IN Woodland Hills by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2010

oodland Hills

The

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Season ALSO INSIDE: Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions Leviâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Good for the Braddock Community Plus: Woodland Hills School District Newsletter

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Contents Woodland Hills | WINTER 2010 |

12/13/10 11:18 AM Page 1

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

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

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

What’s Inside

Publisher’s Message COMMUNITY INTEREST

The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4

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

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

32 17

page 2

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

Meet Our Physicians

Woodland Hills School District Superintendent’s Message | 8

Support the Braddock Carnegie Library UPMC Today

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 17 FEATURES

Want to List Your Home?

January is a great month to do it | 3

Cardio Exercise

Keeping the most important muscle fit | 4

Older Adults in Woodland Hills

| Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation | INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Community Hearing

Rechargable Hear Aid Batteries | 35

Juniper Village

Communicating with your Elderly Parents | 39

ON THE COVER

The windows of First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood.

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it. IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

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

Wayne Dollard Publisher As the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of Woodland Hills. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don’t forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Woodland Hills community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope your holiday will be filled with a good dose of of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’re surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.

IN Woodland Hills is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Woodland Hills School District and its municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER

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

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

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

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

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

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

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

Spring content deadline:1/21 Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor 2 724.942.0940 to advertise

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REAL ESTATE

IN Woodland Hills

Want to List your home?

January is the perfect month to do it!

Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after that some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a foot the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with the of snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in the return of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on winter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny. listing your home. “During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst. January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should make said Lori Crandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker. those photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yard “January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning looks good in the winter, it’s going to of the spring market,” she said. look good in the spring, but if we have “Especially after football season is over, people get bored and It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back who can’t start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to list not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out in the spring shoot for January that your house will start getting online attention. pictures of the yard in other seasons.” or early February because Other things that the winter you’ll get a leg up on the spring provides advantages for include market before it gets saturated.” an opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foot the home heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address. traffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing. “There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air “The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really important is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a home that sellers go online themselves and look at the differences between warranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warranty brokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popular and can get that rectified before it gets too hot.” website for consumers.”

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♥ cardi exercisesKeeping the Most Important Muscle Fit W

hen it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through the hype and advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio machine or workout. However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said Dan Griffin, general manager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, who is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, said people are becoming more educated when it comes to their cardio workout. “People understand you do not have to do long, slow distance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showing now that low-intensity heart maintenance levels are just as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the kind of exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’t recite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffin said. “The higher heart levels have a whole different physiological response and work on different parts of your body. Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those 30-40 minutes you usually dedicate to your workout and break it up.”

“...the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads...”

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

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

ost childhood Christmas memories are of joyful occasions with precious family-bonding moments: mom and dad singing Christmas carols; children with happy, angelic faces gazing up at them in tranquil adoration. My own memories are also quite happy. But after comparing notes, I have slowly come to realize that my entire family is quite possibly out of their spruce tree. So, for an inside look at how a dysfunctional family spends its Christmas, please read on… Immediately after Thanksgiving, a disturbing lunar phase would always begin at our house. My otherwise fairly normal, career-oriented mother would begin to clean our house in anticipation of my grandparents’ arrival for Christmas. Not the normal tidying up one might do for a family visit. No, this was more like a murder had been committed at our house and my mother’s cleaning was the frantic attempts of the killer to remove every shred of DNA evidence. My mother would methodically begin to disinfect every object in our house, including the dogs. Not even my toys, which were thoroughly soaked in bleach, were spared, resulting in my Malibu Barbie turning into a white-haired old lady in need of a sunbed. I have never been sure why my mother was so intimidated by her mother-in-law, but she apparently lived in fear that the frail, gray-haired woman would somehow drag a stepladder into the kitchen and, risking hip fracture, stand on the top rung to inspect for dust above the cabinets. My father’s style of celebrating the holidays was the polar opposite of a Brady Bunch Christmas. Less than enthused about stimulating the economy through gift-giving, he wasn’t terribly fond of the Christmas tree either. So in their new house, he ingeniously designed a special closet where a fully decorated Christmas tree on rollers could be wheeled out Dec. 1 and neatly rolled back into the closet on Dec. 26. Surely, he must be at least partially responsible for my quirky and oftentimes odd behavior. December 18 my grandparents would arrive. My grandfather would wheel into the driveway, screeching tires, and jump out of their Buick proudly announcing, “Made it in 6 hours and 15 minutes,” the goal being to shave minutes off of last year’s time. My grandmother, still whitelipped from the G-forces, would peel herself off the car seat and wobble in, complaining that my grandfather had driven 85 mph all the way. 61 724.942.0940 toADVERTISE advertise | 724.942.0940 TO

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On Christmas Day, my mother, who does not cook but is highly skilled at thawing and microwaving, morphed into Betty Crocker, attempting such complex dishes as green-beancasserole and congealed salad. Unfortunately with the pressure of the day, she would usually charcoalize the green-bean casserole. (I’m not sure if charcoalize is a word, but I really like it.) One holiday, my thoughtful grandfather shocked the entire village by crossing gender lines and washing dishes. Unfortunately, while dishwashing, his dentures flew into the garbage disposal as if sucked out of his mouth by an unseen evil force. He quickly turned off the disposal and pulled out a set of mangled dentures. Silently, he turned the switch back on and threw the dentures back into the garbage disposal. I miss him. Maybe we are all a little dysfunctional in one way or another. With the holidays, it’s easy for anyone to get a little neurotic. So, in between cursing the bakery for selling the last Boston crème pie and that mad dash for the last parking space at the mall, just keep saying under your breath, “Peace. And on earth, good will toward mankind.” Happy holidays.

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S UPERINTENDENT ’ S M ESSAGE

RAISING STANDARDS Dear Members of the Woodland Hills School District Community,

2010 WHSD BOARD DIRECTORS: (Back Row) R. Clanagan, R. Rinsma, Vice-President R. Driscoll, F. Kuhn (Front Row) President M. Messina, B. Estocin, R. Tomasic, C. Filiak (Missing from picture) Dr. Randy Lott All material has been prepared and written by Maria McCool, Director of Communications for the WHSD. 8

Woodland Hills

At the beginning of the school year, I issued a challenge to our District principals and teachers. Come up with a plan to raise standards in each of our schools and lower the failure rate for our students. Then put that plan into action. I’m happy to report that those plans are being implemented in each and every school in the Woodland Hills School District. And preliminary test scores show that changes we have made in our schools to focus on reading and math instruction at every level are producing results. I promised that every child that attends a Woodland Hills school would be given a quality education. And we have made good on that guarantee. But each student who graduates from Woodland Hills has to “earn” his or her diploma. They have to “earn” their grades. Our students have to do the hard work of showing up every day for school. They have to be prepared and participate in class. They have to complete their home work and class assignments. And they have to study, study, study. We don’t give our students good marks, they earn them with their own hard work. Woodland Hills is known as a CHAMPION on and off the playing fields. Yes, we field championship teams and produce award winning athletes. But we also produce prize-winning musical productions and honored musicians. We produce National Merit Scholars. We compete on the local, state and even national level, in many extra-curricular competitions and activities. And our students bring home awards, recognition, and honor; to themselves and to our District. Now is the time to up our game in the classroom. And our teachers and school administrative teams have risen to the challenge. We have changed student eligibility for athletics and extra-curricular activities. We raised the standard.

Participation in athletics and extra-curricular activities is a privilege. Academic work and excellence is our students’ first and foremost priority. I proposed when I came to Woodland Hills that our students maintain a 2.0 grade average to be eligible to participate in any activities outside the classroom. We also require that our students’ behavior conforms with our rules governing conduct. And those rules are in compliance with the State Board of Education, the P.I.A.A., and the W.P.I.A.L. Our mission to raise our standards is aimed at our students’ post-high school careers, whether they are planning on college or entering the work force immediately. We intend that Woodland Hills’ graduates will have the lowest remediation rate for Allegheny County when they begin their post-secondary educations. We want to ensure that our graduates will compete successfully in the outside world. We do not do our students any favors by lessening our standards or “giving” them good grades. We didn’t get five WPIAL championships by playing easy schedules and weaker teams. Woodland Hills is recognized nationally as the ONLY high school in the nation that has six active players in the NFL at the same time. We also want to be recognized as having the most students in first tier colleges. We want to continually best our record for scholarships awarded. We want our students to be academic champions and rise to the highest levels in science, the arts, business, government, wherever their dreams take them. The ancient Greek definition of happiness was the full use of your powers along the lines of excellence. By raising our academic standards and lowering our failures, we not only empower our students, we give them the tools to shape their happiness. Sincerely,

Walter M. Calinger, Ph.D. Superintendent

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Teaching Smarter Every public school district is exploring ways to be more cost-effective. On- line learning is one way in which private and public schools are coming to grips with providing quality instruction to students with varying abilities and challenges. The Woodland Hills School District is investing in innovative web-based curriculum tools as another resource for our teachers and our students. We are currently implementing two new programs: the A+ AnyWhere Learning System and Achieve 3000 Differentiated Literacy Solutions for students in grades 7-12. With these programs, teachers will have the ability to use digital material within their classroom instruction so they can customize their teaching to students who are at varying levels of comprehension. Another advantage to this digital curriculum is that the content is aligned with Pennsylvania Standards and can be used in both traditional and nontraditional classrooms. In the Woodland Hills School District, any use of a digital curriculum is aligned with traditional classroom content and does not stand alone as a course of study. Students working on-line are assigned to a District accredited teacher who is the teacher of record. Our teachers are certified in the area of study and evaluate the student’s work for a final grade. The teacher of record is also responsible for transcript and reporting requirements. District Administrator Jennifer Rodgers explains why these new programs are so beneficial for our students. “We are very excited that new technological tools are helping our teachers reach more students by allowing them to adapt instruction to the uniqueness of individual learning styles. These systems can be used for both virtual and “brick and mortar” style classrooms.” The new digital curriculum also provides real-time student assessments that allow for teachers and administrators to help students individually in subject areas where they need more help. “The versatility of the new systems is cost-effective and will save tax dollars in their multi-use potential,” added Ms. Rodgers. On-line use of digital curriculum is an option that is available to all students as an aide to complete the requirements of a defined course in the District Course Selection Book.

