Allegheny West Magazine

Transcription

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)URPWKH PUBLISHER & EDITORS
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Recently, there has been an upsurge in need in the West Allegheny community.
First, the West Allegheny Food Pantry has issued a call for help. Their pantry supplies and financial resources are draining
more quickly than they can help the clients they serve.
Second, a new arm of Faith in Action has evolved out of Clinton United Presbyterian Church. The organization currently
has about 20 volunteers ready to help drive residents to their doctor and other appointments, get their groceries, or assist
with other day-to-day tasks where they need driven. However, this wonderful group of community volunteers wants to get
the word out that they are available to serve those in need. Read their story in this issue.
There are others who share their story of community support during times of loss and survival. The community rose to the
occasion to support a blood drive to help young Gabby Holtz. Read Todd Kosenina’s story following his tragic accident last
year, and read the heartfelt thank you from one resident giving credit to the North Fayette Township Police Department and
her neighbors when her dog was lost.
What a wonderful community to live in. Calls for help are put out there, many respond, and this corner of the world is a better place because of it.
It’s the West Allegheny way.
Pat Jennette, Publisher & Editor
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Not long ago I was talking to Tim Thomassy, McDonald's former city council president, about how this little neck of the woods that this magazine
covers used to be a veritable Saudi Arabia. Turns out, a huge oilfield used to underlie it, and some think, still does. For a time, it was a huge center for
petroleum production. Yet, few mentions are made in the history books, and Tim says that whenever he was in school – back when they taught
Pennsylvania history – no mention was ever made of it.
Not long ago, he got interested in this topic and started fishing through archives looking for more. He’d actually get really
excited when, while looking through some old newspapers on the microfiche machine, he’d pull something out of the haystack.
I knew just what he meant. It’s one of the aspects of writing that I enjoy, going out there, looking under rocks, turning up things
no one knew existed. Tim assembled what he found into an exhibit at the McDonald trail station along the Panhandle Trail.
Earlier this year, he secured the historical designation marker that was dedicated this summer. Next time you're there, you
should check it out.
For this issue, I got to explore our area's historical and not often talked about ties to the petroleum industry. It seems
relevant, given the current energy boom our area is experiencing. We’re hoping to look more into this subject in future issues
and in the different communities we cover.
Doug Hughey, Assistant Editor
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In our
14th Year
Serving Our
Community!
LEFT TO RIGHT: Helping hands create knitted items for babies at Montours Church; West Allegheny had national Future
Business Leaders of America winners; oil wells dot the community’s landscape, a reminder of history past; story, page 33.
HELPING HANDS and FBLA PHOTOS SUBMITTED, OIL PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ROLINSON
TO REACH US
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“GOOD NEWS ALWAYS, MAILED & DELIVERED FREE, EVERY TIME”
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SPECIAL SECTION
West Allegheny
School District Newsletter
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ABOUT THE COVER
Volunteers are ready to serve the
community through a new
organization, Faith in Action,
established in the West Allegheny
area. Story on page 15.
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As with every issue, your community businesses are the reason for the publication of Allegheny West Magazine. Please support these businesses. Their
support allows us to mail this magazine, free, into the households of Findlay, North Fayette, Oakdale, Sturgeon, and portions of McDonald as a community
service.
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7:30 a.m.-noon, Findlay
Township Activity Center, Main
Street, Imperial, benefits Boy
Scout Troop 830 Clinton,
(412) 951-9009, troop830clinton
@hotmail.com.
8QLTXH%RXWLTXH, Satur-
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2:30-4:30 p.m., King’s Restaurant, Imperial, (724) 796-1603.
In November 2010 the State
passed the CDRA – Covered
Device Recycling Act. On
January 24, 2013 that law
requires that landfills and solid
waste disposal sites no longer
accept such items as computers, monitors, peripherals,
televisions, and these items
cannot be put into regular
curbside trash pickup. Findlay
Township began its Computer
and Appliance recycling
program with JVS Environmental in 2008. Findlay’s next
“Computer and Appliance
Recycling Day” will be
Saturday, October 13, 10 a.m.
to 2 p.m. at the municipal
building, 1271 Route 30, Clinton.
All computers, monitors,
printers, laptops, non-Freon
appliances, telephones,
keyboards, mice (the computer
kind!), radios, and televisions
will be accepted for FREE.
Appliances with Freon will be
accepted, including dehumidifiers, for a $15-30 fee. For more
information, contact Cynde,
(724) 695-0500.
:HVWHUQ3$.LGQH\
6XSSRUW *URXS, Sundays,
)LQGOD\5HSXEOLFDQ
&RPPLWWHH0HHWLQJ first
Tuesday monthly, 7 p.m.,
Findlay Township Municipal
Building, Clinton, guest speakers
monthly, (412) 860-4331.
2FWREHU
2FWREHUIHVW&KULVW\
+RXVHFrederick Street,
Sewickley, German fare,11:30
a.m.-1:30 p.m., benefits
women’s and children’s
missions, also yard sale (rain
date: October 19), (412) 7415960 for reservations of four or
more.
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7+(52&.<RXWK
)DPLO\&HQWHU is open,
Oakdale, Monday-Thursday 3-7
p.m., Saturdays for Middle-High
Schoolers, 7-9 p.m., $15 for the
2012-2013 season, (724) 6932777.
2FWREHU
)DOO&UXLVLQ·LQWKH
:RRGODQGV (raindate
October 14), 11 a.m.-3 p.m.,
Clinton Park, 86 Clinton Park
Drive, Clinton, hosted by
Pittsburgh C.A.R.S. and sponsored by Findlay Township Parks
and Recreation, dash plaques to
the first 100 participating cars.
DJ, food, 50/50 raffle, trophies,
$5/car donation collected at gate
to benefit local Christmas
charities, (724) 695-0500.
$VFHQVLRQ)OHD0DUNHW
Saturday, October 13, Church
of the Ascension, Ingram, 9 a.m.2 p.m., (412) 489-6241.
&RPSXWHUDQG
$SSOLDQFH5HF\FOLQJ
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)DOO3XUVH%LQJR, Holy
Trinity Catholic School
cafeteria, Steubenville Pike,
Robinson, doors open 1 p.m.,
bingo games begin 2 p.m.,
hosted by the Western Area
YMCA, featuring Vera Bradley
purses and accessories,
tickets $25 in advance at the
YMCA or $30 at the door and
include bingo cards and lunch,
benefits children of families
with limited incomes so that
they can participate in quality
after school and summer day
camp programs, (412) 787-9622.
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&KDPEHU0XVLFDWWKH
&DUQHJLH0XVLF+DOO
Cuidado (The Tango Band) and
Sotiri Tsourekis Greek Orchestra, general admission tickets $15, (412) 276-3456, ext. 7,
www.carnegiecarnegie.org.
6WDUWV1RYHPEHU
)LUVW3ODFH+HDOWK,
12-week biblically based,
medically trustworthy weight
loss/wellness program,
Wednesdays, 5:15-6:30 p.m.,
Thursdays, 5:45-7 p.m.,
Crossroads Church, North
Fayette, $110 initial cost; $25
subsequent sessions,
(412) 494-9999,
FirstPlace@crossroadsumc.org.
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:LOVRQ(OHPHQWDU\37$
)DOO%D]DDU 9 a.m.-2 p.m.,
Findlay Township Activity Center,
Main Street, Imperial, $25/table for
vendors, proceeds benefit Wilson
PTA, Shelley Stayduhar, (412) 7882022 or e-mail, shelleystayduhar
@comcast.net.
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$$53'ULYHUV6DIHW\
&RXUVH, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.,
Ascension Lutheran Church,
1290 Silver Lane, Robinson,
teaches strategies for safe
driving and confidence behind
the wheel; must attend both
sessions to get a discount on
car insurance, $12 AARP
members, $14, non-members,
free for veterans, (412) 8593711, Tuesday to Thursday,
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
day, November 10, 10 a.m.-4
p.m., Edgeworth Club, Sewickley,
sponsored by Heritage Valley
Sewickley Foundation, $10
admission only, $35 admission
and lunch, register by October
29, (412) 749-7052.
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:$)(/%RRN6DOH
during library hours except
Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.,
North Fayette Community Center
room, $7 a bag on Wednesday,
$6 on Thursday, $5 on Friday,
and $5 for two bags on
Saturday, to volunteer for set up,
work the sale, or clean up, sign
up at the library or contact Lin,
(412) 788-1599.
1RYHPEHU
´$7RDVWWRWKH&RPPX
QLW\µMontour Heights Country
Club, sponsored by Ohio Valley
General Hospital, (412) 7776359.
1RYHPEHU
5RELQVRQ7RZQVKLS
&KULVWLDQ6FKRRO'LQQHU
DQG$XFWLRQ)XQGUDLVHU
6 p.m., Doubletree Hotel, Moon
Township, $28, includes buffet
dinner, (412) 331-2381.
1RYHPEHU
%R\6FRXW7URRS
6SDJKHWWL'LQQHU, Oakdale
Community Center, 3-7 p.m., $8/
adult ($7 in advance), $5/seniors
and children six and under,
supports scouting trips and
activities, takeout available, (724)
693-0549.
1RYHPEHU
2DNGDOH/LJKW8S1LJKW,
7 p.m., downtown Oakdale,
(724) 693-9740.
'HFHPEHU
%DUQHV1REOH%RRN
)DLU, 9 a.m.-10 p.m., supports
Western Allegheny Community
Library, crafts, storytimes, free
gift wrapping, educators receive
25% discount, (724) 695-8150.
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Findlay Activities Coming Up
.,'·6 &5($7,9( &22.,1* $8
residents, $10 non-residents, per class,
payment due at class. No walk-ins, kindergarten through grade 5, Thursdays, October
11, November 15.
/81&+ %81&+Bring packed lunch/drink,
enjoy fun activities, pre-school and kindergarten children who turned four by September 1,
2012, $4 per class/residents, $5 per class/
non-residents, payment due at class,
Thursdays, October 30, November 27,
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
7,0( )25 72''/(56 For toddlers who
turned two by September 1, 2012, enjoy
movement, music, activities, and snack. Meet
other families and toddlers. An adult must stay
with the child. Mondays, October 15 and
22, November 5 and 19, 10:15-11:15 a.m.,
$3 per session.
Programs above are held at the Findlay
Township Activity Center, 310 Main Street,
Imperial. Registration is required.
:$7(5 $(52%,&6
Held at Wilson Elementary School, 317 Boggs
Road, 6-7 p.m., Monday classes are October
15 and 22, November 5, 12, and 19 and
December 3 and 10. Wednesday classes
are October 10, 17, and 24 , November 7,
14, and 28 and December 5 and 12, $40 for
each eight-week session or $75 for both
sessions. Bring towels; locker rooms are
available. Classes cannot be held when there
is no school or if there is a special school
sponsored activity.
$'8/7 /$3 6:,00,1* Available for
adults (18 yrs.+) at Wilson Elementary School
pool, Boggs Road, Imperial, Wednesdays, 7-8
p.m., October 10, 17 and 24 November 7,
14 and 28, and December 5 and 12, $2 per
evening; bring correct change.
:((. ,1752 ´727$/ %2'<
:25.287µ ,17(59$/ 75$,1,1*
Interval Training mixes up the workout. The
class routine is warm up, 15 minutes of
cardio, 15 minutes of toning, 15 minutes of
cardio, ending with a lower body work out
and stretch. Any fitness level can participate;
instructor can modify exercises to accommodate needs. Classes are October 9, 16, and
23, November 13 and 27, and December
4, 6-7 p.m., Findlay Activity Center, Main
Street, lower level, $5 per class.
&+$,10$,//( -(:(/5< &/$66
Chainmaille began in medieval times as a
method of weaving metal to create armour for
knights. Today, the method is used to create
beautiful jewelry from various metal rings.
Instructor JoAnn McDougall will share the
history of chainmaille, materials to use, and
sources to purchase them. Learn two
weaves, “Byzantine” and “European 4 in 1”
and make two bracelets using the weaves.
Handouts will be included. Class is on
Thursday, November 29, Findlay Township
Activity Center, Main Street, Imperial, 6-9 p.m.,
for ages 15 and older, $20 includes two pairs
of pliers and enough rings to make two
bracelets. Must pre-register by November 21,
as class size is limited.
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Safely protect photos and memorabilia. Learn
to organize, document, and preserve
memories, in both a digital format and
traditional scrapbooking. Cropping station will
be available with the use of many tools.
Supplies are available for purchase. Classes
are Friday, October 19, 6 p.m.-midnight, cost
$10; and Saturday, October 20, 9 a.m.9 p.m., cost, $50. Each event includes lunch,
dinner, beverages. Bring own beverage.
Workshops are held at the Findlay Township
Activity Center, Main Street, Imperial. To preregister, contact Michelle Koester, (724) 3073333 or e-mail
michellekoestercm@comcast.net.
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0LFKDHO-1RYRVHON:DON5XQ will be held on Saturday, October 27, 9
a.m., Moon Park, Clearview Pavilion. Registration by October 14 is $25, by October 20,
$30. Proceeds benefit the Michael J. Novosel Foundation, founded in honor of Michael J.
Novosel, a bomber pilot in WWII. The foundation was established to provide support
needed to guard members and reservists returning home from service. Too often, these
warriors meet undeserved challenges instead of support. Left alone to navigate gaps in
their benefits and face medical bills, many warriors become overwhelmed while
transitioning back to their civilian lives. Our dedication is to these warriors; to provide the
care, support, and guidance through their return to civilian life. Rent, mortgage, insurance,
medical bills, and groceries are provided to warriors in need.
This event is a senior project organized by high school students Chris Culley and Collin
Fanelli. Any questions, e-mail: culley.fanelli@gmail.com.
]
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The annual parade will be held on Saturday, October 27 at 1:30
p.m. Participants will meet at the Findlay Township Activity Center
in Imperial and march down Main Street to the Imperial Fire Hall for
treats. All ages are welcome; there will be prize drawings in each
age group. Prize tickets will be given out to those in costume only!
In the event of inclement weather, the event will remain at the
Activity Center for drawings. Those not attending the pizza party
can still participate in the drawing and parade. Get tickets inside
the door of the center upon entering. Trick or treat night will be
Wednesday, October 31, 6-8 p.m.
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)$// )(67,9$/ $1' 75,&. 25 75($7
The North Fayette Township Parks and Recreation Board is
also sponsoring a Fall Festival on Saturday, October 20, 6-9
p.m. at Donaldson Community Park. There will be a costume
parade, hayrides, bonfire, and more. Local businesses and
organizations will participate by providing candy for the Trunk or
Treat parade. Additionally, local organizations are welcome to
participate to distribute candy and promotional materials. Trick
or treat night will be Wednesday, October 31, 6-8 p.m.
2$.'$/( 3$5$'( $1' 75,&. 25 75($7
7KH2DNGDOH+RVH&RPSDQ\ will again sponsor the Annual
Halloween Parade on Wednesday, October 31. The lineup begins at
Willow Creek Crossing at 5 p.m. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m. and
continues to the Oakdale Fire Department where the children will
receive treat bags. Trick or Treat in the community will follow after
the parade, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
$118$/+$817('&$%,1
October 24-27, 7-9 p.m. Oakdale Boy Scout cabin,
248 Clinton Avenue, Oakdale, $5/person. The
Haunted Cabin grounds will cover almost a full acre of
“Haunting” for your pleasure. Fun and frights for all
ages…Brave the cabin if you dare! Come meet the
ghosties and ghoulies, the three legged beasties, and
all the critters that call the cabin home. Scouts and
other youth groups that attend as a “Group” will
receive a discount of $3/person. To make arrangements for scout groups/youth groups for specific
nights and times, call (724) 693-0549. Parking is
limited; overflow parking is a quarter of a block from
the cabin. Refreshment stand will be available.
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Janoski’s in Clinton hosts Pumpkinland for the public
every weekend in October, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 per
person, located in back of Farm Market Building.
Enjoy the haunted barn, corn maze, pumpkin patch,
straw jump, pedal bike path, pony rides (for children
Only) petting zoo, pumpkin painting, face painting
and much more. There are picnic tables and pavilions. Feel free to pack a lunch or visit the food booth.
During this time the farm market, gift shop, bakery,
and garden center are open. The annual costume
party is Saturday, October 27, with judging at 2 p.m.
