FALL 2011
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
West Jefferson Hills School DistrictReady for a Great Year!
Jefferson Hills Borough – Newsletter Inside!
Contents West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 |
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Publisher’s Message | 2 COMMUNITY INTEREST
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FEATURES
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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS |
West Jefferson School District | 3 Older Adults in West Jefferson Hills | 26 Jefferson Hills Borough News | 29 Real Estate in West Jefferson Hills | 39 Costa Homebuilders | 43 A Recycling Competition Where Everyone Wins | 18 How to Choose a Preschool in West Jefferson Hills | 20 The Secret Art of Getting Into College | 21 Stephen Ministries | 22 Pleasant Hills Lions Club | 24 Does Physical Fitness Affect Mental Fitness in Kids | 28 Be Aware of Key Benefits of Life Insurance | 37 Provided by Ben Lodico
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Opening the Doors to Independence & Opportunity | 48 By Denise Cavenaugh
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How to Prepare Your Home for Winter! | 51 By Sue Clark
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Will Your Insurance Protect you from a Facebook Lawsuit | 55 Provided by Rosann Cusumano Elinsky & Joann Cusumano Sciulli
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS |
| ON THE COVER
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Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, P.C. | 49 Bill Few Associates | 50 Dr Timothy McNamee with Parents and Students of McClellan Elementary School. Photo by Gary Yon Photography
Welcome to the Fall issue of West Jefferson Hills Magazine. As the summer winds down, and the kids get ready to go back to school, I sincerely hope that you and your family had some time to get away from it all and relax. It seems that these days, parents driving the family taxi, and kids with their sports/lessons/parties rarely get a chance to enjoy the slow pace of an ever more elusive “lazy summ er.” Ask yourself – when was the last time everyone ate together around a family table? When did everyone gather to play a board game? Does anyone remember board games? If your answer was “That one night that the power went out,” then you might be trapped in the 21st Century jail of hyper-life. (I made that term up, but I can do that – I’m the publisher.) I’m not an old guy, unless you ask my kids, but I think that life should be simpler. Moms, dads, brothers, sisters, should all try to spend some time with each other as a family more than that one night when the power goes out. Family time is an important part of being a community. And every community should value quality time with their families – it’s how we teach our children values, etiquette, and more importantly, how to participate in a fami ly structure so they can pass on to their kids what you worked so hard to build. Recently, I saw a commercial where a father shut off the main power to the house so that the family could enjoy dinner together and blamed the outage on a thunderstorm. The Xboxes were dead. The Facebook was closed. The kids came downstairs in disillusionment to ask what happened. While the commercial was pushing some tasty dinner product, the message was more palatable – you have to make family time. I would take that message one step further – you have to make family time a priority. I hope that it’s one of yours. Have a great Fall!
FALL 2011 IN West Jefferson Hills is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Jefferson Hills area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Garyyonphotography.com A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
Wayne Dollard Publisher In this Fall edition of West Jefferson Hills Magazine you’ll find interesting topics related to education. We thought it was appropriate to address this issue as all of us can somehow relate to the “back to school” idea. The notion of continually learning something new whether in middle school or as an older adult in the West Jefferson Hills community, is not a new concept, just one we should consider as the seasons change. We work very closely with the West Jefferson Hills School District. I know that Dr. Tim McNamee and his entire staff have been working diligently all summer to get ready for the return of the West Jefferson Hills students! I thought it was wonderful news that the district had passed a balanced budget and that there would be NO tax increase! Congratulations to the administration and board for a fine job! I hope you will let me know if you run into some person or organization that you think we should be writing about in the magazine. You can email me at m.jeffries@icmags.com
Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Winter content deadline: November 10 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
2 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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WEST JEFFERSON HILLS
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
SCHOOL DISTRICT
INSIDE West Jefferson Hills School District Message from Dr. Timothy McNamee The 2011-2012 school year is about to begin. For me, this is the 41st time that I have started a new school year as a teacher or an administrator, and this year is just as exhilarating as the first time! It is my honor to begin my 2nd year as Acting Superintendent at the West Jefferson Hills School District. I cannot believe that there are many careers more rewarding than that of TEACHER. [Administrators are first and foremost teachers.] Every new school year brings change. Change is an important aspect of our philosophy of continuous improvement. There will be some new faces, and many familiar faces, in the Special Education Department due to the transfer of some teachers from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit to the faculty of West Jefferson Hills. Additionally, paraprofessionals were hired to support special education students throughout the school district. Some elementary school teachers have elected to move to other classes or schools. Administratively, in order to operate more efficiently in these difficult economic times, two administrative positions were eliminated. We all wish Mrs. Peggy Sollon the best on her retirement as we welcome Mr. Justin Liberatore as the new principal at McClellan Elementary School. Mr. Dennis Sobzcak was recently employed as the new Director of Facilities. Another change for new students enrolling in the WJHSD is the Central Registration process. Instead of enrolling new students at each school, parents or guardians will complete the registration process at the Administration Building. Enrollment packets and instructions are available at each school, at the Administration Building, and on the district’s website. Mrs. Mimi Haley directs that program. As mentioned earlier, we are all experiencing the effects of a poor economy, and the WJHSD is no exception. The media has publicized unprecedented funding cuts to public school districts from Harrisburg and Washington, D.C. Our school district had to cut expenditures and creatively find some new ways to increase revenues. The good news, at least for this year, is that the School Board approved a balanced budget with no local tax increase and without furloughing any teachers. Even though we will have to tighten our belts in some areas, the promise of continuous improvement will carry forward. By rallying together, we (School Board, Administrators, Teachers, Support Personnel, Parents, and Community Partners) will take on challenges and keep West Jefferson Hills SD among the finest districts in Pennsylvania. To help get the school district off to a very positive start, we recently received notification that Jefferson Elementary School has been awarded the Highmark Healthy High5 Grant. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Department of Education has sent notice that all of our schools achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) based on the Pennsylvania State System of Assessment (PSSA). Welcome back to another wonderful school year in the West Jefferson Hills School District! Dr. Timothy F. McNamee Acting Superintendent West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
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West Jefferson Hills School District Harrisburg Public Officials EXECUTIVE Governor Tom Corbett governor@state.pa.us 717-787-2500 S TAT E R E P R E S E N TAT I V E Rick Saccone (Jefferson Hills & W. Elizabeth) rsaccone@pahousegop.com 717-260-6122 Bill Kortz (Pleasant Hills) bkortz@pahouse.net 717-787-8175 S TAT E S E N AT O R John Pippy (Jefferson Hills & Pleasant Hills) jpippy@pasen.gov 717-787-5839 Tim Solobay (W. Elizabeth) tsolobay@pasenate.com 717-787-1463
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dear West Jefferson Hills Community Residents, On behalf of the West Jefferson Hills Board of School Directors, welcome back to the beginning of another school year! To those of you who are new to our West Jefferson Hills School District family, we extend our warm welcome and best wishes for a year of learning new things and building new friendships! We hope that you and your families have enjoyed the summer break and that this season has provided you the chance to rest, relax, and refresh yourselves as we continue the next steps of our journey together as a school community. Once again, we thank you for your active partnership in the education of your children and for your support of our public schools. We understand that our success is not possible without the constant and unwavering support that you provide as parents, mentors, and volunteers. The core mission of public education in our democratic society is to create informed American citizens. This is an awesome responsibility – one that is impossible without you. Together with you, we play a role in helping make this world a better place – through them. As we thank you for your past support, we must also ask you to assume additional responsibilities as citizens and advocates for your children and our schools, as we start this new school year. It is a responsibility that you share with us, the Board of School Directors - because the wagons are circling public education. State funding has been cut in our District by almost one million dollars. We dodged the bullet – this year. Act 1 exceptions to referendum have been severely limited, threatening the continued viability of many school districts. Cyber school tuition continues to siphon limited public dollars out of public school classrooms, with little to no accountability for student performance expected from these schools of “choice.” A new brick-and-mortar charter school, located in a neighboring district, is currently accepting students, accompanied by their taxpayer-funded tuition, from their residents as well as those in neighboring school districts. Barring any changes to No Child Left Behind, all public school districts will be considered “failing” by the year 2014. And did we mention that the well-funded pro-voucher lobby intends to renew its push for a voucher program with no accountability for either fiscal transparency or student performance during the fall legislative season? We must work together to be a collective voice for public education, because never in our lifetimes has public education been under attack to the extent it is today. Please make it a priority to add the email address and phone numbers of your elected officials in Harrisburg and Washington DC to a distribution list in your email address book. Never before has so much been at stake. Thank you for all of your efforts. Your calls, emails, and letters to our state public officials do make a difference. Please know that we as a board welcome your thoughts and look forward to working with you. Thank you again for all that you do in making West Jefferson Hills a great place to live and work. With Sincerest Regards, The Board of School Directors Shauna D’Alessandro, Board President Anthony Angotti, Board Vice President Deborah Pozycki, Board Vice President Carolyn Bourgeois Alan Caponi Dr. David Graham Anna Louise Lilley Marianne Neel Anthony Rash
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The West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for
Grant Awardees for the 2010-11 School Year
Education supports and encourages the development of educational opportunities that enhance and improve student achievement. The Foundation Board Members represent all three communities of the school district - Louise Biddle and Daryl Celestino from West Elizabeth; Tom Cochran from Jefferson Boro; Dave La Frankie and Carlene Garrity from Pleasant Hills and Board members Marianne Neel as President, Shauna D’Alessandro and Carolyn Bourgeois. The Foundation
Megan Curley from Gill Hall Elementary for her proposal - Orff Instrument Ensemble Music Library (4th and 5th grade chorus) to acquire instruments and the Carl Orff methodologies of teaching music – incorporate movement, music reading, experimental learning and improvisation into the children’s every day music experience. From Jefferson Elementary sharing the grant were Lori Gephart, Susan Reynolds, Stephanie Martinis and Adriane Rybka with Write, Design, Read to develop reading and writing skills to create, publish and share a fictional story. Dean Stefl with Science Olympiad with a series of hands on science activities called Lab Ratz Laurie Conboy and Dustin Guidash with PE Live use technological skills to allow students to view their skills learned through Physical Education From McClellan Elementary the awardees were Jennifer Knopp and Bethany Hirsh for Classbook Project for students to gain an understanding of the writing process and complete a published book. From PHMS Jennifer Cramer was successful with Trout-a-Palooza to increase students knoeledge and understanding of water quality and coldwater conservation through the release of Brook trout into Peters Creek. Danna Corsini, Bill Martinis, Jill Mellinger, Lindsey Mitko, and Adam Zunic for The Amazing Race to introduce cultures and tradition from around the world. From TJHS recipients were Ken Gruntz and Scott Houck for their grant on Solar Possibilities to make students gain a better understanding of energy efficiency and solar energy.
approved the enrichment “PAW”sibilities Mini Grants Program for our schools in March of this year.
