February 2009 - Allegheny West Magazine

February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 3

4 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Hill et al: Dyspnoea in COPD — Can inspiratory muscle training help?pressure being largely independent of flow rate (Nickersonand Keens 1982) such that manipulations in breathing patternto change inspiratory flow rates will not alter the inspiratoryload imposed by the device (Figure 3b) (Eastwood andHillman 1995). For this reason threshold loading deviceshave become a popular choice with which to train theinspiratory muscles. Generally, training programs usingthreshold devices have applied similar strategies to thosedescribed using resistive devices (Berry et al 1996, Larsen etal 1988, Villafranca et al 1998).Specificity of training related improvementsAs with whole body exercise performance, improvements inmeasures of inspiratory muscle function follow the principleof task specificity, reflecting the prescribed method oftraining (Romer and McConnell 2003, Tzelepis et al 1994).High pressure–no flow contractions yield strength gains,whereas high flow–low pressure contractions improvemaximum inspiratory flow rates (Romer and McConnell2003, Tzelepis et al 1994) and measures of inspiratory muscleendurance (Scherer et al 2000). Training protocols employinga combination of pressure and flow loads yield gains instrength, maximal inspiratory flow rates (Romer andMcConnell 2003, Tzelepis et al 1994), and inspiratory muscleendurance (Belman and Shadmehr 1988). Transfer ofimprovement from pressure-based training to flow-basedmeasures of endurance appears possible when the trainingload is maximised (Belman and Shadmehr 1988). While moststudies employing continuous (without rest) trainingprotocols prescribe loads between 30% and 50% of thebaseline maximum inspiratory pressure (Harver et al 1989,Lisboa et al 1997, Ramirez-Sarmiento et al 2002, Riera et al2001, Villafranca et al 1998), some report using training loadsas high as 70% or even 80% of baseline inspiratory musclepressure (Berry et al 1996, Dekhuijzen et al 1991). However,a recent study using an interval-based training programallowed considerably higher training loads to be achieved (upto 95% of the baseline maximum inspiratory pressure) thuspotentially maximising gains in inspiratory muscle function(Sturdy et al 2003).Effects of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory musclestrength and enduranceSeveral recent randomised controlled trials of inspiratorymuscle training employing protocols of repeated submaximalefforts imposed by external loading devices, report gains ininspiratory muscle strength or endurance in the experimentalgroup compared with baseline measurements (Lisboa et al1997, Ramirez-Sarmiento et al 2002, Villafranca et al 1998,Weiner et al 2000) or gains greater than those reported in thecontrol group (Larsen et al 1999, Riera et al 2001).Prescribing training loads as low as 22% of the previouslydetermined maximum inspiratory pressure appears capable ofimproving inspiratory muscle endurance, but not strength(Preusser et al 1994). It appears that training loads of at least30% of the maximum inspiratory pressure are required beforeimprovements in strength are achieved (Larsen et al 1988).This observation is in keeping with the conclusions of arecent meta-analysis of inspiratory muscle training thatdescribed improvements in both inspiratory muscle strengthand endurance when the analysis was restricted to studiesemploying loads of at least 30% of maximum inspiratorypressure (Lotters et al 2002).Studies comparing differing intensities of inspiratory muscleDyspnoea (TDI score)% change in PImaxFigure 4. Relationship between change in PImax and TDI inthe experimental groups following IMT for studiessummarised in Table 1a, using TDI as the outcome measurefor dyspnoea. PImax and TDI are expressed as the changein experimental groups above the change in control groups.= Scherer et al (2000)= Lisboa et al (1997)= Harver et al (1989)= Riera et al (2001)training in COPD demonstrate more pronounced gains instrength and endurance in those subjects training at the higherintensity, suggesting a dose-dependent response in trainingadaptations (Belman and Shadmehr 1988, Larsen et al 1988,Lisboa et al 1997, Preusser et al 1994, Villafranca et al 1998).In addition to the improvements in inspiratory musclestrength and endurance, structural changes in musclemorphology indicative of adaptation have recently beenreported following inspiratory muscle training in COPD(Ramirez-Sarmiento et al 2002). These changes included anincrease in the proportion of type I fibres and an increase inthe size of the type II fibres in the external intercostal muscle(Ramirez-Sarmiento et al 2002).Effects of inspiratory muscle training on dyspnoea andexercise capacityTo date, only six randomised controlled trials have reportedthe effects of inspiratory muscle training, when performed inisolation, on dyspnoea measured with the CRDQ, theBDI/TDI, or Borg scores at the end of exercise testing (Table1a). Of these, four trials utilised training loads that appearedlikely to yield gains in inspiratory muscle strength abovebaseline measures and also reported significant reductions indyspnoea during activities of daily living (Harver et al 1989,Lisboa et al 1997, Riera et al 2001, Scherer et al 2000). Thesefindings are summarised in Figure 4, which plots therelationship between the improvement in inspiratory musclestrength and the reduction in dyspnoea for those studies usingthe TDI. The association between these variables is strong (r= 0.94) although not statistically significant (p = 0.06),possibly because of the limited number of studies availablefor this analysis. The trend towards a significant associationsuggests that inspiratory muscle training protocols whichinduce greater improvements in inspiratory muscle strength174Celebrating 50 years of excellence — Australian Journal of Physiotherapy 2004 Vol. 50

REAL ESTATE TIPSMOREMONEY?MORE TIME!When you’re readyto sell your home inthe Pittsburgh area,how will you select a full-time real estateprofessional? I’ve already recommendedin previous columns that you should callaround, asking questions and answeringsome questions, too. Your greatestconcern may be your bottom line, but tosell in a reasonable amount of time, youneed to sell at a reasonable price.Avoid the temptation to list with anagent simply because he or she tells youthat they can sell your home for moremoney. Only with a completeComparative Market Analysis in hand canyou be sure that the full time professionalagent has thoroughly researched thevalues of homes that have recently listed,sold and/or expired.With that knowledge, you canconfidently price your home according towhat you know the market will bear, andin a range that buyers will findcompetitive. Of course, you can put anyprice tag you want on your home, butdon’t you want to sell more quickly at afair price rather than overprice and waitwhile your listing languishes on themarket?You could choose to list with an agentwho tells you that you can get moremoney, but you might be waiting a verylong time to sell at that price. Be upfrontabout your timetable for selling, and thenask for a CMA from a full timeprofessional agent to price your homeaccordingly.Bob Miller is a full time, full serviceprofessional residential and commercialRealtor® with Howard Hanna RealEstate. For answers to your real estatequestions and for a complimentarycomparative market analysis of yourproperties, please contact me.412.498.3664bobmiller@howardhanna.comwww.bobmiller.howardhanna.comwww.howardhannacommercial.comOURAdvertisersAs with every issue, your community businesses are the reason for the publication ofAllegheny West Magazine. Please support these businesses. Their support allows us tomail this magazine, free, into the households of Findlay, North Fayette, Oakdale,Sturgeon, and portions of McDonald as a community service.1/2 Off Greeting Cards, p.52, 724.695.1964A Door to Memories, p. 51, 724.630.1212,www.adoortomemories.comAllegheny West Eye Care, p. 21,724.695.3371, www.alleghenywesteyecare.comAunt Mini Storage, p. 9, 724.695.8700Beaver Valley Foot Clinic, p. 52,724.375.1577, www.bvfootclinic.comBenchmark Financial Services, p. 32,724.544.2071Bocktown Beer, p. 31, 412.788.2333,www.bocktown.comBody MatRx Fitness, p. 22, 412.787.1451Body Systems Fitness, p. 32, 724.695.5699,www.bodysystemsfitness.comBusiness Legal, p. 32, 724.693.0588 or412.257.2617, www.businesslegal.netCarol Leone Dance & Gymnastics, p. 39,412.262.1638, www.carolleones.comCenter for Organ Recovery & Educ.(CORE), p. 45, 1.800.DONORS-7, www.core.orgChoices Pregnancy Centers, p. 45,724.457.1220 or 412.264.0200Clearview Federal Credit Union,inside back cover, 1.877.LOAN.40,www.clearviewfcu.orgClearview Stables, p. 45, 724.693.9686,www.clearviewstablesinc.comClinton Wesleyan Church, p. 42, 724.695.7076Coccoli Development, p. 4, 724.457.1867Comfort Keepers, p. 17, 412.787.0709,www.comfortkeepers.comComfort Tech, p. 29, 412.788.8654Davey Tree, p. 45, 724.746.8852,Family Chiropractic, p. 19, 412.787.3320,www.familychiropracticcenters.bizFindlay Township, p. 18, 724.695.0500,www.findlay.pa.usFirst Steps Pediatrics, inside backcover, 412.788.1999, www.fspkids.comFitness for Life, p. 28, 724.695.2239,www.mkfitness4life.comFry’s Spiffy Dog, p. 41, 724.693.9392Grau & Company, CPA, p. 17, 412.264.5151Greater Pittsburgh Joint & Muscle, p. 52,412.444.4455Heritage Valley Healthcare-WA Health,p. 11, 724.695.2411Heritage Valley Healthcare, p. 5,412.787.5769 or 412.788.0901,www.heritagevalley.orgHoward Hanna-Bob Miller, p. 8, 412.498.3664,www.bobmiller.howardhanna.comImperial Tax & Accounting, inside front cover,724.695.7354Janoski’s, p. 52, 724.899.3438, www.janoskis.comK. Morris Landscape Design, p. 31,724.693.8663, www.kmorrislandscapedesign.comKovach’s Body Shop in McDonald, p. 45,724.926.8706Lazarowicz, Ken - CPA, p. 25, 412.299.7390www.accountants-cpa.comLaStone Therapy, p. 51, 412.809.9809Liechti, Attorney Fred, p. 22, 412.787.5280Luther, Dr., p. 42, 412.788.6300,www.pittsburghlaserdentist.comLutz, Connie-CPA, p. 15, 724.695.1957MTO Clean, p. 28, 1.866.21MAIDS,www.allegheny.mtoclean.comMeyers Plumbing-Tom, p. 41, 724.693.2880Montours Church, p. 49, 412.787.1050Moody Funeral Home, p. 50, 724.695.0411Niko’s Coffee House, p. 24, 412.329.6939Oakdale Foot & Ankle, p. 49, 412.787.8380Ohio Valley General Hospital, p. 12,412.777.6400Paragon Homes, back cover, 412.787.8807,www.VisitParagonHomes.comPA Distance Learning Charter School, p. 12,888.997.3352 or 724.933.7300Paws Here Awhile Boarding, p. 50,724.573.4665, www.pawshereawhile.comPgh. Airport Area Chmbr. of Commerce, p. 37,412.264.6270, www.paacc.comPittsburgh Points West, p. 45, 412.494.9203,www.pghpointswest.comPittsburgh Technical Institute, p. 9,412.809.5100, www.pti.eduPlay Academy, p. 53, 412.299.0616,www.play-academy.orgPolidor, Dr. Tamara, p. 38, 724.695.8447Pustover Financial Services, p. 39, 724.695.8885Rohm, Dr. John, p. 45, 724.695.2100Santiago Distributing, p. 42, 724.695.7289Shared Acres Community SupportedAgriculture, p. 11, 1.866.512.1452,www.sharedacres.comShell Station-Fast Eddie’s, p. 24Self Storage of North Fayette, p. 18,724.695.8875Sturgeon Volunteer Fire Department, p. 53,724.926.9149Thomas-Little Funeral Service, p. 39,724.926.2800Thomas Studio of Performing Arts, p. 52,412.787.7686, www.thomasdance.comToday’s Hair, p. 49, 724.695.0478Valley Presbyterian Church, p. 45,724.695.0300,www.valleychurchweb.comVerland, p. 10, 412.741.2578Vinarski, Dr. Irina, p. 3, 412.490.2500Wharton-Herrick, p. 41, 724.695.7732NOTE: We list eachadvertiser’s Web sitehere, too, whereavailable, to providereaders with access toadditional informationabout each business.8 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 9

Come to a Fish Fry at Local ChurchesThe Holy Name Society of St. Columbkille Churchwill sponsor a Fish Fry on Fridays during Lent,February 27, March 6, 13, 20, 27 and April 3 from4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Parish Hall on Route 30 inImperial. A variety of fish and shrimp dinners andsandwiches are available to eat in or take out,including the giant Columbkille sandwich with fries,coleslaw and cheese for $5.25. For moreinformation, contact the church office at (724) 695-7325.St. Patrick Church, Oakdale (North Fayette Township)will hold a sit-down Fish Fry on Ash Wednesday, February25, and every Friday during Lent, including Good Friday,April 10, from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the parishsocial hall. This year’s menu will include fish, shrimp,crab cutlet, French Fries, clam chowder, macaroni andcheese, coleslaw, cabbage and noodles, coffee, tea, anddessert. Takeout orders are available by calling (724)693-9664 after 11 a.m.Job Fair is February 11The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamberof Commerce will host the West Hills JobFair on Wednesday, February 11 from10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Radisson HotelPittsburgh Greentree.All job seekers will be admitted freewith a copy of their resumes.Companies are invited to reserve atable to advertise their job opportunities,recruit prospective employees, andmeet other local businesses.Registration includes a table andchairs, on-site interview space, vendorhospitality room, free parking, and theoption to receive a copy of allattendees’ resumes.For more information, call(412) 264-6270.Free Consultationsfor EntrepreneursThe University of Pittsburgh SmallBusiness Development Center, under theauspices of the Joseph M. Katz Schoolof Business, is making available to areaentrepreneurs a free service at theoffice of State Senator Wayne Fontana inKenmawr Plaza, 524 Pine Hollow Road,Kennedy Township.On March 17, consultants from thecenter will be available to helpentrepreneurs with such skills asfinancial organization, planningstrategies, and management techniques.For more information, call (412) 331-1208.DEADLINE FORTHE APRIL 2009ISSUE OFAllegheny WestMagazine isMARCH 15thhelping others . . .GIRL SCOUT COOKIE SALEThe annual Girl Scout cookie sale takes to the streets this month. Booth sales are being heldaround the community from February 28 - March 15. Price for each box of cookies this year is$3.50.Purchasing Girl Scout cookies from local troops in the West Allegheny area helps scouts inkindergarten through grade 12 learn goal setting, budgeting, marketing, customer service, publicspeaking, and planning. Funds help Girl Scouts with their programs and activities, as well ascamping outings, field trips, and other expenses associated with the program.To learn more, call the local scouting organization at (724) 693-8493.RACE TO THE TOP FOR LUNG DISEASERace to the top of the Gulf Tower in downtown Pittsburgh to raise funds for lung disease,hosted by the American Lung Association on Saturday, March 28. To register, visitwww.climbpittsburgh.lunginfo.org, or call Rita Lengvarsky at (724) 933-6180 x 225.ACCESS CARD HOLDERS ELIGIBLE FOR $1 ADMISSIONPennsylvania residents holding ACCESS cards can visit any of the four Carnegie Museums forone dollar admission each. They are Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of NaturalHistory, Carnegie Science Center, and the Andy Warhol Museum.The program allows low-income families, seniors, at-risk children, and residents with disabilitiesto enjoy these institutions at this significantly reduced cost.PANCAKE BREAKFAST TO HELP TASK FORCE FOR SENIORSThe Affordable Senior Housing Task Force is holding a Pancake Breakfast fundraiser onSaturday, March 14 from 7 to 11 a.m. at Valley Presbyterian Church, 237 Main Street, Imperial.The fundraiser is to raise money for a market survey study to obtain affordable senior housing inthe West Allegheny community.For more information, contact Reverend Dr. Cindy McClung at (412) 720-9241 (cell).GREETING CARD FUNDRAISER BENEFITS“JUSTICE FOR MIKE” EFFORT TO RESTORE LEGAL JUSTICEA greeting card fundraiser, featuring a variety of cards for every season, event, and holiday by amajor card manufacturer, is now ongoing. Choose from thousands of beautiful cards that are justthree for one dollar. All proceeds benefit www.justiceformike.net to help with legal fees. For anappointment to shop for cards, call (724) 695-1964. Additionally, donations can be made to“Justice for Mike” at a bank account set up at First Commonwealth Bank in Imperial under the nameof Mary Ann Lubas. In the memo line, note, “Justice for Mike.” To learn more, visit the Web site,www.justiceformike.net.ATTENTION RESIDENTS . . .The West Allegheny Food Pantry wishes to remind those whobring donations to the store and the Thrift Shop to refrain frombringing items such as television sets and furniture to the site.Director Geri Hermann said that such donations are not ableto be used and create a problem for the volunteers, who haveno way of disposing of these items.“We are grateful to the community for their donations;however, we are not a drop off site for these types of items,”she stressed.To reach the Food Pantry, call (724) 695-1305.10 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Pennwriters Conference Coming in MayNew York TImes best-selling author Lisa Scottoline will deliver the Friday eveningkeynote address at Pennwriters 22nd annual writers’ conference, scheduled for May 15-17 at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott.The multi-genre conference will feature more than 30 workshops in three tracks ofsimultaneous sessions for both aspiring and published authors of fiction and nonfiction,as well as genre-specific read-and-critique sessions.Pittsburgh author and poet Timons Esaias, who is an adjunct faculty member in SetonHill University’s master’s in writing popular fiction program, will speak at the Saturdayconference luncheon.Attendees will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one to pitch their manuscripts toliterary agents Lucienne Diver of the Knight Agency, Colleen Lindsay of Fine PrintLiterary, Paige Wheeler of Folio Literary Management, Uwe Stender of TriadaUS andBecca Stumpf of the Prospect Agency, as well as editors Esi Sogah of Avon Books andMatt Holliday of “Pennsylvania Magazine.”The registration fee of $214 for Pennwriters members and $24 for non-memberscovers tuition for the three-day conference, read-and-critique session and agent oreditor appointment, Saturday breakfast and lunch, and a copy of Scottoline’s April 2009hard-cover release, “Look Again.” The cost for the Friday keynote dinner is $49 formembers and $55 for non-members. Registration deadline is April 17. Read-andcritiquesessions and agent/editor appointments are available in limited numbers on afirst-registered, first-assigned basis.For more information or to register, visit www.pennwriters.com, e-mail toconferenceco@pennwriters.com, or call (724) 255-7955.Pennwriters Inc. is a nonprofit organization with more than 450 members fromPennsylvania and other states. The organization’s annual conference location alternatesbetween eastern and western Pennsylvania from year to year.Women’s Small Business Expo in MarchThe Pittsburgh Force, the NEW women’s full contact football team in Pittsburgh, ishosting a Women’s Small Business Expo on Sunday, March 22 at the Robert MorrisUniversity Sewall Center located in Moon Township.All women business owners and/or managers are welcome to register to participatein the Expo.The Women’s Small Business Expo is designed to provide a marketplace for womenentrepreneurs to market their products and services, network with other women, andshowcase the creativity of the women of Pittsburgh.Featured speaker at the Expo will be Jennifer Antkowiak, speaking on “Take CareTips,” her new book that offers 101 ten-minute tips on how to care for yourself whilecaring for others.For information about the Expo, call (412) 583-5774 or visit the Web site atwww.pittsburghforce.net.Valley MOPS Invites Moms to Join InValley MOPS, the Mothers of Preschoolers group located at Valley PresbyterianChurch on Main Street, Imperial, invites moms with babies to toddlers to come andenjoy a respite from the long winter days indoors.The group meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 9 to 11:15a.m. at the church.Bring the children, as Moppets are available to babysit during the meetings.Enjoy a morning of rest, nurturing, fellowship, and crafts.MOPS was created more than 25 years ago to give mothers of infant to kindergartenage children a morning out.For more information, contact Tara at (724) 695-3269 or Stephanie at(724) 695-7963.Physical Exams for West AlleghenyAthletes are Scheduled for February 18Physical exams for West Allegheny School District Middle School and High Schoolstudents wishing to participate in interscholastic sports during the spring of 2009 havebeen scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the high schoolnurse’s suite. All athletes who have not had a fall or winter sport physical must haveone completed prior to the start of the spring sports season, which officially begins onMarch 2.Reservations for a physical can be made by calling (724) 695-5247.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 11