Hozaks Farm in Clinton offers its Fall Festival every
weekend in October, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; no admission
fee. Enjoy pony rides, pumpkin picking, pumpkin
painting, face painting, refreshments, musical
entertainment, fall decorations, hayrides to the
pumpkin patch, scenic hayrides through the woods.
See Wanda the Good Witch with goodies for the
kids.
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Impact Christian Church in Moon is hosting Trunk or
Treat on October 28, 5-7 p.m., free games and
candy for kids ages 12 & under, come in costume
(optional), Trick or Treat from car-to-car, sponsored
by Impact’s Christian Church, KIDventure Ministry,
Debi Hyjek and Katina Campbell, (412) 264-9392,
e-mail: kidventure@ impactchristian.com.
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Family Fun at
WESTERN ALLEGHENY
COMMUNITY LIBRARY
6FDUHFURZ0DNLQJ - Sunday, October 14, 2-3 p.m. Make a
one-of-a-kind scarecrow for fall. Bring old clothes to dress
your scarecrow and we will provide the rest!
6QDS6KRW3$ - One Day in the Life of Pennsylvania Libraries
- Monday, October 15. Help us record how important your
library is to you and the community!
6RFN$QLPDOVIRU&KLOGUHQ·V+RVSLWDOSaturday, November 3, 2-4 p.m. Learn to make a fun sock animal which will
be donated to Children’s Hospital. Bring a colorful pair of
socks to sew and stuff into a special friend, a dog, bunny
or monkey, for a young patient. All ages are invited; children
must be accompanied by an adult.
6SDJKHWWL'LQQHU5HDGHU·V7KHDWHU3HUIRUPDQFH Monday, November 5, 6 p.m. The Rising Star Reader’s
Theater Group will perform the A.A. Milne’s children’s
classic, “Winnie-the-Pooh,” following a spaghetti dinner at
the Montours Presbyterian Church. Tickets available at the
library and the door the night of the performance for $7
(adults) and $4 (children). Proceeds benefit youth services
at the library.
WK$QQXDO*LQJHUEUHDG:RUNVKRS - Monday, November
26, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Make gingerbread houses as a family
at the library. Registration starts November 1. Please provide
vanilla icing for each child and the item you signed up to
donate on the registration form. All ages invited; children
must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration is required and appreciated for all programs.
To register please call the library at 724.695.8150 or visit
http://westernalleghenylibrary.org, then click on programs.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
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The West Hills Symphonic Band is a 70-member, pro/am
ensemble providing quality music for 45 years, and offering
opportunities for younger players to sit side by side with
seasoned professionals, sharing their passion for playing
and performing. Coming up: Sunday, October 23, “Colors,”
3 p.m., West Allegheny High School; Sunday, December 9,
“A Gala Holiday Celebration,” 3 p.m., West Allegheny High
School, performing Christmas favorites and a surprise -- a
real, live Viennese New Year’s Eve celebration.
The WHSB is a nonprofit, non-salaried organization,
dependent upon donations from individuals and businesses in
order to continue providing free concerts. To be a recognized
patron, call Music Director Clem Rolin, (412) 788-4713 or visit
the Web site, www.whsb.org.
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OCTOBER 19, 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Entertainment by:
Random Choice Barber Shop Quartet
$8.00 PER PERSON INCLUDES: Boneless Pork Loin,
Au Gratin Potatoes, Vegetables, Bread, Dessert &
Assorted Beverages
Beautifully decorated tables with goodies at each table.
BASKET RAFFLES! ~ 50/50 DRAWING
Please purchase a ticket by October 12
Located in the Oakdale Community Center
104 Seminary Ave. ~ Oakdale, PA 15071
(724) 693-8540
CASSANDRA WALLACE - COORDINATOR
North Fayette Activities Coming Up
North Fayette will host Silver Sneakers Splash at the Donaldson Elementary
School pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 p.m., and Water Walking, Mondays
through Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Cost for both programs is $2 per session. BlueCross/
BlueShield members can use their cards for Silver Sneakers Splash. The Community Center gym is open every morning from 7:30-9 a.m. for people to walk and stay
out of the cold weather.
Senior Citizen Luncheons will be held on Thursday, October 25 (Halloween party)
and on November 15 (Thanksgiving luncheon) at the Cornerstone at Tonidale
starting at 11 a.m. Cost for the Christmas luncheon is $5.
Community Center rentals are available for the gym and community room starting
at $50 for two hours.
The P.A.L.S. program has planned a trip to Hozak’s Farm on October 20 and will
host a Halloween party on Saturday, October 27 from 6-8 p.m. at the gym.
November programs include a trip to Paradise Lanes, a movie night, and swim
party. These events are free.
The North Fayette Township Parks and Recreation Board is sponsoring a Fall
Festival on October 20 from 6-9 p.m. at Donaldson Community Park.
This year’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November
30 at 6:30 p.m. at the township building. Songs, snacks, train rides, and Santa will
be on hand for pictures. The township’s outdoor skating rink will be open that
evening, weather permitting.
Parks and Recreation is partnering with the Western Allegheny Community
Library for a Parents Day out on Saturday, December 15, from 2-6 p.m. For $10,
parents can drop their children off with Parks and Recreation and Library staff for
games, arts and crafts, and a movie while parents Christmas shop, set up the
house, or run other errands.
The township’s ice skating rink is set to open with help from the West Allegheny
Hockey Association. The rink will be open for public sessions on Fridays from 7-9
p.m., Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., and Sundays from 2-4 p.m. The rink is
available for rentals by contacting the Parks and Recreation office. Cost for the
public sessions is $3; some skate rentals are available. Goals are available for
pond hockey.
Other program offerings include Future Stars Basketball (ages 4, 5, and 6)
starting November 3, and CPR/First Aid (October 16 at 6:30 p.m.).
For more information on any of these programs, call (412) 788-4888, extension
118, (724) 693-3118, or e-mail rbrozovich@north-fayette.com. Become a friend of
North Fayette Parks and Recreation on Facebook at North Fayette Parks and
Recreation.
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In Memory of Roy Todd
Roy Todd, founder of White Swan Park which once sat on the Findlay
and Moon borders along the Parkway West, passed away in September
at the age of 95.
In 1952, Roy bought 42 acres and cleared the land to create the park,
which opened in 1955.
By the time the park closed in 1989 to make way for the new
interchange that takes vehicles up over the park’s property and to
Moon, the park had grown to 15 rides, along with arcade games, fishing
on a lake, miniature golf, and a skating rink.
Roy will fondly be remembered as having dedicated his life to making
a place where many families and residents had parties, picnics, and
memories at White Swan Park.
PTI to Help NonProfits
Student and professional web designers volunteer to raise
Web sites for local nonprofits during October weekend camp
For a little over 48 hours in October, Pittsburgh Technical Institute
will put a 21st century spin on the timeless tradition of community
barn-raising. PTI will host Pittsburgh GiveCamp 2012 from October 19
to 21 in its Multimedia Studios on its North Fayette campus.
PTI´s Web Interactive Design students will be joined by more than
30 designers, developers, database administrators, marketing
professionals, and web strategists who donate their time to produce
a series of interactive solutions for selected nonprofits.
GiveCamp organizer Irwin Hurst said, “Our only rule is that what
we aspire to do must be able to be completed in one weekend.”
Selected charitable organizations will explain their interactive goals
on Friday, October 19, and then a team is assigned to the project.
Area nonprofit organizations can still be considered for GiveCamp
2012 and should register at http://pghgivecamp.org/charities.
Selected charities will be asked to participate in GiveCamp and will
receive training for the long-term sustainability of the work created.
PTI will provide facilities, technology, meals, and most importantly,
multimedia technology students.
STORY AND PHOTO
BY PAT JENNETTE
ABOVE: front, Bobbie Halm, Betsy Ergen, Don Spray, Betty Stickley, Judy Bolind, Lena Cool, Sandi Cogis; back, Ray Dellapina, Judy Fritz, Sue
Dellapina, Peg Landon, Leah Clydesdale, Deb Seibel, Judy Heck, Pastor Laura Strauss, Skip Clydesdale, Cindy Macek, Rudy Rudowski, Eileen
Kennedy Leopold, Cathy Glowark, Ann Terputic. Not available for the photo were Linda Stoner, Sue Wise, Bob Downs, Tom McCullough, Randy Hazel,
Ed Brecht.
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A small army of community volunteers now stands ready to
help their neighbors who need a ride to the grocery store or
doctor’s appointments or to run errands.
The West Allegheny arm of Faith in Action was launched last
month.
Judy Heck, who spearheaded the effort out of her church,
Clinton United Presbyterian Church, said they decided to begin
the program as a growing need in the community emerged for
this type of help.
When she learned that one of the clients she delivers meals to
through Meals on Wheels could not get out to get her medicines, she talked with fellow church member Linda Stoner. Linda
subsequently contacted Faith in Action, located in the
Sewickley Valley YMCA, for guidance. However, they don’t
come out this far. Linda was told that other people from this area
would also call FIA and they were unable to help them, either.
So began Faith in Action - West Allegheny, sponsored under
the guidance of Heather Ochman, director, and Ann Berger,
assistant administrator, of Sewickley’s Faith in Action.
It is one of nearly 600 programs in the United States. Locally,
FIA groups serve, in addition to Sewickley, the Coraopolis,
Beaver, and Zelienople areas. Now West Allegheny is part of the
network.
The West Allegheny Ministerial Association (WAMA) is
working with Faith in Action - West Allegheny to support the
effort.
Pastor Laura Strauss of Clinton UP Church has provided office
space in the church to get the organization off the ground.
Under the guidance of Sewickley’s Faith in Action, and their
director, Heather Ochman, the West Allegheny group has, to
date, trained close to 20 volunteers, all local residents who saw
the need to help and offered their time and vehicles.
The organization provides volunteer services to senior adults
age 60 and over, to help them maintain their independence and
quality of life, build caring relationships, and be neighbors
helping neighbors.
Many of the volunteers were already providing services to the
community, whether it be through Meals on Wheels or food
distribution at the West Allegheny Food Pantry. Now, FIA
volunteers are available to provide such needs as transporting
residents to/from doctor appointments, filling and/or picking up
their prescriptions from the pharmacy, taking them to getting their
groceries, or offering friendly visits and telephone conversations.
To use Faith in Action - West Allegheny, call (724) 921-0027 and
leave a message for one of the call takers. They will, in turn, call
and verify that the care receiver is in the West Allegheny area.
They will then assign a volunteer to interview the care receiver
and gather information about them. An appointment will be
scheduled when convenient for both parties. It is important to
note that each care receiver is required to be signed up prior to
receiving care. All of the services are free to the care receiver.
Residents wishing to put their faith in action and volunteer to
be a call taker, care receiver, interviewer, driver, or office helper,
should contact the same number, (724) 921-0027.
Monetary donations are also accepted. They can be sent to
West Allegheny Faith in Action, P.O. Box 175, Clinton, PA 15026.
Graduates, Students Recognized at FBLA Nationals
West Allegheny High School 2012
graduates Kristen Rohm and Josi
Sinagoga, along with students
Aubrey Leasure and Vishmayaa
Saravanan, placed among the top
ten in the country at the Future
Business Leaders of America
(FBLA) National Leadership
Conference held June 29-July 2,
2012, in San Antonio, Texas.
Kristen Rohm and Josi Sinagoga’s
team took fourth place in the
Marketing category. The top 15
finalists in this event reviewed a
case study and presented their
marketing solution to a panel of
judges. The team of Aubrey
Leasure and Vishmayaa Saravanan
also received national recognition
and took seventh place in the
Business Ethics category.
The awards were part of a
comprehensive national competitive
event program sponsored by FBLA
that recognizes and rewards
excellence in a broad range of
business and career-related areas.
For many students, the competitive events are the capstone
activity of their academic careers.
In addition to the competitions,
students immersed themselves in
educational workshops, visited
an exhibit hall, and attended
motivational keynotes on a broad
range of business topics.
To qualify for the national
event, the marketing team of
Dave Kline, Rohm, and Sinagoga
took first place at the FBLA State
Leadership Conference held at
Hershey, Pennsylvania in April.
The team of Leasure and
Saravanan took second place in
the Business Ethics category at
the state conference. This is the
fourth consecutive year that
students from the West Allegheny High School FBLA Chapter
The teams of Aubrey Leasure and Vishmayaa Saravanan,
and Josi Sinagoga with Kristen Rohm took top honors at
the National FBLA conference.
have placed in the top ten at the national level. Pam Volakis
and Julie McGough are the FBLA staff advisors. Video
Production teacher Mike Shaffer chaperoned the students to
the national competition.
High School Students Tour Europe Over Summer
Pictured in front of Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany are (kneeling) Oleg
Chubko; (front row) Nadiya Wahl, Julie Zanella, Sydney Mangis, Emily Pia, Lauren
Bartley, Katie Hutton, Sydney Young, German teachers Karen Estermyer and Katie
Zanella, and Social Studies teacher Dan Prevade; (back row) Jed Buck, Josh
Schmader, Matt Grebosky, Anthony Carter, Joey Kvederis, Wyatt Gardner, Zach
Brandy, Christian Stout, Tanner Sansonetti, Joey Cavolo, Nick D’Amico, Evan Pelcher,
and Nick Hower.
West Allegheny High School German
teachers Karen Estermyer and Katie
Zanella, along with Social Studies teacher
Dan Prevade, chaperoned a 10-day trip to
Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for 21
high school students in June 2012. The
group visited Frankfurt, Wurzburg,
Rothenburg, Munich, Salzburg, Lucerne,
and Heidelberg. Among the highlights of
the trip was a mountain train ride to the
top of Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland, experiencing an authentic alpine slide, the
excitement of a Germany versus Greece
soccer game, visiting the Dachau
Concentration Camp, a salt mine tour
outside of Salzburg, and visiting the
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.
The West Allegheny staff and students
were part of an EF Tours Group that
included students from three different
schools.
Leadership Positions at Middle School Reorganized
The West Allegheny School Board
appointed Megan Huchko as middle
school assistant principal on August 16,
2012. Ms. Huchko fills the position
vacated by Mrs. Toni Baldanzi, who was
recently named supervisor of ancillary
programs.
Ms. Huchko is a graduate of West
Allegheny High School. She went on to
receive a bachelor’s degree in elementary
education from Miami University and a
master’s degree in educational administration from Point Park University. Ms.
Huchko was a science teacher at the
middle school for 10 of her 15 years with
the District. She has served on many
committees, including Professional
Development, Differentiated Supervision,
and the Science Curriculum Development.
During her tenure as a middle school
teacher, she was a Student Government
advisor, and participated with the Big
Brothers/Big Sisters program, Peer
Mediators, Girls Overnight Leadership
Development (G.O.L.D.) Program, Talent
Show, and Earthkeepers Program. Ms.
Huchko currently holds a seat on the
State Executive Board for the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Educa-
Middle School
Supervisor of
Assistant Principal Ancillary Programs
Ms. Megan Huchko Mrs. Toni Baldanzi
tion, was past regional president of this
organization, and has presented at
many workshops on best practices at
the regional and state level.
Mrs. Baldanzi was appointed to the
new position of supervisor of ancillary
programs. In this role, she oversees the
K-12 students enrolled in the West
Allegheny Virtual Academy by facilitating scheduling, progress monitoring,
and mediation between students,
teachers, guidance, and the district’s
virtual academy provider. Mrs. Baldanzi
also supervises the in-house Alternative Education Program. This program
was instituted as a cost-saving measure
for the District with the elimination of
an outside agency to service students in
alternative education. Mrs. Baldanzi has
been with the District for 14 years,
having served as the middle school
assistant principal for five years and for
eight years as an elementary music
teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Music
degree from William Paterson University
in New Jersey with a major in music
education. Mrs. Baldanzi has a master’s
degree in education from Carlow
University, with an emphasis on
educational leadership. She also holds a
K-12 principal certification and student
assistance program certification.
Superintendent Dr. John S. DiSanti
said, “Ms. Huchko has served as an
interim assistant principal on two
occasions and has performed admirably.
We are confident that she will provide
strong instructional leadership in her
new assignment. Mrs. Baldanzi has been
an administrator for several years and
has proven to be a committed and
dedicated professional. I know she will
do an outstanding job in her new
position.”
Wilson Elementary Principal Earns Doctorate
Wilson Elementary Principal Kathy Sites,
Ed. D., has completed the requirements for a
doctorate in educational leadership in the
Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program for
Educational Leaders (IDPEL) at Duquesne
University. The final step was the successful
defense of her dissertation entitled "Climate
and Connectedness: The Impact of a CrossAge Peer Mentoring Program" on June 25,
2012.
