IN West Allegheny by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2010

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Powder Puff Football Game Raises Money for Local Families

Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions This Year Newbury â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Unique Place to Live and Work

Welcome to the premier issue of West Allegheny Magazine! You may be asking yourself, “What is this new magazine and why am I getting it?” Allow me to answer that. I founded Community Magazines over a decade ago with the belief that people want to read news about their community and the people who live and work there. They want positive, uplifting news and information about their municipalities and schools. We are supported entirely by advertising, not taxpayer dollars. While we do offer school districts and municipalities the opportunity to purchase pages in our magazines, we give them rates that, in most cases, are less than what they are paying to put out their own newsletters to constituents. We accept no advertising for alcohol, tobacco, or firearms. We can guarantee that what you read in our pages will be family-oriented, upbeat, and something that you can be proud of. In fact, we encourage you to submit your ideas for stories to our managing editor, Marybeth Jeffries, at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. What’s a good story? That depends on you! We routinely cover nonprofit organizations and the good they do in the community. We cover fundraising events. We feature local houses of worship. We want to know about the Boy or Girl Scout troop that’s working on a community project. We want to feature the team that makes WPIALs. We want to feature the team that is just starting out as a club sport. We’ve done features on centenarians, librarians, and veterinarians. If you think hard enough, I bet that you can think of at least one person who’s making a difference in your community. That’s what we want to know about. I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with you, West Allegheny!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

WINTER 2010 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. PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you. –TA BARON

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of West Allegheny. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don’t forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the West Allegheny community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope that your holiday will be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’ll be surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

www.incommunitymagazines.com Spring Issue Deadline: 1/9

Contents West Allegheny | WINTER 2010 |

Publisher’s Message FEATURES

Newbury A Unique Place to Live and Work | 8

| |

Real Estate in West Allegheny UPMC Today

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13 |

Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions | 21

| |

COMMUNITY INTEREST

| | | | |

Those Unwholesome Christmas Memories | 30 Volunteering Brings More Joy Than Imagined | 31

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

West Allegheny

Resolve to Keep Your

Resolutions This Year B

efore the last notes of “Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goes silent, chances are you’ll be suckered into making another New Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.

Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit over night is basically unrealistic. Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps, or realistic approaches to achievement. Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is a major factor in people not following through with their workout routines. “Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control your motivation and enthusiasm so you don’t burnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workout program every two to three months.” Hardt also said that figuring out where cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals.”

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout. “Most people think that starting out with cardio is good because it helps to warm up muscles before weight training. Other people feel starting out with cardio may cause too much fatigue, which could lower your workout intensity and make lifting with proper form more difficult,” she said. “Truthfully, there is no right or wrong answer. Different people will need to rotate their routine differently. The best advice is to pay attention to your fitness goals. If you are focused a bit more on endurance try to do your cardio first when you’ll have the most energy. On the other hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass,

work the weights first before cardio.” Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good idea, and while many people make it their New Year’s resolution to get back in shape, experts agree that any health program should be focused on progressive, attainable, and realistic goals. However, it’s also a great idea not to overindulge during the holidays in the first place. G aining 10 pounds after partying for a month, grazing cookies at the office and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for two weeks to negate those calories. While it's a cliche, moderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray or second glass of wine in the first place.

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Findlay Township

1271 Route 30 P.O. Box W Clinton, PA 15026 Phone: 724.695.0500 Fax: 724.695.1700 FindlayTwp@mindspring.com

Administration Township Manager Gary Klingman 724.695.0500 x244 gklingman@findlaytwp.org

Asst. Township Manager/Planning Administrator

Building Inspector

Planning Commission

Russ Collins 724.695.0500 x250 rcollins@findlaytwp.org

Information Meeting - 1st Monday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Wage/LST Tax Collector Barbara Coates 724.695.0521 bcoates@findlaytwp.org Dorothy McCullough 724.695.2995

Public Works Director John Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal 724.695.2801 jponeal@zoominternet.net

Municipal Authority Manager Jason Orsini 724.695.3108 jason@ftmunauth.com

District Magistrate Anthony Saveikis 724.695.2070

Township Secretary/Treasurer

Meetings

Admin. Asst/Planning Secretary Cynde Harris 724.695.0500 x247 charris@findlaytwp.org

Findlay Township Municipal (Water) Authority 724.695.3108

3rd Monday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Trash & Recycling - Waste Management 800.866.4460

Public Safety

Library

Findlay Township Police Department

Western Allegheny Community Library

Zoning Hearing Board

Real Estate Tax Collector

Christopher Caruso 724.695.0500 x248 ccaruso@findlaytwp.org Cheryl Rinehart 724.695.0500 x242 crinehart@findlaytwp.org

Regular Meeting - 4th Tuesday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Utilities

Board of Supervisors Caucus Meeting - 1st Thursday each month, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting - 2nd Wednesday each month, 7:00 p.m. Workshop Meeting - 4th Thursday each month, 7:00 p.m.