In addition to the software programs already mentioned, WHSD students have other programs available for their use such as: Skills Tutor, The Standards Aligned System, Rosetta Stone, and Success Maker. With the use of these on-line resources, school is virtually open 24/7.

Junior High Students Embrace New Technology To build background knowledge and to increase comprehension of the story, “Being Japanese American,” 8th grade advanced reading / language arts students in Ms. Susan James’ class researched Japanese internment camps. Following this activity, the study groups designed and produced presentations using state-of-the-art prezis. Prezi is a web-based presentation application and storytelling tool. It is unlike a Power Point presentation in that it uses a single canvas instead of traditional slides. Students learned how to create a path through different objects and frames to represent the order in which the information is to be presented. Invited guests and students observed each study group present their prezi on a Promethean Board to the class. From this experience the students made connections between what they had researched and the author’s own personal experience as told in the narrative. The prezi afforded these eighth graders the opportunity to showcase their new knowledge of Japanese American history, prezi presentations, and Promethean Board technology.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Distinguished Educators Share Their Expertise with the District The Woodland Hills School District welcomes two new Distinguished Educators from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Dr. Elaine Brown and Dr. Frederick Smeigh. Both of these professionals have been acknowledged in the field of education for their achievements. We are very pleased and proud to have them working with our administrators and teachers this school year. Meet Dr. Elaine M. Brown. She began her career in education as an elementary teacher in the Moon Area School District. She earned her B. S. from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and her Master of Education from Duquesne University. Dr. Brown further trained as a school psychologist at Duquesne University and then served in that position for five years within the Karns City Area School District. Her principal and superintendent letter of eligibility certifications were earned at Westminster College. She served the Moon Area School District as the Director of Personnel and Pupil Services and as Assistant Superintendent in charge of pupil services for a total of 12 years. Her doctorate in educational leadership degree was earned from Duquesne University, where her dissertation focused on professional development. Dr. Brown’s most recent past positions have been in the Carlynton and South Allegheny School Districts where she served as Superintendent for 8 years. Dr. Brown consults as a resource for leaders in school districts emphasizing continual striving to achieve academic excellence. Dr. Brown’s accomplishments include recognizing existing staff’s strengths and potential and having a vision for her organization. She realigned employees in various departments by reallocating existing resources. By serving all students’ needs in a responsible way, Dr. Brown was able to create program options and improve instructional areas that were out of compliance with state and federal regulations, especially in special education In three districts, under Dr. Brown’s leadership, an in-house alternative education program was developed to enroll students who typically dropped out of school and did not complete their education. Another area where Dr. Brown made an impact was in the area of early childhood education; by converting half-day kindergarten programs to full-day kindergarten programs in two school districts, students received stronger academically oriented programs. This enabled at-risk students to receive opportunities for instruction that they may not have gotten at home. Another major accomplishment of Dr. Brown was to bring a district into the twenty-first century technology-wise. After a thorough assessment of district needs, a strategic plan that provided the district with a mission and vision for technology was developed. A diverse group of community stakeholders were engaged to research and make recommendations to the board of education before any significant technology investment was adopted. Dr. Brown’s accomplishments always considered two questions: 1) Is it good for students? And 2) Is it fiscally responsible for the community?

Meet Dr. Frederick Smeigh. He has worked as a Distinguished Educator for the Pennsylvania Department of Education since August 2005 helping school districts to improve student achievement. Dr. Smeigh retired in 2005 as Superintendent of the Frazier School District and as Adjunct Associate Professor of Education in the graduate program at Saint Francis University where he taught Educational Statistics, Research Methodology, Foundations of Education, and School Law. He received a B. S. from Clarion University, an M.A. from Indiana University; Principal and Superintendent Certification from the Pennsylvania State University; and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Smeigh had thirty two years of experience as a central office administrator serving as superintendent for 15 years at Frazier. He also served as an assistant superintendent for secondary education and as a secondary principal in the Altoona Area School District. Dr. Smeigh received the 1998 Distinguished Educator Award for Exceptional Leadership for public school or university staff, presented annually by the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Education Study Council. In addition, he was also selected by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in October, 2004 as one of the Top 48 individuals making a significant impact on education in public schools, colleges or universities in Western Pennsylvania. This selection was for “turning around a low-achieving, financially troubled district, reversing it financially and making it into one of the state’s highest-achieving districts, with an above-average number of low-income children.” Dr. Smeigh was recommended by the Council of Chief State School Officers to be the keynote speaker for the New Hampshire Department of Education at their 2005 institute for state school districts dealing with improving low-achieving school districts. He also served on the PDE advisory committee for PSSA and on the state work group for PVAAS. During Dr. Smeigh’s tenure as Superintendent, Frazier was selected as a National Model School District three times by the International Center for Leadership in Education and the Council of Chief State School Officers. Dr. Smeigh presented at Model School Conferences throughout the United States. Frazier was also selected as the “largest overachiever” school district in southwestern Pennsylvania by the Pittsburgh Business Times in 2005 and 2006 based on three consecutive years of PSSA scores and the district’s percent of low income students. Standard and Poor’s in 2005/2006 identified Frazier as “one of 29 outperforming schools districts on combined reading and math PSSA scores (out of 501 Pennsylvania school districts) for four consecutive years (2002-2005). Frazier’s Educational Technology Program was used as an example of effective instructional use of computers for students by the Carnegie-Mellon University’s John Heinz School of Management.

After reading their many achievements and diverse experiences, it is apparent that both Dr. Brown and Dr. Smeigh are perfectly matched to our District’s needs and goals. 10 10 IN Woodland WoodlandHills Hills

Mosaics Brighten District and Community Sites Ms. Amick and her students also received help from HS teacher If you have driven by the intersection Mr. Matt Rodrigues and students from his leadership class to install of Ardmore and Yost Boulevards in the Mosaic Designer Boards. Presently, students are working on Forest Hills and looked up at the another mosaic installation for the new electronic marquee that sits retaining wall, you may have caught at the entrance to the High School on Greensburg Pike. a glimpse of a new Mosaic Designer During the past year, Amick visited all of the Borough Council Board with the WHSD Wolverine logo. This work of art was Meetings in Woodland Hills and offered a mosaic mural for designed collaboratively and created by several WHHS students installation at a location of the Borough’s under the guidance of art choosing. The Forest Hills mural has been teacher Barb Amick. installed, and in the spring or summer Students worked through the another mosaic is expected to be installed summer on different mosaic in North Braddock. Braddock Hills and pieces and their handiwork has Chalfant municipalities have also showed been installed in several District interest in having a mosaic. sites: the front entrance of the If you would like to know more about High School; the Wolvarena; this mosaic project, you can contact Wilkins Primary, and the Ms. Amick at the HS by emailing her Junior High. at amicba@whsd.net, or leaving her a Ms. Amick says that several This mosaic has been installed in Forest Hills at the intersection of Ardmore and Yost Boulevards. Plans are being made to install a similar version of this mural in message at 412-244-1100. of her students deserve special North Braddock in the spring. commendation for their commitment to this beautification project. “Maggie Baker and Jacqueline Zollner worked with me from the last week of June to the first week of August, Monday through Friday from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm every day to create these works of art. They were fabulous to work with and they really put in a lot of hours. They treated this project like it was a full time job for them,” said Amick. “A few other District volunteers also helped by giving some hours to the project, but the real credit goes to Jacqueline and Maggie. They were my die hard troupers,” summed up Amick. “I also would like to credit Josh Doose who went with me to Youghiogheny Glass Company to pick up glass at the beginning of the project.” WHHS students Maggie Baker and Jacqueline Zollner pose with the Wolverine mosaic at the entrance of the High School.

Mural at Junior High.

2010-11 7th/8th GRADE BOYS’ BASKETBALL Jan. 07 Jan. 11 Jan. 14 Jan. 18 Jan. 21 Jan. 25 Feb. 01 Feb. 04 Feb. 08 Feb. 11 Feb. 15 Feb. 17

*Plum-O’Block *McKeesport *Franklin Regional *Gateway *Kiski *Penn Hills-Linton *Plum-O’Block *McKeesport *Franklin Regional *Gateway *Kiski *Penn Hills-Linton

A A A H A H H H H A H A

Start

Depart

3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. --2:15 p.m. --2:00 p.m. --------2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m.

*Denotes Section 8 Games All games are played at Woodland Hills Junior High, 7600 Evans Avenue, Swissvale 15218 Athletics Office #412/244-1100 ext. 5141

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Summer Lawyers Each summer, the Allegheny County Bar Association offers a competitive internship program to high school students. This past summer was the very first time that Woodland Hills students applied to the program and three of our High School students were chosen to participate. In order to apply, each student had to have a 3.0 GPA, an accurate and current resume, and had to be interviewed. Our three students and the law firms where they were employed are: David Best, who interned with The Webb Law Firm; Samantha Herd who interned with the Juvenile Court Project; and Rachel Patterson who interned with Caroselli Bleachler McTiernan & Conboy.