A dedicated employee, Dr. Sites is in her
22nd year with the West Allegheny School
District. She has served as the Wilson
principal for 12 years and was the middle
school assistant principal for 10 years prior to
assuming her current position. Dr. Sites’
career background includes teaching with the
Pittsburgh Public Schools, the Dayton City
Schools in Ohio, and the Autistic Program at
the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Dr. Sites
lends her expertise to several committees at
West Allegheny by participating on the
Safe Schools Committee, the Wellness
Committee, the Diversity Committee, and
the Olweus (Anti-Bullying Program)
District Coordinating Committee where
she is a certified trainer.
Dr. Sites holds a Bachelor’s and
Master’s degree from Slippery Rock
University. She is also certified as a
Special Education Supervisor.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. John S.
DiSanti stated, “Dr. Sites has provided
exceptional instructional leadership
during her tenure in West Allegheny. She
has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the pursuit of excellence and
serving the needs of children. She is a
valued member of our administrative team.
We extend our sincere congratulations to
her for this noteworthy accomplishment.”
Wilson Elementary Principal
Dr. Kathy Sites
Superintendent’s Message:
New Law Requires Performance-Based
Evaluation for Teachers
Under the current system of teacher
evaluation, over 90% of Pennsylvania’s
130,000 teachers are rated “satisfactory”
each year on an instrument that is based
primarily on traditional classroom observations of the teacher. Beginning with the
2013-14 school year, those districts that are
not under an existing collective bargaining
agreement that specifically defines the
method of teacher evaluation will be
expected to comply with one of the new
Omnibus School Code Amendments. The
amendments include a more objective, datadriven evaluation that is closely tied to
student performance. Those districts whose
teachers are presently under contract must
adhere to the new law once their current
contract expires.
The new law, which garnered support by
the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), includes multiple measures of
student performance. Beginning next year,
teachers will no longer be rated as “Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory” but rather, the
categorical ratings will expand from
“Distinguished” and “Proficient,” to
“Needs Improvement” and “Failing.” Onehalf of a teacher’s rating will be based on
observations that include four domains:
Planning and Preparation, Classroom
Environment, Instruction, and Professional
Responsibilities. The other half will be
based on measures of student achievement.
Of that half, 15% will be based on “building
level data” such as test scores, graduation
rates, attendance, and Advanced Placement
(AP) participation; 15% will be “teacher
specific data” that includes student
progress, and 20% will be “elective data”
which are measures that each district may
develop that could include curriculum
based assessments, student projects, and
portfolios. Teachers whose subjects are
not covered by standardized tests, such as
art, music, and physical education, will
have 15% of their evaluation tied to
building level data and 35% to elective
data.
Teachers who are rated as “Failing” or
“Needs Improvement” will be placed on a
“Performance Improvement Plan.” Two
such ratings within a 10-year period will
result in an unsatisfactory rating and lead
to teacher dismissal. Teacher ratings will be
confidential and not subject to the Public
Records Law.
Although our administrators are currently
being trained in the new evaluation
instrument, we have been applying the four
domains that I referred to previously in
classroom observations. Furthermore, the
analysis of student data along with specific
feedback on student achievement to
teachers from administrators has been
ongoing over the last several years. This
being said, I expect that the transition to
the new evaluation will be realized with
some changes in idealogy.
It has been my experience that all of our
teachers want their students to do well. A
vast majority welcome critical and meaningful feedback on their teaching, and
understand that excellence is a continuous
process of renewal. It should be noted that
when you examine the 1.7 million students
across Pennsylvania, you will discover
that not every one of them comes to
school ready to learn. Some come hungry,
not having had a nutritious meal. Some
were awake half the night and walk into
school exhausted. Others live in places
where there is little or no parental
nurturing, guidance, or support, or where
they are victims of domestic strife. Even
many of those who want to learn have
disabilities or other challenges that
require much more time, energy, and
patience from those same teachers who
are being held accountable for attaining
optimal results in achievement.
The educators with whom I work
welcome accountability. We chose the
education profession because we have a
burning desire to make a positive difference with every student with whom we
are entrusted. We accept that it is our
responsibility to do whatever it takes to
make that happen. We are not going to
make excuses. We do hope, however, that
people recognize and understand that our
efforts will be more productive when
policymakers, business leaders, parents,
and the community at large share in the
responsibility of educating our youth. In
the words of the Dalai Lama … “to meet
the challenges of our times, human beings
need to develop a greater sense of
universal responsibility.”
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Superintendent
Kindergarten Students
Prepare for First Bus Ride
Kindergarten students enjoyed their first ride on a school bus at the Elementary Kindergarten Orientation programs held in August 2012. The district
welcomed approximately 190 children into its kindergarten program for the 201213 school year. Pictured are a group of McKee Elementary kindergarten
students.
New Gold Card Club
Members Welcomed!
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District Thanks
2012 Retirees for
Dedicated Service
The West Allegheny School District
continues to acknowledge employees as its
most valuable resource with a formal
employee recognition program initiated in
2002. Since then, those reaching specific
milestones in their years of service (10
through 35 years at 5-year intervals) are
honored annually with a dinner and gifts.
The district extends its sincere appreciation to the following 2012 retirees: George
Beck, middle school custodian; Carol
Bonnar, Communications Coordinator;
Shirley Chadish, maintenance; Nancy
Hartman, high school Social Studies/
Psychology teacher; Sue Martin, middle
school Resource/Language Arts; Patricia
Matvey, Wilson teacher; Rebecca
Schroeder, Wilson nurse; Raye Ann
Sklarsky, McKee teacher; William Welsh,
McKee teacher; and Michael Zinski, middle
school Instructional Support teacher.
Elementary ESL Teacher
Earns Doctorate Degree
West Allegheny elementary English-as-a-SecondLanguage (ESL) teacher Erin Dierker has completed the
requirements for a doctorate in the Instructional
Leadership and Management Program at Robert Morris
University. The final step was the successful defense of
her dissertation entitled “A Model for Summer Programs
to Address the Needs of English Language Learners in
Pennsylvania Public Schools” on March 28, 2012.
Dr. Dierker was hired in 2005 and traveled between the
three elementary schools until the 2009-10 school year.
She currently teaches English as a second language at
Donaldson Elementary School.
Dr. Erin Dierker
West Allegheny Cavalcade
of Bands is October 27
The West Allegheny High School
Marching Band and Band Parents will
host the 33rd annual Cavalcade of
Bands Competition at the high school
stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2012
beginning at 6:00 p.m. The following
marching bands will compete in classes
grouped by numbers of musicians:
Blackhawk, Fox Chapel, McGuffey,
Moon, Serra Catholic, and Trinity.
West Allegheny and the Slippery Rock
University Marching Band will also
perform. Judges will rate and rank the
bands in the areas of music, visual
effect, and general effect.
West Allegheny’s 2012-2013 show is
titled “Brazil” which includes “Brazil,”
“Blue Bossa,” “Rio,” and “Mas Que
Nada.” The Drum Major this year is senior
Joey Bandi.
The band competed at the Pennsylvania
Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) shows at Moon Area High
School on September 29 and will compete
at Gateway High School on October 13.
The group will perform at the PIMBA
Championships at Penn Trafford High
School on November 3.
Tickets for the Cavalcade on October 27
will be available at the gate at $8.00 for
Adults, $4.00 for Students and Senior
Citizens. For more information, contact T.J.
Fox, high school band director, at 724-6955279.
The horn section of West Allegheny’s Marching Band provides entertainment
during the half-time show at DeMichela Stadium.
Buildings and Grounds Facilities Care Goes Green
The West Allegheny School District
Buildings and Grounds Department began
its green initiative in late 2008. Its program
includes a district-wide recycling program
and energy and water conservation
protocols, all with the goal of reducing
overall waste.
The District recently completed an
analysis of several commercial cleaning
product lines for placement within each
school’s custodial department. During
this analysis, the effectiveness of the
product, employee safety, and the green
certifications were identified as paramount
in the selection process. A comparative
pricing analysis was conducted among
the green product lines to find the most
economical solution as well. Residual
waste and warehousing costs were also
considered. Ultimately, the Green Seal
Certified product line, as provided by
Buckeye International, was selected for
use in the District.
West Allegheny started the 2012-2013
school year with the new system fully
integrated into the cleaning program at
three schools, West Allegheny Middle
School, McKee Elementary and Wilson
Elementary. The green products will be
phased to the two remaining schools,
West Allegheny High School and
Donaldson Elementary, as the previous
product line is expended. It is expected
that all District custodial departments
will be “green” by the start of the 20132014 school year, at which point the
District’s cleaning products will be
Green Seal-certified, with the exception
of the disinfectant product.
Scott Smith of Buckeye International
collaborated with Director of Buildings
and Grounds Kenneth Fibbi to create a
simplified yet comprehensive cleaning
system that utilizes three standard
products. This has helped to reduce the
upfront purchase cost to the district by
over 30% and has reduced warehousing
costs as well. In previous years there
were as many as 12 standard products
used in the custodial department. An
added benefit of streamlining the product
line is the reduction in the residual waste
from product packaging, which is
enhanced further through a unique
product packing system called Smart Sac,
a storage bag system which is fully
recyclable and uses 60 percent less
plastic than a rigid container.
Prior to the start of the current school
year, every custodian received training
with the new product line on its proper
use and product safety. During this
training seminar, Buckeye International
presented West Allegheny School
District with a Green Seal certificate for its
commitment to environmental responsibility.
For more information regarding West
Allegheny Buildings and Grounds
Department, please check our webpage
at www.westasd.org under Facilities.
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Director of Buildings and Grounds
Student Named Principal
Percussionist for European Tour
West Allegheny High School student
Daniel Hovanec was named principal
percussionist for the Pittsburgh Youth
Chamber Orchestra (PYCO) Performance
Tour of Salzburg, Vienna, and Prague
from July 16-July 24. The orchestra
group toured the cities, performing
concerts in historic venues.
The orchestra’s first performance was
in Salzburg, Austria at Basilica St.
Michael in Mondsee, the site of the
wedding scene from the movie, “The
Sound of Music.” The group traveled to
Vienna, Austria to perform at
Peterskirche (St. Peter’s Church), a
baroque church filled with ornate golden
stucco, featuring original painted
frescoes. The performance in Prague,
Czech Republic was in St. Salvator
Church, a restored 17th century
structure.
Daniel has been a percussionist with
PYCO for two years. The PYCO’s recent
local performance was at Carnegie
Hall in Oakland titled Latin American
Fiesta and was filmed for broadcast
on WQED. The mission of the PYCO
is to provide a chamber music and
chamber orchestra instruction and
performance program, and to expand
opportunities for young talented
musicians, while sharing the enjoyment of making music with the
community.
The PYCO is an energetic and
dynamic group of young talented
musicians ages 13 to 21, fully committed to the highest degree of musical
beauty in their performance of the
classical, alternative, and contemporary music repertoire for chamber
ensembles and chamber orchestra.
Daniel Hovanec, principal percussionist with Pittsburgh Youth Chamber
Orchestra, pictured at Peterskirche
(St. Peter’s Church) in Vienna,
Austria.
Kindergarten-Plus Extended Day
Program Instituted at Wilson Elementary
Wilson Elementary began offering an
extended enrichment kindergarten program
at Wilson Elementary for the 2012-13
school year as a supplement to the halfday regular session. The KindergartenPlus (K-Plus) Program is designed to
provide kindergarten children with a fullday kindergarten experience, with a variety
of enrichment activities that correlate with
the curriculum being taught in kindergarten. Emphasis is placed on simple reading
and math concepts, while the children
enjoy fun games and activities.
The nonprofit corporation Extended Day
Services (EDS) of Upper St. Clair offers the
enrichment course, with a certified teacher
reinforcing the skills that are taught in the
regular classroom. For the 2012-13 school
year, EDS is operating a morning K-Plus
class followed by the afternoon session of
kindergarten. Children enrolled at
Donaldson or McKee Elementary Schools
are eligible to attend the Wilson K-Plus
program, but must provide their own
transportation back to their home school.
Students enrolled in the program pay a
fee of $72.50 per week directly to EDS.
There is no cost to the District for the
program and EDS rents the classroom
space. There are currently 24 children
enrolled in the program for this year.
Kindergarten students Nikoletta Jaram, Avery Gentile, and Ashlee Lebak create an
apple-themed art project in the K-Plus classroom.
McKee Fifth Graders Train for Bus Patrol Duties
McKee fifth graders visit the kindergarten classroom to learn important
safety rules for their bus patrol duties.
A group of fifth grade students at McKee Elementary
returned to the kindergarten classroom to participate in
bus patrol training on August 31, 2012. Bus patrol duty
was designed to assist kindergarten students as they
navigate their way through the school building to and
from the bus and to ease any anxiety they may have as
they begin their educational experience. The training
session provided participants with the responsibilities of
the position, reviewed bus safety rules along with
appropriate student behavior, and encouraged forming
relationships with younger students. The fifth grade
students were selected based on their interest and their
demonstrated past responsible behavior. McKee Principal
Tom Orr, guidance counselor JoAnn Biscan, and kindergarten teacher Mariann Bertocchi coordinated the training.
Substitutes Needed
The West Allegheny School District is in need of substitutes for the following positions:
teachers and nurses; support staff positions, including
custodians, instructional paraprofessionals, clerical workers, and cafeteria workers
To apply as a substitute teacher or nurse, please visit the district Web site at www.westasd.org. Select Employment Professional Openings
To apply as a substitute for a support staff position, please visit the district Web site at www.westasd.org. Select
Employment - Support Openings.
Classroom Activities
Celebrate Patriot Day
School Year Begins
with Annual Open House
Donaldson Elementary students in Ellen Campbell’s morning
and afternoon kindergarten classes celebrated Patriot Day on
September 11, 2012. Students wore red, white, and blue
patriotic attire, listened to a book about America, and completed a book report. The classes made a patriotic garland to
decorate the hallways.
Classroom activities and academic lessons in all of the
buildings commemorated the day.
At the middle school, social studies teachers Mindy Killen
and Josh Bears led their classes in a discussion about the
anniversary of the 9/11 attack.
In the United States, Patriot Day and National Day of Service
and Remembrance occurs on September 11 of each year in
memory of the lives lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. On this
day, the President requests that the American flag be flown at
half-staff and to observe a moment of silence.
McKee Elementary welcomed students and families with an
Open House on September 20, 2012, offering opportunities to
meet with the teachers and administrators, visit the classrooms, tour the building, and join the PTA. Superintendent
Dr. John S. DiSanti visits with Amy, Emily, and Martin Durkin.
Donaldson Orientation
Features Building Tours
Donaldson teacher Ellen Campbell’s kindergarten class
displays their pride in America with Patriot Day activities.
Back to school preparations at Donaldson Elementary School
included an orientation program on August 14, 2012 for new
families, like Michael and Blanche Damon and their daughter,
Natalie. Parents received information, met the staff, and had an
opportunity to tour the building.
Added Safety Measure Tip Hotline:
724-695-5235 for reporting concerns
Peer Mediators Help Classmates Resolve Differences Amicably
A group of West Allegheny Middle
School eighth graders were trained as peer
mediators at the middle school on August
6 and 7, 2012. The workshops they
attended focused on leadership skills,
communications, methods of expressing
feelings and needs, listening, problem
solving, ways to improve the school
environment, and taking responsibility for
their own actions. Participants learned
how to help their peers resolve differences
peacefully. Students also took a pledge to
behave in a professional manner, be fair
and honest, and keep disputants' information confidential.
During the year the trainees will apply
what they learned as conflicts arise. They
will meet with both parties involved and
work toward a peaceful, mutually agreeable solution.
The group also visited the Linsly
Outdoor Center near Raccoon Creek State
Park on September 18 to take the high
ropes course as part of their preparation as
peer mediators. The course offered a series
of challenges designed to encourage
students to work as a team, bond as a unit,
overcome individual fears, persevere
Eighth grade peer mediators Morgan Hoffman, Gabriella Hatch, Michael Crawford,
and Mitch Fullard practice their mediation skills in a role playing activity.
through difficulties, and recognize
strengths in themselves and others.
The trainees then returned to school to
apply what they learned in their social
interactions and mediation efforts.
Since 1994, eighth grade students
have been trained in techniques for
resolving differences amicably. In 1998
the “Big Brothers and Big Sisters”
component was added to ease the
transition from fifth grade to middle
school. Middle school guidance
counselor, Jeff Kiser, coordinates the
program.
