SUMMER 2012
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
August 18th, 2012
Plus! Jefferson Hills Borough Newsletter West Jefferson Hills School District Newsletter
INSIDE
SUMMER 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
August 18th , 2012
Plus! Jefferson Hills Borough Newsl etter West Jefferson Hills Schoo District Newsl l etter
IN West Jefferson Hills | SUMMER 2012
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COMMUNITY INTEREST
Jefferson Hills Borough ................... | 4 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................................... | 25
ON THE COVER
| Residents celebrate summer at the annual Pleasant Hills Community Day.
West Jefferson Hills School District ................................................ | 33 Special Value Coupons .................... | 55
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
UPMC TODAY
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012
Joann Cusumano Sciulli & Rosann Cusumano Elinsky
Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.
Are You Prepared for a Sewer Backup? ........ | 20
Nova Care Rehabilitation
What’s Inside 2 3 4
Bringing Mother and Child Together
5 Steps for a Healthier and Safer Summer ... | 54
Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins
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Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss When Wounds Won’t Heal
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FEATURES
Pleasant Hills Community Day ........................................
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Pleasant Hills Rotarians .......................................................
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Real Estate in West Jefferson Hills ..................................
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Have a Nice Summer! .........................................................
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Highlights of Excellence: Eagle Scouts ..........................
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Welcome to the summer issue of West Jefferson Hills magazine. This year, it seems summer started in early March. However, the warm days have given people a reason to get outside early and often. Bulbs are blooming earlier and joggers are out in force. So I hope you’ve had a chance to get out there and take advantage of the early summer, and while you’re at it, let us know what you’re up to. We try to feature as much local content as we can in each issue and hope that you enjoy that content. Now, we want to get even more local and ask you directly for your stories in each issue. These features don’t have to be about you or someone you know doing something extraordinary like climbing Mt. Everest or swimming the English Channel. We want to know what makes our readers tick. It could be that you’ve always wanted a classic Thunderbird and have been restoring one for the past few years. We’d like to see it, and I’m sure others would too. So let’s start off with that, since we’re coming into car cruise season: If you or someone you know has a pretty interesting restoration project going on in their garage, let us know! Email our editor, Mark Berton, at mark@incommunitymagazines.com or call us at 72 4.942.0940. We’ll be happy to hear your story and may even send one of our photographers out to capture your work for the next issue. Keep in mind, the project doesn’t necessarily need to be current – if you’ve been cruising in your restoration project for some time now, that’s okay, too. But we’d like to know what you did at the nuts and bolts level to get your baby roadworthy. If you’re just not sur e one way or the other if you think you have a good story, call Mark and he’ll be happy to help you out! Looking forward to seeing some whitewalls and chrome in the fall issue! Have a great summer! Wayne Dollard, Publisher
Do you have a classic car that you’ve restored? If so, we’d like to hear about it. Email your name and contact information to mark@incommunitymagazines.com.
Fall content deadline: 8/8/2012
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West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
Jefferson Hills Borough
Allegheny County Commends Borough for Proposed Project In the past two years, Jefferson Hills has worked to adopt both a Borough Comprehensive Plan that identifies long-range priorities and also a Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan that identifies recreation priorities for its parks. The findings of the Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan pointed to a need for a community-wide recreation facility. Beedle Park in Floreffe with 70 acres of land was chosen as the Borough park having the greatest potential for growth.
for Beedle Park. Much consultation and collaboration by Gateway’s designers with Borough officials and Jefferson Hills Recreation Board, along with community questionnaires and public meetings resulted in the Phase I Master Plan.
In 2011, Council authorized our Borough Engineers, Gateway Engineers, to develop a Master Plan
– Allegheny County Office Of Economic Development
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Phase 1 of the Master Plan which will be completed within two years subject to funding, will include a new and reoriented soccer field; a rectangular field for general sports use; improvements in the storm water drainage so the fields will be properly drained; new parking areas, and access roads to the new fields. A grant application for half of the $349,000 Phase 1 costs has been submitted to the State. Finally, there will be an additional five phases in the Beedle Park project in the next ten years, including new baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, pavilions, additional parking and new access through Walton Road. The completion of all of these projects is contingent upon receiving adequate funding. “We would like to commend the Borough for completing an extensive planning process and for including a funding mechanism to accomplish the recommendations of the plan. As described, the development of Beedle Park is consistent with both the Borough’s plans and the Parks, Open Space and Greenways element of the County Comprehensive Plan,” said Kay Pierce, Manager, Planning Division, Allegheny County Economic Development.
Jefferson Hills Borough
Over the last several months, Jefferson Hills Borough has not been able to issue building permits in part of the Borough because of a moratorium on sewage taps from the Clairton Municipal Authority (CMA) by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In the past five years, the Borough has approved all necessary plans and agreements it could to address the DEP concerns giving rise to the moratorium. During this time, the Borough has also completed corrective action work as required by the DEP while spending approximately $3.28 million to improve the portion of its sanitary sewer system flowing to the Clairton Municipal Authority.
On April 27, 2012 the DEP issued an official order requiring the municipal entities flowing sewage to the CMA who have not approved the required plans and agreements to undertake these steps. “Once this has been accomplished, Jefferson Hills will be able to issue building permits and sewer taps to meet the needs of our growing residential and commercial developments,” said Borough Manager, Douglas Arndt. If you have questions, please call the Borough Offices at 412.655.7760.
About Pets in Our Borough Parks Jefferson Hills Borough has received some complaints about dogs running unleashed in Borough Parks and owners not cleaning up after them. The Borough is presently updating its ordinances in relation to animals. To the right is the current Borough Ordinance regarding guidelines for domesticated animals in our parks. If you do take your pet into the parks, please be sure to adhere to the ordinance and PLEASE clean up after your animal so that everyone can enjoy our beautiful parks.
Jefferson Hills Borough Ordinance §102. Regulated Uses. 1. Dogs or any other domesticated animals are not permitted at any time, except when held in leash and under the control of the owner or other person having such animal in charge. Dogs on leash shall not be permitted to use any area normally traversed, such as walks, paths or shelter areas or near benches. Places used for this purpose should be in remote sections of the park. Any person violating any provision of this Part shall, upon conviction thereof, be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than $600 plus costs... West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
Jefferson Hills Borough ALLEGHENY COUNTY REAL ESTATE TAX REASSESSMENT FAQs FOR THE JEFFERSON HILLS BOROUGH TAXPAYER The Allegheny County Tax Assessment Office is under a court order by the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge Stanton Wettick to reassess all properties in the County and those values will be effective for 2013 for all municipalities and school districts.
1.
On December 6, 2011, the Allegheny County Council passed the County’s 2012 Budget that included a one mill or a 21% hike in the real estate tax rate. This tax rate hike means that a Jefferson Hills Borough taxpayer will be paying Allegheny County an additional $100 in real estate tax for every $100,000 of assessment on your property for 2012 at the current assessed values and NOT the new values for 2013. For example in 2012, the median Jefferson Hills Borough property has been assessed at $85,000, which means that an average taxpayer will be paying about $85 in additional taxes to Allegheny County this year.
2.
First, it should be noted that the assessment notices received by Borough taxpayers in February, 2012 are effective for 2013 and NOT for 2012. Next, as a taxpayer you had the right to a hearing on the information presently being used to assess your property for 2013. Once all the hearings have been held, Allegheny County will finalize the assessment values and the Borough will receive a notification of the 2013 total assessed taxable value for the Borough. By state statute [16 P.S. 4980.2 (a)], the Borough must reduce its tax rate so that the taxes collected in 2013 will be equal to the total amount of property tax revenue received in 2012.
3.
Yes. State statute [24 P.S. 4980.2 (b)], provides that after a political subdivision has established a tax rate under subsection (a), it may establish a final tax rate by a separate and specific vote to increase its rate not to exceed one hundred five percent (105%) of the total amount of the property tax revenue received in the preceding year. For 2013, the Jefferson Hills Borough could approve a tax rate increase up to a maximum of one hundred five percent (105%) of the total amount of the property tax revenue received in 2012 by a separate and specific ordinance.
4.
The Borough hopes to have the final assessed values from Allegheny County for 2013 by October, 2012 so that a proper budget estimate can be made for passage of the 2013 Annual Budget in December, 2012.
5.
Important Real Estate Tax Dates June 30, 2012 July 1, 2012 – August 31, 2012 September 1, 2012 – October 31, 2012 After October 31, 2012
West Jefferson Hills
Mr. McCreery graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2003 with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics with a concentration in Economics. He moved to the Pittsburgh area in 2006 with his wife Jennifer. He worked for five years as the Accounting Manager for Upper St. Clair Township prior to being hired by Jefferson Hills Borough as the Finance Officer/Treasurer. During his time at Upper St. Clair, he completed a Certificate in Accounting from the University of Pittsburgh and in July 2011 successfully passed the CPA exam.
Real Estate Tax Bill Mailing Date 2% Discount Period Face Amount Period 10% Penalty Period
If you do not receive your tax bills by July 15, 2012, Call Josephine Lipnicky, Tax Collector at 412.226.2230. 6
Meet Jefferson Hills’ New Finance Officer/Treasurer Andrew McCreery
He currently lives in Mt. Lebanon and enjoys playing golf and doing crosswords in his free time.
Brandon Oskin Designs and Builds Amphitheatre at Lobb’s Cemetery This spring, Brandon Oskin, a resident of Jefferson Hills and senior at Thomas Jefferson High School, attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Eagle Scout is the highest advancement rank in Boy Scouting. In order to earn the rank, a Boy Scout must progress through five ranks preceding Eagle, and plan, develop and lead a service project. Brandon completed his Eagle service project at Lobb’s Cemetery, the historic cemetery located on Walton Road in Floreffe and the site of the Jefferson Hills annual Memorial Day service. Brandon’s project consisted of designing and building an outdoor amphitheatre, including a stage and seating area for 100 people. The project took 300 hours and three months to complete with the help of generous donations from local corporations and businesses, Brandon’s Scout Troop 231, and his family and friends.
Jefferson Hills Borough All meetings are open to the public and held at the Jefferson Hills Borough Building Community Room at 7 p.m. June 27 Brandon Oskin Eagle Scout Project, “Lobb’s Cemetery” July 25 “History of Kaufmann’s Department Store” presented by Robert Stakeley, Educator at Heinz History Center
Brandon has been interested in Lobb’s since he was a Cub Scout, marching in the Memorial Day parade and helping to raise the flag with Cub Scout pack 712. Then as a high school junior, Brandon completed his Graduation Requirement project by constructing stone flower pots on the hillside at the cemetery.
August 22 “Native American Imprint in Western Pennsylvania” presented by George Wilson
When asked why he chose to complete his Eagle Scout project at Lobb’s, Brandon said, “I hope that the community will begin to utilize this area for more than the Memorial Day service only, maybe as an outdoor classroom. This is a great historical landmark in our community and hopefully more people will pay attention to it now.” West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
Jefferson Hills Borough SIGN UP TODAY TO RECEIVE JEFFERSON HILLS BOROUGH POLICE ALERTS Jefferson Hills Borough Police Department is Now Using the Nixle Information Alert System The Jefferson Hills Borough Police Department has a new way to communicate with residents. The Nixle Community Information Service is offered free to police departments and allows them to create and deliver instant messages through cell phone text messages and email to residents who subscribe to the service. Nixle allows police departments to quickly notify residents of crime alerts, missing person notifications, traffic advisories, utility line breaks, weather alerts and other important and timely information that impacts public safety. This timely information can all be sent right from their patrol cars. Sign up to view important Jefferson Hills police notifications through a widget set up on the Jefferson Hills web site, www.jeffersonhillsboro.org. Subscribers can also choose the method by which they want to receive the message—text, email or both. A mobile application is also available. “We are pleased to be using Nixle as a convenient and vital tool in our efforts to keep the community informed, and we encourage our Jefferson Hills residents to take advantage of it,” said Police Chief Gene Roach.
…For a great presentation on May 16 to the Jefferson Hills Community! Residents were given life-saving information and practical techniques to help their loved ones while waiting for the ambulance to arrive after calling 911.
