in-west-allegheny-summer by IN Community Magazines

SUMMER 2012

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Evening of Music

120 over 80.

What’s it worth to U?

Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan. Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money. That’s because HealthyU offers financial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a flu shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.

upmchealthyu.com

S TA FF F STAF PUBL ISHER

Wayne Dollard RE GIONAL EDITORS

Pamela Palongue [North] p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com Mark Berton [South] mark@incommunitymagazines.com OF F ICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PL ACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUNICIPAL CONTENT COORDINATOR

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

W RIT E RS

John Barrera Jonathan Barnes Jennifer Brozak Matt Fascetti Tracey Fedkoe Mike Ference Jacob Flannick Britt Fresa Heather Holtschlage Aimee Nicolia

Nick Keppler Chelsea Kozera Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath JoAnne Nasser Melanie Paulick Gina Sallinger Judith Schardt

Looking forward to seeing some whitewalls and chrome in the fall issue!

PHOT OGRAPHERS

Mark Fainstein Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer

Len Pancoast Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVE RTISING SALES MANAGERS

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Have a great summer! Wayne Dollard, Publisher

Tamara Myers

ADVE RTISING SALES

Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graf Jason Huffman Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri

FROM THE PUBLISHER Welcome to the summer issue of IN West Allegheny magazine. This year, it seems summer started in early March. However, the warm days have given people a reason to get outside early and often. Bulbs are blooming earlier and joggers are out in force. So I hope you’ve had a chance to get out there and take advantage of the early summer, and while you’re at it, let us know what you’re up to. We try to feature as much local content as we can in each issue and hope that you enjoy that content. Now, we want to get even more local and ask you directly for your stories in each issue. These features don’t have to be about you or someone you know doing something extraordinary like climbing Mt. Everest or swimming the English Channel. We want to know what makes our readers tick. It could be that you’ve always wanted a classic Thunderbird and have been restoring one for the past few years. We’d like to see it, and I’m sure others would too. So let’s start off with that, since we’re coming into car cruise season: If you or someone you know has a pretty interesting restoration project going on in their garage, let us know! Email our editor, Mark Berton, at mark@incommunitymagazines.com or call us at 724.942.0940. We’ll be happy to hear your story and may even send one of our photographers out to capture your work for the next issue. Keep in mind, the project doesn’t necessarily need to be current – if you’ve been cruising in your restoration project for some time now, that’s okay, too. But we’d like to know what you did at the nuts and bolts level to get your baby roadworthy. If you’re just not sure one way or the other if you think you have a good story, call Mark and he’ll be happy to help you out!

Aimee Nicolia Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti son Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Alfaras

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without hout written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2012. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releasess to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www. incommunitymagazines.com

Fall 22 Fall content contentdeadline: deadline:July 8/9/12

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying ng it.

Do you have a classic car that you’ve restored? If so, we’d like to hear about it. Email your name and contact information to mark@incommunitymagazines.com.

You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins. Should I Have My Veins Evaluated?

Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST: While finishing charts at the end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staff answer questions for a patient on the phone. The questions asked were very important as were the answers that were given. Here are some examples:

What is Phlebology?

Phlebology is the branch of medicine that deals with veins and the disease of veins. Two organizations dedicated to the advancement of this field are The American College of Phlebology and the American Venous Forum.

Why should I see a boardcertified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veins

When it comes to any aspect of your health care, it is important to be proactive in the choice and research of who will become medically responsible for your evaluation and treatment. Though venous disease is not always a visible ailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to more serious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certified phlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision. Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician who has taken the extra step of becoming specialized in the treatment of venous disease. Not only is the physician often a member of organizations such as the American College of Phlebology (ACP) and the American Venous Forum (AVF) but they have met additional requirements set by the certifying board. After meeting these requirements, he or she must then pass a certifying exam allowing the physician to identify him or herself as board-certified.

Is membership the same as board certification?

This question is particularly important as it defines the specialty of a phlebologist. While a physician may be a member of many different organizations, these organizations only require an interest in the field for joining. Thus membership is unlike board certification where qualification is determined through training and testing. Here’s how the ACP defines its board certification: “The establishment of a Board Certification Exam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology and those providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills and experience to provide quality care to phlebology patients.”

I had a free screening at a health fair and was told that I don't have venous disease, but I still have aching, pain and discoloration at the ankles. What should I do?

While free screenings can be informative, remember that this is just a brief glance into a patient's venous system. A complete venous exam and venous mapping by a boardcertified phlebologist is best to determine if a patient has venous disease. Since a proper venous ultrasound is such an integral part of this evaluation, the American College of Phlebology has set requirements for it that include the following: • A venous ultrasound should be ordered by a physician. • A lower extremity ultrasound should study the entire leg, from ankle to groin. Failure to identify and treat all sources of reflux may result in outright treatment failure. • Evaluation of the venous system should be performed with the patient in the upright position. Sitting or lying down are inappropriate for the detection of reflux or the measurement of vein diameters. • A ve nous ultrasound should be performed by a trained physician or a registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT) and then interpreted by a physician.

If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office?

Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘ free’ because patients are often not meeting with a physician, a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner, so this visit cannot be billed to insurance. However, most insurances allow for a second opinion. If you have any questions about the second opinion being covered, contact member services on the back of your insurance card.

This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.

724-934-VEIN (8346)

Terrance R. Krysinski, MD General Surgeon Board Certified Phlebologist Vein Institute of Pittsburgh 724.934.VEIN (8346)

INSIDE

IN West Allegheny is a non-partisan 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.

IN West Allegheny | SUMMER 2012 |

FEATURES

Hall of Fame Inductees Honored | 25 WA Boys Soccer Group Helps Rebuild in New Orleans .............. | 30 Travel: Honeymoon Dreaming .... | 36 Fire Safety ....................................... | 38 ON THE COVER

The West Hills Symphonic Band teamed up with the South Fayette Band for an evening of music to help raise money for the South Fayette Band Alumni Association. See story on page 12. Photo by Gary Yon.

COMMUNITY INTERESTS

West Allegheny School District News ...................................... | 4 Findlay Township Wins Supporter of Development Award ............................................................ | 11 Musicians Orchestrate An Evening of Music ........................ | 12 Blood Drive Dedicated in Honor of Gabby Holtz ................ | 15 Oakdale News Briefs ................................................................. | 15 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News ....................................... | 17 Pittsburgh Technical Institute ................................................ | 33 Acorn Club of Oakdale Holding Golf Fundraiser ................ | 28 Parkway West .............................................................................. | 35

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

 WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

WEST ALLEGHENY MIDDLE SCHOOL TAKES BRONZE AT SCIENCE BOWL

The West Allegheny Middle School Horizons team consisting of Angela Martelli, SarahSteward, Jarod Seibel, and Brennon Grubb took third place at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Carnegie Science Bowl. This is the second consecutive year that West Allegheny Middle School has placed in the Top Three. Participating were 40 teams comprised of over 160 students from 12 schools including Mt. Lebanon, Moon, Carlynton, Baldwin and others from Allegheny County. The competition consisted of four interactive events: Drop It, It’s All in the Details, Minute to Win It, and Pop Fly. For Drop It, the teams created a package to hold an egg and keep it from breaking when dropped 20 feet. It’s All in the Details was a scavenger hunt. Students were given a picture of a small portion of an exhibit and had to find its location, identify it, and write about its significance. The goal of Minute to Win It was to complete four different assigned challenges each within one minute. To compete in Pop Fly, the students were required to build a catapult-type structure to launch a ping pong ball.

The West Allegheny Middle School team of Angela Martelli, Sarah Steward, Jarod Seibel, and Brennon Grubb took third place at the 2012 AIU Science Bowl.

Also participating in the event, which was coordinated by middle school Horizons teacher Joe Villani, were Sarah Behr, Hannah Salvucci, Sai Bhatte, Christina Sible, Yash Lahoti, Garrett Powell, Max BruceRudge, Billy Robertson, Moira Gibson, Jackie Patton, Megan Ye, and Anden Acitelli.

WEST ALLEGHENY EIGHTH GRADER WINS

GEOGRAPHY BEE

West Allegheny Middle School eighth-grade student Hunter Evans received a National Geographic Society tee shirt, a championship trophy, an award ribbon, and a certificate from the National Geographic Society for top honors as the school champion in the Geography Bee held January 9-11. This year’s second and third place finishers, Wade Schriner, and Moira Gibson, respectively, each received National Geographic Society tee shirts and ribbons. Hunter’s victory earned him the right to take a qualifying exam to compete at the state level in Harrisburg this spring. State winners advance to the national level competition in a nationally televised contest hosted by Alex Trebec of “Jeopardy.” National champions win a $25,000 college scholarship. Along with Hunter, Wade, and Moira, the following seven other finalists were awarded National Geographic Society tee shirts: Janghyun Cho, Nate Graziani, Felicia Mackey, Billy Robertson, Noah Trotter, Jessica Wasek, and Reilly Zimmerman. Middle school sixth grade social studies teachers Nancy Watkins and Valerie Meehan coordinated the competition.

Above: West Allegheny Middle School 8th-grade student Hunter Evans took top honors in the school’s Geography Bee. Left: The finalists in the West Allegheny Middle School Geography Bee held on January 10-12, 2012, were (sitting) Janghyun Cho, Billy Robertson, Reilly Zimmerman, Jessica Wasek, (standing) Hunter Evans (champion), Wade Schriner (second place), Nate Graziani, Noah Troter, and Moira Gibson (third place). Missing is Felicia Mackey. 4 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

 West Allegheny gold program develops girls as leaders Eighth grade girls at West Allegheny Middle School participated in a Girls Overnight Leadership Development (GOLD) program at the school in March. The purpose of the event was to promote self-esteem, develop leadership qualities, and address the various challenges that teen girls face as they leave middle school and prepare for high school. West Allegheny seniors Amanda Gannon and Christine Chiodo helped to coordinate the overnight event. The following ten high school seniors volunteered to assist with various details both before and during the program: Tiffany Atkins, Michelle Bartha, Brittany Eakin, Ashley Gerhart, Emily Hough, Anna Mianzo, Ashley Niznik, Erin Rodgers, Kaci Vandergrift, and Rebecca Will. This year’s main sponsor is The West Allegheny Foundation. The program featured Alicia Kozakiewicz, a local victim of an Internet predator, who now works with schools, local police

West Allegheny seniors (kneeling) Michelle Bartha, Ashley Niznik, Ashley Gerhart, Anna Mianzo, Rebecca Will, (standing) Brittany Eakin, Erin Rodgers, Christine Chiodo, Amanda Gannon, Emily Hough, Tiffany Atkins, and Kaci Vandergrift helped coordinate the Girls Only Leadership Development (GOLD) program for middle school eighth grade girls on March 23, 2012.

departments, and the FBI to promote Internet safety. Kozakiewicz has appeared on the “Oprah” show, PBS, and the Arts and Entertainment Biography Channel. Other guests included Stacie Scheel from the Women’s Shelter of Beaver County and Sgt. Shelly Smith of the North Fayette Township Police Department. Scheel’s discussion addressed the topic of cultivating healthy relationships, while Smith addressed the safety concerns of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter along with cyber-bullying and Internet safety.