The students worked a full day, were paid for their efforts and did a variety of tasks and assignments. David Best said, “my law firm focused on patents, trademarks, and copyrights. I absolutely loved it there.” The internships are meant to give the students a real taste for what lawyers do. The students rub shoulders not only with the staff of the law firms, but also corporate clients. “The thing that I liked most about my internship was how I met a CEO of a different company every week. It was so interesting seeing how corporate America was run and who ran it. They had so much good advice to give me,” explained David. “I would definitely participate in this opportunity or one like it again.” Some of the duties that the students performed included filing; attending board meetings; running errands; and delivering mail. They were given the chance to observe lawyers up close performing their daily duties and even spent some time in court. All three interns agreed that working in the law firms this summer gave them their first real work experience in the professional world. Applying to the program, going through the selection process, and doing their best to work hard every day, required a lot of initiative on their part, which is the first lesson in learning how to be successful.

HS Assistant Principal Liscia Lentz, David Best, Samantha Herd, HS Principal Dan Stephens (missing from photo: Rachel Patterson)

New Plan for Election of School Board Members On September 23, the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County approved the Board’s petition to modify the regional plan for the election of the members of the WHSD School Board. According to the new plan and effective immediately, the District will now be divided into three electoral regions. (See color coded map) The new regions will now more closely align with the Allegheny County Division of Elections districts.

These three regions cover the same amount of territory as the former 9 regions that split up municipalities and combined parts of different communities into the same region. The new plan will elect Directors differently: • Two directors will be elected from each of the three regions described above. • The remaining 3 directors will be elected at-large from any of the electoral regions. The new Plan shall be implemented in the following manner:

Region 1 Region 2

Region 3

At the municipal election in 2011, and every four years thereafter: • One School Board Director shall be elected from Region 1, one from Region 2, and one from Region 3. • Two School Board Directors shall be elected at-large from any of the electoral regions. • Each School Board Director’s term shall be four years.

• Region 1: will now include Churchill, Wilkins, Chalfant, and Turtle Creek. • Region 2: will now include Braddock, Rankin, Swissvale, and Edgewood. • Region 3: will now include Forest Hills, Braddock Hills, North Braddock, and East Pittsburgh.

Woodland Hills

At the municipal election in 2013 and every four years thereafter: • One School Board Director shall be elected from Region 1, one from Region 2, and one from Region 3. • One School Board Director shall be elected at-large from any of the electoral regions. • Each term shall be for four years.

The Allegheny County Division of Elections shall implement this Order by making any necessary adjustments to polling locations or balloting. Presently each board member represents one of the former nine regions. The terms of five of the current Directors ( Mrs. Messina, Mr. Driscoll, Dr. Lott, Mr. Rinsma, and Mr. Tomasic) end in 2011. The election in 2011will be conducted according to the stipulations of the new plan. The remaining four Directors (Mr. Clanagan, Mr. Estocin, Mrs. Filiak, and Mr. Kuhn) have terms that end in 2013. The proposal to change the voting arrangements for the School Board was the result of the work of a citizen group. A committee of volunteers studied the District, conducted research on the organization of various school district boards, and wrote a proposal that was eventually accepted for review and approval by our School Board. Then the WHSD Board petitioned the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas to modify our existing plan. Any questions concerning the new plan can be directed to the District Communications Department at 412-731-1300, ext. 0171 or email the Director of Communications, Maria McCool at mccoma@whsd.net.

Building Awareness and Supporting Research Lee Denim Days is a national breast cancer awareness campaign and fundraiser to support research to defeat this disease. It is usually held the first Friday in October. Our District schools participated in this national effort. In addition to “paying” to wear jeans, many of our students and staff chose to wear pink for the day. The High School staff rallied around a vintage pink mustang (top right) that they used as a symbol for their “Beating Breast Cancer” campaign. Their contributions totaled $800. Wilkins Elementary staff posed for a “Portrait in Pink” (right) to underscore their fundraising efforts. They raised over $300 for the cause.

Save a Life During Your Holiday Break Sign your child up for swim lessons being offered for free during the Holiday Break. More than 2000 people drown every year and the Woodland Hills School District is committed to making sure that doesn’t happen to our children. The District and Woodland Hills Aquatic Team are once again joining forces to bring free swim lessons to our children. Join us on December 20, 21, 28, 29 at the High School pool. Space is limited so download the registration forms from the District website and send them right away. You can also get registration forms from the Athletics Office in the High School (412-244-1100, ext. 5141) or contact Victoria Zido at tori@whatswimming.org. Advance registration is required. The classes are open to all Pre K – 6th grade students residing in the Woodland Hills School District. Students must be at least 4 years of age. Beginner lessons will focus on general water safety and the basics of breathing, kicking, floating and freestyle. More advanced groups will focus on some basics and other competitive strokes.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Why trees?

They clean our air. They create oxygen. They beautify our environment. Trees are particularly important in cities, where there is often very little green space. They create a noise barrier, making our streets quieter. They cool the air and ground around them, and they absorb rainwater and cleanse it of toxins. From the enormous Sycamore to the shrub-like Silky Dogwood, many species of native trees do well in the city. Well-placed trees around a home can lower air conditioning bills by up to 30% and windbreak trees can save up to 25% on winter heating costs. The Pittsburgh region has a rich cultural history. The Nine Mile Run Watershed reflects that richness and diversity in its neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own distinct flavor. Three of our neighborhoods in the Woodland Hills School District are part of the Nine Mile Run Watershed.

Swissvale Named by Jane Grey Swisshelm, one the leaders of the abolition movement and friend of Abraham Lincoln, Swissvale borough spans just under 2 square miles and boasts a population of about 10,000. About half of Swissvale is in the Nine Mile Run Watershed. When Swisshelm settled in the Nine Mile Run valley in 1842, she found the area beautiful and named her farm “Swiss-Vale.” Later, when the Pennsylvania Railroad came through, the nearby station took the same name. Swissvale was officially incorporated as its own borough in 1898.

Regent Square Regent Square is a distinctive neighborhood made up of parts of Edgewood, Swissvale, Wilkinsburg, and the City of Pittsburgh.

Edgewood Edgewood lies entirely within the Nine Mile Run Watershed. The borough has just over 3,300 residents and spans less than 1.5 square miles. Edgewood was incorporated in 1888 after a struggle with Braddock Township, which opposed its “secession.” Edgewood won out. At incorporation Edgewood claimed no paved roads, about 400 residents, and a total land value of $500,000. The Watershed Association grew out of the Nine Mile Run Greenway Project, run by the STUDIO for Creative Inquiry at Carnegie Mellon University. Since the Nine Mile Run Watershed Association was incorporated in 2001, they have developed programs that include watershed tours (in all seasons), educational workshops and other events, support of resident driven community gardens and street tree plantings in the upper watershed, a children’s environmental photography class, and active advocacy for the protection of Nine Mile Run. The Association planted about 30 trees on our Dickson Elementary school grounds in October. These trees will be a good size when the trees on the front lawn of the school will be in their last stages.

Dickson students help members of the Nine Mile Run Watershed Association plant trees around Dickson School in Swissvale.

Woodland Hills

Friendly Faces at the High School

The Association staff members helped Dickson students plant the trees and then provided an on-the-spot mini-lesson about the native trees and plants in the area. Why are greenspaces so invaluable to an urban watershed? There are several reasons; their plants and permeable ground absorb storm water that recharges the groundwater table and would otherwise end up in storm pipes. They provide habitat for wildlife and recreational opportunities for humans. Greenspace adds to the quality of life in urban neighborhoods in economic, environmental, and aesthetic ways. Each homeroom selected a student to help with the planting so that the entire school was represented. Dickson teacher, Mrs. Beth Wagner, supervised the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work with the Association.

There is now an Autistic Support Classroom at Woodland Hills High School and the students are getting to know their friends one day at a time through the Friendly Faces Program. Friendly Faces is a chance for students in the new Autistic Support classroom to interact with their peers. Friendly Faces is a nationally recognized program designed to build social skills, foster friendships, allow for peer mentoring, and introduce students to one another. Any student who has an ASE class (Academic Support & Enrichment) during the 8th period on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays is free to come to the Friendly Faces Program. Students have an opportunity to tutor, read, discuss current events, and create positive interactions with their peers in the Autistic Support Classroom. Some students who attend are thinking of possible careers in the field of special education, social work, or teaching. The students enjoy working with their peers in subjects such as reading, vocabulary, mathematics, and science projects. The local and national sports scenes are often discussed during social time and all students benefit from the time spent in the Friendly Faces Program. WHHS teacher Mrs. Marcia Mineo began the program this year. Mrs. Shirley Serene is a one-on-one aide in the classroom. So far the program has been a huge success. The teenagers at Woodland Hills High School are developing a sense of pride and fulfillment by participating in the Friendly Faces Program. Questions about the Friendly Faces Program can be directed to Mrs. Mineo at minema@whsd.net.

Thank You If you see a WHSD elementary student sporting a bright blue gym bag, it is due to the generous donation of one of our District businesses. Unison Health Plan donated over 1,357 of these bags, one for each student in our five elementary schools: Dickson, Edgewood, Fairless, Shaffer, and Wilkins. Unison Health Plan operates public-sector health care plans in 25 states, including the District of Columbia. Their Pennsylvania office is located in the Woodland Hills School District on Brinton Road. A big thank you to Unison Health Plan, from our grateful students and the District, for being such a supportive neighbor.