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In this photo, Chief Doug Pascoe and Assistant Chief Michael Horgos demonstrate chest compression techniques to revive victims who are not breathing. Assistant Chief Robert Gibson also demonstrated techniques to aid choking, accident, stroke, and wound victims. The team also gave suggestions for aiding them in accessing your home and medications, particularly for elderly family members and residents who live alone. “All of the information given was pertinent and important,” remarked an attendee.
Library News
Jefferson Hills Borough
Friends of the Library Sponsor Another Successful Fundraiser
A steady stream of customers browsed through the collection of over 30,000 used books and magazines.
The preview party held the evening before the general sale served wonderful appetizers and desserts in addition to first choice of books and boutique items.
Lisa Albrecht put the finishing touches on the boutique display before the first customers arrived.
The Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library hosted its annual used book sale from April 20 through 22 as bargain hunters took advantage of the opportunity to buy 30,000 books and magazines at great prices. This year a very popular feature of book sale weekend was a boutique that offered jewelry, purses, belts, scarves and photo frames. The fundraiser raises money for unbudgeted materials for the library. Thanks to everyone who worked to make this event a success. The Friends enthusiastically welcomes new members! See web page, www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org/friends.html, for more information.
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Jefferson Hills Borough Jefferson Hills Library Summer Reading Program “Dream Big”
Library News
Story time, craft and snack – Ages 3 – 6 10 to 11 a.m. June 19, 26, July 3, 10 & 24 Story time, craft and snack – Ages 6 and up 10 to 11:15 a.m. June 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19
Tweens and teens craft and snack – Ages 10 & up 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. June 19, 26, July 3, 10 & 24 Animal Rescue League program – all ages July 17 at 1:30 p.m.
Great Theme s! Jefferson Hills Library children’s programming is always a lot of fun with great themes, crafts, snacks and stories! May 16 was “Happy Birthday” day, and all children celebrated their birthday! Members of the Library’s teen advisory board, Ashley Button and Caitlin Moyer DiNardo, helped Children’s Librarian, Mrs. Ann Zettl plan the party.
SIGN UP FOR AN INTERACTIVE ONLINE READING GAME! Questyinz is an online, interactive game that engages K-5 students in reading and exploring their own interests. Children can read, write, and complete discovery quests to win badges and points towards virtual rewards for their avatar, and even real world rewards for themselves. Play the game all summer long and visit your library! Adult Summer Reading Raffle Enter to win a gift basket each time you visit the library or go online. Check the library homepage for a complete list of programs and events. Download the QR Reader App and scan the code to the right for a quick and easy way to visit our library and read about our programs!
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Partygoers are l-r: Katie Shreiber, Dylan Lautner, Alayna Button, Alec Mahathey, A.J. Schreiber, Tyler Lautner and Syndey Schreiber
Jefferson Hills Borough
On March 15, the Jefferson Hills Library dedicated the Community Living Room, two newly furnished areas adjacent to the Library in the upstairs commons area of the Jefferson Hills Borough Building. The area was made possible through donations made in the name of the late George C. Stoicovy, whose wife, Monica Stoicovy, is a member of the library board of directors. Mr. Stoicovy had worked for the West Jefferson Hills School District for 35 years and retired as a guidance counselor at the Middle School. When he died in December of 2010, friends and family were asked to donate to a memorial fund in his name benefitting the library in lieu of sending flowers. The inviting Community Living Room, which is WIFI connected, overlooks the building’s wooded grounds, and two separate areas are furnished with new carpeting, comfortable padded chairs, end tables, lamps and a conference table. Since the dedication, the area has become a meeting place for civic groups such as the West Jefferson Hills Historical Society, bridge lessons, book clubs, tutoring or just a peaceful place to sit with a laptop computer or book and enjoy some quiet time. “Our family was overwhelmed by the donations in memory of George Stoicovy, and we hope that the community enjoys this leisure space,” said Mrs. Stoicovy.
At the dedication and ribbon cutting of the new Jefferson Hills Community Living Room, Jefferson Hills Borough officials and the family of the late George Stoicovy get ready to cut the ribbon. l-r: Nico Stoicovy, Lexi Stoicovy, Jan Reschenthaler (Library Director), Dave Graffam (Library Board of Directors President), Chris Stoicovy, Michele Stoicovy, Monica Stoicovy, Nicole Ruscitto, Jason Ruscitto (hidden) Chris King (Jefferson Hills Borough Council President), Sophia Stoicovy, Roman Ruscitto.
West Jefferson Hills School District Children Read to Dogs in Unique Reading Program On April 10, Jefferson Hills Library hosted West Jefferson Hills School District elementary students who visited to meet and read with six “Tail Waggin’ Tutors.” The canine friends are members of Therapy Dogs International, a volunteer group that provides qualified handlers and their Therapy Dogs for visitation in a variety of facilities and settings. Among the group’s activities are children’s reading programs aimed at improving their reading skills by reading out loud in the relaxing atmosphere and presence of a patient and loving dog. “The children had a great time, and the dogs were celebrities,” said children’s librarian, Ann Zettl. “Both are welcome to visit us any time!” she said.
Upon arriving at the library and meeting the handlers and dogs, the children chose a book and then their favorite of the six guest dogs to read to. In this photo Tomi Campano and her new friend, Dinah relax after Tomi did a great job reading her story to Dinah.
Second grader Trevor Porter reads to a relaxed Holly as his dad, Randy Porter, and Holly’s owner enjoy the story too!
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
Russ Haythorn, Community Day Chair
he 2012 Community Day Committee is working diligently to re-energize the community and create a festive atmosphere this year throughout the entire day! There are mostly new faces on the committee this year mixed in with a few experienced individuals working together for success. I have the distinguished privilege of serving as this year’s Chair and Booth Coordinator. The following is the list of the very talented and dedicated individuals who will be working together on this year’s event. Vice-Chair and Booth Coordinator - Patti Lucas Treasurer - Sandy Pikula Entertainment - Allison Esper Fundraising - Mark Zarlino Parade Coordinators - Lisa Lancaster and Jen Meliton Logistics - Joe Kenney Council Representative - Joe Esper We certainly appreciate all of the support of those individuals with a long history with the event, especially Denny Kunkel and the Public Works Department, Chief Cunningham and the Police Department, Chief Plunkett and Baldwin EMS and of course the entire fire department! The committee is also looking to bring some new fun and entertaining participants to the parade this year so please attend and keep an eye out.
PLEASANT HILLS VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT This year Community Day celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Department. Our fire department responds to approximately 600-700 calls per year in Pleasant Hills and surrounding municipalities. The numerous individuals who have volunteered their time over these seventy-five years are countless. They respond to calls any time they are needed no matter what time of day or night, in some instances placing their lives at risk and worrying their families and friends. Sustaining a volunteer organization like this for so long is truly an endorsement on the type of individuals our community is made up of. Please join us in celebrating this fine organization! PARADE GRAND MARSHAL The Pleasant Hills Community Day committee is honored to have Tom and Lois Bonura serve as this year’s Grand Marshals. They have a combined 101 years of serving the Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Company. Tom has been an active firefighter since 1969. Throughout his tenure he has held the positions of Asst. Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, President, VicePresident, Engineer, Business Manager, Chairman as well as a member of the Board of Directors. His current positions include safety officer as well as a member of the board. Lois started as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary in 1974. She held positions as President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer and in its last year held all four positions. The Ladies Auxiliary 12
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was disbanded in 1979 and replaced with company members. Lois has been a Company Member since 1979 and has been their representative on the Board of Directors for approximately 25 out of the last 32 years. After battling and defeating non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Lois was the recipient of a new heart in 2010. She spent some time away from the fire company as she recovered, but got right back into the swing of things as soon as she felt better and the doctor’s gave her the okay. It wasn’t like they were going to be able to stop her anyway! TRES LADS SCHEDULED TO PERFORM Tres Lads will be the feature band this year. Tres Lads is a band consisting of three men playing acoustic guitar while singing songs that span several generations, such as the Beatles, Journey, Queen, Bon Jovi, among many others. They have a strong local presence as a headliner as well as opening for bands like The Clarks and Bad Company. They are not your typical acoustic band as they have a powerful stage presence like no other. Please check them out on YouTube. (www.youtube.com/treslads). I am sure you will be pleased. And of course, immediately following their performance will be FIREWORKS! VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS WELCOME Organizing an event like this is no easy task; something always pops up and new ideas constantly result in a change of plans. If you are interested in helping with community day or are new to the community and want to get involved and meet people, there is no better way than to volunteer for this event. Feel free to contact the committee about upcoming meetings. The closer we get to the event the more help we will need. If you can’t volunteer but appreciate this event and would like to donate to make Community Day a success, please do so visiting our website www.pleasanthillscommunityday.com and donating via PayPal. Donations will be recognized in PHCD program. EVENT INFORMATION As we get closer to the event please go to our website www.pleasanthillscommunityday.com. You can get familiar with the committee, vendors, schedule, and acquire any required forms for parade participation or race registration all in this location. After two years of unpleasant weather we are due for a nice day of community fellowship, lasting memories with your family and friends, and a great day to end the summer season and unfortunately for the kids, prepare to go back to school. The Committee is doing all we can to make this year’s event enjoyable, but the measure of success is your attendance and continued interest in this long lasting community tradition. HOPE TO SEE YOUR THERE!!
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
Scoutmaster Norman Miller Jr. from Troop 2 in Bridgeville spoke about the benefits of scouting at the Pleasant Hills Rotary Club meeting on May 15. Not only is Troop 2 celebrating 30 years, Scoutmaster Norman Miller Jr. is also celebrating 30 years as the troop leader.
From left to right, Jim Jones, vice president/secretary of the Rotary Club, Steve Slater, Greg Incardona, president and John Varlotto. Members meet for a weekly luncheon at Blue Flame Restaurant in Jefferson Hills. 14
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hat do Chris Olds, Jim Jones, Walter Gregory and dozens of other residents and business owners from Jefferson Hills and Pleasant Hills have in common with Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft? They’re all Rotarians, doing whatever they can for their communities and international humanitarian needs. According to Steve Slater, a seventeen-year veteran of the Pleasant Hills Rotary Club, Bill Gates challenged Rotary Club members nationwide to raise $200 million to eradicate polio in third-world countries. “In two months our clubs raised $100 million which was matched through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The former CEO then dared Rotary members with another $100 million matching fund contest. Rotarians responded with the goal realized several months later. All told, a whopping $400 million raised with the help of local Rotary Clubs just like our own,” Slater proudly pointed out. Just one example of the Rotarians’ commitment to international service, Slater added. Vocational service is another responsibility Rotary Clubs undertake. The Pleasant Hills Rotary Club sponsors two Interact Clubs for high school students, South Park and West Jefferson Hills. Greg Incardona, president of the club, who has two children in the West Jefferson High School, says it’s especially gratifying when loved ones benefit from our members’ hard work and dedication. Students are actively involved with club members on some projects while left on their own for others. South Park Interact Club members complete about 100 projects every year. Each month four students (two from each school district) attend one of the club’s luncheons. “As many as 40 students have been involved in the ‘Rotary Shadow Program’ which allowed students to shadow us in our jobs or businesses. We sponsor students at district meetings, the Interact Conference, World Affairs Conference, and Ethics Symposium,” Incardona adds. It’s important to set in motion the give back philosophy with students, he points out. Ben Lodico is a twenty-something member of the Pleasant Hills Rotary. “There are a lot of different groups I’ve been asked to join, but the Pleasant Hills Rotary Club is what they say they are – high-quality men and women truly giving back to their communities. Their selflessness really appeals to me,” Lodico explained. Lodico recalled passing out gifts at a local nursing home for Christmas. “Santa directed the singing of carols while a student played the piano,” he added. The club sponsors a “Recognition Night” for eighteen 6th, 7th and 8th graders from St. Elizabeth Elementary School and Pleasant Hills and South Park Middle Schools. “It’s a forty-year-old program originally sponsored by the Pleasant Hills Kiwanis until they folded in 1998, when we took over,” says Incardona. The club gives out six $500 scholarships to graduating seniors and donates dictionaries to 3rd graders in several local elementary schools. While the core focus of Rotary is their commitment to
From left to right Chris Olds, Jim Flowers, vice president/secretary of the club, Greg Incardona, president and Steve Slater meet for the luncheon at Blue Flame Restaurant in Jefferson Hills.
