IN Woodland Hills by IN Community Magazines

oodland Hills

WINTER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

W.H. High School

Plays for Breast Cancer Awareness Rankin Christian Center Continues Its Mission United Cerebral Palsy Opens in Swissvale

safety-driven

INSIDE

IN Woodland Hills is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Woodland Hills area 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.

IN Woodland Hills | WINTER 2011 |

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Hear Well Center .............................. | 6 Allegheny Chesapeake Physical Therapy ............................... | 34 Juniper Village Gift Giving Ideas for Seniors ........................ | 40 ON THE COVER

WH High School Field Hockey Team Plays for Breast Cancer Awareness WINTER 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

BundleUp,Baby Remember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands. Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

What’s Inside page 2

A Special Message to Our Community

page 3

When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen

page 4

Make a Date With Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5 page 6

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track Falls Are No Laughing Matter

COMMUNITY INTEREST

United Cerebral Palsy Center Grand Opening .............

Woodland Hills School District News .............................

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ...........

C.C. Mellor Library News ...................................................

Heritage Community Initiatives .......................................

Rankin Christian Center ......................................................

Open Your Heart To A Senior ..............................................

Woodland Hills Earned Income Tax .................................

Woodland Hills Area Community Worship ...................

safetydriven learn more on page 5

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

oodland Hills Welcome to the Winter issue of Woodland Hills magazine. I hope you and yours had a wonderful fall, that the kids transitioned back to school well, and that you had an opportunity to catch a few Steelers games along the way. We all view winter differently – some see it as the holiday season, some see it as the gloomy period when we put away the swim trunks and patio furniture. Others see it as their opportunity to break out the skis and sleds and hit the slopes. No matter how you view it, winter is a time when we have to be the most diligent, despite our mood about snow, or our preoccupation with playing in it, for those who need us the most – our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many of them to get around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial of terror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will I get groceries? Will I be home before it’s too dark for me to see the road well enough to drive? And for those who have transitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be of an altogether different, but equally unsettling nature. Will anyone visit me for Christmas? Hanukkah? New Year’s? These are our mothers, fathers, friends and neighbors, and they don’t like to ask anything of us. But they need us just the same. I know the economy is bad, and I’m not saying go out and spend money you can’t afford, but going caroling with a church group, or visiting someone who has no one is free to us all. Chances are, you’ll not only put a smile on their faces, you’ll be giving them something money can’t buy – the feeling that someone cares. Have a joyous holiday and a happy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher I agree with Andy Williams. It is the most wonderful time of the year. Welcome to the winter edition of Woodland Hills. This is is the season of hustle and bustle, Christmas carols, and most importantly good cheer. In this edition, you'll find out all the great things that have been going on in the Woodland Hills School District since our last edition, among them the dedication of a new mock courtroom, which included a visit from Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala. Also find out how WH students placed at this year's Creative Conference, and which student was selected to participate by the Women and Girls Foundation of Pittsburgh to participate in the 2011 Girl Gov program. Swissvale also got a new neighbor with the opening of the United Cerebral Palsy/Class facility on Braddock Avenue. UCP/Class celebrated the opening and its 60th anniversary at the same time, and we were there for the festivities. In this edition, we also catch up with the Rankin Christian Center, which has been helping residents in the region for quite a while, and Heritage Community Iniatives, a Braddock non-profit, which gets some assistance from Carlow University students. Our spring edition is next and we'd love to hear from you regarding the people, places and events you'd like to see us cover. During this holiday season, we'd like to wish you peace and goodwill. And as always we hope you enjoy this edition of Woodland Hills.

Monica L. Haynes Eastern Regional Editor

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PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com REGIONAL EDITORS

Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Dana Black McGrath [North] d.mcgrath@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

WRITERS

Ashley Connor Heather Holtschlage Leigh Lyons Joann Naser

Pamela Palongue Gina Salinger Judith Schardt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brad Lauer Kathleen Rudolph

Gary Yon

PROOFREADER

Kelly Lotter ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Tamara Myers

ADVERTISING SALES

Bruce Burkley Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graff Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri

Aimee Nicolia Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard

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 Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring content deadline: March 7

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

UCP Opens New Facility or six decades, United Cerebral Palsy Community Living and Support Services (UCP/Class) has been creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live, work, and play in their communities. On September 12, the non-profit organization which servves 4,000 people a day, celebrated its 60th anniversary with the opening of a new facility in Swissvale. The location is actually the former Center for Creative Play on Braddock Avenue, and is the organization's second facility. It's first is on Centre Avenue in Oakland. Officials from Swissvale and Allegheny County, UCP administrators, staff, board members, and clients, past and present, were on hand for the opening and to tour the new location. Among those who spoke during the program were Al Condelucci, UCP/Class CEO; Maggie Guzzo, UCP/Class board president, Deneen Swartzwelder, Mayor of Swissvale; Jack Snook, UCP/Class Director of the Centre Services; Irene Nelson, longest continuing UCP/Class board member; UCP/Class board member Gerald Farbaugh and Gary Loutsenhizer, a client of UCP/Class since 1955. “We are excited about this new venture,” Colucci said. “It allows us to reconnect five of our teams that have been housed in rented satellite offices. Not only will this building unify our teams and enhance communications, it will ensure that consumers requesting services and supports in the community receive them in the most effective and efficient way possible. Consumers receiving multiple services will benefit from improvements in enhanced communication among centralized staff, centralized record-keeping and advanced supports customization as time is used more effectively.” The organziation purchased the building in June and renovated it into 30,000-square feet of office space for 110 employees. The facility includes staff offices, a kitchen, a meeting room, and storage space.

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

The employees of Peoples Natural Gas – more than 650 strong – are bringing a new sense of energy to Western Pennsylvania. With Peoples now fully Pittsburgh based and run, decisions are being made locally -- with an eye to investing for the energy future of the region. We're making $100 million in infrastructure, service and technology upgrades to better serve our more than 360,000 customers. Customer service is becoming fully local, too... with a dedicated new service center staffed by experienced people who thoroughly know the region and its people. Our vision: to help Western Pennsylvania move forward by creating new jobs and serving our customers well. It's a commitment we're proud to make.

In the photo: DAVE BERTONI / FITTER LEADER

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peoples–ga s.com

safety-driven Peoples Natural Gas is embarking on an extensive program to modernize our infrastructure. More than $100 million will be invested to replace pipelines throughout our 16 county service territory. In 2011 and 2012, this means replacing 40 miles of old cast-iron pipes wherever they exist. This year and next, Peoples Natural Gas is hiring 60 new pipeline workers. And, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to employ almost as many local contract workers. Last year, we brought back 200 jobs to the region. These are not temporary jobs, but family sustaining jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the type of jobs that generations build on. Through the end of 2012, you will see Peoples Natural Gas employees hard at work on this project. They will be working in the snow and sun to improve the infrastructure for our communities. Our goal is to replace all the cast iron pipe in our entire system. This is an extensive project and we will need your patience and understanding as we work to complete it. In 2010, Peoples Natural Gas was purchased from an out-of-state company. We are now a Western Pennsylvania managed company. All our management lives in the region. Our sole priority is serving our local communities. Our new company has refocused its total efforts right here. This pipeline replacement program is the first major construction initiative of Peoples Natural Gas and it has been made for your safety, and the need to modernize our infrastructure for the future.

Safety is the number one priority of Peoples Natural Gas. Every day, we strive to keep our customers, our employees and our communities safe. Here are 3 Sensible Words about Natural Gas to help keep you and your family safe. Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs. SIGHT Escaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the group may indicate a natural gas leak. SOUND Natural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitched whistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure. SMELL A strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell. If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples Natural Gas by calling 1.800.400.4271.

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Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

Message from the Superintendent Dear Members of the Woodland Hills School District,

As we approach the mid-point of our school year, I have much good news to share with you. You will read in this issue that our Woodland Hills Academy was recognized for its excellence in a national report on extended time schools. The report, “Time Well Spent: Eight Powerful Practices of Successful, Expanded-Time Schools” was compiled by the National Center on Time & Learning (NCTL). I am very proud of the work our students are doing there and of the teachers and staff who are doing an exemplary job. I would especially like to commend Academy Principal Reginald Hickman who represented Woodland Hills in Washington D.C. at the national news conference when the NCTL report was presented to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. More Good News

Our good news continues with an announcement that I am particularly proud to make. The Heinz Endowments, a regional foundation based in Pittsburgh that directs most of its giving to southwestern Pennsylvania, has awarded a $750,000 grant to our District to be used to reach a particular segment of our student population. In Woodland Hills, as well as nationally, African-American males have been underrepresented in the higher level secondary classes and in post-secondary education. Our graduation records for the 2009-10 year show that our graduating class of 352 students was evenly split racially: 49% white and 49% African American students. But the dropout rate tells another story. White students were 23% of the total number of drop-outs in the 2009-10 school year, while 76.5% of all drop-outs from the high school were African American. The rate of black male drop-outs was 14% higher than black females; 31% higher than white male drop-outs; and 36% higher than white female drop-outs. We went to the Heinz Endowments with a proposal to address this imbalance and they have agreed to provide the tools to help us successfully achieve our goals.

