IN West Jefferson Hills

School & Borough News Page 31

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Special Section: Education Top five classroom trends and jobs of the future Page 15

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Power of Attorney

Sponsored Content

C O V E L L I L AW O F F I C E S , P. C .

What You Need to Know M

ention the words 'Power of Attorney' to anyone over the age of 65, and you may find yourself being clobbered with the nearest blunt object. But in truth, a power of attorney is empowering for older individuals, especially ones who wish to remain in their own homes. It puts them in the driver seat by allowing them to set limits and choose options as to various types of power of attorney that are right for their particular situation.

Powers of Attorney (POAs) can largely be divided into two groups - documents that convey power to make medical care decisions, and documents that convey power to make financial decisions. In many cases, a POA may cover both.

The important thing to remember is that every situation is unique, and a POA can be customized to each family's particular needs. The optimal time to have one prepared is before the crisis strikes.

With a POA, the individual whom the document protects is actually the one who is granting the power to someone else - to act for them in the event of catastrophic circumstances. Once an individual becomes incapacitated through stroke, accident, dementia or other causes - then creating a POA is no longer a possible option. At that point, a family must petition the court for a guardianship, which can be an expensive and lengthy process, requiring medical testimony, with the outcome resting in the hands of a judge. Even more troubling, once a guardianship has been established, the courts oversee all the decisions of the guardians through legal accountings, placing the power to make decisions for loved ones ultimately in the hands of the court system.

The options for a POA are as numerous as the individuals seeking them. Some documents called springing POAs are so named because they are dormant but, 'spring into action' when certain predetermined circumstances arise. Some POAs are described as

being “durable” - because they withstand incapacity and disability.

According to the World Health Organization, dementia is one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people worldwide, and the longer you live, the greater your chances of developing it. Although most people suffering from dementia are often quite capable of feeding and clothing themselves and housekeeping, they may develop cognitive dysfunctions that prevent them from balancing their checkbook or even making sound decisions regarding their health care. By having the proper type of POA in place, aging individuals can remain in their homes with a trusted and designated person to complete financial transactions - such as bill paying and making major purchases and health decisions.

The key element to establishing a POA is trust.

Although aging parents may trust their child, often even the suggestion of a POA may draw the ire of an older person. For this reason, it is imperative to have the aging parent talk directly with an attorney.

Oftentimes, a disinterested third party authority figure can have much greater success in reasoning with the client, than their own family. Our attorneys deal with POAs every day, which gives them a greater degree of credibility when talking with the client and their family. The attorney is also legally bound to act in the best interest of the client, and protect them from exploitation. For this reason, a certain amount of trust is inherent in the attorney client relationship.

The best advice when it comes to establishing a POA, is to have it drawn up before you need it, and to talk to a trusted attorney.

This Industry Insight was written by Joe Covelli, owner of “Elder Law Care.”

Joe Covelli is an award-winning attorney with over 30 years of experience and the proprietor of Covelli Law Offices in Jefferson Hills. For more information on Power of Attorney & Elder Law Care contact Joe Covelli at 412.653.5000, or please visit the website Covellilaw.com.

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West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 1

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Contents fall

•

2 013

Turn Your CommuniTY inTo a Career Join in Community magazines’ Team of Professional Sales reps something

fresh for everyone

Overbrooke Point offers new conce e in senior living pt

see page 14

Headline Page 34

Headline Page 47

Special Section: Education Page 23

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Dynamic Duo:

Back to

parks and recreation Butch Truitt, South Fayette's new manager Ryan Eggleston director (right), with township

School!

School and Township News Page 29 Special Section: Education Page 7

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Special Section: Education Page 6

School News Page 16

Fall 2013 icmags.com

IN Community Magazines is seeking an energetic salesperson to sell print advertising in your area.

Full-time is preferred, but part-time will be considered.

Please contact our General Sales Manager, Tamara Myers, at t.myers@icmags.com for more information.

on the cover Members of the West Jefferson Hills robust athletics and band programs.

Front Row (left to right): Victoria Cotter, Marie Miller, Alexis Yanief, Brianne Stadelman, Samantha Moss and Caitlyn Zay Back Row (left to right): Anthony Campano, Luke Good, Chase Winovich, Craig Bourgeois (Mascot), Alexandra German, Matthew Bourgeois and Anna Stedding.

departments 4 6 28

From the Publisher IN the Loop IN Person

32 48 56

School Borough News INCognito

features 15 Special Section: Education Top five classroom trends; jobs of the future; choosing the right college; paying for college.

sponsored content 1 Covelli Law Offices 10 South Hills Gastroenterology 13 Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc.

14 Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists 27 Jefferson Hills Manor 30 NovaCare Rehabilitation

IN Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Jefferson Hills area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 3

FROM THE

PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Talerico j.talerico@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] m.berton@icmags.com Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@icmags.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti l.vighetti@icmags.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Debbie Mountain d.mountain@icmags.com DESIGN DIRECTOR Michael Miller DESIGNERS Cassie Brkich Jim Paladino Anna Buzzelli Melissa St. Giles Sharon Cobb Tamara Tylenda

My wife, Lisa, and I with our three sons (l to r): Jordan, Brenden and Tyler, on the beach in Ocean City, Maryland.

In a few months, we will celebrate IN Community Magazines’ 10th anniversary! Our first magazine—IN Monroeville—premiered in 2004, and we’ve since grown to more than 35 publications, serving communities north, east, south and west of Pittsburgh, as well as our quarterly Designing Home Lifestyles magazine. Earlier this year, we added a new magazine to our publishing family—Faith Pittsburgh—that has received tremendous response from readers.

As we enter our next decade in publishing, we thought it fitting to give IN Community Magazines a new look (see far right) to reflect our mission to become a top source of information in your community.

This issue, we welcome editorial director, Julie Talerico, who has been in publishing for nearly 30 years, including the past 10 years as editor-in-chief of Pittsburgh Magazine. We are excited to have her lead us through our next growth stage, producing and developing high-quality publications.

Over the years, our school and township partners have been a vital part of IN Community, and we thank you for your support. We also thank our advertisers, many who have been with us from the beginning.

As we head into fall and our kids and teenagers start back to school and college, we hope you’ll take time to read this publication. We welcome your feedback!

Contributing Writers Jonathan Barnes Heather Holtschlag Jennifer Brozak Leigh Lyons Earl Bugaile Joanne Naser Matt Fascetti Melanie Paulick Tracy Fedkoe Judith Schardt Brenda Haines-Cosola Marilyn Wempa Elvira Hoff

SUMMER 2013

Soaring with the Eagles!

Local Scout Achieves Scouting’s Highest Honor

School & Borough News

Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School

Visit the Garden Adjacent to the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Tell Us What You Think!

We’d like to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community. If you have suggestions, please contact Pamela Palongue (p.palongue@icmags.com) if you are in the North and East communities or Mark Berton (m.berton@icmags.com) if you are in the South and West communities. Please include your name, phone number and community magazine for which you are submitting the idea.

Thanks in advance for your contributions!

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Page 31

Special Section: Education Top five classroom trends and jobs of the future

To Advertise

As the largest magazine publisher in Western Pennsylvania, IN Community Magazines are direct mailed to more than 518,000 households, reaching 1.15 million readers. If you'd like to partner with us, please contact our Office Manager Leo Vighetti at: 724.942.0940 or l.vighetti@icmags.com.

Page 15

Contributing Photographers Ben Chronister Kathleen Rudolph Ginni Klein Jennifer Steenson Len Pancoast Gary Yon Primetime Shots Gary Zak GENERAL SALES MANAGER Tamara Myers t.myers@icmags.com SALES MANAGER Brian McKee b.mckee@icmags.com ADVERTISING SALES Sophia Alfaras Aimee Nicolia Pamela Arder Connie McDaniel Nikki Capezio-Watson Gabriel Negri Dan DeCesare Vincent Sabatini Julie Graff Michael Silvert Holly Hicks-Opperman RJ Vighetti Laurie Holding ICM Printing Sales Manager Tom Poljak ©2013 by IN Community Magazines.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any part of this publication is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:

IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724/942-0940; Fax: 724/942-0968 icmags.com Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 5

in the

Loop What’s news in West Jefferson Hills

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Bishop Zubik Appoints St. Thomas a’ Becket member as Chief Diocesan Financial Officer

Bishop David A. Zubik has appointed Bruno A. Bonacchi as the new Chief Financial Officer of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, effective January 1, 2014.

Bonacchi, formerly head of Corporate Strategy and Development at Mellon Financial Corporation, succeeds Frederick P. O’Brien who has served as Chief Financial Officer of the Diocese since March, 2002 and has announced his retirement at the end of this year.

His appointment is for a renewable term of five years as required by the Code of Canon Law. Bonacchi is a member of St. Thomas A’ Becket parish, Jefferson Hills, where he is chairman of the parish Finance Council. He is also an adjunct professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville.

With a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science in Industrial Administration from Carnegie Mellon University, he has worked in a number of positions with Mellon Financial Corporation since the mid-1980s. He had previously worked for PNC Bank.

In expressing his gratitude for all O’Brien has done for the Church of Pittsburgh and beyond, Bishop Zubik noted that during his 11 years with the Diocese, “Mr. O’Brien has initiated significant improvements to the financial policies and procedures of the diocese and has raised to the highest level our fiscal life as a diocese.”

A member of St. Joseph Parish in O’Hara Township, Mr. O’Brien was honored in May with the papal honor, the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice cross, the highest lay award for distinguished service to the Church.

For the last 12 years he has served as president of the board for McGuire Memorial Home. He was appointed a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Gregory the Great by Pope John Paul II in 2003.

Bishop Zubik also announced that Deacon Kevin L. Lander has been appointed Associate General Secretary and will join the diocesan General Secretariat on September 1st.

He will assist Father Ronald P. Lengwin, Vicar General and General Secretary, and join fellow Associate General Secretaries Mrs. Helene E. Paharik and retired Superior Court Judge Maureen Lally-Green. Judge

Lally-Green has reduced her duties to parttime effective July 1.

Ordained a deacon in 2011, Deacon Lander graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Clarion University. He has served as a Vice President at Mellon Bank and as a senior vice president of U.S. Bancorp.

Deacon Lander serves at Saint Margaret Parish in Green Tree. He has been an Episcopal Master of Ceremonies for the Department for Worship.

TJ Arts is proud to present its fourth annual Sweet Sweet Jazz

Mark your calendars for Sunday, Oct. 13, 2013 at 7 p.m. in the Thomas Jefferson High School Auditorium for the fourth annual Sweet Sweet Jazz, hosted by Tony Modwod, president and founder of the Pittsburgh Jazz Society.

Several musical acts including the TJ Alumni Jazz Band, directed and arranged

by Ray DeFade; the Benny Benack Band, directed and arranged by Benny Benack II; the TJHS Jazz Bands, directed by Jim Mirabella; and featuring Eric DeFade, Max Leake and Benny Benack, II. Vocalists include Kevin Kindlin and Dorette DeFade Weld.

Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased at the door or by calling 412.655.0747.

Proceeds will support scholarships and arts programs for West Jefferson Hills School District students.

TJ Arts Announces Scholarship, Award & Grant Recipients

On Thursday, May 30, at the TJ Theatre Banquet, TJ Arts presented two scholarships and one award. The Founders’ Award was presented to Carmen LoPresti; this $500 award is bestowed upon a most deserving senior International Thespian Society student who has been a leader in the arts at TJ. At the same banquet TJ Arts awarded two Kathy Cecotti Memorial Scholarships to senior twins, Bryce Churilla and Travis Churilla; these $500 scholarships are presented to theatre students who best emulate the qualities embodied by Kathy Cecotti, a former theatre teacher who tragically died of brain cancer.