Two members attend the Rotary Club luncheon at Blue Flame Restaurant. Left is Ben Lodico, the youngest member in the club and Rich Schneider the newest member of the Rotary.
vocational, community and international services; it may be the club’s “fun raising” appeal that develops and fosters the fellowship and relationship building between club members and the folks they interact with. Reverend Dan Strussenberg, a Rotary member and pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, inserted the phrase “fun raising” in the local club’s vernacular. “It’s what we do best,” Slater quipped. The club raises and gives away about $20,000 a year, says Slater. The five main fundraisers include a Harvest Festival Dinner/Chinese Auction (renamed from the original Corn Huskers Ball); Spaghetti Dinner; Hoagie Sale; Community Day; Hot Sausage sale and ad sales on placemats used at Rotary events and some local restaurants. Three years ago the club added a golf outing and a poker tournament. A Monte Carlo Night may be added this year. Besides the weekly lunches at the Blue Flame Restaurant in Jefferson Hills that helps to build the camaraderie among members, the club hosts a Christmas/Holiday Dinner, and evening meeting featuring a high-profile speaker and the year-end Recognition Dinner where incoming board members are inaugurated, the past year’s new members recognized and the “Rotarian of the Year” honored. Upcoming events include the Pleasant Hills Community Days on Saturday, August 18th, golf outing on Monday, September 24th and the Harvest Festival slated for a Saturday night in October. The Pleasant Hills Rotary Club was chartered in 1956, has about 32 members; one from the ‘60s, a half dozen from the ‘70s and a handful from the ‘80s and ‘90s and 14 newer members with less than ten years of service. According to Incardona, members usually don’t quit or retire from the organization. “Rotary becomes a part of who you are and stays with you,” says the club president. West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
S
ome women are notorious for taking up space – closet space, kitchen space and bedroom space can overflow with shoes, clothes, jewelry and general knick knacks. And, especially if the woman’s space is spread throughout the entire house, her man might just need one room to call his own: a “Man Cave.” The idea of a Man Cave is definitely not a new one, and may have been referred to by different names, such as “The Boys Club,” a “Mantuary,” or a retreat. The concept has been around for years and has been marked by random surges in popularity, the most recent being just a few years ago when TV shows such as “Man Caves” began appearing. Although the purpose of a Man Cave has changed from its initial appearance hundreds of years ago, the basic concept remains the same: a place for men to go to escape the routine domesticities of everyday life. A Man Cave can be any room in the house – the garage, an attic or even an extra bedroom – designed and decorated to a man’s tastes, and can incorporate a specific theme such as sports, cars or guitars and other musical instruments. In some homes, the purpose of a Man Cave may be to provide some space to the man where he can relax and unwind and feel more at home in a house that often consists of female-driven décor and accessories. In other houses, a Man Cave might be a place where a sign is hung that states “No Girls Allowed,” or a place where he can hang out with his buddies and not feel like he needs to impress anyone. Studies have shown that when a man has a place to call his own within the home, there is increased marital harmony and decreased marital stress. According to Dan Haeck, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker
Real Estate Services, the man cave continues to be a popular trend. “In a recent survey I did on my Realtor page on Facebook, the typical mancave with a bar, home theatre, and pool table is still very popular,” he said. “The other notable feature I am getting a lot of requests for are the Craftsman style homes with large front porches.” Because these rooms are designed to meet each man’s own personal taste, every Man Cave is different. He may choose to stock his room with nice furniture, a big screen television, a bar or even game accessories such as a pool table, pinball machine, or dart board. Other popular must-haves are billiard lights over the pool table and a free-standing beer tap in place of a fully stocked bar. If price is no object, the man may want to get the best of everything – from quality made bar stools and bar to the finest glassware. He may even choose to adorn the walls with various video games or hang guitars. He can display his team spirit by hanging wall decals of his favorite team’s logo throughout the room, or even on the pool table, a set of cues, or glassware. In addition, he can buy pillows, rugs, lamps and other furniture to match, making his Man Cave the perfect place to watch the game. Any room, no matter the size or shape, can be transformed into the Man Cave of his dreams. All it takes is a bit of thought and creativity… and maybe a favorite football game.
Exploring the Man Cave
By Heather Holtschlag
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Although the purpose of a Man Cave has changed from its initial appearance hundreds of years ago, the basic concept remains the same: a place for men to go to escape the routine domesticities of everyday life. West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
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“Creating a home with the lifestyles of the clients in mind gives home buyers not just a house, but a vacation, making every turn into the driveway a peaceful retreat from the world” – Jeff Costa
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www.cardellolighting.com 724.745.1541 / 724.742.9777
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osta Homebuilders is a fourth generation, family-owned construction company based in Pittsburgh, PA. At Costa Homebuilders, our goal is simple: Provide 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.
Elegance Mastered
www.belskyltd@comcast.net 412.670.3471 / 412.760.9131 Adam Joe
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Legendary Quality
Positive feedback and customer referrals have helped Costa Homebuilders achieve its solid reputation. We have built our reputation by making the process as worry-free as possible, and by using only the finest quality materials and craftsmanship.
Personal Design
Showroom: 600 Hayden Boulevard (Rt. 51), Elizabeth, PA 15037
www.CostaHomebuilders.com
Timeless Beauty
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412.849.8225 www.pella.com West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com Matt Guido – 724.448.5876
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Are You Prepared for a W
hile many homeowners assume otherwise, their insurance policies do not cover a sewer backup. However, there is separate coverage available. In comparison with the cost of dealing with the aftermath of a sewer backup, coverage is a true bargain. Homeowners are responsible for repairing and maintaining the portio n of pipeline that connects their home with their city's sanitary sewer main. Since this pipeline is actually owned by the homeowner, any parts of it that extend into the public right of way or street are also included. Working on these pipes is a costly chore, so it is important for all homeowners to know how sewer backups are caused. The following three types of blockages are the most common causes of backups. Trees thrive on water, so their roots often gravitate toward cracks in sewer lines. While the growth starts with a few tiny roots penetrating the pipe, they eventually get thicker and expand. They often enter pipelines near the joints, which results in major blockages. Unfortunately, tree roots can eventually span the entire length of the pipe and cause a complete clog. If trees owned by the city are suspected of causing problems, contact their cleanup department immediately. They will often sample the roots to determine who is responsible for cleanup. In some situations, a combination of city trees and privately owned trees are to blame. When this happens, the city and the property owner must split the cost of cleanup and repairs. If a sanitary sewer or storm sewer is unable to contain the amount of rain falling, a backup may occur. Water typically enters the home through washtubs, toilets or sump wells in the basement. While damage is most
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
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Backup?
common in the basement, it may occur anywhere in the home. To help avoid this problem, make sure there is a sump pump to drain the water and a generator that will run the pump if the power goes out. Several types of blockages are possible in the sanitary main. Blockages result in sewage backing up into the home itself. Fortunately, this occurrence is gradual, so there is time to call a plumber before the house is overtaken with sewage. In some cases, there may be a rapid flow of water coming in through the basement. When this happens, it is important to call the cit y's public works office immediately. Each of these events can be very costly. Sewage and standing water can also be hazardous to human health. In addition to this, they destroy nearly every tangible object they meet in a home. A simple calculation of the cost of replacing damaged items and comparing it to the cost of insurance is enough to clarify the importance of adequate coverage. To learn how to obt ain protection from sewer backups, discuss available options with an agent today.
t’s no secret that this is the time of year when more and more “for sale” signs start to dot neighborhood streets. Whether you are planning to buy or sell a home, build a new one or renovate a century-old one, upsize or downsize, chances are you will be looking for a real estate agent to help guide you through the process. Choosing the right professional to represent you is an important decision, one that could end up saving you money or adding to your bottom line. You need a seasoned professional to best represent your interests. But, when it comes to selecting an agent, one should realize that not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) website explains that: “The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of NAR and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.” The organization is the nation’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members—including NAR’s institutes, societies and councils—involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. This is an important consideration when choosing an agent, whether you are a buyer or a seller. No matter which side of the real estate transaction you find yourself on, an agent can ensure that your interests are best represented. “There have been dramatic changes in what it takes to sell a home today,” said Millie Karolski, a Realtor with Howard Hanna Real Estate. “If they have been in their home for more than 10 years, sellers should talk to their Realtor® BEFORE they put the house on the market and take the time to understand how long the mortgage process takes now, how big of a factor the appraisal is and the use of Seller Assist in the current market.” “Sellers also often misunderstand Seller Assist and when an offer comes
in; emotions are often too high to try to explain the steep increase in buyer’s closing costs and the need for many of them to finance some of those costs,” said Crystal Alfonsi, also a Realtor with Howard Hanna. If you are planning to sell a property, a seller’s agent is obliged to get the best deal for the seller. He/she is permitted to give potential buyers only material facts about the listing. Loyalty is to the seller, not the potential buyer. On the other hand, if you find yourself in the market for a new home, a buyer’s agent is obligated to secure the best deal possible for the buyer. He/she is permitted to pass on any information obtained about the property or seller to his/her buying client. “Every buyer and seller, just as every real estate agent, is different,” said Brandon Renzi, a broker with B.C. Artman & Co. “So, it is wise to choose a realtor who is not only loyal, dedicated to their career, and trustworthy, but is also someone who listens to your needs, has a great work ethic, and interacts well with you.” According to the website Realtor.com, the following are some questions you should ask during your selection process when interviewing potential agents: Are you a REALTOR®? Does the agent have an active real estate license in good standing? To find this information, you can check with your state’s governing agency. Does the agent belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and/or a reliable online home buyer’s search service? Multiple Listing Services are cooperative information networks of REALTORS® that provide descriptions of most of the houses for sale in a particular region. Is real estate the person’s full-time career? What real estate designations does the agent hold? Which party is he or she representing: you or the seller? This discussion is supposed to occur early on, at “first serious contact” with you. The agent should discuss your state’s particular definitions of agency, so you’ll know where you stand. In exchange for your commitment, how will the agent help you accomplish your goals? Show you homes that meet your requirements and provide you with a list of the properties he or she is showing you? “Licensed Real Estate Agents have taken real estate courses and have passed a licensing exam and the vast majority truly works in this profession to serve and advocate for their clients,” said Ann Allsopp of Northwood Realty Services. “Understand where the agent practices most of their business,” said Karena Allsopp, also of Northwood Realty Services. “Just because an agent office is in one location, it does not mean that that is theironly area of practice or knowledge.” And Joann Cusumano Sciulli, AAI of Cusumano Insurance Agency, advises that no matter where you move, be sure you are properly insured. “Moving from a home into a condo, apartment or townhouse may change the type of homeowners insurance policy you need,” she said. “Make certain to inquire with the homeowners association of your new residences to find out about the insurance requirements.”
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UPMC TODAY Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012
Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.
What’s Inside 2
Bringing Mother and Child Together
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Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins
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Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss When Wounds Won’t Heal
Bringing Mother and Child Together UPMC Mercy’s newborn nursery programs foster bonding between mothers and their infants.
The bond between a mother and child is a wonder to behold. At UPMC Mercy, new mothers — and dads, too — can depend on a team of health care professionals to guide them through the process of bonding with and caring for their newborns.
The benefits of breastfeeding UPMC Mercy has three certified lactation specialists on staff, including a neonatal nurse practitioner, who provide in-hospital and outpatient support to mothers. “We see every woman who plans to nurse immediately after delivery, since breastfeeding begins within the first hour after birth,” explains UPMC Mercy lactation specialist Sarah Krivonik, RN. “Whether you’re a firsttime mother or have breastfed before, every baby is different. We help mothers identify the best solutions for their circumstances — whether it’s how to handle triplets or care for a pre-term baby who can’t breastfeed right away.” More and more women are discovering the health benefits of breastfeeding. Often described as “liquid gold,” a mother’s milk is filled with rich nutrients and vitamins. “Newborns who breastfeed have a greater resistance to infection and allergies, fewer ear infections, and are less likely to experience childhood obesity,” says UPMC Mercy’s Cheryl DiNardo, CRNP, a neonatal nurse practitioner and certified lactation specialist. “For mothers, breastfeeding promotes faster weight loss, less bleeding, and reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer.”