1271 Route #30, Clinton, Pennsylvania 15026 Emergency Number: 724 695.7777 OR 911 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.1300

Imperial Volunteer Fire Department 115 Main Street Imperial, PA 15126 Emergency Number: 724 695.7777 or 911 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.8845 staff@imperialvfd.org

8042 Steubenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.695.8150 Fax: 724.695.2860 Hours Mon: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Tue: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Wed: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Thu: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Fri: 10:00 - 4:00p.m. Sat: 9:00 - 4:00p.m. Sun: CLOSED

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

North Fayette Director of Community Development

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

West Allegheny

Mr. Brian Temple btemple@north-fayette.com 724.693.3107; 412.788.4888, ext.107

Public Works Director Mr. Victor Rogale vrogale@north-fayette.com

Real Estate Tax Collection Mr. Tom Falcioni 724.693.9366

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

Building Code Official/Code Enforcement Officer Mr. Mike Saville msaville@north-fayette.com Phone: 724.693.3106; 412.788.4888, ext. 106

Board of Supervisors Mr. Jim Morosetti, Chairman Mr. John Meyers, Vice-Chairman 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.

Public Safety North Fayette P.D. 400 North Branch Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.787.8900 Fax: 724.693.9814 Chief: Jeffrey Falconer

North Fayette Twp. Volunteer Fire Dept. Station 1 Business Office 7678 Stuebenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071-9300 Office: 412.787.2883 Fax: 412.787.3137 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

Oakdale Paul Hennemuth, Borough Council Vice President 110 Jade Drive Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9628

Administration Mayor Ross Rohbeck, 405 Clinton Avenue Extension Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.8382

Borough Solicitor Vince Tucceri, Esq. Gaitens, Tucceri and Nicholas 519 Court Place Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412.391.6920

Public Works Bob Patterson 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.9740 Fax: 724.693.0100

Real Estate Tax Collector Donna Swider P.O. Box 222 Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9889 realestate@oakdaleborough.com

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

Council Huck Gamble, Borough Council President 1 Highland Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9906

Keith Merlino, Councilman 16 Vincennes Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2844 Tom Potts, Councilman 305 Clinton Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 Bud Sturgeon, Councilman 4050 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2748

Public Safety 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 Emergency: 911

Utilities Water, Sewage, and Trash Services The Oakdale Borough 724.693.9740

Allegheny Power: 800.255.3443.

Columbia Gas: 888.460.4332

Comcast: 724.745.4734

Verizon: 800.660.2215

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WESTERN ALLEGHENY COMMUNITY LIBRARY Hours

Location

Mon: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Tue: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Wed: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Thu: 10:00 - 8:00p.m. Fri: 10:00 - 4:00p.m. Sat: 9:00 - 4:00p.m. Sun: CLOSED

8042 Steubenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.695.8150 Fax: 724.695.2860 westernalleghenylibrary.org

Just for Kids Story Times BOOK BABIES Book Babies is a 30 minute program designed for children from 6-24 months and their parent and caregiver. Fingerplays, songs, books and rhymes will help these children take their first steps towards a love of reading that will last a lifetime! Mondays

W.A.F.E.L - Western Area Friends to Enhance the Library We are pleased to welcome Lin and Ed Nalesnick as our new President and Vice-President.

About W.A.F.E.L

10:30-10:55a.m.

TODDLER TALES Toddler Tales is a 45 minute storytime designed for children from 2-3 1/2 years old and their parent or caregiver. Children will enjoy fingerplays, stories, crafts and fun!

W.A.F.E.L., the library’s “Friends group” has helped to build and support the Library since 1989. The Friends have a common concern for the Library‘s active participation in the community.

Mondays

How does W.A.F.E.L help?

Pre-K Kapers is an hour long program designed to help preschoolers become better prepared to face the challenges and excitement of Kindergarten.

Supports the library through fund raising to augment the library‘s budget Provides cash prizes for poetry contest Provides funding for summer reading programs Contributes money and manpower for programs throughout the year

W.A.F.E.L Membership New members are always welcome Membership privilege includes early entry to the Used Book Sales Meetings are held at the library on the second Monday of each month @ 7:00 p.m. Individual Membership $3.00 Family Membership $5.00

West Allegheny

11:30a.m.-12:15p.m.

PRE-K KAPERS

Tuesdays

1:30 - 2:30p.m.

Bodies In Motion Preschoolers ages 2 and up are invited to join us as we wiggle, giggle, move and groove! We’ll have stories, music, dancing... even parachuting! So put on your dancing shoes and head to the library for some super silly fun!!! Thursdays 1:30p.m.-2:15p.m. Check the Event Calendar for exact dates.

