Winter 2010
oss Township
Highcliff Elementary Gets a "Treehouse" Those “Rowdy Rooters” of NHSD North Hills School District Information
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Contents Ross Township | WINTER 2010 |
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WINTER
2010 Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter
If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.
6 FEATURE
COMMUNITY INTEREST
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26 Publisher’s Message
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© 2010 UPMC
Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery
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The Difference a Number Can Make When the Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel?
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Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready
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Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season
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Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down
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IN KIDS
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North Hills School District Quarterly Newsletter | 5
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UPMC Today
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What’s Inside
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13 |
Older Adults in Ross Township
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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation By Jamie Ward | 26 INDUSTRY INSIGHT
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Innovative Solutions to Common Gynecological Problems By Kristine R. Santerini, M.D. | 25
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You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Varicose and Spider Veins
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Q & A with a vein specialist By Theresa Schneider | 28 |
ON THE COVER
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Who is At Home Senior Service and What is Non-Medical In-Home Care? By David John Dietrich | 32
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The North Hills community celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated Highcliff Elementary School. Photo by Gary Yon Photography
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1
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elcome to our winter issue! At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for IN Community Magazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff. I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine what it is – you, our readers, and our advertisers. Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support of IN Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed. So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer!
Wayne Dollard Publisher
universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you.
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. PUB LIS H ER
Wayne Dollard AS S ISTA NT TO TH E PUB LIS H ER
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A NAGING ED ITOR
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com OFFIC E M A NAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com ED ITOR IA L AS S ISTA NT
Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com W R ITERS
Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GR A PH IC D ES IGN
Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold
Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco
Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV ERTIS ING S A LES
s the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of Ross Township. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things "community." As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don't forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Ross Township community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at IN Community Magazines, we hope your holiday will be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you're surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor
Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee 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. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
www.incommunitymagazines.com
– TA Baron 2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
WINTER 2010
PH OTOGR A PH ERS
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Every piece of the
oss Township
Spring Issue Deadline: February 3,2011 |
Ross Township
Ross Township Ross Township Municipal Center 1000 Ross Municipal Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.931.7055 www.ross.pa.us Business Hours: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
Municipal Departments 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 a.m.–3 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.
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
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Ross Township
ADMINISTRATION Dr. Joseph Goodnack Superintendent Patrick Mannarino Assistant Superintendent David Hall Director of Finance & Operations Dr. Marilyn Cain Director of Elementary Education Dr. Rita Neu Asst. to the Superintendent, Pupil Services Jeff Taylor Director of Curriculum & Assessment Valerie Mengine Director of Human Resources Tina Vojtko Communications Coordinator George Zappas Director of Food Services Dan Cardone Director of Athletics & Activities John Kreider 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
Bill McGahee Asst. Principal, North Hills Senior High Johanna Vanatta Asst. Principal, North Hills Senior High Beth Williams Principal, North Hills Junior High Julie Francyzk Asst. Principal, North Hills Junior High Christian Lesnett Asst. Principal, North Hills Junior High Elaine Obidowski Principal, Highcliff Elementary Amy Mathieu Principal, McIntyre Elementary David Lieberman Principal, Ross Elementary Marc Thornton Principal, West View Elementary
NORTH HILLS SCHOOL BOARD OF EDUCATION Edward M. Wielgus President
Ashley Mittereder, Class of 2011, Senior Student Representative
Thomas L. Kelly Vice President
Brandon Uddstrom, Class of 2012, Junior and Beattie Tech Student Representative
Robert L. Barto Arlene J. Bender Timothy F. Burnett Jeffrey A. Meyer Lou Nudi Kathy Reid Sharon A. Schrim Michael J. Witherel, Esq. Solicitor Lynne Phillips Board Secretary
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
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
North Hills School District
he North Hills community celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated Highcliff Elementary School on Friday, Sept. 3. Hundreds of families, teachers, senior citizens, neighbors and other community members toured the new facility. Principal Elaine Obidowski facilitated a brief program that recognized the efforts of the school board, administration, faculty and staff as well as the district’s construction partners. The program also included the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Highcliff students, and a performance by Highcliff elementary band students, directed by Mr. Michael Bishop. The school, which was originally built in 1956, underwent a $15.7 million renovation and expansion that began in August 2009. Enrollment at the school increased from 200 students in 2009-10 to approximately 520 students this fall. The building boasts a nature theme – complete with a “tree house” that overlooks the main entry and animal paw prints within the flooring. The décor uses many shades of green, tan, blue and other natural colors in order to provide an exciting learning environment for students, parents and teachers. Highcliff Elementary is the second of three elementary schools that were scheduled to be renovated in the North Hills School District. The newly remodeled and expanded McIntyre Elementary opened last fall and construction on Ross Elementary School began in August and will be completed prior to the start of the 2011-12 school year. West View Elementary School was renovated in 1998.