Promoting snuggling with a purpose “Every year, we welcome more than 1,700 babies into the world,” says Chris D’Amico, CRNP, UPMC Mercy’s obstetrics/ gynecology administrator. “A big part of our mission is to bring families together during those critical early days through one-on-one support.”
Practicing togetherness After giving birth, mothers can have their newborns at their bedside in one of UPMC Mercy’s private postpartum rooms. “With our in-room option, a mother can learn her baby’s responses and cues for feeding,” says Lora Mastracci, MSN, interim unit director for UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). “This experience allows fathers to be involved from the beginning, from helping with baths and diaper changes, to comforting and holding the baby.” In-room care also gives nursing staff the opportunity to get to know mothers and their needs in greater detail, and connect them to important community resources on their return home.
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“Physical contact is an essential part of the bonding process,” says Diane Bear, RN, a lactation consultant with UPMC Mercy’s Women’s Health Services. “We work closely with mothers and fathers to encourage early and ongoing skin-to-skin contact with their babies.” Using a technique called “kangaroo care,” babies are held in an upright position on their parent’s bare chest (much like a kangaroo carries its young). It is especially beneficial for premature babies, and it’s also believed to help stimulate milk production for mothers who are breastfeeding. To learn more about these and other programs offered by UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Services, visit UPMCMercy.com.
Exhausted and Sleepy? At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, doctors can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, often with surprisingly fast results.
Overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes, and an irregular heartbeat, Robert Guthrie underwent a sleep study at UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center to evaluate his pulmonary function and suitability for gastric bypass surgery. He was shocked to discover he had sleep apnea so severe he actually stopped breathing 147 times per hour. Affecting 12 million Americans, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems and lead to deadly accidents due to exhaustion. “I was totally clueless. It was serendipity that took me to a sleep expert, and it probably saved my life,” says Robert, 65, who immediately began using a nighttime breathing apparatus known as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Within a week, he was sleeping soundly for the first time in six years. “It was life changing,” says the Hopwood, Pa., resident. “I feel 20 years younger.” Most people don’t know they have obstructive sleep apnea, usually caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly. With each interruption, the drop in oxygen levels prompts the brain to send a surge of adrenaline to kick-start breathing, which also leads to a spike in blood pressure. “This can happen 600 times a night. It’s a burden on the cardiovascular system and affects the quality of sleep,” says Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, medical director of the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center. According to Dr. Strollo, if you snore loudly, wake up exhausted despite a “good night’s sleep,” or feel tired or sleepy during the day, you should talk to your primary care physician. Since sleep apnea cannot be detected while you’re awake, your doctor may ask you to participate in an overnight sleep study.
At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, patients stay in a private bedroom where a sleep technician applies sensors that measure breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other body functions during sleep. A team of specialists diagnose sleep apnea by looking at the test results and reviewing medical history. Treatment options may include a CPAP machine like Robert uses, which blows air through a special mask worn over the nose. “I wasn’t wild about wearing the mask. But staying on it was a no-brainer — it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep,” says Robert. For information about the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, visit UPMC.com and click Our Services for an alphabetical listing of departments and services.
Other health consequences of sleep apnea According to Ryan Soose, MD, an otolaryngologist and sleep medicine specialist at UPMC Mercy, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, weight gain, memory problems, and daytime sleepiness. “Loud snoring is a very common feature of sleep apnea and often the most bothersome symptom for patients and other family members,” notes Dr. Soose. “Successful treatment of snoring and sleep apnea can improve quality of life as well as reduce health risks. A variety of medical and surgical treatment options are available, and the treatment plan can be customized to each individual patient.” For more information about UPMC Mercy’s sleep services or to schedule a sleep study, call UPMC Mercy Sleep Center at 412-232-7409.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Pamper the Skin You’re In Your skin is a multitasking marvel. Soft, pliable, and strong, it protects your organs, regulates body temperature, detects and fights off infection, and even repairs itself. But most of us take our hard-working skin for granted. A little TLC will help keep it healthy and looking good from the inside out.
Keep it clean Daily cleansing can take a toll on your skin, so be gentle. Take shorter baths or showers using warm water, choose a mild cleanser, pat or blot skin dry, and apply a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.
Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins They’re more common — and easier to treat — than you think. They can be tiny or bulging, painless or throbbing. But nearly half of us can expect to get spider or varicose veins, especially after age 50. “The good news is that many techniques now make vein treatments more safe, comfortable, and effective,” says Ellen D. Dillavou, MD, a vascular surgeon at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.
Eat, drink, and be healthy Feed your skin from the inside for a healthy glow on the outside. Experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water keeps skin hydrated.
Get moving Regular exercise promotes circulation that energizes skin cells and carries away waste products. It also promotes the restful sleep that’s needed to rejuvenate skin.
Be sun smart Small amounts of daily sun exposure add up, so protect skin from the sun’s rays whenever you’re outdoors — even in wintertime. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and apply it liberally and often. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants provide even more protection.
Check it out Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands. Mohs micrographic surgery has proven to be an effective treatment for most skin cancers. This type of surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used to remove skin cancer on the face. Regularly checking your own skin can help find cancers early, when they are easier to treat. You’ll find the American Cancer Society’s skin self-examination guide and other sun safety tips at cancer.org.
Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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What new treatments are available? Among the newest is the injection of polidocanol for the treatment of spider veins. “It’s a cosmetic procedure that works much better than saline to collapse surface veins,” says Dr. Dillavou. “Spider veins do reoccur, though, so expect to do ‘touch ups’ periodically.” Injections also are used for larger veins and may replace older procedures like a “vein stripping.” For treating varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation (a minimally invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy seals the vein closed) is a popular treatment among her patients, says Dr. Dillavou, “because it’s comfortable and effective.”
Are varicose veins dangerous? “Varicose and spider veins typically don’t pose a health risk, but they can point to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI),” says Gus Abu-Hamad, MD, a vascular surgeon at UPMC Mercy. “It’s a visual cue that blood may not be optimally flowing to and from the feet and legs to the heart, which can lead to more serious problems.” Other CVI symptoms include painful, tired, restless, achy, itchy, or swollen legs or ankles. In more advanced cases, skin changes and ulcers can develop. “The problem becomes more difficult to treat as it advances, so it’s important to always share your symptoms with your doctor,” says Dr. Abu-Hamad. To learn more about all the vascular services at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com.
You ourr Health Car Care e Goes Mobile It’s It’s no now w eas easy y tto o manage y your our medical rrecords ecords or get aut automatic omatic ac access cess tto o select ttest est results results — because HealthT HealthTrak rak has an app for for that. that.
Need to keep track of your elderly parents’ appointments and test results? Want instant access to your children’s immunization records? Run out of medicine while traveling and need a refill? Have a follow-up question for your doctor after office hours? All are available with a click of your mouse — and most with a tap on your iPhone®, iPad®, or Android™ — via UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that allows patients, and approved family members, to receive and manage information about their health. Recent upgrades include a new mobile HealthTrak application that provides patients with secure access anytime and anywhere.
HealthTrak also provides patients with automatic access to HealthTr certain test results, including x-rays, lab, and pathology tests, with links they can use to help interpret information. This makes it easier for patients to keep track of their cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, and other important health numbers. UPMC hopes to add cardiology test results in the near future. Also on the horizon are plans to use photos to identify some skin conditions or diseases.
“We’re giving people what they want — even when they’re on the go. It’s a convenient, safe, and free way to manage their own health,” says G. Daniel Martich, MD, UPMC chief medical information officer.
Going mobile is ffast ast and eas easyy To access HealthTr HealthTrak data using a mobile device, you must first secure a HealthTr HealthTrak account through UPMCHealthT MCHealthTrrak.com. You should then download the free “MyChart app” from the App Store, iTunes Store, or Google Play (formerly Android Market). The mobile app provides access to everything except eVisits, or online doctor visits. According to Dr. Martich, more than 100,000 patients have signed up for HealthTr HealthTrak — and nearly 6,000 are mobile app users. Online medical care is seen as the wave of the future. The number of HealthTrak users is expected to increase dramatically once word spreads about its overall convenience and newest features — including access for authorized family members.
More More patient patient-centered -centered solutions HealthTrak gives users immediate access to a wide range of personal medical information, which allows them to take a more active role in managing their health.
Sign up ttoday! oday!
Adults juggling the health care of their children and aging parents can use the “proxy access” feature to keep track of health records and appointments, refill prescriptions, communicate with doctors, and ask billing questions.
Easy, dir Easy, direct ect signup for for HealthTrak HealthTrak is available HealthTr available online byy g b going oing to to UP UPMCHealthTrak.com MCHealthTrrak.com and clicking MCHealthT now” New User.. FFollow steps eps to to “Sign up no w” under Ne w User ollow the st ccomplete answer personal omplete an online application and ans wer personal ensuree that yyou, questions designed tto o ensur ou, and not person, creating account. another per son, are are cr eating the ac count.
Parents will especially appreciate having instant access to a child’s immunization record when they need it. Approved caregivers find eVisit, the online doctor visit service, very useful for the diagnosis of common, non-urgent ailments in their elderly relatives.
you have If you have difficulties, email healthtrak@upmc.edu healthtrak@upmc.edu UPMC Support Line at or call the UP MC HealthTrak HealthTrak Support HealthTr 1-866-884-8579. 1-866-884-85 79.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Talent + Imagination + Learning =
Events You Won’t Want to Miss UPMC Senior Communities’ year-long calendar of entertainment, movies, and educational seminars aims to enrich the lives of seniors — and delight the public, too.
What do Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, a Meryl Streep movie, and acupuncture have in common? All are among UPMC Senior Communities’ upcoming 2012 Legacy Lineup. “We’re committed to providing residents at all our senior communities with activities that will capture their interests, generate conversation, and stimulate their minds,” says Nanci Case, vice president for sales, marketing, and activities for UPMC Senior Communities. “Through The Legacy Lineup and other programs, we’re bringing seniors — and people of all ages — together to relax, laugh, and learn together.” Open to the public, The Legacy Lineup programs are offered at UPMC Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Senior Communities’ independent living facility located on the UPMC Passavant campus. “You can attend a Legacy Lineup event every week of the month, with many events offered at no charge,” says Greta Ceranic, marketing director for Cumberland Woods Village. The Legacy Theatre is part of a state-of-the-art conference center and 247-seat amphitheatre funded through a generous $16.5 million grant by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. One of the Foundation’s primary goals is public education and outreach. UPMC physicians, nurses, and other medical staff members also use the facility for professional development training. “And funds raised through The Legacy Lineup support UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund,” adds Ms. Case, “providing financial assistance and other support services to residents in need at all 17 UPMC retirement communities.”
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Productions showcase local and national talent “Each month, The Legacy Lineup features at least one major production featuring a band, soloist, or performance troupe,” says Ms. Ceranic. “Earlier this year, the Tamburitzans appeared to a sell-out crowd. Later this year, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand impersonators will perform with a full orchestra.” The 2012 lineup also includes the Jaggerz and the Fabulous Hubcaps, as well as a major holiday production in December. Because seating is limited, advance tickets are recommended. Group discounts and ticket packages are available.
Spend Mondays at the movies From cinematic classics like Citizen Kane to recent blockbusters like Iron Lady with Meryl Streep, seniors can enjoy free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Legacy Theatre.
Explore your interests at learning seminars On alternating Tuesdays at 11 a.m., The Legacy Lineup offers educational programming that covers a wide range of subjects, from tips on aging, caregiver support, health and nutrition, history, and local topics of interest. The seminars are free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested. For the full 2012 calendar of activities, or to make reservations, call 412-635-8080 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com.
To learn about the independent living, personal care, assisted living, and skilled nursing options offered by UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800-324-5523 to schedule a tour. Locations include Allison Park, Cranberry, Fox Chapel, Greensburg, Lawrenceville, McCandless, Monroeville, Penn Hills, Scott Township, and Washington, Pa.
