SPRING 2012
Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association Caring for the Community
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Plus! West Jefferson Hills School District Newsletter Jefferson Hills Borough Newsletter
INSIDE
SPRING
2012
IN West Jefferson Hills is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Jefferson Hills area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Jefferso Area Amb n Hils ulance Associa Caring fortion Commun the ity
IN West Jefferson Hills | SPRING 2012 |
Plus! West Jefferson Hills District Newsl School etter Jefferson Hills Borough Newsl etter
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COMMUNITY INTEREST
West Jefferson Hills School District ................................................ | 5 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................................... | 25 Jefferson Hills Borough ................... | 34
| From Front in Photo Michael Horgos, Douglas Pascoe, Robert Gibson Charles Smith, Jr., Jonathan Madaras, Craig McDivett, David Phillips Brenda Walk, Glenn Pratt, Ashley Folk, Robert Ferry, Brian Kimball Brenda Miller, James Wagner, Jason David. Photo by Gary Yon ON THE COVER
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Joann Cusumano Sciulli & Rosann Cusumano Elinsky Protecting a Home from Mold .................... | 49
SPRING 2012
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Larry Jackley Tax Season is Here ~ Are You Prepared? ..... | 55
Let’s Get Physical What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
What’s Inside page 2
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
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Fit at Any Age
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Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
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page 7 © 2012 UPMC
Brightening Lives With Light A Walk to Remember
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A Lasting Legacy of Caring
FEATURES
The Great Allegheny Passage ...........................................
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Get to Know Your State Representative, Rick Saccone ..........................................................................
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Pleasant Hills Roller Hockey League ...............................
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Local Food Pantry Helps Fight Hunger ...........................
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Curb Appeal: More Than Meets the Eye ........................
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Kids Page ................................................................................
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DINING OUT
Banana Peppers ......................................................................
PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR
Marybeth Jeffries m.jeffries@icmags.com
W
elcome to the spring issue of West Jefferson Hills magazine. Hopefully, we are all enjoying the lengthening days as we forge into summer. While spring usually brings more rain to the region than we normally get throughout the rest of the year, I’m glad we’ve had a few days of nice weather to get outside and remember what the snow covered up. We’ve grown once again over the winter, and have shifted so me staff around to accommodate that growth. I want to point this out to you because you, the readers, give us many of the great story ideas that you see featured in these pages, and I want you to have the right point of contact so that your story can be heard. The editor for the East Region is Monica Haynes (m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com). Please forward your good news to Monica, and she’ll make su re it finds a place in the magazine. If you’re not sure whether you have a good story, give Monica a call at 412.254.8704 and ask! While our editors have re-aligned into better-organized zones, we still want everything in those zones to be 100 percent local to you. We also appreciate your feedback (good and bad) to let us know where we missed the mark and where we hit it out of the park. Lastly, it’s n ot too soon to start thinking about the rest of the year! I know we just got through the holidays, and are thawing out, but since we’re quarterly, we’re already looking ahead to fall and beyond. So if you have events planned and would like to promote them, call or email Monica. If you have an event coming up earlier, let us know so we can send our photographers and document the occasion! Here’s hopin g that the start to your year has been a good one!
Wayne Dollard, Publisher
REGIONAL EDITORS
Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com NORTH ZONE COORDINATOR
Pamela Palongue p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUNICIPAL CONTENT COORDINATOR
Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR
Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
WRITERS
Jonathan Barnes Ashley Connor Heather Holtschlag Kelly Lotter Leigh Lyons
Dana McGrath Joann Naser Gina Salinger Judith Schardt
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Welcome, spring! While June may not be busting out all over yet, hope springs eternal for warmer weather, blooming flowers, and more occasions to walk in the sunshine, and more opportunities to get out and meet your fellow residents and neighbors. Speaking of meeting your neighbors, in this edition of West Jefferson Hills, we feature the Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association, which last year celebrated 35 years of service to the community. This year, as part of that service, the ambulance service will hold a seminar in the Community Room at Jefferson Hills Borough Building on Wednesday, May 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. Entitled What to Do Before the Ambulance Arrives, the program will be taught by the Jefferson Hills paramedics and will focus on different medical situations and how to handle them before the EMTs get there. We also have news about all the great things that have been going on in the West Jefferson Hills School District, and news about what’s been happening in the borough. This edition of West Jefferson Hills also includes a story on the Great Allegheny Passage. Remember, this is your magazine. It’s about what’s happening in your community. So let us know what you want to read about, what’s going on, and what’s important to you. For now, it’s time to think spring, and time to enjoy this edition of West Jefferson Hills Magazine! Monica L. Haynes, Editor 2
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Jessica DeLuca Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer
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ADVERTISING SALES
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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 2012. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Rd. McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www. incommunitymagazines.com
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West Jefferson Hills
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
SCHOOL DISTRICT
INSIDE West Jefferson Hills School District Message from THE SUPERINTENDENT Dear Residents of the West Jefferson Hills School District,
“There are infinite possibilities born of faith in others and yourself”
Spring is officially drawing closer and what a wonderful time to pause and reflect on this school year. For me the common underlying theme has been collaboration. An excellent illustration is the recent selection of the district logo by our students, staff, parents and community members. Our students continue to excel as we determinedly st rive to blend updated technology with diverse learning needs in the classroom. For the 2012-2013 school year, Thomas Jefferson High School will introduce several new courses; Physics, Journalism and Computer Aided Manufacturing and Industrial Technology. The academic faculty will continue to review our current academic courses offered and initiate proposals for updated curriculum to meet the ever chan ging needs of our global society. My faculty has also been collaborating with District Administration on a district-wide initiative focusing on reviewing and revising our curriculum. We are also proud to have faculty who promote students to further explore the wonderful world of science, engineering, technology and math such as Mrs. Jennifer Cramer at Pleasant Hills Middle School. The middle school st udents are working on a project to help the environment within the community, specifically about managing invasive (alien) species along Peters Creek. I hope all of you had the opportunity to vote for the additional $30,000 Community Choice Award. Our talented high school theater students perform in the musical “Willy Wonka.” Musical programs in our schools continue to play an integral role in devel oping data driven academic success. Our high school juniors have partnered with the community and local businesses as they showcased their Graduation Projects - a requirement for graduation. To our graduating seniors it will be hard to wish you adieu, but I am confident that our schools have prepared you for continued academic achievement and future success. The March information meeting with parents and the community offered relevant conversation on enrollment and how it will strategically affect our educational needs in the years to come. The eventual goal is to provide optimal learning environments at all of our schools. I encourage your comments and questions, which can be emailed to enrollmentinfo@wjhsd.net until March 15, 2012. The Administration’s presentation is currently posted on our District website, wjhsd.net. “The Ides of March” usher in the Pennsylvania State System of Assessment (PSSA).The District schools achieve AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) based on the PSSA results. I encourage all parents to ensure that students get adequate rest before taking their PSSA exams. Spring is also a significant time for the District, as we prepare the 2012-2013 Annual District Budget. Fiscal responsibility is accomplished within our business office headed by our new Director of Finance, Mrs. Tracy Harris, who has been efficiently collaborating with our administration towards the goal of a balanced budget for the next school year. To borrow from a quote “There are infinite possibilities born of faith in others and yourself” - I thank you for your continued collaboration and support of the West Jefferson Hills School District. Sincerely, Hamsini Rajgopal Acting Superintendent West Jefferson Hills School District West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Tracy Harris joined the West Jefferson Hills School District in January 2012 as the Director of Finance. Mrs. Harris earned a B.S. in Accounting from West Virginia University. Prior to joining the West Jefferson Hills School District, Mrs. Harris worked for six years as an auditor for the firm of Hosack, Specht, Muetzel and Wood of Mt. Lebanon. Mrs. Harris’ responsibility was to audit financial records, procedures and internal controls of Municipalities and School Districts which included the West Jefferson Hills School District. In 2004, Mrs. Harris began her career in the school
system as Supervisor of Accounting for the South Allegheny School District and then became the Business Manager in the California Area School District and the Frazier School District. Mrs. Harris is a member of the Association of School Business Officials International and the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials. At the local level, she is a member of the Southwest School Business Officials serving for three years as Treasurer and two years as President. Mrs. Harris, her husband Ken and son Matthew reside in Jefferson Hills.
The Superintendent will provide autonomy to principals to lead their school but expects alignment on district goals and use of resources for fostering and carrying out district achievement and instructional goals. The goals listed below reflect changes necessary to enhance student achievement rather than goals intended to maintain the status quo. West Jefferson Hills School District Mission Statement Students are the primary focus of the West Jefferson Hills School District where, in partnership with families and community, the mission is to educate and prepare all students to become active, contributing members of society by providing a challenging, innovative educational program guided by an exceptional staff in a safe, positive, caring environment, all of which promote excellence. 1. Create an optimal learning environment at all three elementary schools. 2. Develop a plan to facilitate the design, delivery and alignment of curriculum and instruction. 3. Investigate a formal anti-bullying program to be rolled out in the 2012-2013 School Year.
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The West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for Education advocates the District’s quest for continued academic excellence. The Foundation is served by a Board of volunteers comprised of members of the community, TJ Alumni, administrators and members of the Board of School Directors. The Foundation Board appreciates the critical role of public education in the growth and vitality of our school district community and recognizes our Graduates, who have, over the years, pursued notable professions and personal success. The Foundation generates funding through Alumni donations, the Commemorative Brick Sale and Memorials. The financial objective of the Foundation is to raise additional funding which will be used to supplement the fiscal needs of students in the West Jefferson Hills School District and to fund the “Enrichment “PAWsibilty Classroom Grants.”
If you would like further information on the West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for Education please call: Hamsini Rajgopal, Acting Superintendent, West Jefferson Hills School District at 412.655.8450. Board Members Serving the West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for Education: Marianne Neel, School Director Shauna D’Alessandro, School Director Carolyn Bourgeois, School Director Tom Cocran, Jefferson Hills Carlene Garrity, Pleasant Hills Dave LaFrankie, Pleasant Hills Louise Biddle, West Elizabeth
The West Jefferson Hills School District is pleased to unveil the new District Logo. A heartfelt thank you to Kirk Salopek, Thomas Jefferson High School Graduates, Tori Miller, Garett Lynch, and Senior Dylan Devine for dedicating their time and talent to this District wide project. The students developed three remarkable Logo’s to represent the District. The newly designed Logo, which was chosen by the school district community casting votes for their favorite, will be used on all District correspondence, including our letterhead and business cards. Kudos to Mr. Salopek, Tori, Garett and Dylan for their amazing designs and remarkable talents.
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
The following Thomas Jefferson High School students have been selected to participate in the Allegheny Intermediate Units’ (A.I.U.) year- long Apprenticeship Program. The Program, founded in 1978, began with one apprentice choice and 25 students. Selected students are afforded the opportunity to meet and work with professionals who share with the students their professional experience, expertise, and enthusiasm. For the current school year, the A.I.U.’s Apprenticeship Program received more than 800 applications from students representing more than 63 local schools districts. The students’ application and faculty recommendation were the basis for the selection of the more than 725 current student participants. Congratulations to the following Thomas Jefferson High School students who have been selected for this worthwhile, professional, hands- on instruction: Senior, Julia Ejzak and Junior Josh Dalton will participate in the Engineering Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers. Students will gain an understanding of the similarities and differences of the many areas of engineering. They will also have the on -site opportunity to meet with professional engineers. Juniors Brianna Bowman and Gabrielle Gentilcore will participate in the Advertising/ Public Relations Program. This interactive program will be offered 8
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through Point Park University. Students will be introduced to careers in both advertising and public relations. Discussion will include the history of advertising, current practices and an analysis of successful and unsuccessful public relations cases. Students will also have the opportunity to design an advertising / public relations campaign for a “client of their choosing.” Senior Elizabeth Lowman will participate in the Conducting Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Symphony. Students will have the opportunity to observe the role of the Conductor, while attending rehearsals of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall. They will also participate in a series of Musical Conductor Illustrations. Junior Carly Nolan, will participate in the Zoo Animal Care Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. Students will gain an understanding of the behavioral characteristics and veterinary needs of zoo animals as well as the skill sets required for animal care. Senior Shannon Shaffer will participate in the Associate Artist Program. This interactive program will be offered through Various Artists’ Local Studios. Students will explore the challenges and rewards of a career in the visual arts. Students will have the opportunity to meet with local professional artists whose careers include Visual Arts, Fine Arts, Arts Education, Production, Graphic Arts and Commercial and Industrial Design.
