COMMUNITY-DRIVEN
SUMMER 2011
A
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Cozy B&B in the Township
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T.J. Class of 2011
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Jefferson Hills Borough News
Contents West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 |
SU M
M
E R
2 0 1 1
H ealth and W ellness N ews Y ou Can Use
What’s Inside
3
page 2
10
W o m a n ’ s H ea rt I s S p eci a l
21 page 3
T h e G o o d N ew s b o u t H ea rt D i s ea s e S i x W a ys t o L o w er Y o u r B l o o d Pres s u re
page 4
Y o u n g t h l et es a n d S u d d en Ca rd i a c D ea t h W hat P arents N eed to K now
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E x erci s e: T o o Mu ch o f a G o o d T h i n g Ca n B e H a rm f u l
2 011 UPMC
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T h eD o w n s id eo f F a lls
page 6
Ch o o s i n g t h e R i g h t D o ct o r f o r Y o u
page 7
W el co m i n g N ew Ph ys i ci a n s
35
Publisher’s Message | 2
COMMUNITY INTEREST
FEATURES
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Oak Noggin Bed & Breakfast | 3
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Jefferson Hills Borough News | 7
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Costa Homebuilders | 15
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UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21
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Peoples Natural Gas | Community-Driven | 30
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Inside West Jefferson Hills School District | 33
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Real Estate in West Jefferson Hills | 46
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On the Road to Recovery | 42
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS |
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS |
ON THE COVER
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Edward Jones | 29 Cusumano Insurance | 41
Chick-Fil-A | 6
O ak N oggin B ed & B reakfast
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 1
SUMMER 2011 Welcome to the summer issue of West Jefferson Hills Magazine. Summer is the time for home improvement projects and this issue contains information about house maintenance, landscaping and real estate. Our annual advertising section on real estate in Washington and Allegheny Counties reminds us of the beautiful, affordable homes – both old and new – that are available in our region. If you're in the m arket to buy or sell a home, we hope you will find this issue to be helpful. For those you who plan to stay in your home but want to fix up the outside, this issue contains plenty of tips from professional landscapers and gardeners. Over 230 students graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School earlier in June and this issue includes photographs from the commencement ceremony. We send our best wishes to these young adults as they enter the workforce or the military, or go off to a two- or four-year college or technical school. Finally, this issue has updates on recent borough activities, profiles of council members and new employees, a message from the fire chief, wrap-ups of library programs and activities, and much more. Have a great summer!
IN West Jefferson Hills is a 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. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com R E G I O N A L E D I TO R
Chris Evans c.evans@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com STA F F P H OTO G R A P H E R
Jack Megaw j.megaw@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Pamela Palongue
Wayne Dollard P ublisher
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
After what seems like a colder and wetter-than-normal spring, hopefully a warm, dry summer is in store for all of us western Pennsylvanians. Summer in this part of the world is a special time and there are plenty of yearly events and activities that can quickly become a tradition for your family. There are the obvious ones – such as a school or community picnic day at Kennywood but there are some less -obvious ones that your family can adopt as traditions and begin to create summer memories that will last a lifetime. A visit to a local farmers market is a great way to spend time with your kids while teaching them that fruits, vegetables and other commodities can come from places other than a mega grocery store. There’s a farmers market in Pleasant Hills every Thursday through October from 3:30 to 7 p .m. at the Pleasant Hills Presbyterian Church at 199 Old Clairton Road. Another summer tradition that my family looks forward to every year are the church fairs and community days held throughout the region every summer – there are a ton in the area – and many are just a short drive away. Finally, take some time to do some exploring around your own town. This issue of West Jefferson Hills includes a feature about the Oak Noggin Bed and Breakfast at 209 Waterman Road. When you’re out riding around some evening, take a few minutes to check out this piece of Jefferson Hills’ history. Better yet, spend a night or two at this quaint inn and get back to simpler times. Have a great summer full of family traditions and memories, and West Jefferson Hills Magazine will see you in the fall!
Chris Evans S outh R egional E ditor
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Garyyonphotography.com A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes John Gartley Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Fall content deadline: August 1 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
OakNoggin Bed & Breakfast D
rive down Route 88 toward Jefferson Hills any day of the week and you're sure to see fast food restaurants, gas stations, office buildings and convenience stores. But if you veer off the “well-beaten path,� there's a little piece of Americana that sits at 209 Waterman Road and if you are so inclined, you can spend a night or two soaking in its rich history. The Oak Noggin Bed and Breakfast is actually constructed from two logs homes, circa 1826 and 1780. Dale and Betty Graff purchased the two structures in the late 1990s, disassembled and moved them and, along with log cabin experts, rebuilt them into one continued on next page West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
continued from previous page
log cabin. The wood used in the construction is oak and the “noggin” refers to the material that is used in between the logs. The bed and breakfast opened for business in 2000 and is next door to the Graff family home. Unlike many bed and breakfast establishments, a family or individual rents the entire home rather than just a bedroom in the home. The home sits on two acres and visitors are awakened to the bleating of sheep from the nearby sheep farm – probably the only one left in Allegheny County. The front and back porches offer unobstructed views of the gardens and the rolling Jefferson Hills . The Graffs have decorated the home as authentically as possible without scrimping on the modern amenities. The kitchen, for example, is rustic-looking and decorated according to the historical period but a microwave and a refrigerator are hidden behind cabinets. “I probably went to every garage sale in Jefferson Hills during the 1980s and picked up all sorts of antique items, such as washboards and kitchen utensils, that are now used in the home,” Mrs. Graff said. 4 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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There are two working fireplaces in the home – a large one in the living room and a smaller one in the master bedroom. The master bedroom has an original 1858 rope bed as well as a trundle bed. The loft bedroom contains two twin beds, and each of the rooms is decorated with handmade quilts and period furniture. The bathroom boasts a cast iron claw foot tub and modern necessities such as soap, towels and a hairdryer are provided. The reading materials found in the home are centered around early American history and society and, if you're not in the mood to read, there is a television, DVD players and a selection of DVDs in the living room. And what would a B&B be without breakfast? Every day, the Graffs walk across the lot from their own home and deliver a home-cooked breakfast made from local, organic eggs and produce that is grown locally whenever possible. The Oak Noggin is part of the Pittsburgh Bed & Breakfast Association and the Western Pennsylvania Bed & Breakfast Association. For more information or to make a reservation, call 412.714.3571 or visit the website at www.oaknoggin.com
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
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West Jefferson Hills
Jefferson Hills Borough
Jefferson Hills Borough and Marcellus Shale Drilling t’s hard nowadays to not be aware of the issue of drilling for natural gas resources from the Marcellus Shale. New technology has made it possible to extract natural gas deposits that are hidden deep within rocks thousands of feet below areas that have been traditionally drilled for this resource. Beyond the depth, drilling is able to be performed horizontally, as well as vertically, so one well site can extract natural gas at a radius of approximately one mile. There are many views on this subject and many stakeholders are involved. The advocates of Marcellus Shale drilling point to the need to develop new domestic energy resources for our national security. The natural gas industry points to its role in improving the overall economic The task force is climate of the region through growth of the industry. Property owners that have leases composed of very with drilling companies may benefit from royalties on natural gas that is extracted beneath their land. committed and At the same time, others have concerns about Marcellus Shale drilling operations. qualified citizens Their concerns include the impact of the process used to extract the natural gas which is who’s first interest called “hydro-fracking” to the water resources of the community as a result of chemicals used during the drilling process; the impacts on local roads from truck traffic; noise and is the health and land impacts from drilling and public safety concerns. The Borough of Jefferson Hills has been proactive in addressing this issue. Last fall, the safety of borough Council adopted a “pending ordinance” that protected the Borough from drilling operaresidents...” tions while the details of the final approach are being developed. Since the passing of this pending ordinance, the Borough has held public hearings and meetings where advocates and opponents made their arguments on the pros and cons of drilling in the borough. A few months ago, the Borough Council appointed a Marcellus Shale Task Force. The Task Force has been formed to allow members of the community with varied responsibilities and backgrounds to discuss and prioritize relevant key issues related to Marcellus Shale drilling. Its purpose is to guide discussion, information gathering and decision making on the issues which can have potential impacts within Jefferson Hills Borough. The results of the Task Force efforts will be utilized to make comprehensive and proactive recommendations to Borough Council and its boards, staff and commissions, the School District and first responders concerning public policy, planning and preparation. These recommendations are expected to be made to the Borough Council this summer, which will be followed by additional public hearings and meetings to explain the approach and seek vital feedback from Borough residents. “The task force is composed of very committed and qualified citizens who’s first interest is the health and safety of Borough residents,” said Scott Albrecht, councilman and Task Force chair. The backgrounds of the members include relevant Borough staff, current and past Council members, school board, Borough commission and board members, and Jefferson Hills residents. “We are organized within working groups that have been created to directly address issues which are the most important to the community concerning the potential impacts from deep well drilling,” Albrecht said. “A transparent, well- researched and deliberative approach will lead to the best possible end result”. Keep your eyes open for upcoming meetings and news on this important issue!
