in west allegheny

WINTER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Powder Puff Football GameRaises Money for Local Families

&Newbury – A Unique Place to Live and WorkResolve to Keep Your Resolutions This Year

Welcome to the premier issue of West Allegheny Magazine!You may be asking yourself, “What is this new magazine and why

am I getting it?” Allow me to answer that.I founded CommunityMagazines over a decade ago with the

belief that people want to read news about their community and thepeople who live and work there. They want positive, uplifting news and information about their municipalities and schools.We are supported entirely by advertising, not taxpayer dollars.

While we do offer school districts and municipalities the opportunity to purchase pages in our magazines, we give them rates that, in mostcases, are less than what they are paying to put out their ownnewsletters to constituents.We accept no advertising for alcohol, tobacco, or firearms. We

can guarantee that what you read in our pages will be family-oriented,upbeat, and something that you can be proud of. In fact, we encourageyou to submit your ideas for stories to our managing editor, MarybethJeffries, at [email protected]. What’s a goodstory? That depends on you! We routinely cover nonprofitorganizations and the good they do in the community. We coverfundraising events. We feature local houses of worship. We want toknow about the Boy or Girl Scout troop that’s working on a communityproject. We want to feature the team that makes WPIALs. We want to feature the team that is just starting out as a club sport. We’ve donefeatures on centenarians, librarians, and veterinarians. If you think hardenough, I bet that you can think of at least one person who’s making a difference in your community. That’s what we want to know about. I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with you, West Allegheny!

Wayne DollardPublisher

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll step away from thelist making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy theinformation we have compiled for this edition of West Allegheny.As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community.Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their

passion in all things “community.” As you are going through yourbusy days (and holiday parties) please don’t forget to let us knowabout any person or organization who you feel would be interestingfor us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are soinspired by our readers!The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow

from the West Allegheny community is amazing and awesome.From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope that your

holiday will be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy,and that you’ll be surrounded by the love and companionship ofthose who mean the most to you.

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

WINTER 2010

Every piece of theuniverse, even thetiniest little snowcrystal, matterssomehow. I have aplace in the pattern,and so do you.–TA BARON

IN West Allegheny is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing, encouragingand promoting the West Allegheny area and its

comprising municipalities by focusing on the talentsand gifts of the people who live and work here. Ourgoal is to provide readers with the most informativeand 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]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Jamie [email protected]

WRITERS

Jonathan BarnesKelli McElhinny

Pamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Bill IvinsCassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSusie Doak Tamara TylendaPati Ingold Tracey Wasilco

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.com

One Way Street Productions

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell David MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers

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

Beatriz Harrison Tara ReisJason Huffman Vincent Sabatini

Jessie Jones Michael SilvertConnie McDaniel RJ Vighetti

Brian McKee

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households 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

Spring Issue Deadline: 1/9

Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travelmore, or reduce stress, experts say that while ittakes time to develop a habit or behavior, theexpectation of changing that developed habitover night is basically unrealistic.Studies have shown that little over 10

percent of those engaging in New Year’sresolutions actually follow through with theirgoals. Success in achieving those goals stemsfrom taking baby steps, or realistic approachesto achievement. Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at

Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is amajor factor in people not following throughwith their workout routines.“Everyone should start a workout program

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

cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout. “Most people think

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

work the weights firstbefore cardio.”Pursuing a healthier

lifestyle is always a goodidea, and while manypeople make it their NewYear’s resolution to get backin shape, experts agree thatany health program shouldbe focused on progressive,attainable, and realisticgoals. However, it’s also a great idea not tooverindulge during theholidays in the first place. Gaining 10 pounds after

partying for a month,grazing cookies at the office

and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a loteasier than doing 30 minutes at the gymeveryday for two weeks to negate those calories.While it's a cliche, moderation is still the key toa balanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourselfa favor bypassing that cookie tray or secondglass of wine in the first place.

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’sresolutions actuallyfollow through with their goals.”

