IN Harborcreek

SPECIAL: Harborcreek Home Improvement

Harborcreek

SPRING 2013

ALSO INSIDE! Harbor Creek School District News

Harborcreek Township News

Region’s only trauma center

Award-winning cardiac care

Dedicated women’s hospital

On-site, specialized stroke team

The region’s largest network of family medicine providers

More than 220 specialists

World-class care. You can always count on it.

UPMC Hamot has been consistently listed among the nation’s high-performing health care providers by organizations like U.S. News & World Report and Truven Health Analytics. No other provider in the region can provide the level of care that UPMC Hamot delivers — from women’s health to orthopaedics to heart care.

Why would you choose to go anywhere else?

For more information, visit UPMCHamot.org.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

ek Home Harborcre SPECIAL:

ent Improvem

IN Harborcreek is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Erie County area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

2013 SPRING

INSIDE

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IN Harborcreek | SPRING 2013 | ek Harborcre News Township DE! ALSO INSI k Cree News Harbor Dist rict School

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Circulatory Centers The Standard of Excellence in Vein Care

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GE Federal Credit Union Gail Cook and Carl Palotas Discuss an Exciting Announcement ........... | 13

Brevillier Village The Aging Population ................................ | 37 ON THE COVER

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

| Harbor Creek student Kayla Farrell proudly shows her creativity.

Other talented students pictured on the cover are (from left to right) Vanessa Breault, Alysa Casey, Hayden Seibert and Ryan Yonko.

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COMMUNITY INTEREST

Harborcreek Municipal News ...........................................

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Harbor Creek School District News ...............................

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Project Breathe: Helping Pets Breathe Easier ............

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Robotic-Assisted Surgery Available to UPMC Hamot Patients ...............................

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Relay for Life .........................................................................

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Pennsylvania DEP Recommends EPA Delist Presque Isle Bay from Areas of Concern .....................

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Home Improvement in Harborcreek ...............................

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Your Hometown Pharmacy Celebrating Five Years in Business ............. | 19

INPERSPECTIVE Welcome to the spring issue of Harborcreek magazine.

I hope that you are as anxious as I am to get the cold and snow behind us and get busy planning projects around the house.

This issue is dedicated to home-improvement projects great and small. Some projects will give you curb appeal, some will increase your home’s value, and others are for the sheer enjoyment or luxury of it.

Regardless of your aims with your home, whether gutting the walls, or just planting the perfect tree in the yard, our homes are a source of pride for us, and not in a status sense. They are where we raise our families, where we feel safe, and where we invite our friends and loved ones for parties and fellowship.

Our homes are where our children play, and where oftentimes, we tend to sick loved ones. They are where we try hardest in life, and where the challenges of life hit us the most. Our homes bear witness to our triumphs as well as our sorrows, and they are as much a part of our personalities as what we choose to wear or adorn ourselves with.

So with so much importance placed on the walls that contain us, we hope that you can find at least one project within these pages to be fodder for your next project around the home.

Have a wonderful spring!

Wayne Dollard, Publisher

STAFF PUBL ISHE R

Wayne Dollard REGION AL E DIT ORS

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] mark@incommunitymagazines.com OF F ICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PL ACE MEN T COORDINAT OR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUN ICIPAL CONTE N T COORDIN AT OR

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DE SIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Jan McEvoy

Mike Miller Joe Milne Mindy St. Giles Tamara Tylenda

W RIT ERS

WE WANT TO KNOW:

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How did you get into

Gardening

Gardens are commonplace in Western Pennsylvania, but why?

What’s the allure of gardening that prompted you to first turn the dirt? , Was it a relative who first helped you plant your first or was it your spouse who first introduced you to succulent, vine-ripened ? homegrown Let us know how you first got into gardening and send us some pictures of your garden as well!

Email your submissions to: mark@incommunitymagazines.com and please indicate which of our magazines you receive so we know where to place your story.

tulip bulb

tomatoes

Jonathan Barnes Jennifer Brozak Matt Fascetti Tracey Fedkoe Mike Ference Jacob Flannick Britt Fresa Elvira Hoff

Heather Holtschlag Chelsie Kozera Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath Joanne Naser Melanie Paulick Gina Sallinger Judith Schardt

PHOT OGRAPHE RS

Mark Fainstein Ginni Klein Len Pancoast

Primetime Shots Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVE RT ISING SAL E S MANAGERS

Tamara Myers

Tom Poljak

ADVE RT ISING SAL E S

Sophia Alfaras Pamela Arder Brian Daley Julie Graff Jason Kalakos Peter Leben Connie McDaniel Brian McKee

Gabriel Negri Aimee Nicolia Vincent Sabatini Mark Seamans Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2013.

CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Summer content deadline: May 23

The Standard of Excellence in Vein Care #IRCULATORY #ENTERS HAVE BEEN THE AREA S LEADING EXPERTS IN VEIN TREATMENT FOR OVER YEARS n A TESTAMENT TO THEIR UNPARALLELED PATIENT CARE AND FOCUS ON VEIN TREATMENT !S WORLD CLASS PROVIDERS IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF VARICOSE VEINS #IRCULATORY #ENTERS PHYSICIANS HAVE CULTIVATED A REPUTATION AS THE LEADERS IN VEIN CARE

Veins Cause Leg Pain 4HE UNDERLYING VASCULAR CONDITION THAT LEADS TO THE FORMATION OF VARICOSE VEINS IS CALLED VENOUS INSUFlCIENCY !BOUT ONE IN lVE !MERICANS HAVE SOME DEGREE OF VENOUS INSUFlCIENCY RANGING FROM SMALL SURFACE VEINS TO LARGE VARICOSITIES THAT CAUSE SIGNIlCANT DAILY LEG PAIN SWELLING

SKIN BREAKDOWN AND ULTIMATELY VARIOUS DEGREES OF DISABILITY 3YMPTOMS CAN RANGE FROM CHRONIC ACHING OR TIREDNESS IN THE LEGS TO MUSCLE CRAMPS RESTLESSNESS AND AN INABILITY TO STAND FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME OFTEN INTERFERING IN THEIR DAILY LIFE 7HILE MUCH OF THE UNDERLYING CAUSE CAN BE HEREDITARY THESE PAINFUL VEINS ARE OFTEN TRIGGERED OR WORSENED WITH PREGNANCIES LONG PERIODS OF STANDING LEG INJURIES AND HORMONAL FACTORS The Simple, Affordable Solution #IRCULATORY #ENTERS PROUDLY OFFERS THE MOST MODERN STATE OF THE ART DIAGNOSTIC AND TREATMENT OPTIONS !ND

MOST PATIENTS WILL DISCOVER THAT 95% of treatments are covered by insurance 4HEY UTILIZE TOP OF THE LINE DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT INCLUDING HIGH RESOLUTION $OPPLER IMAGING WHICH ALLOWS THEM TO EXAMINE THE VEIN ANATOMY AND EASILY DETERMINE IF A PATIENT HAS MALFUNCTIONING VALVES WITHIN THE LEGS !CCURATE AND EARLY DETECTION ALLOWS #IRCULATORY #ENTERS TO DIAGNOSE WITH A HIGH LEVEL OF PRECISION

Providing the Most Advanced Treatment -ANY PATIENTS REQUIRE A MORE EXTENSIVE PROCEDURE TO CORRECT VENOUS

INSUFlCIENCY !ND NOW THERE S A MUCH LESS INVASIVE OPTION AS COMPARED TO JUST YEARS AGO 4HE VAST MAJORITY OF THEIR PATIENTS CAN HAVE THIS MEDICAL CONDITION CORRECTED WITH AN IN OFlCE LASER PROCEDURE KNOWN AS EVLA %NDO 6ENUS ,ASER !LBATION EVLA HAS TAKEN THE PLACE OF OUTDATED PAINFUL PROCEDURES OF THE PAST KNOWN AS hVEIN STRIPPING v EVLA HAS AN INCREDIBLY HIGH RATE OF SUCCESS AND #IRCULATORY #ENTERS PHYSICIANS HAVE BECOME RESPECTED WITHIN THE lELD OF 0HLEBOLOGY AS LEADERS IN PERFORMING THIS PROCEDURE IN THEIR OFlCES

"EFORE

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DEMONSTRATES #IRCULATORY #ENTERS CONSISTENT ATTENTION TO CARE AND QUALITY DEMONSTRATES #IRCULATORY #ENTERS CONSISTENT ATTENTION TO CARE AND QUALITY

Highly Recognized Staff and Care (IGHLY RECOGNIZED FOR PATIENT CARE

#IRCULATORY #ENTERS HAVE ATTAINED ACCREDITATION BY THE )NTERSOCIETAL #OMMISSION FOR THE !CCREDIATION OF 6ASCULAR ,ABORATORIES )#!6, n the highest recognition for their commitment to providing a high level of patient care AND QUALITY TESTING FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF VASCULAR DISEASE #IRCULATORY #ENTERS ARE AMONG A SELECT NUMBER OF PRIVATE VASCULAR PRACTICES IN THE 5NITED 3TATES 0UERTO 2ICO AND #ANADA TO MEET OR EXCEED THE )#!6, STANDARDS FOR NONINVASIVE VASCULAR TESTING $URING THE ACCREDITATION PROCESS EVERY ASPECT OF DAILY OPERATIONS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDED TO PATIENTS IS ASSESSED AND REVIEWED 0ARTICIPATION IN AND COMPLETION OF THE ACCREDITATION PROCESS

Free Consultation )T S COMMON FOR PATIENTS TO HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT scarring, anesthesia, insurance coverage and recovery time.

4O THOROUGHLY COVER THESE CONCERNS

ALL OF #IRCULATORY #ENTERS OFlCES OFFER A free vein consultation 4HIS GIVES PATIENTS PERSONAL one-on-one attention with their vascular experts SO THEY BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH THE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT PROCESS AND LEARN HOW EASY IT IS TO REGAIN THEIR HEALTHY LEGS Over 25 Locations )N ADDITION TO 11 Pennsylvania locations #IRCULATORY #ENTERS HAS 15 offices THROUGHOUT /HIO 7EST 6IRGINIA #ONNECTICUT 6IRGINIA AND 'EORGIA 3CHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION AT 1-800-426-9601 OR VISIT veinhealth.com.

