FALL 2011
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
ommunity C ay D
in North Fayette Township
Thank you, Pittsburgh. At UPMC Health Plan, we don’t set out to win awards. We simply focus on doing what’s right for our members. Like providing them with access to world-renowned UPMC doctors and hospitals as well as outstanding community hospitals and physicians. Giving them the tools and programs they need to live a healthy lifestyle. And offering them a personal Health Care Concierge and online chat capabilities to answer all of their questions. So when J.D. Power and Associates ranked us Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania, we don’t see it as adding another award to the trophy case. We see it as doing our jobs.To learn more visit upmchealthplan.com.
“Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania” UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Member Health Insurance Plan StudySM . Study based on 33,039 total member responses, measuring 11 plans in the Pennsylvania-Delaware Region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2010-January 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.
FALL 2011 Welcome to the Fall issue of West Allegheny Magazine. As the summer winds down, and the kids get ready to go back to school, I sincerely hope that you and your family had some time to get away from it all and relax. It seems that these days, parents driving the family taxi, and kids with their sports/lessons/parties rarely get a chance to enjoy the slow pace of an ever more elusive “lazy summer.” Ask yourself – when was the last time everyone ate together around a family table? When did everyone gather to play a board game? Does anyone remember board games? If your answer was “That one night that the power went out,” then you might be trapped in the 21st Century jail of hyper-life. (I made that term up, but I can do that – I’m the publisher.) I’m not an old guy, unless you ask my kids, but I think that life should be simpler. Moms, dads, brothers, sisters, should all try to spend some time with each other as a family more than that one night when the power goes out. Family time is an important part of being a community. And every community should value quality time with their families – it’s how we teach our children values, etiquette, and more importantly, how to participate in a family structure so they can pass on to their kids what you worked so hard to build. Recently, I saw a commercial where a father shut off the main power to the house so that the family could enjoy dinner together and blamed the outage on a thunderstorm. The Xboxes were dead. The Facebook was closed. The kids came downstairs in disillusionment to ask what happened. While the commercial was pushing some tasty dinner product, the message was more palatable – you have to make family time. I would take that message one step further – you have to make family time a priority. I hope that it’s one of yours.
IN West Allegheny is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Allegheny area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUB LIS H ER
Wayne Dollard M A NAGING ED ITOR
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com R EGIONA L ED ITOR
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com OFFIC E M A NAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com W R ITERS
Pamela Palongue GR A PH IC D ES IGN
Have a great Fall!
Wayne Dollard Publisher
FROM THE EDITOR While my boss waxes poetic about family time, I’d like to address something along a similar line – neighbors, or your family outside of your family. My wife and I recently bought a house and moved from the one-bedroom condo that I had lived in for nearly 10 years. While it was good for a bachelor, it quickly became small for a married couple looking to start a family. During those years in the condo, I shared a building with nine other neighbors, most of whom were friendly and good-natured people like Don who lived across the hall from me. Don enjoyed going to the high school football games on Friday nights, watching the races at the racetrack in Imperial and fishing. More often than not, he would bring over a couple of extra fillets that I would season up and devour. He had a nephew that re-shafted golf clubs as a hobby and gladly delivered my broken clubs to him for repair at a more than reasonable price. Then there were some cranky people who just looked out for themselves. They would gawk from their windows into the parking lot to see who was walking by or what was going on, convinced that they were up to no good; would complain about everything from the height of the grass to the paint job on somebody’s car; and really never knew what it was to be part of a community where other people also had a voice and an opinion. Sure, Don would complain if the stock market was down or the price of gas was up, but he never complained that someone left their holiday decorations up a few days longer than everyone else or that the community dues were going up because natural gas was rising and landscapers won’t work for free. He knew how to be a neighbor, and I appreciate that. Now we have new neighbors. All of which are friendly and what every new couple hopes for when they move into a new neighborhood. We hope that we can be the same to them. Because in the end, I didn’t consider Don just a neighbor, I considered him a friend and friends are what neighbors can eventually turn into if you let it. Don asked us when we were selling our condo to sell it to a “pretty, young blonde.” I couldn’t come through for him, but Don – I’m still looking for you, buddy. Don’t lose hope!
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Gail Murray Tamara Tylenda
A DV ERTIS ING S A LES
Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes John Gartley Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel
Brian McKee Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson
PH OTOGR A PH ERS
Brad Lauer Gary Yon This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. 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
Fall content deadline: 10/17/11 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Mark Berton PS – If you have an exceptional neighbor that you think we should profile, drop me a line at mark@incommunitymagazines.com. There are more Don’s out there that deserve to be recognized. 2 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Contents West Allegheny | FALL 2011 |
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16 COMMUNITY INTEREST
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21
34
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS | 4 WEST ALLEGHENY HIGH SCHOOL | School Achieves Project Lead The Way Certification | 8
OAKDALE NEWS BRIEFS | 14 UPMC TODAY | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21
RACEWAY PREDECESSOR SEEKS HISTORIC STATUS | 34 NORTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY DAY | 40 MUNICIPAL CONTACT INFO | 44 KIDS PAGE | 30 FEATURES
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OAKDALE MASONIC LODGE | Celebrating 100th Anniversary | 32
IMPERIAL LANDFILL Final resting Place for Your Trash | 16
TOUR THE MONTOUR TRAIL RIDE | 10 PROFILE ON PAUL HENNMUTH | 38 JOHN BRINKMAN HONORED BY NASA | 29 INDUSTRY INSIGHT
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ON THE COVER
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VEIN INSTITUTE OF PITTSBURGH | 46 AT HOME SENIOR SERVICES | 48 Some of the families and attractions at the North Fayette Community Day in the new Donaldson Park. Photos by Kathleen Rudolph
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WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS DISTRICT RECEIVES GRABLE GRANT FOR ELECTRONIC AND ACOUSTIC SOUND LAB The West Allegheny School District has been awarded a $7,496 Grable Foundation STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Education Grant for the 2011-12 school year. Grant recipients are required to collaborate with a community organization to integrate arts and technology across the academic disciplines. Therefore, the district will use the funds to implement a project entitled “Electronic and Acoustic Sound Lab” in conjunction with the ASSET Science program. High school students enrolled in Music Technology 1 and 2 will derive the most direct benefit from the sound lab. After gaining useful, practical knowledge of the basic principles of the acoustics of sound, these students will apply the concepts they learn to teach lessons to and conduct demonstrations for all fourth grade students at Donaldson, McKee, and Wilson elementary schools. Fourth graders are the target audience since these hands-on activities will
supplement a unit on the study of sound included in the fourth-grade curriculum. Andrew Peters, high school and middle school music teacher, will coordinate the project with the fourth-grade classroom teachers and representatives/teachers from the ASSET Science program. In Music Technology classes, students will explore basic sound principals in timbre, pitch and volume using a variety of electronic instruments. The grant provides funds to purchase these instruments that will afford hands-on experiences for the students on these principles. Grant funds will also be used for student transportation and the creation of a sound lab in the new Music Technology classroom at the high school. The lab currently has 16 student iMac workstations with piano keyboards and current music software (ProTools, GarageBand, Reason, Auralia/Musition and Logic). Students in the Music Technology 1 and 2 classes will benefit from the new sound lab through daily instruction on the basics of audio and experiment with music sequencing and recording.
Registration for preschool classes at West Allegheny High School will be held at the high school cafeteria on Saturday, September 24, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. for three-year-olds and from 12 to 1 p.m. for four-year olds. A copy of the child’s immunization record, birth certificate, and the registration fee of $60 for three-yearolds and $90 for four-year-olds are required at the time of registration. Children must be three or four years old by September 1, 2011, live in the West Allegheny School District, and be potty trained. Four classes, (two for three-year olds and two for four-year olds) will be offered. Class size is limited to 15 on a first come, first served basis with no preregistration. This year the district will lengthen the four-year-old preschool program by 11 weeks beginning on Monday, November 7, 2011, rather than on Monday, January 23, 2012, when the sessions for three-year-olds will begin. Both programs will conclude the week of May 7, 2012. Morning (8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.) and afternoon (11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.) sessions are offered for both age groups. Classes are held on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and follow the West Allegheny School District calendar. The preschool program has been developed to reinforce concepts learned by West Allegheny High School juniors and seniors enrolled in Child Development class. During the first semester, students receive instruction in child development theory and best practice. The second semester consists of the child-centered and developmentally appropriate preschool experience where students plan and teach daily lessons and two-week projects based on predetermined themes. First-year students (Child Development I) will teach the three-year olds, and second-year students (Child Development II) will teach the four-year olds. Family and Consumer Science teachers Amy Rocchio and Sara Ferko will supervise the planning and implementation of the lessons and are present in the classrooms at all times. They follow the Creative Curriculum developed by Diane Trister Dodge and practice developed through their own experience and research. For more information call 724.695.5244, e-mail Mrs. Rocchio at arocchio@westasd.org or Mrs. Ferko at sferko@westasd.org or visit the district Web site at www.westasd.org: schools - high school- programs - preschool.
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WEST ALLEGHENY STUDENT RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT The United States Achievement Academy announced today that Brandi Hermes, from Imperial, has been recognized for academic achievement as a United States National Honor Student Award winner. Hermes, who attends West Allegheny will appear in the United States Achievement Academy’s Official Yearbook which is published nationally. “Recognizing and supporting our youth is more important than ever before in America’s history. Certainly, United States Achievement Academy winners should be congratulated and appreciated for their dedication to excellence and achievement,” said Dr. George Stevens, Founder of the United States Achievement Academy. The USAA National Honor Student Awards provide honor students with many benefits and services and is a great tribute to a student’s dedication, talent and ability. Hermes is the daughter of Jamie Hermes of Bulger, PA. Her grandparents are Veronica Hermes of Bulger, and Marie and Lloyd Ferguson of Bulger.