news Goals and Strategies

What are the goals and strategies for our new grant? Briefly here are the top four goals of the program: ■ Influence the creation of a culture of academic achievement by African American males in our schools and in our communities ■ Create opportunities for meaningful involvement by African American males in our schools and in our communities. ■ Create partnerships between our schools and our communities that jointly promote a scholar identity for our African American male youth. ■ Increase the number of African American males from Woodland Hills who enroll in and graduate from college and, in particular, increase the number of these students who choose education as a career. You may wonder how we will achieve such lofty goals. One of our strategies is to use the Scholar Identity Framework developed by Dr. Gilman Whiting and Dr. Donna Ford of the Scholar Identity Institute for Black Males at Vanderbilt University. These two Vanderbilt faculty members are the leading experts in the country working to ameliorate the academic problems of African American and other minority students in the nation’s k-12 schools—the so-called “achievement gap.” I will provide more detailed information during the coming year about this program that we are all very excited about. We will be keeping everyone abreast of the progress we are making and the strategies we are utilizing to obtain the positive results we expect. We have a determined team of educators in the Woodland Hills School District who have demonstrated their talent and conviction to effect real and lasting change in our students’ lives. And our District has made supporting our young African American men a priority as we go forward into the 21st century. Despite what federal or state mandates require, the Woodland Hills School District is committed to “leaving no child behind.” Sincerely,

Walter M. Calinger, Ph.D. Superintendent

All material has been prepared and written by Maria McCool, Director of Communications for the WHSD. Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

Report Shows How Effective Use of Expanded Learning Time Boosts Student Achievement

WH Academy Principal Reginald Hickman

he Woodland Hills School District is earning national recognition for its success in using expanded learning time to boost student achievement. The Woodland Hills Academy is one of 30 schools from across the country featured in a new national report that examines effective practices for improving teaching and learning at expanded-time schools. The report was released at an event with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan in Washington, D.C. on September 30 and WH Academy Principal Reginald Hickman represented Woodland Hills at the event. "To receive national recognition for innovations that are making a difference in student achievement is a momentous occasion for our District,” noted Academy Principal Reginald Hickman. “Such recognition says that this model can serve as a blueprint for our District and others, for improving student performance by increasing student time on task. “ “This honor is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff and student body of the Woodland Hills Academy,” Mr. Hickman added. “I am proud to say that I am the principal of the Woodland Hills Academy." The report, “Time Well Spent: Eight Powerful

WHSD School Board Members: Current WHSD Board Members: (l-r) Sitting: Colleen Filiak, Barry Driscoll (Vice-President), Marilyn Messina (President), Robert Rinsma; Standing: Fred Kuhn, Robert Tomasic, Randy Lott, Robert Clanagan. (Missing from photo: Brian Estocin)

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WH Academy Featured in National Report on High-Performing, Expanded-Time Schools

Woodland Hills

Practices of Successful, Expanded-Time Schools”, from the National Center on Time & Learning (NCTL), outlines how high-performing, expanded-time schools implement one or more of eight different practices to help improve student achievement, including allocating time towards focused goals; individualizing learning time and instruction based on student needs; and using time to assess student data in order to continuously strengthen instruction. Superintendent of the Woodland Hills School District, Dr. Walter Calinger says the WH Academy model proves that more quality time-on-task produces better output from students. “It just makes sense that more quality instructional time provided to students produces better measurable results as indicated by test scores and grades.” “And another benefit accrued to school districts from the extended school day and year is its cost-effectiveness. We are getting a much greater yield from a disproportionately slighter increase in resources utilized,” added Dr. Calinger. The national study, “Time Well Spent”, includes a case study on the Woodland Hills Academy. To read the full report, including the case study, visit the link: http://www.timeandlearning.org/index.html. The Woodland Hills Academy is a K - 8 school and integrates technology and foreign language into the curriculum at all grade levels.

AD HOC COMMITTEE SURVEY In order for the WHSD school board and the administration to obtain community feedback on transformational changes in the infrastructure and facilities, curriculum, instructional practices, staff and fiscal resources, we are asking community residents to answer a few survey questions. The survey can be completed on-line at the District website: www.whsd.net. Hard copies of the survey will also be available at the Administration Building, 2430 Greensburg Pike, Churchill or at any of our schools. Surveys will be available on December 12, 2011 and must be completed and returned by January 13, 2012.

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Junior High & Academy Students win

Creative Convention Woodland Hills Junior High School and Woodland Hills Academy 7th and 8th grade students won first place at this year's Creative Convention hosted by Springdale Middle School. This was an ESSPA competition in which students showcased their creative ability in a variety of areas. They had a construction exercise and had to produce and present a skit. The first place team consisted of a blended Junior High and Academy team composed of students: J. Pike, Seamus McGuigan, Alex Havrilla, Abby Kane, and Katie Ryan. Woodland Hills also achieved third place with a team of Academy and Junior High students Lily Briggs, Rachel Hosack, Jessica Burch, Sophia McCullough and Riley Aul. Brendan Howell took home the award for best costume. The teams were coached by Gifted Teacher Ms. Heather Nyapas.

❆ SCHOOL DELAYS & CANCELLATIONS

❆ On a snowy morning, everyone wants to know as soon as possible if there is going to be a school delay or closing. The most reliable way to get that information is to call the DISTRICT NEWSLINE 412.256.3324. Information pertaining to delays, cancellations, or early dismissals of Woodland Hills schools or activities due to inclement weather or emergency situations will be on the NEWSLINE. Current updates will also be posted on the District website: www.whsd.net on the News Page or on the District twitter page: woodlandhillssd immediately. Information will also be sent out via the Alert Now Phone Call System as early as possible. Parents can have the message sent to their home phone or cell phones. Please make sure your contact information is updated and current or you will not receive the phone messages. Information will also be sent to the following radio/TV stations: ❆ KDKA TV and Radio 1020AM ❆ WTAE TV and Radio 1250AM ❆ WPXI TV ❆ KQV Radio 1410AM

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Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

WHHS gets fit and active in the

Living Well Program S tudents of Woodland Hills High School can participate in a new extracurricular activity that will not only look good on a college application, but will trim down their waist lines as well. The Living Well program, funded by The Heinz Endowments, focuses on educating students about health and nutrition. The team, consisting of 25 students per semester, meets twice a week after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm. Mrs. Andrea Kennedy, the high school nurse, gym teacher Mrs. Deborah Fischer, and foods and nutrition teacher Mrs. Marilyn Keteles run the program along with help from other teachers in the high school. The program is based on four main components; healthy eating, lifelong physical activity, stress management, and positive self-esteem. The meetings contain an exercise segment, where students take part in light to moderate exercise, and a healthy cooking segment, where students learn how to make healthier foods and incorporate them into their diet. Students also learn how to eat healthily during special occasions, including healthy eating during holidays and at restaurants. Daily nutrition diaries and calorie counter books were given to the students to help them keep track of their daily eating and exercise. The program supplies pedometers, portion plates, and other prizes for the students as well. Stress management and positive self-esteem techniques

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are also part of the program to help students better manage their day-to-day activities. Students participate in yoga as well as Zumba to help relieve and prevent stress. WebMD.com says that during yoga there is “a decrease in catecholamine, the hormones produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress.” Yoga also lowers the levels of neurotransmitters, which helps create that feeling of calm. Not only does yoga help relieve stress, but it is said to improve concentration and mood, according to WebMD.com. “It is very important for students to learn these components in high school. A healthy lifestyle started in the teenage years will continue on into adulthood with less risk for chronic disease,” says Mrs. Kennedy. Healthy eating and exercise help prevent high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, iron deficiency and help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Not only does Living Well help students improve their overall lifestyle, but it also provides a fun, educational environment for students. “This program is a great way for students to make friends and have fun while learning about ways to live a healthier lifestyle,” says Mrs. Kennedy. Applications for the Living Well Spring 2012 program are available in the high school nurse’s office. –Taylor Madigan, WHHS student

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

WHSD Cafeteria Accounts Are Now Online What is MyNutriKids.com? MyNutrikids.com® is a secure, family friendly system for online school meal prepayments and nutrition education. MyNutrikids.com offers three services: ■ MyKids (Online Prepayments) Allows parents to deposit money on their children’s school meal account via credit/debit card or Paypal account. ■ MyTray (Interactive Menus) Parents and students are able to view school breakfast and lunch options in a fun, interactive manner while learning how food choices contribute to the nutritional quality of their diet. ■ MyNutrition (Nutrition Education) Provides educational opportunities for school age families and district staff related to health, nutrition and physical activity. Resources include articles, tips, tools, recipes, links, challenges and a section just for kids designed to appeal to your entire school community. MyKids gives parents a fast, easy, and secure way to add money to their children's school meal accounts (using a credit, debit card or a PayPal account), check their children's current school meal account balances, and monitor what items their children have been purchasing at school. Features: ■ Secure online prepayments via credit / debit card or PayPal™ account ■ 24/7 self service access to balances and transaction history ■ Low balance email notification based on your pre-set levels ■ Self-directed The Process 1. The payment process begins when you deposit money into your child's account using the MyKids service from MyNutrikids.com. If multiple children are on one parent account you can make multiple deposits in one transaction. The deposit amount can be placed against a credit card, debit card, PayPal account balance, or your checking account linked with PayPal. There is a convenience fee when you pre-pay online of $1.75 per transaction. 2. Once the transaction is finalized the payment is transferred securely to PayPal. PayPal checks your financial institution to make sure the amount can be credited to your child's school meal account before completing the transaction. 3. When the amount clears, the transaction is downloaded into your school district’s Point of Sale system where it will update your child's account balance. Parents can sign up for this program on the WHSD website. There is a link on the Home page for MyNutriKids.com. Also there are answers to frequently asked questions at MyNutriKids.com. For questions about balances, recent payments, or menus please contact the Woodland Hills Food Services Department at 412.731.1300, ext. 0187. Pre-payments may also be made to a child’s account by sending a check to school. Checks should be made out to “Woodland Hills Food Service” and the student’s name and ID number must be on the check. Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

