IN West Jefferson Hills

FALL 2010

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

West Jefferson Hills School District Info Inside

!

S U PL ducation ges E h the A Throug

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Contents West Jefferson Hills | FALL 2010 |

6

9 Publisher’s Message

FEATURE

|

42 |

2

Alternatives to College |

By Jonathan Barnes | 3

FEATURE

|

Secrets of Successful Middle School Students |

By Kelli McElhinny | 5

FEATURE

|

Planning Your Way to College |

By Karen Ferrieri | 6

FEATURE

|

Moms Returning to School

|

Face uphill, but not impossible battle

By Pamela Palongue | 53 FEATURE

|

UPMC Today

|

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 25

44

FEATURE

|

IN KIDS

FEATURE

|

Garden Club of Allegheny County | 54

COMMUNITY INTEREST

|

West Jefferson School News

COMMUNITY INTEREST

|

West Jefferson Municipal and Library News | 33

COMMUNITY INTEREST

|

|

|

9

Older Adults in West Jefferson Hills | Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

By Josh Wetmore | 42

INDUSTRY INSIGHT |

Cusumano Insurance | 4

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

|

Dance Workshop by Shari | 57

ON THE COVER

|

On the Cover- Photos from theWest Jefferson Hills School District

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

54

FALL 2010 Welcome to the fall issue of West Jefferson Hills! As summer winds down, I hope that you and your family had some time to get away and enjoy yourselves - even if it was for the day at some local hidden treasure spot. Those are the places we love to highlight in these pages.

I met one of our readers while I was finishing up some business with one of the municipalities we serve. He was sitting at a picnic table near a veterans' monument under a pristine blue sky on a quiet and hot July day. The man recognized my photo from the magazine and said his dad used to enjoy reading about local things.

He explained that his father had passed away several years ago. He pointed to the monument and said his father never spoke about the war, but always talked about some close friends he served with that didn't come home.

“I come by here about once a week or so to enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the birds,” he said. “We miss him, but here, I know that he's catching up with some old friends.”

To say that I was touched would be an understatement, but you can see how this one little area can mean so much to someone. Tell us about places that are special to you - places with history and a story behind them. Send your story to: marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or mail them to IN Community Magazines, 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317.

IN West Jefferson Hills is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Jefferson Hills School District and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here.

Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

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

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

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

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Josh Wetmore GRAPHIC DESIGN

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Cassie Brkich Jan McEvoy Susie Doak Joe Milne Pati Ingold Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Welcome to the first edition of West Jefferson Hills. I’m looking forward to getting to know the community through features that we create here about residents of the West Jefferson Hills Community. As the kids head back to school, we thought it was important to address education. I firmly believe that education and the family’s role in supporting the educational process for all family members is a responsibility we shouldn’t take lightly. I hope you find the features informative as you navigate the new school year.

A few notes about the magazine - we want to hear from you! If you know of someone in the community who is volunteering, or has made your community a better place to live and work, will you let us know? We get some of our very best features from ideas our readers suggest to us.

Also, please let us know if you have a member of your family who is serving in our nation’s military. We want to recognize their dedication to our country. You can send along their photo, name and where they are stationed to us. We will post in the very next edition of the magazine.

You can write to me at the magazine - marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.

I look forward to hearing from you. Enjoy!

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor

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Garyyonphotography.com Schoolhouse Photography A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Linda Mitchell Gina D’Alicandro Tamara Myers Liz Dodson Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Annette Petrone Rose Estes Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 Winter Issue Deadline: Need info 2010

www.incommunitymagazines.com

Alternatives to

By Jonathan Ba rnes

W

orking as a fraud investigator for Mellon Bank, Ann Flasck was following the career path she had chosen when she had decided years before to study Criminology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. But Flasck, of Peters, through no fault of her own, lost her job and was given severance pay several years ago.

The change opened her eyes to other potential opportunities.

Flasck used her time on severance pay to take a welding class. “I wanted to learn how to weld to make furniture and artwork,” she said. “Then I found out about the trade unions and in 2005 I took the steamfitters’ [apprenticeship] test.”

Flasck, 44, a South Park High School graduate, has had steady work with the union ever since she joined the group. The pay is high--$30 per hour— and a Steamfitters union member can get as much work as she wants, Flasck said, noting that she has become certified as a welder and obtained other skills to increase her ability to be hired for jobs.

As many in Western Pennsylvania are learning through the hardships of the recent recession, work in the trades can be a high-paying career bereft of work stoppages. Trade work provides steady employment that is fulfilling to people who don’t enjoy work in an office setting. College is not for everyone and the cost of such an education is becoming more and more difficult for many families to bear. Newspapers and magazines are full of stories of students who took on the burdensome college debt that they are struggling to pay off.

But for those with a strong work ethic, some mechanical aptitude and a desire to be a part of building something, becoming a member of a union could be an ideal career choice. Fortunately for those in the Pittsburgh area, the chance to work with the insulators, electricians, laborers, carpenters or other unions is greater than ever, due to the state-of-the-art training programs these and other local unions provide.

“It’s neat to build things—to see something you’ve worked on turn into something,” Flasck said.

The time commitment to becoming a full member of a union might not be for everyone, though. Steamfitters Local #499 takes in anywhere from 12 to 30 new members each year, a group that is winnowed from about 300 who take the initial test and interview for a slot with the union, said Ken Broadbent, business manager for Steamfitters Local #449, located along Woodruff Street in the South Hills. Unlike some jobs, there is no age discrimination in the union apprentice selection process—twenty-somethings and older folks starting a second career have an equal shot at union membership.

The Steamfitters apprenticeship program requires 1,000 hours of schooling at night for each apprentice, as well as 2,000 hours per year of guaranteed employment over the five-year apprenticeship. Those man-hours

are paid, along with full benefits. Apprentices start at $12 per hour and eventually make $30 per hour as steamfitters, but you have to be fit.

“You have to be physically able to perform the work because there’s lifting and climbing, and working in the cold and in the heat,” Broadbent said. “For every hour a journeyman works, we take 50 cents out of his pay to put towards the training program.”

The average age of an apprentice is actually 27 years old, said Jason Fincke, executive director of the builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania, a labor/management organization that includes both contractors and unions. Apprentices earn between $10 and $15 per hour their first year, receiving average yearly raises of $3.50 annually during their training. The average building trades worker earns $45,000 per year, Fincke noted. Western Pennsylvania has 17 union apprenticeship schools and all are tuition-free, he said.

Studies have shown that a college education might actually be a waste of money for many of those who attend, Fincke said, and so union membership is an increasingly smart career choice. “Only about 5 percent of college graduates make more money than people in the building trades,” he said.

While work in construction is hard and physically demanding, the industry isn’t affected in the same way by economic conditions as other industries are impacted, Fincke added. “You can’t outsource construction,” he said.

With union workers averaging wages of $25 to $35 per hour, unions are many smart workers’ choice for gainful employment, Fincke said. “There’s a myth out there that to be successful you have to go to college… Building trade work can provide a very good living and a very good wage,” he said.

For more information on apprenticeships in the trades in the Pittsburgh area, visit the Builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania’s web site, at www.buildersguild.org.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

Parents, tell your kids: STOP TEXTI NG & DRI VE!!

■ Some state and local governments have enacted laws against texting and driving.

New York, California, Arkansas, Texas and Missouri are a few of the states that have enacted bans. Parents should find out the laws where they live and make sure their teens know.

■ Parents should set firm rules with tough consequences for violations. Loss of driving and call phone privileges are some of the penalties parents may want to consider for breaking the rules.

■ Parents should model the behavior they want from their teens. They should avoid talking on cell phones or texting while driving themselves. These practices are not any safer when someone over age 40 does them; parents should set a good example and drive safely.

Learning to drive is an important milestone in a teenager’s passage to adulthood. It is important for safe driving habits to become ingrained in new drivers. Parents are their children’s first teachers in many subjects; texting and driving should be no different. Teens’ lives and the lives of the people sharing the highways with them depend on it.

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n the summer of 2009, a shocking video posted on the Internet gained widespread attention from the media.

Viewers found it so upsetting that YouTube restricted access to it on its Web site. Created by the police department of a small town in Wales, it depicted a fictional but horrific car accident that claimed the lives of four people and seriously injured the driver who caused it. The culprit: A teenage girl who was sending a text message from her cell phone while driving.

“Texting” while driving is a very dangerous practice. Car accidents are already the leading cause of death for people ages 16 to 20, according to the Centers for Disease Control; by distracting them, texting increases their chances of getting in accidents.

Eastern Virginia Medical School ran a study in which 21 teenagers with at least six months driving experience and no chemical influences simulated driving in 10 minute segments. When they sent text messages or searched their MP3 players while driving, they changes lanes and speeds more often than when they did not.

Some of them ran over pedestrians.

The federal Department of Transportation convened a Distracted Driving Summit meeting in the fall of 2009. Participants discussed solutions to a variety of distractions, including ways to get teens to stop texting behind the wheel.

■ Just as they would talk to their teens about the dangers of drinking and driving, parents should talk with them about driving while texting. Teens don’t necessarily think about how risky some behaviors may be. Driver education instructors might not raise this issue, so it’s up to parents to address it.

■ When they have the conversation with their teens, parents should not worry about being too harsh. Cemeteries are full of teenagers who thought they were immortal, so this is no time to soft-pedal the message. Have them watch the Welsh police department’s video, give them testimonials from other teens to read, and show them stories about accidents like the one in 2007 that killed five girls who had just graduated from high school near Rochester, New York.

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d d i l e M S l c o u t s h f t f t h n s e o e S s u e c c e r o c d l u St Se

uccess S o t s p e St book

t assignmen • Use an r of le one hou r day u d e h c S • time pe homework nments ls for assig a o g t e S •

By Kelli McElhinny

When a preteen leaves elementary school behind to move on to the middle grades, the transition can be a daunting one. The building’s bigger, and it houses more students. All of the new experiences can add up to a trying time for incoming students.

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Most middle graders are anxious about the change that is coming.

Going beyond the safety net of elementary school is sometimes hard for a child. Along with the physical, emotional, and social changes they bring, the middle school years can be difficult for a child.

Experts agree that a middle school program that emphasizes the importance of addressing any remedial needs is important. The opportunities to do so beyond middle school are few and far between.

Honing basic math and reading skills are particularly important.

Reading is really the first step towards independent learning.

In addition to taking more challenging classes, middle school students also get instruction from a wider variety of teachers, an experience many students relish. Middle school also gives students the chance to explore extracurricular activities like athletics and the arts.

Middle school brings adjustments beyond the classroom as well.

Changes in the brain can prompt changes in behavior and emotions.

The social climate evolves as well, with students meeting an entirely new pool of classmates.

Fortunately, parents can take steps to make the transition to middle school a smooth one. The first step is to help students build a good foundation for keeping track of assignments and completing them.

Students need to develop a set of study and organizational skills at this age. Students can build those skills by using the assignment book they’re given on the first day of class, for starters. It is also suggested that parents schedule one hour of non-negotiable homework time.

Even if a student doesn’t have any assignments on a particular day, that time can be used to plan ahead or review the day’s lessons, for example.

Goal-setting, with a focus on short-term objectives rather than longterm ones, also is a priority.

As far as the social changes go, parents should be accepting as their children place a greater emphasis on relationships with peers rather than those with family members. Parents should be available, but not nosy, regarding a student’s business.

In helping their children conquer middle school, parents’ efforts will endure beyond the eighth grade. Students who are successful in middle school generally can go on to be successful in high school and beyond. Mastering the social and organizational skill set is of utmost importance to a student’s success.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

college Planning Your Way to H

ow important is involvement in extracurricular activities? Is doing volunteer work important? How do GPA and SAT scores factor into acceptance?

These are the questions many teens and their parents are pondering as they look into the next phase within the education process – college. By Karen Ferrieri

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West Jefferson Hills

There are a ton of resources out there to guide you through the process of ‘getting ready for college,’ but this process can be very overwhelming. Many people search online for answers and you can definitely find a number of websites online such as www.ehow.com to help guide you through the process. Ehow.com reads like a ‘how to get into college’ instruction manual. #1: Work with your school guidance counselor to plan your classes. #2: Plan out your classes carefully.

#3: Take the most challenging course work you can because college admission counselors would rather see you tackle harder courses than to settle for easier courses just to get higher grades.

They look for overall grade trends and class rank. Be careful though not to take too many or to set yourself up for failure. #4: Nail your PSATs, SATs and ACT exams.

#5: Get involved in extracurricular activities in your school and community. Stay committed to following through for a few months or years with that activity. #6: Develop a theme that runs through your high school years with the classes and activities that you participate in. For instance, if you love to paint, take art classes at school, volunteer with organizations that promote art awareness, etc. #7: Plan your summer with college in mind. Stay active and consider what your theme is and stay involved with things that are in line with the theme. #8: Get to know key people at the college that you want to attend.