The West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for Education is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. The Education Foundation Board comprises of members of the West Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills, and Pleasant Hills community and members of the administration team of the school district. Your donations to the Foundation help support and strengthen educational standards and enrich classrooms in our school district. Donations can be mailed to: West Jefferson Hills School District Foundation for Education c/o Hamsini Rajgopal 835 Old Clairton Road Jefferson Hills, Pa 15025
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
We at Jefferson Elementary School take this opportunity to welcome back our students, parents and friends to the 2011 – 2012 school year. We also extend a warm welcome to the new members of our school community, our new kindergarten and transfer students and families. Jefferson Elementary may be a large building but we maintain a small school attitude. We have highly qualified teachers, professional clerical staff, a caring nurse, and a maintenance team that provides a safe and clean environment. Parents are encouraged to become a member of the Parent Teachers Association; this organization is an integral part of our school community providing the extras to enhance our setting for all of the students. Jefferson Elementary strives to preserve an environment that is child centered with open communication between the classroom and home. We provide an educational experience that meets the needs of all of our students and provides them the strategies necessary to be successful in the 21st century. Our classrooms in third through fifth grade are equipped with smart boards to enhance the classroom setting with technology and real world experiences. In kindergarten through second grade classrooms are equipped with Elmo projectors that enable teachers to project a variety of media as well as a work area where student and teacher work can be displayed. We are proud of our academic successes which are documented by our excellent scores on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment. Teachers participate in subject curriculum writing to ensure that the classroom is providing the latest concepts to master the state standards and requirements. We set our standards high and provide the education to reach this goal. Many of our programs are used to enhance the educational experience. We use a hands-on science program (ASSET) that provides not only the content but an experience where students participate in experiments and opportunities to discover the world of Science. Every spring the fifth grade experiences a River Quest, a journey on the rivers in Pittsburgh performing experiments in a classroom onboard a ship. This is a culminating activity of a classroom unit involving ecology. Students perform the same experiments as scientists testing the quality and ecosystem of our rivers. In the main hallway on the first floor and the upstairs computer lab we have monitors that display the data provided by our WeatherBug@ weather center. Depending upon the grade level, students are provided opportunities to participate in a variety of competitions including the National Geography Bee, National Spelling Bee, Math 24, and several that involve writing to a specific topic. This past year several of our teachers were successful in writing grants that will enhance their classrooms. The grants will provide additional technology for the Art Department and a climbing wall for the 6
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gymnasium. Jefferson Elementary provides the Accelerated Reading Program to enhance our reading curriculum; students select books to read on their level and upon completion, take a small quiz to check for comprehension. To motivate students to read, we use wide range activities such as Score a Touchdown and March Madness to display their successes for all students to see. Students having difficulty in reading are provided assistance in our Title 1 program. Reading Specialists provide support in and out of the classroom. The Title 1 computer labs are equipped with the Fast Forword program; it is designed to help students starting with basic sounds and expands to address fluency and comprehension concerns. The student growth is documented and proven to be an excellent remediation tool. Students who qualify for the enrichment program are provided the opportunity to be a member of a team that will compete against other schools in other districts in a variety of subject areas. Academics are not the only successes of Jefferson Elementary; our students participate in activities that help other children in and out of our community. The Jefferson Elementary students participate in two fund raising opportunities Jump Rope for Heart and the Juvenile Diabetes Walkathon. In the past we have raised several thousand dollars to support these programs. The fifth grade of Jefferson Elementary will have the opportunity to enroll in special programs provided by the teachers of special areas during lunchtime recess. They include Physical Education, Art, Music and Library. In the area of Physical Education students sign up to participate on an intramural team for: 3 on 3 touch football, basketball, and hockey. Every student has the opportunity to participate. In order to play team members have to maintain academic and behavior standards. Students also have the opportunity to sign up for the other curricular areas for a 9 week class. The music teachers provide additional music experiences in choral and flutes. In Art, students will be creating murals to beautify the building. The Library offers a readers circle where students read a book and discuss the literary elements and authors style. Jefferson Elementary is a building of brick and mortar but the people make it special. We believe in our students and want to provide them the best educational experience. Each year, displayed in our hallway is a quilt honoring each of our fifth grade students. This “Stitch in Time” remembers our students and their contribution to Jefferson Elementary. Upon the completion of the new quilt, the replaced quilt will be moved to the cafeteria to be displayed for future 5th graders. Presently we have a quilt for each year Jefferson Elementary has been in operation. Every morning WJES television records morning announcements that are shown in each of our classrooms. Jefferson Elementary is a school where the students are our assets. Fifth Grade Day
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
From the Principal, Faculty and Staff at Gill Hall Elementary we wish all of our West Jefferson Hills students a Happy New Year! The start of a new school year is definitely a time for celebration. We bid good-bye to our lazy days of summer and prepare for this new beginning, carefully selecting school outfits and school supplies in excited anticipation of the “first day.”
Thank you to the PTA Board for taking on this endeavor with dedication and passion! An advanced thank you goes out to all PTA Committee members and chairpersons for all of their help. The students definitely benefit from your positive collaboration. 8 West Jefferson Hills
Filled with excitement, trepidations, and endless possibilities, the 20112012 school year promises to provide our students educational opportunity, academic success, dedicated teachers, creative arts, encouragement and support. To better meet the individual needs of our students, we welcome our new para- professional staff as well as welcoming Mrs. Hrvatin back to the first grade classroom. It is the dedication of our staff and the support of our parents that make Gill Hall a truly special place to be. I cannot wait to meet all of our new kindergarten students, whose astounding “endless curiosity” marks the beginning of their educational journey as well as students new to Gill Hall this year. I am also looking forward to seeing our returning students and hearing their great summer break stories. A heartfelt “THANK YOU” goes out to our summer cleaning crew who has been diligently working through this season’s record breaking heat to ensure that our building shines. Their hard work and dedication is truly appreciated. One of my favorite quotes is “Education is a journey, not a destination”. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this amazing journey with your children. Sincerely, Principal Tina Mayer and the faculty and staff at Gill Hall Elementary
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WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
McClellan Elementary School would like to welcome back all of our returning students for the 2011-2012 school year. We are also excited for our new kindergarten students, and any other students that have recently moved into our community, to join our family. Yes, that’s what we are here, a family. McClellan has the most caring and welcoming staff, and I feel lucky that I have been given the opportunity to join this family. Prior to taking over for Mrs. Sollon as the Principal for the 2011-2012 school year, I was the Vice Principal at Pleasant Hills Middle School. The three years I spent at the middle school have given me a chance to really get to know this community and the families we work with. I have probably met many of you through older brothers or sisters, and I plan to continue working hand-in-hand with you to provide the best educational experience for your children attending McClellan. I have also had teaching experience at the elementary level. Just four years ago, I was teaching 4th grade at South Fayette Elementary school. And before moving back to Pittsburgh, I taught 5th grade at an elementary school in Charlotte, NC. I am also lucky to have a 1st grade teacher at home, my wife Anne, and two small children (Logan – 4 and Savannah 2 ½ ). Though my elementary teaching experience was in the upper grades, my family at home is a constant reminder of the needs at all age levels. Kids are kids, no matter what age. They want to know they are being cared for, someone is looking out for them, someone is listening to them… that they are part of a family. And that is exactly what McClellan Elementary school will provide for your child. This past year, McClellan had many exciting events and activities that our students took part in. We look forward to continuing all of these for the 2011-2012 school year as well. On one of my visits to the school last year, I was lucky enough to attend Sing Me A Story. This was the third year that students from McClellan participated in this fun and educational show for parents. This music-filled show combined music and reading, and showcased many popular books. Parents enjoyed seeing their children perform, while students enjoyed singing about some of their favorite books. Each grade level had their own book and song to sing during the show. While some students acted out parts of the book, others had reading parts or played instruments. This wonderful event was coordinated by McClellan’s music teacher Amy Davidson. 10
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Queen of Hearts from WQED visited the first graders at McClellan Elementary each month from October to May. The students enjoyed “Stories on the Move.” Each month the Queen had a different theme to her stories and activities. Some themes included working together, being a good friend, playing fair and having respect, which were all aligned with Pennsylvania’s state academic standards and were formatted for all learning styles. The students and teachers were excited for her visits each month. We will be rolling out the red carpet again this year, and look forward to having the Queen of Hearts visit! Students from every grade level enjoyed DARE classes throughout the year at McClellan. Lieutenant Kelly of the Pleasant Hills Police Department met with grade levels kindergarten through fourth during the 2010-11 school year. Activities and discussions were enjoyed by the students. Chief Cunningham of the Pleasant Hills Police Department met with fifth graders for a 12-week course of classes, which included drug resistance education. At the conclusion of the course, a DARE graduation was held at McClellan. Many awards were given to exemplary students in the DARE classes. The DARE program has been taught at McClellan for the past 17 years! Over 120 students from McClellan participated in this year’s Kids of Steel Pittsburgh Marathon for children. Each student ran 25 miles individually, whether at home or at school gym class, kept a log of their miles, and then ran their last mile together at the Pittsburgh Marathon in May. This great event was coordinated at McClellan by physical education teacher Marie Bartoletti. We look forward to even more students participating in May 2012, and you can count on me to have my running shoes laced up! Speaking of running, I can’t wait for the first day of school to get this school year off and running. I can’t wait to meet your child with open arms and welcome them to our family… the McClellan family. Sincerely, Justin Liberatore Principal West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Pleasant Hills Middle School 2011-12 School Year
Pleasant Hills Middle School is home to the district’s sixth, seventh and eighth grade students. As part of the West Jefferson Hills School District, we are members of the Jaguar Family. Our goal is for all students to display their Jaguar P.R.I.D.E. on a daily basis. • Jaguars are Prepared each day for their classes and activities. • Jaguars show Respect for staff members and fellow students. • Jaguars value their Individuality and do not always go along with the crowd. • Jaguars exhibit Determination when faced with difficult and challenging situations. • Jaguars put forth their best Effort with each task they undertake. Each month students are nominated and recognized for showing their P.R.I.D.E. When our students display their Jaguar P.R.I.D.E., it makes Pleasant Hills Middle School a better place to learn. Thanks to the efforts of our students and staff, PHMS has earned the prestigious Keystone Achievement Award from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for nine consecutive years! Way to go Jaguars! 12
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Pleasant Hills Middle School will host a Sixth Grade Orientation and Open House on Monday, August 22nd from 6:30-8:30 PM. All incoming sixth grade students and their families are invited to attend. Students will have the opportunity to review their schedule, meet classmates, practice locker combinations and have a better idea of what to expect the first day of middle school. Sixth grade teachers will be present to introduce themselves and discuss general information about their classes. Student ambassadors, PTO volunteers and the office staff will be on hand to assist the students and answer any questions concerning the upcoming school year. We look forward to meeting all of our new students and their families. “Remembering 9/11: Honoring American Courage” will be the focus of Pleasant Hills Middle School’s school-wide unit for the 2011-2012 school year. The theme was chosen to commemorate the ten year anniversary of September 11, 2001 (The middle school students were only one to four years old when the events of 9/11 took place). Teachers in all subject areas will develop lessons and activities focusing on the events of September 11th and how we as Americans responded in the days and years following. The unit will also include trips to Shanksville, PA to visit the Flight 93 Memorial and a one day trip to Washington DC. Students and staff will sponsor a number of fundraising opportunities to pay for the educational trips. PHMS will also host guest speakers and plan a special Veteran’s Day Program to honor our servicemen and servicewomen. Promethean Boards for all Science and Social Studies Teachers Middle school students will have a new technological tool to use in their science and social studies classrooms for the 2011-12 school year. The district was able to purchase twelve new Promethean boards for Pleasant Hills Middle School through an Accountability Block Grant from the PA Department of Education at the end of last school year. Promethean Boards are interactive whiteboards that engage students wit h vivid images, video and audio. According to the Promethean website, the Promethean Board “enables anything that can be seen or done on a computer screen to be projected onto an interactive whiteboard – bringing every classroom to life”. Teachers will have access to online units, lesson tips and student engagement activities. Social Studies teacher and Department Coordinator, Keith Pancoast shared he is “excited about the opportunity to have students actively involved in the social studies lessons. It is a chance to make history come alive!” We look forward to developing classroom activities that actively engage our students.
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PHMS School Trip Fund Raiser: USA Car Cruise On Saturday, September 10, 2011, Pleasant Hills Middle School will host a USA Car Cruise at the middle school field and parking lot from 12-4 PM. Come out for a great day of classic cars, great music, food and fun. Registration for car owners is $5/car. Numerous prizes will be awarded. All proceeds benefit the middle school trips to Shanksville, PA (Site of the Flight 93 Memorial) and Washington DC. Remember to wear your red, white and blue and show your USA Pride! Algebra I math course now offered to PHMS 8th grade students. A number of 8th grade students will have an opportunity to complete Algebra I during the 2011-12 school year. The school district will transition from the Integrated math curriculum to a more traditional math curriculum for students in grades eight through twelve. The change is taking place based on a math curriculum review by the middle school and high school math department teachers. After analyzing the math curriculum and student performance data on PSSA’s and local assessments, the teachers identified a need to provide more explicit instruction in algebraic and geometrical concepts. The teachers recommended phasing out the Integrated math program at the middle school and high school levels and transitioning to a curriculum which offers Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II. The transition to a traditional math curriculum will provide students a deeper knowledge and skill base for individual math courses, meet the more rigorous requirements of the Common Core Standards for Math and better prepare students for the PSSA Math Assessment and the Keystone Exam for Algebra.
