Summer 2010
oss Township COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
! D L SO
Introducing a health plan option for small business designed to save green. asy to use, conomical and Environmentally friendly.
Enjoy a discount and the ease of 24/7 on-line access for all of your health plan needs. Has there ever been an easier business decision? At UPMC Health Plan, we want to make it that simple. That’s why we’ve introduced the region’s most comprehensive all-electronic option. It’s called and it’s an easy-to-use, paperless option that complements any of our Small Business Advantage health plans. With , all enrollment, billing, claims, and payments are conducted online – providing you and your employees with greater convenience. Your employees also enjoy easy access to all their health information, wellness tools, and health support. And, as always, you and your employees have access to our network of more than 80 hospitals and 7,000 physicians, and the award-winning member service you expect from UPMC Health Plan. In other words you get more for less. To learn more about how you can save, go to upmchealthplan.com.
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.
Features
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2 4 Industry Insights
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OPEN YOUR HEART TO A SENIOR
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IN ROSS TOWNSHIP REAL ESTATE
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UPMC TODAY
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Should I Have My Veins Evaluated? Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 By Theresa Schneider
Sections North HIlls School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
IN Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
HONORING OUR LOCAL SERVICE MEN & WOMEN on the cover
Representing some of the Best in Ross Township Real Estate – Barbara Slade, ReMax Realty, Ron Guthrie, Howard Hanna Real Estate and Nancy Mathews, Northwood Realty PHOTO BY GARY YON PHOTOGRAPHY
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it. Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
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Open Your Heart
By Jonathan Barnes
hen McCandless resident Mary Allshouse needs a ride to the store or elsewhere, she’s got a group of helping hands at her service, thanks to a new initiative geared toward keeping seniors living in their homes as long as they are able. Allshouse, 90, had a nice outing recently with Dee, one of the Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteers. She took Allshouse shopping and Allshouse returned the favor, buying lunch for the two of them. “It was very enjoyable,” said Allshouse. “The volunteers are very lovely people, very enjoyable.” The program, a one-year partnership of North Hills Community Outreach (NHCO) and Family Services of Western Pennsylvania, is made possible through funding from the United Way of Allegheny County. The necessity of the initiative was determined through a study by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health which was funded by the United Way of Allegheny County, said Nancy Jones, North Boroughs Outreach Manager for NHCO.
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“The idea is to let the community know there are seniors who need a ride to the grocery store or to the doctor’s office, or a visit or a friendly call.”
2 724.942.0940 to advertise
Ross Township Ross Township Municipal Center 1000 Ross Municipal Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.931.7055 www.ross.pa.us Business Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
Municipal Departments
For several years both NHCO and Family Services have had outreach programs geared toward helping seniors in their homes. From the University of Pittsburgh study, the United Way identified the care of frail, home-bound seniors as one of the most serious issues in the region. The United Way also learned that both NHCO and Family Services’ programs were struggling to get enough volunteers to help seniors. “The initiative is designed to help recruit more volunteers,” Jones said. “The idea is to let the community know there are seniors who need a ride to the grocery store or to the doctor’s office, or a visit or a friendly call.” Those interested in volunteering to help a senior in need are welcome to join the effort. They help by providing transportation for seniors to medical appointments, pharmacy visits, yard work or simply helping them with correspondence or bills. For more information on the Open Your Heart to a Senior program, email seniors@nhco.org, or call 412.307.0071 or toll-free 866.467.0888.
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Building Inspector . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.7055 Code Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.7055 Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.7055 Ext. 207 Fire Marshall . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.7055 Ext. 236 Parks & Recreation . . . . . .412.931.7055 Ext. 204 Police Department . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.6200 Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .911 Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.3956 Real Estate Tax Office . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.4200 Tax Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.931.4200 Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Ross Township Administration Manager: Wayne Jones Building Code Official/ Zoning Officer: Dan Hankins Chief of Police: Ralph Freedman Building Inspector: Dennis Schack Engineer: Art Gazdik, P.E. Finance Director: Wayne Jones Fire Marshal: John Reubi Parks & Recreation Director: Pete Geis Public Works Director: James Stack
Ross Township Commissioners Daniel DeMarco Chris Eyster Daniel Kinross Lana Mazur Grace Stanko David Mikec Gerald O’Brien Peter Ferraro Grant Montgomery
1st Ward 2nd Ward 3rd Ward 4th Ward 5th Ward 6th Ward 7th Ward 8th Ward 9th Ward
If you need to know what Ward you are in and who your Commissioner is or if you want to get in contact with a commissioner, call the Ross Township general number at 412.931.7055.
FROM THE PUBlISHER
oss T ownship Summer 2010 IN Ross Township magazine is a non-partisan community magazine dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting Ross Township by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com MANAGING EDITOR Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com
elcome to the summer issue of IN Ross Township. I hope this magazine reaches your mailbox on a clear, warm day. Why? Because the stories we feature here highlight people doing things in your community. They didn’t need good weather to get out and do something that makes a difference. But if you’re like me, having a clear sky is a definite motivator. Being outside, hearing birds chirping, smelling that freshly cut grass and having a nice glass of lemonade gives me the fortification to go above and beyond. We should all aim to do one thing this summer – even if it’s on a rainy day – to benefit those around us or our community as a whole. Not only will you get a great sense of satisfaction for yourself, you will make a difference in someone’s life. I’d like to hear about what you did to make a difference this summer – E-mail our managing editor, Marybeth Jeffries at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with the information of what you did to make a difference. Who knows? You may just end up in the pages of the next IN Ross Township magazine, and read about yourself over a nice glass of lemonade. Have a great summer IN Ross Township.
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OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN Cassie Brkich Susie Doak Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda PHOTOGRAPHERS Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions ADVERTISING SALES Renee Bennett Nicholas Buzzell Tina Dollard Rose Estes Linda Hall Jason Huffman Krista McKinnon-Mahoney Brian McKee David Mitchell Linda Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Tara Reis Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti
ummer! I didn’t think it would ever get here. Now that I am able to get out my gardening tools and get busy “out there” it seems to me that many of you are doing the same thing. Getting out there I mean. In this issue you will get to read about the Open Your Heart to a Senior program which helps seniors in the community get much needed help with household chores and rides to their appointments. Did you know that Allegheny County has one of the largest populations of seniors living in our communities? Programs like Open Your Heart to a Senior are much needed and deserved to be recognized for their efforts! We also want to make sure that you know we want to recognize all of the men and women who are serving in our country’s military. If you have a family member from the community who is serving, please send us their photo and where they are so that we can honor them! We are very blessed at In Ross Township Magazine to be able to have the opportunity to share such wonderful stories with you, our readers. I hope you will keep us in mind when you run in to someone who is worthy of recognition. You can write to me at the magazine, marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Enjoy!
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FROM THE EDITOR
WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Julie Barnes Karen Ferrieri Alisha Hipwell Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Chris Weber
Calling all IN Ross Township Readers!
Fall Issue Deadline: July 15, 2010
Do you know someone in your school or neighborhood who is doing something positive to benefit our community? We’d like to know about it! Contact Marybeth Jeffries – North Editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with your suggestions!