SCHOOL DISTRICT CHANGES GREET STUDENTS West Allegheny students were welcomed back to school with a host of new changes at the district, including: • West Allegheny Virtual Academy (Cyber School Option) • Electronic Calendar - Visit www.westasd.org - Upcoming Events • Conversion to "paperless" system: This transition will save the district significant dollars, which have traditionally been expended for paper, printing, and mailings and is consistent with the district’s mission to go “green” and be more environmentally friendly. • New Library Science Curriculum • New Preschool Math and Literacy Curricula for three-year-olds and four-year-olds • Revised Math Curriculum • Revised Technology Education Curriculum • Revised Social Studies Curriculum • New Text Books: business/technology and family and consumer science • New Electronic and Acoustic Sound Lab at high school • New CHS (College in High School) Computer Courses:
Programming CHS Visual Basic, Web Site Design and Development, and Programming CHS Java • New Engineering courses (Project Lead the Way): Principles of Engineering and Digital Electronics • New computer courses: Software for Personal Computing, Intro to Programming with Gaming, 3-D Animation with Alice and Flash, and Career and Personal Success (These courses replaced the Office 2007 courses since that material is now covered in the Tech Skills class.) • Other new courses: Newspaper I, II, and III, Digital Photography II, and Broadcast Journalism: WATV/Morning Announcements • Expanded use of Safari Montage software with limitless resources, i.e., access to virtual science experiments and current events news clips • District awarded grant for math software including Real-World Math with Computers and Logger Pro 3 • New computers for student labs and staff • Tenth Anniversary Celebration of 2001 State Football Championship at September 2, 2011, football game
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT UNVEILS VIRTUAL ACADEMY FOR ONLINE LEARNERS Beginning August 2011, the West Allegheny School District will offer its own cyber school. The West Allegheny Virtual Academy will provide online course offerings consistent with West Allegheny curricula and course expectations using synchronous and asynchronous vendors. Synchronous learning, in which students and teachers use their computers to go to a virtual meeting place instead of a classroom, provides direct instruction and opportunities for asking/answering questions in real time. Asynchronous learning is a student-centered teaching method that provides information through online learning resources. The teacher and student are not simultaneously interacting with course content but working together as a team to meet course objectives. Enrollment is based on an agreement between the school district and the student’s family. It gives children an opportunity to complete school work using online curricula at home while allowing them to participate in extra-curricular activities sponsored by the district. Additionally, each Virtual Academy high school student who completes all program requirements will be awarded a West Allegheny High School diploma and will be eligible to participate in the West Allegheny Commencement exercises. Online options will also be available to West Allegheny High School students who are pursuing courses—such as Mandarin Chinese or Advanced Placement World History—that are not currently offered at West Allegheny due to lack of student participation. Similarly, online courses will be offered to West Allegheny kindergarten through grade 12 students who are receiving homebound instruction due to physical ailments. In short, the West Allegheny School District Virtual Academy will provide multiple, flexible options and services that will allow students to design custom cyber solutions to address their unique needs. Consistent with the district’s mission, the West Allegheny School District Virtual Academy will provide online education in a supportive environment to meet the diverse needs of individual learners. The district recognizes that not every student is successful in a traditional classroom setting. The West Allegheny School District Virtual Academy will provide an alternative educational approach so that all students can reach their potential. t
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WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS WEST ALLEGHENY SOPHOMORE SCORES PERFECT 800 ON SAT IN WRITING
WEST ALLEGHENY STUDENT JOINS SCHOLARS AT MEDICINE FORUM National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine Offers Career Insights
West Allegheny High School sophomore Mike This summer West Allegheny sophomore Mike Behme will join young Behme scored a perfect 800 in writing on the scholars from across the nation to participate in the National Youth Leadership Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), which he took in May Forum on Medicine (NYLF/MED) in Chicago, July 10-19, 2011. Sessions will 2011. The test was divided into two parts with the first take place in nine other cities throughout the United part consisting of 80 multiple choice States. Chemistry teacher Diane Boustead nominated questions and the second part devoted Mike for the program based on his academic excellence, to essay writing. Mike is the first West his leadership potential, and his interest in a career in Allegheny student to score this high on medicine. the SAT writing section as a sophomore Throughout the 10-day forum, NYLF/MED will since writing was added to the math introduce students to a variety of concepts in public and reading sections of the test by the health, medical ethics, research and general practice and College Board in 2005. will include site visits to medical facilities and clinics. Besides his academic achievements Scholars will engage in a simulation using problem-based as an honor roll student, Mike has held learning, an educational method in which students will several leadership positions during high be presented a fictional patient’s case history and must school. He was elected class president in diagnose and develop a treatment plan for the patient. both his freshman and sophomore years “Each student may very well be the face of the future and was selected as assistant captain of of medicine,” said NYLF Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. the West Allegheny Junior Varsity Ice Marguerite C. Regan. “The National Youth Leadership Hockey team. As a member of the high Forum on Medicine creates a virtual classroom with MIKE BEHME school Forensics team, he has won hospitals, clinical facilities and healthcare professionals. awards in Mock Trial and Euro Challenge. By shadowing key personnel, these students will have a great opportunity to Besides his school activities, Mike devotes gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on a medical career. Timing is critical as considerable time to community service. Three years young people explore their career paths, just prior to immersing themselves in ago, he started his own charity Hat Tricks 4 Humanity. college coursework.” Working with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Mike's charity In addition to visiting cutting-edge medical schools and clinical facilities, has donated over 6,500 hats from Penguins Hat Tricks these students will have the opportunity to hear from and interact with leaders and local donors to those in need both locally and in the medical field. Students interact with physicians, surgeons, researchers, worldwide and has been featured on ESPN, WQED, scientists, and medical educators as they view these professionals at work. KDKA and in Pittsburgh area newspapers. He is also NYLF is an educational organization that introduces outstanding young an Eagle Scout and plays community inline hockey. people to various professions, empowering them with the confidence to make He lives in Coraopolis with his parents Michael and well-informed career choices. NYLF has provided programming to more than Susan Behme, his sister Kristi, and his brother Mark. 100,000 students. Additional information is available at www.nylf.org.
West Allegheny School District welcomes new board member At its regular meeting on July 20, 2011, the West Allegheny School Board appointed Jeff O'Donnell to fill the seat vacated by the June 22 resignation of Patrick Konieczny. O'Donnell will serve until December 7, 2011. Because this is a municipal election year, the position must be placed on the November ballot. The successful candidate would then fill the seat for two years until December 2013, when Konieczny's term will expire. Superintendent Dr. John S. DiSanti said “The Board and Administration 6 724.942.0940 to advertise |
welcome Mr. O'Donnell and look forward to having him join our educational governance team.” A lifelong resident of the West Allegheny School District, O'Donnell holds a B.A. degree from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.S. degree from Youngstown State University. He is a Findlay Township Police Officer and an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at Point Park University. He lives in McDonald with his wife Dana. Their children Chelsey and John are both West Allegheny graduates.
West Allegheny
West Allegheny student recognized with top honors at FBLA national conference West Allegheny High School 2011 graduate Victoria Williams placed among the top ten in the country at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference held June 28-July 1, 2011, in Orlando, Florida. She took eighth place in the Client Services category, which requires participants to talk with clients about products, handle inquiries, solve problems, and look for additional opportunities to help. Entrants in this category are judged on such competencies as multitasking, communications skills, cooperation, decision making, conflict resolution skills, and having a positive and outgoing personality. Victoria was honored on stage with the other nine top finishers at the conclusion of the competition. This national events program recognizes and rewards excellence in a broad range of business and careerrelated areas. In addition to the competition, students were engaged in educational workshops, visited an information-packed exhibit hall, and attended motivational keynotes on a broad range of business topics. Regarding the impact of her participation in FBLA on her career plans, Victoria said, “Though I’m not entering the business field directly, FBLA has still prepared me for my future because the skills used in competition are applicable to all careers.” She plans to begin pursuing a career in pharmacy at Ohio State University in the fall. The conference included approximately 57 business events with competitors from all 50 states plus the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Grand Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. The three-day event consisted of an initial round of competition among the top students from each state and other locations where competitors were eliminated to determine 12 finalists. These students, in turn, vied for the top ten places. To qualify for the national event, Victoria took second place in the Client Services category at the FBLA State Leadership Conference held at Hershey, Pennsylvania in April. This is the third consecutive year that someone from the West Allegheny High School FBLA Chapter has placed in the top ten at the national level. FBLA is sponsored by High School Business/Computer teachers Dan Marshall and Pam Volakis. t
West Allegheny elementary and middle school band students rehearse for the July 22 concert during Summer Music Camp.
WEST ALLEGHENY SUMMER MUSIC CAMP INTRODUCES NEW CONCEPTS A group of West Allegheny elementary and middle school students participated in a Summer Music Camp at Donaldson Elementary School during July. The program was offered to all band students who have completed the fourth, fifth, or sixth grade. In a relaxed summer setting, camp included instrument group lessons, group and full-band practice, music theory, and other music instruction. Skills learned this past school year were reviewed and new concepts introduced. To conclude the camp week, the students participated in a concert on July 22, at at Donaldson Elementary School. Parents were encouraged to attend and students were treated to a pizza party prior to the concert.