Return Your Lifeback to NormalAt the Instute for Pain Diagnoscs and Care, our team willdevelop a muldisciplinary treatment plan for you to help getback to doing the acvies that you enjoy. And mostimportantly, help relieve your debilitang and chronic pain.Some conditions we treat:Low back pain, neck pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, compressionfractures, post-laminectomy pain syndrome (connued pain aer back surgery).We’re ready to see you now. Once youcross our threshold, you’ll be one stepcloser to enjoying your life the way itused to be.Located conveniently in KennedyTownship. Free parking is available.Call 412-777-6400 toschedule an appointment.Now Accepting New PatientsBus Passes Available for Persons with DisabilitiesDisabled persons interested in the Disability Reduced Transit FareProgram should submit a Reduced Transit Fare application. Theseapplications are available at the Airport Corridor TransportationAssociation offices at Route 60 and Park Manor Boulevard, Pittsburgh,PA 15205.A brief statement on company letterhead from the agency or physicianwho completed the application is needed to verify the applicant qualifiesfor the program.Questions regarding the application process should be directed to thePort Authority Service Center - Downtown at (412) 255-1356.ACTA Honors Individuals andBusinesses at its Annual MeetingACTA held its annual meeting on February 6 with featured speaker, AllenD. Biehler, the Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation. He is alsopresident of the American Association of State Highway andTransportation Officials, with strong roots in western Pennsylvania, havingspent 17 years with the Port Authority of Allegheny County and 12 yearsin city and county government.At the annual meeting, ACTA presented its annual awards.Former Moon Township manager, Greg Smith, was presented with theLifetime Achievement Award, and the Montour Trail Council, Findlay andNorth Fayette Townships jointly received an award for their efforts to installsafety measures at the trail crossing along Cliff Mine Road. Additionally,County Executive Dan Onorato accepted an award on behalf of AlleghenyCounty for the successful completion and adoption of “Allegheny Places, thefirst countywide comprehensive plan.A complete announcement of all recipients will be published in the nextissue of “Allegheny West Magazine.”The he Commuter uter Store e is open Monday y through Fridariday.*.*Hours s are e 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m..m. (*Thurhursdasday y hours s are e 11a.m. - 5 p.m.).The he Commuter uter Store e is closed onweekeekendsends. Buy merchandisehandise, bus us passes, and more e here!e!InquireAbout Our On-LineSummer School!.Robinson Plaza Two, Route 60 & Park Manor DriveSuite 420, Pittsburgh PA 15205(412) 809-3505, Fax: (412) 809-3509www.acta-pgh.org12 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

BY PAT JENNETTEPull out those walking shoes, boots, or whatever youconsider the best footwear to put on and get walking!Yes, it’s winter time, yet this time of year is just aseasy to walk as any other season.We’ve done some homework on the places where youcan get those feet in gear while you wait for spring toreturn.At the time this issue went to press, we were just 45days from the official spring season. Just imagine, ifwe all walked 30 minutes each day of those remainingwinter days, we could clock off 20-24 hours of walkingbefore the season changes!According to the American Council on Exercise(ACE), walking also improves bone mass.Compared to non-exercisers in a study ACE oversaw,regular exercisers increased their bone mass byabout two percent.Walking helps strengthen bones because it forcesthe body to bear weight, eliciting even greater gains inbone density, which helps women lower their risk ofdeveloping osteoporosis.And, just a half an hour of moderate walking, or twomiles per day, can help a person burn approximately200 calories a day.So, if one were to calculate 200 calories burned dailyover the remainder of winter, it’s an easy way to losesome pounds (each pound is 3,500 calories), while alsotoning the body, improving bone mass, and buildingendurance.Thanks in part to the research undertaken by theAirport Corridor Transportation Association (ACTA),when they launched Ready, Set, Walk last summer, andresearch some of our staffers undertook (several of usare avid walkers), we’ve combined all of these resourcesand created this Allegheny West walking guide.Happy hoofing!RIDC PARK WESTThe route begins on Industry Drive in Findlay Townshipat the Dick’s Sporting Goods corporate headquarters.Enjoy the paved walkway for the duration of thistrip. It’s a largely level and slightly rolling terrain, andmakes for a pleasant walk, especially on weekends,when there is virtually no traffic through the park.Take Industry Drive to the intersection of CommerceDrive, then turn left and go half a mile down CommerceDrive to Cliff Mine Road. Ending here, it’s a 1.5-milewalk one way. To continue on, cross over Cliff MineRoad and enter the Montour Trail. Or, for those wantinga more strenuous workout, turn around and headback up Commerce Drive for the ultimate aerobicchallenge.THE MALL AT ROBINSONEntrance K at the rear of the mall is open weekdaysfor walkers from 7 to 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday,and 8 to 10 a.m. Sunday.Lockers are available in the corridor to stash coatsFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 13

ACTA offers these suggestions whenwalking where there is traffic:When crossing at crosswalks, use anoutstretched arm directed towards the driver.Wear light-colored clothing and/or carry aflashlight when it is dark.Cross streets directly from curb to curb, usingthe shortest path possible. Remember, whencrossing mid-block without a crosswalk,walkers must yield to bicycles and cars.A flashing red hand or “don’t walk” signalmeans don’t start crossing the street; but, ifyou have already begun to cross, you have theright of way and should finish crossing.If there are no pedestrian signals, use thetraffic signals to help you cross.Look ahead or over your shoulder for driversturning left. These motorists are four timesmore dangerous to pedestrians than motoristssimply going straight.and items.Turn right into the main mall corridor, lower level, and walk thecomplete loop of the lower level of the mall.Then take the escalator near Sears to the upper level. Turn rightoff the escalator and stay left throughout the food court and mallcorridors.There are mile markers along the route. However, one completionof both upper and lower levels equals 2,000 steps, or approximatelyone mile.The Mall at Robinson also offers its Mall Walkers club. Visitwww.shoprobinsonmall.com for details.SETTLERS CABIN PARKThree loops each provide a different walking experience in thepark. The Blue Loop, Green Loop, and Purple Loop are blazed trails,meaning there are paint marks on trees next to the trails which areto be following when walking or hiking. A double blaze indicates atrail intersection or a sudden turn.The most visible loop is the Blue Loop, which begins at the tenniscourt parking lot and winds past the Tomahawk Shelter, behind theArrowhead and Iroquois shelters, and returns to the tennis court lot.It’s a two-mile trek, as is the Green Loop. The Purple Loop is 1.4miles.Short on time? A quicker walk is to start near the gates at the parkentrance and walk the paved portion down Papoose Drive to the “T,”then bear left onto Tepee Drive, looping around and returning to thepark entrance.ROBINSON TOWN CENTREWhy not simply walk the sidewalk from one end to another andback again? It’s a fun way to do some window shopping and, if youget cold, stop in any of the small cafes or restaurants for a quick cupof something warm to drink. Then, keep walking!.THE MONTOUR TRAILThe trail (www.montourtrail.org) starts at mile marker “0” near theMoon Township/Coraopolis border, and heads west. Walkers can geton the trail at the Hassam Road parking area (mile 1.4), BeaverGrade Road access area (mile 3.1), the gazebo by Park Manor Road(the road leading up to the mall complex) (mile 4.1), McClaren Road-Enlow ballfield parking area (mile 7.6), the Boggs parking area (mile11.5) and the Quicksilver parking area (mile 14.6). The trail continuesthrough McDonald, Cecil, and beyond, although those distancesare more appropriate for bicyclists rather than walkers.AND . . .The school districts have excellent outdoor tracks at their footballfields. West Allegheny has a marked trail on the perimeter of thehigh school/middle school complex. Or, try a stroll in Clinton Park(there is even a fitness trail to follow), the numerous trails at RaccoonCreek State Park, the indoor gym at the North Fayette CommunityCenter, or in many of the community housing plans such asWestbury and Walden Woods.There are other indoor alternatives -- area gyms have eitherwalking tracks or treadmills, and there’s that old standby -- thetreadmill in the basement.Of course, if you’re walking and moving, where you do it doesn’treally matter!(For more information, visit www.thewalkingsite.com.)14 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Sweetwater Jazz Series ReturnsSweetwater Art Center in Sewickley brings its jazz series back for the fourth year in arow, sponsored by Clearview Federal Credit Union.The events are held on Fridays in February from 6 to 8 p.m. with complementarywine and hors d’oeuvres in Sweetwater’s intimate night club setting.Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door for members, $12 in advance or $15at the door for non-members.Remaining performances are February 13, 20, and 27.For information, call (412) 741-4405 or visit the Web site,www.sweetwaterartcenter.org.Storkbites Support Group Sets MeetingsStorkbites is a support group for mothers with babies under one year of age. Thebaby comes to the meeting with mom where moms can talk with other mothers who aregoing through this amazing and life-changing experience.Upcoming meetings are: February 24; and March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31.A Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group is also offered on March 9.For information, call Heritage Valley-Sewickley, at (412) 749-7625.St. Clair Offers Health Information ProgramsSt. Clair Hospital will host a family birth center tour on February 28 at 10 a.m.Prior to the tour, the hospital will offer “Mothers and Daughters: Growing andChanging Class,” on February 25 at 6 p.m., “Infant & Child CPR Class” on February16 from 7 to 10 p.m., “Baby Basics” on February 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and“Introduction to Breastfeeding” on February 18 from 7 to 9 p.m.Additionally, St. Clair offers a variety of support groups which include MentalHealth, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Pregnancy Loss, Smoking Cessation,, PulmonaryEducation, and more.Classes are available on nutrition and diabetes, and free community bloodpressure screenings are held regularly.For more information on these and other programs, call (412) 942-6294.St. Clair will also sponsor a free program on Postpartum Depression on Tuesday,February 17 at 6 p.m. Keynote speaker is Dr. Katherine L. Wisner, professor ofpsychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology, and epidemiology, from the University ofPittsburgh, who is known throughout the country as a leading expert in postpartumdepression treatment and research.In addition, Lisa Madras, a writer with the “New Castle News,” will discuss herpersonal experiences with postpartum depression.To register or for more information, call (412) 942-5881.High School Artists ExhibitCreative Works at Visions and Voices 2009Pittsburgh Technical Institute unveils the seventh annual Visions and Voices highschool student show on Saturday, February 28, with an opening reception from 11 a.m.to 1 p.m. in the Gallery at PTI’s North Fayette campus.Students in grades 9 through 12 may submit original work in the categories of fineart, computer graphics, photography, ceramics, drafting, metalwork/jewelry, multimedia/video, and multimedia/web to compete for Best of Show and Best of Category cashprizes.All top finishers receive a certificate of recognition as determined by a jury ofprofessionals. A People’s Choice Award is selected by show attendees through its March27 run.For information, to register, or to see last year’s 38 winning entries, visit ‘Events’ onPTI’s Web Site, www.pti.edu.The participation deadline is Saturday, February 14.Last year’s show featured 710 entries submitted by 319 artists from 64 high schoolsin five states. Megan Bailey of West Allegheny High School won an honorable mentionfor her photograph, “Out to Dry.”The opening reception coincides with Art Careers Exploration Day, an opportunity foryoung artists to interact with professionals, discuss careers, and gather feedback.Careers represented have spanned a variety of artistic fields: painters, sculptors,tattoo artists, pastry chefs, illustrators, videographers, and graphic and web designers.Questions regarding this year’s event can be directed to Susan Rosa, PTI Director ofVisual Communications, at 1.800.748.9675 or by e-mail to: rosa.susan@pti.edu.ABOVE: Megan Bailey from West Allegheny High School was a runneruplast year in the annual Visions and Voices art competition hosted byPittsburgh Technical Institute.Send a bit of “home” to someone you know!Subscribe to Allegheny West Magazine!Subscription rates are just $12 per year for sixissues! CALL: 724.695.3968 ore-mail: alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.netFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 15

