IN West Jefferson Hills by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Jefferson Hills Borough Quarterly Newsletter Inside

TJ Arts Sweet, Sweet Jazz Keep Your Resolutions

West Jefferson Hills School District Quarterly Newsletter Inside

Contents West Jefferson Hills | WINTER 2011 |

W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

25 page 2

Falls Are No Laughing Matter

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make New UPMC Rehab Institute President

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy this Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills

40 48

Publisher’s Message | 2 FEATURES

UPMC Today

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 25 |

IN KIDS | 40

Open Your Heart to an Older Adult

Keeping Your Most Important Muscle Fit

Back Pain: Many Causes, Few Cures

Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions

Winterizing Your Vehicle | 54

Protecting Your Family from

43 |

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | 56 COMMUNITY INTEREST

Sweet, Sweet Jazz

West Jefferson Hills School District News | 9

Jefferson Hills News | 34

Older Adults in West Jefferson Hills | 48

Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

ON THE COVER

The stained glass at Pleasant Hills Community Church

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

Welcome to our winter issue! I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking the journey with us that was 2010. That year was one full of blessings for INCommunityMagazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout western Pennsylvania.While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success. I’d like to thank two groups who make this magazine what it is: you–our readers– and our advertisers. First, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write-in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents.We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our Managing Editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Second, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support with IN Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are such a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed. So, readers, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in to their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and members of the community. I wish everyone a safe and prosperous 2011!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

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. PUBLISHER

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

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

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

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Happy New Year! As we begin a new year, I hope you'll take a few minutes to enjoy the articles we have assembled for this edition of West Jefferson Hills. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days, please don't forget to keep us in mind when you run into a person or organization who you feel would make an interesting feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will, accomplishment and charitable activity that seems to flow from the In West Jefferson Hills community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope your New Year is filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy.

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor

WINTER 2011

Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you. –T.A. Baron

Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

www.incommunitymagazines.com Spring Issue Deadline: March 5, 2011 2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

❆ ❆

❆

LaceUp ❆

he Allegheny County Parks Department opened the North Park and South Park ice rinks on Thursday, November 4. The 2010-2011 ice skating season will run through mid-March 2011.

❆

❆ YourSkates! ❆

The Parks Department will once again offer both free and paid skating lessons throughout the season to residents ages 5 and older. See the attached schedule for a complete list of operating hours, lesson times, admission fees, rink rental fees, and skate rental fees. ❆ The North Park and South Park ice rinks offer gift certificates, and the rinks are available to rent for special occasions. ❆ For additional information, call the North Park Ice Rink at 724.935.1280 or the South Park Ice Rink at 412.833.1499. ❆ 2011 Family, Senior and Individual pool pass certificates and 2011 Senior golf certificates are available as holiday gifts.

❆

Call 412.350.2468 for details.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

T.J

s t r A .

t e e w S eF a d ay D R , a k er ud eb t S Bob

Benny Ben ack Jr., B enny Bena ck III, Eric DeFa de

4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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Joe Herndon, Dave H Nick Deutsc iller, h

z z a J t e e w S T

J Arts hosted an evening of fabulous jazz and delicious desserts at the high school's auditorium in October. The event featured performances by the Benny Benack Band, Jazz Band I and Jazz Band II led by James Mirabella, vocalist Kevin Kindlin, and the TJ Alumni Jazz Band. "Most alumni are still professional musicians. We have alumni here from the Class of 1971 through 2001," noted Ray DeFade who directed the Alumni Jazz Band. Bob Studebaker of WDUQ was the emcee for the evening. Proceeds from this event fund the new lighting system at TJ Auditorium.

James M irabella

& the TJ Jazz Ban ds

TJ Arts is a non-profit organization founded by the school's alumni who were involved in the performing arts as young students. The organization is dedicated to Michele supporting and Stoicovy enriching the lives Lindsey S, Kelly Miller, mart of individuals involved in the arts within the schools and communities of the West Jefferson Hills School District.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

Learn to Safely Navigate Winter’s Driving Conditions T he hazards of the road increase in winter, as the weather becomes less predictable. To avoid these conditions, you might be able to cut down on your driving, but you probably can't eliminate it altogether...and maybe you wouldn't want to. Therefore, it's essential that you take steps to lessen your risk. As with many things in life, preparation is the key to managing winter driving hazards. The following tips can help to keep you safe on the road, regardless of the weather: ■ Check tire pressure monthly. Keep your vehicle's tires inflated at the manufacturer's recommended pressure for maximum performance on icy roads. It's important that you perform a pressure check monthly because a change in temperature of 10 degrees Fahrenheit changes the tire pressure about one pound per square inch. Added benefits of keeping tires properly inflated include better gas mileage and increased tire life. ■ Have your battery checked. Cold slows down the chemical reaction in a car's battery, which decreases its power output. In fact, starting power drops dramatically below 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure your car's battery is fully charged to compensate for the drop in output. ■ Know what your car is capable of handling. Your vehicle may have all-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes and all-weather tires. However, don't be fooled into thinking that these features are a panacea for all the problems associated with winter driving. Becoming too complacent about the car's ability to handle tough road conditions is a sure fire way to find yourself in a bad situation. ■ Learn to stay focused. When you drive, focus all of your attention on the road so you can anticipate hazards. Keeping your mind on the road ahead allows you to plan for areas that usually remain icy even when roads are clear, like bridges, overpasses and heavily shaded spots. The more aware you are, the better your ability to respond.

6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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■ Exercise extra caution when necessary. Intersections with stoplights or stop signs can become deceptively treacherous when the weather is bad. Because so much traffic slides to a halt in the same location, the snow tends to become packed, and develops a slick icy surface. Drivers who spin their tires when starting up from a stopped position compound the problem. To compensate for these conditions, begin braking sooner when approaching an intersection. This will allow you more time to make necessary adjustments. ■ Plan when and how you will travel. Travel during daylight hours and wear sunglasses that provide UV protection to shield your eyes from snow and ice glare. Take the most direct route possible to your destination, and allow extra travel time in case you encounter unexpected problems. ■ Keep your vehicle stocked for an emergency. Be sure to have blankets and snacks in your car or truck to tide you over if you are stranded or stopped by bad road conditions.

This Industry Insight was provided by: Joann Cusumano Sciulli, AAI Agency Principal Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills, PA 15236

Rosann Cusumano Elinsky, AAI, LUTCF Agency Principal

Want to List Your Home?

IN West Jefferson Hills

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY IS THE PERFECT MONTH TO DO IT!

If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with the return of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home. January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said Lori Crandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker. “January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning of the spring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people get bored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to list in the spring shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a leg up on the spring market before it gets saturated.” While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foot traffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing. “The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really important that sellers go online themselves and look at the differences between brokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popular website for consumers.” Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said that some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a foot of snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in the winter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny.

Other things that the winter provides advantages for include an opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether the home heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address. “There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a home warranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warranty and can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”

It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. “During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst. Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should make those photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yard looks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring. But if we have the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back who can’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.”

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

La Hacienda Mexican GrillBringing Authentic Mexican Flavor to West Jefferson Hills n these days of taco chains, it’s hard to find a family-owned, authentic Mexican restaurant that can stand out from the rest. But La Hacienda is that rare gem. Started by the Almanza-Serrano family, the Mexican cuisine at La Hacienda is the result of generations of family recipes and a mother who cooked daily for her husband and nine children. Coming to the United States to pursue the “American Dream,” the AlmanzaSerrano family found an opportunity at Century III Mall by purchasing the former Ruby Tuesdays and setting up shop. Jesus Serrano said that in the year that La Hacienda has been in business, he has found his customers to be family, and even greets them by name as they come in . The restaurant is currently in the process of

obtaining its liquor license, a statement that La Hacienda has arrived and is here to stay, and expects to start pouring margaritas for customers in mid-January. Despite the growth the restaurant has seen in the past year, Serrano said the family motto remains the same: “Food is art. Service is from the bottom of our hearts, and professional from beginning to the end.” While La Hacienda has a vast menu to choose from, we had the opportunity to sample a few of the more popular offerings that have made La Hacienda the popular destination that it is. Starting with the simple, but elegant nachos with cheese, homemade corn tortillas were brought out on a colorful plate with a cup of fresh, melted queso fresco and jalapenos. The queso fresco was delicious, creamy and mildly spicy. The jalapenos were freshly chopped, not the vinegary, pickled kind you find at baseball games. The mix between cheese and pepper was delicate 8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

and savory, and even if you’re the kind of person who can’t handle spicy foods, you’re going to want to try it – there’s more flavor than heat. We then moved on to the “Speedy Gonzales,” a lunch special that comes in at $6.75. For your money, you get a taco, an enchilada and your choice of rice or beans. We chose the chicken taco and enchilada and Mexican rice. Our enchilada was covered in a delicious red sauce and sprinkled with queso fresco, and the chicken within was some of the best we’ve ever tried. The moist, succulent chicken was perfectly done, and while you may be tempted to slather on your favorite hot sauce, try it plain first – you won’t be disappointed. This enchilada/taco dish can stand on its own merit. Lastly, we had the chimichanga, another La Hacienda favorite. Served with guacamole, sour cream, lettuce and cheese and salsa, and sides of rice and beans, this dish is guaranteed to fill you up like a piñata. The chimichanga shell was crisp, golden brown and held a nice portion of that perfectly-done chicken. The beans were tasty and the perfect complement to every bite. While some Mexican rice can be overdone or greasy, La Hacienda’s mix of rice, peas, carrots and green beans was light, fluffy and bursting with flavor. There’s a whole world of flavors to be had at La Hacienda, and we were sorry that we didn’t have the chance to try more. Whether you’re looking for steak, chicken, seafood, or vegetarian fare, La Hacienda will not let you down. We give La Hacienda our highest “Ole!” for Mexican cuisine that stands above the rest. La Hacienda is located at Century III Mall, 3075 Clairton Blvd. in West Mifflin, in the former site of Ruby Tuesdays. Take out is available, but with the colorful surroundings and helpful staff, why not dine in? Call 412.653.4141 for more information.