On the left is Jalaya Sudduth, (center) Destiny Townsend and (right) Anthony Jackson.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

The H.E.A.R.T. of North Braddock Hoping, Educating, And Reaching Together at Fairless Elementary School At Fairless Elementary School, students and staff are working together to make a positive impact in the school, in the community, and for important causes. The annual Fall Fair took place on Saturday, October 9th. Families, staff members, local organizations, and students joined together for a fun day filled with games, educational activities, and informational booths. Fifth and sixth graders in the Fairless Service Club are are organizing and carrying out numerous fund-raisers, events, other service activities in their community. Here are a few of their projects: Trick-or-Treating for UNICEF - All Fairless students were involved in collecting spare change for the United Nations Children’s Fund. Service Club members visited homerooms to show a video, explained how the program works, and passed out collection boxes. Homeless Shelter Visits - Students are visiting a homeless shelter in Braddock each month to complete art activities and games with younger children. Food Bank - Twice a month, Service Club members are assisting with the Word & Worship Church Food Bank. Mentoring - Each month, students are visiting younger classrooms to tutor, assist primary teachers, and organize activities and lessons. The first stop is the Pre-K room to teach a lesson on fire safety! Braddock Hills Senior Center - Students are organizing visits and activities for seniors at the Braddock Hills Senior Center. School-Wide Collections – The entire school is collecting items/money for the following organizations and causes: The Animal Rescue League, troops in Iraq, Pennies for Patients, The Foundation for Children With Cancer, Children’s Hospital, and The Humane Society. Winter Wonderland – Before the holiday break, Service Club members will organize a winter family night for Fairless. Students, families, and staff members will join together for an evening of games, raffles, informational tables, and other activities. Spring Clean Up – Members of the Fairless family will unite to clean up the school grounds, plant flowers, and spruce up the school garden. Talent Show for the Make-a-Wish Foundation – For the second year in a row, Service Club will organize a talent show for all grade levels. All proceeds will benefit the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Carwash for the Animal Rescue League – Each year, volunteers from the Animal Rescue League visit Fairless to teach lessons and introduce students to some of the adoptable animals. To say thank you, Service Club members will hold a carwash to raise funds for the shelter. Special Olympics – Service Club members will assist the Special Olympics with local sporting events. Thank you Fairless students and staff for being such good neighbors to your community. You set a high standard for all of us.

Woodland Hills

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

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

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

What’s Inside

page 2

The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4

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

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

Meet Our Physicians

The First Line of Defense Start the year off right with a visit to your primary care physician When you put together your New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to include a visit to your primary care physician (PCP). Navigating the health care system without an established relationship with a PCP is like playing football without a coach — you may have the ball, but no one knows what to do with it. Having a primary care physician is one of the most important things you can do to ensure quality health and wellness for yourself and your family. With a PCP, you’re assured continuity of care from a doctor who knows you and sees the big picture, says David A. Harinstein, MD, an internist at UPMC McKeesport and Health First Medical Associates–UPMC in McKeesport. “We’re the first line of defense in good health. We look at the whole person, and we focus on preventing problems,” Dr. Harinstein says. “When a problem does arise, we coordinate the patient’s health care and make sure everyone is communicating.”

www.UPMC.com/Today

The important role of your PCP As your partner in health, your PCP: • knows you, your lifestyle, and your family history • provides non-emergency treatment for common medical conditions from strep throat to bacterial infections and simple viruses • maintains your health records • focuses on preventive care • screens for diseases or conditions that may not present symptoms in early stages • updates vaccinations • checks blood pressure, blood sugar, and/or cholesterol, and establishes regular monitoring if those numbers are high • provides referrals to the right specialist or support program when needed

How do you find a PCP? Word of mouth from people you trust can be a great tool for finding a doctor. Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor for a recommendation. You also can visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information. To contact a UPMC McKeesport physician’s office directly, see our listing on page 7.

Finding a PCP Who Is the Right Fit for You There are several areas in which primary care physicians can focus: Family Medicine: Physicians who typically treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. Because family practitioners can care for the whole family, they have training in a number of medical disciplines, including internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. Internal Medicine: Physicians who treat adult patients, usually ages 18 and up. Internists diagnose and treat diseases in adults without surgery. They may have a subspecialty in a specific area, like the heart or lungs; a specific disease, such as diabetes; or a particular age group, such as the elderly. Pediatrics: Physicians who care for and treat newborns, infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatricians focus on preventive care for healthy children and treat children who are injured or ill. They specialize in childhood diseases, growth, and emotional health.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

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

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

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

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

www.UPMC.com/Today

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

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

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

Innovation at UPMC

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

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

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

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

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

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

1-800-533-UPMC

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

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

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

www.UPMC.com/Today

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

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

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

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

Meet Our Physicians UPMC McKeesport has many primary care physicians on staff. Start the New Year off right by making an appointment with one right in your own community.

BRADDOCK Internal Medicine

McKEESPORT Family Medicine

Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-351-6300 Paul Donegan, MD ................ 412-351-6300

Daphne Bicket, MD................ Tracey Conti, MD.................... Essam Demian, MD .............. Martin Johns, MD .................. James Johnson, MD .............. Harry Lanauze, MD................ William Markle, MD.............. Cathleen McGonigle, DO .... Emeil Shenouda, MD ............

CLAIRTON Internal Medicine Madhusudan Menon, MD .. 412-267-6307

DUQUESNE Family Medicine Clifford Chen, MD .................. 412-469-3627 Isaac Levari, MD .................... 412-469-3627 Todd Zimmerman, MD ........ 412-469-3627

Internal Medicine Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-466-6300 Mubashar Chughtai, MD .... 412-469-4100

EAST McKEESPORT Internal Medicine Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-824-4015

ELIZABETH Family Medicine James Campagna, MD.......... Edward Goralczyk, MD ........ Irene Lomeda, MD ................ Douglas Skinner, MD ............

412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-664-4141 412-672-2877 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic, Jr., MD .. Rudolph Antoncic III, MD.... Ibrahim Ghobrial, MD .......... David Harinstein, MD .......... Nadeem Islam, MD................ Reena Karnik, MD .................. John Parry, MD........................ Robert Pavlak, MD ................ R. Curtis Waligura, DO ........

412-672-1000 412-751-4400 412-664-2782 412-672-1000 412-672-1000 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-678-7717

MONROEVILLE Family Medicine Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 724-327-0212

412-751-0200 412-751-4661 412-751-4661 412-751-4661

FOREST HILLS Family Medicine Laura Arnold, MD .................. Clifford Chen, MD .................. Gordon Handelsman, MD .. Inna Lamm, MD ...................... Isaac Levari, MD .................... Douglas Skinner, MD ............

WEST MIFFLIN Family Medicine

Internal Medicine Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 724-327-0212

MUNHALL Family Medicine Gordon Handelsman, MD .. 412-462-7700

412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-241-7700 412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-247-3222

Internal Medicine

Seetha Chandra, MD ............ 412-271-5220

RANKIN Internal Medicine

R. Curtis Waligura, MD ........ 412-461-2790

PLEASANT HILLS Internal Medicine Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-877-7387

Internal Medicine GLASSPORT Internal Medicine

Radhalaskshmi Aluru, MD .. 412-351-4555

Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-672-6133 Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-678-0783 V. Edgardo Reyes, MD .......... 412-678-0783

SWISSVALE Family Medicine

HAZELWOOD Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

Joseph Santiesteban, MD .. 412-462-1800

HOMESTEAD Internal Medicine Jose Caballe, MD.................... 412-678-7711 Vera Sherman, MD ................ 412-462-6001

Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 412-351-3088 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-271-7333 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-271-7333 Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 412-351-3088

TURTLE CREEK Internal Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD .................. 412-823-7390 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-823-7390 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-823-7390

Darcy Giger, DO...................... 412-650-9700 Mamta Patel, MD .................. 412-650-9700 Lynn Potts, MD........................ 412-650-9700

Internal Medicine Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-466-0670 Oliver Herndon, MD.............. 412-460-1111

WHITE OAK Family Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD .................. Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ Louis DiToppa, DO ................ Samuel Kupfer, MD .............. Jan Pomiecko, MD.................. Farial Rawji, MD......................

412-672-8311 412-672-8311 412-664-0720 412-673-8140 412-678-8740 412-672-3633

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic Jr., MD.... David Arisumi, MD ................ Joseph Caballe, MD .............. David Harinstein, MD .......... Mohammad Idrees, MD ...... Nadeem Islam, MD................ Rahila Khwaja, MD ................ Muhammad Mukhtar, MD .. Prabhat Seth, MD ..................

412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-678-7711 412-673-5020 412-672-6800 412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-672-9000 412-678-0219

Pediatrics Kamlesh Pandy, MD .............. 412-673-2200 Leslie Silberman, MD............ 412-673-2200

WILKINSBURG Family Medicine Yee Ho, MD .............................. 412-243-4500

WILMERDING Family Medicine Veena Dhar, MD .................... 412-816-1818

Meet our Gastroenterologists Ragunath Appasamy, MD .. Samir Ayasso, MD ................ Leonard Baidoo, MD.............. Parth Bharill, MD.................... Satish Kanakamedala, MD.. Hossam Kandil, MD .............. Pradeep Kumar, MD .............. Wendy Mikulski, MD ............ Sudhir Narla, MD.................... Hitendra Patel, MD................ Vijay Singh, MD ...................... Adam Slivka, MD.................... Mahesh Varindani, MD ........ Dhiraj Yadav, MD ..................

412-488-7474 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-232-7572 412-683-2488 412-672-5766 724-205-3318 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-672-5766 412-828-0100 412-672-5766

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 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 www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

FIRE SAFETY Edgewood Elementary Fire Safety Day On October 21, 2010, members of the Edgewood Borough Fire Department visited the school and talked with the children about fire safety. Despite the seriousness of the subject, the teachers, students, and Mrs. Carter had a very enjoyable time.

Edgewood Elementary Principal Janet Carter poses in uniform with Ms. Rachel Riefman's Pre K students on Edgewood Fire Safety Day.

Anti-Bullying Kick-off Program Students perform in skits for the Anti-Bullying Kick-off Program at Woodland Hills Junior High School. High school students joined junior high actors in portraying situations that showed bullying behavior and how to respond in a positive manner.