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North Hills School District
Record 75 students named AP Scholars he College Board recently announced that a record-number 75 North Hills Senior High School students earned the designation of AP Scholar ~ including one National AP Scholar. These students, who earned recognition for their exceptional achievement in the college-level Advanced Placement Program, represent an increase of 7 students or 10 percent over last year. “AP is widely accepted as the most rigorous high school program in the country,” John Kreider, North Hills Senior High principal, said. “Our students are to be commended for their high level of achievement as well as their determination and commitment to completing this rigorous academic coursework.” In May 2010, 246 North Hills students completed 507 AP exams – 66 percent of which earned scores of 3 or higher, qualifying for college credit. The 75 AP Scholars represent 30 percent of all North Hills students who participated in the AP exam program. Recent graduate Julieta Gomez-Fritelli was named an AP Scholar with Distinction as well as a National AP Scholar for earning an average grade of at least 4 on all AP exams taken, and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more exams. She is one of only six North Hills students to have earned the honor of National AP Scholar. Eighteen additional students were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. To qualify, students must earn an average grade of at least 3.5 on all advanced placement exams and a grade 3 or higher on five or more AP exams. The list of honorees includes the following 2010 graduates: Elena Capaldi, Steve Comer, Kevin Fairley, Antonia Finizio, Andrea Haley, Mary Marchetti, Nathan Pack, Molly Proud, Nicole Salamacha, Hannah Smith, Kathleen Urich, Spencer Whale and Emily Winkler; as well as seniors Nicholas Didycz, Ryan Dyer, Felipe Gomez-Frittelli, Stephen Kukunas and Michaela Varys. Twenty North Hills students earned the distinction of AP Scholar with Honor by earning an average grade of 3.25 or higher on all AP Exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more exams. North Hills AP Scholars with Honor include 2010 graduates Troy Beaudry, Emily Collins, Donald Cunningham, Kyle Dobson, Jordan Garth, Stephanie Gordon, Mollie Lewis,
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Kelsey Nurmi, Corey Palko, Devon Raiff, Joshua Seiler, Jaclyn Shearer and Paul Shields; as well as seniors Alex Balzer, Anthony Chmura, Kathleen DeWitt, John Gallaher, Torrance Gricks, Andre Wiff and Emma Wingerd. Thirty-six North Hills students earned the distinction of AP Scholar by earning grades of 3 or higher on three or more exams. AP Scholars include 2010 graduates Denise Adamiak, Benjamin Amrhein, Kevin Anderson, Younkwon Bae, Wendi Barnett, Jeffrey Bramkamp, Daniel Coast, Amy Cooknick, Robert Damico, Elizabeth DeWitt, Ryan Gibson, Jared Glatz, Alexandria Holdorf, Maxwell Kenny, Kelly Drakosky, Vanessa Logan, Margaret Preisendefer, Crystal Regan, Mary Schneider, Lauren Simmons, Alison Southworth, Liam Sporrer, Melissa Teaff, Cara Tovissi, Jenna Veverka, Kathleen Waronek, Aaron Watson and Sharon Yee; as well as seniors Tyler Cooper, Leah Cornelius, Alexander Kirillov, Ashley Mittereder, Christopher Robb, Regina Sencak, Zachary Tillman and Ian Wickles. North Hills has steadily increased the number of AP Scholars from 25 students in 2004-05 to 75 students in 2009-10. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school, and to receive college
credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. According to the College Board, AP students are more likely than their peers to complete college within four years and students who take AP exams say it makes them feel more confident and prepared for college.
“AP is widely accepted as the most rigorous high school program in the country. Our students are to be commended for their high level of achievement as well as their determination and commitment to completing this rigorous academic coursework.” – John Kreider North Hills Senior High principal
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
North Hills School District
ix North Hills Senior High School seniors were recently recognized as semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program – the school’s highest number of semifinalists in recent history. Semifinalists Branden Brown, Anthony Chmura, Nicholas Didycz, John Gallaher, Felipe Gomez-Frittelli and Jeremiah Spear scored in the top one percent of students completing the PSAT/NMSQT.® In addition, Wyatt Frye earned a Letter of Commendation for scoring in the top three percent in the country. “We are extremely proud of these seven high school students and their outstanding academic performance,” Principal John Kreider said. “Their accomplishment places them among our nation’s top high school seniors.” High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the PSAT – the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test – during their junior year. Of the 1.5 million entrants, 50,000 students with the highest scores qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program. The top one third (approximately 16,000 students) are notified that they have qualified as Semifinalists. The remaining twothirds (approximately 34,000 students) receive Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.
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publications and website earn statewide honors orth Hills School District received an Award of Excellence and two Honorable Mentions in the 41st Annual Educational Publications Contest, sponsored by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association. The Online Academy @ North Hills brochure received an Award of Excellence, PSBA’s highest honor. The district’s website and 2009-10 Annual Report earned Honorable Mentions. The website category was added to the publications contest in 2007. The North Hills has been recognized all four years. The purpose of the annual publications contest is to recognize outstanding communication efforts by Pennsylvania’s school districts and other educational agencies as well as to encourage the use of different methods to communicate more effectively with various publics. Independent judges determined the winners from among 185 entries, based on a minimum rating system for each category. Entries were judged on appearance, writing and style, editing, layout and design, use of artwork and photography, printing and value to the audience. View the complete list of winners online: http://www.psba.org/workshops/schoolleadership-conference/2010/publications-conte st.asp. Award of Excellence publications were showcased during the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators / PSBA School Leadership Conference, which was held in October.
