in-mckeesport-summer

SUMMER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

ALSO INSIDE:Real Estate in McKeesportPlus:Milton L. Lebowitz Bridge Dedication

LincolnWayreconfiguration to bring easier traffic flow

I ntroducing a heal th pl an option f or smal l business designed to sav e green.

E nj oy a discount and the ease of 2 4 / 7 on- l ine access f or al l of y our heal th pl an needs. H as thereev er been an easier business decision? A t U P M C H eal th P l an, w e w ant to mak e it that simpl e. T hat’ s w hy w e’ v e introduced the region’ s most comprehensiv e al l - el ectronic option. I t’ s cal l edand it’ s an easy - to- use, paperl ess option that compl ements any of our S mal l B usiness A dv antageheal th pl ans. W ith , al l enrol l ment, bil l ing, cl aims, and pay ments are conducted onl ine – prov idingy ou and y our empl oy ees w ith greater conv enience. Y our empl oy ees al so enj oy easy access to al l theirheal th inf ormation, w el l ness tool s, and heal th support. A nd, as al w ay s, y ou and y our empl oy ees hav e access to our netw ork of more than 8 0 hospital s and 7 , 0 0 0 phy sicians, and the aw ard- w inningmember serv ice y ou ex pect f rom U P M C H eal th P l an. I n other w ords y ou get more f or l ess. T o l earn more about how y ou can sav e, go to upmchealthplan.com.

asy to use, conomical and

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Page 1

This managed care plan may not cover all your health care expenses. Read your contract carefully to determine which health care services are covered. If you have questions, call Member Services at 1-888-876-2756.

Shouldn’t the people who insure your health understand it?

IN McKeesport | Summer 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

, al l enrol l ment, bil l ing, cl aims, and pay ments are conducted onl ine – prov idingy

on the coverFrom left to right: Michele Gessner, Secretaryof WOLDC, Sean Logan, Pennsylvania StateSenator, Al Lebedda, Vice President ofWOLDC, and Wayne Washowich, ExecutiveDirector of WOLDC.

community interest

Lebowitz Bridge Dedication ...........................................3

Lincoln Way Reconfiguration ..........................................6

Great Allegheny Passage Trail Completed ....................12

McKeesport River Rescue Adds Boat/Training .............14

Taking Flight over Western Pennsylvania......................16

business spotlight

Long Run Children’s Center .................................................4

featu

res

9 OPEN YOUR HEART TO A SENIOR

19 McKEESPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT

21 UPMC TODAY

40 REAL ESTATE IN McKEESPORT

34

12S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 Play It Safe This Summer

page 3 What You Don’t Do Can Mean a Healthier You

WorldmClass Ear, Nose, and Throat Care Close to Home

page 4 Heads Up on Helmet Safety

Be Sun Smart This Summer

page 5 Digital Mammography Saves Lives

page 6 The Freedom of Independent Living

page 7 Care You Can Trust — Whenever You Need It

Hot Tips for aCool Summer:

Stay safe and healthy with the simple Don’t Do’s on page 3.



F or residents of eastern communities

21

2 IN McKeesport

Welcome to the summer issue of IN McKeesport. I hope this magazine reaches your mailbox on a clear, warm day. Why?Because the stories we feature here highlight people doing thingsin your community. They didn’t need good weather to get outand do something that makes a difference. But if you’re like me,having a clear sky is a definite motivator. Being outside, hearingbirds chirping, smelling that fr eshly cut grass and having a niceglass of lemonade gives me the fortification to go above andbeyond. We should all aim to do one thing this summer – even if it’s on a rainy day – to benefit those around us or ourcommunity as a whole. Not only will you get a great sense of satisfaction for yourself, you will make a difference in someone’slife. I’d like to hear about what you did to make a differenc e thissummer – E-mail our managing editor, Marybeth Jeffries [email protected] with the information of what you did to make a difference. Who knows? You may justend up in the pages of the next IN McKeesport magazine, andread about yourself over a nice glass of lemonade. Have a greatsummer IN McKeesport.

Wayne DollardPublisher

Summer! I didn’t think it would ever get here. Now that I am able to get out my gardening tools and get busy “out there” it seems to me that many of you are doing the same thing.Getting out there I mean. In this issue you will get to readabout the Open Your Heart to a Senior Program which helps seniors in the community get much needed help with household chores and rides to their appointments. Did youknow that the Pittsburgh area has one the largest populationsof seniors living in our communities? Programs like Open Your Heart to a Senior are much needed and deserved to be recognized for their efforts! We also want to make sure that you know we want to recognize all of the men and women who are serving in our country’s military. If you have a familymember from the community who is serving, please send ustheir photo and where they are so that we can honor them! We are very blessed at IN McKeesport Magazine to be able tohave the opportunity to share such wonderful stories with you,our readers. I hope you will keep us in mind when you run in tosomeone who is worthy of recognition. You can write to me atthe magazine, [email protected]!!

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

IN McKeesport Area is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing, encouragingand promoting the McKeesport Area School Districtand its comprising municipalities by focusing on thetalents and gifts of the people who live and work here.

Our goal is to provide readers with the mostinformative and professional regional publication in

the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Mark Berton [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

WRITERS

Jonathan BarnesKaren FerrieriKelli McElhinnyPamela PalongueSandy TrozzoChris Weber

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie BrkichSusie DoakJoe Milne

Tamara Tylenda

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.comOne Way Street Productions

WEB DEVELOPMENT

DS Multimedia

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell Linda MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers

Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel NegriLiz Dodson Annette PetroneTina Dollard Tara ReisRose Estes Vincent Sabatini

Jason Huffman Michael SilvertJesse Jones RJ VighettiBrian McKee Jason ZakisDavid Mitchell

IN McKeesport Area, is carrier route mailed to all districthouseholds and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCEAll inquiries, comments and press releases

should be directed to:IN Community Magazines

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

www.incommunitymagazines.com

Summer 2010

Community leaders, friends and family from throughout the region gathered this past April 30 to honor the memory of the late White Oak Mayor Milton L. Lebowitz at the dedication of the Milton L. Lebowitz Memorial Bridge.

Mayor Lebowitz was one of White Oak’s mostpassionate and influential citizens with more than 40 years of service as an elected official, volunteer,business owner, husband and father. A Korean Warveteran, he joined the White Oak Recreation Boardin the early 1970s and went on to serve on the White Oak Borough Council. He became the Mayor in 1998, serving until his death in 2003.The bridge dedicated to the former mayor

crosses Jack’s Run Stream at the intersection of State Route 48 and McClintock Road. Built in 2008, the new bridge carries nearly 2,000 vehicles a day and will improve traffic safety by widening the highway crossing the bridge.The dedication ceremony brought together three generations

of the late Mayor’s family as well as local leaders to recount theirpersonal stories of Mayor Lebowitz’s positive impact on the lives he touched. Led by State Representative Marc Gergely, those speaking also included White Oak District Justice Tom Miller, White Oak Police Chief Joe Hoffman, State Senator Sean Logan, State Representative David Levdansky, former County Coroner Dr. Cyril Wecht, Judge David Wecht, former State Treasurer Barbara Hafer, PennDOT Executive Director Daniel Cessna, County Council member Bob Macey, and White Oak BoroughManager Jack Petro.

Representative Gergely guided the legislation through Harrisburg to officially designate the bridge as the Milton L. Lebowitz Memorial Bridge. “The people of White Oak now have a lasting memorial to a man

who devoted nearly 40 years of his life to improving his community and the well-being of those around him,” stated Gergely. “The Milton L. Lebowitz Memorial Bridge will continue to remind us of his contributions to White Oak and his legacy.”“My children and I are honored that Milton has a permanent

tribute in the community he loved,” said Joyce Lebowitz, the Mayor’s widow. “I have been touched by the strong support from the community for this memorial.” Lebowitz was active in the Gemilas Chesed Synagogue and

Tree of Life Synagogue and was a member of the General Smedley D.Butler American Legion Post 701 of White Oak, the Aliquippa ElksLodge, F&A Masons and Syria Temple of the Shrine of Cheswick. He was owner and founder of Green Valley Cleaners and The JosephKrow Company. He was married to his wife Joyce for 50 years and they have three children Kim, Todd and Devorah. For more information on the Lebowitz Bridge dedication and

the Mayor’s legacy, contact Representative Gergely’s office at412.664.0035 or [email protected]

Milton L. Lebowitz

Pictured below: Representative Gergely at dedication with Joyce Lebowitz.Photo: Jennifer R. Vertullo/The Daily News.


4 724.942.0940 to advertise | IN McKeesport

For more than 48 years, Long Run Children’s Learning Center has been educating the McKeesport area’s pre-Kindergarten youth, and Executive Director Tom Smith said that that dedication to excellence in education will be continuing for the 2010-11 school year.“We’re going to be starting the year with a staff

of 25 teachers,” Smith said. “And we offer year-roundprograms and services ranging from one-day, topical presentations to five-day-a-week programs.We’ve been doing this for years and we know how to do it right.”Part of Long Run’s success is due to its small

class sizes. No class has more than 17 students in it. Each of those classes has one certified teacherand two assistants to ensure that students get one-on-one access to their instructors. Some classes are even smaller – the Bridge to Kindergartenclass has just 12 students in each class section with one teacher and one assistant.“There’s a lot of room for individualized programming,”

Smith said.All of this instruction takes place in a rural setting in a

building that was designed for the purpose it serves.“Almost all of your early learning centers are housed in some

kind of converted building - a school room or a church,” Smith said.“Our building was built to be what it is. Each classroom has its ownentrance to a large, beautiful playground and lots of opportunitiesfor outdoor activities. It was designed from the ground up to be apreschool center.”Within the building, Long Run offers students well-equipped,

state-of-the-art computers connected to a Wi-Fi network. Smith said that for young children, getting started early on computers is arecommendation in all of the national standards. Their interactionswith computers at that age is more social, than work-driven.

“We try to keep it a social activity, working on a game at the same time,” he said. “We offer it, but minimize it because most can

do that at home on their family computers. With us,they have opportunities to do other things.”Smith said that some of those things coming up

this year include continuing the Pre-K Counts partnership with the MASD; adding an extended-hourspreschool program at the Center; offering full-day childcare services with the traditional Long Run level of quality; creating an after-school class for children ingrades K-2; identifying and developing productive partnerships with other community agencies that

serve young children and their families and securing the funds necessary to support the Center through thistransition phase.Long Run will still be offering basic early childhood

programs: half-day preschool classes for three- and four-year olds, and the popular Bridge to Kindergarten

classes for children who will be entering Kindergarten in the fall.The Center was re-accredited by the National Association for theEducation of Young Children (NAEYC) last year and carries a rating of four Keystone STARS. The school also holds a child careCertificate of Compliance from the PA Dept. of Public Welfare, andis licensed by the PA Board of Private Academic Schools.Anyone interested in finding out more about Long Run’s

programming or dedication to excellence can contact them at: Long Run Children’s Learning Center, 1109 Long Run Road,McKeesport, PA 15132 or by calling 412.751.9022. They are alsoonline at [email protected] and www.longrunclc.org.

Long Run Children’s Learning Center1109 Long Run RoadMcKeesport, PA [email protected]

Long Run Children’s Learning Center –Nearly Half a Century of Excellence


SR 2031 Section A02 - Lincoln Way

SPECIAL REPORT

The $10 million project is the culmination of years of volunteereffort by residents and officials who lobbied various state agencies to find funds to make the project reality. The work willinclude road reconstruction, the installation of turning lanes andthe erection of signal lights at various intersections along athree-mile stretch of Lincoln Way. The project also will includework to widen Lincoln Way from State Street to Route 48. Thenewly rebuilt stretch of road is intended to serve as a sort ofwelcoming area for motorists accessing the borough’s entranceto Allegheny County, with new street signs and newly plantedtrees bringing a fresh look to the streetscape.Lincoln Way is White Oak’s main traffic artery, with 22,000

vehicles using it each day. The road is the access point for thousands of commuters entering Allegheny County from NorthHuntington Township and other nearby communities. The LincolnWay improvements are meant to help develop and support newand existing businesses in the area, as well as make the areamore accessible to pedestrians and motorists. Ultimately, WhiteOak Local Development Corp. volunteers would like to use theproject as the foundation for redevelopment of other areas of the borough that are in need of development.Construction work on the Lincoln Way project will begin in

the summer of 2011 and be completed over three constructionseasons, said Wayne Washowich, president of White Oak LocalDevelopment Corp., which led the road reconfiguration effort.The contract for the work is ready, but a contractor has not yetbeen selected.Washowich founded White Oak Local Development

Corporation in 1999, when as a member of council he, along with his fellow council members, recognized the need forchanges in the road that would help improve safety and bringbetter access to local businesses. WOLDC started at the time as a citizen’s advisory board and later was incorporated. Thevolunteer group is comprised of community leaders, businessowners, elected officials and community activists interested in local development.The first goal of the group was to get its planned road

reconfiguration/commercial revitalization project on theSouthwestern Pennsylvania Commission’s 12-yearTransportation Improvement Program, which WOLDC was able to accomplish shortly after its formation. The group alsoreceived a Community Development Block Grant from theAllegheny County Department of Economic Development for the commercial revitalization project. A large portion of the $10 million in required funding was received through federaltransportation dollars. The revitalization project will include the construction of sidewalks and crosswalks, installation ofdecorative lighting, benches and trash cans, creation of greenspaces along the road and other pedestrian-friendly amenities.When the project is completed, the overall look and feel ofWhite Oak’s business district should be changed for the betterand be noticeable to everyone, Washowich said. It’s about time,after a decade of hard work.