Woodland Hills Alumnus Visits Dickson WHSD alumnus Chris Greve (2002) recently visited Dickson Elementary School to talk about his career at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. He is a Guidance, Navigation and Control (GN&C) Systems analyst and programmer for ERC Inc. as part of the Engineering and Science Contract (ESC) Group. Mr. Greve graduated from Drexel University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He credits WHHS physics teacher Mr. Laychak (retired) with inspiring him to pursue engineering as a career path. Dickson students were interested in learning about his job and asked lots of questions about the programs that he is working on at the Space Center. Mr. Greve explained the broad range of his responsibilities that include: developing requirements for spacecraft docking mechanisms; reviewing commercial autonomous spacecraft designs to ensure the safety of the International Space Station when using the robotic arm; and developing multiple spacecraft simulators to be used for engineering analysis and astronaut training. He brought with him NASA educational materials for the teachers so they could follow-up his presentation with additional work in their science classes. Mr. Greve’s mother, Mrs. Lianne Greve, is the school nurse at Dickson. IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Woodland Hills Foundation Pedals to Unite District Communities While there are events happening all the time within the 12 communities that make up the Woodland Hills School District, the Woodland Hills Foundation wanted to organize one that unified all 12, and the “Tour du District” was born. Broken down into three rides – a 5-mile easy ride, a 25-mile ride that hits all of the municipalities in the district, and a 30-mile ride which is the same as the 25-mile ride with the exception of the addition of a challenging ending of hill climbing – the Tour du District took riders past each of the eight schools in the district. For those who craved that extra “oomph” in their rides, the 30-mile ride took riders up hills that have some of the steepest grades in the US. Dr. Steven Gough, president of the Woodland Hills Foundation, said the event was such as success that planning for next year began before the day was over. “We had a total of 104 riders and it was sort of a split between the 5- and 25-mile rides. We had nine registered for 30-mile, but only four did it on the day of the event,” Gough said. “At the last minute, we opened up a ride for the kids because we had some kids from the grade schools who wanted to participate.” Gough said that while the total money raised is still being calculated, it’s safe to say that more than $3,500 was brought in by the foundation. Open to all riders, the Woodland Hills Foundation advertised the Tour du District to more than 2,000 outlets for cyclists on the internet, along with all of the bike shops in Western Pennsylvania. Proceeds from the event, help sponsor the good work that the Woodland Hills Foundation does for the District. WHF Foundation projects include: • Coordinating a partnership with the Framing Hope national product donation program to accept and distribute home and building supplies to the needy. Approximately $480,000 of items have been distributed since September 2009.

Woodland Hills

• Awarding 90 Mini-Grants totaling $45,000 to teachers in the District since 2002. Mini-Grants are modest cash awards that encourage and facilitate great teaching ideas. • Awarding Scholarships totaling $11,500 to 16 graduating seniors pursuing post-secondary education at non-four year institutions. • Established and awarded two Julia Anne McCool Memorial Scholarships for the Arts and Humanities. • Sponsoring the Woodland Hills All District Art Show since 2006. • Sponsoring the Annual Alumni Cabaret for the past five years that showcases Woodland Hills’ prestigious alumni from the District’s award winning musicals. Gough said that he would like to see more elite riders and students participate in the event next year. “From some of the feedback that we got, we learned that a lot of the elite riders did the 30-mile ride because it included the fourth steepest hill in the country, and they did the ride to train for the Dirty Dozen ride, which is a tour of Pittsburgh’s biggest hills,” Gough said. “We also got feedback that the riders felt extremely safe and almost like celebtrites because the police and fire departments would hold back traffic to let them through. They said it was the most supportive ride that they had ever been on.” Gough said that in addition to local police and fire departments helping to guide the riders, volunteers from churches, schools and the community helped assist in facilitating the ride. The ride also had five ambulances on standby and a portable emergency room in case of accidents. “The safest place in Western Pennsylvania that day was along that ride,” Gough said. “I can’t thank the police and fire departments and community enough for all their help in making this the success that it was.” While no specific date has been set for the 2011 ride, Gough said it will be in October and include more entertainment and music, as well as the possibility of a formal Children’s Ride. For more information on the Woodland Hills Foundation, go to www.whsdfoundation.org.

WHSD Profile: John C. Danchisko, WHHS English Teacher It’s been a very busy year already for WHHS English Teacher and Department Co-Chair John Danchisko. In addition to his full load of teaching duties, he has also been a presenter at several state conferences. Being asked to present at these events is not only a personal honor, but Mr. Danchisko represents the District as being in the forefront of integrating technology into the curriculum and into the classroom. This past summer, he attended and presented at the Keystone Technology Integrator Summit at Bucknell University. A select group of 100 teachers were invited to participate in the week-long program. Danchisko created and entered a sample project illustrating the use of technology in the classroom including student work. His project was chosen for presentation. In addition, when a Keynote Speaker did not show up, he came to the rescue and also presented a Standards Aligned System (SAS) lesson and fielded questions from participants about Promethean Board technology and formative assessment in the English classroom. The weblink to the project he submitted is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4VEROIw17c&feature=pla yer_embedded#at=13 He was also invited to present a lesson entitled “ActivAnnotation” at the state-wide conference, “Using Standards Aligned System to Ensure 21st Century Teaching and Learning Institute” in Hershey, PA on December 10, 2009. This was the official kick-off of the SAS initiative. The goal of the conference was to model ways of increasing student achievement using 21st Century strategies. Danchisko’s lesson utilized Promethean Boards and ActiVotes to model annotation when reading E.E. Cummings’ poetry. To see his presentation, you can visit this link: http://support.prometheanplanet.com/server.php?show=ConRe source.31092 He was asked to present the same Model Lesson at the “SAS For Higher Education” conference on June 8th in Lancaster, PA. This conference was directed toward colleges and universities in the Commonwealth. Its purpose was to illustrate methods of using SAS and modeling 21st Century Teaching and Learning integrating technologies. With every invitation and presentation, Mr. Danchisko promotes the Woodland Hills School District and our highly trained teaching staff. We hope his youthful vitality will allow him to continue to be a force both within the classroom and as one of our District’s most effective educational role models.

Help a Child Learn the Pleasures of Reading Children who cannot read at grade level by fourth grade are at a much greater risk for continuing challenges in school and in life. Imagine – a child’s future could be determined by the time that child completes the fourth grade. The Buhl Foundation and The Grable Foundation are supporting the OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring program and the new OASIS High Impact Tutoring program in the Woodland Hills School District and in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. This program will directly assist academically at-risk students in our communities. Both OASIS Intergenerational tutoring programs help children to build reading skills, self-esteem and positive attitudes toward learning. In the traditional program, tutors and children meet once per week. OASIS Tutoring Coordinator and Churchill resident Marlene Rebb said, “When the enthusiasm of youth is combined with the wisdom and experience of an adult 50 and older, amazing things can happen. The success of this nationally acclaimed volunteer tutoring program is the strength of the specially designed curriculum, the comprehensive and extensive training and ongoing support for the tutors.” “The new tutoring project was developed in response to new research showing that at-risk children have a better chance to succeed if they meet with a reading tutor more than once per week,” commented Gail Weisberg, OASIS Executive Director, also a Churchill resident. She said that “funding from The Buhl Foundation has made it possible to hire Joy Maxberry Woodruff as the new PR/Outreach Manager to conduct an education and awareness campaign about the High Impact OASIS Tutoring programming as well as the traditional OASIS Tutoring program now in its 10th year in our area.” Joy is available to speak to your group to educate and encourage those individuals 50 years of age and older to give back to our community by helping children read better and succeed in life. If you are interested in learning more about the OASIS Tutoring in the Woodland Hills School District‘s six elementary schools, please contact OASIS at 412-232-2022 or gweisberg@oasisnet.org The OASIS Mission: The mission of OASIS is to enrich the lives of mature adults by engaging them in lifelong learning and service programs so they can learn, lead and contribute in their communities. OASIS, Macy’s 10th floor, 400 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Standing: Gail Weisberg, Pittsburgh OASIS Executive Director, Sitting (left) Jan Clover, National OASIS Tutoring Coordinator, (right) Marlene Rebb, Pittsburgh OASIS Tutoring Coordinator.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

WOODLAND HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

This spring, the Woodland Hills High School stage will be transformed into a timeless world of love, romance, seduction and despair. One of Broadway’s greatest hits, The Phantom of the Opera is celebrating its twentieth year as Broadway’s most haunting love story. The central plot of the musical revolves around a beautiful soprano, Christine, who becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius. Phantom is the winner of seven Tony® Awards including Best Musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterwork is more than the longest-running musical in Broadway history it’s an international phenomenon that unmasks emotions in all ages and leaves audiences everywhere breathless.

Is Coming

Audience members of all ages have been entranced by the spectacular score, the haunting romance, and the timeless story. In addition to the title piece, other popular musical selections include “All I Ask of You,” “Think of Me,” and “Music of the Night.”

Box Office Information: Ticket Price: $10 To order tickets by phone, call: 412.244.1100 x5187 Box Office will be open beginning March 1 Hours: Tuesday & Thursday, 6-8 p.m.; Wednesday: 2:30-6:30 p.m., and 1 hour before each performance.

Performance Schedule: April 29, 30, May 5, 6, & 7: 8 p.m. April 30 & May 7: 1 p.m.