Respect and Anti-Bullying Message Shared at Wilson
Wilson Elementary kicked off the Olweus Bullying
Prevention Program (OBPP) on Friday, September 7,
2012 with an assembly and fun-filled day of antibullying activities. All students and staff wore their
purple OBPP t-shirts provided by the Wilson PTA.
The assembly, I Love This School, was a high-energy,
interactive musical concert with messages of antibullying, respect, and leadership. The fifth graders
stood and pledged to maintain a bully-free environment. All classrooms held their first OBPP classroom
meeting following the assembly. Other classroom
activities included painting a ceiling tile with an antibullying message, creating a classroom banner, and
active learning activities focused on team building,
leadership, and communication. The day concluded
with the Peaceful School Bus Program, a program
designed to decrease inappropriate behavior on
school buses while creating a climate of respect and
cooperation. This program was coordinated by Kathy
Taylor, Wilson Elementary guidance counselor.
Wilson Principal Dr. Kathy Sites with assembly performer Billy Craig (back
row) share their enthusiasm for a bully-free environment with Wilson
students and staff.
West Allegheny Teacher Attends
Microsoft’s Partners in Learning U.S. Forum
West Allegheny High School
business and computer technology
teacher Pamela Volakis was honored by
Microsoft Corporation for her innovative use of technology in the classroom. She was selected as one of 102
educators to attend the Microsoft
Partners in Learning 2012 U.S. Forum
for the creative ways she is integrating
technology in and beyond the classroom.
Volakis and other educators traveled
to Microsoft’s campus in Redmond,
Washington, July 31 through August1
to showcase the creative ways they are
transforming learning through technology. An unprecedented number of
applications were submitted this year,
and the chosen innovative projects
represent 25 states across the Pre-K–12
spectrum and include creative uses of
blended learning, student video game
design, professional development,
flipped classrooms with students
teaching their peers, and improving
communications skills for those with
autism and other special learning needs.
Volakis was selected for her project,
titled MATH BINGO, where programming students designed a learning game
using XNA Framework and Microsoft
Visual C#. As gaming programmers,
participants were required to collaborate
with teachers and other students on the
project.
Five finalists were selected at the
Forum to represent the United States at
Microsoft’s Global Forum this November
in Prague, Czech Republic. Although
Volakis did not place as a top finalist, her
attendance at the forum earned a free
classroom subscription to BrainPOP, an
animated education site for students.
Additionally, she won Microsoft’s
Kinect for Xbox 360 game system for
classroom use.
Volakis has been teaching programming and business courses at West
Allegheny High School for 18 years. In
addition to teaching, she is an advisor
Business and computer technology teacher
Pam Volakis presents her MATH BINGO
exhibit.
for FBLA and the technology facilitator for
the high school and has partnered with the
University of Pittsburgh in the College in
High School program and Carnegie Mellon’s
Robotics Department to test teaching
programming with robots (FINCHES).
Seniors Introduce Sixth Graders to Cross Country
Pictured at Settlers Cabin Park following their race are (front) Haley Hamilton,
Stacia Shaytar, Dakota Gerst, Madison Lisotto, and Grace Faulk; (middle) Adelle
Collins, Logan Malatak, Ty McGeary, Nick Faulk, Ben Schaupp, Justin Shaytar, and
Tom Bruni; (back) Coach James Hamilton. Other West Allegheny sixth grade
runners not pictured include Gabby Burke, Juliana Dominick, Nathan Dragisich,
Jimmy Ervin, and Emily Siwula.
West Allegheny seniors Tom Bruni and
Adelle Collins completed their senior project
with a summer activity for West Allegheny
Middle School sixth graders. Tom and Adelle
designed and implemented a program to
introduce the students to the sport of cross
country running. With fitness workouts
emphasizing technique and speed, they
taught the students how to run properly.
Participants met twice each week for
practice over the summer and ran in three
local races--the Findlay and North Fayette
Township 5K races and a cross country meet
with Holy Trinity Catholic School at Settlers
Cabin Park on August 20, 2012. The
students also learned the importance of
personal fitness and how running can be an
enjoyable way to develop endurance,
stamina, and self-esteem. Cross country
coach James Hamilton supervised the
program.
Golfers Participate in World Championship
Two West Allegheny students participated in the
U.S. Kids Golf Foundation World Championship
from August 2-4, 2012. Played at Pinehurst Resort in
Pinehurst, North Carolina, the U.S. Kids Golf World
Championship is the largest and most prestigious
event in the world for players 12 and under. This
three-day tournament attracts over 1,200 participants from across the United States and more than
30 countries abroad. Players qualify for the World
Championship through World Championship
qualifiers, local tours, European and regional
championships, and performance in previous World
Championships.
West Allegheny Middle School seventh grader
Paige Colicchie qualified to participate for the
second year by competing in four tournaments with
the U.S. Kids Golf Pittsburgh Summer tour, playing
in the highly competitive field of 12-14 year-olds.
She competed at Pinehurst in a field of 88 golfers in
Paige Colicchie
Zac Ziolkowski
the 12-year-old division.
The U.S. Kids Golf Foundation was established in 2001. The vision of the U.S.
McKee Elementary fifth grader Zac Ziolkowski
Kids Golf Foundation is to provide students and their families the opportunity
traveled to Pinehurst for the second year to
to participate in the game of golf through instruction and competition. The U.S.
participate in the competition. Zac finished with
Wilson
students commence
Kids Golf Foundation
conducts over 600 local, regional, national, and internarounds of 76, 79, and 77, to tie for 39th place out
of Elementary
Opening Ceremonies of Track and
tional
events.
140 participants in the ten-year-old division. the
Field Day. Pictured are Jake Spinelli,
Britney Wilson, Brayden Krek, and Ben
Reno.
Visit the school district Web site at www.westasd.org for updates
regarding school information.
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IMPERIAL BOY SCOUT COMPLETES EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT FOR VALLEY CHURCH
PHOTO BY PAT JENNETTE
Nick Hower of Imperial recently completed the requirements for his Eagle Scout award by refurbishing some exterior portions of his
church, Valley Presbyterian Church, on Main Street in Imperial.
He removed four flowerbeds that had rotted away
over time, replacing them with new flower beds. He
also resurfaced the sidewalk and the front and side
entrance steps, and installed a water barrel for
watering the flowers.
He received assistance and donations from a variety
of local businesses, church members, and others in
order to complete the project.
Nick was notified in late summer that his Eagle
Scout project was a success.
A senior at West Allegheny High School, Nick is
also a member of the school’s Junior ROTC as well as
a member of the German Club. Nick went with the club
this past summer when they traveled to Europe.
Nick is also a member of Civil Air Patrol Squadron
603, located at the 911th Airlift Base in Moon Township.
He is the son of Michael and Lynne Hower.
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The move of the West Allegheny Food Pantry and Thrift Store to the location on Route 30
brought needed changes. Instead of clients standing outside in inclement weather, there is now
a waiting room. Instead of cramped spaces where it was difficult to shelve food and some nonfood products for distribution, the Pantry now has shelving where products are easily distributed.
Expenses total approximately $4,500 a month. Because of the economy, funds are dwindling
and there is a need to establish a Fund Raising Committee.
Currently, there are some activities at the schools and across the community to help the
families that are served by the Pantry.
Businesses have and will undoubtedly continue to “pitch in” by giving back to community by
sharing. It still comes down to the individual (included within the schools and the businesses as
well).
Your response to need, especially at this time in current history, will help keep families in their
homes, put food on their tables, and be an important part of life as one of the thousands of
neighbors in this area.
When you buy food for your family, perhaps an extra can or
two os something, or another box of cereal
wouldn’t break the budget. Each time you take a
fork-full of meatloaf and potatoes, another
family in the neighborhood can, too, if you
help, because caring really is so inexpensive. Or, if you prefer, monetary donations
can be sent to: WEST ALLEGHENY FOOD
PANTRY, 520 Route 30, Imperial, PA 15126.
Food Pantries are not places where one
has to admit inadequacies. FOOD
PANTRIES ARE PLACES WHERE
NEIGHBORS ARE CARING FOR
NEIGHBORS.
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EAGER HANDS HELP BABIES AND MORE
STORIES AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED
over the creation of the blankets,” writes Lyn.
She said, "It is almost sad to see this time end for baby blanket
making."
The good news is the crafters have now turned their talent to
the current project -- scarves.
They will donate the scarves to the West Allegheny Food
Pantry this winter.
Knitting patterns are available on Montour’s Web site:
www.montourschurch.org.
If one shares a knitter’s passion, Eager Hands welcomes others
to join in or to simply share knitted creations made from home.
Yarn has been donated so it is available for hands to transform
it to its ultimate end use.
AREA STUDENT WINS STAGE HONORS
“Eager Hands” did it! Thirty handmade baby blankets and 30
baby hats were made and blessed.
A passion for knitting and crocheting gave birth to a group with
purpose for passionate women at Montours Presbyterian
Church.
Fellow knitter, Lyn Grimm, writes, "We are all amazed by the
outpouring of talent for this project."
Linda Sagan spoke with a woman from the Choices Pregnancy
Center. When Linda mentioned that Montours was making baby
blankets and hats to donate, along with baby bottles filled with
spare change for the center, she was told that the center was
completely out of blankets to give to babies and moms.
“It gives me and, I hope, others, such joy to be able to say ‘yes’
to God's call to take some thread and a pair of needles or a
crochet hook and spend hours changing that thread into a
blanket or hat that a little baby will use to stay warm. Not just
warm from the blanket but also warm from the prayers we prayed
Kelsi Curtis, a student of Pittsburgh Pro
Performance located in Imperial, recently
won national honors.
Kelsi won regional Miss Senior On Stage
America in February, then went on to win
the national Miss Senior On Stage America
overall title. She was also their senior
scholarship winner and was selected by
XIST talent agency for an audition for a
national performance dance company in
New York City.
Kelsi was Pittsburgh’s I Love Dance
overall senior high score champion for 2012.
She is the daughter of Ken and Sharon
Curtis.
Read us online! Past issues of all 3 Editions are on our
Web site, www.alleghenywestmagazine.com
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STORY AND PHOTO SUBMITTED
DONALDSON STUDENT RECEIVES KEY TO CITY
Bria Allen, age 10, a fifth grade student at Donaldson Elementary, was sponsored by Jackie Timmerson and the Missionaries
of First Baptist Church of McDonald to attend the Lott Carey
Foreign Mission Convention held in August in New Orleans.
Bria was accompanied by five other West Allegheny students:
Bria Roney, 17; Kennedi Roney, 14; Danielle Clark, 15; and
Brionna Jordan, 13.
The convention consisted of classes teaching them why
helping others is important, different ways to help, and how to
help in their home communities. The afternoons consisted of
mission work in communities throughout New Orleans. They fed
the homeless, helped the elderly, assisted with disaster recovery
and rebuilding and much more. To start the week off, the girls
had dinner with 300 homeless people of New Orleans, who were
given dinner banquet tickets by the Lott Carey Organization.
Bria's mission was to fill back packs with school supplies for
sheltered children and those in orphan homes, which were
delivered by Bria, and many other children in her age group. She
also made up emergency preparedness kits for the homeless in
case of a natural disaster. These were picked up by an American
Red Cross representative.
Daily, from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Bria showed passion,
dedication, and commitment toward helping others. Her hard
work throughout the week was recognized and brought to the
mayor’s attention. During closing remarks, Bria Allen was
honored by Mayor Mitchell J. Landrieu and presented with the
key to the City of New Orleans.
Because of her good works, she was also recognized by many
in her community, including Dr. Del R. Boni of Boni Orthodontics, where her picture was taken and will soon be hung on a wall
in the office.
Bria's parents are Gary and Rolanda Williams.
Bria, along with the other girls, are now collaborating on how
to apply what they've learned during their mission trip in order to
help those in their communities.
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BY DOUG HUGHEY
PHOTOS BY
CHRISTOPHER ROLINSON,
DOUG HUGHEY,
AND HISTORICAL MEMORABILIA
ABOVE: Spouting oil well derrick in
McDonald, late1800s. (from “The Oil
Well Driller: History of the Oil Industry
of the World”).
ABOVE: Attending the dedication in September of the historic marker identifying McDonald as a major player
in the oil industry are, left to right, State Representative Jesse White; Tim Thomassy, former McDonald
Councilperson; Kathy J. Flaherty, ABARTA Oil and Gas; Dave Nicksic, president, McDonald Area Redevelopment Committee; Marilou Ritchie, President, McDonald Borough Council; Terry Bennett, McDonald Mayor;
Andrew Masich, President and CEO, Heinz History Center. PHOTO BY DOUG HUGHEY
2
ver the past three years, Pennsylvania has experienced a boom in
natural gas exploration, driven as
much by technological advances
in a drilling technique known as
hydraulic fracturing as markets for cheap
energy and plastics. Hydraulic fracturing
involves using large amounts of pressure,
chemicals, sand and water to free natural gas
from shale deposits thousands of feet below
the surface. In communities across Pennsylvania, the economic impact from natural gas
drilling operations has been significant and
measurable.
For many communities in southwestern
Pennsylvania, however, this most recent
boom in energy exploration is hardly their
first. The region has long been a source of
coal, and many communities were introduced
to the petroleum industry as early as the late
19th century, back when the U.S. was still a
major world oil producer, and western
Pennsylvania its single largest oil producing
region.
For a time, a feverish oil boom descended on
an area bordering on Allegheny and Washington County, which encompassed parts of
North Fayette, Moon, Robinson and
Coraopolis. In less than three years, over a
thousand wells were sunk into the area,
swelling Pennsylvania’s annual production to
an all-time high of 31.4 million barrels. Just
three miles across at its widest point, and
about 11 miles long, the field produced 12
million barrels in a twelve-month period, due
in part to gushers that set initial production
records still standing in the Appalachian
Basin today. Called McDonald, the field draws
its name from an unsuspecting farming and
coal mining community sitting at its center.
Decades before the advent of the Model T,
when a byproduct of petroleum distillation
known as gasoline was dumped in rivers,
most oil produced in Pennsylvania was sold
as kerosene, supplying markets across Europe
and as far away as Russia. A new middle class
emerging from the industrial revolution
created a domestic market for a range of
petroleum-based products, to which Pennsylvania crude, high as it was in paraffins, and
low in impurities, was particularly suited. From
it, companies produced everything from
bubble gum to machine lubricants.
By the time the McDonald field was being
tapped, though, geologists with the United
States Geological Survey were warning that
the state’s reserves had become tenuous.
Those reports fueled a new breed of muckraking journalists in New York, who decried the
nation’s growing dependence on a limited
RIGHT, TOP: The old train station in McDonald, from the
collection of Mike Mitko. Note the oil wells dotting the
landscape in the background.
RIGHT, BOTTOM: This photo shows the interior of H.W.
Rank’s blacksmith shop in McDonald, used for making oil well
tools. (from “The Oil Well Driller: History of the Oil Industry of
the World”).
natural resource controlled by a consolidated sphere of wealth. It
was a characterization of the early petroleum industry, formulated
largely by events in Western Pennsylvania, that would stick with it
to this day.
Standard Oil, led by legendary industrialist John D. Rockefeller,
encompassed a vast trust of interests exacting near absolute
control over the transportation, processing, and sale of Pennsylvania crude. From afar, the company nickel and dimed producers in
the oil drilling regions, where profits were scarce, swindlers were
common, and drilling was driven not by geologists, but “scouts”
hired to spy on rivals, and wildcatters with a so-called nose for
finding oil.
In 1891, a wildcatter named John H. Galey, following reports of oil
near McDonald, sunk a well into a sandstone formation a little over
2,000 feet below the surface. It was considerably deeper than the
average depth of most wells drilled towards the beginning of
Pennsylvania’s oil boom, and turned out to be the single largest
producing oil well yet discovered. A boom descended thereafter,
and exemplified everything that was both great and terrible about
the modern petroleum industry.
******************************************
If nine-year-old Kate Campbell wasn’t in hell, then she was sure
that this was what it most surely would be like, because it resembled very closely the version described to her in Sunday school
class.
The flame shooting into the air illuminated the dark town of
McDonald with an alarming and ominous orange glow. A gusher of
an oil well producing upwards of 100 barrels per hour had ignited
when an ember wafted off a train passing on the nearby Panhandle
Rail Line. It was a possibility the well’s owners had failed to
account for when placing the derrick. As a result, for the next six
days, they and the rest of the town watched as an estimated 14,400
barrels went up in smoke. Even with oil fetching a mere $.56 at the
time, it was still a loss of $8,064, or over $190 thousand today.
