IN West Mifflin

�The PerfectHostess Gift

Resolve to KeepYour Resolutions

West Mifflin’s VFWPost 914 KeepsCommunity First

WINTER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

IN West Mifflin is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing, encouragingand promoting the West Mifflin 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 McElhinnyPamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.comOne 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 SabatiniJessie Jones Michael Silvert

Connie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian 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: 2/8

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

for taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for Community Magazines,

as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout WesternPennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we methead-on, and with great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff.

I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazinewhat it is – you, our readers, and our advertisers.

Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into whatyou see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write-in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listento you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in yourideas to our editor at [email protected].

Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continuedsupport with Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicl e for you. But what is alsoimportant is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support yourcommunity magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If youlike this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in theirbusinesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re alsoyour neighbors and community sponsors.

I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that2011 has to offer!

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 Mifflin. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community.

Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and theirpassion 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 flowfrom the West Mifflin community is amazing and awesome.

From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope that yourholiday 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

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

WINTER 2010

2 West Mifflin

8 13 29

West Mifflin | WINTER 2010 |

Contents

4

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Publisher’s Message | 1

FEATURES | West Mifflin VFW Post 914 | 3| Easy Ideas for Creating Custom,

Memorable Holiday Cards | 4| Back Pain — Many Causes, Few Cures | 6| Cardio Exercises — Keeping

the Most Important Muscle Fit | 8| UPMC Today

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13| Volunteering Brings More Joy Than Imagined | 24| Don’t Let Winter Slow You Down

Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions | 28| The Perfect Hostess Gift | 29| Real Estate in West Mifflin | 30| Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions This Year | 31| Those Unwholesome Christmas Memories | 32

COMMUNITY INTEREST | West Mifflin Events | 11| West Mifflin Community Information | 12| In Kids | 21| Houses of Worship | 25| Older Adults in West Mifflin | 26

ON THE COVER | Inside of St. Agnes Church.

They served our country in foreigntheaters during times of war. World War II,Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, IraqiFreedom, Afghanistan — there’s no shortageof conflicts needing brave men and women to step up and answer the call.

And when they return, they are welcome tojoin the local VFW, and in West Mifflin, thatlocal VFW Post 914 will keep them active andserving their community for years to come.

Established in 1991, Post 914 hasprograms that support current service menand women, students and disabled veterans.

“We support our troops all over,” said Post Commander Charles Krebs. “We sendpackages to our 914 people. We also getmaterial and give it to other organizationsthat ship it out for us. We do hospitalprograms for our veterans at SouthwesternHospital and Aspinwall. We give them treatsand comradeship. Most are bedridden. We try to do eight programs a year.”

other programs the VFW participates in include “operation Uplink,” where phonecards are purchased and sent overseas so thattroops can call their family and friends. TheVFW also supports the West Mifflin JuniorroTC, band and cheerleading programs, as well as the little league, softball league and soapbox derby.

Some of their big sources of publicvisibility are parades.

“We march in just about anything thatcomes along,” Krebs said. “We march incommunity days, Memorial Day, when we’lldo services at the Lebanon Church Cemeterywith our color guard and firing squad. Wehave a Pearl Harbor function that we do withthe West Mifflin High School.”

In addition, the VFW also supports theWalt Kudzma Scholarship, which awards one$300 first-place award, one $200 second-place award, and one $100 third-place awardfor essays written by seniors.

“Everything we generate as far as moneyand donations goes right back into thecommunity,” Krebs said. “We have twofundraisers a year. This year, we worked withBob Evans and did a fundraiser with them.Unlike most VFWs, we do not have a bar, so this income allows us to continue doingthe programs we do.”

The West Mifflin VFW Post 914 hasnearly 150 members, a quarter of which are Vietnam veterans. The post received arecruitment award in September from theDepartment of the Veterans of Foreign WarsDistrict 29, however, for recruiting more than

10 new members from conflicts in Iraq andAfghanistan.

Krebs said that every member of Post 914goes out of their way to help the community,and while there are larger posts with moremembers, 914 is more active than the rest.

“We do more than some of the posts thathave several hundred members,” he said. “We believe in our mission, which is to,‘Honor the dead by serving the living.’”

For more information on the VFW ingeneral, go to www.vfw.org. For informationon Post 914 in particular, includingmembership requirements, fundraisers andcurrent news, go to www.vfw914intrepid.org.Meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., at the Thompsonrun Athletic Club, 4901 Ball Avenue, West Mifflin, PA 15122.

