IN McKeesport Area

WINTER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

�McKeesport

Celebrates theSeason!

McKeesport AreaSchool District InfoInside!

Publisher’s Message | 2

FEATURES | OpenYour Heart to an Older Adult | 19

| UPMC Today |

Health andWellness NewsYou Can Use | 21

| Resolve to KeepYour Resolutions | 37

| IN KIDS | 39

| Have a Holiday Heart-to-Heart | 42

| DIY Holiday Cards |41

| WinterizingYour Vehicle | 46

| Those Unwholesome Christmas Memories | 48

COMMUNITY INTEREST | McKeesport Area School District News | 3

| McKeesport Area Military Heroes | 20

| McKeesport City News | 29

| Older Adults in McKeesport | 44GoodTidings for the Greatest Generation

ON THE COVER | Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus help usher in the holidays

at the McKeesport Parade.

44

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

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 The First Line of Defense

Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3 The Difference a Number Can MakeColonoscopyThe Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4 Be Happy and Healthy This WinterAre You Sad?Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5 New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6 When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7 Meet Our Physicians

Here’s to a Happy,Healthy Winter

If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

21

McKeesport | WINTER 2010 |

Contents

15

Please recycle this magazinewhen you are through enjoying it.

39

McKeesport | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

Welcome to our winter issue!At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking

that journey with us that was 2010.This year was one full of blessings for INCommunityMagazines, as we’ve

grown to serve 32 communities throughoutWestern Pennsylvania.While it’sbeen a challenge for us, it was one that wemet head-on, and with great success.For that, I would like to thankmy staff. I’d also like to thank two other groupswhomake this magazine what it is: you–our readers–and our advertisers.Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in

your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write-inwith your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents.We prideourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, thisis your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send inyour ideas to our editor [email protected], to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support with IN

CommunityMagazines. I’ve heard from somany of you that advertising with usis working for you, and I’m proud that ourmagazines are a great vehicle for you.But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supportingyour community. You’re giving those who read thesemagazines the content thatthey enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can beentertained and informed.So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third

glance at the advertisers who support your communitymagazine before youmake your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know andmake apoint to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something,they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe andhappy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer!

WayneDollardPublisher

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from the list makingand cookie baking for just a fewminutes to enjoy the informationwe havecompiled for this edition of McKeesport. As always, our goal is to offer a bitof insight into the community.Some of ourmost interesting features focus on residents and their passion in

all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holidayparties) please don't forget to let us know about any person or organizationwhoyou feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best storyideas and are so inspired by our readers!The amount of goodwill and charitable activity that seems to flow from the

McKeesport community is amazing and awesome.From all of us at INCommunityMagazines, we hope that your holiday will be

filledwith a gooddose of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’ll be surroundedby the love and companionshipof thosewhomean themost to you.

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

Every piece of the universe,even the tiniest little snow crystal,matters somehow. I have a placein the pattern, and so do you.

–T.A. Baron

IN McKeesport is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing, encouraging

and promoting the McKeesport area and itscomprising municipalities by focusing on the talentsand gifts of the people who live and work here. Ourgoal is to provide readers with the most informative

and professional regional publication in theCommonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Mark [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

[email protected]

WRITERS

Jonathan BarnesKelli McElhinnyPamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Bill IvinsCassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSusie Doak TamaraTylendaPati Ingold TraceyWasilco

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.comOneWay Street Productions

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell David MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers

Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel NegriTina Dollard Robert OjedaRose Estes Annette Petrone

Beatriz Harrison Tara ReisJason Huffman Vincent SabatiniJessie Jones Michael Silvert

Connie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee

This magazine is carrier route mailedto all district households and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in partwithout written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCEAll inquiries, comments and press releases

should be directed to:IN Community Magazines

Attn: Editorial603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317Ph: 724.942.0940Fax: 724.942.0968

www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring Issue Deadline: January 21, 2011

WINTER 2010

2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE McKeesport

McKeesport newsSCHOOL D I STR ICTAREA

�Clifford comes toGeorge Washington

Elementary!


I t is with great hope that you arereading this without the outsidetemperature hovering near the zero

degree mark. What a beginning to themonth of December! The time thus far thisschool year has passed quickly and wewill

be in the second semester in only a fewweeks. Graduatingseniors will shortly realize that their journey through theMcKeesport Area School District is coming to pass whileunderclassmenwill begin to anticipate what next year will bring.In the meantime, there is plenty of work to be done and thisinstallment of In McKeesport Area highlights many of thoseinitiatives and programming that our students are currentlyengaged in that make their time in our district so valuable.As the calendar moves into January, our district schools

continue to narrow their focus and activities in preparation of theupcoming PSSA testing windows. The district is poised to buildupon its successes of last school year as we aim for twoconsecutive years of making AYP. Students at both the middleschool and high school will be participating in the initialround of the Keystone Exams in the spring of this school year.Tests will be given this year in Algebra 1, Algebra 2,Geometry, Biology, Literature and English Composition withadditional tests becoming available next year. This year’seighth grade students will be required to pass four of the tenKeystone Exams in order to graduate while each subsequentgraduating class will need to pass six of the ten. Additionalinformation on the Keystone Exams is available in this issue of

INMcKeesport Area aswell as in themiddle school and high school.Included in this issue is information about our MASD Warmly

Cares drive to help keep children and families within ourcommunity warm throughout these winter months as well asrecap of our annual Veterans Day celebration. One of ourstudent athletes, Delvon Simmons, became the first in a line ofoutstanding football players in McKeesport Area history to beselected as an Army All American. Delvon was recognizedrecently at an assembly in the high school auditorium and willparticipate in the prestigious Army All American game to benationally televised on January 8, 2011.The building projects are under way! Construction on Francis

McClure has begun with an anticipated opening slated for August2011. The demolition of Cornell Intermediate is complete withconstruction projected to begin in the early spring months of2011. The third site, located above the Penn State GreaterAllegheny campus area, is progressing through theenvironmental and geotechnical testing processes. We willcontinue to update the public through various forums on all threeof the building projects.On behalf of the McKeesport Area School District

administration and Board of Directors, I would like to wisheveryone and their families a safe and happy holiday season.Thank you for everything you do for the children of our district.

Sincerely,TimothyM. Gabauer, Ed.DSuperintendent - MASD


McKeesportnewsS C H O O LD I STR ICT

AREA

Asthe temperatures drop, things in McKeesport Area School District are heating up! Our

District kicked off “MASDWarmly Cares.” This initiative will run throughout the winter to

collect winter outerwear donations that will be given back to our community during these cold

months. In the pages to follow, we are excited to shine the spotlight on students who have gone above

and beyond, making great strides within our District. Also, readers will get an inside glimpse of the new

Keystone Exams, events throughout the district, and the second year of our Administrative Academy.One of the biggest factors in the overall success of our students and our district will always be our abili-

ty to work in partnership with our parents and the community. We hope that you feel welcome in ourschools and that you will take advantage of opportunities to become involved, to learn more about yourschool district and to be a part of the many things that are taking place.Members of the school board of directors encourage parents and guardians to be actively involved, in

all areas if the district, by attending board and building level meetings. Board Meetings are held on thefourth Wednesday of every month. Sessions begin at 7:30 p.m. in the board room at the districtadministration building, located at 3590 O’Neil Boulevard in McKeesport.On behalf of the board, have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

Sincerely,Wayne N. Washowich

President, McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors

AMessage from theSchool District Board of Directors

Throughout all of the recent changestaking place in our District, DirectorKondrosky and I would like to takea moment to thank each and everyboard member for their continuedsupport. Steve and I are excited tocontinue to as President and

Vice-President of the McKeesport AreaSchool District Board of Directors for

the upcoming year.

Dates toRemember

Christmas break starts

on December 22

with a half day.

Classes will resume

on January 3.