The Circulatory Centers Difference s &REE )NITIAL 6EIN #ONSULTATION s )#!6, !CCREDITED 6ASCULAR ,ABORATORY s 3TATE OF THE !RT 6ENOUS 5LTRASOUND $IAGNOSIS s %XCLUSIVELY 4AILORED 4REATMENT 0LAN s OF 0ROCEDURES #OVERED BY )NSURANCE s $EDICATED 4EAM OF 6ENOUS 3PECIALISTS s )NDIVIDUAL 0ATIENT !CCOUNT 2EPRESENTATIVES s 1UICK 6IRTUALLY 0AINLESS 4REATMENTS s ,ASTING 2ESULTS

1-800-426-9601 | veinhealth.com | info@circcenters.com Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Greeting Card Class, Thursday, April 25

Classes & Activities Beginner’s Photography Workshop Tuesdays, April 16th, 23rd, and 30th Are you one of the masses that bought a fancy camera thinking you were going to have the next front page cover shot – only to be able to barely figure out how to use the “auto” function? If so, then Harborcreek Township invites you to attend a Beginner’s Photography Workshop hosted by local photographer Don Partch. The 3-week course will be held Tuesdays, April 16th, 23rd, and 30th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Harborcreek Municipal Building.

Don, a retired Art teacher who has many years of experience in photography, will teach you how to become acquainted with your digital camera – not to be afraid of it. Don encourages attendees to bring examples of successes and failures they have had in shooting photos - with the hopes that he can assist you in taking more and more “keepers”. Participants are also asked to bring laptop computers if they have one.

If you are interested in joining, please call the HC Township offices at 899-3171 to register. Class size is limited to 15.

Driver’s Safety Course Thursday, May 9th The Harborcreek Chapter of AARP will be hosting a “Refresher” Driver Safety Course on Thursday, May 9th from Noon to 4 p.m. at the Harborcreek Township Municipal Building.

Reservations are required.

By taking a driver safety course you'll learn the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques, and how to operate your vehicle more safely in today's increasingly challenging driving environment. You'll learn how you can manage and accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time.

Founded in 1979, AARP Driver Safety has helped millions of drivers stay safe on the roads. Although the course is geared to drivers age 50 and older, the course is open to people of all ages.

AARP membership is not required to take the course and there are no tests to pass. Cost is $12.00 (AARP Member) and $14.00 (Non-Member). Please call the HC Township Offices at 899-3171 to register.

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Local “scrapbookers” in Harborcreek are offering a one day “greeting card camp” for those interested.

On Thursday, April 25 from 7-9 p.m. members of the “Deckle Girls” are offering a 2 hour class on how to create personal greeting cards for any occasion. Cost is $10.00 and covers all materials and snack. Class size is limited to 15 people. Please call 899-3171 to register.

Youth/ Beginner Fishing Clinic May 4th Volunteers from several local Fishing Clubs including the Wesleyville Conservation Club and the SONS of Lake Erie have joined with Harborcreek Township to offer a Youth/Beginner Fishing Class on Saturday, May 4th at Whitford Park beginning @ 8 a.m. for kids age 16 & under. The volunteers will give a quick class on basic techniques and equipment used in the sport of fishing and then assist kids in trying to land “the big one”. All equipment will be available for young anglers to use to fish in Six-Mile Creek free of charge.

Pennsylvania State Police Troop E Camp Cadet June 16 – 21 Camp Cadet is a community funded program that allows young men and women ages 13-17 an opportunity to see the real workings of the Pennsylvania State Police Training Program.

Donations via area businesses and private individuals offset the cost of sending a child to camp for the one week experience. Camp Cadet is not a corrections type program, it is an opportunity for youth to see what ingredients go into police science and experience the different avenues of law enforcement.

Camp Cadet will be held this year from June 16th – 21st. For additional information including registration details, please visit www.pacampcadet.com/troope/ or contact Steve Oler @ Pennsylvania State Police 898-1641 or soler@pa.gov.

Runner’s Clinic May 23rd Once again, Harborcreek Township is excited to offer a FREE Runner’s Clinic beginning Thursday, May 23rd @ 6:30 p.m. at Harborcreek Community Park. Local running expert Sandie Sweet will be hosting this year’s clinic that will last 6 weeks and prepare runners for The Harborcreek Youth Services Fahey/Ferko Run on June 29th. Not only will Sandie offer weekly running tips, but will also pass on information including stretching, nutrition, setting goals, choosing correct equipment, and additional training options for the more advanced runner.

In addition to all the knowledge you will gain from Sandie, the location of the clinic offers you many routes and surfaces to run on – from the 7/10 mile paved trail around Community Park to wooded trails that connect into the park. Participants should plan to gather near the Firman Road concession stand and picnic pavilion – using the Firman Road parking lot. Hope to see you there!

Take Back Initiative Event Scheduled for Saturday, April 27th The Erie County Sherriff’s Office in conjunction with The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day which will take place on Saturday, April 27th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:.00 p.m. at the Harborcreek Township Municipal Building. DEA will coordinate a collaborative effort with state and local law enforcement agencies focused on removing potentially dangerous controlled substances from our nation’s medicine cabinets. This is a great opportunity for those who missed the previous events, or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of those medications to law enforcement officers for destruction.

The program provides an opportunity for law enforcement, prevention, treatment, and the business community to collaborate and establish a safe collection site for all Americans, regardless of where they reside.

Spring 2013 Clean-up and Leaf Pick-up dates announced Harborcreek Township will be hosting a Spring Clean-up on Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th at the Municipal Building. Harborcreek Township residents can drop off the following items between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. – All ferrous and non-ferrous metal including: sheet iron, appliances, car parts, brass, copper, non-freon appliances such as washer and dryers, hot water tanks and miscellaneous scrap metals. Items NOT accepted include bedsprings, car batteries, mattresses, furniture, tires, fluorescent light fixtures, gas tanks, explosive containers and any appliance containing freon. In addition, this year’s Spring Leaf pick-up schedule will be the weeks of: April 9-12 & 23-26. Please place bagged leaves at curbside on regular day of your trash pick-up.

Harborcreek Township participates in the Great American Cleanup of PA Mark Saturday, April 27th from 9-noon as your chance to help Harborcreek Township participate in the Great PA Cleanup. Join Pennsylvanians across the state – and Americans across the nation – for the Great American Cleanup. You can participate in the 2013 Great American Cleanup of PA by cleaning up litter and trash along our roadsides, streams, beaches, parks, forests and neighborhoods. Please call 899-3171 to register your group. Registration allows Harborcreek Township to order the correct amount of garbage bags, safety vests, gloves, etc. for the event.

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

Community Nights Concert Update for 2013 This year’s Community Days/Nights concert is taking a little twist and turn.

There will no longer be a “community day” event on the last Saturday in June. However plans are in the works to offer 2 Summer Community Night Concerts at Community Park. The first concert is scheduled for Friday, June 28th with the music of “Taylor Maid” and “Small Town Revolution”.

In addition to great music, we’ll still have lots of food vendors, bouncies for kids, face painting, balloon animals and another fireworks display to light up your eyes! The second concert is scheduled for Friday, August 23rd and is a “back to school” celebration as we close out the summer.

The M-80’s are back once again for another great night of singing and dancing along with the food vendors and lots of free family activities – and of course the fireworks.

In addition to those exciting community events, Harborcreek Township is excited to announce they are partnering with the HC Chamber of Commerce for this year’s HarvestFest scheduled for Saturday, October 5th. This year’s plans include the return of the “Pumpkin Cannon”, kids’ activities, local food vendors, and new this year – Main Stage entertainment featuring the “Bier Nutz” – a rollicking group of great guys with a passion towards polka… no matter what the music!! Should be a great time!

More specific details including hours will be made available as confirmed. Please continue to check our website, www.harborcreektownship.org, or our Facebook page for continuous updates.

Six Mile Creek Park Update

The Harborcreek Township’s Parks Department has been busy since late last fall in building an entrance and access road for Six-Mile Creek Park. The approximately 900 foot road (located on Clark Road approximately ¼ mile west of Depot Road) and parking lot for over 20 cars is roughed in with much more work still to be done. Additional work includes installing guide rails along the drive, plantings near the parking lot, paving the road and parking lot, and construction of a handicap accessible trail. We ask for all users of the park to respect the neighbor’s properties bordering the park when visiting.

Harborcreek Township Emergency Response Team

UPDATE On April 1, 2012 The Harborcreek Township Emergency Response Team went into service to help supplement the manpower shortage of the 3 volunteer fire departments in Harborcreek Township during daytime hours. The team is made up of 5 office personnel, 1 road crew member and 1 parks crew member.

The team is dispatched to calls at the discretion of the fire departments. The team will respond to assist as long as the fire department has at least one person that answers the call. The team will also respond to calls to assist neighboring mutual aid departments if requested. The team is dispatched by the local emergency communication center using the Harborcreek Township EMA tones.

The team is a collaborative effort between the 3 volunteer fire departments and the township. Talks between the two began in about 2009 regarding the lack of manpower during the day for the volunteer fire departments and what could be done to help. After many years of discussion and logistics which included updating the township insurance policy to allow the employees to respond to calls, transferring ownership of the Ford Explorer to one fire department and leasing it back from them in order to run as an emergency vehicle per state law and then adopting a resolution to create the team.

With the end of 2012 the team wrapped up its first year of service. So far the program has been very successful in assisting the volunteer fire departments in Harborcreek Township and some neighboring municipalities. From April 2012 till December 2012 the HTERT team has answered 146 calls for assistance in Harborcreek Township and 6 calls in the neighboring municipalities. We look forward to serving our community and neighbors in 2013 and beyond.