Woodland Hills School District

Holiday Concerts

Dec. 9 Dickson, Edgewood & Wilkins Intermediate Band, Orchestra & 6th Grade Chorus @ Woodland Hills Junior High Dec. 14 Woodland Hills Junior High Winter Concert

Dec. 15 Woodland Hills High School Chamber Choir, Orchestra & Jazz Band

Dec. 16 WH Academy, Fairless & Shaffer Intermediate Band, Orchestra & 6th Grade Chorus @ WH Academy

Jan. 10 Woodland Hills High School Freshman Choir, A Cappella Choir, Concert Band & 9th Grade Concert Band All concerts at 7:00 pm Pictured: Students from Mrs. Hertrick’s Edgewood Elementary band students (L to R) Madison Chontos, Ciare Blye, Melissa Albert, Claire Batchell, Kaitlyn Edinger

Woodland Hills

Winter Woodland Hills Sports 2010/2011 GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

2010-2011 RIFLE

Head Coach - KORIE MORTON-ROZIER

Head Coach - Matt Rodrigues Dec. 02 Dec. 07 Dec. 09 Dec. 14 Dec. 16 Dec. 21 Dec. 23 Jan. 06 Jan. 11 Jan. 13 Jan. 18 Jan. 20 Jan. 25 Jan. 27 Feb. 01 Feb. 03 Feb. 08 Feb. 15-17

Indiana (Scrimmage) Washington Trinity Upper St. Clair McGuffey Indiana West Green *Bethel Park *Butler *Plum *Mt. Lebanon *Mt. Lebanon *Bethel Park *Butler *Plum *Mt. Lebanon *Mt. Lebanon WPIAL Team Finals

A H A H A A H A H H H A H A A A H A

Start

Depart

4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. TBA

2:30 p.m. --1:30 p.m. --1:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m. ------1:30 p.m. --1:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. --TBA

*Denotes Section 8 Games

Dec. 06 Dec. 10-11 Dec. 16 Dec. 20 Dec. 27-29 Jan. 03 Jan. 04 Jan. 06 Jan. 07 Jan. 11 Jan. 17 Jan. 20 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Jan. 28 Jan. 31 Feb. 04 Feb. 07 Feb. 10

Schenley (Scrimmage) Steel Valley Tournament *Gateway *Franklin Regional Hempfield Tournament *Fox Chapel Kiski *Plum Blackhawk *McKeesport *Penn Hills *Gateway Norwin *Franklin Regional *Fox Chapel *Plum *McKeesport (Varsity only) Shaler *Penn Hills (Senior Rec)

H A H A A H A A A H A A H H A H A A H

Start

Depart

6:00 p.m. TBA 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. TBA 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m.

--TBA --4:30 p.m. TBA --4:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m. 4:00 p.m. --4:45 p.m. 4:45 p.m. ----4:30 p.m. --4:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. ---

*Denotes Section 8 Games

All Home matches are played at Woodland Hills High School, 2550 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15221.

All games are played at Woodland Hills Junior High, 7600 Evans Avenue, Swissvale 15218.

2010/2011 9TH GRADE BOYS’ BASKETBALL Dec. 02 Dec. 07 Dec. 14 Dec. 16 Jan. 07 Jan. 11 Jan. 14 Jan. 18 Jan. 21 Jan. 25 Jan. 27 Feb. 01 Feb. 02 Feb. 04 Feb. 08 Feb. 09 Feb. 11 Feb. 15 Feb. 18

Laurel Highlands (scrimmage @HS) Penn-Trafford (scrimmage) Pine Richland West Mifflin *McKeesport *Plum *Franklin Regional *Fox Chapel *Gateway *Penn Hills *Penn-Trafford *McKeesport Pine Richland Plum *Franklin Regional West Mifflin *Fox Chapel Gateway *Penn Hills

3:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

A H H A H A H A H H H A A H A A H A

4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

2:30 p.m. ----2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m. ----2:30 p.m. 2:15 p.m. 2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. --2:30 p.m.

Head Coach - Zack Simko

* Denotes Section Games All Home matches are played at Woodland Hills High School, 2550 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15221.

2010/2011 BOYS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach - Michael Decker Dec. 07 Dec. 10-11 Dec. 14 Dec. 17 Dec. 21 Dec. 28-30 Jan. 04 Jan. 07 Jan. 11 Jan. 14 Jan. 15 Jan. 18 Jan. 21 Jan. 25 Jan. 28 Feb. 01 Feb. 04 Feb. 08 Feb. 11 Feb. 14

Schenley (Scrimmage) Pine-Richland Tournament Penn-Trafford *Gateway *Franklin Regional Jeffersontown Tournament *Fox Chapel *Plum *McKeesport West Mifflin Kiski *Penn Hills *Gateway *Franklin Regional *Fox Chapel *Plum *McKeesport (Varsity only) Shaler *Penn Hills (Senior Rec) Holidaysburg

2010/2011 JUNIOR HIGH WRESTLING

H A H H A A H A H A H A A H A H A H H A

4:00 p.m. TBA 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. TBA 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 1:00/2:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 6:00/7:30 p.m. 5:00/6:30 p.m.

--TBA ----4:00 p.m. TBA --4:15 p.m. --4:15 p.m. --4:45 p.m. 4:45 p.m. --4:45 p.m. --6:15 p.m. ----2:30 p.m.

Dec. 08 Dec. 15 Jan. 03 Jan. 08 Jan. 12 Jan. 09 Jan. 26 Feb. 02 Feb. 07 Feb. 09 Feb. 14 Feb. 16

Fox Chapel (scrimmage) Kiski Franklin Regional Southmoreland Tournament Gateway Penn Hills Penn-Trafford West Mifflin McKeesport Norwin Laurel Highlands Black Hawk

A H A A A H A A A H H A

4:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

2:30 p.m. --4:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m. --2:15 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. ----4:00 p.m.

All Home matches are played at Woodland Hills High School, 2550 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15221.

2010/2011 WRESTLING Head Coach - Wayne Anderson Dec. 10-11 Dec. 15 Dec. 29-30 Jan. 03 Jan. 05 Jan. 12 Jan. 14-15

Eastern Area Tournament A *Kiski H West Mifflin Tournament A Franklin Regional A *Central Catholic H *Gateway A Allegheny Co. Tournament A @ Fox Chapel Jan. 19 *Penn Hills H Jan. 26 Indiana (Senior Rec) H Jan. 26 Section Championship A Feb. 01-05 WPIAL Team Championships A Feb. 02 West Mifflin A Feb. 07 McKeesport A Feb. 09 Norwin H Feb. 26 WPIAL Sectionals A Mar. 03-5 WPIAL/PIAA AAA A SW Regionals Mar. 10-12 PIAA AAA Championships A

TBA 7:00 p.m. TBA 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. TBA

TBA --TBA 5:30 p.m. --5:45 p.m. TBA

7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. TBA TBA 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. TBA TBA

----TBA TBA 5:15 p.m. 5:15 p.m. --TBA TBA

TBA

* Denotes Section Games All Home matches are played at Woodland Hills High School, 2550 Greensburg Pike, Pittsburgh, PA 15221.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

D the N U D

IS T

d is one of 3,100 Asraiel J. Harewoo nal pants in the Natio Outstanding Partici ing referred be m ra og larship Pr Achievement Scho nsideration. d universities for co to U.S. colleges an rcent ored in the top 3 pe These students sc ans who 0,000 Black Americ of the more than 16 evement 2011 National Achi participated in the e 2009 Preliminary Program, part of th ifying Test it Scholarship Qual SAT/National Mer (PSAT/NMSQT). gh udentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; names, hi A roster of these st ces oi ch or aj m ge ive colle schools, and tentat and out 1,500 colleges is being sent to ab universities. gh Woodland Hills Hi Asraiel, a senior at the drum selected as one of School, was also for the S Marching Band majors for the WHH two WHHS She is also one of 2010 - 11 season. School tives to the WHSD student representa grader s. Along with 11th Board of Director e monthly Asraiel attends th Vincent LeDonne, the Board tings and informs School Board mee tivities and hool events and ac Directors about sc us issues. entsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; views on vario represents the stud

RICT

WOOD

HILLS P

Pictured: L Queen: Faculty King and IoffL and D L Chr H Pol n isty AND Bill Coles

Award October 2010 Wolverine Spirit s Academy. Hill Winners from the Woodland y (left) and Seventh grader Jaida Mosle djiba (right). seventh grader Bernice Kpa

g Court was: The 2010 WHHS Homecomin a Dixon Bri Julian Turner nnon Turner Sha Jevonte Pitts Jacquayla Jackson Brian McGuigan Melody Bryant Tyler Bubin Savannah Sappington Quinton Jefferson Nicole Nystrom Ejuan Price Giovanna Bodner Monte Chapman Emily Meleshenko John Cobbs Ondrea Bentley Bryan Jessell Julia Poetain Brian Tougher Queen - Bria Dixon King - Ejuan Price 1st Runner Up King Monte Chapman 1st Runner Up Queen Ondrea Bentley

Woodland Hills

WOLVERINE SPIRIT AWARDS

AROUN

HOMECOMING

D RI

AROUN

Bree Grimes (l) and Quame Gaines (r)

DLAND HI

D BarbeadAmhoickusewos forrksthewith Every year HS art teacher

DLAND HIL

ree other ry School joins th Shaffer Elementa dland gs within the Woo elementary buildin cipient of rict in being the re Hills Schools Dist velop to help children de a grant designed uit and bits. The “Fresh Fr healthy eating ha by the m Grant” funded Vegetable Progra with a Shaffer students state, will provide to enjoy it and vegetables variety of fresh fru O k. Children will be able to twice each wee O Drious flavors of the L experience the va Lrnoon y an daA esL HafthIteey Nd thFrDieidrayas produce each Tu me heal at school and beco tter food choices. learn to make be ration of run through the du The program will t brings hool year. The gran the 2010 - 2011 sc t. funds to the Distric almost $100,000 in

e Schedule

The UPMC Care M obile will be in the Woodland Hills School District on the following date s: 12/7/2010 Dickson School in Swissva le (412.731.5816) 12/14/2010 Woodlan d Hills Academy in Turtle Creek (412 .824.2450) 12/28/2010 No Care Mobile- Holiday Break Hours: 9:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m.