When Wounds Won’t Heal If you’re at risk, a simple cut or blister can quickly escalate into a major health problem.
Simple blisters, calluses, cuts, and scrapes usually heal quickly. But some wounds can take months to heal — posing a major health threat requiring special treatment to avoid serious infection, amputation, and even death. Dane Wukich, MD, an orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon, and medical director of UPMC Wound Healing Services at UPMC Mercy, says chronic wounds are often ignored. “We see 3,000 new cases each year of serious, non-healing wounds that can become life-threatening and possibly lead to amputations,” says Dr. Wukich. “Within 24 hours, a simple callous can turn deadly.”
“Individuals with neuropathy are at risk. They get a callous or blister and walk on it all day, not realizing they have a wound until they see blood on their sock,” says Dr. Wukich. “Once a wound occurs, their risk of infection goes up significantly. And once they have an infection, the risk of amputation increases astronomically.” Poor circulation due to diabetes or vascular disease also slows healing, he explains. Patients who are bedridden or confined to a wheelchair are at risk of developing pressure wounds from lying or sitting in one position too long.
Prevention and treatment Preventing wounds and complications is key, says Dr. Wukich. “Patients with non-healing wounds have a worse survival rate than patients with breast cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. That’s how serious it is,” he says bluntly. Lowering and controlling sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can improve circulation and reduce complications. Checking daily for wounds and acting quickly to treat and heal ulcers can reduce the risk of severe infection and amputation. For a wound to heal properly, it must be kept clean. Dead tissue must be removed through a weekly cleaning to prevent the spread of infection. In addition, skin around a wound must be kept moist, and doctors may prescribe walking boots and casts to reduce direct weight on the wound.
Are you at risk? People with diabetes and vascular disease are especially vulnerable to slow healing and chronic wounds. Diabetic patients often have neuropathy, which causes them to lose sensation in their feet. Because they don’t feel pain, sores go unnoticed and can become ulcerated.
At UPMC Mercy, a multidisciplinary team of infectious disease physicians and orthopaedic, vascular, and plastic surgeons work together to treat wounds and help prevent amputations. Advanced wound therapy may include the use of regenerative skin products, vascular, plastic, or reconstructive foot surgery. Amputation is used as a last resort to save a life, says Dr. Wukich. For more information about UPMC Mercy’s Wound Healing Services, visit UPMC.com/MercyWoundHealing.
Foot Care Tips If you have diabetes or vascular disease, inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, redness, swelling, or foul odor. If you can’t bend over, use a plastic mirror to check the bottoms of your feet, or ask a family member to help. Make sure your doctor inspects your feet at every visit.
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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 information 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.
INSIDE
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
West Jefferson Hills School District
Message from THE SUPERINTENDENT As the school year draws to a close there is much to celebrate in the West Jefferson Hills School District. All our schools - Thomas Jefferson High School, Pleasant Hills Middle School, Gill Hall Elementary, Jefferson Elementary and McClellan Elementary achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) based on PSSA scores. My administrative team’s commitment to serve the Mission of our school district remains our p rimary focus. This focus has enabled us to balance a quality education in our schools with sound fiscal practice. I am very proud that the 2012 -2013 proposed final budget will not increase the property tax rate and the millage rate will remain at 21.08 mills. This is the fifth year in a row that our school district has not increased any taxes and we celebrate that. I would also like to recognize the West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors for enabling the district to maintain this fiscal jurisprudence as public education continues to be challenged by the lack of adequate funding for education, the reduction of flourishing academic programs and unfunded mandates. The school district embraced a new logo at the start of my tenure. I thank the students and faculty who designed the logo ; as well as students, parents, and community members who participated in a democratic voting process to launch a new face/logo for the school district. It is my belief that those “Jaguar Eyes” will always watch over us. The district set three major goals for the 2011-2012 school year: The first goal – a district-wide written curriculum that has progressed well, thanks to the collaborative efforts of all teachers and building principals. This process will continue to be reviewed with the state adopting common core standards for next year and the staff will align our curriculum with the new standards. I thank everyone for their collaboration and engagement with this process. The second goal - providing optimal learning environments at all elementary schools will entail welcoming new students into the McClellan
Elementary family. While change can be difficult it is also new and exciting and I would like to reassure all families involved that my team is always on call to assist them. This was an extensive goal that involved all stake holders - parents, community members, administration and staff. Upon reviewing this goal a long term vision has been the development of a Facilities Master Plan that the district has already commenced. The plan will review existing facilities and determine capacity in our schools to meet future growth in the school district. The third goal - review a formal Bullying Prevention Program. My team has selected the OLWEUS Bullying Prevention Program to be introduced the second semester of the next school year. While our schools have had various “respect”, “pride”, positive behavior reinforcement initiatives in place we have selected this district-wide program to coordinate our efforts with a sound research-based bullying prevention program. This will again involve coordinated input from stake holders – teachers, staff, administration, students, parents and community members - to serve on the Bullying Prevention Coordinating Committee. More details will follow throughout the first se mester of the next school year. Finally, as poet Alfred Lord Tennyson eloquently said, “The old order changeth yielding place to the new.” We wish our graduating seniors and retiring faculty and staff best wishes as they begin a new chapter in their lives. To the incoming kindergarten students, students moving to the sixth grade at the middle school and incoming freshman to the high school, we celebrate another transition in your journey and we look forward to a wonderful year ahead. Thank you for your continued support of the West Jefferson Hills School District, Hamsini Rajgopal Acting Superintendent West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
– Class Motto: “The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do.” Walter Bagehot May the memories of your days at Thomas Jefferson High School hold a special place in your heart when you find yourself, several years from now, reflecting on those bygone times at TJ. As each of you are about to begin this uncharted phase of your journey, know that
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we will be eagerly awaiting your return. We would like to thank you for your outstanding leadership, your infinite e nthusiasm and your remarkable achievements. We wish you the very best Thomas Jefferson High School Class of 2012.
Christian Ackman Lindsey Marie Adams Kelcee Lynn Aldridge O. Thomas Alwi Joshua James Ambrose Lauren Andros Alanna Marie Angotti
will be attending Temple University will be attending Community College of Allegheny County
will be attending Robert Morris University will be attending West Virginia University will be attending Clarion University of Pennsylvania Serena Audley will be attending Allegheny College Cassandra Victoria Augustine will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Behrend Campus Teja Badami will be attending Case Western Reserve University Haley Christine Baker will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Jocelyn Nicole Baker Eric Banas will be attending Duquesne University Liam Connor Barrett will be attending James Madison University Matthew Carl Bartosch will be attending Robert Morris University will be attending Drexel University Nicole Catherine Benack Jeff Bilski will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Daria E. Bisbey will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Behrend Campus Jordan Blasko will be attending Pittsburgh Technical Institute Ryan Bobich will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania John A. I. Bonacchi will be attending Saint Vincent College Amanda Lynn Brennan will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Altoona Campus McCall Madison Brooks will be attending the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Michael John Brown will be attending Community College of
Allegheny County will be attending the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design Kayla Dawn Burris will be attending Pittsburgh Technical Institute Anna Bailey Campbell will be attending West Virginia Wesleyan Christine Theresa Canovali will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Fabian Carrazana will be attending LaRoche College Nikki Marie Check will be attending Ohio University Gabrielle Marie Cifaldi will be attending Mercyhurst University Kylee Dae Cigana will be attending Robert Morris University Nicole Cmar Christopher D. Comer Katie Bridget Conboy will be attending the University of New Hampshire will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Rebecca Marie Coopie Main Campus Jeremy S. Core will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Justin Core will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Brendan John Cox will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Levi J. Cox Garrett Richard Cronauer Ashley Elizabeth Cusick will be attending Gannon University will be attending Gannon University Shannon Lynn Cusick Alexandrea Noel Dalton will be attending Duquesne University Erin Lynn Dansevicus will be attending Slippery Rock University Matthew M. Davis Paris Lamont Davis will be attending Notre Dame of Ohio Jonathan Paul DeFazio will be attending the Franciscan University of Steubenville Mikayla Brown
West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Robert Kenneth Deliman Kaitlynn Richelle Dempsey Dean Anthony DeSantis Jr.
will be attending Robert Morris University
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh ~Johnstown Campus Dylan James Devine will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Domenic Angelo DiMarco will be attending California University of Pennsylvania Claire Elizabeth Dobransky will be attending Grove City College Megan Irene Dodds will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Seth C. Donikowski will be attending Rogers State University Stephen Joseph D'Orazio will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Mariah Dowdy Ben Drnach will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Kurtis A. Drusbasky will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Jacob Ryan Dunmire Jorge R. Eber Korey Edmonson will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Michael C. Eismont Johnstown Campus Julia Beth Ejzak will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Lucas J. Evans John David Farrell Gunner J. Fife Chelsea Nicole Fillippa will be attending Allegheny College Kristen Elizabeth Fouts will be attending Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania Nicholas Daniel Franczak will be attending California University of Pennsylvania Alyssa Leigh Frankenfield will be attending Kent State University Taylor Wray Frye will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
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Brandon Scott Geletko Aubrey Faith Giuffre Mikayla Gowaty Roy Grant Benjamin J. Grassi Daniel Gray Darian Greb Samuel Franklin Green Frank Rylan Greer Dustyn Dauphin Gregory Eric Jay Gress Luke J. Griffo Brennan David Grimes Bethany Julia Heide Rachel Marie Hill Carson Hines Isac A. Ielase Sarah Ihrig Devon J. Inks Evan W. Johnson Patrick Johnson Madeleine Rae Jones Louis S. Kampert Amanda S. Kimmick Sarah K. Knizat Connor L. Kooyers
will be attending the Pittsburgh Technical Institute will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Behrend Campus will be attending the University of Tampa will be enlisting in the United States Marine Corps will be attending Saint Vincent College will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending the Antonelli Institute of Art and Photography will be attending a Technical School will be attending the University of Phoenix will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending the University of Findlay will be attending Westminster University will be attending Kent State University
will be attending Community College of Allegheny County
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus
will be attending Washington and Jefferson College will be attending Eastern Michigan University
Kendra N. Kozel Nicole Mary Krieger Joshua M. Kuzman Ryan A. LaBarbera Taylor F. Lawrence Chad Lehigh Marissa Lynn Leppla Keegan Liebert Natalie G. Liebold Edith Lloyd-Etuwewe Corey L. Lostetter Elizabeth M. Lowman Jordan A. Lysinger Michael Mack Kevin M. Madar Cody J. Maimone Adam Majsak Samantha A. Mance Connor M. Marshman Tyler M. Martier Carrie L. Martin Danielle B. Mason
will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ University Park will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus will be attending Kent State University will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Bradford Campus will be attending Fairleigh Dickinson University will be attending Dickinson College will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Greater Allegheny Campus
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus will be attending Clarion University of Pennsylvania will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Altoona Campus
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus Kyle Matthew McCollum will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania Taylor Rene McConnell will be attending Bethany College David Thomas McDermott will be attending Texas A&M University Kate Rebecca McIlwain will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania Gregory Curtis Alan McIntyre will be attending Robert Morris University Austin N. Michalik will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania Kyle Thomas Miller will be attending Liberty University Madeline Scott Miscavage will be attending Eastern University Mark Daniel Moczydlowski Lindsay Ann Montanari will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Thomas Alan Mordecki Jr. will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Altoona Campus Julia Marie Morocco will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Jared John Muehlbauer will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Christina Mulenga will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania Cassandra A. Nadzam will be attending LaRoche College Santino Napolitano Bruno Michael Natter will be attending Mercyhurst University Rachel David Nepomuceno will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus Victoria N. Newman Grant W. Newton will be attending California University of Pennsylvania Jennifer W. Ngugi will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Hung Nguyen will be attending Community College of Allegheny County Emily Rose McClymonds