West Mifflin’sVeterans of Foreign Wars

Post 914 KeepsCommunity First

West Mifflin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Pennsylvania Department of theVeterans of Foreign Wars District29 Commander William Gribbin,left, presents a recruitment awardfrom Frank Mills, VFW StateCommander for 2009–2010, toVFW Post 914 ‘Intrepid’ WestMifflin Quartermaster MikeMauer. Thanks to Mauer’s efforts,more than 10 new members –mostly younger veterans from theconflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan -joined VFW Post 914 last year.

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Cardstore.com

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

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

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

4 West Mifflin


It’s the kind of thing that can comein an instant like a lightning bolt, orsneak in over the course of weeks like apersistent fog. In any form, it’s unwelcome and costs U.S. businessesmillions of dollars in lost work and sickdays. It’s back pain, and while it’s not totally understood, it’s totally real formillions of Americans.

There are several varieties of backpain, each with their own names base d

on the location on the spine from whichthey seem to originate. one of the more

common ones that you may have heardabout is “lumbago,” or lower back pain. The

name stems from the lumbar section of thespine, and the condition has fueled an estimated $70 billion industry in itself in

physician services, self-help remedies, ointments, devices and more. America’s obsession with lumbar and its proper sup port

has led to seats with lumbar adjustments being standard inmost high-end vehicles. For those who drive economy cars,

there are pillows, wedges, lattices of beads and vibrating heating pads that plug into your car’s lighter socket, each

proclaiming more relief than the next.

Many Causes, Few Cures

If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and

pains, most doctors agreethat compresses

of warm, moist heat are the best way to cope.

6 West Mifflin

You might be surprised to find that your firstchiropractic visit may include 15 minutes ofmassage therapy, where warm, moist heatcompresses are placed on your back, followedby 15 minutes of TEnS, or transcutaneouselectrical nerve stimulation, which zings and zaps your muscles with a pleasant

tingling sensation. While it all feels great, scientists are split as to

whether any of it works for the long term. A studyby the American Academy of Family Physicians

came to the conclusion that while heat packs, deepheat, and massage are useful in the immediate relief

of symptoms, long term effectiveness is still inquestion, and the use of TEnS therapy hasdemonstrated no long term effectiveness at all.

What the study did conclude is that unless the painis the result of a deeper medical condition, likecan cer or infection, exercise and patient education

are the best tools out there in helping the patientin the long term.

Despite the accoutrements that one can purchase, few provide total relief. That’s because the actual causes of run-of-the-mill, everyday back pain are largely unknown. Many reasons for serious back pain are easily diagnosed because theyhave a direct causal basis or present with othe r symptoms suchas weight loss, fever or incontinence. Someone in a recent car accident, for example, would know that their current back painis a result of the collision. However, it’s been postulated thatback pain may also be the result of stress at work or at home,reasons that would not show up in an MrI or X-ray.

If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, mostdoctors agree that compr esses of warm, moist heat are the bestway to cope. over-the-counter pain relievers are also safe, solong as you take them as directed. Chiropractors and physicaltherapists may be able to suggest a stretching regimen thatcould alleviate some of the more common aches and pains associated with the spine. In fact, more and more chiropractorshave integrated techniques into patient visits other than thebasic routine adjustment.

Exercise and patientExercise and patienteducation are the besteducation are the best

tools out there intools out there inhelping the patienthelping the patient

in the long term.in the long term.


cardiexercises-

�Keeping the Most Important Muscle Fit

When it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through the hypeand advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio

machine or workout.However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the

heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said DanGriffin, general manager of oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, who iscertified by the American College of Sports Medicine, saidpeople are becoming more educated when it comes to theircardio workout.

“People understand you do not have to do long, slow distanceexercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showingnow that low-intensity heart maintenance levels are just asefficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the kind of

8 West Mifflin

exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’t recite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffin said. “The higher heart levels have a whole different physiologicalresponse and work on different parts of your body. Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those 30-40 minutes youusually dedicate to your workout and break it up.”

Griffin said there are new workout machines that take advantageof that data to help athletes meet those various heart ranges.

“There always are machines that are the ‘hot machines.’ In the‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper, and now it’s treadmills, ellipticals,and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re in one plane,moving forward. With multi-angular and multi-plane machinesyou’re moving forward, and you’re also going left, right, forwardand back,” Griffin said. “Another hot machine right now is theArcTrainer, which is a cross between a stepper and an elliptical.With step training, few people can last long enough to make thatwork right, so the ArcTrainer is a favorite among tennis playersand other athletes who come in.”