School Boardof DirectorsJames L. BrownJoseph L. ChiaveriniChristopherA.HalaszynskiMark P. HoltzmanVice PresidentSteven E. Kondrosky

Dennis J. (Joe) LoprettoThomas P. MagliccoPatricia A. MaksinPresidentWayne N. Washowich

CentralAdministrationSuperintendentDr. Timothy M. Gabauer412.664.3612

Assistant SuperintendentDr. Rula S. Skezas412.664.3613

Business Manager/Board SecretaryMr. David M. Seropian412.664.3600

Director of HumanResources/AdministrationServicesMr. James G. Humanic412.664.3608

Director of Federal/State Programs(Homeless Liaison)Mr. Michael V. Matta412.664.3627

Director of SpecialEducationMrs. Patricia M. Tkacik412.664.3622

Director Food ServiceMs. Tammi T. Davis412.664.3685

McKeesport Area Contact InformationAdministrativeTeam

Special EducationSupervisorMr. David L. Listorti412.664.3625

Special EducationAdministrative AssistantMr. Menas E. Zannikos412.664.3624

District Grants andSpecial ProjectsCoordinator/Directorof Vocational EducationMrs. Patricia J. Scales412.948.1363

Director of EarlyChildhood Education andElementary CurriculumDr. Catherine S. Lobaugh412.948.1386

Secondary Curriculum andTransformationCoordinatorMr. Harry A. Bauman412.948.1310

Principal of Cyber School/District TechnologyIntegrationDr. Jane L. Coughenour412.948.1317

Communications/Public RelationsSpecialistMs. Kristen M. Davis412.664.3645

Director of Buildingsand GroundsMr. Edward F. Fagan412.664.3631

Technology CoordinatorMr. H. Ben South412.664.3764


GeorgeWashington Elementary's fall book fair tookon a new identity this fall, a superhero identity thatis. The book fair's theme "Reading Saves the Day"

celebrated Heroes, real or imaginary, but especially theeveryday heroes such as those who work in the community.Students were visited by Clifford the Big Red Dog and

members of the McKeesport Police Department, whostopped by to read stories, take pictures, and help thestudents pick out books.


AREA

Book Fair

Reading SavesThe Day!


Starting with the 2015–2016 academic year, studentswill now be responsible for passing the new KeystoneExams to graduate. “The Keystone Exams are an end-

of-the-course assessment to test proficiency in certain subjectareas,” says Harry Bauman, secondary curriculum andtransformation coordinator atMcKeesport Area School District.During this first year, the current 8th graders will have to

pass four tests: Algebra 1, Biology, English Composition, andEnglish Literature. The test is taken in two parts, each aboutan hour and a half long. The time at which each student takesthese tests can differ depending on when they take thecourse. Most students will take Algebra 1 in the 8th grade;therefore, they will take the Algebra 1 exam at the end of theyear, after they have completed the course.The Keystone Exams are designed to take the place of the

PSSAs, which all 11th grade students have been taking sincethe No Child LeftBehind Act waspassed in 2001.One advantage ofthe new tests is thatthe students willnot have to waituntil 11th grade tobe tested. “Thisgives the district abetter idea about

where the students are,”says Bauman. The test is said to focus on “depth of knowl-edge,” which, according to Bauman, adds challenge and rigorthat makes kids think.Like the PSSAs, the Keystone Exams will determine

Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for the district, whichmeasureshow successful the students and district are.“Ultimately, after the tests have been grandfathered in, the

Class of 2017 will not only be responsible for passing the coursebut six out of 10 tests,” says Bauman. Those students will have

The KeystoneExams are

designed to takethe place

of the PSSAs

to pass English Composition and Literature, as well as twomath, one science, and one history exam.Each student gets two chances to pass the test. If, after the

second effort, they fail, they are required to do a statemandatedproject. “This is usually an extensive project that includesresearching and writing,” says Bauman. The school districtswill be required to monitor the project, and one teacher mightbe assigned to monitor three or four kids. Once the project issubmitted to the state, they will decide whether the studentwill pass or not.“This is the state controlling how we give out diplomas,”

says Bauman. “They want to make sure all students walk outof here with the skills they need.”According to Bauman, some things still aren't nailed down

by the state. What has not been decided yet is whether thetests will count for 33% of the students’ final grade or if it willstand alone. “If the test counts for 33% of the final grade, itwill make it very hard for a student to pass the course if theydon't do well on the test,” he explains. “Were waiting to seewhat option gives the best advantage to our students.” Somestate officials are saying that schools may have the option tolook at each case individually and decide what is best for thestudent. The Department of Education is expected to makethe determination in the next two months.According to Bauman, now is the time for the district to

really start honing in on their skills. “You can't teach the test,”says Bauman. “You have to teach the kids to really think throughthat subject area. It's going to be a challenge, especially early on,but we know that we can get our kids there.”

Keystone Exams

IN McKeesport

Local ElementarySchool StudentSupports the TroopsBy Jamie Ward

Alycia Lefcowitz has spent much of her life helping soldiers. She heads upthe “U.S. Soldier Care Packages” charity at White Oak ElementarySchool. She came up with the idea on her own and collects all the items

to be donated. All of that is pretty impressive, but it's even more so when youlearn that Alycia Lefcowitz is just seven years old.

It all started with Alycia’s principal, Mr. Anthony DeMaro, told the students todo something nice for someone and then write a paper about it. Alycia took herassignment to heart and began something extraordinary.

First, she talked to her mom and learned that her mom works with a formerMarine. The Marine told Alycia about the basic things soldiers need like food,toothbrushes, toothpaste, and gel inserts for their shoes. Alycia wanted tohelp, so she packed a box and shipped it to Afghanistan.

That may have been the end of Alycia's summer project, but then she gota letter in the mail from one of the soldiers. It wasn't a long letter, justenough to say “thank you,” but it made Alycia realize what she had donewas very special.

“I was happy he liked it,” Alycia says, “and there was stuff that heneeded in there.”

From there, Alycia knew she had to do more. So she went to her school principal. “I askedDr. Woods if I could put a box in each classroom to be filled up,” says Alycia.

Dr. Woods said yes and the U.S. Soldier Care Packages charity was born. The Lefcowitzfamily put boxes in the classrooms and asked students to fill them with donations. When Alyciaand her parents collected the boxes in mid-November, they were overwhelmed by the generos-ity. The boxes were overflowing with food, toiletries, and other items.

“We are taking them home to package them for Afghanastan,” says Alycia's mother,Melissa. “Hopefully they will be arriving by Christmas.”

“It makes me feel like a nice person,” says Alycia. “They are going to be away from theirfamilies for Christmas, but they can have this from us.”

U.S. Soldier Care Packages is sending 26 boxes overseas, but Alycia plans to send more.And she hopes other students will be inspired to join her effort. “I hope this encourages peo-ple to do nice things for other people,” she says.

“She's a very caring little girl who thinks of others a lot,” says a teary-eyed Melissa. “Youcan't even imagine how proud of her we are.”

White Oak Elementary PrincipalDr. Tamara Sanders-Woods with

Alycia Lefcowitz


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McKeesport Area HighSchool celebratedVeterans Day with a

Multimedia Presentation honoring allVeterans. The event took place onNovember 10 at the High School. TheMcKeesport Band, Orchestra and Choirwere part of the presentation thatsaluted each branch of the militaryincluding the World War II MerchantMarine Corp.Veterans from the

community came outfor the event and enjoyeda special receptionfollowing the presentation.


VeteransCelebrating



AREA

Some students at McKeesport High School (MHS) arestepping out of the classroom for a more hands-onapproach to learning. The Administrative Academy atMHS takes a group of students on trips around the city

to learn about everything from mathematics to the arts.The Administrative Academy was started as an initiative to

raise student achievement. The project teamed centraladministration members with students who were in need ofhelp with mathematics. Twenty eleventh grade students whoscored average on their 8th grade PSSAs were identified by highschool administrators. Those 20 students had expressed hopesof increasing their achievement levels during meetings withthe principals.