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When you’re washing your car in the driveway, remember that you’re not just washing your car in the driveway All the soap, scum, and oily grit runs along the curb. Then into the storm drain and directly into our lakes, streams and coastal waters including Lake Erie. And that causes pollution which is unhealthy for fish. So how do you avoid this whole mess? Easy.

Was your car on grass or gravel instead of the street. Or better yet, take it to a car wash where the water gets treated and recycled.

2013 Whitford Park Summer Concert Series Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

June 19th June 26th July 3rd July 10th July 17th July 24th July 31st August 7th August 14th

Generic Grass Country Blue The Glenwood Hillbillies A Touch of Classics Loose Change Band Doggone Good Band Jimmy Cuneo North East Banjo Band Kurt Novakowski, Elvis Impersonator

Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy a great evening!!

Harborcreek Township will be hosting a Shred Event on Saturday, May 4th from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the HC Township Municipal Building.

Residents are welcome to bring up to 4 boxes of paper to be shredded free of charge.

A great opportunity to safely dispose of personal papers and documents.

Harborcreek Township is excited to announce they will be participating in the Eastside Y’s “Get a Jump on Summer” Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 27th from 1-4 p.m. at the Y – 2101 Nagle Road. There will be games, prizes, a kid’s bounce house, appearances by members of the Gannon University basketball team, and many other activities.

For any additional information, please call the Y at 899-9622.

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Harbor Creek School District Mission Statement Harbor Creek School District will maximize the academic and civic potential of all students through a safe learning environment that promotes respect and acceptance and is supported by a highly qualified staff with involved parents and community.

Harbor Creek Website: Magazine Feedback: District Report Card: Like us on Facebook

www.hcsd.iu5.org http://hcmagazine.hcsd.iu5.org http://paayp.emetric.net

Harbor Creek Budget Update The Harbor Creek School District receives its revenue from federal, state and local sources to fund its $29 million budget. Recently, federal and state revenues have decreased significantly and are projected to remain relatively level for the foreseeable future. In response to this funding climate, expenditure cuts were made totaling more than $1.4 million in the course of developing the 2011/12 District budget and an additional $180,000 was made for 2012/13.

Although the preliminary 2013/14 state budget included additional funding for school districts, the state budget assumes revenue and savings will be realized from other budget initiatives. Two major initiatives are pension reform and the privatization of the state’s wholesale and retail liquor operation.

As everyone can identify with, the price of virtually everything is going up. The District’s expenditures unfortunately are not exempt from this. The District’s expenditures are also largely influenced by state and federal mandates that the District has, at best, limited control over.

In January, the Board was looking at a preliminary 2013/14 budget that was $350,000 out of balance. The Board decided at that time that real estate taxes will increase no more than $50 per $100,000 of assessed value in the 2013/14 budget. The Board and administration will be working together to reduce expenditures and minimize any tax increase while trying to maintain opportunities for students as well as preserve the District’s long term fiscal stability.

The current timeline has the Board adopting the proposed 2013/14 General Fund budget at the April 18, 2013 Board meeting and adopt the final 2013/14 General Fund budget at the June 13, 2013 Special Board meeting.

Dr. Richard Lansberry

Klein Cares This year, Klein has started an initiative called “Klein Cares.”

Each month the staff and students complete a project to show that we are a school that is not only highly academic, but also socially and civically aware.

It is something we are very proud of and look forward to each month. Some of our favorite projects this year have been donating over $800 to the Red Cross for the victims of Hurricane Sandy and creating Valentines for the residents of Brevillier Village. In November we donated food to the Harborcreek Food Pantry and in March the school donated over 1,000 gently used books to First Book Erie. First Book Erie provides books to children in need, addressing one of the more important factors affecting literacy, access to books.

As you can see, Klein is a school that believes Together We Make a Difference!

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Student Spotlight

High School The Class of 2013 will be attending Baccalaureate Services on Sunday June 2nd at 7 pm at the High School auditorium.

The Graduation Ceremonies will take place at The Warner Theatre on June 4th at 7 pm. Lifetouch, our official commencement photographer, will have portraits available online at Events.Lifetouch.com approximately ten days after the ceremony. Celebrate your achievement with these professional portraits.

December, 2012, ended another very successful campaign for Toys for Tots in the Harbor Creek Junior and Senior High School. Due to the generosity of our faculty, staff, and students, we contributed four boxes of toys for this year’s campaign. In recent years, the Office Tech class has helped collect the toys as part of their service to the community and school. The Key Club collected another box of toys from the spectators at a home wrestling match, bringing our 2012 total to five boxes.

Jr. High Students and faculty collected nearly $400.00 that was donated to the American Heart Association by participating in various fundraisers including a student versus faculty basketball game.

Students also had a chance to meet Miss Pennsylvania, Jordyn Calao (4th from left), during an assembly promoting healthy living choices. Jordyn’s platform is “Heart to heart: Cardiovascular Disease Prevention”

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Harborcreek High School Honors Fallen Hero On Presidents Day there was a ceremony held in the High School auditorium to honor Lt. Raymond Krupinski, a 1966 Harborcreek graduate, for heroism in combat that cost him his life in Vietnam. Bill Lutz, a Harborcreek resident and Vietnam vet, heard the initial presentation of the Distinguished Service Cross was very private and unheralded. Mr. Lutz thought that 44 years was too long for the public to go without knowing more about this local hero.

Maj. Gen. Michael Dunlavey, State Representative Curt Sonney and Mr. Lutz spoke during the ceremony along with a benediction from Chaplain Fugate of the Veterans Administration. Also there to honor Lt. Krupinski and his family were County Counsel Member Kyle Foust and our three Township Supervisors, Joe Peck, Dean Pepicello and Tim May. The audience included friends and family, Harborcreek residents and the entire senior class to which General Dunlavey presented a short lesson on history and patriotism.

Student Spotlight This chessboard, made by Harbor Creek Sophomore, Raymond Galeza in Mr. Jazenski’s Wood Manufacturing II class, is made of maple and walnut wood.

The brass latch and hinge allow the cabinet to open, revealing a felt-lined storage area for the chess pieces. The project took ten weeks to complete.

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Lt. Krupinski was killed during a firefight in Vietnam in 1969. His platoon was ambushed and took casualties. Lt. Krupinski was wounded while leaving relative safety to bring a wounded man out of the fray. He refused medical treatment and went back out to retrieve another wounded man. At that point he was mortally wounded. His actions warranted his posthumous presentation of the Distinguished Service Cross of which only 185 received out of over 3 million who served in Vietnam.

This (re)presentation and reading of the citation by Maj. Gen. Dunlavey to Raymond’s mother Doris and brother David, would not have been possible without the help of many: the Harborcreek ROTC members lead by Maj. Jay Johnson, members of the Harborcreek High School Band, bagpiper Tom Kalinowski and Purple Heart Organization members Dave Hayes and Bob Hill. Dr. Richard Lansberry and Principal David Stoczynski were instrumental in facilitating the event.

Rolling Ridge’s

Celebration of Kindness

Rolling Ridge is looking forward to a school-wide Celebration of Kindness on May 22, 2013.

Students and classrooms at Rolling Ridge continually include kindness and compassion into their daily activities.

A chain reaction of kindness is visibly represented as each student gathers to show how kindness can spread like a “Chain Reaction.”

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

klein school renovation

to begin

The Klein School renovation project will soon be underway. As the 2012-2013 school year comes to an end, the project will be just getting started.

Students and staff will be unable to stay at the Klein location during the renovations. Due to the extensive repairs, Klein School will be moving to the old Wesleyville school for the entire 2013-2014 school year. Although being away from Klein for an entire year is not ideal, everyone is looking forward to being able to stay together as a Klein family and being able to maintain the integrity of the programs that Klein has. Wesleyville has been renovated over the past five years and is in very nice condition. In the spring there will be an Open House at Wesleyville so everyone can get a good look at Klein’s new home for next year. Be sure to check out the Klein School website for details about when the Open House will take place. The website will be the hotspot to find all the details about the move to Wesleyville, so be sure to continually check back.

When students and staff do return to Klein during the 2014-2015 school year, they will come back to many infrastructure changes such as much needed electrical upgrades, new windows, some plumbing upgrades, and a new ADA front entrance. Other renovations include new carpeting, whiteboards, new blinds, and a new kitchen. The gymnasium will be getting a much needed new floor and ceiling, as well as a new sound system.

Once again, be sure to check out the Klein website at www.klein.hcsd.iu5.org/ for the most recent details regarding the Wesleyville move, as well as any renovation news.

Wesleyville School

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Harborcreek

IN Harborcreek: The Credit What’s more, our name Union will be announcing a carries inside of it the name name change at its Annual of one of the world’s most Meeting on April 20, 2013. successful companies. We are very How do you think it proud of this, but continuing to carry The editors of inMillcreek recently sat the General Electric name could limit will be perceived?

Palotas: We hope it will be perceived as down with Gail Cook, President and our future expansion. enthusiastically as we feel! A name IN Harborcreek: Are there any CEO of Erie General Electric FCU change probably doesn’t come as much difficulties you’re anticipating? of a shock to our membership or the Palotas: Change is never easy, period. and Carl Palotas, the Credit Union’s community at large as it’s something we We’re blessed to have our leadership, our Board Chairman, in order to discuss have undergone before. Many of our wonderful staff and an exceptional members have experienced a name membership who embrace change. This an exciting announcement. change through several mergers over has been evident as we have grown in the years. We’ve opened our doors to the entire community leaps and bounds throughout the years. Certainly, we don’t want and worked diligently to have a presence throughout our region. anyone to mistakenly think that we’re changing our name due to a The more we have done these things, the more the need to merger or being bought out nor due to any financial instability. distinguish ourselves has become vital.