In addition to specialized cardio machines, Griffin said circuittraining still gives people a great workout.

“Circuit training is still alive and well. We have trainers who takepeople through workouts that are as demanding as can be,” he said.“Unless you need bulk and heavy lifting, there’s a lot to be said for this functional training where you’re pushing sandbags andworking out without stopping between sets. I’ve done it, and havegotten my heart rate from 130 up to 170, and it stays within thatrange within the whole half hour. The keythough, is to do it in a circuit fashion.That way, you don’t have tostop between exercising.”

Griffin said that becausecircuit training focuses ondifferent muscle groups, theworkouts typically are fasterto get through.

“Muscularly, you don’tneed the rest becauseyou’re working adifferent muscle groupeach time,” he said. “Cardio-wise, you mayhave to wait 30 secondsor so between sets, but you can definitelybe fit by doing that.”

“...the best cardio

workout depends on

engaging the heart

through a multitude

of levels and

workloads...”


SUBMIT YOUREVENT!

CALL [email protected]

10 West Mifflin

ADVERTISE HERE!

CALL [email protected]

The Allegheny County Parks Department today announced the north Park and South Park ice rinks willopen on Thursday, november 4, weather and conditions permitting. The 2010-2011 ice skating seasonwill run through mid-March 2011.

The Parks Department will once again offer both free and paid skating lessons throughout the season to residents ages five and older. See the attached schedule for a complete list of operating hours, lessontimes, admission fees, rink rental fees, and skate rental fees.

The north Park and South Park ice rinks offer gift certificates, and the rinks are available to rent for special occasions.

For additional information, call the north Park Ice rink at 724-935-1280 or the South Park Ice rink at 412-833-1499.

2011 Family, Senior and Individual Pool Pass Certificates and 2011 Senior Golf Certificates are available as holiday gifts. Call 412-350-2468 for details.


Upcoming Events

WMBL West Mifflin Little League sign-up anytime on-line –

www.leaguelineup.com/WMBL

Duquesne Students willbe allowed to continueattending West Mifflin AreaHigh School. Legislationwas approved by the StateHouse of representatives.

State reps. Bill Kortz, D-Dravosburg, and Marc Gergely, D-White oak, noted that the bill addresses theconcerns of the state Supreme Court, which ruled on Sept. 30 that the current lawthat allowed for the reassignments of the Duquesne students was illegal. DuquesneDistrict closed the High School in 2007. The new legislation calls for the formationof an advisory committee that will include members of the various school districtsand residents. Currently there are 175 students from Duquesne School District.

Districts who accept students are being paid tuition. The only other stipulationis that the district must be located within three miles of the border of Duquesne.

Walk Live Classes New Season

December 6, 2010 –February 28, 2011Mondays & Thursdays6–7 p.m.

(except when school is not in session) ECEC Building Gym - West Mifflin MiddleSchool - Cost is $20.00 need more information? Call Cheryl at 412.303.5386Get fit while having fun! our music sets the pace and motivates.

Seventh Annual ChristmasToy Drive

november 18 throughDecember 16, 2010. Alldonations of unwrapped toysand clothing for local needychildren, ages birth to 18 yearsold. Items may be left at the

offices of Allegheny Chiropractic in the WMBorough building. In cooperation with theGreater Pittsburgh Food Bank and the WMArea School District, all toys and clothingdonated by you will be distributed tochildren in our area.

WE THAnK YoU For YoUrGEnEroSITY! More info 412.460.1166

Duquesne Students Allowed to transfer to WestMifflin Area and East Allegheny High School

West Mifflin Borough www.westmifflinborough.com

Municipal Building3000 Lebanon Church RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Phone: 412.466.8170 Fax: 412.466.8173

AdministrationMayor:Chris Kelly [email protected]

Borough Manager:Richard Janus [email protected]

Administrative Assistant:Anna Marie Kuzma [email protected]

Administrative Assistant: Diane Wrobleski [email protected]

Public Works Director: James Hess [email protected]

Recreation Administrator:Lance Maha 412.464.1918

CouncilPresident:Regis L. Stephenson

Vice President:John T. Munsie

John AndzelikJoseph B. FalceRobert KostelnikMichael OlackRhonda Popovich

DepartmentsRecreation/CommunityDevelopment412.466.8174

Chief Building Inspector: Walter "Butch" Anthony [email protected]

Field Inspector: William L. [email protected]

Public Works412.461.5300

Fire DepartmentsHomeville Volunteer FireCompany #13900 Greensprings AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.461.9475

