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enn Hills WINTER 2011 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE safety-driven Penn Hills ANNUAL

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Page 1: NI Penn Hills

enn HillsWINTER 2011 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

safety-driven

Penn Hills AnnuAl

Page 2: NI Penn Hills

120 over 80. What’s it worth to U?

Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money. That’s because HealthyU offers fi nancial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a fl u shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.

Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan.

upmchealthyu.com

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IN Penn Hills | WINTER 2011 |

INSIDE

ON THE COVER | Penn Hills annual Christmas train display • photos by Gary Yon

IN Penn Hills is a community publication dedicated to representing,encouraging and promoting the Penn Hills area and its comprisingmunicipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who liveand work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative andprofessional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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COMMUNITY INTEREST

Penn Hills Keeps the “Lights On Afterschool” | 3

Holocaust Survivor Tells Story | 6

Quilts Star of the Quilt Company East Guild Show | 8

Holiday Memories | 9

Fitness Instructor Zumbas for the Cure | 10

Penn Hills Chamber of Commerce | 12

UPMC Today | | 13

Trinity Tower United Methodist Reaches Out | 22

St. Bartholomew’s 61st Annual Festival | 26

FEATURE

Older Adults in Penn Hills | 28

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Energy Savers, Inc. | 21

learn more on page 4

Want to reach OVER 49,933 potential customers in Penn Hills?

ADVERTISE iN Penn Hills Magazine

Call [email protected]

Page 4: NI Penn Hills

IN Penn Hills | WINTER 2011 |

PUBLISHER

MANAGING EDITOR

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WRITERS

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PROOFREADER

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

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This magazine is carrier route mailed to all districthouseholds and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in partwithout written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011.

CORRESPONDENCEDirect all inquiries, comments and press releases to:

IN Community MagazinesAttn: Editorial603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring content deadline: 2/14

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Welcome to the Winter issue of Penn Hills magazine. I hope you and yours had awonderful fall, that the kids transitioned back to school well, and that you had an

opportunity to catch a few Steelers games along the way.We all view winter differently—some see it as the holiday season, some see it as the

gloomy period when we put away the swim trunks and patio furniture. Otherssee it as their opportunity to break out the skis and sleds and hit the

slopes. no matter how you view it, winter is a time when we have tobe the most diligent, despite our mood about snow, or our

preoccupation with playing in it, for those who need us themost—our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many of them toget around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial ofterror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will Iget groceries? Will I be home before it’s too dark for me to seethe road well enough to drive? And for those who have

transitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be ofan altogether different, but equally unsettling nature. Will anyone

visit me for Christmas? Hanukkah? new Year’s? These are ourmothers, fathers, friends and neighbors, and they don’t like to ask

anything of us. But they need us just the same. I know the economy is bad,and I’m not saying go out and spend money you can’t afford, but going caroling with a churchgroup, or visiting someone who has no one is free to us all. Chances are, you’ll not only put asmile on their faces, you’ll be giving them something money can’t buy—the feeling thatsomeone cares.

Have a joyous holiday and a happy new Year!

Wayne DollardPublisher

I agree with Andy Williams. It is the most wonderful time of the year. Welcome to the winteredition of Penn Hills.

This is is the season of hustle and bustle, Christmas carols, and most importantly good cheer.In this edition, you’ll find out about Eva Schloss, a Holocaust survivor who shared her

harrowing story with Penn Hills students. We also dropped in on the quiltshow sponsored by the Quilt Company East Guild, a very talented

group whose members craft amazing quilts. It is also the season of giving, and in this edition, we feature the

outreach council of Trinity Tower united Methodist Church,who are involved in a number of projects that help peoplethroughout Allegheny County and even into WestmorelandCounty. They’re just the warmest, most giving folks you’d everwant to meet.

Speaking of giving, in this edition we caught up with Zumbadynamo and cancer survivor Catherine Brennan, who holds an

annual Zumba for the Cure event to raise money for the Pittsburghchapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. With the help

of her Zumbettes, she is truly an inspirational force. Our spring edition is next and we’d love to hear

from you regarding the people, places and eventsyou’d like to see us cover.

During this holiday season, we’d like to wish youpeace and goodwill. And as always we hope you enjoythis edition of Penn Hills.

Monica L. HaynesEastern Regional

Editor

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

cross the country, many children go home to an emptyhouse where they spend time alone after they finishtheir school day.

Instead of being outside playing games and sports or learninga new skill, they flip on the television or computer for hours.

In Penn Hills School District, school officials are doing theirpart to prevent that from happening to their students bypromoting involvement in linton Middle School’s 21st CenturyCommunity learning Center Magic in the Middle program.

This October, the district joined with schools across thecountry to raise awareness about their afterschool program andthe need it serves in Penn Hills during the annual lights OnAfterschool Day.

Parents, school officials, politicians and program volunteersmet with students who participate in the afterschool programduring a dinner and presentation among other events on Oct. 20at the William E. Anderson library.

“We must keep the lights on and doors open in our schoolsafter hours,” said Mark Wolfe, program administrator.

“Our students need the extra enrichment, and they need asafe place to go after the school bell rings, especially whenparents are working.”

In Penn Hills, theprogram will serve morethan 200 students duringthe fall and summersessions. This year, thefocus for students is onreading, math and scienceoutside of the regularschool day, said StefanieRaspotnik, Penn Hillsprofessional development

and fundingcoordinator.

“Our goal is that bysupporting the studentsthrough their middleschool years, this willenable them to be moreprepared for highschool success.”

To Raspotnik, the program is critical to student successacademically, socially and recreationally.

“This program is vital because it provides students a safe placeto learn and grow together, and this will have a direct impact ontheir future community and societal contribution.”