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WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
West Allegheny High School achieves Project Lead The Way certification for stem education program West Allegheny High School Students Now Eligible to Receive College Level Recognition at PLTW Affiliate Universities for Certain “Pathway To Engineering” Courses; West Allegheny and PLTW Continue Partnership to Engage More Students in Engineering and Technology Fields that are Critical to the U.S. Economy. West Allegheny High School announced today that it has received national certification for the Project Lead The Way program that it began offering this year (2010-11). Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a non-profit organization and the nation’s leading provider of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, offers a rigorous curriculum that allows students to apply what they are learning in math and science class to real-life engineering and technology projects. A National Business Roundtable report states that to remain competitive in the global marketplace, America needs to graduate 400,000 science, engineering, mathematics and technical four-year degrees annually, yet we are currently graduating only 265,000. PLTW is providing students with a foundation and a proven path to college and career success in these areas, preparing them to fill the hightech, high-skill jobs of the 21st century. The primary purposes of the certification program are to recognize schools that have successfully demonstrated a commitment to the quality national standards of the Pathway To Engineering program and to provide an opportunity for students to apply for college credit at PLTW affiliate universities for selected PLTW courses. PLTW has more than 35 affiliate colleges and university partners that offer students credit for completing certain PLTW courses in high school, including Penn State. Dan Smith, principal of West Allegheny High School said, 8 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
“We’ve seen how the PLTW program draws more students to engineering and technology courses and gets them thinking about college and their career. We are extremely proud to be PLTW certified and ecstatic that our students can begin receiving college-level recognition, including credits for certain PLTW classes. We would not have been able to introduce and sustain this program, however, without the leadership of Mr. Martin Lestander, high school Engineering & Technology Education teacher.” Smith and a team composed of teachers, staff, students, and members of the community completed a self-assessment of the school’s implementation of the Pathway to Engineering program that culminated in a site visit by a national PLTW certification specialist. The certification team met with teachers, administration, counselors, students, and community representatives and reviewed student work.
“West Allegheny High School has demonstrated its commitment to the quality standards of PLTW’s Pathway To Engineering program, and the real winners are West Allegheny students,” said Thor S. Misko, interim CEO of PLTW. “Students are benefiting from an innovative curriculum that encourages creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking; and on top of that, they can earn college credit for some of these courses, gain admissions preference, and receive scholarships. We congratulate the entire West Allegheny community and look forward to many more years of working together to prepare West Allegheny students to become the most innovative and productive in the world.” Teachers are a critical component of the success of the PLTW program. All teachers are required to complete an intensive two-week professional development course during the summer before they can teach a PLTW course. Students who enroll in PLTW courses also benefit from the organization’s strong university and industry relationships that allow students to begin working toward their college degree and gain valuable experience through internships and local business executives who serve as mentors. Martin Lestander, Department Chair, added, “The beauty of PLTW courses is that our kids get to experience how a formula they learned in math applies to a real-world project. In class, there are limited lectures; kids are building, developing and creating. That is the kind of hands-on experience that will engage more students in fields that they might otherwise never consider.”
ABOUT PLTW Project Lead The Way is a national, 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that is the leading provider of rigorous and innovative STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education curricular programs used in K-12 schools. PLTW’s comprehensive curriculum, which is collaboratively developed by PLTW teachers, university educators, engineering and biomedical professionals, and school administrators, emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, innovation, and realworld problem solving–all important skills for students to develop in today’s 21stcentury global economy. The hands-on, project-based program engages students by showing them how what they are learning in math and science class applies to real-world challenges. The program exposes students to areas of study that they typically do not pursue and provides them with a foundation and proven path to college and career success in STEM related fields. PLTW began in 1997 in 12 high schools in upstate New York as a program designed to address the shortage of engineering students at the college level and has grown to a network of nearly 4,000 middle and high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. More than 350,000 students are expected to take a PLTW course during the coming school year. For more information, visit www.pltw.org or contact Martin Lestander, 724.695.5201, Ext. 3709 or mlestander@westasd.org. t
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f you are into bicycling, you know about the Montour Trail. Miles upon miles of trail, the Montour Trail not only is good for walkers, rollerbladers and joggers, it’s a nice trail for pedalers as well. This September, starting at Mile 0 off of Route 51, the 9th Annual Thermo Fisher Scientific “Tour the Montour Trail Ride” will take place and is open to riders of all calibers. The ride starts at 7 a.m. and is finished at 3:30 p.m. The 9th Annual Tour the Montour continues the tradition as one of Western Pennsylvania's finest Fall rides. For men, women, and children, it includes rides of 6, 12, 24, 44, and 62 miles on the beautiful Montour Trail. The ride has become well known for its sumptuous lunch as well as its unique t-shirts. T-shirts are only guaranteed for riders who pre-register by Sept. 9th. All riders have the option to be timed individually up a 7/10ths of a mile hill (Hassam Rd - closed to traffic, not part of the main Trail Ride). At an average of an 8% grade, the man and woman with the fastest times will truly be the "King" and "Queen" of the Mountain and will receive a special bicycling jersey for their effort. The rides start time depends on how far you plan on riding. The 62-mile ride begins at 7:45 a.m.; the 44-mile ride starts at 8:15 a.m.; the 12- and 24-mile rides start at 8:30 a.m.; and the 6-mile ride begins at 9 a.m. Registration for all rides begins at 7 a.m. Post ride amenities include lunch and refreshments available at Brothers Grimm at Mile 3 of the Trail (Old Beaver Grade Road). Then it's a leisurely 3 miles downhill back to Mile 0. There also is a King and Queen of the Mountain Challenge. Adult registration is $25 before Sept. 9, and $30 after Sept. 9. Children 12 and under are $5 each. Family rates also are available. Montour Trail members receive a $5 discount on registration fees. All proceeds benefit the maintenance and expansion of the Montour Trail.
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West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
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OAKDALE NEWS BRIEFS Center Avenue Bridge Construction Update Borough Council accepted the lowest bid of $36,534.00 at a special meeting July 19th for replacement of the Center Avenue Bridge. Rhino Construction was the successful bidder. One way traffic will be necessary during construction. Turpin Hill residents will be advised of starting and finishing dates as information is received.
Western Allegheny Community Library Board Oakdale Borough is looking for a civic-minded resident to represent Oakdale on the Western Allegheny Community Library Board. If you are interested, please contact Barb Piskorik at 724.693.8105 for more information.
Oakdale Residents – We Need Your Primary Phone Number for Water Emergencies Oakdale Borough, employs an automated system that allows officials to quickly contact residents via telephone should there be a water-related event that requires widespread notification. To contact you, it is important that the borough has your current phone number. If you have recently changed your primary phone number, please contact 724.693.9740.
55%
20%
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ATTENTION LANDLORDS! If you are a landlord and pay for water service for your unit(s) or building(s), the borough will need the phone numbers of your tenants to contact them. Please call 724.693.9740 and provide your tenants’ information. It only takes a minute, and you can help ensure that your tenants will be informed of any events.
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INDIANS VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE FOR 2011 Get out there and cheer on West Allegheny! DAY
DATE
TIME
OPPONENT
FACILITY
Sat
Aug 20
10AM
@ Mount Lebanon High School (scrimmage)
Mt. Lebanon High School
Fri
Aug 26
6PM
@ Belle Vernon Area High School (scrimmage)
Belle Vernon HS
Fri
Sep 2
7PM
vs. South Park High School
DeMichela Stadium
Fri
Sep 9
7PM
@ Central Valley HS
Central Valley HS
Fri
Sep 16
7PM
vs. Blackhawk High School
DeMichela Stadium
Fri
Sep 23
7PM
vs. Upper St. Clair High School
DeMichela Stadium
Sat
Oct 1
1:30PM
@ Ambridge HS
Ambridge High School
Fri
Oct 7
7PM
vs. Moon Area High School
DeMichela Stadium
Fri
Oct 14
7:30PM
@ New Castle High School
New Castle High School
Fri
Oct 21
7PM
vs. Montour High School
DeMichela Stadium
Fri
Oct 28
7PM
@ Hopewell High School
Hopewell High School
14 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Senior Projects Culminate in Oral Presentations To fulfill graduation requirements, West Allegheny seniors were evaluated on oral presentations representing the final phase of their senior project on May 13, 2011. Advisor teams met to assess the presenters with regard to speaking style, demeanor, and delivery, along with the content, organization, and use of media for audio/visual aid. Students were encouraged to consider three focus options in selecting a topic: community service, career exploration, and development and implementation of an event, activity, or design. Topics ranged from Sources in Journalism to Acid Mine Drainage as well as Nicotine Addiction and Water-Cooled Panels in an Electric Arc Furnace, to name just a few.
Senior Michael Scheers arranged to have an ambulance on site to present his senior project entitled Benefits of Pre-Hospital Intubation to math teacher Karen Horwatt.
they can receive all information sent out electronically rather than by regular mail. The process involves logging on to the District website at www.westasd.org to complete the online e-mail update form. A link is available on the District home page.
WEST ALLEGHENY ELECTRONIC SCHOOL ACTIVITIES CALENDAR ELIMINATES NEED FOR PRINTED VERSION DISTRICT REQUESTS E-MAIL ADDRESSES FROM PARENTS FOR CONVERSION TO "PAPERLESS" SYSTEM As part of West Allegheny’s ongoing effort to curtail costs without impacting educational programs and services, the District has begun to transition to a “paperless” system for the 2011-12 school year and beyond. This transition will save the District significant dollars, which have traditionally been expended for paper, printing, and mailings. A “paperless” system also is consistent with the District’s mission to go “green” and be more environmentally friendly. To help with this effort, parents are asked to provide their valid and up-to-date e-mail address so
With the launch of its new Web site in April 2010, the district acquired the capability for an online calendar, which is updated as needed by the building and district webmasters throughout the school year. It can be found on the home page at www.westasd.org under "Upcoming Events." While only the ten most current events display on the screen, the entire calendar is available by clicking the "Full Calendar" link at the bottom right of the screen. Calendar options provide for customization so users can choose to see and print only events for a particular building, i.e., high school, or a particular category of events, i.e., "meetings" or "arts events." Since this electronic calendar proved effective for publicizing district and building-level events last year, the district determined there is no longer a need for a printed calendar. In light of the t
reduction this year of the district's revenue from the state, this cost-cutting measure will save in both printing and postage expenses. It will also eliminate outdated information since calendar changes often occurred after printing in the past. Therefore, for the 2011-12 school year, parents for whom the district has e-mail addresses will receive a calendar supplement document by e-mail rather than a paper calendar by US mail several weeks before the school year begins. Parents are asked to provide their valid and upto-date e-mail addresses to the school in order to receive information electronically. The process involves logging on to the District website at www.westasd.org to complete the online e-mail update form. A link is available on the District home page. The supplement will direct recipients to the electronic school calendar and contain important information previously listed in the printed calendar. Topics include bus schedules, bus safety, athletic schedules, Parent Information Notice, school board, administrative team, district and building telephone numbers, and other general information. The calendar supplement itself will be posted on the Web site along with the board-approved two-page calendar setting the school year. By converting to an electronic school activities calendar, West Allegheny joins the growing list of school districts that have already made this decision.
