the profession. Once the students’ work is evaluated, the goals are re-established, the assessments are dissected for reliability and validity, and the planning cycle begins again. This is the focused work that our Franklin Regional Senior High School teachers will be accomplishing during the hour from 2-3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays. This vitally important work cannot be done in isolation and must occur regularly as a scheduled part of the teacher’s contracted work day. When teachers work together to support each other and a systemic system of interventions is in place for students needing enrichment or remediation, all students can and will grow academically. The Elementary and Middle School teachers will also meet as Professional Learning Community teams weekly throughout the school year, but the differences in the structure of the schools’ schedule permits this to happen without the need for an early dismissal. Because the work to be accomplished is so important, this time is being held as sacred. No other meetings, including parent meetings, will be scheduled during this time. Students scheduled for athletic practices/meetings will report to a designated location for a monitored study until 3:00 p.m. when the practice/meetings will begin unless their coaches/sponsors can make other arrangements with Assistant Coaches, etc. to permit the activities to begin immediately after school. Coaches and sponsors will provide specific direction to the students prior to the beginning of school.
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By Jonathan Barnes
orking as a fraud investigator for Mellon Bank, Ann Flasck was following the career path she had chosen when she had decided years before to study Criminology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. But Flasck, of Peters, through no fault of her own, lost her job and was given severance pay several years ago. The change opened her eyes to other potential opportunities. Flasck used her time on severance pay to take a welding class. “I wanted to learn how to weld to make furniture and artwork,” she said. “Then I found out about the trade unions and in 2005 I took the steamfitters’ [apprenticeship] test.” Flasck, 44, a South Park High School graduate, has had steady work with the union ever since she joined the group. The pay is high-$30 per hour—and a Steamfitters union member can get as much work as she wants, Flasck said, noting that she has become certified as a welder and obtained other skills to increase her ability to be hired for jobs. As many in Western Pennsylvania are learning through the hardships of the recent recession, work in the trades can be a high-paying career bereft of work stoppages. Trade work provides steady employment that is fulfilling to people who don’t enjoy work in an office setting. College is not for everyone and the cost of such an education is becoming more and more difficult for many families to bear. Newspapers and magazines are full of stories of students who took on the burdensome college debt that they are struggling to pay off. But for those with a strong work ethic, some mechanical aptitude and a desire to be a part of building something, becoming a member of a union could be an ideal career choice. Fortunately for those in the Pittsburgh area, the chance to work with the insulators, electricians, laborers, carpenters
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or other unions is greater than ever, due to the state-of-the-art training programs these and other local unions provide. “It’s neat to build things—to see something you’ve worked on turn into something,” Flasck said. The time commitment to becoming a full member of a union might not be for everyone, though. Steamfitters Local #499 takes in anywhere from 12 to 30 new members each year, a group that is winnowed from about 300 who take the initial test and interview for a slot with the union, said Ken Broadbent, business manager for Steamfitters Local #449, located along Woodruff Street in the South Hills. Unlike some jobs, there is no age discrimination in the union apprentice selection process—twentysomethings and older folks starting a second career have an equal shot at union membership. The Steamfitters apprenticeship program requires 1,000 hours of schooling at night for each apprentice, as well as 2,000 hours per year of guaranteed employment over the five-year apprenticeship. Those man-hours are paid, along with full benefits. Apprentices start at $12 per hour and eventually make $30 per hour as steamfitters, but you have to be fit. “You have to be physically able to perform the work because there’s lifting and climbing, and working in the cold and in the heat,” Broadbent said. “For every hour a journeyman works, we take 50 cents out of his pay to put towards the training program.” The average age of an apprentice is actually 27 years old, said Jason Fincke, executive director of the builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania, a labor/management organization that includes both contractors and unions. Apprentices earn between $10 and $15 per hour their first year, receiving average yearly raises of $3.50 annually during their training. The average building trades worker earns $45,000 per year, Fincke noted. Western Pennsylvania has 17 union apprenticeship schools and all are tuition-free, he said.