Resolve to Keep YourResolutionsThis Year

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

West Allegheny | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

4 West Allegheny

1271 Route 30P.O. Box WClinton, PA 15026Phone: 724.695.0500 Fax: 724.695.1700 [email protected]

AdministrationTownship ManagerGary Klingman724.695.0500 x244 [email protected]

Asst. TownshipManager/PlanningAdministratorChristopher Caruso724.695.0500 x248 [email protected]

Township Secretary/TreasurerCheryl Rinehart724.695.0500 [email protected]

Admin. Asst/PlanningSecretaryCynde Harris724.695.0500 [email protected]

Building InspectorRuss Collins724.695.0500 x250 [email protected]

Wage/LST Tax CollectorBarbara Coates724.695.0521 [email protected]

Real Estate Tax CollectorDorothy McCullough724.695.2995

Public Works DirectorJohn O’[email protected]

Municipal Authority ManagerJason [email protected]

District Magistrate Anthony Saveikis 724.695.2070

MeetingsBoard of SupervisorsCaucus Meeting - 1st Thursdayeach month, 7:00 p.m.

Regular Meeting - 2nd Wednesdayeach month, 7:00 p.m.

Workshop Meeting - 4thThursday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Planning CommissionInformation Meeting - 1stMonday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Regular Meeting - 4th Tuesdayeach month, 7:00 p.m.

Zoning Hearing Board3rd Monday each month, 7:00 p.m.

Public SafetyFindlay Township PoliceDepartment1271 Route #30, Clinton, Pennsylvania 15026Emergency Number: 724695.7777 OR 911Non-Emergency Number:724.695.1300

Imperial Volunteer FireDepartment115 Main Street Imperial, PA 15126Emergency Number: 724695.7777 or 911Non-Emergency Number:[email protected]

Valley Ambulance Authority3550 University BoulevardMoon Township, PA 15108412.262.2040

UtilitiesFindlay Township Municipal(Water) Authority 724.695.3108

Trash & Recycling - WasteManagement800.866.4460

LibraryWestern AlleghenyCommunity Library8042 Steubenville PikeOakdale, PA 15071Phone: 724.695.8150Fax: 724.695.2860

HoursMon: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Tue: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Wed: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Thu: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Fri: 10:00 - 4:00p.m.Sat: 9:00 - 4:00p.m.Sun: CLOSED

Findlay Township

400 North Branch RdOakdale, PA 15071Phone: 412.788.4888 or 724.693.9601Fax: 724.693.8132

AdministrationTownship Manager Mr. Robert T. [email protected]

Parks & Recreation Director Bob [email protected]; 412.788.4888, ext. 118

Director of CommunityDevelopment Mr. Brian Temple [email protected]; 412.788.4888,ext.107

Public Works Director Mr. Victor [email protected]

Real Estate Tax CollectionMr. Tom Falcioni724.693.9366

Earned Income Tax Collectionand Emergency & MunicipalServices TaxMr. Tom Falcioni724.693.9190

Building Code Official/CodeEnforcement Officer Mr. Mike [email protected] Phone: 724.693.3106;412.788.4888, ext. 106

Board of SupervisorsMr. Jim Morosetti, ChairmanMr. John Meyers, Vice-ChairmanMr. J. R. Mangan, Member

The Supervisors hold aWorkshop meeting the firstThursday of every month at 7:30 p.m., a GeneralSupervisors meeting thesecond Tuesday of every monthat 7:30 p.m., and a PayrollMeeting the fourth Tuesday ofevery month at 7:30 p.m. in theTownship Municipal Building.

Public SafetyNorth Fayette P.D.400 North Branch RoadOakdale, PA 15071Phone: 724.787.8900Fax: 724.693.9814Chief: Jeffrey Falconer

North Fayette Twp. VolunteerFire Dept.Station 1Business Office7678 Stuebenville PikeOakdale, PA 15071-9300Office: 412.787.2883 Fax: 412.787.3137

Station 28036 Steubenville Pike Imperial, PA 15126Office: 724.695.3727

NorthWest EMSStation 195 West Allegheny North FayetteMunicipal Complex 400 North Branch Road North Fayette, PANon-Emergency 412.331.2600

North Fayette


AdministrationMayor Ross Rohbeck, 405 Clinton Avenue ExtensionOakdale, PA 15071724.693.8382

Borough SolicitorVince Tucceri, Esq.Gaitens, Tucceri and Nicholas519 Court PlacePittsburgh, PA 15219412.391.6920

Public WorksBob Patterson6115 Noblestown RoadOakdale, PA 15071Phone: 724.693.9740Fax: 724.693.0100

Real Estate Tax CollectorDonna SwiderP.O. Box 222Oakdale, PA [email protected]

Borough SecretaryKelly Rohbeck6115 Noblestown RoadOakdale, PA 15071Phone: 724.693.9740Fax: [email protected]

CouncilHuck Gamble, Borough CouncilPresident1 Highland AvenueOakdale, PA 15071724.693.9906