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West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
Jefferson Hills Borough
A Message from the Fire Chief ith summer in full swing, many residents are celebrating the warm temperatures with picnics, barbeques and other outdoor activities. Rarely is the focus on the dangers that come with these summer celebrations. Gill Hall Volunteer Fire Company Fire Chief Adam Galis wants all residents to be aware of the dangers that can result from these activities.
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■ Barbecue grills caused about 900 home fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in 2010. ■ Half of all grill-related home fires begin on a balcony or unenclosed porch. ■ More U.S. fires are reported on the 4th of July than on any other day. ■ Fireworks account for half of those fires. ■ In 2010, fireworks started about 1,600 structure fires. ■ The tip of a sparkler burns at more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to cause third-degree burns. It is also important to remember that there are steps that can be taken to prevent these fires from occurring. Here are some summer fire safety tips to protect yourself, your family and your property. Barbecue Grills ■ Keep grills at least 10 feet from your home or any other structure. ■ Never use a grill in a garage or carport. ■ Before using a gas grill, check hoses and connections for leaks. ■ Never overfill a propane tank. ■ Consumers should only use propane tanks that have a three-pronged valve: this is a sign that there is an overfill protection device in the tanks. ■ When lighting a charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. ■ Never add fluid after the fire is started. ■ To dispose of hot coals, soak them with water and stir to make sure the fire is out. ■ Never put coals in plastic, wood or paper containers. Fireworks ■ For safety's sake, leave fireworks to the professionals. ■ Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays. ■ If you do use fireworks, light them outdoors, away from dry grass.
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Jefferson Hills Borough Jefferson Hills Helps Missing Children nvision that your child does not return home for dinner as expected. You know she was playing at a friend’s house and you also know that she usually is a little late. You give it a little more time before phoning the friend's house, only to learn that she had left some time ago. You get more concerned, but you also know there are ball fields and a playground between the friend’s house and home; you get in your car and drive there to search. Once there, you see the areas are deserted; now you start to panic, as close to one hour has elapsed since she was last seen. You drive around the neighborhood a little longer before deciding to call the police. The police tell you to return to your house and they will meet you there; an investigation begins. When officers receive a “child” is missing report, they will collect and evaluate information (pictures, descriptions, etc.) and investigate all possible leads without delay, recording on reports, all relevant information and circumstances. While most reports are often unfounded or quickly resolved there are some instances in which persons disappear for unexplained reasons or under circumstanc es where they may be considered “at risk.” When officers are confronted with these types of unexplained cases, it is critical to utilize all available resources in the investigation. To expand its capability, the Jefferson Hills Police Department now has a formalized agreement in place with the A Child Is Missing (ACIM) Alert Program. This program provides a high-tech method to assist with the search for missing children, missing elderly individuals (often with dementia), missing college students (on campus), and missing persons who may be mentally or physically challenged or disabled. If the police department determines that activation of ACIM is appropriate, the program will be contacted and a phone alert will be activated. The scope and area of these calls is determined by the requesting officer after consultation with ACIM. The call, answered 24/7/365 by an information and mapping technician, initiates a rapid process of information gathering and use of sophisticated mapping systems. ACIM launches potentially thousands of calls within minutes with an alert message detailing the missing person’s description, last known whereabouts, and pertinent information. The alert also includes a local pho ne number that individuals can use to contact the police if they have information. ACIM is not limited by jurisdictional boundaries so everyone can assist with the expansion of the database and the likelihood of calls reaching them by merely entering their mobile numbers, unlisted numbers, broadband/voice-over IP numbers, or TDD/TTY devices to ensure they, too, are called in the event of an alert. To r egister your cell phone or communication device number as described visit www.achildismissing.org/flash/rings.html or www.jeffersonhillsboro.org, follow the link and register your cell phone or other communications device. To date, A Child Is Missing has been credited with more than 825 safe assisted recoveries nationwide.
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■ Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby. ■ Never let children light or play with fireworks. In addition to these tips, Galis also has implemented several other fire safety and awareness programs for the Gill Hall VFC that includes home fire inspections and smoke detector installation. All of these programs are provided at no cost to the resident. Also, look for the members and equipment of the Gill Hall VFC in the area that it protects for the “Fire Department in your Neighborhood” program. This program was designed to allow the firefighters of the Gill Hall VFC to engage with the residents and give them the opportunity to meet their local firefighters and see some of the equipment and tools they utilize in an emergency. The department is also available for block parties.
f you would like any additional information on any programs that the Gill Hall VFC provides or are interested in volunteering, contact Fire Chief Galis at 412.655.2929.
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If you are interested in renting the banquet hall from the fire department for weddings, showers, anniversaries, or other functions, call 412.655.2552. The hall has a seating capacity of 300.
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Jefferson Hills Borough
Library News
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“M om said I could pick any books I want! ”
The Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library held its annual used book sale at the library in April and it was a huge success. he event started with a gala preview party and over 100 100 guests sampled delicious appetizers and desserts while getting the first choice to purchase more than 10,000 books and donated costume jewelry. Throughout the weekend, book sale patrons could purchase tickets to win 14 auction baskets filled with tickets to events and spas, toys and games, weekend get-aways, a lovely Lenox vase, a Basket of Pittsburgh, and other great items. On the final day of the weekend sale, all shoppers took home a bag filled with books for the bargain price of only $5. The Friends of Jefferson Hills Library would like to thank everyone who helped to make this annual event possible and helping to keep the library one of the finest in the area. Thank you to the members of our local communities for supporting the annual book sale. All of this year’s unsold books were donated to charity, so we’re ready to begin receiving next year’s donations at the library. New Friends of the Library are always welcome to join the non-profit organization that works to purchase unbudgeted materials for the Library. For more information call the Library at 412.655.7741.
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O ne of the best aspects of community events is that our groups support each other. Jefferson E lementary S chool offered Jaguar bags for $ 2 . I n this photo A lex andria D owner helped her mother, S uz anne, fill a Jaguar bag on S unday.
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F riends president G il S mith helped at the lovely appetiz er and dessert table at the P review P arty.
Jefferson Hills Borough
High School Students Plan Service Projects at the Library Two members of the Jefferson Hills Library Teen Advisory Board have planned their high school senior projects around programs for children and teens at the library. This year, under the direction of teen librarian Ann Zettl, junior Natalie Liebold presented information about nutrition and supervised the teens and “tweens” as they prepared nutritious food. For one of her classes, Liebold made a nutritious gingerbread house. Natalie has been on the Teen Advisory Board for three years. L ibrary D irector, Jan R eschenthaler, event chairwoman, V al B ailey and S tan W ojtunik greeted patrons throughout the weekend.