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS

SCHOOL DISTRICT

INSIDE West Jefferson Hills School District Message from Dr. Timothy McNamee Happy New Year! This is the time of the year we have an opportunity to look forward and plan for the betterment of our current situation as individuals and as a school district. Just a few months ago, I welcomed you to a new school year, promising to move the West Jefferson Hills School District along a journey of continuous improvement. As we begin Two Thousand Eleven, it is time to reflect on recent changes and design future successes. The beginning of the school year brought 187 new students (the Class of 2023), new administrators and new teachers, with different perspectives on teaching and learning. New systems, strategies, and programs were instituted throughout the school district. Some of those programs have already been revised and reorganized to maximize efficiency. The professional education staff reached agreement with the School Board on a new contract assuring continuity and commitment for years to come. Many classrooms have new technology, hardware and software to support the learning process. The Thomas Jefferson High School has a new digital sign to expand the communication with parents and our communities. The 2011 path of continuous improvement will undoubtedly highlight new thinking, approaches, and strategies to increase student achievement and benefit all aspects of the West Jefferson Hills School District. The district goals focus on in-depth study of 1) curriculum in the areas of Mathematics and Music, 2) on-line learning needs and opportunities, 3) district operations in the areas of facilities, technology, and transportation, and 4) options available to meet the needs of our changing demographics. The beginning of a new year also brings new challenges. As a result of the November elections, the electorates asked for a change in government. It appears that we will see a new philosophy of delivering and funding public education. The Governor-Elect, and many of the newly-elected State Legislators, propose expanding “school choice” for students and limiting additional state funding. On the federal campaign trail, the message of reducing spending will now be realized in reduced funds for ESEA (No Child Left Behind) and IDEIA (Special Education) programs. The “2011 will deliver West Jefferson Hills School District honors and teaches the democratic process. The voting public sent new thoughts, ideas, a message to all levels of government; this means our school district will find new ways to deliver excellent educational opportunities for our students while continuing to be good stewards of local and products for our resources. students to reach 2011 will deliver new thoughts, ideas, and products for our students to reach new heights as new heights they dream and prepare for their futures. As Thomas Jefferson said, “I like the dreams of the future [ new] better than the history of the past. So good night! I will dream on.” as they dream and Again, I wish you a Happy New Year.

prepare for their futures.”

Sincerely, Timothy F. McNamee, Ed.D. West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS Common Core Academic Standards and Implementation Information submitted by Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Supervisor of Academic Programs urrently, each state has its own academic standards levels. While Pennsylvania’s academic standards are among the nation’s strongest, Common Core Standards in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics will raise academic expectations nationwide, improve equity, and ensure that all students are prepared for college and career in core subjects. On July 1, 2010, the Pennsylvania State Board of Education adopted the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics, making Pennsylvania the 18th state to do so. The Board’s unanimous vote followed six months of careful study that produced evidence of strong alignment between Common Core and Pennsylvania standards. Under the Board’s regulation, the transition to Common Core will begin during the 2010-11 school year, with full implementation by July 1, 2013. This timeline is consistent with planning by other states that have a dopted Common Core and will help ensure clear, consistent expectations for students and educators throughout the implementation. The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) will offer ongoing professional development to assist districts in creating transition plans and aligning curriculum and instruction to the Pennsylvania Common Core Standards. The PDE will also help districts create an instructional redesign cycle and begin modification of district-approved curricula in English Language Arts and Mathematics using Common Core Standards alignment documentation provided by PDE. The PDE is continually updating its website on the Common Core Standards, and additional information can be found at www.corestandards.org. The West Jefferson Hills School District is reviewing curriculum in Mathematics and English Language Arts in preparation for implementation of the Common Core Standards; however, the district awaits direction and professional development from the PDE regarding full implementation of the Common Core Standards.

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TITLE I PERFORMANCE REPORT Information submitted by Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Supervisor of Academic Programs

he West Jefferson Hills School District receives Title I funds annually. The funds are used to provide reading services to students in Grades K-5 who are basic or below basic in their reading skills. Students are identified to receive additional reading services through their DIBELS, 4Sight, and PSSA scores as well as through teacher recommendation. One hundred percent of the West Jefferson Hills School District’s faculty meet the No Child Left Behind standards for highly qualified teachers. A highly qualified teacher, according to the United States Department of Education, is fully certified, has a bachelor’s degree, a content area major, and has passed a content area test. In addition, fully certified teachers in Pennsylvania have completed pedagogical course work in education, including student teaching. We take great pride in the tremendous skills and dedication of our faculty and staff, and we support students in achieving academic excellence daily. Please note that as parents you have the right to request and receive timely information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s classroom teacher. If you have any questions about the West Jefferson Hills Title I program please contact me at 412-655-8450, Extension 2227, or at cfuselier@wjhsd.net. If you have questions about your child’s teacher, please call Mr. Dennis Peterson, Jefferson Elementary Principal at 412-655-4163.

ongratulations to Shauna D’Alessandro on her appointment to the Professional Standards and Practices Commission. The West Jefferson Hills School district is pleased to announce the appointment of Shauna D’Alessandro, President, West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors, to the Pennsylvania Professional Standards and Practices Commission. Mrs. D’Alessandro’s nomination and appointment was approved by the Pennsylvania Senate. The Professional Standards and Practices Commission (PSPC) was created to provide leadership for improving the quality of education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by establishing high standards for preparation, certification, practice and ethical conduct in the teaching profession. The PSPC is advisory to the State Board of Education (SBE) on setting standards for teacher education and certification. It recommends standards for types of certificates, teacher education program approval, program approval processes, initial examination, induction, continuing professional development, and reciprocal certification with other states and bodies. In addition to the preceding considerations, it also analyzes teacher education programs and national certification processes. The PSPC is comprised of 13 members, including classroom teachers, public school administrators, an administrator of a teacher preparation institution, and members from the general public. The Governor appoints the chairperson. Each of the voting members are appointed to three-year concurrent terms by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Panels of nominees may be submitted by statewide organizations of professional educators. Requirements for appointment include teaching or a related service in a public school for at least five concurrent years. Professional organizations may also nominate persons for appointment. The PSPC has legal authority over professional educator discipline. Public hearings are held on any recommendations being considered for recommendation to the SBE. Such recommendations must be presented publicly at an SBE meeting prior to SBE action on pertinent issues. Additional information on the PSPC can be found at http://www.pde.state.pa.us/pspc

The West Jefferson Hills School District is in the process of hiring Substitutes to work in the following areas: Lunch Time Helper | This position will involve working in one of the elementary schools from 11:15am to 1:00pm. The job involves escorting the children from the classroom to the cafeteria, work assigned in the cafeteria -wiping down tables, assist the teacher in monitoring students in cafeteria and outdoor playground supervision. Cafeteria |Duties include portioning food, serving lunch and cleaning up the cafeteria. The hours of work range between 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., depending on the school. For the elementary schools, shifts are usually 2¾ hours, with longer shifts available at the secondary schools. Custodian| Hours for this position vary from daylight to evening shifts. Duties include mopping, sweeping and

cleaning classrooms and hallways and emptying garbage. Secretary | The position involves performing office duties not limited to answering the phones, making copies, basic computer skills and monitoring visitors to the school and assisting students in the office. The hours for this position will be a regular school day. Please contact the Human Resources Office at 412.655.8450, extension 2226 to request an application or stop by the Administration building Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Clearances will be required. EOE. Please refer to the District's website for solicited bid opportunities within the school district.

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Meet & Greet

he West Jefferson Hills School District sponsored the Fourth Annual Community “Meet and Greet.” The social event provided our newly hired administrators and faculty the opportunity to meet district residents, parents and students. District Administrators and Members of the of the West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors were on hand to greet those who attended. Light refreshments were provided by Metz Food Service.