Cook: We want to be very clear: the Credit Union is in great financial IN Harborcreek: How will this change the organization? shape as members will see through our detailed Annual Report that Cook: The short answer is; it won’t. We’re still the same place will be distributed in April. One of the reasons we can make this members have come to know and trust for more than 77 years. critical change now is because of our financial stability. Another To elaborate, this change will solidify many of the cultural difficulty could be that we will no longer easily be recognized in changes that we’ve already been undergoing over the last few the community for a short time after changing our name. We’ll do years, including serving the needs of every member and making everything we can to gain awareness through word-of-mouth and the Credit Union a household name. We’re still the same great to continue to give members a reason to cheer us on. place that’s serving, volunteering IN Harborcreek: When you think and supporting important of the new name, what are you causes throughout our region. most excited about?

IN Harborcreek: Why now?

Cook: Our new name will elevate Palotas: This is something our image and help us appeal we’ve been thinking about to even more people. It works on doing for a number of years and many levels, across many service it hasn’t come lightly. People industries and is attractive to a think they have to work for wide demographic, including GE in order to open an account. young adults.

We hear that all the time. Many Palotas: The new name consumers confuse us with emphasizes us as a family-focused other financial institutions in financial institution and I think it the Erie region and we can no will be easy for people to understand. Plus it’s fun and engaging! longer afford to have our growth hindered in any way during IN Harborcreek: Is there anything else our readers should know? these tough economic times.

Palotas: Yes, please come see us to Cook: Some additional reasons pick up your FREE ticket to our for the change include Annual Meeting on April 20, 2013 consumers not understanding at the Ambassador Conference the words “credit” or “union”.

Center. You will need a ticket to They don’t immediately attend the meeting so we can plan associate us with a financial accordingly. The business meeting institution; instead they starts promptly at 3 p.m. and we’re think you might have to looking forward to discussing this belong to a union in order more at length with you and anto use our services. swering any questions you might have at that time.

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Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

-By Amanda Fastuca

Studies have found that an average of 40,000 estimated pets die in house fires each year due to lack of proper breathing equipment. Now, Patty Sopp, the Owner of Invisible Fence of Erie, is helping that number go down by donating animal-fitted masks to fire departments across the region.

Project Breathe is a donation program sponsored by the Invisible Fence Brand.

Regular oxygen masks that are performed on humans tend to have difficulty fitting most pets, lacking its full potential to work properly. The program creates three different sized masks with oxygen tubes attached to each. Because of the custom design, the masks now fit perfectly against the animals’ snout. Not only are the masks made for cats and dogs, but smaller animals such as hamsters and birds can be placed inside the masks as well.

Each kit comes with demonstrational DVD as well as step-by-step card instructions.

When the program began, the goal was to get the improved masks onto as many fire trucks as possible. However, many fire departments were not able to afford the original cost of the oxygen masks. “When the Invisible Fence of U.S. and Canada heard about the program, they decided to step in as a national sponsor,” Sopp said. “So that's how my husband, Bill, and I got involved with the donations about three years ago.” As more fire departments became interested across the region, the program continued to grow. “They offered the oxygen kits to different dealers. So, I chose to participate because I think of it as a great way to give back to the community,” Sopp said.

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With about 32 donated kits so far, the donators of Invisible Fence hope to donate around 200 kits by the end of 2013.

“There are over 200 fire departments in the territory,” Sopp said. “And we have every intention to donate at least one kit to everyone. So we are just going to start with the ones that request it first and then work our way from there.” Over time, the kits have been donated to fire departments in areas such as Erie, Corry, Harborcreek Township, Meadville, and New York.

Sopp pays around $70 a kit to support the program, which leads to about $2,000 spent out of pocket. “The important thing to remember is that, many times, our animals are the ones that alert families of a fire and ends up saving them as an instinct. So if we can do more to save those pets then that's one great thing and it’s worth every penny,” Sopp Said.

Sopp and her husband have owned their grooming kennel for the last 30 years. After understanding the large number of pets that go through house fires, getting involved with the program through her business seemed like the best thing to do. “When I was hired as a marketer, this was one of the first projects that the company wanted done,” said Christopher Spare, the marketing consultant of Invisible Fence of Erie, “To be hired for a job like this is ideal because it really shows that they care about animals and their safety. It means so much to me to work for this kind of company because in reality, it’s the firemen, Patty, and Bill who are the true heroes”

we have the same priorities as you when it comes to

school work.

To learn more please contact John Arnold, Business Development Representative JArnold@MassaroCMS.com

For more information or to get involved with Project Breathe, visit www.invisiblefence.com/ Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

Robotic-assisted Surgery Available to Patients “Some days, I was bawling because the pain hurt so badly.”

There were days when Melissa Mulson, 34, was in so much pain that she wasn’t able to get off of the couch. She was prescribed narcotics for her pelvic-related pain, but the medicine would not ease Melissa’s discomfort.

After finding a cyst in March 2012, Sarah Warner, MD, of the OB/GYN Associates of Erie, tried to shrink the cyst with various medications. After unsuccessful attempts to relieve the pain, Dr. Warner knew surgery was the answer.

In October 2012, Melissa was scheduled for a hysterectomy at UPMC Hamot due to pelvic pain related to endometriosis, a gynecological medical condition in which tissue from the lining of the uterus appears and grows outside the uterine wall.

Dr. Warner explained surgery options and why Melissa was an excellent candidate for the minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery. She told Melissa that due to her abundant scar tissue and adhesive disease throughout her abdomen, the surgery could be complex and risky. Robotic-assisted surgery allows the

surgeon to complete the procedure in a 3-D view and gives more intraoperative leverage.

This minimally invasive procedure allows for the surgeon to cut incisions less than an inch in diameter, while operating the machine with more accuracy, precision, and control. The smaller incisions, versus one large incision, typically will reduce the patient’s pain, cause less blood loss, and enable a faster recovery.

Melissa’s mother, Nancy, had a hysterectomy a couple years prior due to continuous bleeding, which was not robotic-assisted, and stated, “It took me weeks to fully recover.”

Melissa and Nancy were astonished by how quickly Melissa recovered. After resting on the couch for three days post-surgery, Melissa was walking around the house and shopping at local stores. She was given a prescription for pain medication after the surgery, but she didn’t have a need to fill it.

“I have much more energy now. I’m moving faster and no longer have any pelvic-related pain.”

Interested in learning more about robotic-assisted surgery?

Here is a list of UPMC Hamot physicians who specialize in gynecological robotic-assisted surgery: Sarah Achenbach, MD Andrea Jeffress, MD Jennifer Stull, DO Sarah Warner, MD OB/GYN Associates of Erie 100 Peach Street Erie, PA 16507 814-459-1851 16

Harborcreek

Timothy Weibel, MD Bayside Ob/Gyn Infertility 104 East 2nd Street Erie, PA 16507 814-456-2229

Lisa Semple, DO Presque Isle Women’s Health 5035 Peach Street Erie, PA 16509 814-877-3940

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Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

By Deborah McQuaid

Rose Walach and her family run a restaurant. They put all their energy into keeping their landmark business going. They put equal effort into nearly constant fund-raising for the annual Harborcreek Relay For Life.

Rose Walach and her family run a restaurant. They put all their energy into keeping their landmark business going. They put equal effort into nearly constant fund-raising for the annual Harborcreek Relay For Life.

That commitment earns them the highest praise from Relay Co-chairman Tim May who recognizes the Fiddle Inn team as one of the most dedicated and successful in the event’s 13-year history.

Walach says her family sees it as their duty to help.

“We always felt you should give back. We’re not one of the biggest or busiest restaurants, but we do try to give back,” she said.

This year’s Relay will be held June 21 and 22 at Harborcreek High School. The theme is “Super Hero” and will salute “all kinds of heroes,” May said, like members of the military, volunteer firefighters and medical personnel. The goal this year is to raise $62,000 which would bring the Harborcreek total to $1 million raised since the event started in 2002.

Harborcreek Relay’s planning committee hopes to have 40 teams and 60 cancer survivors participate this year.

Last year, $49,000 was raised and there were 35 teams and 292 participants. The first year, almost $70,000 was raised by 595 participants and 42 teams.

Walach had breast cancer when she was 58 and participated in one of the first Relay For Life events in the Erie area at McDowell High School. Her family got involved in the Harborcreek Relay to honor her sister’s husband, Gary Bailey, who died from cancer.

Now his stepson, Shawn Festa, the owner of the Fiddle Inn, and his children have taken up the cause. And they use the restaurant as a way to do fund-raising year round for the Relay.

Walach’s great-nieces Kayla and Victoria Stefano, 14 and 12, Macey Festa, 11, and great-nephews Bailey Festa, 9, and Derrick Szklenski, 14, help brainstorm ideas. "They sell things and raise money. Young people do such a better job of selling. They get excited. What I like is that Shawn (Festa) wants them to understand that you have to help other people," Walach said.

They make and sell baked goods, bracelets and other items at events held at the restaurant on virtually every holiday including Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and Halloween. The family holds breakfasts where they offer games and sell 50/50 tickets with all the proceeds going to the Relay. They hold celebrity bartender nights and other special events where staff will donate their tips for the night. A yearly favorite is “Rock Around the Clock” night where bartenders will dress in 1950’s clothing. continued on page 20

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Your Hometown Pharmacy celebrates 5 years in business On February 20th, Your Hometown Pharmacy celebrated its fifth anniversary of servicing the local communities of Wesleyville, Lawrence Park, Harborcreek, Erie, Millcreek and North East. A locally owned and independently operated pharmacy, Your Hometown Pharmacy offers the right mix of service and prices that patients need for their health care.

Service The bulletin board is full of letters, cards and newspaper articles about the service the pharmacy has provided its patients. Owner BJ Moon, a lifelong local resident, said “Service is what sets our pharmacy apart from all the others. We pride ourselves on providing every patient with fast, friendly service. If you need to be in and out in 5 minutes, we can do that. If you need to sit down and talk about your prescriptions, we can do that. Whatever the customer’s needs are, we strive to exceed expectations.”

The pharmacy backs up its promises with a free delivery service, a drive thru window at the pharmacy, an after hours on-call service, and free consultations on prescription and over the counter medicine.