Studies have shown that a college education might actually be a waste of money for many of those who attend, Fincke said, and so union membership is an increasingly smart career choice. “Only about 5 percent of college graduates make more money than people in the building trades,” he said. While work in construction is hard and physically demanding, the industry isn’t affected in the same way by economic conditions as other industries are impacted, Fincke added. “You can’t outsource construction,” he said. With union workers averaging wages of $25 to $35 per hour, unions are many smart workers’ choice for gainful employment, Fincke said. “There’s a myth out there that to be successful you have to go to college… Building trade work can provide a very good living and a very good wage,” he said. For more information on apprenticeships in the trades in the Pittsburgh area, visit the Builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania’s web site, at www.buildersguild.org.
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3 7
MURRYSVILLE COMMUNITY LIBRARY S ep t em b er is N at ional L ib rary C ard S ig n- up M ont h 4103 Sardis Road Murrysville, PA 15668 724.327.1102 www.murrysvillelibrary.org L ib rary Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Thursday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Library Staff: Library Director: Denise Sticha Acquisitions and Technical Services: Susan Lyons Dee Marsalese Administrative Assistants: Karen Munson Judy Shoemaker
Tuesday Evening Book Discussion Group Meets in the Library Conference Room at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Reading copies of the discussion selection are available in the month prior to the discussion. Although pre-registration is not required, to reserve a copy of the book, call the Library Circulation Desk. The fall selections are as follows: September 21 – The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society (Barrows) October 19 – The Art of Racing in the Rain (Stein) November 16 – The Killing Floor (Child) December 21 – Girl With No Shadow (Harris)
Socrates Café An affiliate of the Society for Philosophic Inquiry, the Socrates Café meets at the Library on the first Monday of every month, at 7:00 p.m. in the Library Conference Room. The Café offers a unique experience going beyond a general discussion of current events. Café members are more concerned with formulating fruitful and reflective questions than arriving at absolute answers. Everyone is welcome and virtually all topics are open for debate. Together and alone, we push our thinking in surprising directions.
Circulation Services: Janice Beiber Kathi Miller Mij Zidian Technology: Kathy Miller Youth Services: Carol Siefken Library Board of Directors: Charles Greenberg, President Ron Schuler, Vice President Janet Swearingen, Treasurer Sharlene Emerson, Secretary Clois Fears Barbara Simone Janet Sutton
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Electronic Resources The Library offers remote or home access to a variety of electronic databases from its website at www.murrysvillelibrary.org. Users will need to enter their library barcode number at the login screen. Some databases allow users to create an account that enables files to be saved. B ook F lix is an online literacy resource that pairs 80 classic fictional video storybooks with related non-fiction e-books. Colorful animation, rich audio and interactive games reinforce the core reading skills and introduce emergent and reluctant readers to a world of knowledge and discovery. Herit ag e Q uest O nline is a genealogy database providing access to U.S. Census information from 1790-1930, 22,000 family histories, Revolutionary War Era Pension and Bounty-Land Warrant Application files, the Freedman’s Bank, founded in 1865 to serve former slaves and African Americans, and the U.S. Serial Set, documents and resources from the Memorials, Petitions, and Private Relief Act actions of the U.S. Congress. L earning E x p ress L ib rary offers online practice tests for academic and work-related skill building and certification. Education tests cover the range of age and grade relevant test including the California tests in math reading and writing, the PSAT and NMSQT, SAT and ACT preparation, AP tests in a variety of subject disciplines, GED and CLEP tests, and the TOEFFL exams. Graduate level practice tests are available for the GMAT, the GRE, LSAT and the MCAT. The career and job skills section include tests covering civil service, commercial drivers licensing, cosmetology, emergency medical service, law enforcement, firefighting, military, nursing, real estate and teaching. Other skill build areas provide assistance in resume and cover letter writing, business communication and math fundamentals. Practice tests for U.S. Citizenship are also available. M ang a L ang uag es is an online languagelearning system teaching actual conversation skills in Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Greek, Russian, Mandarin Chinese, ESL Polish and ESL Spanish. The courses are self-paced and include both visual and audio instruction. By listening and repeating material designed from native conversations, students will learn more than grammar and vocabulary, they will learn how to communicate. Access to this database is funded by the Westmoreland Library Network.