IN Ross Township, published quarterly, is carrier route mailed to all Ross Township and West View households. Extra copies of the magazine are available at the Ross Township building. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.
www.incommunitymagazines.com Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
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REAL ESTATE R oss Tow nship
Adding Curb Appeal Can Make a Home Stand Out by Jonathan Barnes
pring and summer are a gardener’s time of year, when pruning, cleaning, planting and maintenance of a landscape are most laborintensive. For green-thumbed folks the work is a loving labor, though feeling alone won’t bring success when the task is enhancing a landscape in a smart way. Figuring out how to make a home’s frontage “pop” can be a task best left to professionals, but for the savvy homeowner, a few good tips can make a noticeable difference. Whether it is a front yard’s harder features, its plants or its overall design, adding curb appeal often comes down to bringing something of interest to the space to make it stand apart from the others around it. To achieve outstanding curb appeal, homeowners should take a second look at how their front yards are functioning, experts throughout Pittsburgh’s suburbs recommend. Are the yard’s design elements working harmoniously together, so aspects of the home’s construction and particulars of its landscape are given correct exposure? If not, things probably should change, but how? Asking and answering such questions can help a homeowner to enhance their property’s frontage, but it also can open them to the possibility of other notions for improving their yard. Such ideas can go far in helping to make a home the property that neighbors stop and tarry in front of, admiring its contours and colors. “Curb appeal is really important,” said Jan Schoeneberger, manager and associate broker with Prudential Fox Chapel. “When you see people who have the visual part of their home tidy and in good order, the assumption goes that the things that are hidden are as well. You’re either caretakers or you’re not. It’s reassuring as opposed to something that is unkempt. It’s a sense of security. It invites you to want to take a peek further. It’s a buyer’s market and you want to give yourself every advantage you can.”
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Water or Stone? Making a space less linear is one place to start when redesigning a front yard, said Jeff Blunkosky, chief operations officer of McDonaldbased Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes. For example, a straight concrete walkway leading to the home could be replaced with a curved walkway composed of paving stones. “Adding an earth tone hardscape can bring everything together,” Blunkosky said, noting that some manufactured pavers are stronger than many driveways. Because of this, some homeowners are choosing to replace their driveways with pavers, he noted.
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oss T ownship magazines proudly announces IN Ross Township Real Estate– a comprehensive look at the Ross Township market. In this section, you'll find interesting information about creating beautiful spaces to live in, choosing a real estate professional to help you buy or sell a home as well as other interesting facts about your community. While concrete contractors will give up to a one-year warranty on their work, manufactured pavers can last decades, Blunkosky said. When planning a major change to a front yard’s hardscape such as a new walkway, choosing the right color is essential. A new walkway should be comprised of a material with a color that is complementary to the house. “A red brick house doesn’t need a red brick walkway. You want to use a brown paver,” Blunkosky said. “You always want to use a secondary color, not the main color… Using the main color for a hardscape can be overwhelming [to the eye].” Avoiding straight lines in other hardscape features, such as retaining walls, can be a smart idea, too. Replacing a tired straight retaining wall with a new colorful wall with a curved edge can make the yard more interesting. The cost of such improvements isn’t always small. Paver walkways can run from $16 to $22 per square foot (depending upon the type of paver, placement of the walkway and the size of the walkway), while concrete walkways made of exposed aggregate or made of stamped concrete run about the same price. Blunkosky isn’t a big fan of stamped concrete. “Why do they stamp concrete? To make it look like a superior product,” he said.
Creating Focal Points People who aren’t trained in landscaping or who didn’t grow up gardening can become overwhelmed when trying to decide what to do with a worn-out looking landscape. Sometimes, less is more—that is, adding just one more design element could make a noticeable difference. Some homeowners are using topiaries more often these days to add such interest, said Randy Soergel, who along with his wife Beth co-owns Soergel’s Orchards Garden Center in Franklin Park. “You don’t put [the topiary] in and forget about it,” Soergel said, adding that two rules apply to landscaping. “Don’t plant vegetation where there won’t be good drainage. And if a plant dries out just once, it’s done.” Until a plant’s roots can find their own water, regularly watering is essential. Some plants take up to two years to establish their roots, Soergel said. Most homeowners are rejuvenating their yards at this time of year, rather than planting new landscapes altogether. An older-looking landscape can be spruced up by pruning some plants such as overgrown bushes near the home, and by removing other plants that are too large and out of proportion with the space. Incorporating one focal point for the yard, with a topiary, a Japanese maple tree, a sitting area, a small pond or even a particular stone or
REAL ESTATE R oss Tow nship
New vs.Existing Homes It’s All a Matter of Preference uying a house creates a lot of decisions that need to be made. First and foremost is whether or not you are going to opt for a new home or buy an existing home. While that decision may be made by your budget, it can also be made by your quality of life needs. The good news is that, according to those in the industry, Western Pennsylvania has no shortage of homes to choose from. One of the benefits to a new home is the fact that the demand for emptynesters has driven their design, making them ideal for those who are looking to scale down or prepare for their golden years. Many newly constructed homes are single level, offer amenities for a graying population such as included maintenance, and are built in convenient locations that are close to shopping, services and entertainment venues. Jan Schoeneberger, manager and associate broker with Prudential Fox Chapel, said new homes tend to be a little bit more expensive, but the North Hills still leads the region in terms of new construction. “New home construction at the moment tends to be a little more pricey square footage wise, although homebuyers aren’t looking at that when it comes to the home price,” she said. “We find in the Fox Chapel and Hampton offices that you have the buyers who love the charm of an older home and, unless you’re willing to pay for a new home with all the high-end details, you’re not going to find that charm that automatically comes with an older home.” Schoeneberger also said that banks have “pulled the reigns in” when it comes to lending to builders of new construction, which has slowed the market down, albeit only marginally. Chris Murphy, owner with RE/MAX North Hills, said that while new homes may be appealing, they may be out of the reach of all homebuyers. “The new construction price range in the marketplace is about $350,000 and up. If you’re looking for under that, you’re not going to find any or they’ll be really small at best. Price is going to yield a lot,” Murphy said. “Where as, if you’re looking for an existing home, there are some great buys out there. We didn’t have the parties and we don’t have the hangover, like the other pockets of the country. They’re feeling the pain of the price adjustment. In our market, our homes are worth more today than they were yesterday. Plus, we had the perfect storm for homebuyers - low interest rates, the tax credit and pent-up demand of homes. People are saying, ‘The economy is what it is, things in my life are changing and I’m ready to buy a home or move up.’” When it comes down to it, Schoeneberger said choosing a new home over an existing home is a case of personal preference. “With our clients, we have a mixed bag and it’s across all generations,” she said. “Aspinwall’s a great area to see that. We have a lot of younger people looking at the older construction, and they like the appeal of the sidewalks and business district. It’s such a hot market right now. It’s the personal preference of the young professionals and is similar to what Shadyside went through about 30 years ago.”