Model Courtroom Dedicated at WHHS hrough the generosity of the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office and the Greater PA Council of Carpenters, the Mock Trial Team at Woodland Hills High School will be able to practice in a replica of an actual courtroom. This beautiful model was dedicated at the High School on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 in Room 100. Present were Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala and members of his staff, representatives of the Carpenters’ Union and members of the District’s administration. “These kids are proud of who they are and they’ve made it cool to be smart. They are role models in this school. Since we’ve had such good results here, we are doing this same thing in Clairton and plan to do this in a bunch of other schools,” Mr. Zappala said. Woodland Hills High School was chosen for one of the first installations because our mock trial team has a long history of excellence. Woodland Hills students have represented Allegheny County at the state finals four times out of the last seven years. “I think we are really excited about this because it is such an opportunity for the kids to use the space and be

comfortable in the sort of more intimidating environment that a courtroom can sometimes be,” explained Team Advisor Jamie Glasser. Current team members include students Maggie Baker, Mary Caparosa, Alex Howell, Vincent LeDonne, Kimberlee Moore, Michaela Buzzard, Mitchell Rode, Erin Schwoegl, Miranda Johnston, Myah Olson, and Mike Smith. Senior Vince LeDonne who spoke at the dedication said the team is like a second family to him. “Mock Trial gives me a chance to come together with my teammates, and working together and having fun as a team has made us friends.” LeDonne also said that the model court room provides a place for the team to practice in an environment similar to where they compete. Maggie Baker, also a senior, agreed with LeDonne. “We’ve been a family and now we have a house.” For the 2011 season, the team ranked third overall in Allegheny County and was the first ranked public school in the state. The team is coached by retired WHHS teacher Mr. Rich Stanczak, Woodland Hills alumna and lawyer Ms. Jamie Glasser, and WHHS faculty member Mr. Kevin McGuire.

Mock Trial Team Members and Coach Kevin McGuire

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Team members show trophies won in county and state competitions

Running for

State Office? Elena Mroczkowski, a junior at Woodland Hills High School, was selected by the Women and Girls Foundation of Pittsburgh (www.wgfpa.org) to participate in the 2011 GirlGov program.

Courtroom model constructed by Greater Pgh Regional Council of Carpenters

District Attorney Zappala (rt) and D.A. Project Manager Art Keenan (left)

The participants spent a full day shadowing a state legislator in Harrisburg, toured the capitol, attended legislative meetings, and met legislators, lobbyists, and journalists working in Harrisburg. On October 18, one hundred girls and fifty legislators from Allegheny, Washington, Green, and Fayette Counties, participated in this year’s event. “This is a great way to engage more girls in civics,” said Heather Arnet, CEO of the Women and Girls Foundation, which created the GirlGov program. “Pennsylvania is ranked 42nd out of the 50 states for the representation of women in politics, so we want to encourage more women to run for office.” In the Pennsylvania General Assembly: there are currently 32 female members in the House and 11 in the Senate. But, the tide is slowly turning, since 2004 there has been a 300% increase in women running for state office. The girls attended committee meetings and legislative sessions, and had a chance to talk with lawmakers about bills that would directly impact their lives such as the Gender Equity in Athletics Act and a cyberbullying bill. The GirlGov program is open to girls in 8th to 12th grade who live in Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, & Washington Counties. In 2011, GirlGov was supported through the generosity of grants from The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, PNC Bank, the FISA Foundation, and the Fine Foundation. Students interested in applying for next year’s event should visit the WGF website at www.wgfpa.org for an application for 2012. Transportation and meals are included and there is no fee to participate.

Dedication plaque in high school

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news High School College Access Center Has A New Location Students have been finding their way to the new location of the College Access Center office in the SA wing of the High School. The College Access Center moved from a small room at a very busy intersection to a room 4 times the size in a quiet hallway. The move has been a positive boost to the CAC awareness. Bright signs are posted throughout the hallways announcing the move and directing students and parents to the new location. The center is staffed by Academic Consultant Joyce Fratangelo and Campus Coordinator Jennifer Damico. The office is open to students, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 p.m. The CAC is funded by the College Access Challenge Grant. The College Access Program has several major goals: to help our students obtain more financial aid for post-secondary education; to help

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them do better on the SAT and ACT college admission tests; to raise the awareness of the variety and extent of potential careers and colleges for Woodland Hills graduates; and to provide academic support for targeted students who are struggling or not testing up to current grade levels. The Center accomplishes these goals in several ways and through many types of events and activities. During senior classroom visits, students are introduced to the need to complete FAFSA applications for financial aid consideration. Announcements for current scholarships are made whenever a new opportunity occurs and scholarship opportunities are posted in the College Access Center (CAC). Students are also told about potential scholarships during the classroom visits. The CAC staff facilitates student registration for the SAT and ACT exams and both Mrs. Fratangelo and Ms. Damico have been approved to host the ACT exam at WHHS in December 2011. The CAC also offers assistance with college applications and essays. Academic support is provided in the “Homework Zone” that opened on August 29. Members of the 9th grade junior varsity football team are regular visitors. The Homework Zone is open Mondays through

Fridays from 2:05 p.m – 3:30 p.m. The College Access Center has assumed the responsibility of scheduling and hosting the admissions counselors who come to Woodland Hills to meet with students and also schedules college trips during the school year. Since parent involvement in college planning and preparation is vitally important, the CAC offers support and guidance to parents whose child is a first generation college applicant by offering a Parent University. These workshops are open to all parents of students participating in the College Access program. Parents are advised of their role in the study skills and habits of their children and they are informed about the services available through the CAC. The Center also offers workshops for students such as the “Getting Organized for Success” workshop. Students are taught effective organizational skills and techniques that will help them succeed in school. Because of the new location, the CAC has a much larger capacity for serving students. In the old location, 7 students at a time could be served, the new office can accommodate up to 30 students. Even though the CAC is not in a high-traffic location as before, more students are finding the center. There is a steady stream of students daily using the center’s services.

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Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

Tour du District Riders Brave Weather The Woodland Hills Foundation held its annual Tour du District Bike Ride and fundraiser on October 1. Although the day was rainy, bikers and volunteers were dressed for the occasion. Once again, the municipalities were very generous with their support of the event as were the many district volunteers. The event raised $3,000 to support the work of the Foundation. The Woodland Hills Foundation is an independent non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to enhancing opportunities for all students, as well as, faculty and administration in the Woodland Hills School District by encouraging community-wide participation and philanthropy. The Foundation is distinct and separate from the school district; however, it has strong linkage to District leadership to ensure tight alignment and success.

Please feel free to contact the Woodland Hills Foundation if you are interested in learning more about the Foundation's work, goals and objectives, or if you are interested in serving on one of the Foundation's six committees: the Allocation Committee, the Fundraising Committee, the Finance Committee, the Public Relations Committee, the Information Technology Committee, and the Governance Committee. Woodland Hills Foundation P.O. Box 321, Turtle Creek, PA 15145 Phone: 1.888.281.3241, Contact the Foundation by E-Mail at info@whsdfoundation.org

Community Swim News he district pools reopened to the public on September 19 after a very busy summer. Currently the Woodland Hills Junior High pool is open to all district residents on Monday evenings 6-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings 9:30-11:30 a.m. In addition, the Woodland Hills Academy pool is open on Wednesday evenings 5:30-7:30 p.m. The pools are also available for birthday and other types of parties. Staff is available to work with scout troops completing water safety badges. Contact Tori Zido for additional information at tori@whatswimming.org. On October 27 the Braddock Family Swim and Recreation program kicked off its fall/winter activities at the Woodland Hills Junior High pool. This is a continuation of collaborative programming begun this past summer between the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Recreation Swim program, Woodland Hills Aquatic Team and the Braddock Summer Parks Drop-In Program. The program, limited to Braddock families, will run the first and third Thursday of every month, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Junior High. Funding has been secured from Braddock Redux to provide busing for children and parents from various locations in Braddock to the Junior High. Activities will include swim lessons and water safety instruction, gym games, dance and cooking classes. Other activities will be added as arrangements are finalized. Advance reservations are required and can be made by calling Mrs. Teri Gilmore at 412-271-3808. Donations to support this program can be directed to Braddock Redux, P. O. 416, Braddock, PA 15104. Please note on your check (made out to Braddock Redux) that your donation is in support of the Braddock Family Swim and Recreation program.

