WINTER 2011
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
p U s e k i r St The Band
West Allegheny
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WINTER 2011 PUBL ISHE R
Wayne Dollard MAN AGIN G EDITOR
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com RE GION AL EDITORS
Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Dana Black-McGrath [North] d.mcgrath@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com OF F ICE MANAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PL ACE MENT COORDINATOR
Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Welcome to the Winter issue of West Allegheny Magazine. I hope you and yours had a wonderful fall, that the kids transitioned back to school well, and that you had an opportunity to catch a few Steelers games along the way. We all view winter differently – some see it as the holiday season, some see it as the gloomy period when we long for the swim trunks and patio furniture we put into storage. Others see it as their opportunity to break out the skis and sleds and hit the slopes. No matter how you view it, winter is a time when we have to be the most diligent—despite our mood about snow, or our preoccupation with playing in it—for those who need us the most…our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many of them to get around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial of terror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will I get groceries? Will I be home before it’s too dark for me to see the road well enough to drive? And for those who have transitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be of an altogether different, but equally unsettling nature. Will anyone visit me for Christmas? Hanukah? New Years? These are our mothers, fathers, friends and neighbors, and they don’t like to ask anything of us. But they need us just the same. I know the economy is bad, and I’m not saying go out and spend money you don't have, but going caroling with a church group, or visiting someone who has no one is free to all of us. Chances are, you’ll not only put a smile on their face, you’ll be giving them something money can’t buy – the feeling that someone cares.
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
Have a joyous holiday and happy New Year!
W RIT E RS
Heather Holtschlage Kelly Lotter Leigh Lyons Joann Naser
Pamela Palongue Gina Salinger Judith Schardt
FROM THE EDITOR
PHOT OGRAPHERS
Brad Lauer Kathleen Rudolph
Gary Yon
PROOF RE ADER
Rachel Maize ADVE RT ISING SALES MANAGERS
Derek Bayer Tom Poljak
Tamara Myers
ADVE RT ISING SALES
Bruce Burkley Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graff Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri
Wayne Dollard Publisher
Aimee Nicolia Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases 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 content deadline: 1/23/12
Dovetailing off what Wayne said above, he’s right. Through college, I worked one of my parttime jobs as a waiter at Asbury Heights. And while Asbury is known as one of the better “old folks homes” out there, the great quality of the facility and staff couldn’t make up for what many of the residents didn’t have – family. Oftentimes, a new resident would show up in the dining room and feel out of place. Much like high school cafeterias, the two shifts of dinner were comprised of residents who had been together for years. They sat in the same seats at the same tables day after day and even ate the same dinners often enough that you knew what they were going to order before they had the chance to order it. New residents either had to be compellingly outgoing to break into an established crowd, or, more often than not, had to find an open seat and make friends with whoever sat across from them. Sometimes it worked out, sometimes not. But the most heartbreaking sight was around the holidays, when families would show up that you never saw throughout the course of the year – even though they were always welcome for dinner. Many residents had to sit alone, watching those families celebrate the season. I can’t read minds and say they felt sad or envious. But I can say that if it were me, I would be both. I’m not blameless. I have a grandmother in a local “old folks home” that I think of more than I visit, but I'm trying to do better. When we look around this holiday season and see the gifts in the stores or Santa riding on the fire truck and entertaining children in the malls, most of us should be thankful that we have people on our lists to buy for and with whom we can expect to share time together. Others don’t have that luxury, and haven’t for some time. We can all make someone smile this winter, so why not try? Feliz Navidad, Mark Berton
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Used cars find new purpose in securing employment for low-income families The morning commute for Loretta, a single mother with three children who recently moved her family into her mother’s two-bedroom apartment, used to be a daunting task. Each day she and her children rode the bus, stopping at daycare before Loretta reached her full-time job downtown. Thanks to Community Auto, a program of North Hills Community Outreach that pairs used cars with low-income drivers, Loretta’s commute has become much more manageable, and she feels her independence has been restored. Community Auto accepts donations of used cars, has them repaired and serviced by local mechanics and then offers them for purchase at prices well below market value. Four months ago, Loretta was able to buy a minivan. “Your program is such a blessing to so many people,” Loretta writes. Donors receive the maximum tax deduction allowable for the donation, as well as assurance that their car is directly helping a local family in need. Buyers benefiting from the program must meet income eligibility guidelines and work at least 25 hours per week. Community Auto encourages Pennsylvanians to BE A DRIVING CHANGE by donating used vehicles. Learn more at
communityauto.org or call 724-443-8300.
We would like to thank everyone who came to the Nutcracker performance this year! The show was phenomenal and we look forward to another season of great performances! We here at Pittsburgh Youth Ballet wish all of your families a magical Christmas and Happy New Year!
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West Allegheny
IN West Alleghenyis 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.
INSIDE
IN West Allegheny | WINTER 2011 |
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FEATURES
Striving for Olympic Gold ................ | 16 Settler’s Cabin/Montour Trail to Receive Funding ............................. | 32 Honeymoon Travel Romance at a Price You Can Afford ............... | 46
Alternative Energy Choices ............. | 41 ON THE COVER
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Older Adults in West Allegheny Caring Choices for Caring Seniors ................. | 44
West Allegheny was one of many bands competing in the annual Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
The Vein Institute of Pittsburgh .... | 15
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16
COMMUNITY INTEREST
West Allegheny School District ............................................
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West Allegheny High School Competes in PIMBA Event .......................
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8
Oakdale Celebrates Light-up Night .....................................
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12
Fifth Grader makes Headlines Singing National Anthem ........................
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UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ...........
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Resident on the Street Carl Pia.................................................................................................
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We Love Our Log Cabins .........................................................
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New Earned Income Tax Procedures Leave the Collecting to Employers ..................................................
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Calvacade of Bands
Shane Treloar
FEATURE
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT SPONSORS PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNITION NIGHT STS WILSON LIBRARY HO POET IN RESIDENCE
er of A Child’s Voice, a Bill Buczinsky, found ages 97 to help children of all company created in 19 ted a ir poetic powers, presen discover and develop the School ry nta m to Wilson Eleme b site Poet in Residence progra We his on 21-23. Described and students on September er, rm rfo pe try.com as a poet, at www.hilds-voice-poe , ces an rm rfo live poetry pe teacher, Buczinsky uses edia products in his ltim mu workshops, and presentations. began with large group His residency program l of music, drama, and poetry performances ful etry dents to the basics of po whimsy to introduce stu ky ing shows, Buczins writing. After the open hops where students rks conducted poetry wo ages, invent effective learn to create vivid im ical devices before metaphors and other lyr ems. composing their own po g school tin sen pre to ion In addit s written several programs, Buczinsky ha ge World – A books including Stran Fish, and Pied Poetic Journey, Kiss The Wilson ll, Poetry. Nancy Howe g the tin ina librarian, is coord visit.
Prior to the October 7 West Allegheny High School football game against Moon Area, the athletic department honored local fire, police, emergency medical services and military personnel at its first Public Service Recognition Night at Joe P. DeMichela Stadium. At the ceremony, David McBain, athletic director, acknowledged the contributions of this large group of local professionals, both paid and volunteer, who dedicate their efforts to protecting the families and businesses in the West Allegheny community. The invitation from the athletic department requested that one member of each group be designated as its representative and be dressed in the uniform that reflects his or her specific affiliation. Participants' names were announced along with the unit they represent, and they were recognized at midfield as first responders in a crisis, willing to sacrifice their own safety to help others in need. The event was designed to express appreciation for the selfless acts of heroism by these individuals that too often go unnoticed.
WEST ALLEGHENY CAVALCADE OF BANDS FEATURES NINE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BANDS The West Allegheny High School Marching Band and Band Parents hosted the 32nd annual Cavalcade of Bands Competition at the high school stadium on Oct. 22. The following marching bands competed in classes grouped by numbers of musicians: Beaver, Blackhawk, Burgettstown, Central Valley, Fox Chapel, Mars, McGuffey, Moon, Norwin, Plymouth Whitemarsh (from Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania), Serra Catholic, Southmoreland, Springdale and Trinity. Montour and West Allegheny performed in the festival classification. Judges rated and ranked the bands in the areas of music, visual effect, and general effect.
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West Allegheny
West Allegheny’s 2011-2012 show was titled “Peace, Love and Music” which included “Aquarius,” “Eleanor Rigby” and “MacArthur Park.” The Drum Majors this year are senior Rebecca Will and junior Joey Bandi.
WEST ALLEGHENY MIDDLE SCHOOL TIES FOR FIRST PLACE AT HISTORY BOWL The West Allegheny Middle School Horizons team consisting of Christina Sible, Sarah Behr, Moira Gibson, and Jackie Patton tied with St. Edmunds School for first place at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Heinz History Bowl on Nov 1. Both teams scored a total of 90/95 points. This is the first time West Allegheny has earned top honors in this competition in which 56 teams, comprised of 224 students from 16 schools including Montour, Moon, Keystone Oaks, St. Edmunds, and Woodland Hills Academy, competed. Also representing West Allegheny in the event were Angela Martelli, Sarah Steward, Hannah Salvucci, Trent Michaels, Yash Lahoti, Garrett Powell, Anden Acitelli, and Billy Robertson. Their teams scored 82 and 83 overall, finishing in the top fifteen. Middle school Horizons teacher Joe Villani accompanied the students. The competition consisted of four interactive events: American Flag Timeline, Writing a Letter Home, Sports Reporter, and What Is It? The students worked together for each event to complete a variety of tasks.
Heinz History Bowl First Place team: Sixth grader Jackie Patton and seventh graders Moira Gibson, Sarah Behr, and Christina Sible For example, in the sports writer activity, students had to pick a famous athlete and create and answer ten questions about that person. They were then graded on the creativity and originality of the questions and on spelling and grammar as well.