Murrysville
R ef erenc e U S A is the premier business database and provides online access to information from over 5,400 phone directories, 10,000 company annual reports, 10-K forms, and other SEC information, and federal, state, and municipal government sources. Searches can be customized by SIC codes, executive/CEO name, Stock Exchange ticker symbol, NAICS Codes, sales volume and geographic location. Another component of Reference USA is the U.S. Healthcare database that provides detailed information on more than 675,000 health care providers in the United States. Information includes physican and dentist name, age, location, state of license, certifications, medical specialties, and medical school background.
Used Book Sale (sponsored by the Murrysville Branch of AAUW, American Associations of University Women) Friday, Nov. 12, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov 13, 9:00a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Laird Hall of 1st Presbyterian Church 3202 North Hills Road in Murrysville Most books sold at $1 per stacked inch: others a special bargain prices. $10 bag sale Saturday 12:15 -4:00 p.m. Sale benefits local libraries and community service organizations.
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3 9
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THE GARDEN CLUB OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY
Creating
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Preserving it for Future Generations he Garden Club of Allegheny County has been helping to create beautiful outdoor surroundings and educating all ages about the importance of conserving our natural spaces since 1914. Some of their projects in the recent past include creating a Therapy Garden in Swissvale for women in the Power program, or Pennsylvania Organization for Women in Early Recovery. This program helps women through the early stages of recovery from dependence on drugs or alcohol. The Therapy Garden was designed to help the women focus on creating beauty and to bring inner peace. At the Powdermill Nature Reserve the Garden Club of Allegheny County helped contribute funds to launch a program that manages wastewater using completely natural processes that do not disturb the ecosystem of the reserve. Referred to as the Marsh Machine, the mechanism naturally purifies the wastewater through the use of gravity and natural sunlight. Conservation is a core objective for the club and they have supported many local projects in an effort to educate our youth about preserving our natural environment. One program in which they have been actively involved is “A Garden in Every School.� This initiative helps schools to create vegetable gardens on campus where the children can learn about growing their own produce which is then served in the school cafeteria. In addition to the wonderful local projects, the Garden Club of Allegheny County has been able to contribute to vital research that is effecting positive global change.
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Longtime club members Paula Sculley and Susan Clancy launched a program in 1995 called “Botany in Action.” The program was in direct response to the concern for our vanishing rainforests and the loss of indigenous plant species. Many of these plant species are indispensable in the treatment of certain diseases. The Botany in Action program sponsors graduate students who are working in endangered hotspots, such as the South American rainforests to aid them in continuing their education and the groundbreaking research that they are conducting. Some of this research has led to the discovery of using plants for medicinal purposes such as saw palmetto to treat enlarged prostate and a plant commonly known as dragon’s blood to promote faster healing. Although the Garden Club turned the Botany in Action program over to Phipps Conservatory in 2000, they still actively contribute to its funding. Without fundraising, the Garden Club of Allegheny County would not have been able to support so many meaningful projects. Surprisingly, the club holds only one major fundraiser a year called Pizzazz. Sculley and Clancy were also the catalysts in launching this event in 1995. Sculley explains that her daughter was weaving beautiful shawls at the time and Clancy’s daughter was crafting monogrammed duffel bags. The two women got together and decided to hold a trunk show selling the hand-crafted wares to benefit the Garden Club. When other club members learned of the idea, they quickly contacted other vendors to participate.
The first Pizzazz event was held at Clancy’s house and according to Clancy was a rainy, stormy, horrible day. “It was terrible weather for getting outside, but wonderful weather for shopping.” In just a few hours they had made $17,000 to sponsor their projects! “There were so many people we had to have them come in and shop in shifts,” says Sculley. This one-day trunk show has evolved into a three-day boutique shopping event. Pizzazz 2010 will be held at the Fox Chapel Golf Club, from October 20 - 22. Admission to the event is just $10 for daytime shopping. A buffet luncheon is included for a $25 admission price. This will be a unique opportunity to shop for exclusive items and Christmas gifts from 34 vendors from various parts of the U.S. Proceeds this year will help benefit local projects and the rooftop garden of the Center for Sustainable Landscapes Building at Phipps Conservatory. This rooftop garden will be beautifully landscaped and contain an edible vegetable garden. Several different green building methods will be used to generate energy onsite and to treat and re-use all water used in the building in an attempt to conserve our natural resources. Sculley adds, “A lot of people think of the outdoors as a dangerous place. But in fact it’s very healing and stress relieving. Nature gives us a different perspective on human life.” If you are interested in attending the event or would like more information on the activities of the Garden Club of Allegheny County, you may visit their website at www. gcacpgh.org.