Welcome he West Jefferson Hills School District would like to extend a warm welcome to the newest members of our District Administration and Faculty: Logan Dillinger, English, Alternative Education, Thomas Jefferson High School Michelle Piaggesi, Social Worker, Thomas Jefferson High School Daniel Hrvatin, Social Worker, Pleasant Hills Middle School Megan Curley, Music, Gill Hall Elementary Dustin Guidash, Physical Education, Jefferson Elementary Michael Rose, Physical Education, Thomas Jefferson High School Zachary Bonatesta, Spanish, Thomas Jefferson High School Kylie Recktenwald, Grade 1, McClellan Elementary Cynthia Cochran, Grade 2, Gill Hall Elementary Joanne Craighead, Grade 2, Gill Hall Elementary Brooke Froehlich, Grade 4, Gill Hall Elementary Amber Pearson, Grade 4, Gill Hall Elementary Katie Wright, Grade 5, Gill Hall Elementary Lynn McCullough, Grade 1, Jefferson Elementary Stachel Santora, Grade 1, Jefferson Elementary Donna Zang, Grade 4, Jefferson Elementary Jessica Short, Grade 4, Jefferson Elementary Julie Lumsden, Mathematics, Thomas Jefferson High School Tressa Montgomery, Mathematics, Thomas Jefferson High School Amy Wroblewski, Physical Education Thomas Jefferson High School Jason Namestka, Biology Thomas Jefferson High School Jeffrey Zanetti, Mathematics Jaguar Virtual Academy Carlotta DelVecchio, Director of Instructional Technology Integration /JVA

T Team Success Information submitted by Mr. Daniel Como, Principal, Pleasant Hills Middle School and Ms. Jessica Lee, Guidance Counselor, Pleasant Hills Middle School

leasant Hills Middle School offers an after-school, academic support program called “Team Success.” Team Success was developed to aid students with study skills, time management/organizational skills and home work help. Currently 37 students in sixth, seventh and eighth grade participate as members of Team Success. The guidance counselor and thirteen teachers facilitate the program. Team Success meets three days per week and each session is broken into three segments. The students first meet in the cafeteria where they are provided a snack and enjoy a relaxing moment. The next segment is for study/ home work help. Here the students are placed into small groups and work with a teacher in a classroom environment. Teachers assist the students with homework help and studying for tests and quizzes. The time is also used to help students organize their materials and prioritize assignments. The final segment is where the students participate in Study Island, a web based program aimed to give students extra help in math, science, and reading. “Team Success” presents an additional option in striving for our goal, which is to provide our students with the tools they need to be academically successful.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

GILL HALL ELEMENTARY

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KDKA Turkey Fund aising funds for the KDKA Turkey Fund was once again coordinated by Gill Hall Elementary fifth grader Jenna Herazo. Looking for suggestions to increase student participation in this worthwhile project, Jenna sought the advice of third grade teacher Steven Lauso. Jokingly he stated that “if the Gill Hall Elementary students raised more than $1,000 he would volunteer to have his head shaved.” The students hearing of this friendly wager successfully raised more than $1,400 for the KDKA Turkey Fund. On a cold December afternoon in front of the entire student body Mr. Lauso took his seat, front and center, wrapped in a plastic cape. Jenna had the honors of the first clip under the guidance of Mrs. Pittman, who completed the crop. Kudos to the Gill Hall Elementary students, faculty and staff who to date have raised more than $3,000 to benefit local families through the KDKA Turkey Fund.

Respect, Responsiblity and Teamwork he Gill Hall Elementary PTA sponsored a live performance by “The Hill Brothers,” who through their music, emphasized “respect, responsibility, and teamwork.” This interactive assembly provided the elementary students a lively concert, with the “Brothers” singing original hits and familiar favorites. An audience favorite was the “Respect Twist,” which “rocked the house” and reiterated the central message for “respect, responsibility, and teamwork” and the positive effect we generate when we respect ourselves and others.

West Jefferson Hills

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MORNING with Mom

BINGO!

he Gill Hall Elementary PTA once again sponsored the Annual Fall Family Festival and B.I.N.G.O. This fun- filled day included BINGO, Bake Sales, Crafters, Vendors, and numerous fall crafts for kids. The Face Painters and Tattoo Artists seemed to be a favorite with the children, whose cheeks sported an array of Jaguars, animals, pumpkins and super hero emblems. Families eagerly marked their cards to the calling of the numbers and cheered for all who excitedly shouted BINGO. The local vendors included crafters with assorted Jaguar memorabilia, carved wooden signs, scented candles, delectable finger food and beautiful beaded jewelry. Kudos to the Gill Hall Elementary PTA and our amazing parent volunteers who dedicated their time and talents to this successful family event.

ccording to the Journal Child Development, “the results of their study found that kids of highly involved parents had better social skills and fewer behavior problems at school than children whose parents were not involved.” This research- based statement was apparent during the first Gill Hall Elementary PTA sponsored “Morning With Mom.” More than 300 moms, aunts, grams, and friends participated in this morning meal of donuts, bagels, muffins, coffee, and juice. The cafeteria and veranda which quickly filled to capacity, echoed the delightful sentiments of our proud students and their important guests as they eagerly introduced their friends to their family members. The moms and children were served this outstanding meal by the dedicated “Gill Hall Dads,” who utilized their “Donuts With Dads” expertise in coordinating this amazing morning event. A heartfelt thanks to the Gill Hall Elementary PTA and our amazing parent volunteers who dedicated their time and talents to this noteworthy family event.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

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Candlelighters he fourth grade students at Jefferson elementary recently read “The Power of W.O.W” by Crystal Hubbard. The story is about a group of neighborhood children who successfully raise money to save their local Library. The fourth grade students decided to organize their own Community Service Project, to benefit the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Network. The “Candlelighters” is an active, all volunteer organization which offers support and encouragement to the families of children who have been diagnosed with cancer. The Jefferson Elementary fourth grade students donated various items, which were festively wrapped, filling more than 200 Special Packages for Candelighters to distribute to the families. Terry Beck, a Candlelighters volunteer, addressed the students and shared with them the story of her son. The students sang a heartwarming song entitled “We Are The People of the 21st Century.” “We are the people of the twenty-first century We are the future We are the light We are the people of the twenty-first century We have the chance to do it right We are the people.”

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he Jefferson Elementary PTA kicked off the National anti- drug, anti- alcohol, “Red Ribbon Week” in a “soaring” manner. With platforms assembled and musical accompaniment, the BMX Pros, “Perfection on Wheels” soared through the gymnasium, flying up and down the platforms with expert precision. The focused message of the Assembly,” do not do drugs or drink alcohol” was reaffirmed by the performing athletes, Jeff Slyvain and Hector Restrepo. They shared with the students the level of commitment and the countless hours involved in their training and conditioning and how drugs and alcohol would interfere with their training, their performance and their safety. A heartfelt thanks to the Jefferson Elementary PTA for presenting the students this life- long, valuable message and for the remarkable BMX “Perfection on Wheels Assembly.”

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Firefighters Visit Jefferson Elementary ressed in Firefighter’s gear from head to toe, members of the Jefferson Hills and Pleasant Hills Volunteer Fire Companies visited the kindergarten students at Jefferson Elementary. The volunteer Firefighters instructed the children on the importance of being prepared, planning an escape route and smoke detectors in the unexpected event of a house fire. The children had the opportunity to examine the flame protective suits, helmets, respirators, boots and gloves worn by the Firefighters. A heartfelt thank you to the Volunteer Firefighters who tirelessly volunteer their time, train, protect and serve the West Jefferson Hills School District Community.

McCLELLAN ELEMENTARY Punt, Pass and Kick ore than 55 third, fourth, and fifth grade McClellan Elementary students participated in the 2010 National Football Leagues’ Gatorade Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition. Based upon their overall score in the initial competition held at McClellan Elementary, the following students went on to represent McClellan Elementary at the 2010 Punt, Pass, and Kick Sectional Competition held at East Allegheny. Congratulations to: Faith Rockwell ~ Girls’ 8-9 Year Old Division ~First Place Mackenzie Childers~ Girls’ 10-11 Year Old Division ~First Place Andy Griffiths ~ Boys’ 8-9 Year Old Division ~First Place Zach Wagner~ Boys’ 10-11 Year Old Division ~ A special thank you to Physical Education teacher, Ms. Marie Bartoletti, who coordinated the 2010 Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition.

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ressed in an official basketball uniform “Crazy George” came to McClellan Elementary. The focus of this whole school assembly sponsored by the McClellan Elementary PTA was an anti- drug and alcohol message. Using “hoops and colorful basketballs,” George demonstrated through his unexpected basketball maneuvers, how choosing to “stay healthy and be healthy” is the best choice. Set to lively music, students dribbled and hooped, passed and scored, spun a basketball on individual fingers and toy dolls, and manned the fire extinguisher for one of the basketball finales. Throughout the Assembly, students were instructed to make healthy choices, to not drink or use drugs, and to stay healthy to be healthy.

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The McClellan Elementary PTA recently sponsored the tenth annual “Donuts with Dad Breakfast Buddy Program.” 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 event. More than 400 McClellan Elementary dads, buddies, and students participated in this morning meal of donuts, bagels, coffee, and juice. Our dedicated community partners, Chief Edward Cunningham, Lieutenant Richard Kelly, and members of the Pleasant Hills Police Department attended the breakfast celebration as stand in buddies. The gymnasium, which quickly filled to capacity, echoed the delightful sentiments of our proud students and their important guests as they eagerly introduced their friends to their family members. The annual breakfast also served as a venue for old friends to come together and for new friendships to develop. The complimentary breakfast was made possible through the gracious donations and funding from our local business community.