WJHSD Summer Technology Boot Camp for Teachers The West Jefferson Hills’ Technology Integration Committee sponsored the first annual Technology Boot Camp for teachers in June 2011. The goal of the boot camp was to improve teacher’s knowledge of technological tools that will help improve teaching and learning in the classroom. Teachers chose workshops on Wikis, Blogs, Website Design, Presentation and Organizational Tools, Digital Storytelling, Video/Photo, Interactive Whiteboards, and Microsoft Office. The workshops were taught by members of the Technology Integration Committee, and the boot camp served eightytwo teachers from all three levels – elementary, middle, and high
PHMS welcomes our new vice principal, Dr. Cindi Fuselier. Dr. Fuselier previously served as the Supervisor of Academic Programs for West Jefferson Hills School District. Prior to coming to West Jefferson Hills, Cindi was Director of Curriculum in the New Brighton School District. Dr. Fuselier began her educational career as a high school English teacher at Trinity High School in Washington, PA. Dr. Fuselier earned all of her degrees from Duquesne University: B.S. in secondary education, M.S. in School Psychology, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. When Dr. Fuselier is not at Pleasant Hills Middle School, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Pete, her Maine Coon cat, Lily, and gardening, golfing, and quilting. She enthusiastically looks forward to working with the faculty, staff, and students at Pleasant Hills Middle School.
8th Grade Algebra Photo: Instructors Mr. David Hiller and Mrs. Katie O'Keefe review some basics of Algebra I with Isaiah Warfield and Josh Francis (Front Row), Josh Schmidt and Ryan Beveridge (Middle Row) and Frankie Langan (Last Row). Technology Boot Camp: 7th Grade Math Teacher Lindsey Mitko leads a technology session on Website Design with middle school teachers Dan Hrvatin, Keith Pancoast and Katie O'Keefe.
school - throughout the three days. Reading teacher Debbie Curry from PHMS thought the boot camp was a great opportunity. She plans to use a Wiki to interest her students in different types of books and possibly have her students share book ideas to allow other students opportunities to select books that their classmates find appealing. Technology Boot Camp teacher Lindsey Mitko said that she gets excited about instructional technology and was glad to have the opportunity to share her enthusiasm with her colleagues. Thank you to the Technology Integration Committee for planning the boot camp and individual sessions. The members are: Dr. Cynthia Fuselier, Suhail Baloch, Travis Chropka, Kevin Conner (AIU3), Carlotta DelVecchio, Michael Dobos, Timothy Haselhoff, Stephen Lauso, Justin Liberatore, Lindsey Mitko, Dennis Peterson, and Frank Staffen. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
The “First Day of School” brings renewed energy and excitement as we, at Thomas Jefferson High School, continue to strive for educational excellence, student achievement and individual success. We hope you have had an enjoyable and relaxing summer. Our “TJ Traditions,” which began weeks before the start of school, showcased the Jaguar Band preparing to take the field and the dedication of our student athletes who participated in the fall sport camps This year, as in the past, our focus will be on the Three A's of Success: Academic Achievement, Attendance, and Attitude. Our teachers have redefined their curricula and teaching strategies and we are assessing creative scheduling options to accommodate the academic needs of our students. Diligent review of our current procedures resulted in procedural improvements, which will enhance the daily operation and climate of the building. New techniques for our well established traditions! Our strength and inspiration emanate from our core which is built upon strong community support. Our goal is to continue and improve upon this relationship as we jointly embark upon our quest for academic excellence and the impressive traditions of Thomas Jefferson High School. Parental support, student involvement, and active teacher engagement are the keys to a successful and meaningful educational experience We are proud to embrace and advocate all of those components at Thomas Jefferson High School. “TJ Connections” (formerly the PTSA) is ready to support and enhance the programs and services available at TJ and I urge all parents to become actively involved in this organization. To gain the most from your high school experience, I also encourage students to participate in one or more of the quality co-curricular programs available that provide the excitement and connection students need for establishing relationships and enjoying high school to its fullest potential. At Thomas Jefferson High School, our teaching staff, support staff, and administrators strive to provide an educational experience that is safe, academically challenging, friendly and supportive for every student On behalf of the faculty, staff and administration, I would like to welcome you back to school and wish you a productive and positive learning experience year. Sincerely, Timothy Haselhoff Principal, Thomas Jefferson High School 14
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• WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT • WEST JEFFERSON
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
WEST ELIZABETH JEFFERSON HILLS PLEASANT HILLS
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
ALERTNOW
AlertNow is a rapid communication system adopted by the West Jefferson Hills School District. The system has the ability to send messages in the event of an emergency. We anticipate using it to notify parents of school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather; as well as remind you about various events, including open house, field trips, and more. These messages can be delivered via a phone call, email, and SMS text messaging at rates of up to 2.5 million per hour. AlertNow can also interface with the district’s student information system to alert parents and guardians about unscheduled student absences. The system will continue to be used in addition to announcements about delays or school closings and other emergencies on television and the school district’s website. This is an integral part of our initiative to enhance parent communication and we look forward to having the ability to deliver real time information on emergencies and other school activities to you. A letter is also being mailed to all parents with information about Alert Now.
Title I Performance Report The 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. One hundred percent of the West Jefferson Hills 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. 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 our Title I program or about your child’s teacher, please call Mr. Dennis Peterson, Jefferson Elementary Principal, 412.655.4163. Dr. Cynthia Fuselier West Jefferson Hills School District Director of Federal Programs Vice Principal, Pleasant Hills Middle School 404 Old Clairton Road Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412.655.8680 ext 7224 cfuselier@wjhsd.net
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1According to Earth 911.com News, over 7 billion pounds of polyvinyl chloride (PVC, a type of plastic) are thrown away in the U.S. each year. Only about 1 quarter of 1 percent is recycled. It makes a person think. But one man wanted to do more than just think. He saw some of his neighbors taking advantage of the recycling program in his neighborhood, while many others didn’t seem to be interested in participating at all. He began to wonder if there was something that could be done to create awareness of the recycling program and how to inspire people to take part.
Andrew Baram had always had a passion for recycling and taking care of the environment. A native of Philadelphia, Baram and his family moved to Mt. Lebanon nine years ago. “This is a garden spot!” says Baram, “I know people will want to preserve this if they are just aware of how easy it is.” That’s how the idea of a recycling competition came to Baram. He formulated an idea where the different boroughs of the south hills could compete for the largest increase in the amount of recycled items. He approached Mt. Lebanon Public Works Director Tom Kelley with the idea and it was quickly put into action with Mt. Lebanon coordinating the competition.
Eight south hills communities are participating in the competition, Mt. Lebanon, Dormont, Baldwin, Brentwood, Jefferson Hills, Peters, Pleasant Hills, Scott and South Park. They will vie to win the Trash Bin Trophy. The competition was put forth in Jan. 2011 by the Waste Reduction Committee of Mt. Lebanon. There will be a prize for the largest percentage increase of homes participating in recycling and also the largest increase in total tonnage of recycled items. Since the boroughs all have different population size, this gives the competition a level playing field, since it will be based on comparing the borough’s previous year of recycling. Although Mt. Lebanon and South Park appear to be in the lead at the present time, all boroughs have experienced dramatic increases in the amount of recycled materials and the competition will continue until the end of the year. On a personal level, Baram really does practice what he preaches. He takes the bus to work to his downtown job, he regularly composts and his family of four produces less than a bag of garbage a week! “It’s so easy to recycle now that Single-Stream Recycling is in place,”
West Jefferson Hills
says Baram. Single Stream basically means that residents no longer have to sort items into categories such as glass, paper, cardboard, etc. Baram also notes that many families are not recycling cardboard. “I know some people who are recycling, but they are not recycling cardboard. I just think awareness is the major issue here.” Another item for the recycling bin are aseptic containers. Aseptic containers are the square boxes used for liquids such as drink boxes and milk. We now have recycling plants that have the capability to re-use these containers in the Pittsburgh area. Baram, who describes himself as the unofficial chair of the Waste Reduction Committee of Mt. Lebanon, hopes that this competition will become an annual event and that recycling grows because of it. Some local corporate sponsors have pitched in to help promote the contest with a $500 sponsorship. They include PNC Bank, Waste Management, Allied Waste and Green Star Recycling. Besides corporate sponsors, Baram has also tried to integrate his recycling efforts with the local school district. He coordinated with Mt. Lebanon High School to produce a short video detailing the entire process of recycling. Eventually he feels that landfill space may become so scare it will create a ‘pay as you go’ situation where residents will be asked to pay for exactly what they throw out. One European country already has a similar plan in place for reducing consumption. Ireland began charging 15-cents for each plastic bag disposed of in 2002. Just a year later, plastic bag use had dropped by 90 percent. The idea is that paying for what is thrown away, increases awareness of consumption. Awareness has certainly helped increase recycling in Jefferson Hills, but the convenience of single-stream recycling may have helped even more. According to Doug Arndt, Borough Manager, “residents from the borough showed their commitment to the community by stepping up their efforts to recycle”. Awareness about the program was publicized on the borough web site. If there is another competition next year, we definitely plan to participate, stated Arndt. 1Wills, A. (2010, May 24). The Numbers on Plastics. Earth911.com. Retrieved June 2010 from http://earth911.com/news/2010/05/24/the-numbers-on-plastics/
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Preschool-aged children are defined by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education as 2.5 to 5 years. These are some of the most crucial learning years of a child’s life. In fact a child’s ability to pick up languages peaks in the first three to four years of a child’s life. Also by the age of four, a child has begun to learn the concept of sharing and begins more social interaction with his peers. For this reason, choosing a preschool may be as important as choosing a college will be in later years. According to Bob Santo, who has over 20 years of experience working with children and is owner of the Goddard School in Peters Township, there are several key points that a parent should seriously consider before enrolling their child in a preschool. First of all, are the teachers certified in CPR and first aid? Although the State of Pennsylvania only requires one individual to be on the premises who is certified, a far more ideal situation is a school that requires all of its staff to be certified. Also, be sure to examine the educational level of the staff. Pennsylvania preschool teachers are not required by law to have a 4-year degree; although some schools employ only those with bachelor degrees. Another important aspect of any school is the décor. Is it a bright and cheerful environment that encourages learning and play? Does it lend itself well to creativity and physical activities? Santo also feels that a school that emphasizes multicultural activities is important, because we live in a multicultural world. At his particular school, Spanish and sign language classes
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are taught as an ongoing curriculum. Santo points out, “It was once thought that teaching a child several languages at a young age would only confuse them. But we now know that children have an amazing ability to compartmentalize languages, without mixing English with Spanish or [other languages.] In fact, they have the ability to learn up to four languages at this age.” Do your homework! Make sure that your child’s preschool is accredited by a well-known and established
accreditation organization. Although the State of Pennsylvania audits preschools to make sure safety requirements are met, no particular academic standards are required. Santo estimates that less than 30% of preschools are accredited. In the West Jefferson Hills area there are over 15 accredited preschools to choose from when making a decision. Parents can explore the best options of each to make certain the program fits their child rearing philosophy. Finally make sure that your child’s school has an open door policy where parents are welcomed at any time to visit the school and to observe classes. This ensures the integrity of the school and its staff.