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Three educators earn statewide recognition hree North Hills staff members were recently honored by blendedschools.net for their contributions to online learning. Jeff Taylor, director of curriculum and assessment, earned the Outstanding Contribution Award while science teachers Jennifer DiPasquale and Jackie Karenbauer received the Program Innovation Award. All three educators were recognized during blendedschools.net annual conference Oct. 6 in State College. “North Hills School District is extremely fortunate to have faculty and administrators who are leaders in technology integration and online learning,” Dr. Joseph Goodnack, superintendent, said. “These individuals have clearly demonstrated their commitment to providing innovative, engaging, 21st century
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learning opportunities for students.” According to the blendedschools.net website, the Outstanding Contribution Award recognizes educators for their demonstrated vision, initiative, and passion for online learning. Recipients have made a difference in the development, promotion, or advancement of modern online learning, particularly online learning with blendedschools.net. Mr. Taylor was nominated for this award by Bryan O’Black, director of technology and assessment for the Shaler Area School District. In particular, he noted Mr. Taylor’s work in the development and growth of the Online Academy @ North Hills as well as his involvement with the Pennsylvania Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.
“Jeff’s contributions to online learning, curriculum and blended learning go well beyond the walls of North Hills School District,” Mr. Oblack wrote in his nomination. “Jeff has truly been a pioneer in the area of educational technology and is truly deserving of the Outstanding Contribution Award.” The Program Innovation Award recognizes the creative use of online learning to enhance learning opportunities within the perimeters of the existing curriculum. Recognized programs make use of video and/or online technology and are exemplary models that can be reproduced for use by others. Mrs. DiPasquale and Mrs. Karenbauer were nominated for the Program Innovation Award by John Kreider, North Hills Senior High School principal, for their development of a textbook-free biology class. Their innovative instructional model is not an online class nor does it utilize an online textbook. Students can access digital content at school and at home. Some of the digital content includes teachercreated (and narrated) PowerPoint and Keynotes, web links and activities as well as links to reviews and videos. Student created projects are also available for peers to view. “Their shift from books allows their curriculum to be presented with a focus on the higher levels of Bloom’s Digital Taxonomy with students moving from remembering toward creating as they create curriculum based projects.” Mr. Kreider said.
Jr. High band selected to perform atnational convention he North Hills Junior High Concert Band has been selected to perform as a model junior high band at the 2011 MENC Eastern Division Conference. The band, directed by music teacher Len Lavelle, will perform on April 2, 2011, in Baltimore for an audience of music educators and industry leaders from throughout the east coast. “Model groups are selected to represent what ensembles should be at each level: elementary, junior high, senior high, college and professional,” Mr. Lavelle said. “It is such an honor to perform for this group of talented music professionals.” A tape of the band’s last concert was submitted to the MENC selection committee for consideration. Based on that performance, the North Hills Junior High Concert Band was selected to perform. The last time a North Hills group was selected to play at this conference was in 1997 – when Mr. Lavelle was a trombonist in the high school’s Symphony Band, directed by Mr. David Matthews. This is the first time that the North Hills Junior High has been selected to perform at a MENC convention.
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“This is an exciting opportunity for our junior high students as well as the district’s instrumental program,” Dr. Joseph Goodnack, superintendent said. “The North Hills band – at every level – continues to bring pride, tradition and excellence to our district.” MENC, the national association for music education, hosts divisional conventions every two years. The All-Eastern Division represents 12 states in the northeast. Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
North Hills School District
Laura Jean McLaughlin working with West View Elem. students
West View art teacher Sara Strzempek working with West View Elem. students
est View Elementary School is hosting an artist in residence from now through January. Laura Jean McLaughlin, a ceramic artist, is collaborating with fifth grade students and art teacher Sara Strzempek to create a mosaic that will be displayed near the school’s rear entrance, adjacent to the cafeteria. A mosaic is a work of art made of cut fragments such as glass, tile, or stone that are assembled together with small gaps in between. Mosaic is a traditional art form that dates back to ancient Greece. The imagery for the planned mosaic will be more contemporary as the West View artists will reflect on the local history of the West View Amusement Park as well as themes present in their own school. Ms. McLaughlin is a celebrated artist who sells her work to more than 80 galleries, collectors and designers throughout the United States and abroad. She studied at the Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts in Maine, Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina, West Virginia University College of Creative Arts and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Her teaching and workshop experiences include; Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild in Pittsburgh, Clarion University, Beloit University, Southern Illinois University as well as Western Kentucky University. She is recipient of the Maggie Milano Memorial Award from the
