FALL 2010
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
INSIDE
Education Through the Ages
Bedford County Celebrates Bounty of the County
Contents Bedford County | FALL 2010 |
FA L L 2 0 1 0
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside page 2
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8 Publisher’s Message
FEATURES
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Play It Safe © 2010 UPMC
Hip, Hip, Hooray! There’s Never Been a Better Time for Hip Replacement Surgery
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Kick off the fall sports season and keep your kids in the game with this guide to help prevent sports injuries. (page 3)
page 3
Play It Safe New Cancer Center Brings Latest in Cancer Care Treatment
page 4
Are You Concussion-Savvy? School Lunches That Make the Grade
page 5
Who Knew Rehab Could Be So Much Fun?
page 6
A New Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians
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Secrets of the Successful Middle School Student By Kelli McElhinny | 6
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Moms Returning to School
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Face Uphill, But Not Impossible, Battle By Pamela Palongue | 7
COMMUNITY INTEREST
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Alternatives to College By Jonathan Barnes | 8
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Planning Your Way to College By Karen Ferrieri | 10
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Bounty of the County
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UPMC Today
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13
ON THE COVER
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Older Adults in Bedford County
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Bedford County Municipalities
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IN KIDS
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Local vendor enjoys the Bedford Farmers’ Market.
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Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1
FALL 2010
Welcome to the debut issue of Bedford County! As summer winds down, I hope that you and your family had some time to get away and enjoy yourselves - even if it was for the day at some local hidden treasure spot. Those are the places we love to highlight in these pages. I met one of our readers while I was finishing up some business with one of the municipalities we serve. He was sitting at a picnic table near a veterans’ monument under a pristine blue sky on a quiet and hot July day. The man recognized my photo from the magazine and said his dad used to enjoy reading about local things. He explained that his father had passed away several years ago. He pointed to the monument and said his father never spoke about the war, but always talked about some close friends he served with that didn’t come home. “I come by here about once a week or so to enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the birds,” he said. “We miss him, but here, I know that he’s catching up with some old friends.” To say that I was touched would be an understatement, but you can see how this one little area can mean so much to someone. Tell us about places that are special to you - places with history and a story behind them. Send your story to: Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or mail them to IN Community Magazines, 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317.
Wayne Dollard Publisher In this first edition of Bedford County you’ll find interesting topics related to education. We thought it was appropriate to address this issue as all of us can somehow relate to the “back to school” idea. The notion of continually learning something new whether in middle school or as an older adult in the Bedford County community, is not a new concept, just one we should consider as the seasons chang e. A new feature we have begun in this edition is entitled Older Adults in Bedford County. We address the subject of scams and how older adults can learn to protect themselves. I heard of a couple who was scammed on the phone not too long ago - I was so disturbed by the fact that there are dishonest people who can find personal information about your family via the social networking sites and use it to your take your identity, money and other possessions. Please be careful when speaking to anyone by phone who calls you. Even if you think you know them, verify the information before disclosing anything! I hope you enjoy this new feature and I am looking for other interesting topics that are important to older adults. If you would kindly email me with your suggestions at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com, I would so grateful!
PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com MANAGING EDITOR Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Karen Ferrieri Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Chris Weber GRAPHIC DESIGN Cassie Brkich Joe Milne Susie Doak Tamara Tylenda Pati Ingold Tracey Wasilco Jan McEvoy PHOTOGRAPHERS Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions ADVERTISING SALES Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Rob Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Jason Huffman Tara Reis Jessie Jones Vincent Sabatini Connie McDaniel Michael Silvert Brian McKee RJ Vighetti
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
www.incommunitymagazines.com WINTER ISSUE DEADLINE: November 5, 2010
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor 2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
IN Bedford County is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting Bedford County 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.
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Bedford County
Each year, Downtown Bedford, Inc. hosts a Farmers' Market every Wednesday, beginning in early May in the Public Square. Residents gathered to purchase fresh produce, plants and much more!
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
Tom Watt and the Fruitcakes Band Alma Shaffer
Limo winner Adam Trimpey
Greg and Stacy Glossner
Chatty, Bill May and LouAnn Moore
Lisa Parr
Rick Smith, Ray Shorts and Kellie Goodman-Shaffer
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Bedford County
Jimmy Buffet Blast arrot Heads rejoiced this past summer, by coming together to raise money for the "Random Acts Of Kindness" fund. Hosted by the Bedford Sunrise Rotary, guests were treated to live entertainment by Tom Watt & the Fruitcakes Band, a silent auction and plenty of fun! For more information on joining the Bedford Sunrise Rotary (or just supporting the parties!) call Brian Jeffries at 814.623.4886 or Jim Gonsman 814.623.2101.
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Patty Chwatek with son Todd Chwatek
Event Coordinator Greg Kinsley and his wife
Nancy and Martin Trostle John and Brandy Clark
John and Brandy Clark
Chatty, Bill May and LouAnn Moore Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
d d i l e M Schoo l u o s t f t f t h n e s e S s u e c c r e c d l u St Se
s s e c c u S o Steps t ook
By Kelli McElhinny
ent b m n g i s s a • Use an r of u o h e n o e • Schedul k time per day homewor nments g i s s a r o f ls • Set goa hen a preteen leaves elementary school behind to move on to the middle grades, the transition can be a daunting one. The building’s bigger, and it houses more students. All of the new experiences can add up to a trying time for incoming students. Most middle graders are anxious about the change that is coming. Going beyond the safety net of elementary school is sometimes hard for a child. Along with the physical, emotional, and social changes they bring, the middle school years can be difficult for a child.
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Bedford County
Experts agree that a middle school program that emphasizes the importance of addressing any remedial needs is important. The opportunities to do so beyond middle school are few and far between. Honing basic math and reading skills are particularly important. Reading is really the first step towards independent learning. In addition to taking more challenging classes, middle school students also get instruction from a wider variety of teachers, an experience many students relish. Middle school also gives students the chance to explore extracurricular activities like athletics and the arts. Middle school brings adjustments beyond the classroom as well. Changes in the brain can prompt changes in behavior and emotions. The social climate evolves as well, with students meeting an entirely new pool of classmates. Fortunately, parents can take steps to make the transition to middle school a smooth one. The first step is to help students build a good foundation for keeping track of assignments and completing them. Students need to develop a set of study and organizational skills at this age. Students can build those skills by using the assignment book they’re given on the first day of class, for starters. It is also suggested that parents schedule one hour of non-negotiable homework time. Even if a student doesn’t have any assignments on a particular day, that time can be used to plan ahead or review the day’s lessons, for example. Goal-setting, with a focus on short-term objectives rather than longterm ones, also is a priority. As far as the social changes go, parents should be accepting as their children place a greater emphasis on relationships with peers rather than those with family members. Parents should be available, but not nosy, regarding a student’s business. In helping their children conquer middle school, parents’ efforts will endure beyond the eighth grade. Students who are successful in middle school generally can go on to be successful in high school and beyond. Mastering the social and organizational skill set is of utmost importance to a student’s success.
By Pamela Palongue
ith the high rate of unemployment, it will not come as a shock that many mothers are returning to school for more education in order to be more employable and to be able to provide better benefits for their families. What might surprise you is that more than ever, universities, trade and specialty schools are offering extremely flexible schedules and payment plans for the special challenges that moms face in furthering their education. One of the major drawbacks to attending college is the loss of income while in school. Although night classes have been available at most universities for years now, Saturday classes are now becoming more common and many of the schedules include meeting every other weekend. This gives working moms the ability to hold down a day job for 40 hours
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One of the major drawbacks to attending college is the loss of income during the week, while still retaining the allimportant health insurance benefits for their family while attending college on the weekends. More classes than ever are being offered on Saturdays. And, of course, night classes offer greater flexibility for employed mothers as well. Another challenge for moms attempting to advance their education is finding care for their
child while they are in school. The high cost of daycare can be prohibitive for those already on a tight budget. Many mothers have the advantage of family members close by to pitch in with child care duties, but this may not be practical for some mothers whose parents or inlaws live hours away. One great way to resolve this issue is to trade babysitting time. When mothers coordinate their class schedules, they can attend classes at opposite times so the other mother can babysit both mothers’ children. Another great way to overcome the high cost of daycare is to trade services. An individual may be willing to provide child care in exchange for house cleaning or having errands performed. Retired individuals who have the most flexible hours are a great solution in this arrangement. For some, completing afour year college may not be practical either for time considerations or financial reasons. There are many careers available with educational programs that are less than two years. Education and the medical field consistently rank highest for career fields experiencing the most growth. For individuals who already have a four-year degree, universities offer a teaching program that can be completed in one year. Although a bachelor of science in nursing is a four year degree program, some local hospitals offer two year nursing programs sans the degree. Some of these facilities offer free education in exchange for two years of devoted service at their facility. For even shorter programs in the medical field, medical assistants and emergency medical technicians offer alternatives. Local EMT programs last approximately four months and the tuition is under $200.