AROUN

motes Shaffer Pro D Healthy Eating UPMC Care Mobil

rbr students to produce ginge ntergarden downtown. Holiday Display at PPG Wi ht Up Night, November 19 The display begins on Lig early January. and continues on through on this year’s creations d The students who worke ie Baker, Kortney Lang, are: Sara Hinojosa, Magg inger, Jasmine Greene, Brea Marzec, Laura Redd vis Olivia Biggs, and Mia Da

WOODLAN

AROUN

Sixth Grade Students Bree Grimes and Quam e Gaines were photographed as they shared anchoring dutie s for the morning news announcements at Dickson Elementary School. Each day's announcements are video ed and watched in the classrooms on promethean boards. The live news casts are not only informative but they are the highest rated TV show in the K-6 grade view ing audience.

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

How to Prevent Injury this Winter by Jamie Ward

Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Older Adults in Woodland Hills

Tax Planning for The New Year by Jamie Ward Americans filing federal returns can expect year-end tax planning to be a bit more complicated this time around because we don’t know what the tax rates will be for 2011 just yet. The current rates, known as the Bush tax cuts from 2001, are due to expire on December 31 of this year. So when the new rates get passed, taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared. “For this year,” says Marzina, “ I think its very important that people be paying attention to what happens in the political spectrum in terms of tax rates for the new year and to make sure you have your advisers lined up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” Each year, an individual is allowed to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill out a gift tax return, which goes against the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Which right now is not determined. So you could give gifts of up to $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay a tax on it. According to the IRS, You can’t deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left to a charitable organization.

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Federal estate taxes may have been repealed for 2010 but are set to return on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% on estates valued at more than $1 million. In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all assets got a “step-up” in basis when someone died. This meant that no tax would have to be paid on appreciated assets like stock and real estate. But under new laws all assets inherited may be subject to the capital gains tax. If the current administration’s proposal to allow rates to expire and return to 2009’s rate, the “step-up” in basis will return. Another proposal is to have most of the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and taxes on dividends and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. The Republican proposal is to extend current tax rates for a period of 2 years and cap dividends and capital gains at 15%. Marzina says that the question many people are asking is, if you have assets that have significant capital gains built in, should you accelerate taxes and sell those assets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate, instead of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%? The problem here is that taxpayers wont have a lot of time to make these decisions. According to Marzina, if the new tax laws are in place by December 1st, there will only be a 30 day window to make any decisions this year, so the best thing to do is make those decisions as quickly as possible.

Woodland Hills

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

Senior Agencies Monroeville 6000 Gateway Campus Blvd. 412.865.7825 Plum Senior Center 499 Center-New Texas Road Pittsburgh, PA 15239 412.795.2330

Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you.

Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify.

ACCESS 65 Plus & ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area. It serves primarily senior citizens and persons with disabilities. There are no restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their vehicle with others traveling in the same direction and at the same time.

Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card.

Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460 Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.

Connecting People’s Resources with People’s Needs

BBF, a 52-year old Pittsburgh-based international charity, has provided over $3.4 billion of medical supplies, textbooks, food, seeds, and other humanitarian supplies to people around the world in over 140 countries. In the !rst nine months of 2010 alone, BBF sent product contributions to those in need in 48 countries including Argentina, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Malawi, Nicaragua, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda and Vietnam. These shipments were the equivalent of 175 tractor trailer loads with an estimated value of over $175 million. Also in 2010, BBF furnished supplies for 175 medical and humanitarian hand-carry mission trips that served 33 countries.

Does your organization work for the benefit of the community? Let us know! E-mail Mary Beth at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY Please consider a donation to the Braddock Carnegie Library. Every penny helps us better serve our communities.

Hours of Operation: Main Library Tuesday-Thursday: 12:00-7:00 p.m. Friday: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Closed: Sunday and Monday Turtle Creek Satellite Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Wednesday: 12:00-6:00 p.m. Friday: 12:00-5:00 p.m. Closed: Saturday & Sunday Holiday closings: December 24th & 25th, January 1st

Jobe Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Funeral Director, John L. “Kip” Quinlan III, to its professional staff. James Jobe, FD and Roy Jobe, FD are delighted to have Kip and his former staff from the John L. Quinlan Funeral Home Inc. reunite to provide funeral services to families of Turtle Creek and the surrounding communities. “For seventy one years the Quinlan Family served the community with dignity, pride, and respect. And now we are honored to have Kip Quinlan and his entire former staff join us,” said James Jobe. Mr. Quinlan will be available upon request to counsel families through their time of loss. Families who have made prearrangement funeral services elsewhere and would now like Mr. Quinlan to handle the arrangements moving forward, should contact Mr. Quinlan through Jobe Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 412.823.1950.

TURTLE CREEK CHAPEL Corner of Shaw and Triboro Avenues

Roy R. Jobe, F.D. , Supv. MONROEVILLE/ PLUM CHAPEL Corner of Beatty Road and 48 North

James R. Jobe, F.D. , Supv.

We are proud to announce that we are now the only funeral home in the Turtle Creek Valley/Monroeville area with an onsite crematory, ensuring that your loved one never leaves our care. 34 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Woodland Hills

412.823.1950 www.jobefuneralhome.com Family owned since 1895

Rechargeable Hearing Aid Batteries: Earth and Wallet Friendly? Dr. Debra Comte, Owner of Community Hearing and Doctor of Audiology

Earth Friendly

Bonus Benefit: Easy to Use

Rechargeable hearing aid batteries reduce the number of disposable batteries making their way to the landfill. For example, one rechargeable hearing aid battery typically replaces about 57 disposable batteries. Further, rechargeable hearing aid batteries are mercury free unlike most regular hearing aid batteries.

Some of my patients use rechargeable batteries because they can be easier to use. For example, rechargeable batteries do not have tabs. Tabs are on regular disposable hearing aid batteries and can be a pain to remove due to their small size. Rechargeable batteries can also be easier because you do not need to run to the store as often to buy new batteries. One model of charger I like for its portability is the Pocketcharger. I suggest this to people who travel often. It is small and can charge about 18 times without using electricity (each charge usually powers the hearing aid all day). After those 18 charges, then you just plug it in to an outlet to get it powered up for your next use. The easiest charging method is a charging station. Charging stations are a lot like a docking station for a cell phone. You just place your hearing aids in a compartment and the hearing aids will charge while you sleep. These are particularly great for those with reduced dexterity and feeling in their fingers since the batteries do not need to be removed from the hearing aids.

Wallet Friendly Most manufacturers of rechargeable hearing aid batteries say that rechargeable batteries will pay for themselves in a few years. Using rechargeable batteries costs more up front because there is typically a charge for the charging station. The batteries themselves cost more but tend to last about 12-18 months before needing to be replaced, while disposable batteries last only 1-2 weeks. From what I have found there are some cases where rechargeable hearing aid batteries can save you money and others where regular hearing aid batteries will cost less. In general, the more batteries you need over the life of your hearing aid, the more cost effective rechargeable batteries will become. For example, if you use two hearing aids rather than one, rechargeable batteries are more likely to save you money. Also, the size of the battery matters. Since small disposable batteries have to be replaced more often, you will save more money with rechargeable batteries when your hearing aids require a small size like 10 or 312 rather than a large size like 13. As technology improves, so too will the lifespan of rechargeable batteries. So in the future, rechargeable batteries will become more of a money saver.

So, ask your audiologist about rechargeable batteries to see if they are a good choice for you. For more information on hearing loss and hearing aids, visit us online at www.CommunityHearing.net.

FREE rechargeable batteries and charger

Dr. Debra Comte, Audiologist and Owner

Free rechargeable batteries and charger with the purchase of any hearing aid. Call by 1/31/11 for this offer A $200 value.

Edgewood Towne Centre 1789 S. Braddock Ave. Suite 575 Pittsburgh, PA 15218

412-499-3215

Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

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Woodland Hills

Ad Campaign All Upside for Braddock If you’re channel surfing and happen to see Braddock on the screen, you’re probably watching a new Levi’s commercial that celebrates Braddock and its people as part of their “We Are All Workers” ad campaign. Shot on location in Braddock, the campaign features a dozen residents of diverse backgrounds dressed in Levi’s Work Wear Collection for fall. Levi’s contends that the industrial revolution taking place in Braddock is intertwined with their company image as a brand of jeans and work wear for the working people who make such changes possible. “Last year, driven by the pioneering spirit the Levi’s brand has represented for more than 150 years, ‘Go Forth’ created a resonate message underscoring a new vision of hope and progress,” said Doug Sweeny, VP, Levi’s Brand Marketing. “This year, we’re turning that energy into something tangible by engaging in meaningful conversations around ‘real work’ and celebrating the individuals who are carving the way for a better tomorrow.” As a result of being featured in a national ad campaign, Braddock received a $1 million donation to its community center renovation project. The ads also feature Braddock Mayor John Fetterman, who has been a selfless backer and cheerleader for Braddock for the nearly a decade he’s been in office. Fetterman said the Levi’s campaign is an ongoing relationship with Braddock and a wonderful thing for the community as a whole. Despite Braddock’s good fortune of being selected for national attention, the campaign has received some criticism on internet blogs and news article feedback forums. Those who do comment state that if Levi’s is so concerned about the community, they should relocate one of their Chinese factories to Braddock and create jobs there. Fetterman discounts that criticism outright as the work of “perennial detractors.” “There aren’t as many blogs that are critical as there are those that are supportive,” Fetterman said. “Some folks do have a weird obsession over it, though, and I find it ironic that they’re sitting there anonymous, typing on a Chinese-made computer and saying that Levi’s should move to Braddock. What have they done to help a community, let alone Braddock? They don’t understand the benefit the relationship has brought to the community.”