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Woodland Hills

WINTER 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

What’s Inside

page 2

A Special Message to Our Community

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When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen

page 4

Make a Date With Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

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Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

page 7

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track Falls Are No Laughing Matter

A Special Message to

Our Community Dear Friends of UPMC McKeesport, Over the past several months, you’ve likely heard rumors about the future of UPMC McKeesport. We’ve heard them too, and I want to take this opportunity to say that UPMC McKeesport is — and commits to continue to be — your community hospital. For 117 years, residents of McKeesport and the surrounding historic Monongahela Valley have counted on our hospital’s physicians, nurses, technicians, and staff for quality and compassionate care. Our merger with UPMC in 1998 only served to strengthen our resources. Patients of UPMC McKeesport now benefit from the latest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional capabilities, including UPMC Cancer Centers at UPMC McKeesport. We’re also able to offer access to expert care from UPMC’s extensive roster of medical specialists.

“UPMC McKeesport is — and commits to continue to be — your community hospital.”

Our 1,000-plus employees — your friends, neighbors, and family members — are proud and dedicated professionals who truly care about this community. They are passionate about the work they do. They are compassionate and thoughtful caregivers. And, they are deeply committed to the ongoing growth and vitality of UPMC McKeesport.

“Since its founding in 1894, our hospital has evolved to meet the changing needs of the residents of the Monongahela Valley. Patients of UPMC McKeesport now benefit from the latest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional capabilities.”

Since its founding in 1894, our hospital has evolved to meet the changing needs of the residents of the Monongahela Valley, through times good and bad. Today, we recognize our presence is more vital than ever before. You have our pledge — and that of UPMC’s senior administration — that we are here to stay. With my best regards,

Cynthia M. Dorundo CEO, UPMC McKeesport

Did You Know?

• New patient services, including a Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program (see story on page 7) and a Palliative and Support Institute, are expected to launch before the end of this year.

Here are just a few of the many examples that help to illustrate UPMC McKeesport’s long-term commitment to the Monongahela Valley:

• In 2010, more than $8 million was invested in improvements to the hospital’s infrastructure. In the coming year, an additional $12 million will be invested in further enhancements.

UPMC.com/Today

• Emergency visits to UPMC McKeesport have increased by 17 percent in the past two years. • Hospital admissions at UPMC McKeesport rose 23 percent in the past two years. An 18-bed unit was added to the fourth floor of the Shaw Building to serve the increased volume of patients.

When Your BodyTalks…

Be Sure toListen Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection and treatment of cancer and other serious medical problems Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can be an excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms. There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions. That’s why you should call your primary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lasting longer than two or three weeks, says Edward Chu, MD, chief of the Division of Hematology/ Oncology at UPMC and deputy director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. “The vast majority of patients will get a clean bill of health from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu. “But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”

Symptoms that reveal Most of us know to be on the lookout for such important cancer warning signs as a sore that does not heal; a thickening or lump in the breast, or other parts of the body; blood in the stool or urine; or changes in the size or color of a mole.

Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalized body changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that can compromise your physical performance and overall well-being. By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll be better able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur. They can include: • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) • Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more) or loss of appetite • Changes in how food tastes • Fever and chills • Night sweats • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing “These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.” If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Did You Know? The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), based at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, is the only National Cancer Institutedesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania. Learn more about UPCI and its partnership with UPMC Cancer Centers at UPCI.UPMC.edu.

Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you? Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. “When combined with regular checkups with your family doctor or specialist, screenings like mammograms, PAP smears, and colorectal exams have proven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer,” says Kevin Kane, MD, of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC McKeesport. “Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age, and other considerations will help your physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.” To learn more about the program and services of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC McKeesport, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Make a Date With Your Doctor You take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving your body the same kind of attention? When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep! “Your annual exam is the perfect time to talk with your doctor about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any screenings,” says David Harinstein, MD, a physician with Health First Medical and UPMC McKeesport. “That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on making changes to improve your health.” Building an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) also means peace of mind. “There’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency,” adds Dr. Harinstein.

Your exam checklist How can you make the most of your annual exam? Here are four things to do before you see the doctor:

1. Make a list of all medications you are taking Include all prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.

2. Update your family history Your family history can provide important clues about your risk for certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, and heart disease.

3. Ask about health screenings Screenings can be important tools in preventing some illnesses and diseases. Get a list of recommended screenings and talk about them with your doctor.

4. Make a list of questions or health concerns Asking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care. One final piece of advice: Be honest. “Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something,” says Dr. Harinstein. “What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.”

UPMC.com/Today

Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat Winter is the season for sniffles, scratchy throats, and earaches — often all at once! And with good reason: our ears, nose, and throat all are connected and affect each other greatly. Otolaryngologists (also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in caring for this complex, interrelated system. Test your ENT knowledge with this quick quiz:

Who gets earaches more often — children or adults? Nearly every child experiences at least one ear infection between infancy and the age of five — something weary parents know firsthand. Because children have shorter, straighter Eustachian tubes (which connect the nose to the ears), it’s easier for bacteria to migrate into their ears.

Why are you more likely to get a nosebleed in winter? The same heated indoor air that makes your home cozy in winter also can dehydrate the inside of your nose. It can become crusted or cracked, or can even bleed. A dry nose makes you more susceptible to germs, so exercise good nose care. Lightly coat the inside with petroleum jelly. Overthe-counter saline mists and sprays (not decongestants) also are helpful.

Will antibiotics cure laryngitis? Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that make the vocal cords swell — so antibiotics are ineffective. Your best course of action? Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and cut back on talking. Straining your voice when you have acute laryngitis can damage your vocal cords. Source: American Society of Otolaryngology

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital. “UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer for UPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.” Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.

SmartRoom® technology brings it all to you Launched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology. SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerized software programs give caregivers fingertip access to all the information essential to your care — from your electronic medical records to the tests you’ll need that day.

The SmartRoom concept simplifies workflow and makes documentation of your care faster and easier. Each room has two screens: one for your caregivers, and another for you to access email, entertainment, and a vast library of patient education videos and information.

The right meds at the right time “It is our goal to make the hospitalization and discharge experience as stress-free as possible for our patients and their families,” says Jacqueline Dailey, UPMC’s vice president for Solutions for Medical Science, Research, and Patient Centered Accountable Care. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital, they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in their medications and how to take them.” “We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessment of your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminated during your stay, this information is instantly available to all your physicians — from your family doctor to the specialists caring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acute care.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medication orders from your doctors. Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”

1-800-533-UPMC

Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing with action figures alone in his Pitcairn home, when the tics began — involuntary arm flicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.

That’s especially difficult for adolescents who want to fit in. Tics, such as throat clearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain. At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts: two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.

Tom and Amy Barnishin first thought their son’s behavior was linked to the start of the school year and peer pressure. When symptoms grew worse, and other tics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) in January 2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.

Be in the know about TS Treatment varies.While there’s no cure, medication sometimes helps control tics. Psychologists can teach habit reversal and relaxation techniques to help patients cope with stress and reduce symptoms. But the most important treatment is education, says Dr. Coffman. “That includes educating families, educators, and the general public about TS.”

Diagnosing Tourette syndrome TS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys. The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throatclearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include two or more motor tics and at least one vocal tic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.

Did You Know? An estimated 200,000 Americans have TS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder. For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inherited neurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.

UPMC.com/Today

Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics. They experience a sensation that makes them feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.

Other TS facts include: • TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population. • People in every walk of life, including professional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS. • Less than 15 percent of TS patients swear or use inappropriate expressions.

“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven, now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment. The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support. “Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, we were part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom. To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as the service, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track UPMC McKeesport’s new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program is designed to improve outcomes for older patients With 206 bones in the human body, bone fractures are fairly common. They can happen to anyone regardless of age or health. Specialized care for bone fractures and joint replacement needs for patients of all ages is the focus of the new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport.

A faster fix for hip fractures

Designed to accelerate the treatment of geriatric fracture patients, this evidence-based program is modeled after a similar one in use nationwide. “It clearly demonstrates that geriatric fracture patients who are fast-tracked through the ED have a speedier recovery and fewer complications, and require less pain medication,” explains “ Faster Dr. Tranovich.

fracture repair means a quicker return to mobility.”

With any bone fracture, the doctor’s primary goal is to get the pieces back into position and keep them from moving until they are healed — and to do it as quickly as possible. That’s especially important for older adults whose age and complex medical problems often can complicate a fracture. Hip fractures in the elderly usually occur as the result of a fall, and can pose special challenges. (See story below for tips on preventing falls.) “Any bone fracture in an elderly person is serious, but hip fractures are the most serious,” says Michael Tranovich, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC McKeesport. “Faster fracture repair means a quicker return to mobility. That’s essential to reducing a patient’s risk of life-threatening complications, such as blood clots, drug-induced dementia, and pneumonia.” Dr. Tranovich was instrumental in developing the new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport.