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have questions or run into stumbling blocks along the way, your high school guidance counselor is there to assist you throughout the Following these steps will enable you to have a process as well. college application worthy of acceptance.

Make sure you have a target list of Consid er a ba schools that contains three tiers that lance b academ etween you go after. Your first tier is your Mr. Bob Atkins, Director of Admissions ics and being i in the safety schools, those that you feel for Washington and Jefferson College commu n nity – w volved strongly you will get accepted to. summed it up pretty simply. “Most colleges hether sports, it’s The second tier on the list contains employ are looking for the best fit for the college.” ment, o r v o your target schools, those schools l For instance, he said, “While academics unteer a c t i v S that you really would like to go to, i ties. tudent are important, extracurricular involvement, s shou o v however you have to be really certain ldn't b erwhel being able to show leadership ability, e med in to meet the grade requirements, etc. to employment history and progression of their p lanning but we make sure that you stand out against grades are also equally as important.” ll-round , ed. applicants to get accepted. And, finally, Atkins recommended, “If possible, find the third tier is your reach schools, out how to get a face-to-face interview with somethose schools that really are a far stretch one within the college. Consider when you apply for any college for you, but that you’d like to at least try program that the majority of applicants are all 4.0 high school students to get accepted to.

Having this tiered list of schools that you are with the SAT scores necessary to get them into a great college. So, what applying to will ensure acceptance to a school that you are will make you stand out against them? Then, go out and do what it takes interested in. to prove that you have the necessary means to show motivation to Once you have a career path in mind and a few colleges/ universities succeed and the ability to continue to grow within any program. And, that you are considering, do your research and do not be afraid to while colleges are seeing more ‘Gap Year’ admission students [those who consult with your guidance counselor, college admission staff and have chosen to take a year off after high school before entering college] others who currently work within the profession that you are they look at those applicants to see what they’ve done during the ‘off’ year interested in. You’ll be amazed at how much information and that shows productivity.” assistance is out there to help you prepare for college entrance.

While all of the information out there is readily available, if you do

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

REAL ESTATE

Schools Don’t Just Teach, They SELL IN West Jefferson Hills

W

here your child goes to school involves a lot more than whether their QPA can get them into the right college. It also is a huge factor when people are shopping for an existing home, or looking to build a new home altogether. Jeff Costa of Costa Home Builders said his clients look for top-performing school districts to build in.

“With new home construction in some of the top school districts, a lot of times they don’t have a lot of land to build houses. People would love to build a home there, however the land is usually not in the best shape or there’s already a house on it,” he said. “Coming down the list a little bit, where people are building homes is in the best school district where there are nice lots available. It definitely plays a role in where people want to build.”

Dori Thaner, who represents developments in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, said school district quality has a “big effect” on people’s decision to buy homes.

“The people who are buying in the upscale housing developments, they know that it’s all about education,

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West Jefferson Hills

getting their children the best education that they can. And they’re willing to move around and maybe not go into an area that they really want to be in because the school system is not there,” she said.

A great, non-biased tool for potential homeowners to access information on school districts is Standard and Poor’s www.SchoolMatters.com, where any schools can be compared based on a variety of factors.

It’s a comparison that could give you the edge when it comes to your property value when it’s time to buy or sell.

“There are a ton of places that have lots available, where their school districts are not as successful with test scores and different reputations, so the lots sell for a lot less money,” Costa said.

“The school district, I believe, is the driving force of the real estate market. I get calls all the time where people don’t have to be in the number one or the number three school district, but they do want to be in the top 20. If you’re looking at the hundred school districts in the Pittsburgh Business Times, the top 20 is probably where you’re going to see the people building houses.”

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

SCHOOL DISTRICT

INSIDE West Jefferson Hills School District A Fond F

arewell

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Camp for the S

Welcome!

District West Jefferson Hills School Board of School Directors

Converging T

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West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

W E S T

J E F F E R S O N

H I L L S

S C H O O L

Message from Dr. Timothy McNamee elcome to the inaugural issue of the IN West Jefferson Hills magazine. This stimulating publication will serve as the District Newsletter for the Jefferson Hills, Pleasant Hills and West Elizabeth Communities. Four times a year you will receive the IN Community magazine with news and photos of the many exciting programs and events happening in and around the school district.

I am thrilled to begin serving the West Jefferson Hills School District as substitute superintendent. The nearly forty years I have spent in public education demonstrate experience in all aspects of school and school district management. During the next few months, I hope to also make evident my passion, dedication, and leadership skills in moving the school district on a journey of continuous improvement. The West Jefferson Hills School District is already recognized as an outstanding school district in this region. That is a nice position to be placed; however, in these times of economic uncertainty and a new world economy, West Jefferson Hills must be constantly finding new strategies, technologies, and programs to advance educational experiences and opportunities for all of its students.

The West Jefferson Hills School District has planned, and is poised, to move into the second decade of the 21st Century.

You will read in this issue of IN West Jefferson Hills magazine about new administrators, committed educators, and focused School Board Members dedicated to educational excellence.

New programs and initiatives such as the Jaguars Virtual Academy at the high school and Alert Now, a parent notification system, will be highlighted in this issue of the magazine.

I am looking forward to this school year as a time we all get to know each other while we work together for the benefit of our students. Remember, Students First!

W

“

I am looking forward to this school year as a time we all get to know each other while we work together for the benefit of our students.

Remember, Students First!

Sincerely, Timothy F. McNamee, Ed.D.

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D IW S TE RS IT C JT E F• F W T N J ES FC FHE OR OS L O ND IS SCTHR OI C OT L E RE SS O

Welcome

Beth Wheat & Dr. Cynthia Fuselier

Dear West Jefferson Hills Community Members, These are exciting times for the West Jefferson Hills School District, as we face waves of change and new direction.

I am honored and grateful for the kindhearted welcome and reception I have received by the administration, staff, and faculty when I arrived as your Supervisor of Academic Programs. The West Jefferson Hills School District has long been a model of excellence for the Western Pennsylvania area and a symbol of pride in the community. It has been a great pleasure to meet the residents of Pleasant Hills, West Elizabeth, and Jefferson Hills, and I eagerly look forward to meeting more of you at district-sponsored and community events.

We are very proud of the excellent reputation the West Jefferson Hills School District has built over the years; however, it should be remembered that maintaining the status quo won’t work to preserve the level of excellence to which you are accustomed. It is important that we look forward to a philosophy of continuous learning and growth, and continue to innovate. There are always opportunities for enhancement, and we must take advantage of as many of these as we can. As Thomas Jefferson said, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” Although our past history garners great pride, our future holds great promise. Through imagination, innovation, and collaboration, we can best prepare our students and children for a rapidly changing global marketplace and give them the tools to function at the top levels of the world community.

The Board of Education puts students first and commits to funding and staffing comprehensive programs designed to offer all of our students, to best of the District’s ability, with a competitive edge.

From academics to athletics to the arts, the West Jefferson Hills School District provides opportunities for each student to personalize his or her education.

School districts are like any other large enterprise. The degree to which they succeed is in direct relationship to the number of people who work together to make plans work. That is why I invite everyone’s participation in the ongoing project of educating our youth of these first-rate communities. Please take the time to call or email me with your ideas, suggestions, and concerns. My role as your instructional leader will be to maintain high overall expectations of our schools through the implementation of the highest standards of curriculum, teaching methods, civic responsibility, and technology.

I am confident that together with the faculty, staff, administrators, and our caring community and families, and by joining our best efforts to fulfill the mission of West Jefferson Hills School District, we will continue to improve and evolve into an even greater entity. I am thrilled to be an educational leader in the West Jefferson Hills School District during this time of new beginnings with great opportunities on the horizon and honored to be an administrator in a school district where parents want to send their children and where the children want to attend.

Best regards, Dr. Cynthia Fuselier

•D I S T R I C T

•

Dr. Cynthia Fuselier began her duties as Supervisor of Academic Programs in the West Jefferson Hills School District in April 2010. She comes to us from the New Brighton Area School District where she served as Director of Curriculum.

Dr. Fuselier previously taught at Trinity High School in Washington, PA where she taught English 10 and 11 Advanced Placement for twenty-six years. Prior to her employment at Trinity, Cindi taught English 8 in the Ringgold School District.

During her twenty-nine-year career as a classroom teacher, she served as English Department Chair, mentor/cooperating teacher, A+ CourseWare System Administrator, and PSSA Coordinator.

She also served several four-year terms as class advisor and was the Student Council advisor for six more years. She was selected as Trinity Area High School’s Teacher of the Year in 1998, and she was honored as the Alpha Delta Kappa Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year in 2002. Dr. Fuselier has published in the Kansas English Journal and had a paper presented at the American Educational Research Association (AERA). She will have an article published later in 2010 in Educational Leadership. Cindi is a graduate of Duquesne University with a BS in Secondary Education – Communications, MS in School Psychology, and Ed.D. Educational Leadership. Cindi enjoys gardening, golf, and scrapbooking. She is a Eucharistic Minister and lector at Holy Rosary Church in Muse and volunteers for the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. She resides in South Fayette Township with her husband, Pete and her Maine Coon cat, Lily. Cindi enthusiastically looks forward to working with the faculty, staff, and administration in the West Jefferson Hills School District, and she looks forward to being part of the West Jefferson Hills family.

(Continued on next page)

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

W E S T

J E F F E R S O N

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(continued from previous page) Mrs. Beth Wheat began serving in her current role as the District’s Supervisor of Special Education/Pupil Personnel in midMay. It was an especially exciting time of year to join the District because she had the opportunity to observe several of the end-of-year celebrations and the very successful Reading Camp. The enthusiasm for educational excellence in West Jefferson Hills School District is infectious and she is excited to be part of such a vibrant school district.

Mrs. Wheat comes to West Jefferson Hills School District after spending thirteen years at Freeport Area School District in Armstrong County. She was the Special Services Coordinator for four years and prior to that position she was a Learning Support teacher for nine years at Freeport Junior High School.

Mrs. Wheat received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development from the School of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh. In addition, she earned a Masters Degree in Education and a certificate in Special Education Supervision from the University of Pittsburgh.

Mrs. Wheat lives in Thornburg with her husband Mike, a retired actuary. She has two young adult children, Laura and Mary.

Beth enjoys volunteering her time with adults with intellectual disabilities, puttering in the garden, is an avid reader, and enjoys music and theater.

I am looking forward to working with parents, teachers and administrators to continue to support the academic progress of our students.

Thank you to all the parents, teachers, staff, administrators, Board members and most importantly the students who have so warmly welcomed me into the West Jefferson Hills School District community.

Sincerely, Beth Wheat 12 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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4Sight Testing Introduced Districtwide he West Jefferson Hills School District is implementing the 4Sight Benchmark Assessments to students in Grades 3-10 beginning with the 2010-2011 school year. 4Sight Benchmark Assessments are quarterly formative assessments in Reading and Math that parallel the PSSA and provide an estimate of student performance on the PSSA. Data reports from the 4Sight Assessments describe how students could be expected to perform on the PSSA if the PSSA were administered on the same day as the 4Sight test.

4Sight Benchmark Assessments are one hour in length and include four tests to be administered throughout the school year. The 4Sight Assessments contain easy-to-use scoring rubrics to help teachers quickly determine each child's strengths and weaknesses. The assessments will create more opportunities to deliver the most effective and valuable instruction by providing information and data about how the students are performing. Developed by Success for All Foundation with items field-tested in Pennsylvania Schools, 4Sight supplies diagnostic information on PA Standards and specific subskills to steer classroom instruction and professional development efforts. The 4Sight Benchmark Assessments will be administered in the West Jefferson Hills School District to students in Grades 3-10 during the following testing windows: September 13-21, 2010; December 1321, 2010; February 7-15, 2011; May 2-10, 2011.

By Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Supervisor of Academic Programs, West Jefferson Hills School District

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eginning with the 2010-2011 school year, the West Jefferson Hills School District will implement a Jaguars Virtual Academy (JVA), which will be housed at Thomas Jefferson High School. There are many reasons a district-run virtual school is needed. The JVA is a vehicle for students wishing to attend cyber school. By having these students attend JVA, they will be more in the mainstream of the flow of TJHS, and they will be able to graduate from Thomas Jefferson. JVA is also for students requiring homebound instruction by enabling the student to step right back into their classes when they are ready to return to school. Credit recovery is another facet of JVA. Students who are lacking credits for graduation may enroll in JVA to make up missed credits. Alternative education students will be able to attend JVA to remain in the mainstream of education.