Middle school math teacher Dana Burrows gave a presentation on the media’s negative influence on body image and self-esteem. Additional sessions throughout the night included craft activities, healthy snack options, self-defense, and a fashion show presented by the high school senior girls. Burrows and middle school counselor Melissa MacNeil served as the staff advisors for the event. Additional staff support is provided by the middle school female faculty.

WEST ALLEGHENY SENIOR WINS DISTRICT FORENSICS AWARD West Allegheny High School senior Josi Sinagoga won the National Forensics League (NFL) District Student of the Year Award at the Catholic Forensics League National Qualifiers held in March. Each year this award is given to a deserving graduating senior NFL member. As such, Josi is eligible for National Student of the Year, who will become a spokesperson for the activity of debate and speech to raise awareness of its benefits for young people. According to the NFL, this program annually rewards students whose attitude transcends trophies and accolades; those who characterize traits of humility, integrity, leadership, respect and service touted by our Code of Honor. To be eligible for the award, nominees must be NFL members in their senior year of high school, demonstrate strong academic standards, actively engage their community through service and action, and exhibit dedication to forensics and commitment to the values of the NFL. West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

 WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

WEST ALLEGHENY ICE HOCKEY TEAM MAKES HISTORY – CAPTURES SCHOOL’S FIRST CHAMPIONSHIP It has been a long time coming. “We wanted to win this for every West Allegheny player who ever wore the West A sweater, like my brother and Kumpf’s (goalie, Jason Kumpfmiller) brother, for our school district, and our community,” said the team’s captain, Jared DiSanti. “We knew Erie would be tough. They beat Chartiers Valley and Latrobe, and they beat us 5-0 the last time we played them; but we all believed that this time it would be different,” DiSanti said. It turned out that he was right. The AA Title game was a thriller. In the early stages, Erie Prep was the better team, dominating play and scoring first. DiSanti changed the game’s momentum when he backhanded the puck into the upper part of the net on a rebound chance. The power play goal notched the score at one. West Allegheny would take the lead when Jon

School Briefs

Levitt buried the puck off of a nifty pass from DiSanti right before the end of the first period. The play was even at the beginning of the second period until Erie took advantage of another breakdown on the Indians’ power play, which allowed the Ramblers to tie the game at 2. West A, however, would answer quickly when Mason Ervin took a perfect pass from DiSanti and drove it home giving the Indians a 3-2 lead. Erie Prep, however, fought back to tie the game on a goal at 5:08. The season would be decided in overtime… sudden death or sudden victory depending on which color you wore. A long six-month season, not to mention hours of preparation in the weight room and miles on the track, would come down to one shot or one bounce of the

v West Allegheny High School senior Samantha Shepherd was awarded an Honorable Mention in the Pittsburgh Technical Institute Visions and Voices Competition in two separate categories, Fine Art 2D and Fine Art 3D on February 17.

v KDKA-TV reporter Dave Crawley visited Donaldson Elementary School on March 13 to cover a concluding session of the Donaldson Discovers science program involving a mini-robot competition. The four-week program was cosponsored by the Donaldson PTA and Pittsburgh Technical Institute. The broadcast of Crawley’s visit, including student interviews, aired during Channel 2’s evening news show on March 14. v The West Allegheny High School Girls’ Swimming and Diving Team claimed its second consecutive WPIAL Class AA Championship Title at the WPIAL finals held on March 2-3, 2012, in Trees Hall at the University of Pittsburgh. The following swimmers took first place WPIAL medals and qualified for state competition: Ashley Niznik in the 100-yard freestyle, the team of Kara Kaulius, Ashley Niznik, Emily Pia, and Casey Tokarski in the 400-yard freestyle relay; and the team of Amanda Gannon, Ashley Niznik, Emily Pia, and Nadiya Wahl in the medley relay. Other PIAA qualifiers included Sydney Mangis, and Kiera Acitelli. Dominique Gerlach was the alternate for relays. West Allegheny finished fourth at the PIAA swimming and diving finals on March 16 and 17, at Bucknell University. 6 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

puck. West A played well in overtime and had more than one opportunity to close the deal. Prep’s goalie Trey Brown kept his team in the game until 5:58 of the overtime. That’s when Levitt shoveled a pass to Matt Grebosky who let go with a powerful wrist shot. The red light went on and the horn sounded as a jubilant West A team stormed their All-Star goalie Jason Kumpfmiller in celebration. The large West Allegheny contingent at the Consol Energy Center joined the celebration as their team skated victoriously with the Penguin Cup held high. What a terrific season the West A’s Boys of Winter gave to their fans.

v At the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference in Hershey, Pennsylvania, April 15-18, 2012, six West Allegheny High School students qualified for the FBLA National Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas in June 2012. This is the fourth consecutive year the West Allegheny Chapter of FBLA has had members qualify to represent the state of Pennsylvania at the national level. National qualifiers are those who place either first or second at the state level. West Allegheny’s first-place finishers included the marketing team consisting of seniors Josie Sinagoga, Dave Kline, and Kristen Rohm. Taking second place in business ethics were the team of Aubrey Leasure and Vishmayaa Saravanan, both sophomores, and in desktop application programming, junior Joseph Sible. Joseph also placed in four open competitive event tests: first place in HTML, second place in digital tools, fourth place in operating systems, and fourth place in Internet. Pam Volakis and Julie McGough are the FBLA staff advisors. v West Allegheny Middle School seventh grade student Maxwell Bruce-Rudge took first place in the school’s Spelling Bee in February for the second consecutive year. As the school winner, Maxwell represented West Allegheny Middle School at the Allegheny County Spelling Bee on March 17 held at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, UPMC. Sixth grader Anden Acitelli was the runner up, and eighth grade student Logan Williamson took third place. All middle school students took a spelling test in their English classes to qualify for the spelling bee. Middle school teachers Anita Miller and Katie Troup organized the event with help from Leda Niccolai.

spel ling bee

 West Allegheny Students Capture 33 Awards In Scholastic Art Competition

WEST ALLEGHENY, INDUSTRIAL SCIENTIFIC CO. SPONSOR ENGINEERING COMPETITION West Allegheny High School hosted the West Allegheny/Industrial Scientific Co. Design Challenge February 23, as part of National Engineers Week. The Design Challenge is an annual event in which high school students receive a design brief and a bag of materials and must solve an engineering problem in a fixed amount of time. The competition is designed to both challenge and encourage students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Students are required to present and demonstrate their solutions to an outside panel of engineers. Twelve teams of six students each who are currently enrolled in engineering courses vied for four different awards: Best Design, Best Teamwork, Best Presentation and Best Overall Solution. Mark Owens of Industrial Scientific and Martin Lestander of West Allegheny conducted the competition, and local engineers served as judges for the event. West Allegheny High School initiated engineering classes three years ago by adding PLTW (Project Lead the Way) courses Intro to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Digital Electronics, Biotechnical Engineering and Civil Engineering to its course offerings. Martin Lestander and Ron Neurohr, engineering and technology education teacher, are the instructors for these courses. This is the second year in Western Pennsylvania the competition was offered. PLTW is the nation’s leading provider of rigorous and innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education curricular programs used in middle and high schools across the U.S. The hands-on, project-based engineering courses for high schools and middle schools and biomedical sciences courses for high schools engage students on multiple levels, expose them to areas of study that they typically do not pursue, and provide them with a foundation and proven path to college and career success.

GOLD KEY AWARDS

WEST ALLEGHENY STUDENTS CELEBRATE READ ACROSS AMERICA The West Allegheny School District participated in the national celebration, Read Across America, during the week of February 27 through March 3, 2012. On Monday, February 27th, a host of fun and educational classroom activities, including games, puzzles, artwork, and learning exercises--Dr. Seuss style--emphasized the importance of reading at the elementary schools. The Food Services Department served green eggs and ham for lunch on March 1, and students and staff dressed in Dr. Seuss attire throughout the week. A “Seussville Week” flyer detailed daily themes, like “Horton Hatches the

In the 2012 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards program, 25 West Allegheny students in grades nine through 12 won a total of 33 awards in the visual art and photography categories. Four students captured Gold Key Awards: Kristin Faux, India Price, Samantha Shepherd, and Nichole Snatchko. Samantha and Nicole were actually multiple-award winners. Besides their Gold Keys, Samantha also received three Honorable Mentions (one for her portfolio) and Nicole took the American Visions Award and an Honorable Mention. Among the Silver Key Award winners were Andrew Becker, Fantasia Cindrich, Kara Kaulius, Brad LaRue, Alexandria Marshall, Colleen Wade, and Kelly Wiesner. Colleen also received an Honorable Mention while Rachel Herman and Zachery Salek each took two Honorable Mentions. Other recipients of Honorable Mentions were Aubrey Ayres, Sydney Chromack, Amanda Dremsek, Alec Grant, Allie Hamilton, Danyah Hasan, Amanda Holl (portfolio), Lauren Kirkpatrick, Jake McCallister, Javier Ojeda, Emma Skipper, and Sarah Smith. High School art teachers Carol DeWitt and Mike Short and video production and digital photography teacher Mike Shaffer coordinated participation by 58 students in the visual arts, photography, digital art, film, animation, and poetry categories. All artwork earning gold keys, silver keys, and honorable mentions will be on display from February 4 to February 22, at LaRoche College. West Allegheny art students will have an opportunity to view the Scholastic Arts exhibit at LaRoche and then travel to the Andy Warhol Museum for a guided tour on February 14, 2012. Artwork selected for Gold Key Awards is forwarded to the national level of judging. These award-winners will be displayed in Washington, D.C. with over 500 entries from 19 school districts.