West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
Imperial Landfill
It takes in 1,700 tons of garbage every day from 220 trucks.
FUN FACTS
I
t seems oxymoronic to describe a landfill as “clean.” If you’re a resident of the West Allegheny region, all of your non-recyclable garbage leaves the curb via hardworking trash haulers, travels down the road to Imperial and is dumped at the Imperial Landfill, which is run by Republic Services. That’s the image in your head, probably, and it would be correct, except “dumped” is a misleading term. There’s no mountain of trash surrounded by swarming birds picking open sun-baked trash bags. In fact, the reality is, well, clean. Brett Bowker, general manager for Republic, said the reason for the landfill’s cleanliness isn’t just for public relations, but for efficient landfill management surpassing what’s expected of them by agencies such as the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Allegheny County Health Department, both of which inspect the landfill regularly and permit the site for operations. From the moment one of the more than 200 garbage trucks enters the site to deposit their haul, they are met with multiple systems tasked with keeping the landfill as clean and orderly as possible. The first thing that happens with every truck is that it is weighed at a scale house at the front gate. The entire truck rolls onto a giant scale. As the driver checks in with the scale house operator, the scale reads the tonnage of the truck. After the truck deposits its trash, it’s weighed upon exiting the landfill and the difference in the before and after weights is recorded. The trash hauler’s operating company then pays fees to the landfill based on that number. But not only is the truck weighed at the gate, it’s also scanned for radioactive materials. Bowker said the detector is so sensitive that it has been known to pick up radioactivity from the disposable undergarments of people who have undergone chemotherapy, which uses radioactive chemicals to fight cancer. If anything radioactive happens to be detected, the truck is parked and searched by authorities to uncover the cause and remove the offending matter for proper disposal.
O
nce a truck has been checked in, it makes its way down a long, winding road to the day’s active work site – a section of the landfill that’s about the width of six garbage trucks parked side by side. Each truck will back into the site, dump their hauls and head back down the road. What happens to the trash next is key to the landfill’s organization and success.
16 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
It collects gas from hundreds of wells onsite for renewable energy.
It’s estimated to be in operation for another 39 years before reaching capacity.
For added security, a base of 8 feet of dirt is laid over the liner before garbage starts filling it in. As it fills in the hole, it’s covered with dirt and more garbage, eventually growing to about 30 to 40 feet high. Each night, workers cover the day’s trash with a layer of dirt, to alleviate odors and keep trash from blowing about the site. Once it reaches its maximum height, it is capped with the same liner, covered over with dirt and seeded just like a field. With the passage of time, the landfill begins to look more like natural, rolling hills. In 40 years, if it’s decommissioned, the site may become home to passive recreational facilities such as a golf course, or simply green space. Gas from decomposing garbage is collected via a system of hundreds of interconnected wells, refined onsite by a contracted refinery, and sold to various outside interests. Literally nothing is wasted, and the site is able to actively contribute to the energy needs of the region.
D
A bulldozer pushes the dumped trash into a mound, on top of which, a 55-ton compactor – a giant machine with spiky, steel tires – drives over and over the trash, flattening it as far as it will go. At the end of each work day, the active work site is covered with a layer of dirt and another site is made ready for the next day’s haul. All of this
activity starts below ground, where the landfill is excavated to about 30 feet deep. A thick plastic liner is laid into the pit, ensuring that no trash or leachate seeps into the soil. The liner is described by Bowker as a giant trash bag that the garbage sits in. However, the material is thick, rigid and practically impervious to ripping, tearing or puncturing.
t
avid Borowicz, environmental manager for the landfill, said the amount of gas collected via the site’s 339 wells for 2010 was 900 million standard cubic feet of gas. That converts to the equivalent of 155,070 barrels of crude oil. A sister Republic landfill in Loraine County provides enough power to meet the needs of 8,500 homes with the gas collected from its wells. “It’s enough to power a small town or city,” he said. “It’s not just one home’s worth of power generation, it’s thousands.” Jeff Kraus, spokesman for Republic Services, said the company, which is based in Phoenix, has 30,000 employees servicing 193 landfills in 40 states. It also operates 76 recycling centers as well, and is very innovative when it comes to green technology and programs. “We have landfill gas-to-energy programs
Continued on page 18
West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
more
Imperial Landfill
It takes in waste from most of Western Pennsylvania.
FUN FACTS
Continued from page 17 all across America. Anheiser-Busch in Houston and General Motors in Fort Wayne use our landfill gas for electricity in their plants,” he said. “When visitors come here, they always go away impressed with our operations. We actually have people on site who will go and pick up litter. These are extra steps that we do to help keep our site clean and efficient.” Borowicz said that the site also has 32 groundwater monitoring wells that are tested quarterly, with results reported to multiple regulatory agencies. “These facilities are very monitored,” Kraus said. “A lot of data is collected on landfills. Landfills are the most sanitary and best way to dispose of waste. Because of our professionals, every day of their lives are devoted to the operations of our landfills. We take pride in our operations. We also take pride in our employee safety here. That’s very important. Safety is something that everybody from office to operations are conscious of safety and it’s reinforced here.”
O
n their way back to the weigh-house, the trucks pass through an automatic rinsing station, which is essentially a drive-in bath tub with six automatic spray nozzles that wash the lower half of the truck and undercarriage, guaranteeing that no loose garbage finds its way on the roadway leading to and from the facility. Water trucks also routinely drive up and down the road leading up to the dump site, spraying water to eliminate dust and particulates from becoming airborne. The work is endless, starting at midnight 18 724.942.0940 to advertise |
It follows strict guidelines and regimens to ensure that all groundwater, rainwater and leachate (water that comes into contact with garbage) is tested, treated if necessary, and disposed of in accordance with the law.
each night. Trucks end their deliveries by 3 p.m. to allow landfill workers to cover up the day’s active work phase and start a new phase for the next day. While it might be endless, not to mention thankless work, Krauss and Bowker said the work does have peaks and troughs just like any other industry. “Typically your summer months are heavier than your winter months because construction’s going on, people are cleaning their houses, things like that,” Bowker said. Kraus added that the economy also has impacted the garbage business. “People are buying fewer things and they’re disposing of fewer things, and I’ve observed that at some of other landfills, like in Ohio, that has resulted in a decrease in garbage at those sites,” he said. When the site finally does wind up its life of operations 39 years from now, it will continue to be monitored and regulated for decades to come. Borowicz said the closure period on landfills in Pennsylvania is 30 years, so during that time, while there won’t be any new garbage added to the site, wells will continue to collect gas, and officials will continue to monitor groundwater, storm water runoff and numerous other indicators to ensure the site remains properly capped. Republic will continue monitoring the site as well, during that closure period. After that time, Kraus said anything could happen. “There are former landfill sites that are golf courses. Others have been turned into nature areas,” he said. “It takes a while to get there, but over time, uses can be found.”
West Allegheny
“We have landfill gas-toenergy programs all across America. AnheiserBusch in Houston and General Motors in Fort Wayne use our landfill gas for electricity in their plants,” David Borowicz, environmental manager
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West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
SnsTEvent! E G IG atio ar’s B Renov
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Festival of Homes September 24 & 25 / October 1 & 2 The region’s top professional homebuilders and remodelers open their doors and spotlight the area’s hottest new communities, homes, decorating and remodeling ideas in homes of all types and styles. Register online at http://www.pghhomebuilders.com/ SPONSORED BY
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West Allegheny
FA L L 2 0 1 1
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside
© 2011 UPMC
page 2
Serious Games for Stroke Recovery
page 3
Use Your Head to Stop Strokes
page 4
Healthy Eating for Busy Families Achoo! Don’t Get the Flu
page 5
Giving Women Options for Fibroid Treatment Magee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helps women determine the right solution for themselves
page 6
A New Level of Pinpoint Accuracy That’s Patient Friendly
page 7
Take the Hit of a Concussion Seriously
Serious Games for Stroke Recovery Robotics and gaming offer fun — and effective — therapy for patients in rehabilitation It’s hard to resist playing video games that allow us to escape from the ordinary. That bit of fun and distraction is exactly what doctors are prescribing for patients at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation — and the results are impressive. Located at UPMC Mercy, the center regularly uses robotics and gaming technologies, along with traditional therapies, as part of its treatment plan.
An individualized approach “Because strokes result in a loss of important physical and mental abilities, they can be devastating to patients and their families,” says Jennifer Shen, MD, the center’s medical director. “No two stroke patients are alike, so we create a specific multidisciplinary treatment plan for each patient that can include speech, occupational, and physical therapies.” The one common element in stroke rehabilitation is repetition, which is essential to increased strength, motor learning, and recovery. But while repetition is key to the healing process, it can soon lead to boredom.
Defeating the boredom factor To keep patients engaged and involved in their therapy, the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute established the Robotics and Gaming Center at UPMC Mercy. The center’s technologies — which include the GameCycle®, Lokomat®, Nintendo® Wii , Armeo®Spring, and Armeo®Boom — allow for precise, measured, and varied repetition that can be adjusted for individualized care. The ArmeoBoom is in clinical use nowhere else in Pittsburgh, and in very few places across the country. (See the box below to learn more about some of these technologies and their role in a patient’s rehabilitation.) TM
UPMC’s Robotics and Gaming Center Robotics and gaming technology are fast becoming valuable tools in stroke rehabilitation. In addition to the ArmeoBoom, the robotics and gaming technologies available at UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation include: GameCycle: A stationary hand cycle that’s used with a commercial video game to combine cardiovascular and balance exercises with flexibility and strength training. The GameCycle was invented at the University of Pittsburgh. Lokomat: A robotic treadmill for people who can’t walk on their own that allows them to build leg muscles while retraining the brain to control leg movements. ArmeoSpring: Like the ArmeoBoom, it provides fun and motivating therapeutic exercises for arms and hands to help patients relearn tasks.