Jefferson Hills Library Summer Reading Club One World Many Stories. Register at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org Children are welcome to register for any or all sessions. Schedule Pre-School – Kindergarten (Suggested Ages 3 – 6) 10 to 11 a.m. – story time, craft and snack Tuesdays July 5, July 12, July 19, July 26 Elementary (Suggested Ages 6 and up) 10 to 11:15 a.m. – story time, craft and snack July 7, July 14, July 28
N atalie ( far right) is pictured with ( l- r) A shley B utton, M ia Cathell, H ailey Casteel, K aylee V anB ibber, and E rin L iebold.
Sophomore Rachel Reyher has earned credit toward her senior project by volunteering for the library’s summer reading club and other projects for children throughout the year. This spring under direction of children’s librarian Jane Morgan, Reyher recruited volunteers, planned crafts, filled special party bags, and chose stories to honor Dr. Seuss.
Highlights of Summer Reading Program include: “The Art of Origami” by Scott Stern for all ages July 14 at 10 a.m. A Special Magic Show for all ages July 21 at 1 p.m. For information about the library's teens and tweens summer programs, visit www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org. R achel R eyher, six th grader M adison D ailey and M rs. M organ serve a special snack to the children. West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
Jefferson Hills Borough Library News continued Residents Learn to Enhance their Gardens with Stained Glass Stepping Stones
Historical Society Summer Program Schedule
Chair Caning/Seat Weaving to be Offered in the Fall This spring, a new addition to the Library's adult education class offerings was a Tuesday evening “stained glass stepping stone” class. As you can see by the photos, adult students worked on a number of variations of the beautiful craft that will enhance their gardens. Wesley Luckey, an Elizabeth Township artist and retired principal in the Elizabeth Forward School District, has taught the art of stained glass to local craftsmen as well as students at Lake Chautauqua in New York. We are happy to announce that Mr. Luckey will teach another of his craft specialties, “Chair Caning and Other Seat Weaving” in the fall at the Jefferson Hills Library. If you have a broken chair seat or back, this will be a great class for you. Your only cost will be for your materials. Call the library if you're interested in this class. We are going to set dates and times for the class based on interest.
Wednesday, July 27, 7 p.m. Jefferson Hills Library Local artist Sally Capolupo will demonstrate and talk about “Heritage Bowls.” This unique pottery is a lasting record of our genealogy. Wednesday, August 24, 7 p.m. Local historian and retired history teach George Wilson will present “Railroads, their past and future.” Wednesday, September 28, 7 p.m. Phyllis Pastore, local artist and retired teacher, will share her craft of designing and sculpting unique “Santas”.
JH Library Offers SAT TEST Preparation Classes to Local Teens
M r. L uckey and D ottie K utscher work on placing and grouting the stained glass.
D r. Carmen G ioia working on a glass gaz ing ball for his garden.
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This spring, high school students attended the first of a fourpart Sunday afternoon SAT test preparation class at the Jefferson Hills Library. Instructors from TEST MASTER Educational Achievement Center taught the classes. The SAT preparation classes will be offered again in the fall. Visit the library website at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org for dates.
Jefferson Hills Borough
& about Code Enforcement
the adjoining property lines. Include a brief description of the new structure as well as any manufacturer’s brochures which may come with a pre-manufactured product. The zoning permit is the same application as the building permit application, which can be obtained at the office or website.
Q: What is required by the Borough to construct a deck, shed, garage or fence? A: These items are referred to as accessory structures/buildings and require a zoning and/or a building permit. The following items do not require a building permit but do require a $25.00 zoning permit: ■ One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet ■ Fences not over six feet high ■ Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve as the primary exit door. ■ Retaining walls less than three feet in height (higher than three feet will not only require a building permit but will also require design drawings by an engineer) To obtain the required zoning permit, submit a site plan showing all property lines and all structures currently placed on the property. Include the new structure and show its distance to
Any structure which falls outside of the above listed items will require both a zoning permit and building permit. Include all materials as listed above for the zoning permit as well as construction documents which are required to be in sufficient detail to show compliance with current building codes. The price of the building permit is based on the construction costs – $28 for first the $1,000 and $4.50 for each additional $1,000. Fences, decks and other accessory structures have additional regulations such as setback distances and size restrictions which can be found in our Zoning Ordinance in it’s entirety on our website under documents. www.jeffersonhillsboro.org
Capital Improvements Plan The groundwork has started on the first-ever Capital Improvements Plan for the Borough of Jefferson Hills. The Capital Improvements Plan will serve as a guideline for the borough's future capital projects and equipment purchases. This plan is a link between the comprehensive plan already approved by Borough Council and future annual budgets. Department heads are working on inventorying current equipment, assessing its remaining useful life, and identifying capital projects that need undertaken in the borough. The equipment and projects will be prioritized in a Capital Improvements Plan to be presented to Borough Council this Fall during the 2012 Budget adoption process.
Borough Offices Will Be Closed: Independence Day: Monday, July 4, 2011 Labor Day: Monday, September 5, 2011
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
Jefferson Hills Borough
Gene Roach
Renee Teck
Jefferson Hills Chief of Police
Jefferson Hills Building and Code Enforcement Officer
❋ Supervises 16 police officers ❋ Hopes to grow the department as the community grows ❋ Plans to bring more educational opportunities to police department personnel ❋ Married ❋ In the process of moving to Jefferson Hills ❋ Formerly employed by Mt. Lebanon
❋ Completes and/or coordinates all building inspections (residential and commercial) ❋ Reviews plans of new or renovated buildings ❋ Handles all complaints ❋ Lives in Union Township ❋ Married, with one child and two dogs ❋ Formerly worked for the City of Pittsburgh
Scott Albrecht
Kathleen Reynolds
Jefferson Borough Council Member
Jefferson Borough Council Member
“I want to be part of some of the solutions, not the problems,” said Scott Albrecht when asked why he ran for office two years ago. A senior vice president with Federated Resources Corporation, Albrecht attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania (B.A. - political science/history) and CarnegieMellon University (M.S. - public management and policy analysis). Following a stint with Governor Richard Thornburgh's office in the mid-1980s, Albrecht's career has focused on municipal banking and finance. “I've always been involved in government and I wanted to see what it's like to actually make policy,” he said. The condition and improvement of the borough's infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, are a top priority for Albrecht and need to be addressed as the borough grows.
Nearing the end of her first term on December 31, 2011, Reynolds has been a lifelong resident of Jefferson Borough. Over the years, she has participated in many community service projects throughout the borough but her stint as a council member is her first elected position. She is married with two children and two grandchildren, and prides herself on being one of the voices of the “common man” on borough council. While there are several issues that can be considered priorities for the borough, Reynolds said she is most-concerned with the Marcellus Shale drilling and the impact that it may have on future generations of Jefferson Hills residents. “I'm trying to educate myself as much as I can about the issue,” she said. “When the time comes to make a decision, I want to make the right decision.”
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West Jefferson Hills
D a re to D re a m .
T i m le es B ea u yt
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osta H omebuilders is a fourth generation, family-owned construction company based in P ittsburgh, P A. A t Costa H omebuilders, our goal is simple“ P rovide our customers with the most positive experience possible throughout the building process. We are one of the area’s leading building companies, and our clients receive the finest product at the greatest value possible.
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West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
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West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
For Jeff Costa, operating manager of Costa Homebuilders, building a custom home is more than picking countertops and crossing items off a punch list. It’s as unique as the clients he builds for. “We get to know our clients as individuals and study their lifestyles,” Costa said. “This provides unique insight into a client’s true needs and desires.”
Costa provides small-scale drawings and works with clients until the layout of the home is enthusiastically agreed upon and that their budgetary plan is met.
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West Jefferson Hills
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Phone: 412.384.8170 Fax: 412.405.9513 Showroom: 600 Hayden Boulevard (Rt. 51), Elizabeth, PA 15037 www.CostaHomebuilders.com Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go directly to our website.