West Alleg heny Celebrates American Education Week
West Allegheny School District stu dents and staff celebrated Americ an Education Week during the week of Nov. 14-18 wit h a variety of activities. Throughou t the week stu dents participated in a short writing proj ect. Focusing on careers in educat ion, they wrote about one or both of the following topics: “What I would do if I wer e the principal” and “What I would do if I were the teacher.” On Friday, all staff members were invited to wear a tee shirt or sweatshirt from the college or univ ersity they attende d or the branch of the military in which the y ser ved. Plans also include d recognition of teachers, support staf f, and administrators during the week. WAEA provide d a cake to honor the school board at the November board meeting. Celebrating its 90th anniversary, American Education Week is one of the longest-running observances in the country. At West Allegheny the festivities were spo nsored by the West Allegheny Teachers (WAEA), with support from the district and the educational support staff. For more information, contact McKee kindergarten teache rs Mariann Winning or Chris Pratt, WAEA co-chairs for Am erican Education Week.
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
West Allegheny Students Pioneers in Virtual Academy
A
pproximately 15 West Allegheny School District students are pioneers charting new educational territories as the district launched its West Allegheny Virtual Academy this fall. The academy combines the freedom and flexibility of cyberschools with the benefits of a so-called brick and mortar building for the fulltime students. “They can take their classes online because it’s better for them, but they can still be involved in their school,” said John DiSanti, district superintendent. “They are part of the West Allegheny community. They receive a West Allegheny diploma and they can participate in West Allegheny activities.” Run through a contract with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, district officials hope the academy will prompt some of the students, who currently attend classes through other cyberschool programs, to return to West Allegheny. The district utilizes several different vendors to provide courses, and certain vendors allow districts to "tweak" the curriculum. With these options, the content being taught is similar, but the method of learning is vastly different than a standard classroom. Some student prefer to wear a headset and speak with teachers and other students. They also can set up appointments during posted office hours to meet with instructors or arrange one-on-one sessions for further help or clarification. Other students prefer to work on their own through text-based classes supplemented with applicable videos for certain courses. Unlike outside cyberschools, the academy also allows district officials to keep tabs on how students are doing, said DiSanti. Each week the district and the student receive a report with their grade to date and district officials are
6 724.942.0940 to advertise |
notified if multiple days of inactivity occur. For taxpayers, the academy is a significant cost savings. Average per pupil cost in West Allegheny is $9,730, and that cost almost doubles for a special education student. When a student chooses to attend a cyberschool outside of the district, those funds go with them. Prior to the academy's start, district officials had projected a loss of $595,000 this school year due to cyberschool costs, said DiSanti. “It is becoming more and more significant. As those dollars leave the district, it hinders our ability to provide quality programs.” The academy costs are approximately
West Allegheny
$3,600 or a bit higher than one-third of the average per pupil costs for normal day-today students. In the future, the academy could expand to provide different options for students, allowing them to take more classes and clear their schedules for more educational opportunities, said DiSanti.. A total of three high school students currently utilize the academy for individualized, advanced courses online. “We foresee expanding it, if there are scheduling conflicts and we are looking at providing opportunities for advancement as well.”
West Allegheny School District 2012 Midwinter Calendar JANUARY 2
JANUARY 19
FEBRUARY 7
FEBRUARY 19
No School - Winter Break
End of Second 9 Weeks First Semester Ends
DE PTA Market Day Pickup, 5-6 p.m. DE/ME/WE Olweus Anti-Bullying Tee Shirt Day DE - PTA Barnes & Noble Book Fair
HS Musical Camp, 1-9 p.m.
JANUARY 3 DE/ME/WE Olweus Anti-Bullying Tee Shirt Day School Resumes JANUARY 4 MS NAL Game JANUARY 9 HS Swim/Dive Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. HS/MS Boys’ Basketball Boosters Mtg. JANUARY 10
JANUARY 23 HS Preschool Classes Begin for 3-year olds Morning session: 8:30-10:30, Afternoon session: 11:30-1:30 (Mon., Tues., & Thurs. following the district calendar) Classes end the week of May 7. West Allegheny High School Family & Consumer Science Suite
Communications Advisory Committee, 3:30 p.m. HS Girls’ Soccer Boosters Mtg., 6 p.m. MS Geography Bee JANUARY 11
JANUARY 25
Board Committee Mtg., 7:30 p.m. HS Boys Baseball Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. McKee PTA Meeting, 7 p.m. McKee Elementary School MS Geography Bee MS NAL Game
HS/MS Volleyball Boosters Mtg. DE Horizons Science Bowl MS NAL Game
ME PTA Market Day Pickup, 5:30-6:30 p.m. JANUARY 27 ME PTA Talent Show ME PTA Yearbook Sale ends
JANUARY 13 JANUARY 28 HS SAT at WA JANUARY 16 ME PTA Yearbook Sale begins In-Service - No School Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday JANUARY 17 HS/MS Cheerleading Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. HS/MS Football Boosters Mtg., 7:30 p.m. Wellness Committee Mtg. DE PTA Market Day Pickup, 5-6 p.m. JANUARY 18 Board Mtg., 7:30 p.m. WE PTA Market Day Pickup, 6-7 p.m. MS NAL Game
HS National College Fair For Juniors only. Must pre-register, follow guidelines from the guidance office and provide own transportation. Convention Center MS NAL Game
JANUARY 30 DE PTA Sarris Easter Candy Sale begins FEBRUARY 1 HS Key Club Bean Bag for Babies Sale begins
WE PTA Cake Boss Fund-raiser, 6 p.m.
DE PTA Meeting HS/MS Cheerleading Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. HS/MS Football Boosters Mtg., 7:30 p.m. MS PTA Market Day Pickup, 6:15-7:15 p.m. West Allegheny Middle School FEBRUARY 23
HS Key Club Bean Bag for Babies Sale ends
FEBRUARY 24 DE PTA Talent Show
FEBRUARY 11 HS ACT Test
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 13
HS Forensics PHSSL Dist. State Qual. Tournament
HS Swim/Dive Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. HS/MS Boys’ Basketball Boosters Mtg. FEBRUARY 26 DE PTA Sarris Easter Candy Sale ends HS Musical Picture Day, 1-5 p.m. FEBRUARY 14
FEBRUARY 27
HS Girls’ Soccer Boosters Mtg., 6 p.m. DE/ME/WE Valentine’s Day Parties
FEBRUARY 27 - MAR. 3
FEBRUARY 15
FEBRUARY 15- 19 HS Vermont Ski Club Trip WE PTA Market Day Pickup, 6-7 p.m.
FEBRUARY 15-19 HS Vermont Ski Club Trip ME PTA Family Bingo In-Service - No School FEBRUARY 18 HS Musical Camp 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Read Across America Week FEBRUARY 29
Board Mtg., 7:30 p.m.
FEBRUARY 17
FEBRUARY 2
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 10
FEBRUARY 1- 10 Key Club Fundraiser Selling bean bag animals for March of Dimes. West Allegheny High School MS NAL Game
HS Musical Camp, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Presidents’ Day - No School Snow Make-Up Day
ME PTA Market Day Pickup, 5:30-6:30 p.m. MS Gr. 8 Orientation at HS
JANUARY 26
JANUARY 12
HS Deadline for 2/11 ACT Test
Board Committee Mtg., 7:30 p.m. HS Boys Baseball Boosters Mtg., 7 p.m. McKee PTA Meeting, 7 p.m. McKee Elementary School HS FAFSA Workshop, 7 p.m. FEBRUARY 8- 9
JANUARY 24 WE PTA Meeting, 6:30 p.m. MS PTA Market Day Pickup, 6:15-7:15 p.m. West Allegheny Middle School HS Bands Winter Concert, 7 p.m.
HS Junior College Workshop, 7 p.m. MS Geography Bee
FEBRUARY 8
FEBRUARY 20
HS/MS Volleyball Boosters Mtg. HS Honor Roll Ski Trip Employee Recognition Dinner, 6 p.m.
n, o i t a m r o inf For more t at c i r t s i d the contact go to r o 2 2 4 3 724.695. .org. d s a t s e www.w
West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
d a C e a v l Ca of BANDS
Photos by Gary Yon
West allegheny High School Competes in PIMBa event Bands from all over Western Pennsylvania gathered at the West Allegheny High School Stadium Oct. 22 to compete in the annual Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association event. Founded in 1996, PIMBA began with seventeen founding member bands for the purpose of providing the philosophical and organizational structure for
marching band field competitive events in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The goals of PIMBA include: to promote participation in marching band field events; to promote the art form of competitive marching band based on fundamental principles of music education; and, to promote cooperation and respect among all bands, directors, staffs, student members, parents, parent organizations, adjudicators and all others affiliated with the organization.
COMPETING BANDS FOR THE 2011 SEASON INCLUDED: BEAVER AREA BLACKHAWK BURGETTSTOWN AREA CENTRAL VALLEY DEER LAKES 8 724.942.0940 to advertise |
EAST ALLEGHENY FOX CHAPEL AREA GATEWAY KISKI AREA MARS AREA West Allegheny
MCGUFFEY MOON AREA NORWIN PENN TRAFFORD SERRA CATHOLIC
SOUTHMORELAND SPRINGDALE TRINITY WEST ALLEGHENY WOODLAND HILLS
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Fifth Grader makes headlines singing
National Anthem Fifth grade McKee Elementary student Shane Treloar was invited to sing the National Anthem prior to the start of the West Allegheny football game against Upper St. Clair Sept. 23. While other youngsters will be recognized at the game for their athletic aďŹƒliations as part of the district's annual Youth Recognition Night, David McBain, athletic director said Treloar was being featured for his vocal talent. Treloar 's rendition of the national anthem at a recent Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game attracted a flurry of local and national media attention. Since then, WTAE-TV aired his performance and interviewed him on a newscast. The national television show
10 724.942.0940 to advertise |
"SportsCenter" also ran Treloar singing "The StarSpangled Banner" as a game highlight. He also appeared on the "Pittsburgh Today" television show where he sang the national anthem again and did some tap dancing as well. In another large-audience performance, Treloar sang "God Bless America" at a Washington Wild Things baseball game in Washington, Pennsylvania in August 2011.