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6:30 p p.m.– .m.– 8:30 p.m. p.m m. “Bring “Bring a Friend Friend for fo for Free” $30 for $30 for one fo one or or two. two. Enjoy Enj njoy a glass glass of of w wine ine and and munchies! munchies! FFor or dinner dinner rreservations, eser vations, gguests uests may may call call 4 12-967-9081 412-967-9081
Friday, Frida ayy, y, October 22 • 9:30 a.m.– 3:00 p.m. p.m. $10 admission; $10 admission; $25 $25 admission admission with with buffet wi buffet lunch lunch 1 11 1 aa.m.–2 .m. –2 p.m. R eser vations required. required. Reservations For reser reservations vations onl only: y: Jennifer Jeenniffer er Muse at 412-422-0921 or jjm use5437@gmail.com om jjmuse5437@gmail.com inquiries: Other inquir ies: info@gcacpgh.org inffo@gcacpgh.or o@gcacpgh.org or pizzazz@gcacpgh.org pizzazz@gcacpgh.orrgg Visit www www.gcacpgh.org, w.gcacpgh.or .gcacpgh.orrg, Facebook, Twitter Tw witter
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 4 3
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The beginning of the school year can bring a rush of emotion for kids and parents. Some are happy and excited; some are sad and anxious. Most are somewhere in between. Here are some things to keep in mind to help children ease into their classes more comfortably. Looking back over other “firsts” or changes in a child’s life can suggest whether your child is flexible or if they will have a harder time adapting to the start of school. If you think there may be concerns, mention the topic to your son or daughter, asking open-ended questions like “What are you excited about…?” or “What might be hard for you…?” Try to stay calm and supportive. Meeting the teacher or making a visit to the school ahead of time can sometimes lessen everyone’s fears. Inviting a future classmate to your home or to meet up at a local park can take away some of the “new kid” jitters. Introduce an older child in the neighborhood who can be a familiar face for a younger first-time bus rider. And don’t be afraid to share your own stories and feelings about starting school when you were young. It helps for kids to know that their parents had similar experiences and made it through! During the first days of school, your child may be stressed. Try to stay available and supportive, avoiding stressful situations like intense movies or irregular sleep schedules. Everyone handles stress better after a good night’s sleep, so start switching from summer hours to an appropriate bedtime a couple of weeks ahead of time. Consider limiting TV and video games on school nights, and moving them out of bedrooms altogether! Keep your home routine predictable, and allow adequate time in the morning by preparing clothes, lunches and papers the night before. Make every effort to have your child eat breakfast; creative ideas include breakfast sandwiches, protein shakes and purchased yogurt smoothies. A trip to the grocery store with your child allows you both to come up with ideas for lunches and snacks that are low in processed sugars. If your child buys lunch, make sure their school limits their access to candy and soda pop. Students often carry heavy loads on their shoulders. Backpacks should be as lightweight as possible for children of all ages, with padded straps. The American Society of Orthopedics recommends that a loaded backpack should be no more than 20% of a child’s weight.
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For example, a 70 pound kid should be carrying no more than 14 pounds. Weed out unnecessary items regularly. If the backpack is too heavy, consider talking to the school about a second copy of textbooks to be kept at home. And encourage your child to wear both shoulder straps to distribute the weight more evenly. If problems with school come up and last more than a couple of weeks, talk to your child’s teacher or doctor for more ideas.
Dr. Leslie Frank CCP/GIL
You can rely on the pediatricians of CCP-Murrysville to provide the highest quality pediatric and adolescent health care available and to bring that care close to home. Harold M. Glick, MD Leroy S. Indorato, MD Sheldon R. Levine, MD Keith S. Somers, MD Sunita A. Chaudhari, MD
Kim A. Ogle, MD Jamie McNanie, MD James Shaver, MD Leslie Frank, MD
Affiliated with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC
M urrysville Ferri Professional Building 3907 Old William Penn Highway Murrysville, PA 15668 Ph: 724-327-5210
P it t sb urg h - T h e V illag e of E ast S ide 6343 Penn Ave., Suite 201 Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (above Trader Joe’s) Ph: 412-363-2200
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Back to School Jokes Adopt a Pet: T-Bone Q: What's the worst thing you're likely to find in the school cafeteria? A: The food! Q: Why did nose not want to go to school? A: He was tired of getting picked on! Q: How do you get straight A's? A: By using a ruler! Q: What did the pen say to the pencil? A: "So, what's your point?" Q: What did you learn in school today? A: "Not enough, I have to go back tomorrow!"