Throughout the month of June, the organization’s STArts Program awarded 10 grants to students grades K–12. The grants ranged from $250-$600 for the year, and allowed students of financial need and artistic promise to study a performance art form of their choice.

TJ Arts also has partially sponsored senior Jamie Pasquinelli to attend the Sound of America Concert Tour, where she will be traveling and performing in more than five European countries.

Pleasant Hills Electronic Recycling Event

Drop off items at the Pleasant Hills Municipal Building rear basement garage on October 7 through October 11, from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Items being recycled include anything computer or electronic related, such as monitors, microwaves, telephones, radios and CBs, electric drills, irons and curling irons, blow dryers and electric skillets.

Televisions cannot be accepted at this time. If you should have any questions, please call the Borough Office at 412.655.3300.

Free Flu Vaccinations Available

Free flu vaccines will be available Tuesday, October 15, from 2-4 p.m., in the Conference Room, 1st Floor, of the Pleasant Hills Municipal Building, 410 East Bruceton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.

The vaccines are sponsored by Mon River Fleet in conjunction with UPMC McKeesport Hospital and administered by Baldwin EMS. You must be 18 years of age or older to receive the vaccine.

Please register for your vaccine with Sue or Rose at Baldwin EMS, 412.884.0666. You can also inquire about Home Visit Flu Vaccines.

Smith to host 7th annual senior fair in October

State Senator Matt Smith announced that he will hold the 7th Annual Senior Fair in October for constituents.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Thursday, October 3, at The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon, 1500 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon.

Over 100 exhibitors will provide information on services, products, and programs specifically geared to older adults. Area seniors will be able to speak with representatives from federal, state and local agencies and receive information including applications for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program and the state’s prescription Continued on page 8

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 7

in the

Loop

programs, PACE and PACENET. Light refreshments will be provided along with entertainment and educational demonstrations.

“We provide a one-stop-shop for seniors to receive assistance from government agencies, organizations, and businesses that cater to seniors,” Smith said. “This also provides an invaluable opportunity for me to interact with local seniors directly and hear their thoughts and concerns.”

Free health screenings and seasonal influenza immunizations will be available for individuals 65 and older as they have in past years. Individuals interested in the flu shot,

8 724.942.0940 to advertise | West Jefferson Hills

should bring their Medicare or supplemental insurance card.

“Each year we are able to provide much needed information and flu shots to more and more seniors,” said Smith. “We can’t forget that face-to-face contact and information is still very important to older adults who may not have internet access and/or any other way to learn about valuable programs.”

Smith represents portions of Allegheny County including the airport corridor, Sewickley Valley, and much of the South Hills as well as Peters Township in Washington County. More information is available through Smith’s website, www.SenatorMattSmith.com.

Pleasant Hills Lions Club News

The Annual Lions Club Halloween Parade is scheduled for Tuesday, October 29, beginning at 7 p.m.

Participants should arrive at Audrey Drive next to the Pleasant Hills Presbyterian Church promptly at 6:30 p.m.

Trick or Treat is scheduled for Thursday, October 31st from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Lions Club of Pleasant Hills is an integral part of the community and Lions Clubs International. They were chartered

December 18, 1940, and have enjoyed a continuous period of service to Lionism and the community since that time.

The Lions Club of Pleasant Hills’ current membership averages around 33 members, representing the professional, business and retired segment of the community. ■

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space Pittsburgh’s premier guide to stylish living, sophisticated create your design and the best resources in Pittsburgh and surrounding regions. buys l aunc hi ng fir s t i s s ue De c e mbe r 2013 wise

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Health

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Capsule Endoscopy for Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleeding

By Shashi Kumar, MD Obscure GI bleeding (OGIB) is defined as occult or overt bleeding of unknown origin that persists or recurs after an initial negative endoscopic examination including colonoscopy and gastroscopy. Angiodysplasia of the small bowel accounts for approximately 30 to 40% of OGIB and is the most common source in older patients.

Newer endoscopic evaluation techniques for the small bowel include video capsule endoscopy (VCE) and deep enteroscopy (single or double balloon).

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) provides direct visualization of the GI tract (small bowel mucosa) but lacks therapeutic interventions. It transmits wireless images from a disposable capsule to a data recorder worn by the patient. The systems consist of three components: 1. Capsule endoscope 2. A sensing system 3. Personal computer workstation with software that reviews images

The given capsule is a disposable plastic capsule (Pillcam SB) that weighs 3.7 gm, measures 11 mm in diameter and 26 mm in length. The capsule takes 75,000 to 80,000 pictures as it passes through the digestive tract.

The Capsule endoscopy can be performed in an ambulatory or hospital setting. Patients need to be on a clear liquid diet for at least 12 to 24 hours before the study.

Indications:

• The Capsule endoscopy is approved for the visualization of small bowel mucosa in adults and children ages 10 years and up.

• Obscure GI bleeding – including iron

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• Suspected Crohn’s Disease.

• Suspected small bowel tumors and

surveillance in patients with polyposis syndromes.

• The diagnosis of Celiac disease and its

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have been elusive. Small bowel follow-through enteroclysis, push enteroscopy and CT enteroclysis studies have shown the majority of patients with known Crohn’s disease estimated the sensitivity and specificity of Capsule endoscopy to be 90 and 100% respectively.

A drawback of the technique is the lack of validated criteria for the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease and the inability to obtain biopsy specimens.

Small Bowel Tumors

The small bowel is the site of approximately 1 to 3% of all gastrointestinal neoplasm. Capsule endoscopy allows painless endoscopic imaging of the entire small bowel and is superior over other modalities such as the push enteroscopy, abdominal CT, small bowel follow-through and MRI in detecting small bowel lesions.

Capsule endoscopy should be the first choice for diagnostic investigation in patients suspected to have small bowel tumors and if necessary, followed by a single or double balloon enteroscopy for Contraindications: • Patients with known or histopathological confirmation of the diagnosis and suspected GI obstruction, endoscopy therapy. strictures or fistulas.

Celiac Disease • Patients with cardiac VCE may be of value in the diagnosis of celiac pacemakers or other disease patients with a positive TTGA antibody and implanted electro- who are unable or unwilling to undergo endoscopy. medical devices.

Another group of patients who appear to be ideal candidates for a Capsule endoscopy are patients Role of Capsule Endoscopy: Obscure who fail to respond to a gluten-free diet or develop alarming symptoms while on the diet.

GI Bleeding For obscure bleeding Conclusion (OGIB), capsule endoscopy VCE is the first line test for the visualization of has superior results compared the mucosa of the small intestine. It is a valuable to radiologic studies, which tool to diagnose OGIB when upper and lower are relatively insensitive. endoscopy results are negative.

The re-bleeding rate after a Benefits of VCE include the non-invasive nature negative VCE is generally low, of test, patient acceptance, safety and diagnostic approximately 6 to 11%. yield. Limitations of VCE include inability to Crohn’s Disease

VCE is useful in the evaluation of the small intestine. Patients with the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease

provide therapy to the precise location of a lesion, false positive results and a potential for missed lesions. The primary risk of VCE is the retention of the capsule at approximately 1.4% which can be managed by either endoscopy or surgery.

References: Technology Status Evaluation Report: wireless capsule endoscopy, (2006).

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Volume 63, No. 4, Page 359.

The role of endoscopy in the management of obscure GI bleeding, (2010).

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Volume 72, No. 3, Page 471.

This Industry Insight was submitted by: South Hills Gastroenterology Associates.

This article was written by Dr. Shashi Kumar, M.D. 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite G-10, Clairton, PA 15025 / 412.469.5914

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West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 11

About the:

Promoting Local Business Development within the West Jefferson Hills Community

The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1973, represents the boroughs of West Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills, and Pleasant Hills. The Chamber is a voluntary partnership of business owners and professionals working together to generate a viable local economy. Their professional expertise and economic commitment encompasses their continued collaboration with the West Jefferson Hills School District’s mission for academic excellence, local economic development, and established local businesses. In fact, many of the members are graduates of Thomas Jefferson High School or/and lifelong members of our communities.

Our Mission

The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce promotes local business development and community collaboration and endorses expanding local business in West Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills, and Pleasant Hills.

The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meets monthly. The Chamber currently sponsors a variety of Networking, Business to Business, and Community Appreciation events. During these gatherings Chamber members and business professionals exchange information about their products and services, thus encouraging mutual patronage among local business professionals and merchants.

Member Events and Services

The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce invites local business owners, business professionals, and Chamber members to avail themselves of our events and services: • Complimentary Website Promotion • Pizza on the Patio/Picnic on the Porch • Business Development Seminars • Annual Christmas Dinner • Fall and Spring Breakfast Round Tables • Lunch Time Tours • Veteran’s Day Recognition • Thomas Jefferson High School FBLA • Beautification Award Program Career Event Please call 412.855.8276 for additional information on the Chamber’s upcoming events or to request membership information.

The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce supports academic success through their established Education Award. This monetary allowance is granted to a Thomas Jefferson High School Senior pursuing a post-secondary education, who demonstrates educational achievement and selfless community service.

In addition, Eastman Chemical presents a monetary award to an outstanding student directly entering the world of work from Steel Center. This award is intended to provide some start money to allow the young adult to engage in their chosen line of work.

To become a member:

• Download the form from the website, www.wjhchamber.com or call for one to be sent to

your business/company • Fill it out • Send it with dues to: West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce P.O. 18061 Pittsburgh, PA 15236 412.855.8276

www.wjhchamber.com 12 724.942.0940 to advertise | West Jefferson Hills

Board of Directors and Officers President Joseph Covelli, Esq. Covelli Law Offices Vice-President JoAnn Horgos First National Bank Treasurer Shauna D'Alessandro CPA Publicity Secretary Suzanne Mackulin All Pittsburgh Real Estate Recording Secretary Louise Biddle West Elizabeth Council Christopher Woods Jefferson Financial Group B.J. Guinn Eastman Chemical Company Kevin Rice Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School Mary Beth Lowery Jefferson Regional Medical Center Rosann Cusumano Elinsky, AAI, LUTCF Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. Dr. Michael A. Panza West Jefferson School District Richard Roberts Community College of Allegheny County, South Robert Marlow Prints Charming Designs

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Auto Insurance

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hile there are minimum legal requirements for auto coverage, this minimal coverage may not get you off the hook in many cases should you actually be involved in an accident. The state's goal is to make the required insurance affordable, but in many cases this results in minimum coverage that is not adequate for most people to drive on the road and meet their true financial obligations. Even limits that are several tiers above the minimum may not be adequate for some drivers, because once those limits are exhausted, any remaining damages must be paid out of pocket.

Bankruptcy is the first thought that comes to the mind of some, but bankruptcy does not come without problems. Bankruptcy will probably hurt or even eliminate your chances of getting credit in the future; even if credit can be obtained, it will cost you a lot more and come with conditions. In addition, many employment background checks include a credit check. Also, bankruptcy is not always an available option, especially if you have assets or own property. Because the costs and lost opportunities that result from bankruptcy are significant, it's not an option most people want to or should choose. For that reason, this article discusses your obligations and how to minimize your risk of ever filing for bankruptcy, losing your home, or paying for damages that could be covered by higher liability limits.

Let's look at an example of how coverage applies. Suppose that you have $100,000 of coverage, your car's brakes fail, and you rear-end the car in front of you with very high impact, paralyzing the driver. Do you think $100,000 would be sufficient to pay for a lifetime of medical care and lost wages? Would you settle for that amount if you were paralyzed?

Chances are most would not. Accidents like this can happen to anyone, and planning in advance can help you to avoid serious trouble and serious financial consequences if an accident should occur.