In addition to the above-mentioned career fields, information technology, massage therapists, barbers, cosmetologists and medical insurance billing all offer programs with shorter duration for busy moms and most offer payment options so that upfront payment of full tuition is not required. Each woman’s path to educational advancement is different, but perseverance is the common denominator. With dedication and hard work, every woman can accomplish her goals. And now more than ever, there are many avenues to achieving your dream.
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
Alternatives to
By Jonathan Ba rnes
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hen Tom Kinslow joined the local insulators union 26 years ago, eight sons of union members and two non-relatives of members were admitted to the union each year. Times have changed and now being kin to a union member no longer ensures a candidate entrée into Insulators Local #2, based in Clinton, PA. Competition for the entry slots into the union is fierce. It’s easy to see why, when the economics speak for themselves—work in the trades can often be a high-paying career. Trade work also can provide steady employment that is fulfilling to people who like to work with their hands and who like to work outside an office setting. College is not for everyone and for would-be students who are not fully committed to a university education, taking on the burden of college debt could be foolish when the payoff is unclear. But for those with a strong work ethic, some mechanical aptitude and a desire to be a part of building something tangible, becoming a member of a union could be an ideal career choice. Fortunately for those in the Pittsburgh area, the chance to work with the insulators, electricians, laborers, carpenters or other unions is greater than ever, due to the stateof-the-art training programs these and other local trade unions provide. His career choice has worked well for Kinslow, an Avalon resident, who began work with the union on a permit basis. He made just $6.44 per hour and $11 per hour on his first and second jobs as an insulator. His rate of pay now is $32 hour. He is proud of the work he has done, including his labor in building the Rivers Casino on the North Side, as well as the work he has done on many jobs in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Illinois, Maryland and New York. The fact that he isn’t doing the same thing every work day appeals to Kinslow. “You aren’t going to the same place every day, or doing the same thing,” he said, adding that he also likes to be able to work as much as he wants and has often taken summers off throughout his career. The work isn’t for everybody, Kinslow said, noting that workplace conditions often are dirty and hot. The apprenticeship commitment could make some flinch, too. It took
a job is “all Getting in who you know. We help you build that network. All of our instructors have worked in the field.
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Bedford County
Kinslow four years to get into the union, followed by a four-year apprenticeship. His union admits about 10 apprentices each year and all of those candidates must have math skills in order to perform the work. Not everyone wants to put in the time to apprentice, but the payoff for navigating the process is great. Steamfitters Local #499 takes in from 12 to 30 new members each year, a group that is winnowed from about 300 who take the initial test and interview for a slot with the union, said Ken Broadbent, business manager for Steamfitters Local #449. Unlike some jobs, there is no age discrimination in the apprentice selection process—people in their twenties and middle-aged folks starting a second career have an equal shot at union membership. The average age of an apprentice is actually 27 years old, said Jason Fincke, executive director of the Builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania, a labor/management organization that includes both contractors and unions. Apprentices in the trades earn between $10 and $15 per hour their first year, receiving average annual raises of $3.50 per hour during their training. The average building trades worker earns $45,000 per year, Fincke noted. Western Pennsylvania has 17 union apprenticeship schools and all are tuition-free, Fincke said. “One of the primary missions of the Guild is recruitment,” he said. Pittsburgh’s North Hills also is home to one of the many state-of-theart apprentice training centers in the region. The Western Pennsylvania Laborers Training and Education Trust Fund (WPLTETF) is a training center located along Deercreek Road in Saxonburg. At the facility, apprentices for the area’s laborer’s unions are trained. The trainees complete 372 hours of classroom work and perform 4,000 hours of workplace training in the field to become journeymen laborers working in building or highway/bridge construction. Jim Kempinski, training director for the WPLTETF, said applicants need only pay a $25 application fee and pass aptitude tests and drug tests to be admitted to the program. In addition to the high rate of pay a trainee receives, other benefits of the job also are measurable, he noted. “The environment is like going to the gym and getting paid for it,” Kempinski said.
WORSHIP NEWS Pittsburgh’s north area also includes a long-standing training center not affiliated with any union. Bidwell Training Center is located along Metropolitan Street in the North Side and provides free vocational training to 225 students per year. The center offers eight majors—four non-medical majors and four medical-related majors. Non-medical majors include crew laboratory technician, office technician, culinary arts and horticulture technology. Other majors include electronic records management, medical claims processor and pharmaceutical technology medical coder. Bidwell devises and revises its courses of study by working with local employers to correctly assess what occupations have the greatest need for workers. Students of the school can have a college degree and still be admitted to a program, which they will be trained in free-of-charge. Students attend classes on weekdays and often work in their field of study in externships which pay with experience and wages. Placement of Bidwell Training Center grads in their fields of study currently occurs with 78 percent of graduates, said Bridgette Kennedy, admissions representative for Bidwell. Entry-level wages of graduates average between $10 and $12 per hour, she said, noting that the school has full-time career counselors to help students find employment. The network created by the school with local employers helps in that process. “Getting a job is all in who you know,” Kennedy said. “We help you build that network. All of our instructors have worked in the field.” For more information on apprenticeships in the trades in the Pittsburgh area, visit the Builder’s Guild of Western Pennsylvania’s web site at www.buildersguild.org.
We are currently compiling an updated list of houses of worship in Bedford County. If you would like your information posted, please contact marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your name, phone, address and web site.
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IN Bedford County is published quarterly and is carrier route mailed to all county businesses and households.
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Planning Your Way to
ow important is involvement in extracurricular activities? Is doing volunteer work important? How do GPA and SAT scores factor into acceptance? These are the questions many teens and their parents are pondering as they look into the next phase within the education process – college. By Karen Ferrieri
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here are a ton of resources out there to guide you through the process of ‘getting ready for college,’ but this process can be very overwhelming. Many people search online for answers and you can definitely find a number of websites online such as www.ehow.com to help guide you through the process. Ehow.com reads like a ‘how to get into college’ instruction manual.
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WORK WITH YOUR SCHOOL GUIDANCE COUNSELOR TO PLAN YOUR CLASSES. PLAN OUT YOUR CLASSES CAREFULLY.
TAKE THE MOST CHALLENGING COURSE WORK YOU CAN BECAUSE COLLEGE ADMISSION COUNSELORS WOULD raTHER SEE YOU TACKLE HARDER COURSES THAN TO SEttLE FOR EASIER COURSES JUST TO GET HIGHER GraDES. They look for overall grade trends and class rank. Be careful though not to take too many or to set yourself up for failure. NAIL YOUR PSATS, SATS AND ACT ExAMS.
GET INVOLVED IN ExTraCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES IN YOUR SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY. Stay committed to following through for a few months or years with that activity. DEVELOP A THEME THAT RUNS THROUGH YOUR HIGH SCHOOL YEARS WITH THE CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES THAT YOU PARTICIPATE IN. For instance, if you love to paint, take art classes at school, volunteer with organizations that promote art awareness, etc. PLAN YOUR SUMMER WITH COLLEGE IN MIND. Stay active and consider what your theme is and stay involved with things that are in line with the theme. GET TO KNOW KEY PEOPLE AT THE COLLEGE THAT YOU WANT TO AttEND.
Following these steps will enable you to have a college application worthy of acceptance. Mr. Bob Atkins, Director of Admissions for Washington and Jefferson College summed it up pretty simply. “Most colleges are looking for the best fit for the college.” For instance, he said, “While academics are important, extracurricular involvement, being able to show leadership ability, employment history and progression of grades are also equally as important.” Atkins recommended, “If possible, find out how to get a face-to-face interview with someone within the college. Consider when you apply for any college program that the majority of applicants are all 4.0 high school students with the SAT scores necessary to get them into a great college. So, what will make you stand out against them? Then, go out and do what it takes to prove that you have the necessary means to show motivation to succeed and the ability to continue to grow within any program.