West Allegheny School District Mailing Address: P.O. Box 55 Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3422

Administration Superintendent John DiSanti jdisanti@westasd.org 724.695.5211

Asst. Supt. Curriculum - Inst. Chris Assetta cassetta@westasd.org 724.695.5204

Asst. Supt. Person Student Svcs. William Englert wenglert@westasd.org 724.695.5216

Business Manager Jerry Wessel jwessel@westasd.org 724.695.5212

Coordinator of Pupil Services Elaine Fitzgerald EFitzgerald@westasd.org 724.695.5221

Communications Coordinator Carol Bonnar cbonnar@westasd.org 724.695.5274

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

Schools

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT! Please submit your information, including a phone number and e-mail information to: marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or call 724.942.0940

West Allegheny High School 205 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Call Off: 724.695.1545 Phone: 724.695.7368 Fax: 724.695.8690 Principal: Daniel Smith

West Allegheny Middle School 207 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Call Off: 724.695.1583 Phone: 724.695.8979 Fax: 724.695.8211 Principal: Mr. Richard Smith

Donaldson Elementary School 600 Donaldson Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Call Off: 724.213.1013 Phone: 724.213.1010 Fax: 724.213.1002 Principal: Patricia Nolan

McKee Elementary School 1501 Oakdale Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Call Off: 724.695.5264 Phone: 724.693.8451 Fax: 724.693.0924 Principal: Thomas Orr

Wilson Elementary School 100 Bruno Lane Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3300 Call-Off Number: 724.695.1548 Fax: 724.695.0610 Principal: Mrs. Kathleen Sites

ADVERTISE HERE!

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REAL ESTATE IN West Allegheny

Want to List your home?

January is the perfect month to do it!

If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with the return of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home. January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said Lori Crandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker. “January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning of the spring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people get bored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to list in the spring shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a leg up on the spring market before it gets saturated.” While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foot traffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing. “The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really important that sellers go online themselves and look at the differences between brokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popular website for consumers.” Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said that some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a foot of snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in the winter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny.

It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. “During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst. Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should make those photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yard looks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring, but if we have the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back who can’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.”

West Allegheny

Other things that the winter provides advantages for include an opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether the home heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address. “There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a home warranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warranty and can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”

DON’T LET

Winter Slow You Down –

Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.

interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather – but there are some things that are just good sense. • Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start-up times until your engine is properly lubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months. • Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves. • If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress. Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. You can’t eliminate bad driving, however, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

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Powder Puff football Game RAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL FAMILIES The National Honor Society (NHS) sponsored its 26th annual West Allegheny High School junior/senior girls' powder puff football game on November 11. The seniors beat their younger competitors by a score of 32-6. The event, which is held as a fundraiser to benefit the NHS Christmas Families Charity, was held at West Allegheny’s Joe P. DeMichela Stadium. The NHS Christmas Families Charity identifies and helps families in need. It assists these families by using the profits from the powderpuff event and having students assemble food baskets and purchase gifts for the children of those families. “Last year we were able to buy presents and food for the families of 24 children,” says Suzanne Lamber, faculty advisor for the NHS. Once the money is collected through the ticket sales, members of the NHS purchase gifts that the children and teens want. “Once the gifts are purchased, the NHS has a wrapping party where we spend time wrapping the gifts,” says Lambert. This year’s event raised a total of $3,140 for the charity. Presents will be distributed to the families in mid-December.

West Allegheny Fourth Graders Make Drums To Study Sound Fourth grade students at West Allegheny's McKee Elementary School will be kicking off their "300 Drums" project on Friday, October 22, 2010, 1:45-2:45 p.m. with an assembly on the history of Native American drums and the importance of drums in the Native American culture. Elementary art teachers Claire March and Debbie Turici will introduce the students to the project in conjunction with a unit of study on sound included in the district science curriculum. Subsequent lessons on October 29 through November 5 at McKee will focus on demonstrating the role of sound in music. For example, students will create drums that mimic various sound waves and learn about the health and wellness of self-expression through the use of drums in music and art. Students will also experience sound waves 22

West Allegheny

via the Midi board and Mac computer. Students will use electronic media like flip cameras to document their studies. The video segments will be edited, titled, and aligned to music through the use of the software available on a Mac computer. The final video will be posted on You Tube so that schools across the world can benefit from observing these interdisciplinary activities. Funded by a $15,000 Grable Foundation STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Education Grant, this project will also be integrated into the fourth-grade curriculum at Donaldson and Wilson elementary schools later this fall. Grant recipients are required to collaborate with a community organization to integrate arts and technology across the academic disciplines. Therefore, the district will work on the study in conjunction with consultants from the Mesa Creative Art Center of Burgettstown.