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Maggie Addell Norton Nicholas D. O'Black Kristianna Marie O'Brien Quinten James O'Dea Brandon Scott Oskin Anthony J. Pack III Jennifer M. Palyo Joshua A. Pershing Cheyenne A. Pettiford Anthony J. Piccioni Adam G. Plavchak Tyler J. Podomik Haley Ponsonby Megan Lee Potts Dominic Presto Nicholas V. Raimondi Kimberly A. Ransom Tara R. Rathgeber Alex J. Reber Zachary Kent Reigel Lauren M. Reis Briana Nicole Reynolds Hayley K. Richard Trevor Jay Richardson Ebani L. Rivers
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will be attending Washington and Jefferson College will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Community College of Allegheny County
Sandy P. Rodeheaver Allison J. Rothey Ryan T. Ruffing Sean G. Saputo Arionna P. Sardon Madeline C. Savage Erin C. Scanlon
will be attending the Rosedale Technical Institute will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ University Park will be attending Ohio University will be attending Robert Morris University
Gregory M. Schneider Peter J. Schoemer Matthew Paul Schulter Kristen Michelle Schwalm Nathan R. Schwartz
will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ University Park will be attending Carlow University will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus will be attending Slippery Rock University will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Behrend Campus will be attending West Virginia University will be attending California University of Pennsylvania
Krystal Brielle Sestito Melissa Ann Severns Jonathon C. Shaffer Joseph P. Shaffer Shannon C. Shaffer Aditi R. Shah Stephen K. Shelpman Andrew Hunter Shidel Sadie Marie Shoaf Keegan Tyler Shudy Alex Michael Silvio Nicholas R. Smithyman Ivy Anastasia Snyder
will be attending Thiel College will be attending West Virginia Wesleyan will be attending Washington and Jefferson College will be attending Waynesburg University will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus will be attending Edinboro University of Pennsylvania will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Drexel University will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ Altoona Campus will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Seton Hill University will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending Robert Morris University will be attending Drexel University will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending Allegheny College will be attending Community College of Allegheny County
Rich Sofranko Nicole Alexis Solo Brie Ann Babs Stoffel Grant Stoner Joseph Anthony Strinic III Rachel Heywood Suppok Tamara Lynn Sutton April Marie Swallow Michael James Szemanski Rebecca Dee Tarczy Matthew Joseph Tobolski Tyler Michael Toboz Ashley Rhodes Trimnal Nadia Gabriel Tutro Deanna Marie Ulbrich Elizabeth Ann Urbaniak Brian M. VanWormer Andrew M. Vasko Jonathan Churchill Veres Caitlin E. Voland Paige A. Wagner Cody E. Wain Robert J. Wallace William A. Wallace Michael J. Wardlaw
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Greensburg Campus will be attending Carlow University will be attending Slippery Rock University will be attending Duquesne University will be attending Pennsylvania State University~ University Park will be attending Dickinson College
Lindsay Ellen Warhola
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Greensburg Campus will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Shane A. Wilson
will be attending Bethany College will be attending Community College of Allegheny County
Kyrstin E. Yancura Antoinette M. Yelenic Dennis James Yerkey
will be attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending California University of Pennsylvania
Jacob R. Youkers
will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Johnstown Campus
Beth A. Weeks Brandon M. Weisbrod Marley Deann Westwood Lynnae K. White
Justin T. Withers Amanda M. Wrobleski Rebecca M. Wytiaz
Charles Kennedy Ziese Zachary A. Zimmer
will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending California University of Pennsylvania will be attending Robert Morris University will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be attending Saint Vincent College will be attending the University of Pittsburgh~ Main Campus will be attending West Virginia University will be attending Community College of Allegheny County will be enlisted in the United States Army ~ National Guard will be attending Kent State University
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Celebration of Education The West Jefferson Hills School District’s Annual Recognition and Celebration of Education in Our Classrooms, and the presentation of the 2011-2012 Pennsylvania Progress Awards took place at the April School Board Meeting. The District was honored to have Presidents, principals, athletes, actors, teachers, musicians, Academic Scholars, Titanic Historians, student leaders and technology protégés in attendance. Thomas Jefferson High School was represented by student athletes, Academic League Scholars, and our talented theater arts students, who shared their insightful views regarding the vast educational opportunities provided our high school students, highlighting our District’s long-established commitment to the Arts. Pleasant Hills Middle School was represented by their faculty and seventh grade students who shared their academic experience researching the Titanic and its Fateful Maiden Voyage. Students representing Gill Hall Elementary, Jefferson Elementary and McClellan Elementary jointly shared the stage, highlighting the corresponding district wide elementary curriculum, lasting friendships, kindness, admiration and reciprocated respect. Kudos to: Timothy Haselhoff, Principal, Thomas Jefferson High School Dan Como, Principal, Pleasant Hills Middle School Tina Mayer, Principal, Gill Hall Elementary Denny Peterson, Principal, Jefferson Elementary And Justin Liberatore, Principal, McClellan Elementary for their dedication to education and their commitment to our students, parents, and community residents. The Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Association of Federal Program Coordinators present the Keystone Achievement Awards as a public recognition of the dedication and commitment of Pennsylvania educators and students to the shared goal that all students achieve proficiency. Congratulations to the West Jefferson Hills School District for receiving the 2011-2012 Keystone Achievement Awards. District administrators and faculty from Thomas Jefferson High School, Pleasant Hills Middle School, Gill Hall Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, and McClellan Elementary were each presented the Achievement Award at the April 2012 School Board Meeting. Students in the West Jefferson Hills School District have once again exceeded the mathematic and reading standards required by the federal No Child Left Behind Act.
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• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
BBQ The Thomas Jefferson High School parent organization, TJ Connections once again sponsored the Annual TJHS Lunchtime Barbeque. The smell of grilled hot dogs and hamburgers permeated the air, as the students mingled with friends and enjoyed the annual outdoor lunch-time happening.
Congratulations to Sandy Barker, Julie Lucci, Megan Curley, Jim Mirabella, Michele Stoicovy, Genna Freund, Ron Gmys, Dottie Kutscher and the Cast, Technical Crew, Costume Stylists and Orchestra of Thomas Jefferson High School for their exhilarating performance of Willy Wonka. The talent of TJ’s aspiring actors, who showcased their musical talent and dancing finesse, once again “Brought Down the House.” The students also incorporated community service into their annual Spring Musical Production. They collected nonperishable food items, which filled four boxes, and more than $400 in monetary donations for the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank.
The Thomas Jefferson High School Annual “Starving for the Arts Festival, A Titanic Event: Keeping the Arts Afloat” under the direction of Julie Tipton, once again presented the amazing forte of our high school students. The Art Display, exhibited in a Gallery format, showcased the outstanding works of art, jewelry, ceramics, and photography created by our TJ art students. The theatrical performances, which included an original perspective, drama, skits, dancing, singing, Shakespeare and comedy emphasized our student performer’s array of extraordinary talent. The refreshments served during the Arts Festival was provided by Lindsey Moore and her Family and Consumer Science students.
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
How astonishing are the times in our life when a lasting friendship begins with a single, hand written letter. For members of the Thomas Jefferson High School Student Council, faculty moderator Lean Mizgalski, and the McClellan Elementary second grade students of Lisa Marcheleta, Jaclyn Jakubowski and Bethany Hirsh, this magical Pen Pal exchange took place throughout the school year. Upon receiving their first letters, all of the students involved in this endearing project began planning the speci al event when the high school students and the second graders would officially meet. The letters delivered to the second grade students were always delightfully decorated with a personalized message. “The Pen Pal Project” continues to provide the involved students a window into their future, the opportunity to look at their past, a reminder of simpler, more carefree times, the opportunity to connect wi th students on a different grade level, and the chance to be a positive role model to the promising young writers.” A picnic, held at the Thomas Jefferson High School Stadium Sports Complex, was the setting for the much anticipated, official meet. After lunch the Pals spent time together reading favorite books aloud, racing around the track or ducking the dodge ball. Throughout this afternoon event those of us in attendance witnessed the advent of a “lifelong friendship,” which began with a single, hand written letter.
Thomas Jefferson High School Future Business Leaders of America, have the potential, dedication and determination to become our future local business owners, entrepreneurs, accountants, CEOs and marketing executives. Their personal accomplishments will highlight their educational journey and ultimate career path. However, securing the ideal profession, involves resumes, cover letters and multiple person -to person interviews. Recognizing the importance of current business practices in an evolving business world, the West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce, Thomas Jefferson High School faculty Christine Bacola, Sherry Meucci and Lisa Selko as well as members of TJ’s FBLA, sponsored the Third Annual, “FBLA Takes the LEAD: Leadership, Education, Aspirations and Direction.” This Annual Career Event featured local business professionals who instructed the students on appropriate attire, the role of the receptionist, the benefit of researching a company, the impact of social media and personal credit scores and the role of business –to- business networking. The distinguished 42
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Presenters also conducted Mock Interviews, which provided the students a professional critique of their interviewing competence. The West Jefferson Hills School District would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce who also sponsored the Event Breakfast and to the following Business Leaders who volunteered their time, expertise and professional experience to provide this invaluable knowledge to our students: Judge Kim Eaton Hila Hritz, Human Resources Jefferson Regional Medical Center Dana Mariano, Patient Care Manager, Short Stay Jefferson Regional Medical Center B.J. Guinn, Human Resources Eastman Chemical Dr. William Edmonds. Dean of Admissions California University of Pennsylvania Attorney Tim Wojton Dr. Brenda Trettel, Dean of Academic Affairs Community College of Allegheny County, South Campus Justin Tatar, Director of Admissions, Community College of Allegheny County, South Campus
Jennifer Holbert, Employment Specialist, Community College of Allegheny County, South Campus Lori Bowers, Vice President of Organizational Development, dck Worldwide Krista Ramsey, Union Finley Messenger Ray Vogel, Director Carpenter’s Apprentice
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The following Pleasant Hills Middle School students were selected to receive the distinguished 2011-2012 Rotary Club Award. The student selection process began with a recommendation by the middle school faculty and administration. The prospective students are individually chosen to receive the Rotary Award, based upon their academic achievement, citizenship, active participation in extra -curricular activities, and involvement in community outreach. The annual Rotary Award is presented to two middle school students representing grades Six, Seven, and Eight.
The seventh grade students at Pleasant Hills Middle School celebrated their virtuosity during the middle school’s Tenth Annual Language Arts Poetry Coffeehouse. The middle school library’s transformation to a retro Coffeehouse, included a performing platform, decorated tables and assorted delicacies. The students’ original Poetry works, which were read aloud, ranged from comical topics to poignant ideals. This time-honored seventh grade tradition found our young writers eagerly snapping their fingers after each reading. Middle School faculty, Danna Corsini and Sarah Dugan coordinated and sponsored the annual Language Arts event for the budding seventh grade Poets.
A Limerick by Madisen Daily There once was a queen named Red, Who drank her tea and ate her bread. But one day she went crazy, And ate a white daisy. It seemed she was out of her head!
Congratulations to: Lauren Clark and Shawn Radovic The selected Sixth Grade Students Cole Lutz and Anna Fiedor The selected Seventh Grade Students Bailey Veith and Ricky Daley The selected Eighth Grade Students
Congratulations to the following Pleasant Hills Middle School Students who recently competed in the 2012 Middle School Computer Fair. The Computer Fair Competition required participating students to create a project and develop a professional display, which was ranked by a team of judges. Project Categories included Graphic Design, Webpage Design, Computer Programming, Digital Video, Logo Design and Animation. The Seventh Grade Middle School team of Jonan Seeley, Adam Briggs, and Dom Grmusa created an original Logo. In developing their Logo Design Project they utilized graphic editing software, a graphics tablet and significant creativity. Their Logo Design Placed First and was named the winner for the Pittsburgh region. Congratulations Jonan, Adam and Dom, who presented their winning Original Logo Design at the 2012 Pennsylvania State Computer Fair Competition. The winning Logo at the State Competition will be the deemed the official Logo of the 2013 Middle School Computer Fair.