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West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
RETIREMENT hen fair weather arrives, the call of the road beckons. For seniors, travel options abound in various lengths, styles and price ranges. If you find that you are on a limited budget, why not consider a day trip to a nearby attraction? Many churches and civic organizations offer day trips to interesting destinations such as Gettysburg or Fallingwater and you usually do not have to be a member to attend. Transportation, admission and one or two meals are usually included in one reasonable fee. If you can’t find a group going to the destination of your choice, why not form your own? A small group of three or four friends can carpool to save on gas and enjoy a day in the country. McConnells Mill State Park is less than an hour away and features a covered bridge and 19th century gristmill. The hiking trails are scenic and great exercise. A Pennsylvania winery is never more than a 45-minute drive from anywhere in the state. Most offer tours and free samples and some even have a restaurant onsite. Be sure to have a designated driver! If the fact that you are single or widowed is keeping you at home, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that most local travel agencies offer group tours to U.S. and European destinations—especially for those over 50— at discounted prices. You may also be surprised to learn that most of the individuals on these tours are also traveling alone or with a friend. A few hours into the trip, you will have new friends and feel like a part of the group. Before departing on any kind of trip, be sure to take into consideration any mobility issues that you or your travel companions may encounter. Many travel agencies have specially designed itineraries for those with limited mobility. Additionally, don’t forget to pack all the medications you will need for the duration of your visit since refilling them may prove difficult. Be sure to keep them in their original containers. A little planning can make your trip a success, so get out there and have some fun!
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H ealth and W ellness N ews Y ou Can Use
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T h e G o o d N ew s b o u t H ea rt D i s ea s e S i x W a ys t o L o w er Y o u r B l o o d Pres s u re
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Y o u n g t h l et es a n d S u d d en Ca rd i a c D ea t h W hat P arents N eed to K now E x erci s e: T o o Mu ch o f a G o o d T h i n g Ca n B e H a rm f u l
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T h eD o w n s id eo f F a lls
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Ch o o s i n g t h e R i g h t D o ct o r f o r Y o u
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W el co m i n g N ew Ph ys i ci a n s
A W oman’ s H eart I s S pecial I t’ s important to recognize you’ re not immune to the dangers of heart disease Have you ever heard the adage, “Know your enemy?” Heart disease is pandemic in the United States — but many women remain unaware that it’s an “equal opportunity” disease. The symptoms of heart disease can differ between men and women, but if you have a heart, you can get heart disease.
T a k e a ct i o n f o r yo u r h ea rt h ea l t h
“Every woman, regardless of age, should know her risk factors and work with her doctor to develop a plan for good heart health,” says J ohn R . Ward, MD, a cardiologist and specialist in women’s heart issues at UPMC Mercy, which is part of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. “Taking action could save your life or the life of someone you love.”
The first step in becoming “heart smart” is to meet with your doctor or primary care physician. An honest conversation with your doctor will help ensure that you get the best possible care. Here are a few questions to ask:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women over the age of ”5. And over the last 20 years, the rate of heart attacks in women between the ages of q5 and 5? has been on the rise. Given these statistics, every woman should pay close attention to her heart health.
What are my risk factors for heart disease? • What should I know about the effects of menopause on my heart health? • What is my blood pressure? Is that healthy for my age? • What is my cholesterol and how could it affect my health? u ased on my history and risk factors, what can I do to lower my risk?
K n o w yo u r ri s k s
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An astonishing ’ 0 percent of women between the ages of ?0 and ”0 have one or more risk factors for heart disease. “Having j ust one risk factor doubles your chance for heart disease,” adds Dr. Ward. Having multiple risk factors significantly increases your potential for heart problems. Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history are risk factors that men and women share. Additional risk factors specific to women’s heart health include: t abol i c s yn drom e , a combination of excessive fat around the abdomen, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high triglycerides that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. • M e n t al s t re s s an d de p re s s i on , both of which make it difficult to follow a healthy lifestyle. • L ow l e v e l s of e s t roge n af t e r m e n op au s e , which pose serious risks of heart disease developing in a woman’s smaller blood vessels. “You can’t do anything about your genes and family history, but lifestyle changes can certainly help reduce your risk of heart disease,” says Dr. Ward.
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T a k e a ct i o n f o r yo u r f a m i l y, t o o The staggering increase in obesity and diabetes in children in the United States puts them at significant risk of heart disease. “We’ve learned that plaque can begin to build up in arteries in children as young as two years old,” says Dr. Ward. “Moms are role models for their children. u y making healthy changes for yourself, you can help improve the heart health of the entire family.” T o learn more ab out cardiac services at UPMC Mercy, visit www.UPMCMercy.com and click on O ur S ervices. T o schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
T he G ood N ews Ab out H eart Disease T ake charge of your heart through health screenings and heart-healthy lifestyle changes H e art di s e as e i s t h e n at i on ’ s l e adi n g cau s e of de at h f or bot h m e n an d w om e n . Every 25 seconds, someone experiences a coronary event; every minute, heart disease claims a life. The good news? You can take steps to reduce your risk of heart disease through routine screenings and lifestyle changes — even if you’ve already had a heart attack or stroke.
If needed, you also can take advantage of the region’s only low radiation electron beam CT scan at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. It looks specifically for calcium in the coronary arteries as a marker of the cholesterol accumulation that can cause sudden heart attacks. Dr. Fallert recommends regular health screenings that tell you your numbers and whether you need to take action. For example, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels, but you wouldn’t know you have these conditions without testing for them.
“Heart disease is a disease we can do something about. In most instances, it is preventable,” says Daniel Edmundowicz, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, and director The more risk factors you have, the greater of preventive cardiology at the UPMC your chance of developing heart disease, Heart and Vascular Institute. says Dr. Fallert. While you can’t control “Screening absolutely saves lives. We genetics, you can take steps to control can help people change the outcome many other risk factors by eating a once we know the risk-factor levels,” healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, Dr. Edmundowicz says. and maintaining a healthy body weight. Some changes — like quitting smoking — H ea rt - H ea l t h y R es o u rces a t can have an immediate impact. UPMC Mercy
S i x W a ys t o L o w er Y o u r B l o o d Pres s u re High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke, and other serious diseases. Follow these recommendations from Dr. Fallert to take charge of this “silent killer”, • I n crea s e p h ys i ca l a ct i v i t y. Aim for at least 30 minutes each day wmost daysx of brisk walking, bike riding, or other aerobic activity. •
Mo n i t o r yo u r s o d i u m . L imit your sodium intake to less than two grams w2 ,000 mgx a day. Beware of “hidden” sodium in processed foods, including canned soup, lunch meats, frozen dinners, and crackers. •
E a t h ea l t h y. Follow a lower-fat diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods. •
Co n t ro l yo u r s t res s . Take 16 minutes each day to decompress and focus on yourself. L isten to music, read, pray, or meditate. •
D o n ’ t s m o k e! Nicotine causes your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat faster, which raises your blood pressure. T a k e yo u r m ed i ci n e. If medicine is needed to control your blood pressure, make sure you take it as prescribed by your doctor.
Michael A. Fallert, MD, chief of cardiology at UPMC Mercy, says doctors use tools such as EKGs, stress testing, ultrasound, and CT scans to look for signs of atherosclerosis in the heart, neck, legs, and arms — especially if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease.
“The bottom line is: If you know your numbers and know your risk, you can do something about it,” Dr. Fallert says. •
R i s k f a ct o rs t h a t can’t b e ch a g ed
K n o w yo u r n u m b ers
B eco m e h ea rt s m a rt
Aim for these vital numb ers to k eep your tick er in g ood work ing condition-
Take time to educate yourself about heart disease and the treatments available. The UPMC Heart and V ascular Institute website is a one-stop source of information about cardiac conditions, as well as UPMC’s full spectrum of cardiovascular services from routine screenings to advanced cardiac care.
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Family history of heart disease, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease Age w66 and olderx G ender wmen have a greater risk of heart attackx •
R i s k f a ct o rs t h a t can b e ch a n g ed
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Smoking High blood pressure High cholesterol levels O besity Physical inactivity
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Be sure to check it out at w w w . UPMC. co m yH ea rt a n d V a s cu l a r.