Prices In addition to excellent service, the pharmacy prides itself in providing prescriptions at the lowest possible price. “When budgets are tight and demand for medicine is high, we look to help customers get the prescriptions they need at the lowest possible price. We have seen a dramatic increase in the availability of generic medicines for several commonly prescribed medications.

This has led to several high priced brands now being available for a fraction of the cost. In many cases we have been able to provide generics at prices that beat mail order prices and even VA prices.

In addition to $4 and $10 dollar generics, we also discount all generics and will put our prices up against anyone.” said Moon.

The pharmacy also offers free cost evaluations and recommendations to all patients.

Community involvement An important aspect to being a community business, is to be involved in the community. The pharmacy sponsors several local programs and youth sports. Its employees are also actively involved in their churches, schools, and youth programs. On staying an active part of the community, Moon said “We feel it is important to give back to the community.

So whenever possible we sponsor programs with funds or with our time, and stay actively involved. It is a life style myself and my employees enjoy very much.” The pharmacy also has made available to the public, a community board that can let others know about events or opportunities happening in the community.

Be a customer at the pharmacy Becoming a customer at the pharmacy is easy. “We have made it as simple as possible for new patients to access our services” says Moon, “One call or visit and we can have anyone set up to utilize our prices and services.

Patients can start saving money and enjoy the best in pharmacy service at the same time.

Transferring prescriptions is easy, just call the pharmacy and we will do the rest.”

Independent and loving it!

Consumer Reports recently published a study showing Independent pharmacy is #1 in service. When asked about this, owner BJ Moon said “independents are set up to handle patients individual needs and to make sure everyone gets the care they need. We don’t have the entanglements and middle management that ties the hands of many chain pharmacies. We are free to take the time to make sure every patient gets what they need, every time.“ The pharmacy also offers flu shots, shingles shots, and compounding medicine services.

“Our entire staff is looking forward to taking care of our patients for years to come”, Moon concluded, “We love what we do!”

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

In 2011, that night alone raised $1,500 for the Relay. Looking back over her records, Walach said the Fiddle Inn raised $23,000 in its first year, 2006.

To date, Walach said they raised $87,000 for the Relay, averaging $12,000 per year. “And we’re just going to keep trying and keep going.”

Walach said they’re always trying to come up with new ideas. And she said the Fiddle Inn staff is always willing to help.

Jen Domis, head bartender and waitress, has been participating in the Relay for the last eight years. One year, she walked from midnight to 7 a.m.

“It’s a good cause,” Domis said. “Once you do it, it just kind of sticks. I love it.”

Walach said she’s proud of her family and staff and their dedication. “We go constantly. You just keep trying and figuring out ways to raise money and these haven’t been great years in the restaurant business,” Walach said.

Betsy Roseto’s family and friends started the Harborcreek Relay in 2002.

Roseto’s daughter, Megan, was diagnosed with cancer when she was 17 at the end of her junior year at Harborcreek High School. The cancer came back when she was a freshmen in college. Now 31, Megan Roseto Swezey, a speech pathologist and mother of two daughters living in Cleveland, Ohio, is again going through treatment after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

The Roseto family, including Swezey, plan to participate in this year’s event.

Roseto recalls the first year being up for 36 straight hours. “People had a blast,” she said. “It was so much fun and all for one common thing that is a cure (for cancer.)”

Roseto said the best part of the event is the family being together. Her six grandchildren all walk the high school track during the Relay. “I look forward to it. It’s family time, party time.”

Roseto said it’s a “great cause. Even if people don’t want to participate on a team, they can just stop by and walk around the track. Just come and see what it’s all about. Stay an hour. Stay all day,” Roseto suggested. “It’s just fun.”

Co-chairman May said he’s always inspired by the survivors who participate. He said about six years ago his mother, Shirley May,

was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Then it became personal,” he said. Tim May recalled the impact of the survivors and caregivers lap around the track. “To see my mom and my dad out there was very inspiring. It inspires you to go on and continue to fight” the disease,” May said.

He said it’s a powerful thing to see all the cancer survivors. “You see these people out there (who you know) and you think, ‘I didn’t know they had cancer.

“I’ve never been more proud of my mom,” he said.

Shirley May has been cancer free for seven years. She said she first got involved in the Relay before her cancer diagnosis.

A good friend had gone through cancer treatment.

Despite being under treatment in 2006, she participated in the Relay. She said the survivor walk when they meet their caregivers is the most powerful moment for her every year.

“Where you actually met your caregivers, it’s kind of an emotional thing.” She met her husband, Tom, on the caregiver lap. “It is emotional every year for me to think all those people are walking and they meet their caregiver.

You’re a survivor from the day you were diagnosed. All the survivors walk around the track and then they meet their caregivers, go around the other way and then they walk back together,” Shirley May explained. “It’s someone who has been your support system. It’s just like you couldn’t have done it alone and because you had this great support system, you just got through it.

“We’ve walked (together) almost every year.

“It’s not a sad place. It’s very uplifting.

It’s not to make you feel down. You’re glad that you’re there,” Shirley May said.

Many people come and then stay for the entertainment, she said. There are bands, food, performances from local children’s dance companies and movies for people staying overnight.

Disc jockey Brad Arndt provides 24-hour entertainment.

Other area bands are being booked this year. Some volunteer their time.

The food available at the concession stands is all donated. Organizers said they are trying for nonstop entertainment this year.

“You’ve got to put on a good event for people to enjoy so they will stay longer and spend money,” Tim May said.

Relay For Life started in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Wash., raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society fight the nation’s biggest continued on page 22

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Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

health concern. A year later, 340 supporters joined the overnight event. Since then, the Relay For Life movement has raised more than $4 billion worldwide to fight cancer.

In more than 5,200 communities and 20 countries, Relay For Life events comprise the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Each event is special to its community, but the movement’s power lies in the combined commitment of thousands of participants, volunteers and supporters.

Every Year, the Relay For Life movement raises more than $400 million. The American Cancer Society uses the money to invest in groundbreaking research in every type of cancer and providing free information and services to cancer patients and their caregivers.

Across the nation, people participate in an organized, overnight community fundraising walk. In every location, teams of people camp out around a track and members of each team take turns walking around. Food, games and activities provide entertainment and build camaraderie and it’s typically a family event.

Among the highlights of the event is the Survivor’s Lap where all cancer survivors take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer while being cheered on by people watching. It also recognizes and celebrates caregivers who give

time, love and support to their friends, family, neighbors and co-workers facing cancer.

The Luminaria Ceremony, held after dark, honors people who fought cancer in the past and those who are currently fighting it.

Candles are lit inside of personalized bags and placed around the track in glowing tributes to those who have been affected by cancer.

In the Harborcreek area, teams can register at www.relayforlife.org/paharborcreek or contact Molly Reichard at 866-5174. While the Relay is held at Harborcreek High School, the event is open to the general public.

Tim May, who is chairing the event along with Aaron Cavalline, a Harborcreek math teacher, said he loves the entire event, starting with the planning, which began in early February.

“I always say it’s the community taking up the fight against cancer,” May said.

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There is a brand new Snap Fitness in Harborcreek!

Local owners, Scott and Amy Simonsen, invite the public in to attend free boot camp classes and tour the new Health Club facility on Saturday April 13th!

Anyone joining our club that day will be entered into a drawing to win a free 6 month membership!

Snap is conveniently located at 4059 Buffalo Rd. in the Harborcreek - Eastway – Giant Eagle Plaza.

Come in, meet our staff and check out the Fitness on Demand room offering a selection of 45-50 group fitness classes 24-7 included with all memberships. Boot camp classes are offered daily and our certified personal trainers are all ready and willing to show you results at affordable prices! Harborcreek Snap Fitness, one of the larger Snap locations, offers a wide variety of fitness equipment including TRX, the latest craze in the fitness industry, which uses your own body weight. Snap Fitness is fast, convenient, affordable and now offers a complete diet and nutrition plan with your membership. Snap Fitness partnered with Truestar Health, which is also, the main sponsor of the annual $25,000 weight loss challenge. Harborcreek Snap Fitness guarantees results with their comprehensive program including exercise, diet, nutrition, vitamins, sleep and attitude! Drop those extra pounds and get fit, live well and feel great!

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection today announced that it officially requested this week that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency remove Presque Isle Bay from the list of Great Lakes Areas of Concern.

If EPA approves the request, Presque Isle Bay will be the second American Area of Concern (AOC) taken off the list of environmentally impaired sites identified under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

“After more than 20 years of investigations, monitoring and restoration actions, the bay is healthy and ready to be removed from the list,” DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. “This action is the result of collaboration among federal, state and local government agencies, universities, researchers and citizens. It is a success story for the City of Erie and its economy, and it demonstrates how government and the public can work together to accomplish environmental protection and restoration.”

The first indication of problems in the bay was in 1984, when local anglers reported brown bullhead catfish with external growths. In 1991, due in part to these concerns and at the request of local citizens, Presque Isle Bay became the 43rd AOC under the Great Lakes Quality Agreement. Two impairments, restrictions on dredging activities due to contaminated sediment and fish tumors or other deformities, were identified.

Upgrades to the City of Erie’s wastewater treatment, collection and conveyance system; reduction in combined sewer overflows

Pennsylvania DEP Recommends EPA Delist Presque Isle Bay from Areas of Concern

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within the bay’s watershed; and regulation of pollutant discharges all contributed to the reduction in contaminants entering the bay.

These actions translated into the bay becoming the first American AOC to be designated in the Recovery Stage in 2002, with the restrictions on dredging impairment having been removed in 2007.

DEP’s request this week to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the removal of the fish tumor impairment, which also results in the delisting of the bay as an AOC. The recommendation to delist is grounded on the best science and technology available today.

In making its recommendation to delist, DEP consulted with the Presque Isle Bay Public Advisory Committee and determined that the goal of the AOC program, to improve environmental conditions so they are equal to other non-AOC locations elsewhere in the Great Lakes, has been met. Remedial measures with the greatest direct benefit to the bay are complete;

The Brown Bullhead Catfish This catfish is easily caught with natural bait such as worms and chicken livers.