Carnegie Museum and three prestigious residencies from Kohler Company in Wisconsin. In addition, Ms. McLaughlin’s ceramic work has been featured in Ceramics Monthly, Clay Times, American Style, American Craft magazine and two books; 500 Teapots and 500 Bowls. Her work is in the collection of PNC Park, Kohler Art Center, Kohler Company and HBO in New York. Her work can be viewed at http://www.laurajeanmclaughlin.com/ This is the fourth consecutive year that West View Elementary has hosted an artist in residence. Students have previously created a mural in the cafeteria, a quilt that is displayed in the library, and a rangoli sand painting that hangs in the foyer. West View’s artist in residence program is made possible through the generous support of the West View PTA, the North Hills Foundation, and the Arts in Education Partnership of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the citizens of Pennsylvania through the annual legislative appropriation process. The AIE Partnership is administered regionally by Pittsburgh Filmmakers/ Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, the art center is where artists and the community can create, see, support, and learn about the arts. The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Kindergarten registration packets available arents in the North Hills School District may obtain kindergarten registration packets for the 2011-2012 academic year at any of the district’s elementary schools or in the lobby of the district’s administration center, 135 Sixth Avenue in Ross Township. Packets can also be downloaded from the district’s website at www.nhsd.net. The packets provide necessary forms as well as information regarding required documents – such as proofs of residency and health immunizations – for kindergarten entrance. Completed registration packets will be accepted at the district’s registration event from 8 a.m. – 7
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p.m. on Friday, Feb. 18, 2011, at Highcliff Elementary School. The North Hills School District offers a fullday kindergarten program at all four elementary schools – Highcliff, McIntyre, Ross and West View Elementary schools. The school day is from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Students registering for kindergarten must be five years of age before Sept. 1, 2011, to be enrolled for the 2011-2012 school year. For more information regarding kindergarten registration, contact Dr. Marilyn J. Cain, director of elementary education, at 412-318-1006 or email cainm@nhsd.net.
North Hills School District
Art teacher receives state-wide honor North Hills Junior High teacher has been named the 2010 Outstanding Middle School Art Teacher by the Pennsylvania Art Education Association. Art teacher Matt Simon was recognized during the association’s annual conference in October. “Mr. Simon’s artistic ability, creativity, personality, past experiences, eagerness to grow professionally, and drive to achieve continued success as an educator are attributes commensurate with the expectations for the Outstanding Middle School Art Educator recognition,” Mr. John Kreider, North Hills Senior High principal and former junior high principal, said. Mr. Simon holds a degree in fine arts from Indiana University of Pennsylvania as well as certification in art education from Carlow University. A resident and graduate of the North Hills School District, Mr. Simon previously worked as a graphic designer. In addition to teaching, Mr. Simon has assisted with curriculum development to provide new opportunities for students, serves as the Fine Arts Department representative on the District Grading Committee, and collaborates with arts colleagues for communitywide events that feature the arts – including the annual Arts Alive and Empty Bowls events. “Mr. Simon is a highly qualified art teacher who has dedicated numerous hours toward developing, designing, implementing and refining worthy activities for students,” Mr. Kreider said. Earlier this year artwork designed by Mr. Simon was selected as the PAEA 2010 conference logo. The logo is featured on all conference materials as well as PAEA’s website, www.paea.org.
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Girls' Cross Country wins AAA WPIAL Championship he North Hills girls' cross country team finished as the AAA WPIAL Cross Country Champion with its first place finish in the WPIAL Championship meet at Cooper's Lake. The girls had three WPIAL medal winners: junior Margo Malone was WPIAL AAA Champion; sophomore Shannon Malone placed 4th; and freshman Mary Malone took 8th place. In addition, the girls came home with the AAA Section 3 Champions' trophy for their 8-0 record in section competition.
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Three students honored for outstanding academic achievement hree North Hills Junior High students were recently honored for their High Honors level achievement on the SAT or ACT exams during the previous school year. Ninth grader Anthony Sciulli and eighth graders Andrew Didycz and Andrew Nolish were recognized on Oct. 24, 2010, at the 2010 Johns Hopkins Global Talent Search Awards Ceremony at Duquesne University. The students were invited to take the SAT and/or ACT exams by the Center for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University. To achieve High Honors, seventh grade students must score at least a 550 in math or critical reading on the SAT or at least a 21 in math or a 22 in reading on the ACT. Eighth graders must score at least a 600 in math or critical reading on the SAT or a 24 or higher on the ACT math or reading. Educators, parents and others can nominate students who exhibit outstanding academic talent to participate in the annual CTY Talent Search. The nominations are based on any of the following criteria: • Achievement at the 95th percentile or higher on one or more areas of a nationally normed standardized test
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• Achievement at advanced levels on state tests, designated as scoring in categories such as advanced proficiency, distinguished, honors, or gifted • Demonstration of superior academic performance CTY, a world leader in gifted education, conducts national and international talent searches to identify, assess, and recognize outstanding academic talent. For over 30 years, CTY has helped talent soar among the world's brightest young people. Through the Talent Search, highperforming students take a test designed for older students. This above-grade-level testing can reveal more about the academic talents of students who are topping out on grade-level tests. Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
North Hills School District
f you've ever been to a home football game at North Hills' Materolli Stadium, chances are you know who the Rowdie Rooters are. The group has been cheering on the Indians from a clearing adjacent to the field for the past 30 years, and they aren't called the Rowdie Rooters for nothing. These are not your ordinary high school football fans. And when the Indians recently took on their rivals, North Allegheny, it wasn’t just any game. It was the Indians’ last home game of the season, and the Rooters were in full force. The spot where the Rooters cheer is marked with a large wooden sign, complete with lights and a siren. If you're anywhere around the area when the Indians play, you'll hear the Rowdie Rooters' siren. They run it anytime the visiting team has the ball or when the Indians have done something good. The Rooters previously used the old West View Fire Department horn. When the new stadium was built, the tree where the siren was mounted was accidentally cut. Bob Frank graduated from North Hills High School in '78. He played football during his high school years and is still coming out to watch the games. “My daughter goes to North Allegheny and is sitting in the stands for N.A.,” says Frank.