Egg” Day. The elementary librarians sponsored the DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) program each day during the week. Festivities concluded on Saturday, March 3, with a children’s program of arts, crafts, face painting, and photographs with the Cat in the Hat at the Mall at Robinson. Cookies were be provided by the West Allegheny Food Service Department. The Read Across America celebration was a collaborative effort including the West Allegheny Education Association (WAEA), the West Allegheny School District, and the West Allegheny Education Support Professionals Association (WAESPA).

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

 WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

STUDENT AND STAFF

Achievements FORENSICS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP West Allegheny High School senior Brad Fratangelo placed sixth in the state in Congress at the Forensics State Championships held at Susquehanna University in March. Senior Josi Sinagoga advanced to Semifinals in Impromptu, and senior Kristen Rohm qualified for Quarterfinals in Radio Production. Mike Shaffer is the Forensics coach.

“DIVERSITY MEANS” WINNER Donaldson third-grade student Gabriel Trotter was named a first place Pennsylvania State winner for his entry in the National PTA’s 2011-12 Reflections program, “Diversity Means.” He and his family are invited to an Awards Breakfast and Ceremony during the Pennsylvania State PTA Annual Convention April 22 at the Crowne Plaza Pittsburgh International Airport, Coraopolis. First-place state winners advanced to the national level of judging. Winners of the National Reflections Competition will be notified in May. The contest was sponsored by the Donaldson Elementary PTA.

BATTLE OF THE BOOKS TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS On March 27, the elementary libraries hosted the third annual Battle of the Books tournament, in which 24 teams competed. After 50 initial questions and two tie-breaking questions, the tournament champions were crowned. The first-place team The Fantastic Five! consisted of

8 724.942.0940 to advertise

Casey Bachowski, Kylie Laughery, Loren Perry, Christina Prologo, and Sydney Williams, all from Donaldson. Second place went to the Seriously Spontaneous Stars from Wilson: Nick Faulk, Eve Vogt, Alex Berhosky, and Renae Roscart. The topscoring team from McKee was The Fairy Tale Freaks, which included Victoria Beuchat, Juliana Dominick, Sydney Gatchell, Isabella Merlino, and Carlee Monaghan. The competition was coordinated by the elementary librarians Nancy Howell, Denise Medwick, and Beth Schultz.

MATH 24 TOP SCORERS In the Math 24 building-level competitions held at Donaldson, McKee, and Wilson over the last several months, the following top scorers emerged as semifinalists to qualify for the championship tournament held March 28: Jessica Fatigatti, Ava Meier, Alexander Morrison, and Keilanni Hernandez-Rivera from Donaldson; Jonathan Abbott, Noah Turner, Britney Wilson, and Bryce Zaboroski from Wilson; and Cole Lanni, Kennedy Reed, McKenzie Zeigler, and Zac Ziolkowski, from McKee. The winners were Cole Lanni (first place), Kennedy Reed (second place), and Zac Ziolkowski (third place). Elementary Horizons teachers Ginny Belko, Rob Dowd, and Beth Koraido coordinated the program.

“PURPLE UP FOR MILITARY KIDS” McKee Elementary students and staff participated in the national event “Purple Up for Military Kids” April 12 — a day designated to recognize the children of families who have members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Everyone was invited to wear purple as a visible show of support, not only for the military personnel on active duty but for the children in their families at home as well. The color purple was chosen to symbolize all branches of the military as it is the combination of Army green, Coast Guard

West Allegheny

blue, Air Force blue, Marine red, and Navy blue. Class photos were taken and copies sent home with the students of military families. A large-group photo of the entire school wearing purple will be posted on the Operation Military Kids website for military youth and their families from across the state to see. McKee fourth grade teacher Deb Stockhausen coordinated the day’s events.

HOCKEY TEAM FIRST TIME WINNERS! The West Allegheny Varsity Ice Hockey team won its first-ever Pittsburgh Interscholastic Hockey League Class AA Penguins Cup Championship March 24 at the Consol Energy Center with a 4-3 victory over Erie Cathedral Prep in overtime. The championship team included Christopher Allison, Taran Beckett, James Bing, Patrick Coburn, Jared DiSanti, Jacob Druga, Bailey Foy, Grant Gerstner, Bret Grady, Matthew Grebosky, Mason Ervin, Zachary Hayes, Christopher Hughes, Paul Hughes, Sam Kelsey, Jason Kumpfmiller, Jonathan Levitt, Jacob Linsenbigler, Joshua Linsenbigler, Max Prokopovich, Christian Thurner, Head Coach Timon Veach, Assistant Coaches Jacob Luthi, Sean Hart, and Michael Kennedy, and Manager Ray Gaunt.

WINNER’S RAIN GARDENS SIGNS TO BE INSTALLED The following ten Donaldson Elementary fifth-grade students had their drawings of rain gardens selected by North Fayette Township for use on signs in Donaldson Park: Casey Bachowski, Lexi Fleet, Emily Fullard, Noah Kumpfmiller, Danielle Miller, Loren Perry, Kacey Pristas, Stacia Shaytar, Danielle Telles, and Jaide Travis. Last fall the students worked on the signs during art classes under the supervision of Claire March, Donaldson and McKee art teacher. The signs are being installed in the park this spring.

ESL TEACHER ON TRACK FOR DOCTORATE West Allegheny elementary ESL (English-as-a-Second-Language) teacher Erin Dierker has completed the requirements for

 a doctorate in the Instructional Leadership and Management program at Robert Morris University. The final step was the successful defense of her dissertation entitled "A Model for Summer Programs to Address the Needs of English Language Learners in Pennsylvania Public Schools" on March 28.

ALUMNI NEW INDUCTEE FOR SPORTS HALL OF FAME West Allegheny High School science teacher James Hamilton was selected as one of the initial seven athletes to be inducted into West Allegheny’s New Sports

Hall of Fame A West Allegheny graduate, Hamilton was chosen for his accomplishments as both a coach and a distance runner. Inductees will be honored at a banquet in May with a plaque and a certificate. A permanent plaque recognizing the honorees will be displayed in a public location yet to be determined.

ART TEACHER LEADS TALK ON POLICY REPORT Debbie Turici, Donaldson and Wilson art teacher, attended the Arts and Education Initiative (AEI) Forum in Harrisburg on March

SEVENTH GRADE POET RECOGNIZED AT PITTSBURGH PIRATES BASEBALL GAME West Allegheny Middle School seventh-grade student Ali Perry was selected as a third place winner in the seventh- and eighth-grade category for a poem she entered in the Pittsburgh Pirates Jackie Robinson Essay and Poetry Contest. She was recognized at PNC Park in a special on-field pregame ceremony at the April Pirates baseball game. Her poem, which focused on the character, perseverance, and courage of Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in 1947 as Major League Baseball’s first black American player, was chosen from over 2,700 entries submitted. Third place winners received four complimentary tickets to the April 20 game along with autographed items. They also participated in a pregame awards banquet with Pirates celebrities and won a variety of prizes, including a Pirates Promotional Package and a complimentary tour of Highmark’s Legacy Square at PNC Park. Middle School teacher Katie Troup, who encouraged her students to enter the contest — which was held as part of the observance of February as Black History Month — also received two complimentary tickets to the April 20 game. POEM: COURAGE Courage is ignoring the comments being hurled from the stands Courage is standing your ground even though people tell you it is not right Courage is holding your chin up high when people try to bring you down Courage is not breaking under the pressure of your teammates Courage is speaking your mind Courage is doing something that puts you out of your comfort zone Courage is being the first to step up to the plate Courage is doing the things that you want to do Courage is believing that what you are doing is right Courage is to keep on trying even though people tell you that you can’t do it Courage is Jackie Robinson

28. As a member of the AEI Study Group, she led a discussion about the recommendations in the Education Policy and Leadership Center’s (EPLC) New Public Policy Report. PCN taped the forum and broadcast the discussion and the audience’s questions. Turici chairs the Fine Arts Caucus of the Pennsylvania State Education Association and serves as president of the West Allegheny Education Association.

JROTC UNIT EARNS OUTSTANDING RATING ON READINESS INSPECTION The West Allegheny High School JROTC unit received a “no findings” (outstanding rating) on a mandatory Commanding General’s Readiness Inspection (CGRI), sponsored by the Training and Education Command, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia on April 2. Personnel, administration, training, education, and logistics were inspected. While the entire corps of cadets performed superbly, special recognition was earned by the following students for their leadership: Color Guard: Brad Fratangelo (Commander), Nick Hower, Meghan Boocks, Nick Mulik, Greg Schaefer; Unarmed Drill Commander: Meghan Boocks, Armed Drill Commander: Brad Fratangelo, and Logistics and armory: Dan Henry. The unit visited the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia and Washington, DC in April 12-14. The trip included a tour of the National Museum of the Marine Corps and a meal on Marine Corps Base Quantico as well as a stop at the USMC War Memorial (Iwo Jima statue), and a visit to Kings Dominion Amusement Park. In the 11 years West Allegheny has offered JROTC at the high school, a total of 18 college scholarships have been awarded to West Allegheny unit members. Maj. David Botizan and Sgt. Maj. Robert Word are the JROTC instructors.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