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groundcover, can give the space more energy. Since the front yard is the first part of a home, creating interest is important to making the space inviting. Caring for the plants also is important in creating a beautiful landscape, but some homeowners are afraid to prune plants because they fear they’ll kill the plant, Soergel said. “We try to teach people how to maintain the landscaping they have, including when and how to prune,” Soergel said. The garden center offers free classes to people interested in learning more about how to maintain their yards. At 7 p.m. every Tuesday night in April and May, Soergel’s Orchards Garden Center hosts a do it yourself class teaching about landscaping and yard care. Those interested in attending a class are asked to register by calling the garden center at 724.935.2090, or emailing randysoergel@gmail.com.
Curve Appeal One of the most prominent trends in re-imagining front yards with existing landscapes is changing the yard’s contours. Many homeowners are replacing their straight concrete paver and wood-tie walls with colored concrete block walls that are laid down without mortar and are pretty easy to install, said Tony Verrico, owner of Verrico landscape Supply in Penn Hills. The local supply yard carries 10 hues of the Versa-lok wall material, as well as different types of pavers to enhance a yard. The walls can last up to 40 years, Verrico said. “We’re seeing a lot of concrete driveways being removed and replaced with pavers,” he said. Straight retaining walls are being replaced with curved walls, which sometimes have a planter incorporated into them at the front of the yard, Verrico said, adding that he is seeing more straight steps replaced by new curved steps as a way to make the yard more interesting.
Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
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REAL ESTATE R oss Tow nship
North Hills is still growing
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n the North Hills, part of the residential construction and sales most avidly sought by buyers is what some would think of as atypical—multi-family housing. Bob Brennan, president of Evans City-based Brennan Builders Inc., said multi-family homes are selling well in the North Hills because many empty-nesters and retirees are downsizing to such homes. In a region that has one of the highest concentrations of elderly in the nation, that means sales. “The multi-family home lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular with the aging population of Allegheny County,” Brennan said. The developer said its neighborhood, The Village at Treesdale, which includes multiple clusters of multi-family homes grouped two, three and four homes together,
is selling well. With 53 units total, the neighborhood already has 12 units occupied and another four units under contract. “That’s a very hot product for us these days,” Brennan said. There’s also good news on the horizon for housing in the North suburbs of Pittsburgh, said Brennan, who runs his 52-year-old family business with his relatives. The Westinghouse headquarters campus being built along Route 228 in Cranberry Township will bring with it 4,000 to 5,000 workers new to the area. Of that number, about half or more will buy homes, Brennan said. That influx of employees, many of whom will live in the area, will mean a steady completion of new homes in various price ranges being built for years to come, Brennan said. Eventually, the area will have a new look because of the construction.
CanIQualify foraMortgage? By Karen Ferrieri
eople are talking these days about whether or not banks are actually lending money. The housing market in Pittsburgh is still a fairly strong one and people are trying to take advantage of programs out there to give first home buyers tax credits of up to 10% of the total selling price of the house, up to $8,000. Or, if you currently own a home but want to buy another home that would now be your primary residence, you could also receive a tax credit of up to $6,500. And, of course, people are scrambling to take advantage of the high foreclosure market right now. So, with that in mind, they are wondering, “Can I qualify for a mortgage?” Sally Minnock, Home Mortgage Consultant for First Commonwealth Home Mortgage, a Joint Venture with Wells Fargo Bank and First Commonwealth Bank, stated that, “Yes, banks are lending, however, the process has become a lot stricter in that there is a lot more documentation and paperwork necessary to verify everything before the loan application is completed and reviewed. The days of obtaining ‘limited documented loans’ are over. They don’t exist anymore. Now, everything has to be documented for proof. We are now underwriting the way it was done thirty years ago.”
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It’s not all good news in Pittsburgh’s North suburbs, with the economic situation and new government regulations on banking impinging upon sales somewhat. For developers, finding the financing necessary to develop new land is becoming increasingly difficult, Brennan said. Even so, more buyers are asking for options in their new homes that will cost more in the short-run but save money down the line. Many buyers are asking that green building techniques be used in their home’s construction, while others are asking for green appliances that are Energy Star approved, Brennan said. “In the homebuilding industry, these things are becoming more standard,” he said.
According to Ms. Minnock, interest rates are still determined based on credit scoring. You can get a great interest rate with a credit score of 740. However, if your credit score is below 740 your rate will likely increase with a conventional loan. However, if you are applying for a FHA loan, having a credit score in the 620s will enable you to still qualify for a loan, although 3.5% of the selling price of the house is still needed on a FHA loan as a down payment. When you talk to your mortgage consultant for the first time, they will most likely punch in to an automated system your name, address, social security number and credit score to determine what interest rate you’d be eligible for. For first time home buyers, this entire process can be confusing. However, Ms. Minnock suggests working with your real estate agent and a mortgage consultant to help guide you through the process. They can look at whether or not you are ready to buy a house based on many factors, including your income, current financial situation, and your credit score. They will need a lot of personal information to be able to guide you effectively, but it is worth doing a lot of the work upfront before you start searching for a house. Finding all of the necessary paperwork that you will need during the final application process where the documentation is absolutely necessary, will help you avoid putting yourself in a stressful buying situation. Plus, you will know exactly what you qualify for or what you will need to do to get to the point of actually getting the loan. Obtaining a loan and your dream house is not impossible if you are willing to be patient, organized and go through the steps to qualify before you start searching for the perfect home.
Proper Colorectal Screening
“Colon cancer is a very lethal, but preventable disease. Approximately 30- to 40-percent of all adults will develop polyps in their lifetime, and the lifetime risk of a colon or rectal cancer is about 5 percent – about the same risk as developing appendicitis. However, unlike appendicitis, 50,000 Americans die because of colon cancer every year.” Dr. James Celebrezze
f you ask Dr. James Celebrezze, assistant professor of surgery and a colon and rectal surgeon at UPMC Passavant-Cranberry, having a routine colonoscopy today can save your life tomorrow. However, the perceived inconvenience and general ignorance of the procedure can be a dangerous deterrent to discovering the polyps and cancers that can be treated rather routinely if found early. So when should you schedule your exam? “like most things in medicine, it depends,” Celebrezze said. “If the patient has no family history of colon cancer or polyps, screenings should start at age 50, with a follow-up exam every five to 10 years afterward. In my opinion, colonoscopy is the best screening option. It is preventive as well as therapeutic, since we can remove any polyps we detect during the exam.” That convenience isn’t afforded to other exams such as blood testing, CT scans or barium enemas, he said, since any polyps that are found would require a colonoscopy. Patients who are considered moderate to highrisk should start their screenings earlier, typically 10 years earlier than the age at which the family member’s cancer was detected.