Falls Are No Laughing Matter Pratfalls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’re deadly serious. Falls are the leading injury-related reason people go to the emergency department. Each year, more than a million Americans suffer a slip, trip, or fall injury, resulting in more than 17,000 deaths. If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a fracture, seek medical attention immediately.

– Michael Tranovich, MD

Most hip fractures in elderly patients are treated surgically. If underlying health issues such as diabetes or heart failure delay the procedure, the risk of complications increases. “Our immediate goal is to get a patient into surgery within 24 hours,” says Dr. Tranovich. “Ultimately, we’d like to get that down to 18 hours.”

Key benefits aren’t just for seniors Anyone over the age of 18 who comes to UPMC McKeesport’s ED with a fracture to the hip, ankle, wrist, or hand will be treated quickly. The program also provides a comprehensive continuum of care before, during, and after surgery for patients in need of joint replacements. “This program, but it is definitely a win-win for the entire community,” says Dr. Tranovich. To learn more about the Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com.

Three things you can do to avoid falls Falls don’t have to be an inevitable part of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others, including: Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especially steps. Make sure carpets and handrails are secure. Use a nonskid mat in your bath. If you have small children, use safety locks on windows and be sure cribs, infant swings, and other pieces of equipment are placed securely. Older children and adults should always wear protective gear when biking, skiing, or skating.

Exercise: Exercises that promote strength, balance, and body coordination are especially important to prevent falls. Many doctors recommend the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults. See your doctor regularly: Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlying medical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experience problems like dizziness due to medications.

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC McKeesport 1500 Fifth Ave. McKeesport, PA 15132

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

Follow UPMC McKeesport on Facebook.

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

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

Make a Difference That Lasts a Lifetime

hen the mature adults at OASIS read and hear that school children need help, they don’t just sit back and do nothing; they jump into action! OASIS Tutors are voluntarily serving elementary schools within the Woodland Hills School District. OASIS brings together children in grades K – 4 with adults ages 50 and older to simply read. The trained volunteer tutors give the young children a sound reading foundation that OASIS feels will make a huge impact on the rest of their lives and help them to avoid the societal pitfalls that often times plague youth who grow up in underserved communities. Statistics indicate that if a child does not learn to read by the third grade, he/she is more prone to becoming a drop-out and living a life of poverty, crime, and eventual incarceration. At present, OASIS Tutors are working with children in Dickson, Edgewood, Shaffer and Wilkins Elementary Schools, in addition to Woodland Hills Academy. All the schools, with the exception of Wilkins Elementary, have requested additional tutors and have students waiting. To fill this void and accommodate their requests, OASIS is currently holding training sessions within the district. “We provide all the clearances that volunteers need for the schools and we will schedule additional training sessions as potential tutors become available,” says OASIS Manager Shirley Fisher. Fisher remarks that “although OASIS only requires a commitment of ‘One Hour, One Day, One Time a Week,’ we are requesting that tutors make a commitment to work with the same child at least twice a week. It’s called, High Impact Tutoring and research indicates that this type of tutoring truly makes the biggest difference! However, we are grateful to all the tutors who bring

their experience, energy and time to this project to meet the community needs.” To learn more about the OASIS tutoring program and volunteer opportunities, please contact Shirley Fisher, OASIS Manager, at 412.232.2023, or sfisher@oasisnet.org. OASIS is a national education organization dedicated to enriching the lives of adults age 50 and older through lifelong learning and service. OASIS brings people together to learn, lead and contribute in their communities. Pittsburgh OASIS is part of a national network that serves a diverse audience through educational centers and community partners in 27 U.S. cities. For more information, please visit www.oasisnet.org Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news

High School

Has Best Season Ever By Molly Means

n celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), the Woodland Hills High School Field Hockey Team decided to hold a “Refuse to Lose Game” versus section rival Mt. Lebanon. “After realizing how many people on our team knew somebody that had been affected by the disease, we wanted to do something to honor them, to show them that we care,” explained Molly Means, Senior Captain of the team. Three breast cancer survivors, Mrs. Jane Wolfe, Mrs. Cathy Tougher and Ms. Leisa Mason, were honored in a ceremony before the game. Each survivor was escorted onto the field by a player that she had a special connection with. The honorees were presented with pink roses and breast cancer ribbon pins. The team wore pink shirts in their honor, instead of their usual jerseys. The shirts read “Refuse to Lose” in honor of the special guests and for breast cancer survivors everywhere. The Wolverine Field Hockey Team won the game against the Blue Devils 2-1. The game was also a fundraiser for the Patti Zollner Scholarship. This scholarship is presented annually to graduating seniors in memory of Patti Zollner, a former teacher at the high school who lost her battle to breast cancer in 1999. The field hockey team made raising money for the scholarship their special project during the entire month of October. The Woodland Hills Field Hockey Team ended their season on a high note this year. They achieved the first winning season ever in school history, won the

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Woodland Hills

Section Championship and remain undefeated heading into the playoffs. This was the Wolverines first time ever starting at the number one seed position. Coached by 15-year veteran Jim Haberfield and assisted by Dave Kotts, the Wolverines had an undefeated regular season record of 13-0 overall, and 10-0 in the conference. A key win for the team was a hard-fought victory over Fox Chapel 2-1 earlier in the season. The team was led by forwards Molly Means, Dante Costa, and Tim Bagwell. Excellent goaltending was turned in all year by Jared Hanley. Adding to a solid core of players were defenders Morgan Murphy and Jordan Wadell. Autumn Porter and Kelsey Geyer also added a spark to a very capable line up of seniors and underclassmen. The team is graduating six seniors this year: Jordan Waddell, Jared Hanley, Dalal Ghanem, Tim Bagwell, Dante Costa and Molly Means. (Mr. James Sciulli also provided information for this article.)

Wolverine

Spirit

Wolverine Spirit Award for October 2011: Edgewood Elementary School students Benjamin Detorre (left) and Enrique Rodriguez (right).

Elementary Students Enjoy

Science Visitor Darryl Baynes, founder and dynamic president of the MAEA Interactive Science Programs, presented an interactive science program to each fourth grade classroom in all of the Woodland Hills elementary schools. The students discussed the world biomes and examined and observed plants and animals of each biome. The students even tested their taste buds to identify if they had a dominant bud as part of a lesson on cells and genes.Mr. Baynesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; visit was made possible by grants from The Grable Foundation and The Benedum Foundation.

Awards! Wolverine Spirit Award winners for November 2011: Fairless Elementary School students Shianne Moses and Shane Williams.

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news 2011 Homecoming Court

his year Homecoming activities were held on the weekend of October 21-22. Students celebrated Spirit Week at the High School by dressing in their favorite sports teams colors on Monday, Twin day on Tuesday, and Mixed Up day on Wednesday. Friday, the entire school attended a pep rally in the gym. Athletes from all of the fall sports teams were recognized and the Homecoming Court was introduced. Seniors were elected by their peers and included: Mariam Abdelwahab, Taylor Allen, Brittney Berkley, Micah Craig, Deandra Hunte, Kaitlyn Kearns, Hope McCullough, Tasia Miller, Radiyah Muhammad, Angela Ricci, Nia Scott, Erminia Spinelli, Shakim Alonzo, Richard Bennaugh, Michael Caprara ,Jozef Cislo, Jaimire Dutrieuille, TaJuan Dutrieuille, John Gorol, Jared Hanley, Robert Jackson, Sean Malloy, Patrick Menifee, and Jason Peterson. The King and Queen and the two runner-ups were announced at the rally as were the King and Queen faculty members, who were selected by the students as well.

Faculty King and Queen

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Woodland Hills

Hope McCullough was chosen as Queen and Michael Caprara as King. The 1st runner-ups for Queen and King were Mariam Abdelwahab and Jaimire Dutrieuille. The 2nd runnerups for Queen and King were Tasia Miller and John Gorol. The faculty Queen and King were High School teachers Kathryn Shook and Bruce Fisher. Before the Wolverines played Pine-Richland High School for the Homecoming football game, the WHHS Marching Band and Visual Images and Homecoming floats

Dignity Respect he students in Ms. Mineo’s classroom at the High School were joined by students from other rooms in the building and students from Fairless Elementary to participate in the “Dignity and Respect Videoconference” with Mr. Charlie Batch of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Also joining the students in room 129 was Woodland Hills graduate and current Pittsburgh Steeler, Mr. Ryan Mundy. After greeting Mr. Batch and Mr. Mundy with a hearty “GO STEELERS,” the students were involved in a round robin question and answer session with Mr. Batch via videoconference. Mr. Batch answered various questions regarding his experiences with “Dignity and Respect” during his lifetime. Of course he was also asked about his career as a Pittsburgh Steeler as well as other football-related questions. Some of the questions asked by our students were, “Does everyone treat you with dignity and respect?” asked by sophomore Lindsay Speelman and, “Were you ever picked on when you were younger?” asked by senior Paul Weschler. Mr. Mundy wanted to play a joke on Mr. Batch so he enlisted the help of senior Jamal Perry in asking Mr. Batch the question, “Why do you lose to Dennis Dixon when you’re shooting pool?” to which Mr. Batch had no reply causing everyone including Mr. Batch and Mr. Mundy to collapse in laughter. The students then took the “Dignity and Respect Pledge” with Mr. Batch which promises, “I will treat everyone with Dignity and Respect.” The Videoconference was part of a collaboration of 10 schools with over 2000 students in Allegheny and Beaver counties, all watching the live video stream together. The program is now available for viewing by the general public. UPMC and The Batch Foundation along with other partnering organizations worked together with the schools to make this event possible. Here is the link for viewing: http://video.magpi.net/videos/video/208/

T Homecoming King and Queen

First Runner-ups

carrying members of the court paraded through Turtle Creek. Students worked on class floats during the week and the SeniorJunior float won the best float prize. The Wolverines lost 26-7 in an upset victory to Pine-Richland. Saturday, the Homecoming Dance was held at the High School. A Homecoming bon-fire was held at the Forest Hills Recreation Center on Saturday which was open to the public.

