SPRING 2012
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Clark Renovations Gets The Job Done!
SPRING 2012
INSIDE
COMMUN ITY MAG AZIN E
IN Bethel Park is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Bethel Park 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.
IN Bethel Park | SPRING 2012 |
Clark
Reno Gets vations The Job Don e!
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COMMUNITY INTEREST
Pressley Ridge - Helping Your Autistic Child to Reach Full Potential at School ........................... | 14 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................................... | 25 ON THE COVER
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The professionals of Clark Renovations, Inc. Back Row: Lou, Material Coordinator; Dave, Craftsman; Jesse, Craftsman; Bruce, Senior Craftsman. Front Row: Chris, Senior Craftsman; Charlie, Crew Leader; Bruce, Craftsman SPRING 2012
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Special Value Coupons .................... | 55 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Dr. Daniel Rairigh Sedation Dentistry .................................... | 42 Dr. Leslie Myers-Battisti
Let’s Get Physical What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
What’s Inside page 2
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Fit at Any Age Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
page 6 page 7 © 2012 UPMC
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
page 3 page 4
page 5
Brightening Lives With Light A Walk to Remember
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A Lasting Legacy of Caring
The Bill Flinn Agency Don’t Drive Distracted .............................. | 47 Dan Martin
FEATURES
Clark Renovations Inc. and Kohler - Home For Life ...
Swift Audiology & Hearing Aid Services Addresses Your Thoughts About Hearing Loss and Why You Should Seek Hearing Help ..... | 45
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Ameriprise Financial
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Denise Cavenaugh
Meet the New Bethel Park Superintendent Nancy Aloi Rose ....................................................................
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White Christmas ...................................................................
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See You in 50 Years! .............................................................
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Chris Nolin Combines Service and Sisterhood to Give Back to Her Alma Mater ...........................................
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Providing Care for Those Who Cannot Care for Themselves ................................. | 50
Bob & Lori Santo Preventing Summer Learning Losses During Early Childhood ............................. | 53 SPOTLIGHTS
Bethel Park Boys’ Soccer Doing Work - On and Off the Field .................................................................................
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Young Poets - Creative Thoughts from Some Bethel Students ...................................................................
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BP Student and Athletic News ..........................................
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Blankets Made With Love ....................................................
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Stephans, Kun & Co. P.C. ............... | 43 South Hills ENT .................................. | 51
PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR
Marybeth Jeffries m.jeffries@icmags.com
elcome to the spring issue of Bethel Park magazine. Hopefully, we are all enjoying the lengthening days as we forge into summer. While spring usually brings more rain to the region than we normally get throughout the rest of the year, I’m glad we’ve had a few days of nice weather to get outside and remember what the snow covered up. We’ve grown once again over the winter, and have shifted some staff around to accommodate that growth. I want to point this out to you because you, the readers, give us many of the great story ideas that you see featured in these pages, and I want you to have the right point of contact so that your story can be heard. The editor for the South and West Regions is Mark Berton (mark@ incommunitymagazines.com). Please forward your good news to Mark, and he’ll make sure it finds a place in the magazine. If you’re not sure whether you have a good story, give Mark a call at 724.942.0940 and ask! While our editors have re-aligned into better-organized zones, we still want everything in those zones to be 100 percent local to you. We also appreciate your feedback (good and bad) to let us know where we missed the mark and where we hit it out of the park. Lastly, it’s not too so on to start thinking about the rest of the year! I know we just got through the holidays, and are thawing out, but since we’re quarterly, we’re already looking ahead to fall and beyond. So if you have events planned and would like to promote them, call or email Mark. If you have an event coming up earlier, let us know so we can send our photographers and document the occasion! Here’s hoping that the st art to your year has been a good one!
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REGIONAL EDITORS
Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com NORTH ZONE COORDINATOR
Pamela Palongue p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUNICIPAL CONTENT COORDINATOR
Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR
Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
WRITERS
Jonathan Barnes Heather Holtschlage Kelly Lotter Leigh Lyons
Dana McGrath Joann Naser Gina Salinger Judith Schardt
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Wayne Dollard, Publisher
Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer
Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS
hile Community Magazines is a non-partisan publication, we don’t live in a vacuum. This year is a presidential election year, and striving to keep readers engaged and active in the community is part of our mission statement. We’re not here to endorse anyone, but we are here to remind you that voting is a hard-earned right that we have as Americans. However, many people pass on that right, which is a s hame. If you view your vote as insignificant, then you are not only forfeiting your right to be counted, but also your right to be heard. Voting isn’t just about numbers, it’s about opinions as well. Your vote lends your voice to a chorus that decides who should be deciding our foreign and domestic policies, budgeting for specific social programs and who sends our young people into conflicts around the globe. These are critical issues that everyday people have to live with. If your candidate loses, you didn’t lose. The margin of loss sends a strong message to the victor as to whether people agree with their views, or found them to be less appealing. To be part of that process is something that those before us fought for through marches, protests and even death. To sit it out casts aspersions on their efforts and memory. We may not wake up happy on Nov. 7, but we should all be happy that we participated on Nov. 6. The deadline for registering to vote is 30 days prior to the next primary or general election. For more information, go to www.alleghenycounty.us/elect/registration.aspx.
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See you at the polls!
Mark Berton, Editor 4
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Bethel Park
Derek Bayer Tom Poljak
Tamara Myers
ADVERTISING SALES
Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graf Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri Aimee Nicolia
Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard
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 2012. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Rd. McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www. incommunitymagazines.com
Summer content deadline: 4/9/2012 Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
Letter to the editor My name is Billie Schroeder, I am a Bethel Park resident who has lived in Bethel Park over 34 years. Our three children all graduated from Bethel Park Senior High School. I am also a team member of “Lisa’s Crew” and we will be participating in the MS Walk on Sunday, April 29, 2012. Lisa is my daughter. Six years ago she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 32. The number of people living with MS increases every hour of every day. Today, there is no cure for MS, but we're fighting to change that. Lisa and I, along with family and friends are hosting our 5th annual “Vendor Party” on Sunday, April 15, 2012 at the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Co. Social Hall. We will have 20 - 30 vendors including Lia Sophia, Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Thirty-One Gifts, and many others. We also have a fantastic basket raffle, thanks to donations from our vendors and the very generous merchants in the surrounding areas. All proceeds go to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Last year we raised over $4,000 for MS but we would love to make it more than $5,000 this year! – Billie Schroeder, Lisa and “The Crew” “Shop Till You Drop” vendor party Various vendors: Lia Sophia • Tastefully Simple • Thirty-one Gifts • Pampered Chef • plus many more! To benefit Multiple Sclerosis Sunday, April 15,2012 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Co. Social Hall (next to Bethel Bakery) Free admission Basket raffle (donations from vendors & merchants) 50/50 raffle Refreshments Hosted by “Lisa’s Crew” MS Walk Team All proceeds benefit the MS Society. Questions: E-mail Billie at rschroedersr@yahoo.com, or call after 6 p.m.: 412.831.2473
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There are steps you can take to enable you to continue independent living with limited mobility or physical challenges. With some basic renovations, you can maintain independence and restore freedom. Aging in place incorporates user friendly products that look good but are also easy to maintain. Products must be easy to grip or grasp and easy to operate. Here are some ideas to consider.
Increase doorway widths to 32-36” inches to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs and don’t forget the door at the walk-in closet. You may need to reverse the swing of some doors or even change some to pocket doors. Change door knobs to the lever variety. Consider adding railings to hallways and both sides of the steps. Certainly add an electric chair to get you from floor to floor if this is the biggest drawback in staying in your home. Glue or tack down a wedge shaped piece of wood to function as a ramp over high door thresholds and rearrange furniture to allow for a turning radius for wheelchairs. Try to have 30” x 48” of clear floor space to maneuver a wheelchair. Definitely remove throw rugs before they live up to their name! Be sure to have working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers.
Remove the tub and install a 5’ walk-in shower with a seat and low or no thresholds. A tub can always be put back in once your house sells, but chances are the next buyer will love the large shower. Change the faucets (kitchen too) to lever style and “Rite Temp” to prevent scalding. Change taller shower faucets to a hand held with a spray; they are also great for cleaning. Put them on a bar to slide up for taller bathers or lower when needed. Don’t forget to add grab bars in the shower and toilet area too. Very popular are “comfort height” commodes; 18” high similar to a standard chair height but so much easier on the knees. Install a towel rack accessible to wheelchair users. Change the vanity to a pedestal or wall hung sink and the floor to non slip materials.
Purchase front control and front access appliances. New “drawer” appliances are easier to access and include dishwashers, refrigerators and freezers. Install a microwave on a shelf you can easily reach. Add some low towel racks. Install lower electric outlets and light switches to 48” and add some under cabinet lights for better visibility. In the refrigerator, put the most used items on the back of the door. Rearrange cabinets putting the most used items in the base cabinets. If you’re changing cabinets entirely – consider sliding doors and drop leaf shelving. Remove the cabinet under the kitchen sink so a wheelchair can roll right under and insulate the plumbing well to protect legs from hot pipes. A countertop’s height of 32” is recommended. Federal grants may be available for some renovations – check with the Dept. of Health & Human Services, HUD or the Dept. of Veteran Affairs.
keep you Let Give us a call at 412.833.7222 or stop in our showroom at 3180 Industrial Blvd. Bethel Park. You can also visit us online at www.clarkremodeling.com Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
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ust a few weeks into her position as superintendent of Bethel Park Schools, Nancy Aloi Rose has been busy with the district budget, contract negotiations, daily operation of the school district, and not to mention getting ready for the move into the new high school in a few days. IN Bethel Park caught up with her for an informal interview to get to know her a little bit beyond the highly impressive resume of accomplishments that led her to the top position in the BP School District.
When you were in school, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a teacher since I was four, when my oldest sister used to sit us down to play school on the front porch. I remember going to school and thinking whether I liked something a teacher did. I planned to remember that when I was a teacher and use it. My daughters did the same thing, and both of them are now teachers. Katie teaches first grade at Baldwin, and Carrie is teaching music in La Jolla, CA.
Do you have any role models or people you admire? Dr. Knight was definitely my mentor and a great role
model. We worked together previously at Bethlehem-Center School District and when he left there to move to East Allegheny, I took the position as principal of Independence Middle School. I encouraged him to apply when we began looking for a superintendent in 2005. The superintendency was not where I saw myself. Dr. Knight continually encouraged me and circumstances just led here. I am honored to be in this position. My career has unfolded with a synchronicity that must have been “meant to be.” I also admire my parents for their work ethic. My dad was a self-employed contractor who later worked at PennDOT, and my mother worked as a school custodian. They worked very hard to send three of their six children to college, so they were very strong role models in my life.
What are the best, and worst, aspects of your job as superintendent?
My job still entails teaching, just at a different level. Now I work with the grown-ups in the system. My favorite moments are when I get to be in the classrooms with the students. It centers me and reminds me why we do what we do. The worst part has to be calling snow delays or cancellations [laughing]. It seems you’re wrong no matter which decision you make. My first official day on the job was a potential bad weather day and I spent the whole night awake looking out the window and watching the weather. What is one thing you’d like to accomplish as superintendent?
My vision is to be able to offer learning opportunities for the 21st century with a continuum of educational options to provide what students need to take them to the next step in life. We’ve just started really moving on that Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
goal with the appointment of Mr. Lenosky as the Principal/Director of Cyber and Alternative Learning Options. It’s not just for the sake of providing cyber education; it’s to keep up with the curve of 21st century learners. The paradigm shift is so fast that we need to create a learning environment to prepare kids for a world that’s constantly changing. It’s not enough just to teach with traditional methods. We are looking to create self-sufficient learners, creative problem-solvers, and innovative thinkers. Our new high school was designed to promote that kind of collaborative education where students can apply their knowledge and perform what they’ve learned.
What do you see as a major challenge facing the district in the future?
Unfortunately, our biggest challenge right now is economic. The governor is pushing for schools to cut costs and the current state administration believes the way we’ve done things in the past is too expensive. We need to maintain the high level of education and mentorship of students while finding more economic ways to work within the confines of the rules and budgets. We never want to lose the most important piece of teaching and learning—the relationships between teachers and students that build motivation. We also value the arts and extracurricular activities, which are important to the development of the learner as a whole person. Our cyber education program will offer viable options with our own rigorous standards to meet the varying needs of students in our district. 10
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What do you do in your time off when you’re not running BPSD? I love to travel. I have been blessed to visit Japan, China, and Poland for educational trips that were experiences I will never forget. I have also been to several Caribbean islands. I also love music and books. While I have been to Italy, I would like to visit the region of Calabria because that’s where all of my grandparents were from.