Duquesne Annex Volunteer FireCompany #21620 Pennsylvania AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.466.7500

Volunteer Fire Company #3 3722 Rodeo DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.469.0219

Skyview Volunteer FireCompany #4660 Noble DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.461.9553

Ambulance ServicePrism Health Services4821 Buttermilk Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Business Office: 412.466.5111Emergency: 911

Police DepartmentChief of Police:Joseph Popovich4733 Greensprings AveWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.461.3125Fax: 412.461.3944Emergency: 911

Elected officialsPa State Representative:William C. Kortz38th Legislative District 751 Pittsburgh-McKeesport Blvd.Dravosburg, PA 15034 Phone: 412.466.1940Fax: 412.460.3023

PA State Senator:Jay Costa, Jr.43rd District3000 Lebanon Church RoadFirst FloorWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.2784Fax: 412.466.2700

West Mifflin 3000 Lebanon Church Road Suite 300 West Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131

AdministrationSuperintendent:Dr. Janet Sardon412.466-9131 ext. [email protected]

Assistant Superintendent:Dr. Daniel Castagna412.466.9131 ext. 3003

Board Secretary/Business Manager:Mr. Dennis Cmar412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Director of Buildings & Grounds:Mrs. Sandra Wells412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Acting Director of Special Projects:Ms. Mary Jane Hudak412.466.9131 ext. 3028

Director of Technology:Mr. Joel Tachoir412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Director of Security:Mr. Joseph Gajdos412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

Public Relations Coordinator /Grant Writer: Mrs. Robyn Tedesco412.466.9131 ext. [email protected]

School BoardBoard President:Mr. Michael Price Term Ends: 2013

Board Vice President:Mr. Ted Cale Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

Mr. Nicholas Alexandroff Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

Mrs. Kathleen Bracco Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. John Donis Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Richard Fialkovich Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Dr. Albert Graham Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Ned Mervos Term Ends: 2011412.466.9131

Mr. Phil Shar Term Ends: 2013412.466.9131

SchoolsWest Mifflin Area High School91 Commonwealth AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Dr. Mark Hoover

West Mifflin Area Middle School371 Camp Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Acting Principal: Mr. Brian Plichta

Early Childhood Education Center515 Camp Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Superintendent/ECEC Principalof Record: Dr. Janet M. Sardon

Clara Barton Elementary764 Beverly DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mrs. Noelle Haney

New Emerson Elementary1922 Pennsylvania AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mrs. CathrynBrundage

Homeville Elementary4315 Eliza StreetWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.461.9131Principal: Melissa Bracco

New England Elementary2000 Clairton RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122Phone: 412.466.9131Principal: Mr. Michael Sable

West Mifflin Borough

West Mifflin School District

12 West Mifflin


22 West Mifflin


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 weekand both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company.“Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere Ishouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh.

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

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

Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol sawan opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that givesher meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of herexperience 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 forvolunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little asan hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help withgrocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling andyard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could usesome assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol,families and groups are also welcome.

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

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

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined.

A

24 West Mifflin


Free, Walk-thru Live Nativity

Friday, December 17 and Saturday, December 18, 20107–9 p.m.

Homeville Christian Church4702 Eliza StWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.461.3731

Calvary Baptist Church Walker & Anborn Drives, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2006www.calvarybaptistwestmifflin.com

Christ Lutheran Church 405 Kennedy Avenue, Duquesne, PA 15110 412.466.7773

First Baptist Church 3427 Cypress Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2522

Holy Spirit Catholic Church2603 Old Elizabeth Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.894.8805

Holy Trinity Catholic Church 529 Grant Avenue Extension, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.6545

Homeville Christian Church 4702 Eliza Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122

Jehovah’s Witness Pittsburgh Congregation 1075 Camp Hollow Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122, 412.466.2644

Lebanon Presbyterian Church 2702 Old Elizabeth Road, West Mifflin, PA15122 412.466.7184 www.lebanonpc.org

Lincoln Place Church Of The Nazarene 5604 Interboro Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15207 412.461.1133

Morning Star Baptist Church 816 Oak Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.7861

Mount Zion United Church Of Christ 236 Bellwood Drive, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.5202

Resurrection Catholic Church 3909 Donna Avenue, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.8087

St. Agnes Catholic Church 622 St. Agnes Lane, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.2655

St. Rita’s Parish Community 219 West Schwab Avenue, Whitaker, PA 15120 412.461.4204

Terrace Church Of The Nazarene 1815 Worton Blvd., West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.346.0228