LincolnWayreconfiguration to bring easier traffic flowBy Jonathan Barnes

6 IN McKeesport

WHITE OAK CHAMBER l SPECIAL REPORT

It has been a decade in the making and the

source of a lot of scratching of heads by

planners, but in the near future, residents

and motorists who travel through White Oak

will be enjoying a new look to traffic flow

along Lincoln Way through the borough’s

commercial district. The planned revised

road configuration will allow visitors to

access stores and stop to chat with their

favorite local merchants while also passing

through the borough more safely.

LincolnWayreconfiguration to bring easier traffic flowBy Jonathan Barnes


“This is the heart of the community. Not only will the construction make the road much safer, the [improved] aesthetics of the area will make it a much more pleasant andmore attractive place to visit,” Washowich said.The Lincoln Way road project has been in the design phase

for the past year. Hanson Design Group, The Eads Group andMcCormick and Taylor have been helpful in the designing of the project, which has required the cooperation of various government agencies and utility companies to make it happen. Recently, telephone poles were moved in the project area

in preparation for the work. The physical improvement wasnoticed by many people and is building anticipation in the community for the long-planned road work, volunteers said.Moving the telephone poles for the project was a major hurdle that had to be overcome to make way for the road reconfiguration.“It’s amazing. When I started working on this project,

everyone told me it would never happen. I was able to build a consensus with this community advisory board… We persevered and stuck together and made it happen. I’m very proud of that and of those people who helped so much with this,” Washowich said. Washowich credited the many volunteers involved in

the effort with being the heart of the action. Many attendedmeetings and stayed involved over the years to make the projecta reality that their kids and grandkids will enjoy. MichelleGessner, special projects coordinator for White Oak boroughand secretary of White Oak Local Development Corp., said shecannot wait to see the project when it is done. “It will make a tremendous difference,” Gessner said. “It’s

going to be a lot nicer and a lot safer.”The work to get the project up and running was not without

its rewards. What was especially appealing about the process of getting the project going was the way so many differentgroups worked together, Gessner noted. “The way folks worked together was amazing—government

agencies and utility companies, gas, electric and sewage companies,” Gessner said, adding that the community cametogether for the project. “It was easy to sell [the idea of the project] to local business owners. More than 90 of them agreed on the road design.”Gessner envisions the look of the Lincoln Way area after

completion of the project as a clean and aesthetically pleasingspot. “We’ll get rid of that free-for-all into the asphalt jungle. Itwill definitely have more of a village feel,” she said.White Oak Local Development Corp. board member Bill Plumb

agreed, noting that the most obvious changes realized by theproject will be a more efficient routing of traffic through the borough. A safer and more efficient way through the boroughshould appeal to anyone who travels the area.“The project will provide much more safety, partly due to the

creation of turning lanes. After the construction work is done, itwill be a lot easier for people to stop and shop. Right now, ourtraffic is very heavy in White Oak,” Plumb said.

Current Conditions

Proposed Improvements

8 IN McKeesport

It Pays to Join the Chamber

Networking

Discounts

Group Purchasing

Local Advocacy

Insurance Discounts

Community Events

Business Workshops

Helping Business Save Money

Affecting LegislativeDecision-Making

Image Building

Your Local Small Business NeedsDo you miss the time when you could go into a business and theowners knew your name, gave you friendly service and excellentvalue? Did you know those days are still alive in White Oak where local business always puts, you, the customer first?

Besides, small businesses are vital to the economy of our community and our nation. Many of your friends and neighborsrely on local small businesses for their livelihood. For every $100 spent in locally owned small business, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. Spend it in a national chain and only $43 stays here.

Best, when you purchase products made, designed or constructed by your friends and neighbors, you can be assured of high quality.

RCA201 Lysle Blvd.McKeesport, PA 15132412.678.2450


hen Mary Allshouse needs a ride to the store or elsewhere, she’s got a group of helping hands at her service, thanks to a new initiative geared toward keeping seniors living in their homes as long as they are able.

Allshouse, 90, had a nice outing recently with Dee, one of the Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteers. She tookAllshouse shopping and Allshouse returned the favor,buying lunch for the two of them. “It was very enjoyable,” said Allshouse. “The volunteers

are very lovely people, very enjoyable.”The program is made possible through funding from

the United Way of Allegheny County. The necessity ofthe initiative was determined through a study by theUniversity of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Healthwhich was funded by the United Way of Allegheny County.For several years, Family Services has had outreach

programs geared toward helping seniors in their homes.From the University of Pittsburgh study, the United Wayidentified the care of frail, home-bound seniors as one ofthe most serious issues in the region. The United Wayalso learned that Family Services’ programs werestruggling to get enough volunteers to help seniors.The initiative is designed to help recruit more volunteers

and to let the community know there are seniors who needa ride to the grocery store or to the doctor’s office, or avisit or a friendly call.Those interested in volunteering to help a senior in

need are welcome to join the effort. They help by providingtransportation for seniors to medical appointments, pharmacyvisits, yard work or simply helping them with correspondenceor bills. For more information on the Open Your Heart to a Senior

program, call 412.307.0071 or toll-free 866.467.0888.

OpenYour Heart to a Senior W

The idea is to let the community know there are seniors who

need a ride to the grocery store or to the doctor’s

office, or a visit or a friendly call.

By Jonathan Barnes

2200 Pleasant Dr.,White Oak This 2 story, 3 BR, 1.5Ba has everythingincluding pool, lg.den, nice breakfastnook, updated bath,fireplace and patioleading to lovely yard.$ 134,900MLS #814372

1520 California Ave.,White Oak Unique style 5 BR, 3.5 Ba 2 story home w/ space galore. Newwindows, interior &exterior doors, roof,dirveway, furnace, A/C,Kitchen, hardwoodfloors and much more!$ 199,900MLS #820258

818 Everglade Dr., Elizabeth TownshipIf you are looking for a sprawling 3 BR, 2 Bahome w/ a lg. rooms,screened in patio,mahogany wood, levellot, over 2550 sq. ft. living space - then lookno further. This lovelyhome is for you. $ 197,000MLS #821696

Contact:Milo Hindman412-780-1150

Contact:Phyllis Spiegel412-609-4666

Contact:Shirley McNamara412-401-6437

Howard Hanna Wilson Baum Real Estate314 Long Run RoadMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412-751-2200 ext 120Fax: 412-751-2207

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT!Please submit your information, including a phone number

and e-mail information to:[email protected]

or call 724.942.0940

The advent of summer is always a very active timein the City of McKeesport. This year, 2010, hasbeen extraordinarily busy. The McKee’s PointMarina (see feature article enclosed) continuesto be a recreational destination point for boatersand other water enthusiasts. The completion ofthe Rails to Trails (Allegheny Passage) trail headin McKeesport links this interstate hiking and biking venue with our marina. Tangential to themarina is McKee’s Café. It is located on the first floor ofthe Palisades and has already been host to bikers from 36 states and six European countries, i.e. Ireland, Germany, United Kingdom, Canada, Thailand and Mexico. Additionally, in July, City Council awarded a bid to Harbor Guard Boats, Inc., to acquire a river rescue boat which also will be housed at the marina. It will provide both fire protection as well as river rescuecapabilities in the Monongahela pool, commencing at theBraddock Dam and continuing to Elizabeth, including theYoughiogheny River.Allegheny County, in conjunction with PennDOT, awarded

the Flyover Ramp to the Industrial Center of McKeesport atCoursin to Lysle Boulevard to Mosites Contracting. Mobilizationis scheduled to commence August 1st, and completion is expected by the fall of 2011. West 5th Avenue is currently beingreconstructed and will be completed by the fall of 2010 – includingthe roadway to the Mansfield Bridge Ramp approach. 5th Avenue,from Market Street to Hucy Street, is also undergoing a $1.3million face lift. It is hoped that this project, complete withstreetscape amenities – decorative lighting, benches, planters etc., will be completed by the Christmas Parade. If that is notenough, 12 local city streets are also being paved, 10 of which were milled. It is truly a busy summer here in McKeesport.

Finally, on the 17th of June, the Pennsylvania State Mayor’s Association announced Mayor of theYear award. I am flattered and humbly proud toannounce that the City of McKeesport was recognized for this prestigious honor. In acceptingthis reward I would be remiss, as evidenced by the précis of aforementioned projects, if I did notrecognize this award really represents the aggregateeffort on the parts of those department heads and

employees that work with me here in the City ofMcKeesport. Police Chief Brian (B.J.) Washowich who

spearheads a multi-faceted law enforcement force; Fire ChiefKevin Lust who oversees our Fire Department; Jim Brown who manages our Allegheny Regional asset District fundsover $600,000 per year for Renziehausen Park; CommunityDevelopment Director Bethany Bauer who is responsible for not only our Community Development program, but also our grant process; Solicitor JasonElash; and especially NickShermenti who coordinates the public works department which is responsible for not only day to day maintenance, as well as, helping implement new initiatives like the Marshal Drive Extension. All have made my job easier and McKeesport a very special place to live.

Have a wonderful summer!

MAYOR’S CORNER


MAYOR’S CORNER

Volunteer now.

SHE BROKETHE GLASSCEILINGBEFORE ANYONE EVER

CALLED IT THAT.NOW SHE JUST NEEDSA CONVERSATION.

An initiative of United Way of Allegheny County

in cooperation with Family Services of Western

Pennsylvania and North Hills

Community Outreach

Thousands of seniors are trying hard to remain independent. But they need our help. A friendly visit. A ride to a doctor’s office. Even simple help with grocery shopping.

Please join us. Volunteers are needed in every neighborhood, from as little as an hour a month to routine weekly visits. Learn more at 412-307-0071 or www.openyourhearttoasenior.org.

©

©

412.672.9631

WHITE OAKLINCOLN WAY AT ROUTE

AT OUR NEWLY EXPANDEDPENDANTS, EARRINGS AND BRJEWELRY INCLUDING CHARMSDISCOVER THE UNIVERSE OF P

E 48

STORERACELETS S, RINGS, PANDORA





Municipal Directory

McKEESPORT

500 5th AvenueMcKeesport, PA 15312Phone: 412.675.5020www.mckeesport.org

City Council Members:

Regis T. McLaughlin, PresidentMichael E. Cherepko, Vice President

Richard DellapennaLoretta M. DiggsDarryl Segina

Alfred J. Tedesco, Jr.V. Fawn Walker

PoliceNon Emergency Phone: 412.675.5050

Fire DepartmentMcKeesport Fire Fighters

P.O. Box 15134412.675.5021 or 412.675.5070

McKeesport Ambulance Rescue Service (MARS)

Edwin Coulter, Chairman, McKeesportAmbulance Authority & Emergency

Management CoordinatorEmergency Phone: 911

Non Emergency Phone: 412.675.5076

WHITE OAK

White Oak BoroughBorough Building2280 Lincoln Way

White Oak, PA 15131

Phone: 412.672.9727Fax: 412.672.0760www.woboro.com

Mayor Ina Jean Marton

Phone: 412.672.9727 ext: 257

PoliceNon emergency phone: 412.672.9727

Fire DepartmentsRainbow Volunteer Fire Company

2916 Jacks Run RoadWhite Oak, PA 15131

412.664.9523

White Oak No.1 Fire Company1130 California Ave.White Oak, PA 1513

412.664.4822


Trail Segment Completes Great Allegheny Passage in McKeesportBy Jonathan Barnes

At the recent dedication of the final segment of trail inMcKeesport’s section of the Great Allegheny Passage, MayorJames Brewster’s voice broke a little bit as he described the passion of one of his predecessors, the late former Mayor Joe Bendel. Years ago, then-mayor of McKeesport Joe Bendel had a

vision of McKeesport’s waterfront as a lively place, a focal point for entertainment and a hub of activity, Brewster said. Through the work of Bendel and others, that focal point was created in the Marina at McKees Point and the nearby Palisades multi-userecreational and banquet facility. The section of the walking and biking trail, from the 15th Street

Bridge to the confluence of the Monongahela and Youghioghenyrivers, will formally connect the section of the Great AlleghenyPassage trail. McKeesport city administrator Dennis Pittman noted that

more than a dozen years ago, local leaders wanted to make theMon Valley a destination point. Former Mayor Joe Bendel pushedthe concept and Mayor Brewster drove toward that goal, Pittmansaid, standing outside the city-owned McKees Café, on the lowerlevel of the Palisades building.“I’ve been blessed to work for a man who took others’ vision

and made it a reality,” Pittman said. Last year, another section of the trail by the Marina was

constructed, and improvements to the park area there also havebeen done in recent years. The Marina itself has been upgraded inrecent years and currently has every available slip filled by localrecreational boaters.The 1.7-mile section of trail dedicated by local and state

officials will be constructed by Lane Construction of Bridgeville. The work will mainly consist of excavating the existing trail andreplacing it with a new base and asphalt.The $416,000 project was bid in August to Lane Construction.

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation officials handled the bidding process for the project because it is a PennDOT Trailsproject. One obstacle was a granting of a right-of-way from CampHill Corp., which is a riverside steel tube fabricator in McKeesport.Workers have been clearing the area of vegetation and refuse

to make way for the 10-foot-wide trail. After excavating for the trail,workers will install a foundation that will be topped with asphalt.Brewster talked about how, as a banking executive years ago,

he was about to leave the airport to head back home from a busi-ness trip. “This tall, lanky guy hitched a ride with me from the airport,”

Brewster said of Bendel. “He talked me into running for council.”Joe Bendel had the idea to put the marina down here, then put

the trail beside it and have the city buy the Palisades, Brewstersaid. At the time, the Palisades was a former roller rink/dance hall.