Bob Holmes, “The Amazing One Man Volleyball Team,” made “TJ History.” Mr. Holmes, who has posted the most wins for a single athlete, recently visited Thomas Jefferson High School. He gregariously performed his amazing volleyball skills, playing against the Boys’ Varsity Volleyball Team, The Girls’ Varsity Volleyball Team and the TJ Faculty Volleyball Team. Though some points were scored, Mr. Holmes captured the victory after each game. However, his message for our students was more powerful than his serve. He encouraged our children to “make the right choices, to think before they act, to always be compassionate for and considerate of each other.”
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Recognizing the significance of “Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle,” the Thomas Jefferson High School Prom Committee and The Future is Mine Club teamed together to sponsor the First “Impress 4 Less” sale of gently used prom apparel and accessories. The students collaborated their efforts, seeking apparel donations from Alumni, family and community residents. The students successfully collected more than 200 formal and semi-formal dresses, numerous shoes, handbags and jewelry. The “Impress 4 Less” sale event took place at Thomas Jefferson High School and those in attendance had the opportunity to model beautiful apparel on the fashionable runway. Kudos to the student leaders on the Prom Committee and The Future is Mine, Michele Stoicovy and Gwenna Cokley, for utilizing their dedication and talents to “Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle,” and to offer glamorous fashions at fabulous prices.
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mentors Making a Positive Impact
The Thomas Jefferson High School Student Council sponsored the Third Annual Dancing with the Athletes. The selected dance routines the students performed highlighted the grace of our trained young dancers and the agility and talent of our young athletes. The audience had the opportunity to “Vote for Their Favorite Dancing Couple” with monetary donations, which were collected to benefit each of the couple’s chosen Charity. Kudos to the following Thomas Jefferson High School Dancing Couples who thrilled us with their talent and touched our hearts with their generosity: Dancers ~ Leah Rowan and Chad Lehigh Dance Routine ~ “Broadway We Go Together” Charity ~ Children’s Hospital Foundation ~ Bone Marrow Transplant Dancers ~ Ali Dalton and Nick Franczak Dance Routine ~ Tap ~”Only The Good Die Young” Charity ~ Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Dancers ~ Beth Urbaniak and Tony Piccioni Dance Routine ~ Ballet ~ “Moves Like Jaguar” Charity ~ Eli Manning Children’s Clinic Dancers ~ Becky Stem and Dom Presto Dance Routine ~ Disco ~ “Hot Stuff” Charity ~ Four Diamonds Fund Dancers ~ Maddy Miscavage and Sam Green Dance Routine ~ Traditional African Tribal ~ “Circle of Life” 10
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Charity ~ Invisible Children Dancers ~ JoAnna Clark and Josh Ambrose Dance Routine ~ Cha-Cha “Sexy and I Know It” Charity ~ Breast Cancer Research Dancers ~ Alex Miller and Peter Schoemer Dance Routine ~ Swing ~ “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” Charity ~ Dizzy Feet Dancers ~ Sydney Stromberg and Josh Kuzman Dance Routine ~ Tango ~ “Sexy Back” Charity ~ Toys for Tots Dancers ~ Erin Gramm and Stephen Shelpman Dance Routine ~ Baton “Jingle Bell Rock” Charity ~ Eat n’ Park’s Caring for Kids Dancers ~ Shoueb Mamoor and Amanda Brennan Dance Routine ~ Hip Hop ~ “Get Outta Your Mind” Charity ~ American Red Cross Congratulations to couples Ali Dalton and Nick Franczak and Alex Miller and Peter Schoemer, selected by the Panel of Judges, in a tied decision, to be awarded the “Golden Character Shoes.” More than $1,000 was donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Dizzy Feet. Congratulations are also extended to Maddy Miscavage and Sam Green for winning the “Fan Favorite.” More than $1,300 was collected for “Invisible Children”
The high school and middle school administration, faculty, guidance counselors, and staff developed and coordinated the “Move Up Day /TJ Mentoring Program” for students to ease the transition from middle school to high school. The “Move Up Day Mentoring Program” is the result of a process, which began with student surveys, included the Mentors visiting the students at Pleasant Hills Middle School and the students spending an entire day at Thomas Jefferson High School. According to the Mentoring Partnership of Western Pennsylvania, “qualities of a successful mentor include personal com mitment, respect for individuals, an ability to listen and accept differing points of view, an ability to see solutions and opportunities, and flexibility and openness.” The Thomas Jefferson High School “Senior Mentors” are members of the National Honor Society, who “exhibit exceptional academic performance and demonstrate a willingness to serve.” The Mentors, defined as a “friend, supporter, listener a nd resource” also encourage their Freshman Friends to contact them with any questions, comments or concerns. The positive results of the “Mentoring Program” were evident at a recent Breakfast Mentoring Event. The teams of mentors and mentees enjoyed the morning meal and were afforded the opportunity to greet TJ Alumni Stephen Fancsali and Aaron Archibald. Stephen and Aaron addressed the students, recalling their memories of TJ, their career journeys and their professional experience and expertise. The TJ Mentoring Program promotes school spirit, attendance and successful academic performance Kudos to the following Administrators, Faculty, Staff, and Guidance Counselors for developing, coordinating, and instituting The Move Up Day / Mentoring Program: Daniel Como, Principal, Pleasant Hills Middl e School Barbara Yogan, Teacher, Pleasant Hills Middle School Katie O’Keefe, Teacher, Pleasant Hills Middle School Jaclyn DePaul, Teacher, Thomas Jefferson High School Keith Hartbauer, Vice Principal, Thomas Jefferson High School Lauren Geary, Teacher, NHS Moderator, Thomas Jefferson High School Amy Wroblewski, Teacher, Thomas Jefferson High School And Colleen Triffanoff, Guidance Counselor, Thomas Jeffe rson High School
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TECHNICAL TALENTS The following Thomas Jefferson High School students have been selected to receive the Top of The Shop Award for their accomplishments at Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School. The recipients of the Top of The Shop Award were nominated by their instructors, and have been selected as the top student in overall performance. This award is presented each semester to students who demonstrate proficiency in their course work, consistent attendance, professionalism, and commendable behavior. Congratulations to: Joshua Anderson ~ Area of Technical Study ~ Protective Services Ian Baxendell ~ Area of Technical Study ~ Automotive Mechanics James Reynolds ~ Area of Technical Study ~ Building Trades Darren Sandstorm ~ Area of Technical Study ~ Electronics Michael Szemanski ~ Area of Technical Study ~ Advertising and Design
Steel Center AVTS has a new director, Mr. Kevin E. Rice. Mr. Rice started his new leadership role on January 3, 2012 succeeding Mr. John Sandrene who served as the school’s director for sixteen years. Mr. Rice joins the Steel Center staff after spending the past four years as assistant director and, three years prior, as principal at Central Westmoreland Career & Technology Center in New Stanton, Pennsylvania. Prior to his work as an administrator in Career & Technical Education, Mr. Rice was an educator in the Washington School District in Washington, PA and the Western Area Career & Technology Center in Canonsburg, PA. In addition to his work experience, Mr. Rice has served as a school board director for the Bentworth School District in Washington county and various leadership roles within the Pennsylvania School Boards Association. He resides in Scenery Hill, Pennsylvania with his wife Cheryl and their children Cody, Caroline, and Cameron. His journey in Career & Technical Education began as a high school student. While attending Charleroi high school, Mr. Rice studied Drafting & Design at the Mon Valley Career & Technology Center in Charleroi, PA (Washington county). He then furthered his education at California University of Pennsylvania earning Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees as well as Principal certification; at the Pennsylvania State University earning a certificate in vocational administration, and at Edinboro University earning a second Master’s degree and Superintendent Letter of Eligibility. Mr. Rice reflects on his own career path as evidence that students who pursue CTE studies in high school can and do go to college despite what many believe. He feels that meaningful CTE studies coupled with a rigorous core curriculum provides the best opportunity for students to succeed beyond high school. When asked about plans for the future of Steel Center, he recently shared these thoughts, “we will build upon the school’s rich history as we join in the reform efforts that are taking place in Pennsylvania and across the country; efforts that will invigorate high school career & technical education while helping to rebuild our economy.” West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Congratulations to Pleasant Hills Middle School Science teacher Jen Cramer for being awarded state -of the -art technology equipment totaling $70,000 for demonstrating “how STEM can help the environment in your community.” The “Solve for Tomorrow” award was presented for a video created by Pleasant Hills Middle School students and faculty on their theory of how they would use science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to eliminate invasive Japanese knotweed from Peters Creek. The produced video was then entered in the Samsung's 'Solve for Tomorrow' Competition. More than 1,500 national entries were received and the video produced by our talented young science entrepreneurs’ Adam Briggs, Andrew Oriss, Spencer Gentille, Cole Lutz, Chelsea Klingman, Emily Bond, and Trevor Trunzo, was selected as 1 of the 12 National Finalists. Additional state- of -the art technology equipment, totaling $30,000 will be awarded to the competing school districts based on the online votes each video receives. The additional $30,000 Community Choice Award will be announced in March.