Once your limits have been paid by the insurance company, it becomes your obligation to pay for any further damages. In the example mentioned in the previous paragraph, if the injured party is justified in asking for $3 million, your insurance company would pay the $100,000 for which you are covered and you would then be expected to pay the remaining $2.9 million.

Alternatively, the injured party could take you to court and this could easily cost you hundreds of thousands in legal fees in addition to any judgment granted to the plaintiff. Filing for bankruptcy would also be an option, or, if you have assets, you would have to pay what you have and possibly lose everything. Your wages also may be garnished to pay any judgment.

In any case, not having adequate liability let alone minimum limits set by the state are not really a solution. Premiums in most cases are not significantly more, and also an umbrella policy available in increments of a million would cover liability for all the cars in your household for one low premium. With such options available, why risk damaging your future with a bankruptcy or, worse yet, losing everything you own because you did not plan in advance to set up coverages that would protect you? It does not cost you anything to discuss the options with your agent. You may also wish to consult with your attorney or a personal injury attorney who can point out the importance of making sure you properly address your liability limits.

Cusumano Insurance, a local family-owned business, has been servicing the Pittsburgh area since 1958. The agency represents several insurance companies offering various options for your personal and business insurance needs. Their experienced staff are creative problem solvers who help find the suitable insurance companies, products and discounts to meet your specific needs. Give them a call today for a free insurance review.

This Industry Insight was provided by: Joann Cusumano Sciulli, AAI Agency Principal

Rosann Cusumano Elinsky, AAI, LUTCF Agency Principal

Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. • 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills, PA 15236 West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 13

InDUStRY InSIGHt

Your Health

SPonSoReD Content

PINK IS ALWAYS “IN” AT

JEFFERSON HILLS SURGICAL SPECIALISTS The month of October is an exciting month that celebrates the advances made in the treatment of breast cancer. Cure rates for early stage breast cancer are over 90 percent. Pink ribbons, hats, shoes and more are a daily reminder that there is much support for this cancer which affects one in eight women over the course of their lifetime. Despite all the positives, when a woman is faced with the reality of a breast cancer diagnosis, her thoughts often turn fearful: How am I going to get through all of this? Where can I turn? Am I going to live or die?

Fortunately, having a comprehensive breast program close to home can help ease that anxiety tremendously. Led by Dr. Mark Gannon of Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists, the breast program provides a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, well-coordinated approach for the care of breast health and breast cancer patients. The emphasis is on moving women (and sometimes men) through their diagnostic imaging, biopsy, surgery and further treatments as efficiently as possible.

“Our program prides itself on how quickly we can have patients seen in our office for surgical consultation, sometimes even the same day,” said Dr. Gannon. “We are in constant communication with specialists in the program including diagnostic imaging, medical oncology, radiation oncology and plastic surgery. Every effort is made

to streamline the care and appointments needed.”

Drawing on his 22 years of extensive breast surgery experience, Dr. Gannon is also the lead breast surgeon for the program utilizing the latest surgical techniques for sentinel node biopsy, breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy with immediate reconstruction in conjunction with a plastic surgeon. At the time of the initial surgical consultation, women are given a thorough explanation of their options and surgical recommendations by Dr. Gannon who allows plenty of time for questions to be answered. For most patients, the surgery is scheduled as quickly as possible, usually within one to two weeks.

A key part of the efficiency of the comprehensive breast program is the nurse navigator, Brenda Cline, RN, MSN. Brenda is nationally certified as a breast patient navigator. She meets patients at the time of biopsy and then provides constant support and education as they go through their diagnosis and treatment, following them for a year or more. Brenda sees the patient with the surgeon at the initial consultation, on the day of surgery and at follow-up visits. She also expedites testing and appointments, assesses barriers to treatment such as insurance issues, and is in close communication with all the specialists involved in the patient’s care.

“Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is never easy,” said Brenda. “But if we can simplify this complicated process, most patients are very pleased and grateful.”

To inquire about the Comprehensive Breast Program, contact Brenda Cline, RN, MSN at 412-469-5989. For a surgical consultation at Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists, please call 412-469-7110.

This Industry Insight highlights one specialty area of Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists.

Brenda Cline, RN, MSN, CBPN-IC

Mark P. Gannon, MD

Certified Breast Patient Navigator for Imaging and Cancer Care; Member, Oncology Nursing Society; Professional Member, National Consortium of Breast Centers

Medical Director, Comprehensive Breast Program; Fellow, American College of Surgeons; Member, American Society of Breast Surgeons

Main Office 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 170 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025

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Bethel Park 1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102

charlerOi 1200 McKean Avenue, Suite 107 Charleroi, PA 15022

BrentwOOd 3720 Brownsville Road Pittsburgh, PA 15227

SPeerS 17 Arentzen Boulevard, Suite 102 Charleroi, PA 15022

E

EDUCATION WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

fall

20 13

W

hen it comes to education, too much is never enough. And in a world where job competition is fierce, parents believe the more educated their child is, the better their chances of getting that rewarding, high-salaried position that will allow them to grow as a professional, support a family and pad their 401(k).

But ask any high school junior what they plan on majoring in, and you’re almost guaranteed to be met with a blank stare.

Traditional college is a smart choice, but for today’s students, other options are available that do not require a degree. The job market indicates an increasing demand for skilled trades, non-degreed and service professionals which is quickly outpacing those who can deliver it.

In this special section, we take a look at college preparation — from choosing the right preschool to prepping for SATs, as well as some alternatives to college that promise a bright future without the need for a four-year degree.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 15

5

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

Top Education Trends O

ne thing is for sure; school is not what it used to be. No longer are college students expected to sit for long periods of time in one classroom, listening to one professor while feverishly taking notes. Today, students have a wide array of schooling options, study tools and reference materials that make it easier to get the grade. Among these latest trends are:

1|

Social Media: Social media has given students access to a whole new way of communicating and learning. In today’s classrooms, professors are blogging, maintaining Twitter and Facebook accounts and even communicating with students through these mediums. Students also have access to YouTube and may even be required to produce and post videos as a part of their learning curriculum.

Students may find it helpful to use social media techniques to find employment since many sites, such as LinkedIn, give job seekers the venue to create resumes and profiles that are searchable by potential employers. Graduates can also begin networking with professionals in their desired field.

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2|

Online Learning: No longer is traveling to a school building and sitting at a desk beside 25 other students part of school requirements. Students who want to pursue chosen fields of study can learn from home and study at their own pace laptop style. In fact, according to the Bacon Survey Research Group, the number of students enrolled in at least one online course increased for the ninth straight year. The study reports that the number of students taking online courses has surpassed six million and nearly one-third of all students in higher education are taking at least one online course. Some universities such as the University of CaliforniaBerkeley, Johns Hopkins University and Stanford, even offer free online

courses, a trend that is expected to continue in coming years.

3|

Massive Open Online Course: Massive open online course, or MOOC, is a relatively new way for students to learn. MOOC is a course that is offered exclusively online to provide large interactive participation and open access through the Internet.

MOOCs offer all of the traditional types of course materials, but also provide interactive user forums that help build communities among students and teachers and teaching assistants. These free courses only require the use of a computer and an Internet connection. As an extra incentive, there is some discussion about awarding official college credits to students who take these

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

courses, which continue to grow in popularity around the globe, as they are offered in nearly 200 countries in 44 different languages and have more than 4,500 testing centers.

4|

Better Job Market: Students graduating now may enter a better job market than students from previous years. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, companies expect to hire 9 percent more 2012 graduates than in 2011. And, students who have studied in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) have even greater odds of landing a job.

5|

Game-Based Learning: While still a new concept for both students and teachers alike, game-based learning, or GBL, is a method of learning that is growing in popularity and has proven to be

an effective method of teaching.

These games are designed exclusively to provide educational value to students in any type of educational environment. They are designed to teach students about certain subjects, reinforce growth and development, encourage the development of new skills, or understand an event that took place in history. GBL methods include boards, cards and video games and incorporate methods like learning simulations with both serious

games and video games into the classroom. In addition, this method offers both gameplay and subject matter so that students can easily remember what they have learned and get ready to apply it in the real world. Although this method is still in its infancy, it is expected to expand in growth in the coming years.

The way we learn is changing and it is broadening our horizons, our skills and our possibilities.

The number of students taking online courses has surpassed

six million

and nearly one-third of all students in higher education are taking at least one online course.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 17

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

Jobs

W

of the

Future

hile a college degree does garner some credibility and an advantage in finding a well-paying job, there has been an increase in demand for people who have the right skills, and not necessarily a degree, in certain industries.

According to a recent story featured in Forbes magazine, jobs of the future are comparably “lowskilled,� meaning they still require a lot of all-around intelligence to succeed, but not a degree.

For example, carpentry has experienced a 56 percent growth, and medical secretaries have seen an increase of 41 percent in recent years.

Other top jobs include web developers, which has a median salary of more than $75,000 a year and has risen in popularity among those who are self-taught or who have only a minimal amount of college training. In fact, the demand for people in this field is so great that

companies do not view it as a disadvantage if the person does not have a college degree, particularly the smaller start-up companies.

Plumbers can make more than $46,000, a profession that is expected to grow 26 percent in the next few years. Paralegal assistants, electricians and industrial machine repairers are also professions that can expect an annual salary of more than $46,000. Administrative executive assistants could see a salary of more than $34,000. Bookkeepers and pest control specialists can earn more than $30,000, while receptionists and skin care specialists may be paid more than $25,000.

A possible reason for this recent upward trend in jobs that do not require a college degree, may be that there is a heavier demand for people who offer actual services and specific skill sets.

Caring for an aging population is one of the reasons that jobs like home health aides and personal care aides

Some in-demand professions that don’t require a four-year degree.

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WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

Carpentry has experienced a growth of

are at the top of the fastest growing jobs list compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, as reported

by CareerCast.com. But right below these two occupations are biomedical engineers, which anticipates a 61 percent growth by 2020.

Jobs such as brickmasons, blockmasons, stonemasons and tile and marble setters, expect to grow at least 60 percent by 2020. Veterinary technicians and technologists are expected to grow in demand by 52 percent. Reinforcing iron and rebar workers will increase by nearly 47 percent, physical therapy assistants by 46 percent, pipelayers and steamfitters by 45 percent, meeting and event planners by 44 percent and diagnostic medical sonographers by 43 percent.

These fields all rank near the top of the list in popularity and expected job growth.

56 percent

Biomedical engineering anticipates growth of

According to Forbes, many of these types of jobs do not require a college education because a person could potentially learn more about them with on-the-job training as opposed to sitting in a college classroom.

Many people who enter "non-degreed" professions are self-taught and begin freelancing with a few clients.

Through word-of-mouth, they are able to grow enough to launch their own business.

For the most part, the trend remains that college graduates still stand to earn more in their lifetimes than nongraduates, as companies will continue to look for the bachelor’s degree on a resume. However, there is a bright future for non-graduates with much potential if they have the desire and motivation to be successful.

61 percent

Physical therapy assistant jobs will increase by

46 percent

Reaching your target audience has never been easier‌or less expensive.