The
of Getting Into
By Leigh Lyons
he secret art of getting into college, sadly, does not exist. Please don’t be mad at my misleading title because while there is no one key element to gaining acceptance into the college of your dreams, there are proven elements to a successful candidate’s application portfolio that can be shared with prospective students. The obvious top elements of importance to admissions officers are still SATs and high school GPA, but there is so much more that a school is looking for. Below is a list of the top five elements that admissions officers look for in a prospective student’s application (information compiled from top news magazines and former admissions officers from various schools): SATs and GPA: SATs and GPA have always been important, and they are still the most important aspects of a student’s application profile. Extracurricular Activities: Colleges don’t want a long list of random activities from a student. They would prefer you to become a “specialist” in one area, rather than be a jackof-all-trades. A former admissions officer at a top school said that colleges are looking to have a well-rounded student body of individual specialists. Personal Essays: Show the real you. They don’t want you to make up extravagant stories, and they don’t want you to talk about taboo subjects such as natural disasters. Also, you do not want to become redundant. Explore new ways to tell more about yourself without being repetitive. Start Early: Most academic advisors will tell
you to have a plan, and start early. The “Common Application” that is used by many schools is not available until August 1, but usually there is an early version available to get ahead. Be Careful About Social Media: Social media has become an intricate part of everyday life to students, but they must be careful. Admissions officers will not usually search specifically for a student’s social media profile/account, but oftentimes “tips” are sent to them, and they must explore them. Do not have anything discouraging on your profile that could be used a gainst you. You may also use this space to show your talents; if you are a photographer, you can have a portfolio of pictures you have taken.
We hope that this quick list will help you in your quest to be accepted into whichever college you choose, but remember, there really is no set formula in the application process. The best way to go about the application process is to be prepared, be organized, and be yourself. Sometimes you can have excellent grades, and a great score on the SAT, but you may be denied admission for reasons outside of your control. A former admissions officer said that a student who lives on a farm in North Dakota is not judged by the same criteria as a student living in a Pennsylvania suburb, like Upper St. Clair. This is something you cannot control, and therefore should not worry about. Just do the best you can with the main elements you can control, and we wish you the best of luck in the college application process. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
by Judith Schardt
ccording to the Corporation for National and Community Service, about 63.4 million Americans, or 26.8 percent of the adult population, gave 8.1 billion hours of volunteer service worth $169 billion in 2009. The estimated dollar value of volunteer time for 2010 in Pennsylvania was $20.51 per hour. Charities and religious organizations rely heavily on their volunteers and if asked could probably not put a price on their value; their time, talents, and energy in making a difference. It is no different for the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church (PHCPC) at 199 Old Clairton Road, Pleasant Hills, PA. Their vision is “To glorify God, to make disciples, and to meet human need.” The numerous volunteers of the church certainly meet the needs of others and are essential in continuing the mission of the church. They answer the office phones, perform maintenance on church grounds, teach Sunday school, visit those who are in the hospital, send
support and care; they agree to participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders; they promise to preserve the confidential nature of the caring relationship; they agree to serve for a minimum of two years in the Stephen Ministry, and lastly, they seek continuing education and acquire new service-oriented skills throughout their years of service. Stephen Ministers are highly regarded members of the church and community. When you ask anyone at the church about them, you are told that the volunteers participating in the ministry multiply the Christian care-giving and outreach programs. The Stephen Ministers form one part of the church’s care-giving team, complementing the care already offered by the pastors. The Stephen Ministry program
cards, and call or send meals to the sick, grieving and housebound. Members of the congregation even send college students care packages to their dorm or apartment to let them know that people are thinking of them. Volunteers will pray for you and your family in hard times and rejoice with you in celebrating the good things in life. Perhaps the most amazing volunteers at PHCPC are the Stephen Ministers. They are a group of highly trained and dedicated individuals from the church who are there to walk beside you through challenging times. The Stephen Ministry is a program that equips congregation members to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to both the congregation and community. Stephen Ministers are committed Christians who meet certain criteria: they express God’s care through their lives to others; they receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts and are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing that training; they commit to visit another person regularly and dependably and offer Christian
enhances outreach endeavors by creating a safe, caring environment where many (instead of a few) can offer God’s love and care in intentional, orderly methods. Those that volunteer their time, heart and patience enable the church’s entire congregation to become a warm, loving, nurturing community where people are cherished and cared for as if they were family. The Stephen Ministers are the window of the congregation, showing to the neighborhood that PHCPC is a place where people’s needs are taken seriously. Life presents many blessings but also many hardships that leave us reeling with emotions. At any time, any one of us could find ourselves in a frightening or trying and completely unexpected situation that requires care, a kind word, a prayer or the support of another person, a Christian friend, a Stephen Minister! These needs include but are not limited to the hospitalized, the aging and elderly, the terminally ill and their
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exhausted and stressed families, those with disabilities, those experiencing relationship troubles, unemployment woes, those experiencing spiritual crises and people who feel lonely due to a sudden move into the community. Stephen Ministry is a completely confidential ministry; those receiving care can be assured that their identity and what goes on in the caring relationship will remain totally private. Taking on the responsibilities of a Ministry volunteer takes much time, dedication and strength. It is not easy being a comfort to someone with terrible problems while keeping it confidential, being positive, cheerful and strong for those needing your services. They can suffer burn out, sadness, hopelessness in hearing the terrible trials of those they are helping. But somehow the Stephen Ministers never show that and continue to raise others to a better place. How can you support the PHCPC’s Stephen Ministry? You can pray for the Stephen Leaders and Stephen Ministers as they provide Christian care to others, while also praying for those
who receive the confidential care through the Stephen Ministry. You can inform the Stephen Leaders about those who might benefit from the program–being sure to get that person’s permission first! Spread the word in the community about the availability of the Ministry and the care it can provide. Seek and accept the Stephen Ministry when you are in need of supportive Christian care. They are there to help all who ask. Consider becoming a Stephen Minister yourself, particularly if you’ve been helped by one. Pay it forward, so to speak. And lastly, offer financial donations. Volunteering in any capacity is a win/win situation for both you and those you assist. In his 2002 State of the Union address, President Bush issued a challenge to Americans to help their neighbors, communities, and our nation through service. He called on us to dedicate at least 4,000 hours – or two years – to service. The Stephen Ministry is a perfect start toward that 4,000 hour commitment, since the program requires a minimum of two years of your time. If you wish to receive help from the Stephen Ministry or get more information on the program, please contact a Stephen Leader at the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church at 412.655.2000. Chances are a volunteer will answer your call.
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by Judith Schardt
It was in 1925 that Helen Keller spoke at the annual International Convention of the Lions Club. She challenged them to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.” Since then, service to the blind or visually impaired has been one of the club’s most pronounced endeavors. The crusade resulted in the creation of Sight First, an international blindness prevention program. Through the years over $200 million was raised and used to save or restore sight to 35 million people, costing the individual recipients less than six dollars. The Lions Club didn’t stop there. It has grown to be the world’s largest service organization with 1.4 million members in over 192 countries. They participate in several service projects including diabetes awareness, education of the mentally and physically impaired, environmental issues, community welfare and youth projects. The West Jefferson Hills area is fortunate
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to have its very own branch, right in the Pleasant Hills area. The Pleasant Hills Lions Club, chartered in December 1940, is comprised of individuals from the Pleasant Hills/Jefferson Hills area who volunteer humanitarian efforts through service projects and raising funds to help those in need. They participate in various charitable programs, including the Beacon Lodge, Blind Bowlers, Eyeglasses for Individuals (as mentioned above), Guild for the Blind, Leader Dog School, Lions Diabetes Center at UPMC McKeesport Hospital, Pennsylvania Eye Research Foundation, Pennsylvania Lions Hearing Research Foundation, Pittsburgh Blind Services, Pittsburgh Vision Foundation, Radio Information Services, and Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children. Helping all those organizations is a huge endeavor in and of itself, but it’s particularly impressive since the club’s current member number hovers around 33 people. These folks represent some of our community’s best, who selflessly take on challenges that would seem daunting to groups of far greater numbers. They regularly participate in local events as well which include: Pleasant Hills Community Day, Cloverleaf Community Food Bank, Halloween Parade, Baldwin E.M.S. Ambulance Service, Pleasant Hills Fire Department, Pleasant Hills Library, National Night Out, Pleasant Hills Welcome Book, Thomas Jefferson High School Band, Thomas Jefferson Honors Banquet and the Lew and Helen Ondis Scholarship. Assisting with so many community projects takes an enormous amount of regular funds. That is always the tough part for do-gooders in any community, but now with the struggling economy and money being as tight as it is for most people, raising funds has become a very tough job indeed. However, the Lions Club has that area figured out as well and has come up with some very clever ways to collect donations without making the strain too hard on anyone. You can pretty much look around in the neighborhood and not only do you see their generous work, but you’ve probably helped them without even realizing it. They sell brooms and trash can liners at their weekly sponsored Farmers Market every Thursday afternoon from May through October at the Pleasant Hills Community Church parking lot. And who doesn’t think that farmers markets are one of the best parts of summer? A casual stroll will give you the opportunity to visit lots of vendors selling the best of the season’s fruits, vegetables, homemade baked goods, freshly made lemonade and treats. It’s such an enjoyable, low cost way to feel the warm summer sun on your face and buy bags full of goodies, while listening to live music provided by local artists.
The Lions Club also raises money by hosting The Great Giveaway auction, a spaghetti dinner, sending Eye Seals letters, soliciting for White Cane Day, conducting blood analysis screening, hosting a pizza booth on Community Day, selling Enjoy Books, holding a citrus fruit sale and by sponsoring pancake breakfasts in both Pleasant Hills and Jefferson Hills. It seems impossible that such a small group can touch hundreds of lives and impact their neighborhood in such profound and positive ways, but they do. Living in a time when recycling and doing random acts of kindness are the “in” things to do, as they should be, here’s an idea that can accomplish both. You can drop off pairs of used eyeglasses in a little black box labeled “LIONS CLUB: PLEASE DONATE YOUR OLD GLASSES” in the lobby of the Pearle
Vision Center in Southland Shopping Center. It’s a gesture that requires almost no effort, but allows someone with vision limitations who can’t afford new glasses to have them. The Pleasant Hills Lions Club collects old eyeglasses which are then repaired, recycled and reused. They also collect old glasses at the Lions Club tent at the above-mentioned Farmers Market, or at these locations: Pleasant Hills Library (in the lobby inside the door), Brass Rail (Bill Green Shopping Center), Altman’s Restaurant (Old Clairton Rd.), Kribel’s Bakery (Old Clairton Rd.). They are always welcoming new members. Dinner meetings are routinely held the first and third Mondays of the month from September through May at a restaurant in the community. It is at these meetings that brief business announcements are presented, as well as any reports of the club. They often have guest speakers. A steak fry picnic held in Mowry Park marks the beginning and ending meetings of the year. At Christmas they host a members and spouses dinner, and again at election of officers in May. The Pleasant Hills Lions Club motto is “WE SERVE.” If you feel called to serve your community as well, you can contact Paul Blake at 412.655.3044; Ed Kuchta at 412.655.3450; Wayne Severson at 412.653.4572 or Chuck Snyder at 412.653.4220. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25
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W E ST J E F F E R S O N H I L L S
BY PAMELA PALONGUE
“Dancing with the Stars” is one of the most popular shows on television and with good reason. The participants appear to be having a better time than the audience and the music is always so uplifting and fun. The health benefits of dancing are obvious, as many celebrities on the show have melted away several clothing sizes while in competition. But is dancing safe for senior adults? According to some recent studies, dancing is not only safe but very beneficial for the mature adult. Flexibility and muscle tone increase with repeated dance moves. And remembering the sequence of the dance steps may help decrease dementia. According to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, the mental challenge of remembering a dance routine has been credited for a more alert mentation. In fact, learning in general helps to keep the memory fit, so learning new steps and moves combine the advantages of physical and mental fitness. Physically, older dancers have shown improvements in increased range of motion, balance and gait. Those with good balance and a steady gait are less likely to become victims of fall injuries. The movement of dance also increases respirations and heart rate for a good cardiovascular workout that is not overly taxing or jarring on the joints. Coordination also is increased in
those who dance regularly. The Mayo Clinic notes that exercise helps lessen the symptoms of depression by releasing endorphins which improve a person’s mood. The social aspect of dancing is very important to overall mental attitude and health as well. Human touch is essential to the development of a child. Several well-known cases of children deprived of touch in abusive situations do not develop normally either physically or psychologically. Touch is also very important to the health of adults as well. According to the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), touch helps to lower the blood pressure, boosts the immune system and decreases stress levels. Just about most any kind of dance encompasses the most important as pects of dancing that are beneficial to one’s health. Ballroom, square dancing, polka, and ethnic styles such as Greek dancing or Irish Step all involve an increase in heart rate, coordinated movements, memory of steps and social interaction. Find a style that works for you and start enjoying the benefits of dance. You’re never too old to learn a few new moves. *It is always advisable to check with your physician before beginning any new physical activity or exercise.