The seventh grade students at Pleasant Hills Middle School had the opportunity to discover the unknown causative agent in the infectious disease Outbreak!. Our young scientists were afforded this incredible hands-on experience aboard the University of Pittsburgh Mobile Lab. According to the University of Pittsburgh, “the Mobile Lab is a self-contained, traveling laboratory that allows students to use current, high-end equipment to perform laboratory investigations and the discovery of how scie nce impacts your day-to-day life.” The Mobile Lab is sponsored by the University Of Pittsburgh Department Of Biological Sciences, whose department offers students high-quality science experiment programs designed to introduce graduate and advanced undergraduate biology. The middle school students participated in Outbreak!, which is an exercise in critical analysis and inquirybased thinking utilizing the concept of infectious disease to allow students to analyze data, formulate relevant questions, and test/revise hypotheses. In the Outbreak! scenario, there has been a possible outbreak of an infectious disease with an unknown causative agent. It is not known if the “disease” is contagious or due to environmental factors. Acting as agents representing the Center for Disease Control, the students analyze existing facts and data proceeding to hypothesis, hypothesis-testing, and diagnosis utilizing current science and technology,” according to the University of Pittsburgh Mobile Lab staff. Kudos to Pleasant Hills Middle School Science teacher Jen Cramer for encouraging our future scientists to “lead the charge” in discovering life saving treatments. 12
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On Wednesday afternoons, the corridors at Pleasant Hills Middle School are abuzz with activity long after the dismissal bell has rung. The middle school students in grades six, seven, and eight, who participate in the after-school Interest Groups, were presented an array of activities and interests from which they could choose. The following contains a brief description of the 2011-2012 Pleasant Hills Middle School Interest Groups as well as the faculty sponsor: • Scrapbooking – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Clark is ideal for students who enjoy developing their personal Scrapbook. The students’ Scrapbooks depict their memories with personal messages and colorful photographs. • “Open Book” Club – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Watson, is ideal for students wishing to read new books and make new friends. Six selected books will be read and discussed including War Horse. This book, which was currently produced as a movie, opened in December, and the students in Book Club will have the opportunity to see the film and compare the book with the movie. All of the six books the students are to read, will be included in their twenty-five book challenge. • Select Chorus – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Lucci the students in grades 7 and 8 who auditioned for Select Chorus will perform in the Holiday and Spring Concerts. • Table Top Sports League – Faculty Sponsor – Mr. Hrvatin, is ideal for students who want to play and learn America’s Classic Table Top Games. Playing through three seasons, the students will develop League rules, teams, and Championships for Paper Football, Table Hockey and Table Basketball. • History Through Movies – Faculty Sponsor – Mr. Zunic, is ideal for students who want to examine various historical accuracy of films. After viewing the films, a detailed analysis of the films historical event will be provided. • Board Games – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Prah, is ideal for students who wish to draw conclusions, evaluate information, cooperate in groups and strategically think, while playing popular board games such as Monopoly, Scattergories and Jenga. • Extreme Intramurals – Faculty Sponsor – Mr. Shosky, is ideal for students who want to participate in healthy activities and extreme sports such as Flag Football, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee, and Kick-Ball. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in skill challenges, which will showcase their talents in specific sports. • The Scrabble Rabble – Faculty Sponsor – Chad Smith, is ideal for students who wish to compete in a variety of word games such as Scrabble, Boggle and Balderdash. • Paper Capers – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs.Miller, is ideal for students who enjoy crafting. Students will have the opportunity to create various seasonal and holiday crafts. • PHMS TV Studio – Faculty Sponsor – Mr. Benedek is ideal for the student Broadcasters and Technical Crew to prepare for their “Daily Show” on PHMS TV. Students will work together to construct clips, edit video and brainstorm for innovative ideas to broadcast on the PHMS TV News • Fruit Fun – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Zanetti, is ideal for students who love a crossword challenge. Using letter tiles to create words in a crossword fashion, the winner of each hand is required to use all of the letter tiles to “split, peel, and go Bananas or Apples to Apples, connecting nouns and adjectives.” • Jazz Band – Faculty Sponsor – Mr. Stewart, is for students who are members of the Jazz Band, to prepare for concerts and upcoming auditions. • “May I Be of Service” – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Lee, is ideal for students who are interested in community service. The students will explore various community services and work with those services to create personalized projects. The students have made beautiful blankets for residents at a local health facility and will complete projects for Veteran’s, Children’s Hospital and patients receiving treatment for cancer. • Aftermath – Faculty Sponsor – Mrs. Mitko, is ideal for students interested in math peer tutoring. Open to students in grades 6,7, and 8, students who excel at math are partnered with their fellow classmates seeking after school math tutoring. West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
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WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
West Jefferson Hills School District Compassion, character, and humanity exemplify the students, parents, administration, faculty, and staff in the West Jefferson Hills School District. Through their generosity and commitment they have supported various national and international foundations and associations, which dedicate themselves to education, aiding children, medical research, and community outreach. Thus far this year, the West Jefferson Hills School District community has participated in and contributed to the following associations:
Kudos to the Pleasant Hills Middle School students, administration, faculty, and staff for once again sponsoring the Annual Food Drive to benefit our local Food Bank. As we continue to hear of the increasing numbers of families depending on the local food banks, the generosity of our students, parents, and community residents is extraordinary. The middle school students once again filled the U-Haul to capacity with donated non-perishable food items. The middle school students also accompanied the faculty with delivering, unloading, and stocking the donated items. Kudos to the students, administration, faculty and staff for raising more than $400 during the Annual Students versus Staff Volleyball Game, recently held at Pleasant Hills Middle School. The donated funds will benefit the Olivette Church Food Bank.
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Kudos to the McClellan Elementary students, administration, faculty, and staff for their generous donations to Operation Troop Appreciation. This Community Service Project, organized by the McClellan Elementary fifth grade students, collected various supplies and non-perishable items, which were delivered and donated to our Armed Services serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
Community Service Projects The first grade students at Jefferson Elementary who arrived at school for the “Pajama Party” in their pajamas may have turned heads, but it was all for a worthy cause. The students donated new pajamas to support the Pajama Project, which collects donated pajamas to children facing various life challenges. Scholastic Books also graciously donated a new book for each child receiving new PJs. Kudos to our remarkable first grade students, whose generosity demonstrated their wisdom of the significance of the “gift of giving.”
The students, faculty, PTA, and staff at Jefferson Elementary sponsored a Food Drive to benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. A heartfelt thank you to the administration, faculty, staff, parents and students who generously donated non perishable food items to this notable community organization.
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
g n i r a ssage o S A Me The Gill Hall Elementary PTA sponsored a “soaring” anti -drug, anti- alcohol, ant-bullying Program. With platforms assembled, ramps constructed, and musical accompaniment, the BMX Pros, “Action Sports Team” soared through the gymnasium, flipping airborne and flying up and down the platforms with expert precision. The focused message of the Assembly, “the three R’s; Recognize: know what bullying is, Refuse: stand up confidently, React: do something about it.” Their “do not do drugs or drink alcohol message” was reaffirmed by the performing athletes, Brian Cunningham, Lonnie Parton and John Saxton. They shared with the students the level of commitment and the countless hours involved in their training and conditioning and how drugs and alcohol would interfere with their training, their performance and their safety. A heartfelt thanks to the Gill Hall Elementary PTA for presenting the students this life- long, valuable message and for the awesome BMX “Dialed Action Sports Team Assembly.”
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West Jefferson Hills
The Gill Hall Elementary PTA sponsored a “Family Fun Night” featuring The Polar Express, popcorn, slippers, hot chocolate, cuddly blankets and favorite teddy bears. This memorable family event provided those in attendance a wonderful, family focused evening, their own keepsake, personal “bell,” and delectable treats.
• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
Family Fun Book Fair The students at Gill Hall Elementary had the opportunity to “Bean Bag the Tropical Fish,” bowl, have their face painted, or paint an original work of art. All of these family, fun-filled activities could be found at the “Family Fun Book Fair” sponsored by the Gill Hall Elementary PTA. This annual family event, which promotes Reading, offered the students and their families the opportunity to purchase delectable desserts, lunch time meals and numerous books for family reading time and personal enjoyment. The Gill Hall Elementary PTA also promotes community service with this family event, collecting monetary donations for “Scholastic Books 1 For Books,” which matches the total collected to purchase and distribute books to those less fortunate. Kudos to the Gill Hall Elementary PTA for combining this family focused event with a love for reading and community service.
The inflated “silver dome” most certainly appeared out of place in the Gill Hall Elementary gymnasium. Students entering the silver spectacle first traveled through a narrow tunnel to reach their destination. Once inside, they began their journey to far off planets, including Saturn and Pluto, passing through Constellations, shooting stars, the moon, and a spiraling planet earth. Kudos to the Gill Hall Elementary PTA for sponsoring the “Mobile Planetarium Assembly.”
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Read-A-Thon
The “Readers Café,” was open on a recent Friday evening at Jefferson Elementary. Though most attending may have expected a frothy latte’ this Café served something much more delightful. For students in Kelly Landers 2nd grade class, the Café provided the perfect setting for families and friends to “encourage and promote reading through a family literacy program.” The “Jaguar Read- a Thon,” which highlighted the Author of the Month, Eric Carle, also launched the students “Adopt a Jaguar Campaign” through the World Wildlife Fund. Students were presented an official adoption certificate and a plush toy jaguar as a thank you for their monetary donations supporting the conservation of the jaguar’s national habitat, the Amazon Rainforest.
Wildlife Animal Encounters The students at McClellan Elementary recently experienced a “Wild Encounter.” During their assembly, “Wildlife Encounters,” sponsored by the McClellan Elementary PTA, the students “Encountered” alligators, lizards, exotic animals and a very large python. Fifth grade teacher Celeste Farison, bravely had the python coiled around her like an exotic wrap. This “up close, hands-on” assembly afforded our students the opportunity to gently touch, see understand and appreciate animals from habitats all over the world.
West Jefferson Hills
Jumping For Their Heart’s Health
• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
“Jumping for their heart” was embraced by the students at Jefferson Elementary. This “Annual Jump for Hearts” fund raising activity, sponsored by the American Heart Association, was coordinated by the Jefferson Elementa ry PTA. This life –long, heart healthy, learning event encourages our students to take care of their health and their heart through fun physical activity. Kudos to the Jefferson Elementary students, parents, PTA, faculty and staff who raised more than $3,500 to benefit the American Heart Association.
B I N
G O!
BINGO was much more than a game of luck for Jefferson Elementary students and parents. The Annual Family Fun BINGO Night sponsored by the Jefferson Elementary PTA proved to be a huge success. The entire gymnasium, which was jam-packed, was abuzz with activity as families gathered, patiently listening to the call of the letters and corresponding digits, carefully marking their numerous BINGO cards with the synchronized number. Those in attendance also had the chance to win one of the beautifully decorated gift baskets, which were contributed and designed by each individual classroom. The Auction Baskets donated from each class had a basket for everyone, the classroom themes included, kitchen gadgets, spa delights, cheese, chocolate, pets, movies, coffee, books and games. Proceeds from the BINGO and the Chinese Auction fund the numerous educational programs and classroom activities sponsored by the PTA. Kudos to the Jefferson Elementary PTA for sponsoring this enjoyable, fun- filled family event.
Bravo to the McClellan Elementary students, parents, Ms. Marie Bartoletti, faculty, and staff, for enthusiastically sponsoring their Fifteenth Annual “Jump Rope for Heart,” and “Hoop for Heart” Program. More than 130 elementary students participated in this fund raising heart- healthy event. The students, who collected monetary pledges from family and friends during a weeklong pledge drive, “jumped and hooped” to raise more than $5,000. A touching honor to the students’ successful efforts were the numerous memorial paper hearts and posters bearing the names of family members lining the gymnasium’s walls. What a tribute to the students and parents at McClellan Elementary who support this hearthealthy, lifelong learning event. Through their noble accomplishment, the students, faculty, staff, and parents at McClellan Elementary have, to date, raised more than $139,229 for the American Heart Association in their ongoing mission to combat heart disease and strokes. West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Thomas Jefferson High School Jaguars
Bill Cherpak, Athletic Director
In recognition of our Thomas Jefferson High School student Varsity Athletes whose talent, team discipline, team spirit, dedication, and athletic ability contributed to the successful Winter Sports Season. Each of you impressively demonstrated “Jaguar Pride” both in victory and defeat. We are proud of you and your athletic accomplishments. The 2011-2012 Thomas Jefferson High School Winter Varsity Athletic Team Record and Student Athlete Recognition:
Section 4 AAA
Becca Tarczy Qualified for WPIAL Diving Championship Sam Etzi Qualified for WPIAL Diving Championship
West Jefferson Hills
Lia Meden TSTCA Championship Distance Medley Relay Natalie Liebold TSTCA Championship Distance Medley Relay
Placed Second in Section V AAA Competed in the WPIAL Semi Finals Tournament Joe Shaffer First Team All Section Joe Carrol Second Team All Section Zach Schademan Third Team All Section
Alyssa Arnold TSTCA Championship Distance Medley Relay
Brianna Bowman TSTCA Championship 4x200 M Relay
Jorge Eber
Alanna Stosic TSTCA Championship 4x200 M Relay
Distance Medley Relay
Placed Second in Section Qualified for the WPIAL Section V AA Championships
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TSTCA Championship Paris Davis Distance Medley Relay TSTCA Championship Placed Eighth High Jump Severin Scott Distance Medley Relay TSTCA Championship Placed Tenth 300 M Run Matt Bourgeois Distance Medley Relay TSTCA Championship
Marie Miller TSTCA Championship Distance Medley Relay Melissa Wagner TSTCA Championship 4x200 M Relay
Natalie Liebold TSTCA Championship 4x200 M Relay Renee Miller TSTCA Championship 4x200 M Relay Qualified for Triple Jump
Class AAA *Season On -Going Nine Wrestlers have Advanced to the WPIAL Individual Championships
PIHL Section I Class A *Season On Going
*For those Varsity Teams whose Season Records are not complete at this time, Team and Student Athletic Accomplishments will be included in the Spring Edition of the District Newsletter.