West Allegheny
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
OAKDALE NEWS BRIEFS
Oakdale Celebrates
Light-Up Night
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West Allegheny
est Allegheny School District students at Wilson Elementary School feted the McAdowMcAdams Wilson log house during We Love Our Log House Week in October. The annual weeklong By Amanda S.F. Hartle — celebration kicked off with principal story and photos Kathy Sites dressed in authentic period attire proclaiming the kick off of educational activities related to colonial, pioneer and Native American life and ended with a day full of hands-on learning for kindergarten through fifth-grade students. “We have this historic building on our property and this is a way to honor our area and the log house,” said Sites. During the celebration’s final day, staff and volunteers offered students 17 different activities and talks. Activities ranged from making johnny cakes, applesauce, butter and funnel cakes to creating punched-tin crafts with hammers and nails and handmade dipped candles. Students also took part in square dancing lessons, pioneer games and discussions on medicinal herbs and Native American culture after playing stringed instruments and singing authentic, pioneer songs. The McAdow-McAdams Wilson house sits at the elementary school’s entrance and is used as a historic learning center for West Allegheny students as well as students from neighboring districts. The house was built in the 1770s and was restored in the mid-1980s. It is the only existing log house in Findlay Township, according to West Allegheny’s website.
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We Love our log cabin
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
We Love our log cabin
14 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins. Should I Have My Veins Evaluated? Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST: While finishing charts at the end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staff answer questions for a patient on the phone. The questions asked were very important as were the answers that were given. Here are some examples:
What is Phlebology? Phlebology is the branch of medicine that deals with veins and the disease of veins. Two organizations dedicated to the advancement of this field are The American College of Phlebology and the American Venous Forum.
Why should I see a board- certified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veins When it comes to any aspect of your health care, it is important to be proactive in the choice and research of who will become medically responsible for your evaluation and treatment. Though venous disease is not always a visible ailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to more serious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certified phlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision. Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician who has taken the extra step of becoming specialized in the treatment of venous disease. Not only is the physician often a member of organizations such as the American College of Phlebology (ACP) and the American Venous Forum (AVF) but they have met additional requirements set by the certifying board. After meeting these requirements, he or she must then pass a certifying exam allowing the physician to identify him or herself as board-certified.
Is membership the same as board certification? This question is particularly important as it defines the specialty of a phlebologist. While a physician may be a member of many different organizations, these organizations only require an interest in the field for joining. Thus membership is unlike board certification where qualification is determined through training and testing. Here’s how the ACP defines its board certification: “The establishment of a Board Certification Exam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology and those providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills and experience to provide quality care to phlebology patients.”
I had a free screening at a health fair and was told that I don't have venous disease, but I still have aching, pain and discoloration at the ankles. What should I do? While free screenings can be informative, remember that this is just a brief glance into a patient's venous system. A complete venous exam and venous mapping by a 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 venous ultrasound should be performed by a trained physician or a registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT) and then interpreted by a physician.
If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office? Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘ free’ because patients are often not meeting with a physician, a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner, so this visit cannot be billed to insurance. However, most insurances allow for a second opinion. If you have any questions about the second opinion being covered, contact member services on the back of your insurance card.
This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.
724-934-VEIN (8346)
Terrance R. Krysinski, MD General Surgeon Board Certified Phlebologist Vein Institute of Pittsburgh 724.934.VEIN (8346)
t West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
West Allegheny Aqua Club
Striving for Olympic Gold,
s t e r n oke o
at a time
By Elissa Emmerling
With more than 42 years of coaching experience under his belt, head coach Bob Miller is hoping to send one of the West Allegheny Aqua Club’s swimmers off to the Olympic trials. And with his brimming enthusiasm, that goal may come at the end of the 2011-12 season. While optimistic, Miller is also seasoned and realistic. He has been swimming since he was ten, and has been the West Allegheny Aqua Club’s head coach for more than 30 years. He’s worked his way up from an assistant coach and has worked in and around the pools of the YMCA, various middle and high schools, colleges and different community swimming clubs. His experience not only allows him to keep the times down on the kids he coaches, but also to keep a good rapport with the board members so that he is able to run the club effectively. “I have lucked out, because the board lets me run the club,” he said. “For the past 18 seasons, we have gotten along really well.” With just over 100 members, the West Allegheny Aqua Club is relatively small compared to North Allegheny, Fox Chapel, and Peters who have approximately 200 members each. The ratio of male to female swimmers is about 60 to 30, female to male. Coach Miller said there are always more female swimmers than males, and it is rarely ever 50-50. “Most of our boys are 8-years-old and go up to 8th grade. We do not have too many older boys,” Coach Miller remarked. About 85 percent of the members at the West Allegheny Aqua Club belong to the West Allegheny School District, while 15 percent of the swimmers are out of district from places such as Hopewell, Beaver, South Fayette, Montour,
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West Allegheny
Weirton, and Steubenville, OH. The fact that they are willing to commute to compete with the club demonstrates just a fraction of the dedication and pride the swimmers have. Their schedules are rigorous and demanding. Miller said that consistency is something he stresses to each swimmer. “They are talented and we demand a lot from them,” he said. “It’s a tough schedule, and they work really hard at it. They are young, talented girls who also have high honors in school. Most of their GPAs tend to be 3.6 or 3.7.” Swimmers practice two to three mornings before school from 5:15 to 7:00 a.m. After school, they practice from 2:45 to 5:45 p.m., and on Saturdays they practice in the mornings from 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. They also work out in the weight room three days a week. Swim meets usually are on Sundays. Because of their hard work and dedication, the club has garnered some positive recognition over the past decade. Miller also emphasized that teams are strong when there is “consistent coaching.” He mentioned his first five to six years at the Aqua Club it was hard to find compatible
coaches to work with, but now that he has established a strong coaching team. Some of those coaches are former swimmers for the club. “They took pride in their program, and now 12 to 18 years later, they’ve come back to work with me,” he said. “Team work is everything for us. It gives the swimmers a sense of belonging. They want to do well because they don’t want to let their team and friends down. The team promotes success and motivation.” Now that the coaching is stable and robust,
Miller said he can now focus on developing individual swimmers in the hopes of grooming them for that Olympic trial dream. “Last year, the high school team was second in the states,” he said. “Of course, there’s always room to develop more. Getting to the Olympic trials will be a lot of hard work. But I hope, by the end of the high school season, one or two girls will be going there.” For more information on the club, and to find the 2011-12 swim schedule, go to: www.waswim.org.
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P.A.L.S. Hosts
Golf Outing 1
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wenty-three golf foursomes showed their love and commitment to improving the lives of Special Needs Children when they participated in the first P.A.L.S. Golf Outing at Quick Silver Golf Club. Hosted by The North Fayette Parks and Recreational Association and P.A.L.S. (Providing Assistance, Love and Support) Volunteers, the event raised over $10,000 for recreational programs in the West Allegheny Area. Having volunteered for Variety, The Children’s Charity of Pittsburgh, for the past eight years, Bob Brozovich, North Fayette Parks and Recreation Director introduced P.A.L.S. to the community last year. He was motivated to do something after viewing 2009 statistics from The PA Department of Education. The West Allegheny School District reported that 15 percent of enrolled students had disabilities. More recreational and social programs were needed for kids who struggled in mainstream sports and activities. “Last spring, I advertised in our newsletter if there was anyone interested in meeting to begin to provide recreational programming for children with special needs,” said. Brozovich, who also helped organize the golf outing. “The announcement met with great enthusiasm and by September we had organized our first picnic that attracted over 100 people.” Some of the events for the kids included a Halloween Party, Christmas Party and Easter Egg Hunt. Also featured is a Friday Night Recreational Program where West Allegheny Teams and Coaches volunteer to teach soccer, basketball, roller hockey and football to the kids. “P.A.L.S. is such a great outlet for the kids
at Quick Silver Golf Club
and the parents,” said Harry Psaros, P.A.L.S. Golf Outing Organizer and the parent of Special Needs Children. “Sometimes you and your family feel ostracized when you’re in social situations and activities. We didn’t know any of these people in P.A.L.S. and now they are like family to us; they make you feel so
comfortable.” Membership includes approximately 50 children and their families. New families are always welcome to join. “My philosophy is that no matter what a child’s special need or disability; kids just want to be kids and have fun,” said Brozovich. “Our
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program allows them to have fun and involves friends and family too.” To learn more about P.A.L.S., or how you can join or volunteer, please go to the North Fayette Township’s website at www.north-fayette.com.
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1. Mike Monoco 2. Harry Psaros, Chris Unger, Bob Brozovich, P.A.L.S. Golf Outing Committee Members 3. Michelle Psaros, Nicole and Deanna Pellegrino 4. Linda Muller, Kelly Cain, Michelle Psaros, Deanna Pellegrino, Melissa Zirwas and Bob Brozovich, P.A.L.S Volunteers 5. Deb Ross and Her Peoples Natural Gas Coworkers 6. Jen Wertz, Tina Fortunato, Melissa Vaughn, Mandy Gratz 7. Jeff and Melissa Zirwas
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WINTER 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
BundleUp,Baby Remember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands. Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.
What’s Inside
© 2011 UPMC
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UPMC Now Offers Imaging Services in West Mifflin
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When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen
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Make a Date with Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat
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Technology for 21st Century Hospitals
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Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC
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Changes Continue to Transform UPMC Mercy Emergency Dpeartment
UPMC Now Offers Imaging Services in West Mifflin For West Mifflin area residents, the new UPMC West Mifflin facility is bringing UPMC’s high quality care, including the latest in imaging technology, right to their doorstep. “We understand that not everyone can or wants to travel outside their community for treatment or a particular test,” says Stephanie Pankow, administrative director of UPMC West Mifflin. “Our communities and neighborhoods are at the heart of what makes Pittsburgh such a special place to live and work. Helping to keep them strong and healthy is important to us,” adds Ms. Pankow. Located at 1907 Lebanon Church Road in West Mifflin (near Century Square), the new facility is home to the UPMC Cancer Centers, Quest Diagnostics, and UPMC Imaging Services. The new facility also features comfortable and attractive waiting and testing areas, as well as free parking.