Penn Hills has offered the program for seven years andpartners with the state Department of Education andCommunities In Schools, the nation’s leading dropoutprevention organization. The organization believes that allstudents need and deserve a one-on-one relationship with acaring adult, a safe place to learn and grow, a healthy start andhealthy future, a marketable skill to have upon graduation anda chance to give back to their peers and the community.

All these are aspects of Penn Hills’ program and contributeto its main goal of increasing school achievement by takingpart in fun, engaging experiences that differ from a child’sschool day, said Raspotnik. In the program, in addition toacademic enrichment and support, students design artwork fora drama production, take part in karate and Zumba classes,learn sewing, knitting and crocheting with a service componentand gain information about the benefits of eating healthy,bullying prevention and conflict resolution skills.

Across Pennsylvania, approximately 26,000 youth are servedby after-school programs like the one in Penn Hills. But theneed is much higher, said Raspotnik.

“We are serving more students this year… It is my hope that the event will bring a greater awareness to the community ofthe need to sustain this program for our students.”

—BY AMANDA S.F. HARTLE—

a

Lights onafTerschool

Darrel Pullie, winner of theLights on Afterschool essay contest

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The employees of Peoples Natural Gas – more than 650 strong – are bringing a new sense of energy to Western

Pennsylvania. With Peoples now fully Pittsburgh based and run, decisions are being made locally -- with an eye

to investing for the energy future of the region. We're making $100 million in infrastructure, service and

technology upgrades to better serve our more than 360,000 customers. Customer service is becoming fully

local, too... with a dedicated new service center staffed by experienced people who thoroughly know the region

and its people. Our vision: to help Western Pennsylvania move forward by creating new jobs and serving our

customers well. It's a commitment we're proud to make.

your energy partner peoples–gas .com

I n t h e p h o t o : D A V E B E R T O N I / F I T T E R L E A D E R

Page 7: NI Penn Hills

new Vision Community Church was started in October 2006by Rev. Jerry Craig as a place to provide the community not onlya place to workship but also a place where one can find God’slove come alive to assist people in their daily walk.

Five years later, what started out as a two-member church,Pastor Craig and his wife, in two small offices in Penn Hills, isnow a thriving ministry, which moved October 21 from laketonRoad to its new location in the former All Saints Church, 1620Randolph lane in Verona.

After finding its laketon Road location in 2008, new Visionbegan several ministries: God’s Provision Ministry (providesemergency food packages), Kid’s Closet Ministry (free clothingexchange), and host site for Angel Food Ministries.  Since theinception of these ministries, new Vision has helped over 650families.  In addition to the community service ministries, new

Vision has also started Women of new Vision, Boys & Girls ofnew Vision, Oneness (A Marriage Ministry), Choices (A PrisonPrevention Ministry), Sunday School, Prayer Meeting & BibleStudy, and Coffee, Tea & HE (midweek service).

Rev. Craig has received an MA in philosophy/religion andis a certified counselor through the International Institute ofFaith Based Counseling.  He is also a member of the PennHills Christian Clergy Association, Association of ChristianCounselors, national Association of Faith Based Counselors,national Association of Pastoral Counselors and Association ofBiblical Counselors.

For more information about new Vision Community Church,please visit .

Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

safety-drivenPeoples Natural Gas is embarking on an extensive program to modernize our infrastructure. More than $100 million will be investedto replace pipelines throughout our 16 county service territory.

In 2011 and 2012, this means replacing 40 miles of old cast-ironpipes wherever they exist. This year and next, Peoples Natural Gas is hiring 60 new pipeline workers. And, we’ ll need to employ almost as many local contract workers. Last year, we brought back 200 jobs tothe region. These are not temporary jobs, but family sustaining jobs – the type of jobs that generations build on.

Through the end of 2012, you will see Peoples Natural Gas employees hard at work on this project. They will be working in the snow and sun to improve the infrastructure for our communities. Our goal is to replace all the cast iron pipe in our entire system. This is an extensive project and we will need your patience and understanding as we work to complete it.

In 2010, Peoples Natural Gas was purchased from an out-of-state company. We are now a Western Pennsylvania managed company. All our management lives in the region. Our sole priority is serving our local communities. Our new company has refocused its total efforts right here. This pipeline replacement program is the first major construction initiative of Peoples Natural Gas and it has been made for your safety, and the need to modernize our infrastructure for the future.

Safety is the number one priority of Peoples Natural Gas. Every day, westrive to keep our customers, our employees and our communitiessafe. Here are 3 Sensible Words about Natural Gas to help keep youand your family safe.

Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses willalert you if a leak occurs.

SIGHTEscaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the group may indicate a natural gas leak.

SOUNDNatural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitchedwhistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure.

SMELLA strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell.

If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples Natural Gas by calling1.800.400.4271.

your energy partner peoples–gas .com

I J

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istory became more than words on a page when Holocaustsurvivor Eva Schloss recounted the horrors of daily life in anAuschwitz concentration camp during a presentation at Penn HillsHigh School on October 24. Her first-hand account of life under

nazi rule was also webcast to 65 otherschools across the country.

“Every day was the same. Wedidn’t know what week it was. Wedidn’t know what month it was,” saidSchloss, a wife, mother of three andgrandmother of five.

In addition to her own harrowingstory, Schloss is connected to thatperiod in another way. Her stepfatherwas Otto Frank, father of Anne Frank,a teenager who did not surviveAuschwitz but became an internationalsymbol of the Holocaust when thediaries she kept while hiding from thenazis were published after World WarII. The diaries have inspired movies andtheater productions about Anne’s life.

It took Schloss four decades to talkabout what happened to her. She spoke about her ordeal for the first timein 1986 during the opening of a traveling exhibit from the Anne FrankMuseum. “I didn’t want to say anything,” Schloss said. But she did.“Everything I had suppressed for years came tumbling out. People said it’sreal important that I tell my story and write it down. Since then, I haven’tbeen quiet.”