Bendel taught Brewster that to do his job right, the mayor wouldhave to have vision and a plan for the future, he said.“Thousands of people will come through our city because of this

[trail and marina],” Brewster said. “It’s not unusual to come downhere at night and meet a biker and have him tell you he’s fromanother state.”The mayor also complimented the people of the city who were

gathered for the festive event, which was followed by drinks andcake outside the café. “McKeesport is resilient for one reason:You’re tough people. You’re committed people… If we sell our town,McKeesport will be 50,000 [people] strong some day.”Part of how the city is selling itself is by improving itself, by

“dressing up” and looking good for companies and residents thatare considering locating there. “You want to go to a dance, you dress up. That’s how you get a

date,” Brewster said. “We’ve got an image issue, like a lot of towns.But we’re going to fix that image.”Regional Trail Corporation’s Jack Paulik explained the lengthy

process of getting the trail completed, noting that there were about20 meetings between officials of McKeesport, Port Vue, and LibertyBorough to get things in place.“The leadership in those municipalities gets it,” Paulik said. I

challenge you to look at McKeesport from the Riverton Bridge; it’s absolutely gorgeous.”Regional Trail Corporation’s Hannah Hardy said her group

is excited to be nearing completion of the Great Allegheny Passage.“I’d like to thank Mayor Brewster for his dedication in completingit… We’re seeing a huge economic impact in the Great AlleghenyPassage,” Hardy said.Jack and Marce Schultz, of Pittsburgh, stood by their bicycles,

just off the trail by the Marina, listening to the comments of the localleaders. The couple are very familiar with the trail and actuallycame for the dedication, Marce said. “It was frustrating for us tonot be able to ride directly past here… Any little piece [of trail] that gets completed is a win for us.”


With hundreds of boaters docking their crafts at McKeesport’s popular Marina atMcKees Point, recreational traffic on theMonongahela and Youghiogheny rivers aroundthe city has increased. Commercial traffic on the rivers, including many industry vessels, also has sped up in recent years, said RayDougherty, manager of the Marina.Back when he took over as manager of the

city-owned marina four years ago, Doughertyhad just 60 boats docked at the marina. Nownearly every slip is full, with 180 boats docked at the downtown marina. The change is theresult of decisions made under Dougherty’s leadership, in coordination with a mayoraladministration that is intent on working to make McKeesport a destination spot for thosewithin and outside the Mon Valley.To bring in more recreational boaters, the city

began by lowering the lease rates for the boatslips in the marina, then added entertainment to make the place more of a must-be spot forboaters. The changes were made in response to asurvey of the boaters, which revealed that theywere looking for entertainment at the Marina atMcKees Point, Dougherty said.“They were looking for destinations… Now

we have them, including summer concerts andthe café,” Dougherty said, referring to the nowcity-owned McKees Café, in the lower level ofthe Palisades Building, across the parking lotfrom the marina.The café had struggled under a succession

of private owners who had trouble making theplace profitable. A year ago the city took over thecafé, bringing stability to the restaurant that wasneeded to make it a solid destination spot.

To encourage boaters, as well as hikers and bikers along the Great Allegheny Passage trail,which runs alongside the Marina, city officialsdecided to open up use of showers in thePalisades building to boaters and weary travelers for a small fee. Clearly, the strategy is working. One wall

of the café is filled with penned messages from travelers along the trail, such as residentsfrom Germany, Thailand and all across theUnited States. They may not be coming for the concerts, per se, but they are spreading the word to others who use the trail.Meanwhile, the boaters in the marina

also are spreading the word as well as bringingnew business to the city. Pittsburgh Boat Salesrecently moved into the Palisades building’sgarage, where the company will be near its clientele, which is growing in the Pittsburgh area. And even though there has been a largeturnover in ownership of recreational boats due in part to the recession, the desire of boatersto have a slip in McKeesport is very strong,Dougherty said. Currently, all of the 30-footerslips are leased, leaving just a dozen 20-foot slipsavailable for use.In addition to the almost bucolic calm of

the marina, as well as the nearby amenities and the new faces encountered along the trail,boaters are grooving to the tunes played by a variety of bands that the city hires for free concerts at the marina. The concerts are open tothe public throughout the summer and this yearthere will be at least 10 such performances andpossibly more if a couple more bands can bebooked, Dougherty said.All of the concerts occur on Saturday nights

from 8 to 11 p.m. and occur at the marina. OnJune 12, the Smooth Groove Band will play.

June 19’s concert features Tube City Dukes withSpecial Guest Eugene Morgan. On July 10 theTim Scott Band will perform, and on July 24,Tres Lads will entertain during the Marina’sChristmas in July Party.Six on the Beach will bring their nautically

inspired flair to the Marina on August 7; and for the Marina Poker Run on Aug. 14, a band tobe announced will play. On Aug. 21, the TubeCity Dukes will perform with a special guest. The Tube City Dukes also will play with guestGuitar Zack on Sept. 4. And finally, the bandSmooth Groove will perform on Sept. 13. Local blues legend Billy Price also might perform this summer at the Marina, Dougherty said. Boaters and music-lovers are encouraged to check the city’s website,www.mckeesport.org, for updates and schedulechanges to the Marina Concert Series.McKeesport city administrator Dennis

Pittman said the increased awareness and usage of the marina is all part of Mayor JamesBrewster’s plan to revamp the city and bring itback to a new, enhanced vitality. Pittman saidthat for some of the concerts and other events at the Marina, boaters from outside the area arecoming in to dock, enjoy the music, and makenew friends.“The city is a destination point for boaters

because of what we offer with the Marina, the Palisades and the trail. These boaters aremaking a visit to the Marina an excursion weekend, and that’s a good thing for everyone,”Pittman said. Dougherty said that word of the Marina at

McKees Point is spreading, but many still aren’t aware of all the place offers.“People would be surprised to know that

we have so much entertainment down here. It’sone of the best-kept secrets in the Mon Valley,”Dougherty said.

McKeesport Marina– of boats and good times

By Jonathan Barnes

While out on a cruise one sunny afternoon, a pleasure boater loses powerby the confluence of the Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers nearMcKeesport. After failing at many attempts to re-start his vessel, the boatercalls for help. McKeesport River Rescue speeds to the distressed boater’s aid,helping to tow his craft back to the Marina at McKees Point nearby.In a way, the rescue is just another day in the city, which boasts a full-time

fire department which also includes the River Rescue team. The group istrained in rescuing people both on the water and underneath the water, andsoon, thanks to the help of the city, the first-responders will have another,powerful weapon in their quest to provide safety throughout the city and the surrounding area.Fire safety in McKeesport extends to all of its boundaries—on land as well

as on the rivers that surround the city, said Chuck Margliotti, deputy assistantfire chief and river rescue team coordinator for McKeesport Fire Department.And because McKeesport River Rescue is one of the few such water-basedemergency response teams in the Mon Valley, its role in providing supportfor rescues around the city and in other communities is essential. That’s why the city’s decision to acquire a specially designed river rescue boat for its rescue team is another forward-thinking move on the part of city leaders,said McKeesport city administrator Dennis Pittman.Soon, the rescue team will replace its

modified pleasure craft that it uses forrescue with the “fireboat.” The$147,000 fireboat will be equippedwith a water pump enabling it to sprayup to 2,000 gallons per minute on afire. The twin-engine boat, equippedwith two 300 horsepower engines, will have sides that fold open to facili-tate rescue and recovery operations,Margliotti said.While McKeesport has

had a river rescue for about a decade, it is the best-equippedand largest of the Mon Valleyriver rescue teams. The additionof the new fireboat to the teamwill bring an element of professional service currentlyunavailable in the Mon Valley,said Ed Harmon, assistant deputy fire chief for McKeesport Fire Department.

In coordination with the new craft, members of the river rescue also arereceiving additional training this summer. The team is comprised of 32 members of the fire department, six of whom are trained in underwater rescue. Soon, team members will receive more training in water-based fire-fighting, as well as adding more members who are trained in dive operations.Having the Marina at McKees Point nearly full with 180 boats docked thereand also increased industrial traffic from mills in and around the city, therivers around McKeesport are bustling with boats, Harmon said. “There are a lot of boaters here and the pool keeps getting busier every

year. Accidents do happen... And a lot of what we do is preventative,”Harmon said. Many of the calls the rescue team responds to involve mechanical failure

with boats, but other calls also are working to avoid catastrophe, such as when the team responds to the scene of a would-be suicide, where a person is hanging off a bridge and police are trying to talk him down. The rescueteam waits beneath the bridge in case the would-be jumper actually leaps.“McKeesport really is surrounded by rivers. The Youghiogheny

travels the one side of the city,” Margliotti said. “We needed a boat thatwould navigate both rivers easily.”

In addition to being able to provide better help to pleasure boaters, the new fireboat will allow rescue team members to fight a land-based fire along thewaterfront from the boat—or, of course, to fight a fire on an industrial boat. That complements the professional service provided by the full-time fire department and could be a selling point to businesses considering locating in and around the city, Margliotti said.“McKeesport has put themselves in a good position[through the purchase],”Margliotti said. “The mayor and council’s support helped a lot.”

McKeesport River RescueAdding Boat and Training

By Jonathan Barnes


In the past few years, infrastructure work being done inMcKeesport has progressed at a fast clip. The Marshall Drive/Route 48 intersection has been completed, work is being done on the riverfront trail alongside the Marina at McKees Point, andnow, West Fifth Avenue is next. The $1.1 million project will reconstruct the street and parts of the sidewalk along west FifthAvenue, from Rebecca Avenue to the Marathon Oil station. The section of road is about a mile long.The project has been in the planning stage for a year, said

McKeesport city administrator Dennis Pittman, noting that the road was resurfaced 10 years ago. Because subsurface work wasn’t done to the street, it must be reconstructed. This time, the contractor will be encapsulating

old Pittsburgh Railways tracks that are buriedbeneath the road and which make a properreconstruction impossible as long as theyare buried.“The expansion and contraction of

the rails in the winter exacerbates the deterioration of the asphalt,” Pittman said. The section of road is the major east-west artery connecting McKeesport to Glassport and Elizabeth and elsewhere,Pittman said. “It’s very heavily traveled,” he said.

Donegal Construction recently won the contract for the workwith a bid of $1.089 million, plus inspection costs of $80,000. The local share of the cost of the project that will come fromMcKeesport is $177,000. Those funds will come from McKeesport’sgeneral fund, Pittman said.Construction work will begin immediately on the project and

is expected to be completed by the end of October. Work on theproject will impede traffic to one lane and could be done duringsome evenings to lessen the impact on commuters, Pittman said.A separate but related road project, the reconstruction of west

Fifth Avenue from Rebecca Avenue to the Jerome Street Bridge, also will be done while the city road project is being done. The second project is being coordinated by the Pennsylvania

Department of Transportation, which owns that section of WestFifth Avenue. The project will involve reconstruction of 650

feet of the road. Folino Construction has been awarded the contract for that smaller job.

“It gives us a complete project,” Pittman said.

By Jonathan Barnes

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Phil Martini grew up with planes and the idea of flight. His parents started taking him to air shows when he was onlythree years old. As a child, he played with toy planes and colored in airplane coloring books. As a teen, he owned the very first version of Microsoft Flight Simulator and hasowned every version since.Despite an obvious disposition towards flight,

Martini never really thought about becoming apilot until he heard about the Pittsburgh FlightTraining Center. When he sat down to consider the option, he knew he had to give it a shot. Not only did it fit his lifelonginterest, but it also made logical sense.“This was a chance for me to both get an

associates degree and flight training,” Martini said.The Pittsburgh Flight Training Center is located

at the Allegheny County Airport and does exactly what itsname suggests. The center is partnered with the CommunityCollege of Allegheny County and through the college, PFTC students are trained in the classroom as well as through personalflight training sessions. In-plane training sessions take place in one of the center’s 12 aircrafts. Students can work towards theirprivate, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, and CFI ratings.

The PFTC started in 1980 and is the oldest flight trainingschool in the Pittsburgh area. The school offers training for Part 61 and Part 141 certification and provided 4,910 hours oftraining in 2009. The center also believes they are a friendlier and cheaper alternative to bigger flight training schools that don’t have locations near Pittsburgh.

“Some people say this is like a hidden gem becauseeveryone doesn’t know about it. The quality of flighttraining here for the value in Pittsburgh, without everleaving home, is unbelievable,” said Mike Kramer, the general manager of PFTC.Kramer isn’t the only source making that

statement; the numbers make it as well. According to the Airline Transport Professionals website, it costs

a student $8,495 to earn a private pilot’s license at theirschool and $39,991 to earn a commercial license. ATP is

one of the country’s largest flight training schools. In comparison to ATP, Kramer said that PFTC’s prices,

while they vary depending on the progression of each student,average around $5,523 for a private license and $9,582 for a commercial license. Those prices don’t include $2,457 and$4,818 government subsidies for private and commercial training, respectively.

Over Western Pennsylvania by Josh Wetmore

IN McKeesport | Summer 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 17IN McKeesport | Summer 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1716 724.942.0940 to advertise | IN McKeesport

“We make flight training as affordable as we possibly can, andwe mean that,” Kramer said. “You can go straight from here to theregional airline, nothing gapped at all.”PFTC is also different from schools like ATP in that they don’t

have a set timetable for its flight training milestones. WhilePart 141 training, the more demanding and professionaltraining regimen, requires students to fly three days aweek, some students choose to fly as many as fivetimes a week, helping them earn their license sooner and at a lower cost. For Part 61, the frequency of training sessions is up to the student’sdiscretion but the center recommends at leasttwice a week.At a pace of two to three flights a week, a student

can earn his/her private license in seven or eightmonths and get a commercial license in two and a half years.“We want you to do well. We don’t want you to keep

repeating everything,” Kramer said. Martini, who taught Kramer how to fly as an instructor for

PFTC and is now a corporate pilot, said the Pittsburgh FlightTraining Center was the opportunity he needed.“If it wasn’t for the program, I wouldn’t be where I am today,”

said Martini who added that although learning to fly is fun, it also takes effort. “It’s not easy, it takes a lot of time, a lot of effort, a lot of study, and a lot of money.”Flight training might not be a walk in the park but the

Pittsburgh Flight Training Center prides itself on making flight training as easy as possible. The center gives each student a primary instructor who will administer each of the student’s lessons unless the instructor is absent, in which a secondary instructor will take over. Also all of the center’s planes are Cessna models meaning students aren’t tied to one specific airplane. Along with making the process short, Kramer believes flight training in general is worth a shot as either a profession or a hobby.“It’s a good time right now,” Kramer said about the piloting

job market. “There are more people leaving the industry than there are trained to take over.”Martini agrees that becoming a professional pilot is worth

the work. And that even the training can be exciting.“The first time you get into an airplane… it’s… I don’t

even know how to describe it,” Martini said. “It’s like a lifelong thing.”