Before the advent of modern zoning laws, or any type of environmental regulations impeding the feverish oil boom sweeping the
region, little care had been paid to the placement of many of the
dozens of wells drilled in the borough of McDonald. By late 1891,
derricks peppered the landscape, towering in backyards and town
lots, sometimes mere feet from houses and buildings. One was even
erected next to the United Presbyterian Church. Covered in an oily
sheen, the McDonald Outlook described the church as “blackened… like some medieval ruins.”
Spraying oil at times poured off roofs like rain, pooling and
soaking into the ground and running into Robinson Run, where
more was at one time believed to have flowed than water. One
opportunistic individual named W.P. Rend, reported The Outlook,
made $20,000 – the equivalent of $479 thousand today – simply by
damming up the stream and skimming off the oil. A scarcity of
water, coupled with the plummeting price of petroleum, led one
reporter from Frank Lesley’s Weekly to report in 1892 that it in
McDonald, it was now possible to trade a barrel of water for a
barrel of oil.
“No borough ever made such a mistake as this when it allowed
the derricks into the borough,” commented The Outlook that same
year.
Drillers lined up rigs along property lines, as if not just to protect
their own leases, but to also tap into their neighbors’. It was a race
that had been played out often enough across Western Pennsylvania, with winners recovering as much oil as possible before
prices plummeted, or the field ran dry, and the rest losing fortunes.
As in other fields, Frank Lesley’s Weekly reported that in
McDonald, “…only a handful will come out ahead.”
In September of 1891, the McDonald field reached a production
level of 13,000 barrels per day, and by November 5, was gushing
84,300 barrels per day. Much of that production came from within
and around McDonald itself. In just six months, the number of
wells across the field had exploded, from two to roughly 300.
McDonald’s central rail line now played a vital role, as Standard
committed its vast resources. An average of 150 tons of pipeline
and materials for holding tanks was shipped in daily. Shops
building tanks worked over night, and men capable of assembling
them were brought in from as far away as New York and Chicago.
McDonald’s population exploded, from about 1,500 to 10,000
BELOW: From a post card displaying Main Street in McDonald during the oil boom,
circa 1911.
RIGHT: The James Mevey Farm sported the largest white sand oil well in the world
in McDonald. (from “The Oil Well Driller: History of the Oil Industry of the World”).
BOTTOM: Landscape of the town of McDonald during the oil surge. Note the
numerous oil derricks along the landscape. (from “The Oil Well Driller: History of the
Oil Industry of the World”).
Disturbed our rest in the midnight hour
As men drilled and bored to find the oil
That was hidden beneath our garden soil.
people. Its new, eclectic population consisted of oil workers,
wildcatters, speculators, and curious sightseers. Hotels opened
to serve them, and so did illegal speakeasies, which by 1892
numbered more than any other town in Washington County. The
Outlook complained about the frequent fights that broke out in
such establishments, where forward thinking barkeeps had
installed screens over the bars to shield them when the bottles
started flying. Temperance became the subject of Sunday
sermons, and the newspaper filled its pages with court announcements involving arrests over the illegal proffering liquor.
The biggest concern first and foremost for many residents,
however, was the devastating fire that many were sure was
imminent. In a poem later printed in the McDonald RecordOutlook, former resident and schoolteacher Alice May describes
how such fears pervaded everyday life:
For derricks rose up almost in a night
And turned the town into one of fright.
For time and time again the cry of FIRE
When a Standard pipeline running to the United Presbyterian
Church’s well broke, it started a fire that consumed one house, but
spared others. Residents brought the occasional lawsuit against
drillers for damaged roofs and property, but by 1892, as derricks
began disappearing from the landscape, The Outlook expressed a
sense of relief:
“By great good luck we are now almost through…without a
disastrous fire,” though the boom had, “cost some of our citizens
a world of trouble and not a little money.”
That fragile sense of security was shaken on July 4 when oil
workers set off nitroglycerin on a nearby hillside. More fires were
still to come.
In 1893, crowds rushed through a torrential downpour after a
lightening bolt ignited an 800-barrel holding tank on the Ed
McDonald farm. While some men worked to build berms against
flowing oil, others gawked at the traveling tornados of fire it
produced.
A year later, when two boilers exploded on the James Moore farm
3½ miles outside of town, residents looked around the immediate
vicinity for the cause. When a well caught fire on North
McDonald Street in 1901, it left residents watching helplessly as
the flames encroached on a line of nearby homes.
As in other boomtowns across Pennsylvania, the economic
impact was dramatic, as The Outlook points out:
2LO:HOOV6WLOO
ABOVE: South West Penn’s pipelines at Gregg’s Station. (from “The Oil Well
Driller: History of the Oil Industry of the World”).
“McDonald has never before shown such signs of permanent
prosperity…Men are now willing to put their money into new buildings
and we have many fine residences going up…A year of Hades we’ve had;
we may hope for a thousand of peace and prosperity now.”
By 1892, the town not only already had a number of hotels, including the
Valentour and Buchheit, but also the First National Bank of McDonald,
and a growing S.H. Cook business block. B.D. Tillinghast’s machine shop
had settled in town after starting out in Oil City towards the beginning of
the state’s oil boom. In 1895, the town’s central lumberyard changed
hands and became the McCarty and Robb Lumber Dealers.
By 1893, the Light, Heat and Power Company supplied the town with
electricity, and by 1894, there was a new waterworks, a new fire hose
company, and a modern, $25,000 schoolhouse. The United Presbyterian
Church moved out of their old, oil-soaked church, and constructed a new
brick sanctuary using royalties from its oil wells – both which turned out
to be gushers producing 50 barrels per hour – at the corner of Lincoln and
Station Streets. The First Presbyterian Church, likewise, constructed a new
brick church. On South McDonald Street, the large, brick, multi-story
Shane Cook and Valentour Thomassey buildings lined either side by 1910.
By then, a trolley line also ran to Oakdale, and speakeasies founded
during the boom had become legitimate, licensed establishments in hotels.
“McDonald is now one of the best towns in Washington County,” so
goes a description of the town published in the 1910 book, History of
Washington County. “There are paved streets, substantial business
blocks, handsome residences, two electric light plants, and a water works
and the inhabitants enjoy all the conveniences of modern life.”
Some Pennsylvania oil boomtowns had been abandoned when their
fields ran dry, or worse. Among the more talked about was Pit Hole,
outside of Titusville, where town property sold for millions one year, and
buildings were burned to collect on insurance payouts the next. The
amount of development in the years following McDonald’s boom indicates the direction its residents wanted to take with theirs. McDonald, and
the field bearing its name, had made national news, with gushers large
enough to prompt the first real threat to Standard’s hegemony, in the form
of a multi-million dollar pipeline construction project headed by William L.
Mellon. Between Venice and Coraopolis, 1,640 wells were drilled into the
field, which by the turn of the century had few if any new ones.
Pennsylvania’s overall annual production sagged, then leveled, from over
31 million in 1891, to a little over 12 million.
Earlier this year, an official Pennsylvania State Historical Marker was
dedicated to commemorate the McDonald Oil Field. A plaque now sits at
Heritage Park along Lincoln Avenue just outside of downtown. During the
dedication, Tim Thomassy, whose grandmother Kate Campbell recounted
the incident of the Cook well fire she witnessed to him, pointed out that at
one time, the first oil wells in McDonald could be seen and heard on a
nearby hillside. Now that they’re gone, what remains is the town that oil
built.
PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER ROLINSON
OO'RWWKH/RFDO&RXQWU\VLGH
ABOVE AND LEFT: You see them in unexpected places, and in some cases, they sit alongside the road as you drive by them. They’re
oil wells, and they represent remnants of a time in western Pennsylvania history when the oil boom defined how some of this area
secured its place in history due to the economic boom the oil wells brought. Many of the local wells still put out oil, and are owned by
individuals who tap their reserves regularly. These photos around the airport area communities were taken by photographer Christopher Rolinson, a photography professor at Point Park University and owner of StartPoint Media. Can you identify where they are?
BY EMILY BASTAROLI
PHOTO SUBMITTED
WA Alum Hikes Pacific Coast
From the Mexican border, through the desert, across the Sierra Nevada
and Cascade Mountains, through Washington and into Canada, West
Allegheny alumnus Steve Gabriel and his wife, Alice, hiked 2,650 miles.
Since Steve Gabriel was a young boy, he enjoyed spending time
outdoors with his dad and two brothers as members of Boy Scout
Troop 248, backpacking and hiking local trails in Western Pennsylvania . Now, he and his wife, Alice, have tackled the trail with the
greatest elevation changes of any of the American National Scenic
trails, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The PCT runs 2,650 miles from
the Mexico border to British Columbia, through California, Oregon,
and Washington.
“It is a physical challenge, spiritual journey, and a great adventure,” said Steve.
Steve, 28, of Imperial, and Alice, 27, of Columbia, Maryland have
been hiking the PCT since April 22, and were on target to reach the
end of it in September. They began their hike along the Mexican
border in Campo, California, traveled through 250 miles of desert,
the Sierra Nevada, the Cascade Mountains, up through Washington, and eventually ended in Manning Park, British Columbia,
Canada.
Both Steve and Alice have been backpacking for about 10 years.
Steve’s mother, Margie Gabriel, said Steve was very involved in
Boy Scouts and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Gary Gabriel,
Steve’s father, said that he and “The Boys” had backpacked the
Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico twice and then Steve’s
brother, Brian, took a summer job at Philmont. Once Brian
convinced him to join the staff at Philmont, Steve became more
involved in the outdoors. At Philmont, Steve met Alice. Two
summers later they worked at Philmont again together, where they
were engaged.
Alice had already hiked the Appalachian Trail and really wanted
to hike the PCT, said Gary.
“Hiking the PCT was Alice’s dream; Steve may not have hiked it
if not for wanting to support Alice and her passion to accomplish
this goal,” said Gary of how Steve was encouraged to do the hike.
There was a lot of planning and physical conditioning involved
to prepare for the hike. While Steve said they have been planning
the actual hike for a year, they have been saving up money for
about two years so they would have enough funds to hike and
live after quitting their jobs. Contrary to popular belief, said Steve,
it is very affordable to hike. For a thru trail hike like the PCT, an
individual only needs about $5,000.
Steve and Alice lived very frugal lives in order to save up, said
Margie. They found jobs within walking distance of their home,
and rode their bikes for transportation so they did not have to
spend money on fuel. They also chose to live in smaller homes
and apartments to save money on rent.
Then there was the physical conditioning that went into
preparing for the extensive hike. Steve said they are on the trail
20 to 40 miles a day with less than a day of rest, so the hike is
very physically demanding.
“This is easily the most physically intense thing we have ever
done,” said Steve.
In order to prepare their bodies, they spent a lot of time biking,
running, and skiing. They also spent time hiking the Adirondacks
in upstate New York.
In addition, Steve and Alice also had to research the proper
gear to use. They searched the internet for blogs from other
hikers giving advice on what worked and what did not, said
Steve. They also had to work out an itinerary.
“It’s a pretty ambitious plan to do this,” said Gary, explaining
the careful planning that went into the hike.
Both Steve and his parents said Alice planned the large
majority of the hike, since she had previous experience. She
wrote out a rough schedule for where they should be on certain
days so they would not run into bad weather, could buy groceries and pick up and send packages at the nearest post office.
Steve said that every hiker has a data book listing the post
offices along the trail to receive and send packages and supplies,
as well as local grocery stores.
While on the trail, hikers have to always be a few steps ahead,
sending along food and supplies they will not be using to the
next post office to pick up when they hit the next town. Steve
said that at most of these post offices there are boxes of supplies
and food hikers do not need and leave for others. There is a lot of
support for the culture and hikers on the trail, said Gary.
Most hikers, including Steve and Alice, rely on “trail magic,”
anything a hiker or local does for the other hikers, such as
leaving extra food or water, leaving a cooler of beer, or offering
rides into town. Steve said people on the West Coast are
generally more generous, nice, and excited. They make the hikers
feel like celebrities, he joked.
Margie told a story of when Steve and Alice came across some
trail magic. Their group ran out of food, so when Alice found a
hut, she asked if they had any food they could buy from them. At
first, they said no, but when Alice said they were hikers, the
people in the hut told them that they had plenty of food for
hikers, and for them to take whatever they needed.
Steve also said that when they crossed into Oregon on July 30,
they were hitchhiking to town. A woman picked them up and took
them to get coffee and donuts. She then took them to her house
so they could shower and do laundry.
“They’re having a great time. They’re meeting some very cool
and strange people,” said Gary.
In addition to the trail magic, Steve said the most exciting thing
that happened was finally finishing hiking through California, a
big milestone. They finished hiking the Sierras, 250 miles of “really
big” mountains, the hardest part of the trail, and crossed into
Oregon. Steve also said being in Yosemite was “the coolest
thing,” even though they did not get to spend much time there.
Since 95 percent of the trail is national forest, they would sometimes end up in a national park like Yosemite.
Steve and Alice did not have much time to stray away from the
trail on side trips, except for one. They climbed Mount Whitney,
the highest peak in the lower 48 states. Steve said this was a big
side trip, and almost every hiker climbs Mount Whitney.
While on the hike, Steve said they came across a lot of wildlife,
but nothing too strange. They only saw a few bears, but mostly
deer. There were also a lot of lizards and rattlesnakes in the
California deserts. Steve said they also saw a lot of marmots in the
Sierras, which look like “beavers with busy tails.”
While Steve said he and Alice didn’t argue and got along very
well, they faced other challenges. For the first six weeks, his
parents said they did not have a tent for shelter, just a tarp.
However, they would camp out in small RV parks in town, or
stay with some of Alice’s family who live in California. They
also ran into some gear blunders, like hiking boots falling apart
before they could buy new ones. Steve said they did not run
into many problems running out of food or water. But it was
difficult while they were in the desert in Southern California
because water sources were 15 to 20 miles apart.
The biggest pitfall of the trip, Steve said, was the mosquito
problem travelling through Yosemite.
“That was the only time I really wanted to go home, which is
not like me,” he said.
Other than the mosquitos, Steve was very positive about the
hike, and was genuinely excited about the way things went. He
plans to do more hiking in the future.
“The highlight [of the hike] was getting to experience the
West Coast from an intimate point of view,” Steve said, “and
getting to learn what people are like; getting to interact with the
everyday ‘West Coaster.’ ”
To learn more about the Pacific Crest Trail, visit pct.org.
BY DOUG HUGHEY
PHOTO SUBMITTED
ABOVE: West Allegheny grad Amanda Holl poses with artwork she has donated to the WA's upcoming art auction. Other donated artwork includes
pieces by Rachel Goldstrom and Sam Shephard.
Ever since the No Child Left Behind Act was signed into law in
2002, the federal program meant to measure the performance of
public schools and improve failing ones has left school districts
scrambling to improve math and reading while maintaining
subjects from history to art to music. A federal mandate operating on a premise that one skill set leads to gainful employment
implies that others do not, largely because they can’t be measured by standardized testing.
Over the past five years, as the has country endured the worst
financial crisis since the Great Depression, over 70% of schools
receiving public funding in the U.S. have been forced to make
cuts to programs falling outside of NCLB’s provisions. Emerging
is an era in which private money fulfills many functions of
government, evidenced now in schools in part by pay to play
programs and other forms of outside funding.
Following that trend, and in an effort to show that the arts are
indeed economically viable, the West Allegheny Visual Arts
Program developed an idea for an online auction featuring work
and creative services donated from alumni artist and the community. Proceeds will cover a shortfall in funding for the program’s
annual art show budget.
The idea started when Assistant Superintendent Dr. William
Englert suggested that art teacher Carol DeWitt apply for a grant
to cover that shortfall. Carol teamed up with fellow art teacher
Mike Short, a West Allegheny alum, to write the grant.
“It could be an entrepreneurial opportunity,” Carol said. “It’s a
way to get your work out there and really see what it’s worth.
And it’s a way to help make the art show sustainable.”
Carol and Mike developed the idea, and included it as part of a
visual arts portion of the department’s application for the Grable
Foundation’s STEAM Education Grant. Over the past three
years, the school has received a total of $25,000 from the
foundation to fund various aspects of the art department. This
year, for the first time, $5,000 was awarded to the visual art
program to get its auction site up and running.