In 1988, her memoir, Eva’s Story, was published. It was authored bySchloss and her friend Evelyn Julia Kent. The book chronicles herfamily’s flight from Vienna, Austria, to Belgium and eventuallyAmsterdam, Holland, where they lived in hiding until they werediscovered by the nazis and sent off to concentration camps. Schloss,who was 15 at the time, and her mother, Fritzi, survived. Her father, ErichGeiringer (whom she called Pappy), and her brother, Heinz, did not.Along with co-author Barbara Powers, Schloss has also written anotherbook, aimed at children, called The Promise. That book was theinspiration for a play, “light in the Darkness: A Story of Hope During theHolocaust,” written by J.E. Ballyntine, Jr. Schloss attended the play’sworld premiere in Youngstown, Ohio, on October 14.

The webcast presentation was not Schloss’s first visit to a Penn Hills

school. She has told her story twice before to linton MiddleSchool students, first in 2008 and again last year. The second visit wasvideocast to six other Penn Hills schools. The visits were arranged by

Harold Davis, head of B’nai B’rith of Youngstown, Ohio. Davis scheduled Schloss to

speak at community centers, libraries and schools during her2008 visit. He was also in the audience for this most recentpresentation.

Students in Angela Keeley’s ninth grade English classhave read Eva’s Story and designed tri-fold posters focusingon various aspects of the Holocaust. The posters lined ahallway outside the auditorium, and Schloss and herhusband, Zvi, perused the exhibit after her presentation.

Schloss engaged her young audience, detailing that darkperiod of her life and her connection to Anne Frank – thetwo had been playmates. After the war, Otto Frankmarried Schloss’s mother and worked to keep the legacy ofhis daughter alive. Schloss admits to being a bit jealous atthe time of the attention that Anne’s story received.“Then I thought, ‘How can I resent somebody whodoesn’t have a life?’” Schloss said.

Answering a student’s question about whether her non-Jewish friends changed toward her after the nazis took power, she

recalled going to the home of her best friend, who was Catholic. Thefriend’s mother would not allow her to come in, and slammed the door inher face. “I went home and cried,” Schloss recounted. “I didn’t understand.”She was nine years old at the time.

Asked by another student whether her experience made her questionher faith in God, she saidit did. “We prayed forGod to stop it,” she said.When she was rescuedfrom the camp, sheconsidered herself anatheist. Then she saidthe birth of herdaughter and therealization of dailymiracles and thegoodness of peoplewho did help restoredher faith. But she still

Tells Story to Penn Hills Students

H

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questions why something like the Holocausthappened. “I question, but it is a mystery oflife,” Schloss said. “We will never, never havean answer.”

Everyday life in a concentration camp wasa lesson in humiliation and degradation, butalso a lesson in survival, according to Schloss.“I was so desperate to live. I never, ever gaveup hope that I would make it.” She was closeto not making it a couple of times when shehad been selected for groups that wouldeventually be killed. Each time, however—atthe last minute, for some reason or other—

she was removed from that group. “If youspeak to any Holocaust survivors they’ll tellyou it’s a lot of luck,” Schloss said.

She recalled one particularly terrifyingmoment, when she and a group of womenencountered Dr. Josef Mengele, known as theAngel of Death, when they exited a shower.Schloss was put into one group and hermother into another group, where the womenwere set to be gassed. For three months,Schloss believed that her mother had beenkilled. Eventually, the two were reunited inthe camp. Schloss and her mother wereliberated by the Russians in 1945 andreturned to Holland.

When asked if she had any good memoriesof that time, Schloss responded, “no, I’m afraidnot. It was really terrible. There was neveranything really nice that happened in the camp.”

Schloss recalled how cruel some of thosein charge of the camp groups could be. Shetold of how hungry she and her fellowprisoners often were. If the supervisors werehaving a good day, they might give a prisonerthe water from some boiled potatoes, whichwas like a feast. But if they were having a badday or if they wanted to be especially cruel,the supervisors would call someone over, asif to offer the potato water, only to pour it onthe ground.

Despite everything she has gone through,Schloss said she is very hopeful for a better

world. However, she said the world mustremain vigilant and not look for scapegoatsfor the problems that arise. “We must be verywell aware when we see the evil head ofdiscrimination rearing again,” she said.

Students appreciated Schloss sharing herstory with them.

“It was very powerful because a lot ofpeople don’t know about the Holocaust,” saidVita Vanhausen, who presented Schloss withsome homemade chocolate chip cookies afterher presentation. The guest speaker alsoreceived a Penn Hills jersey with her nameon it, a blanket that read “We love Eva,” agolf shirt, and other gifts.

“I think it’s wonderful that they know somuch and that they’re interested and wantto learn,” Schloss said, “because after the war,people didn’t want to know.”

Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

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8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Penn Hills

uilts and the people who love them got a pre-holidaygift when the Quilt Company East Guild held a three-day quilt show at 3 lakes Golf Club in Penn Hills.

The show, which took place november 3-5,included 125 quilts of various shapes, sizes, colors, fabrics andthemes, as well as other craftwork items. In addition to the quilts ondisplay, there was a vendor mall, a boutique where visitors couldpurchase handmade items by quilt guild members, baskets and aquilt for raffle.

The guild was founded in 1987 and has more than 100 members.All members are encouraged to participate in the biannual quiltshow, whether they are beginners or at the professional level.Represented in the display were traditional, contemporary and artquilts and quilts developed during the guild’s retreats, challenges andother special interest groups. While it was a non-juried show, those

visiting had the opportunity to vote on their favorite quilt. Thathonor went to Ona Marks and her “Affairs of the Heart” quilt.

Another guild member is Gerry Benton of Wilkinsburg, who hadthree quilts in the exhibit. Benton, a fabric artist, has been quiltingsince 1984. “I work in all different mediums,” she said. What shelikes about quilting is that she can incorporate all the other mediums.