For those who are interested in but unsure about flight training, PFTC offers a half hour intro flight for $87 and an hour flight for $165. Once training begins, the training center’s instructors are prepared for any kind of student.

“We’ve seen it all here,” Kramer said. “The apprehension is natural and that’s what we want to tell them. If you come in here the first couple of times, you’re going to be nervous. We don’t just sit there in the right seat with our arms crossed and say ‘take off’ or ‘land,’ you know – abrasive. Its nothing like that, we’re in tune to if they’re uncomfortable; we can tell.”Kramer does admit that flying isn’t for everyone.

Some people do find it too intense and others just aren’t made to be pilots, but those people tend to be in

the minority. From his experience, the more people fly, the more they love it.“You can get hooked on aviation real quick. That’s why

everyone does it for a living,” Kramer said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

For more information on the Pittsburgh Flight Training Center,call 412.466.1111, e-mail at [email protected] or visit their website at www.pghflight.com.


A Message from the School Board President

Welcome back! This year brings a lot of excitement and change to our district. We look forward to breaking ground on our three building projects and keeping the best interest of our community in all of the decisions that we encounter.

One of the biggest factors in the overall success of our students and our district will always be our ability to work in partnership with our parents and the community.We hope that you feel welcome in our schools and that you will take advantage ofopportunities to become involved, to learn more about your school district and tobe a part of the many things that are taking place. Members of the school board of directors encourage parents and guardians

to be actively involved, in all areas if the district, by attending board and buildinglevel meetings. Board Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of everymonth. Sessions begin at 7:30 p.m. in the board room at the district administration building, located at 3590 O’Neil Boulevard in McKeesport.On behalf of the board, I hope you had a great summer and welcome back!

Sincerely,Wayne N. WashowichPresident, McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors

Welcome Welcome To the McKeesport Area School District pages!In this section you will find important information from the Superintendent and the School BoardPresident, and dates and events to remember for the rest of the school year. We have once again highlighted the talented students who truly make our schools a great place to learn!

20 IN McKeesport

Dear MASD Community Members,

As we conclude the summer break, I’d liketo thank MASD students, families, facultyand staff for coming together and making2009-2010 a successful school year. TheDistrict is proud of the accomplishmentsthat were made over the past school year.The academic curriculum delivered to our

students is aligned to the Pennsylvania State Standards and an ongoing effort to promote the delivery of research based instructionand curriculum to each student is at the forefront of our efforts. Changes for the upcoming school year include the streamlining

of the academic coaching program. This year we will bring theacademic coaching services under one roof to promotecollaborative planning and the implementation of quality staffdevelopment. Academic Coaching Services will be provided to all buildings to ensure that best practices in instruction andassessment will be implemented consistently district wide. Thedistrict’s ongoing parent and staff training sessions have proven to be extremely popular and will continue throughout the nextschool year. I encourage the entire community to take an activerole in the education of our students. Learning is an ongoingprocess. It is the responsibility of an entire community to impressupon our students the value of obtaining a quality education.

As we open to the 2010-2011 school year, we do so with aresolve of insuring that all students are provided the mostappropriate education possible. The District will continue tomeet individual needs of all students. Our team is excited andfeels privileged to work with the children of McKeesport and will continue exploring ways to improve the quality of educationoffered to students who attend our schools. I encourage you tovisit the district’s website, www.mckasd.com, for updatedinformation regarding the District and individual school events. Celebrate the good things happening throughout theDistrict. Look for newsletters as well as future editions of theInMcKeesport Area Magazines. Watch for future updates on the District’s building projects and other activities going onthroughout the District.

I would like to personally welcome back all students for thestart of the 2010-2011 school year. I ask all who have a vestedinterest in the McKeesport Area School District to continueworking in the best interest of our students.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael B. BrinkosSuperintendent

A Letter From the Superintendent

S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 Don’t Let Knee Pain

Sideline You This Summer

page 3 What You Don’t Do Can Mean a Healthier You

page 4 Heads Up on Helmet Safety

Be Sun Smart This Summer

page 5 Digital Mammography Saves Lives

page 6 The Freedom of Independent Living

page 7 What’s Happening at UPMC McKeesport





2 www.UPMC.com/Today

This is the time of year we all love to head outdoors — to the garden, golf course, or bike trail. But if you’re among the 27 million Americans who suffer chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis, summer isn’t always fun. What can you do to ease your pain and get back into the swing of the activities you enjoy?

Michael Tranovich, MD, of Pittsburgh Bone & Joint Surgeons, PC, says many nonsurgical treatments are available to ease knee pain resulting from arthritis. “A good place to begin is by making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight to reduce stress on the joints and avoiding high-impact activities that aggravate the knees,” he advises. Other non-surgical options you might consider include:

• Low-impact exercise and physical therapy to help improve the strength and flexibility of your knee. Physical therapy can increase stability by strengthening the surrounding muscles. An exercise program that includes stretching and low-impact activities such as riding a stationary bike, swimming, and light weight training also can be effective in treating arthritis.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) — such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), and naproxen (Aleve®, Naprosyn®) — are used to relieve pain. But use caution: NSAIDs can have side effects, especially if taken over long periods of time or in amounts greater than the recommended dosage.

• Corticosteroid injections into the knee joint are used to reduce symptoms of an arthritis flare-up and provide relief that may last a few months. However, injections don’t work for everyone and can cause side effects.

Surgery may be necessarywhen other treatmentmeasures fail to provide relief, says Dr. Tranovich.“But before making any decision, consider the prosand cons of surgical andnonsurgical measures,” he advises. If your injuryrequires surgery or youchoose to have surgery,your options include:

• Arthroscopic surgery enables doctors to examine and repair joint damage using a technique (arthroscopy) that requires a few small incisions. Doctors use arthroscopy to remove loose bodies from the knee joint, repair torn or damaged cartilage, reconstruct torn ligaments, and occasionally to correct damage caused by arthritis.

• Partial knee replacement is a procedure used by doctors to replace the most damaged portion of the knee with a prosthesis made of metal and plastic. This surgery can usually be performed through small incisions and requires a brief hospital stay. While recovery time is faster than total knee replacement, long-term results may not be as effective.

• Total knee replacement surgery — where doctors replace the entire knee with an artificial joint — is performed on more than 600,000 people worldwideeach year. With recent advancements in surgical technique and implant design, many patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery have experienced dramatic improvements in pain levels, function, and quality of life.

UPMC McKeesport has board-certified orthopaedic surgeons on staff to guide you through the various treatment options that will get you back in the game quickly. Contact information for the orthopaedic surgeons on staff at UPMC McKeesport is available under the Physician Listing on page 7 of this newsletter.

Don’t Let Knee Pain Sideline You This Summer

Summer Checklist:

Whether you’re heading to the beach or planning a “staycation” this year, here are some “Summer Don’t Do’s”that might surprise you:

Don’t eat your fruits ‘n veggies until you wash them thoroughly. Consider going organic when purchasing produce that sustains high levels of pesticides even after washing. The “dirty dozen” includes apples, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, raspberries,strawberries, bell peppers, celery, potatoes, and spinach.

Don’t pet Fido if he’s been playing in poison ivy. Rashes from poison ivy, oak, or sumac can be picked up from the urushiol — the substancefound in the sap of plants — that sticks to clothing, shoes, tools, toys, and even pets. Surprisingly, it can’t be spread from person to person or by scratching. Wash your skin thoroughly after working or playingoutside, particularly if you suspectyou’ve come into contact with poison ivy. You might need to wash your gardening gloves, tools — and even the dog!

Don’t shower, don’t wash the dishes, and don’t do laundry during a thunderstorm. Keep the kids awayfrom video games, too. Lightning can travel through wires or pipes extending outside, so it’s important to avoid contact with plumbing andelectrical wires during storms. If someone is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 for immediate medical care. Remember, lightning strike victimscarry no electrical charge, so you can attend to them immediately.

Don’t hold the mayo at summer picnics and cookouts. You won’t getfood poisoning from eating potato salad, chicken salad, and other food just because it contains mayonnaise.The real culprits are the bacteria thatflourish on foods containing protein attemperatures between 40º and 140º F.To prevent illness, keep hot foods hot (140º F or above) and cold foodscold (40º F or below). Discard all perishables left at room temperaturelonger than two hours — one hour if the temperature is 90º or higher.When in doubt, throw it out!

Don’t leave grandma, the kids, or the dog waiting in the car. A car can heat up quicklyeven when it’s relatively mild outside.On a summer day, temperatures inside a vehicle can climb more than 40 degrees in just an hour! Be careful with outside activities, too. Young children and the elderly are particularlyvulnerable in hot, humid weather.

Prevent overheating by reducing activities.Wear light, loose-fittingclothes and drink plenty of water or sports drinks before, during, and after physical activity. Anyone showingsigns of heat illness should lie down in a cool place with legs elevated.Loosen or remove clothing. Use water, wet towels, and fanning to promote cooling until help arrives.

For a complete list of our summer“don’t do’s,” including treating bee stings and drinking water, visit us online at www.upmc.com/today.

What You Don’t Do Can Mean a Healthier You

Summer Checklist

Having a primary care physician (PCP) means entering a partnership with a doctor whose ultimategoal is to help you stay healthy. PCPs do that bygetting to know you, your lifestyle, and your familyhistory. In addition to handling non-emergencycare, your PCP monitors your ongoing healthneeds, maintains your health records, and focuses on preventive care. If you have a medical problem,your PCP will tell you what to do and link you tothe right specialist or support program. PCP’s have specialties in general internal medicine, familypractice/general practice, and pediatrics.

Why is a primary care physician important to your good health?

Non-emergencies typically handled by your primary care doctor:

• colds• sore throat• headaches• back pain• aches/pains• strains/sprains• fever• physicals • infant care (including immunizations)

1-800-533-UPMC 3

4 www.UPMC.com/Today

Heads Upon Helmet SafetyMost children don’t like to wear helmets when biking. But the facts show that helmets work. A properly fitted bicycle helmet can reduce your risk of head injury by 85 percent and reduce therisk of brain injury by 88 percent, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Getting children in the“helmet habit” helps protect their brains from serious injury.

Even professional bike riders know that bike crashes or collisions can happen at any time. In three of four bike crashes, the biker usually suffers some sort of injury to the head. Each year in the United States, about half a million kids are seriously injured in bicycle-related accidents; between 45 percent and 88 percent of bicycle-related brain injuries would be prevented with the use of a helmet.

A well-fitted helmet gives your child added protection from injury,so take a few minutes to learn the basics:

• The helmet should sit flat on the head — make sure it is level and is not tilted back or forward. If the helmet leans forward, adjust the rear straps. If it tilts backward,tighten the front straps.

• The front of the helmet should sit low — about two fingerwidths above the eyebrows to protect the forehead.

• The straps on each side should form a “Y” over the ears, with one part of the strap in front of and one behind — just below the earlobes.

• The chinstrap should buckle securely at the throat so that the helmet feels snug and does not move up and down or from side to side.

Head injuries aren’t just limited to bikers. Crashes during other outdoor activities such as rollerblading, skateboarding, ice skating,and skiing can also result in head injury. So use your head to protect your child’s. Make helmets required gear for all familymembers when participating in these activities.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.bam.gov) and Kidshealth.org

Keep your kids safe while they keep cool this summer. Visit www.upmc.com/today for tips on swimming pool safety.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan Be Sun Smart This SummerThink twice before basking on the beach or slipping into a tanning booth this summer — that perfect tan

comes with a price tag. Last year,more than a million Americans ofall ages were diagnosed with someform of skin cancer.

“Indoor and outdoor tanning areequally risky because both exposeyou to ultraviolet radiation in theform of UVA and UVB rays,” saysJohn Kirkwood, MD, director

of the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.

Both have been shown to increase your risk of skin cancer.

“UV rays increase your risk for skin cancer because they trigger mutations, and also knock out the immune response that enables the body to protect itself,” says Dr. Kirkwood. Skin cancers caused by UV rays may not appear for years — lulling people into thinking thattanning and sun exposure are safe and even healthy.

Are You at Risk?Not just sun worshippers are in danger. You can be, too,if you have:

• An increased number of moles• A personal or family history of skin cancer• A sensitivity to the sun or freckling tendency that makes you work extra hard to tan

• Had two or more serious sunburns before age 18• A job or recreational activity that regularly puts you in the sun

What Can You Do?Avoid tanning beds, and work at reducing your exposure to strong sources of UV light, such as natural sunshine. Choose a broad-spectrum sun protection product that has a high SPF to protect against UVA and UVB rays, such as one that contains micronized zinc oxide or titanium oxide. And be sure to alert your doctor to skin changes

such as itchy, scaly patches, wounds that won’t heal, an increased number of

moles, or new, changing, or unusual moles.

1-800-533-UPMC 5

Digital Mammography Saves LivesImproves the Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Innovation at UPMC

When Sherry DelGrosso turned 40 in February, she followed her doctor’s advice and scheduled a routine mammogram. Although she’d had a scare with a benign, atypical growth nine years earlier, she was considered a low-risk patient with no family history of breast cancer and had little reason for concern.