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THE SLEEP CONNECTION BY PAMELA PALONGUE
hances are, if you’re over the age of 40 and have trouble sleeping, one of your sage friends has informed you that after a certain age, you don’t need as much sleep. Not true, says the National Sleep Foundation. Our body’s need for sleep remains pretty much constant throughout the life cycle. Sleep is the way our bodies repair themselves. When our respiratory, cardiovascular, mental and physical systems shut down for the night with minimal activity, our bodies are busy at work repairing the damage done by stress, inflammation and toxins that have invaded during daylight hours. If the heart rate or mental functions are still engaged in activity, the body cannot wholly devote itself to repair. Over time this can contribute to heart disease, diabetes and other ailments. What does change as we age are our sleep patterns. It may take longer to fall asleep or you may have noticed that you have trouble staying asleep.
C
in
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About 44% of older Americans have some form or insomnia. Much of the time it can be attributed to medications which either interrupt sleep or prevent deep sleep known as REM. If insomnia is caused by medication, it is well worth a trip to the doctor to discuss other alternative medications. Another contributor to loss of sleep as we age is snoring. Snoring is more prevalent in those who are overweight and unfortunately aging is often accompanied by weight gain. Losing weight may help alleviate some of the interruption of snoring. Loud snoring should be evaluated by a doctor since it may be a sign of a condition called sleep apnea. This is where the individual actually stops breathing for brief intervals, (usually a few seconds). In addition to preventing deep, healthy sleep it can also be potentially fatal. Acid reflux may also be the cause of sleepless nights. The strong digestive acid from the stomach flows back into the throat causing a burning sensation and awakening. This condition also warrants a trip to the doctor to rule out more serious conditions. While there are medications available to neutralize the stomach acid, the condition is also helped by eating earlier in the evening, giving the body more time to digest the food. Also, drinking more water will aid in digestion as well. If none of these problems seem to be the cause of sleeplessness, exercise or other physical activity may help you to enjoy a more sound sleep. Also avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the later evening hours will allow your body to relax before bedtime. More sedentary activities for an hour or so before bedtime such as reading a book, will also calm you down prior to sleep. Watching suspenseful action pictures or sporting events may raise your level of alertness so that more time is required to fall asleep. If you find that none of the suggestions or treatments prescribed by your doctor work, a visit to a sleep disorder clinic may be in order. Sleep is important to your overall health and well-being.
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27
West Jefferson Elementary
ccording to the American Heart Association, one in three children and teens are overweight or obese which is almost triple the figures for 1963. It’s common knowledge that obesity among children can be a precursor to serious health problems such as diabetes and hypertension, but many children who are not overweight are experiencing a decline in fitness as well. Laurie Conboy, a physical education teacher at West Jefferson Elementary with over 20 years teaching experience has noticed a decline in overall fitness among her students firsthand. “I notice many of my students can’t even run a short distance without being out of breath,” says Conboy. Additionally, the children do not have the upper body strength of children of 2 decades ago. Conboy and her fellow P.E. teacher Dustin Guidash wondered if the level of physical fitness might also be having an effect on children’s cognitive function and test scores. With this in mind, she applied for a grant from Highmark called the Highmark Healthy High Five School Challenge. She entitled the grant, “Fitness for the Mind and Body.” After submitting the grant in April 2011, she received $4,000 in funds to purchase a climbing wall for the school that will increase the upper body strength of students.
they move across it placing their hands and feet in the pockets to advance. The children will have a certain time frame in which to complete crossing the wall. In March, West Jefferson Elementary will have their annual Pennsylvania System of School Assessment tests, or PSSA. To test the theory that physical fitness may play a key role in mental fitness, two classes of 4th graders will exercise on the wall shortly before the exams and two other 4th grade classes will serve as the control group and will not exercise before the tests. Conboy asserts that the physical activity will help the mental alertness of the children by increasing circulation and at the same time relaxing them. Once the tests have been completed and Conboy has collected all the data, it will be sent to Highmark for analysis of the results. In addition to increasing upper body strength, Conboy would like to see more cardiovascular fitness among her students as well. “The presumption is that if a child is active in sports such as soccer, football or other activities, they must be fit. This is not necessarily the case. Although they get some exercise from involvement in these sports, in order to have a good cardiovascular workout, the (Continued on page 64)
The wall, which is about 20 feet across, is designed for children to traverse it horizontally. They are never more than about 3 feet off the ground, as
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By Pamela Palongue
West Jefferson Hills
Keeping You Informed
Jefferson Hills Borough
Borough of Jefferson Hills Bond Issue Will Pay for New Public Works Garage The Borough of Jefferson Hills Council approved a $5.98 million bond issue on July 11, 2011 that will fund a new public works garage and possibly other capital projects. About $3.4 million of that amount will refinance a 2005 bond issue and the remainder will be used to construct a new public works garage. The new building replaces an existing obsolete garage and will be equipped to store more of the Borough’s equipment and trucks, most of which sit outside causing faster deterioration due to the weather. Council first began considering refinancing the 2005 bond series in October 2010. Administration continued to monitor the market for the right time to gain as much of a savings for the Borough as possible. “The Borough will save $110,571 through the refinancing of the 2005 series bond,” said Borough Manager Douglas Arndt. Over the next several months, decisions will be made on the final design and exact location of the garage.
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
Jefferson Hills Borough
Jefferson Hills Honors Its
in the d e h c r . ma emetery terans Our ve Lobbs Run C to parade (L-R) Vietnam – Pascoe WWII d l o r a H ar osar – John K ki – Korean W Seles d Robert an geant E5 Ser in – Iraq ackul Geo M
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West Jefferson Hills
Jefferson Hills Borough
War Dead
UPCOMING EVENTS Fall Festival Saturday, October 15 ~ 1 – 5 p.m. sponsored by the Jefferson Hills Historical Society Jefferson Hills 10th Annual Holiday Celebration Monday, November 28 ~ 6 – 8 p.m. sponsored by Jefferson Hills Library
NOTICE OF HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL DISPOSAL
Allegheny County has announced a collection event for the safe disposal of common household chemicals. The collection will be held at the South Park Wave Pool parking lot on Saturday, October 1 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. LOG ON TO WWW.ZEROWASTEPGH.ORG for more information.
A NOTE FROM COUNCIL REGARDING COMMUNITY DAY Many of our residents have asked us why Community Day was cancelled this summer. After consulting with the Recreation Board, we noted that attendance has been declining at Community Day in recent years. Therefore, we chose to spend our manpower and resources to grow alternate community endeavors that have generated revenue for good causes and greater community enjoyment. We are proud that the resources and manpower saved from Community Day allowed us to operate the Jefferson Hills summer camp for the entire month of July, resulting in 160 children (an increase of 41 children from 2010) enjoying the camp this year. The new events this summer were the Community Co-Ed Softball Fundraising Tournament at Andrew Reilly Park to benefit wounded Clairton police officer James Kuzak on August 21, and the Jefferson Hills Community Awareness Day for Autism at Floreffe Fire Hall on August 27. We hope that you and your family enjoyed these events, and we look forward to seeing you at the upcoming events at our Municipal Building.
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Jefferson Hills Borough
Jefferson Hills Children Attend Camp in July The Borough’s Summer Recreation Program was a huge success, as more than 160 of our children spent July mornings at the Borough summer camp at the 885 Andrew Reilly Memorial Park and Gill Hall Park. Included in the program were sports, crafts, field trips, movie nights and a visit by Borough police and 885 Fire Department personnel. Thank you to everyone who made this wonderful program possible.
Day campers at Gill Hall show off their pet rock creations Front l-r : Alyssa Volomino, Celina McElhinny, Lilly Halliday, Julia Berberich, Makayla Blosl; Back row: Grace Williams, Natasha Yanief, Kiley Hennel, Jeffrey Nizill, Kerra Hennel
Wow, prisoners sit in the back!
885 volunteer firefighter Joe Smith told the children not to be frightened by the special gear and sound of a firefighter’s voice through the equipment should their family ever need the services of the fire company.
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Jefferson Hills Police Officer Kevin King explained the special equipment in a police cruiser.
Jefferson Hills Borough
This is the second in a series designed to acquaint our community with the men and women who work and volunteer at Jefferson Hills. This month meet Tracey Khalil, James Weber and Tom Lovell
Tracey Khalil Councilman
James Weber Councilman
Tom Lovell Public Works Director
Tracey Khalil has enjoyed the experience of serving on Jefferson Hills Council for the past three and one-half years very much, and it’s clear that the hard-working councilman takes his position very seriously. “I asked to do the job, and each and every meeting I come prepared to do the job,” he said. Khalil has been a member of the Budget Committee each year he has been on Council and is the chairman of the Engineering Committee that works with Gateway Engineering to keep projects operating in a timely and efficient manner. However, one of the Committee’s priorities in the near future will be the hiring of an in-house Borough engineer. “Hiring an inhouse engineer will lower our costs,” Khalil, said. Another of Khalil’s priorities is the growing of the Borough’s infrastructure, and in particular making sure that the Borough’s roads are paved. In addition, he says that finding ways to lower the costs to treat Jefferson Hills wastewater through the Clairton Municipal Authority and the West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority are vital to the economic stability of Jefferson Hills. “We have spent well over one million dollars as a community upgrading our sanitary infrastructure. We are working with both authorities looking at all options to reduce our future costs," Khalil said. Khalil and his wife, Marilee are the parents of two grown children, Brittany and Jon, and they are the proud grandparents of two grandsons. Khalil is employed as a realtor for Howard Hanna Real Estate and is a self-described “avid golfer.” Attracting small businesses to Jefferson Hills in a “community town center” is among Khalil’s dreams for the future of Jefferson Hills. A subcommittee of the Borough Planning Commission is currently discussing potential plans for this development, taking this from an idea to a reality. A life-long resident of Jefferson Hills, Khalil is enthusiastic about the future of the community where he was born and raised on George Lane (off High Road), on property that was owned by his grandfather and divided among his family. “The entire street was our family….that was a great way to grow up!”
Working with people in his profession as a nurse anesthetist at Jefferson Regional Medical Center and serving on Jefferson Hills Council comes naturally to James Weber. Councilman Weber has been performing community service since he was in high school where he began his EMT training a year prior to being old enough for certification. “If everyone would step up and give a little bit to their neighborhoods and communities, all of our communities would be better,” Weber said. Weber was elected to Council in 2008 with a priority of reorganizing the Borough staff to provide a higher level of service to Jefferson Hills. “I’m very proud that we have filled our administrative staff with highly qualified and credentialed people,” Weber said. He added that the Borough is currently looking to fill the position of Borough Engineer to complete the professional staff and reduce engineering costs. While satisfied that Jefferson Hills has moved forward in important areas, Weber is also focused on the Borough’s future. “I would like to see continued efforts for commercial expansion in Jefferson Hills while still maintaining the residential and rural character of the community,” he said. Weber said he is also looking forward to the Borough realizing the goals of its Comprehensive Plan (long-range plan) that will see recreational opportunities expanded in the Borough through a mix of private and public endeavors. Weber and his wife, Kris are the parents of Alex, 10 and Anna, 8. The Weber family especially enjoys outdoor activities together. A highlight of their summer vacation was a camping/rafting trip at Ohiopyle, PA with a 24 mile round trip bike ride to Confluence, PA. Weber and his son also participate in a mentored youth hunting program that enables lots of camaraderie between the hunting buddies. When asked what he likes best about Jefferson Hills, Weber said, “I like the rural character, the friendly people, the quality of our schools and the evolving community. I have always felt welcome here.”