“Cons ider a balan betwe ce en ac adem ics an involv d bein ed in g the co wheth mmun er it’s ity – sports , e mploy or vol ment, untee r activ ities. Stude nts sh ouldn overw 't be helme d in th eir pla but w nning ell-rou , nded. “
And, while colleges are seeing more ‘Gap Year’ admission students [those who have chosen to take a year off after high school before entering college] they look at those applicants to see what they’ve done during the ‘off’ year that shows productivity.” While all of the information out there is readily available, if you do have questions or run into stumbling blocks along the way, your high school guidance counselor is there to assist you throughout the process as well. Make sure you have a target list of schools that contains three tiers that you go after. Your first tier is your safety schools, those that you feel strongly you will get accepted to. The second tier on the list contains your target schools, those schools that you really would like to go to, however you have to be really certain to meet the grade requirements, etc. to make sure that you stand out against applicants to get accepted. And, finally, the third tier is your reach schools, those schools that really are a far stretch for you, but that you’d like to at least try to get accepted to. Having this tiered list of schools that you are applying to will ensure acceptance to a school that you are interested in.” Once you have a career path in mind and a few colleges/universities that you are considering, do your research and do not be afraid to consult with your guidance counselor, college admission staff and others who currently work within the profession that you are interested in. You’ll be amazed at how much information and assistance is out there to help you prepare for college entrance.
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
REAL ESTATE
SCHOOLS Don’t Just Teach, They SELL here your child goes to school involves a lot more than whether their QPA can get them into the right college. It also is a huge factor when people are shopping for an existing home, or looking to build a new home altogether. Jeff Costa of Costa Home Builders said his clients look for top-performing school districts to build in. “With new home construction in some of the top school districts, a lot of times they don’t have a lot of land to build houses. People would love to build a home there, however the land is usually not in the best shape or there’s already a house on it,” he said. “Coming down the list a little bit, where people are building homes is in the best school district where there are nice lots available. It definitely plays a role in where people want to build.” Dori Thaner, who represents developments in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, said school district quality has a “big effect” on peoples’ decision to buy homes. “The people who are buying in the upscale housing developments, they know that it’s all about education, getting their children the best education that they can. And they’re willing to move around and maybe not go into an area that they really want to be in because the school system is not there,” she said. A great, non-biased tool for potential homeowners to access information on school districts is Standard and Poor’s www.SchoolMatters.com, where any schools can be compared based on a variety of factors.
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Bedford County
BY JOSH WETMORE
Bedford County
It’s a comparison that could give you the edge when it comes to your property value when it’s time to buy or sell. “There are a ton of places that have lots available, where their school districts are not as successful with test scores and different reputations, so the lots sell for a lot less money,” Costa said. “The school district, I believe, is the driving force of the real estate market.” I get calls all the time where people don’t have to be in the number one or the number three school district, but they do want to be in the top 20. If you’re looking at the hundred school districts in the Pittsburgh Business Times, the top 20 is probably where you’re going to see the people building houses.”
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside
Play It Safe Kick off the fall sports season and keep your kids in the game with this guide to help prevent sports injuries. (page 3)
© 2010 UPMC
page 2
Hip, Hip, Hooray! There’s Never Been a Better Time for Hip Replacement Surgery
page 3
Play It Safe New Cancer Center Brings Latest in Cancer Care Treatment
page 4
Are You Concussion-Savvy? School Lunches That Make the Grade
page 5
Who Knew Rehab Could Be So Much Fun?
page 6
A New Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians
Hip, Hip, Hooray! There’s never been a better time for hip replacement surgery, thanks to an innovative procedure at UPMC Horizon It was just a year ago that Jeanne Falkner* began feeling pain in her right hip. As the pain grew worse, she and her husband stopped going to restaurants or socializing with friends. Her pain soon became unbearable. “I could hardly walk, and I couldn’t sleep. The pain was unbelievable — and constant. Nothing would make the pain go away. It killed my friendships, because all I wanted to do was stay home and get as comfortable as possible,” says Mrs. Falkner. In June, at age 63, she decided to have total hip replacement surgery at the recommendation of Jerome Bonier, DO, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC Horizon and a member of its orthopaedic practice, Parkside Orthopedics–UPMC. The surgery left her pain free and grateful to benefit from a new hip implant design used by Dr. Bonier. “I’m able to move again. All that pain went away immediately,” Mrs. Falkner says.
New Implant Technology Benefits Patients Hip replacement surgery is a common procedure for millions of people like Mrs. Falkner who suffer from debilitating arthritis. Although conventional hip replacements have proven to be highly successful in helping patients remain active, about four percent experience a hip dislocation after surgery. When this happens, patients often need additional surgery. The hip implant technology used at UPMC Horizon helps reduce hip dislocations and increase mobility in patients. It also shows potential for longer durability, says Dr. Bonier, who — along with Edward Uberti, DO, and Mark Gardner, DO, orthopaedic surgeons at UPMC Horizon — is using this technology in all his hip replacement surgeries. “We are extremely pleased to offer this implant technology. It’s designed for a more natural fit and performance, plus greater strength and longevity,” says Dr. Bonier. “This means patients like Jeanne can recover faster and achieve their lifestyle goals more quickly and with greater confidence.”
A Better Fit According to Dr. Bonier, the implant works better because everything fits better, reflecting a more accurate match with the human body. The key component is the anatomically correct femoral head (ball portion of the hip), which is much larger than conventional hip prostheses and allows more natural hip movement. Replacing her hip with the “big one” was reassuring to Mrs. Falkner. “I feel more comfortable with an implant that matches the size of the original,” she says. The design provides patients with up to 138 degrees of motion. In comparison, everyday tasks such as climbing stairs require 67 degrees of motion, sitting and rising from a chair requires 104 degrees of motion, and tying a shoe requires 124 degrees. “Anatomic, or larger-sized, femoral heads not only allow for increased range of motion and better function, they also help to reduce the risk of dislocation,” says Dr. Bonier.
Designed to Last In designing the implant to accommodate a larger femoral head, the manufacturer developed a more durable, longerlasting, and more wear-resistant polyethylene (plastic) liner for the cup-shaped socket of the hip joint. Laboratory testing has shown that these new “highly cross-linked polyethylene” liners have decreased wear by 97 percent. That means an extended life for the hip implant, especially important for younger and more active patients, Dr. Bonier says. He encourages anyone whose lifestyle has been seriously impacted by hip pain and limited mobility, despite undergoing conservative treatment, to consider having hip surgery using this new implant. “Patients can be assured that this new technology holds the promise of returning them to a higher level of function than previously available to hip replacement candidates,” adds Dr. Bonier. To learn more about hip replacement surgery at UPMC Horizon, contact Parkside Orthopedics–UPMC at 800-287-5854. Offices are conveniently located in New Castle, Hermitage, and Greenville. * Mrs. Falkner’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
Play It Safe Many youth sports injuries can be prevented by following these practical suggestions Sports and exercise offer undeniable benefits. But for millions of young athletes, they also bring risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sports injuries among high school athletes alone are on the rise, accounting for nearly two million injuries, 500,000 doctor visits, and 30,000 hospitalizations every year. Injuries range from strains, sprains, and fractures to concussions and heat stroke.
Freddie H. Fu, MD, chairman of the UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and renowned sports medicine expert, blames much of the increase in injuries on today’s trend of kids focusing year-round on one sport.
Experts attribute the high rate of youth sports injuries to:
Dr. Fu says it’s important for parents and coaches alike to understand the dangers and take steps to keep children safe. He recommends the following:
4) Ensure proper techniques are used for throwing, running, and swinging.
1) Cross-train and avoid specializing in one sport to create balance and avoid breakdowns in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.
6) Maintain good hydration when playing to avoid fatigue and keep the body cool.
• overuse • trauma • lack of preventive measures (including proper equipment, training, and conditioning) The CDC estimates that more than half of all sports injuries involving children and teens are preventable.
“Kids are doing too much. Now, there’s no off-season. When they’re not playing, they are practicing and at a very intense level,” he says.
Keep Your Kids in the Game
2) Take time off from competition to allow muscles and joints time to rest and recover.