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“We made a $5 bet this morning on who would win the game.” One of Tim Salinski's most memorable moments over the years was when the last coach for Seneca Valley tried to climb the fence to get to him. Another Rooter says the time he remembers most was when the North Hills coach was sick and out for the game. After the game, the North Hills players came over and saluted them. If you think the job of a dedicated fan is over when the team plays away, you'd be wrong. The Rooters are always there to welcome and encourage the team when they return from away games, whether they have won or lost. North Hills fans are in a league all of their own, but that doesn't go to say fans at other schools haven't tried to copy them. It's all about tradition, and that's what has kept the Rooters alive for the past three decades. “I've been here for years,” says Randy Wagner, one of the original rooters. “The faces change every year, but everyone's welcome – old and young alike.” At the end of the night, the Indians prevailed over their bitter rivals. So it’s safe to say that Bob Frank is now $5 richer.
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W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.
What’s Inside
© 2010 UPMC
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Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery
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The Difference a Number Can Make When the Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel?
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Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready
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Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season
Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery New nerve-blocking techniques bring relief and boost recovery for UPMC Passavant surgery patients Whether you’re having surgery to replace a hip or to remove a tumor from your abdomen, new nerve-blocking techniques recently introduced at UPMC Passavant can help ease your postoperative pain, boost recovery, and even shorten your hospital stay. Jacques E. Chelly, MD, PhD, professor and director of the Acute Interventional Perioperative Pain Service at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, says the peripheral nerve block administered adjacent to the spine is so effective, most postoperative pain is no longer “a must.”
Impressive benefits “The vast majority of patients feel they benefit greatly from nerve blocks,” Dr. Chelly says. “Not only are they much more comfortable after surgery, many of them can leave the hospital earlier.” Other important benefits of nerve blocks may include: • less need for morphine and other narcotic pain relievers • reduced side effects from narcotics (including nausea, vomiting, itching, urine retention, constipation, and confusion — particularly in the elderly) • faster recovery and return of movement • quicker start of therapy But perhaps most importantly, easing the fear of pain from surgery encourages more people to go ahead with needed surgery. “Many people delay having hip or knee replacement surgery after hearing stories from friends or relatives who experienced postsurgical pain. That does not need to be the case any longer,” Dr. Chelly says.
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How nerve blocks work Under the direction of Charles B. Luke, MD, clinical assistant professor of anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Physicians’ Department of Anesthesiology and staff anesthesiologist at UPMC Passavant, specially trained anesthesiologists perform nerve blocks to relieve pain during and after surgery. By numbing the nerve that carries pain messages to and from the brain, the nerve block provides targeted pain relief to the specific surgery area — an arm, leg, chest, or abdomen. According to Dr. Luke, the presurgery procedure begins once the patient is examined, hooked up to monitors, and given oxygen. The anesthesiologist then administers a mild sedative through an IV to help the patient relax. Using an ultrasound machine — sometimes along with a nerve stimulator — the doctor locates the nerve involved with the surgery site and, in many cases, guides a threadlike catheter into the area surrounding the nerve. A numbing agent similar to Novocain is injected, bathing the nerve in medication so the receptors are unable to receive any pain messages. Nerve blocks can be used for outpatient procedures or more-involved inpatient surgeries, says Dr. Luke. If you need only a few hours of pain relief, your anesthesiologist may use a single injection of local anesthetic. For longer pain relief, a catheter will deliver a continuous infusion of a numbing agent through a portable pump for a few days, allowing you to begin therapy while receiving medicine. Some patients go home with a disposable pump to control pain up to 60 hours after discharge.
Organization and teamwork key to pain control Dr. Chelly says controlling postoperative pain begins before surgery starts and involves an organized team approach that is unique to UPMC and its Acute Pain Service. To ensure continuity of care, follow-up, and pain management, the acute pain team — a specialized anesthesiologist, a dedicated acute pain nurse, and an acute pain physician in training — works closely with the surgeon, floor nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, and, most importantly, the patient. “It requires significant time and a great deal of planning, organization, and cooperation to provide this service,” says Dr. Chelly. “That’s what the team at UPMC Passavant does — to the great benefit of our patients.” For an extended version of this article, please visit www.UPMC.com/Today.