Quilt Company East holds meetings on the third Monday of themonth, from September to June at 7:15 p.m. at Beulah PresbyterianChurch in Penn Hills. The guild hosts a number of programsincluding workshops, weekend retreats, bus trips, guest speakers, andquilt auctions, among other activities. Members also make anddonate quilts for organizations such as Children’s Hospital,Bethlehem Haven homeless shelter, senior centers, and a school forhearing-impaired children in Malawi.

Quilts Star of the Quilt Company

East Guild ShowQ

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Christmases of long ago flash thru my mind as I rememberthe 50’s and 60’s. My four kids were young and I thinkbrand names were just making an appearance. There are

two toys that I remember distinctly. Marybeth wanted a “littleRed Spinning Wheel”. That was the first year that I remembergoing from store to store in search of a popular toy. We finally didlocate one. Although the TV ad showed it tran sforming yarn into

all sorts of wonderful things, Marybethnever mastered anything other than a redknitted circle of yarn that just becamelonger and longer. She knotted a 30 inchpiece of it and proudly presented herfather with his new necktie.

Another year, Michael asked forsome sort of gun that shot out canonballs. I found it early in november.Smugly, I put it in lay-a-way withseveral other toys. Early on the 24th , Ipicked up all the boxes held togetherwith twine. At about 8 that evening,Dom started to assemble the toys. I

opened the canon box onlyto find it empty! I drove tothe shopping center andfound the store closed withan emergency number onthe door. I got in touch with the owner who was quitesympathetic,apologetic and empathetic, but unable to doanything about it. The toy sold out late in november. This hadto be a parent’s worst nightmare!

I went to Sun Drug, probably for aspirin for my ensuingheadache. Walking down the toy isle, I spotted a green plasticcanon that ejected ping-pong balls, priced at $1.99. What did Ihave to lose other than two dollars? I took it home, put it into theempty box and put it under the tree. The next morning, I held mybreath as Michael o pened the box. He squealed with delight andstarted to bombard his sisters with canon balls. Over the yearswhen my grown up children have shown signs of apoplexy whenthey have been unable to find a requested toy, I remind them ofthe Canon Story. It was the best two dollars I ever spent!

Pat Trapani, Verrona

HolidayHolidayMemories

The Trapani Family today

Michael Trapani around thetime the story takes place

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here were lots of laughs and lots of sweat as breast cancersurvivor and certified Zumba instructor Catherine Brennan ofPenn Hills held the Fourth Annual Zumba for the Cure October

23 at the Penn Hills YMCA. The event, which included 24 instructors from across Pennsylvania

and 260 registered participants – 24 of them breast cancer survivors,raised money for the Pittsburgh affiliate of the Susan G. KomenFoundation. In addition to the registration fees and sponsorships, moneywas also raised through a silent auction,which included 45 gift baskets.

It is difficult to know whether Brennangets her energy from the crowd or theyget theirs from her, but there’s nostopping either once the music startspumping and the instructors take to thestage. In addition to overseeing the event,Brennan got her Zumba on with theparticipants before leading the final fewminutes. She brought all the breast cancersurvivors to the floor in front, while two ofthe ladies “Zumbaed” on either side of heron stage.

This year’s event had 100 moreparticipants than last year. Butthe whole thing is about morethan making money. It’s abouteducation and celebration,Brennan said.

“I organize this event inmemory of my mother,Susanna Howard, who diedfrom a rare form of breastcancer three months before Iwas diagnosed,” Brennan said.“She was an amazing womanwho taught me so much. Thisevent celebrates her life.”

Participants have the chanceto celebrate those who’ve foughtor are fighting breast cancer onthe Wall of Warriors, where they can post messages and photos. The wallwill be delivered to the Pittsburgh office of the Susan G. KomenFoundation, along with the $8,300 that was raised from the event.

Brennan came up with the idea for a Zumbathon in 2008. The firstevent, put together in less than six weeks, had about 88 participants andraised about $1,700, she said. When she took the money to the Susan G.Komen Foundation, the staff had never heard of Zumba. She put the

foundation in touch with the national office of Zumba and now there areZumbathons, called “Party in Pink,” all over the world. To date, $500,000has been raised from these international events, Brennan said.

Her event is nearing the $20,000 mark for total funds raised. Each year,Brennan’s Zumba for the Cure has gottenmore participants. “People are just very,very generous when it comes to this,” shesaid. “I plan to do it next year, but it’ll haveto be a bigger place. We were a littlecrowded this year, but it was a goodcrowded.”

Brennan teaches Zumba Tuesday andThursday nights at the universal Fire Hallno. 6 in Penn Hills. Among her students are12 fellow breast cancer survivors. Many ifnot all of them help out in some way withthe Zumba for the Cure event, in additionto her other students. Brennan calls the

women who support her endeavorsher “Zumbettes.” For this year’s event,there were 50 volunteers. “Theysupport me no matter what I do. Theywere right there, welcoming people,thanking people for coming. I thinkthat says something, too, when youget that many people giving support,”Brennan said.

As if organizing an annual eventand teaching fitness classes isn’tenough, Brennan—a wife, mother offive and grandmother of three—works for uPMC and also leads thewarm-up for the annual Susan G.Komen Foundation’s Race for theCure held on Mother’s Day. “I have

a granddaughter. By the time she gets older she’s not going to have toworry about this,” Brennan said.

Breast cancer is not a sisterhood any woman wants to be a part of,Brennan said. But anyone who does become part of it is glad to have thesupport of the other women that make up that sisterhood. “I think thebiggest thing for me is when they tell me I’m an inspiration,” Brennansaid. “That’s so humbling to me because I promised my mother I wouldmake a difference.”

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

INTRODUCING OUR NEWEST DOCTOR

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

Erika Ramsey, DOInternal MedicineDr. Ramsey received her medical degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency in internal medicineat UPMC Shadyside. Dr. Ramsey, the physicians, and staff provideprimary care services as well as care for chronic conditions, women’s health concerns, depression, and anxiety.