Each student enrolled in the Jaguars Virtual Academy will have a personalized education plan. Some students might want to attend a class live at TJHS and attend the remainder of their classes online. They will be able to do this in the JVA. The courses will be set up to be independent courses, not intended to be taught live in a live classroom. The personalized blended approach to learning will make JVA popular with students.

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day. A mathematics teacher, an English teacher, and a social worker were hired specifically to work with the students in JVA. A Director of Jaguars Virtual Academy will be hired before the start of the school year to oversee the program and to work with teachers K-12 in implementing technology in their classrooms.

The curriculum for students in JVA is varied and adaptable to the needs of each individual student. All students need varying degrees of student/teacher interaction, so a program will be set up for each individual student. This will not be a “cookie cutter” program. Some of the computer/online programs that will be in use in JVA include Study Island, Apangea (math), Fast ForWord, blendedschools.net, and Point Click Learn (A+ Software).

For the first year, the Jaguars Virtual Academy will be open to students in Grades 9-12 with hopes of expanding to other grades in the future.

For additional information regarding the Jaguars Virtual Academy, please contact Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Supervisor of Academic Programs at 412.655.8450 ext. 2227 or cfuselier@wjhsd.net.

By Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Supervisor of Academic Programs, West Jefferson Hills School District

AlertNow is a rapid communication system adopted by the West Jefferson

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Hills School District for the 2010-2011 school year. This replaces the current School2Phone system. AlertNow has the ability to send messages in the event of an emergency. The District anticipates using the system to notify parents of school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather; as well as to remind you about various events, including open house, field trips, and more. Messages can be delivered via a phone call, email, and SMS text messaging at rates of up to 2.5 million per hour. AlertNow can also interface with the District’s student information system to alert parents and guardians about unscheduled student absences. The AlertNow system will be used in addition to television announcements and the District’s website regarding delays, school closings and other emergencies.

The District is currently in the process of integrating the AlertNow system and we anticipate a rollout by mid October. Details about how the system functions will be available at that time.

We thank you in advance for your cooperation as we incorporate this new system. This is an integral part of our initiative to enhance parent communication and we look forward to having the ability to deliver real time information on emergencies and other school activities to you.

Please refer to www.wjhsd.net for information on AlertNow or visit the AlertNow website at www.alertnow.com for product features.

By Hamsini Rajgopal, Director of Human Resources, West Jefferson Hills School District

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

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Dear West Jefferson Hills Community Members,

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elcome to our new school year! We hope that you and your families have enjoyed that precious downtime afforded you during those “lazy days of summer.” Thank you for your continued partnership in our ongoing efforts to help every child achieve. We appreciate the countless hours that many of you volunteer for the betterment of our students and our school district, because we recognize that your support is essential to our children’s success.

Message from the SCHOOL BOARD

In our continuing quest for open and direct communication with our parents, students, and residents, we are excited to announce our school district’s presence in the first edition of IN West Jefferson Hills community magazine. We hope that the following provide you valuable information regarding the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff in the West Jefferson Hills School District.

We are extremely pleased to begin this new school year under the leadership of Dr. Timothy McNamee. An astute student of leadership, he brings to our school district his vast administrative experience, seasoned wisdom, and a committed focus on education.

Dr. Cindy Fuselier, our Supervisor of Academic Programs, brings to us a resolute commitment for student success, a focus on updating and aligning curriculum with standards, and experience in utilizing student data from assessments. She is an accomplished administrator who has developed and implemented many proven programs to improve student achievement.

Mrs. Elizabeth Wheat, our Supervisor of Special Education/Pupil Personnel, brings to our district her dedication to ensuring that all of our students’ diverse learning styles are accommodated. She has demonstrated a leadership style grounded in compassion for children and caring about their needs to be successful in school and in life.

Ms. Carlotta Del Vecchio, our Director of Instructional Technology and the new Jaguar Virtual Academy, brings to us her energy, drive, and enthusiasm for delivering education via the world of technology. Her impressive credentials are surpassed only by her varied experiences in the educational environment as well as in the corporate arena.

With these new members joining our family of excellent administrators and staff, we are certain that the coming year will hold many new and exciting initiatives for our students, and we will once again raise the bar of academic excellence in West Jefferson Hills.

Though it is with sadness that we accepted the retirements of many of our dedicated faculty and staff, we are excited by the energy and enthusiasm that our newly hired teachers bring into our classrooms.

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We would like to thank our neighbors for their support in obtaining our new electronic sign, which will be installed at Thomas Jefferson High School. Also, we extend a very special thank you to Senator John Pippy and Representative David Levdansky for awarding our district the grant money to fund this new addition. We additionally express our appreciation to you for assisting us with letters of support directed to Washington, DC which helped us in our campaign to secure $500,000 for our new Jaguar Virtual Academy. Our ability to secure funding via this appropriation, rather than from local tax revenue, is a direct result of our partnership with all of you.

As a board, we will continue our focus on the educational success of our students in carrying out both our local governance responsibilities, as well as in our statewide advocacy role, because we recognize that great public schools are the hub of vibrant, prospering communities.

From a fiscal perspective, we continue to responsibly steward the district’s assets, maintaining one of the lowest millage

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rates in Allegheny County. At the same time, we are prudently setting aside resources so that the district is positively positioned to tackle future facilities and financial requirements.

With community members, parents, students, administrators, faculty, staff, and the school board all working together, there is no limit to what our children can achieve! Thank you for your continued support.

With Sincerest Regards, THE BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS

Deborah Pozycki, Board President Anthony Angotti, Board Vice President Shauna D’Alessandro, Board Vice President Carolyn Bourgeois Alan Caponi Dr. David Graham Anna Louise Lilley Marianne Neel Anthony Rash

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

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he West Jefferson Hills School District Administration and Board of School Directors hosted a reception and “Black and Gold Star” presentation to honor retiring District faculty and staff. As our dedicated administrators, teachers, and staff embark upon this well deserved, unfamiliar phase in their lifetime journey, we would like to thank them for their commitment to our students, their loyalty to the West Jefferson Hills School District, and their resolve to the academic achievement of our students.

Our academic accomplishments as a District and our commitment to educational excellence persevere because of the dedication, professionalism, and pride of our faculty and staff.

How exciting when students are able to grasp complicated concepts, recite their times tables, or appreciate one of the great classical literary works. You, as our teachers, hold the key to our students’ academic success. You continually provide the encouragement for them to challenge themselves and the confidence in their efficiently achieving personal and academic success.

The school environment, which showcases “A hundred years gleaming floors, spotless walls and polished from now, desks is maintained by our dedicated staff and it will not matter what their retirement highlights their role in promy bank account was, viding a safe learning environment. the sort of house Our heartfelt gratitude for your countless I lived in, or the kind hours and combined numerous years. We wish you and your families all the very best as of car I drove. you begin this new phase of your well But the world may be deserved journey. different

because I was important in the life of a child.”

– Forest Witcraft

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Karen Bakalarski Gill Hall Elementary Kindergarten Teacher 34 Years of Service

Suzanne Mackulin Pleasant Hills Middle School Gifted Teacher 25 Years of Service

Mary Ann Temple Jefferson Elementary Second Grade Teacher 20 Years of Service

Sally Chiappetta Jefferson Elementary Kindergarten Teacher 35 Years of Service

Sandy Madden Pleasant Hills Middle School Mathematics Teacher 37 Years of Service

Nancy Yocco Jefferson Elementary Second Grade Teacher 37 Years of Service

Nancy Douglas Jefferson Elementary Third Grade Teacher 35 Years of Service

Debbie Markwith Pleasant Hills Middle School Sixth Grade Science Teacher 35 Years of Service

Audrey Minjock Gill Hall Elementary Third Grade Teacher 38 Years of Service

Linda James Pleasant Hills Middle School Librarian 34 Years of Service

Louise Persichetti Jefferson Elementary First Grade Teacher 23 Years of Service

John Yogan Thomas Jefferson High School Jefferson Elementary Health and Physical Education 35 Years of Service

Suzan Petersen Assistant to the Superintendent 39 Years of Service

Larry Cutter Custodial Maintenance

Jeff Lytle Pleasant Hills Middle School Eighth Grade Social Studies Teacher 35 Years of Service

Karen Sheppard Gill Hall Elementary Fifth Grade Teacher 35 Years of Service

Joanne Greenwald Jefferson Elementary Music Teacher 34 Years of Service

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Judy Markley Gill Hall Elementary Title I

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

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Unsung Heroes

&Shining Stars

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riday Night Lights” convey a connotation of meeting friends at the gate, cheering for your high school football team, sporting your school colors, watching in awe those uncatchable catches, non -stop action, a team victory, and the famous “final minutes of the game.”

However, for the Thomas Jefferson High School Varsity Football team under the direction of Coach Bill Cherpak and the Woodland Hills Varsity Football Team, under the direction of Coach George Novak, “Friday Night Lights” presented a showcase of unsung heroes and shining stars.

The Football Camp for the Stars was a two day football training experience for athletes with Down Syndrome.

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“The participating athletes learn football fundamentals, and when they take their place on the field, they are in the middle of the action.” This experience included on field instruction from the San Francisco 49ers Defensive Line Coach, Jim Tomsula, the University of Pittsburgh Head football Coach Dave Wannstedt, Valley Christian Warriors Head Coach Mike Machado, and our “Famous Former TJ Jaguars,” Lucas Nix, Nate Nix, Dom DeCicco, and Chris Drager.

The Camp for the Stars hosted by Thomas Jefferson High School and Woodland Hills High School, was sponsored by Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Down Syndrome Center. The “star athletes” entered the gates wearing their numbered

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jerseys, a look of determination, and their intention to “be in it to win it.”

Their amazing spirit was evident in their “goal crossing” dances, high fives, and selfconfident sprint. Under the guidance of current and former high school football players, the athletes practiced tackling, running, play calling and sacking their talented instructors. They gracefully caught passes thrown with precise velocity and raced to the end zone with the greatest of ease.

A heartfelt thanks to Coach Cherpak, Coach Garrity, Coach Novak, Coach Tomsula, our “Star Athletes,” our TJ Alumni, the Thomas Jefferson and Woodland Hills Varsity Football Players and the Down Syndrome Center for dedicating their time and talents to coordinate such an awesome football experience.

By Mimi Haley

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

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The West Jefferson Hills School District would like to recognize and thank our neighborhood partners who serve as the elected West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors: Mrs. Deborah Pozycki, President Mrs. Shauna D’Alessandro, Vice President Mr. Anthony Angotti, Vice President

Mrs. Carolyn Bourgeois Mr. Alan Caponi Dr. David Graham Mrs. Marianne L. Neel Mrs. Anna Louise Lilley Mr. Anthony Rash

Kudos to this nine member board who continuously advocate for our children, dedicating their time and talent in sustaining the District's long held tradition of educational excellence and student achievement, which positively impact the West Jefferson Hills Community.

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olunteer members of the West Jefferson Hills Board of School Directors are elected officials who are also our relatives, neighbors, volunteer coaches, PTA members, and friends.

Perhaps when you by chance meet a member of our school board out and about in the community, you may wish to express a heartfelt thank you for the time and effort they devote to the District’s educational standard for excellence and student achievement.

Information obtained from What is a School Board and Responsibilities and Functions of Local School Boards, published by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association: The school board is a legislative body of residents, which serve the district for a four-year term. This is an elected position, reflective of the constituents within the school district’s community.

This voluntary position carries immense responsibility. School Directors are

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both state and local officials. Though elected locally, they serve on behalf of the State Legislature. School boards are units of local government; the only such unit spelled out in the State Constitution.

School boards are legislative bodies empowered to set policy within the framework of the statutes enacted by the legislature. School boards are not administrative bodies. They set policy for administrators to carry out, participate in long range planning and evaluate the results. School Directors represent the interest of the general public, which includes the children in the schools.

School Directors also offer a variety of professional, educational, and community experience.

School Directors serve as co- partners with the state legislature and are designated by school law to administer the school system.

The authority to establish, equip, furnish, operate, and maintain the public schools is vested in the local board of school directors.

The school board is primarily responsible for the education of our District’s 3,000 students in grades kindergarten through twelve.

Working with the District’s Superintendent, Administrators, and Business Manager, they are also responsible for financial decisions and fiscal accountability. As a group, the board is not an administrative body.

Their role and responsibilities directly affect our educational structure.

School Boards have three functions: ■ Planning ■ Setting Policy ■ Evaluating Results Planning- Boards are required to engage in

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long-range planning by regulations of the Board of Education. Appropriate reports of the results of such planning must be filed with the Department of Education.

Setting Policy- The central responsibility of a board, both in theory and in law, is to be the policy-forming body. The idea of local control of education means the policies governing the operation of schools are to be formed in response to local needs and desires. Policy means actions of the board that set written goals and objectives for the school.

Evaluating Results- The board’s responsibility is to evaluate the results of planning.