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he McClellan Elementary PTA hosted an evening to remember. The “Perfect 10 Fashion Show” highlighted the District’s “fashionistas,“ as each took to the runway sporting a trendy fall fashion, compliments of Marshalls and the Thomas Jefferson High School Jaguar Den. Mr. Wayne Ackman who served as the Master of Ceremonies, described the charming fashion details as the models strolled down the runway. The fashionista models were escorted by Pleasant Hills Police Chief Edward Cunningham and members of the Pleasant Hills Police Department. Kudos to the McClellan Elementary PTA volunteers who donated their time, their styling, hair and makeup expertise, and their professional talents to this fashion filled event.

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The Turkey Bowl he unseasonably warm evening added to the excitement as the undefeated Pleasant Hills Faculty faced the Gallant Eighth Graders. Taking the field first was the Middle School Band playing the National Anthem, followed by the spirited cheers of the middle school squad who welcomed our fearless teams The Annual Middle School Flag Football Game, sponsored by the administration and faculty, was held as a fundraiser to benefit Breast Cancer Research and our local food bank. The students and faculty rocked the Thomas Jefferson High School Stadium as they tirelessly passed, punted, and scored. Their athletic efforts successfully raised more than $1,200.

udos to the Pleasant Hills Middle School students, administration, faculty, and staff for sponsoring the Annual Food Drive to benefit our local Food Bank. As we continue to hear of the increasing numbers of families depending on the local food banks, the generosity of our students, parents, and community residents is extraordinary The middle school students once again filled the U-Haul to capacity with donated non-perishable food items weighing more than 9,000 pounds. The middle school students also accompanied the faculty with delivering, unloading, and stocking the donated items.

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he memories of “days gone by” were present on a sunny afternoon at Pleasant Hills Middle School. The administration, faculty, staff and students sponsored the “First Annual Middle School Car Show.” With their shinning chrome, polished doors and sparkling wheels the Classic and Antique Cars were proudly displayed. The ’57 Chevys, Mustangs, and vintage Fords were as beautiful as the elegant Rolls Royce. Those in attendance had the opportunity to view the cars as they strolled through this colorful maze of memories. The entertainment was provided by “DJ Rockin Zunic,” whose classic oldies set the perfect tempo.

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n recognition of “Red Ribbon Week” Pleasant Hills Middle School sponsored a series of Anti-Bullying Presentations by the Susan P. Barnes Health Education Center for students in grades six through eight and a drug awareness program for parents. The sixth grade students participated in the hands- on Program, “Its Not Cool to Be Cruel.” According to the Health Education Center, “The Its Not Cool To Be Cruel” Program explores the physical and emotional cruelty inflicted by bullying and violence. Through role playing and identifying personality traits students learn skills to defuse situations, build self esteem, and celebrate their uniqueness” The seventh and eighth grade students participated in the hands- on Programs, “Flirting or Hurting” and “In Her Shoes.” According to the Health Education Center, “The Flirting or Hurting” Program for middle school age boys, explores age appropriate sexual harassment and its destructive behavior. The session begins with defining sexual harassment and receiving information regarding sexual harassment. Throughout the Program students discuss how sexual harassment affects students, spectators, and the school environment.” The “ In Her Shoes” character education Program for middle school age girls is a combination of media, fashion, and music addressing girl – to- girl interactions. The topics addressed include cyber bullying and how to rise above difficult social situations, emphasizing the need for empathy and respect. The Program is designed to empower students and to eliminate relational aggression which can include exclusion, rumors and gossip.” During the “In Her Shoes” presentation students were asked to write hurtful words which were said to them by a classmate or friend and provided the opportunity to share with their classmates how the hurtful words made them feel. This self- expression was reassured with recognizing the caring environment provided for them by their parents and the middle school staff. Throughout the Program the focused message of respect for yourself and others, empathy and self- esteem were highlighted in the discussion, role -playing skits and the numerous pairs of shoes displayed.

he seventh grade students at Pleasant Hills Middle School exemplified the compassionate significance of “Going Green.” The students collected plastic shopping bags, which will be recycled into sleeping mats for the homeless. Ms. Ursal Sves of Jefferson Hills is one of the 50 women who meet weekly to crochet the donated plastic bags into mats. During her recent visit with the middle school students, she demonstrated how the mats are crocheted, each mat requiring more than 50 hours to complete. The students, “encouraged to make a difference in whatever way they can” filled eight large trash bags with the collected shopping bags.

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2010 Annual Band Festival he Thomas Jefferson High School Band Patrons sponsored the annual “Fall Festival of Bands.” This successful fundraising event, which supplements the TJ Marching Bands’ performances at community and school events, requires a dedicated coalition of Band Parents. The Thomas Jefferson High School Marching Band hosted this exceptional evening of music, which included musical entertainment from local high school bands, Robert Morris University and Westminster College. The excitement of the evening’s event began as you entered the stadium gate to the sounds of “TJ’s own Ben Benack.” As a renowned musician whose family has a legendary musical history, it was a remarkable experience to be entertained by “Ben on the Sax” and the members of his talented Jazz Ensemble. The parent volunteers were busy manning the

he safety of our children was at the forefront of the “Taking the Lead: Ford Driving Skills for Life Assembly,” recently held at Thomas Jefferson High School. The assembly’s focus on teen drivers, revealed this startling statistic: 7,000 teens die each year in vehicle crashes. The students in attendance were presented various driving scenarios and accident related information by a panel of presenters which included, Mr. Jim Lokay, Traffic and Transportation Reporter, KDKA Television, Mr. George Loeffelbein, Westfield Insurance, Attorney Pam Wahal, Allegheny County Pretrail Services, and Pennsylvania State Trooper Robin Mungo. After the presentation students had the opportunity to participate in a question and answer session.

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booths selling flowers, programs, beverages and food items from the concession stand, band memorabilia, and distributing personalized notes to the performers from family and friends. As the stands began to fill and the evening’s program officially began, the stadium echoed with the sounds of incredible music. When it was time for the Thomas Jefferson High School Marching Band to perform, the Musicians, Color Guard, and Majorettes, under the direction of James Mirabella, Julie Lucci, and Valerie Sigler Myers, presented their repertoire of selected music with pageantry and professionalism to the energized audience. A special thank you to the members of the Thomas Jefferson High School Band Patrons, Members of the TJ Marching Band, and parent volunteers whose diligent efforts provided those in attendance an enchanted evening of marvelous music, exhilarating pageantry, and goodwill.

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2010-2011 National Merit Scholars Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson High School Seniors Molly Donaldson and Charlotte Harris for their designation as a Commended Student in the 2011 National Merit Program. This recognition for exceptional academic promise and demonstrated outstanding academic potential is based upon the students’ performance in the National Merit Scholarship Program Competition. This academic award was based upon their outstanding score in the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. More than 1.4 million high school students representing over 21,000 high schools nationwide entered the National Merit Program. According to the NMSC, “The young men and women named Commended Students in the 2011 National Merit Program, have exhibited an outstanding academic performance, placing nationally among the top five percent.” Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson High School Senior Rachel Clark for being designated a National Semi-Finalist in the 2011 National Merit

The following Thomas Jefferson High School students have been selected to participate in the Allegheny Intermediate Units’ (A.I.U.) year-long Apprenticeship Program. The Program, founded in 1978, began with one apprentice choice and 25 students. Selected students are afforded the opportunity to meet and work with professionals who share with the students their professional experience, expertise, and enthusiasm. For the current school year, the A.I.U.’s Apprenticeship Program received more than 800 applications from students representing more than 63 local schools districts. The students’ application and faculty recommendation were the basis for the selection of the more than 725 current student participants. Congratulations to the following Thomas Jefferson High School students who have been selectedfor this worthwhile, professional, hands-on instruction: Senior Donald Voland will participate in the Engineering Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers. Students will gain an understanding of the similarities and differences of the many areas of engineering. They will also have the on -site opportunity to meet with professional engineers. Junior Rebecca Coppie will participate in the International Affairs Program. This program will be offered through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Students will gain an understanding of the various careers in international affairs and the major economic, political, and societal issues in an increasingly interdependent world. They will also have the opportunity to explore work/study abroad options. Senior Charlotte Harris will participate in the Nursing and Health Care Program. This interactive program will be offered through the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Students will be paired with a health care worker, and will have the opportunity to meet leaders in the UPMC System, gain an understanding of expected professional behavior; patient confidentiality and patient safety. Junior Nicholas Franczak will participate in the Green Design Civil

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Scholarship Program. Rachel’s exceptional academic award was based upon her outstanding score in the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. More than 1.4 million high school juniors representing over 21,000 high schools nation-wide entered the 2010 National Merit Program. The National Semifinalists representing the top one percent of high school seniors includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. To proceed to the Finalist Level, students must have an outstanding high school academic record, repeat their qualifying test performance on the SAT, and be endorsed and recommended by their high school principal. Merit Scholar Designees are selected on the basis of their accomplishments, skills, and demonstrated potential for success in rigorous post-secondary studies. Rachel’s designation as a National Semi-Finalist affords her the opportunity to compete for one of the Merit Scholarship Awards, totaling more than 33 million dollars. The National Finalists selected to receive the Merit Scholarship Awards will be announced in the Spring of 2011.