When you meet T-Bone, he will offer you a Beagle smile and shyly, by surely, try to climb into your lap. This gentle fellow is brimming with affection and simply needs someone to give it to. A couple months ago, T-Bone probably felt like the luckiest, most beloved dog in the world. But then, sadly, his owner passed away. T-Bone came to Animal Friends, 10 years old and hoping to find a second chance and a fresh start. T-Bone is calm, lovable, and simply wants to share your company. He is curious and friendly around other dogs and
enjoys peaceful rides in the car. He is crate trained and always polite. But most of all, T-Bone is lovable. He adores people and constantly wants to cuddle. While it’s obvious that he loves all women, we’ve noticed that he is particularly drawn to men. Perhaps they remind him of his Dad, who he misses so much. If you are looking for a companion who’s more interested in cuddling and relaxing than playing, T-Bone could be the one for you. T-Bone is currently in foster care. If you can help a loving and deserving dog, call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002.
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you and your mom or dad have decided you're mature enough to take care of yourself after school. Every weekday, you'll come home, let yourself in, and then what? Good question! This is why you'll need to set up some rules - before you're home alone.
Find each of these words in this puzzle.
Back to School!
go over the rules out loud. But whatever method you use, there are a lot of questions to talk about, like:
âœŞ Should you call mom or dad as soon as you get home?
Some families put up a list of rules where everyone can see them, like on the refrigerator door. Other families write out a contract and have each member sign it, saying they agree to the rules. Or a family might just
âœŞ Are you allowed to watch TV, DVDs, videos, or play computer games? If so, which ones and for how long? âœŞ Should homework be done first, even before chores? âœŞ Can friends come over? If so, how many? âœŞ What can you eat if you want a snack? âœŞ Can you go outside, and if so, where? âœŞ Which appliances can be used? (microwave, computer, etc.) âœŞ Which chores need to be done and by when? âœŞ Should your parent call home just before leaving work each day? For example, would it help to have a heads-up in time to finish any lastminute chores before they arrive?
Murrysville | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 4 9
603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com
| I N BEDFORD COUNTY | | I N BETHEL PARK | | I N BRENTWOOD-BALDWINWHITEHALL | | I N CANON-MAC | | I N CHARTIERS VALLEY | | I N FOX CHAPEL | | I N HAMPTON | | I N KEYSTONE OAKS | | I N MARS AREA | | I N McKEESPORT AREA | | I N MERCER COUNTY | | I N MONROEVILLE | | I N MONTOUR | | I N MOON TOWNSHIP | | I N MT. LEBANON | |
MURRYSVILLE |
| I N NORTH ALLEGHENY | | I N NORWIN | | I N PENN HILLS | | I N PETERS TOWNSHIP | | I N PINE-RICHLAND | | I N PLUM |
You can find world-class ear, nose, and throat care in Monroeville.
| I N ROSS TOWNSHIP | | I N SENECA VALLEY | | I N SEWICKLEY AREA | | I N SHALER | | I N SOUTH FAYETTE | | I N UPPER ST. CLAIR | | I N WET ALLEGHENY | | I N WEST JEFFERSON HILLS | | I N WEST MIFFLIN |
Come to our Monroeville office for specialized ear, nose, and throat care. From ear infections to sleep disorders, our doctors at University Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists treat a wide range of ailments. In addition, our licensed audiologist offers comprehensive audiology services, including hearing aids. We are part of the highly regarded Department of Otolaryngology at UPMC, and offer the convenience of evening and weekend hours. At our new Monroeville office, you get expert ear, nose, and throat care from recognized leaders in otolaryngology — closer to home than ever.
| I N WOODLAND HILLS |
For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC or visit upmc.com/ent.
University Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists 125 Daugherty Drive, Suite 400 Monroeville, PA 15146