They have a scrappy but not unusually strong fight. Anglers often catch them by fishing off the bottom. When caught in very clear water when the flesh is firm and reddish to pinkish, the hornpout is quite edible and delicious. Nevertheless, its genial cousins such as the channel catfish and the blue catfish are better known for their consumption qualities. In most areas, they will not exceed two pounds in weight.

other watershed measures that positively impact the bay are ongoing; air, waste and water discharges are permitted and monitored; no other species of fish or organisms living at the bottom of the bay appear to be impacted; and a human health and ecosystem health assessment concluded that the existing conditions in the bay do not increase cancer or non-cancer risks to people or the environment.

“While we celebrate this achievement, our work is not done,” DEP Northwest Regional Director Kelly Burch said. “DEP will continue working with the public advisory committee and other partners to monitor the bay's health, conduct investigations and continue to address environmental issues through our broad range of statutory, regulatory, permitting and enforcement authorities.”

EPA’s Great Lakes National Program Office will review DEP’s recommendation to de-list and coordinate a final decision with the U.S. Department of State.

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Five Wholesome Snacks

A

for Families On-the-Go

busy family schedule means there’s less time to gather around the dinner table each night, let alone ensure everyone in the family is getting the nutrients they need to live healthy. And what convenience foods offer in terms of portability, they often lack in vitamins and nutrients.

But with a little preparation, you can ensure that convenient, wholesome, on-the-go snacks are at the ready when it’s time to head to play, practice or ballet lessons. Here are a few snack ideas to keep your family happy and healthy.

Smoothies While smoothies may not be the first thing that pops in your mind in terms of portability and convenience, with the right to-go cup, straw and lid, smoothies can be a great way to get some key nutrients en route. Pre-packaged smoothies, however, often contain a great deal of sugar. Ensure your family reaps the benefits of a fruit smoothie by whipping up a batch using all-natural ingredients and freezing them for later. Be sure to store blended smoothies in freezer-safe or airtight containers in the freezer, and allow for one to two hours of defrost time before grabbing them and heading for the door.

Whole Food Bars Just because you’re short on time, doesn’t mean you can’t work wholesome foods in convenient, pocket or purse-sized portions into your diet. But make sure to check the labels when you grab a quick snack. While many snack bars contain few nutrients and may be high in sugar, there are many made using wholesome ingredients such as rolled oats, organic soynuts and almond butter, that are not only tasty, but dairy and gluten-free, as well as vegan. These bars are great go-to options you can feel good about giving your family. Learn more about these wholesome snacks online.

Homemade Trail Mix For a shelf-stable snack that’s perfect for storing in the car, at the office, or in your purse, consider mixing up your favorite dry food snack items such as popcorn, almonds, peanuts, dried cranberries, raisins, banana chips and more.

Edamame

While soybeans might not be something you regularly prepare, they’re actually simple to cook, can be modified using different seasonings and are easily eaten on-the-go. The night before a busy day, simply add 1 teaspoon of salt to a large pot of water, bring to a boil and add the edamame. Cook between 4 to 5 minutes for frozen edamame, 5 to 6 minutes for fresh. Drain, and then add your favorite seasoning and store in a zip-top bag or storage container in the refrigerator until you head out the door.

Apple Chips If you’re a fan of apples, consider making apple chips. Simply cut apples into about 1/8-inch thick slices, add a pinch of cinnamon, and place them in the oven at 200°F for roughly two hours. You’ll end up with tasty, wholesome apple chips you can store in sealed sandwich bags for up to three days. Toss them in a backpack, your purse, or leave them in the car for snacking on-the-go.

Keep snacks readily available in your kitchen, such as in a basket on the counter or portioned out in a shelf within the refrigerator to ensure your family will choose wholesome foods over convenient, less-healthy snacks. With a little planning and preparation, you can save time on busy days, while ensuring everyone gets the nutrients they need.

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SPECIAL SECTION

IN HARBORCREEK

If you have a home, you know how challenging it is to maintain it. Roofs leak, landscapes need weeding, and kitchens and baths need facelis. If you’re handy, you can get by with your own sweat equity. However, most people don’t have the skills, let alone the time, to tackle major household projects – many of which will require you spending more time at the office just to be able to tackle the price tags such projects come with. Here, we try to cover it all for you – from financing your project to enjoying it when it’s complete.

Building a home addition can be a good alternative to buying a new home or building a house from scratch. Besides saving money, it can be a means of investing in your home and customizing your home to serve your family’s specific needs and desires. But additions also bring up potential problems that may not make them the best option for everyone.

An addition can drastically change the way a house looks from the road or yard. An addition that isn’t well planned can look like it doesn’t belong or doesn’t match the rest of the house in terms of style or overall shape. Planning an addition carefully with a skilled architect is the best way to ensure that the house looks as good, or even better, than it did before the addition.

An architect should be able to produce sketches that give a sense of how the finished addition will look. To minimize the appearance of an addition, homeowners can usually choose to build onto the back of the existing house, thereby hiding the new construction from the road.

Depending on the size of an addition and the construction schedule, it may take weeks or months before an addition is completed. Bad weather can cause unanticipated delays, and working with an unreliable contractor can prolong the process even further. If a homeowner can’t afford to be patient during the planning and construction process,

moving into a new, larger home may be a better option.

An addition can be a good investment, helping to increase the value of a home. Using a home equity line of credit or getting a new mortgage that includes money to pay for the addition can be a wise financial decision, especially when interest rates are low. However, if the expected value of an addition – which a homeowner can estimate by studying the sale prices of nearby homes with similar characteristics – is less than its cost, it may be a poor investment.

An addition is likely to raise the value of a home. After the addition is completed, a new assessment will raise property taxes. Prior to adding on, homeowners should estimate the value of their home with the addition and compute a new annual tax liability based on current tax rates.

Building an addition is an ideal time to invest in energyefficient fixtures and construction. Windows that prevent hot or cool air from escaping and low-energy-consuming appliances can minimize the cost of an addition by reducing energy bills and its environmental impact.

Remodeling your bathroom is another popular way to jazz up your home as well as build equity. In some cases, not only is remodeling the bathroom an aesthetic choice but a functional choice as well. Giving your bathroom a boost continued on page 28 Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN HARBORCREEK

Building a home addition can be a good alternative to buying a new home or building a house from scratch. Besides saving money, it can be a means of investing in your home and customizing your home to serve your family’s specific needs and desires. But additions also bring up potential problems that may not make them the best option for everyone.

An addition can drastically change the way a house looks from the road or yard. An addition that isn’t well planned can look like it doesn’t belong or doesn’t match the rest of the house in terms of style or overall shape. Planning an addition carefully with a skilled architect is the best way to ensure that the house looks as good, or even better, than it did before the addition.

An architect should be able to produce sketches that give a sense of how the finished addition will look. To minimize the appearance of an addition, homeowners can usually choose to build onto the back of the existing house, thereby hiding the new construction from the road.

Depending on the size of an addition and the construction schedule, it may take weeks or months before an addition is completed. Bad weather can cause unanticipated delays, and working with an unreliable contractor can prolong the process even further. If a homeowner can’t afford to be patient during the planning and construction process, moving into a new, larger home may be a better option.

An addition can be a good investment, helping to increase the value of a home. Using a home equity line of credit or getting a new mortgage that includes money to pay for the addition can be a wise financial decision, especially when interest rates are low. However, if the expected value of an addition – which a homeowner can estimate by studying the sale prices of nearby homes with similar characteristics – is less than its cost, it may be a poor investment.

An addition is likely to raise the value of a home. After the addition is completed, a new assessment will raise property taxes. Prior to adding on, homeowners should estimate the value of their home with the addition and compute a new annual tax liability based on current tax rates.

Building an addition is an ideal time to invest in energyefficient fixtures and construction. Windows that prevent hot or cool air from escaping and low-energy-consuming appliances can minimize the cost of an addition by reducing energy bills and its environmental impact.

Remodeling your bathroom is another popular way to jazz up your home as well as build equity. In some cases, not only is remodeling the bathroom an aesthetic choice but a functional choice as well. Giving your bathroom a boost doesn’t always have to require a boatload of cash or space – just a little planning and creativity before you get started.

Refresh your bath’s look with a wow-worthy makeover that improves its style and function. Perhaps you have an old toilet that you want to replace with a high-efficiency model that will lower your water bill. Or perhaps the old tile is falling off your shower and you need to replace it. Whatever your continued on page 30

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f you get a tax refund, what will you do with it? This year, 50 percent of Americans receiving a tax refund say they plan to spend the extra money on bills or other household expenses, as opposed to vacations (15 percent), leisure activities (8 percent) or gifts (4 percent), according to a recent poll.

The survey also noted that 78 percent of Americans receiving their refund will be “smarter” about how they spend it, with 55 percent pledging they are more likely to use refund dollars on practical “needs” instead of “wants.”

Use the following tips to help stretch your tax refund dollars.

UÊ-iÌÊÕ«Ê> Êi iÀ}i VÞÊvÕ ` Putting away 6 to 12 months of expenses can really help if you find your home equity line of credit has been reduced, or if unexpected medical fees arise.

UÊ"«i Ê>ÊxÓ ÊV i}iÊÃ>Û }ÃÊ« > According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the cost of a college education continues to rise every year. Since 1999, prices for undergraduate tuition, room and board at public institutions rose 37 percent, and prices at private institutions rose 25 percent, after adjustment for inflation.

Planning early and setting aside money for college now is the most important thing you can do for your children’s collegiate success.

UÊ-ii Ê ÕÌÊV >ÃÃiÃÊÌ ÊL ÃÌÊLÕ`}iÌ }ÊÃ Ã Taking a budget or finance class at a community college or neighborhood center can help boost the financial planning skills that you currently have or help you learn new techniques.