One of the newest members of the Jefferson Hills staff is Tom Lovell, our Public Works Director, who was hired in April, 2011. Lovell previously held the same position in the City of Washington, PA and prior to that worked in the Public Works Department for Peters Township. Public Works is a demanding department with varied duties during the year. The Public Works Director and his full time crew of ten (and additional summer crew of four) are responsible for the maintenance and repair of all Jefferson Hills roads, sanitary and storm sewers. They also install and replace all road signs. In addition, the Public Works staff maintains all of our Borough buildings, including cleaning and garbage removal, grass cutting, and the maintaining of park buildings, playgrounds and fencing. Some of the longest and most difficult days of the Public Works Director come with winter weather and the supervision of Borough snow removal. Lovell accomplishes that huge task with the Borough’s 5 ten-ton trucks and 4 medium dump trucks. “We ask residents to try and not park on streets if a snow storm is forecasted,” Lovell said, noting that cars on neighborhood streets make snow removal difficult. In his free time, Lovell likes to hunt and fish and cultivates a large vegetable garden at his home in Venetia. He and his wife, Andrea, are the parents of a daughter, Curry, who is a student at Edinboro University of PA. Asked if there is anything else he would like the residents of Jefferson Hills to know about his Public Works Department, Lovell smiled. “Be patient with us. We will fix your problem as soon as possible.” he said.
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Jefferson Hills Borough
Library News One of the special guests in the summer reading program was Steve Haberman of Haberman Magic and More. As you can see, the children certainly enjoyed participating in the show.
Six-Week Library Summer Reading Program is a Huge Success Seventy-five children and teens took part in the Library’s six-week Summer Reading Program, where they were rewarded with prizes for reading, treated to discussions and programs by interesting guests, and taken on great imaginary trips to far away places. The program lived up to the promise of its theme: “One World Many Stories.”
Eva Lavrinc had her hands full assisting magician Steve with one of his tricks
Lt.Colonel Nick Edinger (US Army, Retired) provided a slide presentation from his service in the Republic of VietNam (DaNang) during 1969-70. His focus was on military logistics, the culture and people of South Vietnam. Edinger also displayed a number of items of military clothing and equipment from the Vietnam era. The teens and tweens asked Edinger many questions and enjoyed his presentation very much.
Cathryn Rossi – 9 and Christine Rossi – 7, who attend Jefferson Elementary School, enjoyed the “All American Bar-b-que” on the last day of the Summer Reading program.
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Jefferson Hills Elementary first grader Arshia Rustagi completed 600 minutes of reading during the summer reading program, earning the rewards of a book and ice cream coupon. Her mother noted that after beginning the program, Arshia began reading road signs, names of establishments and other new words that she came across during the day. “Thanks for this summer reading program; this has encouraged the kids in many ways,” Mrs. Rustagi said.
News from the Friends of the Jefferson Hills Library Cookie Walk Planned A Cookie Walk is planned for Saturday, November 5 in the Community Room of the Borough Building from 1–3 p.m. Fresh, homemade cookies will be sold for $5 per pound. Anyone interested in helping to bake for this fundraiser, please stop by the library and sign the Cookie Walk helper sheet.
Do YOU Have a Library Card? More than half of all your neighbors use our beautiful Library! THE TOP 10 REASONS TO OWN A LIBRARY CARD 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Free access to 4.7 million items in Allegheny County Free Movies and TV Series DVDs (why pay for Netflix or Redbox?) Free audio books (great for car trips) on CD and MP3 Free E-book downloads Free access to periodical subscriptions and newspapers Free help from our trained librarians—just ask—we know a lot! Free use of brand new computers Free computer tutors and resume help Free use of Internet and WIFI Free programs for all ages on a variety of topics
Jefferson Hills Borough Historical Society Fall Programs Jefferson Hills Community Room - 7 p.m. September 28 Local artist, Phyllis Pastore, will share her craft of designing and sculpting unique “Santas.” October 26 Ed Falvo from Elizabeth Twp. Historical Society will present “Medicine from the Nineteenth Century.”
The Historical Society is requesting photos from the past. The photos will be handled with care, copied and returned promptly. The society is also looking for men’s clothing from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s and a dress or mannequin form. Contact the library if you have these items.
Think of the money you’ll save! And we do all the work for you! Getting your own card is as easy as stopping by the Library. You can also sign up for a card on line by clicking on “my account” at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org Stop by and have a FREE cup of coffee with us any day this fall. Kick back, relax, and enjoy an interesting and peaceful place to browse our great collection of materials.
Library Acquires New Computers for Patron Use
On July 27, local artist Sally Capolupo, demonstrated samples of her “Heritage Bowls” to the Historical Society. Sally designs the unique pottery with information from her clients’ family trees. In the photo with Sally are Kevin Christofel (board member), Joyce Schmidt (Historical Society president) and Florence Alderson (charter member).
The Library recently acquired nine new HP computers for patron use from the Electronic Information Network (EIN). This non-profit organization provides and maintains over 2,000 computers in over eighty locations in Allegheny County Libraries. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Jefferson Hills Borough Jefferson Hills is happy to welcome the addition of Silver Scholars Computer Classes to the Library programming.
Library News continued Fall Classes at Jefferson Hills Library. Register at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org or call 412.655.7741.
Mosaic Stained Glass Garden Stepping Stones 6 Tuesdays, November 15 through December 20; 6 – 8:15 p.m. Tuition – $30; Material/Supplies approx. $50 Instructor: Wesley Luckey Chair Caning and Other Woven Seats 6 Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 20 through Oct. 6; 6:15 – 8:15 p.m. Free Tuition – Cost of materials Instructor: Wesley Luckey YOGA (Beginners to Intermediate) 6 Tuesdays, September 20 through October 25; 6 – 7 p.m. Bring a mat. Tuition is $5 per week Instructor: Autumn Timko Locks Of Love Saturday, December 3; 1 – 4 p.m. Provides wigs to children who have lost hair due to illness. The Library will sponsor a free hair cut by local professionals at the Library. Minimum ponytail length is 10 in. Register at the Library. Holiday Floral Table Projects with Jim Carlucci of Della Robbia Florist Create a Thanksgiving floral centerpiece –$40 Tuesday, November 22; 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. Create a Christmas floral centerpiece – $45 Monday, December 19; 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. Trim Your Christmas Tree With an Expert Tuesday, November 29 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. $15 Jim Carlucci from Della Robbia Florist will demonstrate the art of decorating a beautiful holiday tree with the lights, ribbons, and decorations.
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Beadathon with "The Bead Lady!" Two events: October 11 and December 6. 6 – 8 p.m. Instructor: Kathy Shomo, author of Anyone Can Bead! Easy Techniques for Creating Jewelry and teaching artist for 15 years Materials fee is based on project(s) completed. (Example: Sterling Silver Earrings $7; Bracelet $12) Sherlock Holmes Reading Scion of Jefferson Hills The first Wednesday of the month beginning on September 7 at 7 p.m. Moderator: Tom Drnach For adults and teens. The group will cover not only the literature of Holmes but also the films And movies. A list of materials to be covered is at the Library or the first meeting. Readings for September 7 are The Gloria Scott and The Musgrave Ritual Computer Tutor Every Saturday, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Instructor: Gill Smith Need some one-on-one help with your P.C.? Our computer tutor will be happy to help you with e-mail, Word, searching the Web or anything else you need help with on your computer. Just drop in. Resume Rescue First Tuesday of the month 7 – 8:30 p.m. Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 8, Dec. 6 Instructor: Vanessa Bronder Create a resume or on-line application that reflects your best work experience and qualities
Silver Scholars teaches computer classes specifically designed for individuals over the age of 50. The classes are fun, interactive, begin with the basics, and will help you become a computer wiz! All classes will be held at the Jefferson Hills Community Room (at the Library). All classes are limited to 10 students, so register early. Contact Silver Scholars at 412-283-0105 to register. A class consists of two, two hour sessions and a large print book is included. For more information on the classes offered this fall at the Jefferson Hills Library, visit www.silverscholars.com or www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org.
Facebook Facts Mondays, October 10 & 17; 10 – 11 a.m. Instructor: Jeff Connelly Get help from our computer geek squad to set up your Facebook account. Then you’ll be able to “friend request” your children and grandchildren! Scrabble Club Meets Tuesdays at Noon to 4 p.m. Red Cross Babysitting Training Certification Saturday, September 24; 8 to 4:30 p.m. For Ages 11-15 All materials & lunch provided Tuition: $85 Register and pre-pay to Library by September 14. SAT Preparation Classes Four Sundays, October 9, 16, 23, 30 1 – 4 p.m. Fee is $175 Permission forms can be picked up at the library. The SAT exam is being given at TJ High School on Nov. 5 Story times for Children Ages 3 and up Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. September 5, 22, 29; October 6, 13, 20 November 3 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15
BE AWARE OF KEY BENEFITS OF LIFE INSURANCE You may be unaware of it, but September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. And while a whole month may seem like a long time to focus on life insurance, it’s actually a good opportunity for you to realize the important role that life insurance can play in your life. Unfortunately, many people don’t have sufficient insurance. A recent report by LIMRA, a research and consulting group, shows the following: Individual life insurance ownership among U.S. households has reached a 50-year low. Three out of every 10 households (about 35 million households) currently have no life insurance — an increase of 11 million households since 2004. These figures help explain why the nonprofit LIFE Foundation coordinates Life Insurance Awareness Month each September. Simply put, many people don’t realize how many ways that life insurance can help them and their families. To be specific, life insurance can:
Educate your children. If you were to die prematurely, your life insurance policy can pay, in whole or in part, your children’s college education. And if you live a normal life span, life insurance can help to pay for your grandchildren’s college education.
Pay off your mortgage. If you have sufficient life insurance, the death benefit can pay off your mortgage, so your family wouldn’t have to move.
Help pay for your spouse’s retirement. Your spouse might be counting on sharing some of the money you eventually withdraw from your retirement plans — such as your 401(k) and IRA — to help with his or her own retirement. If you were to die early, your spouse, as beneficiary, would receive the existing account balances in these plans, but your future contributions would, of course, die with you.
Help pay for your retirement. You don’t even have to die to reap some benefits from your life insurance. If you’ve purchased some form of permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, you have the opportunity to build a cash balance. And through policy loans or withdrawals, you can tap into this cash to help you pay some of your expenses during retirement.
Help you leave the legacy you desire.
Of course, one big question that you may ask is this: How much life insurance do I need? You’ve probably seen those estimates that say you should have insurance that’s worth a certain number of years times your annual income. While this might not be a bad estimate, it’s not a hard-and-fast rule for every single individual. The amount of insurance you need will depend on a variety of factors: your age, income, size of family, value of home, employment situation and so on. Your financial advisor can help you determine the level of insurance that’s appropriate for your needs. Now that you’ve seen how life insurance may help you over the years, and you’ve got a sense of how to determine the amount of coverage you need, you can appreciate the message behind Life Insurance Awareness Month — so take it to heart and make sure you’ve got the proper insurance plan in place. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Disclaimers for California Financial Advisors: This article must contain Edward Jones' insurance license number. It will appear as “California Insurance License OC24309.” Disclaimers for Arkansas Financial Advisors: This article must contain: 1. the financial advisor’s insurance license number and 2. the statement “This literature is intended to promote and assist in the sale of life insurance or annuities. Talk with your financial advisor about the various insurance and annuity products available through Edward Jones.”
Life insurance can be an important part of your estate plans. To use life insurance properly for estate planning, consult with your legal advisor.