But her digital mammogram revealed a tiny growth in herdense breast tissue that she was unable to find through self-examination. Her April 9 diagnosis, which came on her husband’s birthday, confirmed she had infiltrating ductal carcinoma. As the mother of a four-year-old daughter, she decided to attack the cancer aggressively by undergoing a bilateral mastectomy at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC in May.

Ms.DelGrosso says the digital mammogram enabled doctors to detect her cancer early so she could begin treatment. “This technology absolutelysaved my life. It caught my cancer early before it could spread or metastasize. It means so much to me to know I will be here for my beautifuldaughter,” she says.

Catching Cancer EarlierKandace McGuire, MD, assistant professor of surgery at Magee, says the cutting-edge digital mammography available to doctors at UPMC is helpingthem catch cancer in its very early stages,which means a better chance of survival for breast cancer patients.

“Digital mammography catches cancer earlier. It is saving lives,” says Dr. McGuire, the breast surgical oncologist who performed Ms.DelGrosso’s mastectomy.

Margarita Zuley, MD, director of breast imaging at Magee, says the new technology is better at detecting cancer in women under 50 and womenwith dense breast tissue. Research also indicates digital mammography is betterable to detect Stage 0 breast cancer.

Digital mammography is a “wonderful first” in a promisingnew era of technology, says Dr. Zuley. “It’s a very excitingtime to be in breast imaging. We have so many new tools for diagnosis.”

“The earlier we detect breast cancer, the lower the stage and the greater the survival rate. That means less need for radical surgeries, lymph node dissection, and systemicchemotherapy. Reducing treatment with earlier detectionhelps the patient.”

Newer and Better Technology Provides a Closer LookDigital mammography also providesnewer and better technology for capturing the image and transferring it to a computer. While digital mammography uses x-rays — the same technology used in traditional mammograms — the images are collected on a digital detector and stored on a computer rather than collected and stored on film. Viewing the images on a computer gives doctors a closer look at the structures in thebreast, helping them to diagnose potentially life-threatening breasttumors.

Another benefit of digital mammographyis that it can offer women instant feedback. Once the mammogram is complete, the image is available for doctors and radiologists to view immediately and in the same room.

Digital mammography is currently offered at UPMC McKeesport and most other UPMC locations. Talk toyour physician to determine if a digitalmammogram would be preferable based on such factors as age and family history. Above all, never put off having a regular mammogram.

For more information about digital mammography or any of UPMC’s imaging services, call 1-800-533-UPMC, option 1.

Ms. DelGrosso’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.

Traditional film

Digital film

A Clearer, Closer PictureDigital mammography is helpingdoctors at UPMC catch cancer inits very early stages, which meansa better chance of survival forbreast cancer patients.

Pictured above are examples ofboth traditional and digital films.

26 IN Woodland Hills6 www.UPMC.com/Today

You’re ready for independent living if:

Are You Ready?The Freedom of Independent LivingMow the lawn. Wash the windows. Pay the bills.

There’s an endless list of tasks thatcomes with owning and maintaining a home. But after a lifetime of raising a family and working hard, is it time for a change in your life?

For a growing number of Pittsburghseniors, the answer is decidedly “yes!” as they discover the benefits of independent living. It’s a lifestyle choice.

“The biggest reason you should consider independent living is the freedom it offers to both you and your family,” says Kitty Collins, a vice president with UPMC SeniorCommunities. “Residents in our independent living communities oftensay they wish they had moved earlier,because they’re now free to pursue their hobbies and interests in the company of other like-minded adults.”

Interested in the theater? Love to shop?Fanatic about Pittsburgh’s athleticteams? Wish you could be part of a book club, walkers group, or volunteerorganization? These are just a samplingof the activities you’ll find as an independent living resident.

Independent Living Means Choices“Today’s support network for seniors is very different than it was 20 yearsago,” explains Ms. Collins. “For youngfamilies in which both spouses mustwork, there’s just not enough time tokeep up their own home, tend to theirchildren’s activities, and help a parent.”

Many families of independent living residents at UPMC find that they nolonger spend their weekends running errands and assisting with home chores. Visits mean quality time spent together; there are even rooms for family parties and game rooms for grandchildren to enjoy billiards, a hand of cards, or watch movies.

Some seniors worry that independentliving means “giving things up.” At UPMC Senior Communities, the emphasis is on providing residentswith the kind of valued amenities andsupport seniors want in their lives.These include:

• Weekly housekeeping and laundry services

• Onsite dining with freshly prepared meals (and the option of making their own)

• Transportation services for shopping and appointments

“Our residents find that great flexibility awaits them at our independent living residences — from bringing their beloved family pet and having their car on-site, to furnishing their residence with their favorite furniture and decorating it with their own signature style,” says Ms. Collins.

With locations in neighborhoods throughout the Pittsburgh area, UPMC Senior Communities also gives independent living residents the opportunity to stay connected to friends and neighbors, and remain active in their faith and community organizations.

Making the Move EasierSurprisingly, the hardest part of leaving ahome for most seniors isn’t the memoriesthey’ll leave behind. As one UPMC independent living resident says,“Memoriesare easy to bring along with you.”

But preparing to put your home up for sale can be daunting. In response to requests from prospective residents, UPMC Senior Communities has developed a variety of partnerships with reputable and high-integrity organizations that specialize in helping seniors organize, stage, and sell their homes, explains Ms. Collins. “These professionals help eliminate the hurdlesandworries everyone faces whenmoving.”

You’re ready for independent living if:• You value your privacy and independence• You enjoy spending some time in the company of other adults your age• You feel more comfortable with the added security and safety offered in acommunity setting• Arthritis, vision problems, or other physical limitations sometimes complicate living at home• You welcome the thought of “hassle-free” living

In addition to independent living residences, UPMC Senior Communitiesalso offers assisted living and skilled nursing options for seniors who need added care.

Want to learn more?For more information, call 1-800-324-5523 or visit www.upmcseniorcommunities.com

1-800-533-UPMC 7

What’s Happeningat UPMC McKeesport

Meet Our PhysiciansPlease visit www.upmc.com/findadoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians.

UPMC McKeesport is pleased to introduce the following physicians:

CARDIOLOGISTS

UPMC CVI Century Cardiac CareIhsan Awan, MDStephen Bowser, MDSimon Chough, MDFrancis Ergina, MDPerinkulam Viswanathan, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-664-4124.

Adler and Krause Cardiology Medical AssociatesLawrence Adler, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-823-3300.

Buck Medical AssociationHoracio Aure, MDJoseph Secosky, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-672-9781.

Heart of Pittsburgh, PCJerome Itzkoff, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-621-3131.

Madhavan, Chandra and Tauberg Cardiology Medical AssociatesVasantha Madhavan, MDRamesh Chandra, MDStuart Tauberg, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-823-3113 or 412-469-0600.

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS

Mitchell E. Antin, DOFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-390-3430.

Pittsburgh Bone & Joint Surgeons, PCEric Chamberlin, MDGeorge Kappakas, MDChristopher Radkowski, MDMichael Tranovich, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-678-0534.

David Hartmann, MDTimothy Honkala, MDRobert Weiss, MDFor more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 412-267-5040.

Health Education Classes Close to HomeSmoking Cessation Programs Help Clear the Air!UPMC McKeesport’s smoking cessation program offers a wide range of community-based classes to assist you in your quest to quit smoking. The classes include smoke-freeeducation and instruction, individual counseling, tips on quitting, and ongoing supportthrough nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges provided by UPMC McKeesport and Tobacco Free Allegheny.

The classes are held:Mondays, 1 to 2:45 p.m., UPMC McKeesport Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center, Oak Park Mall, White Oak, PA

Tuesdays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., UPMC McKeesport, Conference Room, A-level Crawford Building, McKeesport, PA

Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., UPMC McKeesport Outpatient Center, Three Parkway Center East, 2020 Ardmore Blvd., Forest Hills, PA

Thursdays, 1:30 to 3 p.m., Latterman Family Health Center, 2347 Fifth Ave., McKeesport, PA

Thursdays, 4:30 to 7 p.m., 9th Street Free Clinic for the Uninsured, The Common Ground, 409 9th Street, McKeesport, PA

For more information, call 412-664-2114, or simply stop by one of the conveniently located smoking cessation community locations.

28 IN McKeesport

UPMC McKeesport1500 Fifth Ave.McKeesport, PA 15132

Even the smallest discovery is important. Doctors rely on quality images to make accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions fortheir patients. UPMC is a leader in creating and adopting cutting-edge technologiesto enhance medical imaging and improve patient care. In fact, some of the most innovative advances in the field of radiology have happened in our hospitals, such as the invention of PET/CTa combined technology that can help to detect cancerin its earliest stages. And our state-of-the-art computer system allows imaging scansto be quickly accessed and viewed by physicians across our network with just theclick of a mouse. Our advanced technology and expert radiologists can make a real difference in your care. Whether you need an x-ray or advanced radiology testing,trust Imaging Services at UPMC McKeesport. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 412-664-CARE (2273) or visit UPMC.com/Imaging.

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.

McKeesport Area Contact Information


Administrative Team

Special Education SupervisorMr. David Listorti412.664.3625

Special Education Administrative AssistantMr. Menas Zannikos412.664.3624

District Grants and Special Projects Coordinator/Director of Vocational EducationMrs. Patricia Scales412.948.1362

Coordinator of EarlyChildhood EducationDr. Catherine Lobaugh412.948.1386

Secondary Curriculum andTransformation CoordinatorMr. Harry Bauman412.948.1310

Principal of Cyber School/District Technology IntegrationDr. Jane Coughenour412.948.1317

Communications/Public Relations SpecialistMs. Kristen Davis412.664.3645

Director of Buildings and GroundsMr. Edward Fagan412.664.3631

Technology CoordinatorMr. H. Ben South412.664.3764

CentralAdministration

SuperintendentDr. Michael Brinkos412.664.3612

Assistant SuperintendentDr. Timothy Gabauer412.664.3622

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

Director of Human Resources/Administration ServicesMr. James G. Humanic412.664.3608

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

Director of Special EducationMrs. Patricia Tkacik412.664.3622

Director Food ServiceMs. Tammi Davis412.664.3685

School Board of Directors

James L. Brown

Joseph L. Chiaverini

Christopher A.Halaszynski

Mark P. Holtzman

Vice PresidentSteven E. Kondrosky

Dennis J. (Joe)Lopretto

Thomas P. Maglicco

Patricia A. Maksin

PresidentWayne N.Washowich

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

George Washington1818 Sumac StreetMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3770Fax: 412.664.3738Principal: Mr. Paul Sweda

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

Francis McClureIntermediate School500 Longvue DriveWhite Oak, PA 15131Office: 412.664.3740Fax: 412.664.3747Principals: Dr. Rula SkezasMs. Pamela GordonPrincipal of Cyber School/DistrictTechnology Integration: Dr. Jane Coughenour

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

McKeesport Area High Schooland Technology Center1960 Eden Park BoulevardMcKeesport, PA 15132Office: 412.664.3650Fax: 412.664.3621Head Principal of Academics:Mr. Mark HoltzmanDirector of Career and Technology Center:Mrs. Patricia Scales

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

McKeesport Area School Information

30 IN McKeesport

A friend of mine told me something that rooted in my mind thatI constantly ponder. He stated that there are times when no one isaround and you will have to find some way to accomplish the taskyou are attempting, no matter how difficult it may be.

Although the words he spoke may havemeant very little to him at the time, thesimple statement changed the way Iapproached tasks. This advice can beapplied to practically anything in life to aidin reaching success. When situationsbecome difficult, there are two possibilitiesthat one may choose: either turn away and

run or face the challenge and attempt to persist through. I believethe class of 2010 has charged head first through life. If you lookaround the auditorium, you will see a class that has excelled in allareas McKeesport High School has to offer. From music to cosme-tology, auto mechanics to athletics, McKeesport is providing theworld with skilled induviduals who will undoubtedly improve theareas in which they specialize. In today’s society, many are quick tojudge McKeesport Area High School as a less than adequate placeto get an education. There is nothing further from the truth. Thecourses that our school offers not only deliver a solid education butallow students to interact, form relationships, and grow as a family.Just as the city of McKeesport has faced adversity head-on, theclass of 2010 can rely on the bond we have with one another toweather the storms we will unquestionably face as we branch outfrom our Tiger roots. If one walks down the hallways of our school,one can observe students and teachers greeting each other, laugh-ing together, and learning together. Because of this strong bond, Iam proud to be a part of the McKeesport class of 2010. The count-less memories of enjoyable times with classmates throughout theyears have made high school the most rewarding time of my life.From Dr. K’s labs to fixing ridges, forming my foundation here hasbeen both fun and inspiring, and I would like to thank my peers,teachers, and administration for this fulfilling and unforgettablefamily that has been built over the past four years. I frequently think of my friend’s advice about finding oneself

alone and facing adversity. We will all face challenges in our livesthat we have to overcome, but we will never truly be alone, becausewe have our Tiger family behind us. As the saying goes, “Once aTiger, Always a Tiger.” If we continue to strive for excellence in allareas, as we have in the past, and rely on our roots to give us theencouragement we’ve always shared with each other, then nothingis insurmountable for us. Thank you and congratulations to theclass of 2010.