The Difference a Number Can Make See how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call! Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:
120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke. When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.
It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.
99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.
200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream. To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.
For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association
When Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel? Every winter in western Pennsylvania, walkways and driveways disappear when snowflakes begin to fall. Before you tackle the white stuff, consider your heart health, advises Joseph A. Gerard, MD, a cardiologist at the UPMC Cardiovascular Institute at UPMC Passavant. “The risk of having a heart attack when shoveling snow is five to six times greater for someone with heart disease,” says Dr. Gerard. Cold air makes it harder to breathe when working outside, adding extra strain on the cardiovascular system. That’s because blood vessels constrict to conserve heat, increasing blood pressure as the heart works harder to squeeze blood through the narrow vessels. At the same time, arteries around the heart constrict, inhibiting blood flow and the supply of oxygen to the heart.
Snow shoveling also can unmask a sick heart. “When clearing a small driveway, you’re lifting almost 2,000 pounds of snow, and each shovelful weighs between 15 and 20 pounds,” explains Dr. Gerard. Most people tend to hold their breath when lifting that much weight, causing an even bigger jump in heart rate and blood pressure. Heart disease is just one factor that can put you at risk when shoveling snow. Think twice about shoveling if you: • lead a sedentary lifestyle • are overweight • have a history of heart disease • have high blood pressure or high cholesterol • smoke • are diabetic (or borderline diabetic) • have unhealthy eating habits
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand? You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.
Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles. • Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product. • Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available. • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.
Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently. • Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors. • Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping. • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.
Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. • Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group. • Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend. • With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.
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Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring. “Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression. In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains. Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall. If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy. While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.
Did You Know? • People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition. • More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.
Innovation at UPMC
New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith. Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine. But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology. Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.
Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment
Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.” The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.
Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.
While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner. “We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.” Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery. “We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.” For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).
1-800-533-UPMC
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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm. Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses. “All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.
Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti. The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed. “The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor. We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.
After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.
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Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.
If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists. If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.
Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone: 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome. Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.
Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging
Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season For most Americans, the holiday season is a feasting season, a time to savor the tradition of sharing wonderful meals and sweet treats with family and friends. Making healthy food choices at this time of the year is challenging. According to the National Institutes of Health, holiday eating can result in a weight gain of one to two pounds. Over the course of a lifetime, those extra pounds can really add up. The holidays don’t have to be a time to gain weight. With a healthy balance of food, activity, and fun, you can enjoy the season without regret. • Be realistic. Don’t plan to lose weight during the holidays. Focus on maintaining your current weight. • Get moving. Exercise helps to relieve holiday stress and can help partially offset increased holiday eating. • Plan ahead. Every holiday table features a wide variety of food so choose healthy foods first. Offer to make a healthy dish to share with family and friends.
What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by the Passavant Hospital Foundation: Classes Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Busy People Tuesday, Nov. 16, 6:30 p.m. Community College of Allegheny County North Campus Speaker: Registered dietitian Learn some important tips to help get you pointed in the right direction for eating as healthy as possible.
Healthy Living With Diabetes Wednesday, Nov. 17, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Patrick McCarthy, RN An overview of diabetes, plus tips on how to handle living with diabetes, including exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes that can reduce or eliminate the risk of diabetes.
• Eat before you feast. Avoid arriving at a party famished so you aren’t tempted to overeat. Eat a little something beforehand and drink one or two glasses of water to feel fuller. • Avoid temptation. Position yourself far away from the buffet table, and focus on spending time with family and friends instead of the food. • Change it up. Use ingredient substitutions to make your favorite recipes healthier. For example, ditch the fat in dips and dressings by using fat-free or low-fat yogurt instead. • Stuff the turkey, not yourself. Sit down, relax, and enjoy smaller portions of your favorite holiday treats. Eat just until you are satisfied. If you do overindulge, get back on track the next day with lighter meals. Remember: It takes 500 calories a day (3,500 a week) above your normal consumption to gain a pound. Just something to think about when you’re tempted to overindulge. Sources: American Diabetes Association, National Institutes of Health
Welcoming New Physicians Please visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians.
UPMC Passavant is pleased to welcome the following new physicians:
Jonas Cooper, MD Cardiovascular Services Division of Cardiology Milly P. Khan, MD Family Practice Arlan H. Mintz, MD Head and Neck Surgery Neurological Surgery
For more information about classes at UPMC Passavant and affiliated outpatient centers, call UPMC Physician Referral at 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Michael A. Pezzone, MD Medicine Gastroenterology
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237
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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Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Passavant physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments. Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.
Nicolas Robert Muyres He is serving the United States Navy in St. Mary's, Georgia. He is a Missile Technician and serves our submarine force.