Contact us at 724.942.0940 West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 19

WEST JEFFERSON HILLS

Occupations with the most job growth, 2010 projected 2020 (Numbers in thousands) Employment 2010 National Employment Matrix Title and Code

2010

2020

Change, 2010-20 Number

%

Median Annual Wage, 2010

00-0000

Total, All Occupations

143,068.2

163,537.1

20,468.9

14.3

$33,840

29-1111

Registered Nurses *

2,737.4

3,449.3

711.9

26.0

64,690

41-2031

Retail Salespersons

4,261.6

4,968.4

706.8

16.6

20,670

31-1011

Home Health Aides

1,017.7

1,723.9

706.3

69.4

20,560

39-9021

Personal Care Aides

861.0

1,468.0

607.0

70.5

19,640

43-9061

Office Clerks, General

2,950.7

3,440.2

489.5

16.6

26,610

35-3021

Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food

2,682.1

3,080.1

398.0

14.8

17,950

43-4051

Customer Service Representatives

2,187.3

2,525.6

338.4

15.5

30,460

53-3032

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

1,604.8

1,934.9

330.1

20.6

37,770

53-7062

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand

2,068.2

2,387.3

319.1

15.4

23,460

25-1000

Postsecondary Teachers

1,756.0

2,061.7

305.7

17.4

45,690

31-1012

Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants

1,505.3

1,807.2

302.0

20.1

24,010

39-9011

Childcare Workers

1,282.3

1,544.3

262.0

20.4

19,300

43-3031

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

1,898.3

2,157.4

259.0

13.6

34,030

41-2011

Cashiers

3,362.6

3,612.8

250.2

7.4

18,500

25-2021

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

1,476.5

1,725.3

248.8

16.8

51,660

43-4171

Receptionists and Information Clerks

1,048.5

1,297.0

248.5

23.7

25,240

37-2011

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

2,310.4

2,556.8

246.4

10.7

22,210

37-3011

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

1,151.5

1,392.3

240.8

20.9

23,400

41-4012

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products

1,430.0

1,653.4

223.4

15.6

52,440

47-2061

Construction Laborers

998.8

1,211.2

212.4

21.3

29,280

43-6013

Medical Secretaries

508.7

718.9

210.2

41.3

30,530

43-1011

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

1,424.4

1,627.8

203.4

14.3

47,460

47-2031

Carpenters

1,001.7

1,197.6

196.0

19.6

39,530

35-3031

Waiters and Waitresses

2,260.3

2,456.2

195.9

8.7

18,330

33-9032

Security Guards

1,035.7

1,230.7

195.0

18.8

23,920

25-9041

Teacher Assistants

1,288.3

1,479.3

191.1

14.8

23,220

13-2011

Accountants and Auditors

1,216.9

1,407.6

190.7

15.7

61,690

29-2061

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

752.3

920.8

168.5

22.4

40,380

29-1060

Physicians and Surgeons

691.0

859.3

168.3

24.4

111,570

31-9092

Medical Assistants

527.6

690.4

162.9

30.9

28,860

Source: Employment Projections program, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Choosing the Right College You made it. You got through grade school, succeeded in high school, and now the search begins…for the perfect college. You may already have your eye on a school, or you may be keeping your options open. Whatever your situation, there are some pointers to keep in mind when making your decision.

To start, make a list of the colleges in which you are most interested. Divide the list into three categories: top choices, acceptable choices and sure-things. You also may want to add the reasons they interest you and the factors that make them unique.

Seek out advice from those you trust – high school teachers, guidance counselors, friends and family members or school alumni – and ask why they favor a particular school. Also consider your educational goals and the field of study you would like to pursue. If one of your top choices does not offer that particular major, it may be safe to scratch it off your list.

Another important component to consider is the social atmosphere and the type of housing accommodations the school has to offer. Do you want to attend a school where the students never sleep, or would you prefer to live in a quiet, non-party environment? Make sure the school that you choose will make you feel comfortable so you can succeed academically.

Seek out printed information about the school. Directories, websites, maps and newsletters will help you navigate the campus and enable you to decide if this is where you want to spend the next four, or more, years.

Lastly, talk to college representatives and staff on campus. Interview them about their likes and dislikes about the school, the academic and non-academic programs that the school offers and the types of financial aid that is available.

Most importantly, make sure the school will meet your needs and help you to excel in whatever path you choose.

The SATs – Preparation is the Buzz Word You know there is no way around it. If you want to go to college, you must do well on the dreaded SAT test. This single event can lead to many sleepless nights and bouts of nervous anxiety. But if you head into the testing center armed with a few special tips, you may score well ahead of the game.

For starters, begin preparing and studying for the test months in advance.

Find practice tests or study guides online and upon completion of these practice exams, study the results. Find out why you scored wrong on a particular question and look at what you did right.

Perhaps the best way to aid in preparation is to take challenging courses in high school. Take plenty of math and science courses and make sure that your reading comprehension and writing skills are in order.

Develop a plan to study for the SATs for an allotted amount of time each day. Seek out the aid of a specialized tutoring service, such as the SAT tutoring offered at Huntington, which may not only help you with your studying, but may increase your confidence and calm your nerves.

If you decide to take the test twice, learn from your experience the first time.

Research the questions you got wrong on the first test and learn why you got them wrong.

As the day of test approaches, do something relaxing the night before, such as reading a book and getting a good night’s sleep. Wake up early enough to eat a nutritious breakfast and plan to arrive at the testing center early. Finally, be sure you are prepared with the right materials – a valid ID for access to the testing center and several number 2 pencils.

With preparation, you will find that the test-taking anxiety you initially felt, will be replaced with confidence and satisfaction.

SAT

Paying for College You have your heart set on going to college. Now you need to pay for it. Planning ahead will not only help you save money, but may save you time, as well.

First, plan ahead. Simply depositing a minimal amount of money into a savings account years ahead of college will pay off big when the bills for tuition and books start to come.

There are a couple of easy methods for saving. The first is to write yourself a check each month that automatically goes into your college account. Or, simply have a part of your paycheck directly deposited into the account.

Also, know that you do not have to save for the entire four years of school. There are options like financial aid, grants and loans available that can help to cover expenses and minimize the economic impact on your wallet.

Consider investing in a prepaid tuition program, which enables you to prepay for tomorrow’s college tuition at today’s costs. Or, choose a 529 college savings plan, which has no guarantee of earnings, but can be used at any college, for any expense, and has specific tax advantages.

Websites such as SavingforCollege.com, offer valuable resources for planning and maximizing your college tuition and other expenses. Most states have a website that contains information about prepaid tuition programs or 529 college savings plans.

If you are beginning to save more than five years from the college entrance date, consider investing in mutual funds through a professional fund manager. If you have less than five years before entering college, consider other options such as savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit.

With a little planning and some smart budgeting, paying for college is an attainable goal.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 21

Shop Gill Hall Road in Your Community

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

3D Virtual Rehab

Sponsored Content

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inPerson

Richard Costanzo —

His Dream and His Journey Home

By Leigh Lyons

It’s been an awesome experience playing in my hometown,” says Costanzo. “It’s great that my family can see me play without having to travel very far, and I appreciate all of my family and friends’ support at each home game.

I

f you travel to a local field on any given afternoon, you may spot a young twentysomething year old man running wind sprints, deftly maneuvering the ball with his feet like a puppeteer honing his craft, and deftly striking free kick after free kick. That young man also happens to be a professional soccer player, Thomas Jefferson graduate, Richard Costanzo.

Costanzo started his soccer journey long ago, being that kid that always truly loved the game.

He could never get enough of soccer. Soccer was his life, and he loved his life. He made waves in Western Pennsylvania as a youth soccer player, everyone knowing his name. His hard work

coupled with his natural ability, along with a skilled supporting cast of players and coaches, led Costanzo to the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) championship game three times. His Jaguars successfully brought home the State Championship in 2002, Costanzo’s junior year.

Throughout his youth career, Costanzo had the privilege of playing for, and with, some outstanding teams. He quickly rose through the Olympic Development Program’s state and regional teams. “I had a lot of great experiences playing ODP. Playing with the Regional and National team gave me an opportunity to see

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competition outside of Western Pennsylvania,” recollected Costanzo. He remembers traveling over to Europe and experiencing firsthand how the rest of the world reveres soccer. “I saw how passionate the rest of the world was for soccer, and I knew that if I wanted to compete with players from all over the world that I would have to practice every single day because that is what they were doing.”

After graduating from TJ in 2004, Costanzo continued his soccer career to Penn State University. Penn State was an in-state school with a solid soccer program. After one complete year, he just felt as though Penn State was no longer

the right fit for him, and Costanzo transferred to the University of Maryland. “I transferred to the University of Maryland because I wanted to win an NCAA Division 1 National Championship,” Costanzo stated. The University of Maryland had just come off winning a National Championship and the program seemed to be the perfect fit for Costanzo. He began training with his new team members that summer. The transition was seamless for him as he had previously played with some of his new teammates on the United States Regional and National teams through ODP. In 2008, Costanzo’s senior year, he fulfilled his dream of winning a National Championship. The Maryland Terrapins were the Division 1 National Champions in 2008. “We won the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) that year,” exclaimed Costanzo. Winning the ACC is nearly as coveted

as winning the National Championship with national powers like University of North Carolina and Wake Forest competing year in and year out.

And after college soccer, Costanzo always fully intended on continuing his playing career.

Costanzo left Maryland with a business degree and a National Championship under his belt. He signed with the Minnesota Thunder. He then played two seasons with the Rochester Rhinos.

For the last two seasons, Costanzo has been back in his hometown playing for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. His journey now having come full circle, “It has been an awesome experience playing in my hometown,” stated Costanzo. “It

is great that my family can get to see me play without having to travel very far, and I appreciate all of my family and friends’ support at each home game.”

His family and friends tailgate before and after every game at Highmark Stadium, the new stadium built specifically for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds down in Station Square. Having his family at each game is especially meaningful for Costanzo, as his family has been with him, supporting him, driving him each step throughout his career, both literally and figuratively. Back when Costanzo was in high school, his mother drove him to Philadelphia each week so he could play with one of the premier club teams on the East Coast, FC Delco.

The trip was five hours away, but Costanzo and his mother made the trip each and every week.

Costanzo’s father worked day in and day out to ensure that his son could have the opportunity to follow his dreams wherever they took him, including the trip to Philadelphia each week. His older sister, a straight “A” student and three-time state champion gymnast always provided him with the advice and support he needed, so having them be able to watch and enjoy the fruits of all of their labor is satisfying to Costanzo.

A typical day now for Costanzo starts with Riverhounds practice at 9 a.m. After a few hours of practice, and extra work put in after the official practice, Costanzo then usually has a few coaching sessions to tend to. Costanzo has started his own soccer outfit called Pittsburgh Soccer Academy. “I enjoy working with the kids and passing on information that I have obtained over the years,” Costanzo said.

If you wander around the grassy fields near Pleasant Hills these days you will see those same youth teams practicing into the twilight of the night. And if you squint to the far end of the field, you will probably see that same young man sharpening his footwork and precisely executing shot after shot. Not much has changed for Richard Costanzo over the years, not much has changed at all, except for everything. ■

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 29

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

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Concussion Prevention

Sponsored Content

West Jefferson Hills School & Borough News

West Jefferson Hills School District

Borough of Jefferson Hills

32

Message from the West Jefferson Hills

48

Letter from our Former Mayor, Michael Green

School District Superintendent

48

Message from Police Chief, Gene Roach

33 Pleasant Hills Middle School

49

Jefferson Hills Heroes Honored

36

Gill Hall Elementary School

50

Borough Breaks Ground for New Public Works Garage

39

McClellan Elementary School

51

Mark Your Calendar

42

Jefferson Elementary School

51

Summer Recreation Program Memories

44 Thomas Jefferson High School

52 Don’t Let Pesticides Bug Our Watershed

44

53

South Hills Art League Plans Return this Holiday Season

45 Technology, Augmenting Instruction

53

Upcoming West Jefferson Hills Historical Society Programs

and Learning at WJHSD

53

Mark Your Calendar for Upcoming Library Events

46

Welcome to Dining Services at WJHSD

54

Jefferson Hills’ Children Had Fun “Digging Into Reading”

this Summer

54

Fall Library Programs

WJHSD Seeking New Substitutes

47 Director of Finance Report

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 31

Message from the

West Jefferson Hills School District Superintendent

We st J e ffe rso n H ills S cho ol Dist ric t News

est Jefferson Hills

H

ello and welcome to the 2013-2014 school year! We at West Jefferson Hills are proud to welcome all of the new and the returning students as we begin a new adventure.