10 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

s By Matthew J. Fascetti indlay Township was awarded the Development Award at the March 1st NAIOP (National Association of Industrial and Office Properties) 19th Annual Awards Banquet. Within the past seven years, a significant amount of industrial and office development has occurred in the Airport/West Corridor and Findlay Connector Westport Area. This award recognizes Findlay Township for their proactive and supportive role in the process. The leadership responsible for the growth is as follows: Tom Gallant, Chairman of Board of Supervisors; Janet Craig, Vice Chair of Board of Supervisors; Ray Chappell, Member –at-Large, Board of Supervisors; Gary Klingman, Township Manager; Chris Caruso, Assistant Manager and Planning Director; Jason Orsini, Municipal Authority Manager; Russ Collins, Building Inspector; Allegheny County Economic Development; Redevelopment Authority; West Allegheny School District and the Findlay Township Municipal Authority Board. The township has experienced over 2 million square feet in new Class A industrial and office development, with an estimated investment in excess of $250 million. Township Manager, Gary Klingman, said there are several reasons why Findlay Township has experienced the incredible growth it has. “We have tremendous infrastructure…a four lane highway, sewer and water expansion and an influx of state funding. Of course we also had the available land for the growth to occur,” said Klingman. It should be noted that Findlay Township’s support of a TIF District allowed for the aforementioned $10 million upgrades to the water and sewer systems that directly supports the planned development

at Westport. The Clinton Commerce Park and other regional projects within Findlay Township were supported by a TIF District resulting in an additional investment in excess of $13 million. Several NAIOP developer members have made significant investments in the area. The Elmhurst Group has 209,000 square feet completed and another 130,000 square feet in development at McClaren Woods Business Park which houses Lewis Goetz and Caigon Carbon. “Findlay Township has been an excellent partner in providing the flexibility to come up unique solutions for the needs of our tenants,” said Andy Gildersleeve of The Elmhurst Group. “Beginning with the Planning Commission and continuing with the supervisors, township manager and zoning and building departments, all have been willing to roll up their sleeves and work with us to find designs and layouts that are both fundamental and attractive.” The Buncher Company has completed over 600,000 square feet at the Clinton Commercial Park, which houses Fed Ex Ground and Flabeg & American Tire Distribution. Phase II is in process

with the Allegheny County Airport Authority that will access up to 361 acres for an additional 1.4 million square feet of building space. An additional 100,000 square feet was developed by Knepper Press. The Findlay Industrial Park at Westport was developed by Imperial Land Corporation with over 335,000 square feet completed since 2009, housing Okonite, Alro Steel and Appliance Builders Cooperative. Phase II is currently under development accessing an additional 373 acres in 2012. Additional developers include Horizon Properties at Northfield for the Dicks Sporting Goods Corporate office with 675,000 square feet and the Airport Authority with 105 acres at Northfield Development Area with the potential of 1 million square feet of building space. Other projects currently approved include Westport Woods by Imperial Land Corporation with a 101 acre business park, and the Allegheny County Airport Authority sites at McClaren site #9 with 96 acres for 410,000 square feet of office space and Route 30 Commerce Park with 185 acres. Klingman added that Findlay Township also supported zoning designations to create the Westport Development District which provides the largest contiguous industrial development opportunity in western Pennsylvania with the potential of over 6 million square feet when fully completed. Randy Forister, of the Allegheny County Airport Authority, is appreciative of Findlay Township’s efforts. “Findlay Township has always been a great partner in the airports real estate development activities and they are very deserving of this award,” he said. With the growth over the last few years, and the future growth that is planned, it is an exciting time to live and work in Findlay Township.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

photos by Gary Yon

MUSICIANS ORCHESTRATE

Evening of M Music usic

12 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

The West Hills Symphonic Band teamed up with the South Fayette Band for an evening of music to help raise money for the South Fayette Band Alumni Association. WHSB leader Clem Rolin formerly led the Little Green Machine Marching Band and Concert Band for more than a decade. The West Hills Symphonic Band presented its debut concert on January 29, 1967 with fifty-eight musicians, ranging from high school students to senior citizens. This concert laid the foundation for the musical organization which continues to flourish to this day. The goal was to develop an organization of professional and amateur musicians who could share their love of music with each other and the community. Over the years, the West Hills Symphonic Band has performed at many venues primarily located in and around Pittsburgh. Many concerts support programs that promote public interests. It is our hope that the West Hills Symphonic Band will continue to meet the needs of both musicians and the community for many years to come.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

Free In-Home Estimates • Fully Insured • Over 24 Years Experience • Financing Available

In House Consultation • Expert Design and Installation

AL ST

Granite/Quartz Counter Tops

KITCHENS • GAME ROOMS • PORCHES • ROOFING SOFFIT & FASCIA • BATHROOMS • ADDITIONS • PATIOS • DECKS WINDOWS • SIDING • GUTTERS • GARAGE DOORS LA TIO

INKS RE

and

Distributors of

G DELIN

14 724.942.0940 to advertise

3X WINNER

WE DO OUR OWN WORK! PA0A6H1C372 West Allegheny

412-653-0850 724-776-0805

Visit our NEW SHOWROOM

1100 Wilhelm Ave. in South Hills

OAKDALE NEWS BRIEFS & EVENTS Oakdale Looking for Resident to Fill Vacancy on Library Board

Oakdale Borough is looking for an individual to fill one of the two board positions allocated to the Borough for the West Allegheny Community Library. Board meetings are held once a month, and you will work with members of all three local municipalities in guiding the path and future of the library. For more information, please contact Councilman Jonathan DeBor at home@ debor.com or 724.693.8691.

Memorial Day

Monday, May 28, 10 a.m. Location: Line up near Fire Department

4th of July

Location: Line up near Willow Creek Crossing Wednesday, July 4, 10 a.m.

Oakdale Hose Company Carnival July 24 – 28 Location: Oakdale Business District

Fireman’s Parade

Friday, July 27, 7 p.m. Location: Oakdale Business District

120th Anniversary

September 7, 8, 9 Location: Oakdale Business District

Halloween Parade and Trick or Treating

Location: Line-up near Willow Creek Crossing Date: Wednesday, October 31, 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Light-Up Night

Location: Gazebo Area Date: Saturday, November 24, 7p.m.

Coraopolis Lodge 674

Second Annual Golf Outing Mark your calendars for the Second Annual Coraopolis Lodge 674 Golf Outing to be held at the Ponderosa Golf Course on August 11, 2012 with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun scramble. Each year, Coraopolis Masonic Lodge 674 contributes to the community by supporting local DARE programs, youth sports organizations and awarding $4,000 in scholarships to eligible students through our Wilbert Kirwin Scholarship program. The lodge also sponsors seniors residing at the Masonic Home in Sewickley, as well as charitable needs that may arise throughout the course of the year. Deadline for registration is July 22. If you are interested in registering early, please call or email Mark Berton at 412.299.0578. Cost is $75/golfer or $300/foursome. A registration form can be downloaded by going to: www.coraopolislodge674.org/ golf/RegForm.pdf

Please join us for a special blood drive dedicated in honor of Gabby Holtz

In July 2011, six-year-old Gabby Holtz started experiencing stomach pains. After several tests, a mass was found in her abdomen and she was sent to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC, where she was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of cancer of the soft tissue. She has undergone eight months of chemotherapy/radiation treatment and will conclude treatment in May 2012. She has received blood/platelet transfusions through her journey and will need more before treatment concludes. Gabby is the daughter of Larry and Lori (Gamble) Holtz and the granddaughter of Bill and Mary Gamble of Oakdale. Gabby and her family live in North Fayette Township. She has two younger sisters, Alaina and Kylie. Gabby’s a first-grader at Donaldson Elementary, but has been homebound for her first grade year because of her illness. Gabby loves sports and has played on both T-Ball and soccer teams. This special blood drive has been scheduled to help replenish the community blood supply from which she is using. Please donate blood in honor of Gabby!

Join us Saturday, June 2 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oakdale Community Center

Win This Nerf Pocket Camcorder!

You can be the star and the director of your own movies with this camera, so we’d like you to send us your SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER MOVIE POSTER featuring you! Your design is only limited by your imagination! You can draw your poster, make a collage, or make something on the computer!

HOW TO ENTER Entries should be on unfolded 8.5”x 11” inch white paper and mailed to: Nerf Contest IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Digital entries should be emailed to: mark@incommunitymagazines.com. Digital images should be hi-resolution

images for reproduction (files larger than 1MB in size). Include with your submission: Name, age, and headshot of the entrant, parental signature, and phone number where we can notify you if you’ve won. Entrants are limited to children between the ages of 6 and 12 years of age.

The winning entry, as well as the first and second runners-up, will be featured in the Fall issues of IN Community Magazines. CONTEST DEADLINE IS JULY 6. No entries will be returned. Entries should not include any graphics or concepts of existing movie posters. All entries should be PG in nature.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

16 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2

Bringing Mother and Child Together

3 4

Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

You Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss When Wounds Won’t Heal

Bringing Mother and Child Together UPMC Mercy’s newborn nursery programs foster bonding between mothers and their infants.

The bond between a mother and child is a wonder to behold. At UPMC Mercy, new mothers — and dads, too — can depend on a team of health care professionals to guide them through the process of bonding with and caring for their newborns.

The benefits of breastfeeding UPMC Mercy has three certified lactation specialists on staff, including a neonatal nurse practitioner, who provide in-hospital and outpatient support to mothers. “We see every woman who plans to nurse immediately after delivery, since breastfeeding begins within the first hour after birth,” explains UPMC Mercy lactation specialist Sarah Krivonik, RN. “Whether you’re a firsttime mother or have breastfed before, every baby is different. We help mothers identify the best solutions for their circumstances — whether it’s how to handle triplets or care for a pre-term baby who can’t breastfeed right away.” More and more women are discovering the health benefits of breastfeeding. Often described as “liquid gold,” a mother’s milk is filled with rich nutrients and vitamins. “Newborns who breastfeed have a greater resistance to infection and allergies, fewer ear infections, and are less likely to experience childhood obesity,” says UPMC Mercy’s Cheryl DiNardo, CRNP, a neonatal nurse practitioner and certified lactation specialist. “For mothers, breastfeeding promotes faster weight loss, less bleeding, and reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer.”

Promoting snuggling with a purpose “Every year, we welcome more than 1,700 babies into the world,” says Chris D’Amico, CRNP, UPMC Mercy’s obstetrics/ gynecology administrator. “A big part of our mission is to bring families together during those critical early days through one-on-one support.”

Practicing togetherness After giving birth, mothers can have their newborns at their bedside in one of UPMC Mercy’s private postpartum rooms. “With our in-room option, a mother can learn her baby’s responses and cues for feeding,” says Lora Mastracci, MSN, interim unit director for UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). “This experience allows fathers to be involved from the beginning, from helping with baths and diaper changes, to comforting and holding the baby.” In-room care also gives nursing staff the opportunity to get to know mothers and their needs in greater detail, and connect them to important community resources on their return home.

UPMC.com/Today

“Physical contact is an essential part of the bonding process,” says Diane Bear, RN, a lactation consultant with UPMC Mercy’s Women’s Health Services. “We work closely with mothers and fathers to encourage early and ongoing skin-to-skin contact with their babies.” Using a technique called “kangaroo care,” babies are held in an upright position on their parent’s bare chest (much like a kangaroo carries its young). It is especially beneficial for premature babies, and it’s also believed to help stimulate milk production for mothers who are breastfeeding. To learn more about these and other programs offered by UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Services, visit UPMCMercy.com.

Exhausted and Sleepy? At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, doctors can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, often with surprisingly fast results.

Overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes, and an irregular heartbeat, Robert Guthrie underwent a sleep study at UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center to evaluate his pulmonary function and suitability for gastric bypass surgery. He was shocked to discover he had sleep apnea so severe he actually stopped breathing 147 times per hour. Affecting 12 million Americans, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems and lead to deadly accidents due to exhaustion. “I was totally clueless. It was serendipity that took me to a sleep expert, and it probably saved my life,” says Robert, 65, who immediately began using a nighttime breathing apparatus known as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Within a week, he was sleeping soundly for the first time in six years. “It was life changing,” says the Hopwood, Pa., resident. “I feel 20 years younger.” Most people don’t know they have obstructive sleep apnea, usually caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly. With each interruption, the drop in oxygen levels prompts the brain to send a surge of adrenaline to kick-start breathing, which also leads to a spike in blood pressure. “This can happen 600 times a night. It’s a burden on the cardiovascular system and affects the quality of sleep,” says Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, medical director of the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center. According to Dr. Strollo, if you snore loudly, wake up exhausted despite a “good night’s sleep,” or feel tired or sleepy during the day, you should talk to your primary care physician. Since sleep apnea cannot be detected while you’re awake, your doctor may ask you to participate in an overnight sleep study.

At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, patients stay in a private bedroom where a sleep technician applies sensors that measure breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other body functions during sleep. A team of specialists diagnose sleep apnea by looking at the test results and reviewing medical history. Treatment options may include a CPAP machine like Robert uses, which blows air through a special mask worn over the nose. “I wasn’t wild about wearing the mask. But staying on it was a no-brainer — it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep.” says Robert. For information about the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, visit UPMC.com and click Our Services for an alphabetical listing of departments and services.

Other health consequences of sleep apnea According to Ryan Soose, MD, an otolaryngologist and sleep medicine specialist at UPMC Mercy, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, weight gain, memory problems, and daytime sleepiness. “Loud snoring is a very common feature of sleep apnea and often the most bothersome symptom for patients and other family members,” notes Dr. Soose. “Successful treatment of snoring and sleep apnea can improve quality of life as well as reduce health risks. A variety of medical and surgical treatment options are available, and the treatment plan can be customized to each individual patient.” For more information about UPMC Mercy’s sleep services or to schedule a sleep study, call UPMC Mercy Sleep Center at 412-232-7409.

1-800-533-UPMC

Pamper the Skin You’re In Your skin is a multitasking marvel. Soft, pliable, and strong, it protects your organs, regulates body temperature, detects and fights off infection, and even repairs itself.

Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

But most of us take our hard-working skin for granted. A little TLC will help keep it healthy and looking good from the inside out.

They’re more common — and easier to treat — than you think.

Keep it clean Daily cleansing can take a toll on your skin, so be gentle. Take shorter baths or showers using warm water, choose a mild cleanser, pat or blot skin dry, and apply a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.

Eat, drink, and be healthy Feed your skin from the inside for a healthy glow on the outside. Experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water keeps skin hydrated.

Get moving Regular exercise promotes circulation that energizes skin cells and carries away waste products. It also promotes the restful sleep that’s needed to rejuvenate skin.

Be sun smart Small amounts of daily sun exposure add up, so protect skin from the sun’s rays whenever you’re outdoors — even in wintertime. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and apply it liberally and often. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants provide even more protection.

Check it out Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands. Mohs micrographic surgery has proven to be an effective treatment for most skin cancers. This type of surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used to remove skin cancer on the face. Regularly checking your own skin can help find cancers early, when they are easier to treat. You’ll find the American Cancer Society’s skin self-examination guide and other sun safety tips at cancer.org. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

UPMC.com/Today

They can be tiny or bulging, painless or throbbing. But nearly half of us can expect to get spider or varicose veins, especially after age 50. “The good news is that many techniques now make vein treatments more safe, comfortable, and effective,” says Ellen D. Dillavou, MD, a vascular surgeon at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

What new treatments are available? Among the newest is the injection of polidocanol for the treatment of spider veins. “It’s a cosmetic procedure that works much better than saline to collapse surface veins,” says Dr. Dillavou. “Spider veins do reoccur, though, so expect to do ‘touch ups’ periodically.” Injections also are used for larger veins and may replace older procedures like a “vein stripping.” For treating varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation (a minimally invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy seals the vein closed) is a popular treatment among her patients, says Dr. Dillavou, “because it’s comfortable and effective.”

Are varicose veins dangerous? “Varicose and spider veins typically don’t pose a health risk, but they can point to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI),” says Gus Abu-Hamad, MD, a vascular surgeon at UPMC Mercy. “It’s a visual cue that blood may not be optimally flowing to and from the feet and legs to the heart, which can lead to more serious problems.” Other CVI symptoms include painful, tired, restless, achy, itchy, or swollen legs or ankles. In more advanced cases, skin changes and ulcers can develop. “The problem becomes more difficult to treat as it advances, so it’s important to always share your symptoms with your doctor,” says Dr. Abu-Hamad. To learn more about all the vascular services at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com.

Your Health Care Goes Mobile It’s now easy to manage your medical records or schedule a doctor’s appointment by phone — because HealthTrak has an app for that.

Need to keep track of your elderly parents’ appointments and test results? Want instant access to your children’s immunization records? Run out of medicine while traveling and need a refill? Have a follow-up question for your doctor after office hours? All are available with a click of your mouse — and most with a tap on your iPhone®, iPad®, or Android™ — via UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that allows patients, and approved family members, to receive and manage information about their health. Recent upgrades include a new mobile HealthTrak application that provides patients with secure access anytime and anywhere.

HealthTrak also provides patients with automatic access to certain test results, including x-rays, lab, and pathology tests, with links they can use to help interpret information. This makes it easier for patients to keep track of their cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, and other important health numbers, adds Dr. Shevchik. UPMC hopes to add cardiology test results in the near future. Also on the horizon are plans to use photos to identify some skin conditions or diseases.

“We’re giving people what they want — even when they’re on the go. It’s a convenient, safe, and free way to manage their own health,” says G. Daniel Martich, MD, UPMC chief medical information officer.

Going mobile is fast and easy To access HealthTrak data using a mobile device, you must first secure a HealthTrak account through UPMCHealthTrak.com. You should then download the free “MyChart app” from the App Store, iTunes Store, or Google Play (formerly Android Market). The mobile app provides access to everything except eVisits, or online doctor visits. According to Dr. Martich, more than 100,000 patients have signed up for HealthTrak — and nearly 6,000 are mobile app users. Grant Shevchik, MD, a family physician and geriatrician who is medical director of HealthTrak, says online medical care is “the future.” He predicts an explosion of users once word spreads about the overall convenience and newest features — including access for authorized family members. Adults juggling the health care of their children and aging parents can use the “proxy access” feature to keep track of health records and appointments, refill prescriptions, communicate with doctors, and ask billing questions. Parents especially appreciate having instant access to a child’s immunization record when they need it, says Dr. Shevchik. Approved caregivers find eVisit, the online doctor visit service, very useful for the diagnosis of common, non-urgent ailments in their elderly relatives. “HealthTrak gives people immediate accessibility. And that accessibility is improving health care by encouraging patients to accept responsibility for their health,” says Dr. Shevchik.

Sign up today! Easy, direct signup for HealthTrak is available online by going to UPMCHealthTrak.com and clicking “Sign up now” under New User. Follow the steps to complete an online application and answer personal questions designed to ensure that you, and not another person, are creating the account. If you have difficulties, email healthtrak@upmc.edu or call the UPMC HealthTrak Support Line at 1-866-884-8579.

1-800-533-UPMC

Talent + Imagination + Learning =

Events You Won’t Want to Miss UPMC Senior Communities’ year-long calendar of entertainment, movies, and educational seminars aims to enrich the lives of seniors — and delight the public, too.

What do Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, a Meryl Streep movie, and acupuncture have in common? All are among UPMC Senior Communities’ upcoming 2012 Legacy Lineup. “We’re committed to providing residents at all our senior communities with activities that will capture their interests, generate conversation, and stimulate their minds,” says Nanci Case, vice president for sales, marketing, and activities for UPMC Senior Communities. “Through The Legacy Lineup and other programs, we’re bringing seniors — and people of all ages — together to relax, laugh, and learn together.” Open to the public, The Legacy Lineup programs are offered at UPMC Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Senior Communities’ independent living facility located on the UPMC Passavant campus. “You can attend a Legacy Lineup event every week of the month, with many events offered at no charge,” says Greta Ceranic, marketing director for Cumberland Woods Village. The Legacy Theatre is part of a state-of-the-art conference center and 247-seat amphitheatre funded through a generous $16.5 million grant by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. One of the Foundation’s primary goals is public education and outreach. UPMC physicians, nurses, and other medical staff members also use the facility for professional development training. “And funds raised through The Legacy Lineup support UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund,” adds Ms. Case, “providing financial assistance and other support services to residents in need at all 17 UPMC retirement communities.”

UPMC.com/Today

Productions showcase local and national talent “Each month, The Legacy Lineup features at least one major production featuring a band, soloist, or performance troupe,” says Ms. Ceranic. “Earlier this year, the Tamburitzans appeared to a sell-out crowd. Later this year, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand impersonators will perform with a full orchestra.” The 2012 lineup also includes the Jaggerz and the Fabulous Hubcaps, as well as a major holiday production in December. Because seating is limited, advance tickets are recommended. Group discounts and ticket packages are available.

Spend Mondays at the movies From cinematic classics like Citizen Kane to recent blockbusters like Iron Lady with Meryl Streep, seniors can enjoy free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Legacy Theatre.

Explore your interests at learning seminars On alternating Tuesdays at 11 a.m., The Legacy Lineup offers educational programming that covers a wide range of subjects, from tips on aging, caregiver support, health and nutrition, history, and local topics of interest. The seminars are free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested. For the full 2012 calendar of activities, or to make reservations, call 412-635-8080 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

To learn about the independent living, personal care, assisted living, and skilled nursing options offered by UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800-324-5523 to schedule a tour. Locations include Allison Park, Cranberry, Fox Chapel, Greensburg, Lawrenceville, McCandless, Monroeville, Penn Hills, Scott Township, and Washington, Pa.

When Wounds Won’t Heal If you’re at risk, a simple cut or blister can quickly escalate into a major health problem.

Simple blisters, calluses, cuts, and scrapes usually heal quickly. But some wounds can take months to heal — posing a major health threat requiring special treatment to avoid serious infection, amputation, and even death. Dane Wukich, MD, an orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon, and medical director of UPMC Wound Healing Services at UPMC Mercy, says chronic wounds are often ignored. “We see 3,000 new cases each year of serious, non-healing wounds that can become life-threatening and possibly lead to amputations,” says Dr. Wukich. “Within 24 hours, a simple callous can turn deadly.”