Onsite, subspecialty trained radiologists provide your doctor with fast, high-quality readings, important results your doctor uses in making an accurate diagnosis and crafting a treatment plan. “Physicians in the UPMC network can choose to get their patient’s imaging results electronically,” says Ms. Pankow.
“Our communities and neighborhoods are at the heart of what makes Pittsburgh such a special place to live and work. Helping to keep them strong and healthy is important to us.” — Stephanie Pankow
The care you need — close to home Whether your doctor suspects a broken pinky finger and wants a quick x-ray or your specialist has ordered a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound, UPMC West Mifflin gives residents easy access to a wide range of imaging services.
“UPMC West Mifflin has the most advanced imaging technology available, including a state-of-the-art 64-slice CT scanner that is faster and offers more accurate images,” says Melissa Kovtun, executive director of Imaging Services. Imaging services available onsite include:
Moving the well-established UPMC Cancer Centers to the new UPMC West Mifflin location adds to patient convenience and comfort by making imaging services available nearby. “Patients can be assured that all of the center’s advanced cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment options still will be offered — just in a different location,” says Ms. Pankow. UPMC West Mifflin 1907 Lebanon Church Road West Mifflin, PA 15122 Imaging Services Phone: 412-653-8030 Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday by appointment UPMC Cancer Center Phone: 412-653-8100 Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• MRI • CT • General/Vascular • General Radiology (including x-rays) • Ultrasound
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For more information about UPMC West Mifflin, visit UPMC.com.
When Your BodyTalks…
Be Sure toListen Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection and treatment of cancer and other serious medical problems Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can be an excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms. There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions. That’s why you should call your primary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lasting longer than two or three weeks, says Edward Chu, MD, chief of the Division of Hematology/ Oncology at UPMC and deputy director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. “The vast majority of patients will get a clean bill of health from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu. “But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”
Symptoms that reveal Most of us know to be on the lookout for such important cancer warning signs as a sore that does not heal; a thickening or lump in the breast, or other parts of the body; blood in the stool or urine; or changes in the size or color of a mole.
Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalized body changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that can compromise your physical performance and overall well-being. By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll be better able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur. They can include: • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) • Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more) or loss of appetite • Changes in how food tastes • Fever and chills • Night sweats • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing “These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.” If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Did You Know? The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), based at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, is the only National Cancer Institutedesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania. Learn more about UPCI and its partnership with UPMC Cancer Centers at UPCI.UPMC.edu.
Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you? Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. “When combined with regular checkups with your family doctor or specialist, screenings like mammograms, PAP smears, and colorectal exams have proven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer,” says Eric Safyan, MD, of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC Mercy. “Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age, and other considerations will help your physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.” To learn more about the programs and services at UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com.
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Make a Date With Your Doctor You take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving your body the same kind of attention? When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep. “Your annual exam is the perfect time to talk with your doctor about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any recommended screenings,” says Timothy Campbell, MD, of Campbell/Philbin Medical Associates PC and UPMC Mercy. “That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or make changes to improve your health.” Building an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) also means peace of mind. “There’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency,” adds Dr. Campbell.
Your exam checklist How can you make the most of your annual exam? Here are four things to do before you see the doctor:
1. Make a list of all medications you are taking Include all prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.
2. Update your family history Your family history can provide important clues about your risk for certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, and heart disease.
3. Ask about health screenings Screenings can be important tools in preventing some illnesses and diseases. Get a list of recommended screenings and talk about them with your doctor.
4. Make a list of questions or health concerns Asking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care. One final piece of advice: Be honest. “Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something,” adds Dr. Campbell. “What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.”
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Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat Winter is the season for sniffles, scratchy throats, and earaches — often all at once! And with good reason: our ears, nose, and throat all are connected and affect each other greatly. Otolaryngologists (also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in caring for this complex, interrelated system. Test your ENT knowledge with this quick quiz:
Who gets earaches more often — children or adults? Nearly every child experiences at least one ear infection between infancy and the age of five — something weary parents know firsthand. Because children have shorter, straighter Eustachian tubes (which connect the nose to the ears), it’s easier for bacteria to migrate into their ears.
Why are you more likely to get a nosebleed in winter? The same heated indoor air that makes your home cozy in winter also can dehydrate the inside of your nose. It can become crusted or cracked, or can even bleed. A dry nose makes you more susceptible to germs, so exercise good nose care. Lightly coat the inside with petroleum jelly. Overthe-counter saline mists and sprays (not decongestants) also are helpful.
Will antibiotics cure laryngitis? Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that make the vocal cords swell — so antibiotics are ineffective. Your best course of action? Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and cut back on talking. Straining your voice when you have acute laryngitis can damage your vocal cords. Source: American Society of Otolaryngology
Technology for 21st Century Hospitals How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital. “UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer for UPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.” Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.
SmartRoom® technology brings it all to you Launched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology. SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerized software programs give caregivers fingertip access to all the information essential to your care — from your electronic medical records to the tests you’ll need that day.
The SmartRoom concept simplifies workflow and makes documentation of your care faster and easier. Each room has two screens: one for your caregivers, and another for you to access email, entertainment, and a vast library of patient education videos and information.
The right meds at the right time “It is our goal to make the hospitalization and discharge experience as stress-free as possible for our patients and their families,” says Jacqueline Dailey, UPMC’s vice president for Solutions for Medical Science, Research, and Patient Centered Accountable Care. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital, they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in their medications and how to take them.” “We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessment of your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminated during your stay, this information is instantly available to all your physicians — from your family doctor to the specialists caring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acute care.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medication orders from your doctors. Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”
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Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC That’s especially difficult for adolescents who want to fit in. Tics, such as throat clearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain.
Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing with action figures alone in his Pitcairn home, when the tics began — involuntary arm flicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.
At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts: two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.
Tom and Amy Barnishin first thought their son’s behavior was linked to the start of the school year and peer pressure. When symptoms grew worse, and other tics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) in January 2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.
Be in the know about TS Treatment varies.While there’s no cure, medication sometimes helps control tics. Psychologists can teach habit reversal and relaxation techniques to help patients cope with stress and reduce symptoms. But the most important treatment is education, says Dr. Coffman. “That includes educating families, educators, and the general public about TS.”
Diagnosing Tourette syndrome TS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys. The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throatclearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include two or more motor tics and at least one vocal tic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.
Did You Know? An estimated 200,000 Americans have TS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder. For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inherited neurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.
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Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics. They experience a sensation that makes them feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.
Other TS facts include: • TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population. • People in every walk of life, including professional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS. • Less than 15 percent of TS patients swear or use inappropriate expressions.
“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven, now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment. The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support. “Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, we were part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom. To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as the service, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.
Changes Continue to Transform UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Recently completed makeover cuts wait times with focus on care UPMC Mercy’s Emergency Department (ED) has put the finishing touches on a major expansion and renovation project with the opening of a new patient observation unit in December. Known as a Clinical Decision Unit (CDU), the 17-bed facility provides a special transitional area for patients — including those with chest pain, asthma, or abdominal pain — who need more time for treatment or testing before a decision is made to discharge or admit them. Patients will stay in the CDU while awaiting their test results, freeing up beds for other emergency and admitted patients, says Michael Turturro, MD, chief of Emergency Services at UPMC Mercy. “All of our ED improvements focus on enhancing the patient care experience. We’re treating patients more quickly, more efficiently, and more comfortably,” Dr. Turturro says.
Expanded capacity Before the 18-month expansion and renovation project began, the UPMC Mercy ED treated approximately 45,000 patients annually. Last year, the ED reported 70,000 patient visits. Now averaging nearly 200 patients a day, UPMC Mercy’s ED is on track to see at least 73,000 patients this year. The new ED, with 36 beds, also has created more capacity by improving its efficiency. “But no matter how many rooms or beds we add, there are always challenges,” says Valerie Krasneski-Schreiber, RN, BSN, MS, unit director of UPMC Mercy’s ED. “Our top priority is to deliver safe patient care quickly and more efficiently.”
New Super Track: Quick assessments and streamlined care Key to achieving that goal is a redesigned reception area staffed by a clinical nurse who makes quick assessments and assigns patients to one of three levels of emergency care. Dr. Turturro says ED patients now move from the reception area to a treatment room within an average of 10 minutes of arrival.
In addition, the Mercy ED’s innovative new Super Track concept offers speedy care for patients with minor injuries and illnesses needing less urgent care — moving them through treatment to discharge in under an hour. “With Super Track, our goal is to ensure that patients who come to the ED with minor injuries and illnesses quickly get back to their lives after receiving prompt, comprehensive care,” says Tom Gronow, MHA, vice president of operations at UPMC Mercy.
Faster lab results Another important ED upgrade is the addition of a mini-lab providing critical point-of-care-testing for ED patients. That means faster urine tests, rapid strep, blood analysis, and other key tests that can speed up treatment. “Having test results in minutes absolutely makes a difference,” says Ms. Krasneski-Schreiber. “In stroke patients, for example, time is of the essence. We need vital information to make the right decisions and act quickly.” Other ED improvements include: • Thirty-six newly renovated treatment bays • Two new state-of-the-art trauma resuscitation bays for treating the most acutely injured patients • A new 128-slice CT scanner offering the latest imaging technology with faster scanning capability • An expanded and modernized patient and family reception area (featuring stained glass panels from the original Mercy Hospital chapel) • Wireless Internet access and flat-screen TVs To learn more about UPMC Mercy and its ED services, visit UPMCMercy.com.
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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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New Earned Income Tax Procedures Leave the Collecting to Employers BY AMANDA S.F. HARTLE or as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they have sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard. This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculate approximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check to your local earned income tax collector in your community municipal building. But in 2012, all Findlay, North Fayette and Robinson townships and Oakdale Borough taxpayers can cross one more chore of their to-do list thanks to a new, state mandate. Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in the commonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold all earned income taxes from every employee. And all employees have to do is make sure they have filed out a residency certification form. “The legislation affects every single municipality and school district in Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoffman, local government policy manager at the state Department of Community and Economic Development. “That in itself is huge. In addition, it also affects every single taxpayer and every single business that operates in Pennsylvania.”