What are your personal goals?
One of my goals is to finish my dissertation to earn my doctoral degree. I have been researching the nature of resiliency and the protective factors that allow some children to thrive in the face of adversity in the hopes that schools will learn to help other children to overcome obstacles in their lives. Nancy Aloi Rose will be the District’s 12th superintendent through June 30, 2015. “Her commitment to the Bethel Park School District is evident in her vision for moving the District forward to meet the needs of 21st century learners and is shared by the Board of School Directors. She is a respected educator and leader, and we are confident of her ability to lead this District,” said Donna Cook, Bethel Park School Board President.
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
Photos courtesy of Bethel Park School District
By Tracy Fedkoe
Nancy Aloi-Rose with Christopher Jack, his wife Laura, and daughter Ava in Hershey, PA
The initial process required both a parent’s and superintendent’s recommendation as well as several essays. Mr. Jack was notified that he was a semi-finalist in February of 2011 where he had a month to complete the second phase of applications that included another three essays to be written on topics such as “Why did you want to teach?” and “What is the biggest issue in education today?” Mr. Jack’s passion for teaching and dynamic personality shone through in his writing and he was selected as one of 12 finalists in May of last year. With great enthusiasm, Mr. Jack describes his teaching style as “academic rigor hidden with a creative approach.” He likes to vary the instruction and types of assignments students are asked to complete. “It’s hard to keep them motivated with only 42 minutes per day,” he said. In his English class, he allows the students to choose the type of project that best fits their learning style including iMovies, PowerPoint presentations, and other creative approaches combined with research, academic instruction, and use of the district’s online system Edline. Many students love his classes because he makes learning fun and can relate to the kids at that age. “He’s really animated. It’s like listening to a storyteller. I looked forward to going to class and it didn’t feel like work,” said Jocelyn Hyrb, now a junior who had Mr. Jack for tenth grade English. Part of the “fun” of tenth grade English is because of the unique curriculum created by Mr. Jack and fellow teacher Nicola Hipkins. They focused the curriculum around the epic tale of good vs. evil where they cover the classics and Greek mythology as well as pull in appropriate references from pop culture such as Batman to keep it interesting. They also developed the curriculum for the elective class Film as Literature and choose a variety of films that will appeal to the students. In addition to doing his best to make learning interesting, Mr. Jack serves as one of the four directors of the school musical, and was staging manager for last year’s presentation of White Christmas. “It is great to see
Inspired by his great grandmother who taught in a one-room school house, Bethel Park High School English Teacher Christopher Jack developed his passion for teaching at a young age when he set up a school room to teach his younger siblings. Now in his ninth year at Bethel Park, he was recently honored as one of 12 Finalists for the 2012 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year. He currently teaches tenth grade English, Senior Level English Composition, and an elective called Film as Literature. Accompanied by an entourage of administrators, fellow teachers, and supporters from Bethel Park, he attended the PA Department of Education’s ceremony on December 5 in Hershey, PA where the 12 finalists gathered to hear the announcement of the winner. “It was an honor to be in their company,” said Jack. The nearly year-long application process started with hundreds of nominations so it was definitely a tribute to be selected as a finalist. “I truly believe that many of our nation’s most passionate and innovative educators are working in Pennsylvania schools,” said Ron Tomalis, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education in a press release. “The teachers who have been chosen as finalists for Teacher of the Year are proof of that.” The National Teacher of the Year program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year program is co-sponsored by the PA Department of Education and the PA chapter of the National State Teacher of the Year, (NSTOY-PA), which was founded in 1995. Becoming a finalist is not just a “throw your name in a hat” kind of nomination. There’s a great deal of preparation and input required by the nominee. Mr. Jack was nominated by English Language Arts Department Facilitator Charles Youngs, who was also a finalist in 2009, so he knew what it took to make it that far and had the confidence in Jack to give it his all. “I selected Mr. Jack Supporters of Mr. Jack at the awards ceremony in Hershey, PA because of his clarity of instruction, his organization in (Left to right): Vicki Flotta, BPSD Director of Public Relations; Charles Youngs, delivering learning activities, his passion for teaching and BPHS English Teacher and 2009 PA Teacher of the Year Finalist; Acting Superintendent learning, and his compassion for his students. He’s a Nancy Aloi Rose; Christopher Jack; Jocelyn Hyrb; BPHS English Teacher Nicola Hipkins consummate professional,” said Youngs. and BPHS Principal Zeb Jansante 12
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the kids in that environment and it’s another learning experience for them,” said Jack, who was often in musicals as a student himself, as well as band and track. Mr. Jack is also a powder puff football coach, class advisor, and was co-sponsor for the PA Student Council Conference. The final phase of the application process required a video tape of a lesson interacting with students. He chose a tenth grade English class with many enthusiastic students, among them Jocelyn Hyrb, who he also worked with in the musical. At the ceremony in December, Mr. Jack chose Jocelyn to introduce him for his presentation to the other 11 finalists plus a large audience of educators, administrators, and supporters from across the state. “I didn’t know how big of a deal it was until I got there. I was honored that he chose me,” said Hyrb. In her introduction, she told the audience that Mr. Jack is a well respected teacher and friend to the students and makes learning fun. She also elaborated on his exemplary organizational skills and joked how he has a colored marker to coordinate with every single outfit he wears. “He was the liveliest person up there and all of the other teachers knew and liked him,” she said. For Jack, being a PA Teacher of the Year finalist is not over. He is now a member of NSTOY-PA and will present best practices next year at the awards ceremony, speak at workshops, and participate on education committees to spread the word about the important work being accomplished in classrooms all across the state. “This is a wonderful milestone in Mr. Jack’s career, an acknowledgement of his exemplary service and an encouragement to continue to give his talent to the profession in the years ahead,” said Youngs. In addition to his classroom teaching, activities at the high school, and NSTOY participation, Mr. Jack is considering pursuing his doctoral degree and loves spending as much time as possible with his first child, Ava, born in October 2011. “Right now, I love what I do. My passion is focused on the kids and what they learn throughout the year,” said Jack. Mr. Jack is one of four Bethel Park Teachers to reach the Semi-Finalist or Finalist level since 2008, including: William Penn Elementary School Fourth Grade Teacher Kathryn Kasten, Semi-Finalist for 2011; BPHS English Teacher Charles Youngs, 2009 Finalist; and retired William Penn Kindergarten Teacher and current School Board Director Cindy Buckley, 2008 Semi-Finalist. “I feel like I represent the majority of teachers here at Bethel Park because we all collaborate to improve learning. There are so many exceptional teachers here; I couldn’t have done it without [them],” stated Jack. Parents and community members can nominate a candidate for Teacher of the Year at www.pdesas.org/Instruction/TeacherOfTheYear. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
oming from a family of runners, Kelsey Metheny started doing 5K races around fourth or fifth grade. She kept on running and it led her to be the team captain for the Bethel Park track and cross country teams, with an exceptional record to boot. Just this year, she finished fourth at the California University Invitational, sixth at the Red, White, and Blue Classic, and ninth at the Central Catholic Invitational and Tri-State Coaches Championship. While her excellence in sports was a huge factor, the Extra Effort Award, sponsored by Allegheny General Hospital Sports Medicine, is also based on academic performance, leadership, and community service. “Kelsey Metheny is the all-around package,” said Scott Staranko, cross country coach for Bethel Park in his interview with KDKA. Kelsey has a 4.5 grade point average, is president of the National Honor Society, a member of the Teen Leadership Corps and volunteers 15 hours per month for organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Bethel’s Bounty, UNICEF, and Military Connections. She also helped organize a community-wide shoe drive that collected 800 pairs of shoes for local families. The whole school gathered for KDKA’s Bob Pompeani to p resent Kelsey with the award, and a check from Allegheny General Hospital Sports Medicine for $200 in Kelsey’s name to the Bethel Park Athletic Fund. “It was overwhelming and exciting and such an honor,” said Kelsey. Her whole family was present including her mom, younger brother Levi and her dad, Jeff Metheny, who is the Bethel Park High School Varsity Football Coach. Her father has always been self- motivated and stressed the importance of exercise which helped Kelsey discover her love for running. “We started out running together and moved up to local 5K races and now she’s so much faster than me,” said Metheny. On the cross country team, Kelsey also had great coaches and teammates to keep her motivated. The Bethel Park program cultivates a team atmosphere where achieving their personal best is v ery important to the students. Qualifying for the PIAA state championships was a huge goal for Kelsey in her senior year. Her hard work and dedication paid off and she earned 7th place overall in the WPIAL Championships, moving up in the ranks quite a bit from the previous year. Teammates Hillary Boxheimer and Amanda Ruschel also qualified for states. “It’s safe to say we are successful because we hav e each other. Having someone there to constantly push you makes all the difference,” she said. Kelsey finished in the 50s out of 300 or more of the best runners in PA, which is quite an accomplishment. Kelsey also participates in the longer distance events in track, so running is a three-season sport for her. “I have always loved to run. It really
clears your mind,” she said. She participates in the individual mile and 800 meter races as well as the 4 x 800m relay and medley relay, which rely more on teamwork than cross country. Kelsey was excited to reveal the news she had just accepted a scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh for running. “I never thought I could be a contender for a Division 1 school,” she said. Kelsey’s not the only one from Bethel who got a scholarship to Pitt for runnin g. Her good friend and teammate, Hillary Boxheimer will also be attending in the fall. “Hillary has always been a motivator for me because she used to beat me all the time. She’s a good friend and we’re very lucky to be able to stay together.” With a knack for math and science, Kelsey has applied for Engineering, but is undecided on a specific major. She’s taking a few AP classes this year and hopes to pass the test and receive credit for them. Even with college acceptance and states already under her belt, Kelsey still has a few goals for the remainder of her senior year. She’s training for indoor track now and will continue with outdoor in the spring and has a personal goal of maintaining straight As for her entire high school career. That’s the kind of “Extra Effort” the award was meant to recog nize.
(left to right) Dad Jeff Metheny, mom Cindy, and brother Levi with Kelsey and Bob Pompeani of KDKA at the awards assembly. Courtesy of BPSD.
By Tracy Fedkoe Kelsey finished 7th place at the 2011 WPIAL Championships. Courtesy of BP Cross Country Boosters.
Courtesy of BPSD
Amanda Ruschel, Kelsey Metheny, and Hillary Boxheimer after they finished running states. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
“WHITE CHRISTMAS” GOT BETHEL PARK IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
The cast of Bethel Park High School’s production of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.”
This year, the Bethel Park High School Music Department staged its annual musical in December, instead of the spring. Since it was a winter production, it was only fitting that “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” was selected. The show was staged Wednesday through Saturday, December 7 through 10 as the final musical in the “old” Bethel Park High School auditorium. This classic show tells the story of World War II Army veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who team up to become a top song-and-dance act after their Army days are over. Davis plays matchmaker and introduces Wallace to a pair of beautiful sisters (Betty and Judy) who also have a song-and-dance act. When Betty and Judy travel to a Vermont lodge to perform a Christmas show, Wallace and Davis follow, only to find their former commander, General Waverly, is the lodge’s owner. A series of romantic mix-ups ensue as the performers try to help the general. The show features the iconic movie songs “Sisters,” “Snow,” and “White Christmas,” as well as other well-known Berlin standards, including “Blue Skies” and “I Love a Piano.” The musical featured 109 students as actors, singers and dancers. Thirty-two student musicians were part of the pit orchestra, and 44 students comprised the tech staff for this production. This truly was a student-run production, as the students not only performed on stage and in the orchestra pit, but they also built and painted the scenery, ran the lights and sound, called the cues and moved the scenery. The show was double cast for the leads, allowing twice as many students to showcase their talents. Nick Pilotta and Zach Laufer alternated the role of Bob Wallace, and Dan Spaner and Tyler Cunningham played Phil Davis. For the women’s leads, Holly Bruggman and Joci Hyrb played Judy Haynes, and Lucy Sedor-Franzak and Andrea Groves played Judy’s sister, Betty. Stealing some scenes and causing most of the confusion was the very confused Martha Watson played by Madilyn Carothers. Bethel Park High School vocal music teacher Todd Kuczawa was the production director and the vocal director, and was assisted by Bethel Park High School English teacher Nicole Hipkins as choreographer and makeup director and Bethel Park High School instrumental music teacher Jonathan Derby as the orchestra director. Olivia Zeiler was the student stage director and Hannah Gloekl was the student stage manager. The dance captains were Samantha Vona, Emily Bair, Jennie Malone, Brittany Thomas and Krista Colorosa.