Walnut Grove Assembly Of God 44 Adams Avenue, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.469.3010

West Mifflin Community Baptist Church 3813 Fleetwood Drive, West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.5924

Whitaker United Methodist Church 124 Arkansas Avenue, Whitaker, PA 15120 412.461.5884

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

or call 724.942.0940

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

Each year, an individual is allowed 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 beenrepealed for 2010, but they are set to returnon January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55%on estates valued at more than $1 million.In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax 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’sproposal 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 taxpayerswon’t have a lot of time to make thesedecisions. According to Marzina, if the new tax laws are in place by Dec. 1, there will only be a 30-day window tomake any decisions this year. So the bestthing to do is make those decisions 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 Mifflin

A

Tax Planning for The New Year

26 West Mifflin

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.

b y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in West Mifflin

W

How to PreventInjury this Winter

Senior Agencies

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 Marybeth@incommunity magazines.comwith your center’s name and phone number.

Steel Valley Resource Center530 Miller Ave.Clairton, PA 15025412.233.3080

Community Program Extension3075 Clairton Road, Suite 948Century III Mall, West Mifflin, PA 15123 412.532.0142


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 f reeze in low temperatures, and carry anextra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper 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 Samaritan tojump 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. However, you can’t eliminate bad driving, 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 –

28 West Mifflin 28 West Mifflin

Casual PartiesGifts of food and beverage are always welcome. In a pinch, your host can set out your cookies or drinks if supplies run low. Just check with your hostess to makesure they are serving alcohol before you decide on theCabernet or riesling.

Formal PartiesFor parties that are more formal in nature, a gift ofchocolates or bottle of champagne are wonderful andthoughtful gifts. Flowers are a great option if you havethem arranged in a vase before you arrive or delivered the day before the party. Your hostess will be so gratefulnot to have to stop and tend to your gift while trying to welcome her guests!

Something More Personal?Scented candles, lotions or a CD of your host’s favoritetype of music make great gifts. A homemade jar of jam, or muffins wrapped in a cellophane bag and tied withribbon will be something your hostess will truly appreciate.For someone who loves the kitchen, soap and lotioncaddies for the kitchen sink or beautiful kitchen towels are memorable gifts that won’t go unnoticed. Last fall, I received a basket of tomatoes from my friend’s PetersTownship garden and was so thrilled! Always rememberto place a small note with your gift. The next day, you host won’t be scratching her head wondering who was so thoughtful to remember her with that lovely gift!

When attending a party, Ialways try to remember to take a hostess gift. Hostess gifts arereally just a small gesture –something to thank your hostfor being so welcoming. But,what to bring? It depends onhow well you know your hostessand how formal the party.


REAL ESTATEIN West Mifflin

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 thespring 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 youcan 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 saidthat 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 airconditioning,” 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.

30 West Mifflin

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 10percent of those engaging in new Year’sresolutions actually follow through with theirgoals. Success in achieving those goals stemsfrom taking baby steps, or realistic approachesto achievement.

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

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

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

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout.

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

work the weights firstbefore cardio.”

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

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

and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a loteasier than doing 30 minutes at the gymeveryday for two weeks to negate those calories.While it's 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.


32 West Mifflin


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

As another heating season begins, the AlleghenyCounty Health Department is joining with the CarbonMonoxide Awareness Coalition of Pittsburgh andAllegheny County to remind 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 afuel. Hundreds die each year nationwide from accidentalcarbon monoxide poisoning, but most deaths could beprevented through greater awareness and education.Thirty-one accidental poisonings were reported

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

malfunctioning or incorrectly vented furnace, hot waterheater, 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 anattached or integral garage are other possible carbonmonoxide sources.To prevent carbon monoxide problems, furnaces and

fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected before eachheating season. Carbon monoxide homealarms can help as well, but are notfoolproof and no substitute for regularfurnace maintenance.Carbon monoxide poisoning may

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

with health problems such as heart orlung diseases, the elderly, infants,children and pregnant women areespecially vulnerable.Anyone who experiences symptoms of

carbon monoxide poisoning should leavethe premises and immediately call 911. The Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Coalition (C-MAC) is offering a freebrochure entitled “What You ShouldKnow To Protect Your Family FromCarbon Monoxide.” The brochure isavailable through the Allegheny CountyHealth Department by calling 412-687-ACHD or visiting itsweb site at www.achd.net.C-MAC is a voluntary community service group that

includes emergency, fire and health officials, natural gas utilities; instrument testing companies; and heatingcontractors.

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