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Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
“Colon cancer is a very lethal, but preventable disease,” Celebrezze said. Approximately 30- to 40-percent of all adults will develop polyps in their lifetime, and the lifetime risk of a colon or rectal cancer is about 5 percent – about the same risk as developing appendicitis. However, unlike appendicitis, 50,000 Americans die because of colon cancer every year. Polyps typically take 40 years to grow, and about 8 to 10 additional years to develop into cancer, which is why five to 10-year screenings are recommended after age 50. Polyps and colon cancer may present no symptoms until they are in advanced stages. less than 50 percent of adults in the U.S. have adequate screening, and in Western Pennsylvania, the numbers are worse: only 20 to 25 percent of adults are appropriately screened. What’s more, the causes of colon cancer are unknown. While Celebrezze always advocates a diet high in fiber and calcium for overall good health, studies have not proven that specialized diets prevent or reduce polyps or colon cancer. “A balanced, high fiber diet in general will be a healthier diet,” he said. “But it does not negate the need for screening.” While no procedure is fail-safe, colonoscopies are very safe when compared to other medical tests. Patients are given intravenous sedation for the procedure and are unaware of what’s going on at the time of the exam. Preparation begins a day before the procedure with a hefty dosage of oral laxatives. Celebrezze said the day is, admittedly, unpleasant, but is well worth the trouble to ensure that the patient has a clean colon for examination. “In the greater scheme of things, the downside is nothing compared to the preventive upside to the patient if polyps or cancer is found,” he said. “The tragedy is when I see someone in their late 50s or early 60s with colon cancer. If they had their screening at age 50, we likely wouldn’t be discussing treatment options for cancer,” said Celebrezze. Patients eligible for and looking to schedule an exam should see a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist.
www.incommunitymagazines.com 7
SHE BROKE
THE GLASS
CEILING BEFORE ANYONE EVER
CALLED IT THAT. NOW SHE JUST NEEDS
A CONVERSATION.
Volunteer now. Thousands of seniors are trying hard to remain independent. But they need our help. A friendly visit. A ride to a doctor’s office. Even simple help with grocery shopping. Please join us. Volunteers are needed in every neighborhood, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Learn more at 412-307-0071 or www. openyourhearttoasenior.org. An initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach
Summer for Free JOIN BEFORE JULY 31ST AND GET UP TO 3 MONTHS FREE WITH A 12-MONTH AGREEMENT. Enjoy over 150,000 square feet of tennis, cardio/strength equipment, racquetball, squash, aquatics, group fitness classes, Pilates, yoga and children’s programming. Izzazu Salon & Spa—Open to the public.
2010 MEMORIES
WHY ARE YOU WAITING?
CALL TODAY!
START YOUR SUMMER FOR FREE 100 VILLAGE CLUB DRIVE, WEXFORD, PA 15090 724-933-1911, EXT. 1 WWW.OXFORDATHLETICCLUB.COM
www.oxfordathleticclub.com
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New members only with 12-month contract. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Call for details. Offer expires July 31, 2010.
ADMINISTRATION Dr. Joseph Goodnack Superintendent David Hall Director of Finance & Operations Dr. Marilyn Cain Director of Elementary Education & Professional Services Dr. Rita Neu Asst. to the Superintendent, Pupil Services Jeff Taylor Director of Curriculum and Assessment Valerie Mengine Director of Human Resources Tina Vojtko Communications Coordinator George Zappas Director of Food Services Dan Cardone Director of Athletics & Activities Patrick Mannarino Principal, North Hills Senior High Kevin O’Toole Asst. Principal, North Hills Senior High
NORTH HIllS SCHOOl DISTRICT 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15229 412.318.1000 Fax: 412.318.1084 For more information on North Hills School District activities, athletics, events and more, visit www.nhsd.net
Johanna Vanatta Asst. Principal, North Hills Senior High John Kreider Principal, North Hills Junior High Jonathan Peebles Asst. Principal, North Hills Junior High Bill McGahee Asst. Principal, North Hills Junior High
NORTH HIllS SCHOOl BOARD OF EDUCATION Edward M. Wielgus President
Beth Williams Principal, Highcliff Elementary
Thomas l. Kelly Vice President
Amy Mathieu Principal, McIntyre Elementary
Robert l. Barto Arlene J. Bender Timothy F. Burnett Jeffrey A. Meyer lou Nudi Kathy Reid Sharon A. Schrim
Elaine Obidowski Principal, Perrysville Elementary David lieberman Principal, Ross Elementary Marc Thornton Principal, Seville Elementary Walter Rodriguez Principal, West View Elementary
The North Hills School Board, which is comprised of nine members who are elected to four-year terms, welcomes your comments and suggestions and invites public participation at its meetings. The board secretary, lynne Phillips, can be reached as follows: Administration Center 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15229 Phone: 412.318.1004 Fax: 412.318.1084 Email: phillipsl@nhsd.net
Michael J. Witherel, Esq. Solicitor lynne Phillips Board Secretary
Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township
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North Hills School District
Students earn top honors at science competition ive North Hills students earned first place honors in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science regional competition and advanced to the state competition in May at the Pennsylvania State University. Earning top honors were seventh graders Jacob Gettens, The Affects of Temperature on lED's; Marie McConnell, Corrosive Effects of Acid Rain Deposition on Building Materials; and Joel Zewe, Conductivity Differences in Transformers; as well as ninth graders Cammie Garth, What Effect does UV light have on Yeast?; and Anna Madrishin, Herb vs. Antibiotic in the Battle Against Bacteria. In addition to earning first place, three students received special awards for their projects. Marie McConnell was awarded the Westinghouse Pittsburgh Chapter of Women in Nuclear Award as well as the Scientific Excellence Award from the Pittsburgh Society of Women Engineers. Joel Zewe received an award from the American Nuclear Society. Cammie Garth was recognized by Duquesne
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University Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry for Outstanding Achievement in Chemistry and Biochemistry (grades 9-12). Second place honors were awarded to seventh grader Andrew Nolish, The Effects of Common Household Toxins on First and Second Generation Plants; eighth grader Alain Niyibizi, The Aerodynamics of Paper Airplanes; and ninth graders Kelly Gordon, The Effects of Caffeine on Daphnia; and Robyn Madrishin, The Effects of Tobacco on Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells. Seventh grader Matthew Seltzer earned third place honors for Mac vs. PC. North Hills PJAS students were sponsored by junior high science teachers Heather Cobbey and laurie Ahrenholtz. The regional competition was held on Feb.2 7, 2010, at Keystone Oaks High School. PJAS is a statewide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest in science among its members through the development of research projects and investigations.
Alumni marching band reunion set for Sept. 11 – Band Festival ust off the instrument, find that senior flag and majorette baton and plan to reconnect with your band friends and family at the North Hills Alumni Marching Band Reunion on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010. This alumni band event will be held in conjunction with the annual North Hills Marching Band Festival – which is celebrating its 50th year and is the longest running festival in the region. The first reunion ever was held in 2007. The 260-member North Hills Alumni Band made its debut performance at Martorelli Stadium during the 47th Annual North Hills Marching Band Festival. Alumni traveled from 17 states as well as New Zealand to participate in the inaugural event. “What a wonderful celebration of over seven decades of the West View/North Hills High School Band legacy,” Areta Kalogeras, retired marching band director, said. “It was ‘Pride, Tradition and Excellence’ at its best!” Marching band members from the 1940s to the present are invited to participate. For more information, contact Ms. Areta Kalogeras at aretak108@comcast.net and join the growing NH Alumni Band group on Facebook.