3) Use the right gear and make sure it’s in good condition and fits properly. Insist your child uses the recommended safety gear.
5) Take time to stretch before a workout/game and cool down after.
Remember, playing sports should be fun. Check out our website at www.UPMC.com/Today for details on the top four injuries that occur among young athletes.
$6 million facility will open in January 2011
New Cancer Center Brings Latest in Cancer Care Treatment Mercer County residents will have access to highly advanced cancer treatment services close to home with the construction of the UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC Horizon. Scheduled for completion in January 2011, the $6 million project will bring radiation oncology services to UPMC Horizon. Located at Horizon’s Shenango Valley campus in Farrell, the 7,135-square-foot center will feature the latest technology, including gated image-guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which delivers precise doses of radiation in a shorter period of time than traditional IMRT, so patients can breathe normally during treatment. Through its affiliation with UPMC Cancer Centers and the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), UPMC Horizon provides area residents with access to the clinical and research expertise of a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. Working closely with UPCI and the UPMC Cancer Centers network, the new center will provide the most advanced cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Are You ConcussionSavvy? Measure your understanding of concussions with these five questions. Most of us think of a concussion primarily as a sportsrelated injury — and statistics show that one out of every five reported concussions is sports-related. But any violent shaking or blow to the head can lead to a concussion. “A suspected concussion should be taken seriously — whether it happens on the playing field, in your home, or on the job,” says Michael (Micky) Collins, PhD, assistant director of the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program. A nationally recognized expert in sports-related concussions, Dr. Collins co-created — along with Mark R. Lovell, PhD, director of the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program and Joseph C. Maroon, MD, vice chairman of Neurosurgery at UPMC Presbyterian and neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers — the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) “Concussion Tool Kit for Physicians.”
How much do you really know about concussions? Take this true-false quiz to test your understanding of this common but potentially life-threatening injury: 1. A concussion is a brain injury. True or False 2. Signs and symptoms of concussion can develop right after the injury or even hours or days later. True or False 3. Concussions occur even if the person has not been knocked unconscious. True or False 4. A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first can slow recovery or increase the likelihood of long-term problems. True or False 5. Concussions can have a more serious effect on a young, developing brain. True or False If you answered “true” to all five questions, you’re ahead of the game — but there’s more you should know. Get the facts about concussion symptoms and treatment at www.UPMC.com/Today.
Did You Know? ImPACT , the concussion evaluation system most widely in use worldwide by professional, college, and high school sports teams, was developed at UPMC by Dr. Lovell, Dr. Collins, and Dr. Maroon. TM
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www.UPMC.com/Today
School Lunches That Make the Grade Kids need more than pens, pencils, and notebooks to successfully get through a day at school. They also need healthy lunches. Here are some tips on how to make sure your child eats healthy foods while at school: • Get your child involved with the planning and packing of lunches. • Acknowledge his or her likes and dislikes. • Assemble lunch the night before to avoid morning delays and/or hurried choices. • If your child buys lunch at the school cafeteria, make sure he or she knows the difference between healthy and unhealthy foods. • Teach your child about portions and portion control. • Think healthy and think light. • Teach your child to eat until no longer hungry, not until “stuffed.”
Stumped for ideas on what to pack? Try these healthy options: Main dishes ✔ Sandwich made with wholegrain bread, lean meat, and low-fat cheese; or peanut butter and all-fruit jelly on whole-grain bread ✔ Pita pocket stuffed with shredded turkey, chicken, or light roast beef; or grated vegetables, low-fat cheese, and light salad dressing ✔ Mini pizza, whole-grain English muffin, or bagel topped with turkey pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and garlic herb cream cheese ✔ Low-fat tuna or chicken salad on a mini bagel Fruits and vegetables ✔ Red pepper strips, carrots, celery, sugar snap peas, or green beans with salsa or light ranch dressing ✔ Fresh fruit ✔ Fruit cups ✔ Applesauce
Healthy snacks ✔ Low-fat yogurt, either in a cup or a tube ✔ Wheat crackers with peanut butter or low-fat cheese ✔ Cottage cheese, with or without fruit ✔ Pudding made with skim milk ✔ String cheese ✔ Salsa with baked chips ✔ Peanuts ✔ Small bag of light popcorn Occasional treats ✔ Baked or low-fat potato chips ✔ Fun-size candy bars ✔ Low-fat cookies Foods to limit ✔ Regular snack chips (potato, tortilla, etc.) ✔ Full-size candy bars ✔ Regular cookies ✔ Canned fruits in sweetened syrup
Innovation at UPMC
Who Knew Rehab Could Be So Much Fun? Last November, John Rizzi,* 50, noticed numbness and tingling in his feet. A few weeks later he suddenly fell while hunting. By January, he was paralyzed from the chest down — only able to move his head and shrug his shoulders. Eventually diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that damaged the protective covering of the nerves (myelin sheath) and interfered with the signaling process, John arrived in March at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its Gaming and Robotics Center for intensive therapy. “When I saw the advanced equipment, I was amazed. It inspired me to do whatever I could to walk again,” John says. Playing computer games and doing simulated tasks using robotic devices such as the Armeo Boom enabled John to move his arms and regain fine motor skills. A robotic treadmill called the Lokomat made it possible for him to walk. “I started seeing gains right away. That made me want to work even harder,” he says.
Fun and Games for Effective Rehabilitation The Armeo Boom — available for clinical use at UPMC and nowhere else in the nation — is one of several cutting-edge devices used in rehabilitation at the center. To use it, patients strap their arm into a sling attached to an overhead boom. Robotic supports allow patients to move their arm while playing reach-and-retrieval computer games, such as solitaire and placing apples in a shopping cart, along with simulated tasks such as cooking or cleaning. “Rehabilitation can be very tedious and painful. A lot of repetition is needed to teach the body to move again,” says Michael Boninger, MD, director of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute. “Using this technology is kind of sneaky. It’s great to see patients enjoy playing a game when you know they are actually working hard at rehabilitation.” * Mr. Rizzi’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.
John, who has regained most of his abilities, agrees. “It was more like playing a game. You’re working, the sweat is running down your face, but it’s fun. You’re getting the movement and the repetition you need, but you’re laughing,” he says. Dr. Boninger says patients benefit from using the very latest technology. UPMC researchers have developed their own designs, and companies often send their prototypes here for evaluation. Other innovative devices used at the Center include the GameCycle , a machine invented at the University of Pittsburgh that combines a stationary hand cycle with a commercial video game; the Armeo Spring — a companion to the Armeo Boom; and several Nintendo Wii systems. “Technology is very important in rehabilitation. Having a therapist move a patient’s arm repeatedly works, but not nearly as well as having the patient move his own arm while it is supported by a robot and while he is playing a game,” says Dr. Boninger. “Computer games also provide quick feedback and measure improvement, which adds to the sense of accomplishment.”
Virtual Therapy at Home The Nintendo Wii can be a useful tool for patients as they maintain their physical rehabilitation program at home. It’s relatively inexpensive, and many of the games incorporate the repetitive motion required in ongoing therapeutic exercises. “We can tell patients to do an exercise 500 times in the next week,” said Dr. Boninger. “But many people just won’t do it. Tell them to play Wii Tennis and they’ll do it and have fun.”
Dr. Michael Boninger shows how the Armeo Boom’s games and simulated tasks allow rehab patients to work hard and have fun.
1-800-533-UPMC
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A Pioneering Force in Maternal-Fetal Medicine
A New Era of Treatment for High-Risk Pregnancies Having a baby is one of the most natural things in the world, but it’s not risk free. For some women and their unborn children, the risks can be especially great, with potential for the development of life-threatening complications. Transforming their treatment and medical outlook is the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. The program has long been recognized as a leader in MFM, an obstetric subspecialty focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of expectant mothers and their fetuses who may be at high risk before, during, and after pregnancy. Many conditions can potentially put women at higher risk during pregnancy, including: • Preterm labor • Becoming pregnant after age 35 • Multiple birth pregnancies (twins or triplets) • Family history of birth defects or genetic disorders • Medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid or kidney diseases, and pre-eclampsia
The goal is to give women and their families the information they need to make informed decisions about their pregnancies. The center then provides critical counseling and planning support, and state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical services. Magee’s close partnership with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC also links newborns with congenital abnormalities to neonatologists, pediatric surgeons, and other specialists for ongoing care after birth. “Thanks to the tremendous technological advancements in MFM in recent years, we get to know an unborn child inside and out during a high-risk pregnancy — from his or her chromosomal makeup to cardiac anatomy. We’re prepared to quickly address any health care needs immediately after birth — or even in utero if needed, ” says Dr. Emery. “Just as importantly, we’re also able to ensure that the mother’s continuing health needs are met.”