Former Superintendent Dr. Michael Brinkos and the centraladministration team wanted to find a way to not only improvethe student's academic achievement, but also to build relation-ships with each student. From here the Administrative Academywas born.The administrators determined that “education was everyone’s

business,” and contacts were made to higher education institu-tions, the intermediate unit, local businesses, and other commu-nity organizations in order to form a partnership to embrace thisgroup of students.The Academy, now in its second year, under the control of new

superintendent Dr. Timothy Gabauer, held a kick-off breakfast atPenn State–Greater Allegheny Campus in late September. Thesecond trip was to the Carnegie Science Center, where the stu-

Administrative Academy


dents learned about buoyancy.Each trip will have a separatelesson plan relating to its use.Last year, students learned aboutarchitecture at Heinz Field andaccounting at PNC Bank.“Each trip we go on, about three

or four seniors from last year willcome along to be mentors,” saysKristen Davis, public relations and communications specialist atMcKeesport. “They can help out with the learning and buildupon what they learned last year.”The success of the Academy's first year was an inspiration to

the administrators. Davis says she really saw a change in the

students. “You bring a group of stu-dents from all different backgrounds,and by the end of the whole thing, itwas like a family atmosphere,” shesays. “The students were comfortableasking questions.”Davis says the students from last year

will still come up to her in the halls and ask things like,“What’s going on this year?” and “Where are you going next?” Thestudents involved last year took away not only a great experience, butuseful tools for their education. “They were able to take things theylearned on the trips and apply it on their PSSAs,” says Davis.This year, the group will be taking trips to two returning part-

ners—PNCBank and the Pittsburgh Super Computing Center—plus Penn United Technologies and Pittsburgh Public Theater.

Starts Its Second YearOur Vision

:

“Every child by name,

reaching core

academic proficiency i

n core academic

disciplinesregardless

of zip code, economic

status, race, ethnicity

of disability.”

-Dr. GeraldL. Zahorch

ak,

Pennsylvania Departm

ent of Education


S ixth grade students from Francis McClure visitedthe McKeesport Area High School TechnologyCenter to participate in their “Groomed to Grow”

program. The high school cosmetology students gotto use their skills during parent-approved activitieslike massages, manicures, haircuts, hairstyling, andfacials.The “Groomed to Grow” program shows sixth

grade students what opportunities are available atthe Technology Center.After a morning of pampering, the sixth grade

students had lunch prepared by the CulinaryArts students at the Tiger Inn.


AREA

GroomedtoGrow

The “Groomed toGrow” program atMcKeesport AreaSchool District


Warmly CaresAs the temperatures continue to get colder, the generosity is really

heating up in the MASD. The MASDWarmly Cares campaign kickedoff with its “Central Administration Family Tree.” The entire central admin-istration team pitched in and created ornaments for the tree, which is to bedisplayed at the McKeesport Festival of Trees.But that is just the beginning. Next up are two fundraisers: a clothing

drive and a penny drive. For the clothing drive, students placed boxes inevery building in the district for collection of new and gently used winterouterwear. Accepted items include: coats, jacket, mittens, gloves, scarvesand hats. Those who don't have students in the district but still want to helpout can drop off their donations at the central administration building. Itemswill be accepted until January 28. The new and used clothing will be donat-ed to local organizations.The penny drive is called MASDWarmly Cares Coins for Caring and it

benefits the less fortunate in the area. Kristen Davis, Public Relations

Specialist for the District says, “Jars will be placed in every classroom in theK-6 building, strategic places throughout founders hall and the high school”The drive is going on now through the end of January.The campaign started as a collaboration between Davis, Ed Fagan,

Director of Buildings and Grounds and Dr. Catherine Lobaugh, Director ofEarly Childhood Education and Elementary Curriculum. “We took the idea tothe The Superintendent, Dr. Timothy Gabauer, and once he gave us the O.K.,we took it and ran with it”, says Davis.The campaign doesn't just benefit those who will receive the donated

goods but is used as a learning piece for the Administrative Academy stu-dents. The students help by handing out fliers and placing the jars and boxesin the schools. Then, they will write letters to organizations like DicksSporting Goods asking for donations for Warmly Cares. “It's really a wellrounded project,” says Davis, “They participate in writing, public speakingand also learn the importance of giving back to the community.”

McKeesport AreaSchool District

“I think we’re alljust hoping tohelp the less

fortunate thisChristmas”




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McKeesport Area High School student Delvon Simmons wasselected by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl to play in the2011 Army All-American Bowl. Simmons and the rest of the

students chosen will travel to San Antonio, Texas, to play in the game onSaturday, January 8.“Delvon is a talented athletewhose exemplary leadership and teamwork

qualities have made him a standout at McKeesport Area High School,”said Col. Derik Crotts, director of strategic communications, marketingand outreach, U.S. Army Accessions Command. “The strength,dedication, leadership, and teamwork skills necessary to succeed onthe football field are the same qualities mirrored in Army strongsoldiers. We are proud to honor all of our U.S. Army All-AmericanBowl players and congratulate them on their selection.”Players are chosen by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection

Committee—Rivals.com, Tom Lemming, and All AmericanGames. Out of millions of high school football players, thecommittee nominates 400 to be considered, and then 90 U.S.Army All-Americans are ultimately selected.Simmons was one of the nation’s top 90 high school football

players chosen. Athletes chosen must be in good standing withintheir schools and communities. For years, the U.S. ArmyAll-American Bowl has been a launching pad for thenation’s future college and NFL stars. More than 34,000fans packed the Alamo Dome for last year’s game.NFL players Adrian Peterson, Mark Sanchez, Tim

Tebow, Michael Oher, and Terrelle Pryor all made theirnational debuts as U.S. Army All-Americans. In 2010, arecord 37 U.S. Army All-American Bowl alumni wereselected in the 2010 NFL Draft.Simmons's head coach at McKeesport, Jim Ward, who

will be joining him in San Antonio to attend the U.S. ArmyCoaches Academy and participate in game-week activities,says he couldn't be more proud of Simmons.“He’s worked very hard and he’s deserving of this honor,”

says Ward. “It's an opportunity to showcase his abilities andrepresent our city and school on the biggest stage in highschool football. He's really excited about it, and we’re excitedfor him.”The annual East vs. West match-up will be televised live

on NBC at 1 p.m. EST. For more information, visitwww.usarmyallamericanbowl.com.

McKeesport Area High SchoolStudent Named All-American


All-American

White Oak Elementary1415 California AvenueWhite Oak, PA 15131Office: 412.664.3790Fax: 412.664.3794Principal:Dr. Tamara Sanders-Woods

George Washington1818 Sumac StreetMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3770Fax: 412.664.3777Principal:Mr. Paul Sweda

Founders’ Hall3600 O’Neil BoulevardMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.948.1310Fax: 412.664.3768Principal:Dr. Karen Chapman

Francis McClureIntermediate School500 Longvue DriveWhite Oak, PA 15131Office: 412.664.3740Fax: 412.664.3747Principals:Mr. Anthony DeMaroMs. Pamela GordonPrincipal of Cyber School/District Technology Integration:Dr. Jane Coughenour

Centennial1601 Beaver StreetMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3750Fax: 412.664.3756Principal:Ms. Staci Fitzpatrick

McKeesport Area High School andTechnology Center1960 Eden Park BoulevardMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3650Fax: 412.664.3787Head Principal of Academics:Mr. Mark HoltzmanDirector of Career andTechnology Center:Mrs. Patricia Scales

Administration Office3590 O’Neil BoulevardMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3600Fax: 412.664.3638Superintendent:Dr. Timothy Gabauer


Building UpdatesCornell Elementary/Intermediate SiteThe Cornell site is currently entering into the bidprocess. Construction is slated to begin in the earlyspring months of 2011. Additionally, we are currentlyin the acquisition stages pertaining to the adjacentproperties.

Francis McClure Elementary/Intermediate SiteThe ground breaking event was held at Francis McClureon Thursday, December 16th at 2:00 PM. Every member ofthe board of directors was invited to kick-off the projectby using their ceremonial shovels in the ground wherethis exciting new project will take place.