Second Runner-ups Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Woodland Hills SCHOOL DISTRICT

news Alex Laun, WHHS Class of 2007, graduated 8th in his class

at the Naval Academy at Annapolis this year. Woodland Hills Social Studies teacher, Calvin Lewis was Alex's special guest at his commencement ceremonies. Alex will be continuing his studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts.The District congratulates Alex on his stellar achievements. Please send your information about alumni achievements and reunion information to mccoma@whsd.net for inclusion in IN Woodland Hills and for posting on the District website.

*Anniversary Woodland Hills High School’s

25th

Musical

Curtains, a new Broadway musical, celebrates putting on a show. Set in 1959 Boston, the plot revolves around a backstage murder mystery during the production of Robbin’ Hood of the Old West. A police detective with a love for musical theater is charged with saving the show, solving the case, and maybe even finding love before the curtain rises again. Performance Schedule: April 26, 27, 28, May 3, 4, & 5 – 8 p.m. April 28 & May 5 – 1 p.m. Box Office Information: All tickets are $10 412.244.1100 x5187 Sales begin March 1 Advertising Opportunities: WHMusicalAds@gmail.com 30 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Woodland Hills

Always a

Don’t miss the annual production, Dancing with Teachers which will be held on January 14, 2012 at 7 p.m. in the Woodland Hills High School auditorium. This is always a great night of entertainment and has played to a sold out crowd the last two years. So it is better to buy your tickets in advance. Ticket information will be posted on the District website, www.whsd.net, and will be advertised in the schools.

Woodland Hills School Information Woodland Hills High School Grades 9-12 2550 Greensburg Pike Pittsburgh, PA 15221-3683 412.244.1100 fax: 412.242.2344 Daniel Stephens, Principal

Woodland Hills Junior High School Grades 7-8 7600 Evans Street Pittsburgh, PA 15218 412.351.0698 fax: 412.351.4064 Dawn Golden, Principal

Dickson Elementary Grades K-6 7301 Schoyer Ave. Swissvale, PA 15218 412.731.5816 fax: 412.731.5818 Allison Kline, Principal

Fairless Elementary Grades K-6 531 Jones Ave. North Braddock, PA 15104 412.271.1317 fax: 412.271.6657 Jean Livingston, Principal

Shaffer Elementary Grades K-6 37 Garden Terrace Churchill, PA 15221 412.371.4535 fax: 412.371.4571 Dr. Deborah Vereen, Principal

Edgewood Elementary Grades K-6 241 Maple Ave. Edgewood, PA 15218 412.731.2238 fax: 412.731.2256 Janet Wilson-Carter, Principal

Wilkins Elementary Grades K-6 362 Churchill Road. Wilkins Township, PA 15235 412.824.3231 fax: 412.824.3244 Karen Bloch, Principal

Woodland Hills Academy Grades K-8 126 Monroeville Ave. Turtle Creek, PA 15145 412.824.2450 fax: 412.824.2597 Reginald Hickman, Principal

winter Library

Happenings ❋ Get involved in great programs and activities ❋ Check the library website for more program details C. C. Mellor Memorial Library Main Library, 1 Pennwood Avenue, Edgewood, 412.731.0909, www.ccmellorlibrary.org Forest Hills Branch, 444 Avenue D, Forest Hills, 412.824.3567 For Kids: Weekly Preschool Story Hours. No sign-up necessary. Mondays, 10:30 a.m. Forest Hills Library Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. at C.C. Mellor Memorial Library Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. at C.C. Mellor Memorial Library Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. at Churchill Borough Building, 2400 William Penn Hwy. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. at Wilkins Recreation Center, 111 Peffer Road North Pole Visitors Have breakfast with Mrs. Claus on Saturday, December 17, at 10:30 in the Children’s Room. Join her for pancakes and stories. Registration is limited. Call the library by December 15. Santa Claus will visit story hours on Tuesday, December 20, at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday, December 21, at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. No registration required. Both programs are in the Fred Rogers Children’s Room in Edgewood. Help Your Child in School In this workshop parents will hear about the learning styles of children. Luke Briningstoll from Sylvan Learning Center will speak on January 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the library at Edgewood on the different ways people learn and what it means as you work with your child. Registration encouraged but not required. Valentine Party Stories, treats, games and crafts will be part of a holiday party on February 11 from 1-2:30 p.m. for school age children in the Fred Rogers Children’s Room. Call the library to register. Annual Book Sale Mark your calendars for our Annual Book Sale which kicks off on Friday, March 23, with a Preview Party from 7-9:30 p.m. (No Dealers, admission fee.) Sale times are Saturday and Sunday, March 24 & 25, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Bag Sale Monday, March 26, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday, March 27, from 9 a.m. to noon. The sale is in the Ballroom of the Edgewood Community House, 1 Pennwood Avenue, Edgewood. The library is accepting donations and volunteer help.

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Heritage Community Initiatives’

4 Kids Center Provides a Solid Foundation

ike a good coat of paint, a good education depends on beginning with a properly primed foundation. “I was always one of those parents who felt no one can take care of my kids as well as I can,” said Talise Ward, who has two children in Heritage Community Initiatives’ early learning center, Heritage 4 Kids. Ward has a son in Heritage’s Pre-K Counts program and a daughter in the Head Start program. “Now my son is bringing home homework, and he wants to do it. I’m amazed. I appreciate what they are doing with my kids.” That solid foundation begins with a simple, but crucially important philosophy. “I believe passionately that every child needs to learn at his or her own speed, in his or her own way, and in a nurturing environment,” said Michele R. Atkins, president and CEO of Heritage Community Initiatives. That philosophy was sorely tested when Atkins first arrived at the Braddock nonprofit nearly two years ago. She walked into a center with walls of battleship gray and carpeting and flooring that hadn’t been replaced in years. The problems were more than a coat of paint and new carpeting could cover, however. Michele Atkins talking “Most early learning centers lose money, but when I came here to students we were bleeding money,” she recalls. “Heritage was bankrupt. We owed one vendor a million dollars. We had nine pages of audit findings [from the Pennsylvania Department of

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Woodland Hills

Education]. Now we are out of debt and we have no audit findings.” The transformation looks as remarkable as it sounds. Step through the front doors of the center and you will be greeted with smiles from staff, and brightly colored walls that complement the maritime theme of each classroom. “The Hillman Foundation first gave us a grant for a planning study which allowed us to think thoughtfully about what to do,” Atkins said. “Room size is critically important for an early learning center. The Hillman grant allowed us to reconfigure rooms for best efficiency.” At a recent open house for the center, Atkins credits the Heritage board and staff with doing amazing work in the past two years, work that was matched, at times, by outside vendors. “To accommodate our need to keep the Center open, Massaro Corporation did the renovation on weekends and evenings, and they finished the project on time and on budget,” she said. There has also been support from local foundations. The Grable Foundation provided funding for a literacy program and then a program for first steps in math and science. The Massey Charitable Trusts provided funding for scholarships, as did Heritage Board Chair Stanley Herman, PhD. In addition, board member George Handelsman, Esq., provided funding to construct a comfort room, where children who are having a

Carlow students weeding at the library in Braddock

bad day or transition can receive a little one-on-one care. “PNC Foundation made a commitment to match the Grable Foundation’s funding,” said Atkins. “And we have an anonymous individual who provided the remainder of the funding. The total funding for this program is $100,000 per year for two years.” Mary Ellen Sullivan, a vice president with PNC, presented a check for $50,000 to Atkins at the open house. “I just can’t say enough about the gem that is 4 Kids,” said Sullivan. “PNC is so proud to be a partner.” Community partners have also played an important part in Heritage’s success. Carlow University sent almost 60 of its students to Heritage in September for Mercy Service Day, where the students helped with filing, general cleanup, and, yes, painting. “I felt like we really accomplished something,” said Rachel Hill, a first-year student from Cleveland, Ohio. “I had never painted before, so it was something new for me.” It was also a new experience for Hill to visit an area like Braddock, where buildings with boarded up windows give testimony to the depressed state the town has been in for decades. “I thought it was amazing that they are trying to revive this town,” she said. “I was very exhausted when we were finished, but I felt good. And it made me feel really great when Miles [Loewy, the volunteer manager for Heritage] complimented us for doing a really good job of painting. Everyone was very thankful that we were there.” Atkins, a Carlow alumna herself, has appreciated the support from her alma mater. Martha Ezzell, PhD, a Carlow professor emeritus, is a Heritage board member, as is Giant Eagle’s Jackie Dixon, who also is a trustee at Carlow. In addition, Heritage staff members Becky Flaherty, the director of development, Roy Aguiar, the director of programs, Amanda Gee, the development assistant, and Deanna Dugan, the math and science coach, are all Carlow alumni. As it seeks to transform its community, Heritage focuses on three primary areas: transportation for people looking to get to work, job training, education and other vital services; job training that prepares unemployed or under-employed people to work in sustainable jobs; and education. It’s this last area where Atkins has a special affinity.