Paul Hennemuth, BoroughCouncil Vice President110 Jade DriveOakdale, PA 15071724.693.9628

Keith Merlino, Councilman16 Vincennes AvenueOakdale, PA 15071724.693.2844

Tom Potts, Councilman305 Clinton AvenueOakdale, PA 15071

Bud Sturgeon, Councilman4050 Noblestown RoadOakdale, PA 15071724.693.2748

Public SafetyOakdale P.D.6115 Noblestown RoadOakdale, PA 15071724.693.9639724.693.0740 (Fax)Chief Dr. James J. Lauria

Oakdale Hose Company6111 Noblestown RoadOakdale, PA 15071Station: 724.693.9408 Fax: 724.693.0742 Emergency: 911

UtilitiesWater, Sewage, and TrashServicesThe Oakdale Borough 724.693.9740

Allegheny Power: 800.255.3443.

Columbia Gas: 888.460.4332

Comcast: 724.745.4734

Verizon: 800.660.2215

Oakdale

W.A.F.E.L - Western Area Friends to Enhance the Library We are pleased to welcome Lin and Ed Nalesnick as our newPresident and Vice-President.

About W.A.F.E.L

W.A.F.E.L., the library’s “Friends group” has helped to build andsupport the Library since 1989. The Friends have a commonconcern for the Library‘s active participation in the community.

How does W.A.F.E.L help?Supports the library through fund raising to augment the library‘s budget Provides cash prizes for poetry contest Provides funding for summer reading programs Contributes money and manpower for programs throughout the year

W.A.F.E.L MembershipNew members are always welcome Membership privilege includes early entry to the Used Book Sales Meetings are held at the library on the second Monday of eachmonth @ 7:00 p.m. Individual Membership $3.00 Family Membership $5.00

Just for Kids Story TimesBOOK BABIES

Book Babies is a 30 minute program designed for children from 6-24 months and their parent and caregiver. Fingerplays, songs,books and rhymes will help these children take their first stepstowards a love of reading that will last a lifetime!

Mondays 10:30-10:55a.m.

TODDLER TALES

Toddler Tales is a 45 minute storytime designed for children from 2-3 1/2 years old and their parent or caregiver. Children will enjoyfingerplays, stories, crafts and fun!

Mondays 11:30a.m.-12:15p.m.

PRE-K KAPERS

Pre-K Kapers is an hour long program designed to helppreschoolers become better prepared to face the challenges and excitement of Kindergarten.

Tuesdays 1:30 - 2:30p.m.

Bodies In MotionPreschoolers ages 2 and up are invited to join us as we wiggle,giggle, move and groove! We’ll have stories, music, dancing... evenparachuting! So put on your dancing shoes and head to the libraryfor some super silly fun!!!

Thursdays 1:30p.m.-2:15p.m.Check the Event Calendar for exact dates.

6 West Allegheny

WESTERN ALLEGHENY COMMUNITY LIBRARY HoursMon: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Tue: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Wed: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Thu: 10:00 - 8:00p.m.Fri: 10:00 - 4:00p.m.Sat: 9:00 - 4:00p.m.Sun: CLOSED

Location8042 Steubenville PikeOakdale, PA 15071

Phone: 724.695.8150Fax: 724.695.2860

westernalleghenylibrary.org


ADVERTISE HERE!

CALL [email protected]

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

e-mail information to: [email protected] or call 724.942.0940Mailing Address: P.O. Box 55Imperial, PA 15126 Phone: 724.695.3422

AdministrationSuperintendent John [email protected] 724.695.5211

Asst. Supt. Curriculum - Inst. Chris [email protected] 724.695.5204

Asst. Supt. Person - Student Svcs. William [email protected] 724.695.5216

Business Manager Jerry [email protected] 724.695.5212

Coordinator of Pupil Services Elaine [email protected] 724.695.5221

CommunicationsCoordinator Carol [email protected] 724.695.5274

School BoardDebbie Mirich (president) Patrick Konieczny (vice president) Eugene Sciulli Dr. Anne BolindTracy Kosis John Scott Robert OstranderEd FauxRonald Pasic

SchoolsWest Allegheny High School205 West Allegheny RoadImperial, PA 15126Call Off: 724.695.1545Phone: 724.695.7368Fax: 724.695.8690Principal: Daniel Smith

West Allegheny Middle School207 West Allegheny RoadImperial, PA 15126Call Off: 724.695.1583Phone: 724.695.8979Fax: 724.695.8211Principal: Mr. Richard Smith