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Kindergarten orientation scheduled for August indergarten orientation for incoming students and their families has been scheduled for Aug. 24 – 25 in the North Hills School District. Each elementary school will offer an introduction to the school and classroom as well as provide important information regarding school bus safety. Recognizing that the cafeteria and school bus are often sources of anxiety for new students and their parents, families will have the opportunity to experience both during the orientation program. A school lunch or breakfast will be provided in the cafeterias – the cost is $3.25 per adult and $1.75 per child. In addition, all students will have the opportunity to take a ride on a school bus. Kindergarten orientation programs are scheduled as follows:
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• West View Elementary 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 24th • McIntyre Elementary 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 24th • Highcliff Elementary 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 25th • Ross Elementary @ Northway 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 25th Incoming kindergarten families who have not yet registered for the 2010-11 school year, should contact Nataly Price at the district’s administration center, 412-3181045 or via email pricen@nhsd.net as soon as possible.
Food service moves to online system North Hills sweeps car design contest or the second straight year, North Hills Senior High School students swept the top three awards in the Pittsburgh Technical Institute’s Concept Car Design contest. Three seniors Jon Kolenda, Kyle Dobson and Steve Kitay earned first, second and third place finishes, respectively. The competition, sponsored by the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association, was held on Friday, April 30, 2010, at PTI and included teams from West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Students were challenged to design and market a vehicle that could be used on any college campus. Each team was required to submit the following: • 2D drawings showing vehicle from all perspectives • 3D computer-generated and/or physical scale model • Detailed marketing strategy • Window sticker including price,
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standard features, and available options • One page, typed paper describing the vehicle’s environmental, safety, and ergonomic features • One page, typed team process describing the team’s obstacles, major decision points, and accomplishments; including a timeline, photographs and drawings Teams also are required to make a 15-minute oral presentation of their project for the judges. Ten students from Mr. Jim Cassando’s Product Design class competed in the contest. Jon Kolenda, who earned first place, will study engineering at The Pennsylvania State University in the fall. Second place finisher Kyle Dobson will attend the University of Cincinnati to study architecture. Steve Kitay, third place, will major in marketing at Slippery Rock University.
Blankets of Bravery to warm 160 veterans eterans at the Southwestern Veterans Center will keep warm and cozy thanks to the generosity and hard work of dozens of Ross Elementary School sixth grade students. Throughout the spring, students created more than 160 blankets to donate to the center – far exceeding their original goal of 120 blankets. Under the direction of Ms. Karen Jones, gifted and high achieving specialist, sixth graders willingly sacrificed recess and other free time to work on the project. Volunteers included students in gifted education, accelerated math, student council as well as chorus. Ross Elementary parents and staff members also gave their time to help craft the blankets and to ensure the success of this endeavor. Students delivered the blankets to the Southwestern Veterans Center in May. The project, Blankets of Bravery, was partially funded through an $800 grant from Target Corporation.
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oon North Hills parents will no longer have to scramble each morning for lunch money and will gain a new tool to monitor their child’s eating habits. In April, the North Hills School District food service department launched a new program – www.mynutrikids.com – that provides each student with a food service account. The account enables parents to pre-pay for breakfast and lunch and, more importantly, monitor their child’s use via the Internet. Students simply enter their four-digit PIN on a keypad as they pass through the cafeteria line. Parents have the ability to view their child’s eating history report. This history report displays the dates and times that the student purchased a breakfast, lunch or å la carte item within the past 30 days. “With current national attention being focused on children’s health and wellness issues, this service provides another opportunity for parents to monitor and encourage healthy eating habits,” Mr. Zappas said. “In addition, by having money in each child’s account prior to entering the cafeteria, the lunch lines move along much faster – giving students more time to eat and be with friends.” There are two ways to add funds to an account: • Checks and cash can be forwarded to the school’s cafeteria manager. Similar to the previous system of purchasing lunch tickets, students can visit the cafeteria during homeroom to deliver their deposit. Funds will be entered into the online service by the cafeteria manager. Please note there is no transaction fee for this service. • Parents may add funds directly to an account online using a credit card or Pay Pal account. Please note there is a $1.75 transaction fee for each online deposit.
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Parents who prefer to send lunch money daily may continue to do so. In addition, previously purchased lunch tickets will continue to be accepted until supplies are depleted. The service was first implemented at North Hills Junior High in April and expanded to the senior high in May. Three elementary schools will welcome the service during the 2010-11 school year – West View beginning in the fall and, subsequently, McIntyre and Highcliff later in the year. The service will be added to Ross Elementary School when the renovation is completed in the fall of 2011. For more information, please contact the North Hills food services department at 412-318-1053.
Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township
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North Hills School District
6th Graders Participate in Annual Olympic Event The North Hills School District hosted its 32nd annual sixth grade Olympics on May 5, 2010, at Martorelli Stadium and Athletic Complex in West View Borough. More than 300 sixth grade students from the district’s six elementary schools competed in the day-long event. Activities included several running events, a softball throw, long jump, discus, shot put and tug-of-war.
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Redistricting P lan Set for Fall he North Hills School Board unanimously approved an elementary redistricting plan that will go into effect for the 2010-11 school year. The redistricting plan – based on the philosophy of moving as few students as possible – was approved on March 15, 2010. The plan reassigns nearly all of the Seville area and 60 percent of the Perrysville area to Highcliff Elementary. The remaining 40 percent of Perrysville is split equally between McIntyre and Ross elementary schools. In addition to Perrysville and Seville students, approximately 30 other students will change school assignments. As part of the district’s long-range facilities plan that was approved in 2006, Perrysville and Seville elementary schools will close at the end of this school year. The former Northway and Perrysville facilities will continue to be used to temporarily accommodate Ross Elementary students – as the Ross facility undergoes construction. In order to provide the safest possible learning environment, all Ross students will be temporarily relocated for the 201011 school year. Ross students in kindergarten and grades 1, 2 and 3 will be located in the former Northway Elementary building. Students in grades 4, 5 and 6 will be located in the former Perrysville Elementary building. letters were mailed to all elementary families in April confirming each student’s school assignment. Additional information regarding classroom/teacher assignments will be distributed later this summer. “We recognize and value the need for young students and their families to become acquainted with their schools and classrooms prior to the first day of school. As such, tours and open houses will be scheduled for all four elementary schools prior to the start of the school year,” Dr. Joseph Goodnack, superintendent, said. “Each of our elementary schools is affected differently by redistricting and renovations; therefore, each principal will schedule events to meet those individual needs.” It is anticipated that tours/open houses will take place in mid to late August. Information will be shared as plans are finalized.
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PERRYSVIllE STUDENTS ADVANCE IN SHAKESPEARE COMPETITION team of four Perrysville Elementary students were finalists in the 2010 Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest, sponsored by the Pittsburgh Public Theater. Fifth graders Heather Walter, luke Belanger, Jared lubbert and Tyler Schmitt performed their scene from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the O’Reilly Theater. “This is an extreme honor and a prize not easily won.” Mrs. Doris Stupka, Perrysville librarian and gifted teacher, said. “Their performance at the competition was dazzling!” In total, 33 Perrysville students in grades 4-6 as well as 13 North Hills Senior High School students competed in the 16th annual event. The competition is open to students in grades 4-12. Students may enter the monologue contest, scene contest, or both. Students compete in the upper division (grades 8-12) or lower division (grades 4-7). Contestants present their pieces on The Public’s main stage in front of a panel of judges. Those who advance to the final round of the contest have the opportunity to perform before an audience at the Showcase of Finalists. For more information, visit http://www.ppt.org/content/studentshakespearemonologue.cfm.