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
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REAL ESTATE
W E S T J E F F E R S ON H I L L S
IN Community Magazines proudly announces a comprehensive look at the West Jefferson Hills real estate market. In this section, you’ll find interesting information about creating beautiful spaces to live in, and other interesting facts about your community. F E AT U R E S T O R Y
FALL LANDSCAPING IDEAS With the dog days of summer are behind us, that first crisp snap of fall is in the air, and the corn from the fields from all over Washington County has been harvested. Energy seems to make a rebound and even the animals seems livelier—more alert. During this time, there’s nothing more wonderful than taking advantage of those last days of warmth to get outside and enjoy the outdoors by doing a little yard work. This is a great time to rake up all those leaves on the ground. But don’t just throw them into a trash bag to be hauled away; leaves are great for composting and may have as much as three times the amount of minerals as fertilizer. They need to be shredded to be easier to work with, but this is easily accomplished by running a mower back and forth a few times over a pile of leaves. Also, be sure to add a little nitrogen to your compost pile with the leaves.
If your summer flowers have faded, be sure to trim back dead leaves and blooms and add some fall flowers for some more vibrant color. The Pleasant Hills Farmers Market has beautiful mums that can be purchased in pots to accent any garden with a fall palette, but don’t forget purple as a great contrasting color to oranges, yellows and sienna. Some fall flowers with purple accents are pansies, purple coneflowers, asters and mums. All of these will grow well in zone 6. For some green accent, you might try growing some arugula in a pot or self-watering container. This spicy, leafy plant has long been popular in France and Italy and actually grows better in the fall than in the summer. The leaves will add zest to your salads and other fall dishes. Although the planting time for arugula is in the spring, seedlings can be purchased and transplanted; however they also do well if left in containers or pots.
Even if you’re not particularly good at growing plants and flowers, there are many ways to accent your lawn and garden with minimal effort and maintenance. Brightly colored pumpkins placed around pathways and steps give a whimsical touch to decorating. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight and directly on the ground, and your pumpkin may well last for two to three months in the cool fall climate. Other low-maintenance decorations for fall are corn stalks and bales of hay. Hay bales also provide extra seating in outdoor areas. Summer may be over, but your yard can still be a bright, cheerful place full of beautiful, living things. – by Pamela Palongue
The Pleasant Hills Lions Club Farmer’s Market takes place from 3:30 – 7 p.m. in the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church parking lot at 199 Old Clairton Road. The Farmer’s Market will continue until October 13th. Each week 16-20 vendors are in attendance. Products available include many fresh vegetables and fruits - lettuce, apples, potatoes, strawberries and other berries, asparagus, brussels sprouts, tomatoes, corn, peaches and more. The Lions Club brooms and garbage bags are available. Used eyeglasses are being collected also. All proceeds benefit the Lions Club charitable works. Any questions, please contact Roy Fowler @ 412.653.4121. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
REAL ESTATE
W E S T J E F F E R S ON H I L L S
By Pamela Palongue
o you have anyone addicted to power tools living in your home? Do their eyes glaze over when they enter the local hardware store? Do they sometimes try to replace the washers in your washerless faucets? Have they been known to use a jack hammer to refinish your hardwood floors? If this sounds familiar, there is help. In my own case, I will never forget the moment I realized I was married to a compulsive handyman. It was a summer day that began like any other. I had left early in the morning for some weekly grocery shopping and a few errands. I returned just a few short hours later to find my husband standing in the middle of the bathtub amid wall tiles and debris up to his knees. He froze in midswing of the sledge hammer with drywall dust still floating silently down around us. The bathroom wall had been taken down to the bare plumbing, presumably to fix a minor leak. When he saw my look of horror, he sheepishly told me that he had to break down the wall in order to gain access to the plumbing. When I pointed out that we would no longer be able to take showers, he reminded me how much money we were saving by not calling a licensed plumber. This incident was not the main cause of the divorce, as I largely blame myself for leaving him unsupervised in the house with access to heavy equipment. I have since learned that with a few easy, inexpensive changes, you too can leave your home with the comfort of knowing it will be reasonably intact upon your return. The easiest solution is to prevent the purchase of power tools in the first place. When your handyman casually mentions that he has to “stop by the lumberyard and pick up a few things,” distract him by mentioning the playoffs, offering to cook his favorite food or showing him the latest issue of the Victoria’s Secret catalog. Next, use the parental controls on your TV set to block out HGTV, DIY Network or any other channels that may convince your handyman that he can add a wing to the house over the weekend. Cover ALL appliances with several rolls of duct tape. (This will deter him from taking them apart.) Although this is not guaranteed to prevent the dismantling of your refrigerator, it will slow him down considerably. Finally, if all else fails, tell him the local electronics store has just introduced a new line of plasma screen TVs that are 9 x 20 feet, the exact dimensions of the north wall of your house. Keep in mind that he will likely be extremely disappointed upon learning that no such TV exists outside of the Starship Enterprise on Star Trek. He may instead buy an extreme number of video games and cameras, but at least he cannot destroy the house with Dungeons and Dragons.
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REAL ESTATE
W E S T J E F F E R S ON H I L L S
MAKING YOUR HOME MORE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL GENERATIONS According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center in Washington, D.C., homes where multiple generations of family have blended together under one roof are on the rise. With economic constraints and the high cost of child care, it is easy to see why children, parents and grandparents living together in one dwelling makes sense in many situations. It’s also easy to see why multigenerational dwellings which appeal to the needs of all ages are quickly becoming the trend. From this perspective a ranch-style house with one floor is a good choice. Seniors with mobility problems will not have to deal with steps, but also parents will not have the added worry of their young children falling down stairs. Another important feature of multi-generational homes is the “mother-in-law suite.” This is generally an area of the house that is designed for an aging parent, giving them a degree of privacy and independence while
still being a part of the nuclear family household. They are sometimes located in a basement for easier access for those with mobility issues and often times will have a separate entrance, giving the appearance of a mini-apartment. They usually always include a bedroom and private bath, and may also have kitchenettes and small living areas as well. When accessibility becomes an issue with an older adult, there are many options for making the home more accessible without giving it the industrial-style, nursing home appearance. This is an important consideration when it comes to the re-sale of the house. First of all, if an individual is wheel-chair bound, doorways must be made larger to accommodate the chair. With a modern contemporary home,
this may be accomplished by removing walls for a more open floor plan—which appeals to buyers—or widening doorways with attractive archways. This will make the change look more intentional and less like a temporary fix for a mobility problem. Many times it becomes necessary to install grab bars in baths and showers for the safety of senior family members. Although there are many industrial style models from which to choose, there are a few companies on the web that are sensitive to the attractiveness of the grab bars and offer styles in decorative brass and silver. Walk-in showers and baths can be constructed with attractive glass enclosures that fit everyone’s style and are still accessible for seniors. A few changes to your home can help make it safer for seniors and children and more valuable when it comes time to re-sell. - by Pamela Palongue
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Home Values In WJH Estimated median house or condo value in 2009: $177,496 (it was $99,400 in 2000) Jefferson Hills: $177,496 Pennsylvania: $164,700 Mean prices in 2009: All housing units: $192,444; Detached houses: $200,466; Townhouses or other attached units: $147,416 Estimated median house or condo value in 2009: $146,999 (it was $99,500 in 2000) Pleasant Hills: $146,999 Pennsylvania: $164,700 Mean prices in 2009: All housing units: $151,390; Detached houses: $151,694; Townhouses or other attached units: $136,362; Mobile homes: $128,276 Estimated median house or condo value in 2009: $64,504 (it was $40,600 in 2000) West Elizabeth: $64,504 Pennsylvania: $164,700 Mean prices in 2009: All housing units: $52,226; Detached houses: $65,851; Townhouses or other attached units: $53,533; In 2-unit structures: $65,430; Mobile homes: $13,129
www.trulia.com/real_estate/Canonsburg-Pennsylvania/ 42
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Dare to Dream...
C
osta Homebuilders is a fourth generation, family-owned construction company based in Pittsburgh, PA. At Costa Homebuilders, our goal is simple: Provide our customers with the most positive experience possible throughout the building process. We are one of the area’s leading building companies, and our clients receive the finest product at the greatest value possible.
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The New Life™ Custom Home Five Star Builders Program makes buying your dream home… easy as 1-2-3. With our New Life™ Custom Home Five Star Builders Program we show you: How to get more house for your investment How to save time and money How to choose a lender that fits your needs How to understand pricing step by step How to reduce stress and help you save time and money
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Legendary Quality West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
For Jeff Costa, operating manager of Costa Homebuilders, building a custom home is more than picking countertops and crossing items off a punch list. It’s as unique as the clients he builds for. “We get to know our clients as individuals and study their lifestyles,” Costa said. “This provides unique insight into a client’s true needs and desires.” Costa provides small-scale drawings and works with clients until the layout of the home is enthusiastically agreed upon and that their budgetary plan is met. “Every step is significant, and our clients tell us that our process is enjoyable because of its organization,” Costa said.
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Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go directly to our website.
Our Mission Our mission, supported by a commitment to excellence, is to operate a total quality building system. We are a construction team full of people who take pride in what we do and put forth our greatest effort to accomplish team goals. Our construction team is made up of in-house departments, subcontractors, and vendors that demonstrate a high standard of quality that our customers depend on. We are determined to provide superior service, quality workmanship, pleasing job appearance, and a safe working environment. The end result will be nothing less than a quality product.
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Opening the Doors to Independence & Opportunity
tep by Step, Inc. is a statewide, community-based human services organization with operations in 16 counties in four regions across the state of Pennsylvania. Our corporate headquarters is located in Wilkes-Barre, PA, where we established services in 1977. We serve adults and children with a wide range of disabilities, including intellectual disability, autism, behavioral health and addictive disorders. We began providing services in Allegheny County in 1980, and we continue providing services to people with developmental disabilities – intellectual disabilities and autism – in both Allegheny and Washington Counties. Our Vision is “Opening the doors to Independence and Opportunity,” and we help people realize this vision through a variety of services, including 24 hour residential support, in-home supports, and day programming. We have realized over the years that we cannot succeed without the support of the community at large. And that is why we want the people with whom we share our communities to get to know about us, and the people we serve. We believe that the people we serve should have the opportunity to realize their dreams, including access to the resources needed to make those dreams a reality. Many of the people we serve have aspirations of living independently, engaging in meaningful, long term relationships, obtaining gainful employment, and furthering their education. In the coming months, we will begin offering Supported Employment services, and we are actively seeking to create partnerships with employers in the area who are interested in helping people with developmental disabilities realize their dream of long-term meaningful employment. If you are an employer, or know of an employer, who is interested in helping us realize our vision, and make someone’s dream a reality, please send an e-mail to dcavenaugh@stepbystepusa.com, or call 412.655.8677.
Why Work? Work is an important part of life. People with disabilities benefit from working as much as or more than people without disabilities do. The benefits from work include financial independence and security; increased self-confidence; personal growth; skill development; and a better social life. Perhaps you would like to work but have not been encouraged to do so by your family, friends, or support people in your life. Maybe you are not certain if you can work or what kind of work might be right for you. In person-centered career planning, your personal preferences, goals, and dreams are the focus. A person-centered approach does not mean you have to tackle job exploration all on your own. It does mean that anyone who helps you in your career search and the development of your career dreams respects your wishes and helps you to focus on your skills and abilities. Career development is an ongoing process. Finding satisfying work doesn’t usually just happen by applying for a job in the newspaper. The process involves several phases – and it all begins with you. The three-stage career development process: 1. READY? – Start with yourself. Who are you? Explore and identify your skills, interests, needs, and dreams. 2. GET SET – Learn what’s out there. What type of work fits with your personal profile? What is available in your community to help you reach your goals? 3. GO! – Put your plan into action. What steps can you take to get the right job for you? For a link to this article or for more information please visit the Institute for Community Inclusion at www.communityinclusion.org. This Industry Insight was written by Denise Cavenaugh. Denise has been the Vice President of Western Operations for Step By Step, Inc. since July 2004. She has over 18 years of experience working with community based human services organizations.