Nicholas A. FerraroValedictorian

Welcome family, friends, teachers, and administration to the graduation ceremony for the class of two thousand and ten. To the graduating seniors, I would like to say, “Congratulations.We have finally made it.” It seems like only yesterday that we

were on our first school bus ride to kindergarten, and now look at where we are today. Time flew by faster than we ever could have anticipated.The senior year of high school is always

a time where those around us repetitively say, “These are the best days of your life.These are the moments you will always

remember.” No matter how cliché this sentiment is, I cannot help but believe that it is true. I encourage us all to remember ouryears at McKeesport Area High School, from our freshman foodfight to dancing at our amazing senior prom. Never forget thebonds and ties we made, not only during high school but in theyears prior. It was on our journey together that we discovered who we are as individuals, whether we expressed ourselves bestthrough art, academics, or sports. The teachers who we favored,the classes that we loved, and the friends that got us through tough times all added to the infinite amount of memories we will always have to cherish.Keep in mind that these remarkable memories gained in

high school would not have occurred without the motivation of those close to us. Whether it was our parents, a cousin, or a family friend that encouraged us to strive for the best, graduating from high school would have been impossible without them. I know that without my parents’ enthusiasm and constant reassurance I would not be standing before you.Although I sometimes get embarrassed when they whip out prom pictures to show someone or tell any person who will listen about my future plans, I am thankful because I know they are acting out of pride for my achievements.Graduating high school is an accomplishment for which we all

should be extremely proud. Our hard work and dedication led usstraight to this day, as we sit here with excitement and a feeling ofsuccess. I wish all of my fellow graduating seniors the best of luck,and I hope that you will continue to experience success in everyaspect of your lives. Thank you, and once again, congratulations tothe class of two thousand and ten. We have finally made it.

Rachel RajcsokSalutatorian

Graduate Reflections

30 IN McKeesport IN McKeesport | Summer 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Friends, Romans, countrymen... I’ve always wanted to say that. I welcome you as we come together on this most glorious of occasions: to celebrate four years of hard work. The commencement ceremony of the class of two thousand and

ten. This dedication to ourselves andour families is to be forever cherished.Like all of the memories, we remember all of the life lessons that we havelearned here.A wise teacher once quoted Nelson

Mandela, “Our deepest fear is not thatwe are inadequate. Our deepest fear is

that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not ourdarkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?”Let’s not kid ourselves friends, we come together at a

challenging time for our district. We have all heard of the glorydays when classes of one thousand walked on commencement days, when MAHS was the leader in technology, athletics and academics and the PSSAs did not exist. So we must askourselves when times get hard and waters deep, do we give upor rise to the challenge and defy our stereotypes? Now morethan ever we must pull together and become one strong unitedMcKeesport. Do not forget your roots. Be proud of our community. It is our pride, not our problems that will makeour future bright.Now, before the merriment of commencement commences,

I hope that your years with us here at McKeesport have prepared you for the challenges you face. Who knows? Amongyou there may be a future Bill Gates or President Obama, andamong you young women, there may be a Betty White, aCondaleeza Rice, or even a Snookie. But you will alwaysremember the glorious memories of McKeesport High. McKeesport Class of 2010 forever.

David KisanStudent Council President

Good evening to my fellow graduates, administrators, familyand friends. I am truly honored to be speaking to this wonderfulsenior class. First and foremost, I would like to take the time to thank this

year’s graduating class for electing me as their president. It has truly been a wonderful experience and a great year! Iwould also like to thank the faculty and theadministration; and last, but certainly notleast, the people who make it possible for us to be sitting in these seats - our parents. I would like to acknowledge a few faculty

members who made an impact on my senior year. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Tharp and Mr. Saxon for your time, hard work, and dedication to our class this year.Our graduating class shares something unique; we were the

first to take part in Freshman Academy and project 720. One ofthe benefits of Freshman Academy was the bond it helps createamongst us. Our class is a family. We had times of disagreement,but we also gave each other words of encouragement, and weworked hard to make a difference. I’d like to share a few words of encouragement. A bit of advice

can be taken from the following quote by an unknown author:“The future lies before you, like a field of driven snow, be carefulhow you tread it, for every step will show”. I accept as true, that we are in control of our dreams and destinies. Every step we havetaken to get to this moment has brought us closer to our dreams.Today we walk up on the stage and receive our diplomas, we willbe completing an important chapter of our life.So, graduates, be proud to be a student of the McKeesport

High School Class of 2010. Cherish every memory that we haveshared. Even though we are going to begin the next chapter of our lives, taking different paths; no matter where those pathsmay lead, a bond has been created that can never be broken.Congratulations to the graduating class of 2010 and I wish yousuccess and happiness in life. It has genuinely been an honor and my pleasure. God bless you all.

Rosheeda BryantSenior Class President

32 IN McKeesport IN McKeesport | Summer 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Graduate Reflections (cont.)

Commencement Messages, Addresses and Thoughts from the McKeesport High School Class of 2010


McKeesport Area High School is not just a place to receivea quality education, but a place where one acquires a realworld experience. Although nothing can totally prepare youfor life, the teachers that I have had the pleasure of working

with and the classmates that I haveencountered have shown me the productive side of getting ready to face my future with excitement. I have been enrolled in the Building

Construction Program for the pastthree years. Throughout these years, Ihave been taught that work ethic is the

most valuable weapon a person can possess. For example, Iwas working on the trim in the modular home that we werebuilding, while I worked very hard for the entire period. AfterI finished, I found that Mr. Locke had been watching us thewhole period. The lesson we all learned is you should alwayswork to your full potential. Your boss maybe watching you!Another lesson that I have been taught is that the way thatyou approach a situation is important. For instance I had tocut, cope, and lay base board for most of our modular home.Therefore I prepared my tools the day before. This cuts downon wasted time, in the world of work every minute counts.Anyone can be taught if willing to learn, but to have a workethic to see that anything new is an opportunity to open newdoors in your life is rare. Mr. Locke said “If you’re fifteen minutes early for your job

you’re on-time, if you’re on-time you’re late, if you’re lateyou’re in trouble, but if you’re there before your superior thenyou’re in perfect shape,” and he was right. Communication is essential to survival in our future

endeavors. Before we begin to work, we would have meetingsto make sure that everyone was clear on what to do. Whetherthe project was renovating a courtyard or making a path forkids to easily walk up, we always talked to each other first. Mr. Locke was an open book when it came to his experiences.

He told us countless times, “If you want to do something,go for it, and let nothing stop you no matter how improbable people make it seem”. For each job we worked on, we became more skilled

and faster. Many jobs needed to be finished like the drywall, cabinetry, electrical, and crown molding, butbecause we were always working and listening to Mr.Locke we all were ready to get our jobs done correctly. I competed in the SkillsUSA competition where I saw how people work and why they chose this career and why those choose to go back to it every day. To them construction was second nature, it was career, and theirrelease. Most of all it was their passion. These people all started somewhere just like me.

What makes them great is the story of how they were prepared thanks to the people who taught them. Thanks to Mr. Locke’s guidance, my future plan is to get in thePittsburgh carpentry union program for commercial orresidential! After I possess my Journeymen’s paper I planto open “Clay Brother’s Construction” with my brother Brandon Clay.I feel that I have been truly blessed to be placed in the

Building Construction program. It has made me the manthat the world will soon see. Mr. Locke was a big influenceon my life throughout these years. He treated me withrespect as a student, worker, but also as a friend. Mostlyeverything I know is thanks to him and the teachers here at McKeesport. I would like to wish the class of 2010, andall future graduating classes of McKeesport Senior HighSchool good luck. Finally, I would like to say a personal“thank you” to all the teachers that have helped all of usreach our goals and dreams. Thank you!

Joshua ClayTop Technical Student

McKEESPORT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Graduate Memories

34 IN McKeesport


Students of DistinctionStudent (alphabetized) Parents

Nichole Bills Mr. and Mrs. Tom Bills

Lana Bodner Mr. and Mrs. James Bodner

Lisa Bodner Mr. and Mrs. James Bodner

William Bowen Jane Bowen and Bill Bowen

Casey Bricker Kevin Bricker and Cathy Callahan

Megan Brinkos Mr. and Mrs. Myles Brinkos

Nicholas A. Ferraro Patty and Angela FerraroValedictorian

Chelsea Frazier Mr. and Mrs. Robert Raynak

Blake Guzewicz Mr. Alan and Mrs. Cyndy Guzewicz

Alaina Harvey Mr. and Mrs. Don Harvey

Toriq Howie-Bey Tamara Bey and Nowell Howie

Kendall Hunter Mrs. Tina Hunter andMrs. Regina Richardson, Grandmother

Malia Jenkins Mrs. Dawn Jenkins andMr. David M. Jenkins, Jr.

Lydia Kinkaid Mr. Greg Kinkaid andMrs. Deborah Gregory Kinkaid

David Kisan Dave Kisan and Terri Kisan

Reita Kline Mr. and Mrs. George Kline

Kalynn Ocel Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ocel

Amanda Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Frank Peterson

Carly Pollock Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pollock

Rachel E. Rajcsok Mr. and Mrs. Robert RajcsokSalutatorian

Julie Rucker Mr. and Mrs. Nick and Sharon Rucker

Carmen Russo Rick and Amy Singer

Amanda Schrott Mr. and Mrs. Donald Schrott

Keyan Taylor Mrs. Tina Johnson

I wanted to take the time out today,because I have something important to say.The good times in Cornell are sadly over,I guess we aren’t lucky as a four-leaf clover.We finished math, science, and reading,we got smarter and now we are leaving. So, bye-bye Cornell, bye-bye Cornell,

you treated us all very well.I’m not going to shed anymore tears,we had some very, very good years.So, bye-bye Cornell, bye-bye Cornell,

you treated us all very well!

Written By:Keyla KennedyCornell, Room 317

Bye-Bye Cornell

34 IN McKeesport

GRADUATION 2010

As key players in a line of work that revolvesaround the idea of education, it might seem logical that teachers should constantly be learning about their own performance. Thisisn’t always the case, however. Often learningopportunities for teachers can be limited to ahandful of in-service days every year, but theMcKeesport Area School District is taking stepsto make the learning, and not just teaching, adaily activity for teachers in the district.

Over the last few years, the district has hiredand increased the presence of academic coaches, respected educators who work to helpimprove the teaching quality in the district.

“We had coaches in our elementary schools fora number of years,” Tim Gabauer, the district’sassistant superintendent said. He said duringthose years the district has seen improvement inthe forms of better test scores and positiveteacher feedback.

In the upcoming school year, the district will increase the presence of coaches to ten full-time coaches. Most of the coaches specialize in either reading or math anduntil now most coaches have only been hired part time.

“They become a direct resource for the classroom teachers,” Gabauer said. “They provide professional development on a daily basis.”

Along with helping teachers develop the best way to teach their students, the coaches also help administrators build school curriculums.

The George W. Tippins Youth Entreprenuer Regional Business Plan Competition is a showcase for young people to demonstrate their business ideas and talents. The program is sponsored by the Tippins Foundation and named in honor of one ofPittsburgh’s most successful entrepreneurs, inventors and financiers of the latter half of the twentieth century.

McKeesport students took 2nd and 1st place in this competition and they are headed to New York City. Pictured (from left to right): 2nd Place Winner Kristen Popp, KimberlyRose, 2010 Certified Entrepreneurship Teacher of the Year Winner, Patricia Scales, Acting Director of Career and Technology, and 1st place Winners Keena Simmons and Ryah Gadsen.

McKeesport Academic Coaches

E Youth@wardsE Youth@wards


For more information on E Youth, visit http://www.eyouthamerica.org/

36 IN McKeesport

As a seventh grade student in the McKeesport Area School Districtin the 1970s, Kimberly Moore joined the McKeesport school musical, then open to both middle school and high school students.Through working under director Jane Vranish and producer Robert Luketic for six years, Moore developed a love for acting and musical theater.This love turned into a lifelong passion and after finishing

college with a degree in theater and vocal performance Moorelooked to teach student actors like her childhood role modelsVranish and Luketic taught her when she was an aspiring performer.Back then, Moore was just a small part of the then growing

tradition of McKeesport Area High School Musicals. But nowMoore has returned to McKeesport to follow directly in the footsteps of her childhood teacher, Vranish. Moore has directed 10 of the last 13 musicals along with producer Beth Murphy andthinks that she has done her best to continue a storied tradition.“I am always very proud of the productions we put on,”

Moore said.Vranish, who worked on 25 musicals and directed,

choreographed, and conducted 12 of them, said the tradition of great musicals at McKeesport started in the 1950s. It grew under her and Luketic in the 1970s and 80s and is continuing under Moore and Murphy. “We had people come from Florida and out of state to come

back, just to see the musicals,” Vranish said. “We wanted to put on the best musical we possibly could.”As someone with a personal knowledge of the standards the

musicals are held to, Moore understood what she was up againstwhen she began directing the shows in 1998.“There was a lot of pressure to keep things up to that standard,”

Moore said. “It was terrible pressure.”So far Moore and Murphy haven’t disappointed their community

or their predecessors. As one of the judges for the Kelly Awards, awards given out

by the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera to the top high school musicalsin the greater Pittsburgh area, Vranish is now required to look at McKeesport’s musicals through impartial eyes. Even without rosetinted glasses, Vranish still thinks McKeesport’s shows were and aretop of the line.“I can honestly say we could have been a contender,”

Vranish said about her own productions which preceded the award’s existence. Now that the awards do exist, she has proof toback up her pride in her hometown plays. “They’ve been nominated for a lot of awards,” she said.While not an official judge, Anne Marie Nucci agrees that the

standards of the McKeesport musicals has been upheld since shewas the head of costume design under Vranish and Luketic.