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Nick Pilotta as Bob Wallace and Lucy Sedor-Franzak as Betty Haynes.
The Dancers
“May your days be merry and bright, and may all your Christmases be white.�
Andrea Groves as Betty Haynes and Joci Hyrb as Judy Haynes.
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
! s r a e Y 0 5 n i ee You
By Tracy Fedkoe
S
Where will you be in 50 years? As Mayor Clifford Morton began the Time Capsule Dedication Ceremony on December 5, 2011, he asked all of the ten-year-olds to join him and started with that exact question. Their honesty and innocence came through in their responses that included “Retired, I guess” and “I hope to be famous.” Looking back, what will you remember about 2011? It was the year of the iPhone2 and Pl aystation 3. We had a Royal wedding, the NBA strike, and the costliest year ever for natural disasters with Mayor Cliff Morton reveals the time capsule in the column at the floods, earthquakes, Community Center with the help of former BP Police Chief Joe Kletch tsunamis, and tornadoes. Just past the tenth anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Osama Bin Laden was found and eliminated. We also lost a brilliant mind in Steve Jobs and Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was shot in Arizona but made a remarkable recovery. Maybe you’ll remember the co nclusion of the Harry Potter series, or the music of Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga? Regardless of what went on in the world, you’ll remember your hometown of Bethel Park, which also made quite a bit of history in 2011. We celebrated our 125th anniversary and the whole community joined together. Activities throughout the year included parades, living history tours at Bethel Presbyterian Cemetery, the Bla ck and Orange Ball, Community Day celebrations, and plenty of support from our local businesses with banners, balloons, messages and more. We also had our second book published on the history of our town, Bethel Park, by Kristen Normile, from the Images of America series by Arcadia Publishing. The whole town watched the quick progress on the construction of our new high school with the anticipation of i ts completion. We even had a black and orange cake from Bethel Bakery, and our own Smiley cookies at the local Eat’n Park. Everyone old and young was seen wearing more black and orange than ever before. During these events and throughout the year, the 125th Anniversary Committee was collecting memorabilia and important records to include in a time capsule to commemorate our 125th year. On the letter outside the time capsule, it is requested to be opened on June 6th, 2061, in recognition of Bethel Park’s 175th Anniversary. Where to locate the time capsule warranted a lot of discussion and due to preservation, it was determined that the time capsule would be placed inside. “To bury it, we would have had to take special precautions against water damage and the preservation of paper would require spraying each page with a costly preservative solution with no guarantee of success,” said Dick Kraft, coordinator of the time capsule for the 125th Anniversary Committee in his letter of dedication. The Community Center is the center of Bethel Park, both in name and location, and made the perfect spot to place our memories for safekeeping. The time capsule is embedded in one of the columns in the main banquet room and sits in a beautifully crafted wooden box built by the mayor himself. Dick and Pat Kraft, who are also members of the Bethel Park Historical Society, were in charge of coming up with the list of items that were put in the time capsule and chose things that will provide a snapshot of what Bethel Park and the world was like in the year 2011. They chose well. 18
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Logo: Artwork by ocreations, based on the original logo design by Diana DelRosso
Here’s a synopsis of items contained in the time capsule:
• Local newspapers and recent issues of IN Bethel Park Magazine and the Chronicles
• An aerial photograph of the Bethel Park High School campus (which won’t be around for much longer)
• Menus from local restaurants including Eat ‘N Park and The Warehouse Café
• Yearbooks from Bethel Park High School, Independence • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • •
Middle School, Neil Armstrong Middle School, and all five elementary schools Local church bulletins A list of the Bethel Park Farmer’s Market vendors A poster and program from the Memorial Day Ceremony at Bethel Cemetery A limited edition Heinz Ketchup bottle The first baseball thrown at Millenium Park A small basketball presented at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Gym at the Community Center A Bethel Park Police Force Arm Patch A list of the Bethel Park Hall Athletics Hall of Fame Members Bethel Park Police Brochure History of the Montour Trail Brochure Bethel Park School District Calendar 125th Anniversary Banner and list of the 125th Anniversary Committee members A commemorative stamped envelope from the 100th Anniversary of Bethel Park in 1986 Photographs of Community Day, the Black and Orange Ball, and more Letters of Perspective from William Spagnol, Borough Manager, Timothy Moury, Council President, Vince Gastgeb, Allegheny County Council Representative, and Donna Cook, Bethel Park School Board President Proclamation from Mayor Cliff Morton on the 125th Anniversary of Bethel Park Allegheny County Council Proclamation Honoring Bethel Park’s 125th Anniversary Letter of Recognition from State Rep. Matt Smith Personal letters from Mayor Cliff Morton and Dick Kraft, coordinator of the time capsule information DVDs of the 125th Anniversary events including the Opening Ceremony, tour of Bethel Cemetery, Black and Orange Ball, and Community Day A copy of Bethel Park, by Kristen Normile
(left to right) Pat and Dick Kraft of the 125th Anniversary Committee with Joan Morton
Mayor Cliff Morton asked 10-year-old Sydney Burns what she will be doing in 50 years while her family looks on.
When the capsule is opened in 2061, what will life be like? How will Bethel Park have changed? And, will there still be DVD players around to watch our memories? What it comes down to in the end is—what makes our town special? We all could agree that it’s the community spirit we’ve seen in our 125th year, our award-winning schools, local businesses, facilities including the Community Center and parks, access to transportation, affordable housing and low cost of living that make Bethel Park unique. “In addition to this, ultimately, what maintains the vibrancy of Bethel Park are our many citizens, both young and old,” said William Spagnol, Municipal Manager, in his letter of dedication included in the time capsule. It’s the senior citizens walking the track, the teller at your local bank, the road crews who pave, salt, and keep us safe, the volunteer baseball and soccer coaches, teachers, students, and all of the smiling faces we see every day that make Bethel Park such a great place to live. If we could have included a picture of everyone in the town, it would have been the most accurate representation of what life was like in Bethel Park in 2011, because the Blackhawk spirit is in all of us. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
aised in the city of Pittsburgh with a Scottish heritage, Christine Hayes Nolin found Carnegie Mellon University was a perfect fit. She didn’t know when she chose that school she’d be coming back more than 20 years later to make a name for herself working and volunteering for the university, which led to her rece nt nomination and winning of an Alumni Service Award from the university’s Alumni Association. Chris received her award during Cèilidh (pronounced ka-le) Weekend Oct. 27-30, 2011, a celebration which combined the university’s Homecoming, Family Weekend, and International Festival into one event. Graduating in 1985 with a degree from CMU’s Mellon College of Science, her career began as a chemist for Allied Signal where she contributed to the development of an ink additive used to print National Geographic magazine. She earned her Master’s Degree in Corporate Communication from Fairleigh Dickinson in 1988 and moved back to Pittsburgh in 1989, getting married the same year. Education was a high priority for Chris and she earned yet another degree in nursing and worked at Mercy Hospital for 10 years. Another shift in her career took her to IBM Corporation where she became a technical writer involved in software documentation and earned her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2001. With children six and four, Chris and her husband decided to settle in the suburbs and chose Bethel Park “because of the schools.” Now back in Pittsburgh, she became more involved in CMU on a volunteer basis, chairing the Class of 1985 Reunion Committee in 1995, 2005 and 2010 as well as contributing to the Reunion Giving Committee. After reuniting with her classmates and working with the university on the 20th reunion, her next step became evident. “I need to be here,” she said of the renowned university. Shortly after, she applied for and was selected as a Project Manager in the Computing Services Division at Carnegie Mellon in April 2008. Just eight months later, she was promoted to Senior Project Manager where she currently oversees a direct staff of five and is an integral part of the 200-person project office. “I love my job. It gets me out on campus and makes me feel like I am a part of the university community,” replied Nolin. “I also love to work with the students.” As an alumna of Kappa Kappa Gamma (KKG), a strong national sorority, Chris just knocked on their door one day and later became 20
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their chapter adviser. With a sorority that has grown from 25 sisters in 1985 to their current number close to 100, her role as chapter adviser is much more than something to put on paper. She’s very involved in helping the sorority with their philanthropic activities which include planning events to support local and na tional charities including Children’s Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House, and Reading is Fundamental. The Kappa sorority had over 1000 hours of community service, the highest of all the Greek organizations on campus. “It’s fun being a part of the ceremonies and late night phone calls,” said Nolin. Chris also contributes to the education of the girls, helping them learn management skills and the importan ce of giving back—lessons they will take far into their futures. Helping the sorority and organizing reunions aren’t the only things Chris does for CMU. She’s also an active participant in several other organizations at CMU including: the Carnegie Mellon Admissions Council since 2008; Faculty/Staff Peer Giving Committee since 2009; Alumni Advisory Board since 2010; Carnegie Mellon Staff Council since 200 9; and Chair of Take Our Daughters & Sons to Work Day 2012. The Alumni Service Award isn’t the first she’s won at CMU, either. Chris also led a team that received the 2010 Andy Award for Outstanding Innovation for a project that included converting all health records to electronic form and installing new software, patient check-in kiosks, and laptop stations in each of the 20 exam rooms. Chris plans to stay a ctive with KKG and the CMU Alumni teams she is on now. She recently joined the Project Management Institute outreach team and plans to give back locally through the Bethel Park Friends of the Library as she is an avid reader and wants to contribute to Bethel Park in a way that’s meaningful to her. She also enjoys being a part of the Pittsburgh Alumni Clan and taking her family to the Scottish Games held at Idlewild Park each fall. With two children in high school, college is on her mind. Her daughter Lizzy, a senior, participated in a pre-college program at CMU last summer where she lived on campus for a while, and is looking into the communication design curriculum. Her son Patrick is a junior in high school and recently played the general in the production of “White Christmas” last December. A lot will chan ge in the next few years, but one thing is for sure— their mother’s contributions as an employee and volunteer will teach them about the importance of education, commitment, and community service.