By Pamela Palongue Photos by Gary Yon
As the days get longer and temperatures get a little warmer, spring entices us all out to the great outdoors for a little exercise and fresh air. Nature seems to spring back to life as the plants and flowers pop up... Continued on next page West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
...and birds return from the south, chirping and busily building their nests. Even if you live in an apartment building or in the middle of a housing plan, you can experience nature without ever having to leave the area. The Great Allegheny Passage is approximately 150 miles in length and runs from Cumberland, MD, to Pittsburgh passing through our area with trail heads in Jefferson Hills and nearby Clairton. The Montour Trail and the Steel Valley Trail, which are part of the Great Allegheny Passage, intersect in Clairton. The almostlevel path with a smooth surface is excellent for walking, running, hiking and biking. According to the Mayo Clinic, walking is one of the best exercises overall because it is low impact. It can lower bad cholesterol, raise good cholesterol, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and is a mood improver. Walking requires very little special equipment other than good walking shoes and can be done with a group or as a solitary activity and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. For runners and cyclists wishing to cover long distances, the trails provide a long, uninterrupted path for a lengthy ride and cyclists are allowed to travel at speeds up to 15 mph. Biking also offers a lowimpact exercise that’s gentle to joints and tightens and tones the legs and hips while burning lots of calories. An excellent activity for families, biking is the second most popular outdoor activity in the U.S. according to PeopleForBikes.org. The Montour and Steel Valley trails are an excellent place to walk, run and bike for health, but more than just an exercise venue, the trail is a great place for kids to experience nature and is a popular spot for bird watchers. Orioles, bobolinks, meadowlarks, thrushes, wrens and blackbirds may be seen on the trail in their natural habitat, especially in the spring and summer. The trail is open from dawn until dusk, which in the warmer months can be as late as 9 p.m. For more information on the Great Allegheny Passage, please visit the website at www.atatrail.org. For directions on access to the trail, visit the Jefferson Hills Borough website at http://jeffersonhillsboro.org/ and click on “Living Here” and then choose Great Allegheny Passage. 22
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SPRING 2012
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Let’s Get Physical What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
© 2012 UPMC
What’s Inside page 2
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
page 3
Fit at Any Age
page 4
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
page 5
Brightening Lives With Light
page 6
A Walk to Remember
page 7
A Lasting Legacy of Caring
Need Quick, Convenient Care?
Head to UPMC Mercy’s South SideWalk-in Clinic Open days, evenings, and weekends, it’s the solution of choice for busy patients As a single, working mother of two, Joanne Krapp feels fortunate to have the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic available close by. She doesn’t have a car, but the clinic is just a 10-minute bus ride from her Carrick home. “It’s so convenient. You don’t need an appointment, and you’re in and out in no time,” says Joanne. “They treat you like you’re the first patient of the day, no matter what time you go.” Joanne first went to the clinic two years ago when she woke up with a burning rash all over her body. Diagnosed with multiple skin allergies — including sensitivity to various metals — she now takes precautions but periodically experiences allergic reactions. She’s been to the clinic for treatment about a half dozen times in two years.
A board-certified physician is on site at all times, along with nurses and other highly trained staff. Patients of all ages are accepted at the clinic, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free and plentiful.
A neighbor you can count on Kelly Sassaman, administrator of UPMC Mercy’s South Side Outpatient Center, says the clinic provides x-rays, sutures, blood work and screening, physical exams, and vaccinations, plus immediate care for such conditions as: • Colds and flu • Sore throats and earaches • Minor cuts and scrapes • Minor broken bones • Sprains and strains The clinic also serves as a primary care provider. Staff can refer patients to specialists, and they can provide a fast track to emergency services at UPMC Mercy, a Level 1 trauma center, she adds.
“I’m often treated by the same people when I go there. For someone like me who has a fear of hospitals, that’s important because it makes me feel very comfortable,” she says.
“We’re not an emergency room, but we handle many conditions,” explains Ms. Sassaman. “We’re meeting the needs of the community. Our neighbors don’t have to cross the river, deal with traffic or parking, or wait in an emergency room for treatment of minor injuries or illness. We can do that here.”
The Walk-in Clinic, located on the second floor of the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center at 2000 Mary St., is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
Joanne hopes she won’t have to return for treatment anytime soon. “But, if I do, I know I’ll be in good hands,” she says.
Quality care in a comfortable setting
Pain Management and More In addition to the Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services. The convenient, one-stop location also provides everyday care ranging from EKGs and laboratory work to same-day surgery, as well as pain management services. At the center’s Pain Clinic, specialists work with patients to diagnose the source of chronic pain, and then reduce it using interventional treatments. Specially trained surgeons perform procedures, including injections and radiofrequency ablation.
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“We provide excellent care, and it’s so convenient for our patients. Most people are treated within a half hour,” says Jacqueline Belton, director of the Pain Clinic. The Pain Clinic, located on the ground floor of the outpatient center, is open weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. To learn more about the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center and all the services available, visit UPMC.com and click on Hospitals and Facilities.
Fit atAnyAge Comedian George Burns — who lived to be 100 — often advised his audience to “Look to the future, because that’s where you’ll spend the rest of your life.” Vonda Wright, MD — a practicing orthopaedic surgeon at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine and a nationally recognized author of several books on active aging and fitness — thinks that’s sound advice. “Nothing is more natural than aging,” she says. “Adults over 40 today are redefining what it means to age. They’re looking ahead — and doing what it takes to stay fit and vital. “With just 30 minutes of daily exercise, you can minimize your risk for 35 common illnesses — including high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes,” says Dr. Wright, who also directs the center’s Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA®), which focuses on maximizing the performance of both elite and recreational athletes over age 40.
Staying fit as you age “As we enter our 40s and 50s, we’re just starting to hit our stride, with the potential for many years of wonderful living ahead of us. A well-balanced exercise plan is a key to maintaining that quality of life as we grow older,” she maintains.
Many say that 50 is the new 30 as today’s mature adults enjoy more active, fitter, and healthier lives than any other generation.
“There’s no age or activity level to prevent any older adult from being active,” explains Dr. Wright. In fact, studies of 90-year-old men doing resistance training on a daily basis showed improvements in their strength and functioning.
Getting started
Starting — and sticking with — a fitness plan initially can be hard, says Dr. Wright. “The first step is to make exercise a part of your daily routine. Schedule it on your calendar, like an appointment,” she advises. “Don’t be a weekend warrior. Instead, try to maintain a moderate activity level throughout the week, and increase your exercise level gradually to reduce your chance of overuse or injury.” She tells her patients to FACE the future with a balanced, total body workout designed to achieve maximum benefits while avoiding injury:
F — Flexibility with daily stretching exercises A — Aerobic cardiovascular exercises every other day, using interval-style training Carry a load (or strength train) to build and maintain muscles in your arms, C — legs, and core (stomach, back, and abdomen) E — Equilibrium and balance through simple exercises like standing on one foot “Whenever possible, mix up activities like running, swimming, cycling, or rowing,” encourages Dr. Wright. “Cross training helps promote total fitness while reducing the chance for injury. Most of all, take that first step!” To learn more about UPMC’s PRIMA program for mature athletes, call 412-432-3651 or visit UPMC.com/SportsMedicine. You’ll find PRIMA listed under Performance in the Our Services section.
Should you see a doctor first? You’re 50 years old and a pack-a-day smoker. You also have high blood pressure, and you haven’t exercised since Ronald Reagan was president. Should you see your doctor before hitting the local gym? “Regular exercise is the best gift you can give yourself. But it’s important to use common sense when getting started,” says Lance Brunton, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC Mercy who sees patients at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. If you’re in generally good health and starting off with light to moderate physical activity, an extensive medical workup probably isn’t necessary. “But if you’ve been diagnosed with any medical condition, have been sedentary for some time, or are at risk for potential heart problems, it’s essential to talk to your doctor,” advises Dr. Brunton. “Working together, you and your doctor can create the right exercise plan based on your age, physical condition, family history, and other key factors.” If you’re over the age of 40, visit UPMC.com/Today to take the American College of Sports Medicine’s Physical Activity Readiness Self-Exam.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do If you dread the approach of spring and the arrival of allergy season, here are a few ways to reduce your sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes
What to do If you take medication to control your symptoms, start treatment early — before your seasonal allergies flare up, says BJ Ferguson, MD, director of the Division of Sino-Nasal Disorders and Allergy at UPMC, and a professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. In western Pennsylvania, tree pollen starts flying around by the end of February or in early March, when it warms up enough for trees to begin budding.
Medications to take Dr. Ferguson recommends starting with an over-thecounter (OTC) medication, preferably a non-sedating antihistamine. She cautions that some products can be sedating or even result in extreme drowsiness that can impair driving. Be sure to read the accompanying instructions or ask your pharmacist about side effects. OTC decongestants can relieve nasal congestion but should only be used on a short-term basis, Dr. Ferguson says. Decongestants can cause significant side effects, such as insomnia, agitation, heart palpitations, and a rise in blood pressure. A saline nasal wash also can help relieve congestion.
When to see a doctor “If you are getting no relief and it is impairing your quality of life, you should see a doctor about more effective alternatives and testing,” says Dr. Ferguson. • A doctor can prescribe medications that can provide effective relief from chronic congestion. • Allergy testing can determine precisely what you are or aren’t allergic to. A new sublingual immunotherapy administered under the tongue is just as effective as allergy shots, and with fewer side effects, says Dr. Ferguson. • Your doctor also can determine if your nasal blockage is caused by inflammation or nasal polyps, a deviated septum, enlarged adenoids, or an infection.
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Putting Ergonomics to Work for You At home and on the job, ergonomics can help you avoid injury and discomfort — and even increase your productivity The goal of ergonomics is to make our places of work as safe, comfortable, and efficient as possible. But let’s not limit its uses to our day jobs! According to the physical therapists at UPMC Mercy, many of the aches and pains people experience can be attributed to ergonomic issues like poor posture, excessive repetitive movement, or improper lifting techniques. They advise applying basic ergonomic principles at work, home, or play to help avoid injury and perform at your best. • Use the right equipment. Make sure the tool fits the job and your body, whether you’re sitting at a desk, vacuuming, riding a bike, or swinging a golf club. • Work at the right height for you. A too-low computer chair or a too-high kitchen counter can wreak havoc on your neck, back, and shoulders. • Avoid contact stress. Wear gloves or use tools designed to reduce pressure on soft tissue to avoid blisters and other skin damage. • Keep items within easy reach. Extend your arms out on each side. Picture an imaginary arc in front of you from left to right. Place the tools or supplies you use most often within that area. • Avoid repetitive movements and working long periods in one position. Alternate tasks and change your body position regularly. Stretch every 20 to 30 minutes. Visit UPMC.com/Today where you can find more ergonomic tips to use at work and at home.
Brightening Lives with Light Light therapy is proving to be an effective treatment for bipolar depression and other mood disorders Michele Twyman of Penn Hills always dreaded the approach of winter and the holidays. As the days shortened, she grew increasingly tired, sleepy, and depressed. All she wanted to do was crawl into bed — and stay there. “I didn’t enjoy anything — from decorating to shopping. I never felt like celebrating,” says Ms. Twyman, who has a bipolar disorder and has battled depression for more than 30 years. But last Christmas was different. For the first time in years, she decorated, shopped, and made wreaths and centerpieces. “I enjoy the holidays again. I realize now how much I missed being happy about life’s little things,” she says.
New treatment shows bright promise
People with bipolar depression are especially sensitive to changes in outdoor ambient light and the seasons, she explains. The onset of fall and winter can trigger symptoms similar to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), including fatigue, sluggishness, daytime sleepiness, carb cravings, loss of interest, and inability to experience pleasure. Individuals with bipolar depression also may have suicidal thoughts.