Thiel Choir, Back from Europe, to PerformThe Thiel College Choir, back from its international tour to Austria and Italy, willperform on Saturday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 618Russellwood Avenue, McKees Rocks. Admission is free; and a free will offering will beaccepted.Pastor Emilie Theobald-Rowlands of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Hankey Farms isa former member of this choir.For more information, call (412) 771-1993.Join the Biggest Loser Contest at Body SystemsBody Systems Fitness in Imperial Plaza, Imperial, has launched a Spring 2009 BiggestLoser Contest this winter.Participants are welcome to sign up to be part of the team effort to see who can losethe most pounds between now and May.Prizes are being collected from area businesses to award participants that lose themost weight.The contest is running for 13 weeks and weekly results will be posted on the BodySystems Fitness Web site at www.bodysystemsfitness.com.To sign up as a participant, or to donate a prize, call Denise Sinkavich, director ofsales and marketing, at (724) 695-5699.McKee Elementary to Host Fashion ShowMcKee Elementary School PTA will present its first spring fashion show and fundraiser,“It’s a Small World,” on Sunday, March 15 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in MoonTownship.WPXI’s chief meteorologist, Julie Bologna, will emcee the event, which will feature newspring fashions modeled by students, parents, and teachers. Fashions will be featuredfrom local retailers, including Justice for Girls, Dress Barn, Jos. A. Banks, and Old Navy.The event includes a sit-down luncheon, silent auction, Chinese auction, 50-50 prizedrawings, and an envelope game. The Chinese auction will include classroom giftbaskets of items donated by school families. The baskets will fit the “Small World”theme, featuring items from around the world -- Italy/Greece, Spain/Mexico, and theU.S.A., to name a few.Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and lunch will begin at 1 p.m. Fashions and prizeannouncements will follow.Donations for silent auction items are currentlybeing collected from area businesses, inexchange for publicity in the show’s printedprogram. Donations may be sent to MelanieJessup, McKee Elementary School,1501 Oakdale Road, Oakdale PA 15071.Tickets are $25 per adult and $15 per child,ages 12 and under. For tickets, call Nancy Davisat (724) 693-2603. Deadline for ordering ticketsis March 3. Tickets will be mailed to reservationholders and must be presented at the show.Class ReunionsWest Allegheny Class of 1959 will hold its 50th class reunion on September 26.The reunion organizers are looking for information to reach these classmates: LouiseBarrackman Dobler, Sandra Blackley, Robert Bosshart, Marge Helton Bowitz, SarahLawson Johnson, Judy McElhaney Combs, Flora Petzoid Fawkes, David Rowlands, JeanneRitson Messenger, Calvin Strader, and Everett Windsheimer.Contact Larry or Gloria Lutz with any information at (724) 693-8195.West Allegheny’s 40th Class Reunion will be held at Peter’s Place in Bridgeville.Details will be announced later.The class is seeking contact information for the following classmates: Jackie ReynoldsWeaver, Linda Lewis, Sharon Beaumont Snyder, Judith Brinkman, Patricia Sikorski Plance,Candy Gray Ross, Judy Reinstadler Shriver, Bonnie McGrogan Sowinsky, Linda Jordan,and Larry Robb.Any questions, contact Mary Kaye Gorczyca Kropf at (724) 695-0426, DeniseSabaton Geramita at (724) 695-1757, or Tom Magdalene at (724) 695-5058. Or,contact by e-mail Bill Thompson at wat1976@comcast.net, or Terri Kirk Watson atterri003@comcast.net.Carnegie Performing Arts Center ExpandsThe Carnegie Performing Arts Center announces the expansion of its preschoolclasses for three and four-year-olds, to be held on Thursdays at the studio, 300Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie. The classes last for 45 minutes.Classes in voice and drama are now being held on Tuesday afternoons during theschool year. An accompanist and drama coach is provided, and the class size is limited.Learn scenes and perform Broadway show tunes; study improvisation and actingtechniques. For details, call (412) 279-8887.BELOW: Youngsters are enjoying the “big hill” at NorthFayette Park on North Branch Road this winter, one of thebest snowsledding seasons in some time.16 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

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18 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

West Allegheny Presents “Once Upon a Mattress”West Allegheny School District will present the musical comedy “Once Upon a Mattress” this spring with fourperformances as follows: Friday, April 3, 7 p.m.; Saturday, April 4, 1:30 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 5, 1:30 p.m.Because of renovations to the high school auditorium, the show will be staged at South Fayette High School.The show is an adaptation of the timeless Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea,” which wasalso West Allegheny’s first musical production in 1992.Tickets will be available at the high school office beginning February 23, at $10 - adults and $5 - senior citizens,West Allegheny Gold Card holders, and students. Contact Tom Snyder, arts coordinator, at (724) 695-5269 or bye-mail at tsnyder@westallegheny.k12.pa.us.New Program Heating Up and Partnership Launches at PTIBeginning July 2009 at its North Fayette campus in Oakdale,and as part of its School of Building Technology,Pittsburgh Technical Institute announces its 15-month certificate program in HVAC Technology -- heating,ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration.The program will offer students the opportunity to enter the field with the skills needed to work as HVAC repairtechnicians, installers, mechanics, troubleshooters, and building maintenance employees.Classes will cover topics such as blueprints and metal fabrication, chiller systems, electricity fundamentals, heatingsystems, load calculations and psychometrics, troubleshooting and diagnostics, water heat systems, commercialrefrigeration, and residential refrigeration.For more information, call (412) 809-5100.Sign Up Now for the Komen Race for the CureOnline registration for the Komen Pittsburgh Race for the Cure® is now open. Log ontowww.komenpittsburgh.org, and follow the Race and Registration links. This year’s Race will be held onMother’s Day, Sunday, May 10 in Schenley Park, in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh.Storyteller Coming to McDonaldAuthor and master storyteller, Robin Moore, will visit theHeritage Public Library in McDonald on Wednesday, February25 from 6 to 8 p.m. Join in for three storytelling recordings.Robin’s books will also be available for purchase andautographs. His books include, “Bread Sister,” “MaggieAmong the Seneca,” and “Up the Frozen River.”For more information, call the library at (724) 926-8400.The McDonald Library also has a room available formeetings and activities, including scrapbooking sessions.Signup now for storytimes for youth, ages 2-5, held onFridays from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.GED classes are held at the library on Thursdays, andWeight Watchers meet on Tuesdays.Luau Party at the VFWResurrection Lutheran Church will host a Luau Party on Saturday, February 21 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the VFWhall on Steubenville Pike in Imperial. Dance or relax in a “tropical paradise.” Try hula lessons or the limbocontest and dance to favorite tunes. Hawaiian dress is welcome. For more information, call (412) 788-4513.Transplant Support Group Meetings Held in North FayetteAnyone who has had, or is anticipating, an organ transplant, and their families, is welcome to join the local transplantsupport group. This informal group meets on the second Sunday of each month from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the King’sRestaurant in Imperial.For more information, contact Rich Koper at (412) 787-3987.Crossroads Church Offers “GriefShare” Program“GriefShare,” a seminar/support group for people grieving the death of someone close, will begin its next sessionseries at Crossroads Church on Tuesday, March 24. The program meets weekly for 12 weeks. The nondenominationalgroup features biblical teaching on grief and recovery and videos with leading authors, counselors, speakers, andpastors with years of expertise in grief recovery.Residents are welcome to join the group at any time during the session. The sessions are held from 7 to 9 p.m.There is a $12 workbook fee.The support group is a ministry of Crossroads United Methodist Church in North Fayette. For more information, visitthe page noted as “GriefShare” at www.crossroadsumc.org or call (412) 494-9999.County Ball Field Permit Applications AvailableThe Allegheny County Parks Department will accept applications for ball field permits from organized baseball, soccer,and softball leagues through Wednesday, February 18. Applications are available at the county parks offices, includingSettler’s Cabin Park. Access applications online at www.alleghenycounty.us/parks/forms/aspx.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 19

ADULT PROGRAMSVITA Tax Volunteers AvailableTEEN PROGRAMS - Grades 6-12CHILDREN’S PROGRAMSFEBRUARY ACTIVITIES“In Love with the Library” Books, CDs, and more are overflowing onthe library’s shelves due to a need for growth.

Clearview FCU Presents First CirelliCommunity Service AwardClearview Federal Credit Union is pleasedto announce the winner of its first annualJoseph C. Cirelli Community Service Award.The award is named in honor of JosephC. Cirelli, former president and CEO ofClearview, who served the credit union for35 years. This award commemorates theefforts of a worthy volunteer with a $2,500donation to the charity of his/her choice.Aida Dugan was named the winner of theaward for her volunteer efforts at TheLadle and The Hearth, a soup kitchenlocated in Aliquippa. Since the spring of2005, she has worked to provide a warmmeal to those in need every week. She wasone of the founding members of the soupTrail Blazer Awards PresentedThe Montour Trail Council recently presented its Trailblazer Awards.Honored were Mark Imgrund, MTC president; Dennis Sims, newsletter editor;Dave Hajnik, webmaster; Phyllis McChesney, secretary; Bill Orr, treasurer;Stan Sattinger, chairman of the membership, volunteer, and donor committee;and Rich Blaskiewicz, MTC Volunteer of the Year.The Montour Friends Volunteers of the Year were also honored. They are:Dave Murphy, Frank Ludwin, Sue Headley, Dave Oyler, Ray Johnston, and BobO’Connell.SNPJ Secretary HonoredThe Fraternal Societies of Greater Pittsburgh (FSGP) has named SloveneNational Benefit Society (SNPJ) National Secretary Karen A. PintarFraternalist of the Year for 2009. The FSGP is comprised of more than 20fraternal benefit societies representing overone million members and has been serving theWestern Pennsylvania area for more than 65years. Ten of these societies have their nationalheadquarters in the Pittsburgh area, the mostof any city in the country.Each year the FSGP chooses a member whodisplays active participation in promoting thefraternal spirit and who has made invaluablecontributions to the fraternal community. Karenwill be honored by the FSGP at the annual Fraternalist of the Year banquetSaturday, March 28.In her leadership role, Karen has been an integral part of the success ofthe Slovene National Benefit Society and FSGP. She has represented SNPJat events across the country as well as in Slovenia, and has upheld theimportant fraternal and cultural traditions of SNPJ. In 2005, Karen led theFSGP as its president after previously serving on its executive board assecond vice president and first vice president. She is a founding committeemember of “Kidz Bowling 4 Kidz,” a charitable event created by the FSGPthat benefits Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. She has been an FSGPofficer for the past eight years and currently serves as FSGP secretary.PHOTO SUBMITTEDkitchen, and currently serves as itscoordinator.Aida was chosen from a very qualified fieldof nominees, who all have logged considerablehours volunteering for their respectivecharities.The $2,500 donation to The Ladle andThe Hearth will be used to purchase foodsupplies for its food pantry, clothes,transportation, and lodging vouchers forhomeless guests.“I am very pleased to commemorate avolunteer like Aida Dugan who truly enrichesour community,” said Mark Brennan,president and CEO of Clearview. “We atClearview are proud to make a donation inPHOTO SUBMITTEDABOVE: Aida Dugan with Clearview President/CEOMark Brennan.honor of her, and know that The Ladle and The Hearth will putthese funds to good use.”Clearview Federal Credit Union serves approxmately 77,000members.Therapist Celebrates 15 YearsRenee Swasey is marking her 15th year as a massage therapist. Currentlya therapist at LaStone Therapy in North Fayette, she has taught at CCAC andthe Career Training Academy, and has worked with athletics, the elderly,infants, and pregnant women, to name a few.Among Renee’s specialties are Naturopathy and Reflexology.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 21

Community MarketplaceCAR FOR SALE’86 Mercedes Benz 420 SELBody in excellent shapeNo rust or dingsMileage approx 60,000Needs exhaust/brakes$2,000 OBOCall 724-695-1964NEED TO MAKE A SPECIALANNOUNCEMENT? SELL AN ITEM?WATCHING YOUR BUDGET?THESE SPACES ARE JUST$50 EACH.MAILED FREE TO ALL HOUSESHOLDSIN FINDLAY, NORTH FAYETTE,OAKDALE, STURGEON AND PART OFMcDONALD.CALL: 724.695.3968NEWIN TOWNBody MatRx FitnessMary Batyko of Moon Township proudly announces the grand opening of Body MatRxFitness (formerly World Gym) in the RIDC Park in Findlay Township. Mary acquired thefacility in November.“When people ask me why I decided to go into the fitness business, especially in theseuncertain economic times, I tell them this, “When I look at the men and women who use thefacilities and see the fun they have and the progress many are experiencing, I feel I haveplayed a major role in making a positive difference in someone’s life.”Mary added, “I have been active most of my adult life -- walking, aerobic classes here andthere. But when I began to increase my cardio workout and lift weights several years ago, Isaw and felt a major transformation. My energy increased; my blood pressure andcholesterol levels are excellent. I like the way I feel and people tell me how nice I look. Ihope to pass on that same passion and intensity to others.”Prior to owning Body MatRx Fitness, Mary worked as the comprehension highway safetyand DUI coordinator for Beaver County. She retired from that position.Body MatRx Fitness offers a large, wide-open gym area with state-of-the-art cardio andcircuit training equipment, free weights, individual classroom areas where a wide range ofexercise classes are held throughout the week, and full locker rooms with showers.Additionally, Body MatRx Fitness provides body mass index assessment (body fatpercentage), personal training, and flexible hours of operation. Gym hours are Mondaythrough Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to3 p.m.Conveniently located on Industry Drive in the RIDC Park in Findlay Township, BodyMatRx Fitness is just minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport and The Mall atRobinson, and easily accessible from Route 60. Babysitting is also available.Currently, the gym is offering classes such as Zumba, Power Pump, Punch Out (usingboxing gloves and heavy bags), Spinning, Pilates, Yoga, and Step.Tanning beds and new weight equipment will be added soon.Bob Zolkiewicz of Robinson Township, a 15-year veteran of running health clubs, is thegeneral manager.Mary has been a Moon area resident since 1983, where she makes her home with herhusband. They have two adult sons.To inquire about current specials or prices, or to receive a list of classes offered, call BodyMatRx Fitness at (412) 787-1451, or visit the Web site at www.bodymatrxfitness.com.22 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

St. Clair Opens New ER WingSt. Clair Hospital marked the official opening of its new $13.5 million emergency room,typically the busiest ER in southwestern Pennsylvania with more than 50,000 patient visitseach year, with a ribbon cutting on December 17.Almost double in size, the new ER houses 46 state-of-the-art treatment rooms capable ofhandling up to 80,000 patient visits annually. By implementing industry-inspired processengineering techniques and advanced technologies, patient wait times -- the number onecause of emergency department overcrowding and patient dissatisfaction -- are expected tobe reduced.“Greatly expanding our ER is a direct response to the needs of the community,” said JamesM. Collins, president and chief executive officer, St. Clair Hospital.The 46 treatment rooms include 31 for acute adult situations, six for pediatric needs, threefor behavioral and mental health issues, and six “fast track” rooms for patients with minorillnesses and injuries.$1.5 million of the new ER’s $13.5 million price tag was donated by the Rossin FamilyFoundation in memory of Peter C. Rossin. Ada Rossin, the wife of the late Mr. Rossin, attendedthe dedication ceremony and called the new ER “a wonderful addition to St. Clair Hospital andan important expansion of life-saving health care services.”Peter Rossin was the founder, chairman, and CEO of Dynamet.The new ER includes “Austin’s Playhouse,” a child-friendly waiting area, which wasconstructed through a gift from the Mario Lemieux Foundation and its initiative, The PlayroomProject. The playroom is named after Austin Lemieux, son of former Pittsburgh Penguins starand current Penguins owner Mario Lemieux, and his wife, Nathalie.TOP: Left to right: Mel Rex, chairman of St. Clair Hospital’s Board of Directors;Tom Medwig, chairman of St. Clair Health Corporation.BOTTOM: Left to right: Gary Zentner, chairman of St. Clair Hospital Foundation Board of Directors; James M. Collins, president and chiefexecutive officer, St. Clair Hospital; Liz Stephans, granddaughter of the late Peter C. Rossin; Ada Rossin, wife of the late Peter C. Rossin; andJoan Stephans, daughter of the late Peter C. Rossin.WA Alumna Elected VPChelsey Hennemuth of Oakdale, a junior at St. Vincent College,has been elected vice president of the school’s Student GovernmentAssociation Executive Board. She assumed her new responsibilitiesfor a one-year term beginning in January.She also served the Student Government Association as juniorclass senator, chair of the Student Affairs Committee, chair of theResidence Hall Council, Residence Hall representative, and memberof the Housing Task Force.A 2006 West Allegheny High School graduate, Chelsey is pursuinga double major in graphic design and communications with aconcentration in public relations and advertising.At St. Vincent, she is a five-time Dean’s List honoree and recentinductee of the Upsilon Nu Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, the officialcommunication studies honor society of the National CommunicationAssociation.Homebuilder Gets CertifiedSchumacher Homes, a national builder of over 5,000 customhomes, is proud to announce that they are now ENERGY STAR®CERTIFIED. This designation is issued to a limited number ofhomebuilders by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA. Eachhome is individually inspected and must comply with rigorousguidelines before it is given the Energy Star® designation. EnergyStar® homes provide third party substantiated proof of real utilitycost savings.PHOTOS BY PAT JENNETTERotaryHelpedMany ThisSeasonRIGHT:Members of theParkway West RotaryClub sorted throughhundreds of toys andgifts for children andfamilies in need in theairport area, thendelivered them tohomes and families.According to RotaryClub member JimGlass, they had suchan outpouring ofcommunity support thatthe club was able toprovide the children andfamilies with anabundant amount ofgifts this holidayseason.PHOTOS BY KAREN GLASSFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 23