“Individuals with neuropathy are at risk. They get a callous or blister and walk on it all day, not realizing they have a wound until they see blood on their sock,” says Dr. Wukich. “Once a wound occurs, their risk of infection goes up significantly. And once they have an infection, the risk of amputation increases astronomically.” Poor circulation due to diabetes or vascular disease also slows healing, he explains. Patients who are bedridden or confined to a wheelchair are at risk of developing pressure wounds from lying or sitting in one position too long.

Prevention and treatment Preventing wounds and complications is key, says Dr. Wukich. “Patients with non-healing wounds have a worse survival rate than patients with breast cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. That’s how serious it is,” he says bluntly. Lowering and controlling sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can improve circulation and reduce complications. Checking daily for wounds and acting quickly to treat and heal ulcers can reduce the risk of severe infection and amputation. For a wound to heal properly, it must be kept clean. Dead tissue must be removed through a weekly cleaning to prevent the spread of infection. In addition, skin around a wound must be kept moist, and doctors may prescribe walking boots and casts to reduce direct weight on the wound.

Are you at risk? People with diabetes and vascular disease are especially vulnerable to slow healing and chronic wounds. Diabetic patients often have neuropathy, which causes them to lose sensation in their feet. Because they don’t feel pain, sores go unnoticed and can become ulcerated.

At UPMC Mercy, a multidisciplinary team of infectious disease physicians and orthopaedic, vascular, and plastic surgeons work together to treat wounds and help prevent amputations. Advanced wound therapy may include the use of regenerative skin products, vascular, plastic, or reconstructive foot surgery. Amputation is used as a last resort to save a life, says Dr. Wukich. For more information about UPMC Mercy’s Wound Healing Services, visit UPMC.com/MercyWoundHealing.

Foot Care Tips If you have diabetes or vascular disease, inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, redness, swelling, or foul odor. If you can’t bend over, use a plastic mirror to check the bottoms of your feet, or ask a family member to help. Make sure your doctor inspects your feet at every visit.

1-800-533-UPMC

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 information 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.

The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.

H HALL OF FAME H

Committee Honors Inductees By Jonathan Barnes t was just before halftime, first game of the year, and in a quarterback sneak, freshman Tyler Palko pushed the ball into the opposition’s end-zone. The score and the extra point kick that followed sealed the win for West Allegheny over rival Montour, and was a turning point for the team. “For many years, we couldn’t win a football season,” Gamble said. Gamble, 71, has been the announcer of those games for more than half a century, since he took the job at 20, after he got out of the service in 1960. He remembers a lot of football games over the decades, but that one touchdown stands out as the most memorable, since it brought home the win and also silenced critics of Palko, who was just starting out as a freshman quarterback and who also was the coach’s son. But by his senior year, Palko had led the team to a state championship. These days, he plays pro football for Kansas City; two of his high school team-mates also became pros. Their legacy is just part of the colorful past of West Allegheny school district athletics, which West Allegheny Athletic Hall Fame Committee hopes to enshrine for future generations. The committee recently was formed to recognize the district’s many exceptional athletes and their contributions, and will host its first awards banquet in May. Gamble is a member of the Hall Of Fame Committee, and quarterbacked the team his senior year in 1958, when West Allegheny had a less memorable, losing season. Things were different in the school district back then, since it was still coming together as one entity after being

formed in 1949 from Oakdale, North Fayette and Findlay. Not everyone on the squad agreed on who should be a starting player, and there was some grumbling. “Usually when you come together, there’s some fussing,” Gamble said. “This area used to be all farmland… Now it’s all new homes. And now West Allegheny has one of the premier football programs in the state.”

hat bickering amongst the team is all in the distant past, a past that today’s youngsters may not have even realized existed, given the continuity of the district’s sports teams these days. The last dozen or so years have been the most exciting years for West Allegheny football, with the team winning the WPIAL championship five times under Coach Bob Palko. “We’ve had some outstanding players over the years,” Gamble said. While nominations for this year’s round of Hall Of Fame honorees is closed, the committee will continue to seek potential nominees for future inductions. Sixteen applicants are being considered, and five to ten of them soon will be chosen by the committee to be honored at the Hall of Fame’s banquet May 20. Proceeds from the banquet will benefit

PALS (Providing Assistance Love and Support), a program initiated by Bob Brozovich, North Fayette Parks and Recreation Director, which helps special needs children. The 9-member committee was conceived and formed by Brozovich, who didn’t have to think long about who it might help. The cause which the committee benefits is close to Brozovich’s heart: from 1993 to 2000, he was the executive director of the Variety Club of Pittsburgh, which provides mobility equipment and fun activities for special needs children. That work made a powerful impression on him. “My time with the Variety Club was some of the best times I’ve had. This effort goes back to there—working with kids, and seeing the smiles on their faces, is a wonderful experience,” Brozovich said. “It’s not only beneficial for the kids; it also is beneficial for the parents.”

ALS does some things very similar to what Variety Club did, such as pairing students from West Allegheny school district with kids with special needs in a variety of fun events. Among other activities, the district’s girl’s soccer team has taught soccer to the children in the high school gym; the football team has organized and officiated scooter races for the kids; and the PALS group also has hosted an Easter Egg Hunt and a Christmas Party. This year, the two-year-old group will host a six week long summer camp for the kids. For more information on the West Allegheny Hall of Fame or its banquet in May, call Bob Brozovich at 724.693.3118.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

NEW TO YOU

SALE AND

CAREER MONTH

AT PITTSBURGH TECHNICAL INSTITUTE WHEN HEN YOU’RE PAY PA PAYING ING YOUR WAY WA THROUGH SCHOOL, THERE’S NOT MUCH LEFT OVER FOR A NEW SUIT IN THE BUDGET, EVEN IF THAT SUIT IS FOR YOUR FIRST JOB INTERVIEW… …so PTI leaders have in place a program to help students deal with that dilemma. Under the advisement of instructor John Nagy, students majoring in Business Administration have planned each aspect of the event, including seeking donations from the college community and regional retail establishments to help their peers prepare for job interviews with appropriate and affordable clothing. In addition to clothing, the students have collected personal care products and arranged complimentary hair styling. The NTY Professional Dress Sale originated five years ago when it became evident that many students could benefit from the availability of professional clothing for their internships and job interviews. The administration asked PTI employees to donate their gently worn professional clothing, and a small store was established where students can buy business attire at low cost. In fact, all students in their final year are given a $2 gift voucher to help them out (the most expensive items are only $1). This project was very successful so PTI decided to do this twice a year. It was also decided that the School of Business would host this event. This is one of the major projects that the Meeting and Event class plans and executes. It has grown considerably through the years with support of the college’s professional advisory board members and other connections with industry organizations, (AMA, GPHA, Skal, etc.). These organizations in turn send out the request to their colleagues and there is always an abundance of clothing for the students to choose. The students look forward to this event. This year, PTI served over 243 second year students and many underclassmen. While the goal of the

project has nothing to do with profit, the sale netted $156 which goes to support a community service project. Campus officials are confident that students are prepared and have the skills they need to be successful on their interviews and by having this NTY Professional Dress Sale, the PTI community gives them that extra boost of confidence they may need to nail that interview. “Our New to You sale provides our students the opportunity to not only appear in professional dress attire for the Career Fair, but it enables them to feel competitive with their upcoming interviews. One of the comments employers often say is that our students looks very professional and more polished than a typical college student. We believe the New to You sale gives our students that added edge in a competitive economy,” said Josephine Smith, Director of Career Services. If there is any nice looking clothing left, PTI keeps it on campus in case a student needs something at a later date. All the other clothing is donated to charities throughout the area. “The New To You Professional Dress Sale attempts to remove any obstacles that may prevent our students from having appropriate interview attire. It has also become a great practical learning experience for our business students who coordinate the event in their Meeting and Event Planning course,” said Eileen M. Riley, Vice President of Education.

ABOUT PITTSBURGH TECHNICAL INSTITUTE Offering career-focused education since 1946, Pittsburgh Technical Institute is a two-year college with two locations in Western Pennsylvania: a 180-acre campus in North Fayette, west of Pittsburgh, and a center at the Regional Learning Alliance, north of the City in Cranberry. PTI offers degree and certificate programs in areas such as Building Technology, Business, Criminal Justice, Design, Healthcare, Nursing, and 26 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

Information Technology. PTI students can take advantage of online course offerings, on-campus residence halls, student activities, intramural programs and community service programs. PTI is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. PTI was recognized by its employees as one of the region’s Top Places to Work in a 2011 study commissioned by The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. For more information, call 1-800-784-9675, or visit http://www.pti.edu/ <http://www.pti.edu/>

PITTSBURGH TECHNICAL INSTITUTE AND THE MALL AT ROBINSON ANNOUNCE THE BEST OF VISIONS & VOICES 2012 EXHIBITION AT PTI SHOWCASE OF ART, TECHNOLOGY & INDUSTRY

COMING SOON TO PTI SHOWCASE: MAY 19 TO SEPTEMBER 20 The Travel Show Presented by PTI Hospitality Management Administration

A GALLERY OF ART, TECHNOLOGY & INDUSTRY AT THE MALL AT ROBINSON n LOWER LEVEL ENTRY C

exhibition is a reflection of the dedication and inspiration of each entrant’s high school instructors. OPENING THURSDAY, APRIL 5TH, EXHIBITING THROUGH MAY 17, 2012 Local school districts represented in the PTI Showcase exhibition at The Mall at Vision & Voices is an annual high school category. A Best of Show scholarship has Robinson include West Allegheny, Baldwin, student show and scholarship competition been awarded in the amount of $15,000 to Carlynton, Seneca Valley, Bethel Park, produced by Pittsburgh Technical Institute Joshua John Simon of Chatham High School Norwin, Shaler and Gateway. to honor high school creative achievement. for his short film narrative, “The Prodigy.” PTI Showcase is a unique gallery The exhibit at PTI Showcase at The Mall “We are thrilled with the growth we’ve partnership designed to recognize at Robinson will highlight the Best of the experienced in our nine years of hosting this professional and student achievement in art, 2012 Show by featuring its award-winning high school student show,” said Susan Rosa, technology and industry. PTI Showcase is achievements in painting, computer-aided PTI Director of Visual Communication. “To located inside the Mall at Robinson - Entry C drafting, web design, jewelry, sculpture, make this opportunity available to hundreds on the lower level near Macy’s. The Mall at drawing, photography, video, film, interactive of students from dozens of high schools, Robinson estimates an average weekly traffic media and ceramics. not only throughout our region but across of 125,000 visitors. Weekend daily averages This year, PTI welcomed more than Pennsylvania and in states as far away as include 20,000 visitors on Fridays, 35,000 700 entries from 105 high schools in six Illinois, New York and New Jersey, is exciting visitors on Saturdays and 15,000 visitors on states. Scholarships ranging from $6,000 and rewarding.” Rosa noted that the depth of to $2,000 have been awarded in each talent exhibited in the 2012 Vision and Voices Sundays.