Donaldson Elementary School600 Donaldson RoadOakdale, PA 15071Call Off: 724.213.1013Phone: 724.213.1010Fax: 724.213.1002Principal: Patricia Nolan

McKee Elementary School1501 Oakdale RoadOakdale, PA 15071Call Off: 724.695.5264Phone: 724.693.8451Fax: 724.693.0924Principal: Thomas Orr

Wilson Elementary School100 Bruno LaneImperial, PA 15126Phone: 724.695.3300Call-Off Number: 724.695.1548Fax: 724.695.0610Principal: Mrs. Kathleen Sites

West Allegheny School District

8 West Allegheny

10 West Allegheny

12 West Allegheny

REAL ESTATEIN West Allegheny

If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with thereturn of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home.January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale,

said Lori Crandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker.“January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning of the

spring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people getbored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to listin the spring shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a legup on the spring market before it gets saturated.”While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you

can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foottraffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing.“The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start

out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really importantthat sellers go online themselves and look at the differences betweenbrokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popularwebsite for consumers.” Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said

that some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a footof snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in thewinter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny.

“During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst.Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should makethose photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yardlooks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring, but if wehave the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back whocan’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.”

Want toList yourhome?January is the

perfect month

to do it!Other things that the winter provides advantages for include an

opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether thehome heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address.“There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air

conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a homewarranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warrantyand can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”

It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured

that your house will start getting online attention.

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

winter weather – but there are some things that are just good sense.

• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer canget thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start-up times until your engine is properlylubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanicabout changing viscosity for the winter months.

• Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sureyour windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry anextra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container ofwiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that youhave a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights,ice scrapers and extra gloves.

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

Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. You can’t eliminate bad driving, however, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

D O N ’ T L E T

Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions

A lot of people think that

getting ready for winter

simply means an annual

furnace check, turning off and

draining outside faucets, and

some shrink wrap over their

windows. However, if you don’t

winterize your vehicle, you may

be stuck in that comfy living

room waiting for a ride to

come pick you up.

WinterSlow You Down –


22 West Allegheny

Fourth grade students at West Allegheny's McKee

Elementary School will be kicking off their "300 Drums" project on Friday, October 22, 2010, 1:45-2:45 p.m. with an assembly on the history of Native American drums and the importance of drums in the Native American culture. Elementary art teachers Claire March and Debbie Turici will

introduce the students to the project in conjunction with a unit of study on sound included in the district science curriculum.Subsequent lessons on October 29 through November 5 at McKee

will focus on demonstrating the role of sound in music. For example,students will create drums that mimic various sound waves and learnabout the health and wellness of self-expression through the use ofdrums in music and art. Students will also experience sound waves

via the Midi board and Mac computer. Students will use electronic media like flip cameras to document

their studies. The video segments will be edited, titled, and aligned to music through the use of the software available on a Mac computer.The final video will be posted on You Tube so that schools across theworld can benefit from observing these interdisciplinary activities. Funded by a $15,000 Grable Foundation STEAM (Science,

Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Education Grant,this project will also be integrated into the fourth-grade curriculum at Donaldson and Wilson elementary schools later this fall. Grantrecipients are required to collaborate with a community organizationto integrate arts and technology across the academic disciplines.Therefore, the district will work on the study in conjunction withconsultants from the Mesa Creative Art Center of Burgettstown.

The National Honor Society (NHS) sponsored its 26th annualWest Allegheny High School junior/senior girls' powder pufffootball game on November 11. The seniors beat their youngercompetitors by a score of 32-6. The event, which is held as afundraiser to benefit the NHS Christmas Families Charity, was held at West Allegheny’s Joe P. DeMichela Stadium.

The NHS Christmas Families Charity identifies and helps familiesin need. It assists these families by using the profits from the powder-puff event and having students assemble food baskets and purchase gifts

for the children of those families. “Last year we were able to buy

presents and food for the families of24 children,” says Suzanne Lamber,faculty advisor for the NHS. Oncethe money is collected through theticket sales, members of the NHSpurchase gifts that the children and teens want. “Once the gifts are purchased, the NHS has a wrapping party where we spend time wrapping the gifts,”says Lambert.

This year’s event raised a totalof $3,140 for the charity. Presentswill be distributed to the familiesin mid-December.