“When the tradition continued I was thrilled,” Nucci said. “The play this year was wonderful.”This year’s play has received a nomination for best costume

design with the performance of “The Wizard of Oz” last April. Inthe past the plays have received nominations for Best Scenic Designin 2009; Best Supporting Actor, Best Scenic Design, Best Crew/Technical Execution, and Best Choreography in 2006; Best Actorand Best Actress in 2003; and won a special judge’s award in 2002.The evidence of success for McKeesport productions is bigger,

and older, than the Kelly Awards. Like most historically significantprograms McKeesport is not without its historically significantalumni. When the school’s tradition was just beginning, its most famous

member, Tony and Emmy Award nominee Grover Dale, was honing his craft. Vranish said that Dale came back to McKeesport during her time

as director and after watching one of her shows said the play“looked like a $250,000 dollar production.”Moore thinks the success of the past and recent musicals is

because of the effort and skill of not one person but an entire group. “We have a phenomenal team,” Moore said. “Both back then and

now it’s always been a team effort.”Moore and Vranish both said that watching their respective

shows come together in front of an audience is a rewarding experience; Vranish even compared it to opening a show onBroadway. They both also said, however, that teaching their students and seeing them develop is what the history ofMcKeesport musicals is really about.“My favorite part of the process was leading up to it,” Vranish

said. “What I love about the students in McKeesport is they weregrounded in reality.”“I’m a firm believer that participating in the musicals gave

students a confidence that they otherwise wouldn’t have had.”There is no better example to support Vranish’s believe about

confidence than Moore herself. “If I hadn’t had the support and the backing that I had,

I wouldn’t have been able to get up on that stage,” Moore said. “I’d like to carry on that same tradition with the kids.”Moore has taken conscious steps to make sure that the musicals

are about the students and not the faculty. After a few years of theshows ending with the students give her and Murphy flowers, thetwo decided to ban the practice. Not because they didn’t appreciatethe gesture but because it made them, and not the students, the center of attention.“I told them ‘the last applause is yours,’” Moore said.After many years away from musical theater, Nucci agrees that

what really stands out about McKeesport’s musicals is the effort ofthe students.“The kids were very hard working, as well as the staff.” Nucci

said. “They gave it their all.”

State of the(Performing)ArtsIn the McKeesport Area School District


38 IN McKeesport

McKeesport Area School District and theBeginning with Books Center for Early Literacyare joining together in a program that promotesearly literacy. This is a program that encourages and

supports families to engage in early reading and other literacy activities. It will provide aseries of free, informal parent workshops inwhich the group learns about reading to children, early literacy, and quality age appropriate children’s books. The program will help parents become more skilled and confident in reading to their children. It will encourage dailyreading aloud and regular visits to the library. It will also stimulate positive parent-child interaction as well as children’sliteracy development. Beginning with Books has received a grant from the Heinz

Endowments to offer these workshops. Each workshop will provide a certified facilitator to lead each session. A variety of resources will be provided at each session that parents will be able to use with their children at home.

The event to kick-off the program is Stories in the Park. This program is for children ages 0through 9 and their families. Stories in the Parkwill take place Saturday, August 21, 2010 from9:00-12 (noon) near Pavilion #7 in Renzie Park.McKeesport Area School District and Beginningwith Books will co-host the event along with theMcKeesport High School Child DevelopmentDepartment, Carnegie Library of McKeesport,the Family Center, and the Altrusa Club. Five stories have been selected to be readthroughout the morning along with songs and

activities to enhance the event. The McKeesport High SchoolGraphics Arts Department and the Building ConstructionDepartment designed and built the characters that will line the path throughout the story walk. The stories are certain tocapture the imagination of the children in attendance. This collaboration gives evidence of McKeesport Area School

District’s commitment to student achievement starting with thevery youngest of children in promoting literacy by raising readersin our community. With this strong foundation, all of our childrenwill have the potential to be successful throughout their lives.

A new literacy program gets McKeesport students reading early and often

Most learning that goes on in a high school happens in theclassroom. But outside, hands-on learning can give studentsvaluable learning experiences that a classroom cannot provide.The Administrative Academy program at the McKeesport AreaHigh School is focused on giving students an opportunity togain real world experience. The program, new this school year, took 20 juniors from

the school on once a month trips to professional locations. At these locations the students were taught life situations that complemented what they had learned in class.Dr. Timothy Gabauer, Assistant Superintendent, said

the program was intended to make math and science more relevant to students. He also said that the district is trying to find ways to increase their standardized test scoresand that math and science have been two major focus points.

“We tried to look at where we need the most work,”Gabauer said. “How to get the most bang for our buck.” This year’s program was based on partnerships with the

following professional organizations: PNC Bank, Heinz Field,Axis Architecture, Allegheny Intermediate Unit, and thePittsburgh Supercomputing Center. Each of these organizationshelped plan lessons that were related to their organization, represented real world scenarios, and fit around the academic goals for the students.Gabauer said the lessons varied from personal budgeting

at PNC Bank to calculating angles of pursuit on a football field when they visited Heinz Field.

In addition to Heinz Field and PNC Bank, the students alsowent to the Carnegie Science Center through the IntermediateUnit and visited the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center wherethey learned about complex computer simulations. From Gabauer’s perspective, the program was successful

in capturing the attention of its students. “I think initially they were hesitant,” Gabauer said. “But

as time went on they were hooked almost immediately.”Apparently the students weren’t the only ones who

were hooked. Gabauer said he and the other eight schooladministrators who went on the trips ended up learning from their partnership members as well. “We were learning with them,” Gabauer said. The ultimate goal for the program was to help its students

learn and be interested in math and science but it also had an added benefit. Through the various trips, the students and faculty worked together and formed stronger bonds than before.“I can tell you by the end, the relationships were

way different. It became a family,” Gabauer said.The plan for this program in the future is to continue in

the upcoming years. The district also hopes that the studentswho participated this year will come back to help, mentor and encourage next year’s juniors who will be chosen at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year.


40 IN McKeesport

PROMMEMORIES


Military Career DayMcKeesport High School hosted a Special MilitaryCareer Day held in May. Members of the Army andMarine Corps brought in specialized equipmentincluding a helicopter, hummers, equipment, and uniforms. Students also had the opportunity to discuss their career plans and ask any questionsthey had with the servicemen.

U.S. ArmyNathan HamanShakera JohnsonRoss Schank

U.S. NavyJared Kercell

Khalil ArmstrongStara Burton

Army National GuardKayla Hansen

U.S. Air ForceMarissa Donelson

U.S. MarinesJonathan PattersonSterling Meekins

42 IN McKeesport

Homes StillPriced Right in Pittsburgh’sSuburbsBy Jonathan Barnes

While other metropolitan areas of the U.S. saw sharp declines in home values as a result of the recession, Pittsburgh’shousing continued to gain value through the economic downturn.And although the federal tax incentives for home-buyers dry up at the end of April and most don’t expect them to be extended, it is still a very good time to buy a home in this region or even to sell one, regional real estate experts said.

The local housing market again is in a boom period and is much stronger than last year, said Howard “Hoddy” Hanna of O’Hara-based Howard Hanna Real Estate, which has 40 officesin Southwestern Pennsylvania.

The local housing market is up 34 percent from last March,Hanna said, noting that low interest rates and affordable housingcosts make it the ideal time for people interested in buying theirfirst home or for those looking to upgrade to a pricier home.

“Housing prices are a lot more realistic, in relation to people’s income [than in other areas],” Hanna said.

Comparing ValuesBecause there is a relative shortage of homes in the $250,000

and below first-time buyer segment, owners of homes in that range (and even up to around $300,000) might consider sellingtheir house if they think they would like to upgrade to a more expensive house, Hanna said. These home owners might get a better price than they think for their house, because their househappens to be in a bracket caught in a seller’s market.

Such lower-priced homes are selling very quickly right now because there are many buyers for them and not as much inventory, while higher-priced homes in Pittsburgh have fewerbuyers interested in them and can be bought for very competitiveprices, Hanna said.

“Single-family houses are tough to buy in that $250,000 and below price range,” Hanna said.

REAL ESTATEMcKeespor t

proudly announces Real Estate IN McKeesport -a comprehensive look at the McKeesport market.In this section, you’ll find interesting informationabout creating beautiful spaces to live in, choosinga real estate professional to help you buy or sell a home as well as other interesting facts about your community.


Hanna isn’t worried that the lack of tax incentives for home-buyers will have a detrimental effect on the local market. Overall in Southwestern Pennsylvania, we have an eight-month supply of housing inventory, he noted, versus an average inventory supply of seven to nine months.

“If our unemployment and interest rates remain the same, the lack of tax incentives won’t make a difference,” Hanna said.Making the right decision in buying a home in the first place is not a choice to be taken lightly, experts warned. Those lookingto buy a home first must thoroughly assess their financial situation. Knowing whether they can afford to buy a home, or whether they should try to do so at this time, is at the crux of a home-buying decision.

Considering one’s current credit status and one’s budget are a good place to start in determining whether it is the right time to buy a house, said Debra Lorenzato Fabian, a mortgagebanker with American Financial, located in Upper St. Clair.

The average Pittsburgh first-time home-buyer purchases a house in the $80,000 to $150,000 price range. In the region, that price range will buy a lot of house, even in more affluentneighborhoods such as Mt. Lebanon, which has homes priced as low as $90,000 or as high as $2.2 million, Fabian said. Thesedays, she is writing more Federal Housing Authority loans than anything else, she said.

Because Federal Housing Authority mortgages require just a 3½ percent down-payment, more people are applying for them these days. That 3½ percent down-payment can even be a gift from a relative or friend. But there are limits on theamount of the loan in this program, though, which caps out mortgages at $327,500.

By comparison, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require a 5 percent down-payment on the home. That down-payment must be a prospectivehome-buyer’s own money. Even so, realestate experts said the investment in a homein this region is one that will likely slowlygain in value over the years.

“This market is so conservative and always has been, and it benefitted us through thishousing downturn, whichreally didn’t affect us,”Fabian said.

Overcoming PerceptionsInventory in the $300,000

to $600,000 housing segment is still plentiful and not at all tight, said Steve Fink, marketingdirector for Paragon Homes, a Robinson-based custom homebuilder that constructs homesranging in price from $200,000 to $2 million.

“Pittsburgh has always been a good place to be and a solid market,” Fink said. “Our biggest challenge was the perception that it wasn’t a good time to buy a home.”

That view has changed among most people and more buyers are looking at homes these days. Those house searches are especially focused on added values, such as energy-efficient features in homes.

“Many people are looking for more energy-efficient homes,with green features built into them. They also are looking forhomes that fit their lifestyle,” Fink said. “There is a trend towardsmaller homes, with less extravagant designs.”

Many of those energy-efficient features are available in all of the houses that Paragon Homes builds, Fink said. Using such features properly is important, he noted. Having the correct “R” value in insulating a home—and having the right R-value in the proper places—is essential to ensuring a house’s energy efficiency.

“Picking the right builder is important when considering building an energy efficient home,” Fink said, adding that allbuilders don’t have the same sound building practices.

Mt. Lebanon-based Prudential Preferred realty agent MonaColichie said that while inventory in the mid-priced range is nottight, in some areas such as in Mt. Lebanon, inventory is low.Competition between buyers is especially tough in the first-timehome-buyer’s price range, she said.

“These days, it’s a hot market for sales. My agents are incredibly busy,” Colichie said. “There are now often multiple bids [placed by buyers] on a property.”

Nonetheless, deals are available, Colichie said. Foreclosures can sometimes be a good deal for a first-time home-buyer,

she said.

“Foreclosures are part of the business, like it or not,” Hanna said. “In the past, we never had the abundance of foreclosures that we do now.”

In addition to potential bargains to be found in some foreclosed homes,short sales of homes also are a possibleoption for some

buyers, Hanna said.Short sales are whena home owner sellsthe home for lessthan the amountowed on the mortgage and the bank takes a loss on the sale.


Adding Curb Appeal Can Makea Home STAND OUT Spring and summer are a gardener’s time of year, when pruning,

cleaning, planting and maintenance of a landscape are most labor-intensive.For green-thumbed folks the work is a loving labor, though feeling alonewon’t bring success when the task is enhancing a landscape in a smart way.Figuring out how to make a home’s frontage “pop” can be a task best

left to professionals, but for the savvy homeowner, a few good tips can make a noticeable difference. Whether it is a front yard’s harder features, its plants or its overall design, adding curb appeal often comes down tobringing something of interest to the space to make it stand apart from theothers around it.To achieve outstanding curb appeal, homeowners should take a second

look at how their front yards are functioning, experts throughout Pittsburgh’ssuburbs recommend. Are the yard’s design elements working harmoniouslytogether, so aspects of the home’s construction and particulars of its landscape are given correct exposure? If not, things probably should change,but how?Asking and answering such questions can help a homeowner to enhance

their property’s frontage, but it also can open them to the possibility of othernotions for improving their yard. Such ideas can go far in helping to make ahome the property that neighbors stop and tarry in front of, admiring its contours and colors.

Water or Stone?Making a space less linear is one place to start when redesigning a

front yard, said Jeff Blunkosky, chief operations officer of McDonald-basedPittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes. For example, a straight concrete walkway leading to the home could be replaced with a curved walkway composed of paving stones.“Adding an earth tone hardscape can bring everything together,”

Blunkosky said, noting that some manufactured pavers are stronger than many driveways. Because of this, some homeowners are choosing to replace their driveways with pavers, he noted. While concrete contractors will give up to a 1-year warranty on their work, manufactured pavers can last decades, Blunkosky said.When planning a major change to a front yard’s hardscape such

as a new walkway, choosing the right color is essential. A new walkwayshould be comprised of a material with a color that is complementary to the house.“A red brick house doesn’t need a red brick walkway. You want to use

a brown paver,” Blunkosky said. “You always want to use a secondary color, not the main color… Using the main color for a hardscape can be overwhelming [to the eye].”Adding stones to incorporate a feeling of the natural landscape in

the front yard also can add spice to the space. Incorporating some sort ofrocks into the yard’s flowerbeds, be it a grouping of boulders at the front of the lot or an edging of colored rocks in the flowerbeds, also helps to add interest.