West Allegheny MusicianMarches in RoseBowl ParadeWest Allegheny High School junior Kurtis Lutzperformed in the Bands of America (BOA)National Honor Band in the 2009 Tournament ofRoses Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena,California. A French horn player, he was chosenby audition from among hundreds of applicantsacross the nation for membership in thisprestigious honors ensemble. Directed byGeorge N. Parks of the University of MassachusettsMinuteman Marching Band, the BOAHonor Band is a 300-piece national ensemblewith winds, percussion, and a flag and danceteam.Traveling along Pasadena’s famed ColoradoBoulevard, the two-hour spectacle featured floralfloats, marching bands, and equestrian units. Whileon the trip, Kurtis also performed at the Tournamentof Roses Bandfest and at Disneyland. He isan honor student at West Allegheny, a member ofthe band and chorus, and plays varsity soccer.This 2009 band is only the second nationalmarching honor band ever convened, with the firstone appearing at the 2005 Rose Parade. Kurtis’solder brother, Matt Lutz, participated in thatgroup.24 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Programs Help WorkersDuring These Hard TimesIn response to the economic downturn, Community College of AlleghenyCounty is introducing its own stimulus package for Western Pennsylvania,offering free tuition for laid-off workers and transition programs for employersforced to downsize.“Allegheny County and CCAC have a long history of working together toprovide educational support and workforce training to our residents andbusinesses, especially during difficult economic times,” said Allegheny CountyChief Dan Onorato.The Career Transition Center for Dislocated Workers will extend a waiver oftuition and fees to unemployed individuals when they present a letter fromtheir employers verifying that the unemployment was due to company layoffsand not employee choice or fault.Five programs will participate in the tuition waiver this spring, with specialcourses opening at a later start date in March and continuing through May.Credit programs include Information Technology Support, Welding, andPhlebotomy. Non-credit programs include Emergency Medical Technician(EMT) training and Certified Nurse Aide training.Interested individuals must apply for financial aid.For more information, call (412) 788-7351.Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato also announced the launch of anew, easy-to-navigate Web site, “Help in Hard Times,” which offers a vastarray of resources for families and individuals to turn to when needed.Developed by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, the sitecontains information about employment, food, housing, utility assistance,health care, financial counseling, and more. The site is located atwww.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/help.aspx.Information about programs and services is also available by calling the DHSDirector’s Action Line at 1-800-862-6783.BusinessLegal Reopens OfficeAttorney Lynn Emerson, a resident of Oakdale, has announced thereopening of her Oakdale office, located at 5121 Noblestown Road. It waspreviously located in Huckleberry’s plaza until the 2004 flood.The office is now staffed four days a week. Lynn Emerson is available onTuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mark Joseph, Esquire, is thereon Mondays and Wednesdays at the same times. Both attorneys will scheduleother times by appointment.Lynn manages BusinessLegal, P.C.,a general practice law firm which focuseson the personal and business needs of individuals, business owners, nonprofitorganizations, and corporations. Her practice encompasses everything fromWills, Powers of Attorney and Living Wills to determining the right form ofbusiness for start-ups, writing contracts, planning for business succession, andprotecting its intellectual property.Mark was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1998 and practiced in a largePittsburgh-based law firm until 2002, when he joined a compliance group of amajor mid-Atlantic financial institution. In 2008, he decided to re-enter thepractice of law and focuses on providing general representation of smallbusinesses and their individual owners.BusinessLegal maintains its main office in Bridgeville. For information, call(412) 257-2617.National City’sImperial Branch to be SoldThe Imperial branch of National City Bank is among the 61 branches thatwill be sold by PNC, a requirement in order to acquire the bank. PNCanticipates transferring ownership of the branch, along with the otherbranches, to a new owner by the middle of this year.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 25

STORY BY JESSICA HARMANPHOTOS SUBMITTEDFor the Love ofa CureWest Allegheny sophomore, Lauryn Michaels, is alot like most sixteen-year-old girls. An honorroll student, she plays the flute in her highschool’s marching band, has starring roles in the schoolmusicals, loves to text message, and more recently gother learner’s permit and, like the majority of teenagers,is anxious to get behind the wheel.But in so many ways, Lauryn is quite different fromthe average teenager.She is extremely responsible, can tell the number ofcarbohydrates in everything from peas to pizza withinseconds, and constantly has an insulin pump ratherthan an iPod at her side. That’s because Lauryn hasType I diabetes, an insulin-dependent autoimmunedisease that prevents the body from producing thehormone necessary to convert sugar, or “glucose,” andstarch into energy.Her diagnosis came in January 1995 when Laurynwas just two years old after spending two days in theintensive care unit of a West Virginia hospital. Nowfourteen years after her diagnosis, Lauryn’s diabeteshas become somewhat of a family affair. BecauseLauryn must be aware of the amount of carbohydratesin everything she eats, which affects the amount ofinsulin units required to stabilize her diabetes, herparents, Bryan and Teresa, along with younger brother,Trent, have adopted healthier eating habits andlifestyles that are more active.“We eat how Lauryn eats. We’ve learned to makemuch healthier choices regarding food and exercise,”says Teresa’s husband, Bryan.Unfortunately, for those living with diabetes,maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not only necessary butalso expensive, as Teresa points out.“Lauryn must wear an insulin pump on her hip thatgives her insulin as she eats. Most health insurancecovers the insulin pump, but they do not cover thecontinuous blood glucose monitoring system that testsLauryn’s blood sugar every few minutes. This systemcan cost up to $300 each month.”The American Diabetes Association estimates that thetotal cost of diabetes for Pennsylvanians in 2006 was$6,789,000, and many diabetes sufferers have medicalexpenses that total roughly 2.3 times higher than theexpenses for individuals who do not have diabetes.Fortunately, there are campaigns and organizationsthat advocate for research into treatments andinterventions that benefit individuals with Type Idiabetes. One such organization is the JuvenileDiabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).In 1995, the Michaels family became involved withJDRF. When asked why she and Bryan got involvedwith the organization, Teresa’s answer was instantand straight to the point, “Because of our daughter.”“The mission of JDRF is simple: to educate othersabout being around people with diabetes and to finda cure for the disease down the road,” explainsTeresa. “Now that Lauryn has gotten older, she alsowants a cure.”Shortly after volunteering with JDRF, Teresaaccepted the position of Vice President ofGovernment Relations for JDRF’s WesternPennsylvania chapter. She meets with localrepresentatives to inform them about the dailychallenges and needs of Type I diabetes andencourage the reauthorization of diabetes researchfunding. Through her position, she also becamedeeply involved with JDRF’s Children’s Congress“Promise to Remember Me” campaign, which sendsJDRF Advocates to the home districts of their electedofficials where these advocates encourage—on theirown behalf or for a loved one—for increased fundingfor a cure and for a promise to remember these facesof diabetes.“Great advocates are individuals who arepassionate about finding a cure. They don’tnecessarily have to be good speakers,” says Teresa.“Becoming an advocate is as easy as e-mailing orwriting a letter to their local congressman orsenator.”Becoming a JDRF advocate is just one way to helpraise money for a cure, Teresa explains. Donations,bike rides, and walks are all valuable and fun waysto support the development of innovative therapies,as the Michaels have found.Since moving from West Virginia to Imperial in2001, the Michaels have been participating in theJuvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Walk toCure Diabetes under the name Lauryn’s LifePreservers. The walk raises money to fund researchfor a cure and has raised more than $90 millionnationally since the first walk in 1970. Lauryn’s Life26 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Preservers play a vital role in this fundraiser with teamcontributions reaching nearly $55,000 over the past sevenyears. A generous $14,921 was raised at last year’s walkwith support from the Michaels’ family and friends.The contributions of the Michaels family to JDRF wererecognized toward the end of last year’s Pittsburgh Piratesseason when Lauryn was invited to throw out theceremonial first pitch at one of the team’s games.“We received a call from Build-a-Bear asking if Laurynwould be interested in participating,” says Teresa, who addsthat Build-a-Bear’s Children’s Health & Wellness Grantprogram has been a tireless supporter of juvenile diabetes.Although living an active, healthy life with diabetes can bea challenge, Lauryn serves as a reminder of what thesupport from family, friends, and organizations like JDRFcan do for individuals living with Type I diabetes.“The best thing is seeing the continuous progress thatLauryn has made from age two to sixteen. Over the lastfourteen years, we’ve seen medical advancements thatweren’t even invented when she was two,” recalls Teresa,who reminds everyone that diabetes is not a one-daydisease.“Our friends and family are there to support us all yearlong. As we contend with the battles of a teenager wanting abreak, they are there to rally behind us and support ourfamily. While we continue to raise money for a cure andawareness for Type I diabetes, we also want to make surethat they are truly appreciated for all the support that theyprovide to our family to help us reach our main goal ofraising money to fund research for a cure.”Those interested in becoming an advocate with JDRF maycontact its Western Pennsylvania chapter office by phone at(412) 471-1414 or by visiting www.jdrf.org/westernpa.TOP TO BOTTOM:Lauryn got to throw out the first pitch during a Pittsburgh Pirate’s game lastyear, and also met the Pirate Parrot; Lauryn with her brother, Trent, andPittsburgh Steeler Kendall Simmons. The Steelers and Kendall hostedseveral youths with Type I diabetes at training camp this past summer;Lauryn with State Senator Tim Murphy.The 5th Annual JDRF Steak Fry will be held on March 28 at the Oakdale Community Center from 6 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are$30 per person and include steak, potato, salad, roll, and dessert. Free beer and soft drinks will be available. Guests can BYOB. Theevening also includes a DJ and dancing, 50/50 raffle and more. All proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Theevent is organized by Bryan and Teresa Michaels. For tickets, call (724) 695-9366.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 27

Read us online!www.pghpointswest.com/allegwestmagCalendars Honor VeteransA tribute calendarfeaturing the men andwomen of SouthwesternPennsylvania whoanswered the call toduty during WorldWar II is nowavailable from theWW II Veterans ofAllegheny CountyMemorial Fund.The keepsakecontains 14collages comprised of periodpictures provided by area veterans from all branches of the military.Along with photos of local veterans, significant events, and dates fromthe war, each page also features lyrics to songs popular back on thehomefront. They include such artists as the Mills Brothers, AndrewsSisters, Sammy Kaye, Harry James, Jo Stafford, and many more.Proceeds will go toward making a WW II memorial a reality.The calendar can be purchased at the University of Pittsburgh BookCenter, 4000 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, (412) 648-1455; theMystery Lovers Bookshop, 514 Allegheny River Boulevard, Oakmont, PA15139, (412) 828-4877; or Borders Books in Bethel Park, 1775 NorthHighland Road, Pittsburgh PA 15241, (412) 835-5583.To order by mail, send a check or money order with a minimum donationof $10, payable to WWII Memorial Fund Calendar, and mail to: P.O. Box23143, Pittsburgh PA. 15222.For more information, call (412) 779-2959.Sewickley Valley AnnouncesOfficers and New Board MembersThe Board of Directors of Heritage Valley Health System recentlyannounced their returning officers for 2009. They are: LauraVassamillet – Chair, Joe Becherer – Vice-Chair, Johannah Robb, CPA –Secretary, and Gary Chace – Treasurer.In addition, the Board of Directors announced three new boardmembers and one returning member. New members include Gwen Manto,Scott Elste, and Dr. Allen Wolfert. Returning to the board is Garry Hogan.Gwen Manto relocated to Pittsburgh three years ago to become theExecutive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Dick’sSporting Goods.Scott Elste is the General Manager and Treasurer of KeystoneManufacturing, Inc. in Rochester, a metal conveyor belt manufacturer.Elste is also the president of the Sewickley Valley Hospital FoundationBoard.Garry Hogan is the senior vice president of Parker Hunter, a division ofJanney Montgomery Scott. Garry previously served on two of HeritageValley’s predecessor boards from 1982–1983 and again from 1989–1996, and served on the Heritage Valley Health System board from1996–2007, where he was chairman from 1999–2001.Allen Wolfert, M.D. practices nephrology with Teredesai, McCann &Associates, who has offices in Pittsburgh and Aliquippa. Dr. Wolfert is alsothe president of the medical staff at Heritage Valley Sewickley.28 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Rep. Mark Mustio reminds residents of theapproaching digital television conversion. Underfederal law, television stations recently announcedthe extension to stop broadcasting analog signalswill occur on June 12.Consumers who are already subscribing to cableor satellite television or have television sets capableof reading digital signals will not need to make anychanges to continue watching their favorite shows.However, a device known as a digital tuner willneed to be purchased by those who depend onrooftop antennas or rabbit ears.Most television sets manufactured in the last fiveExpanding on his ongoing, independently-initiatedefforts to provide an even higher level of publicservice to District 44 residents that has collectivelyyielded nearly $50,000 in taxpayer savings during hisfive and a half years in office, Rep. Mark Mustiohas announced that his district office consolidationproject is now complete with the opening of his newHouse Republican Whip Mike Turzai has selectedRep. Mark Mustio to serve as a House Republicandeputy whip for the 2009-2010 legislative session.Rep. Mustio recently met with Republican WhipTurzai and the other appointed deputy whips todiscuss the group’s priorities for the upcominglegislative session. As deputy whip, Rep. Mustio willbe called upon to handle a variety of House floorSen. John Pippy has announced that the locationof the Moon Township district office has changed. Thenew address is 1009 Beaver Grade Road, Suite 210,years have built-in tuners. However, some may needto purchase a stand-alone unit.If a digital tuner is needed, the federal governmenthas been supplying coupons in the amount of $40 forthese purchases. However, due to the high demand,new applicants will be placed on a waiting list forcoupons until more funding is dedicated or previouslyissued coupons expire.Each household is permitted to use two coupons.Converters are available at most major retailers.To apply for converter box coupons, obtain anapplication from Rep. Mustio’s Web site atwww.RepMustio.com.Moon Township district office location and thepermanent closing of his Sewickley satellite office.Effective immediately, Rep. Mustio’s completedistrict office is located at 1009 Beaver Grade Roadin Moon Township. Office hours are Monday throughFriday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.responsibilities, including helping to monitor floorattendance, assisting in obtaining accurate votecounts, and communicating caucus positions prior toHouse floor debates.In addition, Rep. Mustio will return for his fourthconsecutive term as a member of the House LaborRelations, Liquor Control and Professional Licensurecommittees.Moon Township, PA 15108. The office phone number,fax number, and e-mail address all remain the same.STATE SEN.JOHN PIPPY1009 Beaver Grade Road,Suite 210Moon Township, PA 15108(412) 262-2260STATE REP.MARK MUSTIO1009 Beaver Grade Road,Suite 220Moon Township, PA 15108(412) 262-3780www.repmustio.comFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 29

Books and Reading Headline the Newsthis SeasonWest A Teacher Authors Second Children’s BookBeth Koraido of McDonald, a fourth gradeteacher at Donaldson Elementary School, haspublished her second children’s book, entitled“Summers with Grandpa Gus.”Published by PublishAmerica, the book opens upa whole new world to nine-year-old Maddy Turneron summer vacation as she is introduced toBenjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Colonel EdwinDrake, and Gus E. Gustafson.Maddy, whose father was killed in a tragic caraccident, reluctantly spends the summer with hergrandfather in historic Titusville. Leading the simplelife with Grampa Gus is a grand adventure untiltragedy again strikes in Maddy’s life.Will Maddy survive this latest tragedy?The setting of the book is the Middle Atlantic region ofthe United States, which is included in the school’s fourthgrade social studies curriculum.Beth is the parent of six children.She enjoys writing for the students in her own classroom.PublishAmerica promotes the works of new writers, andmakes its books available in both the United States andEurope.The book is available at Barnes & Noble Booksellersand online through PublishAmerica.Writer Publishes “The Montour Railroad” Pictorial BookGene Schaeffer, who worked on the Montour Railroad from1976 until 1982, has published a pictorial book called “TheMontour Railroad,” which includes photos from Gene’s collectionas well as photos and images given to him by employees whoworked at the Montour Railroad.Established by the Imperial Coal Company in 1877, theMontour Railroad traversed the western Pennsylvania countryside,with a large presence in Imperial.A book signing was held last month at Anthony Jr.’s Restaurantin Coraopolis, where the book was available for purchase.Also, framed photos of the railroad were on display, along withan authentic Montour Railroad “O” gauge replica owned by TonyCeleste.The book is available for $50. For more information, visitwww.MontourRR.com.RIGHT: Troy Bogdan, Kevin Geiselman, Gene P. Schaeffer,and Dennis Pfeiffer, all members of the Montour Trail Council,were on hand for Gene’s book signing.PHOTO BY KATHLEEN COATESLocal Sponsors Support NewBook for Elementary StudentsThe support of local businesses has enabled students atMcKee Elementary School to each receive books entitled, “TheWay to Go” and “My Favorite Book,” illustrated hard-cover booksthat express moral values. The books are published by TheAmbassador Company.Five R’s Drilling, Inc. and the Thomas-Little Funeral Servicesponsored the books, which will be distributed to each student,along with a parent guide. The school will also be provided withan interactive CD-ROM that reinforces the book’s theme.The book includes sections on Good Manners, Being Responsible,Friendship, My Town, The Hero, Family, and more.Library Awarded State Keystone GrantThe Western Allegheny Community Library has beenawarded a State Keystone Grant to expand the qualityof services for its patrons.The library was awarded the $500,000 grant under$2.7 million grants announced by State EducationSecretary Gerald Zahorchak.Grants are awarded by the Office of the CommonwealthLibraries on the basis of making librariesaccessible to people, updates of facilities, and buildingadditions or renovations.The library is currently undertaking a fundraisingdrive to raise additional funds to augment the grant.30 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Mobile Ultrasound to DebutChoices Pregnancy Center in Coraopolis has announced that it ispartnering with ICU, Image Clear Ultrasound, a nationwide ministry thattakes early prenatal ultrasound services to women contemplating abortion.There are currently fewer than a dozen such units operating around thecountry.Choicesplans to takethe unitaround tocollegecampuses,urban areas, and other locations where women can receive and see anultrasound of their unborn babies.The organization is in the process of organizing funding, personnel, andscheduling details.For more information, or to help, contact Keri Muir at (724) 457-1220.Also, Choices Pregnancy Center will hold its annual Walk for LIFEfundraiser on Saturday, May 9 in Coraopolis. Sponsored walkers willgather at the town gazebo at 9:30 a.m. for registration, coffee, andrefreshments. The easy two-mile walk through downtown Coraopolis isheld rain or shine, and there are great incentive prizes for top-earningwalkers. All proceeds benefit Choices Pregnancy Center’s free medicaland counseling services for men, women and teens facing crisis pregnanciesor other sexual health issues in our community. Details and sponsorforms can be obtained by calling Choices at (724) 457-1220.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 31