Engineering Program. This program will be offered through the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Carnegie Mellon University. Students will have the opportunity to explore daily decisions, which impact the environment and the role of engineers in researching the most “environmentally friendly” answers. Junior Alexandra Dalton will participate in the Broadcast Journalism Program. This interactive program will be offered through Point Park University. Students will be introduced to Broadcasting careers in both television and radio. They will have the opportunity to meet with broadcast professionals, writers, producers, and editors, on their visits to television studios and radio stations. Junior Elizabeth Lowman will participate in the Opera and Voice Coaching Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Opera. Students will have the opportunity to explore career options in opera, to tour the numerous departments at the Pittsburgh Opera and observe as well as participate in coaching sessions, performances, and rehearsals. Senior Megan Nissley will participate in the Zoo Animal Care Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. Students will gain an understanding of the behavioral characteristics and veterinary needs of zoo animals as well as the skill sets required for animal care. Senior Alex Danscak will participate in the Digital Photography Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. Working with digital cameras and software, students will gain an understanding of the unique capabilities of digital photography. Lectures regarding composition, lighting, and manipulation of the digital image will provide the foundation for maximizing the capabilities of digital photography and technology. Junior Teja Badami will participate in the Marine Biology Program. This interactive program will be offered through the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. Students will explore the aquatic ecosystems, examine the physical qualities of water, study and care for living organisms in captivity and in the wild, and gain an understanding of the career opportunities in the field of Aquatic Science.

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ongratulations to the following senior girls who were nominated for the 2010 Thomas Jefferson High School Homecoming Court: Jillian Albrecht Marie Carroll Jordyn D'Alessandro Mariah McCormick Natalie Meyer Grace Ninesling Tori Peifer Kellie Rizzo Sarah Werner The senior girls representing the 2010 Homecoming Court were escorted by their fathers and introduced during halftime at the TJ Varsity Homecoming Football Game. Kellie Rizzo was chosen by her fellow junior and senior classmates as the 2010 Thomas Jefferson High School Homecoming Queen.

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reat things are bound to happen when you amass the talents and generosity of the faculty, students, administration, and staff at Thomas Jefferson High School. The recent “Pie A Teacher for a Cause,” coordinated by senior Ashley Zaya, raised more than $1,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Members of the Thomas Jefferson High School Marching Band and the Student Council assisted Ashley in organizing this fund raising effort. The voting tally and official “Pie in the Face” was held at a pep assembly at TJ. Kudos to Ashley and the Thomas Jefferson High School “Pie Volunteers,” students, faculty, administration, and staff, who generously raised more than $1,000 for Breast Cancer Research.

Powder Puff ne of the most time- honored traditions at Thomas Jefferson High School occurs during early fall on the TJ Football Field. Taking the field dressed in “black and gold” Jaguar attire, with faces painted a distinct year of graduation, the Senior Girls face the Junior Girls for this annual exhilarating game of Flag Football. With determination and passion the girls punt, pass, and run the football scoring the needed touchdowns for a “senior victory.” Kudos to the dedicated girls representing the classes of 2011 and 2012 for continuing this fun- filled, time honored TJ tradition.

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Technical Talents he students and staff at Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School graciously hosted the 2010 Annual West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce Fall Breakfast Roundtable. The event, coordinated by Co-Op Coordinator Lori Warabow, who serves on the Chamber Board, showcased the culinary talents of the students who prepared and served the morning cuisine under the direction of Food Services Instructor Laurice Dailey. More than 50 Chamber members, students, and community guests attended the networking event.

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ongratulations to the following Thomas Jefferson High School students who competed in the District 8 Skills USA Competition: Greg McIntyre ~ Competition Category~ Culinary Arts Scott McGill ~ Competition Category~ Customer Service Troy Robinson ~ Competition Category~ Health Occupations Knowledge Bowl Jessica Dolata ~ Competition Category~ Health Occupations Knowledge Bowl

he competition was exceptional during the District 8 Skills USA Competition, recently held at Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School. Skills USA is a national professional organization focused on developing a student’s leadership, technical, academic and technology driven skills necessary for a career in established trades. The Skills USA Competition requires competing contestants to test their knowledge of industry skills and standards in their area of technical study. The Skills USA Competition featured hands- on demonstrations and oral presentations in numerous categories including Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Health, Occupation Web Design, Automotive Refinishing and Electronics Technology. The students who placed first in the District 8 Competition will compete in the State Competition.

he following Thomas Jefferson High School Students were selected to receive the Extra Effort Award for their accomplishments at Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School. The recipients of the Extra Effort Award are chosen by their instructors and recognized for their demonstrating outstanding attitude, work ethic, dependability, accurate theory and consistent attendance. Congratulations to: James Reynolds ~ Area of Technical Study~ Building Trades Louis Kampert~Area of Technical Study~ Electrical Construction Jordan Blasko~ Area of Technical Study~ Heating Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Scott McGill~Area of Technical Study~ Retail Food Merchandising and Production

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Thomas Jefferson High School Jaguars Congratulations to all of the Thomas Jefferson High School athletes who participated in Fall Sports. 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 Fall Sports Season. Each of you impressively demonstrated “Jaguar Pride” both in victory and defeat. We are proud of you and your athletic accomplishments. The 2010 Thomas Jefferson High School Fall Varsity Athletic Team Record And Student Athlete Recognition Boys’ Soccer Placed Fifth Section III AA Josh Ambrose Section III AA Finest Fifteen All Star Drake Hannon Section III AA Honorable Mention Severin Scott Section III AA Honorable Mention Girls’ Soccer Placed Fifth Section V AAA Allie Geary All -Section Team Varsity Golf Placed Third Section VI Ryan Labarbera WPIAL Semi-Finalist Team Captain

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Sports Round Up Bill Cherpak, Athletic Director

Qualified for the WPIAL Team Championships Julie Liebenguth WPIAL Doubles Qualifier Lexi Ottonello WPIAL Singles Qualifier WPIAL Doubles Qualifier Girls’ Volleyball Placed First Section V AA Champions Big 8 Tournament Champions WPIAL Playoffs Natalie Meyer First Team All Section Second Team WPIAL Nicole Miller First Team All Section Melissa Hess First Team All Section Jill Albrecht First Team All Section Bre Surgot First Team All Section Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country Varsity Football Big Seven Champions Section Champions WPIAL AAA Playoffs

! e d i r P r a u g Ja Girls’ Varsity Tennis Placed Second in Section

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“Black and Gold Pride”

This recognition is dedicated to those supportive parents, siblings and friends of our District students who magically transform a grouping of wooden posts into a colorful collage of team patronage. The topographic changes can be attributed to the numerous parent and student groups who patiently create the spirited signs, which display our “Jaguar Pride.” Thank you for taking the time to craft this exhibition of encouragement and appreciation for our District student athletes and musicians. This awesome demonstration of neighborhood support and “Black and Gold” pride unites community residents in sharing our “TJ Spirit” each time we travel along Old Clairton Road.

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Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

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Falls Are No Laughing Matter

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The Difference a Number Can Make New UPMC Rehab Institute President

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Be Happy and Healthy this Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

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UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills

Falls Are No Laughing Matter Here’s how you can help avoid them at any age Prat falls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’re deadly serious. Falls are the leading injury-related reason people go to the emergency room. Each year, more than a million Americans suffer a slip, trip, or fall injury, resulting in more than 17,000 deaths. Falls don’t have to be an inevitable part of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others. “Have you ever noticed that athletes tend to be injured late in a game? That’s because they’re tired, distracted, or rushed,” says Gary P. Chimes, MD, PhD, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center. “These same conditions are often at play during a fall. You may blame a fall on a slippery sidewalk or unstable chair, when the real underlying cause is entirely different. Knowing what causes a fall is key to addressing the problem.” Your “personal safety margin” diminishes when factors such as age, fatigue, body weakness, and chronic illness are added to the equation.

“Falls often point to other underlying health issues. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of what your body is telling you,” says Dr. Chimes.

Treating a Fall

Exercise: Exercises that promote strength, balance, and body coordination are especially important to prevent falls. Dr. Chimes recommends the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults.

“If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a broken bone, severe cut, or concussion, seek immediate medical attention,” advises Lisa R. Blackrick, MD, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UPMC Mercy. The Level I Trauma Center at UPMC Mercy is specially equipped to evaluate and treat serious and complex injuries.

See your doctor regularly: Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlying medical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experience problems like dizziness due to medications.

For less serious injuries such as a sprain or pulled muscle, follow the RICE procedure, she says: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. “If your pain worsens or does not diminish within two or three days, you should contact your family doctor for what to do next.”

Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especially steps. Make sure carpets and handrails are secure. Use a non-skid mat in your bath. If you have small children, use safety locks on windows and be sure cribs, infant swings, and other equipment are placed securely. Older children should always wear protective gear when biking, skiing, or skating.

After a fall, many people — especially seniors — fear that it will happen again. “The good news is that there are many things that can be done to minimize the reoccurrence of falls, including physical therapy and exercise, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Blackrick. “The important thing is to maintain a dialogue with your health care provider.”

Three things you can do to avoid falls

To learn more about fall-related injury treatment options at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-7865.

Quick Facts About Falls • Children under the age of five and seniors over the age of 70 have the greatest fall rates.

• Among older adults, more than two-thirds of those who fall are likely to fall again within six months.