Thomas Jefferson High School Science Department Chairman, Kathy Hannon along with members of the TJ Science Club organized the Ninth Annual “I Dig Science” Science Fair at McClellan Elementary. The event was made possible through the fundraising efforts of the members of the TJ Science Club, who worked the stadium concession stand during sporting events and sold Sarris Pretzels. The “Dinosaur Dig Theme” was evident upon entering the gymnasium, where students found various inflatable dinosaurs and their “Science Mentors” decked out in custom designed “Dino T-Shirts.” The Science Fair provided the elementary students an array of scientific knowledge meshed with fun. The mini-experiments, such as “The Dinosaur Dig, Stick Icky, Balloon Races, Mirror Mirror on the Wall, Rainbow Effect, Sound Waves, Spinning Speed, Swinging Wonder, and Racing
Down the Ramp.” The hands -on scientific experiments, which explored velocity and acceleration, creating a polymer, digging to uncover dinosaur fossils, Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion, Biology, the law of conservation of momentum, chromatography, chemical reactions, frequencies of sound, and concave, convex, and planar mirrors were conducted at each of the stations. Under the instructi on and guidance of the Science Club members, the students also received printed directions for duplicating the experiments at home. Members of the McClellan Elementary PTA also volunteered their time and scientific savvy, which contributed to the success of this innovative interdistrict educational project. Kudos to Ms. Hannon and the members of the Thomas Jefferson High School Science Club, who expert ly demonstrated their scientific knowledge and encouraged the young scientists to further explore “Scientific Theories” in their enduring quest to become “lifelong learners.”
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
The “House was Rockin” during the Twenty Second Annual “Shower of Stars Talent Show” sponsored by the Pleasant Hills Middle School PTO. The annual Talent Show, coordinated by Paige Polick and Crissy Horvitz, provides a venue to showcase our gifted students in grades 6 through 12, who performed in the following categories: Vocal, Dance, Band, Instrumental, and Singer/ Songwriter. More than 100 students auditioned for this musical arts extravaganza. The Emcees who provided the program details were Allison Rothey, Connor Marshmna, Abby Brueggman, and Zach Rubosky. A resounding “Thank You” and “Congratulations” to our remarkable p arent volunteers and students whose creative, artistic talents entertained and enthralled us throughout this incredible event. Proceeds from the Annual Talent Show and the Silent Auction benefit the numerous educational programs and classroom activities sponsored by the Pleasant Hills Middle School PTO.
Congratulations to the following students who participated in the two–week 24 Math Challenge Program Tournament and represented the West Jefferson Hills School District in the 2012 Allegheny County 24 Math Challenge Competition. The Math 24 Competition, hosted by the West Jefferson Hills School District’ was held at the Jefferson Hills Municipal Building. More than 95 students from 25 elementary and middle schools representing school districts throughout Allegheny County participated in the Regional Competition. The 24 Math Challenge Program, is a national mathematical program, which strengthens a students’ math proficiency by developing pattern sensing, math reasoning, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. The Math 24 Challenge Tournament required the student competitors to use addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of 4 specified numbers to arrive
at a final equation that equals 24. The complicated Platinum level of challenge required competing students to solve algebraic expressions equal to 24. Included in the challenge were the use of exponents and the calculation of problems using fractions, decimals, and negative numbers. The students who represented Jefferson, McClellan, and Gill Hall, Elementary and also Pleasant Hills Middle School at the 2012 Greater Pittsburgh Competition, placed in the Top Two in the entire grade level Math 24 Tournaments held at their respective schools.
Julia Fiedor, Elena Savikas and Dorothy Johnson Grade 5, Jefferson Elementary Andy Griffiths, Erika Vogel and Sydney Moran Grade 5, McClellan Elementary Mia Como and Gabe Dominick Grade 5, Gill Hall Elementary Julia Rose and Garrett Fairman Grade 6, Pleasant Hills Middle School Courtney Rankin Grade 7, Pleasant Hills Middle School Alyssa Vogel, Caroline Willig and Owen Haythorn, Grade 8, Pleasant Hills Middle School Mark Schalles Grade 7, Platinum Level Pleasant Hills Middle School 44
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Notable Legends, whose historical significance is measured by various events or accomplishments, are usually recognized as lifetime achievements. The students at Jefferson Elementary, Pleasant Hills Middle School and McClellan Elementary, were afforded the opportunity to meet a “Living Legend,” our own Dom DeCicco, who humbly shared with the students his personal journey and professional success. Dom’s living his lifelong dream to play football in the NFL as a member of the Chicago Bears NFL Football Team. He poignantly relayed to the students the importance of continual dedication and hard work once you attain your dream. He discussed the impact of education and the importance of academic achievement and their correlation to professional football, emphasizing mathematical components, reading and comprehension. A brief question and answer session followed each assembly. The West Jefferson Hills School District extends our heartfelt thanks to Dom DeCicco for volunteering his time, guidance, advice and talents to enrich our students’ flourishing journey.
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The end of the school year is celebrated throughout the District with numerous traditions. One of the most honored District traditions is the Fifth Grade D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Graduation, the Fifth Grade Academic Awards Assembly, and the much anticipated, Fifth Grade Day Celebration. The fifth grade students, recognized for excelling in their academic achievements received the 2012 Presidential Education Academic Award, and those completing their D.A.R.E. instruction program, which is offered at Jefferson Elementary, Gill Hall Elementary and McClellan Elementary, were awarded certificates, inscribed tee- shirts, medallions, hats, and a variety of community donated wares. Orchestrating the memorable year- end events, which honor our District fifth graders, requires the collaboration of countless dedicated parents, PTA unit members and officers, faculty, administrators, and community leaders. The D.A.R.E. Program instills in our students a positive life-long message. It develops a perception of self-confidence, while cult ivating within our children their self- esteem and self- worth. D.A.R.E. provides a foundation for positive and responsible decision- making which can be utilized in situations where positive and negative choices are presented. The Program instructs students on various ways to say “No” when confronted with situations involving drugs, alcohol, and violence, and increases awareness of the potential conse quences for personal choices. Acclaimed recognition is bestowed upon Pleasant Hills Police Chief Edward Cunningham and Lieutenant Rick Kelly and Jefferson Hills Police Chief Eugene Roach and Sergeant Rich Bonacci for their unwavering commitment to our children and our District and their resolve to continue the affirmative, positive message of D.A.R.E. In attendance to offer their support for the D.A.R.E. Program and to Chief Cunningham’s continuous efforts were Mayor Warren Bourgeois, members of the Pleasant Hills Council, the Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Department, the Pleasant Hills Police Force and Baldwin EMS Departments. The fifth grade students’ endorsement of the D.A.R.E. Program was reflected in the manner in which the Graduates proudly made their way to center stage when their names were c alled to receive their D.A.R.E. awards. Congratulations and thank you to all who participated in the various celebrations and recognition ceremonies celebrating our District fifth grade students. ........................................................................... The District would also like to recognize and extend a heartfelt thank you to Officer Bryan Frankenfield of the Pleasant Hills Police Department who also graciously devotes his time to actively enforcing the positive message of D.A.R.E. to our sixth grade students at Pleasant Hills Middle School. Officer Frankenfield continues the D.A.R.E. message in his weekly instruction to the students. The students celebrated their completion of D.A.R.E. Instruction with a morning Graduation Ceremony and Certificate Presentation, which was attend ed by District administrators, members of Pleasant Hills Council, Lieutenant Rick Kelly and Chief Edward Cunningham. West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Appreciating the West Jefferson Hills School Districts’ dedicated commitment to Art Education, exemplified by the art, music, and theater curriculum presented to all students in grades kindergarten through twelve, is quite apparent when one has the opportunity to attend a high school play, middle school concert, or elementary Art Show. The halls of Jefferson Elementary were embellished with the various art forms created by the elementary students for the Third Annual Jefferson Elementary Art Show. The works of art displayed throughout the “Jefferson Gallery” included impressionists, masks, sculptures, photographs, and portraits. Thanks to the efforts of art teacher Adam Gebhardt, who coordinated the evening event, the elementary students and their families had the opportunity to view the unique display of art created by the Jefferson Elementary students and to create their own original works of art using various mediums. One of the Annual Art Show highlights was the Animated Videos created by the elementary students. The premise of the animated videos, which integrated science, mathematics, and writing was to have the students tell a story with photographs. The original scripts, which were written by the students, were photographed in sets and backgrounds created by the young animators. Blending technology with art, each twelve second animation requires approximately 140 photographs. Every change in movement or motion had to be photographed and set one frame at a time. The creative videos featured cars, fun friend outings, family life, and various animals and pets. Visitors in attendance were served light refreshments hosted by the Jefferson Elementary PTA.
Presents
Please join us for an Evening of Comedy, Music, Dance and Theatrical Performances featuring Local Celebrities and TJ Students and Alumni Saturday, June 23, 2012 ~ 7 p.m. Community College South Campus Theater Cost of Ticket: $30 Includes Light Refreshments For additional information, please call 412.655.0747 Or visit the TJ Arts Website at tj-arts.org All proceeds benefit TJ ARTS Performing Arts Scholarships 46
West Jefferson Hills
The fourth grade students at Jefferson Elementary “mastered metrics, tracked animals, built a self-propelled LEGO car, endued a Pentathlon, tested the velocity of an original egg crate and directed beams of light during the Fourth Grade Science Olympiad. The “Science Olympiad-Exploring the World of Science” is dedicated to furthering science education and supporting education programs. The Science Olympiad challenged the students to actively explore and apply scientific concepts through hands-on experimentation. The following highlights a sampling of the hands on scientific experimentation. At the “Animal Tracks: What Went By” Station, the students, using ink pads and mo dels, identified animals by using tracking field guides and animal models. At the “Reflection Relay” Station, the students, working in teams, used hand held mirrors to direct a beam of light to the designated targets. At the “Egg Drop “ Station, the students constructed a device to protect their egg from shattering when dropped from a height of 56 inches, using straws, cotton balls, packing pellets a nd masking tape. The “Lab Ratz” Station required the students wear safety glasses as they experimented with dry ice, dish washing solution and balloons. Enduring the physical “Pentathlon” teams answered questions about science and completed physical feats. Kudos to Jefferson Elementary teachers Connie Kocis, Dan Owen, Deann Stefl, Lori Lawry, Sylvia Nagy, Carlotta DelVecchio and Jessica Short, for creating, developing, and coordinating The Third Annual Jefferson Elementary Fourth Grade Science Olympiad.
• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
Field Day Though there were no sightings of famous baseball players of the past, the “Fields” at Gill Hall Elementary evoked equivalent “marvel” during their Original Gill Hall Elementary Whole School Field Day. The various Field Events, which included Tug of War, Water Relay, Bowling, Golden Baton Relay, Bean Bag Toss, Football Target and Battle of the Water Balloons was sponsored by the Gill Hall El ementary PTA. Kudos to the numerous Gill Hall Elementary Parent Volunteers, who made a dazzling fashion statement in their flamboyant Field Day Attire, for designing, developing, coordinating and manning this fun-filled, wonderful, dynamic Field Day Event.
“Road Trip ~USA” was the selected theme for the 2011-2012 McClellan Elementary Annual End of the Year Celebration. Sponsored by the McClellan Elementary PTA, the yearend celebration featured “Panning for Gold in California,” Mt. Rushmore, “The Theater District of Pittsburgh,” “Crafting a Hawaiian Lula Skirt,” and “New York New York highlighting Lady Liberty.” This whole school event provided students the opportunity to “travel “ to various States throughout our Nation, to gain knowledge of their unique aspects, visit their landmarks and experience simulated, hands- on cultural tasks. Students sifted through sand to pan for gold, sported theatrical costumes, fished in Hawaii, designed Native American necklaces, identified the familiar, “altered faces” on Mt. Rushmore, held Lady Liberty’s Torch, scored goals and accumulated points in “Flamingo Ringo.” Kudos to the McClellan Elementary PTA, and Chairs Sally Sally and Sharon Vlha as well as the dedicated parent volunteers for sponsoring this extraordinary, annual “Road Trip~USA” whole school event.