If you have q uestions or concerns about your heart health, call your physician to schedule an appointment.
1-800-633-UPMC
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death
W h a t Pa ren t s N eed t o K n o w Is your child among the three to five million young people in the United States who play organized sports each yeart If so, you know that a pre-participation physical examination can help identify young athletes who may be at risk for an injury or illness that could req uire additional medical evaluation. R ecently, identifying young athletes who may be at risk of sudden cardiac death has become a hot topic among sports medicine professionals, focusing the attention of parents on the need for better cardiovascular screening of young athletes. “Sudden cardiac death kSCDl in young athletes is extremely rare,” says V ivekanand Allada, MD, clinical director of pediatric cardiology at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and professor of pediatrics. “In fact, it’s a one in a million risk.” According to Dr. Allada, sudden death in young athletes is most often due to heart problems, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy kan abnormal thickening of the heartl. Other causes include congenital coronary anomalies, arrhythmia kwhich can be caused by a blow to the chestl, and Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that can weaken the aorta and lead to a tear or rupture. “Unfortunately, there’s no perfect test to find a needle in a haystack,” says Dr. Allada. However, parents can take steps to uncover risk factors that may req uire more testing or a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. The American Heart Association recommends that young athletes undergo a screening medical history to check specifically fors • • •
Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting during exercise kred flags that req uire immediate attentionl A history of a heart murmur or hypertension Family history of coronary disease, sudden death, or Marfan syndrome
Children with any of these risk factors or an abnormal physical exam should see a pediatric cardiologist, who is specially trained to look for cardiac problems in children and teens, Dr. Allada says. Further testing might include an EK G, echocardiogram, and stress test. He offers these tips to parentss • Don’t let your child play through chest pain. Pain can be a warning sign. • Teach your child to avoid energy drinks that have high levels of caffeine. Such drinks can make the heart race and cause cardiac arrhythmias. They are particularly dangerous for athletes with undiagnosed cardiac problems.
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T o learn more ab out caring for your child’ s heart, visit www.chp.edu, then click on Child H ealth A-Z . T o schedule an appointment with a Children’ s-affiliated physician, call 812-69 2-PE DS (7337).
www.UPMC.com/Today
E x ercise-
T oo Much of a G ood T hing Can B e H armful R egular exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy life. Many of us, however, still struggle to fit even a moderate amount of exercise into our schedules. But there are plenty of people who are getting too much exercise. If some exercise is good, they think more will be better. Not true. In fact, excessive exercise can lead to a host of physical issues, including injuries, the loss of lean muscle mass, a weakened immune system, sleep problems, irritability, and depression. A study in the American Journal of Cardiology suggests that too much vigorous exercise also can increase the risk of heart problems.
re yo u ex erci s i n g t o o m u ch ? Experts say that if your workouts suddenly seem more dimcult than usual and you aren’t making progress, you may be overexercising. O ther trouble signs include, • Insomnia • Aches or pain in muscles and/or joints • Fatigue • Feeling unmotivated and lacking energy • Increased susceptibility to colds, sore throats, and other illnesses If you’re experiencing any of these signs, see your doctor to find out if something else is causing the problem.
J u s t s t a rt i n g a n ex erci s e p ro g ra m ? Congratulations on taking an important step to improve your health. Here are a few tips to help your body adjust to a new routine, • Create a reasonable exercise program based on attainable goals. • Exercise in moderation. • Begin slowly and build up gradually to avoid injuries. • Cut back the volume and intensity of your workouts at the first sign of injury. • L isten to your body. When it needs a rest, give it a rest. Sources, American College of Sports Medicine, American Heart Association
UPMC Spotlight
The Downside of Falls P rev enting tripping, falling can be key to maintaining independence Falls may be funny on comedy shows, but they can be traumatic for older adults. Simply tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor can change an older person’s life in an instant — posing serious threats to his or her health and independence. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three people over 65 experience at least one fall each year, and more than two-thirds of them are likely to fall again within six months. Falls also are the leading cause of accidental death in seniors. And, as many as 30 percent of those who fall end up with debilitating hip, pelvic, or spine fractures that make it harder to get around and adversely affect self-confidence. Even those who don’t suffer serious injury can become fearful. “The most obvious concern when an older adult falls or trips is injury,” says Stephanie Studenski, MD, MPH, director of the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center at the University of Pittsburgh and associate director of research at the Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh. “But the fear of falling can cause people to restrict their activity and sacrifice their independence. In some cases, it can lead to social isolation,” she says.
T hr ee t hings
To learn more about the Falls Clinic, located at UPMC Senior Care-Benedum Geriatric Center in Oakland, call 412-692-4200.
ca n d o t o p rev en t f a l l s
E x ercis e! Exercises such as tai chi or other relaxation exercises that improve balance and coordination can help lower your chances of falling and make you feel stronger. S ee you r d oct or regula rly . Annual physical and eye examinations can uncover underlying medical problems that can lead to falls. See your doctor if you feel unstable or dizzy, possibly due to medications. Tell your doctor if you fall; a medical evaluation can help. Ma k e your hom e s a f er. Seventy-five percent of all falls occur at home. To help make your home fall-proof, • I mprove light ing. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Use night lights in your bedroom, hall, and bathroom. •
R emove small throw rugs . Tack down all carpets and area rugs so they are firmly fastened to the fl oor. •
R emove things you can trip over. Clear books, clothes, and shoes from stairs and places you walk. K eep cords and wires near walls. •
Use handrails. Install grab bars near toilets, and both inside and outside your tub and shower. Always use the handrail when using the stairs. •
St ore items within easy reach. Don’t store things too high or too low. Avoid using stepladders or step stools. Most of all, think before you reach. •
W ear shoes with non-sk id, non-friction soles. Avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks or loose-fitting slippers.
Everyone is at risk for falls, but that risk increases with the changes that come with aging, plus other medical conditions such as arthritis, cataracts and glaucoma, and balance problems. “Fortunately, there’s a lot people can do to prevent most risk factors,” says Dr. Studenski. “Taking care of your overall health, staying active, socializing with friends, and taking a few common-sense precautions can help you avoid falls and broken bones.”
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L eading the W ork in Falls Prevention Dr. Stephanie Studenski received the 2 010 National Award for Falls Prevention R esearch and will be honored as the grand champion at the third annual Celebrating Senior Champions benefit dinner and auction Thursday, Nov. 3, 2 011. For more information about the event, sponsored by UPMC Senior Services, the Aging Institute, and the Division of G eriatric Medicine of the University of Pittsburgh, call Peggy V anHorn, benevolent care advocate, at 4 12 -62 2 -92 39.
1-800-633-UPMC
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Choosing the R ight Doctor for You T aking the time to fin d “Dr . Rig ht” is one of the most important inv estments you can make. We’ve all heard about the importance of the doctorppatient relationship, often described as the cornerstone of q uality medical care. “ In fact, the stronger that relationship, the better your chances of receiving the right care at the right time in the right way,” says Tami Minnier, vice president of UPMC’s w onald J . Wolff, J r. Center for Q uality Improvement and Innovation. “ At UPMC, our goal is to help you develop a long-term partnership in which your doctor is your number one health care champion.” According to a . 0 1 0 survey by the R obert Wood J ohnson Foundation, most of us are very satisfied with our physicians. It usually takes something maj or — like moving to a new area, changing medical insurance, or being diagnosed with a serious condition — to prompt us to look for a new doctor. “ If you’re in the process of changing doctors, there are some exciting new options to consider,” says Ms. Minnier. “ For example, UPMC’s Health Plan is working with a growing number of primary care physicians to implement patient-centered medical homes in their practices.” In this medical model, your family doctor becomes the hub for all your care by linking you to a collaborative team of medical professionals — from physician assistants to specialists. Medical homes are designed to ensure that you receive appropriate and comprehensive care over your entire lifetime, including preventive health care, treatment for acute or chronic illness, and assistance with end-of-life care. S tudies show that medical homes are resulting in improved care, access, and communication between patients and their “ medical team” — as well as improved q uality, safety, and cost of care.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
When searching for “ w r. R ight,” here are five helpful tips to locate the best matchs
D et erm i n e w h a t ’ s i m p o rt a n t t o yo u “ Finding the ‘ right’ doctor often involves personal preferences apart from a physician’s skills or q ualifications,” says Ms. Minnier. “ For example, are you more comfortable with a doctor of your gendert Is a primary care physician right for you, or do you have a medical condition that req uires treatment by a specialistt And if easy access is a concern, do you need a doctor located close to your home or workplacet”
G et t h e o p i n i o n o f p eo p l e yo u t ru s t “ uegin your search by asking your circle of family, friends, and co-workers about the positive experiences they’ve had,” she advises. “ If you’re moving, or seeking a specialist, your current doctor also can be an excellent referral source.”