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• The most severe falls among children are linked to baby walkers, windows, and play equipment. Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control

The Difference See a Number Can Make how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call! Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke. When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream. To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal. You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease. Your doctor can help you learn and manage these numbers. To schedule an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

New UPMC Rehab Institute President Her position as the president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute may be new, but Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD, is a seasoned UPMC veteran. A physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, she began her career as a resident at the Hospitals of the University Heath Center of Pittsburgh (now UPMC). Today, as president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Dr. Reidy oversees western Pennsylvania’s largest provider of inpatient rehabilitation services.

Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD

The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute offers accredited, specialized care for patients after illness and injury, including stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputation, and multiple traumatic injuries. Services are provided in seven acute care hospitals throughout the area: UPMC Mercy, UPMC Horizon, UPMC McKeesport, UPMC Montefiore, UPMC Northwest, UPMC Passavant, and UPMC St. Margaret.

During her career, Dr Reidy has seen dramatic changes in the way physicians deliver rehabilitation services. She describes the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute as a “very different kind of institute”. Since inpatient rehabilitation services are provided at seven locations, patients can remain close to home and under the care of their physician. “Having world-class care in their own neighborhood benefits patients and their families,” she adds. As Americans live longer and healthier lives, the demand for quality, convenient inpatient rehabilitation services will continue to increase. “Baby boomers are expected to regain functional ability, whether they are recovering from surgeries or injuries, or coping with chronic illnesses,” says Dr. Reidy. “We are committed to helping them get back to a full life.” For more information on the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.

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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand? You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles. • Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product. • Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available. • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently. • Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors. • Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping. • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. • Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group. • Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend. • With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring. “Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression. In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains. Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall. If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy. While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

Did You Know? • People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition. • More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Innovation at UPMC

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith. Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine. But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology. Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.” The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner. “We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.” Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery. “We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.” For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

1-800-533-UPMC

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm. Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses. “All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti. The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed. “The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor. We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists. If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone: 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome. Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills, located just off Route 19 in Bethel Park, has become a convenient choice for area residents. With MRI and more breast imaging services now available, the South Hills center is even better prepared to provide for your imaging needs. UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills offers the following services on-site: Radiology • MRI • general x-ray Magee-Womens Imaging Services • digital mammography • ultrasound • DXA bone density testing UPMC Cardiovascular Institute • nuclear medicine • echocardiography • peripheral ultrasound • vascular studies

“We recently added MRI, digital mammography, and on-site breast biopsy, to give South Hills residents more services right in their neighborhood,” says Lori Collins, director of imaging services at UPMC Mercy. “With our advanced, state-of-the-art technology, our staff can provide fast, high quality images,” she adds. Imaging services, especially for children, are now available at the new Children’s Express Care center, located in the same building as UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills. “When a child needs an x-ray, it’s reassuring for parents that it can be done nearby instead of driving to another location,” adds Ms. Collins. (Read more about the Children’s Express Care Center and its hours of operation on page 6.) UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills participates in most insurance plans. The center also offers comfortable and private waiting rooms and testing areas, as well as free parking and valet service.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Radiology Services (x-ray and MRI) Phone: 412-851-8740 Hours for x-rays Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Same-day appointments available. Hours for MRI Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Same-day appointments available.

Magee-Womens Imaging Services Phone: 412-833-9000 Hours Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

UPMC Cardiovascular Institute Phone: 412-347-3240 Hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about all imaging services at UPMC, visit www.UPMC.com/Imaging.

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Mercy physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments. Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

Volunteer Tax Preparers are needed to provide free income tax assistance for hardworking individuals and families in Allegheny County. Your volunteer experience is a short-term commitment (3+ hours per week from January-April), convenient (our six free tax sites are located across Allegheny County and close to where you live and work), and easy to schedule (daytime, evening, and weekend hours are available). If you have experience preparing your own tax returns, we need you! Learn more about the Free Tax Campaign at www.pghfreetaxes.org.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Become a Friend T

Jefferson Hills Borough

2011 MEMBERSHIP

he Friends of the Jefferson Hills Public Library was organized in 1997 to support and assist in activities of our Library. We obtained the nonprofit, tax deductible 501(c)3 status in 2000. All of our fundraising profits are donated to the Library, and we are quite close to the $100,000 mark! Hopefully we will surpass this in the next year or two. If you have ideas that will help us accomplish our goals, we’d love to FORM hear from you.

The Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library 925 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, PA 15025

Yes, I will support The Friends of the Library by becoming a member, as indicated below. ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Individual, $10 Student, $5 Sr. Citizen, $5 Family, $15

DUES ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

name

address

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Associate, $25 Sustaining, $50 Patron, $100 Associate, $500

phone

state

zip

West Jefferson Hills

We sponsor two main events—The Used Book and Costume Jewelry Sale in the spring and the Direct Mailer in the fall. The 2011 Used Book and Costume Jewelry Sale is scheduled for March 8-10, 2011, with the Preview Party on March 7. Your donations of books and jewelry are needed and accepted at the Library throughout the year. We can always use extra hands during the sale as well! Sign-up sheets for various volunteer areas are in the Library a month or two before the sale. Our 2010 fall mailer was recently launched. We have never made a yearly donation over $10,000, but with your help we can surpass that this year! We have developed a list of individuals, families, and businesses

Jefferson Hills Borough

Upcoming Programs & Events that receive a request for financial contributions. This list is continuously expanded and improved with the hope of producing better results each year. You can send your contributions to the Library at 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. Remember, all donations to the Library— both books and monetary gifts—are tax-deductible. To further help our Library and JH community, we participate in other community events such as the annual JH Holiday Celebration and the JH Historical Society’s first Fall Festival, which was held this past October. When the Library and other JH organizations ask for our help, we try our best to support them. The Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library is currently a small group of people who perform a great benefit for our community. We have five business meetings a year plus an occasional brunch to discuss a specific project. We welcome and need new members. A membership form is included on page 34 as well as at the front desk of the Library, or you can e-mail us from the Library webpage. We encourage all of you who support our mission and would like to contribute your time to the community in an effective way to consider joining our group. You will find, as we have, that a little time spent with some really great people provides a vital, worthwhile service to our JH community.

“Readers are Leaders.”

Adult Programs

Reliable Health Information on the Internet January 11, 7 p.m. Instructor: Deborah Keene Medical Librarian at AGH, Deborah Keene, will present information on how to review and analyze health information on the internet. Free. Registration required. Stained Glass Stepping Stones Tuesdays, March 22, 29; April 5, 12, 19, 26; 6 – 8 p.m. $30.00 fee for class and approximately $50.00 for materials and tools. Instructor: Mr. Wesley Luckey Registration and pre-payment required. Yoga Thursdays, January 6, 13, 20, 27 February 3, 10, 6:45 – 8 p.m. $5.00 per class - bring a yoga mat Instructor: Dita Badam Book Discussion Meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

Teen and Tween Programs

Red Cross Babysitting Class Saturdays, January 15 and 22 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch provided. $50.00 fee payable to American Red Cross Must attend both classes. Registration and pre-payment required 1st Teen Advisory Board (TAB) Meeting of 2011 Sunday, January 9, 2 – 3 p.m. Teens interested in promoting literacy in our community are welcome to attend. Many volunteer service projects are available, which include helping with the “Children’s Reading Program,” assisting with the “Tween Programs,” shelving books, etc. Service hours will be recorded. Interested students can register on line or by contacting the Library at 412.655.7741.

Valentine Tween Time (Grades 5 – 7) Monday, February 7, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Learn how to make easy Valentine sweets Scrabble Club for family and friends. If time allows, we Meets Tuesdays, Noon to 4 p.m. will also be making Valentine cards to Everyone welcome. send to our troops abroad. Refreshments will be served. Historical Society Meetings Students must register on line or by January 22 – 1 p.m. Archival Workshop calling the Library at 412.655.7741. February 26 -1 p.m. Show and Tell and Please note any food allergies at the time Lenzner tours will discuss future field trips. of registration. March 23 – 7 p.m. Steel Industry in Clairton. Children’s Programs Please share old photos of the area. Storytime for Preschool and Kindergarten We will copy and return. Suggested ages 3½ - 6 years January 20, 27; February 3, 10, 17, 24 Climbing Your Family Tree II Sessions: 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. February 1, 8, 15 & 22 Caregivers may enjoy coffee and snacks 7 – 8 p.m. while the children attend storytime. Instructors: Beverly Borneman & Debbie Morinello Dr. Seuss Birthday Party March 5 Watch for more information.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Jefferson Hills Borough

RT 51 Corridor Is Studied. The Borough of Jefferson Hills is actively involved in a joint planning effort to revitalize and improve U.S. Route 51 from the Liberty Tubes to the Elizabeth Bridge. The effort was originally spearheaded by Pennsylvania State Representative Chelsa Wagner, and has been supported by all of the communities that transcend this corridor. Recently, the project received a grant from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Heinz Foundation, providing the services of expert planning, design and engineering consultants from across the nation to study the Route 51 corridor and make recommendations on future actions. As Jefferson Hills adopted a new Comprehensive Plan this year, which included strategies to improve Route 51 in the Borough, this is a very timely project.