By Tracy Fedkoe Chris with her Kappa Sisters Maneesha Sakhuja, Ashtyn Hemendinger, and Isabelle Pan
Opposite Page: Top: Chris Nolin with CMU University President Dr. Jared Cohon Middle: Chris Nolin with her daughter Lizzy, husband Bob, and son Patrick at the award reception. Below: Chris Nolin in her Scottish tartan scarf with award certificate
Chris giving her acceptance speech at the award presentation
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
he Bethel Park boys’ high school varsity soccer team accomplished a great deal on the field this past year as they were crowned Section 4 champions beating out rival Mt. Lebanon, and also made it to the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) quarterfinals; however, their work and achievement didn’t stop with their on the field activities, as they were able to raise over $1,700 that went to South Hills families in need. The Bethel Park boys’ soccer team, led by Coach Mike Galietta, had a successful 2011
soccer campaign this year, but that is what Coach Galietta and his staff hope for, and expect, every year out of the talented boys squad. “We expect to contend for the section title and advance deep into the WPIAL playoffs
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By Leigh Lyons
year in and year out,” says Coach Galietta. The coaches expect this much out of the squad each year, but Coach Galietta believes that the team needs to set their own goals for each year because the boys have to be invested in
Bethel Park
what their goals are. This year’s goals of winning the difficult section title and advancing deep into the WPIAL playoffs were fulfilled. The team started the season with a record of 1-2 but then pulled off a five game winning streak to get back on track. They finished their section play undefeated with an 8-0-2 record, but it didn’t come so easily for the Black Hawks. After their five game winning streak early in the season, Bethel Park tied two teams during section play that they knew they would have to beat if they wanted to claim the title. Bethel Park tied both Mt. Lebanon and
Baldwin 0-0. After those two crucial section ties, Bethel Park put another string of victories together culminating with their victories over both Baldwin and Mt. Lebanon. The Black Hawks beat Mt. Lebanon 3-1 and then handled Baldwin with a 3-0 score claiming the Section 4 title. Coach Galietta says, “Beating Mt. Lebanon is always special. Frankly, beating any South Hills team is special. It is a great section rivalry.” Coach Galietta might be extra proud of his team this year because he says “Mt. Lebanon has won the section title on more than one occasion because we did not take care of our business. This year we ran the table the second time we played our section opponents and that is very rewarding.” This year’s team was led by a strong group of 12 seniors, one of which being the lone captain of the squad, Ryan Thorsen. “We are
old school in a lot of ways; we have only one captain. This year it was Ryan Thorsen,” Coach Galietta says. Thorsen, with the other 11 seniors, played a big role in the success of this year’s team. Thorsen and teammate A.J. Vescovi were rewarded for their efforts by being named to the 2011 All-WPIAL squad. Thorsen, Vescovi, Clayton Schrey, Matt Vater, and Sean Gallagher were all chosen as All-Section players for Section 4 and Spencer Steinhaus was an All-Section Honorable Mention player as well. Between the senior leadership and experience, Coach Galietta believes that it was the team’s attitude and work ethic that were perhaps the most outstanding aspects of this year’s team. “Our ability to compete and challenge for every single ball was instrumental to our success. The attitude and work ethic were outstanding this year.” It makes sense that some of the strongest attributes of the 2011 Bethel Parks boys’ soccer team were attitude and work ethic because what this group of high school students did off the field may be one of their greatest accomplishments as well. The group of young men that formed the Bethel Park high school boys soccer team have always been interested in different forms of community service, and once this season was over, they got together and got busy forming their plan to help out needy South Hills families for the second year this holiday season through the South Hills Interfaith Ministries and Angel Emporium. Some of the boys came up with this idea on their own after reading that the South Hills Interfaith Ministries had growing concerns that because of the teachers’ strike, the donating of holiday gifts would be eliminated. Neil Armstrong Middle School usually collected gifts for the Ministries. Although the boys did have some help through the Booster organization who communicated month long fundraisers, and the girls’ soccer program also donated to the “Regifting Project,” most of the work was done on their own. The team kicked off their month long service project last year on Saturday, November 5th, and collected around $600 on this day alone. With the money in hand, the team then went to the Champs Outlet in Century III Mall where, with coupons, they were able to buy $1,716.08 worth of merchandise. They bought a total of 104 items including shoes, Steelers caps, Penn State fleeces, Pitt jackets, a variety of college t-shirts and hoodies, polo shirts, v-neck shirts and socks. Next, the soccer team moved on to their second fundraiser, which was a letter and email-writing campaign, coupled with Sarris Pretzel sales. They offered a used book sale as well. After the second week of the service project, the team shopped at Kohl’s Department store with $526 in hand and a 30% coupon. While shopping mostly for adults, the team was able to buy crock pots, poker sets, cologne, bath sets, hats, blankets, scarves, purses, slippers, pajamas, watches, earrings and much more. In total, they donated 55 gifts from Kohl’s to the South Hills Interfaith Ministries that had a retail value of $1,494.01. Finally, the big event of the week was Friday, November 18th when the group hosted the Second Annual SHIM Bowling Benefit at the Legacy Lanes on Curry Road. The team sold 64 spots for bowling that night and used the money raised to buy 63 toys for children at Toys ‘R Us. They then finished out the project by turning in over 80 gifts collected during the season through the “Regifting Project.” Much like the efforts on the field for the Bethel Park boys’ Soccer team, the community service project with SHIM and the Angel Emporium was a group effort. All the members of the team contributed in one way or another and used their individual strengths to benefit the project. It’s clear that the Bethel Park boys’ Soccer team is committed to working together for the benefit of the team on and off the field.
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Bethel Park Public Library 5100 West Library Avenue Bethel Park, PA 15102. 412.835.2207 www.bethelparklibrary.org
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SPRING 2012
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Let’s Get Physical What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
© 2012 UPMC
What’s Inside page 2
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
page 3
Fit at Any Age
page 4
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
page 5
Brightening Lives With Light
page 6
A Walk to Remember
page 7
A Lasting Legacy of Caring
Need Quick, Convenient Care?
Head to UPMC Mercy’s South SideWalk-in Clinic Open days, evenings, and weekends, it’s the solution of choice for busy patients As a single, working mother of two, Joanne Krapp feels fortunate to have the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic available close by. She doesn’t have a car, but the clinic is just a 10-minute bus ride from her Carrick home. “It’s so convenient. You don’t need an appointment, and you’re in and out in no time,” says Joanne. “They treat you like you’re the first patient of the day, no matter what time you go.” Joanne first went to the clinic two years ago when she woke up with a burning rash all over her body. Diagnosed with multiple skin allergies — including sensitivity to various metals — she now takes precautions but periodically experiences allergic reactions. She’s been to the clinic for treatment about a half dozen times in two years.
A board-certified physician is on site at all times, along with nurses and other highly trained staff. Patients of all ages are accepted at the clinic, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free and plentiful.
A neighbor you can count on Kelly Sassaman, administrator of UPMC Mercy’s South Side Outpatient Center, says the clinic provides x-rays, sutures, blood work and screening, physical exams, and vaccinations, plus immediate care for such conditions as: • Colds and flu • Sore throats and earaches • Minor cuts and scrapes • Minor broken bones • Sprains and strains The clinic also serves as a primary care provider. Staff can refer patients to specialists, and they can provide a fast track to emergency services at UPMC Mercy, a Level 1 trauma center, she adds.
“I’m often treated by the same people when I go there. For someone like me who has a fear of hospitals, that’s important because it makes me feel very comfortable,” she says.
“We’re not an emergency room, but we handle many conditions,” explains Ms. Sassaman. “We’re meeting the needs of the community. Our neighbors don’t have to cross the river, deal with traffic or parking, or wait in an emergency room for treatment of minor injuries or illness. We can do that here.”
The Walk-in Clinic, located on the second floor of the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center at 2000 Mary St., is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
Joanne hopes she won’t have to return for treatment anytime soon. “But, if I do, I know I’ll be in good hands,” she says.
Quality care in a comfortable setting
Pain Management and More In addition to the Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services. The convenient, one-stop location also provides everyday care ranging from EKGs and laboratory work to same-day surgery, as well as pain management services. At the center’s Pain Clinic, specialists work with patients to diagnose the source of chronic pain, and then reduce it using interventional treatments. Specially trained surgeons perform procedures, including injections and radiofrequency ablation.
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“We provide excellent care, and it’s so convenient for our patients. Most people are treated within a half hour,” says Jacqueline Belton, director of the Pain Clinic. The Pain Clinic, located on the ground floor of the outpatient center, is open weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. To learn more about the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center and all the services available, visit UPMC.com and click on Hospitals and Facilities.
Fit atAnyAge Comedian George Burns — who lived to be 100 — often advised his audience to “Look to the future, because that’s where you’ll spend the rest of your life.” Vonda Wright, MD — a practicing orthopaedic surgeon at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine and a nationally recognized author of several books on active aging and fitness — thinks that’s sound advice. “Nothing is more natural than aging,” she says. “Adults over 40 today are redefining what it means to age. They’re looking ahead — and doing what it takes to stay fit and vital. “With just 30 minutes of daily exercise, you can minimize your risk for 35 common illnesses — including high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes,” says Dr. Wright, who also directs the center’s Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA®), which focuses on maximizing the performance of both elite and recreational athletes over age 40.
Staying fit as you age “As we enter our 40s and 50s, we’re just starting to hit our stride, with the potential for many years of wonderful living ahead of us. A well-balanced exercise plan is a key to maintaining that quality of life as we grow older,” she maintains.
Many say that 50 is the new 30 as today’s mature adults enjoy more active, fitter, and healthier lives than any other generation.
“There’s no age or activity level to prevent any older adult from being active,” explains Dr. Wright. In fact, studies of 90-year-old men doing resistance training on a daily basis showed improvements in their strength and functioning.
Getting started
Starting — and sticking with — a fitness plan initially can be hard, says Dr. Wright. “The first step is to make exercise a part of your daily routine. Schedule it on your calendar, like an appointment,” she advises. “Don’t be a weekend warrior. Instead, try to maintain a moderate activity level throughout the week, and increase your exercise level gradually to reduce your chance of overuse or injury.” She tells her patients to FACE the future with a balanced, total body workout designed to achieve maximum benefits while avoiding injury:
F — Flexibility with daily stretching exercises A — Aerobic cardiovascular exercises every other day, using interval-style training Carry a load (or strength train) to build and maintain muscles in your arms, C — legs, and core (stomach, back, and abdomen) — Equilibrium and balance through simple exercises like standing on one foot E “Whenever possible, mix up activities like running, swimming, cycling, or rowing,” encourages Dr. Wright. “Cross training helps promote total fitness while reducing the chance for injury. Most of all, take that first step!” To learn more about UPMC’s PRIMA program for mature athletes, call 412-432-3651 or visit UPMC.com/SportsMedicine. You’ll find PRIMA listed under Performance in the Our Services section.
Should you see a doctor first? You’re 50 years old and a pack-a-day smoker. You also have high blood pressure, and you haven’t exercised since Ronald Reagan was president. Should you see your doctor before hitting the local gym? “Regular exercise is the best gift you can give yourself. But it’s important to use common sense when getting started,” says Lance Brunton, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC Mercy who sees patients at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. If you’re in generally good health and starting off with light to moderate physical activity, an extensive medical workup probably isn’t necessary. “But if you’ve been diagnosed with any medical condition, have been sedentary for some time, or are at risk for potential heart problems, it’s essential to talk to your doctor,” advises Dr. Brunton. “Working together, you and your doctor can create the right exercise plan based on your age, physical condition, family history, and other key factors.” If you’re over the age of 40, visit UPMC.com/Today to take the American College of Sports Medicine’s Physical Activity Readiness Self-Exam.
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do If you dread the approach of spring and the arrival of allergy season, here are a few ways to reduce your sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes
What to do If you take medication to control your symptoms, start treatment early — before your seasonal allergies flare up, says BJ Ferguson, MD, director of the Division of Sino-Nasal Disorders and Allergy at UPMC, and a professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. In western Pennsylvania, tree pollen starts flying around by the end of February or in early March, when it warms up enough for trees to begin budding.
Medications to take Dr. Ferguson recommends starting with an over-thecounter (OTC) medication, preferably a non-sedating antihistamine. She cautions that some products can be sedating or even result in extreme drowsiness that can impair driving. Be sure to read the accompanying instructions or ask your pharmacist about side effects. OTC decongestants can relieve nasal congestion but should only be used on a short-term basis, Dr. Ferguson says. Decongestants can cause significant side effects, such as insomnia, agitation, heart palpitations, and a rise in blood pressure. A saline nasal wash also can help relieve congestion.
When to see a doctor “If you are getting no relief and it is impairing your quality of life, you should see a doctor about more effective alternatives and testing,” says Dr. Ferguson. • A doctor can prescribe medications that can provide effective relief from chronic congestion. • Allergy testing can determine precisely what you are or aren’t allergic to. A new sublingual immunotherapy administered under the tongue is just as effective as allergy shots, and with fewer side effects, says Dr. Ferguson. • Your doctor also can determine if your nasal blockage is caused by inflammation or nasal polyps, a deviated septum, enlarged adenoids, or an infection.
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Putting Ergonomics to Work for You At home and on the job, ergonomics can help you avoid injury and discomfort — and even increase your productivity The goal of ergonomics is to make our places of work as safe, comfortable, and efficient as possible. But let’s not limit its uses to our day jobs! According to the physical therapists at UPMC Mercy, many of the aches and pains people experience can be attributed to ergonomic issues like poor posture, excessive repetitive movement, or improper lifting techniques. They advise applying basic ergonomic principles at work, home, or play to help avoid injury and perform at your best. • Use the right equipment. Make sure the tool fits the job and your body, whether you’re sitting at a desk, vacuuming, riding a bike, or swinging a golf club. • Work at the right height for you. A too-low computer chair or a too-high kitchen counter can wreak havoc on your neck, back, and shoulders. • Avoid contact stress. Wear gloves or use tools designed to reduce pressure on soft tissue to avoid blisters and other skin damage. • Keep items within easy reach. Extend your arms out on each side. Picture an imaginary arc in front of you from left to right. Place the tools or supplies you use most often within that area. • Avoid repetitive movements and working long periods in one position. Alternate tasks and change your body position regularly. Stretch every 20 to 30 minutes. Visit UPMC.com/Today where you can find more ergonomic tips to use at work and at home.
Brightening Lives with Light Light therapy is proving to be an effective treatment for bipolar depression and other mood disorders Michele Twyman of Penn Hills always dreaded the approach of winter and the holidays. As the days shortened, she grew increasingly tired, sleepy, and depressed. All she wanted to do was crawl into bed — and stay there. “I didn’t enjoy anything — from decorating to shopping. I never felt like celebrating,” says Ms. Twyman, who has a bipolar disorder and has battled depression for more than 30 years. But last Christmas was different. For the first time in years, she decorated, shopped, and made wreaths and centerpieces. “I enjoy the holidays again. I realize now how much I missed being happy about life’s little things,” she says.