Lt. Scott Purcell He is currently a Hanger Deck Officer in the Air Department on the USS Essex, stationed in Sasebo, Japan. Scott is a 1998 graduate of North Hills High School and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2002.
Do you know someone who is serving in the armed forces from Ross Township? We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them in IN Ross Township 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! Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
Volunteer Tax Preparers Needed Volunteer Tax Preparers are needed to provide free income tax assistance for hardworking individuals and families in Allegheny County. Your volunteer experience is a short-term commitment (3+ hours per week from January-April), convenient (our six free tax sites are located across Allegheny County and close to where you live and work), and easy to schedule (daytime, evening, and weekend hours are available). If you have experience preparing your own tax returns, we need you! Learn more about the Free Tax Campaign at www.pghfreetaxes.org.
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Ross Township
DON’T LET
Winter Slow You Down –
Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.
W
interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather. But there are some things that are just good sense.
• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start-up times until your engine is properly lubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months. • Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves. • If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress. Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. You can't eliminate bad driving, however, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
The Art of
Food & Wine
n support of the HEARTH organization, Parkvale Banks presented the 9th Annual "Art of Wine & Food" at The Children's Museum. Attendees enjoyed endless samples of delicious foods and wines, all provided by dozens of local establishments. There were fabulous items available for bid in a silent auction, and guests were invited to enjoy various exhibits throughout the museum. One could even get a complimentary massage or an airbrush tattoo! Brandeis Seymore, Sandra Seymore More than 500 people attended. HEARTH (Homelessness Ends with Advocacy, Resources, Training and Housing) is a non-profit organization that provides housing to homeless women and their children in the greater Pittsburgh area. HEARTH programs teach women how to gain independence and become economically selfsufficient. For more information on this organization, visit www.hearth-bp.org.
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ova, Dilya Zarip
Jimmy Wan
Vicky Gill
Lin Mikelas, Ray Herron, Judy Eakin
Kathy Seibert, Kelley
Best, Laura Melni ck
Amanda Palg uta, Jason Fi gura
Brian & Dani Kazienko, Katy Stewart
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Ross Township
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 25
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Older Adults inRoss Township
mericans filing federal returns can expect year-end tax planning to be a bit more complicated this time around because we don't know what the tax rates will be for 2011 just yet. The current rates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001, are due to expire on Dec 31 of this year. So when the new rates get passed, taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared. “For this year," says Marzina, "I think its very important that people be paying attention to what happens in the political spectrum in terms of tax rates for the new year and to make sure you have your advisers lined up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” Each year, an individual is allowed to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill out a gift tax return, which goes against the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Right now this is not determined. 26 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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by Jamie Ward So you could give gifts of up to Marzina says that the question many $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay a people are asking is this: If you have assets tax on it. According to the IRS, You can't that have significant capital gains built in, deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left to a charitable organization. Federal estate taxes may have been repealed for 2010, but they are set to return on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% on estates valued at more than $1 million. In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all assets got a “step-up” in basis when someone died. This meant that no tax would have to be paid on appreciated assets like stock and real estate. But under new laws all assets inherited may be subject to the capital should you accelerate taxes and sell those gains tax. assets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate, If the current administration's proposal instead of waiting for 2011 and having the to allow rates to expire and return to 2009's rate jump to 20%? The problem here is that taxpayers rate, the “step-up” in basis will return. won’t have a lot of time to make these Another proposal is to have most of the decisions. According to Marzina, if the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and taxes on dividends new tax laws are in place by Dec 1, and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. there will only be a 30-day window to The Republican proposal is to extend make any decisions this year. So the best current tax rates for a period of 2 years and thing to do is make those decisions as quickly as possible. cap dividends and capital gains at 15%.
Ross Township
by Jamie Ward
ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away
Senior Agencies
the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the
jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's the number one cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it. • If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.
Center at the "Y" Hiland Ross Senior Center 8500 Thompson 412.367.2221 Benedictine Center Perrysville Ave. 412.931.6051
Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify. Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card.
obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you. ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, sharedride 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. Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call the SeniorLine at 412.350.5460 Are you a non profit Senior Center serving the needs of our communities Older Adults?
And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, ask a family member or neighbor to help you.
Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participants must
We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 27
You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins. Should I Have My Veins Evaluated? Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST: While finishing charts at the end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staff answer questions for a patient on the phone. The questions asked were very important as were the answers that were given. Here are some examples:
What is Phlebology? Phlebology is the branch of medicine that deals with veins and the disease of veins. Two organizations dedicated to the advancement of this field are The American College of Phlebology and the American Venous Forum.
Why should I see a board- certified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veins When it comes to any aspect of your health care, it is important to be proactive in the choice and research of who will become medically responsible for your evaluation and treatment. Though venous disease is not always a visible ailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to more serious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certified phlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision. Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician who has taken the extra step of becoming specialized in the treatment of venous disease. Not only is the physician often a member of organizations such as the American College of Phlebology (ACP) and the American Venous Forum (AVF) but they have met additional requirements set by the certifying board. After meeting these requirements, he or she must then pass a certifying exam allowing the physician to identify him or herself as board-certified.