5129 Liberty Ave.Pittsburgh, PA 15224412-682-3117

7555 Saltsburg RoadPittsburgh, PA 15235412-793-9099

Beginning in October, evening hours are available on Tuesdays at the Penn Hills location.

To schedule an appointment at Greater Pittsburgh Medical Associates-UPMC, or for more information, call one of our offices.

The physicians and staff at Greater Pittsburgh Medical Associates-UPMC arepleased to welcome our newest doctor to our offices in Bloomfield and Penn Hills.

Over the past 54 years, Brother�s Brother Foundation has connected over $4 billion in people�s resources with people�s needs across 141 countries. BBF supplies hospitals with vital medication and equipment, supports hand-carried medical mission groups, funds the rebuilding of schools and fi lls them with donated books across the world.

Connecting People�s Resources with People�s Needs

1200 Galveston Ave.Pittsburgh, PA, 15233 Phone: 412-321-3160

http://www.brothersbrother.org

Page 14: NI Penn Hills

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2011 UPMC

For residents of eastern communities

What’s Insidepage 2 When Your Body Talks ...

Be Sure to Listen

page 3 Make a Date With Your DoctorThree Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 4 A Snapshot of UPMC EastOpening Summer 2012

page 6 Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

page 7 Taking on TouretteControlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

BundleUp,BabyRemember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands.

Turn to page 3 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

Page 16: NI Penn Hills

2 UPMC.com/Today

Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection andtreatment of cancer and other serious medical problems

Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can bean excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms.

There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions.

That’s why you should call yourprimary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lastinglonger than two or three weeks,says Edward Chu, MD, chief ofthe Division of Hematology/Oncology at UPMC and deputy director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.

“The vast majority of patientswill get a clean bill of health from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu.“But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”

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

Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalizedbody changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that cancompromise your physical performance and overall well-being.By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll bebetter able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur.They can include:• Extreme tiredness (fatigue)• Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more)

or loss of appetite• Changes in how food tastes• Fever and chills• Night sweats• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

“These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.”

If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area,visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

When Your BodyTalks…BeSure toListen

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

Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you?Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. Cancer specialists at UPMC East say that when combined with regular checkups with your family doctor or a specialist, screenings like mammograms, PAP smears, and colorectal exams haveproven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer. Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age and other considerations will help your physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.

To learn more about the programs and services at UPMC Cancer Center at Oxford Drive in Monroeville, visit UPMCEast.com.

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1-800-533-UPMC 3

Make a Date With Your DoctorYou take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving yourbody the same kind of attention?

When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to thedoctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, andavoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep.

According to primary care physicians(PCPs) with UPMC East, an annualexam is the perfect time to talk aboutillness prevention, healthy lifestylechoices, and any screenings. That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on

making changes to improve your health.

Building an ongoing relationship with a PCP also means peace of mind. PCPs with UPMC East say there’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency.

Your exam checklistHow can you make the most of your annual exam? Here arefour things to do before you see the doctor:

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

2. Update your family historyYour family history can provide important clues about your riskfor certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, andheart disease.

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

4. Make a list of questions or health concernsAsking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care.

One final piece of advice: Be honest. Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something. What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.

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

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

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

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

Source: American Society of Otolaryngology

Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

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4 UPMC.com/Today

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1-800-533-UPMC 5

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If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital.

“UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer forUPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.”

Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.

SmartRoom® technology brings it all to youLaunched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology.

SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerizedsoftware programsgive caregivers fingertip access toall the informationessential to yourcare — from yourelectronic medicalrecords to the tests you’ll need that day.

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

The right medsat the right time“It is our goal to make the hospitalizationand discharge experience asstress-free as possible for ourpatients and theirfamilies,” saysJacqueline Dailey,UPMC’s vicepresident for Solutions forMedical Science, Research, and Patient Centered AccountableCare. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital,they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in theirmedications and how to take them.”

“We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessmentof your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminatedduring your stay, this information is instantly available to allyour physicians — from your family doctor to the specialistscaring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acutecare.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medicationorders from your doctors.

Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”

How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

6 UPMC.com/Today

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1-800-533-UPMC 7

Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing withaction figures alone in his Pitcairn home,when the tics began — involuntary armflicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.

Tom and Amy Barnishin first thoughttheir son’s behavior was linked to the startof the school year and peer pressure.When symptoms grew worse, and othertics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosedwith Tourette syndrome (TS) in January2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.

Diagnosing Tourette syndromeTS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette SyndromeClinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys.

The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throat-clearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include twoor more motor tics and at least one vocaltic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.

Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics.They experience a sensation that makesthem feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says.

The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.

That’s especially difficult for adolescentswho want to fit in. Tics, such as throatclearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain.

At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts:two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.

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

“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven,now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment.

The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support.

“Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, wewere part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom.

To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as theservice, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.

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

Other TS facts include:• TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population.

• People in every walk of life, includingprofessional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS.

• Less than 15 percent of TS patientsswear or use inappropriate expressions.

Did You Know?

Taking on Tourette

An estimated 200,000 Americans haveTS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder.

For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inheritedneurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.

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OPENING SUMMER 2012For more information, visit UPMCEast.com

YOUR WORLD-CLASS HOSPITAL.RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER.

UPMC 600 Oxford DriveMonroeville, PA 15146

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

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

Follow UPMC East on Facebook.

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

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22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Penn Hills

rinity Tower unitedMethodist Church’s websitestate’s “God’s Power throughOur Hands.”

That’s certainly evident in the church’sOutreach Council, which carries outvarious projects, from bagged lunches forthe homeless to purses and toiletries forwomen living in shelters.