How and why it works
“There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy.” — Dorothy Sit, MD
Ms. Twyman credits her new outlook to an artificial light box provided by Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC) of UPMC. Every afternoon, she sits in bright light for about a half hour while reading or planning appointments and activities. It took just a few weeks to feel the effects. She now wakes up feeling more rested and relaxed. She’s also better able to care for her 95-year-old father. “There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy,” says Dorothy Sit, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, and a researcher at WPIC who is leading an ongoing study in the use of light therapy for treatment of bipolar depression. “Most patients feel better within two weeks of starting it, and continue to improve for up to eight weeks.” According to Dr. Sit, treatment is inexpensive and effective. Patients with seasonal depression require 30 to 60 minutes of daily light therapy while patients with non-seasonal depression need 45 to 60 minutes.
Light therapy replaces lost sunlight exposure and resets the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythms — important for everyone’s general health, mood, and thinking. That’s why light therapy also can help patients with jet lag, shift workers, and people with sleep disorders.
While light therapy is generally safe, patients with bipolar depression also must be on a mood stabilizer or they’ll be at risk for manic episodes, says Dr. Sit. Other possible side effects include headaches, eyestrain, irritation, agitation, and insomnia. These symptoms normally disappear following adjustments in the time and length of treatment.
Light therapy tips • Check with your doctor or mental health professional to see if light therapy is a good option for you. • Follow your doctor’s advice concerning any special precautions you need to take. • Use light therapy only with guidance from your doctor or mental health provider to minimize possible side effects and maximize benefits. Visit UPMC.com/Today for more information on bipolar depression and the light therapy study. To participate in the study, call 1-800-436-2461. For information on light boxes, visit the Center for Environmental Therapeutics website at cet.org.
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AWalk to Remember UPMC Rehabilitation Institute helps make a seemingly impossible wedding dream come true Megan Dow was an athletic, carefree 27-year-old with so much to look forward to — from her upcoming wedding to a new house and barn. But a freak ATV accident on Memorial Day 2010 changed her life in an instant, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. It took a week for Megan to realize her broken neck and back wouldn’t be a quick fix and another six months to acknowledge that her paralysis might have permanent effects. Despite the diagnosis, the Negley, Ohio, resident was determined to walk down the aisle on her wedding day 16 months later. “What means more to a girl than walking down the aisle at her wedding?” asks Megan, who became engaged just weeks before the accident.
Regaining the life she lost Initially, she couldn’t sit up without help and wore braces to support her back, neck, and legs. “I went from doing everything to not being able to brush my teeth; from being able to throw a bale of hay to not being able to pick up a gallon of milk,” Megan says. An avid outdoorswoman, Megan longed to return to her activities, including horseback riding, camping, volunteering as a 4H Club adviser, and working as an interior designer. “I absolutely loved the life I had before the accident. I had to work to bring these things back into my life,” she says.
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At the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s spinal cord injury unit at UPMC Mercy, Megan’s team of specialists put her to work four hours a day, six days a week in an intensive rehabilitation program. Luckily, she had use of her quadriceps, which allowed her to walk with the help of braces and a walker. Slowly, she relearned everyday skills like dressing herself and walking. She also learned new skills, such as transferring to a shower chair from her wheelchair, and did exercises to build her strength. Megan vowed she’d walk without the walker by that Christmas (a goal she met by Thanksgiving) and down the aisle without a cane. A few weeks before her wedding, Megan donned her gown and practiced walking in the gym with her physical therapist.
Walking happily into the future On her wedding day — Oct. 1, 2011 — Megan did walk down the aisle. Among the guests were her UPMC doctor, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. “They’re a huge part of my life and the reason I’m where I am today. They had to be there!” exclaims Megan. “I’m so grateful to everyone at the Rehabilitation Institute. They gave me the tools I needed, and they encouraged and steered me in the right direction.”
Megan and Eric Dow walked down the aisle after exchanging marriage vows on Oct. 1, 2011.
Megan and her husband Eric honeymooned in Cancún, Mexico, where they snorkeled, swam, kayaked, and even explored some ancient ruins. Today, while she still uses a wheelchair and cane, Megan is thankful she can walk up to two hours with just leg braces. She’s also driving again, riding horses, camping, and doing other activities. “It was a miracle. I’m so grateful I can still do what I used to do — I just do them differently,” Megan says. To learn more about UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its services, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute. You’ll also find a link to Megan’s story and those of other patients who’ve benefited from the institute’s specialized care.
A Lasting Legacy of Caring It was 165 years ago that a small band of Irish nuns pioneered the ministry of Catholic health care in Pittsburgh — a spirit of compassionate care that is alive today at UPMC Mercy Catholic health care has a long and rich tradition in the United States, providing care to medically underserved, diverse, and poor communities. In Pittsburgh, that tradition took shape in the work of seven Sisters of Mercy who first came from Ireland in 1843 to care for the poor and sick. In 1847, those remarkable women built the Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh, the first Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh. Today, at UPMC Mercy — the last Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh — their legacy of giving reverent, compassionate care of the highest quality to all patients is flourishing. To Sisters of Mercy, their fourth vow — caring for the poor, sick, and uneducated — is as sacred as the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. “Scripture provides the model we follow,” explains Phyllis Grasser, vice president of mission effectiveness and spiritual care at UPMC Mercy. “The healing ministry of Christ included a commitment to the poor and vulnerable.”
Securing our mission and identity When the Sisters of Mercy began seeking a partner to help secure the hospital’s future, preserving its faith-based mission of care was of vital concern. In 2008, Mercy Hospital merged with UPMC under an agreement that assured that the hospital would retain its Catholic identity and ethics. That agreement was one of the first of its kind in the United States between a Catholic hospital and a secular health system, and has since become a model for others. Partnering with UPMC also put the struggling hospital on solid financial ground and enabled it to upgrade facilities and bring in new specialized programs and advanced technologies, says Ms. Grasser. UPMC Mercy will continue to provide the best and most advanced medical care to the region’s underserved and most vulnerable populations.
“The executive team is very supportive of the mission, and they’ve encouraged us to strengthen UPMC Mercy’s Catholic tradition,” adds Ms. Grasser.
The mission in action Mercy has always been respected for the important role it has played in the lives of people throughout western Pennsylvania. For nearly 170 years, people have trusted the sisters to care for them with respect, regardless of social status or ability to pay. That has not changed, says Ms. Grasser. Since merging with UPMC, the hospital’s charity care has doubled. While some sisters remain actively involved at UPMC Mercy, the staff is comprised mainly of lay people. Although the lay staff come from a variety of religious traditions, they have a deep understanding of and commitment to the hospital’s faith-based mission. With the support and encouragement of the sisters and the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Ms. Grasser is helping to build a generation of lay leaders to carry Mercy’s mission and values into the future. To do that, she and her staff regularly host lay leadership training programs, as well as seminars for all employees that focus on the hospital’s Catholic identity. “The qualities of trust, teamwork, forgiveness, and generosity are at the core of who we are and what we do as people and as care providers,” explains Ms. Grasser. “They bind us to each other and to our patients.” “The mission, vision, and values of Mercy have not changed. Providing quality medical care with respect and reverence for all people is our responsibility — and our legacy,” says Ms. Grasser.
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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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Community Open House April 19 5 to 7 p.m.
b u s i n e s s
s p o t l i g h t
Great food, great service and a warm welcome is the mantra for the owners of Banana Peppers, a homey American and Italian eatery at 840 Gill Hall Road in Jefferson Hills, and it certainly is one they live by.
pizzas in addition to Sicilian and French Bread Pizzas and Pizza Bagels. Other specialty pizzas include Meat Lovers Combo, Chicken and Spinach, Hawaiian, and Buffalo Chicken, among others.
“We’re like the hometown restaurant,” said Joseph Bacik, who owns the restaurant with his parents, Karen and Joseph and brother, Christopher. “The people that come in here, we k now their names.” The Bacik family purchased the restaurant in August from the previous owner. Joseph Bacik, the son, had worked as a sales engineer in Phoenix, and moved back home to part of the business. While the recipes and menu have remained the same, the new owners did update the dining room, and have plans to redo the outside, as well.
Banana Peppers is not just for a place for pizzas. It has an extensive menu that includes traditional hoagies, specialty hoagies, salads, and Antipasto Gone Bananas, and pasta with your choice of marinara, meat, oil and garlic, tomato basil, cream sauce, or red and white clam sauce. There’s also homemade four cheese lasagna, gnocchi, baked ziti, eggplant or zucchini Parmesan, to name a few.
Banana Peppers is the kind of hometown restaurant that folk s stop in to pick up a pizza or some wings on their way home from work. But it’s also a place where you can dine in with the kids, and have food with real homemade goodness. And if you can’t get there, you can still have that homemade goodness delivered. So, it’s kind of hard to categorize it. Some may see it as a pizza shop and indeed, the restaurant review website, Urbanspoon, has it down as a pizza shop and an Italian restaurant. It doesn’t really matter because whether you stop in for a pizza to go, or you stay to have dinner in the quaint dining room that seats 20, you get great food and service. As one might imagine with a name like Banana Peppers, they have to be on the menu, and they are. We tried them as an appetizer stuffed with sausage and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. It was love at first, spicy bite. But the banana peppers are not limited to just the appetizer menu, you can get a Gone Bananas Pizza that includes pepperoni, sausage, ham, onions, green peppers, black olives, hot banana peppers, anchovies, bacon, mushrooms, capicolla, and extra mozzarella cheese. This specialty pizza is $16.95 for an 8-cut; $18.95 for a 12-cut and $20.95 for a 16-cut. But if that sounds like more pizza than you can handle, there are the more traditional style
The specialty dinners, which include chicken and veal Parmesan (you have both “gone bananas”), chicken and veal Romano and chicken and veal Marsala. We tried the chicken Romano, which comes with a side of pasta, fries or vegetable and salad for only $12.95. Dipped in a egg and Romano cheese batter, it was tender inside, crispy outside, and topped with Romano cheese. Delicious! The restaurant offers soft drinks and iced tea, but if you’re in the mood to have wine with your dinner, you can BYOB. As if the restaurant and pizza business aren’t enough, Banana Peppers also does catering for special occasions such as graduations, anniversaries, birthday parties, weddings, etc., and has an extensive catering menu. “Our philosophy is to be personal with all our customers, know them by name and also provide them with the good customer service that they deserve,” Joseph Bacik said. Banana Peppers 412.650.5555 is closed Mondays, open Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. You can visit their website at www.bananapepperscatering.com West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
Jefferson Hills Borough
Jefferson Hills Borough Mayor Michael Green would like to thank individuals, groups and businesses that donated toys to the annual Jefferson Hills Holiday toy drive at the Borough Building. “We are very grateful for this much-needed help to our local families,” he said.
Jacqueline (8) and Paul (5) Guenther were among the nearly 200 children who visited with Santa (a.k.a. Mayor Green) at the Jefferson Hills Borough Holiday celebration on November 28. They are the children of Carolina and Tom Guenther of Jefferson Hills. Three-year-old Samantha Strope is pleased with the Smiley cookie that she decorated.