New treatment shows bright promise
People with bipolar depression are especially sensitive to changes in outdoor ambient light and the seasons, she explains. The onset of fall and winter can trigger symptoms similar to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), including fatigue, sluggishness, daytime sleepiness, carb cravings, loss of interest, and inability to experience pleasure. Individuals with bipolar depression also may have suicidal thoughts.
How and why it works
“There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy.” — Dorothy Sit, MD
Ms. Twyman credits her new outlook to an artificial light box provided by Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC) of UPMC. Every afternoon, she sits in bright light for about a half hour while reading or planning appointments and activities. It took just a few weeks to feel the effects. She now wakes up feeling more rested and relaxed. She’s also better able to care for her 95-year-old father. “There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy,” says Dorothy Sit, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, and a researcher at WPIC who is leading an ongoing study in the use of light therapy for treatment of bipolar depression. “Most patients feel better within two weeks of starting it, and continue to improve for up to eight weeks.” According to Dr. Sit, treatment is inexpensive and effective. Patients with seasonal depression require 30 to 60 minutes of daily light therapy while patients with non-seasonal depression need 45 to 60 minutes.
Light therapy replaces lost sunlight exposure and resets the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythms — important for everyone’s general health, mood, and thinking. That’s why light therapy also can help patients with jet lag, shift workers, and people with sleep disorders.
While light therapy is generally safe, patients with bipolar depression also must be on a mood stabilizer or they’ll be at risk for manic episodes, says Dr. Sit. Other possible side effects include headaches, eyestrain, irritation, agitation, and insomnia. These symptoms normally disappear following adjustments in the time and length of treatment.
Light therapy tips • Check with your doctor or mental health professional to see if light therapy is a good option for you. • Follow your doctor’s advice concerning any special precautions you need to take. • Use light therapy only with guidance from your doctor or mental health provider to minimize possible side effects and maximize benefits. Visit UPMC.com/Today for more information on bipolar depression and the light therapy study. To participate in the study, call 1-800-436-2461. For information on light boxes, visit the Center for Environmental Therapeutics website at cet.org.
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AWalk to Remember UPMC Rehabilitation Institute helps make a seemingly impossible wedding dream come true Megan Dow was an athletic, carefree 27-year-old with so much to look forward to — from her upcoming wedding to a new house and barn. But a freak ATV accident on Memorial Day 2010 changed her life in an instant, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. It took a week for Megan to realize her broken neck and back wouldn’t be a quick fix and another six months to acknowledge that her paralysis might have permanent effects. Despite the diagnosis, the Negley, Ohio, resident was determined to walk down the aisle on her wedding day 16 months later. “What means more to a girl than walking down the aisle at her wedding?” asks Megan, who became engaged just weeks before the accident.
Regaining the life she lost Initially, she couldn’t sit up without help and wore braces to support her back, neck, and legs. “I went from doing everything to not being able to brush my teeth; from being able to throw a bale of hay to not being able to pick up a gallon of milk,” Megan says. An avid outdoorswoman, Megan longed to return to her activities, including horseback riding, camping, volunteering as a 4H Club adviser, and working as an interior designer. “I absolutely loved the life I had before the accident. I had to work to bring these things back into my life,” she says.
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At the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s spinal cord injury unit at UPMC Mercy, Megan’s team of specialists put her to work four hours a day, six days a week in an intensive rehabilitation program. Luckily, she had use of her quadriceps, which allowed her to walk with the help of braces and a walker. Slowly, she relearned everyday skills like dressing herself and walking. She also learned new skills, such as transferring to a shower chair from her wheelchair, and did exercises to build her strength. Megan vowed she’d walk without the walker by that Christmas (a goal she met by Thanksgiving) and down the aisle without a cane. A few weeks before her wedding, Megan donned her gown and practiced walking in the gym with her physical therapist.
Walking happily into the future On her wedding day — Oct. 1, 2011 — Megan did walk down the aisle. Among the guests were her UPMC doctor, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. “They’re a huge part of my life and the reason I’m where I am today. They had to be there!” exclaims Megan. “I’m so grateful to everyone at the Rehabilitation Institute. They gave me the tools I needed, and they encouraged and steered me in the right direction.”
Megan and Eric Dow walked down the aisle after exchanging marriage vows on Oct. 1, 2011.
Megan and her husband Eric honeymooned in Cancún, Mexico, where they snorkeled, swam, kayaked, and even explored some ancient ruins. Today, while she still uses a wheelchair and cane, Megan is thankful she can walk up to two hours with just leg braces. She’s also driving again, riding horses, camping, and doing other activities. “It was a miracle. I’m so grateful I can still do what I used to do — I just do them differently,” Megan says. To learn more about UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its services, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute. You’ll also find a link to Megan’s story and those of other patients who’ve benefited from the institute’s specialized care.
A Lasting Legacy of Caring It was 165 years ago that a small band of Irish nuns pioneered the ministry of Catholic health care in Pittsburgh — a spirit of compassionate care that is alive today at UPMC Mercy Catholic health care has a long and rich tradition in the United States, providing care to medically underserved, diverse, and poor communities. In Pittsburgh, that tradition took shape in the work of seven Sisters of Mercy who first came from Ireland in 1843 to care for the poor and sick. In 1847, those remarkable women built the Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh, the first Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh. Today, at UPMC Mercy — the last Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh — their legacy of giving reverent, compassionate care of the highest quality to all patients is flourishing. To Sisters of Mercy, their fourth vow — caring for the poor, sick, and uneducated — is as sacred as the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. “Scripture provides the model we follow,” explains Phyllis Grasser, vice president of mission effectiveness and spiritual care at UPMC Mercy. “The healing ministry of Christ included a commitment to the poor and vulnerable.”
Securing our mission and identity When the Sisters of Mercy began seeking a partner to help secure the hospital’s future, preserving its faith-based mission of care was of vital concern. In 2008, Mercy Hospital merged with UPMC under an agreement that assured that the hospital would retain its Catholic identity and ethics. That agreement was one of the first of its kind in the United States between a Catholic hospital and a secular health system, and has since become a model for others. Partnering with UPMC also put the struggling hospital on solid financial ground and enabled it to upgrade facilities and bring in new specialized programs and advanced technologies, says Ms. Grasser. UPMC Mercy will continue to provide the best and most advanced medical care to the region’s underserved and most vulnerable populations.
“The executive team is very supportive of the mission, and they’ve encouraged us to strengthen UPMC Mercy’s Catholic tradition,” adds Ms. Grasser.
The mission in action Mercy has always been respected for the important role it has played in the lives of people throughout western Pennsylvania. For nearly 170 years, people have trusted the sisters to care for them with respect, regardless of social status or ability to pay. That has not changed, says Ms. Grasser. Since merging with UPMC, the hospital’s charity care has doubled. While some sisters remain actively involved at UPMC Mercy, the staff is comprised mainly of lay people. Although the lay staff come from a variety of religious traditions, they have a deep understanding of and commitment to the hospital’s faith-based mission. With the support and encouragement of the sisters and the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Ms. Grasser is helping to build a generation of lay leaders to carry Mercy’s mission and values into the future. To do that, she and her staff regularly host lay leadership training programs, as well as seminars for all employees that focus on the hospital’s Catholic identity. “The qualities of trust, teamwork, forgiveness, and generosity are at the core of who we are and what we do as people and as care providers,” explains Ms. Grasser. “They bind us to each other and to our patients.” “The mission, vision, and values of Mercy have not changed. Providing quality medical care with respect and reverence for all people is our responsibility — and our legacy,” says Ms. Grasser.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
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.
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Community Open House April 19 5 to 7 p.m.
irst responders in Bethel Park Municipality are now better prepared for pet emergencies thanks to Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation and Pet Emergency Training, LLC. Two 02 Fur Life TM kits were purchased with donations from people attending the free Pet First Aid class sponsored in Bethel Park in August by Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation and taught by Karen Sable of Pet Emergency Training, LLC. “Thirty-plus people attended the class in Bethel Park,” said Deb Chebatoris, owner of Chartiers Custom Pet Cremation. In addition to hosting the class, Deb also prepares a basic Pet First Aid kit for each person attending to take home. “The students generously offered donations after the class, so Karen offered to purchase the 02 Fur Life TM kits from her supplier and donate them to the municipality.” When an animal needs oxygen after a fire or accident, a mask for humans doesn’t give a tight enough fit to the muzzle to be effective. The 02 Fur Life TM kit contains three sizes of oxygen masks with tubing that can attach to a standard oxygen tank ensuring that a cat or small dog, medium-sized dog and large dog with short or long snout will get the oxygen they need. And in teaching that one of the first elements of pet first aid a person needs to learn is to restrain the animal so that it can be treated safely, Karen adds, “The bag can be used to restrain a cat if you need to.” The kit also contains an instructional DVD for use of the masks and decals to place on emergency vehicles to advertise that the pet
emergency oxygen masks are available in that vehicle. “Many police and fire companies ca n’t use their own money to purchase things not intended for humans,” Karen explained, so even if they had wanted to, Bethel Park or other municipalities or services would need to find private money to purchase the kits or have them donated. The kits were presented to Bethel Park Police Chief John Mackey and Dave of TriCommunity South EMS at the November 14 Bethel Park council meeting. Police Chief Mackey t hanked Deb and Karen for their donation and added, “We’re so glad to have these on hand, but we hope we never have to use them.” You can watch the presentation on the BPTV channel on YouTube in the regular council meeting of November 14, 2011 as part of the Police Chief report beginning at about 5:05.
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A Little Inspiration by Autumn Shadier 10th grade
Music (Pantoum)
Concrete,
By Danielle Aiello 9th grade
gray, solid, cracking, hiding, never-ending, weather, footprints, stem, sunshine, peeking, inspiring, growing, subtle, innocent,
Symbols clash in the background, Singer’s voice roars above the stadium. Lead guitar speeds up the tempo, Stadium of fans clap for more.
Daisy
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Bass drums start to keep the beat, Symbols clash in the background. Electric bass joins in with the beat, Lead guitar speeds up the tempo.
Bethel Park
Singer’s voice roars above the stadium, Bass drums start to keep the beat. Stadium of fans clap for more, Electric bass joins in with the beat.
Dear Cancer By Jonathan Unger 9th grade Dear cancer, I hate you. Seriously. I am suffering And it's your fault. I blame you. You took my kidney And my confidence. I was close to death. You pushed me there Shoved me. But I came back. I suffered, But I am still alive. I will fight Until I defeat you. And I WILL defeat you. Lots of hate, I will destroy you.
The Sparrow Samantha Edsall 9th grade You are so small. You perch on the branches of the cherry. I watch as you spread your wings. You flutter away. You perch on the branches of the cherry. You’ve returned once more to my yard. You flutter away. I know you’ll return tomorrow. You’ve returned once more to my yard. You are so small. I know you’ll return tomorrow. I watch as you spread your wings.
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Congratulations to Bethel Park High School seniors Trevor Walter and Nick Poe, who scored in the 90th percentile nationally on the 2012 Level 4 National German Exam. Trevor’s score of 94% was sixth out of the 122 Western Pennsylvania high school students who took the exam and placed him in the top 7% nationally. Nick’s 93% score placed him seventh in the region and in the top 9% nationally. Both students are now eligible to compete for a scholarship to travel and study in Germany this summer. Congratulations to BPHS junior Lucy Sedor-Franzak, who was one of 14 area high school students who advanced to the finals of the Grades 8-12 Monologue Competition in the 18th annual Shakespeare Monologue and Scene Contest, at the Pittsburgh Public Theater. Nearly 1,000 students in grades 4-12 participated in the preliminary round and only 26 scenes and monologues advanced to the finals. Congratulations to BPHS juniors Julianna Buchwald and Jamie Lucarelli, who have been selected to participate as People to People Student Ambassadors this summer. They will be traveling with other students from local schools for three weeks during July and August, touring France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy, focusing on cultural exchange activities and service projects. People to People was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to promote global educational and service opportunities. Franklin Elementary Students and their families participated in No Name Calling Week by creating posters using the theme, “No Sticks. No Stones.” The contest generated 180 entries. Winners were selected from each home room and the winner received a t-shirt, certificate, Bullying Stops Here wristband and a No Name Calling pin. Honorable Mentions were also identified and they also received a certificate, wristband and pin. Each participating family received wristbands. The winners were Henry Gaston, Zander Macartie, Bryce Clancy, Alessia Kubrick, Novena Ferency, Ethan Culbertson, Megan Harrie, Katerina Velisaris, Lily Gaston, Brianna Hayes, Sadie Borandi, Trinity Ferency, Ash Carter, Alyssa Sholder and Tyler Simpson. Honorable Mentions were Samuel Highfield, Carter Arabia, Anthony Zaborusky, Charles Metzler, Coby Goltz, Xavier Reynolds, Sean Eckert, Brady Dodd, David Jakel, Isabella Comfort, Robbie Abraham, Dimitry Geronimos, Ben Rutherford, Kate Settle, Nathan Caruso, Matthew Scott, Megan Malecki, Alyssa Pollice, Abby Contino, Nicholas Willman and Alyssa Arnold. Several BPSD students were winners at the local Elks Lodge “Hoop Shoot” at the Bethel Park Community Center. Congratulations
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to Josie Gorges (William Penn), who won the Girls 8-9 age group; Ryan Meis (Lincoln), who won the Boys 8-9 age group; Alexander Mullen (NAMS), who won the Boys 10-11 age group and Abby DelBene (NAMS), who won the Girls 12-13 age group. These winners qualified to move on to the Elks District Hoop Shoot. At Districts, Josie made 22 of 25 baskets to win her age group; Ryan made 19 of 25 baskets to win his age group; and Alex made 20 of 25 baskets to win his age group. Abby placed third. Josie, Ryan and Alex will now compete in the State Hoop Shoot on March 3 at Penn State. Good luck to all!