This past summer, the church hostedits seventh annual Sock Hop FestivalFundraiser and Car Cruise, whichincluded dance team performances, silentand Chinese auctions, hamburgers, hotdogs, Italian sausage and ice cream floats.The event’s proceeds, which average$2,000 to $3,000, fund the numerousoutreach projects.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the peoplewe help,” said Dawn Himes-Pinner, amember of the church’s outreach councilwho came up with the idea for the sock hop.“The event started as a very small idea, and

it just has grown exponentially every yearsince then. We would not be this successfulif it were not for the many wonderfulbusinesses who donate gift cards, food,reduced prices on supplies. It’s successfulbecause of the people who help support us.”

Initially, Himes-Pinner said the intent ofthe first event was to raise enough money tobuy socks for the homeless. The idea of anold-fashioned sock hop was appealing.“That whole era was very popular,” she said.Some of the church’s musically-talentedteens learned to play music from the 1950s,and the church dance team performeddances from the 1950s, and people who hadclassic cars brought them out,” Himes-Pinner explained.

She credits two young women who wereyouth members at the time with sparkingthe outreach to those in need in thePittsburgh area. Caroline Marra, who justgraduated from Ohio State university andDanielle Allison, now a student at PennState, said they wanted to do something tohelp people, locally. They came up withthe idea of making scarves for thehomeless. Other women in the churchjoined in and eventually 100 scarves weremade with the two girls accompanyingHimes-Pinner to downtown Pittsburgh topass them out. While others may judgethose who find themselves living underbridges or in shelters, she does not. “All Icare about is what I can do to help you,”she said. “It’s very easy to have sympathy,but when you can empathize with someonethat really makes a difference. . . no onehas ever grown up saying, ‘I hope I’mhomeless one day.’”

This year, there were about 32 classiccars at the event, and the outreach hasgrown from providing scarves and socks

for the homeless to providing brown baglunches for patients at Operation Safetynet, an organization started by Dr. Withers,that provides medical care for the homeless.The lunches include a sandwich, fruit cup,cookies, bottle of water and other snacks.“Sometimes, this is the only food they getall day,” said Catharine Drago, a member ofthe church’s outreach council. laverneSembower, another member of theoutreach council, is in charge of puttingtogether the lunches. Every Monday,volunteers drive the lunches to theOperation Safety net office on ForbesAvenue in uptown Pittsburgh near uPMCMercy Hospital. Two other members of theoutreach team are nancy Maffeo andnancy Stevens.

“Another thing that we do is five days aweek we pick up the leftover bread atPanera in Penn Center,” Drago said. “Wehave ten people, husband and wife teams,that take it to a variety of places, soupkitchens, food banks. If somebody doesn’tpick up the bread, they throw it out.”

Members of the church’s outreachcouncil also fill up donated purses withtoiletries and take them to 18 differenthomeless shelters throughout AlleghenyCounty. Many of the shelters are affiliatedwith the Homeless Children’s EducationFund, Drago explained. “The women in allthese shelters have to go to school or beinvolved in a training program,” she said.“They can’t just come to the shelter andstay there forever.” The outreach councilalso purchases new underwear for thoseliving in shelters.

“A lot of what we’re trying to provide are

Trinity TowerUnited Methodist

to Help OthersReaches Out

T

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

The Penn Hills train display at the municipal buildinghas been operating annually during the holiday seasonsince 1984.

It began as a project of Police Helping People Daily, acharitable organization started by Penn Hills PoliceOfficer Domenic Slebich, Jr. The organziation is nowcalled People Helping People Daily. Sadly Slebich, whowas retired, passed away in November.

Volunteers begin putting the train display together inNovember for its opening during Penn Hills Light UpNight, which this year was December 1. The display isopen 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 9p.m. Saturdays and Sundays until January 1.

some of the little things that these places don’t get, things that we takefor granted but that people often go without if we don’t provide them,”said the church’s pastor Dale Reese.

However, the outreach council does not limit itself to localendeavors. In another effort, members collect used neckties, which anorganization on north Carolina’s Outer Banks weaves into things suchas table runners and handbags. The money from the sale of these itemsgoes to homeless shelters on the Outer Banks. Money from the sockhop is used to buy mosquito nets to help prevent malaria in Africa viathe organization, nothing But nets, and it donated money to help thevictims of the earthquake in Japan earlier this year. “Wherever we see aneed we try to help out, whether it’s Penn Hills or another country,”Drago said.

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en Milko, owner and floral designer of Flowers in the Attic, in Penn Hills is continuing his Christmas spirit in the tradition of years past… 13 years to be exact.

The Flowers for Patients Program delivers flowers on Christmas Eve to area nursing homes.The flowers are donated by customers, employees of Flowers in the Attic, friends, and Milkohimself by a simple five or ten dollar donation and a written gift card personalized by the giver.This year 14 nursing homes are on the recipient list.

“Our customers look forward to the program.  We all know someone in a nursing home,”Milko said. “let me tell you why the Flowers for Patients Program has been my heart’s choice forholiday giving.

“It began years ago on a very snowy Christmas Eve.  I was making a rather late delivery to aresident in a nursing home.  The staff asked that I personally deliver the arrangement to theroom.  As I walked down the long and very lonely hall, each and every resident looked at mewith expectant eyes anticipating that he or she might receive the flowering gift.  Thedisappointment in their eyes and the diminishing smile on each face broke my heart.  Afterchecking with staff, I learned that too many of our elderly in nursing homes have no visitors atChristmas or throughout the year.  There and then I promised myself that thereafter everyonein area homes would have a gift on Christmas Eve.  It may not be much to those whose treeoverflows with gifts, but it is a miracle that one flowering gift can light up the room tosomeone who has no one.”

Participation in the Flowers in the Attic Flowers for Patients Program can be made by callingFlowers in the Attic at 412.798.2200 and asking for Donna liberto.