“Donuts With Dad” has an established tradition in the West Jefferson Hills School District. The Gill Hall Elementary PTA continued this tradition with their Fifth Annual “Donuts With Dad.” According to the National PTA, “when parents are involved with their children’s education and strive to develop a partnership with their community schools test scores are higher, discipline problems decrease, and students experience greater achievements.” This research- based statement was apparent during this amazing morning event. The cafeteria at Gill Hall, which quickly filled to capacity, echoed the delightful sentiments of our proud students and their important guests as they enthusiastically introduced their friends to their family. The Annual Breakfast, a time-honored tradition, served as a venue for old friends to come together and for new friendships to develop. Kudos to Dan Deabner, Chairperson, Gill Hall Elementary PTA, who for the past five years, has continued this momentous tradition with extraordinary diligence in coordinating and hosting this remarkable, annual event.
The students at McClellan Elementary were center stage when they performed a selection of well-known childhood stories. The musical accompaniment and dramatic interpretation was crafted by the students for their original presentation of “Sing Me a Story.” This annual production showcased the students performing “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything” “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed” “Paul Revere’s Ride” “Jump Frog Jump” “Pattern Fish” and “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible,No Good, Very Bad Day.” The whole school student performance included scenes with playful monkeys, a bell tower, a mini -van, frogs, fish and a brave elder woman, This 2012 McClellan Studios Production was directed by Amy Davidson
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
TECHNICAL TALENTS Congratulations to the following Thomas Jefferson High School students selected to receive the Extra Effort Award for their accomplishments at Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School. The recipients of the Extra Effort Award were chosen by their instructors and recognized for demonstrating outstanding attitude, work ethic, dependability, accurate theory, and consistent attendance. Senior Jocelyn Baker, Technology: Cosmetology Junior Christopher Armstrong, Technology: Electrical Construction Junior Jesse Floriolli, Technology: Medium/Heavy Truck Technology Sophomore Zachary Bahur, Technology: Protective Services
Congratulations to the following Thomas Jefferson High School students 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 to students each semester who demonstrate proficiency in their course work, consistent attendance, professionalism, and commendable behavior. Junior Catherine D’ercole, Technology: Cosmetology Junior Joshua Anderson, Technology: Protective Services Junior Cameron Jerome, Technology: Computer Information Systems Sophomore Mitchell Martino, Technology: Building Trades
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 Spring 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 Spring Varsity Athletic Team Record and Student Athlete Recognition: Placed Section III AAA Qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs Section Champions IV AAA Qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs 48
West Jefferson Hills
Austin Airhart Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the 110 Meter Hurdles Byron Minous Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the 110 Meter Hurdles Jennifer Johnson Qualified for the WPIAL Championship In the Triple Jump Paris Davis Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the High Jump Natalie Liebold Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the 300 Meter Hurdles Renee Miller Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the Triple Jump Allie Gennaula Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the Discus Jesse Hinkle Qualified for the WPIAL Championship in the Javelin
Coach Correll Celebrated His 500th Win during the 2011-2012 Season Placed Second in Section V Qualified for the WPIAL Team Playoffs Keegan Shudy Qualified for PIAA Doubles Tournament Jake Mascaro Qualified for PIAA Doubles Tournament
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e c S i u N m A m e e v r! a H By Judith Schardt
Memorial Day picnics are thought of as the unofficial kick-off to summer. Most people don’t wait for the summer solstice (when the sun is at its highest point in June) and the days are longer than any other time of the year. They like to get a jump on it in late May. Deck furniture gets dusted off, car windows are opened to warm breezes and the aromas of hot dogs and hamburgers waft from new grills. Summer to most adults means catching up outside on lazy Sunday afternoons with family and friends, and to children all around the country, it means counting down to the last second to school being out. And that leaves parents all around the country panicking – how will they keep them busy, out of trouble, out of their newly planted backyard gardens and off of their nerves? There are numerous day camps to satisfy every taste, such as robotics, scout, art and music and sports camps, but they can be costly and time consuming for the chauffeuring parents. With the high cost of 50
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Recreation in Pleasant Hills comes in many forms. For a borough that is less than three square miles, baseball fields, basketball courts, soccer fields, and
gas prices, many families are forced to do “stay-cations” (stay at home and create your own fun). There is a wonderful solution to help keep kids and parents sane through the long hot days of June, July and August and it requires little to no driving to get your kids there.“Life affords no greater responsibility, no greater privilege, than the raising of the next generation.” C. Everett Koop (former Surgeon General)
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football fields are around every corner. It seems as though there is every activity you can imagine. Pleasant Hills maintains three parks: Mowry Park, Pleasant Kingdom, and the Rt.51 Playground. The parks also offer modern and safe playground facilities, picnic shelters, walking paths, and much more. Every summer for at least four decades, the Pleasant Hills Borough Summer Recreation Program has entertained children from ages 5 through 12. For 8 years, the Director, Lynn Ransom (also a substitute
teacher for the Pittsburgh Public Schools), has overseen summer fun for hundreds of children, typically 200 per summer. Mrs. Ransom typically employs 25-30 high school and college counselors, depending on how many children sign up. Marge Procoffie, lunch aide at McClellan Elementary, is Mrs. Ransom’s right hand assistant. She’s a grandmotherly type to the children and counselors alike. The criteria to join recreation are: the child MUST be a resident of Pleasant Hills, be between ages 5 through 12 and pay $50 for the first child and less for each sibling. It is a six week program beginning the last Monday in June through the first week in August and runs Monday through Friday. The 5 through 8 year olds meet at the Pleasant Kingdom; those 9 through 12 meet at Mowry Park for less structured fun. At Pleasant Kingdom, from 9 - 12 noon each morning, the kids gather for three separate activities: crafts, sports and playtime (rotated in color coded groups). From 1 - 3 p.m. the counselors turn on playground sprinklers, weather permitting, for the kids to enjoy with supervision. They have field trips, lots of crafts, a very reasonably priced snack shack and even “Movies in Mowry Park.” Attendance is not mandatory. Mrs. Ransom said, “It’s like getting very cheap, very safe babysitting for your kids during the summer. All counselors are First Aid Certified and have child clearances.” She believes that recreation and fun, secure play is very important to children’s development.“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” Fred Rogers American television personality. They can always use donations of age appropriate puzzles and games (complete and in good condition), old CDs or DVDs and cleaned baby food jars for crafts. If you live in Pleasant Hills and would like more information about the Summer Recreation Program, Lynn Ransom can be reached at 412.655.3300 or 412.523.8750. West Jefferson Hills | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXCELLENCE:
By Judith Schardt
agle Scout is the highest rank attainable by Boy Scouts and the title of Eagle is held for life; giving credence to “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.” Since its introduction in 1911, over 2 million young men have earned Eagle Scout rank. Boy Scouts quickly learn that becoming Eagle is an honorable and challenging achievement. Only two in 100 scouts make Eagle. The scout must earn twelve Eagle merit badges plus nine non-Eagle badges, for a total of 21 badges. He must demonstrate Scout Spirit by practicing the Boy Scout Oath and Law, doing service to his troop and community, and taking leadership roles. The scout is required to complete an extensive service project for his community before his 18th birthday and organize and supervise the entire endeavor, which takes months. The project needs the Scoutmaster’s, Troo p Committee’s and District’s approval. Once all requirements are met, the Eagle Scout is presented with a medal and badge that recognizes his accomplishments. Pleasant Hills Troop 231 knows accomplishments. The Troop, chartered by the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church (PHCPC), is part of the Steel City District of the Laurel Highlands Council. A total of 78 scouts have earned their Eagle rank since the Troop’s beginning in 1948. This is due to both excellent leadership and determined scouts. “If I can have some part in guiding boys up the trails of Scouting, on to the road of noble character and constructive citizenship, I may prove to be the most important man in their lives… A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove. But the world may be different, because I was important in
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the life of a boy.” Forest E. Witcraft (1894 - 1967) teacher and Boy Scout administrator The dedicated and disciplined Eagles from Troop 231 deserve to be recognized. Greg McIntyre designed and completed a fireplace for cooking at the Mowry I pavilion in Pleasant Hills. Greg enlisted fellow scouts and leaders to help complete his Eagle project. At one point, there were 20 people working on the fireplace, ranging in age from 14 to adult. Local businesses and tradesmen donated materials and hours to aid the boys in this industrious endeavor. The large fireplace replaces a small park grill, allowing for a larger cooking area. While in 8th grade, Greg became interested in scouting because of a friend, Brandon Oskin, also an Eagle Sco ut. Not really a hiker, Greg joined the troop on a trip to Gettysburg where a 26 mile hike awaited them: the first day. He survived and was forever hooked and grateful to Brandon for inviting him. Greg will attend RMU in the fall to obtain his Masters in Accounting and photography. Greg currently serves as assistant scoutmaster for Troop 231. This fall Connor Kooyers will attend Eastern Michigan University to pursue a degree in history. His love of history led him to his Eagle project. He created a history center for PHCPC, the charter church for Troop 231. Connor was fascinated by the church’s history and knew others would be as well. In 1939, Troop 231 Scouts helped at strawberry festivals and directed cars at church events to raise funds to construct the first phase of the PHCPC, “the little white church.” I n 1949, the church got a new sanctuary and steeple; and the copula was removed and discarded; the bell, also removed, was saved and became the center piece of Connor’s history center. He included photos and documents detailing the early life of the church. The historic Lobb’s Cemetery in Jefferson Hills benefitted from Brandon Oskin’s project. He designed and constructed an outdoor stage complete with nine 12-foot benches for 100 attendees. The stage will be used for events like the annual Memorial Day ceremony. Mr. Al Betler of Betler Construction served as Brandon’s mentor throughout the project’s planning and construction phases. Other local businesses including Snavely Forestry Products, GenOn Energy Inc., Guardian Industries, Eastman Chemical, and Home Depot donated materials, while Brandon’s t roop members, family, and friends donated time.
As a Tiger and Cub Scout, Brandon regularly participated in the cemetery’s parades and flag raisings. Later on, he wanted to improve the aesthetics and functionality of Lobb’s to encourage the community to use the area for more than the Memorial Day service, perhaps as an outdoor classroom. Brandon plans to attend RMU, majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing/Advertising. Bec ause of Christopher Bredel, Jefferson Hills United Presbyterian Church now has a Memorial Garden. Following the 150th anniversary of the church, Christopher discussed his idea for engraved memorial stones with the church officials. Scouts dug out the area and laid a 14 foot walkway with pavers to the 7x7 foot patio, to hold stones engraved with names and memorial messages. The entire area was landscape d and a bench designed by Christopher and built by scouts and adults overlooks the engraved stones. Anonymous donors, church members, Brookside Lumber, Option Supply, and Lowe’s of Bethel Park all helped offset the cost by donating materials and money. While in 8th grade, former Scoutmaster, Al Betler, introduced Christopher to scouts. Christopher attended a few meetings, went on some outings, and quickl y became loyal to the troop. He currently serves as a Senior Patrol Leader and plans to go to Heritage Reservation this summer as a “Boy Scout” and return as an assistant Scoutmaster. He enjoys camping, is a member of the Thomas Jefferson Marching/Concert and Jazz bands and is in the Computer Club. Christopher plans to study computers after graduation in 2013, having studied programming while at TJ. Tro op 231 knows the importance of scouts and the kind of impact it has on making ordinary boys become extraordinary men. “Boy Scouts was invaluable in shaping my life.” Gerald Ford, U.S. President, Eagle Scout (1st Eagle Scout to be President)
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B USINESS D IRECTORY
Win This Nerf Pocket Camcorder!
You can be the star and the director of your own movies with this camera, so we’d like you to send us your SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER MOVIE POSTER featuring you! Your design is only limited by your imagination! You can draw your poster, make a collage, or make something on the computer!
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HOW TO ENTER Entries should be on unfolded 8.5”x 11” inch white paper and mailed to: Nerf Contest IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Digital entries should be emailed to: mark@incommunitymagazines.com. Digital images should be hi-resolution
images for reproduction (files larger than 1MB in size). Include with your submission: Name, age, and headshot of the entrant, parental signature, and phone number where we can notify you if you’ve won. Entrants are limited to children between the ages of 6 and 12 years of age.
The winning entry, as well as the first and second runners-up, will be featured in the Fall issues of IN Community Magazines. CONTEST DEADLINE IS JULY 6. No entries will be returned. Entries should not include any graphics or concepts of existing movie posters. All entries should be PG in nature.
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603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com
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