Evaluation leads to more planning and occurs both formally and informally. Board members receive information to constantly keep them up-to-date on a broad range of activities that are in progress regarding board policy proclamations.

The West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors meets the third and fourth Tuesday of the month in the

An effective School Director is characterized by the following: ■ A deep desire to serve children ■ A strong belief in the value of public

schools ■ Local control of public education ■ The ability to work as a team ■ To engage in open discussion ■ To support the decisions of majority

consensus ■ Willingness to spend the time required

to become informed and to participate in effective school board meetings ■ Recognition that the school district is probably one of the largest businesses and employers in the community ■ To accept the responsibility for overseeing a well managed enterprise ■ Professional respect for district staff

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cafeteria at Thomas Jefferson High School. The first meeting is referred to as the Work Session, where agenda items are publicly discussed and the second meeting is referred to as the Regular Meeting, where the discussed agenda items are voted on. The board approves an agenda item if it receives a majority of votes. Each board member is entitled to vote upon agenda items as presented or to motion to alter the presented item.

Voting is done publicly and recorded by the Board Secretary.

The West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors utilizes a committee system, whereby a few School Directors chair and serve on such committees to address items at this level before bringing the items to the full Board for action. Current committees address Education/Technology, Finance, Personnel, Athletics/Student Activities, Policy, and Facilities/Renovations. With the exception of Personnel, committee meetings are publicly advertised, and community residents are welcome to attend and to make public comment in this smaller setting. Committee meetings can serve as a forum for members of the school community to address a particular issue before the administration and in conjunction with members of the Board.

Click on to BoardDocs The West Jefferson Hills School District Community now has the opportunity to follow District issues, review the monthly meeting agenda and the voting outcome, at their convenience. Visit the District Website, click on the School Board Tab and link to BoardDocs.

Also, a copy of the monthly “Board Notes” are available at all District buildings or via the District's website at www.wjhsd.net.

West Jefferson Hills| Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

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Converging Technology

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lassrooms of the Future (CFF) are presently taking place in the West Jefferson Hills School District. Classrooms of the Future was initially implemented with a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, totaling $121,000 and $25,000 in additional funding from the Districts’ General Fund.

According to the Classrooms of the Future Resources Pennsylvania Department of Education, “CFF enables teachers to use technology as an effective tool for educating students. This initiative will transform the way high school teachers teach and how students learn. Additional funding provided teachers extensive training on how to best harness technology to increase student achievement. Chalk, blackboards and textbooks are still essential components for educating students today but there is no question that in order to adequately prepare our students for life beyond the classroom we must incorporate a greater level of technology into our schools. Classrooms of the Future will create learning environments that students will find engaging and that will pique their interests, which is a critical component to increasing student achievement.”

The District’s state-of-the-art equipment includes Promethean white boards, laptop computers, projectors and wireless access points.

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The following defines a sampling of the Web Tolls being used in conjunction with the Districts’ state -of -the art technology equipment: Photostory 3 - a Web Tool which allows students and teachers to create videos using images and audio on topics they learned in class.

Wikispaces - a Web Tool which allows teachers to create a space where students can collaborate and share ideas.

Pod Casting - a Web Tool which allows students and teachers to place an audio recording of a lesson or lecture on a Wikispaces.

Thomas Jefferson High School Computer Science/ Mathematics teacher Frank Staffen, serves as the CFF Integration Coach. His coaching role “ensures that district faculty and staff acquire the understanding and skills to develop the onsite capacity to integrate technology into classroom instruction in core academic areas, use data to make informed instructional choices and promote instruction that is individualized for all students.”

According to Thomas Jefferson High School Science teacher Wendy Matta, “When technology is integrated into science, lecturing on scientific theories or concepts can now be seen in three dimension. It encourages collaboration, organization, communication and creativity.” Her students also have the opportunity to join

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a FaceBook chemistry student work group. She also utilizes her Wikispaces to update information. Utilizing these technology tools has resulted in increased communication among her students and increased class participation.

When technology and education converge, learning opportunities for our students are limitless.

The following compiled by West Jefferson Hills Technology Coordinator Suhail Baloch, highlights District teachers utilizing “Technology in the Classroom.”

Thomas Jefferson High School English teacher David Shearouse uses technology in his classroom to promote cooperative learning in his student’s study of the literary works The Canterbury Tales, Hamlet, Othello, Dorian Gray and 1984. In his student-centered classroom, students use technology to lead their peers through studies of the selected works and associated topics including vocabulary, figurative language, and thematic debate.

Pleasant Hills Middle School Mathematics teacher Lindsey Mitko uses technology in a variety of ways to enhance her instruction and improve student cooperation. Her students used Play-Doh, a digital camera, and Windows Movie Maker to create Claymation math movies on topics such as order of

operations and adding integers.

Gill Hall Elementary third grade teacher Stephen Lauso uses a mounted digital projector to present multimedia content to his students. He is able to enrich lessons using web based resources which include PowerPoint, Prezi, and Inspiration.

Jefferson Elementary Art teacher Adam Gebhardt introduced his students to animation using digital cameras. Integrating science, mathematics, and writing, students told a story with photographs. The original scripts were written by the students and photographed in student created sets and backgrounds.

McClellan Elementary third grade teacher Jackie Neice integrates technology into her classroom by streaming online videos for additional learning, using PowerPoint presentations to enhance learning and recording the daily “Good Morning McClellan” announcements, which are placed on a shared network drive, for viewing by the McClellan Elementary students.

We invite you to visit the West Jefferson Hills School District Website, www.wjhsd.net, to read “Technology in the Classroom” in its entirety.

By Mimi Haley

WestJefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

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The West Jefferson Hills School District

2010-2011 BUDGET Information submitted by Mr. Joseph W. Zupan, Business Manager, West Jefferson Hills School District

he West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors approved the 2010-2011 General Fund Budget with no increase to the current millage rate of 21.08. Local revenues continue to increase primarily due to real estate taxes. The District’s collection rate for 2009-2010 is estimated to be approximately 96.0%.

Budgetary discussion and financial decisions for the District continue to reflect our fiscal responsibility. When comparing millage rates to other school districts located in Allegheny County, West Jefferson Hills School District currently ranks 12th out of 43 districts. Comparable millage rates in Allegheny County range from 13.92 mills to 35.00 mills.

The financial commitment of the District to the community has included the hiring of teachers to replace those who have retired. The savings represented by these hires has enabled the District to continue to invest substantial dollars into our education programs, revising curriculum, updating textbooks for core subjects in grades kindergarten through twelve, and upgrading technology. We also continue to safeguard our educational facilities, maintaining their security, cleanliness, and efficiency.

We will sustain our quest for educational excellence, and continue to provide our students one of the best educational opportunities in Western Pennsylvania.

As shown in the corresponding chart, District Revenues total $37,497,972. State Revenues total $10,818,352, which represents only 28.9% of the District’s total budget. District expenditures have increased 3.6% from 2009-2010 to $37,497,972. Salaries and Benefits represent 56.4% of the District expenditure budget and Debt Service represents 10.2% of the District expenditure budget.

The projected Unreserved/Undesignated Fund Balance for the West Jefferson Hills School District is $2,127,727 or 5.7% of budgeted expenditures. The projected Reserved/Designated Fund Balance (Designated Future Expenditures) for the West Jefferson Hills School District is $9,000,000. These Fund Balances have positioned the School District to move forward in a healthy financial condition.

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FISCAL YEAR 2010-2011 BUDGET SUMMARY BEGINNING FUND BALANCE $11,127,727 (Represents a combination of Unreserved/Undesignated and Reserved/Designated Fund Balances) REVENUES 6000 Local Sources.............................

7000 State Sources..............................

8000 Federal Sources..........................

9000 Other Sources.............................

TOTAL REVENUES................................

$25,530,810 $10,818,352 $1,133,810 $15,000 $37,497,972

EXPENDITURES 1100 Regular Programs.......................

1200 Special Programs.......................

1300 Vocational Programs.................

1400 Other Instructional Programs.....

2100 Pupil Personnel...........................

2200 Instructional Staff.......................

2300 Administration.............................

2400 Pupil Health.................................

2500 Business.......................................

2600 Maintenance and Plant ............

2700 Transportation.............................

2800 Support Services - Central.......

2900 Other Education..........................

3200 Student Activities.......................

3300 Community Services..................

4000 Facilities.......................................

5100 Debt Service................................

5200 Fund Transfers............................

TOTAL EXPENDITURES......................

$14,012,466 $4,551,126 $653,670 $665,993 $1,261,139 $1,021,638 $2,376,252 $544,142 $387,080 $3,463,897 $2,306,024 $1,353,865 $38,091 $982,464 $72,200 $0 $3,807,925 $0 $37,497,972

REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES......................

$0

ENDING FUND BALANCE Unreserved/Undesignated Fund Balance.......................................

Reserved/Designated Fund Balance TOTAL FUND BALANCE......................

$2,127,727 $9,000,000 $11,127,727

FA L L 2 0 1 0

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

What’s Inside

Play It Safe Kick off the fall sports season and keep your kids in the game with this guide to help prevent sports injuries. (page 3)

© 2010 UPMC

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A Fast Start to a Speedy Recovery ‘Super Track’ design delivers emergency care improvements

page 3

Play It Safe No One Dies Alone

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Are You Concussion-Savvy?

School Lunches That Make the Grade

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Who Knew Rehab Could Be So Much Fun?

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A New Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies

page 7

Women’s Health Through the Years

A Fast Start to a Speedy Recovery ‘Super Track’ design delivers emergency care improvements Thanks to a major $13.2 million expansion and renovation project, and an innovative ‘Super Track’ concept at UPMC Mercy’s Emergency Department (ED), patients will find shorter wait times and streamlined care for minor illnesses or injuries.

Although the project won’t be completed until October 2011, many “patient friendly” improvements are already in place.

One improvement features a reception area staffed by a clinical nurse who makes quick assessments and assigns patients to one of three levels of emergency care.

The new system takes Super Track patients — those with minor injuries and illnesses needing less urgent care — through treatment and discharge. This frees up space, beds, and resources for patients with more critical needs.

“We’re speeding up the front-end process by diagnosing and treating quickly,” says Thomas Gronow, executive director of UPMC Mercy’s Emergency, Trauma, and Burn Services. “We’re targeting patients who have had to wait the longest in traditional ED treatment models. Our goal is to get them in and out within an hour.”

Three Patient Tracks for Customized Care When patients arrive at UPMC Mercy’s ED, they are assessed by the clinical nurse who assigns them to one of three areas: • Super Track offers speedy care for less-acute, “treat-and-release” patients with earaches, broken wrists, cuts and scrapes, and other minor problems.

• North Track treats moderately ill patients who may be treated and released — or possibly admitted. These patients need more attention, testing, and diagnosis in order to determine the care needed. Examples include patients with abdominal pain, asthma, or severe headaches.

• South Track is for patients with life-threatening or limb-threatening injuries or illnesses, such as crushing chest pain or traumatic injuries.

Immediate treatment is provided. This area also houses the region’s only combined Level I Trauma and Comprehensive Burn Center.

“We’re treating patients more effectively and more appropriately. The whole point is to get patients to the practitioner as soon as possible, which initiates care more quickly and puts us in the best position to optimize outcomes,” says Michael A. Turturro, MD, chief of Emergency Services at UPMC Mercy. That means less waiting and frustration for patients.

New Technology and the Latest Amenities Work on the 18-month ED project, which began in February, is taking place in phases to minimize disruption. A new 128-slice CT scanner was recently added to provide the latest imaging technology with faster scanning capability.

By the time the project is completed, 11 beds will be added to the ED. In addition, patients and visitors will be able to access the Internet on laptops, and watch shows on high-definition, flat-screen TVs.

Fast Fact: There’s a Growing Need for Emergency Care UPMC Mercy’s Emergency Department (ED) has been treating approximately 45,000 patients annually. Last year, the ED reported 60,000 patient visits, an increase of 25 percent.

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Play It Safe Many youth sports injuries can be prevented by following these practical suggestions Sports and exercise offer undeniable benefits. But for millions of young athletes, they also bring risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sports injuries among high school athletes alone are on the rise, accounting for nearly two million injuries, 500,000 doctor visits, and 30,000 hospitalizations every year.

Injuries range from strains, sprains, and fractures to concussions and heat stroke.

Freddie H. Fu, MD, chairman of the UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and renowned sports medicine expert, blames much of the increase in injuries on today’s trend of kids focusing year-round on one sport.

Experts attribute the high rate of youth sports injuries to:

Dr. Fu says it’s important for parents and coaches alike to understand the dangers and take steps to keep children safe. He recommends the following:

• overuse • trauma • lack of preventive measures (including proper equipment, training, and conditioning) The CDC estimates that more than half of all sports injuries involving children and teens are preventable.