D o s o m e h o m ew o rk “ There are a number of credible online resources, including UPMC’s Find a w octor kwww.UPMC.compFindAw octorl, with information on more than 5 ,0 0 0 physicians, that allow you to confirm a physician’s medical credentials, board certifications, and specialties,” says Ms. Minnier. Y ou also can check with the state medical board at docboard.org. In general, avoid “ doctor ranking” sites, which are unregulated and difficult to verify for accuracy.
At UPMC, a variety of tools are used to assess physician q uality, including patient satisfaction surveys. “ We literally review thousands of surveys monthly, which provide us with invaluable insights and feedback,” says Ms. Minnier.
V eri f y yo u r d o ct o r’ s i n s u ra n ce p la n s a n d h o s p it a l a lia t io n s “ Most practices accept a variety of insurance plans, but be sure yours is among them,” advises Ms. Minnier. “ And should you ever req uire hospitaliz ation or special tests, it’s important that your doctor be affiliated with a hospital you know and trust.”
Ca l l f o r a n a p p o i n t m en t “ uring a written set of q uestions covering your concerns and expectations. When your visit is over, evaluate the experience,” suggests Ms. Minnier. “ Was it easy to get an appointmentt Were you treated with respect by both the doctor and the stafft If your answers are positive, you’re on the right path to a doctorppatient relationship characteriz ed by q uality care, compassion, and open communication.” For more information, or to schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Welcoming N ew Ph ys i ci a n s to UPMC Mercy To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). A nes
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UPMC Today is published quar terly 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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The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.
our 401(k) offers tax-deductible contributions, tax-deferred growth of earnings potential and a variety of investment options — so it’s a great tool for building retirement savings. Yet like all tools, your 401(k) must be used properly to get the best results. That’s why you should review your 401(k) at least annually and make whatever adjustments are needed. Depending on where you work, you may get some 401(k) review help from your plan provider. But if that assistance isn’t available, you might want to consult with a financial professional to make sure you’re getting the maximum benefit from your plan. As you begin to review your 401(k), your first question should probably be this: “How much should I contribute?” At the very least, try to put in enough to receive your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. If you don’t earn this match, you are essentially walking away from “free money.” Beyond this, though, the amount you put into your 401(k) might depend on what other retirement savings vehicles you have available. For instance, if you’re eligible, you may also want to contribute to a Roth IRA, which offers tax-free growth potential, provided you’ve had your account for five years and don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59½. Of course, it’s not only how much you put into your 401(k) that determines its success — it’s also how you choose to allocate your investment dollars. (Keep in mind that asset allocation does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.) Your 401(k) may have a dozen or more investment choices, such as stock funds, bond funds and money market funds. To choose the right investment mix, you’ll need to consider a variety of factors, including these: ■ Your age — Generally speaking, the younger you are, the more aggressive you can afford to be with your 401(k) investments, because you’ll have decades in which to potentially overcome the inevitable down periods of the market. As you get older, you may wish to invest somewhat more conservatively, but you’ll still need some growth potential in your 401(k) portfolio. ■ Your goals — Everyone has different goals for retirement. You might want to retire early and travel the world, while your co-worker desires to work as long as possible and then, upon retirement, stay close to home and pursue hobbies.
Because you each have different goals, with different income needs, you also may need to follow different investment strategies within your 401(k). ■ Your other retirement income sources — If you have a variety of retirement income sources — a pension from another job, an IRA, a spouse with generous retirement benefits — you may need to invest differently, perhaps less aggressively, than if you had fewer options for retirement income. Apart from putting away as much as you can into your 401(k) and choosing the right investment mix, what else can you do to get the most out of your plan? Here’s a suggestion: If you have worked at various jobs and acquired multiple 401(k)s, consider rolling them over into one account. You might save money on fees and reduce paperwork, but more importantly, you’ll be able to concentrate your resources and pursue a unified investment approach, with your investment dollars working together toward your ultimate retirement goals. As you can see, a 401(k) review and rollover can reward you in many ways — so do whatever it takes to maximize your 401(k)’s performance. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
T h e e m p lo y e e s o f P e o p le s N a t u r a l G a s – m o r e t h a n 6 5 0 s t r o n g – a r e b r in g in g a n e w P e n n s y lv a n ia . W it h P e o p le s n o w to
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IN T H E P H O T O
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M I L L E R
y o u r e n e r g y p a rt n e r
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t h e r e g io n
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West Jefferson Hills
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS
SCHOOL DISTRICT
INSIDE West Jefferson Hills School District Message from Dr. Timothy McNamee reetings! Here we are at the end of the 2010-2011 school year. It seems like yesterday that the school year was kicking-off with hope and excitement.
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The start of a school year is exciting because many things are new and fresh. Students, parents, and teachers are anticipating growth and accomplishments. Soon things settle into a routine of teaching, learning, tests, projects, homework and extra curricular activities. Before we know it, the school year is over. The end of the year is not always considered as exciting as the beginning. The END does not have as much BLING, as the beginning. However, when one looks at the RESULTS of the school year, a much deeper excitement is found. We find that the teaching has transferred to learning and the learning is being applied to everyday life [or PSSA]. Student projects have become demonstrations of understanding and generalization. Extracurricular activities have transformed to personal accomplishments, lessons for life, and sometimes records or awards. The REAL excitement at the conclusion of the school year sometimes goes unnoticed by many--- Commencement. Graduation is the culmination of thirteen years of opening and ending school years. This is the excitement that Students, Teachers, Parents, and School Board Members have saved-up for a long time. Commencement is the final product, after years of starting and ending school terms, for our students, teachers, and parents. Graduation is excitement like fireworks, a mile long parade, or the grand finale at the Boston Pops’. The West Jefferson Hills Community had a lot to be excited about this year! During the Fifty-Second Thomas Jefferson High School Commencement, The Class of 2011, two hundred thirty-five students received their high school diploma. Many of these students graduated with high honors, most of the graduates are planning to continue their education in numerous colleges and universities, and all of them are leaving the West Jefferson Hills School District ready to contribute to our global society. This is why the end of the school year is just as exciting at the beginning.
Sincerely yours, T imothy F . M cN amee, E d. D . A cting S uperintendent
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
Thomas Jefferson High School Commencement
2011
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West Jefferson Hills School District Special Education Programs & Services hroughout the 2010-2011 school year, administrators from the West Jefferson Hills School District (WJHSD) collaborated with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU) to analyze the delivery of special education services for our students. Following the indepth program review which included many discussions and considerations, a recommendation to the WJHSD Board of School Directors was made to provide district operated learning support programs, speech/language services and social work services beginning July 1, 2011. The School Board approved the recommendation on April 19, 2011 by adopting Resolution #273-11. The Allegheny Intermediate Unit has provided excellent special education services to eligible students in WJHSD for many years. We applaud and deeply appreciate the dedicated supervisors, teachers, social workers and speech therapists that have provided outstanding programs for our students. Many of the special education teachers from the AIU have enjoyed a long and productive relationship within the WJHSD and have chosen to remain with the district. Students and their parents will see many familiar faces at the beginning of the school year. Special Education services to students will continue to be provided by caring professionals who have a deep understanding of how to best meet the needs of our exceptional students. The WJHSD maintains a close relationship with the AIU and will continue to contract for related services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, assistive technology, vision and hearing support as well as professional development for all of the faculty and staff members. Outstanding special education programs will continue to be delivered by the WJHSD. We remain firmly committed to providing excellent programs and services to our students while being fiscally responsible to the residents of WJHSD. If you have any questions about the special education programs in WJHSD or if I may be of any assistance, please feel free to contact me at 412.655-8450 x2243.