Jacob Cunningham (percussion) and Tyler Petrossi (percussion).
Congratulations to the following BPHS students who successfully auditioned and have been selected to perform in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association’s Region Chorus Concert, which will be held on Friday, March 9 at Mercer Area High School • Holly Brueggman (soprano II) • Troy Dunlop (tenor I) • Mackenzie Happe (soprano II) • Peter Henkels (tenor I) • Jocelyn Hyrb (alto II) • Zach Laufer (bass I) • Ben Muscato (bass I) • Nicholas Pilotta (bass II) • Lucy Sedor Franzak (soprano II) • Tristan Slater (soprano II)
Congratulations to Franklin Elementary School for the receipt of a $5,000 Lowes Education Grant, which will be used to develop a Sensory Play Therapy Room at Franklin. Spearheading the grant application were Principal Dr. Shirley Dickinson and Social Worker Charisse Bowman. Memorial Fourth Grade student Patrick May will be this year’s “Honored Hero” at the Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon, which will take place in Loudon County, Virginia on June 2. The event is a benefit for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, and is a cause near and dear to Patrick, as he is a Crohn’s patient. To learn more, go to www.ccteamchallenge.org.
Congratulations to the BPHS students who received the Top of the Shop Awards from the Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School. These awards are presented to those students who demonstrate outstanding conduct, attendance, course proficiency and professionalism. Congratulations to Bryan Deal (Protective Services), James Hammerle (Automotive Mechanics), Alec Hostuttler (Advertising and Design), Ryan Schaumm (Machinist Technician) and Jeffrey Wagner (Building Trades).
Ten BPHS students participated in the Model United Nations program held at Duquesne University this past Friday and Saturday. The BPHS students participated in this program as representatives from Columbia. Competing on the team were Will Ament, Austin Anderson, Madeline Balzarini, Julianna Buchwald, Jarrod Cingel, Shannon Fagan, Molly Graham, Claire Pike, Rebecca Rodgers and Rachel Taylor.
Congratulations to Jamie Cavrak, who finished in Fourth Place in the Interpretation of Poetry Event at the Mercer Area High School Forensics Tournament. She read J.J. Jonas’ poem, “The Homecoming Queen.” Congratulations to the five Neil Armstrong Middle School musicians who successfully auditioned and were selected to participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association’s Elementary District Band Fest West that will be held on May 5 at Shaler High School. Representing Bethel Park in this event will be Katelyn Gobbie (clarinet), Christian Stiefvater (trombone), Jacob Opie (baritone),
The William Penn PTO would like to thank everyone who supported the Make-A-Wish Service Project. This year’s week-long money drive collected $2,000.
Congratulations to the following BPHS and IMS students who were recognized at the Regional Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS), which was held on February 4: • Sophomore Jarrod Cingel – First Place for his project, “Software Parallelization and Machine Translation.” Jarrod also received a Special Award of $100 from The Technology Collaborative for earning a high score with his computer programming project. • Senior Will Ament – First Place for “The Effects of Marcellus Shale Drilling on Cross Creek.” Will also received a Perseverance Award for participating in PJAS for six consecutive years. • Sophomore Molly Graham – First Place for “The Relationship between Gender and Conformity.” • Eighth Grader Emily Augustine – First Place for “Effects of Global Warming on Deep Ocean Currents.” • Eighth Grader Billy DePoutiloff – First Place for “The Varying Rates at Which Different Insulators Retain Heat.” • Eighth Grader Christian Smetana – First Place for “Truss Bridge Strength.” • Junior Julianna Buchwald – Second Place for “Effect of Energy Drinks on Heart Rate of Daphnia Magna.” • Junior Shannon Fagan – Second Place for “Water Wheel Energy.” • Freshman Adithya Krishnachand – Second Place for “Diagnosing Diabetes.” • Sophomore Liam Wolf – Second Place for “The Dangers of Sleep Deprivation.” • Eighth Grader Jack Brownfield – Second Place for “Does Coffee Kill Bacteria?” The First Place students will advance to the State PJAS, which will be held at Penn State in May. Good luck!
Three Bethel Park High School Art Students had artwork represented in the Scholastic Art Awards, sponsored by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers at LaRoche College. Congratulations to: • Junior Kristine Hulefeld – Silver Medal • Freshman Amy Beaudine – 2 Honorable Mentions • Sophomore Clare Nero – Honorable Mention Their work will be on display at the Cantellops Gallery on the LaRoche Campus until February 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year, 1,300 students from the region submitted artwork for consideration.
Four Bethel Park High School students received the Extra Effort Award from the Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School for outstanding work in the First and Second Quarters of the 2011-2012 school year. Receiving the Award for the First Quarter were: • Senior Nicholas Salak (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) • Senior Katherine Skirda-Kemerer (Food Service) • Sophomore Grace Tosic (Computer Information Systems) Receiving the Award for the Second Quarter were: • Ryan Darges (Advertising and Design) • Grace Tosic (Computer Information Systems) The students were chosen by their instructors for their demonstration of outstanding attitude, work ethic, attendance and dependability. The students received certificates and letters of congratulations for their efforts.
Westmoreland County Community College is hosting an Orientation Session for students who are interested in enrolling in FirstEnergy’s Power Systems Institute (PSI) Fall 2012 program to earn a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Electric Utility Technology. The meeting will be held on Saturday, March 24 at the Youngwood Campus Science Building from 10 a.m. to noon.
Waynesburg University is offering a Sports Announcing Camp June 18-22 for students currently in grades 10, 11 and 12. The Camp Registration Fee is $500 and space is limited. The registration deadline is April 27 or until all spaces are filled.
Congratulations to the Bethel Park High School Girls and Boys Basketball Teams, who have qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs. Go Hawks!
On January 8 and February 5, the Bethel Park Junior High and High School Cheerleading Squads worked with BPHS students from Girl Scout Troop 785 to work with and cheer on more than 300 Special Olympic Athletes from Allegheny County during Bowling Tournaments. The girls participated in the Opening Ceremonies, assisted on the lanes and awarded medals during the Awards Ceremony. Cheerleaders Emily Swogger and Natalie Lalama accompanied several athletes during the singing of the National Anthem. The Cheerleaders will participate in the Allegheny County Special Olympic Basketball Tournament on March 3 at the Petersen Events Center on the University of Pittsburgh campus, performing during the Opening Ceremonies and cheering on the teams as they participate during the day. Special Olympics of Allegheny County will be the beneficiary of the 22nd Annual Bethel Park Cheerleading Fashion Show, which will be held on Sunday, March 11 at Independence Middle School. Joining the Cheerleaders as models this year will be Bethel Park Special Olympics Athletes. The Bethel Park High School Fast Pitch Softball Players and Coaches are sponsoring a Softball Clinic on Saturday, March 10 in the Independence Middle School gymnasium for players ages 5-12. Players ages 5-8 will participate from 10 a.m. to noon and players ages 9-12 will participate from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Registration is $10, payable to “Bethel Park Softball Boosters” and can be mailed to Lori McMahon; 2316 Cassidy Drive; Bethel Park, PA 15102.
Congratulations to BPHS track athletes Chris Harkins, Trevor Walter, A.J. Vescovi and Ryan Lee, for winning the 4x800 relay at the Edinboro Track and Field Meet and for placing second in the 4x400 relay. Way to go!
“FLOCKING” has come to Bethel Park! Please support the BPHS Girls Volleyball Team by participating in their “FLOCKING” fundraiser. Surprise your friends and family with a lawn full of beautiful pink flamingos! This is a memorable way to celebrate any special occasion (birthday, anniversary, baby, etc.) or just to have a good laugh. These pink beauties come in a variety of sizes or you can design your own. The flock will quietly appear in the “Flockees’” yard and just as quietly disappear the next night. To learn more, go to www.BPGirlsVolleyball.com or contact Leslie Poe at tpoe1@verizon.net.
Congratulations to BPHS senior Kelsey Metheny, who qualified for the State Indoor Track and Field Championships in the 800 meters at the Edinboro Meet. Congratulations also go to the DMR Relay Team (Kelsey Metheny, Hillary Boxheimer, Amanda Ruschel and Tatiana Ruzzini) and the 4x800 Relay Team (Stephanie Cobb, Kelsey Metheny, Hillary Boxheimer and Amanda Ruschel) for earning First Place at Edinboro.
There will be a 50th Reunion/ Celebration of Bethel Park High School Swimming on Saturday, May 5 from 7 to 11 p.m. The evening is for all current and past members of BPHS Boys and Girls Swimming/Diving Teams. The festivities begin with a tour of the new BPHS 8-lane swimming pool from 6 to 6:45 p.m., followed by the Reunion at the Community Center from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets are $25 each and includes a buffet dinner and slideshow celebrating 50 years of BP swimming. If you have pictures you would like to share for the slideshow, please send them to bp50swimreunion@gmail.com. For more information, please go to: http://www.bpsd.org/protected/ArticleVi ew.aspx?iid=5P0YYY&dasi=3IY0. We hope you can join us for this great evening to celebrate a long-standing, successful Bethel Park tradition!
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By Heather Holtschlag
More than half of the energy used in the average American home goes toward heating and cooling, and if your house is not properly insulated, much of that expense can go to waste. Insulation, particularly when installed in an area such as the attic, requires less work from the air conditioning and furnace systems, translating into less expense and fewer repairs. There are a number of things to note to properly install attic insulation, the first of which is called R-value. R-value measures the effectiveness of types of insulation; the higher an insulation’s R-value, the more effective it is. The recommended R-value for walls and floors in a mild climate is R-11; for ceilings and attics, it is R-19. In moderate climates, R-values should be a minimum of R-19 for walls and floors and R-30 for ceilings and attics. And, in cold climates, R-values for walls and floors should be R-19, and R-38 to R-49 for ceilings and attics. If you use your attic as living space, it is a good idea to install insulation in the walls and ceiling. If it is not used, you should still insulate, and the empty space will provide ample room for installation. If your attic is being insulated for the first time, it should include a vapor barrier, which is any material that does not absorb moisture and through which vapor will not pass. After it snows, it is recommended that you check the roof to see where the snow has fallen. If you notice specific areas on the roof where the snow has melted, this may signal an area that needs to be insulated or where the insulation is damaged. When installing insulation in the attic, the best method is to install it from the eaves toward the center of the room so as to leave more headroom when you need to cut or fit the insulation properly. If, upon installing the insulation, you discover that you need an extra layer, you can simply lay blankets on top of the insulation already there. To reduce fire hazard, cover the panels with wallboard or use fiberglass panels if you must install panels between the rafters in a ceiling that slopes. Also,if you use cellulose insulation, which is the most common type of loose-fill insulation, be sure that it has been treated with a fire retardant.
Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
hildhood memories often include the recollection of mom tucking us in at night, wrapping us snugly in a nice, soft blanket to keep the winter chill away. A nice warm blanket just feels like love. And when you’re sick, that feeling of comfort and caring is even more vital.
By Pamela Palongue
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Darvina Emmerich would often find herself searching for blankets at the medical center for her husband James who was going through chemotherapy. The treatment always seemed to leave him chilled to the bone. Oftentimes when she found him one, there were other cancer patients nearby who were also freezing. Though James would pass away on Valentine’s Day 1997, Darvina wanted to do something to provide comfort to all cancer patients, even if just in a small way. In his memory, she founded Wrapped in Love, a non-profit organization which makes no-sew fleece tie blankets to give to cancer patients at no charge.