“Kids are doing too much. Now, there’s no off-season. When they’re not playing, they are practicing and at a very intense level,” he says.

Keep Your Kids in the Game

1) Cross-train and avoid specializing in one sport to create balance and avoid breakdowns in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.

2) Take time off from competition to allow muscles and joints time to rest and recover.

3) Use the right gear and make sure it’s in good condition and fits properly.

Insist your child uses the recommended safety gear.

4) Ensure proper techniques are used for throwing, running, and swinging.

5) Take time to stretch before a workout/game and cool down after.

6) Maintain good hydration when playing to avoid fatigue and keep the body cool.

Remember, playing sports should be fun. Check out our website at www.UPMC.com/Today for details on the top four injuries that occur among young athletes.

Mercy Volunteers Are Making a Difference in a Patient’s Final Hours Compassionate care has been at the heart of UPMC Mercy’s mission since it opened its doors to the community in 1847. In the next few months, the hospital will take its mission of mercy to a new level with the launch of No One Dies Alone.

Since it was created in Oregon in 2001, the No One Dies Alone program has been adopted for use in more than 300 hospitals worldwide. UPMC Mercy is the first hospital in the Pittsburgh region to offer this initiative.

Volunteers in the program are trained to be with a dying patient when friends or family are unable to be there. Not surprisingly, a large portion of the inaugural volunteer group is comprised of Mercy staff, says Denise Verosky, director of the No One Dies Alone program. “Plans for this program have been in the making for 10 months, and the people at UPMC Mercy have championed it every step of the way,” she says. “It coincides beautifully with the culture and mission of the hospital.”

Volunteers work together to sit with dying patients around-theclock for the last days or hours of life. Comforting measures that volunteers provide can include playing soft music, reading aloud, or just sitting together quietly.

“It’s a wonderful comfort for dying patients and their families to have this optional service available,” says Ms. Verosky.

To learn more about the No One Dies Alone program and other volunteer opportunities at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-8198.

1-800-533-UPMC

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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Are You ConcussionSavvy?

Measure your understanding of concussions with these five questions.

Most of us think of a concussion primarily as a sportsrelated injury — and statistics show that one out of every five reported concussions is sports-related. But any violent shaking or blow to the head can lead to a concussion.

“A suspected concussion should be taken seriously — whether it happens on the playing field, in your home, or on the job,” says Michael (Micky) Collins, PhD, assistant director of the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program.

A nationally recognized expert in sports-related concussions, Dr. Collins co-created — along with Mark R. Lovell, PhD, director of the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program and Joseph C. Maroon, MD, vice chairman of Neurosurgery at UPMC Presbyterian and neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers — the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) “Concussion Tool Kit for Physicians.”

How much do you really know about concussions?

Take this true-false quiz to test your understanding of this common but potentially life-threatening injury: 1. A concussion is a brain injury.

True or False 2. Signs and symptoms of concussion can develop right after the injury or even hours or days later. True or False 3. Concussions occur even if the person has not been knocked unconscious.

True or False 4. A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first can slow recovery or increase the likelihood of long-term problems.

True or False 5. Concussions can have a more serious effect on a young, developing brain.

True or False If you answered “true” to all five questions, you’re ahead of the game — but there’s more you should know.

Get the facts about concussion symptoms and treatment at www.UPMC.com/Today.

Did You Know?

ImPACT , the concussion evaluation system most widely in use worldwide by professional, college, and high school sports teams, was developed at UPMC by Dr. Lovell, Dr. Collins, and Dr. Maroon.

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www.UPMC.com/Today

School Lunches That Make the Grade Kids need more than pens, pencils, and notebooks to successfully get through a day at school. They also need healthy lunches. Here are some tips on how to make sure your child eats healthy foods while at school: • Get your child involved with the planning and packing of lunches.

• Acknowledge his or her likes and dislikes.

• Assemble lunch the night before to avoid morning delays and/or hurried choices.

• If your child buys lunch at the school cafeteria, make sure he or she knows the difference between healthy and unhealthy foods.

• Teach your child about portions and portion control.

• Think healthy and think light.

• Teach your child to eat until no longer hungry, not until “stuffed.”

Stumped for ideas on what to pack?

Try these healthy options: Main dishes Sandwich made with wholegrain bread, lean meat, and low-fat cheese; or peanut butter and all-fruit jelly on whole-grain bread Pita pocket stuffed with shredded turkey, chicken, or light roast beef; or grated vegetables, low-fat cheese, and light salad dressing Mini pizza, whole-grain English muffin, or bagel topped with turkey pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and garlic herb cream cheese Low-fat tuna or chicken salad on a mini bagel Fruits and vegetables Red pepper strips, carrots, celery, sugar snap peas, or green beans with salsa or light ranch dressing Fresh fruit Fruit cups Applesauce

Healthy snacks Low-fat yogurt, either in a cup or a tube Wheat crackers with peanut butter or low-fat cheese Cottage cheese, with or without fruit Pudding made with skim milk String cheese Salsa with baked chips Peanuts Small bag of light popcorn Occasional treats Baked or low-fat potato chips Fun-size candy bars Low-fat cookies Foods to limit Regular snack chips (potato, tortilla, etc.)

Full-size candy bars Regular cookies Canned fruits in sweetened syrup

Innovation at UPMC

Who Knew Rehab Could Be So Much Fun? Last November, John Rizzi,* 50, noticed numbness and tingling in his feet. A few weeks later he suddenly fell while hunting. By January, he was paralyzed from the chest down — only able to move his head and shrug his shoulders.

Eventually diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that damaged the protective covering of the nerves (myelin sheath) and interfered with the signaling process, John arrived in March at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its Gaming and Robotics Center for intensive therapy.

“When I saw the advanced equipment, I was amazed. It inspired me to do whatever I could to walk again,” John says.

Playing computer games and doing simulated tasks using robotic devices such as the Armeo Boom enabled John to move his arms and regain fine motor skills. A robotic treadmill called the Lokomat made it possible for him to walk.

“I started seeing gains right away. That made me want to work even harder,” he says.

Fun and Games for Effective Rehabilitation The Armeo Boom — available for clinical use at UPMC and nowhere else in the nation — is one of several cutting-edge devices used in rehabilitation at the center. To use it, patients strap their arm into a sling attached to an overhead boom.

Robotic supports allow patients to move their arm while playing reach-and-retrieval computer games, such as solitaire and placing apples in a shopping cart, along with simulated tasks such as cooking or cleaning.

“Rehabilitation can be very tedious and painful.

A lot of repetition is needed to teach the body to move again,” says Michael Boninger, MD, director of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute. “Using this technology is kind of sneaky. It’s great to see patients enjoy playing a game when you know they are actually working hard at rehabilitation.” * Mr. Rizzi’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.

John, who has regained most of his abilities, agrees.

“It was more like playing a game. You’re working, the sweat is running down your face, but it’s fun. You’re getting the movement and the repetition you need, but you’re laughing,” he says.

Dr. Boninger says patients benefit from using the very latest technology. UPMC researchers have developed their own designs, and companies often send their prototypes here for evaluation.

Other innovative devices used at the Center include the GameCycle , a machine invented at the University of Pittsburgh that combines a stationary hand cycle with a commercial video game; the Armeo Spring — a companion to the Armeo Boom; and several Nintendo Wii systems.

“Technology is very important in rehabilitation. Having a therapist move a patient’s arm repeatedly works, but not nearly as well as having the patient move his own arm while it is supported by a robot and while he is playing a game,” says Dr. Boninger. “Computer games also provide quick feedback and measure improvement, which adds to the sense of accomplishment.”

Virtual Therapy at Home The Nintendo Wii can be a useful tool for patients as they maintain their physical rehabilitation program at home. It’s relatively inexpensive, and many of the games incorporate the repetitive motion required in ongoing therapeutic exercises.

“We can tell patients to do an exercise 500 times in the next week,” said Dr. Boninger.

“But many people just won’t do it. Tell them to play Wii Tennis and they’ll do it and have fun.”

Dr. Michael Boninger shows how the Armeo Boom’s games and simulated tasks allow rehab patients to work hard and have fun.

1-800-533-UPMC

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A Pioneering Force in Maternal-Fetal Medicine

A New Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies Having a baby is one of the most natural things in the world, but it’s not risk free.

For some women and their unborn children, the risks can be especially great, with potential for the development of life-threatening complications.

Transforming their treatment and medical outlook is the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. The program has long been recognized as a leader in MFM, an obstetric subspecialty focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of expectant mothers and their fetuses who may be at high risk before, during, and after pregnancy.

Many conditions can potentially put women at higher risk during pregnancy, including: • Pre term labor • Becoming pregnant after age 35 • Multiple birth pregnancies (twins or triplets) • Family history of birth defects or genetic disorders • Medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid or kidney diseases, and pre-eclampsia Working Together for Mother and Child “Many MFM programs nationwide are available only at children’s hospitals.

At UPMC, our comprehensive program of caring for mother and fetus is offered through Magee,” explains Stephen P. Emery, MD, director of the division’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center.

“The maternal component is central to our mission; it’s a natural extension of our hospital’s historic focus on women’s health.”

The center’s MFM physicians are supported by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals with expertise in high-risk pregnancies, including anesthesiologists, geneticists, radiologists, and bioethicists. “We work together and apply our collective knowledge to find solutions for each patient’s needs,” says Dr. Emery.

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The goal is to give women and their families the information they need to make informed decisions about their pregnancies. The center then provides critical counseling and planning support, and state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical services.

Magee’s close partnership with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC also links newborns with congenital abnormalities to neonatologists, pediatric surgeons, and other specialists for ongoing care after birth.

“Thanks to the tremendous technological advancements in MFM in recent years, we get to know an unborn child inside and out during a high-risk pregnancy — from his or her chromosomal makeup to cardiac anatomy. We’re prepared to quickly address any health care needs immediately after birth — or even in utero if needed, ” says Dr. Emery.

“Just as importantly, we’re also able to ensure that the mother’s continuing health needs are met.”

Typically, an obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife will refer a woman to Magee’s MFM team for initial evaluation.

However, women can contact Magee directly at 412-641-3382.

Learn more about Magee’s Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and its Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center at www.UPMC.com/Magee.

Did You Know?

Maternal-fetal medicine services are available at UPMC Mercy (412-232-8111) and UPMC Horizon (412-641-6361).

Advancing the Quality of Care Through Research Despite major medical advancements in recent years, the causes of many fetal complications remain a mystery. That’s why research is so critical to the efforts of Magee’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center. “Through our research, the quality of our care extends far beyond what patients see,” says Hyagriv Simhan, MD, chief of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and an experienced investigator at the Magee-Women’s Research Institute (MWRI). “Magee is recognized for its pioneering research and medical advancements in MFM,” adds Dr. Simhan.

The first research center devoted exclusively to the health concerns of women and infants, the institute’s current MFM research initiatives include preterm birth, genetics, placental function, and pre-eclampsia.

Exclusively for Women Understanding the life stages of women’s health care You know it’s true. Balancing family life, work responsibilities, household chores, and volunteering leaves little time for yourself.

Making time for routine doctor visits that can prevent illness and identify potential problems is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family.

“Women’s health means care throughout their lives — from beginning menstruation, to having healthy babies, to having a healthy menopause and senior years,” says Stephanie Nicholas, MD, clinical assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UPMC Mercy and Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. Whatever their age or stage of life, women can depend on UPMC Mercy’s ob-gyn physicians for checkups and preventive care, testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatment. UPMC Mercy also offers specialty care, including obstetrics, gynecology, midwifery, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, and women’s cancer.

An Ounce of Prevention Each stage of a woman’s life brings different health care needs requiring gynecological and obstetrical care. For adolescents, early education, immunization, and counseling on high-risk behavior can play a vital role in their future health. For all women, routine gynecological exams are key to a healthy life, allowing doctors to tailor screening and services to their individual needs.

Adolescent Girls

Midlife and Menopause

The adolescent years can be difficult as girls undergo a series of changes, including developing breasts, beginning menstruation, and emerging sexuality. Roberta RenzelliCain, DO, an obstetrician and gynecologist at UPMC Mercy and Magee, advises that all girls receive the HPV vaccine by age 11. The vaccine — “the biggest thing to happen in young women’s health” — prevents cervical cancer, genital warts, and other serious health problems caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), she says.