During the week of October 4, 2010, the consulting design team visited the area, and began their week with a bus tour of the communities along the corridor. Allen Cohen, Borough Planner, and Ruthann Omer, Borough Engineer, provided a narrative to the team as the bus made its way through our community. Later that day, the consultants began meeting with the various stakeholders along the corridor including public officials, landowners and state and local agencies. On the first evening, a public meeting was held at the Baldwin-Whitehall High School to allow residents of the communities to provide their thoughts on the future of Route 51. Residents from Jefferson Hills spoke about the Comprehensive Plan, the need for economic growth through the development of a town center, traffic and improving the appearance of the corridor.

Over the next two days, the design team continued their work through field visits, interviews and meetings. They were very impressed with the efforts that Jefferson Hills undertook to develop a town center as part of the Comprehensive Plan, and included that idea as part of their concept plan for the future of the corridor. The plan recommendations were made at a public meeting on the 3rd evening. A link to the final presentation is available on the Boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, www.jeffersonhillsboro.org. The Route 51 Steering Committee, that includes representatives from the Borough, will now review the ideas of the plan and develop strategies to assist in the implementation of its key components. 36 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

Jefferson Hills Borough

State and Allegheny County Roads in the Borough of Jefferson Hills maintained by Allegheny County and PennDOT Although you may be a Borough of Jefferson Hills resident, you may reside on a roadway maintained by PennDOT or Allegheny County. Please see the following table for the various PennDOT and Allegheny County roadways located in the Borough of Jefferson Hills. PennDOT Roadways – Lovedale Garage 412.384.6161

PennDOT Roadways – Bridgeville Garage 412.221.3622

Allegheny County Roadways – Warehouse #4 412.384.8700

SR 0051 SR 0885 North Lewis Run Road Miller Road Payne Hill Road Wall Road

SR 0837 Cochran Mill Road Coal Valley Road (section off Gill Hall Road) Scotia Hollow Road Gill Hall Road (Cochran Worthington Avenue Mill to Finleyville) Piney Fork Road Ridge Road Snowden Road Walton Road

Allegheny County Roadways – Warehouse #5 412.833.3133 Chamberlin Road Cochran Mill Road Gill Hall Road (Pleasant Hills Line to Cochran Mill) Old Clairton Road

The Borough of Jefferson Hills does not have authority on these roads. If you have any concerns regarding these roadways, please contact PennDOT or Allegheny County at the above listed phone numbers.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

Jefferson Hills Borough

SNOW REMOVAL W

inter is here and the Borough of Jefferson Hills is plowing and salting Borough roadways. Residents can help with winter maintenance by following these simple guidelines:

❆ Please ensure any snow removed from your property is not placed on the roadway. ❆ Depositing snow from clearing your driveway to the right side (as you face the street) as well as clearing an extra section on the left side (as you face the street) on your driveway should help prevent snow plows from pushing extra snow into your driveway. ❆ Move all vehicles from the roadways during winter maintenance. ❆ Please trim any tree branches extending into the roadway. These branches can cause damage to trucks. ❆ Young children should not be allowed to play near the street when snow has accumulated. Snow banks that develop make it difficult for snowplows and car drivers to spot youngsters. ❆ Residents who have fire hydrants in front of their homes, in their apartment complexes, or in the parking lot of their buildings, can assist by clearing snow from the areas surrounding them. ❆ Residents who have catch basins in front of their homes can help by keeping ice and snow away from the openings, so the water from the melting ice and snow can drain freely. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Please contact the Borough at 412.655.7760 if you have any questions. Thank you for your patience.

I t t e L Snow! L et It Snow! 38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

Jefferson Hills Borough

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED From time to time, volunteers are needed to serve on the Borough’s Boards and Commissions. Volunteers are currently needed for the Recreation Board, Zoning Hearing Board, Economic Development Commission and Civil Service Commission. If you would like to serve your community in this way, please send a letter of interest and short resume to the Borough Manager, Borough of Jefferson Hills, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. Our volunteer fire companies provide a valuable service to the Borough and its residents. These companies operate with volunteers and can always use more helping hands to accomplish their work. If you would like to know more about what it takes to be a volunteer fireman, you can call one of the following companies: Gill Hall VFD @ 412.655.9285; Floreffe VFD @ 412.384.9644; 885 VFD @ 412.384.5141.

COMMUNITY DAY The Borough has a Community Day celebration annually and would like your suggestions concerning how to make it a better event. Please feel free to contact the Borough with your ideas. Also, the Recreation Board is always in need of volunteers to assist them with Community Day planning and events. If you are able to help in this way, please contact the Borough Manager’s office at 412.655.7735.

ELECTED OFFICIALS COUNCIL Christopher W. King, President James A. Weber, Vice President J. Scott Albrecht Janice R. Cmar Vickie Ielase Tracey Khalil Kathleen Reynolds

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

Residents can help the Borough with MS4 compliance as well. One way to help is by properly disposing of tree leaves. Tree leaves and twigs should be raked up and put into a compost pile or bagged for disposal. Storm drains should be kept clear and clean. Debris should never be raked onto the street.

MAYOR Michael A. Green

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

W I N T E R

40 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

on the go...

find these things hiding in this picture.

2 0 1 1

Adopt a Pet Red

Sometimes things don’t end up the way you think they will. Take a look at me. I’m an AKC Red Beagle who was originally going to be a great hunting dog. But guess what: I hate guns! So that never panned out and I ended up here.

However, being at Animal Friends is great. I’ve discovered what I really love in life: toys! I love to play with toys and with you, and I’m always up for more. I’m very gentle and can even do well with children, as long as I’m supervised. I like going for rides in the car and I love to cuddle, too!

I like some dogs, so if you have one, my friends the Adoption Counselors would be happy to set up a meeting to see if we get along.

And good news for you humans: my adoption fee is sponsored! So you’ve got nothing to lose – come on down to Animal Friends and say hello to me, Red!

To learn more about these adoptable pets, call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002 or visit us at 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Animal Friends is a non-profit companion animal resource center serving the needs of pets and people since 1943. For more information, visit http://www.ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/.

Sophie

Sophie is a beautiful domestic shorthaired cat who asks for so little. She found herself at Animal Friends when her previous owner was no longer able to care for her.

This gray and white beauty would prefer to go to a quiet household where she can be the only cat. While quite affectionate with the people she has learned to trust, she is shy around strangers and needs time to get used to new surroundings.

If you’re looking for a loving, quiet pet then Sophie could be your perfect match! Why not stop by Animal Friends and talk to an Adoptions Counselor?

Winter Weather Safety Tips ❅ Have a snack before going outside. It will give you energy and keep your body warmer. ❅ Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face. The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. ❅ Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pants and jackets will keep you dry and warm! ❅ Never go sled riding alone. Always have a parent supervise. ❅ When you’re playing outside, go inside every once in a while to warm up. ❅ If you start to shiver or feel numb, go inside right away and tell an adult.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

Snowy Jokes

kool kids cook

What do you sing at a snowman’s birthday party? Freeze a jolly good fellow!

What do snowmen eat for breakfast? Frosted flakes! How does a snowman lose weight? He waits for the weather to get warmer! What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite! What do you call an old snowman? Water! What did one snowman say to the other snowman? Can you smell carrot?

or a mouth-pleasing, brain-boosting after school snack, try serving up some of this fun String Cheese “Slaw” with a tall glass of Omega-3 milk. It may just turn chips into a snack of the past.

String Cheese “Slaw” Prep time: 15 Minutes Servings: 6

Crayon-sized string cheese cylinders can be sliced into “buttons” or stripped into “threads,” then added to salads of all stripes. Here, the cheese strips are the main ingredient in a fun, carrot-flecked slaw. 6 Organic Valley Stringles String Cheese 1 1⁄2 cups carrot, cut into matchsticks or shredded 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (or parsley) 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons olive oil black pepper, freshly ground

Pull threads of cheese off each string cheese stick (not too thin). Toss with carrots, cilantro or parsley, lemon juice and olive oil. Add pepper to taste. For more information and coupons, visit www.organicvalley.coop

42 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

West Jefferson Hills

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined. A

ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day. And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach. “I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains, “but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.” Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company. “Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh. Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives and share advice. “It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.” Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that gives her meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of her experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.” Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking for volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help with grocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling and yard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could use some assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol, families and groups are also welcome. To learn more or become a volunteer, visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071. “It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t say enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant for storytelling, though, he probably could. West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

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Gill Hall Road IN Your Community

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West Jefferson Hills

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

cardi ♥ exercisesKeeping the Most Important Muscle Fit

hen it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through the hype and advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio machine or workout. However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said Dan Griffin, general manager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, who is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, said people are becoming more educated when it comes to their cardio workout. “People understand you do not have to do long, slow distance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showing now that low-intensity heart maintenance

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levels are just as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the kind of exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’t recite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffin said. “The higher heart levels have a whole diﬀerent physiological response and work on different parts of your body. Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those 30-40 minutes you usually dedicate to your workout and break it up.” Griffin said there are new workout machines that take advantage of that data to help athletes meet those various heart ranges. “There always are machines that are the ‘hot machines.’ In the ‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper, and now it’s treadmills, ellipticals, and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re in one plane, moving forward. With multi-angular and multi-plane machines you’re moving forward, and you’re also going left, right, forward and back,” Griffin said. “Another hot machine right now is the ArcTrainer, which is a cross between a stepper and an elliptical. With step training, few people can last long enough to make that work right, so the ArcTrainer is a favorite among tennis players and other athletes who come in.” In addition to specialized cardio machines, Griffin said circuit training still gives people a great workout. “Circuit training is still alive and well. We have trainers who take people through workouts that are as demanding as can be,” he said. “Unless you need bulk and heavy lifting, there’s a lot to be said for this functional training where you’re pushing sandbags and working out without stopping between sets. I’ve done it, and have gotten my heart rate from 130 up to 170, and it stays within that range within the whole half hour. The key though, is to do it in a circuit fashion. That way, you don’t have to stop between exercising.” Griffin said that because circuit training focuses on different muscle groups, the workouts typically are faster to get through. “Muscularly, you don’t need the rest because you’re working a diﬀerent muscle group each time,” he said. “ Cardio-wise, you may have to wait 30 seconds or so between sets, but you can definitely be fit by doing that.”