Besides just providing simple warmth to the chronically cold patients, the blankets symbolize the love and caring of individuals for their fellow human beings who are suffering. “We are feeding the human spirit,” says the Scott Township resident. “Cancer research is great, but I wanted to do something that would help the patients now at the present moment.” Her organization, which was launched in March of 2011, delivers free blankets to the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, a hospice center and St. Clair Hospital in Mt. Lebanon, Forbes Regional Hospital in Monroeville, Jefferson Memorial, Childrens Hospital and the newly opened Peters Township OutPatient Care Center. Grateful patients are amazed that someone who doesn’t even know them wants to reach out and provide comfort to them while they are going through a difficult time. The goal of Wrapped in Love is also to involve the entire community in making the blankets, which helps not only the cancer patients, but also the crafters of the blankets as well. Mt. Lebanon High School and Seton LaSalle High School are actively involved in making the blankets, as well as several ladies’ quilting groups. Her daughter Robin recently started a chapter in Austin, Texas. “The response has been tremendous. When people find out about what we do, they all want to help,” says Darvina, possibly because so many people’s lives have been touched by the disease. Greentree Printing has been making blankets for cancer patients and various charities one day each year for the past ten years. Last year at their 10th Annual Blanket Making Meeting on November 4, they donated all of their blankets to Wrapped in Love. “We were just so honored that they would do that for us,” says Emmerich. At this point, Wrapped in Love has been relying on community donations and the generous monetary donations of a few organizations such as the Women’s Guild of Upper St. Clair, the Airport Rotary Club and the Crafton Rotary Club. The 5th Annual Jeff Mabon Memorial Bike/Walk Event July 25 also benefitted the organization. Their gifts along with the combined efforts of many volunteers have made the work possible. Two sisters who volunteer have managed to crochet around 60 afghans to give to patients. “The blankets are made with love to comfort all cancer patients. We’re all children at heart,” says Emmerich. The blankets are a tangible expression of support and good will. If you are interested in volunteering either as an individual or as a group in making the blankets, please contact the organization at 412.983.7274 or visit their website at www.WrappedinLoveFoundation.com. No sewing skills are required. If you would like to make a donation to the work of the foundation, you may donate online or by mailing a check to: Wrapped in Love Foundation, PO Box 13486, Pittsburgh, PA 15243. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
ften times a trip to the dentist can be overwhelming and lead to avoidance of routine care. Approximately 30% of dental patients avoid dental care due to fear. Unfortunately, this can lead to a small problem growing into a larger problem, requiring even more treatment. So what is the fearful patient to do? It is best to avoid desperation being the driving force for finally receiving care. Fortunately there is a great option for patients who have put off dental care due to fear. Sedation Dentistry is a safe treatment method that allows many patients to receive the dental care they have been avoiding. Sedation Dentistry is a type of treatment where sedatives are given to the patient to induce relaxation so dental work can be comfortably completed. There are various types of dental sedation ranging from very light sedation to deep sedation (general anesthesia). These can be achieved using oral sedatives, muscular injection, inhalation, and intravenously (IV). 80% of patients can be comfortably and safely treated with mild
sedation. This is not true “sleep dentistry,” which is typically done in a hospital. For severely phobic patients, “sleep dentistry” may be the only option. With mild sedation, patients may be so relaxed that they drift to sleep during the dental treatment, but they are not being “put to sleep.” Even with mild sedation, it is important that the dental office monitor sedated patients throughout the entire procedure with state of the art equipment to ensure the safest possible treatment. This mild sedation can often be done with a combinational of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedative medication. With this technique, the majority of patients are so relaxed that they can comfortably undergo most dental procedures. The patient simply takes a pill the night before and another pill an hour prior to treatment while relaxing comfortably in the dental chair listening to music or watching television. Most patients are thrilled with how well the treatment goes and would gladly go through the procedure again.
Benefits: • very safe • fearful patients can get the care they need • elective cosmetic procedures can be comfortably done • more work can be completed in fewer visits • little to no memory of the procedure Often patients who have been neglecting treatment feel overwhelmed with where to start. The most important thing is to move toward a healthier smile. The first step is to schedule a consult with the sedation dentist to address your concerns and review your medical history and current medications. After this review, the dentist will recommend the necessary X-rays and do a complete examination to develop a treatment plan to prioritize and phase the treatment to suit the patient’s individual needs and achieve their desired result. Finally, the dentist will determine the level of sedation you will require to have the treatment comfortably completed. Sedation Dentistry can be a great and safe option for patients to achieve the beautiful and healthy smiles they deserve. By taking the process one step at a time the fears can be overcome and patients can finally reach optimum oral health.
Industry Insight
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
t Stephans, Kun & Co., P.C., with Jack Kun as your Certified Public Accountant, you can rest assured that you will receive top quality tax and business advisory services matched to your specific financial needs and personal situation. He takes the time to learn about your financial issues and has the experience and background to advise you so that you maximize your bottom line and your tax benefits. And t hat’s what you should expect when you use the services of a CPA. “I am the person working on your information and I do my best to learn everything about you and your business, inside and out,” Jack said. “I make it a point of understanding your unique situation and tailoring my expertise to benefit you the most. I don’t just add up a client’s checkbook and run it through QuickBooks. I act more as a chief financial officer for your company, spending the necessary time required to satisfy your company’s more complex needs.’” He has close to 30 years in practice as a CPA and also earned a graduate degree as a Master of Science in Taxation. He is a member of both the American and
Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants. Stephans, Kun & Co. has had an office in Bethel Park at 1226 Stoltz Road for almost a decade, but Jack spends much of his time at client offices providing direction in their financial affairs. “One of the things I attempt, especially with the electronic age, is to make myself available within 15 minutes of someone trying to get a hold of me. I try to always be available, always responsive,” Jack said. “I am also willing to dedicate as much time to a client as they feel is necessar y. I just spent three and a half hours with one of my clients, traveling with them to their attorney’s office, to be part of their business and estate planning process. I take a hands-on approach and do my best to pay close attention to, and anticipate, my clients’ needs.” Stephans, Kun & Co. provides all facets of accounting, income tax, and management advisory services that you would anticipate from a ful ly automated accounting firm. What they believe sets them apart from other firms is their commitment to provide a multitude of additional financial services and preserve their clients’ wealth and financial stability.
“When a client has accounting personnel in place for the day to day work, we can come in as CPA consultants. We’re not doing their bookkeeping, but taking their bookkeeping and doing business and tax planning with it. This way we are able to provide professional financial and advisory services at a competitive and realistic fee.” On a personal level, Jack was born and raised in the South Hills and has been a resident of Bethel Park for 20 years. His passion for his community is every bit as strong as his passion for his clients. “Both of my children went through the Bethel Park School District and I have supported the school programs they participated in over the years. I’ve been involved in the Bethel Park Soccer Association as both a coach and member of the board of directors,” Jack said. “I’ve also been active with the Bethel Park Music Boosters and am a member of their executive board. When your business is in the community you live in, you see how important it is to support the community around you through service.“ For more information on Stephans, Kun & Co., call 412.831.0500 to schedule a consultation.
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Most hearing loss is caused by damage to the sensory cells in your inner ear. This type of hearing loss is called sensorineural hearing loss, and it is usually permanent. The damage can occur due to aging, noise exposure, genetics, certain medications, disease, or other factors. In almost all cases, the only treatment is hearing amplification.1 (Hearing aids or instruments) Many people don’t realize they have hearing loss until it becomes fairly significant... but the people around them usually do. This is because hearing loss usually occurs gradually, and month to month changes aren’t perceptible. Friends and family often compensate for their loved one’s hearing loss by speaking louder, automatically repeating themselves, or not speaking up when they know they’ve been misheard. Though done out of love, it can prevent the person with hearing loss from seeking the necessary treatment. When you are turning up the TV too loud for others, have difficulty understanding in noise (especially women and children), people seem to mumble, or you have ringing in your ears- YOU SHOULD HAVE YOUR HEARING TESTED.
hearing loss has on one’s social and emotional life, it may come as a surprise to know that research study after study has linked untreated hearing loss with a decline in cognitive abilities.2 In fact, studies published recently in the Archives of Neurology show that hearing loss does contribute to memory loss, dramatically. For every 10 decibels of hearing loss, the risk of Alzheimer’s goes up 20%. “That is what all poets do: they talk to themselves out loud; and the world overhears them. But it’s horribly lonely not to hear when someone else talks.” George Bernard Shaw
“An untreated hearing loss is more noticeable than hearing aids.” Dr. Sergei Kochkin If you have hearing loss in both ears, you need to treat them both with hearing aids. Studies have shown that, when two hearing aids are worn compared to just one, the ability to tell where sounds are coming from and to recognize speech is significantly improved. In addition, people reported better sound quality, and better hearing in background noise while wearing two hearing aids versus only one.4 A potentially serious consequence of leaving one ear untreated, is that the ability to recognize speech may diminish in that ear. The brain may even permanently lose the ability to recognize speech if it is left deprived of sound for too long. The same holds true when neither ear is treated with amplification.2
“The best method for breaking through your loved one’s resistance to hearing help is for YOU to stop being their ears.” (Dr. Richard Carmen)
Do you feel that everyone around you mumbles when they talk? There is a very good explanation for this, and it has to do with your hearing loss. Speech consists of vowels and consonants. The vowel sounds are loud and deep in tone, while the consonants are very A man has two ears and one mouth that he may soft, high pitched sounds. Most people hear hear much and speak little. (German proverb). the vowels better than consonants, both because they’re louder sounds, and because hearing loss is often greater in the higher Find a local provider with a good reputation. pitches where the consonants are located. If Purchasing the latest technology is only part of you’re only hearing the vowels, words like, the solution. What comes next is even more “pick, bit, bid, pit, and pig” will all sound important. That includes having an expert who similar. Your brain uses extra energy to try to can properly program the hearing aids, adjust figure out what was said based on the context them as needed, and troubleshoot based on the of the conversation, and the speaker’s lip feedback that you provide. It is also the movement. You will find that you’re more provider’s job to counsel you regarding realistic worn out at the end of the day than you would expectations and the normal acclimation period be if you had hearing in the normal range. that occurs with new hearing aids.
There are so many reasons, I don’t know where to start! Besides being able to stay acclimated to the sounds of this world, communicate with your family, friends, doctors, etc., hearing aids have been shown to improve a person’s social, emotional, mental, and cognitive well-being.1 That means an improved quality of life. No more isolating yourself and losing touch in your relationships. While many understand the impact that
Swift Audiology is proud to have an A+ rating with the BBB and has been providing This is not true! People of all ages wear trusted care for over 25 years. hearing aids, from infants to older adults. Those between the ages of 55-64 make up the 1 Kochin, S. Better Hearing Institute, largest population of people with hearing loss,1 www.betterhearing.org 2 Arlinger, S. (2003). Negative consequences of uncorrected hearing loss- a review. and according to the NIDCD,3 almost 50% International Journal of Audiology, 42(Suppl 2:2S17-20). of people with hearing loss are adolescents or 3 National Institute on Deafness and Other younger adults. Keep this in mind… when Communication Disorders. 4 Kojbler, S. Rosenhall, U. & you misunderstand someone, or fail to laugh Hansson, H. (2001). Bilateral hearing aids- effects and consequences from a user perspective. Scandinavian at a joke you didn’t hear, or don’t answer Audiology, 30(4), 223-235. someone when they ask you a question; you are putting your hearing loss on display.
This article is written by Dr. Leslie Myers-Battisti on our staff. Leslie Dunst Debra Swift, B.C.-H.I.S. MS.-CCCA Original Founder/President Senior Audiologist 25 yr. +
Leslie Myers-Battisti AuD., Dr. of Audiology
Swift Audiology is proud to offer you the opportunity to try the “SMART” hearing instruments by Phonak. Take home a pair of the world’s most advanced, discreet, effective hearing technology ever developed, on a NO RISK-FREE trial! Call for your Free, no obligation Hearing Screening, to see if you’re a candidate. Contact us at 724.942.4700 or toll free 1.800.331.3277. This week only-must bring coupon. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
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It is Friday, 5:30 p.m. and Amy slips me something cold to drink at Dave DeLallo’s place. My week has been filled with, “My 401k is down $63,000,” “the deficits of our country are killing the markets,” “bank CDs at .75% are a joke,” “Social Security, Medicare and the post service are crashing,” “my house will probably never sell,” etc., etc. I think of my favorite business associate who reminds me that when thin gs seem the worst, it is time to get in the markets. I begin writing! It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the constant stream of negative news about the state of our country and the world. This feeling also makes it difficult to be confident as an investor. At times like these, a little perspective might be in order. A good place to start is to remember that smart investing is not dependent on today’s headl ines, but about building wealth over a long period of time. With that in mind, here are five important reasons you should feel encouraged about your long term investments:
bull market cycle, investors should always expect the stock market to fluctuate along the way. Though the economy is not exactly growing at a sizzling pace, U.S. companies represented in the S&P 500 Index had the potential to generate record profits in 2011. Many firms have found ways to generate products and services in a more productive and cost-efficient fashion, which positions them for additional growth during more prospero us periods. An estimated 75 million children of baby boomer parents are now coming of age. They were born between 1979 and 1995 and are already a part of (or will soon be entering) the professional world. As they begin receiving incomes, they will begin buying homes, cars, and other essential (and non-essential) items. They make up the next great consumer class in Ame rica.