Each new school year offers everyone, students and staff alike, a chance for a fresh start. No matter what may have occurred in the past, the start of a new school year provides the opportunity to make new decisions, to point in a new direction so that all can experience the positive results desired. As Jack Penn said, “One of the secrets of life is to make stepping stones out of stumbling blocks.” A new school year provides this opportunity as we forge a new path toward the future.

The 2013-2014 school year proves to be an exciting time in the history of the West Jefferson Hills School District. As reported in the Spring 2012 edition of the Pittsburgh Business Times, based on the state assessment scores from the 20102011 school year, the West Jefferson Hills School District was ranked number 17 as compared to the 105 school districts in the seven-county regional area. Based on the scores earned by the students during the 2011-2012 school year, the district improved its ranking to number 15 as reported this past spring.

The results from the 2012-2013 school year will be reported in the spring of 2014. And, of course, our goal is to keep climbing into the top ten in the region.

Everyone will play a role in making this vision a reality.

Parents of elementary students, you are encouraged to read to your children every day. When the students are able, have your child read to you. Reading is the cornerstone to all learning.

If your child is older, create a specific time and location for your child to complete their homework. A consistent routine is important to gain results. Just ask any professional artist or athlete.

Another consideration is to keep students involved in school and community activities.

Students that participate in music, sports, community groups, church groups and the like learn time-management skills and typically perform well in school.

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Administration Building 835 Old Clairton Road • Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 Phone 412.655.8450 • Fax 412.655.9544 www.wjhsd.net

To all staff members, we must maintain a strong learning environment, prepared daily to educate students in the latest researched-based methods every day. There is no one size fits all as we must address each student as an individual meeting their specific needs.

As we prepared for the new school year many items have been accomplished over the summer.

A new roof was installed over most of Gill Hall Elementary, technology upgrades were completed at the Pleasant Hills Middle School and Jefferson Elementary, and the turf at the high school stadium was replaced.

During the upcoming school year, the district will continue planning for the upgrade of facilities. The district is also required to complete the comprehensive planning model as required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. In addition to the Comprehensive Planning model, the district is looking to enter into a strategic planning process to provide focus and direction.

Yes, there is a lot of excitement in West Jefferson Hills. We invite you to become a part of the excitement. Please come to a School Board meeting, volunteer at one of the schools, attend a concert, a play or a sporting event and be certain to follow us on the web site at www.wjhsd.net.

Working together we will make a positive difference in the life of a child. As Margaret Mead said, “A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Together, let’s create opportunities for our students that last a lifetime.

Best wishes on a great school year and Go Jaguars!

Sincerely, Dr. Michael Panza, Superintendent West Jefferson Hills School District

intramural volleyball and basketball, reading, and creative writing.

Pleasant Hills Middle School implemented the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program during the 2012-13 school year and will continue during the 2013-2014 school year. Staff and students worked collaboratively to clearly define bullying and the behaviors associated with it. School wide rules were established to reduce bullying. Weekly meetings were held to teach students the effects of bullying and specific actions to take if bullying occurs. Our goal is to continue to make Pleasant Hills Middle School a positive and supportive environment for all students.

L-R Row 1 (fron t): Samantha Ro gers, Sweta Pa Zachary Downer, tel, Caleigh Briggs, Alexis Pikula.

L-R Row 2 (back ): Emily Leonard , Skylar Stump, Steve Uremovich , Alex Bagnell, Ja red Rossi, Jaso Marina Petruzz n Murin, i, Sarah Wernsma n, Shaylor Willia ms

Kaitlyn Boedicker

L-R front row: John Adams, Alex Weber, Ben Ingimarson, Chad Gress, Erin Urbaniak, Hunter Reynolds, Alexa Plaszynski, Julia Shearn, Jenna Clark, Mia Como, Julia Fiedor, Elena Savikas, Dorothy Johnson, Josh Reynolds.

Middle row: Ian Cenci, Kellen Lynch, Liam Giger, Shawn Radovic, E.J. Bruggeman, Casey Bilski, Michael Siemon, James McKay, Alexandro Pazo, Dionna Sypolt, Julia Mimidis, Julia Rose, Mackenzie McCormick, Brenna Stoffel.

Back row: Lindsay Kalup, Rosina Natter, Tommy Campbell, Katie DeRoss, Audrey King, Emily Leonard, Danny Harrold, Jason Mortle, Kevin Walsh.

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis t ric t News — Pl e asa n t H ills M i d dl e S C hoo l

Engineering and Technology course, Pleasant Hills Middle School welcomed students will make full use of the video over 650 students for the 2013-14 school production lab. Grade 6 students will year. The Grade 6 Open House in August be able to have an introduction to video introduced the students to Pleasant production; Grade 7 students will learn to Hills Middle School and explained the capture and edit video; Grade 8 students school’s motto of Jaguar PRIDE. Jaguars are Prepared each day for their classes and will focus on producing and editing.

The lab will also be available to all staff activities. Jaguars show Respect for staff and students to promote connections members and fellow students. Jaguars value their Individuality and do not always between content areas and increase the use of technology to improve student go along with the crowd. Jaguars exhibit learning.

Determination when faced with difficult The school is fortunate to add a new and challenging situations. Jaguars put Grade 6 Social Studies teacher to the forth their best Effort with each task they staff. A graduate of Duquesne University, undertake. When students display their Monica Ziemski was awarded as a Jaguar PRIDE, it makes PHMS a better place to learn. We will continue to develop Dean’s Teaching Fellow at Duquesne for academic excellence, outstanding student those characteristics in all our students teaching evaluations, and involvement and look forward to another great school in noteworthy school and/or community year. Here are a few of the exciting things activities. A Pleasant Hills resident, Monica happening at PHMS for the 2013-2014 comes to us from South Park Elementary school year.

School where she co-founded the Pleasant Hills Middle School received Reading Express Clinic. She enjoys a $20,000 grant from the Center for Creativity at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Funded by the Grable and Benedum Foundations, the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) Grant encourages a commitment to creativity, contextual thinking, and other aptitudes deemed critical to college and career readiness demands of the 21st Century. The STEAM monies funded a Digital Communications lab complete with 30 iPads and an Apple L-R: Giovanna Gulli, Caelan Macdonald, Sarah DuJordan, TV. As part of the Applied

by Principal, Dan Como, and Vice Principal, Cindi Fuselier

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We st J e ffe rs on H ills S cho ol Dist ric t News — Pl e asa n t H ills M i d dl e SC h ool

Pleasant Hills MIDDLE SCHOOL

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Gill Hall Elementary School

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Wes t Je ff ers on Hills S choo l Dist ric t News — Gill H all El e m e n tary SC h ool

Dear Gill Hall Families: Welcome back to the 2013-2014 school year! It seems like yesterday that I first started here as the principal of Gill Hall, and now those little kindergarteners who started out with me are 5th graders!! I would especially like to welcome our incoming kindergarteners and all families new to the Gill Hall area. We are excited to welcome you to our family!

There’s a lot of excitement ahead of us, including the adoption of a rigorous new math series, My Math, which is aligned to the Common Core Standards, continuation of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, First in Math, and Accelerated Reader. So many new books to read, new friends to meet and new skills to master... and I look forward to sharing in those exciting times with your children. Our rigorous academic programs, amazing teaching staff, and parent involvement is highly evident in the fact that Gill Hall

Elementary has met AYP on the 2013 PSSA results for the 10th year in a row!!!

I would like to thank the PTA for all of their hard work over the summer! Members diligently took the time to plan so many fun and exciting activities throughout the school year. I cannot stress enough the importance of parent involvement in a child’s education, as well the important roles that the PTA plays! Family members are strongly encouraged to become active members!

In closing, I wish everyone a wonderful new school year, filled with academic challenges, new experiences, and lifelong memories. I look forward to working with each of you this year! Together we can achieve wonderful things Thank you for your commitment to your child’s education!

Sincerely, Tina Mayer, Principal

Farewell Summer’s over ... it was fun Now it’s time to get things done Catch the bus and be on time Standing straight in all those lines Morgan Getting homework every day Goldstrom (left )and Jared Do it quick and then go play Goldstrom (right) with Mrs. Tina Early nights and days so full Mayer, Principal.

Following those school time rules Do your best and you will see Life will go by so quickly For one day when you are grown welcome Your lessons written all in stone You will know that in the end These the best days you will spend Sharing knowledge doing well Your future has a lot to tell. ~Francine Pucillo, 2004~ 36 West Jefferson Hills

W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis tric t News — Gill H all El e m e n tary S Ch oo l

West Jefferson Hills

Gill Hall ElemeNtary

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We s t J e ff ers o n H ills Sch oo l Dist ric t News — Gill H all El e m e n tary SC h ool Gill Hall ElemeNtary

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I hope you enjoyed your summer!

I want to be the first to welcome all of our new Kindergarten families to McClellan. We can’t wait for you to be a part of our family and watch your children grow with us throughout the year. And for those families with returning students, we are planning for another exciting year!

We will continue our Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, with our theme of “Be a hero, not a bully.” The teachers are instilling in our students the notion that they can be the hero and stand up for someone being bullied.

Students are taught what bullying is and how to prevent it from occurring. There will be weekly meetings, and we will also ask for feedback from the parents. We need your support in this endeavor, so please discuss the weekly topics with your child.

You can be a hero too! If we are lucky, we might even get another visit from a real super hero this year! Along with our anti-bullying campaign, we will continue to reward students for their kind and positive behaviors as well. The Behavior Bingo board was a real hit last year, so it will be hanging back up in our front hall again this year.

Every time a teacher sees someone displaying a positive behavior, they may send the student to the office to get a bingo number. The student places their name and homeroom on the number and places it in our bingo board. Once we get 10 in a row, all 10 students get recognized over the intercom and receive a prize. As part of their prize, they color in a bingo board with their name on it. These are displayed around the big board for all to see.

Another way your child can be recognized is through our Accelerated

Reader (AR) and First in Math programs.

Last year we encouraged our students to be “Rock St’AR’ Readers”. All of our prizes for the Accelerated Reader program had a rocker theme. And at our end of the year pajama party for the students that reached their goal all four times, they were treated to a surprise performance from a real rock star. Jean-Marc, the lead singer from local rock band, Tres Lads, came

can also earn individual awards, such as player of the day for their class or player of the week for the school.

We also look forward to another year of wonderful assemblies and events planned by our fabulous PTA. We encourage all families to attend our PTA meetings that are conveniently scheduled in the mornings and in the evenings to accommodate everyone’s busy schedules. Becoming an active

L-R: Abby Atkinson, Ava Colosimo, Samantha Stanley, Camryn Gore and Emma Wodarek.

to our school to put on an awesome acoustic performance (you can view this on our website). This year’s theme is “Be a Ro’AR’ing Reader”, so we’ll have a lot of “wild” prizes that I’m sure the kids will think are “grrrrrrrrrreat”! Last year’s First in Math completion had our homerooms competing in the FIM Grand Prix. First in Math is an online math tutorial program that awards stickers for completing math problems in a fun and interactive platform.