New McKeesport Elementary/Intermediate SiteAt the new McKeesport Elementary/Intermediate site(Bucks Mansion property), the acquisition process isunderway. Additionally, the early steps of the PlanConprocess, geotechnical drilling and environmentalstudies are being done.


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According to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day.And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds ofstories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week

as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of UnitedWay ofAllegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania andNorth Hills Community Outreach.

“I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains,“but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.”

Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a weekand both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company.“Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere Ishouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh.

Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. Duringtheir mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives andshare advice.

“It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient,but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so muchout of it, and I come home feeling great.”

Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol sawan opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that givesher meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says ofher experience withMr. Ochs and other seniors she drives todoctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokesbut quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.”

Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking forvolunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little asan hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help withgrocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling andyard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could usesome assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol,families and groups are also welcome.

To learn more or become a volunteer, visitwww.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071.

“It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t sayenough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant forstorytelling, though, he probably could.

Volunteering bringsmorejoy than imagined.


Do youknow

someonewho is

serving inthe armed

forcesfrom the

McKeesportarea?

We would liketo honor theircommitment by featuringthem in this magazine.Please forward your name,the soldier’s name and wherethey are serving, along with a photo [email protected] us recognize these fine menand women!

My son, Denis GregoryClark, is in the Air Forceand is going to BaladAir Force basein Iraq in December.

He has been at GrandForks Air Force Basein North Dakota fortwo and a half years.

Submitted by JoanneClark, motherMcKeesport Resident

MckeesportMilitaryHeroes

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Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 The First Line of Defense

Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3 The Difference a Number Can MakeColonoscopyThe Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4 Be Happy and Healthy This WinterAre You Sad?Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5 New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6 When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7 Meet Our Physicians

Here’s to a Happy,Healthy Winter

If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

2 www.UPMC.com/Today

When you put together your New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to include a visit to your primary care physician (PCP).

Navigating the health care system without an established relationship with a PCP is like playing football withouta coach — you may have the ball, but no one knows what to do with it. Having a primary care physician is one of the mostimportant things you can do to ensurequality health and wellness for yourselfand your family.

With a PCP, you’re assured continuity of care from a doctor who knows you and sees the big picture, says David A. Harinstein, MD, an internist at UPMC McKeesport and Health First Medical Associates–UPMC in McKeesport.

“We’re the first line of defense in goodhealth. We look at the whole person, and we focus on preventing problems,”Dr. Harinstein says. “When a problemdoes arise, we coordinate the patient’shealth care and make sure everyone is communicating.”

The important role of your PCPAs your partner in health, your PCP:

• knows you, your lifestyle, and yourfamily history

• provides non-emergency treatmentfor common medical conditions from strep throat to bacterial infections and simple viruses

• maintains your health records • focuses on preventive care• screens for diseases or conditions

that may not present symptoms inearly stages

• updates vaccinations• checks blood pressure, blood sugar,

and/or cholesterol, and establishes regular monitoring if those numbersare high

• provides referrals to the right specialist or support program when needed

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

The First Line of Defense Start the year off right with a visit to your primary care physician

Finding a PCP Who Is the Right Fit for YouThere are several areas in which primary care physicians can focus:

Family Medicine: Physicians who typically treat patients of allages, from newborns to the elderly. Because family practitioners can care for the whole family, they havetraining in a number of medical disciplines, including internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology.

Internal Medicine: Physicians who treat adult patients, usuallyages 18 and up. Internists diagnoseand treat diseases in adults without surgery. They may have a subspecialty in a specific area, like the heart or lungs; a specific disease, such as diabetes; or a particular age group, such as the elderly.

Pediatrics: Physicians who care for and treat newborns, infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatricians focus on preventive care for healthy children and treat children who are injured or ill. They specialize in childhooddiseases, growth, and emotionalhealth.

1-800-533-UPMC 3

When caught early, colon cancer is beatable in nine out of 10 cases. That’s why everyone age 50 and older should have a colonoscopy, advises Sudhir K. Narla, MD, chief of Gastroenterology at UPMC McKeesport and director of the hospital’s Center for Digestive Disorders.

“The colonoscopy is a good preventive tool, reducing the incidence of cancer and increasing longevity,” says Dr. Narla, who recommends regular screenings (every 10 years for low-risk patients, two to five years for high-risk patients).

A colonoscopy lets your doctor: • examine the inside of the entire colon, looking for polyps and signs of cancer

• explore possible causes of abdominal pain and intestinal problems, such as rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, and diarrhea

• remove polyps or biopsy suspicious growths and send samples to a lab to check for cancer

New technology makes the procedure much easier. Thecolonoscopy itself is quick and painless. Patients are sedated andthe procedure normally takes about 15 minutes. For most people,the cleansing that empties the colon of stool prior to the procedureis the tough part — but it’s well worth the inconvenience for its lifesaving impact, says Dr. Narla.

For more information, contact the Center for Digestive Disorders at UPMC McKeesport at 412-664-2119.

Did You Know?

• Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. • Colon cancer has no symptoms (in most cases) and can be diagnosed at any age.

• Polyps (precursors of colon cancer) are found in one-fourth of all colonoscopy procedures.

• Having a colonoscopy can reduce your risk of dying from colon cancer by 90 percent.

Colonoscopy: The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call!

Many numbers are part of your dailylife, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressureThere’s a reason high blood pressure(hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damagesthe walls of your arteries, it also canwreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke.

When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal bloodpressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

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

200: Optimum cholesterolCholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substancemade by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which thencirculates through the blood stream.

To check your cholesterol levels, yourdoctor will ask you to fast before havingblood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, artery-clogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.

You should aim for a total cholesterolnumber (HDL + LDL) under 200mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.

Your doctor can help you learn and manage these numbers. To schedule an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

The Difference a Number Can MakeSee how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call

For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI),waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroidlevel, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.


Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

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

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles.

• Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warmwater is your best defense against germs. If soap and wateraren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product.

• Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available.

• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skinAs the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months:

• Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently.

• Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors.

• Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exerciseDon’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

• Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group.

• Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend.

• With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

Did You Know?• People with SAD are more likely to have a blood

relative with the condition.• More women than men are diagnosed with SAD.• Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve

stress and anxiety.

Be Happy and HealthyThis Winter

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, youmay be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring.

“Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease insunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman,MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute andClinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression.

In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience whatDr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains.

Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall.

If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severeenough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommendantidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy.

While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally,don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

1-800-533-UPMC 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Innovation at UPMC

Robotic technology revolutionizingWhipple surgeryWhen Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed aWhipple procedure, he started gettinghis affairs in order. He even consideredgoing without surgery. “It occurred tome that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith.

Although he left most of the worryingup to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize thesurgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine.

But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC CancerCenters to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology.

Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with thenurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says.* Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

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

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si SurgicalSystem, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a seriesof small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified three-dimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy,robotic surgery equipment allows formore natural movements, includingwrist function, explains Dr. Zeh.

“It has a 360-degree range of motion,which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into placeswhere your hand can’t go.”

The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail andmanipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

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

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for bloodtransfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner.

“We are pleased to be able to offer thisnew technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “Thedata shows that as a whole, patients whoundergo the robotic-assisted Whippleprocedure do as well as patients whohave the traditional open surgery.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducingfear in patients. According to Dr. Moser,as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor becausethey are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery.

“We hope that by minimizing thetrauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone withpancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.”

For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any ofUPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments,call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure

• smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need

for transfusion• less pain • shorter hospital stays• faster recovery time and

start of treatment


It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxedevening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm.

Thankfully, parents in the North Hills andSouth Hills now have convenient “after hours”access to the pediatric specialty care found atChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses.

“All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children

Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly thetypes of cases that the Children’s Express CareCenters are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti.

The Express Care Centers provide exclusivelypediatric-focused treatment in offices that arespecially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians,physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed.