32 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009Tax Time, Part IBY DON GRAUYes, it is time to start thinking about those tax return forms. Althoughthis can be a stressful time, you should consider your tax returnpreparation as an opportunity to retrieve some of your money. Couldn’tyou use a few hundred extra dollars? To help you do a better job ofgetting more of your money back, here are some often overlooked taxdeductions.Remember those economic stimulus checks you received last year?Well, don’t forget that they are not taxable income for either federal orstate tax purposes and you do not report them on your 2009 taxreturn. But don’t stop there, as you may be eligible for additionalmoney through the Recovery Rebate Credit. The stimulus paymentyou received was an advance which was based on your 2007 taxreturn information. The total stimulus payment you are entitled to is tobe based on your 2008 tax retun. Thus, you may still qualify for anadditional payment. For example, if in 2008 you had a child, you didnot receive a payment in 2008. Or, if you were claimed as a dependenton your parents’ return in 2007 but you cannot be claimed as adependent in 2008, then you may be eligible for an additionalpayment.The IRS has said that they will figure the credit for you. (Do youreally trust the IRS to take care of your return?). A better approachmay be to get the IRS Form 1040 instructions and calculate yourcredit, then enter the amount on your return.Alternatively, you can go to the IRS Web site at www.irs.gov andclick on the Recovery Rebate Credit Calculator. Yes, the IRS Web sitewill also advise you of how much your advance rebate payment was.Once you calculate the proper credit, then you can see if the IRS owesyou more money.Eligible teachers, principals, aides, or instructors, don’t forget that for2008 you still qualify for a $250 deduction for materials you bought in2008 and were not reimbursed by your employer. This deduction is“above the line” -- reported on the first page of your return, andincludes such expenses as books, supplies, computer equipment, andsupplementary materials used in the classroom.Mom and Dad, don’t forget that if your adjusted gross income isbelow $130,000, you may qualify for an “above the line” deduction ofas much as $4,000 for higher education expenses. You should alsoconsider if you qualify for the Hope Credit or the Lifetime LearningCredit. The Hope Credit is worth as much as $1,800 per student. TheLifetime Learning Credit is worth as much as $2,000 per return.Compare the credit against the above the line deduction to see whichmethod produces the lower tax, giving you the bigger benefit. Oh yea,Mom and Dad, don’t forget to deduct that student loan interest forqualified loans.Your first job out of high school, don’t forget that you cannot deductjob hunting expenses for your first job. But, only Congress can comeup with this stuff, so you can deduct your moving expenses to get tothat first job. You get this deduction even if you don’t itemize yourdeductions. If you moved more than 50 miles, you may be eligible todeduct the cost of getting yourself and your household goods to thenew area. Depending on the dates of the move, you get 19 or 27 centsper mile (plus parking fees and tolls) for driving your own car.We’ll talk about more deductions in the next column.Don Grau and Company, LLC, is located in Moon Township, offering accounting,tax preparation, bookkeeping services, and more. To contact Don, call(412) 264-5151.Learning Curves is provided as a service to advertisers of Allegheny West Magazineto share educational and/or informational knowledge with the readership. To inquireabout Learning Curves, call (724) 695-3968.

West Allegheny School DistrictDARE Role Models Continue to InspireA group of West Allegheny High School students visited themiddle school in November to discuss the importance ofmaking good choices in life with seventh graders. As part ofthe DARE program, the visit was designed to present the olderstudents as role models who help the younger studentsunderstand the dangers of drugs and alcohol.The high school students answered questions emphasizingthe long-term effects of both good and bad decisions. Theyshared personal experiences regarding the importance ofcommitment and hard work in achieving success andencouraged the seventh graders to try new activities, valuefamily relationships, express appreciation, and respect others.ABOVE: West Allegheny High School students (sitting)Rachel Yurchak, Katherine Mirich, Alicia Lanni, TaylorTrautman, and Michelle Lutz, (standing) Akshay Hari,Jacob Leninsky, Justin DiSanti, Jon Burke, and ZarleyBinder visited the middle school to help seventh gradersunderstand the dangers of drugs and alcohol and theimportance of making good choicesGeography Bee Winners DeclaredWest Allegheny Middle School seventh grader Angela Klayko was this year’s schoolchampion in the Geography Bee held in January. Runner-up Ashley Messner, an eighthgrader, was followed by eight finalists: Ryan Borgo, Tyler Bruno, Jimmy Buzzanell, JoshKolarac, Alif Putra, Tyler Sciulli, Mike Ujevich, and Emma Wilson.PICTURED: WestAllegheny Middle Schoolseventh grader studentAngela Klayko (secondfrom left) took top honorsand eighth grader AshleyMessner (second fromright) was the runner-upin the school’sGeography Bee held onJanuary 8-10. Picturedwith the students are themiddle school teacherswho sponsored thecompetition, DanHanczar and NancyWatkins.Props for French Classroom Project NeededWest Allegheny High School students in Shelley Crannell’s French 2 class are in needof props for a hands-on market experience in their classroom.Using the French language, they will create menus, compile a list of food items basedon the menu, and buy the food items at the market.To simulate the market scene as realistically as possible, Shelly is requestingdonations of “play” food items as well as artificial decorative fruits and vegetables. Shealso needs Disc Man-type personal CD players in working condition for classroom use.Anyone wishing to donate these items is asked to contact her by e-mail at:scrannell@westallegheny.k12.pa.us, or drop them off at the high school office.The lesson includes writing, practicing, and performing skits, then videotaping them,both for evaluation purposes as well as to have fun while learning French. The projectwill also involve the use of facsimile Euros to acquaint the students with the process ofcarrying out money transactions in Europe.Gifts for Soldiers Overseas Nets Overflow of Appreciation by Wilson Students and StaffWilson Elementary fourth graders in Sherry Tisdale’sand Renee Caruso’s classes elected to forego studentgift exchanges and teacher gifts this year in order tosend presents instead to U.S. troops abroad. Theyinvited everyone at Wilson to join in the effort.In an overwhelming building-wide response, thestudents and staff members donated enough gifts to fill27 boxes with a total weight of 477 pounds. Additionalcash donations were used to cover nearly $500 inpostage costs.The boxes were filled with personal items likedeodorant and toothbrushes, recreational items likeDVDs, playing cards, Nerf footballs, and Frisbees, and avariety of mealtime and snack options.Together with student-designed Christmas cards, thegifts were sent through an organization called Studentsfor Troops (www.captainscottcorwinfoundation.org) tothe Tomahawk Troop, which is part of the 4thSquadron, 3rd Armored Calvary Regiment stationed inIraq.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 33

Rachel Lovely, Louise Ribbing, and Dave Chajkowski.

PARKWAY RECOGNIZES WEST ALLEGHENY STUDENTSLEFT TORIGHT: AlexisValenti, ZacheryRoss, and MeganSmith.West Allegheny High School students have been named Students of the Month atParkway West Career and Technology Center for their outstanding academic andcommunity-service performance.Junior Alexis Valenti, who is enrolled in the Health Assistant Program, wasnamed the December Student of the Month for the AM session. She currently has a4.0 grade point average in her program at Parkway and a 3.2 grade point average atWest Allegheny. Alexis is a varsity cheerleader and a member of Key Club at WestAllegheny High School. Her volunteer works consists of helping at ResurrectionLutheran Church and at Ohio Valley General Hospital. In addition to school andvolunteering, she works at McDonalds as a cashier. She chose Parkway because of hermother’s recommendation and to explore the opportunities in the medical field.Senior Zachery Ross is in the Auto Body Repair Program at Parkway and wasnamed the PM session Student of the Month for December. He currently has a 4.0grade point average in his programs at both Parkway and West Allegheny. Zacherybelongs to the National Technical Honor Society, Skills USA and the West Ridge ChurchYouth Group. He has worked at Carnegie Motors and currently works for K & BDoormasters. He chose to attend Parkway to learn more about auto body repair anddue to his high school counselor’s referral.The AM session Student of the Month for January 2009 is senior Megan Smith.Megan is in the Business Technology Program at Parkway. She currently has a 4.0grade point average at both Parkway and West Allegheny. Megan is a member of theSki Club at West Allegheny High School and the National Technical Honor Society andSkills USA at Parkway. At Parkway she also is on the Directors List and participates inthe E-mentoring program. In addition to school, she works at IHOP where she is aserver. Megan is an avid equestrian. She chose to attend Parkway because she felt itwould help her to achieve her goal of owning her own equine business.SEEKING MEMORIESThe construction of Parkway West Career and TechnologyCenter in North Fayette Township was completed in 1968 for the1968-69 school year, marking this year as the 40th anniversaryof the school’s construction and opening.During that time,the school has gonethrough manychanges in itsprograms, techniques,and equipment inorder to continuallystay abreast of thecurrent job marketand provide a “jump start” in careers for high school students.Parkway West CTC has a long, successful history of providingcareer training opportunities for high school students from 12high schools in the western suburbs of Allegheny County.In recognition of its anniversary, the school is seekingmemories of Parkway and also stories of its successfulgraduates. If you have memories to share or a story aboutsomeone who has had a successful career after graduating fromParkway, please send it by e-mail to:jennettep@comcast.net. Or, mail to: Parkway West CTCAnniversary Memories, 7101 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA15071.PARKWAY TRAINS FOR CAREERS IN:Auto Body Repair Health AssistantAutomotive Technology Information TechnologyConstruction Technology Machine Tool TechnologyCulinary ArtsPublic Safety TechnologyDrafting & Design Welding TechnologySEE PARKWAY IN ACTION!BARNES & NOBLE EVENT ON FEBRUARY 21On Saturday, February 21 from noon to 4 p.m. at theBarnes & Noble Bookstore at The Pointe at North Fayette,Parkway West CTC students from the Culinary Arts,Cosmetology, Auto Body, and Machine Tool Technologyprograms will be demonstrating some of the tools andtechniques taught at the school.Parkway West CTC administrators, teachers, andguidance staff will also be available to answer questions. Aportion of the proceeds from the sales that day at Barnes& Noble will be given to the school to support studentactivities.OPEN HOUSE IS MARCH 5The annual Parkway West CTC spring Open House forprospective students and their parents will be held onThursday, March 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the school, locatedat 7101 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale PA 15071 in NorthFayette Township.This is an opportunity for interested parents andstudents to meet the teachers and students and see whatParkway is all about.For more information, call (412) 923-1772.PARKWAY SKILLS USA COLLECTS CANNED GOODS FOR LOCAL EFFORTABOVE: Members of the Skills USA organization at the Parkway West Career & TechnologyCenter recently collected canned food items to benefit the Focus On Renewal Center in McKeesRocks. The community service project, organized under their sponsor, Steve Livergood,instructor of the Machine Tool Technology Program at Parkway West CTC, delivered the cannedgoods just prior to the holiday season. Parkway West CTC provides a variety of career andtechnical training programs for western suburb high school students with industry certifications inmany of those, that prepare students for careers and paid employment directly after graduation,or give them a jump start on a post-graduate education.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 35

West Allegheny School DistrictHigh School Students Named to National Honor SocietyStudents Remember Holocaust VictimsWest Allegheny High School students in Dan Prevade’s SocialStudies classes wore white Holocaust remembrance ribbons onFebruary 3. Each commemorative ribbon included the nameand photograph of a victim of the Holocaust whose life thestudents researched over the course of several days.Each student was assigned an individual who was imprisonedas a result of the persecution and slaughter of European Jewsby the Nazis in World War II. Staff members at the high schoolwere also encouraged to participate by wearing a ribbon and/ormaking a point of asking the students who wore the ribbonsabout their significance.Register for Kindergarten OnlineWest Allegheny has added an online option for registration forthe kindergarten class of 2009-2010. The elementary schoolsbegan accepting registration last month by telephone or theInternet. No in-person registrations will be accepted.Parents may register by phone, (724) 213-1010 for Donaldson,(724) 693-8451 for McKee, or (724) 695-3300 for Wilson. Or,register online at www.westallegheny.k12.pa.us by selecting theKindergarten registration link. Callers must speak to an officestaff member and cannot leave a message to register their childfor kindergarten.To enter kindergarten, children must be five years old beforeSeptember 1, 2009.ABOVE: On January 6, West Allegheny High School inducted 45 students intothe National Honor Society. To be eligible for membership, these students musthave maintained at least a 3.5 QPA and must be taking or have completed threeclasses of advanced standing in each of the five major academic disciplines:English, foreign languages, mathematics, science, and social studies. Pictured,Row 1: Mara McConnell, Maggie Conoscuito, Alyssa Horvath, Haley Hanczar,Jamie Borchart, Sarah Stasik, Alexandra Melvin, Jessie Crawford; Row 2:Kristina Tissue, Christine Marshall, Angela Devereaux, Olivia Londino, AmandaFormosa, Bryanna Laudenslager, Abigail Hudak, Melissa Delval; Row 3: NicoleSchweinsberg, Sheila Zimmer, Jenna Placha, Alexa Seybold, Korin Wengryn,Taylor Brailey, Karli Strahler, Brianna Grover; Row 4: James Rekula, JoeBeaumont, Anthony Monaco, Andrew Jackson, Brian MacMillan, Corey Cleric,Ryan Capo, Joseph Lanni; Row 5: Luke Lutkus, Kurtis Lutz, Ronald Radovich,Colin Smith, Jacob Kreutzman, Zack Fell, Connor Jennings, Angelo Teachout(Not available for the photo: Justin Harbison, Michael Karas, Elizabeth Krivan,Alyssa Mance, and Kenneth Scott.)Parking Regulations Reinforced at the District’s SchoolsPursuant to concerns expressed by the North Fayette Township CodeEnforcement Officer, the West Allegheny School District is requesting thepublic’s cooperation with regard to parking at all five buildings. Near themain entrances, there are areas where the curbs are painted red todesignate that space for emergency vehicle response, such as firetrucks, ambulances, and police vehicles. In emergency situations, time iscritical. If unauthorized vehicles use these restricted parking areas, alsoknown as fire lanes, valuable time may be lost by first responders to thescene. Even when there is no emergency, unauthorized vehicles parkednear the buildings undermine school campus security.To remind visitors to refrain from parking in these spaces, the districtinstalled signs along the red curbs at each building. The signs displaythe capital letter “P” with a slash through it and the words “Fire Lane”along with the message, “No Parking/No Stopping.” These prohibitedparking areas are in effect before, during, and after school hours.Parents, staff members, and other visitors who drop off people or materials orenter the buildings themselves for a brief period, should park in areasdesignated “Visitor Parking.”At the elementary buildings, visitor parking is available across the drivewayfrom the main entrance of each building. The roadway in front of the MiddleSchool is designated “No Parking.” All visitors should park in the lot immediatelybelow that road. Visitors to the high school may use the lower parking lot or takeadvantage of the parking places beyond the circle near the steps to the lowerparking lot.If visitors cooperate with these parking restrictions, the campuses will becomesafer places for the students and staff. In addition, motor vehicles will be incompliance with the Pennsylvania State Vehicle Code guidelines.TAKENOTEDue to renovations at the high school auditorium, the circular driveway leading up to and around the school entrance will beclosed. For now, a temporary entrance and exit loop has been established in front of the high school gymnasium entrance. It isanticipated that the auditorium renovation project will require the main school entrance area to remain closed for about one year.36 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009When the West Allegheny Joint Schools would open in the fall, students were provided with brown paper bookcovers thatwere supported by local advertising? The Lincoln Savings & Loan Association in Carnegie was one of the advertisingsponsors.