For every 1000 stickers their class earned, their race car moved down the racetrack. Mrs. Hartbauer’s Fifth Grade Fury team ended up winning with over 54,000 stickers. This year we’ll be setting up the FIM Football Field and challenging the students to be the first to score a touchdown. Students

member of the PTA not only helps to keep you involved in your child’s school, but it improves the whole educational experience for all of our students. Some of the upcoming events this year include a Book Fair at open house in September, a couple of Bingo nights, and even a Craft and Vendor show in November. So start the year off right, and join the PTA!

Just in Liberat ore Let’s have a great year!

Justin Liberatore - Principal

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis tric t News — M cCl e lla n El e m e n tary S cho ol

Dear Parents and Students of McClellan Elementary School,

West Jefferson Hills

McClellan Elementary School

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Wes t Je ff ers o n Hills S choo l Dist ric t News – M cCl e lla n El e m e n tary Sch ool

McClellan Elementary School

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis t ric t News – J E FFE RS ON El e m e n tary Scho ol

West Jefferson Hills

JEFFERSON Elementary School

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We st J e ffe rs on H ills S cho ol Dist ric t News – J E FFE RS ON El e m e n tary Sch ool

Mrs. Kocis Accepts Award

Jefferson Elementary Teacher Receives Prestigious Science Award

by Chris Very, Principal

The faculty and staff of Jefferson Elementary are always looking for innovative and meaningful learning opportunities that actively engage our students and supplement our curricula, sometimes taking them outside the walls of Jefferson Elementary. Under the direction of our fifth-grade teachers Mrs. Lori Gephart, Mrs. Susie Reynolds, Mrs. Stephanie Martinis, and Mrs. Adrianne Rybka, and gifted support teacher Mrs. Constance Kocis, our fifth-grade students annually visit the rivers of Pittsburgh to participate in the RiverQuest Educational Program. RiverQuest is a non-profit science and environmental education organization that operates a river-based learning center for students, teachers and the community throughout the tristate area. All RiverQuest programs are adventure-based, discovery programs that engage students in hands-on learning activities held onboard a vessel and on shore. Their comprehensive educational programs utilize hands-on approaches and technology to further the development of critical thinking skills, technological literacy and environmental stewardship.

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis t ric t News – J E FFE RS ON El e m e n tary Scho ol

West Jefferson Hills

At the Annual RiverFest event, which is an event that celebrates students and teachers who have demonstrated excellence in the field of science, Mrs. Constance Kocis was presented with their most prestigious honor: RiverQuest Science Educator of the Year Award. This award is presented to an educator who consistently demonstrates excellence in science education and a commitment to hands-on science instruction. In addition to being named Science Educator of the Year, Mrs. Kocis received a digital microscope from Thermo Fisher Scientific for use with the Jefferson Elementary students, a lab coat, and a memorial plaque, which will be proudly displayed in our school lobby. Since 1996, Mrs. Kocis has worked to bring students of West Jefferson Hills School District to the Environmental Science on the Three Rivers Program on the Floating Laboratories of Pittsburgh Voyager/RiverQuest. To date, it is estimated that Mrs. Kocis has helped facilitate the attendance of nearly 1,700 West Jefferson Hills students to the various river science programs. The RiverQuest staff noted that student groups from Jefferson Elementary School are well versed on how to work collaboratively in a laboratory setting and are consistently well prepared for the kinds of scientific testing that a voyage onboard EXPLORER requires.

Upon being made aware of this prestigious recognition, Mrs. Kocis immediately attributed the success of this enrichment opportunity to our students, their families, our supportive school district, and her colleagues. We are all extremely proud of her recognition and appreciate her dedication to providing our students with meaningful, aligned, learning opportunities.

Additional information about RiverQuest can be found at www.riverquest.org.

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We st J e ffe rs on H ills S cho ol Dist ric t News – T H O MA S J E FFE RS ON H IG H Sch ool

Move up DAY

by Keith Hartbauer, Vice Principal

On June 4th, Thomas Jefferson High School ran their annual move-up day. This is a day in which the current eighth graders at Pleasant Hills Middle School and surrounding parochial schools come to the high school to prepare their schedule for the next calendar year. This is an exciting opportunity for students to experience the many opportunities awaiting them in the next school year. The current 9th, 10th, and 11th graders also partake in this day.

Move-up day serves many purposes for the students, teachers, and administrators. The students have an opportunity to walk through their next year’s schedule. If they encounter any problems with their schedule, such as an unassigned class period, missing a required class, or desire to schedule an additional class, they can make their counselor aware of the issue and it will be corrected over the summer.

Eighth grade students also have the opportunity to meet with their senior National Honor Society (NHS) mentor.

The mentor program is in its 5th year of existence at Thomas Jefferson. Each year the incoming eighth graders are partnered with a senior NHS member. The eighth graders and the mentors meet in the spring at the middle school. They spend half a day participating in icebreaker activities, exchange contact information, and ask and answer questions related to the high school.

We are looking for a few good people.

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The mentor program was established to assist in the transition between middle school and high school. Since the genesis of this program, the high school has seen a steady decline in ninth grade attendance issues and discipline referrals, and improved academic achievements. When the students arrive in the fall, there will be a mentor breakfast that will provide opportunities for students to discuss any other concerns or trepidations they may have during the first days of school.

Along with creating a better transition for students, moveup day also positively impacts the teachers. Teachers use this opportunity to hand out the course syllabus, assess students’ base knowledge of the subject, review classroom regulations, monitor class size, report room conflicts, and most importantly, engage their future students with their goals and expectations for the upcoming year. Advanced placement teachers like this time because they have the opportunity to discuss the course materials that are required to be completed over the summer months with their students. Many teachers also use this day to encourage students to register for any extra-curricular club or activity that they would like to participate in during the school year.

The third component of move-up day is the invaluable information the administrators receive from executing the next school year schedule. This gives administrators the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the schedule and to make any necessary adjustments to provide the highest level educational program available for the students and staff.

These adjustments allow administrators to create a master schedule that ensures a smooth transition as students arrive for the start of a new school year.

With the start of a new school year, the West Jefferson Hills School District is looking to add new names to our list of substitutes.

Substitutes are needed in all areas including:

• Cafeteria • Custodians • Maintenance

• Secretaries • Teachers • And more

This is a great opportunity to be with your children while returning to the work force.

Please visit the district website at www.wjhsd.net or call us at 412.655.8450 ext. 2226.

Hope to see you in the building!

our district-wide data network to an incredibly fast and reliable infrastructure. Not only are we re-cabling and upgrading network electronics in each of our buildings, we have also increased the communication and connectivity speed between our buildings ten-fold. In addition, we are bolstering our existing campus-wide wireless system to accept exponential user capacity and deliver exceptional bandwidth for a true broadband experience for every user connected to the system. Given these upgrades, our district will be ready to develop and implement a true Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) offering to both our staff and students. In addition to the hardware upgrades, we are also upgrading our network software to latest and greatest offerings. This will include moving many of services such as email and productivity suites to the “cloud” for anytime, anyplace access. Our users will be able to easily access and continue with their work and projects outside of the district network. We will also create portals to allow for onsite or offsite collaboration and communication.

Along with the upgrades being implemented, our main objective remains the proper and innovate use of technology in our district. Our faculty has an exceptional knowledge of integrating technology in their coursework. There are numerous examples of technology being used inside and outside the classroom in interactive and student-centered environments.

Some of these include: • Building robots, programming them via a computer, and then testing them in the real world.

• Using multimedia technologies to create stop-motion videos and presentations.

• Using interactive whiteboards and document cameras to perform virtual tasks, observe and analyze, and share the outcome with the rest of the class.

• Regularly video conferencing with students and experts across the world.

• Creating multimedia morning announcements available to the schools in the district.

• Using online resources to create presentations/movies/stories, share bookmarks and other resources, take virtual trips, and collaborate in real-time with peers in other parts of the world.

• Working with Web 2.0 and creating vibrant web pages, web applications, blogs, and wikis.

West Jefferson Hills School District has a commitment to its staff and students to provide them with reliable and most up-todate technology to accomplish their objectives, become digital learners, work in individualized environments, and to be prepared for the 21st century world about them. However, we also strongly believe that any technology is only as good as how it is integrated and utilized. We rely on our faculty to effectively employ the available technology to not only promote student learning and achievement, but to also nurture their desire to learn and become confident and metacognitive individuals.

For more information on how technology is used in our district, please visit our website at www.wjhsd.net.

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis tric t News – T H O MA S J E FFE RS ON H IG H S cho ol

In the last decade or so, technology has become an integral component of any successful curriculum. From extending learning to a global reach, to researching and analyzing up to date information, to designing innovative creations and performances, technology is a tool regularly utilized by both students and teachers. At West Jefferson Hills School District, using traditional computing environments, a district-wide wireless network, interactive whiteboards, video conferencing units, document cameras, multimedia apparatus, and mobile technologies, our teachers and students employ technology in a variety of ways to not only accomplish the objectives of their curriculum but to also gain a positive orientation towards instruction and learning.

One of the primary objectives of our school district is to provide our staff and students with the latest in technology and relevant tools they require. To this end, our district is completing phase two of a three phase project to update

West Jefferson Hills

Technology, Augmenting Instruction and Learning at West Jefferson Hills Suhail Baloch, of Technology School District byDirector

Welcome to Dining Services at West Jefferson Hills School District

We st J e ffe rs on H ills S cho ol Dist ric t News

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by John Rambo Food Service Director

The number one priority of West Jefferson Hills School District’s food service program and our food service provider, Metz Culinary Management, is to provide high quality, delicious and nutritious food. We provide a diverse and varied menu to meet the nutritional requirements, tastes and preference of the students.

Our school lunch meals are in accordance with the strict nutrition regulations of the USDA and the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act. School meals offer students milk, fruits, vegetables, proteins and grains and they meet strict limits on saturated fat. Our school lunch meals also offer the following: • Age-appropriate calorie limits • Larger servings of vegetables and fruits (students must take at least one serving of produce) • A wide variety of vegetables, including dark green and red/ orange vegetables and legumes • Fat-free or 1% milk (flavored milk is fat-free) • More whole grains • And less sodium When possible and available, Metz Culinary Management is proud to utilize local produce in our program.

What Makes a School Lunch?

Each day your child(ren) will be offered a complete lunch, which includes a serving of: Meat/Meat Alternate Bread Fruit Vegetable Milk In order for a lunch to be in compliance with the guidelines, students must choose at least three of the five components

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and one must be a fruit or vegetable. Some examples include: 1. Meat/Meat Alternative + Grain/Bread + Vegetable + Milk 2. Meat/Meat Alternative + Grain/Bread + Vegetable 3. Meat/Meat Alternative + Grain/Bread + Fruit 4. Meat/Meat Alternative + Grain/Bread + Fruit + Vegetable + Milk *Please note that each example includes a fruit or vegetable.

Leave Your Lunchbox At Home!

Buying lunch at school is a nutritious and healthy option and can help save money.

Cost of West Jefferson Hills School District Lunch: Elementary - $2.40 Middle School - $2.65 High School - $2.65 Reduced - $0.40 & Free With many nutritious and delicious options offered daily, there’s something to please everyone.

We have made payments easier by utilizing the PayForIt.net on-line payment service. Automatic payments can be made by logging on to www. payforit.net. Parents can create an account, check their child’s account balance, track what their child is eating and make payments to their cafeteria

account via credit or debit cards. Adding payments via credit or debit card is subject to a transaction fee.

Parents may also make a deposit by personal check, payable to the WJHSD Cafeteria Fund or by cash. Cafeteria deposit envelopes are readily available in the cafeteria lines and school offices. The envelopes are to be given to the cashier in the cafeteria. Deposits will appear in the student’s account as soon as the cashier enters them.

Free and reduced lunch must be applied for at the start of every school year. The application is available online or in the District offices or cafeterias.