“The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor.We also know how to interact with kids andtheir parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations

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

Children’s Express CareWexfordChildren’s North2599 Wexford Bayne RoadSewickley, PA 15143Phone: 724-933-3644Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Children’s Express CareBethel ParkChildren’s South1300 Oxford DriveBethel Park, PA 15102Phone: 412-692-3145Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re ReadyChildren’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help

The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including:

• animal bites• bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks

• colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses

• cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters

• ear, throat, and sinus infections• incisions and abscess drainage• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration

• rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions

• simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations

• splinting • cyst removalThe Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests,urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

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

Benefits of the Express CareCenters include:• access to treatment whenyour primary care physician is not available

• quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnessesand injuries for children and teens

• convenient locations• free parking• no appointments needed• referrals for further evaluation and treatment

• access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging

1-800-533-UPMC 71-800-533-UPMC 7

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

BRADDOCKInternal MedicineRadhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-351-6300Paul Donegan, MD ................ 412-351-6300

CLAIRTONInternal MedicineMadhusudan Menon, MD .. 412-267-6307

DUQUESNEFamily MedicineClifford Chen, MD .................. 412-469-3627Isaac Levari, MD .................... 412-469-3627Todd Zimmerman, MD ........ 412-469-3627

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

EAST McKEESPORTInternal MedicineSean Choi, MD ........................ 412-824-4015

ELIZABETHFamily MedicineJames Campagna, MD.......... 412-751-0200Edward Goralczyk, MD ........ 412-751-4661Irene Lomeda, MD ................ 412-751-4661Douglas Skinner, MD ............ 412-751-4661

FOREST HILLSFamily MedicineLaura Arnold, MD .................. 412-351-6090Clifford Chen, MD .................. 412-247-3222Gordon Handelsman, MD .. 412-241-7700Inna Lamm, MD ...................... 412-351-6090Isaac Levari, MD .................... 412-247-3222Douglas Skinner, MD ............ 412-247-3222

Internal MedicineSeetha Chandra, MD ............ 412-271-5220

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

HAZELWOODInternal MedicineJoseph Santiesteban, MD .. 412-462-1800

HOMESTEADInternal MedicineJose Caballe, MD.................... 412-678-7711Vera Sherman, MD ................ 412-462-6001

McKEESPORTFamily MedicineDaphne Bicket, MD................ 412-673-5504Tracey Conti, MD.................... 412-673-5504Essam Demian, MD .............. 412-673-5504Martin Johns, MD .................. 412-673-5504James Johnson, MD .............. 412-664-4141Harry Lanauze, MD................ 412-672-2877William Markle, MD.............. 412-673-5504Cathleen McGonigle, DO .... 412-673-5504Emeil Shenouda, MD ............ 412-673-5504

Internal MedicineRudolph Antoncic, Jr., MD .. 412-672-1000Rudolph Antoncic III, MD .... 412-751-4400Ibrahim Ghobrial, MD .......... 412-664-2782David Harinstein, MD .......... 412-672-1000Nadeem Islam, MD ................ 412-672-1000Reena Karnik, MD .................. 412-664-2782John Parry, MD........................ 412-664-2782Robert Pavlak, MD ................ 412-664-2782R. Curtis Waligura, DO ........ 412-678-7717

MONROEVILLEFamily MedicineKuang Ou, MD ........................ 724-327-0212

Internal MedicineDer-Long Tong, MD .............. 724-327-0212

MUNHALLFamily MedicineGordon Handelsman, MD .. 412-462-7700

Internal MedicineR. Curtis Waligura, MD ........ 412-461-2790

PLEASANT HILLSInternal MedicineKathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-877-7387

RANKINInternal MedicineRadhalaskshmi Aluru, MD .. 412-351-4555

SWISSVALEFamily MedicineKuang Ou, MD ........................ 412-351-3088

Internal MedicineRaja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-271-7333Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-271-7333Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 412-351-3088

TURTLE CREEKInternal MedicineElmer Apaga, MD .................. 412-823-7390Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-823-7390Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-823-7390

WEST MIFFLINFamily MedicineDarcy Giger, DO...................... 412-650-9700 Mamta Patel, MD .................. 412-650-9700 Lynn Potts, MD........................ 412-650-9700

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

WHITE OAKFamily MedicineElmer Apaga, MD .................. 412-672-8311Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-672-8311Louis DiToppa, DO ................ 412-664-0720Samuel Kupfer, MD .............. 412-673-8140Jan Pomiecko, MD.................. 412-678-8740Farial Rawji, MD...................... 412-672-3633

Internal MedicineRudolph Antoncic Jr., MD.... 412-673-5020David Arisumi, MD ................ 412-673-0214Joseph Caballe, MD .............. 412-678-7711David Harinstein, MD .......... 412-673-5020Mohammad Idrees, MD ...... 412-672-6800Nadeem Islam, MD ................ 412-673-5020Rahila Khwaja, MD ................ 412-673-0214Muhammad Mukhtar, MD .. 412-672-9000Prabhat Seth, MD .................. 412-678-0219

PediatricsKamlesh Pandy, MD .............. 412-673-2200Leslie Silberman, MD ............ 412-673-2200

WILKINSBURGFamily MedicineYee Ho, MD .............................. 412-243-4500

WILMERDINGFamily MedicineVeena Dhar, MD .................... 412-816-1818

Meet our GastroenterologistsRagunath Appasamy, MD .. 412-488-7474Samir Ayasso, MD ................ 412-621-7777Leonard Baidoo, MD.............. 412-672-5766Parth Bharill, MD .................... 412-232-7572Satish Kanakamedala, MD.. 412-683-2488Hossam Kandil, MD .............. 412-672-5766Pradeep Kumar, MD .............. 724-205-3318Wendy Mikulski, MD ............ 412-621-7777Sudhir Narla, MD.................... 412-672-5766Hitendra Patel, MD ................ 412-621-7777Vijay Singh, MD ...................... 412-672-5766Adam Slivka, MD.................... 412-672-5766Mahesh Varindani, MD ........ 412-828-0100Dhiraj Yadav, MD .................. 412-672-5766

UPMC McKeesport1500 Fifth Ave.McKeesport, PA 15132

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC.

This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

Time to Take Care of YouHolidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC McKeesport physicians’ offices are open and conveniently locatednear you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most caseseven offer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare,and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

McKeesportnews


McKeesport City Council appointed Regis McLaughlin as the new mayor on December 1. McLaughlin, 76, will finishthe remaining year of former mayor Jim Brewster's term. He was voted in 7-0 by the council, after Brewster's tearfulresignation speech on Wednesday.

“I was very excited, and very happy,” saysMcLaughlin, who wants to continue Brewster's plans for themunicipality but also has someof his own, including bringing new tax base to themunicipality as well as developing recreational sites in the community.

The continued development of the “brownfield” site and the flyover ramp that is currently being built to allow access to the IndustrialCenter ofMcKeesport “adds jobs and tax base back to the hub of theMonValley,” says City Administrator Dennis Pittman. ETQ andSolar Power Industries are the two companies slated tomove in next year and bring new jobs with them.

Plans to extend the Charles D. LickertMemorial Nature/Fitness Trail in RenziehausenPark, the addition of a dog park, and plans to light the existing youth ballfields are allprojects on the horizon forMcLaughlin.

McLaughlin is a life-long resident ofMcKeesport. After graduating fromMcKeesportHigh School in 1952, he served in the U.S. Army at Fort Knox, driving tanks.

McLaughlinworked atU.S. SteelCorporation'sNationalWorks for 30 years, serving as asupervisor for the last nine of those years until the company closed.The formerU.S. SteelCorp.mill site is now the IndustrialCenter ofMcKeesport, whichMcLaughlin plans tofurther develop.

Since 1991McLaughlin has been serving on theMunicipal Authority of the City ofMcKeesport (MACM).His first stint on council was replacing Councilman JimHanick,who had passed away. He has been voted into council in 1999, 2003, and 2007. In 2003,he was elevated to council president.