UÊ,iÃi>ÀV ÊÌ iÊLiÃÌÊ`i> ÃÊ Ê Ì ÞÊiÝ«i Ãià There are expenses you will incur each month, such as food, transportation and cell phone costs, which are easy to re-evaluate and cut – as long as you do the right research.

For example, buying in bulk, investing in a bus pass or choosing an efficient, flexible prepaid wireless provider will help you save money each year. Always shop for the best deals.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT IN HARBORCREEK

situation is, there are many options to choose from, including do-it-yourself options.

One popular and inexpensive option is to have a theme for your bathroom. Examples could be a Disney theme for a child’s bathroom, or perhaps a beach theme. This can be accomplished by painting the walls, adding a wall border and by well-placed décor. Some larger and more costly bathroom updates include new flooring, new sink and vanity and a new bathtub or shower. These improvements will get even costlier if you paid someone to do it for you.

Decks on the rear or side of homes have become extremely popular in the United States.

Used for entertaining or just relaxing, decks come in all shapes, sizes, designs and material.

The most popular, and least expensive, deck material is treated wood. It is durable, however it will need to be painted or stained yearly or every other year depending on your climate. Composite decking products are building materials manufactured using a mixture of plastic and wood fiber.

Composite decking materials are very popular because they require less maintenance than wood and often use recycled

materials. Composite decking is easy to install and is guaranteed with a 20-year warranty against rotting, splitting, splintering or termite damage. However, composite decking can be very costly.

Vinyl decking made from Cellular PVC is a great choice for decking because it is essentially resistant to stains, mold, insects and fading. PVC material is low maintenance and is a sustainable building material. But like composite, it can get costly.

Powder coated aluminum decking can be used to create a watertight floor for your deck. This unique material will never splinter, rot or rust. LockDry Aluminum decking is cool to the touch and is available in five colors. Aluminum decking is strong and lightweight. The LockDry system can be used to create a dry space to use under your deck on rainy days.

Decks can be built right on the ground, or be elevated high in the air, depending on the design of your home. If you are building a deck yourself it is very important to check all local building codes and follow all of the guidelines very closely to ensure the safety and long-term durability of your deck.

Bringing your family together is often difficult. A family game room is a fantastic way to upgrade your home and bring the family together. Whether you have an unfinished basement, an unused attic room or an empty garage, you can transform it into a fantastic oasis where your family can spend countless enjoyable hours. There are many aspects to making your game room remodel a success. First you should talk to a Design/Build contractor about water access, waste lines and additional electricity needs. The contractor can also offer advice on any changes that might be necessary to update the space, whether it be additional insulation for a garage or attic room or waterproofing for a basement room.

Water access could also be an important aspect if you plan to have a bar or sink area. A Design/Build contractor can offer advice on what needs to be done to make the area completely usable. You might also want to speak with the contractor about creating an additional half bathroom for guests and family members to use when you’re entertaining.

Electricity for lighting and appliances is also incredibly important. If you are updating an unused area of your home, the current electric wiring may not be able to handle the additional demands of a game room. The Design/Build contractor can guide you through what will need to be updated and how much it will cost.

If finances are an issue there are definitely still projects you can complete yourself including painting, laying carpet, adding shelves or simply updating the décor.

Gone are the days when it was frowned upon to bring work home. Today a home is not a home unless it has a home office. Whether you are turning an extra bedroom into a continued on page 32

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Harborcreek

Bath Fitter 2125 Filmore Avenue, Erie, PA • (814) 864-2284 www.bathfitter.com Why spend your weekends renovating your bathroom when you’d rather be doing something you enjoy? Leave the work to BATH FITTER of Erie, where we provide customized bathroom remodeling products and services and can complete your bathroom transformation in just one day! We go beyond quick bathtub refinishing fixes. Isn't it time you had the beautiful bathroom you deserve? Bath Fitter - providing bathroom remodeling products and services since 1984.

J. Thomas Tree Service 325 Crescent Drive Erie, PA 16505 • (814) 882-5111 www.jthomastreeservice.com

Healthy, well-maintained trees, not only enhance a home’s beauty, but also can add up to 20 percent of the home’s value. So it’s crucial to hire a trained and certified tree care professional for maintenance or safe removal of your trees.

J. Thomas Tree Service has the skill and experience to make your trees and property look their best and we’re ready to go “Out On A Limb For You!”

Jackson Plumbing 3419 Shannon Rd, Erie, PA 16510 • (814) 899-1849 www.jacksonplumbingerie.com

Jackson Plumbing has been a family owned business since 1964. Our goal has always been to provide quality plumbing at an affordable price. As a third generation company, we strive to serve the Erie area with the best product, current technology, skilled craftsmanship, and dedicated service.

Our experienced technicians will provide you with a completed job that you are proud of. Call us about your bathroom remodel, drain cleaning, backflow service or installation, kitchen design, as well as any residential or commercial plumbing repairs.

Carter Lumber 4710 Buffalo Rd, Erie, PA 16510 • (814) 899-7625 www.carterlumber.com

In 1932 WE Carter opened the Carter Jones Lumber Company. 80 years later, his legacy has become one of the country’s top building materials suppliers.

Our services and customer care are what separate us from the rest. We’re your hometown, professional lumberyard committed to guiding you, no matter where projects take you.

Visit our website for custom estimates on a wide variety of products!

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN HARBORCREEK

workspace with store-bought furniture or constructing a full-scale two-level library and office, home offices are a regular part of what makes a house a home in 2012.

Making the space your own is essential to effective use of a home office. Create a space that makes you more productive and relaxed at the same time and that is a winning combination.

A desk is an essential part of most offices. Choose one that meets your needs. If all you need is a work top to use your laptop from, consider a computer cart and save the space for a comfortable chair or small sofa.

If you are in the market for a larger desk, consider office furniture resellers. They sell executive-grade used furniture for a fraction of the cost.

Bookcases or other storage can be a nice addition. Not only can they store books, but they are also great places to display awards or showcase your favorite collection of knicknacks or memorabilia. Decide whether you prefer furniture pieces or built-ins. Antique shops have great deals on beautiful bookcases, and most local cabinet shops can design and install custom built-ins. If you have a closet in your office, visit your local home center for a plethora of storage and organizing options.

A comfortable chair or two is a necessity. Choose long-lasting fabrics and sturdy frames. Go with classic styles that won’t end up as next year’s garage sale item. Test out the chair before you buy it. Desk chairs especially need to provide good support and be comfortable.

We live in a society of over-indulgence. Nothing shows this like the home theater. So many popular home magazines have a page dedicated to converting your basement into a home theater, or something similar. The HGTV website has 16 home theater features alone.

But how doable is the home theater in reality? First, you need a fairly large space, either a big family room or a basement. Second, you need to budget for all the furnishings including, of course, the stars of the show: home theater equipment – a big-screen TV, DVD player and speakers – and comfy seating. Also very popular for home theaters is floor and aisle lighting similar to real movie theaters, and perhaps even an old-fashioned popcorn maker.

Frankly, home theaters are generally for those with deep pockets because there really is no way to make a home theater Continued on next page

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cheaply. Still thinking of taking the plunge? The home improvement website Home Time has a really useful feature on home theater planning. It covers everything you’ll need to consider, like the space you’ll need and even suggested room layouts, to maximize your viewing pleasure.

Kitchens are the most popular room in the house to remodel.Many people consider the kitchen to be the center of the home and its most important component.

Another reason it is so popular to remodel is there are so many things in the kitchen that can be remodeled…. cabinets, cabinet hardware, countertops, floor, appliances, lighting, walls and sinks.

There is very little right or wrong when it comes to remodeling your kitchen; it comes down to personal taste. There are so many choices when it comes to style, design and type of material for every component of your kitchen. When remodeling there is much to consider: cost, what is your goal, what is your situation (pets or small children could help decide what type of flooring to use, for example) and what is the cost vs. equity value of the remodel.

If finances are an issue and you are not the handiest individual, there are still many simple and easy things you can do to add pizzazz and value to your kitchen. For example, you can paint your cabinets and add new handles rather than buying new cabinets. Adding a stylish splashguard behind your stove and sink is easy to do and adds great appeal. Painting the walls can also make a huge difference in your kitchen, as can changing the light fixture. If done well, landscaping can completely change the character and perception of a home.

Landscaping encompasses anything on the outside of the home including grass cutting, plants, flowers, rock, mulch, borders, vegetable gardens and more.

Beyond the aesthetics, landscaping can be beneficial to a property if designed properly. Solar heat absorbed through windows and roofs can increase cooling costs, and incorporating shade from landscaping elements can help reduce this solar heat gain. Shading and evapotranspiration (the process by which a plant actively moves and releases water vapor) from trees can reduce surrounding air temperatures as much as 9°F (5°C). Because cool air settles near the ground, air temperatures directly under trees can be as much as 25°F (14°C) cooler than air temperatures above nearby blacktop.

Using shade effectively requires you to know the size, shape, and location of the moving shadow that your shading device casts. Also, homes in cool regions may never overheat and may not require shading.

Therefore, you need to know what landscape shade strategies will work best in your regional climate and your microclimate.

Also, if you can determine how much water your plants actually need, then you won’t overwater them and waste water. It is important to not only understand a plant’s particular watering requirements, but also evapotranspiration.

Evapotranspiration (Et) is the amount of water that is evaporated from the soil and transpired through the plant’s leaves. This amount of water needs to be replaced through watering. If you know your area’s Et rate, you can plan the amount of water to be replaced through irrigation. It’s best to water or irrigate your plants in the early morning when evaporation rates are low. This also provides plants with water before midday when the evaporation rate is the highest.

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Continued on page 34 Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN HARBORCREEK

Lighting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to cast an enchanting spell on any outdoor space. It is also very effective for safety and security purposes.

Examples of exterior lighting include: torches, candles, lanterns, solar ground lighting, flood lights, lamp posts, landscape lighting and general light fixtures. For setting a mood the most popular lighting is candles or small lanterns.

For security and safety purposes, it is critical to have flood light or lamp posts or ground solar lighting or all.