Carlow student E. DiSanti painting

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Do You “Leak” With Physical Activity, Coughing, or Sneezing? re you embarrassed to go out on the town with your friends? Do you need to run to the bathroom every twenty minutes? Do you ‘leak’ with physical activity, coughing or sneezing? Urinary incontinence can be embarrassing and may put a damper on your social life. While many individuals and even many physicians don’t automatically think of physical therapy for problems associated with the “pelvic floor”, there is great evidence for success for both male and female patients. In most cases, you can stay dry without surgery or medication. Specialized physical therapy may be the best option to maintain your quality of life! Women’s Health specialists are physical therapists with training which will benefit women and men with a variety of medical conditions. These thought-to-be taboo topics are often left behind closed doors and many individuals have lived through suffering and embarrassment from these issues for years. Women’s Health physical therapy entails evaluation and treatment of multiple conditions including pelvic floor dysfunction, osteoporosis, and lymphedema associated with various cancers. Specialists in this field are seeing great success in treating this sometimes overlooked patient population, both male and female. We are even finding that pain in the low back, abdomen or thighs, may be related to weakness of the pelvic floor! Don’t settle for thinking that some urinary leakage is normal for you because you have had prostate surgery, have gone through childbirth or are simply “getting older”. Leakage is NEVER normal, and you don’t have to silently “live with it”.

You might need a physical therapist, if . . . ❋ You have pelvic pain with toileting activities, sexual intercourse or specific movements. ❋ You experience leakage with sneezing, coughing, or physical activity. ❋ You can’t make it to the bathroom in time. ❋ You think some leaking is normal after childbirth or with aging. ❋ You have undergone prostate surgery or gynecological procedure. ❋ You have been told you have pelvic organ prolapse. Hopefully, if you mention urinary or fecal incontinence or pelvic pain to your doctor, he or she will think FIRST to send you to a Women’s Health physical therapist. But if they don’t, make the call yourself. If you have any symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, you can choose to go directly to a physical therapy. You can prevent prolonged waiting periods to start treatment and may also save healthcare dollars. Let an expert in this field perform an evaluation, and take it from there. Initial evaluation and treatment may include medical history, external and internal examination, biofeedback, and manual therapy. Many patients 34 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Woodland Hills

can be managed via home program, and only infrequent follow up visits may be needed to achieve results. Don’t let incontinence put a damper on your social life. You don’t need to wear diapers, have surgery, or take medication to stop the leaks. Faucets may leak, people should not! You might need one of the specialists at Allegheny Chesapeake Physical Therapy. Allegheny Chesapeake Physical Therapy is a privately owned practice, with three Pittsburgh locations. All therapists hold doctorates of physical therapy and practice using the latest research techniques. ACPT has experts in musculoskeletal disorders and lymphedema management. Now, they have added pelvic floor rehab to their areas of expertise! For more information visit www.AlleghenyChesapeake.com or call 1-800-NEW-SELF.

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Rankin Christian Center

For A Bright Future by Elissa Emmerling

❋R

ev. Paul Sandusky knows what it’s like to make a positive impact on a community. As the executive director of the Rankin Christian Center, he, his staff and volunteers have been trying to touch lives in order to enact change for the better. “Our goals are to positively influence the negative impact of the borough, provide a safe haven of growth for our youth, and promote harmony among the generations,” said Sandusky. The Rankin Christian Center is a nonprofit American Baptist organization located in Mon Valley which is just east of Pittsburgh. According to Sandusky, RCC’s ministry is to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged individuals. He said the staff reach out to all people. However, their main focus has become youth and seniors. The center focuses on “touching lives” of those facing adversity in the Mon Valley area and meeting their needs through a “strength-based approach.” The Rankin Christian Center sits in the heart of one of the most “economically depressed” and needy areas in Allegheny County. It responds to these needs by reaching out to disadvantaged people of all faiths, genders, ages, and ethnicities, but has come to focus on youth and seniors. RCC is affiliated with the religious denomination of the American Baptists, not to be confused with the Southern Baptists. They were adopted by the General Board of the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. in June 1998. The Rankin Christian Center started out in 1904 as a Baptist Ministry. “It was originally designed as an outreach to teach European immigrants who worked in the steel mills the English language,” Sandusky said. “It was designed to help them learn our language, but when the U.S. demographics changed to African American, particularly in the borough of Rankin, the Rankin Christian Center began to help disadvantaged individuals both intellectually and economically.” In 1922, American Baptist Churches constructed the current building and for many years, missionaries worked and lived there. The center has always seen itself as part of the community and has changed to fit the needs of the area. Sandusky said that the Rankin Christian Center has 60 full-time employees and 18 part time employees. He said there are six regular volunteers and many seniors who will help out when needed. Sandusky is confident that the center has plenty of workers along with volunteers to operate

the facility. He did say, however, that it needs more help with funding their programs and there are two ways people can help support the center. “People can donate through United Way Donor Choice 92 or send gift cards,” he explained. “We can use gift cards from places such as Walmart or Kmart to buy food to help provide meals for our disadvantaged youth and seniors.” The Reverend reported that the Rankin Christian Center helps 5,800 people a year, perhaps a shocking number for those unaware of this nonprofit. Rankin Christian Center has various programs throughout the year to help the disadvantaged members of the Mon Valley community, and “impact lives today for a brighter tomorrow.” According to Sandusky, the two most successful programs are Mon Valley Supports Coordination which “locates, coordinates and monitors support services for people diagnosed with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The program advocates for an individual's social, health, safety and emotional needs while assisting the individual and his or her family in navigating the social service system.” Rankin Christian’s after school program which helps children and youth ages 4-18 is another successful outreach at the center. The Rankin Christian Center has become a safe haven for disadvantaged individuals in the Mon Valley area. It has surely benefited many over the years, specifically youth and seniors who are in need of a place of comfort. Since 1904, this nonprofit has been a light to the community and hope for a bright future. For more information go to www.rankinchristiancenter.org, or call 412.271.8313. You can also email the center at: rcc@rankinchristiancenter.org.

❋ Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Open Your Heart to a Senior Program

hen Joann Stack needs a ride to the store or elsewhere, she’s got a group of helping hands at her service, thanks to a new initiative geared toward keeping seniors living in their homes as long as they are able. Stack, 86 had a nice outing recently with Kathy, one of the Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteers. She took Stack shopping and Stack returned the favor, buying lunch for the two of them. “It was very enjoyable,” said Stack. “The volunteers are very lovely people, very enjoyable.” The Open Your Heart to A Senior program is made possible through funding from the United Way of Allegheny County. “ We are trying to connect seniors with their neighbors,” stated Rachel Steigerwalt Coordinator of Older Adults for Family Services of Western Pennsylvania. “We like the idea of having residents in every community helping out those who are the most vulnerable and need assistance with things like shoveling snow, getting to the doctors or the grocery store.” The Open Your Heart to A Senior initiative is designed to help recruit more volunteers,” Steigerwalt said. “The idea is to let the community know there are seniors who need a ride to the grocery store or to the doctor’s office, or a visit or a friendly call.” Those interested in volunteering to help a senior in need are welcome to join the effort. Training is provided and even if you only have an hour to give, most seniors would welcome your visit! “The nice part about this volunteer program is that everyone can get involved, including families with children. The sight and sounds of children brings a smile to every seniors face,” says Steigerwalt. For more information about the program, please visit their website www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or contact Nancy Jones at 412.307.0071 or email seniors@nhco.org. 36 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Woodland Hills

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

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Each community in Woodland Hills School District has its own, unique earned income tax code. or as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they have sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard. This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculate approximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check to your local earned income tax collector in your community municipal building. But in 2012, every taxpayer in Woodland Hills School District can cross one more chore off their to-do list thanks to a new state mandate. Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in the commonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold all earned income taxes from every employee. And all employees have to do is make sure they have filled out a residency certification form. “The legislation affects every single municipality and school district in Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoffman, local government policy manager at the state Department of Community and Economic Development. “That in itself is huge. In addition, it also affects every single taxpayer and every single business that operates in Pennsylvania.”

In the Beginning Earned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania since 1965. At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow local entities such as school districts and municipalities to raise more funds. “It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a tax to help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposed on people who actually had earned income, not those who were retired or were not working,” says Hoffman. Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania. Neighboring states have a similar structures in place, but they are not identical.