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lthough surgery is sometimes an inevitable conclusion to resolve patient discomfort, the physicians of Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates take a conservative approach to treatment. Preventative strategies, physical therapy, medications, diet modification and injections are tried prior to surgical intervention. “We treat all ages here,” says Dr. Mark Lesh of Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates “from kids with sports injuries to the elderly. And we really do our best to always be available for our patients.” One way in which they are able to accomplish this, is by having a physical therapy facility onsite. This enables the doctors to track the progress of patients both pre and postoperatively. “Many times the physical therapist will ask us to take a look at one of our patients who are visiting for rehab. We are able to just drop by and assess the patient and make recommendations based on what we see, without the patient having to schedule another appointment or make another trip,” says Lesh. People having knee replacement surgery now number in the hundreds of thousands each year. Knee arthritis is a common ailment, but there is nothing common about the distress of the pain. This local practice is changing the way knee replacements are being done with promising results for the patient. An innovative new procedure called patient specific instrumentation (PSI), allows the surgeon to evaluate and plan
By Pamela Palongue total knee replacement specific to the patient prior to the date of surgery. A magnetic resonance image (MRI) is taken of the knee which allows the surgeon, using computer modeling, to have the instrumentation designed to the patient’s unique anatomy. According to Dr. Lesh, although this is a relatively new procedure, the results look promising for patient outcomes.
making patients feel more at ease and secure. The practice which was established in Homestead in 1932, maintains the core values of its founder, Dr. Francis O’Malley, who believed in placing the patient first. For more information on Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates, or on the procedures that they perform, you may visit their website at www.steelvalleyortho.com.
Most of the doctors at SVOA are fellowship trained; meaning that they have received additional training beyond what is required of doctors. For example, a recent addition to the staff, Dr. Ryan McMillen is a podiatrist who is fellowship trained in complex foot and ankle problems. Additional treatment options provided by the practice include waterproof casting, visco supplementation (Synvisc/Euflexxa), and an osteoporosis clinic. The physicians are on staff at Jefferson Regional Medical Center and St. Clair Hospital where they perform procedures such as carpal tunnel release, arthroscopy, rotator cuff surgery, fracture repair and total joint replacements. Following surgery, patients can choose to continue their rehabilitation under the guidance of the practice’s physical therapists, Matthew Matta, D.P.T. and Julie Schneider, D.P.T. In addition to superior training, the doctors, physician assistant and physical therapists at SVOA bring a friendly, caring attitude to their jobs, West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 49
business
spotlight
n life, the only thing that does not change is the fact that everything changes. When we graduate from college and enter the workforce, things like retirement, a decline in health, saving for the loss of a job or a spouse or a home, or preparing for an inheritance barely make it onto our field or vision; much less dominate our financial plans. That is, if we even consider a financial plan at that point in our lives. The future feels unlimited and eternal, with plenty of time to save and plan later. Better late than never, perhaps, we at long last appreciate the value of solid financial planning, defined as the process of preparing for financial goals through saving, investing and insuring. Of course, financial planning yields the greatest reward when started early, but human nature being what it is, many of us put it off until later in life. Typically, in our forties and fifties, we have reached our peak earnings years, but are dealing at the same time with many stressful issues involving career pressures and family demands.
Today’s middle-aged population is also known as the “Sandwich Generation,” meaning that just as their children reach college age with the enormous financial demands that implies, they feel pulled emotionally and financially by the health and homecare needs of their parents. Trying to accommodate these demands while simultaneously planning for their own retirement future can take a severe strain on this group, if they have not taken the time and
guide you to your life’s long range goals, your financial comfort and security, your ability to relax and enjoy whatever’s coming next for you and the ones you love. The right plan, executed in partnership with you at every turn, shows the way. the counsel to make a proper financial plan. So how are people expected to feel good about financial planning during these circumstances? And when you add the volatile economic environment that preoccupies the U.S. and most of the world, that question becomes even more relevant. The answer remains very simple and clear – committing to a financial plan with the help of qualified financial counselors who have successfully guided clients through similar market downturns. Founded in 1987, Bill Few Associates is a financial planning firm comprised of professional, experienced financial consultants and investment analysts that serve more than 2,000 families. You may think we are in the financial services business, but we are really in the business of guidance, helping you to feel good about your financial situation and your future. Planning, not just investing, makes the difference. Our firm’s name references “wealth management,” but we are really helping to
The tools we use may be similar to other providers, but we are really here to bring a unique and an exponentially more personal spirit of service. The plan provides the roadmap.
You may think we are in the financial services business, but we are really in the business of guidance, helping you to feel good about your financial situation and your future. Planning, not just investing, makes the difference. That is why you can expect more, expect better, and expect to feel good about your financial picture when you honor us with your business and your relationship. At Bill Few Associates we do not represent any specific financial product or service. We are fee-based financial planners who help our clients with investments, insurance, estate issues, tax issues, and education planning. That means we are free to select from the best available resources in the financial industry to help clients meet their financial goals and objectives. We hope to hear from you soon and look forward to sharing more financial planning information with you through iN Community Magazines in upcoming issues.
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ard to believe that it is time for this discussion, but once the vacation is over and school has started; the next chores on the to do list are not far behind. The last two years cold, windy and icy conditions have caused many problems and numerous homeowner insurance claims. Here is a checklist to help you prepare.
Outdoor plumbing – drain your hose connections, pool & sprinklers. After you turn off the water, leave the spigot in the “on” position.
Test for drafts around your windows. On a windy day, a candle will flicker. Caulk around windows on the inside and outside. Use expandable foam for cracks in basement walls, available in hardware stores. Add weather stripping around drafty doors. Routinely get your furnace tested before cold weather sets in. Prepare a “winter” bin with flashlights, batteries, candles, lighters, a weather radio, maybe some extra blankets. If you want to go one step farther, add canned goods, manual can opener, crackers, nuts, cookies, paper plates. Don’t rob the “winter bin” early! Put all this in a closet equipped with a battery touch light. Provide pipe protection on extremely cold days: Open cabinet doors for pipes on outside walls to avoid freezing, let hot and cold water trickle from faucets, don’t ever shut off the heat if traveling – set it to 55 degrees and have someone check frequently. Know where shut off valves are for a quick response. Consider having a professional install a standby generator. Lastly check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, check fire extinguishers. Stock up on rock salt and a snow shovel. Now that we’re prepared, let the snow fly!
Gutters – don’t forget to clean them out once your trees are bare. Clogged gutters often cause ice dams on the roof, resulting in leaking to the inside of the home. Install heat coil along the roof line with gutters, extending it down into the downspouts as well. Plug it into a GFI outlet (an electrician can do this) and make sure it is turned on (a timer might be a good idea). Use crack filler for cracks in your sidewalk or driveway, especially around the foundation. Trim trees away from the house; squirrels and raccoons can do tremendous damage once they find shelter. Also be sure chimneys are free and clear. If you suspect your roof could be a problem, get it inspected. Many problems cannot be fixed in freezing weather – shingles are brittle, the roof may be covered with ice and snow, and a danger to climb. If your home is old, add a layer of R-30 insulation to the attic ceiling. This Industry Insight was written by Sue Clark. Clark Renovations, Inc.. is a family business, owned by Ron and Sue Clark, renovating South Hills homes for 40 years. Visit our showroom at 3180 Industrial Blvd. Bethel Park, 412.833.7222. Website address: www.clarkremodeling.com.
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
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West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
ith the advent of travel sites on the internet, the way travelers plan their trips has changed in more ways than one. So with all of the online sites out there to choose from, you would think that finding a real flesh and blood travel agent would be near impossible these days. However, you would be very wrong. Live travel agents are still out there making quite a good living from all the shortcomings of the DIY websites. If you enjoy taking a cruise, going to an actual travel agent can save you a lot of headaches. Cruises entail planning multiple aspects of one trip — airfare to the port of departure, which stateroom has the best view, whether you go on the paragliding excursion or tour the Mayan ruins. All of those aspects can be easily handled for you by a travel agent, saving you time and money.
Think you can outbid a travel agent for discount airfare? Think again. You may like the appeal of naming your own fare on a website, but keep in mind that even the giants of internet travel booking still have a limited pool of airlines to pick from. Travel agents don’t. A travel agent can work with smaller or foreign carriers to find you a discount, and some have access to private, reduced fares that can be well worth the cost of the agent’s fees.
Looking for more than just a pair of round-trip tickets? Sometimes travelers have more than one destination in more than one country. Some agents specialize in these global itineraries and can save you the hassle of trying to plot a complicated route for 54 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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your trip. What’s more, if you’re going somewhere that has a warning for Americans issued by the state department, is known for being difficult for tourists, or is simply off the typical American itinerary, your travel agent can make recommendations to help you navigate the terrain, both figuratively and literally.
Special Needs? A Travel Agent Will Accommodate Them. Whether you’re a senior citizen, or looking for an Asian-language safari in the Sahara, travel agents know more about special needs and requests than any website out there. They can help with alternative lifestyle requests such as easily finding a seat on a tour bus for someone with a disability. Your travel agent has likely heard it all when it comes to meeting the specific needs of travelers, so don’t hesitate to ask them about your particular requirements.
What if I’m really stuck? Travel agents can do more than simply rebook your flight if it’s cancelled. Agents can assist in getting you the medical help you need or even cash if your wallet is stolen. A dot-com can’t and won’t do that for their customers. The peace of mind alone can be worth the agent’s fees.
What if I’m not on the internet? Believe it or not, many people still don’t have – or want – access to the internet. Or they may have access, but don’t feel comfortable giving out their credit card numbers online. That’s totally understandable, and yet another reason why having a courteous travel agent smiling back at you can be the difference between getting sunburned…or just getting burned.
Facebook Lawsuit? ostly everyone knows that the use of social media has grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade. What many people don’t realize are the unique risks that come along with social networking. Anyone using Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, or other social networking sites should exercise extreme caution in what they decide to say on-line. As an example, in 2009 a teenager in New York sued some of her classmates and their parents, accusing the classmates of bullying and humiliating her in a Facebook Forum. Whether or not the allegations are true, the teenagers and their parents require legal resources to pay for the possible judgments against them. Many people believe a standard homeowner’s insurance policy will cover them in such a situation. In fact, it probably will not provide the necessary coverage. A standard policy covers bodily injury or property damage done to someone else. It defines bodily injury as sickness, harm or disease, and it defines property damage as destruction of or injury to physical property. Neither definition includes publishing or saying something that injures another person’s reputation. Hence, the policy is not likely to cover a Facebook post. In other words, the policy is unlikely to cover the act of making someone else feel miserable due to social networking. A good source to consider for additional coverage is a personal umbrella policy. This kind of policy provides additional insurance in circumstances where a loss has depleted the amounts of liability insurance offered under a homeowner’s policy. Umbrella policies usually have a deductible of $250 to $500; but have the potential to protect the policyholder from financial devastation. As Americans become more exposed to risk through social networking, they should choose their words carefully on any social networking site. Additionally, they should speak with an insurance professional to see if an umbrella policy is a good match for their insurance needs in an increasingly risky world.
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This Industry Insight was provided by: Joann Cusumano Sciulli, AAI Agency Principal
Rosann Cusumano Elinsky, AAI, LUTCF Agency Principal
Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. • 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills, PA 15236
West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
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continued from page 28
individual must sustain the activity for at least two minutes at 75% to 80% of their maximum heart rate,” says Conboy. Frequently in team sports, there is a stop and start pattern that never allows the participant the chance to get the heart rate to its maximum level for any sustained period. When asked what some of the reasons are for the declining overall fitness levels of today’s children, Conboy feels there may be many factors responsible. “It’s a different world today than it was 20 years ago,” says Conboy. Parents may not feel as comfortable about having their children out playing several blocks from their home or at night. If children are indoors more, they are more likely to be involved in sedentary activities. Conboy also points out that regionally we have a cold winter climate that may prevent outdoor activities in the harshest part of the winter. There’s widespread evidence that children may be watching more TV than their 1980’s counterparts as well. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry claims that children watch TV from three to four hours a day. Other studies place the estimate even higher at 5 ½ hours per day. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that when TV watching, video games and internet use were all combined, children spent an amazing 8 hours per day with some type of media! There is no question that physical fitness helps to make us healthier. We will all have to stay tuned to find out if physical fitness also makes us smarter.
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