Powder Pufffootball GameRAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL FAMILIES

West Allegheny Fourth GradersMake Drums To Study Sound

24 West Allegheny

28 West Allegheny

mericans filing federal returns canexpect year-end tax planning to be

a bit more complicated this time aroundbecause we don't know what the tax rateswill be for 2011 just yet. The currentrates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001, are due to expire on Dec 31 of this year. So when the new rates get passed,

taxpayers won't have a whole lot of timeto plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vicepresident at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared.“For this year,” said Marzina, “it’s very

important that people be paying attentionto what happens in the political spectrumin terms of tax rates for the new year andto make sure you have your advisers linedup so when rates are set, you don’t wait.”Each year, an individual is allowed

to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fillout a gift tax return, which goes againstthe unified credit amount that they areallowed to give at their death. Right now,this is not determined.

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

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

proposal to allow rates to expire andreturn to 2009’s rate, the “step-up” inbasis will return. Another proposal is to have most of the current brackets staybut raise tax rates of the highest bracket,and taxes on dividends and capital gainsjump from 15% to 20%. The Republicanproposal is to extend current tax rates for a period of 2 years and cap dividendsand capital gains at 15%.

Marzina says that the question manypeople are asking is this: If you haveassets that have significant capital gains

built in, should you accelerate taxes andsell those assets in 2010 to ensure 15%rate, instead of waiting for 2011 andhaving the rate jump to 20%?The problem here is that taxpayers

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

G o o d T i d i n g s f o r t h e G r e a t e s tG e n e r a t i o n

b y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in West Allegheny

A

Tax Planning for The New Year

28 West Allegheny

ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away

the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the

jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety.

According to the National Institute of Health, more than

1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year.

It’s the number one cause of injury related deaths.

So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving

to Florida is out of the question), it’s a good idea to review

some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter.

• Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get

a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled

shoes have the worst traction in winter weather.

• Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks

and walkways.

• Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever

you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when

you feel you may need it.

• If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees

and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.

And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas

around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for

Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or

another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, as a family

member or neighbor to help you.

Senior Agenciesb y J a m i e W a r d

W

How to PreventInjury this Winter


Transportation For Older AdultsThere are several agencies that offer free or reduced-rate transportation services to individuals who qualify:

Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP)1.888.547.6287Provides non-emergency medical transportationto residents of Allegheny County who have avalid Pennsylvania Department of Public WelfareMedical Assistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for Senior CitizensThe Port Authority allows Allegheny Countyresidents, 65 years of age and older, to ride freeon local public transportation (buses, trolleysand rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtainidentification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportationproviders. Call 412.442.2000 for the locationnearest to you.

Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments,grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and olderwho live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation,shared-ride transportation provided throughoutPort Authority’s service area. It serves primarilysenior citizens and persons with disabilities.There are no restrictions on the purpose ornumber of trips which may be taken by riders,except that riders are required to share theirvehicle with others traveling in the samedirection and at the same time.

Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needsof our community’s older adults?We would be happy to post your contact information.Contact [email protected] your center’s name and phone number.

Oakdale Senior Resource Center of LifeSpan

104 Seminary Road Oakdale, PA 15071 Phone: 724.693.8540 Fax: 724.693.2780

Hours of Operation:9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. M–F Site Coordinator: Paul Belakemail: [email protected]

30 West Allegheny

ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day.And he’s got the stories to prove it.“When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs,

whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to aSenior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with FamilyServices of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach.“I used to be really active and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains,

“but my eyes became gradually worse and now I don’t see.”Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week

and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company.“Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere Ishouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh.Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During

their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives andshare advice.“It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient,

but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so muchout of it, and I come home feeling great.”Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw

an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that givesher meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says ofher experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives todoctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokesbut quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.”Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking for

volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little asan hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help withgrocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling andyard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could usesome assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol,families and groups are also welcome.To learn more or become a volunteer, visit

www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071.“It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers, “I can’t say

enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant forstorytelling, though, he probably could.

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined.

A


32 West Allegheny


Tips to Protect your Family from Carbon Monoxide PoisoningPoorly Maintained or Malfunctioning Heating Systems Are Often to Blame

As another heating season begins, the Allegheny CountyHealth Department is joining with the Carbon MonoxideAwareness Coalition of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County toremind residents about the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas

that is the by-product of incomplete combustion of a fuel.Hundreds die each year nationwide from accidental carbonmonoxide poisoning, but most deaths could be preventedthrough greater awareness and education.Thirty-one accidental poisonings were reported countywide

during last year’s heating season, October 1 through May 31.Twenty-four poisonings, including three deaths, wereassociated with heating systems or vehicles left running in enclosed spaces. Common sources of carbon monoxide are a malfunctioning

or incorrectly vented furnace, hot water heater, space heater,fireplace, cooking stove or other type of fuel-burning equipment.Misusing a charcoal grill or a cooking stove to warm a house

and leaving a car, van or truck running in an attached or integralgarage are other possible carbon monoxide sources.To prevent carbon monoxide problems, furnaces and

fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected before each heatingseason. Carbon monoxide home alarms can help as well, but arenot foolproof and no substitute for regular furnace maintenance.