In theory, the tax is simple. Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1 percent tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs and school districts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower. And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the tax from an employee’s pay or the employees themselves could calculate their tax and send it to their local earned income tax collector. But from the start, issues arose. Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local municipalities in the country, and at one point, there were up to 560 different earned income tax offices in the state, says Hoffman. “It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was no consistency in collections, no consistency in annual returns and no consistency in transfer of records from one tax collector to another.” “Many of these companies did withhold the tax, but with so many different collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all the expectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure also was not attractive to new business endeavors as it created one more regulation interested companies had to comply with when they opened a site in Pennsylvania. Within decades, people started to question the structure used to collect earned income tax. A New Way By 2002, various organizations sought change and restructuring. Their pleas were supported by a study commissioned by the Pennsylvania Economy League among other entities. The study found that millions of dollars across the state were not being accounted for correctly and millions of potential tax dollars were not being collected at all. The actual amount always remained uncertain, says Hoffman. Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act 32 and its effects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities and school districts three years to implement its regulations. Under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted from employees to their employers. Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employee fill out a one page local earned income tax residency certification form by year’s end. On the form, employees list their address, municipality and county of residence. This information matches to a municipality specific code ensuring the tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at the correct tax collector. Throughout Pennsylvania, except in Allegheny County, earned income tax collector positions were eliminated or altered as taxes will go to a county level tax collector chosen by a tax collection district made up of representatives from every municipality and school district in the specific county. In Allegheny County, four collection districts were chosen to better serve the area’s unique demographics, says Hoffman. “The four collection districts are separated by the rivers. Allegheny County is different than anywhere else in the state due to its diverse populations and number of corporations.” Going Forward In addition to the more centralized structure, the law has other oversight and accountability features. There are explicit time frames set out for the distribution of dollars as well as training and certification for all tax officers. There also are penalties for late payments and annual auditing, says Hoffman. “All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies being collected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributed properly.” Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state. “Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some had none at all. Now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvania and all the tax collectors are required to use it. We now have consistency.”

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Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. It would seem reasonable that with millions of sperm and only one egg that the majority of infertility problems would lie with the female. Not true, according to the National Library of Medicine which tracks national statistics kept by fertility clinics. Difficulties with fertility are evenly split, with the source of fertility problems being linked to the male one third of the time and the female also having difficulties one third of the time. The final third is a mixture of situations where both parties have infertility issues and those cases where the cause is indeterminate. The good news is that there is hope for males who wish to start a family. Director of Male Reproductive Medicine Surgery at UPMC, Thomas Jaffe, MD, an urologist, offers a hopeful perspective for males experiencing difficulties with reproductive issues. “Because of many technologies and treatments, many men who previously had no hope of fathering a child now have treatment options that can be [effective.]” One important advancement in reproductive research is a relatively new diagnostic test called the DAZ test. The DAZ test detects a genetic mutation in the Y chromosome for sperm production.

This test is ordered when sperm production is unusually low. Another important factor in analyzing the quality of the sperm is its motility or movement. Generally, sperm with greater motility are able to more easily fertilize an egg. One common problem among men with fertility issues is type 1 or juvenile onset diabetes. Individuals with diabetes may experience what’s called retrograde ejaculation. Simply put, this is when the bladder stays open with ejaculatory fluids washing back into the bladder rather than exiting the body as with normal functioning. “This problem can be treated with Sudafed which helps the bladder to stay closed during ejaculation,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Retrograde ejaculation can also be a problem with spinal cord injuries, nerve damage or certain medications that contain alpha blockers such as high blood pressure medications. Another problem Dr. Jaffe sees among his patients are men who have little to no sperm production. “Even with no sperm, we have found that these men still produce limited numbers of sperm within the tissues of the testicles.” This sperm can be extracted from the tissue and remains viable to fertilize an egg.

One of the most common problems associated with male infertility is when an enlargement of a vein in the scrotum forms. These veins are specially equipped with one-way valves which insure that blood flows upward. When these veins become compressed, they crush the gonadal vein and heat and toxins build up in the scrotum inhibiting healthy sperm production. The vein can be surgically repaired however to promote normal function with increased sperm production and better quality with sperm motility increased. Finally, male cancer patients may experience fertility problems due to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “Ideally ,we [harvest] sperm prior to treatment. We work with the Pittsburgh Cryobank to store the sperm until needed,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Although no treatment is an absolute guarantee, male infertility can often times be overcome with the right evaluation and treatment. For more information about Dr. Jaffe and treatment of male infertility, call 412.692.4100.

Woodland Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

Holiday

Gift Giving Ideas

For Seniors

erplexed about what to give the senior in your life this holiday season? Keep in mind that as we age, our needs change. And a gift that might have been wonderful a few a few years ago may no longer be appropriate today. Recent changes in the economy have resulted in many seniors trimming their budgets and eliminating small luxury items they can live without. Today, many seniors have to make a choice between necessary medications and non-essential needs. Families can help by considering gifts that cover the cost of these everyday needs. Some of these gift giving ideas include:

With all of the hustle and bustle this holiday season, make time to reach out to your elderly friends, family members and neighbors. Take the time to care. You just might find that the gift you give, may also be one of the greatest gifts you receive. Happy Holidays!!

Looking for a way to spend quality time with your loved one this holiday season? Visit Juniper Village at Forest Hills’ 3rd Annual Celebration of Trees Holiday Display! Tour over 29 different Christmas trees decorated in a variety of themes by local businesses. The display is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily. Juniper Village is located Stock their pantry: Visit the local grocery store and stock their just off of Ardmore Boulevard at 107 Fall Run Road in Forest Hills. pantry with staples such as canned goods, frozen foods and For more information or driving directions call 412.244.9901. non-perishable food or toiletry items that they can enjoy during the upcoming winter months. Pre-pay their monthly bills: Consider pre-paying your loved one’s monthly gas, electric or cable television bills. Purchase a newspaper subscription: Some of your senior loved one's fondest memories revolve around life at the dinner table and discussing the day's events. A subscription to a daily local newspaper can continue that tradition and help them keep in touch with their local community. Pre-pay or purchase gift cards for small luxury items: Luxury items such as weekly hair appointments, dinner at their favorite restaurant or a trip to the movies, theatre and / or concert mean a lot to loved ones no longer able to afford them. Create A Calendar: Create a calendar with activities that are going on in your family's life so your senior can feel a part of them. Calendars also help your loved one remember important dates that they sometimes forget like kid’s birthdays and graduations. Check online; there are many resources for personalizing calendars with family photos. Purchase A Supply of All Occasion Cards: As we get older health ailments and bad weather often keep us from getting out to the store. A box of all occasion cards and stationary allows your senior to keep in touch with loved ones throughout the year. Make it even easier and include a few rolls of stamps! Many seniors, including those living at home and in long term care communities, experience loneliness. Whether it be because loved ones are gone, family members live out of town, or families are just too busy to spend time with them. Feelings of loneliness and isolation are one of the most difficult needs to meet. 40 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Woodland Hills

COMMUNITY WORSHIP All Saints Anglican Episcopal Church 412.793.0270

Hebron United Presbyterian Church 412.371.2307

Beulah Presbyterian Church 412.242.4570

Hope Lutheran Church of Forest Hills 412.242.4476

Calvary United Church of Christ 412.823.4347

Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.271.1995

Christ Lutheran Church and School 412.271.7173

Laketon Heights United Methodist 412.241.9170

Electric Heights United Methodist Church 412.824.3303

Liberty Baptist Church 412.271.3775

Emmanuel Lutheran Church 412.824.4525 Epiphany Lutheran Church 412.241.1313

Living Spirit Ministry 412.351.1802 Madonna del Castello Church 412.271.5666

Penn Hills Baptist Church 412.793.6640 Penn Hills Free Methodist Church 412.793.7263 Pittsburgh Mennonite Church 2018 S. Braddock Ave. Swissvale, Pa 15218 Presbyterian Church of America 412.793.7117 Presentation of Christ Greek Orthodox Church 412.824.9188 Protestant Reformed Fellowship 412.371.2299 Resurrection Baptist Church 412.271.7355

Faith Bible Baptist Church 412.825.7450

McMasters United Methodist Church 412.823.1988

Sri Venkateswara Temple 412.373.3380

First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood 412.241.4613

Mount Hope Community Church 412.793.0227

SS. Peter & Paul Byzantine Church 412.466.3578

First Christian Church of Turtle Creek 412.823.2582

Mount Olive Baptist Church 412.271.0303

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church 412.242.3374

Forest Hills Community Bible Church 412.371.1611 Forest Hills Presbyterian Church 412.241.1647 Good Shepherd Catholic Parish 412.271.1515 Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.793.1394

Mount Olive Church of God in Christ 412.361.0503

St. Colman Catholic Church 412.283.2564

Muhleman Memorial Methodist Church 412.823.5170

St. James Episcopal Church 412.242.2300

New Hope Baptist Church 412.271.8998

St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church 412.824.0246

New Vision Community Church 412.241.6160

St. John Fisher 412.241.4722

Parkway Jewish Center 412.823.4338

St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church 412.824.1622

St. Maurice Roman Catholic Church 412.271.0809 St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.271.9300 Trinity Tower United Methodist 412.793.9000 Universal United Presbyterian Church 412.793.1355 Word of God Catholic Church 412.241.1372 Word & Worship Church 412.824.1616 Zion Lutheran Church 412.242.2626

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