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staff news
North Hills names assistant superintendent orth Hills School District has promoted from within to fill its assistant superintendent vacancy. Mr. Patrick Mannarino, high school principal, will join the district’s central staff on July 1, 2010. The school board approved his fiveyear contract during its legislative meeting on May 17, 2010. Mr. Mannarino has served as principal of North Hills Senior High School since June 2006. He joined the North Hills School District as an assistant principal in June 2002 and was promoted to associate principal in June 2005. In addition, he served as coordinator of the high school’s $26.5 million renovation project, which was completed in the fall of 2007. Throughout the last several years, North Hills Senior High School has expanded its Advanced Placement program and has implemented a robust online program to better meet the needs of 21st century learners. During this time, the number of students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship and the AP Scholars programs has increased dramatically. “Mr. Mannarino has been an exemplary educational leader who has made a significant impact on our high school program,” Dr. Joseph Goodnack, superintendent, said. “His leadership will be valued as we continually work to improve all programs throughout our district.” Mr. Mannarino was honored with the 2008 Online Course Designer Award by blendedschools.net for his development of an online course, Civics and American Government, which is available to students from throughout Pennsylvania via blendedschools.net. The high school course is rich with multimedia and does not require the use of a textbook, which allows students to truly experience learning anytime, anywhere. In total, he has developed six online social studies courses through blendedschools.net as well as two
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online professional development courses for teachers in Intermediate Unit 1, which serves schools in Fayette, Greene and Washington counties. Previously, Mr. Mannarino served as the dean of students and assistant athletic administrator for the Blackhawk School District in Beaver Falls. Prior to his administrative experience, he taught high school social studies for Blackhawk. Mr. Mannarino, who earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Slippery Rock University, is currently completing coursework for an educational doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. He received his Principal Certificate from Youngstown State University and his Superintendent’s letter of Eligibility from the University of Pittsburgh. The assistant superintendent position has remained vacant since January 2007 when Dr. Joseph Goodnack, then assistant superintendent, was promoted to the superintendent position. Mr. Mannarino resides in Beaver Falls with his wife, Tracey, and their three young children.
NH athletic director named 2010 Sports Ethics Fellow an Cardone, director of athletics and activities for the North Hills School District, has been named a 2010 Sports Ethics Fellow by the Institute for International Sport and the Positive Coaching Alliance at Stanford University. Mr. Cardone was one of only 18 individuals and two organizations to receive this honor, which was announced March 2, 2010, National Sportsmanship Day. According to the Institute for International Sport, Sports Ethics Fellows are those individuals who are recognized for demonstrating admirable leadership in the areas of fair play and sportsmanship. “Since 1993, we have been privileged to recognize distinguished sports educators who place a very high value on fair play,” Daniel E. Doyle Jr., founder and director of National Sportsmanship Day, said. “This year’s group of Fellows represents the very best of American sport and education.” Serving as the district’s athletic director since 1992, Mr. Cardone has taken a leadership
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Perrysville teachers and students receive honor Perrysville Elementary third grade class and its teachers were recently named recipients of the Scott E. Folmer Memorial Student, Teacher and Exemplary Practice or Partnering Award, which recognizes educators, administrators and school districts in Allegheny County, who give outstanding support to children who are receiving special education services. Kathy Duddy, learning support teacher, along with Angela Honchar, third grade teacher, and her classroom of 8 and 9-year-olds were selected for their compassion, acceptance and support toward a student with special needs. They were honored at a banquet on May 5, 2010, at Carlynton Junior/Senior High School. The Scott E. Folmer Memorial STEPP Awards program is sponsored by the local Task Force on the Right to Education. For more information, visit www.ltf3.org.
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role in the promotion of sportsmanship at the interscholastic level. He initiated the first WPIAl Sportsmanship Summit in November 2009 – attended by more than 600 student athletes and athletic administrators. He is also the founder of the Student Athlete leadership Academy (SAlA), which brings together more than 250 athletes from western Pennsylvania for training in leadership and sportsmanship on an annual basis. In 2009, Mr. Cardone was one of five nationwide to be named National Director for National Sportsmanship Day. In 2006, he was named one of the top Athletic Administrators in the nation by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. He has also written and presented extensively at the state and national level on the importance of developing character in sport. He previously served as a social studies teacher and head football coach for two western Pennsylvania high schools. In total, he has dedicated more than 30 years to high school athletics. North Hills Senior High School is a seven-time winner of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association’s statewide sportsmanship award and was named an All-American Sportsmanship school by the Institute for International Sport in 2006. Past Sports Ethics Fellows include nationally known individuals, as well as others who have engaged in developing sportsmanship and honorable competition. Past fellows include Billy Packer, Ken Dryden, Carl lewis, Grant Hill, Chris Spielman, Mia Hamm, lance Armstrong, Phil Jackson, Jeff Gordon, Dan Bylsma, Herman Edwards, Sonja Henning and Joe Paterno. Administered by the Institute for International Sport based at the University of Rhode Island, the annual National Sportsmanship Day program is widely considered the largest sportsmanship initiative in the world. Annually, the Positive Coaching Alliance partners with the Institute to select Sports Ethics Fellows. For more information about the Sports Ethics Fellow program, the Institute for International Sport and National Sportsmanship Day, please visit www.internationalsport.com/nsd. Visit www.positivecoach.org to learn more about the Positive Coaching Alliance at Stanford University.
Former band directors inducted into PMEA Hall of Fame wo former North Hills band directors are among eight inductees to the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association Hall of Fame Class of 2010. Fred Del Monte and Warren Mercer will be recognized for their significant achievements in music education posthumously. Combined, they dedicated more than 45 years to the North Hills School District music program. Fred Del Monte served as director of junior high bands and orchestra for the North Hills School District for 22 years. Prior to arriving at North Hills, he was the instrumental music supervisor in West Allegheny School District for 15 years. Mr. Del Monte holds the honor of being the first music teacher to be designated as Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, which he earned in 1979. listed in Who’s Who in Music, he also received the Citation of Excellence from the National Band Association and was selected by the School Musicians magazine as one of the Ten Most Outstanding School Musicians in the United States and Canada in “They are Making America Musical.” Mr. Del Monte generously gave his time to help PMEA realize its mission and goals. He was a founder of the PMEA District 1 Honors Band and served as a guest conductor at numerous county band festivals, district junior high orchestras, honors band festivals and elementary band fests. He served as PMEA Western Division president, region chairman and state conference sessions coordinator. PMEA bestowed upon Mr. Del Monte an Honorary life Membership. In addition, his memberships included Phi Beta Mu, National Band Association and National State Teachers of the Year. Mr. Del Monte passed away in 2002. According to the nomination submitted on his behalf, “Fred loved his students; he inspired them and encouraged them to always give their best in everything they did. He was a key factor in the growth and development of the North Hills band program.”