Free markets are more widespread than ever before. Many of us grew up in a time when the U.S. and only a few other countries were capitalist centers. Now it is prevalent in places we wouldn’t have dreamed of a generation ago – including China, Russia, and most of Eastern Europe. This trend is creating burgeoning global middle The stock market (as measured by the S&P class, and real consumers are 500 – an unmanaged index of stocks and a emerg ing by the millions in many benchmark measurement of the broad stock market) has regained much of the ground it lost new markets, some with extremely large populations. This creates huge between 2007 and 2009. In the 12 months business opportunities for ending June 30, 2011, the index generated a companies that are well positioned total return of more than 30%. Yet halfway to capitalize on them. Growth is through 2011, the index stood 15% below its alive and well in many of these newly peak reached nearly four years ago. developing free markets as well as in Historically, the stock market trend has been growth – and there seems to be plenty of room established markets across the world. for more of that. But even in light of the current
Investing in stocks means believing in the potential of businesses for years to come. Although pessimists in the current market call these “unprecedented times,” the same assumption was incorrectly made at other times throughout history. After a rough decade for stocks in the 1970s, one magazine ran a cover story on “the death of equities” that was followed by two decades of record returns for stocks. In the midst of the Great Depression, many questioned whether capital ism was still viable, but in the decades to follow America merged as the world’s strongest economic power. There will always be doomsday pessimists. But while problems exist, our history shows countless examples of companies that uncovered innovative solutions to problems confronting consumers, businesses and society that allowed these firms to thrive. That process leads to new jobs, more economic prosper ity and better returns for investors. As an investor, consider whether the current market challenges are a roadblock that will prevent investment success, or the foundation of new opportunities for future profits. If history is any guide, investors who can afford to ride through short-term market swings will have the potential to realize future profitability.
This Industry Insight was written by Dan Martin, Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial (formerly American Express Financial Advisors). Contact my office in Bethel Park at 412.831.6240 extension 208 or by email: daniel.e.martin@ampf.com. I am licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of PA, OH, WV, FL, IL, NJ, SC, TX, VA. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500® Index), an unmanaged index of common stocks, is frequently used as a general measure of market performance. The index reflects reinvestment of all distributions and changes in market prices, but excludes brokerage commissions or other fees. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The views expressed here reflect the views of Ameriprise Financial as of 7/11. These views may change as market or other conditions change. Actual investments or investment decisions made by Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, whether for its own account or on behalf of clients, will not necessarily reflect the views expressed. This information is not intended to provide investment advice and does not account for individual investor circumstances. Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. © 2011 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
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roviding care to those who cannot care for themselves is vital to our community. It’s rewarding; it’s challenging; it’s time-consuming; it’s exhilarating; and it’s not for everyone. But for many, it’s a great way to help those who need services that can’t otherwise receive them – and, for better or worse, there is no shortage of work. At Step By Step, Inc., we know all about these opportunities and challenges.
Step By Step is a community based human service organization that provides services to adults and children with disabilities in 15 counties throughout Pennsylvania – including Allegheny and Washington. We provide residential services (group homes), in-home supports, supported employment, employment readiness training, as well as outpatient treatment services. The children, adolescents, adults and older adults we serve have significant challenges to overcome. Our mission is to enhance their quality of life and personal growth through support for individual choice and independence. We exist to carry out this mission by helping the people we serve in overcoming challenges. This, of course, is no small task. It is important work, challenging work, and, yes, rewarding work. One of the biggest challenges we face, as an organization, beyond trying to survive what seem like annual funding cuts, is maintaining our direct care workforce. We work hard to recruit and retain qualified professionals and to treat our staff with respect and dignity and to allow them to flourish and seek opportunities for advancement once they are employed with us. Whether it’s through educational training opportunities; participation in several local, state or national organizations; or even making decisions that better our agency structure, staff here are encouraged to take part in shaping the future of Step By Step. Like our colleagues in long-term care, there is, however, a care crisis looming. There are simply not enough people choosing to do the work needed to carry out the missions of our organizations. The solution seems clear enough…pay them more. Funding cuts, on top of already limited funding, makes it next to impossible to increase wages to more desirable levels. Even so, there are many employees who have been with Step By Step for years thanks to the satisfying work, the great camaraderie of our team members and a pleasant working environment. Many great opportunities are available here in western Pennsylvania and in our other regions, too, to work with great people in a great atmosphere. And, our benefit and continuing education programs are substantial – offering many ways to satisfy staff members of all ages. I encourage readers of this column to call me directly at 412.655.8677 so that I can help answer questions you may have about our services and employment opportunities. Hope to hear from you soon.
This Industry Insight was written by Denise Cavenaugh. Denise has been the Vice President of Western Operations for Step By Step, Inc. since July 2004. She has over 18 years of experience working with community based human services organizations.
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
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Ann Allsopp OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.135 FAX 412.885.1461 CELL 412.979.5056 EMAIL aallsopp@northwood.com
Karena Allsopp OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.183 FAX 412.885.1461 CELL 412.916.3307 EMAIL kallsopp@northwood.com
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling the home you have lived in for the past thirty years, we are experienced and motivated professional Realtors® prepared to navigate you through the challenging real estate market. • Multi Million Dollar Producers • Pittsburgh Magazine Five Star Real Estate Award Winners • Sales and Listing Leaders
Date: Where: Time:
May 5, 2012 Library Fire Hall Doors open from 6:30 p.m. until after the last drawing (Cash drawings start at 7 p.m. with the last drawing at 11 p.m.) Price: $25 per person/ticket. Price includes food (buffet), soft drinks, & beer; Dinner to be served @7:30 pm. Guests are also welcome to BYOBottle. Night at the Races - 10 Races/Buy Horse $10 win $50/Win-Win-Win Cash Bash - $300 will be given away every 20 minutes; winner need not be present to win
Final drawing (at 11 p.m.) will be in the amount of $2,000, if present a bonus of $1 per ticket sold will be awarded. Must be 21 years of age to purchase tickets. It will be a great night for all; invite your neighbors, friends, and family. Proceeds of this event will be used to help operate the facilities at the BP softball fields, including replacing old fencing and concession upgrades. To order tickets, you can send an email to board@bpgsa.org. 52
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s the school year comes to a close, it is only natural for kids to look forward to the leisurely nature of the summer season. The arrival of beach trips, pool parties and sleepovers, however, doesn't mean that children should depart completely from their daily routine. Keeping particular elements of a child's day consistent throughout the summer months keeps the brain focused and helps prevent learning losses during the summer. In addition, this can potentially ease the anxiety that often accompanies transitioning into a new classroom or school come fall. According to research conducted by the National Center for Summer Learning, which is based at the Johns Hopkins School of Education in Baltimore, Maryland, summer learning loss accounts for about twothirds of the difference in the likelihood of a student pursuing a college preparatory path in high school. As these findings indicate, keeping children's brains challenged throughout the summer is crucial, since the lack of learning that occurs during these months has both short-term and long-term consequences. And, brain growth is 90% complete by age 10 in most children. Keeping your child challenged in these early years can make a difference in the rest of his/her lives. Routine provides structure, which is often lacking during the summer months when children all too quickly become detached from the lessons they learned throughout the school year. Maintaining a schedule throughout the summer supports an environment that is less of a contrast to the classroom and provides a healthy balance between building skills, play and rest. Families can inc orporate the following habits into their child’s day to encourage and maintain a routine throughout the summer season:
with their new summer schedules. The purpose is not to create rigidity but to provide a flexible structure that establishes a sense of purpose kids need to grow and mature. Finding a preschool/early childhood center that runs their program year round can be very beneficial in this regard. The very best early childhood centers also offer school readiness programs for elementary school students. If you are looking for such programs, make sure they are facilitated by degreed teachers as well as tailor ed to meet the specific needs of your child, whether it be concentrating on advanced or remedial material. It also can be helpful that the academic program/curriculum is intertwined throughout the center’s program, so the children readily accept the “summer challenge.” This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo. Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 825 East McMurray Rd. in Peters Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/K programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464.
• Early to bed, early to rise: To the best extent possible, children should adhere to a regular bedtime each night and wake up at the same time each day. This will not only ensure proper rest but will establish a sense of discipline as well. • Clean up and get dressed: Upon waking up, it i s important that children brush their teeth, get dressed and perform any other hygienic tasks that they normally would before a school day. Allowing kids to stay in pajamas or dirty clothes longer than necessary can result in lazy behavior. • Make eating an event: Keeping a child on a consistent meal schedule is critical to maintaining a sharp body and mind. Establish specific times for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sit with children at the table to encourage conversation while eating. • Take a rest: If a child partakes in a scheduled nap time while at school, then he or she should be allotted time at home for regular rest as well. Make this time consistent, perhaps after lunch, and have the child rest in the same place every day. • Perform daily chores: Asking a child to help around the house is an ideal way to get them involved in a daily routine. A morning chore and an afternoon chore can convey a sense of responsibility and supply a sense of rhythm to the day. In addition to providing consistency, routines can present children with security and comfort as they adjust to the changes that come along Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
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The Rotary Club of Upper St Clair-Bethel Park (Breakfast) started off the new year with a new home – Kings Family Restaurant on McMurray Road. “We have enjoyed a 20-percent growth in our membership in the past 6 months and show no signs of stopping. In most respects this is good, but the sudden growth had caused parking and overcrowding issues at our previous location,” said President Brian Schill. “Kings store manager, Carla Newbegin, has been very accommodating in every aspect.” Hartley King, Founder, President and CEO served as the inaugural speaker. Other speakers for the month include George Matta from The Rivers Casino, Jake Sullivan from the Pittsburgh Power and Vince Gastgeb from Allegheny County Council. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 7 – 8 a.m. The Rotary Club of Upper St Clair-Bethel Park is one of three area Rotary clubs in Upper St Clair and Bethel Park. The clubs are part of Rotary International, which has 1.2 million members worldwide who remain dedicated to volunteer community service, promoting high ethical standards in all vocations and furthering international peace. In addition to thousands of volunteer hours, each year Rotary contributes millions of dollars in humanitarian aid and relief around the globe, funds 1,200 international scholarships and provides cross-cultural exchanges for
Club president Brian Schill (center) presents meeting plaque to store manager, Carla Newbegin and Kings President/CEO, Hartley King.
7,000 young leaders. Through its flagship program PolioPlus, Rotary has contributed more than $600 million to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. If anyone would like information regarding Rotary, please contact Brian at 412.833.6229, BLSchill@aol.com or check out their web site at www.clubrunner.ca/upperstclair. Bethel Park | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
B USINESS D IRECTORY
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B USINESS D IRECTORY
Bethel Park Lions Club Plans Fundraisers for Charity Join the Bethel Park Lions for their 41st Annual Prize Dinner Party on Saturday, March 10, at 6 p.m. at the Bethel Park Community Center. Grand prize is $1,000 with 20 cash prizes for ticket holders. Prize Party Dinner Tickets with dinner/bar included are $50. Guest tickets for dinner/bar only (no prize party tickets) are $35. Contact Bob at 412.303.9762. All proceeds benefit Bethel Park Lions Charities. Also, look for the Lions at the Walmart on 88 and South Park Shops from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., for White Cane Day, a sight conservation day to help the blind. To become a member of a Lions Club, you must be of legal majority, of good moral character and have a good reputation in the community; be recommended by a current Lion; be willing to attend meetings regularly and agree to help at fundraisers when possible. If you are interested in SERVING your community then LIONS is your club. For more information, send your name, address and phone number by email to nodk@verizon.net and a Lion will contact you. Our Club meets on the first and third Tuesdays at 6:45 p.m. The meeting place October – May is at Delallo’s Restaurant on Fort Couch Rd. and June – September is at our Lions’ Park located on Irishtown Road.
603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com
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