New MemberRibbon Cuttings HeldWinner Participatesin Check Donationto Circle C YouthABOVE: Representatives from Circle C Youth Servicesaccept a check presented at this year’s Jinglefest.The winners of the 2008 Jinglefest annual holiday tabledecoration contest -- Clearview Federal Credit Union --joined Chamber president Sally Haas, far right, as shepresented the check which represented funds raisedfrom participants in the Jinglefest event.Welcome New MembersAgel EnterprisesNationwide Insurance - JefeffrfreyAllstate te Insurance - CharlesQuinnHendershotOnDemand EnergyAnimal Friendsriends, Inc.RoyalTreaeatment Urgent CareAtwood Lake e Resoresort t &Schoolehooley y MitchellTelecomConfererence ence CenterConsultantsAvon - Joanne McCartnetneyTakake e Care e Health ServicesGrau & CompanyWestAlleghengheny y HealthcareKararen Beck k ConsultingServicesLevel el 3 EMRWestwind HoldingsWilliams Country y ClubABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM: Members of the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadorswelcomed new members during recent ribbon cuttings -- Pure and Simple Coffee Systems, Brad Amper ofReMax Realty in Moon Township, and Element Day Spa on Beaver Grade Road in Moon Township.Coming Up . . .FEBRUARY 19Leads to Success - Holiday Inn Airport,11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.MARCH 6State of the Airport Address - CrownePlaza Hotel, 7:30 - 9:30 a.m.To Reach Us850 Beaver Grade RoadMoon Township PA 15108Phone: (412) 264-6270Fax: (412) 264-1575Satellite Office:One Veteran’s Way, Carnegie PA 15106Phone: (412) 276-1414 x1326www.paacc.com E-Mail: info@paacc.comServing These AreasAliquippa, Ambridge, Carnegie, Clinton, Collier,Coraopolis, Crafton, Crescent, Edgeworth,Findlay, Glenfield, Greentree, Haysville,Heidelberg, Hopewell, Ingram, Kennedy,Leetsdale, McDonald, McKees Rocks, MoonTownship, Neville Island, North Fayette,Oakdale, Osborne, Pennsbury Village,Robinson, Rosslyn Farms, Sewickley, Stowe,and ThornburgChamber OfficersNEAL FANELLI, ChairmanSEAN HENDERSON, 1st Vice-ChairBECKY COURSON, 2nd Vice-ChairDAN MURPHY, Vice-ChairBERNADETTE PUZZOULE, Vice-ChairKEN LAZAROWICZ, TreasurerBOB TERWILLIGER, Immed. Past ChairmanChamber StaffSALLY HAAS, PresidentMICHELLE KREUTZER, VP, Bus. Devel/Mktg.CONNIE RUHL, Spec. Proj. Coord.LINDSAY HEWITT, Events/Mbr. Svcs. Coord.JILL KIPPER, Special Projects RepresentativeSTEPHANIE SHEAFFER, Communications CoordinatorFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 37

What’s New?Lot’s of new things to talk about this month.I want to start off with congratulations to Pat and the rest of the teamat “Allegheny West Magazine”on their tenth anniversary and theimprovements to this magazine. The gloss paper, full color pages andnew design make a great looking publication even better -- well donegang!The changes in between the front and back covers of this magazineare not the only new things to talk about. Of course, we just flipped thecalendar on a new year. I think we all hope that as 2009 moves forwardwe will start to see some improvement in the tough economical situationthat has affected so many. We have a new president, who just with hiselection in November and his inauguration last month has made history.There are some new things happening with your local fire departmentsas well. The Imperial Volunteer Fire Department has a new fire chief. BobBradburn, Jr. took the helm of the department in January. Chief Bradburnhad previously served as an assistant chief for the last few years andthis is his first time serving as fire chief. We give a tip of the cap toImperial’s outgoing Fire Chief, Bob Lambert. Chief Lambert led thedepartment for several years and we thank him for his dedication.The Oakdale Hose Company has elected two new, first time assistantchiefs. 1 st Assistant Chief James Snatchko & 2 nd Assistant Chief TroyLucas started in their new positions in January. Chief Snatchko and ChiefSt. ColumbkilleMembers Honored with AwardChristopher and Jennifer Grecko, members of St. Columbkille Parish inImperial, were among nearly 300 individuals chosen from across the CatholicDiocese of Pittsburgh’s six counties, 214 parishes, and 780,000 members toreceive the Manifesting the Kingdom Award. The awards are presented everyother year for outstanding service within a parish and its community.Honorees attended a special celebration ceremony and mass at St. PaulCathedral in Oakland during ceremonies held on January 25.Lucas have previously served in other roles in the department includingCaptain. We wish all of the new officers much success in their new roles.As each day passes, the completion of the North Fayette Township FireDepartment’s long awaited aerial truck gets closer. This vital piece of firefighting equipment has been discussed for years. In December of 2007 thecontract was signed and we hope to take delivery of the vehicle early nextmonth. I will have more on the ladder truck in a future column. Therenovation to the department’s social hall is also heading to the finish line.The improvements to the facility include a new entrance area, kitchen, bararea and rest rooms. In addition there will be new flooring throughout thefacility, new windows and doors, and improvements to the heating and coolingsystem. Events are being booked for April 2009 and beyond. For moreinformation or to reserve a date, contact Karen at (412) 861-6479.There is certainly a lot to look forward to in 2009. I, for one am looking forwarmer weather. The Pirates play their first pre-season game on February25, which means spring is just around the corner! Until then, keep warm andstay safe!North FayetteTwpwp. Residents– The North Fayette VFD would like to thank thosewho contributed to our annual fund drive. As a cost saving measure this year, we arenot mailing out receipts to all of our supporters of our direct mailing campaign. Ifany contributor would like a receipt, please contact the Fire Department at(412)787-2883.Student Artists Paint WindowsAnyone who made it over to the Dick’s Sporting Goods store at The Mall atRobinson during the days before and after the Superbowl game couldn’t helpbut notice the creative window paintings that promoted the Steelers.That’s because West Allegheny High School art students Megan Kauliusand Ashley Boebel volunteered their time and talent to paint the windows.For their efforts, they each received a $100 gift certificate to spend atDick’s Sporting Goods.The project was coordinated by high school teachers Sue Carretta andCarol DeWitt, and high school D.A.R.E. officer, Sergeant John Bates, whoworked with Howard Del Aguila, senior regional director of loss prevention atDick’s Sporting Goods, to arrange for the girls to create their artwork.38 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

BY PAT JENNETTEWe all have those memories tucked away in thenooks and crannies of our homes -- little scrapsof paper with cute sayings from our children,ticket stubs to a special event, a program from a child’srecital, a memory card from a loved one’s funeral.Then there are the photos -- boxes and boxes of them, ifyou’re anything like most memory keepers.Here is a way to while away winter -- get those photos andmemories organized so you, and your family, can enjoy themfor many years to come.Use this process to get organized and transform thosememories into scrapbooks that will preserve the specialmoments in your life.Step OneInventory the photos. Set aside a long winter afternoon andpull out the boxes of photos. Sit down and go through one boxat a time. Put the photos into general stacks.For example, make one stack of each child’s early years,another stack of vacations, a stack of the pets, and so on.Step TwoReturn to the photo stacks. Pick one stack and, with labelsand a pen (make sure it’s the kind that works best withphotos), begin identifying the photos. Who is in them? Whatis the date? What are they doing? Keep the identificationsimple. Write it on a label, then affix the label to the back ofthe photo. Never write directly on the photo, as the writingcould come through the photo onto the image.Step ThreeTake the selected stack with the photos identified and sortthem. They can be sorted by event, by chronological order, byseason, or however you would like to remember them.Step FourVisit a craft or scrapbook store. Some of my favorites arenoted to the right.Wherever you choose to buy, give it some thought beforeordering or making a purchase, because the selections areendless!You’ll need a scrapbook for starters. How big do you want itto be? They range from miniature to medium books witheight-inch pages and up to the large, 12 x 12” pages. Makesure the page holders are acid-free so that your photos andthe papers you put them on are protected for a long time. Ifyou’ll have a lot of photos for a particular book, make sureyou can add post-extenders to make the book bigger.Select your book, and take note of the many options forpapers, lettering, and embellishments.Don’t buy yet, just get ideas, and mark down the optionsand their prices.Step FiveWith your research in hand, decide how much paper andother items you will need for this particular book, as well aswhat colors or themes you want to incorporate. The varietiesare endless! Look at your photo stack and determine whatphotos you want in the book. You don’t need to use them all.Choose the ones you like the best for the scrapbook or thatbest tell the story you want to convey. The others can alwaysbe tucked in the back of the book or simply put in photosleeves at the end.Step SixGo shopping! Purchase your papers, letterings,embellishments,and other creative products to make yourstory come alive.You’ll need some basic supplies, too. (see the list, below).Step SevenSet aside a space, perhaps a long table or the dining tablethat doesn’t get used much where you can begin to lay outyour project and leave it there until it’s finished.Step EightMake the mockup. Begin your story! Lay out your photos inthe sequence of the story you want to tell. Look at the suppliesyou’ve chosen and see how they work with the photos. Photoscan be trimmed, and paper can be adapted, so be creative.Leave a space with each layout to journal. This might be asimple identification of the photos, or it might be the memoriesof a special event that you don’t want to forget. Perhapssomeone did or said something special or you discoveredsomething on a trip and you want to remember it. Write ithere. These are the things that set apart a photo album from ascrapbook.Step NineFinalize your project. Affix everything once you have it howyou want it to look.Step TenEnjoy your final project! Share it with others.Feel free to adapt this process, too. After all, it’s a creativething.Happy memory making!Supplies NeededBASICS: Adhesives, Scissors (straight edge and a variety of creative edges), Ruler,Journaling PensCREATIVE ITEMS: Scrapbook, Acid-free page protectors, Themed papers, lettering,embellishments, Journaling tags or papers, Three-dimensional fun stuff, if preferred:buttons, ribbons, etc, A scrapbook magazine or two to get the creative ideas rollingWhere to BuyAREA STORE: Scrapbooking by Inches on Beaver Grade Road, Moon Township; JoAnnFabrics & Crafts in Robinson Town Centre; Michael’s at The Pointe at North Fayette; PatCatan’s in McKees Rocks.VENDORS/SUPPLIES: Michelle Koester and Mary Pat Pinsoneault of CreativeMemories; Oriental Trading; www.scrapbooking.com; Nicole Simmons ofwww.simmons.myctmh.com40 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Landscaping:Spice is Up with Color!BY KEITH MORRISWinter blues got you down? This spring, think COLOR! Color is animportant part of designing your home and garden. While everyone hasdiffering opinions on what looks good to their eye, almost everyone likesto see color. Here are five tips for achieving long-lasting waves of coloraround your home throughout the seasons:1. CONSIDER FOLIAGEMany plants change color in the autumn,but what about their in-season leaf color? Using plants fortheir seasonal foliage colors create long-lasting splashes inthe garden. Not all plants are green in the summer. Thereare variegated foliages, which refers to multiple colors, suchas the green and white leaves on a Variegated RedtwigDogwood. There are blue-leaved specimens such as a BlueSpruce or Wichita Blue Juniper. The are gold colored plantslike a Goldthread Cypress. And, there are red-leaf varieties,such as a Crimson Queen Japanese Maple.2. USE LONG-BLONG-BLOOMING OOMING SPECIMENS Many shrubs andperennial flowers have extended blooming periods and someeven bloom twice in a season. Try using May Night Salvia,Stella D’Oro Daylily, Nikko Blue Hydrangea and Flower CarpetRose bushes.3. MIX IT UP WITH ANNUALSALS Annual flowers have to be plantedevery year, but they do come with some hefty benefits. Annualssuch as Begonias, Impatiens, and Petunias can be plantedafter the last frost (usually around Memorial Day) and they willprovide a sea of color until October.4. ADD HARDSCAPING ELEMENTS Hardscaping refers toanything in the garden that is not a plant. Using large stoneboulders, decorative mulches and gravels, large flowers pots,pergolas, walls, and paving stones can bring distinct color andtexture to your home.5. MULTIPLE TIPLE SEASONS OF INTEREST There are quite a fewplants that strut their stuff at more than one time of year.Koreanspice Viburnum, for example, has fragrant creamy whiteflowers in the spring, glossy green leaves in the summer, andshow-stopping red fall color.Designing a colorful environment at home can seem a littleoverwhelming. With a little planning, research, and perhaps thehelp of a professional, you too, can create the ultimatelandscape at your home.Keith Morris is the owner of K. Morris, Inc., “Fine Home and GardenDesign, Construction, and Remodeling.” To reach him, call (724) 693-8663.Learning Curves is provided as a service to advertisers of Allegheny WestMagazine to share educational and/or informational knowledge with thereadership. To inquire about Learning Curves, call (724) 695-3968.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 41

INDIAN VOLLEYBALL TEAM WPIAL CHAMPIONSThe volleyball team provided the big story of the fall sports scene up on thehill overlooking Imperial by capturing the WPIAL championship and going tothe PIAA semi-finals.First-year coach Lisa Pyrdek inherited only three seniors from the team thatlost to Hopewell in the WPIAL class AA finals in 2007. But she was well awareof what it takes to win championships, having been an assistant at Hopewellwhen the Vikings won five WPIAL titles in six years.The three West Allegheny seniors, Kristen Lang, Lauren Marucci, andMichelle Walker, were also aware of what it takes to win medals at this level. In2006, when they were sophomores on the Indians’ State Championship team,they had to settle for silver at the WPIAL’s.Their goal at the beginning of this year was to win the section then theWPIAL and then the States according to underclassman Carissa Miara, an upand coming setter.In the beginning their task seemed insurmountable. They had only threeseniors, and Hopewell was loaded with experienced championship-caliberplayers. The Indians lost to Hopewell in the MAC Tournament finals early in theseason but the lesson learned was this. If they could hold their own with thedefending state champions, they could play with anybody. They went on tocapture the section crown and once again faced the Vikings in the WPIAL finalsin early November.The Indians responded with a 3-1 victory led by Walker’s 15 kills and fourblocks. Miara had 36 assists and Alexa Seybold finished with 20 digs. LaurenMarucci and Seybold had three aces apiece to spark the offense. KorenWengryn played big up front with four blocks. Haley Hanczar scored the lasttwo points of the victory with a kill and a block. Lang was her usual seniorleader self by making plays all over the court.The Indians went on to the PIAA tournament, winning three of four matchesbefore losing to Susquehannock, 3-2, in the semi-finals.“We had a great season,” said coach Pyrdek. “We were the first team inschool history to win the WPIAL volleyball title.”LANG, WALKER and WENGRYN VOLLEYBALL ALL-STARSSeniors Kristen Lang and Michelle Walker were joined by junior middle hitterKoren Wengryn on the first team of the WPIAL Class AA Volleyball all-star team.There are 46 schools in the AA classification. Having three players make theall-star team is a tribute to the West Allegheny program.Walker, who was earlier reported headed to Duquesne to play basketballunder Pittsburgh legend Suzie Serio McConnell, had a change of heart andhas chosen to attend Pitt on a volleyball scholarship.WRESTLERS DO NOT GRAPPLEThere once was a West Allegheny wrestling coach who admonished areporter for calling his athletes grapplers. “That’s what you do with your girlfriend,” said the coach. “These guys are wrestlers. It’s an art.”If you are looking for more sage advise of the same, check out theStarbucks at The Mall at Robinson. Retired school teacher and wrestling coachHarry Sherbondy holds court there most afternoons.42 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

WRESTLING TEAM TITLE CONTENDERBack in early December WA wrestling coach Mike Johnson was optimisticabout the upcoming wrestling season despite having only two seniors back.“I’m looking forward to getting started this season. The future looksbright for us, not only this year but farther down the road,” said Johnson.The reason for Johnson’s optimism? For starters there were four 30 ormore match winners among eight returning starters with winning records.The team had a dual meet record of 12-2 in 2007-08 and finished asrunners-up in class AAA Section Five.Heading the list is defending WPIAL 152 lb. champion and 30 matchwinner Troy Reaghard, and he’s only a junior. Troy has moved up to 171 lbs.He and another 30 match winner from last year, senior Jake Leninski, wonprestigious Midwestern Athletic Conference titles this year for the thirdconsecutive time. Reaghard also brought home the gold medal from theAllegheny County Tournament and Leninski brught home the silver at 189lbs. prior to the WPIAL tournament.The other Indian senior, Jesse Lesko, wrestles in the light-heavyweightclass. Hunter Lang wrestles in the lower weight classes and juniors K. Scottand Dan Bruni go in the lower-middle weight classes. Junior Tryo Maaswrestles at 160 or 171.Bruni was a 30 match winner last year as was sophomore Erin McKinneywho also won a gold medal at the MAC tournament this year. Bruni andTanner Cogar, 112, were runners-up.THAT EAST -WEST CONNECTIONAs the old saying goes, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join em.”After suffering a close defeat at the hands of the PittsburghSteelers, the Cardinals may have hedged its bets by bringingsome Pittsburgh blood to its lineup.And so, as this magazine went to print, it was reported thatquarterback Tyler Palko of West Allegheny/Pitt fame signed areserve/future contract with the Arizona Cardinals.He travels to Arizona on March 1 to begin training with theteam.It’s just another example of that famous East-West connectionwhen it comes to football and Pittsburgh.Tyler graduated from West Allegheny in 2003 and subsequentlyplayed on the Pitt Panther team as its quarterback.Most recently, he spent time with the New Orleans Saints beforeincurring a hand injury -- torn ligaments in his thumb -- that senthim back to Pittsburgh for rehabilitation.It is reported that Tyler anticipates vying for either Brian St.Pierre or Matt Leinart’s jobs behind starting quarterback KurtWarner.With the Cardinals playing an incredibly awesome game againstthe Steelers in this year’s Superbowl, it’s a great opportunity forTyler to try his hand with one of the best team’s in the NFL at thispoint in time.But rest assured; the Steelers are still Number One.ABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM: The Aviators Mite A Major Hockey Teamwon the Three Rivers Cup Tournament in January. Pictured, row one,Goalie Harrison Fleming; row two, Jake Melisko, Chloe Coleman, IanVoit, Bradley Ryniawec; row three, Max Rose, Noah Yerdon, NickSolema, Zach Hays, Erica Lavella, Nicholas Wroblewski; row four,Coaches Dennis Fleming,Jack Hayes, and Tim Solema. BradleyRyniawec and the Hays duo hail from Imperial.Donaldson Elementary School second graders in Cindy Hensler’s class -- Janelle Amadio, Stacia Shaytar, Timmy Fair, and Evan Blunkosky --prepared for the Super Bowl by dressing as Pittsburgh Steelers fans andcreating their own oversized Super Bowl game tickets. They also wrotestories explaining what they would do if they actually had two tickets tothe event in Tampa, Florida.Now In our 10th YearServing the Community!We serve the airport area with three distinct communitymagazines, all mailed free into the homes across 14area communities. To learn more about our publications,call 724.695.3968February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 43