2
www.UPMC.com/Today
Dr. Michael Boninger shows how the ArmeoBoom’s games and simulated tasks allow rehab patients to work hard and have fun.
“Rehabilitation can be tedious because it takes a lot of repetition to teach the body to move again,” explains Michael Boninger, MD, director of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute. “Using robotic equipment, such as the ArmeoBoom, for rehabilitation is kind of sneaky. It allows patients to enjoy playing a game while they’re actually working very hard at rehabilitation.” To use the ArmeoBoom, patients strap their arm into a sling attached to an overhead boom. Robotic supports allow patients to move their arm while playing reach-and-retrieval computer games such as solitaire and placing apples in a shopping cart, along with simulated tasks, such as cooking or cleaning. “Besides injecting a much-needed sense of fun and adventure into the challenges of rehabilitation, the computer games on the ArmeoBoom provide quick feedback that gives patients a sense of accomplishment that is very important,” says Jaclyn Glosser, MS, OTR/L, CBIS, an occupational therapist at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute who works with patients on the ArmeoBoom. Dr. Shen agrees that instant feedback is important in stroke rehabilitation. “It can be very hard for stroke patients to see that they are making progress,” she notes, “but with the ArmeoBoom, patients see what they can do. With even the smallest movement, patients recognize that they are getting better.” For more information about the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation, call 1-877-AT-REHAB (1-877-287-3422) or visit www.UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.
Use Your Head to Stop Strokes Be smart about your heart — and stroke treatment — to protect your brain The myths about stroke are numerous. Among the most popular — and perhaps one of the most dangerous — is that stroke is something that happens only to older adults. In fact, a recent report by the American Stroke Association showed a sharp rise in stroke hospitalizations among men and women ages 15 to 44, while rates declined by 25 percent among older adults. “The biggest mistake people make is thinking it won’t happen to them,” says Tudor Jovin, MD, director of the UPMC Stroke Institute. “Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age,” he says.
“You’re at risk any time your blood pressure or cholesterol are up. It’s far better to prevent a stroke than to deal with the consequences.” — Lawrence Wechsler, MD
Lowering your risk is the best way to avoid the life-changing impact a stroke can have on you and your family. When a stroke does occur, fast action is critical to minimize damage. The window of opportunity for the most successful stroke treatment is just three hours after onset.
Think FAST
Prevention: What you can do
Use this simple acronym to help determine whether you’re witnessing a stroke:
“Heart disease increases your chances of having a stroke, so it’s important to control the risk factors,” says Lawrence Wechsler, MD, chair of the Department of Neurology at UPMC. While you can’t do anything about your age, family history, or ethnicity (African-Americans have a higher incidence of stroke), you can control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking.
Face:
Can the person smile (or does one side of the face droop)?
Arms:
Can the person raise both arms (or does one side drift downward)?
Speech: Can the person speak clearly or repeat a simple phrase?
“You’re at risk any time your blood pressure or cholesterol are up. It’s far better to prevent a stroke than to deal with the consequences,” Dr. Wechsler says.
Time:
Treatment: Time lost is brain lost
Act FAST
Every minute after the start of a stroke means greater risk of permanent damage or death. One of the best treatments for ischemic strokes — where a clot blocks blood flow to the brain — is the quick administration of the clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). While UPMC doctors have had success beyond three hours with a special procedure to retrieve the blockage or dissolve it with drugs administered directly into the clot, time is critical.
Strokes require immediate medical attention, so knowing the warning signs is crucial, says Maxim D. Hammer, MD, director of stroke services at UPMC Mercy. Stroke symptoms can include sudden onset of:
For patients experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke caused by bleeding in the brain, fast action is needed to repair the leaking blood vessel.
Call 911 If you suspect someone has suffered a stroke, call for emergency medical help immediately so treatment can begin without delay. Specialized stroke centers — such as UPMC’s Stroke Institute at UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, UPMC St. Margaret, and UPMC Mercy — have experts available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to diagnose and treat patients. The UPMC Stroke Telemedicine Program also uses technology to provide fast treatment to patients at other UPMC hospitals throughout western Pennsylvania.
Call 911 immediately, if someone exhibits any of these warning signs!
• Paralysis or weakness in the face or limbs, especially on one side of the body • Problems with balance or walking • Vision problems • Slurred speech • Problems communicating or understanding • Severe headache To learn more about stroke prevention and treatment, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.
1-800-533-UPMC
3
Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Healthy Eating for Busy Families America is getting fatter and Pennsylvania is helping to lead the way as one of the nation’s top 20 “most obese” states. Our busy lifestyles encourage unhealthy eating habits, like eating on the run and high-fat/high-sugar snacking. But with a little effort, you can gradually transform your family’s diet from “fat” to “fit”!
Achoo!
Don’t Get the Flu
Start your day off right Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Kids who eat breakfast — especially those packed with “brain food” like protein, vitamin C, and omega 3 — are more alert and focused in school; adults have more energy and concentrate better.
Unpredictable. That’s the best way to describe flu season, which officially begins in late October and winds down in May. Winter is prime flu season, but it can peak as early as October or as late as April.
• Is cereal your family’s breakfast of choice? Look for low-sugar, high-fiber options and top with fresh fruit and low-fat milk (1% or fat-free). • Get your creative juices flowing with easy-to-make fruit and yogurt smoothies. • Crunched for time? Grab a hard-boiled egg and toast, or top an apple or banana with peanut butter for a tasty “breakfast to go.”
It’s impossible to know what the 2011-12 flu season has in store for us. What we do know is that the flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe reactions, and it can even be fatal. Every year, more than 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized with the flu. The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get vaccinated every year.
Think smart when it comes to fast-food lunches No time to pack your own lunch? Use these healthy strategies when dining out: • Say no to fried, sautéed, or creamy foods. Opt for roasted, grilled, broiled, steamed, or baked meals. • Beware of add-ons (like mayo, butter, and salad dressing) that quickly increase calorie counts. • Replace sodas with water or fat-free or 1% milk. Even diet sodas can be bad for you! • Go online for the nutrition information on your favorite meal. Don’t just focus on calories: look at factors like fat and sodium content.
Who is at risk? Even healthy children and adults can become very sick from the flu and spread it to family and friends. You can pass on the flu before even knowing you are sick!
Who should get the flu vaccine? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone over the age of six months gets vaccinated. Those at higher risk for serious complications from the flu include: • People age 65 and older • Children younger than five, but especially children younger than two • People with health conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as kidney, liver, and neurological disorders • Pregnant women
Make dinner a family affair
Others who should get a flu shot: • Health care workers
Eating together as a family offers countless benefits — including serving more balanced, nutritious meals and the chance for parents to serve as “healthy eating” role models.
• Residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities, as well as family and friends who have contact with a resident
• Talk to your children about portion control, with fruits and vegetables comprising half of every plate. • Reduce the amount of meat your family eats by gradually introducing healthy alternatives into your meals, like fish, whole grains, and beans. • Look for seasonal produce that is grown locally. In the fall, that means vegetables like pumpkins and squash, and fruits like apples and pears. Interested in learning more about nutritious eating? Check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new guidelines at www.choosemyplate.gov.
• Caregivers of young children, especially infants under six months who are at the highest risk of flu-related complications
What is the best time to get vaccinated? The sooner you get a flu shot, the sooner you’ll be protected. However, experts agree: it’s never too late. If you have questions about getting a flu shot, talk to your doctor. To locate a physician in your area, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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www.UPMC.com/Today
Giving Women Options for Fibroid Treatment Magee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helps women determine the right solution for them Robin Eberle of Butler, Pa., never had a problem with her periods. But when this mother of five hit her mid-40s, her periods became heavier and lasted longer. “There were times I couldn’t even leave the house,” she recalls.
In the past, the leading treatment for UFTs has been a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). “It’s still the only way to totally prevent fibroids from recurring,” says Philip Orons, DO, chief of interventional radiology at Magee. “But women who are planning to have Before embolization children or who are some years away from menopause may want to consider other options.”
Fibroids
Her gynecologist prescribed an ultrasound, then an MRI. Based on those results, he diagnosed Robin with uterine fibroid tumors (UFTs) and referred her to the Fibroid Treatment Center at MageeWomens Hospital of UPMC.
For Robin, her treatment of choice was a uterine fibroid embolization, a minimally invasive procedure requiring little downtime. Using a thin catheter, about the size of a spaghetti strand, Dr. Orons injected small particles into the blood vessels that “feed” the fibroids to stop the flow of blood to them. “The procedure literally changed my life,” says Robin.
As many as three out of every four women have UFTs, but the majority never even know it. For women like Robin, though, these non-cancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can literally take over their lives.
The Fibroid Treatment Center
After embolization
Established in 2008, the Fibroid Treatment Center offers the region’s most comprehensive approach to UFTs. “We bring together gynecologists and interventional radiologists with extensive expertise in treating fibroids,” says Richard Guido, MD, the center’s founder and director. “Our focus is educating women on their full options so they can choose the best treatment plan for themselves.” The center’s structure also offers women much-valued convenience. “During a one-day visit, you can have necessary diagnostic tests done, the results of these tests evaluated, and then meet with our physicians for a counseling session to determine your best plan of action,” says Dr. Guido.
The center offers a full range of other options, including pain medication, hormonal therapy, and surgery. It also has a research component that includes trial procedures unavailable elsewhere.