“We incorporate a little rock work with the flowerbeds, to complement the plants and the colors in the house and hardscape,” Blunkosky said.Avoiding straight lines in other hardscape features, such as retaining

walls, can be a smart idea, too. Replacing a tired straight retaining wall witha new colorful wall with a curved edge can make the yard more interesting.The cost of such improvements isn’t always small. Paver walkways

can run from $16 to $22 per square foot (depending upon the type of paver,placement of the walkway and the size of the walkway), while concrete walkways made of exposed aggregate or made of stamped concrete runabout the same price.Blunkosky isn’t a big fan of stamped concrete. “Why do they stamp

concrete? To make it look like a superior product,” he said.

Creating Focal PointsPeople who aren’t trained in landscaping or who didn’t grow up

gardening can become overwhelmed when trying to decide what to do with a worn-out looking landscape. Sometimes, less is more—that is, adding just one more design element could make a noticeable difference. Some homeowners are using topiaries more often these days to add such interest, said Randy Soergel, who along with his wife Beth co-owns Soergel’s Orchards Garden Center in Franklin Park.“You don’t put [the topiary] in and forget about it,” Soergel said, adding

that two rules apply to landscaping. “Don’t plant vegetation where therewon’t be good drainage. And if a plant dries out just once, it’s done.”Until a plant’s roots can find their own water, regularly watering it

is essential. Some plants take up to two years to establish their roots,Soergel said.Most homeowners are rejuvenating their yards at this time of year,

rather than planting new landscapes altogether. An older-looking landscapecan be spruced up by pruning some plants such as overgrown bushes nearthe home, and by removing other plants that are too large and out of proportion with the space.Incorporating one focal point for the yard, with a topiary, a Japanese

maple tree, a sitting area, a small pond or even a particular stone or groundcover, can give the space more energy. Since the front yard is the first part of a home, creating interest is important to making the space inviting. Caring for the plants also is important in creating a beautifullandscape, but some homeowners are afraid to prune plants because they fear they’ll kill the plant, Soergel said. “We try to teach people how to maintain the landscaping they have, including when and how to prune,”Soergel said.The garden center offers free classes to people interested in learning

more about how to maintain their yards. At 7 p.m. every Tuesday night inApril and May, Soergel’s Orchards Garden Center hosts a do it yourself class teaching about landscaping and yard care. Those interested in attending a class are asked to register by calling the garden center at724.935.2090, or emailing [email protected].


By Jonathan Barnes


STAND OUT Curve AppealOne of the most prominent trends in

re-imagining front yards with existing landscapes is changing the yard’s contours. Many homeowners are replacing their straightconcrete paver and wood-tie walls with coloredconcrete block walls that are laid down withoutmortar and are pretty easy to install, said TonyVerrico, owner of Verrico Landscape Supply inPenn Hills. The local supply yard carries 10 huesof the Versa-Lok wall material, as well as different types of pavers to enhance a yard.The walls can last up to 40 years, Verrico said.

“We’re seeing a lot of concrete driveways beingremoved and replaced with pavers,” he said.Straight retaining walls are being replaced

with curved walls, which sometimes have aplanter incorporated into them at the front of theyard, Verrico said, adding that he is seeing morestraight steps replaced by new curved steps as away to make the yard more interesting.Making simple improvements to a yard, such

as adding a tree, can make a big impact, Verricosaid. Trees such as dogwoods and other floweringornamentals, are good choices to consider asaccent plantings. Planting hardy bushes such asboxwoods also can bring more definition to afront yard space, he said.

People are talking these days about whether or not banks are actually lending money.The housing market in Pittsburgh is still a fairly strong one and people are trying to takeadvantage of programs out there to give first home buyers tax credits of up to 10% of thetotal selling price of the house, up to $8,000. Or, if you currently own a home but want tobuy another home that would now be your primary residence, you could also receive atax credit of up to $6,500. And, of course, people are scrambling to take advantage of thehigh foreclosure market right now. So, with that in mind, they are wondering, “Can Iqualify for a mortgage?” Sally Minnock, Home Mortgage Consultant for First Commonwealth Home Mortgage,

a Joint Venture with Wells Fargo Bank and First Commonwealth Bank, stated that, “Yes,banks are lending, however, the process has become a lot stricter in that there is a lotmore documentation and paperwork necessary to verify everything before the loan appli-cation is completed and reviewed. The days of obtaining ‘limited documented loans’ areover. They don’t exist anymore. Now, everything has to be documented for proof. We arenow underwriting the way it was done thirty years ago.” According to Ms. Minnock, interest rates are still determined based on credit scoring.

You can get a great interest rate with a credit score of 740. However, if your credit scoreis below 740 your rate will likely increase with a conventional loan. However, if you areapplying for a FHA loan, having a credit score in the 620s will enable you to still qualifyfor a loan, although 3.5% of the selling price of the house is still needed on a FHA loanas a down payment. When you talk to your mortgage consultant for the first time, theywill most likely punch in to an automated system your name, address, social securitynumber and credit score to determine what interest rate you’d be eligible for. For first time home buyers, this entire process can be confusing. However, Ms.

Minnock suggests working with your real estate agent and a mortgage consultant to help guide you through the process. They can look at whether or not you are ready tobuy a house based on many factors, including your income, current financial situation,and your credit score. They will need a lot of personal information to be able to guide youeffectively, but it is worth doing a lot of the work upfront before you start searching for ahouse. Finding all of the necessary paperwork that you will need during the final applica-tion process where the documentation is absolutely necessary, will help you avoid put-ting yourself in a stressful buying situation. Plus, you will know exactly what you qualifyfor or what you will need to do to get to the point of actually getting the loan. Obtaininga loan and your dream house is not impossible if you are willing to be patient, organizedand go through the steps to qualify before you start searching for the perfect home.


CanIQualify foraMortgage?By Karen Ferrieri

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S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

This little cat’s story is a great example of how alittle love goes a long, long way. Precious wasinitially found as a stray and rescued off thestreets by a kind gentleman who gave her a

wonderful loving home. For years she lived happily with hernew family and feline roommate, until her owner became ill.With no one else to care for them, he sadly brought thesedear cats to Animal Friends.

Precious did not have an easy adjustment. She missedher owner miserably and no matter how much kindness thestaff and volunteers showed her, this sad little cat would notlet anyone near her. She was just not a happy cat. But weknew that there was wonderful cat hiding in that sad littleface. And we were right! Precious went home with a fosterfamily who just gave her a little love and within days we saw

the sweet gentlepersonality we knewwas hiding under thesadness.

Today, this sweetlittle cat will come upto you and show heraffection by rubbing against you andgiving you long deep purrs. She is great with using both thescratching post and litterbox and loves to spend her dayswatching everything going on outside the window. She evengets along with the family dog! All it took was a little bit oflove. Please contact Animal Friends to set up a meet andgreet with Precious. Call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002.

Adopt a Pet: Precious

on th

e go...


Check out these rules that keep you safe when online!� NEVER give out your name, address, phone

or the school you attend to anyone onlinewithout your parent’s permission.

� Don’t enter contests without asking Mom or Dad first.

� If someone sends you something that makes you feel uncomfortable, let your parents and teachers know.NEVER respond to it yourself.

� NEVER agree to meet someone you’ve met online.

� NEVER send a person your picturewithout your parent’s permission.

� Only your parents should know your internet passwords.

What did the computer do atlunchtime?Had a byte!

Surfing the ‘Net

Top Tech Words You Should Know!

1. Download - To download a file is to get it from someone else’s computer, over a network, and save it on your own computer, CD, or memory dvice. Example: Let’s download the photo of GeorgeWashington for the history project.

2. Pixel - A pixel is a tiny dot of light on the monitor. It is the the smallestpart of every image you see on thecomputer monitor. Example: Howmany pixels does that photo have in it?

3. Modem - A device that links a computer to the internet through atelephone line, or a DSL or cable connection. Example: Our modemneeds to be replaced. Our computer is downloading this photo slowly!

4. Browser - A software program thatlets you explore the internet to let youdiscover things like graphics, sound,movies, games, and more. Example:Open a browser and search forGeorge Washington for your Presidentof the United States history project.

Computers are Fun!Find each of these words in this puzzle.

48 IN McKeesport

Arc Ministry1501 Union Avenue

Bethlehem Baptist Church716 Walnut Street

Beulah Park United Methodist ChurchGrandview Avenue

Bryn Mawr Church of Christ2901 State Street

Calvary United Methodist Church1915 Bailey Avenue

Central Presbyterian Church1510 Versailles Avenue

Christ Temple AME Church937 Rose Street

Christ United Methodist Churchof North Huntingdon Twnshp2800 Coulter Road

Church of Christ947 Franklin Street

Church of The Good SamaritanSouthern Street

Coulter Road Baptist Church225 Coulter Road

Creative Ministries Berachah1422 Evans Avenue

Evangelical CongregationalChurchWalnut Street

Faith Lutheran Church1656 Lincoln Way

First Christian Church1025 McCleary Street

First Church of Christ Scientist1028 Fawcett Avenue

First Church of the Open Bible719 Union Avenue

First Evangelical Free Church4001 University Drive

First Spiritualist Church809 Locust Street

First United Methodist Church of McKeesportVersailles Avenue

Gemilas Chesed Synagogue1400 Summit Street

Glassport Assembly of GodChurch210 5th Avenue

Gospel Hall AssemblyPrescott Street

Greek Orthodox Church Annunciation1128 Summitt Street

Greenock Methodist Church1213 Greenock Buena Vista Road

Highland Grove United Methodist Church2909 Highland Avenue

Holy Family Polish NationalCatholic1921 Eden Park Boulevard

Hope United Methodist Church2401 Jenny Lind Street

Immanuel U P Church525 Market Street

Kephart United Methodist Church906 Fawcett Avenue

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness3535 Foster Road

Liberty Presbyterian ChurchElizabeth Street

McKeesport Alliance Church938 Summitt Street

McKeesport Church of God Mission1301 Soles Street

Mount Vernon CommunityPresbyterian Church2200 Buena Vista Road

New Jerusalem Holiness Church In Duquesne2130 Lewis Street

Park Baptist Church749 Center Street

Port Vue United Methodist Church1565 Washington Boulevard

Rehoboth Apostolic Church1910 Grandview Avenue

Riverview Baptist Church General Conference1911 Soles Street

Saint Angela Merici1640 Fawcett Avenue

Saint John The Baptist Ukrainian Church1907 Eden Park Boulevard

Saint Johns Evangelical Lutheran Church329 9th Street

Saint Mark Parish1101 Romine Avenue

Saint Martin Deporres Parish704 Market StreetSaint Mary Czestochowa2515 Versailles Avenue

Saint Marys Russian Orthodox Church330 Shaw Avenue

Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church410 6th Street

Saint Patrick Church310 32nd Street

Saint Paul AME Church1350 Locust Street

Saint Plus2911 Versailles Avenue

Saint Sava Church Hall901 Hartman Street

Saint Stephens Episcopal Church220 8th Street

Sampsons Mills PresbyterianChurch1665 Lincoln Way

St. Denis Church Rectory5110 3rd Street

St. Joseph Rectory1125 Romine Avenue

St. Marys German Church414 Olive Street

St. Marys Romanian ByzantineRite Catholic Church318 26th Street

Temple B’Nai Israel Synagogue2025 Cypress Drive

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day SaintsFoyer Center Street

Voice of Vision OutreachMinistries Incorporated723 Walnut Street

Wesley United Methodist ChurchBroadway Avenue

West Side United MethodistChurch305 Atlantic Avenue

Zion Baptist Church1300 Locust Street

Don’t see your church listed? E-mail your information to:[email protected]. Listings are free and a servicefrom IN McKeesport AreaMagazine.


HOUSES OF WORSHIP

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Do you know someone who is serving in the armed forces from the McKeesport area?We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them in this magazine.Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to [email protected]

Help us recognize these fine men and women!

Uterine fibroids are a common condition, affecting approximately three out offour women. Although noncancerous, fibroids can sometimes cause symptomsthat include unusual periods and pelvic and back pain. If you have these symptoms,consult your doctor. If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, the Fibroid Treatment Center at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC will help youunderstand all the alternatives available. We were the first in the region to em-ploy a multidisciplinary approach that brings a number of experts together to de-termine the best treatment plan, including minimally invasive techniques. Ourboard-certified gynecologists, along with surgeons and radiologists, work withyour primary care physician to provide seamless care – as well as peace of mind.

Fibroids are common.Our approach to treating them is not.

To learn more, visit UPMCMagee.com or call 412-641-4435.

10_UPMC_68_MageeFibroids_InCommunity:Layout 1 6/15/10 11:00 AM Page 1

Do you know someone who is serving in the armed forces from the McKeesport area?We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them in this magazine.Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to [email protected]

Help us recognize these fine men and women!

603 East McMurray Road I McMurray, PA 15317724.942.0940 I www.incommunitymagazines.com

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Keepingour communities safe andhealthy.

• Adamsburg Rescue 14

• Baldwin EMS

• Brentwood EMS

• Clairton Fire Department EMS

• Duquesne EMS

• Eastern Area Prehospital Services

• Elizabeth Township Area EMS

• Fire Department of North Versailles EMS

• Guardian Angel EMS

• Jefferson Hills Area EMS

• McKeesport Ambulance Rescue

• Medical Rescue Team South Authority

• Munhall Area Prehospital Services

• North Huntingdon Rescue 8

• Penn Township Rescue 6

• Pitcairn EMS

• Priority One EMS

• PRISM Health Services

• Rostraver West Newton Emergency Services

• Sewickley Township EMS

• Stat MedEvac

• Trafford EMS

• Transcare

• Tri-Community South EMS

• United Fire Rescue

• White Oak EMS

• Woodland Hills EMS

Please join us in honoring 27 local Emergency Medical Services teams for their past, present, and future commitment to bettering lives and communities.

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