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Warren S. Mercer Jr. served as the North Hills band director from 1960-1992. In addition, he acted as director of bands and ensembles for Carnegie Mellon and Duquesne universities. The National Band Association awarded him the Citation of Excellence in 1970. In 1983, under his direction, North Hills was one of seven high schools to win the first Sudler Flag of Honor, an international award for outstanding high school concert bands. He was the founding conductor of the North Suburban Symphonic Band. A nationally acclaimed band adjudicator, Mr. Mercer was the first high school band conductor asked to conduct a PMEA AllState Band and guest conducted numerous honors bands. Under his leadership, his bands performed at PMEA, MENC Eastern and National Conferences as well as the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. He originated the commissioned series for high school concert band and his band was the only high school band selected to record for Educational Records Reference library. Mr. Mercer passed away in 2007. According to information submitted with his nomination, “Warren loved his students, working tirelessly for them and inspiring them to reach their full potential as musicians and citizens. His knowledge of music and his understanding of the teaching/learning process combined with his legendary ability to motivate young people allowed him to become one of the most successful music educators of his generation.” Established in 2009, the PMEA Hall of Fame recognizes music educators who have made a lasting impact on their students, schools and communities. This year’s inductees were honored during the 2010 PMEA Annual Conference, April 22-24, in Pittsburgh. For more information, visit www.pmea.net.
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Students Create Winning Public Service Announcement
team of North Hills Senior High School students submitted one of the 11 winning entries in the second annual PennDOT “Drive Safe PA” radio public service announcement contest, held in conjunction with National Youth Traffic Safety Month. The team is comprised of seniors Emily Donaldson and Regina Suchin and juniors Elaine Carey, John Gordon and Nick Marchese. The North Hills PSA was selected as the winning entry from District 11, which includes Allegheny, Beaver and lawrence counties. The 11 winning entries, one in each PennDOT engineering district, focused on unsafe driving behaviors such as distracted driving, not buckling up, and impaired and
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aggressive driving. Contest winners were notified in April and recently traveled to Harrisburg to have their PSAs professionally recorded. The winning entries can be heard on PennDOT’s highway safety website, www.DriveSafePA.org. “Through this contest, students are sending clear messages to all motorists about taking personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others,” said PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. “While these messages offer sound advice for motorists of all ages to follow, they help to underscore the extra risks that young, novice drivers face when they don’t practice safe driving behaviors.” Several of the winning PSAs focused on distracted driving and specifically on talking on a cell phone or texting while behind the wheel. Although there are many different driver distractions, such as eating, tuning the radio and interacting with passengers, cell phones distract the driver in three different ways: visually, taking their eyes off the road; manually, taking their hands off the wheel; and cognitively, taking mental focus away from the task of driving. To listen to the North Hills Senior High public service announcement, visit http://www.drivesafepa.org/resources/2010DriveSafePA-NorthHills.mp3.
NH senior named
Presidential Scholar Candidate North Hills senior has been named a 2010 U.S. Presidential Scholar candidate. Julieta Gomez-Frittelli is one of 64 students in Pennsylvania and 3,171 in the nation to be considered for this national honor. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. Each year, up to 141 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Application is by invitation only. Students are invited to apply based on their scores on the SAT or ACT exam. Students chosen as Presidential Scholars receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in June and the Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House, in commemoration of their achievements. Presidential Scholars Program http://www2.ed.gov/programs/psp/index.html
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Sr. High student places first in regional chemistry contest North Hills Senior High School junior placed first in a chemistry competition among students from a three-state region. Nicholas Didycz earned top honors in the second year category of the 2010 Secondary School Chemistry Contest sponsored by the Pittsburgh section of the American Chemical Society. The annual contest, which began in 1945, recognizes outstanding achievement by students and their teachers as well as encourages student interest in chemistry. To compete, students complete an exam that assesses their knowledge of descriptive chemistry and chemical principles. The contest is open to students from schools in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. There are three categories in the contest: Category S (small school) for students who are taking or have taken one year of high school chemistry; Category S (large school) for students who are taking or have taken one year of high school chemistry; and Category D for students who are taking or have taken two years of high school chemistry. General $2,000 and $12,000 scholarships will be awarded by the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh, and other scholarships are offered by Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh. Additional cash prizes will be awarded by the ACS. Nicholas and other contest winners were recognized at an awards dinner on Monday, May 24, 2010, at Duquesne University.
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come on in and grab a slice Congratulations to Dede Rittman,
Let us handle your Office Parties!
semifinalist in the 2011 Teacher of the Year competition for the State of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Rittman is an English Teacher for the North Allegheny School District and teaches at NAI. She has been with the school district for 36 years. In addition to her teaching duties, she is also the Boys Varsity Head Golf Coach and Director of the NAI Talent Show.
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North Hills Class of 1970 Reunion September 11, 2010 West View Banquet Hall
come on in and grab a scoop
16 Flavors
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For further information contact: Cindy May 412. 487.1991 cinders70@hotmail.com OR Aimee Monteverde aimeequilt@yahoo.com Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
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would be proud to honor and recommend Staff Sergeant Edward F. Greiner Jr. who lives and Ross and is now serving as a Recruiter in the North Hills Area on McKnight Road. Staff Sgt. Greiner joined the Army March 31, 2004. He has served with the 82nd Airborne Division, 307th Engineer BN in Afghanistan and 1-504 Parachute Infantry Regiment in Baghdad, Iraq. I would like to thank you and the members of your organization for honoring our brave and selfless service men and women.
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y husband, Phillip lenz, grew up in Ross. We are both from Pittsburgh and our parents still live here. Major Phil lenz is stationed at Fort Campbell, KY and assigned to the HHD, 716th Military Police Battalion.
M Janet lenz
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724.942.0940
The best of back then. Built in the here and now.
Introducing Park Place, a traditional neighborhood design in Cranberry Township. This unique community features inviting front porches, and tree lined streets with wider sidewalks leading to a clubhouse, a pool and recreation. It showcases a variety of modern homes inspired by traditional styles, framing a quaint village of shoppes and restaurants, all just a stroll away. The real beauty of Park Place is that behind the classic look and feel, there is nothing old about it at all. You will get a custom-built home with outstanding craftsmanship at an exceptional value, with all the amenities and conveniences that are essential in today’s high-tech world. It’s the comfort of then and the convenience of now, providing everything you need in the future to truly feel right at home.
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Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
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Should I Have My Veins Evaluated? Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIAlIST You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins.
Who should I talk to about my complaints?
hen people at my son’s school, at parties or even at sporting events find out that I specialize in venous disease I often find myself being flooded with a variety of questions. There is a recurring theme to these questions so I thought it might be helpful to answer a few.
I will often use the analogy “when your car is making a funny noise you would take it to your mechanic, not your hair dresser.” As with any medical condition you should have your complaints evaluated by a physician. I advise patients to see a physician who specializes in venous disease, known as a phlebologist. Phlebology is recognized by the American Medical Association and is the field of medicine that focuses on veins. A board certified phlebologist should determine if you have venous disease, determine severity if disease is present and develop a treatment plan. As with many medical conditions there is a spectrum of disease as well as treatment options. Therefore, it is important to seek the help of a specialist who is well rounded in their knowledge of the entire field of phlebology as opposed to just one treatment option.