We look forward to another successful school year, and providing your child(ren) with healthy and nutritious meals throughout the year. If you have any questions about our dining program or your child’s account, please contact us at 412.655.8610, x6270.

Information submitted by Mrs. Tracy A. Harris, Director of Finance, West Jefferson Hills School District

The West Jefferson Hills School District 2013-2014 Budget The West Jefferson Hills School District Board of School Directors approved the 2013-2014 General Fund Budget that reflects an adjusted millage rate of 18.104. The adjusted rate is due to the county-wide reassessment, and the Act 1 revenue neutral legislation.

The District raised the millage rate to the Act 1 index of 2.2% or .39 mills. This increase of .39 mills will yield an approximate $480,000 for the District to plan for future capital needs.

Budgetary discussion and financial decisions for the District continue to reflect our fiscal responsibility.

When comparing millage rates to other school districts located in Allegheny County, West Jefferson Hills School District currently ranks 11th lowest out of 42 districts.

Comparable millage rates in Allegheny County range from 15.22 mills to 32.63 mills.

The financial commitment of the District to the community has included the hiring of teachers to replace those who have retired and refinancing prior debt. The savings, represented by these hires and refinancing, have enabled the District to continue to invest substantial dollars into our education programs, revising curriculum, updating textbooks for core subjects in grades kindergarten through twelve, and upgrading technology. We also continue to safeguard our educational facilities, maintaining their security, cleanliness, and efficiency.

We will sustain our quest for educational excellence, and continue to provide our students one of the best educational opportunities in Western Pennsylvania.

As shown in the corresponding chart, District Revenues total $40,309,442. Local Revenues total $28,009,140, which represents 69.49% of the District’s total budget. State Revenues total $11,956,078, which represents only 29.7% of the District’s total budget.

District expenditures have increased 9.64% from 20122013 to $40,309,442. Salaries and Benefits represent 68.5% of the District expenditure budget and Debt Service represents 9.3% of the District expenditure budget.

The projected Unreserved/Undesignated Fund Balance for the West Jefferson Hills School District is $2,940,565 or 7.3% of

FISCAL YEAR 2013-2014 BUDGET SUMMARY BEGINNING FUND BALANCE ......................................$22,340,565 (Represents a combination of Unreserved/Undesignated and Reserved/Designated Fund Balances) REVENUES 6000 Local Sources.........................................................$28,009,140 7000 State Sources..........................................................$11,956,078 8000 Federal Sources...........................................................$329,224 9000 Other Sources................................................................ $15,000 TOTAL REVENUES............................................ $40,309,442 EXPENDITURES 1100 Regular Programs.................................................$17,479,701 1200 Special Programs.................................................... $3,940,098 1300 Vocational Programs.................................................$418,000 1400 Other Instructional Programs................................$301,947 1500 Nonpublic School Programs........................................$8,000 2100 Pupil Personnel....................................................... $1,157,551 2200 Instructional Staff.......................................................$914,592 2300 Administration......................................................... $2,717,782 2400 Pupil Health..................................................................$641,782 2500 Business.........................................................................$400,053 2600 Maintenance and Plant........................................ $3,714,526 2700 Transportation......................................................... $2,448,249 2800 Support Services - Central................................... $1,278,513 2900 Other Education............................................................ $37,158 3200 Student Activities................................................... $1,013,790 3300 Community Services................................................... $77,100 4000 Facilities...................................................................................... $0 5100 Debt Service............................................................. $3,280,600 5200 Fund Transfers..............................................................$480,000 TOTAL EXPENDITURES.................................... $40,309,442 REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES................... $0 ENDING FUND BALANCE Unreserved/Undesignated Fund Balance................ $2,940,565 Reserved/Designated Fund Balance........................$19,400,000 TOTAL FUND BALANCE................................... $22,340,565

budgeted expenditures. The projected Reserved/Designated Fund Balance (Designated Future Expenditures) for the West Jefferson Hills School District is $19,400,000. These Fund Balances have positioned the School District to move forward in a healthy financial condition and to plan for future needs.

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W e st J e ff e rs on Hills Sch ool Dis tric t News

Director of Finance Report

West Jefferson Hills

BUDGET

A LETTER TO OUR COMMUNITY FROM FORMER MAYOR,

MICHAEL GREEN

To Jefferson Hills Residents, Serving our community as your Mayor the past eight years has been an honor.

It has been a pleasure working with Borough Council and Administration. They have addressed the progress of our fast growing community with knowledge, fairness, and always in the best interest of the residents.

As I have expressed many times, our Chief of Police, Police Officers, and our Emergency Management team are the best trained and highly skilled. They are prepared and ready to protect and serve.

I have truly enjoyed working with the Jefferson Hills Library Director and staff. Being a part of the Holiday Celebration each year will always hold the dearest memories for me.

It’s a wonderful time for the children and seeing their eyes sparkle that evening is what it’s all about. Also, I ask you to please remember the Jefferson Hills Police Department’s Holiday Toy Drive.

I hope my successor enjoys serving you as much as I have.

Jefferson Hills is a great community and I extend my best wishes for a prosperous future.

bor ough o f je ff ers o n hills News

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Sincerely, Michael Green

COULD EMERGENCY RESPONDERS FIND YOUR HOUSE?

A Message from Borough of Jefferson Hills Police Chief, Gene Roach 48 West Jefferson Hills

I want to communicate to homeowners about the improvements they can make to the displaying of house numbers on their mailboxes and their homes, in order to enable emergency responders to quickly identify their residences.

Throughout the Borough, there is a lack of conspicuous posting of legible home addresses, especially when police, EMS and fire companies are responding to an emergency. Here is an example: Recently the Jefferson Hills Police responded to a possible burglary in progress at a home.

Upon arrival on the street in question, the officers had difficulty determining the victim’s residence due to a lack of a conspicuous house number.

Not only was the victim’s residence posted in an inconspicuous manner, but also were the neighbors’ homes. After several minutes on the scene, the responding officers determined which address was the proper residence and arrived there on foot. The officers found an open window, entered through it, and conducted a search of the home, failing to locate anyone.

A subsequent investigation revealed the identity of the burglars, and a later interview of them revealed that when they saw the police cars pull up at the wrong home, they fled through a window and into the woods. Not only did the escaping subjects remain at large by fleeing prior to police intervention, but also additional investigative time and effort was spent attempting to solve this burglary that could have been solved by capturing the subjects in the act, at the scene.

The above is just an example of the police responding to a crime in progress. Just as easily,

the response could be for a medical emergency or other request for assistance where a timely response may be critical to the survival of the victim. Even during this year’s recent July 10 storm, a lack of visible house numbers caused some difficulty for emergency responders and public works personnel in arriving at the proper address.

Here are some ideas for posting house numbers correctly, and with your safety in mind.

In order for house numbers to be visible from the street, the International Association of Home Inspectors advises that they should: • Be large. Jurisdictions that regulate the size of street numbers generally require them to be 3 to 6 inches tall and l/2” thick.

• Be of a color that contrasts with their

background. Reflective numbers are usually helpful because they are easier to see at night than numbers that are not reflective.

• Not be obscured by any trees, shrubs, or other permanent objects.

• Face the street that is named in the house’s address.

• Be clearly displayed at the driveway

entrance if the house is not visible from the road.

• If there is a roadside mailbox, display numbers on each side so emergency responders can see the numbers upon approach from either direction.

For more information see: www.nachi.org/house-numbers-consumer.htm

Chong Park, MD, Medical Director of the Heart Institute pins the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association’s Hero recognition pin on Robert Gibson, RN, Paramedic. In addition to being a member of the response team that helped Mr. Caldwell, Mr. Gibson schedules and conducts all CPR and other medical training for the Ambulance Association, businesses and the general public.

Glenn Caldwell is pictured (holding the AED) with the Plant Emergency Organization team at Guardian and Jefferson Hills EMS first responders, Robert Gibson, RN, Paramedic and Glenn Platt, Paramedic.

The Jefferson Hills Ambulance Association will offer CPR training to residents of Jefferson Hills and surrounding communities on Thursday, November 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Hills Municipal Center. Read more about the free class, on page 54, under “Fall Programs,” at www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org or call the Library to register (412.655.7741). Please plan to join us for this vital training. You may be a hero to someone in your life!

Posing for a photo after the recognition ceremony are l-r JHAA Chief Doug Pascoe, PHRN, Jefferson Regional Pre Hospital Care Manager, Del Olsen, Jefferson Hills Police Chief Gene Roach, JHAA Assistant Chief Robert Gibson, RN, Paramedic, Glenn Pratt, Paramedic and Rich Trainer, EMT. West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 49

B OR OU GH OF J E FFE RSON HI L L S News

Jefferson Regional Medical Center invited some local heroes to the hospital on August 22 to be recognized for their life-saving efforts on May 8 when Glenn Caldwell, an employee of Guardian Glass in Jefferson Hills, collapsed at the plant with a heart attack.

Mr. Caldwell’s heroes were the Plant Emergency Operations team at Guardian, our Jefferson Hills EMS, our police chief Gene Roach and his staff, and the Hospital’s Emergency Department of highly skilled doctors and nurses.

Because of the on-going training that the Guardian Glass employees receive from the Jefferson Hills EMS, the team at Guardian was able to begin immediate CPR and AED efforts before the EMS and Jefferson Hills police arrived on the scene. “I want to make special note that the Jefferson Hills EMS is not only recognized for their response but are also recognized for the valuable training that they had provided to the Guardian Industries employees who responded so quickly and skillfully,” said Louise Urban, Executive Vice President and COO of Jefferson Regional.

“One of the most important reasons why this event at Guardian Industries had such a successful outcome for Mr. Caldwell is everyone did their job efficiently and no time was wasted,” said Chong Park, MD, Director of the Heart Institute at Jefferson Regional.

Mr. Caldwell, who only spent a week in the hospital and made a full neurological recovery, thanked everyone in the room, but especially his co-workers for their life-saving efforts. “A thousand thanks wouldn’t even begin to touch the surface of how grateful I am... they are my heroes,” he said.

Chong Park, MD pins the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association’s Hero pin on Glenn Pratt, Paramedic and Rick Trainer, EMT who were first responders from the Jefferson Hills Ambulance Association. For more information about the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association see www.suddencardiacarrest.org.

West Jefferson Hills

Jefferson Regional Medical Center and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association Honor Jefferson Hills Heroes

Borough Breaks Ground for New Public Works Complex If you travel Old Clairton Road near the Route 51 interchange you might not realize that the Borough of Jefferson Hills’ Public Works Department has been housed at 3008 Old Clairton Road in Large. In need of a new building to replace the current dilapidated and crowded Public Works garage, Borough Council approved the construction of a new Public Works Complex in July. The new complex will improve department efficiency, safeguard Public Works assets and provide enough space to expand with the needs of our growing community.

Below are the details of the project that is expected to cost approximately $4.1 million and be completed in August 2014.

The Architect is McLean Architects, LLC and Site Engineers are The Gateway Engineers, Inc. Location: The project is located on approximately 11 acres on property immediately adjacent to the existing Jefferson Hills Municipal Center. Work includes site development for a new dedicated driveway to the facility from Old Clairton Road.

Salt Facility The salt storage facility will have a 7,200 sq. foot area with a salt storage capacity of 4,000 tons.

Site Amenities • Onsite diesel fuel-dispensing system to save fuel costs.

• Outdoor storage areas for stone, gravel, mulch, pipe and department supplies.

On September 9, Borough of Jefferson Hills Public Works Director Tom Lovell (far right), and Council members and project officials broke ground for the new Public Works Complex.

est Jefferson Hills bor ough o f je ff ers o n hills News

Building • The main structure is a fully accessible public works building with approximately 18,000 sq. feet, including a parking area for 18 vehicles, as well as storage for tires, parts and tools.