24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Penn Hills

“GOOD NEWS” “Singing gospel songs with traditional, modern, and contemporary stylings, The Pittsburgh Gospel Choir and Ensemble performed

October 22 at Beulah Presbyterian Church’s “The Music on the Hill Concert Series.” Dr. Herbert V.R.P. Jones led the group of 65 members who gave a musical experience that kept the audience enthralled with a

performance of eight songs. The audience was also treated to the talents of “gospel legend” Valetta O’Kelly, who has been singing thegospel for 70 years. The Pittsburgh Gospel Ensemble, a smaller group comprised of members of the mass choir, performed two songs.

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Beulah Presbyterian ChurchIntroduces New Worship Service

“” Beulah Presbyterian Churchintroduced a new contemporaryworship service, named “Revolution,”on Sunday, november 20. Revolutionis a weekly coffeehouse-style worshipservice in a comfortable, family-friendlyenvironment. The service will featureRevolution Praise Band and a children’sarea for the youngest attendees.

Sundays at 5:45 p.m. This service is in addition to the regular Sundaymorning worship at 10:15 a.m.

Beulah Presbyterian Church, 2500 McCrady Road, Churchill

Since the time of the RevolutionaryWar, Beulah Presbyterian Church hasfound innovative ways to glorify Godand to meet the needs of thecommunity. Beginning as a place ofworship for soldiers stationed in the

area in 1758, God has continuallyreshaped Beulah over its long historyto make it relevant and to fit theunique needs of the time. Beulah isevolving again, offering Revolution as anew form of worship.

For more information on this service,contact Beulah Presbyterian Church at412.242.4570 or visitwww.beulahpresby.org.

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St. Bartholomew Parish in Penn Hills held its 61st festivalthis year. The much-beloved and highly-anticipatedcommunity event has taken place in October for the past

four years. Prior to that, the festival was held for the first 56years in the summer, and used to be eight days long, said SisterDorothy Pawlus, parish life coordinator for St. Bartholomew.

“I think it started out as a fundraiser and it’s also acommunity builder,” Pawlus said. The event was changed toOctober because it’s cooler and it doesn’t have to compete withall the other church festivals going on in the summer, she said.

“People like the food because all of our food is homemade,”Pawlus said regarding what makes the festival popular. “I thinkthe rides are a big attraction, and also our basket auction. Wehave some beautiful baskets that we put together.”

But it doesn’t happen with out a lot of assistance. “We get alot of things donated from our parishoners, from thecommunity,” Pawlus said. There are about 50 volunteers each ofthe festival’s three nights, getting the booths ready beforehand,making food, running the kitchen, and working the booths.

26 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Penn Hills

St. Bartholomew’s

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Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

Attend an Open House:

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Saturday, Jan. 14 at 10amThursday, Jan. 19 at 6pm

Saturday, Jan. 21 at 10amWednesday, Jan. 25 at 6pm

200 Penn School DriveVerona, PA 15147

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Imagine SchoolsEqual opportunity for all students.

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n the popular 1990s TV series “The Golden Girls,” Dorothy always had a secret weapon she used to coerce her mother into cooperating with her.

Dorothy would periodically threaten her with the ominous warning, “Shady Pines is getting your room

ready as we speak…” But nowadays, only around 7% ofpeople over age 75 live in nursing homes, according to census figures,and there are more choices than ever for different lifestyles and levelsof care.

There are as many as 20 different types of senior care facilities, andbefore looking at any new living arrangement, it’s important to have abasic idea of what the different levels are to avoid feeling overwhelmedwith choices. The following are some of the most popular livingarrangements for seniors of today.

One favorite for mature adults is the active adult community,sometimes referred to as a retirement community or independent

living. These dwellings are usually homes or condos with individualsliving independently and owning their own home, but in a grouping orhousing plan with other seniors. Many times these communities willoffer a clubhouse and have planned social and cultural activities andlimited transportation. They may also provide housekeeping andcommunal meals for a monthly fee. They are probably best suited toindividuals who are active and able to assume total care for themselves,but desire social interaction with others in their own age group.

Assisted living facilities usually allow individuals to have the privacyof their own apartment or home, while offering daily assistance withbathing and dressing. Some communities may also help withadministering medications. This is an attractive option for manyseniors because residents may be able to bathe and dress themselvesinitially, but as health and mobility decline the help becomes readilyavailable without having to make a change in living arrangements.Communal dining may also be an option for an added fee. Residents

By Pamela Palongue

O L D E R A D U L T S I N P E N N H I L L S

Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your livingarrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing

this major life change can be a formidable one. Most experts agree that itis best to broach the subject earlier rather than later.

28 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Penn Hills

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rent their apartment or home and may pay one ‘all inclusive’ fee for services or maybe charged ‘a la carte’ for each additional service needed. This is a good choice forany mature adult who is currently ambulatory, but who may have concerns aboutfuture mobility problems or perhaps has the beginning of mobility issues.

Another increasingly popular option for mature adults is home health carewhich allows individuals to remain in their homes while receiving professionalassistance with bathing, dressing and meal preparation. The care may also extendto medical needs such as the administration of medications and the ongoingmanagement of blood pressure or diabetes. Medicare and Medicaid may providefinancial assistance in some cases, but there are several eligibility requirementswhich must be met. This is a particularly good option for individuals who areemotionally attached to their residence and do not have a strong need for socialinteraction with other seniors.

Rehabilitation facilities are primarily a temporary option for those recuperatingfrom injury or illness. Rehab helps the individual recover and provides adaptivetechniques for preparing the patient to return to independent living. While theperson may not function at the previous level, the goal of rehab is to enhance thepatient’s quality of life by improving mobility, speech and self-care.