Mrs. Santa visited the Holiday Celebration to read stories and talk with a large group of children. She answered questions about exactly what life is like at the North Pole! 34
West Jefferson Hills
t happens all the time. A call comes into the 911 dispatcher from an anxious neighbor, family member, Meals-on-Wheels volunteer or even a kind-hearted mailman to report that a resident isn’t answering his phone or door, or hasn’t picked up his mail in a few days. An EMS team speeds to the house, forces entry and finds the person on the floor. Sometimes the patient has been praying that this life-saving help will arrive. And sadly, sometimes not even the most qualified and best-trained EMS team in the area can affect a positive outcome. The Jefferson Hills Emergency Medical Service responded to over 7,000 calls last year including the above “welfare checks.” A majority of the calls are cardiac-related emergencies, followed by other illnesses and household accidents. Other emergency calls are requests from local police and fire companies for assistance both for victims and their responding crews after fires and automobile accidents. Some 911 calls are for non-emergency “emergencies” that can be handled by the patient’s health care provider. And contrary to popular belief, less than one baby each year is delivered by our EMTs and paramedics. In September 2011, the Jefferson Hills Ambulance Association c elebrated 35 years of service to the community and their chief, Doug Pascoe couldn’t be prouder of his career and volunteer staff of 24 Paramedics, 32 EMTs, 6 nurses and 3 business office staffers who are experts in insurance billing. “Most of our team has at least ten years of experience and I honestly believe we are one of the most experienced services in this area,” he said. Pascoe noted that the Je fferson Hills paramedics were one of the first in this region that were qualified to administer life-saving drugs. “Many other local ambulance services in existence today were organized from the knowledge they gained from Jefferson Hills ambulance service,” he said. If you think you may have recognized one of the Jefferson Hills EMTs or paramedics who have responded to a call at your home also as a vo lunteer fireman, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. “Most are cross-trained in medical rescue and fire; they give to their community in both ways,” Pascoe said. In addition to emergency calls, the Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association has a very visible presence in the community. They routinely transport home-bound, bedridden or wheel chair patients to hospitals or doctor’s appointments in one of th eir six ambulances or four wheel chair vans. A team of paramedics and EMTs keep a watchful eye at many of the sporting events at Thomas Jefferson High School, and they frequently visit youth and senior citizen’s events to explain their services or demonstrate their equipment. The crew administers free flu shots every fall, and they will even visit the homes of shut-ins to provide the immunizations. Anot her fact that many residents may not know about the Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Service operation is the existence of their maintenance facility, staffed by three mechanics, on Oak Street in Large. “They not only repair our vehicles, which reduces our costs and drastically reduces how long an ambulance is out of service for repairs, but they also perform work for businesses and the public to provid e an ancillary source of income to our department,” said Pascoe. The garage is a certified inspection center and works on many types of vehicles. The phone number is 412.405.9402.
The Ambulance Service is looking forward to its annual subscription (fund) drive in May. The subscription drive provides funding for equipment upgrades, vehicles, heart monitors and other life-saving equipment. “We rely on the annual subscription drive to offset reductions in insurance payments and we hope our residents will consider contributing to our membership drive when they receive our mailing,” said Pascoe. In addition to asking for financial support, the J efferson Hills Ambulance Association is inviting anyone with a desire to help their neighbors to contact them at 412.384.0111 about free training either for volunteer work as a paramedic, EMT, or one of the many positions on the business side of their operation. They say the rewards are great in the work they do. Linda Carlson was a volunteer nurse, EMT and Paramedic at Jefferson Hills for eight years b efore becoming President of the Association’s eleven member Board of Directors twelve years ago. “This work is something that gets in your blood,” she says. “Once you begin volunteering in emergency medicine, the accomplishment and making someone’s life better because you were there is one of the most addictive and satisfying things you will ever do.” Doug Pascoe agreed. “It’s very rewarding helping yo ur neighbors,” he said. The Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association would like to help its neighbors in another important way this spring by issuing an invitation for all adults to attend a seminar in the Community Room at Jefferson Hills Borough Building on Wednesday, May 16 from 7 – 9 p.m. Entitled “What to Do Before the Ambulance Arrives,” the program will be taught by the Jefferson Hills paramedics and focus on different medical situations and important actions to take after calling 911. “This class could literally save a loved one’s life, and we are hoping that everyone will join us for this very important program on May 16,” said Pascoe.
Jefferson Hills Borough
Knox Walk, Allegheny County EMS Manager presents a proclamation of recognition of 35 years of service to the Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association to Mrs. Linda Carlson, President of the Board of Directors and Douglas Pascoe, EMS Chief.
JHAA billing staff, Jen Pascoe and Brenda Walk, verifying insurance coverage.
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Jefferson Hills Borough
E ELT C I OL ATB P S SE L L I TE NS H N NDA TEE O R S MA EA E F F E TO Y A R E J IZ B E L B I US O M
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At the exit to the high school lower lot, Officer Kevin King hands a junior driver a card explaining the new “no exceptions” seatbelt law.
n 2011 only 83.8% of Pennsylvania’s drivers wore their seatbelts when behind the wheel. That statistic included our teenagers who have only recently received their licenses. During the past month, the Jefferson Hills Police Department, with a help of a PA Department of Transportation grant, did something to raise that statistic which, unfortunately, dropped from 86% seatbelt usage in 2010. On February 15, a team of officers headed by Sergeant John O’Leary passed out warning flyers as student-driven cars left the parking lots at Thomas Jefferson High School. The flyers explained that under the recently enacted “Graduated Drivers Licensing” law, it is now a primary offense for those less than 18 years of age to drive, or a passenger to ride, unrestrained in a vehicle. (This is unlike the “secondary offense law,” where an adult driver (age 18 and over) can only be cited for not wearing a seatbelt if he is stopped for another “primary offense” such as speeding or reckless driving.) “We are using a zero tolerance enforcement mentality around the school and throughout the community as we impress on our youngest drivers that they must buckle up every time they get in the car. Putting on your seatbelt should be as natural as starting up the car,” said Chief Gene Roach. At Thomas Jefferson High School, students are being continually reminded about seatbelt use at school, both by announcements and signs around the school and at parking lot exits. “This is a great project and we are going to support the police and heighten (seatbelt) awareness,” said high school principal Tim Hasselhoff. “Young drivers traveling the short distance from school to home may feel safe and not use their seatbelt, but statistics show that accidents happen close to home,” he said.
Sergeant John O’Leary makes sure that a high school senior understands that she is responsible for making sure that all of her passengers are also buckled up.
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Pennsylvania’s Graduated License Law Frequently Asked Questions Q. If the driver (belted) is under 18, and a passenger (unbelted) is under 18, who is charged with the seatbelt violation?
A. It is the driver’s obligation to make sure that all passengers are belted, and the driver will be cited.
Q. How many passengers may a junior driver carry?
A. A junior driver in his first six months may only carry one additional passenger unless passengers are immediate family members. This provision does not apply if the junior driver is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Jefferson Hills Borough All meetings are open to the public and held at the Jefferson Hills Borough Building Community Room at 8 p.m. March 28 Joyce Schmidt will present antique toys owned by Thomas Blatchford, collector.
Q. When does a junior driver earn the ability to carry more than one non-family passenger?
A. The junior driver can only carry one non-family passenger for six months from the issuance of their junior license. After that, they can only carry three non-family passengers until their 18th birthday.
Q. Can a junior driver lose the ability to carry more than one non-family passenger?
A. Yes, if they are responsible for a reportable accident under Section 3746(a) OR if they are convicted of any Vehicle Code violation.
The Jefferson Hills Police are asking for family support to make their seatbelt campaign a success. “We are asking parents to insist that their teens be buckled-up or they should not be permitted to drive the car,” said Chief Roach. The fine for a seatbelt citation is $10, and with other court related costs, the total fine is over $60. However, Sergeant O’Leary sees the success of the new seatbelt project only in terms of possibly saving the life of one of our teen drivers. “If we never have to write a citation because everyone is cooperating, you’ll never find a happier police department,” he said.
April 25 Kevin Christofel presents “Gettysburg Cyclorama”
May 23 Jeremy Neely, author of “The Royal Perfects” will speak on publishing your own material both in print and e-Books.
June 27 “The Legacy of Early West Jefferson Hills Settlers” presented by Deborah Morinello and Beverly Borneman
July 25 “History of Kaufman’s Department Store” presented by Robert Stakeley, Educator at Heinz History Center
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
Jefferson Hills Borough Jefferson Hills Council Reorganizes on January 3, 2012 Congratulations to Tracey P. Khalil, Kathleen Reynolds and James A. Weber who were sworn in for new four year terms by Commonwealth Court Judge Patricia McCullough when the Jefferson Hills Council reorganized on January 3, 2012. Council President is Mr. King and Council Vice President is Mr. Weber. Chairman Pro Tem of Council is Mr. Khalil.
Front row (l-r) – Vickie Ielase, Chris King, Kathleen Reynolds, Jan Cmar Back row (l-r) – Mayor Michael Green, Tracey Khalil, James Weber, J. Scott Albrecht
Mark Your Calendar… Borough Spring Leaf Pickup Days will be held on April 17, May 1 and May 15. Please place leaves in brown leaf bags which are available in all home stores. Twigs should be tied in 4 ft. bundles.
Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Company Chief and Assistant Chief Participate In Ice Hockey Fundraising Events Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Chief Adam Galis as well as other South Hills volunteer firefighters (Pittsburgh FOOLS), took on the Pittsburgh Bureau of Firefighters hockey team for bragging rights as Pittsburgh’s best firefighting hockey team on Sunday, January 8 at the outdoor ice rink on 26th St. in the Southside. (Gill Hall Assistant Chief Mark Breier is also a member of the Pittsburgh FOOLS team.) Proceeds benefitted the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Read more about the Pittsburgh Metro FOOLS on their FACEBOOK page.
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Jefferson Hills Borough
Thanks to the Jefferson Hills Borough Recreation Board, nearly 300 elementary school children and their parents had a wonderful time on February 10 ushering in Valentine’s Day with a dance held at the Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Hall. The event included everything needed to have a great party: fantastic decorations, a DJ and dancing, games, food and, of course, lots of friends! If you would like to be a member of the Recreation Board that works to develop and coordinate activities within the Borough parks, please send a letter of interest to Borough Manager, Mr. Doug Arndt, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. The Recreation Board meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Municipal Center.
TJ High School Senior Sadie Shoaf poses with Caleb Boyle after she painted what else but a heart on his face to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Families and friends enjoyed the dance. Front Row (children): Siena Abercrombie, Liz Janusek, Tirli Abercrombie, Spencer Skalos, Max Skalos, John Janusek, Madison Driskill Back Row (adults): Brian Abercrombie, Jen Abercrombie, Matt Skalos, Joe Janusek, Jen Janusek
Jeanne and Mark Sluk and their children, Brendan, and Ryan and Alayna wore their coolest party “stuff” for the occasion!
Morgan and Madison Keck took a second from the many activities at the dance for a quick photo! West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
Jefferson Hills Borough “Books & Boutique” 15th ANNUAL USED BOOK SALE & Boutique
Library News
Preview Party: Thursday, April 19, 7 – 9 p.m. Sale: Friday, April 20, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Saturday, April 21, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. BOGO FREE DAY in Children’s and Young Adult
LOCAL BEAR CUBS ARE LIBRARY’S SPECIAL GUESTS Bear Cub Scouts from Pack #712, who are all third graders, recently visited Jefferson Hills Library to do some research on famous Americans and also special events that happened in the year they were born.
Sunday, April 22, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. Bag Day - $5/Bag The Friends of Jefferson Hills Library is a group of residents who make a huge contribution to our community though a number of fundraising events each year such as the annual book sale, cookie sale, Holiday celebration and fall direct mailer to the community. The funds raised in these events support Jefferson Hills Library in purchasing unbudgeted books, supplies and programming. The Frien ds are currently working very hard to make the upcoming book sale a success, including a new look to the jewelry sale, which this year will be featured as a BOUTIQUE SALE and include jewelry, belts, scarves/purses, gloves and photo frames. To donate “like new” boutique items or books for the sale, drop them off at the library during regular library hours. The book sale “preview party” will be held on T hursday, April 19 from 7 – 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the library and are $8 the day of the event and $6 if purchased in advance of April 19. The preview party features first choice of books and boutique items, appetizers, drinks and raffle baskets. “Thanks to everyone who worked to make 2011 another record breaking donation year to the library,” said Valerie Bailey, Friends Treasurer. If you would like to become a member of the Friends or a SPONSOR of the 2012 Book Sale, please see the web page of the Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library website http://jeffersonhillslibrary.org/friends.html.
Mark Your Calendar….