To learn more Women are encouraged to first have a conversation with their doctor if they think they may have UFTs. If you’re looking for a physician in your area, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). You can also visit the Fibroid Treatment Center’s webpage at www.UPMC.com/Magee. The center also will host a Community Health Talk at Magee on Thursday, Sept. 29. For details, call 412-641-4435.
Do You Have UFTs? Chris D’Amico, RN, MSN, CRNP, UPMC Mercy’s obstetrics/ gynecology administrator, says that uterine fibroid tumors can be as small as a marble or as large as a grapefruit. “It’s not clear why fibroids occur, although family history seems to play a role,” she explains. “They’re also seen more frequently among African-American women.” She advises that women be alert to these early symptoms: • Heavy bleeding • A sense of pelvic pressure • Pain during intercourse
“Symptoms usually appear in the late 30s and 40s, and they often can be controlled through hormonal therapy or other medication,” says Ms. D’Amico. “But others require more aggressive treatment, such as surgery or uterine fibroid embolization.” For most women, the symptoms of fibroids significantly diminish during menopause. It’s important to know that other conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of UFTs. That’s why it’s vital to have regular checkups, and keep an open line of communication with your gynecologist or family doctor. For more information, visit www.UPMCMercy.com.
1-800-533-UPMC
5
A New Level of Pinpoint Accuracy That’s Patient Friendly TrueBeam allows UPMC cancer specialists to enhance treatment and patient comfort TM
Martha Makin of Somerset, Pa., says she’s “done it all” since being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2007. Not a candidate for surgery, the 69-year-old grandmother first received chemotherapy, followed by multiple radiation treatments that required her to remain still on a hard surface for long periods. But her most recent radiation treatment in April used a new form of technology that left her impressed and enthusiastic. “I was amazed at how fast and comfortable it was,” she says. “It’s definitely my choice for future treatments!”
Determining the right treatment “We see many cancer patients who are not good candidates for conventional surgery, particularly among the elderly,” explains Neil Christie, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon with UPMC. “Additional medical complications or hard-to-reach tumors just make surgery too risky.” Radiation therapy is often used in such instances to shrink or eliminate tumors. For Martha, her age and type of tumor made her a good candidate for the Novalis® powered by TrueBeam STx system, selected by UPMC cancer specialists for the precision, speed, and comfort it offers patients. TM
“TrueBeam is one of the most advanced radiation technology available,” says Dwight E. Heron, MD, FACRO, professor of radiation oncology and otolaryngology, and vice chairman for clinical affairs, Department of Radiation Oncology at UPMC Cancer Centers. “It’s letting us treat challenging cancers of the brain, lungs, spine, neck, and prostate with much greater precision.”
Another UPMC first When UPMC introduced TrueBeam STx to Pittsburgh last November, it became one of the first 20 medical centers worldwide to do so. But like all technologies, TrueBeam is just a tool. Its real potential is realized through the talents of those who use it. “In the late 1980s, UPMC was the first center in the United States to use Gamma Knife® technology for radiosurgery of the brain. Since then, we’ve advanced our knowledge through research and the innovative use of technology,” notes Dr. Heron. “Our multidisciplinary team approach gives patients a highly individualized plan of treatment based on their specific needs. TrueBeam now extends the kind of care we can offer them.”
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www.UPMC.com/Today
How it works Some cancerous tumors are located in a hard-to-reach part of the body, while others “float” in an organ, or shift position when a person breathes or coughs. Just like a sharpshooter often struggles to hit a moving target, such cancers make it hard to directly aim radiation at a tumor. “But TrueBeam’s built-in imager produces sharp, ‘real-time’ 3D images that fine-tune a patient’s position during treatment, even while breathing,” explains Dr. Heron. “It’s able to track a tumor’s exact location within a millimeter.” UPMC specialists are combining TrueBeam technology with RapidArc®, another radiotherapy technique that delivers a powerful, faster, more uniform dose of radiation. Radiosurgery and other radiation treatments can now be accomplished two to eight times faster, with fewer side effects reported by patients. “These and other minimally invasive treatments are really redefining how we treat cancer,” notes Dr. Christie. “We’re no longer limited by conventional procedures.”
To learn more The TrueBeam system is housed at the Mary Hillman Jennings Radiation Oncology Center at UPMC Shadyside. UPMC provides access to a number of physicians that can refer interested patients to the center. For a list, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Take the Hit of a Concussion Seriously UPMC Mercy is focusing on athletes, parents, and coaches as the front line in building awareness In 2010, an alarming number of professional athletes from a variety of sports were diagnosed with concussion, with some top players forced to sit out important games or their entire season. When a high-profile professional athlete suffers a concussion, it makes front-page news and raises awareness of the dangers of concussion to any athlete in any sport.
It can happen to anyone “A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI),” says Cara Camiolo Reddy, MD, medical director of the brain injury program at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy, and medical advisor to the Sports Medicine Concussion Program at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. “And it can happen to anyone at any age — from elite athletes to weekend warriors, high school athletes to grade-school soccer players.” Most mild concussions go unreported or undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which estimates at least 10 to 20 percent of all individuals involved in contact sports suffer some type of concussion. But the majority of sports- and recreation-related concussions happen at the high school level. “As doctors, we’ve learned significantly more about concussions over the past 20 years,” says Dr. Camiolo. “As a result, everyone — athletes, parents, coaches, trainers, and sports fans — is more aware of the signs and symptoms of concussions than ever before.”
A heads-up for athletes No two concussions are alike and symptoms aren’t always definitive, so young athletes may just shrug them off. Peer pressure can also be especially strong motivation for a teenager to hide the symptoms of a concussion. When an athlete suffers a broken leg or a broken arm, it’s obvious the player is hurt. “But a concussion isn’t visible, so it’s hard for a player to be sidelined with an injury that no one can see,” says Dr. Camiolo. “That’s why it’s so important to provide an atmosphere where young athletes are comfortable admitting their symptoms and asking for help.”
Did You Know? • You do not have to experience loss of consciousness to have a concussion. In fact, most concussions, even ones with serious lingering effects, do not involve loss of consciousness. • Any athlete thought to have sustained a concussion should be removed from practice or the game, and a medical evaluation must be done before that athlete can return to the sport. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, referral to a concussion specialist is warranted. • At last count, 27 states had passed concussion legislation, and in several others (including Pennsylvania) legislation is pending.
Education is key The UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program has been at the forefront in educating athletes, families, coaches, trainers, and health care professionals on how to prevent, recognize, and respond to a concussion. “We take advantage of every opportunity to talk about how serious concussions are, and how devastating this injury can be,” she says.” During a recent visit, a young patient explained his injury to Dr. Camiolo saying, ‘I got hit, but thought I was okay — until my teammates told me I wasn’t acting right and said I should go sit down.’ “If young athletes are educated about concussions to the point where they are looking out for each other, it tells me that we’re getting the message across,” she adds. She also stresses that the effects of having another concussion in close proximity to the first can be very dangerous. Her advice to coaches and parents of young athletes? “When in doubt, sit them out!”
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West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27 1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
Follow UPMC on Facebook.
From horseback riding to whitewater rafting, Megan was always up for an adventure. But an unfortunate ATV accident left her with a broken back and neck, and unable to move her legs. After recovering from 17 hours of surgery, Megan elected to go to the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute for inpatient rehabilitation. It was a daily struggle, but working with world-class doctors, therapists, and state-of-the-art equipment, she worked to sit up, stand, and walk again. She’s come so far, in fact, she’s not only riding her horse again, but she is soon jumping into life’s ultimate adventure. This October, Megan will be, quite literally, walking down the aisle to be married.
To learn more about the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s seven locations, including UPMC Mercy, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/MyRehab. Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.
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NASA Space Flight Awareness Program Recognizes West Allegheny Native NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program recently recognized John Brinkman of Imperial, Pa., for his outstanding support of human spaceflight. Brinkman is a safety engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland and works for ARES Corp. Brinkman organized and led a successful ground safety review for the Communications, Navigation, and Networking re-Configurable Test Bed (CoNNeCT) project. The review was held in August 2010 at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s ( JAXA) Tsukuba Space Center in Tsukuba, Japan. With the project operating under tight schedule constraints, the review was critical to its success. Brinkman’s professional demeanor and superior performance during the process was commended by project personnel and JAXA’s ground safety panel.
NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program recognizes outstanding job performances and contributions by civil service and contract employees throughout the year. It focuses on excellence in quality and safety in support of human spaceflight. The Honoree Award is one of the highest honors presented to NASA employees for their dedication to quality work and flight safety. Recipients must have contributed beyond their normal work requirements toward achieving a particular human spaceflight program goal; contributed to a major cost savings; been instrumental in developing material that increases reliability, efficiency or performance; assisted in operational improvements; or been a key player in developing a beneficial process improvement. For information about NASA and agency programs, visit: www.nasa.gov t
West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
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Oakdale Masonic Lodge Celebrates
A Oakdale Masonic Lodge No. 669 is celebrating 100 years in Oakdale this year in style at a ceremony at the Embassy Suites in Moon Township complete with a visit from the highest-ranking Freemason in Pennsylvania, Right Worshipful Grand Thomas K. Sturgeon Master Thomas K. Sturgeon, who also happens to be a member of Oakdale Lodge. The history of the lodge began in 1911, at 10 Vincennes Avenue, when several Freemasons conceived of starting a new lodge in Oakdale. By December of that year, after petitioning the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Oakdale Lodge’s charter was granted. By 1949, membership had grown to the point that the lodge purchased a building from an Odd Fellows lodge to hold meetings. By 1973, the membership grew to 240, but a fire burned the building down. A new building was erected on the site and 32 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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opened for business in January of 1977, where it stands today in the heart of Oakdale. Today, Oakdale Lodge has 242 members, and Oakdale itself remains a stronghold of Freemasonry in Western Pennsylvania. Sturgeon, who joined the lodge 46 years ago, said being able to preside over its 100th anniversary as the leader of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania is a source of enormous pride. “I have spent my entire life in the Oakdale North Fayette area,” he said. “My family came to North Fayette in 1780. I served the residents of the area as the police chief for over 25 years. I joined Oakdale Lodge 46 years ago. For all of those reasons this is extremely important to me. I have never forgotten where I came from and have never lost my pride for the area and for my lodge.” Sturgeon, went on to say that events such as the 100th Anniversary Celebration help take the “secrecy” out of Freemasonry. “These kinds of events are becoming more public every day. During my 21st Century Masonic Renaissance, I am determined to make the fraternity more transparent so that more people can become familiar
with the good work that our fraternity does. We have done a terrible job dealing with public relations and it is high time to change that,” Sturgeon said. “We have no secrets. What someone might think is a secret can be found on the internet. Much of the internet information is incorrect, but much is accurate also. Why not put the truth out for public scrutiny and end the misinformation? That was my goal and we have succeeded to a great degree.” Sturgeon said that the resolve of Oakdale Lodge and Oakdale itself, are incredible. “Our lodge has survived a fire in 1974 which totally
destroyed our old building. We rebuilt the beautiful building that sits in the town square of Oakdale and then, in 2004, the building was flooded with over 7 feet of water. The entire interior of the building had to be gutted and rebuilt. These problems are an indication of the dedication and fortitude of the 300 members and it shows how much they care about their building and their fraternity,” he said. “[It’s that attitude] that makes me very proud to be from the West Allegheny area, proud to be a Freemason and especially proud to live the dream of being the Grand Master of the largest Masonic jurisdiction in the world.” t
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Raceway predecessor Applies for
Historic Status
For raceway Sports Arena Site
If you
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are a fan of the Imperial Raceway, it’s probably no surprise to you that much of Imperial’s amenities came from the Heidelberg Raceway and Sports Arena. What may surprise you is that the tiny Borough of Heidelberg has applied for historic status for the site. The application was denied once because it was submitted based on its history of racing. The borough researched the matter further and found that the raceway wasn’t just known for the excitement that later found itself at Imperial. The Heidelberg Raceway was the site of the final 1956 Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus under the big top, documented in national outlets like the New York Times and Life Magazine. It was a ½-mile racetrack that hosted four NASCAR races and where Richard Perry’s father, Lee Perry won his first NASCAR race. It was also home to countless boxing matches, soccer games, fairs and circuses. Now, Heidelberg Manager Joe Kauer wants Heidelberg Raceway and Sports Arena to be recognized for the history it’s provided the region since during its brief, 25-year lifespan. “We submitted for one of those roadside historical markers. The state kicked our application back saying we needed more than just four NASCAR races to declare it historical,” Kauer said. “They said, ‘What’s there of national historical significance,’ so we researched it, and it was the final act of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus under the tent.”
According to Heidelberg Borough’s application with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the track was opened on Memorial Day, 1948, and was intended to be a home for horse racing, which did not become legal until years later. In addition to the main ½mile asphalt track, it also had a ¼-mile dirt track, seating for 15,000 fans, and free parking for 8,000 cars. After its closing in 1973, the site was razed and became home to “Raceway Plaza,” which has been a commercial staple for the South Hills for decades. Home to major anchor department chains such as Hills, Ames and now Wal-Mart, the site also has a Shop ‘N Save, McDonalds and Long John Silvers. “You would never guess that all this history just happened right down the street,” Kauer said. “This marker will remind people, so people don’t just think of it as a Wal-Mart or a Shop ‘N Save. People don’t even call it Raceway Plaza anymore. It was all Heidelberg people that ran it and worked it. Ike Wright, the original owner of Wright’s Seafood Inn, built it. Ed Witzberger bought it and he was our mayor here for years.” Today, much of the Heidelberg Raceway and Sports Arena is still being utilized at the Pittsburgh Motor Speedway in Imperial. Heidelberg Raceway was ahead of its time among racing venues, with an electric scoreboard and air-conditioned press box, thanks to Witzberger’s vision. However, the impressive attributes of the race track succumbed to the political climate of the times, when after the track did not open for the 1974 season under a lease agreement, Witzberger cited the energy crises of the 1970s as cause for not
renewing the lease. And while the track lives on on numerous racing internet forums and discussion boards, it was the final circus performance that really brought about the end of an era for a lot of people in the region. Gene Czambel of Collier was one of those people. “It was a Monday night and I was 13 years old. It was very exciting. You knew they were coming to town,” he said. “It would take them a couple days to set up. They’d come in on the railroad. The elephants would walk down the street, carrying all that stuff, it was awesome. Normally, it lasted all week, but after this last performance, they just said that was it.” Czambel said he remembers lion tamers guiding lions through hoops, all kinds of acrobats and performers and, of course, the side show. “They had the side show and they had this guy, who was the tallest guy in the world. He was 8-foot, 2 inches tall and you’d pay the admission and go behind the curtain to see him,” Czambel said. “I got to shake this guy’s hand and they gave you a pamphlet telling you all about him.” Kauer said the borough will know in September whether or not the application was accepted. After that, will come a period of fundraising to raise the $2,500 for the marker.
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Houses of Worship Allegheny West Christian Church 7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071 412.788.4988 Church of Jesus Christ 57 Moore Road, Imperial, PA 15126 724.899.3935 Church of the Living Christ 220 West Allegheny Road, Imperial, Pa 15126 724.695.7188 www.cotlc.com Church of the Nazarene 507 Route 30, Imperial, PA 15126 724.695.7669 www.nazarene.org Clinton UP Church 25 Wilson Road, Clinton, PA 15026 724.695.7993 Clinton Wesleyan Church 1022 Clinton Road, Clinton, PA 15026 724.695.7076 Crossroads Methodist Church 1000 Crossroads Drive, Oakdale, PA 15071 412.494.9999 www.crossroadsumc.org Hebron Presbyterian Church 1767 Route 30, Clinton, PA 15026 724.899.2276 Noblestown United Methodist Church 7313 Noblestown Road, Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2755 Oakdale United Presbyterian Church 62 Hastings Avenue, Oakdale, Pa 15071 724.693.8950 Resurrection Lutheran Church 7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, Pa 15071 412.788.4513 St. Columbkille Church 103 Church Road, Imperial, PA 15126 724.695.7325 www.saintcolumbkilleparish.org West Ridge Christian Church 100 Gorwood Drive, Coraopolis, PA 15108 724.695.7500 www.wrcc.org
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Paul Hennemuth 38 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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AN INTERVIEW WITH:
Paul Hennemuth, Oakdale Borough Councilman Name: Paul Hennemuth Age: 54 Family: Wife: Loretta (Bartus) Hennemuth Daughters: Chelsey and Mallory Occupation: I have been employed with UPS for 22 years and currently am a Sales Training Manager with their Business Development department. Oakdale resident for: I have lived in the Oakdale area since 1968 and have actually lived in Oakdale Borough for 20 years. 1. When and why did you decide to get involved with Oakdale politics?
My decision to run for public office originated in 2007 when I became interested in running for the West Allegheny School Board. When I started exploring that option I discovered that there was also an open seat for Oakdale Borough Council. My interest to get involved was not political but more a desire to give back to the community. It is my opinion that as residents, citizens and people, we all have an obligation to give back to our community, whether that is through elected office, coaching, volunteering, or in some other capacity. Because of that reason, I found myself more interested in working for Oakdale through Council versus the School Board. I was elected and began my first term in January 2008. I was up for re-election this year and look forward to serving a second term. 2. Oakdale is unique in that it really is what people think of when they imagine “America’s Home Town.” Are there any challenges in particular to the borough because of its small size for council to tackle that people might be surprised to know?
That is a great question. We (Borough Council) work very hard to maintain that “small town” look, feel and appeal that has become somewhat of a trademark for Oakdale. Our borders actually make up less than a half square mile and we have very little
if any land or property for development. As a result, our tax base is relatively fixed while the cost of maintaining our identity as “America’s Hometown” becomes more costly to maintain. Oakdale still owns and operates its own water and sewage system, has its own police force and maintains its own fire department through support of the Oakdale VFD. Despite the rising costs, the Borough has only raised taxes one mil in I believe the last 15 years! That can be credited to Council’s emphasis on smart fiscal management. 3. What do you think the best kept secret about Oakdale is?
I think quite a few people would be surprised to learn of the number of businesses that call Oakdale home. We have a solid business community that provides a wide variety of services. Our business owners and leaders are a big part of the community and are always quick to throw their support behind community events through sponsorships, donations and personal support and involvement. I would like to invite your readers to explore the Oakdale business community to see everything we have to offer. I know you will be pleasantly surprised! 4. What’s the one thing you would change about Oakdale?
There is a great opportunity that exists to develop the vacant lots that once housed the
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Joy Dog Food factory and Tank Lining Company. We are anxious to have the owners of those properties move forward but recent economic conditions have indefinitely postponed that process. 5. Oakdale has changed vastly in the past 20 years from being the town that smells like dog food because of the Joy Factory, to a hometown with a solid business district. Was that transformation something that happened organically or has the borough been actively planning Oakdale’s growth over the years?
As I touched on earlier, Oakdale has limited opportunity for development within the boundaries of the borough. We are always sensitive to that situation and as a Council remain diligent in our efforts to maximize the potential use of any development opportunity that may present itself. 6. If that growth was planned, what kind of programs (Main Street, Elm Street) does the borough participate in and/or apply for and what can residents expect in the near future as far as changes/upgrades?
As with any small Borough or municipality like Oakdale, the federal and state Community Development Grant programs are a critical piece when it comes to finding funds for development and improvements. As we discussed in your last issue, grants made it possible for us to convert an empty lot in the center of town to a beautiful park that is now enjoyed every day by our residents and visitors. We are still actively pursuing ways to obtain funds to develop the small parcel of land at the entrance to the Oakdale Community Park.