Typically, an obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife will refer a woman to Magee’s MFM team for initial evaluation. However, women can contact Magee directly at 412-641-3382. Learn more about Magee’s Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and its Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center at www.UPMC.com/Magee.
Did You Know? Patients at the Magee Center for Reproductive Endocrinology-North, located at the Womancare Center of UPMC Horizon in Hermitage, now can be ‘seen’ by Hyagriv Simhan, MD, maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Magee-Women’s Hospital through the hospital’s telemedicine system. Referred to this service by their ob-gyn, women can consult with Dr. Simhan via state-of-the-art videoconferencing technology — without leaving the Hermitage facility. For more information, call 412- 641-6361.
Working Together for Mother and Child “Many MFM programs nationwide are available only at children’s hospitals. At UPMC, our comprehensive program of caring for mother and fetus is offered through Magee,” explains Stephen P. Emery, MD, director of the division’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center. “The maternal component is central to our mission; it’s a natural extension of our hospital’s historic focus on women’s health.” The center’s MFM physicians are supported by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals with expertise in high-risk pregnancies, including anesthesiologists, geneticists, radiologists, and bioethicists. “We work together and apply our collective knowledge to find solutions for each patient’s needs,” says Dr. Emery.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
Advancing the Quality of Care Through Research Despite major medical advancements in recent years, the causes of many fetal complications remain a mystery. That’s why research is so critical to the efforts of Magee’s Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center. “Through our research, the quality of our care extends far beyond what patients see,” says Hyagriv Simhan, MD, chief of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and an experienced investigator at the Magee-Women’s Research Institute (MWRI). “Magee is recognized for its pioneering research and medical advancements in MFM,” adds Dr. Simhan. The first research center devoted exclusively to the health concerns of women and infants, the institute’s current MFM research initiatives include preterm birth, genetics, placental function, and pre-eclampsia.
Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening
Please visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians.
We are pleased to welcome the following new physicians to UPMC Horizon: Muhammad Arif, MD Pain Management
Pablo G. Giuseppucci, MD, FACS General Surgery
A graduate of Rawalpindi Medical College, Pakistan, Dr. Arif completed general surgery and physical medicine and rehabilitation residencies at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, N.Y., where he served as chief resident. He recently completed a pain medicine fellowship at UPMC, and is a member of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Management, the American Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and the American Medical Association.
Dr. Giuseppucci earned his medical degree from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and completed post-graduate training at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, and Dr. Ignacio Pirovano Hospital, Buenos Aires. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Dr. Arif sees patients in association with Tracy Neuendorf, DO, and Kate Paylo, DO, at the UPMC Horizon Pain Management Center, located at 2120 Likens Lane, Farrell, and 30 Conneaut Lake Road, Greenville. To schedule an appointment, please call the Farrell office at 724-983-7991 or the Greenville office at 724-589-0171.
Marlene Bednar, MD Neurology Dr. Bednar earned her medical degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara School of Medicine in Guadalajara, Mexico. She completed an internship and residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland and MetroHealth Medical Center, a fellowship in electromyography at University Hospitals of Cleveland, and a fellowship in epilepsy and clinical neurophysiology at Cleveland Clinic. She is board-certified in neurology and clinical neurophysiology. Her professional memberships include the American Academy of Neurology, the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, the American Pain Society, and the American Clinical Neurophysiology Society. Dr. Bednar sees patients in association with Michael Matthews, MD, at Horizon NeurologyUPMC, which has office locations at 428 S. Main St., Greenville, and the Womancare Center of UPMC Horizon, 875 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bednar, call 724-588-4370.
Mark Gardner, DO Orthopaedic Surgery A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Gardner recently completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at Humility of Mary Health Partners, Youngstown. Dr. Gardner sees patients in association with Jerome Bonier, DO, and Edward Uberti, DO, at 1599 North Hermitage Road, Hermitage; Greenville Medical Center–UPMC, 90 Shenango St., Greenville; and the UPMC Specialty Suite, 3121 Wilmington Road, New Castle. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gardner, call 1-800-287-5854.
Dr. Giuseppucci joins M. Lance Weaver, MD; Thomas Lheureau, MD; and James Valuska, MD, of Northern Area Surgical Associates–UPMC. He sees patients at Greenville Medical Center–UPMC, 90 Shenango St., Greenville, and the Womancare Center of UPMC Horizon, 875 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Giuseppucci, call 1-866-633-1075.
Natalia Moguillansky, MD Pulmonary Medicine Dr. Moguillansky recently completed a pulmonary medicine fellowship at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh. She earned her medical degree from the University of Buenos Aires School of Medicine, Argentina, and completed an internal medicine residency at Allegheny General. An associate member of the American College of Chest Physicians, Dr. Moguillansky is board-certified in internal medicine. She sees patients in association with James Marcin, DO, at Horizon Pulmonary Associates-UPMC, 1599 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Moguillansky, call 724-342-1530.
Sima Suler, MD Family Practice A graduate of the Medical School of Sarajevo in Bosnia, Dr. Suler completed a family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital, Johnstown. She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Pennsylvania Medical Society.
at UPMC Horizon Classes Lamaze Prenatal Class Lamaze Weekend Prenatal Class Lamaze Refresher Prenatal Class Breastfeeding Class Sibling Class Family and Friends Pediatric CPR Seniors for Safe Driving Silver & Fit Senior Exercise Meditation
Support Groups Bereavement Support Group Cancer Support Group (Greenville and Farrell) Empty Arms Support Group Lupus Support Group Mercer County Breast Cancer Support Group Mercer County Diabetes Support Group (Greenville and Farrell) Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Ostomy Support Group Parents of Murdered Children Support Group Pulmonary Hypertension Support Group Weight Loss Surgery Support Group (Greenville and Hermitage) Yellow Ribbon Support Group
For a complete list of events, including dates and times, visit the “Classes and Events” section at www.UPMC.com/Horizon.
Dr. Suler sees patients at Horizon Family Medicine– UPMC, 6 E. Shenango St., Sharpsville, in association with Jennifer Ciambotti, DO, Vincent Ciambotti, DO, Aaron Listopad, DO, and Adam Lucich, DO. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suler, call 724-962-3528.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Horizon
UPMC Horizon
Shenango Valley 2200 Memorial Drive Farrell, PA 16121
Greenville 110 N. Main St. Greenville, PA 16125
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
Follow UPMC on Facebook.
With 50 surgeons, 10 specialties, and two advanced surgical suites all in Mercer County, your surgical destination is here. UPMC Horizon has invested $6 million to offer you access to one of the most comprehensive surgical programs in the region, including two new minimally invasive suites. Our growing number of surgical specialties includes bariatric, breast, general, ophthalmic, orthopaedic, otolaryngologic, spine, thoracic, urologic, and vascular. In addition, UPMC Horizon provides vital services typically not found at stand-alone surgery centers, including advanced imaging services and 24-hour emergency care. From state-of-the-art technology to our surgical experts, UPMC Horizon delivers the world-class surgical care you deserve … right here in your community. For more information about surgical services at UPMC Horizon, or for referral to a physician, please call 1-800-533-UPMC or visit www.UPMC.com/Horizon.