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themselves could calculate their tax and send it to their local earned income tax collector. But from the start, issues arose. Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local municipalities in the country, and at one point, there were up to 560 different earned income tax offices in the state, says Hoffman. “It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was no consistency in collections. No consistency in annual returns and no consistency in transfer of records from one tax collector to another.” Confusion about where to send taxes also abounded for companies that are headquartered out of state but have a plethora of work sites and thousands of employees in Pennsylvania. “Many of these companies did
In the Beginning Earned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania since 1965. At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow local entities such as school districts and municipalities to raise more funds. “It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a tax to help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposed on people who actually had earned income not those who were retired or were not working,” says Hoffman. Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania. Neighboring states have a similar structures in place, but they are not identical. In theory, the tax is simple. Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1 percent tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs and school districts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower. And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the tax from an employee’s pay or the employee
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withhold the tax, but with so many different collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all the expectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure also was not attractive to new businesses endeavors as it created one more regulation interested companies had to comply with when they opened a site in Pennsylvania. Within decades, people started to question the structure used to collect earned income tax.
A New Way By 2002, various organizations sought change and restructuring. Their pleas were supported by a study commissioned by the Pennsylvania Economy League among other entities. The study found that millions of dollars across the state were not being accounted for correctly and millions of potential tax dollars were not being collected at all. The actual amount always remained uncertain, says Hoffman. “I talk to employers every day who have had work sites in Pennsylvania for years and have never collected the tax. We are not just dealing with Pennsylvania businesses though,
made up of representatives from every municipality and school district in the specific county. In Allegheny County, four collection districts were chosen to better serve the area’s unique demographics, says Hoffman. “The four collection districts are separated by the rivers. Allegheny County is different than anywhere else in the state due to its diverse populations and number of corporations.”
Going Forward
this hits businesses across North America.” Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act 32 and its effects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities and school districts three years to implement its regulations. Under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted from employees to their employers. Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employee fill out a one page local earned income tax residency certification form by year’s end. On the form, employees list their address, municipality and county of residence. This information matches to a municipality specific code ensuring the tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at the correct tax collector. Throughout Pennsylvania except in Allegheny County, earned income tax collector positions were eliminated or altered as taxes will go to a county level tax collector chosen by a tax collection district
In addition to the more centralized structure, the law has other oversight and accountability features. There are explicit time frames set out for the distribution of dollars as well as training and certification for all tax officers. There also are penalties for late payments and annual auditing, says Hoffman. “All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies being collected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributed properly.” Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state. “Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some had none at all. Now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvania and all the tax collectors are required to use it. We now have consistency.” But despite all the positive accolades predicted, Findlay Township Manager Gary Klingman feels it’s too early to know what will occur. “We are going to stay pretty attuned to it. Next year will be a test year. Hopefully, it will just get better from there.” Due to uncertainty, he has budgeted his revenues from the tax for 2012 as $585,500 - the same as 2011. He also plans to have the township’s tax collector continue to track down delinquent taxpayers and their nearly $100,000 in taxes as they have done in the past rather than turning that duty over to Jordan Tax Service, Allegheny County’s southwest region tax collector. In Oakdale Borough, Kelly Rohbeck, borough secretary, believes that after some growing pains, the change will be good for her borough. Oakdale sees $125,000 in earned income taxes and between $10,000 and $15,000 additional in delinquent payments. “I think I am doing a good job, but there is always the unknown. We hope to get the same amount if not more. Unfortunately there is always some people who fall between the cracks, especially renters or teenagers who get part-time jobs.”
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Settler’s Cabin, Montour Trail to Receive State and County Grant Funding
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matching grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Allegheny County Parks Foundation will fund portions of the Settlers Cabin Connector Trail, and to connect South park Park to the Montour Trail by the end of next summer. The Settlers Cabin Connector Trail Project will receive $500,000 in state and county funding for construction, benches, signage and landscaping. The trail connector will link the park to the Panhandle Trail, which stretches 29 miles from Carnegie to Weirton, W.Va. The Panhandle Trail connects to the 46-mile Montour Trail that runs from Coraopolis to Clairton. The Montour Trail joins with the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile biking and hiking trail that connects with the 185-mile C&O Canal Towpath at Cumberland, Md. Together, the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath create a 335-mile
traffic- and motorized-vehicle-free route between Point State Park in Downtown Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. In addition to the South Park Fairgrounds Improvements and Settlers Cabin Connector Trail, the foundation’s board of directors has also identified the North Park Lake Trail and South Park Montour Connector Trail as two of its signature projects. The South Park Montour Connector is a two-mile trail that links South Park to the Montour Trail. The parks foundation has received $320,000 for the project, which will be matched by Allegheny County. The connector trail is in final design and expected to be completed late next summer. “The Allegheny County Parks Foundation affords us tremendous opportunity to raise private and public funds to help with the renovation and renewal of our park facilities, as well as the development and
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden Recipient of $45,000 Grant The Pittsburgh Botanic Garden was awarded $45,000 in grant funding from the National Audubon Society and Toyota for the site’s use of green practices during its construction. The Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is currently transforming a degraded former mine site into a botanic garden featuring native habitats. They’re using green practices and processes from start to finish: recycling all of the metal waste found on the site, using solar power for irrigation, treating the acid mine drainage, and restoring native ecosystems to their former grandeur. In the coming years, people from all over will be able to enjoy a beautiful botanic garden – the only one ever to be created on an abandoned mine site. With TogetherGreen funding, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden will transform 15 acres of the site into a native woodland habitat garden. Through a partnership with Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania and the fifty-year-old social services organization Auberle, up to 100 neglected kids will get to be part of the transformation, visiting the site on field trips, learning about native woodlands, and helping with the reclamation and restoration. “Over the past 86 years, some plants managed to colonize the abandoned mine site which is now the home of the Pittsburgh
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West Allegheny
Botanic Garden. However, only about a quarter of the plants native to the region have naturally regenerated there,” said Greg Nace, President, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. “With the help of TogetherGreen, the Botanic Garden will be able to build a healthy and wonderfully diverse woodland habitat into a source of inspiration for young and old alike.” Since 2008, the TogetherGreen Innovation Grants program has awarded over $4.7 million to more than 160 environmental projects nationwide. The 2011 awardees are receiving grants ranging from $5,000 - $50,000. Funds were awarded to partnerships, mostly between Audubon groups (local Chapters or programs of Audubon’s large national network) and organizations in their communities. This year’s grant projects involve more than 150 partner organizations nationwide. Many of the projects focus on engaging audiences that have traditionally been under-served by the conservation movement, from urban youth to rural ranchers. "Never underestimate ingenuity and innovation. The approaches that will help us tackle the enormous environmental challenges confronting us today are going to come from unlikely and unpredictable places,” said Audubon President David Yarnold. “Each Innovation Grant project is an opportunity for Audubon to partner with local organizations to test and implement creative approaches to build healthier communities and achieve significant conservation results. And as our alliance with Toyota shows, when organizations work together, we can exponentially magnify our impact.”
For additional information on Allegheny County parks, visit www.alleghenycounty.us/parks. Follow the Allegheny County Parks on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AlleghenyCountyParks and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AC_Parks. To learn more about the Allegheny Parks Foundation and its projects, make a donation, or volunteer, visit the foundation’s website at www.acparksfoundation.org or like the foundation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AlleghenyCountyParksFoundation. expansion of recreational programs,” said County Executive Dan Onorato. “County Council and I have pledged $10 million in capital funds to match, dollar for dollar, the first $10 million raised by the foundation so we can quickly double the amount of funds to address deferred maintenance, recreational improvements and facility enhancements. I want to thank the commonwealth and parks foundation for helping us to start these two significant projects.” The parks foundation has also received $681,072 for programmatic improvements in the county parks. This includes $250,000 from the Colcom Foundation, $25,000 from the R.K. Mellon Foundation, $25,000 from an anonymous donor, $20,536 from the PNC Charitable Trust, $20,000 from the Laurel Foundation, and $340,036 in matching funds from Allegheny County. “On behalf of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation Board of Directors, I want to thank County Executive Dan Onorato for his vision in creating the foundation and for serving as a tireless advocate of the county parks,” said John Surma, Chairman and CEO of United States Steel Corporation. “The generous dollar-fordollar county match helped to leverage this state grant. Today, we thank the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources for awarding this grant to our foundation, and we also recognize and thank state Senator John Pippy for advocating for the state funding. This money, coupled with foundation and individual gifts we have received to date is a solid foundation upon which we can build and will allow us to begin work on our four signature projects, all of which will play an
The South Park Montour Connector is a twomile trail that links South Park to the Montour Trail.