Menopause, the end of menstruation and fertility, is a major transitional period in a woman’s life. While menopause is a natural biological process — occurring in most women between ages 45 and 55 — it causes estrogen levels to plunge, resulting in decreased muscle mass and bone density, plus hormonal changes that can disrupt a woman’s life and sap her energy. Doctors can help with these and other symptoms, including:

Girls should see a gynecologist once they become sexually active or for help in dealing with: • • • • • •

Onset of menstruation Managing periods Signs of infection Physical development Birth control Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Childbearing Years The 20’s and 30’s are a woman’s primary childbearing years. Preventing problems — especially taking folic acid to protect against birth defects — and promoting good health is the focus of care during this stage. Obstetric care includes preconception counseling, family planning, pregnancy, and delivery. Because bone mass peaks around age 30, doctors also emphasize bone health, exercise, and calcium intake.

Other health-related issues include: • • • • •

Irregular periods Excessive bleeding Vaginal infection and discharge Pelvic pain Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• • • • • • • • •

Excessive or irregular bleeding Hot flashes Night sweats Diminished sex drive Headaches Vaginal dryness More frequent urinary urges Difficulty sleeping Fatigue and irritability

Golden Years While the senior years bring freedom from birth control and menstruation, health issues for older women can be complex.

A gynecologist can help women deal with symptoms and guide them to healthy behaviors that can help prevent, delay, and control disease and protect against frailty. Common health issues for older women include: • • • • • •

Cancer Postmenopausal problems Arthritis and joint pain Coronary heart disease Urinary incontinence Osteoporosis

Learn more at www.UPMC.com/Mercy where you’ll find suggested guidelines for a woman’s good health.

1-800-533-UPMC

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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy.

UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care.

UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more.

From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most.

To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMC.com/Mercy.

West Jefferson Municipal News

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

West Jefferson Municipal News

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he Borough of Jefferson Hills recently took a major step in addressing its future when the Council adopted a new Comprehensive Plan, its first since 1997.

The project was funded through a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The Comprehensive Plan is a statement of goals and objectives that establishes a borough's vision for the future. While not technically a legal document dictating how the borough developed, the comprehensive plan is meant to outline a vision to be realized over the next 10 years via planning policy and regulatory tools. Therefore, a comprehensive plan contains policy goals for every aspect of the borough including, for example, land use, transportation, housing, parks and open space, infrastructure, and economic development.

34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

West Jefferson Municipal News The development of the plan started in mid2008 with the selection of Pashek Associates, a Pittsburgh based planning and design firm, as the consultants for the project. Pashek developed a three-step process for the development of the plan that included the questions: “Where are we now?”

“Where do we want to go?”

“How do we get there?”

To answer the first question, our consultants conducted research on the various components of the Borough, including housing, demographics, economics, transportation, natural resources, recreation and public safety. A summary of each of these components was prepared that included maps.

To address the second question, our consultants developed a survey that was randomly distributed to borough residents. The survey queried residents on how they felt about living in the borough and which priorities should be addressed in the future. In addition to the surveys, the consultants conducted two public meetings where residents prioritized future needs of the borough. Together, this public participation effort helped formulate a vision statement for the borough for the next ten years.

Finally, an implementation plan, with specific strategies was developed by the consultants. Implementation strategies include: revisions to the Borough Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, attracting more commercial development to meet the needs of residents, preservation of natural resources, improvements to parks and recreation areas and development of a Town Center.

Over the next 10 years, the Borough Council, with advice from staff and the Planning Commission will work towards implementing the Plan to keep Jefferson Hills Borough a great place to live and raise a family.

Meet the New Borough of Jefferson Hills Engineer/ Public Works Director The Borough of Jefferson Hills recently hired Robert Noll, P.E. as Engineer/Public Works Director as part of a reorganization effort to improve Borough operations. Robert graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in civil engineering and has over nine years experience in engineering and supervisory roles with an engineering consulting firm. He will oversee the engineering and public works operations of the Borough and provide engineering support to all departments. Robert can be reached during regular office hours at the Municipal Center at 412.655.7760.

Storm Water Phase II – MS4 Compliance he Borough of Jefferson Hills is required to submit permit applications to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for the Borough’s storm sewer systems. These permit applications must meet storm water MS4 requirements. The objective of these requirements is to minimize the storm sewer system impacts to water quality. To meet the requirements, the Borough will be confirming and mapping the storm sewer system including outfalls and storm water management ponds. Each outfall and facility will be prioritized, screened, and inspected periodically with repairs being made as needed. During this process, you may notice Borough employees on your property if needed. Please contact the Borough at 412.655.7760 if you have any questions.

Residents can help the Borough with MS4 compliance as well. One way to help is to build a rain barrel. A rain barrel collects and stores the rainwater from your gutters to use to water grass or a garden. A rain barrel is inexpensive and easy to construct. By installing a rain barrel at your home, you will reduce flooding in your yard or your basement, save money by reducing your water bill, and protect our streams and rivers from pollution. Detailed information about rain barrels, including construction instructions, is available at the Borough building and on the Borough’s web site.

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West Jefferson Hills Historical Society

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he West Jefferson Hills Historical Society was formed in 2000 to be a depository for local artifacts, to preserve the history of the area, and to assist citizens in the research of their family histories.

The Society meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Community Room of the Jefferson Hills Municipal Center. A program centered on history is presented each month and is free to the public. Membership in the Society is open to everyone and the dues are $10.00 a year. Members receive informative newsletters every three months, free admission to the John Heinz History Center, annual holiday party and other discounts and activities. The Borough has provided us with a room where we store our treasures and where members can use our files for research.

The Society is under the . t 7 p. m a umbrella of the Jefferson Hills 7 2 er Library and works closely with the , Octob orld War I I y a d s e library and its director.

Wedn m is “ W oa

te t ogra the pr rial: A Tribu Memo neration . ” Ge

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

West Jefferson Hills Library News & Events Library Hours: Mon-Thurs 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Closed on Friday

Book Discussion Meets the first Monday of the month.

7:00 p.m.

No registration required.

October: Girl with the Dragon Tattoo November: Sarah’s Key December: Pope Joan Yoga (Beginner Class) October 4 through November 18 6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Tuition is $5.00 per class.

Registration required.

Instructor: Dita Badam Bring a yoga mat.

Introduction to the Internet October 5, 12, 19 10:00 a.m. in the library Free Registration required.

Instructor: Gilbert Smith Scrabble Club Meets on Tuesdays.

Noon till 4:00 p.m.

No registration required.

Everyone is welcome.

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West Jefferson Hills

West Jefferson Hills Library News Fall and Holiday Party Foods October 20 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Free Registration required.

PG Food Editor Bob Batz, will present a program on easy to prepare party foods.

Jefferson Hills Library Adult Programs Climbing Your Family Tree October 19, 26, and November 9, 16 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Free Registration required.

Instructors: Debbie Morinello and Beverly Borneman This class will explore your family roots using census information and various internet sites.

Free Haircuts for Locks of Love December 5 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registration required Locks of Love is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing wigs to disadvantaged children who have lost their hair due to illness.

The Library will sponsor a free haircut by local professionals.

You must be willing to donate a minimum of a 6”pony tail to this worthy charity.

Guidelines can be found on www.locksoflove.org Christmas Table Craft December 20 6:45 p.m.

Fee $40.00 includes all materials.

Registration and pre-payment required.

Join Jim Carlucci, owner of Della Robbia as you create a holiday arrangement of fresh greens.

Children’s Programs Story Times for Pre-School – Kindergarten Oct. 7, 14, 21, Nov. 11, 18, Dec. 2, 9.

Two sessions each day: 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Fancy Nancy Tea Party Nov. 6, 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Preschool through elementary Registration required.

Holiday Fun Craft and Stories Dec. 11, 10:30 a.m. to noon Preschool through elementary Registration required.

Teens and Tweens Get “Crafty”!

October 6, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Registration required.

Meet with your friends to make an autumn decoration.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting (T.A.B.) November 7, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Registration required.

We will be making Thanksgiving packages for the troops.

SAT Preparation Classes October 10, 17, 24 & 31, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Fee: $175 Registration required.

Parental permission required.

Programs for All Ages Build a Gingerbread House Dec. 2, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Register by Nov. 27.

The Sherlock Holmes Reading Society For ages 13 and up.

Details to be announced.

Light-Up Night Nov. 29, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Pictures with Santa, crafts and refreshments.

Visit Jefferson Hills Library for: • Books, magazines, newspapers • Books on CD, MP3, cassette • DVDs for all ages • Downloadable video & audio • Free WIFI connection • Color and black & white copies • FAX • Laminating and Book Covering • Free use of 9 online computers • Microsoft Suite The Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library Membership forms can be found on the “Friends” link on the library’s homepage.

Donations of gently used books and costume jewelry welcome all year round.

Watch for Spring, 2011 book sale dates.

Jefferson Hills Library is a member of the Allegheny County Library Association.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

West Jefferson Municipal News West Elizabeth Borough 4 Lincoln Street West Elizabeth, Pennsylvania 15088 412-384-8200

Jefferson Hills Mayor: Michael Green 412.653.0979 Borough Manager: Doug Arndt 412.655.7735 Financial Officer: Jennifer Pesanka 412.655.7735 Building Code Inspector: Renee Teck 412.655.7760 Solicitor: Mike Adams Tax Collector: Josephine Lipnicky 412.655.7735 District Justice: Pat Capolupo 412.653.2102 Planner/ Zoning Officer: Allen M. Cohen 412.655.7760 Council Chris King: President James Weber: Vice Chairman Scott Albrecht Jan Cmar Vickie Ielase Tracey Khalil Kathleen Reynolds Elected Officials State Senate John Pippy 937 Beaver Grade Rd. Moon Twp., PA 15018 412.262.2260 Voice 412.262.3783 (Fax) jpippy@pasen.gov State House of Representatives David Levdansky 122 Second Ave. Elizabeth, PA 15037-1549 412.384.2258 Voice 412.382.2023 (Fax) dlevdans@pahouse.net Public Services Police Dept.

Jefferson Hills Police Department 925 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.655.2222 412.655.8365 (Fax) Chief of Police: Martin F. Reagan 38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Fire Dept.

Jefferson 885 Area Volunteer Fire Company 380 Wray Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Non-Emergency: 412.384.5141 Emergency: 911 Ambulance Service Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association 2121 Century Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Non-Emergency: 412.384.0111 Emergency: 911 Library Jefferson Hills Public Library 925 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Telephone: 412.655.7741 FAX: 412.655.4003 Monday through Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: CLOSED Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sunday: 1 - 4 p.m.

(Closed on Sunday in Summer) Utilities Refuse/Recycling Waste Management of PA 800.866.4460 Cable Television AT&T Broadband 412.655.4992 Telephone Service Verizon 800.640.2032 Electric Service Allegheny Power 800.255.3443 Duquesne Light 888.393.7100

West Jefferson Hills

Gas Service Columbia Gas Company 888.460.4332 Water Service Pennsylvania American Water Co. 412.344.4400 Pleasant Hills

Pleasant Hills Borough 410 E. Bruceton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Borough Offices: 412.655.3300 Borough Fax: 412.655.5048 Mayor: Warren F. Bourgeois Borough Manager: Deborah A. Englert, 412.655.5032 Borough Solicitor: Fred C. Jug, Jr., 412.255.6500 Borough Engineer: Ned Mitrovich, 412.264.4400 Bldg. Code Officer/Zoning Officer: Ed Reddy, 412.655.5034 District Magistrate: Pat Capolupo, 412.653.2102 Public Health Officer: Curt Neill, 412.655.3300 Public Works Department: Denny Kunkel, 412.655.5036 Council: John "Greg" Parks: Council President Janet K. Nevling: Council Vice-President Robert S. Bootay, III James P. Funkhouser Robert D. Karcher Bradley Rodeheaver Williams D. Trimbath Meetings Public Council Meeting - 3rd Monday of each month @ 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 2nd Floor

West Jefferson Municipal News Public Planning Commission Meeting - 3rd Tuesday of each month @ 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 2nd Floor (These meetings are scheduled as needed) Zoning Hearing Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.

Council Chambers (These meetings are scheduled as needed) Authority Board Meeting - 4th Wednesday of each month @ 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 2nd Floor Library Board Meeting - 3rd Thursday of each month @ 7:00 p.m. at Pleasant Hills Library Public Services Police Dept.

410 E. Bruceton Road Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Emergency: 911 Non-Emergency: 412-655-5045 Chief: Ed Cunningham Fire Dept.

Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Company 72 Clairton Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15236-3911 Non-Emergency: 412.653.2222 Emergency: 911 Ambulance Service Baldwin Emergency Medical Service, Inc. One Readshaw Way Pittsburgh PA 15236 Emergency: 911 Business: 412.884.0666 Fax: 412.884-5717 Chief: William E. Plunkett Animal Control Service Ferree, 412.672.6699 Garbage & Recycling: Waste Management 1.800.866.4460

Supervisor of Academic Programs: Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Business Manager/Board Secretary: Mr. Joseph Zupan Director of Human Resources: Ms. Hamsini Rajgopal

Alan J. Caponi 191 Meadowfield Lane Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.655.1026 Mr. Ira Weiss, Solicitor 445 Fort Pitt Blvd. Suite 503 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412.391.9890 Fax: 412.391.9685

School Board Deborah Pozycki, President 110 Stevens Ridge Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.384.2277

Schools Thomas Jefferson High School 310 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone 412.655.8610 Principal: Mr. Timothy W. Haselhoff

Anthony M. Angotti, Vice President 1505 Marion Drive Finleyville, PA 15332 412.384.8369 Shauna M. D'Alessandro, Vice President 304 Springhouse Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.653.4250 Dr. David L. Graham 118 Stettler Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.460.1470 Anna Louise Lilley 2020 Ridge Road Finleyville, PA 15332 412.384.2870 Marianne L. Neel 250 Capitol Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412.655.9423 Carolyn Bourgeois 395 Grace Street Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412.655-7995

Pleasant Hills Middle School 404 Old Clairton Road Pleasant Hills, PA 15236-4398 Phone 412.655.8680 Principal: Mr. Daniel Como Jefferson Elementary 875 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025-3131 Phone 412.655.4163 Principal: Mr. Dennis Peterson Gill Hall Elementary 829 Gill Hall Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone 412.655.4732 Principal: Tina Mayer McClellan Elementary 360 School Lane Pleasant Hills, PA 15236-4193 Phone 412.655.2700 Principal: Ms. Margaret (Peggy) Sollon

Anthony J. Rash, Esq. 708 Kathleen Drive Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 412.714.3611

West Jefferson Hills School District Administration Building 835 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone 412.655.8450 Fax 412.655.9544 Administration Superintendent: Timothy F. McNamee, Ed.D. Assistant to the Superintendent: Mrs. Suzan Petersen, West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

Sponsor a Soldier or Marine for Christmas

T

his year we are trying to send christmas stockings to as many U.S. Troops as we can. We are going to purchase food, snacks, and supplies and stuff the stockings full for our troops. Being away from home for the holidays is very difficult for a soldier or marine and we hope that the stockings will be a great morale booster.

If you would like to sponsor a soldier or marine, please send $10.00 to Military Connections Corporation. Your ten dollars will cover the cost and contents of the stockings. You can also include a note or picture and we will put it in the stocking. In order to make sure that the stockings reach the troops by Christmas, we have to mail them by December 5th.

All donations are tax-deductible. If you have any questions you can call us at the number below. Thank you for your support.

Military Connections Address: ITEMS 312 Auburn Street NEEDE GRANO D FOR L Pittsburgh, PA 15235 SMALL A BARS STOCK INGS Phone: 412.496.8941 WITH PCANNED GO SINGLE O O CANDY P-TOP DS P SERVE militaryconnections.org O L C W ID A D S SM NE MIN E AL RED GATOR Email: militaryconnections POP TS AND GUS ADE INDIVIDL TOYS -TART M UAL BA IN@hotmail.com DIVIDU S S G N A S A L C O BOX OF CH KS, PRETZEF LOLLIPCEREAL ES LS, INDIVIDIPS SKITTL OPS OF COUAL BAGS STARB ES INDIVID OKIES SMAL URST OF CRUAL BAGS POWERL TRINKETS A B A T TERIESCKERS SINGLE BARS P L AA A Y S KOOL- ERVE SLIM JING CARDS OR AAA AID SIN IM S GLES BEEF JE AT&T RKY WHITE CALLING C ATHLE ARDS TIC SO CKS

he Southwestern Group is a healthcare organization that has served the South Hills community since 1972. The campus is nestled in the heart of Pleasant Hills, less than a mile from Century III Mall along Lewis Run Road. What makes the Southwestern campus unique in the Pittsburgh area is its full Continuum of Long-term care with available medical and surgical services on-site. The campus includes Southwestern Nursing Center, Southwestern Assisted Care Residence, Arrowood Independent Living, Southwestern Ambulatory Surgery Center, and Southwestern Health Center.

A true medical visionary, Dr. Philip Ripepi founded Southwestern Group, Ltd. in 1972. His innovative work as a general surgeon and his dedication to the ongoing health and welfare of the people in the Pittsburgh area has been revolutionary.

In 1987, Southwestern Ambulatory Surgery Center came to fruition as the first freestanding, non-hospital affiliated outpatient surgery facility in Western Pennsylvania.

The Skilled Nursing Center is a 118-bed full service nursing care facility that offers long-term and rehabilitative care for the elderly, convalescing and chronically ill.

The Southwestern Assisted Care Residence, developed in 2001, offers support to those who are striving to remain independent, but are in need of help with activities of daily living.

Arrowood is an independent living community, which was developed in 1997.

Comprised of 123 apartments, the building is located on a 40-acre site in a quiet wooded setting. Arrowood truly is retirement the way it should be.

Located along Lewis Run Road in Pleasant Hills, Southwestern is both a resource and a convenience to the residents of the South Hills.

The campus is easily accessible from both Route 51 and Route 885.

For more information on the services offered or for directions, please call 412-4696950 or visit www.southwesternhealthcare.com.

T

F

or more than 20 years, the professionals at Southwestern have been helping families determine the best senior living option for their loved ones.

FREE SMOKE ALARMS FOR ALLEGHENY COUNTY RESIDENTS

We offer worry-free and affordable living in lovely surroundings coupled with the supportive services seniors need to live their lives with quality and dignity.

From independent living to assisted care or skilled nursing and rehab care, Southwestern Group, Ltd. provides help when it is needed most and peace of mind to our families.

Focus on Homes with No Smoke Alarms or Ones Too Old to Be Reliable The Allegheny County Health Department has a free smoke alarm program for residents who have no smoke alarms or ones too old to be reliable. “Smoke alarms are proven lifesavers but only when they are in good working order,” said County Health Director Dr. Bruce W. Dixon.

Nearly half of all smoke alarms don’t work because they have missing, disconnected or dead batteries or are more than 10 years old and no longer reliable. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a house fire by 50%, yet most residential fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or defective alarms. The program, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, provides and installs a maximum of two battery-operated smoke alarms per home.

To schedule an installation, please call the Health Department at 412-247-7800.

Visit our web site at: www.achd.net 40 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

Enjoyable Senior Living Options and Exceptional Healthcare-

Also available onsite: Physician Offices, Diagnostic Services and Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Lewis Run Road, Pleasant Hills

All at One Location!

(412) 469-6955 www.southwesternhealthcare.com

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Oldeer Adults in West Jefferson Hills

A

by Josh Wetmore

survey conducted by the Investor Protection Trust in May 2010 revealed that over 7.3 million senior citizens in the U.S. have “been taken advantage of financially in terms of an inappropriate investment, unreasonably high fees for financial services, or outright fraud.” That equates to about one in five senior citizens who have been scammed.

Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Pennsylvania executive counsel, said that fraud against senior citizens can come in just about any form. Some of the more popular scams include lottery scams, sweepstake scams, email scams, charity scams, and even jury duty scams.

“Caution and moving slowly are paramount in any of these situations. And not allowing yourself to be pressured into giving either personal information or any amount of money without doing your own personal due diligence or homework on the issue,” Bach said about how to generally avoid scams.

Here are some other tips Bach gives to help senior citizens better avoid scams and fraud:

42 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

•

Don’t give money to a charity over the phone. Ask them to mail you something.

This gives time to research the charity.

Chances are, if the charity is just a scam they won’t send you anything anyway.

•

than one and someone might recognize a red flag that you didn’t see.

•

Sign up for both the state and national ‘do not call’ lists. These will weed out most legitimate solicitors so if a soliciting call gets through, there is already a warning sign.

When dealing with a financial planner or retirement advisor, make sure that both they and what they are selling are Remember the adage “If it sounds too registered with the state of Pennsylvania. good to be true, it probably is.”

To check on the registration and history of a salesperson, financial plan, or product call either the Pennsylvania Insurance Commission at 1.877.881.6388 or the Pennsylvania Securities Commission at 1.800.600.0007.

•

•

Always be wary of any letter, email, or phone call that requires an immediate or quick response. If there isn’t enough time to carefully consider a proposition before committing to it, there is probably a reason.

•

Discuss what you are thinking of doing with a trusted friend or family member before making any final decisions. Two heads are better

West Jefferson Hills

Retirement;

it’s a stage of life

that many people look forward to. It’s a chance to relax, and finally accomplish lifelong goals. It can also be an opportunity to make up for lost time with family and friends. For many, however, retirement can mean having so much time with so little to do, and often no longer having a job can lead to no longer have a sense of accomplishment or self worth.

There is a solution to the problem though. Volunteering can

not only give retired senior citizens a new sense of purpose but

Senior Agencies Chabad of the South Hills 1701 McFarland Road Pittsburgh, PA 15216 www.chabadsh.com 412.341.1494

it can also help the community, the economy, and the future of the country.

“There is just talk about, as the economy continues to be on a bit of a downslide, how important volunteers are,” said Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Pennsylvania executive counsel.

“Lots of older consumers have really wonderful skills and backgrounds that can be of benefit.”

Volunteer opportunities for senior citizens in the Pittsburgh area can range from helping deliver mail at a hospital to working with high school students in a classroom environment through the University of Pittsburgh’s “Generations Together” program.

“Volunteering makes people feel good, but it not only is self

Transportation For Older Adults

Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine 412.350.5460.

There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services Are you a non profit Senior to individuals who qualify.

Center serving the needs of our communities older Medical Assistance adults?

Transportation Program We would be happy to post (MATP) your contact information.

1.888.547.6287 Contact Provides non-emergency Marybeth@incommunity medical transportation to magazines.com with your residents of Allegheny center’s name and phone County who have a valid number.

Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card.

serving to that degree that you’re happy about doing something

that you enjoy personally, but the beneficiaries of that volunteerism gain so much,” Bach, a senior citizen herself, said.

Some other ways for senior citizens to get involved are through senior citizen organizations such as AARP and The Senior Source. Many local libraries also offer volunteer positions.

AARP’s “Create the Good” program is focused on helping senior citizens find volunteer opportunities that will fit their schedule, meet their personal interests, and help their community. To get involved with “Create the Good,” go to www.createthegood.org or call 1.800.556.0242.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

F A L L

2 0 1 0

Back to School Jokes Adopt a Pet: T-Bone Q: What's the worst thing you're likely to find in the school cafeteria?

A: The food!

Q: Why did nose not want to go to school?

A: He was tired of getting picked on!

Q: How do you get straight A's?

A: By using a ruler!

Q: What did the pen say to the pencil?

A: "So, what's your point?"

Q: What did you learn in school today?

A: "Not enough, I have to go back tomorrow!"

When you meet T-Bone, he will offer you a Beagle smile and shyly, by surely, try to climb into your lap. This gentle fellow is brimming with affection and simply needs someone to give it to.

A couple months ago, T-Bone probably felt like the luckiest, most beloved dog in the world. But then, sadly, his owner passed away. T-Bone came to Animal Friends, 10 years old and hoping to find a second chance and a fresh start.

T-Bone is calm, lovable, and simply wants to share your company. He is curious and friendly around other dogs and enjoys peaceful rides in the car. He is crate trained and always polite. But most of all, T-Bone is lovable. He

adores people and constantly wants to cuddle. While it’s obvious that he loves all women, we’ve noticed that he is particularly drawn to men. Perhaps they remind him of his Dad, who he misses so much. If you are looking for a companion who’s more interested in cuddling and relaxing than playing, T-Bone could be the one for you.

T-Bone is currently in foster care. If you can help a loving and deserving dog, call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002.

find these things hiding in this picture.

44 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

R G R O U N D Rules for Being Home Alone L So E S

Some families put up a list of rules where everyone can see them, like on the refrigerator door. Other families write out a contract and have each member sign it, saying they agree to the rules. Or a family might just go over the rules out loud. But whatever

you and your mom or dad have decided you're mature enough to take care of yourself after school. Every weekday, you'll come home, let yourself in, and then what?

Good question! This is why you'll need to set up some rules - before you're home alone.

✪ Should you call mom or dad as soon as you get home?

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Find each of these words in this puzzle.

Back to School!

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method you use, there are a lot of questions to talk about, like:

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✪ Are you allowed to watch TV, DVDs, videos, or play computer games? If so, which ones and for how long? ✪ Should homework be done first, even before chores? ✪ Can friends come over?

If so, how many? ✪ What can you eat if you want a snack? ✪ Can you go outside, and if so, where? ✪ Which appliances can be used? (microwave, computer, etc.) ✪ Which chores need to be done and by when? ✪ Should your parent call home just before leaving work each day?

For example, would it help to have a heads-up in time to finish any lastminute chores before they arrive?