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l-r Nathan Sobeck, Aiden Palmer, Connor Falce, Christian Colosimo, Kevin Atkinson (Adult Leader - Bear Den), Jeffrey Weir, Jarrett Colosimo (Adult Leader - Cub Master), Andy Atkinson, Jake Krawczyk, Joshua Neidermeyer
The Children’s and Teens Summer Reading Program begins on June 19. Watch our web site, www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org, or visit the library for more information around May 1.
SPRING PROGRAMS 2012
Jefferson Hills Borough
925 Old Clairton Road ~ Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 All Programs are held at the Library. See each program for registration requirements.
TACKLING SPRING PROJECTS AROUND YOUR HOME WITH HOME DEPOT In an effort to reach out to our local community, Jefferson Hills Library is happy to partner with Home Depot to offer do-it-yourself workshops for adults and teens. The workshops will be held the fourth Thursday of the month at the Library. No registration is required. Seed Starting March 22, 7 p.m. What better way to beat the winter blues than to see plants sprout to life! We will show you how easy and inexpensive it is to grow your own vegetables and flowers from seeds. Mosaic Tile Installation April 26, 7 p.m. Tired of the same old tile in the kitchen or bathroom? Let us show you how easy it is to install a tile backsplash that will enhance your home’s beauty. Or just learn how much fun it is to work with mosaic tile to enhance any project.
Learn to Play Bridge Tuesday, beginning March 27, 6:30 p.m. Join local bridge expert Thomas Morris to learn the most popular card game in the world. You’ll be prepared to play at bridge parties, cruises, and tournaments or for just plain fun! Call Mr. Morris at 412.384.4378 if you would like more information about the bridge lessons. Registration is required by calling 412.655.7741 or on-line at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org.
Scrabble Club Meets Tuesdays from noon to 4. New members are welcome any Tuesday.
SAT Preparation Class Taught by Test Master (www.testmaster.com) Sundays, April 1, 15, 22, 29, 1 to 4 p.m. Registration and payment of $175 must be made in person at Jefferson Hills Library.
What To Do Before the Ambulance Arrives May 16, 7 – 9 p.m. See page 35 for details.
Pre-School and Kindergarten Story Time March 22, 29, April 26, May 3, 10, 17 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. No registration is required.
Silver Scholars Computer Classes For Boomers & Beyond Silver Scholars teaches computer classes specifically designed for individuals over the age of 50, but all are invited. The classes are fun, interactive, begin with the basics, and will help you become a computer whiz! All classes will be held at the Jefferson Hills Community Room at the Library. Contact Silver Scholars at 412.283.0105 to register. A class consists of two, two-hour sessions and a large print book is included.
Buying and Selling on eBay - $45 Microsoft Excel (Making Mondays, March 19 & 26 Financials Easier) 1 & 2 - $45 Mondays, May 14 & 21 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Prerequisite: Basic Computer and Internet 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Prerequisite: Basic Computers Parts 1 & 2 knowledge or equivalent knowledge.
Small Home Repairs May 24, 7 p.m. Let us show you how easy it is to switch out your faucet, change an outlet, or install a ceiling fan. You can do it, and we can help!
Basic Word Processing Using Microsoft Word 1 & 2 - $45
Painting June 28, 7 p.m. Have you updated your walls lately? You may be amazed at how many new and unique finishes there are! Let us show you how easy it is to add some color to your world.
Basic Word Processing Using Microsoft Word 3 & 4 - $45
Mondays, April 16 & 23 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Prerequisite: Basic Computers or equivalent knowledge.
Mondays, April 30 & May 7 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Prerequisite: Microsoft Word Parts 1 & 2 or equivalent knowledge.
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
By Dana Black McGrath
t IN Community Magazines, we realize that many of our readers may not be familiar with their elected officials or the services they provide to the community. So, in this issue, we decided to offer a brief introduction to our state representatives so that our readers may learn more about the people who serve and the work they do on behalf of their constituents. Here we reach out to State Rep. Rick Saccone, a Republican who represents the 39th legislative district, which straddles Allegheny and Washington counties. In Allegheny County, that includes parts of Elizabeth Twp., along with Clairton, Elizabeth, Forward Twp., Jefferson Hills, South Park Twp., and West Elizabeth. In Washington County, the district includes Finleyville, New Eagle, Nottingham Twp., Union Twp., and parts of Carroll Twp.
Q: A:
How long have you been serving in your current position? I am entering my second year of office.
Q: A:
What led you to seek the office? I thought I could actually improve a government that ignored the taxpayers, could not pass a budget on time, borrowed inordinate amounts of money to cover its out of control spending, was wracked with corruption, handing out taxpayer funds to its supporters, was disgracefully inefficient and wasteful, and disregarded our second amendment rights.
Q: A:
Have you held any other elected position? I was on the Elizabeth Forward School Board about 10 years ago.
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What is your favorite part of the job? I truly enjoy helping taxpayers and moving government to help others – everything from helping a senior citizen fill out a form to the time we helped save a couple’s house from mine subsidence. Helping others is a blessing to me that makes the job quite fulfilling.
Q:
What types of services or assistance do you offer constituents at your district offices? Some of the services we provide include: • Assistance for seniors filing for property tax rebates, including home visits for shut-ins. • Available state and federal tax forms.
A:
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• Applying for discount vehicle registration (for seniors who qualify). • Applying for handicapped placards. • LIHEAP (energy assistance). • Issues with unemployment compensation, Department of Public Welfare, PennDOT, public utilities and the Department of Aging. • Notary service. • Information on grants. • Filing for unclaimed property. • Educational and informational brochures for students, seniors, veterans, sportsmen, firearms owners and pet owners, to name a few, on a wide variety of government programs. • Registering constituent views on current or upcoming legislation.
Q: A:
Q: A:
Q: A:
Q: A:
What is the most common question or issue constituents request help with? Constituents have diverse needs and request assistance whenever they are experiencing difficulty with the state bureaucracy. The state representative is the citizen’s bridge to the bureaucracy. We can’t help in every situation but our friendly and helpful staff has a pretty strong record of success. What are some of your goals for 2012 for your district? I am working on school property tax elimination legislation. I will be involved in helping craft another ontime budget with no tax increase or borrowing. The taxpayers worry about taxes and I love to champion reducing taxes and spending. I will try hard to privatize the state liquor stores and craft additional government reforms including welfare reform and unemployment compensation reform. I will promote the legislation I cosponsored to shrink the size of our legislature and reform the pension system. Residents would be surprised to know that ____. I am an author. I like to write and have authored eight books. I am currently working on two more books but the pace is very slow at this time. What are your favorite things to do or places to visit in your district? I really enjoy attending local community events as the people are so friendly. I have had great experiences participating in Eagle Scout ceremonies which I consider a moving event. In my spare personal time I enjoy working in the yard with my wife.
To learn more about Rep. Saccone, please view the video clips and other information available on his website at www.repsaccone.com and at www.facebook.com/RepSaccone.
West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
/////////////////////////// Pleasant Hills Roller Hockey League By Pamela Palongue
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he Pleasant Hills Roller Hockey League was established in 1995 and has over 300 members. One thing that makes the league so unique is that it is open to all ages and is coed. Despite the fact that it bears the name of Pleasant Hills, about one-third of the members are from the Baldwin area according to the secretary of the league, Vickie Stock. In fact, PHRHL has members from all over the South Hills. Stock initially became involved with the league when her children were still in school and played on a regular basis. “They’ve been out of school for years now and I’m still involved with it because it’s just so much fun,” says Stock. “We have people of all different levels of skill playing,” she adds. There is a “Learn to Play” program for children age 8 and under, competitive divisions for children age 9 to 18 and an adult league for individuals over the age of 19. The equipment used for roller hockey is fairly similar to that of ice hockey, with a few important differences. The most obvious difference involves the skates, which are inline rather than ice skates. Also, a ball is used instead of a hockey puck. One other difference in the equipment is the wearing of special lightweight pants that contain no padding. “There is no checking in roller hockey,” says Stock, making the padding somewhat unnecessary. However, the padding might come in handy when players take a spill on the asphalt outdoor court where the games are played. The PHRHL also has its own rule book. PHRHL is a summer league with the season beginning in May and ending with intramural playoffs in August. Registration for the league began in March. Players can still register online at the league's website
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www.eteamz.com/phrhl. In order to participate, players will need a helmet with a cage, a mouth guard, gloves, elbow protectors and knee pads, a hockey stick and inline skates. Fees are relatively inexpensive and discounts are offered for large families and siblings. Stock suggests coming to the borough building to register in person if new to the sport. “There are always people on hand to answer questions for [newcomers] and give helpful information.� If you or your child will be looking for an exciting sport to play during the summer months, roller hockey might be just the venue you have been looking for to provide exercise and fun social interaction. West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
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o many, hunger is someone else’s problem; a difficulty that will happen to someone else’s family. But according to a 2004 study by Washington University of St. Louis, at least 42% of Americans will deal with food insecurity at some time during their lives. It is interesting to note that this study was done four years prior to the beginning of the recession. It is hard to overestimate the importance of food to quality of life and overall health. Medical experts now tell us that the major factors in determining disease are DNA, exercise and nutrition. A person may be able to stay alive by eating cereal every day, but how healthy is a consistent diet of nothing but cereal?
Local Food Pantry Helps Fight Hunger
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Unfortunately, the poor are many times forced to buy what is cheap without regard for nutritional value. Indeed, many people are lucky to hav e enough money to buy food at all. As people age, nutrition becomes even more important to sustaining life. For individuals with health problems such as diabetes or heart problems, good food is essential. To growing children, proper nutrition is vitally important for optimal learning in school and normal physical development. Unfortunately, many people in our area do not have enough food to eat, much less the financial resources to buy healthy, nutritious food. One common misconception is that people who are hungry are unemployed. Although this is sometimes the case, many individuals who work at full-time jobs do not have enough to eat. With employee benefits such as health care decreasing, many workers are faced with the choice of paying for their health care insurance and prescriptions -or food. W orkers have also accepted cutbacks in the number of hours worked or decreases in hourly wages in order to retain their jobs. This shortage in pay has to be made up in other areas and one way that individuals stretch their paycheck is by skipping meals to the detriment of their health. According to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, since August of 2008, area food banks have been serving an aver age of 2,500 new households every month! This dramatic increase correlates directly to the economic hard times of the past few years. The Clairton Emergency Food Pantry serves individuals from West Jefferson Hills who are food insecure. The pantry is operated the first and third Wednesday of every month at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 501 Mitchell Avenue. Although the church does not opera te the food pantry, they have generously donated the space for distributing food to those in need. A local volunteer who declined to be identified stated that the food pantry has seen the number of people in need double over the past three years. There is little job security with many individuals losing their employment, even after ten or twenty years of service to their employers. In other situations, economic hardship can be the result of unforeseeable circumstances. “Susan” and “Bob” held good jobs and were raising their two children in the south hills, living in an attractive cottage
home. Although they were young and healthy, Susan suddenly fell ill and had to be hospitalized for several weeks. Insurance took care of the hospital bills, however the loss of Susan’s income left the family without enough money to pay for groceries. A long rehab process had to be completed before Susan would be able to return to work. For the first two weeks after her discharge, Bob had to stay home w ith Susan to care for her since she was unable to walk, cook a meal or bathe. This further depleted the family income. During this difficult time, Bob and Susan were able to receive enough groceries from the local food pantry to help sustain their family. The provisions from the food pantry were a great relief for Bob,
who knew that at least his family would have enough to eat. As Susan recovered, they were slowly able to catch up their bills and get their finances back on track. Luckily, their dependence on the food pantry was fairly short-lived. Many situations can cause a person or family to be in a position of need for food. Unexpected job loss and health problems like the families previously mentioned are just a couple of reasons that individuals may experience a food shortage. Many persons work in low-paying jobs with limited education and are unable to make ends meet even in stable times. Divorce often leaves mothers with small children in difficult financial situations, unable to provide for their families, especially if child support is non-existent. The death of a spouse or other wage-earner in the household can deal a sharp economic blow to any family. Individuals who live with very little disposable income may find themselves with food insecurity if expensive car repairs are needed in order to maintain transportation to work. The causes of food insecurity are as numerous as
the people dealing with the problem of hunger. If a family is fortunate enough to have enough to eat, there are important things that anyone can do to help those who are hungry. One of the most obvious ways is to donate mo ney to your local food pantry. This enables the food bank to buy the nutritious foods that are needed, rather than having to cope with limited amounts of random food items. Although many businesses and corporations support the food banks, they could not survive without help from the general population at large. The support of individuals in the community is crucial. For some families, a donation of $25 or $50 may pose a hardship on their budget. But even with limited incomes, there are things that almost anyone can do to help. Most grocery stores offer shoppers the opportunity to make a contribution to the local food pantry at the check-out line. If every family who is able makes a donation of $1 each week when they shop for groceries, think of the money that could be generated to help feed the hungry ! By donating a smaller amount more frequently, it is less painful than writing a check for $20 or more. A small donation of one dollar will most likely not be missed in the family budget, but will help make a big impact when combined with the dollars from other area households. Although monetary donations allow the food pantry the ability to buy food supplies to fill their particular needs, food donat ions are also helpful. Many times we buy things at the store with good intentions, but those items at the back of the cupboard are just not being eaten. Chances are if you take a quick inventory of your pantry, there are a few items that could be donated to your local food bank. In particular need are high fiber cereals, rice, pasta, canned beans such as kidney, black and navy which are an important source of protei n. Peanut butter, canned tuna and salmon also supply much needed protein. Canned vegetables and fruits are always welcomed as well as fruit and vegetable juices, although they should be 100% juice, so be sure to check the ingredients label before donating. Chili, stews and soups are also valuable items because they offer a quick and easy way to get several daily nutrients in one, convenient source. Glass con tainers cannot be accepted at local food banks because of possible breakage. Although many foods remain nutritious and palatable after they expire, some do not. Therefore donated food items should not be expired. Another practically painless way to donate food is to take advantage of store specials. When your local grocery runs a special where two items may be purchased and the third one is free or a ‘t wo for the price of one’ special, West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
consider donating that extra can of carrots to the food pantry. If this is done weekly, the items will add up quickly and the surplus will help feed hungry families. Last of all, but in no way least, if individuals cannot afford even small sacrifices of money or groceries, time is another valuable commodity. Most food banks are operated entirely by volunteers. There are many different jobs to do which a llow a person to be matched with a task that fits their own unique personality. Groceries must be organized and stocked on the shelves and later packed into boxes for food pantry clients. Individuals are also needed to work directly with clients to determine eligibility and the distribution of food. Still other persons are needed for fundraising activities, food drive events and marketing duties.