• The facility will include a separate service area with three vehicle service bays, including two truck lifts.

50 West Jefferson Hills

The Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association will give free flu shots to area adults (age 18 and over) on Saturday, October 5, 2013 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center Community Room, 925 Old Clairton Road. Shut-ins can make arrangements for a home visit by calling 412.384.0111.

Leaf Pick Up in Borough This Fall

Halloween Trick-or-Treat October 31, 6 to 8 p.m.

The Borough of Jefferson will pick up leaves on October 15, 29 and November 12. Leaves must be placed in biodegradable leaf bags that can be purchased at local home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowes.

Summer Memories‌

One hundred and twenty children were registered for the Summer Recreation Program on July mornings at the 885 and Gill Hall GBU Parks.

Pittsburgh magician David Lawrence captured the attention of the children as he presents flower magic on July 15 at 885 Park and Gill Hall Park.

Friends Kaleigh Johnson and Olivia McGuirk in front of the fish tank at the zoo.

Children enjoyed their annual excursion to the zoo.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 51

B OR OU GH OF J E FFE RSON HI L L S News

Free Flu Shots to be Given on October 5

West Jefferson Hills

Mark Your Calendar:

est Jefferson Hills

bor ough o f je ff ers o n hills News

52 West Jefferson Hills

Hours of the exhibit will be: Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Saturday: Sunday:

10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

The public is cordially invited to join us for a reception to welcome the artists and kick off the exhibit on Monday, December 9 from 6 – 8:30 p.m.

JOIN US TO VIEW OUR FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS TREES AND ALSO THE SOUTH HILLS ART LEAGUE EXHIBIT. MOST OF THE ART PIECES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR SALE, AND WILL MAKE GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS! www.southhillsartleague.org

The public is invited to join the West Jefferson Hills Historical Society for its monthly programs at 7 p.m. in the Community Room of the Borough of Jefferson Hills Municipal Center.

~

Wednesday, October 23 Songs of WWI Presented by Ed Favro and additional music by Tom Morris and Linda Milas.

~

Mark Your Calendar…

Annual Fall Festival

Saturday, October 12, 1 to 5 p.m.

Fun for the Entire Family Craft Show Featuring 25 Vendors Children’s Games, Coloring Contest, Magician, Basket Auctions, Food, Bake Sale Sponsored by West Jefferson Hills Historical Society

December Cookie Sale

Sponsored by the Friends of Jefferson Hills Library Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013, 1 – 3 p. m.

A wide variety of fresh, homemade cookies and specialty baked goods for sale. Freezing tips included.

12th Annual Borough of Jefferson Hills Holiday Celebration

Monday, December 2, 6 – 8 p.m.

Photos With Santa, Games, Food, Tree Lighting Join us throughout the Holiday season to view our Borough Christmas trees, and enjoy the South Hills Art League show from December 4 through January 3.

Wednesday, November 13 Vietnam – A Personal Experience Retired Lt. Col. Nick Edinger and Retired Lt. Col. Bob Anckaitis will present a program about their service in the Republic of Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. Nick and Bob will present a slide show, discuss their duties and daily routines and share fascinating stories of their time together in Vietnam. In addition, photos, equipment, clothing and other memorabilia will be displayed.

Nick was a Platoon Leader with the 34th S&S Battalion and was responsible for the warehouses operated by the U.S. Army Field Depot in DaNang. Bob served with the 101st Airborne Division as an Artillery Fire Direction Officer and Executive Officer on numerous fire bases.

~

December 7 Christmas Party (time to be announced)

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 53

B OR OU GH OF J E FFE RSON HI L L S L I B R ARY News

Jefferson Hills Library is pleased to announce that the South Hills Art League will hold an exhibit in the Community Living Room area of the Jefferson Hills Library, 925 Old Clairton Road, Jefferson Hills, PA, from December 4 through January 3.

Upcoming West Jefferson Hills Historical Society Programs Fall 2013

West Jefferson Hills

South Hills Art League Plans Return to Jefferson Hills This Holiday Season

Jefferson Hills’ Children had fun “DIGGING INTO READING” This Summer

bor ough o f je ff ers o n hills library News

est Jefferson Hills

Fifty children each week joined us for the Summer Reading Program at Jefferson Hills Library. This year the theme for the two-month program was Dig Into Reading.

Special programs were held each week: the Home Depot presented gardening and planting; the Carnegie Library provided a program on dinosaurs; local historian Joyce Schmidt presented “Fossils in the Pittsburgh Area;” and the Animal Rescue League & Welfare Center visited with a real live skunk.

1

2

Our teens and tweens helped out with crafts, snacks and special parties, and even participated in a few interesting projects of their own.

Thank you to our Children’s Librarian, Mrs. Ann Zettl, our special guests and everyone who made the Summer Reading Program a huge success.

Photo 1: Pat Lammle from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History thrilled the kids with a hands-on program about dinosaurs.

Photo 2: Teen/tween Librarian Jeff Connelly coordinated a frosted glass project.

Right, six-year-old Matthew Martinis was the winner of the autographed Jaguar helmet, donated by T. J. Football Coach Bill Cherpak.

54 West Jefferson Hills

Above, Gilda Arroyo from the Animal Rescue League Wildlife Center visited with a special friend.

Zumba Fitness 8 Weeks, Tuesdays September 24 – November 19 (Note: No class on Election Day, November 5) 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Tuition $5 per class Instructor: Noelle Taucher

Zumba Fitness is the only Latin-inspired dance-fitness program that blends red-hot international music and contagious steps to form a “fitness party.” Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Increase your energy and fitness levels. Join us for an easy to do, effective, and totally exhilarating exercise!

Gentle Beginners Yoga with an Optional Monthly Nutrition Class Saturdays, September 21 - March 1 (except October 12, November 30, December 28) 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Tuition: $5 per class Yoga Instructor: Linda Frost This gentle yoga class includes gentle stretches, breathing, relaxation and simple movements or postures to increase range of motion of the major joints, guide relaxation and meditation. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, two yoga blocks, a yoga strap, and towel, pillow or blanket.

Monthly Nutrition Class Following YOGA Saturday, October 5 Intro to Healthy

Foods Saturday, November 2 Weight Loss Saturday, December 7 Supplements Saturday, January 4 Bone Health Saturday, February 1 Raw Foods and

Juicing Saturday, March 1 Gluten Free,

Wheat Free 11 a.m. - Noon Tuition for BOTH Yoga and Nutrition: $14 Tuition for Nutrition Class ONLY: $9

Mark Davis, Licensed Nutritionist, Registered Dietitian, will join Linda Frost for a once a month nutrition series following a special YogaScents, Rest & Restore Yoga

To register: www.jeffersonhillslibrary.org or call 412.655.7741 class. During this class, the use of Certified Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils will be offered aromatically inviting students to explore three levels of stillness: Body, Breath and Mind.

Aromatherapy and yoga go together hand in hand.

Chair Caning and Other Woven Seats Wednesdays, October 16, 23, 30, November 6, 13, 20 6 to 8 p.m.

Tuition: $30 Instructor: Wesley Luckey

Would you like to use that old family cane, rush, reed chair or stool, with the seat or back coming apart?

Materials for this hands-on, stepby-step class will be strand cane, pre-woven cane, paper rush and flat reed as needed for individual projects.

All pieces for class must be in good repair and have a good surface finish.

No experience needed, but some hand and arm strength and dexterity is needed. Tools and materials, which will need to be purchased on an individual basis, will be $20 - $40 depending on each project.

Saving for Retirement

Learn about all of your retirement savings options plus how to calculate how much you will need to save and costs to consider.

The Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants is offering a free financial lecture series aimed at helping library patrons address their money concerns.

Thursday, October 17 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Presenters: John Greenling and Mary Bachorski Class is Free. Register online or at the Library

Scrabble Club Meets Tuesdays from Noon to 4 p.m.

New members are always welcome.

Computer Tutor Saturdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tutor: Gil Smith Need some one-on-one help with your P.C.? Our computer tutor will be happy to help you with e-mail, Word, searching the Web or anything else you need help with on your computer.

Just drop by.

Create a Holiday Fresh Pine/ Floral Table Arrangement With Jim Carlucci, owner of Della Robbia Flowers and Gifts Wednesday, December 18 6:30 to 8:15 p.m.

Cost for materials is $45.

SAT Preparation Class Sundays, October 6, 13, 20, 27 1 to 4 p.m.

Fee: $195 By: Test Master (www.testmaster.com).

Permission forms can be picked up at the library. The SAT exam is being given at TJ High School on November 2, 2013.

Story Times for Children Ages 3 and up Each day will feature a story/craft/ snack.

Thursdays, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.

September 26 – Back to School Program October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 October 24 (United Nations Day).

October 31 (Halloween) November 14 – One World Many Stories November 21 – Thanksgiving Party December 5, 12 – One World Many Stories December 19 – Holiday Party CPR ANYTIME FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS Thursday, November 7 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

This course is intended for the general public to learn the basic steps necessary to perform Hands-Only CPR. Partnering with Jefferson Hills Area Ambulance Association, the members of the general public will become an asset to our community, providing early CPR in the event of a Sudden Cardiac Arrest prior to the arrival of emergency responders. This skill is crucial in the link to survival for Sudden Cardiac Arrest victims.

CPR Anytime is an “all-in-one” class that teaches the following basic skills in about two hours: · Adult Hands-Only CPR · Child CPR (including delivery of breaths) · Adult and child choking relief · General AED awareness · Includes hands on practice.

There is no prerequisite or written test.

Please note, completion of the CPR Anytime course does not result in receipt of an AHA course completion card. This is a noncredentialed course for the general public.

West Jefferson Hills | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 55

B OR OU GH OF J E FFE RSON HI L L S L I B R ARY News

Jefferson Hills Borough 925 Old Clairton Road ~ Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 All Programs are held at the Library.

See each program for registration requirements.

West Jefferson Hills

FALL PROGRAMS 2013

inCOGNITO

Did you know?

Lobb’s Cemetery – a national landmark for more than just graves

By Matt Fascetti

L

obb’s Cemetery, located off Calamity Hollow Road in Jefferson Hills, is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to the 1700s.

The over 900 deceased in Lobb’s includes troops from the Revolutionary War, the Whiskey Rebellion, Civil War and both World Wars. Sadly, many of the graves at Lobb’s are unmarked, including one mass grave. But the West Jefferson Hills Historical Society has worked diligently over the years to obtain a list of names of those deceased as well as gathering information about some of the more well-known inhabitants and the stories of how they died.

Through their findings, the society discovered two soldiers buried at Lobb’s, Captain Thomas Walker and Lieutenant Alexander Beall, were sent to the area from Virginia by President George Washington to help put an end to the uproar of the Whiskey Rebellion. They died within a week of each other in January 1795; they were both 20 years old. They also found that a local man, Robert Jackson, died at age 54 after being struck by a train on November 5, 1886 on the P.V. & C. Railroad at Walton Station. Jackson had been intoxicated, laid on the tracks and fell asleep. He left behind his wife and 12 children. Certainly, there are more intriguing stories about the inhabitants of Lobb’s Cemetery waiting to be discovered.

But the rich history does not end there; the site was also the home to the first courthouse in Allegheny County, the Yohogania Courthouse. Erected in 1777, the round oak structure was situated in the upper corner of Lobb’s and also housed a jail. It was twenty four feet long, sixteen feet wide and two stories high. At the time Pennsylvania was still Virginia.

Also adding to the historical significance of the site is that, according to local lore, the site was once an Indian Burial Ground. ■

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