Carbon monoxide poisoning may include any of the following symptoms: headaches,dizziness, weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat,loss of hearing, blurry vision, vomiting,disorientation, seizures, loss of consciousness,coma, respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.Everyone is at risk, but individuals

with health problems such as heart or lungdiseases, the elderly, infants, children andpregnant women are especially vulnerable.Anyone who experiences symptoms

of carbon monoxide poisoning should leave the premises and immediately call 911. The Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition

(C-MAC) is offering a free brochure entitled“What You Should Know To Protect Your FamilyFrom Carbon Monoxide.” The brochure isavailable through the Allegheny County HealthDepartment by calling 412.687.ACHD or visiting its web site at www.achd.net.C-MAC is a voluntary community service group that

includes emergency, fire and health officials; natural gasutilities; instrument-testing companies; and heating contractors.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT!Please submit your information, including a phone number and e-mail information to: [email protected]

or call 724.942.0940

PRSRT STD

US POSTAGE

PAID

PITTSBURGH, PA

PERMIT NO. 887

IN Baldwin-Whitehall

IN Bedford County

IN Bethel Park

IN Canon-Mac

IN Chartiers Valley

IN Fox Chapel

IN Hampton

IN Keystone Oaks

IN Mars Area

IN McKeesport Area

IN Mercer County

IN Monroeville

IN Mt. Lebanon

IN Murrysville

IN North Allegheny

IN Norwin

IN Penn Hills

IN Peters Township

IN Pine-Richland

IN Plum

IN Ross Township

IN Seneca Valley

IN Shaler

IN South Fayette

IN Upper St. Clair

IN West Je�erson Hills

IN West Mi�in

IN Woodland Hills

IN Baldwin-Whitehall

IN Bedford County

IN Bethel Park

IN Canon-Mac

IN Chartiers Valley

IN Fox Chapel

IN Hampton

IN Keystone Oaks

IN Mars Area

IN McKeesport Area

IN Mercer County

IN Monroeville

IN Mt. Lebanon

IN Murrysville

IN North Allegheny

IN Norwin

IN Penn Hills

IN Peters Township

IN Pine-Richland

IN Plum

IN Ross Township

IN Seneca Valley

IN Shaler

IN South Fayette

IN Upper St. Clair

IN West Je�erson Hills

IN West Mi�in

IN Woodland Hills

603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray I PA I 15317724.942.0940www.incommunitymagazines.com

ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERSOur community magazines partner with over

20 School Districts and Townships.

We direct mail to over 500,000 householdsincluding these new fall 2010 additions:

TO ADVERTISECall 724.942.0940

[email protected]

Our Family ofMagazinesis Growing!

| IN BEDFORD COUNTY |

| IN BETHEL PARK |

| IN BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN- WHITEHALL |

| IN CANON-MAC |

| IN CHARTIERS VALLEY |

| IN FOX CHAPEL |

| IN HAMPTON |

| IN KEYSTONE OAKS |

| INMARS AREA |

| INMcKEESPORT AREA |

| INMERCER COUNTY |

| INMONROEVILLE |

| INMONTOUR |

| INMOON TOWNSHIP |

| INMT. LEBANON |

| INMURRYSVILLE |

| IN NORTH ALLEGHENY |

| IN NORWIN |

| IN PENN HILLS |

| IN PETERS TOWNSHIP |

| IN PINE-RICHLAND |

| IN PLUM |

| IN ROSS TOWNSHIP |

| IN SENECA VALLEY |

| IN SEWICKLEY AREA |

| IN SHALER |

| IN SOUTH FAYETTE |

| IN UPPER ST. CLAIR |

| WEST ALLEGHENY |

|| INWEST JEFFERSON HILLS |

| INWEST MIFFLIN |

| INWOODLAND HILLS |

in west allegheny

Documents

west allegheny community

community magazines

things community

baronin west allegheny

west allegheny area

edition of west allegheny

itscomprising municipalities

good dose of peace