Regulation game football personallyautographed by Steelers’ quarterback,Ben Roethlisberger, and includes itsofficial Certificate of AuthenticitySuper Bowl XLIII hat and tee-shirtHis and hers “Big Ben” Steel FiredGrill sweatshirtsFramed lithograph action picture ofSteeler Troy PolamaluSteelers helmet-logo decorativelicense plateSteelers Styrofoam cooler with a 12-pack of Michelob LightApproximately $1,000DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON APRIL 15, 2009You can be the winner of this wonderful basket that represents all that the six-time SteelersSuper Bowl Champions are all about. The football will be a collector’s item and will grow invalue as Ben continues his magnificent journey as one of the NFL’s most outstanding youngquarterbacks of all time.Call Mary Ann Lubas @ 724.695.1964 or E-mail Pat at jennettep@comcast.net.Or, send a check, payable to Mary Ann Lubas, with the notation “Justice for Mike,” to:111 Bateman Road, Oakdale PA 15071. Be sure to include name, address, and phone number so it can beproperly noted on the tickets and so that the remaining half of the ticket(s) can be returned to you for yourrecords. The account has been set up at First Commonwealth Bank in Imperial. Former Steeler L.C.Greenwood with John and PatJennette, high bidders on theSteelers basket at the Heart ofCaring Luncheon on February 6.They have donated the basketas a raffle to benefitwww.justiceformike.net.

Community CardsADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS, ORGANIZATION, PRODUCT, OR SERVICE HERE! Just $115 for ablack and white business card, and only $125 for a business card in color. No contract required. Run onan “as-needed” basis. Reach 15,000 homes and businesses each time. For more information, call(724) 695-3968.Kovach’s Body Shop529 Valley StreetMcDonald PA 15057(724) 926-8706Quality Collision Service Since 1960Gift a gift that costsnothing but meansthe world tosomeone.Sign up to be anorgan donor.Center forOrgan Recovery & Education800-DONORS-7 ~ www.core.orgComplete Tree& Lawn CareResidential& CommercialCertified Arborists &Licensed TechniciansMiles Stephens, District Mgr.(724) 746-8852Site Studio!The EASIEST way to build your own web site! Lots of templates . .. copy and paste text from your favorite word processor . . . addyour photos — presto! For your club, family tree, hobby, crafts, oryour small business. $175 for the first year, includesdomain name!Call Pittsburgh Points West —(412) 494-9203February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 45

BY PAT JENNETTEPHOTOS SUBMITTEDWhat do you get when you mix a lot ofdetermination, sprinkled with a dose ofinspiration and loaded with a menu ofcreativity? At McKee Elementary, theresult is “McKee Cooks.”The brainchild of the McKee PTA, the colorful, spiralboundcookbook hit the shelves, so to speak, right intime for the new year.Cheryl Brown of Oakdale, who coordinates communicationsfor the McKee PTA, edited the project. She said,“I have a great deal of background in my professionalfield in the areas of public relations and publications,and thought this would be a lot of fun to do.”“McKee Cooks” embues just that image.Its bright red cover, and the full color divider pages,all feature McKee students and their families engagedin, what else -- cooking!The 250-page book features more than 500 familyrecipes and cooking tips.Cheryl was assisted by Linda Diffendal of NorthFayette in the book’s compilation. Ericka Zerbini ofOakdale provided the photography, and Sara Stevensserved as the administrative coordinator throughoutthe project.The cookbook includes sections for Appetizers andBeverages, Bread and Muffins, Soups, Stews, Salads,and Sauces, Main Courses, Vegetables and VegetarianDishes, Desserts, Pies, Cakes, and Cookies, and a Miscellaneoussection.There is also a spice guide, an oven temperature chart,and a guideline of the temperatures to be used for bakingflour mixtures.A page listing how to convert sizes of utensils, such ashow much a baking pan, custard cup or mixing bowlholds, is also a helpful resource. One will also find a pagefor microwave cooking tips and even, simply, a pagefeaturing the commandments for happy living.For those who like organization, the back pages featurean alphabetized index of recipes.There are even a few blank pages for “Notes.”Among the homeruns in recipe submissions is theStofan Family.Alex and Mary Catherine Stofan submitted upwards of100 recipes, some in memory of their family members,and featuring many traditional western Pennsylvaniaethnic dishes such as “Guletts -- A Belgian Cookie,” “Hamand Cabbage Soup,” “Stuffed Cabbage,” and “Easy CheesePotatoes from Poland.”Evoking memories of the West Allegheny cafeteria daysof the 70s, the Stofan’s also submitted, “Pizza Burgers.”Not to be outdone, Amy and Sarah Hollister submittedmore than 100 recipes from their kitchen.Ciara Terabasso submitted the “Creamy VegetableCasserole” and “Cranberry Supreme Salad” in memory of46 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

her grandma, Mary Lou Messner, while Skylar Brown submitted“Grammy’s Dainty Delites” in memory of Grammy Betty LouBrown.Among the more unique entries are “Whiskey Bread Pudding”submitted by Amy and Sarah Hollister, “Carrots and RutabagaMash” by Laurie Crossley, and “Velveeta Fudge” by Mi Mi Spakand Delaney Upton.For this writer, a chocolate lover by heart, the favorite, handsdown, is the “York Peppermint Brownies” recipe submitted by Lisaand Joshua Dixon. Oh, and of course, the “Hershey Bar Pie,”submitted by the Hollisters, and “Ho Ho Cake,” by Lisa and HankHays.An especially endearing aspect of the cookbook is that it’s simple,easy to follow, and doesn’t list calories or fat grams.Now that’s some happy eating!Apple Dumplings1 c. sugar1/8 t. cinnamon2 T. butter6 3-in. MacIntosh apples1 c. water1/8 t. nutmeg2 pre-made puff pastry sheetssubmitted by Kathi ScholzPreheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare sauce: combine sugar,water and spices in small sauce pan; bring to boil; add butter tomelt; remove from heat and set aside. Prepare apples: floursurface and lay frozen pastry dough flat to defrost; cut into 6x6 -inch squares; peel and core apples; cut in half and place 2halves in center of dough square; fill with sugar; sprinklegenerously with cinnamon and nutmeg and place a pat of butteron top. Bring up all four sides and pinch dough together. Placeall 6 dumplings in a greased 9 x 13 glass pan. Bake 40 minutes.Baste and sprinkle with sugar during baking.York Peppermint Brownies submitted by Lisa and Joshua Dixon1 1/2 c. butter, melted1 T. vanilla2 c. flour1 t. baking powder36 sm. peppermint patties3 c. sugar5 eggs1 c. Hershey’s cocoa1 t. saltHeat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 baking dish. Combinebutter,sugar, eggs and vanilla in large bowl. Stir in flour, cocoa,baking powder; blend well. Reserve 2 cups batter; spreadremaining batter into prepared pan. Arrange peppermint pattiesin single layer over batter. Spread reserve batter over patties.Bake 50-55 minutes or until brownies begin to pull away frompan. Cool completely before cutting.ABOVE: The book’s cover features Skylar Brown fromMrs. Bateman’s third grade, and Tattyanne Zerbini,from Mrs. Burn’s third grade, making up a yummyvegetable casserole.“McKee Cooks” is available for purchase from theschool for $14.95, cash or check, payable to McKeePTA. Proceeds from the cookbook will be delegatedto the Teacher’s Wish Fund, which will enableteachers to purchase additional educationalmaterials to benefit classroom learning for thechildren. Orders may be sent to McKee ElementarySchool Cookbook, 1501 Oakdale Road, Oakdale, PA15071 or by calling (724) 693-8451.PICTURED, BELOW: Left to right: It’s pasta night at Sarah Hollister’s house. Sarah and friends Mitchell Gumbert and Eric Diffendal enjoyspaghetti. Sarah is the daughter of Amy and Brett Hollister; Mitchell’s parents are Walt and Kristie Gumbert; and Eric is the son of Don and LindaDiffendal, all of North Fayette. Kennedy Reed and her sister, Mackenzie, make a batch of homemade chocolate candy. They are the daughters ofAmy and Bob Reed of Oakdale. McKee friends Baleigh Hopkins, Tanner Prevade, Hannah Davis, and Chloe Kehm get ready to grill someshishkebobs. They are the children of Tim and Dana Hopkins, Paul and Michelle Prevade, Bill and Dawn Davis, and Jerry and Tiffany Kehm, all ofOakdale.February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 47

MSA sports announcers Jonathan Whaley left, and Paul Paterra, right, interviewCatherine about her Allegheny West Youth Corner article (the experience of spending an eveningwith a sports announcer.)--- Catherine Roberts

Catherine interviews coach ChuckCrummie of Central Catholic. Catherine interviews Jonathan Whaley, MSA SportsNetwork announcer and host of the upcoming television sportsshow, “Against the Grain.”Catherine is a 7th grader at Holy Trinity School in Robinson andresides in North Fayette Township with her family.

FINDLAY TOWNSHIPDEVELOPMENTChapman Commerce Center will get underway, now that it has receivedapproval by the township supervisors.The first project at the site, located at the Westport Road interchange on theFindlay Connector, will be a 90,000-square-foot warehouse and office building.Chapman encompasses more than 300 acres of property that belonged to theImperial Land Corporation.Over time, it will eventually encompass up to 20 buildings representing spacefor industrial and warehouse needs, as well as office space. Some of thebuildings will be smaller and will provide such uses as service and hospitalityfacilities.Residentially, the Sun Ridge development is approved for construction startingthis spring. Single family homes featuring one and a half story village-typestructures will be built in Imperial adjacent to Mystic Hills.The developer is Sean & Company, LP, of Aliquippa.PARKS & RECREATIONThe contract has been let for the installation of the soccer field lightingat the Recreation and Sports Complex on Route 30.I&Y Construction of Bedford is the contractor for the $147,900 projectthat is being financed through MUSCO Lighting and a donation fromDick’s Sporting Goods.The Montour Trail Council, in conjunction with Findlay and North FayetteTownships, have received an award from ACTA -- the Airport CorridorTransportation Association -- for the installation of the traffic alert systemon Cliff Mine Road at the Montour Trail crossing near the Settle Inn.The installation will improve the safety at this crossing. The project waspossible as the result of a $30,000 grant from State Senator John Pippy.TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATIONAten Road Phase II repaving from the bridge to the cul-de-sac isscheduled for completion this year. Liquid Fuels funds in the amount of$178,349 have been allocated for the project.Imperial Pointe cul-de-sacs are also scheduled for milling and repaving.This first phase of the two-phase project will include milling and repavingthese streets: Pinion, Engelman, Tamarack, Cedar, Lodgepole, Aspen,Sitka, and Balsam.The second phase of the project, which is being planned for 2010, willinclude Ponderosa and the entire length of Birch Street within the plan.As a means to improve traffic flow in the Montour Run interchangearea, Findlay is working with Moon and North Fayette Townships tocoordinate a synchronization project for all traffic signals that handletraffic at the interchange. After a traffic study is completed, work willinclude updating of equipment combined with controllers that willsynchronize the signals according to the study findings to provideoptimum efficiency.This project is being done through a grant from the SouthwestPennsylvania Commission.EARLY REMINDERSpring Leaf and Yard Waste Pick-Up will be Saturday, May 9. While thatis still awhile away, residents are asked to make a note of this date asthey begin to clean up from the winter season.50 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

All materials from yard cleanups must be placed in 30-gallon paperbiodegradable bags only. Additionally, limbs and branches are to bebundled and are not to exceed three inches in diameter or be more than36 inches long.NORTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIPDEVELOPMENTIrongate Ventures has removed its plans to build Irongate, a proposed400-home development adjacent to Stonebridge, from the drawing board.According to the “Pittsburgh Business Times,” Irongate Ventures LLC isfacing foreclosure on 230 acres of property for non-payment of mortgagesit acquired from the Home Savings and Loan Company in Ohio.PARKS & RECREATIONA multipurpose building at the new Donaldson Park should be readywhen the park opens this spring. It will include room for selling concessions,holding storage, and housing restrooms, and will be located nearthe three baseball fields.The park is taking shape with the new multipurpose building and thesuper playground that was constructed by community volunteers in the fall.OAKDALE BOROUGHRECYCLINGA new recycling bin is now available at the borough building for residentsto drop off their recyclables any time of day or night.The recycling program permits these items to be brought to the site:newspapers, magazines, catalogs, telephone books, soft cover books, junkmail and envelopes, paper, paperboard from such items as cereal and sodaboxes, cardboard, brown paper bags, plastic narrow neck bottles, andmetal cans.Not permitted in the recycling bin are glass, foam packaging, styrofoam,and light bulbs.Residents are asked to break down their items before depositing them inthe bin.MARK YOUR CALENDARThe Oakdale Hose Company will host a Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday,February 21. For more information, call (724) 693-9740.TAKE NOTENorth Fayette invites residents to attend a public meeting on Wednesday,February 25 at 7 p.m., which will divulge findings from the Hankey Farms Poolfeasibility study that has been ongoing. Aquatic Facility Design, the companycontracted to perform the study, will be on hand to release their findings andanswer questions from the public. The meeting will be held at the NorthFayette Township Building.Providing Door-to-Door Servicesin the Airport AreaMAKES A GREAT GIFT IDEA ANY TIME!February 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 51

Neighborhood CouponsAn effective yet affordable way to reach 12,000 homes and businesses plus another 3,000 copies distributedaround the neighborhood? Just $125 for these spaces costs LESS THAN ONE PENNY EACH! It’s the most affordableway to reach out with your product or service! These coupon pages are available in all three editions --West Allegheny, Moon, and Montour. To inquire, call (724) 695-3968, or send an e-mail to:alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net.Verri Chiropractic Associates, P.C.Greater Pittsburgh Joint and Muscle CenterJUST$125FOR THISSPACE!52 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009

Tribute to a Girl Scout Leader:Laurie Crossley Honored with Girl Scout AwardGirl Scouts, leadership, and Laurie Crossley of NorthFayette are synonymous with each other.For the past two decades, 49-year-old Laurie Crossleyhas been an icon in the West Alleghenyneighborhood of Girl Scouts.Her best friend, Diane Lazarowicz, herselfinvolved in Girl Scouts, says, “I have knownLaurie Crossley for almost 20 years. Duringthat time I was always struck by herdedication to Girl Scouts. She would spendendless hours planning meaningful lessonsfor her troop, you know, the types of lessonsthat last a lifetime.”To that end, Girl Scout leaders and parents, GirlScouts present and past, gathered at St. ColumbkilleChurch on February 8 to honor and recognize Lauriefor her contributions to Girl Scouts.She was presented with the “Honor Pin” in recognitionof delivering service to two or more geographicareas or audiences. This is for outstanding service thatis above and beyond the councils’ goals and expectationsof the position. Laurie was recommended for thisand three individuals had to submit letters of endorsement.This is a Board of Directors approved award.Laurie has been a Girl Scout for her entire life,beginning as a scout member and later as a leader.Unfortunately, Laurie is suffering from lung cancer.And her Girl Scout family has rallied around her tohelp, including this outstanding honor to recognize herachievements that have benefited many young womenover her years of service.As Diane continued, “Laurie is a true leader and rolemodel for young girls.She showed the girls the rewardsof giving back to their community and instilled a truepassion in them for serving others.”Along with running her troop, Laurie took onadditional responsibilities for many other GirlScout activities. She worked with troop leaders andwould personally attend their meetingsto help get them started. Laurie hasbeen so committed to Girl Scouts thatshe always put her entire self into it. Ithas been her passion.Diane added, “It is Laurie’s leadershipthat has inspired these young women toalways be the best that they can be. As aparent with a daughter in Laurie’s troop,I am honored to know her.”BINGOat theSTURGEONEVERY FRIDAYNIGHT:EARLY BIRD at 6:30 PMBINGO at 7 PM526 Main Street, SturgeonVolunteer Fire DepartmentHall Rentals Available(724) 926-9149Air Conditioned$2.00 OFFCOUPON1 CPN PER PLAYERPER NIGHTNOT VALID WITH ANYOTHER COUPONexpires 3/30/09AWMFebruary 2009 Allegheny West Magazine 53