bedford county news
Bureau of Forestry Announces Record Funding for Rural Firefighters Grants Help Volunteer Companies Battle Forest Fires in Bedford edford County fire departments will receive more than $16,000 of a record $666,553 awarded statewide to help Pennsylvania's rural communities guard against the threat of fires in forests and other undeveloped areas, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary John Quigley announced. "These funds will be awarded to 172 volunteer fire companies serving rural areas and communities where forest and brush fires are common," Quigley said. "One only has to look back to this past spring—when dry, windy conditions spawned smaller fires in every county and several larger forest fires—to appreciate the value of these well-equipped and highly trained men and women." Bedford Fire Department No. 1 Inc., in Bedford will receive $3,275; Breezewood Volunteer Fire Co. in Breezewood will receive $6,812; Everett Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 Inc., in Everett will receive $3,100; and Saxton Volunteer Fire Co. in Saxton will receive $2,875. Local firefighting forces in rural areas or communities with fewer than 10,000 residents qualify for the aid. Last year, the grant program awarded $604,710 to 162 fire companies across the state. "The readiness of these volunteers is demonstrated even further every spring when they answer assistance calls coming from Western states," Quigley said. "These federal grants allow firefighters from smaller companies to concentrate more on public safety and training rather than having to concern themselves with fundraising and fiscal constraints." Grant recipients were named following review of fire company applications that met a May 2010 deadline. Grants and other assistance are provided through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Bureau of Forestry, with funding supplied by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service through the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978. The key objective is to better equip and train volunteers to save lives and protect property in unprotected or inadequately protected rural
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areas. Grant recipients are selected based on vulnerability and adequacy of existing fire protection. In reviewing applications, the bureau placed priority on applications seeking funds for projects that included purchasing wildfiresuppression equipment and protective clothing. Grants were also awarded for mobile or portable radios, dry hydrant installations, wildfire prevention and mitigation, wildfire fighting training, and to convert and maintain
federal excess vehicles the bureau receives and uses for fire suppression. Grants for any project during a fiscal year cannot exceed 50 percent of the actual expenditures. The maximum grant awarded was $7,500. Aid is granted on a cost-share basis, with recipients supplying matching funds. The bureau will begin accepting 2011 applications next spring.
27 Bedford County Citizens Inducted into PA Voter Hall of Fame he Pennsylvania Department of State today inducted 27 Bedford County residents into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame. "The strength of our nation is based upon the right of each citizen to vote," Department of State Executive Deputy Secretary Tom Weaver said. "Today we salute those who have steadfastly cast their ballots and reaffirmed the value of our democratic process. We are grateful for their lifelong commitment to democracy, and we proudly induct them into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame." The new inductees will have their names added to a book in the Pennsylvania Voter Exhibit and Voter Hall of Fame, located at the Department of State in Harrisburg. The permanent exhibit, which documents the state's political heritage, was established to acknowledge Pennsylvanians who have voted in every November election for at least 50 consecutive years. There are now almost 15,000 individuals listed in the Voter Hall of Fame. Voter Hall of Fame applications may be obtained from county boards of election or downloaded from the Department of State website at www.dos.state.pa.us. A searchable database of Hall of Fame honorees is available online at the same website. Click on "Voting and Elections" and then "Voter Hall of Fame" on the left navigation bar. "For 50 years, the Bedford County residents we are recognizing today have exercised their right to vote as citizens of Pennsylvania," Weaver said. "I encourage
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everyone to follow their example by registering to vote and by preparing for election day by visiting the Department of State's voter education website, www.VotesPA.com, and casting a ballot in every election." The following Bedford residents were inducted for 2010: Allison, Helen Alum Bank Baker, Esther S Woodbury Bingham, Ella H Bedford Coolbaugh, Betty R Schellsburg Coolbaugh, John E Schellsburg Dawson, Curtis E Buffalo Mills Dawson, Virginia J Buffalo Mills Dearment, Donald W Bedford Deike, B Joyce Breezewood Foor, John A Everett Furry, Fay A New Enterprise Harshberger, Roy H Bedford Hershberger, Thomas F Bedford Keifer, Betty Bedford Keifer, James Bedford Leibfreid, Donna W Alum Bank Markwood, Ronald Bedford Perce, Legrand W Bedford Putt, Alfred J Saxton Putt, Beverley Saxton Rinard, Marion Everett Shaffer, Betty Lee Bedford Wakefoose, Donald E Bedford Wakefoose, Mary G Bedford Way, Vaughn E Fishertown Weaver, Donald E Saxton Weaver, Jack B Saxton
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Older Adults in Bedford County A by Josh Wetmore
survey conducted by the Investor Protection Trust in May 2010 revealed that over 7.3 million senior citizens in the U.S. have “been taken advantage of financially in terms of an inappropriate investment, unreasonably high fees for financial services, or outright fraud.” That equates to about one in five senior citizens who have been scammed. Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Pennsylvania executive counsel, said that fraud against senior citizens can come in just about any form. Some of the more popular scams include lottery scams, sweepstake scams, email scams, charity scams, and even jury duty scams. “Caution and moving slowly are paramount in any of these situations. And not allowing yourself to be pressured into giving either personal information or any amount of money without doing your own personal due diligence or homework on the issue,” Bach said about how to generally avoid scams. Here are some other tips Bach gives to help senior citizens better avoid scams and fraud:
22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Don’t give money to a charity over the phone. Ask them to mail you something. This gives time to research the charity. Chances are, if the charity is just a scam they won’t send you anything anyway.
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than one and someone might recognize a red flag that you didn’t see.
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Sign up for both the state and national ‘do not call’ lists. These will weed out most legitimate solicitors so if a soliciting call gets through, there is already a warning sign.
When dealing with a financial planner or retirement advisor, make sure that both they and what they are selling are Remember the adage “If it sounds too registered with the state of Pennsylvania. good to be true, it probably is.” To check on the registration and history of a salesperson, financial plan, or product call either the Pennsylvania Insurance Commission at 1.877.881.6388 or the Pennsylvania Securities Commission at 1.800.600.0007.
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Always be wary of any letter, email, or phone call that requires an immediate or quick response. If there isn’t enough time to carefully consider a proposition before committing to it, there is probably a reason.
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Discuss what you are thinking of doing with a trusted friend or family member before making any final decisions. Two heads are better |
Bedford County
Retirement;
it’s a stage of life
that many people look forward to. It’s a chance to relax, and finally accomplish lifelong goals. It can also be an opportunity to make up for lost time with family and friends. For many, however, retirement can mean having so much time with so little to do, and often no longer having a job can lead to no longer have a sense of accomplishment or self worth. There is a solution to the problem though. Volunteering can not only give retired senior citizens a new sense of purpose but it can also help the community, the economy, and the future of the country. “There is just talk about, as the economy continues to be on a bit of a downslide, how important volunteers are,” said Mary Bach, a member of AARP’s Pennsylvania executive counsel. “Lots of older consumers have really wonderful skills and backgrounds that can be of benefit.” Volunteer opportunities for senior citizens in Bedford County can range from helping deliver mail at a hospital to working with the Bedford County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). “Volunteering makes people feel good, but it not only is self serving to that degree that you’re happy about doing something
that you enjoy personally, but the beneficiaries of that volunteerism gain so much,” Bach, a senior citizen herself, said. Some other ways for senior citizens to get involved are through senior citizen organizations such as AARP and The Senior Source. Many local libraries also offer volunteer positions. AARP’s “Create the Good” program is focused on helping senior citizens find volunteer opportunities that will fit their schedule, meet their personal interests, and help their community. To get involved with “Create the Good,” go to www.createthegood.org or call 1.800.556.0242.
Senior Agencies
Bedford Senior Center 203 South Richard Street Bedford, PA 15522 814.623.5140 Monday to Friday Breezewood Senior Citizens 150 Municipal Road Breezewood, PA 15533 814.735.4418 Wednesdays Manns Choice Senior Citizens PO Box 23 Buffalo Mills, PA 15534 814.623.5100 Wednesdays Chaneysville Senior Center 3932 Chaneysville Road Clearville, PA 15535 814.784.3215 Wednesday to Friday Everett Happy Senior Citizens Activity Center 101 West Main Street Everett, PA 15537 814.652.5621 Monday to Friday
Hopewell Senior Center 305 Mifflin Street P.O. Box 12 Hopewell, PA 16650 814.928.5111 Monday to Friday Hyndman Senior Center 164 Market Street Hyndman, PA 15545 814.842.6675 Monday to Friday
Broad Top Senior Center 707 9th Street Saxton, PA 16678 814.635.3122 Monday to Friday Northern Bedford Senior Citizens 4100 Woodbury Pike P.O. Box 147 Woodbury, PA 16695 814.766.3712 Wednesdays
Transportation The Area Agency on Aging operates the shared-ride program and this demand/response transit program transports persons with a wide range of needs, such as medical and social service appointments, shopping. There is a small co-pay for this service. Transportation to the senior centers is provided for free. General public pay full fare fees for transportation services.