PITTSBURGH INSTRUCTOR TAKES TOP HONORS AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE IN WASHINGTON DC

ittsburgh Technical Institute graduate and School of Design faculty member Alicia Lee Cerullo earned top honors at the Adobe Photoshop World Conference and Expo held last week in Washington DC. The Photoshop Guru Awards were created in 1999 to recognize and honor top achievements in design, photography, retouching and creativity. The awards program honors one winner in each of seven categories. Cerullo’s work earned top recognition and 2012 Guru Award in the Artistic category. Cerullo’s piece is a digital painting of her miniature schnauzer, Merlin. She used Adobe Photoshop’s brush tools and tonal adjustments to create her first-ever digital painting (see attachment for the award winning piece). A 2004 graduate of PTI’s Multimedia Technologies program, Cerullo went on to earn her BFA graphic design and has been teaching at PTI since 2008. The techniques used in the painting reflect Cerullo’s work in the classroom with graphic design and multimedia students enrolled in PTI’s School of Design - who affectionately refer to Cerullo as the Photoshop Ninja. She currently teaches courses in Digital

Imaging, Web Design and Portfolio Development. “I create assignments which require students to paint digitally from a photograph,” said Cerullo. “We study light, shadow, color, highlights, midtones and use the software to emulate the texture of a painting. Photographs are an important part of the advertising and design industry, so this is just one of many ways we boost our students’ portfolios and employable skills.” PTI upholds a continuous review of curriculum to ensure that course outcomes and assignments meet the demands of the industry. Cerullo is part of a team currently reviewing coursework in photography and advanced digital imaging. “Everything we do is connected to PTI’s mission to prepare our students for their careers,” she said. “The Guru award is a great personal achievement,” said Cerullo. “But what is even more important to me is that it validates that I’m doing things right in the classroom.” Cerullo is a native of Uniontown and currently resides in Weirton. The 2012 Photoshop World Expo was Cerullo’s first trip to the conference and she received the honor on her birthday, Saturday, March 24. “I am honored to be recognized among such a talented group of artists,” she said. West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

28 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

Time honored traditions and new partnerships for future generations Acorn Club of Oakdale holding golf fundraiser to benefit Troop 248 Cabin Rebuilding Efforts

The Acorn Club of Oakdale Lodge No. 669 F. & A. M. will be holding a golf outing to benefit the Oakdale Boy Scout Troop 248 cabin rebuilding effort June 8 at Shadow Lakes Country Club. Golfers will tee things off with a shotgun start at 10:00 a.m. and the festivities will wrap up with a terrific dinner right after the last putt drops. The four-man scramble event will also include the usual games of skill, as well as a skins competition and a Chinese auction. The Acorn Club was conceived in the early 1900s, when several farmers and railroad workers would have lunch met under an Oak Tree near a spring on Turpin Hill. Those individuals realized they were members of the same Fraternal Organization, Free and Accepted Masons, and decided to meet socially on a monthly basis. The first charter Oakdale Lodge 669 F.& A.M was formed in 1911, with its original meeting place in the Thompson Grain Mill built in 1849. The

original building burned to the ground in 1973 and a new building was built in 1976 where lodge meetings are presently held. The Oakdale lodge has grown since its inception to 347 members today. Since these early coincidental meetings, the Acorn club continues its mission of supporting Masonic fellowship and charitable causes in Oakdale and the surrounding area. Boy Scout Troop 248 has also been active in Oakdale since the early 1900s. The Troop holds its meetings in an 18th century log cabin in Oakdale. The original cabin, formerly located on McKee Farm (presently Scott Farm), was dismantled and moved by horse drawn wagons to its present location in 1932, when it was dedicated to Boy Scout Troop 248. The name Killbuck Lodge was chosen to honor the memory of the great Delaware Indian Chief Killbuck who was an influential fixture in the early history of the greater Pittsburgh region. In 2007, property which contained the cabin was donated by the American Legion Post 171 of Oakdale to the Friends of Killbuck Lodge, so the property could be preserved and used for future generations. The storied history includes

helping mold the young men of Oakdale, Collier, Bridgeville, North & South Fayette and the surrounding communities for over 100 years. The troop recently honored their 79th, 80th & 81st Eagle Scouts this past March and hope to continue this rich history for another 100 years. Centuries of adverse weather, as well as the normal wear and tear of facility use, have taken its toll on the existing structure of the log cabin. The restoration of Killbuck Lodge is a significant undertaking that will encompass a complete disassembly of the current structure, log restoration and rebuilding, updates for code compliance, and the addition of restroom and office facilities with enhanced heating and electrical systems. The success of the project is dependent on financial and volunteer support. To learn more, about the golf outing please contact Darrell Williams at 412.592.4407 or http://sites.google. com/site/acornclubofoakdale/ or for more information on the Friends of Killbuck Lodge, contact Matt Cochran at 724.799.3970 or friendsofkillbucklodge.org

THE THOMAS STUDIO OF PERFORMING ARTS THOMAS STUDIO WEST 7053 Steubenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071 412.787.7686

dance@thomasdance.com Offering the Following Techniques • Ballet • Hip-Hop • Pointe • Lyrical • Tap • Modern • Jazz • Gymnastics • Beginner to Advanced Ages 2-18

Summer and Fall Schedule Available Wednesday, June 13, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. • Two spacious studios • Summer Saturday Preschool • Classroom Observation Windows • Closed Circuit TV’s • Ample Parking 2009 SBA Family Owned Business of the Year

CALL TODAY!!

Congratu lation to the s West A M your cho usical from reo Deanna & graphers Angela

Studio under the direction of Linda & Jessica Spencer West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

s y o B y n e h g e l West Al d a e H s r e y a l p Soccer d l i u b e R p l e H South To

It’s been nearly seven years since Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Louisiana coastline,

flooding 80 percent of New Orleans and setting a record as the costliest natural disaster in the U.S. Not surprisingly, the people of New Orleans and the surrounding areas are still trying to rebuild. Fortunately, they have the help of concerned people from all over the country who come together via church missions and who are bonded by a sense of volunteerism and charity to offer their time and efforts. One such group was comprised of members of the West Allegheny Boys Soccer Team, who travelled to the Upper 9th Ward of New Orleans in February to help rebuild homes and churches. Organized by St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Moon, and headed by Pastor Larry Mort who lives in West Allegheny and has a senior son, Joseph, who is one of the WA soccer players who attended the trip, the most recent mission to New Orleans has been just one of several. Joseph has been to the Gulf area several times on these mission trips and, last year, he interested six of his WAHS soccer junior buddies into going. In all, a dozen boys ranging from freshmen to seniors made the trip, which lasted one week. The 12 boys that attended the mission trip were freshmen Danny Aromando, Patrick Harmon, Kyle McCracken, Dylan Nauman and Tyler Sciulli; junior, Jeremy Ashman; and six seniors: Travis Cavalovitch, Josh Coury, Brandon McCracken, Joseph Mort, Bobby Schiff and Ethan Schweinsberg. All twelve boys play soccer for the West Allegheny High School junior varsity and varsity teams. The principal person that organized the West

30 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

Allegheny consortium was Reverend Larry Mort who preaches at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Moon Township, but who resides in West Allegheny with wife and two sons. During the mission trip, the boys stayed at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in New Orleans’ very poor lower 9th Ward; an area that has had particular difficulties bouncing back from the 2005 Katrina disaster due to a lack of sufficient financial resources. The boys put in a full 8-hour work day each day which started at 8 a.m. each morning. The seven older boys were given the task to tear out and reframe re-shingle a roof of a home that had suffered damage during the Katrina. It was a home of a 98-year old woman. The five younger boys conducted lots of hard labor in and around the church property. On two of the evenings, the group of 12 were also asked to conduct soccer clinics for the local Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana. On those same evenings, prior to the soccer clinics, they also helped tutor the children with their homework. They did get a little R&R and, on one night, they had the opportunity to visit the famous Bourbon Street area of New Orleans. During the week in New Orleans’ Lower 9th Ward, the collective group of West A boys learned much about compassion and giving back to those less fortunate.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

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

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

Wage/LST Tax Collector Barbara Coates 724.695.0521 bcoates@findlaytwp.org

Real Estate Tax Collector Dorothy McCullough 724.695.2995

Regular Meeting - 2nd Wednesday each month, 7 p.m.

Administration

Workshop Meeting - 4th Thursday Mayor each month, 7 p.m. Ross Rohbeck, 405 Clinton Avenue Ext. Public Safety Oakdale, PA 15071 Findlay Township Police 724.693.8382

Department

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

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

Bud Sturgeon, Councilman 4050 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2748

Borough Secretary

Public Safety - 911

115 Main Street Imperial, PA 15126 Emergency Number: 911 or 724.695.7777 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.8845 staff@imperialvfd.org

Valley Ambulance Authority 3550 University Boulevard Moon Township, PA 15108 911 or 412.262.2040

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

Kelly Rohbeck 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.9740 Fax: 724.693.0100 rohbeck@oakdaleborough.com

Tom Potts, Councilman 305 Clinton Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071

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 Earned Income Tax Collection and Emergency & Municipal Services Tax Mr. Tom Falcioni 724.693.9190 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

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

32 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

Public Safety North Fayette P.D.