In 2005McLaughlin became chairman of theMACM, where has worked to keep up the Act 537 standards of the Commonwealth.He has also been involved in the source separation of rain water, the storm-water project, and the expansion of the plant to accommodateit. He helped position theMunicipal Authority to acquire theMunicipal Authority of Duquesne and is in negotiations to complete theacquisition of Dravosburg. His accomplishments also include assisting andmitigating Elizabeth Townships DEP compliance and theacquisition of a new river rescue boat that he plans to dedicate in the spring with the city ofMcKeesport’s fire department.

“Keeping the budget flowing” is whatMcLaughlin considers to be his main obstacle as mayor. Hesays he will keep an open-door policy with all employees. “Being with U.S. Steel for 30 years taughtme a lot about both sides—union andmanagement,” he says, hoping to create an environmentwhere all employees feel comfortable coming to himwith any problems.

McLaughlin, a widower, has one daughter, Deborah Bazzone, who is married and lives inClearwater, Fla. His granddaughter, Lindsey Bazzone, is in her fourth year of medical school atTulane University. His grandson,Michael Bazzone, is a graduate of GeorgeWashingtonUniversity and is living inWashington, D.C., working in the computer field.

McLaughlin is a member of the American Legion Post 361and has been an attendant of St. Martin De Porres Church inMcKeesport.

After a review of themost recent city council election results,the council approvedCouncilmanDaleMcCall to fillMcLaughlin’s vacant seat. Former council vice presidentMikeCherpkowill serve as acting president until council meets onJanuary 5 for a reorganizationmeeting.

“I want everyone toknow that I'm avery hard workerand very dedicated

to the city ofMcKeesport.”

— Mayor McLaughlin

Regis McLaughlinAppointed New MayorBy Jamie Ward

CelebratingtheMike Joyce

, Bill Bates

Mike Richey, Santa & Mrs. Claus,Jessica Rost, Dan Carr30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE McKeesport

McKeesport sure knows how to kick offthe holiday season! Families, friends and neighborslined Fifth Avenue for a perfect view of the community's“Salute to Santa” parade. Afterwards, children wereinvited to lunch with Santa andMrs. Claus at the Palisades,where they enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of holidaymusic, crafts, lots of goodies, and time to share theirChristmas wishes with Santa. Dorothy Kuharski was thelead organizer of the day's events, which were

sponsored by the city, thePalisades andMcKee's Cafe.Walt Y

ager with his

daughter

Holly and gran

dchildren

Cody, Kayla &

Ryan

Gavin & Chris Bosway

Ted Kuharski,Patrick MercurioHolidaysHolidaysMcKeesportnews



McKeesportnewsMcKeesport’s

Celebrates its Silver AnniversaryMcKeesport’s 25th Annual Festival of Trees took placeDecember 3 through December 7. 57 trees weresponsored by local business and non-profit organizations atRenzie Park's JacobWoll Pavilion. According to Pat

Harris, Chairperson of the Festival, “turnout this yearhas been really good.”

“We tried to make it a silver and white 25th anniversarytheme,” says Jim Brown, parks and recreation director.Brown, along with many other volunteers, has beenworking to put the event together since September.

The five-day event draws large crowds from theMcKeesport area who come to partake in the festivities.On the schedule for this year were “Sleighay Ridesthrough a candle-lit park” put on by McKeesportPublic Works, refreshments provided by McKeesportAlumni and Friends and entertainment provided byMcKeesport Band students and local singers.

Kids 12 and under were allowed to forgo theentry fee of $2 by bringing a canned good to bedonated to the Intersection.

Festival of TreesFestival


Pat Harris, Chairperson

of Festival of Trees

and Jim Brown,Parks and Red Dir

ector

Joanne Wakefield and Barb Procupfrom Joint Taskforce

Bill Barnes

of Trees

Shallow Gas WellLease HelpsCommunity


McKeesportnews

McKeesport is not a community to let opportunity go to waste, sowhen it was discovered that land next to Renzie Parkmight containshallow-depth natural gas deposits, city officials wanted to learnmore. JohnHazi, Senior Land Agent with PennecoOil Company in

Delmont, saidmoving forward on freeing that gas, if it indeed exists, is a fairlystraightforward process.“What we have is a shallow lease.We have a depth restriction that means we’re only

permitted to drill to a certain depth. This isn’t Marcellus Shale drilling, althoughMcKeesport would retain the rights to that,” Hazi said. “The site is 26 acres and,depending on howwe do with our surveys, we could be looking at two or three wells.”Hazi said the site would be fully surveyed, and permits and bonding would all be inplace so that the equipment can bemoved onsite. Over a 5-day drilling period, anoverall picture of the well’s potential will materialize. Then a fracturing, or fracking,process may begin, whereby services come in to crack the sand formations, allowingthe gas to escape. After the well’s completion, Hazi said, it’s hoped that it can be takentomarket with Equitable Gas.“If the well’s successful, we’d want to pursue it to its fullest potential,” Hazi said. If

the wells are successful, and the sites are found to yield gas deposits, the wells couldproduce gas for decades to come.“We’ve done some geological evaluation of the site, but we still don’t know 100

percent what we’ll hit,” Hazi said. “We’re hopefully looking at, conservatively,50 thousand cubic feet per day, or mcf. That depletes naturally over time andin 10 years, it might be say 35mcf per day and drop anmcf per year after that.Those are totally hypothetical numbers, but it gives people an idea of howthis process works.” Hazi said that Pennecohaswells on thebooks that are inexcess of 100 years old that still generate 5mcf per day.

Once those wells are totally depleted, they are plugged according tostate specifications, leaving behind, essentially, a vent coming out of theground. It’s a small reminder of the resources that that site has given up

through the years, andmakes shallow-depth drilling so popular inmore urban areas.Hazi said somePenneco’swells are located in thePennHills andPlum school districtsand on church properties around the region.InMcKeesport, the property may be added to Renzie Park existing 200-plus acres,

creating the opportunity for extended trails and even a dog park.“It’s very common nowadays,” he said. “It just so happens that these areas hold

some really good potential for gas that hasn’t been exploited in the past. We’re findingsuccess in these areas and always looking for drillable properties, especially throughouttheMcKeesport area.”


City of McKeesport

500 Fifth AvenueMcKeesport, PA 15132412.675.5020Fax: 412.675.5049www.mckeesport.orgMayor: Regis McLaughlin

Council:Michael CherepkoRichard DellapennaLorretta DiggsDale McCallDarryl SeginaAlfred Tedesco Jr.V. Fawn Walker

PPoolliicceeNon Emergency Phone: 412.675.5050

FFiirree DDeeppaarrttmmeennttMcKeesport Fire FightersP.O. Box 15134412.675.5021 or 412.675.5070

MMccKKeeeessppoorrtt AAmmbbuullaannccee RReessccuuee SSeerrvviiccee ((MMAARRSS))

Edwin Coulter, Chairman, McKeesportAmbulance Authority & EmergencyManagement CoordinatorEmergency Phone: 911Non Emergency Phone: 412.675.5076

White Oak Borough

2280 Lincoln WayWhite Oak, PA 15131412.672.9727Fax: 412.672.0760www.woboro.comMayor Ina Jean Marton

Council:Edward BabyakCharles DavisGeorge DillingerRonald MassungDavid PasternakKenneth RobbCarrie Verbanick

PPoolliicceeNon Emergency Phone: 412.672.9727

FFiirree DDeeppaarrttmmeennttssRainbow Volunteer Fire Company2916 Jacks Run RoadWhite Oak, PA 15131412.664.9523

White Oak No. 1 Fire Company1130 California Ave.White Oak, PA 15131412.664.4822

Borough of Dravosburg

226 Maple AvenueDravosburg, PA 15034412.466.5200Fax: 412.466.6027Mayor John Powell

Council:Jay McKelveyMichelle VezzaniWilliam Snodgrass, Jr.Barbara StevensonGreg Wilson

South Versailles Township

P.O. Box 66Coulter, PA 15028

Township Secretary: Carla BarronTreasurer: Carol HainesBoard of Commissioners:John WarabakWilliam HaywoodEdward Kulasa, Jr.Terry PayneDavid Stockett

Versailles Borough

5100 Walnut StreetMcKeesport, PA 15132412.751.3922Fax: 412.751.4430Mayor James FleckensteinJoel YeckelJames SheedyCheryl D’AntonioFrank BundaAnita Gricar

Serving the Mon


McKeesportnewsServing The Mon Valley


Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travelmore, or reduce stress, experts say that while ittakes time to develop a habit or behavior, theexpectation of changing that developed habitover night are basically unrealistic.