*HW PRUH IUHH SULQWDEOH DFWLYLWLHV IRU NLGV RI DOO DJHV DW ZZZ SULQWDEOHV NLGV FRP West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

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Shop Gill Hall Road IN Your Community

46 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

*

Shop Gill Hall Road IN Your Community

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

Costa Homebuilders

F

or Jeff Costa, owner of Costa Homebuilders, building a custom home is more than picking countertops and crossing items off a punch list.

It’s as unique as the clients he builds for.

“We get to know our clients as individuals and

Costa provides small-scale drawings and works with clients until the layout of the home is enthusiastically agreed upon and that their budgetary plan is met.

“Every step is significant, and our clients tell

study their lifestyles,” Costa said. “This provides

us that our process is enjoyable because of its

unique insight into a client’s true needs and desires.”

organization,” Costa said.

48 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

At DPS Penn, we have a unique approach to oil and gas leasing. We ensure that all owners of oil and gas rights are fully educated in the leasing and operations process.

We recognize our responsibility to the areas in which we lease and we are committed to bettering the communities we work alongside.

Now Leasing in Allegheny, Butler, Greene, Washington & Westmoreland Counties

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Creating a home with the lifestyles of the clients in mind gives homebuyers not just a house, but a destination, making every turn into the driveway the last turn before a peaceful respite from the world.

Whether you want to escape the concept of the formal dining room to opt for a large kitchen and informal dining room, or you simply want to eliminate a living room in favor of a den, Costa can work with you to bring your dreams into design.

For more information on Costa Homebuilders, call 412.384.8170, or go to their website â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.costahomebuilders.com to download their free brochure, see their communities, and view their models and inventory.

50 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 51

JEFF COSTA, Builder

ABOUT OUR COMPANY: Costa Homebuilders is a fourth generation, family-owned construction company based in Pittsburgh, PA. At Costa Homebuilders, our goal is simple: Provide our customer with the most positive experience possible during the building process. Our clients receive the finest product at the greatest value possible.

We are one of the area’s leading building companies.

“Quality” is a word we hear every day. It is a word used by many people, yet few are able to achieve it. We employ and do business with the most professional and highly skilled people available. Our vendors provide quality materials and our employees provide expertise, commitment, and their personal pride in “a job well done.”

Our standards are set above and beyond the familiar “industry standards.” It is our job to deliver these standards to our customer and ensure that they receive a quality product.

Over the past 32 years, Costa Homebuilders has developed an extensive resource base.

We search for the right product at the right price. Our network of materials and suppliers is continually updated and enhanced. We believe QUALITY goes hand in hand with EXPERIENCE and is achieved through paying attention to detail.

412-384-8170

52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

By Pamela Palongue

MOMS

RETURNING TO SCHOOL

FACE UPHILL,

BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE, BATTLE W will not come as a shock that many

ith the high rate of unemployment, it

mothers are returning to school for more education in order to be more employable and to be able to provide better benefits for their families. What might surprise you is that more than ever, universities, trade and specialty schools are offering extremely flexible schedules and payment plans for the special challenges that moms face in furthering their education.

One of the major drawbacks to attending college is the loss of income while in school.

Although night classes have been available at most universities for years now, Saturday classes are now becoming more common and many of the schedules include meeting every other weekend. This gives working moms the ability to hold down a day job for 40 hours during the week, while still retaining the all-important health insurance benefits for their family while attending college on the weekends. More classes than ever are being offered on Saturdays. And, of course, night classes offer greater flexibility for employed mothers as well.

Another challenge for moms attempting to advance their education is finding care for their child while they are in school. The high cost of daycare can be prohibitive for those already on a tight budget. Many mothers have the advantage of family members close by to pitch in with child care duties, but this may not be practical for some mothers whose parents or in-laws live hours away. One great way to resolve this issue is to trade babysitting time. When mothers coordinate their class schedules, they can attend classes at opposite times so the other mother can babysit both mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

One of the major drawbacks to attending college is the loss of income children. Another great way to overcome the high cost of daycare is to trade services.

An individual may be willing to provide child care in exchange for house cleaning or having errands performed. Retired individuals who have the most flexible hours are a great solution in this arrangement.

For some, completing a four year college may not be practical either for time considerations or financial reasons. There are many careers available with educational programs that are less than two years.

Education and the medical field consistently rank highest for career fields experiencing the most growth. For individuals who already have a four-year degree, universities offer a teaching program that can be completed in one year.

Although a bachelor of science in nursing is a four year degree program, some local hospitals offer two year nursing programs sans the degree. Some of these facilities offer free education in exchange for two years of devoted service at their facility. For even shorter programs in the medical field, medical assistants and emergency medical technicians offer alternatives. Local EMT programs last approximately four months and the tuition is under $200.

In addition to the above-mentioned career fields, information technology, massage therapists, barbers, cosmetologists and medical insurance billing all offer programs with shorter duration for busy moms and most offer payment options so that upfront payment of full tuition is not required.

Each womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path to educational advancement is different, but perseverance is the common denominator. With dedication and hard work, every woman can accomplish her goals. And now more than ever, there are many avenues to achieving your dream.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

THE GARDEN CLUB OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY

Creating Beauty and Preserving it for Future Generations A Garden in Every School

heGardenClubofAlleghenyCountyhasbeenhelpingtocreatebeautiful outdoor surroundings and educating all ages about the importance of conserving our natural spaces since 1914.

Some of their projects in the recent past include supporting the program that will connect the Montour Trail with the Three Rivers Heritage Trail via the County Sports Legacies Project. This will enable people of the South Hills to commute to work by bicycle or on foot without having to deal with vehicular traffic.

The group also contributed funds to help repair the Montour Trail following Hurricane Ivan in 2005. Approximately 10 miles of the trail were impassable following the torrential rains, but the trail was reopened less than a year later, thanks in part to funding from the Garden Club of Allegheny County.

Conservation is a core objective for the club and they have supported many local projects in an effort to educate our youth about preserving our natural environment. One program in which they have been actively involved is “A Garden in Every School.” This initiative helps schools to create vegetable gardens on campus where the children can learn about growing their own produce which is then served in the school cafeteria.

The Garden Club of Allegheny County was also instrumental in

T

54 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

marketing for PASA, (Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture) and is supportive of their initiatives.

In addition to the wonderful local projects, the Garden Club of Allegheny County has been able to contribute to vital research that is effecting positive global change. Longtime club members Paula Sculley and Susan Clancy launched a program in 1995 called “Botany in Action.”

The program was in direct response to the concern for our vanishing rainforests and the loss of indigenous plant species. Many of these plant species are indispensable in the treatment of certain diseases.

The Botany in Action program sponsors graduate students who are working in endangered hotspots, such as the South American rainforests to aid them in continuing their education and the groundbreaking research that they are conducting. Some of this research has led to the discovery of using plants for medicinal purposes such as saw palmetto to treat enlarged prostate and a plant commonly known as dragon’s blood to promote faster healing. Although the Garden Club turned the Botany in Action program over to Phipps Conservatory in 2000, they still actively contribute to its funding.

Without fundraising, the Garden Club of Allegheny County would not have been able to support so many meaningful projects. Surprisingly, the club holds only one major fundraiser a year called Pizzazz.

Sculley and Clancy were also the catalysts in launching this event in 1995. Sculley explains that her daughter was weaving beautiful shawls at the time and Clancy’s daughter was crafting monogrammed duffel bags.

The two women got together and decided to hold a trunk show selling the hand-crafted wares to benefit the Garden Club. When other club members learned of the idea, they quickly contacted other vendors to participate.

The first Pizzazz event was held at Clancy’s house and according to Clancy was a rainy, stormy, horrible day. “It was terrible weather for getting outside, but wonderful weather for shopping.” In just a few hours they had made $17,000 to sponsor their projects! “There were so many people we had to have them come in and shop in shifts,” says Sculley.

This one-day trunk show has evolved into a three-day boutique

shopping event. Pizzazz 2010 will be held at the Fox Chapel Golf Club, from October 20 - 22. Admission to the event is just $10 for daytime shopping. A buffet luncheon is included for a $25 admission price. This will be a unique opportunity to shop for exclusive items and Christmas gifts from 34 vendors from various parts of the U.S. Proceeds this year will help benefit local projects and the rooftop garden of the Center for Sustainable Landscapes Building at Phipps Conservatory. This rooftop garden will be beautifully landscaped and contain an edible vegetable garden. Several different green building methods will be used to generate energy onsite and to treat and re-use all water used in the building in an attempt to conserve our natural resources.

Sculley adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of people think of the outdoors as a dangerous place. But in fact itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very healing and stress relieving.

Nature gives us a different perspective on human life.â&#x20AC;?

If you are interested in attending the event or would like more information on the activities of the Garden Club of Allegheny County, you may visit their website at www. gcacpgh.org.

Jefferson Hills Manor Opens New Carriage House

W

hile Jefferson Hills Manor has been known for its excellent skilled nursing and rehabilitation, this fall, they are adding to their services, an independent living unit in their newly remodeled Carriage House.

Geared towards seniors aged 62 and Stepping Stone between hospital and home. older, the Carriage now open. This gym will offer even more House is designed for one or two person options to residents who need extra attenoccupancy, is ground level, and includes a tion when it comes to their physical, occurefrigerator, stove and microwave. Because pational, and speech therapy needs. it's on the Jefferson Hills Manor campus, Located at 448 Old Clairton Road, the Carriage House is literally a stone's Jefferson Hills Manor is a skilled nursing and throw away from skilled nursing and reharehabilitation facility that offers private and bilitation services, a barber and beauty semi-private rooms and a new therapy gym. salon, recreational opportunities and Tours are available by appointment. To optional dining plans available. schedule a tour of Jefferson Hills Manor or What's more, Jefferson Hills Manor has a the Carriage House, call 412.653.1128 x 111. brand new rehabilitation gym onsite that is West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

A

s a catholic, I firmly believe that if you are forced to deal with an automated operator for more than 10 minutes, it should

automatically be credited towards time in purgatory. And if you can accomplish this without throwing the phone against the wall, you should at least be considered for canonization.

The strange thing is, if I am calling to subscribe to their services or upgrade my account, there are 346 cheerful operators eagerly standing by to take my call. But if I have a problem with billing, a technical question or need repairs, I hear, “Please hold and the next available representative will be with you shortly,” while I wait for one of the three customer service agents in North America to answer my question. Next I am asked to enter my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code, only to have Phyllis eventually answer my call and ask for my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code. Do they do that just to keep you busy? I’m not sure. Then as further protection, I am asked for my mother’s maiden name, my aunt’s street address and the exact measurement of my third molar. All of this precaution is in case there are evil forces who might want to find out if I have call waiting or how many channels I receive.

But while I wait for Phyllis, I am treated to 15th century Bulgarian chamber music, interrupted every 20 seconds by a voice saying, “Did you know that you can check your account online at www.Don’tBotherUs.com?” Strangely, I would rather just listen to the Bulgarian chamber music without the interruptions. Or just stick forks into my eyes repeatedly.

And instead of an annoying woman’s voice, can’t I at least listen to Gerard Butler’s sexy Scottish accent? Or perhaps Antonio Banderas’ liquid Latino purr? Why must this annoying woman answer the phone no matter where I call?

And how much is she getting paid? Is it more or less than $40,000 a year? Could I perhaps be the new automated woman voice? Do I have what it takes? Why don’t tornadoes happen in the winter?

Could ice cream be considered a breakfast food? It does have milk in it… These are the things that I think about while I am on the phone waiting…

56 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

By Pamela Palongue

Automated voices seem to have pervaded every area of our lives. Recently I was taken aback when I called my doctor’s office for lab results after my yearly check-up and was told to call another number where an automated operator coldly gave me the lab numbers with no explanation of what they meant. It is entirely possible that I have Feldspar Disease or cataracts because I don’t have a clue. What’s next, being informed you have a serious disease via an automated operator? For diabetes, press 1.

For an insulin prescription, press 2.

To freak out that you have diabetes, press 3. For more information on managing your diabetes, try the internet, watch Oprah, ask your next door neighbor, the guy on the bus or just anyone so we don’t have to talk to you.

We hate people. Thank you for calling.

Goodbye.

What has happened to us?

Why do we hate talking to each other? Someone, somewhere has to make a stand by taking that first phone call. What if everyone in the entire nation just agreed to start answering their phones tomorrow?

When that phone rings, just pick it up and bravely say, “Hello.” Sure the other person may hang up on us or even scream at us, but be strong. They can’t reach through that phone line and ring your neck no matter how threatening they sound. And the world will be a better place that you stood up to that phone and showed it who’s boss. And while we’re on the subject of improving our world, can’t we all just agree to start the workday at 10 a.m.? Would anyone really mind getting a couple of extra hours sleep every morning? We could all have ice cream for breakfast. I was just thinking…

West Jefferson Hills

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