Though people seldom look forward to going to a nursing facility, skillednursing homes provide 24-hour care for individuals with serious illness, injury ormental decline. The good news is that there have been several improvements in thequality of care received in nursing facilities since the Omnibus BudgetReconciliation Act of 1987. nurse aides now have more training, and each residentmust be fully evaluated upon admission so that an individual care plan can beestablished. Meals are planned by a dietician to ensure proper nutrition, and manynursing facilities now include regular exercise as a part of their managed care forresidents.

Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements orthe child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can bea formidable one. Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlierrather than later. Try to discuss the different options with aging parents and findout which ones appeal to them. Certain conditions such as serious dementia mayprevent a meaningful discussion of these topics later. By talking about the choicesnow, your loved one can weigh in on the decision and help you decide based onpersonal preferences. The topic is also easier to discuss when it seems a long wayoff, rather than inevitable in the near future. The older person will also have moretime to make decisions, rather than hastily settling on a new home.

When beginning the discussion, always reassure your loved one that you wanthim/her to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. Ask questionsrather than offering advice. This will help your parent to feel more in control of theconversation.

Try not to force any decisions with only one discussion. Give your loved one achance to digest the idea and to form some thoughts on the subject. Suggest thepossibility of a visit to an independent or assisted living community. Many parentswho are initially reluctant to even discuss moving become excited about theprospect of making a change when they are able to see firsthand the positive socialaspects and activities offered at assisted living facilities.

Finally, enlist the help of one of your parent’s friends already in independent orassisted living as an advocate. Oftentimes parents may feel that their children are“ganging up” on them if they are confronted by several siblings telling them whatthey should do. However, an individual in their own age group who has made theadjustment and is happy is the best advocate.

Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

on finding a home for your loved one,you may want to consult

www.aplaceformom.com, a free eldercare referral service. For more tipsabout speaking with your parents orservices available for your loved one,

visit the Area Agency on Aging website atwww.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa.aspx.

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For as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember theyhave sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard.

This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculateapproximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check toyour local earned income tax collector in your communitymunicipal building.

But in 2012, every Penn Hills Township taxpayer can crossone more chore off their to-do list thanks to a new state mandate.

Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in thecommonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold allearned income taxes from every employee. And all employeeshave to do is make sure they have filled out a residencycertification form.

“The legislation affects every single municipality and schooldistrict in Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoffman, local governmentpolicy manager at the state Department of Community andEconomic Development.

“That in itself is huge. In addition, it also affects every single taxpayer and every single business that operates inPennsylvania.”

Earned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania

since 1965.At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow local

entities such as school districts and municipalities to raisemore funds.

“It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a taxto help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposed onpeople who actually had earned income, not those who wereretired or were not working,” says Hoffman.

Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania. neighboringstates have similar structures in place, but they are not identical.

In theory, the tax is simple.Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1 percent

tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs and schooldistricts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower.

And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the taxfrom an employee’s pay or the employees themselves couldcalculate their tax and send it to their local earned income taxcollector.

But from the start, issues arose.Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local

municipalities in the country, and at one point, there were up to560 different earned income tax offices in the state, says Hoffman.

“It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was noconsistency in collections, no consistency in annual returns and noconsistency in transfer of records from one tax collector to another.”

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to a Senior Program

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Confusion about where to send taxes also abounded for companiesthat are headquartered out of state but have a plethora of work sitesand thousands of employees in Pennsylvania.

“Many of these companies did withhold the tax, but with so manydifferent collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all theexpectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure also was notattractive to new business endeavors as it created one more regulationinterested companies had to comply with when they opened a site inPennsylvania.

Within decades, people started to question the structure used tocollect earned income tax.

By 2002, various organizations sought change and restructuring.

Their pleas were supported by a study commissioned by thePennsylvania Economy league among other entities.

The study found that millions of dollars across the state were notbeing accounted for correctly and millions of potential tax dollars werenot being collected at all. The actual amount always remaineduncertain, says Hoffman.

“I talk to employers every day who have had work sites inPennsylvania for years and have never collected the tax. We are notjust dealing with Pennsylvania businesses though, this hits businessesacross north America.”

Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act32 and its effects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities andschool districts three years to implement its regulations.

under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted fromemployees to their employers.

Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employeefill out a one-page local earned income tax residency certification formby year’s end.

On the form, employees list their address, municipality and countyof residence. This information matches to a municipality specific codeensuring the tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at thecorrect tax collector.

Throughout Pennsylvania, except in Allegheny County, earnedincome tax collector positions were eliminated or altered as taxes willgo to a county level tax collector chosen by a tax collection districtmade up of representatives from every municipality and school districtin the specific county.

In Allegheny County, four collection districts were chosen to betterserve the area’s unique demographics, says Hoffman.

“The four collection districts are separated by the rivers. AlleghenyCounty is different than anywhere else in the state due to its diversepopulations and number of corporations.”

In addition to the

more centralizedstructure, the law hasother oversight andaccountability features.

There are explicit time framesset out for the distribution of dollars aswell as training and certification for all taxofficers. There also are penalties for latepayments and annual auditing, says Hoffman.

“All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies beingcollected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributedproperly.”

Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state.“Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some

had none at all. now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvaniaand all the tax collectors are required to use it. We now haveconsistency.”

Penn Hills Township Manager Mohammed Rayan expects thepositive outcomes predicted to come to fruition in time.

“If all goes well, we are hoping more revenue will be generated.Changes are always hard, but we are hoping the end result is in ourfavor.”

The township expects to collect approximately $8.5 million inearned income taxes in 2011.

A main change is getting used to larger, lump sum deposits intheir accounts from Keystone Collections Group, AlleghenyCounty’s southeast region tax collector, as opposed to almost dailysmaller deposits.

“This is something new for us. For years and years, we have had ourown collectors. now we have to share one collector. We will see how itis going to go.

“In the future, we can’t predict what will happen, but we hope itwill get better.”

Penn Hills Township has a specific code to ensure all earned

income taxes go to the right municipality.

720501

Explained

Penn Hills | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Page 34: NI Penn Hills

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