Plans as of now are to launch the website in March, before the
2013 art show begins, with funds generated benefitting the 2014
show. Helping to design the site, and mentor computer science
students who will maintain it, is Penn State University graduate
and West Allegheny alum Eric Kinney. Eric has developed similar
websites for artists prior.
The first to donate artwork was recent graduate Amanda Holl, a
former advanced placement art student who now attends Temple
University’s Tyler School of Art under an art scholarship. A
longtime music prodigy, Amanda didn’t start focusing on art until
her senior year, after she completed courses at the Columbus
College of Art and Design. She hasn’t looked back since.
Among the pieces Amanda donated is a hand-stitched rendition
of street artist Banksy’s “Flower Thrower.” Standing over six feet
tall, the piece is as much a comment on mass-produced, viral
artwork as it is a feat of patience and dexterity. The handstitched image, Holl says, consumed 300 hours and 900 yards of
thick grade crochet yarn.
Dooner Sadauskas and Bryan Custer of Up in Arms Tattoos
and Piercings, who also both graduated from West Allegheny,
and whose skin art has attracted a month-long wait list, have
pledged their services. The two recently moved their shop from
its old location across from the high school to Moon, where they
are now operating on Carnot Road off University Boulevard.
By the time the 2014 art show rolls around, it will have featured
work from hundreds of students, many of whom went on to
promising careers as artists, designers and architects. The show
is a long-standing tradition started by art teacher Linda Hilbish,
and was originally held in the school’s gymnasium. For ten
years, it was hosted in the Findlay Township Community Center
in Imperial, but recently made a comeback with the completion of
the school’s new gymnasium. Each year since, says Carol, the
department has tried to integrate additional disciplines.
Plans as of now are to keep the auction open until May, and to
possibly integrate the online gallery into the upcoming 2013
show. The program will be looking for donations from the
community in the form of artwork and creative services in the
near future.
PHOTOS BY G. PAUL DeBOR
Oakdale celebrated its 120th
Anniversary in September in
grand style -- live performances, a spectacular
parade, food, booths, and a
fireworks display all took
place during the weekend
event. There was even an
1890s costume competition,
along with kids’ activities,
and a closing service on
Sunday, September 9.
Among the performances
were the acoustic duo of Paul
DeBor and Jay Koreny, West
Hills Symphonic Band, Dave
Iglar Band, and the
Pittsburgh Banjo Club.
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A new parking ordinance was adopted by the borough council
in September to restrict parking in the business district of
Oakdale to two-hour customer parking only.
The business district area begins at 105 Clinton Avenue
proceeding into downtown Oakdale and on Noblestown
Road from the Robinson Street intersection to the Union
Avenue intersection. Parking is also restricted in borough
owned lots between the Oakdale Inn and the Rock and the lot
adjacent to the Oakdale Diner.
All business owners and employees within the borough are to
park their vehicles in the parking lot of the Rock. Parking signs
are posted. Warnings and tickets will be issued.
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Have you considered purchasing a firearm for the first time? Do
you already own a firearm and you’re unsure how to properly
and safely, use, clean, and store it?
The North Fayette Township Police
Department will host a firearms fundamentals and gun safety program geared toward
teaching those wanting to learn how to
safely own a firearm. It will cover basic
firearms types, proper handling, storage
options, safety principles, basic maintenance, and liability concerns. The course
will begin with classroom time, and will be
followed by live firing of firearms on the
range.
Certified firearms instructor, Corporal Michael Hayes, assisted
by other members of the police department and volunteers, will
run the course. Anyone wishing to attend this course must first
attend the Refuse to Be a Victim Seminar®, also taught by
Corporal Hayes.
The award-winning crime prevention and personal safety
seminar, Refuse To Be A Victim®, will be offered at Pittsburgh
Technical Institute, 1111 McKee Road (North Fayette campus).
The seminar lasts three to four hours and includes refreshments.
Choose from one of these dates: November 7, 8, 14, or 15,
starting at 6 p.m. The seminar is open to the public and free of
charge. Pre-registration is required. Class size is limited.
For more imformation or to register for these programs, contact
Corporal Hayes, at (412) 787-8900 or nfpdmh@north-fayette.com.
Or, leave name, address, phone number, and e-mail at the North
Fayette Police dispatch center, 400 North Branch Road. The
dispatch center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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The intersection at Route 30 and Clinton Road has been under
reconstruction, necessitating detours for drivers. The road is
expected to reopen on October 10.
Improvements at the intersection, once complete, will make
turning at the intersection, especially for larger vehicles, much
easier.
BY PAT JENNETTE
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Panama is the southernmost country of Central America, a place
where approximately 80 percent of church leaders have not had
biblical or theological training. Bibles are distributed en masse,
and Panamanians are eager to learn to use them and learn more
about their faith. Sadly, not enough trained leaders or churches
are in place to carry on the mission from bible in hand to learning
its teachings.
West Allegheny alumni Jon and Bianca (Lucente) Fowler are
hoping to do something about that.
The couple met while students at West Allegheny High School
and performed together in some of the early school musicals. Jon
was also very active in athletics, playing basketball and football.
Bianca was involved in various music programs, using her
beautiful voice in the school chorus and at church. After
graduating (Bianca in 1996 and Jon in 1997) they went on to
pursue bachelor degrees. Bianca earned a bachelor’s degree in
church music and Jon completed his bachelor’s degree in
religion.
The Fowlers have since engaged their energies in church and
ministry efforts.
The couple set up their home in the South Hills of Pittsburgh,
where Jon was hired out of college as the youth minister for the
South Hills Bible Chapel back in 2001. While there, Jon was
introduced to mission work through a church-sponsored trip.
Their church had sponsored mission trips to Panama where they
supported mission work for some time. Jon was hooked. He
explained, “God stoked a fire in me.”
He took a class called Perspectives, offered at his church,
which opened his eyes to the potential for and need for mission
work.
Several years later, in 2006, Jon joined 46 others on a return trip.
While there, Jon explained, “I built friendships with Panamanians
who expressed their need to start churches so that their people
could learn more about and study the bible.”
All the while, Jon and Bianca’s family was growing. By now tjey
had two sons, Ethan and Ezra. And the couple talked more and
more about using their talents for mission opportunities. Jon had
friends in Eastern Europe who spoke of mission needs in Russia.
Soon he and Bianca were talking about the potential to serve
there. In 2008, their church paid to send them to Russia to explore
the possibility. They spent their time ministering to orphans.
However, as Jon explained, “it was just then that we realized that
we could see ourselves serving anywhere and not only Russia.”
Explained Bianca, “I was supporting Jon, yet I knew we were
happy with our life as it was, with our home, our children, our
family. It took a lot of praying together before I was on board
with the idea of becoming involved in full-time mission work, but
God changed my heart and made me ready.”
Finally, after considerable discussion and prayer, Jon and
Bianca made the decision to sell their home and belongings and
move to Chicago. There, Jon would pursue his master of divinity
degree at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
The four-year, intensive program immersed their family in a
multi-cultural, life-changing environment, where they lived in a
small apartment on campus.
Bianca assisted with campus activities and mission efforts, and
took care of their two sons while Jon studied. They found out
they were expecting their third son, Elijah, two days before
moving to Trinity. As their family grew, so did their excitement
about the next step in their journey.
Said Bianca, “It was such a remarkable experience living on
campus at Trinity; we were surrounded by a community of all
nationalities who were studying with their families to do ministry
all over the world.”
“I had by now built even stronger relationships with my
Panamanian friends, and knew just how desperately they needed
churches and church leaders,” Jon said.
Last year, Jon took the entire family to Panama. It was Bianca’s
first time to visit the place that her husband had grown to love.
And it cemented what they felt was God’s calling to do ministry
in Panama.
The couple decided to research various mission agencies. They
discovered the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA)
mission agency called ReachGlobal. Currently, ReachGlobal does
not have any missionaries serving in Panama, so the Fowlers
would be the first RG staff to begin ministry in that country.
Jon graduated earlier this year with his Master of Divinity
degree. The Fowler family moved back to Pittsburgh, where they
are staying with Bianca’s mother and stepfather, Diane and
Randy Schultz, in Hopewell. They are now preparing for the next
step in their journey as missionaries.
The family recently returned from an introductory trip to South America to
explore schooling and housing and other aspects that will become their life
when they move. Now, they need to raise start-up costs and ongoing monthly
support, large or small, so that they can
begin planting churches and training
leaders in Panama.
As Jon passionately pointed out,
“What if you knew that hundreds or
thousands of people one day heard the
Gospel and became Christians but
there was not a church in your town for
them to grow in, would you help? And
what if you knew that if you could get
those new Christians on buses to hear
solid Bible teaching but when you
arrived, you learned the pastor had
never even had any real Bible training?
Would you help?”
Jon and Bianca are hoping they can
be that link for the people of Panama.
To that end, the Fowlers are hoping
to meet people and churches and
organizations in the community this
year to tell their story and ask for
support, no matter how small.
To share their journey and educate
others about their efforts, Jon and
Bianca have established a blog,
www.Followingthe Fowlers.com. Those
who are interested in following their
journey or learning more can go to the
STARTING, TOP LEFT: Bianca with two
site and sign up to receive their updates
Embera Indian girls on the Chagres River;
Jon and Darinel, a Christian leader in Panama;
via e-mail.
Bianca and Jon as Kim and Conrad in West
To offer support, e-mail:
Allegheny’s musical, “Bye Bye Birdie;” the
Jon.Fowler@efca.org.
Fowler Family; the Fowler’s three sons,
Ethan, Ezra, and Eli, visited the West
Allegheny High School football field recently
to see where their parents attended school.
NETTIE’S STORY BY PAT JENNETTE
ALICE’S STORY BY JOCELYN GRECKO
PHOTO BY PAT JENNETTE
PICTURED: Alice Bolind,
left, and Nettie Prosser,
right, before riding in the
Findlay Township parade
in August.
1(77,(
With a firm handshake and a warm smile, lifelong Clinton
resident Nettie (Hamilton) Prosser moves quickly and nimbly
across the sidewalk and into her home that fronts Route 30.
Nettie has been around awhile – 100 years, in fact. In sound
health, her mind is sharp, and so are her memories. The small
home office where she once served local customers still looks as
it did when she stopped working there at the age of 94 – the
typewriter at the corner desk, the glass display cases that once
displayed candies and gifts, the decidedly Republican regalia
that hangs from the walls, even the large steel safe that held her
late husband’s jewelry projects sits regally near the front door.
People around town needing something notarized between the
1980s and 2006 would remember visiting Nettie. Whether it was
power of attorney papers, wills, licenses, or other documents,
Nettie aptly took care of each customer, always with a positive
attitude and a friendly smile. Up until two years ago, people were
still calling her for their notary needs.
Winking, she said she’s proud of the fact that she has only
lived in three places her entire life, and all of them in Clinton.
She recalls, “I lived on the farm with my family, and we would
milk the cows in the morning then go on our milk route where I
would help my dad deliver the milk in a horse-drawn wagon
around Clinton before my dad would drop me off at school.”
If she wasn’t milking cows, Nettie would hoe the corn or feed
the chickens.
When she wasn’t attending school or working on the family’s
farm, she would play croquet with the farm kids, or they would
ice skate on Clinton Lake. She remembers playing horseshoes,
hide n’ seek, even tennis and baseball. And she remembers the
fun at the harness race track that sat behind Clinton Lake.
“There aren’t farm families today like there were then; farm
families were happy families,” she reminisces.
She had two sisters, Helen and Louise, who taught in the
Findlay Schools, a brother, Wilson, and an older brother, Robert.
As she says people’s names, she carefully spells them out,
H-E-L-E-N. No doubt being a good speller was quite important
when Nettie handled the notary work of many customers over the
years.
After she graduated from Findlay High School in 1930, Nettie
attended Duff’s Iron City College, a secretarial business school.
“My first job was working as a bookkeeper for my Uncle John
Wilson,” Nettie remembers. “He was a local car dealer and also
ran a school bus company for the local schools.”
After two years, he helped her secure a job at the former
Ambridge Lincoln Mercury dealership as a bookkeeper and then
as a notary there, where she worked for 25 years.
Nettie moved into her current home in 1970 with her husband,
Phil, whom she married in 1958.
She says, “I always wanted to have a store and Phil, my late
husband, always sold watches and clocks and repaired them, so
we opened Prosser’s Notary and Gift Shop in this house.”
The couple put an addition onto the house to accommodate the
business, which sits adjacent to the Findlay Township municipal
building.
She said the kids would come over after school (the current
Findlay Township municipal building once served as the
elementary school) and buy their penny candy. They couple also
sold gifts and cards.
Nettie would wait on the customers, young and small, standing
behind the glass display case. Her niece, Sue Purdy Hamilton,
notes that Nettie always stood while she worked.
Phil died in 1984 and Nettie eventually closed the gift and
candy portion of the business, handling only notary work for the
residents until the age of 94.
A member of Clinton United Presbyterian Church since she was
12 years old, Nettie was the lady around town for many years,
picking up the “older” ladies to take them to the church for
services and events. She did that until she was 99.
She is quick to say that driving was quite the adventure,
especially in her younger years.
“We always celebrated the holidays with relatives who lived in
Canonsburg, so we would go by carriage. My family told me that
one time we got hung up on the road and had to stay at a
stranger’s house overnight when my mom was nursing me!”
And when she was employed at Ambridge, they gave Nettie her
first car for free.
“That was really nice,” she says.
She traveled by car frequently with her two sisters over the
years before they, too, got married. Trips out West were common.
Nettie says, “Do you want to know something interesting? My
sisters and I all got married on the same date as our parents did –
June 20, different years of course!”
And during World War II, Nettie took care of the family when
their brother, Wilson, was in the service.
Today, at the ripe age of 100, she still lives independently in her
home with her dog, Lucky. She says she is quite fortunate to
have friends and family who look after her and spend time with
her.
Friends Rita and Ranie make it a frequent Friday night dinner
event at Nettie’s, and if it’s Nettie’s turn to do the cooking, she
chuckles, “I just order pizza!”
Friend Kay Thompson Bonnaure takes Nettie to her doctor’s
appointments, Joe Gorenc gets her mail, and Carole Malone
Messner gets her groceries.
Carole and her husband, George, live down the street and bring
her supper a lot.
It’s easy to like Nettie. Says her niece, Sue, “Nettie is a very
generous person, non-judgmental, and everyone likes her. She’s
been blessed with a good life and good health.”
“I’m very healthy, and in my entire life, the only thing that’s
ever happened is when I broke my wrist,” Nettie adds.
That spelled the end of her notary work. But then again, she
was 94.
“I’m a very lucky girl,” she chuckles, her dog by the same
name, sitting by her side.
Nettie quickly adds, “And did you know that Alice Bolind is
also turning 100? That’s B-O-L-I-N-D.”
$/,&(
One hundred years is a long time. It doesn’t take a historian to
explain all that’s happened in the past century. There have been
many unforgettable moments, many changes in the world, and
people have come and gone, but in one century there’s only
been one Alice Bolind.
The 100-year-old is a treasure and a unique find in the town of
Imperial. To Alice, life has been a journey, but she really hasn’t
had to go that far to find the joys of life. Alice has spent 95 of
her past 100 years living in Imperial.
“I can connect myself to any of the old folks around here,”
she said with a grin. With a heart full of hospitality and a smile
brimming from ear to ear, there’s no doubt that she has become a
friend to many in the past 100 years.
She remembered growing up in a family of six children,
attending St. Columbkille Church (where she is still a member),
playing basketball, and graduating from Findlay Vocational
School.
“It was a good place and a small town,” she said of her time
growing up in Imperial.
And because it was such a small town, she explained that
everyone knew one another, “It was a different time for sure.”
She remembered having to take the train from what is now the
Montour Trail to Coraopolis in order to get to Pittsburgh. From
there, everyone would take busses into town.
“There weren’t many people who drove,” she said. She likes
to think that’s one of the reasons why Imperial came to be such
a community. “People here would carpool for their travels.
That’s how everyone got connected.”
With a laugh, she remembered how she couldn’t wait to drive.
“I don’t even remember taking my test. I just got in the car and
would take people out to Raccoon Park!”
Even in Alice’s younger years, she didn’t stray too far from town. Until World War II, she
worked at the Imperial Post Office where her brother was the postmaster.
“I really didn’t work much until the war,” she explained. After that, she worked for some
time at Pittsburgh Forgings in Coraopolis.