important role in efforts to secure the long-term viability of Allegheny County park system.” Allegheny County operates nine public parks that span more than 12,000 acres and offer a wide array of sporting, leisure, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The Allegheny County Parks system serves to enhance the quality of life and well-being of citizens of Allegheny County and Southwestern Pennsylvania. Various seasonal and yearround programs, activities and amenities provide residents with educational and recreational opportunities, while also contributing to the economic vitality of the region. The Allegheny County Parks Foundation’s mission is to help improve, conserve, maintain, protect, preserve and restore Allegheny County park facilities and open spaces, and also to support educational, recreational, natural and cultural activities. The Parks Foundation assists in the transformation of the nine Allegheny County Parks by assembling resources, improving assets, and mobilizing public and private stakeholders to advance strategies and aspirations to make parks signature assets of Southwestern Pennsylvania. “Everyone associated with the Allegheny County Parks Foundation is eager to begin putting our plans into action so that these valuable assets can continue positively impacting our region’s quality of life as they have for so many generations before us, said parks foundation Executive Director Christine Fulton. “This DCNR grant and the matching funds it triggers from the county are important steps forward in our overall efforts, but we are far from finished. We encourage all county residents and friends of our parks to join us to ensure that these nine parks covering more than 12,000 acres remain a vibrant part of our region for decades.” t
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The
Best Holidays are Safe Holidays By Pamela Palongue No one wants the holiday spoiled by an accidents, fire or tragedy. The following tips will help keep your holiday bright and full of cheer. Never mount lights with nails or tacks which may damage the wire insulation inside. Thread the light strings through hooks or insulated staples. Before hanging lights outdoors, make sure they are certified for outdoor use. If you have small children or pets, it’s best to avoid breakable ornaments altogether. Make sure all ornaments are hung high enough on the tree to be free from the reach of small children. Check to make sure that your artificial Christmas tree is fireresistant. If you are buying a real tree, choose one that is fresh by checking the needles to make sure they are pliable and not brittle. Choose a place for the tree that is a safe distance from radiators, fireplaces and space heaters. Be sure to put plenty of water in the tree stand to keep the tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Marc Rasschaert of Landmarc Products.com has invented a Smart Tree Keeper watering device which plays “Jingle Bells” when the tree becomes low on water. Rasschaert says, “A watered tree is the safest tree.” Never use electric lights on a metallic tree as the branches can become electrically charged if the lights are faulty. Avoid Christmas decorations that
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West Allegheny
resemble candy or food, since small children may try to eat or swallow them. Remember that poinsettias are poisonous when ingested, so avoid decorating with them if pets or small children will be attending your celebration. Never burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. The wrapping paper burns intensely and can cause flash fires which have the potential to destroy a home. If you are using any ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction such as nuts or seafood, be sure to let your guests know before they eat the dressing with the oysters. Although it’s tempting to abandon the kitchen to hang out with your guests, unattended cooking accounts for a majority of home fires in the U.S. during the holidays. Keep an eye on the mulled cider. Finally, test your smoke detectors to make sure that they are all working properly. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday celebration!
WINTER
2011
Need a gift th homemade Kids ca at is easy? these a n assemble to the nd present teacherir favorite friend! or best
Christmas Treat Jar Here's what you'll need... • Jar • Ribbon (optional) • Snack food • Glue (optional)
Here's how you make them... 1. Start to fill your jar with your Christmas snacks. We put Banana Chips, Craisins (dried cranberries), unsalted peanuts, cashews, and almonds, Christmas colored M&Ms. Choose any snacks you'd wish, just make sure that everything is unsalted. Otherwise the salt will draw the moisture out of your other treats and ruin the taste. 2. Layer your snacks so that they are at least 1" thick, otherwise your snacks will run into each other and won't look 'layered'. A regular sized canning jar will take about 1 cup of snack for each layer - this is a great opportunity for the kids to practice 'measuring'. 3. To finish off your jar tie a piece of ribbon around the lid. We wrapped and criss-crossed a ribbon around our lid and secured it with a drop of hot glue (or fabric glue).
Hey Kids!
Did you do a fantastic art project at school this year? We would love to see it! Have your Mom or Dad take a picture of you and your project and send to us! We think everyone should see what a great artist you are! E-mail your pics to : m.jeffries@icmags.com
If you want to add an extra special touch, why not make your gift tag out of a handprint, just a quick way to make your gifts even more personalized!
word search Z Z C M X N E Z T I L B C O K
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Y P X C O R U D O L P H P K O
D U E N O H A N A K E Y I E O
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U E V K I D E P C A B O I C S
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
on the street Resident Profile Name – Carl Pia Town – Imperial, PA Profession – Quicksilver Golf Club Manager Fun Fact – Father of five girls!
How long have you lived in Imperial? “Nine years.” What do you like best about living in Imperial? “It is such a close knit community that is so giving and caring. Also, my wife and I looked at many school districts before moving here and West Allegheny School District had high standards and the tests scores were excellent.” What are some issues in the community that are important to you? “The economy and all of its challenges; not being able to make as many donations or allocate as many funds to charities. I was one of the original founders of The West Allegheny Foundation but because of my work, I didn’t have as much time and had to step down.” Does Quick Silver Golf Club host Charitable Events? “We are a public course that welcomes charities and try to help in any way we can.” What would you like people to know about your community? “You can move in as an outsider and are welcomed. It is a family oriented community where people look out for you.”
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Parkway West Career and Technology Houses of Worship Center Students go to SkillsUSA Nationals 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 United Prebyterian Church 25 Wilson Road, Clinton, PA 15026 724.695.7993 Clinton Wesleyan Church 1022 Clinton Road, Clinton, PA 15026 724.695.7076 Crossroads Methodist Church 1000 Crossroads Drive, Oakdale, PA 15071 412.494.9999 www.crossroadsumc.org Hebron Presbyterian Church 1767 Route 30, Clinton, PA 15026 724.899.2276 Noblestown United Methodist Church 7313 Noblestown Road, Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2755 Oakdale United Presbyterian Church 62 Hastings Avenue, Oakdale, Pa 15071 724.693.8950 Resurrection Lutheran Church 7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, Pa 15071 412.788.4513 St. Columbkille Church 103 Church Road, Imperial, PA 15126 724.695.7325 www.saintcolumbkilleparish.org West Ridge Christian Community Church 100 Gorwood Drive, Coraopolis, PA 15108 724.695.7500 www.wrcc.org
David Ball, Emily Gollick, Rachel Zolkiewicz, James Latimer, and Zach Scribner Best in the state of PA in their respective disciplines, 2011 senior Zach Scribner and 2011 juniors David Ball, Emily Gollick and Rachel Zolkiewicz of Montour, and James Latimer of Sto-Rox all placed first in their events at the statewide SkillsUSA competition in Hershey, qualifying them to compete at nationals. Scribner won the Collision Repair Technology competition. Latimer, Ball, Gollick, and Zolkiewicz won the Entrepreneurship competition. The students’ professional skills, which they acquired in their programs at Parkway West CTC, were judged on both written and performance tests at both the state and national levels. In June at nationals, where 5,000 other CTE students were competing, Scribner finished in 12th place having the highest score ever on the ‘plastics’ component. The entrepreneurial team came home with 9th place. Currently, Scribner is furthering his education at OTC (Ohio Technical College) in Cleveland, Ohio, majoring in welding on a full scholarship. The entrepreneurial team of four, who are all seniors this year, are looking forward to returning to Hershey to compete again. Last year, they achieved so much without having been to the state competition. This year, with some gained experience, they have set their goal to not only win states, but to place at nationals. SkillsUSA advisors, Todd Kieffer, Auto Body Repair instructor, and Lisa Love, Business Technology instructor, are very proud of their student’s accomplishments, as are the entire staff and Administration of Parkway West CTC!
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
“One Nutrition I is Not
by Pamela Palongue
nformation on dieting and nutrition seems to be everywhere these days, and conflicting reports on what’s good for you is a frequent occurrence. A bit of common sense applied to the situation, tempered with some consideration for your particular lifestyle and taste preferences, is in order. Leslie Bonci, director of sports nutrition for UPMC and author of The Active Calorie Diet, has some surprising answers to some frequently asked questions. “Nutrition should be more inclusive, rather than exclusive,” says Bonci. “People give way too much attention on what to avoid and that becomes a negative focus.” Nutrition should be based on positive choices and pursuing good health, rather than avoiding bad health. There is no one perfect diet for every individual, due to age, medical conditions and different activity levels, but there are some general guidelines that make planning a healthy meal a little easier. “Thank goodness we got rid of the Food Pyramid. People don’t eat from a pyramid and it’s too abstract,” says Bonci. “The Food Plate is much more natural with the plate being divided into quarters made up of 50% fruits and vegetables, 25% proteins and 25% 38 724.942.0940 to advertise |
grains. The blue circle beside the plate represents dairy products such as milk, which supplies D-3, a vitamin that research has indicated prevents several serious diseases. Dairy products of course also supply calcium, an important mineral for everyone but especially women in the prevention of osteoporosis, a disease that the International Osteoporosis Foundation estimates affects 200 million women worldwide. The fork beside the plate is a reminder that the meal should be a sitdown affair, with time to eat and enjoy and appreciate the meal. Noticeably absent from the Food Plate as a
West Allegheny
category is fat, but Bonci says, “The goal is not to eliminate fat entirely.” It is an important part of the diet which helps the body to use fat soluble vitamins and helps keep skin soft and supple. Unsaturated fats can be found in foods such as salmon, trout, flaxseed oil, walnuts, almonds and olive oil. While these fats are healthy in limited amounts, they still have a high density of calories and will sabotage any diet if left unchecked. They should be consumed in reasonable amounts. One recommendation that is common these days is the advice to eat six meals per day, consuming something every couple of hours. “People in Europe and other parts of the world don’t eat this way; this is an American idea. I would like to see people eat three meals per day with a floating snack in between,” suggests Bonci. Of course she points out that if you only have one meal per day and it is late in the evening, your body will have less time to expend the calories before bed, possibly resulting in excess weight. However, six meals a day is often not practical for those who work regular jobs in an office or other setting that prevents food while at work. While food allergies have gotten a great deal of media attention lately, Bonci explains that actual food allergies are
Size
Fits
All”
Nutrition should be based on positive choices and pursuing good health, rather than avoiding bad health.
relatively rare. What is more common are food sensitivities and food intolerance, such as those individuals who are lactose intolerant. There are alternative sources for calcium if a person is lactose intolerant, such as soy milk, almond milk, baked beans and canned salmon. These are all acceptable alternatives providing important nutrients. For those people wishing to drop a few pounds, Bonci points out that it is a relatively simple principle, “You have to create a deficit. There has to be less calories eaten than what is being used.” This of course can be done by having smaller portions while still enjoying a variety of foods to enable you to have a balanced diet. One suggestion is to use a smaller plate, making the portion size look a bit large. Another way to create a deficit in
your caloric intake is to add activity. Exercise not only helps you to burn more calories, but the benefits are intensified in that most people devoting time to exercise begin to also focus more attention on their nutrition and calorie intake as well. Exercise changes your mindset to a healthier routine. Bonci adds that another advantage to exercising is that “when you are exercising, you’re not eating.” Many times people eat from boredom, and exercise or sports fill a void in an otherwise inactive lifestyle. Healthy nutrition is all about focusing on positive choices and realizing that food is not just something to be gulped down in five minutes on the way to the soccer game. It is an important part of our lives that deserves attention and appreciation and is instrumental in preventing diseases and promoting optimal health for a better life. For more information on eating a balanced diet, you may visit the United States Dept. of Agriculture website at www.ChooseMyPlate.gov. For healthy suggestions on how nutrition and exercise can affect your life in a positive way, Leslie Bonci’s books, Run Your Butt Off and The Active Calorie Diet, are available online at the Prevention Magazine website www.Prevention.com. t
West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
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By Pamela Palongue
A
(www.AWEA.org) is one of the best states for wind power. One reason is an abundance of wind; another is the excellent tax incentives and rebates for installing wind power. Wind energy has become more efficient over the past few years as turbine technology has improved, making it more viable than ever. In fact, 180,000 homes in Pennsylvania are at least partially powered by wind. Wind power is clean and produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation and generally has less negative effect on the environment than any other source of power. The cost of a typical size turbine for a residential home, such as a Skystream 3.7, costs in the neighborhood of $5,000 to $8,000, plus the cost of installation. Like solar power, the cost of installation pays for itself over time and any excess power produced can be sold back to the utility company for a profit. If you are interested in wind power for your home, you may find it helpful to consult the U.S. Dept. of Energy Wind and Water Program page at www.eere.energy.gov which has a helpful list of frequently asked questions for examining the feasibility of wind power for your home. Alternative energy sources can help save your family money while helping the environment in a meaningful and lasting way.