Calls are to be made in advance and transportation is on a first call first serve basis. Appointments should be made at least 24 hours in advance. The telephone numbers are: Huntingdon County 814.643.5700 or 800.999.8364 Fulton County 717.485.4899 or 800.999.0748 Bedford County 814.623.9484 or 800.333.9004 Saxton Area 814.635.3653 or 800.999.0748
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
BEDFORD COUNTY MUNICIPALITIES King Township 634 S. Imler Valley Rd. Osterburg, PA 16667-9264 814.276.3235 Fax: 814.276.0022 jclaycomb16@hotmail.com Liberty Township 1400 Wall Street, Saxton, PA 16678 814.635.3513 libertytwp@verizon.net Lincoln Township 2554 Lovely Road, Alum Bank, PA 15521 814.276.3452
For more information visit: Bedford County Township Officials Association Bedford Borough Beverly Fisher, Sec 244 W. Penn Street, Bedford, PA 15522 814.623.8192 Bedford Township 1037 Shed Road, Bedford, PA 15522 814.623.8296 bedfordtwp@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/bedfordtwp Bloomfield Township Lafayette Road, Bakers Summit, PA 16614 814.224.5367 or 224.5709 bloomtwp@atlanticbbn.net
Londonderry Township 4303 Hyndman Road, Hyndman, PA 15545 814.842.6069 Fax: 814.842.6800
Everett Borough Eileen Reyan, Sec 100 Mechanic Street, Everett, PA 15537 814.652.9202 everettpa@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/everettboro/
Mann Township 1410 Mountain Road, Artemas, PA 17211 814.784.5416 Fax: 814.784.5267 manntwp@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/manntwp
Harrison Township 4747 Milligans Cove Rd. Manns Choice, PA 15550 814.623.5380 harrisontwp@pennswoods.net
Manns Choice Borough PO Box 13, Manns Choice, PA 15550 814.623.7662
Hopewell Borough PO Box 160, Hopewell PA 16650 814.635.3513
Broadtop Township 187 Municipal Road, Defiance, PA 16633 814.928.5253
Hopewell Township 2759 Raystown Road, Hopewell, PA 16650 814.652.5743 hopewell555@embarqmail.com http://hopewelltownship.org/
Coaldale Borough Judy Wright, Pres Home: 814.928.5102 Melissa Wright, Sec P.O. Box 156, Six Mile Run, PA 16679 Colerain Township 3017 Centennial Road, Bedford, PA 15522 814.847.2739 Cumberland Valley Township 1030 Dark Hollow Road, Bedford, PA 15522 814.356.3577 or 356.3281 East Providence Township 174 Municipal Road, Breezewood, PA 15533 814.735.2264 e_provtwp@frontiernet.net
24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
East St. Clair Township 1445 Quaker Valley Road, New Paris, PA 15554-8523 814.839.4947 eastclairtwp09@embarqmail.com
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Monroe Township 247 Rock Hill Church Road, Clearville, PA 15535 814.784.3168 monroetwp@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/monroetwp Napier Township 1708 Market Street, Schellsburg, PA 15559 814.733.4770 Fax: 814.733.2033 napier@embarqmail.com
Hyndman Borough Sharon Shaffer, Sec 213 Waters Street, Hyndman, PA 15545 814.842.3191
New Paris Borough PO Box 408, New Paris, PA 15554 Home: 814.839.0150
Juniata Township 397 Buena Road, Manns Choice, PA 15550 814.733.4437 juniatatownship@embarqmail.com
Pavia Township 109 Ickes Road, Imler, PA 16655 814.276.3451 Fax: 814.276.0032 paviatownship@embarqmail.com
Kimmel Township 117 Walter Hollow Road, Queen PA 16670 814.239.8221 kimmeltwp@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/KimmelTwp/
Pleasantville Borough Cindy Byers, Sec PO Box 147 Alum Bank, PA 15521 Home: 814.624.2006
Bedford County
Rainsburg Borough Wayne Koontz, Sec 3221 Main Road, Bedford, PA 15522 Home: 814.847.2853
STATE PARKS IN BEDFORD COUNTY
Saxton Borough 707 9th Street, Saxton, PA 16678 814.635.2363 Schellsburg Borough Dorothy Wolfhope, Sec 2199 Cortland Road, Schellsburg, PA 15559 814.733.2809 St. Clairsville Borough Cindy Crissman, Sec P.O. Box 289, Osterburg, PA 16667 814.276.3696 Snake Spring Township 373 Pennknoll Road, Everett, PA 15537 814.623.1976 Fax: 814.623.1976 snakespringtwp@embarqmail.com Southampton Township 5735 Chaneysville Road, Clearville, PA 15535 814.784.3413 southampton@embarqmail.com http://bedford.pacounties.org/ southamptontwp South Woodbury Township 125 North Road, New Enterprise, PA 16664 814.766.2900 Fax: 814.766.2444 swtbc@embarqmail.com southwoodburytownship@embarqspace.com West Providence Township 83 East Fifth Avenue, Everett, PA 15537 814.652.5943 Fax: 814.652.5711 wpt2006@embarqmail.com West St. Clair Township Chestnut Ridge Ambulance Bldg, 4037 Quaker Valley Rd. Alum Bank, PA 15521 814.839.2375 Fax: 814.839.4490 Woodbury Borough Barbara Wilt, Sec 201 State Street, Woodbury, PA 16695 814.943.5215 Woodbury Township P.O. Box 280, Woodbury, PA 16695 814.766.3200 Fax: 814.766.0098
BLUE KNOB STATE PARK 124 Park Road Imler, PA 16655-9207 814.276.3576 This is our "Big Mountain" park. This year-round wilderness adventure consists of over 5,600 acres of woodland. An extensive hiking trail system offers 17 miles of trails through changing timber types, across cool streams and occasionally passing by pioneer homesteads that are slowly yielding to the forces of nature.
SHAWNEE STATE PARK 132 State Park Road Schellsburg, PA 15559 814.733.4218 Shawnee is our "Lake Park". Located along Route 30 near Schellsburg, Shawnee consists of 3,983 acres with a 451 acre lake. Picnic tables and fire rings are available. Non-powered and electric boats are permitted with a permit or registration. Rentals available. A 12 mile hiking / biking system is also suitable for cross country skiing.
WARRIORS PATH STATE PARK 814.658.3847 This small park (334 acres) is located 2 miles south of Saxton (near the northeastern tip of Bedford County). This finger of land is bounded on 3 sides by the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River. This is a good area for canoeing/kayaking or perhaps a picnic. No overnight camping available at this time, however, attempts are being made to open the park to camping in the future. Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 25
he first public libraries in Bedford county were started by volunteers in Bedford and Everett during the 1920s to provide residents of those communities with access to books. The Bedford County Library began in 1944 to bring library services to areas outside these communities – at first from the trunk of a car, later through a dedicated bookmobile. Today the county has four community libraries and a boo kmobile under the umbrella of the Bedford County Library System, which was formed in 1982 to coordinate library services. Libraries in Bedford, Everett, Hyndman, and Saxton serve the county’s nearly 50,000 residents with combined collections totaling more than 100,000 titles – books, audio tapes, DVDs, magazines, and newspapers. In addition, the libraries are part of Access Pennsylvania, which allows patrons to request titles from member libraries throughout the state and are part of Access PA’s Power Library, providing patrons with access to hundreds of online periodicals and other resources.
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BEDFORD COUNTY LIBRARY 240 South Wood Street Bedford, PA 15522 814.623.5010 www.bedfordcountylibrary.com MONDAY 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. TUESDAY 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. THURSDAY 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. FRIDAY 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. SATURDAY 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. SUNDAY closed
EVERETT FREE LIBRARY 137 East Main Street Everett, PA 15537 814.652.5922 www.everettlibrary.org MONDAY 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. TUESDAY 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. THURSDAY 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. FRIDAY 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. SATURDAY 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. SUNDAY closed SAXTON COMMUNITY LIBRARY 315 Front Street Saxton, PA 16678 814.635.3533 www.saxtonlibrary.org MONDAY 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. TUESDAY 2:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. THURSDAY 2:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. FRIDAY closed SATURDAY 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. SUNDAY closed HYNDMAN-LONDONDERRY PUBLIC LIBRARY 161 Clarence Street Hyndman, PA 15545 814.842.3782 www.hyndmanlibrary.org MONDAY 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. TUESDAY 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. THURSDAY 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. FRIDAY 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. SATURDAY closed SUNDAY closed
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Bedford County
F A L L
2 0 1 0
Back to School Jokes Adopt a Pet: T-Bone Q: What's the worst thing you're likely to find in the school cafeteria? A: The food! Q: Why did nose not want to go to school? A: He was tired of getting picked on! Q: How do you get straight A's? A: By using a ruler! Q: What did the pen say to the pencil? A: "So, what's your point?" Q: What did you learn in school today? A: "Not enough, I have to go back tomorrow!"