A burglar is much more likely to enter a home without a lot of light on the outside illuminating the property.

With countless styles and options available, there are no right or wrong choices. The outdoor lighting a homeowner will choose will come down to budget and personal preference.

Many of us take pride in our homes, investing countless hours rearranging and remodeling the interior. But it can also be refreshing to step out of the confines of the inside and spend some time outside. It’s especially enjoyable during the spring, summer and fall months. When the weather is favorable, it’s difficult to miss out on a nice day outside.

But spending time outside doesn’t mean you have to forfeit

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Harborcreek

your creature comforts. With a few small adjustments you can make your outdoor space comfortable and inviting. Turning a yard, patio, porch or other outdoor area into a functional living space can be a rewarding task, and will expand your living space to the outdoors. With the right setup, you can spend more time in the sunshine and fresh air, and host events al fresco for friends, family and neighbors.

Options for outdoor living include outdoor kitchens, dramatic lighting, fireplaces or fire pits, a water feature (like a fountain), outdoor living rooms, gazebos and pavilions. With so many options to choose from, for most people it will come down to price, climate where they live and available space in which to be creative.

Ponds can be a wonderful addition to your property’s outdoor experience. Surprisingly, they are not as difficult to build as one might think.

Before you start, call 811 or your local one-call center to have electric and gas lines marked so you know where to dig to steer clear of them.

Then, when you map out the location of your pond, put it where it will be noticed – visible from a window, off a patio, or along a walkway – but away from the play areas of small children

or pets. Keep clear of major root systems or mature trees, which can block too much of the sunlight plants and fish need. You’ll also need to be within reach of a grounded exterior outlet so you can plug in a pump, an essential tool for keeping the water aerated; most pumps come with a maximum cord length of 25 feet, and extension cords are not recommended. You may need to bury the power cord a few inches down in PVC pipe to hide it.

Space permitting, you need at least 40 cubic feet for your pond – about 7 feet by 4 feet – to keep the water clean. An initial shallow terrace just inside the perimeter of the pond holds rocks that conceal the liner edge and keep it in place. A second, deeper terrace supports plants that live in the water and help balance the pond’s ecosystem. As you dig, you must slope the sides of the pond so that if the water freezes, the ice will push up instead of against the liner. Even in warmer climates, small ponds can change temperature rapidly, so if you’re adding fish you’ll want a deeper pond that will maintain a more consistent temperature and accommodate the fish – 18 to 24 inches for goldfish and at least 3 feet for koi.

To maintain the consistent depth of the water, you need to line the pond. A thin layer of sand and old newspapers or burlap bags softens the jagged edges of rocks and roots. But over that you will need to put a waterproof skin. There are several types of flexible liners meant for small ponds – made from polypropylene and EPDM, among other materials. Look for one that’s weatherresistant, so it will stand up to UV rays and freezing temperatures.

It should also be rated “fish-safe” if you plan to stock your pond and come with a warranty of 10 to 20 years so your pond will be watertight for many years to come.

Remodeling your home can generate tremendous equity for the future, as well as personal enjoyment in the present.

Remodeling projects come in all shapes, sizes and costs. Projects can range from replacing flooring or a faucet, to installing new trim work or tile and replacing windows and doors.

Remodeling can also take on the form of revamping or adding a bathroom, redoing a kitchen, overhauling your home’s exterior for improved curb appeal, or completing an addition to increase your home’s square footage and add valuable space. Big and small changes can both have an impact and will improve the way your home looks and functions, increasing its value and making it more enjoyable for you and your family.

The key to any remodeling job is to make sure it makes sense financially. Not all remodeling jobs are cost-effective.

For example, it is possible to pay $75,000 for a new addition, but an appraiser may be of the opinion that it only raised the value of your house by $50,000. It is very important that you do as much research as possible and talk to as many experienced professionals as possible so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

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PA 26571

ent Improvem

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2013 SPRING

While home sales may be sluggish, home remodels are roaring. In the second quarter of 2011, Americans were expected to spend $132.8 billion on remodeling – up 12.8% over the previous year, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

And it’s no surprise that these projects aren’t cheap.

In fact, the same studies report that 57% of home-remodeling projects cost at least $20,000.

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Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN HARBORCREEK

Since saving your pennies in a pickle jar is probably not enough to update your master bathroom with a slate walk-in shower or add granite countertops to your kitchen, explore these options to finance your new-and-improved home.

Purchase a Variable-Rate CD What it’s good for: Projects that can wait until a fixed time in the future with a price tag you can pay by saving.

If you plan to pay for the kitchen of your dreams the old-fashioned way – by saving for it – consider a variable-rate certificate of deposit. This savings vehicle is similar to a traditional savings account in that you can add money to it at any time (a fixed-rate CD does not allow additional deposits during the term of the CD).

In return for an interest rate that may go up or down, the interest rate often is slightly higher than a traditional CD when you buy it. You make a low minimum deposit and lock in your money for a fixed time – usually at least six or 12 months. If you withdraw your funds before then, you pay penalties and lose the interest.

Open a Home Equity Line of Credit What it’s good for: Long-term projects that can be paid off over five or fewer years.

The beauty of using the equity in your home is that you write yourself checks from a line of credit and pay interest on only what you borrow. Plus, the interest is typically tax deductible.

While current low interest rates add to the allure, these credit lines can be tough to come by in this climate of lowered home values and tight credit. When interest rates rise, your home improvement project may become more expensive than you anticipated.

Refinance Your Home What it’s good for: Larger projects for a home you plan to live in for the long term.

A “cash-out” refinance allows you to refinance your mortgage for an amount that is larger than your current mortgage. You get the difference in a check – effectively rolling the sum into a newly financed 15- or 30-year mortgage. This can be an attractive option, as mortgage rates have hovered at historic lows in recent years.

The downsides include closing fees that can be in the thousands of dollars. Plus, the threshold to qualify, including income and home-value requirements, can be high – both of which can pose a challenge in this economy.

Return on your Investment Thinking about adding a deck or revamping the kitchen so you can up the price of your home before you sell? You might want to crunch the 2010-11 Cost vs.

Value numbers, compiled by Remodeling magazine, before you do.

Projects with highest return on investment • Replacing entry door with steel door (102%) • Garage door replacement (84%) • Adding a wood deck (73%) • Minor kitchen remodel (73%) • Vinyl siding replacement (72%) • Wood window replacement (72%) • Attic bedroom addition (72%) Projects with lowest rate of return on investment • Home office remodel (46%) • Sunroom addition (49%) • Bathroom addition (53%) The above numbers assume you’re hiring out the labor on the project. If it’s a do-ityourself project, and you do a good job, the rate of return on your investment will be higher.

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In the beginning of the 20th century about half of all people died before will be needed. These disciplines will also be needed in home care they reached their 50th birthday. Currently, most people can expect agencies as more and more people will want to remain at and be to live until at least the age of 75 years old! The fastest growing age cared for at home. group is the 85+ years and older population. Thirty years ago, for The possible professions in geriatrics and eldercare are endless and someone to reach 100 years old was indeed a milestone. Now, run across the spectrum of education from a high school diploma to it is commonplace. an advanced degree such as a master’s, medical or doctorate degree.

So what does this say for the field of geriatrics and gerontology?

The bottom line is there will be a demand in every area of geriatrics Simplified, geriatrics refers to the and gerontology. This is health care issues of older persons. definitely an interdisciplinary Gerontology is the study of the field with all fields working overall aging of individuals that entogether to provide the compasses physical, mental, best quality of care for the emotional, and social changes in older adult. older adults. Because of the increase So…. how does one know if in this demographic, the field of this field is for them? Working aging promises to offer very with this demographic group diverse employment opportunities is not for everyone. Many in the future. schools now require service At one time, being over the age of learning and volunteering as 65 was associated with retirement, a prerequisite of their course moving out of one’s home, having curriculum. Volunteering many medical problems and opens many doors for career slowing down to the point of being investigation. Brevillier Village in a rocking chair in front of the TV. has coordinated a 6 week Now, because of the great medical intergenerational program advances with medication and with Klein Elementary School managing chronic illness, people for many years. After the 6 live very active lifestyles sometimes week program, many students into their 90’s and beyond. come back and participate in Job opportunities will be our Summer Junior Volunteer By: Lisa Anderson, Vice President of Community Outreach, Brevillier Village available in programs that promote Program. And a few years health and wellness of body and later, some students seek mind such as Senior Centers, employment at Brevillier intergenerational programs, and Village remembering years leisure and recreational programs earlier how much they enjoyed for older, independent adults. Estate the program with Klein School. planning and financing everyone’s Places like Brevillier Village long term care needs will be are always seeking volunteers essential especially since everyone as are senior centers, and has the potential to live 20 or 30 other programs serving years beyond the age of retirement! the elderly.

Teaching courses and research in Others do their college geriatrics and gerontology will be placements and practicums needed in colleges and universities. here. We welcome all Advocating in the legislature will disciplines that need to do be key to put aging issues in the student placements in social forefront where our laws are made. work, rehabilitation, business, There will also be many jobs nursing, food services and available that provide direct care to dietetics and recreation a more frail, chronically ill older therapy. Several students adult. Those older adults living in that have done student retirement communities will need placements here were hired meals and special diets, “hands on” after graduation. direct care such as bathing, dressing, Another way to explore help with medications, and your interest in gerontology rehabilitative care such as physical, is to take a class to learn speech and occupational therapies. basic concepts of aging. These Social service professionals will be classes are held at the college the “gatekeepers and bridges” level and in some high schools. to all the services needed to The aging demographic is adequately take care of our elderly. only going to expand even A demand for more certified, more as the “Baby Boomer” geriatric physicians that are trained population ages. We need to to care for these older persons and be ready to care for them.

If you are interested in employment at Brevillier Village, their chronic illnesses and needs Job security anyone? please feel free to come and complete an application or go to our website at www.brevillier.org.

The Aging Population…

Who Will Care for Them?

Harborcreek | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

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