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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Older Adults in West Allegheny A

Tax Planning for The New Year

by Jamie Ward mericans filing federal returns can Marzina says that the question many So you could give gifts of up to expect year-end tax planning to be $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay people are asking is this: If you have a bit more complicated this time around assets that have significant capital gains a tax on it. According to the IRS, You because we don't know what the tax rates can't deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left will be for 2011 just yet. The current to a charitable organization. rates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” Federal estate taxes may have been from 2001, are due to expire on Dec 31 repealed for 2010, but they are set to return of this year. on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% So when the new rates get passed, on estates valued at more than $1 million. taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here all assets got a “step-up” in basis when is to be prepared. someone died. This meant that no tax “For this year,” said Marzina, “it’s very would have to be paid on appreciated assets important that people be paying attention like stock and real estate. But under new to what happens in the political spectrum laws all assets inherited may be subject in terms of tax rates for the new year and to the capital gains tax. built in, should you accelerate taxes and If the current administration’s to make sure you have your advisers lined sell those assets in 2010 to ensure 15% up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” proposal to allow rates to expire and rate, instead of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%? return to 2009’s rate, the “step-up” in Each year, an individual is allowed The problem here is that taxpayers basis will return. Another proposal is to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they to have most of the current brackets stay won’t have a lot of time to make these decisions. According to Marzina, if the want to without being subject to a gift but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, new tax laws are in place by Dec 1st, tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill and taxes on dividends and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. The Republican there will only be a 30-day window to out a gift tax return, which goes against proposal is to extend current tax rates make any decisions this year. So the best the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Right now, for a period of 2 years and cap dividends thing to do is make those decisions and capital gains at 15%. as quickly as possible. this is not determined. 28

West Allegheny

How to Prevent Injury this Winter

by Jamie Ward

ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away

Senior Agencies

the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the

jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It’s the number one cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it’s a good idea to review

some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it. • If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.

Oakdale Senior Resource Center of LifeSpan 104 Seminary Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.8540 Fax: 724.693.2780

Hours of Operation: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. M–F Site Coordinator: Paul Belak email: oakdale@lifespanpa.org

Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced-rate transportation services to individuals who qualify: Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card. Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you. Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460.

And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, as a family member or neighbor to help you.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area. It serves primarily senior citizens and persons with disabilities. There are no restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their vehicle with others traveling in the same direction and at the same time. Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.

West Allegheny | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

West Allegheny

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined.

ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day. And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach. “I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains, “but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.” Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company. “Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh. Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives and share advice. “It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.” Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that gives her meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of her experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.” Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking for volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help with grocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling and yard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could use some assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol, families and groups are also welcome. To learn more or become a volunteer, visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071. “It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t say enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant for storytelling, though, he probably could. West Allegheny | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

West Allegheny

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT! Please submit your information, including a phone number and e-mail information to: marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or call 724.942.0940

Tips to Protect your Family from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Poorly Maintained or Malfunctioning Heating Systems Are Often to Blame As another heating season begins, the Allegheny County Health Department is joining with the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County to remind residents about the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that is the by-product of incomplete combustion of a fuel. Hundreds die each year nationwide from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, but most deaths could be prevented through greater awareness and education. Thirty-one accidental poisonings were reported countywide during last year’s heating season, October 1 through May 31. Twenty-four poisonings, including three deaths, were associated with heating systems or vehicles left running in enclosed spaces. Common sources of carbon monoxide are a malfunctioning or incorrectly vented furnace, hot water heater, space heater, fireplace, cooking stove or other type of fuel-burning equipment. Misusing a charcoal grill or a cooking stove to warm a house and leaving a car, van or truck running in an attached or integral garage are other possible carbon monoxide sources. To prevent carbon monoxide problems, furnaces and fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected before each heating season. Carbon monoxide home alarms can help as well, but are not foolproof and no substitute for regular furnace maintenance.

Carbon monoxide poisoning may include any of the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, loss of hearing, blurry vision, vomiting, disorientation, seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, respiratory failure and cardiac arrest. Everyone is at risk, but individuals with health problems such as heart or lung diseases, the elderly, infants, children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable. Anyone who experiences symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning should leave the premises and immediately call 911. The Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition (C-MAC) is offering a free brochure entitled “What You Should Know To Protect Your Family From Carbon Monoxide.” The brochure is available through the Allegheny County Health Department by calling 412.687.ACHD or visiting its web site at www.achd.net. C-MAC is a voluntary community service group that includes emergency, fire and health officials; natural gas utilities; instrument-testing companies; and heating contractors.

West Allegheny | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

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