“ . . . t he b es t c ar d i o w o r k o u t d e pe n d s o n en g agi n g t he h ear t t h roug h a m ul t i t ud e of l ev el s an d w ork l o ad s . . . ”

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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Older Adults in West Jefferson Hills Tax Planning for The New Year

mericans filing federal returns can expect year-end tax planning to be a bit more complicated this time around because we don't know what the tax rates will be for 2011 just yet. The current rates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001, are due to expire on Dec. 31 of this year. So when the new rates get passed, taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared. "For this year," said Marzina, “it's very important that people be paying attention to what happens in the political spectrum in terms of tax rates for the new year and to make sure you have your advisers lined up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” Each year, an individual is allowed to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill out a gift tax return, which goes against the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Right now, this is not determined. 48 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

So you could give gifts of up to $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay a tax on it. According to the IRS, You can't deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left to a charitable organization. Federal estate taxes may have been repealed for 2010, but they are set to return on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% on estates valued at more than $1 million. In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all assets got a “step-up” in basis when someone died. This meant that no tax would have to be paid on appreciated assets like stock and real estate. But under new laws, all assets inherited may be subject to the capital gains tax. If the current administration's proposal to allow rates to expire and return to 2009's rate, the “step-up” in basis will return. Another proposal is to have most of the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and taxes on dividends and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. The Republican proposal is to extend current tax rates for a period of two years and cap dividends and capital gains at 15%.

West Jefferson Hills

by Jamie Ward

Marzina says that the question many people are asking is, if you have assets that have significant capital gains built in,

should you accelerate taxes and sell those assets in 2010 to ensure a 15% tax rate, instaed of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%? The problem here is that taxpayers won’t have a lot of time to make these decisions. According to Marzina, if the new tax laws are in place by Dec. 1, there will only be a 30-day window to make any decisions this year. So the best thing to do is make those decisions as quickly as possible.

How to Prevent Injury this Winter

by Jamie Ward

ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's the number one cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it. • If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling. And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, as a family member or neighbor to help you.

SeniorAgencies Community Program Extension 3075 Clairton Road, Suite 948, Century III Mall, West Mifflin 15123 412.532.0142 Clairton – Steel Valley Resource Center 412.233.3080 530 Miller Ave.

Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify. Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card. Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards,

which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you. ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area. Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460 Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Many Causes, Few Cures t’s the kind of thing that can come in an instant like a lightning bolt, or sneak in over the course of weeks like a persistent fog. In any form, it’s unwelcome and costs U.S. businesses millions of dollars in lost work and sick days. It’s back pain, and while it’s not totally understood, it’s totally real for millions of Americans. There are several varieties of back pain, each with their own names based on the location on the spine from which they seem to originate. One of the more common ones that you may have heard about is “lumbago,” or lower back pain. The name stems from the lumbar section of the spine, and the condition has fueled an estimated $70 billion industry in itself in physician services, self-help remedies, ointments, devices and more. America’s obsession with lumbar and its proper support has led to seats with lumbar adjustments being standard in most high-end vehicles. For those who drive economy cars, there are pillows, wedges, lattices of beads and vibrating heating pads that plug into your car’s lighter socket, each proclaiming more relief than the next.

If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, most doctors agree that compresses of warm, moist heat are the best way to cope. 50 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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Despite the accoutrements that one can purchase, few provide total relief. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because the actual causes of run-of-the-mill, everyday back pain are largely unknown. Many reasons for serious back pain are easily diagnosed because they have a direct causal basis or present with other symptoms such as weight loss, fever or incontinence. Someone in a recent car accident, for example, would know that their current back pain is a result of the collision. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been postulated that back pain may also be the result of stress at work or at home, reasons that would not show up in an MRI or X-ray. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, most doctors agree that compresses of warm, moist heat are the best way to cope. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also safe, so long as you take them as directed. Chiropractors and physical therapists may be able to suggest a stretching regimen that could alleviate some of the more common aches and pains associated with the spine. In fact, more and more chiropractors have integrated techniques into patient

visits other than the basic routine adjustment. You might be surprised to find that your first chiropractic visit may include 15 minutes of massage therapy, where warm, moist heat compresses are placed on your back, followed by 15 minutes of TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, which zings and zaps your muscles with a pleasant tingling sensation. While it all feels great, scientists are split as to whether any of it works for the long term. A study by the American Academy of Family Physicians came to the conclusion that while heat packs, deep heat, and massage are useful in the immediate relief of symptoms, long-term effectiveness is still in question, and the use of TENS therapy has demonstrated no long-term effectiveness at all. What the study did conclude is that unless the pain is the result of a deeper medical condition, like cancer or infection, exercise and patient education are the best tools out there in helping the patient in the long term.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 51

Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions This Year

hether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit over night are basically unrealistic. Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps, or realistic approaches to achievement. Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is a major factor in people not following through with their workout routines. “Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control your motivation and enthusiasm so you don’t 52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

burnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workout program every two to three months.” Hardt also said that figuring out where cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is a factor that can help them to avoid burnout. “Most people think that starting out with cardio is good because it helps to warm up muscles before weight training. Other people feel starting out with cardio may cause too much fatigue, which could lower your workout intensity and make lifting with proper form more difficult,” she said. “Truthfully, there is no right or wrong answer. Different people will need to rotate their routine differently. The best advice is to pay attention to your fitness goals. If you are focused a bit more on

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endurance, try to do your cardio first when you’ll have the most energy. On the other hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass, work the weights first before cardio.” Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good idea, and while many people make it their New Year’s resolution to get back in shape, experts agree that any health program should be focused on progressive, attainable and realistic goals. However ,it’s also a great idea not to overindulge during the holidays in the first place. Gaining 10 pounds after partying for a month, grazing cookies at the office and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for two weeks to negate those calories. While it’s a cliche, moderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray or second glass of wine in the first place.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Let Winter Slow You Down Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions 54 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

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A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.

interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather. But there are some things that are just good sense.

• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start up times until your engine is properly lubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months. • Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. • Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves. • If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress. Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. However, you can’t eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

West Jefferson Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

Tips to

Protect Your Family Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from

s another heating season begins, the Allegheny County Health Department is joining with the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County to remind residents about the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that is the by-product of incomplete combustion of a fuel. Hundreds die each year nationwide from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, but most deaths could be prevented through greater awareness and education. Thirty-one accidental poisonings were reported countywide during last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heating season, October 1 through May 31. Twenty-four poisonings, including three deaths, were associated with heating systems or vehicles left running in enclosed spaces. Common sources of carbon monoxide are a malfunctioning or incorrectly vented furnace, hot water heater, space heater, fireplace, cooking stove or other type of fuel-burning equipment. Misusing a charcoal grill or a cooking stove to warm a house and leaving a car, van or truck running in an attached or integral garage are other possible carbon monoxide sources. To prevent carbon monoxide problems, furnaces and fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected before each heating season. Carbon monoxide home alarms can help as well, but are not foolproof and no substitute for regular furnace maintenance.

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Poorly Maintained or Malfunctioning Heating Systems Are Often to Blame

Carbon monoxide poisoning may include any of the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, loss of hearing, blurry vision, vomiting, disorientation, seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, respiratory failure and cardiac arrest. Everyone is at risk, but individuals with health problems such as heart or lung diseases, the elderly, infants, children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable. Anyone who experiences symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning should leave the premises and immediately call 911. The Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition (C-MAC) is offering a free brochure entitled “What You Should Know To Protect Your Family From Carbon Monoxide.” The brochure is available through the Allegheny County Health Department by calling 412.687.ACHD or visiting its web site at www.achd.net. C-MAC is a voluntary community service group that includes emergency, fire and health officials, natural gas utilities; instrument testing companies; and heating contractors.

FREE SMOKE ALARMS FOR ALLEGHENY COUNTY RESIDENTS Focus on Homes with No Smoke Alarms or Ones Too Old to Be Reliable The Allegheny County Health Department has a free smoke alarm program for residents who have no smoke alarms or ones too old to be reliable. “Smoke alarms are proven lifesavers but only when they are in good working order,” said County Health Director Dr. Bruce W. Dixon. Nearly half of all smoke alarms don’t work because they have missing, disconnected or dead batteries or are more than 10 years old and no longer reliable. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a house fire by 50%, yet most residential fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or defective alarms. The program, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, provides and installs a maximum of two battery-operated smoke alarms per home. To schedule an installation, please call the Health Department at 412.247.7800. Visit our website at www.achd.net.

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