Is membership the same as board certification? This question is particularly important as it defines the specialty of a phlebologist. While a physician may be a member of many different organizations, these organizations only require an interest in the field for joining. Thus membership is unlike board certification where qualification is determined through training and testing. Here’s how the ACP defines its board certification: “The establishment of a Board Certification Exam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology and those providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills and experience to provide quality care to phlebology patients.”
I had a free screening at a health fair and was told that I don't have venous disease, but I still have aching, pain and discoloration at the ankles. What should I do? While free screenings can be informative, remember that this is just a brief glance into a patient's venous system. A complete venous exam and venous mapping by a board-certified phlebologist is best to determine if a patient has venous disease. Since a proper venous ultrasound is such an integral part of this evaluation, the American College of Phlebology has set requirements for it that include the following: • A venous ultrasound should be ordered by a physician. • A lower extremity ultrasound should study the entire leg, from ankle to groin. Failure to identify and treat all sources of reflux may result in outright treatment failure. • Evaluation of the venous system should be performed with the patient in the upright position. Sitting or lying down are inappropriate for the detection of reflux or the measurement of vein diameters. • A venous ultrasound should be performed by a trained physician or a registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT) and then interpreted by a physician.
If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office? Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘ free’ because patients are often not meeting with a physician, a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner, so this visit cannot be billed to insurance. However, most insurances allow for a second opinion. If you have any questions about the second opinion being covered, contact member services on the back of your insurance card. 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
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Ross Township
WINTER
2010
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on the go...
Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
Adopt a Pet Red
Winter Weather Safety Tips ❅ Have a snack before going outside. It will give you energy and keep your body warmer. ❅ Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face. The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. ❅ Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pants and jackets will keep you dry and warm! ❅ Never go sled riding alone. Always have a parent supervise. ❅ When you’re playing outside, go inside every once in a while to warm up. ❅ If you start to shiver or feel numb, go inside right away and tell an adult. 30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Ross Township
Sophie
It ’s the Holidays! Find each of these words in this puzzle.
ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day. And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach. “I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains, “but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.” Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company. “Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh. Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives and share advice. “It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.” Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that gives her meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of her experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.” Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking for volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help with grocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling and yard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could use some assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol, families and groups are also welcome. To learn more or become a volunteer, visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071. “It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t say enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant for storytelling, though, he probably could. Ross Township | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
t Home Senior Services is a Non-Medical In-Home Care Company. At Home is owned by David & Mary Jo Dietrich of Franklin Park, David has a PhD in business, and brings with him 20 years of experience working in privately held consulting firms specializing in family businesses. Mary Jo has a Bachelors degree in Nursing with over 15 years of hands on nursing experience working in hospital setting. Mary Jo runs the daily operations and understands the struggles families face when they are in need of care for their loved one. Today people are very busy with their work, families, and lives so looking after and taking care of a loved one can be complicated and sometimes overwhelming. It maybe that a family member has been showing signs of confusion during the day, recovering from surgery, needs reminders with medication, or just to have a friendly caregiver around to make sure activities of daily living go a little smoother. We opened our office in 2007 to help folks when they are faced with these issues. At Home has a comprehensive range of non-medical in-home care services that have helped hundreds of people recover and prosper in the comfort of their own homes.
A
How does your service work? No matter what your age, there are times when we all need a little help with the activities of daily living. Surgery, injury, illness and challenges created by disabilities can make it tough to take care of yourself or your loved ones, and that’s where we can help, for as short or long of time as you need. At Home has a minimum requirement of 3 hours per day and can accommodate around the clock care as well, we have a nurse come in to help assess the client and family needs and then design a care plan with options. Our ultimate goal is to help promote independence in the comfort of home with the assistance of a home health aide or caregiver.
What qualifications do caregivers need to work for At Home? We hire and staff Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA’s), Home Health Aides, and Companions. Caregivers with years of experience working in the field and that have a passion for helping seniors. Our comprehensive hiring process which includes a physical drug test, criminal background investigation, and a nursing competency exam helps us select quality caregivers. All caregivers are also insured and bonded.
What should I expect a Caregiver to do? We help with chores around the house, bathing & grooming, safety and supervision, medication reminders, light housekeeping, companionship, meal preparations, exercise, transportation to doctor visits, and social events. The goal is to help keep seniors active mentally and physically.
Do you have training? Our caregivers are highly trained with knowledge of the aging process. Education to all staff is delivered by a Register Nurse and they are trained by the Alzheimer’s Association, along with quarterly in-service meetings.
How do you pay for services? We work with Long Term care insurance companies, Veterans assistance program, State funded programs, and private pay. We promote “aging in place” in the comfort of home. No matter where clients call home we can be there. Give us a call today, our sofa visits are free, and the advice could be priceless......
This Industry Insight was written by David John Dietrich 412.604.0410 www.AtHomeSeniorServices.com
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Ross Township
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
oss Township
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