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Do I have to have bulging veins like I see in pictures to get my legs evaluated? No, since most veins lie deep to the skin surface, vein disorders are not always visible to the naked eye. A physical examination teamed with a diagnostic ultrasound should be used to determine the condition of the veins. The ultrasound examination gives us a real time and detailed view of the patients’ varicose vein system. Patients are often surprised to see how extensive and complicated their varicose veins are.
What are some symptoms of venous disease? Not everyone has visible symptoms of venous disease; for some patients, their only indicator is the aching they have in their leg or legs. For other patients, in time, their varicose veins can become enlarged and in some cases quite prominent. They can be seen in some individuals as ropey or raised lumps in the thighs, legs, calves and ankles. Other symptoms of venous disease include pain, aching, fatigue, heaviness, cramping, throbbing, itching, burning and swelling. Symptoms of venous disease may worsen with standing or walking for prolonged periods. Many patients state that after shopping at the mall or Costco their legs are “killing them.” Severe venous disease can compromise the nutrition of the skin and lead to eczema, inflammation or even ulceration.
Who suffers from venous disease? I often hear that patients think that the pain, aching and swelling of their legs is just a part of “getting older” because they remember their mother or father having the same complaints. Although age is not a determining factor, heredity is the number one contributing factor in venous disease, followed by gender, with women being more likely to suffer from venous diseases than men.
What are the health implications of venous disease? Implications widely vary, based on the patient and the extent of disease. Varicose veins can cause a range of unsightly nuisances to medical problems including leg and foot ulcers, spontaneous bleeding, superficial thrombophlebitis (clots in the veins causing painful inflammation) and even deep vein thrombosis which is potentially life-threatening.
Does insurance cover the treatments? An evaluation of venous complaints is covered by insurance. If at the time of evaluation, Dr. Krysinski determines treatment to be medically necessary, then our office will begin the authorization process for you with your insurance provider. This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider. Terrance R. Krysinski, MD General Surgeon Board Certified Phlebologist Vein Institute of Pittsburgh 724.934.VEIN (8346)
724-934-VEIN (8346) 16000 Perry Highway, Suite 2, Warrendale • 6507 Robinson Center Dr., Pittsburgh 28 724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Ross Township
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Adopt a Pet: Precious his little cat’s story is a great example of how a little love goes a long, long way. Precious was initially found as a stray and rescued off the streets by a kind gentleman who gave her a wonderful loving home. For years she lived happily with her new family and feline roommate, until her owner became ill. With no one else to care for them, he sadly brought these dear cats to Animal Friends. Precious did not have an easy adjustment. She missed her owner miserably and no matter how much kindness the staff and volunteers showed her, this sad little cat would not let anyone near her. She was just not a happy cat. But we knew that there was wonderful cat hiding in that sad little face. And we were right! Precious went home with a foster family who just gave her a little love and within days we saw
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the sweet gentle personality we knew was hiding under the sadness. Today, this sweet little cat will come up to you and show her affection by rubbing against you and giving you long deep purrs. She is great with using both the scratching post and litterbox and loves to spend her days watching everything going on outside the window. She even gets along with the family dog! All it took was a little bit of love. Please contact Animal Friends to set up a meet and greet with Precious. Call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002.
Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
on the go...
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Surfing the ‘Net
W hat did computer dothaet lunchtime? Had a byte !
Check out these rules that keep you safe when online!
NEVER give out your name, address, phone or the school you attend to anyone online without your parent’s permission.
Don’t enter contests without asking Mom or Dad first.
If someone sends you something that makes you feel uncomfortable, let your parents and teachers know. NEVER respond to it yourself.
NEVER agree to meet someone you’ve met online. NEVER send a person your picture without your parent’s permission. Only your parents should know your internet passwords.
Top Tech Words You Should Know! 1. Download- To download a file is to get it from someone else's computer, over a network, and save it on your own computer, CD, or memory device. Example: Let’s download the photo of George Washington for the history project. 2. Pixel- A pixel is a tiny dot of light on the monitor. It is the smallest part of every image you see on the computer monitor. Example: How many pixels does that photo have in it? 3. Modem- A device that links a computer to the internet through a telephone line, or a DSL or cable connection. Example: Our modem needs to be replaced. Our computer is downloading this photo slowly! 4. Browser - A software program that lets you explore the internet to let you discover things like graphics, sound, movies, games, and more. Example: Open a browser and search for George Washington for your President of the United States history project. 30 724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Ross Township
Computers are Fun! Find each of these words in this puzzle.
What to Do About
Risky Teen Drivers? he teenage brain is designed for fun, not good judgment. It is scientific fact that teen brains are underdeveloped because neurons are not fully connected until age 25. That’s a pretty good excuse for behavior that makes teen intelligence questionable at times. Peer pressure, internet influence, lifestyle trends, gadgets, and raging hormones, all make teen behavior much riskier than the average adult’s. So when teenagers get behind the wheel of a car, you get “risky teenage drivers”– the main reason crashes are the leading cause of death for teens. We know that teens are the worst offenders in distracted driving and that they should have better driving skills. What are we doing about it? The Graduated Drivers license (GDl) limits teen driver privileges, until they are older and have more driving experience.
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Mostly, the reduction in crashes from the GDl results from fewer miles travelled in this age group due to hour restrictions, than from improving their driving. The GDl controls teen drivers only during restricted hours. The rest of the time young drivers are allowed to drive, they are still risky teen drivers. DUI laws severely penalize infractions after the deed is done. Unfortunately, teens know that their illegal behavior inside a car is difficult to enforce. Risky drivers will naturally consider the low odds of getting caught, but mostly the payoff of having fun. A ban on texting while driving sounds like a plan, until we realize that it is even harder to enforce than the seat belt laws which teens often disregard. Texting behind the wheel is concealed by holding the phone down, increasing the inattention to the road and the risk. As long as teen drivers have a feeling of invincibility and a willingness to risk illegal behavior such as texting and driving, they will continue to do so. logically, we need early intervention to modify specific teen risky
Summer 2010 | IN Ross Township |
driving behavior which causes most crashes, such as texting and other distractions. Driver inexperience as well, needs to be addressed by teaching safe driving and crash avoidance skills in a safe, yet real driving situation, not in a simulator that mimics video games that teens are so proficient at. New drivers should experience the effects of distractions and involuntary panic reaction on their ability to drive safely, themselves. They should experience how easily they lose control of the vehicle when distracted. They should learn to maneuver should they need to recover control in an emergency and foremost, learn about limitations and the importance of avoiding risks in the first place. A complete effort to reduce teen crashes must incorporate new driver education that takes risky behavior and improving driving skills into account. Teen driver experts at BeaveRun Driving Academy have taken the initiative in this approach, applying the New Era Driver Instruction Technique (NEDIT) based on behavior modification and safe driving skills in various teen driver programs.
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