In 100 years’ time, Alice learned the gifts of love and loss from those closest to her. Her
husband passed away shortly after World War II; after that, she married again. She also
gave birth to three children, Eleanor, Michael, and Lawrence (Buzz), whom she has said
raising and seeing their many successes has brought some of her proudest moments in life.
She is thankful for the joy her six grandkids have brought her.
“I’m so proud of my kids and grandkids. I always want them to do well,” she said happily.
When she stops and thinks of how much the world has changed, Alice said she sometimes wishes things could go back to the way they used to be. “I’d like to see prayer and
bible readings put back in schools,” she said.
Alice certainly has lived through many memorable moments, and with each of them she
has thrived. Although she never thought she would live to see this milestone. In each
moment, she is thankful. “I have no idea what the secret is!” she said, scratching her head.
“Every time I go to the doctor they just tell me, ‘whatever you’re doing, keep on doing
it’.” She still takes her friends out to the St. Columbkille, Findlay Township, and North
Fayette Senior lunches each month. “That’s why I want to keep driving,” she said.
One hundred years has been full of many surprises, but for Alice, in a century’s time,
some things never change.
“A small town is a lot better than a big city,” she said, reflecting on her life in Imperial.
And with a big smile on her face, she says she thinks she’ll stick around.
As 37-year residents of our community,
no one knows our neighborhoods better
to tell their stories than . . .
^
^
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
IN THE HEART OF
IMPERIAL IN PENN LINCOLN
PLAZA BY THE INTERSECTION
STORY BY JOCELYN GRECKO
PHOTO SUBMITTED
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Most parents are constantly on the go with their children – the
accident. “I ditched my crutches and just sat in the room and
routine involves school, practice, homework, then getting up the
prayed,” she said.
next day to do it again. They barely have time to take a step back
“What she did to keep the family together was absolutely
and be thankful for their time together. For Findlay Township
amazing,” said Todd. She stayed strong for her husband and
resident Todd Kosenina, it’s not that he doesn’t have time to run
their children, Evan, 9, and Addison, 6.
around or play sports with his two children, it’s the injuries he
When Todd was released from Hamot, he was transferred to
suffered from a tragic accident that keep him from being as active
Montefiore in Pittsburgh for 16 days. Eventually, he went on to
as he’d like. Although he’s missing
rehab for three weeks at Health
out on being able to throw a
South in Sewickley. “They had
football with his son, or carry his
to teach me to walk again. They
daughter to bed each night, Todd
had to teach me how to write
is simply thankful to have the
with my left hand because I was
breath of life, the chance to
right handed,” he said with a
embrace his wife and children, and
laugh. “I had to relearn everythe love and support he has found
thing.”
from his community.
Todd has also been working
Todd remembers last November
with Julie Bodnar, P.T., at
like it was yesterday. He was
Keystone Rehabilitation
heading north with friends for their
Systems, where he goes to
annual hunting trip when a terrible
therapy three days a week.
accident occurred. “We crashed… I
Although the accident has
remember seeing the lights on the
caused him to suffer from
truck go up in the air… I curled up
permanent injuries, he says his
into a ball in the back,” he recalled.
time at Keystone has strengthHe was the only person to
ened him. “I’ve come a long way
survive. It was a moment that
with them,” noting their tremenwould change his life forever and
dous support.
make him a living miracle.
The Koseninas say they are
ABOVE: Julie Bodnar of Keystone Rehabilitation in Imperial helps
Todd suffered from nine broken
extremely
thankful for the
Todd Kosenina through another round of physical therapy following
ribs, a collapsed lung, damage to
generosity
from the community
his accident.
his liver and kidneys, broken
during Todd’s recovery. Cards
bones, and head injuries. “The
and gifts were sent and prayer
doctors told my wife hopefully I could make it through the
chains started. Their parish, St. Columbkille, sent donations.
night.”
“I was born and raised here,” said Todd. “It’s amazing what
That night turned into a day, days turned to weeks, and weeks
the people of the community did.” At Christmas time, their
turned into months. It took 31 days for him to wake from his
neighbors went caroling to collect donations for the family.
induced coma at Hamot in Erie. “He got up on Christmas Day,
“There are some good and generous people out there,” said
which was the best present,” said his wife, Christie.
Christie.
In the past 10 months, Todd has overcome the odds. He said it
The journey ahead is bound to be bumpy, but it’s one Todd
wouldn’t have been possible without the support of his family or
welcomes. “Little things that used to bother me just don’t
of his healthcare professionals. While Todd was in Hamot,
anymore,” he said. “It’s just a blessing to wake up and go
Christie traveled to Erie each day. She did all this while trying to
outside … The little things you take for granted like walking
recover from knee surgery she had just 10 days prior to Todd’s
your kids to the bus stop. It’s just fantastic.”
PAID TO PLAY BALL
SCOTT PATTERSON
Former West Allegheny athletes C.J. Davis (WA ‘05) and Dorin
Dickerson (WA ‘06) were listed on the active rosters of NFL teams
ushering in the 2012 football season this September.
Three other professional athletes, football players Tyler Palko (WA
‘02) and Dave Brytus (WA ‘03) and major and minor league baseball
pitcher Scott Patterson (WA ‘97) are now or were in the “waiting for
the call” stage of their professional careers.
Dickerson, Davis, Palko, and Brytus all played at Pitt over the past
decade. Patterson graduated from West Virginia State before pursuing
a career in baseball.
Oakdale native Scott Patterson at age 33 is in the twilight of a
professional baseball career that has taken him in the past 10 years
from Boston and New York on the East Coast to San Diego, Seattle,
and Portland on the West Coast, with a couple of stops in between,
such as South America. Scott has also pitched in places like Gateway,
Illinois in Class D ball, where he got his start in 2002.
A tall, gangly right-hander, he can still throw a fastball in the low
nineties (mph).
Scott now resides with his wife on a parcel of rural land near St.
Louis. He still gets home to visit with family and friends, according to
his dad, an employee of Oakdale Borough. According to his dad, Scott
plans to do winter ball again in Venezuela then weigh his options for
next year. A number of teams have shown an interest in him.
TYLER PALKO
In high school, the Associated Press named senior Tyler Palko the
Big School Player of the Year. In all four seasons he was the quarterback, the Indians made the play-offs. They also won three WPIAL
titles, reached the state finals three years in a row, and capped it with
the AAA State Championship in 2001.
Tyler’s high school years were filled with many individual awards,
including All-Conference and All-WPIAL three years, two of them on
both offense and defense as well as All-State in 1999, 2000, and 2001.
He capped his high school career by being selected to play in the U.S.
Army All-American Bowl that was held in San Antonio, Texas in
2002.
One of the highlights of his stay at Pitt was throwing five touchdown passes against perennial football power Notre Dame in 2004.
No one had ever done it before or since. His college career numbers
rank right up there with Pitt and NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino.
Palko actually threw more TD passes -- 66 -- than Marino, yet his
career yardage figure was second to Marino’s.
Tyler signed with New Orleans after being overlooked in the 2007
NFL draft. Since then, he has spent time on the roster or taxi squad of
four NFL teams, a Canadian League Team, and a California-based
independent league team.
Last December, he was signed by the Steelers, dressed for one game,
and released again. In 2010, he played in one game for Kansas City
then played in four straight games for the Chiefs last year, three of
them as the starter. He was released again with three games left in the
season.
Tyler is currently working as a financial representative for Mutual
Finance in Pittsburgh, and does a weekly broadcast for Pitt Panthers
on Comcast television.
DAVE BRYTUS
In his senior year at West Allegheny, Dave Brytus was ranked
number five in the nation as a punter by Rivals.com., a scouting
combine. He was named to the Associated Press All-State first team
and was voted the most valuable special teams player at the Big 33
Classic, a rarity for a punter. He also kicked off and kicked extra
points and field goals. His strong leg earned him a scholarship to
Purdue University.
As a sophomore at the Big Ten school in 2005, he made first team
All Conference and was nominated for the Ray Guy Award that goes
to the nation’s best punter.
Needing to be closer to his family, he transferred to Pitt in 2006.
Again, his kicking brought him All-Conference honors, this time in the
Big East. Dave signed with the Baltimore Ravens and went to camp
with them in 2009. When the Ravens released him he worked out
with San Diego later that year. He is currently a free agent.
Dave is also a boxer and martial arts specialist of note in the area.
He can be seen helping coach the kickers at Joe DeMichela Stadium
when his schedule as a bodyguard for teenage singing sensation Austin
Mahone allows him to do so. Dave, however, reiterates that he will
definitely be interested in joining an NFL team again if the call comes.
DORIN DICKERSON
Dorin Dickerson’s athleticism and ability to play multiple positions
on both sides of the ball in high school were instrumental in his being
recruited by numerous Division One universities.
In 2005, during his senior season at West Allegheny, Dickerson
rushed for 1,429 yards on 182 carries, (a 7.9 yard average), with 30
touchdowns. He had 22 receptions for 423 yards, and six touchdowns.
The 36 touchdowns on offense led the WPIAL in scoring. He also
intercepted four passes on defense. Dorin was named the Associated
Press Player of the Year in Class AAA.
At Pitt, Dickerson played in eight games as a true freshman in 2006,
mainly as a wide receiver and on special teams.
His versatility got him moved over to the defense as a sophomore
where he played in all 12 games at linebacker or defensive back. He
was credited with 12 solo tackles.
In his junior year, he moved back to the offense as a tight end and
played in all 13 games. As a senior, he had 45 receptions for 508 yards
and was among the nation’s leading tight ends with 10 touchdowns.
Dorin was a consensus All-American and was the first tight end
named to the Heisman Trophy watch list in two decades.
He became the second player in West Allegheny history drafted by
the NFL when the Houston Texans selected him in the seventh round
in 2010.
In his brief three-year NFL career, the 24-year-old has been with four
different teams: Houston, the Steelers, the Patriots, and, as of this
writing, the Buffalo Bills.
C.J. DAVIS
Last but not least (size wise) of the current professional athletes
with ties to West Allegheny is Emmenual “C.J.” Davis Jr.
At 6’3”and 310 pounds, C.J. is an imposing figure in the NFL, where
300-pound linemen are common in this day and age of bigger, stronger,
and faster athletes.
C.J. starred at WA on both the offensive and defense lines after
transferring in from Campbell, Kentucky for his sophomore year in
2002. C.J. was a three-year starter at WA and a first team selection on
the All-Conference, all WPIAL, and All-State teams. The Indians
compiled an 11-1 record in his senior year and made it to the WPIAL
semi-finals.
C. J. started at left guard as a true freshman at Pitt in the last eight
games of 2005 and remained a starter on the offensive line throughout
his college career.
He went from the Pitt Panthers to the Carolina Panthers to start his
professional career in the NFL in 2009. Injuries plagued him throughout the 2009 and 2010 seasons. although he managed to suit up and
play in the last eight games of 2010. When the Panthers released him
from injured reserve last year, instead of resigning with them, the
Denver Broncos picked him.
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ABOVE: The local 12U team won the prestigious national travel ball
104-team Cooperstown Dreams Park Championship. Team members
include, first row, Steve Twardy, Zach Pilossoph, Trey Zeroski, Justin
Usenicnik, Cameron Pies, JJ Hartman; second row, Tim Zeroski
(manager), Logan Vietmeier, Mark Usenicnik (coach), Seth Rosen,
Alex Osborn, Connor Ollio, Nick McRandal and Michael Ollio (coach).
The tourney consisted of 104 teams from across the country and
Canada. The team ended the season with an overall record of 70-7
and won eight other tournaments throughout the country.
LEFT: Katelyn Cerciello, 15, of
North Fayette, bagged her first
coyote on September 23.
Katelyn and her dad called the
coyote in around 8:30 a.m. that
morning in the McDonald area.
The coyote weighed approximately 55 pounds and was
reddish in color. Katelyn is a
sophomore at West Allegheny
High School. She is the
daughter of Rich and Missi
Cerciello.
RESIDENT CLOSES CHAPTER ON MILITARY CAREER
A Pittsburgh resident prepares to close a chapter of his life,
only to open a new one. According to correspondence submitted
by Mia Kubatka, her brother, Michael J. Kubatka, has spent the
last 22 years serving in the military. Upon his enlistment in 1990,
he spent three years stationed at Travis Air Force Base in
California. While there, he worked as an aircraft and flight
mechanic for the 60th Generation Squadron’s senior airmen flying
on the C-5 Galaxy.
He transferred to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware where he
became a flight engineer for the 9th Airlift Squadron. It was there
he became the proud father of his two children, Alexander
Joseph, 10, and Catherine Elizabeth, 7.
JBMDL Air Force Base in New Jersey is where Michael has
called home for the past six years. He took his fourth deployment
to the United Arab Emirates, where he served as a refueler for
many military planes and became chief of training for the 2nd Air
Refueling Squadron. He spent three years there before moving to
the 305th OSS, where he spent the last three years of his career
as tech sergeant and flight instructor for the military.
Michael’s many accomplishments throughout his military career
include being selected as the Flight Engineer of the Year and
Flight Instructor of the Month, Quarter, Year, and AMC. He
served on the Air Force Honor Guard performing in parades and
PHOTO SUBMITTED
$URXQG<RXU7RZQ
ceremonies. He dedicated his free time to give presentations to
children in elementary schools, sharing his life in the military.
His military travels took him around the world to 45 countries
and throughout the United States from Hawaii to Maine. He
served in the Gulf War, Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as
the Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars. Michael even transported Presidents Bush and Clinton across the United States to
some of their most important destinations.
From the Oakdale Hose Company
The officers and members of the Oakdale Hose Company would
like to take this opportunity to let everyone know that October is
Fire Prevention Month. This year it is being recognized the week
of October 7 through 13. The theme for this year, “Have
two ways out!” focuses on the importance of fire escape
planning and practicing your plan. It is important to have a home
fire escape plan that prepares your family to think fast and get
out quickly when the smoke alarm sounds.
Sadly, each year many Americans are tragically killed in
residential fires. There are, however, some things
you can do to keep you and your family safe.
• Have multiple working smoke detectors on each floor of your
home and you should test them monthly. Additionally you
should replace the batteries in each detector yearly whether
they need it or not.
• Make a fire escape plan and practice the plan with your
family at least twice a year.
• Do a fire safety inspection on your home to identify and
eliminate any potential fire hazards.
These fire safety tips are just a few of the many you can do to
help eliminate the chance of a fire starting in your home. For more
information and tips, please visit the Web site, www.oakdalehose
company.org.
$URXQG<RXU7RZQ
STORY AND PHOTO SUBMITTED
RMU REACHES FUNDRAISING GOAL;
OPENS THE WHEATLEY CENTER
Robert Morris University held “Celebration2” last month to
mark the successful completion of the largest fundraising
campaign in RMU history in conjunction with the opening of
the Wheatley Center, the new building for the School of
Communications and Information Systems (SCIS) at the
university’s main campus in Moon Township.
The 50,000-square-foot facility includes an art gallery, a 3-D
design room, a screening room, computer labs, a café, and
more. It was named for Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784) a slave,
poet, and first African-American woman to publish a book.
The name was selected by SCIS full-time faculty and staff
and announced during the event.
The Wheatley Center is possible thanks to the $40 million,
Changing Lives, Building Futures fundraising campaign,
which also paid for the School of Business building that
opened last year.
“This building is symbolic of how the capital campaign has
contributed to the ongoing transformation of Robert Morris
University while allowing us to stay true to the mission and
core values that this community embraces like no other
university I've seen,” said Gregory G. Dell’Omo, president of
Robert Morris University.
More than 8,200 donors contributed to the university over
the course of the campaign, which launched in 2006. Other campaign
achievements include 30 new scholarship funds, the endowed
research center, and the RMU Research Center on Black Male
Educational Student Success, which is funded through a gift from
The Heinz Endowments.
The School of Communications and Information Systems includes
degree programs in communication, media arts, computer, and
information systems, English, and organizational leadership. Its new
building is part of a plan to give each of RMU’s five schools its own
dedicated space. The university soon will break ground on a medical
simulation center for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, set
to open in 2013.
#6EE6C@7+92?<DE@E96)6D:56?ED@7%@CE92J6EE6
This is a letter of thanks to the residents of North Fayette.
Our newly adopted rescue doberman ran away from home
when we attempted to hook her to the tie out. This seven-yearold female named Chyna had only lived with us for three days!
We were beside ourselves. Experts told me that a rescue dog
runaway was not uncommon as the dog experiences a great deal
of stress the first few days in a new home.