MONEY SAVING
LTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES ARE GAINING GROUND IN THE U.S., PARTIALLY FUELED BY THE COST OF HIGH ENERGY PRICES BUT ALSO A DESIRE TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT.The U.S. Dept. of Energy states in its five-year plan regarding the cleanup of nuclear waste, “Fifty years of nuclear weapons production and [nuclear] energy research generated millions of gallons of radioactive waste, thousands of tons of spent nuclear fuel and special nuclear material, along with huge quantities of contaminated soil and water.” And natural gas is not a renewable resource. So what can families do to save money on energy costs and also protect the environment? One alternative is solar power. According to MakeSolarPanels.org, the cost of installation of solar panels in your home is completely paid for within four years and greatly increases the value of your home. The website also explains how to make your own solar panels and install them, and has a list of resources for determining the best location in your home for maximum sun exposure. Of course, the more panels that are installed, the more power that is generated. If more power is generated than what you need for use in your home, you can actually sell the power for extra income. Also, the PA Alternative Energy Investment Act offers rebates up to 35% for the cost of installation in your home. Solar power can be used for baking, heating water, heating a pool, or for electric lights in your home. And according to Pennsylvania Solar (www.pasolar.org), Pennsylvania receives as much solar radiation in the month of June as southern Florida! Another alternative for heating your home is an ancient European invention called the masonry stove, which seems to be making a comeback. This stove is made of cast iron and is covered in ceramic tiles which radiate heat evenly in the home. They use very little wood and burn the wood completely and cleanly. Instead of the room becoming cold after the wood has burned, the tiles continue to radiate the heat for up to 12 hours. Although many environmental enthusiasts want to “save a tree,” trees are a renewable resource and grown as a crop, much the same way that cotton or tomatoes are grown, with the difference being that they are harvested every 14 to 20 years, rather than annually. Giant redwoods and 200-year-old historic oak trees are not harvested for use as fuel by foresters. Another environmental concern with wood burning is the smoke released into the atmosphere. But according to the Alternative Energy Primer, because trees remove carbon from the atmosphere as they are growing, the release of carbon into the atmosphere as they burn is an equal exchange, making for a neutral effect on the environment. Also, the growing and harvesting of more trees actually improves the environment by providing ecosystems for wildlife and improving air quality. The masonry stoves come in a variety of sizes, from small models to heat a single room to larger systems equipped to heat an entire home. They can be very basic or may have computer regulated thermostats. There is also a great variety in the appearance of the stoves, ranging from plain, monochromatic tiles designed to blend in with the wall color to elaborate, decorative designs. Another attractive feature of this source of heat is that it is completely off the power grid, with availability even during power outages. For more facts on masonry stoves, The Masonry Heater Association of North America has a library of information and a gallery of stove designs at www.mha-net.org. A discussion about alternative energy sources would not be complete without wind power. Pennsylvania ranks 16th in the nation in total wind capacity installed, and according to the American Wind Energy Association
Energy Choices
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
Oakdale
Findlay Township Meetings
Council
Board of Supervisors Caucus Meeting - 1st Thursday each month, 7 p.m. 1271 Route 30 P.O. Box W Clinton, PA 15026 Phone: 724.695.0500 Fax: 724.695.1700
Regular Meeting - 1st Thursday each month, 7:30 p.m.
Administration
Workshop Meeting - 4th Thursday each month, 7 p.m.
Mayor
Public Safety
Administration
Findlay Township Police Department
Township Manager
1271 Route #30, Clinton, Pennsylvania 15026 Emergency Number: 911 or 724.695.7777 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.1300
Gary Klingman 724.695.0500 x244 gklingman@findlaytwp.org
Asst. Township Manager/Planning Administrator
Imperial Volunteer Fire Department
Christopher Caruso 724.695.0500 x248 ccaruso@findlaytwp.org
115 Main Street Imperial, PA 15126 Emergency Number: 911 or 724.695.7777 Non-Emergency Number: 724.695.8845 staff@imperialvfd.org
Wage/LST Tax Collector Barbara Coates 724.695.0521 bcoates@findlaytwp.org
Real Estate Tax Collector Dorothy McCullough 724.695.2995
Valley Ambulance Authority
Keith Merlino 405 Clinton Avenue Ext. Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.8382
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
Borough Secretary Kelly Rohbeck 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.9740 Fax: 724.693.0100 rohbeck@oakdaleborough.com
3550 University Boulevard Moon Township, PA 15108 911 or 412.262.2040
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
Public Safety
Mr. Tom Falcioni 724.693.9190
400 North Branch Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.787.8900 Chief: Jeffrey Falconer
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 42 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
Tom Potts, Councilman 305 Clinton Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 Bud Sturgeon, Councilman 4050 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.2748
Public Safety - 911 Oakdale P.D. 6115 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9639 724.693.0740 (Fax) Chief Dr. James J. Lauria 6111 Noblestown Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Station: 724.693.9408 Fax: 724.693.0742
Earned Income Tax Collection and Emergency & Municipal Services Tax
Board of Supervisors
Mark Maximovich, Councilman 590 Highland Ave Oakdale, PA 15071 412-722-3626
Oakdale Hose Company
North Fayette
400 North Branch Rd Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 412.788.4888 or 724.693.9601 Fax: 724.693.8132
Huck Gamble, President 1 Highland Avenue Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9906 Paul Hennemuth, Vice President 110 Jade Drive Oakdale, PA 15071 724.693.9628
North Fayette P.D.
North Fayette Twp. Volunteer Fire Dept. Station 1 Business Office 7678 Stuebenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071-9300 Office: 412.787.2883 Station 2 8036 Steubenville Pike Imperial, PA 15126 Office: 724.695.3727
NorthWest EMS Station 195 West Allegheny North Fayette Municipal Complex 400 North Branch Road North Fayette, PA Non-Emergency 412.331.2600
West Allegheny School District 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
2011 DHS HOLIDAY PROJECT
Schools West Allegheny High School 205 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.7368 Fax: 724.695.8690 Principal: Daniel Smith
West Allegheny Middle School 207 West Allegheny Road Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.8979 Fax: 724.695.8211 Principal: Richard Smith
Donaldson Elementary School 600 Donaldson Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.213.1010 Fax: 724.213.1002 Principal: Patricia Nolan
McKee Elementary School 1501 Oakdale Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.8451 Fax: 724.693.0924 Principal: Thomas Orr
Wilson Elementary School 100 Bruno Lane Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3300 Fax: 724.695.0610 Principal: Kathleen Sites
Gift Drop-off Sites Throughoutty Allegheny Coun
D
uring the month of November through the first week of December, the Allegheny County Department of Human Services Holiday Project is accepting gift donations for children and youth receiving services from the Office of Children, Youth and Families, the county agency charged with protecting children from abuse and neglect. Through the generosity of community groups and individual donations, the DHS Holiday Project’s goal is to provide each child in need at least one meaningful gift during the holidays. New unwrapped gifts are needed for children and youth, ranging from toddlers to those 18 years old. To meet this goal, DHS has partnered with businesses across the county to set up conveniently located donation drop-off sites this holiday season. Monetary donations are also welcome. Checks should be made payable to “DHS Donations Fund” with “Holiday Project” written in the memo line. Checks may be sent to the Event and Donations Team, Human Services Building, One Smithfield Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.
For a list of drop-off locations, collection dates and gift ideas, visit: www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/holidayproject
School Board Debbie Mirich (president) Patrick Konieczny (vice president) Dr. Anne Bolind Ed Faux Tracy Kosis Robert Ostrander Ronald Pasic Eugene Sciulli John Scott
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
OLDER ADULT S IN WEST ALLEGHENY Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can be a formidable one. Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later.