400 North Branch Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.787.8900 Chief: Jeffrey Falconer

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 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

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

CREATING BEAUTIFUL HEALTHY SMILES

DEL R. BONI, D.M.D. Specialist In Orthodontics

Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics For Children and Adults

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

Boni Orthodontics is pleased to announce the opening of their newest location at 995 Beaver Grade Road, Moon Township. Traditional Braces, Invisalign & Clear Ceramic Braces available Flexible Hours, Affordable Payment Plans, Most Insurances Accepted FREE CONSULTS â&#x20AC;˘ NOW ACCEPTING THE CHIP PROGRAM

BONI ORTHODONTICS

180 Imperial Plaza Dr., Imperial 724-695-3545 995 Beaver Grade Rd., Moon Twp. 412-329-7768 2496 Brodhead Rd., Hopewell 724-857-0333

www.boniorthodontics.com

School Board Debbie Mirich (president) Patrick Konieczny (vice president) Dr. Anne Bolind Ed Faux Tracy Kosis Robert Ostrander Ronald Pasic Eugene Sciulli John Scott

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

34 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

PARKWAY WEST CTC

Parkway West Offers New Robotics Course In this course, students will learn how to measure and shape metal, plastics, and other substances in order to manufacture a variety of products including several different types of robots. Students will learn how to read blueprints, and how to use mathematics including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. They will also be taught how to lay out their work, set up machines, and choose proper feeds and speeds for machining various shapes, sizes, and materials. Machines included in the curriculum include: lathes, milling machines, drill presses, grinders, and EDM (electrodischarge) machines. Advanced students learn computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD) and how to program, set-up, and operate CNC (computer-numeric controlled) lathes and milling machines. In addition, this course will provide instruction in robotic systems. In this part of the course students will conduct handson experiments in the latest robotic technology, using motors, servos, sensors, gears, pulleys, and switches. This course will include aspects of electro-mechanical engineering from planning and design to assembly, programming, testing,

and improvement. Various competitions, including BotsIQ, help to make this a fun and exciting class.

PARKWAY WEST CTC

American Welding Society 31 Weld-off Pittsburgh Section

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

During November 2011, 60 welding students across the Pittsburgh region competed in the 31st weld-off at the Boiler Makers training center on Banksville Road in Pittsburgh. The welding test consisted of Shielded Metal Arc Welding in the vertical and overhead positions. The test was a weld certification test that was visually inspected and x-rayed for quality. On Tuesday April 17, 2012, Josh Benish, a senior from West Allegheny, found out that he won 3rd place! Josh won $50 and earned his industry weld certification papers for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (stick). Josh is a very hard working student and extremely interested in the welding field. Josh has been at Parkway West CTC for 2 years. After graduation, he plans on furthering his welding education at CCAC to obtain his associates degree. Josh is currently working for EA Fab, located in Oakdale. He is expected to be hired fulltime when he graduates in June. This is the fourth year in a row that Parkway West CTC place in the top three.

Derek D’Amore Auto Body Repair II – AM West Allegheny School District The AM student of the month for April is Derek D’Amore, a junior at West Allegheny High School and an Auto Body II student. Derek was nominated by his instructor, Mr. Kieffer, who describes Derek as an excellent student and a class leader. Derek currently works CoOp through Parkway at Woltz and Wind Ford in Canonsburg. Derek is the Vice-President of SkillsUSA and a District Champion, a member of NTHS and the West Allegheny varsity football team. Derek has not ruled out or committed to a post-secondary school but he is certain that whatever he will be doing, cars are in his future. He currently runs his own detailing business out of his garage in his spare time.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Plan the

Honeymoon

Dreams of your

edding planning is tough, which is why the honeymoon is so important. Not only is it a time for you and your spouse to spend time alone together as newlyweds, it’s also an important vacation from the stresses leading up to the wedding. To meet both needs, we’ve come up with a few places that will not only get you to relax, but also will give you the beauty and enchantment that a newly pledged love deserves. Close to home are the Bahamas and the Caribbean – chains of literally hundreds of islands ripe for exploration and relaxation in the warm tropical sun. Known for pristine beaches, azure blue water and bustling nightlife, these destinations are honeymooner friendly with package deals, cruises and excursions. Because of their popularity among lovers, these package deals won’t break the bank, and can be customtailored for anyone from adrenaline-lovers to the sunbathers. On the other side of the United States, and in keeping with the island paradise theme, Hawaii has long been a honeymoon dream for couples. From spectacular views of sunsets and volcanic activity, to a legendary expanse of beaches, Hawaii offers lifelong memories without leaving US soil. If the beach isn’t your thing, Europe could be your answer. From the baguettes of Paris to the cuisine of Italy, to the Swiss Alps, if you can’t find something to suit your fancy in Europe, you may not have a pulse! European vacations have their own unique benefits for honeymooners. While you won’t find the resort packages of the

36 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

Bahamas here, you will find, with the help of a talented travel agent, many options available. Whether you want to tour the entirety of Europe, or stay put in one of its historic cities, your travel agent can plan special tours based on your interests, or discounted fare on Eurorail travel. Want to see castles? Your agent can arrange that. Want to taste cuisines from Lisbon to Budapest? That can be arranged as

European vacations have their own unique benefits for honeymooners. While you won’t find the resort packages of the Bahamas here, you will find, with the help of a talented travel agent, many options available to you whether you want to tour the entirety of Europe, or stay put in one of its historic cities.

well. Want to see where the carats in your engagement ring came from in Antwerp? No problem. How about a lazy cruise down the Seine River? You got it. So, no matter what your interests, your travel agent can make your European honeymoon something you’ll never forget.

ut what if you really want to get away from it all? What if you’re the type of traveling power couple who want to experience a honeymoon that you can’t find on postcards? Well, your travel agent can do that too. Out of the way destinations are not only doable, travel agents love them because they get them out of the rut of booking bus tours to Atlantic City or business trips to Denver. Why not book a trip to the original shrine to eternal love – the Taj Mahal in India? Or take a tour “down under” to experience the Australian outback and the Sydney nightlife? Looking for a safari? South Africa offers both wildlife adventure and beach vistas. If unparalleled beauty is what you’re looking for, New Zealand – the backdrop of the gorgeous cinematography featured in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Avatar – is only a reservation away. The bottom line is that each honeymoon – like each couple – is unique. With the help of an experienced travel agency like Three Rivers Travel, your honeymoon can break out of the mold and give you both a lifetime of memories to enjoy as the years go by (and you can be the envy of your friends and family when you return!).

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

ROOM by ROOM

ome fires may seem like the kind of event that happens to someone else, but the reality is, it could easily happen to you. Approximately every three hours a home fire death occurs somewhere in the nation, according to the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). Take action now to make sure your home is safer, and that your family knows what to do in case a fire does break out. And don’t stop there — share some positivity in your community by reminding family and friends to change the batteries in their smoke alarms when they change their clocks this fall.

Make a Plan When a home fire occurs, you have very little time to get out. Having an escape plan that everyone is familiar with is a critical part of saving lives. Yet only 23 percent of U.S. families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan to ensure they could escape quickly and safely. n Draw a floor plan of your home and find two ways out of every room. Sketch the exit routes clearly on the floor plan. n If an upstairs window is one of the escape options, make sure you have a fire escape ladder long enough to reach the ground. Make sure every adult knows how to use it. Adults should be responsible for helping younger children. n Assign an outside meeting place, so that if the family escapes from different routes, you can quickly locate each other.

Room by Room Bedrooms The peak time for home fire fatalities is between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., when

Illustration courtesy of Getty Images

most families are asleep. Do not trap electrical cords against walls. Heat can build up, posing a fire hazard. n Use only lab-approved electric blankets and warmers. Make sure cords are not worn or coming apart. Do not leave electric blankets switched on all night unless they are marked “suitable for all night use.” n Keep bedding, curtains and other combustible items at least three feet away from space heaters. n

Information sourced from the International Association of Fire Chiefs, The Home Safety Council, and the U.S. Fire Administration. 38 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

n n

Never smoke in bed. Replace mattresses made before the 2007 Federal Mattress Flammability Standard. By law, mattresses made since then are required to be safer. Have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area.

n n n

Living Rooms n

Do not overload electrical outlets. Never run electrical cords under carpets. Check all electrical cords for fraying or other signs of damage. Only light decorative candles when adults are in the room. Use stable candle holders that will not catch fire. Blow candles out when you leave. During a power failure, do not use candles or oil lamps for light. Keep battery operated flashlights and lanterns in easily accessible places. Candles used for light in the absence of electrical power cause one-third of fatal home candle fires. Make sure you have a working smoke alarm in each room, including the living room.

Kitchens Cooking equipment is the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries in the United States, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. n Never use extension cords to plug in cooking appliances. They can overload the circuit and start a fire.

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. Keep anything that can catch fire away from the cooktop. This includes potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels and curtains. Keep the cooktop, burners and oven clean. Loose clothing can dangle onto stove burners and catch fire. Wear short, close-fitting clothing or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.

Garages n n n n

Store all combustible materials away from regular sources of heat, such as water heaters, space heaters, boilers and furnaces. Keep wood finishes, spray paint, paint thinners and other flammable products in a dedicated storage container with a closed door. Store all combustible materials in their proper containers and be sure they are clearly marked. Keeping the garage tidy can also help keep it safe. Get rid of stacked boxes, newspapers, recycling and trash. They can be instant fuel for a fire.

For more tips, visit www.Energizer.com.

Change Your , Change Your

Clock Battery®

Daylight saving time ends Sunday, November 4, 2012, 2:00 a.m. and marks the 25th anniversary of the Change Your Clock Change Your Battery® program, created by Energizer and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). This program reminds people to check and change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors during the fall time change. Installing smoke alarms on every level of the home can give your family precious minutes to get out and get to safety. • Teach children what smoke alarms

sound like and what to do when they hear one. • Once a month, check whether each alarm in the home is working properly by pushing the test button. • Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Immediately install a new battery if an alarm chirps, warning the battery is low.

• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms. • Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

West Allegheny | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

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

VISIT OUR

WEBSITE 40 724.942.0940 to advertise

West Allegheny

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

B U S I N ESS D I R EC TO RY

Donald C. Grau, CPA Tax Returns • Bookeeping Small Business Start Up PHONE: 412.264.5151 FAX: 412.264.5110 CELL: 412.770.7202

Grau & Co., LLC 200 Commerce Dr., Suite 210 • Moon Township, PA 15108 don@graucocpa.com • www.graucocpa.com

* * *

Off 50%O

* *

Your first appointment for

Haircare and Waxing

* Walk-ins Welcome * Full Body Waxing

412.494.4455

7136 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA

ADVERTISE HERE! Call 724.942.0940 sales@incommunitymagazines.com

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH, PA PERMIT NO. 887

603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com

IN Baldwin-Whitehall

IN North Allegheny

IN Bedford County

IN Norwin

IN Bethel Park

IN Penn Hills

IN Canon-Mac

IN Peters Township

IN Chartiers Valley

IN Pine-Richland

IN Fox Chapel

IN Plum

IN Hampton

IN Ross Township

IN Keystone Oaks

IN Seneca Valley

IN Mars Area

IN Shaler

IN McKeesport Area

IN South Fayette

IN Mercer County

IN Upper St. Clair

IN Monroeville

IN West Jefferson Hills

IN Mt. Lebanon

IN West Mifflin

IN Murrysville

IN Woodland Hills