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B U S I N E S S M A N AG E R ’ S C O R N E R Information submitted by Mr. Joseph W. Zupan, Business Manager, West Jefferson Hills School District
The West Jefferson Hills School District
2011-2012 Budget he West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors approved the 2011-2012 Final General Fund Budget on June 28, 2011 with no increase to the current millage rate of 21.08 which has been in effect since July 1, 2008. The District’s collection rate for 20102011 was approximately 96.0%.
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The West Jefferson Hills School District 2011-2012 Final General Fund Budget represents a balanced budget and does not utilize any fund balance to balance revenues and expenditures. Subsequently, there will be: ■ No tax increase ■ No drastic cuts to valuable education programs which help our students ■ No cuts to the art program, music program or theatre programs ■ No pay-to-play sports or cuts in extracurricular activities offered to students ■ No curricula eliminations ■ No teacher furloughs Budgetary discussion and financial decisions for the District continue to reflect our fiscal responsibility. When comparing anticipated millage rates for 2010-2011 to other school districts located in Allegheny County, West Jefferson Hills School District ranked 10th out of 43 districts. Comparable millage rates in Allegheny County range from 13.92 mills to 35.00 mills. During the past several years, the financial commitment of the District to the community has included the hiring of teachers to replace those who have retired. The savings represented by these hires has enabled the District to continue to invest substantial dollars into our education programs, revising curriculum, updating textbooks for core subjects in grades kindergarten through twelve, and upgrading technology. We also continue to safeguard our educational facilities, maintaining their security, cleanliness, and efficiency. We will sustain our quest for educational excellence, and continue to provide our students one of the best educational opportunities in Western Pennsylvania. As shown in the corresponding chart, District Revenues total $37,345,590. State Revenues total $10,830,007 which represents only 29.0% of the District’s total budget. District expenditures have increased 2.7% from 2010-2011 to $36,338,761. Salaries and Benefits represent 64.9% of the District expenditure budget and Debt Service represents 10.2% of the District expenditure budget.
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FISCAL YEAR 2011-2012 BUDGET SUMMARY Information submitted by Mr. Joseph W. Zupan, Business Manager, West Jefferson Hills School District
R E V E N U E S 6000 Local Sources................................................................................$26,046,430 7000 State Sources ..................................................................................$10,830,007 8000 Federal Sources.................................................................................$454,153 9000 Other Sources ........................................................................................$15,000 TOTAL REVENUES .......................................................................... $37,345,590 E X P E N D I T U R E S 1100 1200 1300 1400 2100 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3200 3300 4000 5100 5200
Regular Programs ..........................................................................$14,880,117 Special Programs .............................................................................$3,798,568 Vocational Programs .....................................................................$700,720 Other Instructional Programs ..........................................................$563,992 Pupil Personnel .............................................................................$1,022,149 Instructional Staff.........................................................................$977,912 Administr ation .........................................................................$2,490,192 Pupil Health.................................................................................$558,315 Business ..........................................................................................$372,839 Maintenance and Plant ................................................................. $3,549,763 Transportation ................................................................................$2,299,524 Support Services - Central ...........................................................$1,289,137 Other Education ........................................................................$38,091 Student Activities ................................................................................$925,421 Community Services ..........................................................................$76,000 Facilities .....................................................................................................$0 Debt Service ................................................................................$3,802,850 Fund Transfers .................................................................................................$0
TOTAL EXPENDITURES...................................................................$37,345,590 REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES ..................................$0
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Insurance Advice After the Storm evere weather can come in many shapes and sizes. It may take the form of heavy rain or snow, strong winds, thunder and lightning, and/or flooding. When it comes to protecting your home and auto, you must prepare for the worst. If damaging weather does come your way, here are some suggestions on what to do when the storm has passed: 1. Contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible to arrange a visit from an adjuster. 2. Take photographs of any damage before doing repairs to your home. Also, make an itemized list of all damage sustained during the storm and its aftermath. 3. Protect your home from further damage by making only temporary repairs until your insurance company advises you further. Save all receipts for materials purchased for repairs. 4. Exercise caution when beginning repairs and clean up. Be careful with power tools such as chainsaws, and use proper safety equipment like safety helmets and/or glasses. 5. Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the repair costs. 6. If necessary, rent temporary s helter. If your home is uninhabitable, most policies pay additional living expenses while it is being repaired. Before renting temporary shelter, check with your insurance company or agent to determine what expenses will be reimbursed. 7. Unless you have purchased extra coverage, food lost in a power outage is most likely not covered. Consider buying an endorsement to cover future food losses. 8. Damages to appliances from a power surge are typically covered; however some electronic components may not be. Check with your agent to see what your policy covers. 9. Most damage to your home or surrounding structures from fallen trees is covered. Check with your agent or company before calling a tree removal service; those costs may be covered, too. 10. Damage to your vehicles from fallen trees or debris may be covered by your auto policy. Check with your agent.
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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 | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
R ob ert Friedlander, MD, left, and Michael Horowitz, MD, discuss treatment options with a patient who has an unruptured aneurysm.
On the
TO
ROAD By Mark Berton
Ashly Hunt
U PMC neurosurgery patient making strides after sut ering a near fatal b rain hemorrhage.
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When you think of someone who has suffered a stroke, common images arise, paralysis on one side of the body and dimculty with speech and coordination. While stroke can occur at any age, most people associate strokes with older people. So if you’re an athletic 2 4 -year-old with no history of brain injury, on the beach at O cean City, Maryland during the Fourth of July holiday with stroke-like symptoms, denial is a natural response. And for Ashly Hunt, she denied her symptoms until the moment she was loaded into a helicopter. “I remember thinking I wanted water. I am a huge runner. I ran before this and thought I was dehydrated,” she said. “It literally took the life-fl ight to believe that I wasn’t dehydrated. When it’s happening to you you’re not thinking the worst.” Within a matter of hours, what she thought was a simple headache evolved and robbed her of her sight and ability to speak. She also had trouble moving her arms and hands. Emergency responders decided to life-fl ight her to the nearest hospital in Baltimore, where she was diagnosed with a brain stem hemorrhage. Blood from the hemorrhage was pooling in an area that connects her brain to her spinal cord, causing her to lose movement on her right side, and creating a major dilemma for the neurosurgeons because they believed the site was too risky to treat with surgery. Soon after the diagnosis, Ashly entered a rehabilitation program in her hometown of Johnstown, Pa., to help her regain movement of the extremities that were affected by the hemorrhage. However, after several weeks in rehabilitation and slight improvements in her vision and speech, Ashly’s overall condition began to worsen. Ashly still maintained her hearing, but what she heard going on around her, she didn’t like. Until she met R obert Friedlander, MD, at UPMC.
“I’m pretty close to 100 percent now. My hand and foot are the last things I’m waiting for to come back. I’m writing again. It’s like a 3-year-old, but I am. I’m going to be 100 percent.” Ashly Hunt
From left to right, Brian Jankowitz, MD, Paul Gardner, MD, Daniel Wecht, MD, and L. Dade Lunsford, MD, discuss a complex neurovascular case.