Throughout the search that day Chyna had shown her face to
us several times; however, she was not willing to return to us
and continued on her adventure. Several employees at the
North Fayette municipal building joined in the effort to track her
down. That night North Fayette police caught sight of her three
miles from home. I went after work the next day to try and track
her down; no sign of her was to be found. The police officer
stood with me and called her name until he had to leave to
respond to other commitments.
This was followed by a sleepless night worrying about our
new dog.
The next day, we were distracted at work with thoughts of our
missing dog but muddled through the day. After work I drove
through the neighborhood, and walked, calling out her name at
her last known location on Gamble Road. I was posting lost dog
signs and searching, with no sign of Chyna.
This became the turning point of the evening. A woman, her
young children, and other members of the neighborhood told
me what they knew about Chyna and even took me to the place
where she was last seen. Soon, more neighbors joined in. As our
search group grew to ten strong and it turned dark, a young boy
cried out, "I see eyes," as he searched with his flashlight. I
found Chyna lying down. She made no effort to walk toward me
until another search member handed me a magic can of dog
food. Chyna was at my side and I secured her with a leash! After
a brief examination we noted that Chyna was limping. She
climbed unassisted into the back of my vehicle onto a blanket
that another search member had provided. I was both relieved
and overwhelmed with gratitude for these very kind people.
I didn't even have words to thank them, I only had tears of
joy! When it was time for Chyna and I to go home, I found my
vehicle had succumbed to long hours of searching and
wouldn't start. Before I knew it, the hood had been lifted and
this search team jumped my battery! I didn't even know their
names but I knew that they were dog lovers and I decided that
they must also be angels. How could I ever begin to thank the
search members living on or near Gamble Road in North Fayette
Township? I am forever grateful! It is because of each and
every one of you in that neighborhood as well as the North
Fayette police, online resources, friends in high places that told
us exactly how to report a missing dog, and, of course, our
family that this story has a happy ending. We have learned that
it takes time to get a new rescue dog used to her surroundings.
We have installed a leash inside the house and the door is not
opened unless she is attached. We are also teaching her the
route between the house and the park so she can return if the
worst ever happens again. We have recorded the phone
numbers for Animal Control, Pennsylvania Vets Association,
and the Humane Society, and bookmarked Telephonepole.Org
and Craiglist where we will keep an eye out for similar lost pets.
The biggest lesson we learned is that when the chips are
down, and you really need help, you can count on the people in
this fine township. Don't kid yourselves, the North Fayette
Police Department and the neighbors who assisted in our
search living on or near Gamble Road are some of the nicest
people you can know.
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STARTING, TOP: DCI Career
Institute enjoyed a ribbon cutting
ceremony with Chamber
Ambassadors on August 29; the
team at LVIV European Kitchen
was joined by Chamber
Ambassadors for a ribbon cutting
ceremony on September 4;
Chamber Ambassadors gathered
with the team at Weinstein
Chiropractic for a milestone
celebration.
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BY EMILY BASTAROLI
PHOTO SUBMITTED
November 11, 2011 was a big day for the world. Everybody made
to completely change his diet, and continues to exercise. He
a big deal out of 11/11/11, and a movie with that same title
also has two types of insulin shots he uses every day, and he
premiered in theaters that day. For Mark Whaley, 11/11/11 was not
has to consistently check his glucose levels.
about superstitions or lucky numbers. It was the day
“I start and end my day by making
his life changed. On 11/11/11
my finger bleed and giving myself an
Mark was diagnosed with
injection,” Mark jokes.
Type I diabetes.
Although being diagnosed with
Although it was acute
diabetes has changed his life, he
pancreatitis that led Mark to
remains positive, and does all he can
the emergency room, he was
to help other diabetics and friends
experiencing diabetes-like
and family of diabetics. Mark said he
symptoms. He had extreme
dedicates a good portion of his
thirst, sweats, blurred vision,
Facebook page to diabetes
and waking up feeling sick. He
information, support, advice, and
would play softball and get
events. He also tries to encourage
sore and tire out easily, and it
other diabetics to get involved with
took him longer to heal from
the Red Riders to not only help the
minor injuries.
cause, but to help them stay
Before being diagnosed with
healthy. Because it is difficult
Type I diabetes, Mark very
living with diabetes, and hard to
quickly ran out of energy,
control the disease, it is harder for
because “the body does not
diabetics to ride the lengthy
produce insulin, a hormone
courses in the Tour de Cure.
needed to convert sugar, starches
However, Mark never gave up or
and other food into energy
got discouraged.
needed for daily life,” according
“Hundreds of people are
to the ADA Web site.
reaching out to me,” Mark says
Since being diagnosed with
as he talks about all the people
diabetes, Mark, who lives in North
asking him for advice on
Fayette Township and is the sales
Facebook. He genuinely cares
manager at Deihl’s Automotive
about helping others suffering
re.
(formerly Mick’s Dodge-ChryslerCu
de
from diabetes, as well as their
ur
To
the
y at
nk and Mark Whale
Jeep in Robinson), joined the Red
ABOVE: Gregg Fra
family and friends, because his
Riders, a team of diabetics who ride
family, friends, girlfriend, and
in the Tour de Cure every year. The
co-workers have been so supportive of him.
Tour de Cure is a biking event fundraiser for the American
Mark encourages others to sign up for the Tour de Cure. For
Diabetes Association (ADA). This year, the event was held on
the diabetics, they can become a Red Rider and non-diabetics
June 24, and of the 600 riders, about 50 of them were Red Riders.
can join Team Red to help support the cause. This year, his first
“I wanted to show people with diabetes that they can exercise
year as a Red Rider, Mark raised over $4,000 for diabetes
and live a normal, healthy life,” said Mark.
research. The average amount raised is $400.
After his diagnosis, Mark read a book, “My Diabetes Organizer”
And, he went from being hospitalized with acute pancreatitis
by Gina Barbetta and Valerie Rossi, which encouraged him to join
and being diagnosed as a diabetic to being an Ultimate
the ADA. He also wanted to get involved with the cause as much
Champion for Diabetes and wearing the #11 on his Red Rider
as possible. So he used the ADA Web site as a huge source of
jersey, all in seven months. He rode and completed the 30-mile
information. That is how Mark found out about the Tour de Cure
course in this year’s Tour, and plans to ride the 50-mile course
and the Red Riders, and the other big ADA event, the Step Out
next year.
walk.
Explains Mark, “I am not alone. Sometimes diabetes is a
Mark also found answers to his many questions on the ADA
lonely disease because people don’t understand it. When you
message boards. Since Type I diabetes is the rarer type of diabetes see another Red Rider, you know you’re not alone. Also, non– only 5% of diabetics are Type I – not many people know too
diabetics are showing their support.”
much about it. However, through the message boards, Mark was
“I’ve kind of become a champion of diabetes,” Mark says
able to connect with other diabetics and gain more information.
with a huge smile on his face.
However, Mark learned how to live as a healthy diabetic. He had
To get involved and for more information, visit
www.diabetes.org.
CHILDREN
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PHOTO SUBMITTED
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Mike Nadik, a 2012 graduate of West Allegheny High
School and the Welding
Technology program at
Parkway West CTC, recently
stopped in to visit with Mr.
Reis, his former welding
instructor. Mike was on his
way to begin the commercial
underwater welder program at
Diver’s Academy International in Eriel, New Jersey.
Underwater welding has been
a specialized career interest
of Mike’s throughout high
school, as certified underwater welders can make as much
as $50,000 a year to start.
While enrolled in the
Welding Program at Parkway,
Mike earned American
Welding Society certifications in shielded metal arc
Welding, known as “stick”
welding, and gas metal arc
Welding, known as “MIG”
welding.
During Mike’s senior year, he worked at Heat Exchange &
Transfer, Inc. in Carnegie through the cooperative education
program.
Since graduating in June, he had been working full-time at
E.A. Fab Corporation in Oakdale. Now, however, his dream of
being a commercial underwater welder is about to come true.
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The Tina Kokel Memorial Scholarship was established to
provide scholarships to deserving students whose families are
enrolled at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Coraopolis.
The students are granted scholarships based on their positive
attitude, strong work ethic, and consistency in demonstrating
love and respect towards their family, community and church.
The scholarship was established in memory of Ms. Tina Kokel,
a former teacher at St. Joseph Catholic School.
Two Holy Trinity students were awarded scholarships from
this fund. Second graders Isabella Cardimen and Sage Sonnett
received a total of $1,250.
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Through various fundraisers and hard work, the Holy Trinity
Student Council was able to raise more than $1,000 toward the
purchase of a SMART board at the beginning of the 2012-2013
school year. These interactive whiteboards enable teachers to
project movies, computer programs, and the Internet. Teachers
can also use colored pens to write electronically on the screens
to enhance learning. With this purchase, all but one homeroom
classroom in Holy Trinity has a SMART board. SMART boards
are also used in the computer lab and science lab. Holy Trinity
Student Council hopes to help purchase the last SMART board
to have one in every grade level homeroom classroom by the
end of the school year.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
PHOTO SUBMITTED
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In a recent Cross Country event at Settler's Cabin Park with
several area schools, Holy Trinity came away with several wins.
The Varsity Boys' team took first place, and the Varsity Girls'
team had an individual first place win. Both Boys' and Girls'
Junior Varsity Teams took second place.
Eighth grader Tara Richardson set the course record for girls
at 11 minutes and 27 seconds. “Richardson is a phenomenal
athlete,” says Mike Roberts, cross country coach. The former
Holy Trinity record was 12:05; Richardson had broken that her
first year by running 12:02. It's the course record, not just the
school record, that Richardson has set.
ABOVE: Students at Parkway Center Career and Technology Center
recently built the picnic tables, above, for the pavilion in Heritage Park,
McDonald. The picnic tables were a much-needed addition to the
pavilion area.
TOP: Tina Kokel Scholarship recipients Sage Sonnett and Isabella
Cardimen.
BOTTOM: Holy Trinity Student Council members stand in front of the
new SMART board they purchased for the school. Pictured, back,
Abby Minzer, Blair Bean, Joey Connolly, Michael Blake, Rachael
Kuchnicki; front, Francesca Rogers, Kolin Shaner.
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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS, ORGANIZATION, PRODUCT, OR SERVICE HERE! Just $120 for a black and white
business card, or $130 for a business card in color. No contract required. For more information, call (724) 695-3968.
COUPONS
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Full Time Security Officers needed
in the Moon/Beaver Area
Must meet minimum
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www.securitasjobs.com
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ABOVE: About two dozen dogs and
their owners came out to the firstever doggy days at the Hankey Farms
Pool last month. The event was held
just before the pool officially closed
for the season.
WPAHS’S ALLEGHENY GENERAL HOSPITAL LAUNCHES HEART FAILURE TRIAL
Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) is enrolling patients in a clinical trial exploring an investigational, implantable electrical stimulation device examining whether the technology can not only
relieve symptoms of congestive heart failure but slow the progression of this all-too-common
disease that is the leading cause of hospital admissions in adults over age 65.
The CardioFit system works by stimulating the vagus nerve, a key pathway to the brain. Vagus
nerve stimulation has long been used to treat epilepsy, but its potential in the treatment of congestive heart failure is a more recent development. CardioFit has already been tested in a pilot study in
Europe with positive results.
"At AGH and throughout West Penn Allegheny Health System (WPAHS), we are proud of our
leadership role in providing advanced care for patients with complex diseases of the heart and
blood vessels,” said Srinivas Murali, M.D., Director of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and
Medical Director of the Cardiovascular Institute at WPAHS.
WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL ATTAINS MAGNET RECOGNITION AGAIN
The Western Pennsylvania Hospital has attained Magnet® recognition for the second time as
part of the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program®.
Magnet recognition is the highest national credential for nursing excellence. West Penn Hospital
retains its place among the best of the best as part of the Magnet community—a select group of 395
healthcare organizations out of nearly 6,000 in the United States. It is also the first hospital in the
Pittsburgh region to be redesignated after earning its first designation in 2006.
“Magnet recognition is a tremendous honor and reflects our commitment to delivering the highest
quality of care to this community and beyond,” said Duke Rupert, president and chief executive
officer, West Penn Hospital.
Magnet recognition has become the gold standard for nursing excellence and is taken into
consideration when the public judges healthcare organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual
showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for
quality of inpatient care.
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PERSONAL
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By
Erma Dodd
North Fayette Township
resident
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Touchdown. Ryan's plane touched
down in New Jersey. Ryan Gilligan was
part of the big surge of troops being
withdrawn from Afghanistan in September.
Ryan -- husband, father, son, twin,
brother -- is home, USA. “oJoy” is the
one word to describe each loved one's
feelings.
Dad Ryan surprised his kids. They
heard the car coming and that signaled
mommy's home (from work). They went
running out into the yard to greet her and
then, then, daddy appeared. What joy.
Jonathan, age 4, hugged and hugged, said,
"I love you so much, I missed you,
Daddy.' Six-year-old Kyleigh, well, she
couldn't let go, daddy's little girl.
Only a twin knows the "twin thing."
Kelly Britton, WA second grade teacher, is
Ryan's twin. "You have no idea. No stress
now, free of stress and worry. I can be....
bubbly."
A tip back home to West Allegheny, to
family and friends will hopefully also be
highlighted by a seat at a Steeler game.
Steeler games were on at 3:30 a.m. in
Afghanistan. Ryan was gearing toward
coming home and much had to be done, so
he wisely chose sleep at 3:30 a.m.
Army touchdowns and Steeler touchdowns -- reasons to celebrate.
No one can tell Ryan's story better than
he can:
Our lives are shaped by our experiences
and those experiences are very much a
part of who we are.
Many would have a difficult time
volunteering to serve our country in a time
of war, but that is exactly what I did. I felt
the duty to serve.
At the time I volunteered, I had only one
deployment, to Iraq. Many of my brothers
and sisters at arms had multiple deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
It was an easy decision for me to make,
but difficult for my family to understand.
I felt like it was my time to go and take
some of the burden off my brothers. Plus,
the experience would help me to relate to a
lot of my patients returning from deployments, enabling me to better understand
what it is they had to go through and the
challenges they faced when they came home.
I am in the Army Reserves and in my
civilian occupation I work as a physical
therapy assistant in a soldier specialty care
clinic at Fort Drum, New York.
Fortunately, I have a very strong wife.
Deployments are just as hard, if not harder,
for our families at home. I could not have
done it without her. Jessica knew this was
just something I had to do and she supported me all the way.
While in Afghanistan, I served as a combat
medic. I worked with a Civil Affairs Team
whose goal was to help bring stability to our
area of operation.
We worked hand and hand with the local
populace, tribal elders, and government
officials to help resolve issues and legitimize
the Afghan government.
Our team worked hard to help out whereever we could, whether it was bringing small
projects to the area, facilitating training for
erosion control, protecting livestock,
informing tribal elders of various programs
available through their government, or
encouraging the local populace to interact
with local government officials through
shuras (meetings) at the District Center.
Our hard work and discipline was greatly
appreciated by our chain of command and
made a huge impact in our area.
(Ryan was promoted to SFC Sergeant First
Class in July while on deployment.)
We could not have done it without the
support of our maneuver element. We were
there with them every step of the way,
trudging through wadi's and flooded fields,
climbing up mountains, pulling security, and
even helping out with the mundane details on
our combat outpost.
We quickly eamed the trust of our maneuver
unit and they folded us into their family.
Without that relationship we wouldn't have
accomplished all that we did.
It is wonderful to be back home. My
mission ended in September. I have so many
memories, both good and bad, of the time I
spent in Afghanistan and Iraq, but overall the
experience was worth it and I have no regrets.
I met some really amazing people and shared
some experiences that most will never know.
The guys were an inspiration to me, giving
me strength and courage when I needed it.
We helped each other to get through a lot of
tough and stressful times.
These men are making and will continue to
make great sacrifices to protect our nation
and its interests.
I will continue to pray for them and their
families as I get ready to start a new chapter
in my life. I will truly miss those who paid
the ultimate sacrifice. I am undoubtedly
looking forward to supporting and providing
care for our returning troops and wounded
warriors.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a
man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13
Signed,
6)&5\DQ5REHUW*LOOLJDQ86$UP\
Jennette Communications Group
15 Walnut Street, Suite 101
Imperial, PA 15126-1226
IN OUR
WK <($5
Publishing in the
Airport Area
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
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PITTSBURGH PA
PERMIT NO. 5605

Allegheny West Magazine

Transcription

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