FINDLAY TOWNSHIPOffice InformationFindlay Mun. Ctr., 1271 Rt. 30, Clinton, PA 15026, 724/695-0500, website:www.findlay.pa.us, Hours: 8 am-4:30 pmSupervisors: Thomas J. Gallant, Chrmn.; Janet Craig, V. Chrmn.; Raymond Chappell, Mbr.;Twp. Mgr: Gary Klingman; Asst. Twp. Mgr.: Chris Caruso; Bldg. Inspector: Russ Collins;Solicitors: E.J. Strassburger & Alan Schuckrow; Plmbg./Sewer Inspector: Tim Cook; PublicWorks Director: John O’NealMeetingsSupervisors: Caucus: 1st Thur. monthly - 7 pm, Regular on 2nd Wed. monthly - 7 pm,Workshop on 4th Thur. monthly - 7 pmPlanning Commission: Regular on 4th Tues. monthly - 7 pmZoning Hearing Bd.: Regular on 3rd Mon. monthly - 7 pmMunicipal Authority: Regular on 4th Mon. monthly - 6 pmServicesTrash/ Recycling: Waste Management of Pa., (724) 228-4200Municipal Authority: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 724/695-3108Parks and RecreationOpen Apr. 1-Oct. 31, 8 am to Sunset, Pavilion rentals: 8 am-11 pm, $50 residents/$75 nonresidents+ $25 deposit, call township for detailsTaxesEarned Inc./Occup. Priv.: Barb Coates 724/695-0521;Real Estate: Dorothy McCullough, 724/695-2995EmergenciesPolice: 9-1-1 or (724)695-7777 ~ Non-Emergency (724)695-1300Fire: 9-1-1 or (724)695-7777 ~ Non-Emergency (724)695-8845Ambulance 9-1-1 or (724)695-7777NORTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIPOffice Information400 N. Branch Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071, Hours: 8 am - 5 pm412/788-4888/724-693-9601, website: www.north-fayette.comSupervisors: John Meyers, Jim Morosetti, J.R. ManganMgr.: Robert Grimm; Bldg. Inspector: Mike Saville; Public Works Director: Victor Rogale;Bob Brozovich, Parks & Rec. Director; Solicitor: Vincent TucceriMeetingsSupervisors: Workshop: 1st Thursday monthly - 7:30 pm, Regular 2nd Tuesday monthly -7:30 pmPlanning Commission: Regular on 3rd Tuesday monthly - 7:30 pmJoint Board: Meet as requiredZoning Hearing Board: Meet as requiredParks & Recreation: Regular: 3rd Monday monthly, 7 pmWater Authority (@ Water Auth.): 3rd Tuesday monthly, 7:30 pmPayroll: Regular: 4th Tuesday monthly, 7:30 pmTransportation Auth.: Meetings vary, call officeServicesRecycling: Every other week. Special containers available. Accept clear & colored glass,aluminum & bi-metal beverage cans and steel (tin) food cans, plastic food, soda, & milkcontainers--types 1 & 2 only. Contact twp. office for complete schedule & guidelines.Water: Western Allegheny County Municipal Authority (W.A.C.M.A.) (412) 788-4337;emergency: (412) 787-8900Parks and RecreationPavilion rentals: 11 am-11 pm, Community Ctr. 1 mtg. room and 1 recreation room, calltownship for ratesFood Pantry: 2nd & 4th Tues., 9 a.m.-Noon; 3rd Wed., 5:30 pm-7 pmHankey Farms Pool, (summer season only) (412) 788-0806 after 11:30 am wknds.late May; Daily in summer from June 4; noon-7:00 pm, Family pass: $200; Individual pass:$100; couples/dual: $170; Daily Rates: $5 adults, $3 children 3 yrs-12 yrs, free for under 2yrs old, $1 observers/non-swimmers. Children under 10 must be w/an adult.TaxesEarned Inc./Occup. Privilege/R.E.: Tom Falcioni (724) 693-9366Township Tax Assessor: Cindy Zimecki (412) 473-3161EmergenciesPolice - 9-1-1; non-emergency (412) 787-8900;Fire - 9-1-1; non-emergency (412) 787-2883NorthWest EMS - 9-1-1; non-emergency (412) 331-2600Website: www.northfayettevfd.org, www.nortwestems.netSTURGEON: Emergency: 9-1-1-, Non-emergency: (724) 926-9149Website: www.sturgeonfd.south-fayette.pa.usMcDONALD BOROUGHOffice Information151 School St., McDonald PA 15057, (724) 926-8711,Fax: (724) 926-2750, Office Hrs: M-F 8 am-4 pm, www.mcdonaldboro.comMeetingsReg. Mtg. 1st Mon., 7:30 pm, Planning Comm. & Zoning Bd., as neededEmergenciesFire, Police & EMS: 9-1-1Non-Emergency: Fire Only (724) 926-9190Website: www.mcdonaldfire.comOAKDALE BOROUGHOffice Information6115 Noblestown Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071, 724/693-9740,Fax: 724/693-0100Website: www.oakdaleborough.com, Hrs: M-F 8:30 am-4:30 pmCouncil: Huck Gamble, President; Russ Campbell, Vice President; Councilmembers: Keith Merlino, Paul Hennemuth, Tom Potts, Ross Rohbeck, Mayor;Vince Tucceri, Esq.; Michele Cromer, Esq.; Kelly Rohbeck, BoroughSecretary; Laura Ahlborn, Assistant SecretaryMeetings: Council: 1st Wed. monthly, 7:30 pm, Community Ctr., ZoningHearing Bd.: On RequestTAXESCounty Real Estate Payments:March 31 with discount; Face: After MarchQuestions concerning county taxes call:412/350-4100School Real Estate Payments:Discount: Aug. 31; Face: Oct. 31; Penalty: Nov. 1Questions: (724) 693-9366(schedules may change seasonally)Allegheny West Christian, Minister Faron Franklin7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale PA 15071, 412/788-8818,Sun. blended worship 11 am, eve svc 6:30 pm, Wed. Biblestudy 7 pm, children’s programs during both Worship &Bible studyChurch of Jesus Christ, Pastor Robert Buffington57 Moore Rd., Clinton PA 15026, 724/899-3935Svcs: Sun. 10 am, 6:30 pm, Wed., 11 amChurch of the Living Christ, Rev. Brian Henry220 W. Allegheny Rd., P.O. Box 46, Imperial, PA 15126724/695-7188, Sun. Svc. 10:30 am, Wed. Family Night7 pm, nursery all services, www.cotlc.comChurch of the Nazarene, Pastor Angela Kress507 Rt. 30, Imperial, PA 15126, 724/947-9223, Sun. School10 am, Sun. worship 11 am and 6 pm, Wed. 7 pmClinton United Presbyterian, TBABox 175, 25 Wilson Rd., Clinton, PA 15026, 724/695-7993,Sun. School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am, youth fellowship Sun.6:30 pm, Nursery during services, youth night Tues. 3:30-5:30 pm grades 2-5Clinton Wesleyan, Rev. Ted Chapman1022 Moon Clinton Rd., Clinton, PA 15026, 724/695-7076,Sun. School 9:30 am, worship & children’s church 10:45am, adult bible study, kids club (preschool-gr 6) & youthgroup (gr 7-12) Wed. 7-8:15 pm, prayer mtg. Fridays, 6 pmCrossroads United Methodist, Rev. Steve Cordle1000 Crossroads Dr., Oakdale, PA 15071, 412/494-9999,Sat. 6:30 pm, Sun. 9 am, 10:15 am, 11:30 am, WeeKidzone Ministry-birth-preschool all svcs, Kidzone Ministry,K-5, 6:30 am, 10:15 am, 11:30 am, MS Ministry, Sun., 6-7:30 p.m., HS, 7:30-9 pmCovenant Church, Pastors Keith & Lynn EggertSun. 10:30 am, Springhill Suites, NF Twp., 724/263-7147Hebron UP, Rev. George Leitze1767 Route 30, Clinton, PA 15026, 724/899-2276Summer-10 am, Sept.-May-11 am, Sunday School 9:45am, Sept.-May all agesImmanuel Orth. Presby. , Pastor Mark GarciaW. Allegheny Comm. Library Bldg., 8042 Steubenville Pike,Oakdale PA 15071,412/474-3266,SCHOOLSWest Allegheny School District, Box 55, Imperial, PA 15126, 724/695-3422Parkway West Career & Technology Center, 7101 Steubenville Pike,Oakdale, PA 15071, 412/923-1772Pittsburgh Technical Institute, 1111 McKee Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071412/809-5100Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), 1000 McKee Rd.,Oakdale PA 15071, 412/788-6464WEST ALLEGHENY CHURCHESwww.immanuelOPCPgh.org, Sun. 11 am & 6 pm , Sun.morning instruction, 9:30 amKingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses198 N. Branch Rd., Oakdale PA 15071, 724/693-8150Sunday Worship: 10 am, 1 pm, Bible Study Tues. &Thurs. 7:30 pmMontours UP, Rev. James A. Evans3151 Montour Church Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071, 412/787-1050, 10 am June-Aug, 11 am w/9:30 am Sun. SchoolSept-May, Svc. of Wholeness & Healing 2nd Sun monthlyNoblestown UM, Rev. Rich Updegraff7313 Noblestown Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071-1905724/693-2755, 9 am service, Sun. Learning & Fellowship10:15 am pre-school to grade 12 and two adult classesNoblestown UP, Rev. Dr. Patty Giles-Petrosky7427 Noblestown Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071724/693-8250, 10 a.m., Service, 11 am Sun. SchoolOakdale UP Church, Rev. Mark Simond62 Hastings Ave., Oakdale, PA 15071, 724/693-895011 a.m., Sunday School 9:30 amResurrection Lutheran, Rev. Emilie Theobald-Rowlands7600 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale, PA 15071, 412/788-4513, Worship & Sun School, 9 am, Bible study, Mon 10am. Thurs eve open to community for prayer, no worshipSt. Columbkille R.C., Rev. Domenic Mancini103 Church Rd., Imperial, PA 15126, 724/695-7325Svcs: M-F 8 am, Wed. 7:15 pm, Sat., 6:30 pm, Sun. 7:30am, 9 am, 10:30 am, noonSt. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Fr. Walter Sabon7322 Noblestown Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071,724/693-9260, www.saint-patrick-parish.com, ParishOffice, 724/693-8447-Rel. Educ.&Youth Min, Svcs.: Sat. 6pm, Sun. 10:30 am, Tues & Thurs 8 amValley UP, Pastor Jeri-Lynne Bouterse237 Main St., Imperial, PA 15126, 724/695-0300-Office,Worship 10:30 am, Sun. School all ages to adult-9:30 am,www.valleychurchweb.comWest Ridge Christian Community Church, Rev. BillBolin, 100 Gorwood Dr., Coraopolis, PA 15108, 724/695-7500, www.wrccc.org, email: info@wrccc.org, 9:00 & 11am, & Kids Quest & nursery; Grd. Level Youth, Wed. 7 pmCOMMUNITY/CIVIC/SOCIAL/PROFESSIONALAmerican Legion Post 171, 866-693-8759American Legion Auxiliary, 724/926-2643American Legion Post 335, TBAAmerican Legion Post 485, 724/926-8825Business Network Intl. (BNI) Airport Chapter, 412/941-0101CBX-Commonwealth Business Exchange, 412/788-8211Daughters of the American Revolution, jacobferree@yahoo.comHollow Oak Land Trust, 412/264-5354Imperial Lions Club, (724) 695-0568Kiwanis Club, 412/264-6419Masonic Lodge, Oakdale, 724/899-2440McDonald Area Development Corp., 724/926-4617Montour Run Watershed Assn., 412/835-4033, www.mrwa.infoMontour Trail Council, (412) 257-3011Montour Valley Grange, (724) 695-0481Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), Hebron 724/899-3669,Valley 724/774-6317, Oakdale, (412) 494-9999North Fayette Garden Club, 724/693-8413North Fayette Republican Committee, 412/788-2840Parkway West Rotary,(412) 292-4140Pgh. Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, 412/264-6270SNPJ Lodge 106, 724/695-1411 or 695/1100SturgeonAthletic Association, 724/926-2150The ROCK Community Center in Oakdale, (724) 693-2777The Small Business Network (TSBN), 412/367-5979VFW & Ladies Auxiliary, 412/788-4674 or 724/695-8866Walden Woods Community Svc. Assn., 724/695-8100West Allegheny Adopt-A-Highway, TBDWest Allegheny Historical Association, 724/695-2469Western Ally. Friends to Enhance Library (WAFEL), 724/695-8150Services: Trash Pickup: 724/693-9740; Water: 724/693-9740Parks and RecreationOpen May-Oct.; Pavilion rentals: $60 plus $45 deposit - residents; $90 plus $45deposit - non-residents, call borough for info; Community Center: Rentals-724/693-9740; Sr. Citizens-724/693-8540Taxes: Donna Swider, Real Estate Tax CollectorEmergenciesPolice & Fire: 9-1-1 Non-Emergency: (412) 331-2600; Ambulance 9-1-1Non-Emergency: (412) 761-2200Website: www.oakdalehosecompany.orgSERVICESAllegheny Power : 800-255-3443Bureau of Mine Subsidence: 800-922-1678Cable TV: Comcast: 412/264-6600Columbia Gas Co.: 888-460-4332Community Access TV:Channel 14: 412/269-1191Robt. Morris University: 412/262-8377Dept. of Agriculture: 724/443-1585Dept. of Elections: 412/350-4500Dept. Environ. Protection: (814) 332-6945Dog Licenses: 412/350-4111Duquesne Light Co.: 800-393-7100Hankey Farms Swimming Pool: (412) 788-0806Meals on Wheels: 724/899-3602 or 724/695-0634Media:Allegheny Times: (412) 269-1144Allegheny West Magazine: (724) 695-3968Post-Gazette West: (724) 375-6814Tribune Review: (412) 320-7945Pa. American Water Co.: 800-474-7292Peoples Gas/Dominion Cust. Svc: 800-764-0111Settlers Cabin Park, (412) 787-2750, TennisCourts, 412/787-2824, Wave Pool, 412/787-2667Triangle Pet Control: 412/771-7387Western Alleg. Commun. Library: 724/695-8150West Allegheny Food Pantry: 724/695-1305West Allegheny Thrift Store: 724/695-1305SR. CITIZEN GRPS.Findlay Township: 724/695-0500North Fayette Seniors, (412) 788-4888LifeSpan Oakdale Senior Resource Center, atOakdale Community Ctr: Seminary Ave.,Oakdale, 724/693-8540 or 693-2621,dward@lifespanpa.orgSt. Columbkille: 724/695-7325CHILDCARECoddlers Daycare, 412/787-1311Crossroads U. Meth. Preschool, 412/494-9999Helping Hands Childcare, 724/695-9200Kristy’s Kiddie Care, 724/926-4200Little Folks, 412/787-8822Oakdale Kids Korner, 724/693-9733Resurrection Luth. Nursery, 412/788-4513St. Columbkille Preschool, 724/695-2146Sunny’s Wee Kids Palace, 412/788-2273Teddy Bear Village Child Care, 724/695-3490YOUTH ORGANIZATIONSBoy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Venturing Crew:General No.: (412) 325-7963Findlay 724-695-7526 (Cubs), 724/695-1125 (BS)N. Fayette 412/889-8748 (Cubs), 724/695-2614 (BS)Oakdale 724/693-2994 (Cubs), 724/693-2611 (BS)Findlay Athl. Assn., 724/695-7790Girl Scouts, W.A., 724/693-8493North Fayette Athletic Association, 412/580-0655Oakdale Youth League, 724/693-9830WAYA (Little Indians--WA YouthFootball & Cheerleading Assn.), 724/695-2449West Allegheny Aqua Club, 724/693-8395West Allegheny Ice Hockey Assn., 724/695-3144West Allegheny Youth Soccer, 724/695-1984or 724/695-0941West Allegheny Youth Wrestling, 724/695-3787Western Area YMCA, 412/787-3430Youthtowne, 724/695-2306 or 724/899-3910Al-A-Non and Ala-A-Teen, 724/926-339654 55 Allegheny West Magazine February 2009At one time there was an association called the Community Council of Clinton? Its role was to promote by organized, non-partisaneffort, the better social, moral, physical, and political health of the community of Clinton. One of the association’s projects was toprepare, print, and distribute a brochure called, “The Town of Clinton.”

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