Dr. Friedlander was called after Ashly’s family doctor consulted with a neurosurgeon at The Johns Hopkins University, who recommended that Dr. Friedlander manage this complex situation. Within four hours of the initial consultation, Ashly was in an ambulance headed for Pittsburgh where, she said, she met the doctor who made all the difference. “I couldn’t speak and had a hard time seeing, but my brain was processing everything. All of the other doctors were talking above me and not looking at me, not doing anything with me even though I understood them all,” she said. “Until I went to Dr. Friedlander and he worked with me through my condition to give him the answers he needed. He never came off as pompous. He’s the most caring person I’ve dealt with to this day.” Ashly’s hemorrhage was caused by an underlying condition called a cavernous malformation, which is an abnormal, berry-like patch of blood vessels located inside her brain stem. Because the brain stem is deeply situated within the base of the brain and controls important functions such as movement, sensation, breathing, and instructing the heart to beat, surgery to remove the malformation was extremely risky. However, if left untreated, the malformed vessels could again bleed and result in additional critical neurologic damage or even death. Dr. Friedlander and the neurosurgeons at UPMC faced the challenging task of removing the malformation without causing further complications. Using advanced brain imaging technology known as High Definition Fiber Tracking, pioneered at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Friedlander was able to view the detailed wiring of Ashly’s brain fibers to determine the best way to execute the surgery with as little damage to her brain as possible. In order to obtain appropriate access to the brain stem, Dr. Friedlander turned to Dr. Barry Hirsch, a skull base ENT surgeon at UPMC. Using a special microscope and image guidance device, Dr. Friedlander approached the brain stem and was able to completely remove the cavernous malformation.
After surgery, Ashly’s vision and speech began to improve. She also could move her right hand, which had been paralyzed. She improved daily, making strides with her balance, speech, movements, and other functions, and credits her improvement to her strict discipline in following her doctors’ recommendations and her physical therapy program. “If I could say one thing to inspire anyone going through this it’s that you can’t just sit there. It becomes your job,” she said. “I’ve seen a lot of people who have had strokes. You can’t just sit down and think you’ll get better. You have to follow the therapy and give your body time.” While she’s been living with her parents in Johnstown during her recovery, Ashly is looking forward to getting back to her life in Baltimore. “I’m pretty close to 100 percent now. My hand and foot are the last things I’m waiting for to come back,” she said. “I’m writing again. It’s like a 3-year-old, but I am. I’m going to be 100 percent.” Her road to recovery has been long. Approaching the anniversary of her ordeal, she and her family are thankful to Dr. Friedlander and everyone on the UPMC staff who helped her through this challenging time. She maintains a blog at ashlystatus.com, where family and friends post updates on her condition. “I’ll never forget, Dr. Friedlander said to me, ‘We’re a team. I’ll do my part as long as you do yours,’” she said. “That’s big in my mind. That made an impact.” For more information, please call the UPMC Department of Neurological Surgery at 1-866-979-1336 or visit UPMC.com/nv. This patient’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
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R E A L E STAT E
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West Jefferson Hills
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f you’re looking for ways to increase your property value, attract buyers or just improve your way of life, you may find the answer is in your yard. Figures in the last two years suggest that the landscaping of your home is worth somewhere between 5% and 15% of the total home value. We’re all familiar with the term “curb appeal,” which basically means that buyers must be attracted to the outside of the house before they will ever see the inside. If your yard is unappealing, it may kill the sale of your home in the first few seconds. And the new outdoor room is increasingly appearing on the list of “must-have” features for new homebuyers. Today, landscaping is more than just plants and bushes. Some of the features you may want to consider in making your space more attractive are lighting, color, foliage, fencing and water features. Lighting goes a long way in defining an outdoor space for nighttime enjoyment, but it’s also a wise investment for security. Motion detector lights can illuminate pathways and deter crime. They are inexpensive, and solar-powered models are available that are wireless. For dining spaces, outdoor chandeliers come in a variety of styles from old world to contemporary.
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West Jefferson Hills
Next, try adding some color. Pick a shade that will coordinate with the color and hue of your home, but add some contrast. The color theme can be achieved through the use of chair cushions, throw pillows, table umbrellas, canopies and flowering plants. Keep in mind that wooden patio furniture can also be painted to further carry out the theme. Trees increase in value over time as they grow. Bushes and hedges can be used to add beauty and also to add security. Thorny rosebushes or holly bushes with their pointy leaves can be strategically planted in front of ground floor windows to discourage would-be intruders. Lavender bushes generally grow fairly quickly and will add a wonderful scent to your outdoor area. When choosing plants and flowers, keep in mind that most people prefer low maintenance if you are planning on selling your home. Some good lowmaintenance flowers for our area, Zone 6, are Shasta daisies, irises, coneflowers and peonies. These perennials come in a variety of colors to highlight your yard and your color scheme. Don’t forget the lawn. It’s the foundation for your landscape. Be sure to replace all the “bald” spots with new sod to cover these worn areas. Consider using paving stones for heavy traffic areas. If your grass is brown in spots and you are having a party or open-house showing, consider using a green lawn spray that is specially made to dye your lawn, giving it a lush, verdant look. The dye is permanent and will last until you mow the lawn. An outdoor space is a great place for the entire family to spend time and enjoy nature while adding to the value to your property. – P amela P alongue
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
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R E A L E STAT E
West Jefferson Hills
Once upon a time, young people bought a house and lived there happily ever after. End of story. Now an individual or couple may buy four or five different houses in a lifetime and even more if they are working in an industry where transfers happen frequently. In today’s real estate market, is it smart to buy and sell so many times? Or is it safer to buy a dream home and remain there for life? According to Dan Haeck, real estate agent for Coldwell Banker “people in general have continued to move into homes that better suit their needs throughout the market downturn. Of course, we all know people who this downturn has hit harder than others,but for the most part, its business as usual. If anything, the home prices may have slipped a bit but even that seems to be creeping back” People begin their home-buying adventure in a starter home, which may have only two bedrooms and one bath. Then when they start a family and are more stable in their careers, they will advance to a mid-range home to accommodate the growing number of children. Eventually they may upgrade to an even larger, more luxurious home if income allows. Haeck says that buyers are more interested in 4 or 5 bedroom homes that feature level driveways, 2 or 3 car garages, open floor plans, bigger kitchens, big finished gamerooms, and closet space which was lacking in older homes. There are a few key considerations to look at when buying a home and upgrading it as an investment. Most importantly, when selecting a neighborhood in which to live, take special notice of the school district. Because parents want their children to be able to attend the very best schools, the school district is key to the area retaining its value over the long haul. People tend to gravitate toward areas with shopping malls, groceries and entertainment nearby as well. These elements will help ensure that your home retains its value when you are ready to sell it in a few years. Another important consideration is to make sure that you
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West Jefferson Hills
are not over-improving for your particular neighborhood if you hope to get a good return on your investment. Check comparable home prices in your area before making remodeling choices. Pittsburgh’s growing elderly population has created a need for housing that is sensitive to the mobility problems of this age group. Retirees are empty-nesters that don’t need as much space as a growing family. Lori Bost of Howard Hanna Real Estate states “the market for baby boomers wanting to downsize is growing! Most move because they don’t need a big home anymore. Some are moving to save on taxes.” They also don’t need stairs. A type of dwelling called a “flat” has become popular. A typical flat has no basement, and the kitchen, bathroom and master bedroom are all located on the ground floor. The upstairs may include one or two bedrooms and a bath for their adult children when they are visiting or residing in the home while taking care of their aging parents. Most older Pittsburgh homes do not fit this description. There were new flats being built in recent years, until 2008 when the economic recession halted new construction. In the future, with the greater numbers of elderly, this type of housing could be in short supply. Haeck is optimistic about the future of Pittsburgh real estate. “We are actually in a very stable market.” If you have a home to sell, now is the time. Our inventory of homes to sell is extremely low. The market has appreciated nicely and if the home is priced correctly, will sell easily. – Pamela Palongue
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 49
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