By Pamela Palongue
n the popular 1990s TV series “The Golden Girls,” Dorothy always had a secret weapon she used to coerce her mother into cooperating with her. Dorothy would periodically threaten her with the ominous warning, “Shady Pines is getting your room ready as we speak…” But nowadays, only around 7% of people over age 75 live in nursing homes, according to census figures, and there are more choices than ever for different lifestyles and levels of care. There are as many as 20 different types of senior care facilities, and before looking at any new living arrangement, it’s important to have a basic idea of what the different levels are to avoid feeling overwhelmed with choices. The following are some of the most popular living arrangements for seniors of today. One favorite for mature adults is the active adult community, sometimes referred to as a retirement community or independent living. These dwellings are usually homes or condos with individuals living independently and owning their own home, but in a grouping or housing plan with other seniors. Many times these communities will offer a clubhouse and have planned social and cultural activities 44 724.942.0940 to advertise |
West Allegheny
and limited transportation. They may also provide housekeeping and communal meals for a monthly fee. They are probably best suited to individuals who are active and able to assume total care for themselves, but desire social interaction with others in their own age group. Assisted living facilities usually allow individuals to have the privacy of their own apartment or home, while offering daily assistance with bathing and dressing. Some communities may also help with administering medications. This is an attractive option for many seniors because residents may be able to bathe and dress themselves initially, but as health and mobility decline the help becomes readily available without having to make a change in living arrangements. Communal dining may also be an option for an added fee. Residents rent their apartment or home and may pay one ‘all inclusive’ fee for services or may be charged ‘a la carte’ for each additional service needed. This is a good choice for any mature adult who is currently ambulatory, but who may have concerns about future mobility problems or perhaps has the beginning of mobility issues. Another increasingly popular option for mature adults is home
health care which allows individuals to remain in their homes while receiving professional assistance with bathing, dressing and meal preparation. The care may also extend to medical needs such as the administration of medications and the ongoing management of blood pressure or diabetes. Medicare and Medicaid may provide financial assistance in some cases, but there are several eligibility requirements which must be met. This is a particularly good option for individuals who are emotionally attached to their residence and do not have a strong need for social interaction with other seniors. Rehabilitation facilities are primarily a temporary option for those recuperating from injury or illness. Rehab helps the individual recover and provides adaptive techniques for preparing the patient to return to independent living. While the person may not function at the previous level, the goal of rehab is to enhance the patient’s quality of life by improving mobility, speech and self-care. Though people seldom look forward to going to a nursing facility, skilled nursing homes provide 24-hour care for individuals with serious illness, injury or mental decline. The good news is that there have been several improvements in the quality of care received in nursing facilities since the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987. Nurse aides now have more training, and each resident must be fully evaluated upon admission so that an individual care plan can be established. Meals are planned by a dietician to ensure proper nutrition, and many nursing facilities now include regular exercise as a part of their managed care for residents. Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can be a formidable one. Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later. Try to discuss the different options with aging parents and find out which ones appeal to them. Certain conditions such as serious dementia may prevent a meaningful discussion of these topics later. By talking about the choices now, your loved one can weigh in on the decision and help you decide based on personal preferences. The topic is also easier to discuss when it seems a long way off, rather than inevitable in the near future. The older person will also have more time to make decisions, rather than hastily settling on a new home. When beginning the discussion, always reassure your loved one that you want him/her to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. Ask questions rather than offering advice. This will help your parent to feel more in control of the conversation. Try not to force any decisions with only one discussion. Give your loved one a chance to digest the idea and to form some thoughts on the subject. Suggest the possibility of a visit to an independent or assisted living community. Many parents who are initially reluctant to even discuss moving become excited about the prospect of making a change when they are able to see firsthand the positive social aspects and activities offered at assisted living facilities. Finally, enlist the help of one of your parent’s friends already in independent or assisted living as an advocate. Oftentimes parents may feel that their children are “ganging up” on them if they are confronted by several siblings telling them what they should do. However, an individual in their own age group who has made the adjustment and is happy is the best advocate. For more information on finding a home for your loved one, you may want to consult www.aplaceformom.com, a free elder care referral service. For more tips about speaking with your parents or services available for your loved one, visit the Area Agency on Aging website at www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa.aspx.
Culinary Arts is now ACF (American Culinary Federation) Certified Accreditation by American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC) “assures that a program is meeting the standards and competencies set for faculty, curriculum and student services.” This benefits culinary students in two major ways. First, as they seek employment after graduation, it may increase their chances of securing that initial culinary job. Secondly, students wanting to further their education after high school have access to additional culinary related scholarships. This could save them and their families additional costs at the post-secondary level. Several more benefits through the ACF are available to our Culinary students but are too numerous to list. More information about this certification can be found at www.acfchefs.org. Congrats to our Chefs, Michael Timcheck and Brad Lakes, on securing such a prestigious certification in their industry for Parkway’s Culinary Arts program!
Auto Body Repair Receives NATEF’s Approval for Re-Certification Great news! Auto Body Repair has achieved accreditation by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The program was evaluated according to strict standards set by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) across all aspects of the program: from the condition of the facilities to the number of instructional hours. They found that the program has skilled instructors and the latest tools and equipment the industry requires. Now, more than ever, graduates will be prepared to enter productive entry-level positions although this is already evident — especially with students who have excelled in the program and are now employed through cooperative education. We are proud of this recognition and the program’s ability to produce competent technicians and employable students so desperately needed by the automotive industry. Additional information about NATEF and the benefits Parkway’s students have because of the certification can be found by going to www.natef.org. Congrats to Auto Body Repair instructors, Todd Kieffer and David Pallerino! t
West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
n o o m y Hone
Romance at a price you can afford
W
hen it comes to making travel plans, there’s probably no trip that will be more meaningful to you than your honeymoon. Making memories that last a lifetime at this special time in your life shouldn’t be done on a whim. It takes forethought and planning to make a honeymoon a romantic getaway. Anything less, could leave you high, dry, and searching for alternatives that may cause your first bout of marital stress. The best way to start is by setting a budget. Once you’ve determined how much you can afford, you will know if New Zealand, Hawaii or Florida is in your future –and all three have spectacular beaches, resorts and amenities for you to enjoy. If you’re not a surf and sun couple, we can certainly help you find the right package for you.
The Celebrity Treatment
If money is no object, first, we congratulate you on your good fortune! The destinations open to you include Hawaii, the South Pacific and the French Riviera. Luxurious resorts such as the Mauna Lani Hotel in Kona, Hawaii, the Aman Resort in Bali, and the Hotel Cipriani and Palazza Vendramin in
Venice are common names known for their over-the-top service and movie-set grandeur. Trips such as these can easily start in the $10,000 range and escalate in price from there. However, for those who can afford it, there’s no price tag to be placed on the memories you’ll bring back with you and the experiences you have at these resorts.
The Upscale
While we may not all have $10,000 or more to spend on a honeymoon, most couples will splurge on this trip more than any other future vacation because of the gift money from the wedding, and the fact that it’s a once-in-alifetime celebration. So if you’re in the $5,000 to $10,000 range, you’re still going to find great resorts in Hawaii and the Caribbean. The Meridian Club in Turks and Caicos, Peter Island in the British Virgin Islands, and the Four Seasons on Nevi or Sandy Lane in Barbados are a few that come to mind. While not all-inclusive, you will still
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r To Book you own Custom r Honeymoon o Vacation, and r for any of you all c Travel Needs, avel Tr Three Rivers 1, or go to 4 at 724.260.53 el.com erstrav www.threeriv
find great sunsets, gourmet cuisine and beachfront property you won’t find anywhere else.
The Popular Honeymoon
In the $3,000 to $5,000 range, honeymooners can find all-inclusive, luxury resorts in the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera Maya. Sandals has numerous resorts in the region, with private beaches, pristine water, and myriad activities to keep you busy when you’re ready to pick up your beach towel and find the nightlife.
The Affordable Honeymoon
If you’re willing to plan around sales and travel around the resorts’ off-peak seasons, you can still find your perfect honeymoon on the beaches of Mexico while keeping some money in the bank for your first mortgage. Having a travel agent can help you navigate the resorts and figure out how to save money the most. With their help, you can still find many four- and five-star resorts at affordable rates, as well as reasonable airfare to those destinations. Your travel agent has up-to-the-minute rates and dates the world over, not just on the beachfront, so call them if you’re considering Europe, mountain retreats or a trip to the Big Apple. Chances are, they’ll be worth their weight in aspirin when it comes to the headaches you’ll avoid, and your honeymoon will be a trip you’ll want to take again and again.
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West Allegheny | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. It would seem reasonable that with millions of sperm and only one egg that the majority of infertility problems would lie with the female. Not true, according to the National Library of Medicine which tracks national statistics kept by fertility clinics. Difficulties with fertility are evenly split, with the source of fertility problems being linked to the male one third of the time and the female also having difficulties one third of the time. The final third is a mixture of situations where both parties have infertility issues and those cases where the cause is indeterminate. The good news is that there is hope for males who wish to start a family. Director of Male Reproductive Medicine Surgery at UPMC, Thomas Jaffe, MD, an urologist, offers a hopeful perspective for males experiencing difficulties with reproductive issues. “Because of many technologies and treatments, many men who previously had no hope of fathering a child now have treatment options that can be [effective.]” One important advancement in reproductive research is a relatively new diagnostic test called the DAZ test. The DAZ test detects a genetic mutation in the Y chromosome for sperm production.
48 724.942.0940 to advertise |
This test is ordered when sperm production is unusually low. Another important factor in analyzing the quality of the sperm is its motility or movement. Generally, sperm with greater motility are able to more easily fertilize an egg. One common problem among men with fertility issues is type 1 or juvenile onset diabetes. Individuals with diabetes may experience what’s called retrograde ejaculation. Simply put, this is when the bladder stays open with ejaculatory fluids washing back into the bladder rather than exiting the body as with normal functioning. “This problem can be treated with Sudafed which helps the bladder to stay closed during ejaculation,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Retrograde ejaculation can also be a problem with spinal cord injuries, nerve damage or certain medications that contain alpha blockers such as high blood pressure medications. Another problem Dr. Jaffe sees among his patients are men who have little to no sperm production. “Even with no sperm, we have found that these men still produce limited numbers of sperm within the tissues of the testicles.” This sperm can be extracted from the tissue and remains viable to fertilize an egg.
West Allegheny
One of the most common problems associated with male infertility is when an enlargement of a vein in the scrotum forms. These veins are specially equipped with one-way valves which insure that blood flows upward. When these veins become compressed, they crush the gonadal vein and heat and toxins build up in the scrotum inhibiting healthy sperm production. The vein can be surgically repaired however to promote normal function with increased sperm production and better quality with sperm motility increased. Finally, male cancer patients may experience fertility problems due to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “Ideally ,we [harvest] sperm prior to treatment. We work with the Pittsburgh Cryobank to store the sperm until needed,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Although no treatment is an absolute guarantee, male infertility can often times be overcome with the right evaluation and treatment. For more information about Dr. Jaffe and treatment of male infertility, call 412.692.4100.
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