West Allegheny | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
Community Day North Fayette Township
Fun And Diverse Attractions For Everyone in The Family
Photos by Kathleen Rudolph
34 Acres of fun for families and residents
High School Hockey Boosters gave fans a chance to dunk a player for donations and t-shirts and caps were on sale for The West Allegheny High School Football Boosters. Some of the remaining booths included North Fayette Senior Citizens, Western Allegheny Community Library, games, food and craft vendors. “In January we started to ‘brainstorm’ and then plan Community Day,” said Bob Brozovich, North Fayette Township Parks and Recreation Director. “We tried to make things bigger this year. We added more shuttle buses so that attendees could arrive safely and in a timely manner. We also have more food vendors. Because the community is so supportive, the event has been able to grow.”
featuring giant inflatables, bouncers, a kid’s train, live entertainment from Kevin the Juggler and The Clarks were just some of the attractions held at North Fayette Community Day in the new Donaldson Park. Booths containing North Fayette Community Groups including P.A.L.S., (Providing Assistance, Love and Support to Special Needs Citizens), and Refuse to Be A Victim, a Crime Prevention Seminar by Cpl. Michael Hayes of the North Fayette Police Department, provided residents with important information and ways to get involved in their community. West Allegheny
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To learn more about North Fayette Community Day, or other upcoming events visit their website at http://www.north-fayette.com.
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You’ll be Surprised at the Outcome
ith the advent of travel sites on the internet, the way travelers plan their trips has changed in more ways than one. So with all of the online sites out there to choose from, you would think that finding a real, flesh and blood travel agent would be near impossible these days. However, you would be very wrong. Live travel agents are still out there making quite a good living off of all the shortcomings of the DIY websites. First off, if you enjoy taking a cruise, going to an actual travel agent can save you a lot of headaches. Cruises entail planning multiple aspects of one trips – everything from airfare to the port of departure, to which stateroom has the best view, to whether you plan on the paragliding excursion or the one that tours the Mayan ruins. All of those aspects can be easily handled by a travel agent for you, saving you time and money. Think you can outbid a travel agent for discount airfare? Think again. You may like the appeal of naming your own fare on a website, but keep in mind that even the giants of internet travel booking still have a limited pool of airlines to pick from in order to stay profitable. Travel agents don’t. A travel agent can work with smaller or foreign carriers to find you a discount, and some have access to private, reduced fares that can be well worth the cost of the agent’s fees. Looking for more than just a pair of round-trip tickets? Sometimes, travelers have more than one destination in more than one country. Some agents specialize in these global itineraries and can save you the hassle of trying to plot out a complicated route for your trip. What’s more, if you’re going somewhere that has a warning for Americans issued by the state
department, is known for being difficult for tourists, or simply off the typical American itinerary, your travel agent can make recommendations to help you navigate the terrain, both figuratively and literally. Special Needs? A Travel Agent Will Accommodate Them… Whether you’re simply a senior citizen, or you happen to be looking for an Asian-language safari in the Sahara, travel agents know more about special needs and requests than any website out there. They can help with alternative lifestyle requests just as easily as finding a seat on a tour bus for someone with a disability. Your travel agent most likely has heard it all when it comes to meeting the specific needs of travelers, so ask them about your needs today! What if I’m really stuck? Travel agents can do more than simply rebook your flight if it’s cancelled. Sometimes, agents can assist in getting you the medical help you need, or some cash to cover your wallet being stolen. A dot-com can’t and won’t do that for their customers. The peace of mind alone can be worth the agent’s fees. What if I’m not on the internet? Believe it or not, many people still don’t have – or want – access to the internet. Or, they may have access, but don’t feel comfortable giving out their credit card numbers online. That’s totally understandable, and another reason why having a courteous travel agent smiling back at you can be the difference between getting sunburned, or just getting burned.
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Oakdale
Findlay Township Meetings
Council
Board of Supervisors
Huck Gamble, President 1 Highland Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9906
Caucus Meeting - 1st Thursday each month, 7 p.m. 1271 Route 30 P.O. Box W Clinton, PA 15026 Phone: 724.695.0500 Fax: 724.695.1700
Regular Meeting - 2nd Wednesday each month, 7 p.m.
Administration
Workshop Meeting - 4th Thursday each month, 7 p.m.
Mayor
Public Safety Findlay Township Police Department
Administration Township Manager Gary Klingman 724.695.0500 x244 gklingman@findlaytwp.org
Asst. Township Manager/Planning Administrator Christopher Caruso 724.695.0500 x248 ccaruso@findlaytwp.org
1271 Route #30, Clinton, Pennsylvania 15026 Emergency Number: 911 or 724.695.7777 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.1300
Public Works
Imperial Volunteer Fire Department
Real Estate Tax Collector
Barbara Coates 724.695.0521 bcoates@findlaytwp.org
115 Main Street Imperial, PA 15126 Emergency Number: 911 or 724.695.7777 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.8845 staff@imperialvfd.org
Real Estate Tax Collector
Valley Ambulance Authority
Wage/LST Tax Collector
3550 University Boulevard Moon Township, PA 15108 911 or 412.262.2040
Dorothy McCullough 724.695.2995
Ross Rohbeck, 405 Clinton Avenue Ext. Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.8382 Bob Patterson 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.9740 Fax: 724.693.0100 Donna Swider P.O. Box 222 Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9889
Borough Secretary Kelly Rohbeck 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.9740 Fax: 724.693.0100 rohbeck@oakdaleborough.com
Paul Hennemuth, Vice President 110 Jade Drive Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9628 Keith Merlino, Councilman 16 Vincennes Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2844 Tom Potts, Councilman 305 Clinton Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 Bud Sturgeon, Councilman 4050 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2748
Public Safety - 911 Oakdale P.D. 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9639 724.693.0740 (Fax) Chief Dr. James J. Lauria
Oakdale Hose Company 6111 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Station: 724.693.9408 Fax: 724.693.0742
North Fayette
400 North Branch Rd Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 412.788.4888 or 724.693.9601 Fax: 724.693.8132
Administration Township Manager Mr. Robert T. Grimm rgrimm@north-fayette.com
Parks & Recreation Director Bob Brozovich rbrozovich@north-fayette.com 724.693.3118; 412.788.4888, ext. 118
Earned Income Tax Collection and Emergency & Municipal Services Tax
Public Safety
Mr. Tom Falcioni 724.693.9190
400 North Branch Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.787.8900 Chief: Jeffrey Falconer
Board of Supervisors Mr. Jim Morosetti, Chairman Mr. John Meyers, ViceChairman Mr. J. R. Mangan, Member The Supervisors hold a Workshop meeting the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m., a General Supervisors meeting the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m., and a Payroll Meeting the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Township Municipal Building.
Real Estate Tax Collection Mr. Tom Falcioni 724.693.9366 44 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
North Fayette P.D.
North Fayette Twp. Volunteer Fire Dept. Station 1 Business Office 7678 Stuebenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071-9300 Office: 412.787.2883 Station 2 8036 Steubenville Pike Imperial, PA 15126 Office: 724.695.3727
NorthWest EMS Station 195 West Allegheny North Fayette Municipal Complex 400 North Branch Road North Fayette, PA Non-Emergency 412.331.2600
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
West Allegheny School District Mailing Address: P.O. Box 55 Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3422
Administration Superintendent Dr. John DiSanti jdisanti@westasd.org 724.695.5211
Asst. Supt. Curriculum & Instruction Dr. Chris Assetta cassetta@westasd.org 724.695.5204
Asst. Supt. Personnel & Student Services Dr. William Englert, Jr. wenglert@westasd.org 724.695.5216
Business Manager George Safin gsafin@westasd.org 724.695.5212
Coordinator of Pupil Services Elaine Fitzgerald EFitzgerald@westasd.org 724.695.5221
Communications Coordinator Carol Bonnar cbonnar@westasd.org 724.695.5274
School Board Debbie Mirich (president) Patrick Konieczny (vice president) Dr. Anne Bolind Ed Faux Tracy Kosis Robert Ostrander Ronald Pasic Eugene Sciulli John Scott
Schools West Allegheny High School 205 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.7368 Fax: 724.695.8690 Principal: Daniel Smith
West Allegheny Middle School 207 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.8979 Fax: 724.695.8211 Principal: Richard Smith
Donaldson Elementary School 600 Donaldson Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.213.1010 Fax: 724.213.1002 Principal: Patricia Nolan
McKee Elementary School 1501 Oakdale Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.8451 Fax: 724.693.0924 Principal: Thomas Orr
Wilson Elementary School 100 Bruno Lane Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3300 Fax: 724.695.0610 Principal: Kathleen Sites
FRICK MUSEUM WORKSHOP EXPOSES STUDENTS TO FRENCH CULTURE On Wednesday, October 5, 2011, West Allegheny High School students in Shelley Crannell’s French 1 and 2 classes will attended an all-day workshop at the Frick Museum entitled “Joie de Vivre,” ( Joy for Life) to explore various aspects of the French culture, including 18th-century art, the craft of "ormelure," French furniture, and dance, as well as the history of the French Revolution. Donning facsimile period costumes, they reenacted scenes of peasant and court life to demonstrate the socioeconomic factors leading to the French Revolution. These drama activities were videotaped for the students to view back in their classroom.
WEST ALLEGHENY 2010-2011 YEARBOOKS AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 16 The West Allegheny High School yearbook staff will have the 2010-2011 Alleghenian yearbooks available for pickup on Friday, September 16, 2011, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for graduates from the Class of 2011 in the high school lobby outside the auditorium and from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Those graduates who ordered and paid for a yearbook or a member of their family may pick it up. All other students may pick up their yearbooks during their lunch period that same day. There will be additional yearbooks for sale for $70. Checks should be made payable to West Allegheny High School Yearbook. For information contact Lisa Monzo, yearbook staff advisor, at 724-695-7368 x3113 or lmonzo@westasd.org.
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