Studies have shown that little over 10percent of those engaging in New Year’sresolutions actually follow through with theirgoals. Success in achieving those goals stemsfrom taking baby steps, or realistic approachesto achievement.

Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness atRobinson Towne Center, said burnout is amajor factor in people not following throughwith their workout routines.

“Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control yourmotivation and enthusiasm so you don’tburnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaulyou’re entire workout program every two tothree months.”

Hardt also said that figuring out wherecardio exercise belongs in their routine also is

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout.

“Most people thinkthat starting out withcardio is good becauseit helps to warm upmuscles before weighttraining. Other peoplefeel starting out withcardio may cause toomuch fatigue, whichcould lower yourworkout intensity and make lifting withproper form moredifficult,” she said.“Truthfully, there isno right or wrong answer. Different people willneed to rotate their routine differently. Thebest advice is to pay attention to your fitnessgoals. If you are focused a bit more onendurance try to do your cardio first whenyou’ll have the most energy. On the otherhand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass

work the weights firstbefore cardio.”

Pursuing a healthierlifestyle is always a goodidea, and while manypeople make it their NewYear’s resolution to get backin shape, experts agree thatany health program shouldbe focused on progressive,attainable and realisticgoals. However it’s also a great idea not tooverindulge during theholidays in the first place.

Gaining 10 pounds afterpartying for a month,grazing cookies at the office

and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a loteasier than doing 30 minutes at the gymeveryday for two weeks to negate those calories.While it’s cliche, moderation is still the key to abalanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourself afavor bypassing that cookie tray or second glassof wine in the first place.

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s

resolutions actuallyfollow through with their goals.”

Resolve to Keep YourResolutionsThis YearBefore the last notes of“Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goessilent, chances are you’ll besuckered into making anotherNew Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.

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Adopt a Pet

It ’s the Holidays!Find each of these words in this puzzle.

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


Picture Perfect – Gettinga perfect holiday picture does nothave to involve a three-hour photoshoot with an expensivephotographer. Oftentimes the bestholiday shots are the candid, everydayones shot at home. For professional-looking DIY images, use natural light(if indoors, shoot near a window), getup close, and have the subjectsinvolved in a favorite activity. Laugh,have fun, and shoot away. Even if theshots aren’t perfect, use photo editingsoftware – sometimes just simplychanging the image to black andwhite or cropping out unwantedparts can transform the image.

Let Your Child Be the Artist – Instead of uploading afavorite photo for holiday cards,simply scan a child’s favorite drawingand quickly upload to a photo greeting cardsite. This is an especially cute idea forclassroom or grandparent holiday cards.

Collage Card – Instead ofspending hours deciding which photo tofeature for the holiday card, just chooseseveral photos taken throughout the yearthat highlight favorite adventures andmemories. Visit a favorite online card storeand select one of the many templatesavailable.

Keep It Simple – Scour thecrafting and dollar stores where there are avariety of inexpensive products to makehandmade cards. Use blank cards andembellish with just one or two items – anymore and it can be daunting, especially ifmore than 50 cards need to be made. Forinstance, punch out polka dots in festiveholiday papers using a circle punch andadhere them to the card front in a random,whimsical pattern. Or, run a piece ofgrosgrain ribbon across the front of card andadhere a glittered embellishment or button.

Use a Kit – For those who lack thecreative bug or are really strapped for time,use pre-assembled DIY holiday card kits.Cardstore.com has embellished card kitsthat combine the time-saving elements ofdigital photo cards with the personal, hand-crafted touch of dimensional accents. Orderthe photo cards online. Once they arrive,decorate the cards with the providedcoordinating stamps, gems, and glitter glue.Tips and creative inspiration included andno extra trip to the craft store needed!

Source: Cardstore.com

By following these tips, you can create easy, thoughtful and meaningful holiday cards that share the festive joys of the season.

Easy Ideas for CreatingCustom, MemorableHoliday CardsEven with the popularity of using e-mail, social media, and texting to communicate with friends and family,holiday cards continue to be a time-honored tradition. In fact, according to a survey from holiday cards andthank you cards retailer Cardstore.com, 43 percent of Americans prefer a greeting card from a loved one insteadof $10, and 63 percent think sending a special occasion greeting through a social network is inappropriate.

While survey results show most people prefer to receive holiday cards, people mistakenly think that creatingthese custom cards is time consuming. Thanks to technology, new products, and online greeting card sites, thisisn’t necessarily the case. By following the tips below, creating custom, personalized holiday cards can be easy,fun, and inexpensive.


Have a HolidayHeart-to-HeartLook at your family's past to prevent type 2 diabetes in your future

The holidays are known as a time for family gatherings, catching up with relatives, andsometimes even the occasional family conflict. Like drama at the holiday dinner table, inmany ways your health - for better or for worse - is influenced by your family. This year,why not start a conversation that benefits everyone? Gather your family health history.


- I have been told that I have polycystic ovarysyndrome (PCOS). - The skin around my neck or in my armpitsappears dirty no matter how much I scrub it. Theskin appears dark, thick, and velvety. - I have been told that I have blood vessel problemsaffecting my heart, brain, or legs.Losing weight by making healthy food choices

is one way to help reduce the risk of developingtype 2 diabetes. Serve your family a quick andhealthy dish like this as you gather around theholiday dinner table.Copyright (c) 2010 American Diabetes Association.From 15-Minute Diabetic Meals. Reprinted with per-mission from The American Diabetes Association. Toorder this book, call 1-800-232-6733 or order onlineat http://store.diabetes.org. Main Image: Photocourtesy of Getty Images. All materials courtesy of:National Diabetes Education Program

Why it's importantFamily history of disease is an important part of

understanding your risk for developing a numberof serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes.Diabetes is a serious disease that, if left untreated,can lead to serious health problems includingblindness, loss of limb, kidney failure, heart disease,and early death. In fact, most people with type 2 diabetes have a family member – such as a mother,father, brother, or sister –with the disease.The National Diabetes Education Program

(NDEP) encourages all families to gather their familyhealth history this holiday season and help prevent ordelay type 2 diabetes in future generations.By knowing your family health history, sharing

it with your health care team, and taking impor-tant steps such as maintaining a healthy weight orlosing a small amount of weight if you areoverweight, making healthy food choices, andbeing physically active, you can prevent or delaytype 2 diabetes (as well as other serious diseases)and help ensure that you will be enjoying holidayfamily gatherings for years to come.

Four questions you should ask The answers to these key questions could helpyou prevent type 2 diabetes in your future. 1. Does anyone in the family have type 2 diabetes?Who has type 2 diabetes?2. Has anyone in the family been told they mightget diabetes?3. Has anyone in the family been told they need tolower their weight or increase their physical activi-ty to prevent type 2 diabetes? 4. Did your mother get diabetes when she waspregnant? This is also known as gestational dia-betes (GDM).If the answer to any of these is yes, or you have

a mother, father, brother, or sister with type 2 dia-betes, you may be at an increased risk for develop-ing type 2 diabetes. Talk to your doctor and visitwww.YourDiabetesInfo.org to learn more aboutmanaging your risk and preventing or delayingtype 2 diabetes.