Because of his work as Braddock’s mayor, Fetterman’s Levi’s ad presence is just the latest of a string of national appearances ranging from the Colbert Report to NPR, where he’s touting the potential of, and changes in Braddock. That attention has not gone to his head, however. “I’m not a celebrity. I’m a just a mayor. When I’m answering questions, it’s promoting our community and communities that have suffered like Braddock. I’m not looking for higher office. My salary’s the same – $150 a month as mayor. I didn’t even get a free pair of jeans from Levi’s. I didn’t make a dime off the levi’s campaign. It’s been all upside,” Fetterman said. “Everyone in the ad is a Braddock resident. All shots were filmed here locally. One hundred percent of the benefit that Levi’s been to the community has been passed on to the community. The community center that they’re helping to rebuild is named after a little girl who was murdered by her father here years ago. There are no logos, no flaming hoops to jump through to get the money. They said, ‘We don’t know what your community needs, you do. So let’s help.’” In addition to the community center, Levi’s also has helped out with Braddock’s urban garden, which raises fresh produce for residents at a low cost. For Fetterman, the Levi’s campaign is just one of many ways that he sees people contributing to a community that has made great progress climbing the mountain before it. Giving back, he said, is nothing new to the people who love and support Braddock. “When I’m appearing any place, all of my honorariums go back to the community for youth activities. I receive no compensation. I’m not taking on any side projects. Whenever I’m off promoting the town, all those fees go back to summer employment or to support ice cream trucks for the kids. I benefit in no way shape or form through my office. I invest a great deal personally back into the community,” he said. “In my relationship with the community, Levi’s one out of ten pieces out of it. What critics don’t know is that many hundreds of people receive GEDs through the programs I started. It’s entirely comprehensive what we’ve done here.”

HaveYou Heard Any Good Sermons Lately? Every Sunday we hear Jesus Christ proclaimed in solid biblical preaching. Test drive one of our sermons at www.newcovpca.org

IN Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

r u o Y p e e K o t e v l Reso

s n o i t u l o s Re ear This Y

Before the last notes of “Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last noise maker goes silent, chances are you’ll be suckered into making another New Year’s resolution that will also fade as fast.

Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit overnight is basically unrealistic. Studies have shown that just over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps or realistic approaches to achievement. Dan Griffin, who is manager of Oxford Athletic Club and American College of Sports Medicine certified, said people need to train in a way that keeps them from burning out or becoming discouraged. “There is such a thing as oversophistication of a workout,” Griffin said. “You take someone who hasn’t been working out and you give them a training program that’s more advanced than what they need. Our personal trainers give people programs that are meant to give results and keep them coming back. It’s not what works the best; it’s one they keep doing. If they’re still working out six months from now, that’s a success. If they lose their enthusiasm or 38 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Pursuing a healthier are burned out, you “There’s always a surge lifestyle is always a good did something in new memberships and idea, and while many wrong setting up new inquiries, and there’s people make it their their program.” New Year’s resolution Griffin said that a surge in usage by regular to get back in shape, after New Year’s members as people experts agree that there are always rededicate themselves to any health program more inquires for should be focused on health clubs to getting in better shape...” progressive, attainable address, but there’s —Dan Griffin and realistic goals. also a resurgence of However, it’s also a great current members idea not to overindulge who rededicate themselves to their during the holidays in aerobic regime. the first place. “There’s always Gaining 10 pounds a surge in new after partying for a memberships and month, grazing cookies new inquiries, and there’s a surge in usage at the office and having extra desserts at by regular members as people rededicate Grandma’s is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes themselves to getting in better shape,” he said. at the gym every day for two weeks to negate “Industry-wide, health clubs do 30 percent those calories. While it’s a cliché, moderation is better as far as new memberships across the still the key to a balanced lifestyle, and you’ll be board after the holidays. There are more phone doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray calls, more tours, and more inquiries.” or second glass of wine in the first place.

Woodland Hills

IN Woodland Hills | INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Many adult children of aging parents know how difficult it can be to talk with their loved ones. Research reveals that that the major communication obstacle stems from the continuation of the parent-child role that emerged in childhood. “It’s the continuation of this role that makes the discussion of sensitive issues difficult,” states Jake Harwood, Ph.D., author of Understanding Communication and Aging. “But as parents age, adult children find that they need to make difficult decisions for their loved ones and communicating about these topics before a crisis occurs, can help make these decisions easier for both the parent and the adult children.” Following are scenarios of common senior topics such as health changes, driving, and moving from the home into a long term care community that may help children of older adults know what to say. Your 70-year-old widowed mother has just been diagnosed with macular degeneration, a disease that causes deterioration of eyesight. How do you begin a conversation with her about the ramifications this disease will have on her daily life? Many seniors in this situation might begin the conversation with the family themselves. If not, then it would be good to think about her personal circumstances as the important areas to address. Try to resolve one issue at a time. Your mom would likely be receptive to a conversation that begins, “Let’s figure out a plan for how you can get around town if you no longer feel safe driving.”

Discover The Juniper Village Difference!

A neighbor of your 83-year-old dad has called to tell you he saw your father back his car into a light pole. What do you say? If the damage is visible, you could ask, “Hey Dad, what happened to the car?” Use this as an opportunity to go for a drive with your parent. Even a short drive would help you gauge your parent’s skills and deficits. If you’re concerned that dad is unsafe on the roads, make safety your focus with comments like, “Dad, I’m worried that you’re no longer safe on the roads and that others could be at risk.” Your loved one may voluntarily agree to stop driving. If not, schedule an appointment with your physician and share your concerns. Physicians can contact the state and have his license revoked if need be. Remember the safety of your loved one as well as innocent others may be at stake.

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Wellspring Memory Impairment Care

You find that your 77-year-old mother’s house is often in disarray when you visit. You believe it’s time for her to make a change in her living arrangement and consider moving to a senior living or assisted living community.What do you say? The most difficult topic for adult children to discuss with their aging parents is that they need to leave their home. Approach your mother or loved one with a sense of working together to find a solution rather than telling them what to do. Concentrate on the daily benefits of no longer having to worry about cooking, cleaning and laundry. Discuss how moving to a community will help keep them healthier longer. And, how moving to an assisted living community will provide you and your siblings with piece of mind knowing that they will receive care 24 hours a day and immediate assistance should a medical emergency occur. Encourage them to tour the communities with you and help with the selection. Assisted living communities are active, happy places that can bring a quality of life to their golden years.

Spacious studios, suites and one-bedroom apartments available On-site nursing staff and 24 hour assistance with daily care needs Structured activities and programs seven days a week Delicious meals and snacks daily Housekeeping and laundry services Conveniently located in Forest Hills For more information or to schedule your personal tour, contact Juniper Village at (412) 244-9901 today!

Or visit us on the web at www.junipercommunities.com

Juniper Village at Forest Hills encourages families to talk with their parents before a crisis occurs and can help families with these and other difficult subjects. Juniper Village offers senior living, assisted living and Wellspring memory impairment care. Families interested in learning more about the community are invited to contact Bonnie Prisk, their Director of Community Relations for a personal tour and free lunch. They are located at 107 Fall Run Road, just off of Ardmore Boulevard in Forest Hills. Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

C HURCHES S ERVING W OODLAND H ILLS All Saints Anglican Episcopal Church 412.793.0270

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.793.1394

Muhleman Memorial Methodist Church 412.823.5170

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church 412.242.3374

Beulah Presbyterian Church 412.242.4570

Hebron United Presbyterian Church 412.371.2307

New Hope Baptist Church 412.271.8998

St. Colman Catholic Church 412.283.2564

Calvary United Church of Christ 412.823.4347

Hope Lutheran Church of Forest Hills 412.242.4476

New Vision Community Church 412.241.6160

St. James Episcopal Church 412.242.2300

Christ Lutheran Church and School 412.271.7173

Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.271.1995

Parkway Jewish Center 412.823.4338

St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church 412.824.0246

Electric Heights United Methodist Church 412.824.3303

Laketon Heights United Methodist 412.241.9170

Penn Hills Baptist Church 412.793.6640

St. John Fisher 412.241.4722

Living Spirit Ministry 412.351.1802

Penn Hills Free Methodist Church 412.793.7263

St. Maurice Roman Catholic Church 412.271.0809

Lutheran Church of Forest Hills 412.242.4476

Presbyterian Church of America 412.793.7117

St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church 412.271.9300

Madonna del Castello Church 412.271.5666

Presentation of Christ Greek Orthodox Church 412.824.9188

Trinity Tower United Methodist 412.793.9000

First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood 412.241.4613

McMasters United Methodist Church 412.823.1988

Protestant Reformed Fellowship 412.371.2299

Universal United Presbyterian Church 412.793.1355

Mount Hope Community Church 412.793.0227

Resurrection Baptist Church 412.271.7355

Word of God Catholic Church 412.241.1372

Forest Hills Presbyterian Church 412.241.1647

Mount Olive Baptist Church 412.271.0303

Sri Venkateswara Temple 412.373.3380

Word & Worship Church 412.824.1616

Good Shepherd Catholic Parish 412.271.1515

Mount Olive Church of God in Christ 412.361.0503

SS. Peter & Paul Byzantine Church 412.466.3578

Zion Lutheran Church 412.242.2626

Emmanuel Lutheran Church 412.824.4525 Epiphany Lutheran Church 412.241.1313 Faith Bible Baptist Church 412.825.7450

P AROCHIAL E LEMENTARY S CHOOLS Faith Christian School Wilkins Twp. 412.825.7455

St. Bernadette Monroeville 412.372.7255

St. Bartholomew Penn Hills 412.242.2511

St. Joseph Verona 412.828.7213

Good Shepherd Braddock 412.271.2492

North American Martyrs Monroeville 412.373.0889

Word of God Swissvale 412.371.8587

St. James Wilkinsburg 412.242.3515

St. Maurice Forest Hills 412.351.5403

St. Irenaeus Oakmont 412.828.8444

St. John the Baptist Plum 412.793.0555

We are interested in highlighting your church! If you are a member of the Clergy from this area and would like to contribute an inspirational message that all of our readers might enjoy, please contact Marybeth Jeffries, Managing Editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.

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Woodland Hills

WINTER

2010

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Woodland Hills | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

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