One of the best things about helping your local food pantry is that you are helping your neighbors. Oftentimes, the hungry go unnoticed because hunger cannot be seen or felt by those around it. The person who is hungry could even be your neighbor, a coworker or the waitress at your local coffee shop. If 42% of U.S. citizens will be visiting a food bank at some time in their lives, the hungry person may even be you or you r family. Helping the food pantry to help others will build a stronger, healthier community for us all. If you would like more information on the Clairton Emergency Food Pantry, you may contact them at 412.253.5713.
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Protecting a Home from Mold I
t’s important to have a plan and routine in order to protect a home from mold. This involves constantly looking for watermarks on ceilings or walls, signs of mold growth and musty smells. If mold is caught early enough, it can be removed with a simple cleaning solution of bleach and water. However, preventing mold from growing again requires that the source of moisture be eliminated. The area where the mold started growing must also be dried properly. In some cases, the surface or area may simply need to be replaced. After cleaning the mold and attacking the source, be sure to place all rags, clothing, materials, paper and other debris affected in a plastic bag to be thrown in the garbage. Mold is similar to inse ct infestations and rot in the respect that it is usually not covered under a homeowners insurance policy. Standard policies afford coverage for sudden or accidental disasters. However, they don’t offer coverage for cleaning or maintaining a home. If the mold is a direct result of a burst pipe or other covered peril, the insurance company may cover the cost to eliminate the mold. Since mold is also dang erous, it’s important to tackle the problem immediately if it arises. Mold can cause family members in the home to become sick. Symptoms are usually similar to allergic reactions or hay fever. The best way to avoid all of these problems is to take steps to prevent mold. The following steps can be taken to prevent mold from growing. It’s best to keep the humidity level between 30 and 60 percent by utilizing dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Be sure to place exhaust fans in all bathrooms and kitchens. If carpet is desired, avoid installing it in bathrooms or kitchens. It’s best to have carpet only in rooms that aren’t exposed to moisture on a regular basis. Another important thing to remember is to avoid letting water pool and collect under house plants. B e sure to regularly inspect pipes, fittings and hoses. It’s best to replace hoses to appliances that use water every five years. Clean all bathrooms in the home with bleach and water regularly. There
are also several other cleaning products available that are designed to kill mold. It’s a good idea to add mold inhibitors to paint before applying it to the walls or doors. If at any time a large amount of water comes into contact with the home’s interior, it’s important to ensure that carpets, upholstery and any other surfaces that hold water are dried thoroughly and promptly. Everything should completely dry within 24 to 48 hours following the initial water contact. Items that can’t be dried should be discarded. If there is standing water, remove it promptly. In addition to promoting mold growth, standing water is a prime breeding ground for microorganisms. After all areas have been dried, wash and disinfect them well. This includes the surfaces of appliances, closets, walls, shelves, floors, heating systems and cooling systems. Another way to prevent mold is to check the roof and gutters frequently. Clear the gu tters of any debris. If there are any leaks in the roof, have them repaired immediately to avoid water seeping into the home. While mold is problematic, it can be prevented with proper care. For any questions about mold and the specific terms of an individual homeowners insurance policy, contact your agent.
Cusumano Insurance, a local family-owned business, has been servicing the Pittsburgh area since 1958. The agency represents several insurance companies offering various options for your personal and business insurance needs. Their experienced staff are creative problem solvers who help find the suitable insurance companies, products and discounts to meet your specific needs. Give them a call today for a free insurance review. This Industry Insight was provided by: Joann Cusumano Sciulli, AAI Agency Principal
Rosann Cusumano Elinsky, AAI, LUTCF Agency Principal
Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. • 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills, PA 15236 West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 49
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By Heather Holtschlag
Curb appeal is not necessarily something that most people will be able to define in precise terms, but they will know it when they see it. Simply put, it is about making your front yard and the front of your house stand out and look better than the rest. And, if people like what they see on the outside, including potential buyers, the chances are good that they will want to see what the house looks like on the inside. But what can you do to make your house stand apart? To begin, play up your home’s doorway—one of the first areas people see when looking at your house—with color, a clean door free of nicks, and clean metal fixtures. Consider adding a wreath or some other type of door decoration.
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Low-voltage landscape lighting, particularly accent lighting displayed in nearby trees or throughout other outdoor fixtures, can not only enhance a yard’s appearance but provide a pathway of lighted safety for visitors. Potted colorful flowers can provide instant curb appeal and can be purchased already assembled at a local garden center, or you may choose to buy an empty container to fill with all of your favorite flowers on your own.
On a similar note, window boxes can be filled with your favorite flowers to match the rest of your yard’s color scheme. Consider adding some fixtures like birdbaths and wind chimes to add visual appeal to a yard, and a water fountain can sound heavenly on a warm summer day (but be sure to place them on level ground for optimum enjoyment). Shutters and trim work not only add texture and ventilation to a home, but provide added security as well.
To achieve the best curb appeal, paint the shutters in a color that matches the outside of your house and the rest of your yard. In addition, new garden beds are always a welcome sight. Consider planting new gardens in spots that will be most pleasing to the eye, such as along the driveway and in front of the house.
On a similar note, window boxes can be filled with your favorite flowers to match the rest of your yard’s color scheme.
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Add shutters or accent trim Shutters and trim add a welcoming layer of beauty to your home’s exterior. Shutters also control light and ventilation, and provide additional security. Exterior shutters can be made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass. New composite materials make trim details durable and low maintenance.
Replace old hardware House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home’s exterior. If they’re out of date, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. These elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. Oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary residences.
Add outdoor art Give your yard a little spunk by adding weather-resistant artwork. Choose pieces that complement your home’s natural palette and exterior elements. Birdbaths, metal cutouts, sculptures, and wind chimes are good choices for outdoor art. Water sculptures not only function as yard art, but the burbling sounds soothe and make hot days feel cooler. Place fountains on level ground in optimum hearing and sight vantage points.
Make a grand entry Even with a small budget, there are ways to draw attention to your front door. Molding acts like an architectural eyeliner when applied to the sides and top of the doorway.
Install window boxes Window boxes offer a fast, easy way to bring color and charm to your home exterior. Choose boxes made from copper or iron for a traditional look, or painted wood for a cottage feel. Mix and match flowers and plants to suit your lighting conditions and color scheme.
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ax season is as predictable as the tides, but to make filing your personal and small business returns as painless as possible, it’s the preparation before the preparation that makes all the difference. At BookSmarts, we cater to individuals and small business owners at this critical time of year with five convenient locations that are open year round, not just during the weeks leading up to April 15. We de al in accuracy and we stand behind our product. If there’s ever any penalty or interest because of our error, those are ours to pay. Having said that, if you are prepared upfront, and meet with our friendly staff, not only will errors be avoided, but the annual drudgery of having to pay the IRS will also be quicker, easier and even informative for you. Here’s how you can make the most of your tax preparat ion before even setting foot inside our doors:
1. Know who you’re picking to prepare your return. Our BookSmarts staff is comprised of enrolled, registered preparers, many of whom have CPA backgrounds. Our business culture promotes and encourages continuing education of our employees so that they are knowledgeable and current on the ever-changing tax codes. 2. Know your bookkeeping. Because we place a pr emium on qualified staff and client service, Intuit counts us as Certified QuickBooks Advisors. We are a full service bookkeeping company and can pay your bills, keep up with your payroll, bill your customers, reconcile your bank statements and give you timely monthly financial statements. If all you need is some advice, or assistance at the end of the year, we do that too.
investing, insurance, estate and other financial planning needs. Ameriprise serves more than two million individual, business and institutional clients through a network of more than 10,000 branded financial advisors serving clients nationwide. This vast network of experienced professionals enables us to recommend a local advisor that will work face-to-face with you and your tax professional to address your specific financial needs and goals. This Industry Insight was written by Larry Jackley, President of BookSmarts Tax & Accounting Services. For more information on BookSmarts Tax & Accounting Services, call us at 412.881.0892, or go to our website, www.booksmartstax.com to find a location close to you and for more informative information concerning our services.
3. Know your tax preparation fees. We do not take a percentage of your anticipated refund or promise refunds that are larger than life. Our fees are always less for clients who are prepared when they come to visit us. We will be happy to provide you a paper or electronic tax preparation checklist so that your fees will be as small as possible; and we even offer new client discounts. 4. Know your rights. Sometimes, it’s impossible to have all the documentation you need for your return by the April deadline. While you’re still liable to send the IRS what you anticipate owing by that deadline, you can file an extension on your return to get some extra time on your documentation obligation. Extensions are six-months, and rarely get turned down. The IRS does not require you to state a reason for filing an extension, but Pennsylvania does. That reason may be as simple as “I need more time to gather my materials.” 5. Know how to fix a mistake. For example, you may have found documentation of some other deduction that you forgot to include in your prior years’ return. Well, there’s good news for you. You have three years to file an amended return, which could result in the IRS sending you some more money back. Filing an amended return sounds like a scary process to most people, however it is a very simple and straightforward procedure. You’ve already filed your return. The amendment just corrects or adds to that return. 6. Lastly, know where to get more help if you need it. At BookSmarts, we not only help individuals and small business owners plan for their taxes, we have also partnered with Ameriprise Financial to meet all your West Jefferson Hills | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
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