Your history affects yourchild's futureWhile you're gathering your family's history,

you need to take your own into considerationas well.Gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, is a

type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancyand affects about 7 percent of all U.S.pregnancies - or about 200,000 pregnancieseach year. If you had gestational diabeteswhen you were pregnant, you and your childhave a lifelong risk for getting diabetes.Women with a history of gestational diabetes

have a 40 to 60 percent chance of developingdiabetes in the 5 to 10 years after delivery.The children of pregnancies where the

mother had gestational diabetes are also atincreased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Women who have had gestational diabetesshould be tested for diabetes six to 12 weeks aftertheir baby is born, and at least every three yearsafter that. Mothers should let their child's doctorknow that they had gestational diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes

can lower their risk for developing diabetes bymaking an effort to reach and maintain a healthyweight, making healthy food choices, and beingactive for at least 30 minutes, five days a week.Keeping a healthy lifestyle helps mother and childlower their risk for getting diabetes in the future. For a free tip sheet on gestational diabetes,

including steps to reduce the risk of developingdiabetes, call the National Diabetes EducationProgram (NDEP) at 1-888-693-NDEP (6337) orvisit its website at www.YourDiabetesInfo.org.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk FactorsIn addition to family history and gestational dia-betes, there are other factors that increase yourrisk for developing type 2 diabetes. If one or more of the following items apply to

you, be sure to talk with your health care teamabout your risk for developing type 2 diabetes andwhether you should be tested. - I am 45 years of age or older. - I have been told by my doctor to lose weight.- My family background is African American,Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, AsianAmerican, or Pacific Islander. - I have been told that my blood glucose (bloodsugar) levels are higher than normal. - My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, or I havebeen told that I have high blood pressure. - My cholesterol (lipid) levels are not normal. MyHDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) is less than35 or my triglyceride level is higher than 250. - I am physically active less than three times a week.Have a Holiday

Heart-to-Heart Serves 42 8-ounce sweet potatoes, pierced in several areas with fork1/2 teaspoon ground cuminPaprika to taste4 4-ounce boneless pork cutlets, trimmed of fat

Topping2 tablespoons reduced-fat margarine2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest1/4 teaspoon vanilla, butter, and nut flavoring1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg4 small oranges, quarteredCook potatoes in microwave on HIGH settingfor 10 to 11 minutes or until fork tender.

Cumin Pork and SweetPotatoes with Spiced ButterMeanwhile, place a large nonstick skillet overmedium-high heat until hot. Sprinkle cumin andpaprika evenly over pork chops and seasonlightly with salt and pepper if desired. Cook porkchops 4 minutes on each side or until barelypink in center.In small bowl, stir together topping ingredi-ents until well blended. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise, fluff with afork, and spoon equal amounts topping mixtureon each half. Serve with quartered orangesalongside.Nutritional Information: Calories 335, Caloriesfrom Fat 90, Total Fat 10.0 g, Saturated Fat 3.4 g,Trans Fat 0.0 g, Cholesterol 60 mg, Sodium 125mg, Total Carbohydrate 37 g, Dietary Fiber 5 g,Sugars 22 g, Protein 24 g


Americans filing federal returns canexpect year-end tax planning to bea bit more complicated this time

around because we don't know what thetax rates will be for 2011 just yet. Thecurrent rates, known as the “Bush taxcuts” from 2001, are due to expire onDec. 31 of this year.

So when the new rates get passed,taxpayers won't have a whole lot of timeto plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vicepresident at Bill Few Associates says thatthe best plan of action here is to beprepared.

"For this year," said Marzina, “it's veryimportant that people be paying attentionto what happens in the political spectrumin terms of tax rates for the new year andto make sure you have your advisers linedup so when rates are set, you don’t wait.”

Each year, an individual is allowed togive a financial gift of up to $13,000 toany or as many individuals as they want towithout being subject to a gift tax. If yougive beyond this, you must fill out a gifttax return, which goes against the unifiedcredit amount that they are allowed togive at their death. Right now, this is notdetermined.

So you could give gifts of up to$13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not paya tax on it. According to the IRS, Youcan't deduct the value of gifts on yourincome tax return unless they are left to acharitable organization.

Federal estate taxes may have beenrepealed for 2010, but they are set to returnon January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55%on estates valued at more than $1 million.In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax onestates in excess of $3.5 million, and allassets got a “step-up” in basis whensomeone died. This meant that no taxwould have to be paid on appreciated assetslike stock and real estate. But under newlaws, all assets inherited may be subject tothe capital gains tax.

If the current administration'sproposal to allow rates to expire andreturn to 2009's rate, the “step-up” inbasis will return. Another proposal is tohave most of the current brackets stay butraise tax rates of the highest bracket, andtaxes on dividends and capital gains jumpfrom 15% to 20%. The Republicanproposal is to extend current tax rates fora period of two years and cap dividendsand capital gains at 15%.

Marzina says that the question manypeople are asking is, if you have assetsthat have significant capital gains built in,

should you accelerate taxes and sell thoseassets in 2010 to ensure a 15% tax rateinstead of waiting for 2011 and having therate jump to 20%?

The problem here is that taxpayerswon’t have a lot of time to make thesedecisions. According to Marzina, if thenew tax laws are in place by Dec. 1, there will only be a 30-day window tomake any decisions this year. So the bestthing to do is make those decisions asquickly as possible.

Good Tidings for the GreatestGeneration

Older Adults inMcKeesportTax Planning for The New Year by Jamie Ward


With the winter months approaching, it's time to put away the golf clubs andshort-sleeve shirts and break out the jackets. It's also time to start

thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3

Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's the numberone cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to

Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review some tips onkeeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a bettergrip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worsttraction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks andwalkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you aregoing, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you mayneed it. • If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and takingslower steps can reduce the risk of falling. And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around

your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control andPrevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icingcompound. If needed, as a family member or neighbor to help you.

SeniorAgencies How to PreventInjury this Winter by Jamie Ward


Mon-Valley Center/Boomer's Café 624 Lysle Boulevard, Senior CarePlaza–412.664.5434 401 Ninth Street–McKeesport412.664.5434New Traditions–412.664.5434627 Market St., McKeesport

Transportation For Older AdultsThere are several agencies thatoffer free or reduced ratetransportation services toindividuals who qualify.

Medical AssistanceTransportation Program (MATP)1.888.547.6287Provides non-emergency medicaltransportation to residents ofAllegheny County who have avalid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare MedicalAssistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for Senior CitizensThe Port Authority allowsAllegheny County residents, 65years of age and older, to ridefree on local public transportation(buses, trolleys and rapid-transit

lines). Participants must obtainidentification cards, which areavailable free of charge, fromparticipating transportationproviders. Call 412.442.2000 forthe location nearest to you.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984ACCESS is door-to-door, advancereservation, shared-ridetransportation provided throughoutPort Authority’s service area. Older Persons TransportationTransportation for medicalappointments, grocery shopping,senior center activities and otherneeds throughout AlleghenyCounty is available to adults 60years of age and older who live inAllegheny County. Call SeniorLineat 412.350.5460

Are you a nonprofit Senior Centerserving the needs of ourcommunity’s older adults?

We would be happy to post your contact information.Contact [email protected] with your center’s name and phone number.


Winterizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter

weather. But there are some things that are just good sense.

• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can getthicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start up times until your engine is properly lubricated.If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changingviscosity for the winter months.

• Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure yourwindshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extragallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiperfluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have

Don’t Let

A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual

furnace check, turning off anddraining outside faucets, andsome shrink wrap over their

windows. However, if you don’twinterize your vehicle, you may

be stuck in that comfy livingroom waiting for a ride to

come pick you up.

Winter Slow You Down


Winter Slow You Down

Call or stop in for a tourSpecializing in:

• Recuperation • Residential Living• Rehabilitation • Respite

A neighborhood nursing home filled with quality, compassion and genuine friendliness.

800 Elsie Street, Turtle Creek, PA 15145412-825-9000 www.lgar.org

a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blanketscan easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, icescrapers and extra gloves.

• If you don’t have jumper cables, get some!Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not onlyincreases the chances that you’ll find a goodSamaritan to jump a charge off of, you can alsobe the good Samaritan who helps others whomay be in distress.

Winter driving poses a multitude ofchallenges, but if you cover these basics, you’lleliminate a good bit of them. However, youcan’t eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keepan eye out for others on the road this time of year.

Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You RollingDespite the Conditions

�


Please submit your information,including a phonenumber and e-mail

information to: [email protected]

or call 724.942.0940

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