When you meet T-Bone, he will offer you a Beagle smile and shyly, by surely, try to climb into your lap. This gentle fellow is brimming with affection and simply needs someone to give it to. A couple months ago, TBone probably felt like the luckiest, most beloved dog in the world. But then, sadly, his owner passed away. T-Bone came to Animal Friends, 10 years old and hoping to find a second chance and a fresh start. T-Bone is calm, lovable, and simply wants to share your company. He is curious and friendly around other dogs and
enjoys peaceful rides in the car. He is crate trained and always polite. But most of all, T-Bone is lovable. He adores people and constantly wants to cuddle. While it’s obvious that he loves all women, we’ve noticed that he is particularly drawn to men. Perhaps they remind him of his Dad, who he misses so much. If you are looking for a companion who’s more interested in cuddling and relaxing than playing, T-Bone could be the one for you. T-Bone is currently in foster care. If you can help a loving and deserving dog, call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002.
on the go...
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 27
R G R O U N D Rules for Being Home Alone L E S
you and your mom or dad have decided you're mature enough to take care of yourself after school. Every weekday, you'll come home, let yourself in, and then what? Good question! This is why you'll need to set up some rules - before you're home alone.
Some families put up a list of rules where everyone can see them, like on the refrigerator door. Other families write out a contract and have each member sign it, saying they agree to the rules. Or a family might just
go over the rules out loud. But whatever method you use, there are a lot of questions to talk about, like:
✪ Are you allowed to watch TV, DVDs, videos, or play computer games? If so, which ones and for how long?
Find each of these words in this puzzle.
Back to School!
✪ Should you call mom or dad as soon as you get home?
✪ Should homework be done first, even before chores? ✪ Can friends come over? If so, how many? ✪ What can you eat if you want a snack? ✪ Can you go outside, and if so, where? ✪ Which appliances can be used? (microwave, computer, etc.) ✪ Which chores need to be done and by when? ✪ Should your parent call home just before leaving work each day? For example, would it help to have a headsup in time to finish any last-minute chores before they arrive?
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Bedford County
Help kids eat healthy by letting them help you in the kitchen
For more information about pears, including family friendly recipes, tips for kids, and even online games featuring fresh USA Pears grown in Oregon and Washington,
Pear Kabobs With Strawberry Dipping Sauce
visit www.usapears.org.
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
Do you know someone who is serving in the armed forces from the Bedford County area? We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them IN Bedford County Magazine. Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com
Help us recognize these fine men and women! 30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Bedford County
The Bedford County Chamber
Round Up! k & Tina Russell Angie Horton, Donna Bric
pproximately 50 local and regional vendors attended the annual Business to Business Expo sponsored by the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce Wednesday September 22, 2010 at Heartland Hall. Products and services were showcased in a western theme. With more than 50 exhibitors, the Expo offered businesses the chance to meet and greet business representatives from Bedford County and the surrounding region. The goal was to give Bedford County businesses the opportunity to BUY LOCAL! Vendors also had the opportunity to compete by displaying their products and services in a western theme. Congratulations to this year's winning booths: Show Stopper: Fisher's/Whysong's Pharmacy
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Most Creative Use of Theme: UPMC Bedford Memorial & Health Plan Best New Exhibitor: Bad Boyz Bistro
Sonya Simons, Tom Mishler, Carissa Shippey, Jo Logue, Peggy Zembower & Jane Barnes
Bad Boyz Bist ro Rachel Martin & Annette Ca lhoun
Beth Latterner, Ted Chwatek
Donna Pennel, Johann a Pratt & Shaun Styer Shayne Rininger, Amos Glass, Brittany Kidd, Katie Ritchey & Leslie Wolford
For more information on the Expo or to be part of planning next year's event, call Jami Leavell at 814.623.2233 or e-mail: jami@bedfordcountychamber.org
Misty Nicodemus
Sue Gabriel, Tina Imes
Sean Forney
Bedford County | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
Automated Hell A
By Pamela Palongue
s a Catholic, I firmly believe that if you are forced to deal with an automated operator for more than 10 minutes, it should
Automated voices seem to have pervaded every area of our lives. Recently I was taken aback when I called my doctor’s office for lab results after my yearly check-up and was told to call another number where an automated operator coldly gave me the lab numbers with no explanation of what they meant. It is entirely possible that I have Feldspar Disease or cataracts because I don’t have a clue. What’s next, being informed you have a serious disease via an automated operator? For diabetes, press 1. For an insulin prescription, press 2. To freak out that you have diabetes, press 3. For more information on managing your diabetes, try the internet, watch Oprah, ask your next door neighbor, the guy on the bus or just anyone so we don’t have to talk to you. We hate people. Thank you for calling. Goodbye. What has happened to us? Why do we hate talking to each other? Someone, somewhere has to make a stand by taking that first phone call. What if everyone in the entire nation just agreed to start answering their phones tomorrow? When that phone rings, just pick it up and bravely say, “Hello.” Sure the other person may hang up on us or even scream at us, but be strong. They can’t reach through that phone line and wring your neck no matter how threatening they sound. And the world will be a better place that you stood up to that phone and showed it who’s boss. And while we’re on the subject of improving our world, can’t we all just agree to start the workday at 10 a.m? Would anyone really mind getting a couple of extra hours sleep every morning? We could all have ice cream for breakfast. I was just thinking…
automatically be credited towards time in purgatory. And if you can accomplish this without throwing the phone against the wall, you should at least be considered for canonization. The strange thing is, if I am calling to subscribe to their services or upgrade my account, there are 346 cheerful operators eagerly standing by to take my call. But if I have a problem with billing, a technical question or need repairs I hear, “Please hold and the next available representative will be with you shortly,” while I wait for one of the three customer service agents in North America to answer my question. Next I am asked to enter my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code, only to have Phyllis eventually answer my call and ask for my account number, the last four digits of my social security number and my zip code. Do they do that just to keep you busy? I’m not sure. Then as further protection, I am asked for my mother’s maiden name, my aunt’s street address and the exact measurement of my third molar. All of this precaution is in case there are evil forces who might want to find out if I have call waiting or how many channels I receive. But while I wait for Phyllis I am treated to 15th century Bulgarian chamber music, interrupted every 20 seconds by a voice saying, “Did you know that you can check your account online at www.Don’tBotherUs.com?” Strangely, I would rather just listen to the Bulgarian chamber music without the interruptions. Or just stick forks into my eyes repeatedly. And instead of an annoying woman’s voice, can’t I at least listen to Gerard Butler’s sexy Scottish accent? Or perhaps Antonio Banderas’ liquid Latino purr? Why must this annoying woman answer the phone no matter where I call? And how much is she getting paid? Is it more or less than $40,000 a year? Could I perhaps be the new automated woman voice? Do I have what it takes? Why don’t tornadoes happen in the winter? Could ice cream be considered a breakfast food? It does have milk in it… These are the things that I think about while I am on the phone waiting…
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Bedford County
Dogs Day of FUN esponsible Dog Ownership Day (RDOD) was held Saturday, September 25th at Snake Spring Township Community Park. Pet owners were able to bring their leashed dogs for fun, socialization, demonstrations, and educational programs. Owners enjoyed a number of activities to enhance their relationships with their canines or got to learn how to prepare their homes for a new dog.
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Events for the day included agility, obedience and carting demonstrations, children’s activities and contests, pet/owner look-a-like and silliest pet trick contests, pet photos, and opportunities to meet various breeds of dogs and businesses providing services to pets and owners. A chicken barbeque, and other food and refreshments were available for a donation to the Bedford County Humane Society. For more information about the Bedford County Humane Society, call 814.623.8968.
Baldwin Whitehall | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com
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